U.S. patent application number 15/244507 was filed with the patent office on 2016-12-08 for optical readable code support and capsule for preparing a beverage having such code support providing an enhanced readable optical signal.
The applicant listed for this patent is NESTEC S.A.. Invention is credited to Daniel Abegglen, Patrik Benz, Arnaud Gerbaulet, Christian Jarisch, Stefan Kaeser, Carlo Magri, Alexandre Perentes.
Application Number | 20160355328 15/244507 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 47143911 |
Filed Date | 2016-12-08 |
United States Patent
Application |
20160355328 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Magri; Carlo ; et
al. |
December 8, 2016 |
OPTICAL READABLE CODE SUPPORT AND CAPSULE FOR PREPARING A BEVERAGE
HAVING SUCH CODE SUPPORT PROVIDING AN ENHANCED READABLE OPTICAL
SIGNAL
Abstract
An optically readable code support to be associated with or be
part of a capsule intended for delivering a beverage in a beverage
producing device by centrifugation of the capsule, the support
including at least one sequence of binary symbols represented on
the support so that each symbol is sequentially readable by a
reading arrangement of an external reading device while the capsule
is driven in rotation along an axis of rotation. The binary symbols
are essentially formed of light reflective surfaces and light
absorbing surfaces. The code support preferably includes a base
structure extending continuously at least along the sequence of
symbols and discontinuous discrete light-absorbing portions locally
applied onto or formed at the surface of said base structure. The
discontinuous discrete light-absorbing portions form the
light-absorbing surfaces and the base structure forms the
light-reflective surfaces outside the surface areas occupied by the
discrete light-absorbing portions.
Inventors: |
Magri; Carlo; (Collmbey,
CH) ; Gerbaulet; Arnaud; (Oye et Pallet, FR) ;
Perentes; Alexandre; (Lausanne, CH) ; Jarisch;
Christian; (Lutry, CH) ; Kaeser; Stefan;
(Aarau, CH) ; Benz; Patrik; (Morschwil, CH)
; Abegglen; Daniel; (Rances, CH) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
NESTEC S.A. |
Vevey |
|
CH |
|
|
Family ID: |
47143911 |
Appl. No.: |
15/244507 |
Filed: |
August 23, 2016 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
14358361 |
May 15, 2014 |
|
|
|
PCT/EP12/72088 |
Nov 8, 2012 |
|
|
|
15244507 |
|
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47J 31/4492 20130101;
B65D 25/205 20130101; G06K 19/06046 20130101; B29C 45/372 20130101;
B29L 2011/00 20130101; B29K 2023/12 20130101; B65D 85/8043
20130101; B29L 2031/7174 20130101; B29K 2023/06 20130101; G06K
19/06028 20130101; G06K 19/06018 20130101 |
International
Class: |
B65D 85/804 20060101
B65D085/804; G06K 19/06 20060101 G06K019/06 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Nov 15, 2011 |
EP |
11189232.9 |
Claims
1. A capsule intended for delivering a beverage in a beverage
producing device by centrifugation, the capsule comprising: a body,
a flange-like rim and an optically readable code support to be
associated with or be part of a capsule intended for delivering a
beverage in a beverage producing device, the support comprising at
least one sequence of symbols represented on the support so that
each symbol is sequentially readable by a reading arrangement of an
external reading device while the capsule is driven in rotation
along an axis of rotation, wherein the symbols are essentially
formed of light reflective surfaces and light absorbing surfaces
comprising a base structure extending continuously at least along
the sequence of symbols and discontinuous discrete light-absorbing
portions locally applied onto or formed at the surface of the base
structure, the discontinuous discrete light-absorbing portions form
the light-absorbing surfaces and the base structure forms the
light-reflective surfaces outside the surface areas occupied by the
discrete light-absorbing portions, the discrete light-absorbing
portions are arranged to provide a lower light-reflectivity than
the one of the base structure outside the surface areas occupied by
the discrete light-absorbing portions, wherein the code support is
an integral part of at least the rim of the capsule, wherein the
body and rim of the capsule are obtained by forming a flat or
preformed structure comprising the support.
2. A method of delivering a beverage in a beverage producing
device, the method comprising: centrifuging a capsule comprising a
body, a flange-like rim and an optically readable code support
associated with or part of the capsule, the support comprising at
least one sequence of symbols represented on the support so that
each symbol is sequentially readable by a reading arrangement of an
external reading device while the capsule is driven in rotation
along an axis of rotation, wherein the symbols are essentially
formed of light reflective surfaces and light absorbing surfaces
comprising a base structure extending continuously at least along
the sequence of symbols and discontinuous discrete light-absorbing
portions locally applied onto or formed at the surface of the base
structure, the discontinuous discrete light-absorbing portions form
the light-absorbing surfaces and the base structure forms the
light-reflective surfaces outside the surface areas occupied by the
discrete light-absorbing portions, the discrete light-absorbing
portions are arranged to provide a lower light-reflectivity than
the one of the base structure outside the surface areas occupied by
the discrete light-absorbing portions, wherein the code support is
an integral part of at least the rim of the capsule, wherein the
body and rim of the capsule are obtained by forming a flat or
preformed structure comprising the support.
3. The method of claim 2 comprising generating an output signal
comprising information related to a level of reflectivity of a
surface of a lower surface of the rim of the capsule leaning on a
receiving part of a capsule holder, and the beverage producing
device comprises an optical reading arrangement that generates the
output signal.
4. The method of claim 3 comprising performing optical measurements
of the surface of the lower surface of the rim through the capsule
holder, the optical reading arrangement performs the optical
measurements.
5. The method of claim 4 wherein the optical reading arrangement
performs the optical measurements through a lateral wall of the
capsule holder, and the capsule holder is cylindrical or
conical-shaped.
6. The method of claim 3 comprising emitting a source light beam
from the optical reading arrangement and receiving a reflected
light beam on the optical reading arrangement.
7. The method of claim 6 wherein the light beam comprises an
infrared light.
8. The method of claim 6 comprising converting the received light
beam into the output signal, the optical reading arrangement
performs the converting.
