System for formation of pre-portioned containers

Abstract

A system for formation of pre-portioned containers, said container containing precursor material for processing by a beverage or foodstuff machine for preparing a beverage or potable foodstuff from the precursor material, the system comprising: a container formation system for execution of a container formation process, in which a container is at least partially formed with one or more pre-set process parameters, which are fixed parameters associated with the container, and; system electrical circuitry for acquisition of a set of variable process parameters, which are associated with the formation process, the system electrical circuitry to identify from one or more preparation processes performed on the container by one or more end user beverage or foodstuff machine(s) a sub-set of the variable process parameters that are associated with a condition of acceptability of use of the container.

Description

[0001] SYSTEM FOR FORMATION OF PRE-PORTIONED CONTAINERS

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The present disclosure relates generally to electrically operated systems for repetitive formation of pre-portioned containers, which are for processing by a beverage or foodstuff machine for preparing a beverage or potable foodstuff from precursor material contained therein.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005] Beverage preparation systems for the preparation of a beverage comprise a beverage preparation machine and a pre-portioned container, which can be referred to as a capsule. The capsule comprises a single serving of a beverage forming precursor material, e.g., ground coffee or tea. The beverage preparation machine is arranged to execute a beverage preparation process on the capsule, typically by the exposure of pressurized, heated water to said precursor material. Processing of the capsule in this manner causes the at least partial extraction of the precursor material from the capsule as the beverage.

[0006] This configuration of beverage preparation machine has increased in popularity due to 1) enhanced user convenience compared to a conventional beverage preparation machines (e.g., compared to a manually operated stove-top espresso maker) and 2) an enhanced beverage preparation process, wherein: preparation information encoded by a code on the capsule is read by the machine to define a recipe, and; the recipe is used by the machine to optimise the preparation process in a manner specific to the capsule.

[0007] Due to the increasing popularity of said beverage preparation systems, it is desirable to implement efficient systems for formation of capsules. EP3978377 discloses a system for formation of flexible pouches. The system comprises a manufacturing line with stations for shaping, welding, transfer, positioning, dosing and closing. There is said to be data acquisition from the stations and central data storage.

[0008] A drawback of such systems is an inability to methodically fine-tune the process for formation of highly complex capsules, in which a large number of input process parameters are selected as inputs for electronic control of the machines that form the stations.

[0009] Therefore, in spite of the effort already invested in the development of said systems further improvements are desirable. SUMMARY

[0010] The present disclosure provides a system for formation of pre-portioned containers containing precursor material, said container for processing by a beverage or foodstuff machine for preparing a beverage or potable foodstuff from the precursor material. The system comprises: a container formation system for execution of a container formation process, in which a container is at least partially formed, and; system electrical circuitry.

[0011] In embodiments, the container formation system comprises an identifier associating station arranged to physically associate an identifier with the container (e.g., said container at least formed by the container formation process). In embodiments, the container formation system is controlled (including at least partially controlled, e.g., manual control may also be implemented) by formation system control electrical circuitry to execute said container formation process.

[0012] In embodiments, the system electrical circuitry is configured for acquisition of a set of process parameters, which are associated with the formation process (e.g., the particular formation process executed on the at least partially formed container). In embodiments the system electrical circuitry is configured to associate the acquired set of process parameters with an electronic record of the identifier, which is physically associated with the container.

[0013] By implementing an identifier (e.g., a code) to be associated with process parameters (including those used as inputs for a formation process and / or those measured during a formation process), said process parameters may be logged and recorded on a database in association with an electronic record of the identifier (e.g., with a key value database paradigm, in which the electronic record of identifier is the key and a data set of process parameters is the value). Such logging of process parameters may permit analysis and optimisation of process parameters for subsequent formation processes.

[0014] Such a means to log process parameters may be particularly useful for flexible containers, since such containers have been found to have a high degree of variability (in terms of geometric and / or mechanical properties) depending on the formation process, such that precise logging of the process parameters to identify parameter dependency is important to identify issues and to control the variability, e.g., by the input process parameters and introduction of new pre-set process parameters. As used herein the term “associate” in respect of the process parameters and the electronic record of an identifier, may refer to an electronic indexing, e.g., by a look-up table / key value database paradigm, in which the record of an identifier is used to look-up the process parameters.

[0015] As used herein the term “physically associate” in respect of the identifier and the container may refer to the formation of the identifier directly on the container (e.g., by printing or embossing) or on to a member that is physically connected to the container, e.g., a tag.

[0016] In embodiments, the container is at least partially formed from the sheet material. In embodiments, the container is flexible as defined herein. A flexible container may be obtained based on the use of sustainable materials, e.g., paper. In embodiments, the container comprises a body portion having a flange portion and a storage portion, and a closing member coupled to the flange portion. Such an arrangement of container may be conveniently formed from sheet material. In embodiments, sheet material from which the container is formed is paper based.

[0017] In embodiments, the identifier associating station is configured to form an identifier on a substrate. The substrate may comprise a material of the container (e.g., the sheet material) or a member to be connected thereto. The identifier may be formed on a body portion of the container (e.g., once formed by the system), or on the sheet material prior to formation.

[0018] In embodiments, the identifier associating station is configured to physically associate the identifier with the container with structural properties (e.g., geometric and / or mechanical properties) of the container to be unchanged compared to the same container without the identifier associated therewith. By associating the identifier with the container in a manner that does not substantially alter the structural properties of the container, e.g., formation on the material of the container by inkjet printing but without any degradation of the material from the printing process, it may be ensured that the results of the test process (e.g., the values of test process parameters) are not altered by association of the identifier. In this way, results of a test process on containers that do not include the associated identifier can be implied by the results for containers with the same (including substantially the same) variable process parameters (and / or other parameters including the input parameters) for which a test process has been performed.

[0019] In embodiments, the structural properties of the container are unchanged by association with the identifier such that the association of the identifier with the container is independent of a result of a test process (e.g., the association of the identifier has no effect on the values of the measured test process parameters for a test process), in which a predetermined condition is determined as being met which is associated with an acceptability of use of the container.

[0020] In embodiments, the formation system control electrical circuitry is configured to physically associate the identifier with a container of at least one of a batch of containers which are all formed with at least one identical (including substantially identical) variable and / or input and / or pre-set process parameter. By associating an identifier with only one of a batch of identically formed containers, test process results may be inferred for the whole batch without the need to associate an identifier with and test each of the batch.

[0021] In embodiments, the identifier is formed on a base of the storage portion of the container. By forming the identifier on the base of the storage portion, it may not interfere with or contaminate a preparation process carried out through a closing member. It may also remain readable for a flexible capsule, since an alternative arrangement on a closing member may be subject to wrinkling, which could make the identifier hard to read.

[0022] In embodiments, the identifier is formed on the sheet material. Forming the identifier on the sheet material, including in sheet form, may be convenient.

[0023] In embodiments, the identifier is an optical identifier, which may be: machine readable (e.g., it can be read in an automated manner) by the system electrical circuitry (e.g., by an identifier reading system implemented by said circuitry). A machine-readable identifier may be conveniently read with a fully automated system.

[0024] In embodiments, the identifier is at least partially manually (e.g., it is sized and logically encoded for reading directly by a user) readable to obtain at least a partial set of one or more process parameters. A partially manually readable identifier may enable a user to read some of the process parameters without an identifier reading system.

[0025] In embodiments, the identifier is unique to each container, and may comprise one or more of (which may be user readable): a time stamp (e.g., a manufacturing time / date from an epoch); a machine identification (e.g., an identifier of the machine / line used the form the container, in cases of parallel machines / lines),and; the identifier is alpha and / or numerical (e.g., in its actual formation). In embodiments, a first portion of the code comprises the time stamp and the machine identification. In embodiments, a second portion of the code comprises the identifier. In embodiments, the container formation system is configured to form a code comprising preparation information on the container. In embodiments, the code is separate (e.g., geometrically separate and having no dependence on the identifier) from the identifier. In embodiments, the code encodes the identifier. By encoding preparation information and the identifier in the same code, the identifier may be read during a preparation process.

[0026] In embodiments, the container formation system is configured to execute the formation process as including a series of sequential steps with a slot to move sequentially through the steps. In embodiments, the container formation system is controlled (including at least partially controlled, e.g., manual control may also be implemented) by the formation system control electrical circuitry to be executed in steps.

[0027] In embodiments, the system electrical circuitry is configured to create an electronic record for an identifier of the at least partially formed container, and to assign the electronic record to a slot.

[0028] In embodiments, one or more process parameters are associated with one or more of the steps, and the system electrical circuitry is configured to acquire the one or more process parameters associated with one or more steps as the slot moves through the steps (e.g., acquisition may be sequential in the order of the steps), and update a set of process parameters assigned to the electronic record to include the acquired process parameters (e.g., the update can either be in order sequentially as the process parameters are received or not in order, including with buffering).

[0029] By implementing a formation process as sequential steps, and with an electronic record of the identifier associated with a unique slot that moves through the steps sequentially, the container identity can be conveniently tracked by the slot rather than reading the identifier of the container at each step (which may otherwise be computationally intensive and / or slow down the formation process) to determine the container identity before assigned the process parameters. In this way, multiple identifiers reading systems may be obviated in the manufacturing line. Moreover, the identifier may be associated with the container at any step (rather than at a first step). With such tracking, one or more process parameters for each step (or just some of the key steps), can be sequentially assigned to the electronic record in real time as the slot moves through the steps. It will be understood that each subsequent slot has a different identifier. As used herein “steps” may refer to a unique part of the formation process which may be occupied by a single container at a time. Hence a slot starts at a first step and moves sequentially through the steps of the formation process, completing all the steps to the last step.

[0030] In embodiments, the container formation system is arranged as a series of sequential stations, each performing a different stage of the formation process. In embodiments, a station comprises one or more steps. As the container moves through the or each step(s) of each station each stage of the formation process is progressively completed.

[0031] In embodiments, the stations are arranged in parallel and / or in series. A parallel arrangement of stations may be implemented to handle more time-consuming stages of the formation process, e.g., filling / compaction. The formation process may for example branch into a parallel arrangement from a series arrangement, with tracking of the slot via the electronic record of the identifier assigned to the slot through both arrangements.

[0032] In embodiments, the container formation system comprises a delivery system to deliver a partially formed container and / or components thereof between the stations. A delivery system (e.g., a conveyor) may conveniently transfer the container formation between the stations, sequentially in a stepped fashion, in lock step, every time the process associated with the steps are complete.

[0033] In embodiments, the stations comprise one or more of the following: 1) material processing (e.g., sheet material processing, which may include feeding); 2) body portion forming from the material (e.g., by pressing from the sheet material) to define an interior volume; 3) cutting of the material; 4) filling of interior volume with precursor material; 5) sealing of body portion, and; 6) identifier associating, which is configured to physically associate an identifier the container at one or more of said steps. One or more of the aforesaid stations may also be integrated in a single station, or distributed over more than one station.

[0034] In embodiments, the identifier associating station is controlled by the formation system control electrical circuitry to physically associate the identifier with the container at one of said steps. The identifier may be physically associated the container at any point in the formation process with a slot implementation, since the slot is linked to the identifier by the electronic record. The identifier associating station may be arranged to physically associate the identifier with a body portion of the container after body forming, e.g., as part of the body forming station or a subsequent station. In embodiments, an identifier may only be physically associated with some of the containers, e.g., for one or several containers of a batch, for which a batch may share common process parameters (e.g., input and / or pre-set process parameters).

[0035] In a similar manner, in embodiments the process parameters may only be acquired for some of the containers, e.g., for one or several containers of a batch, for which a batch may share common process parameters.

[0036] In a similar manner, in embodiments the process parameters may be acquired for the full formation process or specific parts only, e.g., for particular stations and / or steps, including before or after filling only. Specific parts only may be acquired and analysed (e.g., by formulating a subset of the variable process parameters) when optimising the particular part of the formation process.

[0037] In embodiments, the set of process parameters is updated sequentially in real time. By updating the set of process parameters (e.g., the variable process parameters) to include newly acquired process parameters in real time as they are measured, the process parameters may be efficiently logged.

[0038] In embodiments, the stations do not comprise a reader (e.g., and / or including the stations are not configured to read the identifier) to read the identifier physically associated with the container, with the identifier being determined based on the electronic record associated with the slot. Since the electronic record of the identifier is assigned to a slot and tracked through the steps, having a reader to read the identifier of the capsule at a step is obviated.

[0039] In embodiments, the container formation system is configured for execution of a container formation process, in which a container is at least partially formed with one or more pre-set process parameters, (which may be one or more of: fixed parameters, including targets, associated with the container; fixed parameters, including targets, associated with the container formation system; fixed parameters associated with the material used / formed in the formation process) and / or input process parameters, which may be inputs used to control the container formation system.

