Packaging product, packaging group comprising at least two packaging products, method for manufacturing such packaging products

Abstract

The packaged product (1) includes a container (2) and packaging (10). The container (2) includes: - a container body (2.0) defining a cavity (6), - food components (4) in the cavity (6), and - a diaphragm (9) that closes the cavity (6). The packaging (10) includes: - a protective sheet (12) covering the container body (2.0), and - a closing sheet (14) covering a portion of the diaphragm (9) and the protective sheet (12) to enclose the container (2) between the protective sheet (12) and the closing sheet (14). The closing sheet (14) and the protective sheet (12) are attached along a sheet attachment section (20) extending around the diaphragm (9). A weakening line (22) extends around the diaphragm (9) to allow a cap (24) to separate from the closing sheet (14) under manual force (F) for retrieving the container (2).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a packaging product comprising a container for food components and packaging surrounding the container. The invention also relates to a packaging assembly comprising multiple such packaging products. Furthermore, the invention relates to a method for manufacturing such packaging products. Background Technology

[0002] In the packaging industry, a measured amount of food components (such as ground coffee) is typically encased in a container (e.g., a coffee capsule) made of packaging that is substantially impermeable to oxygen, water vapor, and / or ultraviolet light in order to maintain the quality of the food components. Such containers are typically made of plastic or plastic laminates.

[0003] When placed in a food or beverage preparation machine during the preparation process, this dose of food components can interact with water to prepare a food product, such as a beverage (e.g., coffee or tea). After processing the food components, the resulting food product (e.g., beverage) can be dispensed from the packaged product and dispensed into a cup from which a user can ingest the food or beverage.

[0004] Once a packaged product has been used to prepare a food product, such as a beverage (like coffee), the used packaged product must be disposed of together with the food components that adhered to the packaged product.

[0005] However, used packaging products (such as used coffee capsules) cannot be easily recycled or composted because the impermeable containers are not made of recyclable, biodegradable, and / or compostable materials. Therefore, a certain amount of waste may be generated. However, efforts are generally made to reduce waste and increase the disposability, compostability, and / or recyclability of used packaging products. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide a packaging product comprising a container and packaging:

[0007] The container includes:

[0008] - Container body, which defines a cavity and an opening in the cavity.

[0009] - A certain dose of food components contained within the cavity, the dose of food components being adapted to interact with a fluid introduced into the cavity in order to prepare a food product, and

[0010] - A diaphragm, which is attached to the container body to seal the cavity.

[0011] The packaging includes:

[0012] - A protective sheet, arranged to cover the outer surface of the container body; and

[0013] - A sealing sheet, arranged to cover at least a portion of the diaphragm and the protective sheet, such that the container is surrounded between the protective sheet and the sealing sheet.

[0014] The sealing sheet and the protective sheet are attached to each other along the sheet attachment section, which extends around the diaphragm, and

[0015] The closure sheet has a weakening line extending near or around a portion or all of the diaphragm, the weakening line being configured such that it allows the cap portion to separate at least partially from the remainder of the closure sheet under the action of a hand force applied to the protective sheet to press the container against the closure sheet, such that the weakening line is partially or completely torn and defines a retrieval opening in the closure sheet for removing the container from the protective sheet.

[0016] Because the protective sheet covers and protects the container during the storage of the packaged product, the container can be made of a material that is not completely impermeable to oxygen and moisture. This is especially true when the container is sealed shut between the airtight and water vapor-impermeable sealing sheet and the protective sheet.

[0017] Therefore, the container can be made from a variety of materials, particularly biodegradable and / or compostable materials, such as cellulose-based materials, which reduces the amount of waste that is not easily recycled. Furthermore, the amount of material required to manufacture this packaged product can be reduced, as no additional box is needed to protect all packaged products.

[0018] In addition, the user can easily disassemble the container by pushing the container through the protective sheet to tear the weakening line, thus creating the opening for removal from the packaging.

[0019] Specifically, the container body may have an inner side defining the cavity and an outer side extending opposite to the cavity, and the protective sheet is arranged to cover the outer side of the container body.

[0020] Preferably, the protective sheet and the container body are tightly sealed to each other along the attachment section of the body. Specifically, the protective sheet can be arranged to tightly cover the outer surface of the container body. Therefore, even during the manufacture of the packaged product, air and steam cannot enter between the protective sheet and the container body.

[0021] The diaphragm can be directly attached (preferably sealed) to the container body, preferably to the flange, for example by thermal welding, laser welding, pressure welding, friction welding, adhesive welding or ultrasonic welding and / or any combination thereof.

[0022] Preferably, the sealing sheet can be directly fastened to the container body, for example, by thermal welding, laser welding, adhesive welding, pressure welding, friction welding, adhesive welding, or ultrasonic welding and / or any combination thereof. Preferably, the protective sheet can be thermoformed onto the container body.

[0023] Preferably, the sealing sheet and the protective sheet are sealed to each other along the attachment section of the sheets. Therefore, air and vapor cannot enter between the protective sheet and the container body.

[0024] In some implementations, the weakening line may extend along part or all of the sheet attachment section.

[0025] In some specific implementations, the weakening line can be configured such that the applied manual force is less than 50 N, preferably less than 20 N, and more preferably less than 10 N. This manual force can be oriented substantially from the outer surface of the protective sheet toward the diaphragm.

[0026] In some specific embodiments, the container body may have a substantially rotationally symmetrical shape, such as a truncated cone shape, and wherein, preferably, the opening has a substantially circular perimeter. Similarly, the diaphragm may have a substantially rotationally symmetrical shape, such as a circular shape.

[0027] Therefore, containers with rounded corners are generally easier to manufacture and package, while providing relatively lightweight containers, thus reducing the amount of material that needs to be biodegraded, composted, recycled, or disposed of.

[0028] In this disclosure, the term "container" can be understood to refer to any container that specifies a dose of food components, such as a rigid capsule, tin, or semi-rigid container. The container can be symmetrical or asymmetrical, truncated conical, spherical, etc. Such doses of food components are suitable for preparing one beverage (single serving), two or more beverages.

