U.S. patent application number 13/703583 was filed with the patent office on 2013-04-11 for capsule having a rupture initiation area.
The applicant listed for this patent is Alain Frydman. Invention is credited to Alain Frydman.
Application Number | 20130087051 13/703583 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 43640065 |
Filed Date | 2013-04-11 |
United States Patent
Application |
20130087051 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Frydman; Alain |
April 11, 2013 |
CAPSULE HAVING A RUPTURE INITIATION AREA
Abstract
The invention relates to a capsule having a body in the form of
a cup and a membrane lid, together defining a chamber containing a
substance for the preparation of a drink. The body includes an
outer substantially frusto conical side wall and a base integral
with the outer side wall and closing said outer side wall at a rear
end of the body. The membrane lid closes the other end of the outer
side wall. The base is formed by a peripheral region defining the
rear end of the body and by a central region extending into the
capsule in relation to the rear end, defining a recess outside the
body. The central region includes at least one weakened area which
is intended to break at least partially under the pressure of a
pressurized liquid.
Inventors: |
Frydman; Alain; (Paris,
FR) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Frydman; Alain |
Paris |
|
FR |
|
|
Family ID: |
43640065 |
Appl. No.: |
13/703583 |
Filed: |
June 9, 2011 |
PCT Filed: |
June 9, 2011 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/FR11/51320 |
371 Date: |
December 11, 2012 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
99/295 ; 426/77;
426/82 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65D 85/8043 20130101;
A47J 31/3623 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
99/295 ; 426/77;
426/82 |
International
Class: |
B65D 85/804 20060101
B65D085/804 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Jun 11, 2010 |
FR |
1054651 |
Jun 11, 2010 |
FR |
1054652 |
Jun 11, 2010 |
FR |
1054653 |
Dec 16, 2010 |
EP |
10306432.5 |
Dec 16, 2010 |
EP |
10306436.6 |
Claims
1. A capsule for extraction of a beverage under pressure,
comprising: a body in cup shaped form and a membrane lid together
defining a chamber containing a substance for the preparation of a
beverage, the body comprising: an outer substantially frusto
conical side wall and a base formed integrally as one piece with an
outer side wall and closing the outer side wall at a rear end of
the body, the membrane lid closing the outer side wall at a front
end of the body, wherein the capsule being adapted so as to be
disposed in an extraction device in a manner such that an
extraction liquid under pressure enters into the capsule through
the base and exits from it through the membrane lid, wherein the
base comprises: a peripheral region defining a rear end of the
body, and a central region returning towards the interior of the
capsule in relation to the rear end while defining a recess on the
exterior of the body, wherein the central region comprising at
least one weakened area which is intended to break at least
partially under the pressure of a pressurized liquid.
2. The capsule according to claim 1, wherein the central region
further comprises a bottom portion and a central stud protruding
from the bottom portion towards the exterior.
3. The capsule according to claim 2, wherein the central region
further comprises an annular rib protruding towards the interior of
the body, the recess having the shape of an annular trench on the
exterior of the body.
4. The capsule according to claim 1, wherein the central region
further comprises a flat bottom portion axially closing the
recess.
5. The capsule according to claim 2, wherein the weakened area is
formed in the bottom portion.
6. The capsule according to claim 5, wherein the central region
further comprises a tubular outer portion extending axially towards
the interior of the chamber from the peripheral region, the
weakened area being formed at the junction between the bottom
portion and the outer portion.
7. The capsule according to claim 1, wherein the base further
comprises at least one rib for reinforcing the central region.
8. The capsule according to claim 1, wherein the body further
comprises at least one radial rib for stiffening the peripheral
region.
9. The capsule according to claim 1, wherein prior to the rupture
of the weakened area, the base and the outer side wall of the body
are impermeable to air and liquids.
10. The capsule according to claim 2, wherein the central stud has
a frusto conical shape.
11. The capsule according to claim 2, wherein the central stud has
a hemispherical shape.
12. The capsule according to claim 1, wherein the membrane lid
comprises a filter and a membrane.
13. The capsule according to claim 12, wherein the filter is set
back from the front end of the body, towards the chamber, and the
membrane extending along the front end.
14. The capsule according to claim 13, wherein the space between
the filter and the membrane is filled with nitrogen.
15. The capsule according to claim 12, characterized in that
wherein the membrane is peelable.
16. The capsule according to claim 1, wherein the outer side wall
and the base are formed of a first plastic material, and the body
comprises an annular flange extending radially outward towards the
exterior from the outer side wall and defining the front end of the
body, wherein said annular flange being formed of a second plastic
material, different from the first plastic material.
17. The capsule according to claim 1, wherein the weakened area is
adapted so as to rupture from the pressure of the liquid being
pressurized to between 1 and 3 bars.
18. A system comprising a capsule according to claim 1 and an
extraction device having a housing cavity designed for receiving
the capsule, a support, and a conduit for supplying the pressurized
extraction liquid.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims priority to and is the National
Stage of International Application No. PCT/FR2011/051320, filed
Jun. 9, 2011, which also published as WO 2011/154665 on Dec. 15,
2011. Further, this application claims priority to French
Application Nos. 1054651, 1054652, and 1054653, all filed Jun. 11,
2010, and European Application Nos. 10306432.5 and 10306436.6, both
filed Dec. 16, 2010. All of the above applications are incorporated
herein by reference.
