Capsule and system for making a beverage

Abstract

An optically recognisable capsule (1) for making a beverage comprises a main body (2) that is cup-shaped and has an inner cavity (20) containing a food substance (15). A top film (3) attached to the main body closes the inner cavity and forms an inlet wall for water into the capsule. An intermediate film (4), positioned between the top film and the food substance, is attached to the top film and / or to the main body along a peripheral attachment area (48) and comprises in a central region (40) an optical reading area (5) provided with an optical recognition substance. The central region is not attached to the top film, so that a pocket (47) is defined between the top film and at least the central region of the intermediate film. The intermediate film, which initially is not permeable and does not allow a passage of water from the pocket to a remaining portion (201) of the inner cavity, has a weakened region (410) that is configured to form a through-opening (44) between the pocket and the remaining portion of the inner cavity due to an action of a force which, in use, pushes the intermediate film toward a base of the main body. In use the optical reading area in the pocket is read by an optical recognition device and the water dispensed into the pocket flows toward the food substance through the through-opening.

Description

[0001] CAPSULE AND SYSTEM FOR MAKING A BEVERAGE

[0002] DESCRIPTION

[0003] This invention relates in general to the sector for making beverages and specifically to a capsule for making a beverage and a system for making a beverage which comprises that capsule.

[0004] In particular this invention relates to a capsule containing a powdered food substance inside it, which enables the beverage to be made by passing a flow of water through the food substance. This invention may be applied both if the food substance enables the beverage to be made by extraction or infusion in the water which passes through it (for example roast and ground coffee), and if the food substance enables the beverage to be made as a result of dissolving, full or partial, of the food substance in the water which passes through it (for example milk, chocolate, powdered tea, etc.).

[0005] In general, in accordance with the prior art, the capsule comprises a main body and a top film which closes the top of the main body. The main body is usually substantially cup-shaped and has a side wall, a base wall, and an inner cavity which contains the food substance. The side wall typically has a shape that is roughly frustoconical or cylindrical. In most prior art applications, the capsule is inserted into an openable and closable infusion chamber, defined by the apparatus for making the beverage. When the capsule is inside the closed infusion chamber, the water (hot and more or less pressurised depending on each case) is injected into the capsule, in order to obtain the beverage as a result of the interaction of the water with the food substance. Finally, the beverage is made to come out of the capsule and the apparatus through a dispensing path.

[0006] This invention is intended for a type of capsule into which water is injected through the top film, with the beverage coming out of the capsule through the base wall. In most applications the top film is initially closed and is pierced by a perforator which is included in the apparatus for making the beverage. The outflow of the beverage through the base wall is through an opening which may already be present in the base wall, or which may be made in the base wall by the apparatus for making the beverage.

[0007] Irrespective of how they are structured, the prior art capsules are also usually provided with a barrier to the passage of oxygen, with the aim of guaranteeing optimum preservation of the food substance contained in them.

[0008] Amongst the many types of capsule present on the market, this invention is intended for a type of capsule which is optically recognisable, that is to say, which is intended to be used in an apparatus for making a beverage provided with an optical recognition device whose function is to check the identity of the capsule inserted into the apparatus so as to enable operation of the apparatus to be managed based on that recognition. In the sector there are various prior art apparatuses capable of optical recognition of the capsule present inside them.

[0009] Optical recognition of the capsule may for example enable the apparatus to adopt the optimum dispensing parameters for the food substance contained in the capsule, therefore dispensing a high quality beverage. In fact, on the market there are apparatuses which enable different types of beverages to be obtained (for example espresso coffee, regular coffee, milk, chocolate and soluble tea). These apparatuses, as a result of optical recognition of the capsule, automatically set the parameters of the water to be injected into the capsule for making the desired beverage, for example the quantity, the pressure and the temperature of the water. In this way, as well as noticeably improving the quality of the beverage, the risk of an error due to user interaction with the apparatus is reduced. Operation of the apparatus after having performed the optical recognition, both in the case in which the capsule is recognised, and in the case in which the capsule is not recognised, depends on the type of apparatus, and may vary according to the design specifications.

[0010] This invention is intended for capsules which comprise a recognition element that is positioned inside the capsule itself, that is to say, below the top film. This type of capsule usually enables the recognition element to be protected from external agents (such as for example from a possible deterioration of the material of which the capsule is made) and / or from the actions of the user (such as for example any tampering).

[0011] An example of a prior art embodiment is described in international patent application WO 2017 / 195170 A1 : the recognition element is an element permeable for the flow of water, in whose material a recognition substance with known optical properties is inserted. That permeable element is positioned inside the capsule and may be looked at by the apparatus only after the top film has been perforated. The recognition device comprises a reading head, for example formed by an optical fibre fixed to the perforator. One possible disadvantage of that embodiment is that, since the permeable element is directly in contact with the powdered food substance, if the capsule is greatly agitated for example during transport or before use, a part of the powdered substance may pass through the permeable element, taking up position on it, and thereby disturb the reading by the recognition device.

[0012] Another example of a prior art embodiment is described in international patent application WO 2023 / 021475 A2: the recognition element consists of a membrane which is positioned at the inner face of the top film, to which it is permanently joined along the peripheral edge and to which it is not joined in an inner portion, in such a way as to allow the inner portion to be moved away from the top film by a perforator.

[0013] The inventors of this invention noticed that in said other example embodiment malfunctions may occur. First, there is a real risk that the perforator will also perforate the recognition membrane and therefore compromise reading of it by the recognition device, in particular if the latter comprises a reading head joined to the perforator and which together with the perforator would go beyond the perforated membrane. On the other hand, if the perforator has a small stroke and does not perforate the recognition membrane, the water injected through the opening made by the perforator in the top film would not be able to pass toward the food substance, since the membrane is joined along the peripheral edge to the top film, and therefore the beverage would not be made. In this context the technical purpose which forms the basis of this invention is to make a capsule - and a system for making a beverage comprising that capsule - which at least partly overcomes the above-mentioned disadvantages or which at least offers an alternative solution to those of the prior art.

[0014] The technical purpose and the aims indicated are substantially achieved by a capsule in accordance with independent claim 1 and by a system which comprises said capsule and a suitable apparatus for making beverages. Particular embodiments of this invention are defined in the corresponding dependent claims.

[0015] According to one aspect of this invention, the capsule comprises an intermediate film that is distinct from the top film, is positioned between the top film and the food substance, and at least in a central region defines with the top film a pocket having an optical reading area; initially (that is to say, before use of the capsule) the intermediate film is not permeable and does not allow a passage of water from the pocket to the remaining portion of the inner cavity of the capsule where the food substance is located; the intermediate film has at least one weakened region that is configured to form a through-opening between the pocket and the remaining portion of the inner cavity of the capsule due to an action of a force which, in use, pushes the intermediate film toward the base wall. Therefore, during use and after the top film has been perforated, the optical reading area in the pocket is read by the optical recognition device and water dispensed into the pocket by the water dispenser flows toward the food substance through said through-opening formed after the action of said force. Specifically, in one embodiment said force is exerted by the perforator of the apparatus, whilst in another embodiment said force is exerted by pressurised water dispensed into the pocket.

