Single-serve capsule for preparing a beverage using a beverage-preparation machine, beverage-preparation system, and method for producing a single-serve capsule

Abstract

The invention relates to a single-serve capsule for preparing a beverage using a beverage-preparation machine. The single-serve capsule has a base element with a cavity for receiving a beverage raw material and a cover element which closes the cavity, and the base element has a base region, a capsule wall which extends from the base region to an open end, and a flange which encircles the open end. The single-serve capsule has a detectable identification code, wherein the single-serve capsule comprises a separately formed support element, said support element having the identification code, and the support element is arranged on the flange side facing away from the base region.

Description

[0001] DESCRIPTION

[0002] title

[0003] Portion capsule for preparing a beverage using a beverage preparation machine, beverage preparation system and method for producing a portion capsule

[0004] State of the art

[0005] The present invention is based on a portion capsule for preparing a beverage with a beverage preparation machine, wherein the portion capsule has a base element with a cavity for receiving a beverage raw material and a lid element closing the cavity, wherein the base element comprises a bottom region, a capsule wall extending from the bottom region to an open end and a flange surrounding the open end, wherein the portion capsule has a detectable identification code.

[0006] Such portion capsules are known from the prior art. For example, WO 2016 / 186488 A1 discloses such a portion capsule of this type. Such a portion capsule is designed to be inserted into a brewing chamber, in which the portion capsule is perforated to introduce liquid, usually in the form of hot water, under pressure into the cavity. The interaction between the introduced water and the beverage raw material, for example, roasted and ground coffee, creates a beverage that leaves the portion capsule through an outlet area and enters a container.

[0007] For each type of portion capsule, there is usually a suitable beverage preparation machine, which is optimized for preparing beverages based on the corresponding portion capsules. To avoid malfunctions, it has proven useful to provide such portion capsules with machine- and automatically readable identification codes. This allows a check to be carried out before the brewing process begins as to whether the inserted portion capsule is compatible with the machine. In addition, a suitable brewing program can be started for the beverage raw material contained in the portion capsule if necessary. From the publications EP 3023362 B1, WO2020 / 201487 A1 and US 10,800,600 B2, it is known to print optically detectable features in the form of barcodes or binary codes on the flange of the capsule.

[0008] In the conventional single-dose capsules, the lid element is bonded, specifically sealed, to the flange during production. However, this can lead to structural damage to the flange. This can either damage an already applied identification code or make subsequent application of the identification code more difficult.

[0009] Furthermore, it is known to produce portion capsules from recyclable, biodegradable, and / or compostable materials for reasons of sustainability and resource conservation. However, this is challenging because the portion capsule must simultaneously maintain aroma tightness, particularly gas tightness, in order to store the beverage raw materials contained therein in a near-optimal condition for as long as possible, thus ensuring optimal beverage quality over a longer period of time.

[0010] When disposing of a portion capsule, it is therefore often essential to recycle the lid element separately from the base element and also to remove any previously used beverage raw material or its residues from the base element beforehand. However, this is made more difficult with conventional portion capsules, firstly, by the fact that the lid element is firmly attached, for example, sealed, to the flange of the base element, and secondly, by the fact that the known identification codes are applied to the flange, which requires a sufficiently stable flange for reliable application and reading of the identification code.

[0011] Disclosure of the invention

[0012] It is an object of the present invention to provide a portion capsule with a detectable identification code, which represents an improvement over the solutions known from the cited prior art. In particular, the identification code should be error-free and easy to apply to the portion capsule during its manufacture. Furthermore, it is desirable to further develop the known portion capsules such that the reading of the identification code in the beverage preparation machine is more reliable. Finally, it is an object of the present invention to provide a more sustainable portion capsule, which, in particular, is easier to disassemble into its components and which, as a whole, is more environmentally friendly than the known portion capsules.

[0013] The object of the present invention is achieved with a portion capsule according to claim 1.

[0014] Advantageous embodiments and further developments of the invention can be found in the dependent claims and the following description with reference to the drawings.

[0015] The advantages and the associated embodiments explained for this subject matter of the present invention also apply accordingly to the other subject matters of the present invention and vice versa.

[0016] A portion capsule for preparing a beverage with a beverage preparation machine is proposed, wherein the portion capsule has a base element with a cavity for receiving a beverage raw material and a lid element closing the cavity, wherein the base element comprises a base region, a capsule wall extending from the base region to an open end and a flange surrounding the open end, wherein the portion capsule has an identification code, in particular an optically detectable one.

[0017] The portion capsule according to the invention is provided in such a way that the portion capsule comprises a separately formed carrier element, wherein the carrier element has the identification code, wherein the carrier element is arranged on the side of the flange facing away from the base region. Thus, in particular, the information encrypted by the identification code is stored in or on the carrier element.

[0018] The portion capsule according to the invention has the advantage over portion capsules known from the prior art that the identification code is not provided on the flange, but rather on or in the additional support element, which is separate from the base element. This eliminates a potential source of error during production and / or use of the capsule. Furthermore, the flange is no longer required for applying the identification code, which creates space for additional functions. For example, the flange can now be used for sealing in the brewing chamber.

[0019] In the context of the present invention, an identification code should preferably be understood as any machine-readable information. In particular, it also includes information that can be interpreted as binary information by the beverage preparation machine in the sense of a "1" or "0" or a "yes" or "no". The identification code is particularly preferably designed such that, upon successful detection, the beverage preparation machine identifies the portion capsule, in particular the carrier element, as suitable for preparation in the beverage preparation machine. For this purpose, for example, at least one surface section of the carrier element, preferably a circumferential surface section, can have a predetermined electrical conductivity.The beverage preparation machine then preferably detects the electrical conductivity before beverage preparation and authorizes beverage preparation if the predetermined electrical conductivity is measured. Even more preferably, the identification code comprises further information, for example, on preparation parameters and / or information on a beverage raw material contained in the portion capsule, which can then be detected and implemented, in particular, by the beverage preparation machine. The beverage preparation machine, in particular a controller of the beverage preparation machine, can decode the information stored in the carrier element. Alternatively, it is also conceivable, for example, that different predetermined electrical conductivities can encode different information.For example, different discrete values ​​of electrical conductivity can be associated with certain information, such as preparation parameters and / or information concerning the beverage raw material.

