EP1462042A1 - Disposable package for the distribution of a liquid pumpable by a Venturi device - Google Patents

Abstract

The package has a closed storage containing pumpable dietary liquid e.g. milk. A collecting unit collects a sub-set of suction and mixture of venture type and a sealing unit seals the package. A stack crossing bottom (7) and a lid, collects dietary liquid within the package by piercing or by removing lid. The sealing unit cooperates in an open manner with the suction and mixture sub-set in a passage of the collecting unit. An independent claim is also included for a method of production and distribution of a preparation in a hygienic manner.

Description

The present invention relates to disposable packaging containing one or more several doses of a liquid which can be withdrawn by pumping, in particular by a venturi effect device in order to be distributed for example in heated form and / or foamed or emulsified depending on the nature of said liquid. Although the invention preferentially relates to the food sector for the production of beverages frothed with milk, it is by no means limited to the food sector and can be applied to any product that can be pumped from packaging such as cosmetic products in the form of pumpable creams or the like.

The invention also relates to a method for producing a preparation, such as a possibly frothed drink, from a liquid pumpable by example a liquid food contained in a disposable packaging.

For clarity of the following description, the term "liquid food" means basic edible product intended to be transformed and / or modified to produce a "food preparation" in liquid form having the desired taste qualities. The liquid food contained in the packaging can be in the form of a product whole, a concentrate, an extract such as milk, cream, tea, coffee, a soup concentrate or an aromatic extract, for example with vanilla.

By "pumpable liquid" is meant any liquid, or semi-liquid preparation, whose viscosity allows it to be pumped.

"Venturi device" means a suction sub-assembly comprising a chamber into which a conveying channel for a carrier fluid arrives put under pressure by a constriction so as to create a suction by effect of depression at the outlet of a constriction in at least one channel connecting said chamber and the packaging containing the liquid food, the carrier fluid can be liquid or gas, water vapor, hot or cold water or air or mixture of these. This suction sub-assembly makes it possible to modify the liquid and distribute it as a heated and / or frothed preparation or emulsified in combination with a gas, such as milkshake, soft drinks milk-based, e.g. flavored, coffee, tea, chocolate, soup or preparations for cappuccinos or moccachinos.

The invention will be illustrated by way of example with packaging containing milk, intended to be heated and frothed to obtain a "cappuccino", by adapting to a such packaging a venturi effect device to be secured to the outlet tubing pressurized steam from an espresso machine to make a preparation air-milk-steam frother. In the case of packaging containing a liquid food simply asking to be heated, it is obvious that the device venturi effect will not have an air inlet.

The most common way to obtain such a frothy emulsion is to pour the desired amount of milk in a container, dip the steam outlet tubing in said container, while shaking it from top to bottom to entrain the air necessary to obtaining the foam. The quality of the foam obtained depends on the ability of the user who, when he is not a professional, can also undergo splashing. For hygienic reasons, it should be noted that cleaning the tubing and milk container is required after each use. In this concerning the economic aspect, the user must be able to collect the fair quantity of milk in standard packaging to avoid wastage.

To avoid some of the above-mentioned drawbacks, and in particular for obtain a more regular and homogeneous foam quality, various types of devices venturi effect have been proposed to serve as a kind of interface between the outlet steam from an espresso machine and a container with milk.

The simplest type of venturi device, described for example in US Patent 4,800,805, consists of an air supply tube secured to the manifold steam outlet and having its opening positioned below said outlet, the assembly to be immersed in a container containing the desired quantity of milk. The improvement described in US Patent 5,335,588 consists in making the supply of air attached to a sleeve itself adaptable to the steam pipe, the assembly must always be immersed in a container containing milk.

Patent EP 0 243 326 describes for example an accessory with a venturi effect adaptable to an espresso coffee machine, comprising a large number of parts allowing to have, in a suction chamber a steam inlet under pressure which results from the venturi effect, air through a first duct and through a second milk line from a tank incorporated in the machine or aspirated in standard packaging by means of a plunger connection pipe, this mixture then being injected into an emulsion chamber before leaving under form of frothy emulsion.

An improvement proposed in US Patent 5,265,519 corresponds to a simpler construction, with fewer parts to assemble to form the device venturi effect, and includes a splash guard at the ejection orifice of the frothy emulsion. When the packaging, the capacity of which is generally of a liter, is used in industrial catering, the liquid food is consumed fast enough that there is no need to take precautions to keep it, for example cool. For hygienic reasons, it nevertheless, it is necessary to clean the dip tube, and periodically the venturi effect device. This device also has the disadvantage of not allow the food liquid contained in the packaging to be completely emptied.

The patents EP 0 803 219 and EP 0 803 220 B1 also describe a device to prepare milk or cappuccino emulsified by pumping using two tubes plunging into a container of the "cardboard brick" type and connected to an effect device venturi. This device also requires frequent cleaning and maintenance of the packaging of milk at a refrigeration temperature by a system of cooling associated with the device.