[0040] In embodiments, the system electrical circuitry is configured for acquisition of a set of variable process parameters, which are associated with the formation process, and; the system electrical circuitry to identify a sub-set of the variable process parameters that are associated with a condition of acceptability of use of the container. In embodiments, the condition of acceptability of use of the container is determined by performing one or more evaluation processes on the container. In embodiments, the evaluation process performed is a test process.

[0041] By implementing the electrical circuitry to obtain a set of variable process parameters that were measured / obtained for a formation process and then to identify, based on a criteria associated with a condition of acceptability of use of the container that is related to an evaluation process (which may include a test process and / or a preparation process), a sub-set of the most relevant variable process parameters from this set, complex relationships between large numbers of variable process parameters and said criteria may be identified. This may enable optimisation of a formation process (including individual stations / steps thereof) e.g., so that said criteria is met.

[0042] As used herein the term “a condition of acceptability of use of the container” or “criteria” may refer to a criterion being met for a suitable evaluation process performed on the container, e.g., a test process and / or a preparation process.

[0043] As used herein the term “acquiring a set of variable process parameters” may refer to the obtaining of the actual parameters, e.g., as a listing. It may also include obtaining the values or conditions of said parameters. A condition may be defined in terms of Boolean operators, e.g., true, false etc.

[0044] As used herein the term “identifying a sub-set of variable process parameters” may refer to the determination of the actual parameters that are relevant to the criteria, e.g., as a listing. It may also include obtaining the values or conditions of said parameters for them to be relevant. A condition may be defined in terms of Boolean operators, e.g., true, false etc. Relevant may be defined has having some notable effect on achieving (or not achieving) the criteria. The sub-set may refer to a selection of a set of parameters from the larger group of acquired variable process parameters.

[0045] In embodiments, the container formation system is configured to execute a plurality of formation processes to form a plurality of containers, and the system electrical circuitry configured to: for each container, acquire the set of variable process parameters to derive a data set of variable process parameters, and; for the data set of variable process parameters, for the or each evaluation process (e.g., a test process and / or a preparation process) performed on each of the plurality of containers, identify the sub-set of the variable process parameters that are associated with a condition of acceptability of use of the container. By having a large data set of variable process parameters for numerous containers, (e.g., at least 50 or 100 or 500 or 1000 containers) the (single) sub-set of variable process parameters maybe accurately determined for the criteria associated with the or each test / preparation process(es).

[0046] In embodiments, the system electrical circuitry is configured to: for a container, associate the acquired set of variable process parameters with an electronic record of an identifier, the identifier which is physically associated with the container, e.g., each container has a set of the relevant variable process parameters associated therewith.

[0047] In embodiments, the system electrical circuitry is configured to: implement machine learning to identify (e.g., using the electronic records) the sub-set of the variable process parameters (e.g. from the set of variable process parameters) that are associated with a condition of acceptability of use of the container.

[0048] Machine learning may be implemented to consider large numbers of data sets of test process parameters and / or preparation process parameters and formation process parameters (including the variable process parameters) to determine the key links between the two. Machine learning may be advantageous since large data sets can be processed to identify complex links that could not be predicted manually or with other less sophisticated computational techniques.

[0049] As used herein the term “machine learning” may refer to the use and development of computer systems that are able to learn and adapt without following explicit instructions, by using algorithms and statistical models to analyse and draw inferences from patterns in data.

[0050] In embodiments, the system electrical circuitry is configured to implement control of one or more input process parameters and / or pre-set process parameters based on the sub-set of variable process parameters, which are associated with an acceptability of use of the container.

[0051] By implementing control of the input process parameters based on the identified sub-set of variable process parameters, improved containers may be formed which are more likely to meet / meet the criteria.

[0052] In embodiments, the system electrical circuitry is configured to derive additional pre-set process parameters for the formation process based on the sub-set of variable process parameters which are associated with an acceptability of use of the container. By implementing additional pre-set process parameters based on the identified sub-set of variable process parameters, improved containers may be formed which are more likely to meet / meet the criteria.

[0053] In embodiments, the container formation system is arranged as a series of stations, each performing a different stage of the formation process, and the sub-set of variable process parameters is determined for one or more of the stations.

[0054] By implementing a sub-set of parameters to be determined for a station (e.g., rather than as one sub-set the entire process), stations can be individually analysed and optimised, e.g., by control of the input process parameters or to derive additional pre-set process parameters for the associated station. Moreover, by splitting the processing and analysis by station, a likelihood of finding correlations in data may be increased. Moreover, one or more of the evaluation processes can be applied to a container and the effect at each station individually analysed, for example a query may be raised “determine sub-set of variable process parameters effecting container geometry at station 2” etc.

[0055] In embodiments, the stations performing the same stage are arranged in parallel (e.g., body portion formation), and the system electrical circuitry is configured to: identify parallel stations for which the condition of acceptability of use of the container is met and / or is not met; identify from one or more evaluation processes performed on the containers from the parallel stations (e.g., those for which the condition is met and optionally those for which is was not met) a sub-set of the variable process parameters that are associated with a condition of acceptability of use of the container, and; for the identified parallel stations for which the condition of acceptability of use of the container is not met implement one or more of: control one or more input process parameters and / or pre-set process parameters based on the sub-set of variable process parameters; derive additional pre-set process parameters for the formation process based on the sub-set of variable process parameters.

[0056] By comparatively analysing parallel stations for which the condition of acceptability of use was met and / or was not met, variable process parameters responsible for the condition being met / not met can be determined and used to adapt the control (e.g., by the input process parameters and / or new pre-set process parameters) of the stations for which the condition was not met such that the condition is subsequently met. In embodiments, the system includes a test system for execution of the one or more test process on a container at least partially formed by the container formation system . By implementing a test system to execute a test process on a container (which may be after or during the formation process, e.g., as one or more steps), one or more tests may be performed on a container formed by the formation process to determine if the container meets the criteria.

[0057] In embodiments, the system electrical circuitry is configured for acquisition of one or more test process parameters, which are associated with a test process. In embodiments, the system electrical circuitry is configured to determine from the test process parameters the condition of acceptability of use of the container. For example, the condition may be that: a value of one or more test process parameters is within or crosses a threshold value, or; in more simplistic cases, the value, which may include a Boolean operator, is representative of a pass or a fail value etc.

[0058] In embodiments, the system electrical circuitry is configured to associate the test process parameters with the electronic record of the identifier of the container. In embodiments, the system electrical circuitry is configured to associate a result of said determination with the electronic record of the identifier of the container. By associating the result of whether the test process parameter(s) meet the predefined criteria with the identifier and the container’s process parameters, any other containers with the same / similar process parameters may have the same result inferred without the need for actual testing.

[0059] By implementing the electronic record of the identifier to be associated with test process parameters, said test process parameters (and the previously discussed variable process parameters) may be logged and recorded on a database in association with an electronic record of the identifier (e.g., with a key value database paradigm, in which the electronic record of identifier is the key and a data set of variable process parameters and test process parameters is the value). Such logging of test process parameters may permit their analysis and convenient identification of the associated sub-set of variable process parameters.

[0060] In embodiments, test control electrical circuitry is configured to at least partially control (e.g., in combination with manual control) the test system to execute said test process.

[0061] In embodiments, the test system includes an identifier reading system and the system electrical circuitry is configured to: acquire the identifier (e.g., the electronic record thereof) from the identifier reading system, and; associate the test process parameters and / or said result with the electronic record of the identifier of the container by retrieving said electronic record of the read identifier and assigning the test process parameters and / or said result thereto.

[0062] By arranging the test system with and identifier reading system, the identifier of a container may be automatically read and its electronic record accessed for convenient association with the acquired test process parameters.

[0063] In embodiments, the system electrical circuitry is configured to identify (e.g., by an electronic record of the identifier) a container / other container(s) or batches of (other) containers, with corresponding sub-sets of variable process parameters, for which the predetermined condition associated with acceptability of use would be met or would not be met.

[0064] By identifying other containers by their process parameters that have some substantial effect / influence on the predetermined condition not being met, containers that are likely to cause faults / suboptimal beverage or foodstuff to be produced in an end user’s beverage or foodstuff preparation machine may be identified without specific testing (e.g., for containers without a test process executed on them) of said containers. These containers may subsequently be prevented from being used / sold by the manufacturer. Likewise, other containers for which the predetermined condition would be met may be enabled for use / sale.

[0065] In embodiments, the test process comprises one or more of: preparation process testing (e.g., a full or partial preparation process); container parameter testing; beverage / foodstuff product testing. The test process may comprise a destructive test, in which the container is rendering inoperable for a preparation process and / or further test processes.

[0066] In embodiments, the test system is arranged at a location of the container formation system. As used herein the term “at a location of the container formation system” may refer to the test system being under the same manufacturer ownership and control as for the container formation system. The location may be in immediate proximity to the container formation system, including the manufacturing line of the container formation system, such that containers maybe transferred to the test system in an automated manner, e.g., as a transfer step of the formation process. The test system may be incorporated as one or more steps of the formation process.

[0067] In embodiments, the variable process parameters include one or more of: measured process parameters for achieving the pre-set process parameters, and; other process parameters, which are unrelated to the pre-set process parameters (e.g., material property formation process parameters). In embodiments, the pre-set process parameters comprise one or more of: geometric parameters for the container; weight parameters for the container.

[0068] In embodiments, the system electrical circuitry is configured for acquisition of a set of variable process parameters, which are associated with the formation process, and; the system electrical circuitry to identify a sub-set of the variable process parameters that are associated with a condition of acceptability of use of the container. In embodiments, the condition of acceptability of use of the container is determined by performing one or more evaluation processes on the container. In embodiments, the evaluation process performed is a preparation process performed on the container by one or more end user beverage or foodstuff machine(s).

[0069] By implementing the electrical circuitry to obtain a set of variable process parameters that were measured / obtained for a formation process and then to identify, based on a criteria associated with a condition of acceptability of use of the container that is related to a preparation process, a sub-set of the most relevant variable process parameters from this set, complex relationships between large numbers of variable process parameters and said criteria may be identified. This may enable optimisation of a formation process.

[0070] In embodiments, the system comprises one or more end user beverage or foodstuff machine(s). In embodiments, the end user beverage or foodstuff machine(s) are arranged at a customer location remote from the container formation system, for execution of a preparation process on a container at least partially formed by the container formation system.

[0071] As used herein the term “customer location remote from the container formation system” may refer to the machine under customer / end user ownership and control rather than the container manufacturer. The location may be any location other than that at the site of the container formation system, e.g., at least 5 or 10km away, including in a different region or locality.

[0072] In embodiments, the system electrical circuitry is configured for acquisition of one or more preparation process parameters, which are associated with the preparation process(s). In embodiments, the system electrical circuitry is configured to determine from the preparation process parameters the condition of acceptability of use of the container.

[0073] In embodiments, the system electrical circuitry is configured to associate a result of said determination with the electronic record. By associating the result of whether the preparation process parameter(s) meet the predefined criteria with the identifier and the container’s process parameters, any other containers with the same / similar process parameters may have the same result inferred without the need for actual testing.

[0074] In embodiments, for a container the system electrical circuitry is configured to associate the acquired set of variable process parameters with an electronic record of an identifier, that identifier physically associated with the container. In embodiments, the system electrical circuitry is configured to associate the preparation process parameters with the electronic record of the identifier of the container.

[0075] In embodiments, the beverage or foodstuff preparation machine includes an identifier reading system and the system electrical circuitry is configured to: acquire the identifier (e.g., the electronic record thereof) from the identifier reading system, and; associate the preparation process parameters with the electronic record of the identifier of the container by retrieving said electronic record of the read identifier and assigning the preparation process parameters thereto.

[0076] By arranging the beverage or foodstuff preparation machine with and identifier reading system, the identifier of a container may be automatically read and its electronic record access for convenient association with the acquired preparation process parameters.

[0077] In embodiments, the preparation process parameters comprise parameters relating to one or more of: 1) a code reading process parameter(s); 2) a processing parameter(s) associated with a processing unit for processing the container; 3) a container ejection parameter(s), and; 4) a user input parameter(s) which may be input into / selected by a user interface, the input parameters(s) related to a quality (including if the beverage or foodstuff was successively prepared) and / or formation of the beverage or foodstuff produced from the container.

[0078] With a user input, a user may electively, or in response to a notification via a user interface, provide feedback, e.g., human factor based feedback, concerning a quality of the beverage or foodstuff, including whether it was successfully prepared. Based on the feedback the electrical circuitry may offer a refund for defective containers.

[0079] In embodiments, a code of the container encodes preparation information for executing the preparation process on the container and may also encode the identifier.

