Compostable capsules for preparing beverages with improved beverage outflow

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to capsules (1) for preparing beverages comprising compostable materials and configured so as to provide improved reliability and efficiency of the outflow of the beverage from the capsules (1), as well as improved structural and functional efficiency when impinged on by a fluid flow under pressure.

Description

DESCRIPTION Compostable capsules for preparing beverages with improved beverage output. TECHNICAL DOMAIN

[0001] This description refers to capsules for preparing beverages, especially espresso coffee, made from compostable materials. BACKGROUND

[0002] The state of the art includes solutions relating to capsules for preparing beverages, specifically espresso coffee, made from compostable materials. In particular, the state of the art includes capsule solutions comprising two different compostable materials directly bonded together on their surface, each with a specific and distinct function.

[0003] The state of the art includes capsules with a first material of paper pulp that provides a structural function including rigid or semi-rigid condition with overall shape maintenance of the capsule, and a second material in a biofilm that provides an oxygen barrier.

[0004] Document EP 3030503 BI discloses a fully compostable beverage preparation capsule of the type of the present disclosure, comprising a first material which is provided in at least 85% by weight of amorphous polylactic acid reinforced with fibers, in particular silica fibers, and arranged so as to surround a second material, provided as an oxygen-impermeable barrier layer, which in this case comprises at least 70% by weight of an oxygen barrier material, including aliphatic polyolefin, in particular glycerol.

[0005] Document EP 4247531 BI discloses a multi-layered, cellulose-based food packaging comprising a plastic layer, a barrier paper layer, and a molded cellulose layer, with the packaging having an oxygen transmission rate (OTR) of less than 30 cc / m². 2 / d (23°C, 50%RH) using the DIN 53338-5 method and a vapor transmission rate (WVTR) of less than 20 g / m² 2 / d (38°C, 90%RH) using the ISO 2528 method.

[0006] Document EP 2465793 BI discloses capsules for infusion products with container and cap parts of the type shown in this disclosure, including a retention region configured for form-fitting between a plurality of projecting portions of the cap part and the rim of the container part. The disclosed configuration exhibits relatively complex shapes that can be achieved by injection molding of synthetic material, but are difficult to achieve in the case of compostable materials. Furthermore, the cap part has a single upstream projecting portion provided as a narrow element in the central region and extending asymmetrically relative to the central axis of the cap.

[0007] Compostable materials, including biopolymers and paper pulp derivatives, typically exhibit lower rupture strength and structural rigidity than synthetic polymers, so the use of these types of materials raises problems in terms of the capsule's resistance to hydraulic pressure.

[0008] Document EP 2911577 BI was also registered by the applicant for this disclosure, and discloses capsules made of a material including biopolymers, with lower resistance to deformation than synthetic polymer materials, and configured so that the side and base walls of the container part exhibit greater structural strength, this result being provided by means of careful variation in the wall thickness of portions of the container part wall.

[0009] WO 2023 / 061891 Al and WO 2024 / 068417 Al disclose capsules made from molded cellulose with improved oxygen and moisture barrier properties, comprising a container part provided from molded cellulose pulp and a sealing membrane that closes the container part opening. The container part has a barrier lining associated with the inner surface of the container part and fixed to a rim portion that delimits the container part opening. The barrier lining comprises a plurality of layers and may comprise bioPBS. The sealing membrane is provided from extruded coated paper, spun fiber coated paper, or a polymer film comprising a compatible polymer material.

[0010] In this context, the use of compostable materials as construction materials for coffee capsules, such as pressed paper pulp or cellulose, can lead to problems of rupture and structural stability when exposed to extraction by pressurized flow. The hydraulic pressure of the flow in the case of espresso-type coffee extraction is typically between 0.5 and 1.8 MPa. The Applicant has conducted several tests which have established that the impact of pressurized flow on the cap portion and the increase in hydraulic pressure inside the capsule can lead to the rupture of the respective inlet and outlet portions of the capsule. This results in the need to provide a mechanically resistant retention of the cap portion to the container portion, as well as an efficient sealing connection.

[0011] These facts are described in order to illustrate the technical problem solved by the achievements of this document. GENERAL DESCRIPTION

[0012] The objective of this disclosure is to present capsules for preparing beverages, particularly espresso coffee, comprising only compostable materials and with improved structural and functional behavior, including operation by pressurized flow without uncontrolled rupture of construction materials. This objective applies, for example, to coffee capsules for extraction in a respective extraction device by means of an upstream pressurized flow with a pressure of at least 0.4 MPa, preferably at least 0.8 MPa, and up to 1.8 MPa.

[0013] An associated objective of this disclosure is to provide capsules made of compostable materials and featuring reliable and efficient drainage outlets through the base wall of the container section, without the risk of uncontrolled rupture of the first compostable material in the base wall.

[0014] The problem described above is solved by the solution provided by the capsules of this disclosure, in particular by the capsules of claim 1, with preferred embodiments being indicated in the dependent claims.

[0015] The solution presented in this description describes a capsule comprising a collection chamber for confining a portion of edible precursor substance for a beverage, the capsule being operable by a beverage preparation device from a pressurized fluid, wherein the capsule comprises: a lid portion and a container portion arranged in an axial direction corresponding to the prevailing direction of pressurized fluid flow; wherein the container portion comprises: a rim portion, a side wall, and a base wall for fluid outflow, the base wall comprising an outer surface extending in a transverse plane along at least a major part of the length of the base wall, and comprising outlet passages for outflow from the capsule;the capsule further comprising a first compostable material consisting at least in part of a fibrous plant material for structural rigidity of the lid and / or container part; and a second compostable material with at least one layer arranged on an inner side of the capsule over the surface of the first compostable material to provide an oxygen barrier; and wherein the container part comprises one or more outlet passages formed in the first compostable material on the base wall allowing retention of a compostable material different from the first compostable material over approximately the entire surface of the base wall including over the outlet passages.

[0016] In particular, the objective is achieved by means of capsules comprising a container portion that has one or more outlet passages provided in the first compostable material in the base wall, and covered upstream and / or downstream by a compostable material that provides an oxygen barrier.

[0017] Furthermore, in one embodiment, the base wall is configured so that one or more outlet passages together form a total passage area between 5% and 50%, preferably between 7% and 35% of the base wall portion area. In another embodiment, the total passage area is between 10% and 30% and is distributed across a central region, preferably corresponding to a fraction of up to 20% or 30% of the base wall diameter and featuring a single outlet passage, and an intercalated region between the central region and an outer region of the base wall, preferably corresponding to a fraction between 30% and 70% of the base wall diameter and featuring a plurality of up to six outlet passages, thus providing a controlled hydraulic pressure increase, particularly in an outlet chamber upstream of the base wall.

[0018] In one embodiment, the layer of the second compostable material, arranged on one inner side of the capsule, is provided by a film or obtained by spraying, in particular by aerosol.

