System and method of preparing beverage and / or foodstuff or precursor thereof and container used therein

Abstract

A container for use with a machine for preparing a beverage and / or food or a precursor thereof, the container comprising: a storage portion for containing a precursor material; and a closing member for closing the storage portion, at least a portion of the storage portion being formed of a wood pulp-based material, wherein the wood pulp-based material includes a perforated region treated to facilitate relatively easier perforation by a perforator of the machine than an untreated portion.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to an electrically operated beverage or food preparation system, wherein the beverage or food is prepared from pre-quantified capsules. Prior Technology

[0002] A system for preparing beverages includes a beverage preparation machine and capsules. The capsules contain a single serving of beverage, such as ground coffee or tea, of precursor material. The beverage preparation machine is configured to perform a beverage preparation process on the capsules, typically by exposing pressurized, heated water to the precursor material. As part of this preparation process, the capsules are guided through the machine by a series of complex interactions involving various mechanisms of the machine and, primarily, the flange of the capsule, to load, process, and eject the capsules. In this manner, the capsules are processed so that at least a portion of the precursor material from the capsules is extracted as a beverage.

[0003] Compared to conventional beverage preparation machines (e.g., compared to manually operated moka pots / top-mount espresso machines), this configuration of beverage preparation machines is becoming increasingly popular due to its enhanced user convenience.

[0004] Due to the complex movement of the capsules through the machine and exposure to pressurized, heated water, only aluminum-based capsules have been achieved with high reliability. In fact, other materials have been found to easily adhere to the machine or cause other material-related errors. The desired outcome is to achieve capsules with fewer material limitations.

[0005] Therefore, despite the efforts already made in the development of this capsule, further improvements are still desired. Summary of the Invention

[0006] This disclosure provides a container for use with a machine for preparing a beverage and / or food or a precursor thereof, the container comprising: a storage portion having a cavity having a base for receiving a precursor material; and a closing member for closing the storage portion.

[0007] In one embodiment, at least a portion of the storage section is formed of a wood pulp-based material, wherein the wood pulp-based material includes a perforated region that is treated to facilitate relatively easier perforation by a perforator of one of the machines than an untreated portion.

[0008] By processing a wood pulp-based container to make it easier to perforate, the reliability of such containers when used in the machine can be improved. For example, the deformation (rather than perforation) of a wood pulp-based capsule that has absorbed water in the perforation area by the penetrator can be minimized, or the large amount of energy required due to delamination / detachment of the wood pulp fibers can be minimized.

[0009] As used herein, the term "perforation region" may refer to a region directly adjacent to the penetrator, such as a wet area or area overlapping a segment on the longitudinal and transverse planes of the penetrator prior to penetration.

[0010] As used herein, the term "comparatively easier" in relation to the perforation of a penetrator may refer to one or more of the following: perforation of a perforated region containing a brittle failure mode with relatively low energy absorption, rather than a ductile failure mode with relatively high energy absorption of an untreated region; less displacement of the penetrator to achieve complete penetration (e.g., due to a reduction in the thickness of one of the perforated regions and / or less movement of the perforated region relative to the penetrator); and penetration with a lower maximum force.

[0011] In an embodiment, the perforated region, compared to the untreated portion, includes one or more of the following material properties: reduced water absorption; increased brittleness (e.g., characterized by a more brittle fracture with low energy absorption); increased stiffness; and reduced thickness.

[0012] As used herein, the term "water absorption" can refer to the amount of water (in grams) absorbed per unit area (in m²) of a wood pulp-based material over a given time period (e.g., 60 or 180 seconds). Examples of suitable tests include the Cobb 60 or Cobb 180 tests. By achieving a perforated area with reduced water absorption, this perforated area can be more easily penetrated than if it were submerged in water, because a submerged portion can expand, thus requiring more displacement to fully penetrate, and is more likely to displace along with the penetrator rather than penetrate.

[0013] In an embodiment, the perforated area is processed by one or more of the following procedures: pressing; heat treatment; applying a coating; and scoring.

[0014] As used herein, the term "heat treatment" can refer to the application / extraction of heat energy as part of the treatment process. Generally, heat treatment involves increasing the temperature of one of the wood pulp-based materials. In embodiments, this temperature may be 100 to 300 or 100 to 400 degrees Celsius.

[0015] As used herein, the term "pressing" can refer to applying a compressive force in the through-thickness direction of the wood pulp-based material to reduce its thickness. In embodiments, the pressure can be 1 x 10⁵ to 1 x 10⁷ Pa or 1 x 10⁴ to 1 x 10⁸ Pa.

[0016] In an embodiment, the heat treatment and / or pressing may be applied for 2 to 10 seconds.

[0017] As used herein, the term "applying a coating" can refer to applying a coating to the wood pulp-based material to close the pores / voids between the fibers and / or act as a barrier. This can provide reduced water absorption, which may be advantageous for the reasons previously given. It can also provide for more brittle failure, which may be advantageous for the reasons previously given. The coating may contain caramel or starch or other suitable coatings.

[0018] In an embodiment, the perforated area has a thickness reduction of at least 20%, 30%, or 35% compared to the untreated portion. For example, a 0.5 mm thick material can have a thickness reduced to 0.3 mm. In an embodiment, a maximum thickness reduction can be 60% to 70%.

[0019] In one embodiment, the perforated area is disposed at the base of one cavity of the storage portion.

[0020] In one embodiment, the perforated area is configured as an annular ring centered on one of the rotation axes of the container. The annular ring can be readily formed by a molding die. Furthermore, it can be ensured that one of the discrete perforating elements, comprising elements arranged about the rotation axis of the container, has an element that is always aligned with a portion of the annular ring.

[0021] In one embodiment, the annular ring is configured as segments, which are demarcated by untreated bridging members. By implementing bridging members to demarcate these segments, the overall strength of the base can be maintained because the forces between the internal components of the annular ring can be transmitted primarily through these bridging members, rather than entirely through these brittle segments.

[0022] In an embodiment, the bridging elements are configured to have a different angular distance than one of the penetrating elements forming the machine. By making this angular distance different, even if one penetrating element is aligned with a bridging element, other penetrating elements will not, thus ensuring that at least one penetrating element completely penetrates a segment of the perforated region rather than a bridging element.

[0023] In an embodiment, the perforated region is configured to be perforated by a penetrator element having a total area of ​​6 to 15 mm² when subjected to at least 2 to 10 Newtons or 0.5 to 50 Newtons.

[0024] In one embodiment, at least the base and / or all of the sidewalls of the storage portion are formed of a wood pulp-based material. In another embodiment, the wood pulp-based material has a thickness of 0.25 mm to 0.75 mm (e.g., for an untreated area).

[0025] In one embodiment, at least a portion of the container is formed of a wood pulp-based material, wherein the wood pulp-based material includes a processing region. In one embodiment, the processing region is treated to vitrify the wood pulp-based material (e.g., by applying pressure and heat, as disclosed herein). In one embodiment, the processing region is located on a lower surface of a flange portion of the container. The processing region can achieve a flange that is narrower than that used for an untreated wood pulp-based material, having a thickness equivalent to a flange formed of a conventional material (e.g., aluminum) for a conventional container. This allows the container to be compatible with machines designed for conventional containers. The processing region can also provide a more consistent (e.g., smoother, with reduced discontinuities) surface for receiving encoding.

[0026] In one embodiment, at least one base region of the storage portion is formed of a wood pulp-based material, wherein the storage portion includes a stiffening portion configured to stiffen the storage portion (e.g., the base, or more specifically, a perforated area of ​​the base) to resist displacement of the base when it is perforated by a penetrator of the machine (e.g., compared to an equivalent container without such stiffening portions).

[0027] By implementing a reinforced portion for the base to be combined with a wood pulp-based material, it can be ensured that when the container is executed to form one or more fluid inlets for injecting conditioning fluid to form a beverage, the wood pulp-based base is cleanly perforated by the machine.

[0028] As used herein, the term "displacement" can refer to a depth of the base (or other components of the displacement) as the penetrator moves through it in the depth direction. It should be understood that the base needs to resist displacement so that it does not shift or is minimized by the penetrator's local displacement, thus remaining relatively undeformed as the penetrator moves through it. It should also be understood that a perforated region needs to fracture / crack, not shift.

[0029] As used herein, the term "base" may refer to a portion of the container that forms the lowest surface of the cavity and its closed sidewalls. The base may have a transverse and longitudinal component (or a radial component) that is greater than a depth component.

[0030] As used herein, the term "sidewall" may refer to a portion of the container disposed between the base and the flange portion. The sidewall may have a main component in the depth direction.

[0031] As used herein, the term "base region" may refer to a portion of the container, including the base and a proximal portion of the sidewall that joins the base. "Proximal" and "farthest" are defined herein relative to the base. Thus, a proximal portion refers to a portion of the sidewall immediately adjacent to the base. These stiffening portions may be located on portions of the sidewall that significantly affect the rigidity of the base. The base region may include a portion of the sidewall having a distance d (measured in the depth direction from the lowest point of the base) less than 50% or 40% of the total depth D (measured from the lowest point of the base to the top of one of the flange portions).

