U.S. patent application number 13/133442 was filed with the patent office on 2012-01-12 for capsule for preparing a beverage by centrifugation in a beverage preparation device and device adapted therefore.
This patent application is currently assigned to NESTEC S.A.. Invention is credited to Jean-Paul Denisart, Christian Jarisch, Alexandre Perentes, Antoine Ryser, Alfred Yoakim.
Application Number | 20120009304 13/133442 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 40578554 |
Filed Date | 2012-01-12 |
United States Patent
Application |
20120009304 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Perentes; Alexandre ; et
al. |
January 12, 2012 |
CAPSULE FOR PREPARING A BEVERAGE BY CENTRIFUGATION IN A BEVERAGE
PREPARATION DEVICE AND DEVICE ADAPTED THEREFORE
Abstract
Capsule (1) insert able in a beverage production device (23) for
preparing a beverage from a substance contained in the capsule by
introducing liquid in the capsule and passing liquid through the
substance using centrifugal forces for producing the beverage which
is centrifuged peripherally in the capsule relatively to a central
axis (A) of the capsule corresponding to an axis of rotation during
the centrifuging operation comprising: an enclosure containing a
predetermined amount of beverage substance, a cup-like shaped body
(2), an upper wall (3) for closing the body, wherein it comprises a
flange-like rim (4) extending outwardly from the body which
comprises an annular raising portion (8) forming a restriction for
the centrifuged liquid flow path when said portion is engaged by a
pressing surface of the beverage production device.
Inventors: |
Perentes; Alexandre;
(Lausanne, CH) ; Jarisch; Christian; (Lutry,
CH) ; Yoakim; Alfred; (St-Legier-la Chiesaz, CH)
; Denisart; Jean-Paul; (La Conversion, CH) ;
Ryser; Antoine; (Lausanne, CH) |
Assignee: |
NESTEC S.A.
Vevey
CH
|
Family ID: |
40578554 |
Appl. No.: |
13/133442 |
Filed: |
December 8, 2009 |
PCT Filed: |
December 8, 2009 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/EP2009/066573 |
371 Date: |
August 19, 2011 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
426/110 ;
426/431; 99/295 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47J 31/22 20130101;
A23L 2/395 20130101; B65D 85/8043 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
426/110 ;
426/431; 99/295 |
International
Class: |
A47J 31/34 20060101
A47J031/34; A23G 1/56 20060101 A23G001/56; A23F 3/18 20060101
A23F003/18; B65D 85/72 20060101 B65D085/72; A23F 5/26 20060101
A23F005/26 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Dec 9, 2008 |
EP |
08171069.1 |
Claims
1. Capsule that can be inserted into a beverage production device
for preparing a beverage from a substance contained in the capsule
by introducing liquid in the capsule and passing liquid through the
substance using centrifugal forces for producing the beverage which
is centrifuged peripherally in the capsule relative to a central
axis of the capsule corresponding to an axis of rotation during the
centrifuging operation comprising: an enclosure containing an
amount of beverage substance, a cup-like shaped body comprising a
sidewall, an upper outer wall for closing the body, and a
flange-like rim extending outwardly from the body comprising an
annular raising portion forming a restriction for the centrifuged
liquid flowpath when the portion is engaged by a pressing surface
of the beverage production device.
2. Capsule according to claim 1, wherein the annular raising
portion extends in a direction opposite to a bottom of the
body.
3. Capsule according to claim 1, wherein the annular raising
portion extends a certain height ("d") from a relatively flat
annular inward portion of the rim merging with the sidewall.
4. Capsule according to claim 3, wherein the annular raising
portion creates an increased thickness ("d+d1") on the inward
portion.
5. Capsule according to claim 3, wherein the annular inward portion
forms a sealed portion for the upper wall.
6. Capsule according to claim 1, wherein the annular raising
portion extends in a direction substantially perpendicular to a
transversal plane of extension of the flange-like rim.
7. Capsule according to claim 1, wherein the annular raising
portion is rigid.
8. Capsule according to claim 1, wherein the annular raising
portion is made integral with the flange-like rim.
9. Capsule according to claim 1, wherein the lower surface of the
flange-like rim merging with the sidewall of the body is free of
any projection in a direction opposed to the annular raising
portion.
10. Capsule according to claim 1, wherein the flange-like rim
comprises an annular groove on a surface directly opposed to the
annular raising portion.
11. Capsule according to claim 10, wherein the annular raising
portion is embossed in the flange-like rim.
12. Capsule according to claim 10, wherein the cup-like shaped body
comprises a material selected from the group consisting of
aluminium and plastics.
13. Capsule according to claim 1, wherein the annular raising
portion is a separate element and attached to the flange-like
rim.
14. Capsule according to claim 13, wherein the annular raising
portion is made of rubber elastic material.
15. Capsule according to claim 1, wherein the raising portion
comprises a gas vent means.
16. A method of using a capsule comprising: inserting into a
beverage production device a capsule comprising a capsule
comprising an enclosure containing an amount of beverage substance,
a cup-like shaped body comprising a sidewall, an upper outer wall
for closing the body, and a flange-like rim extending outwardly
from the body comprising an annular raising portion forming a
restriction for the centrifuged liquid flowpath when the portion is
engaged by a pressing surface of the beverage production device;
preparing a beverage from a substance contained in the capsule by
introducing liquid in the capsule and passing liquid through the
substance; and using centrifugal forces for producing the beverage
which is centrifuged peripherally in the capsule relative to a
central axis of the capsule corresponding to an axis of rotation
during the centrifuging operation.
17. Beverage preparation device for producing from a capsule that
can be inserted into a beverage production device for preparing a
beverage from a substance contained in the capsule by introducing
liquid in the capsule and passing liquid through the substance
using centrifugal forces for producing the beverage which is
centrifuged peripherally in the capsule relative to a central axis
of the capsule corresponding to an axis of rotation during the
centrifuging operation the capsule comprising: an enclosure
containing an amount of beverage substance, a cup-like shaped body
comprising a sidewall, an upper outer wall for closing the body,
and a flange-like rim extending outwardly from the body comprising
an annular raising portion forming a restriction for the
centrifuged liquid flowpath when the portion is engaged by a
pressing surface of the beverage production device the beverage
device, comprising: a liquid injection head for injecting liquid in
the capsule, a capsule holder for holding the capsule in the
device, means for centrifuging the capsule; and a pressing surface
for applying a determined closing force onto the annular raising
portion of the flange-like rim for substantially closing the
flowpath to the beverage.
