Coffee compaction process and compacted coffee tablets for extraction by pressurized flow

Abstract

The present invention discloses an industrial process for the compaction of roast and ground coffee by pressurized flow at flow pressures greater than 5 bar to obtain compacted coffee tablets (1) suitable for preparing coffee-based beverages, including espresso-type beverages, which exhibits advantageous characteristics in terms of extraction effectiveness and shape retention of the compacted coffee tablets, as well as production efficiency and capacity. The present invention further discloses compacted coffee tablets (1) suitable for preparing coffee-based beverages and which exhibit advantageous characteristics in terms of coffee extraction effectiveness by pressurized extraction flow.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention refers to an industrial process for the manufacture of compacted tablets for preparing beverages, in particular tablets of roast and ground coffee beans adapted to prepare beverages by extraction by pressurized flow, and to compacted tablets for preparing beverages with the characteristics resulting from said process. [Background technology]

[0002] Background of the Invention The prior art contains several documents relating to processes for the production of compacted coffee single portions, generally designated by compacted coffee tablets for use in the preparation of coffee-based beverages, which mention several challenges associated with this type of process for compacting coffee, in particular due to the physicochemical characteristics of coffee and the relative size of the coffee particles to be compacted.

[0003] Compaction of a particular amount of roast and ground coffee beans presents several challenges that are primarily related to the physicochemical characteristics of the pre-roasted and ground coffee beans, including the release of volatile gases, oils and also the size of the ground coffee beans.

[0004] In this context, the reader should also be familiar with the fact that there are different types of coffee, including soluble coffee, which is mainly used to prepare coffee by percolation, and roast and ground coffee, which is mainly used to prepare espresso-type coffee. These two types of coffee present different physicochemical properties related to the compaction process, and some of the prior art addresses the problem of compacting tablets of soluble coffee, or extraction by percolation, i.e., by flow at or above ambient pressure and below 5 bar.

[0005] For example, document EP 2 154 987 B1 discloses a method for producing compacted coffee tablets suitable for use in filter coffee machines, i.e., with ambient pressure flow. In this case, the compaction pressure must be comprised between 70 and 130 bar. Before compaction, the roasted and ground coffee beans may have a relative moisture content of 2 to 8%. The resulting coffee tablets may have a hardness ranging from 30 to 55 N and a weight of 2 to 15 g, the hardness of the coffee tablet being designed for its disintegration at a defined time and in a given manner.

[0006] The present invention addresses the particular problem of compacted coffee tablets for preparing beverages by extraction with pressurized flow at flow pressures above 5 bar and optionally at flow pressures comprised between 5 and 20 bar, preferably between 10 and 15 bar.

[0007] The compaction of single portions of roast and ground coffee constitutes a different and unique type of problem, as it can be determined by the different specific characteristics of the roast and ground coffee beans, including the residual moisture and dependence on the particle size and relative distribution of particle sizes after the coffee beans are pulled, and these characteristics have a relatively significant effect on the compaction process.

[0008] In this case, there are several physical parameters that can play an important role during the beverage preparation itself, such as maintaining the shape of the compacted tablet, promoting or limiting its physical degradation, and improving a given type of interaction between the respective coffee quantity and the fluid.

[0009] Some of these aspects have particular relevance in the case of coffee, such as espresso type, where the compacted tablets must be subjected to a pressurized flow with a flow pressure of more than 5 bar, preferably more than 10 bar.

[0010] In this regard, particle size, moisture content as well as the degree of roasting of the ground coffee beans are parameters that can influence the compaction result.

[0011] The prior art contains references to the deaeration problem, as for example mentioned in document Canadian Patent No. 808588A, which discloses the possibility of making compacted tablets of roast and ground coffee beans.

[0012] Document EP 0 229 920 B1 discloses a process for making coffee tablets by compacting a mass of ground and roasted coffee bean particles with a moisture content of at least 3% by mass, in particular 3% to 6%, with 4% being preferred, and an average particle size of 0.4 mm to 2.0 mm, in particular 0.6 mm to 1.2 mm. Compaction of the coffee mass is carried out by applying a pressure comprised between 20.7 and 48.3 MPa, with a value of 39.5 MPa being preferred. The process further comprises coating the outside of the compacted tablet with an edible material dispersible in water, said coating comprising wetting with an aqueous liquid and applying a dry solid.

[0013] Document WO 2004 / 034797 A1 discloses a process for the production of compacted coffee tablets, which includes a step of cooling before compression in a rotary press.

[0014] Document EP 2129232 B1 discloses a process for the compaction of powdered vegetables, which comprises only one step of compaction including a pressing period, the powder used for compaction being roast and ground coffee exhibiting a moisture content of 3 to 10% by weight and an average size of 0.2 to 3 mm, preferably 0.4 to 2 mm.

