SYSTEM FOR PREPARING A BEVERAGE FROM A CAPSULE USING A FLUID SUPPLIED UNDER PRESSURE IN THE CAPSULE AND A CAPSULE FOR USE IN SUCH A SYSTEM

Abstract

System for preparing a potable beverage. The system may include a first capsule and an alternative second capsule, a first beverage preparation device, and a second beverage preparation device, each arranged to receive either the first capsule or the alternative second capsule. The first capsule and the alternative second capsule each include a sealing member on the flange that extends outward to provide fluid-sealing contact with the surrounding first member if the capsule is used in the first beverage preparation device. There is no sealing interface between the first capsule and the surrounding second member to provide fluid sealing during use, and there is a sealing interface between the alternative second capsule and the surrounding second member to provide fluid-sealing contact during use.

Description

SYSTEM FOR PREPARING A BEVERAGE FROM A CAPSULE USING A FLUID SUPPLIED UNDER PRESSURE IN THE CAPSULE AND A CAPSULE FOR USE IN SUCH A SYSTEM Field of Invention The invention relates to a system for preparing a beverage from a capsule using a fluid supplied under pressure in the capsule. The invention also relates to a capsule for use in such a system. Background of the Invention Capsules are widely used to prepare drinking beverages. A beverage preparation device designed to receive the capsules can be used to percolate a drinking beverage using a fluid, such as a liquid, supplied under pressure in the capsule. In a known system, the capsule is provided with a sealing member, and the surrounding member of this known system has a sealing surface that interacts with the sealing member to provide a fluid-tight seal during percolation. Furthermore, in the known system, the surrounding member comprises a capsule support and a manually or automatically operated mechanism for the relative displacement of the surrounding member and the capsule support. The manually or automatically operated mechanism applies a / ZQfrCn / ίZРZ / ^ / YILI Ref. 319135 force on the capsule sealing member when the surrounding member closes onto the capsule support. This force must ensure a fluid-tight seal between the surrounding member and the capsule. Because the manually or automatically operated mechanism is arranged to move relative to the base, the sealing capabilities of the system may depend on the pressure of the fluid injected by the fluid injection means. If the fluid pressure increases, the force between the capsule sealing member and a free end of the surrounding member also increases. The capsule's sealing member must be arranged so that, upon reaching maximum fluid pressure in the surrounding member, the sealing member still provides fluid sealing contact between the surrounding member and the capsule. However, the sealing member must also be arranged so that before or at the beginning of percolation, when the fluid pressure in the surrounding member outside the capsule is relatively low, the sealing member also provides fluid sealing contact between the surrounding member and the capsule. If fluid sealing contact between the capsule and the surrounding member does not exist at the beginning of percolation, leakage will occur.However, if a leak occurs, there is a real possibility that the pressure in the surrounding member outside the capsule will not increase sufficiently to increase the force on the sealing member through the free end of the surrounding member if the manually or automatically operated mechanism moves the surrounding member toward the capsule support. Only if there is sufficient initial sealing will the pressure in the surrounding member increase so that the force of the surrounding member's free end acting on the capsule's sealing member can increase to provide sufficient fluid sealing contact even at the higher fluid pressure.Furthermore, this higher fluid pressure outside the capsule also provides a higher fluid pressure inside the capsule, which is essential if the capsule is provided with a cover that is arranged to tear open over the relief members of the capsule holder (also called the extraction plate) of the beverage preparation device under the influence of the fluid pressure in the capsule. From the above, it follows that the sealing member is a very essential component in the design of capsules and beverage preparation devices. It must be capable of providing fluid sealing contact between the surrounding member and the capsule, preferably even at a relatively low fluid pressure if only a relatively small force is applied to the sealing member via the free end of the surrounding member. However, it must also preferably provide fluid sealing contact at a much higher fluid pressure on the surrounding member outside the capsule if a larger force is applied via the free end of the surrounding member to the capsule's sealing member.In particular, when the free contact end of the surrounding member is provided with radially extending open slots that act as an air inlet passage once the force between the surrounding member and the capsule holder is released, so that it is easier for a user to remove the capsule, the sealing member must also be able to 'close' the radially extending open slots to provide an effective seal. Some capsules may have a sealing member on the outward-extending flange to provide fluid-sealing contact with a surrounding member of the beverage preparation device if the capsule is located on the surrounding member and the surrounding member is closed by means of the closing member, such that the outward-extending flange of the capsule and at least a portion of the capsule's sealing member are hermetically coupled between the surrounding member and the closing member. The capsule's sealing member may be integral with the outward-extending flange and comprise at least a projection extending from the outward-extending flange.The at least one projection may include a projection top, and the at least one projection may be configured such that its projection top exerts a radial force on the first free contact end of the first annular element if the capsule is located on the first surrounding member and the first surrounding member is closed by means of the first closing member of the first beverage preparation device. Such sealing contact may provide an advantageous seal. However, the seal obtained is highly dependent on the surrounding member used. Capsule and machine manufacturers tend to regularly introduce new products to the market, featuring new characteristics and designs. This can lead to changes in sealing requirements. For example, a new beverage preparation device might require new capsules to achieve a proper seal during percolation. There is a need to better handle such situations, for instance, by improving interoperability between capsules and beverage preparation devices. In addition, there is a desire for users to have more variety in their selection of beverage preparation device and / or capsule. / ZQfrCn / ίZΖΠZ / ^ / YΙΛΙ Brief Description of the Invention It is an objective of the invention to provide a method and a system that overcomes at least one of the aforementioned drawbacks. Additionally or alternatively, it is an objective of the invention to provide a system in which harmful leakage can be reduced or prevented when preparing a beverage from a capsule using a fluid supplied under pressure in the capsule. Additionally or alternatively, it is an objective of the invention to provide improved sealing when using a capsule in a beverage preparation apparatus. Additionally or alternatively, it is an objective of the invention to provide a system in which the interoperability between capsules and beverage preparation devices is improved. For this purpose, the invention provides a system for preparing a potable beverage, the system comprising: a first capsule and a second alternative capsule, each containing a substance for preparing a potable beverage by extracting and / or dissolving the substance by means of a fluid supplied under pressure in the capsule, wherein the first capsule and the second alternative capsule each comprise an aluminum capsule body having a central axis of the capsule body, the aluminum capsule body being provided with a bottom portion, a side wall and an outwardly extending flange, and further comprising an aluminum cover coupled to the outwardly extending flange, the cover hermetically sealing the capsule;a first beverage preparation device including a first surrounding member for receiving the first capsule or the alternative second capsule, wherein the first surrounding member comprises first fluid injection means for supplying pressurized fluid into the capsule received in the first surrounding member, wherein the first beverage preparation device comprises a first closing member for closing the first surrounding member, wherein the first surrounding member includes a first annular element having a first annular element center axis and a first free contact end, the first free contact end of the first annular element being optionally provided with a plurality of first radially extending open grooves;a second beverage preparation device including a second surrounding member for receiving the first capsule or the alternative second capsule, wherein the second surrounding member comprises second fluid injection means for supplying pressurized fluid into the capsule received in the second surrounding member, wherein the second beverage preparation device comprises a second closing member for closing the second surrounding member, wherein the second surrounding member includes a second annular element having a second annular element center axis and a second free contact end, the second free contact end of the second annular element being optionally provided with a plurality of second radially extending open grooves;wherein the first capsule and the second alternative capsule each include a sealing member in the flange extending outwards to provide fluid sealing contact with the first surrounding member if the capsule is located in the first surrounding member and the first surrounding member is closed by means of the first closing member, such that the outward-extending flange of the first capsule or second alternative capsule and at least a portion of the sealing member of the first capsule or second alternative capsule are hermetically coupled between the first surrounding member and the first closing member;wherein the sealing member of the first capsule and the alternative second capsule is integral with the outwardly extending flange and comprises at least one projection extending from the outwardly extending flange, the at least one projection comprising a projection upper portion, and wherein the at least one projection is configured such that its projection upper portion exerts a radial force on the first free contact end / zofrcn / Lznz / q / γΐΛΐ of the first annular element if the capsule is located in the first surrounding member and the first surrounding member is closed by means of the first closing member of the first beverage preparation device; wherein there is no sealing interface between the first capsule and the second surrounding member to provide fluid sealing contact if the first capsule is located in the second surrounding member and the second surrounding member is closed by means of the second closing member;wherein there is a sealing interface between the second alternative capsule and the second surrounding member to provide fluid sealing contact if the second alternative capsule is located in the second surrounding member and the second surrounding member is closed by means of the second closing member. Advantageously, the system improves compatibility. The second alternative capsule is compatible with the second beverage preparation device and also with the first. This way, compatibility issues related to introducing a second beverage preparation device can be overcome. For example, the second beverage preparation device may be designed so that the first capsule does not provide a proper seal during percolation. The second alternative capsule used in the second beverage preparation device provides a proper seal, thus being compatible with both the second and the first beverage preparation device. The first capsule can be arranged to seal in the first beverage preparation device, but it will not seal in the second beverage preparation device. The alternative second capsule can be arranged to seal in both the first and second beverage preparation devices. The first capsule can be used in the first beverage preparation device where, during use (during percolation), the seal is achieved by means of the sealing member, preventing leakage. However, the sealing member of the first capsule may not be suitable for providing a sealing interface or sealing contact in the second beverage preparation device. Therefore, the first capsule in the second beverage preparation device may leak during use (during percolation). The second alternative capsule can be arranged so that leakage is prevented during use in both the first and second beverage preparation devices. For this purpose, the second alternative capsule can have an additional sealing portion, a different sealing member, an additional sealing member, a shape that fits the seal (e.g., arranged to seal against a side wall), other dimensions, additional means, etc., to provide sealing contact between the second alternative capsule and the second beverage preparation device during use. Optionally, the second alternative capsule includes at least two sealing portions, wherein a first sealing portion is arranged to provide a first sealing interface if the second alternative capsule is located on the first surrounding member of the first beverage preparation device and the first surrounding member is closed by means of the first closing member, and wherein a second sealing portion is arranged to provide a second sealing interface if the second alternative capsule is located on the second surrounding member and the second surrounding member is closed by means of the second closing member, the first sealing interface being different from the second sealing interface. Optionally, the first capsule has the same sealing interface as the second alternative capsule if the first capsule is located on the first surrounding member of the first beverage preparation device, wherein the sealing interface of the first capsule corresponds to the first sealing interface of the second alternative capsule. Optionally, the second alternative capsule includes an alternative sealing member to provide a second sealing interface between the second alternative capsule and the second surrounding member of the second beverage preparation device if the second alternative capsule is located within the second surrounding member and the second surrounding member is closed by means of the second closing member. Many variations are possible. For example, the alternative