18. Device according to claim 17, wherein the pressing surface
and/or the capsule holder is associated with spring-loading means
for enabling the opening of a restriction flowpath for the
centrifuged liquid by the pressing surface moving relatively away
from the annular raising portion.
19. Device according to claim 18, wherein the pressing surface
forms a surface of a valve part which is separately moveable from
the injection part of the head.
20. Device according to claim 19, wherein the injection part
comprises outlet perforating members forming a filter when in
perforating engagement in the capsule for the centrifuged liquid
when engaged in the capsule.
21. Device according to claim 17, wherein the pressing surface
forms a relatively flat annular surface.
22. Device according to claim 17, wherein the capsule holder
comprises a support surface for supporting the flange-like rim of
the capsule and comprising an annular indentation indented to fit
into an annular groove of the flange-like rim.
23. Device according to claim 17, wherein the injection head
comprises a central injection needle.
24. Capsule system comprising: a capsule for the preparation of a
beverage that can be inserted into a beverage production device for
preparing a beverage from a substance contained in the capsule by
introducing liquid in the capsule and passing liquid through the
substance using centrifugal forces for producing the beverage which
is centrifuged peripherally in the capsule relative to a central
axis of the capsule corresponding to an axis of rotation during the
centrifuging operation comprising: an enclosure containing an
amount of beverage substance, a cup-like shaped body comprising a
sidewall, an upper outer wall for closing the body, and a
flange-like rim extending outwardly from the body comprising an
annular raising portion forming a restriction for the centrifuged
liquid flowpath when the portion is engaged by a pressing surface
of the beverage production device and a device, wherein the annular
raising portion of the capsule is engaged against a pressing
surface of the device for providing a valve member that delays and
restricts the flow of the centrifuged liquid leaving the capsule.
Description
[0001] The present invention relates to a capsule and a device for
preparing a beverage from a beverage substance contained in the
capsule by passing a liquid through the substance using centrifugal
forces.
[0002] It is known to prepare beverages wherein a mixture
consisting of brewed coffee and coffee powder is separated with
centrifugal forces. Such a mixture is obtained by bringing hot
water and coffee powder together for a defined time. The water is
then forced through a screen, on which screen powder material is
present.
[0003] Existing systems consist of placing the coffee powder in a
receptacle which is usually a non-removable part of a machine such
as in EP 0367 600B1. Such devices have many disadvantages. Firstly,
the coffee powder must be properly dosed manually in the
receptacle. Secondly, the centrifuged coffee waste becomes dry and
it must be removed by scraping the surface of the receptacle. As a
result, the coffee preparation requires a lot of manual handling
and is so very time consuming. Usually coffee freshness can also
vary a lot and this can impact on the cup quality because coffee
comes generally from bulk package or coffee is ground from beans in
the receptacle itself.
[0004] Also, depending on the manual dosage of coffee and the
brewing conditions (e.g., centrifugal speed, receptacle size) the
cup quality can vary a lot.
[0005] Therefore, these systems have never reached an important
commercial success.
[0006] In German patent application DE 102005007852, the machine
comprises a removable holder into which an open cup- shaped part of
the receptacle is placed; the other part or lid being attached to a
driving axis of the machine. However, a disadvantage is the
intensive manual handling. Another disadvantage is the difficulty
to control quality of the coffee due to a lack of control for the
dosing of the powder and a lack of control of the freshness of the
coffee powder.
[0007] Other devices for brewing coffee by centrifuge forces are
described in WO 2006/112691; FR2624364; EP0367600; GB2253336;
FR2686007; EP0749713; DE4240429; EP0651963; FR2726988; DE4439252;
EP0367600; FR2132310; FR2513106; FR2487661; DE3529053; FR2535597;
WO2007/041954; DE3529204; DE3719962; FR2685186; DE3241606 and U.S.
Pat. No. 4,545,296.
[0008] However, the effect of centrifugal forces to brew coffee or
prepare other food substances presents many advantages compared to
the normal brewing methods using pressure pumps. For example, in
"espresso" coffee-type brewing methods, it is very difficult to
master all the parameters which influence the quality of extraction
of the delivered coffee extract. These parameters are typically the
pressure, the flow rate which decreases with the pressure, the
compaction of the coffee powder which also influences the flow
characteristics and which depends on the coffee ground particle
size, the temperature, the water flow distribution and so on.
[0009] WO 2006/045537 relates to a capsule comprising elastic
biasing means at its flange-like rim. This capsule is intended to
be used in a coffee machine providing liquid under pressure with no
centrifugal effect being involved. The elastic biasing means is
placed between the sidewall and the rim to provide a liquid
pressure tight arrangement with the injection part of the machine.
However, the biasing means is not intended to form a valve means
with the machine which selectively opens under the force of the
centrifuged liquid. On the contrary, it serves to maintain a
liquid-tight engagement between the rim and the injection part of
the machine during the extraction of the beverage.
[0010] Therefore, there is a need for proposing a new capsule
system adapted therefore for which the extraction parameters can be
better and more independently controlled for improving quality of
the delivered food liquid.
[0011] There is also a need for providing a solution enabling to
improve the extraction characteristics, i.e., total solid content
(Tc), level of foam/crema, of the existing systems, e.g., coffee
preparation devices, using the principle of centrifugation.
[0012] At the same time, there is a need for a way of preparing a
beverage which is more convenient and cleaner compared to the prior
art centrifugal coffee preparation device, in particular a solution
which does not require the hassle of removing coffee waste from the
centrifuging receptacle.
[0013] For this, the invention relates to a capsule insertable in a
beverage production device for preparing a beverage from a
substance contained in the capsule by introducing liquid in the
capsule and passing liquid through the substance using centrifugal
forces for producing the beverage which is centrifuged peripherally
in the capsule relatively to a central axis of the capsule
corresponding to an axis of rotation during the centrifuging
operation comprising. The capsule comprises an enclosure containing
an amount of beverage substance, a cup-like shaped body and an
upper outer wall for closing the body. The capsule further
comprises a flange-like rim extending outwardly from the body which
comprises an annular raising portion forming a restriction for the
centrifuged liquid flowpath when said portion is engaged by a
pressing surface of the beverage production device.