Patent application WO 02/087400 relates to the preparation of a foam drink using a capsule containing a foaming ingredient. The principle consists of injecting a liquid into the capsule to achieve mixing, releasing the mix through the capsule in a receptacle and then inject more liquid in the form of a jet to produce a foamed liquid in the receptacle.

Patent application WO 01/58786 relates to a cartridge for the preparation of a foaming drink which includes near or directly to the outlet of the drink, restriction means making it possible to produce a jet of drink, at least one air inlet and means for generating a reduction in pressure. The mixing of the drink is carried out in a mixing compartment located upstream of the restriction means and sufficient overpressure is necessary in the compartment for passing the drink through means of restriction. Such a cartridge is suitable for extracting a drink from of a substance of the roasted-ground type.

When the packaging is used in a collective or family service environment, and knowing for example that a liter of milk makes 30 to 50 doses of cappuccino, it is necessary either to replace the packaging in a refrigerator after each use, either put it in a mini fridge fitted to the coffee machine, the hose can then be left permanently connected. This solution has the advantage of reducing the number of times the dip tube is cleaned, but has the disadvantage of making more expensive the equipment necessary for the production of the foaming emulsion and consequently increase the cost price of the product final consumable.

The main aim of the invention is therefore to overcome the drawbacks of the art above mentioned by providing a new type of packaging allowing, more easily and more quickly, to reheat and also, preferably to foam in at the same time, a pumpable preparation such as a liquid food in better hygienic and economical conditions.

With a foaming product, such as milk contained in such a package, it is thus possible to obtain a regular foam in quality and quantity without requiring modifications to a pressurized steam generator, or any other machine generating the fluid supplying the chamber of the device to venturi effect.

To this end, the invention relates to disposable packaging for distribution at least one food preparation, or others from at least one liquid pumpable contained in at least one closed compartment of the packaging. The packaging is characterized in that it comprises means for accommodating a sub-assembly suction and mixing venturi type and sealing means of packaging before use, for example by means of a sealed cover.

In one embodiment, the means for accommodating the sub-assembly suction include a passage forming for example a chimney. The passage is arranged to allow relative movement of the sub-assembly suction and mixing through said passage, opposite a hole formed in the cover.

In this case, the sealing means can advantageously be intended to cooperate in opening with the suction and mixing sub-assembly during a relative displacement of the suction and mixing sub-assembly in said passage so as to put the compartment in communication with the sub-assembly suction.

In a possible alternative, the means to accommodate the subset suction can be arranged to receive said sub-assembly so permanent without relative displacement; said subset then already being in communication with the compartment, and the sealing means being arranged to so as to isolate both the compartment and the sub-assembly from the external environment. In this case, the opening of the sealing means has the effect of discovering the sub-assembly suction and mixing.

In the case of a displacement of the suction sub-assembly to achieve opening, the suction sub-assembly is secured to the housing and able to move between a closed position in which the suction sub-assembly and mixing is disengaged from the sealing means and an open position in which the suction and mixing sub-assembly engages the opening sealing means.

According to another characteristic of the invention, the packaging is formed by a body comprising a chimney forming the housing of the suction and mixture, the body delimiting at least said compartment, and the means for sealing comprising a sealing cap which closes at least said sealing compartment.

According to yet another characteristic of the invention, the means of sealing include a seal ring which is sealed to the edge of the chimney and which is forced down by a relative displacement of the suction and mixing sub-assembly in the chimney.

In the following description, the means which make it possible to maintain the closed packaging, and those which allow it to be opened to port the nozzle with the liquid contained in the packaging, will be designated by "fixing means and opening ".

The invention also relates to disposable packaging for distribution at least one pumpable liquid by means of a suction sub-assembly and mixture called "venturi nozzle", adaptable to the tubing of a fluid generator under pressure. The packaging has a side wall, a bottom and a closure with a sealed lid. The packaging is characterized in that the cover has a hole and in that the bottom of the packaging is crossed by a chimney for housing the venturi nozzle, the end of said chimney being sealed at the edge of the hole in the lid from which the liquid will be drawn when the packaging is placed in the inverted position and printed on it relative movement of translation with respect to the nozzle.

The packaging according to the invention can be produced in shapes and with very diverse materials. It can be rigid, being made for example by thermoforming a plastic material or stamping a thin sheet metallic for example aluminum and having a contour for example circular, rectangular or hexagonal.

The packaging can also be flexible and form a flexible pocket comprising in the center, on one of its sides or at one of its ends the sub-assembly suction.

The packaging can have a capacity of a few milliliters to a few tens of milliliters, corresponding for example to the production of one or two cappuccinos when the liquid is milk, the packaging is in the form of a capsule circular with the chimney in its center, the cover then forming the element of upper closure of said capsule.

