U.S. patent application number 17/740346 was filed with the patent office on 2022-09-15 for capsule, a system for preparing a potable beverage from such a capsule and use of such a capsule in a beverage preparation device.
The applicant listed for this patent is Koninklijke Douwe Egberts B.V.. Invention is credited to Hielke DIJKSTRA, Amin Sjoerd EIJSACKERS, John Henri FLAMAND, Arend Hendrik GROOTHORNTE, Ralf KAMERBEEK, Marc Henrikus Joseph OTTENSCHOT, Erik Pieter van GAASBEEK.
Application Number | 20220289471 17/740346 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000006320689 |
Filed Date | 2022-09-15 |
United States Patent
Application |
20220289471 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
DIJKSTRA; Hielke ; et
al. |
September 15, 2022 |
CAPSULE, A SYSTEM FOR PREPARING A POTABLE BEVERAGE FROM SUCH A
CAPSULE AND USE OF SUCH A CAPSULE IN A BEVERAGE PREPARATION
DEVICE
Abstract
A capsule containing a substance for the preparation of a
potable beverage. The capsule comprises an aluminum capsule body
having a side wall and an outwardly extending flange and a sealing
member at the outwardly extending flange for providing a fluid
sealing contact with an enclosing member of a beverage preparation
device. The beverage preparation device comprises an annular
element having a free contact end which is provided with a
plurality of radially extending open grooves. The capsule comprises
a bearing for the enclosing member of the beverage preparation
device if the capsule is positioned in the enclosing member of the
beverage preparation device and the enclosing member is closed by
means of a closing member of the beverage preparation device, said
bearing enclosing at least a portion of the free contact end of the
annular element.
Inventors: |
DIJKSTRA; Hielke; (Utrecht,
NL) ; GROOTHORNTE; Arend Hendrik; (Utrecht, NL)
; van GAASBEEK; Erik Pieter; (Utrecht, NL) ;
OTTENSCHOT; Marc Henrikus Joseph; (Utrecht, NL) ;
KAMERBEEK; Ralf; (Utrecht, NL) ; EIJSACKERS; Amin
Sjoerd; (Utrecht, NL) ; FLAMAND; John Henri;
(Utrecht, NL) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Koninklijke Douwe Egberts B.V. |
Utrecht |
|
NL |
|
|
Family ID: |
1000006320689 |
Appl. No.: |
17/740346 |
Filed: |
May 9, 2022 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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15811524 |
Nov 13, 2017 |
11352199 |
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17740346 |
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PCT/NL2016/050342 |
May 13, 2016 |
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15811524 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65D 85/8043
20130101 |
International
Class: |
B65D 85/804 20060101
B65D085/804 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
May 15, 2015 |
NL |
PCT/NL2015/050349 |
Claims
1. Capsule containing a substance for the preparation of a potable
beverage by extracting and/or dissolving the substance by means of
supplying a fluid under pressure into the capsule, wherein the
capsule comprises an aluminum capsule body having a central capsule
body axis, said aluminum capsule body being provided with a bottom,
a side wall and an outwardly extending flange, the capsule further
comprising an aluminum cover attached to the outwardly extending
flange, the cover hermetically closing the capsule, wherein the
capsule further comprises a sealing member at the outwardly
extending flange for providing a fluid sealing contact with an
enclosing member of a beverage preparation device if the capsule is
positioned in the enclosing member of the beverage preparation
device and the enclosing member is closed by means of a closing
member of the beverage preparation device, such as an extraction
plate of the beverage preparation device, such that the outwardly
extending flange of the capsule and at least a portion of the
sealing member of the capsule are sealingly engaged between the
enclosing member and the closing member of the beverage preparation
device, wherein the enclosing member of the beverage preparation
device comprises an annular element having a central annular
element axis and a free contact end, characterized in that, the
capsule comprises a bearing for the enclosing member of the
beverage preparation device if the capsule is positioned in the
enclosing member of the beverage preparation device and the
enclosing member is closed by means of a closing member of the
beverage preparation device, said bearing enclosing at least a
portion of the free contact end of the annular element, wherein
prior to use at least a first portion of the bearing lays at a
first height above the cover, wherein, in use, upon closing of the
enclosing member by means of the closing member the at least one
first portion of the bearing is lowered by means of the free
contact end of the annular element being moved towards the closing
element wherein the bearing is at least partly folded over the free
contact end of the annular element so that after closing of the
enclosing member by means of the closing member the at least one
first portion of the bearing lays at a second height above the
cover wherein the first height is larger than the second height and
the second height may be zero, wherein the bearing enclosing at
least a portion of the free contact end of the annular element is
at least partly formed by the sealing member and wherein the
sealing member comprises a projection projecting from the outwardly
extending flange and a plateau between the projection and the side
wall of the aluminum capsule body, wherein the bearing is formed by
the projection, plateau and the side wall of the aluminum capsule
body, wherein the distance between the projection and the side wall
is such that the free contact end of the annular element is
enclosed by the projection and the side wall of the aluminum
capsule body if the capsule is positioned in the enclosing member
of the beverage preparation device and the enclosing member is
closed by means of a closing member of the beverage preparation
device, wherein prior to use at least one first portion of the
plateau lays at a first height above the cover, wherein, in use,
upon closing of the enclosing member by means of the closing member
the at least one first portion of the plateau is lowered by means
of the free contact end of the annular element being moved towards
the closing element so that the plateau is at least partly folded
over the free contact end wherein after closing of the enclosing
member by means of the closing member, the at least one first
portion of the plateau lays at a second height above the cover
wherein the first height is larger than the second height and the
second height may be zero.
2. Capsule according to claim 1, wherein the thickness of the
aluminum capsule body is 20 to 120 micrometer, preferably 100
micrometer.
3. Capsule according to claim 1, wherein the aluminum cover is
arranged to tear open on a closing member of the beverage
preparation device, such as an extraction plate of the beverage
preparation device under the influence of fluid pressure in the
capsule.
4. Capsule according to claim 1, wherein the side wall of the
aluminum capsule body has a free end opposite the bottom, the
outwardly extending flange extending from said free end of the side
wall in a direction at least substantially transverse to the
central capsule body axis, wherein the outwardly extending flange
comprises a curled outer edge, wherein the sealing member is
positioned between the free end of the side wall of the aluminum
capsule body and an inner edge of the curled outer edge of the
outwardly extending flange.
5. Capsule according to claim 1, wherein the height of the sealing
member portion to be contacted first by the free end of the
enclosing member when the enclosing member is closed is at least
about 0.1 mm, more preferably at least 0.2 mm and most preferably
at least 0.8 mm and at most 3 mm, more preferably at most 2 mm and
most preferably at most 1.2 mm.
6. Capsule according to claim 1, wherein the distance between the
projection and the side wall of the aluminum capsule body is such
that the free contact end of the annular element is contacted by
the projection and the side wall of the aluminum capsule body if
the capsule is positioned in the enclosing member of the beverage
preparation device and the enclosing member is closed by means of a
closing member of the beverage preparation device.
7. Capsule according to claim 1, wherein the projection, the side
wall of the aluminum capsule body and the plateau are arranged such
that the free contact end of the annular element is contacted by
the plateau if the capsule is positioned in the enclosing member of
the beverage preparation device and the enclosing member is closed
by means of a closing member of the beverage preparation
device.
8. Capsule according to claim 1, wherein the projection comprises a
projection top, and wherein the projection is configured such that
its projection top exerts a radial force on the free contact end of
the annular element if the capsule is positioned in the enclosing
member of the beverage preparation device and the enclosing member
is closed by means of a closing member of the beverage preparation
device.
9. Capsule according to claim 1, wherein projection comprises
projection side wall which is inclined with regard to the outwardly
extending flange of the aluminum capsule body.
10. Capsule according to claim 1, wherein the plateau is
substantially flat.
11. Capsule according to claim 1, wherein the plateau comprises a
curved portion.
12. Capsule according to claim 1, wherein the plateau is
substantially flat and wherein the plateau is inclined with regard
to the outwardly extending flange of the aluminum capsule body.