[0014] The annular raising or force-setting portion forms with the
pressing surface of the beverage production device a restriction
valve means for the flow of beverage. The raising portion is more
particularly configured to selectively block and/or restrict the
flow path of the centrifuged liquid in order to delay its release
from the capsule and regulate the flow when released. More
particularly, when a sufficient pressure of the centrifuged liquid
is reached at the valve means, i.e., the centrifuged liquid forcing
against the raising portion, the valve means opens, i.e., a
restricted flow gap is provided by the pressing surface of the
device moving away from the raising portion of the capsule or vice
versa. Before the pressure of the centrifuged liquid is attained,
the valve means remain closed or restricted at a minimum gap.
Hence, the raising portion blocks or restricts the flowpath for the
centrifuged liquid. Thereby, the annular raising portion determines
the back-pressure at the valve means the centrifuged liquid must
overcome to pass through the valve for a certain flow rate.
[0015] Furthermore, It should be noted that the opening of the
valve means may be dependent on the rotational speed of the driving
means which drive the capsule in rotation in the beverage
production device. For a centrifugal extraction, the quality of the
beverage to be prepared depends on the control of the parameters,
in particular, the flow rate of the released beverage through the
valve means. Thereby, the flow rate is influenced by two
parameters: the rotational speed of the capsule and the
back-pressure exerted on the centrifuged liquid upstream of the
valve means. For a given back-pressure as set by the force-setting
or raising portion of the rim of the capsule, the higher the
rotational speed, the larger the flow rate. Conversely, for a given
rotational speed, the larger the back-pressure, the smaller the
flow.
[0016] Furthermore, as the valve means selectively block the
flowpath for the centrifuged liquid, a preliminary wetting step of
the beverage substance, e.g., ground coffee, can be carried out as
no liquid is yet significantly discharged from the device. As a
result of a prewetting and delayed release of the beverage, a
thorough wetting of the substance is made possible and the
interaction time between the liquid and the beverage substance,
e.g., coffee powder, substantially increases and the extraction
characteristics, e.g., coffee solid content and beverage yield, can
be significantly improved.
[0017] In a mode of the invention, the annular raising portion
extends in a direction substantially perpendicular to the
transversal plane of extension of the flange-like rim. The
orientation of the raising portion is thus configured to
selectively block the flow of the centrifuged beverage that leaves
the capsule along the flange-like rim when the capsule is rotated
around its central axis.
[0018] Preferably, the annular raising portion extends outwardly
and beyond an inward, comparatively lowered, annular portion of the
flange-like rim and in a direction opposite to the bottom of the
body.
[0019] The raising portion extends a certain height from an inner
portion of rim. The inward portion of the rim is preferably flat.
In certain embodiments, it may form an increase of thickness of the
inner portion. The lowered annular portion merges with the sidewall
and can be aligned with the upper wall, or alternatively, be placed
in the capsule away a certain distance from the upper wall. The
annular raising portion thus forms a step or protrusion extending
of said distance from such (preferably flat) inward annular portion
of the rim to ensure a surelevation independent from the thickness
of the body of the capsule. As a result, the control of the
surelevation height is made possible independently from the
thickness of the rest of the rim or body; therefore providing
flexibility in setting the desired back-force in the device while
not impacting on the overall design of the capsule, its rigidity
and/or affecting the sealing strength with the upper wall (e.g.,
upper membrane).
[0020] In a mode, the inward lowered annular portion forms the
sealing surface with the upper wall. Therefore, when the capsule is
engaged in the device, a gap is obtained between the upper outer
wall of the capsule and the compressed surface or line of the
raising portion to ensure the centrifuged liquid can more easily
circulate towards the valves after it has passed through the upper
wall, e.g., through perforations made through said wall.
[0021] In a particular mode, the annular raising portion is covered
by the upper wall (e.g., closing membrane), in particular, by
forming at least a portion of sealed surface with the upper
wall.
[0022] In a particular mode, the annular raising portion is
preferably rigid. The rigidity is here evaluated in relation to its
ability to resist compression by a pressing surface of the beverage
production device applying a closure force thereto when the capsule
is inserted in the beverage preparation device. In other words, the
raising portion remains of a relatively constant dimension during
the beverage preparation operations in the device in order for the
annular raising portion to play its role of restriction of the
beverage flowpath and to ensure a reliable opening.
[0023] In a particular mode, the annular raising portion is made
integral with the flange-like rim. Therefore, for essentially
economical reasons, the annular raising portion can be formed in
one piece together with the cup-like shaped body.
[0024] Preferably, the flange-like rim of the capsule has a lower
surface, merging with said sidewall of the body, which is shaped,
in the region directly opposed to the raising portion, to be
complementary shaped in regard to an annular supporting surface of
the capsule holder.
[0025] For this, the lower surface of the rim can be free of any
projection in the area directly opposed to the annular raising
portion. For instance, the lower surface forms an annular flat
surface extending along a plane substantially parallel to the
sealed upper surface of the rim. It can thus provide a stable
referential support, e.g., a perfectly flat position of the rim
relative to the capsule holder, which is important to avoid to form
an unbalanced mass during high-speed centrifugation.
[0026] The flange-like rim can also comprise an annular groove on
its surface directly opposed to the annular raising portion. The
annular groove can serve to receive a complementary
shaped-indentation of the beverage production device, in
particular, provided in the capsule holder. The advantage is to
mechanically support and maintain the rigidity of the annular
raising portion and prevent it from deforming under the load
exerted by the pressing surface of the beverage production device.
It also forms a position referencer for the capsule to ensure a
correct fitting of the capsule in the capsule holder to avoid an
unbalance mass, in case the capsule would be not perfectly aligned
in the capsule holder, that would create noise and/or vibrations
during centrifugation. Consequently, the flange-like rim of the
capsule can be maintained relatively thin. For instance, the rim
may be of a thickness comprised between about 0.5 and 1.5 mm.
[0027] Advantageously, the annular raising portion is embossed in
the flange-like rim. For example, the annular raising portion and
groove are made in the same operation such as when the cup-like
shaped body is formed by deep drawing or thermoforming. Embossing
can also be operated after the forming of the cavity of the body in
a subsequent operation.