[0029] The food component can be a beverage component selected from the following list: roasted and ground coffee, soluble ingredients (such as milk base, chocolate, soup, infusion or herbal tea ingredients), and nutrient-soluble compositions, and more generally any liquid edible composition intended for human or animal consumption, and / or mixtures thereof.

[0030] During the preparation of food products, the food components can be made to interact with a fluid (such as water or milk) injected into the container by the preparation machine to produce ingestible substances such as coffee, tea, milk, cream, soup, fruit puree, medicine, etc.

[0031] In some implementations, the body attachment section and the sheet attachment section may be joined together or formed as a whole. Conversely, the body attachment section and the sheet attachment section may be separated from each other.

[0032] According to one embodiment, the weakening line may extend around a portion or all of the sheet attachment section, preferably along a portion or all of the sheet attachment section, to define a retrieval opening in the closed sheet for allowing the container to be removed from the protective sheet.

[0033] In some implementations, the weakening line may extend over a portion of the closure sheet facing the diaphragm and may take any suitable geometry within the closure sheet that defines an access opening to allow retrieval of the container from the protective sheet. The weakening line may be, for example, in the form of a cross.

[0034] Therefore, the user can easily disassemble the container and remove it from the protective sheet through the access opening.

[0035] According to one embodiment, the weakening line may be made of a perforation line, a scribing line, or a combination thereof, and the weakening line is preferably formed mechanically or by laser.

[0036] Therefore, the weakening line can be easily manufactured and can provide consistent mechanical resistance across a range of packaged products.

[0037] The notch line may extend only partially through the closed sheet, which maintains a certain tightness across the closed sheet. The perforation line may extend all the way through the closed sheet, which makes it very easy for the user to tear the weakening line.

[0038] The weakening line can be made before or after the attachment or sealing of the closed sheet.

[0039] In some embodiments, the container body may include a flange extending around the opening, the flange being substantially annular in shape, preferably planar annular in shape, the diaphragm extending along the flange, and the protective sheet preferably extending around the flange.

[0040] Therefore, the flange can provide support for the diaphragm on the container body.

[0041] The flange is preferably integral with the container body, more preferably integral. Alternatively, the protective sheet may extend on and around the flange. In some embodiments, the flange may be substantially annular in shape, such as a circular ring.

[0042] According to one implementation, the protective sheet is thermoformed to be assembled onto the container body.

[0043] - The protective sheet is formed directly onto the container body, or

[0044] The protective sheet is first formed on a mold that is substantially similar in shape to the container body, and then the protective sheet is attached to the container body.

[0045] The maximum gap between the container body and the protective sheet is preferably less than 3 mm, preferably less than 1 mm, more preferably less than 0.25 mm, and even more preferably 0 mm. The protective sheet is preferably thermoformed on the container body.

[0046] Because of the small gaps, there may be no air or very little air in the packaging, which helps maintain the quality of the food components, such as aroma, and extends the shelf life of the packaged product.

[0047] As an alternative to thermoforming, blow molding or vacuum forming can also be used to assemble the protective sheet onto the container body.

[0048] According to one implementation, the container body may include:

[0049] -Fiber-based materials or their derivatives or byproducts, wherein the fiber-based materials are selected from the group consisting of: flax, bamboo, sisal, kenaf, miscanthus, nettle, and wood derivatives (MFC, NFC, CNC).

[0050] - A cellulose-based material, selected from the group consisting of paper, wood, and bamboo, wherein the bamboo is in the form of paper, paperboard, or molded pulp components.

[0051] - Biopolymers selected from the group consisting of PLA, PBAT, PCL, PBS, PBSL, PBSA, PBST, PGA, PHA, and / or present in the form of films (molded, formed) or injection-molded parts.

[0052] - Any combination of them.

[0053] According to one embodiment, the sheet attachment section can be formed by thermal welding, laser welding, adhesive welding, pressure welding, friction welding, ultrasonic welding and / or any combination thereof.

[0054] Therefore, this welding provides a virtually impermeable seal, which prevents delamination of the corresponding attachments due to pressure differentials, as well as the ingress of dust, moisture and / or air, thereby extending the shelf life of the packaged product.

[0055] According to one embodiment, the container body may further include a flange extending around the opening, to which the diaphragm is attached to close the cavity.

[0056] Therefore, the diaphragm can be easily attached to the container body.

[0057] In some implementations, the body attachment section and the sheet attachment section may extend around the same plane that is substantially parallel to the opening.

[0058] - The main body attachment section is preferably integral with the sheet attachment section, for example, it is a single piece, or

[0059] - The maximum distance between the flange and the sheet attachment section can preferably be between 1 mm and 20 mm.

[0060] Therefore, since the body attachment section and the sheet attachment section can extend at essentially the same level, the packaging product can be relatively compact, which reduces the amount of material that needs to be biodegraded, composted, recycled, or disposed of.

[0061] Due to the maximum distance, the seal is strong enough to prevent the removal of one container from opening an adjacent container.

[0062] In some implementations, the closure sheet may be substantially flat. Specifically, the closure sheet may extend near the opening.

[0063] In some specific implementations, the maximum size of the diaphragm portion (e.g., its diameter) ranges from 15 mm to 150 mm, preferably from 10 mm to 100 mm, and more preferably from 12 mm to 70 mm.

[0064] According to one embodiment, at least one of the protective sheet and the sealing sheet (preferably each) can have a density of less than 1 cm at 23°C and 50% relative humidity. 3 / m 2 Oxygen permeability per day / bar [cubic centimeters / square meters / day / bar] and less than 1g / m 2 Water vapor transmission rate of / day / bar [grams / square meter / day / bar].

[0065] Therefore, the protective sheet and / or the sealing sheet can form a reliable barrier against oxygen and moisture, which helps maintain the quality of the food components, such as aroma, and extends the shelf life of the packaged product.

[0066] According to one embodiment, at least one of the protective sheet and the sealing sheet has an average thickness between 0.1 mm and 10 mm, and the sealing sheet may be planar.

[0067] Therefore, the protective sheet and / or the sealing sheet can form a reliable barrier against oxygen and moisture, which helps maintain the quality of the food components, such as aroma, and extends the shelf life of the packaged product.

