Capsule system

Abstract

The invention relates to a system for producing a beverage in a beverage preparation machine, comprising a capsule (1) comprising a capsule body (2) having a peripheral annular flange (24), an upper membrane (3), a lower membrane (4) and an opening device (5) provided inside an ingredient chamber (22) for opening the capsule by relatively engaging with the lower membrane (4) under the effect of an increased pressure of a liquid injected into the ingredient chamber, a beverage preparation machine (10) comprising a capsule holder (11) and a liquid injection device (12), wherein the liquid injection device and the inserted capsule holder are movable relative to each other for clamping the peripheral annular flange (24) of the capsule, and an annular support element (100) positionable between an underside (242) of the peripheral annular flange (24) of the capsule and a peripheral annular rim (112) of the capsule holder.

Description

【Technical Field】 【0001】 The present invention relates to a system for preparing beverages in a beverage preparation machine having capsules containing beverage raw materials. 【Background Art】 【0002】 Single-serving beverage capsules are known in the art. These capsules are commonly used in beverage preparation machines for on-demand dispensing of beverages such as coffee or tea. 【0003】 For this purpose, typically, a beverage capsule having a capsule body enclosing beverage raw materials is inserted into a capsule receptacle of a beverage preparation machine. The capsule receptacle is closed and beverage preparation is started. In the capsule receptacle, the upper membrane of the capsule is perforated with a needle to inject a fluid, generally water, into the capsule, which interacts with the beverage raw materials inside the capsule to produce the desired beverage. As the fluid fills the capsule, the pressure inside the capsule rises. When a sufficient amount of fluid has filled the capsule, a self-opening mechanism inside the capsule activates and opens the lower membrane of the capsule to discharge the prepared beverage when the extraction of the beverage components is complete. An example of the operating principle of this type of container is described in European Patent No. 1472156. 【0004】 In conventional technology, this type of beverage container is typically made of plastic and / or aluminum. Given that the container is designed for single use, the reuse and recycling of the materials used can be difficult, and therefore, their disposal needs to be managed. Thus, attempts have been made to replace these materials with alternatives such as cellulose or bioplastics to overcome the problems associated with the disposal and / or recycling of used containers. However, it is important to consider that these alternative materials do not have the same material properties and advantages as conventional plastic materials. For example, the strength of the seal formed between the compostable material used in the upper membrane on one side and the container body on the other side is different from the strength of the seal between the plastic container body and the multilayer plastic upper membrane. 【0005】 Specifically, the strength of the seal formed between the upper membrane and the container body, both made from compostable materials, appears insufficient to allow for accurate extraction in beverage preparation machines. During beverage preparation, the seal between the upper membrane and the container body is typically subjected to high temperatures (70°C–100°C) and high pressures (>7–9 bar). Therefore, if the seal is not strong enough, there is a risk that the seal between the upper membrane and the container body will be damaged during extraction. This could cause the upper membrane to separate from the container body due to the pressure applied to the weak seal, or the upper membrane to rupture along the seal, potentially leading to fluid leakage from the container during beverage preparation. As a result, the increase in pressure inside the container may be insufficient to activate the self-opening mechanism, the container may not be fully extracted, and / or the beverage may contain insoluble particles of the extracted substrate, thereby leading to a deterioration in the taste and quality of the prepared beverage. 【0006】 Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a capsule system that enables the preparation of beverages in a beverage preparation machine using beverage capsules made of compostable material without impairing the quality and taste of the prepared beverages. In this regard, a specific object of the present invention is to increase the resistance of the upper membrane to separation from the capsule body during extraction and to reduce the risk of the upper membrane breaking during extraction. 【0007】 These and other objectives, which become apparent from reading the description, are addressed by the subject matter of the independent claims. Dependent claims refer to preferred embodiments of the invention. [Overview of the project] 【0008】 A first aspect of the present invention relates to a system for producing a beverage, comprising a capsule, a beverage in a beverage preparation machine, and an annular support element. 【0009】 This capsule comprises a capsule body for containing beverage ingredients, an upper membrane, a lower membrane, and an opening device. 【0010】 The main body of this capsule is The chamber is defined by an upper opening and a lower outlet that is normally open through which the beverage is poured, with a side wall extending axially between them. The device comprises a peripheral annular flange projecting radially outward from an upper opening, the peripheral annular flange having an upper surface on the opposite side of the opening from the chamber and a lower surface on the opposite side. 【0011】 Preferably, the capsule body is made of a biodegradable or compostable material such as polylactic acid (PLA), polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA), polybutylene succinate (PBS), polybutylene succinate adipate (PBSA), and / or polybutylene adipate terptalate (PBAT). 【0012】 In this regard, international standards such as EU 13432 or US ASTM D6400 specify technical requirements and procedures for determining the biodegradability and compostability of materials. For example, one test requires that for materials considered "(industrially) compostable," at least 90% of the material in question must be biologically decomposed within six months under controlled conditions. Similar testing schemes also exist for certifying compostability in households. 