Beverage extraction system

Abstract

A beverage preparation machine system comprising an extraction device and a capsule. The capsule comprises a body and a delivery wall forming a chamber. The extraction device comprises upstream and downstream enclosing parts movable between an open position for inserting / discharging the capsule and a closed position for forming an extraction chamber surrounding the capsule. The downstream part comprises an extraction plate having a pyramidal element that opens the delivery wall. The delivery wall is made of a biodegradable material and comprises a carrier layer that opens due to the pressure increase of the fluid injected into the capsule, and an adhesive layer on the chamber side of the carrier layer that joins the delivery wall to the body. The pyramidal element and the delivery wall interact such that the delivery wall interacts with the pyramidal element, leaving an indentation of the pyramidal element on the surface on the pyramidal element side without causing perforation of the delivery wall. When the injected fluid comes into contact with the surface of the delivery wall on the chamber side, a permeable opening appears in the delivery wall through a cavity in the layers of the delivery wall, and the beverage is discharged and comes into contact with the extraction plate.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of beverage preparation using a system including a single - serving container containing beverage raw materials and a machine having an extraction chamber into which the container is inserted and extraction can be performed.

Background Art

[0002] A system for preparing a beverage comprises a beverage preparation machine and a capsule. The capsule contains a single - serving beverage - forming precursor material, such as ground coffee or tea. The beverage preparation machine is typically configured to perform a beverage preparation process on the capsule by exposing the precursor material to pressurized and heated water. As part of this preparation process, the capsule is guided through the machine by a series of complex interactions for loading, processing, and discharging the capsule, by various mechanisms of the machine and mainly by the flange portion of the capsule. By treating the capsule in this way, the precursor material is at least partially extracted from the capsule as a beverage.

[0003] Single - serving containers for this type of automatic beverage preparation can be made of recyclable or non - recyclable, biodegradable or non - biodegradable materials, such as aluminum, plastic, filter paper, and can be of various forms that can be relatively soft or flexible, such as capsules or pods.

[0004] This configuration of the beverage preparation machine has become popular because it offers improved user convenience compared to conventional beverage preparation machines (e.g., compared to manually operated moka pots / stove - top espresso makers). In this context, the Nespresso® system is very popular.

[0005] Such systems, known as the Nespresso® Original System, and associated capsules are disclosed, for example, in one or more of the following European Patent Publications: 0512468, 0512470, 1646305, or 1165398. These references also disclose details of the structure, manufacture, and / or (beverage) extraction of such aluminum capsules and / or closure members.

[0006] In particular, European Patent Application Publication No. 0512468 discloses such capsules, preferably aluminum capsules, used in such systems. The capsules are intended to be inserted into an extraction device, in which the capsules may be perforated and injected with fluid. The capsules are then opened to a support portion of the device, which has a raised element (in the form of a truncated pyramid), under the influence of the pressure of the fluid entering and rising within the capsule.

[0007] Furthermore, European Patent Application Publication No. 0512470 discloses a method for extracting a capsule under the pressure of a fluid passing through a layer of coffee contained within the capsule, the capsule comprising a membrane that maintains pressure and is torn apart in contact with a raised element of the device's engaging means, allowing the liquid extract to flow into a cup.

[0008] More specifically, during the extraction process, water is supplied into the capsule through an open bottom wall, which increases the pressure inside the capsule. The capsule holder of the beverage machine, equipped with an opening mechanism, is designed to open the lid by its relative engagement with the lid under the influence of this increase in the pressure of the injected liquid in the pod body chamber, and by the expansion of the lid against the perforation mechanism of the opening mechanism.

[0009] Due to the complex movement of the capsule through the machine and its exposure to pressurized and heated water, rigid materials such as aluminum or plastic are required. To date, only aluminum-based capsules have been implemented with high reliability. In fact, other materials have been found to tend to adhere to the machine or cause errors related to those materials. It is desirable to be able to implement capsules with fewer material constraints.

[0010] To propose alternatives to aluminum capsules, it has been suggested today to use capsules made from biodegradable and / or compostable materials, particularly those essentially made from cellulose, such as molded cellulose pulp or paper.

[0011] These new materials impart certain properties, which in turn cause specific problems during beverage preparation and handling of capsules within extraction devices. In particular, opening the capsules and achieving optimal extraction of roasted and ground coffee can be challenging.

[0012] Therefore, despite the efforts already made to develop such compostable capsules, further improvements are desirable, and the object of the present invention is to address the aforementioned existing problems. [Overview of the Initiative]

[0013] As used herein, the terms “machine” or “device” may refer to an electrically operated device or machine capable of preparing beverages and / or food from precursor materials or raw materials, or preparing precursor materials from pre-precursor materials or raw materials that can subsequently be prepared into beverages and / or food. The machine may carry out the above preparations by one or more processes, namely dilution, heating, pressurization, cooling, mixing, frothing, dissolution, immersion, soaking, extraction, adjustment, decoction, crushing, and other similar processes. The machine may be sized for use on a countertop; for example, this preparation machine may have a length, width, and height of less than 70 cm. As used herein, the term “prepare” with respect to beverages and / or food may refer to the preparation of at least a portion of a beverage and / or food (for example, a beverage may be prepared in whole or in part by the machine, and the end user may manually add additional fluids, including milk and / or water, before consumption). Preferably in the present invention, the beverage extraction device is a Nespresso® Original Line Extraction Machine as described above, for example, in one or more of the following: European Patent Publication No. 0512468, European Patent Publication No. 0512470, European Patent Publication No. 1654966, or European Patent Publication No. 2142054.

[0014] The Nespresso® Original Line System, including its extraction unit, perforation element, extraction chamber (capsule cage), and capsule opening element, as well as the process, are disclosed in more detail, for example, in International Publication No. 2005 / 004683, European Patent Application Publication No. 1816935, or European Patent Application Publication No. 2098144.

[0015] As used herein, the terms “container,” “capsule,” or “cartridge” may refer to any configuration for containing a precursor material in pre-portioned amounts, for example, one serving. A container may have a maximum capacity such that it can contain only one serving of the precursor material. A container may be single-use and may undergo physical modification after the preparation process, which may include, for example, a perforation for supplying a fluid, such as water, to the precursor material; a perforation for supplying a beverage / food from the container; or a user opening for extracting the precursor material. A container may be configured to work with a container processing unit of a machine and may include, for example, flanges for alignment and for passing the container through the unit or placing it on the unit. A container may include a burst section configured to burst and dispense a beverage / food when subjected to a certain pressure. A container may have a membrane for closing the container. Containers may have a variety of shapes, including one or more of the following: frustoconical, cylindrical, disc-shaped, hemispherical, and other similar shapes. The container can be formed from a variety of materials, such as metal, plastic, wood pulp, or a combination thereof. Preferably in this invention, the container is a compostable capsule, preferably made of cellulose, and preferably manufactured as a cellulose or wood pulp molded capsule. The material may be selected to be food-safe and able to withstand the pressure and / or temperature of the preparation process. The container may also be defined as a capsule, which may have an internal volume of 20 to 100 mL. The capsule includes coffee capsules, e.g., Nespresso® capsules (including Classic / Original line, Professional, or other capsules).

[0016] As used herein, the terms “system” or “beverage or food preparation system” may refer to any combination of two or more of the following: beverage or food preparation machines, containers, server systems, and peripheral devices.

[0017] As used herein, the term “beverage” may refer to any substance that can be processed into a drinkable substance that may be chilled or heated. A beverage may be one or more of a solid, liquid, gel, or paste. A beverage may be one or a combination of tea, coffee, hot chocolate, milk, juice, vitamin composition, herbal tea / decoction, infused / flavored water; and other substances. As used herein, the term “food” may refer to any substance that can be processed into a nutrient for consumption that may be chilled or heated. A food may be one or more of a solid, liquid, gel, or paste. A food may include yogurt, mousse, parfait, soup, ice cream, sherbet, custard, smoothie, and other substances. There is some overlap between the definitions of beverage and food; for example, a beverage may also be food, and therefore a machine said to prepare a beverage or food does not exclude the preparation of both. Preferably, a beverage is coffee, including roasted and ground coffee.

[0018] As used herein, the term "injection pressure" is expressed in bar and may be defined as the maximum pressure measured at one or more injection points within the capsule during extraction.

[0019] As used herein, the terms “precursor material” or “raw material” may refer to any material that can be processed to form part or all of a beverage or food. A precursor material may be one or more of the following: powder, crystal, liquid, gel, solid, etc. Examples of beverage-forming precursor materials include ground coffee, milk powder; tea leaves, cocoa powder (cocopowder), vitamin compositions, herbs for forming herbal tea / infusion, flavorings, and other similar materials. Examples of food-forming precursor materials include dried vegetables or stocks as anhydrous soup powder; flour-based powders including powdered milk and custard; powdered yogurt or ice cream, and other similar materials. A precursor material may also refer to any pre-precursor material that can be processed into a precursor material as defined above, i.e., any precursor material that can subsequently be processed into a beverage and / or food. In one example, the pre-precursor material includes coffee beans that can be ground and / or heated (e.g., roasted) to become a precursor material. Preferably, within the disclosed extraction process, the precursor material is roasted and ground coffee.

[0020] As used herein, the term “fluid” may include one or more liquids (with respect to the fluid supplied by the fluid conditioning system), such as water, milk, and others.

