Functional capsule-lid couplable to a container for mixing products, processing machine for product mixtures, method for operating the machine, and system

Abstract

The invention relates to a functional capsule-lid couplable to a container for mixing products, preferably food products, to a processing machine for product mixtures, to a method for operating the machine, and to a processing system for mixtures. The capsule contains at least one product, preferably at least one product or ingredient, preferably food, which may be a dispersed or compact solid, or a liquid, wherein the capsule in turn serves as a lid for closing the opening of a receptacle or container that contains another product or ingredient, or is capable of being filled with another product or ingredient before or after placing the capsule-lid on the container, preferably a liquid ingredient or product, for example, water, although it could also be a gel or a cream. Said capsule is used in a particular mixing machine according to a specific method.

Description

[0001] FUNCTIONAL CAPSULE-LID ATTACHABLE TO A PRODUCT MIXING CONTAINER, PRODUCT MIXING PROCESSING MACHINE, MACHINE OPERATION METHOD AND SYSTEM

[0002] DESCRIPTION

[0003] OBJECT OF THE INVENTION

[0004] The invention, a functional capsule-lid attachable to a container for mixing products, preferably food products, a product mixing processing machine, a method of operating the machine, and a mixing processing system, relates, firstly, to a capsule containing at least one product, preferably at least one product or ingredient, preferably food-related, although it may also be cosmetic or medicinal, and may be solid, dispersed or compact, or liquid, the capsule-lid serving in turn to close the mouth of a container that includes another product or ingredient inside, or is capable of being filled with another product or ingredient before or after placing the capsule-lid on the container, preferably a liquid ingredient or product, for example, water, although it could also be a gel or a cream.Alternatively, the product or ingredient may not be expressly food-related, such as vitamin supplements, sports products, medical products or cosmetics, among others.

[0005] The invention also relates to a product mixing machine equipped with means for simultaneously or subsequently placing the capsule-lid as a container closure upon opening the capsule-lid, as well as means for opening the capsule-lid that ensure the contents of the capsule-lid fall into the container. Furthermore, by means of agitation included in the machine, the products are mixed after the container is sealed with the capsule-lid, achieving a homogeneous mixture of the ingredients contained in the capsule-lid and the container. The invention also relates to a method of operating the aforementioned machine and to a product mixing system for products composed of at least two ingredients.

[0006] The field of application of the present invention is the product dispensing and mixing industry sector.

[0007] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION With reference to the current state of the art, it should be noted that, although single-dose capsule-shaped containers are known in the market, as well as products made from the mixture of two or more ingredients and marketed packaged in a container, at least as far as the applicant is concerned, there is no known element or machine that has characteristics like those of the capsule-lid, the machine, the method and the system that are the subject of the present invention.

[0008] Specifically, capsule-type containers for a specific dose of product that exist on the market are usually designed either to be opened beforehand and the contents poured out, without serving as a lid for the container into which the contents are poured, or to be inserted into a machine and infuse their contents, without also being able to be used as a lid, or they are items of complicated manufacture so that, once the capsule is incorporated as a lid, it breaks at some point and the contents of the capsule spill into the container.

[0009] No capsules are known that, in addition to functioning as a lid and as a container for at least one ingredient or component, have functional characteristics that, due to their construction or configuration, contribute to their use in a machine that, after opening the capsule-lid, allows the entire contents of the capsule to be poured into the container, closes the capsule-lid on the container, and facilitates the mixing or dissolution of the contents of the capsule-lid with or in the contents of the container (contents poured into the container or contents before or after closing the container) by rotating and / or counter-rotating the container itself, thus achieving the mixing of the contents, products, or ingredients of the capsule-lid and the container.

[0010] Prior art documents W02006048866 and US4785931 describe closure devices for containers. These devices contain an ingredient housed inside and separated from the outside by a tearable membrane. However, if the membrane is externally contaminated, there is a risk of product contamination upon rupture, and fragments of the film may fall into the mixture. Furthermore, both documents describe a closure device that requires human intervention to break the tearable membrane. This involves applying force to an element to activate a mechanism that ruptures the membrane, and depending on the user's circumstances, activation may be difficult. Additionally, these closure devices lack internal mixing protrusions, which will hinder the mixing of the product contained within the closure device with the liquid product in the container.Additionally, document W02006048866 does not allow consumption of the mixture without removing the closing device.

[0011] The present invention features a capsule-lid that allows the removal of the membrane or film without risk of contamination of the mixture to be prepared, and does not require human force for its opening, while also allowing the mixing of the mixture due to the arrangement of internal protrusions.

[0012] EXPLANATION OF THE INVENTION

[0013] The present invention relates, firstly, to a capsule-lid attachable to a food mixing container according to claim 1. Optional and alternative features of the capsule-lid are included in claims 2 to 13. The capsule-lid of the invention is a functional product, meaning that it has been designed primarily for ease, utility, and convenience of use. Furthermore, the capsule, in addition to containing at least one ingredient or product for mixing, acts as a lid for mixing within the container, hence its designation in this description as a capsule-lid, and also facilitates mixing due to its protruding configuration.

[0014] Thus, the capsule-lid, containing at least one product or ingredient, preferably a food product in powder or liquid form, comprises, among other features, a body with a cavity and an opening for accessing the cavity, defining a volume to contain the food product. It may incorporate at least one internal protrusion, preferably two, extending from the body into the cavity. These protrusions, as explained below, facilitate the homogeneous mixing of the at least one product contained in the capsule with the at least one product contained in a container, such as a glass, upon which the capsule-lid is placed. The perimeter of the opening includes coupling means for attaching the capsule-lid to a container, specifically to its mouth.Furthermore, the opening of the capsule-lid body is sealed with a removable film, preferably by heat sealing, attached at least to the perimeter of the opening. For removal, the film preferably includes a side tab along its perimeter. The capsule-lid configuration of the present invention allows the capsule itself, containing at least one food ingredient or product (in solid, dispersed, or compacted form, or liquid), to act as a lid for a container. This allows for mixing the product contained in the capsule-lid with at least one liquid product placed inside the container. This configuration, with its removable film, allows the film to be removed, or the capsule-lid to be "peeled," so that the product inside falls into a container or package without risk of contamination, as it is not necessary to break or puncture the film to access its contents.Thus, removable film implies that the film detaches without breaking from the capsule-lid.

[0015] Alternatively, the body comprises a wing, projection, or rim around the opening, in which case the means for attaching the cap to a container are arranged on the perimeter of said wing or projection, thus coupling the cap to the mouth of the container. In the case of the body with a wing or projection, the removable film may be attached either to the perimeter of the opening or to the wing or projection. Furthermore, the removable film is attached to the entire perimeter of the cavity opening and, additionally, either to the entire outer perimeter of the wing or only to certain points on the outer perimeter of the wing, thus achieving a double concentric seal. This spot sealing on the outer perimeter of the wing ensures perfect positioning of the film on the cap while also facilitating peeling.

[0016] The capsule-lid of the invention may have the perimeter of the opening at the same level, the same height above the horizontal, as the outer perimeter of the wing, or the perimeter of the opening at a different level, a different height above the horizontal, than the outer perimeter of the wing. In the latter case, the outer perimeter of the wing is at a higher level, above the horizontal, than the perimeter of the opening. The body of the capsule-lid has a vertical axis, and the perimeter wing may be perpendicular to this vertical axis or not, such that the perimeter wing is inclined with respect to this axis, with the perimeter of the wing located below the opening of the capsule-lid body, that is, further away from the body.

[0017] In particular, the capsule-lid attachable to an ingredient mixing container, the object of the invention, has a body with a cavity and an opening with a geometric center, which is crossed by a vertical axis, which determine a volume to contain at least one product, preferably food, having:

[0018] - At least one protuberance, preferably two, emerging from the interior of the body into the cavity,

[0019] Coupling means on the perimeter of the opening for attaching to a container, and

[0020] A removable film attached to the body, preferably around the perimeter of the opening, covers the cavity opening, sealing it hermetically to prevent the food product from falling out and to prevent contamination of the capsule surface covered by the film. This film also allows for the application of a protective atmosphere to the capsule to extend the shelf life of its contents.

[0021] The vertical axis that crosses the geometric center of the shape that determines the opening will be the center of rotation of the capsule cap body, and in particular if this is a rotating body, such as a hemisphere, a cylinder or a cone, among others.

[0022] In certain circumstances the capsule-lid may not include any protrusions, although the inclusion of at least one promotes the mixing of the products and also reduces mixing time.

[0023] As mentioned, the body may incorporate a wing, projection, or rim around the opening, with a geometric center that may or may not coincide with the geometric center of the opening. The film covering the opening may then be attached to this wing or projection. The fact that the cavity opening is inscribed within the wing, projection, or rim ensures that the contents of the cavity always fall inside the container when the film is removed, preventing spillage.

[0024] When referring to the cavity, the description preferably refers to a laminar body, understood as formed by a body of at least one sheet, which defines a cavity to contain a product, liquid or solid, preferably in powder form.