【0013】 Therefore, since the entire capsule system can be disposed of in a compost pile after use, the materials can be completely decomposed and then supplied with nutrients to the soil. 【0014】 The upper membrane of this capsule is attached to at least a portion of the upper surface of the peripheral flange of the capsule body, and is fitted to close the upper opening and to be perforated in order to inject liquid into the capsule. 【0015】 Preferably, the upper membrane is made of a biodegradable or compostable material such as polylactic acid (PLA), polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA), polybutylene succinate (PBS), polybutylene succinate adipate (PBSA), and / or polybutylene adipate terptalate (PBAT). 【0016】 The lower membrane of the capsule is located inside the chamber. Together with the upper membrane, the lower membrane defines the beverage ingredient chamber, which is filled with beverage ingredients. These beverage ingredients may be soluble or extractable beverage ingredients. 【0017】 The capsule opening device is located inside the chamber and beneath the lower membrane. This opening device is designed to open the capsule by engaging relative to the lower membrane under the influence of the pressure increase caused by the liquid injected into the raw material chamber. 【0018】 Preferably, the opening device is made of a biodegradable or compostable material. 【0019】 Preferably, the entire capsule is made of a biodegradable or compostable material. 【0020】 This system comprises a beverage preparation machine, which comprises a removable capsule holder for receiving a capsule outside the machine and holding the capsule inside the machine. This capsule holder comprises a capsule receiving area configured to receive and hold the side wall of the capsule body, and a peripheral annular rim extending radially outwards from the receiving area and configured to support the peripheral annular flange of the capsule body. 【0021】 In addition, the machine comprises an aperture for inserting the removable capsule holder, and a liquid injection device. 【0022】 This liquid injection device and the inserted capsule holder are movable relative to each other so as to clamp the peripheral annular flange of the capsule. 【0023】 Normally, the liquid injection device comprises at least one injection means arranged so as to project into the upper membrane when the device is moved towards the holder. This injection means supplies liquid into the capsule. 【0024】 Preferably, this beverage preparation machine can correspond to the machines described in WO 2006 / 082064 or WO 2008 / 107281. 【0025】 This system comprises an annular support element that can be arranged between the lower surface of the peripheral annular flange of the capsule and the peripheral annular rim of the capsule holder. 【0026】 This annular support element is configured to have a size and shape such that it is axially seated on the peripheral annular rim of the capsule holder and axially disposed under the flange of the capsule body. 【0027】 When the assembly of this annular support element disposed between the capsule holder and the capsule is inserted into the machine, this assembly forms a peripheral clamping area for clamping the capsule flange within the beverage preparation machine during beverage preparation. This clamping area includes the upper membrane and the flange of the main body capsule, and these two elements have the effect of being strongly pressed against each other during beverage preparation. As a result, the risk that these two elements separate during beverage preparation is avoided. 【0028】 Therefore, by providing a capsule system having such a configuration, the problems existing in the prior art can be overcome. Specifically, the configuration of the present capsule system contributes to strengthening the seal integrity of the upper membrane of compostable capsules during extraction (similarly, all capsules having a membrane that is generally difficult to seal to the capsule body), which is because the system design increases the resistance to separation of the upper membrane from the capsule flange or to damage of the upper membrane. Beverages can be prepared using water pressurized above 10 bar without affecting the seal integrity. 【0029】 Generally, the annular support element has a shape similar to the peripheral annular rim of the capsule holder and the flange of the capsule body. Usually, this annular support element is a ring. This ring can be a flat ring or a ring with a round cross-section. 【0030】 Thereby, a simple but effective design can be brought to the support element. 【0031】 The annular support element can be made of a rigid material such as steel or an elastic material such as rubber. Alternatively or additionally, the support element may be made of a compostable and / or recyclable material. For example, (bio)plastic, paper, or silicone may be used. 【0032】 In one preferred embodiment, the annular support element is a flat ring. This flat ring has an upper surface configured to support the lower surface of the peripheral annular flange of the capsule body, and this upper surface may have at least one annular projection. The projection may have any shape; for example, it may have a semicircular radial cross-section. 【0033】 By providing defined surface features on the upper surface of a flat ring, which protrude from there and extend circumferentially along the outer circumference of the flat ring, several effects can be obtained that ensure the integrity of the seal along the capsule flange. 【0034】 In a more preferred embodiment, the projection may be provided between the inner and outer edges of a flat ring. Preferably, the projection may be positioned radially closer to the inner edge than to the outer edge. For example, the projection may extend along the inner edge. 【0035】 Preferably, the annular support element may be provided with orientation identification features to ensure that the annular support element is set so as to contact the flange via a projection. The orientation identification features may be a color, a sticker, or a surface structure that matches the contour of the capsule body or capsule holder. 【0036】 Typically, the maximum axial thickness of the annular support element depends on the axial thickness of the flange of the capsule body. It may also depend on the properties of the material from which the capsule body is made. 