[0020] The identification code is preferably arranged on the carrier element. The detectable identification code is preferably printed onto the carrier element or inserted into the carrier element, for example embossed. Alternatively or additionally, the identification code is provided in one piece with at least part of the carrier element. The identification code particularly preferably comprises a barcode, in particular a bit and / or barcode, the coding lines of which run particularly in a radial direction. Most particularly preferably, the coding lines comprise white and / or black bars of equal or unequal thickness along a circumferential direction (concentric around the central axis). Further examples of an identification code are an area with a predetermined optical reflectivity, an area with predetermined magnetic and / or electrical properties, an RFID code, in particular one transmitted by means of near-field communication (RFID).Near Field Communication (NFC) detectable RFID code (i.e., an NFC code), a DataMatrix code, a Maxi Code, an Aztec Code, a JAB Code, and / or a QR Code. Alternatively or additionally, information can also be encoded via a mechanical property of the carrier element. For example, a thickness (in the axial direction), a diameter (in the radial direction), a surface texture, and / or an elasticity of the carrier element can be detected by the beverage preparation machine.

[0021] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the lid element is an elastic lid film and / or has a material reservoir, wherein the lid element is designed such that it bulges outwards, i.e. assumes a convex shape, for example due to outgassing of the beverage raw material. A material reservoir here means in particular that in the fastened state the lid element is not under tension, but can bulge outwards, in particular under the pressure of the gas produced in the cavity of the portion capsule, for example carbon dioxide in the case of roasted coffee as the beverage raw material. The person skilled in the art will understand that in this case the lid element has a convex cross-section after the cavity containing the beverage raw material has been closed, in particular in an airtight and / or aroma-tight manner.This makes it particularly advantageous that any pressure generated in the cavity can be at least partially absorbed by deformation of the cover element and does not act entirely on the base element, which is particularly crucial in the case of a base element made of sustainable materials.

[0022] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the cover element is a substantially flexible cover film. The cover element is preferably provided in one or more layers. Particularly preferably, the cover element comprises at least one barrier layer and at least one carrier layer. Such a barrier layer is in particular impermeable to gases such as oxygen. Very particularly preferably, the cover element comprises at least one layer of an aluminum material. The cover element preferably comprises a plastic-aluminum composite film or a plastic film or a multi-layer plastic film. Particularly preferably, the cover element is made essentially of one material over its entire extent, or the cover element is made at least partially of different materials in different areas.This makes it possible, in an advantageous manner, for the portion capsule to be sealed aroma-tight by an appropriately selected lidding film and for the beverage raw material to retain its aroma even over a longer storage period.

[0023] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the portion capsule contains one or more beverage raw materials. The beverage raw material can be a liquid, a syrup, a solid, a powder, coffee or cocoa grounds, and / or leaves, in particular coffee roast granules, instant coffee, chocolate powder, tea blends, and / or milk powder. The beverage raw material is preferably dilutable, dissolvable, and / or extractable in a beverage preparation machine and / or a beverage preparation system to produce a beverage.

[0024] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the flange of the base element extends at an angle of between 70 and 110 degrees, particularly preferably between 80 and 100 degrees, and most preferably substantially 90 degrees to the central axis. The flange is preferably designed to be closed and circumferential, in particular with a constant radial extension.

[0025] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the support element is arranged on the side of the lid element facing away from the flange. This side can also be referred to as the top side of the flange. This advantageously enables the support element to be connected to the lid element, so that the support element and the lid element preferably form a unit that can particularly preferably be removed together from the base element when disposing of the portion capsule. Furthermore, in this way, the flange can interact directly with an element of the beverage preparation machine, for example a brewing chamber part, and thus achieve a sealing effect.

[0026] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, it is provided that the carrier element is arranged at least partially between the flange and the cover element. Alternatively, it is provided that the cover element is arranged at least partially between the flange and the carrier element. This advantageously makes it possible for the carrier element to be connectable to the cover element, so that preferably the carrier element and the cover element form a unit. According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, it is provided that the carrier element is an insert which extends at least partially beneath the cover element radially in the direction of a central capsule axis, wherein the insert preferably fills the entire internal cross section of the base element.Particularly preferably, the carrier element is spaced from the cover element at least in a central region, preferably over the entire free cross-section of the base element. Very particularly preferably, the carrier element has holes or perforations and / or a filter material in at least one region. According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the cover element is fastened to the capsule wall, in particular to the inside of the capsule wall. The cover element can, for example, be guided slightly into the cavity via a sonotrode and there be materially connected laterally to the capsule wall or be glued to the capsule wall. Particularly preferably, the cover element is connected to the capsule wall from the inside. This makes it particularly advantageous to combine several functions in the carrier element.According to the invention, the primary function of the carrier element is to serve as a carrier for the identification code. At the same time, a carrier element designed as an insert can also function as a filter element and / or liquid distributor and / or at least partially compress the beverage raw material. Another possible function of the carrier element is to simplify the recycling or disposal of portion capsules, which will be explained in more detail below.

[0027] Preferably, the lid element is arranged substantially flush with the flange and / or the support element. Particularly preferably, the main extension planes of the lid element, the support element, and / or the flange are substantially identical. "Substantially" means that the main extension planes can be parallel to one another, but have a slight offset in a vertical direction, in particular along a central capsule axis. This advantageously results in a more compact portion capsule in the region of the flange.

[0028] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the base element, the carrier element, and / or the lid element are made of a recyclable, biodegradable, and / or compostable, in particular home-compostable, material, in particular aluminum and / or a material comprising plant fibers and / or at least one polymer. Alternatively or additionally, a bio-based plastic and / or an oxo-degradable or oxo-biodegradable plastic can also be used as the material. In this case, aluminum is to be understood as an aluminum alloy with a high proportion of recycled aluminum. Possible polymers include, for example, polylactic acid (PLA), polycaprolactone (PCL), polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), and / or thermoplastic starch (TPS). Possible plant materials include, for example, wood, hemp, flax, cotton, bamboo, and / or cellulose-based materials.Preferably, the base element, the carrier element, and / or the lid element are provided in one or more layers. Particularly preferably, the base element, the carrier element, and / or the lid element comprise at least one barrier layer and / or at least one carrier layer. Thus, a portion capsule is particularly advantageously provided that is at least partially recyclable and / or biodegradable. This enables an environmentally friendly portion capsule. The base element preferably comprises a coating on the inside of the portion capsule, i.e., on the side facing the cavity.

[0029] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the base element is produced by cold or hot forming, in particular deep drawing. The hollow design of the base element is preferably created by thermoforming, for example, deep drawing using negative pressure, positive pressure, and / or a movable die. Alternatively, the portion capsule is produced by injection molding, in particular using a single-component, multi-component, or in-mold process.