[0025] The at least one protrusion, which can be vertical or inclined, of the capsule-lid can have different configurations, for example:

[0026] - At least one elongation or indentation, vertical or inclined, emerging from the body of the capsule-lid or upper laminar body into the cavity, preferably conical or conical in shape,

[0027] - At least one vertical or inclined indentation or elongation, triangular or pyramidal in shape with a triangular base, emerging into the interior of the cavity,

[0028] - At least one elongation or indentation with a semicircular cross-section, or

[0029] - At least one elongation, or indentation, flat, straight or right-angled, for example, a rigid wing, like a fin, or preferably, for example, two or four elongations, emerging into the cavity from the body of the cap-cap, for example, like blades, determining two or four spaces or gaps between the aforementioned protrusions.

[0030] The aforementioned protrusion, which can have different configurations as previously mentioned, can extend vertically from the body of the capsule-lid, understood as perpendicular to the film that closes the opening of said capsule-lid, or it can extend at an angle from the body of the capsule-lid, understood as forming an angle other than 90° with the film that closes the opening of said capsule-lid. Likewise, the protrusion in the form of an elongation should be interpreted as an extension or stretching into the body of the capsule-lid. On the other hand, the protrusion in the form of an indentation should be interpreted as something that enters the interior of the cavity, either in the form of an elongation as described above or in any other way, for example, by adding material to the cavity or as a result of a molding process.

[0031] The capsule-lid that is the subject of the invention may incorporate one or more of the aforementioned protrusions, these having the same or different configurations among themselves.

[0032] Thus, both types of protrusions are preferably defined by the material's own deformation, creating corresponding recesses on the outer part of the cavity body with shapes complementary to the protrusions. These recesses can be used by means incorporated in a mixing machine to hold, orient, or move the capsule-lid. This construction would occur when the capsule is manufactured by thermoforming, thus creating hollow protrusions as recesses on the outside of the body as described, and with protrusions inside the body cavity. Alternatively, the capsules could be manufactured by injection molding, in which case the protrusions could be hollow or solid.Therefore, a capsule-lid made by thermoforming will have hollows or recesses on its outer surface that correspond to the internal protrusions, whereas if the capsule-lid is made by injection molding, the outer surface can be uniform, without hollows or recesses, although it may have internal protrusions, preferably in the form of fins. The perimeter of the opening and the perimeter of the flange or peripheral projection determine a shape that can be circular or polygonal, such as triangular, rectangular, square, etc. These shapes can be the same or different; for example, the opening can have a rectangular perimeter and the peripheral flange a circular perimeter, or both can be circular, or one triangular and the other rectangular. They will preferably be circular.In any case, the shape of the perimeter of the opening or the wing or projection will be complementary to the shape of the perimeter of the mouth of the container on which the opening or the wing or perimeter projection will be fitted.

[0033] Thus, the capsule-lid that is the object of the invention may have a polygonal or circular shape at the perimeter of the lower opening of the cavity, while the perimeter of the wing / peripheral projection may also determine a polygonal or circular shape, which may or may not be the same shape.

[0034] Furthermore, the capsule-lid body that defines the cavity typically presents a semi-spherical, cylindrical, or frustoconical shape from the outside, among others, with the opening's perimeter forming a circular or polygonal shape. Similarly, for example, the capsule-lid body may have a five- or six-pointed star-shaped cross-section extending to the opening, so the container's mouth should also have a complementary shape to ensure a proper fit. Alternatively, if the capsule-lid has a wing, the perimeter of this wing may or may not also be star-shaped, coinciding with the mouth of the container that will fit the capsule-lid.

[0035] The materials of the capsule-lid body and the container or receptacle may or may not be the same, although preferably they will be different, one more rigid and the other more flexible to facilitate the coupling between them when the capsule-lid is placed in the container, and at the same time make said coupling more airtight, preventing leaks between them.

[0036] The center of the cavity opening, that is, the center of the geometric shape inscribed in the perimeter of the opening, and the center of the wing or peripheral projection, that is, of the geometric shape inscribed in the perimeter of the projection or peripheral wing, may or may not be on the same axis perpendicular to the plane comprising the wing or peripheral projection, so that they may coincide or be displaced from each other, that is, on two parallel axes, both axes being perpendicular to the plane comprising the wing or peripheral projection.

[0037] Likewise, if the shapes of the opening and the perimeter flange are identical and their centers lie on the same axis, as previously mentioned, the distance between the perimeter of the flange and the perimeter of the opening remains constant around the entire perimeter. This distance is also constant if the shape is circular. For example, if the opening is rectangular and the perimeter flange is circular, and both centers lie on the same axis, the distances between the sides of the rectangular opening and the perimeter of the flange will be constant, although they will vary depending on the side of the rectangle. In these cases, the capsule-lid will be symmetrical at least with respect to a plane perpendicular to the plane containing the perimeter flange or projection, and which includes the center of the opening and the center of the flange or projection that lie on the same axis.However, on the contrary, if the geometric centers are not on the same axis perpendicular to the plane containing the wing or perimeter projection, the distance between the perimeter of the opening and the perimeter of the wing will not be constant, regardless of the shape of the opening and the perimeter wing.

[0038] The coupling means of the capsule-lid, arranged on the perimeter of the wing or peripheral projection, preferably have an open semicircular shape or peripheral groove on their lower part to fit into the mouth of a container, so that said semicircular shape or groove must be complementary with the mouth of the container, allowing an adjustment between both components that prevents the loss of any of the ingredients during the mixing of these.

[0039] Alternatively, the coupling means have a thread that allows them to be screwed onto a container.

[0040] As mentioned, the removable film can be attached to the surface of the wing or perimeter projection existing between the perimeters of the opening and the wing or projection, or to the perimeter of the opening itself.

[0041] Alternatively, the anterior capsule-lid consists of two separate pieces: a lower piece comprising the perimeter wing / protrusion and an upper piece comprising the cavity and the film. Complementary coupling means are provided between the two pieces, for example, rails designed for this purpose.

[0042] In another alternative capsule-lid, the body may have around the perimeter and above the opening an annular projection that will be used to hold the capsule-lid, primarily by a machine when said capsule-lid is inserted into a suitable machine.

[0043] As previously mentioned, to mix the capsule contents with the liquid product already or to be placed in the container, both are placed in a mixing machine, which is the subject of the invention. This machine comprises a base with a mixing chamber, upon which the container rests. The machine can be portable or part of a vending system that accepts coins, banknotes, cards, or other means of payment. A key feature is that the machine's internal conduits are not contaminated by different products, resulting in reduced maintenance. Furthermore, the machine comprises:

[0044] Gripping means for holding a capsule-lid as described above, i.e., with a hollow body having a cavity and a lower opening, preferably surrounded by a wing or projection, although not necessarily, which is sealed by a film, comprising inside the cavity at least one product, preferably food-grade,

[0045] Optional capsule-lid orientation and / or displacement means to orient and / or displace the capsule-lid in a specific position prior to film removal,

[0046] A capsule-lid opening system with means for removing the film attached to the capsule-lid,

[0047] Optional means for moving said capsule-lid from the film removal position to its position on the container,

[0048] Means for securing and coupling the capsule-lid onto the opening of the container, and

[0049] A stirring mechanism that rotates the closed container assembly with the capsule-lid for mixing the ingredients.

[0050] The means for moving the capsule-lid and the means for securing and coupling it to the mouth of the container can, alternatively, be combined into a perimeter support for the capsule-lid that has a diameter slightly smaller than the diameter of the capsule-lid wing so that the wing rests on the perimeter support.

[0051] With this machine, combined with the capsule-lid configuration, 100% of the solid product, preferably powder, and / or the liquid product contained in the capsule-lid falls into the container, thus ensuring that all ingredients reach the end consumer, with 0% waste. This is also achieved through thorough mixing with the liquid ingredient in the container due to the container's rotation and / or counter-rotation within the machine. The rotation and / or counter-rotation sequences may include pauses between them. This mixing or processing machine for compound products based on mixtures constitutes a second object of the present invention according to claim 11.

[0052] In the construction of a capsule-lid with a rim or perimeter wing, there is a space between the cavity opening and the rim or perimeter projection of the capsule body that prevents the contents from spilling out of the container when the film is removed from the capsule-lid.

[0053] Likewise, capsule-lids that have the center of the opening off-center with respect to the center of the wing or peripheral protrusion, that is, on different axes perpendicular to the plane in which the wing or protrusion is inscribed, this plane coinciding with the plane in which the opening of the cavity of the capsule-lid body is inscribed, are forced to be introduced into the machine in a single position and direction, thus allowing the film removal system of the capsule-lid to operate correctly on said film.

[0054] In those capsule-lids that do not have the opening center off-center with respect to the center of the wing or perimeter protrusion, that is, those that are symmetrical, it is convenient that the machine has clamping means that orient and position the capsule-lid so that the means of removing the film can act on it.

[0055] Preferably, the film removal means incorporated in the machine allow the film to be withdrawn in the opposite direction to the capsule's insertion (180°) as the capsule is positioned over the container, so that the capsule's contents fall by gravity into the container located beneath the capsule-lid. Alternatively, the film could be withdrawn in a direction other than the opposite direction to insertion, for example, laterally from left to right or vice versa. Alternatively, the film removal means may include cutting means, for example, a blade that cuts the film. Once cut, the film can be grasped with additional means, for example, similar to tweezers, and completely removed.