[0016] That is useful because, thanks to the weakened region (for example comprising a non- through incision or a sealed pre-cut), when the perforator pushes on the intermediate film in the central region the intermediate film itself breaks or opens in the weakened region before the perforator can succeed in perforating the central region. In this way there is an increase in the mobility of the central region, which consequently can be further pushed by the perforator toward the base of the capsule without being perforated, but the optical reading area remains in a position facing the recognition device. If the perforator has a limited stroke or in any case a stroke not sufficient to break or open the intermediate film in the weakened region, the latter subsequently breaks or opens when water is injected, since the weakened region is appropriately made so that it breaks after a threshold value for the water pressure in the pocket has been exceeded.

[0017] Further features and the advantages of this invention will be more apparent from the detailed description of several preferred, non-limiting embodiments of a capsule and of a system for making a beverage illustrated in the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0018] - Figure 1 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a capsule made in accordance with this invention, in which a dot and dash line shows a join between a top film and an intermediate film below;

[0019] - Figure 2 is a perspective view of the capsule of Figure 1 , in which the top film and the intermediate film are partly sectioned;

[0020] - Figure 3 is a perspective view of the capsule of Figure 1 , without the top film and the intermediate film;

[0021] - Figure 4 is a side view vertical section of the capsule of Figure 1 ;

[0022] - Figure 5 is a side view vertical section of the capsule of Figure 1 , with the intermediate film partly moved away from the top film;

[0023] - Figures 6 to 15 show, in simplified plan views, different embodiments of this invention as regards the join between the top film and the intermediate film; - Figure 16 is a perspective view of a variant of a capsule made in accordance with this invention, in which the top film is partly sectioned;

[0024] - Figure 17 is a side view vertical section of the capsule of Figure 16, in which the intermediate film is partly moved away from the top film;

[0025] - Figure 18 is a perspective view of another variant of a capsule made in accordance with this invention, in which the top film is partly sectioned;

[0026] - Figure 19 is a side view vertical section of the capsule of Figure 18, in which the intermediate film is partly moved away from the top film;

[0027] - Figure 20 is a side view vertical section of an apparatus for making a beverage, said apparatus being part of a system for making a beverage in accordance with this invention;

[0028] - Figure 21 is an enlarged view of a detail of the apparatus of Figure 20;

[0029] - Figure 22 is a simplified side view vertical section of the capsule of Figure 1 as a result of an interaction with the apparatus of Figure 20;

[0030] - Figure 23 is a simplified side view vertical section of the capsule of Figure 16 as a result of an interaction with the apparatus of Figure 20;

[0031] - Figure 24 is a simplified side view vertical section of the capsule of Figure 18 as a result of an interaction with the apparatus of Figure 20.

[0032] In this detailed description first the capsule for making a beverage will be described, then the system for making a beverage which comprises the capsule will be described.

[0033] In a similar manner as similar prior art capsules, the capsule 1 comprises a food substance 15 which enables the beverage to be made by passing a flow of water through the food substance 15 itself.

[0034] The capsule 1 comprises a main body 2, that is substantially cup-shaped, which in turn has a side wall 21 , a base wall 22, and an inner cavity 20 (which is delimited by the side wall 21 and by the base wall 22). The food substance 15 is in the inner cavity 20, that is to say, the capsule 1 contains the food substance 15 inside it.

[0035] The side wall 21 of the main body 2 extends between a first edge 25, which defines an access opening 26 to the inner cavity 20, and a second edge 27, to which the base wall 22 is connected; the base wall 22 also closes the main body 2 at said second edge 27. It should be noticed that in the embodiments illustrated the passage from the side wall 21 to the base wall 22 is without interruption, so that the second edge 27 coincides with a perimetric edge of the base wall 22. In the embodiments illustrated, the side wall 21 of the capsule 1 comprises a flange 28 which defines the first edge 25 and which extends radially outwards from the capsule 1 . The flange 28 therefore forms a substantially flat circular collar and has an internal diameter equal to the diameter of the access opening 26.

[0036] The expression “substantially cup-shaped” means that the main body 2 of the capsule 1 has a shape which resembles that of a cup, as is the case of most prior art capsules for making a beverage.

[0037] Moreover, in the context of this description the terms “top” and “lower” are understood to refer to a positioning of the main body 2 of the capsule 1 similar to that of a cup, that is to say, with the base wall 22 resting on a horizontal resting plane; therefore, these terms do not refer to a way of using the capsule 1 , in fact the capsule 1 may be suitable for being used both in apparatuses with so-called horizontal infusion units, and in apparatuses with so-called vertical infusion units.

[0038] Similarly to prior art capsules, the capsule 1 according to this invention comprises a top film 3 that is attached to the main body 2 at the first edge 25 and closes the access opening 26 (therefore also closing the top of the inner cavity 20). If the capsule 1 has the flange 28, the top film 3 is attached to the main body 2 at the flange 28. Preferably, the top film 3 is attached to the main body 2, and in particular to the flange 28, by sealing or by gluing.

[0039] Specifically, the top film 3 seals the main body 2 of the capsule 1 , which is as a whole made in such a way as to form a barrier to oxygen for the food substance 15 contained inside it. In particular, the main body 2 and the top film 3 are made with a respective material capable of creating a barrier to oxygen so as to guarantee improved preservation of what is contained in the capsule 1.

[0040] Preferably, while the main body 2 is a rigid or semi-rigid shaped element, the top film 3 is a flexible film. The main body 2 and the top film 3 may be made mainly with a plastic or metal material (in particular aluminium), or with a compostable or biodegradable material (in these cases the other components of the capsule 1 will also advantageously be respectively compostable or biodegradable).

[0041] In this description, the term “flexible” means that the object thus defined is in itself capable of bending and rolling up on itself, like an object formed by a plastic film.

[0042] The top film 3 is configured to form an inlet wall for the water into the capsule 1 ; the base wall 22 of the main body 2 is configured to form an outlet wall for the beverage out of the capsule 1 .

[0043] In the embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 to 5 the capsule 1 further comprises a water flow distribution member 6, which is placed in the inner cavity 20 between the inlet wall (that is to say, the top film 3) and the food substance 15. The food substance 15 is therefore contained between the distribution member 6 and the base wall 22.

[0044] The distribution member 6 is permeable for the flow of water which, in use, is injected into the capsule 1 through the inlet wall. For example, the distribution member 6 comprises a micro-perforated membrane, which is flexible and permeable for the water, or comprises a rigid or semi-rigid body made by moulding and in which there are holes for the passage of the water.

[0045] The holes in the micro-perforated membrane or in the rigid or semi-rigid body (or, more generally, the holes in the distribution member 6) have a size such that they allow the water to pass but not the food substance 15, at least not the grains of food substance with a particle size close to the nominal one. The use of a distribution member 6 having substantially evenly distributed holes is useful above all for capsules 1 which contain food substances that enable the beverage to be obtained by extraction or infusion, since it enables homogeneous distribution of the flow of water in the entirety of the food substance. In the case of capsules 1 containing a food substance intended to dissolve in the flow of water, the distribution member 6 may have a lower number of holes and / or holes distributed in an uneven way.