【0037】 In general, the maximum axial thickness of the annular support element may be 0.1 mm to 0.7 mm, preferably 0.3 mm to 0.5 mm, in at least one region of the protrusion. Alternatively or additionally, the support element may have the above-mentioned axial thickness in at least one region of the protrusion. This makes it possible to provide a support element having a thickness that allows use in beverage preparation machines known in the prior art, while enhancing the aforementioned advantages. 【0038】 According to a preferred embodiment, the capsule body support section is attached to an annular support element. This capsule body support section is designed to receive the capsule body when the capsule body is set up so that its peripheral flange contacts the ring. 【0039】 Preferably, the capsule body support section comprises a cage-like structure which may have an annular lower support for supporting the lower part of the capsule body on the side opposite to the upper opening of the capsule body. This annular lower support can be attached to a ring via axial connecting ribs. 【0040】 Typically, the center of the annular lower support section described above is hollow. 【0041】 This capsule body support section offers the advantage of facilitating the placement of annular support elements beneath the capsule body flange, encouraging the user to slide the capsule within the annular support elements. 【0042】 This embodiment is particularly interesting when the upper surface of the annular support element includes an annular projection, as it eliminates the risk of the user reversing the top and bottom surfaces when positioning the annular support element below the capsule body flange. 【0043】 In addition, if the annular support element is not disposable but reusable after each beverage preparation, this embodiment has the advantage of preventing the user from discarding the annular support element along with the used capsule. The support element is more visible and attracts the user's attention due to its shape and volume, although this may not be the case if the support element is a ring hidden beneath the flange of the used capsule body. 【0044】 This allows for a larger support element, making it more visible and easier to insert into the capsule holder, thus reducing the risk of consumers accidentally losing or damaging the support element. Furthermore, it ensures that the capsule is precisely positioned relative to the support element. 【0045】 In a second embodiment, a method for preparing a beverage using the system described above is provided, and in this method, The annular support element is positioned below the peripheral annular flange of the capsule, or on the peripheral annular rim of the capsule holder, and then, Place the capsule in the capsule receiving area of ​​the capsule holder, and then, Insert the capsule holder into the capsule holder receiving area of ​​the machine. Move the liquid injection device and / or the inserted capsule holder relative to each other, and then, Inject the liquid. 【0046】 In a third embodiment, a kit is provided comprising at least one capsule and at least one annular support element configured for use in the system described above. 【0047】 The capsule has the features described above, and the annular support element is configured to be removably positioned below the peripheral annular flange of the capsule. Preferably, the annular support element is a ring as described above. 【0048】 This kit may include multiple capsules and one annular support element, allowing the user to prepare beverages from those capsules by placing the annular support element under the flange of each capsule body and removing it after preparation. 【0049】 In a fourth embodiment, a ring is provided that is configured for use in the system described above. The ring comprises an upper surface and a lower surface, the upper surface comprising an annular projection. This projection can have any shape, such as a semicircular radial cross-section. 【0050】 Preferably, the ring may have orientation-identifying features for distinguishing the top surface from the bottom surface. 【0051】 The orientation identification feature can be a color, a sticker, or a surface structure that matches the contour of the capsule body or capsule holder. 【0052】 In one embodiment, the ring is attached to the capsule body support section as described above. 【0053】 In a fifth embodiment, a capsule holder is provided configured for use in the system described above, wherein an annular support element is attached to the peripheral annular rim of the capsule holder. The upper surface of the attached ring is provided with an annular projection, which may have a semicircular radial cross-section. 【0054】 Preferably, an annular support element, which is a ring, can be detachably attached to the holder. In this case, the machine's current holder can be adapted to accept new capsules, such as compostable or biodegradable capsules, where the seal between the upper membrane and the capsule body flange is weaker. 【0055】 Alternatively, the ring can be permanently attached to the holder, meaning the ring is integrated into the holder during manufacturing. This new holder can be used in place of the current holder with newer types of capsules that have a weaker seal between the upper membrane and the capsule body flange, such as compostable or biodegradable capsules. 【0056】 This makes it possible to provide a support element to the capsule holder of a beverage preparation machine. Thus, the capsule holder of the beverage preparation machine can reliably maintain the integrity of the capsule seal. In addition, the risk of consumers accidentally losing or damaging the support element can be reduced, and the support element can be consistently and accurately positioned relative to the other components of the capsule system. 【0057】 In this application, The terms “upper” and “lower” are used to describe the relative positioning of the features of the present invention. These terms should be understood to refer to the normal orientation of the capsule when placed in a beverage preparation machine to produce a beverage, as shown in Figures 1, 2, 3A, 3B, and 8A–8B. 【0058】 The term "axial direction" is defined with respect to the capsule body of the capsule that extends axially between the upper opening and the lower part, while the term "radial direction" is defined with respect to the circular cross-section of this capsule body (Figure 1). 