[0021] As used herein, the expression “compostable material” can be understood as any material that can be broken down into environmentally harmless products by the action of living organisms (microorganisms, e.g., bacteria, fungi, or algae). This process can be carried out in an oxygen-rich environment (aerobic) or an oxygen-deprived environment (anaerobic). This can be understood, for example, as meaning that composting can be carried out without concern. Specifically, at the end of the composting process, there are no material residues that could be problematic to the environment, or any non-biodegradable components. International standards, e.g., EU13432 or US ASTM D6400, specify technical requirements and procedures for determining the compostability of a material.

[0022] As used herein, the term “wood pulp-based” may refer to the material or part of the material forming the container, the container being one or more of the following: porous; fibrous; cellulosic; formed from cellulosic material; formed from natural cellulosic material; formed from reconstituted or regenerated cellulosic material; nonwoven; composed entirely of or being a composition of wood pulp; and wet-molded. The thickness of the wood-based material may be 0.25 mm to 0.75 mm or about 0.5 mm. The wood-based material may be 200 to 400 gsm.

[0023] As used herein, the term “nonwoven” may refer to a cloth-like material that is neither woven nor knitted. Nonwoven materials may be made from fibers that are bound together with each other. As used herein, the term “porous” may refer to a material that is configured to have gaps that allow water (or other liquids) to pass through. As used herein, the term “fibrous” may refer to a material that is composed of fibers that may be present in one or more of its constituent elements. As used herein, the term “cellulose-based” or “cellulose-based material” may refer to conventional woody materials and / or non-woody materials, such as Manila hemp, sisal hemp, jute, bleached and unbleached softwood and hardwood species. Cellulosic materials may include regenerated or reconstituted cellulose. As used herein, the term “natural cellulose-based material” may refer to conventional woody materials that are not regenerated. As used herein, the term “reconstituted or regenerated cellulose-based material” may refer to natural cellulose-based materials that have undergone processing including reconstitution or regeneration, examples of which include rayon and lyocell. As used herein, the term “wood pulp” may refer to a lignocellulose fiber material that can be prepared by mechanically or chemically separating cellulose fibers from one or more of wood, fiber crops, paper, or cloth. As used herein, the term “wet molding” may refer to a process of forming from an aqueous solution of fibers. The aqueous solution of fibers may be heated and pressed in a mold to harden the material and remove the water therefrom.

[0024] The capsules used in the system of the present invention have the same design as Nespresso® Original Line capsules and are made entirely of compostable material, preferably a cellulose-based material, more preferably a pulp-molded cellulose-based material (capsule body and delivery wall). The capsule is in the form of a frustum of a cone and has, for example, a diameter of 2 to 5 cm and an axial length of 2 to 4 cm.

[0025] In alternative embodiments not shown, the capsule may have other cross-sectional shapes including square, other polygons, or ellipses; the closing member may be a rigid structure or other non-membrane structure; the flange may alternatively be connected to the upper surface of the closing member, for example by crimping; the side wall may alternatively be configured to include reverse tapering, depth alignment, or curvature; the base may alternatively be configured to include flatness or curvature; the flange portion is not integrally formed with the storage portion but is connected to the storage portion; the closing member is configured as a storage portion and includes, for example, a cavity; and the flange portion is omitted, for example, the closing member is directly connected to the storage portion.

[0026] A system is provided that includes a beverage preparation machine and a capsule containing a beverage raw material as claimed in claim 1, preferably roasted and ground coffee.

[0027] Specifically, the system includes a beverage preparation machine and a capsule containing a beverage raw material, preferably roasted and ground coffee, The capsule includes a capsule body having a three-dimensional shape including side walls defining a chamber for containing the beverage raw material and a rim portion defining an opening of the side walls, an injection wall for injecting fluid into the chamber to prepare a beverage upon interaction of the fluid with the beverage raw material, and a delivery wall connected to the capsule body for closing the chamber, the delivery wall being made of a biodegradable material and being layered, at least A carrier layer adapted to be opened under the influence of an increase in the pressure of a fluid injected into the capsule, An adhesive layer provided on the side of the chamber of the carrier layer facing the delivery wall for joining or coupling the delivery wall onto the rim portion of the capsule body, preferably by sealing, more preferably by heat sealing, A beverage preparation machine comprises an extraction device for extracting a beverage from the capsule, and the extraction device An upstream capsule surrounding portion and a downstream capsule surrounding portion, which are relatively movable between an open position for inserting and / or discharging the capsule and a closed position for forming an extraction chamber surrounding the capsule during extraction, The upstream portion Supports an upstream punching mechanism for opening the injection wall of the capsule and A fluid injector, The downstream portion comprises an extraction plate engaging with the capsule, and the extraction plate comprises a pyramidal element facing the delivery wall of the capsule in use, During the preparation of the beverage, the extraction device In a first step, surrounds the capsule between the upstream portion surrounding portion and the downstream portion surrounding portion, and then In a second step, is configured to introduce a fluid into the capsule through the fluid injector.

[0028] In the proposed invention, the pyramidal element of the downstream portion and the delivery wall of the capsule In a first step, the delivery wall interacts with the pyramidal element and bears an indentation of the pyramidal element on its surface facing the pyramidal element without causing a visible perforation of the delivery wall, In a second step, when the fluid injected into the capsule contacts the surface of the delivery wall facing the chamber of the capsule, a permeable opening appears in the structure of the delivery wall through a cavity in one or more of the layers of the delivery wall, In a third step, the formed beverage is designed to be discharged from the capsule and contact the extraction plate.

[0029] More specifically, the proposed system comprises a beverage preparation machine and capsules containing beverage ingredients, preferably roasted and ground coffee. However, other ingredients, such as, or ultimately, tea leaves, instant coffee, instant tea, chocolate, cocoa, milk powder, or dried soup, may be considered. In a preferred embodiment, the beverage ingredient is roasted and ground coffee.

[0030] This extraction device is configured to extract beverage raw materials contained in a capsule pod by supplying an extraction liquid, such as water, into the capsule. The device comprises an upstream capsule enclosing portion and a downstream capsule enclosing portion that are relatively movable between an open position for inserting and / or ejecting such capsules and a closed position for forming an extraction chamber that surrounds the capsule during beverage raw material extraction.

[0031] Typically, the capsule can be inserted into the device from above under the influence of gravity. The capsule may also be ejected or removed by gravity when the surrounding portion is reopened.

[0032] The upstream and downstream capsule enclosing portions are relatively movable between an open position for inserting and / or ejecting the pod and a closed position for forming an extraction chamber that encloses the capsule during extraction. In one particular embodiment, the upstream and downstream pod enclosing portions are relatively translational along the longitudinal axis.

[0033] The upstream portion comprises one or more perforators, such as needles or blades, for perforating the injection wall of the inserted capsule, and at least one liquid injector for supplying liquid through the perforated injection wall of the capsule.

[0034] This upstream perforation mechanism may be equipped with a perforator in the form of a blade. These blades can be designed and positioned to perforate the injection wall of the capsule body when the upstream and downstream capsule enclosing portions are in the closed position. A fluid injector located in the upstream portion of the cage, such as a shower, can introduce the extraction fluid through its pre-perforated opening. The extraction fluid is preferably water.

[0035] In an alternative configuration, the upstream piercing mechanism may comprise at least one hollow needle configured to pierce the injection wall of the pod body, and the hollow needle(s) may comprise internal axial channels for guiding the extraction fluid into the capsule chamber.

[0036] The downstream or dispensing section defines a downstream extraction plate having an engagement mechanism for opening the capsule's dispensing wall when the extraction fluid is introduced into the capsule. Typically, this extraction plate is designed to open the dispensing wall by relative engagement with the dispensing wall under the influence of the increasing pressure of the injected fluid in the capsule's chamber and the expansion of the dispensing on the perforation mechanism. The extraction plate is preferably rigid and comprises an extraction plate having a plurality of engagement elements such as spikes or other protrusions that can exhibit a conical or pyramidal shape on its surface facing the second wall. In this case, the engagement elements of the extraction plate include pyramidal elements.

[0037] In addition, the plate is provided with a transverse hole for discharging the beverage dispensed from the dispensing wall to a tube or nozzle that collects the beverage and dispenses it into a drinking cup.

[0038] Typically, the shape of the upstream surrounding portion of an extraction device is defined according to the shape of the pod from which it is configured to be extracted.

[0039] The capsule presented herein is made from compostable material. It comprises a three-dimensional frustoconical capsule body having side walls defining a chamber for containing beverage ingredients and a rim portion defining an opening in the side walls.

[0040] The capsule body is closed on one side by an injection wall for injecting fluid into the chamber to prepare the beverage during the interaction of the fluid with the beverage ingredients, and closed on the other side by a discharge wall.

[0041] In the proposed solution, the injection wall is integrated with the cup body, and the dispensing wall is applied to the rim of the cup body to close the capsule chamber once the beverage ingredients are filled inside the capsule.

[0042] In the proposed embodiment, the capsule delivery wall is also made from a biodegradable material and exhibits a layered structure including at least a carrier layer and an adhesive layer.

[0043] The carrier layer is fabricated from a material adapted to open under the influence of the pressure increase of the fluid injected into the capsule.