[0080] In embodiments, the beverage or foodstuff preparation machine is arranged to execute different preparation processes on the container, with different input process parameters, to prepare different beverage or foodstuff types, and a preparation process parameter includes a beverage or foodstuff type. In embodiments, the system electrical circuitry is configured to: determine a dependence on a different beverage or foodstuff types and the sub-set of variable process parameters. In embodiments, the system electrical circuitry is configured to associate the beverage or foodstuff type preparation process parameter with the electronic record of the identifier.

[0081] By associating the beverage or foodstuff type with the electronic record of the identifier and other preparation process parameters, the system electrical circuitry can determine if a beverage or foodstuff type has an influence on the determined sub-set of variable process parameters.

[0082] The present disclosure provides the system of any preceding embodiment, or another embodiment disclosed herein, comprising one or more containers formed by the system. The present disclosure provides a container formed by the system of any preceding embodiment or another embodiment disclosed herein.

[0083] The present disclosure provides a method of forming pre-portioned containers containing precursor material for processing by a beverage or foodstuff machine. The method may comprise forming the container from sheet material. The method may comprise forming a flexible container. The method may implement the features of the preceding embodiments, or another embodiment disclosed herein.

[0084] In embodiments, the method comprises: executing a container formation process in which a container is at least partially formed; associating, physically, an identifier with the container; acquiring one or more or a set of process parameters, which are associated with the formation process (e.g., the formation process that is executed on the container), and; associating said process parameters with an electronic record of the identifier.

[0085] In embodiments the method comprises: executing a container formation process in which a container is at least partially formed with a series of sequential steps, with a slot to move sequentially through the steps, with one or more process parameters associated with one or more of the steps; creating an electronic record for an identifier of the container, and assigning the electronic record to a slot; acquiring the one or more process parameters associated with the one or more steps as the slot moves through the sequential steps, and; updating a set of process parameters assigned to the electronic record to include the acquired process parameters.

[0086] In embodiments the method comprises: executing a container formation process in which a container is at least partially formed with one or more pre-set process parameters; acquiring a set of variable process parameters, which are associated with the formation process; identifying from one or more test processes a sub-set of the variable process parameters that are associated with a condition of acceptability of use of the container.

[0087] In embodiments the method comprises: executing a container formation process in which a container is at least partially formed with one or more pre-set process parameters; acquiring a set of variable process parameters, which are associated with the formation process; identifying from one or more preparation processes performed by one or more end user beverage or foodstuff machine(s) a sub-set of the variable process parameters that are associated with a condition of acceptability of use of the container.

[0088] In embodiments, the method comprises associating, physically, an identifier with the container.

[0089] The present disclosure provides a method of determining process parameters for a formation process of a container. The method may comprise forming the container from sheet material. The method may comprise forming a flexible container. The method may implement the features of the preceding embodiment, or another embodiment disclosed herein.

[0090] In embodiments, the method comprises acquiring one or more or a set of process parameters, which are associated with the formation process executed on container, and; associating said process parameters with an electronic record of an identifier of the container.

[0091] In embodiments, the method comprises: creating an electronic record for an identifier of the container, and assigning the electronic record to a slot of the formation process; acquiring one or more process parameters associated with one or more steps as the slot moves through sequential steps of the formation process, and; updating a set of process parameters assigned to the electronic record to include the acquired process parameters.

[0092] In embodiments, the method comprises: obtaining a set of variable process parameters, which are associated with a formation process; identifying from one or more test processes a sub-set of the variable process parameters that are associated with a condition of acceptability of use of the container.

[0093] In embodiments, the method comprises: obtaining a set of variable process parameters, which are associated with a formation process; identifying from one or more preparation processes performed by one or more end user beverage or foodstuff machine(s) a sub-set of the variable process parameters that are associated with a condition of acceptability of use of the container. The present disclosure provides electrical circuitry to implement the method of the preceding embodiment or another embodiment disclosed herein.

[0094] The present disclosure provides a computer readable medium comprising program code, which may be executable on one or more processors (e.g., of the system / electrical circuitry), to implement the method of the preceding embodiment or another embodiment disclosed herein.

[0095] The preceding summary is provided for purposes of summarizing some embodiments to provide a basic understanding of aspects of the subject matter described herein. Accordingly, the abovedescribed features are merely examples and should not be construed to narrow the scope or spirit of the subject matter described herein in any way. Moreover, the above and / or proceeding embodiments may be combined in any suitable combination to provide further embodiments. Other features, aspects, and advantages of the subject matter described herein will become apparent from the following Detailed Description of Embodiments, Brief Description of Figures, and Claims.

[0096] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES

[0097] Aspects, features and advantages of embodiments of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description of embodiments in reference to the appended drawings in which like numerals denote like elements.

[0098] Figure 1 is a block system diagram showing an embodiment system for formation of pre-portioned containers containing precursor material.

[0099] Figure 2 is a system diagram showing electrical circuitry of the system of figure 1.

[0100] Figure 3 is an illustrative diagram showing an embodiment container formation system of the system of figure 1.

[0101] Figure 4 is side illustrative view showing an embodiment container arranged as a capsule, which is formed by a formation process of the container formation system of figure 3.

[0102] Figure 5 is perspective illustrative view showing an embodiment container arranged as a packet, which is formed by a formation process of the container formation system of figure 3.

[0103] Figure 6 is bottom illustrative view showing an embodiment identifier arranged on a container arranged as a capsule, which is formed by a formation process of the container formation system of figure 3. Figure 7 is a block system diagram showing an embodiment beverage or foodstuff preparation machine for formation of a beverage or foodstuff from the container formed by the system of figure 1.

[0104] Figure 8 is a block system diagram showing an embodiment test system of the system of figure 1.

[0105] Figure 9 is an illustrative diagram showing an embodiment test system of the system of figure 1 .

[0106] Figure 10 is a flow diagram showing an embodiment of the formation process of the system of figure 3.

[0107] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0108] Before describing several embodiments of the system, it is to be understood that the system is not limited to the details of construction or process steps set forth in the following description. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art having the benefit of the present disclosure that the system is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or being carried out in various ways.

[0109] The present disclosure may be better understood in view of the following explanations:

[0110] As used herein the term “system for formation of pre-portioned containers containing precursor material” may refer to an arrangement that includes hardware comprising a container formation system for executing a formation process for the repetitive formation of containers. The system includes electrical circuitry for one or more of: control of the container formation system (which may be integrated as part of the container formation system); steps of process parameter acquisition and analysis, and; automatic or manual testing of containers formed by the formation process.

[0111] As used herein, the term “manufacturing process parameters” or “process parameters may refer to any parameter associated with the formation process. Process parameters may include one more of: pre-set process parameters; variable process parameters; input process parameters. As used herein, the term “pre-set process parameters” may refer to one or more of:

[0112] A) parameters that are set as fixed targets for the container formation system, e.g., specific positions of the piston in its steps of displacements, temperature at the shaping tool, force applied by a piston to compact coffee;

[0113] B) parameters that are set as fixed targets for the container, e.g., weight, geometric properties, and;

[0114] C) parameters that are set as fixed specifications for the material used in the formation process or the material that may be formed by the formation process, the material can include the sheet material, or other material from which the container is formed, the material can include the precursor material.

[0115] As used herein the term “variable process parameters” may refer to parameters that can vary during a formation process. The variable process parameters may comprise measured process parameters, which are obtained / measured during a formation process, e.g., when achieving the pre-set process parameters and / or under with the container formation system under control of the input process parameters. For example, the pre-set process parameters may define targets for which the variable process parameters are measured during achieving the targets. Examples include: sensor outputs, e.g., displacement history profiles, where a pre-set process parameter may be the final displacement; temperature; container conditions determined by a digital image obtained from a camera system. The variable process parameters may vary depending on the station (as will be discussed) where there may be multiple stations in parallel performing the same operation. The variable process parameters may vary depending on the line (as will be discussed) where there may be multiple lines performing formation processes.

[0116] The variable process parameters may include other measured process parameters, which may be unrelated to the pre-set and / or input process parameters, examples include material formation process parameters or precursor material parameters. As used herein the term “precursor material parameters” may refer to one or more of roasting settings, grinding settings, other process steps associated with the precursor material. As used herein the term “material formation process parameters” may refer to one or more of: geometric properties; mechanical properties; compositional properties, for the material used in formation process steps for forming the material. As used herein the term “set” in respect of the variable process parameters may refer to a grouping of the variable process parameters for a complete or part of a formation process (e.g., for one or more stations and / or steps) executed on a container. As used herein the term “subset” in respect of the variable process parameters may refer to a smaller selection of the set of process parameters / and or their values, which is determined from the set based on some criteria, which is typically an acceptability of use criteria for the formed container.

[0117] As used herein the term “input process parameters” may refer to parameters that may be variable and used as inputs to control the container formation system, e.g., to achieve the pre-set process parameters or other targets. The input process parameters may remain fixed during a formation process (unlike the variable process parameters). The input process parameters may be changed between processes. Examples include environment settings, e.g., temperature, humidity.

[0118] As used herein the term “container formation system” may refer to hardware for executing a formation process for full or partial formation of a container. As used herein the term “formation process” may refer to the process executed by the container formation system for said container formation. The hardware may be arranged as stations forming a manufacturing line. The stations may be arranged in series and / or in parallel (e.g., some stations in series may supply to stations arranged in parallel, where the parallel stations may be slower). The container formation system may include stations for processing the precursor material from its raw constituents to a final composition for filling a container. Alternatively, the container formation system may receive the precursor material pre-processed. The container formation system may be configured to at least partially form the container, e.g., from sheet material. The material may supplied as pre-formed sheets, including as rolls, from which a plurality of containers can be at least partially formed. Alternatively, the material may be formed as part of the formation process, e.g., as laminates from several sheets. The container formation system may comprise a communication interface for communication with one or more of: the machine; the server system; the external device; the test system.

[0119] As used herein the term “partial formation” in respect of a container formation process and a container, may refer to formation of parts of the container and / or the assembly at least two said parts, e.g., one or more of the following parts: a body portion, including a storage portion and an optional flange portion; closing member. In an example, the body portion may be pre-formed and the formation process may comprise its filling and sealing (e.g., with a closing member in the example of a capsule or by the body portion itself in the example of a packet). Alternatively, the body portion may be formed as part of the formation process. The equivalent may apply to the closing member.

[0120] As used herein the term “sheet material” may refer to a material arrangement with a comparatively thin thickness and a large in-plane length and width. The sheet material may be flexible such that it can be folded and / or formed into a container without fracture. The sheet material may be multi or single layer.

[0121] As used herein the term “station” may refer to hardware implementing one or a plurality of steps of a distinct phase of the formation process. It may include an identifier associating station.

[0122] As used herein the term “identifier associating station” may refer to hardware configured to physically associate an identifier with a container. As used herein the term “physically associate” in respect of the identifier may refer to one or more of: the formation of the identifier on or in the container, including on a body portion or optional closing member; on a member to be physically associated with the container, e.g., a strip or ribbon.

[0123] As used herein, the term “identifier” may refer to a formation that enables unique identification of the container from other like containers (e.g., all other containers formed by the system). An identifier may include one or more of: a code, including an optically readable or a magnetic code; a chemical tracker; a mechanical formation; a chip including an RFID. The identifier may encode or be associated with a unique string / sequence, e.g., an alpha and / or numerical string / sequence, including a binary sequence, which may be referred to as an electronic record of the identifier.

[0124] As used herein the term “test system” may refer to one or more systems, which are configured to execute a test process on a container formed by the system. As used herein the term “test process” may refer to a process / test implemented on the container for which the condition of acceptability of use of the container may be determined or inferred. A test process may refer to one more of: a process for determining if the container is suitable for having a preparation process executed thereon by a beverage or foodstuff preparation process; a process for determining a geometric or weight parameter for the container; a process for determining a mechanical parameter that may relate to handling of the container. Various examples of suitable test processes and an associated condition of acceptability of use of the container are disclosed herein, and include one or more of: full or partial preparation process testing; container parameter testing, and; beverage / foodstuff product testing. A test process may be implemented to determine test process parameters.

[0125] As used herein the term “test process parameters” may refer to parameters associated with the test process. The test process parameters can include input test process parameters that are used as inputs for control / targets of the test system(s) to execute the test process. The test process parameters can include variable test process parameters, that are measured / determined during a test process.

[0126] As used herein, the term "electrical circuitry" or "circuitry" may refer to one or more hardware and / or software components, examples of which may include: an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC); electronic / electrical componentry (which may include combinations of transistors, resistors, capacitors, inductors etc); one or more processors; a non -transitory memory (e.g., implemented by one or more memory devices), that may store one or more software or firmware programs; a combinational logic circuit; interconnection of the aforesaid. The electrical circuitry may be located entirely at one component of the system, or distributed between a plurality of components of the system which are in communication with each other over a computer network via communication resources.