【0059】 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] 【0060】 Further features, advantages, and objectives of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading the following detailed description of embodiments of the invention in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Even if numbers are omitted from the drawings for clarity, corresponding features may still be present in the drawings. [Figure 1] A schematic cross-sectional view of a capsule used in the system of the present invention is shown. [Figure 2]This shows a conventional capsule and beverage preparation machine system. [Figure 3A] Figures 1 and 2 show cross-sectional views of the capsule and capsule holder in two different operations. [Figure 3B] Figures 1 and 2 show cross-sectional views of the capsule and capsule holder in two different operations. [Figure 4] The images show top views and cross-sectional views of various different embodiments of the annular support element according to the present invention. [Figure 5] The images show top views and cross-sectional views of various different embodiments of the annular support element according to the present invention. [Figure 6] The images show top views and cross-sectional views of various different embodiments of the annular support element according to the present invention. [Figure 7] The images show top views and cross-sectional views of various different embodiments of the annular support element according to the present invention. [Figure 8A] This is an enlarged view of the flange of a capsule tightened in a beverage preparation machine according to various different embodiments of the prior art and the present invention. [Figure 8B] This is an enlarged view of the flange of a capsule tightened in a beverage preparation machine according to various different embodiments of the prior art and the present invention. [Figure 8C] This is an enlarged view of the flange of a capsule tightened in a beverage preparation machine according to various different embodiments of the prior art and the present invention. [Figure 8D] This is an enlarged view of the flange of a capsule tightened in a beverage preparation machine according to various different embodiments of the prior art and the present invention. [Figure 8E] This is an enlarged view of the flange of a capsule tightened in a beverage preparation machine according to various different embodiments of the prior art and the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention] 【0061】 Figure 1 schematically shows capsule 1 used in the system of the present invention. 【0062】 Capsule 1 comprises a capsule body 2 having one or more side walls 22 extending axially from the bottom to the top. The side walls extend toward the upper opening 23. At the upper opening 23, the body comprises a peripheral flange 24 extending radially outward from the side walls and continuously along the periphery of the opening. Typically, the flange 24 is connected to the capsule body by a connecting portion 243. For example, at the connecting portion 243, the side wall 22 may transition into the flange 24. 【0063】 The flange 24 is typically formed integrally with one or more side walls 22. The flange comprises an upper surface 241 facing the top and a lower surface 242. The lower surface preferably includes or consists of a flat surface. 【0064】 Generally, as shown in the perspective view of Figure 2, any cross-section of the main capsule is circular from bottom to top, and the flange is also circular. 【0065】 The side wall defines a chamber 21 for containing soluble and / or extractable beverage ingredients. 【0066】 This soluble beverage ingredient is a water-soluble powder ingredient and can be selected from the list of instant coffee powder, milk powder, cream powder, instant tea powder, cocoa powder, soup powder, fruit powder, or mixtures of such powders. The powder may be coagulated or sintered. 【0067】 The beverage ingredients packaged in the box may be ingredients that can be extracted or steeped, such as roasted and ground coffee or tea leaves. In this embodiment, water is used to extract the beverage ingredients. 【0068】 The capsule is fixed, sealed, or attached to at least a portion of the upper surface 241 of the peripheral flange and includes an upper membrane 3 that covers and closes the upper opening 23 accordingly. 【0069】 The upper membrane is adapted to be perforated for liquid injection into the capsule, as shown in Figure 3B. Preferably, the upper membrane is perforable by an injection needle of a beverage preparation machine, and the injection needle is adapted to inject the extract under pressure into or into the chamber. Preferably, the perforation operation is performed in a single location by a water injection needle, as described in International Publication No. 2006 / 082064 or International Publication No. 2008 / 107281. 【0070】 The term "upper membrane" should be understood as the membrane punctured by the machine's injection needle, in contrast to the "lower membrane" (described below), which is located on the opposite side of capsule 1. 【0071】 The capsule comprises a lower membrane 4 that closes the bottom of the chamber 21. Thus, soluble and / or extractable beverage ingredients are sealed between the upper and lower membranes. The upper and lower membranes define the internal space of the ingredient chamber 22, which is a chamber configured to hold beverage ingredients for the preparation of the beverage. 【0072】 In one embodiment, the feed wall 6 may extend through the internal cross-section of the chamber, defining a lower sub-chamber for the raw material and an upper distribution chamber for the liquid. This feed wall is provided with small holes for uniformly supplying the liquid onto the raw material. 【0073】 The capsule includes an opening device 5 adapted to open the chamber by engaging with the lower membrane 4 relative to it under the influence of the rising liquid pressure in the chamber during the injection of the liquid. The opening device 5 may include a rigid plate 51 having opening elements 52 such as spikes, cones, or pyramidal shapes (optionally with truncated ends) on its surface oriented upward toward the lower membrane 4, which can form protrusions and recesses toward the lower membrane 4 facing the opening device. The opening device 5 is sometimes commonly referred to as a "pyramid plate." When liquid is injected into the chamber 4, the pressure rises, deforming the lower membrane 4 relative to the opening device 5 until the lower membrane is perforated, causing the beverage prepared in the capsule 1 to fall from the chamber 21 to below the opening device 5. The expression "engage" may mean, for example, that the opening device or the second membrane, or both, can move relative to each other to produce an opening. 