[0044] The adhesive layer is provided on the side facing the chamber of the carrier layer to bond the delivery wall to the rim portion of the capsule body, thereby closing the opening of the capsule body.

[0045] Preferably, the dispensing wall is sealed, preferably by heat sealing. However, other methods of joining the dispensing wall to the rim of the capsule body, such as by adhesive bonding, may also be proposed.

[0046] Next, the complete capsule takes the form of a closed container in the shape of a cup that contains the beverage raw materials within its internal chamber, which can result in a more direct recovery of the organic material inside the capsule and the capsule material itself.

[0047] Here, the term "biodegradable material" can be understood as any material that can be broken down into environmentally harmless products by the action of living organisms (microorganisms, such as bacteria, fungi, or algae). This process can be carried out in an oxygen-rich environment (aerobic) or an oxygen-deprived environment (anaerobic). This can be understood as meaning, for example, that composting can be carried out without concern. Specifically, at the end of the composting process, there are no material residues that could be problematic to the environment, or any non-biodegradable components.

[0048] International standards, such as EU13432 or US ASTM D6400, specify technical requirements and procedures for determining the compostability of materials. Biodegradability can be tested according to standards such as ISO 14855, ISO 17556, or ISO 14851. For example, one test requires that at least 90% of the material in question be biologically decomposed within six months under controlled conditions in order to be considered "industrially compostable." Similar tests also exist to enable home composting certification.

[0049] Preferably, as part of the above disclosure, the extraction device is configured such that, as the capsule surrounding portions move relative to each other to surround the capsule within the extraction chamber, at least a portion of the extraction device pushes the capsule so that the capsule's delivery wall faces the extraction plate of the downstream surrounding portion.

[0050] Preferably, in the extraction device, The upstream section defines a cage designed to surround the capsule body and supports an upstream drilling mechanism for opening the bottom wall of the capsule. The downstream portion defines a capsule holder positioned laterally to the closing direction of the extraction device, which comprises an extraction plate that interacts with the capsule delivery wall during beverage extraction.

[0051] Therefore, when the capsule is present within the extraction device, the capsule body is surrounded by the cage in the upstream portion, and the delivery wall extends along the downstream extraction plate equipped with the engaging element. The asymmetrical shape of the capsule offers the advantage of forcing the operator to precisely position the capsule inside the extraction device by making precise use of the delivery wall in front of the downstream extraction plate and the engaging element.

[0052] Generally, an extraction device may include an insertion section for inserting a capsule into the device. Typically, this section is positioned above the upstream and downstream capsule enclosures so that the capsule is inserted between them by gravity. Depending on the shape of the capsule, this insertion section may be designed to prompt the user to position the capsule with its delivery wall facing the engaging element of the extraction plate.

[0053] Conventionally, this beverage machine is equipped with a liquid supply system connected to the upstream enclosure. This liquid supply system is Liquid supply section such as liquid tank, A pump means for supplying liquid from the liquid supply unit to the extraction device, Heating and / or cooling means for adjusting the temperature of the liquid before it is introduced into the pod, It can be equipped with.

[0054] The liquid used is usually water.

[0055] This beverage machine typically includes either a manual or electric actuator to drive the movement of the surrounding portion of the dispensing device.

[0056] Typically, this beverage machine includes a control unit configured to control the supply of liquid to the extraction device and, optionally, the movement of the surrounding portion of the extraction device.

[0057] Typically, this system is configured to extract coffee beverages from capsules containing roasted and ground coffee. The process of preparing coffee beverages from the system involves at least the following steps: In the preliminary step, the capsule is inserted between the upstream and downstream capsule casings, which are positioned in the open position. This operation can be performed manually by the user or automatically by the motor of the beverage machine. Typically, the capsule is received in a capsule holder that holds the capsule between the two capsule casings, which are held apart from each other in the open position. Next, in the first step, the upstream capsule surrounding portion and / or the downstream capsule surrounding portion are moved to a closed position relative to each other to form an extraction chamber that surrounds the capsule for the next extraction. In that step, the outer surfaces of the capsule's injection and delivery walls are in contact with or close to the surfaces of the upstream piercing mechanism and the downstream extraction plate. Typically, the upstream piercing mechanism, such as a blade or hollow needle, pierces the capsule's injection wall unless this upstream piercing mechanism is retractable and movable in a further step. Next, in the second step, the extracted water is injected by a liquid injector through a hole drilled into the inside of the capsule's injection wall by the upstream perforation mechanism. Once the water is injected, it fills the capsule's chamber. The pressure rises until the capsule's delivery wall opens.

[0058] As mentioned above, the opening of the capsule and the delivery of the extracted beverage are carried out in a three-step process. In the first step, the delivery wall interacts with the pyramidal element. The delivery wall acquires an indentation of the pyramidal element on its surface facing the element without causing any visible perforation of the delivery wall. In the second step, when the fluid injected into the capsule comes into contact with the surface of the delivery wall facing the capsule's chamber, the permeable opening appears within the structure of the delivery wall through a cavity in one or more of the layers of the delivery wall. In the third step, the formed beverage is discharged from the capsule and comes into contact with the extraction plate.

[0059] Surprisingly, in the proposed compostable capsule and the presented compostable discharge wall, the interaction between the discharge wall and the pyramidal element (resulting from fluid injection as well as pressure rinsing inside the capsule) does not result in rupture due to tearing of the discharge wall by direct dispensing of the extracted beverage. In fact, even when the discharge wall expands due to the pressure increase and engages with the pyramidal element, exhibiting indentations and shapes of the engaging element on the extraction plate, there is no visible perforation or rupture of the discharge wall.

[0060] As the fluid under pressure fills the capsule's chamber and the pressure inside the capsule rises, the side of the delivery wall facing the chamber comes into contact with the fluid, and a permeable opening appears within the structure of the delivery wall.

[0061] The combination of layers of the discharge wall stretched against the pyramidal elements and the development of permeable cavities in several layers of the discharge wall allows for the gradual opening of the capsule, from which the extracted beverage is discharged in a third step. After being discharged through the discharge wall, the extracted beverage comes into contact with the extraction plate, which is involved in the formation of the crema.

[0062] Specifically, in the system of the present invention, the pyramidal elements of the extraction plate and the delivery wall of the capsule are designed such that, in the first step, the pyramidal elements do not perforate or tear the delivery wall during their relative engagement under the influence of the expansion of the delivery wall to the pyramidal elements after the pressure of the fluid injected into the capsule and the pressure inside the capsule have reached at least 6 bar, preferably at least 8 bar.

[0063] Preferably, the capsule's delivery wall begins to open according to the process disclosed above after the pressure inside the capsule reaches at least 8 bar.

[0064] The carrier layer is made from compostable materials and / or defined materials having a closed fibrous structure, for example, at least 50% by weight of softwood pulp, cellulose fibers, paper or polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), polyhydroxybutyrates (PHB) and copolymers, polybutylene succinates (PBS / PBS-A), biopolyesters, cellulose acetate, starch, polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH), polymers in which at least one monomer unit is vinyl alcohol, compounds of the above materials and / or fibrous structures corresponding to laminates.

[0065] Preferably, the carrier layer is made from a paper-based material and has a basis weight of 20 to 150 g / m2, preferably 30 to 100 g / m2.

[0066] The properties of the carrier layer can be adjusted as needed. For example, the tensile strength of the carrier layer can be improved by increasing the basis weight of the material.

[0067] According to the use of capsules in a beverage preparation machine that can supply a certain amount of fluid into the capsule under pressure, the carrier layer, preferably the material of the carrier layer, is configured to be elastic to the accumulated pressure in the chamber of 1 to 20 bar, more preferably 6 to 20 bar, and most preferably 10 to 18 bar.

[0068] In addition to the above, the delivery wall may comprise additional layers besides the carrier layer and the adhesive layer. These additional layers may be inserted between the carrier layer and the adhesive layer as needed and according to their function.

[0069] The different layers are preferably made from different materials that distinguish each other in at least one of their respective physical properties, such as tensile strength, ductility, elasticity, puncture resistance, density, porosity, and / or, where applicable, fiber structure and / or fiber orientation.

[0070] Particularly preferably, the dispensing wall further includes a filter layer for filtering particles from the prepared beverage dispensed through the dispensing wall, the filter layer being located on the side opposite to the chamber with respect to the carrier layer.

[0071] The filter layer is made from a compostable material and / or nonwoven material different from the carrier layer, such as wood pulp or sugarcane pulp, cellulose fibers, rayon fibers, polybutylene succinate (PBS), poly(butylene succinate-co-butylene adipate) (PBS-A / PBSa), polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB), and / or polylactic acid (PLA).

[0072] The filter layer may have a basis weight of 10 to 150 g / m2, preferably 20 to 100 g / m2. Having a filter layer with this basis weight ensures efficient filtration of all particles of the substance sealed in the capsule chamber, such as roasted and ground coffee.

[0073] In addition, the delivery wall further includes a barrier layer to provide a preferably bidirectional barrier to moisture and / or gas, the barrier layer preferably being made of a different material from the filter layer and / or carrier layer.

[0074] In the proposed delivery wall structure, the barrier layer is applied between the carrier layer and the adhesive layer, to the surface of the carrier layer facing the chamber of the capsule body.