sealing member may be separate from the sealing member, the alternative sealing member may be in the same location on the rim of the second alternative capsule, or the alternative sealing member may have a different shape and / or material properties compared to the sealing member. The alternative sealing interface can be provided by means of an alternative sealing member disposed on the outward-extending flange, side wall and / or bottom of the second alternative capsule. Optionally, the alternative sealing member is located on at least one projection of the second alternative capsule. Optionally, the alternative sealing member is configured to be pressed against and in contact with the surrounding second member. Optionally, the alternative sealing member is elastically deformable. Optionally, the alternative sealing member is a flexible sealing member, such as a rubber elastic. Optionally, the alternative sealing member forms a self-strengthening sealing configuration when pressure is applied. Optionally, the alternative sealing member is made from a sponge. Optionally, the sponge can be made of aluminum. Aluminum sponge is not only relatively easy to manufacture, but it can also provide a satisfactory seal during use. In particular, the sealing element can provide a satisfactory seal with the free contact end featuring radially extending open grooves. Furthermore, it is environmentally friendly if the capsule is disposed of after use. It should be noted that aluminum sponge is sometimes also referred to as aluminum foam. Optionally, the second surrounding member includes a sealing element to provide the second sealing interface between the second alternative capsule and the second surrounding member of the second beverage preparation device if the second alternative capsule is located in the second surrounding member and the second surrounding member is closed by means of the second closing member. Optionally, the sealing element is configured to seal against the flange, side wall and / or bottom of the alternative second capsule, if the capsule is located in the second surrounding member and the second surrounding member is closed by means of the second closing member. Optionally, the sealing element is located in the second annular element of the second surrounding member. Optionally, the sealing element is configured to be pressed against and in contact with the second alternative capsule. Optionally, the sealing element is elastically deformable. Optionally, the sealing element forms a self-strengthening sealing configuration when pressure is applied. Optionally, the sealing element is made of a sponge, such as an aluminum sponge. Optionally, the sealing element includes a flexible sealing element, such as a rubber elastic. Optionally, the first surrounding member comes into contact with at least one projection without sealing contact between them, wherein upstream and / or downstream of the at least one projection, a sealing member or sealing element is arranged to provide sealing contact. The surrounding member may push against at least one projection, although it does not provide sealing contact between them. Sealing contact may be obtained by means of an alternative sealing member or sealing element to provide sealing contact upstream and / or downstream of at least one projection. Optionally, the second capsule includes a double sealing member, wherein the double sealing member is configured to provide a first sealing interface if the capsule is located on the first surrounding member of the first beverage preparation device and the first surrounding member is closed by means of the first closing member, and a different second sealing interface if the second alternative capsule is located on the second surrounding member and the second surrounding member is closed by means of the second closing member. Many variations are possible. For example, the first sealing interface may be separate from the second sealing interface, the first sealing interface may be in the same location on the rim of the second alternative capsule, or the second sealing interface may have a different shape and / or material properties compared to the first sealing interface. Optionally, the sealing member comprises an additional projection extending outward from the flange and a plateau between the two projections, wherein the distance between the two projections is such that the first free contact end of the first annular element is enclosed between the two projections if the first capsule or the alternative second capsule is located in the first surrounding member and the first surrounding member is closed by means of the closing member. Optionally, a first of the two projections of the sealing member projects further from an outwardly extending base portion of the flange, the base portion to which the cover is attached, than a second of the two projections of the sealing member. Optionally, the plateau has a lower end that is radially closer to the top of the second of the projections than to the top of the first of the projections. Optionally, a first of the two projections has a first conical inclined lateral surface on one side facing a second of the two projections and the second of the two projections has a second conical inclined lateral surface on one side facing the first of the two projections, the first lateral surface being larger from its upper end to its lower end than the second lateral surface. Optionally, a first of the two projections has a first conical inclined lateral surface on a side facing a second of the two projections, and the second of the two projections has a second inclined lateral surface on a side facing the first of the two projections. The first lateral surface has a conical generatrix at a first enclosed angle with respect to the deck, and the second lateral surface has a conical generatrix at a second enclosed angle with respect to the deck. The first angle is smaller than the second angle. Optionally, the first angle is between 40° and 60°, preferably greater than 45° and preferably less than 55°. Optionally, the second angle is between 60° and 85°, preferably greater than 70° and preferably less than 80°. Optionally, the first of the two projections has a maximum upper end extending around the capsule axis with a diameter of 31.8 to 32.0 mm and preferably 31.9 mm. Optionally, the second of the two projections has a maximum upper end extending around the capsule axis with a diameter of 29.7 to 30.0 mm and preferably 29.8 mm. Optionally, the first of the two protrusions is an external one of the two protrusions. Optionally, the plateau is axially separated from the deck. Optionally, the distance between the two projections is such that the first free contact end of the first annular element comes into contact with the two projections if the first capsule or the second alternative capsule is located on the first surrounding member and the first surrounding member is closed by means of the first closing member. Optionally, the two separate projections and the plateau are arranged such that the first free contact end of the first annular element comes into contact with the plateau if the first capsule or the alternative second capsule is located on the first surrounding member and the first surrounding member is closed by means of the first closing member. Optionally, the first capsule and the second alternative capsule, each comprising a bearing for the first surrounding member if the capsule is located in the first surrounding member and the first surrounding member is closed by means of the first closing member, the bearing encloses at least a portion of the first free contact end of the first annular element and the bearing is formed by the two projections and the plateau between them. Optionally, the plateau is substantially flat. Optionally, the plateau includes a curved portion. Optionally, the plateau is V-shaped. Optionally, the first capsule and the second alternative capsule, each containing an extractable product as a substance for the preparation of a drinking beverage, the extractable product preferably having 5-20 grams, preferably 5-10 grams, more preferably 5-7 grams of roasted and ground coffee. Optionally, the outer diameter of the flange that extends outwards from the capsule is greater than the diameter of the bottom of the capsule. Optionally, the outer diameter of the outward-extending flange is approximately 37.1 mm and the diameter of the bottom of the capsule is approximately 23.3 mm. Optionally, the thickness of the aluminum capsule body is such that it deforms easily if the capsule is placed in the surrounding member of the beverage preparation device and the surrounding member is closed by means of the closing member of the beverage preparation device, preferably the thickness of the aluminum capsule body is from 20 to 200 micrometers, preferably 100 micrometers. Optionally, the thickness of the aluminum cover is 15 to 65 micrometers, preferably 30-45 micrometers and most preferably 39 micrometers. Optionally, the wall thickness of the aluminum cover is less than the thickness of the aluminum capsule body. Optionally, the aluminum cover is arranged to tear open over the closing member of the beverage preparation device, such as a withdrawal plate of the beverage preparation device under the influence of fluid pressure in the capsule. / zofrcn / Lznz / q / YiAi Optionally, the side wall of the aluminum capsule body has a free end opposite the bottom; the outward-extending flange extends from the free end of the side wall in a direction at least substantially transverse to the central axis of the capsule body. Optionally, the outward-extending rim comprises a curled outer edge. Optionally, an inner edge of an outward-extending curled outer rim has a radius around the central axis of the capsule body of at least 16 mm. Optionally, the sealing member is located between the free end of the side wall of the aluminum capsule body and an inner edge of the outward-extending curled outer rim of the flange. Optionally, the curled outer edge of the flange that extends outwards has a larger dimension of approximately 1.2 mm, Optionally, the inner diameter of the free end of the side wall of the aluminum capsule body is approximately 29.5 mm. Optionally, the distance between the free end of the side wall of the aluminum capsule body and an outermost edge of the outward-extending flange is approximately 3.8 millimeters. Optionally, where the height of the aluminum capsule body is approximately 28.4 mm. Optionally, the aluminum capsule body is truncated, where preferably the side wall of the aluminum capsule body encloses an angle with a line transverse to the central axis of the capsule body of approximately 97.5°. Optionally, the lower part of the aluminum capsule body has a larger inner diameter of approximately 23.3 mm. Optionally, the lower part of the aluminum capsule body is truncated, preferably having a lower part height of approximately 4.0 mm and where the lower part also has a generally flat central portion opposite the cover which has a diameter of approximately 8.3 mm. Optionally, the height of the portion of the sealing member that is to first contact the free end of the surrounding member when the surrounding member is closed is at least approximately 0.1 mm, more preferably at least 0.2 mm and more preferably at least 0.8 mm and at most 3 mm, more preferably at most 2 mm and at most 1.2 mm. Optionally, the capsule comprises an inner surface / ZQfrCn / ίZΖΠZ� / ^ / YΙΛΙ, and an inner coating is provided on the inner surface of at least the side wall of the capsule. Optionally, the aluminum capsule cover is attached to the outward-extending flange by means of a sealing lacquer; the inner lining is made of the same material as the sealing lacquer. Optionally, the sealing member is free of an inner lining. Optionally, the capsule comprises an outer surface, and a colored lacquer is provided on the outer surface of the capsule. Optionally, an external coating is provided on an external surface of the colored lacquer. Optionally, the sealing member is free of a colored lacquer. Optionally, the at least one projection comprises a projection side wall that is inclined with respect to the flange that extends outward from the body of the aluminum capsule, the projection side wall being configured so that it is easily deformed if the capsule is placed in the surrounding member of the beverage preparation device and the surrounding member is closed by means of the closing member of the beverage preparation device. Optionally, the distance between the projection and the side wall of the aluminum capsule body is such that the first free contact end of the first annular element comes into contact with the projection and the side wall of the aluminum capsule body if the first capsule or the second alternative capsule is located in the first surrounding member of the beverage preparation device and the first surrounding member is closed by means of the first closing member of the first beverage preparation device. Optionally, the sealing member, in addition to at least one projection that extends outward from the flange, comprises a plateau between the top of the projection and the side wall of the aluminum capsule body. Optionally, a bearing is formed by the projection, the plateau, and the side wall of the aluminum capsule body, wherein the distance between the projection and the side wall is such that the first free contact end of the first annular element is enclosed by the projection and the side wall of the aluminum capsule body if the first capsule or the second alternative capsule is located in the first surrounding member of the first beverage preparation device and the first surrounding member is closed by means of the first closing member of the first beverage preparation device. Optionally, the projection, the side wall of the body / ZQfrCn / ίZΠZΖ / ^ / YΙΛΙ of the aluminum capsule and the plateau are arranged in such a way that the first free contact end of the first annular element is contacted by the plateau if the first capsule or the second alternative capsule is located in the first surrounding member of the first beverage preparation device and the first surrounding member is closed by means of a first closing member of the first beverage preparation device. Optionally, the sealing member includes a sealing structure. Optionally, the sealing structure is deformable in such a way that the fluid of the sealing member makes airtight contact with the fluid at least a portion of the first free contact end of the first annular element if, during use, the maximum fluid pressure in the first surrounding member of the first beverage preparation device is in the range of 6-20 bar, preferably between 12 and 18 bar. Optionally, the sealing structure is deformable such that the sealing member fluid makes hermetically seal contact with at least a portion of the first free contact end of the first annular element if, during percolation, the first free contact end of the first annular element