[0032] As used herein, the term "stiffener portion" can refer to a portion of the wood pulp-based material that is geometrically adapted from a regular shape of the container to provide increased stiffness to the base. This stiffness of the base can be determined based on one or more of the following: a stiffness of the base region itself (e.g., a Young's modulus), including the stiffness of the base and / or the sidewalls; a structural constraint at a junction of the base and the sidewalls that provides more rigid support to the base. The stiffener portion can be formed of the same wood pulp-based material as the remainder of the base region, including in terms of composition and thickness.

[0033] As used herein, the term "resist displacement" can refer to a base that is inherently stiff, resulting in less displacement (e.g., deflection) when subjected to an impact from a penetrating device. It can also refer to sidewalls that are less likely to bend (or otherwise displace), and thus the base resists displacement based on the reduced bending of these sidewalls.

[0034] In one embodiment, the stiffening portions are configured to extend over both the base and the proximal region of the sidewall. By configuring the stiffening portions to extend continuously over the base and the sidewall, they can provide enhanced stiffness.

[0035] In an embodiment, the stiffening portions protrude into the interior of the storage portion and may not protrude outwards from the outside. By implementing the stiffening portions such that their geometry is entirely formed within the container (e.g., the stiffening portions do not extend beyond the outline of the container (compared to an equivalent portion of the container without the stiffening portions)), existing machines are compatible with novel and inventive capsule configurations.

[0036] In one embodiment, the stiffening portions are configured as channels that bridge the proximal regions of the base and the sidewall. By configuring these channels to interconnect portions of the sidewall and the base (which are not interconnected compared to an equivalent portion of the container excluding the stiffening portions), the rigidity can be improved.

[0037] In this embodiment, the base of the channel is linear. A linear base provides improved bending / displacement resistance. The channel may have a V-shaped, U-shaped, or other suitable cross-section.

[0038] In this embodiment, the channels are radially aligned. By achieving radial alignment of the channels, the base of the channels extends, wherein the combined lateral and longitudinal components are aligned with the radial direction, providing improved bending / displacement resistance.

[0039] In an embodiment, the stiffening portions have a maximum channel depth X of less than 10 mm and greater than 2 mm, or less than 8 mm and greater than 4 mm. The channel depth X can be defined as a vertical distance from one base of the channel to a virtual line that does not contain a segment of the stiffening portion. Within this range, the channel can provide enhanced stiffness.

[0040] In an embodiment, the stiffening portions are configured to extend a distance Y along the sidewall in a depth direction, from the interface with the base (e.g., at a virtual location of the interface when measured for an equivalent portion of the container without a stiffening portion) to a depth of less than 40% or 30% of the total depth D between the storage portion and the base. The distance Y may be at least 5% or 10%. Within this range, the stiffening portions can provide enhanced stiffness.

[0041] In an embodiment, the stiffening portions are configured to extend along the base from one periphery of the base to a radius Z greater than 30% or 40% of the total radius R of the base. Within this range, the stiffening portions can provide enhanced stiffness.

[0042] In one embodiment, the stiffening portions are configured to extend along the base from a periphery to approach a perforation area of ​​a perforator perforation in the machine. By configuring the stiffening portions at a height close to the perforation area, they can provide high structural support to a portion of the base of the perforation.

[0043] As used herein, the term "contiguous" may refer to complete engagement or close proximity (e.g., within 4, 2, or 1 mm). As used herein, the term "perforation region" may refer to the area directly adjacent to the penetrator, such as the wet area / overlapping area of ​​a segment on the longitudinal and transverse planes of the penetrator prior to penetration.

[0044] In an embodiment, the stiffening portions are configured to prevent one of the perforated areas of the base from displacing (e.g., the average displacement of the entire perforated area) in the depth direction greater than 0.5 to 2 mm when the perforated area is subjected to a compressive force of 1 to 50 N or 2 to 10 N applied by the penetrator in the depth direction.

[0045] In one embodiment, the stiffening portions comprise discrete units (e.g., those separated from each other) arranged circumferentially around one of the containers. Wavy ribs of equally spaced stiffening portions can provide increased stiffness.

[0046] In an embodiment, the stiffening portions are disposed only on the base or the sidewall.

[0047] In one embodiment, the storage portion includes the cavity having sidewalls and a flange portion for interconnecting the storage portion and the closure member, wherein the sidewalls include a shoulder adjacent to the flange portion, the shoulder extending outward (e.g., away from the interior of the cavity) to define a gap defining region of the sidewall disposed between the shoulder and the base, the shoulder being configured to engage a container holding portion of a processing unit of the machine, wherein the gap defining region is disposed at the distal end of the container holding portion to form a gap therebetween.

[0048] By implementing a shoulder at the top of one of the storage sections, which engages with the container holding section, a gap is precisely positioned between the sidewall and the container holding section, defining a gap between the sidewall and the container holding section. This gap helps reduce the container from sticking to the container holding section during container manufacturing, especially when the container is made of a wood pulp-based material and is more susceptible to displacement.

[0049] As used herein, the term "shoulder" may refer to a portion of the sidewall that extends outward from the rest of the sidewall in the longitudinal and / or transverse directions (e.g., radially) as a step, chamfer, or other feature.

[0050] As used herein, the term "proximal" in relation to the position of the shoulder and the flange portion may mean that the shoulder is configured to directly engage the flange portion, or is adjacent to, for example, within 1 or 2 mm in the depth direction.

[0051] As used herein, the term "void region" may refer to a region of the sidewall configured to be separated (i.e., moved away from) the container holding portion.

[0052] In one embodiment, the shoulder extends from the flange portion to the outer edge of the sidewall (e.g., a step, chamfer, bend, or other shape discontinuity in the outer surface profile). The entire shoulder (e.g., in terms of depth and / or circumference) between the flange portion and the outer edge of the sidewall engages the container perforation portion. This configuration provides high stability despite the presence of the gap.

[0053] In one embodiment, the shoulder has a depth distance S between the flange portion and the outer edge of one of the sidewalls that is less than 40%, 30%, 25%, or 20% of the total depth D of the storage portion, which can be measured from the lowest position of the base to the top of one of the flange portions. In another embodiment, the shoulder has a depth distance S between the flange portion and the outer edge that is greater than 5%, 10%, or 15% of the total depth D of the storage portion. By making the shoulder within this depth range, sufficient stability can be provided despite the presence of the gap.

[0054] In an embodiment, the gap-defining region of the sidewall extends from the shoulder (e.g., including the entire shoulder) to the base of the container in the depth and / or circumferential direction. By making the container such that no part of the sidewall other than the shoulder contacts the container holding portion, it is ensured that the container is less likely to stick to the container holding portion.

[0055] In one embodiment, the gap defining region of the sidewall is configured to have a separation distance N in the radial direction from the container holding portion of at least 0.5 mm and / or less than 5 mm. By ensuring that the gap defining region is separated from the sidewall by at least this amount, the container is less likely to stick to the container holding portion.

[0056] In this embodiment, the average separation distance N between the gap defining region of the sidewall and the container holding portion is at least 0.5 mm or 1 mm. By ensuring that the gap defining region and one of the sidewalls are separated by this average amount, the container is less likely to stick to the container holding portion.

[0057] In one embodiment, the container is configured to stack within a second corresponding (e.g., in shape) container, whereby an outer edge of the shoulder of the container engages the flange portion of the second container, and at least a portion of the gap-defined area of ​​the sidewall of the container is distanced from the interior of a cavity in the second container. With this configuration, adhesion to the stacked containers can be reduced prior to filling.

[0058] In the embodiments, the stiffening portions of any of the foregoing embodiments or another embodiment disclosed herein are implemented in combination with the shoulder to stiffen the gap-defining region of the sidewall. By implementing these stiffening portions to stiffen the gap-defining region of the sidewall, the reduced stability of the sidewall due to not contacting the container perforation portion can be compensated, and thus stabilized by these portions.

[0059] In one embodiment, the stiffening portions protrude into the interior of the storage portion and do not protrude outwards from the outside. By allowing the stiffening portions to protrude into the interior of the cavity of the storage portion, the void region can be maintained around the stiffening portions to reduce adhesion. In another embodiment, the stiffening portions are configured as channels that bridge the void defining region of the base and the sidewall. By configuring the stiffening portions to interconnect the void defining region of the sidewall and the base, the stability of the void defining region can be increased.

[0060] This disclosure provides a system comprising a container of any of the foregoing embodiments or another embodiment disclosed herein and a machine for preparing a beverage and / or food or a precursor thereof. In an embodiment, the machine includes: a processing unit for processing the precursor material of the container; and an electrical circuit system for controlling the processing unit.

[0061] This disclosure provides a use of the container in any of the foregoing embodiments or another embodiment disclosed herein for the machine discussed herein.