[0019] In another embodiment, the base wall of the container may comprise one or more outlet passages with a predetermined cutting geometry in order to minimize deformation of the container's side walls during use. This configuration contributes to more efficient beverage extraction and facilitates capsule removal after use.

[0020] In one embodiment, the predetermined cutting geometry is selected from a list consisting of: cross-shaped opening, star-shaped opening, triangular opening, hexagon-shaped opening, "Y"-shaped opening, spiral opening, multiple micro-holes, petal-shaped opening, fan-shaped opening from a central zone, honeycomb-shaped opening, and combinations thereof.

[0021] In one embodiment, the predetermined cutting geometry is centered on the base wall of the container.

[0022] In one embodiment, the predetermined cutting geometry is not centered on the base wall of the container.

[0023] In one embodiment, the predetermined cutting geometry defines triangular flaps arranged to allow fluid passage, in particular a cross-shaped opening, a "Y"-shaped opening, or a star-shaped opening, or a plurality of sectorial openings, each sectorial opening comprising two cuts, forming three or more arms radiating from a center.

[0024] In one embodiment, the predetermined cutting geometry comprises a cross-shaped opening 0.5 to 2.5 mm wide, preferably 0.8 to 2 mm.

[0025] The characteristic dimensions and flow passage areas described in this disclosure reduce the risk of excessive hydraulic pressure buildup in the pressure chamber and consequent risk of uncontrolled rupture of the first compostable material from the base wall, but ensure a sufficient pressure buildup to generate coffee crema, and a base wall surface with sufficient remaining area for a reliable compostable material connection that provides an oxygen barrier to the first compostable material.

[0026] In one embodiment, the outlet passages have characteristic dimensions larger than the respective thickness of the base wall, preferably between 30% and 300%, more preferably between 50% and 200%, and provide a retention area for a compostable material different from the first compostable material over at least approximately the entire surface of the base wall, including over the outlet passages.

[0027] In one embodiment, the container portion features a base wall associated with a narrowing projection of the downstream side wall, thereby providing retention support for a partition between the edible substance and a beverage outlet chamber, preferably made of a filter paper type material, more preferably a compostable type filter paper, and further providing greater structural strength in the adjacent base wall region, preferably without variation in wall thicknesses between the side wall and the base wall.

[0028] In one embodiment, the base wall and compostable material providing an oxygen barrier delimit downstream an outlet chamber that is delimited upstream by a filter paper-type material, more preferably a compostable type filter paper, which provides passage of pressurized flow but prevents the passage of edible substance from the downstream collection chamber to the outlet chamber.

[0029] The capsules according to this disclosure comprise lid and container parts including a first compostable material comprising a fibrous vegetable substance, including cellulose or other substances derived from cellulose or other vegetable fibers, and which allows mechanical retention between lid and container parts, maintaining overall dimensions when impinged by a pressurized flow, in particular the wall thicknesses of the lid and container parts. Preferably, the first compostable material is pressed paper pulp, for example paper pulp derived from deciduous woods, including conifers and myrtaceae.

[0030] Furthermore, capsules according to the present disclosure comprise lid and container parts including a second compostable material configured in such a way as to provide an oxygen barrier and applied as a film over at least most, preferably over the entire extent of the generally inward-oriented surface of the lid and container parts. That is, along all downstream-oriented surfaces and surfaces interspersed between them of the lid part, and along all inward-oriented and upstream-oriented surfaces of the container part.

[0031] In one embodiment, the second compostable material is further configured in such a way that it also allows the joining of adjacent film materials by heating them.

[0032] This objective is further achieved according to an embodiment of the present disclosure by means of capsules that have mechanically meshed retention regions between the lid and container parts, wherein the lid and container parts have at least one of the following: average wall thickness of the top wall of the lid part between 0.5 mm and 3.0 mm, preferably between 0.8 mm and 2.5 mm, more preferably between 1.0 mm and 2.3 mm, and average wall thickness of the side wall of the container part between 0.5 mm and 3.0 mm, preferably between 0.8 mm and 2.5 mm.

[0033] In one embodiment, the wall thickness of at least the top portion, preferably of the entire lid part, is greater than the wall thickness of at least the side wall, preferably also of the base wall of the container part.

[0034] Within the scope of this description, and in this case as in the case of other characteristics associated with wall thicknesses, the term wall thickness may include in each case at least one of the respective nominal, maximum and average thicknesses associated with the respective construction element or portion of a capsule construction element.

[0035] An associated objective of this disclosure is to disclose capsules comprising only compostable materials and featuring reliable and efficient means of flow entry through the lid wall, without risk of uncontrolled rupture of the first compostable material from the lid top wall and the lid retention region in the downstream container portion.

[0036] This objective is achieved through capsules comprising a lid portion that features one or more inlet passage regions provided in the first material with two characteristic dimensions on the outer surface of the top wall portion and sealed on the downstream side by the second compostable material.

[0037] In one embodiment, the lid portion comprises one or more inlet passages which, in the plane of the top surface of the first compostable material, have a larger first characteristic dimension, i.e., length, which is at least three times, preferably four times, larger than a second characteristic dimension, i.e., width, and are lined with a second compostable material on the downstream side thereof, the second characteristic dimension of the inlet passage regions preferably being smaller than the wall thickness of the top portion of the lid portion.

[0038] In one embodiment, the cap portion comprises at least one upstream projection portion on the outer side of a central region of the cap portion and an inlet passage region disposed at least in the vicinity of the upstream projection portion, such that a downstream force directed on the upstream projection portion contributes to its deformation and to the rupture of at least a second compostable material.

[0039] In one embodiment, the cover portion comprises at least one upstream projection portion associated with a plurality of inlet passage regions extending along parallel, provisioned inlet alignments and in close proximity to outer perimeter alignments of the projection portion, with the projection portion preferably having a segment or quadrant-shaped form when viewed from above. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0040] For easier understanding, the figures are attached, which represent preferred embodiments and are not intended to limit the scope of this description.

[0041] Figure 1: Schematic representation of a side view of a first embodiment of a capsule (1) according to the present disclosure.

[0042] Figure 2: Schematic representation of a side view of a second embodiment of a capsule (1) according to the present disclosure.

[0043] Figure 3: Schematic representation of a side cutaway view of a first embodiment according to Figure 2 of a capsule (1) according to the present disclosure.

[0044] Figure 4: Schematic representation of a side cutaway view of a second embodiment according to Figure 2 of a capsule (1) according to the present disclosure.

[0045] Figure 5: Schematic representation of a top perspective view of a first embodiment of the lid part (11) of a capsule (1) according to Figure 2.

[0046] Figure 6: Schematic representation of a side cutaway view and respective detail of the central region of the cover part (11) of the embodiment according to Figure 4.