[0046] In other embodiments, the water flow distribution member may be made differently or may even not be present.

[0047] Although not shown in the figures, in at least some embodiments the capsule 1 also comprises a lower filtering member which is positioned inside the main body 2 between the food substance 15 and the outlet wall (that is to say, the base wall 22). The lower filtering member is configured to filter, in use, the beverage that is formed as a result of the passage of the flow of water through the food substance 15. The term “filter” means that the lower filtering member is configured to allow the beverage to pass, whilst it retains at least most of the powdered food substance contained between the water flow distribution member 6 and the lower filtering member itself; only a minimal part of food substance will be able to come out as powder with the beverage dispensed (usually these are granules with a particle size significantly lower than the nominal particle size for the food substance). What was described in detail up to now for the capsule 1 can be made in accordance with the prior art, even in terms of the materials usable.

[0048] The capsule 1 is intended to be used in an apparatus 8 for making beverages that is provided with an optical recognition device 9, by means of which the apparatus 8 is capable of recognising a recognition substance placed inside the capsule 1 and of adjusting its operation based on what the optical recognition device 9 detects.

[0049] For this purpose, the capsule 1 is optically recognisable by the optical recognition device 9, thanks to the presence of an optical reading area 5. The optical reading area 5 is provided with an optical recognition substance which, when stimulated by a first predetermined optical signal, emits a second optical signal with known and recognisable characteristics.

[0050] In particular, in the preferred embodiments the first predetermined optical signal has a frequency that is included in the visible and / or ultraviolet and / or infra-red band of frequencies, and has a first emission spectrum in that range of frequencies which is known and predetermined (in use, the first optical signal will coincide with the stimulating optical signal emitted by the optical recognition device 9 of the apparatus 8). The optical recognition substance is a substance selected in such a way that, when irradiated with that first predetermined optical signal, it emits a second optical signal with frequencies in the visible and / or ultraviolet and / or infra-red range of frequencies and with corresponding characteristics of the emission spectrum that are known and recognisable. In one specific embodiment, the optical recognition substance has fluorescent properties: using a first optical signal with a frequency band included in the ultraviolet range of frequencies, the optical recognition substance emits a second optical signal with a frequency band included in the visible range of frequencies; therefore, in this embodiment, the first predetermined optical signal is in the ultraviolet band and the second optical signal is in the visible band.

[0051] Further details about the aspects linked to recognition will be supplied below in the context of the description of the apparatus 8.

[0052] According to this invention, the capsule 1 comprises an intermediate film 4 that is distinct from the top film 3 and is positioned between the top film 3 and the food substance 15.

[0053] If the distribution member s is present, the intermediate film 4 is positioned between the top film 3 and the distribution member 6, in other words the distribution member 6 is positioned in the remaining portion 201 of the inner cavity 20 between the intermediate film 4 and the food substance 15 (that is to say, in the portion of inner cavity 20 not included between the top film 3 and the intermediate film 4).

[0054] In the embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 to 5 the intermediate film 4 is joined to the top film 3, specifically it is attached to the top film 3 along a peripheral attachment area 48. Alternatively or in combination, the intermediate film 4 is attached to the main body 2 of the capsule 1 along the peripheral attachment area 48. In particular, in the embodiments illustrated in Figures 16 to 19 the intermediate film 4 is not joined or attached to the top film 3, but it is attached to the side wall 21 of the main body 2 of the capsule 1 along the peripheral attachment area 48.

[0055] In the examples shown the peripheral attachment area 48 is an outer perimetric edge of the intermediate film 4; in possible alternatives the peripheral attachment area 48 may extend further radially and / or may be further in relative to the outer perimetric edge.

[0056] The intermediate film 4 comprises the optical reading area 5 in a central region 40. In this configuration the optical reading area 5 is facing the top film 3, that is to say, toward the lower face of the top film 3 (which is the face facing the inner cavity 20). Therefore, the optical reading area 5 can be read upon perforation of the top film 3, or through the top film 3 if the latter is made of transparent material.

[0057] Like the top film 3, the intermediate film 4 is also a flexible film and may be made mainly with a plastic material, or with a compostable or biodegradable material.

[0058] The term "joined to the top film" means that the intermediate film 4 is not completely independent of the top film 3 and in contrast is attached or joined to the top film 3 in particular as described below, although remaining an element distinguishable from the top film 3. That also applies if the top film 3 and the intermediate film 4 are adjacent to each other, as shown in Figure 4: the fact that they are not attached to each other over the entirety of their surface but only in some regions means that they remain distinguishable elements. In the embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 to 5 the top film 3 and the intermediate film 4 have approximately the same dimensions and even the intermediate film 4 closes the access opening 26, being attached to the flange 28 (in particular by sealing or by gluing). Specifically, the intermediate film 4 is at the lower face of the top film 3.

[0059] The central region 40 of the intermediate film 4 is not attached to the top film 3, that is to say, in that central region 40 the intermediate film 4 is not joined to the top film 3 and is not directly attached to the latter, consequently the central region 40 of the intermediate film 4 may be locally moved away from the top film 3. Therefore, a pocket

[0060] 47 is defined between the top film 3 and at least the central region 40 of the intermediate film 4. The optical reading area 5 is in the pocket 47.

[0061] The intermediate film 4 separates the pocket 47 from the remaining portion 201 of the inner cavity 20; the food substance 15 is in the remaining portion 201 of the inner cavity 20, not in the pocket 47. Initially (that is to say, before use of the capsule 1 or in any case when the intermediate film 4 is still whole) the intermediate film 4 is not permeable and does not allow a passage of water from the pocket 47 to the remaining portion 201 of the inner cavity 20.

[0062] Depending on the embodiment the perimeter of the pocket 47 may be defined - entirely or partly - by the peripheral attachment area 48 or by a perimeter line 45 which surrounds the central region 40 and which is interposed between the peripheral attachment area

[0063] 48 and the central region 40.

[0064] In this latter alternative the pocket 47 is defined in particular between a central region of the top film 3 and the central region 40 of the intermediate film 4, as shown in the dot and dash line in Figure 1 (which corresponds to the specific embodiment of Figure 6).

[0065] It should be noticed that in Figure 4 (which shows the capsule 1 before use and with the top film 3 whole) the pocket 47 is not visible since in this condition it occupies a substantially null space, whilst the pocket 47 is visible in Figure 5, in which the top film 3 has been perforated and the pocket 47 is open; as will become more apparent below, in Figure 4 the pocket 47 is closed on all sides, whilst in Figure 5 the pocket 47 is open on one side, where an opening 44 is present.

