CAPSULE AND PROCESS FOR MAKING THE SAME

Abstract

A capsule (1) for producing beverages including at least one container (2) of paper material exhibiting: a base (3), a lateral wall (4) transversally emerging from the base (3) to define a holding cavity (5) exhibiting, oppositely to the base (3), an opening of the container (2), an edge portion (6) placed at the container (2) opening and transversally emerging from the lateral wall (4) away from the holding cavity (5). The container (2) is made from a paper sheet extending between a first and second prevalent development surfaces (2a, 2b) adapted to define respectively at least partially the inner and outer surfaces of the container (2). The lateral wall (4) includes pleats (27) defining overlapping areas of paper material, and wherein said first and second prevalent development surfaces (2a, 2b) exhibit overlapping areas wherein portions of the same surface are in contact with each other, a plurality of portions of the same first and/or second prevalent development surfaces being stably constrained to each other.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is a capsule for producing a beverage, particularly coffee, and a process for making the same.

BACKGROUND

As it is known, to date, technical solutions are marketed and largely spread for preparing beverages, particularly coffee from small containers holding a typical single-dose quantity of powdered concentrates, which are placed inside suitable machines destined to dispense the beverage; particularly hot water at a suitable temperature is caused to flow through said containers, in order to prepare the beverage for the consumption.

Presently, are for example commercially available the so-called coffee capsules typically formed by a base container defining a holding cavity adapted to receive coffee through an opening which is then closed by a covering element, for example a sealing film.

Under a condition of use, a coffee capsule is generally placed inside a suitable (at least partially) countershaped seat of a dispensing machine; during the dispensing step the same capsule is pierced at the top and at the bottom for defining a flow path for the hot pressurized water in order to dispense the coffee within seconds.

The capsules, which, to date, are the most widely spread, are formed by a holding plastic or aluminum body which, in turn is filled, sealed at the top by a film or a further closure aluminum sheet.

This type of containers has the problem of being difficult to recycle. De facto, the capsule comprises both a compostable moisture fraction (coffee), and materials destined to a completely different recycle chain, such as aluminum. Therefore, the recycle operations of such products seem hardly implementable because are borne by the final user, which should, at each consumption of the beverage, separate the moisture fraction from aluminum, so that each product will follow its own disposal path. Considering the high consumption and that the recycling operations are de facto assigned to the final users, the recovery operations of such materials are not actually performed.

In order to solve this disadvantage, in the past it was sought to manufacture containers which were recyclable, for example, because they consisted of paper material. However, the different capsules partially or completely of paper material have never been widely accepted due to a certain difficulty in obtaining the same cost and/or the same dispensing capacity and quality level as the products obtained by plastic/aluminum capsules.

However, among the different proposals which do not appear to be commercially successful, can be cited the containers for example described in the patent application EP0524464A1.

However, also these paper material containers, known to date, exhibit some serious shortcomings and/or limitations. De facto, even though the cost of the stock material (paper or paperboard) used for the paper containers is less than the one of the plastic and aluminum containers, the process for manufacturing the paper implementations is complex due to difficulties in processing the paper and is particularly expensive: the advantage obtained in terms of cost of the material is offset by the complex and expensive manufacturing process. In addition, it is noted that the paper containers devised to date, exhibit a structure having a low rigidity and are not very suitable to be used by the dispensing machines on the market.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Therefore, the invention is applicable to substantially solve at least one of the disadvantages and/or limitations of the preceding solutions.

The invention may include providing a capsule which is adapted to dispense a beverage and which is, in terms of performances, comparable with the common aluminum and/or plastic capsules. Specifically, it is an object of the present invention to provide a capsule which, although it is made of paper, exhibits an excellent tightness against pressurized fluids.

The invention, in a first aspect, is a capsule which can be suitable for dispensing machines already available on the market, in other words which does not require to provide specifically designed dispensing apparatuses.

Further, the invention may be configured to provide a capsule exhibiting a simple and robust structure which, at the same time, is economical to be manufactured.

In a first aspect, the invention includes a capsule (1) for producing beverages, comprising at least one paper material container (2), said container comprising:

a base (3),

a lateral wall (4) transversally emerging from the base (3) to define a holding cavity (5) adapted to receive a predetermined quantity of a powdered food substance adapted to enable to produce the beverage, the lateral wall (4) defining oppositely to the base (3) an opening of the container (2),

an edge portion (6), placed at the container (2) opening defined by the lateral wall (4), transversally emerging from the lateral wall (4) away from the holding cavity (5) and exhibiting at least one lower surface (6a) substantially facing the container (2) base (3) and at least one upper surface (6b) facing away from the lower surface (6a) with respect to the edge portion (6) itself, the base (3), lateral wall (4) and edge portion (6) of the container (2) being made in a single piece,

and wherein the container (2) is made of a paper sheet having a first and second prevalent development surfaces (2a, 2b), at least partially the first surface (2a) being adapted to define the outer surface of the container (2), while at least partially the second surface (2b) being adapted to define an inner surface of the container (2),

and wherein at least the lateral wall (4) of the container (2) comprises a plurality of pleats (27) defining overlapping areas of the paper sheet material, and wherein said first and second prevalent development surfaces (2a, 2b) exhibit overlapping areas wherein portions of the same surface are in contact with each other, a plurality of portions of the same first and/or second prevalent development surfaces being stably constrained and stably joined to each other.

In a 2nd aspect according to the aspect 1, each pleat (27) exhibits at least two portions of said first prevalent development surface (2a) of the container (2) facing and stably constrained to each other.

In a 3rd aspect according to anyone of the preceding aspects, each pleat (27) exhibits at least two portions of said second prevalent development surface (2b) of the container (2) facing and stably constrained to each other.

In a 4th aspect according to anyone of the preceding aspects, the pleats (27) exhibit a prevalent development having an increasing trend starting from the base (3) towards the edge portion (6).

In a 5th aspect according to anyone of the preceding aspects, the pleats (27) are absent at the container (2) base (3).

In a 6th aspect according to anyone of the preceding aspects, the pleats (27) extend along the whole lateral wall (4) and along the container (2) edge portion (6).

In a 7th aspect according to anyone of the preceding aspects, the pleats (27) are evenly placed along the whole lateral development of the lateral wall (4).

In an 8th aspect according to anyone of the preceding aspects, the container (2) extends from the base (3) to the opening of the same container (2) along a longitudinal development axis (X).

In a 9th aspect according to the preceding aspect, the pleats (27), according to a cross-section normal to the container (2) development axis (X), comprise a plurality of first sectors (21) extending along at least the perimetral development of the lateral wall (4), said first sectors (21) being defined by a layer of said container (2) of paper material interposed by a plurality of second sectors (22) defined by an overlap of several layers of the container (2), the second sectors (22) comprising at least one portion (23) defined by the layer from a first sector (21), at least one portion (24) defined by the layer from the first sector (21) adjacent to the preceding one and by at least one junction portion (25) connecting, without interruption, the other two portions (23, 24) in order to define an overlap of at least three layers of said container (2).

In a 10th aspect according to the preceding aspect, the second sectors (22) exhibit at least one portion (23) defined by the layer from a first sector (21) facing and constrained to the junction portion (25), and/or

wherein the portion (24) defined by the layer from the first sector (21) adjacent to the preceding one faces and is constrained to the junction portion (25).

In an 11th aspect according to anyone of the preceding aspects, the pleats (27) exhibit a lap area (30) comprising a first and second overlapping areas (31, 32), the first overlapping area (31) comprising at least one first and one second portions (33, 34) of the first prevalent development surface (2a) of the container, substantially facing each other, the second overlapping area (32) comprising at least one first and one second portions (35, 36) of the second prevalent development surface (2b) of the container (2), facing each other,

and wherein at least partially the first prevalent development surface (2a) of the first portion (33) of the first overlapping area (31) is at least partially constrained to the first prevalent development surface (2a) of the second portion (34) of the first overlapping area (31) of the lap area (30), and/or at least partially the second prevalent development surface (2b) of the first portion (35) of the second overlapping area (32) is constrained to at least partially the second prevalent development surface (2b) of the second portion (36) of the second overlapping area (32) of the lap area (30).

In a 12th aspect according to the preceding aspect, the first and second portions (33, 34) of the first prevalent development surface (2a) are constrained to each other and/or the first and second portions (35, 36) of the second prevalent development surface (2b) are constrained to each other.

In a 13th aspect according to the aspect 11 or 12, at least one of the portions of the first and/or second overlapping areas (31, 32) exhibits an area having an increasing trend away from the base (3).

In a 14th aspect according to anyone of the preceding aspects, the pleats (27) exhibit, according to a cross-section, a substantially “Z” outline.

In a 15th aspect according to the preceding aspect, the “Z” outline of the pleats (27) exhibits a development having an increasing trend away from the base (3).

In a 16th aspect according to anyone of the preceding aspects, the pleats (27) are substantially identical to each other, particularly equally spaced from each other along the perimetral development of the container (2).

In a 17th aspect according to anyone of the preceding aspects, the container (2) lateral wall (4) comprises a plurality of pleats (27) placed according to an even trend along said lateral wall (4) and/or along said edge portion (6).

In an 18th aspect according to anyone of the preceding aspects, the container (2), before the deforming step, lies in a plane and exhibits a first and second surfaces (2a, 2b) opposite to each other, said container (2), after the deforming step, arranges itself in an operative condition in which the container (2) itself defines the holding cavity (5), the inner surface thereof is defined by the second prevalent development surface (2b).

In a 19th aspect according to anyone of the preceding aspects, the pleats (27) are configured for enabling, during the deforming step, to place the container (2) from the flat sheet arrangement to an operative three-dimensional arrangement.