[0047] Figure 7: Schematic representation of a top perspective view of a second embodiment of the lid part (11) of a capsule (1) according to Figure 2.

[0048] Figure 8: Schematic representation of a side cutaway view and respective detail of the central region of the lid part (11) of the embodiment according to Figure 7.

[0049] Figure 9: Schematic representation of a schematic view of the central region of the lid part (11) of the embodiment according to Figure 7.

[0050] Figure 10: Schematic representation of a perspective view of one embodiment of the lid part (11) from the side oriented towards the interior of the capsule (1).

[0051] Figure 11: Schematic representation of a side sectional view of a form embodiment of part of a capsule container (12) (1).

[0052] Figure 12: Schematic representation of a top view of a form embodiment of part of a capsule container (12).

[0053] Figure 13: Schematic representation of a perspective view from the base wall side (123) of a form embodiment of part of a capsule container (12) (1).

[0054] Figure 14: Schematic representation of a perspective view from the base wall side (123) of a form embodiment of part of a capsule container (12), with a compostable material (IV) on the outside of the first compostable material (I) where outlet passages (120) are provided.

[0055] Figure 15: Schematic representation of a basic perspective view of another embodiment of the container part (12) of a capsule (1) according to the present disclosure.

[0056] Figure 16: Schematic representation of a side cutaway view, of the embodiment of Figure 15, of part of a capsule container (12) according to the present disclosure.

[0057] Figure 17: Schematic representation of a top view, of the embodiment of Figure 15, of part of a capsule container (12) according to the present disclosure.

[0058] Figure 18: Schematic representation of a perspective view of the capsule (I), in another embodiment according to the present disclosure, where the lid part (II) is a film to seal the container part (12).

[0059] Figure 19: Schematic representation of a perspective view of the capsule (1), of the embodiment of Figure 18 according to the present disclosure, showing part of the lid (11) being a film before being applied and sealing the container part (12).

[0060] Figure 20: Schematic representation of a top view, of one embodiment of the container part (12) of capsule (1) according to the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0061] The capsules (1) described in this disclosure are capsules configured to confine an individual portion of edible substance, for example roasted and ground coffee beans, with an oxygen barrier, and in such a way that they are operable by a pressurized flow, for example hot water at a pressure between 0.4 MPa and 1.8 MPa, in an extraction device of a beverage preparation apparatus.

[0062] A first embodiment of capsule (1), according to the present disclosure, is represented in Figure 1. The capsule (1) has a lid part (11) with a rim portion (1110) that rests on a rim portion (121) of container part (12), wherein the lid (11) and container (12) parts have wall portions oriented upstream and downstream respectively, configuring coplanar surfaces along at least the largest part of the characteristic transverse dimension of capsule (1), in this case diameter.

[0063] According to one aspect, the edge portion (1110) of the lid part (11) has a smaller axial extension than the axial extension of the edge portion (121) of the container part (12).

[0064] In terms of construction, the capsule (1) comprises a lid part (11) and a container part (12) configured so as to confine a collection volume (A) for edible substance, for example roasted and ground coffee beans.

[0065] The capsule (1) comprises a lid portion (11) and a container portion (12) which has a container opening surrounded by a rim portion (121), as well as a side wall (122) and a base wall (123).

[0066] The capsule (1) comprises a lid part (11) and a container part (12) having perimeters and outer walls that are symmetrical with respect to a central axial axis (XX) and along the axial direction (X) of the capsule (1), at least approximately equal to the prevailing direction of fluid flow inside the capsule (1).

[0067] The lid part (11) and the container part (12) are arranged successively along the axial direction of the capsule (1), that is, along the prevailing direction of pressurized flow.

[0068] The lid part (11) is advantageously configured to provide drainage inlet into the collection volume (A) and the container part (12) is advantageously configured to provide drainage outlet out of the collection volume (A).

[0069] The capsule (1) comprises a lid portion (11) and a container portion (12) configured so that they can be mutually retained by means of a retaining region extending along a perimeter extension associated with the opening flange of the container portion (12).

[0070] In the case of the embodiment shown in Figure 2, the lid part (11) has an upstream projection portion (113), and the container part (12) has a downstream projection portion (124) which comprises the base wall (123).

[0071] According to one aspect, the capsule (1) in this case has one or more entry passage regions (110) associated at least in the vicinity of the upstream projection portion (113), and one or more exit passages (120) associated with the base wall (123) of the downstream projection portion (124).

[0072] As represented in Figure 3, the capsule (1) comprises a lid portion (11) which has a lid rim portion (1110) that extends radially outward, preferably delimiting a projection portion (111) that extends upstream along the axial direction (X).

[0073] The capsule (1) comprises a container part (12) having a container rim portion (121) that projects outward relative to the side wall portion (122) along the perimeter of the opening of the container part (12).

[0074] The container rim portion (121) is configured so as to provide a retention region for the rim portions (1110) and lid projection (111), preferably by means of form fitting of the rim portions (1110) and lid projection (111) onto respective surfaces of the container rim portion (121).

[0075] Furthermore, in one embodiment, the lid (11) and container (12) parts are configured so as to provide contact surfaces comprising a joining extension (UE) for material joining along a perimeter extension of the container rim portion (121), for example by welding a certain compound.

[0076] In terms of constituent materials, the capsule (1) comprises a first compostable material (I), consisting at least in part of a fibrous plant material and configured in such a way as to provide structural rigidity at least to the container part (12), preferably also to the lid part (11).

[0077] The capsule (1) further comprises a second compostable material (II) provided as a film with at least one layer and configured so that it can be laminated onto a surface of the first material (I), in particular onto a surface on the inside and / or oriented towards the inside of the capsule (1), so that it provides an oxygen barrier to at least part of the collection volume (A) relative to the outside.

[0078] In one embodiment, the lid (11) and container (12) portions are constituted, at least in their respective structural walls that configure their respective forms, at least mostly in a compostable first material (1).

[0079] In one embodiment, the capsule (1) is configured in such a way that the lid part (11) and the container part (12) comprise a first material (I) that has a combination of fibers of different lengths, preferably without PLA, and comprise a layer of second material (II) that has a compostable material film, such as Biopbs®, or obtained from spraying, in particular by aerosol.

[0080] In one embodiment, the first compostable material (I) preferably comprises, at least mostly by weight, pressed paper pulp.

[0081] In one embodiment, the first compostable material (I) preferably comprises, at least predominantly by mass fraction, a substance derived from deciduous wood, such as cellulose, including at least one of cellulose pulp and cellulose fiber. - A specific tensile strength of at least 700 kPa / 100 g.m-2, preferably at least 1 MPa / 150 gm-2; - A density per unit area between 50 and 250 kg / m2, preferably between 70 and 200 kg / m2.

[0082] In one embodiment, the first compostable material (I) preferably comprises, at least predominantly by mass fraction, compacted or pressed paper pulp.