[0028] The cup-like shaped body can also be produced by
injection-moulding of thermoplastics with the raising portion being
integrated in or overmoulded onto the injected body.
[0029] Preferably, the raising portion has gas vent means. The gas
vent means enables gas to escape from the enclosure of the capsule
during filling of the enclosure with liquid. In absence of such
means, a pocket of gas could form in the capsule which would
prevent the ingredients from being correctly wetted. For this, the
annular raising portion may be provided with at least one radial
indentation, preferably several radially oriented indentations, for
providing gas escape in a direction outward of the capsule. The at
least one radial indentation is preferably sized to allow selective
release of gas but retain liquid flow in the enclosure or at least
forms only a small liquid leakage. For example, 5 to 10 small
radial slots of about 10 to 200 microns, for instance about 50
microns, of height and 1 to 5 mm of width may be provided at the
periphery of the raising portion to provide appropriate gas
venting. Of course, several radial indentations may also be
provided in the raising portion.
[0030] The raising portion may also be formed as a partially melt
energy director of annular shape raising from the rim when in
sealing arrangement with the upper wall (e.g., membrane).
[0031] In another possible mode, the annular raising portion is a
separate element which is attached to the flange-like rim. For
instance, the portion may be sealed to the flange-like rim such as
by ultrasonic or heat sealing or be clipped into an annular
receiving seat or groove provided in the flange-like rim.
[0032] In this case, the annular raising portion can be made of a
compressible material such as a rubber elastic material or soft
plastic material.
[0033] The annular raising portion of the capsule can take an
inverted V- or U- or W-like shape or L-like shape.
[0034] In the context of the invention, the cup-like shaped body
can comprise aluminium and/or plastics. The cup-like shaped body
can also be made of plastics only. The capsule further comprises a
lid membrane for closing the cup-like shaped body. The capsule can
be formed of gas barrier material and closed by the membrane in a
gas impervious manner so that the freshness of the beverage
substance, e.g., roast and ground coffee particles, is maintained
for a prolonged period of time.
[0035] The membrane comprises at least a peripheral perforable area
neighbouring the sealed portion of the membrane which is sealed
onto the flange-like rim of the body.
[0036] Hence, the perforable area can be perforated by perforating
means of the beverage production device for providing a series of
liquid outlets in the capsule. Therefore, liquid being centrifuged
in the capsule can leave the capsule via the series of outlets,
then, it can exert pressure onto the annular raising portion of the
capsule. When the opening pressure is reached, the valve means
opens or enlarges for forming a flow restriction gap and the liquid
can be centrifuged outside of the capsule and be collected for
being dispensed.
[0037] In a possible alternative, the capsule of the invention
comprises a lid which is porous to liquid, at least at its
periphery, instead of a perforable membrane. The porous lid may be
formed of paper, plastic and/or aluminium.
[0038] The cup-shaped body and/or lid may also be formed of paper,
cardboard or another biodegradable material.
[0039] For substantially rigid biodegradable materials, the capsule
body may be selected amongst PLA (polylactic acid), a starch and
resin-based material, and combinations thereof.
[0040] In an embodiment, the upper outer wall is formed of an outer
perforable, non-porous, membrane and an inner porous layer. The
membrane and layer can form together a laminate. The inner porous
layer can be a filter layer such as polypropylene or polyurethane
elastomer. The perforable, liquid-tight, membrane can be aluminium
and/or plastic. The porous layer can ensure liquid tightness around
the injection needle in the central region of the upper wall as
well as improving cleanness at the perforated outlets to prevent
solids from leaving the capsule.
[0041] In another possible mode, the capsule comprises an internal
filter element inserted in the cup-shaped body. The capsule can be
closed by a lid membrane covering the internal filter. The lid
membrane can be perforable or peelable. For instance, the internal
filter element can be a plastic piece with filtering holes or slots
for filtering the centrifuged liquid such as described in patent
publication WO 2008/148646.
[0042] The capsule of the invention can comprise a substance which
is extractable, e.g., ground coffee, or dissolvable, e.g., instant
coffee or milk powder. In particular the substance can be chosen
amongst ground coffee, instant coffee, chocolate, cocoa powder,
leaf tea, instant tea, herbal tea, a creamer/whitener, a
nutritional composition (e.g., infant formula), dehydrated fruit or
plant, culinary powder and combinations thereof.
[0043] The capsule may include a gas with the food ingredients
which is protective against oxidation of the ingredients such as
nitrogen and/or carbon dioxide. The gas may be added in the
capsule, e.g., by flushing, before sealing the upper wall on the
body.
[0044] Preferably, the capsule comprises gas barrier materials
enveloping the ingredients' compartment. However, in case the
capsule is not gastight `per se`, an outer package can be used to
pack the capsule individually or in group of several capsules. In
this case, the package is removed before the capsule is inserted in
the device.
[0045] The invention also relates to the use of a capsule as
aforementioned in a beverage preparation device wherein the capsule
is centrifuged in the device.
[0046] The invention also relates to a beverage preparation device
from a capsule as aforementioned, by passing a liquid through the
beverage substance in the capsule, comprising: [0047] a liquid
injection head for injecting liquid in the capsule, [0048] a
capsule holder for holding the capsule in the device, [0049] means
for driving the capsule in centrifugation, [0050] wherein it
comprises a pressing surface for applying a determined closing
force onto the annular raising portion of the flange-like rim for
substantially closing the flowpath to the beverage.
[0051] The closing force can be determined to maintain the closure
between the annular raising portion and the pressure surface, i.e.,
the valve means, until a sufficient pressure of the centrifuged
liquid is reached directly upstream of the said portion. Such
pressure (above atmospheric pressure) can range between 0.1 and 18
bars, preferably 0.5 to 4 bars e.g., about 1.5-2 bar.
[0052] The pressing surface and/or the capsule holder is/are
associated to spring-loading means for enabling the opening of a
flow restriction gap for the centrifuged liquid by the pressing
surface moving relatively away from the annular raising portion. It
should be noted that the flow restriction gap can be opened between
the pressing surface and the capsule by a relative movement between
each other. This relative movement can be obtained by either the
pressing surface moving away from the capsule or the capsule moving
away from the pressing surface such as by the capsule holder being
the mobile element. A third option is to have both the pressing
surface of the injection head and the surface supporting the
capsule holder to move against the force of a spring-biasing
means.