[0127] As used herein, the term "processor" or "processing resource" may refer to one or more units for processing, examples of which include an ASIC, microcontroller, FPGA, microprocessor, digital signal processor (DSP), state machine or other suitable component. A processor may be configured to execute a computer program, e.g., which may take the form of machine readable instructions, which may be stored on a non-transitory memory and / or programmable logic. The processor may have various arrangements corresponding to those discussed for the circuitry, e.g., on-board or distributed as part of the system. As used herein, any machine executable instructions, or computer readable media, may be configured to cause a disclosed method to be carried out, e.g., by the system or components thereof as disclosed herein, and may therefore be used synonymously with the term method, or each other.

[0128] As used herein, the term "computer readable medium / media" or "data storage" may include any medium capable of storing a computer program, and may take the form of any conventional non-transitory memory, for example one or more of: random access memory (RAM); a CD; a hard drive; a solid state drive; a memory card; a DVD. The memory may have various arrangements corresponding to those discussed for the circuitry. As used herein, the term "communication resources" or "communication interface" may refer to hardware and / or firmware for electronic information transfer. The communication resources / interface may be configured for wired communication (“wired communication resources / interface”) or wireless communication (“wireless communication resources / interface”). Wireless communication resources may include hardware to transmit and receive signals by radio and may include various protocol implementations e.g., the 802.11 standard described in the Institute of Electronics Engineers (IEEE) and Bluetooth™ from the Bluetooth Special Interest Group of Kirkland Wash. Wired communication resources may include; Universal Serial Bus (USB); High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) or other protocol implementations. The machine and / or container formation system may include communication resources for wired or wireless communication with one or more of each other an external device a server system.

[0129] As used herein, the term "network" or "computer network" may refer to a system for electronic information transfer between a plurality of apparatuses / devices. The network may, for example, include one or more networks of any type, which may include: a Public Land Mobile Network (PLMN); a telephone network (e.g., a Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) and / or a wireless network); a local area network (LAN); a metropolitan area network (MAN); a wide area network (WAN); an Internet Protocol Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) network; a private network; the Internet; an intranet; personal area networks (PANs), including with Bluetooth a short-range wireless technology standard.

[0130] As used herein, the term “external device” or "external electronic device" or “peripheral device” may include electronic components external to one or more of: the container formation system; the beverage or foodstuff machine, the test system, e.g., arranged at a same location or remote therefrom, which communicate therewith over a computer network. The external device may comprise a communication interface for communication with one or more of: the machine; the container formation system; the server system; the test system. The external device may comprise devices including: a smartphone; a PDA; a video game controller; a tablet; a laptop; or other like device.

[0131] As used herein, the term “server system” may refer to electronic components external to one or more of: the container formation system; the beverage or foodstuff machine, the test system, e.g., arranged at a same location or remote therefrom, which communicate therewith over a computer network. The server system may comprise a communication interface for communication with one or more of: the container formation system; the beverage or foodstuff machine; the external device; the test system. The server system can include: a networked-based computer (e.g., a remote server); a cloud-based computer; any other server system.

[0132] As used herein the term “database” may refer to a data storage configuration which may be implemented as a key-value paradigm, in which an electronic record of an identifier acts as a key and is associated with a value as one or more process parameters, including sets of process parameters and optionally preparation process parameters and test process parameters.

[0133] As used herein, the term “beverage or foodstuff preparation machine” may refer to an electrically operated device that: can prepare, from a precursor material, a beverage and / or foodstuff, or; can prepare, from a pre-precursor material, a precursor material that can be subsequently prepared into a beverage and / or foodstuff. The machine may implement said preparation by one or more of the following processes: dilution; heating; cooling; mixing; whisking; dissolution; soaking; steeping; extraction; conditioning; infusion; grinding, and; other like process. The machine may be dimensioned for use on a work top, e.g., it may be less than 70 cm in length, width and height. As used herein, the term “prepare” in respect of a beverage and / or foodstuff may refer to the preparation of at least part of the beverage and / or foodstuff (e.g., a beverage is prepared by said machine in its entirety or part prepared to which the end-user may manually add extra fluid prior to consumption, including milk and / or water). The machine executes a preparation process, in which the beverage or foodstuff is preparation from the container. The machine may comprise a communication interface for communication with one or more of: the container formation system; the server system; the external device; the test system.

[0134] As used herein, the term "container" may refer to any configuration to contain the precursor material. The precursor material may be pre-portioned as a single-serving (e.g., enough for a single beverage / foodstuff to be produced therefrom rather than multi-portioned, from which a single portion would need to be portioned). The container may have a maximum capacity such that it can only contain said single serving of precursor material. The container may be single use, e.g., it is physically altered after a preparation process, which can include one or more of: perforation to supply fluid to the precursor material; perforation to supply the beverage / foodstuff from the container; opening by a user to extract the precursor material. The container may be configured for operation with a processing unit of the machine, e.g., it may include a flange portion for alignment and directing the container through or arrangement on said unit. The container may include a rupturing portion, which is arranged to rupture when subject to a particular internal pressure to deliver the beverage / foodstuff. The container may have a membrane / lid or other closing member for closing the container. The container may have various forms, including one or more of: frustoconical; cylindrical; disk; hemispherical; packet; other like form. The container may be formed from various materials, such as metal (e.g., aluminium) or plastic or paper or a combination thereof. The material may be selected such that it is one or more of: food-safe; it can withstand the pressure and / or temperature of a preparation process, and; it is biodegradable. The container may be defined as a capsule, wherein a capsule may have an internal volume of 20 - 100 ml. The capsule includes a coffee capsule, e.g., a Nespresso® or Nescafe Dolce Gusto ® capsule. The container may be defined as a receptacle, wherein a receptacle may have an internal volume of 150 - 350 ml. The receptacle is typically for end user consumption therefrom. The container may be defined as a packet, wherein the packet is formed from a flexible material, including plastic or foil. A packet may have an internal volume of 150 - 350 ml or 200 - 300 ml or 50 - 150 ml.

[0135] As used herein, the term "beverage" may refer to any substance capable of being processed to a potable substance, which may be chilled or hot. The beverage may be one or more of: a solid (e.g., a solid suspended in a liquid); a liquid; a gel; a paste. The beverage may include one or a combination of: tea; coffee; hot chocolate; milk; cordial; vitamin composition; herbal tea / infusion; infused / flavoured water, and; other substance.

[0136] As used herein, the term "foodstuff" may refer to any substance capable of being processed to a nutriment for eating, which may be chilled or hot, which may be potable. The foodstuff may be one or more of: a solid; a liquid; a gel; a paste. The foodstuff may include: yoghurt; mousse; parfait; soup; ice cream; sorbet; custard; smoothies; other substance. It will be appreciated that there is a degree of overlap between the definitions of a beverage and foodstuff, e.g., a beverage can also be a foodstuff and thus a machine that is said to prepare a beverage or foodstuff does not preclude the preparation of both.

[0137] As used herein, the term "precursor material” may refer to any material capable of being processed to form part or all of the beverage or foodstuff. The precursor material can be one or more of a: powder; crystalline; liquid; gel; solid, and; other. Examples of a beverage forming precursor material include: ground coffee; instant coffee, milk powder; tea leaves; coco powder; vitamin composition; herbs, e.g., for forming a herbal / infusion tea; a flavouring, and; other like material. Examples of a foodstuff forming precursor material include: dried vegetables or stock as anhydrous soup powder; powdered milk; flour based powders including custard; powdered yoghurt or ice-cream, and; other like material. A precursor material may also refer to any pre- precursor material capable of being processed to a precursor material as defined above, e.g., any precursor material that can subsequently be processed to a beverage and / or foodstuff. In an example, the pre-precursor material includes coffee beans which can be ground and / or heated (e.g., roasted) to the precursor material. The precursor material may be formed by the system with a precursor material formation process.

[0138] As used herein, the term "fluid" (in respect of fluid supplied by a fluid conditioning system of the beverage or foodstuff preparation machine) may include one or more of: water; milk; other. As used herein, the term "conditioning" in respect of a fluid may refer to change of physical property thereof and can include one or more of the following: heating or cooling; agitation (including frothing via whipping to introduce bubbles and mixing to introduce turbulence); portioning to a single-serving amount suitable for use with a single serving container; pressurisation e.g., to a brewing pressure; carbonating; fliting / purifying, and; other conditioning process.

[0139] As used herein, the term "processing unit" " (in respect of the beverage or foodstuff preparation machine) may refer to an arrangement that can process precursor material to a beverage or foodstuff. It may refer to an arrangement that can process a pre-precursor material to a precursor material.

[0140] As used herein, the term "container processing unit" may refer to an arrangement that can process a container to derive an associated beverage or foodstuff from a precursor material. The container processing unit may be arranged to process the precursor material by one of more of the following: dilution; heating; cooling; mixing; whisking; dissolution; soaking; steeping; extraction; conditioning; pressurisation; infusion, and: other processing step. The container processing unit may therefore implement a range of units depending on the processing step, which can include: a positioning unit for positing of a capsule in a reading position for reading of a code on a capsule, e.g. by the application of a displacement condition to a flexible capsule, an extraction unit (which may implement a piercing / opening process and a pressurised and / or a thermal, e.g., heating or cooling, brewing process); a mixing unit (which mixes a beverage or foodstuff in a receptacle for end user consumption therefore; a dispensing and dissolution unit (which extracts a portion of the precursor material from a repository, processes by dissolution and dispenses it into a receptacle), and: other like unit.

[0141] As used herein, the term "preparation process" may refer to a process to prepare a beverage or foodstuff from a precursor material or to prepare a precursor material from pre-precursor material. A preparation process may refer to the processes electrical circuitry executes to control the container processing unit to process said precursor material.

[0142] As used herein the term “preparation process parameters” may refer to parameters associated with the preparation process. The preparation process parameters can include input preparation process parameters that are used as inputs / targets for control of the beverage or foodstuff preparation machine (e.g., a processing unit thereof) to execute the preparation process. The preparation process parameters can include variable preparation process parameters that are measured / determined during a preparation process.

[0143] [General system description]

[0144] Referring to figure 1 a system 2 comprises: a container formation system 4; a container 6; electrical circuitry 8; a test system 10, and; a beverage or foodstuff preparation machine 12.

[0145] The container formation system 4 implements a formation process to form the container 6. The test system 10 implements a test process for testing of the container 6 formed by the container formation system 4. The beverage or foodstuff preparation machine 12 implements a preparation process to prepare a beverage or foodstuff from the container 6 formed by the container formation system 4. The electrical circuitry 8 provides various control and parameter acquisition and analysis functions for the processes, as will be discussed.

[0146] In appropriate embodiments, which are not illustrated: the test system, and / or; beverage or foodstuff preparation machine are omitted.

[0147] Referring to figure 2, the electrical circuitry 8, is idealised as distributed over the system 2 to provide said functionality. The electrical circuitry 8 comprises: system electrical circuitry 20 for parameter acquisition, database and analysis functions as will be discussed; formation system electrical circuitry 22 to control the container formation system 4 to execute said container formation process; test system electrical circuitry 24 to control the test system 10 to execute said test process, and; machine electrical circuitry 26 to control the beverage or foodstuff preparation machine 12 to execute said preparation process.

[0148] Since the electrical circuitry 8 may be distributed over components of the system 2, any one of the electrical circuitries 20 - 26 maybe referred to more generally as the electrical circuitry 8. Moreover, as shown in figure 2, the electrical circuitry 8 may be distributed as including a server system 28 and one or more peripheral devices 30, which communicate with each other through

[0149] T1 a communication interface (not illustrated) via a computer network 32. In variant embodiments, which are not illustrated: the peripheral device and / or server system is omitted.

[0150] The container formation system 4 comprises an identifier associating station arranged to physically associate an identifier with the container 6, as will be discussed.

[0151] The system electrical circuitry 20 is adapted for acquisition of one or more process parameters (which may comprise one or more of: variable process parameters; input process parameters; pre-set parameters, e.g., as a set), which are associated with the formation process, and to associate said parameters with an electronic record of the identifier.

[0152] The system electrical circuitry 20 implements electronic memory (not illustrated) as a database for storage of said one or more process parameters with the associated electronic record of the identifiers. The database is arranged as a key-value paradigm, in which an electronic record of an identifier acts as a key and is associated with a value as one or more process parameters, including sets of process parameters.

[0153] In variant embodiments, other data structures for said database are implemented, for example where an identifier is not implemented the process parameters may be simply stored with the associated test process parameters or preparation process parameters.

[0154] [Container formation system]

[0155] Referring to figure 3, the container formation system 4 comprises a series of sequential stations 40 each performing a different stage of the formation process. The stations 40 comprise the following examples, for which the discussed process parameters can be acquired by the system electrical circuitry 20 and stored on the database in association with an electronic record of an identifier of a container:

[0156] 1) material processing 42a: in which the material from which the container is formed is processed and / or formed.