BACKGROUND
[0002] The present invention relates to a capsule for extracting a
beverage under pressure, of the type comprising a cup shaped body
and a membrane lid together defining a chamber containing a
substance for the preparation of a beverage, the body comprising a
substantially frusto conical outer side wall and a base formed
integrally as one piece with the outer side wall and closing said
outer side wall at a rear end of the body, the membrane lid closing
the outer side wall at the front end of the body, the capsule being
adapted so as to be disposed in an extraction device in a manner
such that an extraction liquid under pressure enters into the
capsule through the base and exits from it through the membrane
lid.
[0003] FR 2 373 999 discloses such a capsule for use in a beverage
extraction device, in order to produce a beverage such as
coffee.
[0004] There is a risk that such a capsule could collapse upon
closure of the device for extracting a beverage and/or of the
injection of the pressurized liquid.
[0005] In addition, these capsules are particularly expensive to
produce, especially when they are produced in large batches.
[0006] Finally, when such a capsule is used in an extraction device
comprising of a housing cavity for holding the capsule and a
support against which the capsule is applied, the membrane lid is
pressed against the support, thereby preventing a satisfactory flow
of the liquid through the capsule.
[0007] An object of the invention is to provide a capsule that
makes it possible to limit the risk of collapsing while enabling
the extraction of a beverage. Other objects of the invention are to
provide a capsule that may be easily calibrated so as to adjust the
pressure level at which the extraction liquid enters the capsule,
to offer a low cost capsule, and to provide a capsule that is
compatible with many beverage extraction devices.
SUMMARY
[0008] To this end, a first example of the invention relates to a
capsule of the aforementioned type, wherein the base is formed by a
peripheral region defining a rear end of the body, and a central
region returning towards the interior of the capsule in relation to
the rear end while defining a recess on the outside of the body,
the central region comprising at least one weakened area which is
meant to rupture at least partially under the pressure of a
pressurized liquid.
[0009] According to other embodiments, the capsule includes one or
more of the following characteristics, considered alone or in
accordance with any technically feasible combination(s): [0010] the
central region includes a bottom portion and a central stud
protruding from the bottom portion towards the exterior, [0011] the
central region includes an annular rib protruding towards the
interior of the body, the recess having the shape of an annular
trench on the exterior of the body, [0012] the central region
includes a flat bottom portion axially closing the recess, [0013]
the or each weakened region is formed in the bottom portion, [0014]
the base includes at least one rib for reinforcing the central
region, [0015] the body includes at least one radial rib for
stiffening the peripheral region, [0016] prior to the rupture of
the or each weakened area, the base and the outer side wall of the
body are impermeable to air and liquid, [0017] the central stud has
a frusto conical shape, [0018] the central stud has a hemispherical
shape, [0019] the membrane lid includes a filter and a membrane,
[0020] the filter is set back from the front end of the body,
towards the chamber, the membrane extending along the front end,
[0021] the space between the filter and the membrane is filled with
nitrogen, [0022] the membrane is peelable, [0023] the outer side
wall and the base are formed of a first plastic material, and the
body includes an annular flange extending radially outward towards
the exterior from the outer side wall and defining the front end of
the body, said annular flange being formed of a second plastic
material, different from the first plastic material, [0024] the
central region includes a tubular outer portion extending axially
towards the interior of the chamber from the peripheral region, the
or each weakened area being formed at the junction between the
bottom portion and the outer portion, [0025] the or each weakened
area is adapted so as to rupture from the pressure of the liquid
being pressurized to between 1 and 3 bars.
[0026] A second example of the invention relates to a capsule for
extracting a beverage under pressure, of the type comprising of a
cup shaped body and a membrane lid defining a chamber containing a
substance for the preparation of a beverage, the body comprising a
substantially frusto conical sidewall and a base which is formed
integrally as one piece with the side wall and closing the side
wall at one end, the membrane lid closing the other end of the side
wall, the capsule being adapted so as to be disposed in an
extraction device in a manner such that an extraction liquid under
pressure enters into the capsule through the base and exits from it
through the membrane lid, characterized in that the base has a
central region having an annular rib for reinforcement of the base
protruding towards the interior of the body and defining an annular
trench on the exterior of the body.
[0027] According to other embodiments, said capsule includes one or
more of the following characteristics, considered alone or in
accordance with any technically possible combination(s): [0028] the
central region has at least one weakened area which is meant to
rupture at least partially under the pressure of a pressurized
liquid; [0029] the annular rib has a `U` shaped section defined by
two lateral portions connected by a base, with at least one
weakened area being defined in the base; [0030] the annular rib
defines a central stud surrounded by the annular trench, the
central stud comprising at least one weakened area; [0031] the base
includes a rounded peripheral region with its concave side facing
towards the interior of the body; [0032] the base and the side wall
of the body are air tight and water tight; [0033] the body has an
annular flange extending radially outward towards the exterior from
the side wall, the flange defining an end of the capsule that is
opposite to the base; [0034] the membrane lid includes a filter;
[0035] the membrane lid includes a membrane that is impermeable to
air and water, and [0036] the membrane is provided with lines of
weakness for opening of the membrane under the effect of only the
pressure of a pressurized fluid.
[0037] A third example of the invention relates to a capsule for
extracting a beverage under pressure, of the type comprising of a
cup shaped body and an outlet filter defining a chamber containing
a substance for the preparation of a beverage, the capsule
comprising an impermeable outlet membrane, the body comprising a
base defining a rear end of the body and a substantially frusto
conical side wall extending from the base up to an open front end
of the body, the membrane closing the front end, the capsule being
adapted so as to be disposed in an extraction device in a manner
such that an extraction liquid under pressure enters into the
capsule through the base and exits from it through the outlet
membrane, characterized in that the filter and the membrane are
positioned so as to be set back in relation to the front end of the
body.