[0075] The barrier layer (34) is made from a biodegradable and preferably compostable material, such as a biopolymer, polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH), butenediol vinyl alcohol copolymer (BVOH), or a polymer or copolymer in which at least one monomer unit is vinyl alcohol, and compounds or laminates of the above materials.

[0076] In the proposed delivery wall structure comprising a filter layer, a carrier layer, and a barrier layer made from previously proposed materials, the oxygen permeability (OTR) of the delivery wall is less than 35 cc / m2 / day when measured according to the ASTM D3985 / ISO 15105 methodology, which makes it possible to extend the shelf life of the capsule by reducing the oxidation of the beverage raw materials filled in the capsule.

[0077] Moving on to further details of the proposed system, the pyramidal elements of the extraction plate are designed to provide a truncated pyramidal apex portion, and as a result, the capsule delivery wall, In the first step of beverage preparation, the pyramidal element is stretched, preferably by the truncated pyramidal apex portion of the pyramidal element. In the second step of beverage preparation, permeability is achieved through cavity formation without a tearing effect.

[0078] The cavity formed in the capsule's delivery wall is preferably located primarily in close proximity to the top of the truncated pyramidal element. This location corresponds to the portion of the delivery wall that is most stretched during its interaction with the pyramidal element.

[0079] Preferably, the majority of the permeable cavity has a size in the range of 0.0001 mm² to 0.0040 mm². The size of these openings visible in the adhesive layer of the dispensing wall is sufficient to ensure that the extracted beverage is discharged to the outside of the capsule and the beverage is poured to the consumer.

[0080] The proposed delivery wall includes a carrier layer, an adhesive layer, a filter layer, and a barrier layer.

[0081] However, the delivery wall may also include multiple different layers, which may preferably be made from different materials. This can have the advantageous effect of creating a structure with different additional properties arising from each of the individual components by combining two or more constituent materials with different physical or chemical properties. This allows the interface of the capsule with the outside to be tailored to the technical needs of the application. For example, by providing each layer with a different tensile strength, the pressure accumulated inside the capsule can be controlled and defined as needed. This allows the capsule to be designed to produce a beverage according to the specifications of its recipe. Furthermore, by providing two layers from materials with different fiber compositions, it is possible to tailor the material properties related to the interaction of the delivery wall with the prepared beverage to individual applications, such as defining the filtration capacity of the delivery wall. Also, differences in the orientation of the individual layers of the delivery wall may result in different stresses within the layers, which can be taken into account in the above configuration by selecting different materials. For example, one material in one layer may break at a lower pressure than the material in another layer, but the structure can be maintained together by the combined resistance of each material, which can support each other under the influence of pressure.

[0082] One or more of the different layers of the delivery wall, namely the carrier layer, filter layer, adhesive layer, and barrier layer, are laminated with the other layers of the delivery wall. Lamination of one or more of the aforementioned layers makes it possible to manufacture a blank foil that is cut or perforated to form the delivery wall. Depending on the dimensions of the blank, several delivery walls may be formed from the same blank.

[0083] Additional layers, such as a bonding layer for specific coupling between the carrier layer and the filter layer, and / or a protective layer applied between the barrier layer and the adhesive layer to protect the barrier layer and enhance its efficiency, may complete the delivery wall structure.

[0084] The present invention also relates to the use of capsules in a beverage preparation machine according to the system of the present invention.

[0085] In this use, the capsule comprises a capsule body having a three-dimensional shape defining a chamber for containing beverage raw materials, and an injection wall and a discharge wall connected to the capsule body and closing the chamber, wherein the discharge wall comprises at least one carrier layer adapted to open under the influence of the pressure increase of the fluid injected into the capsule, and an adhesive layer provided on the side of the carrier layer facing the chamber for joining the discharge wall (30) onto the capsule body.

[0086] The capsule's delivery wall is designed such that, as the upstream and downstream capsule enclosures of the beverage preparation machine surround the capsule and the fluid is injected into the capsule, the extraction plate of the downstream enclosure interacts with the delivery wall without causing any visible perforation of the delivery wall. When the surface of the delivery wall facing the chamber comes into contact with the fluid injected into the capsule, a permeable opening appears within the structure of the delivery wall, allowing the beverage to be discharged to the outside of the capsule.

[0087] The above embodiments of the present invention can be combined in any preferred combination. Furthermore, by combining various features described herein with one or more of the above embodiments, combinations other than those specifically illustrated and described can be provided. Further objects and advantageous features of the present invention will become apparent from the "Claims," ​​"Modes for Carrying Out the Invention," and the accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0088] Specific embodiments of the present invention are further described herein by reference to the following drawings. [Figure 1A] This diagram shows a schematic of an existing coffee brewing system that allows for the convenient preparation of coffee beverages by extracting capsules containing roasted and ground coffee within a beverage preparation machine. [Figure 1B] Figure 1A shows a schematic diagram of the system with the beverage preparation machine closed and capsules being extracted inside the beverage preparation machine. [Figure 2]This graph shows the extraction curves for a series of (ristretto) aluminum capsules in a conventional Nespresso® Inissia machine. [Figure 3] Figures 1A and 1B show enlarged views of the delivery wall of the aluminum capsule extracted in the beverage preparation machine shown, and Figure 2 shows the extraction curve. [Figure 4] This shows a schematic exploded view of a capsule used in a system according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] An enlarged schematic cross-sectional view of the capsule delivery wall used in the system according to an additional proposed embodiment is shown. [Figure 6A] Figure 5 shows a magnified view of the capsule delivery wall, as seen from the filter layer side, before capsule extraction. [Figure 6B] Figure 5 shows a magnified view of the capsule delivery wall, as seen from the adhesive layer side, before capsule extraction. [Figure 7] The graph shows the extraction curves for a series of pulped, compostable capsules similar to those in Figure 4, including the delivery wall shown in Figure 5, extracted using a Nespresso® Inissia machine. [Figure 8] Figure 7 shows a magnified view of the delivery wall, seen from the filter layer side, after one of the capsules shown in the extraction curve has been extracted. [Figure 9] Figure 7 shows a series of magnified views of the delivery wall, as seen from the adhesive layer side, at different scales for one capsule at two extraction times, as indicated by the curve. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0089] Before describing some embodiments of the system, it should be understood that the system of the present invention, as well as the disclosed capsules and methods, are not limited to the construction or process details described below. Those skilled in the art who benefit from this disclosure will see that other embodiments of the system of the present invention are possible and can be implemented or performed in a variety of ways.

[0090] As used herein, the words “comprises,” “comprising,” and similar words should not be interpreted as exclusive or exhaustive. In other words, they are intended to mean “includes, but not limited to.”

[0091] No reference in this specification to prior art documents should be considered to acknowledge that such prior art is well known or that it forms part of the common general knowledge in the art.

[0092] This disclosure may be better understood in consideration of the following explanation.

[0093] Figures 1A and 1B schematically illustrate an exemplary Nespresso® system used in extraction capsules for making beverages, such as coffee beverages. The extraction device 10 comprises an extraction module 11 (also disclosed as an extraction chamber) for extracting coffee from one capsule 2 at a time. The extraction module 11 comprises a receiving means in the form of a downstream enclosing portion, also called a support base or collector 112, and an upstream enclosing portion, also called an injection portion 111, which includes a fluid injector 1111. The support base 112 and the injection portion 111 define an internal volume for receiving the capsule 2 when the two portions are closed. The support base 112 houses an extraction plate 1120, which comprises an engaging means configured to engage with the delivery wall 30 of the capsule 2 when the fluid pressure increases inside the capsule, in addition to injecting water into the capsule 2 under pressure. The engaging means of the extraction plate 1120 may comprise convex means, such as a series of protruding elements in the form of a pyramidal element 1122. Alternatively, a network of elongated ribs or needles may be provided on the surface of the extraction plate.

[0094] The coffee extract is primarily filtered through a very narrow gap formed between the pyramidal elements 1122 and the edges of the membrane openings. The extraction plate 1120 is provided with a series of openings (not shown) for draining the extract and ultimately retaining any solid coffee particles. The openings may be provided through the plate in channels formed between the pyramidal elements 1122, or alternatively, through the protruding elements themselves.

[0095] The device further comprises at least one fluid line 42 that can supply fluid into capsule 2 via a fluid injector 1111. The fluid injector 1111 may comprise one or more needles or blades that form one or more passages for water to enter the capsule. The fluid is supplied to the line under pressure by a pump 43. The pump may be an electromagnetic piston pump or any suitable water pump mechanism such as a diaphragm pump or a pressurized head system. A fluid reservoir 44 may be installed upstream of the pump 43 to allow supplying a sufficient amount of fluid to deliver fluid for extracting more than one capsule. Preferably, the reservoir holds more than 750 mL of water to eliminate the inconvenience of repeatedly refilling the reservoir after several extraction cycles. A heating system 45 may be installed along the line between the fluid reservoir 44 and the extraction module 11 to heat the fluid to the required temperature. The heater is configured to heat the water to an extraction temperature of 70-100°C. It may be an instantaneous heating device such as a thermoblock or ceramic capsule. The reservoir may be a boiler or similar device that can keep the fluid warm or hot. A control panel with switches also typically helps to automatically start the extraction cycle. Different controls such as temperature sensors, timers, flow meters, pressure sensors, vanes, and probes can be added to control and monitor the extraction operation.