[0066] The intermediate film 4 has at least one weakened region 410 that is configured to form the opening 44, which is a through-opening between the pocket 47 and the remaining portion of the inner cavity 20, due to an action of a force which, in use, pushes the intermediate film 4 toward the base wall 22. Specifically, that through-opening 44 forms as a result of a shifting of the central region 40 toward the base wall 22, under the action of the force. In fact, when the central region 40 is moved away from the top film 3 beyond a certain point and becomes taut, the tensile stresses that start in the material of the intermediate film 4 are such that they break or open the intermediate film at the weakened region 410, which forms an area for preferential breakage or preferential detachment. As will become more apparent below from the description of the apparatus 8, upon perforation of the top film 3 at the pocket 47 (in particular thanks to a perforator 81 of the apparatus 8), the pocket 47 is intended to house a head 91 of an optical recognition device 9. In this condition the optical reading area 5 in the pocket 47 is facing the head 91 , which is configured to send the first optical signal onto the optical reading area 5 and to receive the second optical signal emitted by the optical recognition substance in response to the stimulation caused by the first optical signal. Therefore, during use of the capsule 1 in the apparatus 8, the optical reading area 5 in the pocket 47 is read by the optical recognition device 9, which can therefore perform the operations for optical recognition of the capsule 1.

[0067] The pocket 47 is also intended to receive - through the perforation made in the top film 3 - water dispensed by a water dispenser. During use of the capsule 1 in the apparatus 8, the water dispensed into the pocket 47 flows toward the food substance 15 through the through-opening 44 formed in the weakened region 410 after the action of said force. For example, the attachment along the peripheral attachment area 48 is substantially permanent (for example it is a heat-sealed attachment) and at it the intermediate film 4 is separable from the top film 3 only by applying a high level of force in such a way as to tear one of the two films. In the weakened region 410 which is located in an annular region 49 which surrounds the central region 40, in contrast, the through-opening 44 is formed by applying a much lower level of force: for example the force applied by the perforator 81 or the pressure of the water dispensed into the pocket 47 are sufficient. In one variant, the weakened region 410 is in the peripheral attachment area 48, therefore the opening 44 is created in the peripheral area 48. In this variant the through-opening 44 is formed by a local detachment of the intermediate film 4 from the top film 3.

[0068] Regarding the central region 40 of the intermediate film 4, it shall be understood that it is centred relative to the side wall 21 of the main body 2, that is to say, it is central relative to a central longitudinal axis 10 of the capsule 1 and is located at the perforator 81 of the apparatus 8 when the capsule 1 is used in the apparatus 8. It should be noticed that the through-opening 44 is not formed where the perforator 81 acts on the intermediate film 4, that is to say, it is not a perforation made by the perforator 81 , but it is formed in a region different from that which makes contact with the perforator 81 .

[0069] Specifically, the intermediate film 4 is coupled to the top film 3 and has a mechanical perforation resistance that is greater than the top film 3; the weakened region 410 is configured to form the through-opening 44 after the perforation of the top film 3 and before the action of said force (exerted by the perforator 81 ) can perforate the intermediate film 4 in the central region 40.

[0070] It should be noticed that, with the optical reading area 5 also in a central position, the weakened region 410 is positioned laterally relative to the optical reading area 5, that is to say, is off-centre, being part of an annular region 49 surrounding the central region 40. Therefore, the through-opening 44 formed does not interfere with the reading by the optical recognition device 9.

[0071] It should also be noticed that the fact that the optical reading area 5 is in the central region 40 does not mean that the optical recognition substance is present only in that central region 40. In fact, in one embodiment, the optical recognition substance is present in the entirety of the intermediate film 4. For example, for simple production, that optical recognition substance is a fluorescent pigment which is added to the material of the intermediate film 4 when the latter is made and therefore any part of the intermediate film 4 is potentially optically readable. The important aspect for the purposes of this invention is that at least in the central region 40 there is an optically readable area: that area is the optical reading area 5 considered here.

[0072] In one particular embodiment, even the distribution member 6 is provided with the optical recognition substance.

[0073] In one embodiment, the at least one weakened region 410 comprises at least one weakened section 41 that is formed by a non-through incision in the intermediate film 4. That incision may be made for example with a pressing blade, by appropriately adjusting the force applied so that the material of the intermediate film 4 is not completely lacerated, or with a laser, by appropriately adjusting its power. The non-through incision is an area for preferential breakage of the intermediate film 4, that is to say, an area with reduced mechanical strength compared with the other parts subjected to tensile stresses and which therefore breaks first (thereby forming the through-opening 44) when the force acts, pushing the intermediate film 4 (in particular its central region 40) toward the base wall 22. In the broken area the intermediate film 4 has a first flap 431 , which in particular is on the central region 40 side, and a second flap 432, which is opposite the first flap 431 and in particular is opposite the central region 40; see for example Figure 5.

[0074] In another embodiment, the at least one weakened region 410 comprises at least one pre-cut section 41 that is formed by a through-cut in the intermediate film 4. In the capsule 1 (that is to say, before use of the capsule 1 ) the through-cut is initially sealed and opens upon the action of said force, thereby forming the through-opening 44. Therefore, the seal is weak, since it breaks before the perforator 81 can succeed in perforating the intermediate film 4.

[0075] In the specific embodiment illustrated, the through-cut defines a first flap 431 , which in particular is on the central region 40 side, and a second flap 432, which in particular is opposite the central region 40 (as well as opposite the first flap 431 ); see for example Figure 6. Specifically, at least the first flap 431 is attached to the top film 3 and has a mechanical attachment strength that is less than a mechanical attachment strength of the peripheral attachment area 48.

[0076] The first flap 431 is an area for preferential detachment of the intermediate film 4 from the top film 3. In other words, the intermediate film 4 is attached to the top film at the precut section 41 , where the intermediate film 4 is cut but the first flap 431 is not free to open because it is attached to the top film 3. If the first flap 431 is attached to the top film 3 for the entire length of the cut, there is no through-opening between the pocket 47 and the rest of the inner cavity 20.

[0077] Since the attachment of the pre-cut section 41 (that is to say, of the first flap 431 ) has a reduced mechanical strength, when the central region 40 of the intermediate film 4 is pushed toward the base wall 22 the tensile stress that starts breaks the attachment of the section 41 before the attachment in the peripheral attachment area 48 succeeds in breaking or the intermediate film 4 tears elsewhere: the first flap 431 detaches from the top film 3 and the cut opens, similarly to what is shown in Figure 5.

[0078] That is achievable for example by gluing the first flap 431 to the top film 3 (after the through-cut has been made) with a glue having a gluing property just sufficient to keep the first flap 431 in position.

[0079] In one embodiment, the first flap 431 is attached to the top film 3 by means of an edible glue. It is a glue formed by organic substances of natural origin and is already used for example to apply labels directly onto foods. As well as having a strength of adhesion suitable for the purpose indicated herein, so that detachment can occur by the mechanical action of the perforator 81 , a further advantage of this type of glue is that its strength of adhesion is greatly reduced in contact with hot water, such as that dispensed into the pocket 47 of the capsule 1 for making the beverage, therefore if necessary the detachment can occur with the subsequent entry of water into the capsule 1 . Alternatively to gluing, the pre-cut section 41 may be attached for example by electrostatic adhesion or by other adhesion properties of the respective surfaces.

[0080] It should be noticed that the second flap 432 may also be attached to the top film 3 (for example using the same glue), however the tensile stress coming from the central region

[0081] 40 acts on the first flap 431 before it acts on the second flap 432 and therefore the cut is already opened with the detachment of the first flap 431 .