The set can also have a larger capacity, for example of a few deciliters. To avoid having a chimney that is too long, the cover is arranged above a low volume reserve in communication with the interior packaging, said reserve being formed laterally by an extension of the upper closing element, by a side wall and a bottom parallel to the bottom of packaging.

The suction subassembly associated with a packaging according to the invention is consisting of a nozzle comprising at least one liquid suction duct, at minus a gas supply pipe when you want to get a preparation foamy, at least one pressurized fluid inlet, at least one chamber suction in which the conduits communicate, and at least one outlet for the distribution of the preparation.

Depending on the type of nozzle used, the withdrawal of the liquid to feed the nozzle can be done in different ways.

According to a first embodiment, the hole made in the cover has a diameter smaller than the inside diameter of the chimney to form a ring extending inside the chimney, said ring being intended to be sealed or pinched at the end of a venturi effect nozzle, so that when printing on the package a relative movement in translation to bring the nozzle closer to the cover, in particular by a movement from top to bottom of the packaging relative to the maintenance in stationary position of the nozzle or vice versa, it causes total loosening or partial of the chimney cover to put the liquid contained in said packaging in communication with at least one communicating nozzle duct with the suction chamber.

According to a preferred embodiment, said packaging is placed communication with at least one nozzle duct communicating with the chamber and at least one duct communicating with the outside to balance the pressure and / or produce a frothy preparation.

In a preferred embodiment, the cover is curved towards the inside of the packaging before loosening, so that after loosening a cup into which the openings of the suction suction ducts of the nozzle are immersed, thus allowing optimal use of all the quantity of liquid contained in packaging.

According to another preferred embodiment, the part of the packaging of which apart the chimney is made, with reinforcing ribs and / or positioning of the nozzle, these ribs being formed for example by thermoforming, hollow in the bottom and the wall being oriented towards the chimney.

According to a second embodiment, the withdrawal of the liquid is carried out by piercing the seal between the chimney and the wall by means integral with the nozzle when printing a linear relative movement with respect to the packaging nozzle, for example from bottom to top or vice versa, to put the inside of the capsule in communication both with the outside and with the suction chamber of the nozzle. In this embodiment the cover must be made of a material easily drilled and the hole in the center must have a corresponding diameter substantially to the internal diameter of the chimney to allow the movement of the nozzle. These piercing means are constituted for example by at least two conduits having their ends bent at 180 °, one allowing the pumping of the liquid, the other used to balance the pressure inside the capsule. We can obviously have a larger number of conduit sets.

According to a variant of this second embodiment, preferably when the packaging has a small volume corresponding to that of a capsule. It is further possible to provide a partition to allow successive sampling multiple doses of the same liquid or to instantly mix liquids different can only be kept separately. In the latter case, a set of pressure and suction balancing duct is associated with each compartment. This latter goal could also be achieved by using sequentially at least two capsules. In this case, each compartment preferably comprises sealing means able to cooperate independently in opening, thus being able to connect the compartments with the suction sub-assembly and mixture.

As can be seen, the use of packaging according to the invention makes it possible to make the distribution of heated foamed and / or emulsified liquids, more hygienic and more economical in that, on the one hand there is no longer a dip tube, on the other hand the liquid remains isolated from the outside environment at the time of sampling and can be maintained without possible flow in the packaging compartment between each sample.

• ouvrir l'emballage; l'ouverture ayant pour effet de mettre en communication de manière sensiblement étanche le compartiment avec un moyen d'aspiration de type venturi;
• aspirer au moyen d'un fluide sous pression par effet de vide du liquide en dehors du compartiment pour l'amener dans le moyen d'aspiration de type venturi, lequel est en communication avec un fluide sous pression chauffé et éventuellement un gaz;
• mélanger du liquide alimentaire ou autre avec le fluide sous pression chauffé et éventuellement le gaz de manière à réchauffer et éventuellement émulsifier et/ou mousser la préparation alimentaire, et
• distribuer la préparation ainsi réchauffée et éventuellement émulsifiée.

A subject of the invention is also a method for the production and distribution of a food or other preparation in a hygienic manner, characterized in that it consists in having a disposable packaging comprising at least one food liquid contained in at least a packaging compartment. The method comprises the steps consisting, among other possibilities, of:

• open the packaging; the opening having the effect of placing the compartment in substantially sealed communication with a suction means of the venturi type;
• suction by means of a pressurized fluid by the effect of vacuum of the liquid outside the compartment to bring it into the suction means of venturi type, which is in communication with a heated pressurized fluid and optionally a gas;
• mixing edible or other liquid with the heated pressurized fluid and optionally the gas so as to reheat and optionally emulsify and / or foam the food preparation, and
• distribute the preparation thus warmed and possibly emulsified.

The pressurized fluid causing the vacuum effect is generally of the steam or hot water. When it comes to gas, it's usually air, but one could also use for example an inert gas.

The opening of the packaging is preferably achieved by the action of relative displacement of the venturi-type means with respect to the packaging, and so even more preferred, by guided movement in a housing of the packaging.

