[go: up one dir, main page]

EP2412645A1 - Pre-filled infusion capsule, associated manufacturing method and device - Google Patents

Pre-filled infusion capsule, associated manufacturing method and device Download PDF

Info

Publication number
EP2412645A1
EP2412645A1 EP10007827A EP10007827A EP2412645A1 EP 2412645 A1 EP2412645 A1 EP 2412645A1 EP 10007827 A EP10007827 A EP 10007827A EP 10007827 A EP10007827 A EP 10007827A EP 2412645 A1 EP2412645 A1 EP 2412645A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
capsule
bottom wall
filter
outer face
fixing
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Withdrawn
Application number
EP10007827A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Inventor
Azad G. Hiridjee
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Samar Technologies Ltd
Original Assignee
Samar Technologies Ltd
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Samar Technologies Ltd filed Critical Samar Technologies Ltd
Priority to EP10007827A priority Critical patent/EP2412645A1/en
Publication of EP2412645A1 publication Critical patent/EP2412645A1/en
Withdrawn legal-status Critical Current

Links

Images

Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65B—MACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
    • B65B7/00—Closing containers or receptacles after filling
    • B65B7/16—Closing semi-rigid or rigid containers or receptacles not deformed by, or not taking-up shape of, contents, e.g. boxes or cartons
    • B65B7/162—Closing semi-rigid or rigid containers or receptacles not deformed by, or not taking-up shape of, contents, e.g. boxes or cartons by feeding web material to securing means
    • B65B7/164—Securing by heat-sealing
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65B—MACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
    • B65B29/00—Packaging of materials presenting special problems
    • B65B29/02—Packaging of substances, e.g. tea, which are intended to be infused in the package
    • B65B29/022—Packaging of substances, e.g. tea, which are intended to be infused in the package packaging infusion material into capsules
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65B—MACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
    • B65B47/00—Apparatus or devices for forming pockets or receptacles in or from sheets, blanks, or webs, comprising essentially a die into which the material is pressed or a folding die through which the material is moved
    • B65B47/04—Apparatus or devices for forming pockets or receptacles in or from sheets, blanks, or webs, comprising essentially a die into which the material is pressed or a folding die through which the material is moved by application of mechanical pressure
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65B—MACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
    • B65B61/00—Auxiliary devices, not otherwise provided for, for operating on sheets, blanks, webs, binding material, containers or packages
    • B65B61/04—Auxiliary devices, not otherwise provided for, for operating on sheets, blanks, webs, binding material, containers or packages for severing webs, or for separating joined packages
    • B65B61/06—Auxiliary devices, not otherwise provided for, for operating on sheets, blanks, webs, binding material, containers or packages for severing webs, or for separating joined packages by cutting
    • B65B61/065—Auxiliary devices, not otherwise provided for, for operating on sheets, blanks, webs, binding material, containers or packages for severing webs, or for separating joined packages by cutting by punching out
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65B—MACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
    • B65B61/00—Auxiliary devices, not otherwise provided for, for operating on sheets, blanks, webs, binding material, containers or packages
    • B65B61/20—Auxiliary devices, not otherwise provided for, for operating on sheets, blanks, webs, binding material, containers or packages for adding cards, coupons or other inserts to package contents
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65B—MACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
    • B65B9/00—Enclosing successive articles, or quantities of material, e.g. liquids or semiliquids, in flat, folded, or tubular webs of flexible sheet material; Subdividing filled flexible tubes to form packages
    • B65B9/02—Enclosing successive articles, or quantities of material between opposed webs
    • B65B9/04—Enclosing successive articles, or quantities of material between opposed webs one or both webs being formed with pockets for the reception of the articles, or of the quantities of material
    • B65B9/042—Enclosing successive articles, or quantities of material between opposed webs one or both webs being formed with pockets for the reception of the articles, or of the quantities of material for fluent material
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D85/00—Containers, packaging elements or packages, specially adapted for particular articles or materials
    • B65D85/70—Containers, packaging elements or packages, specially adapted for particular articles or materials for materials not otherwise provided for
    • B65D85/804—Disposable containers or packages with contents which are mixed, infused or dissolved in situ, i.e. without having been previously removed from the package
    • B65D85/8043—Packages adapted to allow liquid to pass through the contents
    • B65D85/8046—Pods, i.e. closed containers made only of filter paper or similar material
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D85/00—Containers, packaging elements or packages, specially adapted for particular articles or materials
    • B65D85/70—Containers, packaging elements or packages, specially adapted for particular articles or materials for materials not otherwise provided for
    • B65D85/804—Disposable containers or packages with contents which are mixed, infused or dissolved in situ, i.e. without having been previously removed from the package
    • B65D85/8043—Packages adapted to allow liquid to pass through the contents
    • B65D85/8061—Filters
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65B—MACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
    • B65B57/00—Automatic control, checking, warning, or safety devices
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65B—MACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
    • B65B61/00—Auxiliary devices, not otherwise provided for, for operating on sheets, blanks, webs, binding material, containers or packages
    • B65B61/20—Auxiliary devices, not otherwise provided for, for operating on sheets, blanks, webs, binding material, containers or packages for adding cards, coupons or other inserts to package contents
    • B65B61/202—Auxiliary devices, not otherwise provided for, for operating on sheets, blanks, webs, binding material, containers or packages for adding cards, coupons or other inserts to package contents for attaching articles to the outside of a container

Definitions

  • the invention mainly relates to a pre-filled infusion capsule.
  • the invention also relates to a method of manufacturing such a capsule and the device for carrying out this method.
  • Waterproof capsules containing coffee are known. These capsules may be made of a metallic material such as aluminum or a thermoplastic material.
  • a first chain allows the development of the body of the capsule and a second chain ensures its filling and sealing.
  • Such a process involves substantial costs related to the manufacturing time and the transport of empty capsule bodies to the second production line.
  • the present invention aims a pre-filled infusion capsule to overcome the aforementioned disadvantages relating to the sealed capsules on the one hand, and pierced capsules on the other hand.
  • the invention also relates to a method of manufacturing such a pre-filled capsule comprising a single production line.
  • the invention further provides a device adapted to this manufacturing method.
  • the pre-filled infusion capsule of the invention is characterized in that it comprises a body made in one piece of a thermoplastic material extending along a main axis and having a flange forming a furrow which delimits a main opening and which is extended by a coaxial side wall ending in a bottom wall having a bore, the mean diameter of the body of the capsule taken at the central opening being greater than the average diameter taken at the wall base, in that it comprises a main cap impervious to liquids, fixed on the upper face of the flange and hermetically sealing the main opening of the capsule, in that it comprises a prehensile cap impervious to liquids, fixed on the outer face of the bottom wall and closing the bore, said gripping cap comprising gripping means allowing it to be detached from the wall bottom in discovering the piercing, and in that it comprises a filter permeable to liquids and fixed in the body of the capsule in abutment against the inner face of the bottom wall of said capsule forcing any liquid flowing through piercing from
  • the capsule of the invention comprises a body 11 made in one piece of a mixture of polypropylene, polyethylene and an ethylene copolymer of vinyl alcohol.
  • the body 11 extends along a main axis XX 'comprises a flange 17 which protrudes which defines a main opening 18 and which is extended by a coaxial side wall ending in a bottom wall 12 having a central bore 13.
  • the average diameter D taken at the level of the main opening 18 is greater than the average diameter d of the bottom wall 12.
  • the capsule 10 further comprises a main lid 16 impervious to liquids, fixed by thermal welding on the upper face 17a of the flange 17 and hermetically sealing the main opening 18 of the capsule 10.
  • a prehensible seal 12 impervious to liquids is fixed by thermal welding on the outer face 12a of the bottom wall 12 by closing the central bore 13.
  • This prehensible cap 12 is made of an aluminum layer in contact with the outer face 12a of the bottom wall 12, covered with a layer of polypropylene.
  • the prehensible cap comprises a gripping tab 14a allowing it to be detached from the bottom wall 12 by discovering the bore 13 at the time of use of the capsule.
  • the capsule of the invention 10 comprises a liquid-permeable filter 15 which is fixed in abutment against the inner face 12b of the bottom wall 12 forcing any liquid flowing through the central bore 13 to pass through the filter 15.
  • the capsule is filled with coffee 20.
  • the capsule of the invention 10 is a pierced capsule since it comprises a piercing 13 through which the liquid brewed coffee flows from inside the capsule 10 to a suitable distribution circuit made in the dispenser infusion. It is therefore not necessary to provide piercing means in the infusion dispenser.
  • thermoplastic material impermeable to liquids to achieve the main seal 16 and the presence of the prehensible cap 14 closing the central bore 13 allows to isolate tightly the coffee from the outside of the capsule allowing it to retain its properties and flavor that it is necessary to pack the capsule until its use.
  • thermoforming manufacturing step 2 of the body 11 of the capsule 10 first undergoes a thermoforming manufacturing step 2 of the body 11 of the capsule 10 during which a mold 3 provided with an upper part 4 and a lower part 5 are heated and come to grip the thermoplastic film strip 1 thus forming the body 11 of the capsule 10.
  • a mold 3 provided with an upper part 4 and a lower part 5 are heated and come to grip the thermoplastic film strip 1 thus forming the body 11 of the capsule 10.
  • the body of the capsule 11 undergoes a drilling operation 6 during which an orifice 13 is made in the bottom wall 12 of the body of the capsule 11.
  • This drilling operation 6 of the bottom wall 12 is carried out by a cutting punch 7 located above the thermoplastic film strip 1 and a matrix 8 located under the thermoplastic film strip 1 and having a recess 9 coinciding with the cutting punch 7 so that when the matrix 8 comes into contact with the body of the capsule 11, the cutting punch 7 passes through the bottom wall 12 of the body of the capsule 11 forming the bore 13.
  • the bore 13 is formed in the center of the bottom wall 12.
  • the prehensible cap 14 is applied to the outer face 12a of the bottom wall 12 of the body of the capsule 11 during an operation of laying and fixing the prehensible cap 20 consisting mainly of performing a cutting step 21 of a film strip 22 followed by a transport step 23 of the prehensible cap 20 cut from the cutting zone to near the outer face 12a of the bottom wall 12 of the body of the capsule 12, followed by a heat-sealing step 22 during which a heated upper die 25a and a heated lower die 25b facing each other on either side of the capsule body are actuated in motion until they contact the wall bottom 12 for heat welding the prehensible cap 14 on the outer face 12a of the bottom wall 12 of the body of the capsule 11.
  • This operation is detailed below with reference to the figure 4 .
  • a filter 15 made of a material permeable to fluids is placed in the bottom of the capsule 20 bearing against the inner face 12b of the bottom wall 12 during a laying operation and fixing the filter 26 which will be detailed with reference to the figure 5 .
  • the capsule is then filled with infusion during a filling step of the capsule 27.
  • the infusion is coffee
  • coffee beans is brought by means not shown in the hopper of a mill 28
  • the filling is carried out by means of a filling nozzle 30 inside which a worm 31, connected to the tank 29, forms an infusion dispenser in the capsule by means of a filling nozzle 30.
  • the device of the invention allows, mainly by adjusting the screw thread, fill the capsule with about 7 grams of coffee.
  • the filling of the capsule by means of an endless screw makes it possible to ensure that the filling operation respects the rate of the production line without slowing it down.
  • the filling operation 27 is followed by an aspiration of the coffee on the edge of the capsule and a compression of the coffee in the capsule, operations not shown in the figures that the skilled person will easily implement.
  • an operation of laying and fixing the main seal 32 on the outer face 17a of the flange 17 of the capsule 10 is performed.
  • This operation consists mainly of a centering operation 33 of a thermoplastic film strip 36 made of a material impervious to fluids followed by an application operation 34 of this thermoplastic film strip on the capsule and a welding operation by the heat 35 of the thermoplastic film on the outer face 17a of the flange 17 of the capsule 10.
  • This laying and fixing operation 32 of the main lid will be detailed with reference to the figure 6 .
  • the capsule is then cut during a cutting operation 37 by means of an upper die 38a whose external edges are sharp and a lower die 38b which is adapted to the configuration of the upper die 38 so as to oppose the cutting force generated by the upper die 38a which is controlled in motion towards and up to the capsule 10.
  • the capsule 10 undergoes a weighing control operation 39 consisting in weighing the capsule 10.
  • a weighing control operation 39 consisting in weighing the capsule 10.
  • Each of the preceding operations induces a very precise addition of weight, which makes it possible to know the reference mass of a capsule 10 and of compare it with the weight of each of the capsules 10 at the output of the production line.
  • This method simple to implement, allows for precise control of the capsule since a tiny change in weight shows that one of the previous operations is not compliant and that the capsule is defective. Unrepresented sorting means make it possible to separate the conforming capsules from the defective capsules.
  • the device and the method of the invention make it possible to manufacture on a single production line, a pre-filled coffee capsule from a thermoplastic film strip.
  • thermoforming means 40 of the body 11 of the capsule 10 of the device of the invention are described.
  • the thermoplastic film strip 1 is in the form of a roll.
  • the thermoplastic film strip 1 is unwound and passes through a preheating chamber 41 in which it is held in tension by means of drive rollers 42 alternately arranged in the lower part. of the preheating chamber 41 and in its lower part.
  • the temperature in the preheating chamber 41 is maintained at 125 ° C. by suitable means.
  • thermoplastic film strip 1 is driven into a heating chamber 43 comprising a heating mold 44 consisting of an upper portion 45 and a lower portion 46 facing each other while being located on both sides of the thermoplastic film strip 1 maintained in tension.
  • Each of the upper 45 and lower 46 portions of the heating mold have respective local heating zones 45a, 46a which are maintained at a temperature of 140 ° C and are arranged opposite each other on the other hand. other of the thermoplastic film strip 1.
  • the upper portions 45 and lower 46 are moved in the direction of and up to the thermoplastic film strip 1, the application of the local heating zones 45a and 46a on the thermoplastic film strip 1 for heating the thermoplastic film strip 1 at the level of the zones intended to undergo the following operation of shaping the body 11 of the capsules 10.
  • thermoplastic film strip 1 After undergoing the heating step, the thermoplastic film strip 1 is driven into a thermoforming mold 47 whose upper part 4 comprises a punch 48 whose shape corresponds to the desired shape of the body 11 of the capsule 10 and the part bottom 5 is the negative of the upper part 4 so that when the upper 4 and lower 5 parts grip the previously heated thermoplastic film strip 1, this results in the formation of the body 11 of the capsule 10.
  • a thermoforming mold 47 whose upper part 4 comprises a punch 48 whose shape corresponds to the desired shape of the body 11 of the capsule 10 and the part bottom 5 is the negative of the upper part 4 so that when the upper 4 and lower 5 parts grip the previously heated thermoplastic film strip 1, this results in the formation of the body 11 of the capsule 10.
  • a roll of film 22 is unwound by suitable means.
  • the film is made of an aluminum layer covered with a layer of polypropylene.
  • the prehensible cap 14 is made by cutting by means of a lower die 50 having punches 50a whose outer edges are sharp and an upper die 51 having punches 53 adapted to the configuration of punches 50a of the lower die 50 so as to come to oppose the cutting force generated by the lower die 51 and to form by cutting the prehensible cap 14 provided with its gripping tab 14a.
  • the punches 53 of the upper die 51 also form a suction lug 53 which comes into contact with the cut-off prehensile cap 14 and grasps it by suction.
  • the upper die 51 is connected to unrepresented transport means for conveying the prehensible cap 14a according to the arrows F1 from the cutting zone to a clip 55 which holds the prehensible cap 14 in place by pinching the tongue grasping 14a.
  • the clamp 55 is connected to unrepresented transport means for conveying the prehensible cap 14 along the arrows F2 to the vicinity of the outer face 12a of the bottom wall 12 of the capsule 10.
  • the prehensible cap 14 is conveyed by displacement of the clamp 55 according to the arrows F2 under the body 11 of the capsule at the outer face 12a of its bottom wall 12.
  • an upper die 25a and a lower die 25b each provided with heated punches 25aa, 25bb which face each other on either side of the body 11 of the capsule are actuated in movement along arrows F3 and F4 up to contact with the bottom wall 12 which generates heat welding of the prehensible cap 14 on the outer face 12a of the bottom wall 12 of the body of the capsule 11.
  • the clamp 55 is controlled to release the prehensible cap 14 at the appropriate time for the welding of the prehensible cap 14 is effective.
  • the heat-sealing of the prehensible cap 14 is made possible by the combined induced chemical reactions of the action of heat on the thermoplastic forming the bottom wall 12 of the capsule 10 and the action of the heat on the polypropylene constituting the outer layer of the prehensible cover 14, the aluminum being in contact with the outer face 12a of the bottom wall 12.
  • the gripping cover 14 is thus held in place securely, without it being necessary to use any third material such as an adhesive for example.
  • the welding control is carried out by sending compressed air into the body of the capsule 10 and controls air leakage at the lid.
  • the means performing this check are not represented,
  • the filter 15 is brought close to the capsule 10 by means of a guide rail 57.
  • a suction lug 58 grasps the filter 15 by suction and is connected to displacement means 58a for transporting the seized filter. To the vicinity of the body 11 of the capsule 10. The suction lug 58 is then controlled in displacement towards the bottom wall 12 of the capsule 10 to deposit the filter 15 against the inner face 12b of this bottom wall 12 .
  • Fixing the filter 15 is performed by a not shown punch which exerts three pressures on the filter 15 in the direction of the bottom wall 12 to maintain the filter 15 in force in the bottom of the capsule 10.
  • thermoplastic film 36 is applied to the capsule 10 to form the main seal 16.
  • the thermoplastic film strip 36 is held in tension by drive rollers 61.
  • main lid 16 is the subject of a particular pattern on the thermoplastic film strip 36 and it is therefore necessary to ensure the centering of the strip before its application on the capsule 10 so that the pattern of the main lid 16 is well disposed opposite the main opening 18 of the capsule 10.
  • a lamp 62 sends a light to an area of the thermoplastic film strip 36 on which a repetitive mark 63 is made and detects this mark 63 as well as its position.
  • the lamp 62 is connected to detection means that are not represented by an offset of the mark 63 with respect to the displacement of the capsule 10 on the line making it possible to apprehend an offset which would have the consequence that the pattern forming the main seal 16 would not be applied next to the main opening 18 of the capsule.
  • two stretching plates 64a, 64b having non-visible engagement means on the thermoplastic film are controlled to stretch the thermoplastic film web to restore centering. This operation avoids a stop of the line in the case where there would be a decentering that would be observed.
  • thermoplastic film strip 36 to the capsule 10 is performed by an applicator roll 66 disposed against the capsule 10 after the stretching plates 64a, 64b and under which the thermoplastic film 36 passes.
  • thermoplastic film strip 36 is heat-welded to the outer face 17a of the flange 17 of the cap 10.
  • a welding mold 67 consists of an upper portion 68 and a lower portion 69 facing each other by being located on both sides of the thermoplastic film strip 1.
  • Each of the upper and lower portions 69 of the heating mold have respective local heating zones 68a, 69a which are held at a temperature suitable for welding and which are arranged opposite each other on the other hand. other of the capsule 10.
  • the upper 68 and lower 69 parts are actuated in displacement towards and up to the capsule 10, the application of the local heating zones 68a 69a at the collar 17 for welding the thermoplastic film strip 36 on the outer face 17a of the flange 17.
  • the capsule 10 is driven into a downwardly sloping groove 70 which itself drives the capsule 10 to a treadmill 71 made of a first part 72 and a second part 73.
  • the speed for driving the first portion 72 of the treadmill 71 is greater than the driving speed of the second portion 73 of the treadmill 71 so that a stopping time is marked by the capsule 10 when it passes over the second part 73 of the treadmill.
  • This downtime is materialized by the presence of a weighing system 74 of the capsule 10.
  • each capsule 10 is compared to a reference weight. A slight variation in weight shows that one of the previous operations is not compliant and that the capsule is defective. In this case, the capsule 10 is discharged into a waste tank not shown. In the case where the capsule 10 is compliant, the capsule 10 is discharged into a receiving tray 75. Unrepresented sorting means can separate the capsules from the defective capsules capsules.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Apparatus For Making Beverages (AREA)

