Capsules for use in preparing beverages

Abstract

A capsule for use in preparing a beverage in a beverage preparation machine having a brewing chamber. The capsule includes a cup-shaped body defining an internal cavity for containing beverage ingredients, and a flange extending radially outward from a mouth of the body. The flange includes a chamber-engaging portion that engages with a component of the beverage preparation machine that defines the brewing chamber during preparation of the beverage. The body and flange are formed from compressed pulp fiber material. The chamber-engaging portion of the flange has a density of pulp fiber material that is less than the maximum density of the pulp fiber material in the body.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a capsule for use in preparing a beverage, and to a beverage capsule and beverage preparation system incorporating the capsule. [Background technology]

[0002] In beverage preparation processes, it is known to prepare beverages from disposable beverage capsules using a beverage preparation system designed to cooperate with the capsule. This type of beverage preparation system is desirable for the consistency of the beverage extracted by the consumer. To this end, the provider of the disposable beverage capsule controls several flavor-related characteristics of the beverage ingredients contained in the capsule, including the flavor profile of the beverage influenced by the ingredients. Furthermore, the provider of the beverage preparation machine that receives the capsule controls several variables of the machine's performance, including water temperature, pressure, flow rate, and "shot" volume. These variables can affect the flavor profile of the beverage.

[0003] One known brewing system involves the use of a capsule having a cup-shaped body extending from a flange. The body defines an internal cavity containing a dose of beverage ingredients. A lid is fixed to the flange, closing and sealing the internal cavity of the beverage capsule. To prepare a beverage, the beverage capsule is loaded into a beverage preparation device. This device has two components that are movable relative to each other to form a brewing chamber in which the beverage capsule is located. When the two components are moved relative to each other and close around the beverage capsule, the capsule is perforated at the base of the body (i.e., the portion of the body opposite the flange / lid). Pressurized hot water is injected into the brewing chamber and enters the interior of the beverage capsule through the perforation. The beverage extract is extracted by infusing the beverage ingredients into the hot water. At a sufficiently high internal pressure in the brewing chamber and the beverage capsule (created by the injection of pressurized hot water), the lid contacts an orifice plate and bursts under pressure. The beverage extract is then expelled through the orifice plate and via a discharge pipe. Once brewing is complete, the brewing chamber is opened to release the used beverage capsule, which is then discarded.

[0004] In the beverage preparation device described above, a portion of the beverage capsule is an essential element in forming the pressurized extraction chamber. For this purpose, the flange of the beverage capsule becomes a sealing element between the two components once the extraction chamber is formed. It is known that including an elastomeric material in the capsule flange achieves good sealing performance of the extraction chamber during the beverage preparation process. In this way, the beverage extract is prevented from leaking between the two components forming the extraction chamber.

[0005] As used herein and in the claims that follow, the term "beverage extract" describes a mixture of a liquid component (usually water) and beverage ingredients, the mixture being primarily in liquid form. The mixture is formed by an infusion process, which dissolves and thereby extracts chemical constituents of the beverage ingredients. The beverage extract may include particulate matter (i.e., precipitated material) from the beverage ingredients carried in the mixture.

[0006] The beverage capsules for the above-described brewing systems can preserve beverage ingredients for extended periods of time, possibly as long as 12 months, from the time the beverage capsule is filled by the provider until the beverage is prepared by the consumer. Beverage ingredients are known to deteriorate when exposed to oxygen and water vapor. For this reason, it is desirable for the beverage capsule to provide a high barrier to oxygen and water vapor permeability.

[0007] Many beverage capsules for the above-mentioned brewing systems are made of aluminum, which has good barrier properties. The used capsule is then composed of biodegradable / compostable materials (beverage ingredients) and non-compostable materials (aluminum and, if present, elastomeric materials). While aluminum is recyclable, the presence of biodegradable / compostable materials prevents effective recycling. The presence of elastomeric materials exacerbates this problem.

[0008] To provide a more sustainable alternative, it is known to form beverage capsules from bioplastics (i.e., polymers derived from biological materials). Bioplastics are known to have particularly poor oxygen and water vapor transmission performance characteristics. Therefore, beverage ingredients contained in bioplastic beverage capsules are often spoiled when exposed to atmospheric oxygen and water vapor. Alternatively, secondary packaging is used to limit this exposure.

[0009] It is also known to form beverage capsules containing pulp fiber material that can be home / industrially compostable. The pulp fiber material is molded to form a cup-shaped body and a flange. Conventional molded pulp fiber materials have particularly poor oxygen and water vapor permeability performance characteristics. To improve the performance of molded pulp fiber beverage capsules, it is known to incorporate a liner material that provides barrier properties. Thus, the primary function of the molded pulp fiber is to provide structural form for the beverage capsule.

[0010] In this specification and the claims that follow, the term "capsule" should be understood to refer generally to an article having a cup-shaped body and a flange, and the term "drink capsule" should be understood to refer to that article together with a lid secured to the flange. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0011] The above needs to be addressed and / or at least a useful alternative provided. [Means for solving the problem]

[0012] There is provided a capsule for use in preparing a beverage in a beverage preparation machine having a brewing chamber, the capsule comprising: a body having a cup shape defining an interior cavity for containing beverage ingredients; a flange extending radially outward from the mouth of the body, the flange including a chamber engaging portion that engages with a component of the beverage preparation device that defines the brewing chamber during preparation of a beverage; Equipped with the body and flange are formed of a compressed pulp fiber material; At least the chamber-engaging portion of the flange has a density of pulp fiber material that is less than the maximum density of the pulp fiber material in the body.

[0013] In at least some embodiments, the flange has a radially outer portion surrounding the chamber-engaging portion, and the density of the pulp fiber material in the chamber-engaging portion is less than the maximum density of the pulp fiber material in the radially outer portion.

[0014] There is provided a capsule for use in preparing a beverage in a beverage preparation machine having a brewing chamber, the capsule comprising: a body having a cup shape defining an interior cavity for containing beverage ingredients; a flange extending radially outward from the mouth of the body, a chamber engaging portion adapted to engage a component of the beverage preparation device defining the brewing chamber during preparation of the beverage; a radially outer portion surrounding the chamber engaging portion; Including flanges and Equipped with the body and flange are formed of a compressed pulp fiber material; The minimum density of the pulp fiber material in the chamber-engaging portion is less than the maximum density of the pulp fiber material in the radially outer portion.

[0015] The flange may include a radially innermost portion spacing the chamber-engaging portion from the body, wherein the innermost portion has a density of pulp fiber material greater than a minimum density of pulp fiber material in the chamber-engaging portion.

[0016] There is provided a capsule for use in preparing a beverage in a beverage preparation machine having a brewing chamber, the capsule comprising: a body having a cup shape defining an interior cavity for containing beverage ingredients; a flange extending radially outward from the mouth of the body, a chamber engaging portion adapted to engage a component of the beverage preparation device defining the brewing chamber during preparation of the beverage; A radially innermost portion that separates the chamber engaging portion from the main body; Including flanges and Equipped with the body and flange are formed of a compressed pulp fiber material; The innermost portion has a maximum density of pulp fiber material that is greater than the minimum density of pulp fiber material in the chamber-engaging portion.