exerts a force F2 on the sealing structure of the first capsule or the second alternative capsule, wherein F2 is in the range of 500-1500 N, preferably in the range of 750-1250 N when the fluid pressure P2 in the first surrounding member outside the capsule is in the range of 6-20 bar, preferably between 12 and 18 bar. Optionally, the sealing structure is deformable such that the fluid of the sealing member makes hermetically seal contact with the fluid at least a portion of the first free contact end of the first annular element if, during use, before or at the beginning of percolation, the first free contact end of the first annular element exerts a force F1 on the sealing structure of the first capsule or the alternative second capsule, where the force F1 is in the range of 30-150 N, preferably 40-150 N and more preferably 50-100 N, when the fluid pressure P1 in the first surrounding member of the first beverage preparation device outside the capsule is in the range of 0.1-4 bar, preferably 0.1-1 bar. Optionally, the sealing structure is deformable in such a way that the fluid of the sealing member makes hermetically seal contact with at least a portion of the first free contact end of the first annular element if the first free contact end of the first annular element that is pressed against the sealing structure has a plurality of open grooves extending radially / zofrcn / Lznz / 3 / γΐΛΐ uniformly spaced relative to each other circumferentially from the first free contact end of the first annular element. Optionally, the sealing structure is deformable such that the sealing member makes a tight contact with at least a portion of the free contact end of the annular element if the largest width of each of the grooves is 0.9 - 1.1 mm, preferably 0.95 to 1.05 mm, more preferably 0.98 to 1.02 mm, wherein a maximum height of each of the grooves in an axial direction of the surrounding member of the beverage preparation device is 0.01 - 0.09 mm, preferably 0.03 to 0.07 mm, more preferably 0.045 to 0.055 mm, most preferably 0.05 mm, and wherein the number of grooves is 90 to 110, preferably 96. Optionally, the sealing structure and the rest of the capsule body are made from the same plate material. According to one aspect, the invention provides a system for preparing a potable beverage, the system comprising: a multi-seal capsule containing a substance for preparing a potable beverage by extracting and / or dissolving the substance by means of a fluid supplied under pressure in the multi-seal capsule, wherein the multi-seal capsule comprises an aluminum capsule body having a central axis of the capsule body, the aluminum capsule body being provided with a bottom portion, a side wall and an outwardly extending flange, and further comprising an aluminum cover coupled to the outwardly extending flange, the cover hermetically sealing the multi-seal capsule;a first beverage preparation device including a first surrounding member for receiving the multi-seal capsule, wherein the first surrounding member comprises first fluid injection means for supplying pressurized fluid into the multi-seal capsule received in the first surrounding member, wherein the first beverage preparation device comprises a first closing member for closing the first surrounding member, wherein the first surrounding member includes a first annular element having a first annular element center axis and a first free contact end, the first free contact end of the first annular element being optionally provided with a plurality of first radially extending open grooves;a second beverage preparation device including a second surrounding member for receiving the multi-seal capsule, wherein the second surrounding member comprises second fluid injection means for supplying pressurized fluid into the multi-seal capsule received in the second surrounding member, wherein the second beverage preparation device comprises a second closing member for closing the second surrounding member, wherein the second surrounding member includes a second annular element having a second annular element center axis and a second free contact end, the second free contact end of the second annular element being optionally provided with a plurality of second radially extending open grooves;wherein the multi-seal capsule includes a sealing member in the flange that extends outward to provide fluid sealing contact with the first surrounding member if the capsule is located in the first surrounding member and the first surrounding member is closed by means of the first closing member, such that the outward-extending flange of the multi-seal capsule and at least a portion of the sealing member of the multi-seal capsule are tightly coupled between the first surrounding member and the first closing member;wherein the sealing member of the multi-seal capsule is integral with the outwardly extending flange and comprises at least one projection extending from the outwardly extending flange, the at least one projection comprising a projection top portion, and wherein the at least one projection is configured such that its projection top portion exerts a radial force on the first free contact end of the first annular element if the capsule is located in the first surrounding member and the first surrounding member is closed by means of the first closing member of the first beverage preparation device;wherein there is a first sealing interface between the multi-seal capsule and the first surrounding member to provide fluid sealing contact if the multi-seal capsule is located in the first surrounding member and the first surrounding member is closed by means of the first closing member; wherein there is a second sealing interface, different from the first sealing interface, between the multi-seal capsule and the second surrounding member to provide fluid sealing contact if the multi-seal capsule is located in the second surrounding member and the second surrounding member is closed by means of the second closing member. For example, the second beverage preparation device may differ from the first, such that the first sealing interface does not allow sealing (during percolation) on the second beverage preparation device, and vice versa. Additionally, the multi-seal capsule may be configured to allow sealing on the first beverage preparation device at the first sealing interface (zofrcn / Lznz / q / GALA) and optionally not at the second sealing interface. Therefore, the multi-seal capsule can be compatible with both the first and second beverage preparation devices, ensuring proper sealing during use. The multi-seal capsule may correspond to the alternative second capsule. It will be noted that the multi-seal capsule can be a double-seal capsule. A three-seal capsule, a four-seal capsule, etc., are also considered. Optionally, the second alternative capsule has one or two sealing members. In one example, both the first capsule and the second alternative capsule have the same first sealing member arranged to provide a sealing action on the first beverage preparation device, whereas the second alternative capsule has an additional sealing member configured to provide a sealing action on the second beverage preparation device. Optionally, the first capsule and the second alternative capsule have different sealing members, wherein the sealing member of the first capsule is arranged to provide a sealing action in the first beverage preparation device but not in the second beverage preparation device, and wherein the sealing member of the second alternative capsule is arranged to provide a sealing action if used in either the first beverage preparation device or the second beverage preparation device. The second alternative capsule may be backward compatible with the first beverage preparation device, while also being suitable for providing the required sealing action in the second beverage preparation device to prevent leakage. According to one aspect, the system comprises the first beverage preparation device, the second beverage preparation device, and a multi-seal capsule, wherein the capsule comprises a first seal arranged to provide sealing (during percolation) in the first beverage preparation device, optionally also in the second beverage preparation device, and optionally a second seal arranged to provide sealing (during percolation) in the second beverage preparation device if the first seal does not provide sealing (during percolation) in the second beverage preparation device. It will be noted that it is also contemplated that any one of the first or second beverage preparation device has two or more percolation chambers, each for receiving either the first capsule or the second alternative capsule. A plurality of surrounding members may be arranged for this purpose. It may be possible for the first beverage preparation device and / or the second beverage preparation device to be arranged to receive two or more capsules simultaneously, with each surrounding member of the plurality of surrounding members of the first beverage preparation device and / or the second beverage preparation device being arranged to receive only one of the first capsule or the second alternative capsule. According to one aspect, the invention provides a multi-seal capsule containing a substance for preparing a potable beverage by extracting and / or dissolving the substance by means of a fluid supplied under pressure in the multi-seal capsule, wherein the multi-seal capsule comprises an aluminum capsule body having a central capsule body axis, the aluminum capsule body being provided with a bottom portion, a side wall and an outwardly extending flange, and further comprising an aluminum cover coupled to the outwardly extending flange, the cover hermetically sealing the multi-seal capsule;wherein the multi-seal capsule is arranged to be received in a first beverage preparation device including a first surrounding member for receiving the multi-seal capsule, wherein the first surrounding member comprises first fluid injection means for supplying pressurized fluid to the multi-seal capsule received in the first surrounding member, wherein the first beverage preparation device comprises a first closing member for closing the first surrounding member, wherein the first surrounding member includes a first annular element having a first annular element center axis and a first free contact end, the first free contact end of the first annular element being optionally provided with a plurality of first radially extending open grooves;wherein the multi-seal capsule is arranged to be received in a second beverage preparation device including a second surrounding member for receiving the multi-seal capsule, wherein the second surrounding member comprises second fluid injection means for supplying pressurized fluid to the multi-seal capsule received in the second surrounding member, wherein the second beverage preparation device comprises a second closing member for closing the second surrounding member, wherein the second surrounding member includes a second annular element having a second annular element center axis and a second free contact end, the second free contact end of the second annular element being optionally provided with a plurality of second radially extending open grooves;wherein the multi-seal capsule includes a sealing member in the outward-extending flange to provide fluid sealing contact with the first surrounding member if the capsule is located in the first surrounding member and the first surrounding member is closed by means of the first closing member, such that the outward-extending flange of the multi-seal capsule and at least a portion of the sealing member of the multi-seal capsule are tightly coupled between the first surrounding member and the first closing member;wherein the sealing member of the multi-seal capsule is integral with the outwardly extending flange and comprises at least one projection extending from the outwardly extending flange, the at least one projection comprising a projection top, and wherein the at least one projection is configured such that its projection top exerts a radial force on the first free contact end of the first annular element if the capsule is located in the first surrounding member and the first surrounding member is closed by means of the first closing member of the first beverage preparation device; wherein there is a first sealing interface between the multi-seal capsule and the first surrounding member to provide fluid sealing contact if the multi-seal capsule is located in the first surrounding member and the first surrounding member is closed by means of the first closing member;where there is / zofrcn / Lznz / q / YiAi a second sealing interface, different from the first sealing interface, between the multi-seal capsule and the second surrounding member to provide fluid sealing contact if the multi-seal capsule is located in the second surrounding member and the second surrounding member is closed by means of the second closing member.; According to one aspect of the invention, the system includes the first beverage preparation device, the second beverage preparation device, the first capsule, and the second alternative capsule. According to one aspect of the invention, the system includes the first beverage preparation device, the second beverage preparation device, and the first capsule. According to one aspect of the invention, the system includes the first beverage preparation device, the second beverage preparation device, and the second alternative capsule. According to one aspect of the invention, the system includes the first beverage preparation device, the first capsule, and the second alternative capsule. According to one aspect of the invention, the system includes the second beverage preparation device, the first capsule, and the second alternative capsule. According to one aspect of the invention, the system includes the first beverage preparation device, and the second alternative capsule. According to one aspect of the invention, the system includes the second beverage preparation device, and the first capsule. According to one aspect of the invention, the system includes the second beverage preparation device, and the second alternative capsule. According to one aspect of the invention, a kit is provided that includes the first capsule, and the alternative second capsule. According to one aspect of the invention, the second beverage preparation device is provided. According to one aspect of the invention, the second alternative capsule is provided. According to one aspect, a method is provided for preparing, e.g., a single portion of a drinking beverage using a system as described herein. It will be appreciated that any of the aspects, features, and options described in the system view apply equally to the beverage and capsule preparation method and device described. It will also be clear that one or more of the above aspects, features, and options may be combined. / zofrcn / Lznz / q / YiAi Brief Description of the Figures The invention will