[0015] Documents EP 3081092 B1 and EP 2416665 B1 disclose roast and ground coffee tablets that are also suitable for extracting coffee by dripping, i.e., by flow at atmospheric pressure. In this case, the tablets are obtained by a process comprising two compression stages, in particular a first so-called pre-compression stage at a pressure between 36.1 MPa and 84.8 MPa, followed by a subsequent compression stage, the value of the pressure applied in the pre-compression stage being between 20% and 100% of the compression pressure. The compacted coffee tablets must exhibit a hardness greater than 30 N and a friability less than 10%.

[0016] Document WO 2008 / 123775 A1 discloses a method for making coffee tablets and coffee tablets obtained by said method, which may have a generally irregular shape.

[0017] Regarding the critical steps of the process, documents US 9,474,290 B2 and US 9,756,869 B2 disclose a process for the manufacture of compacted tablets of roast and ground coffee adapted for extraction in a drip coffee machine, albeit in two stages: the coffee tablets are compacted so that they easily disintegrate when subjected to hot water at ambient pressure during extraction.

[0018] In particular, the process involves the steps of pre-compression at a pressure of 10.6 MPa to 63.6 MPa and compression at a pressure of 63 to 169.7 MPa, both steps being carried out in the same compaction die to produce tablets with a hardness of at least 30 N. Greater tablet hardness must in fact be associated with greater structural vulnerability to bursting.

[0019] Furthermore, the literature discloses that a delay period of 80 to 900 milliseconds is considered between pre-compression and main compression, with the total period from pre-compression to main compression being approximately 0.1 to 1 second. The delay period and timing established must also be related to minimizing dimensional variations in the compacted tablets, such as as a result of expansion of the compaction volume.

[0020] Document WO 2010 / 137965 A1 refers to capsules containing 5 to 6.5 grams of roasted and ground coffee beans, this amount being compacted with a compaction force comprised between 50 and 800 N, preferably between 400 and 600 N.

[0021] Document WO 2020 / 089403 A1 discloses a coffee container containing a cake of roast and ground coffee that can be consolidated by applying a compression force comprised between 0.5 kN and 15 kN, preferably between 1 kN and 10 kN.

[0022] Documents WO 2021 / 118376 A1 and WO 2021 / 118377 A1 have been filed by the applicant of the present invention and are directed to compacted coffee tablets. Among other aspects, said documents refer to the application of a compaction force comprised between 4 and 6 kN, preferably between 4.5 and 5.5 kN, so as to obtain compacted tablets with a hardness comprised between 10 and 20 N, preferably between 13 and 17 N.

[0023] It should be noted that tests carried out have shown that applying too high a compaction force can lead to crushing of the roast and ground coffee bean particles and a relatively hard compacted tablet, and that this result can restrict the flux of the pressurized flow through the compacted tablet, thus reducing the effectiveness of the extraction. Furthermore, there are several aspects that can affect the productivity of the manufacturing process on an industrial scale, including in terms of production capacity and waste rates as a result of defects and losses. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0024] Summary of the Invention It is an object of the present invention to provide a process for the manufacture of compacted coffee tablets for preparing coffee-based beverages, which comprises a step of compacting roast and ground coffee tablets, the tablets being adapted to exhibit better structural and operational characteristics in terms of preparing coffee-based beverages, including espresso-type coffee, by pressurized flow. [Means for solving the problem]

[0025] The best structural features include resistance to bursting and disintegration, which can be detrimental to handling of the tablets, and minimization of dimensional variations after application of compaction forces, which can be detrimental to subsequent individual packaging of the coffee tablets.

[0026] The best operational characteristics include providing sufficient porosity to allow pressurized flow along the dominant direction without substantial obstruction, as well as greater productivity of the process with greater production capacity and less waste.

[0027] This object is solved according to the invention by the process according to claim 1.

[0028] The process according to the invention comprises successive compaction cycles in a compaction machine with no interruption intervals between cycles, each compaction cycle comprising the steps set out in claim 1.

[0029] In particular, it is an object of the present invention to provide a coffee tablet that is adapted to better extract a compacted coffee quantity when subjected to a pressurized flow.

[0030] A first aspect of the present invention is the feeding of roast and ground coffee beans for compaction at a Hausner index of less than 1.30 to provide good flowability of the edible substance, i.e., roast and ground coffee beans, and to minimize its tendency to gather in larger sized portions, for example as a result of the adhesive action of coffee oils released during the compaction operation. This parameter range of the Hausner index offers the possibility to feed individual amounts of edible substance of 5 to 7 g by mass to each individual compaction support of a compaction machine in a more reliable manner and at a relatively fast delivery rate.

[0031] The second set of relevant characteristics are those of the main characteristics of the coffee tablet obtained with a view to its use in the process of extraction of espresso type coffee or the like.

[0032] In this sense, the coffee tablet exhibits a hardness after compaction that corresponds to less grinding of the particles of the roast and ground coffee beans originally fed into the compaction device so as to substantially unrestrict the liquid passage through the body of the compacted tablet.