[0082] It should also be noticed that, even in the case of a weakened section 41 rather than a pre-cut section, it is possible to attach that section 41 to the top film 3 in a removable way similarly to what is described for the pre-cut section 41. In that case, the tensile stress causes both the detachment from the top film 3 and the breakage of the intermediate film 4.

[0083] To sum up: the attachment along the at least one weakened and / or pre-cut section 41 is weak and easily removable, whilst the attachment along the peripheral attachment area 48 is substantially permanent.

[0084] In the embodiments illustrated in Figures 6 to 14 the at least one weakened and / or precut section 41 is part of a perimeter line 45 which surrounds the central region 40 and which is interposed between the peripheral attachment area 48 and the central region 40. In particular, the perimeter line 45 is substantially circular (Figures 6 to 8) or substantially rectangular (Figures 9 to 11 and 14) or substantially triangular (Figures 12 and 13). In a different embodiment illustrated in Figure 15 the weakened and / or pre-cut section 41 extends between opposite sides of the peripheral attachment area 48.

[0085] In the embodiments illustrated in Figures 6, 7, 9, 10, 12 and 14 the perimeter line 45 comprises at least one first section which is the weakened and / or pre-cut section 41 , and at least one second section 42 where the intermediate film 4 is attached to the top film 3 for example in a substantially permanent way as in the peripheral attachment area 48. The sections 41 , 42 of which the perimeter line 45 is composed are consecutive and, specifically, they form a perimeter line 45 that is closed. If there is a plurality of first sections 41 , one more of them may be weakened and one or more of them may be precut. It should be noticed that in the figures the second section 42 with permanent attachment is shown by a continuous line and the first weakened and / or pre-cut section

[0086] 41 is shown by means of a dot or dash line.

[0087] The use of one or more second sections 42 with permanent attachment is useful for limiting the mobility of the central region 40 relative to the top film 3 in the new capsule 1 , favouring the breaking or opening of the weakened and / or pre-cut first section 41 and reducing the influence of the deformability by stretching of the intermediate film 4.

[0088] Figure 6 shows a circular perimeter line 45 with a single semi-circular second section 42 and a single semi-circular first section 41. Figure 7 shows a circular perimeter line 45 with two second sections 42 and two first sections 41 , alternating and each with a length that is one quarter of a circle, so that two through-openings 44 can be formed on opposite sides. Figure 9 shows a rectangular perimeter line 45 with two parallel second sections 42 and two parallel first sections 41 , alternating, so that two through-openings 44 can be formed on opposite sides. Figure 10 shows a rectangular perimeter line 45, with three consecutive first sections 41 and a single second section 42 on one side. Figure 12 shows a triangular perimeter line 45, with two consecutive first sections 41 and a single second section 42 on one side. Obviously other shapes are possible.

[0089] In Figures 8, 11 and 13 there are no second sections 42 with permanent attachment, but only weakened and / or pre-cut first sections 41. The perimeter line 45 which comprises the first sections 41 has a portion which is defined neither by a first section 41 nor by a second section 42, so that it is shown as an open line in the figures.

[0090] In particular embodiments which are applicable for example to Figures 6, 7, 9 and 10 the intermediate film 4 is attached to the top film 3 along the entire perimeter line 45 surrounding the central region 40, with a removable attachment along the at least one weakened and / or pre-cut section 41.

[0091] Aclosed attachment line is useful for significantly limiting the mobility of the central region 40 relative to the top film 3 in the new capsule 1 , the consequence being that a limited insertion of the perforator 81 in the pocket 47 may be sufficient to generate a tensile stress such that it opens the intermediate film 4 at the first section 41 .

[0092] However, the advisability of adopting this solution depends on the properties of the intermediate film 4 and in particular on its deformability by stretching, even relative to the deformability of the top film 3. Approximately, the more deformable the intermediate film 4 is, the more useful it may be to make the attachment line nearer toward the central region 40.

[0093] However, it is advisable for a minimum diameter of the attachment line (or a minimum diameter of a central circle which inscribes the attachment line) to be at least double a penetration height of the perforator 81 in the capsule 1 , with the aim of preventing the perforator 81 from being able to also perforate the intermediate film 4 or being able to slide into the through-opening 44 (which would render the optical reading area 5 no longer readable). That minimum diameter may also be considered as a minimum diameter of the central region 40.

[0094] For example, considering a 7.3 mm penetration of the perforator 81 , that minimum diameter is 15 mm.

[0095] Figure 14 is a variant of Figure 10, in which the mobility of the central region 40 relative to the top film 3 in the new capsule 1 is further limited thanks to a closed attachment line formed entirely by sections with permanent attachment (three second sections 42 on the perimeter line 45, one additional section 425). The weakened or pre-cut first section 41 is located inside the region surrounded by the attachment line.

[0096] In the embodiments of Figures 6, 8 and 10 to 13 the perimeter line 45 comprises the at least one weakened and / or pre-cut section 41 or a plurality of consecutive weakened and / or pre-cut sections 41 . The through-opening 44 formed by the breaking or by the opening of the one or more sections 41 delimits a tab 50 which comprises the optical reading area 5 and which is flexible relative to a remaining portion of the intermediate film 4, as shown for example in Figures 4 and 22. In fact, the tab 50 remains connected to the remaining portion of the intermediate film 4 by a portion of perimeter line 45 which does not break (in particular by a second section 42 with permanent attachment, if present) and, although bending inwards into the capsule 1 under the thrust of the perforator 81 , the tab 50 remains facing the head 91 of the optical recognition device 9. For example, the perimeter line 45 has a length at least half of which is formed by a single weakened and / or pre-cut section 41 (as in Figures 6 and 8) or by a plurality of consecutive weakened and / or pre-cut sections 41 (as in Figures 10 to 13).

[0097] As already indicated, the intermediate film 4 is attached to the top film 3 along the peripheral attachment area 48, which is outside the perimeter line 45 which surrounds the central region 40. Therefore, the annular region 49 is interposed between the peripheral attachment area 48 and the central region 40. The attachment in the peripheral area 48 is in particular a permanent attachment, similar to that of the second section 42 of the perimeter line 45.

[0098] For example, the intermediate film 4 has a diameter similar to (or slightly less than) the top film 3. In this case the two films may also be attached to each other at or near their perimetric edges (which therefore for the intermediate film 4 means the peripheral attachment area 48). In one example embodiment, the top film 3 is attached to the intermediate film 4 along their perimetric edges and the intermediate film 4 is attached to the main body 2, and in particular to the flange 28, by sealing or by gluing. In other words, the top film 3 is attached to the main body 2 with the intermediate film 4 interposed between them.

[0099] In an alternative embodiment, the top film 3 is attached directly to the main body 2 and the intermediate film 4 has a diameter less than that of the top film 3 and the diameter of the access opening 26, so that the intermediate film 4 - even if it has a peripheral attachment area 48 attached to the top film 3 - does not close the access opening 26 to the inner cavity 20.

[0100] In the alternative embodiments shown in Figures 16 to 19 the intermediate film 4, rather than being attached to the top film 3, is spaced apart from the top film 3 (therefore is not joined to it) and is attached to the side wall 21 of the main body 2 along the peripheral attachment area 48.