[0068] According to one embodiment, at least one of the protective sheet and the sealing sheet may be made of a material selected from the group consisting of:

[0069] - Biodegradable or compostable materials, including:

[0070] ○ A biopolymer-based material having one or more layers, the biopolymer-based material being selected from the group consisting of: poly(butylene adipate-co-butylene terephthalate) (PBAT), poly(butylene succinate-co-butylene adipate) (PBSA), poly(butylene succinate-co-lactide) (PBSL), poly(butylene succinate-co-butylene terephthalate) (PBST), poly(butylene succinate) (PBS), lactic acid polymer (PLA), polycaprolactone (PCL), polyesteramine (PEA), polyglycolic acid (PGA), poly(methylene adipate-co-methylene terephthalate) (PTMAT), polyvinyl alcohol, polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA), or mixtures thereof; and / or

[0071] ○ A fiber-based material having one or more layers, the fiber-based material being selected from the group consisting of: cellulose, paper, pulp, wood, wood derivatives (MFC, NFC and CNC), bamboo, flax, sisal, kenaf, miscanthus and nettle and any combination thereof, the fiber-based material having been or not subjected to chemical pretreatment;

[0072] The biodegradable or compostable material is provided with at least one barrier layer, which is preferably selected from the group consisting of: ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH), poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVOH), butene glycol-vinyl alcohol copolymer (BVOH), polyglycolic acid (PGA), and preferably a metallization layer made of aluminum, and any combination thereof;

[0073] - Recyclable materials, including: polymer-based materials selected from the group consisting of: polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyamide (PA), and polyethylene furanate (PEF);

[0074] Preferably, the recyclable material is provided with at least one barrier layer, which is preferably selected from the group consisting of: ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH), poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVOH), butene glycol-vinyl alcohol copolymer (BVOH), polyglycolic acid (PGA), and preferably a metallization layer made of aluminum.

[0075] - Any combination of them.

[0076] Therefore, the container body, the diaphragm, and the food components can be biodegradable, compostable, or recyclable, and the packaging protects the food product from air and moisture, thus maintaining the quality of the food product and extending the shelf life of the packaged product.

[0077] At least one or each of the protective sheet and the sealing sheet may be made of at least two layers. Furthermore, the container body may be partially or completely biodegradable and / or compostable.

[0078] The fiber-based material can increase the mechanical resistance of the enclosed sheet and / or the protective sheet. The biopolymer-based material can be realized as a laminate, film, injection-molded part, or dispersion coating.

[0079] The barrier layer, or each barrier layer, helps to stop or minimize the permeation of oxygen (OTR) and / or water vapor (WVTR). The barrier layer, or each barrier layer, can be applied by thermoforming, dipping, or spraying.

[0080] Some of the materials listed above can provide the following technical effects:

[0081] Polyethylene (PE) is a very common plastic available in the packaging industry; PE provides good sealing properties.

[0082] Polypropylene (PP) is a thermoplastic polymer that can be processed by extrusion and molding, with injection molding being a common molding technique. PP is recyclable.

[0083] Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) provides relatively good gas and moisture barrier properties. PET is recyclable.

[0084] Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) are biodegradable polyesters. They can be thermoplastic, with melting points ranging from 40°C to 180°C. In industrial production, PHAs are produced through microbial fermentation of sugars or glucose and are extracted and purified from bacteria. PHAs can be processed into films and hollow bodies primarily via injection molding, extrusion, and bubble extrusion.

[0085] One of the simplest and most common forms of PHA is polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB). Therefore, PHB is a bio-derived and biodegradable plastic. PHB is non-toxic and biocompatible, and suitable for medical applications. Furthermore, PHB is a relatively good oxygen barrier. In addition, PHB provides a dimensionally stable body because it is biodegradable and compostable.

[0086] Polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) is a thermoplastic polyester that is typically (semi-)crystalline and solvent-resistant. PBT has very little shrinkage during molding and has high mechanical strength and heat resistance up to about 150°C.

[0087] Polylactic acid (PLA) or polylactide (PLA) can be obtained from renewable resources such as corn starch or sugarcane. PLA can be used as a single enantiomer polymer (i.e., as poly-L-lactide (PLLA) or poly-D-lactide (PDLA)) or as a mixture of both enantiomers. PLA can be processed by extrusion, injection molding, film and sheet casting, and spinning. PLA can be recycled into monomers by pyrolysis or hydrolysis. When purified, the monomers can be used to manufacture virgin PLA without loss of original properties.

[0088] Polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH) is a water-soluble synthetic polymer with excellent film-forming, emulsifying, and high tensile strength and adhesive properties. PVOH exhibits high flexibility as well as high oxygen and aroma barrier properties. PVOH is preferably used in combination with suitable stabilizers (such as PET film) and can be crosslinked for stable moisture protection.

[0089] Ethylene-vinyl alcohol (EVOH) is commonly used in food applications. Its primary purpose is to provide barrier properties, mainly as an oxygen barrier to improve the shelf life of food packaging and as a hydrocarbon barrier. EVOH is typically co-extruded or laminated as a thin layer between cardboard, foil, or other plastics.

[0090] Polyglycolic acid (PGA) is a biodegradable thermoplastic polymer. PGA can also be a tough, fiber-forming polymer. PGA exhibits relatively high hydrolytic stability, allowing its use in rigid packaging applications without direct contact with food. PGA can be sufficiently stabilized for use as a barrier material in food packaging by combining, blending, or laminating PGA films or resins with PET, PLA, or PHB.

[0091] In some specific implementations, mineral fillers (such as talc or calcium carbonate) may be added to the protective sheet and / or the sealing sheet.

[0092] In some implementations, the container body may be made of at least two layers, each made of the materials listed herein.

[0093] Another object of the present invention is to provide a packaging assembly comprising a plurality of packaging products, each packaging product being arranged in a row or grid according to any of the foregoing objects, embodiments or specific implementations, wherein some or all of the plurality of packaging products are arranged in a row or grid, and wherein the protective sheet of the plurality of packaging products forms a first integral sheet, and wherein the closing sheet of the plurality of packaging products forms a second integral sheet.

[0094] Because the packaging is joined by a protective sheet and a closing sheet, the protective sheet on one side and the closing sheet on the other side form a continuous whole surrounding all the packaged products. In other words, the packaged products share a common protective sheet and a common closing sheet. Therefore, several packaged products can be easily handled and transported. Furthermore, the larger common protective and closing sheets are easier to recycle compared to the foil sheets of individual parts.