In a 20th aspect according to anyone of the preceding aspects, the capsule (1) comprises at least one fixing element placed on at least one of said first and second prevalent development surfaces (2a, 2b), said fixing element being configured for being interposed between two portions of the same surface of a plurality of overlapping areas of the pleats for stably constraining said portions.

In a 21st aspect according to the preceding aspect, the fixing element comprises at least one plastic film covering the first and/or second prevalent development surfaces (2a, 2b), configured for constraining by thermo-forming the portions of the same first and/or second prevalent development surfaces of a plurality of overlapping areas of the pleats (27).

In a 22nd aspect according to the aspect 20, the fixing element comprises at least one adhesive element, for example glue, interposed between portions of the same first and/or second prevalent development surfaces of a plurality of overlapping areas of the pleats (27).

In a 23rd aspect according to anyone of the preceding aspects, the capsule comprises at least one reinforcing element (38) stably engaged with the container (2) edge portion (6) and exhibiting a central cavity (11) adapted to enable to gain access to the container (2) holding cavity (5), said reinforcing element (38) comprises at least one first peripheral edge (12) engaged with the upper surface (6b) of the edge portion (6) of the container (2), the first peripheral edge (12) extending around the container (2) holding cavity (5) to define a closed outline.

In a 24th aspect according to the preceding aspect, the first peripheral edge (12) of the reinforcing element (38) covers the whole upper surface (6b) of the container (2) edge portion (6).

In a 25th aspect according to the aspect 23 or 24, the first peripheral edge (12) covers the whole upper surface (6b) of the edge portion (6) and at least partially the container (2) lateral wall (4).

In a 26th aspect according to the aspect 23 or 24, the first peripheral edge (12) of the reinforcing element (38) comprises an abutment portion (39) facing away from the container (2) base (3), said abutment portion (39) exhibiting at least one closure surface (40) having a substantially smooth surface defining a closed outline around the container (2) opening.

In a 27th aspect according to the preceding aspect, the substantially smooth closure surface (40) is placed above the edge portion (6) and/or is placed in an area outside the outer perimeter of the edge portion (6).

In a 28th aspect according to the aspect 26 or 27, the closure surface (40) extends along a plane substantially parallel to the container (2) base (3), and exhibits at least one housing seat (42) having a concavity facing away from the container (2) base (3).

In a 29th aspect according to the preceding aspect, the housing seat (42) exhibits a substantially “C” outline.

In a 30th aspect according to anyone of the aspects from 23 to 29, the reinforcing element (38) comprises a second peripheral edge (9) engaged with the lower surface (6a) of the container (2) edge portion (6), the second peripheral edge (9) extending around the holding cavity (5) of the container (2) to define a closed outline, the edge portion (6) being interposed between said first and second peripheral edges (12, 9).

In a 31st aspect according to anyone of the preceding aspects, the reinforcing element (38) covers at least the whole outer perimeter of the edge portion (6) to define a closed outline around the container (2) opening.

In a 32nd aspect according to the aspect 30 or 31, the first peripheral edge (9) covers at least partially the lower surface (6a) of the edge portion (6) to define a continuous closed outline element around the container (2) opening.

In a 33rd aspect according to anyone of the aspects from 30 to 32, the first peripheral edge (9) covers the whole lower surface (6a) of the edge portion (6).

In a 34th aspect according to anyone of the aspects from 30 to 33, the first peripheral edge (9) covers the whole lower surface (6a) of the edge portion (6) and connects itself on the container (2) lateral wall (4).

In a 35th aspect according to anyone of the aspects from 30 to 34, the reinforcing element (38) comprises a connecting portion (41) perimetrally abutting on the edge portion (6), said connecting portion (41) being made in a single piece with the first and second peripheral edges (12, 9), the first peripheral portion (12), second peripheral portion (9) and connecting portion (41) defining a single piece.

In a 36th aspect according to the preceding aspect, the first peripheral edge (12), second peripheral edge (9) and connecting portion (41) define a substantially “C” cross-section configured for incorporating at least the edge portion (6).

In a 37th aspect according to anyone of the aspects from 23 to 36, the reinforcing element (38) exhibits an annular shape having a radial size greater than the radial size of the edge portion (6).

In a 38th aspect according to anyone of the preceding aspects, the first peripheral edge (12) and second peripheral edge (9) exhibit the same radial size.

In a 39th aspect according to anyone of the aspects from 23 to 38, the reinforcing element (38) is at least partially made of paper material and/or plastic material.

In a 40th aspect according to anyone of the aspects from 23 to 39, the reinforcing element (38) is at least partially made of recyclable and/or biodegradable and/or compostable plastic material.

In a 41st aspect according to anyone of the aspects from 23 to 40, the reinforcing element (38) is made of MATERBI® and/or of biodegradable and/or compostable plastic materials.

In a 42nd aspect according to anyone of the preceding aspects, the container (2) is made of recyclable and/or biodegradable and/or compostable paper material.

In a 43rd aspect according to anyone of the aspects from 30 to 42, the first and second peripheral edges (12, 9) of the reinforcing element (38) are integrally made.

In a 44th aspect according to anyone of the aspects from 23 to 43, the reinforcing element (38) is directly made on the edge portion (6) by a thermo-forming process, particularly by a thermo-molding one.

In a 45th aspect according to anyone of the aspects from 30 to 44, the first and second peripheral edges are made in a single piece directly made on the edge portion (6) by a thermo-forming process, particularly a thermo-molding one.

In a 46th aspect according to anyone of the aspects from 23 to 45, the reinforcing element (38) is integrally made of plastic material by thermo-forming, particularly by thermo-molding, the element itself on the container (2) edge portion (6).

In a 47th aspect according to anyone of the aspects from 23 to 46, the first peripheral edge (12) of the reinforcing element (38) has, in a cross-section according to a plane passing for a development axis (X) of the container (2), an outline at least slightly curved from a substantially flat radially most outward area to a radially inner area and partially overlapped with the most curved lateral wall (4).

In a 48th aspect according to the preceding aspect, the first peripheral edge (12) comprises an inner band (12a) and an outer band (12b) both at least partially overlapped and engaged with the edge portion (6), the inner band (12a) being at least partially placed inside the holding cavity (5), the outer band (12b) being directly placed on the edge portion (6).

In a 49th aspect according to the preceding aspect, the outer band (12b) of the second peripheral edge (12) carries the closure surface (40) of the abutment portions (39).

In a 50th aspect according to anyone of the aspects from 30 to 48, the second peripheral edge (9) has, in a cross-section along a plane passing for a development axis (X) of the container (2), at least one slightly curved outline from a substantially flat radially most outward area to a radially inward area partially overlapped on the most curved lateral wall (4).

In a 51st aspect according to the preceding aspect, the second peripheral edge (9) comprises an inner band (9a) and an outer band (9b) both engaged with the container (2), the inner band (9a) being engaged at least partially with the edge portion (6) and with the lateral wall (4) of the container (2), the inner band (9a) being placed at least partially inside the holding cavity (5), the outer band (9b) of the first peripheral edge (9) being engaged with the edge portion (6).

In a 52nd aspect according to the preceding aspect, the inner band (9a) is engaged at least partially with the edge portion (6) and with the lateral wall (4) of the container (2), the inner band (9a) being placed at least partially inside the holding cavity (5), the outer band (9b) of the first peripheral edge (9) being engaged with the edge portion (6) and at least partially integrally joined to the outer band (12b) of the second peripheral edge (12).

In a 53rd aspect according to the preceding aspect, the outer band (9b) of the peripheral edge (9) is coupled, particularly fluid-tightly, directly or indirectly to the outer band (12b) of the peripheral edge (12).

In a 54th aspect according to the aspect 52 or 53, the outer band (9b) of the peripheral edge (9) is fluid-tightly coupled directly to the outer band (12b) of the peripheral edge (12) by heat-sealing.

In a 55th aspect according to anyone of the preceding aspects, the capsule comprises at least one stiffening body (14) coupled to the container (2) inside the holding cavity (5) at the base (3).

In a 56th aspect according to the preceding aspect, the stiffening body (14) is a laminated body made of paper material and comprising a central through cavity (15) and a peripheral edge (16), particularly the central cavity (15) being substantially circular.

In a 57th aspect according to anyone of the preceding aspects, the base (3) comprises at least one flat central portion (3a) and an outer portion (3b) connecting with the lateral wall (4) and contiguous to the flat portion (3) with a sloped trend with respect to the flat portion, in a cross-section according to a plane normal to the development axis (X) of the container, the base (3) comprises a first segment (18) emerging from the lateral wall (4) and sloped with respect to the same, a second flat segment (19) extending from the first sloped segment, and a third segment (20) extending from the second flat segment and sloped with respect to the same.

In a 58th aspect according to the preceding aspect, the stiffening body (14) is at least coupled to the outer portion (3b) of the base (3).

In a 59th aspect according to anyone of the aspects from 56 to 58, the central cavity (15) is placed at the flat central portion (3a), in a cross-section according to a plane normal to the development axis (X) of the container (2), the stiffening body (14) exhibiting at least two main lengths (26) which are respectively coupled to the first and third segments (18, 20).

In a 60th aspect according to anyone of the aspects from 23 to 59, the capsule (1) comprises at least one laminated element (13) closing the holding cavity (5) coupled, particularly substantially fluid-tightly, with the reinforcing element (38) for closing an access to the holding cavity (5).

In a 61st aspect according to the preceding aspect, the laminated closure element (13) is at least made partially of a recyclable and/or biodegradable and/or compostable plastic material.