[0101] Therefore, in them, the pocket 47 is defined between the top film 3, the intermediate film 4 and a section of side wall 21 . Unlike the embodiment of Figures 1 to 5, the pocket 47 occupies a significant non-null space even in the capsule 1 before use.

[0102] In the embodiments illustrated in Figures 16 to 19 the intermediate film 4 (initially not permeable and with at least one weakened region) is in place of the distribution member 6 of Figures 1 to 5 and in particular is in contact with the food substance 15. (However, alternatively, the distribution member may be present and in that case the intermediate film 4 is attached to the side wall 21 in a position interposed between the top film 3 and the distribution member.)

[0103] Aside from the position and attachment of the intermediate film 4 (and the possible absence of the distribution member), the other features of the embodiments of Figures 16 to 19 are similar to the embodiment of Figures 1 to 5, except for what is described below.

[0104] In the embodiment of Figures 16 and 17 the intermediate film 4 is similar to what is shown in Figure 8: there is a single weakened region 410, which in particular has a weakened section 41 (formed by a non-through incision, or a pre-cut and sealed section) which forms an open line around the central region 40 in which the optical reading area 5 is located. Other embodiments of the weakened region 410 are possible, for example those shown in Figures 11 , 13, or 15.

[0105] Also depending on the distance of the intermediate film 4 from the top film 3, the intermediate film 4 may not interact (or not sufficiently interact) with the perforator 81 and therefore forming of the through-opening 44 along the weakened section 41 occurs thanks to the pressure of the water injected into the pocket 47. Therefore, the through- opening 44 (see Figure 17) is formed after the optical reading has been performed on the still whole intermediate film 4.

[0106] The embodiment of Figures 18 and 19 differs from that of Figures 16 and 17 in that the intermediate film 4 comprises a plurality of weakened regions 410 (each comprising at least one weakened or pre-cut and sealed section 41 ) and therefore a plurality of through-openings 44 are formed in it, as shown in a qualitative way in Figure 19. By arranging the weakened regions 410 in a substantially even way, this embodiment is useful for obtaining a more even distribution of the water over the food substance 15.

[0107] In this embodiment too, the through-openings 44 may be formed thanks to the pressure of the water injected into the pocket 47, not thanks to the interaction with the perforator 81 , and therefore the through-openings 44 are formed after the optical reading has been performed on the still whole intermediate film 4.

[0108] It should be noticed that in these embodiments, in which the optical reading is performed on the intermediate film 4 while it is whole, the weakened region 410 may if necessary be in the central region 40 where the optical reading area 5 is located.

[0109] In one variant not shown in the figures, the weakened region is in the peripheral attachment area 48 and the opening 44 is formed by a local detachment of the intermediate film 4 from the side wall 21 . For example, that weakened region is obtained using a weak glue to attach a portion of the peripheral attachment area 48 to the side wall 21.

[0110] Moving on now to describe the system for making a beverage according to this invention, it comprises the capsule 1 described above (in its different embodiments) and the apparatus 8 for making beverages which uses that capsule 1 .

[0111] The apparatus 8 comprises an infusion unit 85 that defines an infusion chamber 86 configured to house the capsule 1 . As already mentioned, the infusion unit 85 may extend vertically or may extend horizontally; in other, less common embodiments the infusion unit 85 may extend in a way that is different both from the vertical and horizontal. The infusion unit 85 usually comprises a first part 87 and a second part 88. The first part 87 and the second part 88 are movable relative to each other between an operating position, in which they are coupled to each other forming the infusion chamber 86, and a non-operating position, in which they are spaced apart from each other and allow insertion or removal of the capsule 1 in the infusion chamber 86. In order to open and close the infusion chamber 86, that is to say, to move the first part 87 and the second part 88 between the operating position and the non-operating position, the apparatus 8 may further comprise a movement mechanism 89 which enables control of the shifting of the first part 87 and of the second part 88 relative to each other. The movement mechanism 89 may be operated directly by the user of the apparatus 8, for example through a lever in the case of manual operation, or by pressing a button in the case of motor-driven operation, or may be fully automatic in accordance with ways of making it which are known and therefore not described in detail.

[0112] Basically, the infusion unit 85 is switchable between a non-operating mode, in which the infusion chamber 86 is open and the capsule 1 can be inserted into the infusion chamber or removed from the infusion chamber, and an operating mode, in which the infusion chamber 86 is closed and the apparatus 8 can proceed to make the beverage by dispensing water into the capsule 1 housed in the infusion chamber 86.

[0113] The apparatus 8 further comprises a perforator 81 , capable of perforating the top film 3 of the capsule 1 when the latter is housed inside the infusion chamber 86, and a water dispenser to dispense water into the capsule 1 through the top film 3 perforated by the perforator 81 .

[0114] Specifically, the water dispenser comprises a nozzle 82 which is configured to inject water into the capsule 1 . The nozzle 82 may be defined by the perforator 81 or may be joined to the perforator 81 in such a way that it is movable with the latter and enters the capsule 1 through the perforated top film 3. The water dispenser is part of water feeding means (not shown further in the figures) which comprise for example: a tank configured to contain the water to be run into the capsule 1 ; a pump which enables the desired pressure to be achieved for injecting the water, and a heater which enables the water to be brought to the temperature necessary for making the beverage.

[0115] In the embodiment illustrated, the apparatus 8 comprises a lower perforating system 83 configured to create at least one hole in the base wall 22 of the capsule 1 , in such a way as to allow the beverage to come out of the capsule 1 . The lower perforating system 83 may be fixed or movable. In the latter case, in some embodiments it may be activated by means of the movement mechanism 89 previously described, in such a way that the capsule 1 can be pierced at the base wall 22 as a result of reaching the operating position starting from the non-operating position or during the shifting between the two positions. The apparatus 8 may comprise an ejector which is configured to expel the capsule 1 from the infusion chamber 86 after the beverage has been dispensed. Even the ejector may if necessary be activated by means of the movement mechanism 89 previously described, in such a way that the capsule 1 is ejected as a result of reaching the nonoperating position starting from the operating position. In the embodiment illustrated in the figures the ejector is not present, whilst a disengaging element 84, with elastic operation, is present, configured to disengage the capsule 1 from the perforator 81 when the first part 87 and the second part 88 return to the non-operating position.

[0116] The apparatus 8 further comprises the optical recognition device 9, which has a head 91 that is joined to the perforator 81 .

[0117] Specifically, the optical recognition device 9 is configured to generate the first optical signal and to send it (by means of the head 91 ) onto the optical reading area 5 when the capsule 1 is inserted into the infusion chamber 86, and to detect a response optical signal generated in this way. In fact, the head 91 is configured to receive the second optical signal emitted by the optical recognition substance in response to the stimulation caused by the first optical signal.

[0118] The optical recognition device 9 is further configured to inspect the response optical signal and to control operation of the apparatus 8 depending on the result of that inspection. In particular, the inspection is intended to ascertain if the response optical signal has the characteristics of the emission spectrum which are known and recognisable as being those of the second optical signal described above (which and how many characteristics must be inspected may be decided on each occasion at the design stage). If the result of the inspection is positive (that is to say, there is a match) the optical recognition device 9 considers the capsule 1 recognised and controls operation of the apparatus 8 accordingly, in the known ways. If the result of the inspection is negative (that is to say, there is no match), the optical recognition device 9 considers the capsule 1 not recognised; at that point operation of the apparatus 8 may be allowed or not depending on design choices made.