[0095] Therefore, the packaging product can form regular patterns, which helps users count the containers remaining in the packaging group.

[0096] According to one implementation, the packaging assembly may include:

[0097] - The first subgroup of packaged products, which is arranged at least in the first row or the first grid, and

[0098] - A second subgroup of packaged products, which is arranged in at least a second row or a second grid.

[0099] In the assembled state, the packaged product of the first subgroup and the packaged product of the second subgroup are fully or partially engaged, such that:

[0100] i) Several packaged products of the first subgroup extend entirely or partially into the gaps between two consecutive packaged products of the second subgroup, and

[0101] ii) Several packaged products of the second subgroup extend entirely or partially in the gaps between consecutive packaged products of the first subgroup.

[0102] Therefore, the packaging unit can provide a compact arrangement of the packaged product, which in turn reduces the storage space of the packaged product or, depending on the situation, reduces the size of the auxiliary cover.

[0103] Since the packaged product of the first subgroup is fully engaged with the packaged product of the second subgroup, there may be complete overlap in the height dimension of the packaged products (e.g., capsules) of the first and second subgroups, in which case the packaged group can be more compact in the height dimension.

[0104] Since the packaged product of the first subgroup only partially engages with the packaged product of the second subgroup, there may be partial overlap in the height dimension of the packaged products (e.g., capsules) of the first and second subgroups. In this case, the package group should not be too compact in the height dimension, but the package group may be more compact in the width and / or length dimensions depending on the shape of each packaged product.

[0105] Another object of the present invention is to provide a method for manufacturing packaged products, the method comprising:

[0106] - A container is provided, the container including a container body defining a cavity and an opening of the cavity.

[0107] - A specific dose of food component is introduced into the cavity, the dose of which is suitable for interacting with the fluid introduced into the cavity, in order to prepare a food product.

[0108] - Packaging is formed in the following ways:

[0109] • Arrange the protective sheet to cover the container body but not the opening, and

[0110] • The closing sheet is arranged to cover at least a portion of the opening and the protective sheet, such that the container is surrounded between the protective sheet and the closing sheet.

[0111] • Attach the protective sheet to the sealing sheet along the sheet attachment section, the sheet attachment section extending around the diaphragm, and

[0112] - A weakening line is provided for the closure sheet, which extends around a portion or all of the diaphragm, preferably along a portion or all of the sheet attachment section, such that the closure sheet defines a cover portion, and the weakening line is configured to allow the cover portion to be at least partially separated from the remainder of the closure sheet in order to define a retrieval opening in the closure sheet for removing the container from the protective sheet.

[0113] The operations of providing the container body, introducing a certain dose of food components, and forming the packaging can be performed in various sequences. These operations can be continuous, or some intermediate operations can be performed in between.

[0114] In some implementations, the protective sheet is arranged to tightly cover the outer surface of the container body.

[0115] In some embodiments, the protective sheet may be thermoformed around the outer surface of the container body. Alternatively, the method may also include preforming the protective sheet into a shape corresponding to the outer surface of the container body.

[0116] According to one embodiment, the arrangement of the protective sheet may include assembling the protective sheet onto the container body by performing one of thermoforming, blow molding, or vacuum forming:

[0117] - The protective sheet is formed directly on the container body, or

[0118] - First, the protective sheet is formed on a mold that is substantially similar in shape to the container body, and then the protective sheet is attached to the container body.

[0119] The maximum gap between the container body and the protective sheet is preferably less than 3 mm, preferably less than 1 mm, more preferably less than 0.25 mm, and even more preferably 0 mm. The protective sheet is preferably thermoformed on the container body.

[0120] When the protective sheet is formed directly onto the container body (online technology), this method requires fewer operations to manufacture the packaged product.

[0121] When the protective sheet is first formed on the container body and then attached to the container body (offline technology), some methodological operations can be more easily performed for manufacturing the packaged product.

[0122] The words “including,” “include,” “have,” and their derivatives will be interpreted as inclusive rather than exclusive. The term “and / or” used in the context of “X and / or Y” should be interpreted as “X” or “Y” or “X and Y.” Attached Figure Description

[0123] Further features, details, and advantages of the invention are described below, particularly with respect to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate some aspects, embodiments, and specific implementations of the foregoing aspects, embodiments, and specific implementations of the invention, and wherein:

[0124] Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of a packaged product according to one embodiment is shown;

[0125] Figure 2 It shows the manufacturing process. Figure 1 A flowchart of a method for packaging products;

[0126] Figure 3 It shows the relationship with Figure 1 A similar view of a packaged product in the stage where a user applies force to remove the container from the packaging;

[0127] Figure 4 It shows Figure 3 The packaging products and Figure 1 A similar view shows the packaged product in the stage of removing the container from the packaging;

[0128] Figure 5A , Figure 5B and Figure 5C A schematic cross-sectional view of a packaging assembly according to another embodiment is shown, which is in the three stages of a manufacturing method according to one embodiment;

[0129] Figure 6A , Figure 6B and Figure 6C A packaging assembly according to another embodiment is shown. Figure 5A , Figure 5B , Figure 5C Similar views;

[0130] Figure 7A , Figure 7B and Figure 7C The packaging assembly according to yet another embodiment is shown. Figure 5A , Figure 5B , Figure 5C Similar views;

[0131] Figures 8A, 8B, and 8C illustrate the packaging assembly according to yet another embodiment. Figure 5A , Figure 5B , Figure 5C Similar views;

[0132] Figure 9 A schematic cross-sectional view of the packaging assembly according to yet another embodiment, in an unfolded state, is shown;

[0133] Figure 10 It is shown in the folded state. Figure 9 The packaging set;

[0134] Figure 11 It shows Figure 10 A schematic perspective view of the packaging assembly. Detailed Implementation

[0135] Figure 1 A packaged product 1 including a container 2 and a package 10 is shown. The container 2 includes a container body 2.0, a measured amount of food component 4, and a diaphragm 9. The container body 2.0 defines a cavity 6 containing the measured amount of food component 4. The cavity 6 has an opening 8 defined by the container body 2.0.