[0033] According to tests carried out by the applicant, the compacted coffee tablets should exhibit a hardness comprised between 4N and 30N, preferably between 5N and 20N, particularly preferably between 6N and 18N.

[0034] In the case of the first embodiment, it is preferred if the coffee tablet exhibits a hardness comprised between 4 and 10N, preferably between 5 and 8N, particularly preferably between 5 and 7N.

[0035] In the case of the second embodiment, it is preferred if the coffee tablet exhibits a hardness comprised between 10 and 20N, preferably between 12 and 18N, particularly preferably between 14 and 18N.

[0036] In the context of the present invention, the compacted coffee tablets should furthermore exhibit a compressed density comprised between 0.15 g / ml and 1.0 g / ml, preferably between 0.30 g / ml and 0.75 g / ml, this range corresponding to the most advantageous values ​​with regard to the possibility of having a pressurized flow through the compacted tablet without the risk of blockage.

[0037] The combination of these two parameters is particularly advantageous in the context of the present invention.

[0038] Furthermore, it is advantageous when said amount of ground coffee corresponds to coffee granules exhibiting a particle size distribution in which at least 90% of the particles have a size comprised between 100 μm and 3000 μm, preferably in which at least 85% of the particles have an average size comprised between 250 μm and 2000 μm.

[0039] It is particularly advantageous when said amount of roast and ground coffee is comprised between 4 and 8 grams, preferably between 5 and 7 grams, particularly preferably between 5.3 and 6.7 grams.

[0040] The compacted tablets may exhibit a moisture content comprised between 1 and 5% by weight, preferably between 2 and 4% by weight.

[0041] A related object of the present invention is to provide coffee tablets with greater dimensional stability, such as a smaller increase in volume after compaction, with the value and distribution of the compaction force as well as other parameters relating to the handling and effectiveness of extraction of compacted coffee tablets by pressurized flow at flow pressures greater than 5 bar determining this behavior to the greatest extent.

[0042] Indeed, the application of compaction forces has particular relevance in the case of compaction of roast and ground coffee beans as well.

[0043] The process according to the invention may comprise the successive compaction of individual quantities of roast and ground coffee beans by applying a normal reciprocal force with a compaction force value comprised between 5 kN and 50 kN.

[0044] The process may involve applying a compaction force of less than 50 kN, including a first step of pre-compaction at a first compaction force.

[0045] The process can include a first step of pre-compaction at a first compaction force followed by a second step of compaction at a second compaction force, the first compaction force being greater than the second compaction force.

[0046] The process may involve the sequential application of two compaction forces, both of which are less than 40 kN and preferably greater than 5 kN.

[0047] In particular, the process may include a first compaction force of less than 20 kN to reduce any increase in volume of the compacted coffee tablet that may occur after compaction.

[0048] The process may include applying a first compaction force that may be at least two times greater than the second compaction force.

[0049] A further object associated with the present invention is to provide a compacted coffee tablet exhibiting a given amount of roast and ground coffee that exhibits better physical properties in terms of extraction effectiveness and physical stability of the compacted tablet.

[0050] This object is solved according to the invention by a compacted coffee tablet as claimed in claim 14.

[0051] The compacted coffee tablets are preferably obtained by a process according to any one of claims 1 to 13.

[0052] Text description of the illustration image022.gif. The invention will be explained in more detail below on the basis of preferred embodiments and the accompanying drawings, which are shown in simplified schematic diagram form. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0053] [Figure 1] 1A and 1B are top and side views of a prior art compacted tablet. [Figure 2] 1 is a flow diagram of a compaction process for a prior art compacted tablet. [Figure 3] 1 is a schematic diagram of a compaction machine (1) in a process according to the invention. [Figure 4] 1 shows a side view and a top view of a compaction machine (1) in a process according to the invention. [Figure 5] 1 is a flow diagram of an embodiment of a process according to the present invention. [Figure 6] 1 is a flow diagram of an embodiment of a process according to the present invention. [Figure 7] 1 is a diagram of a first point in the process of compaction of a compacted tablet (1) according to the invention. [Figure 8] 1 is a diagram of a second point in the process of compaction of a compacted tablet (1) according to the invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0054] Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments of the Invention The process according to the invention refers to the production of a compacted coffee tablet (1) adapted for use in the brewing device of a beverage preparation machine for preparing coffee-based beverages, in particular espresso-type coffee.

[0055] The compaction process involves pre-ground and roasted coffee beans being compacted into an initial quantity of edible material (Q i The present invention relates to the manufacture of a compacted coffee tablet (1) of granules of an edible material generally comprising pre-ground and roasted coffee beans so as to represent at least a majority part of the total weight of the granules.