[0056] As mentioned, the ingredient, or ingredients, contained inside the capsule-cap can be solid or liquid. If it is solid, it is preferably a powdered compound that can be either dispersed (with loose granules) or compacted (with tightly packed granules). Compacting the ingredient, or ingredients, allows for a greater quantity of powder to be placed inside the capsule-cap, or for the cavity dimensions to be reduced. Additionally, it prevents the powder from dispersing, and therefore being lost, as it falls by gravity into the container.

[0057] Once the capsule-lid is positioned over the container opening, the container is closed over the capsule-lid using fastening and coupling means. These fastening and coupling means create an interaction between themselves and the container opening. This closure or coupling is preferably achieved by pressure, whereby the fastening and coupling means press the capsule-lid, which, after the film has been removed, now acts solely as a lid, against the container opening, or they press and / or lift the container internally to fit into the capsule-lid's coupling means. In this example, the coupling means on the capsule-lid have a groove, preferably around the perimeter, into which the container opening is inserted.

[0058] Alternatively, these fastening and coupling means allow the capsule-lid to be screwed onto the container, for which both the container opening and the capsule-lid coupling means have threads. For this screwing, either the capsule-lid is held stationary and the container is rotated while being raised, or the container is held stationary and the capsule-lid is rotated while being lowered onto the container.

[0059] Furthermore, preferably before sealing the container with the cap, a second food product or ingredient, preferably a liquid such as water, is introduced into the container by pouring or injecting it. This introduction of the liquid product is carried out using injection means located on the machine, which supplies the liquid from a reservoir. Alternatively, the container can also be placed in the machine with the liquid already inside.

[0060] Alternatively, when the capsule-lid has a wing or protrusion, an injection point for the liquid product is provided on the surface between the opening and the wing's perimeter, outside the cavity where the ingredient is added. This point, for example, a small hole, allows the product to be injected into the container after the capsule-lid is sealed, using a needle that passes through this hole. This hole may be open, formed by cuts in the wing or perimeter protrusion of the capsule-lid, or incorporated into a silicone valve. All these options allow the insertion of a needle through the capsule-lid to reach the inside of the container. This hole can also be used to insert a straw, allowing the mixture to be consumed without separating the capsule-lid from the container.

[0061] Alternatively, the body itself, with its cavity and opening (closed by the film), may incorporate a weakened area or a sealed area made of a material other than the capsule-lid, allowing an injector to pierce it for introducing liquid into the container after the capsule-lid and container assembly is closed, or for inserting a straw. Alternatively, the body may incorporate a hollow protrusion made of the same material as the capsule-lid, slightly elongated with its closed end. This closed end may be removable, either manually or with cutting tools, to access the contents inside the capsule-lid and container assembly after mixing. In another alternative, this elongated protrusion could incorporate a plug that allows it to be opened and closed, enabling drinking and, by extension, access to the capsule-lid and container assembly.If a hole is provided for inserting a straw, it should be slightly larger than the straw's diameter. Alternatively, another opening should be provided in the cavity to allow air to enter while the user drinks through the straw inserted into the capsule-lid. If the capsule-lid has an elongated, hollow protrusion through which the user can drink, another opening should also be provided in the cavity for air intake.

[0062] In any case, once the container and lid assembly is closed, the mixing machine rotates and / or counter-rotates the assembly, preferably from the base of the container and along its axis of rotation. Alternatively, the assembly could be rotated and counter-rotated from the lid, but if the lid has centers of the opening and the flange or protrusion on offset axes, an eccentric rotation of the assembly would occur, which is not entirely desirable. However, if the lid is symmetrical, with the geometric centers of the opening and the flange on the same vertical axis, the rotation of the lid and container assembly could be driven from the lid or from the base supporting the container.

[0063] Based on the above description, different constructive alternatives for capsule-lids are possible:

[0064] - Symmetrical capsule-lid (geometric centers of the opening and the perimeter wing coincide, thus being located on the same vertical axis) and the axis of rotation of the machine coincides with the vertical axis of the capsule-lid, so that the assembly is centered when it rotates and counter-rotates, preventing vibrations.

[0065] - Non-symmetrical capsule-lid (geometric centers of the opening and the perimeter wing do not coincide, thus being located on different vertical axes) and the axis of rotation of the machine coincides with the vertical axis of the container or receptacle, so that when the assembly rotates and counter-rotates, some vibrations may occur.

[0066] - The capsule-lid may or may not be symmetrical, but the machine's axis of rotation does not coincide with the vertical axis of the container or receptacle, so both are off-center, producing more vibrations when the assembly rotates or counter-rotates than in the previous cases, which could be desirable to generate more turbulence that contributes to the mixing of the products.

[0067] The rotations and / or counter-rotations of the assembly cause its contents to rotate and collide with the inner protrusions of the capsule-lid, ensuring that the contents of the capsule-lid are mixed with the liquid in the container. The centrifugal force created by the rotation of the assembly allows the mixture created in the container to invade the spaces furthest from the axis of rotation, forcing the mixture to reach the aforementioned protrusions of the capsule-lid as it rises inside the assembly. These rotations and / or counter-rotations can be interrupted by pauses to further promote mixing and generate turbulence.

[0068] The machine may also include a heating and cooling module to introduce the mixing liquid at a specific temperature, depending on the requirements of the mixture's components. This heating and cooling module features a cooling unit connected to a storage tank for the mixing liquid, preferably water, and can supply it continuously or intermittently. Like the cooling unit, the heating unit is also connected to the liquid tank and can supply it continuously or intermittently. The water temperature is programmable either by the user or via code instructions embedded in the capsule. The machine's liquid tank is removable for external filling and is equipped with sensors that indicate its water level. This prevents equipment malfunction or mixing errors if insufficient water is detected.

[0069] In addition to sealing the container with the capsule-lid, pressure devices could be considered in the machine to force contact between the capsule and the container, minimizing possible liquid leaks that could occur due to the rotation of the container and capsule-lid.

[0070] The capsule-lid may include, either on its outer surface or on the film covering the opening, a code, such as a barcode, BIDI, QR code, or other type of code, containing instructions that will be read by a reading device incorporated into the processing machine. After reading the code, the machine, equipped with a control unit with storage and memory, will execute instructions for the correct mixing of the products. For example, these instructions will determine the amount of liquid or liquids to be introduced into the container, the temperature of said liquid or liquids, as well as the rotation time and number of rotations and / or counter-rotations necessary to achieve optimal mixing, and the temperature of the liquid product. These conditions will depend on the contents of the capsule-lid and its composition or shape.The machine's reading devices will be able to determine whether the capsule-cap code is valid for use in the machine or whether, on the contrary, the machine should prevent its use.

[0071] The machine's control unit can be wirelessly connected to various devices, such as mobile phones or tablets, the cloud, servers, etc. The machine can also incorporate facial, voice, digital, or keyboard recognition to identify the user. Once the user identifies themselves using one of these methods, the machine will detect them and prepare their order according to their preferences, taking into account any potential food intolerances. The machine can thus adapt to different users, maintain a stock of various products, and place orders for them.

[0072] A third object of the invention is a method of operating the processing machine according to claim 12. Optional and alternative features of the method are included in claims 13 to 14.

[0073] Specifically, the method of operation of a product mixing processing machine, which processes, by at least mixing and dispensing, products composed of two or more ingredients, comprises a step of introducing at least one liquid ingredient into a container and further the following steps:

[0074] - Securing a capsule-lid with a hollow body and a bottom opening sealed by a film attached to the hollow body and comprising within it at least one food ingredient,

[0075] The capsule-lid is moved until it is positioned over the container placed in the machine,

[0076] - Opening of the capsule-lid with means for removing the film attached to the capsule-lid for pouring at least one ingredient contained therein into the container,

[0077] - Attaching the capsule-lid to the container, forming a closed mixing assembly, and

[0078] - Agitation by means of at least one rotation and / or counter-rotation of the closed mixing assembly in at least one direction of rotation.

[0079] Alternatively, the displacement of the capsule-lid over the container is carried out at the same time as the removal of the film from said capsule-lid or vice versa.

[0080] The introduction of the liquid compound into the container can be done either before or after the film is removed. If it is done after the film is removed, the introduction of the at least one liquid ingredient into the container is preferably done through the capsule-lid. A fourth object of the present invention is a system for processing mixtures of products composed of at least two ingredients according to claim 15. Specifically, the system comprises: a machine as described above, a capsule-lid with a hollow body and a lower opening sealed by a film attached to the hollow body and containing at least one food ingredient, and a container with at least one liquid food ingredient onto which the capsule-lid is fitted after the film is removed.

[0081] DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0082] To complete the description of the present invention and to facilitate the understanding of its characteristics, a set of figures is included as an integral part thereof, with an illustrative and non-limiting character.

[0083] Figure 1 shows a schematic side section view of a first example of the capsule-lid that is the subject of the invention, specifically an example with a perimeter flange for snap closure, being represented on the mouth of the container for which it is intended.

[0084] Figure 2 shows a schematic side section view of another example of the capsule-lid of the invention, in this case with a perimeter flange for threaded closure.

[0085] Figures 3 and 4 show schematic views of the profile of respective examples of the capsule-lid with a semi-spherical cavity in Figure 3 and a rectangular cavity in Figure 4, both of which have a perimeter gripping ring.

