Beverage or foodstuff preparation system and related container

Abstract

A system comprising a container and a machine for preparing a beverage and / or foodstuff thereof, the container for containing a precursor material for use with the machine, the container comprising: a body portion having a storage portion for storage of the precursor material and a flange portion having a rim, at least the flange portion formed of a moulded pulp-based material, and having a dry state in which no liquid is absorbed by the moulded pulp-based material, and a wet state in which liquid is absorbed by the moulded pulp-based material, the machine including: a container processing unit for processing precursor material of the container, the container processing unit comprising: a brewing unit having a holding portion arranged to hold the storage portion of the container, and a closing portion arranged to close the holding portion around a held container, the holding portion and closing portion relatively movable to transfer a container between receiving position a processing position; a retaining arrangement having hooking members arranged to retain the rim of the flange portion to transfer the container from the processing position; an ejection arrangement with ejectors for ejection of the flange portion from the hooking members, and a supply channel for supply of a container to the brewing unit, the supply channel comprising stops to locate a container in a holding position, wherein a diameter D of the rim of the flange portion is selected to be: in the dry state within a first threshold range and in the wet state within a second threshold range.

Description

[0001] 19403-EP-EPA

[0002] BEVERAGE OR FOODSTUFF PREPARATION SYSTEM AND RELATED CONTAINER

[0003] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0004] The present disclosure relates to beverage or foodstuff preparation systems, with which a beverage or foodstuff is prepared from a pre-portioned capsule.

[0005] BACKGROUND

[0006] Systems for the preparation of a beverage comprise a beverage preparation machine and 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. As part of this preparation process, the capsule is guided through the machine by a series of complex interactions to load, process and eject the capsule by various mechanisms of the machine and principally a flange portion of the capsule. Processing of the capsule in this manner causes the at least partial extraction of the precursor material from the capsule as the beverage.

[0007] An example of such a system comprises the Nespresso Original capsule system. Said system comprises a Nespresso Original capsule, which is aluminium based, and a Nespresso Original machine configured for extracting coffee from said capsule. Said machine comprise a capsule processing unit, and example of which is described in WO2011 124484 A1 .

[0008] Due to the complex movement of the capsule through the machine and the exposure to pressurized, heated water, to date only an aluminium based capsule has been implemented with a high degree of reliability.

[0009] It would be desirable to be able to implement the capsule with other materials, e.g. for improved biodegradability. However, by changing the base material of the capsule from aluminium to a biodegradable material, e.g. paper, it has been found that said materials are prone to sticking, including a failed ejection in which the spent capsule remains in the machine, or cause other material related errors.

[0010] Therefore, in spite of the effort already invested in the development of said capsule further improvements are desirable. 19403-EP-EPA

[0011] SUMMARY

[0012] The present disclosure provides system comprising a container and a machine for preparing a beverage and / or foodstuff thereof.

[0013] In embodiments, the container is for containing a precursor material for use with the machine, the container comprising: a body portion having a storage portion for storage of the precursor material and a flange portion having a rim, at least the flange portion formed of a moulded pulp-based material, and having a dry state in which no liquid is absorbed by the moulded pulp-based material, and a wet state in which liquid is absorbed by the moulded pulp-based material.

[0014] In embodiments, the machine includes a container processing unit for processing precursor material of the container, the container processing unit comprising: a brewing unit having a holding portion arranged to hold the storage portion of the container, and a closing portion arranged to close the holding portion around a held container, the holding portion and closing portion relatively movable to transfer a container between receiving position a processing position ; a retaining arrangement having hooking members arranged to retain the rim of the flange portion to transfer the container from the container processing position; an ejection arrangement with ejectors for ejection of the flange portion from the hooking members, and a supply channel for supply of a container to the brewing unit, the supply channel comprising stops to locate a container in a holding position.

[0015] In embodiments, a diameter D (e.g. a maximum outer diameter) of the rim of the flange portion is selected to be: in the dry state within a first threshold range, which comprises being greater than or equal to a first predetermined value V1 , which may enable engagement with the stops of the supply channel (and optionally so that a tip of the hooking means can snap fit to an engaged position) and / or comprises being less than or equal to a second predetermined value V2, which may enable the rim to fit into a cavity of the hooking members (e.g. so that the container can be transferred and pressed into the processing position).

[0016] In embodiments, a diameter D (e.g. a maximum outer diameter) of the rim of the flange portion is selected to be: in the wet state, within a second threshold range, which comprises being greater than or equal to a third predetermined value V3 which may enable: engagement with the ejectors (e.g. such that the ejectors can engage the rim to translate the rim with the ejectors) and / to remove the container from an extraction plate of the closing member, and / or less than or equal to a fourth predetermined value V4, which may enable ejection the rim of the container from the cavity of the hooking members (e.g. such that the rim is small enough to enable ejection from the hooking 19403-EP-EPA members, including without sticking and with sufficient kinetic energy to enable its transfer at a particular velocity to an ejection channel).

[0017] By selecting the material of the flange portion and its geometry to ensure that the rim outer diameter of the flange portion is within the first threshold range when dry and a second threshold range when wet, it has been found that reliability of a preparation process may be increased, e.g. due to reduced blocking of the container in the container processing unit, which may preclude its correct ejection and / or a subsequent successful preparation process from being executed.

[0018] In particular, the threshold ranges(s) may ensure an increased weight of the processed container and the adaptive geometry characteristic of the material (caused by liquid absorption) are less likely to cause a condition of sticking due to tilting of the container in the container processing unit during ejection.

[0019] In embodiments, the first predetermined value V1 is less than the third predetermined value V3. In embodiments, the second predetermined value V2 is less than or equal to the fourth predetermined value V4.

[0020] By implementing the predetermined values within said ranges, with the first threshold range to have lower extremities than the second threshold range, material expansion due to wetting may be controlled to be within a range suitable for processing by the machine.

[0021] In embodiments, the first predetermined value V1 is 36.6 mm ± 0.1 % or 0.3% or 0.5%. In embodiment V1 is greater than 36.6 mm. In embodiments, the second predetermined value V2 is 37.6 mm ± 0.1% or 0.3% or 0.5%. In embodiment, V2 is 37.6 ± 0.1 mm. With said ranged, it has been found that reliability of a preparation process may be increased, e.g. due to convenient transfer of the container between positions in the container processing chamber.

[0022] In embodiments, the third predetermined value V3 is 36.7 mm ± 0.1% or 0.3% or 0.5%. In embodiment, V3 is 36.7 mm ± 0.1 mm. In embodiments, the fourth predetermined value V4 is 37.6 mm ± 0.1% or 0.3% or 0.5%. In embodiment, V4 is 37.6 ± 0.1 mm. By implementing the fourth and / or third predetermined value of this range it has been found that reliability of a preparation process may be increased, e.g. successful ejection of the container from hooking members by ejectors, including with sufficient release energy from said hooking members to avoid a condition of the ejected container becoming stuck in an ejection chamber. 19403-EP-EPA

[0023] In embodiments, the moulded pulp-material comprises cellulose fibres. By implementing cellulose fibres, the container may be subject to geometry changes between the wet and dry state, whilst being biodegradable.