[0030] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the carrier element, the lid element, and / or the base element comprise at least partially the same materials. This advantageously further simplifies disposal of the portion capsule.

[0031] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the carrier element has an inner diameter that is less than or equal to the inner diameter of the base element in the region of the flange. The inner diameter of the base element in the region of the flange is synonymous with the inner diameter of the base element in the region of the open end and is also referred to as the free inner diameter. An inner diameter of the carrier element that is smaller than the free inner diameter of the base element enables, in particular, fastening of the carrier element to the lid element or to a region of the capsule wall adjacent to the flange, in addition to or alternatively to fastening to the flange.

[0032] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the carrier element has an outer diameter that is larger than the outer diameter of the flange, so that the carrier element projects radially outward beyond the flange, in particular uniformly along the circumference. This advantageously ensures that the identification code is arranged outside the flange and can thus be reliably read.

[0033] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the carrier element has an outer diameter that is greater than or equal to the outer diameter of the cover element. Especially if the cover element is arranged between the carrier element and the flange, this advantageously ensures that the identification code can be reliably read.

[0034] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the lid element extends beyond the flange. This is particularly advantageous when the support element is arranged between the lid element and the flange. In this case, a larger connection surface is possible between the support element and the lid element, which ensures a secure connection and thus increases the aroma seal.

[0035] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the carrier element is designed to be semi-rigid or rigid. This particularly advantageously ensures that the identification code arranged on the carrier element can be reliably read. Particularly preferably, at least the region of the carrier element bearing the identification code is designed to be sufficiently rigid to ensure reliable detection of the identification code when inserted into a beverage preparation machine. Most preferably, the carrier element is designed to be at least partially elastic to enable the carrier element to be removed from the base element.

[0036] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the carrier element is detachably connected, preferably by a material fit, in particular by means of a peel connection, to the lid element and / or the flange. Particularly preferably, the lid element and / or the carrier element is glued and / or sealed to the base element, in particular the flange. This particularly advantageously enables the carrier element and / or the lid element to be easily separated from the base element after use in order to simplify disposal of the portion capsule. A peel connection is to be understood in particular as a material fit that ensures an aroma-tight closure of the portion capsule and also holds it during use in a beverage preparation machine, but which can be released by a user by exerting a pulling force.Most preferably, the peel connection is designed in such a way that a force of between 2N and 20N, even more preferably between 6N and 12N, is required to manually release the connection.

[0037] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the carrier element is connected to both the lid element and the flange, wherein the connection between the carrier element and the lid element is, at least in some sections, stronger than the connection between the carrier element and the flange. It is particularly preferred that the carrier element and the lid element are provided together as a unit detachable from the base element. In this way, the unit can be separated from the base element after use, for example, pulled off, the remaining beverage raw material can be removed from the cavity, and the components can each be appropriately recycled.

[0038] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the connection between the support element and the flange and / or the cover element is designed with varying strengths along the circumference, with the connection preferably having a weakened area in at least one circumferential section. In this way, it is advantageously possible to ensure a tight connection while still ensuring that the individual components can be easily separated from one another for disposal.

[0039] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the base element, the carrier element, and / or the lid element are rotationally symmetrical about a central capsule axis. This advantageously ensures easier use, since a user does not have to pay attention to correct orientation when inserting the capsule into a beverage preparation machine. In particular, this also enables use in a centrifugation-based beverage preparation machine. According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the carrier element has at least one, in particular flexible, tab section.Alternatively or additionally, the cover element has at least one, in particular flexible, tab section, wherein the at least one tab section of the cover element preferably overlaps at least partially, in particular completely, with the at least one tab section of the carrier element. This ensures particularly simple separation of the components from one another.

[0040] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the carrier element is a ring element, in particular a circular one. A ring element is particularly advantageous because it allows for a simple attachment of the identification code as well as a connection to the cover element, in particular a circular one, and / or the flange, in particular a circular one.

[0041] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the identification code is electrically, optically, magnetically, and / or mechanically detectable. This advantageously allows a corresponding detector to be provided in the beverage preparation machine for a specific identification code.

[0042] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the identification code is provided at least on one side of the carrier element facing the base region of the portion capsule. The identification code is preferably provided on a side of the carrier element facing the base region. This position is also referred to as the underside in the context of the present invention. This refers to an orientation of the portion capsule, which rests with the base region on a surface and the lid element is aligned in a horizontal plane. Of course, the portion capsule can, for example, rest flat with the lid element on the surface; in this case, the designations apply accordingly. This position of the identification code advantageously enables detection in a beverage preparation machine in a known manner.

[0043] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the identification code is provided radially on the outside of the carrier element. Particularly preferably, the identification code is provided in an annular region with a predetermined radial extent. Very particularly preferably, the carrier element is arranged relative to the flange and / or the cover element such that there is no overlap between the identification code and the cover element and / or the flange on the side facing the base region. The identification code can thereby advantageously be read completely and reliably. In other words, the carrier element preferably projects so far beyond at least the flange that the identification code is arranged completely radially outside the base element.

[0044] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the identification code is provided on the carrier element at least in sections, in particular along the entire circumference of the carrier element. Particularly preferably, the identification code is provided repeatedly along the circumference of the carrier element. Alternatively, the identification code is provided only in certain regions. Very particularly preferably, the identification code is provided multiple times along the circumference in predetermined and, in particular, evenly spaced regions. In this way, correct automatic detection of the identification code is ensured regardless of the orientation of the portion capsule in the beverage preparation machine.

[0045] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the carrier element comprises a radially inner region that extends at least partially along the inner side of the capsule wall facing the cavity and is preferably attached thereto. In this way, the connection between the carrier element and the base element can be advantageously improved.

[0046] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the base element is substantially frustoconical and / or dome-shaped, with the inner diameter increasing, in particular continuously, from the base region towards the open end. Alternatively or additionally, the base element is at least partially frustoconical, conical, cylindrical, spherical, hemispherical, elliptical, or partially elliptical. The base element is preferably rigid or semi-rigid. According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, at least one sealing element is arranged on the side of the flange and / or the support element facing the base region, which sealing element is designed to create a sealing effect against liquid together with a brewing chamber of the beverage preparation machine that receives the portion capsule.Particularly preferably, the sealing element is formed separately from the base element and / or the carrier element, formed integrally with the base element and / or the carrier element, or formed integrally with the base element and / or the carrier element. The sealing element can, for example, be in the form of a projection or several annular, circumferential projections and / or in the form of an elastically deformable material region. In this way, the tightness is advantageously improved when used in a beverage preparation machine, wherein the sealing element can extend over the entire radial extent of the flange, since the identification code is provided on or at the carrier element.