In a 62nd aspect according to the aspect 60 or 61, the laminated element (13) being stably constrained, by thermo-forming or heat-sealing, to the closure surface (40) of the second peripheral edge (12).

In a 63rd aspect according to anyone of the aspects from 60 to 62, the laminated element (13) exhibits a first and second surfaces (13a; 13b) opposite to each other, said first surface (13a) of the laminated element (13) facing the container (2), and being coupled to at least the second peripheral edge (12).

In a 64th aspect according to anyone of the aspects from 30 to 63, the first peripheral edge (9) and second peripheral edge (12) are made both of a recyclable and/or biodegradable and/or compostable plastic material.

In a 65th aspect according to anyone of the aspects from 30 to 64, the first peripheral edge (9) and second peripheral edge (12) are made of the same plastic material.

In a 66th aspect according to anyone of the aspects from 55 to 65, the stiffening element (14) is made of paper and/or plastic material.

In a 67th aspect according to anyone of the aspects from 55 to 66, the stiffening element (14) is made of a recyclable and/or biodegradable and/or compostable material.

In a 68th aspect according to anyone of the aspects from 23 to 67, the reinforcing element (38) comprises a connecting portion (45) joined in single piece to the first peripheral edge (9) and/or second peripheral edge (12), said connecting portion (45) extending on approach to the base (3).

In a 69th aspect according to the preceding aspect, the connecting portion (45) abuts, at least partially, on the container (2) lateral wall (4) outside and/or inside the holding cavity (5).

In a 70th aspect according to the aspect 68 or 69, the connecting portion (45) comprises a plurality of rods connected to the reinforcing element (38) and extending towards the base (3) to define an inner reinforcing cage inside and/or outside the container (2).

In a 71st aspect according to anyone of the aspects from 68 to 70, the connecting portion (45) is connected to an end of the reinforcing element (38) and to the other end of the stiffening element (14).

In a 72nd aspect according to anyone of the aspects from 55 to 67, the laminated closure element (13) is made of paper material, particularly filter paper and/or plastic material.

In a 73rd aspect according to anyone of the aspects from 60 to 72, the laminated closure element (13) is made of a recyclable and/or biodegradable and/or compostable material.

In a 74th aspect according to anyone of the preceding aspects, the base (3) exhibits a substantially circular shape, particularly wherein the base (3) comprises a disc or an annulus.

In a 75th aspect according to anyone of the preceding aspects, said lateral wall (4) exhibits, according to a plane parallel to the base (3), a substantially circular outline, particularly wherein said lateral wall (4) exhibits a frusto-conical shape.

In a 76th aspect according to anyone of the preceding aspects, the lateral wall (4) exhibits, with respect to the base (3), a demolding angle less than 110°, particularly less than 100°, still more particularly less than 95°.

In a 77th aspect according to anyone of the preceding aspects, the container (2) of paper sheet material exhibits a grammage comprised between 30 g/m² and 400 g/m², particularly comprised between 35 g/m² and 300 g/m², still more particularly comprised between 50 g/m² and 250 g/m².

In a 78th aspect according to anyone of the preceding aspects, the container (2) lateral wall (4) comprises at least one abutment ring (28).

In a 79th aspect according to anyone of the preceding aspects, the paper material defining the container (2) comprises dispersed nanoparticles having hydrophobic and/or oleophobic properties, the nanoparticles providing to the paper material corresponding hydrophobic and/or oleophobic properties.

In an 80th aspect according to anyone of the preceding aspects, the base (3) comprises a predetermined number of pre-holes for enabling a liquid to flow without the necessity of piercing the base itself under dispensing conditions.

In an 81st aspect according to anyone of the preceding aspects, further the capsule comprises a filter, for example as a sponge element, placed at the base (3) inside the holding cavity (5) for preventing coffee particulate from escaping from the base also during the steps of supplying a beverage.

In an 82nd aspect according to anyone of the preceding aspects, the base (3) comprises one or more portions weakened by pre-cuts, or thinning by crushing, for example, for making easier opening the holes when dispensing coffee.

In an 83rd aspect according to anyone of the preceding aspects, further the capsule comprises a predetermined quantity of powdered concentrate placed inside the container (2).

In an 84th aspect according to the preceding aspect, the powdered concentrate comprises a food substance configured for enabling, mixed with water, to produce a beverage.

In an 85th aspect, it is provided a capsule (1) for producing beverages comprising at least one container (2) of paper material, said container comprising:

a base (3),

a lateral wall (4) transversally emerging from the base (3) to define a holding cavity (5) arranged to receive a predetermined quantity of a powdered food substance adapted to enable to produce the beverage, the lateral wall (4) defining, oppositely to the base (3), a container (2) opening,

an edge portion (6), placed at the container (2) opening defined by the lateral wall (4), transversally emerging from the lateral wall (4) away from the holding cavity (5) and exhibiting at least one lower surface (6a) substantially facing the container (2) base (3) and at least one upper surface (6b) facing away from the lower surface (6a) in relation to the edge portion (6) itself, the base (3), lateral wall (4) and edge portion (6) of the container (2) being made in a single piece,

at least one reinforcing element (38) of plastic material stably engaged with the container (2) edge portion (6) and exhibiting a central cavity (11) adapted to enable to gain access to the holding cavity (5) of the container (2) itself, said reinforcing element (38) comprising at least one first peripheral edge (12) engaged with the upper surface (6b) of the container (2) edge portion (6),

and wherein the container (2) is made of a paper sheet having one first and one second prevalent development surfaces (2a, 2b), at least partially the first surface (2a) being adapted to define an outer surface of the container (2), while at least partially the second surface (2b) being adapted to define an inner surface of the container (2), at least one of said first and second prevalent development surfaces (2a, 2b) being covered by a plastic material film,

and wherein at least the container (2) lateral wall (4) comprises a plurality of pleats (27) defining overlapping areas of the paper sheet material, and wherein said first and second prevalent development surfaces (2a, 2b) exhibit overlapping areas, wherein portions of the same surface are in contact with each other, a plurality of portions of the same first and/or second prevalent development surfaces being stably constrained to each other by heat-sealing the plastic film.

In an 86th aspect, it is provided a process for making a capsule (1) according to anyone of the preceding aspects.

In an 87th aspect, it is provided a process for making a capsule (1) for producing beverages, said process comprising at least the following steps:

providing a flat element (37) of paper material, for example of a substantially circular shape, exhibiting a first and second surfaces (2a, 2b) opposite to each other,

deforming, for example by drawing, the flat element (37) for shaping it as a container (2) having a base (3) and a lateral wall (4) transversally emerging from the base (3) to define a holding cavity (5), the deforming step further defining on the container (2) an edge portion (6) transversally emerging from the lateral wall (4) at an opening of the container (2) placed oppositely to the base (3), the edge portion (6) emerging away from the holding cavity (5), the base (3), the lateral wall (4) and the edge portion (6) of the container (2) being integrally made,

and wherein the deforming step defines at least at the lateral wall (4) a plurality of pleats (27) defining overlapping areas of the paper sheet material of the container adapted to enable, during the same deforming step, to arrange the container (2) from a flat configuration to a three-dimensional configuration, and wherein said first and second prevalent development surfaces (2a, 2b) exhibit overlapping areas wherein portions of the same surface are in contact with each other,

fixing a plurality of portions of the same first and/or second prevalent development surfaces in contact with each other.

In an 88th aspect according to the preceding aspect, the fixing step is adapted to stably block, for each pleat (27), at least two portions of said first prevalent development surface (2a) of the container (2), facing each other.

In an 89th aspect according to the aspect 87 or 88, the fixing step is adapted to stably block, for each pleat (27), at least two portions of said second prevalent development surface (2b) of the container (2) facing each other.

In a 90th aspect according to anyone of the aspects from 87 to 89, the deforming step comprises a step of drawing the flat element (37).

In a 91st aspect according to anyone of the aspects from 87 to 90, the deforming step arranges the flat element (37) in a three-dimensional configuration wherein the container (2) extends from the base (3) to the opening of the same container (2) along a longitudinal development axis (X), the deforming step defining the pleats (27) which, according to a cross-section normal to the container (2) development axis (X), comprise a plurality of first sectors (21) extending at least along the perimetral development of the lateral wall (4), said first sectors (21) being defined by a layer of said container (2) of paper material interposed by a plurality of second sectors (22) defined by an overlap of plural layers of the container (2), the second sectors (22) comprising at least one portion (23) defined by the layer from a first sector (21), at least one portion (24) defined by the layer from the first sector (2) adjacent to the preceding one, and by at least one junction portion (25) connecting, without interruption, the other two portions (23, 24) in order to define an overlap of at least three layers of said container (2),

and wherein the fixing step enables to stably engage at least one portion (23) of a second sector (22), defined by the layer from a first sector (21), with the junction portion (25) of the same pleat, and/or

wherein the fixing step enables to stably engage at least one portion (24) of a second sector (22), defined by the layer from a first sector (21) adjacent to the preceding one, with the junction portion (25) of the same pleat (27).

In a 92nd aspect according to anyone of the aspects from 87 to 91, the deforming step enables to define pleats (27) exhibiting a lap area (30) comprising a first and second overlapping areas (31, 32), the first overlapping area (31) comprising at least one first and one second portions (33, 34) of the first prevalent development surface (2a) of the container substantially facing each other, the second overlapping area (32) comprising at least one first and one second portions (35, 36) of the second prevalent development surface (2b) of the container (2) facing each other,

and wherein the fixing step enables to stably engage at least partially the first prevalent development surface (2a) of the first portion (33) of the first overlapping area (31) with at least partially the first prevalent development surface (2a) of the second portion (34) of the first overlapping area (31) of the lap area (30), and/or

wherein the fixing step enables to stably engage at least partially the second prevalent development surface (2b) of the first portion (35) of the second overlapping area (32) with at least partially the second prevalent development surface (2b) of the second portion (36) of the second overlapping area (32) of the lap area (30).

