Capsule for preparing a beverage

Abstract

The invention relates to a capsule for preparing a beverage, for example coffee, comprising a hollow element intended to contain a metered amount, for example of ground coffee, said hollow element including a side wall, a top wall and a bottom wall comprising an extraction membrane; the top wall comprising, on the inner surface thereof, a weakened area capable of moving when an external element exerts a force thereon, thereby providing a passage for the liquid to flow between the outside and the inside of the capsule

1 . A capsule ( 1 ) for preparing a beverage, for example coffee, comprising a hollow element intended to contain a portion, e.g. of ground coffee, said hollow element comprising a side wall ( 2 ), a top wall ( 3 ) and a bottom wall ( 4 ) comprising an extraction membrane; the top wall ( 3 ) comprising on its internal face a weakened zone ( 11 ) designed to undergo a movement when an external element ( 12 ) applies force to it, thus offering a passage via which liquid can flow between the outside and the inside of the capsule ( 1 ). 
     
     
         2 . The capsule as claimed in  claim 1 , in which said weakened zone is in the form of beading the edges of which are of a thickness less than the mean thickness of the top wall. 
     
     
         3 . The capsule as claimed in  claim 1 , in which the cross section of the weakened zone is greater than the cross section of said external element. 
     
     
         4 . The capsule as claimed in  claim 1 , comprising lateral cavities with which internal protrusions are associated. 
     
     
         5 . The capsule as claimed in  claim 1 , comprising elements which reinforce its rigidity. 
     
     
         6 . The capsule as claimed in  claim 5 , in which said reinforcing elements are positioned on the top wall of the capsule. 
     
     
         7 . The capsule as claimed in  claim 5 , in which said reinforcing elements are positioned on the side wall of the capsule. 
     
     
         8 . A capsule for preparing a beverage, for example coffee, which capsule is made of a biodegradable material containing the following elements: starch (>70%), fibers, proteins, lipids and at least one biodegradable resin.