[0062] This disclosure provides a method for preparing a beverage and / or food or a precursor thereof. The method can be implemented using any of the foregoing embodiments disclosed herein or another embodiment. The method comprises: perforating a perforated region with a perforator of the machine, the perforated region being treated to facilitate relatively easier perforation by the perforator of the machine than an untreated portion; and processing the precursor material.

[0063] In an embodiment, processing the precursor material includes one or more of the following procedures: injecting conditioning fluid into the container via an inlet at a perforated area in a base of the container formed by the machine; increasing the pressure of the fluid in the container until the container partially ruptures to provide the beverage; and discharging a consumable container from the container processing unit.

[0064] This disclosure provides a method for forming a container for use with a machine for preparing a beverage and / or food or a precursor thereof. The method can be implemented using any of the foregoing embodiments disclosed herein or another embodiment. The method includes processing a perforated region of the container, formed from a wood pulp-based material, to facilitate relatively easier perforation by a perforator of the machine than an untreated portion. In an embodiment, the method includes forming a storage portion of the container, and subsequently processing the storage portion to achieve the perforated region.

[0065] This disclosure provides a method for preparing a beverage and / or food or a precursor thereof. The method can be implemented using any of the foregoing embodiments disclosed herein or another embodiment. The method includes: penetrating a wood pulp-based portion of a container with a penetrator to provide a fluid inlet, and during the penetration, using a stiffening portion to resist displacement of the wood pulp-based portion; and processing the precursor material.

[0066] In an embodiment, processing the precursor material includes one or more of the following procedures: injecting conditioning fluid into the container via an inlet at a perforated area in a base of the container formed by the machine; increasing the pressure of the fluid in the container until the container partially ruptures to provide the beverage; and discharging a consumable container from the container processing unit.

[0067] This disclosure provides a method for forming a container. The method can be implemented using any of the foregoing embodiments disclosed herein or another embodiment. The method includes: forming a storage portion of the container from a wood pulp-based material, which may include wet forming and may include hot pressing. The method may include subsequently forming a stiffening portion from the storage portion.

[0068] This disclosure provides a method for preparing a beverage and / or food or a precursor thereof. The method can be implemented using any of the foregoing embodiments disclosed herein or another embodiment. The method includes: disposing a container containing a precursor material in a container holding portion of a processing unit of a machine; engaging a shoulder of a sidewall of the container, the shoulder being contoured to maintain a gap between a base and a portion of the sidewall; and processing the precursor material.

[0069] In an embodiment, processing the precursor material includes one or more of the following procedures: injecting conditioning fluid into the container via an inlet at a perforated area in a base of the container formed by the machine; increasing the pressure of the fluid in the container until the container's flank portion ruptures to provide the beverage; and discharging a consumable container from the container processing unit. During one or all of these procedures, the gap between the base and the portion of the sidewall between the shoulder and the container holding portion can be maintained.

[0070] This disclosure provides a method for filling a container with a precursor material. The method can be implemented using any of the foregoing embodiments disclosed herein or another embodiment. The method includes: disposing the container in a container holding portion of a filling machine; engaging a shoulder of a sidewall of the container, the shoulder being profiled to maintain a gap between a base and a portion of the sidewall between the shoulder and the base; and filling the container with the precursor material. The method may include discharging a filled container from the filling machine. During one or all of these procedures, the gap between the base and the shoulder and the portion of the sidewall between the shoulder and the container holding portion can be maintained.

[0071] The preceding overview is provided for the purpose of summarizing some embodiments to provide a basic understanding of the nature of the subject matter described herein. Therefore, the above features are merely examples and should not be construed in any way as limiting the scope or spirit of the subject matter described herein. Furthermore, the above and / or subsequent embodiments may be combined in any suitable way to provide other embodiments. Other features, nature, and advantages of the subject matter described herein will become apparent from the following description of implementation methods, the brief illustrations, and the claims. Simple Explanation of the Diagram

[0072] The features, characteristics, and advantages of the embodiments disclosed herein will become apparent from the following detailed description of the embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein similar element symbols denote similar elements. [Figure 1] is a block system diagram showing an embodiment of a system used to prepare beverages or food or their precursors. [Figure 2] is a block system diagram showing an embodiment of the system in Figure 1. [Figure 3] is a schematic diagram showing the fluid conditioning system of an embodiment of the machine in Figure 2. Figures 4A and 4B are schematic diagrams showing an embodiment of the container processing system of the machine in Figure 2. [Figure 5] is a block diagram showing the control electrical circuit system of an embodiment of the machine in Figure 2. [Figure 6] is a schematic diagram showing an embodiment of the system of Figure 1. [Figure 7] is a flowchart showing the preparation procedure of an embodiment of the system execution of Figure 1. [Figure 8] is a side view showing the storage portion of an embodiment of the container in Figure 6. [Figure 9] is a top view showing the storage section of Figure 8. [Figure 10] is a side cross-sectional view of the storage portion of Figure 9 through section line AA. [Figure 11] is a bottom perspective view showing the storage section of Figure 8. [Figure 12] is a top perspective view showing the storage section of Figure 8. [Figure 13] is a side cross-sectional view of the cross section of Figure 10, which does not have the superimposed cross section of the stiffened portion shown as a virtual cross-section line. [Figure 14] is a side cross-sectional view showing the cross-section of the storage section of Figure 10 and the cross-section of the container holding section of the system in Figure 1. [Figure 15] is a side cross-sectional view showing a portion of the storage section of Figure 10 and the corresponding stack of containers. [Figure 16] is a top perspective view showing the storage section of Figure 8. Implementation

[0073] Before describing several embodiments of the system, it should be understood that the system is not limited to the details of the construction or procedural steps set forth in the following description. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art who will find the benefits of this disclosure that the system can be implemented or carried out in other embodiments and in various ways.

[0074] This disclosure will be better understood by reading the following explanation:

[0075] As used in this article, the term " [machine] "[(machine)]" can refer to an electrically operated machine that can prepare beverages and / or food from precursor materials, or; that can prepare precursor materials from pre-precursor materials, which can then be prepared into beverages and / or food. The machine can achieve this preparation by one or more of the following procedures: dilution; heating; pressurization; cooling; mixing; stirring; dissolving; soaking; macerating; extraction; conditioning; brewing; grinding; and other similar procedures. The machine can be sized for use on a worktop, for example, its length, width, and height can be less than 70 cm. As used herein, the term "beverages and / or food" is used in the context of beverages and / or food. [preparation] "[(prepare)]" can refer to at least part of the preparation of beverages and / or food (e.g., the beverage is entirely or partially prepared by the machine, and the end user can manually add additional fluids, including milk and / or water, before consumption).

[0076] As used in this article, the term " [container] "[(container)]" can refer to any configuration containing precursor material (e.g., as a single, pre-quantified portion). The container may have a maximum capacity such that it can contain only a single portion of precursor material. The container may be for single use, for example, its physical form may change after a preparation process that may include one or more of the following: perforation to supply fluid to the precursor material; perforation to supply beverage / food from the container; or user-opening to extract the precursor material. The container may be configured for operation of a container processing unit of a machine; for example, it may include flanges for aligning and guiding the container through a configuration on the unit. The container may include a rupture portion configured to rupture upon exposure to a specific pressure to deliver beverage / food. The container may have a membrane for closing the container. The container may have various forms, including one or more of the following: truncated conical; cylindrical; disc-shaped; hemispherical; and other similar forms. The container can be formed from various materials (such as metal or plastic or a combination thereof with wood pulp). Materials can be selected to ensure that the container is: food-safe; and able to withstand the pressure and / or temperature of the preparation process. The container can be defined as a capsule, wherein the capsule may have an internal volume of 20 to 100 ml. Capsules include coffee capsules, such as Nespresso® capsules (including Classic, Professional, Vertuo, Dolce Gusto, or other capsules).

[0077] As used in this article, the term " [External Device] [(external device)]” or “ [External electronic devices] [(external electronic device)]" or " [Peripheral Devices] "[(peripheral device)]" can include electronic components external to the machine, such as those located in the same location as the machine or those located away from the machine (which communicate with the machine via a computer network). The external device may include a communication interface for communicating with the machine and / or server systems. The external device may include devices such as: smartphones; PDAs; game controllers; tablets; laptops; or other similar devices.

[0078] As used in this article, the term " [Server System] "[(server system)]" can refer to electronic components external to the machine, such as those configured at a remote location on the machine, which communicate with the machine via a computer network. A server system may include a communication interface for communicating with the machine and / or external devices. Server systems may include: networked computers (e.g., remote servers); cloud-based computers; and any other server system.

[0079] As used in this article, the term " [system] [(system)]” or “ [Beverage or food preparation system] "[(beverage or foodstuff preparation system)]" can refer to any combination of two or more of the following: beverage or food preparation machine; container; server system; and peripheral device.