13. Capsule according to claim 1, wherein the sealing member is
deformable such that said bearing fluid sealingly encloses at least
a portion of the free contact end of the annular element if, in
use, the maximum fluid pressure in the enclosing member of the
beverage preparation device is in the range of 6-20 bar, preferably
between 12 and 18 bar
14. Capsule according to claim 1, wherein the sealing member is
deformable such that said bearing fluid sealingly encloses at least
a portion of the free contact end of the annular element if, during
brewing, said free contact end of the annular element exerts a
force F2 on the sealing member of the capsule, wherein F2 is in the
range of 500-1500 N preferably in the range of 750-1250 N when the
fluid pressure P2 in said enclosing member outside the capsule is
in the range of 6-20 bar, preferably between 12 and 18 bar.
15. Capsule according to claim 1, wherein the sealing member is
deformable such that said bearing fluid sealingly encloses at least
a portion of the free contact end of the annular element if, in
use, prior to or at the start of brewing, said free contact end of
the annular element exerts a force F1 on the sealing member of the
capsule, wherein the force F1 is in the range of 30-150 N,
preferably 40-150 N and more preferably 50-100 N, when the fluid
pressure P1 in the enclosing member of the beverage preparation
device outside the capsule is in the range of 0.1-4 bar, preferably
0.1-1 bar.
16. Capsule according to claim 1, wherein the sealing member is
deformable such that said bearing fluid sealingly encloses at least
a portion of the free contact end of the annular element if the
free contact end of the annular element that is pressed against the
sealing member has a plurality of radially extending open grooves
uniformly spaced relative to each other in circumferential sense of
said free contact end of the annular element.
17. Capsule according to claim 16, wherein the sealing member is
deformable such that said bearing sealingly encloses at least a
portion of the free contact end of the annular element if the
greatest width of each of said grooves is 0.9-1.1 mm, preferably
0.95 to 1.05 mm, more preferably 0.98 to 1.02 mm wherein a maximal
height of each of said grooves in an axial direction of the
enclosing member of the beverage preparation device is 0.01-0.09
mm, preferably 0.03 to 0.07 mm, more preferably 0.045 to 0.055 mm,
most preferred 0.05 mm and wherein the number of said grooves is 90
to 110, preferably 96.
18. Capsule according to claim 1, wherein the sealing member and
the remainder of the capsule body are made of the same plate
material.
19. System for preparing a potable beverage from a capsule using a
fluid supplied under pressure into the capsule comprising: a
capsule according to claim 1; and a beverage preparation device
comprising an enclosing member for receiving the capsule, wherein
the enclosing member comprises fluid injection means for supplying
fluid under pressure into the capsule, wherein the beverage
preparation device further comprises a closing member, such as an
extraction plate, for closing the enclosing member of the beverage
preparation device, wherein the enclosing member of the beverage
preparation device further comprises an annular element having a
central annular element axis and a free contact end.
20. System according to claim 19, wherein said free contact end of
the annular element is provided with a plurality of radially
extending grooves.
21. System according to claim 19, wherein the aluminum cover is
arranged to tear open on a closing member of the beverage
preparation device, such as an extraction plate of the beverage
preparation device under the influence of fluid pressure in the
capsule.
22. System according to claim 19, wherein the height of the sealing
member portion that is contacted first by the free end of the
enclosing member is at least about 0.1 mm, more preferably at least
0.2 mm and most preferably at least 0.8 mm and at most 3 mm, more
preferably at most 2 mm and most preferably at most 1.2 mm.
23. System according to claim 19, wherein the distance between the
projection and the side wall of the aluminum capsule body is such
that the free contact end of the annular element is contacted by
the projection and the side wall of the aluminum capsule body if
the capsule is positioned in the enclosing member of the beverage
preparation device and the enclosing member is closed by means of a
closing member of the beverage preparation device.
24. System according to claim 19, wherein the projection, the side
wall of the aluminum capsule body and the plateau are arranged such
that the free contact end of the annular element is contacted by
the plateau if the capsule is positioned in the enclosing member of
the beverage preparation device and the enclosing member is closed
by means of a closing member of the beverage preparation
device.
25. System according to claim 19, wherein the projection comprises
a projection top, and wherein the projection is configured such
that its projection top exerts a radial force on the free contact
end of the annular element if the capsule is positioned in the
enclosing member of the beverage preparation device and the
enclosing member is closed by means of a closing member of the
beverage preparation device.
26. System according to claim 19, wherein, in use, the maximum
fluid pressure in the enclosing member of the beverage preparation
device is in the range of 6-20 bar, preferably between 12 and 18
bar.
27. System according to claim 19, wherein the system is arranged
such that, in use, during brewing, a free end of the enclosing
member of the beverage preparation device exerts a force F2 on the
sealing member of the capsule to provide a fluid sealing contact
between the outwardly extending flange of the capsule and the
enclosing member of the beverage preparation device, wherein F2 is
in the range of 500-1500 N preferably in the range of 750-1250 N
when the fluid pressure P2 in the enclosing member of the beverage
preparation device outside the capsule is in the range of 6-20 bar,
preferably between 12 and 18 bar.
28. System according to claim 19, wherein the system is arranged
such that, in use, prior to or at the start of brewing, a free end
of the enclosing member of the beverage preparation device exerts a
force F1 on the sealing member of the capsule to provide a fluid
sealing contact between the outwardly extending flange of the
capsule and the enclosing member of the beverage preparation
device, wherein F1 is in the range of 30-150 N preferably 40-150 N,
more preferably 50-100 N, when the fluid pressure P1 in the
enclosing member of the beverage preparation device outside the
capsule is in the range of 0.1-4 bar, preferably 0.1-1 bar.
29. System according to claim 20, wherein the plurality of radially
extending open grooves are uniformly spaced relative to each other
in tangential direction of the free contact end of the annular
element of the beverage preparation device.
30. System according to claim 29, wherein the greatest width of
each groove is 0.9-1.1 mm, preferably 0.95 to 1.05 mm, more
preferably 0.98 to 1.02 mm wherein a maximal height of each groove
in an axial direction of the enclosing member of the beverage
preparation device is 0.01-0.09 mm, preferably 0.03 to 0.07 mm,
more preferably 0.045 to 0.055 mm, most preferred 0.05 mm and
wherein the number of grooves is 90 to 110, preferably 96 and
wherein optionally the radial width of the free contact end at the
location of the grooves is 0.05-0.9 mm, preferably 0.2-0.7 mm and
more preferably 0.3-0.55 mm.
31. System according to claim 19, wherein during use when the
closing member of the beverage preparation device closes the
enclosing member of the beverage preparation device at least the
free contact end of the enclosing member of the beverage
preparation device can move relative to the closing member of the
beverage preparation device under the effect of the pressure of the
fluid in the enclosing member of the beverage preparation device
towards the closing member of the beverage preparation device for
applying the maximum force between the flange of the capsule and
the free end of the enclosing member of the beverage preparation
device, wherein optionally the enclosing member comprises a first
part and a second part wherein the second part comprises the free
contact end of the enclosing member wherein the second part can
move relative to the first part between a first and second position
wherein the second part can move from the first position towards
the second position in the direction of the closing member under
the influence of fluid pressure in the enclosing member wherein
optionally the force F1 according to claim 28 is reached if the
second part is in the first position with a fluid pressure P1 in
the enclosing member as indicated in claim 28 and wherein
optionally the force F2 according to claim 27 is reached if the
second part is moved towards the second position under the
influence of the fluid pressure P2 in the enclosing member as
indicated in claim 27.
32. System according to claim 19, wherein during use when the
closing member of the beverage preparation device closes the
enclosing member of the beverage preparation device the enclosing
member of the beverage preparation device can move relative to the
closing member of the beverage preparation device under the effect
of the pressure of the fluid in the enclosing member of the
beverage preparation device towards the closing member of the
beverage preparation device for applying the maximum force between
the flange of the capsule and the free end of the enclosing member
of the beverage preparation device.
33. Use of a capsule according to claim 1 in a beverage preparation
device comprising an enclosing member for receiving the capsule,
wherein the enclosing member comprises fluid injection means for
supplying fluid under pressure into the capsule, wherein the
beverage preparation device further comprises a closing member,
such as an extraction plate, for closing the enclosing member of
the beverage preparation device, wherein the enclosing member of
the beverage preparation device further comprises an annular
element having a central annular element axis and a free contact
end.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a divisional of prior application Ser.