In a 93rd aspect according to anyone of the aspects from 87 to 92, the fixing step comprises at least the following sub-steps:

applying on the first and/or second prevalent development surfaces (2a, 2b) of the sheet flat element (37) a fixing element,

executing the step of deforming the sheet flat element (37) to define said plurality of pleats (27) wherein each pleat (27) comprises at least one overlapping area of the first and second prevalent development surfaces (2a, 2b), and wherein at least one portion of the fixing element is interposed between portions of the overlapping area of the same prevalent development surface, the fixing element, at the end of the deforming step, stably engaging the portions of the overlapping area of the same prevalent development surface between which the same is interposed.

In a 94th aspect according to the preceding aspect, the fixing element comprises a covering plastic film of the first and/or second prevalent development surfaces (2a, 2b),

the fixing step comprises a step of simultaneously deforming and thermo-forming the container, adapted to enable to seal the film portions of the same overlapping area of the paper material, optionally wherein the fixing step comprises a step of thermo-molding the container (2).

In a 95th aspect according to anyone of the aspects from 87 to 94, the process further comprises a step of constraining a reinforcing element (38) to the edge portion (6) so that a central cavity (11) of the reinforcing element (38) enables to gain access to the container (2) holding cavity (5), the constraining step enabling at least one first peripheral edge (12) to be engaged with the upper surface (6a) of the container (2) edge portion (6).

In a 96th aspect according to the preceding aspect, the constraining step provides to engage, particularly by thermo-forming, at least one second peripheral edge (9) on the lower surface (6a) of the edge portion (6) of the container (2), the edge portion (6) becoming interposed between said first and second peripheral edges (12, 9).

In a 97th aspect according to the aspect 95 or 96, the reinforcing element (38) is at least partially made of recyclable and/or biodegradable and/or compostable plastic material, the step of constraining the reinforcing element (38) comprises a step of thermo-forming, particularly over-molding, the reinforcing element (38) on the edge portion (6) so that this latter can stably incorporate said edge portion (6).

In a 98th aspect according to the preceding aspect, the step of constraining the reinforcing element (38) to the edge portion (6) comprises a sub-step of defining, on the first peripheral edge (12), an abutment portion (39) exhibiting a substantially smooth closure portion (40) facing away from the container (2) base (3), said closure surface (40) defining a continuous closed outline around an opening of the container (2).

In a 99th aspect according to the preceding aspect, the process comprises at least the following steps:

making at least one closure laminated element (13) at least partially of plastic material film,

following the step of deforming the container, inserting a predetermined quantity of a powdered concentrate inside the container (2) holding cavity (5),

constraining the reinforcing element (37) to the container (2) edge portion (6),

coupling the closure laminated element (13) to an upper substantially smooth closure surface (40), facing away from the container (2) base (3), of the reinforcing element (38).

In a 100th aspect according to anyone of the aspects from 87 to 90, the process comprises a step of coupling a stiffening body (14) to the container (2) base (3).

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Some embodiments and some aspects of the invention will be described in the following with reference to the attached drawings given only illustratively and therefore in a non limiting way, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a capsule according to the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a cross-section view according to the line II-II of the capsule in FIG. 1;

FIGS. 3 and 4 are details of a capsule according to the present invention;

FIGS. 5 and 6 are respective perspective views of embodiment variants of a capsule according to the present invention;

FIG. 7 is a cross-section view of the capsule in FIG. 5;

FIG. 8 is a detail of the cross-section view of the capsule in FIG. 7;

FIG. 9 is an exploded view of the capsule in FIG. 5;

FIG. 10 is a cross-section view of an embodiment variant of a capsule according to the present invention;

FIG. 11 is a schematic view of the first steps of manufacturing a capsule according to the present invention;

FIG. 12 is a schematic view of possible further steps of manufacturing a capsule according to the present invention;

FIGS. 13-16 are embodiment variants of a capsule according to the present invention;

FIG. 17 is a detailed cross-section view of an embodiment variant of a capsule according to the present invention;

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of an embodiment variant of a capsule according to the present invention.

MATERIALS AND DEFINITIONS

The figures could illustrate the object of the invention by not-drawn-in-scale representations; therefore, parts and components illustrated in the figures regarding the object of the invention could exclusively refer to schematic representations.

The term “beverage” means a composition at a liquid state destined to the food use. For example, the beverage can be of an alcohol-free type based on water, milk or tea to be consumed cold (for example drinks, fruit juices, sport drinks) or to be consumed hot (for example hot tea and coffee). Specifically, the beverage can be of a type obtainable by pressurized hot water flowing inside the capsule, such capsule holding a powdered/granular flavoring compound.

The container 2 can be made, at least partially, of a paper sheet material. The term “paper material” means paper or paperboard; particularly, the sheet material useful for making the container, can exhibit a grammage comprised between 30 and 450 g/m², particularly comprised between 35 and 300 g/m², still more particularly between 50 and 250 g/m². The discussed paper material extends from a first and second prevalent development surfaces. The sheet paper material used for making the container can, in an embodiment variant thereof, be covered for at least one portion of the first and/or second prevalent development surface by a layer of plastic material, for example a food-grade film. In case the layer is arranged for covering at least partially the first prevalent development surface, the same layer will define an inner surface of the container. Viceversa, in case the layer is arranged on the second prevalent development surface, the same layer will define an outer surface of the container.

The layer can be thermally processed in order to operate as an element for engaging with, and fixing portions of the container. Further, the layer can be used for defining a kind of water and moisture barrier useful for avoiding a weakening and a loss of structurality of the container, which can cause a deformation of the paper material forming this latter component.

Advantageously, but not in a limiting way, the layer could comprise an extrusion-coating on one or both the sides (inner and/or outer sides) of the paper material defining the container with values which can for example vary between 10 and 50 μm of the layer material (i.e., of extrusion-coating). The layer plastic material could be for example selected among the following materials: LDPE, HDPE, PP, PE.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Capsule

As shown in the Figures, 1 generally indicates a capsule for producing a beverage. The capsule 1, object of the present description, is particularly adapted to define a container for food products, as for example powdered coffee and/or tea and/or milk and/or fruit juices, and configured for enabling to dispense beverages.

The capsule 1 comprises a container 2, a reinforcing element 38 more possibly an inner stiffening body 14. The capsule 1, when is completed, will comprise also powdered coffee housed in the container 2 and a closure laminated element 13.

The capsule comprises a container made of paper sheet material exhibiting a first prevalent development surface 2a configured for at least partially defining the outer surface of the container and a second prevalent development surface 2a, opposite to the first surface 2a, and adapted to define at least partially the container 2 inner surface.

The sheet material forming the container 2 is made of paper or paperboard and exhibits, for example, a grammage comprised between 30 g/m² and 400 g/m². Exemplifyingly, the used paper will have a grammage comprised between 90 and 100 g/m² (specifically 95 g/m²). Moreover, the container 2 thickness depends on the paper grammage. For the paper (10÷150 g/m²), the thickness will be comprised between 0.03 and 0.3 mm; for the paperboard (150÷450 g/m²) the thickness will be greater than 0.3 mm.

Advantageously, the material (paper or paperboard) used for making the container 2 is recyclable and/or biodegradable and/or compostable. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the container 2 is compostable, in other words the material is disintegrable (not just biodegradable) with low levels of heavy metals, and further the decomposition process ends in a two/three months interval.

The hereinafter described particular application can be obtained, for example, by using a special hydrophobic and/or oleophobic paper, particularly processed by nanoparticles techniques, for example a type of paper described in the patent application PCT n. WO 2012085879 A1.

The container 2, before a deforming step, is a flat sheet and lays in a prevalent development plane while, after the deforming step, is configured for being arranged in a first three-dimensional semifinished operative condition, in which the container 2 itself defines a holding cavity 5, the delimiting surface thereof is defined by the second prevalent development surface 2b (inner surface).

The container 2, under the operative condition, comprises a base 3 substantially defining the lower or abutment portion of the capsule 1. As it is visible in the attached figures, the base 3 substantially develops along a prevalent development plane. The attached figures show, in a non limiting way, a base 3 exhibiting a substantially circular shape: such base 3 substantially comprises a disc and is generally flat at least in the central area thereof. More specifically and as it is visible in the figures, the base 3 comprises at least a central flat portion 3a; in the embodiment illustrated for example in FIG. 7, the base 3 (and the central portion 3a) is substantially completely flat.

The central portion 3 can, in an embodiment, define the whole base (the base 3 is completely substantially flat); viceversa, the embodiment, for example shown in FIG. 7, comprises also an outer portion 3b connecting with the lateral wall 4, contiguous to the flat portion 3a and having a sloped trend with respect to the flat portion.

This embodiment, in a cross-section along a plane normal to a vertical development axis X of the container, shows a base 3 having a first segment 18 emerging from the lateral wall 4 and sloped with respect to the same, a second flat segment 19 extending from the first sloped segment and a third segment 20 extending from the second flat segment and sloped with respect to the same; the third segment 20 is joined to the lateral wall 4 oppositely to the first segment. In other words, the base 3 exhibits a large junction area which is concave towards the holding cavity 5.