[0083] In one embodiment, the second compostable material (II) is a biofilm configured with at least one layer and configured so that it provides an oxygen barrier from the collection volume (A) to the outside.

[0084] In one embodiment, the second compostable material (II) is a thermally manipulable configured biofilm that provides material bonding through material fusion.

[0085] The second compostable material (II) can be a biofilm exhibiting at least one of: - Bio-based polybutylene succinate, produced from the polymerization of bio-based succinic acid and 1,4-butanediol; an ISO 527-2 tensile strength between 20 and 40 MPa.

[0086] In one embodiment, the second compostable material (II) is a biofilm devoid of PVOH.

[0087] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the capsule (1) comprises a certain dimensional relationship between the wall thicknesses of the lid part (11) and the container (12), mostly provided by the first compostable material (I), in particular compacted paper pulp, thus better adjusting the quantities of said first compostable material to the requirements of resistance to hydraulic pressure.

[0088] In one embodiment, the capsule (1) comprises a lid portion (11) having a top wall portion (112) having a wall thickness (ell2) greater than the wall thickness (el22) of the side wall portion (122) of the container portion (12).

[0089] In one embodiment, the top wall portion (112) comprises one or more entry passage regions (110) and has a wall thickness (ell2) between 0.5 mm and 3.0 mm, preferably between 0.8 mm and 2.5 mm, particularly preferably between 1.0 mm and 2.0 mm, preferably at least in the vicinity of one or more entry passage regions (110).

[0090] In one embodiment, the capsule (1) has a lid part (11) with an outer diameter between 37 mm and 40 mm, preferably between 37.5 mm and 39.5 mm.

[0091] In one embodiment, the capsule (1) has a container portion (12) with a rim portion (121) that has a diameter between 38 mm and 40 mm, preferably between 38.5 mm and 39.5 mm.

[0092] In one embodiment, the outer diameter of the lid part (11) is smaller than the outer diameter of the container part (12).

[0093] In one embodiment, the outside diameter of the lid part (11) is equal to the outside diameter of the container part (12).

[0094] In one embodiment, as represented in Figure 2 and following, the capsule (1) comprises a lid portion (11) having on the downstream side an annular lid projection portion (111), preferably a single one, projecting downstream and configured so that the outer region can be retained in the inner container opening rim region (121) of the container portion (12), wherein the lid projection portion (111) has a projection wall thickness (eRW) greater, preferably at least 50% greater, more preferably less than 100% greater, than the average wall thickness (eSW) of the top wall (110) of the lid portion (11).

[0095] In one embodiment, the opening rim (121) has an axial rim wall extension (X121) greater, preferably at least 50% greater, more preferably at least 100% greater, than the wall thickness (el22), including nominal or average, of the side wall (122) of the container part (12), at least in the region of the latter adjacent to the container rim portion (121).

[0096] The capsule (1) according to this disclosure is configured in such a way that the lid part (11) and the container part (12) are mutually retained mechanically by means of form fitting, through a retaining region having at least one of: an axial extension (XR) and a transverse extension (YR) including at least mainly a first compostable material (I), preferably compacted paper pulp.

[0097] In one embodiment, the joint retention region has at least one axial and transverse retention extension (XR, YR) that also includes a second compostable material (II).

[0098] The use of compostable materials, such as compacted paper pulp, raises questions about the structural strength of the capsule (1) when forced by pressurized flow of beverage extraction fluid. Capsules (1) with a given configuration and provided in synthetic material exhibit greater structural strength for the same wall thickness, whether of the lid part (11) or the container part (12).

[0099] In one embodiment, it is preferred when the capsule (1) is configured in such a way that the lid part (11) and the container part (12) provide a retention region arranged so that it extends outwards by axial projection (XX) relative to the top wall portion (112) comprising one or more upstream flow passage regions (110), and relative to the base wall portion (123) comprising one or more downstream flow passage regions (120).

[0100] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the capsule (1) comprises a certain dimensional relationship between the wall thicknesses of the lid part (11) and the container part (12), mostly provided by the first compostable material (I), in particular compacted paper pulp, thus better adjusting the quantities of said first compostable material (ll) to the requirements of resistance to hydraulic pressure.

[0101] In one embodiment, the capsule (1) comprises a lid portion (11) having a top wall portion (112) having a wall thickness (ell2) greater than the wall thickness (el22) of the side wall portion (122) of the container portion (12).

[0102] In one embodiment, the lid portion (11) has a top wall portion (112) with an extension of first compostable material (I) associated with the wall thickness (ell2) that is greater, preferably at least 20% greater than the extension of first compostable material (I) associated with the wall thickness (el22) of the side wall portion (122) of the container portion (12).

[0103] It is preferred when the top wall portion (112) comprises one or more entrance passage regions (110) and has a wall thickness (ell2) between 0.8 mm and 1.8 mm, preferably between 0.9 mm and 1.5 mm, preferably at least in the vicinity of one or more entrance passage regions (110).

[0104] Furthermore, in one embodiment, the container part (12) has a side wall portion (122) configured with a truncated cone shape inclined at an angle (alpha) relative to the axial direction (X) between 3 and 7°, preferably between 4 and 6°.

[0105] Figures 5 and 7 represent two embodiments of capsules (1) comprising lid parts (11) that differ in the arrangement of one or more inlet passage regions (110) associated with upstream projection portions (113) in the central region of the top wall portion (112).

[0106] The capsule (1) according to the present disclosure provides better flow entry conditions through the lid part (11) retained in the container part (12), considering the particular fact that the lid part (11) is formed from a first compostable material (I), preferably paper pulp or pulp, with a structural resistance typically lower than the structural resistance of a synthetic material, when subjected to a hydraulic pressure between 4 and 18 bar.

[0107] According to a first aspect, the capsule (1) comprises a lid part (11) having one or more inlet passage regions (110) provided in the first material (I) in the top wall portion (112) and closed on the downstream or interior side thereof by the second material (II).

[0108] In this way, a capsule (1) is advantageously provided with a reliable and efficient configuration in terms of material use and operation for the preparation of beverages by means of pressurized flow extraction.

[0109] In one embodiment, the cover part (11) comprises a top wall portion (112) having one or more inlet passage regions (110) configured as full or partial cuts, or as through openings through the entire axial length (X) of the first material (I) in respective regions of the top wall portion (112), but not through the second material (II).

[0110] In one embodiment, the cover portion (11) has one or more inlet passage regions (110) arranged in a central region of the top wall portion (112), and configured so that they extend throughout a respective greater first extent along a plane transverse to the axial direction (X), or prevailing flow direction.