[0047] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the portion capsule comprises at least one filter element and / or at least one liquid distribution element, wherein the filter element and / or the liquid distribution element is arranged in the cavity, in particular in the bottom region of the portion capsule. Such filter elements are already known and are used in particular to filter water before it comes into contact with the beverage raw material and / or to filter larger solid particles of the beverage raw material from the beverage.Liquid distribution elements are also already known and are used in particular to distribute a liquid, in particular water, which usually flows into the portion capsule in a jet-like manner under high pressure, over the entire surface of the bed of beverage raw material, in particular evenly, and thus avoid possible effects that could negatively influence the beverage quality, such as channeling. It is particularly preferred that the filter element and / or the liquid distribution element be fixed to the base region and / or the capsule wall in a form-fitting, force-fitting and / or material-fitting manner. This advantageously ensures a positionally fixed arrangement of the filter element and / or liquid distribution element in the portion capsule. For example, a filter element comprises a fiber material, in particular a nonwoven material.

[0048] A further subject of the present invention is a beverage preparation system comprising a beverage preparation machine and a portion capsule according to the invention, wherein the beverage preparation machine has a brewing chamber accommodating the portion capsule, wherein the beverage preparation machine has a detector for detecting the, in particular optically, detectable identification code, wherein the detector is arranged in particular in the brewing chamber.

[0049] The beverage preparation system according to the invention is particularly advantageous because the identification code of the portion capsule can be read by the detector, even if the identification code is not located on the flange. If the detector is located in the brewing chamber, it is advantageously possible to detect the identification code of a portion capsule located in the brewing chamber. The brewing chamber can be open, at least partially closed, and / or completely closed.

[0050] The advantages and the associated embodiments explained for this subject matter of the present invention also apply accordingly to the other subject matters of the present invention and vice versa.

[0051] According to a preferred embodiment of the beverage preparation system according to the invention, the brewing chamber comprises a first brewing chamber part and a second brewing chamber part, which are movable relative to one another between an open position, in which a portion capsule can be inserted into the brewing chamber, and a closed position, in which a beverage can be prepared. It is conceivable for one brewing chamber part to be stationary and the other brewing chamber part to be movable, or for both brewing chamber parts to move relative to one another. The movement preferably occurs along a linear and / or at least partially curved movement path. Additionally or alternatively, a rotational movement component is also conceivable.

[0052] According to a preferred embodiment of the beverage preparation system according to the invention, it is provided that the first brewing chamber part has a first piercing means which is movable, in particular between a retracted position and an extended position, wherein the first piercing means, in particular in the extended position, pierces the lid element of the portion capsule, wherein the first piercing means preferably comprises a hollow needle through which a pressurized liquid can be supplied to the cavity of the portion capsule in the extended position.According to a preferred embodiment of the beverage preparation system according to the invention, it is provided that the second brewing chamber part comprises a second piercing means, which is movable in particular between a retracted position and an extended position, wherein the second piercing means is designed such that it perforates the lid element in a region radially spaced from the central axis, in particular provided in the vicinity of the flange, or the base region to form at least one beverage outlet.

[0053] Preferably, the first and second piercing means are configured substantially independently of one another. Particularly preferably, the beverage preparation machine is configured such that first the first piercing means perforates the lid element of the portion capsule in a central piercing region, wherein the first piercing means remains in the extended position for supplying the liquid, particularly during beverage preparation. Subsequently, the second piercing means perforates the lid element in an outer, preferably substantially circular region, particularly near the flange, and is subsequently moved back into the retracted position, so that the beverage can exit unhindered through the beverage outlet openings thus formed.

[0054] According to a preferred embodiment of the beverage preparation system according to the invention, the lid element comprises a circumferential perforated and / or porous beverage outlet area, particularly located near and radially inside the flange. This is particularly advantageous for beverage preparation machines that rely on centrifugation, since the beverage is expelled in the outer area. Additional piercing means are advantageously not required in this case.

[0055] According to a preferred embodiment of the beverage preparation system according to the invention, the brewing chamber for beverage preparation is designed to be rotatable about a central capsule axis in order to guide the beverage out of the portion capsule by centrifugal forces. This advantageously makes it possible for the liquid introduced into the cavity under pressure to flow through the beverage raw material to form the beverage, and for the beverage to flow back along the capsule wall towards the lid element due to centrifugal forces and exit through the beverage outlet openings. According to a preferred embodiment of the beverage preparation system according to the invention, the detector is designed for electrical, optical and / or magnetic detection of the identification code. The detector is preferably matched to the identification code of the portion capsule. This meansFor example, a barcode is detected by an optically operating detector, while an identification code based on magnetic properties is detected by a magnetically operating detector.

[0056] According to a preferred embodiment of the beverage preparation system according to the invention, the detector is designed to detect the identification code of the portion capsule in an open position of the brewing chamber, in an at least partially open position of the brewing chamber, and / or during a movement of the brewing chamber, in particular a relative movement of the first brewing chamber part and / or second brewing chamber part to one another. This advantageously makes it possible to verify or identify the portion capsule early on using the identification code, so that the beverage preparation machine is ready to prepare the beverage when the brewing chamber reaches the closed position (or can indicate to the user, for example, that the portion capsule is not suitable or approved for use in the beverage preparation machine).

[0057] Preferably, the detector is configured such that the optically detectable identification code is read before, during, and / or after the rotation of the brewing chamber and / or the portion capsule. This advantageously provides a particularly flexible beverage preparation machine.

[0058] A further object of the present invention is a use of a portion capsule according to the invention for preparing a beverage with the aid of a beverage preparation machine, in particular in a beverage preparation system according to the invention.

[0059] The advantages explained for this subject matter of the present invention and the associated embodiments also apply accordingly to the other subjects of the present invention and vice versa. Yet another subject matter of the present invention is a method for producing a portion capsule according to the invention, wherein in a first step, a base element, a carrier element and a lid element are provided, wherein the base element comprises a bottom region, a capsule wall extending from the bottom region to an open end and a flange surrounding the open end and forms a cavity for receiving a beverage raw material, wherein the carrier element has a detectable identification code, wherein in a second step, the cavity is filled with the beverage raw material, wherein in a third step, the carrier element is connected to the lid element and / or the carrier element is connected to the base element,in particular the flange, and / or the cover element is connected to the base element, in particular the flange, wherein the support element is arranged on the side of the flange facing away from the base region.