From the dimensional point of view, the base 3, as a whole (the central area plus the peripheral one) exhibits a diameter comprised between 40 mm and 10 mm, particularly comprised between 35 mm and 15 mm, still more particularly comprised between 33 mm and 17 mm. Instead, with reference to the base 3 thickness, particularly the disk thickness, this is substantially equal to the thickness of the paper sheet material; such thickness, as previously discussed, depends at least partially on the grammage of the paper sheet making said container 2.

In further embodiments not illustrated in the attached figures (and less interesting), the base 3 can define a substantially polygonal or elliptical shape and can also be slightly domed convexly or concavely according to the needs.

A lateral wall 4 emerges from the base 3, at an outer perimeter of the base 3 itself, which defines a free edge delimiting the capsule 1 holding cavity 5 and which defines an opening placed on the top of the capsule 1 itself and therefore placed oppositely to the base 3 with respect to the lateral wall 4.

As it is visible in the attached figures, the lateral wall 4 exhibits, according to a plane substantially parallel to the base 3, a substantially circular outline (FIG. 2), then particularly the lateral wall exhibits a substantially frusto-conical shape (see FIG. 1, for example) adapted to make the containers nestable and stackable.

Therefore, the lateral wall 4 comprises a first lower end edge which is connected to the base 3, particularly connected to a base 3 perimeter. Further, the lateral wall 4 comprises a second end edge placed oppositely to the first end edge with respect to the lateral wall; particularly, the second end edge corresponds, under the operative condition, to the previously defined free edge. In the case illustrated in the attached figures, therefore the second end edge exhibits, in a non limiting way, a substantially circular shape, particularly the second end edge exhibits the same shape as the free edge.

In further embodiments not illustrated in the attached figures, the lateral wall 4 can exhibit, according to a plane substantially parallel to the base 3, a polygonal or elliptical or another type of shape. In these latter cases, the lateral wall 4 defines a substantially parallelepiped or substantially frusto-conical shape. In a further case, not illustrated in the attached figures, the lateral wall 4 can exhibit the first end edge having a first shape and the second end edge having a second shape different from the shape of the first end edge. An example of this described latter configuration can be represented by a first end edge having a circular shape and a second end edge having a substantially polygonal shape.

From the geometrical point of view, the first surface 2a of the lateral wall 4 exhibits, with respect to the first surface 2a of the base 3, a demolding angle less than 110°, particularly less than 100°, still more particularly less than 95°. Preferably, such angle will be however equal to or greater than 90°. In other words, the lateral wall 4 could be cylindrical or slightly frusto-conical with an increment of the cross-section away from the base 3 (see for example FIG. 7).

Instead, with reference to the dimensional aspect, the lateral wall 4 exhibits an extension, with respect to a direction normal to the base 3, greater than 10 mm, particularly greater than 15 mm, still more particularly equal to or greater than 24 mm.

As it is possible to observe from the attached figures, the container 2, under the operative condition, comprises an edge portion 6 extending from the free edge in a direction transversal to the lateral wall 4 and away from the holding cavity 5 opening. More specifically, as it is visible in the attached figures, the edge portion 6 extends almost parallelly to the middle plane containing the base 3. Particularly, the first edge portion 6 surface 2a defines, with the first surface 2a of the lateral wall 4, an angle substantially complementary to the angle defined by the first lateral wall 4 surface 2a with the first surface 2a of the base 3. Still more particularly, the second edge portion 6 surface 2b defines, with the second surface 2b of lateral wall 4, an angle substantially equal to the angle defined by the first surface 2a of the lateral wall 4 with the first surface 2a of the base 3.

From the dimensional point of view, the second surface 2b of the edge portion 6 defines, with the second surface 2b of the lateral wall 4, an angle less than 110°, particularly less than 100°, still more particularly less than 95°. In any case, such angle will be equal to or greater than 90°.

Generally, the edge portion 6 lays in a plane substantially parallel to the plane (at least in the central area) of the base 3 central area 3a.

As it is visible in the attached figures, the edge portion 6 extends along a development plane and exhibits a first end edge 43 connected to the lateral wall 4 free edge, therefore to the second end edge of the lateral wall 4, and a second end edge 44 at least partially spaced from the first end edge 43 (see FIG. 8). The attached figures represent, in a non limiting way, a configuration in which the first end edge 43 of the edge portion 6 exhibits the same shape, even though with smaller size, as the second end edge 44 of the edge portion 6. Alternatively, it is possible to make an edge portion 6 exhibiting the first end edge 43 having a first shape and a second end edge 44 having a second shape different from the first shape of the first end edge 43.

Turning back to the description of the configuration represented in the attached figures, it is possible to observe that the edge portion 6 exhibits, in a non limiting way, a substantially annulus or ring shape, the inner circumference thereof coinciding with the free edge. From the dimensional point of view, the edge portion 6 exhibits an inner diameter greater than mm, particularly greater than 24 mm, still more particularly equal to or greater than 28 mm, while the outer diameter of the peripheral area is less than 66 mm, particularly less than 60 mm, still more particularly equal to or less than 50 mm.

As it is possible to observe in the attached figures, the container 2, under the operative condition, comprises a plurality of pleats 27 placed at the lateral wall 4 and edge portion 6. Such pleats 27 are configured for enabling, during the deforming step, to arrange the container 2 from a flat configuration, wherein this latter lays in a prevalent development plane, to a container-type three-dimensional configuration. De facto, each pleat 27 defines overlapping areas of the paper sheet material of the container; the pleats 27 therefore define overlapping areas wherein said first and second prevalent development surfaces 2a, 2b exhibit portions of the same surface in contact with each other.

More specifically, the pleats 27 comprise a plurality of first sectors 21 extending along the perimetral development of the lateral wall 9 and of the annulus 11 (see also FIGS. 3A, 3B and 10). The first sectors 21 are defined by a single layer of the container 2 of paper sheet material interposed by a plurality of second sectors 22 defined by an overlap of more layers of the container 2. The second sectors 22 comprise at least one portion 23 defined by the layer from a first sector 21, at least one portion 24 defined by the layer from the first sector 21 adjacent to the preceding one, and by at least one junction portion 25 connecting, without interruption, the other two portions 23, 24: in this way the portions of the first sector and the connecting portion define an overlap of at least three layers of sheet material container 2 (see FIG. 3, for example).

In other words, the pleats 27 comprise a lap area 30 comprising a first and second overlapping areas 31, 32: the first overlapping area 31 comprises at least one first and one second portions 33, 34 of the first surface 2a, substantially facing each other, particularly in contact with each other, while the second overlapping area 32 comprises at least one first and one second portions 35, 36 of the second surface 2b, substantially facing each other, particularly in contact with each other.

As previously discussed, the pleats 27 are configured for enabling to deform the container 2, particularly for enabling to arrange this latter in a three-dimensional configuration. From a structural point of view, the pleats 27 enable to offset the quantity of additional material which could build up during the transformation of the container 2 from the flat configuration to the three-dimensional one.

As it is understandable, the greater the vertical development of the capsule 1 is, the greater the quantity of material to offset will be. De facto, at least one of the portions of the first and/or second overlapping areas 31, 32 exhibits an area having an increasing trend away from the base 3: such trend depends on the container 2 structure after the deforming step.

Generally and as hereinbefore discussed, the pleats 27 define overlapping areas of paper sheet material and wherein said first and second prevalent development surfaces 2a, 2b exhibit overlapping areas wherein portions of the same surface are in contact with each other. Advantageously, a plurality of portions of the same first and/or second prevalent development surfaces are stably constrained to each other.

Specifically, each pleat 27 exhibits at least two portions of said first prevalent development surface 2a of the container 2 facing and stably constrained to each other. Further, each pleat 27 exhibits at least two portions of said second prevalent development surface 2b of the container 2 facing and stably constrained to each other.

Still in other words, the facing surfaces defining the pleats 27 of the container 2 are all in contact with each other and further can be stably constrained (stably fixed). The constraint can be determined between portions of the first and/or second prevalent development surfaces.

By analyzing the structure of the container in FIG. 3, it is possible to define the constraint (fixing) configuration of the pleats 27 by the portions of the sectors 21 and 22. For example, by considering the constraint of the portions of the first prevalent development surface 2a (outer surface), it is possible to specify that the second sectors 22 exhibit at least one portion 23 defined by the layer from a first sector 21, facing and constrained to the junction portion 25. Alternatively, by considering the constraint of the portions of the second prevalent development surface 2b (inner surface), it is possible to specify that the portion 24 defined by the layer from the first sector 21 adjacent to the preceding one, faces and is constrained to the junction portion 25.

Still, in other words, it is possible to identify the constraint (fixing) of the surfaces of the pleats by the above described lap (element 30) structure and illustrated in FIG. 4; de facto, in such case it is possible to specify that the first and second portions 33, 34 of the first surface 2a can be constrained to each other and/or the first and second portions 35, 36 of the second surface 2b can be constrained to each other.

De facto, the container 2 lateral wall 4 comprises a plurality of pleats 27 formed by an excess of paper material, which exhibit a plurality of paper material surfaces overlapped and fixedly constrained to each other. The constraint is obtained, in a non limiting way, by (heat) sealing the pleats 27 during the step of drawing the container 2, indeed at least one of the two surfaces 2a and/or 2b of the container 2 can comprise a plastic film which, in the presence of heat and pressure, melts in order to enable to join the overlapped portions. This phenomenon enables to obtain a lateral wall sufficiently stiffened to oppose (by bulging) to the supply pressures which the capsule 1 will be then subjected to.

As it is possible to observe in the attached figures, the pleats 27 exhibit, according to the cross-section, a substantially “Z” outline: such outline, as previously said, exhibits a development having an increasing trend away from the base 3.