9. The method of claim 3 comprising maintaining the optical reading
arrangement in a fixed position relative to a frame of the beverage
producing device during an extraction process in which the capsule
is rotated.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present application is a divisional of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 14/358,361 filed May 15, 2014, which is a
National Stage of International Application No. PCT/EP2012/072088
filed Nov. 8, 2012, which claims priority to European Patent
Application No. 11189232.9 filed Nov. 15, 2011, the entire contents
of which are incorporated herein by reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The invention pertains to the field of the beverage
preparation, in particular using capsules containing an ingredient
for preparing a beverage in a beverage preparation machine. The
present invention relates in particular to optical code supports
adapted to store information related to a capsule, capsules
associated with/or embedding a code support, reading and processing
arrangements for reading and using such information for preparing a
beverage.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] For the purpose of the present description, a "beverage" is
meant to include any human-consumable liquid substance, such as
coffee, tea, hot or cold chocolate, milk, soup, baby food or the
like. A "capsule" is meant to include any pre-portioned beverage
ingredient or combination of ingredients (hereafter called
"ingredient") within an enclosing packaging of any suitable
material such as plastic, aluminum, a recyclable and/or
bio-degradable material and combinations thereof, including a soft
pod or a rigid cartridge containing the ingredient.
[0004] Certain beverage preparation machines use capsules
containing an ingredient to be extracted or to be dissolved and/or
an ingredient that is stored and dosed automatically in the machine
or else is added at the time of preparation of the drink. Certain
beverage machines comprise liquid filling means that include a pump
for liquid, usually water, which pumps the liquid from a source of
water that is cold or indeed heated through heating means, e.g. a
thermoblock or the like. Certain beverage preparation machines are
arranged to prepare beverages by using a centrifugal extraction
process. The principle mainly consists in providing beverage
ingredient in a container of the capsule, feeding liquid in the
capsule and rotating the capsule at elevated speed to ensure
interaction of liquid with powder while creating a gradient of
pressure of liquid in the capsule; such pressure increasing
gradually from the center towards the periphery of the receptacle.
As liquid traverses the coffee bed, extraction of the coffee
compounds takes place and a liquid extract is obtained that flows
out at the periphery of the capsule.
[0005] Typically, it is suitable to offer to the user a range of
capsules of different types containing different ingredients (e.g.,
different coffee blends) with specific taste characteristics, to
prepare a variety of different beverages (e.g., different coffee
types) with a same machine. The characteristics of the beverages
can be varied by varying the content of the capsule (e.g., coffee
weight, different blends, etc.) and by adjusting key machine
parameters such as the supplied liquid volume or temperature, the
rotational speed, the pressure pump. Therefore, there is a need for
identifying the type of capsule inserted in the beverage machine to
enable the adjustment of the brewing parameters to the inserted
type. Moreover, it may also be desirable for capsules to embed
additional information, for example safety information like use-by
date or production data like batch numbers.
[0006] WO2010/026053 relates to a controlled beverage production
device using centrifugal forces. The capsule may comprise a barcode
provided on an outside face of the capsule and which enables a
detection of the type of capsule and/or the nature of ingredients
provided within the capsule in order to apply a predefined
extraction profile for the beverage to be prepared.
[0007] It is known from the art, for example in document
EP1764015A1, to print a local identifying barcode on the circular
crown of a coffee wafer for use in a conventional coffee brewing
machine.
[0008] Co-pending international patent application PCT/EP11/057670
relates to a support adapted to be associated with or be a part of
a capsule for the preparation of a beverage. The support comprises
a section on which at least one sequence of symbols is represented
so that each symbol is sequentially readable, by a reading
arrangement of an external device, while the capsule is driven in
rotation along an axis of rotation, each sequence codes a set of
information related to the capsule. Such invention enables to make
a large volume of coded information available, such as about 100
bits of redundant or non-redundant information, without using
barcode readers having moving parts like a scanning element which
may raise severe concerns in terms of reliability. Another
advantage is also to be able to read the code support by rotating
the capsule while the capsule is in place, in a ready to brew
position in the rotary capsule holder. However, one disadvantage
lies in that those reading conditions remain specifically difficult
for different reasons, such as because the incoming and outgoing
rays of light must traverse the capsule holder when the capsule is
held by the capsule holder, causing the loss of a great part of
energy and/or because the light rays may incur significant angular
deviations due to particular mechanical constraints born by the
rotating assembly of the machine and possibly coming from different
origins (e.g., vibrations, wearing, unbalanced mass distribution,
etc.). Furthermore, it is not suitable to compensate the loss of
reflectivity by improving the performance of the light emitting and
sensing devices of the machine as it would make the beverage
preparation machine too expensive.
[0009] Dutch patent NL1015029 relates to a code structure
comprising a carrier with a barcode disposed thereon in the form of
parallel bars, comprising first bars with a first reflection
coefficient and second bars with a second reflection coefficient
lower than the first reflection coefficient, wherein the first bars
are made of a substantially retro-reflective material and the
second bars are made of mirror-reflective material. This bar code
structure is specially designed to be recognized from a greater
distance by already existing laser scanners, more particularly, by
the use of retro-reflective materials, i.e., material wherein the
peak of the reflection characteristic is measured at 180 degrees.
However, such code structure poses a problem of properly detecting
the reflected signals of the first and second bars due to the
angular distance between the two reflected signals. Such solution
is therefore not adapted to a compact reading system to be
installed in a beverage preparation device.
[0010] Therefore, there is a need for providing an improved code
support which enables to provide a reliable reading in the
particular conditions met in a beverage machine using capsules for
the preparation of the beverage.
[0011] The present invention relates to an improved code support
and capsule comprising said support in particular for providing an
enhancement of the optical signal generated from the code support.
In particular, a problem met with an optical code on a capsule is
that light-reflecting and light-absorbing signals can be difficult
to discriminate.
[0012] Another problem lies in that the support is relatively
complex to integrate to the packaging structure forming the capsule
itself and, in particular, manufacturing packaging constraints
exist, such as the respect of proper material thickness for a
proper forming of the capsule.
[0013] The present invention aims at providing solutions
alleviating at least partially these problems.
[0014] In particular, there is a need for reliably reading
information on a proper code support associated to or part of a
capsule, in particular, a support able to generate an enhanced
signal in particularly difficult reading conditions found in a
beverage machine such as one providing extraction of the beverage
by centrifugation obtained by rotating the capsule about its
center. There is also a need for providing a support that is
adapted for an easy integration to a capsule packaging
material.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0015] The present invention relates to an optically readable code
support to be associated with or be part of a capsule intended for
delivering a beverage in a beverage producing device, such as by
centrifugation of the capsule in the device, the support comprising
at least one sequence of symbols represented on the support so that
each symbol is sequentially readable by a reading arrangement of an
external reading device while the capsule is driven in rotation
along an axis of rotation, wherein the symbols are essentially
formed of light reflective surfaces and light absorbing surfaces
wherein the code support comprises a base structure extending
continuously at least along said sequence of symbols and
discontinuous discrete light-absorbing portions locally applied
onto or formed at the surface of said base structure; wherein the
discontinuous discrete light-absorbing portions form the
light-absorbing surfaces and the base structure forms the
light-reflective surfaces outside the surface areas occupied by the
discrete light-absorbing portions; said discrete light-absorbing
portions are arranged to provide a lower light-reflectivity than
the one of the base structure outside the surface areas occupied by
the discrete light-absorbing portions.