[0119] In the embodiment illustrated in the figures, the optical recognition device 9 is operatively joined to the perforator 81 and comprises an emitter 92 for generating the first signal, for example an LED, an optical fibre 93 configured to direct the first signal toward the reading area 5 of the capsule 1 inserted in the infusion chamber 86, and a mirror 94, which is semi-transparent or dichroic and is positioned in such a way as to reflect at least part of the light radiation it receives from the LED, into the optical fibre 93. The optical fibre 93 is mounted inside the perforator 81 and is directly facing the reading area 5 to irradiate it with the first optical signal. The same optical fibre 93 receives the response optical signal and sends it toward a detecting sensor 95 which in the embodiment illustrated is placed behind the mirror 94. The head 91 is therefore the final part of the optical fibre 93. Specifically, the mirror 94 is a dichroic mirror which reflects the band of frequencies in which the part of interest of the first optical signal is included, and which is in contrast transparent for the band of frequencies of interest for the response optical signal.

[0120] The system is configured in such a way that: when switching from the non-operating mode to the operating mode (with the capsule 1 in the infusion chamber 86), the perforator 81 perforates the top film 3 at the pocket 47; in the operating mode, the head 91 of the optical recognition device 9 is housed in the pocket 47 and faces the optical reading area 5, such that the head 91 is positioned to send the first optical signal onto the optical reading area 5 and to receive the second optical signal; during the making of the beverage, the water is dispensed into the pocket 47 (in particular, the water is injected by the nozzle 82 into the pocket 47 through the perforation in the top film 3) and flows toward the food substance 15 through the through-opening 44 formed between the pocket 47 and the remaining portion 201 of the inner cavity 20 at the weakened region 410. After having passed through the distribution member 6 (if present), the water interacts with the food substance 15 to make the beverage, which then comes out of the hole created in the base wall 22.

[0121] Figure 22 relates to the capsule 1 according to Figures 1 to 5. In this embodiment the system is configured in such a way that the through-opening 44 is formed when switching from the non-operating mode to the operating mode. In fact, the perforator 81 pushes the central region 40 of the intermediate film 4 toward the base wall 22 (but without succeeding in perforating the central region 40 itself) and the result is shown in a simplified way in Figure 22: as a result of the thrust exerted by the perforator 81 , the central region 40 of the intermediate film 4 is locally moved away from the perforated top film 3, the weakened region 410 (in particular the weakened or pre-cut first section 41 ) has yielded, the pocket 47 has expanded and the through-opening 44 has been formed. Therefore, the force required to form the through-opening 44 is exerted by the perforator 81. It can be seen how, thanks to the through-opening 44 formed laterally allowing expansion of the pocket 47, the perforator 81 did not pass through the intermediate film 4 and the bent central region 40 (specifically, the tab 50) remained in front of the head 91 , leaving the optical reading area 5 facing the latter in the reading position. Upon recognition of the capsule 1 , the dispensing of water is started to make the beverage.

[0122] Figure 23 relates to the capsule 1 according to Figures 16 and 17, whilst Figure 24 relates to the capsule 1 according to Figures 18 and 19. In these alternative embodiments the system is configured in such a way that the through-opening 44 is formed while water is dispensed into the pocket 47: the water in the pocket 47 pushes the intermediate film 4 toward the base wall 22 and, when a threshold value for the pressure in the pocket 47 is reached, the weakened region 410 yields and the through- opening 44 is formed.

[0123] The force required to form the through-opening 44 is therefore caused by the water pressure in the pocket 47. For example, the threshold value for the pressure is between 2 bar and 5 bar.

[0124] In fact, it should be noticed that in Figures 23 and 24 the perforator 81 has perforated the top film 3 but has not penetrated inside the pocket 47 enough to break the weakened region 410 (in Figure 23) or a central weakened region 410 (in Figure 24).

[0125] The perforator 81 has not passed through the intermediate film 4 and the central region 40 remains in front of the head 91 , leaving the optical reading area 5 facing the latter in the reading position. Therefore, the head 91 is facing the optical reading area 5 and is positioned to send the first optical signal onto the optical reading area 5 and to receive the second optical signal.

[0126] Upon recognition of the capsule 1 , the dispensing of water is started to make the beverage: the water dispensed into the pocket 47 (in particular, the water injected by the nozzle 82 into the pocket 47 through the perforation in the top film 3) collects in the pocket 47 itself, causing an increase in the pressure in the pocket 47 until the weakened region 410 (or one or more of the plurality of weakened regions 410) yields, thereby forming the through-opening 44 (or multiple through-openings 44) and allowing the water to flow toward the food substance 15 through the through-opening 44 formed.

[0127] The two embodiments of the system of Figures 23 and 24 differ from the embodiment of Figure 21 substantially only in terms of the moment when the through-opening 44 is created (during an initial step of the dispensing of water, rather than when switching from the non-operating mode to the operating mode) and what exerts the force which breaks the weakened region 410 of the intermediate film 4 (the pressurised water injected into the pocket 47, rather than the perforator 81 ).

[0128] In one variant of the system of Figure 22 the capsule 1 is according to Figures 1 to 5, but the perforator 81 does not penetrate inside the pocket 47 enough to break the weakened region 410. However, the pocket 47 may expand (thanks to the flexibility of the intermediate film 4) to house the head 91 of the optical recognition device 9.

[0129] In this case too, the perforator 81 does not pass through the intermediate film 4 and the bent central region 40 remains in front of the head 91 , leaving the optical reading area 5 facing the latter in the reading position. The head 91 is facing the optical reading area 5 and is positioned to send the first optical signal onto the optical reading area 5 and to receive the second optical signal.

[0130] Upon recognition of the capsule 1 , the dispensing of water is started to make the beverage. Similarly to what occurs for Figures 23 and 24, the water dispensed into the pocket collects in the pocket 47 itself, causing an increase in the pressure in the pocket 47 until the weakened region 410 yields, thereby forming the through-opening 44 and allowing the water to flow toward the food substance 15 through the through-opening 44 formed.

[0131] This invention is useful because, on one hand, it makes it possible to avoid disadvantages which could render the optical reading area in the capsule unavailable for reading by the optical recognition device and, on the other hand, it makes it possible to ensure that during the making of the beverage the water effectively reaches the food substance by following the path established inside the capsule.

[0132] The invention described above may be modified and adapted in several ways without thereby departing from the scope of the attached claims.

[0133] All details may be substituted with other technically equivalent elements and the materials used, as well as the shapes and dimensions of the various components, may vary according to requirements.