By observing the attached figures, it is possible to note that the pleats 27 are substantially identical to each other: such configuration is due to the shape of the container 2 before the deforming step. Particularly, the container 2 disk shape (before the deforming step—FIG. 6) enables to uniformly deform this latter during the deforming step.

Still more particularly, it is possible to note from the attached figured that the pleats are placed according to a uniform trend along the lateral wall 4 and along said edge portion 6. Particularly, the pleats 27 are substantially evenly spaced from each other.

It is possible to note that the base 3, lateral wall 4 and edge portion 6 are made in a single piece. Specifically, as it will be better described in the following, the container 2, under the operative condition, is formed by a paper material single sheet.

As discussed, the container 2, under the operative condition, defines said holding cavity 5, the inner surface thereof is defined by the second surface 2b of the container 2 itself. The holding cavity 5, as it will be illustrated in the following description, is configured for enabling to hold a predetermined quantity of at least one powdered concentrate, such as for example a food substance, adapted to produce said beverage.

The volume of the holding cavity 5 can be a greater than 300 mm³, for example, particularly greater than 500 mm³, still more particularly greater than 700 mm³. More particularly, the inner volume of the holding cavity 5 is the less than 1,200 mm³, particularly less than 1,000 mm³, still more particularly less than 900 mm³.

As it is possible to observe from the attached figures, the container 2 of sheet material, previously the deforming step, could comprise, on at least one portion of the first and/or second surfaces 2a, 2b, a slippery material. This latter has the object of making easier to arrange the container 2 from the flat configuration to the three-dimensional one. Particularly, the slippery material enables the container 2 to resist to deformation, preventing ruptures or tears in the sheet material. For better understanding the purpose of the slippery material, it can be said that the container 2, during the deforming step, is subjected to a high stress due to the deformation, substantial along vertical direction of the paper and due to the following necessary folding of the same. Therefore, the slippery material enables to decrease the stresses on the container 2 during the step of deforming this latter and therefore to prevent possible ruptures or tears in the material which could compromise the capsule 1 structural integrity. Particularly, the slippery material is placed on at least one portion of the paper sheet material, which, under the container 2 operative condition, is placed on the lateral wall 4. However, generally the entire first surface 2a and/or entire surface 2b is provided with such material.

The slippery material comprises, on at least one portion of the lateral wall 4, at least one silicone material layer. Alternatively, as discussed, it is possible to apply the slippery material on the whole first surface 2a of the container 2. The slippery material quantity will be comprised between 0.05 g/m² and 1 g/m². Particularly, such quantity will be comprised between 0.2 and 0.9 g/m² (for example about 0.6 g/m²). Preferentially, the slippery material, at the cited quantities, will be silicone. Further, it is preferred to use calendered papers which do not completely absorb the slippery material (for example silicone).

As it is visible for example in FIGS. 7, 9 and 10, further the capsule 1 can comprise at least one stiffening body 14 coupled to the container 2 inside the holding cavity 5 at the base 3. The stiffening body 14 is a disk-shaped laminated body and is made of paper and/or plastic material: as for the container 2, the material of the stiffening element 14 is recyclable and/or biodegradable and/or compostable. The same body comprises a central through cavity 15 and a peripheral edge 16; particularly the central cavity 15 is substantially circular and axially aligned with the circular peripheral edge 16 (see for example FIG. 10).

More particularly, the stiffening body 14, and particularly the peripheral edge 16 thereof, has a top size substantially equal to the size of the container 2 base 3. For example, a perimetral end band 17 of the stiffening body 14 is, under the assembled configuration, in contact or partially overlapped with the lateral wall 4 (see for example FIG. 10). In other words, the stiffening body 14 has a circular symmetry being defined by a disk, particularly a centrally hollow one. Such body 14 is coupled to at least the base 3 outer portion 3b, and particularly the central cavity 15 is placed at the flat central portion 3a.

As it is visible in FIGS. 7 and 10, in a cross-section according to a plane normal to a development axis X of the container, the stiffening body exhibits at least two main segments 26, which are respectively coupled to the first and third segments 18, 20 of the base 3. It is observed that the embodiment in FIGS. 10 and 11 is devoid of such element 14.

Further, the capsule 1 comprises a reinforcing element 38 stably engaged with the edge portion 6 and exhibiting a central cavity 11 adapted to enable to gain access to the container holding cavity 5. The reinforcing element 37 covers at least the inner perimeter outside the edge portion 6 to define a closed outline around the container 2 cavity 5.

As it is visible from the cross-section view in FIG. 8, the reinforcing element 38 comprises substantially a first and second peripheral edges 12, 9 joined in a single piece, which covers at least partially the edge portion 6. The first peripheral edge is engaged and in direct contact with the upper surface 6b of the edge portion 6, while the second peripheral edge 9 is engaged and in direct contact with the lower surface 6a of the container 2 edge portion 6.

Specifically, the reinforcing element 38 is defined by a ring molded astride of the edge portion 6 in order to completely incorporate it by gripping to this latter.

The first peripheral edge 12 defines an upper ring engaged with an upper surface 6b of the container 2 edge portion 6.

The first peripheral edge 12 exhibits an abutment portion 39 facing away from the base 3, and exhibiting a substantially smooth closure surface 40. The closure surface 40 is devoid of pleats and/or bumps and is configured for engagingly receiving at least one closure laminated element 13 which will be better described in the following. The reinforcing element 38 closure surface 40 extends all around the opening of the container 2 holding cavity 5 to define a closed outline.

In a preferred but non limiting embodiment of the invention, the first peripheral edge 12 of the reinforcing element 38 comprises an inner band 12a and an outer band 12b both engaged with the container 2; the inner band 12a is at least partially overlapped on the edge portion and partially on the container 2 lateral wall 4, while the outer band 12b is exactly placed on the container 2 edge portion 6. The outer band 12b of the first peripheral edge 12 carries the abutment portion 39, consequently the closure surface 40, of the reinforcing element 38.

The attached figures illustrate, in a non limiting way, a first edge portion 12 countershaped to the edge portion 6 and therefore exhibiting an annular shape having a radial size greater than the edge portion 6 radial size.

The first peripheral edge 12 has, in a cross-section according to a plane passing for the container development axis X, an outline slightly curved from a substantially flat radially most outward area to a radially inward area and partially overlapped on the most curved lateral wall 4.

From the material point of view, also the first peripheral edge 12 is made of a recyclable and/or biodegradable and/or compostable material, for example of MATERBI® or a similar material.

As hereinbefore discussed, the reinforcing element comprises a second edge portion 9 covering, in a non limiting way, the entire lower surface 6a of the edge portion 6 to define a closed outline continuous element around the container 2 opening. Then, it is observed that the second peripheral edge 9 of the reinforcing element 38 exhibits a substantially smooth lower surface facing the container 2 base 3, in other words devoid of pleats and/or bumps.

As it is visible from the detail in FIG. 8, also the second peripheral edge 9 of the reinforcing element 38 comprises an inner band 9a and an outer band 9b both coupled to the container 2; the inner band 9a is placed below and partially coupled to the container 2 lateral wall 4 and partially to the edge portion 6, while the outer band 9b is placed exactly below the edge portion and is stably constrained to this latter.

From the geometrical point of view, the second peripheral edge 9 follows, in a non limiting way, the shape of the edge portion; de facto, in the attached figures (the disk-shape edge portion) the second edge 9 exhibits an annular shape having a radial size greater than the radial size of the edge portion 6. The second peripheral edge 9 has, in a cross-section according to a plane passing for the container 2 development axis X, a slightly curved outline from a substantially flat most radially outward area to a radially inward area and partially overlapped with the most curved lateral wall 4.

In other words, the second peripheral edge 9 is substantially formed by a ring coupled below the container 2 edge portion 6 (and possibly partially follows a short leading portion of the lateral wall 4), wherein the outer peripheral portion of the ring projects besides the edge portion 6.

The second peripheral edge 9 is made of a recyclable and/or biodegradable and/or compostable material. Advantageously, the first peripheral edge 9 is made of MATERBI®, or another compostable and/or biodegradable plastic.

De facto, the inner reinforcing element 38 is completely made of a recyclable and/or biodegradable and/or compostable plastic material. Under such condition, the capsule 1, formed by the container 2 and reinforcing element 38, is completely recyclable and/or biodegradable and/or compostable.

Advantageously, the first and second peripheral portions 12, 9 are joined (and generally made of) in a single piece to define a single reinforcing ring coupled to the edge portion 6. The first peripheral edge 12 defines an upper ring engaged with an upper surface 6b of the edge portion 6 of the container 2: the edge portion 6 being interposed between said peripheral edges 9, 12.

The first and second peripheral edges 12, 9 can emerge from the edge portion 6 of the container 2 and are joined in a single piece by a connecting portion 41 of the reinforcing element 38 (see FIG. 8, for example). Advantageously, the connecting portion 41 covers the entire outer perimeter of the edge portion 6 to join in a single piece the first and second edges 12, 9.

The first edge 12, second edge 9 and connecting portion 41 of the connecting element define, according to a cross-section, a substantially “C” outline receiving inside the concavity thereof the edge portion 6 (the edge portion is incorporated inside the reinforcing element 38).