[0016] The discontinuous discrete light-absorbing portions of lower
light-reflective refers to portions of light impact-able surfaces,
providing a lower mean intensity than the mean intensity reflected
by the reflective surfaces formed by the base structure outside
these local areas occupied by said light-absorbing portions. The
mean intensity is determined when these portions or surfaces are
illuminated by an incoming beam of light forming an angle between 0
and 20.degree., at a wavelength between 380 and 780 nm, more
preferably at 830-880 nm, and these portions or surfaces reflect an
outgoing beam of light, in a direction forming an angle comprised
between 0 and 20.degree.. The identification of these surfaces can
be correlated to the upwards and downwards jumps reflecting the
transitions between the reflective and absorbing surfaces after
filtering of the typical signal fluctuations and noises. These
angles are determined relative to the normal to the light
impact-able surfaces. Therefore, it should be noticed that such
light-absorbing portions may still provide a certain level of
reflected intensity, e.g., by specular and/or diffusion effect,
within said defined angle ranges. However, the levels of reflected
intensity between the reflective absorbing surfaces should be
sufficiently distinct so that a discriminable signal is made
possible.
[0017] Surprisingly, the proposed solution enables to improve the
readability of the generated signal. Furthermore, it can form a
structure which can be easily integrated to a capsule, e.g., be
formed into a three-dimensional containment member (e.g., body and
rim).
[0018] Preferably, the optically readable code support has an
annular configuration so that it can be associated to a capsule, be
part of or form the rim of a capsule intended for delivering a
beverage producing device by centrifugation of the capsule in such
device. The optical properties of the support, as defined by the
particular arrangement of the invention, are such that a reading of
the code is made possible while the support is driven in rotation
in the beverage device.
[0019] Preferably, the base structure and the light-absorbing
portions form, respectively, a light-reflective surface and
light-absorbing surface which both reflect, at a maximum of
intensity, within reflection angles which differ one another of
less than 90 degrees, preferably, differ one another of less than
45 degrees. In other words, the reflective and absorbing surfaces
of the code support are not chosen amongst two surfaces having
different reflective properties, i.e., surfaces having
mirror-reflective properties and retro-reflective properties.
[0020] In the context of the present invention, mirror-reflective
properties refer to the reflection characteristics having a local
maximum with a reflection angle equal to the angle normal to the
direction from which the beam was transmitted. "Retro-reflective
surfaces" are usually surfaces which reflect the incident light
beam in a direction opposite to the direction from which the beam
was transmitted, irrespective of the angle of the incident beam
relative to the surface.
[0021] The optical properties of the support, as defined by the
particular arrangement of the invention, are also such that a more
robust reading of the code is made possible by transmitting the
source light beam and reflected light beam within a reduced angle
range enabling to build a reader system within a confined
environment such it is the case in a beverage preparation
device.
[0022] More preferably, the light-reflective surfaces are obtained
by a base structure of continuous arrangement, such as, for
instance, forming an annular part of the flange-like rim of the
capsule. It enables the use a larger choice of reflective packaging
materials forming a sufficient thickness for a sufficiently good
reflectivity. Materials for the base structure of the code support
can form a part of the capsule and are prone to forming or molding
into a cup-shaped body of the capsule, for example. The overlying
arrangement of the light-absorbing surfaces on the base structure,
by way of discrete portions, enables to more distinctively produce
a signal of lower reflectivity compared to the light-reflective
signal, in particular, in an environment where potentially a major
part of the light energy is lost during transfer from the machine
to the capsule. In particular, loss of the light energy may be due
to the requirement for traversing one or more walls of the
device.
[0023] More particularly, the light-reflective base structure
comprises metal arranged in the structure to provide the light
reflective surfaces. In particular, the light-reflective base
structure comprises a monolithic metal support layer and/or a layer
of light-reflective particles preferably metal pigments in a
polymeric matrix. When metal is used as part of the base structure,
it can advantageously serve for providing both an effective
reflective signal and a layer constituting part of the capsule
which may be formed into a complex three dimensional shape and
confer a strengthening and/or protective function, for example, a
gas barrier function. The metal is preferably chosen amongst the
group consisting of: aluminum, silver, iron, tin, gold, copper and
combinations thereof. In a more specific mode, the light-reflective
base structure comprises a monolithic metal support layer coated by
a transparent polymeric primer so as to form the reflective
surfaces. The polymeric primer enables to level the reflecting
surface of metal for an improved reflectivity and provides an
improved bonding surface for the light absorbing portions applied
thereon. The primer provides formability to the metal layer by
reducing the wearing forces during forming. The primer also
protects the metal layer from scratching or other deformation that
could impact on the reflectivity of the surfaces. The transparency
of the primer should be such that the loss of light intensity in
the determined conditions through the layer is negligible. The
primer also avoids a direct food contact with the metal layer. In
an alternative, the base structure comprises an inner polymeric
layer coated by an outer metallic layer (e.g., by vapor
metallization of the polymeric layer). Preferably, the non-metallic
transparent polymeric primer has thickness of less than 5 microns,
most preferably a thickness between 0.1 and 3 microns. The
thickness as defined provides a sufficient protection against
direct food contact with metal and maintains, for enhanced
reflectivity purpose, levels the surface irregularities of the
metal and provides a glossy effect of the metal surface positioned
underneath.
[0024] In a different mode, the light-reflective base structure
comprises a monolithic metal support layer or polymeric support
layer; said layer being coated by a lacquer comprising
light-reflective particles, preferably metal pigments. The lacquer
has a larger thickness than a primer so that it can advantageously
contain reflective pigments. The lacquer has preferably a thickness
higher than 3 microns and less than 10 microns, preferably
comprised between 5 and 8 microns. The lacquer forms a
light-reflective layer that improves the reflectivity of the metal
layer positioned underneath. The reflectivity is dependent on the
ratio of metal pigments to the polymer (in % by wt). The ratio of
metal pigment can also be increased above wt. 10% for a
non-metallic support layer to ensure the sufficient reflective
properties of the base structure.