[0136] The container body 2.0 may have an inner side 2.1 that forms the cavity 6 and an outer side 2.2 that extends opposite to the cavity 6. The container body 2.0 may be substantially truncated conical in shape, thus exhibiting rotational symmetry. The diaphragm 9 may be substantially circular in shape, thus exhibiting rotational symmetry. The cavity 6 may also be truncated conical in shape. Furthermore, the container body 2.0 may include a flange 2.3 extending around the opening 8. The flange 2.3 may be integral with the container body 2.0. The flange 2.3 may be substantially planar annular in shape. This dose of food component 4 is adapted to interact with the fluid introduced into the cavity 6 to prepare a food product. The food component 4 may be ground coffee. Figure 1 and Figure 2In the example, container 2 is a rigid capsule, and the dose of ground coffee is suitable for preparing a single serving of beverage. While container 2 is being processed in a preparation machine (not shown), hot water can be injected into chamber 6, where it interacts with food component 4 to prepare a coffee beverage as a food product to be dispensed by the preparation machine.

[0137] The packaged product 1 also includes packaging 10. Packaging 10 includes a protective sheet 12, which is arranged to cover the outer side 2.2 of the container body 2.0 but not to cover the opening 8 (nor to cover the top of the flange 2.3).

[0138] The packaging 10 also includes a sealing sheet 14, which is arranged to cover the diaphragm 9 and the protective sheet 12 around the flange 2.3, such that the container 2 is sealed closed between the protective sheet 12 and the sealing sheet 14. Figure 1 In the example, the closed sheet 14 can be planar.

[0139] The sealing sheet 14 and the protective sheet 12 can be airtight and watertight. The sealing sheet 14 and / or the protective sheet 12 can be multilayer sheets. The sealing sheet 14 and / or the protective sheet 12 may, for example, include an ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH) inner layer disposed between two polypropylene outer layers (claims).

[0140] Each of the protective sheet 12 and the sealing sheet 14 may have an average thickness of approximately 0.5 mm. Each of the protective sheet 12 and the sealing sheet 14 may have a thickness of less than 1 cm at 23°C and 50% relative humidity. 3 / m 2 / day / bar oxygen permeability and less than 1g / m 2 / day / bar water vapor transmission rate. The protective sheet 12 and the sealing sheet 14 can form a barrier against dust, oxygen and moisture.

[0141] Container 2 can be sealed shut by an impermeable closing sheet 14 and a protective sheet 12. The protective sheet 12 can be arranged to tightly cover the outer surface 2.2 of the container body 2.0. The protective sheet 12 can be thermoformed onto the container body 2.0. The closing sheet 14 and the protective sheet 12 can be sealed to each other along a sheet attachment section 20, which can be substantially annular in shape.

[0142] The maximum gap between the container body 2.0 and the protective sheet 14 can be less than 0.25 mm and is preferably 0 mm. Since air and steam cannot enter between the protective sheet 12 and the container body 2.0 and / or since there may be no air or very little air in the packaging 10, the quality of the food components 4 can be well maintained.

[0143] The diaphragm 9 and the container body 2.0 are attached to each other to seal the cavity 6. The diaphragm 9 extends around the opening 8 such that the sealing sheet 14 defines the diaphragm 9 sealing the cavity 6. The diaphragm 9 may be directly glued to the container body 2.0, preferably glued to the flange 2.3. The diaphragm 9 may have a diameter of about 30 mm.

[0144] The sealing sheet 14 and the protective sheet 12 are attached to each other along the sheet attachment section 20. The sheet attachment section 20 extends around the diaphragm 9 and the flange 2.3. The maximum distance between the sheet attachment section 20 and the section of the diaphragm 9 attached to the container body 2.0 can be about 5 mm and can be substantially constant.

[0145] The protective sheet 12 may surround and extend outside the flange 2.3. The peripheral portion of the diaphragm 9 may extend along the flange 2.3. The flange 2.3 may provide support for the diaphragm 9 on the container body 2.0. Since the diaphragm 9 may have a circular periphery, the sheet attachment section 20 may also have a circular periphery with a larger diameter.

[0146] The main body attachment section 16 and the sheet attachment section 20 may extend around the same plane, which may be defined by the top surface of the flange 2.3 and may be substantially parallel to the opening 8. Figure 1 In the example, the body attachment section 16 and the sheet attachment section 20 may be slightly apart from each other.

[0147] exist Figure 1 and Figure 2 In the example, a weld can be formed at the sheet attachment section 16. This weld provides a seal that is essentially impermeable to dust, moisture, and air, which helps maintain the quality of food component 4.

[0148] Most or all of container 2 (particularly the container body 2.0 and diaphragm 9) may be biodegradable and / or compostable. Container body 2.0 may be made of one or more layers of pulp material and / or preferably a cellulose-based material having more than 80% cellulose fibers. Container body 2.0 may be a biopolymer, such as polylactic acid (PLA). During storage of the packaged product 1, the container body 2.0 may be protected from external oxygen and moisture by a protective sheet 12 covering it.

[0149] The closure sheet 14 has a weakening line 22 that surrounds the diaphragm 9 and extends particularly along the sheet attachment section 20 to define a cover portion 24. The weakening line 22 is configured such that it allows the cover portion 24 to be partially or completely separated from the rest of the closure sheet 14 by a manual force F of, for example, 20 N applied to the protective sheet 12 to press the container 2 against the closure sheet 14, such that the weakening line 22 is partially or completely torn and defines a retrieval opening in the closure sheet 14 for removing the container 2 from the protective sheet 12.

[0150] The weakening line 22 may extend along the sheet attachment section 20 to define a retrieval opening in the closure sheet 14 for allowing retrieval of the container 2 from the protective sheet 12. The weakening line 22 may be formed by mechanical stamping or indentation. The weakening line 22 may also be a notch that extends only partially through the closure sheet 14, thus not through the entire thickness of the closure sheet 14, thereby enhancing the watertightness and airtightness of the packaged product 1.

[0151] The weakening line 22 may also be separate from the attachment section 20 and extend on the portion of the closure sheet 14 facing the diaphragm 9. The weakening line 22 may also be any geometry that allows the closure sheet 14 to open. The weakening line may be, for example, in the form of a cross on the surface of the closure sheet 14.