【0074】 Typically, the capsule body is provided with a lower open beverage outlet 25 below the opening device 5. Preferably, the lower part of the capsule body extends below the opening means to hold the opening means and collect the beverage into the open beverage outlet 25, pouring the beverage out of the capsule 1, for example into a cup. 【0075】 The upper membrane 3 is fixed to the flange 24 so that the extract injected into the chamber 21 increases the internal pressure to the pressure necessary to cause a perforation of the lower membrane 4, which is deformed by the opening device 5. Thus, the upper membrane 3 is fixed to the flange so as not to detach until at least a specified pressure inside the chamber is achieved. This specified pressure may be at least 2 bar, preferably at least 3 bar or at least 6 bar. In this regard, this fixation prevents the capsule 1 from leaking through the interface between the flange and the upper membrane during beverage preparation. 【0076】 Preferably, capsule 1 is a compostable capsule. 【0077】 However, the present invention can also be applied to any capsule 1 made of a material that exhibits a weak seal between the capsule flange and the upper membrane. Preferably, at least the capsule body 2 and the upper membrane 3 are made of a compostable material, and more preferably, all elements of the capsule are made of a compostable material and / or contain a compostable substance. 【0078】 Typically, the upper film 3 is attached to the flange 24 by heat sealing, with or without the addition of sealant. In this way, a seal is formed between the first film and the flange. Depending on the properties of the materials of the upper film and the flange, Is it okay if the seal itself is weak, or Either the material itself has low resistance to pressure, or, for example, the upper layer made of a laminated film can be delaminated. 【0079】 Figure 2 shows a system comprising the capsule 1 described above and a beverage preparation machine 10 configured to prepare a beverage from the capsule. The machine includes a capsule holder 11 that is removable from the machine, the capsule holder 11 having a receiving area 111 for introducing the body of the capsule, the flange 24 of the body being supported on the peripheral rim 112 of the holder. The capsule holder can then be inserted into the receiving area 13 of the machine to prepare the beverage. 【0080】 This machine includes a capsule holder receiving area 13 for inserting a removable capsule holder into which a capsule holder can be inserted for preparing a beverage. 【0081】 In addition, the machine includes, above the receiving area 13 for the capsule holder, a liquid injection device 12 having an injection means 121, more precisely, a hollow needle configured to penetrate the upper membrane 3 and inject water into the interior of the capsule. The injection device and the capsule holder are relatively movable to tighten around the peripheral annular flange of the capsule. 【0082】 Next, the capsule holder 11 can be positioned at two locations within the receiving area 13, as shown in Figures 3A and 3B. 【0083】 In Figure 3A, the capsule holder 11 has just been introduced into the receiving area 13, and in Figure 3B, the liquid injection plate 12 has been moved onto the inserted capsule holder, tightening the peripheral annular flange 24 of the capsule between the peripheral rim 112 of the holder and the injection plate 12. 【0084】 Figure 4 shows a top view and a cross-sectional view along AA of an annular support element 100, which is part of the system consisting of the capsule 1 and machine 10 as described above, as well as a cross-sectional view of one embodiment. 【0085】 The annular support element 100 is a flat ring. The surface of the annular support element is flat. This surface may extend substantially within a single plane. 【0086】 Alternatively or additionally, the annular support element 100 may have an annular projection. Figure 5 shows this alternative embodiment of the annular support element 100 of Figure 4, in which a flat ring has a projection 101 on the upper surface 100a of the flat ring, but the lower surface 100b is flat. The projection extends along the entire circumference of the ring and forms an annular bump or rib. Preferably, the projection 101 is located closer to the inner edge 102 than to the outer edge of the ring, as will be described below. 【0087】 Figure 6 shows another embodiment of the annular support element 100 of Figures 4 and 5, where the annular support element 100 is a ring with a round cross-section. 【0088】 In all embodiments of the annular support element 100, preferably, the annular support element 100 may be made of a compostable and / or recyclable material. For example, the support element 100 may be made of plastic, paper, or silicone. It is also conceivable that the support element 200 may be made of a rigid material such as steel. Alternatively or additionally, the support element 100 may be made of an elastic material such as rubber. For example, the support element 100 may be a silicone O-ring. The support element 100 may have any cross-sectional shape or form. For example, the cross-section of the support element may have a round, circular, or elliptical shape, as illustrated in the figure. Preferably, the support element 100 is closed in the periphery direction. 【0089】 The annular support element 200 is configured with a shape and size such that it is positioned to be in axial contact with the lower surface 242 of the capsule flange, as shown in Figures 8B to 8E below. 【0090】 The side wall 21 of the capsule body can guide the support element 100 in a coaxial arrangement. Therefore, the diameter of the hole defined at the inner end 102 can correspond to the diameter of the capsule body. Thus, the inner opening 201 may be suitable for receiving the capsule body 310, and / or may be configured to do so. 【0091】 Preferably, the width between the inner edge 102 and the outer edge 103 may be at least the width of the flange 24 of the capsule body in order to support the sealing area around the capsule. 