also be elucidated on the basis of illustrative embodiments shown in a figure. These illustrative embodiments are provided for non-limiting purposes. It is noted that the figures are merely schematic representations of embodiments of the invention, given as non-limiting examples. Figure 1 shows a cross-sectional schematic diagram of one mode of a system; Figure 2 shows in a perspective view a modality of a beverage preparation device of a system showing the free contact end of the surrounding member of the beverage preparation device with the plurality of radially extending open slots; Figures 3A and 3B show a cross-section of a capsule modality before use; Figure 4 shows a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a system; Figures 5A and 5B show a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a system; Figures 6A and 6B show a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a system; Figures 7A and 7B show a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a system; Figures 8A and 8B show in cross section a / ZQfrCn / ίZΖΠZΖ / ^ / YΙΛΙ schematic diagram of a system; Figures 9A and 9B show a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a system; Figures 10A and 10B show a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a system; Figures 11A and 11B show a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a system; Figures 12A and 12B show a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a system; Figures 13A and 13B show a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a system; Figures 14A and 14B show a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a system; Figures 15A and 15B show a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a system; Figures 16A and 16B show a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a system; Figure 17 shows a cross-sectional perspective schematic diagram of a second surrounding member; Figure 18 shows a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a system; Figure 19 shows a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a system; Figure 20 shows a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a system; Figure 21 shows a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a system; Figures 22A and 22B show a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a system; and Figures 23A and 23B show a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a system. Detailed Description of the Invention Figure 1 shows a schematic representation, in cross-sectional view, of an illustrative embodiment of a system 1 for preparing a drinkable beverage from a capsule using a fluid supplied under pressure in the capsule. The system 1 comprises a capsule 2 and a beverage preparation device 4. The device 4 comprises a surrounding member 6 for holding the capsule 2. The device 4 further comprises a closing member, such as an extraction plate, 8 for supporting the capsule 2. Figure 1 shows a separation between the capsule 2, the surrounding member 6, and the extraction plate 8 for clarity. It will be seen that, in use, the capsule 2 may be in contact with the surrounding member 6 and the extraction plate member 8. Typically, the surrounding member 6 has a shape complementary to the shape of the capsule 2. The beverage preparation device 4 further comprises a fluid injection means 10 for supplying a quantity of a fluid, such as water, at a pressure in the range of 6–20 bar, preferably between 12 and 18 bar, to the interchangeable capsule 2. In the example shown in Figure 1, the interchangeable capsule 2 comprises an aluminum capsule body 12 having a central capsule body axis 12A and an aluminum cover 14. In the present context, the meaning of 'aluminum' is understood to also include aluminum alloy. In this example, the aluminum capsule body 12 comprises a side wall 16, a bottom portion 18 that closes the side wall 16 at a first end, and an outwardly extending flange 20 that extends outward from the circumferential wall 16 at a second end opposite the bottom portion 18. The side wall 16, the bottom portion 18, and the cover 14 enclose an interior space 22 that contains a substance for preparing a drinking beverage by extracting and / or dissolving the substance.Preferably, the substance is an extractable product for preparing a drinking beverage. The extractable product preferably contains 5-20 grams, preferably 5-10 grams, and most preferably 5-7 grams of roasted and ground coffee for preparing a single serving of the beverage. The capsule is initially sealed, i.e., hermetically sealed before use. System 1 of Figure 1 comprises lower drilling means 24 for drilling the lower portion 18 of capsule 2 to create at least one inlet opening 25 in the lower portion 18 to supply fluid to the extractable product through the inlet opening 25. System 1 of Figure 1 further comprises cover-piercing means 26, incorporated herein as projections of the closing member 8, for piercing the cover 14 of the capsule 2. The cover-piercing means 26 can be arranged to tear the cover 14 once the (fluid) pressure within the internal space 22 exceeds a threshold pressure and presses the cover 14 against the cover-piercing means 26 with sufficient force. Therefore, the aluminum cover 14 is arranged to tear open over the closing member 8 of the beverage preparation device under the influence of the fluid pressure in the capsule. The capsule 2 further comprises an integral sealing member 28 with an outwardly extending flange, referred to as a general box in Figures 1, 3A, and 3B, but described in more detail with respect to Figure 4. This sealing member 28 is arranged to provide fluid sealing contact with the surrounding member 6 if the capsule 2 is located in the surrounding member 6 and the surrounding member 6 is closed by means of the extraction plate 8, such that the outwardly extending flange 20 of the capsule 2 and at least a portion of the sealing member 28 are hermetically coupled between the surrounding member 6 and the extraction plate 8. This means that fluid sealing contact is established between the sealing member and the free contact end. Figure 2 shows an example of the surrounding member 6 of the beverage preparation device comprising an annular element 41 having a central axis of the annular element 41A and a free contact end 30. The free contact end 30 of the annular element 41 is provided with a plurality of radially extending open grooves 40. The plurality of radially extending open grooves 40 are uniformly spaced from each other in the tangential direction of the free contact end 30 of the annular element 41. The longest tangential width of each groove 40 is 0.9–1.1 mm, preferably 0.95–1.05 mm, more preferably 0.98–1.02 mm, wherein the maximum height of each groove 40 in an axial direction of the surrounding member 6 is 0.01–0.09 mm, preferably 0.03–0.07 mm, more preferably 0.045 mm. to 0.055 mm and, with the highest preference, 0.05 mm. The number of grooves 40 is in the range of 90 to 110, preferably 96.Usually, the radial width of the free end at the location of the grooves is 0.05 - 0.9 mm, more specifically, 0.2 - 0.7 mm, more specifically, 0.3 - 0.55 mm. / zofrcn / Lznz / q / γΐΛΐ An illustrative embodiment of a capsule according to the invention is shown in more detail in Figures 3A and 3B. In the embodiment shown, the outer diameter ODF of the outwardly extending flange 20 is greater than the diameter DB of the lower portion 18 of the capsule 2. In the embodiment shown, the outer diameter ODF of the outwardly extending flange 20 is approximately 37.1 mm and the diameter DB of the lower portion 18 is approximately 23.3 mm. The thickness of the aluminum capsule body 12 is such that it is easily deformed if the capsule is placed in the surrounding member of the beverage preparation device and the surrounding member is closed by means of a closing member of the beverage preparation device. Preferably, the thickness of the aluminum capsule body is 100 micrometers, but in other embodiments, the thickness can be from 20 to 200 micrometers. In the embodiment shown, the wall thickness of the aluminum cover 14 is 39 micrometers. The wall thickness of the aluminum cover 14 is preferably less than the thickness of the aluminum capsule body 12. The side wall 16 of the aluminum capsule body 12 has a free end 42 opposite the bottom portion 18. The inside diameter IDE of the free end 42 of the side wall 16 of the aluminum capsule body 12 is approximately 29.5 mm. The outward-extending flange 20 extends from this free end 42 in a direction at least substantially transverse to the centerline of the capsule body 12A. The outward-extending flange 20 comprises a curled outer edge 43 that is beneficial for obtaining a seal between the capsule and the surrounding member. In the embodiment shown, the curled outer edge 43 of the outward-extending flange 20 has a larger dimension of approximately 1.2 mm. The distance DIF between the free end 42 of the side wall 16 of the aluminum capsule body 12 and an inside edge 43A of the curled outer edge 43 is approximately 2 mm.7 mm, while the DOF distance between the free end 42 of the side wall 16 of the aluminum capsule body 12 and the outermost edge 43B of the outwardly extending flange 20 is approximately 3.8 mm. The radius around the central axis of the capsule body of the inner edge 43A of the curled outer edge 43 is preferably at least 16 mm. As shown in Figures 3A and 3B, the sealing member 28 is located between the free end of the side wall 16 of the aluminum capsule body 12 and the inner edge 43A of the curled outer edge 42 of the outwardly extending flange. The sealing member 28 is referred to as a general box, but will be described in more detail later. Regardless of the configuration of the sealing member 28, the height of the portion of the sealing member that is to be first contacted by the free end of the surrounding member when the surrounding member closes is at least approximately 0.1 mm, more preferably at least 0.2 mm, and more preferably at least 0.8 mm and at most 3 mm, more preferably at most 2 mm, and more preferably at most 1.2 mm to provide a proper seal. As can be seen in Figure 3A, the aluminum capsule body 12 is truncated. In the configuration shown, the side wall 16 of the aluminum capsule body 12 forms an angle A with a line transverse to the central axis of the capsule body 12A of approximately 97.5°. The lower portion 18 of the aluminum capsule body 12 has a larger inner diameter DB of approximately 23.3 mm. The lower portion 18 of the aluminum capsule body 12 is also truncated, and in the configuration shown, it has a lower portion height BH of approximately 4.0 mm. The lower part 18 also has a generally flat central portion 18A opposite the cover 14; this central portion 18A has a DEE diameter of approximately 8.3 mm and in this central portion 18 the inlet opening(s) 25 may be made. The inlet openings may also be made in the truncated portion between the central portion 18A and the side wall 16.The total height TH of the body of the / zofrcn / Lznz / q / YiAi aluminum 12 capsule is approximately 28.4 mm. System 1 shown in Figure 1 works as follows to prepare a cup of a drinking beverage, in this example coffee, where the substance is roasted and ground coffee. Capsule 2 is placed in the surrounding member 6. The extraction plate 8 is brought into contact with capsule 2. The lower piercing means 24 pierce the lower part 18 of capsule 2 to create the inlet openings 25. The fluid, in this case pressurized hot water, is supplied to the extractable product in the interior space 22 through the inlet openings 25. The water will moisten the coffee beans and extract the desired substances to form the coffee beverage. During the supply of pressurized water to the inner space 22, the pressure inside capsule 2 will increase. This increase in pressure will cause the cover 14 to deform and press against the lid-piercing means 26 of the extraction plate. Once the pressure reaches a certain level, the tear resistance of the cover 14 will be overcome, and the cover 14 will break against the lid-piercing means 26, creating outlet openings. The brewed coffee will drain from capsule 2 through the outlet openings and outlets 32 (see Figure 1) of the extraction plate 8 and can be dispensed into a container such as a cup (not shown). System 1 is arranged such that before or at the beginning of percolation, the free end 30 of the surrounding member 6 exerts a force F1 on the sealing member 28 of the capsule 2 to provide a fluid sealing contact between the outwardly extending flange 20 of the capsule 2 and the surrounding member 6 of the beverage preparation device, wherein F1 is in the range of 30-150 N, preferably 40-150 N, more preferably 50-100 N, when the fluid pressure Pl in the surrounding member of the beverage preparation device outside the capsule is in the range of 0.1-4 bar, preferably 0.1-1 bar.During percolation, the free end 30 of the surrounding member 6 exerts a force F2 on the sealing member 28 of the capsule 2 to provide a fluid sealing contact between the outwardly extending flange 20 of the capsule 2 and the surrounding member 6, wherein the force F2 is in the range of 500-1500 N, preferably in the range of 750-1250 N, when the fluid pressure P2 in the surrounding member 6 of the beverage preparation device outside the capsule 2 is in the range of 6-20 bar, preferably between 12 and 18 bar. In the mode shown, the free contact end of the surrounding member 6 can move relative to the extraction plate 8 under the effect of fluid pressure / ZQfrCn / ίZΖΠZΖ / ^ / YΙΛΙ in the surrounding member device 6 towards the extraction plate 8 to apply the maximum force F2 between the outwardly extending flange 20 and the free end 30 of the surrounding member 6.This movement can occur during use, particularly at the beginning of percolation and during percolation. The surrounding member 6 has a first part 6A and a second part 6B, where the second part comprises the free contact end 30. The second part 6B can move relative to the first part 6A between a first and a second position. The second part 6B can move from the first position to the second position in the direction of the closing member 8 under the influence of the fluid pressure in the surrounding member 6. The force F1, as described above, can be achieved if the second part 6B is in the first position with a fluid pressure P1. The force F2, as described above, can be achieved if the second part 6B moves to the second position under the influence of the fluid pressure P2 in the surrounding member 6. As a result of the applied force, the capsule's sealing member 28 undergoes plastic deformation and conforms closely to the grooves 40 of the free contact end 30. It thus provides fluid sealing contact between the surrounding member 6 and the capsule 3 at a relatively low fluid pressure during the onset of percolation, but also provides fluid sealing contact at the much higher fluid pressure in the surrounding member outside the capsule during percolation. This close conformity to the grooves 40 of the surrounding member can result in the outwardly