Abstract

The capsule (10) has a body (11) formed from a single piece of thermoplastic material and extending along a main axis. A liquid impermeable, grippable cover plate (14) is fixed on an external face (12a) of a bottom wall (12) to close a central bore of the wall. The cover plate has a gripping tab allowing detachment of the plate from the wall to uncover the bore. A liquid impermeable filter (15) is fixed in the capsule body by supporting against an internal face (12b) of the wall to force a liquid that flows through the bore from interior of the capsule, to traverse the filter. Independent claims are also included for the following: (1) a method of manufacturing a pre-filled infusion capsule (2) a device for manufacturing a pre-filled infusion capsule.

Description

L'invention concerne principalement une capsule d'infusion pré-remplie. L'invention concerne également un procédé de fabrication d'une telle capsule ainsi que le dispositif permettant la mise en oeuvre de ce procédé.The invention mainly relates to a pre-filled infusion capsule. The invention also relates to a method of manufacturing such a capsule and the device for carrying out this method.

Les capsules de café pré-remplie destinées à préparer instantanément des cafés de type « expresso » sont bien connues de l'art antérieur.Pre-filled coffee capsules for instant preparation of espresso type coffees are well known in the art.

Ces capsules se présentent sous plusieurs formes.These capsules come in many forms.

On connait des capsules étanches renfermant du café. Ces capsules peuvent être réalisées en un matériau métallique tel que de l'aluminium ou en un matériau thermoplastique.Waterproof capsules containing coffee are known. These capsules may be made of a metallic material such as aluminum or a thermoplastic material.

Ces capsules présentent l'avantage de conserver durablement le café en évitant son oxydation jusqu'à son utilisation. Le distributeur de café doit néanmoins comporter des moyens de perçage ajustés permettant l'écoulement du café liquide.These capsules have the advantage of sustainably preserving the coffee avoiding its oxidation until use. The coffee dispenser must nevertheless have adjusted drilling means for the flow of liquid coffee.

On connait également des capsules percées. La paroi de fond par laquelle s'écoule le café liquide présente un perçage par lequel s'écoule le café liquide. Le café contenu dans la capsule en contact avec l'air ambiant est amené à perdre ses propriétés gustatives rapidement, II est donc nécessaire que cette capsule percée soit conservée dans un emballement étanche dans lequel par exemple, l'air aura été remplacée par de l'azote,We also know pierced capsules. The bottom wall through which the liquid coffee flows has a bore through which the liquid coffee flows. The coffee contained in the capsule in contact with the ambient air is caused to lose its taste properties quickly, It is therefore necessary that this pierced capsule is kept in a sealed runaway in which for example, the air will have been replaced by water. 'nitrogen,

Par ailleurs, il est connu d'utiliser deux chaînes de production pour préparer les capsules pré-remplies. Une première chaîne permet l'élaboration du corps de la capsule et une deuxième chaîne assure son remplissage et son scellage.Moreover, it is known to use two production lines to prepare the pre-filled capsules. A first chain allows the development of the body of the capsule and a second chain ensures its filling and sealing.

Un tel procédé implique des coûts conséquents liés au temps de fabrication et au transport des corps des capsules vides jusqu'à la deuxième chaîne de production.Such a process involves substantial costs related to the manufacturing time and the transport of empty capsule bodies to the second production line.

Dans ce contexte, la présente invention vise une capsule d'infusion pré-remplie permettant de palier les inconvénients précités relatifs aux capsules étanches d'une part, et aux capsules percées d'autre part.In this context, the present invention aims a pre-filled infusion capsule to overcome the aforementioned disadvantages relating to the sealed capsules on the one hand, and pierced capsules on the other hand.

L'invention vise également un procédé de fabrication d'une telle capsule pré-remplie comportant une seule chaîne de production.The invention also relates to a method of manufacturing such a pre-filled capsule comprising a single production line.

L'invention vise en outre un dispositif adapté à ce procédé de fabrication.The invention further provides a device adapted to this manufacturing method.

A cet effet, la capsule d'infusion pré-remplie de l'invention est caractérisée en ce qu'elle comprend un corps réalisé en une seule pièce en un matériau thermoplastique s'étendant selon un axe principal et comportant une collerette faisant saille qui délimite une ouverture principale et qui se prolonge par une paroi latérale coaxiale se terminant par une paroi de fond comportant un perçage, le diamètre moyen du corps de la capsule pris au niveau de l'ouverture centrale étant supérieur au diamètre moyen pris au niveau de la paroi de fond, en ce qu'elle comporte un opercule principal imperméable aux liquides, fixé sur la face supérieure de la collerette et obturant hermétiquement l'ouverture principale de la capsule, en ce qu'elle comporte un opercule préhensible imperméable aux liquides, fixé sur la face externe de la paroi de fond et obturant le perçage, le dit opercule préhensible comportant des moyens de préhension lui permettant d'être détaché de la paroi de fond en découvrant le perçage, et en ce qu'elle comporte un filtre perméable aux liquides et fixé dans le corps de la capsule en appui contre la face interne de la paroi de fond de la dite capsule obligeant tout liquide s'écoulant à travers le perçage depuis l'intérieur de la capsule à traverser le filtre.For this purpose, the pre-filled infusion capsule of the invention is characterized in that it comprises a body made in one piece of a thermoplastic material extending along a main axis and having a flange forming a furrow which delimits a main opening and which is extended by a coaxial side wall ending in a bottom wall having a bore, the mean diameter of the body of the capsule taken at the central opening being greater than the average diameter taken at the wall base, in that it comprises a main cap impervious to liquids, fixed on the upper face of the flange and hermetically sealing the main opening of the capsule, in that it comprises a prehensile cap impervious to liquids, fixed on the outer face of the bottom wall and closing the bore, said gripping cap comprising gripping means allowing it to be detached from the wall bottom in discovering the piercing, and in that it comprises a filter permeable to liquids and fixed in the body of the capsule in abutment against the inner face of the bottom wall of said capsule forcing any liquid flowing through piercing from the inside of the capsule through the filter.