[0056] The edible material initially provided for compaction is: - roast and ground coffee beans, including those exhibiting a light roast, or a dark roast, or a medium roast, or a mixture of at least one of light, medium, and dark roast; - A mixture of roasted and ground coffee beans with another granular edible substance Contains one of the following:

[0057] In particular, the process includes providing an edible substance that may comprise at least 75%, preferably at least 85%, by mass fraction of roast and ground coffee beans.

[0058] FIG. 1 represents an embodiment of a coffee tablet (1) and a compaction process of this type previously disclosed by the author and therefore part of the prior art.

[0059] The compacted coffee tablet (1) has a total width (D T ) and a cross section with a generally symmetrical shape relative to the central longitudinal axis (XX).

[0060] The compacted coffee tablet (1) may present an upstream-oriented portion and a downstream-oriented portion relative to the predominant flow direction, and may further present an intermediate portion between said upstream- and downstream-oriented portions extending along said entire width for at least most of its extension along the predominant flow direction.

[0061] The compacted coffee tablet (1) may comprise a downstream cavity (B) which is centrally arranged and which, along part of the transverse dimension of said downstream portion, presents a downstream cavity (B) which, when viewed in cross section, extends in a curved plane, such that the outer peripheral region of said downstream cavity (B) presents a portion which extends along a plane which is at least approximately transverse to the outer peripheral region of said downstream portion.

[0062] As depicted in FIG. 2, the prior art process involves placing an initial amount of edible material (Q i ) and adding the initial quantity (Q i ) and ejecting it from the compaction receptacle.

[0063] According to the prior art, the compacted coffee tablets (1) obtained from the compaction prior art process can exhibit a hardness comprised between 4 and 30 N.

[0064] However, through further tests, the Applicant has proven that it is advantageous to obtain coffee tablets (1) with a hardness preferably comprised in at least one of the intervals 4-10 N, 10-16 N and 16-22 N, as will be explained in more detail further below.

[0065] The process includes providing a compaction machine (2) adapted for compacting a tablet particulate food material, such as a tablet form.

[0066] The compaction machine (2) presents a plurality of individual collection openings (21) in a compaction die (20) operable to interact with compaction punches (22, 23).

[0067] The compaction machine (2) is advantageously a compaction die (20) comprising at least 10, preferably at least 20, particularly preferably at least 30 individual collection openings (21) operable by a plurality of compaction punches (22, 23), and wherein individual quantities (Q i ) and a compaction die (20) adapted to provide at least generally simultaneous compaction of the

[0068] The compaction machine (2) may be a rotary tablet compaction machine as shown diagrammatically in FIG.

[0069] The compaction machine (2), in this case, presents a compaction die (20) including a rotor operable to rotate about a vertical axis and a plurality of individual collection openings (21) that may be operatively associated with pairs of compaction punches (22, 23) arranged along a circular alignment. The compaction machine (2) may exhibit moving guides for the top and bottom punches (22, 23) that move together in a coordinated manner to act on the individual collection openings (21) of the compaction die (20) with a compaction force (F). The compaction die (20) may be disposed between the top and bottom die guides and may be constructed as a single piece or may include a plurality of individual segments or molds.

[0070] The compaction punches (22, 23) can be arranged in pairs in the vertical direction and configured to be operable in a reciprocating motion downward and upward along the vertical direction, thereby applying a predetermined compaction force (F) to the granular contents previously provided in the respective collection openings (21) of the compaction die (20).

[0071] The process preferably involves at least approximately simultaneous multiple individual quantities (Q i ), wherein the relative positions of the compaction punches (22, 23) and the time of application of the compaction force (F) may vary between successive individual collection openings (21) of the compaction die (20).

[0072] The reader is aware of other details of this type of compaction machine in the prior art, so a more detailed description thereof will not be given.

[0073] Furthermore, the process involves the addition of individual quantities (Q) of edible substances exhibiting bulk densities comprised between 0.250 g / ml and 0.500 g / ml, preferably between 0.300 g / ml and 0.400 g / ml. i ) of roast and ground coffee beans at the particle size distribution value considered. i It has been experimentally determined that the compaction set (20) has advantages over the compaction set (20) with respect to the reliability and flowability of the regulation of the supply of the compaction die (20).

[0074] Furthermore, the compaction cycle is adjusted so that said supply of compacted coffee tablets (1) by the compaction machines (2) represents a debit of at least 10,000 units per hour for each compaction set, preferably at least 25,000 units per hour for each compaction set, i.e. for each compaction machine (2).

[0075] The process according to the invention involves the collection of individual quantities (Q) occurring at least approximately simultaneously but associated with different individual collection openings (21) of the compaction die (20) of the compaction machine (2). i ), activating compacting forces (F1, F2) and ejecting the compacted coffee tablet (1).