[0111] In one embodiment, the cover portion (11) comprises a top wall portion (112) having one or more inlet passage regions (110) configured as a localized variation of axial extension of the first material (I), by means of one of: Reduction of the axial extent of the first material (I), preferably by means of punching or cutting the first material (I) along the axial direction (X) and along at least part or all of the axial extent of the compostable first material portion (I), so that one or more entry passage regions (110) form zones of weakened compostable first material (I) that are breakable when forced by pressurized flow; Absence of first material (I), such that one or more inlet passage regions (110) constitute through openings through the compostable first material portion (I) of the top wall portion (112), preferably by means of absence of first material (I) along an extension having at least approximately constant width, such that one or more inlet passage regions (110) constitute initial zones of rupture and / or widening of compostable first material (I) when forced by pressurized flow.

[0112] As can be seen in Figures 18 and 20, the cover part (11) comprises a top wall portion (112) which has one or more inlet passage regions (110) configured as a localized variation of axial extension of the first material (I) and without reduction of wall thickness (ell2) in regions adjacent to the inlet passage regions (110).

[0113] In one embodiment, the cover portion (11) comprises a top wall portion (112) having one or more inlet passage regions (110) configured as a localized variation of axial extension of the first material (I) and with increased wall thickness (ell2) in regions adjacent to the one or more inlet passage regions (110), including in regions of upstream projection portion (113).

[0114] In one embodiment, the cover portion (11) comprises a top wall portion (112) having one or more inlet passage regions (110) according to at least one of: Devoid of any material on the upstream side, Lined on the downstream side by a common and continuous extension of second compostable material (II), preferably without reduction of axial extension of the second material (II), at least in the region of one or more inlet passage regions (110).

[0115] According to a preferred embodiment, the entry passage regions (110) have a first characteristic dimension on the top surface of the top portion (112) that is larger than a second characteristic dimension, wherein the first characteristic dimension is preferably configured so that it has at least one of: A length of entrance passage region (110) extending in an angular or radial direction relative to the central axis (XX), A dimension at least ten times larger than a second characteristic dimension, preferably at least 20 times larger; An extension between 2 mm and 10 mm, preferably between 4 and 6 mm.

[0116] Alternatively or in addition to the above aspect, the entry passage regions (110) have a second characteristic dimension that is at least approximately constant along the first characteristic dimension, and the second characteristic dimension is preferably configured so that it has at least one of: An entrance passage region width (110) extending in a radial or angular direction relative to the central axis (XX), An extension equal to or less than the wall thickness (ell2) of the top wall portion (112) in the region adjacent to the entrance passage regions (110); An extension between 0.1 mm and 2 mm, preferably between 0.3 mm and 1.5 mm, more preferably between 0.5 mm and 1 mm.

[0117] In one embodiment, the cover part (11) comprises a top wall portion (112) having a plurality of inlet passage regions (110) having a first dimension in an angular or radial direction smaller than the wall thickness (ell2), preferably less than half, more preferably less than one third of the wall thickness (ell2), considering the wall thickness (ell2) at least in the region of the first material (I) at least in the vicinity or adjacent to the passage regions (110), such that the inlet passage regions (110) have a first characteristic dimension in the transverse direction (Y) smaller than the characteristic dimension of the first material (I) in the axial direction (X) at least in the region in the vicinity of the passage region (110).

[0118] In one embodiment, the capsule (1) is configured such that the lid portion (11) comprises a top wall portion (112) having a plurality of inlet passage regions (110) having a second dimension along an angular or radial direction greater than the wall thickness (ell2), preferably greater than twice, more preferably greater than four times the wall thickness (ell2), considering the wall thickness (ell2) at least in the region of the first material (I) at least in the vicinity or adjacent to the passage regions (110), such that the inlet passage regions (110) have a second characteristic dimension along the transverse direction (Y) smaller than the characteristic dimension of the first material (I) along the axial direction (X) at least in the region in the vicinity of the passage region (110).

[0119] In one embodiment, the cover part (11) comprises an upstream projection portion (113) on the outer side of a central region of the cover part (11) and an inlet passage region (110) disposed at least in the vicinity of the upstream projection portion (113), such that a downstream force directed on the upstream projection portion (113) contributes to a deformation thereof and to a rupture of at least second material (II).

[0120] In one embodiment, the cover portion (11) comprises a top wall portion (112) configured such that it has a wall thickness (ell2) that is at least approximately constant along at least some radial portions between the projection portion (111) and the central axis (X) of the cover portion (11).

[0121] Furthermore, it has been shown to be advantageous in the case of a first compostable material (I) of the compacted paper pulp type, when the lid part (11) comprises a top wall portion (112) configured so that it has at least one of: A wall thickness (e 112) at least approximately constant at least between the projection portion (111) and at least one of the inlet passage regions (110) and projection portion to upstream (113), A wall thickness (ell2) between 0.5 mm and 3.0 mm, preferably between 0.8 mm and 2.5 mm, in a particularly preferred way between 1.0 mm and 1.5 mm of first material (I).

[0122] As represented in Figures 17 to 20, in one embodiment, the capsules (1) according to the present disclosure comprise lid parts (11) having at least one projection portion (113) associated with, i.e., at least in the vicinity of or abutting, entry passage regions (110), and container parts (12) having a projection portion (124) configured as a narrowing of the side wall (122) and comprising the wall portion (123) having a plurality of exit passages (120).

[0123] In one embodiment, the lid part (11) may comprise an upstream projection portion (113) on the outer side of a central region of the lid part (11) and configured so that it is mechanically forced with a downstream directed force by a corresponding beverage preparation device part, and an inlet passage region (110) disposed at least in the vicinity of or adjacent to the upstream projection portion (113), preferably disposed closer to the upstream projection portion (113) than to a downstream projection portion (111) in the perimeter region of the lid part (11), such that a downstream mechanical force action on the upstream projection (113) contributes to the rupture of at least one of: the flow passage region (110), and second material (II) disposed downstream thereof.

[0124] Figure 9 represents a particularly preferred capsule configuration (1), in which the lid part (11) has a plurality of upstream projection portions (113) configured as segments of a circle and interspersed with inlet passage regions (110).

[0125] In one embodiment, the cover portion (11) comprises at least one upright projection portion (113), wherein each upright projection (113) is configured according to at least one of: Associated with one or two inlet passage regions (110) through the cover part (11);Having one or two perimeter extensions extending at least in close proximity and along a radial or angular direction at least approximately equal to the radial or angular direction of one or two inlet passage regions (110).

[0126] It is further advantageous when the cover part (11) comprises at least one, preferably a plurality of upstream projection portions (113) on the outer side of a central region of the cover part (11), Configured as a compacted region of first material (I) together with the remaining cover part (11); Featuring one, three or four cover projections for upright (113) each configured at least approximately as one third or one quarter of a circumference of a reference circumference centered on the central axis (XX), Featuring an axial extension (ell3) between 0.3 mm and 1.5 mm, preferably between 0.5 mm and 1.0 mm.