[0025] Both the primer and lacquer improve the formability of the
metal layer by reducing the wearing forces during forming (e.g.,
deep drawing) thereby enabling to consider the code support as a
formable structure to produce the body of the capsule. The chemical
base of the primer or lacquer is preferably chosen amongst the list
of: polyester, isocyanate, epoxy and combinations thereof. The
application process of the primer or lacquer on the support layer
depends on the thickness of the polymeric layer and the ratio of
pigments in the film since such ratio influences the viscosity of
the polymer. For example, the application of the primer or lacquer
on the metal layer can be made by solvation, for example, by
applying the metal layer with a polymeric containing solvent and
submitting the layer to a temperature above the boiling point of
the solvent to evaporate the solvent and enabling curing of the
primer or lacquer and to fix it onto the metal layer.
[0026] Preferably, the discontinuous light-absorbing portions are
formed by an additional color contrasting layer applied onto the
said base structure. The discontinuous light-absorbing portions are
preferably formed by an ink applied onto the said base structure.
The ink has preferably a thickness between 0.25 and 3 microns.
Several ink layers can be applied to form the light-absorbing
portions, of, for instance, 1 micron-thick, to provide several
printed ink layers in a register. The ink portions reflect a lower
light intensity compared to the reflective surfaces formed by the
base structure. For the light-absorbing portions, the ink
preferably comprises at least 50% by weight of pigments, more
preferably about 60% by weight. The pigments are chosen amongst
those essentially absorbing light at sensibly 830-850 nm of
wavelength. Preferred pigments are black pigments or color
(non-metallic) pigments. As a matter of example, color pigments
used in color pantone codes: 201 C, 468C, 482C, 5743C, 7302C or
8006C, have provided satisfactory results. The application of ink
to form the light-absorbing portions on the base structure can be
obtained by any suitable process such as stamping, roto-engraving,
photo-engraving, chemical treatment or offset printing.
[0027] Preferably, the sequence of symbols comprises between 100
and 200 symbols sequentially readable on the support. More
preferably, it comprises between 140 and 180 symbols, most
preferably 160 symbols. Each symbol forms covers an area having an
arcuate sector, along the circumferential extension direction of
the sequence, lower than 5.degree., more preferably between
1.8.degree. and 3.6.degree., most preferably comprised between 2
and 2.5.degree.. Each individual symbol may take a rectangular,
trapezoidal, circular shape.
[0028] The invention relates to a capsule comprising an optically
readable code support as aforementioned.
[0029] The invention further relates to a capsule intended for
delivering a beverage in a beverage producing device by
centrifugation comprising a body, a flange-like rim and an
optically readable code support as aforementioned, wherein the code
support is an integral part of at least the rim of the capsule,
wherein the body and rim of the capsule are obtained by forming,
such as by deep drawing, a flat or preformed structure comprising
said support.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
[0030] The present invention will be better understood thanks to
the detailed description which follows and the accompanying
drawings, which are given as non-limiting examples of embodiments
of the invention, namely:
[0031] FIG. 1 illustrates the basic principle of the centrifugal
extraction,
[0032] FIG. 2a, 2b illustrate an embodiment of the centrifugal cell
with a capsule holder;
[0033] FIG. 3a, 3b, 3c illustrate an embodiment of a set of
capsules according to the invention;
[0034] FIG. 4 illustrates an embodiment of a code support according
to the invention;
[0035] FIG. 5 illustrates an alternate position of the sequence on
the capsule, in particular, when placed on the underside of the rim
of the capsule, and the capsule fitted into a capsule holder of the
extraction device,
[0036] FIG. 6 illustrates by a schema an optical bench used to
measure symbols on an embodiment of a capsule according to the
invention;
[0037] FIG. 7 show a diagram of the relative diffuse reflectivity
of the symbols of an embodiment of a capsule according to the
invention, as a function of the source and detector angles;
[0038] FIG. 8 show a diagram of the contrast between symbols of an
embodiment of a capsule according to the invention, as a function
of the source and detector angles;
[0039] FIG. 9 is a first example of an optically readable coded
support along circumferential cross-section view in radial
direction R at the rim of the capsule of FIG. 4,
[0040] FIG. 10 is a second example of an optically readable coded
support along circumferential cross-section view in radial
direction R at the rim of the capsule of FIG. 4,
[0041] FIGS. 11 to 13 illustrate graphical representations of the
measure of reflectivity in % respectively for optically readable
code supports according to the invention and for another
comparative code support.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0042] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of a beverage preparation
system 1 as described in WO2010/026053 for which the capsule of the
invention can be used.
[0043] The centrifugal unit 2 comprises a centrifugal cell 3 for
exerting centrifugal forces on the beverage ingredient and liquid
inside the capsule. The cell 3 may comprise a capsule holder and a
capsule received therein. The centrifugal unit is connected to
driving means 5 such as a rotary motor. The centrifugal unit
comprises a collecting part and an outlet 35. A receptacle 48 can
be disposed below the outlet to collect the extracted beverage. The
system further comprises liquid supply means such as a water
reservoir 6 and a fluid circuit 4. Heating means 31 may also be
provided in the reservoir or along the fluid circuit. The liquid
supply means may further comprise a pump 7 connected to the
reservoir. A flow restriction means 19 is provided to create a
restriction to the flow of the centrifuged liquid which leaves the
capsule. The system may further comprise a flow meter such as a
flow-metering turbine 8 for providing a control of the flow rate of
water supplied in the cell 3. The counter 11 can be connected to
the flow-metering turbine 8 to enable an analysis of the generated
impulse data 10. The analyzed data is then transferred to the
processor 12. Accordingly, the exact actual flow rate of the liquid
within the fluid circuit 4 can be calculated in real-time. A user
interface 13 may be provided to allow the user to input information
that is transmitted to the control unit 9. Further characteristics
of the system can be found in WO2010/026053.
[0044] FIGS. 3a, 3b and 3c relate to an embodiment of a set of
capsules 2A, 2B, 2C. The capsules preferably comprise a body 22, a
rim 23 and an upper wall member respectively a lid 24. The lid 24
may be a perforable membrane or an aperture wall. Thereby the lid
24 and the body 22 enclose an enclosure respectively ingredients
compartment 26. As shown in the figures, the lid 24 is preferably
connected onto an inner annular portion R of the rim 23 that is
preferably between 1 to 5 mm.
[0045] The rim is not necessarily horizontal as illustrated. It can
be slightly bent. The rim 23 of the capsules preferably extends
outwardly in a direction essentially perpendicular (as illustrated)
or slightly inclined (if bended as aforementioned) relative to the
axis of rotation Z of the capsule. Thereby, the axis of rotation Z
represents the axis of rotation during centrifugation of the
capsule in the brewing device, and in particular is sensibly
identical to the axis of rotation Z of the capsule holder 32 during
centrifugation of the capsule in the brewing device.