[0076] Before the aforementioned step, and into the individual collection openings (21) of the compaction die (20) individual quantities (Q i ), the process - a step of qualitative or quantitative characterization of at least one parameter related to the degree of roasting and a parameter related to the size of the coffee granules, - quantitative characterization of the relative moisture content of the roast and ground coffee beans to be compacted; It may include at least one of:

[0077] In particular, the process may include characterizing the degree of roast, the roast color of the roasted coffee beans, and may include identifying the type of grinder and grind size used, or measuring the particle size distribution.

[0078] The compacted coffee tablet (1) obtained by the process according to the invention is able to withstand the circulation of a pressurized extraction flow at pressures comprised between 5 bar and 20 bar along a predominant flow direction perpendicular to the characteristic dimension (D) of the coffee tablet (1) without its decomposition or dissolution when subjected to the action of the pressurized extraction flow.

[0079] Further considering the operating speed of the compaction, the step of ejecting the compacted coffee tablets (1) from the compaction machine (2) should be considered important along with other efficiency aspects, particularly to mitigate the risk of the coffee tablets (1) tearing.

[0080] Figure 4 shows diagrammatically the discharge arrangement downstream of the outlet of the compacted coffee tablets (1) from the compaction machine (2).

[0081] After application of the compacting force, the process according to the invention comprises a step of ejection of the compacted coffee tablets (1) by an ejection arrangement (4) configured to induce a reduction in the ejection speed of the tablets (1) by at least 70% along a 50 cm extension, preferably by at least 90% along a 50 cm extension, without collision with other previously ejected coffee tablets (1).

[0082] The discharge arrangement (4) may comprise a sliding support presenting an extension of at least 0.5 m, preferably at least 1 m and at most 2 m, in order to reduce the speed and preferably also bring the compacted coffee tablets (1) to rest. It is preferred if the sliding support presents a surface with a material and / or surface finish adapted to facilitate said reduction in speed and resting.

[0083] The discharge arrangement (4) may present a horizontal sliding support, not shown in the figures, or a first extension adjacent to and inclined upwardly relative to the outlet of the compaction machine (2).

[0084] The discharge arrangement (4) may be operatively associated with a rear collection and / or transport station for the coffee tablets (1), which is also not shown in the figures.

[0085] 5 and 6 represent a preferred embodiment of the process according to the present invention.

[0086] The edible material to be compacted is divided into individual quantities (Q i) is supplied in each consolidation cycle by a filling arrangement (30) adapted to supply the mixture to a plurality of individual collection openings of the consolidation die (20), said plurality of individual collection openings corresponding to a portion, preferably a smaller portion, of the total number of individual collection openings of the consolidation die (20).

[0087] According to one embodiment, the individual quantities (Q i ) comprises sequentially feeding a plurality of, at least 15, preferably at least 20 individual compaction supports (21) in each compaction cycle, and distributing individual amounts (Q) to the plurality of individual supports (20). i The continuous supply of is preferably carried out in a period of less than 1 second, particularly preferably less than 0.5 seconds.

[0088] Individual quantities (Q i ) may comprise at least generally simultaneous provision of a portion of a plurality of individual consolidated supports (21), preferably at least two, more preferably at least four individual consolidated supports (21).

[0089] The loading arrangement (30) is provided in operative connection with a first supply arrangement (31) configured to collect an upstream quantity of edible substance.

[0090] According to one embodiment, the first supply arrangement (31) has a length of 1 m 3 Less than 0.5m, preferably 3 The volume of the first feed arrangement (31) preferably further presents an aspect ratio between height and width of less than 8:1, preferably less than 5:1.

[0091] In this connection, it is advantageous to provide at least one second supply arrangement (32) upstream of the first supply arrangement (31) and to configure the control means of the process so that the rate of supply of the first arrangement (31) by the second supply arrangement (32) is at least approximately equal to the discharge rate of the edible substance from the first supply arrangement (31) to the filling arrangement (30), so that a reference amount of edible substance can be maintained in the first supply arrangement (31).

[0092] Considering that roast and ground coffee beans present oils and some moisture, the aforementioned characteristics advantageously result in adhesion and / or partial consolidation of the portions in the downstream part of the first feeding arrangement (31) as a result of the weight accumulated on top of said portions, and thereby the individual quantities (Q i ) contributes to mitigating the potential for greater difficulties in supplying

[0093] Individual quantities for compaction (Q i ) is provided by providing a plurality of individual quantities (Q ) of edible substance in a total mass of 4.5 to 12.5 g, preferably 5.0 to 12.0 g. i ) can be adjusted to provide

[0094] Individual quantities for compaction (Q i ) is supplied at the following intervals: - the mass contained in 4.8 to 7.2 g of the first type of coffee tablet (1), - The mass of the second type of coffee tablet (1) contained in 8.0 to 12.0 g can be adjusted to one of

[0095] Individual quantities for compaction (Q i ) is preferably provided along a direction perpendicular to each of the plurality of individual collection openings (21) of the compaction die (20). i It is further preferred when the feeding of the powder (20) is carried out at a feeding distance of less than 1 mm, preferably less than 0.5 mm, above the feeding opening of the individual collection opening (21) of the compaction die (20) in the top region of said opening.