[0080] As used in this article, the term " [drinks] "[(beverage)]" can refer to any substance that can be processed to a state suitable for consumption, which may be iced or hot. A beverage can be one or more of the following: solid; liquid; gel; paste. Beverages may include one or a combination of the following: tea; coffee; hot chocolate; milk; cordial; vitamin components; herbal tea / infusion; infusion / flavored water; and other substances. As used herein, the term "[(beverage)]" is used in conjunction with other substances. [food] "[(foodstuff)]" can refer to any substance that can be processed into nutrients for consumption, and it can be icy or hot. Food can be one or more of the following: solid; liquid; gel; paste. Food may include: yogurt; mousse; parfait; soup; ice cream; sorbet; custard; fruit smoothie; and other substances. It should be understood that there is some overlap between the definitions of beverage and food; for example, a beverage can also be a food, and therefore the machine described for preparing beverages or food does not exclude the preparation of both.

[0081] As used in this article, the term " [Precursor Materials] "[(precursor material)]" can refer to any material that can be processed to form part or all of a beverage or food. Precursor materials can be one or more of the following: powder; crystals; liquid; gel; solid; and others. Examples of beverage-forming precursor materials include: ground coffee; milk powder; tea leaves; cocoa powder; vitamin components; herbs, for example, used to form herbal / infused teas; flavorings; and other similar substances. Examples of food-forming precursor materials include: dried vegetables or broth as anhydrous soup powder; milk powder; flour-based powders, including custard; powdered yogurt or ice cream; and other similar substances. Precursor material can also refer to any pre-precursor material that can be processed into a precursor material as defined above, i.e., any precursor material that can be subsequently processed into a beverage and / or food. In one example, the pre-precursor material includes coffee beans, which can be ground and / or heated (e.g., roasted) into a precursor material.

[0082] As used in this article, the term " [fluid] "[(fluid)]" (referring to fluids supplied by a fluid conditioning system) may include one or more of the following: water; milk; others. As used herein, the term "fluid" refers to... [Treatment] "[(conditioning)]" can refer to altering its physical properties and may include one or more of the following: heating or cooling; agitation (including foaming by stirring to introduce foam, and mixing to introduce agitation); portioning to single-serving quantities for use in single-serving containers; pressurization, such as to brewing pressure; carbonation; skimming / purification; and other conditioning processes.

[0083] As used in this article, the term " [Processing Unit] "[(processing unit)]" can refer to a facility capable of processing precursor materials into beverages or food. It can also refer to a facility capable of processing pre-precursor materials into precursor materials.

[0084] As used in this article, the term " [Container Processing Unit] "[(container processing unit)]" can refer to a configuration capable of processing containers to obtain a beverage or food from precursor materials. A container processing unit can be configured to process precursor materials by one of the following: dilution; heating; cooling; mixing; stirring; dissolving; soaking; impregnation; extraction; conditioning; pressurization; brewing; and other processing steps. Therefore, a container processing unit can be implemented as a range of units depending on the processing steps, which may include: an extraction unit (which may implement pressurization and / or heating, e.g., heating or cooling, brewing procedures); a mixing unit (which mixes a beverage or food in a container for end-user consumption); a dispensing and dissolving unit (which extracts a portion of the precursor material and processes it by dissolving, and dispenses it into a container); and other similar units.

[0085] As used in this article, the term " [Preparation Procedure] "[(preparation process)]" can refer to the preparation of beverages or food from precursor materials or the preparation of pre-precursor materials from precursor materials. The preparation process can refer to a procedure executed by an electrical circuit system to control the container processing unit to process the precursor or pre-precursor material.

[0086] As used in this article, the term " [Electrical Circuit System] [(electrical circuitry)]" or " [Circuit System] [(circuitry)]” or “ [Control electrical circuit system] "[(control electrical circuitry)]" can refer to one or more hardware and / or software components, examples of which may include: application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs); electronic / electrical components (which may include combinations of transistors, resistors, capacitors, inductors, etc.); one or more processors; non-transitory memory (e.g., implemented by one or more memory devices) that can store one or more software or firmware programs; combinational logic circuits; and the aforementioned interconnections. The electrical circuitry system may be entirely located at the machine, or distributed among one or more of the following: the machine; external devices; and server systems.

[0087] As used in this article, the term " [processor] [(processor)] or " [Processing Resources] "[(processing resource)]" can refer to one or more units used for processing, examples of which include ASICs, microprocessors, FPGAs, microfabrication devices, digital signal processors (DSPs), state machines, or other suitable components. A processor can be configured to execute computer programs; for example, it can take the form of machine-readable instructions, which can be stored in non-transitory memory and / or programmable logic. A processor can have various configurations corresponding to those discussed for the circuit system, such as built-in machines or distributed as part of the system. As used herein, any machine-executable instructions or computer-readable medium can be configured to cause, for example, the machines or systems disclosed herein to perform the methods disclosed, and therefore can be used synonymously with the terminology.

[0088] As used in this article, the term " [coding] [(code)] can refer to the storage medium for encoding information. The encoding can be an optically readable code, such as a barcode. The encoding can be formed by multiple units, which can be called elements or tags.

[0089] As used in this article, the term " [Preparation Information] "[(preparation information)]" can refer to information related to the preparation process. This information can vary depending on the implementation of the processing unit. Parameters related to a container processing unit containing a fluid processing system may include one or more of the following: fluid pressure; fluid temperature; mass / volume flow rate; fluid volume; filtration / purification parameters for the fluid; and carbonation parameters for the fluid. More general parameters may include one or more of the following: container geometry, such as shape or volume; and precursor type.

[0090] As used in this article, the term " [Wood pulp] [base] "[(wood pulp based)]" can refer to the material or component forming the container, which is one or more of the following: porous; fibrous; cellulose; formed of cellulose material; formed of natural cellulose material; formed of reconstituted or regenerated cellulose material; non-woven; composed entirely of wood pulp or a composition of wood pulp; and wet-formed. The thickness of the wood-based material can be from 0.25 mm to 0.75 mm or about 0.5 mm. The wood-based material can be 200 to 400 gsm.

[0091] As used in this article, the term " [Non-woven] "[(non-woven)]" can refer to non-woven or non-knitted fibrous materials. Non-woven materials can be made of fibers bonded together. As used in this article, the term "[(non-woven)]" is used to refer to non-woven or non-knitted fibrous materials. [Porous] "[(porous)]" can refer to materials configured with voids to allow water (or other liquids) to pass through. As used herein, the term "[(porous)]" [Fiber] "[(fibrous)]" can refer to materials containing fibers, which may be present in one or more of the material's components. As used herein, the term "[(fibrous)]" [Cellulose] [(cellulosic)] or " [Cellulose materials] "[(cellulosic material)]" can refer to known woody and / or non-woody materials, such as Manila hemp, sisal, jute, bleached and unbleached softwood and hardwood species. Cellulosic materials can include regenerated or reconstituted cellulose. As used herein, the term "[cellulosic material]" is used in conjunction with other related terms. [Natural Cellulose Materials] "[(natural cellulosic material)]" can refer to known wood-based materials that are not recycled. As used in this text, the term "[(natural cellulosic material)]" is used to refer to... [Reconstructed or regenerated cellulose materials] "[(reconstituted or regenerated cellulosic material)]" can refer to natural cellulose materials that have undergone processing (including reconstituted or regenerated materials), examples of which include synthetic fibers and lyocell fibers. As used herein, the term "[(reconstituted or regenerated cellulosic material)]" is used in conjunction with other technical terms. [Wood pulp] "[(wood pulp)]" can refer to lignocellulosic materials, which can be prepared by mechanically or chemically separating cellulose fibers from one or more of wood, fiber crops, paper, or bags. As used herein, the term "[(wood pulp)]" is used in conjunction with other similar materials. [Wet Formation] "[(wet formed)]" can refer to a process of forming from an aqueous solution of fibers. The aqueous solution of fibers can be heated and pressed in a mold to shape the material and remove water from it. [General System Description]

[0092] Referring to Figure 1, system 2 includes machine 4, container 6, server system 8, and peripheral devices 10. Server system 8 communicates with machine 4 via computer network 12. Peripheral devices 10 communicate with machine 4 via computer network 12.

[0093] In variant embodiments not shown: peripheral devices and / or server systems are omitted.

[0094] Although computer network 12 is illustrated as identical between machine 4, server system 8, and peripheral device 10, other configurations are possible, including: different computer networks for communication between each device: the server system communicates with the machine via the peripheral device (rather than directly). In a particular example: the peripheral device communicates with the machine via a communication interface (e.g., using the Bluetooth™ protocol), and; the server system communicates with the machine via a wireless interface (e.g., using the IEEE 802.11 standard) and also via the Internet. [machine]

[0095] Referring to Figure 2, machine 4 includes: a processing unit 14 for processing the precursor material; an electrical circuit system 16; and an encoding and reading system 18.

[0096] Electrical circuit system 16 controls code reading system 18 to read codes (not shown in Figure 2) from container 6 and determine preparation information from them. Electrical circuit system 16 uses the preparation information to control processing unit 14 to execute a preparation process in which precursor materials are processed into beverages or food or their precursors.