【0092】 The annular support element 100 may preferably have an axial thickness of 0.1 mm to 0.7 mm or 0.3 mm to 0.5 mm in one region of the support surface or at least one region of the protrusion. For example, if the annular support element 100 is made of a deformable material that can shrink when the injection plate and capsule holder tighten the flange of the capsule and the annular support element, the axial thickness may be greater, as it may decrease in the compressed state. For example, an annular support element 100 made of rubber with an axial thickness of 0.5 mm may be comparable in sealing force to an annular support element 200 made of steel with an axial thickness of 0.4 mm (because the rubber will shrink to 0.4 mm due to the tightening force). 【0093】 Figure 7 shows another alternative embodiment of the annular support element 100 of Figure 4, in which the flat ring has a capsule body support section 104 that forms a capsule cage. This section comprises an annular lower part 105 attached to the lower surface of the annular support element 100 by ribs 106. The center of the annular lower part 105 is hollow to allow the lower part of the capsule body to pass through. 【0094】 In this embodiment, the placement of the capsule inside the flat ring is obvious to the user. In particular, if the flat ring has a projection on its upper surface, the user is automatically prompted to position this upper surface below the lower surface 242 of the capsule's peripheral annular flange. In addition, the capsule body support section 104 is highly visible to the user, preventing the user from discarding the flat ring along with the capsule after preparing the beverage. 【0095】 In one embodiment, it is assumed that the annular support element 100 is provided integrally with the capsule holder 11. The support element 100 having the capsule holder 11 may also be provided with a protrusion 101. 【0096】 During the operation of the system for preparing the beverage, an annular support element as shown in Figures 4 to 7 is positioned below the peripheral annular flange 24 of the capsule as shown in Figure 1, and then the capsule is introduced into the capsule holder, or the annular support element is positioned above the peripheral rim of the capsule holder, and then the capsule is introduced into the capsule holder. 【0097】 Next, the capsule holder is introduced into the receiving area 13 of the machine, and the liquid injection plate is moved to seal the capsule inside the capsule holder and perforate the upper membrane of the capsule. Simultaneously, the flange 24 of the capsule with the sealed upper membrane 3 is tightened between the lower surface of the injection plate and the upper surface of the annular support element, which is supported by the rim of the capsule holder. 【0098】 Figures 8A to 8E show schematic cross-sectional views of the flanges of capsules clamped in a beverage preparation machine according to various different embodiments of the prior art and the system of the present invention. 【0099】 Figure 8A shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a conventional capsule extraction system known in the prior art that does not have an annular support element, while Figures 8A to 8E show the system of the present invention. 【0100】 In Figure 8A, the flange 24 of the main capsule, to which the membrane 3 is sealed, is tightened between the rim 112 of the capsule holder and the injection plate 12. 【0101】 In Figure 8B, the capsule system further comprises an annular support element 100. The upper surface of the annular support element is planar, as illustrated in Figure 4. 【0102】 The annular support element 100 is configured such that when it is positioned in contact with the lower surface 242 of the capsule body flange, a peripheral clamping region is created between the capsule holder 11 and the injection plate 12 for clamping the capsule flange. This peripheral clamping region is a sandwich structure and includes the peripheral portion of the flange (preferably including a sealing region), the first membrane 3, and the annular support element 100. 【0103】 Figures 8C to 8E show a system in which the annular support element 100 has a projection 102 on its upper surface that contacts the lower surface 242 of the flange. This projection may be provided between the inner edge 220 and the outer edge 230 of the support element 200. This projection is shown at various different positions between the inner edge 102 and the outer edge 103. Preferably, the projection may be provided so as to be closer to the inner edge 102 than to the outer edge 103 in the radial direction. 【0104】 This preference can be explained with reference to Figures 9A and 9B, which show schematic diagrams of the forces and moments generated in the beverage preparation process for various different embodiments of the capsule system according to the present invention. These figures exemplify how the structure of the annular support element 100, specifically the position of the projection 101, may affect the tension generated in the sealing area when the capsule 1 is tightened inside the capsule holder and injection plate. 【0105】 The annular support element 100 is expected to include means for reliably positioning the annular support element 100 in the intended location relative to the capsule 1. For example, the annular support element 100 may include alignment features to ensure its coaxial alignment with the capsule body. For example, the alignment features may be a color or sticker, or a surface structure that matches the contour of the capsule body or capsule holder. 【0106】 The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, insofar as they are encompassed by the appended claims. All features of the embodiments described above can be combined in any possible way and provided interchangeably. [Explanation of symbols] 【0107】 1 capsule 2 capsules 20 Chambers 21 Side wall 22 Raw material chamber 23 Upper opening 24 flange 241 Top surface 242 Bottom surface 25 Bottom exit 3. Upper membrane 31 Seal Section 4. Lower membrane 5. Mouth opening device 51 Rigid Plate 52 Opening elements 6 supply wall 10 Machines 11 Capsule holder 111 Acceptance Areas 112 Peripheral rim 12 Liquid injection plate 121 Injection means 13 Capsule holder receiving area 100 Annular support element 100a top surface 100b bottom side 101 Protrusion 102 Common-law marriage 103 Outer edge 104 Capsule body support section 105 Annular lower support section 106 Rib

Claims