[0096] In this disclosure, the coffee capsule 2 has a body 20 in the form of a cup-shaped body and generally comprises an injection wall 22 and side walls 21 made of a material such as aluminum and / or plastic. The capsule also includes a membrane, also called an aluminum discharge wall 30, which closes the capsule on the side opposite the injection wall 22.

[0097] As shown in Figure 1A, once the extraction module 11 is closed around the capsule 2 and the capsule is positioned within the module, the delivery wall 30 is positioned adjacent to, or at a short distance from, the engaging means in the form of the pyramidal element 1122 of the extraction plate 1120. The delivery wall 30 of the capsule 2 remains closed until a specific opening pressure is generated inside the capsule by the water entering the capsule. The delivery wall 30 and the engaging means are configured not to form an accidental opening before extraction begins. Thus, when water is pumped into the capsule by the pumping means 45, internal pressure builds up inside the capsule, causing the delivery wall 30 to deform and press against the pyramidal element 1122 of the extraction plate until it is perforated or torn open. Capsule 2 typically begins to open at a specific popping pressure of about 8 bar, but the pressure continues to increase, generally up to a maximum pressure of 10-15 bar (Pmax), due to the compression of the layer of ground coffee inside the capsule and the pressure drop caused by the narrow opening that tears or perforates the capsule membrane. The pressure level then flattens to the extraction pressure, also known as the equilibrium pressure (Peq), which is typically a few bar higher than the popping pressure and then drops when the pump is shut off. The overall pressure loss is typically the sum of the pressure loss caused by the compressed layer of coffee and the pressure loss caused by the combination of the small opening through the delivery wall 30 and the extraction plate 1120 of the extraction device.

[0098] A pump has a fixed performance characteristic curve, which means that it delivers a specific flow rate of water when the pump must overcome a specific pressure downstream depending on the characteristics of the capsule (particle size distribution, membrane, etc.).

[0099] "Engaging means" refers to an element of the extraction plate (or capsule in a particular system) that has the function of engaging with or pressing the membrane in order to provide a specific pressure loss that allows for delaying the release of coffee from the capsule. The engaging means can take various forms that can provide a certain pressure loss, such as a central needle or multiple needles, or a plate having multiple protrusions such as a pyramidal element and / or bumps, or a filter plate, or other physical obstruction, together with the delivery wall (membrane).

[0100] Figure 2 shows the extraction pressure curves over time for a series of aluminum capsules 2 as described above. As can be seen from the figure, the extraction pressure curves, even if they follow nearly identical curves, exhibit some variation in the maximum pressure Pmax and equilibrium pressure Peq. Pmax can vary between 9 and 15 bar, and Peq at 20 seconds, like Peq at 15 seconds, can vary between 9 and 14 bar. Capsule opening generally occurs between 3 and 5 seconds after water is injected into the capsule, and the popping pressure falls between 6 and 8 bar.

[0101] Figure 3 shows the aluminum delivery wall 30 of an aluminum capsule 2 currently available after extraction in a Nespresso® beverage preparation machine as shown in Figures 1A and 1B. As can be seen from the figure, the opening in the delivery wall 30, and therefore in the capsule 2, is caused by material deformation of the delivery wall 30 and, as a result, tearing of the pyramidal element 1122 of the extraction plate 1120 in the extraction chamber 11. The opening is visible to the naked eye, allowing for a clear understanding of how the capsule functions and how the coffee is extracted.

[0102] Figure 4 shows a schematic exploded view of a capsule made from a biodegradable, preferably compostable, material used in the claimed system, and Figure 5 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a possible structure of the capsule's delivery wall used in the system of the proposed invention.

[0103] The elements of capsule 2 already presented in connection with the disclosure in Figure 1A have the same reference numerals.

[0104] The main difference between capsule 2 in Figure 1A and capsule 2 in Figure 4 is that capsule 2 in Figure 4 is made from a biodegradable, preferably compostable, material.

[0105] The compostable capsule 2 in Figure 4 may have a composite structure and / or be made from a composite material, which may preferably be made from a completely biodegradable and / or compostable material.

[0106] Capsule 2 comprises a three-dimensional capsule body 20 having side walls 21. The capsule body 20 may have any shape or form; for example, the capsule body may have a cup-shaped body. For example, the capsule body 20 may have a form suitable for capsule 2 to be inserted into the extraction chamber (or module) 11 of a (known) beverage dispensing machine, such as a Nespresso® beverage dispensing machine, as disclosed in relation to Figures 1A and 1B. The capsule body 20 may have a truncated, cup-shaped, or bowl-shaped form. The capsule body 20 may have a circular cross-section. This allows, for example, pressure-related forces acting on the capsule body 20 to be absorbed.

[0107] The capsule body 20 includes side walls 21. The side walls 210 define a chamber 25 inside the capsule 2. The side walls 21 may be provided to enclose a continuous space inside the capsule body 20.

[0108] Chamber 25 is configured to receive and store substance 50 for the preparation of a beverage. Here, substance 50 can be any type of substance (solid, liquid, at least partially soluble and / or permeable) having a specific or distinct chemical structure. Examples of substance 50 may be roasted and ground coffee, instant coffee, tea leaves, syrup concentrates, fruit extract concentrates, chocolate products, dried food substances, and / or combinations thereof. Thus, examples of beverages that can be prepared may be coffee or chocolate-based beverages, or other similar types of foods. However, the above examples of substance 500 and beverages should not be considered an exhaustive list. Instead, various other examples are possible.

[0109] The capsule body 20 may have an opening 23 to the chamber 25. The opening 23 may be located at at least one of the ends of the capsule body 20. For example, the substance 50 may be filled into the capsule 2 through the opening 23. Preferably, a rim portion 211 of the side wall 210 can define the opening 23. The rim portion 211 has the form of a flange and may extend from the side wall 21, preferably away from the chamber 25. During operation, the capsule 2 may be placed on the rim portion 211 inside the capsule holder of the beverage generating machine.

[0110] The side wall 21 may be provided to form a continuous mantle surface of the capsule body 20. For example, the side wall 21 may have an inner surface facing the chamber 25 and an outer surface facing away from the chamber 25.

[0111] A protective layer 26, also called a liner, for providing a preferably bidirectional barrier to moisture and / or oxygen for substance 50 may be provided on the capsule body 20 and / or sidewalls 21. In Figure 1, the protective layer 26 is shown exemplary as being provided as a liner on the inner surface of the sidewalls 21 and may extend to and cover the rim portion 211. The protective layer 26 may be provided additionally or alternatively on the outer surface of the sidewalls 21. Additionally or alternatively, the protective layer may be provided as a coating having similar barrier properties. Here, the protective layer 26 may be made from biodegradable and preferably compostable materials such as PHB and copolymers, PBS, PBS-A, PLA, PBAT, cellulose acetate, starch, PVOH, and any polymer or copolymer in which at least one monomer unit is vinyl alcohol (e.g., BVOH, butenediol vinyl alcohol), and any compound or laminate of any of the above materials. Preferably, the protective layer 26 may be made from food-safe materials (FCS, FCM).

[0112] For example, the capsule body 20 may be made from (laminated) (wet / dry) molded pulp fibers. Preferably, the capsule body 20 may be made from biodegradable and / or compostable materials. The capsule body 20 may be made from food-safe materials (FCS, FCM). The capsule body 20 may have a layered and / or laminated structure. For example, the capsule body 20 may be relatively rigid or stiff so as not to collapse during operation in a beverage dispensing machine or during storage. A layered and / or laminated design may provide the capsule body 20 with additional rigidity and / or stiffness compared to other designs. Here, the molded pulp fibers may be a composite material having an additional base material such as a biodegradable resin laminated on the capsule body 20. For example, a laminated structure of the capsule body 20 may be formed by providing a protective layer 26. However, the capsule body 20 may also include further laminated films or layers in addition to the protective layer 26, for example.

[0113] Alternatively, the capsule body 20 may be made from a paper-based material, or from a paper-based material having a laminate specifically molded to define the chamber 25.

[0114] Capsule 2 is equipped with an injection wall 22 for injecting fluid into the chamber 25 to prepare a beverage during the interaction of the fluid with substance 50. This is illustrated in Figure 4.

[0115] The injection wall 22 may be provided at the end of the capsule body 20 opposite to the opening 23. The injection wall 22 may be provided integrally with the capsule body 20 or separately. Thus, the capsule body 20 and the injection wall 22 may consist of separate parts or may be formed integrally as a single part. The injection wall 22 may form a tapered end of the capsule body 20. The injection wall 22 may be configured to be perforated by the blade of a coffee maker, thereby providing an opening for fluid injection. Preferably, the fluid may be a liquid such as water or milk, or a liquid / gas mixture. Similar to the capsule body 20, the injection wall 22 may also have the protective layer 26 described above. The injection wall 22 may also have a (small) opening into which the blade of the coffee maker can penetrate and perforate the protective layer 26. Similar to the capsule body 20, the injection wall 22 may have a layered and / or laminated structure and may be made from (laminated) molded pulp fibers and / or food-safe materials (FCS, FCM).

[0116] The capsule body 20 and injection wall 22 may be arranged such that the chamber 25 is preferably closed (sealed) from at least three sides, as shown in Figure 6. The capsule body 20 and injection wall 22 may also be arranged such that the injected fluid is uniformly dispersed within the chamber 25 along the side walls 21.