[0097] In a variant embodiment not shown: the encoding and encoding reading system is omitted, and the machine executes one or more preparation procedures stored in electronic memory of the electrical circuit system. [First Example of a Processing Unit]

[0098] Referring to Figures 3 and 4, in a first example of the processing unit 14, the unit includes a container processing unit 20 and a fluid conditioning system 22.

[0099] The container processing unit 20 is configured to process the container 6 to obtain a beverage or food from the precursor material (not shown) therein. The fluid conditioning system 22 conditions the fluid supplied to the container processing unit 20. The electrical circuit system 16 uses preparation information read from the container 6 to control the container processing unit 20 and the fluid conditioning system 22 to execute the preparation procedure. [Fluid Conditioning System]

[0100] Referring to Figure 3, the fluid conditioning system 22 includes a storage tank 24 and a pump.

[26] [;] Heat exchanger 28, and; outlet 30 for conditioning the fluid. Storage tank 24 contains fluid, typically sufficient for multiple preparation processes. Pump 26 displaces the fluid from storage tank 24, through heat exchanger 26, and to outlet 30 (which is connected to container processing unit 20). Pump 26 can be implemented as any suitable device for driving the fluid, including: reciprocating; rotary pump; other suitable configurations. Heat exchanger 28 is implemented to heat the fluid and may include: row type, hot block type heaters; heating elements that directly heat the fluid in the storage tank; other suitable configurations.

[0101] In variant embodiments not illustrated: pumps are omitted, for example, fluid is fed to the container processing unit by gravity or pressurized by a mains water supply; storage tanks are omitted, for example, water is supplied by a mains water supply; heat exchangers are configured to cool the fluid, for example, they may include a refrigeration circulating heat pump; heat exchangers are omitted, for example, the mains water supply supplies water at the desired temperature; the fluid conditioning system includes a filtration / purification system, for example, a UV light system, the extent to which it is applied to the fluid is controllable; a carbonation system controls the degree of carbonation of the fluid. [Container Processing Unit]

[0102] The container processing unit 20 can be implemented with a range of configurations, as illustrated in Examples 1 to 4 below:

[0103] Referring to Figures 4A and 4B, a first example of the container processing unit 20 is used to process a container configured as a capsule 6 (suitable examples of capsules are provided in Figure 6, which will be discussed) for the preparation of a beverage. The container processing unit 20 is configured as an extraction unit 32 to extract the beverage from the capsule 6. The extraction unit 32 includes a container / capsule holding portion 34 and a closing member 36. The extraction unit 32 is movable to a capsule receiving position (Figure 4A), wherein the capsule holding portion 34 and the closing member 36 are configured to receive the capsule 6. The extraction unit 32 is movable to a capsule extraction position (Figure 4B), wherein the capsule holding portion 34 and the closing member 36 form a seal around the capsule 6 and the beverage can be extracted from the capsule 6. The extraction unit 32 can be driven by an actuator or moved manually between these positions.

[0104] The outlet 30 of the fluid conditioning system 22 is configured to penetrate the injection head and / or penetrator 38 of the container to form an inlet for injecting conditioning fluid into the capsule 6 at the capsule extraction position (typically under high pressure). The beverage outlet 40 is configured to extract the extracted beverage and convey it from the extraction unit 32.

[0105] Extraction unit 32 is configured to prepare a beverage by applying pressurized (e.g., 10 to 20 bar) and heated (e.g., 50 to 98 degrees Celsius) fluid to the precursor material inside capsule 6. The pressure is increased over a predetermined period of time until the pressure at the ruptured portion (which is the closing member of capsule 6) exceeds the limit, causing the member to rupture and the beverage to be dispensed to beverage outlet 40.

[0106] In variant embodiments not shown, although the injection head and beverage outlet are depicted as being disposed on the holding portion and the closing member, respectively, alternatively, the injection head and beverage outlet may be disposed on the closing member and the holding portion, respectively; or both may be disposed on the same portion. Furthermore, the extraction unit may include two components configured as capsule holding portions, for example, for capsules symmetrical with respect to a flange, including Nespresso® Professional capsules.

[0107] Examples of suitable extraction units are provided in EP 1472156 A1 and EP 1784344 A1, which are incorporated herein by reference, and provide hydraulically sealed extraction units.

[0108] In a second example of the container processing unit (not shown), an extraction unit similar to that of the first example is provided; however, the extraction unit operates at a lower pressure and by centrifugation. An example of a suitable capsule is the Nespresso® Vertuo capsule. A suitable example is provided in EP 2594171 A1, which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0109] In the third example (not shown), the capsule processing unit operates by dissolving a beverage precursor, selected for dissolution under high pressure and temperature fluid. This configuration is similar to the extraction units in the first and second examples; however, the pressure is lower and therefore a sealed extraction unit is not required. Specifically, fluid can be injected into the capsule cap, with the ruptured portion located at the base of the capsule's storage portion. An example of a suitable capsule is the Nespresso® Dolce Gusto capsule. Examples of suitable extraction units are disclosed in EP 1472156 A1 and EP 1784344 A1, which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0110] In a fourth example (not shown), the container processing unit is configured as a mixing unit to prepare a beverage or food precursor stored in a container, which is a vessel intended for consumption by an end user. The mixing unit includes a stirrer (e.g., a planetary mixer, a spiral mixer, or a vertical cutter mixer) for mixing and a heat exchanger for heating / cooling the beverage or food precursor in the vessel. A fluid supply system may also supply fluid to the vessel. Examples of such configurations are provided in WO 2014067987 A1, which is incorporated herein by reference. [Control electrical circuit system]

[0111] Referring to FIG5, the electrical circuit system 16 is implemented to control the electrical circuit system 48 to control the processing unit 14 to perform a preparation procedure. In the embodiment of FIG5, for illustrative purposes, the processing unit 14 is illustrated as a first example, which includes a container processing unit 20 and a fluid supply unit 22.

[0112] The electrical circuit systems 16 and 48 at least partially implement (e.g., in combination with hardware): an input unit 50 for receiving input from the user confirming that the machine 4 will execute a preparation procedure; a processor 52 for receiving input from the input unit 46 and providing control outputs to the processing unit 14; and a feedback system 54 for providing feedback from the processing unit 54 during the preparation procedure, which can be used to control the preparation procedure.

[0113] The input unit 50 is implemented as a user interface, which may include one or more of the following: buttons, such as joystick buttons or push buttons; joysticks; LEDs; graphic or character LDCs; graphic screens with touch sensing and / or screen edge buttons; other similar devices; sensors to determine whether a container has been supplied to the machine by the user.

[0114] Feedback system 54 can achieve one or more of the following or other feedback control operations:

[0115] A flow sensor is used to determine the flow rate / volume of the fluid to the outlet 30 (shown in FIG. 3) of the fluid supply system 22, which can be used to calculate the correct amount of fluid to the container 6 and thus adjust the power to the pump 26;

[0116] A temperature sensor is used to determine the temperature of the fluid at the outlet 30 of the fluid supply system 22, which can be used to ensure that the temperature of the fluid to the container 6 is correct, and thus regulate the power to the heat exchanger 28.

[0117] A level sensor is used to determine whether the level of the fluid in the reservoir 24 is sufficient for the preparation process;

[0118] A position sensor is used to determine the position of the extraction unit 32 (e.g., capsule extraction position or capsule receiving position).

[0119] It should be understood that electrical circuit systems 16, 48 are suitably adapted to other instances of processing unit 14, such as a second instance of a container processing system, where a feedback system can be used to control the rotational speed of the capsule. [container]

[0120] Referring to Figure 7, the container 6 for use with a first instance of the processing unit 14 includes a container 6 configured as a capsule 6. The capsule 6 includes: a closure member 56; a storage portion 58; and a flange portion 60.

[0121] The coordinate axes of this end container include a depth direction 100, a longitudinal direction 102, and a transverse direction 104. The rotation axis 106 extends in the depth direction 100 and defines a radial direction 108, which lies in the plane defined by the longitudinal direction 102 and the transverse direction 104.

[0122] When viewed from a plane defined by the longitudinal direction 102 and the transverse direction 104, capsule 6 has a circular cross-section.

[0123] The closing member 56 is disposed in a plane defined by the longitudinal direction 102 and the transverse direction 104. The closing member 56 closes the storage portion 58 and includes a flexible membrane. The closing member 56 has an outer surface 62 (the surface of which is away from the storage portion 58) and an inner surface 64 (the surface of which faces the storage portion 58).

[0124] The flange portion 60 is configured to interconnect the storage portion 58 and the closure member 56 to hermetically seal the precursor material. The flange portion 60 is configured as an annular ring extending from the inner edge 66 to the outer edge 68 in the radial direction 108. The flange portion 60 presents an upper surface 70, which is configured in a plane defined by the longitudinal direction 102 and the transverse direction 104. The upper surface 70 is attached to the periphery of the inner surface 64 of the closure member 56 by an adhesive. The lower surface 72 of the flange faces the storage portion 58.