extending flange 20 comprising deformations 40' that conform to the grooves 40 of the surrounding member. Figure 4 shows in cross section a schematic diagram of an illustrative system as described in relation to Figures 1-3B with a first preparation device and a first capsule 2a. The first capsule 2a comprises a sealing member 28 in the flange extending outward 20 from the capsule 2a. The first beverage preparation device includes a first surrounding member 6 having a first annular element 41 having a first free contact end 30 with a plurality of radially extending open grooves 40 some of which are shown in Figure 4. The sealing member 28 comprises two separate projections 50 and 51, each projecting axially from an outwardly extending base portion of the flange 20, the base portion to which the cover 14 is attached, in a direction opposite to the cover 14. A plateau 52 having a rounded bottom is located between the two projections 50 and 51. / zofrcn / Lznz / q / γΐΛΐ The first of the two projections 51 extends further from a base portion 23 of the outwardly extending flange 20 than the second of the two projections 50. It will be appreciated that this is optional and other configurations of the projections 50, 51 are possible. Furthermore, in this example, a lower portion 56 of an annular duct 55 between the inner projection 51 and the side wall 16 is axially separated from the base portion 23 to which the cover is attached. Preferably, the axial distance from the lower portion 56 to the cover is less than the axial distance from the plateau 52 to the cover 14. When the first surrounding member 6 and / or the first closing member 8 moves towards the other with the sealing member 28 of the first capsule 2a in between, the free contact end 30 of the annular element 41 can first make contact with the first of the two projections 51 and subsequently make contact with the second of the two projections. If and when the free contact end 30 of the annular element 41 contacts the inside of one of the two projections 51, the capsule 2a is centered with respect to the first surrounding member 6. Furthermore, if the inside of the two projections 51 is too far radially from the outside, for example, locally due to the non-circularity or non-centered location of the capsule, or generally because the free contact area has a relatively small diameter, the free contact end drives the inside of one of the two projections 51 radially inwards. The outside of the two projections is thus drawn inwards, such that a firm and reliable sealing pressure is exerted on the outside of the two projections 50 despite the relatively small deformability of that outer projection 51 due to its smaller height.The relatively high rigidity of the outer surface of the two 50 protrusions allows for a large contact force to be exerted as it deforms. The relatively high back pressure provides a particularly reliable seal with resistance to high pressures. Furthermore, as the outer surface of the two 50 protrusions is pushed outwards, the load is counteracted by the circumferential tension in the outer surface of the two 50 protrusions, which is distributed uniformly, thus achieving a uniformly distributed sealing pressure. The first free contact end 30 of the annular element 41 has an inner circumferential surface portion 71 that contacts the inner projection 51 and an outer circumferential surface portion 70 that contacts the outer projection 50. The radially extending open grooves 40 are deeper in the inner surface portion 71 than in the outer surface portion 70, or the grooves may be absent in the outer surface portion. 70. Therefore, the smaller, relatively rigid external projection 50 is pressed firmly and precisely against the relatively smooth outer surface portion 70 of the free contact end 30. The distance between the two projections 50 and 51 is such that ultimately the free contact end 30 of the annular element 41 is squeezed between the converging surfaces of the two projections 50 and 51 when the first surrounding member is completely closed by means of the closing member. The plateau 52 is axially separated from the cover 14. This allows the plateau 52 between the projections 50, 51 to shift in the direction of relative movement of the free end 30 of the annular element 41 as the surrounding member 6 closes, causing the projections 50, 51 to tilt and roll inward against the free end 30 of the annular element 41 as the first surrounding member 6 closes. This increases the radial sealing pressure exerted (in addition to the axial closing pressure), so that a higher sealing pressure is available to provide a satisfactory seal. As shown in Figures 1-4, sealing can be achieved under the influence of forces and pressures. It will be seen that this concept also applies to other methods, for example, as shown in Figures 5A-23B. Figures 5A and 5B each show a cross-sectional schematic diagram of an example of a system for preparing a drinking beverage. The system comprises a first capsule 2a containing a substance for preparing a drinking beverage by extracting and / or dissolving the substance using a fluid supplied under pressure in the first capsule 2a. The first capsule 2a comprises an aluminum capsule body having a central capsule body axis. The aluminum capsule body is provided with a bottom portion, a side wall 16, and an outwardly extending flange 20. It further comprises an aluminum cover 14 coupled to the outwardly extending flange 20. The cover 14 hermetically seals the first capsule 2a.The systems shown in Figures 5A and 5B further include a first beverage preparation device comprising a first surrounding member 6a for receiving the first capsule 2a or an alternative second capsule (not shown). The first surrounding member 6a may comprise first fluid injection means for supplying pressurized fluid to the capsule received in the first surrounding member 6a, wherein the first beverage preparation device comprises a first closing member (not illustrated) for closing the first surrounding member 6a, wherein the first surrounding member 6a includes a first annular element having a first central axis of the annular element and a first free contact end 30a, the first free contact end 30a of the first annular element being optionally provided with a plurality of first radially extending open grooves. Both first capsules 2a of the modality shown in Figures 5A and 5B can be used in the first beverage preparation device having the first surrounding member 6a. The first capsules 2a shown in Figures 5A, 5B, each include a sealing member 28a, 28b, respectively, in the outwardly extending flange 20 to provide fluid sealing contact with the first surrounding member 6a of the first beverage preparation device if the capsule 2a is located in the first surrounding member 6a and the first surrounding member 6a is closed by means of the first closing member of the first beverage preparation device, such that the outwardly extending flange 20 of the first capsule 2a and at least a portion of the sealing member 28a, 28b of the first capsule 2a are tightly coupled between the first surrounding member 6a and the first closing member.The sealing member 28a, 28b of the first capsule 2a is integral with the outwardly extending flange 20 and comprises at least one projection extending from the outwardly extending flange, the at least one projection comprising a projection upper portion, and wherein the at least one projection is configured such that its projection upper portion exerts a radial force on the first free contact end 30a of the first annular element if the capsule is located in the first surrounding member 6a and the first surrounding member 6a is closed by means of the first closing member of the first beverage preparation device. The first beverage preparation device and the first capsule are arranged such that there is a sealing interface between the first capsule 2a and the first surrounding member 6a, to provide a fluid sealing contact if the first capsule 2a is located in the first surrounding member 2a and the first surrounding member 6a is closed by means of the first closing member of the first beverage preparation device. Illustrative modalities of a second alternative capsule 2b, which includes an alternative sealing member 100 in the second alternative capsule 2b, will now be described. In Figures 6A-13B, the elements that have the same function and structure as those in the systems shown in any one of Figures 1-5B have identical or similar numbers, and a detailed explanation of these elements will be omitted. Figures 6A and 6B each show a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a system. The system / zofrcn / Lznz / q / YiAi includes a second alternative capsule 2b with an aluminum capsule body having a central capsule body axis. The aluminum capsule body is provided with a bottom, a side wall 16, and an outwardly extending flange 20. It further comprises an aluminum cover 14 coupled to the outwardly extending flange 20. The cover hermetically seals the second alternative capsule 2b. The system further includes a second beverage preparation device comprising a second surrounding member 6b for receiving the first capsule 2a or the alternative second capsule 2b, wherein the second surrounding member 6b comprises second fluid injection means for supplying pressurized fluid into the capsule received in the second surrounding member 6b, wherein the second beverage preparation device comprises a second closing member for closing the second surrounding member 6b, wherein the second surrounding member 6b includes a second annular element having a second annular element center axis and a second free contact end 30b, the second free contact end 30b of the second annular element being optionally provided with a plurality of second radially extending open grooves. It shall be understood that there is no sealing interface between the first capsule 2a (not shown) and the second surrounding member 6b to provide fluid sealing contact if the first capsule 2a is located in the second surrounding member 6b and the second surrounding member 6b is closed by means of the second closing member of the second beverage preparation device. A sealing interface exists between the second alternative capsule 2b and the second surrounding member 6b to provide fluid sealing contact if the second alternative capsule 2b is located in the second surrounding member 6b and the second surrounding member 6b is closed by means of the second closing member. In this example, the second alternative capsule 2b includes at least two sealing portions 100a, 100b, wherein a first sealing portion 100a is arranged to provide a first sealing interface 101a if the second alternative capsule 2b is located in the first surrounding member 6a of the first beverage preparation device and the first surrounding member 6a is closed by means of the first closing member, and wherein a second sealing portion 100b is arranged to provide a second sealing interface 101b if the second alternative capsule 2b is located in the second surrounding member 6b and the second surrounding member 6b is closed by means of the second closing member, the first sealing interface being different from the second sealing interface. The second alternative capsule 2b in this example further includes an alternative sealing member 105 to provide the second sealing interface between the second alternative capsule and the second surrounding member 6b of the second beverage preparation device if the second alternative capsule 2b is located in the second surrounding member 6b and the second surrounding member 6b is closed by means of the second closing member. It will be appreciated that the alternative sealing member 105 can alternatively be formed as a preformed shape in the outward-extending flange 20, or elsewhere in the capsule body 12 of capsule 2a. In one example, the alternative sealing member 105 can be unitary with respect to the aluminum capsule body 12 of the second alternative capsule 2b (e.g., outward-extending flange, side wall, etc.). Figures 7A and 7B each show a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a system. In this example, the alternative sealing member 105 is disposed in the side wall 16 of the second alternative capsule 2b. The free end 30b of the second surrounding member 6b can interact with the alternative sealing member 105 to provide a fluid-tight sealing contact. It will be understood that there is no sealing interface between the first capsule 2a and the second surrounding member 6b, and that there is a sealing interface between the second alternative capsule 2b and the second surrounding member 6b. It will be appreciated that in an alternative example, the alternative sealing member 105 can be formed as a preformed shape in the outwardly extending flange 20. The alternative sealing member 105 can be, for example, unitary with respect to the aluminum capsule body 12 of the second alternative capsule 2b (see, for example, Figures 8A and 8B). Figures 8A and 8B each show a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a system in which the alternative sealing member 105 of the second alternative capsule 2b is formed by a projection on the side wall 16. As in the examples shown in Figures 7A and 7B, the free end of the second surrounding member 6b can be pushed against the alternative sealing member 105 to provide a fluid-tight sealing contact. It is understood that there is no sealing interface between the first capsule 2a and the second surrounding member 6b, and that there is a sealing interface between the second alternative capsule 2b and the second surrounding member 6b. Figures 9A and 9B each show a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a system, wherein the alternative sealing member 105 is disposed on the outwardly extending flange 20 of the second alternative capsule 2b. The alternative sealing member 105 is disposed on a radially outside portion of the outwardly extending flange 20 relative to the sealing member 28a, 28b. The alternative sealing member has two projections, wherein the second free end 30b of the second surrounding member 6b can be received between the two projections to form a fluid-tight seal if the second alternative capsule 2b is located on the second surrounding member 6b and the second surrounding member 6b is closed by means of the second closing member.It will be appreciated that a different number of projections can be used to obtain the sealing interface that results in fluid-tight sealing during percolation. It will be understood that there is no sealing interface between the first capsule 2a and the second surrounding member 6b, and that there is a sealing interface between the second alternative capsule 2b and the second surrounding member 6b. Figures 10A and 10B each show a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a system. Similar to the example shown in Figures 9A and 9B, the alternative sealing member 105 is disposed on the outwardly extending flange 20 of the second alternative capsule 2b, on a radially external portion