[0152] The user can easily disassemble the components of container 2 by pushing the container body 2.0 with force F to tear the weakening line 22, and then taking the container out through the opening 8. Container 2, including the container body 2.0, food components 4, and diaphragm 9, can be safely manipulated and processed in a beverage preparation machine (not shown).

[0153] Figure 2 A method 100 for manufacturing packaged product 1 is shown. Method 100 includes:

[0154] -102) Provides a container 2, which includes a container body 2.0 defining i) cavity 6 and ii) opening 8 of cavity 6.

[0155] -104) This dose of food component 4 is introduced into cavity 6.

[0156] -106) Attach the diaphragm 9 to the container body 2.0 to seal the cavity 6, and

[0157] -106) Package 10 is formed in the following manner:

[0158] •108) Arrange the protective sheet 12 to cover the container body 2.0, and

[0159] •110) The closing sheet 14 is arranged to cover at least a portion of the diaphragm 9 and the protective sheet 12, such that the container 2 is surrounded (preferably sealed closed) between the protective sheet 12 and the closing sheet 14.

[0160] •112) The protective sheet 12 is attached to the closing sheet 14 along the sheet attachment section 10, which extends around the diaphragm 9.

[0161] In addition, method 100 may include: before or after the food component 4 is placed in the cavity 6, 114) thermoforming the protective sheet 12 directly on the outer side 2.3 of the container body 2.0.

[0162] As an alternative to thermoforming, other methods, such as blow molding or vacuum forming, can be used to apply the protective sheet 12 around the outer surface 2.3 of the container body 2.0.

[0163] Figures 3 to 4 The packaged product 1 is shown, comprising a container 2 and a package 10, which differ from the following main components in relation to... Figure 1 The containers and packaging depicted are similar.

[0164] Similar to Figure 1 In one embodiment, container 2 includes i) a container body 2.0, ii) a cavity 6 containing food components, and iii) a septum 9 sealing the cavity 4. Container 2 can be a rigid single-serving capsule for ground coffee. Similar to... Figure 1 In the implementation plan, Figure 3 The packaging 10 includes a protective sheet 12 and a sealing sheet 14.

[0165] Figure 3 The weakening line 22 in the design can be essentially linear, rather than Figure 1 The circular design in the middle. Figure 3 The weakening line 22 extends near the diaphragm 9. Except... Figure 1 In addition to the plastic film of the implementation plan, Figure 4 The enclosing sheet 14 may also include a paper or cardboard layer. The user may apply manual force F to the protective sheet 12 to press the container 2 against the enclosing sheet 14.

[0166] like Figure 4 As shown and similar to in Figure 1 In one embodiment, the weakening line 22 allows the cover portion 24 to separate from the rest of the closing sheet 14 under the action of force F, such that the weakening line 22 is torn open and defines a retrieval opening 26 in the closing sheet 14 for retrieving the container 2 from the protective sheet 12.

[0167] Because weakening line 22 is in Figure 3 The container has a linear design, so there is only a partial separation between the cover portion 24 and the rest of the closing sheet 14, but the retrieval opening 26 created by this partial separation is large enough to allow the container 2 to be retrieved from the protective sheet 12.

[0168] Figures 5A to 5C The packaging group 201 in the manufacturing process is shown. Packaging group 201 includes multiple packaged products 1. Each of the two illustrated packaged products 1 is substantially as described above regarding... Figure 1 As described. Packaged products 1 are arranged in rows. Their protective sheets 12 form a first integral sheet 212, and their closing sheets 14 form a second integral sheet 214.

[0169] Because the packaging 10 is joined side-by-side by a protective sheet 12 and a closing sheet 14, the protective sheet 12 on one side and the closing sheet 14 on the other side form a continuous whole surrounding all the packaged products 1 of the packaging assembly 201. In other words, the packaged products 1 share i) a common protective sheet, namely the first integral sheet 212, and ii) a common closing sheet, namely the second integral sheet 214. This allows for convenient handling and transport of the packaged products 1.

[0170] As in Figure 5A and Figure 5B As can be seen in the sequence, the common protective sheet 212 can be set in the mold M and thermoformed onto the container body 2.0 of the packaged product 1.

[0171] In an alternative not illustrated, the protective sheet may first be formed on a mold that is substantially similar in shape to the container body, and then attached (preferably sealed) to the container body. Thus, operations 102 to 112 may be performed in various sequences.

[0172] For example, the container body 2.0 can be initially left empty. Then, a protective sheet 212 can be attached (preferably sealed) to the container body 2.0. After this, the cavity 6 can be filled with food components 4. The cavity 6 can then be sealed by gluing a diaphragm 7 to the flange 2.3. Finally, the sealing sheet 14 can be attached to the corresponding protective sheet 12 by welding a second integral sheet 214 to the first integral sheet 212 at the sheet attachment section 20.

[0173] Therefore, arranging the protective sheet 12 to be assembled onto the container body 2 may include: first forming the protective sheet 12 on a mold that is substantially similar in shape to the container body 2, and then attaching the protective sheet 12 to the container body 2.

[0174] exist Figure 5B After the thermoforming stage, the common protective sheet 212 (first integral sheet) and the common sealing sheet 214 (second integral sheet) can be attached between the two consecutive containers 2, for example, by laser welding.

[0175] Figures 6A to 6C The following main differences are shown in relation to... Figures 5A to 5C The packaging group depicted is similar to packaging group 201. (And in...) Figures 5A to 5C In different implementation schemes, each container 2 may have a container body 2.0 and a diaphragm 9 that are substantially symmetrical to each other.

[0176] With Figures 5A to 5C The implementation schemes differ, and container 2 can be used in... Figure 6A First, a common container body 202.0 is provided for formation, which is formed from a common integral sheet of at least two containers 2. Figure 6B In this process, a laser beam can be used to cut the layers spanning the container body 202.0, thereby individualizing each container body 202.0. Then, the food component 4 can be placed in the container body 2.0, and a common diaphragm 9 can be arranged to surround the food component 4 and complete the container 2.

[0177] As Figures 6A to 6C The specific features of the implementation scheme, the common protective sheet 212 and the sealing sheet 214 can be preformed before filling the container 2.