[0024] In embodiments, the container comprises a barrier element providing a food safe barrier (e.g. for oxygen and / or moisture) to the precursor material stored in the storage portion. The barrier element is for example a liner member or a coating lining an exterior of the body portion and / or an interior of the storage portion.

[0025] In embodiments, the dry state is determined at ambient conditions. As used herein the term “ambient conditions” may refer to one or more of: a temperature of 10 - 40 degrees C; a relative humidity of 50 - 95%, and a pressure 950 hPa - 1050 hPa.

[0026] In embodiments, the wet state is defined as during or subsequent (e.g. within 30 seconds to one or two minutes subsequent) to exposure of the container to water from a preparation process. As used herein the term “water from a preparation process” may refer to water conditions comprising one or more of: a water temperature of 80 - 100 degrees C; a water pressure of 10 — 25 bar; for a duration of 15 - 25 seconds (e.g. a typical duration of a preparation process), it may also refer to a fully saturated state of the material.

[0027] In embodiments, with the capsule arranged in the processing position, the container processing unit is arranged to expose to liquid (e.g. liquid from the preparation process supplied by a fluid condition system) an exterior of the storage portion and the flange portion to hydraulically seal the container in the processing position. Said seal may be against an extraction plate of a closing member of the container processing unit.

[0028] In embodiments, the fourth predetermined value V4 and / or third predetermined value V3 is selected to enable projection of the container from the hooking members with an energy above a predetermined amount for ejection of the container to an ejection channel of the container processing unit. By selecting said predetermined value to permit a snap fit of the hooking member to the rim to transition from an engaged to a disengaged position, with the container to be projected with a kinetic energy above a particular amount (e.g. energy supplied by the ejector / snap fit), said energy may facilitate its transmission to and through the ejection channel.

[0029] In embodiments, the container processing unit includes an ejection channel to outlet a spent container from the container processing unit. In embodiments, the ejection channel is arranged to transfer the container via gravity from the brewing unit. 19403-EP-EPA

[0030] In embodiments, any one or more of the first to fourth predetermined values are selected to reduce a likelihood of a condition of: a container resting (e.g. in a stationary position) against the ejection channel (e.g. a part of the ejection channel) and / or the ejectors (e.g. at an angle / tilt to a depth direction), and / or the container not being successfully ejected by the ejectors from the hooking members. The reduction of the container being retained in the beverage machine is at least 20%.

[0031] By specifically selecting the dimensions of the container (e.g. in the wet state) to avoid a condition of resting against the outlet channel and the ejector, a “tilt” condition of failed container ejection from the container processing unit may be avoided.

[0032] In embodiments, the machine includes a supply channel arranged for supply of the container to the brewing unit. In embodiments, the supply channel is arranged to transfer the container via gravity to the brewing unit. In embodiments, the closing member of the container processing unit includes an extraction plate. In embodiments, the extraction plate is arranged to perforate the container (e.g. a closing member / membrane thereof) and produce an outlet for liquid in the container.

[0033] In embodiments, the body portion of the container is moulded. In embodiments, the rim of the flange portion is cut to achieve the first to fourth predetermined values. In embodiments the container is biodegradable as defined with reference to EN 13432:2000 (including anaerobic conditions, disintegration etc) and / or EN 14046:2004 (aerobic conditions).

[0034] The present disclosure provides a container for use with a machine for preparing a beverage and / or foodstuff according to any preceding embodiment or another embodiment disclosed herein, the container for containing precursor material and comprising: a body portion having a storage portion for storage of the precursor material and a flange portion having a rim, at least the flange portion formed of a moulded pulp-based material, and having a dry state in which no liquid is absorbed by the moulded pulp-based material, and a wet state in which liquid is absorbed by the moulded pulp-based material, wherein a diameter D of the rim of the flange portion is selected to be: in the dry state within a first threshold range, which comprises being greater than a first predetermined value V1 to enable engagement with the stops of the supply channel, and comprising being less than a second predetermined value V2, to enable the rim to fit into a cavity of the hooking members; in the wet state within a second threshold range, which comprises being greater than a third predetermined value V3 and less than a fourth predetermined value V4 to enable engagement with the ejectors and ejection the rim of the container from the cavity of the hooking members, 19403-EP-EPA

[0035] The present disclosure provides, use of the container of any preceding embodiment or another embodiment disclosed herein for a machine as disclosed herein.

[0036] The present disclosure provides a method of preparing a beverage and / or foodstuff from precursor material of a container. The method may be implemented with any preceding embodiment, or another embodiment disclosed herein.

[0037] In embodiments, the method comprises: supplying a container to a brewing unit of a container processing unit from a supply channel; arranging the container, in a dry state, in a holding position in the brewing unit; transferring the container, in the dry state, to a processing position and engaging hooking members of a retaining arrangement with a rim of a flange portion of the container, wherein a diameter D of the rim of the flange portion is formed of moulded pulp-based material and is selected to be: in the dry state within a first threshold range, which comprises being greater than or equal to a first predetermined value V1 to enable engagement with stops of the supply channel, and comprises being less than or equal to a second predetermined value V2, to enable the rim to fit into a cavity of the hooking members.

[0038] In embodiments, the method comprises supplying liquid to the container in the processing position to process the container.

[0039] In embodiments, the method comprises: transferring the container, in the wet state, from the processing position by engagement of the hooking members the rim of a flange portion of the container; ejecting the container, in the wet state, from the hooking members by engaging an ejector of an ejection arrangement with the rim; wherein a diameter D of the rim of the flange portion is formed of moulded pulp-based material and is selected to be: in the wet state within a second threshold range, which comprises being greater than or equal to a third predetermined value V3 and less than or equal to a fourth predetermined value V4 to enable engagement with the ejectors and ejection the rim of the container from the cavity of the hooking members.

[0040] The present disclosure provides a method of forming a container for use with a machine for preparing a beverage and / or foodstuff. The method may be implemented with any preceding embodiment, or another embodiment disclosed herein.

[0041] In embodiments, the method comprises: forming the flange portion of the container of moulded pulp-based material to have a diameter D of a rim selected to be: in the dry state within a first threshold range, which comprises being greater than or equal to a first predetermined value V1 to enable engagement with a stops of a supply channel of the machine, and comprising being 19403-EP-EPA less than or equal to a second predetermined value V2, to enable a rim of the flange portion to fit into a cavity of hooking members of the machine; in the wet state within a second threshold range, which comprises being greater than or equal to a third predetermined value V3 and less than or equal to a fourth predetermined value V4 to enable engagement with ejectors of the machine and ejection the rim of the container from the cavity of the hooking members.