[0157] In an example where the container is formed from sheet material, the sheet material from which the container is formed is processed for transfer to one or more of: the body portion body portion forming station (for formation of the body); sealing of body portion station (for formation of the closing member), and; another suitable station. In the example of the sheet material being supplied pre-formed by an external supplier, the material processing material station can implement unrolling from a roll or otherwise transfer of the sheet material to one or more of the aforesaid forming stations. In such an example, acquired variable process parameters can include material formation process parameters, which may be supplied by said external supplier for an external supplier executed material formation process.

[0158] In the example of the sheet material being at least partially formed by a material formation process that is executed by the container formation system 4 as part of the formation process, the material forming station may additionally include said material formation processes of the sheet material, e.g., including by a lamination process or a paper material formation processes etc. Accordingly, the acquired variable process parameters can include material formation process parameters that may include those from said material formation process of the sheet material.

[0159] In examples, in which the container is moulded, including by wet or dry pulp moulding, the material forming station may include: arranging a pulp slurry or a blank in a mould; and the applying one or more of heat, pressure, drying. The moulded material may also be supplied pre-formed by an external supplier.

[0160] Hence, for the above examples, acquired variable process parameters can include one or more of: a material batch identifier; material formation process parameters including material geometric properties (e.g., including length or thickness) and mechanical properties (e.g., tensile strength, delamination strength), material mould parameters, e.g. heat, pressure, drying related parameters, sheet material properties, transfer parameters (e.g., rate change of transfer speed), material manufacturer identifier, material composition parameters, e.g. type and / or amount of constituents.

[0161] Input process parameters used as inputs to control said part of the formation process or pre-set process parameters, which are set as targets for said part of the formation process, may also be acquired. Examples of which include feed / unrolling speed, material mould parameters e.g. heat, pressure, drying related parameters etc.

[0162] In the instance that this stage is executed separately from the formation process, the aforesaid parameters can be supplied separately and input into the system electrical circuitry 20.

[0163] 2) body portion forming 42b: in which the material from which the container is formed (as discussed for the material processing 42a station) is formed into a body portion 62 (as will be discussed) of the container 6. The body portion 62 forms an internal volume for containment of the precursor material.

[0164] For a capsule, this can include pressing the sheet material or pulp (including a blank) into a mould under elevate pressure and / or temperature. In an example, a piston presses the material into a cup shaped mould. An example of capsule formation is provided in WO2020127149. For a packet, this can include folding a strip of material back on itself and fixing the sides adjoining the fold line together (e.g., by bonding, including and adhesive or ultrasonic welding, or a mechanical connection, e.g., by crimping, or other suitable connection). An example of packet formation is provided in W02022022900A1.

[0165] In examples, in which the container is moulded, including by wet or dry pulp moulding, the material processing 42a station and body portion forming 42b station may be combined.

[0166] The acquired variable process parameters from this stage may include one or more of: measured process parameters including: former parameters, including piston force and / or displacement history, piston position, former calibration parameters, bonding parameters (packet) including pressing force and bonding parameters (e.g., welding energy, time, temperature); former identifier, and; machine identifier; including body portion shape.

[0167] Input process parameters used as inputs to control said part of the formation process or pre-set process parameters, which are set as targets for said part of the formation process, may also be acquired. Examples of which include material mould parameters e.g. heat, pressure, drying related parameters etc; piston control parameters, and; bonding parameters.

[0168] 3) cutting of material 42c: the material is cut to define the periphery of the body portion 62. For a capsule, this includes cutting the periphery of the body portion to define a peripheral flange portion. For the packet, this includes cutting the periphery of the body portion so that bonded sides and / or the open side have a precise shape.

[0169] The acquired variable process parameters for this stage may include one or more of: cutting tool parameters, including life remaining of tool (e.g., based on number of uses of tool), force and / or displacement history.

[0170] Input process parameters used as inputs to control said part of the formation process or pre-set process parameters, which are set as targets for said part of the formation process, may also be acquired. Examples of which include cutting tool control parameters, e.g., peak cutting force / displacement applied to the cutting tool.

[0171] 4) filling of interior volume with precursor material 42d: the internal volume of body portion is filled with the precursor material. For the capsule, an auger may supply, from a hopper, the precursor material in place of the piston for the previously described station, an optional step of compacting the precursor material, e.g., with a piston, may also be implemented. For the packet, an auger may supply the precursor material through an opening edge, which adjoins the bonded edges.

[0172] The acquired variable process parameters for this stage may include one or more of: filling parameters, including one or more of, rotation turns of auger, compaction force, hopper parameters, including fill level, compaction parameters, including compaction force.

[0173] Input process parameters used as inputs to control said part of the formation process or pre-set process parameters, which are set as targets for said part of the formation process, may also be acquired. Examples of which include filling control parameters, e.g., fill volume / weight, number of turs of the auger, target positions for the plunger / compactor.

[0174] 5) sealing of body portion 42e: the body portion is closed to hermetically seal the precursor material in the body portion. For the capsule, a closing member (e.g., a lid) is fixed to the flange portion (e.g., by bonding, including and adhesive or ultrasonic welding, or a mechanical connection, e.g., by crimping, or other suitable connection). An example of a sealing process is provided in WO2020127149A1. For the packet, the open edge is closed (e.g., by bonding, including with one or more of an adhesive, ultrasonic welding, heating or a mechanical connection, e.g., by crimping, or other suitable connection).

[0175] The acquired variable process parameters may include one or more of: sealing parameters including, force / displacement history for sealing press, bonding parameters including bond type (adhesive, ultrasonic, heating), bond temperature profile, ultrasonic frequency / energy profile. Input / pre-set process parameters used to control said part of the formation process may also be acquired, e.g., sealing force.

[0176] Input process parameters used as inputs to control said part of the formation process or pre-set process parameters, which are set as targets for said part of the formation process, may also be acquired. Examples of which include filling control parameters, e.g., bonding parameters, including target energy / temperature, sealing parameters, including target sealing force. 6) identifier associating 42f: an identifier is physically associated with the container 6, e.g., by an inkjet printer. For the capsule, the identifier may be printed on a base of a body portion 62 (as will be discussed). For the packet, the identifier may be printed on a body portion 62 (as will be discussed) including an seam / flange.

[0177] In variant embodiments, which are not illustrated, variations of the above stations are to be considered, including: the stations can be arranged in any suitable order, e.g., station 3) is arranged before station 2) or after station 4) or 5); the material may be supplied pre-cut thus obviating station 3) and 1); the body portion may be pre-formed formed 1) and 2). Station 6) can be implemented anywhere in the process, it may be desirable to implement it after any one of stations 1) - 5) to avoid any interference with the process or damage to the identifier from these stations. The identifier may be alternatively physically associated the container e.g., by embossing or adhering a substrate comprising the identifier to the container. Stations may be integrated with the same machinery, e.g., a single machine may implement 2) - 5).

[0178] Some of the stations may execute in parallel, e.g., 2) - 5), with 1) being executed in series into multiple parallel stations that execute 2) - 5), such that single sheets are processed into multiple containers in parallel. Moreover, preformed closing members and / or precursor material may be supplied in series into multiple parallel stations that execute 4), such that the containers are filled and sealed in parallel. Moreover, station 2) may be executed in parallel and fed in series to stations 3) - 5), which are arranged in parallel. Stations executed in parallel may be individually controllable, e.g., in terms of pre-set process parameters and / or the input process parameters.

[0179] The formation process may include a station for a precursor material formation process. This station can be implemented before station 4) (which is filling of interior volume with precursor material 42d) such that the derived precursor material feeds into said station. With the precursor material as ground coffee, the steps to achieve said ground coffee from raw coffee beans can be implemented, which can include: roasting; grinding; particle size control. The variable process parameters from this stage are precursor material parameters, which comprise one or more of: a temperature history for the roasting and other parameters including air flow rate; griding settings, including particle size, grinding element parameters, including separation and rate of rotation; a particle size distribution, in which the mean particle size is measured according to a standard, e.g., ISO 13320-1 ; colour of beans, e.g., as measured on a suitable colour scale; humidity conditions. In the instance that this stage is executed separately from the formation process, e.g., by a different manufacturer the aforesaid parameters may be supplied separately and input into the system electrical circuitry 20. Input process parameters used as inputs to control said part of the formation process or pre-set process parameters, which are set as targets for said part of the formation process, may also be acquired as discussed above.

[0180] The container formation system 4 is configured to execute a formation process as including a series of sequential steps 44, which are controlled (including at least partially controlled, e.g., manual control may also be implemented) by said formation system control electrical circuitry 22, with successions of slot 46 to move sequentially through the steps 44. In the example, shown in figure 3 the slot 46 is at station 42b and is advancing to station 42c.

[0181] A delivery system (not illustrated) is implemented to deliver the container in steps between the slots. Examples of which include one or more of a: conveyor system; pick and place etc.

[0182] The system electrical circuitry 20 is arranged to create an electronic record for the identifier that is associated with the container 6, and to assign the electronic record to a slot 46. Since the slot 46 exists at a unique time at a particular step 44 in the formation process, the slot 46 (and associated identifier) can be tracked through the formation process without requiring the physical association of the identifier to the container and reading of said identifier. Indeed, it is only after the container 6 is removed from a slot 44, e.g., after the formation process is completed / partially completed, that the identifier is required to be read so that the container 6 can be tracked. Each subsequent slot has a unique identifier associated therewith.

[0183] As the slot 46 advances through the steps 44, sets of one or more process parameters for each step can be acquired and sequentially assigned to the electronic record, such that the database is populated in real time. It will be understood than only relevant process parameters may be assigned, e.g., some steps for which the container is not altered / formed (e.g., steps to transfer the container between the stations) may not have any useful process parameters associated therewith. Moreover, a station 40 can be composed of one or more steps 44, with one or more set of process parameters (or no process parameters) for each step 44.

[0184] By implementing a formation process as sequential steps, and with an electronic record of the identifier associated with a unique slot that moves through the steps sequentially, the container identity can be conveniently tracked by the slot rather than reading the identifier of the container at each step to determine the container identity. In this way multiple identifier reading systems may be obviated, moreover station 6) may associate the identifier with the container at any step (rather than at a first step). In variant embodiments, which are not illustrated the container formation system is alternatively implemented, including with an identifier reading system at one or more of the stations so that when process parameters are to be acquired and associated with the electronic identifier, the latter can be read from the identifier reading system. In such an example, the operation of the formation process in steps may be obviated, e.g., the containers / components thereof may pass between the stations in unorganised lines, or the formation process may still be operated in steps, but with the need to assign an electronic record to a slot obviated.

[0185] [Container]

[0186] Referring to figure 4, a first example of a container 6, that is formed by the formation process comprises the container 6 arranged as a capsule 6. The capsule 6 includes a closing member 56 and a body portion 62, which comprises a storage portion 58, and a flange portion 60. The storage portion 58 includes a cavity for storage of the precursor material (not illustrated). The cavity of the storage portion extends in a depth direction 106 from the flange portion 60.

[0187] The body portion 62 may be formed from a paper based-material. The paper based-material may be implemented as a multilayer paper material.

[0188] As used herein the term “paper based” may refer to a material produced by mechanically or chemically processing cellulose fibres derived from one or more of: wood; rags; grasses, or; other vegetable sources, in water, draining the water through fine mesh leaving the fibre evenly distributed on the surface, followed by pressing and drying.

[0189] As used herein the term “multilayer paper material” may refer to at least one layer of paper (A) assembled with at least one layer of plastic (B), which may be a compostable plastic layer. The multilayer paper material may be oriented so that the at least one layer of plastic forms an internal wall of the body portion, including as described in WO 2023 / 052144. The layer of paper (A) may have a grammage of at least 20 g / m2, or at most 150 g / m2. As used herein the term “compostable” may refer to biodegradable as defined with reference to EN 13432:2000 (including anaerobic conditions, disintegration etc) and / or EN 14046:2004 (aerobic conditions).

[0190] The or each layer of paper (A) may be a sheet of paper (e.g. supplied in sheet form), alternatively, and including for the capsule body portion, layer of paper (A) may be formed by wet pulp moulding or by dry pulp moulding. As used herein the term “wet pulp moulding” may refer to a process of forming the body may comprise the step of placing pulp slurry in a mould, for example by filling the mould with the slurry or by drowning the mould in the slurry. The pulp slurry may be pressed in the mould, and the so formed body may be dried. The pulp can be a material, such as cellulose pulp, bamboo pulp, wood pulp, bagasse, non-wood pulp, cellulose based pulp or other alternative sources of pulp in any form.

[0191] As used herein the term “dry pulp moulding” may refer to a process of forming the body may comprise the step of providing a blank of preferably dried cellulose fibres. Then, the blank may be formed with a tool preferably under the application of heat and / or water into the shape of the body.