Such an opening configuration is particularly easy to use and does not does not require any specific training or qualification in the implementation of the method.

In a first embodiment, the opening of the packaging containing the liquid is made by breaking a sealed part of the packaging and by placing communication of the compartment containing the liquid by means of a nozzle of the type venturi by at least one conduit. In this case, preferably, the venturi-type means is integral with the packaging in leaktight connection with the compartment so as to ensure correct suction of the liquid and flow of the liquid without leakage outside. Such a mode is perfectly hygienic and does not cause loss of liquid that can soil the surroundings or cause a malfunction in the preparation.

The compartment may need to be rebalanced in pressure by setting communication of the compartment to an atmospheric pressure outlet using minus a pressure rebalancing conduit.

The pressurized fluid is preferably steam or hot water. The gas is preferably air but could be replaced by an inert gas, more strong or weaker foaming effect.

In a second embodiment, the compartment is opened by piercing of the packaging and communication of the compartment containing the liquid food with the venturi type means by at least one conduit supply and a pressure balancing pipe.

In a preferred mode, the venturi-type means is an integral part of the packaging and it is disposable with the packaging. Thus, such a configuration does not does not require cleaning the suction device, the risk of clogging related to prolonged use of nozzles does not exist since a new means suction is available for each use and maintenance operations are also minimal.

In another embodiment, the venturi-type means is part of a nozzle suitable to be connected and delivered with the packaging. The nozzle can be either disposable or reusable, for example by being delivered in a packaging containing a small number of capsules. The packaging is therefore more economical, because it is simpler in its design.

• la figure 1 est une vue éclatée en perspective d'un premier mode de réalisation d'un emballage selon l'invention associé à un sous-ensemble d'aspiration et de mélange adaptable à une tubulure d'un générateur de vapeur ;
• la figure 2 est une vue de côté de l'emballage représenté à la figure 1, le sous ensemble d'aspiration et de mélange ayant été omis ;
• la figure 3 est une coupe diamétrale agrandie de l'emballage représenté à la figure 2 ;
• la figure 4 est une; coupe longitudinale du sous-ensemble d'aspiration et de mélange représenté à la figure 1;
• la figure 5 est une vue en perspective du premier mode de réalisation de l'emballage de l'invention associé à un sous-ensemble d'aspiration et de mélange et illustrant un embout d'adaptation à une tubulure d'un générateur de vapeur ;
• la figure 6 est une vue en perspective partiellement arrachée de l'emballage représenté à la figure 5, l'emballage étant montré en position fermée et l'embout d'adaptation à une tubulure d'un générateur de vapeur étant monté sur le sous-ensemble d'aspiration;
• la figure 7 est une vue analogue à la figure 6 dans laquelle l'emballage est montré en position ouverte;
• la figure 8 est une vue analogue à la figure 5 illustrant une variante d'embout d'adaptation à une tubulure d'un générateur de vapeur ;
• la figure 9 est une vue en perspective partiellement arrachée d'un emballage selon l'invention associé d'une variante de réalisation du sous-ensemble d'aspiration et de mélange, l'emballage étant montré en position fermée ;
• la figure 10 est une vue analogue à la figure 9 dans laquelle l'emballage est montré en position ouverte;
• la figure 11 représente schématiquement en perspective partiellement arrachée un deuxième mode de réalisation d'un emballage selon l'invention associé à une autre variante de réalisation du sous ensemble d'aspiration et de mélange, l'emballage étant montré en position fermé ;
• la figure 12 est une vue analogue à la figure 11, l'emballage étant montré en position ouverte ;
• la figure 13 est une vue de dessous en perspective d'une variante du deuxième mode de réalisation d'un emballage selon l'invention ;
• la figure 14 est une vue en perspective d'un troisième mode de réalisation d'un emballage selon l'invention vu depuis le dessous ;
• la figure 15 représente le même emballage que celui de la figure 14, vu depuis le dessus;
• la figure 16 montre un détail de l'emballage représenté à la figure 14, et
• la figure 17 représente schématiquement un quatrième mode de réalisation d'un emballage selon l'invention.

Other characteristics and advantages of the present invention will appear on reading the description of examples, given by way of illustration and not limitation, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