[0042] In embodiments, the method of comprise forming the container by moulding, e.g. by a wet forming process. In embodiments, the method comprises subsequently (e.g. after moulding) cutting the rim portion when in the dry state.

[0043] 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.

[0044] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES

[0045] 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.

[0046] Figure 1 is a block system diagram showing an embodiment system for preparation of a beverage or foodstuff or a precursor thereof.

[0047] Figure 2 is a block system diagram showing an embodiment machine of the system of figure 1 .

[0048] Figure 3 is an illustrative diagram showing an embodiment fluid conditioning system of the machine of figure 2.

[0049] Figures 4A and 4H are illustrative diagrams showing an embodiment container processing system of the machine of figure 2.

[0050] Figure 5 is a block diagram showing embodiment control electrical circuitry of the machine of figure 2. 19403-EP-EPA

[0051] Figure 6 is flow diagram showing an embodiment preparation process, which is performed by the system of figure 1 .

[0052] Figure 7 is an illustrative cross-sectional diagram showing an embodiment container of the system of figure 1.

[0053] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view showing an embodiment of the container of figure 7 and a hooking member of a retention arrangement of the machined of figure 2.

[0054] Figures 9 is an illustrative diagram showing an embodiment container processing system of the machine of figure 2 with a container unsuccessfully ejected.

[0055] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0056] 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.

[0057] The present disclosure may be better understood in view of the following explanations:

[0058] As used herein, the term “machine” may refer to an electrically operated device that: can prepare, from a precursor material, a beverage and / or foodstuff. 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).

[0059] As used herein, the term "container" may refer to any configuration to contain the precursor material, e.g. as a single-serving, pre-portioned amount. The container may have a maximum capacity such that it can only contain a 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. The container may be configured for operation with a 19403-EP-EPA container processing unit of the machine, e.g. it may include a flange for alignment and directing the container through said unit. The container may include a rupturing portion, which is arranged to rupture when subject to a particular pressure to deliver the beverage / foodstuff. The container may have a membrane for closing the container. The container may have a frustoconical form. The material may be selected such that it is: food-safe; it can withstand the pressure and / or temperature of a preparation process. The container may be defined as a capsule, wherein a capsule may have an internal volume of 20 - 100 ml. The capsule may include a coffee capsule, e.g. a Nespresso® capsule (including a Classic capsule).

[0060] As used herein, the term “external device” or "external electronic device" or “peripheral device” may include electronic components external to the machine, e.g. those arranged at a same location as the machine or those remote from the machine, which communicate with the machine over a computer network. The external device may comprise a communication interface for communication with the machine and / or a server system. The external device may comprise devices including: a smartphone; a PDA; a video game controller; a tablet; a laptop; or other like device.

[0061] As used herein, the term “server system” may refer to electronic components external to the machine, e.g. those arranged at a remote location from the machine, which communicate with the machine over a computer network. The server system may comprise a communication interface for communication with the machine and / or the external device. The server system can include: a networked-based computer (e.g. a remote server); a cloud-based computer; any other server system.

[0062] As used herein, the term “system” or "beverage or foodstuff preparation system" may refer to a combination of the beverage or foodstuff preparation machine and the container and optionally a server system or external device.

[0063] 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 include one or a combination of: tea; coffee; other like substance. As used herein, the term "foodstuff" may refer to any potable substance.

[0064] 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 roasted and ground coffee. 19403-EP-EPA

[0065] As used herein, the term "fluid" (in respect of fluid supplied by a fluid conditioning system) may ref to water. As used herein, the term "conditioning" in respect of a fluid may refer to changing a physical property of the fluid and can include heating and / or pressurisation e.g. to a brewing pressure.

[0066] 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: heating; soaking; steeping; extraction; pressurisation, or other processing step. The container processing unit may implement one or more of a: container processing position; a container holding position; a pre-ejection position, and ejection position. As used herein the term “container processing position” may refer to a position of the container in the container processing unit / the container processing unit itself, in which the container is arranged for proceeding, e.g. it may be sealed in a brewing unit and arranged to receive fluid from a fluid conditioning system. As used herein the term “container holding position” may refer to a position of the container in the container processing unit / the container processing unit itself, in which a container is held in a supply channel ready for capturing by the brewing unit. As used herein the term “pre-ejection position” may refer to a position of the container in the container processing unit / the container processing unit itself, in which the container is separated from an extraction plate ready for ejection from a container holding portion of the brewing unit. As used herein the term “ejection position” may refer to a position of the container in the container processing unit / the container processing unit itself, in which the container is ejected from a container holding portion of the brewing unit by means of an ejection arrangement.

[0067] As used herein, the term "preparation process" may refer to a process to prepare a beverage or foodstuff from a precursor material. A preparation process may refer to the processes electrical circuitry executes and / or a user manually executed to control the container processing unit to process said precursor material.

[0068] As used herein, the term "electrical circuitry" or "circuitry" or "control electrical circuitry" may refer to one or more hardware and / or software components, examples of which may include: one or more of an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC) or other programable logic; electronic / electrical componentry (which may include combinations of transistors, resistors, capacitors, inductors etc); one or more processors (e.g. circuitry structure of the processor); a non-transitory memory (e.g. implemented by one or more memory devices), that may store one 19403-EP-EPA 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 (e.g. a server system and / or external device) which are in communication with each other over a computer network via communication resources.

[0069] 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.

[0070] As used herein the term “moulded pulp-based” may refer to the or a portion of material forming the container which is one or more of: porous; fibrous; cellulosic; formed of cellulosic material; formed of natural cellulosic material; formed of reconstituted or regenerated cellulosic material; non-woven; is composed entirely of or is a composition of cellulosic pulp; formed of wood-pulp and is wet formed. A thickness of the moulded pulp-based material may be 0.5 - 0.15 mm, or .35 mm ± 10% or 20% and if subject to hornification then 0.15 - 0.20 mm ± 10% or 20% or 30% to both range extremities. The moulded pulp-based material may be 200-400 gsm. Examples of suitable pulp based material are provided in WO 2021 / 145764.

[0071] As used herein the term “non-woven” may refer to a fabric-like material which is not woven or knitted. A non-woven material may be made from bonded together fibres. As used herein the term “porous” may refer to material configured with interstices to transmit water (or other liquid) therethrough. As used herein the term “fibrous” may refer to material comprised of fibres, which may be present in one or more of the material constituents.

[0072] As used herein the term “cellulosic”, “cellulose-based” or “cellulosic material” may refer to conventionally woody (from soft wood and / or hard wood species) and / or non-woody materials. These materials may be bleached and unbleached and may include a regenerated or reconstituted cellulose. Examples of softwood are Pine, Spruce, Redwood etc. Examples of 19403-EP-EPA hardwood are Maple, Oak, Ash, Eucalyptus, Maple, Birch, Walnut, Beech etc. Examples of non- woody origin cellulose-based material are rice, manila hemp, sisal, jute, bamboo, maize, sugar cane, sugar cane residues (bagasse), banana peels, coffee ground.