No. 15/811,524, filed Nov. 13, 2017 which is a continuation of
International Application Number PCT/NL2016/050342 filed May 13,
2016, which claims the benefit of and priority to International
Application Number PCT/NL2015/050349 filed May 15, 2015, all of
which are hereby incorporated herein by reference in their
entirety.
BACKGROUND AND SUMMARY
[0002] The invention relates to a capsule containing a substance
for the preparation of a potable beverage by extracting and/or
dissolving the substance by means of supplying a fluid under
pressure into the capsule, wherein the capsule comprises an
aluminum capsule body having a central capsule body axis, said
aluminum capsule body being provided with a bottom, a side wall and
an outwardly extending flange, the capsule further comprising an
aluminum cover attached to the outwardly extending flange, the
cover hermetically closing the capsule, wherein the capsule further
comprises a sealing member at the outwardly extending flange for
providing a fluid sealing contact with an enclosing member of a
beverage preparation device if the capsule is positioned in the
enclosing member of the beverage preparation device and the
enclosing member is closed by means of a closing member of the
beverage preparation device, such as an extraction plate of the
beverage preparation device, such that the outwardly extending
flange of the capsule and at least a portion of the sealing member
of the capsule are sealingly engaged between the enclosing member
and the closing member of the beverage preparation device, wherein
the enclosing member of the beverage preparation device comprises
an annular element having a central annular element axis and a free
contact end, said free contact end of the annular element
optionally being provided with a plurality of radially extending
open grooves.
[0003] The invention also relates to a system for preparing a
potable beverage from a capsule using a fluid supplied under
pressure into the capsule comprising: [0004] a beverage preparation
device comprising an enclosing member for receiving the capsule,
wherein the enclosing member comprises fluid injection means for
supplying fluid under pressure into the capsule, wherein the
beverage preparation device further comprises a closing member,
such as an extraction plate, for closing the enclosing member of
the beverage preparation device, wherein the enclosing member of
the beverage preparation device further comprises an annular
element having a central annular element axis and a free contact
end, said free contact end of the annular element optionally being
provided with a plurality of radially extending open grooves;
[0005] a capsule containing a substance for the preparation of a
potable beverage by extracting and/or dissolving the substance by
means of the fluid supplied under pressure into the capsule by the
fluid injection means of the beverage preparation device, wherein
the capsule comprises an aluminum capsule body having a central
capsule body axis, said aluminum capsule body being provided with a
bottom, a side wall and an outwardly extending flange, the capsule
further comprising an aluminum cover attached to the outwardly
extending flange, the cover hermetically closing the capsule,
wherein the capsule further comprises a sealing member at the
outwardly extending flange for providing a fluid sealing contact
with the enclosing member of the beverage preparation device if the
capsule is positioned in the enclosing member of the beverage
preparation device and the enclosing member is closed by means of
the closing member of the beverage preparation device, such that
the outwardly extending flange of the capsule and at least a
portion of the sealing member of the capsule are sealingly engaged
between the enclosing member and the closing member of the beverage
preparation device.
[0006] Furthermore the invention relates to the use of a capsule in
a beverage preparation device comprising an enclosing member for
receiving the capsule, wherein the enclosing member comprises fluid
injection means for supplying fluid under pressure into the
capsule, wherein the beverage preparation device further comprises
a closing member, such as an extraction plate, for closing the
enclosing member of the beverage preparation device, wherein the
enclosing member of the beverage preparation device further
comprises an annular element having a central annular element axis
and a free contact end, said free contact end of the annular
element optionally being provided with a plurality of radially
extending open grooves; wherein the capsule contains a substance
for the preparation of a potable beverage by extracting and/or
dissolving the substance by means of the fluid supplied under
pressure into the capsule by the fluid injection means of the
beverage preparation device, wherein the capsule comprises an
aluminum capsule body having a central capsule body axis, said
aluminum capsule body being provided with a bottom, a side wall and
an outwardly extending flange, the capsule further comprising an
aluminum cover attached to the outwardly extending flange, the
cover hermetically closing the capsule, wherein the capsule further
comprises a sealing member at the outwardly extending flange for
providing a fluid sealing contact with the enclosing member of the
beverage preparation device if the capsule is positioned in the
enclosing member of the beverage preparation device and the
enclosing member is closed by means of the closing member of the
beverage preparation device, such that the outwardly extending
flange of the capsule and at least a portion of the sealing member
of the capsule are sealingly engaged between the enclosing member
and the closing member of the beverage preparation device.
[0007] Such a capsule, system and use are known from EP-B-1 700
548. In the known system the capsule is provided with a sealing
member having the shape of a step, i.e. a sudden increase of the
diameter of the side wall of the capsule, and the enclosing member
of this known system has a sealing surface acting on the sealing
member to provide deflection of the sealing member, the sealing
surface being inclined so that the deflection of the sealing member
is an inwards and downwards deformation of the step. Furthermore in
the known system the enclosing member comprises a capsule holder
and a manually operated or an automatic mechanism for relative
displacement of the enclosing member and the capsule holder. The
manually operated or automatic mechanism applies a force on the
sealing member of the capsule when the enclosing member closes on
the capsule holder. This force should ensure the fluid tight seal
between the enclosing member and the capsule. Because the manually
operated or automatic mechanism is arranged to be moved relative to
the base, the sealing capabilities of the system can depend on the
pressure of the fluid injected by the fluid injection means. If the
pressure of the fluid increases, the force between the sealing
member of the capsule and the free end of the enclosing member
increases too and thereby the force between the sealing member of
the capsule and the free end of the enclosing member increases
also. Such a system is described further on. The sealing member of
the capsule must be arranged such that upon reaching the maximum
fluid pressure in the enclosing member the sealing member should
still provide a fluid sealing contact between the enclosing member
and the capsule. However, the sealing member must also be arranged
such that prior to, or at the start of, brewing when the pressure
of the fluid in the enclosing member outside the capsule is
relatively low, the sealing member also provides a fluid sealing
contact between the enclosing member and the capsule. If at the
start of brewing, there would not exist a fluid sealing contact
between the capsule and the enclosing member, leakage will occur.
However, if leakage occurs there is a real chance that the pressure
in the enclosing member and outside the capsule will not
sufficiently increase for increasing the force on the sealing
member by means of the free end of the enclosing member if the
manually operated or automatic mechanism moves the enclosing member
towards the capsule holder. Only if there is a sufficient initial
sealing, the pressure in the enclosing member will increase whereby
also the force of the free end of the enclosing member acting on
the sealing member of the capsule will increase for providing a
sufficient fluid sealing contact at also the increased fluid
pressure. Moreover, this increased fluid pressure outside the
capsule also provides an increased fluid pressure inside the
capsule which is essential if the capsule is provided with a cover
which is arranged to tear open on relief members of the capsule
holder (also called an extraction plate) of the beverage
preparation device under the influence of fluid pressure in the
capsule.
[0008] It follows from the above that the sealing member is a
member which is very critical in design. It should be able to
provide a fluid sealing contact between the enclosing member and
the capsule at a relatively low fluid pressure if only a relatively
small force is applied on the sealing member by means of the free
end of the enclosing member but it should also provide a fluid
sealing contact at a much higher fluid pressure in the enclosing
member outside the capsule if a higher force is applied by means of
the free end of the enclosing member to the sealing member of the
capsule. In particular when the free contact end of the enclosing
member is provided with radially extending open grooves which act
as air inlet passage once the force between the enclosing member
and the capsule holder is released so that it is easier for a user
to take out the capsule, the sealing member must also be able to
`close` the radially extending open grooves to provide an effective
seal.
[0009] It is an object of the invention to provide an alternative
sealing member which is relatively easy to manufacture, which is
environmentally friendly if the capsule is disposed of after use
and/or which provide a satisfactory sealing even in case of an
enclosing member of which the free contact end is provided with
radially extending open grooves.
[0010] The invention has also as an object to provide an
alternative system for preparing a potable beverage from a capsule
and to provide an alternative use of a capsule in a beverage
preparation device.