[0053] In a preferred mode of the device, the pressing surface
forms a surface of a valve part which is separately moveable from
the injection part of the head. As a result, the valve means can
act independently from the pressure of contact applied by the
injection part of the head. In a preferred design, the injection
part comprises perforating members for both injection water in the
capsule and extracting centrifuged liquid from the capsule.
[0054] More particularly, the injection part comprises outlet
perforating members forming filtering means when in perforating
engagement in the capsule for the centrifuged liquid when engaged
in the capsule.
[0055] Therefore, by making independent the valve part from the
rest of the head, the valve can open without affecting the relative
position of the perforating members with the capsule.
[0056] In a particular mode, the pressing surface forms a
relatively flat annular surface onto which the annular raising
portion of the capsule can press. Hence, a closing action is
promoted by an engagement at the valve means under the form of an
annular sealing line. Preferably, the surface is substantially
parallel to the flange-like rim of the capsule. Of course, the
pressing surface could also have a slightly concave or convex line
of curvature in radial direction relative to the axis of
centrifugation.
[0057] According to another feature of the device, the capsule
holder can comprise a support surface for supporting the
flange-like rim of the capsule and comprising an annular
indentation indented to fit into an annular groove of the
flange-like rim. As aforementioned, this configuration of the
support surface of the capsule holder avoids the deformation of the
capsule in the device when the injection head is engaged in
compression against the flange-like rim of the capsule.
[0058] In another feature of the device, the injection head
comprises a central injection needle. The needle is configured to
perforate the lid membrane of the capsule. The needle may terminate
by one or more liquid inlets for injecting liquid in the capsule.
Preferably, the needle is centrally position, i.e., aligned with
the axis of rotation. The needle could be omitted if the capsule
has a central inlet port provided in its upper wall.
[0059] The invention may also relate to a system including the
combination of one or more capsules as aforementioned and a device
as aforementioned, or a capsule inserted in a device as
aforementioned.
[0060] Additional features of the invention will appear in the
detailed description of the figures which follows:
[0061] FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of a sealed capsule of the
system according to the invention;
[0062] FIG. 2 is a bottom view of the capsule of FIG. 1;
[0063] FIG. 3 is a cross sectional view of the capsule of FIGS. 1
and 2;
[0064] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the beverage production
device of the invention;
[0065] FIG. 5 is a cross sectional view of a beverage production
device with a capsule inside;
[0066] FIG. 6 is a detailed cross sectional view of the view of
FIG. 5 in a closed configuration of the valve means;
[0067] FIG. 7 is an enlarged cross sectional view of the view of
FIG. 6 in a closed configuration of the valve means;
[0068] FIG. 8 is an enlarged cross sectional view of the view of
FIG. 6 in an open configuration of the valve means;
[0069] FIG. 9 is bottom perspective view of the cover part of the
device showing a detail;
[0070] FIG. 10 is a cross sectional view of the capsule according
to another embodiment;
[0071] FIG. 11A shows an enlarged cross sectional view of the view
of FIG. 10 in a closed configuration of the valve means;
[0072] FIG. 11B shows an enlarged cross sectional view of the view
of FIG. 10 in an open configuration of the valve means when the
liquid is centrifuged out of the capsule;
[0073] FIG. 12 is a cross sectional view of the capsule according
to another embodiment;
[0074] FIG. 13 is a cross sectional view of the capsule according
to another embodiment;
[0075] FIG. 14 is a cross sectional view of the capsule according
to another embodiment in which the upper wall is formed of a
laminate comprising an upper membrane and a lower porous layer;
[0076] FIG. 15 is a cross sectional view of the capsule according
to another embodiment in which the membrane is sealed on top of the
raising or force-setting portion;
[0077] FIG. 16 is a cross sectional view of another variant of the
capsule of the invention.
[0078] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, a preferred single-use capsule 1
of the invention generally comprises a dished body 2 onto which is
sealed a perforable membrane 3. The membrane 3 is sealed onto a
peripheral rim 4 of the body at an inward annular sealed portion 5.
The rim 4 can extend outwards forming an annular sealed small
portion 5 of between about 2-10 mm. The dished body comprises a
bottom wall 6 and a side wall 7 which preferably widens in
direction of the large open end of the body opposed to the bottom
wall. The dished body is preferably rigid or semi-rigid. It can be
formed of a food grade plastic, e.g., polypropylene, with a gas
barrier layer such as EVOH and the like or aluminium alloy or a
laminate of plastic and aluminium alloy or a biodegradable material
(e.g., PLA or starch and fibre-based resin). The membrane 3 can be
made of a thinner material such as a plastic film also including a
barrier layer or aluminium alloy or a combination of plastic and
aluminium alloy. The membrane is usually of a thickness between 20
and 250 microns, for example. The membrane is perforated for
creating the water inlet as will be described later in the
description. The membrane also further comprises a perforable
peripheral area.
[0079] Preferably, the capsule forms a symmetry of revolution
around a central axis A. However, it should be noted that the
capsule may not necessarily have a circular section around axis A
but may take another form such as a square, a rectangle, or another
polygonal form.
[0080] According to an aspect of the invention, the capsule of the
invention comprises an annular raising portion 8 extending upwardly
from the flange-like rim 4 and forms a force-setting means of a
valve means when inserted in the beverage production device as will
explained later. More particularly, the raising portion 8 extends
in relief from the sealed portion 5 of the flange-like rim which
extends along plane P. The sealed portion 5 thus forms an inner
lowered annular portion of the rim relative to the portion 8. The
raising portion thereby extends in a direction opposite to bottom 6
of the body. The raising portion 8 forms part of a valve means for
selectively blocking the flow of the centrifuged liquid coming out
of the capsule as will be explained later in the present
description.
[0081] The portion 8 may not necessarily form a continuous annular
portion. In particular, it may be partially or totally interrupted
or indented by at least one gas venting channel 80. The channel 80
is radially oriented to create a passage forming a gas
communication through the portion to allow gas contained in the
enclosure of the capsule to be pushed out of the capsule during the
filling of the capsule with liquid. Instead of channels, the
indentations could be formed by a multitude of micro-corrugations
sufficient to render the raising portion permeable to the gas. It
should be noted that a certain liquid leakage can be admitted
through these vent means 80 provided the pressure loss created by
the raising portion remains sufficient to create a rise in pressure
in the enclosure and then the move in opening of the valve
means.