[0192] The closing member 56 closes and may hermitically seal the storage portion 58. The closing member 56 can be made of the same material as storage portion 58 or can be a flexible membrane.

[0193] The flange portion 60 is formed integrally with the storage portion. The flange portion 60 is arranged at the junction of the storage portion 58 and closing member 56 and comprise a planar extension of the storage portion 58 that is overlapped by a portion of the closing member 56 that is fixed thereto to hermetically seal the precursor material. The flange portion 60 extends in a plane defined by a lateral direction 102 and a longitudinal direction 100. Hence the closing member is planar in said plane.

[0194] The capsule 6 is circular cross in section such that it is rotationally symmetric about an axis 108. In this way a user can present the capsule to the machine 2 with any orientation about the axis 108. The capsule 6 has a diameter of about 50 mm, which is measured across an outer or inner periphery of the flange portion 60 in said plane of the flange portion 60. The capsule 6 can be configured with different sizes, which are characterised by different depths e.g.: 7 mm; 12 mm; 15 mm; 18 mm, and; 21mm.

[0195] In variant embodiments, which are not illustrated, the closing member may be arranged as convex or concave with respect to the storage portion. For example, for a convex arrangement, a centre of the closing member may extend into the storage portion in the depth direction by up to 1 - 5mm ± 10% or 20%. A minimum concavity maybe 0.2 mm. For example, for a concave arrangement, a centre of the closing member may extend away from the storage portion in the counter depth direction by up to 1 - 5 mm ± 10% or 20%. A minimum concavity maybe 0.5 mm. In variant embodiments, which are not illustrated: the body portion comprises the flange portion formed non-integrally with the storage portion and connected thereto; the body portion comprises the flange portion omitted, e.g., the closing member is wrapped around the storage portion; the container may be a non-rotationally symmetric shape, e.g., square sectioned or other shape; the capsule is alternatively dimensioned, including across an outer or inner periphery of the flange portion is 40 - 70 mm or 53 mm ± 10% or 20% and the depth is any of the described depths ± 10% or 20%; the thickness of the storage portion may have a thickness of 0.1 to 0.4 mm or 0.2 ± 20% or 30%; the thickness of the closing member may have a thickness of 0.05 to 0.3mm or 0.15 ± 20% or 30%, and; the storage portion and / or closing member may be made out of or include a different material, e.g., including a plastics or aluminium based material.

[0196] The capsule may be flexible. As used herein the term “flexible” as used herein in respect of a container may refer to a container for which a concave / convex / planar closing member, may all deform by 4 mm in said counter depth direction of the closing member, when subjected to 15 - 120 N under a three-point bending test. Further container specifications and details of the three point bending test are presented in EP22187701A and the subsequently filed PCT / EP / 2023 / 071116.

[0197] Referring to figure 5, a second example of a container 6 that is formed by the formation process comprises the container 6 arranged as a packet 6. The packet 6 and includes a body portion 58 formed from an arrangement of sheet material 62. The sheet material is folded at an end edge and bonded together at opposed bonded edges 64 to define an internal volume for the storage of the precursor material (not illustrated) and an opening 66.

[0198] In variant embodiments, which are not illustrated, the packet is alternatively configured, for example: it may be formed by a tube-feed process, in which a single sheet is joined at a longitudinal seam to form a tube and the tube is repetitively fixed together laterally to from individual packets; the packet may be formed from two separate sheets.

[0199] [Identifier]

[0200] Referring to figure 6, an identifier 70 is printed onto a base of the body portion 58 of the container 6, e.g., by inkjet printing. The identifier 70 is an optical identifier, which is: machine readable by the electrical circuitry 8. For example, the test system 10 and beverage or foodstuff processing machine 12 can include an identifier reading system (as will be discussed) so that the electronic record of the identifier can be associated with the relevant test / preparation process parameters. In variant embodiments, which are not illustrated the identifier is alternatively formed, including by embossing, etching or other suitable means; the identifier can be formed directly on to the material of the container or onto a substrate attached thereto, e.g., a label or a tag; the identifier may also be formed elsewhere on the container, e.g., for a capsule on the flange portion or on the closing member or for the packet on the bonded edge or away therefrom; the identifier may comprise other formations than an optical code, e.g., an RFID or mechanically readable code.

[0201] The identifier 70 is unique to each container. The identifier 70 may be numerical or alphanumerical. The identifier 70 comprises an identification portion 72, which is manually readable to obtain a partial set of one or more process parameters. The parameters are a manufacturing time stamp and machine identification. The identifier 70 encodes other parameters 74 with an additional data portion.

[0202] In a particular example, the time stamp is encoded as numerical characters for time of creation as seconds, minutes, hours from an epoch. Other time resolutions may also be implemented e.g., microseconds, year, day.

[0203] The machine identification comprises one or more of: a machine identifier for the machine that executed the formation process; a lane identifier for identification of the manufacturing lane / line that executed the formation process, and; a factory identifier for identification of the factory that executed the formation process.

[0204] Having one or more of machine, lane and factory identification parameters allows containers that are formed at the same time, e.g., in parallel from each other to be distinguished.

[0205] In variant embodiments, which are not illustrated: where containers are not formed in parallel, the machine identification is obviated; rather than comprise a time stamp, a numerical identifier is incremented from a start number for each new container formed; the identifier may only encode the identification portion.

[0206] The identifier 70 can be physically associated with the container 6 with the structural properties (at least those determined by the test processes as disclosed herein) of the container 6 to be unchanged compared to the same container without the identifier associated therewith.

[0207] Moreover, the formation system control electrical circuitry 22 is configured to physically associate the identifier 70 with a container 6 of at least one of a batch of containers which are all formed identical process parameters. By associating an identifier 70 with only one of a batch of identically formed containers 6, test process / machine results may be inferred for the whole batch without the need to associate an identifier with and test each of the batch.

[0208] [Beverage / Foodstuff preparation machine]

[0209] Referring to figure 7, the beverage or foodstuff preparation machine 12 is arranged at an end user location (e.g., at a location different to that of the container formation system 4). The beverage or foodstuff preparation machine 12 comprises: a processing unit 80 for processing the container 6; the machine control electrical circuitry 26 for control of the processing unit 80 to execute a preparation process, and; a reading system 82.

[0210] The processing unit 80 comprises a container processing unit (not illustrated), to hold and inject conditioned fluid into the container, and a fluid conditioning system (not illustrated) to supply conditioned fluid (e.g., heater, pressurised water) to the container processing unit. Suitable examples of which are provided in EP 2594171 A1 and WO 2020089404.

[0211] The reading system 82 is arranged with a reading unit (not illustrated) to read the identifier 70 on the container for traceability of the container 6 back to its process parameters from its formation process. In particular, the reading system 82 can read the identifier 70 of a container 6 so that the system electrical circuitry 20 can associate with the electronic record of the identifier the preparation process parameters for the preparation process executed on said container 6. The electrical circuitry 26 of the machine 12 can transfer the electronic record of the identifier and associated preparation process parameters via the computer network 32 for their storage in the database in association with the electronic record of the identifier and the formation process parameters of the container.

[0212] In some examples, the reading system 82 also reads a code (e.g., an optically readable code, including a QR, Barcode or other code not illustrated). The code can be read to determine preparation information, which encodes (e.g., directly on the container and / or looked up via an identifier) input preparation process parameters used to control the processing unit 80. Hence a range of identifier / code configurations can be implemented:

[0213] In a first example, the identifier 70 is read by the reading system 82 only for traceability of the container 6 back to its process parameters from its manufacturing process. In such an example, the preparation information used in the preparation process can be retrieved from electronic memory (not illustrated) of the electrical circuitry 26 of the machine 12 independently, e.g., as default parameters (rather than read from a code).

[0214] In a second example, as an extension to the functionality of the first example, the identifier 70 is read by the reading system 82 and is used to retrieve the preparation information from a database of the electrical circuitry 26 of the machine 12 (or other component of the system, e.g., the server system), which with a key-value database paradigm assigns the preparation information to the identifier.

[0215] In a third example, a separate code encodes the preparation information, which is read by a separate second reading system of the machine 12 to a first reading system for the identifier 70. For example, the identified is arranged on a base of the storage portion 58 and the code is arranged on the closing member 56.

[0216] In a fourth example, as an extension of the third example, the electric record of the identifier is encoded in the code (as well as the preparation information). Hence separate formation of the identifier can either be omitted, or it may also be present, but not read separately by the machine 12. An advantage of this implementation is that only a single reading system 82 on the machine 12 is required. In this example, the identifier 70 can be formed separately in addition to the code (as for the example discussed in association with figure 6) on the base and the code on the closing member. In such an example, the test system (as will be discussed) may read either the identifier 70 directly or via the separate code.

[0217] The following preparation process parameters can be acquired by the system electrical circuitry 20 and stored on the database in association with an electronic record of an identifier of a container:

[0218] 1) code reading parameters, including parameters associated with the code reading process, for example: whether the code / identifier could be successfully / partially read; displacement / force conditions applied to the container as part of the code reading process, e.g., the force required to give a closing member a particular displacement profile for readability of the code, as discussed herein for the three point bending test;

[0219] 2) processing parameters used by the processing unit, including control parameters used by the processing unit to process the container, for example: a pressure required for a particular fluid flow rate through the container; a pump time required to achieve a particular volume of product; processing unit positions. 3) container ejection parameters, including parameters related to ejection of a spent container, for example; if the container was successfully ejected; processing unit positions for ejection.

[0220] 4) a user input parameters, including those input into / selected by a user interface, the input related to a quality and / or formation of the beverage or foodstuff produced from the container.

[0221] [T est system]

[0222] Referring to figure 8, the test system 10 is arranged at a location of the container formation system. The test system 10 comprises test stations 90 each performing a test process.

[0223] In some examples a test station is controlled with test system electrical circuitry 24 (illustrated in figure 4) to execute the test process (e.g., in a fully automated manner). In other examples a test station is manually controlled. A test station 90 may also be controlled with a combination of automated and manual control.

[0224] Referring to figure 9, the test system 10 is illustrated in more detail, and includes a reading system 91 which is arranged to read the identifier 70 (as illustrated in figure 6) on the container 6, for traceability of the container 6 back to its process parameters from its formation process.

[0225] In the illustrated example, a user manually implements reading of the identifier 70 by presenting the container 6 to the reading system 91 . The user may subsequently (or before reading) present the container 6 to the relevant test station 90 (which may automatically associate the test process with the electronic identifier of the last read identifier).

[0226] In variant embodiments, which are not illustrated, the reading system can be integrated in the test station, such that the identifier is automatically read when the container is presented to the test station.

[0227] In particular, the reading system can read the identifier 70 of a container 6 so that the system electrical circuitry 20 can automatically associate with the electronic record of the identifier test process parameters for the test process executed on said container 6. The system electrical circuitry 20 acquires the identifier and associated test process parameters and implements their storage in the database in association with the electronic record of the identifier and formation process parameters of the container.

[0228] Alternatively, where a test station is integrated with the container formation system 4 (examples include a camera system to obtain images of the container, from which container geometric parameters may be determined), the electronic record of the identifier of the container can be determined by the slot to which they are assigned.

[0229] The test process parameters can be automatically acquired by the system electrical circuitry 20 and / or are acquired by input into the system electrical circuitry 20 e.g., by a user interface (not illustrated).

[0230] The test stations 90 comprise the following examples:

[0231] 1) Extraction testing 92a: the test station comprises the beverage or foodstuff preparation machine 12 generally as discussed above (however adaptations for a test process may be implemented since the machine 12 is not necessarily required to produce a beverage / foodstuff suitable for end-user consumption, e.g. the reading system 82 may be omitted and / or the machine may be configured to implement only part of a preparation process and / or an identifier reading system may be implemented to read the identifier), however rather than the machine 12 based at a customer location, the machine 12 may be located at the site of the container formation system 4, e.g., it may be in close proximity thereto such that containers 6 are fed from the container formation system 4 directly to the machine 12. The test process parameters may be as for the preparation process parameters for the beverage or foodstuff preparation machine 12 as discussed above.