La capsule de l'invention peut également comporter les caractéristiques optionnelles suivantes considérées isolément ou selon toutes les combinaisons techniques possibles :

  • le corps de la capsule est fait d'un mélange de polypropylène, polyéthylène et d'un copolymère d'éthylène d'alcool vinylique.
  • l'opercule préhensible (14) comprend une couche de métal recouverte d'une couche de matériau thermoplastique,
  • l'opercule préhensible (14) comprend une couche d'aluminium recouverte d'une couche de polypropylène.
The capsule of the invention may also include the following optional features considered in isolation or in any possible technical combination:
  • the body of the capsule is made of a blend of polypropylene, polyethylene and an ethylene copolymer of vinyl alcohol.
  • the prehensible cap (14) comprises a layer of metal covered with a layer of thermoplastic material,
  • the prehensible cap (14) comprises an aluminum layer coated with a polypropylene layer.

L'invention porte également sur un procédé de fabrication de la capsule précédemment énoncée et qui est caractérisé en ce qu'il comprend les étapes de :

  • fabrication du corps de la capsule par thermoformage à partir d'une bande de film thermoplastique,
  • perçage de la paroi de fond.
  • pose et fixation de l'opercule préhensible contre la face externe de la paroi de fond,
  • pose et fixation du filtre contre la face interne de la paroi de fond de la capsule,
  • remplissage de la capsule par une infusion,
  • pose et fixation de l'opercule principal contre la face externe de la collerette, et
  • découpage de la capsule.
The invention also relates to a method of manufacturing the capsule previously stated and which is characterized in that it comprises the steps of:
  • manufacturing the body of the capsule by thermoforming from a thermoplastic film strip,
  • drilling the bottom wall.
  • laying and fixing the operculum prehensile against the outer face of the bottom wall,
  • placing and fixing the filter against the internal face of the bottom wall of the capsule,
  • filling the capsule with an infusion,
  • laying and fixing the main lid against the outer face of the flange, and
  • cutting of the capsule.

Le procédé de l'invention peut également comporter les caractéristiques optionnelles suivantes considérées isolément ou selon toutes les combinaisons techniques possibles :

  • l'étape de fabrication du corps de la capsule comprend les étapes de :
    • ○ préchauffage de la bande de thermoplastique,
    • ○ chauffage de la bande de thermoplastique au niveau des zones destinées à être thermoformées,
    • ○ mise en forme du corps de la capsule par thermoformage.
  • le préchauffage est effectué à une température de 125°C et en ce que le chauffage est effectué à une température de 140 °C.
  • l'étape de pose et de fixation de l'opercule préhensible comprend les étapes de :
    • ○ découpe de l'opercule préhensible à partir d'une bande de film faite d'une couche de métal recouverte d'un film thermoplastique,
    • ○ transport de l'opercule préhensible découpé jusqu'à proximité de la face externe de la paroi de fond de la capsule,
    • ○ soudage thermique de l'opercule préhensible sur la face externe de la paroi de fond de la capsule.
  • l'étape de pose et de fixation du filtre comprend les étapes de :
    • ○ transport du filtre à proximité de la capsule,
    • ○ préhension du filtre,
    • ○ dépose du filtre contre la face interne de la paroi de fond de la capsule,
    • ○ fixation du filtre contré la face interne de la paroi de fond de la capsule.
  • la préhension du filtre s'effectue par aspiration.
  • la fixation du filtre s'effectue par application d'au moins une pression sur le filtre dirigée vers la paroi de fond de la capsule afin de maintenir le filtre en force dans le fond de la capsule.
  • l'étape de remplissage de la capsule est réalisée par translation rotative d'une vis sans fin supportant l'infusion vers et jusqu'au corps de la capsule.
  • la pose et la fixation de l'opercule principal comprend les étapes de :
    • ○ application d'une bande de film thermoplastique sur la face externe de la collerette de la capsule,
    • ○ soudage thermique de la bande de film thermoplastique sur la face externe de la collerette de la capsule.
  • l'opercule principal présente un motif et en ce que préalablement à son application, la bande de film thermoplastique est centrée de façon que les motifs soient disposés en regard de l'ouverture principale de la capsule.
  • l'opération de centrage consiste à détecter la position d'un repère répétitif réalisé sur la bande de film thermoplastique et dans le cas où le repère serait décalé par rapport à une position théorique, la bande de film thermoplastique est étirée de façon à rétablir le centrage.
  • Après l'étape de découpage, la capsule est pesée,
The method of the invention may also include the following optional characteristics considered in isolation or in any possible technical combination:
  • the manufacturing step of the body of the capsule comprises the steps of:
    • ○ preheating the thermoplastic strip,
    • ○ heating the thermoplastic strip at the areas to be thermoformed,
    • ○ shaping the body of the capsule by thermoforming.
  • the preheating is carried out at a temperature of 125 ° C and the heating is carried out at a temperature of 140 ° C.
  • the step of laying and fixing the prehensible cap comprises the steps of:
    • ○ cutting the prehensible cap from a film strip made of a metal layer covered with a thermoplastic film,
    • ○ transport of the cut-off operculum cut to near the outer face of the bottom wall of the capsule,
    • ○ thermal welding of the prehensible cap on the outer face of the bottom wall of the capsule.
  • the step of laying and fixing the filter comprises the steps of:
    • ○ transport of the filter near the capsule,
    • ○ gripping the filter,
    • ○ removal of the filter against the internal face of the bottom wall of the capsule,
    • ○ attachment of the filter against the inner face of the bottom wall of the capsule.
  • the filter is gripped by suction.
  • the filter is fixed by applying at least one pressure on the filter directed towards the bottom wall of the capsule in order to maintain the filter in force in the bottom of the capsule.
  • the filling step of the capsule is performed by rotating translation of a worm supporting the infusion to and to the body of the capsule.
  • the installation and fixing of the main lid comprises the steps of:
    • ○ application of a strip of thermoplastic film on the external face of the collar of the capsule,
    • ○ thermal welding of the thermoplastic film strip on the outer face of the collar of the capsule.
  • the main seal has a pattern and in that prior to its application, the thermoplastic film strip is centered so that the patterns are arranged opposite the main opening of the capsule.
  • the centering operation consists in detecting the position of a repetitive mark made on the thermoplastic film strip and in the case where the marker is offset with respect to a theoretical position, the thermoplastic film strip is stretched so as to restore the centering.
  • After the cutting step, the capsule is weighed,

L'invention porte en outre sur un dispositif pour mettre en oeuvre le procédé de fabrication précédemment énoncé, caractérisé en ce qu'il comprend au moins :

  • des moyens de thermoformage du corps de la capsule à partir d'une bande de film thermoplastique,
  • des moyens de perçage de la paroi de fond de la capsule,
  • des moyens de pose et de fixation de l'opercule préhensible contre la face externe de la paroi de fond de la capsule,
  • des moyens de pose et de fixation du filtre contre la face interne de la paroi de fond de la capsule,
  • des moyens de remplissage de la capsule,
  • des moyens de pose et de fixation de l'opercule central contre la face externe de la collerette, et
  • des moyens de découpage de la capsule.
The invention further relates to a device for implementing the previously stated manufacturing method, characterized in that it comprises at least:
  • means for thermoforming the body of the capsule from a thermoplastic film strip,
  • means for piercing the bottom wall of the capsule,
  • means for placing and fixing the operculum prehensile against the outer face of the bottom wall of the capsule,
  • means for placing and fixing the filter against the internal face of the bottom wall of the capsule,
  • means for filling the capsule,
  • means for laying and fixing the central lid against the outer face of the collar, and
  • means for cutting the capsule.

Le dispositif de l'invention peut également comporter les caractéristiques optionnelles suivantes considérées isolément ou selon toutes les combinaisons techniques possibles:

  • les moyens de thermoformage comprennent :
    • ○ des moyens de préchauffage de la bande de film thermoplastique,
    • ○ des moyens de chauffage de la bande de film thermoplastique au niveau de la zone destinée à être thermoformée, et
    • ○ des moyens de misé en forme du corps de la capsule par thermoformage.
  • les moyens de pose et de fixation de l'opercule préhensible contre la face externe de la paroi de fond de la capsule comprennent des moyens de découpe de l'opercule préhensible sur une bande de film faite d'une couche de métal recouverte d'un film thermoplastique, des moyens de transport de l'opercule préhensible depuis la zone de découpe de l'opercule préhensible jusqu'au niveau de la face externe de la paroi de fond de la capsule et des moyens de thermosoudage de l'opercule préhensible sur la face externe de la paroi de fond de la capsule.
  • les moyens de préhension de l'opercule préhensible comprennent une patte d'aspiration, les moyens de transport de l'opercule préhensible depuis la zone de découpe de l'opercule préhensible jusqu'au niveau de la face externe de la paroi de fond de la capsule comprennent des moyens de transport de l'opercule préhensible aspiré jusqu'à une pince maintenant l'opercule préhensile en place et des moyens de transport de la dite pince jusqu'à proximité de la face externe de la paroi de fond de la capsule, et les moyens de thermosoudage comprennent deux matrices chauffantes se faisant face en étant disposées de part et d'autre de la capsule et susceptibles d'être actionnées en translation jusqu'à contact avec la paroi de fond respectivement au niveau de sa face externe et de sa face interne.
  • les moyens de pose et de fixation du filtre contre la face interne de la paroi de fond de la capsule comprennent des moyens de transport du filtre à proximité de la capsule, des moyens de préhension du filtre ainsi transporté, des moyens de dépose du filtre contre la face interne de la paroi de fond et des moyens de fixation du filtre ainsi déposé.
  • les moyens de préhension du filtre comprennent une patte d'aspiration et les moyens de fixation du filtre contre la face interne de la paroi de fond de la capsule comprennent un poinçon susceptible d'exercer au moins une pression sur le filtre en direction de la paroi de fond pour maintenir le filtre en force dans le fond de la capsule.
  • les moyens de remplissage de la capsule comprennent une cuve remplie de l'infusion dont la partie inférieure présente une buse de remplissage à l'intérieure de laquelle une vis sans fin reliée à la cuve forme distributeur d'infusion dans la capsule par translation de cette vis sans fin transportant l'infusion vers et dans le corps de la capsule.
  • le pas de la vis sans fin, le nombre de tours réalisés par la vis sans fin et sa vitesse lors du remplissage de la capsule déterminent la quantité d'infusion introduite dans la capsule.
  • les moyens de pose et de fixation de l'opercule central contre la face externe de la collerette comprennent des moyens d'application d'une bande de film thermoplastique sur la face externe de la collerette de la capsule et des moyens de soudages thermiques de cette bande de film thermoplastique sur la face externe de la collerette de la capsule.
  • l'opercule principal présente un motif et en ce que le dispositif comprend en outre des moyens de centrage de la bande de film thermoplastique permettant aux motifs de l'opercule principal d'être disposés en regard de l'ouverture principale de la capsule.
  • les moyens de centrage de la bande de film thermoplastique comprennent des moyens d'émission d'une lumière au niveau d'une zone de la bande de film thermoplastique sur laquelle est réalisé un repère répétitif, des moyens de détection d'un décalage du repère et des moyens d'étirement de la bande de thermoplastique dans le cas ou un décalage serait identifié.
  • le dispositif comprend en outre des moyens pour peser la capsule remplie et découpée.
The device of the invention may also include the following optional features considered in isolation or in any possible technical combination:
  • the thermoforming means comprise:
    • ○ means for preheating the thermoplastic film strip,
    • Means for heating the thermoplastic film strip at the zone to be thermoformed, and
    • ○ means of wagered in the form of the body of the capsule by thermoforming.
  • the means for placing and fixing the operculum which can be grasped against the external face of the bottom wall of the capsule comprise means for cutting the ophthalmic cap on a film strip made of a layer of metal covered with a thermoplastic film, means for transporting the ophthalmic prehensile from the cutting area of the prehensible cap to the level of the outer face of the bottom wall of the capsule and heat-sealing means of the ophthalmic seal on the outer face of the bottom wall of the capsule.
  • the gripping means of the prehensible cap comprise a suction lug, the means of transport of the cap that can be grasped from the cutting area of the gripping cap to the level of the outer face of the bottom wall of the cap. capsule comprise means for transporting the gripping operculum sucked up to a gripper holding the prehensile lid in place and means of transporting said gripper to near the outer face of the bottom wall of the capsule, and the heat-sealing means comprise two heating matrices facing one another, arranged on either side of the capsule and capable of being actuated in translation until they contact the bottom wall respectively at its external face and its internal face.
  • the means for placing and fixing the filter against the internal face of the bottom wall of the capsule comprise means for transporting the filter in the vicinity of the capsule, means for gripping the filter thus conveyed, means for removing the filter against the inner face of the bottom wall and fixing means of the filter thus deposited.
  • the gripping means of the filter comprise a suction lug and the filter fixing means against the internal face of the bottom wall of the capsule comprise a punch capable of exerting at least one pressure on the filter in the direction of the wall bottom to hold the filter in force in the bottom of the capsule.
  • the filling means of the capsule comprise a tank filled with the infusion, the lower part of which has a filling nozzle inside which a worm connected to the infusion dispenser-forming tank in the capsule by translation of this worm carrying the infusion to and into the body of the capsule.
  • the pitch of the worm, the number of turns made by the worm and its speed during filling of the capsule determine the amount of infusion introduced into the capsule.
  • the means for placing and fixing the central lid against the outer face of the flange comprise means for applying a thermoplastic film strip to the outer face of the flange of the capsule and thermal welding means thereof. thermoplastic film strip on the outer face of the capsule flange.
  • the main cover has a pattern and in that the device further comprises centering means of the thermoplastic film strip allowing the patterns of the main cover to be arranged opposite the main opening of the capsule.
  • the centering means of the thermoplastic film strip comprise means for emitting light at a zone of the thermoplastic film strip on which a repetitive reference mark is made, means for detecting an offset of the reference mark and means for stretching the thermoplastic web in the case where an offset would be identified.
  • the device further comprises means for weighing the filled and cut capsule.