[0073] As used herein the term “natural cellulosic material” may refer to conventionally woody materials or non-woody materials, which are not regenerated. As used herein the term “reconstituted or regenerated cellulosic material” may refer natural cellulosic material subject to processing that comprises reconstitution or regeneration, examples include rayon and lyocell.

[0074] As used herein the term “wood pulp” may refer to a lignocellulosic fibrous material, which may be prepared by mechanical or chemical separation of cellulose fibers from one or more of wood, fiber crops, paper, or rags. As used herein the term “wet formed” may refer to a process of forming from an aqueous solution of fibers. The aqueous solution of fibers may be heated and pressed in a mold to set the material and remove water therefrom. As used herein the term “dry formed” may refer to a process of forming not using aqueous solution of fibers.

[0075] As used herein the term “retaining arrangement” may refer to an arrangement of the container processing unit, which may be configured to retain the container in a position (e.g. the processing position and / or the ejection / pre-ejection position) and transfer the container between said positions. The retaining arrangement may comprise hooking members. As used herein the term “hooking members” may refer to an arrangement that is configured to engage e.g. by hooking, a portion of the container to prevent a spent capsule from remaining attached to an extraction plate of a closing member when the brewing unit is re-opened. Specifically, the hooking members effect pulling of the container to detach it form the extraction plate.

[0076] As used herein the term “ejection arrangement” may refer to an arrangement of the container processing unit, which may be configured to eject / or initiate ejection a container from the container processing unit by disengaging of the hooking members from hooking the container. The ejection arrangement may comprise ejectors to effect said disengaging.

[0077] [General system description]

[0078] Referring to figure 1 , the system 2 comprises a machine 4, a container 6, server system 8 and a peripheral device 10. The server system 8 is in communication with the machine 4 via a computer network 12. The peripheral device 10 is in communication with the machine 4 via the computer network 12. In variant embodiments, which are not illustrated: the peripheral device and / or server system is omitted. Although the computer network 12 is illustrated as the same between the 19403-EP-EPA machine 4, server system 8 and peripheral device 10, other configurations are possible, including: a different computer network for intercommunication between each device: the server system communicates with the machine via the peripheral device rather than directly. In a particular example: the peripheral device communicates with the machine via a communication interface, e.g. with a Bluetooth™ protocol, and the server system communicates with the machine via a via a wireless interface, e.g. with a IEE 802.11 standard, and also via the internet.

[0079] [Machine]

[0080] Referring to figure 2, the machine 4 comprises: a processing unit 14 for processing the container 6 (not illustrated in figure 2), and electrical circuitry 16. The electrical circuitry 16 uses the preparation information (which can be stored on an electrician memory of the electrical circuitry) to control the processing unit 14 to execute a preparation process, in which precursor material of the container 6 is process to a beverage or foodstuff or a precursor thereof. In variant embodiments: the processing unit may also be manually operated (e.g. by a user actuated loading and / or ejection mechanism) which may operate fully manually or partially manually in combination with the electrical circuitry (e.g. with said manual mechanism and electrical circuitry to control a fluid conditioning system, as will be discussed.

[0081] [First example of Processing unit]

[0082] Referring to figures 3 and 4A, a first example of the processing unit 14 comprises a container processing unit 20 and a fluid conditioning system 22. The container processing unit 20 is arranged to process the container 6 to derive a beverage or foodstuff from precursor material (not illustrated) therein. The fluid conditioning system 22 conditions fluid supplied to the container processing unit 20.

[0083] [Fluid conditioning system]

[0084] Referring to figure 3, the fluid conditioning system 22 includes a reservoir 24; pump 26; heat exchanger 28, and an outlet 30 for the conditioned fluid. The reservoir 24 contains fluid, typically sufficient for multiple preparation processes. The pump 26 displaces fluid from the reservoir 24, through the heat exchanger 28 and to the outlet 30 (which is connected to the container processing unit 20 as will be discussed). The pump 26 can be implement as any suitable device to drive fluid, including: a reciprocating; a rotary pump; other suitable arrangement. The heat exchanger 28 is implemented to heat the fluid, and can include: an in-line, thermo-block type heater; a heating element to heat the fluid directly in the reservoir; other suitable arrangement. In 19403-EP-EPA variant embodiments, which are not illustrated: the pump is omitted, e.g. the fluid is fed by gravity to the container processing unit or is pressurised by a mains water supply; the reservoir is omitted, e.g. water is supplied by a mains water supply; the heat exchanger is arranged to cool the fluid, e.g. it may include a refrigeration-type cycle heat pump); the heat exchanger is omitted, e.g. a mains water supply supplies the water at the desired temperature.

[0085] [Container processing unit]

[0086] Brewing unit Referring to figures 4A - 4H, the container processing unit 20 includes: a brewing unit 34 that comprises container holding portion 36 and a closing portion 38, which are translationally movable relative each other in a global longitudinal direction 100 to implement various states of operation, with the holding portion 36 to include a cavity to correspond in shape to a storage portion 64 of the container 6 and the closing portion 38 to correspond in shape to a flange portion 66 and a closing portion 60 of the container 6 such that the flange portion 66 is pressed between a rim of the holding portion 36 and the closing portion 38 to seal the container 6 in the brewing unit 34 (as will be discussed); a supply inlet channel 40 to direct a user supplied container 6 in a gravitationally fed global depth direction 104 to the brewing unit 34, and an ejection channel 42 for ejection of a spent container 6 from the brewing unit 34.

[0087] Different operative states of the container processing unit 20 comprise:

[0088] 1 ) A container receiving state (figure 4A), in which the container holding portion 36 and a closing portion 38 of the brewing unit 34 are separated in the longitudinal direction 100 in a container receiving position to enable insertion of the container 6 supplied from the inlet channel 40 therebetween.

[0089] Specifically, the inlet channel 40 includes stops 48, which are arranged to retain the container 6 in a holding position via engagement with the flange portion 66. Guide rails (not illustrated) correspond in shape to and guide the flange portion to the stops 48. The holding position is such that as the brewing unit 34 is moved to the closed position (discussed following) it is closed around the container 6.

[0090] 2) A container processing state (figure 4B), in which the holding portion 36 and a closing portion 38 of the brewing unit 34 are translated relative each other in the longitudinal direction 100 from the container receiving position (figure 4A) together to a closed container processing position in which the brewing unit 34 is closed around the container 8. 19403-EP-EPA

[0091] More specifically, referring to figures 4C and 4D, a retaining arrangement 43 of the holding portion 36 comprises hooking members 44. In the example there are two hooking members, which are positioned diametrical opposed relative the container 6. The hooking members 44 are arranged as a hook with a cavity formed of an elastically deformable material, e.g. rubber. The cavity is configured to correspond in shape to a rim of the flange portion 66, and hence is arrangeable in an engaged position (figure 4B - 4D) and a disengaged position (figure 4A) relative said rim. In variant embodiments, which are not illustrated, there are other numbers of hooking members.