[0038] According to other embodiments, said capsule includes one or
more of the following characteristics, considered alone or in
accordance with any technically possible combination(s): [0039] the
sidewall includes an internal shoulder that is set back in relation
to the front end of the body, the filter and the membrane being
secured to the internal shoulder; [0040] the outlet membrane is set
back in relation to the front end by a distance that is greater
than 1 mm; [0041] the outlet membrane is impermeable to air and
water; [0042] the outlet membrane is so adapted to tear under the
effect of the sole pressure of a liquid, in a manner so as to allow
the outflow of a liquid passing through the capsule; [0043] the
outlet membrane includes at least one line of weakness; [0044] the
outlet filter is disposed between the chamber and the outlet
membrane; [0045] the filter and the outlet membrane are joined to
each other; [0046] the outlet filter is made of plastic material
that is woven or perforated; and [0047] the membrane is a film made
of a material that is plastic or metal, in particular aluminum.
[0048] A fourth example of the invention relates to a system
comprising of a capsule according to the first, the second or the
third example of the invention, and an extraction device having a
housing meant for holding the capsule, a support and a conduit for
supplying the extraction liquid. [0049] A fifth example of the
invention concerns a system of the type having a device for the
extraction of the beverage and a capsule for the extraction of a
beverage under pressure, the capsule including a cup shaped body
and a membrane lid defining a chamber containing a substance for
the preparation of a beverage, the body including a substantially
frusto conical side wall and a base closing the side wall at one
end, the membrane lid closing the other end of the side wall, the
capsule being adapted so as to be disposed in an extraction device
in a manner such that an extraction liquid under pressure enters
into the capsule through the base and exits from it through the
membrane lid, the beverage extraction device including a member for
receiving a capsule having an inner side face, characterized in
that the capsule is so adapted in order for the base to make
contact against the receiving member along a closed annular contact
line.
[0050] According to other embodiments, the system includes one or
more of the following characteristics, considered alone or in
accordance with any technically possible combination(s): [0051] the
capsule and the receiving member are configured so that the
receiving member exerts a compressive force on the base of the
capsule, the base and/or the side wall of the capsule being adapted
so as to deform under the effect of this force; [0052] the side
wall and/or the base of the body expands radially under the effect
of the force exerted by the receiving member of the extraction
device, in a manner so as to ensure a contact between the side wall
of the body of the capsule and the inner side face of the receiving
member; [0053] the base of the body of the capsule includes a
rounded peripheral region with its concave side facing towards the
interior of the body; [0054] the base of the capsule includes an
annular peripheral region and a central region including an annular
trench, with the line of contact being defined on the peripheral
region; [0055] the line of contact is defined by an outer edge of
the trench at the junction between the trench and the peripheral
region; [0056] the outer edge of the trench is angular; [0057] the
body of the capsule includes an annular flange at the end of the
side wall that is opposite to the base, the annular flange being at
least partly inclined towards the front of the capsule, on the side
opposite to the base; [0058] the flange of the capsule body is
frusto conical widening towards the front; and [0059] the flange of
the capsule body is curved forward towards the front.
[0060] A sixth example of the invention relates to a capsule for
extracting a beverage under pressure, of the type including of a
cup shaped body and a membrane lid defining a chamber containing a
substance for the preparation of a beverage, the body including a
substantially frusto conical sidewall and a base closing the side
wall at a first end, the membrane lid closing the second end of the
side wall, the capsule being adapted so as to be disposed in an
extraction device in a manner such that an extraction liquid under
pressure enters into the capsule through the base and exits from it
through the membrane lid, characterized in that the capsule is so
adapted in order for the base to make contact against a capsule
receiving member of an extraction device, along a closed annular
contact line.
[0061] According to other embodiments, said capsule includes one or
more of the following characteristics, considered alone or in
accordance with any technically possible combination(s): [0062] the
capsule is designed so that, when an axial force is applied to the
base of the body, at least one annular region of the sidewall
and/or of the base expands radially outwards towards the exterior;
[0063] the base of the body of the capsule includes a rounded
peripheral region with its concavity facing towards the interior of
the body; [0064] the base is adapted so as to deform under the
effect of a force exerted axially on the latter; [0065] the base of
the capsule includes an annular peripheral region and a central
region including an annular trench, with the line of contact being
defined on the peripheral region; [0066] the line of contact is
defined by an outer edge of the trench, at the junction between the
trench and the peripheral region; [0067] the outer edge of the
trench is angular; [0068] the body of the capsule includes an
annular flange at the end of the side wall that is opposite to the
base, the annular flange being at least partly inclined towards the
front of the capsule, on the side opposite to the base; [0069] the
flange of the capsule body is frusto conical widening towards the
front; [0070] the flange of the capsule body is curved forward
towards the front; and [0071] the body is made integrally as a
single piece out of plastic material or material derived from
plastic, or metal.