[0086] Figure 5 shows a schematic side section view of another example of the capsule-lid, in this case symmetrical, so that the wing or perimeter projection shares a center with the opening.

[0087] Figures 6 and 7 show schematic plan views of an example of the capsule-lid with the off-center cavity and lateral retaining tab on the lower closing film, with figure 7 showing a projection of the laminar body material with an indentation or elongation that partially exposes the tab.

[0088] Figures 8-A and 8-B show two views, in side section and plan respectively, of an example of the capsule-lid with the cavity provided with protrusions formed by cone-shaped elongations that emerge from the central area of ​​the same.

[0089] Figures 9-A and 9-B show two views, in side section and plan respectively, of another example of the capsule-lid, in this case with the cavity equipped with protrusions that emerge from the side walls and have triangular shapes.

[0090] Figures 10-A and 10-B show two views, in side section and plan respectively, of another example of the capsule-lid, in this case with the cavity provided with a combination of protrusions formed by cone-shaped elongations that emerge from the central area of ​​the same and protrusions that emerge from the side walls and have triangular shapes.

[0091] Figures 11-A and 11-B show two side and plan views of an example of the capsule-lid with the container, where the container also has protrusions on the inside.

[0092] Figure 12-A shows a schematic cross-sectional view of an example of the capsule-lid formed by two independent parts where the cavity fits into rails on the base with the perimeter flange.

[0093] Figure 12-B shows an enlarged view of detail A indicated in figure 12-A, which allows you to appreciate the base rails for fixing the cavity.

[0094] Figure 13 shows a schematic view of the profile of an example of the gripping means provided by the mixing machine of the invention to place the capsule-lid in the container.

[0095] Figures 14-A, 14-B and 14-C show respective schematic views of the capsule-lid placement phases in the container with the machine gripping means shown in Figure 13.

[0096] Figures 15-A and 15-B show schematic views of the phases of removing the sealing film from the capsule-lid when it is placed in the container with a first example of means of securing said film, specifically a wedge stop, which the mixing machine of the invention has.

[0097] Figures 16-A and 16-B show schematic views of the phases of removing the sealing film from the capsule-lid when it is placed in the container with a second example of means of holding said film, in this case a clamp type, provided in the mixing machine.

[0098] Figures 17-A and 17-B show schematic views of an example of the means used by the mixing machine to agitate the assembly by holding the cap and rotating it. Specifically, a fork is inserted into the recesses of the cap's protrusions. The figures are shown with the fork both in place and without it. Figures 18-A and 18-B show, respectively, a cross-section of a cap before it is fitted onto a container with a liquid and a cross-section of a cap fitted onto a container with a liquid and rotating. In both, the position of the liquid inside the assembly formed by the container and the cap is visible.

[0099] Figure 19 shows a capsule-lid on a container or receptacle which is in turn arranged on the axis of rotation of the machine which is observed not to coincide with the axis of rotation of the container.

[0100] Figures 20-A and 20-B show perspective views of a container with a capsule-lid having an approximately hemispherical cavity provided with protrusions (which can be observed in Figure 20-B) directed towards the interior of the cavity, as well as indentations on the hemispherical surface of the capsule-lid.

[0101] Figures 21-A and 21-B show two perspective views of the capsule lid from the two previous figures, where you can see the protrusions, elongations or indentations, as well as the film (Figure 21-B) that closes the capsule lid internally.

[0102] Figures 22-A and 22-B show perspective views of a container with a capsule-lid having an alternately shaped cavity with protrusions (which can be seen in Figure 22-B) directed into the cavity, as well as indentations on the surface of the cavity, although it could have either indentations only or protrusions only.

[0103] Figure 23 shows a perspective view of the capsule lid from the two previous figures.

[0104] Figures 24-A and 24-B show perspective views of a container with a circular cross-section, with a cap having a star-shaped polygonal cavity, such that the indentations are part of the star shape. Figure 24-B shows a cap that includes protrusions directed into the cavity.

[0105] Figures 25-A and 25-B show perspective views of a star-shaped cross-section container with a cap having a star-shaped polygonal cavity matching the shape of the container, such that the indentations are part of the star shape. Figure 24-B shows a cap that includes protrusions directed into the cavity.

[0106] Figure 26 shows an example of a capsule-lid according to the invention, comprising two right-angled, fin-like extensions that protrude into the cavity from the capsule-lid body, for example, like blades, defining two spaces or gaps between said extensions. Figures 27 and 28 show another alternative example of a capsule-lid, which features a tubular conduit projecting outward from the capsule-lid body and serving as a filling point, an area for inserting a suction element, or a direct consumption area.

[0107] Figure 29 shows a lower portion of a capsule-lid with a film having a folded tab over the film, as well as a plan view of the capsule-lid.

[0108] Figure 30 shows a plan view of film with a film unfolded with an elongated tab.

[0109] Figure 31 shows an alternative capsule-lid that has two projections, a first one to facilitate the removal of the removable film and a second one, preferably located diametrically opposite to the first projection, whose function is to orient the capsule-lid in the mixing machine when the capsule-lid is placed in it.

[0110] Figures 32-A and 32-B show two successive stages of the process of removing a film with a clamp, with an elongated tab folded over the previous one. Figure 32-A shows how the clamp grips the film, and Figure 32-B shows how it moves downwards to begin removing the film until it is completely detached from the capsule-lid.

[0111] Figure 33 shows a capsule-lid with internal fins as protrusions, and with a protrusion, preferably conical, in the center of the upper surface of the capsule-lid, with the capsule-lid attached to a container.

[0112] Figures 34-A, 34-B, 34-C, and 34-D show an alternative example of a capsule-cap, comprising several protrusions that extend into the cavity and an access area on the top of the cap-cap body. This access area serves as a filling point, a suction area, or a direct consumption area. This example features a pronounced height difference between the outer perimeter of the capsule-cap and the perimeter of its opening. The latter, located next to the protrusion where the film tab is positioned, forms the sealing area, facilitating film removal with tweezers. Specifically, Figure 34-A shows a perspective view of a capsule-cap; Figure 34-B shows a plan view; Figure 34-C shows a side view; and Figure 34-D shows a cross-section.

[0113] Figures 35-A, 35-B, 35-C, and 35-D show an alternative example of a capsule-lid, which, unlike the example in Figure 34, has no height difference between the outer perimeter of the capsule-lid and the perimeter of the opening, allowing for a double seal of the film on each of these perimeters. Specifically, Figure 35-A shows a perspective view of a capsule-lid; Figure 35-B shows a plan view; Figure 35-C shows a side view; and Figure 35-D shows a cross-section.

[0114] Figures 36-A, 36-B, 36-C, and 36-D show an alternative example of a capsule-lid, which, unlike the example in Figures 34 and 35, has a greater height, while maintaining a constant diameter corresponding to the container. Its height can be varied to adjust the volume in relation to the product contained. Likewise, a small difference in height between the outer perimeter and the perimeter of the opening is also observed, although much smaller than in the example in Figure 34. Specifically, Figure 36-A shows a perspective view of a capsule-lid; Figure 36-B shows a plan view; Figure 36-C shows a side view; and Figure 36-D shows a cross-section.

[0115] Figures 37-A and 37-B show an example of a capsule-lid assembly according to the present invention coupled to a container, in a perspective view and in a cross-sectional view.

[0116] Figure 38-A shows a first example of a machine according to the present invention.

[0117] Figure 38-B shows a second example of a machine according to the present invention.

[0118] PREFERRED EMBODIMENT OF THE INVENTION

[0119] In view of the aforementioned figures, and according to the numbering included therein, various examples of the embodiment of the objects of the present invention can be observed.

[0120] Thus, as can be seen in the figures, the capsule-lid (1), which contains at least one first ingredient, in powder or liquid form, for mixing in the container (2), which in turn contains and / or can incorporate at least one second ingredient, preferably liquid, the capsule-lid also acting as a closing lid for the container (2), comprises, by way of example, a body (3), preferably laminar, thermoformed or molded, with a circular or polygonal plan, which has: a cavity (6) defining a volume of variable shape and dimension, for example, a hemispherical dome (Figure 3) or rectangular dome (Figure 4) or a truncated cone, which determines a hollow space where a first food component or ingredient is stored, a rim, wing or peripheral projection (4) around the opening, such that the perimeter of the opening is smaller than the perimeter of the rim, wing or peripheral projection,

[0121] - there being at least one protrusion, preferably two protrusions (7, 8) emerging from the body (3) into the cavity (6), with coupling means on the perimeter of the wing or peripheral projection (4) to couple to the edge of the opening (5) of the container (2) and close it, the capsule-lid acting as a lid, and a film (9), preferably heat-sealed, arranged to cover the opening of the capsule-lid (1) and seal it, preventing the contents of the cavity from spilling out, being removable before being fixed as a lid on the container (2).