[0046] It should be understood that the shown embodiment is just an
exemplary embodiment and that the capsules in particular the
capsule body 22 can take various different embodiments.
[0047] The body 22 of the respective capsule has a single convex
portion 25a, 25b, 25c of variable depth, respectively, d1, d2, d3.
Thereby, the portion 25a, 25b, 25c may as well be a truncated or a
partially cylindrical portion.
[0048] Hence, the capsules 2A, 2B, 2C preferably comprise different
volumes but, preferably, a same insertion diameter `D`. The capsule
of FIG. 3a shows a small volume capsule 2A whereas the capsule of
FIGS. 3b and 3c show a larger volume capsule 2B respectively 2C.
The insertion diameter `D` is hereby determined at the line of
intersection between the lower surface of the rim 23 and the upper
portion of the body 22. However, it could be another referencing
diameter of the capsule in the device.
[0049] The small volume capsule 2A preferably contains an amount of
extraction ingredient, e.g., ground coffee, smaller than the amount
for the large volume capsules 2B, 2C. Hence, the small capsule 2A
is intended for delivery of a short coffee of between 10 ml and 60
ml with an amount of ground coffee comprised between 4 and 8 grams.
The larger capsules 2B is intended for delivery of a medium-size
coffee, e.g., between 60 and 120 ml and the largest capsule is
intended for delivery of a long-size coffee, e.g., between 120 and
500 ml. Furthermore, the medium-size coffee capsule 2B can contain
an amount of ground coffee comprised between 6 and 15 grams and the
long-size coffee capsule 2C can contain an amount of ground coffee
between 8 and 30 grams.
[0050] In addition, the capsules in the set according to the
invention may contain different blends of roast and ground coffee
or coffees of different origins and/or having different roasting
and/or grinding characteristics.
[0051] The capsule is designed for rotating around the axis Z. This
axis Z crosses perpendicularly the center of the lid which has the
form of a disk. This axis Z exits at the center of the bottom of
the body. This axis Z will help to define the notion of
"circumference" which is a circular path located on the capsule and
having the axis Z as reference axis. This circumference can be on
the lid, e.g. lid or on the body part such as on the flange-like
rim. The lid may be impervious to liquid before insertion in the
device or it may be pervious to liquid by means of small openings
or pores provided in the center and/or periphery of the lid.
[0052] Hereafter, the lower surface of the rim 23 refers to the
section of the rim 23 that is located outside the enclosure formed
by the body and the lid, and is visible when the capsule is
oriented on the side where its body is visible.
[0053] Further characteristics of the capsules or the set capsules
can be found in documents WO 2011/0069830, WO 2010/0066705, or
W02011/0092301.
[0054] An embodiment of the centrifugal cell 3 with a capsule
holder 32 is illustrated by FIGS. 2a and 2b. The capsule holder 32
forms in general a cylindrical or conical wide shaped cavity
provided with an upper opening for inserting the capsule and a
lower bottom closing the receptacle. The opening has a diameter
slightly larger than the one of the body 22 of the capsule. The
outline of the opening fits to the outline of the rim 23 of the
capsule configured to lean on the edge of the opening when the
capsule is inserted. As a consequence, the rim 23 of the capsule
rests at least partially on a receiving part 34 of the capsule
holder 32. The lower bottom is provided with a cylindrical shaft 33
attached perpendicularly to the center of the external face of the
bottom. The capsule holder 32 rotates around the central axis Z of
the shaft 33.
[0055] An optical reading arrangement 100 is also represented in
FIGS. 2a and 2b. The optical reading arrangement 100 is configured
to deliver an output signal comprising information related to a
level of reflectivity of a surface of the lower surface of the rim
23 of a capsule leaning on the receiving part 34 of the capsule
holder 32. The optical reading arrangement is configured to perform
optical measurements of the surface of the lower surface of the rim
23 through the capsule holder 32, more particularly through a
lateral wall of the cylindrical or conical wide shaped capsule
holder 32. Alternatively, the output signal may contain
differential information, for instance differences of reflectivity
over time, or contrast information. The output signal may be
analog, for example a voltage signal varying with the information
measured over the time. The output signal may be digital, for
example a binary signal comprising numerical data of the
information measured over the time.
[0056] In the embodiment of FIGS. 2a and 2b, the reading
arrangement 100 comprises a light emitter 103 for emitting a source
light beam 105a and a light receiver 102 for receiving a reflected
light beam 105b.
[0057] Typically the light emitter 103 is a light-emitting diode or
a laser diode, emitting an infrared light, and more particularly a
light with a wavelength of 850 nm. Typically, the light receiver
103 is a photodiode, adapted to convert a received light beam into
a current or voltage signal.
[0058] The reading arrangement 100 comprises also processing means
106 including a printed circuit board embedding a processor, sensor
signal amplifier, signal filters and circuitry for coupling said
processing means 106 to the light emitter 103, the light receiver
102 and to the control unit 9 of the machine.
[0059] The light emitter 103, the light receiver 102, and the
processing means 106 are maintained in a fixed position by a
support 101, rigidly fixed relatively to the machine frame. The
reading arrangement 100 stays into its position during an
extraction process and is not driven into rotation, contrary to the
capsule holder 32.
[0060] In particular, the light emitter 103 is disposed so as the
source light beam 105a is generally oriented along a line L
crossing at a fixed point F the plane P comprising the receiving
part 34 of the capsule holder 32, said plane P having a normal line
N passing through the point F. The fixed point F determines an
absolute position in space where the source light beams 105a is
intended to hit a reflective surface: the position of the fixed
point F remains unchanged when the capsule holder is rotated. The
reading arrangement may comprise focusing means 104, using for
example holes, lenses and/or prisms, to make the source light beam
105 converging more efficiently to the fixed point F of the lower
surface of the lid of a capsule positioned into the capsule holder
32. In particular, the source light beam 105 may be focused so as
to illuminate a disc centered sensibly on the fixed point F and
having a diameter d.