[0125] Storage portion 58 includes a cavity 74 for storing precursor material (not shown). Cavity 74 includes a sidewall 76 and a base 78. The sidewall 76 extends primarily in the depth direction 100 from a distal edge 80 to a proximal edge 82, wherein the proximal and distal ends are defined relative to the base 78. The sidewall 76 tapers, wherein the increasing radius dimension extends from the adjacent distal edge 80 to the proximal edge 82. The base 78 extends primarily in the radial direction 108, but also has fewer components in the depth direction 100. The base 78 extends from axis 106 to a peripheral edge 84, which engages the proximal edge 80 of the sidewall 76. The distal edge 82 of the sidewall 76 engages the inner edge 66 of the flange portion 60. Storage portion 58 and flange portion 60 are integrally formed.

[0126] Capsule 6 has a diameter of 2 to 5 cm and an axial length of 2 to 4 cm. Details of the construction, manufacture and / or extraction of the container and / or closure components are disclosed, for example, in EP 2155021, EP 2316310, EP 2152608, EP2378932, EP2470053, EP2509473, EP2667757 and EP 2528485.

[0127] In variant embodiments not shown: the capsule may have other cross-sectional shapes, including square, other polygonal, or elliptical; the closure member may be rigid or other non-membrane in form; the flange may be connected to the upper surface of the closure member, for example, by curling; the sidewalls may be configured, including having an inverted tapered shape or aligned with the depth direction, or bendable; the base may be configured, including flat or curved; the flange portion may be connected to the storage portion rather than being integrally formed; the closure member may be configured as the storage portion, for example, it may include a cavity; and the flange portion may be omitted, for example, the closure member may be directly connected to the storage portion.

[0128] Referring to Figures 4A and 4B, the base 78 of the storage portion 58 is perforated by the penetrator 38 to form an inlet for injecting conditioning fluid into the cavity 74, as will be discussed. The penetrator 38 may be configured as a separate blade or a blade integrated with the injector. [Preparation Procedure]

[0129] Referring to Figure 7, the execution of a procedure for preparing beverages / foods from precursor materials is illustrated:

[0130] Block 70: The user supplies container 6 to machine 4.

[0131] Block 72: Electrical circuit system 16 (e.g., its input unit 50) receives user instructions to prepare beverage / food from precursors, and electrical circuit system 16 (e.g., processor 52) initiates the program.

[0132] Block 74: Electrical circuit system 16 controls processing unit 14 to process containers (e.g., in a first example of container processing unit 20, extraction unit 32 moves from capsule receiving position (Fig. 4A) to capsule extraction position (Fig. 4B)).

[0133] Block 76: The electrical circuit system 16 executes the preparation process by controlling the processing unit 14 based on preparation information read from the code on the container or stored in memory. In a first example of the processing unit, this includes: controlling the fluid conditioning system 22 to supply fluid to the container processing unit 20 during the temperature, pressure, and time specified in the preparation information.

[0134] The electrical circuit system 16 then controls the container processing unit 20 to move from the capsule extraction section through the capsule discharge position, discharge the container 6, and return to the capsule receiving position.

[0135] In a variant embodiment not shown: the blocks can be executed in a different order, for example, block 72 can be executed before block 70; a block can be omitted, for example, block 70 can be omitted, and the machine stores the capsule box.

[0136] As part of the fabrication process, the electrical circuit system 16 can obtain additional fabrication information from the server system 8 and / or peripheral devices 10 via the computer network 12 using the machine's communication interface (not shown). [Container reinforcement section]

[0137] Referring to Figures 8 through 13, the container 6 associated with the embodiment of Figure 6 includes a storage portion 58 formed of a wood pulp-based material. In variant embodiments not shown, only a portion of the storage portion may be formed of a wood pulp-based material, for example, only the base or base region as defined herein.

[0138] The storage section 58 includes a stiffening section 110, which is configured to stiffen the storage section 58. Specifically, the stiffening section 110 stiffens the vicinity of the perforation area 112 of the storage section 58 through which the penetrator 38 penetrates (shown in Figures 4A and 4B), making it easier to penetrate the perforation area 112.

[0139] The perforated region 112 provides one or more fluid inlets (not shown) for injecting conditioning fluid into the cavity 74 of the storage portion 58 for processing precursor materials. The conditioning fluid is injected into the container holding portion 34 (shown in Figures 4A and 4B), which is fluidly connected to the fluid inlets. The perforated region 112 is disposed on the base 78 of the storage portion 58 as an annular ring centered about the rotation axis 106.

[0140] The penetrator (not shown) comprises three perforating elements circumferentially arranged at equal angular intervals around an annular ring surrounding the perforated region 112. Each of the perforating elements is configured to form a dedicated inlet. The perforating elements have a cross-sectional area of ​​2 to 5 mm². The penetrator applies a combined force of 1 to 50 N or 2 to 10 N (i.e., summed up by all perforating elements) to the perforated region 112 in the opposite depth direction 100. The perforated region 112 can be perforated by various failure modes, including notching and / or brittle fracture, as will be discussed.

[0141] When the perforated area 112 is subjected to a compressive force of 1 to 50 N or 2 to 10 N applied by the penetrator in the opposite depth direction 100, the stiffening portion 110 prevents the perforated area 112 of the base 78 from displacing more than 0.5 to 2 mm in the opposite depth direction 100.

[0142] In variant embodiments not shown: the penetrator includes a different number of perforated elements, such as 1, 2 or 4; the perforated elements have different cross-sectional areas, for example, the same total cross-sectional area as in the example may be distributed across the perforated elements; the penetrator applies different forces; the perforated regions are configured to have shapes other than annular rings, including circles or squares.

[0143] The stiffening portion 110 is configured as eight discrete units, which are circumferentially spaced from each other around the axis 106 at equal angular distances. The stiffening portion 110 extends continuously over the proximal portions of the base 78 and the sidewall 76.

[0144] As best seen in Figures 9 to 11 and Figure 13, the stiffening portion 110 is configured as a channel 114, which has sidewalls 116 and a base 118. The base 118 is linearly and radially aligned. The sidewalls 116 bend into the base 118, so the channel 114 is generally V-shaped with a curved perimeter.

[0145] The channel 114 extends primarily in the depth direction 100 and has a radial direction 108 component, such that the base 118 is angled at an angle α of about 50 to 60 degrees relative to the plane defined by the longitudinal direction 102 and the transverse direction 104 (best seen in the cross section of FIG10 when observing the right stiffening portion side).

[0146] As can be best seen in Figure 10, the proximal end of the sidewall 76 has a depth dimension d, which is measured from the lowest position of the base 78 to the distal end of the base 118 of the stiffening portion 110, and is less than about 40% of the total length D, which is measured from the lowest position of the base 78 to the upper surface 70 of the flange portion 60.

[0147] As best seen in Figures 10 and 13, the stiffening portion 110 protrudes into the interior of the cavity 74 in the opposite radial direction 108, and no portion of the stiffening portion 110 has a larger radial dimension than the corresponding portion of the sidewall 76 (which does not include the stiffening portion 110) (best seen in the cross-section of Figure 13 when comparing the virtual cross-sectional line V of the equivalent segment of the stiffening portion 110 and the unstiffened portion). In this way, the container 6 can be used with a container holding portion 34 that is not specifically adapted to hold the container 6 (e.g., by implementing a groove to contain the outward extension of the stiffening portion).

[0148] In variant embodiments not shown: there are other numbers of stiffening portions, including 3, 4, or 6; the stiffening portions may directly engage with each other; the stiffening portions have other profiles, including U or V shapes; the stiffening portions extend outward in a radial direction; the stiffening portions may alternatively be configured to include having curved or stepped bases and non-radially aligned bases; the bases may alternatively be angled, including angles α of about 30 degrees to 70 degrees; and d may alternatively vary in size to be less than about 50% or 30% of D, and / or d may have a minimum value of at least 10% or 20% of D.

[0149] Referring to Figure 13, the stiffening portion 110 extends along the base 78 from the virtual peripheral edge 84' of the base 78 (which exists for sections not containing the stiffening portion, as indicated by the dashed line V) to near the perforated region 112. As best seen in Figure 9, the distance W defined by the distal end of the base 118 of the channel 114 is within 4 mm in the radial direction 108 of the nearest edge of the perforated region 112.

[0150] As best seen in Figure 13, the stiffening portion 110 has a maximum channel depth X of approximately 3 mm. The channel depth X is measured from the vertical base 118 to the intersection point of the virtual cross-section line V, excluding the stiffened portion. In this example, the intersection point between the vertical distance and the virtual cross-section line V occurs at the virtual proximal edge 80' of the sidewall 76. In variant embodiments not shown: the depth X can alternatively vary in size, ranging from 5 mm to 2 mm or 10 mm to 2 mm; the maximum depth can be located outside the proximal edge.