[0127] In one embodiment, the cover part (11) comprises inlet passage regions (110) arranged in radial alignments directed towards the central axis (X) and extending from both sides of at least one, preferably a plurality of upstream projections (113),

[0128] In one embodiment, the cover part (11) comprises inlet passage regions (110) arranged in a common reference circular alignment centered on the central axis (X) and extending around at least one, preferably a plurality of upstream projections (113).

[0129] Furthermore, in one embodiment, the cover portion (11) comprises a plurality of inlet passage regions (110) arranged in the central region of the cover wall portion (112), wherein the inlet passage regions (110) are preferably configured according to at least one of: They have an elongated shape, at least approximately straight or curved, and exhibit a symmetrical distribution with respect to a central axis of symmetry (XX). They have a curved linear shape, preferably a segment of a circle; arranged along a common circular reference alignment, preferably so that they extend along at least the greater part of that common circular alignment; They extend along a radial extent at least approximately equal along at least the greater part of their extent.

[0130] In one embodiment, the capsule (1) is configured such that the lid portion (11) comprises a top wall portion (112) having a wall thickness (ell2) at least approximately greater, preferably at least 20% greater, than the wall thickness (el22, el23) of at least one of the side wall portion (122) and the base wall portion (123) of the container portion (12).

[0131] Figure 10 shows a lid portion (11) formed from a first compostable material (I) and with the downstream face presenting a second compostable material (II) configured for an oxygen barrier, with the downstream face presenting a plurality of ribs (1120) arranged radially between the projection portion (111) and the central region of the top wall portion (122) which presents upstream projection portions (130) on the upstream side.

[0132] In one embodiment, the ribs (1120) have an axial extension that corresponds to at least 50% of the axial extension (Xlll) of the downstream projection portion (111).

[0133] Figures 11 to 14 represent part views of a container (12) of capsules (1) according to the present disclosure.

[0134] The capsule (1) according to the present disclosure provides better flow outlet conditions through the container part (11), considering the particular fact that the lid part (11) is formed from a first compostable material (I), preferably compacted paper pulp or paste, with a structural resistance typically lower than the structural resistance of a synthetic material, when subjected to a hydraulic pressure between 0.4 and 1.8 MPa.

[0135] In one embodiment, the capsule (1) comprises a container part (12) having a plurality of outlet passages (120) provided in the first compostable material (I) in the base wall (123) and providing retention of a compostable material other than the first compostable material (I) over at least approximately the entire surface of the base wall (123) including over the outlet passages (120).

[0136] In this way, a capsule (1) is advantageously provided with a reliable and efficient configuration in terms of material use and operation for the preparation of beverages by means of pressurized flow extraction.

[0137] In one embodiment, the container part (12) comprises a base wall (123) having a plurality of exit passages (120) configured according to at least one of: Configured as through openings in the base wall (123) having at least one characteristic dimension transverse to the axial direction (X) that is greater than the wall thickness (e 123) of the base wall (123), Configured covered by a compostable material that provides an oxygen and water vapor barrier, Configured covered by the second compostable material (II) placed directly upstream of the base wall (123), Configured covered by a compostable material disposed directly downstream of the base wall (123) and configured in such a way as to provide at least one oxygen barrier and information support, By means of direct connection with the surface of the base wall (123) in at least one of: the inner side and the outer side of the first compostable material (I) of the base wall (123).

[0138] Alternatively or additionally, the container part (12) comprises a base wall (123) having an external cross-sectional dimension in accordance with at least one of: Between 27 mm and 32 mm, preferably between 28 mm and 31 mm; Corresponding to at least 85%, preferably between 85 and 90% of the cross-sectional dimension of the nearest side wall portion (122).

[0139] In one embodiment, the container part (12) has a plurality of outlet passages (120) contained in the first compostable material (I) in the base wall (123) and which provides retention of a compostable material different from the first compostable material (I) over at least approximately the entire surface of the base wall (123) including over the outlet passages (120).

[0140] The container part (12) comprises a base wall (123) having a plurality of exit passages (120) configured according to at least one of: Thus, together they provide a total passage area of ​​between 5 and 50%, preferably between 7 and 35% of the area of ​​the base wall portion (123); So that at least part, preferably each exit passage (120) has an area between 3 and 6%, preferably between 3.5 and 5% of the total exit passage area (120).

[0141] This provides an advantageous increase in hydraulic pressure inside the outlet chamber (B) sufficient to generate crema in the coffee and to generate rupture of a compostable material configured in such a way as to provide an oxygen barrier, but without generating a premature or uncontrolled rupture of the first material (I) of the base wall (123).

[0142] Figures 12 to 14 represent a preferred embodiment of capsules (1) according to the present disclosure, in particular of the outlet passages (120) provided in the base wall (123).

[0143] In one embodiment, the container portion (12) comprises a base wall (123) having first and second exit passages (1201, 1202) configured according to at least one of: With at least one characteristic cross-sectional dimension between 2 mm and 10 mm, preferably between 3 mm and 8 mm, With an intercalary transverse dimension between outlet passages (1201, 1202) between 5 mm and 10 mm, preferably between 6 mm and 8 mm.

[0144] Alternatively or complementarily, the container part (12) comprises a base wall (123) having first and second exit passages (1201, 1202) configured according to at least one of: A first exit passage (1201) arranged centrally in the central region, preferably symmetrically with respect to the central axis (X), including circular shape, A first exit passage (1201) with a characteristic transverse dimension, for example diameter, between 2 mm and 7 mm, preferably between 3 mm and 6 mm, Second exit passages (1202) arranged symmetrically around the central region, at least approximately in the form of segments of a circular ring, extending along at least part of a circular reference alignment, Four second exit passages (1202) with a characteristic transverse dimension along the radial direction between 3 mm and 7 mm, preferably between 4 mm and 6 mm.

[0145] Figures 15 to 17 illustrate another embodiment of the present disclosure, in particular where the outlet passages (120) are configured in a centered "cross" outlet opening (1203), in order to minimize the deformation of the side walls of the container part (12) and thus facilitate removal of the capsule from a beverage extraction mechanism.

[0146] In one embodiment, the outer diameter of the lid part (11) is equal to the outer diameter of the container part (12), for best results.

[0147] In another embodiment, the base wall of the container may have one or more outlet passages with a cutout of a predetermined geometry in order to minimize deformation of the container's side walls during use. This predetermined geometry contributes to more efficient beverage extraction and facilitates capsule removal after use, for better results.

[0148] In one embodiment, the predetermined cutting geometry is selected from a list consisting of: cross-shaped opening, star-shaped opening, triangular opening, hexagon-shaped opening, "Y"-shaped opening, spiral opening, multiple micro-holes, petal-shaped opening, fan-shaped opening. TIde a central zone, alveolar pattern opening, and their combinations, for best results.