[0060] This makes it particularly advantageous to enable detection of the identification code in the beverage preparation machine, even though the identification code is not located on the base element, and in particular on the flange. Furthermore, separate disposal of the components is simplified, since, for example, the carrier element and the lid element together can form a single unit that can be separated from the base element.

[0061] The advantages and the associated embodiments explained for this subject matter of the present invention also apply accordingly to the other subject matters of the present invention and vice versa.

[0062] According to a preferred embodiment of the method according to the invention, it is provided that the carrier element and / or the cover element is connected to the base element, in particular the flange, by means of a detachable connection, preferably a detachable material connection, in particular a peel connection.

[0063] Further details, features, and advantages of the portion capsule, the beverage preparation system, the use, or the method can be found in the drawings, as well as in the following description of preferred embodiments with reference to the drawings. The drawings merely illustrate exemplary embodiments of the portion capsule, which do not limit the essential inventive concept. Brief description of the drawings

[0064] Figure 1 shows a schematic cross section of a portion capsule according to an exemplary first embodiment of the present invention.

[0065] Figure 2 shows a schematic cross section of a portion capsule according to an exemplary second embodiment of the present invention.

[0066] Figure 3 shows a schematic cross section of a portion capsule according to an exemplary third embodiment of the present invention.

[0067] Figure 4 shows a schematic cross section of a portion capsule according to an exemplary fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0068] Figure 5 shows a schematic cross section of a portion capsule according to an exemplary fifth embodiment of the present invention during disposal of the portion capsule.

[0069] Figure 6 shows a schematic cross section of a portion capsule according to an exemplary sixth embodiment of the present invention.

[0070] Figure 7 shows a schematic cross section of a portion capsule according to an exemplary seventh embodiment of the present invention.

[0071] Embodiments of the invention

[0072] The embodiments explained below each show a portion capsule of essentially the same design. Identical parts are therefore designated by the same reference numerals and will not be described in detail again. Rather, the following explanations primarily focus on the differences between the embodiments. Figure 1 shows a schematic cross-section of a portion capsule 1 according to an exemplary first embodiment of the present invention. The portion capsule 1 is intended for use in a beverage preparation machine for preparing a beverage, in particular by passing a liquid through the portion capsule 1.

[0073] The portion capsule 1 has a base element 2. The base element 2 comprises a capsule wall 4, which is also referred to as the capsule side wall or side wall. The capsule wall 4 extends from a bottom region 3, which is also referred to as the capsule bottom, to a circumferential flange 5, which projects laterally and is in particular designed to be circumferential. The flange 5 preferably projects essentially at a 90° angle to a central capsule axis 100, also referred to as the central axis 100, which runs through the middle of the portion capsule 1. The bottom region 3 is provided horizontally here, so that an angle is formed in the transition to the capsule wall 4, but can alternatively also merge smoothly into the capsule wall 4 (cf. Figure 7). According to the embodiment shown here, the base element 2 is essentially frustoconical.

[0074] The base element 2 defines a cavity 20 intended to accommodate beverage raw material, for example, roasted and ground coffee (for reasons of clarity, the beverage raw material is not illustrated in the figures). On the side facing away from the base region 3, the base element has an open end 10, which forms a filling opening during the production of the portion capsule 1, through which the cavity 20 can be filled with the beverage raw material.

[0075] The capsule wall 4 extends between the base region 3 and the flange 5. At the upper end of the capsule wall 4, the flange 5 extends in the radial direction, relative to the central axis 100, which is circular and thus circumferentially extending.

[0076] The portion capsule 1 is typically sealed with a lid element 6, also referred to as a capsule lid, preferably in the form of a, in particular circular, lid film 6, preferably hermetically, in particular aroma-tight and / or airtight. The lid film 6 thus closes the cavity 20 at the open end 10 of the base element 2.

[0077] An exemplary use of a portion capsule 1 according to the invention is briefly described below. The portion capsule 1 is intended to be inserted into a brewing unit of a beverage preparation machine in order to prepare a beverage. The brewing unit comprises a first brewing chamber part and a second brewing chamber part, wherein the first and second brewing chamber parts are movable, in particular pivotable or displaceable, relative to one another between an approximate position in which the first and second brewing chamber parts form a closed brewing chamber, and an open position in which the first and second brewing chamber parts are spaced apart from one another for inserting or ejecting the portion capsule 1.For the sake of completeness, it should be noted in this context that, despite the terms "brewing unit" and "brewing chamber," this also includes and refers to beverage preparations that do not involve brewing and / or extraction in the narrower sense. In particular, dissolving the beverage raw materials with warm and / or cold water is also covered.

[0078] To prepare a beverage, a portion capsule 1 is inserted into the brewing unit in the open position, and the brewing unit is closed. A first piercing means is moved from a retracted position to an extended position in a central area, preferably exactly in the middle, i.e., along the central axis 100. In doing so, the first piercing means pierces the lid film 6. For the sake of clarity, the beverage preparation machine and its components are not shown in the figures. For clarity, a detector 30 is shown only symbolically, which is arranged such that the identification code 8 can be read.

[0079] The first piercing means preferably comprises a hollow needle and / or an injection needle through which a liquid, in particular heated water under pressure, for example, between 5 and 20 bar, is injected into the cavity. The liquid flows through the beverage raw material and, in interaction with it, forms a beverage.

[0080] The beverage preparation machine preferably comprises a second piercing means, which particularly preferably comprises at least one piercing blade, in particular a plurality of piercing blades arranged in a ring, which are arranged in particular substantially along a circular ring near the flange 5. These piercing blades are moved from a retracted to an extended position so that they locally sever the lidding film 6, forming beverage outlet openings, and are moved back to the retracted position so as not to block the beverage outlet openings. The portion capsule 1 and / or the brewing unit is then rotated about the central capsule axis 100, preferably by a drive, for example an electric motor.To ensure the smoothest possible rotation and to save the user from having to pay attention to a predetermined orientation of the portion capsule during insertion, the portion capsule 1, and in particular the base element 2, are preferably designed to be rotationally symmetrical about the central axis 100. As a result, the liquid and / or beverage is conveyed outwardly by centrifugal forces toward the capsule wall 4 and then upwardly along the capsule wall 4. The finished beverage then exits through the beverage outlet openings and can be directed into a container, such as a cup, toward a beverage outlet of the beverage preparation machine.

[0081] Alternatively, or in addition to the lidding film 6, the base region 3 can be perforated in the closed position to create an opening for introducing liquid or discharging the beverage. This is particularly the case with beverage preparation machines that do not rely on centrifugation.