[0117] In the disclosure of Figure 4, the capsule 2 includes a delivery wall 30 connected to the capsule body 20 to close the chamber 25.

[0118] The discharge wall 30 is arranged in layers, as illustrated in Figures 4 and 5. There is no limit to the number of (different) layers that the discharge wall 30 may have.

[0119] The discharge wall 30 is flat. The word "flat" means that the discharge wall 30 extends substantially within a single plane. In other words, the discharge wall 30 extends within a single plane, but can be deformed within a convex or concave plane depending on the relative pressure between the inside and outside of the capsule. In particular, the raw materials contained within (e.g., roasted and ground coffee) may generate gases such as carbon dioxide over the storage period of the pod. In this case, overpressure can be created inside the capsule, causing the initially flat discharge wall to bulge outward. For example, if the capsule is formed, filled, and sealed in a factory near sea level, and then the capsule is transported at a higher altitude where atmospheric pressure is lower, the atmospheric pressure may also change around the capsule. In such a case, the initially flat discharge wall may become concave and deflect inward.

[0120] As shown in Figure 4, the discharge wall is A carrier layer 32 adapted to open under the influence of the pressure increase of the fluid injected into the capsule, The carrier layer 32 includes an adhesive layer 33 provided on the side facing the chamber 25 in order to join the delivery wall 30 to the rim portion 211 of the capsule body 20.

[0121] Both the carrier layer 32 and the adhesive layer 33 were originally made from biodegradable materials, but are now made from different materials.

[0122] The carrier layer 32 is made from a biodegradable material. Preferably, the carrier layer 32 may also be made from a compostable material and / or a food-safe material (FCS, FCM). Additionally or alternatively, the material of the carrier layer 320 may have a defined fibrous structure, such as a closed fibrous structure. For example, the material of the carrier layer 320 may have a fibrous structure in which at least 50% by weight corresponds to softwood pulp. Further examples of the material of the carrier layer 320 may be one or any combination of the group of polymers in which cellulose fibers, paper, biopolyesters, PHA, PHB and copolymers, PBS, PBS-A, PVOH and / or monomer units are vinyl alcohol.

[0123] In this case, the carrier layer 32 may be paper or supercalender paper with closed holes that allow the pressure inside the capsule to be maintained during extraction.

[0124] The carrier layer 32 is adapted to open under the influence of the pressure increase of the fluid injected into the capsule 2 during extraction in the beverage preparation machine. The carrier layer 32 may be a film, membrane, or ply having a defined thickness and preferably a substantially flat surface.

[0125] The carrier layer 32 may be provided to be elastic to the accumulated pressure in the chamber 25, preferably 1 to 20 bar, more preferably 10 to 20 bar, and most preferably 12 to 18 bar. In particular, the material of the carrier layer 32 may be configured to be elastic to the pressure accumulated in the chamber 25 within such a pressure range. Here, the thickness and density of the material may affect the rigidity of the carrier layer 32, i.e., its resistance to bending. The carrier layer 32 may have a material thickness of 10 to 150 micrometers, preferably 30 to 70 micrometers. Alternatively or additionally, the carrier layer 32 may have a basis weight of 20 to 150 g / m2, preferably 40 to 100 g / m2. Preferably, the carrier layer 32 may be attached to the capsule body 20 (rim portion 211) preferably by heat sealing or adhesive bonding.

[0126] As described above, the delivery wall 30 also includes an adhesive layer 33 for bonding the delivery wall 30 to the capsule body 20. As described above, and also as an integral component, the delivery wall 30 can be connected to the rim portion 211 of the capsule body 200 to close the chamber 25, thereby forming a closed capsule 2. This can be achieved, for example, by heat sealing or adhesive connection.

[0127] Therefore, in the proposed embodiment, an adhesive layer 33 may be provided between the carrier layer 32 of the delivery wall 30 and the capsule body 20, and the capsule body 200 (adhesive layer) and the delivery wall 300 may be bonded (joined) to each other.

[0128] More precisely, as shown in Figure 4, the adhesive layer 33 is provided on the carrier layer 32.

[0129] The adhesive layer 33 may include one or more adhesive layers 33a, 33b, etc. (as shown in Figure 5), and may be incorporated into the delivery wall 300, especially when incorporated into a laminated structure.

[0130] The total thickness of the adhesive layer 33 applied to one or more layers 33a, 30b is between 1 and 30 micrometers, preferably between 10 and 15 micrometers. In the proposed embodiment, the thickness is approximately 10 to 13 micrometers.

[0131] The adhesive layer forming material may be a biodegradable (and preferably compostable) material such as plant-based starch or acrylic adhesive. In this embodiment, the adhesive layer 330 is a polymer made of an acrylic adhesive.

[0132] From the above explanation, the adhesive layer 33 is therefore made from a different material than the carrier layer 32.

[0133] The material of this adhesive layer is preferably hydrophobic.

[0134] Furthermore, the selected material is water-insoluble to avoid interaction with the moisture content of the beverage substance 50, which may be, for example, roasted and ground coffee, and the resulting degradation.

[0135] As mentioned above, this material is applied in one or more layers. The total amount of adhesive material applied around the carrier layer is between 0.5 and 20 gsm. This ensures that sufficient adhesive material is applied to the carrier layer 32 for efficient and tight sealing of the delivery wall 30 on the rim portion 211 of the capsule body 20.

[0136] One or more adhesive layers may be applied as a coating, for example, a water-based coating.

[0137] In addition to the carrier layer 32 and adhesive layer 33 already disclosed, the delivery wall 30 may further comprise one of the filter layer 31, barrier layer 34, bonding layer 36, and protective layer 35.

[0138] Figure 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a second embodiment of the capsule delivery wall of Figure 6 that may be used in the system according to the proposed invention.

[0139] The discharge wall 33 in Figure 5 includes a filter layer 31, a bonding layer 36, a carrier layer 32, a barrier layer 34, a protective layer 35, and an adhesive layer 33.

[0140] The main features of the carrier layer 32 and the adhesive layer 33 have already been described in relation to Figure 4, and they may exhibit the same features and properties when incorporated into the delivery wall 30 in Figure 5.

[0141] The filter layer 31, as described in relation to Figure 5, is positioned on the opposite side of the chamber 25 from the carrier layer 32. This particular order and orientation of the carrier and filter layers relative to the capsule body results in several improvements. For example, the pressure profile during beverage preparation is observed to be more consistent and reproducible. Furthermore, this configuration improves crema formation and extraction in the beverage, and the concentration of particles and residues of substances such as roasted and ground coffee is reduced. The specific position of the filter also allows for a more flexible opening and prevents back cracking.

[0142] As a result of the above, the carrier layer may face the chamber, or it may be located closer to the chamber than the filter layer. Here, for example, the expression "face" does not necessarily mean that it must be located directly on each reference object, but can be understood as being directed toward each reference object.

[0143] The filter layer 31 is made from compostable and / or nonwoven materials such as wood or sugarcane pulp, cellulose fibers, rayon fibers, polybutylene succinate (PBS), poly(butylene succinate-co-butylene adipate) (PBS-A / PBSa), polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB), and / or polylactic acid (PLA).

[0144] The filter layer 31 has a total basis weight of 10 to 150 g / m2, preferably 20 to 100 g / m2, to ensure efficient filtration of all particles of the substance sealed in the capsule chamber, such as roasted and ground coffee.

[0145] This allows the properties of the filter layer to be defined by defining the area density of the material, i.e., the mass per unit area. For example, the tensile strength of the filter layer can be improved by increasing the basis weight of the material and / or by using a (nonwoven) material containing fibers of a defined length and / or having defined fiber bonds. Furthermore, the filtration capacity and / or porosity of the filter layer can be modified by appropriately setting the material properties of the filter layer, for example, by reducing the particle size. This makes it possible to tailor the filter layer to specific requirements.

[0146] The barrier layer 34 incorporated into the proposed delivery wall structure is applied to the surface of the carrier layer facing the chamber of the capsule body.

[0147] The barrier layer 34 is preferably made from a biodegradable and preferably compostable material such as a biopolymer, polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH), butenediol vinyl alcohol copolymer (BVOH), or any vinyl alcohol copolymer in which at least one monomer unit is vinyl alcohol, and compounds or laminates of the above materials.

[0148] Preferably, the barrier layer is made from a different material than the filter layer and / or carrier layer. This allows for the benefit of the different material properties of both the filter layer and the carrier layer.

[0149] Therefore, in the proposed discharge wall structure comprising a filter layer, a carrier layer, and a barrier layer made from the previously proposed materials, the oxygen permeability (OTR) of the discharge wall (300) is less than 35 cc / m2 / day when measured according to the ASTM D3985 / ISO 15105 methodology.

[0150] By adding the protective layer 35 described above, the characteristics of the delivery wall can be further improved. The protective layer 35 extends onto the surface of the barrier layer facing the capsule chamber to protect the barrier layer. This ensures that the barrier layer is completely protected.

[0151] The protective layer is applied in one or more layers with a total amount of 0.1 to 5 gsm (g / m2), preferably 2 to 3.5 gsm (g / m2), and a maximum total thickness of 5 microns.

[0152] The protective layer is made from a biodegradable and preferably compostable material, such as plant-based starch or an acrylic adhesive polymer.