In an embodiment (see FIGS. 7 and 8, for example), the first peripheral edge 12 and second peripheral edge 9 exhibit the same annular shape and substantially the same size. Viceversa, in the embodiment of FIG. 17, it is illustrated an embodiment variant of the reinforcing element 38 in which the first edge 12 and second edge 9 exhibit the same radial size but a different shape. Specifically, the second peripheral edge 9 exhibits an outer surface (lower surface) completely smooth having a substantially hyperbolic development. Also the upper surface of the first edge 12 is substantially smooth, however, in comparison with the second edge 9, it can be provided with seats 42 having a concavity facing away from the container 2 base 3.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 17, there are, in a non limiting way, two seats 42: a first seat having a substantially “U” shape overlapped with the edge portion 6 and a second seat having a substantially “V” shape placed outside the outer radial perimeter 44 of the edge portion 6. Advantageously, the seats 42 extend along the whole circular development of the first edge 12 around the container 2 opening to define a closed outline. Further embodiments of the capsule 1, not illustrated, can provide just one seat 42 or a plurality of seats 42 or no seat at all (condition not illustrated in the attached figures).

It is noted that the first and second edges 12, 9 of the capsule 1, besides stiffening the edge 6 annular portion, incorporate this latter by forming a “sandwich” and exhibit a most outward band devoid of the interposed edge portion wherein the same reinforcements are coupled to each other.

Such most outward coupling (preferably directly) band, between the edges 9, 12, extends all around the contour of the opening to ensure the pressurized fluid-tightness of the capsule.

In other words, the pressurized fluid that could penetrate between the edge portion 6 pleats 27, cannot follow its path because the first and second edges 12, 9 (the upper edge and lower edge, respectively) are coupled to each other by the connecting portion 41 to define a single piece, so that the fluid is positively contained and cannot leak out. Further, the finishing of the reinforcing element 38 closure surface 40 ensures a possibility of an optimal and tight coupling with the laminated element 13.

Lastly, the flatness of such edges 9 and 12 enables, also during a manufacturing step, to exert high pressures distributing uniformly themselves at the upper annular band of the capsule, to increase the coupling performances of the different parts.

As previously described, the reinforcing element 38 advantageously extends on the edge portion 6 and possibly on a portion of the lateral wall 4. In an embodiment variant of the capsule object of the present invention, the reinforcing element 38 can comprise a three-dimensional frame following the development of the paper material container 2. For example, the frame can comprise at least one connecting rib 45 (see the cross-section view in FIG. 10) which extends along the container lateral wall 4 for being connected to the stiffening element 14. De facto, the wall 45, which is also made of a recyclable and/or biodegradable and/or compostable plastic material, stably connects the reinforcing element 38 and stiffening element 14 to define a single stiffening and reinforcing element made in a single piece.

In the embodiment of FIG. 10, the connecting rib 45 is placed, in a non limiting way, inside the container 2. Alternatively, the connecting rib 45 can extend outside the container 2 and, by the reinforcing element 38, define a kind of “supporting frame” of the container 2 itself.

The stiffening frame can comprise one or more ribs defining a kind of cage inside and/or outside the container 2. Alternatively, the stiffening frame can define a completely solid contour or covering wall (a wall adapted to cover the entire lateral wall 4 of the container 2).

Further, it is an object of the present description also a capsule 1 comprising at least one laminated element 13 closing the holding cavity 5 coupled to at least the second peripheral edge 12 in order to close an access to the housing compartment.

The laminated element 13 comprises a paper sheet material, such as filter paper and/or a plastic sheet material. De facto, the element 13 can be totally made of paper or plastics; alternatively, it can comprise an area made of paper and an area made of plastic material. This latter example is illustrated in the embodiment in FIG. 13 showing, in a non limiting way, a laminated element 13 exhibiting an outer disk 13c, for example of plastic material, and an inner disk (central disk) made of paper (filter paper).

The closure element 13 exhibits a first and second surfaces 13a, 13b opposite to each other; the first surface 13a of the laminated element 13 faces the container 2 and is coupled to at least the first peripheral edge 12 of the reinforcing element. Particularly, the element 13 is stably coupled to the smooth closure surface 40.

The laminated element 13 is configured to define an operative condition in which the container 2, placed in the three-dimensional condition, cooperating with said element 13, enables to define, inside the holding cavity, a closed volume.

As it is possible to observe from the attached figures, the laminated element 13 is placed, when closing the semi-finished capsule 1 of FIG. 12, at the first peripheral edge 12 which, as discussed, advantageously has a smooth or substantially smooth upper surface; at least the portion of the first element 13 surface 13a is in contact with at least one portion of the first edge 12 of the reinforcing element 38.

As it is understandable, the covering laminated element 13 for defining inside the holding cavity 5 a closed inner volume, must exhibit a minimum size greater than the size of the free edge (“minimum” means the development in width and length of the covering element 13).

As it is possible to note in the attached figures, the laminated element 13 substantially extends in a prevalent development plane, particularly exhibits, in a non limiting way, a substantially circular shape defined by a disk.

Alternatively, the laminated element 13 can exhibit a substantially flat configuration defining a substantially polygonal or elliptical shape.

The laminated element 13 enables the capsule 1 to hold and at the same time filter the fluid flowing from the capsule 1 itself. Specifically, the laminated element 13 must enable a selective passage of fluids or, better, must ensure to keep the food substance inserted in the capsule 1 inside the holding compartment 5 and must simultaneously enable the water to enter (or eventually the beverage to exit—according to the direction of the flowing water).

In order to perform such task, the laminated element 13 could, for example, comprise at least one filter paper (or filtering paper) portion configured for enabling the fluids to selectively pass and capture the food substance particles (the ground coffee, for example). Such filtering paper portion is placed on at least a portion of the covering element placed inside the free edge; in such a way, the fluid passing from the capsule can be mixed with the food substance present inside the housing 5. Generally, the entire laminated element 13 is completely made of a filter paper.

Alternatively, the same laminated element 13 could comprise standard paper, also hydrophobic paper and be suitable perforated in the dispensing step, for example by needles or similar devices of the dispensing machine. Alternatively, further, the laminated element could formed by a plastic film, for example of recyclable and/or biodegradable and/or compostable material (for example MATERBI®).

The laminated element 13, under the operative condition, when the capsule is exhausted, is stably constrained (even though indirectly by the interposition of the upper reinforcement) to the container 2; particularly, the constraint between the covering element 13 and edge 12 is a constraint obtained by heat-sealing. Particularly, the constraint between the covering element 13 and the reinforcing element 38 is made without externally applying glue, but by exploiting the plastic smooth surface of the first edge 12 on which the element 13 is heat-sealed.

With reference to the second embodiment in FIGS. 15 and 16, it is observed that the same exhibits a plan view greater than the one of the capsules illustrated in the preceding drawings and a smaller height (axis X).

Further, the capsule in FIGS. 15 and 16 does not have any stiffening element 14, and the base 3 is completely flat and connected on the periphery to the lateral wall 4 with a small radius of curvature. Lastly, with reference to the upper edge of the lateral wall 4, it is present at least one abutment ring 28 defined by an abrupt cross-section widening of the lateral wall 4.

It is observed that both the first edge 12 and second edge 9 (one or the other, alternatively) could extend to cover such abutment ring 28 as clearly shown in the attached photographs. All the remaining technical previously described features are still present in both the illustrated embodiments.

Process for Making a Capsule

Further, the invention refers to a process for making a capsule for producing beverages, particularly a capsule according to one or more of the attached claims.

A first step of the process provides to make the capsule 1 container 2 by a step of drawing a flat element 37 of paper material. The sheet flat element 37 extends between the first and second prevalent development surfaces 2a, 2b delimiting the thickness of the sheet; as hereinbefore described, at least one of said first and second prevalent development surfaces 2a, 2b comprises a plastic film covering said surface, for example an extrusion-coating adapted to contact food (food grade).

FIG. 11 illustrates a preferred embodiment of the flat element 37 extending along a prevalent development plane to define a disk and exhibiting a substantially circular outline: such shape enables to define, at the end of the disk 37 drawing step, the “frusto-conical” container 2 illustrated in FIG. 1, for example.

The drawing step is schematically illustrated in FIG. 11: the disk is interposed between a punch 100 defining a projection exhibiting, in a non limiting way, a cylindrical symmetry around a development axis A. The punch 100 is laterally delimited by a wall 100a which, during the step of deforming and forming the container, is configured for contacting/deforming the inner surface of this latter.

In front of the punch 100, with respect to the disk 37, there is a die 101 which is at least partially countershaped to the punch 100. Particularly, the die 101 defines a cavity laterally delimited by a wall 101a which, during the step of deforming and forming the container 2, is configured for cooperating with the punch 100 lateral wall 100a for forming said container 2.

The shapes of the punch and die, besides defining the base 3, the lateral portion 4, are adapted to define, during the step of drawing the disk 37, the edge portion 6 (the outwardly lapped end edge of the container 2).

Further, the shape of the surfaces which will get in contact between the punch 100 and die 101, is shaped to define the ordered and guided formation of the pleats 27 which are advantageously present on the lateral wall 4 and edge portion 6 of the container.

As hereinbefore described, the flat element can be coated at least partially by a plastic material film. Simultaneously or after the step of deforming the container, the process provides a step of thermoforming the container so that the portions contacting the pleats 27 on which the plastic film is present, can be welded to each other and therefore stably engaging with each other. De facto, heating the container 2 covered by the plastic film, enables to melt the film and sealing the same to a portion in contact with this latter.

Advantageously, the process can provide a step of heat-molding the container 2; in such step, during the step of deforming the flat element, the mold is heated in order to melt the plastic film covering at least partially the first and/or second prevalent development surfaces; under such condition, at the end of the deforming (molding) step, the at least partially melt plastic film, interposed between two contacting portions of a pleat 27, enables to seal these latter. Fixing the contacting portions of the pleats 27 enables to confer a greater rigidity to the container which could stably hold the three-dimensional shape.