[0011] In accordance with the invention there is provided in a
first aspect a capsule containing a substance for the preparation
of a potable beverage by extracting and/or dissolving the substance
by means of supplying a fluid under pressure into the capsule,
wherein the capsule comprises an aluminum capsule body having a
central capsule body axis, said aluminum capsule body being
provided with a bottom, a side wall and an outwardly extending
flange, the capsule further comprising an aluminum cover attached
to the outwardly extending flange, the cover hermetically closing
the capsule, wherein the capsule further comprises a sealing member
at the outwardly extending flange for providing a fluid sealing
contact with an enclosing member of a beverage preparation device
if the capsule is positioned in the enclosing member of the
beverage preparation device and the enclosing member is closed by
means of a closing member of the beverage preparation device, such
as an extraction plate of the beverage preparation device, such
that the outwardly extending flange of the capsule and at least a
portion of the sealing member of the capsule are sealingly engaged
between the enclosing member and the closing member of the beverage
preparation device, wherein the enclosing member of the beverage
preparation device comprises an annular element having a central
annular element axis and a free contact end, said free contact end
of the annular element optionally being provided with a plurality
of radially extending open grooves, characterized in that, the
capsule comprises a bearing for the enclosing member of the
beverage preparation device if the capsule is positioned in the
enclosing member of the beverage preparation device and the
enclosing member is closed by means of a closing member of the
beverage preparation device, said bearing enclosing at least a
portion of the free contact end of the annular element wherein
prior to use at least a first portion of the bearing lays at a
first height above the cover wherein, in use, upon closing of the
enclosing member by means of the closing member the at least one
first portion of the bearing is lowered by means of the free
contact end of the annular element being moved towards the closing
element wherein the bearing is at least partly folded over the free
contact end of the annular element so that after closing of the
enclosing member by means of the closing member the at least one
first portion of the bearing lays at a second height above the
cover wherein the first height is larger than the second height and
the second height may be zero. Since the bearing encloses at least
a portion of the free contact end of the annular element if the
capsule is positioned in the enclosing member of the beverage
preparation device and the enclosing member is closed by means of a
closing member of the beverage preparation device a satisfactory
sealing can be obtained. Such a bearing can be relatively easy to
manufacture. Furthermore the capsule can provide a satisfactory
sealing with the free contact end provided with radially extending
open grooves. Because upon closing of the enclosing member the
bearing is at least partly folded over the free contact end of the
annular element an excellent sealing engagement between capsule and
enclosing member is obtained. In this application the existence of
a fluid sealing contact means that 0-6%, preferably 0-4%, more
preferably 0-2.5% of the total fluid supplied to the enclosing
member for preparing the beverage may leak away due to leakage
between the free contact end and the sealing member of the
capsule.
[0012] The invention is in particular advantageous when, in an
embodiment of a capsule, the capsule is filled with 5-20 grams,
preferably 5-10 grams, more preferably 5-7 grams of an extractable
product, such as roasted and ground coffee.
[0013] In an embodiment of a capsule according to the invention
which is in particular easy to manufacture the outer diameter of
the outwardly extending flange of the capsule is larger than the
diameter of the bottom of the capsule. Preferably, the outer
diameter of the outwardly extending flange is approximately 37.1 mm
and the diameter of the bottom of the capsule is about 23.3 mm.
[0014] The invention is in particular advantageous when in an
embodiment of a capsule the thickness of the aluminum capsule body
is 20 to 120 micrometer, preferably 100 micrometer.
[0015] The invention is in particular advantageous when in an
embodiment of a capsule the thickness of the aluminum cover is 15
to 65 micrometer, preferably 30-45 micrometer and more preferably
39 micrometer.
[0016] In an embodiment of a capsule according to the invention the
wall thickness of the aluminum cover is smaller than the wall
thickness of the aluminum capsule body.
[0017] In a further embodiment of a capsule according to the
invention the aluminum cover is arranged to tear open on a closing
member of the beverage preparation device, such as an extraction
plate of the beverage preparation device under the influence of
fluid pressure in the capsule.
[0018] In an embodiment of a capsule according to the invention
which is in particular easy to manufacture the side wall of the
aluminum capsule body has a free end opposite the bottom, the
outwardly extending flange extending from said free end of the side
wall in a direction at least substantially transverse to the
central capsule body axis. Preferably, the outwardly extending
flange comprises a curled outer edge, which is beneficial in
obtaining for a satisfactory sealing with the free contact end
provided with radially extending open grooves. The radius about the
central capsule body axis of an inner edge of the curled outer edge
of the outwardly extending flange is preferably at least 32 mm, so
that clearance from the annular end surface of the enclosure member
is ensured. It is then preferred that the sealing member is
positioned between the free end of the side wall of the aluminum
capsule body and an inner edge of the curled outer edge of the
outwardly extending flange to obtain a still further satisfactory
sealing.
[0019] To ensure that the curled outer edge does not interfere with
operation of a wide variety of commercially available and future
beverage preparation apparatuses, the outwardly extending flange
has a largest radial cross-sectional dimension of about 1.2
millimeter.
[0020] The invention is in particular beneficial for capsules of
which the inner diameter of the free end of the side wall of the
aluminum capsule body is about 29.5 mm. The distance between the
free end of the side wall of the aluminum capsule body and an
outermost edge of the outwardly extending flange can be about 3.8
millimeter. The preferred height of the aluminum capsule body is
about 28.4 mm.
[0021] In an embodiment of a capsule according to the invention
which after use is easier for a user to take out of a beverage
preparation device the aluminum capsule body is truncated, wherein
preferably the side wall of the aluminum capsule body encloses an
angle with a line transverse to the central capsule body axis of
about 97.5.degree..
[0022] In an advantageous embodiment of a capsule according to the
invention the bottom of the aluminum capsule body has a largest
inner diameter of about 23.3 mm. It is preferred that the bottom of
the aluminum capsule body is truncated, preferably having a bottom
height of about 4.0 mm and that the bottom further has a generally
flat central portion opposite the cover having a diameter of about
8.3 mm.
[0023] In practically all cases a satisfactory seal can be obtained
in an embodiment of a capsule according to the invention in which
the height of the sealing member portion to be contacted first by
the free end of the enclosure member when the enclosure member is
closed is at least about 0.1 mm, more preferably at least 0.2 mm
and most preferably at least 0.8 mm and at most 3 mm, more
preferably at most 2 mm and most preferably at most 1.2 mm.
[0024] In a preferred embodiment of a capsule according to the
invention the capsule comprises an inner surface, and wherein on
the inner surface of at least the side wall of the capsule an inner
coating is provided. In particular when the capsule is manufactured
by deep drawing the inner coating facilitates the deep drawing
process. In case the aluminum cover of the capsule is attached to
the outwardly extending flange by means of a sealing lacquer it is
then in particular advantageous when said inner coating being
composed of the same material as the sealing lacquer. In dependence
of the inner coating used it is preferred that the sealing member
is free from an inner coating in order to prevent crumbling off of
the inner coating from the sealing member.
[0025] In a further embodiment of a capsule according to the
invention the capsule comprises an outer surface, wherein on the
outer surface of the capsule a color lacquer is provided. In order
to facilitate in deep drawing it is preferred to provide on an
outer surface of the color lacquer an outer coating. In dependence
of the color lacquer and outer coating used it is preferred that
the sealing member is free from a color lacquer (and consequently
the outer coating) in order to prevent crumbling off of the color
lacquer/outer coating from the sealing member.
[0026] In an embodiment of a capsule according to the invention
which is east to manufacture the bearing enclosing at least a
portion of the free contact end of the annular element is at least
partly formed by the sealing member.
[0027] Preferably the sealing member of the capsule then comprises
two spaced projections, each projecting from the outwardly
extending flange and a plateau between the two projections so that
the at least one first portion of the plateau defines a
predetermined depth of a space between the two projections, wherein
the radial distance between the two projections is such that the
free contact end of the annular element is enclosed by the two
projections if the capsule is positioned in the enclosing member of
the beverage preparation device and the enclosing member is closed
by means of a closing member of the beverage preparation device and
wherein prior to use the at least one first portion of the plateau
lays at a first height above the cover so that the space has a
first depth wherein, in use, upon closing of the enclosing member
by means of the closing member the at least one first portion of
the plateau is lowered by means of the free contact end of the
annular element being moved towards the closing element so that the
plateau is at least partly folded over the free contact end wherein
after closing of the enclosing member by means of the closing
member, the at least one first portion of the plateau lays at a
second height above the cover wherein the first height is larger
than the second height and the second height may be zero and so
that the space has a second depth relative to the at least one
first portion which is larger than the first depth. Because upon
closing of the enclosing member the plateau is at least partly
folded over the free contact end of the annular element an
excellent sealing engagement between capsule and enclosing member
is obtained. Also the fact that the depth of said space is
increased so that a relative large portion of the annular element
is positioned in the space improves the sealing engagement between
the capsule and the enclosing member.