[0061] The reading arrangement 100 is configured so as the angle OE
between the line L and the normal line N is comprised between
2.degree. and 10.degree., and in particular between 4.degree. and
5.degree. as shown in FIG. 2a. As a consequence, when a reflecting
surface is disposed at the point F, the reflected light beam 105b
is generally oriented along a line L', crossing the fixed point F,
the angle OR between the line L' and the normal line N being
comprised between 2.degree. and 10.degree., and in particular
between 4.degree. and 5.degree. as shown in FIG. 2a. The light
receiver 102 is disposed on the support 101 so as to gather at
least partially the reflected light beam 105b, generally oriented
along the line L'. The focusing means 104 may also be arranged to
make the reflected light beam 105b concentrating more efficiently
to the receiver 102. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 2a, 2b,
the point F, the line L and the line L' are co-planar. In another
embodiment, the point F, the line L and the line L' are not
co-planar: for instance, the plane passing through the point F and
the line F and the plane passing through the point F and the line
L' are positioned at an angle of sensibly 90.degree., eliminating
direct reflection and allowing a more robust reading system with
less noise.
[0062] The capsule holder 32 is adapted to allow the partial
transmission of the source light beam 105a along the line L up to
the point F. For instance, the lateral wall forming the cylindrical
or conical wide shaped cavity of the capsule holder is configured
to be non-opaque to infra-red lights. Said lateral wall can be made
of a plastic based material which is translucent to infra-red
having entry surfaces allowing infra-red light to enter.
[0063] As a consequence, when a capsule is positioned in the
capsule holder 32, the light beam 105a hits the bottom part of the
rim of said capsule at point F, before forming the reflected light
beam 105b. In this embodiment, the reflected light beam 105b passes
through the wall of the capsule holder up to the receiver 102.
[0064] The section of the lower surface of the rim 23 of a capsule
positioned into the capsule holder 32, illuminated at the point F
by the source light beam 105, changes over the time, only when the
capsule holder 34 is driven into rotation. So, a complete
revolution of the capsule holder 32 is required for the source
light beam 105 to illuminate the entire annular section of the
lower surface of the rim.
[0065] The output signal may be computed or generated by measuring
over the time the intensity of the reflected light beam, and
possibly, by comparing its intensity to those of the source light
beam. The output signal may be computed or generated by determining
the variation over the time of the intensity of the reflected light
beam.
[0066] The capsule according to the invention comprises at least
one optically readable code support. The code support can be, in
the present part of the flange-like rim. Symbols are represented on
the optically code support. The symbols are arranged in at least
one sequence, said sequence code a set of information related to
the capsule. Typically, each symbol corresponds to a specific
binary value: a first symbol may represent a binary value of `0`,
whereas a second symbol may represent a binary value of `1`.
[0067] In particular, the set of information of at least one of the
sequences may comprise information for recognizing a type
associated to the capsule, and/or one or a combination of items of
the following list: [0068] information related to parameters for
preparing a beverage with the capsule, such as the optimal
rotational speeds, temperatures of the water entering the capsule,
temperatures of the collector of the beverage outside the capsule,
flow rates of the water entering the capsule, sequence of
operations during the preparation process, etc; [0069] information
for retrieving locally and/or remotely parameters for preparing a
beverage with the capsule, for example an identifier allowing the
recognition of a type for the capsule; [0070] information related
to the manufacturing of the capsule, such a production batch
identifier, a date of production, a recommended date of
consumption, an expiration date, etc; [0071] information for
retrieving locally and/or remotely information related to the
manufacturing of the capsule.
[0072] Each set of information of at least one of the sequences may
comprise redundant information. Hence, error-checking may be
performed by comparison. It also improves by the way the
probability of a successful reading of the sequence, should some
parts of the sequence be unreadable. The set of information of at
least one of the sequences may also comprise information for
detecting errors, and/or for correcting errors in said set of
information. Information for detecting errors may comprise
repetition codes, parity bits, checksums, cyclic redundancy checks,
cryptographic hash function data, etc. Information for correcting
errors may comprise error-correcting codes, forward error
correction codes, and in particular, convolutional codes or block
codes.
[0073] The symbols arranged in sequences are used to represent data
conveying the set of information related to the capsule. For
instance, each sequence may represent an integer number of bits.
Each symbol may encode one or several binary bits. The data may
also be represented by transitions between symbols. The symbols may
be arranged in the sequence using a modulation scheme, for example
a line coding scheme like a Manchester code.
[0074] Each symbol may be printed and/or embossed. The shape of the
symbols may be chosen amongst the following non-exhaustive list:
arch-shaped segments, segments which are individually rectilinear
but extend along at least a part of the section, dots, polygons,
geometric shapes.
[0075] In an embodiment, each sequence of symbols has a same fixed
length, and more particularly has a fixed number of symbols. The
structure and/or pattern of the sequence being known, it may ease
the recognition of each sequence by the reading arrangement.
[0076] In an embodiment, at least one preamble symbol is
represented in the section, so as to allow the determination of a
start and/or a stop position in the section of each sequence. The
preamble symbol is chosen to be identified separately from the
other symbols. It may have a different shape and/or different
physical characteristics compared with the other symbols. Two
adjacent sequences may have a common preamble symbol, representing
the stop of one sequence and the start of the other one.
[0077] In an embodiment, at least one of the sequences comprises
symbols defining a preamble sequence, so as to allow the
determination of a position of the symbols in said sequence code
the set of information related to the capsule. The symbols defining
a preamble may code a known reserved sequence of bits, for example
`10101010`.
[0078] In an embodiment, the preamble symbols and/or the preamble
sequences comprise information for authentifying the set of
information, for example a hash code or a cryptographic
signature.
[0079] The symbols are distributed sensibly on at least 1/8th of
the circumference of the annular support, preferably, on the entire
circumference of the annular support. The code may comprise
successive arch-shaped segments. The symbols may also comprise
successive segments which are individually rectilinear but extend
along at least a part of the circumference.
[0080] The sequence is preferably repeated along the circumference
in order to ensure a reliable reading. The sequence is repeated at
least twice on the circumference. Preferably, the sequence is
repeated three to six times on the circumference. Repetition of the
sequence means that the same sequence is duplicated and the
successive sequences are positioned in series along the
circumference so that upon a 360-degree rotation of the capsule,
the same sequence can be detected or read more than one time.
[0081] Referring to FIG. 4, an embodiment 30a of a code support is
illustrated. The code support 60a occupies a defined width of the
rim 23 of the capsule. The rim 23 of the capsule can comprise
essentially an inner annular portion forming the support 60a and an
outer (non-coded) curled portion. However, it can be that the full
width of the rim is occupied by the support 60a, in particular, if
the lower surface of the rim can be made substantially flat. This
location is particularly advantageous since they offer both a large
area for the symbols to be disposed and is less prone to damages
caused by the processing module and in particular by the pyramidal
plate, and to ingredients projections. As a consequence, the amount
of coded information and the reliability of the readings are both
improved. In this embodiment, the code support 60a comprises 160
symbols, each symbol code 1 bit of information. The symbols being
contiguous, each symbol has a arc-linear length of
2.25.degree..