D'autres caractéristiques et avantages de l'invention ressortiront clairement de la description qui en est donnée ci-dessous, à titre indicatif et nullement limitatif, en référence aux figures annexées sur lesquelles :

  • la figure 1 est une vue schématique en coupe d'une capsule de l'invention,
  • la figure 2 est un diagramme schématique des principales étapes du procédé de l'invention,
  • la figure 3 est une vue schématique en perspective des moyens de fabrication du corps de la capsule du dispositif de l'invention,
  • la figure 4 est une vue schématique en perspective des moyens de pose et de fixation de l'opercule préhensible selon le dispositif de l'invention,
  • la figure 5 est une vue schématique en perspective des moyens de pose et de fixation du filtre selon le dispositif de l'invention,
  • la figure 6 est une vue schématique en perspective des moyens de pose et de fixation de l'opercule central contre la face externe de la collerette de la capsule selon le dispositif de l'invention, et
  • la figure 7 est une vue schématique en perspective des moyens de contrôle par pesage de la capsule selon le dispositif de l'invention.
Other features and advantages of the invention will emerge clearly from the description which is given below, by way of indication and in no way limiting, with reference to the appended figures in which:
  • the figure 1 is a schematic sectional view of a capsule of the invention,
  • the figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the main steps of the process of the invention,
  • the figure 3 is a diagrammatic perspective view of the manufacturing means of the body of the capsule of the device of the invention,
  • the figure 4 is a schematic perspective view of the means for laying and fixing the prehensile cap according to the device of the invention,
  • the figure 5 is a schematic perspective view of the means for laying and fixing the filter according to the device of the invention,
  • the figure 6 is a schematic perspective view of the means for laying and fixing the central lid against the outer face of the collar of the capsule according to the device of the invention, and
  • the figure 7 is a schematic perspective view of the weighing control means of the capsule according to the device of the invention.

En référence à la figure 1, la capsule de l'invention 10 comprend un corps 11 réalisé en une seule pièce en un mélange de polypropylène, polyéthylène et d'un copolymère d'éthylène d'alcool vinylique. Le corps 11 s'étend selon un axe principal XX' comporte une collerette 17 faisant saille qui délimite une ouverture principale 18 et qui se prolonge par une paroi latérale coaxiale se terminant par une paroi de fond 12 comportant un perçage central 13.With reference to the figure 1 the capsule of the invention comprises a body 11 made in one piece of a mixture of polypropylene, polyethylene and an ethylene copolymer of vinyl alcohol. The body 11 extends along a main axis XX 'comprises a flange 17 which protrudes which defines a main opening 18 and which is extended by a coaxial side wall ending in a bottom wall 12 having a central bore 13.

Le diamètre moyen D pris au niveau de l'ouverture principale 18 est supérieur au diamètre moyen d de la paroi de fond 12.The average diameter D taken at the level of the main opening 18 is greater than the average diameter d of the bottom wall 12.

La capsule 10 comporte en outre un opercule principal 16 imperméable aux liquides, fixé par soudage thermique sur la face supérieure 17a de la collerette 17 et obturant hermétiquement l'ouverture principale 18 de la capsule 10.The capsule 10 further comprises a main lid 16 impervious to liquids, fixed by thermal welding on the upper face 17a of the flange 17 and hermetically sealing the main opening 18 of the capsule 10.

Un opercule préhensible 12 imperméable aux liquides est fixé par soudage thermique sur la face externe 12a de la paroi de fond 12 en obturant le perçage central 13. Cet opercule préhensible 12 est fait d'une couche d'aluminium en contact avec la face externe 12a de la paroi de fond 12, recouvert d'une couche de polypropylène.A prehensible seal 12 impervious to liquids is fixed by thermal welding on the outer face 12a of the bottom wall 12 by closing the central bore 13. This prehensible cap 12 is made of an aluminum layer in contact with the outer face 12a of the bottom wall 12, covered with a layer of polypropylene.

L'opercule préhensible comporte une languette de préhension 14a lui permettant d'être détaché de la paroi de fond 12 en découvrant le perçage 13 au moment de l'utilisation de la capsule.The prehensible cap comprises a gripping tab 14a allowing it to be detached from the bottom wall 12 by discovering the bore 13 at the time of use of the capsule.

Enfin, la capsule de l'invention 10 comporte un filtre 15 perméable aux liquides qui est fixé en appui contre la face interne 12b de la paroi de fond 12 obligeant tout liquide s'écoulant à travers le perçage central 13 à traverser le filtre 15.Finally, the capsule of the invention 10 comprises a liquid-permeable filter 15 which is fixed in abutment against the inner face 12b of the bottom wall 12 forcing any liquid flowing through the central bore 13 to pass through the filter 15.

La capsule est remplie de café 20.The capsule is filled with coffee 20.

La capsule de l'invention 10 est une capsule percée puisqu'elle comporte un perçage 13 par lequel le café infusé liquide s'écoule depuis l'intérieur de la capsule 10 vers un circuit de distribution adapté réalisé dans le distributeur d'infusion. Il n'est donc pas nécessaire de prévoir des moyens de perçage dans le distributeur d'infusion.The capsule of the invention 10 is a pierced capsule since it comprises a piercing 13 through which the liquid brewed coffee flows from inside the capsule 10 to a suitable distribution circuit made in the dispenser infusion. It is therefore not necessary to provide piercing means in the infusion dispenser.

Par ailleurs, l'utilisation d'un matériau thermoplastique imperméable aux liquides pour réaliser l'opercule principal 16 et la présence de l'opercule préhensible 14 obturant le perçage central 13 permet d'isoler de façon étanche le café de l'extérieur de la capsule lui permettant de conserver ses propriétés et sa saveur qu'il ne soit nécessaire d'emballer la capsule jusqu'à son utilisation.Furthermore, the use of a thermoplastic material impermeable to liquids to achieve the main seal 16 and the presence of the prehensible cap 14 closing the central bore 13 allows to isolate tightly the coffee from the outside of the capsule allowing it to retain its properties and flavor that it is necessary to pack the capsule until its use.

On décrit les étapes du procédé de l'invention et certaines parties du dispositif associé de l'invention en référence à la figure 2.The steps of the method of the invention and certain parts of the associated device of the invention are described with reference to the figure 2 .

Une bande de film thermoplastique 1 subie en premier lieu une étape de fabrication par thermoformage 2 du corps 11 de la capsule 10 au cours de laquelle un moule 3 muni d'une partie supérieure 4 et d'une partie inférieure 5 sont chauffés et viennent enserrer la bande de film thermoplastique 1 formant ainsi le corps 11 de la capsule 10. Les détails de cette opération sont donnés en référence à la figure 3.A strip of thermoplastic film 1 first undergoes a thermoforming manufacturing step 2 of the body 11 of the capsule 10 during which a mold 3 provided with an upper part 4 and a lower part 5 are heated and come to grip the thermoplastic film strip 1 thus forming the body 11 of the capsule 10. The details of this operation are given with reference to the figure 3 .

Puis, le corps de la capsule 11 subit une opération de perçage 6 au cours de laquelle un orifice 13 est réalisé dans la paroi de fond 12 du corps de la capsule 11. Cette opération de perçage 6 de la paroi de fond 12 est réalisée par un poinçon coupant 7 située au dessus de la bande de film thermoplastique 1 et une matrice 8 située sous la bande de film thermoplastique 1 et comportant un évidement 9 coïncidant avec le poinçon coupant 7 de façon que lorsque la matrice 8 vient en contact avec le corps de la capsule 11, le poinçon coupant 7 traverse la paroi de fond 12 du corps de la capsule 11 en formant le perçage 13. Le perçage 13 est réalisé au centre de la paroi de fond 12.Then, the body of the capsule 11 undergoes a drilling operation 6 during which an orifice 13 is made in the bottom wall 12 of the body of the capsule 11. This drilling operation 6 of the bottom wall 12 is carried out by a cutting punch 7 located above the thermoplastic film strip 1 and a matrix 8 located under the thermoplastic film strip 1 and having a recess 9 coinciding with the cutting punch 7 so that when the matrix 8 comes into contact with the body of the capsule 11, the cutting punch 7 passes through the bottom wall 12 of the body of the capsule 11 forming the bore 13. The bore 13 is formed in the center of the bottom wall 12.

Puis, l'opercule préhensible 14 est appliqué sur la face externe 12a de la paroi de fond 12 du corps de la capsule 11 lors d'une opération de pose et de fixation de l'opercule préhensible 20 consistant principalement à réaliser une étape de découpe 21 d'une bande de film 22 suivie d'une étape de transport 23 de l'opercule préhensible 20 découpé depuis la zone de découpe jusqu'à proximité de la face externe 12a de la paroi de fond 12 du corps de la capsule 12, suivie d'une étape de soudage thermique 22 au cours de laquelle une matrice supérieure chauffée 25a et une matrice inférieure chauffée 25b qui se font face de part et d'autre du corps de la capsule sont actionnées en mouvement jusqu'à contact avec la paroi de fond 12 pour souder par la chaleur l'opercule préhensible 14 sur la face externe 12a de la paroi de fond 12 du corps de la capsule 11. Cette opération est détaillée plus loin en référence à la figure 4.Then, the prehensible cap 14 is applied to the outer face 12a of the bottom wall 12 of the body of the capsule 11 during an operation of laying and fixing the prehensible cap 20 consisting mainly of performing a cutting step 21 of a film strip 22 followed by a transport step 23 of the prehensible cap 20 cut from the cutting zone to near the outer face 12a of the bottom wall 12 of the body of the capsule 12, followed by a heat-sealing step 22 during which a heated upper die 25a and a heated lower die 25b facing each other on either side of the capsule body are actuated in motion until they contact the wall bottom 12 for heat welding the prehensible cap 14 on the outer face 12a of the bottom wall 12 of the body of the capsule 11. This operation is detailed below with reference to the figure 4 .

Puis, un filtre 15 réalisé en un matériau perméable aux fluides est posé dans le fond de la capsule 20 en appui contre la face interne 12b de la paroi de fond 12 lors d'une opération de pose et de fixation du filtre 26 qui sera détaillée en référence à la figure 5.Then, a filter 15 made of a material permeable to fluids is placed in the bottom of the capsule 20 bearing against the inner face 12b of the bottom wall 12 during a laying operation and fixing the filter 26 which will be detailed with reference to the figure 5 .

La capsule est ensuite remplie d"infusion lors d'une étape de remplissage de la capsule 27. Dans le cas où l'infusion est du café, du café en grains est amené par des moyens non représentés dans la trémie d'un moulin 28, puis dans une cuve 29 pour dégazer. Le remplissage s'effectue au moyen d'une buse de remplissage 30 à l'intérieur de laquelle une vis sans fin 31, reliée à la cuve 29, forme distributeur d'infusion dans la capsule par translation rotative de cette vis sans fin 31. Le pas de la vis sans fin 31, le nombre de tours réalisés ainsi que la vitesse de rotation permettent d'ajuster la quantité de café introduit dans la capsule. Le dispositif de l'invention permet, principalement par ajustement du pas de vis, de remplir la capsule d'environ 7 grammes de café.The capsule is then filled with infusion during a filling step of the capsule 27. In the case where the infusion is coffee, coffee beans is brought by means not shown in the hopper of a mill 28 The filling is carried out by means of a filling nozzle 30 inside which a worm 31, connected to the tank 29, forms an infusion dispenser in the capsule by means of a filling nozzle 30. rotary translation of this worm 31. The pitch of the worm 31, the number of turns made and the rotation speed used to adjust the amount of coffee introduced into the capsule.The device of the invention allows, mainly by adjusting the screw thread, fill the capsule with about 7 grams of coffee.

Par ailleurs, la réalisation du remplissage de la capsule par l'intermédiaire d'une vis sans fin permet de faire en sorte que l'opération de remplissage respecte la cadence de la ligne de production sans la ralentir.Furthermore, the filling of the capsule by means of an endless screw makes it possible to ensure that the filling operation respects the rate of the production line without slowing it down.

L'opération de remplissage 27 est suivie d'une aspiration du café sur le bord de la capsule ainsi que d'une compression du café dans la capsule, opérations non représentées sur les figures que l'homme du métier saura facilement mettre en oeuvre.The filling operation 27 is followed by an aspiration of the coffee on the edge of the capsule and a compression of the coffee in the capsule, operations not shown in the figures that the skilled person will easily implement.