[0082] The portion capsule 1 according to the invention is not limited to the specific shape of the capsule body and / or the portion capsule 1 can also be used in other types of beverage preparation machines, for example those in which preparation is not carried out by centrifugation.

[0083] An optional filter medium can filter any particles of the beverage's raw material out of the beverage and retain them in the portion capsule 1. Preferably, the lidding film 6 functions as a filter element. Alternatively, the filter element is a separate element inserted into the portion capsule. Alternatively or additionally, the portion capsule can also include a liquid distribution element.

[0084] The portion capsule 1 now comprises an identification code 8 that can be detected, in particular optically, by a detector 30 of the beverage preparation machine. This identification code 8 preferably serves to identify the portion capsule 1 in the beverage preparation machine and / or to control brewing parameters. Thus, the beverage preparation machine can, for example, verify whether the portion capsule 1 inserted into the brewing chamber is a compatible portion capsule 1, and / or a suitable brewing program for the beverage raw material contained in the portion capsule 1 can be automatically selected and, if necessary, started. It is also conceivable that brewing parameters to be used, such as the water temperature, the water quantity, the water pressure, and / or the rotation speed of the portion capsule 1 during brewing, are embedded in the identification code 8 and read out by the detector 30.

[0085] The identification code 8 is, in particular, a machine-readable code in the form of a one-dimensional or multi-dimensional bit or barcode 8. The bit or barcode 8 is designed to be completely or partially circumferential as a circle or partial circle around the central axis A of the portion capsule 1. The individual adjacent bars from which the particularly two- or multi-colored bit or barcode 8 is constructed then preferably extend in the radial direction and are arranged next to one another in the circumferential direction.

[0086] In the portion capsules 1 known from the prior art, this identification code 8 is usually provided on the underside, i.e. on the side of the flange 5 facing away from the lidding film 6 and / or on the side of the flange 5 facing the base region 3. The identification code 8 can be provided only in one circumferential section, it can be provided in several, preferably evenly spaced, circumferential regions, or it can be provided completely circumferentially. The identification code 8 is preferably printed, embossed, or generated in another way that enables (optical) detection by a detector 30 of the beverage preparation machine.

[0087] A typical manufacturing process for a generic portion capsule, for example, involves printing an identification code 8 on the underside of the flange, and sealing the lidding film 6 to the flange 5 before or after this process. Sealing can directly destroy or damage the identification code 8 and / or impair the flange 5, for example, through mechanical impact, heat, pressure, and / or radiation, to such an extent that the structural quality, such as the surface roughness, of the flange 5 is adversely affected. This jeopardizes error-free detection of the identification code 8. Furthermore, such a manufacturing process makes environmentally friendly disposal of the portion capsule 1 more difficult, and the flange 5 cannot fulfill any additional functions, such as sealing.

[0088] It is therefore desirable not to provide the identification code 8 on the flange 5. According to the invention, the identification code 8 is not provided on the flange 5, and thus not on the base element 2, but on a separate support element 7. According to the embodiment shown here, this support element is essentially circular in shape, with an inner diameter corresponding to the inner diameter of the base element 2 at its open end 10, and with an outer diameter larger than the outer diameter of the cover element 6 and the flange 5.

[0089] According to the embodiment shown in Figure 1, the cover element 6 is arranged between the support element 7 and the flange 5. Preferably, the cover element 6 is arranged on the flange 5 with a detachable connection, for example a peel connection, and / or the cover element 6 is integrally connected to the support element 7, preferably with a detachable connection, in particular a peel connection.

[0090] Particularly preferably, the connection between the carrier element 7 and the lid element 6 is chosen to be stronger than the connection between the lid element 6 and the flange 5. In this way, it is possible for the user, after using the portion capsule 1, to grasp the carrier element 7 protruding outside beyond the flange 5 and to detach it together with the lid element 6 from the base element 2. Optionally, the carrier element 7 can then be separated from the lid element 6. Residues of the beverage raw material, for example moist coffee powder, can be manually removed from the cavity 20 and the components of the portion capsule 1 can be disposed of separately.

[0091] This is particularly advantageous if the base element 2, the lid element 6 and / or the carrier element 7 are made of recyclable, biodegradable and / or compostable materials.

[0092] The carrier element 7 has sufficient inherent rigidity so that the area having the identification code 8, which in particular protrudes completely beyond the flange 5 and can thus be read without problems by the detector 30, has a substantially horizontal extension.

[0093] In the present case, the cover element 6 has essentially the same outer diameter as the flange 5. This enables a maximum connection surface between the cover element 6 and the flange 5. The identification code 8 is preferably provided on the underside of the carrier element 7, i.e. in particular on the side facing the base region 3. The identification code 8 is, for example, printed on the carrier element 7 or embossed into it. The identification code 8 is thus preferably provided in the shape of a circular ring or at least in the shape of a segment of a circular ring, wherein the radial extent of the identification code 8 is less than the radial extent of the carrier element 7. The identification code 8 is particularly preferably provided at the radially outer end of the carrier element 7. The illustration in Figure 1 is merely schematic, and distances are shown larger than in reality for the sake of clarity.Thus, the identification code 8 preferably does not protrude vertically from the carrier element 7, and the distance between the identification code 8 and the flange 5 is at least smaller or nonexistent. The outer diameter of the carrier element 7 is also depicted larger, particularly in the drawing, relative to the outer diameter of the flange 5 than is actually intended.

[0094] Figure 2 shows a schematic cross-section of a portion capsule 1 according to an exemplary second embodiment of the present invention. The second embodiment essentially corresponds to the first embodiment explained in connection with Figure 1, which is why reference is generally made to the relevant explanations. In contrast to the first embodiment, however, here the carrier element 7 is provided between the lid element 6 and the flange 5. This makes it easier to separate the carrier element 7 together with the lid element 6 connected to it from the base element 2. The lid element 6 can, as shown here, continue to have essentially the same outer diameter as the flange 5, but the outer diameter of the lid element 6 can alternatively also have any value greater than the inner diameter and smaller than the outer diameter of the carrier element 7.This makes it possible, in particular, to adjust the strength of the connection between the support element 7 and the cover element 6.

[0095] During disposal, the carrier element 7 and the cover element 6 form a (particularly detachable) unit which is removed together from the base element 2.