[0178] Can be executed in different orders Figures 6A to 6C The operations illustrated herein. For example, preliminary operations may include producing a flat laminate comprising at least two layers of a protective sheet and a (e.g., paper-based) body sheet, and then molding the laminate into the shape of a container to form a cavity. Figures 7A to 7C The following main differences are shown in relation to... Figures 6A to 6C The packaging group depicted is similar to packaging group 201. (And in...) Figures 6A to 6C Unlike other implementation schemes, container 2 (i.e., the main body, food components, and diaphragm) can be configured as a single unit, rather than assembled in segments. Figures 6A to 6C In a different implementation scheme, the common protective sheet 212 and the enclosing sheet 214 can be thermoformed tightly around the container 2, rather than preformed.

[0179] Figures 8A to 8C show the differences from the following main differences regarding... Figures 6A to 6C The packaging group depicted is similar to packaging group 201. (And in...) Figures 6A to 6C Unlike other implementation schemes, container 2 (i.e., the main body, food components, and diaphragm) can be configured as a single unit, similar to that in Figure 8B, rather than being assembled in segments. Figures 6A to 6C In a different implementation, before container 2 is placed, the common protective sheet 212 can be held and formed by a vacuum indicated by all arrows in Figures 8A and 8B. The common closing sheet 214 of Figure 8B can then be thermoformed to resemble the one in... Figures 7A to 7C middle.

[0180] Figure 9 , Figure 10 , Figure 11 Packaging group 201 is shown, which is related to Figures 5A to 5CThe packaging groups shown are similar and may include a first subgroup 201.1 of packaged products 1 and a second subgroup 201.2 of packaged products 1, the first subgroup being arranged, for example, in a first row of 5 packaged products, and the second subgroup being arranged, for example, in a second row of 5 packaged products.

[0181] In the assembled state ( Figure 10 In this configuration, the packaged product 1 of the first subgroup 201.1 and the packaged product 1 of the second subgroup 201.2 are almost completely engaged, such that each packaged product 1 of the first subgroup 201.1 extends almost entirely within the gap 230 between the two consecutive packaged products 1 of the second subgroup 201.2.

[0182] In the assembled state ( Figure 10 In this case, the packaged product 1 of the second subgroup 201.2 is almost completely engaged with the packaged product 1 of the first subgroup 201.1, such that each packaged product 1 of the second subgroup 201.2 extends almost entirely in the gap 230 between the two consecutive packaged products 1 of the first subgroup 201.1.

[0183] The packaging assembly 201 may also include a foldable portion 222 that links the first sub-assembly 201.1 to the second sub-assembly 201.2. Through the foldable portion 222, the packaging assembly 201 can be positioned... Figure 9 The unfolded state and Figure 10 The foldable portion 222 may preferably include corresponding portions of the closing sheet 14 and the protective sheet 12. The packaging assembly 201 can provide a compact arrangement of the packaged product 1, which in turn reduces the storage space of the packaged product or the size of the optional auxiliary cover 240.

[0184] like Figure 11 As shown, in order to retrieve a container from the first subgroup 201.1 or the second subgroup 201.2, the user can tear open the auxiliary cover 240 and then apply manual force F to push the container 2 upward to press it against the cover portion 24 until the weakening line 22 is torn open and the container 1 can be retrieved through the access opening.

[0185] The invention as defined in the appended claims is not limited to the foregoing objects, aspects, embodiments and specific implementations, most of which can be combined.

Claims

1. A packaged product (1), the packaged product comprising a container (2) and packaging (10): The container (2) mentioned above includes: - Container body (2.0), the container body defining cavity (6) and opening (8) of cavity (6). - A certain dose of food component (4) contained within the cavity (6), the dose of food component (4) being adapted to interact with a fluid introduced into the cavity (6) in order to prepare a food product, and - A diaphragm (9) is attached to the container body (2.0) to close the cavity (6). The packaging (10) said therein includes: - Protective sheet (12), said protective sheet being arranged to cover the outer side (2.2) of the container body (2.0), and - A sealing sheet (14), which is arranged to cover at least a portion of the diaphragm (9) and the protective sheet (12), such that the container (2) is surrounded between the protective sheet (12) and the sealing sheet (14). The sealing sheet (14) and the protective sheet (12) are attached to each other along a sheet attachment section (20) that extends around the diaphragm (9), and The closure sheet (14) has a weakening line (22) extending near or around a portion or all of the diaphragm (9), the weakening line (22) being configured such that it allows the cap portion (24) to be at least partially separated from the rest of the closure sheet (14) by a hand force (F) applied to the protective sheet (12) to press the container (2) against the closure sheet (14), such that the weakening line (22) is partially or completely torn and defines a retrieval opening (26) in the closure sheet (14) for retrieving the container (2) from the protective sheet (12).

2. The packaging product (1) according to claim 1, wherein the weakening line (22) extends around a portion or all of the sheet attachment section (20), preferably along a portion or all of the sheet attachment section (20), to define a retrieval opening in the closure sheet (14) that allows the container (2) to be retrieved from the protective sheet (12).

3. The packaging product (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the weakening line (22) is made of a perforation line, a scoring line or a combination thereof, and the weakening line (22) is preferably formed mechanically or by laser.

4. The packaging product (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the protective sheet (12) is thermoformed, blow-molded or vacuum-formed to be assembled onto the container body (2.0), -The protective sheet (12) is formed directly on the container body (2), or The protective sheet (12) is first formed on a mold that is substantially similar in shape to the container body (2), and the protective sheet (12) is then attached to the container body (2). The maximum gap between the container body (2.0) and the protective sheet (12) is preferably less than 3 mm, preferably less than 1 mm, more preferably less than 0.25 mm, and even more preferably 0 mm. The protective sheet (12) is preferably thermoformed on the container body (2.0).

5. The packaged product (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the container body (2.0) comprises: -Fiber-based materials or their derivatives or byproducts, wherein the fiber-based materials are selected from the group consisting of: flax, bamboo, sisal, kenaf, miscanthus, nettle, and wood derivatives (MFC, NFC, CNC). - A cellulose-based material, selected from the group consisting of paper, wood, and bamboo, wherein the bamboo is in the form of paper, paperboard, or molded pulp components. - Biopolymers, selected from the group consisting of PLA, PBAT, PCL, PBS, PBSL, PBSA, PBST, PGA, PHA, and / or present in the form of films (molded, formed) or injection-molded parts. - Any combination of them.