Une fois la capsule remplie de café, une opération de pose et de fixation de l'opercule principal 32 sur la face externe 17a de la collerette 17 de la capsule 10 est réalisée. Cette opération consiste principalement en une opération de centrage 33 d'une bande de film thermoplastique 36 réalisée en un matériau imperméable aux fluides suivie d'une opération d'application 34 de cette bande de film thermoplastique sur la capsule et d'une opération de soudage par la chaleur 35 du film thermoplastique sur la face externe 17a de la collerette 17 de la capsule 10. Cette opération de pose et de fixation 32 de l'opercule principal sera détaillée en référence à la figure 6.Once the capsule filled with coffee, an operation of laying and fixing the main seal 32 on the outer face 17a of the flange 17 of the capsule 10 is performed. This operation consists mainly of a centering operation 33 of a thermoplastic film strip 36 made of a material impervious to fluids followed by an application operation 34 of this thermoplastic film strip on the capsule and a welding operation by the heat 35 of the thermoplastic film on the outer face 17a of the flange 17 of the capsule 10. This laying and fixing operation 32 of the main lid will be detailed with reference to the figure 6 .

La capsule est ensuite découpée lors d'une opération de découpage 37 au moyens d'une matrice supérieure 38a dont les bords externes sont tranchants et d'une matrice inférieure 38b qui est adaptée à la configuration de la matrice supérieure 38 de façon à venir s'opposer à la force de découpe engendrée par la matrice supérieure 38a qui est commandée en mouvement vers et jusqu'à la capsule 10.The capsule is then cut during a cutting operation 37 by means of an upper die 38a whose external edges are sharp and a lower die 38b which is adapted to the configuration of the upper die 38 so as to oppose the cutting force generated by the upper die 38a which is controlled in motion towards and up to the capsule 10.

Une fois découpée, la capsule 10 subit une opération de contrôle par pesage 39 consistant à peser la capsule 10. Chacune des opérations précédentes induit un ajout de poids très précis, ce qui permet de connaître la masse de référence d'une capsule 10 et de la comparer au poids de chacune des capsules 10 en sortie de la ligne de fabrication. Cette méthode, simple à mettre en oeuvre, permet d'effectuer un contrôle précis de la capsule puisque une infime variation de poids montre que l'une des opérations précédents n'est pas conforme et que la capsule est défectueuse. Des moyens non représentés de tris permettent de séparer les capsules conformes des capsules défectueuses.Once cut, the capsule 10 undergoes a weighing control operation 39 consisting in weighing the capsule 10. Each of the preceding operations induces a very precise addition of weight, which makes it possible to know the reference mass of a capsule 10 and of compare it with the weight of each of the capsules 10 at the output of the production line. This method, simple to implement, allows for precise control of the capsule since a tiny change in weight shows that one of the previous operations is not compliant and that the capsule is defective. Unrepresented sorting means make it possible to separate the conforming capsules from the defective capsules.

Le dispositif et le procédé de l'invention permettent de fabriquer sur une seule ligne de production, une capsule de café pré-remplie à partir d'une bande de film thermoplastique.The device and the method of the invention make it possible to manufacture on a single production line, a pre-filled coffee capsule from a thermoplastic film strip.

On détaille ci-après certaines opérations.Some operations are described below.

En référence à la figure 3, on décrit les moyens de thermoformage 40 du corps 11 de la capsule 10 du dispositif de l'invention.With reference to the figure 3 the thermoforming means 40 of the body 11 of the capsule 10 of the device of the invention are described.

La bande de film thermoplastique 1 se présente sous forme de rouleau, La bande de film de thermoplastique 1 est déroulée et traverse une enceinte de préchauffage 41 dans laquelle elle est maintenue en tension au moyen de rouleaux d'entrainement 42 alternativement disposés dans la partie inférieure de l'enceinte de préchauffage 41 et dans sa partie inférieure. La température dans l'enceinte de préchauffage 41 est maintenue à 125 °C par des moyens adaptés.The thermoplastic film strip 1 is in the form of a roll. The thermoplastic film strip 1 is unwound and passes through a preheating chamber 41 in which it is held in tension by means of drive rollers 42 alternately arranged in the lower part. of the preheating chamber 41 and in its lower part. The temperature in the preheating chamber 41 is maintained at 125 ° C. by suitable means.

En sortie de l'enceinte de préchauffage 42, la bande de film thermoplastique 1 est entraînée dans une enceinte de chauffage 43 comportant un moule de chauffage 44 constitué d'une partie supérieure 45 et d'une partie inférieure 46 se faisant face en étant situées de part et d'autre de la bande de film thermoplastique 1 maintenue en tension.At the outlet of the preheating chamber 42, the thermoplastic film strip 1 is driven into a heating chamber 43 comprising a heating mold 44 consisting of an upper portion 45 and a lower portion 46 facing each other while being located on both sides of the thermoplastic film strip 1 maintained in tension.

Chacune des parties supérieure 45 et inférieure 46 du moule de chauffage comportent des zones de chauffage locales respectives 45a,46a qui sont maintenues à une température de 140 °C et sont disposées également en regard l'une de l'autre de part et d'autre de la bande de film thermoplastique 1. Les parties supérieure 45 et inférieure 46 sont actionnées en déplacement en direction et jusqu'à la bande de film thermoplastique 1, l'application des zones de chauffage local 45a et 46a sur la bande de film thermoplastique 1 permettant de chauffer la bande de film thermoplastique 1 au niveaux des zones destinées à subir l'opération suivante de mise en forme du corps 11 des capsules 10.Each of the upper 45 and lower 46 portions of the heating mold have respective local heating zones 45a, 46a which are maintained at a temperature of 140 ° C and are arranged opposite each other on the other hand. other of the thermoplastic film strip 1. The upper portions 45 and lower 46 are moved in the direction of and up to the thermoplastic film strip 1, the application of the local heating zones 45a and 46a on the thermoplastic film strip 1 for heating the thermoplastic film strip 1 at the level of the zones intended to undergo the following operation of shaping the body 11 of the capsules 10.

Après avoir subie l'étape de chauffage, la bande de film thermoplastique 1 est entraînée dans un moule de thermoformage 47 dont la partie supérieure 4 comporte un poinçon 48 dont la forme correspond à la forme souhaitée du corps 11 de la capsule 10 et la partie inférieure 5 est le négatif de la partie supérieure 4 de sorte que lorsque les parties supérieure 4 et inférieure 5 viennent enserrer la bande de film thermoplastique 1 préalablement chauffée, il en résulte la formation du corps 11 de la capsule 10.After undergoing the heating step, the thermoplastic film strip 1 is driven into a thermoforming mold 47 whose upper part 4 comprises a punch 48 whose shape corresponds to the desired shape of the body 11 of the capsule 10 and the part bottom 5 is the negative of the upper part 4 so that when the upper 4 and lower 5 parts grip the previously heated thermoplastic film strip 1, this results in the formation of the body 11 of the capsule 10.

En référence à la figure 4, l'opération de pose et de fixation de l'opercule préhensible s'effectue de la façon suivante.With reference to the figure 4 , the operation of laying and fixing the prehensible cap is carried out as follows.

Un rouleau de film 22 est déroulé par des moyens adaptés. Le film est fait d'une couche d'aluminium recouverte d'une couche de polypropylène. L'opercule préhensible 14 est réalisé par découpage au moyen d'une matrice inférieure 50 comportant des poinçons 50a dont les bords externes sont tranchants et d'une matrice supérieure 51 comportant des poinçons 53 adaptés à la configuration de des poinçons 50a de la matrice inférieure 50 de façon à venir s'opposer à la force de découpe engendrée par la matrice inférieure 51 et à former par découpe l'opercule préhensible 14 munie de sa languette de préhension 14a.A roll of film 22 is unwound by suitable means. The film is made of an aluminum layer covered with a layer of polypropylene. The prehensible cap 14 is made by cutting by means of a lower die 50 having punches 50a whose outer edges are sharp and an upper die 51 having punches 53 adapted to the configuration of punches 50a of the lower die 50 so as to come to oppose the cutting force generated by the lower die 51 and to form by cutting the prehensible cap 14 provided with its gripping tab 14a.

Les poinçons 53 de la matrice supérieure 51 forment également patte d'aspiration 53 qui vient au contact de l'opercule préhensible 14 découpé et le saisit par aspiration.The punches 53 of the upper die 51 also form a suction lug 53 which comes into contact with the cut-off prehensile cap 14 and grasps it by suction.

La matrice supérieure 51 est reliée à des moyens de transport non représentés permettant d'acheminer l'opercule préhensible 14a selon les flèches F1 depuis la zone de découpe jusqu'à une pince 55 qui maintient l'opercule préhensible 14 en place en pinçant la languette de préhension 14a.The upper die 51 is connected to unrepresented transport means for conveying the prehensible cap 14a according to the arrows F1 from the cutting zone to a clip 55 which holds the prehensible cap 14 in place by pinching the tongue grasping 14a.

La pince 55 est reliée à des moyens de transport non représentés permettant d'acheminer l'opercule préhensible 14 selon les flèches F2 jusqu'à proximité de la face externe 12a de la paroi de fond 12 de la capsule 10.The clamp 55 is connected to unrepresented transport means for conveying the prehensible cap 14 along the arrows F2 to the vicinity of the outer face 12a of the bottom wall 12 of the capsule 10.

Plus précisément, l'opercule préhensible 14 est acheminé par déplacement de la pince 55 selon les flèches F2 sous le corps 11 de la capsule au niveau de la face externe 12a de sa paroi de fond 12.More specifically, the prehensible cap 14 is conveyed by displacement of the clamp 55 according to the arrows F2 under the body 11 of the capsule at the outer face 12a of its bottom wall 12.

A ce niveau, une matrice supérieure 25a et une matrice inférieure 25b munies chacune de poinçons chauffés 25aa,25bb qui se font face de part et d'autre du corps 11 de la capsule sont actionnées en mouvement selon les flèches F3 et F4 jusqu'à contact avec la paroi de fond 12 ce qui engendre le soudage par la chaleur de l'opercule préhensible 14 sur la face externe 12a de la paroi dé fond 12 du corps de la capsule 11.At this level, an upper die 25a and a lower die 25b each provided with heated punches 25aa, 25bb which face each other on either side of the body 11 of the capsule are actuated in movement along arrows F3 and F4 up to contact with the bottom wall 12 which generates heat welding of the prehensible cap 14 on the outer face 12a of the bottom wall 12 of the body of the capsule 11.

La pince 55 est commandée pour se dessaisir de l'opercule préhensible 14 au moment approprié pour que le soudage de l'opercule préhensible 14 soit effectif.The clamp 55 is controlled to release the prehensible cap 14 at the appropriate time for the welding of the prehensible cap 14 is effective.

Le soudage par la chaleur de l'opercule préhensible 14 est rendu possible par les réactions chimiques induites combinées de l'action de la chaleur sur le thermoplastique formant la paroi de fond 12 de la capsule 10 et de l'action de la chaleur sur le polypropylène constituant la couche externe de l'opercule préhensible 14, l'aluminium étant en contact avec la face externe 12a de la paroi de fond 12. L'opercule préhensible 14 est ainsi maintenu en place solidement, sans qu'il ne soit nécessaire d'utiliser un quelconque matériau tiers tel qu'un adhésif par exemple.The heat-sealing of the prehensible cap 14 is made possible by the combined induced chemical reactions of the action of heat on the thermoplastic forming the bottom wall 12 of the capsule 10 and the action of the heat on the polypropylene constituting the outer layer of the prehensible cover 14, the aluminum being in contact with the outer face 12a of the bottom wall 12. The gripping cover 14 is thus held in place securely, without it being necessary to use any third material such as an adhesive for example.

Le contrôle du soudage est effectué par envoi d'air comprimé dans le corps de la capsule 10 et contrôle des fuites d'air au niveau de l'opercule. Les moyens effectuant ce contrôle ne sont pas représentés,The welding control is carried out by sending compressed air into the body of the capsule 10 and controls air leakage at the lid. The means performing this check are not represented,

En référence à la figure 5, le filtre 15 est amené à proximité de la capsule 10 au moyen d'un rail de guidage 57. Une patte d'aspiration 58 vient saisir le filtre 15 par aspiration et est relié à des moyens de déplacement 58a permettant de transporter le filtre saisi 15 jusqu'à proximité du corps 11 de la capsule 10. La patte d'aspiration 58 est ensuite commandée en déplacement vers la paroi de fond 12 de la capsule 10 pour déposer le filtre 15 contre la face interne 12b de cette paroi de fond 12.With reference to the figure 5 , the filter 15 is brought close to the capsule 10 by means of a guide rail 57. A suction lug 58 grasps the filter 15 by suction and is connected to displacement means 58a for transporting the seized filter. To the vicinity of the body 11 of the capsule 10. The suction lug 58 is then controlled in displacement towards the bottom wall 12 of the capsule 10 to deposit the filter 15 against the inner face 12b of this bottom wall 12 .