[0153] Furthermore, the protective layer is preferably water-insoluble to avoid degradation due to the moisture content of the substance sealed in the chamber. The protective layer is preferably made from a different material than the filter layer and / or carrier layer to ensure proper separation of the physicochemical properties of the different layers.

[0154] As described above, as shown in Figure 5, the bonding layer 36 is interposed between the carrier layer 32 and the filter layer 31, joining them by adhesive bonding or heat sealing. Thus, the carrier layer 32 and the filter layer 31 are at least partially joined to each other on their opposite sides, that is, on their sides facing each other thanks to the bonding layer 36.

[0155] The bonding layer 36 is made from one or more bonding layers and provides an adhesive bond between the carrier layer 32 and the filter layer 31, ensuring efficient bonding of the two aforementioned layers.

[0156] The binding layer is also biodegradable, preferably a compostable material such as plant-based starch or acrylic adhesive, and contributes to the complete biodegradability of the capsule.

[0157] The bonding strength of the bonding layer 36 may vary depending on the materials of the filter layer 31 and the carrier layer 32.

[0158] As can be seen in Figure 5, the adhesive layer 33 does not cover the entire surface of the delivery wall 30. The adhesive layer has a limited radial extension (starting from around the delivery wall) and extends only over the periphery of the carrier layer, and over the entire periphery of it. The extension of the adhesive layer 33 over the periphery of the carrier layer 32 extends over at least a radial distance D.

[0159] The radial distance D must be at least equal to, and preferably slightly greater than, the radial extension of the rim portion 211 to which the delivery wall 30 is sealed. In the proposed embodiment shown in Figure 4, the radial distance D of the extension of the adhesive layer is between 3 mm and 12 mm, preferably between 5 mm and 10 mm, thereby providing adequate sealing around the carrier layer on the rim portion 211.

[0160] In the proposed disclosure, the adhesive layer 33 clearly covers less than 50% of the surface of the carrier layer 32.

[0161] As shown in Figure 5, one or more adhesive layers 33 are applied only around the periphery of the carrier layer 32, over a radial distance D of approximately 7 mm. This radial distance D may vary between 3 and 12 mm, but is preferably limited to a value slightly greater than the radial extension of the rim portion. As illustrated, to improve control of extraction parameters, and to allow for easier opening of the dispensing wall 30 and interaction with the opening element of the beverage generating machine, no adhesive layer is present in the center of the carrier layer.

[0162] The surface of the carrier layer 32 covered by the adhesive layer 33 may be limited to the periphery of the delivery wall 30, with an extension of a radial distance D from the peripheral edge of the carrier layer 320 of the delivery wall 30. However, other beneficial configurations may be implemented.

[0163] In the proposed embodiment, the adhesive layer is a heat-seal layer 33 that can be sealed onto the rim portion 211 by the application of localized heat. Sealing of the delivery wall 30 on the rim portion of the capsule 2 is performed around the entire perimeter of the delivery wall.

[0164] As described above, preferably, each of the filter layer, barrier layer, and carrier layer is made from different biodegradable, preferably compostable, materials, and preferably, the different materials are distinguished in at least one of their respective physical properties, such as tensile strength, ductility, elasticity, puncture resistance, density, porosity, and / or, where applicable, fiber structure and / or fiber orientation.

[0165] Figures 6A and 6B both show magnified views of the capsule delivery wall of Figure 5, which has the described layered structure, viewed from the side of the filter layer 31 and the side of the adhesive layer 33, respectively, before extraction of capsule 2. The magnified views were obtained using an optical microscope, e.g., Keyence VHX-7000. The magnification scale is indicated in the figures themselves.

[0166] Figure 6A shows the discharge wall 30 on the filter layer 31 side. As can be seen from the figure, the surface appearance is granular and rough. This is due to the material selected for the filter layer, which in this case is a cellulose-based filter.

[0167] Figure 6B shows the discharge wall 30 on the adhesive layer 33 side. As can be seen from the figure, the surface appearance is smooth and glossy. This is due to the material selected for the adhesive layer, which in this case is an acrylic adhesive.

[0168] Neither layer has any visible holes or openings at the presented scale.

[0169] Figure 7 shows the extraction curves (pressure over time) for a series of pulp-molded compostable capsules, such as the one in Figure 4 with the delivery wall in Figure 5, extracted using a Nespresso® Inissia machine. As can be seen from the figure, the extraction curves have very similar shapes, and the narrow range of the curves indicates a reduction in the variability of the extraction curves. The extraction pressure profile during beverage preparation is observed to be more consistent and reproducible with compostable capsules.

[0170] The maximum pressure Pmax can vary between 9 and 14 bar, but the maximum number of curves has a Pmax that varies between 10 and 12 bar.

[0171] The equilibrium pressure Peq values ​​at 15 seconds for the different curves are also narrower, ranging from 9 to 12 bar.

[0172] From the extraction curve in Figure 7, the capsule opening does not appear as shown in the curve in Figure 2, but rather as a pressure drop as shown in Figure 2 (see Popening in Figure 2).

[0173] In the proposed compostable capsule, the opening is progressiver than that of the aluminum capsule and follows a different process. This process is described in relation to Figures 8 and 9.

[0174] Figure 8 shows a magnified view of the delivery wall 30 of the filter layer 31, viewed from the side, after extraction of one of the capsules shown in the extraction curve of Figure 7 at Peq (15 seconds) (the above is reproduced in the figure).

[0175] This magnified view of the filter layer 31 was obtained using a scanning electron microscope (SEM), specifically Hitachi's FlexSEM.

[0176] As can be seen in the diagram, the fibers of the filter layer 31 are uniformly stretched to allow liquid to flow through. The gaps that arise between the filter fibers following the interaction between the discharge wall and the pyramidal elements create openings in the filter layer for discharging the coffee beverage.

[0177] Figure 9 shows a series of magnified views of the delivery wall 30 at different scales, viewed from the side of the adhesive layer 33, at two extraction times for one of the capsules shown in the curve of Figure 7.

[0178] From the extracted curve, a first magnified view taken at Pmax is proposed and presented on the left side of the figure. This magnified view is an SEM magnified view (×50).

[0179] This image was taken at the start of extraction (here, between 5 and 6 seconds after the start of extraction), and the delivery wall is deformed relative to the pyramidal element 1122, which further exhibits the shape of the truncated apex portion of the pyramidal element of the extraction plate 1120, further increasing the injection of water and the pressure inside the capsule. As can be seen from the figure, even when the delivery wall deforms relative to the pyramidal element, there is no tearing, rupture, or damage to the material. Small holes corresponding to the permeable opening 37 may be seen in the adhesive layer 33.

[0180] Two images taken with an optical microscope are presented below the extraction curve at 20 seconds from the start of extraction, corresponding to the end of extraction when the equilibrium pressure Peq is achieved (meaning the coffee is being / has been released from the capsule).

[0181] The first image shows the discharge wall 30 (viewed from the adhesive layer 33 side) exhibiting a pyramidal element shape. The pyramidal element pattern of the extraction plate of the beverage preparation machine is particularly visible.

[0182] The second image immediately to the right is a magnified view of the selected rectangular area in the aforementioned image. The magnification value / scale is shown for each image. In this image, as in the aforementioned image, the delivery wall exhibits a pyramidal elemental shape without visible tearing, rupture, or damage to the material. The pyramidal elemental pattern of the extraction plate is particularly visible and applied to the delivery wall 30.

[0183] The last two remaining images in Figure 9 (set to the right of the extraction curve) are further enlarged views of one selected region of the aforementioned image, corresponding to the deformation of the delivery wall on a single pyramidal element. These two images are created at different locations of the deformed delivery wall 30, specifically at the apical portion of the pyramidal element. As can be seen in these two images, several holes (larger than those present on the delivery wall at Pmax) corresponding to the permeable openings 37 are distributed along specific lines within the adhesive material. The permeable openings 37 are mainly located close to the top of the truncated pyramidal element.

[0184] The hole sizes range from 100 μm² to 4000 μm² (0.0001 mm² to 0.0040 mm²). These permeable openings 37 are sized to allow the coffee beverage to be discharged to the outside of the capsule.

[0185] As with the previously disclosed images and figures, it should be emphasized that the holes forming the permeable opening 37 are not the result of tearing or rupturing of the material.

[0186] Therefore, in contrast to what happens during the opening of an aluminum capsule, the opening of the discharge wall visible from the adhesive layer side in the proposed compostable capsule is not obtained by tearing, fracturing, or rupturing of the discharge wall, but rather by a permeable opening resulting from the formation of a porous cavity following both the interaction of the discharge wall with the pyramidal elements and the interaction with the pressurized water inside the capsule.

[0187] Therefore, in the system of the present invention, the pyramidal element 1122 of the extraction plate is designed to provide a truncated pyramidal apex portion, and the capsule delivery wall 30 is In the first step of beverage preparation, the pyramidal element 1122 is stretched, preferably by the truncated pyramidal apex portion of the pyramidal element. In the second step of beverage preparation, permeability is achieved by the formation of a cavity leading to a permeable opening 37 without any tearing effect.

[0188] It should be understood that various changes and modifications to the currently preferred embodiments described herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Such changes and modifications can be implemented without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as encompassed in the appended claims.