[0232] 2) Container parameter testing 92b: a container is tested to obtain one or more of the following: container geometric parameters, e.g., diameter / lengths of the body portion, thickness of the flange portion, alignment of flange portion with closing member, radii of fold / wrinkle / crack identification, e.g., via image processing implemented with a camera system; container mechanical parameters, including the force required to implement a displacement condition, e.g., for capsule subject to a three-point bending condition of the body portion, in which loading is applied to a base of the body portion and in an opposed direction to two sides of the flange portion to implement concavity across the closing member (e.g., for reading of a code on the closing member), container leakage testing in which an internal threshold pressure for leakage is establish or a leakage rate at a predetermined pressure is determined, container bust testing, in which a force threshold for mechanically pulling the container apart is establish (e.g., to simulate handling a force is applied to tear the closing member from the flange portion or the force to tear the bond between the sides of the packet); container weight parameters, including weight measurement for one or more portions of the container. 3) Beverage / foodstuff product testing 92c: a beverage or foodstuff prepared from the container by a suitable beverage or foodstuff preparation machine 12 as discussed above is tested. This may include human factors testing, by an individual or a group of individuals, in which human factors-based test process parameters are obtained (e.g., by a questionnaire, which can include taste ratings, consistency ratings etc). This may include physical property-based test process parameters, which are obtained by analysis of the beverage or foodstuff. The physical property based test process parameters can include one or more of: volume of product; temperature of product; composition of product, e.g., amount of crema or certain chemicals.

[0233] A test process can be integrated in the formation process, including as one or more steps in the manufacturing line of the container formation system 4. With such an arrangement, if the container passes the test process, the formation process steps may be continued. In such an example the test process may not be not destructive on a container, that is, following a test process the container is not rendered unusable in a machine 12. Examples include: container geometric parameters testing; container weight parameter testing, including and of the aforesaid by means of a camera system etc.

[0234] A test process may be executed after the formation process. In such an example the test process may be destructive on a container, that is, following a test process the container is rendered unusable in a machine 12. Examples include the: extraction testing; burst testing; leakage testing; human factors testing.

[0235] [Embodiment processes of system]

[0236] The electrical circuitry 8 processes the aforedescribed database comprising the electronic record of the identifier linked with the process parameters (e.g., the variable process parameters) and in some cases the preparation process parameters and / or test process parameters, examples of which include the following.

[0237] Referring to figure 10, the electrical circuitry is configured to execute the following steps: lock 200: acquisition of a set of process parameters (e.g., typically the variable process parameters, and optionally the pre-set process parameters and / or the input process parameters), which are associated with the formation process.

[0238] Block 202: associate the acquired process parameters with an electronic record of an identifier, which is physically associated with the container. Block 204: implement one or more evaluation processes on the container and determine a condition of acceptability of use of the container.

[0239] Block 206: identification from the one or more evaluation processes performed on the container a sub-set of the variable process parameters that are associated with the condition of acceptability of use of the container.

[0240] Block 208: refine process parameters (e.g., new pre-set process parameters and / or input process parameters) based on the identified variable process parameters.

[0241] In variant embodiments, which are not illustrated: the process parameters may be associated with the container other than by using the identifier, hence block 202 may be omitted; block 208 may also be omitted in examples that concern parameter acquisition, e.g., for containers that are not subject to an evaluation process.

[0242] In more detail, at block 200 acquisition can include interfacing with other electrical circuitry that implements said process parameters, e.g., the formation system control electrical circuitry. Acquisition may occur sequentially at one or more of the previously discussed steps in the formation process, including in real time. Acquisition can include obtaining the process parameters (e.g., the variable process parameters) as sets and also their values, which may be numerical or Boolean operators, e.g., true false or a digital image etc, depending on what the parameters is.

[0243] In more detail, at block 202 association of the acquired process parameters with an electronic record of an identifier may include entering the acquired process parameters into a database in association with a key that comprises the electronic record. The electronic record of the identifier can be determined by identifying the slot (to which the electronic record of the identifier is assigned) for the container, or by reading an identifier from the container or a component thereof.

[0244] In more detail, at block 204 an evaluation process is implemented on the container (which in a first example, the aforedescribed test system 10 implements one or more test processes on the container 6, or in a second example, the aforedescribed beverage or foodstuff preparation machine 12 implements one or more preparation processes on the container 6, hence herein the term an evaluation process can be user interchangeably with a test process and / or a preparation process) and the results of said the or each evaluation process is used to determine the condition of acceptability of use of the container 6. The acceptability of use of the container may not be directly related to a variable process parameter, e.g., the condition of acceptability of use may be a particular geometry or weight test, with the variable process parameters being used to achieve targets related to said test, but not the measured quantity in the test per se.

[0245] As part of the evaluation process, the system electrical circuitry may be configured for acquisition of one or more evaluation process parameters, (e.g., in the first example test process parameters or second example preparation process parameters) which are associated with a test process, e.g., a result thereof. In embodiments, the system electrical circuitry is configured to determine from the evaluation process parameters the condition of acceptability of use of the container. For example, the condition may be that: a value of one or more evaluation process parameters is within or crosses a threshold value, or; in more simplistic cases, the value, which may include a Boolean operator, is representative of a pass or a fail value etc.

[0246] The system electrical circuitry is configured to associate the evaluation process parameters with the electronic record of the identifier of the container, which may include a result of the determined condition of acceptability of use from the evaluation process parameters with the electronic record. This may include the identifier 70 of the container 6 being read by the reading system (e.g., of the test system 10 or the beverage or foodstuff preparation machine 12) to determine the electronic record of the identifier. In variant embodiments, the evaluation process parameters may not be associated with the with the electronic record of the identifier.

[0247] Other information related to the evaluation process may also be associated with the electronic record of the identifier, e.g., one or more of: an identifier associated with the type of evaluation process (which may be useful if more than one different evaluation processes are performed on the container); the operator executing the evaluation process.

[0248] In more detail, at block 206, the system electrical circuitry may implement machine learning to identify the sub-set of the variable process parameters that are associated with a condition of acceptability of use of the container. Machine learning may be implemented to consider large numbers of data sets of test process parameters and / or process parameters to determine the key links between the two. Machine learning may be advantageous since large data sets can be processed to identify complex links that could not be predicted manually or with other less sophisticated computational techniques. Machine learning can refer to the use and development of computer systems that are able to use algorithms and statistical models to analyse and draw inferences from patterns in data. In variant embodiments, other techniques may be implemented to identify the sub-set of the variable process parameters, e.g., interpolation and other numerical analysis.

[0249] This step may include the electrical circuitry identifying the variable process parameters that are relevant to containers 6 for which the predetermined condition was met and / or was not met, and deriving therefrom, said subset of variable process parameters that are required for the predetermined condition to be met.

[0250] For example, it may be determined that several of the parallel stations achieve containers 6 for which the predetermined condition was met and others do not. By comparative analysis, the relevant sub-set of variable process parameters can be determined from these stations and applied to adapt the input process parameters / add new pre-set process parameters for other stations for which the predetermined condition was not met.

[0251] In more detail, at block 208 the sub-set of variable process parameters is used to refine the formation process, for example by refinement of the input process parameters and / or additional pre-set preparation processes.

[0252] In variant embodiments, other functionality may be implemented other than or in addition to said refinement, for example, the system electrical circuitry is configured to identify (e.g., by an electronic record of the identifier) a container / other container(s) or batches of (other) containers, with corresponding sub-sets of variable process parameters, for which the predetermined condition associated with acceptability of use would be met or would not be met, without the need for an evaluation process to be performed on the container(s). It can be beneficial in identifying containers for which the predetermined condition would not be met if subject to a test process. In an example, these containers may be prevented from use / sale.

[0253] It will be understood that the same formation process (e.g., based on the same pre-set and / or input preparation process parameters) and one or more evaluation processes can be implemented for formation and evaluation a plurality of containers. In this way, improved accuracy of the sub-set of variable process parameters may be obtained, that is a single sub-set of variable process parameters is obtained from plurality of containers. The single sub-set of variable process parameters can be obtained for each or for all the evaluation processes.

[0254] Other information related to the evaluation process may also be associated with the electronic record of the identifier, e.g., one or more of: an identifier associated with the type of evaluation process (which may be useful if more than one different evaluation processes are performed on the container); the operator executing the evaluation process.

[0255] The type of container produced may also be associated with the electronic record of the identifier, (or other type parameter). The type may be associated with one or more of the following: the type of precursor material the container contains (e.g., a coffee blend etc); the intended beverage or foodstuff type(s) (e.g., latte, cappuccino etc) the container is for preparing, which may be linked to the or a set of different preparation process(es) that can be executed on a container, e.g. with each preparation process forming a different said foodstuff type; other associated variables that distinguish a type of container from another. The database of acquired process parameters (e.g., the variable process parameters) in association with the electronic record of the identifier may be defined for same container types. Hence a sub-set of variable process parameters can be defined for each container type.

[0256] Blocks 200 - 206 can be repeated iteratively so that the identified sub-set of variable process parameters are continually refined and increased in accuracy (e.g., in terms of their actual values and / or their identification as relevant). Block 208 may also be executed as part of said iteration, e.g., to continuously update the input process parameters and / or add new pre-set process parameters, or Block 208 may be executed periodically, e.g., when a degree of confidence is achieved in the identified sub-set of variable process parameters.

[0257] The sub-set of variable process parameters may be identifier for the entire formation process.

[0258] In embodiments, where the container formation system 4 is arranged as a series of stations 40, with each station performing a different stage of the formation process, the sub-set of variable process parameters can be determined for one or more of the stations. By implementing a subset of parameters to be determined for one or several stations (rather than for the whole process), stations can be individually analysed and optimised, e.g., by control of the input process parameters or to derive additional pre-set process parameters for the associated station. Moreover, by splitting the processing and analysis by station, a likelihood of finding correlations in data may be increased. Moreover, one or more of the test processes can be applied to a container and the effect at each station individually analysed, for example a query may be raised “determine sub-set of variable process parameters effecting container geometry at station 2” by means of considering data from a geometry test. [Example 1 - Test process as Evaluation Process]

[0259] For the evaluation process implemented as a test process by the aforedescribed test system 10, examples of a predetermined condition associated with an acceptability of use include: if one or more test process parameters, which are identified as key parameters effecting the predetermined condition have values that are within a threshold or cross a threshold value. The threshold can be determined based on a design condition or on the results of a test process performed on another container. The test process parameter may also be a Boolean operator, e.g., a pass or fail condition for the test, which can be considered a result of the test. The test process parameters typically comprise variable test process parameters, which may vary based on the container, e.g., as opposed to input test process parameters that are used to control the preparation process.

[0260] In a first example, the test process is the aforedescribed container leakage test. The test process parameter can be one or more of: an internal pressure for which leakage is establish, and; a leakage rate for an applied predetermined pressure. The predetermined condition associated with an acceptability of use can be if said internal pressure or a leakage rate is within a threshold or crosses a threshold value. The test process parameter may also be a Boolean operator, including a pass or fail condition for the leakage test, e.g., if the internal pressure of leakage or rate were acceptable or not.

[0261] For the first example, it may be identified (e.g., with large data sets and machine learning) that the variable process parameters effecting these test process parameters for the leakage test may be those related to formation of the container, and can include one or more of: former parameters (capsule), including piston force and / or displacement history, piston position, former identifier, former calibration parameters, machine identifier; bonding parameters (packet) including pressing force and bonding parameters (e.g., welding energy, time, temperature).

[0262] In a second example, the first example is adapted for the previously described burst test. The test process parameters can be a mechanical force applied to the container to effect rupture. The predetermined condition associated with an acceptability of use can be if said mechanical force applied is within a threshold or crosses a threshold value. The test process parameter may also be a Boolean operator, including a pass or fail condition for the test, e.g., if the mechanical force for rupture was acceptable or not. The variable process parameters effecting these test process parameters for the burst test may be those related to formation of the container, and can include those listed for the leakage test. In a third example, the test process is a geometry test, in which the test process parameters are the thickness of the flange portion of a capsule (or in the example of the packet the bonded edge). Other geometries may also be considered. The predetermined condition associated with an acceptability of use can be if said geometry is within a threshold or crosses a threshold value. The test process parameter may also be a Boolean operator, including a pass or fail condition for the test, e.g., if the geometry was acceptable or not. The variable process parameters effecting these test process parameters for the geometry test may be those related to formation of the container, and can include those listed for the leakage test.

[0263] In a fourth example, the test process is an extraction test, which can be implemented by a beverage or foodstuff preparation machine 12, which is not located at a customer location, instead said machine can be operated by the manufacturer, e.g., at the location of the container formation system 4, or other manufacture location. Examples of this implementation are provided in the following section, and for brevity are not repeated.

[0264] In a fifth example, the test process is a container weight test, in which the test process parameters are a weight of the container and / or the precursor material said container contains. The predetermined condition associated with an acceptability of use can be if said weight is within a threshold or crosses a threshold value, e.g., for a predetermined fill level of precursor material. The test process parameter may also be a Boolean operator, including a pass or fail condition for the test, e.g., if the weight was acceptable or not.

[0265] For the fifth example, it may be identified (e.g., with large data sets and machine learning) that the variable process parameters effecting these test process parameters for the weight test may be those related to formation of the container (e.g., those which may effect fill volume), and can include one or more of: former parameters (capsule), including piston force and / or displacement history, piston position, former identifier, former calibration parameters, machine identifier; bonding parameters (packet) including pressing force and bonding parameters (e.g., welding energy, time, temperature).