[0096] The individual quantities of edible substances (Q i ) to less than 5%, preferably less than 3% in each compaction cycle, i It is particularly advantageous when the supply of the powder (22) is provided from a supply chamber that is directly connected to at least one of the plurality of individual collection openings (21) of the compaction die (20), preferably to an individual collection opening (21) of the compaction die (20).

[0097] The object of the present invention is to provide a process whereby a compacted coffee tablet (1) exhibits enhanced mechanical resistance and at the same time flow permeability, suitable for the preparation of coffee-based beverages, including espresso-type coffee, by the action of a pressurized fluid flow on the coffee tablet (1) without the coffee tablet (1) breaking or releasing any part of it.

[0098] As represented in the diagram of FIG. 5, the process according to the present invention involves the production of predetermined individual quantities (Q i ) into a compaction receptacle (22) and applying a compaction force (F) comprised between 5 kN and 50 kN.

[0099] In this regard, it should be noted that the compaction force (F), together with other parameters such as the average particle size, the relative moisture content, etc., determines to a large extent the hardness and porosity, and therefore the permeability, of the compacted coffee tablet (1).

[0100] In general, in order to obtain good coffee extraction without rupture or decomposition of the compacted coffee tablet (1), it is advantageous when the latter, on the one hand, exhibits as reduced a hardness as possible and at the same time a porosity, quantified by the compaction density, which allows a pressurized flow, and, on the other hand, a hardness within an interval of values ​​sufficient to ensure that it maintains its shape without breaking when the pressurized flow acts on it at the time of extraction of the espresso coffee beverage.

[0101] In this context, and according to tests carried out using the intervals of the particle size distribution of coffee beans mentioned in the description of the invention, it is advantageous when the coffee tablet (1) exhibits a hardness comprised between 4 and 30 N.

[0102] In the case of the first preferred embodiment, it has been determined experimentally that the hardness preferably presents values ​​comprised between 13N and 25N, particularly preferably between 16 and 22N, in order to obtain the best extraction results.

[0103] According to the second embodiment, it has been experimentally determined that the hardness preferably exhibits values ​​comprised between 4N and 20N, particularly preferably between 5 and 8N.

[0104] It is preferred if different coffee tablet hardnesses are adapted to different values ​​of flow pressure of the extraction flow, for example 5 bar to 10 bar, 10 to 15 bar and 15 bar to 20 bar.

[0105] In this sense, according to other tests, and in place of the aforementioned embodiments, it is advantageous when the compacted coffee tablet (1) exhibits a hardness comprised between 4N and 10N, between 10N and 16N or between 16N and 22N for each of the aforementioned intervals of flow pressure, respectively.

[0106] According to the tests carried out, the aforementioned hardness intervals can provide coffee tablets (1) adapted to provide a good relationship between resistance to bursting and flow cross section in the case of extraction flows with higher values ​​of flow pressure, respectively.

[0107] These intervals of hardness correspond to those most advantageous for ensuring the resistance of the coffee tablet to external impacts without it breaking or releasing any part of it.

[0108] Furthermore, as mentioned above, one parameter relating to the brewing effectiveness of the coffee tablet (1) is the compaction density.

[0109] In this connection, it has been experimentally determined that it is particularly advantageous for extraction efficiency when the compacted coffee tablets (1) exhibit a pressed density comprised between 0.15 g / ml and 1.0 g / ml, preferably between 0.300 and 0.750 g / ml, and particularly preferably between 0.400 and 0.600 g / ml. It has further been determined that, in order to obtain better extraction results, the pressed density preferably exhibits a value comprised between 0.400 and 0.600 g / ml, more preferably between 0.350 and 0.550 g / ml.

[0110] The weight of the compacted coffee tablets (1) is calculated based on the individual quantity (Q i ) corresponds to at least 98%, preferably at least 99% of the total.

[0111] In addition to hardness and compressed density, the dimensional format of the coffee tablet (1) is also considered a relevant aspect for obtaining good extraction efficiency of espresso type coffee.

[0112] The process is as follows: after 12 hours of compaction, the coffee tablet (1) - 2~6mm 3 , preferably 2.5 to 4 mm 3 The external volume contained in a height comprised between 7 and 13 mm, preferably between 8 and 12 mm, particularly preferably between 9 and 11 mm, and - diameter between 25 and 45 mm, preferably between 30 and 40 mm The present invention includes a supply of coffee tablets (1) exhibiting at least one, preferably at least two of the following:

[0113] The process may include a step of packaging the compacted coffee tablets (1) after the compaction step, said step of packaging being preferably carried out within 2 hours, preferably within 1 hour, of the compaction step in the compaction machine (2).