[0092] As the container processing unit 20 transitions from the container receiving state to the container processing state, the hooking members 44 are pressed to snap fit from the disengaged position to the engaged position. The hooking members 44 hook around the flange portion 66 to retain the container 6 with the storage portion 64.

[0093] Referring to figures 4C, the holding portion 36 comprises a perforator 49, which is driven into the container 6 when transitioning from the container receiving state (figure 4A) to the container processing state (figure 4B). The perforator 49 perforates a base 84 of the storage portion 64 of the container 6 to enable fluid to be transferred via the outlet 30 of the fluid conditioning system 22 into the storage portion 64. The perforator 49 is arranged as perforation elements with a total cross-sectional area of 2 - 5 mm2(e.g. as experienced by the container, as defined in a plane aligned to the lateral direction 102 and depth direction 104, which may be referred to as an equivalent wetted area). The perforator 49 applies a combined force (i.e. through all of the perforation elements summed together) of 1 - 50 N or 2 - 20 N in the longitudinal direction 100 into a perforation region of the container. The perforation region can be perforated by various failure modes including incision and / or brittle fracture, as will be discussed. The perforator 49 comprises three blades, which are disposed circumferentially about the axis 106 of the container 6 as will be discussed. The perforation elements may integrate the outlet 30 (e.g. as an injector) or have a separate injector operatively coupled thereto. In variant embodiments, which are not illustrated: the perforator comprises other numbers of blades, e.g. 1 , 2 or 4; the perforator has a different total cross-sectional area, e.g. 1 - 10 mm2; the perforator applies a different force. The perforator 49 can be fixed to move with the holding portion 36 or independently actuatable, e.g. actuated by hydraulic pressure from the fluid conditioning system 22.

[0094] Referring to figure 4C, with the container in a processing position, the outlet 30 of the fluid conditioning system 22 (shown in figure 3) is operatively connected to the holding portion 36 and injects fluid into the container 6 in the container processing state. 19403-EP-EPA

[0095] The fluid is typically pressurised (e.g. at 10 - 20 Bar) and heated (e.g. at 50 - 98 degrees C). The pressure is increased over a predetermined amount of time until a pressure of a rupturing portion, which is the closing member of the capsule 6 reaches a threshold. This causes rupture of said member and the beverage to be dispensed to the beverage outlet (not illustrated) through the closing portion 38.

[0096] The closing portion 38 implements an extraction plate with apertures for outlet (not illustrated) of the beverage / food stuff from the storage portion 64. The outlet is fluidically connected to an outlet of the machine 4 (also not illustrated). When the fluid pressure (controlled by the pump 26 of the fluid conditioning system 22) in the storage portion 64 is increased to said threshold, the closing member 60 of the container 6 ruptures to effect said outlet.

[0097] 3) A container pre-ejection state (figure 4E), in which the holding portion 36 and a closing portion 38 of the brewing unit 34 are translated relative each other in the longitudinal direction 100 from the closed position to an open pre-ejection position. Specifically, the hooking members 44 (as discussed in association with figure 4C and 4D) retain the flange portion 66 of the capsule 6 to move with the holding portion 36 and therefore pull the closing member 60 of the container 6 from the closing member 38 of the of the brewing unit 34.

[0098] 4) A container ejection state (Figure 4F), in which the container 6 is ejected from the hooking members 44. Specifically, the container processing unit 20 includes an ejection arrangement 45. The ejection arrangement 45 comprises a sleeve 46 that sleeves the holding portion 36 and is independently translatable in the longitudinal direction 100 relative thereto. The ejection arrangement 45 includes ejectors 47 (as best seen in figure 4C and 4G). In the example there are ejectors 47, which are positioned proximal the hooking members 44. The ejectors 47 engage the flange portion 66 when transitioning from the pre-ejection state (figure 4E) to the container ejection state (Figure 4F) to push the flange portion 66 from the hooking members 44, hence from an engaged position to a disengaged position.

[0099] Referring to figure 4H), the container processing unit 20 is restored from the container ejection state (Figure 4F) to the container receiving state of (figure 4A). The container 6, that has been pushed from the hooking members 44 is released with sufficient energy for it to be transmitted to the ejection channel 42 through which it is transmitted. The energy may be above a predetermined amount sufficient to propel the container 6 at above a particular velocity into the ejection channel 42. 19403-EP-EPA

[0100] The brewing unit 34 can be actuator driven or manually movable between the aforementioned positions. Typically, the closing portion 38 remains in a fixed position relative a body of the machine 4 whilst the holding portion 36 is translated. In variant embodiments, the container processing unit can be alternatively implemented, e.g. with rotation between the holding portion 36 and a closing portion 38. An example of a suitable container processing unit is provided in WO2011124484 A1 .

[0101] [Control electrical circuitry]

[0102] Referring to figure 5, the electrical circuitry 16 is implemented as control electrical circuitry 48 to control the processing unit 14 to execute a preparation process. In the embodiment of figure 5, for illustrative purposes, the processing unit 14 is exemplified as comprising the container processing unit 20 and a fluid supply unit 22.

[0103] The electrical circuitry 16, 48 at least partially implements (e.g. in combination with hardware) an: input unit 50 to receive an input from a user confirming that the machine 4 is to execute a preparation process; a processor 52 to receive the input from the input unit 50 and to provide a control output to the processing unit 14, and a feedback system 54 to provide feedback to the processor 52 during the preparation process, which may be used to control the preparation process.

[0104] The input unit 50 is implemented as a user interface, which can include one or more of: buttons, e.g. a joystick button or press button; joystick; LEDs; graphic or character LDCs; graphical screen with touch sensing and / or screen edge buttons; other like device; a sensor to determine whether a container has been supplied to the machine by a user.

[0105] The feedback system 54 can implement one or more of the following or other feedback controlbased operations:

[0106] - a flow sensor to determine a flow rate / volume of the fluid to the outlet 30 of the fluid supply system 22, which may be used to meter the correct amount of fluid to the container 6 and thus regulate the power to the pump 26;

[0107] - a temperature sensor to determine a temperature of the fluid to the outlet 30 of the fluid supply unit 22, which may be used to ensure the temperature of fluid to the container 6 is at a target temperature and thus regulate the power to the heat exchanger 28; 19403-EP-EPA

[0108] - a level sensor to determine a level of fluid in the reservoir 24 as being sufficient for a preparation process;

[0109] - a position sensor to determine a position of the brewing unit 34 (e.g. a container receiving position or a container processing position).

[0110] It will be understood that the electrical circuitry 16, 48 is suitably adapted for the various examples of the processing unit 14, e.g. for an actuator driven or manually driven brewing unit 34.