[0189] In the claims, any reference numerals placed between parentheses should not be construed as limiting the claims. The word “comprising” does not exclude the existence of elements or processes other than those enumerated in the claims. Furthermore, as used herein, the terms “a” or “an” are defined as one or more. Also, the use of introductory phrases such as “at least one” and “one or more” in a claim should not be construed as meaning that the introduction of another claim element by the indefinite article “a” or “an” limits a particular claim containing such introduced claim element to an invention containing only one such element, even if the same claim contains the introductory phrase “one or more” or “at least one” and an indefinite article such as “a” or “an”. The same applies to the use of definite articles. Unless otherwise stated, terms such as “first” and “second” are used to arbitrarily distinguish between elements that such terms describe. Thus, these terms are not necessarily intended to indicate a temporal or other priority of such elements. The mere fact that certain treatments are enumerated in different claims does not indicate that combinations of these treatments cannot be used advantageously.

[0190] Unless explicitly stated otherwise, or unless the physical properties or otherwise of the embodiments, examples, or claims prevent such combination, the features of the aforementioned embodiments, examples, and appended claims can be combined in any suitable configuration, particularly in which such combination has beneficial effects. This is not limited to any particular benefit, but may instead arise from “subsequent” benefits. This means that combinations of features are not limited by the described form, in particular by the form of dependency (e.g., numbering) of the examples, embodiments, or claims. Furthermore, this also applies to phrases such as “in one embodiment” or “by one embodiment,” which are merely stylistic choices and should not be interpreted as limiting the features below to separate embodiments to all other examples of the same or similar wording. This means that references to “an,” “one,” or “several” embodiments may refer to one or more, and / or all, of the disclosed embodiments, or combinations thereof. Similarly, reference to “the” embodiment may not be limited to the immediately preceding embodiment.

[0191] The foregoing descriptions of one or more implementations are illustrative and descriptive, but are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the scope of the invention to the exact forms disclosed. Modifications and variations are possible in light of the foregoing teachings or may be derived from experience with various implementations of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A system comprising a beverage preparation machine (1) and a capsule (2) containing beverage raw materials (50), preferably roasted and ground coffee, The aforementioned capsule (2) A capsule body (20) having a three-dimensional shape, comprising a side wall (21) defining a chamber (25) for containing the beverage raw materials (50), and a rim portion (211) defining an opening (23) in the side wall (21), An injection wall (22) for injecting the fluid into the chamber in order to prepare a beverage during the interaction between the fluid and the beverage raw materials (50), The chamber (25) is closed by a delivery wall (30) connected to the capsule body (20), wherein the delivery wall is made of a biodegradable material and is layered, at least A carrier layer (32) is provided which is adapted to open under the influence of the pressure increase of the fluid injected into the capsule (2), The carrier layer (32) includes an adhesive layer (33) provided on the side facing the chamber (25) in order to join, preferably seal, and preferably heat seal, the discharge wall (30) to the rim portion (211) of the capsule body (20), The beverage preparation machine (1) includes an extraction device (11) for extracting a beverage from the capsule (2), and the extraction device is The system includes an upstream capsule surrounding portion (111) and a downstream capsule surrounding portion (112) that are relatively movable between an open position for inserting and / or ejecting the capsule (2) and a closed position for forming an extraction chamber (12) that surrounds the capsule (2) during extraction, The aforementioned upstream portion (111) An upstream perforation mechanism (1110) for opening the injection wall (22) of the capsule (2), The fluid injector (111) and, supporting, The downstream portion (112) comprises an extraction plate (1120) that engages with the capsule (2), and the extraction plate (1120) comprises a pyramidal element (1122) that faces the discharge wall (30) of the capsule when in use. During the preparation of the beverage, the extraction device, In the first step, the capsule (2) is surrounded between the upstream portion surrounding (111) and the downstream portion surrounding (112), and then, In the second step, the fluid is introduced into the capsule (2) through the fluid injector (1111), The pyramidal element (1122) of the downstream portion (112) and the delivery wall (300) of the capsule are In the first step, the discharge wall (30) interacts with the pyramidal element (1122) and, without causing a visible perforation in the discharge wall, leaves an indentation of the pyramidal element on its surface facing the pyramidal element. In the second step, when the fluid injected into the capsule comes into contact with the surface of the delivery wall facing the chamber (25) of the capsule, a permeable opening (37) appears in the structure of the delivery wall (30) through a cavity in one or more of the layers of the delivery wall (300). A system designed such that in a third step, the formed beverage is discharged from the capsule (2) and comes into contact with the extraction plate (1120).

2. The system according to claim 1, wherein the pyramidal element (1122) of the extraction plate (1120) and the delivery wall (30) of the capsule are designed such that, in the first step, the pyramidal element does not puncture or tear the delivery wall under the influence of the expansion of the delivery wall to the pyramidal element (1122) after the pressure of the fluid injected into the capsule has increased and the pressure inside the capsule has reached at least 6 bar, preferably at least 8 bar.

3. The system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the delivery wall (30) of the capsule begins to open after the pressure inside the capsule reaches at least 8 bar.

4. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the carrier layer (32) is made of a compostable material and / or a defined, preferably closed, fibrous structure, for example, at least 50% by weight of softwood pulp, cellulose fibers, paper or polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA), polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) and copolymer, polybutylene succinate (PBS / PBS-A), biopolyester, cellulose acetate, starch, polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH), a polymer in which at least one monomer unit is vinyl alcohol, compounds of the above materials and / or a fibrous structure corresponding to a laminate.

5. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the carrier layer (32) is made from a paper-based material and has a basis weight between 20 and 150 g / m², preferably between 30 and 100 g / m².

6. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the dispensing wall (30) further comprises a filter layer (31) for filtering particles from the prepared beverage dispensed through the dispensing wall (30), the filter layer (31) being located on the side opposite to the chamber (25) with respect to the carrier layer (32).

7. The system according to claim 6, wherein the filter layer (31) is made from a compostable and / or nonwoven material different from the carrier layer (32), such as wood or sugarcane pulp, cellulose fibers, rayon fibers, polybutylene succinate (PBS), poly(butylene succinate-co-butylene adipate) (PBS-A / PBSa), polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) and / or polylactic acid (PLA), and / or the filter layer (31) has a basis weight of 10 to 150 g / m2, preferably 20 to 100 g / m2.

8. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the delivery wall further comprises a barrier layer (34) for providing a preferably bidirectional barrier to moisture and / or gas, the barrier layer (34) preferably being made of a different material from the filter layer (31) and / or the carrier layer (32), and the barrier layer (34) is applied between the carrier layer (32) and the adhesive layer (33) to the side of the carrier layer (32) facing the chamber.

9. The system according to claim 8, wherein the barrier layer (34) is made from a biodegradable and preferably compostable material, such as a biopolymer, polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH), butenediol vinyl alcohol copolymer (BVOH), or a polymer or copolymer in which at least one monomer unit is vinyl alcohol, and a compound or laminate of the above material.

10. The pyramidal element (1122) of the extraction plate (1120) is designed to provide a truncated pyramidal apex portion (1123), and the delivery wall (30) of the capsule is, In the first step of the beverage preparation, the pyramidal element is stretched, preferably by the truncated pyramidal apex portion of the pyramidal element. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein in the second step of preparing the beverage, permeability is achieved by the formation of a cavity without a tearing effect.

11. The system according to claim 10, wherein the cavity formed in the delivery wall (30) of the capsule is mainly located in close proximity to the upper part of the truncated pyramidal element (1123).

12. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the majority of the opening has a size in the range of 0.0001 mm² to 0.0040 mm².

13. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the extraction device is configured such that, as the capsule surrounding portions (111, 112) move toward each other to surround the capsule within the extraction chamber, at least a portion of the extraction device pushes the capsule so that the delivery wall of the capsule faces the extraction plate (1120) of the downstream surrounding portion (112).

14. In the extraction device, The upstream portion (111) defines a cage (21) that defines a cage designed to surround the capsule body (31), and supports an upstream drilling mechanism (22) for opening the bottom wall (20) of the capsule. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the downstream portion (112) defines a capsule holder positioned laterally with respect to the closing direction of the extraction device, the capsule holder comprising an extraction plate that interacts with the delivery wall of the capsule during the extraction of the beverage.

15. Use of a capsule in a system according to any one of claims 1 to 14, The capsule (2) comprises a capsule body (20) having a three-dimensional shape that defines a chamber (25) for containing beverage raw materials (50), and an injection wall (22) and a discharge wall (30) connected to the capsule body (20) and closing the chamber (25), The delivery wall (30) comprises, in a layered manner, a carrier layer (32) adapted to open under the influence of the pressure increase of the fluid injected into the capsule (2), and an adhesive layer (33) provided on the side of the carrier layer (32) facing the chamber (25) for joining the delivery wall (30) to the capsule body (20), The use of the capsule is such that the delivery wall (30) of the capsule is designed such that the upstream capsule surrounding portion (111) and the downstream capsule surrounding portion (112) surround the capsule, and when a fluid is injected into the capsule, the extraction plate of the downstream surrounding portion interacts with the delivery wall (30) without causing visible perforation of the delivery wall, and when the surface of the delivery wall facing the chamber (25) comes into contact with the fluid injected into the capsule, a permeable opening (37) appears within the structure of the delivery wall, allowing the beverage to be discharged to the outside of the capsule.

Images