[0122] Preferably, the cap (1) is configured to fit onto the rim (5) of the opening (5) of the container (2) by means of coupling means arranged on the perimeter of the flange or peripheral projection (4). This coupling can be achieved by press-fit, for which the perimeter of the flange or peripheral projection (4) has a groove open on its underside to fit into the container (2), as shown in Figure 1. However, in other embodiments, this flange, flange, or peripheral projection (4) has a thread (10), as shown in Figure 2, a half-thread, or other means of closing it onto the rim (5) of the container (2) that will fit into a thread arranged in the opening (5) of the container (2).Also, preferably, as protrusions that emerge towards the inner part of the cavity (6) that serves as a storage reservoir, the cap-cap (1) has cone-shaped elongations (7), preferably located off the center and at a distance centered between the center and the wall of said cavity (6), as shown in the example of figures 8-A, 8-B.

[0123] Alternatively, or simultaneously, the cavity protrusions (6) have triangular shapes (8) that emerge from the body (3) and invade the cavity space (6) and run vertically, as shown in the examples in Figures 9-A to 10-B.

[0124] Thus, both protuberances (7, 8) are preferably defined by the deformation of the material itself, determining, in the external part of the cavity (6), corresponding housings of complementary shapes to the protuberances.

[0125] Optionally, the container (2), a body of revolution, preferably, also has one or two protrusions (7 or 8) that emerge into the interior of it to enhance the mixing effect, for example, triangular shapes (8) that emerge from its walls, as shown in the example of figures 11-A and 11-B.

[0126] In any case, in a preferred embodiment, the laminar body (3) of the capsule-lid (1) is formed from a single piece where the wing or peripheral projection (4) and the cavity (6) of the reservoir are formed by the deformation of the same lamina, as shown in the examples of figures 1 to 11.

[0127] However, in an alternative embodiment, the body, preferably laminated,

[0128] (3) The capsule-lid (1) is formed by two independent laminar pieces, a lower piece, preferably laminar (3a) comprising the rim, projection or peripheral wing (4) and an upper piece, preferably laminar (3b) with the cavity (6), and which is fixed to the lower piece (3a) through rails (11) provided for this purpose.

[0129] Specifically, as can be seen in figures 12-A and 12-B, preferably the upper piece (3b) with the cavity (6) has a wing (12) on both sides of its base that is inserted into the rails (11) of the lower laminar piece (3a).

[0130] Alternatively, the center of the cavity opening (6), i.e., the center of the geometric shape inscribed in the perimeter of the opening, and the center of the wing or peripheral projection (4), i.e., of the geometric shape inscribed in the perimeter of the peripheral projection or wing (4), may or may not be on the same axis perpendicular to the plane comprising the wing or peripheral projection (4), so that they may coincide or be displaced from each other, i.e., on two parallel axes, both axes being perpendicular to the plane comprising the wing or peripheral projection (4).

[0131] Likewise, if the shapes of the opening and the perimeter wing (4) are the same and the centers are on the same axis as mentioned above, the distance between the perimeter of the wing (4) and the perimeter of the opening remains constant around the entire perimeter, the distance being the same if the shape is circular.

[0132] For example, if the opening is rectangular and the perimeter flange (4) is circular, and both centers lie on the same axis, the distances between the sides of the rectangular opening and the perimeter of the flange (4) will be constant, although they will vary depending on the side of the rectangle. In these cases, the capsule-lid (1) will be symmetrical at least with respect to a plane perpendicular to the plane containing the perimeter flange (4) and which includes the center of the opening and the center of the flange.

[0133] (4) that are on the same axis. However, if the centers are not on the same axis perpendicular to the plane containing the wing or perimeter projection, the distance between perimeters will not be constant regardless of the shape of the opening and the perimeter wing.

[0134] The space between the cavity opening (6) and the edge of the wing or peripheral projection (4) of the capsule-lid body (1) prevents the contents of the capsule-lid from spilling out of the container (2) when the film (9) is removed. Similarly, capsule-lids (1) with the center of the opening off-center with respect to the center of the wing or peripheral projection (4), i.e., on different axes perpendicular to the plane in which the wing or projection (4) is inscribed (this plane coinciding with the plane in which the cavity opening (6) of the capsule-lid body (3) (1) is inscribed), are forced to enter the mixing and processing machine in a single position and direction. This allows the film removal system (9) of the capsule-lid (1) to operate correctly on said film (9), ensuring its proper removal.

[0135] In capsule-lids (1) that do not have an opening center offset from the center of the wing or peripheral projection (4), i.e., those that are symmetrical, it is necessary to correctly position the capsule-lid (1) so that the film removal mechanisms (9) can operate on it and remove the film. Therefore, it is advisable that the machine be equipped with clamping mechanisms that orient and position the capsule-lid so that the film removal mechanisms can operate on it.

[0136] To facilitate the removal of the film (9), it is preferable that the wing or protrusion (4) has a tab that clears access to a part of the tab (9), thus making it easier for this part to be held or grasped for removal by the film removal means (9).

[0137] Optionally, the body (3) has, peripherally on the outside of the cavity (6) an annular projection, or ring (13) which, as seen in the examples of figures 3 and 4, emerges projected outwards, serving as a point of attachment for the gripping means (14) of a mixing machine (100), which in turn constitutes a second object of the present invention, by means of which the placement of the capsule-lid (1) on the container (2) is carried out and the subsequent movement and / or shaking of the assembly formed by the container (2) and the capsule-lid (1) to mix the contents of the components.

[0138] However, the attachment point of the aforementioned gripping means (14) of the machine (100) may be defined by the perimeter flange (4) of the capsule-lid (1), as shown in Figures 13 and 14, which serves to fit the capsule-lid (1) onto the container (2). Alternatively, housings of complementary shapes to the protrusions (7) of the body (3) of the capsule-lid (1) may also be used by means of the machine to grip, orient, or move the capsule-lid (1).

[0139] In another embodiment, as shown in Figure 5, the capsule-lid (1) is symmetrical, meaning that the center of the opening is not off-center, on a different axis perpendicular to the plane of the wing or projection perimeter (4), with respect to the center of the perimeter of the wing or projection perimeter (4). Instead, both centers are located on the same axis perpendicular to the plane of the wing or projection perimeter (4). Furthermore, the capsule-lid (1) in Figure 5, like the one in Figure 2, shows a widening (15) on the perimeter of the wing or projection (4). This widening (15) helps ensure that if the powder contents of the capsule-lid (1) are dispersed, they all fall into the container when the film (9) is removed.

[0140] Furthermore, the laminar body (3) of the capsule-cap (1) preferably comprises a filling point (16) located on the surface between the cavity (6) and the perimeter edge (4), as shown in Figures 6, 7, and 9. This filling point serves for the introduction of a liquid compound or ingredient that is injected into the container (2) after the capsule-cap (1) has been placed and the container (2) closed. This filling point can be located anywhere on the capsule-cap body, preferably on the upper portion furthest from the opening.

[0141] Optionally, this filling point (16) is either a small weakening, defined by one or two cuts in the laminar body, or includes a silicone valve to allow the insertion of a needle for liquid injection. This filling point (16) can also be used, or alternatively, for the introduction of a suction element to consume the contents of the container (2) after mixing.

[0142] In a construction, the laminar body (3) of the capsule-lid (1) may comprise at its upper part an access zone or area (20) whose perimeter, preferably polygonal, is delimited by lines (21) that are weakened along their entire perimeter except for a section that acts as a hinge. This allows the access zone or area to be separated along the weakened lines without completely detaching from the laminar body (3), as it remains attached to it by the hinge section. Through this access zone or area, after separating a portion of it from the body (3), a suction element can be introduced, or the product can be consumed directly from the container (2) after the corresponding mixing has been carried out. This access zone or area can also function as an additional or alternative filling point. An example of this capsule-lid (3) can be seen in Figure 34-A.Alternatively, in a design not shown, the capsule-lid may include a recess in its surface that serves as an access point, but is covered by a label during the mixing process and is removed before the user consumes the mixture from inside the container and capsule-lid assembly. This label may also be pierced by a suction element.

[0143] In another alternative construction, the filling point (16) projects outwards from the laminar body (3) of the capsule-lid (1), preferably located at the top thereof, featuring a tubular body (22) terminating in a spherical surface (23) that can be separated from the tubular body (22) by being connected to it by a line of weakening, thus enabling direct consumption by suction through the tubular body (22), or the introduction of a suction element for consumption through it. An example is shown in Figures 27 and 28.

[0144] The lower film (9) that covers and internally seals the opening of the cavity (6) of the capsule-lid body (3) (1) preferably has a tab (9a) which, as shown in figure (6), protrudes laterally from the perimeter rim (4) of the upper laminar body (3) to facilitate its attachment during removal by the mixing machine (100) using clamping means (17, 18) provided for this purpose. The tab (9a) also protrudes from the perimeter of the film (9).

[0145] In an alternative capsule-lid (1), a tab (9b) is slightly longer than the diameter of the film (9) so that before protruding from the perimeter rim (4) of the laminar body (3), it folds over the film (9) itself, with the tab (9b) removably attached to the film (9). This construction is shown in Figure 29. A film (9) unfolded with an elongated tab (9b) as in Figure 29 is shown in Figure 30. Alternatively, though not shown, the film can be double-layered, with both layers joined by a section of their perimeter so that they overlap, with a lower layer attached to the capsule-lid body and an upper layer attached to the lower layer, the tab being located on the upper layer and protruding from the perimeter rim of the body.