[0082] A first embodiment of a system including a capsule of the
invention and a beverage preparation device is illustrated in FIGS.
4 to 8 and is described now. The system comprises a capsule 1 as
aforementioned and a beverage preparation device 23. The device has
a module 24 which a capsule can be inserted in. The capsule
contains a food substance for being brewed and the capsule is
removed from the module after use for being discarded (e.g., for
waste or recycling of the organic and inorganic raw materials). The
module 24 is in fluid communication with a water supply such as a
water reservoir 25. A fluid transport means such as a pump 26 is
provided in the fluid circuit 27 between the module and the water
supply. A water heater 28 is further provided to heat water in the
fluid circuit before water enters the module. The water heater can
be inserted in the fluid circuit to heat fresh water coming from
the reservoir. Alternatively, the water heater can be placed in the
water reservoir itself that becomes a water boiler in such case. Of
course, water can also be taken directly from a domestic water
supply via a water plug connection. The device may further comprise
control means and activation means for activating the beverage
preparation method (not illustrated).
[0083] Water can be fed in the module 24 at low pressure or even at
gravity pressure. For example, a pressure of between 0 and 2 bar
above atmospheric pressure can be envisaged at the water inlet of
the module. Water at higher pressure than 2 bar could also be
delivered if a pressure pump is utilized such as a piston pump.
[0084] The brewing module 24 can comprise two main capsule encasing
sub-assemblies 29, 30; mainly comprising a water injection
sub-assembly or water injection head and a liquid receiving
subassembly including a capsule holder. The two subassemblies form
positioning and centring means for referencing the capsule in
rotation in the device. The two subassemblies' closes together to
encase a capsule therein for example by a bayonet-type connection
system 31 or any other suitable closure means such as a mechanism
based on a jaw-type closure principle. The liquid receiving
subassembly 30 comprises a liquid duct 32, for example, protruding
on a side of the subassembly for guiding the centrifuged liquid
coming out of the capsule to a service receptacle such as a cup or
glass. The liquid duct is in communication with a liquid receiver
33 forming a U-like or V-like shaped annular section surrounding a
capsule holder comprising a rotating drum 34 into which the capsule
can be inserted as illustrated in FIG. 5. The liquid receiver 33
defines a collecting cavity 63 for collecting the liquid as will be
explained later in the description. Below the liquid receiving
subassembly 30, are placed means for driving the capsule receiving
drum 34 in rotation inside the subassembly.
[0085] The driving means preferably comprise a rotary motor 40
which can be supplied by electricity or gas power. The water
injection subassembly comprises a water inlet side comprising a
water inlet 35 communicating upstream with the water fluid circuit
27.
[0086] The rotary drum 34 prolongs itself axially by a rotating
shaft 37 which is maintained in rotational relationship relative to
an outer base 38 of the liquid receiver 33 by a rotational guiding
means 39 like a ball bearing or needle bearing. Therefore, the
rotary drum is designed to rotate around a median axis I whereas
the outer base 38 of the receiver is fixed relative to the device.
A mechanical coupling can be placed at the interface between the
rotating shaft 37 of the drum and the shaft 42 of the motor 40.
[0087] Considering the water injection subassembly 29, it comprises
a centrally arranged water injector 45 which is fixed relative to
longitudinal axis I of the device. The water injector comprises a
central tubular member 46 for transporting water from the inlet 35
to a water outlet 47 that is intended to protrude inside the
enclosure 14 of the capsule. The central tubular member extends by
a hollow needle 90 for intruding in the capsule and injecting
liquid therein. For this, the water outlet is associated by a
puncturing means such as a sharp tubular tip 48 that is able to
create a punctured hole through the membrane lid 3 of the
capsule.
[0088] About the water injector is mounted a rotary engaging part
or cover part 49. The engaging part 49 has a central bore for
receiving the water injector and rotational guiding means such as a
ball or needle bearing 50 inserted between the part 49 and the
injector 45. A sealing means 89 is positioned between the ball
bearing 50 and the injection needle 90 for preventing ingress of
liquid from the capsule inside the bearing.
[0089] The capsule engaging subassembly 29 may further comprise a
tubular portion of skirt 62 which protrudes in the internal annular
chamber 63 of the liquid receiving subassembly 30 when the two
subassemblies are closed relatively one another about a capsule.
This tubular portion of skirt 62 forms an impact wall for the
centrifuged liquid which exits the centrifuged capsule. This
portion 62 is preferably fixed on the subassembly 29. The
subassembly further comprises a handling portion 64 for
facilitating the connection on the liquid receiving subassembly 30.
This handling portion 64 can have a knurled peripheral surface for
handling. The handling portion can be fixed on the fixed base of
the subassembly 29 by screws 67.
[0090] This portion could of course be replaced by a lever
mechanism or a similar handling means.
[0091] According to an aspect of the invention, the rotary engaging
part comprises perforating members 53 located at the periphery of
the part. The perforating members are placed for perforating the
membrane 3 of the capsule at its periphery, more particularly, in
the annular peripheral area of the top membrane 3 of the capsule.
More particularly, the perforating members are formed of sharp
projections protruding from the lower surface of the engaging part.
The membrane is preferably perforated when the water injection
subassembly 29 is moved relative to the capsule, when the capsule
is in place in the capsule holder of the lower subassembly 30,
during closure of the device, i.e., of the two sub-assemblies 29,
30, about the capsule.
[0092] The perforating elements are preferably distributed along at
least one (or more) circular path of the part. In a preferred mode,
the perforating members 53 are solid (i.e., not traversed by a
liquid supply conduit) at the tip.
[0093] A valve means 51 is provided in the system in the flow path
of the centrifuged liquid downstream of the perforating elements.