[0082] Referring to FIG. 5, an embodiment 60b of a code support is
illustrated in planar view. The code support 60b is adapted to be
associated with or be part of a capsule, so as to be driven in
rotation when the capsule is rotated around its axis Z by the
centrifugal unit 2. The receiving section of the capsule is the
lower surface of the rim 23 of the capsule. As illustrated on FIG.
5, the code support may be a ring having a circumferential part on
which the at least one sequence of symbols is represented, so as
the user can position it on the circumference of the capsule before
introducing it into the brewing unit of the beverage machine.
Consequently, a capsule without embedded means for storing
information can be modified by mounting such a support so as to add
such information. When the support is a separate part, it may be
simply added on the capsule without additional fixing means, the
user ensuring that the support is correctly positioned when
entering the brewing unit, or the forms and the dimensions of the
support preventing it from moving relatively to the capsule once
mounted. The code support 60b may also comprise additional fixing
means for rigidly fixing said element to the receiving section of
the capsule, like glue or mechanical means, to help the support
staying fixed relatively to the capsule once mounted. As also
mentioned, the code support 60b may also be a part of the rim
itself such as integrated to the structure of the capsule.
[0083] Each symbol is adapted to be measured by the reading
arrangement 100 when the capsule is positioned into the capsule
holder and when said symbol is aligned with the source light beam
105a at point F. More particularly, each different symbol presents
a level of reflectivity of the source light beam 105a varying with
the value of said symbol. Each symbol has different reflective
and/or absorbing properties of the source light beam 105a.
[0084] Since the reading arrangement 100 is adapted to measure only
the characteristics of the illuminated section of the code support,
the capsule has to be rotated by the driving means until the source
light beam has illuminated all the symbols comprised in the code.
Typically, the speed for reading the code can be comprised between
0.1 and 2000 rpm.
[0085] The reflective characteristics of the code support of the
invention are determined in defined laboratory conditions. In
particular, a first symbol and a second symbol of an embodiment of
a capsule that are suitable to be read reliably by the reading
arrangement 100 have been measured independently using an optical
bench represented on FIG. 6. The goniometric measurements of
diffuse reflection of said symbols on the capsule are shown on
FIGS. 7 (reflected intensity of each symbol) and 8 (contrast
between symbols).
[0086] Hereafter, the first symbol is more reflective than the
second symbol. The set-up for the measurement of the diffuse
reflected relative intensity of each symbol is built so as to able
to modify independently the angle .theta. of a light source and the
angle .theta.' of a light detector. The detector is a bare optical
fiber connected to a power meter glued to a very fine mechanical
tip which is fixed to the motorized detector arm. For all
measurements, the angle I) between the source and detector planes
is equal to (I)=90.degree.. The light source is a laser diode
emitting a light having a wavelength A=830 nm.
[0087] The diagram on FIG. 7 shows a relative diffuse reflectivity
(axis 210) of the symbols of the capsule as a function of the
detector angle .theta.' (axis 200). A reference intensity E.sub.REF
of reflectivity is measured for the first symbol, with the detector
angle set to 0.degree. and the source angle set to 5.degree.. The
relative diffuse reflectivity of each symbol is calculated
relatively to the reference intensity E.sub.REF. The curves 220a,
230a, 240a shows respectively the relative diffuse reflectivity of
the first symbol, at three different source angles
.theta.=0.degree., 5.degree., 10.degree.. The curves 220b, 230b,
240b shows respectively the relative diffuse reflectivity of the
second symbol, at three different source angles .theta.=0.degree.,
5.degree., 10.degree..
[0088] The relative diffuse reflectivity represents at least 60% of
the reference intensity E.sub.REF for any value of the detector
angle .theta.' comprises between 3.degree. and 6.degree. and for
any value of the source angle .theta. comprises between 0.degree.
to 10.degree.. In particular, the relative diffuse reflectivity
represents at least 72% of the reference intensity E.sub.REF for
any value of the detector angle .theta.' comprises between
2.5.degree. and 4.4.degree. and for any value of the source angle
.theta. comprises between 0.degree. to 10.degree..
[0089] The diagram on FIG. 8 shows the optical contrast (axis 310)
between the first and the second symbols as a function of detector
angle .theta.' (axis 300). The optical contrast is defined by the
following mathematical expression (i1-i2)/(i1+i2) where i1, i2
represent respectively the intensity reflected by the first, second
symbol respectively to the detector, in a same given configuration
of the angles .theta. and .theta.'. The curves 320, 330, 340, 350
show respectively, at four different source angles
.theta.=0.degree., 5.degree., 10.degree., 15.degree., said optical
contrast. The lowest contrast value is in any case is greater than
65%, which allows reliable signal processing. In particular, the
optical contrast is greater than 80% for any value of the detector
angle .theta.' comprises between 2.5.degree. and 4.4.degree. and
for any value of the source angle .theta. comprises between
10.degree. to 15.degree.. In particular, the optical contrast is
greater than 75% for any value of the detector angle .theta.'
greater than 6.degree. and for any value of the source angle
.theta. comprises between 0.degree. to 15.degree..
[0090] FIG. 9 illustrates a preferred mode of an optical readable
code support 30 of the invention in cross-sectional circumferential
view of FIG. 4. The code support 30 comprises a readable (external)
side A and a non-readable (internal) side B. At its readable side
A, the support comprises successive light-reflective surfaces
400-403 and light-absorbing surfaces 410-414. The light absorbing
surfaces 410-414 are formed by a base structure 500 which comprises
several superimposed layers whereas the light absorbing surfaces
400-403 are formed by overlying on the base structure in local
circumferential areas, discontinuous discrete portions of light
absorbing material, preferably discrete portions of ink layers 528,
applied onto the base structure. The base structure comprises a
preferably monolithic layer of metal 510, preferably aluminum (or
an alloy of aluminum) onto which is coated a transparent polymeric
primer 515, preferably made of isocyanate or polyester. The
thickness of metal, e.g., aluminum layer, can be a determining
factor for the formability of the support into a containment
structure of the capsule (e.g., body and rim). For formability
reasons, the aluminum layer is preferably comprised between 40 and
250 microns, most preferably between 50 and 150 microns. Within
these ranges, the aluminum thickness may also provide gas barrier
properties for preserving the freshness of the ingredient in the
capsule, in particular, when the capsule further comprises a gas
barrier membrane sealed onto the rim.
[0091] The code support may be formed from a laminate which is
deformed to form the rim 22 and body 23 of the capsule (FIGS.