[0114] The step of compaction preferably involves compacting the individual quantities (Q i ), the individual collection openings (21) of the compaction die (20) are not packaging elements for compacted coffee tablets (1) and do not collect said packaging elements.

[0115] As depicted in the diagrams of Figures 6 and 7 and 8, the process according to the present invention applies a first compaction force (F1), and a second compaction force (F2) after the first (F1), to an initial quantity (Q i ) is included.

[0116] The tests carried out have demonstrated that it is advantageous to apply two successive compaction forces, in particular the first compaction force (F1) being greater than the second compaction force (F2).

[0117] The compaction step consists of individual quantities (Q i ), wherein the first compaction force (F1) is greater than the second compaction force (F2).

[0118] Furthermore, complementarily or alternatively, the compaction step may comprise applying two compaction forces (F1, F2) successively such that the ratio between the first and second compaction forces (F1, F2) is greater than 1.50:1, preferably greater than 2:1, and less than 4:1, preferably less than 3:1.

[0119] In this context, it has proven particularly advantageous when the compaction step comprises applying a first compaction force (F1) of less than 50 kN, preferably equal to or less than 45 kN, and further comprises, after applying the first compaction force (F1), applying a second compaction force (F2) of less than 20 kN, preferably less than 17 kN.

[0120] The tests carried out further show that very high values ​​of the second compaction force (F2) can cause "capping" problems, meaning that parts of the coffee tablets (1) can remain retained in the individual collection openings (21) of the compaction die (20), posing an operational risk to the compaction machine (2).

[0121] Applying a second compaction force (F2) of less than 20 kN, preferably less than 17 kN, solves this problem.

[0122] It is preferred when the consolidation step comprises applying a first consolidation force (F1) comprised between 35 and 45 kN, preferably between 37 and 43 kN, particularly preferably between 38 and 42 kN, and subsequently applying a second consolidation force (F2) of a value less than the first consolidation force (F1).

[0123] It is preferred when the step of compaction comprises applying a second compaction force (F2) comprised between 5 and 20 kN, preferably between 7 and 18 kN, particularly preferably between 8 and 16 kN, which is preceded by applying a first compaction force (F1) of a value greater than the second compaction force (F2).

[0124] According to one embodiment, the compaction step comprises applying a second compaction force (F2) with a delay of less than 0.5 seconds, preferably less than 0.3 seconds, relative to the application of the first compaction force (F1), so that each compaction cycle has a duration of less than 1 second, preferably less than 0.7 seconds.

[0125] The compaction process may involve only two compaction forces (F1, F2).

[0126] The process may include three stages of applying compaction force, preferably when at least two stages exhibit different values ​​of compaction force.

[0127] The process may involve applying a compaction force along the direction of the central axis of symmetry of the compacted coffee tablet, as well as the predominant direction of pressure flow.

[0128] The process may involve only applying a compaction force so that the efficiency of the process may be improved.

[0129] The process does not include a step of deaeration of the roast and ground coffee beans prior to the step of compaction.

[0130] The process does not include a step of moistening the roast and ground coffee beans prior to the step of compaction.

[0131] The process involves placing individual quantities (Q) placed on a base element, for example of the type of container or base folio, which is part of each single package. i ) does not involve the application of a consolidation force.

Claims

1. 1. A method for the manufacture of compacted coffee tablets (1) for preparing coffee-based beverages, including espresso coffee types, by pressurized extraction flow, comprising: The method comprises: - providing a compaction machine (2) including a compaction die (20) presenting a plurality of individual collection openings (21) operable with compaction punches (22, 23); - Individual amounts of edible substances that exhibit a Hausner index of less than 1.30 (Q ｉ ) into the respective collection openings (21) of the compaction die (20); - individual quantities (Q ｉ ) by applying a normal mutual force of a value comprised between 5 kN and 50 kN by means of the compaction punches (22, 23); - ejecting a compacted coffee tablet (1) presenting a hardness comprised between 4N and 30N and a compressed density comprised between 0.15 g / ml and 1.0 g / ml; A method comprising:

2. The individual quantities (Q ｉ The supplying of the individual quantities (Q) to the plurality of, at least 10, preferably at least 20, collection openings (21) of the compaction die (20) arranged along a common alignment is carried out successively along a vertical direction, and the individual quantities (Q) are supplied to all of the plurality of individual collection openings (21) of the compaction die (20). ｉ 2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that the continuous supply of (a) is preferably carried out in a period of less than 1 second, particularly preferably less than 0.5 seconds.

3. Individual quantities (Q ｉ 3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the feeding of the powder (10) to a group of individual collection openings (21) of the compaction die (20) at least approximately simultaneously corresponds to a portion of a plurality of individual collection openings (21) of the compaction die (20) of the compaction machine (2), comprising at least two, preferably at least four individual collection openings (21) of the compaction die (20).