[0072] Finally, the seventh example of the invention relates to an
extraction process using a system according to the fifth example of
the invention, characterized in that the method includes the
following steps: [0073] installation of the capsule in the beverage
extraction device; [0074] application, by the member for receiving
the extraction device, of a force on the base of the capsule;
[0075] deformation of the base and/or the side wall of the capsule
body, a part of the base and/or the side wall making contact along
a closed line with the member for receiving the extraction device;
and [0076] injection of the extraction liquid into the capsule by
means of injection of the liquid from the extraction device.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0077] The invention will be better understood upon reading the
description that will follow given purely by way of example and
with reference being made to the attached drawings, in which:
[0078] FIG. 1 shows a view in perspective of a first variant of a
capsule according to a first embodiment of the invention;
[0079] FIG. 2 is a longitudinal cross sectional view of the capsule
in FIG. 1;
[0080] FIG. 3 is a front view of the capsule in FIG. 1;
[0081] FIGS. 4 and 5 are views of the capsule in FIG. 1, installed
in an extraction device in configurations that are respectively
partially open and closed;
[0082] FIG. 6 is a longitudinal cross sectional view of a second
variant of the capsule according to the first embodiment;
[0083] FIG. 7 is a longitudinal cross sectional view of a third
variant of the capsule according to the first embodiment;
[0084] FIG. 8 is a view of the capsule in FIG. 6, as installed in
an extraction device in a closed configuration;
[0085] FIG. 9 shows a view in perspective of a first variant of a
capsule according to a second embodiment of the invention;
[0086] FIG. 10 is a longitudinal cross sectional view of the
capsule in FIG. 9;
[0087] FIG. 11 is a rear view of the capsule in FIG. 9;
[0088] FIG. 12 is a view of a detail marked XII in FIG. 10;
[0089] FIG. 13 is a view of a detail marked XIII in FIG. 10;
[0090] FIG. 14 is a view of the capsule in FIG. 8, as installed in
a first extraction device in a closed configuration;
[0091] FIG. 15 is a view similar to that in FIG. 14, with the
capsule being installed in a second extraction device in a closed
configuration;
[0092] FIG. 16 is a longitudinal cross sectional view of a second
variant of a capsule according to the second embodiment;
[0093] FIG. 17 is a view of a detail marked XVII in FIG. 16;
[0094] FIG. 18 is a rear view of a third variant of a capsule
according to the second embodiment;
[0095] FIG. 19 is a rear view of a fourth variant of a capsule
according to the second embodiment;
[0096] FIG. 20 is a rear view of a fifth variant of a capsule
according to the second embodiment;
[0097] FIG. 21 is a rear view of a sixth variant of a capsule
according to the second embodiment, and
[0098] FIG. 22 is a rear view of a seventh variant of a capsule
according to the second embodiment.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0099] The capsule 1 according to a first embodiment of the
invention, represented in FIGS. 1 to 3, includes a hollow body 4
and outlet membrane lid 6 together defining an interior chamber 8
containing a substance (not shown) for the preparation of a
beverage.
[0100] The body 4 has a generally cup shaped form and includes a
side wall 10, a base 12 closing a closed rear end 20 of the body 4,
and an annular flange 16 surrounding an open front end 22 of the
body 4.
[0101] The body 4 is made integrally as a single piece. The side
wall 10, the base 12 and the annular flange 16 are formed
integrally as one piece. The body 4 is made of a material that is
impermeable to air and water, for example of a plastic material or
a material derived from plastic, or metal.
[0102] The side wall 10 extends from the base 12 along a
longitudinal axis X to the front end 22 of the body 4.
[0103] The sidewall 10 includes an internal shoulder 14. The
shoulder 14 extends in a radial plane and is oriented towards the
front.
[0104] The side wall 10 is substantially rotationally frusto
conical about the longitudinal axis X. The side wall 10 includes a
rear section 18 that is relatively flexible, extending from the
base 12 and a front portion 19 that is relatively rigid, axially
extending the rear section 18. The front section 19 has an axially
increasing thickness, which is greater than that of the rear
section 18.
[0105] The base 12 has a peripheral region 23, extending radially
inward towards the interior from the side wall 10, and a central
region 24.
[0106] The peripheral region 23 is rounded. It extends inwards
radially towards the interior and axially rearwards towards the
rear, from the side wall 10, and has a concavity facing towards the
interior of the body 4.
[0107] The central region 24 includes an annular rib 26 protruding
axially towards the interior of the body 4 from the peripheral
region 23. The annular rib 26 defines an annular trench 28 open to
the exterior of the body 4 towards the rear. The annular rib 26
defines a hollow central stud 30 protruding axially from the bottom
of the annular trench 28 while defining a recess within the
interior of the body 4.
[0108] The central region 24 has at least one weakened area 32
provided in order to break under the effect of a pressurized fluid.
The weakened areas 32 are provided, for instance, in the form of
areas of reduced thickness of the central region 24, for example,
defined by indentations formed in the central region 24.
[0109] The weakened areas 32 are provided in the walls of the
annular rib 26 and/or on the central stud 30.
[0110] In the illustrated example, the annular rib 26 includes a
tubular outer portion 36 extending axially towards the interior
from the peripheral region 23, a tubular inner portion 34 defining
a lateral face of the central stud 30 and a bottom portion 38
extending radially between the outer portion 36 and the inner
portion 34 while giving the annular rib 26 a cross section
substantially in the shape of a "U".
[0111] As shown in FIG. 2, the weakened areas 32 are provided in
the bottom portion 38 and in the central stud 30 in the form areas
of reduced thickness.
[0112] As a variant, the central region 24 is devoid of weakened
areas 32 in the central stud 30. As a variant or optionally, the
annular rib 26 has weakened areas 32 in the outer portion 36 and/or
in the inner portion 34.
[0113] In another possible variant that differs from the one in
FIG. 2 by the shape of the annular rib 26, the outer portion 36 and
the inner portion 34 converging by giving the annular rib 26 a
cross section substantially in the shape of a V. In this case, the
weakened areas 32 may be provided in the outer portion 36, the
inner portion 34 and/or the central stud 30.
[0114] As shown in FIG. 2, the annular trench 28 has an angular
outer edge 44, preferably beveled at the junction between the
annular rib 26 and the peripheral region 23. The outer edge 44
defines the rear end 20 of the capsule 1. The central stud 30 is
axially set back towards the interior of the body 4 in relation to
the outer edge 44.