thereof. The alternative sealing member 105 includes a projection arranged to interact with the second free end 30b of the second surrounding member 6b to form a fluid-tight seal during percolation. It shall be understood that there is no sealing interface between the first capsule 2a and the second surrounding member 6b, and that there is a sealing interface between the second alternative capsule 2b and the second surrounding member 6b. Figures 11A and 11B each show a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a system. In this example, the second alternative sealing member 105 disposed on the outwardly extending flange 20 of the second alternative capsule 2b is formed by a projection adapted to provide an improved sealing interface with the second free end 30b of the second surrounding member 6b. It shall be understood that there is no sealing interface between the first capsule 2a and the second surrounding member 6b, and that there is a sealing interface between the second alternative capsule 2b and the second surrounding member 6b. Figures 12A and 12B each show a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a system. An alternative elastic sealing member 105 is disposed on the outward-extending flange 20 of the second alternative capsule 2b. The alternative elastic sealing member 105 largely covers the space between the sealing member 28a, 28b and the outer end of the outward-extending flange 20. In this way, the second alternative capsule can be compatible with a wide variety of second beverage preparation devices that have a surrounding member 6b / zofrcn / Lznz / 3 / γΐΛΐ arranged to seal by means of the second free end 30b at a particular location between the sealing member 28a, 28b and the outer end of the outward-extending flange 20.In one example, the alternative sealing member 105 acts as a cushion, compatible with a plurality of different second free ends 30b that have different properties, shapes, and / or dimensions. For example, in the system illustrated in Figures 13A and 13B, a surrounding second member 6b has a second free end 30b different from that shown in the example in Figures 12A and 12B. The alternative sealing member 105 also provides a fluid-tight seal contact when the surrounding second member 6b exerts a force on it. Figures 14A and 14B show a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a system with a second alternative capsule 2b and a first surrounding member 6a of a first beverage preparation device. A sealing interface exists between the second alternative capsule 2b and the first surrounding member 6a to provide fluid sealing contact if the second alternative capsule 2b is located within the first surrounding member 6a and the first surrounding member 6a is closed by means of the first closing member. In this example, the second alternative capsule 2b comprises an alternative sealing member 105.By means of the alternative sealing member 105, a sealing interface can be obtained when the second alternative capsule 2b is located in the second surrounding member 6b (see Figures 6A and 6B) of the second beverage preparation device, and the second surrounding member 6b is closed by means of the second closing member. It will be appreciated that the alternative sealing member 105 can be formed as a preformed shape in the outwardly extending flange 20 in the examples of Figures 12A-14B. The alternative sealing member 105 can be, for example, unitary with respect to the aluminum capsule body 12 of the second alternative capsule 2b. Figures 15A and 15B show a cross-section of a system with a second alternative capsule 2b and a first surrounding member 6a of a first beverage preparation device, similar to the example shown in Figures 14A and 14B. The alternative sealing member 105 is located radially outward with respect to the sealing member 28a, 28b of the second alternative capsule 2b. The alternative sealing member 105 is formed by an integral projection with the outwardly extending flange 20. It will be appreciated that other types of alternative sealing members may be used. Figures 16A and 16B show a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a system with a first capsule 2a and a second surrounding member 6b of a second beverage preparation device. There is no sealing interface between the first capsule 2a and the second surrounding member 6b of the second beverage preparation device to provide fluid sealing contact. If the first capsule 2a is located in the second surrounding member 6b and the second surrounding member 6b is closed by the second closing member, Figure 17 shows a cross-sectional perspective schematic diagram of a second surrounding member 6b of a second beverage preparation device. The second surrounding member 6b includes a plurality of radially extending open grooves 40. In this example, the second surrounding member 6b includes at least one smooth portion 44 free of the open grooves 40.The sealing interface between the second surrounding member 6b and the second alternative capsule 2b can be achieved by means of the smooth portion 44 of the second surrounding member 6b to provide fluid sealing contact if the second alternative capsule 2b is located on the second surrounding member 6b and the second surrounding member is closed by means of the second closing member. It will be appreciated that the smooth portion 44 can be located in different positions on the second surrounding member 6b. It is also contemplated that a plurality of smooth portions 44 are disposed on the second surrounding member 6b. Additionally or alternatively, the smooth portion 44 can have other shapes, such as a curved shape (e.g., convex, concave) to allow for improved sealing interaction with the second alternative capsule 2b.The smooth portion 44 can be arranged on a radially inner side of the second surrounding member 6b (inner wall facing the capsule). Figure 18 shows a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a system with a first capsule 2a and a second surrounding member 6b of a second beverage preparation device. The first capsule 2a includes a sealing member 28a in the outwardly extending flange 20 to provide fluid sealing contact with the first surrounding member 6a (cf. Figure 5A) of the first beverage preparation device if the capsule 2a is located in the first surrounding member 6a of the first beverage preparation device and the first surrounding member 6a is closed by the first closing member of the first beverage preparation device, such that the outwardly extending flange 20 of the capsule 2a and at least a portion of the sealing member 28a of the capsule 2a are hermetically coupled between the first surrounding member 6a and the first closing member.The sealing member 28a of the capsule 2a is integral with the outwardly extending flange 20 and comprises a projection extending from the outwardly extending flange. It will be appreciated that a different number of projections (e.g., 2, 3, etc.) may be arranged, for example, to engage hermetically with the free end of the first beverage preparation device. The first capsule 2a is inserted into the second beverage preparation device as illustrated in Figure 18. The second beverage preparation device includes a second surrounding member 6b comprising a sealing element 55 to provide a second sealing interface between the first capsule 2a and the second surrounding member 6b of the second beverage preparation device if the first capsule 2a is positioned in the second surrounding member 6b and the second surrounding member 6b is closed by means of the second closing member. The sealing element 55 can be pushed against the side wall 16, thus obtaining the second sealing interface. In one example, a proper seal may not be achieved if sealing element 55 is omitted from the system. The free end of the second surrounding member 6b may not fit sufficiently tightly against the sealing member 28a of capsule 2a. The sealing element 55 can be configured on a radially inner side of the second surrounding member 6b configured to seal against the side wall 12 of the first capsule 2a if the second surrounding member 6b is closed by means of the second closing member. The sealing element 55 can have different dimensions and shapes. In one example, the sealing element is an O-ring, for example, made of an elastic material (e.g., a rubber seal). Figure 19 shows a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a system with a first capsule 2a and a second surrounding member 6b of a second beverage preparation device. The second surrounding member 6b has a sealing element 55. The sealing element 55 can be elastic (e.g., made of rubber), providing sealing contact on the outwardly extending flange and / or side wall of the first capsule 2a if the second surrounding member 6b is closed by means of the second closing member. Figure 20 shows a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a system with a first capsule 2a and a second surrounding member 6b of a second beverage preparation device. The second surrounding member 6b has a radially outward-facing portion arranged to compress the sealing member 28a and a radially inward-facing portion arranged to provide sealing contact against a side wall of the first capsule 2a. In this example, the radially outward-facing compression portion is substantially flat, such as to allow enhanced thrust action against at least one projection of the sealing member 28a. Figure 21 shows a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a system with a first capsule 2a and a second surrounding member 6b of a second beverage preparation device. The second free end 30b of the second beverage preparation device is made of an elastic material (e.g., rubber), forming a sealing element 55. The sealing element 55 is arranged to provide a seal if the second surrounding member 6b is closed by means of the second closing member. The sealing element 55 is integrated with the second surrounding member 6b. Figures 22A and 22B show a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a system with a first capsule 2a and a second surrounding member 6b of a second beverage preparation device. In Figure 22A, the second surrounding member 6b includes a sealing element 55 in the form of a tab extending radially inward toward the first capsule 2a. The tab may be elastic. The tab is arranged to provide a seal if the second surrounding member 6b is closed by means of the second closing member. The tab-shaped element can be sealed against the sealing member 28b. It will be appreciated that the tab-shaped sealing element 55 can have various lengths. For example, the tongue-shaped sealing element 55 can have a longer length so as to seal against the side wall 12 if the second surrounding member 6b is closed.In Figure 22A, similar to the system shown in Figure 22A, the second surrounding member 6b includes a sealing element 55 in the form of a tab extending radially inward toward the first capsule 2a. The tab is arranged to provide sealing contact with the side wall of the first capsule 2a if the second surrounding member 6b is closed by means of the second closing member. Figures 23A and 23B show a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a system comprising a first capsule 2a and a second surrounding member 6b of a second beverage preparation device. In Figure 23A, the first capsule 2a includes a sealing member 28a with one projection, and in Figure 23B, the first capsule 2a includes a sealing member 28b with two projections. The second surrounding member 6b includes a sealing element 55 shaped like a tongue. The tongue-shaped sealing element 55 extends substantially into the outwardly projecting flange 20 of the first capsule 2a. Sealing can be achieved by means of the tongue if the second surrounding member 6b is closed using the second closing member. It will be appreciated that a wide variety of / zofrcn / Lznz / q / γΐΛΐ first capsules, second capsules, first beverage preparation devices, and second beverage preparation devices can be used. It will be noted that the existence of a fluid sealing contact may mean that 0-6%, preferably 0-4%, more preferably 0-2.5% of the total fluid supplied to the surrounding member to prepare the beverage may leak due to leakage between the free contact end and the sealing member of the capsule. In some examples, the sealing element and / or alternative sealing member is illustrated as an additional element attached to or connected with the capsule body. It should be noted that the sealing element and / or alternative sealing member may also be preformed within the capsule body. For example, the sealing element and / or alternative sealing member may be integral with the aluminum capsule body (e.g., an outward-extending flange, side wall, etc.). It will be appreciated that the second capsule may include one or more additional sealing interfaces when used in one or more additional beverage preparation devices, while maintaining compatibility with the first beverage preparation device and the second beverage preparation device. It will be noted that the beverage preparation device may include a plurality of surrounding members arranged to receive a plurality of capsules simultaneously. In the present description, the invention is described with reference to specific examples of embodiments of the invention. It will be evident, however, that various modifications, variations, alternatives, and changes can be made to it without departing from the essence of the invention. For the purposes of clarity and conciseness, the features are described herein as part of the same embodiment or of separate embodiments; however, alternative embodiments are also conceived that have combinations of all or some of the features described in these separate embodiments and are understood to fall within the scope of the invention as described in the claims. The descriptions, figures, and examples should therefore be considered in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense.The invention is intended to encompass all alternatives, modifications, and variations that fall within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. Furthermore, many of the described elements are functional entities that can be implemented as discrete or distributed components, or in conjunction with other components, in any suitable combination and location. In the claims, any reference sign placed in parentheses should not be construed as limiting the claim. The expression 'comprising' does not exclude the presence of features or steps different from those listed in a claim. Furthermore, the words 'a' and 'one' should not be considered as limited to 'only one', but rather as meaning 'at least one', and do not exclude a plurality. The mere fact that some measures are mentioned in mutually different claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used for convenience. It is hereby stated that, as of this date, the best method known to the applicant for putting the aforementioned invention into practice is the one that is clear from the present description of the invention.