[0017] In at least some embodiments, the pulp fiber density in the flange is approximately inversely proportional to the material thickness. Preferably, the chamber engaging portion is an annular portion of the flange.

[0018] In some embodiments, the pulp fiber material at the radially innermost portion of the flange comprises: greater than the density of the pulp fiber material in the chamber engaging portion; less than the density of the pulp fiber material in the annular sidewall It has density.

[0019] Alternatively or additionally, the density of the pulp fiber material at the radially innermost portion of the flange is approximately equal to the density of the pulp fiber material at the annular sidewall. Preferably, the flange has a first major surface facing away from the body and forming a contact surface to which the lid is adhered; The material thickness of the chamber-engaging portion is greater than the material thickness of the radially outer portion, the material thickness being measured in a direction substantially perpendicular to the planar portion of the major surface.

[0020] Alternatively or additionally, the maximum material thickness of the chamber engaging portion is greater than the material thickness of the radially outer portion. In certain embodiments where the flange includes a radially innermost portion, the maximum material thickness of the chamber-engaging portion is greater than the maximum material thickness of the radially innermost portion.

[0021] In some embodiments, the first major surface is substantially planar. In other embodiments, the first major surface is concave and conical. Preferably, the first major surface has a cone angle of 2° or less.

[0022] In certain embodiments, the chamber engaging portion is directly adjacent the body. The chamber engagement portion has a first portion where the density of the pulp fiber material transitions from a first density to a second density; a second portion having a substantially constant density of the pulp fiber material equal to a second density; may be arranged, The first density is greater than the second density.

[0023] Preferably, the first portion of the chamber engaging portion is between the radially outer portion of the flange and the second portion of the chamber engaging portion. The chamber-engaging portion may further include a third portion disposed therein, the third portion having a density of pulp fiber material that increases in a radially inward direction.

[0024] Preferably, the third portion of the chamber engaging portion is between the second portion and the body. Alternatively or additionally, the flange has a second major surface facing towards the body, wherein the portion of the second major surface at the chamber engaging portion is: the exterior of the body, and / or A portion of the second major surface located at the radially outer portion Compared to, it is coarser.

[0025] In some embodiments, the ratio of the arithmetic mean height roughness between the portion of the second major surface at the chamber-engaging portion and the portion of the second major surface at the radially outer portion is at least 1.5:1. In particular examples, the ratio of the arithmetic mean height roughness between the portion of the second major surface at the chamber-engaging portion and the portion of the second major surface at the radially outer portion is at least 2.5:1. In some cases, the ratio of the arithmetic mean height roughness between the portion of the second major surface at the chamber-engaging portion and the portion of the second major surface at the radially outer portion is about 3.5:1.

[0026] In some embodiments, the ratio of maximum height roughness between the portion of the second major surface at the chamber-engaging portion and the portion of the second major surface at the radially outer portion is at least 1.5:1. In particular examples, the ratio of maximum height roughness between the portion of the second major surface at the chamber-engaging portion and the portion of the second major surface at the radially outer portion is at least 2.5:1. In some cases, the ratio of maximum height roughness between the portion of the second major surface at the chamber-engaging portion and the portion of the second major surface at the radially outer portion is about 3.5:1.

[0027] There is also provided a capsule for use in preparing a beverage in a beverage preparation machine having a brewing chamber, the capsule comprising: a body having a cup shape defining an interior cavity for containing beverage ingredients; a flange extending radially outward from the mouth of the body, a chamber engaging portion adapted to engage a component of the beverage preparation device defining the brewing chamber during preparation of the beverage; a radially outer portion surrounding the chamber engaging portion and defining a radially outer peripheral edge of the flange; a first major surface facing away from the body and forming a contact surface to which the lid is adhered, a portion of the first major surface being substantially planar; Including flanges and Equipped with the body and flange are formed of a compressed pulp fiber material; The material thickness of the chamber engaging portion is greater than the material thickness of the radially outer portion.

[0028] The capsule may be configured for use with a beverage preparation machine comprising a capsule holder with a housing for receiving a body of the capsule, and one or more fitting components including an orifice plate facing towards the housing, wherein at least one of the capsule holder and the orifice plate is movable relative to the other between an open configuration and a closed configuration, whereby In the open configuration, the capsule is movable into and out of the housing; in the closed configuration, the mouth of the body is adjacent to the orifice plate and the extraction chamber is defined between the capsule holder and the mating component in the housing; The capsule flange is arranged such that at least a portion of the chamber engaging portion has a sufficient material thickness to be compressed and clamped in the closed position between the capsule holder and the mating component, so that the capsule flange forms a sealing element for the extraction chamber.

[0029] Preferably, the chamber engaging portion forms a sealing element for the extraction chamber. The material thickness is measured in a direction that is substantially perpendicular to the planar portion of the major surface. In certain embodiments, the chamber-engaging portion is directly adjacent the body, hi some alternative embodiments, the chamber-engaging portion is spaced from the body by the innermost portion of the flange.

[0030] The chamber engagement portion has a first portion where the material thickness of the pulp fiber material transitions from a first material thickness to a second material thickness; a second portion where the material thickness of the pulp fiber material transitions from the second material thickness to a third material thickness; may be placed, The first material thickness is less than the second material thickness, and the second material thickness is less than the third material thickness.

[0031] Preferably, the first portion of the chamber engaging portion is between the radially outer portion of the flange and the second portion of the chamber engaging portion. The chamber-engaging portion may further include a third portion disposed therein, the third portion having a substantially constant material thickness of the pulp fiber material.

[0032] Preferably, the third portion of the chamber engaging portion is between the second portion and the body. There is also provided a capsule for use in preparing a beverage in a beverage preparation machine having a brewing chamber, the capsule comprising: a body having a cup shape defining an interior cavity for containing beverage ingredients; a flange extending radially outward from the mouth of the body, a chamber engaging portion adapted to engage a component of the beverage preparation device defining the brewing chamber during preparation of the beverage; a radially outer portion surrounding the chamber engaging portion and defining a radially outer peripheral edge of the flange; a first major surface facing away from the body and forming a contact surface to which the lid is adhered; a second major surface facing toward the body; and a flange including: wherein the portion of the second major surface that is in the chamber-engaging portion is the exterior of the body, and / or A portion of the second major surface located at the radially outer portion Compared to, it is coarser.

[0033] In at least some embodiments, the body and flange of the capsule are formed continuously in a pulp molding process. In at least some embodiments, the greater roughness of the portion of the second major surface at the chamber-engaging portion is a result of the portion of the second major surface being unconstrained during the pulp fiber pressing stage of the pulp molding process in which the capsule is formed.

[0034] In some embodiments, one or more coating materials may be applied to the body and / or flange to enhance the capsule's ability to act as a barrier to one or more atmospheric gases.