[0266] For the fifth example, it may be identified (e.g., with large data sets and machine learning) that the variable process parameters effecting these test process parameters for the weight test may be those related to filling of the container (e.g., those which may the transmission of the precursor material into the container), and can include one or more of: filling parameters, including one or more of, rotation turns of auger, compaction force, hopper parameters, including fill level, compaction parameters, including compaction force. [Example 2 - Preparation process as Evaluation Process]

[0267] For the evaluation process implemented as a preparation process by the aforedescribed beverage or foodstuff preparation machine 12, examples of a predetermined condition associated with an acceptability of use include: if one or more preparation process parameters, which are identified as key parameters effecting the predetermined condition have values that are within a threshold or cross a threshold value. The threshold can be determined based on a design condition or on the results of a preparation process performed on another container. The preparation process parameter may also be a Boolean operator, e.g., a pass or fail condition for the preparation process, which can be considered a result of the preparation process.

[0268] The preparation process parameters typically comprise variable preparation process parameters, which may vary based on the container, e.g., as opposed to input preparation process parameters that are used to control the preparation process. The preparation process parameters can include one or more of: code reading process parameters; processing parameters used by a processing unit for processing the container; container ejection parameters, and; a user input into a user interface, examples of which are provided following.

[0269] In a first example, the preparation process parameter is the processing parameter, for example a pressure to drive a particular fluid flow rate through the container. The predetermined condition associated with an acceptability of use can be if said pressure is within a threshold or crosses a threshold value. The preparation process parameter may also be a Boolean operator, e.g., a pass or fail condition for the process, e.g., if too high pressure was required, the value maybe a fail condition. It may be identified (e.g., with large data sets and machine learning) that the variable process parameters effecting these this preparation process parameter are those related to one or more of: container weight parameters; degree of compaction of the precursor material, and; filling of interior volume with precursor material.

[0270] In a second example, the preparation process parameter is the code reading parameter, for example a force applied to a container to achieve a particular displacement for reading of the code. The predetermined condition associated with an acceptability of use can be if said force is within a threshold or crosses a threshold value. The preparation process parameter may also be a Boolean operator, e.g., a pass or fail condition for the process, e.g., if too high force was required, the value maybe a fail condition. It may be identified (e.g., with large data sets and machine learning) that the variable process parameters effecting this preparation process parameter are those related to one or more of: container material parameters, and; material processing (e.g., sheet material processing, which may include feeding.

[0271] In a third example, the preparation process parameter is the container ejection parameter, for example a position of the container processing unit to achieve container ejection. The predetermined condition associated with an acceptability of use can be if said position is within a threshold or crosses a threshold value for ejection. The preparation process parameter may also be a Boolean operator, e.g., a pass or fail condition for the process, e.g., if too high displacement was required, the value maybe a fail condition. It may be identified (e.g., with large data sets and machine learning) that the variable process parameters effecting this preparation process parameter are one of more of: those related to container geometric parameters, e.g. flange portion thickness, and; those related to filling of interior volume with precursor material.

[0272] In a fourth example, the preparation process parameter is the user input parameter, for example a quality rating for a beverage, which is input by a user into a user interface (e.g., a user interface of the machine 12 or of a peripheral device 30) or selected by the user interface. The predetermined condition associated with an acceptability of use can be if said quality rating is within a threshold or crosses a threshold value. The preparation process parameter may also be a Boolean operator, e.g., a pass or fail condition for the process, e.g., if the quality was unacceptable, the value maybe a fail condition. It may be identified (e.g., with large data sets and machine learning) that the variable process parameters effecting this preparation process parameter are those related to one or more of: those related to filling and sealing of the interior volume with precursor material; container / precursor material weight parameters; degree of compaction of the precursor material.

[0273] In embodiments, the beverage or foodstuff preparation machine 12 is arranged to execute different preparation processes on the container, with different input preparation process parameters to control the processing unit 80, to prepare different beverage or foodstuff types. In such an example, the preparation process parameters that are stored in association with the electronic record of the identifier (e.g., in addition to any of the examples above) can include the beverage or foodstuff type. The system electrical circuitry 20 may be configured to determine if there is a dependence on a different beverage or foodstuff types and the set of variable process parameters.

[0274] In a further example, the system comprises a plurality of different beverage or foodstuff preparation machine types. A preparation process parameter can include a machine type, which can be stored on the database in association with the electronic record of the identifier of the container that was processed by the machine. The electrical circuitry may in such instances determine links between process parameters (e.g., the sub-set of variable process parameters) and machine types. In an example, a customer with a particular machine type may be supplied containers with variable process parameters optimised for that machine type.

[0275] It will be appreciated that any of the disclosed methods (or corresponding apparatuses, programs, data carriers, etc.) may be carried out by either a host or client, depending on the specific implementation (i.e. , the disclosed methods / apparatuses are a form of communication(s), and as such, may be carried out from either ‘point of view’, i.e., in corresponding to each other fashion). Furthermore, it will be understood that the terms “receiving” and “transmitting” encompass “inputting” and “outputting” and are not limited to an RF context of transmitting and receiving radio waves. Therefore, for example, a chip or other device or component for realizing embodiments could generate data for output to another chip, device or component, or have as an input data from another chip, device or component, and such an output or input could be referred to as “transmit” and “receive” including gerund forms, that is, “transmitting” and “receiving”, as well as such “transmitting” and “receiving” within an RF context.

[0276] As used in this specification, any formulation used of the style “at least one of A, B or C”, and the formulation “at least one of A, B and C” use a disjunctive “or” and a disjunctive “and” such that those formulations comprise any and all joint and several permutations of A, B, C, that is, A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B in any order, A and C in any order, B and C in any order and A, B, C in any order. There may be more or less than three features used in such formulations.

[0277] In the claims, any reference signs placed between parentheses shall not be construed as limiting the claim. The word ‘comprising’ does not exclude the presence of other elements or steps then those listed in a claim. Furthermore, the terms “a” or “an,” as used herein, are defined as one or more than one. Also, the use of introductory phrases such as “at least one” and “one or more” in the claims should not be construed to imply that the introduction of another claim element by the indefinite articles "a" or "an" limits any particular claim containing such introduced claim element to inventions containing only one such element, even when the same claim includes the introductory phrases "one or more" or "at least one" and indefinite articles such as "a" or "an." The same holds true for the use of definite articles. Unless stated otherwise, terms such as “first” and “second” are used to arbitrarily distinguish between the elements such terms describe. Thus, these terms are not necessarily intended to indicate temporal or other prioritization of such elements. The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used to advantage.

[0278] Unless otherwise explicitly stated as incompatible, or the physics or otherwise of the embodiments, example or claims prevent such a combination, the features of the foregoing embodiments and examples, and of the following claims may be integrated together in any suitable arrangement, especially ones where there is a beneficial effect in doing so. This is not limited to only any specified benefit, and instead may arise from an “ex post facto” benefit. This is to say that the combination of features is not limited by the described forms, particularly the form (e.g., numbering) of the example(s), embodiment(s), or dependency of the claim(s). Moreover, this also applies to the phrase “in one embodiment”, “according to an embodiment” and the like, which are merely a stylistic form of wording and are not to be construed as limiting the following features to a separate embodiment to all other instances of the same or similar wording. This is to say, a reference to ‘an’, ‘one’ or ‘some’ embodiment(s) may be a reference to any one or more, and / or all embodiments, or combination(s) thereof, disclosed. Also, similarly, the reference to “the” embodiment may not be limited to the immediately preceding embodiment.

[0279] As used herein, any machine executable instructions, or compute readable media, may carry out a disclosed method, and may therefore be used synonymously with the term method, or each other.

[0280] The foregoing description of one or more implementations provides illustration and description, but is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the scope of the invention to the precise form disclosed. Modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teachings or may be acquired from practice of various implementations of the present disclosure.

[0281] LIST OF REFERENCES

[0282] 2 System (for formation of pre-portioned containers containing precursor material)

[0283] 4 Container formation system

[0284] 22 Formation system electrical circuitry

[0285] 40 Stations

[0286] 42a - f station

[0287] 44 Step

[0288] 46 Slot

[0289] 6 Container

[0290] Capsule - Example 1

[0291] 56 Closing member

[0292] 44 Code

[0293] 58 Body portion 60 Flange portion

[0294] Packet - Example 2

[0295] 60 Body portion

[0296] 62 Sheet material

[0297] 64 Seams

[0298] 68 Opening

[0299] 70 Identifier

[0300] 8 Electrical circuitry

[0301] 20 System electrical circuitry

[0302] 12 Beverage / Foodstuff preparation machine

[0303] 26 Machine control electrical circuitry

[0304] 80 Processing unit

[0305] 82 Reading system

[0306] 10 Test system

[0307] 24 Test system control electrical circuitry

[0308] 90 Test stations

[0309] 91 - Test reading system

[0310] 92a - c Test station

[0311] 28 Server system

[0312] 30 Peripheral device

[0313] 32 Computer network

Claims

CLAIMS1. A system for formation of single serving pre-portioned containers containing precursor material for processing by a beverage or foodstuff machine for preparing a beverage or potable foodstuff from the precursor material, the system comprising: a container formation system for execution of a container formation process, in which a single serving pre-portioned container is at least partially formed with one or more pre-set process parameters, which are fixed parameters associated with the single serving pre-portioned container, and; system electrical circuitry for acquisition of a set of variable process parameters, which are associated with the formation process, wherein the system electrical circuitry is configured to: for a single serving pre-portioned container, associate the acquired set of variable process parameters with an electronic record of an identifier, the identifier being physically associated with the container; acquire one or more preparation process parameters, which are associated with the preparation process(s), and to determine from the preparation process parameters the preset condition of acceptability of use of the single serving pre-portioned container; associate the preparation process parameters and / or a result of the determined condition of acceptability of use of the container with the electronic record of the identifier of the single serving pre-portioned container.

2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the system electrical circuitry to identify from one or more preparation processes performed on the container by one or more end user beverage or foodstuff machine(s) a sub-set of the variable process parameters that are associated with a condition of acceptability of use of the container.

2.

3. The system of claim 1 or 2, wherein the beverage or foodstuff preparation machine includes an identifier reading system for reading an identifier from the single serving preportioned container, and the system electrical circuitry is configured to: acquire the identifier of a single serving pre-portioned container from the identifier reading system, and;54associate the preparation process parameters with the electronic record of the identifier of the single serving pre-portioned container by retrieving said electronic record of the read identifier and assigning the preparation process parameters thereto.

4. The system of any preceding claim, wherein the beverage or foodstuff machine(s) are arranged at an end user location remote from the container formation system.

5. The system of any preceding claim, wherein the container formation system executes the container formation process to form the single serving pre-portioned container of a flexible type or at least partly made of flexible material.

6. The system of any preceding claim, wherein the preparation process parameters comprise parameters relating to one or more of:1) a code reading process parameter(s);2) a processing parameter(s) associated with a processing unit for processing the container;3) a container ejection parameter(s), and;4) a user input parameter(s), which are input into / selected by a user interface, the input parameter(s) related to a quality and / or formation of the beverage or foodstuff produced from the container.

7. The system of any preceding claim, wherein the beverage or foodstuff preparation machine is arranged to execute different preparation processes on the container, with different input process parameters, to prepare different beverage or foodstuff types, and a preparation process parameter includes a beverage or foodstuff type, and the system electrical circuitry is configured to: determine a dependence on a different beverage or foodstuff types and the sub-set of variable process parameters.

8. The system of any preceding claim, wherein a code of the container encodes preparation information for executing the preparation process on the container and the identifier.

9. The system of any preceding claim comprising one or more containers formed by the system and one or more beverage or foodstuff machines to execute the preparation process.5510. A method of forming single serving pre-portioned containers containing precursor material for processing by a beverage or foodstuff machine for preparing a beverage or potable foodstuff from the precursor material, the method comprising: executing a container formation process, by a container formation system, in which a single serving pre-portioned container is at least partially formed with one or more pre-set process parameters, which are fixed parameters associated with the single serving pre-portioned container; acquiring, by a system electrical circuitry, a set of variable process parameters, which are associated with the formation process; associating, for a single serving pre-portioned container, the acquired set of variable process parameters with an electronic record of an identifier, the identifier being physically associated with the container; acquiring one or more preparation process parameters, which are associated with the preparation process(s), and to determine from the preparation process parameters the preset condition of acceptability of use of the single serving pre-portioned container; associating the preparation process parameters and / or a result of the determined condition of acceptability of use of the container with the electronic record of the identifier of the single serving pre-portioned container.

11. Electrical circuitry or a computer program, which is executable on one or more processors, to control a system for formation of a container to implement the method of claim 10.

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