Following the step of drawing the container 2, the process can comprise a step of placing the stiffening body 14 at the container 2 base 3. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the drawing step can be implemented both by forming the container 2 and placing the body 14. As already described hereinbefore, the stiffening body 14 is adapted to hold/support the container during the use of the capsule in order to prevent undesired deformations of the container 2 itself which can compromise the capsule operation.

After the step of forming the containers, the same can be stacked, as shown in FIG. 12, and can be moved to another plant adapted to perform the successive manufacturing steps. Alternatively, the containers 2 can continuously follow a single manufacturing line which can provide all the capsule 1 manufacturing steps.

After forming the container 2, the process can provide a step of constraining the reinforcing element 38 to the container 2, particularly constraining the reinforcing element 38 on at least a part of the edge portion 6. Advantageously, the reinforcing element 38 is directly made on the container 2 through a molding process, particularly a thermo-molding. De facto, the steps of deforming, fixing the pleats and engaging the reinforcing element on the container can be performed substantially simultaneously by a single molding step.

Specifically, the step of constraining the reinforcing element 38 provides a step wherein the container 2 is inserted into a mold comprising in a non limiting way a die side 104 and a punch side 105; the die side 104 (cavity) is adapted to receive the container 2 outer surface and define on this latter at least the second edge 9 (the lower edge of the reinforcing element 38), while the punch side 105 (projection) is adapted to receive at least partially the container 1 inner surface and define on this latter at least the first edge 12 (upper edge of the reinforcing element 38). The step of constraining (molding) the reinforcing element 38 can further provide to make the connecting rib 45 inside and/or outside the container 2.

What is obtainable by the constraining step is clearly and specifically shown in FIG. 8: the reinforcing element 38 edge 9 is coupled to the edge 12 by the connecting portion 41. The connecting portion 41 can be made on the punch side and/or die side.

The process provides to insert inside the container 2 a predetermined quantity of coffee. Such step can be performed just after the positioning of the stiffening body 14 or just after positioning and fixing the reinforcing element 38. After inserting the coffee, the process provides to close the container 2 by positioning and fixing the laminated element 13 on the reinforcing element 38 (along the peripheral edge 12) to define said beverage capsule 1.

As previously described, fixing the laminated element 13 on a uniform/smooth portion, such as the edge 12 closure surface 40, ensures to stably and strongly grip together the element 13 and edge 12; such constrain/grip would be impossible to be obtained by the constraint of the laminated element 13 on the irregular (pleated) surface of the container 2 edge 6.

While at least one exemplary embodiment of the present invention(s) is disclosed herein, it should be understood that modifications, substitutions and alternatives may be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art and can be made without departing from the scope of this disclosure. This disclosure is intended to cover any adaptations or variations of the exemplary embodiment(s). In addition, in this disclosure, the terms “comprise” or “comprising” do not exclude other elements or steps, the terms “a” or “one” do not exclude a plural number, and the term “or” means either or both. Furthermore, characteristics or steps which have been described may also be used in combination with other characteristics or steps and in any order unless the disclosure or context suggests otherwise.

Claims

1. A capsule for producing beverages, comprising at least one container of paper material, said container comprising:

a base,

a lateral wall transversally emerging from the base to define a holding cavity adapted to receive a predetermined quantity of a powdered food substance adapted to enable to produce a beverage, the lateral wall defining, oppositely to the base, an opening of the container,

an edge portion, placed at the container opening defined by the lateral wall, transversally emerging from the lateral wall away from the holding cavity and exhibiting at least one lower surface substantially facing the container base and at least one upper surface facing away from the lower surface with respect to the edge portion itself, the base, the lateral wall and the edge portion of the container being made in a single piece,

and wherein the container is made from a paper sheet having a first and second prevalent development surfaces, at least partially the first surface being adapted to define the outer surface of the container, while at least partially the second surface being adapted to define an inner surface of the container,

and wherein at least the container lateral wall comprises a plurality of pleats defining overlapping areas of the paper sheet material, and wherein said first and second prevalent development surfaces exhibit overlapping areas wherein portions of the same surface are in contact with each other, a plurality of portions of the same first and/or second prevalent development surfaces being stably constrained to each other.

2. The capsule according to claim 1, wherein each pleat exhibits at least two portions of said first prevalent development surface of the container, facing and stably constrained to each other.

3. The capsule according to claim 1, wherein each pleat exhibits at least two portions of said second prevalent development surface of the container, facing and stably constrained to each other.

4. The capsule according to claim 1, wherein the pleats exhibit a prevalent development having an increasing trend from the base towards the edge portion, and wherein the pleats extend along the whole lateral wall and along the container edge portion.

5. The capsule according to claim 1, wherein the container extends from the base to the opening of the container itself along a longitudinal development axis,

the pleats, according to a cross-section normal to the container development axis, comprise a plurality of first sectors extending at least along the perimetral development of the lateral wall, said first sectors being defined by a layer of said paper material container, interposed by a plurality of second sectors defined by an overlap of plural layers of the container, the second sectors comprising at least one portion defined by the layer from a first sector, at least one portion defined by the layer from the first sector adjacent to the preceding one and from at least one junction portion connecting, without interruption, the other two portions in order to define an overlap of at least three layers of said container,

and wherein the second sectors exhibit at least one portion defined by the layer from a first sector, facing and constrained to the junction portion, and/or

wherein the portion defined by the layer from the first sector adjacent to the preceding one, faces and is constrained to the junction portion.

6. The capsule according to claim 1, wherein the container is obtained by deforming a flat sheet extending between the first and second prevalent development surfaces, said container, after the deforming step, arranging itself in an operative condition, wherein the container itself defines the holding cavity the inner surface thereof is defined at least partially by the second prevalent development surface, while the outer surface is defined at least partially by the first prevalent development surface,

and wherein the pleats are configured for enabling, during the deforming step, to place the container from the sheet flat configuration to a three-dimensional operative configuration.

7. The capsule according to claim 1, comprising at least one plastic film covering the first and/or second prevalent development surfaces configured for constraining, by thermoforming, the portions of the same first and/or second prevalent development surfaces of an overlapping area.

8. The capsule according to claim 1, comprising at least one reinforcing element stably engaged with the container edge portion and exhibiting a central cavity adapted to enable to gain access to the holding cavity of the container itself,

said reinforcing element comprising at least one first peripheral edge engaged with the upper surface of the container edge portion, the first peripheral edge extending around the container holding cavity and defines a closed outline.

9. The capsule according to the claim 8, wherein the first peripheral edge of the reinforcing element covers the whole upper surface of the container edge portion,

and wherein the first peripheral edge of the reinforcing element comprises an abutment portion facing away from the container base, said abutment portion exhibiting at least one closure surface having a substantially smooth surface defining a closed outline around the container opening.

10. The capsule according to claim 8, wherein the reinforcing element is completely made of plastic material by thermoforming, particularly thermo-molding, the same element on the container edge portion.

11. The capsule according to claim 1, comprising at least one stiffening body coupled to the container inside the holding cavity at the base,

and wherein the stiffening body is a laminated body, at least made partially of plastic and/or paper material, comprising at least one central through cavity and a peripheral edge, particularly the central cavity being substantially circular.

12. The capsule according to claim 11, wherein the base comprises at least one flat central portion and an outer portion connecting with the lateral wall and contiguous to the flat portion with a trend sloped with respect to the flat portion, in a cross-section along a plane normal to a development axis of the container, the base comprises a first segment emerging from the lateral wall and sloped with respect to the same, a second flat segment extending from the first sloped segment and a third segment extending from the second flat segment and sloped with respect to the same,

and wherein the stiffening body is coupled to at least the base outer portion,

and wherein the central cavity of the stiffening body is placed at the flat central portion, in a cross-section along a plane normal to the container development axis, the stiffening body exhibiting at least two main lengths which are respectively coupled to the first and third segments.

13. The capsule according to claim 8, comprising at least one laminated element closing the holding cavity, coupled, particularly substantially fluid-tightly, to the reinforcing element for closing an access to the holding cavity,

and wherein the laminated element is stably constrained, by thermoforming or sealing, to an upper closure surface of the second peripheral edge facing away from the base.

14. A capsule for producing beverages, comprising at least one container of paper material, said container comprising:

a base,

a lateral wall transversally emerging from the base to define a holding cavity adapted to receive a predetermined quantity of a powdered food substance adapted to enable to produce the beverage, the lateral wall defining, oppositely to the base, an opening of the container,

an edge portion, placed at the container opening, defined by the lateral wall, transversally emerging from the lateral wall away from the holding cavity and exhibiting at least one lower surface substantially facing the container base and at least one upper surface facing away from the lower surface with respect to the edge portion itself, the base, the lateral wall and the edge portion of the container being made in a single piece,

at least one reinforcing element of plastic material stably engaged with the container edge portion and exhibiting a central cavity adapted to enable to gain access to the container holding cavity, said reinforcing element comprising at least one first peripheral edge engaged with the upper surface of the container edge portion,

and wherein the container is made from a paper sheet having a first and second prevalent development surfaces, at least partially the first surface being adapted to define an outer surface of the container, while at least partially the second surface being adapted to define an inner surface of the container, at least one of said first and second prevalent development surfaces being covered by a plastic material film,

and wherein at least the container lateral wall comprises a plurality of pleats defining overlapping areas of the paper sheet material, and wherein said first and second prevalent development surfaces exhibit overlapping areas, wherein portions of the same surface are in contact with each other, a plurality of portions of the same first and/or second prevalent development surfaces being stably constrained to each other by thermo-sealing the plastic film.