[0035] There is also provided a beverage capsule for use with a beverage preparation machine for preparing a beverage, the beverage capsule comprising: The capsule as described above; a lid bonded to the flange of the capsule to close and seal the interior cavity; a single serving of beverage ingredients contained within an internal cavity; Equipped with.

[0036] There is also provided a beverage preparation system comprising a beverage preparation device and a beverage capsule as described above. There is also provided a beverage preparation system comprising a beverage preparation device configured to cooperate with the beverage capsule described above, the beverage preparation device comprising: a capsule holder having a housing for receiving a body of a capsule; one or more mating components including an orifice plate facing the housing, through which the beverage extract passes in use of the system; Equipped with At least one of the capsule holder and the orifice plate is movable relative to the other between an open configuration and a closed configuration, whereby In the open configuration, the capsule is movable into and out of the housing; in the closed configuration, the mouth of the body is adjacent to the orifice plate, there is a predefined separation distance between the capsule holder and the mating component, the predefined separation distance being in a direction that is substantially perpendicular to the orifice plate, and a brewing chamber is defined in the housing between the capsule holder and the mating component; The beverage preparation machine further comprises a liquid delivery subsystem configured to supply pressurized liquid to a liquid inlet to the brewing chamber; At least one of the beverage preparation device and the beverage capsule is configured with a chamber engaging portion having a material thickness, whereby at least a part of a flange of the capsule is compressed and clamped between the capsule holder and the fitting component in the closed position, whereby the beverage capsule forms a sealing element for the extraction chamber.

[0037] Preferably, the chamber engaging portion forms a sealing element for the extraction chamber. In order that the invention may be more readily understood, embodiments will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0038] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view of a capsule according to one embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a side elevational view of the capsule of FIG. 1. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is an enlarged view of area A in FIG. 2. [Figure 4] 4 is a cross-sectional view of the capsule taken along the direction IV-IV in FIG. 2. FIG. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is an enlarged view of region B in FIG. [Figure 6] 2 is a schematic diagram of a beverage capsule including the capsule of FIG. 1 and components of a beverage preparation device according to another embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of the components of the beverage capsule and beverage preparation device of FIG. 6, the components being shown in a closed configuration. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is an enlarged view of region D in FIG. 7. [Figure 9] 9 is an equivalent view of FIG. 8 showing components of an alternative beverage preparation device. [Figure 10] 10 is a cross-sectional view of a capsule according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is an enlarged view of region E in FIG. [Figure 12] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of a beverage capsule incorporating the capsule body of FIG. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is an enlarged view of an area F in FIG. [Figure 14]FIG. 13 is an enlarged schematic view of the beverage capsule of FIG. 12, also showing components of the beverage preparation device, the components being shown in a closed configuration. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0039] Figures 1 to 5 show a capsule 10 for use in preparing a beverage in a beverage preparation machine having a brewing chamber. The preparation of the beverage will be described in further detail with reference to Figures 6 to 9 as it relates to a beverage capsule including the capsule 10.

[0040] The capsule 10 has a cup-shaped body 12 that defines an interior cavity 14. When the capsule 10 is assembled with a lid to form a beverage capsule, beverage ingredients are contained in the interior cavity 14. A flange 16 extends radially outward from the mouth of the body 12.

[0041] The flange 16 includes a chamber-engaging portion 18 that engages with a component of the beverage preparation device that defines the brewing chamber during beverage preparation. This engagement is also described in more detail below with reference to Figures 6 to 9. In this particular embodiment, the chamber-engaging portion 18 is an annular portion of the flange 16. The flange 16 also includes a radially outer portion 20 that surrounds the chamber-engaging portion 18.

[0042] The body 12 and flange 16 are formed of a substantially inelastic compressible material. In this particular embodiment, the body 12 and flange 16 are formed of a compressed pulp fiber material. By way of example only, the body 12 and flange 16 may be formed using a pulp fiber thermoforming machine in which the pulp fibers are molded and compressed to form the body and flange.

[0043] If desired and / or necessary, a coating material may be applied to the body and / or flange to enhance the capsule's ability to act as a barrier to atmospheric gases. In this embodiment, the capsule 10 is rotationally symmetric about a longitudinal axis X as shown in Figures 2 and 4. The body 12 of the capsule 10 includes an annular side wall 22 and a base 24 (which may also be known as a "crown"). At least the external shape of the body 12 is configured to complement the shape of a component of a beverage preparation device with which the beverage capsule cooperates to prepare a beverage.

[0044] 5, the chamber-engaging portion 18 of the flange 16 has a density of pulp fiber material that is less than the maximum density of the pulp fiber material in the body 12. Furthermore, the density of the pulp fiber material in the chamber-engaging portion 18 is less than the maximum density of the pulp fiber material in the radially outer portion 20.

[0045] Further, in this particular embodiment, chamber-engaging portion 18 is arranged to have a first portion 26, a second portion 28, and a third portion 30. In first portion 26, the material thickness of the pulp fiber material transitions radially from a first material thickness t1 to a second material thickness t2. In second portion 28, the material thickness of the pulp fiber material transitions radially from the second material thickness t2 to a third material thickness t3. As shown in FIG. 5, first material thickness t1 is less than second material thickness t2, which is less than third material thickness t3.

[0046] In the third portion 30 of the chamber engaging portion 18, the material thickness of the pulp fiber material is substantially constant. The transitions between the aforementioned material thicknesses need not be linear with respect to radial distance from the longitudinal axis X. For example, as shown in FIG. 5, in the first portion 26, the material thickness of the flange 16 is a first material thickness t1 and an intermediate material thickness t2. i The first pitch angle is a conical taper between the intermediate material thickness t i Between the first and second material thicknesses t1 and t2, the flange 16 conically tapers at a second pitch angle, the second pitch angle being greater than the first pitch angle.

[0047] The first portion 26 of the chamber-engaging portion 18 is between the radially outer portion 20 and the second portion 28 of the chamber-engaging portion 18. Additionally, the third portion 30 of the chamber-engaging portion 18 is between the second portion 28 and the body 12.

[0048] In this particular example, the material thickness t1 of the radially outer portion 20 is approximately equal to the material thickness of the annular sidewall 22 of the body 12 in the region adjacent the mouth of the body 12. Regarding the density of the pulp fibers in the chamber engaging portion 18: - in the first portion 26, the density of the pulp fiber material transitions radially from a first density to a second density; - in the second portion 28, the density of the pulp fiber material is substantially constant and equal to the second density; In the third portion 30, the density of the pulp fiber material increases in the radially inward direction (i.e., in the direction towards the longitudinal axis X).