The valve means can be any suitable valve providing opening or
enlargement of the flow path of the centrifuged liquid leaving the
capsule when a given threshold of pressure is attained. The valve
means is calibrated to open at a given pressure. For instance, the
opening pressure is of about 0.5 to 4 bar, preferably of from 1.5
to 2.5 bar, e.g., of about 2 bar, of pressure. Importantly, the
calibration depends on the distance "d" of the force-setting
portion 8 of the capsule. This is mainly this distance that sets
the back-pressure of the valve means by automatically adjusting the
pre-load of the valve as will be described later. The calibration
of the valve will so determine the flow rate of the delivered
beverage for a given rotational speed. In the preferred mode, as
illustrated, the valve means comprise a portion of engagement,
i.e., a raising portion 8 of the capsule, which projects from the
flange-like rim 4 of the capsule, more particularly, from the outer
surface of the sealed portion 5. This portion of engagement 8 forms
a projection extending upwards from the substantially flat surface
of the rim or from comparatively lowered, inward sealing portion 5
of the rim. The portion 8 can be formed integrally from the
flange-like rim. In such case, the body 2 of the capsule including
the flange-like rim is preferably made of plastics and/or
aluminium. On the opposed side, the valve means comprises an
engaging surface 83 of the rotary cover part 49. As shown on FIG.
7, a gap for liquid is left between the membrane 3 and the raising
portion 8 thereby enabling liquid to traverse the membrane in the
radial direction, towards the valve means, without being
excessively hindered or blocked in the capsule by the lower surface
54 of the cover. The engaging surface 83 may comprise various
shapes depending on the particular shape of the projection 8. In a
preferred mode, the engaging surface 83 is a substantially planar
surface such as an annular flat surface. The engaging surface may
be formed as an annular recessed portion of surface at the
periphery of the lower surface 54 of the cover part 49 thereby
allowing the base of the perforating members to be lower than the
tip or upper compressed surface of the projection 8.
[0094] In all embodiments of the invention, the height of the
raising portion (d) relative to the inner portion 5 of the
flange-like rim extending along plane (P) as illustrated on FIG. 7
can be comprised between 0.2 and 10 mm, more preferably, between
0.5 and 5 mm, most preferably between 0.8 and 2 mm.
[0095] It should be noted that the engaging surface 83 may take
many different shapes other than flat such as concave or
convex.
[0096] As illustrated in FIG. 8, the flange-like rim of the capsule
can comprise an annular groove 81 on its surface 82 opposed to the
projection 8, i.e., the lower surface 82 of the flange-like rim or
surface directed towards the bottom 6 of the body. The capsule
holder of the device comprises a support portion comprising a
support surface from which extends an annular indentation 92 which
matches the shape of the annular groove 81 of the capsule. Hence,
the indentation 92 can serve to position and reference the capsule
in the device as well as to support the annular projection 8 of the
valve means when being compressed by the rotary part 49. The
indentation 92 can be a sharp annular continuous projection or
formed of discontinuous projections distributed on an annular path
of the surface of the capsule holder. For instance, the projection
and its counter-shape 81 can be formed during the forming of the
body of the capsule such as by a manufacturing operation of
embossing, deep drawing, injection moulding or thermoforming.
[0097] The valve means 51 is designed to close under the force of a
resilient closure load obtained by a load generating system 70
comprising a spring-biasing element 71. The spring-biasing element
71 applies a resilient load onto the rotary cover plate 49. The
load primarily distributes itself onto the engaging surface 83
acting in closure against the raising portion 8 of the capsule.
Therefore, the valve normally closes off the flow path for the
centrifuged liquid until a sufficient pressure is exerted on the
protrusion by the centrifuged liquid exiting through the orifices
created by the perforating elements. The liquid flows thus between
the membrane 3 and the upper surface 54 of the rotary cover part 49
and forces the valve 51 to open by pushing the whole cover part 49
upwards against the force of the spring-biasing element 71, as
illustrated in FIG. 8. The centrifuged liquid can thus be ejected
at a high velocity on the impact surface 62.
[0098] The load generating system 70 can be made adjustable as
illustrated in FIG. 5 or 6, for controlling the opening pressure of
the valve means. In particular, the system 70 can comprises a base
55 into which is fitted a first end of the spring-biasing element
71. At the opposed end of the spring-biasing element 71 is fixed,
an abutting member 56 further connected to a screw element 57. The
base 55, element 71 and abutting member 56 are housed into a
tubular frame 58. The screw element 57 and tubular frame 58 form
together an actuating means 72 comprising a complementary thread 73
enabling to tune the compressive load of the spring-biasing element
71 on the engaging part 49.
[0099] It should be noticed that the elastic means for exerting the
load on the valve means can be designed differently. For instance,
the elastic means 71, e.g., a spring or rubber-elastic element, can
be directly associated to the surface 83 independently from surface
54, e.g., by a separate annular block, or can be associated to a
ring-shaped protrusion 8 of the valve means.
[0100] As illustrated in FIGS. 8 and 9, the lower surface 54 of the
cover part 49 comprises a series of perforating elements or
projections 53 being distributed in a circular pattern in a
peripheral region of the surface. Each perforating element 53 will
produce a perforation in the upper membrane of the capsule and
therefore a passage for the centrifuged liquid for leaving the
capsule engaged in rotation. The number of perforating elements can
be changed by removing the cover plate and replacing it by a plate
having a higher number of perforating elements. Preferably, the
surface can comprise channelling means 84 formed by a series of
channels 85 provided in the surface 54 in order to ensure that a
controlled flow gap remains between the membrane and the cover part
between the perforating elements and the valve means. The channels
85 can be formed by relief elements 86, 87 forming distancing
means. For instance, a series of relief elements 87 can be provided
between the perforating elements 53 to ensure that the membrane
does not collapse between the perforating elements which would so
cause the blockage of the liquid flow. Furthermore, another series
of relief elements 86 can be placed in the flow path between the
perforating elements 53 and the valve means to further ensure the
presence of channels between the surface 54 and the flange-like rim
4 of the capsule so that the flow of liquid is properly channelled
towards the valve means. It should be noticed that the distancing
means, e.g., a series of discrete relief elements 86, 87, for
maintaining a flow gap could be formed onto the flange-like rim of
the capsule. For instance, the flange like-rim can comprise a
series of small concentrically-arranged projections distributed
inwardly relative to the ring-shaped projection 8 (not
illustrated).