[0111] [Preparation Process]

[0112] Referring to figure 6 and figures 4A - 4H, the execution of a process for preparing a beverage / foodstuff from precursor material is illustrated:

[0113] Block 70: a user supplies a container 6 to the machine 4, e.g. via the supply channel 40, with the container processing unit 14 in the container receiving state (figure 4A) such that the container is held in the holding position;

[0114] Block 72: the container processing unit 20 is moved to the container processing state (figure 4B) such that the container in the holding position is captured and the hooking members 44 engage the rim of the flange portion 66 as the container 6 is transitioned to the processing position and the container is perforated by the perforator 49;

[0115] Block 74: the electrical circuitry 16 (e.g. the input unit 50 thereof) receives a user instruction to prepare a beverage / foodstuff from precursor, and the electrical circuitry 16 (e.g. the processor 52) initiates said process;

[0116] Block 76: the electrical circuitry 16 controls the processing unit 14, e.g. the fluid conditioning system 22, to supply fluid to the perforated container 6. The fluid temperature, pressure, and time duration can be specified in preparation information stored on electrical memory of the electrical circuitry 16;

[0117] Block 78: the container processing unit 20 is moved to the container pre-ejection state (figure 4E). Specifically, the hooking members 44 drag the spent container 6 from the extraction plate of the closing member 38. The container processing unit 20 then is moved to the container ejection state (figure 4F) to eject the container 6. Specifically, the ejectors 47 engage the flange portion 66 to disengage it from the hooking members 44 and the release kinetic energy propels the container 6 to the ejection channel 42. 19403-EP-EPA

[0118] In variant embodiments, which are not illustrated: the above blocks can be executed in a different order, e.g. block 74 before block 70 or 72; some block can be omitted, e.g. where a machine stores a magazine of capsules block 70 can be omitted. As part of the preparation process, the electrical circuitry 16 can obtain additional preparation information via the computer network 12 from the server system 8 and / or peripheral device 10 using a communication interface (not illustrated) of the machine.

[0119] [Container]

[0120] Referring to figure 7, a container 6, that is for use with the processing unit 14 comprises: a closing member 60 and a body portion 62. The body portion 62 comprises a storage portion 64, and a flange portion 66.

[0121] A local container coordinate axis includes a longitudinal direction 100, lateral direction 102, and a depth direction 104. A rotational axis 106 extends in the depth direction 100 and defines a radial direction 108, which is in a plane defined by the longitudinal direction 100 and the lateral direction 102.

[0122] The container 6 has a circular cross-section when viewed in the plane defined by the longitudinal direction 100 and the lateral direction 102, it is therefore fully rotationally symmetric about the axis 106.

[0123] The closing member 60 is arranged in the plane defined by the longitudinal direction 100 and the lateral direction 102. The closing member 60 closes the storage portion 64 and comprises a membrane. The closing member 60 has an interior surface 68 that faces towards the storage portion 64, and an exterior surface 70 that faces away from the storage portion 64.

[0124] The flange portion 66 is arranged to interconnect the storage portion 64 and closing member 60 to hermetically seal precursor material. The flange portion 66 is arranged as an annular ring, which extends in the radial direction 108 from an interior edge 72 to an exterior edge 74. The flange portion 60 presents an upper surface 76, which is arranged in the plane defined by the longitudinal direction 100, and the lateral direction 102. The upper surface 76 is connected by an adhesive to a periphery of the interior surface 68 of the closing member 60. A lower surface 78 of the flange portion 66 faces towards the storage portion 58.

[0125] The storage portion 64 includes a cavity 80 for storage of the precursor material (not illustrated).

[0126] The cavity 80 includes a sidewall 82 and a base 84. The sidewall 82 extends principally in the 19403-EP-EPA depth direction 104 from a distal edge 86 to a proximal edge 88, wherein proximal and distal are defined relative the base 84. The sidewall 82 tapers with a decreasing radial dimension from the distal edge 88 to the proximal edge 86. The base 84 extends principally in the radial direction 108. but also has a lesser component in the depth direction 104.

[0127] The base 84 extends from the axis 106 to a peripheral edge 90 that adjoins the proximal edge 86 of the sidewall 82. The distal edge 88 of the sidewall 82 adjoins the interior edge 72 of the flange portion 66. The storage portion 64 and flange portion 66 are integrally formed.

[0128] Referring to figure 4C, the base 84 of the storage portion 64 is perforated by the perforator 49 to form inlets for injection of conditioned fluid into the cavity 80.

[0129] The body portion 62 (including the flange portion 66) is formed of moulded pulp material as defined herein. The moulded pulp material is made from cellulose fibers of wood origins. In the present case, the fibers are from soft wood.

[0130] The container 6 comprises a liner member (not illustrated) that lines the interior of the storage portion 64. The liner member provides a food safe barrier (e.g. for Oxygen and / or moisture) to the precursor material stored in the storage portion 64. It may also prevent exposure of the interior of the storage portion to water during a preparation process. The liner member may comprise a multilayer biodegradable polymer. An example of which is disclosed in WO 2021 / 145764. In variant embodiments, the liner member may be omitted.

[0131] Additionally or alternatively to the liner member, a barrier coating may also be used.

[0132] [Container dimensioning for processing unit]

[0133] Referring to figures 8 and 9, an ejection sequence and the retaining arrangement 43 is shown in more detail.

[0134] Referring to figure 8, the hooking members 44 in more detail, each hooking member 44, comprise a cavity 120 and a tip 122. The tip 122 extends in the global lateral direction 102 by a width w from a base of the cavity 120 to define a first side of the cavity 120 that, in the restrained position, extends around rim 91 of the flange portion at its upper surface 76. A second side of the cavity 120, in the restrained position, extends around the rim 91 of the flange portion at its lower surface 78. The cavity 120 has a base 124 with a longitudinal length x (e.g. to correspond to the depth of the rim 91). Two hooking members 44 are arranged at 90 degrees and 270 degrees position about the axis 106, where the counter depth direction 104 is at 0 degrees. 19403-EP-EPA

[0135] In variant embodiments, which are not illustrated: other numbers of hooking members may be implemented; the hooking members may have different angular positions, and the hooking members may have different shapes.

[0136] As shown in figures 7 and 8, a diameter D of the rim 91 of the flange portion 66 and the moulded pulp-based material of the body portion 62 are both selected to provide the following dimensional ranges in two different states:

[0137] Dry state) In a dry state (figure 4A and 4B prior to supply of fluid from the outlet 30 of the fluid condition system 22) the diameter D is within a first threshold range. The first threshold range comprises:

[0138] A) being greater than or equal to a first predetermined value V1 to enable engagement with the stops 48 of the supply channel 40 and / or to enable engagement with the tip 122 of the hooking member 44 (e.g. for snap fitting of the hooking member to the engaged position).

[0139] B) being less than or equal to a second predetermined value V2, to enable the rim 91 to fit into a cavity 120 of the hooking members 44 (e.g. for retaining in the processing position).