[0049] The pulp fiber density in the flange is approximately inversely proportional to the material thickness. Thus, the first density is greater than the second density. However, the pulp fiber density is also determined by factors related to the amount of pulp fiber slurry accumulated in the initial stage of forming the capsule 10 and the compression of this accumulated pulp fiber in the subsequent stage of forming the capsule 10. In this regard, reference may be made to the process and forming equipment described and exemplified in Australian Patent Application No. 2023901521 (filed in the name of the applicant on May 17, 2023), the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0050] The chamber engaging portion 18 of the flange 16 may be formed using the process and forming equipment described and illustrated in Australian Patent Application No. 2022902962 (filed in the name of the applicant on 10 October 2022), the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0051] In the embodiment of FIGS. 1-5, the radially outer portion 20 defines an outer peripheral edge 40 of the flange 16 . Flange 16 has a first major surface 32 that faces away from body 12 and a second major surface 34 that faces toward body 12. In other words, first major surface 32 and second major surface 34 are on opposite sides of flange 16.

[0052] First major surface 32 provides a contact surface to which a lid is adhered. In this example, at least a portion of first major surface 32 is substantially planar. As shown in FIG. 5 , the material thickness of flange 16 is in a direction that is substantially perpendicular to the planar portion of major surface 32.

[0053] The portion of second major surface 34 at chamber-engaging portion 18 is rougher than both the exterior surface of the body and the portion of second major surface 34 at radially outer portion 20. This greater roughness is illustrated in Figures 1-3. The greater roughness of this portion of the capsule 10 surface is a result of the lack of restraint on that portion of second major surface 34 during the pulp fiber pressing step in the formation of capsule 10.

[0054] In this example, capsule 10 is configured such that chamber-engaging portion 18 transitions into annular sidewall 22 of body 12. In some alternative examples, flange 16 may be configured such that a portion of higher density and reduced material thickness (compared to chamber-engaging portion 18) is disposed between chamber-engaging portion 18 and body 12.

[0055] When the capsule 10 is formed from a pulp fiber material, the body 12 and flange 16 are formed continuously during the pulp molding process. In other words, the body 12 and flange 16 are formed as a single piece.

[0056] Figures 6 to 8 show a beverage capsule 100 which includes the capsule 10 of Figure 1. The beverage capsule 100 also includes a lid 102 which is adhered to the flange 16 of the capsule 10. A dose of a beverage ingredient C is contained within the interior cavity of the beverage capsule 100.

[0057] 6 to 8 also show components of the beverage preparation machine, which are shown schematically and for illustrative purposes only. The components shown include a capsule holder 110 with a housing 112 that receives the body 12 of the beverage capsule 100, and mating components including an orifice plate 114 and an outlet tube 116.

[0058] The capsule holder 110 and the mating components are movable relative to each other between an open configuration and a closed configuration, in which the beverage capsule 100 can be manipulated into and out of the housing 112. In an actual beverage preparation device, additional components may be incorporated to at least semi-automate (or fully automate) the manipulation of the beverage capsule 100 from an insertion position in the device to an ejection position in the device.

[0059] The distal face of the capsule holder 110 has an engagement surface 118 . In the closed configuration (shown diagrammatically in Figure 7), the outer surface of the lid 102 rests against the orifice plate 114, with the engagement surface 118 abutting the second major surface 34 of the capsule 10. In this closed configuration, a "brewing chamber" is defined within the housing 112 and between the capsule-holder 110 and the orifice plate 114.

[0060] As is evident from Figure 8, when the capsule-holder 110 and the mating components are in the closed configuration, the beverage capsule 100 forms a sealing element for the brewing chamber. The beverage preparation machine also includes a capsule perforating blade 120 and a water inlet 122 to the housing 112. The water inlet 122 is interconnected with a liquid delivery subsystem (not shown) configured to supply a liquid, such as water, under pressure of up to 2000 kPa (20 bar) (typically up to 1800 kPa (18 bar)). It will be understood that the form and configuration of the liquid delivery subsystem and water inlet shown in the drawings is shown and described for illustrative purposes and is not intended to precisely reflect any particular arrangement of known beverage preparation machines.

[0061] The orifice plate 114 includes a shaped feature 124 that is shaped so that pressure of the lid 102 against the orifice plate 114 causes the lid 102 to rupture. The orifices in the orifice plate 114 allow liquid to pass through the plate, collect, and be expelled through the outlet tube 116.

[0062] To prepare a beverage, a beverage capsule 100 is loaded into the device and the device is operated to assume a closed configuration. With this movement, the flange 16 of the beverage capsule 100 is clamped between the capsule holder 110 and the orifice plate 114. At the same time, the capsule piercing blade 120 pierces the base 24 of the beverage capsule 100, as shown in Figure 7.

[0063] The liquid delivery subsystem is then operated to supply liquid to the brewing chamber via the water inlet 122. The liquid fills the brewing chamber and, in doing so, enters the internal cavity 14 of the beverage capsule 100 via the holes introduced into the beverage capsule 100 by the capsule perforation blade 120. Fluid pressure in the capsule 10 forces the lid 102 against the orifice plate 114, and with sufficient pressure, causes the lid 102 to burst on the shaped portion 124. When the water comes into contact with the beverage ingredient C, the ingredient is infused into the water. After the rupture of the lid 102, the continued flow of water into the beverage capsule 100 causes the beverage extract to flow through the orifice plate 114 and the outlet tube 116.

[0064] The above-mentioned clamping of the flange 16 of the beverage capsule 100 between the capsule holder 110 and the orifice plate 114 is an important aspect for reliable beverage preparation, and this applies to many, if not all, beverage capsules and brewing devices of this general type. In particular, it is necessary for the lid 102 of the beverage capsule 100 to be properly positioned against the orifice plate 114 of the shaped part 124 to ensure that the ideal internal pressure in the internal cavity 14 will cause the lid 102 to burst. To this end, it is known that the degree of initial infusion of the beverage ingredient C into the water contributes to the flavor profile of the prepared beverage. In some prior art brewing systems, such proper positioning is achieved by incorporating a flange as a sealing element into the brewing chamber.

[0065] The beverage preparation device is configured to have a predefined separation distance between the capsule-holder 110 and the mating component when in the closed configuration. In this regard, the predefined separation distance is in a direction that is substantially perpendicular to the orifice plate 114. To this end, the predefined separation distance in this example is the minimum distance between the engagement surface 118 and the orifice plate 114. In practice, the presence of a beverage capsule between the capsule-holder 110 and the orifice plate 114 may result in the actual separation being slightly greater than the predefined separation distance.

[0066] It will be appreciated that the material thickness and the ability of the flange to be compressed are important aspects for the operation of the beverage preparation machine. The ability of the flange to be compressed depends at least in part on the density of the material in the flange. If the flange material is insufficiently thick, the seal created by the flange will be poor, resulting in leakage through the flange and between the capsule holder 110 and the orifice plate 114. Similarly, if the fluid pressure from within the brewing chamber has the ability to deform the capsule (e.g., due to the material properties of the capsule's flange), similar leakage may occur.

[0067] Conversely, if the flange material is too thick and cannot be sufficiently compressed due to the flange thickness, the clamping force required to close the device will be too high, in this scenario it may not be possible to close the beverage preparation device in the closed configuration with the capsule in the brewing chamber, or doing so may place excessive strain on the components of the beverage preparation device, risking damage to the device.