• Figure 1 is an exploded perspective view of a first embodiment of a package according to the invention associated with a suction and mixing sub-assembly adaptable to a tube of a steam generator;
• Figure 2 is a side view of the package shown in Figure 1, the suction and mixing sub-assembly having been omitted;
• Figure 3 is an enlarged diametral section of the package shown in Figure 2;
• Figure 4 is one; longitudinal section of the suction and mixing sub-assembly shown in Figure 1;
• FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the first embodiment of the packaging of the invention associated with a suction and mixing sub-assembly and illustrating a nozzle for adaptation to a tube of a steam generator;
• Figure 6 is a partially cutaway perspective view of the packaging shown in Figure 5, the packaging being shown in the closed position and the adapter piece to a steam generator tube being mounted on the sub- suction set;
• Figure 7 is a view similar to Figure 6 in which the package is shown in the open position;
• FIG. 8 is a view similar to FIG. 5 illustrating a variant of a nozzle for adaptation to a tube of a steam generator;
• Figure 9 is a partially cutaway perspective view of a packaging according to the associated invention of an alternative embodiment of the suction and mixing sub-assembly, the packaging being shown in the closed position;
• Figure 10 is a view similar to Figure 9 in which the package is shown in the open position;
• FIG. 11 schematically shows a partially cutaway perspective view of a second embodiment of a package according to the invention associated with another alternative embodiment of the suction and mixing sub-assembly, the package being shown in the closed position;
• Figure 12 is a view similar to Figure 11, the package being shown in the open position;
• Figure 13 is a bottom perspective view of a variant of the second embodiment of a package according to the invention;
• Figure 14 is a perspective view of a third embodiment of a package according to the invention seen from below;
• Figure 15 shows the same packaging as that of Figure 14, seen from above;
• FIG. 16 shows a detail of the packaging shown in FIG. 14, and
• FIG. 17 schematically represents a fourth embodiment of a package according to the invention.

Referring first to FIGS. 1 to 8, a first mode is described below. in which the packaging has a generally toroidal shape and a small capacity.

Figure 1 shows an exploded perspective packaging according to the invention comprising a suction and mixing sub-assembly comprising a nozzle venturi effect designated by the general reference 1.

The nozzle 1 is associated with a package 2 having the shape of a closed capsule by a deformable cover 7 sealed on a flange 28 of said capsule. Packaging 2 has a chimney 9 going from the bottom 11 to the cover 7 which is provided with a opening 8 corresponding to the interior contour of a chimney 9. Opening 8 in the cover 7 can be entirely free, or partially closed by a mesh avoiding splashing of the ejected preparation, and improving its sparkling character. Typically, the capsule can be obtained in one piece by thermoforming or injection of a plastic material. In the example shown, the packaging has a generally toric shape.

The chimney 9 is designed to receive, on the bottom side 11 the nozzle 1, and on the side from the cover 7 a junction element 13 assembled at the base 14 of the nozzle 1 for form means for fixing and opening the package 2. In this first mode embodiment, the junction element 13 is fixed by screwing on the nozzle 1, but could be attached to it in any other way, such as by clipping.

Before use, the liquid inside the capsule is therefore isolated from the external medium and by gluing or sealing an internal ring 17 at the base of the chimney 9 and an outer ring 28 on the outer rim of the capsule, as shown in figure 3.

As can also be seen in Figures 2 and 3, in this first mode of embodiment, the capsule 2 has ribs 6a, 6b extending from the chimney 9 to the periphery. A first series of ribs 6a has a reinforcing role of capsule 2, and possibly partitioning as will be seen later. A second series of ribs 6b is provided to block the nozzle in rotation in the packaging, as will be explained with reference to Figures 6 and 7. We see also that the capsule 2 has on its outer wall 5a a plurality of lugs 18 allowing, according to one embodiment, to fix the packaging-capsule assembly to a pressurized fluid generator, as will be explained later.

A type of nozzle usable with this first embodiment of the packaging is now briefly described with reference to FIG. 4 and is the subject of a more detailed description in an application filed that same day by the Applicant entitled "Device for pumping a liquid from a packaging or of a container ", which is incorporated here by reference.

The nozzle 1 comprises a generally cylindrical body 1a with the exception fins 19 whose role will be explained later. At its upper part, the nozzle includes a steam inlet well 21 in which will be housed means adaptation to the tubing of a pressurized fluid generator, for example the tubing of an espresso machine. The steam well 21 communicates with a suction chamber 25 via a restriction 27 of very low diameter allowing the carrier fluid to pass at a sonic speed or at all less close to it. This restriction 27 is a reduction in section which generates thus a vacuum in the suction chamber 25 necessary for the venturi effect research. Downstream of the suction chamber 25 there is a further constriction 26 larger diameter than restriction 27 and which makes it possible to adjust the flow rate of the liquid sucked depending on the speed. The suction chamber 25 is itself in communication with a mixing well 29 via the throttle 26. In the suction chamber 25 also open an air intake channel 31 and a channel 33 for supplying or pumping the liquid contained inside the packaging 2.

As we know, the final quality of a foam depends on many factors, and in particular the air flow that can be controlled with a very calibrated precise of the air supply channel 31. Knowing that the diameter of this channel is of the order a few tenths of a millimeter, it will be understood that such a calibration is relatively delicate, especially since this nozzle is intended to be produced in large series, for example by injection molding of a plastic material such as polypropylene (PP), polystyrene or any other suitable plastic material. It is why we prefer to provide at the air intake a hole 32 of larger diameter to adapt means to better control the flow air. It is for example a permeable membrane, for example a membrane with controlled porosity 32a which is fixed above the orifice 32. A membrane of this type is for example available in the range of products offered by Atofina (Paris) under the Pebax® brand or by the company Gor (USA) under the Gortex® brand. This membrane 32a also allows, without modification of the body of the nozzle, to choose the porosity best suited to the pressure of a steam generator given. It will also be observed that the larger diameter of the orifice 32 allows very easily plug it if you want to use the nozzle, not to produce an emulsion but simply to warm up a liquid.