Claims

1. A system for preparing a potable beverage, characterized in that it comprises: a first capsule and a second alternative capsule, each containing a substance for preparing a potable beverage by extracting and / or dissolving the substance by means of a fluid supplied under pressure in the capsule, wherein the first capsule and the second alternative capsule each comprise an aluminum capsule body having a central capsule body axis, the aluminum capsule body being provided with a bottom portion, a side wall and an outwardly extending flange, and further comprising an aluminum cover coupled to the outwardly extending flange, the cover hermetically sealing the capsule; a first beverage preparation device including a first surrounding member for receiving the first capsule or the second alternative capsule,wherein the first surrounding member comprises first fluid injection means for supplying pressurized fluid into the capsule received in the first surrounding member, wherein the first beverage preparation device comprises a first closing member for closing the first surrounding member, wherein the first surrounding member includes a first annular element having a first annular element center axis and a first free contact end, the first free contact end of the first annular element being optionally provided with a plurality of first radially extending open grooves, a second beverage preparation device including a second surrounding member for receiving the first capsule or the alternative second capsule, wherein the second surrounding member comprises second fluid injection means for supplying pressurized fluid into the capsule received in the second surrounding member,wherein the second beverage preparation device comprises a second closing member for closing the second surrounding member, wherein the second surrounding member includes a second annular element having a second annular element center axis and a second free contact end, the second free contact end of the second annular element being optionally provided with a plurality of second radially extending open grooves, wherein the first capsule and the alternative second capsule each include a flange sealing member extending outwardly to provide fluid sealing contact with the first surrounding member if the capsule is located in the first surrounding member and the first surrounding member is closed by means of the first closing member,such that the outward-extending flange of the first capsule or alternative second capsule and at least a portion of the sealing member of the first capsule or alternative second capsule are hermetically coupled between the first surrounding member and the first closing member, wherein the sealing member of the first capsule and the alternative second capsule is integral with the outward-extending flange and comprises at least one projection extending from the outward-extending flange, the at least one projection comprising a projection upper portion, and wherein the at least one projection is configured such that its projection upper portion exerts a radial force on the first free contact end of the first annular element if the capsule is located in the first surrounding member and the first surrounding member is closed by means of the first closing member of the first beverage preparation device,where there is no sealing interface between the first capsule and the second surrounding member to provide fluid sealing contact if the first capsule is located in the second surrounding member and the second surrounding member is closed by means of the second closing member, / ZQfrCn / ίZΖΠZ / ^ / YΙΛΙ where there is a sealing interface between the second alternative capsule and the second surrounding member to provide fluid sealing contact if the second alternative capsule is located in the second surrounding member and the second surrounding member is closed by means of the second closing member., 2. System according to claim 1, characterized in that the second alternative capsule includes at least two sealing portions, wherein a first sealing portion is arranged to provide a first sealing interface if the second alternative capsule is located in the first surrounding member of the first beverage preparation device and the first surrounding member is closed by means of the first closing member, wherein a second sealing portion is arranged to provide a second sealing interface if the second alternative capsule is located in the second surrounding member and the second surrounding member is closed by means of the second closing member, the first sealing interface being different from the second sealing interface.

3. System according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the first capsule has the same sealing interface as the second alternative capsule if the first capsule is located in the first surrounding member of the first beverage preparation device, wherein the sealing interface of the first capsule corresponds to the first sealing interface of the second alternative capsule.

4. System in accordance with any of claims 1, 2 or 3, characterized in that the second alternative capsule further includes an alternative sealing member to provide the second sealing interface between the second alternative capsule and the second surrounding member of the second beverage preparation device if the second alternative capsule is located in the second surrounding member and the second surrounding member is closed by means of the second closing member.

5. System in accordance with claim 4, characterized in that the alternative sealing member is located on the flange extending outwards from the second alternative capsule.

6. System in accordance with claim 4 or 5, characterized in that the alternative sealing member is located on the side wall of the second alternative capsule.

7. System in accordance with claim 4, 5 or 6, characterized in that the alternative sealing member is located at the bottom of the second alternative capsule.

8. A system in accordance with any of claims 4-7, characterized in that the alternative sealing member is located on at least one projection of the second alternative capsule. / zofrcn / Lznz / q / YiAi 9. System in conformity with any of claims 4-8, characterized in that the alternative sealing member is configured to be pressed against and in contact with the second surrounding member.

10. System in conformity with any of claims 4-9, characterized in that the alternative sealing member is elastically deformable.

11. System in conformity with any of claims 4-10, characterized in that the alternative sealing member is a flexible sealing member, such as a rubber elastic.

12. System in conformity with any of claims 4-11, characterized in that the alternative sealing member forms a self-reinforcing sealing configuration when pressure is applied.

13. System in conformity with any of claims 4-12, characterized in that the alternative sealing member is made of a sponge, such as an aluminum sponge.

14. System in accordance with any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the second surrounding member includes a sealing element to provide the second sealing interface between the second alternative capsule and the second surrounding member of the second beverage preparation device if the second alternative capsule is located in the second surrounding member and the second surrounding member is closed by means of the second closing member.

15. System according to claim 14, characterized in that the sealing element is configured to seal against the flange, side wall and / or lower part of the second alternative capsule if the capsule is located in the second surrounding member and the second surrounding member is closed by means of the second closing member.

16. System in accordance with claim 14 or 15, characterized in that the sealing element is located in the second annular element of the second surrounding member.

17. System in conformity with any of claims 14-16, characterized in that the sealing element is configured to be pressed against and in contact with the second alternative capsule.

18. System in conformity with any of claims 14-17, characterized in that the sealing element is elastically deformable.

19. System in conformity with any of claims 14-18, characterized in that the sealing member forms a self-reinforcing sealing configuration when pressure is applied.

20. System in conformity with any of claims 14-19, characterized in that the sealing member of / zofrcn / Lznz / q / YiAi 80 is made of a sponge, such as an aluminum sponge.

21. System in conformity with any of claims 14-20, characterized in that the sealing element includes a flexible sealing element, such as a rubber elastic.

22. System in accordance with any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sealing member comprises an additional projection extending outward from the flange and a plateau between the two projections, wherein the distance between the two projections is such that the first free contact end of the first annular element is enclosed between the two projections if the first capsule or the second alternative capsule is located in the first surrounding member and the first surrounding member is closed by means of the first closing member.

23. System according to claim 22, characterized in that a first of the two projections of the sealing member projects further from an outwardly extending base portion of the flange, the base portion to which the cover is attached, than a second of the two projections of the sealing member.

24. System according to claim 23, characterized in that the plateau has a lower end that is radially closer to the top of the projection of the second projection than to the top of the projection of the first projection.

25. System in accordance with any of the preceding claims 22-24, characterized in that a first of the two projections has a first conical inclined lateral surface on a side oriented towards a second of the two projections and the second of the two projections has a second conical inclined lateral surface on a side oriented towards the first of the two projections, the first lateral surface having a larger size from its upper end to its lower end than the second lateral surface.