[0151] As best seen in Figure 13, the stiffening portion 110 extends a distance Y along the sidewall 76 in the opposite depth direction 100, defined as from the virtual proximal edge 80' of the sidewall 76 used for the virtual cross-section line V to the distal end of the channel 114. The distance Y is less than 40% or 30% of the total depth D. The minimum distance Y can be greater than 10% or 20% of the total depth D.

[0152] The stiffening portion 110 extends along the base 78 in the opposite radial direction 108 from the virtual peripheral edge 84' of the base 78, which is used for the virtual section line V, to a radius Z. The radius Z is greater than 30% or 40% of the total radius R of the base. The maximum radius of Z can be 90% or 80% of the radius R.

[0153] As best seen in the cross-section of Figure 13, when comparing the right stiffening portion 110 side with the dashed line V, the stiffening portion 110 bridges the proximal region of the base 78 and the sidewall 76; otherwise, the two are not bridged.

[0154] In a variant embodiment not shown: the stiffening portion is alternatively formed to include a portion that increases the material thickness, for example, in contrast to a rib extending into the cavity interior; and the channel may include a region of increased material thickness, including at the base.

[0155] In block 74, as shown in Figure 7, the previously described preparation process can be achieved by placing container 6 in container holding portion 34 of processing unit 14 of machine 2. Container 6 can be penetrated by penetrating device 38 to form an inlet, while simultaneously stiffening container 6 to resist displacement using stiffening portion 110.

[0156] One method of forming a storage portion may include simultaneously wet-forming the storage portion and the stiffening portion, for example via the same mold / press. Alternatively, a rigid element may then be pressed into the storage portion. [Container shoulder]

[0157] Referring to Figures 8, 11, and 14, the sidewall 76 includes a shoulder 120 configured to engage the flange portion 60. The shoulder 120 extends in the depth direction 100 from the lower surface 72 of the flange portion 60 to the outer edge 122. The shoulder 120 defines a linear outer surface 124 between the flange portion 60 and the outer edge 122. The outer surface 124 tapers, having a decreasing radial extent from the flange portion 60 to the outer edge 122. This taper facilitates easier positioning of the container 6 within the container holding portion 34. The outer edge 122 is curved.

[0158] In a variant embodiment not shown: the shoulder is separated from the flange portion by a gap; the outer surface may have an alternative profile, including a curved or aligned profile in the depth direction; and the outer edge may have an alternative profile, including as a step or a linear ramp.

[0159] The outer surface 124 has a larger radial extent than the void-defining region 126 of the sidewall 76. The void-defining region 126 of the sidewall 76 extends from the shoulder 120 to the base 78 for the remainder of the sidewall 76.

[0160] In a variant embodiment not shown: the lower part of the sidewall includes a second shoulder that engages with the container holding portion, such that the gap defining region of the sidewall does not extend over the remainder of the sidewall.

[0161] Referring to Figure 14, the shoulder 120 is configured to engage the upper region of the container holding portion 34 of the processing unit 14 of the machine 2, wherein the gap defining region 126 is positioned in the radial direction 108 to separate from the container holding portion 34 to define the gap 128 therebetween.

[0162] The shoulder 120 is configured to correspond in shape to the area above the container holding portion 34, so that the entire outer surface 124 engages to improve positioning accuracy.

[0163] In variant embodiments not shown: the outer surface includes grooves or other surface discontinuities that do not engage with the container holding portion to reduce adhesion.

[0164] The shoulder 120 has a depth distance S between the intersection of the lower surface 72 of the flange portion 60 and the intersection of the outer edge 122 and the outer surface 124, which is less than about 15% of the total depth D of the storage portion 58 (as previously defined).

[0165] In variant embodiments not shown: S alternatively varies in size, including less than 40% or 30% of D, and; the minimum distance of S may be greater than 5% or 10% of D.

[0166] The void region 128 has a separation distance N of 1 mm to 2 mm between the void defining region 126 of the sidewall 76 and the directly adjacent portion of the container holding portion 34 in the radial direction 108. The average separation distance N along the depth of the void defining region 126 of the sidewall 76 (excluding the stiffening portion 110) is about 1.5 mm.

[0167] In variant embodiments not shown: N is alternatively varied in size, including greater than 0.5 mm and / or less than 5 mm; the average separation distance is greater than 0.5 mm or 1 mm or 2 mm.

[0168] Referring to Figure 15, container 6 is configured to partially stack within a corresponding second container 6'. The outer edge 122 of the shoulder 120 of container 6 engages with the flange portion 60' of the second container 6' (including the proximal portion of the storage section). A portion of the gap-defining region 126 of the sidewall 76 of container 6 adjacent to the shoulder 120' of the second container 6 is away from the shoulder 120' to define a gap 130. The remaining portion of the gap-defining region 126 of the sidewall 76 of container 6 also defines a gap 130. With this configuration, the amount of adhered stacked containers can be reduced before filling.

[0169] In block 74, as shown in FIG7, the previously described preparation procedure can be achieved by: placing container 6 in container holding portion 34 of processing unit 14 of machine 2, and: engaging shoulder 120 of sidewall 78 of container 6 with container holding portion 34 to position the gap defining region 126 of sidewall 76 away from container holding portion 34 to define gap region 128.

[0170] The container 6 can be penetrated by the penetrator 38 to form an inlet, and conditioning fluid is injected into the inlet while maintaining the void region 128. The container 6 can be discharged from the container holding portion 34 while maintaining the void region 128.

[0171] A method for filling a container 6 with a precursor material (not shown) includes: disposing a storage portion 58 of the container 6 in a container holding portion (not shown, but contemplated to be similar to the container holding portion 34 of machine 2) of a filling machine (also not shown). Thus, this step can achieve as discussed with respect to the container holding portion 34. The storage portion 58 can supply two or more containers stacked in the aforementioned configuration to the filling machine. After filling, the storage portion 58 can be closed by a closing member 56.

[0172] One method of forming a storage portion may include simultaneously wet-forming the storage portion and the shoulder, for example via the same mold / press. Alternatively, the shoulder may then be pressed into the storage portion. [Container perforation area]

[0173] Referring to Figures 8, 9, 10, 11 and 16, the perforated area 112, as previously discussed, is treated to facilitate relatively easier perforation by the penetrator 38 (as shown in Figures 4A and 4B) than the untreated portion, as will be discussed.

[0174] Referring to Figure 16, the annular ring system of the perforated region 112 is configured as three segments 132, which are radially demarcated by three bridging members 134. Segment 130 is processed, but the bridging members 134 are not processed.

[0175] For the previously discussed example of the penetrator 38, there are three penetrating elements arranged with an equal angular distance of 120 degrees relative to each other about the axis 106. The bridging elements 134 have different equal angular distances: since there are four bridging elements 134, the angular distance about the axis 106 is 90 degrees. In this way, if the rotational orientation of the container 6 about the axis 106 is unknown, it can be ensured that even if one penetrating element happens to align with the bridging element 132, the other penetrating elements will not. Therefore, it can be ensured that at least one penetrating element completely penetrates the perforated areas 112, 132, and not the bridging element 134.

[0176] In a variant embodiment not shown: the penetrator has a number of penetrating elements other than three, such as 2 or 4; the perforated region comprises a number of segments other than four, such as 3 or 5; preferably, the number of segments is different from the number of penetrating elements; and bridging elements are omitted, such that the perforated region is a continuous loop.

[0177] The wood pulp-based material is vitrified by treating the penetration region 112 with increased temperature and pressure, via pressing. The temperature is 100 to 300°C. The pressure is 1 x 10⁵ to 1 x 10⁷ Pa. It should be understood that any suitable combination of temperature and pressure can be selected; for example, vitrification can be achieved by cold pressing, which may include pressing at room temperature but under pressure higher than hot pressing. The increased temperature and pressing force can be applied for 5 to 60 seconds.

[0178] The treated perforated area 112 has a reduced thickness. For example, a 0.5 mm thick material can be reduced to a thickness of 0.3 mm. Treatment can be applied until this thickness reduction has been achieved.

[0179] As used herein, the term "glassification" or "glassify" refers to a change in one or more material properties of wood pulp to make it more like glass. This can be characterized by one or more of the following material properties (compared to untreated wood pulp): a glass transition temperature higher than ambient temperature; a harder material; a more brittle material; a material with low energy absorption before fracture; a thinner segment of material; a material with reduced fiber porosity; reduced water absorption; increased stiffness; and the transformation of the material to a glassy state.

[0180] In variant embodiments, alternative treatments include: applying a coating; and scoring to reduce the cross-sectional area of ​​the material. As used herein, the term "applying a coating" can refer to applying a coating to the wood pulp-based material to close the pores / voids between fibers and / or act as a barrier. This can provide reduced water absorption, which may be advantageous for the reasons previously given. This can also provide for more brittle failure, which may be advantageous for the reasons previously given. The coating may contain caramel or starch or other suitable coatings. As used herein, the term "scoring" can refer to removing a portion of the material by cutting tools or other means. The removed portion of the material may be up to 50% of the material thickness. The portion of the material may be one or more of the following: a line; the perimeter of a perforated area; the area of ​​the perforated area.