4. Individual quantities for compaction (Q ｉ ) wherein said providing a Hausner index comprised between 1.1 and 1.35, preferably between 1.15 and 1.30, particularly preferably between 1.20 and 1.25, a compressibility index comprised between 10% and 30%, preferably between 15% and 25%; 4. The method according to claim 1, further comprising providing a particulate food material exhibiting at least one of the following:

5. Individual quantities for compaction (Q ｉ ) wherein said providing - an average size of the majority of the particles comprised between 0.3 and 1.0 mm, preferably between 0.3 and 0.8 mm; - D less than 100 micrometers ｖ１０ and D comprised between 700 micrometers and 1 mm, preferably between 750 and 950 micrometers ｖ９０ The average particle size of 5. The method according to claim 1, comprising providing a particulate food material exhibiting at least one of the following particle size distributions:

6. The step of compacting comprises applying a first compaction force (F １ ) and the second compaction force (F ２ ) to the individual quantities (Q ｉ ), wherein the first compaction force (F １ ) is the second compaction force (F ２ ) is greater than and / or The step of compacting comprises applying a first and a second compaction force (F １ , F ２ ) is greater than 1.50:1, preferably greater than 2:1, and less than 4:1, preferably less than 3:

1. １ , F ２ ) in succession. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that

7. The step of compacting is performed with a first compaction force (F) of less than 50 kN, preferably less than or equal to 45 kN. １ ) and / or The step of compacting is performed with the second compaction force (F) being less than 20 kN, preferably less than 17 kN. ２ ) The method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that

8. The step of compaction is carried out with a first compaction force (F ) comprised between 35 and 45 kN, preferably between 37 and 43 kN, particularly preferably between 38 and 42 kN. １ ), followed by applying the first compaction force (F １ The second compaction force (F) is less than the value of ２ 5. The method according to claim 1, further comprising:

9. The step of compaction is carried out with the second compaction force (F ) comprised between 5 and 20 kN, preferably between 7 and 18 kN, particularly preferably between 8 and 16 kN. ２ ), wherein the second compaction force (F ２ The first compaction force (F １ ) is preceded by applying a second compaction force (F ２ 9. The method according to claim 1, further comprising:

10. The second compaction force (F ２ ) for less than 0.5 seconds, preferably less than 0.3 seconds, so that the cycle of compaction has a duration of less than 1 second, preferably less than 0.6 seconds. １ 10. The method according to claim 1, wherein the method exhibits a delay with respect to applying the

11. 11. Method according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the compaction cycle is adjusted so that the supply of compacted coffee tablets (1) by the compaction machines (2) represents a production rate of at least 10,000 units per hour for each compaction machine (2), preferably at least 25,000 units per hour for each compaction machine (2).

12. The compaction step is performed by the compaction punches (22, 23) to compact the individual quantities (Q ｉ ) of the edible material, not including the period of time during which the reduced compacted volume is maintained, ｉ ) to the compaction force (F; F １ , F ２ 12. Method according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the duration of the action of (a) is less than 0.5 seconds, preferably less than 0.2 seconds.

13. the method comprises the provision of coffee tablets (1) which, after 12 hours of compaction, exhibit a variation in their respective dimensions parallel to the compaction direction, e.g. height, of less than 10%, preferably less than 7%; and / or The individual quantities (Q ｉ ) has a moisture content of less than 3% by weight, preferably 1.5% to 3% by weight, particularly preferably 2.0% to 2.8% by weight. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that

14. A compacted coffee tablet (1) for preparing an espresso-type coffee beverage, characterized in that the coffee tablet (1) exhibits a moisture content comprised between 0.3% and 3% by weight, a compressed density comprised between 0.15 g / ml and 1.00 g / ml, and a hardness comprised between 4 N and 30 N, such that the coffee tablet (1) is suitable for being traversed by a pressurized extraction flow having a flow pressure comprised between 5 and 20 bar.

15. The compacted coffee tablet (1) - a water content of between 0.5% and 2.7% by weight, preferably between 0.7% and 2.6% by weight; a hardness comprised between 4N and 22N, preferably comprised in at least one of the intervals between 4N and 10N, between 10N and 16N and between 16N and 22N; a friability of less than 10%, preferably less than 8%, a compressed density comprised between 0.300 and 0.750 g / ml, preferably between 0.400 and 0.600 g / ml; - 250mm ３ ~450mm ３ , preferably 300 mm ３ ~400mm ３ The volume contained in - total height (H) comprised in the following dimensions: 5 mm to 12 mm, preferably 7 mm to 10 mm Ｔ ) and exhibits at least one, preferably both, characteristic dimensions (D) comprised between 30 mm and 44 mm, preferably between 32 mm and 40 mm; an aspect ratio between width and height comprised between 1:1 and 5:1, preferably between 2:1 and 3.5:1, preferred when said coffee tablet (1) does not present a peripheral area with right-angled edges; 15. A compacted coffee tablet according to claim 14, characterized in that it exhibits at least one of the following:

Images