La fixation du filtre 15 est réalisée par un poinçon non représenté qui exerce trois pressions sur le filtre 15 en direction de la paroi de fond 12 pour maintenir le filtre 15 en force dans le fond de la capsule 10.Fixing the filter 15 is performed by a not shown punch which exerts three pressures on the filter 15 in the direction of the bottom wall 12 to maintain the filter 15 in force in the bottom of the capsule 10.

En référence à la figure 6, une fois la capsule 10 remplie de café, une bande de film thermoplastique 36 est appliquée sur la capsule 10 afin de former l'opercule principale 16. La bande de film thermoplastique 36 est maintenue en tension par des rouleaux d'entraînement 61. L'opercule principal 16 fait l'objet d'un motif particulier sur la bande de film thermoplastique 36 et il convient donc de s'assurer du centrage de la bande avant son application sur la capsule 10 afin que le motif de l'opercule principal 16 soit bien disposé en regard de l'ouverture principale 18 de la capsule 10.With reference to the figure 6 once the capsule 10 is filled with coffee, a strip of thermoplastic film 36 is applied to the capsule 10 to form the main seal 16. The thermoplastic film strip 36 is held in tension by drive rollers 61. main lid 16 is the subject of a particular pattern on the thermoplastic film strip 36 and it is therefore necessary to ensure the centering of the strip before its application on the capsule 10 so that the pattern of the main lid 16 is well disposed opposite the main opening 18 of the capsule 10.

Pour réaliser ce centrage, une lampe 62 envoie une lumière sur une zone de la bande de film thermoplastique 36 sur laquelle est réalisé un repère répétitif 63 et détecte ce repère 63 ainsi que sa position. La lampe 62 est reliée à des moyens de détection non représentés d'un décalage du repère 63 par rapport au déplacement de la capsule 10 sur la ligne permettant d'appréhender un décalage qui aurait pour conséquence que le motif formant l'opercule principal 16 ne serait pas appliqué en regard de l'ouverture principale 18 de la capsule. Dans ce cas, deux plaques d'étirements 64a, 64b comportant des moyens de prise non visibles sur le film thermoplastique sont commandées de façon à étirer la bande de film thermoplastique pour rétablir le centrage. Cette opération permet d'éviter un arrêt de la ligne dans le cas ou il y aurait un décentrage qui serait observé.To perform this centering, a lamp 62 sends a light to an area of the thermoplastic film strip 36 on which a repetitive mark 63 is made and detects this mark 63 as well as its position. The lamp 62 is connected to detection means that are not represented by an offset of the mark 63 with respect to the displacement of the capsule 10 on the line making it possible to apprehend an offset which would have the consequence that the pattern forming the main seal 16 would not be applied next to the main opening 18 of the capsule. In this case, two stretching plates 64a, 64b having non-visible engagement means on the thermoplastic film are controlled to stretch the thermoplastic film web to restore centering. This operation avoids a stop of the line in the case where there would be a decentering that would be observed.

L'application de la bande de film thermoplastique 36 sur la capsule 10 est réalisée par un rouleau d'application 66 disposé contre la capsule 10 après les plaques d'étirements 64a,64b et sous lequel défile le film thermoplastique 36.The application of the thermoplastic film strip 36 to the capsule 10 is performed by an applicator roll 66 disposed against the capsule 10 after the stretching plates 64a, 64b and under which the thermoplastic film 36 passes.

Puis, la bande de film thermoplastique 36 est soudée par la chaleur sur la face externe 17a de la collerette 17 de la capsule 10. Pour ce faire, un moule de soudage 67 est constitué d'une partie supérieure 68 et d'une partie inférieure 69 se faisant face en étant situées de part et d'autre de la bande de film thermoplastique 1.Then, the thermoplastic film strip 36 is heat-welded to the outer face 17a of the flange 17 of the cap 10. To do this, a welding mold 67 consists of an upper portion 68 and a lower portion 69 facing each other by being located on both sides of the thermoplastic film strip 1.

Chacune des parties supérieure 68 et inférieure 69 du moule de chauffage comportent des zones de chauffage locales respectives 68a,69a qui sont maintenues à une température permettant la soudure et qui sont disposées également en regard l'une de l'autre de part et d'autre de la capsule 10. Les parties supérieure 68 et inférieure 69 sont actionnées en déplacement en direction et jusqu'à la capsule 10, l'application des zones de chauffage local 68a 69a au niveau de la collerette 17 permettant de souder la bande de film thermoplastique 36 sur la face externe 17a de la collerette 17.Each of the upper and lower portions 69 of the heating mold have respective local heating zones 68a, 69a which are held at a temperature suitable for welding and which are arranged opposite each other on the other hand. other of the capsule 10. The upper 68 and lower 69 parts are actuated in displacement towards and up to the capsule 10, the application of the local heating zones 68a 69a at the collar 17 for welding the thermoplastic film strip 36 on the outer face 17a of the flange 17.

En référence à la figure 7, après avoir été découpée, la capsule 10 est entraînée dans une gouttière 70 en pente descendante qui entraîne elle-même la capsule 10 jusqu'à un tapis roulant 71 fait d'une première partie 72 et d'une deuxième partie 73. La vitesse d'entraînement de la première partie 72 du tapis roulant 71 est supérieure à la vitesse d'entraînement de la deuxième partie 73 du tapis roulant 71 de sorte qu'un temps d'arrêt est marqué par la capsule 10 à son passage sur la deuxième partie 73 du tapis roulant. Ce temps d'arrêt est matérialisé par la présence d'un système de pesage 74 de la capsule 10.With reference to the figure 7 , after being cut, the capsule 10 is driven into a downwardly sloping groove 70 which itself drives the capsule 10 to a treadmill 71 made of a first part 72 and a second part 73. The speed for driving the first portion 72 of the treadmill 71 is greater than the driving speed of the second portion 73 of the treadmill 71 so that a stopping time is marked by the capsule 10 when it passes over the second part 73 of the treadmill. This downtime is materialized by the presence of a weighing system 74 of the capsule 10.

Le poids de chaque capsule 10 est comparé à un poids de référence. Une infime variation de poids montre que l'une des opérations précédentes n'est pas conforme et que la capsule est défectueuse. Dans ce cas, la capsule 10 est évacuée dans un bac de déchets non représenté. Dans le cas ou la capsule 10 est conforme, la capsule 10 est évacuée dans un bac de réception 75. Des moyens non représentés de tris permettent de séparer les capsules conformes des capsules défectueuses.The weight of each capsule 10 is compared to a reference weight. A slight variation in weight shows that one of the previous operations is not compliant and that the capsule is defective. In this case, the capsule 10 is discharged into a waste tank not shown. In the case where the capsule 10 is compliant, the capsule 10 is discharged into a receiving tray 75. Unrepresented sorting means can separate the capsules from the defective capsules capsules.

Claims (15)