[0181] By treating the perforated region 112 of the wood pulp-based container 6 with the disclosed treatment method, it can be penetrated more easily by the penetrator 38 than the untreated region. This can be characterized by one or more of the following: perforation of the perforated region containing a brittle failure mode with relatively low energy absorption, rather than a ductile failure mode with relatively high energy absorption of the untreated region; less displacement of the penetrator to achieve complete penetration (e.g., due to a reduction in the thickness of one of the perforated regions and / or less movement of the perforated region and the penetrator); and penetration with a lower maximum force.

[0182] For a perforated area 112 that is to be processed from 0.5 mm to 0.3 mm thick, for a perforated element with a total perforation area of ​​6 to 15 mm², the perforation can occur at 1 to 50 N or 2 to 10 N.

[0183] In block 74, as shown in Figure 7, the previously described preparation process can be achieved by placing container 6 in the container holding portion 34 of the processing unit 14 of machine 2. The perforated area 112 of container 6 can be penetrated by penetrating device 38 to form an entrance.

[0184] A method of forming a storage section may include wet forming of the storage section. Subsequently, the perforated area 112 may be processed by one of the previously described procedures. The bridging member 134 may be formed by a press, which is a molding process that only processes section 132.

[0185] In variant embodiments not shown: other portions of container 6, except for or in place of perforated region 112, may be processed by the procedures disclosed herein.

[0186] For example, the flange portion 60 can be treated to provide an improved surface for carrying the code on the lower surface 72 of the flange portion 60. Specifically, when formed from a wood pulp-based material, a heat and pressing process can be applied to reduce the thickness of the flange portion 60, giving it a thickness comparable to containers formed from conventional materials (e.g., aluminum) to ensure compatibility with existing machinery. The heat and pressing process can also provide a more uniform surface to serve as a substrate for the code, which can improve the reliability of code reading. In such examples, the fabrication process may include a step of reading the code to extract fabrication information from it. The step of reading the code may include rotating the code relative to a code reader.

[0187] It should be understood that any of the disclosed methods (or corresponding devices, programs, data carriers, etc.) can be implemented by a host or a client, depending on the specific implementation scheme (i.e., the disclosed methods / devices are in the form of communication and therefore can be implemented from a "viewpoint," i.e., in a manner corresponding to each other). Furthermore, it should be understood that the terms "receiving" and "transmitting" encompass "inputting" and "outputting," and are not limited to the RF context of transmitting and receiving radio waves. Therefore, for example, a chip or other device or component used to implement an embodiment may generate data for output to another chip, device, or component, or have input data from another chip, device, or component, and such output or input may be referred to as "transmitting" and "receiving," including the gerund forms, i.e., "transmitting" and "receiving," as well as "transmitting" and "receiving" in the RF context.

[0188] As used in this specification, any recipe using the type "at least one of A, B, or C" and recipes using "at least one of A, B, and C" use the disjunctive conjunctions "or" and "and" such that these recipes contain any and all combinations and permutations of A, B, and C, that is, A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B in any order, A and C in any order, B and C in any order, and A, B, and C in any order. More or fewer than three features may be used in such recipes.

[0189] In the claims, any reference numerals placed between parentheses should not be construed as limiting the scope of the claims. The word "comprising" does not exclude the presence of other elements or steps besides those listed in the claims. Furthermore, as used herein, the terms "a" or "an" are defined as one or more, not one. Moreover, the use of leading phrases in the claims (such as "at least one" and "one or more") should not be construed as implying that the indefinite article "a" or "an" introduces another claim element that limits any particular claim containing such introduced claim element to an invention containing only one such element, even when the same claim includes "one or more" or "at least one" and leading phrases such as "a" or "an". The same applies to the use of definite articles. Unless otherwise stated, terms such as "first" and "second" are used to arbitrarily distinguish between elements described by such terms. Therefore, such terms are not necessarily intended to indicate temporal or other priority of such elements. The mere fact that certain measures are described in mutually different claims does not indicate that a combination of such measures cannot be beneficial.

[0190] Unless otherwise expressly stated as incompatible, or physically or otherwise preventing such combinations of embodiments, examples, or claims, the features of the foregoing embodiments and examples, and the following claims, may be integrated in any suitable configuration, especially those that would have a beneficial effect. This is not limited to any specified benefit, and alternatively may produce benefits from hindsight. That is, the combination of features is not limited by the form described, particularly the form of dependence of examples, embodiments, or claims (e.g., numbering). Furthermore, this also applies to the terms "in one embodiment," "according to an embodiment," and the like, which are merely stylistic forms of wording and should not be construed as limiting the following features of individual embodiments to all other examples of the same or similar words. That is, the reference to "a," "an," or "some" embodiments may refer to any one or more and / or all of the disclosed embodiments, or combinations thereof. Similarly, the reference to "the" embodiment may not be limited to the preceding embodiment.

[0191] As used herein, any machine-executable instructions or computer-readable medium may perform the disclosed methods, and therefore may be used synonymously with or in the same way as the terminology.

[0192] The foregoing description provides an illustration and description of one or more implementations, but is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the scope of the invention to the precise forms disclosed. In view of the foregoing teachings, modifications and variations are possible and may be obtained from the practice of various implementations of this disclosure.

[0193] 2: System 4: Machine 6: Container 6': container 8: Server System 10: Peripheral devices 12: Computer Network 14: Processing Unit 16: Electrical circuit system 18: Encoding and Reading System 20: Container processing unit 22: Fluid Conditioning System / Fluid Supply Unit 24: Storage tank 26: Pump 28: Heat exchanger 30: Exports 32: Extraction Unit 34: Container holding part / Capsule holding part 36: Closed component 38: Penetrator 40: Beverage Exports 46: Input Unit 48: Control electrical circuit system / Electrical circuit system 50: Input Unit 52: Processor 54: Feedback System 56: Closed component 58: Storage Section 60: Flange portion 60': Flange portion 62:External surface 64: Internal surface 66: Inner edge 68: Outer edge 70: Top surface / square 72: Bottom surface / square 74: Cavity / Cube 76: Sidewall / Cube 78: Base 80: Edge 80': Edge 82: Edge 84: Peripheral Edge 84': Peripheral Edge 100: Depth direction 102: Vertical direction 104: Horizontal direction 106: Axis 108: Radial direction 110: Strengthening section 112: Perforation area 114: Channel 116: Sidewall 118: Base 120: Shoulder 120': Shoulder 122: Outer edge 124: Outer surface 126: Gap-defined area 128: Voids / Void Areas 130: Gap / Section 132: Section / Bridging / Perforation Area 134: Bridging component AA: Cross-section line d: distance D: Total Depth N: Separation distance R: Total radius S: Depth Distance V: Virtual cross-section line W: Distance X: Channel depth / Depth Y: Distance Z: Radius α: Angle

Claims

1. A container for use with a machine for preparing a beverage and / or food or a precursor thereof, the container comprising: A storage section for containing a precursor material; and a closing member for closing the storage portion, at least a portion of which is formed of a wood pulp-based material, wherein the wood pulp-based material includes a perforated region that is treated to facilitate relatively easier perforation by a penetrator of the machine than an untreated portion, and wherein the perforated region, compared to the untreated portion, includes one or more of the following material properties: reduced water absorption; increased brittleness; and increased stiffness.

2. The container of claim 1, wherein the perforated area, compared to the untreated portion, further includes the following material properties: reduced thickness.

3. The container as requested in 1 or 2, wherein the perforated area is disposed at the base of one cavity of the storage portion.

4. The container of claim 3, wherein the perforated area is configured as an annular ring centered on one of the rotation axes of the container.

5. The container as requested in item 4, wherein the annular ring is configured as segments, the segments being delimited by unprocessed bridges.

6. The container as claimed in claim 5, wherein the bridging elements are configured to have a different angular distance than one of the angular distances of the elements forming the penetrator of the machine.

7. The container of claim 1 or 2, wherein the perforated area is configured to be perforated by a penetrator element having a total area of ​​6 to 15 mm2 when subjected to at least 1 to 10 Newtons.

8. A system comprising a container as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 7 and a machine for preparing a beverage and / or food or a precursor thereof, the machine comprising: A processing unit for processing the precursor material of the container, the processing unit including the penetrator; and an electrical circuit system for controlling the processing unit.

9. A method for preparing a beverage and / or food or a precursor thereof, the method comprising: providing a container of any one of claims 1 to 7 to a system of claim 8.

10. A method for preparing a beverage and / or food or a precursor thereof, the method comprising: providing a container as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 7, the container comprising a precursor material; perforating a perforated region with a perforator of a machine, the perforated region being treated to facilitate relatively easier perforation by the perforator of the machine than an untreated portion; and supplying a conditioning fluid to the precursor material of the container via the perforation.

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