[0068] The above observations and scenarios regarding the clamping of the beverage capsule's flange between the capsule-holder 110 and the mating component are exacerbated by various factors when in the closed configuration. Among these factors are the large "envelope" of relative positions that the beverage capsule can occupy with respect to the capsule-holder 110 and the mating component as the beverage preparation device is brought into the closed configuration. In this respect, it should be understood that such a beverage capsule is a rotationally symmetric object (at least in terms of its geometric shape). Therefore, the beverage preparation device and / or the beverage capsule needs to be configured to accommodate a range of possible relative positions.

[0069] Additionally, any surface irregularities in the engagement surface 118 (due to manufacturing variations, tolerances, and / or design requirements of the beverage preparation device) may result in liquid leakage. These problems are typically mitigated by imposing design requirements on the capsule, requiring relatively tight tolerances on the capsule geometry.

[0070] With respect to the beverage capsule 100, the different densities of the chamber-engaging portion 18 and the radially outer portion 20 of the flange 16 facilitate secure alignment of the beverage capsule 100 with the capsule-holder 110 and its mating components. Furthermore, incorporating the chamber-engaging portion 18 into the capsule 10 as described above has the advantage of achieving a proper and secure seal on the brewing chamber, while also keeping the clamping force at an acceptable level. The beverage preparation device is thus able to achieve the required pressurization of the brewing chamber, thereby enabling a reliable infusion of the beverage ingredients and extraction of the beverage.

[0071] It is known that pulp fiber materials can become "sticky" when rewetted. This is due, at least in part, to the large surface area of ​​loose pulp fibers at the surface of the pulp material and its tendency to establish capillary bridges between the pulp fiber material and the surfaces of various other materials when wetted. Capillary bridges create a sticky (i.e., viscous) bond between the wetted pulp fiber material and the surface of another material or item, which must be overcome in order for the pulp fiber material to be released from the other material or item. The establishment of capillary bridges and the strength of the attractive forces between the pulp fiber material and the other surface depend on several factors, including the proximity of the two surfaces, the geometric characteristics of the surfaces (e.g., smoothness), the materials of the two surfaces, and the liquid properties. It should be apparent that there is a reasonable possibility that the capsule 10 may become sticky during the beverage preparation process, and also when the used capsule 10 is released from the brewing chamber after the beverage preparation process is completed.

[0072] The part of the second major surface 34 at the chamber engaging portion 18 has a greater roughness compared to the radially outer portion 20 and the annular side wall 22. This greater roughness of the second major surface 34 at the chamber engaging portion 18 is achieved by forming the chamber engaging portion 18 in the flange 16, which is described in Australian Patent Application No. 2022902962. As shown in Figure 8, the part of the second major surface 34 at the chamber engaging portion 18 contacts the engagement surface 118 of the capsule holder 110 during the beverage preparation process.

[0073] As mentioned above, the engagement surface 118 of the capsule-holder 110 abuts the second major surface 34 of the capsule 10 when the beverage preparation device is in the closed configuration. The applicant conducted tests in which beverages were extracted using sample beverage capsules substantially as described herein in order to objectively evaluate the release of used beverage capsules from various commercially available beverage preparation devices. It was observed that the sample beverage capsule 100 having the chamber-engaging portion 18, and therefore the portion of the second major surface 34 with greater roughness, was easily and reliably released from the capsule-holder 110. In contrast, it was observed that a substantially similar beverage capsule without the chamber-engaging portion 18 was somewhat more difficult to release from the capsule-holder 110. Without wishing to be bound by any particular theory, it is believed that the beverage capsule 100 with the chamber-engaging portion 18, and therefore the corresponding portion of the second major surface 34 with greater roughness, results in a weaker bond created by capillary bridging, resulting in lower adhesion between the pulp material and the capsule-holder 110.

[0074] The above-mentioned attributes of the second major surface 34 of the flange 16 of the capsule 10 provide the advantage of easing the adhesion between the second major surface 34 and the capsule-holder 110 after beverage preparation is completed. Thus, when the beverage preparation device is returned to the open configuration, the beverage capsule 100 is reliably released from the capsule-holder 110 for ejection from the device.

[0075] Figure 9 is an equivalent view of Figure 8, showing components of an alternative beverage preparation machine. Parts of the alternative beverage preparation machine that are identical or similar to parts of the beverage preparation machine described with reference to Figures 6 to 8 have the same reference numerals, with the prefix "1" replaced by the prefix "2", and for the sake of brevity will not be described again.

[0076] The alternative beverage preparation device differs in the form of the engagement surface 218 of the capsule holder 210. To this end, the engagement surface 218 has an inner annular ring 230 and an outer annular ring 232. The two rings 230, 232 are separated by an annular groove 234. Figure 9 shows the clamping and compression of the chamber engagement part 18 with the inner annular ring 230.

[0077] In certain beverage preparation machines, a portion of the inner annular ring 230 includes a series of circumferentially spaced fillet-like formations that can influence the pressure applied to the flange of a beverage capsule captured between the capsule holder 210 and the orifice plate 214.

[0078] 10 and 11 show a capsule 310 according to a further embodiment. Parts of capsule 310 that are identical or similar to parts of capsule 10 have the same reference numbers with the prefix "3" and, for the sake of brevity, will not be described again.

[0079] Figures 12 and 13 show a beverage capsule 300 comprising a capsule 310 as shown in Figure 11 and a lid 302 attached to a flange 316 of the capsule 310. A dose of beverage ingredient C is contained within the internal cavity of the beverage capsule 300.

[0080] The chamber engaging portion 318 of the flange 316 may be formed using the process and forming equipment described and illustrated in the applicant's Australian Patent Application No. 2022902962. The flange 316 of the capsule 310 includes a radially innermost portion 336 that separates the chamber-engaging portion 318 from the body 312. The density of the pulp fiber material at the radially innermost portion 336 is greater than the minimum density of the pulp fiber material at the chamber-engaging portion 318.

[0081] The pulp fiber material at the radially innermost portion 336 of the flange 316 has a density approximately equal to the density of the annular sidewall 322 . 10 and 11, second major surface 334 is concave and conical. Further, second major surface 334 has a cone angle of approximately 1°. The configuration of second major surface 334 is useful for certain post-production process considerations, but does not significantly contribute to the material properties of the pulp fiber material of flange 316.

[0082] Radially outer portion 320 defines a peripheral edge 340 of flange 316. In radially outer portion 320, the material thickness (measured in a direction generally perpendicular to second major surface 334) increases from a minimum thickness t0 at peripheral edge 340 to a material thickness t1 adjacent chamber-engaging portion 318.

[0083] Chamber engaging portion 318 of flange 316 has a density of pulp fiber material that is less than the maximum density of pulp fiber material in radially outer portion 320 . In this example, chamber-engaging portion 318 has a first portion 326 and a second portion 328. In first portion 326, the material thickness of the pulp fiber material increases in the radially inward direction from a first material thickness t1 to a second material thickness t2. In second portion 328, the material thickness of the pulp fiber material decreases in the radially inward direction from the second material thickness t2 to a third material thickness t3.