[0115] Preferably, the peripheral region 23 has a reinforcing over
thickness along the outer edge 44, so as to reinforce the outer
edge 44. The peripheral region 23 has for example a thickness that
increases from the side wall 10 towards the outer edge 44.
[0116] The internal shoulder 14 is annular and protrudes radially
from the side wall 10 towards the interior of the body 4. It is set
back axially towards the interior of the body 4 in relation to the
front end 22 of the body 4 and the annular flange 16.
[0117] The membrane lid 6 is fixed by its periphery to the inner
shoulder 14 in a manner so that the membrane lid 6 is disposed in
set back position axially towards the interior of the body 4 in
relation to the front end 22 of the body 4. Preferably, the
membrane lid 6 is set back in relation to the front end 22 of the
body by a distance that is greater than 1 mm.
[0118] The membrane lid 6 closes the front end 22 of the body
4.
[0119] The membrane lid 6 includes an outlet filter 49 that is
appropriate for allowing a pressurized fluid to pass while
retaining the substance in the chamber 8. The filter 49 is made of
porous filter paper, woven plastic material or perforated plastic
film.
[0120] The membrane lid 6 further includes a membrane 50 that is
impermeable to air and water lining the filter 49. The membrane 50
has lines of weakness 52, so as to ensure that the membrane 50 is
liable to tear under the sole effect of the pressure of a liquid.
In the example shown in FIGS. 1 and 3, the lines of weakness 52
form a cross. In the alternative, they form circles, arcs, or any
other suitable form to allow optimal tearing of the membrane
50.
[0121] The filter 49 is positioned between the chamber 8 and the
membrane 50. The filter 49 and the membrane 50 are joined to one
another. The filter 49 and the membrane 50 are, for example in the
form of a complex two-layer film.
[0122] The annular flange 16 extends radially outward towards the
exterior from the side wall 10. The annular flange 16 defines the
front end 22 of the body 4. The flange 16 has a free edge region
54. It does not support any inserted impermeable member or raised
impermeable member that is deformable. As shown in FIGS. 1 to 3,
the annular flange 16 is substantially planar.
[0123] The capsule 1 is intended to be placed in an extraction
device 350, shown in FIGS. 4 and 5.
[0124] The extraction device 350 includes a hollow receiving member
352, defining a housing cavity 353 designed for receiving the
capsule 1, and a support 354. It is suited to being maneuvered
between an open configuration in which the receiving member 352 and
the support 354 are mutually set apart from each other so as to
introduce the capsule 1 in the receiving member 352, and a closed
position, shown in FIG. 5, wherein the receiving member 352 and the
support 354 are mutually close together, for injecting the
extraction liquid into the capsule 1. In FIG. 4, the device 350 is
shown in an intermediate configuration in which it is partially
open, however not sufficiently open to allow the introduction of
the capsule 1.
[0125] The housing cavity 353 has an inner side face 360, a housing
cavity base 370 and a conduit 372 for supplying the extraction
liquid opening on the housing cavity base 370, that is
substantially centered and an opening 376 to introduce the capsule
1.
[0126] The inner side face 360 is rotationally symmetrical about a
longitudinal axis Y. In the example shown, it is substantially
frusto conical. When the capsule 1 is placed in the extraction
device 350, the longitudinal axes X of the capsule 1 and Y of the
housing cavity 353 substantially coincide.
[0127] The receiving member 352 has an annular rim 380 surrounding
the opening 376.
[0128] The capsule 1 has an axial length that is sufficient in
order for--in the closed configuration of the extraction device
350--the capsule 1 to be supported by its annular flange 16 against
the support 354 and by its base 12 against the housing cavity base
370 along a closed annular line of contact 122, preferably defined
on the peripheral region 23 along the outer edge 44 of the annular
trench 28.
[0129] The capsule 1 is advantageously adapted to deform
elastically under the effect of the axial compression force F in
order to ensure sufficient contact between the base 12 and the
housing cavity base 370.
[0130] Optionally the capsule 1 is adapted so that, under the
effect of the axial compression force F, at least one annular zone
130 of the base 12 and/or of the side wall 10 of the capsule 1 will
expand radially outward towards the exterior so as to ensure
additional contact 128 with the side face 360 of the housing cavity
353, along a closed annular line of contact.
[0131] The extraction process of the capsule 1 by the extraction
device 350 will now be described.
[0132] The capsule 1 is first placed in the device 350 in an open
configuration, then the device 350 is maneuvered so as to move in
the closed configuration.
[0133] During this movement to the closed configuration, the
capsule 1 is supported by its annular flange 16 against the support
354 then the receiving member 352 axially presses on the base 12 of
the capsule 1, so that the contact 122 is created, and the body 4
is deformed as a whole in a manner such that the contact 128 is
created with the receiving member 352 of the device 350.
[0134] Once the device 350 is in the closed configuration, the
extraction fluid is injected under pressure through the conduit
372. Under the effect of the pressure of the extraction fluid, the
weakened areas 32 of the central region 24 of the base 12 break and
the extraction fluid enters into the capsule 1.
[0135] The fluid pressure in the capsule 1 then increases and,
under the effect of this pressure, the outlet membrane 50 tears.
The fluid then escapes out of the capsule 1 by passing through the
membrane lid 6 and being filtered by the filter 49.
[0136] Thanks to the invention, the base reinforced by an annular
rib allows for the fabrication of the body of the capsule from a
material that is relatively flexible and deformable without the
base collapsing towards the interior of the capsule under the
effect of the fluid pressure. The convexity of the base makes it
possible to define a base that is durable and elastically
deformable, with a large chamber volume that allows for loading a
larger quantity of substance into the capsule. The rib defining an
annular trench in the outer surface enables the improvement of the
injection of the extraction liquid into the capsule. The presence
of an annular flange increases the stability of the capsule on the
support of the extraction device.