It can also be seen that the liquid supply channel 33 is formed inside. body 1 a of nozzle 1, supply orifices 34a, 34b, 34c (only 34a visible in the section of FIG. 4) being located in the example illustrated at the base 14 of the nozzle 1 and intended to be placed in communication with the interior of the packaging containing the liquid when the device is in pumping configuration.

In the case of a nozzle intended to be adapted to closed packaging, the vertical outer part of the nozzle 1 further comprises a groove 35 allowing to balance the pressure inside the capsule when pumping the contained liquid in the packaging. The lower part 36 of this groove 35 is therefore arranged to be in communication with the interior of the packaging containing the liquid when the device is in pumping configuration.

It can also be seen that the end of the mixing well 29 has a thread interior 30 for securing the joining element 13.

This first embodiment of the packaging and its operation, when is associated with the aforementioned nozzle 1, are now described with reference also in Figures 5 to 7. In Figure 5, the capsule 1 is shown ready for use before installation of adaptation means constituted in this case by an adapter to bayonet 23 for securing the connection sleeve 22 to the well 21 steam inlet into the nozzle. As we can see more clearly on the section of the FIG. 6, a ring 15 of the cover 7 is pinched hermetically between the nozzle 1 and the joining element 13, and the bottom of the chimney 9 is hermetically bonded to a ring 17 of the cover 7 surrounding the first ring 15. In this position the liquid contained in the packaging is completely isolated from the external environment the orifices supply 34a, 34b, 34c with liquid and the air intake orifice 36 to balance the pressure all located above the ring 17 hermetically glued to the cover 7. In the preferred embodiment visible in FIG. 6, the length of the chimney 9 is such that the cover 7 has a convex shape. We will also observe that the fins make it possible to block the nozzle in rotation relative to the capsule.

By moving the capsule 2 axially relative to the nozzle 1, as shown by arrow F in FIG. 7 from top to bottom or vice versa, a separation of the ring 17, the cover 7 then taking a concave shape. We put then the supply orifices 34a, 34b, 34c in communication with the liquid contained in the capsule 2, as well as the lower part 36 of the groove 35 allowing bring air from outside to balance the pressure inside the capsule. In this position the outside air can also circulate through the channel 31 opening into the suction chamber 25.

The fixing and opening means are also preferably arranged to so as to connect the suction channel and the liquid contained in packaging without outside drainage possible. By "without flow to outside ", it should be understood that the liquid contained in the packaging is not likely to leak or spill out of the package without any effect forced suction by the suction sub-assembly with venturi effect. For example, the fixing and opening means cooperate with the packaging to put the channel in communication near the bottom of the liquid. Hydrostatic pressure differential is then created which keeps the liquid in the packaging without risk possible flow, as is the case with bird watering devices, where the water level in the reserve is above the supply cup without as long as there is no leakage.

In FIG. 8, the nozzle-capsule assembly has all the characteristics previously described, but the bayonet adapter 23 has a U-shape which envelops the capsule 5 to cooperate with the lugs 16 distributed around the periphery of the capsule. As before, the sleeve 22 makes it possible to connect the well 21 inlet of pressurized fluid from the nozzle to the tubing of a generator of said fluid under pressure.

Figures 9 and 10 show a partially cutaway perspective, in closed and open position an alternative embodiment in which the sub-assembly suction and mixing is formed at the time of opening. Indeed, as seen in Figure 9 the restriction channel 27 of the carrier fluid under pressure is formed in the end of the sleeve 22 of the adapter 23 (not represented). In the open position shown in Figure 10, the frustoconical end of the sleeve 22 is applied hermetically on a bowl 28, to form the suction chamber 25. The means for closing and opening the capsule, by the rings 15 and 17 of the cover 7, are the same as those previously described.

Figures 11 and 12 correspond to a second embodiment which differs from the first one essentially in the way the liquid is taken inside capsule 3, of the same type as that previously described but which is shown in this example without reinforcing ribs or guide. The cover 7 is sealed only by a ring 17 at the base of the chimney 9 and the device venturi effect used is the same as that described in FIGS. 9 and 10, except with the exception of the means of liquid withdrawal. In fact, the supply or pumping 33 is extended beyond the base of the nozzle by curved spout 37 at 180 ° so that its pointed end 37a is opposite the cover 7. The channel, pressure balancing (not shown) to a similar configuration. When we gives the capsule a translational movement represented by the arrow F of the Figure 12, the end 37a pierces the cover 7 and allows the liquid to be sucked, as explained previously.