Claims

CLAIMS1. An optically recognisable capsule (1 ) for making a beverage, wherein the capsule (1) comprises: a main body (2) that is substantially cup-shaped and has a side wall (21 ), a base wall (22), and an inner cavity (20), the side wall (21 ) extending between a first edge (25), which defines an access opening (26) to the inner cavity (20), and a second edge (27), the base wall (22) being connected to the second edge (27) and closing the main body (2) at said second edge (27); a food substance (15) which enables the beverage to be made by passing a flow of water through the food substance (15), the food substance (15) being in the inner cavity (20); a top film (3), attached to the main body (2) at the first edge (25) and closing the access opening (26); an intermediate film (4) that is distinct from the top film (3) and is positioned between the top film (3) and the food substance (15), the intermediate film (4) being attached to the top film (3) and / or the main body (2) along a peripheral attachment area (48), the intermediate film (4) comprising, in a central region (40), an optical reading area (5) provided with an optical recognition substance which, when stimulated by a first predetermined optical signal, emits a second optical signal with known and recognisable characteristics, the optical reading area (5) facing the top film (3); wherein the top film (3) is configured to form an inlet wall for water into the capsule (1), and the base wall (22) is configured to form an outlet wall for the beverage out of the capsule (1 ); wherein the central region (40) of the intermediate film (4) is not attached to the top film (3), so that a pocket (47) is defined between the top film (3) and at least the central region (40) of the intermediate film (4), the intermediate film (4) separating the pocket (47) from a remaining portion (201 ) of the inner cavity (20), the food substance (15) being in the remaining portion (201 ) of the inner cavity (20); wherein, upon perforation of the top film (3) at the pocket (47), the pocket (47) is intended to house a head (91 ) of an optical recognition device (9), the head (91 ) being configured to send the first optical signal onto the optical reading area (5) and to receive the second optical signal emitted by the optical recognition substance inresponse to the stimulation caused by the first optical signal, and the pocket (47) is intended to receive water dispensed by a water dispenser; wherein initially the intermediate film (4) is not permeable and does not allow a passage of water from the pocket (47) to the remaining portion (201 ) of the inner cavity (20); wherein the intermediate film (4) has at least one weakened region (410) that is configured to form a through-opening (44) between the pocket (47) and the remaining portion (201 ) of the inner cavity (20) due to an action of a force which, in use, pushes the intermediate film (4) toward the base wall (22); whereby, in use, the optical reading area (5) in the pocket (47) is read by the optical recognition device (9) and the water dispensed into the pocket (47) by the water dispenser flows toward the food substance (15) through the through-opening (44) formed after the action of said force.

2. The capsule (1 ) according to claim 1 , wherein the at least one weakened region (410) comprises at least one weakened section (41 ) that is formed by a non-through incision in the intermediate film (4), said non-through incision being an area for preferential breakage of the intermediate film (4).

3. The capsule (1 ) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the at least one weakened region (410) comprises at least one pre-cut section (41 ) that is formed by a through-cut in the intermediate film (4), wherein the through-cut is initially sealed and opens upon the action of said force.

4. The capsule (1 ) according to claim 3, wherein the through-cut defines a first flap (431 ) and a second flap (432), at least the first flap (431 ) being attached to the top film (3) and having a mechanical attachment strength that is less than a mechanical attachment strength of the peripheral attachment area (48), said first flap (431 ) being an area for preferential detachment of the intermediate film (4) from the top film (3).

5. The capsule (1 ) according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the at least one weakened and / or pre-cut section (41 ) is part of a perimeter line (45) which surrounds the central region (40) and which is interposed between the peripheral attachmentarea (48) and the central region (40), the perimeter line (45) in particular being substantially circular or substantially rectangular or substantially triangular.

6. The capsule (1 ) according to claim 5, wherein said perimeter line (45) comprises at least one first section, which is the at least one weakened and / or pre-cut section (41 ), and at least one second section (42) where the intermediate film (4) is attached to the top film (3), said sections being consecutive.

7. The capsule (1 ) according to claim 5 or 6, wherein the intermediate film (4) is attached to the top film (3) along the entire perimeter line (45), with a removable attachment along the at least one weakened and / or pre-cut section (41 ).

8. The capsule (1 ) according to any one of claims 5 to 7, the perimeter line (45) comprising the at least one weakened and / or pre-cut section (41 ) or a plurality of consecutive weakened and / or pre-cut sections (41 ), wherein the formed through- opening (44) delimits a tab (50) which comprises the optical reading area (5) and which is flexible relative to a remaining portion of the intermediate film (4).

9. The capsule (1 ) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the intermediate film (4) is coupled to the top film (3) and has a mechanical perforation resistance that is greater than the top film (3), the weakened region (410) being configured to form the through-opening (44) after the perforation of the top film (3) and before the action of said force can perforate the intermediate film (4) in the central region (40).

10. The capsule (1 ) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the intermediate film (4) is spaced apart from the top film (3) and is attached to the side wall (21 ) of the main body (2) along the peripheral attachment area (48), so that the pocket (47) is defined between the top film (3), the intermediate film (4) and a section of the side wall (21 ).

11. The capsule (1 ) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the central region (40) of the intermediate film (4) is centred relative to the side wall (21 ), and the weakened region (410) is positioned laterally relative to the optical reading area (5),which is to say it forms part of an annular region (49) surrounding the central region (40).

12. The capsule (1 ) according to any one of claims 1 to 11 , wherein the optical recognition substance is present in the entirety of the intermediate film (4).

13. A system for making a beverage, comprising a capsule (1 ) according to any one of claims 1 to 12 and an apparatus (8) for making beverages, the apparatus (8) comprising: an infusion unit (85) that defines an infusion chamber (86), the infusion chamber (86) being configured to house the capsule (1 ); a perforator (81 ) capable of perforating the top film (3) of the capsule (1 ), when the capsule (1 ) is housed inside the infusion chamber (86); a water dispenser to dispense water into the capsule (1 ) through the perforated top film (3); and an optical recognition device (9) having a head (91 ) that is joined to the perforator (81 ); wherein the infusion unit (85) is switchable between a non-operating mode, in which the infusion chamber (86) is open and the capsule (1 ) can be inserted into the infusion chamber (86) or removed from the infusion chamber (86), and an operating mode, in which the infusion chamber (86) is closed and the apparatus (8) can proceed to make the beverage by dispensing water into the capsule (1 ) housed in the infusion chamber (86), the system being configured in such a way that: when switching from the non-operating mode to the operating mode, the perforator (81 ) perforates the top film (3) at the pocket (47); in the operating mode, the head (91 ) of the optical recognition device (9) is housed in the pocket (47) and faces the optical reading area (5), such that the head (91 ) is positioned to send the first optical signal onto the optical reading area (5) and to receive the second optical signal; and during the making of the beverage, water is dispensed into the pocket (47) and flows toward the food substance (15) through the through-opening (44) formedbetween the pocket (47) and the remaining portion (201 ) of the internal cavity (20) at the weakened region (410).

14. The system for making a beverage according to claim 13, configured in such a way that the through-opening (44) is formed when switching from the non-operating mode to the operating mode, wherein the perforator (81 ) pushes the central region (40) of the intermediate film (4) toward the base wall (22), said force being exerted by the perforator (81 ).

15. The system for making a beverage according to claim 13, configured in such a way that the through-opening (44) is formed while water is dispensed into the pocket (47), wherein the water in the pocket (47) pushes the intermediate film (4) toward the base wall (22), said force being caused by a water pressure in the pocket (47).

Images