[0084] As shown in FIG. 11, the first material thickness t1 is smaller than the second material thickness t2, and the second material thickness t2 is larger than the third material thickness t3. The transitions between the above-mentioned material thicknesses are not linear with respect to radial distance from the longitudinal axis X.

[0085] 11, a portion of the radially innermost portion 336 of the flange 316 is adjacent to the second portion 328. The thickness of this portion of the radially innermost portion 336 corresponds to the third material thickness t3.

[0086] The first major surface 332 and the outer surface of the annular sidewall 322 are shaped such that an annular trough is formed between the chamber engaging portion 318 and the annular sidewall 322. The base of the annular trough coincides with the radially innermost portion 336.

[0087] The capsule 310 is formed from a pulp fiber material, and the body 312 and flange 316 are continuously formed in a pulp molding process, in other words, the body 312 and flange 316 are formed as a single piece.

[0088] At the transition from flange 316 to annular sidewall 322 of body 312, a first chamfer 342 is formed at the transition from second major surface 334 to the inner surface of annular sidewall 322 (considering internal cavity 314). Similarly, a second chamfer 344 is formed at the transition from first major surface 332 to the outer surface of annular sidewall 322.

[0089] In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, the pulp fiber material of the capsule 310 between the first chamfered portion 342 and the second chamfered portion 344 has a density approximately equal to the density of the annular side wall 322.

[0090] The aforementioned density of the pulp fiber material of capsule 310 is determined by several factors. These include the accumulation of pulp fiber slurry in the initial stages of forming capsule 310, and the compression of this accumulated pulp fiber in subsequent stages of forming capsule 310. With regard to the latter factor, the degree of compression is determined by the shape of the mold and the process conditions of the various pressing operations that occur after the initial accumulation of the pulp fiber slurry from the pulp fiber suspension into the liquid. In this regard, reference may again be made to the process and forming equipment described and illustrated in applicant's Australian Patent Application No. 2023901521.

[0091] 12 and 13, it can be observed that the beverage ingredient C contained in the internal cavity 314 of the beverage capsule 100 is isolated from the atmosphere surrounding the beverage capsule 300. To this end, the capsule 310 and the lid 302 provide a barrier to the transmission / exchange of various gases between the atmosphere and the internal cavity 314.

[0092] A coating material may be applied to the body and / or flange to enhance the capsule's ability to act as a barrier to atmospheric gases. The capsule 310 may have one or more barrier materials supported on the surface of the body 310 that provide resistance and / or a barrier to the permeation of one or both of oxygen gas and water vapor. By way of example, the barrier material may be provided on the surface of the body 312 that faces inward toward the internal cavity 314. In other words, the barrier material may be provided as a coating on the surface of the pulp fiber material of the annular sidewall 322 and the base 324. Examples of barrier materials are described in Australian Patent Application No. 2023901526 (filed in the name of the applicant on May 17, 2023), the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0093] Although a barrier material may be provided on one or more surfaces of capsule 310, the compressed pulp fiber material provides some resistance and / or barrier to atmospheric gas transmission. The barrier provided by capsule 310 is a combination of the barrier provided by the pulp fiber material and the barrier material. Furthermore, the effectiveness of the pulp fiber material as a barrier to atmospheric gases is related to the density of the pulp fiber material and the degree of compression of the pulp fiber material.

[0094] As noted above, the density of the pulp fiber material in the radially innermost portion 336 and the annular sidewall 322 is approximately equal. This provides the advantage that the barrier properties of the portion of the capsule 310 surrounding the interior cavity 314 are approximately equal. Furthermore, with appropriate selection of materials, the lid 302 provides a barrier to the transmission of atmospheric gases that is at least equal to that of the capsule 310 itself.

[0095] 11 and 13, it can be seen that the lid 302 is attached to the first major surface 332 from the flange 316 to the transition to the annular side wall 322. Depending on the shape and configuration of the capsule 310, the "paths" for atmospheric gases to access the beverage ingredient C contained in the internal cavity 314 by the capsule 310 and lid 302 are through the annular side wall 322, through the lid 302, or through the flange 316. The inclusion of the radially innermost portion 336 in the flange 316 has the advantage of reducing the movement of atmospheric gases that may penetrate the pulp fiber material of the chamber-engaging portion 318 toward the internal cavity 314.

[0096] From this description, it becomes apparent that the density of the pulp fiber material in chamber-engaging portion 318 is less than the density of radially innermost portion 336 and annular sidewall 322. Separating chamber-engaging portion 318 from body 312 by radially innermost portion 336 helps separate the lower density pulp fiber material in chamber-engaging portion 318 from interior cavity 314.

[0097] Figure 14 is an enlarged schematic view of a portion of the beverage capsule 300 of Figures 12 and 13. Figure 14 also shows components of the beverage preparation device shown in Figure 9. Those familiar with beverage preparation machines of the type in which the beverage capsule 300 is used will understand that in many of these machines the brewing chamber is generally horizontal, and therefore the orifice plate 214 is generally vertical. In this arrangement, when the beverage capsule 300 is in the brewing chamber, the longitudinal axis X of the capsule 310 is horizontal. The part of the beverage capsule 300 in the region of the flange 316 is annular. As a result of these geometries, the alignment of the beverage capsule 300 in the brewing chamber will not be precise. Therefore, the engagement surface 218 of the capsule-holder 210 and the flange 316 may not be concentric. In many cases, the beverage capsule 300 is positioned in the capsule-holder 210 so that the bottom region of the annular side wall 322 is in contact with the capsule-holder 210 and the opposite top region of the annular side wall 322 is spaced apart from the capsule-holder 210.

[0098] The tendency of the pulp fiber material of the capsule 310 to swell upon contact with water (including during the beverage preparation process) is inversely proportional to the density of the pulp fiber material. For example, the pulp fiber material in the chamber-engaging portion 318 has a lower density compared to the radially innermost portion 336. In particular, the innermost portion 336 has a maximum density of pulp fiber material that is greater than the minimum density of the pulp fiber material in the chamber-engaging portion 318. By incorporating the radially innermost portion 336 between the chamber-engaging portion 318 and the annular side wall 322, an annular portion of pulp fiber material is provided in the flange 316 and adjacent the annular side wall 322 that has a lower tendency to swell during the beverage preparation process. An advantage of this arrangement is that the beverage capsule 300 is less likely to become stuck in the capsule holder 210 after extraction due to swelling of the pulp fiber material during the beverage preparation process.

[0099] Similar to the arrangements shown in Figures 8 and 9, the inclusion of the chamber engagement portion 318 provides the advantage that that portion of the flange 316 facilitates conforming to the shape of the engagement surfaces 118, 218 of the capsule holder 110, 210 when the beverage preparation device is in a closed configuration around the beverage capsule 300. [Example]

[0100] Applicant has formed capsules of bagasse pulp fiber material substantially as described with reference to Figures 1 to 5, 10 and 11. Surface roughness: Surface roughness measurements were taken on first major surface 332 on each of chamber-engaging portion 318 and radially outer portion 320 of flange 316 .