[0146] Furthermore, in a preferred embodiment, said tongue (9a) is projected transversely at 90° from the center formed by the axis (e) drawn between the center of the cap-cap (1) and the displaced center of the cavity (6).

[0147] Optionally, as can be seen in the example in figure 7, said tab (9a) is located in coincidence with a projection (3c) of the sheet body material (3) in which an indentation has been provided that leaves part of said tab (9a) exposed, for easy mechanical removal and to prevent the tab (9a) from wrinkling.

[0148] In an alternative construction, shown in Figure 31, the cap (1) has a second projection (3d), preferably located diametrically opposite the first projection (3c), whose function is to orient the cap (1) in the mixing machine when it is placed therein. This second tab (3d) is particularly useful for symmetrical caps.

[0149] In any case, the capsule-cap (1) may have a type of code, such as BIDI, QR, or barcode, printed on one of its outer surfaces, for example, on the outside of the cavity (6) or on the film (9) that covers and seals the opening of the cavity (6). This code allows information or instructions to be provided to the mixing machine (100) regarding mixing conditions, such as identification of the product contained in the capsule-cap (1), the quantity and temperature of the liquid, the number of turns and counter-turns and their duration, stock maintenance (removing the capsule from stock once it has been used), and other conditions.

[0150] To read this code, the machine is equipped with code reading devices connected to a control unit with storage and memory, which will execute the instructions obtained from the code.

[0151] Additionally, the exterior of the capsule-lid (1) may incorporate a mark that facilitates its correct positioning in the machine in order to remove the film (9).

[0152] For its part, the aforementioned machine (100) mixing and processing machine for composite products based on mixtures comprises a base with a mixing space on it to be occupied by a container (2) to be placed on the base, as well as other conventional operating components that are not part of the object of the invention because they are common to this type of machine, and in addition, at least the following:

[0153] Gripping means (14) for holding a capsule-lid (1) of the type comprising a hollow body (3) with a cavity (6), and a cavity opening (6) sealed by a film (9) and comprising inside at least one food compound or ingredient,

[0154] A capsule-lid opening system (1) with means for removing (17, 18) the film attached to the capsule-lid (1) and with means for moving said capsule-lid (1) until it is positioned over the container (2),

[0155] Means for securing or coupling the capsule-lid (1) onto the opening of the container (2), and

[0156] Stirring means (19) that rotate the container assembly (2) closed with the capsule-lid (1) for mixing the ingredients.

[0157] In addition to the capsule-cap gripping means (1), the machine may include orientation means, which may be the same as the gripping means, whose function is to rotate the capsule-cap (1) inside the machine to position the film gripping point (9) in its specific location. These orientation means are particularly useful for symmetrical capsule-caps, since those that are not symmetrical can only be fed into the machine in their correct orientation. As mentioned, the capsule-capsule

[0158] (1) may incorporate a mark to facilitate its correct positioning in the machine, although sometimes the codes mentioned above could also serve this orientation function. This mark or code can be detected or read by the machine so that its orientation means position the capsule-lid (1) for film (9) removal.

[0159] Referring to figures 13, 14-A, 14-B and 14-C, it can be seen how, in one embodiment, the gripping means (14) for holding, moving and placing the capsule-lid (1) in the container (2) comprise arms (141) with clamping members (142) at the ends that are coupled either to the perimetral flange (4) of the capsule-lid (1) coinciding with the flange of the opening, when the capsule-lid (1) does not have a peripheral wing or projection (see figures 13, 14-A, 14-B, 14-C, 15-A and 16-B) or to a perimetral ring (13) of the cavity (6) as shown in figure 1. Alternatively, the gripping means (19) may be those employed to rotate and counter-rotate the cap (1) when the protrusions of the fork (19) are inserted into the complementary indentations to the protrusions (7) in the cavity (6) of the body (3) of the cap (1).

[0160] The means for removing the film (9) from the capsule-lid (1) for its removal and extraction preferably allow, while the capsule-lid (1) is moved over the opening (5) of the container (2) in one direction and the film (9) is held in place, the portion of the film (9) being removed is folded over the portion of the film (9) still attached to the capsule-lid (1), i.e., the film is removed in the opposite direction to the movement of the capsule-lid (1). This ensures that, as the film (9) is removed, the opening is gradually uncovered so that the contents of the cavity (6) of the capsule-lid (1) are poured into the container.

[0161] (2), which preferably contains the liquid as a food component for mixing with the contents of the capsule-cap (1). In one embodiment, the means for removing the film (9) are a wedge-shaped stop (17) to which one end of the film (9) is attached, for example, a tab (9a). By placing the capsule-cap (1) and moving it, the film is withdrawn in the opposite direction, as shown in Figures 15-A and 15-B. This wedge (17) is hollow to allow the contents of the capsule-cap (1) to fall into the container (2), separating the capsule-cap body from the film. Optionally, the wedge (17) can be removed before attaching the capsule-cap (1) to the container (2) for sealing.

[0162] Alternatively, the removal means are a clamp (18) or similar device that holds the tab (9a) of said film (9) separating it from the body (3) of the cap (1) in the opposite direction to the displacement of the cap (1) over the container (2), as shown in the example of Figures 16-A and 16-B, allowing the contents of the cavity (6) to be poured into the container (2) located inside.

[0163] Figures 32-A and 32-B show two successive stages of the process of removing a film (9) with a folded elongated tab (9b) using a clamp (18), Figure 32-A showing how the clamp (18) grips the tab (9b) of film (9), and Figure 32-B showing how it moves downwards to begin removing the film (9) until it is completely detached from the capsule-lid (1).

[0164] In another alternative solution, after placing the capsule-lid on the container, the film is removed to allow its contents to fall into the container.

[0165] After the capsule-lid (1) has been emptied into the container (2), it is necessary to close the container (2) with the capsule-lid (1). The machine is equipped with means to facilitate this closure. For example, if the coupling means provided on the capsule-lid (1) are a groove on the perimeter of the wing or a perimeter projection (4) that must be pressed onto the opening (5) of the container (2), the clamping and coupling means of the machine (100) either press the capsule-lid (1), now acting solely as a lid, from above onto the opening (5) of the container (2), or press the container (2) from the inside to engage the coupling means of the capsule-lid (1).

[0166] Alternatively, the machine's clamping and coupling means (100) allow the capsule-lid to be screwed onto the container. For this purpose, both the opening (5) of the container (2) and the capsule-lid coupling means (1) are threaded. For this screwing, for example, either the capsule-lid (1) is held stationary while the container (2) is rotated and raised, or the container (2) is held stationary while the capsule-lid (1) is rotated and lowered onto the container. Once the container (2) is closed with the capsule-lid (1), which acts solely as a lid since its contents have been emptied, the machine's agitation means are activated. These means cause the assembly formed by the container (2) and the capsule-lid (1) to rotate and / or counter-rotate.These agitation means cause the rotation and / or counter-rotation, either of the container (2) from its support base, or of the capsule-lid (1) from its upper part by which the capsule-lid (1) is held.

[0167] Alternatively, the stirring means of the container assembly (2) with the capsule-lid (1) for mixing the compounds or ingredients contained therein, preferably comprise at least a fork-shaped rotating device (19) which, provided with a plurality of points (191) in number, arrangement and configuration complementary to the gaps defined by the cone-shaped (7) and / or triangular (8) protrusions of the cavity (6) of the capsule-lid (1), is inserted fitted into said gaps to rotate and counter-rotate the assembly by moving it from the capsule-lid (1), as shown in Figures 17-A and 17-B.

[0168] Figure 33 shows an alternative cap-cap featuring a central inwardly projecting protrusion (30) that is substantially conical to receive either one of the prongs (191) of the fork (19) or a rotating device with a single prong. This cap has at least four internal fins (31) as protrusions.

[0169] The rotating device (19), with several points, fork (19), or a single point, may have a compression element, or spring, to press the capsule-lid onto the container.

[0170] Alternatively, the rotation and / or counter-rotation of the assembly is transmitted from means that hold the base of the container (2), so that the aforementioned rotating devices (19) act as pressure elements for the capsule-lid (1) against the container (2). In this case, where the rotating means do not transmit rotational motion to the capsule-lid (1) and container (2) assembly, the capsule-lid (1) can be pressed against the container (2) by a flat surface.

[0171] The rotations and / or counter-rotations of the assembly cause its contents to rotate and collide with the protrusions (7) of the capsule-lid (1), ensuring the mixing of the capsule-lid's contents (1) with the liquid in the container (2). Thus, the centrifugal force created by the rotating assembly allows the mixture created in the container (2) to invade the spaces furthest from the axis of rotation, forcing the mixture to reach the aforementioned protrusions (7) of the capsule-lid (1) as it rises within the assembly (see Figures 18-A and 18-B). The capsule-lid in Figure 33, shown attached to a container (2), alternatively features an inner flange or notch (33) along the perimeter of the wing that embraces the upper outer edge of the container (2). This lip or notch (33) prevents the capsule-lid (1) from accidentally detaching from the container (2) when the user is drinking.It is also observed how the container (2) may have on its inner edge a flexible material gasket (25), with a toroidal or square section, among others, which comes into contact with the wing of the capsule-lid that is inserted into the container (2) to ensure a seal between the two.