[0028] It is then also advantageous when the distance between the
two projections is such that the free contact end of the annular
element is contacted by the two projections if the capsule is
positioned in the enclosing member of the beverage preparation
device and the enclosing member is closed by means of a closing
member of the beverage preparation device. The two spaced
projections and the plateau can be arranged such that the free
contact end of the annular element is contacted by the plateau if
the capsule is positioned in the enclosing member of the beverage
preparation device and the enclosing member is closed by means of a
closing member of the beverage preparation device.
[0029] Alternatively the sealing member of the capsule then
comprises a projection projecting from the outwardly extending
flange and a plateau between the projection and the side wall of
the aluminum capsule body, wherein the bearing is formed by the
projection, the plateau and the side wall of the aluminum capsule
body, wherein the distance between the projection and the side wall
is such that the free contact end of the annular element is
enclosed by the projection and the side wall of the aluminum
capsule body if the capsule is positioned in the enclosing member
of the beverage preparation device and the enclosing member is
closed by means of a closing member of the beverage preparation
device wherein prior to use at least one first portion of the
plateau lays at a first height above the cover, wherein, in use,
upon closing of the enclosing member by means of the closing member
the at least one first portion of the plateau is lowered by means
of the free contact end of the annular element being moved towards
the closing element so that the plateau is at least partly folded
over the free contact end wherein after closing of the enclosing
member by means of the closing member, the at least one first
portion of the plateau lays at a second height above the cover
wherein the first height is larger than the second height and the
second height may be zero. Because upon closing of the enclosing
member the plateau is at least partly folded over the free contact
end of the annular element an excellent sealing engagement between
capsule and enclosing member is obtained.
[0030] The distance between the projection and the side wall of the
aluminum capsule body can then be such that the free contact end of
the annular element is contacted by the projection and the side
wall of the aluminum capsule body if the capsule is positioned in
the enclosing member of the beverage preparation device and the
enclosing member is closed by means of a closing member of the
beverage preparation device. Preferably the projection, the side
wall of the aluminum capsule body and the plateau are then arranged
such that the free contact end of the annular element is contacted
by the plateau if the capsule is positioned in the enclosing member
of the beverage preparation device and the enclosing member is
closed by means of a closing member of the beverage preparation
device.
[0031] In a further embodiment of the capsule according to the
invention in which the sealing can be improved further, at least
one projection comprises a projection top, and wherein the at least
one projection is configured such that its projection top exerts a
radial force on the free contact end of the annular element if the
capsule is positioned in the enclosing member of the beverage
preparation device and the enclosing member is closed by means of a
closing member of the beverage preparation device. In particular
when the plateau is substantially flat and is inclined with regard
to the outwardly extending flange of the aluminum capsule body the
exerted force provides an additional sealing effect.
[0032] In a still further embodiment of a capsule according to the
invention at least one projection comprises projection side wall
which is inclined with regard to the outwardly extending flange of
the aluminum capsule body.
[0033] The plateau is substantially flat or can comprise a curved
portion, preferably adapted to the shape of the free contact end of
the annular element.
[0034] In accordance with the invention there is provided in a
second aspect a system for preparing a potable beverage from a
capsule using a fluid supplied under pressure into the capsule
comprising:
[0035] a beverage preparation device comprising an enclosing member
for receiving the capsule, wherein the enclosing member comprises
fluid injection means for supplying fluid under pressure into the
capsule, wherein the beverage preparation device further comprises
a closing member, such as an extraction plate, for closing the
enclosing member of the beverage preparation device, wherein the
enclosing member of the beverage preparation device further
comprises an annular element having a central annular element axis
and a free contact end, said free contact end of the annular
element optionally being provided with a plurality of radially
extending open grooves;
[0036] a capsule containing a substance for the preparation of a
potable beverage by extracting and/or dissolving the substance by
means of the fluid supplied under pressure into the capsule by the
fluid injection means of the beverage preparation device, wherein
the capsule comprises an aluminum capsule body having a central
capsule body axis, said aluminum capsule body being provided with a
bottom, a side wall and an outwardly extending flange, the capsule
further comprising an aluminum cover attached to the outwardly
extending flange, the cover hermetically closing the capsule,
wherein the capsule further comprises a sealing member at the
outwardly extending flange for providing a fluid sealing contact
with the enclosing member of the beverage preparation device if the
capsule is positioned in the enclosing member of the beverage
preparation device and the enclosing member is closed by means of
the closing member of the beverage preparation device, such that
the outwardly extending flange of the capsule and at least a
portion of the sealing member of the capsule are sealingly engaged
between the enclosing member and the closing member of the beverage
preparation device, characterized in that, the capsule comprises a
bearing for the enclosing member of the beverage preparation device
if the capsule is positioned in the enclosing member of the
beverage preparation device and the enclosing member is closed by
means of a closing member of the beverage preparation device, said
bearing enclosing at least a portion of the free contact end of the
annular element. Since the bearing encloses at least a portion of
the free contact end of the annular element if the capsule is
positioned in the enclosing member of the beverage preparation
device and the enclosing member is closed by means of a closing
member of the beverage preparation device a satisfactory sealing
can be obtained. Such a bearing can be relatively easy to
manufacture. Furthermore in such a system the capsule provides a
satisfactory sealing with the free contact end provided with the
radially extending open grooves.
[0037] Regarding the preferred embodiments of the system as
mentioned in the dependent claims which relate to the same features
as the features of the dependent claims of the capsule reference is
made to the above.
[0038] The invention is particularly suitable in a system according
to the invention wherein, in use, the maximum fluid pressure in the
enclosing member of the beverage preparation device is in the range
of 6-20 bar, preferably between 12 and 18 bar. Even at this high
pressures a satisfactory seal between capsule and beverage
preparation device can be obtained.
[0039] Preferably the system is arranged such that, in use, during
brewing, a free end of the enclosing member of the beverage
preparation device exerts a force F2 on the sealing member of the
capsule to provide a fluid sealing contact between the outwardly
extending flange of the capsule and the enclosing member of the
beverage preparation device, wherein F2 is in the range of 500-1500
N preferably in the range of 750-1250 N when the fluid pressure P2
in the enclosing member of the beverage preparation device outside
the capsule is in the range of 6-20 bar, preferably between 12 and
18 bar. In particular the system is arranged such that, in use,
prior to or at the start of brewing, a free end of the enclosing
member of the beverage preparation device exerts a force F1 on the
sealing member of the capsule to provide a fluid sealing contact
between the outwardly extending flange of the capsule and the
enclosing member of the beverage preparation device, wherein F1 is
in the range of 30-150 N preferably in the range of 40-150 N, more
preferably 50-100 N, when the fluid pressure P1 in the enclosing
member of the beverage preparation device outside the capsule is in
the range of 0.1-4 bar, preferably between 0.1-1 bar.
[0040] In an embodiment of a system according to the invention
wherein the plurality of radially extending open grooves are
uniformly spaced relative to each other in tangential direction of
the free contact end of the annular element of the beverage
preparation device so that it is easier for a user to take out the
capsule while a satisfactory seal between capsule and beverage
preparation device can still be provided.
[0041] In an advantageous embodiment of a system according to the
invention the longest tangential width of each groove (top to top,
i.e. equal to the groove to groove pitch) is 0.9-1.1 mm, preferably
0.95 to 1.05 mm, more preferably 0.98 to 1.02 mm, wherein a maximal
height of each groove in an axial direction of the enclosing member
of the beverage preparation device is 0.01-0.09 mm, preferably 0.03
to 0.07 mm, more preferably 0.045 to 0.055 mm, most preferred 0.05
mm and wherein the number of grooves is 90 to 110, preferably 96.
The radial width of the annular end surface at the location of the
grooves may for instance be 0.05-0.9 mm, preferably 0.2-0.7 mm and
more preferably 0.3-0.55 mm.