[0149] In one embodiment, the predetermined cutting geometry is centered on the base wall of the container for best results.

[0150] In one embodiment, the predetermined cutting geometry is not centered on the base wall of the container, for better results.

[0151] In one embodiment, the predetermined cutting geometry defines triangular flaps arranged to allow fluid passage, in particular a cross-shaped opening, a "Y"-shaped opening, or a star-shaped opening, or a plurality of sectorial openings, each sectorial opening comprising two cuts, forming three or more arms radiating from a center, for best results.

[0152] In one embodiment, the cutting geometry comprises a "cross" opening 0.5 to 2.5 mm wide, preferably 0.8 to 2 mm, for best results.

[0153] Tests performed showed that this configuration and relative dimension of outlet passages (120) allows a controlled increase in hydraulic pressure inside the outlet chamber (B), sufficient to generate rupture of a compostable oxygen barrier paper-type material but without the risk of uncontrolled rupture of first compostable material (I).

[0154] According to one aspect, and as shown in Figures 6, 8 and 11, the capsule (1) comprises an outlet chamber (B) downstream of the collection chamber (A) of edible substance and bounded downstream by a base wall (123) which has a plurality of outlet passages (120), wherein the outlet chamber (B) is preferentially confined by different compostable materials upstream and downstream.

[0155] In one embodiment, the container part (12) comprises a container projection portion (124) extending downstream of the side wall portion (122) and comprising the base wall (123) so as to configure an outlet chamber (B) downstream of the collection chamber (A).

[0156] The container projection portion (124) is preferably configured so that it extends in accordance with at least one of: Thus the outlet chamber (B) has a transverse dimension (YB) which corresponds to a reduction of the transverse dimension (Y12) of the upstream container part (12) so that it forms an inner rim portion (1240), Thus it has an axial extension (X124) with a dimension that is at least one of: greater than the wall thickness (el23) of the base wall (123), between 2 mm and 3.5 mm, preferably between 2.3 mm and 3 mm.

[0157] In one embodiment, as represented in Figure 11, the container part (12) comprises a container projection portion (124) extending inward from the side wall portion (122), thereby configuring an inner flange portion (1240) extending in at least approximately a transverse direction (Y).

[0158] The aforementioned inner flange portion (1240) is preferably configured so that it extends from the downstream region of the side wall (122) and along the perimeter according to at least one of: Thus it has a radial extension (Y1240) with a dimension that is at least one of: greater than the wall thickness dimension (el23) of the base wall (123), between 0.5 mm and 1.5 mm, preferably between 0.7 mm and 1.3 mm, Thus it provides retention support to the perimeter region of a third compostable material (III) configured with a filter-type structure so that it provides retention of edible substance particles upstream of the outlet chamber (B).

[0159] In one embodiment, the capsule (1) comprises an outlet chamber (B) bounded upstream by a third compostable material (III), and by a fourth compostable material (IV), preferably configured as an oxygen and water vapor barrier paper, provided on the outside of the base wall (123).

[0160] Figure 14 shows the application of the aforementioned fourth compostable material (IV), whereby the fourth compostable material (IV) preferably provides support for evidence recognizable by human and / or automatic means.

[0161] In one embodiment, the capsule (1) is configured such that the container part (12) comprises a base wall (123) having a wall thickness (el23) including at least one of the following: less than the wall thickness (ell2) of the top wall portion (112) of the lid part (11), at least approximately equal to or greater than the wall thickness (el22) of the side wall (122) of the container part (12).

[0162] Alternatively or complementarily, in one embodiment, the capsule (1) is configured such that the container part (12) comprises a base wall (123) having a wall thickness (el23), including at least one of average thickness and maximum thickness, between 0.5 mm and 1.8 mm, preferably between 0.7 mm and 1.3 mm.

[0163] In one embodiment, the capsule (1) comprises a lid portion (11) comprising a plurality of inlet passage regions (110) and comprises a container portion (12) comprising a plurality of outlet passages (120), wherein the inlet passage regions (110) are configured according to at least one of: Distributed across a total area of ​​the top wall of the lid (111) smaller than the total area occupied by the outlet passage regions (120) on the base wall (123), They exhibit a larger characteristic dimension along a transverse direction (Y) that is smaller than the smaller characteristic dimension of the outlet passages (120) downstream of the outlet chamber (B) so that it allows for hydraulic pressure compensation inside the capsule (1).

[0164] Figure 20 illustrates one embodiment of the container part (12) of the capsule (1) in which the predetermined cutting geometry defines triangular flaps arranged for opening for fluid passage, in particular a cross opening, a "Y" shaped opening or a star-shaped opening, or a plurality of sectoral openings, each sectoral opening comprising two cuts, forming three or more arms radiating from a center.

[0165] When ranges are provided, the limits are included. Furthermore, it should be understood that, unless otherwise indicated or evident from the context and / or the understanding of a person skilled in the art, the values ​​expressed as ranges may assume any specific value within the ranges indicated in different embodiments of the invention, down to one-tenth of the unit of the lower limit of the range, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It should also be understood that, unless otherwise indicated or evident from the context and / or the understanding of a person skilled in the art, the values ​​expressed as ranges may assume any sub-range within the given range, wherein the endpoints of the sub-range are expressed with the same degree of precision as one-tenth of the unit of the lower limit of the range.

[0166] The term "comprises" or "comprising" when used in this document is intended to indicate the presence of the features, elements, wholes, steps and components mentioned, but does not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, elements, wholes, steps and components, or groups thereof.

[0167] This disclosure is, of course, by no means limited to the embodiments described in this document, and a person with average knowledge of the field could foresee many possibilities for its modification and for the substitution of technical characteristics with equivalent ones, depending on the requirements of each situation, as defined in the attached claims.

[0168] The following claims define additional realizations of the present description.

Claims

CLAIMS 1. Capsule comprising a collection chamber (A) for confining a portion of edible precursor substance for a beverage, the capsule being operable by a device for preparing beverages from a pressurized fluid, wherein the capsule comprises: a lid part and a container part arranged in an axial direction (X) corresponding to the prevailing direction of pressurized fluid flow; where the container portion includes: a portion of the border, a side wall, and a base wall for fluid outflow, wherein the base wall comprises an outer surface extending in a transverse plane along at least a major portion of the length of the base wall, and comprises outlet passages for fluid outflow from the capsule; the capsule further comprising a first compostable material (I) consisting at least in part of a fibrous plant material for structural rigidity of the lid and / or container part; and a second compostable material (II) with at least one layer arranged on an inner side of the capsule over the surface of the first compostable material (I) to provide an oxygen barrier; and wherein The container portion comprises one or more outlet passages formed in the first compostable material (I) in the base wall allowing retention of a compostable material other than the first compostable material (I) over approximately the entire surface of the base wall including over the outlet passages.