Capsule d'infusion pré-remplie, caractérisée en ce qu'elle comprend un corps (11) réalisé en une seule pièce en un matériau thermoplastique s'étendant selon un axe principal (XX') et comportant une collerette faisant saille (17) qui délimite une ouverture principale (18) et qui se prolonge par une paroi latérale coaxiale se terminant par une paroi de fond (12) comportant un perçage (13), le diamètre moyen (D) du corps (11) de la capsule (10) pris au niveau de l'ouverture centrale (18) étant supérieur au diamètre moyen (d) pris au niveau de la paroi de fond (12), en ce qu'elle comporte un opercule principal (16) imperméable aux liquides, fixé sur la face supérieure (17a) de la collerette (17) et obturant hermétiquement l'ouverture principale (18) de la capsule (10), en ce qu'elle comporte un opercule préhensible (14) imperméable aux liquides, fixé sur la face externe (12a) de la paroi de fond (12) et obturant le perçage (13), le dit opercule préhensible (14) comportant des moyens de préhension (14a) lui permettant d'être détaché de la paroi de fond (12) en découvrant le perçage (13), et en ce qu'elle comporte un filtre (15) perméable aux liquides et fixé dans le corps (11) de la capsule (10) en appui contre la face interne (12b) de la paroi de fond (12) de la dite capsule (10) obligeant tout liquide s'écoulant à travers le perçage (13) depuis l'intérieur de la capsule (10) à traverser le filtre (15).Pre-filled infusion cap, characterized in that it comprises a body (11) made in one piece of a thermoplastic material extending along a main axis (XX ') and having a flanging collar (17) which defines a main opening (18) and which is extended by a coaxial side wall ending in a bottom wall (12) having a bore (13), the average diameter (D) of the body (11) of the capsule (10) taken at the level of the central opening (18) being greater than the average diameter (d) taken at the bottom wall (12), in that it comprises a main cover (16) impermeable to liquids, fixed on the upper face (17a) of the flange (17) and hermetically closing the main opening (18) of the capsule (10), in that it comprises a liquid-impervious prehensible cap (14) fixed on the outer face ( 12a) of the bottom wall (12) and closing the bore (13), said gripping cover (14) c omportant gripping means (14a) allowing it to be detached from the bottom wall (12) by discovering the bore (13), and in that it comprises a filter (15) permeable to liquids and fixed in the body (11) of the capsule (10) bearing against the inner face (12b) of the bottom wall (12) of said capsule (10) forcing any liquid flowing through the bore (13) from the inside from the capsule (10) through the filter (15). Procédé de fabrication d'une capsule selon la revendication 1, caractérisé en ce qu'il comprend les étapes de : - fabrication du corps (11) de la capsule (10) par thermoformage à partir d'une bande de film thermoplastique (1). - perçage de la paroi de fond (12), - pose et fixation de l'opercule préhensible (14) contre la face externe (12a) de la paroi de fond (12), - pose et fixation du filtre (15) contre la, face interne (12b) de la paroi de fond (12) de la capsule (10), - remplissage de la capsule (10) par une infusion (19), - pose et fixation de l'opercule principal (16) contre la face externe (17a) de la collerette (17), et - découpage de la capsule (10). A method of manufacturing a capsule according to claim 1, characterized in that it comprises the steps of: - Manufacture of the body (11) of the capsule (10) by thermoforming from a thermoplastic film strip (1). drilling of the bottom wall (12), placing and fixing the prehensible cap (14) against the outer face (12a) of the bottom wall (12), placing and fixing the filter (15) against the inner face (12b) of the bottom wall (12) of the capsule (10), filling the capsule (10) with an infusion (19), - laying and fixing the main cover (16) against the outer face (17a) of the flange (17), and - cutting of the capsule (10). Procédé selon la revendication 2, caractérisé en ce que l'étape de fabrication du corps de la capsule comprend les étapes de : - préchauffage de la bande de thermoplastique (1), - chauffage de la bande de thermoplastique (1) au niveau des zones destinées à être thermoformées, - mise en forme du corps (11) de la capsule (10) par thermoformage. Process according to claim 2, characterized in that the step of manufacturing the body of the capsule comprises the steps of: preheating the thermoplastic strip (1), heating the thermoplastic strip (1) at the zones intended to be thermoformed, - Shaping the body (11) of the capsule (10) by thermoforming. Procédé selon l'une quelconque des revendications 2 et 3, caractérisé en ce que l'étape de pose et de fixation de l'opercule préhensible (14) comprend les étapes de : - découpe de l'opercule préhensible (14) a partir d'une bande de film (22) faite d'une couche de métal recouverte d'un film thermoplastique, - transport de l'opercule préhensible (14) découpé jusqu'à proximité de la face externe (12a) de la paroi de fond (12) de la capsule (10), - soudage thermique de l'opercule préhensible (14) sur la face externe (12a) de la paroi de fond (12) de la capsule (10). Method according to any one of claims 2 and 3, characterized in that the step of laying and fixing the prehensible cap (14) comprises the steps of: - cutting the prehensible cap (14) from a film strip (22) made of a metal layer covered with a thermoplastic film, transporting the gripping cover (14) cut to near the outer face (12a) of the bottom wall (12) of the capsule (10), - Thermal welding of the prehensible cap (14) on the outer face (12a) of the bottom wall (12) of the capsule (10). Procédé selon l'une quelconque des revendications 2 à 4, caractérisé en ce que l'étape de pose et de fixation du filtre (15) comprend les étapes de : - transport du filtre (15) à proximité de la capsule (10). - préhension du filtre par aspiration (15) - dépose du filtre contre la face interne (12b) de la paroi de fond (12) de la capsule (10), - fixation du filtre (15) contre la face interne (12b) de la paroi de fond (12) de la capsule (10). Process according to any one of Claims 2 to 4, characterized in that the step of laying and fixing the filter (15) comprises the steps of: - Transport of the filter (15) near the capsule (10). - gripping the suction filter (15) depositing the filter against the internal face (12b) of the bottom wall (12) of the capsule (10), - Fixing the filter (15) against the inner face (12b) of the bottom wall (12) of the capsule (10). Procédé selon l'une quelconque des revendications 2 à 5, caractérisé en ce que l'étape de remplissage de la capsule (10) est réalisée par translation rotative d'une vis sans fin supportant l'infusion (31) vers et jusqu'au corps (11) de la capsule (10).Process according to any one of Claims 2 to 5, characterized in that the step of filling the capsule (10) is carried out by rotary translation of a worm supporting the infusion (31) to and up to body (11) of the capsule (10). Procédé selon l'une quelconque des revendications 2 à 6, caractérisé en ce que la pose et la fixation de l'opercule principal (16) comprend les étapes de ; - application d'une bande de film thermoplastique (36) sur la face externe (17a) de la collerette (17) de la capsule (10), - soudage thermique de la bande de film thermoplastique sur la face externe (17a) de la collerette (17) de la capsule (10). Method according to any one of claims 2 to 6, characterized in that the laying and fixing of the main lid (16) comprises the steps of; applying a strip of thermoplastic film (36) to the outer face (17a) of the collar (17) of the capsule (10), - Thermal welding of the thermoplastic film strip on the outer face (17a) of the flange (17) of the capsule (10). Procédé selon la revendication 7, caractérisé en ce que l'opercule principal (16) présente un motif et en ce que préalablement à son application, la bande de film thermoplastique (36) est centrée de façon que les motifs soient disposés en regard de l'ouverture principale (18) de la capsule (10).Method according to claim 7, characterized in that the main seal (16) has a pattern and in that prior to its application, the thermoplastic film strip (36) is centered so that the patterns are arranged opposite the main opening (18) of the capsule (10). Dispositif pour mettre en oeuvre le procédé de fabrication d'une capsule selon l'une quelconque des revendications 2 à 8, caractérisé en ce qu'il comprend au moins : - des moyens de thermoformage (41,43,47) du corps de la capsule (10) à partir d'une bande de film thermoplastique (1), - des moyens de perçage (7,8,9) de la paroi de fond (12) de la capsule (10), - des moyens de pose et de fixation (53,54,55,56,25a,25b) de l'opercule préhensible (14) contre la face externe (17a) de la paroi de fond (17) de la capsule (10), - des moyens de pose et de fixation (57,58,59) du filtre (15) contre la face interne (12b) de la paroi de fond (12) de la capsule (10), - des moyens de remplissage (29,30,31) de la capsule(10), - des moyens de pose et de fixation (64a,64b,66,67) de l'opercule principal (16) contre la face externe (17a) de la collerette (17), et - des moyens de découpage (38a,38b) de la capsule (10). Device for implementing the method of manufacturing a capsule according to any one of claims 2 to 8, characterized in that it comprises at least: thermoforming means (41,43,47) of the body of the capsule (10) from a thermoplastic film strip (1), - Drilling means (7,8,9) of the bottom wall (12) of the capsule (10), - Laying and fixing means (53,54,55,56,25a, 25b) of the prehensible cover (14) against the outer face (17a) of the bottom wall (17) of the capsule (10) , means for placing and fixing (57,58,59) the filter (15) against the internal face (12b) of the bottom wall (12) of the capsule (10), - Filling means (29,30,31) of the capsule (10), - laying means and fixing (64a, 64b, 66,67) of the main cover (16) against the outer face (17a) of the flange (17), and - Cutting means (38a, 38b) of the capsule (10). Dispositif selon la revendication 9, caractérisé en ce que les moyens de pose et de fixation de l'opercule préhensible (14) contre la face externe (12b) de la paroi de fond (12) de la capsule (10) comprennent des moyens de découpe (50,51) de l'opercule préhensible (14) sur une bande de film (22) faite d'une couche de métal recouverte d'un film thermoplastique, des moyens de transport (54,55,56) de l'opercule préhensible (14) depuis la zone de découpe de l'opercule préhensible (14) jusqu'au niveau de la face externe (12a) de la paroi de fond (12) de la capsule (10) et des moyens de thermosoudage (25a,25b) de l'opercule préhensible (14) sur la face externe (12a) de la paroi de fond (12) de la capsule (10).Device according to claim 9, characterized in that the means for placing and fixing the gripping cover (14) against the outer face (12b) of the bottom wall (12) of the capsule (10) comprise means for cutting (50,51) the gripping cover (14) on a film strip (22) made of a layer of metal covered with a thermoplastic film, means of transport (54,55,56) of the gripping cover (14) from the cutting area of the gripping cover (14) to the level of the outer face (12a) of the bottom wall (12) of the capsule (10) and heat-sealing means (25a, 25b) of the prehensible cap (14) on the outer face (12a) of the bottom wall (12) of the capsule (10). Dispositif selon la revendication 10, caractérisé en ce que les moyens de préhension (53) de l'opercule préhensible (14) comprennent une patte d'aspiration (53), en ce que les moyens de transport (54,56) de l'opercule préhensible (14) depuis la zone de découpe de l'opercule préhensible (14) jusqu'au niveau de la face externe (12a) de la paroi de fond (12) de la capsule (10) comprennent des moyens de transport (54) de l'opercule préhensible aspiré (14) jusqu'à une pince (55) maintenant l'opercule préhensible (14) en place et des moyens de transport (56) de la dite pince (55) jusqu'à proximité de la face externe (12a) de la paroi de fond (12) de la capsule (10), et en ce que les moyens de thermosoudage (25a,25b) comprennent deux matrices chauffantes (25a,25b) se faisant face en étant disposées de part et d'autre de la capsule (10) et susceptibles d'être actionnées en translation jusqu'à contact avec la paroi de fond (12) respectivement au niveau de sa face externe (12a) et de sa face interne (12b).Device according to claim 10, characterized in that the gripping means (53) of the gripping cover (14) comprise a suction lug (53), in that the means of transport (54, 56) of the prehensile cover (14) from the cutting area of the prehensile cover (14) to the level of the outer face (12a) of the bottom wall (12) of the capsule (10) comprise transport means (54) ) of the grasped operculum (14) to a clamp (55) holding the prehensible cap (14) in place and means of transport (56) of said clamp (55) to near the face external (12a) of the bottom wall (12) of the capsule (10), and in that the heat-sealing means (25a, 25b) comprise two heating matrices (25a, 25b) facing each other by being arranged on one side and other of the capsule (10) and capable of being actuated in translation until contact with the bottom wall (12) respectively at its outer face (12a) and its inner face (12b). Dispositif selon l'une quelconque des revendications 9 à 11, caractérisé en ce que les moyens de pose et de fixation du filtre (57,58,59) contre la face interne (12b) de la paroi de fond (12) de la capsule (10) comprennent des moyens de transport (57) du filtre (15) à proximité de la capsule (10), des moyens de préhension du filtre (58) ainsi transporté, des moyens de dépose du filtre (58) contre la face interne (12b) de la paroi de fond (12) et des moyens de fixation (59) du filtre (15) ainsi déposé.Device according to any one of claims 9 to 11, characterized in that the means for laying and fixing the filter (57,58,59) against the inner face (12b) of the bottom wall (12) of the capsule (10) comprise means of transport (57) of the filter (15) in the vicinity of the capsule (10), means for gripping the filter (58) thus conveyed, means for depositing the filter (58) against the internal face (12b) of the bottom wall (12) and fixing means (59) of the filter (15) thus deposited. Dispositif selon l'une quelconque des revendications 9 à 12, caractérisé en ce que les moyens de remplissage (29,30,31) de la capsule (10) comprennent une cuve (29) remplie de l'infusion (19) dont la partie inférieure présente une buse de remplissage (30) à l'intérieure de laquelle une vis sans fin (31) reliée à la cuve (29) forme distributeur d'infusion dans la capsule (10) par translation de cette vis sans fin (31) transportant l'infusion vers et dans le corps (11) de la capsule (10).Device according to any one of claims 9 to 12, characterized in that the filling means (29,30,31) of the capsule (10) comprises a tank (29) filled with the infusion (19), the part of which lower part has a filling nozzle (30) inside which an endless screw (31) connected to the tank (29) forms an infusion dispenser in the capsule (10) by translation of this worm (31) carrying the infusion to and in the body (11) of the capsule (10). Dispositif selon l'une quelconque des revendications 9 à 13, caractérisé en ce que les moyens de pose et de fixation (66,67) de l'opercule central (16) contre la face externe (17a) de la collerette (17) comprennent des moyens d'application (66) d'une bande de film thermoplastique (36) sur la face externe (17a) de la collerette (17) de la capsule (10) et des moyens de soudages thermiques (67) de cette bande de film thermoplastique (1) sur la face externe (17a) de la collerette (17) de la capsule (10).Device according to any one of claims 9 to 13, characterized in that the laying means and fixing (66,67) of the central cover (16) against the outer face (17a) of the flange (17) comprise means (66) for applying a thermoplastic film strip (36) to the outer face (17a) of the collar (17) of the capsule (10) and thermal welding means (67) of this strip of thermoplastic film (1) on the outer face (17a) of the flange (17) of the capsule (10). Dispositif selon la revendication 14, caractérisé en ce que l'opercule principal (16) présente un motif et en ce que le dispositif comprend en outre des moyens de centrage (62,63,64a,64b) de la bande de film thermoplastique (36) permettant aux motifs de l'opercule principal (16) d'être disposés en regard de l'ouverture principale (18) de la capsule (10).Device according to claim 14, characterized in that the main cover (16) has a pattern and in that the device further comprises centering means (62, 63, 64a, 64b) of the thermoplastic film strip (36). ) allowing the patterns of the main cover (16) to be arranged opposite the main opening (18) of the capsule (10).
EP10007827A 2010-07-28 2010-07-28 Pre-filled infusion capsule, associated manufacturing method and device Withdrawn EP2412645A1 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP10007827A EP2412645A1 (en) 2010-07-28 2010-07-28 Pre-filled infusion capsule, associated manufacturing method and device

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP10007827A EP2412645A1 (en) 2010-07-28 2010-07-28 Pre-filled infusion capsule, associated manufacturing method and device

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP2412645A1 true EP2412645A1 (en) 2012-02-01

Family

ID=43032921

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP10007827A Withdrawn EP2412645A1 (en) 2010-07-28 2010-07-28 Pre-filled infusion capsule, associated manufacturing method and device

Country Status (1)

Country Link
EP (1) EP2412645A1 (en)

Cited By (26)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2013134885A1 (en) * 2012-03-15 2013-09-19 Rychiger Ag Apparatus and method for manufacturing filters and inserting the filters into single dose capsules for preparing beverages
WO2014049143A1 (en) * 2012-09-27 2014-04-03 K-Fee System Gmbh Single serve capsule comprising a filter element connected thereto by sealing
WO2014090567A1 (en) * 2012-12-14 2014-06-19 K-Fee System Gmbh Portion capsule and method for producing a beverage by means of a portion capsule
WO2014091403A1 (en) * 2012-12-14 2014-06-19 Psr Profitable Strategic Redeployment Sàrl Capsule for preparing a drink
WO2014128205A1 (en) * 2013-02-20 2014-08-28 K-Fee System Gmbh Single serve capsule and system
ITBO20130406A1 (en) * 2013-07-26 2015-01-27 P A As DEVICE AND ASSEMBLY METHOD OF CAPSULES FOR DRINKING DRINKS.
CN104321265A (en) * 2012-03-26 2015-01-28 萨龙股份公司 Capsule for beverage and method for manufacturing said capsule
US20150056341A1 (en) * 2013-08-20 2015-02-26 2266170 Ontario Inc. Capsule containing a dosing agent and system and process for making same
ITMO20130296A1 (en) * 2013-10-17 2015-04-18 Sarong Spa CAPPULE FOR BEVERAGES
ITMO20130297A1 (en) * 2013-10-17 2015-04-18 Sarong Spa CAPPULE FOR BEVERAGES
WO2016001883A1 (en) * 2014-07-04 2016-01-07 Sarong S.P.A. Machine and method for making capsules for beverages
WO2016075604A1 (en) * 2014-11-11 2016-05-19 Sarong S.P.A. Machine and method for packaging containers for beverage and package obtained thereby
US9399547B2 (en) 2012-12-27 2016-07-26 Sarong Societa' Per Azioni Capsule for beverages
US9493297B2 (en) 2012-12-27 2016-11-15 Sarong Societa' Per Azioni Capsule for beverages
ITUB20151968A1 (en) * 2015-07-06 2017-01-06 Libero Facchini METHOD TO PRODUCE A CAPSULE FOR THE PREPARATION OF A BEVERAGE
US10343838B2 (en) 2012-06-18 2019-07-09 K-Fee System Gmbh Portion capsule and use of same for producing a beverage
US10669093B2 (en) 2015-02-27 2020-06-02 K-Fee System Gmbh Single serve capsule comprising a filter element connected thereto by sealing
US10737876B2 (en) 2015-07-13 2020-08-11 K-Fee System Gmbh Filter element having a cut-out
US10858176B2 (en) 2010-07-22 2020-12-08 K-Fee System Gmbh Portion capsule having an identifier
WO2021123034A1 (en) * 2019-12-20 2021-06-24 Rychiger Ag Device and method for cutting circular filter elements from a strip material
US11045035B2 (en) 2015-09-18 2021-06-29 K-Fee System Gmbh Adapter for a single serve capsule
US11084650B2 (en) 2015-06-10 2021-08-10 K-Fee System Gmbh Portion capsule with a three-ply nonwoven fabric
US20210261280A1 (en) * 2018-07-27 2021-08-26 K-Fee System Gmbh Method for producing a portion capsule for preparing a beverage in a beverage production machine, portion capsule, and method for producing a beverage with a beverage production machine and a portion capsule
EP4190727A1 (en) * 2021-12-02 2023-06-07 SARG S.r.l. Device for moving containers
US20250171178A1 (en) * 2022-03-03 2025-05-29 Societe Des Produits Nestle S.A. Method for manufacturing a compostable pod
US12459728B2 (en) 2018-11-22 2025-11-04 Gcs German Capsule Solution Gmbh Seal for a single serve capsule

Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP0468079A1 (en) * 1990-07-27 1992-01-29 Societe Des Produits Nestle S.A. Closed cartridge for making a beverage, process and device for manufacturing such a cartridge
EP0521510A1 (en) * 1991-07-05 1993-01-07 Societe Des Produits Nestle S.A. Rigid coffee cartridge and method of manufacturing the same
WO2006008243A1 (en) * 2004-07-21 2006-01-26 Ariete S.P.A. Disposable filter cartridge for espresso coffee machines
EP1997748A1 (en) * 2007-06-01 2008-12-03 Marco Reati Precharged ground coffee capsule, method for its production and apparatus for implementing said method

Patent Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP0468079A1 (en) * 1990-07-27 1992-01-29 Societe Des Produits Nestle S.A. Closed cartridge for making a beverage, process and device for manufacturing such a cartridge
EP0521510A1 (en) * 1991-07-05 1993-01-07 Societe Des Produits Nestle S.A. Rigid coffee cartridge and method of manufacturing the same
WO2006008243A1 (en) * 2004-07-21 2006-01-26 Ariete S.P.A. Disposable filter cartridge for espresso coffee machines
EP1997748A1 (en) * 2007-06-01 2008-12-03 Marco Reati Precharged ground coffee capsule, method for its production and apparatus for implementing said method

Cited By (63)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US11465829B2 (en) 2010-07-22 2022-10-11 K-Fee System Gmbh Portion capsule having an identifier
US11919703B2 (en) 2010-07-22 2024-03-05 K-Fee System Gmbh Portion capsule having an identifier
US20210086986A1 (en) 2010-07-22 2021-03-25 K-Fee System Gmbh Portion capsule having an identifier
US11465830B2 (en) 2010-07-22 2022-10-11 K-Fee System Gmbh Portion capsule having an identifier
US10858177B2 (en) 2010-07-22 2020-12-08 K-Fee System Gmbh Portion capsule having an identifier
US10858176B2 (en) 2010-07-22 2020-12-08 K-Fee System Gmbh Portion capsule having an identifier
US11548722B2 (en) 2010-07-22 2023-01-10 K-Fee System Gmbh Portion capsule having an identifier
US11254491B2 (en) 2010-07-22 2022-02-22 K-Fee System Gmbh Portion capsule having an identifier
US11230430B2 (en) 2010-07-22 2022-01-25 K-Fee System Gmbh Portion capsule having an identifier
US11554910B2 (en) 2010-07-22 2023-01-17 K-Fee System Gmbh Portion capsule having an identifier
US10870531B2 (en) 2010-07-22 2020-12-22 K-Fee System Gmbh Portion capsule having an identifier
US11820586B2 (en) 2010-07-22 2023-11-21 K-Fee System Gmbh Portion capsule having an identifier
US10994923B2 (en) 2010-07-22 2021-05-04 K-Fee System Gmbh Portion capsule having an identifier
US11542094B2 (en) 2010-07-22 2023-01-03 K-Fee System Gmbh Portion capsule having an identifier
US11667465B2 (en) 2010-07-22 2023-06-06 K-Fee System Gmbh Portion capsule having an identifier
WO2013134885A1 (en) * 2012-03-15 2013-09-19 Rychiger Ag Apparatus and method for manufacturing filters and inserting the filters into single dose capsules for preparing beverages
US9630732B2 (en) 2012-03-15 2017-04-25 Rychiger Ag Apparatus and method for manufacturing filters and inserting the filters into single dose capsules for preparing beverages
CN104321265B (en) * 2012-03-26 2018-07-03 萨龙股份公司 For the method for the capsule and the manufacture capsule of beverage
CN104321265A (en) * 2012-03-26 2015-01-28 萨龙股份公司 Capsule for beverage and method for manufacturing said capsule
US10343838B2 (en) 2012-06-18 2019-07-09 K-Fee System Gmbh Portion capsule and use of same for producing a beverage
US12151876B2 (en) 2012-06-18 2024-11-26 K-Fee System Gmbh Methods of making and using a portion capsule
US11312567B2 (en) 2012-06-18 2022-04-26 K-Fee System Gmbh Portion and method for producing a beverage by means of a portion capsule
US11702276B2 (en) 2012-06-18 2023-07-18 K-Fee System Gmbh Portion capsule for preparing a beverage
WO2014049143A1 (en) * 2012-09-27 2014-04-03 K-Fee System Gmbh Single serve capsule comprising a filter element connected thereto by sealing
US9969546B2 (en) 2012-09-27 2018-05-15 K-Fee System Gmbh Single serve capsule comprising a filter element connected thereto by sealing
WO2014090567A1 (en) * 2012-12-14 2014-06-19 K-Fee System Gmbh Portion capsule and method for producing a beverage by means of a portion capsule
WO2014091403A1 (en) * 2012-12-14 2014-06-19 Psr Profitable Strategic Redeployment Sàrl Capsule for preparing a drink
CN105008247A (en) * 2012-12-14 2015-10-28 Psr（有利的战略性再部署）责任有限公司 Capsule for preparing drink
US10472165B2 (en) 2012-12-14 2019-11-12 K-Fee System Gmbh Portion capsule and method for producing a beverage by means of a portion capsule
US9771211B2 (en) 2012-12-27 2017-09-26 Sarong Societa' Per Azioni Capsule for beverages
US9493297B2 (en) 2012-12-27 2016-11-15 Sarong Societa' Per Azioni Capsule for beverages
US9771210B2 (en) 2012-12-27 2017-09-26 Sarong Societa' Per Azioni Capsule for beverages
US9399547B2 (en) 2012-12-27 2016-07-26 Sarong Societa' Per Azioni Capsule for beverages
WO2014128205A1 (en) * 2013-02-20 2014-08-28 K-Fee System Gmbh Single serve capsule and system
WO2015011682A1 (en) * 2013-07-26 2015-01-29 Azionaria Costruzioni Macchine Automatiche A.C.M.A. S.P.A. Device and method for assembling capsules for extracting beverages.
ITBO20130406A1 (en) * 2013-07-26 2015-01-27 P A As DEVICE AND ASSEMBLY METHOD OF CAPSULES FOR DRINKING DRINKS.
US20150056341A1 (en) * 2013-08-20 2015-02-26 2266170 Ontario Inc. Capsule containing a dosing agent and system and process for making same
US10351277B2 (en) * 2013-08-20 2019-07-16 2266170 Ontario Inc. Process for making a capsule containing a dosing agent
US9428329B2 (en) * 2013-08-20 2016-08-30 2266170 Ontario Inc. System for making capsule containing a dosing agent
KR20160074497A (en) * 2013-10-17 2016-06-28 사롱 소시에타＇ 퍼 아지오니 Capsule for beverages
WO2015056202A1 (en) * 2013-10-17 2015-04-23 Sarong Societa' Per Azioni Capsule for beverages
ITMO20130296A1 (en) * 2013-10-17 2015-04-18 Sarong Spa CAPPULE FOR BEVERAGES
ITMO20130297A1 (en) * 2013-10-17 2015-04-18 Sarong Spa CAPPULE FOR BEVERAGES
KR102240605B1 (en) 2013-10-17 2021-04-16 사롱 소시에타＇ 퍼 아지오니 Capsule for beverages
CN106660646B (en) * 2014-07-04 2019-08-30 萨龙股份公司 Machine and method for making beverage capsules
WO2016001883A1 (en) * 2014-07-04 2016-01-07 Sarong S.P.A. Machine and method for making capsules for beverages
US10472106B2 (en) 2014-07-04 2019-11-12 Sarong S.P.A. Machine and method for making capsules for beverages
CN106660646A (en) * 2014-07-04 2017-05-10 萨龙股份公司 Machine and method for making capsules for beverages
WO2016075604A1 (en) * 2014-11-11 2016-05-19 Sarong S.P.A. Machine and method for packaging containers for beverage and package obtained thereby
US10669093B2 (en) 2015-02-27 2020-06-02 K-Fee System Gmbh Single serve capsule comprising a filter element connected thereto by sealing
US11084650B2 (en) 2015-06-10 2021-08-10 K-Fee System Gmbh Portion capsule with a three-ply nonwoven fabric
ITUB20151968A1 (en) * 2015-07-06 2017-01-06 Libero Facchini METHOD TO PRODUCE A CAPSULE FOR THE PREPARATION OF A BEVERAGE
WO2017006230A1 (en) * 2015-07-06 2017-01-12 Libero Facchini Method for producing a capsule for preparation of a drink
US11498750B2 (en) 2015-07-13 2022-11-15 Gcs German Capsule Solution Gmbh Filter element having a cut-out
US10737876B2 (en) 2015-07-13 2020-08-11 K-Fee System Gmbh Filter element having a cut-out
US11045035B2 (en) 2015-09-18 2021-06-29 K-Fee System Gmbh Adapter for a single serve capsule
US20210261280A1 (en) * 2018-07-27 2021-08-26 K-Fee System Gmbh Method for producing a portion capsule for preparing a beverage in a beverage production machine, portion capsule, and method for producing a beverage with a beverage production machine and a portion capsule
US12227323B2 (en) * 2018-07-27 2025-02-18 Gcs German Capsule Solution Gmbh Method for producing a portion capsule
US12459728B2 (en) 2018-11-22 2025-11-04 Gcs German Capsule Solution Gmbh Seal for a single serve capsule
WO2021123034A1 (en) * 2019-12-20 2021-06-24 Rychiger Ag Device and method for cutting circular filter elements from a strip material
CH716982A1 (en) * 2019-12-20 2021-06-30 Rychiger Ag Apparatus and method for cutting circular filter elements from a strip of material.
EP4190727A1 (en) * 2021-12-02 2023-06-07 SARG S.r.l. Device for moving containers
US20250171178A1 (en) * 2022-03-03 2025-05-29 Societe Des Produits Nestle S.A. Method for manufacturing a compostable pod

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
EP2412645A1 (en) Pre-filled infusion capsule, associated manufacturing method and device
EP0652721B1 (en) Extraction process from closed flexible bags and device for same
EP2484605A1 (en) Pre-filled infusion capsule, manufacturing method, associated device and adapted infusion chamber
EP0468079B1 (en) Closed cartridge for making a beverage, process and device for manufacturing such a cartridge
FR2766123A1 (en) INSTALLATION AND METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING CONTAINERS BY THERMOFORMING
FR2545453A1 (en) PACKAGING AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURING
CA2430159C (en) Method for packing wine or a similar beverage, products obtained using said method and device for carrying out the method
FR2530123A1 (en) PROCESS AND APPARATUS FOR PREPARING BEVERAGE
CN105109789B (en) A kind of packaging can for tea and preparation method thereof
CN107428109B (en) Device and method for filling sack-type packaging
EP0284529A1 (en) Packaging of products in a transparent film, process for the production of this package and device for carrying out the process
CA3033432A1 (en) Method and installation for production of compresses having a cooling effect, and compresses obtained in sterile packaging
WO2022029040A1 (en) Device for welding a pouch
FR2784654A1 (en) PROCESS AND DEVICE FOR PACKAGING PRODUCTS AND CORRESPONDING PACKAGING CONTAINERS
FR2601330A1 (en) MACHINE FOR CLOSING A TRAY OR OTHER PACKAGING CONTAINER BY WELDING A THERMO-PLASTIC FILM ON THE EDGES OF SUCH A CONTAINER
FR2622171A1 (en) METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PACKAGING A FOOD PRODUCT OR OTHERWISE IN A PRESENTATION TRAY
EP0062571B1 (en) Process and device for piercing the lid of a recipient, and manufacturing appliance for the device
EP2238037B1 (en) Method for packaging a pasty product in an easily opened, sealed packaging made of plastic material
FR2627163A1 (en) OPENABLE, TAPPABLE BACKGROUND CLOSURE, FOR PACKAGING, PROVIDED WITH AN ANTISOUDAGE RIB
FR2925465A1 (en) FLEXIBLE PACKAGING FOR FOOD PRODUCT FLUID.
FR2565552A1 (en) Method and apparatus for packaging certain products in trays or similar containers
WO2000059802A1 (en) Flexible pouch for a beverage, method and device for the production of said receptacle
EP2394809A1 (en) Packaging machine for forming envelopes
WO2000043268A1 (en) Method and installation for producing and continuously filling flexible receptacles
EP3046753B1 (en) Device for producing an airless packaging

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: A1

Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO SE SI SK SM TR

AX Request for extension of the european patent

Extension state: BA ME RS

PUAI Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: THE APPLICATION IS DEEMED TO BE WITHDRAWN

18D Application deemed to be withdrawn

Effective date: 20120802