[0137] The capsule has a cup shaped body whose base is impermeable
to air and water, the body being closed by a membrane lid that is
impermeable to air and water. The impermeability of the capsule
makes it possible to keep the substance protected and away from air
and moisture. The membrane lid has a membrane that tears under the
effect of fluid under pressure thereby enabling the appropriate
opening of the membrane lid from a predetermined pressure level,
with a delayed effect that is beneficial for obtaining a good
quality extraction. The membrane lid that is set back axially
towards the interior of the body avoids any interference with the
support of the extraction device prior to the opening of the
membrane, and thereby enables the controlled opening of the
capsule. The membrane combined with a filter makes it possible to
ensure the extraction of the substance under satisfactory pressure
conditions with the effective retention of the substance inside the
capsule. The membrane lid provided in the form of a complex film
facilitates the manufacture of the capsule at a low cost.
[0138] The variants of the capsule illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7
differ from that shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 in that the edge region 54
of the annular flange 16 is inclined towards the front of the
capsule 1. As shown in FIG. 6, the annular flange 16 is curved
forward towards the front of the capsule 1. As shown in FIG. 7, the
annular flange 16 is frusto conical flaring towards the front.
[0139] As illustrated in FIGS. 8 and 9, during the closing of the
extraction device 350, under the effect of the pressing force
exerted by the support 354, the annular flange 16 is deformed by
flattening.
[0140] Such a flange 16 allows for ensuring and strengthening the
contact 122 between the base 12 of the capsule 1 and the housing
cavity base 370 at the closing of the device 350, while being
deformable in order to enable the closure of the extraction device
350.
[0141] The capsule 1000 according to a second embodiment of the
invention, shown in FIGS. 9 to 21 includes, as shown in FIGS. 9 and
10, a hollow body 1004 and an outlet membrane lid 1006 together
defining an interior chamber 1008 containing a substance (not
shown) for the preparation of a beverage.
[0142] The body 1004 has a generally cup shaped form and is
impermeable to air and water. It includes an outer side wall 1010,
a base 1012 closing a rear end 1020 of the body 1004, and an
annular flange 1016 surrounding an open front end 1022 of the body
1004.
[0143] The outer side wall 1010 and the base 1012 are formed
integrally as one piece and made of a first plastic material that
is impermeable to air and water. The first plastic material is
chosen for being inert in relation to the substance contained in
the capsule 1000. Preferably, said first material is translucent
and is not colored in the mass, in order to avoid the diffusion of
the color in the substance. Typically, the second plastic material
is polyamide. The polyamide does not interfere with foodstuffs and
effectively constitutes a high performance barrier to air and
water.
[0144] Preferably, the annular flange 1016 is composed of a second
plastic material different from the first plastic material. The
second plastic material is preferably chosen for being a low cost
material. The latter not being in contact with the substance, its
properties vis-a-vis the substance are not taken into account in
the selection of the second material. Typically, the second plastic
material is polyurethane, which is an inexpensive material.
[0145] Preferably, the first and second plastic materials are
compatible materials, that is to say, materials suitable for
polymerization with each other.
[0146] Thus, it is possible to produce capsules 1000 at reduced
cost. These capsules being meant to be produced in very large
quantities, it allows for obtaining substantial savings.
[0147] Preferably, the second material is colored in the mass.
Thus, it is possible to color differently, the annular flanges 1016
of capsules 1000 containing various substances, in a manner so as
to easily distinguish a capsule 1000 containing a first substance
from another capsule 1000 containing a second substance, that is
different from the first.
[0148] The outer side wall 1010 extends from the base 1012 along a
longitudinal axis X until the front end 1022 of the body 1004.
[0149] The outer side wall 1010 is substantially rotationally
frusto conical about the longitudinal axis X. It is rigid. It has
an inner surface 1010a, oriented to face the chamber 1008, and an
outer surface 1010b, opposite to the inner surface 1010a.
[0150] The base 1012 includes a peripheral region 1023 and a
central region 1024.
[0151] The peripheral region 1023 is rigid. It is rounded and
extends radially inward towards the interior and axially towards
the rear from the outer side wall 1010, and has a concavity facing
towards the interior of the body 1004. It thus extends from the
outer side wall 1010 up to the rear end 1020 of the body 1004. The
rear end 1020 is typically a closed line, for example a circle.
[0152] The central region 1024 returns axially towards the interior
of the chamber 1008 from the peripheral region. The central region
1024 thus defines in the base 1012 a recess 1028 on the exterior of
the body 1004.
[0153] The central region 1024 includes a tubular outer portion
1036 extending axially towards the interior of the chamber 1008
from the peripheral region 1023, a bottom portion 1038 extending
radially towards the interior from the inner end of the external
portion 1036 and closing the recess 1028, and a central inner
portion 1034 protruding outward towards the exterior from the
bottom portion 1038.
[0154] The inner portion 1034 defines a hollow center stud 1030 in
the recess 1028. It thus has an annular shape. The outer portion
1036, the bottom portion 1038 and the inner portion 1034 define an
annular rib 1026 in the central region 1024.
[0155] The bottom portion 1038 includes at least one weakened area
1032 provided so as to rupture under the effect of a fluid under
pressure. Preferably, the or each weakened area is provided so as
to rupture at a pressure of the fluid pressurized to between 1 and
3 bars.