[0042] The invention is in particular suitable when applied to an
embodiment of a system according to the invention in which during
use when the closing member of the beverage preparation device
closes the enclosing member of the beverage preparation device at
least the free contact end of the enclosing member of the beverage
preparation device can move relative to the closing member of the
beverage preparation device under the effect of the pressure of the
fluid in the enclosing member of the beverage preparation device
towards the closing member of the beverage preparation device for
applying the maximum force between the flange of the capsule and
the free end of the enclosing member of the beverage preparation
device. The enclosing member may comprise a first part and a second
part wherein the second part comprises the free contact end of the
enclosing member wherein the second part can move relative to the
first part between a first and second position. The second part can
move from the first positon towards the second position in the
direction of the closing member under the influence of fluid
pressure in the enclosing member. The force F1 as discussed above
may be reached if the second part is in the first position with a
fluid pressure P1. The force F2 as discussed above may be reached
if the second part is moved towards the second position under the
influence of the fluid pressure P2 in the enclosing member.
[0043] In accordance with the invention there is provided in a
third aspect a use of a capsule according to the invention in a
beverage preparation device comprising an enclosing member for
receiving the capsule, wherein the enclosing member comprises fluid
injection means for supplying fluid under pressure into the
capsule, wherein the beverage preparation device further comprises
a closing member, such as an extraction plate, for closing the
enclosing member of the beverage preparation device, wherein the
enclosing member of the beverage preparation device further
comprises an annular element having a central annular element axis
and a free contact end, said free contact end of the annular
element optionally being provided with a plurality of radial
grooves; wherein the capsule contains a substance for the
preparation of a potable beverage by extracting and/or dissolving
the substance by means of the fluid supplied under pressure into
the capsule by the fluid injection means of the beverage
preparation device, wherein the capsule comprises an aluminum
capsule body having a central capsule body axis, said aluminum
capsule body being provided with a bottom, a side wall and an
outwardly extending flange, the capsule further comprising an
aluminum cover attached to the outwardly extending flange, the
cover hermetically closing the capsule, wherein the capsule further
comprises a sealing member at the outwardly extending flange for
providing a fluid sealing contact with the enclosing member of the
beverage preparation device if the capsule is positioned in the
enclosing member of the beverage preparation device and the
enclosing member is closed by means of the closing member of the
beverage preparation device, such that the outwardly extending
flange of the capsule and at least a portion of the sealing member
of the capsule are sealingly engaged between the enclosing member
and the closing member of the beverage preparation device.
Regarding the advantage of the inventive use and the preferred
embodiments of the use as mentioned in the dependent claims which
relate to the same features as the features of the dependent claims
of the capsule or the dependent claims of the system reference is
made to the above.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0044] The invention will now be further elucidated by means of,
non-limiting, examples referring to the drawing, in which
[0045] FIG. 1 shows a schematic representation of an embodiment of
a system according to the invention;
[0046] FIG. 2 in a perspective view shows an embodiment of a
beverage preparation device of a system according to the invention
showing the free contact end of the enclosing member of the
beverage preparation device with the plurality of radially
extending open grooves;
[0047] FIG. 3A in cross section shows an embodiment of a capsule
according to the invention before use;
[0048] FIG. 3B shows an enlarged detail of a the capsule of FIG. 3A
showing the outwardly extending flange and the sealing member;
[0049] FIG. 3C shows an enlarged detail of the outwardly extending
flange of the capsule in FIGS. 3A and 3B after use;
[0050] FIG. 4A shows a first embodiment of a sealing member at the
outwardly extending flange of a capsule according to the
invention;
[0051] FIG. 4B shows a second embodiment of a sealing member at the
outwardly extending flange of a capsule according to the
invention;
[0052] FIG. 4C shows a third embodiment of a sealing member at the
outwardly extending flange of a capsule according to the
invention;
[0053] FIG. 4D shows a fourth embodiment of a sealing member at the
outwardly extending flange of a capsule according to the invention;
and
[0054] FIG. 4E shows a fifth embodiment of a sealing member at the
outwardly extending flange of a capsule according to the
invention.
[0055] In the Figures and the following description, like reference
numerals refer to like features.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0056] FIG. 1 shows a schematic representation, in cross sectional
view, of an embodiment of a system 1 for preparing a potable
beverage from a capsule using a fluid supplied under pressure into
the capsule. The system 1 comprises a capsule 2, and a beverage
preparation device 4. The device 4 comprises enclosing member 6 for
holding the capsule 2. The device 4 further comprises a closing
member, such as an extraction plate, 8 for supporting the capsule
2.
[0057] In FIG. 1 a gap is drawn between the capsule 2, the
enclosing member 6 and the extraction plate 8 for clarity. It will
be appreciated that, in use, the capsule 2 may lie in contact with
the enclosing member 6 and the extraction plate member 8. Commonly,
the enclosing member 6 has a shape complementary to the shape of
the capsule 2. The apparatus 4 further comprises a fluid injection
means 10 for supplying an amount of a fluid, such as water, under a
pressure in the range of 6-20 bar, preferably between 12 and 18
bar, to the exchangeable capsule 2.
[0058] In the example shown in FIG. 1, the exchangeable capsule 2
comprises an aluminum capsule body 12 having a central capsule body
axis 12A and an aluminum cover 14. In the present context, the
meaning of `aluminum` is understood to also include aluminum alloy.
In this example, the aluminum capsule body 12 comprises a side wall
16, a bottom 18 closing the side wall 16 at a first end, and a
outwardly extending flange 20 extending outwardly of the
circumferential wall 16 at a second end opposite the bottom 18. The
side wall 16, the bottom 18 and the cover 14 enclose an inner space
22 comprising a substance for the preparation of a potable beverage
by extracting and/or dissolving the substance. Preferably the
substance is 5-20 grams, preferably 5-10 grams, more preferably 5-7
grams of roasted and ground coffee for the preparation of a single
beverage. The capsule is initially sealed, i.e. is hermetically
closed prior to use.
[0059] The system 1 of FIG. 1 comprises bottom piercing means 24
for piercing the bottom 18 of the capsule 2 for creating at least
one entrance opening 25 in the bottom 18 for supplying the fluid to
the extractable product through the entrance opening 25.
[0060] The system 1 of FIG. 1 further comprises cover piercing
means 26, here embodied as protrusions of the closing member 8, for
piercing the cover 14 of the capsule 2. The cover piercing means 26
may be arranged to tear the cover 14 once a (fluid) pressure inside
the inner space 22 exceeds a threshold pressure and presses the
cover 14 against the cover piercing means 26 with sufficient force.
The aluminum cover 14 thus is arranged to tear open on the closing
member 8 of the beverage preparation device under the influence of
fluid pressure in the capsule.
[0061] The capsule 2 further comprises a sealing member 28, in
FIGS. 1, 3A and 3B indicated as a general box but more detailed
described with regard to FIGS. 4A-4E, which sealing member 28 is
arranged at the outwardly extending flange 20 for providing a fluid
sealing contact with the enclosing member 6 if the capsule 2 is
positioned in the enclosing member 6 and the enclosing member 6 is
closed by means of the extraction plate 8, such that the outwardly
extending flange 20 of the capsule 2 and at least a portion of the
sealing member 28 are sealingly engaged between the enclosing
member 6 and the extraction plate 8. This means that a fluid
sealing contact between the sealing member and the free contact end
is established.
[0062] As shown in FIG. 2 the enclosing member 6 of the beverage
preparation device comprises an annular element 41 having a central
annular element axis 41A and a free contact end 30. The free
contact end 30 of the annular element 41 is provided with a
plurality of radially extending open grooves 40. The plurality of
radially extending open grooves 40 are uniformly spaced relative to
each other in tangential direction of the free contact end 30 of
the annular element 41. The longest tangential width of each groove
40 is 0.9-1.1 mm, preferably 0.95 to 1.05 mm, more preferably 0.98
to 1.02 mm, wherein a maximal height of each groove 40 in an axial
direction of the enclosing member 6 is 0.01-0.09 mm, preferably
0.03 to 0.07 mm, more preferably 0.045 to 0.055 mm, and most
preferred 0.05 mm. The number of grooves 40 lies in the range of 90
to 110, preferably 96. Usually, the radial width of the free end at
the location of the grooves is 0.05-0.9 mm, more specifically
0.2-0.7 mm, more specifically 0.3-0.55 mm.