26. A system in accordance with any of the preceding claims 22-25, characterized in that a first of the two projections has a first conical inclined lateral surface on a side oriented towards a second of the two projections, and the second of the two projections has a second inclined lateral surface on a side oriented towards the first of the two projections, the first lateral surface having a conical generatrix at a first enclosed angle with respect to the cover, the second lateral surface having a conical generatrix at a second enclosed angle with respect to the cover, the first angle being smaller than the second angle. / ZQfrCn / ίZΖΠZ / ^ / YΙΛΙ 27. System in accordance with claim 26, characterized in that the first angle is between 40° and 60°, preferably greater than 45° and preferably less than 55°.

28. System in accordance with claim 26 or 27, characterized in that the second angle is between 60° and 85°, preferably greater than 70° and preferably less than 80°.

29. System in accordance with any of the preceding claims 22-28, characterized in that a first of the two projections has a maximum upper end extending around the axis of the capsule with a diameter of 31.8 to 32.0 mm and preferably 31.9 mm and wherein a second of the two projections has a maximum upper end extending around the axis of the capsule with a diameter of 29.7 to 30.0 mm and preferably 29.8 mm.

30. System in conformity with any of the preceding claims 22-29, characterized in that the first of the two projections is an external one of the two projections.

31. System in accordance with any of the preceding claims 22-30, characterized in that the plateau is axially separated from the deck.

32. System in accordance with any of the preceding claims 22-31, characterized in that the distance between the two projections is such that the first free contact end of the first annular element comes into contact with the two projections if the first capsule or the alternative second capsule is located in the first surrounding member and the first surrounding member is closed by means of the first closing member.

33. System in accordance with any of the preceding claims 22-32, characterized in that the two separate projections and the plateau are arranged in such a way that the first free contact end of the first annular element comes into contact with the plateau if the first capsule or the alternative second capsule is located in the first surrounding member and the first surrounding member is closed by means of the first closing member.

34. System in accordance with any of the preceding claims 22-33, characterized in that the first capsule and the alternative second capsule each comprise a bearing for the first surrounding member if the capsule is located in the first surrounding member and the first surrounding member is closed by means of the first closing member, the bearing encloses at least a portion of the first free contact end of the first annular element and the bearing is formed by the two projections and the plateau between them.

35. System in accordance with any of the preceding claims 22-34, characterized in that the / zofrcn / Lznz / q / γΐΛΐ plateau is substantially flat.

36. System in accordance with any of claims 22-35, characterized in that the plateau comprises a curved portion.

37. System in accordance with any of the preceding claims 22-36, characterized in that the plateau is V-shaped.

38. System in accordance with any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one projection comprises a projection side wall that is inclined with respect to the flange that extends outward from the body of the aluminum capsule, the projection side wall being configured so that it is easily deformed if the capsule is placed in the surrounding member of the beverage preparation device and the surrounding member is closed by means of the closing member of the beverage preparation device.

39. System in accordance with any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the distance between the projection and the side wall of the aluminum capsule body is such that the first free contact end of the first annular element comes into contact with the projection and the side wall of the aluminum capsule body if the first capsule or the second alternative capsule is located in the first surrounding member of the first beverage preparation device and the first surrounding member is closed by means of the first closing member of the first beverage preparation device.

40. System in accordance with any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sealing member, in addition to at least one projection extending outward from the flange, comprises a plateau between the top of the projection and the side wall of the aluminum capsule body.

41. System according to claim 40, characterized in that a bearing is formed by the projection, the plateau and the side wall of the aluminum capsule body, wherein the distance between the projection and the side wall is such that the first free contact end of the first annular element is enclosed by the projection and the side wall of the aluminum capsule body if the first capsule or the second alternative capsule is located in the first surrounding member of the first beverage preparation device and the first surrounding member is closed by means of the first closing member of the first beverage preparation device.

42. System according to claim 40 or 41, characterized in that the projection, the side wall of the aluminum capsule body and the plateau are arranged in such a way that the first free contact end of the first annular element comes into contact with the plateau if the first capsule or the second alternative capsule is located in the first surrounding member of the first beverage preparation device and the first surrounding member is closed by means of a first closing member of the first beverage preparation device.

43. System in accordance with any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sealing member is deformable in such a way that the fluid of the sealing member makes hermetically contact with the fluid at least a portion of the first free contact end of the first annular element if, during use, the maximum fluid pressure in the first surrounding member of the first beverage preparation device is in the range of 6-20 bar, preferably between 12 and 18 bar.

44. System in accordance with any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sealing member is deformable such that the fluid of the sealing member makes hermetically seal contact with the fluid at least a portion of the first free contact end of the first annular element if, during percolation, the first free contact end of the first annular element exerts a force F2 on the sealing member of the first capsule or of the alternative second capsule, wherein F2 is in the range of 500-1500 N, preferably in the range of 750-1250 N when the fluid pressure P2 in the first surrounding member outside the capsule is in the range of 6-20 bar, preferably between 12 and 18 bar.

45. A system in accordance with any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sealing member is deformable such that the fluid in the sealing member makes hermetically sealed contact with the fluid at least a portion of the first free contact end of the first annular element if, during use, before or at the beginning of percolation, the first free contact end of the first annular element exerts a force F1 on the sealing member of the first capsule or of the alternative second capsule, wherein the force F1 is in the range of 30-150 N, preferably 40-150 N and more preferably 50-100 N, when the fluid pressure Pl in the first closing member of the first beverage preparation device outside the capsule is in the range of 0.1-4 bar, preferably 0.1-1 bar.

46. ​​System of any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sealing member is deformable such that the fluid of the sealing member makes hermetically seal contact with at least a portion of the first free contact end of the first annular element if the first free contact end of the first annular element that is pressed against the sealing member has a plurality of open grooves extending radially and evenly spaced relative to each other circumferentially from the first free contact end of the first annular element.

47. A system for preparing a potable beverage, characterized in that it comprises: a multi-seal capsule containing a substance for preparing a potable beverage by extracting and / or dissolving the substance by means of a fluid supplied under pressure in the multi-seal capsule, wherein the multi-seal capsule comprises an aluminum capsule body having a central capsule body axis, the aluminum capsule body being provided with a bottom portion, a side wall, and an outwardly extending flange, and further comprising an aluminum cover coupled to the outwardly extending flange, the cover hermetically sealing the multi-seal capsule, a first beverage preparation device including a first surrounding member for receiving the multi-seal capsule,wherein the first surrounding member comprises first fluid injection means for supplying pressurized fluid into the multi-seal capsule received in the first surrounding member, wherein the first beverage preparation device comprises a first closing member for closing the first surrounding member, wherein the first surrounding member includes a first annular element having a first annular element center axis and a first free contact end, the first free contact end of the first annular element being optionally provided with a plurality of first radially extending open grooves, a second beverage preparation device including a second surrounding member for receiving the multi-seal capsule,wherein the second surrounding member comprises second fluid injection means for supplying pressurized fluid into the multi-seal capsule received in the second surrounding member, wherein the second beverage preparation device comprises a second closing member for closing the second surrounding member, wherein the second surrounding member includes a second annular element having a second annular element center axis and a second free contact end, the second free contact end of the second annular element being optionally provided with a plurality of second radially extending open grooves,wherein the multi-seal capsule includes a sealing member in the outward-extending flange to provide fluid sealing contact with the first surrounding member if the capsule is located in the first surrounding member and the first surrounding member is closed by means of the first closing member, such that the outward-extending flange of the multi-seal capsule and at least a portion of the sealing member of the multi-seal capsule are hermetically coupled between the first surrounding member and the first closing member, wherein the sealing member of the multi-seal capsule is integral with the outward-extending flange and comprises at least one projection extending from the outward-extending flange, the at least one projection comprising a projection upper portion,and wherein at least one projection is configured such that its upper projection exerts a radial force on the first free contact end of the first annular element if the capsule is located on the first surrounding member and the first surrounding member is closed by means of the first closing member of the first beverage preparation device, wherein there is a first sealing interface between the multi-seal capsule and the first surrounding member to provide fluid sealing contact if the multi-seal capsule is located on the first surrounding member and the first surrounding member is closed by means of the first closing member, wherein there is a second sealing interface, different from the first sealing interface,between the multi-seal capsule and the surrounding second member to provide fluid sealing contact if the multi-seal capsule is located in the surrounding second member and the surrounding second member is closed by means of the closing second member.

48. A multi-seal capsule containing a substance for preparing a potable beverage by extracting and / or dissolving the substance using a fluid supplied under pressure in the multi-seal capsule, characterized in that it comprises an aluminum capsule body having a central capsule body axis, the aluminum capsule body being provided with a bottom portion, a side wall, and an outwardly extending flange, and further comprising an aluminum cover coupled to the outwardly extending flange, the cover hermetically sealing the multi-seal capsule, wherein the multi-seal capsule is arranged to be received in: a first beverage preparation device including a first surrounding member for receiving the multi-seal capsule,wherein the first surrounding member comprises first fluid injection means for supplying pressurized fluid into the multi-seal capsule received in the first surrounding member, wherein the first beverage preparation device comprises a first closing member for closing the first surrounding member, wherein the first surrounding member includes a first annular element having a first annular element center axis and a first free contact end, the first free contact end of the first annular element being optionally provided with a plurality of first radially extending open grooves, and a second beverage preparation device including a second surrounding member for receiving the multi-seal capsule,wherein the second surrounding member comprises second fluid injection means for supplying pressurized fluid into the multi-seal capsule received in the second surrounding member, wherein the second beverage preparation device comprises a second closing member for closing the second surrounding member, wherein the second surrounding member includes a second annular element having a second annular element center axis and a second free contact end, the second free contact end of the second annular element being optionally provided with a plurality of second radially extending open grooves,wherein the multi-seal capsule includes a sealing member in the outward-extending flange to provide fluid sealing contact with the first surrounding member if the capsule is located in the first surrounding member and the first surrounding member is closed by means of the first closing member, such that the outward-extending flange of the multi-seal capsule and at least a portion of the sealing member of the multi-seal capsule are hermetically coupled between the first surrounding member and the first closing member, wherein the sealing member of the multi-seal capsule is integral with the outward-extending flange and comprises at least one projection extending from the outward-extending flange, the at least one projection comprising a projection upper portion,and wherein at least one projection is configured such that its upper projection exerts a radial force on the first free contact end of the first annular element if the capsule is located on the first surrounding member and the first surrounding member is closed by means of the first closing member of the first beverage preparation device, wherein there is a first sealing interface between the multi-seal capsule and the first surrounding member to provide fluid sealing contact if the multi-seal capsule is located on the first surrounding member and the first surrounding member is closed by means of the first closing member, wherein there is a second sealing interface, different from the first sealing interface,between the multi-seal capsule and the surrounding second member to provide fluid sealing contact if the multi-seal capsule is located in the surrounding second member and the surrounding second member is closed by means of the closing second member.

49. Second alternative capsule of the system in accordance with any of claims 1-46.

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