[0140] Wet state) (figure 4B, 4C and 4D subsequent to supply of fluid from the outlet 30 of the fluid condition system 22, and figures 4E - 4H) within a second threshold range. The second threshold range comprises:

[0141] A) being greater than or equal to a third predetermined value V3 to enable engagement with the tip 122 of the hooking member 44, e.g. to drag the spent capsule 6 from the extraction plate of the closing member 38) and / or to enable engagement with the ejectors 47 in a manner that facilitates the disengaging of the hooking members 44 from the rim 91.

[0142] B) being less than or equal to a fourth predetermined value V4 to enable engagement with the ejectors 47 to eject the rim 91 of the container 6 from the cavity 120 of the hooking members 44, including without sticking on the base of the cavity 120 and with sufficient kinetic energy for ejection.

[0143] The dry state is determined at ambient conditions, which may refer to the state of the body portion 62 of the container 6 prior to it coming into contact with the fluid from the outlet 30 of the fluid condition system 22. 19403-EP-EPA

[0144] The wet state is defined as during or immediately after exposure of the container 6 to fluid from the outlet 30 of the fluid condition system 22.

[0145] The first predetermined value V1 is less than the third predetermined value V3, and / or the second predetermined value V2 is less than the fourth predetermined value V4. The first predetermined value V1 is 36.6 mm ± 0.1% or 0.3% or 0.5%, for example V1 is greater than 36.6 mm. The second predetermined value V2 is 37.6 mm ± 0.1% or 0.3% or 0.5%, for example V2 is 37.6 mm ± 0.1 mm. The third predetermined value V3 is 36.7 mm ± 0.1% or 0.3% or 0.5%, for example V3 is 36.7 ± 0.1 mm. The fourth predetermined value V4 is 37.6 mm ± 0.1% or 0.3% or 0.5%, for example V4 is 37.6 ± 0.1 mm.

[0146] Referring to figure 4B and 4C, the container processing unit 20 is arranged in the processing position with the container holding portion 36 to expose both the interior and the exterior of the body portion 62 to the liquid from the outlet 30 of the fluid condition system 22. This is achieved by having a gap G between the container 6 exterior and the container holding portion 36, which is in fluid communication with the outlet 30 such that it can be occupied by the injected liquid. Said liquid implements a hydraulic seal by providing pressure against the lower surface 78 of the flange portion 66 to press it into the closing member 36.

[0147] Consequently, the flange portion 66 swells because the pulp-based material of is porous and water permeates from the gap between the container 6 and the container holding portion 34 and inside the capsule body to the flange.

[0148] The third predetermined value V3 and / or fourth predetermined value V4 is selected to reduce a likelihood of a condition of a failed ejection, which may be characterised by:

[0149] A) Referring to figure 9, the container 6 rests against the ejection channel 42 and the ejector 47. Specifically, it can be seen that the container 6 has rotated about the lateral axis 102 such that a lower part with respect of the depth direction 104 of the flange portion 66 of the container 6 rests against a front wall 110 of the ejection channel 42 and a mid-section of the flange portion 66 rests against the ejectors 47. With such an arrangement the container 6 may rest / stick in this position rather than being automatically ejected though the ejection channel 42. This failed ejection mode may be characterised by the third predetermined value V3 being too small and / or the fourth predetermined value V4 being too large such that the container 6 is not projected from the hooking means 44 with enough energy to enable it to bounce to and through the ejection channel 42. 19403-EP-EPA

[0150] B) the container 6 not being ejected by the ejectors 47 from the hooking members 44. This failed ejection mode may be characterised by the third predetermined value V3 being too small such that the ejectors 47 pass the rim 91 without dragging it from the hooking members 44 and / or the fourth predetermined value V4 being too large such that the ejectors 47 cannot drag the rim 91 from the hooking members 44 due to the rim 91 being too tight in the cavity 120 of the hooking members 44.

[0151] [Method of formation]

[0152] A method of forming the container 6 comprises:

[0153] Step 1 : forming the body portion 62 (e.g. the flange portion 66 and storage portion 64 integrally) by moulding of a pulp-based material (e.g. by wet forming).

[0154] Step 2: cutting the diameter D of the rim 91 of the flange portion 66 to correspond to the predetermined values V1 - V4.

[0155] The cutting may be implemented in the dry state hence with D to be within the threshold defined by V1 and V2, with the specific value selected so that in the wet state D is within the threshold defined by V3 and V4.

[0156] In variant embodiment, the method may be alternatively implemented, including: cutting in the wet state, and / or cutting as a part of the moulding step, e.g. a moulding formation is connected to a suitable cutting arrangement.

[0157] 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. 19403-EP-EPA

[0158] 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.

[0159] 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.

[0160] 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. 19403-EP-EPA

[0161] 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.

[0162] 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.

[0163] 19403-EP-EPA

[0164] LIST OF REFERENCES

[0165] 2 System

[0166] 4 Machine

[0167] 14 Processing unit

[0168] 20 Container processing unit

[0169] 34 Brewing unit

[0170] 36 Holding portion

[0171] 43 Retaining arrangement

[0172] 44 Hooking members

[0173] 49 Perforator

[0174] 38 Closing portion

[0175] 45 Ejection arrangement

[0176] 46 Sleeve

[0177] 47 Ejectors

[0178] 40 Supply channel

[0179] 48 Stops

[0180] 42 Ejection channel

[0181] 22 Fluid conditioning system

[0182] 24 Reservoir

[0183] 26 Pump

[0184] 28 Heat exchanger

[0185] 30 Outlet

[0186] 16 Electrical circuitry

[0187] 48 Control electrical circuitry

[0188] 50 Input unit

[0189] 52 Processor

[0190] 54 Feedback system

[0191] 6 Container

[0192] 60 Closing member

[0193] 68 Interior surface

[0194] 70 Exterior surface

[0195] 62 Body portion

[0196] 64 Storage portion

[0197] 80 Cavity

[0198] 82 Sidewall

[0199] 86 Proximal edge

[0200] 88 Distal edge

[0201] 84 Base

[0202] 90 Peripheral edge

[0203] 66 Flange portion

[0204] 72 Interior edge

[0205] 74 Exterior edge

[0206] 91 Rim

[0207] 92 First point of curvature

[0208] 94 Second point of curvature

[0209] 76 Upper surface

[0210] 78 Lower surface

Claims

19403-EP-EPACLAIMS1 . A system comprising a container and a machine for preparing a beverage and / or foodstuff thereof, the container for containing a precursor material for use with the machine, the container comprising: a body portion having a storage portion for storage of the precursor material and a flange portion having a rim, at least the flange portion formed of a moulded pulp-based material, and having a dry state in which no liquid is absorbed by the moulded pulp-based material, and a wet state in which liquid is absorbed by the moulded pulp-based material, the machine including: a container processing unit for processing precursor material of the container, the container processing unit comprising: a brewing unit having a holding portion arranged to hold the storage portion of the container, and a closing portion arranged to close the holding portion around a held container, the holding portion and closing portion relatively movable to transfer a container between receiving position a processing position; a retaining arrangement having hooking members arranged to retain the rim of the flange portion to transfer the container from the processing position; an ejection arrangement with ejectors for ejection of the flange portion from the hooking members, and a supply channel for supply of a container to the brewing unit, the supply channel comprising stops to locate a container in a holding position, wherein a diameter D of the rim of the flange portion is selected to be: in the dry state within a first threshold range, which comprises being greater than a first predetermined value V1 , to enable engagement with the stops of the supply channel, and being less than or equal to a second predetermined value, to enable the rim to fit into a cavity of the hooking members; in the wet state within a second threshold range, which comprises being greater than or equal to a third predetermined value V3 and being less than or equal to a fourth predetermined value V4 to enable engagement with the ejectors and ejection the rim of the container from the cavity of the hooking members,19403-EP-EPA wherein the fourth predetermined value V4 is 37.6 mm ± 0.1 mm.