2. Capsule according to claim 1, wherein the cap portion comprises: a portion of the rim, a projection portion, and a top wall, wherein the top wall portion comprises an exterior surface extending in a transverse plane along at least the greater part of the length of the top wall portion, and comprises inlet passage regions that allow pressurized flow to enter the capsule.

3. Capsule according to claim 1, wherein the cap part is a film for sealing the container part.

4. Capsule according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the layer of the second compostable material (II), arranged on an inner side of the capsule, is provided by a film or obtained by spraying, in particular by aerosol.

5. Capsule according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the base wall of the container portion comprises a plurality of exit passages configured according to at least one of: with through openings in the base wall showing at least one characteristic dimension transverse to the axial (X) direction that is greater than a base wall thickness, covered by a compostable material that provides an oxygen barrier.

6. Capsule according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the base wall of the container portion comprises a plurality of exit passages configured according to at least one of: covered by the second compostable material (II) placed directly upstream of the base wall, covered by a compostable material placed directly downstream of the base wall and configured in such a way as to provide an oxygen barrier and / or information support, covered by a compostable material by means of direct bonding of said compostable material to the surface of the base wall in at least one of: the inside and outside of the first compostable material (I) of the base wall.

7. Capsule according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the base wall of the container portion comprises an external transverse dimension according to at least one of: between 27 mm and 32 mm, preferably between 28 mm and 31 mm; corresponding to at least 85%, preferably between 85 and 90% of the transverse dimension of the nearest side wall portion.

8. Capsule according to any of the preceding claims, wherein one or more outlet passages are configured according to at least one of: such that they jointly provide a total passage area between 5 and 50%, preferably between 7 and 35% of the area of ​​the base wall portion; such that at least part, preferably each outlet passage, has an area between 3 and 6%, preferably between 3.5 and 5% of the total outlet passage area, thus providing an initial retention of the pressurized fluid for an increase in hydraulic pressure inside the outlet chamber (B) sufficient to generate crema in the coffee during the extraction of the beverage from the edible precursor substance of the beverage.

9. Capsule according to any of the preceding claims, comprising first and second outlet passages configured according to at least one of: with at least one characteristic cross-sectional dimension between 2.0 mm and 10 mm, preferably between 3.0 mm and 8 mm, with an intercalary transverse dimension between outlet passages between 5 mm and 10 mm, preferably between 6 mm and 8 mm.

10. Capsule according to any of the preceding claims, comprising first and second outlet passages configured according to at least one of: a first exit passage arranged centered in the central region, preferably symmetrically with respect to the central axis (X), including in a circular shape, a plurality of secondary exit passages arranged symmetrically around the central region, at least approximately in the form of segments of a circular ring, extending along at least part of a circular reference alignment.

11. Capsule according to any of the preceding claims, comprising first and second outlet passages configured according to at least one of: a first exit passage with a characteristic transverse dimension, for example diameter, between 2.0 mm and 7 mm, preferably between 3.0 mm and 6 mm, a plurality of, preferably four, secondary exit passages with at least one of shape and dimension at least approximately equal, each of which having a characteristic transverse dimension along the radial direction between 3.0 mm and 7 mm, and a preferred mode between 4.0 mm and 6 mm.

12. Capsule according to any of the preceding claims, comprising an outlet chamber (B) downstream of the collection chamber (A) of edible substance and delimited downstream, in relation to the prevailing direction of fluid flow, by a base wall comprising one or more outlet passages, wherein the outlet chamber (B) is preferably confined by different compostable materials upstream and downstream.

13. Capsule according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the container portion comprises a container projection portion extending downstream of the side wall portion and comprising the base wall so as to form an outlet chamber (B) downstream of the collection chamber (A).

14. Capsule according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the container portion comprises a container projection portion configured according to at least one of: so that the outlet chamber (B) has a transverse dimension (YB) that corresponds to a reduction of the transverse dimension of the upstream container part, relative to the prevailing fluid flow direction, so that it forms an inner rim portion, such that it has an axial extension with a dimension that is at least one of: greater than the wall thickness of the base wall, between 2.0 mm and 3.5 mm, preferably between 2.3 mm and 3 mm.

15. Capsule according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the container part comprises a container projection portion extending inward from the side wall portion thereby configuring an inner flange portion extending in at least approximately a transverse direction (Y).

16. Capsule according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the container portion comprises a container projection portion that forms an interior flange portion proportioned so that it extends from the downstream region of the side wall and along the perimeter according to at least one of: such that it has a radial extension with a dimension that is at least one of: greater than the wall thickness dimension of the base wall, between 1.0 mm and 5 mm, preferably between 2.0 mm and 4 mm, so that it provides retention support to the perimeter region of a third compostable material (III) configured with a filter-type structure so that it allows retention of edible substance particles upstream of the outlet chamber (B).

17. Capsule according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the base wall has a wall thickness including at least one of the average thickness and maximum thickness, configured according to at least one of: less than the wall thickness of the top wall portion of the lid portion, at least approximately equal to or greater than the wall thickness of the side wall of the container portion, and / or because the capsule is configured in such a way that the container portion comprises a base wall having a wall thickness, including at least one medium thickness and maximum thickness, between 0.5 mm and 1.8 mm, preferably between 0.7 mm and 1.3 mm.

18. Capsule according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the lid portion comprises one or more inlet passage regions and the container portion comprises one or more outlet passages, wherein the inlet passage regions are configured according to at least one of the following: distributed over a total area of ​​the lid top wall smaller than the total area occupied by the outlet passage regions on the base wall, having a larger characteristic dimension along a transverse direction (Y) that is smaller than a smaller characteristic dimension of the outlet passages downstream of the outlet chamber (B) so that hydraulic pressure compensation is permitted inside the capsule.

19. Capsule according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the base wall comprises one or more outlet passages with a cut having a predetermined cutting geometry.

20. Capsule according to the preceding claim, wherein the predetermined cutting geometry is selected from a list consisting of: cross-shaped opening, star-shaped opening, triangular opening, hexagon-shaped opening, "Y"-shaped opening, spiral opening, multiple micro-holes, petal-shaped opening, fan-shaped opening from a central zone, honeycomb-shaped opening, and combinations thereof.

21. Capsule according to any of claims 18 and 19, wherein the predetermined cutting geometry is centered on the base wall of the container.

22. Capsule according to any of claims 18 to 20, wherein the predetermined cutting geometry defines triangular flaps arranged to allow fluid passage, in particular a cross-shaped opening, a "Y"-shaped opening or a star-shaped opening, or a plurality of sectorial openings, each sectorial opening comprising two cuts, forming three or more arms radiating from a center.

23. Capsule according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the base wall comprises at least two substantially linear and obliquely arranged outlet passages, preferably perpendicular to each other, so as to jointly define a cross-shaped outlet opening.

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