[Claim 1] A system for producing beverages in a beverage preparation machine, wherein the system is A capsule (1), wherein the capsule (1) is Capsule body (2), The chamber (20) is defined, and the side wall (21) extends axially between the upper opening (23) and the lower outlet (25), A capsule body (2) comprising a peripheral annular flange (24) projecting radially outward from the upper opening, the peripheral annular flange (24) having an upper surface (241) on the opposite side of the opening (23) from the chamber, and a lower surface (242) on the opposite side, An upper membrane (3) is attached to at least a portion of the upper surface (241) of the peripheral annular flange, and is fitted to close the upper opening (23) and to be perforated for injecting liquid into the capsule, A lower membrane (4) is provided inside the chamber (20) such that it defines a raw material chamber (22) between the upper membrane (3) and the lower membrane, and the raw material chamber contains beverage raw materials. A capsule (1) comprises an opening device (5) provided inside the chamber (22) to open the capsule by engaging relative to the lower membrane (4) under the influence of the pressure increase of the liquid injected into the chamber (22), A beverage preparation machine (10), A capsule holder (11) for receiving and holding the capsule (1) in the beverage preparation machine, A capsule receiving region (111) configured to receive and hold the side wall (21) of the capsule body, A capsule holder (11) comprises a peripheral annular rim (112) that extends radially outward from the receiving area and is configured to support the peripheral annular flange (24) of the capsule body, A capsule holder receiving area for inserting the removable capsule holder (11), A liquid injection device (12) is provided, A beverage preparation machine (10) wherein the liquid injection device and the inserted capsule holder are movable relative to each other so as to tighten the peripheral annular flange (24) of the capsule, A system comprising an annular support element (100) that can be positioned between the lower surface (242) of the peripheral annular flange (24) of the capsule and the peripheral annular rim (112) of the capsule holder. [Claim 2] The system according to claim 1, wherein the capsule body (2) is made of a biodegradable material such as polylactic acid (PLA), polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA), polybutylene succinate (PBS), polybutylene succinate adipate (PBSA), and / or polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT). [Claim 3] The system according to claim 1, wherein the annular support element (100) is a flat ring or a ring with a round cross-section. [Claim 4] The system according to claim 1, wherein the annular support element (100) is made of a rigid material such as steel or an elastic material such as rubber. [Claim 5] The system according to claim 3, wherein the ring (100) is made of a compostable and / or recyclable material. [Claim 6] The system according to claim 5, wherein the ring (100) is made of plastic, paper, or silicone. [Claim 7] The system according to claim 1, wherein the annular support element (100) is a flat ring, and the flat ring has an upper surface (100a) configured to support the lower surface (242) of the peripheral annular flange of the capsule body, and the upper surface has at least one annular projection (101). [Claim 8] The protruding portion (101) is provided between the inner edge (102) and the outer edge (103) of the ring. The system according to claim 7, wherein the protrusion (101) is provided in the radial direction closer to the inner edge (102) of the ring than to the outer edge (103). [Claim 9] The system according to claim 8, wherein the protruding portion (101) extends along the inner edge (102). [Claim 10] The system according to claim 7, wherein the ring (100) is provided with orientation identification features to ensure that the ring is positioned so as to contact the peripheral annular flange (24) via the projection (101). [Claim 11] The system according to claim 10, wherein the orientation identification feature is a color or a sticker, or a surface structure that matches the contour of the capsule body (2) or the capsule holder. [Claim 12] The system according to claim 1, wherein the maximum thickness of the annular support element is 0.1 mm to 0.7 mm. [Claim 13] The system according to claim 7, wherein the maximum thickness of the annular support element is 0.1 mm to 0.7 mm in at least one region of the protruding portion (101). [Claim 14] The system according to claim 12, wherein the maximum thickness of the annular support element is 0.3 mm to 0.5 mm. [Claim 15] The system according to claim 1, wherein the capsule body support section (104) is attached to the annular support element (100), and the capsule body support section is designed to receive the capsule body (2) when the capsule body is positioned such that the peripheral annular flange (24) of the capsule body is in contact with the annular support element (100). [Claim 16] The system according to claim 15, wherein the capsule body support section (104) comprises a cage-like structure. [Claim 17] The system according to claim 16, wherein the cage-like structure has an annular lower support portion (105) for supporting the lower part of the capsule body (2) on the side opposite to the upper opening (23) of the capsule body (2). [Claim 18] The system according to claim 17, wherein the annular lower support portion is attached to the annular support element (100). [Claim 19] The system according to claim 18, wherein the annular lower support portion is attached to the annular support element (100) via an axial connecting rib (106). [Claim 20] A method for preparing a beverage using the system described in any one of claims 1 to 19, The annular support element (100) is placed below the peripheral annular flange (24) of the capsule, or on the peripheral annular rim (112) of the capsule holder, and then, The capsule (1) is placed in the capsule receiving area (111) of the capsule holder, and then, Insert the capsule holder into the capsule holder receiving area of ​​the machine, The liquid injection device and / or the inserted capsule holder are moved relative to each other. A method of injecting liquid. [Claim 21] A kit comprising at least one capsule (1) and at least one annular support element (100) configured for use in a system according to any one of claims 1 to 19, The aforementioned capsule (1) Capsule body (2), The chamber (20) is defined, and the side wall (21) extends axially between