2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the fourth predetermined value V4 is selected to enable projection of the container from the hooking members with an energy above a predetermined amount for ejection of the container to an ejection channel of the container processing unit.

3. The system of either of claims 1 or 2, wherein the fourth predetermined value V4 is selected to reduce a likelihood of a failed ejection condition of:- a container resting against the ejection channel and the ejectors; and / or- the container not being successfully ejected by the ejectors from the hooking members.

4. The system of any preceding claim, wherein: the first predetermined value V1 is less than the third predetermined value V3; and / or the second predetermined value V2 is less than the fourth predetermined value V4.

5. The system of any preceding claim, wherein:- the first predetermined value V1 is at least 36.6 mm; and / or the second predetermined value V2 is 37.6 mm ± 0.1 mm; and / or the third predetermined value V3 is 36.7 mm ± 0.1 mm.

6. The system of any preceding claim, wherein the moulded pulp-material comprises cellulose fibres, preferably soft wood fibres, and / or a barrier element providing a barrier function to the body portion, preferably a liner member lining an interior the storage portion.

7. The system of any preceding claim, wherein: the dry state is determined at ambient conditions; and / or19403-EP-EPA the wet state is defined as during or subsequent to being exposed to water from a preparation process.

8. The system of claim 7, wherein with the container in the processing position, the container processing unit is arranged to expose to liquid an exterior of the storage portion and the flange portion to hydraulically seal the container in the processing position.

9. The system of any preceding claim, wherein the body portion of the container is moulded, and the rim of the flange portion is cut to achieve the first to fourth predetermined values.

10. A container for use with a machine for preparing a beverage and / or foodstuff, the container for containing precursor material and comprising: a body portion having a storage portion for storage of the precursor material and a flange portion having a rim, at least the flange portion formed of a moulded pulp-based material, and having a dry state in which no liquid is absorbed by the moulded pulp-based material, and a wet state in which liquid is absorbed by the moulded pulp-based material, the machine including: a container processing unit for processing precursor material of the container, the container processing unit comprising: a brewing unit having a holding portion arranged to hold the storage portion of the container, and a closing portion arranged to close the holding portion around a held container, the holding portion and closing portion relatively movable to transfer a container between receiving position a processing position; a retaining arrangement having hooking members arranged to retain the rim of the flange portion to transfer the container from the processing position; an ejection arrangement with ejectors for ejection of the flange portion from the hooking members, and a supply channel for supply of a container to the brewing unit, the supply channel comprising stops to locate a container in a holding position, wherein a diameter D of the rim of the flange portion is selected to be:19403-EP-EPA in the dry state within a first threshold range, which comprises being greater than or equal to a first predetermined value V1 to enable engagement with the stops of the supply channel, and comprises being less than or equal to a second predetermined value V2, to enable the rim to fit into a cavity of the hooking members; in the wet state within a second threshold range, which comprises being greater than or equal to a third predetermined value V3 and less than or equal to a fourth predetermined value V4 to enable engagement with the ejectors and ejection the rim of the container from the cavity of the hooking members, wherein the fourth predetermined value V4 is 37.6 mm ± 0.1 mm.1 1 . Use of the container of claim 10 for a beverage and / or foodstuff, the machine including: a container processing unit for processing precursor material of the container, the container processing unit comprising: a brewing unit having a holding portion arranged to hold the storage portion of the container, and a closing portion arranged to close the holding portion around a held container, the holding portion and closing portion relatively movable to transfer a container between receiving position a processing position; a retaining arrangement having hooking members arranged to retain the rim of the flange portion to transfer the container from the processing position; an ejection arrangement with ejectors for ejection of the flange portion from the hooking members, and a supply channel for supply of a container to the brewing unit, the supply channel comprising stops to locate a container in a holding position.

12. A method of forming a container for use with a machine for preparing a beverage and / or foodstuff, the method comprising: forming the flange portion of the container of moulded pulp-based material to have a diameter D of a rim selected to be: in the dry state within a first threshold range, which comprises being greater than or equal to a first predetermined value V1 to enable engagement with a stops of a supply channel of the machine, and comprising being less than or equal to a second19403-EP-EPA predetermined value V2, to enable a rim of the flange portion to fit into a cavity of hooking members of the machine;- in the wet state within a second threshold range, which comprises being greater than or equal to a third predetermined value V3 and less than or equal to a fourth predetermined value V4 to enable engagement with ejectors of the machine and ejection the rim of the container from the cavity of the hooking members, wherein the fourth predetermined value V4 is 37.6 mm ± 0.1 mm.

13. The method of claim 12 comprising forming the container by moulding.

14. The method of claim 13 comprising subsequently cutting the rim portion when in the dry state.

15. A method of preparing a beverage and / or foodstuff with a container, the method comprising:- supplying a container to a brewing unit of a container processing unit from a supply channel;- arranging the container, in a dry state, in a holding position in the brewing unit;- transferring the container, in the dry state, to a processing position and engaging hooking members of a retaining arrangement with a rim of a flange portion of the container;- supplying liquid to the container in the processing position to process the container;- transferring the container, in the wet state, from the processing position by engagement of the hooking members the rim of a flange portion of the container;- ejecting the container, in the wet state, from the hooking members by engaging an ejector of an ejection arrangement with the rim; wherein a diameter D of the rim of the flange portion is formed of moulded pulp-based material and is selected to be:- in the dry state within a first threshold range, which comprises being greater than or equal to a first predetermined value V1 to enable engagement with the stops of the supply channel, and comprises being less than or equal to a second predetermined value V2, to enable the rim to fit into a cavity of the hooking members;3119403-EP-EPA- in the wet state within a second threshold range, which comprises being greater than or equal to a third predetermined value V3 and less than or equal to a fourth predetermined value V4 to enable engagement with the ejectors and ejection the rim of the container from the cavity of the hooking members, wherein the fourth predetermined value V4 is 37.6 mm ± 0.1 mm.

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