[0101] Measurements were performed using an optical profilometer (for these tests, a non-contact laser microscope type roughness tester). The profilometer zoom was set to 50x. For each measurement, the measured area was 260 μm x 260 μm. The measured surfaces were cylindrical, and a transformation was applied to remove the effects of the cylindrical shape.

[0102] For each measurement, the arithmetic mean roughness (Sa) and maximum height (Sz) were recorded. The arithmetic mean roughness (Sa) is the absolute value of the difference in height of each point on the surface compared to the arithmetic mean of that surface (within the measurement area). The maximum height is the sum of the maximum peak height value and the maximum pit depth value (within the measurement area).

[0103] Table 1 shows the surface roughness parameters mentioned above for each of the two capsules measured. "Area 1" is in the radially outer portion 320; "Area 2" is in the chamber engaging portion 318; The "sidewall" is the outer portion of the annular sidewall 322.

[0104] [Table 1]

[0105] The above results indicate that the arithmetic mean roughness (Sa) within the chamber-engaging portion 318 is about 175% to about 350% of the arithmetic mean roughness within the radially outer portion 320. In other words, a ratio of about 1.75:1 to about 3.5:1.

[0106] Also, the maximum height (Sz) within the chamber engaging portion 318 is approximately 305% to approximately 315% of the maximum height within the radially outer portion 320. In other words, a ratio of approximately 3:1. From Table 1, it can be observed that these surface roughness parameters are related to the capsule weight, which is understood to be a result of the pressing die characteristics (including minimization of tool separation during pressing and pressing closure force) and the amount of pulp slurry that accumulates on the tool during the initial forming stage.

[0107] Preliminary observation of capsules 1 and 2 indicates that the density of the pulp fiber material in chamber-engaging portion 318 is not uniform in a direction generally parallel to longitudinal axis X. In particular, a region of chamber-engaging portion 318 intermediate first major surface 332 and second major surface 334 (indicated by arrow 338 in FIGS. 11 and 13 ) has a variation in the density of the pulp fiber material. To this end, in chamber-engaging portion 318, the pulp fiber material adjacent first major surface 332 has a higher density compared to the pulp fiber material adjacent second major surface 334. This characteristic is understood to be a result of the tooling and process used to form chamber-engaging portion 318.

[0108] It is worth noting that the engagement surface of the capsule-holder of a particular brewing device may not be perfectly rotationally symmetric, concentric and / or parallel to the orifice plate, resulting in uneven contact pressure of the capsule-holder on the flange of the beverage capsule, which may be exacerbated in some brewing devices having an engagement surface with a series of circumferentially spaced fillet-like mouldings.

[0109] Testing of the exemplary beverage capsule has shown that a coarser pulp fiber structure in the portion of the second major surface 334 allows for a more rapid conformance to the engagement surface of the capsule holder. This rapid conformance may also be enhanced by some swelling of the pulp fiber material in the chamber-engaging portion 318 that may occur during the beverage preparation process. In this regard, the lower density pulp fiber material in the chamber-engaging portion 318 allows for increased swelling in the chamber-engaging portion 318 compared to other portions of the flange 316.

[0110] Table 2 shows the thickness of the flange 316 (referenced in FIG. 11 and the accompanying description) and the annular side wall 322 portions in two sample capsules.

[0111] [Table 2]

[0112] The density at different portions of the capsule can be calculated based on the measured weight of the capsule body, the measured thickness, and the external surface area of ​​the capsule body. Table 3 shows the calculated densities for each of the sample capsules based on the material thicknesses listed in Table 2.

[0113] [Table 3]

[0114] From Table 3, it can be observed that for both sample capsules: 1. The density of the pulp fiber material in the chamber engaging portion (corresponding to the flange at t2) is less than the maximum density of the pulp fiber material in the main body (i.e., within the annular side wall).

[0115] 2. The density of the pulp fiber material in the chamber engaging portion (corresponding to the flange at t2) is less than the maximum density of the pulp fiber material in the radially outer portion (corresponding to the flange at t0). 3. The density of the pulp fiber material in the innermost radial portion (corresponding to the flange at t3) is a. The density of the pulp fiber material in the chamber engagement portion (corresponding to the flange at t2) is greater than that of the pulp fiber material in the chamber engagement portion (corresponding to the flange at t2), b. Less than the density of the pulp fiber material within the annular side wall.

[0116] Other sample capsules of similar configuration to those of Figures 1 and 10 are formed, filled with a dose of roast and ground coffee beans, and closed with a suitable lidding material to create a beverage capsule as described herein.

[0117] As a non-limiting example, a potentially suitable material for use as a lid for the capsule body 10 of capsule 2 is Sylvicta® brand food contact paper produced for Arjowiggins Group Ltd / Fedrigoni SpA, which is reported to have high barrier properties. Another potentially suitable material for use as a lid for the capsule body 10 of capsule 2 is the multi-layer material disclosed in International Patent Publication No. WO 2022 / 053339 A1 in the name of Société Des Produits Nestlé SA (in which document the multi-layer material is described as the "delivery wall" of the beverage capsule).

[0118] Throughout this specification and the claims that follow, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the word "comprise" and variations such as "comprises" and "comprising" are understood to mean the inclusion of a stated integer or step or group of integers or steps, but not to exclude other integers or steps or groups of integers or steps.

[0119] Reference herein to any prior publication (or information derived therefrom) or to any known matter is not, and should not be construed as, an acknowledgment, admission, or any form of suggestion that the prior publication (or information derived therefrom) or known matter forms part of the common general knowledge in the field of endeavor to which this specification pertains.

Claims

1. 1. A capsule for use in preparing a beverage in a beverage preparation machine having a brewing chamber, comprising: a body having a cup shape defining an interior cavity for containing beverage ingredients; a flange extending radially outward from the mouth of the body, the flange including a chamber engaging portion that engages a component of the beverage preparation device that defines the brewing chamber during beverage preparation; Equipped with the body and the flange are formed from a compressed pulp fiber material; at least the chamber-engaging portion of the flange has a density of the pulp fiber material that is less than a maximum density of the pulp fiber material in the body; capsule.

2. the flange has a radially outer portion surrounding the chamber engaging portion; the density of the pulp fiber material in the chamber-engaging portion is less than a maximum density of the pulp fiber material in the radially outer portion; The capsule of claim 1.

3. the flange includes a radially innermost portion that spaces the chamber engaging portion from the body; the innermost portion has a density of pulp fiber material greater than a minimum density of the pulp fiber material in the chamber-engaging portion. The capsule according to claim 1 or 2.