6. The packaging product (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the sheet attachment section (20) is formed by thermal welding, laser welding, adhesive welding, pressure welding, friction welding, ultrasonic welding and / or any combination thereof.

7. The packaging product (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the container body (2.0) further includes a flange (2.0) extending around the opening (8), and the diaphragm (9) is attached to the flange (2.3) to close the cavity (6).

8. The packaging product (1) according to claim 7, wherein the maximum distance between the flange (2.3) and the sheet attachment section (20) is between 1 mm and 20 mm.

9. The packaging product (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the protective sheet (12) and the sealing sheet (14), preferably each, has a density of less than 1 cm at 23°C and 50% relative humidity. 3 / m 2 / day / bar oxygen permeability and less than 1g / m 2 / day / bar water vapor transmission rate.

10. The packaging product (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the protective sheet (12) and the closing sheet (14) has an average thickness between 0.1 mm and 10 mm, and the closing sheet (14) may be planar.

11. The packaged product (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the protective sheet (12) and the sealing sheet (14) is made of a material selected from the group consisting of: - Biodegradable or compostable materials, wherein the biodegradable or compostable materials include: ○ A biopolymer-based material having one or more layers, said biopolymer-based material being selected from the group consisting of: poly(butylene adipate-co-butylene terephthalate) (PBAT), poly(butylene succinate-co-butylene adipate) (PBSA), poly(butylene succinate-co-lactide) (PBSL), poly(butylene succinate-co-butylene terephthalate) (PBST), poly(butylene succinate) (PBS), lactic acid polymer (PLA), polycaprolactone (PCL), polyesteramine (PEA), polyglycolic acid (PGA), poly(methylene adipate-co-methylene terephthalate) (PTMAT), polyvinyl alcohol, polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA), or mixtures thereof; and / or ○ A fiber-based material having one or more layers, the fiber-based material being selected from the group consisting of: cellulose, paper, pulp, wood, wood derivatives (MFC, NFC and CNC), bamboo, flax, sisal, kenaf, miscanthus and nettle and any combination thereof, the fiber-based material having been or not subjected to chemical pretreatment; The biodegradable or compostable material is provided with at least one barrier layer, which is preferably selected from the group consisting of: ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH), poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVOH), butene glycol-vinyl alcohol copolymer (BVOH), polyglycolic acid (PGA), and preferably a metallization layer made of aluminum, and any combination thereof; - Recyclable materials, including: polymer-based materials selected from the group consisting of: polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyamide (PA), and polyethylene furanate (PEF); Preferably, the recyclable material is provided with at least one barrier layer, the barrier layer preferably selected from the group consisting of: ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH), poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVOH), butene glycol-vinyl alcohol copolymer (BVOH), polyglycolic acid (PGA), and preferably a metallization layer made of aluminum. - Any combination of them.

12. A packaging group (201) comprising a plurality of packaging products (1), each packaging product (1) being a packaging product according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a portion or all of the plurality of packaging products (1) are arranged in rows or grids, and wherein the protective sheet (12) of the plurality of packaging products (1) forms a first integral sheet (212), and wherein the closing sheet (14) of the plurality of packaging products (1) forms a second integral sheet (214).

13. The packaging assembly (1) according to claim 12, wherein the packaging assembly further comprises: -The first subgroup (201.1) of the packaged product (1), wherein the first subgroup is arranged at least in the first row or the first grid, and -The second subgroup (201.2) of the packaged product (1), the second subgroup being arranged in at least the second row or the second grid. In the assembled state, the packaging product (1) of the first subgroup (201.1) and the packaging product (1) of the second subgroup (201.2) are fully or partially engaged, such that: i) Several packaged products (1) of the first subgroup (201.1) extend entirely or partially in the gaps (230) between the continuous packaged products (1) of the second subgroup (201.2), and ii) Several packaged products (1) of the second subgroup (201.2) extend entirely or partially in the gaps between the consecutive packaged products (1) of the first subgroup (201.1).

14. A method (100) for manufacturing a packaged product (1), said method (100) comprising: -102) Provides a container (2), the container including a container body (2.0), the container body defining i) a cavity (6) and ii) an opening of the cavity (6), -104) A certain dose of food component (4) is introduced into the cavity (6), the dose of food component (4) being suitable for interacting with the fluid introduced into the cavity (6) in order to prepare a food product. -106) Attach the diaphragm (9) to the container body (2.0) to close the cavity (6), and -108) Packaging is formed in the following manner (10): • Arrange the protective sheet (12) to cover the container body (2.0), and • The sealing sheet (14) is arranged to cover at least a portion of the diaphragm (9) and the protective sheet (12), such that the container (2) is surrounded between the protective sheet (12) and the sealing sheet (14). • The protective sheet (12) is attached to the sealing sheet (14) along the sheet attachment section (20), the sheet attachment section (20) extending around the diaphragm (9), and -110) A weakening line (22) is provided for the closure sheet (14), the weakening line extending around a portion or all of the diaphragm (9), preferably extending along a portion or all of the sheet attachment section (20), such that the closure sheet (14) defines a cover portion (24), the weakening line (22) being configured to allow the cover portion (24) to be at least partially separated from the rest of the closure sheet (14) so ​​as to define a retrieval opening in the closure sheet (14) for retrieving the container (2) from the protective sheet (12).

15. The method of claim 14, wherein the arrangement of the protective sheet (12) comprises performing one of thermoforming, blow molding or vacuum forming on the protective sheet (12) to assemble it onto the container body (2): - The protective sheet (12) is formed directly on the container body (2), or - First, the protective sheet (12) is formed on a mold that is substantially similar in shape to the container body (2), and then the protective sheet (12) is attached to the container body (2). The maximum gap between the container body (2.0) and the protective sheet (12) is preferably less than 3 mm, preferably less than 1 mm, more preferably less than 0.25 mm, and even more preferably 0 mm. The protective sheet (12) is preferably thermoformed on the container body (2.0).

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