[0096] Figure 3 shows a schematic cross section of a portion capsule 1 according to an exemplary third embodiment of the present invention. This third embodiment essentially corresponds to the first and second embodiments explained in connection with Figures 1 and 2, which is why reference is generally made to the relevant explanations. In contrast to the first and second embodiments, here the carrier element 7 is additionally designed as an insert, i.e. the carrier element extends transversely across the inner diameter of the base element 2, wherein the carrier element 7 is preferably, as shown here, vertically spaced from the lid element 6 at least in a region of the open end 10 of the base element 2. Here the carrier element 7 comprises, among other things, regions which extend in sections approximately parallel to the capsule wall 4 and can preferably be fastened to the latter.

[0097] The support element 7 preferably comprises a filter material and / or liquid passage openings in at least one central and / or outer region. The support element 7 is particularly preferably formed in one piece or in multiple pieces. This advantageously allows the support element 7 to fulfill additional functions, for example, acting as a filter and / or liquid distributor. The support element 7 is thus a multifunctional element.

[0098] Figure 4 shows a schematic cross-section of a portion capsule 1 according to an exemplary fourth embodiment of the present invention. This fourth embodiment essentially corresponds to the first to third embodiments explained in connection with Figures 1-3, which is why reference is generally made to the relevant explanations. The embodiment shown here is particularly similar to the second embodiment, although here the carrier element 7 has a smaller inner diameter than the flange 5, as a result of which an annular region of the carrier element 7 protrudes inward into the cavity 20. This region can be shaped or deformed during the manufacture of the portion capsule 1 such that it runs, at least in sections, essentially parallel to the capsule wall 4.In particular, the carrier element 7 can be fastened to the capsule wall 4 in this area, in particular via a materially bonded but detachable connection. This connection can be provided in addition to or alternatively to a connection to the flange 5. Especially when a detachable connection, such as a detachable adhesive connection and / or a peel connection, is provided to enable good disposal of the components of the portion capsule 1, it can be advantageous to provide a further connection area in addition to the overlap area between the flange 5 and the carrier element 7 in order to still ensure a reliable and aroma-tight closure of the portion capsule 1. Figure 5 shows a schematic cross-section of a portion capsule 1 according to an exemplary fifth embodiment of the present invention during disposal of the portion capsule 1.This fifth embodiment essentially corresponds to the first to fourth embodiments explained in connection with Figures 1-4, which is why reference is generally made to the relevant explanations. The embodiment shown here is particularly similar to the second embodiment, whereby in the left-hand area it is shown schematically how, after use of the portion capsule 1 in a beverage preparation machine, the carrier element 7 together with the lid element 6 attached thereto has been detached from the base element 2, in particular the flange 5. To do this, the user can grasp a protruding part of the carrier element 7 and pull this upwards away from the flange 5. The remaining beverage raw material can then be removed from the cavity 20 and, for example, sent for composting, and optionally the lid element 6 orThe lidding film 6 can be separated from the carrier element 7 in order to dispose of these components separately. This is particularly advantageous if the lid element 6 has an aluminum layer, while the carrier element 7 is made of a biodegradable and / or (home) compostable material.

[0099] The carrier element 7 thus increases the environmental friendliness of the portion capsule 1. Since the carrier element 7 protrudes beyond the flange 5 so that the identification code 8 can be detected, no separate tab is required. Optionally, the carrier element 7 and / or the lid element 6 has at least one such tab to simplify separation.

[0100] Figure 6 shows a schematic cross-section of a portion capsule 1 according to an exemplary sixth embodiment of the present invention. This sixth embodiment essentially corresponds to the first to fifth embodiments explained in connection with Figures 1-5, which is why reference is generally made to the relevant explanations. In particular, the embodiment shown here can be combined with the previously explained embodiments. Here, the flange 5 comprises a sealing element 9. This is designed here, for example, as a circumferential, annular projection, in particular with a substantially triangular radial cross-section. However, this is to be understood as representative of a plurality of integrally or separately designed sealing elements 9.For example, the sealing element can be a circular sealing element 9, for example made of a cellulose-containing material and / or a material that swells upon contact with liquid, which is fixed to the flange 5, or it can be a plurality of sealing projections, or an elastically deformable material that is applied to the flange 5, in particular by means of a material bond. Those skilled in the art will understand that the type, shape, size, and position of such sealing elements 9 depend on the part of the system that cooperates sealingly with the flange 5.

[0101] Beverage preparation machine, especially the associated brewing chamber part.

[0102] Figure 7 shows a schematic cross-section of a portion capsule 1 according to an exemplary seventh embodiment of the present invention. This seventh embodiment essentially corresponds to the first to sixth embodiments explained in connection with Figures 1-6, which is why reference is generally made to the relevant explanations. In contrast to these embodiments, the base element 2 here is hemispherical, so that the base region 3 merges smoothly into the capsule wall 4. Such a shape is particularly advantageous for use in centrifugation-based beverage preparation machines.

[0103] List of reference symbols

[0104] 1 portion capsule

[0105] 2 Base element 3 Floor area

[0106] 4 Capsule wall

[0107] 5 Flange

[0108] 6 Lid element, lid film

[0109] 7 Carrier element 8 Identification code, barcode

[0110] 9 Sealing element

[0111] 10 open ending

[0112] 20 Cavity 30 Detector

[0113] 100 Central axis, capsule axis

Claims

PATENT CLAIMS 1. Portion capsule (1) for preparing a beverage with a beverage preparation machine, wherein the portion capsule (1) has a base element (2) with a cavity (20) for receiving a beverage raw material and a lid element (6) closing the cavity (20), wherein the base element (2) comprises a bottom region (3), a capsule wall (4) extending from the bottom region (3) to an open end (10), and a flange (5) surrounding the open end (10), wherein the portion capsule (1) has a detectable identification code (8), characterized in that the portion capsule (1) comprises a separately formed carrier element (7), wherein the carrier element (7) has the identification code (8), wherein the carrier element (7) is arranged on the side of the flange (5) facing away from the bottom region (3).

2. Portion capsule (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the carrier element (7) is arranged on the side of the lid element (6) facing away from the flange (5).

3. Portion capsule (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the carrier element (7) is arranged at least partially between the flange (5) and the lid element (6).

4. Portion capsule (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the carrier element (7) is an insert which extends at least partially below the lid element (6) radially in the direction of a central capsule axis (100), wherein the insert preferably fills the entire inner cross section of the base element (2).

5. Portion capsule (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the base element (2), the carrier element (7) and / or the lid element (6) consists of a recyclable, biodegradable and / or compostable, in particular home compostable, material, in particular aluminum and / or a material comprising plant fibers and / or at least one polymer.