[0063] An embodiment of a capsule according to the invention is
shown more detailed in FIGS. 3A and 3B. In the shown embodiment the
outer diameter ODF of the outwardly extending flange 20 is larger
than the diameter DB of the bottom 18 of the capsule 2. In the
shown embodiment the outer diameter ODF of the outwardly extending
flange 20 is approximately 37.1 mm and the diameter DB of the
bottom 18 is about 23.3 mm. The thickness of the aluminum capsule
body 12 is 100 micrometer, but in other embodiments the thickness
can be 20 to 120 micrometer.
[0064] In the shown embodiment, the wall thickness of the aluminum
cover 14 is 39 micrometer. The wall thickness of the aluminum cover
14 is preferably smaller than the thickness of the aluminum capsule
body 12.
[0065] The side wall 16 of the aluminum capsule body 12 has a free
end 42 opposite the bottom 18. The inner diameter IDF of the free
end 42 of the side wall 16 of the aluminum capsule body 12 is about
29.5 mm. The outwardly extending flange 20 extends from that free
end 42 in a direction at least substantially transverse to the
central capsule body axis 12A. The outwardly extending flange 20
comprises a curled outer edge 43 which is beneficial for obtaining
a seal between the capsule and the enclosing member. In the shown
embodiment the curled outer edge 43 of the outwardly extending
flange 20 has a largest dimension of about 1.2 millimeter. The
distance DIF between the free end 42 of the side wall 16 of the
aluminum capsule body 12 and an inner edge 43A of the curled outer
edge 43 is about 2.7 mm, while the distance DOF between the free
end 42 of the side wall 16 of the aluminum capsule body 12 and an
outermost edge 43B of the outwardly extending flange 20 is about
3.8 millimeter. The radius about the central capsule body axis of
the inner edge 43A of the curled outer edge 43 is preferably at
least 32 mm.
[0066] As shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B the sealing member 28 is
positioned between the free end of the side wall 16 of the aluminum
capsule body 12 and the inner edge 43A of the curled outer edge 42
of the outwardly extending flange. The sealing member 28 is
indicated as a general box, but will be described in more detail
below. Irrespective of the embodiment of the sealing member 28 the
height of the sealing member portion to be contacted first by the
free end of the enclosure member when the enclosure member is
closed is at least about 0.1 mm, more preferably at least 0.2 mm
and most preferably at least 0.8 mm and at most 3 mm, more
preferably at most 2 mm and most preferably at most 1.2 mm for
providing a correct seal.
[0067] As can be seen from FIG. 3A the aluminum capsule body 12 is
truncated. In the embodiment shown, the side wall 16 of the
aluminum capsule body 12 encloses an angle A with a line transverse
to the central capsule body axis 12A of about 97.5.degree.. The
bottom 18 of the aluminum capsule body 12 has an largest inner
diameter DB of about 23.3 mm. The bottom 18 of the aluminum capsule
body 12 is also truncated, and in the shown embodiment has a bottom
height BH of about 4.0 mm. The bottom 18 further has an a generally
flat central portion 18A opposite the cover 14, which central
portion 18A has a diameter DEE of about 8.3 mm and in which central
portion 18A the entrance opening(s) 25 may be made. The entrance
openings may also be made in the truncated portion between the
central portion 18A and the side wall 16. The total height TH of
the aluminum capsule body 12 of the capsule is about 28.4 mm.
[0068] The system 1 shown in FIG. 1 is operated as follows for
preparing a cup of potable beverage, in the present example coffee,
the substance in the capsule being roasted and ground coffee.
[0069] The capsule 2 is placed in the enclosing member 6. The
extraction plate 8 is brought into contact with the capsule 2. The
bottom piercing means 24 pierce the bottom 18 of the capsule 2 for
creating the entrance openings 25. The fluid, here hot water under
pressure, is supplied to the extractable product in the inner space
22 through the entrance openings 25. The water will wet the coffee
grounds and extract the desired substances to form the coffee
beverage.
[0070] During supplying the water under pressure to the inner space
22, the pressure inside the capsule 2 will rise. The rise in
pressure will cause the cover 14 to deform and be pressed against
the lid piercing means 26 of the extraction plate. Once the
pressure reaches a certain level, the tear strength of the cover 14
will be surpassed and the cover 14 will rupture against the lid
piercing means 26, creating exit openings. The prepared coffee will
drain from the capsule 2 through the exit openings and outlets 32
(see FIG. 1) of the extraction plate 8, and may be supplied to a
container such as a cup (not shown).
[0071] The system 1 is arranged such that prior to or at the start
of brewing, the free end 30 of the enclosing member 6 exerts a
force F1 on the sealing member 28 of the capsule 2 to provide a
fluid sealing contact between the outwardly extending flange 20 of
the capsule 2 and the enclosing member 6 of the beverage
preparation device, wherein F1 is in the range of 30-150 N
preferably 40-150 N, more preferably 50-100 N, when the fluid
pressure P1 in the enclosing member of the beverage preparation
device outside the capsule is in the range of 0.1-4 bar, preferably
0.1-1 bar. During brewing, the free end 30 of the enclosing member
6 exerts a force F2 on the sealing member 28 of the capsule 2 to
provide a fluid sealing contact between the outwardly extending
flange 20 of the capsule 2 and the enclosing member 6, wherein the
force F2 is in the range of 500-1500 N, preferably in the range of
750-1250 N, when the fluid pressure P2 in the enclosing member 6 of
the beverage preparation device outside the capsule 2 is in the
range of 6-20 bar, preferably between 12 and 18 bar. In the shown
embodiment the free contact end of enclosing member 6 can move
relative to the extracting plate 8 under the effect of the pressure
of the fluid in the enclosing member 6 device towards the
extraction plate 8 for applying the maximum force F2 between the
outwardly extending flange 20 and the free end 30 of the enclosing
member 6. This movement can take place during use, i.e. in
particular at the start of brewing and during brewing. The
enclosing member 6 has a first part 6A and a second part 6B wherein
the second part comprises the free contact end 30. The second part
6B can move relative to the first part 6A between a first and
second position. The second part 6B can move from the first positon
towards the second position in the direction of the closing member
8 under the influence of fluid pressure in the enclosing member 6.
The force F1 as discussed above may be reached if the second part
6B is in the first position with a fluid pressure P1. The force F2
as discussed above may be reached if the second part 6B is moved
towards the second position under the influence of the fluid
pressure P2 in the enclosing member 6.
[0072] As a result of the force applied the sealing member 28 of
the capsule according to the invention undergoes a plastic
deformation and closely conforms to the grooves 40 of the free
contact end 30 and thus provides a fluid sealing contact between
the enclosing member 6 and the capsule 3 at a relatively low fluid
pressure during start up of brewing but also provides a fluid
sealing contact at the much higher fluid pressure in the enclosing
member outside the capsule during brewing. This close conformation
to the grooves 40 of the enclosing member is indicated in FIG. 3C
which shows the capsule 2 of the invention after use, and which
clearly indicates that the outwardly extending flange 20 comprises
deformations 40' which conform to the grooves 40 of the enclosing
member.
[0073] Now exemplary embodiments of a sealing member 28 at the
outwardly extending flange 20 of the capsule 2 according to the
invention will be described in more detail with regard to FIGS. 4A
to 4E.
[0074] FIG. 4A shows a first embodiment of a sealing member 28
forming a bearing at the outwardly extending flange 20 of a capsule
2 according to the invention. The sealing member 28 comprises two
spaced projections 50 and 51, each projecting from the outwardly
extending flange 20. A plateau 52 is present between the two
projections 50 and 51. The distance between the two projections 50
and 51 is such that the free contact end of the annular element 6
is enclosed by the two projections 50 and 51 if the capsule is
positioned in the enclosing member of the beverage preparation
device and the enclosing member is closed by means of a closing
member of the beverage preparation device. In the embodiment shown
in FIG. 4A the plateau is positioned at a distance above the
portion of the outwardly extending flange 20 between the sealing
member 28 and the curled edge 43 and is substantially flat. The
distance between the two projections 50 and 51 (e.g. 0.9-1.25 mm)
is further such that the free contact end of the annular element is
contacted by the two projections 50 and 52 if the capsule is
positioned in the enclosing member of the beverage preparation
device and the enclosing member is closed by means of a closing
member of the beverage preparation device. Further, the two spaced
projections 50, 51 and the plateau 52 are arranged such that the
free contact end of the annular element is contacted by the plateau
if the capsule is positioned in the enclosing member of the
beverage preparation device and the enclosing member is closed by
means of a closing member of the beverage preparation device. At
least one first portion of the plateau (in this example the whole
plateau) defines a predetermined depth of a space between the two
projections. As can be seen in FIG. 4A each projection 50, 51
comprises a projection side wall which is inclined with regard to
the outwardly extending flange 20 of the aluminum capsule body. It
thus holds that the sealing member comprises two spaced projections
50, 51, each projecting from the outwardly extending flange 20 and
a plateau 52 between the two projections so that at least one first
portion of the plateau (in this example the whole plateau) defines
a predetermined depth of a space between the two projections. The
radial distance between the two projections is such that the free
contact end of the annular element is enclosed by the two
projections if the capsule is positioned in the enclosing member of
the beverage preparation device and the enclosing member is closed
by means of a closing member of the beverage preparation device.