[0172] Figure 19 shows a capsule-lid placed on a container, which in turn is placed on the machine's axis of rotation. This axis of rotation does not coincide with the container's axis of rotation. The capsule-lid may or may not be symmetrical; it is not in this figure. However, because the machine's axis of rotation does not coincide with the container's vertical axis, both are off-center. This produces vibrations when the assembly rotates or counter-rotates. While these vibrations may be undesirable in some cases, with appropriate damping devices installed on the machine, turbulence could be generated that contributes to the mixing of the products.

[0173] Figures 20-A and 20-B show alternative capsule-lids arranged on a container. Figures 21-A and 21-B also show two perspective views of the capsule-lid from the previous two figures, where its protrusions and indentations, as well as the film that seals the capsule-lid internally, can be seen.

[0174] Figures 22-A and 22-B show alternative capsule-lids to the previous ones on a container with a capsule-lid. Figure 23 shows a perspective view of the capsule-lid from the two previous figures without the container.

[0175] Figures 24-A and 24-B show alternative capsule-lids on a container with a circular cross-section. Specifically, Figure 24-A shows a capsule-lid with a star-shaped polygonal cavity, such that the indentations are part of the star shape. Figure 24-B shows a capsule-lid like the one in Figure 24-A, but with additional inward-facing protrusions within the cavity.

[0176] Figures 25-A and 25B show capsule-lids like those shown in Figures 24-A and 24-B respectively, but with a container having a star cross-section matching the shape of the capsule-lid, so that the indentations are part of the star shape.

[0177] Next, according to Figures 34 to 36, three examples of the embodiment of three capsule-lids (1A, 1B, 1C) according to the present invention are described. Figures 34-A, 34-B, 34-C and 34-D show a capsule-lid (1A) with a pronounced height difference between the outer perimeter (4) of the capsule-lid and the perimeter of the cavity opening (6) thereof, the latter being the sealing area next to the projection (3c) where the tab (9a) of the film (9) is located, facilitating the removal of the film (9) by means of the tweezers. This capsule-cap (1A) comprises several protrusions (7) that emerge into the cavity (6), and an access zone (20) on the top of the body (3) of the capsule-cap (1A), which serves as a filling point, as a zone for the introduction of a suction element or as a direct consumption zone.Likewise, this capsule-cap (1A) incorporates a protrusion (30) on the upper surface of the body (3) which is used for securing the capsule-cap to the machine.

[0178] Figures 35-A, 35-B, 35-C, and 35-D show an alternative capsule-lid (1B) to that in Figure 34. This capsule-lid (1B) differs from the example in Figure 34 in that it has no height difference between the outer perimeter (4) of the capsule-lid (1B) and the perimeter of the cavity opening (6), allowing for a double seal of the film (9) at each of these perimeters. The capsule-lid (1B) also shares the characteristics of the capsule-lid (1A) in Figure 34.

[0179] Figures 36-A, 36-B, 36-C, and 36-D show another alternative example of a capsule-lid (1C), which, unlike the capsule-lids (1A, 1B) in Figures 34 and 35, has a greater height to achieve a larger cavity volume (6). However, the diameter of the capsule-lids should preferably remain constant for machine compatibility. Thus, the height of the capsule-lids can be varied to adjust the volume relative to the product contained, but the diameter must remain constant. This capsule-lid (1C) also differs from the capsule-lids in Figures 34 and 35 in that there is a slight height difference, less than in the capsule-lid (1A) in Figure 34, between the outer perimeter (4) and the perimeter of the cavity opening (6).

[0180] Figures 37-A and 37-B show an assembly consisting of a container (2) and a cap (1) according to the present invention. Specifically, Figure 37-B shows the interior of both components, revealing the internal fin-shaped protrusions (31, 7) of the cap (1) that facilitate the mixing of the contents of the cap (1) and the liquid, preferably water, when the container (2) rotates and / or counter-rotates with the cap (1) attached to it. It can also be seen how the wing (4) of the cap (1) fits against the upper edge of the container (2), ensuring a watertight seal between them due to the arrangement of the gasket (25) on the container (2). The container (2) also has projections, protrusions or fins (26) on its interior to contribute to the mixing of the contents of the capsule-lid (1) and the liquid, creating with the rotation of both, turbulence that contributes to the formation of the mixture.

[0181] It is worth mentioning that, although no example of the described mixing machine (100) has been shown in its entirety so far, it is assumed that the expert understands that the different means and elements comprising it may be arranged in the way that best suits each case, depending on the configuration of the packaging lines.

[0182] According to the above, the method of operation of a machine for processing compound products based on mixtures, which processes, by at least mixing and dispensing, compound products based on two or more ingredients, comprises the following stages:

[0183] - Securing a capsule-lid (1) with a body (3) having a cavity (6) with an opening, comprising a food product, solid or liquid, around which a wing or peripheral projection (4) is arranged, said opening being sealed by a removable film (9),

[0184] Introduction of at least one liquid compound into the container (2), Displacement of said capsule-cap (1) until it is positioned on the container (2) arranged in the machine (100), the orientation of the cap-cap (1) being understood to be achieved by rotating it, for the next step,

[0185] - Opening of the capsule-lid (1) with means for removing (17, 18) the film (9) attached to the capsule-lid (1) for pouring the at least one food compound contained therein into the container (2),

[0186] - Attaching the capsule-lid (1) to the container (2) forming a closed mixing assembly, and

[0187] - Agitation by rotating and / or counter-rotating the closed mixing assembly, for mixing.

[0188] Accordingly, when the capsule-lid is placed on the container, the user can only insert it into the machine in one orientation, as determined by the capsule-lid's shape and the machine's receptacle, which only allows insertion in one position. In another configuration, if the capsule-lid does not have a particular shape, or has a symmetrical shape, the user inserts the capsule-lid, and the machine detects it and orients it so that the film removal mechanism can operate. Alternatively, the capsule-lid (1) moves across the container (2) simultaneously with the film (9) being removed from the capsule-lid (1).

[0189] The liquid compound may be introduced into the container (2) either before or after the film (9) has been removed. If introduced after the film has been removed, the liquid ingredient should preferably be introduced into the container through the cap.

[0190] In any case, reference is made below to Figure 38-A, which shows a schematic of a possible construction of an example machine according to the present invention. The machine has:

[0191] Stirring means, preferably arranged at the bottom of the machine and driven by a motor (41), which rotate the assembly formed by the container (2) and the capsule-lid (1);

[0192] Gripping means (50, 51) that hold the capsule-lid (1) and allow it to be moved until it is positioned over the opening of the container (2) and which in this example also hold or attach the capsule-lid (1) to the container (2) during and after the sealing film (9) of the capsule-lid (1) has been removed, and

[0193] A capsule-lid opening system (1) with means for removing, preferably by pinching (18), the removable film (9) attached at least to the perimeter of the cavity opening (6) of the capsule-lid (1).

[0194] According to the machine's previous components, to place the capsule-cap (1) in the machine, a cover (50) must be lifted. This cover pivots on the machine's receiving support (51). The receiving support (52) holds the capsule-cap (1) by at least part of its perimeter, its diameter being slightly smaller than the capsule-cap's diameter to ensure a secure grip. This support (52) only allows one correct position for the capsule-cap (1). If it is placed incorrectly, the cover (50) will not close and will trigger an alarm, preventing the machine from operating. Once the capsule-cap (1) is correctly placed in the receiving support (52), the cover (50) closes over the capsule-cap (1).This cover (50) contains a clamping and pushing mechanism comprising an elastic element (51), preferably a spring, and a free-rotating shaft. The end of this shaft has a shape, preferably frustoconical, that follows the rotation and engages with a preferably conical area (30) of the cap (1) to press it against the cap. Alternatively, the end of the shaft may be flat or complementary to the shape of the cap's upper surface, for example, as previously described with a fork (19). The cover (50) is held in place by applying pressure to the cap (1) when it is locked by a locking mechanism.

[0195] Once the capsule-lid (1) is placed on the receiving support (52) and the cover (50) is closed, the manipulator assembly or module formed by both is moved vertically by the action of a first motor (42), until it is placed in a position separate from the mouth of the container (2), this separation being occupied by the opening system with a clamp (18) that will hold the film (9) of the capsule-lid (1) by its clamping tab (9a, 9b).

[0196] After the gripper (18) grasps the film (9), the manipulator assembly rises sufficiently so that the gripper (18), as it advances, removes the film (9) from the capsule-lid (1). These movements are automatic, driven by two independent motors: the first motor (42), described above, which vertically displaces the manipulator assembly, and a second motor (43) which horizontally displaces the opening system with the gripper (18). The liquid can be poured into the container before, during, and / or after the film (9) is removed.

[0197] Once the opening system removes the film (9), the manipulator module descends to align the capsule-lid (1) with the rim of the container opening (2), which has been previously positioned on the machine's base (54), creating a watertight seal. Once this seal is achieved, the receiving support (52) separates from the capsule-lid (1) and container (2) assembly, allowing the assembly to rotate, driven by at least one motor (41) from the machine's base (54). After the rotations and / or counter-rotations necessary to mix the contents of the capsule-lid (1) with the liquid poured into the container (2) have been completed, the capsule-lid (1) manipulator assembly rises, separating the container (2) from the rotating base (54), and the lid's locking mechanism (50) is released, allowing the capsule-lid (1) to be freed.In this way the container (2) can be manually removed from the machine with the capsule-lid (1) placed on it, ready to consume the mixture.