4. the chamber engaging portion is directly adjacent the body; A capsule according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. 1. A capsule for use in preparing a beverage in a beverage preparation machine having a brewing chamber, comprising: a body having a cup shape defining an interior cavity for containing beverage ingredients; a flange extending radially outward from the mouth of the body, a chamber engagement portion adapted to engage a component of the beverage preparation device defining the brewing chamber during preparation of the beverage; a radially innermost portion separating the chamber engaging portion from the body; Including flanges and Equipped with the body and the flange are formed from a compressed pulp fiber material; the innermost portion has a maximum density of pulp fiber material that is greater than a minimum density of the pulp fiber material in the chamber-engaging portion; capsule.

6. The pulp fiber density in the flange is approximately inversely proportional to the material thickness. A capsule according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. the chamber engaging portion is an annular portion of the flange; A capsule according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. the flange has a first major surface facing away from the body and forming a contact surface to which a lid is adhered; a material thickness of the chamber engaging portion is greater than a material thickness of the radially outer portion; The capsule of claim 7.

9. The chamber engaging portion has: a first portion where the density of the pulp fiber material transitions from a first density to a second density; a second portion of the pulp fiber material, wherein the density is substantially constant and equal to the second density; is placed, the first density is greater than the second density; A capsule according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. the first portion of the chamber engaging portion is between the radially outer portion of the flange and the second portion of the chamber engaging portion. The capsule of claim 9.

11. a third portion is further disposed in the chamber engaging portion, in which the density of the pulp fiber material increases in a radially inward direction; The capsule according to claim 9 or 10.

12. the third portion of the chamber-engaging portion is between the second portion and the body. The capsule of claim 11.

13. the flange has a second major surface facing toward the body; The portion of the second major surface at the chamber engaging portion is the outer surface of the body, and / or a portion of the second major surface at the radially outer portion Compared to, it is coarser, A capsule according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

14. 1. A capsule for use in preparing a beverage in a beverage preparation machine having a brewing chamber, comprising: a body having a cup shape defining an interior cavity for containing beverage ingredients; a flange extending radially outward from the mouth of the body, a chamber engagement portion adapted to engage a component of the beverage preparation device defining the brewing chamber during preparation of the beverage; a radially outer portion surrounding the chamber engaging portion and defining a radially outer peripheral edge of the flange; a first major surface facing away from the body and forming a contact surface to which a lid is adhered, a portion of the first major surface being substantially planar; Including flanges and Equipped with the body and the flange are formed from a compressed pulp fiber material; a material thickness of the chamber engaging portion is greater than a material thickness of the radially outer portion; capsule.

15. The capsule is configured for use with a beverage preparation machine comprising a capsule holder with a housing for receiving the body of the capsule, and one or more fitting components including an orifice plate facing towards the housing, wherein at least one of the capsule holder and the orifice plate is movable relative to the other between an open configuration and a closed configuration, whereby In the open configuration, the capsule is movable into and out of the housing; in the closed configuration, the mouth of the body is adjacent to the orifice plate and a brewing chamber is defined in the housing between the capsule holder and the mating component; the flange of the capsule is arranged such that at least a part of its chamber-engaging portion has a material thickness sufficient to be compressed and clamped in a closed position between the capsule holder and the fitting component, so that the flange of the capsule forms a sealing element for the extraction chamber. The capsule of claim 14.

16. the chamber engaging portion forms a sealing element for the extraction chamber; 16. The capsule of claim 14 or 15.

17. the chamber engaging portion is directly adjacent the body; A capsule according to any one of claims 14 to 16.

18. the chamber engaging portion is spaced from the body by an innermost portion of the flange; A capsule according to any one of claims 14 to 16.

19. The chamber engaging portion has: a first portion where the material thickness of the pulp fiber material transitions from a first material thickness to a second material thickness; a second portion where the material thickness of the pulp fiber material transitions from the second material thickness to a third material thickness; is placed, the first material thickness is less than the second material thickness; the second material thickness is less than the third material thickness; A capsule according to any one of claims 14 to 18.

20. the first portion of the chamber engaging portion is between the radially outer portion of the flange and the second portion of the chamber engaging portion.

20. The capsule of claim 19.

21. a third portion, in which the pulp fiber material has a substantially constant material thickness, further disposed in the chamber engaging portion; 21. The capsule of claim 19 or 20.

22. the third portion of the chamber-engaging portion is between the second portion and the body.

22. The capsule of claim 21.

23. 1. A capsule for use in preparing a beverage in a beverage preparation machine having a brewing chamber, comprising: a body having a cup shape defining an interior cavity for containing beverage ingredients; a flange extending radially outward from the mouth of the body, a chamber engagement portion adapted to engage a component of the beverage preparation device defining the brewing chamber during preparation of the beverage; a radially outer portion surrounding the chamber engaging portion and defining a radially outer peripheral edge of the flange; a first major surface facing away from the body and forming a contact surface to which a lid is adhered; a second major surface facing toward the body; and Including flanges and Equipped with The portion of the second major surface at the chamber engaging portion is the outer surface of the body, and / or a portion of the second major surface at the radially outer portion Compared to, it is coarser, capsule.

24. the greater roughness of the portion of the second major surface at the chamber-engaging portion is a result of the portion of the second major surface being unconstrained during a pulp fiber pressing stage of a pulp molding process in which the capsule is formed; 24. The capsule of claim 23.

25. The body and flange of the capsule are formed continuously in a pulp molding process.

25. A capsule according to any one of claims 1 to 24.

26. 1. A beverage capsule for use with a beverage preparation device for preparing a beverage, comprising: A capsule according to any one of claims 1 to 25; a lid adhered to the flange of the capsule to close and seal the interior cavity; a single serving of beverage ingredients contained within said internal cavity; A beverage capsule comprising:

27. a beverage preparation device; A beverage capsule according to claim 26. A beverage preparation system comprising:

28. 27. A beverage preparation system including a beverage preparation device adapted to cooperate with a beverage capsule according to claim 26, The beverage preparation device comprises: a capsule holder having a housing for receiving the body of the capsule; one or more mating components including an orifice plate facing the housing, through which the beverage ingredient extract passes during use of the system; Equipped with At least one of the capsule holder and the orifice plate is movable relative to the other between an open configuration and a closed configuration, whereby In the open configuration, the capsule is movable into and out of the housing; in the closed configuration, the mouth of the body is adjacent to the orifice plate, there is a predefined separation distance between the capsule holder and the mating component, the predefined separation distance being in a direction that is substantially perpendicular to the orifice plate, and a brewing chamber is defined in the housing between the capsule holder and the mating component; The beverage preparation machine further comprises a liquid delivery subsystem configured to supply pressurized liquid to a liquid inlet to the brewing chamber; at least one of the beverage preparation device and the beverage capsule is configured with the chamber engaging portion having a material thickness, whereby at least a part of the flange of the capsule is compressed and clamped between the capsule holder and the fitting component in a closed position, whereby the beverage capsule forms a sealing element for the brewing chamber; Beverage conditioning system.

29. the chamber engaging portion forms the sealing element of the extraction chamber; 29. The beverage preparation system of claim 28.

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