The nozzle 1 can comprise several curved nozzles 37 and several channels liquid inlet 33, for example 3 or 6, which can help improve the quality of the emulsion or foam preparation, and have another advantage explained below.

Figure 13 shows a bottom view without the cover 7 a capsule 3 comprising reinforcing ribs 6a, some of which are extended to form partitions 16, the base 16a of which will be sealed in the lid 7 in the same way as the ring 17 at the edge of the chimney 9. Thus, it is possible to split the liquid in the capsule in several doses that can be withdrawn successively by means of a single spout 37. The compartments formed by the partitions may also contain different liquids to be kept separately and mixed only at the time of use by means of a nozzle comprising as many spouts 37 as there are compartments.

Figures 14 to 16 show an example of a third embodiment in which the capacity of the packaging, designated by the general reference 4, is much larger, for example a few deciliters, or even up to a liter, a such packaging being more particularly intended for industrial catering. Such packaging, which typically has the shape of a brick having a wall 41, a bottom 43 and an upper closure element 45, has in the extension of its upper closing element 45 a reserve 40 of small volume, in communication with the inside of the packaging. This reserve 40 has all the characteristics of the capsules described above, namely a side wall 42 joining the wall 41 a bottom 44 parallel to the bottom 43 and a closure element upper 46 in the extension of the element 45. This reserve 40 is crossed by a chimney 9 surrounded by a cover 7 which can be pierced or peeled off at least partially from the base of the chimney depending on the type of nozzle used.

As shown by transparency in FIG. 16, the chimney 9, the area of sealing 47 of the cover 7 and an openwork joining element 48 can be thermoformed to form an insert adaptable to packaging also made, for example, entirely of cardboard. We will also observe that the wall 42 is shown with a polygonal outline, but may have a shape any.

FIG. 17 schematically represents a fourth embodiment, designated by the general reference 5, in which the body of the package is made of a flexible material. More particularly, the packaging includes a flexible sachet comprising a reservoir 50 containing the liquid and a suction sub-assembly and 51 connected to the tank 50 by means of a suction pipe 33. The sub-assembly includes means equivalent to those of the modes previously described, namely, a means 21 for introducing a pressurized fluid, a restriction zone 27 enabling the pressurized fluid to be accelerated, a channel flow of the mixture or emulsion 48, possibly an air inlet 31 allowing a certain amount of air to be introduced into the mixing chamber or emulsion. The packaging can consist of one or more sealed flexible films forming sealing zones 53, 55, which are removed by cutting, delamination or tearing along lines of weakness, 54, 56. The packaging is thus completely sealed until the opening of the sealing zones 53, 55. The opening causes access to the means for introducing the fluid 21 which can be, for example, a nozzle allowing the introduction of an injection needle or the like. The opening also causes the uncovering of the flow conduit 48 of the drink. It is also understood that the packaging of the mode of FIG. 17 can be envisaged by means of rigid non-deformable or slightly deformable packaging elements forming of the walls of the compartment and of the suction sub-assembly of the venturi type.

The examples which have just been given can still be the subject of numerous modifications, within the reach of those skilled in the art, without departing from the scope of the present invention.

Claims (29)