3a-3b). In such case, the laminate has the composition of the base
structure 500 and is printed with the light-absorbing ink portions
400-403 in the flat configuration before the forming operation of
the capsule (e.g., body, rim). The printing of the ink portions
must thus take into effect the subsequent deformation of the
laminate so that it enables a precise positioning of the coded
surfaces. The type of ink can be a mono-component, bi-component,
PVC based or PVC-free based inks. The black ink is preferred as it
provides a lower reflectivity and higher contrast than colored
inks. However, the black ink portions could be replaced by
equivalent colored ink portions, preferably dark or opaque inks.
The ink may comprise, for instance, 50-80% wt. of color
pigments.
[0092] Preferably, the metal layer is aluminum and has a thickness
comprised between 6 and 250 microns. The primer enables to level
the rugosity of the metal (i.e., aluminum) layer. It also improves
the bonding of the inks on the metal layer, in particular,
aluminum. The primer must remain relatively thin to diminish the
diffusion of the light beam. Preferably, the thickness of the
primer is comprised between 0.1 and 5 microns, most preferably
between 0.1 and 3 microns. The density of the primer is preferably
comprised between 2 and 3 gsm, for example, is of about 2.5
gsm.
[0093] Optionally, the base structure may comprises additional
layers, on the non readable side, preferably a polymer layer such
as polypropylene or polyethylene and an adhesive layer 525 for
bonding the polymer layer 520 onto the metal layer 510 or heat seal
lacquer enabling sealing of lid or membrane on the rim of the
capsule or an internal protective lacquer or varnish. The support
as defined can form an integrated part of the capsule, e.g., of the
capsule flange-like rim and body.
[0094] A preferred base structure according to the mode of FIG. 9,
comprise respectively from the B side to the A side of the support:
a polypropylene layer of 30 microns, an adhesive, an aluminum layer
of 90 microns, a polyester layer of 2 microns and density of 2.5
gsm and black ink portions of 1 micron. In an alternative mode, the
primer layer is replaced by a lacquer of thickness 5 microns,
preferably a density of 5.5 gsm, and containing 5% (wt.) metal
pigments.
[0095] FIG. 10 relates to another mode of the code support 30 of
the invention. In this case, the base structure comprises a lacquer
530 replacing the primer 510 of FIG. 9. The lacquer is a polymeric
layer embedding metallic pigments 535 such as aluminum, silver or
copper pigments or mixtures thereof. The thickness of the lacquer
is somewhat greater than the thickness of the primer 510 of FIG. 9,
preferably, comprised between 3 and 8 microns, most preferably
between 5 and 8 microns. The metallic pigments enable to compensate
for the reduction of the reflectivity of the metal layer by the
increased thickness of the polymer. The lacquer also levels the
rugosity of the metal layer. Preferably, the ratio of metallic
pigments to lacquer is of at least 1% in weight, more preferably is
comprised between 2 and 10% in weight.
[0096] In the present invention, the reference to specific metals
encompasses the possible alloys of such metals in which the metal
represents the major component in weight, for instance, aluminum
encompasses alloys of aluminum.
EXAMPLES
[0097] Capsules comprising an integrated code support have been
tested to evaluate the level of reflectivity of the signal (bit
1/bit 0). The tests were performed in a simplified configuration of
the device of FIGS. 2a and 2b with the capsule holder 32 removed
and replaced by a transparent clamping plate holding the rim of the
capsule and provided with an open air passage for the light beams.
The angle between the sender path and receiver path was of
8.degree., distributed with 4.degree. on each side of the normal
axis N.
Example 1
Detectable Code with Light-Reflective Surfaces by the Base
Structure with Colored Lacquer and Light-Absorbing Surfaces by the
Overlying Ink Portions
[0098] The support comprised a reflective base structure formed of
aluminum of 30 microns coated with aluminum pigmented lacquer of 5
microns and 5.5 gsm. The absorbing surfaces were formed of a layer
of one-micron black PVC ink sold by Siegwerk. The reflective
surfaces were produced by the base structure (bit 1) and the
absorbing surfaces (bit 0) were produced by the black ink portions.
The maximal reflectivity measured for the reflective surfaces (bit
1) was 2.68%. The spread on bit 1 was of 1.32%. The minimum
reflectivity measured for the absorbing surface (bit 0) was 0.73%.
The spread on bit 0 was 0.48%. The results are graphically
illustrated in FIG. 11.
Example 2
Detectable Code with Light-Reflective Surfaces by the Base
Structure with Colorless Primer and Light-Absorbing Surfaces by the
Overlying Ink Portions
[0099] The reflectivity measurement was performed on an empty
capsule comprising an optical reading support comprising a base
structure forming the reflective surfaces and ink portions forming
the absorbing surfaces. For this, the base structure comprised from
the B-side to the A (readable) side respectively: a polypropylene
layer of 30 microns, adhesive, an aluminum layer of 90 microns, a
polyester primer of 2 microns and 2.5 gsm (density). Discontinuous
bit portions of back ink of 1 micron sold by Siegwerk were printed
onto the surface of the primer. The support was formed by deep
drawing into a body of capsule after ink printing. The reflective
surfaces were therefore produced by the base structure (bit 1) and
the absorbing surfaces (bit 0) were produced by the black ink
portions. The reflectivity of the support was measured. The results
are graphically illustrated in FIG. 12. The maximal reflectivity
measured for the reflective surfaces (bit 1) was 5.71%. The spread
on bit 1 was of 1.49%. The minimum reflectivity measured for the
absorbing surface (bit 0) was 0.87%. The spread on bit 0 was
0.47%.
Example 3
Non-Detectable Code with Light-Absorbing Surfaces by the Base
Structure and the Light-Reflective Surfaces by the Overlying Ink
Portions
[0100] The reflectivity measurement was performed on an empty
capsule comprising an optical reading support comprising a base
structure forming the absorbing surfaces and ink portions forming
the reflective surfaces. For this, an aluminum support layer was
covered with a continuous matt black lacquer of 5-micron thickness.
The reflective surfaces were produced by discrete portions of ink
having a thickness of 1 micron containing more 25% by weight of
light-reflective silver pigments. Surprisingly, the signal was not
differentiable enough between bit 1 and bit 0. The results are
graphically illustrated in FIG. 13. The maximal reflectivity
measured for the reflective surfaces (bit 1) was 0.93%. The minimum
reflectivity measured for the reflective surfaces (bit 1) was
0.53%. The minimum reflectivity measured for the absorbing surface
(bit 0) was 0.21%. The spread on bit 0 was 0.23%.
* * * * *