6. Portion capsule (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the carrier element (7) has an inner diameter which is smaller than or equal to the inner diameter of the base element (2) in the region of the flange (5).

7. Portion capsule (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the carrier element (7) has an outer diameter which is larger than the outer diameter of the flange (5), so that the carrier element (7) projects radially outwards beyond the flange (5), in particular uniformly along the circumference.

8. Portion capsule (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the carrier element (7) has an outer diameter which is greater than or equal to the outer diameter of the lid element (6).

9. Portion capsule (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the carrier element (7) is semi-rigid or rigid.

10. Portion capsule (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the carrier element (7) is detachably connected, preferably materially, in particular by means of a peel connection, to the lid element (6) and / or the flange (5).

11. Portion capsule (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the carrier element (7) is connected both to the lid element (6) and to the flange (5), wherein the connection between the carrier element (7) and the lid element (6) is at least partially stronger than the connection between the carrier element (7) and the flange (5).

12. Portion capsule (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the connection between the carrier element (7) and the flange (5) and / or the lid element (6) is formed with different strengths along the circumference, wherein the connection preferably has a weakened area in at least one circumferential section.

13. Portion capsule (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the base element (3), the carrier element (7) and / or the lid element (6) are rotationally symmetrical about a central capsule axis (100).

14. Portion capsule (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the carrier element (7) has at least one, in particular flexible, tab section.

15. Portion capsule (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the carrier element (7) is a ring element, in particular annular.

16. Portion capsule (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the identification code (8) is electrically, optically, magnetically and / or mechanically detectable.

17. Portion capsule (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the identification code (8) is provided at least on one side of the carrier element (7) facing the base region (3) of the portion capsule (1).

18. Portion capsule (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the identification code (8) is provided radially outwardly on the carrier element (7).

19. Portion capsule (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the identification code (8) is provided on the carrier element (7) at least in sections, in particular along the entire circumference of the carrier element (7).

20. Portion capsule (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the carrier element (7) comprises a radially inner region which extends at least in sections along the inner side of the capsule wall (4) facing the cavity (20) and is preferably fastened thereto.

21. Portion capsule (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the base element (2) is substantially frustoconical and / or dome-shaped, wherein in particular the inner diameter increases from the bottom region (3) towards the open end (10).

22. Portion capsule (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that on the side of the flange (5) and / or the carrier element (7) facing the base region (3) at least one sealing element (9) is arranged, which is designed to effect a sealing effect against liquid together with a brewing chamber of the beverage preparation machine receiving the portion capsule (1).

23. Portion capsule (1) according to claim 22, characterized in that the sealing element (9) is formed separately from the base element (2) and / or the carrier element (7), formed integrally with the base element (2) and / or the carrier element (7), or formed integrally with the base element (2) and / or the carrier element (7).

24. Portion capsule (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the portion capsule (1) comprises at least one filter element and / or at least one liquid distribution element, wherein the filter element and / or the liquid distribution element is arranged in the cavity (20), in particular in the bottom region (3) of the portion capsule (1).

25. Portion capsule (1) according to claim 24, characterized in that the filter element and / or the liquid distribution element is fixed to the base region (3) and / or the capsule wall in a form-fitting, force-fitting and / or material-fitting manner.

26. A beverage preparation system comprising a beverage preparation machine and a portion capsule (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the beverage preparation machine has a brewing chamber accommodating the portion capsule (1), wherein the beverage preparation machine has a detector (30) for detecting the detectable identification code (8), wherein the detector is arranged in particular in the brewing chamber.

27. Beverage preparation system according to claim 26, characterized in that the brewing chamber has a first brewing chamber part and a second brewing chamber part, which are movable relative to each other between an open position in which a portion capsule (1) can be inserted into the brewing chamber, and a closed position in which a beverage preparation can be carried out.

28. Beverage preparation system according to claim 27, characterized in that the first brewing chamber part has a first piercing means, in particular movable between a retracted position and an extended position, wherein the first piercing means, in particular in the extended position, pierces the lid element (6) of the portion capsule (1), wherein the first piercing means preferably comprises a hollow needle through which a pressurized liquid can be supplied to the cavity of the portion capsule (1) in the extended position.

29. Beverage preparation system according to one of claims 27 or 28, characterized in that the second brewing chamber part comprises a second piercing means, in particular movable between a retracted position and an extended position, wherein the second piercing means is designed such that it perforates the lid element (6) in a region radially spaced from the central axis, in particular provided in the vicinity of the flange (5), or the base region (3) to form at least one beverage outlet.

30. Beverage preparation system according to one of claims 26-29, characterized in that the cover element (6) comprises a circumferential perforated and / or porous beverage outlet area arranged in particular near and radially inside the flange (5).

31. Beverage preparation system according to one of claims 26-30, characterized in that the brewing chamber for beverage preparation is designed to be rotatable about a central capsule axis (100) in order to guide the beverage out of the portion capsule (1) by centrifugal forces.

32. Beverage preparation system according to one of claims 26-31, characterized in that the detector (30) is designed for electrical, optical and / or magnetic detection of the identification code (8).

33. Beverage preparation system according to one of claims 26-32, characterized in that the detector (30) is provided to detect the identification code (8) of the portion capsule (1) in an open position of the brewing chamber, in an at least partially open position of the brewing chamber and / or during a movement of the brewing chamber, in particular a relative movement of the first brewing chamber part and / or second brewing chamber part to each other.

34. Use of a portion capsule (1) according to one of claims 1-25 for preparing a beverage with the aid of a beverage preparation machine, in particular in a beverage preparation system according to one of claims 26-33.

35. A method for producing a portion capsule (1) according to any one of claims 1-25, wherein in a first step a base element (2), a carrier element (7) and a lid element (6), wherein the base element (2) comprises a bottom region (3), a capsule wall (4) extending from the bottom region (3) to an open end (10) and a flange (5) surrounding the open end (10) and forms a cavity (20) for receiving a beverage raw material, wherein the carrier element (7) has a detectable identification code (8), wherein in a second step the cavity (20) is filled with the beverage raw material, wherein in a third step the carrier element (7) is connected to the lid element (6) and / or the carrier element (7) is connected to the base element (2), in particular the flange (5), and / or the cover element (6) is connected to the base element (2), in particular the flange (5), wherein the carrier element (7) is arranged on the side of the flange (5) facing away from the base region (3).

36. Method according to claim 35, wherein the carrier element (7) and / or the cover element (9) is connected to the base element (2), in particular the flange (5), by means of a detachable connection, preferably a detachable material connection, in particular a peel connection.

Images