Disposable packaging for dispensing at least one preparation from at least one pumpable liquid comprising at least one closed compartment containing the pumpable liquid, characterized in that the packaging comprises means for receiving a suction sub-assembly and a venturi-type mixture and means for sealing the packaging. Packaging according to claim 1, characterized in that the means for receiving the suction and mixing sub-assembly comprise a passage serving as a housing for said sub-assembly and in that the sealing means are intended to cooperate in opening with the suction and mixing sub-assembly in said passage so as to put the compartment in communication with the suction and mixing sub-assembly, and an opening for the ejection of said preparation. Packaging according to claim 2, characterized in that the suction and mixing sub-assembly is secured to the housing and capable of moving between a closed position in which the suction and mixing sub-assembly is disengaged from the means sealing and an open position in which the suction and mixing sub-assembly engages in opening the sealing means. Packaging according to claim 2, characterized in that the opening through the cover is closed by a mesh. Packaging according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that it comprises a body comprising a chimney forming the housing of the suction and mixing sub-assembly, in that the body defines at least said compartment and in that the means sealing include a seal sealed on said body to at least seal said compartment. Packaging according to claim 5, characterized in that the sealing means comprise a sealing ring of the cover which is sealed on an edge of the chimney, which ring is forced into loosening by relative movement of the suction sub-assembly and mix in the chimney. Packaging according to claim 5 or 6, having a capacity of the order of a few milliliters to a few tens of milliliters, characterized in that it has the shape of a circular capsule with the chimney in its center and in that the cover forms the upper closure element of said capsule. Packaging according to claim 5 or 6, having a capacity of the order of a few deciliters, characterized in that the cover is disposed above a reserve of small volume in communication with the interior of the packaging, said reserve being formed laterally by an extension of the upper closure element, by a side wall and by a bottom parallel to the bottom of said packaging. Packaging according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that the cover comprises a hole with a diameter less than the inside diameter of the chimney to form a ring which can be sealed or pinched at the end of the suction and mixing sub-assembly to allow the lid of the chimney to be partially or completely unsealed during the relative movement in translation of the suction sub-assembly in the housing to put the food liquid in communication with at least one conduit opening into the suction sub-assembly to allow suction of the pumpable liquid, and a conduit opening above the bottom of the capsule to balance the pressure inside the capsule. Packaging according to claim 9, characterized in that the cover is curved towards the inside of the packaging before loosening, so that after loosening, the cover forms a cup in which the openings of the balancing conduits are immersed and nozzle suction. Packaging according to any one of Claims 3 to 6, characterized in that the cover comprises a hole with a diameter which corresponds substantially to the internal diameter of the chimney and in that the cover is made of a material capable of being pierced by the means for opening the suction and mixing sub-assembly during the relative movement in translation of the suction and mixing sub-assembly in the chimney. Packaging according to claim 11, characterized in that the means for piercing the cover are formed by at least two conduits, the ends of which are bent at 180 ° to pierce the cover, one of the conduits emerging above the bottom. of said packaging to balance the pressure inside, the other opening into the suction and mixing sub-assembly to allow the liquid to be sucked up. Packaging according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the internal volume of the capsule is separated by partitions making it possible to form at least two compartments each containing a dose of liquid, each compartment comprising sealing means capable of cooperating independently in opening thus being able to put the compartments in communication with the suction and mixing sub-assembly. Packaging according to claim 13, characterized in that the internal volume of the capsule is separated by partitions making it possible to form at least two compartments each containing different food liquids intended to be mixed by means of at least two sets of conduits. pressure and suction balancing. Packaging according to any one of claims 4 to 14, characterized in that the body of the packaging further comprises ribs for reinforcing and / or positioning the suction and mixing sub-assembly; these ribs being hollowed in the bottom and in the wall, and oriented towards the chimney. Packaging according to claim 15, characterized in that certain ribs also form partitions having their upper part sealed at the seal. Packaging according to any one of claims 4 to 16, characterized in that the capsule body includes lugs facilitating its manipulation to adapt it to the tubing of a generator of pressurized fluid or to an accessory integral with it. this. Packaging according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the suction and mixing sub-assembly comprises at least one liquid suction duct, at least one gas supply duct, at least one inlet for pressurized fluid, at least one suction chamber in which the conduits communicate and at least one outlet for dispensing the preparation. Packaging according to claim 1, characterized in that the means for receiving the suction and mixing sub-assembly are arranged so as to receive said sub-assembly permanently without relative displacement; said subassembly being in communication with the compartment and the sealing means being arranged so as to isolate both said compartment and the subassembly from the outside environment. Disposable packaging for dispensing at least one liquid food, said packaging being formed by a side wall, by a bottom and by a closing element comprising a sealed cover, characterized in that it comprises a passage intended to receive means sampling, said cover being able to be unsealed in a determined area to put the interior of the packaging in communication with said sampling means when said sampling means are introduced into said passage without the sampling means entering the 'packaging. Method for the production and distribution of a preparation in a hygienic manner, characterized in that it consists in having a disposable packaging comprising at least one pumpable liquid contained in at least one compartment of the packaging and comprising the steps consisting, in other possible, to: open the packaging, the opening having the effect of placing the compartment in substantially sealed communication with a venturi-type means; sucking by means of a pressurized fluid by the effect of vacuum of the liquid outside the compartment to bring it into the venturi type means, which is in communication with a heated pressurized fluid and optionally a gas; mixing the liquid with the heated pressurized fluid and optionally the gas, so as to reheat and optionally emulsify or foam the liquid to form the preparation, and distribute the preparation thus obtained, reheated and possibly emulsified. Method according to claim 21, characterized in that the opening of the packaging is achieved by the action of relative displacement of the venturi-type means relative to the packaging. Method according to claim 22, characterized in that the opening of the compartment is effected by piercing the packaging and placing the compartment containing the liquid in communication by means of the venturi type by at least one conduit. Method according to claim 22, characterized in that the opening of the compartment is made by breaking a sealed part of the packaging and placing the compartment containing the liquid in communication by means of the venturi type by at least one conduit. Method according to claim 21, characterized in that during suction, the compartment is rebalanced in pressure by placing the compartment in communication with an atmospheric pressure outlet using at least one pressure rebalancing duct. Method according to claim 21, characterized in that the pressurized fluid is steam or hot water. Method according to claim 21, characterized in that the gas is air. Method according to claim 21, characterized in that the venturi-type means is an integral part of the packaging and is disposable with the packaging. Method according to claim 21, characterized in that the venturi-type means is part of a nozzle adapted to be connected to the packaging.

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