[0101] In another mode of the invention, the annular projection 8
on the surface of the capsule is formed by an element which is made
of a material which is different from the material of the
flange-like rim of the capsule. The element can be made of a
compressible material. The material can be a resilient or
non-resilient material. In particular, the element can be made of
plastic or can be a rubber O-ring which is sealed onto the
flange-like rim. The ring can, for instance, be sealed by heating
or ultrasounds or deposited as a liquid, e.g., liquid silicone
rubber (LSR), and allowed to harden onto the rim. The projecting
element 8 may also be associated by other means to the capsule such
as by an adhesive or by clipping into an annular groove of the
capsule. FIGS. 10 and 11A, 11B illustrate another embodiment of the
invention in which the raising portion 8 is formed as a step
raising from the lowered sealed portion 5 of the flange-like rim.
The step has a substantially flat upper surface which cooperates in
pressing engagement with the lower engaging surface 83 of the cover
part 49 of the device to form the valve means. The step may have a
width (w) that exceeds the height (d) of the raising portion.
Furthermore, the width (w) of the raising portion may also equal or
even exceed the width of the sealed portion 5. As apparent in FIG.
11B, a gap is maintained between the upper outer wall 3 of the
capsule and the top surface of the raising portion allowing the
liquid to circulate toward the valve means 51 without being
significantly hindered.
[0102] In this mode as well as in any other mode of the present
invention, the device may comprise a separation of the cover part
49 into a perforating inner block 49a and an outer valve block 49b.
The valve block 49b is annular and independently mounted relative
to block 49a against the force of a resilient means 710, e.g., a
spring. With such de-coupling configuration of the cover part 49,
the pressure load as generated by the valve means 51 is independent
from the pressure load applied by the perforating block. Therefore,
the opening or enlargement of the valve means 51 as a function of
the rotational speed of the capsule can be more reliably controlled
during centrifugation. In addition, the position of the outlet
perforating members 53 relative to the capsule is not affected when
the valve means 51 opens. The filtering of the extracted liquid
between the members 53 and the membrane 3 is controlled by the
closure of the part 49a onto the capsule and thereby remains
constant and effective irrespective of the relative position of the
valve means 51.
[0103] The capsule of FIG. 10 may further comprise a liquid
tightness producing member 91 that engages the needle of the device
in a liquid-tight manner (also illustrated in the capsule of FIG.
1). The member 91 ensures that liquid cannot leak out of the
capsule through the perforation created by the needle in the
membrane. The tightness producing member 91 can be placed on the
outer face of the upper wall 3 or on the inner face of this wall.
The tightness producing member is preferably made of a rubber
elastic and/or fibrous material. It may also extend along the whole
outer surface of the wall 3. Other equivalent variations of a
capsule comprising a central tightness member are described in
co-pending European patent application No. 09169679.9. entitled
"Capsule for the preparation of a beverage by centrifugation".
[0104] The capsule of FIG. 12 illustrates another embodiment in
which the perforable membrane constituting the outer wall is
replaced by a porous wall 36. The upper wall thus forms a wall
which retains beverage ingredients inside the capsule but allows
the centrifuged liquid to leave the capsule without requiring
perforation. Additionally, liquid may also be introduced in the
capsule through the wall without necessarily requiring perforation
by a central needle. The wall may be porous to liquid only
partially along the wall, e.g., only at the outlet region or inner
region or both. The wall may comprise pores of a size comprised
between 50 and 500 microns, preferably between 80 and 300 microns.
Suitable material for the wall 36 is filter-paper, woven or
non-woven polymer(s), a polymeric membrane with size-controlled
holes and combinations thereof.
[0105] The capsule of FIG. 13 differs in that the body of the
capsule is formed of at least two components 43, 52 having
different rigidity. A first component 43 of the body forms the
flange-like rim 4 and a second component 52 of the body forms the
essential part of the sidewall 7 and bottom 8. The second component
52 is preferably of a more flexible material than the first
component. The second component can be, e.g., a thin aluminium
and/or a polymeric foil whereas the first component 43 can be hard
plastic. The rim component 43 extends by a connection portion 59
onto which is sealed the flexible lower component 52. Of course,
the upper wall can be a porous wall as in embodiment of FIG. 12 or
a perforable membrane as in previous embodiments.
[0106] The capsule of FIG. 14 differs from any other embodiment in,
at least, that the upper wall 3 closing on the body of the capsule
is formed of at least two layers 37, 38; respectively, an outer
perforable, liquid-impervious layer 41 and an inner liquid porous
layer 68. The multi-layer preferably forms a laminate, i.e., a
bonded layering arrangement possibly comprising a sealant layer
in-between. The inner layer 68 may be formed of resilient plastic
such as polypropylene or polyurethane elastomer. The upper layer 41
may be formed of aluminium or an alu-PP complex. The inner layer 68
may also be sealed to the upper layer in one or more discrete
regions, e.g., in the central region only, and can be loose
relative to the upper layer outside said region(s). This can allow
ensuring both a liquid-tight arrangement around the central
injection needle of the device to avoid bypass of water on the top
side of the capsule and a filter function at the periphery of the
wall 3 where the liquid is extracted by the centrifugation effect.
The capsule of FIG. 14 can be chosen amongst packaging materials
that have additionally gas barrier properties in particular for the
body 2 and outer membrane 41.
[0107] The capsule of FIG. 15 differs from any other embodiment in
that the upper wall 3 closing the body of the capsule is sealed
onto the top of the raising portion 8. The flange-like rim 4 of the
capsule comprises an annular lowered portion 5 merging with the
sidewall 7 of the body at one end and merging with the stepped
force-setting portion 8 at its other end. However, the lowered
portion 5 is distant from the upper wall 3 of distance "d"
representing the height of the raising portion 8. The lowered
portion 5 has a thickness "d1" smaller than the overall thickness
"d+d1" of the rim at the raising portion 8. The thickness dl can be
substantially equal to the thickness of the sidewall. Preferably,
the width of the inner portion 5 is larger than its thickness "d1".
The capsule of FIG. 18 represents another embodiment, in which the
force setting portion 8 is formed by a partially melt energy
director onto which is sealed the upper wall 3. The energy director
89 has an initial height (in dotted lines) larger than "d" before
ultrasonic sealing of the upper wall 3 but is then reduced to lower
height "d" after sealing. As other obvious variations to the
present invention, the capsule of the invention can also be a
refillable container with an upper wall which can be opened for
charging a dose of beverage ingredients in the enclosure. For
example, the upper wall is connected to the body by press-fitting.
In order to maintain a connection between the upper wall and the
body, the two elements can thereby be connected by a local flexible
plastic hinge.
* * * * *