the upper opening (23) and the lower outlet (25), A capsule body (2) comprising a peripheral annular flange (24) projecting radially outward from the upper opening, the peripheral annular flange (24) having an upper surface (241) on the opposite side of the opening (23) from the chamber, and a lower surface (242) on the opposite side, An upper membrane (3) is attached to at least a portion of the upper surface (241) of the peripheral annular flange, and is fitted to close the upper opening (23) and to be perforated for injecting liquid into the capsule, A lower membrane (4) is provided inside the chamber (20) so as to define a raw material chamber (22) between the upper membrane (3) and the lower membrane, wherein the raw material chamber contains beverage raw materials, and the lower membrane (4) The invention comprises an opening device (5) provided inside the chamber so as to open the capsule by engaging relative to the lower membrane (4) under the influence of the pressure increase of the liquid injected into the raw material chamber (22), The kit is configured such that the annular support element (100) is detachably positioned below the peripheral annular flange (24) of the capsule (1). [Claim 22] Use of the kit in the system according to any one of claims 1 to 19, The kit comprises at least one capsule (1) and at least one annular support element (100), The aforementioned capsule (1) Capsule body (2), The chamber (20) is defined, and the side wall (21) extends axially between the upper opening (23) and the lower outlet (25), A capsule body (2) comprising a peripheral annular flange (24) projecting radially outward from the upper opening, the peripheral annular flange (24) having an upper surface (241) on the opposite side of the opening (23) from the chamber, and a lower surface (242) on the opposite side, An upper membrane (3) is attached to at least a portion of the upper surface (241) of the peripheral annular flange, and is fitted to close the upper opening (23) and to be perforated for injecting liquid into the capsule, A lower membrane (4) is provided inside the chamber (20) so as to define a raw material chamber (22) between the upper membrane (3) and the lower membrane, wherein the raw material chamber contains beverage raw materials, and the lower membrane (4) The invention comprises an opening device (5) provided inside the chamber so as to open the capsule by engaging relative to the lower membrane (4) under the influence of the pressure increase of the liquid injected into the raw material chamber (22), The kit is used such that the annular support element (100) is detachably positioned below the peripheral annular flange (24) of the capsule (1). [Claim 23] An annular support element configured for use in a system according to any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein the annular support element (100) comprises an upper surface (100a) and a lower surface (100b), and the upper surface (100a) comprises an annular projection (101). [Claim 24] The annular support element (100) according to claim 23, wherein the annular support element (100) is equipped with orientation identification features. [Claim 25] The annular support element (100) according to claim 24, wherein the orientation identification feature is a color or a sticker, or a surface structure that matches the contour of the capsule body (2) or the capsule holder, or a capsule body support section (104) attached to the annular support element. [Claim 26] The annular support element (100) according to claim 25, wherein the capsule body support section comprises a cage-like structure. [Claim 27] ​​The annular support element (100) according to claim 26, wherein the cage-like structure has an annular lower support portion (105) for supporting the capsule body (2) on the side opposite to the opening (23) of the capsule body. [Claim 28] The annular support element (100) according to claim 27, wherein the annular lower support portion is connected to the annular support element (100). [Claim 29] The annular support element (100) according to claim 28, wherein the annular lower support portion is connected to the annular support element (100) via an axial connecting rib (106). [Claim 30] Use of an annular support element in the system according to any one of claims 1 to 19, The annular support element (100) comprises an upper surface (100a) and a lower surface (100b), and the upper surface (100a) comprises an annular projection (101). The use of an annular support element (100) having orientation identification features. [Claim 31] The use of the annular support element according to claim 30, wherein the orientation identification feature is a color or sticker, or a surface structure that matches the contour of the capsule body (2) or the capsule holder, or a capsule body support section (104) attached to the annular support element. [Claim 32] Use of the annular support element according to claim 31, wherein the capsule body support section comprises a cage-like structure. [Claim 33] The use of the annular support element according to claim 32, wherein the cage-like structure has an annular lower support portion (105) for supporting the capsule body (2) on the side opposite to the opening (23) of the capsule body. [Claim 34] The use of the annular support element according to claim 33, wherein the annular lower support portion is connected to the annular support element (100). [Claim 35] The use of the annular support element according to claim 34, wherein the annular lower support portion is connected to the annular support element (100) via an axial connecting rib (106). [Claim 36] A capsule holder configured for use in a system according to any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein an annular support element (100) is integrated with / attached to the peripheral annular rim (112) of the capsule holder, A capsule holder in which the annular support element comprises an upper surface (100a) and a lower surface (100b), and the upper surface comprises an annular projection (101). [Claim 37] Use of a capsule holder in a system according to any one of claims 1 to 19, The annular support element (100) is integrated with / attached to the peripheral annular rim (112) of the capsule holder. The use of a capsule holder wherein the annular support element comprises an upper surface (100a) and a lower surface (100b), and the upper surface comprises an annular projection (101).

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