Prior to use (see FIG. 4A) the at least one first portion of the
plateau (in this example the whole plateau) lays at a first height
above the cover so that the space has a first depth wherein, in
use, upon closing of the enclosing member by means of the closing
member at least one first portion of the plateau is lowered by
means of the free contact end of the annular element being moved
towards the closing element so that the plateau is at least partly
folded over the free contact end wherein after closing of the
enclosing member by means of the closing member the at least one
first portion of the plateau lays at a second height above the
cover (position 52') wherein the first height is larger than the
second height and the second height may be zero and so that the
space has a second depth relative to the at least one first portion
which is larger than the first depth.
[0075] FIG. 4B shows a second embodiment of a sealing member 28 at
the outwardly extending flange 20 of a capsule according to the
invention. When compared with FIG. 4A the following differences are
noted. Each projection 50, 51 now comprises projection side wall
which is transverse with regard to the outwardly extending flange
20 of the aluminum capsule body. Further, in this second embodiment
the plateau 52 is curved, preferably conforming to the shape of the
free contact end of the annular element 6. It thus holds that the
sealing member comprises two spaced projections 50, 51, each
projecting from the outwardly extending flange 20 and a plateau 52
between the two projections so that at least one first portion of
the plateau (in this example the middle of the plateau) defines a
predetermined depth of a space between the two projections. The
radial distance between the two projections is such that the free
contact end of the annular element is enclosed by the two
projections if the capsule is positioned in the enclosing member of
the beverage preparation device and the enclosing member is closed
by means of a closing member of the beverage preparation device.
Prior to use (see FIG. 4B) the at least one first portion of the
plateau (in this example the middle of the plateau) lays at a first
height above the cover so that the space has a first depth wherein,
in use, upon closing of the enclosing member by means of the
closing member at least one first portion of the plateau is lowered
by means of the free contact end of the annular element being moved
towards the closing element so that the plateau is at least partly
folded over the free contact end wherein after closing of the
enclosing member by means of the closing member the at least one
first portion of the plateau lays at a second height above the
cover wherein the first height is larger than the second height and
the second height may be zero and so that the space has a second
depth relative to the at least one first portion which is larger
than the first depth.
[0076] FIG. 4C shows a third embodiment of a sealing member 28 at
the outwardly extending flange 20 of a capsule according to the
invention, which together with the side wall 16 of the aluminum
capsule body forms a bearing for the enclosing member. The shown
sealing member 28 comprises a projection 53 projecting from the
outwardly extending flange 20 and an inclined, substantially flat
plateau 52 between the top of the projection 53 and the side wall
16 of the aluminum capsule body. In this embodiment the bearing is
formed by the projection 53, the plateau 52 and the side wall 16 of
the aluminum capsule body. The distance between the top of the
projection 53 and the side wall 16 is such that the free contact
end of the annular element 6 is enclosed by the projection 53 and
the side wall 16 of the aluminum capsule body if the capsule is
positioned in the enclosing member of the beverage preparation
device and the enclosing member is closed by means of a closing
member of the beverage preparation device. In particular the
distance between the projection 53 and the side wall 16 of the
aluminum capsule body is such that the free contact end of the
annular element 6 is contacted by the projection 53 and the side
wall 16 and in the shown embodiment also the plateau 52 of the
aluminum capsule body if the capsule is positioned in the enclosing
member of the beverage preparation device and the enclosing member
is closed by means of a closing member of the beverage preparation
device. This distance may for instance be 0.9-1.25 mm. It holds
thus that prior to use (see FIG. 4C) at least one first portion of
the plateau (in this example at least a portion in the middle of
the plateau) lays at a first height above the cover. In use, upon
closing of the enclosing member by means of the closing member the
at least one first portion of the plateau is lowered by means of
the free contact end of the annular element being moved towards the
closing element so that the plateau is at least partly folded over
the free contact end. After closing of the enclosing member by
means of the closing member, the at least one first portion of the
plateau lays at a second height above the cover wherein the first
height is larger than the second height and the second height may
be zero.
[0077] FIG. 4D shows a fourth embodiment of a sealing member 28 at
the outwardly extending flange 20 of a capsule according to the
invention, which, together with the side wall 16 of the aluminum
capsule body, forms a bearing for the enclosing member. When
compared with FIG. 4C the following differences are noted. In this
fourth embodiment the plateau 52 is curved, and comprises a curved
portion (which forms in fact a portion of the inner sidewall of the
projection 53) and also a flat portion which is situated at the
same level as the portion of the outwardly extending flange 20
between the projection 53 and the curved edge 43. The curved
portion preferably conforms to the shape of the free contact end of
the annular element 6. It holds thus that prior to use (see FIG.
4D) at least one first portion of the plateau (in this example at
least a portion of the inner sidewall of the projection 53) lays at
a first height above the cover. In use, upon closing of the
enclosing member by means of the closing member the at least one
first portion of the plateau is lowered by means of the free
contact end of the annular element being moved towards the closing
element so that the plateau is at least partly folded over the free
contact end. After closing of the enclosing member by means of the
closing member, the at least one first portion of the plateau lays
at a second height above the cover wherein the first height is
larger than the second height and the second height may be zero.
FIG. 4E shows a fifth embodiment of a sealing member 28 at the
outwardly extending flange 20 of a capsule according to the
invention, which, together with the side wall 16 of the aluminum
capsule body, forms a bearing for the enclosing member. When
compared with FIG. 4D the following difference is noted. In this
fifth embodiment the flat portion of the plateau 52 is situated at
a distance above the portion of the outwardly extending flange 20
between the projection 53 and the curved edge 43. It holds thus
that prior (see FIG. 4E) to use at least one first portion of the
plateau (in this example at least a portion of the inner sidewall
of the projection 53) lays at a first height above the cover. In
use, upon closing of the enclosing member by means of the closing
member the at least one first portion of the plateau is lowered by
means of the free contact end of the annular element being moved
towards the closing element so that the plateau is at least partly
folded over the free contact end. After closing of the enclosing
member by means of the closing member, the at least one first
portion of the plateau lays at a second height above the cover
wherein the first height is larger than the second height and the
second height may be zero.
[0078] In the embodiments shown in FIGS. 4C to 4E the projection 53
comprises an outer projection side wall 54 which is transverse to
the portion of the outwardly extending flange between the
projection 53 and the curled edge 43, but in other embodiments this
outer projection side wall 54 can be inclined with regard to said
portion of the outwardly extending flange 20.
[0079] In all the embodiments shown in FIGS. 4A to 4E each of the
projections comprises a projection top. In preferred embodiments at
least one projection but preferably all projections forming the
bearing is/are configured such that its projection top exerts a
radial force on the free contact end of the annular element 6 if
the capsule is positioned in the enclosing member of the beverage
preparation device and the enclosing member is closed by means of a
closing member of the beverage preparation device. Also for each of
the embodiments shown in FIGS. 4A to 4E it holds that prior to use
at least a first portion of the bearing lays at a first height
above the cover wherein, in use, upon closing of the enclosing
member by means of the closing member the at least one first
portion of the bearing is lowered by means of the free contact end
of the annular element being moved towards the closing element
wherein the bearing is at least partly folded over the free contact
end of the annular element so that after closing of the enclosing
member by means of the closing member the at least one first
portion of the bearing lays at a second height above the cover
wherein the first height is larger than the second height and the
second height may be zero.
[0080] In the foregoing specification, the invention has been
described with reference to specific examples of embodiments of the
invention. It will, however, be evident that various modifications
and changes may be made therein without departing from the broader
spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the appended
claims.
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