[0156] The or each weakened area 1032 is provided, for example, in
the form of areas of reduced thickness, as shown in FIG. 12. As
long as the or each weakened area 1032 is not broken, the base
1012, and by extension the whole body 1004, is impermeable to air
and liquids.
[0157] In the example illustrated in FIG. 11, the weakened area is
defined in the periphery of the bottom portion 1038, at the
junction between the bottom portion 1038 and the outer portion
1036. The area of weakness is in the shape of a circular arc. The
circular arc preferably extends over at least 270.degree..
[0158] The shape of the inner portion 1034 determines the axial
shearing force generated by a liquid under pressure present in the
recess 1028.
[0159] In the embodiment in FIGS. 9 to 15, the inner portion 1034
has a frusto conical shape, which widens from the rear towards the
front of the capsule 1000, and protrudes outward towards the
exterior.
[0160] Alternatively, the inner portion 1034 is extending in a
radial plane. At a determined pressure of the fluid present in the
recess 1028, a planar inner portion 1034 induces a shearing force
higher than the inner portion protruding towards the exterior.
[0161] The body 1004 also includes longitudinal ribs 1042 for
stiffening of the outer side wall 1010 and radial ribs 1044 for
stiffening of the base 1012.
[0162] Each longitudinal rib 1042 extends longitudinally along the
outer side wall 1010, preferably, as shown, along the inner surface
1010a. Thus, the longitudinal ribs are adapted so as to promote the
emulsion between the pressurized fluid and the substance contained
in the chamber 1008. As a variant, each longitudinal rib 1042
extends along the outer surface 1010b.
[0163] Each radial rib 1044 extends radially between the outer
portion 1036 and the peripheral region 1023. The radial ribs 1044
stiffen the base 12 and thus promote the generation of shearing
forces induced by the pressure of the pressurized fluid directly on
the or each area of weakness 1032. In the example shown in FIGS. 10
to 15, each radial rib 1044 extends as an extension of a
longitudinal rib 1042.
[0164] The annular flange 1016 extends radially outward towards the
exterior, from an annular inner rim 1046 until an annular outer rim
1048, from the outer surface 1010b of the outer side wall 1010. It
defines the front end 1022 of the body 1004. It does not support
any inserted impermeable member or raised impermeable member that
is deformable. Preferably it is substantially planar. The outer
annular rim 1048 is free.
[0165] As visible in the detail shown in FIG. 13, the outer surface
1010b of the outer side wall 1010 defines, in the vicinity of the
front end 1022 of the body 1004, an annular recess 1049 defining a
shoulder 1050 and a groove 1052 connecting the annular flange 1016
at the outer side wall 1010.
[0166] The shoulder 1050 is set back towards the rear in relation
to the front end 1022. It extends radially and in parallel to the
front end 1022, between an inner end 1054 and an outer end
1056.
[0167] The groove 1052 is formed in the shoulder 1050 and protrudes
longitudinally towards the rear from the inner end 1054 of the
shoulder 1050.
[0168] The annular flange 1016 includes an annular protuberance
1058 protruding longitudinally from the inner annular rim 1046 in
the groove 1052. The protuberance 1058 cooperates with the groove
1052 so as to strengthen the connection of the annular flange 1016
to the outer side wall 1010.
[0169] Thus, a portion of the outer side wall 1010 extends between
the annular flange 1016 and the chamber 1008, which thereby
prevents the substance from coming into contact with the second
material.
[0170] Returning to FIG. 1, the membrane lid 1006 is attached by
its periphery to the outer side wall 1010 and on the annular flange
1016. The membrane lid 1006 thus closes the front end 1022 of the
body 1004.
[0171] The membrane lid 1006 includes an outlet filter 1060 that is
appropriate for allowing a pressurized fluid to pass while
retaining the substance contained in the chamber 1008. The filter
1060 is made of porous filter paper, woven plastic material or
perforated plastic film. Preferably, the filter 1060 is, as shown,
in set back position from the front end 1022, towards the chamber
1008, and is fixed at its periphery to the inner surface 1010a of
the outer side wall 1010. The filter 1060 is, for example, set back
in relation to the front end 1022 by a distance of between, 1 and
1.5 mm.
[0172] The membrane lid 1006 further includes a membrane 1062 that
is impermeable to air and water lining the filter 1060. Preferably,
the membrane 1062 is fixed, for example welded, to the annular
flange 1016. The membrane 1062 extends along the front end 1022 of
the body 1004. The membrane 1062 enables maintaining the substance
in an inert atmosphere, in a manner so as to avoid oxidation of the
substance.
[0173] The membrane 1062 is peelable, that is to say that, it can
be easily detached from the body 1004. For this purpose, it
includes a tab 1064 extending radially towards the exterior from
the annular flange 1016, in order to allow a user to easily remove
the membrane 1062 before use of the capsule in 1000 in an
extraction device.
[0174] Optionally, the membrane 1062 has lines of weakness (not
shown) such that the membrane 1062 is capable of tearing under the
sole effect of the pressure of a liquid. Thus, in the event where a
user would have forgotten to remove the membrane 1062 before
inserting the capsule 1000 in an extraction device, the extraction
can still be carried out normally, without damage to the extraction
device.
[0175] The filter 1060 is positioned between the chamber 1008 and
the membrane 1062. The space between the filter 1060 and the
membrane 1062 is preferably filled with an inert gas, typically
with nitrogen.
[0176] The capsule 1000 is shown in FIG. 14 inserted in a beverage
extraction device 1100. This device 1100 is similar to the
extraction device 350 described above. Similar elements are
designated by the same reference numerical signs. It should be
noted that the capsule 1000 is adapted in order for the annular
edge 380 to come in contact with the annular flange 1016 when the
extraction device 1100 is in the closed configuration.