[0198] Subsequently, the capsule-lid manipulator assembly returns to its home position to begin a new cycle.

[0199] To rotate the assembly formed by the container (2) and the capsule-lid (1), a motor (41) is preferably located below the base (54) of the machine on which the container (2) is placed. Preferably, a plate shaped like the bottom of the container (2) is positioned and secured on this base (54).

[0200] After the container (2) has been placed on the plate and the capsule-lid opening system (1) has removed the film (9) and the manipulator module has attached the capsule-lid (1) to the container (2), the drive motor of the plate or base (41) begins a programmed sequence of rotations and / or counter-rotations, which may include pauses between rotations and / or counter-rotations. In an alternative not shown, it is possible to include two independent motors in the base, one rotating in one direction and the other in the opposite direction, thus achieving alternating rotation and counter-rotation of the mixing assembly without having to wait for a single motor to stop before beginning the rotation in the opposite direction. The axis of rotation is preferably coincident with the axis of rotation of the shaft that holds the capsule-lid.

[0201] It is important to note that the mixing cycle is programmable, either by the user or by instructions provided by the capsule code. This mixing cycle typically involves a series of rotations and counter-rotations at a specific speed for a set duration. The motor's waiting time before changing direction is programmable, ranging from 0.1 seconds upwards. Upon completion, the motor stops and awaits the next cycle start signal.

[0202] The capsule-lid opening system (1) for removing the film (9) performs the functions of peeling the capsule-lid (1) and preferably also of actuating the injection of liquid, preferably water. The system comprises the clamp (18) that grips the tab (9a, 9b) of the film (9) from a projection point and subsequently moves perpendicularly to the axis of the container (2), i.e., horizontally, gradually removing the film (9) until it reaches the end of its stroke, where it discards the film (9) into a designated area or container (55), preferably with the aid of a guide (53). In this way, as the clamp (18) moves, the food product falls by gravity into the container (2) without coming into contact with any surface that could contaminate it.

[0203] The liquid injection system, responsible for introducing water into the container for mixing, can have two alternatives. The first, or mobile, alternative involves placing the liquid injection system on the carriage that moves the gripper (18). The second, or fixed, alternative involves placing the liquid injection system at a stationary point on the machine, such as a pivoting arm. In the mobile alternative, the water can be injected into the container, for example, before the gripper (18) grasps the film (9), and / or during the movement of the gripper carriage (18) with the film (9), and / or before the gripper (18) completely removes the film (9) from the capsule-cap (1).In the fixed configuration, the pivoting arm can have two positions: one over the container (2) and the other outside the container (2). This allows the gripper carriage (18) to advance, making contact with the injection arm. As the arm pivots, it moves away from the container (2), and when the carriage returns to its starting position, it pushes the arm back into the injection position. Thus, when the gripper (18) retracts, the water injector or dispenser also retracts, regardless of whether the configuration is fixed or mobile.

[0204] The liquid or water dispensed into the container (2) is preferably within a temperature range of 1°C to 100°C, while the volume of liquid dispensed is defined by the machine based on the capacity of the container (2). To achieve this temperature variation in the injected liquid, the machine has a cooling and heating module and a liquid injection circuit (70).

[0205] The cooling and heating module comprises a cooling unit (60) connected to a liquid reservoir (61), preferably containing water, with a capacity of between 1 and 3 liters. This cooling unit (60) delivers water at temperatures between 1°C and 30°C continuously or intermittently. The cooling unit (60) is connected to a suction element or pump (62) and a dispenser to determine the volume of water dispensed into the container. The cooling and heating module also comprises a heating unit (63) connected to the liquid reservoir (61) and the suction element (62). The heating unit (63) delivers water at temperatures between 1°C and 100°C continuously or intermittently. The heating unit (63) is also connected to the suction element or pump (62) and to the same dispenser as the cooling unit (60) to determine the volume of water dispensed into the container (2). A schematic of the machine's liquid circuit (70) is shown in the figure.According to the above, the water temperature is programmable either by the user or by instructions from code incorporated in the capsule.

[0206] The machine's water tank (61) is removable for external filling and is equipped with sensors that indicate its water level. This prevents equipment malfunction or mixing errors if insufficient water is detected.

[0207] As mentioned previously, the machine allows, due to its programming and control unit:

[0208] Identifying the user, for example, by the container used, through its color, or by a chip or other integrated means, or by recognizing the user by biometric means, verbal commands, or other means.

[0209] - The BIDI or QR code on the capsule-lid can be read by the machine once it is placed inside, or even before placing it using an external reader or sensor.

[0210] The computer program, or machine software, allows users to generate personal consumption records and also allows them to review the consumption of other users. It will also allow online purchases, thanks to its internet access, and will provide access to nutritional information, suggestions, and new products. It can also generate alerts about allergens or other variables, such as acceptable levels of cumulative intake of certain ingredients or components in daily consumption.

[0211] Figure 38-B shows an alternative machine to the previous one, which differs in having a second upper rotation and / or counter-rotation motor (44) mounted on the capsule-lid manipulator assembly (1) and acting directly on it. In this way, the machine can be programmed so that, for example, the upper motor (44) forces the capsule-lid and container assembly to rotate in one direction, and the lower motor (41) forces the assembly to rotate in the opposite direction.

Claims

CLAIMS 1. Functional capsule-lid for coupling to a product mixing container (2), characterized in that it comprises a body (3) with a cavity (6) and an opening with a geometric center, which determine a volume to contain at least one food product, presenting: Coupling means on the perimeter of the opening for coupling to a container (2), and A removable film (9) attached to the perimeter of the opening that covers the cavity opening (6), sealing it hermetically.

2. Capsule-lid, according to claim 1, characterized in that it comprises at least one protrusion (7, 8) that emerges from the interior of the body (3) into the interior of the cavity (6).

3. Capsule-lid, according to claim 1, characterized in that it comprises a wing or peripheral projection (4), with a geometric center, around the opening with the coupling means on the perimeter of said wing or projection instead of these being located on the perimeter of the opening.

4. Capsule-lid, according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the coupling means have a semicircular shape open at the bottom to fit into a container (2).

5. Capsule-cap, according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the coupling means have a thread.

6. Capsule-lid, according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the perimeter of the cavity opening (6) determines a polygonal or circular shape.

7. Capsule-lid, according to any of the preceding claims 2 to 4, characterized in that the perimeter of the wing / peripheral projection determines a polygonal or circular shape.

8. Capsule-lid, according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the body (3) with the cavity has a semi-spherical shape or a cylindrical shape or a truncated conical shape with the perimeter of the opening determining a circular or polygonal shape.

9. Capsule-lid, according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one protrusion (8) is a vertical or inclined indentation or elongation.

10. Capsule-lid, according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the body (3) has an annular projection (13) outside and around the opening as means of securing the capsule-lid.

11. A machine for processing mixtures of products composed of at least two ingredients, which processes, by at least mixing and dispensing, having a base with a mixing space thereon to be occupied by a container (2) with at least one liquid food ingredient on the base, characterized in that it further comprises: Gripping means for holding a capsule-lid (1) of the type comprising a hollow body and a bottom opening sealed by a removable film attached to the hollow body and comprising inside at least one food ingredient, A capsule-lid opening system (1) with means for removing (17, 18) the film attached to the capsule-lid (1) and with means for moving said capsule-lid (1) until it is positioned over the container (2), Means for securing the capsule-lid (1) to the opening of the container (2), and Stirring means (19) that rotate the container assembly (2) closed with the capsule-lid (1) for mixing the ingredients.

12. Method of operating a product mixing machine, which processes, by at least mixing and dispensing, products composed of two or more ingredients, characterized in that it comprises a step of introducing at least one liquid ingredient into a container (2) and further the following steps: - Securing a capsule-lid (1) of the type comprising a hollow body and a lower opening sealed by a removable film attached to the hollow body and comprising within it at least one food ingredient, Displacement of said capsule-lid (1) until it is positioned on the container (2) arranged in the machine, - Opening of the capsule-lid (1) with means for removing (17, 18) the film attached to the capsule-lid (1) for pouring the at least one ingredient contained therein into the container (2), - Attaching the capsule-lid (1) to the container (2) forming a closed mixing assembly, and - Agitation by means of at least one rotation and / or counter-rotation of the closed mixing assembly in at least one direction of rotation.

13. Method, according to claim 12, characterized in that it is executed on a machine according to claim 1.

14. Method, according to any of claims 12 to 13, characterized in that it comprises a capsule according to claim 1.

15. Processing system for mixtures of products composed of at least two ingredients, characterized in that it comprises: a machine according to claim 11, a capsule-lid (1) comprising a hollow body and a lower opening sealed by a removable film attached to the hollow body and comprising inside at least one food ingredient, and a container (2) with at least one liquid food ingredient onto which the capsule-lid (1) is fitted after the film is removed.

16. System, according to claim 15, characterized in that it comprises a capsule according to claim 1.

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