[0177] A variant of the extraction device 1100 is shown in FIG. 15.
In this figure, it will be observed that the conduit 372 for
supplying the extraction liquid is radially offset in relation to
the longitudinal axis Y. Thus, the capsule 1000 is also adapted to
be used in beverage extraction devices where the arrival of
pressurized liquid into the receiving housing cavity 353 does not
occur at the center of the housing cavity 353.
[0178] A variant of the capsule 1000 is presented in FIGS. 16 and
17.
[0179] In this variant, the inner portion 1034 has a hemispherical
form with concavity oriented towards the interior of the body 1004.
This shape is adapted so as to allow the rupture of the weakened
area 1032 at higher pressures in the event of the inner portion
1034 having a frusto conical shape.
[0180] The annular flange 1016 is not connected to the outer
surface 1010b of the outer side wall 1010, but to a front annular
face 1066 of the outer side wall 1010. Said annular front face 1066
defines a groove 1068 protruding longitudinally towards the rear
and with which the protuberance 1016 of the annular rim 1058
cooperates in order to strengthen the connection of the annular rim
1016 with the outer side wall 1010.
[0181] The inner surface 1010a of the outer side wall 1010 defines
an annular internal shoulder 1070 extending in a radial plane and
being oriented towards the front. The internal shoulder 1070 is set
back axially towards the interior of the body 1004 in relation to
the front end 1022 of the body 1004 and the annular flange 1016.
The internal shoulder 1070 is adapted to support the membrane lid
1006.
[0182] The internal shoulder 1070 being set back in relation to the
front annular face 1066, the substance is thus not in contact with
the second material forming the annular flange 1016.
[0183] Similarly as in the first embodiment, the membrane lid 1006
is formed by a complex two layer film including the filter 1060 and
the membrane 1062. This complex film is fixed at its periphery to
the inner shoulder 1070 such that the membrane lid 1006 is in set
back position axially towards the interior of the body 1004 with
respect to the front end 1022 of the body 1004. Preferably, the
membrane lid 1006 is set back in relation to the front end 1022 of
the body 1004 by a distance that is greater than 1 mm.
[0184] Other variants of the capsule 1000 are shown in FIGS. 18 to
22.
[0185] In the variant shown in FIG. 18, the bottom portion 1038
includes a plurality of weakened areas 1032, each being formed by
two lines of weakness intersecting in a manner so as to form a
cross. In the example shown, the weakened areas 1032 are four in
number. As a variant, the number of weakened areas 1032 is
different.
[0186] In the variant shown in FIG. 18, the bottom portion 1038
includes a plurality of weakened areas 1032, each formed by a
closed circular line of weakness, each bounding a disk not
including the inner portion 1034. In the example shown, the
weakened areas 1032 are three in number. As a variant, the number
of weakened areas 1032 is different.
[0187] In the variant shown in FIG. 20, the bottom portion 1038
includes two weakened areas 1032, each having the shape of a
serrated semi circle and extending to the periphery of the bottom
portion 1038, along the junction with the outer portion 1036.
[0188] The base 12 further includes two ribs 1080 for strengthening
the central region 1024. Each rib 1080 extends longitudinally
between the tubular portion 1026 and the peripheral rim 1030. Each
rib 1080 is interposed between the two weakened areas 1034. In the
example shown, the ribs 1080 are thus diametrically opposite to one
another.
[0189] These ribs 1080 are designed to concentrate the shearing
forces due to the force exerted by the fluid under pressure on the
base 1012 in the extraction device 1100 on the weakened areas
1034.
[0190] In the variant shown in FIG. 21, the bottom portion 1038
includes three weakened areas 1032, each being formed by a closed
line bounding a crescent with the longer side extending along the
outer portion 1036.
[0191] The base 1012 also includes ribs 1080 for reinforcing the
central region 1024. There are three of these ribs 1080 present
here and each is sandwiched between two weakened areas 1032.
[0192] Finally, in the variant shown in FIG. 22, the bottom portion
1038 includes one single weakened area 1032 constituted by a closed
circular line extending along the outer portion 1036.
[0193] The method for manufacturing the capsule 1000 will be
briefly described, with reference to FIG. 10.
[0194] As an initial step, the first plastic material is cast, for
example injected, in a mould, to form the base 1012 and the outer
side wall 1010. Then, as an second step, the second plastic
material is in turn cast into the mould, in a manner so as to form
the annular flange 1016.
[0195] The first and second plastic materials being compatible
materials, they bind chemically. In particular, diffusion of a part
of the molecules of the first material into the second material
occurs and vice versa. Thus, the formation of a thin layer takes
place in which the two materials are mixed and the two materials
are thus intimately linked with each other.
[0196] Thanks to the invention, the portion of the body of the
capsule in contact with the substance is formed of a material that
is inert in relation to the substance, which thereby makes it
possible to maintain the substance under optimal conditions,
without risk of degradation of the substance by oxidation or by
toxic elements contained in the material in contact with the
substance.
[0197] Furthermore, the fact that the first plastic material is not
colored in the mass ensures reduction of the likelihood of
migration of toxic elements from the capsule to the substance.
[0198] Finally, the fact of using a second material for the annular
flange ensure the reduction of the cost of manufacturing the
capsule and in addition enables, through the coloring of the second
material, the easy identification of the substance contained in the
chamber of the capsule without risk of migration of the pigment
into the substance, the latter not being in contact with the second
material.
[0199] It should be noted that the description given here above is
by no means restrictive, and that the characteristic features of
different variants and different embodiments may be combined with
each other without departing from the scope of the invention.
* * * * *