Container of planar aerosol-generating articles

Abstract

The present invention relates to a container (100, 200, 300, 500) of planar aerosol-generating articles (30). The container comprises an outer sleeve (10, 210, 310, 510, 710, 810) comprising opposing, first and second open ends (5, 7). The container further comprises an inner container (20, 220, 320, 520, 620, 720, 820) disposed within the outer sleeve. The inner container is slideable along the outer sleeve. A plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles are held in the inner container.

Description

[0001] P / 90409.W001

[0002] - 1 -

[0003] CONTAINER OF PLANAR AEROSOL-GENERATING ARTICLES

[0004] The present disclosure relates to a container for consumer goods, preferably planar aerosolgenerating articles. The present disclosure relates to a container of planar aerosol-generating articles or a container containing a plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles.

[0005] A typical aerosol-generating system comprises an aerosol-generating device and an aerosolgenerating article comprising an aerosol-generating substrate. In use, the aerosol-generating device is arranged to heat a heating element that is positioned near, or in contact with, the aerosol-generating substrate which causes the aerosol-generating substrate to heat up and release volatile compounds. These volatile compounds are then entrained in air that is drawn through the aerosol-generating article. As the volatile compounds cool, they condense to form an aerosol that can be inhaled by a consumer.

[0006] A typical aerosol-generating article may appear similar and have similar dimensions to a conventional cigarette. For example, such an aerosol-generating article may be substantially cylindrical and comprise an aerosol-generating substrate in addition to other components such as mouthpiece filter element and a cooling element, which are arranged in the form of a rod and wrapped in a cigarette paper.

[0007] However, a significant portion of the aerosol-generating substrate in these cylindrical aerosolgenerating articles may not be sufficiently heated to form an aerosol during use. This is undesirable since the insufficiently heated portion of the aerosol-generating substrate contributes to the cost of manufacture and transport of the aerosol-generating article but does not contribute to the aerosol delivered to the consumer. Moreover, the components of these cylindrical aerosol-generating articles normally need to have the same or very similar outer diameters so that they can be brought together, accurately positioned in axial alignment and wrapped in a cigarette paper. This can lead to increased cost and complexity of manufacture.

[0008] Planar aerosol-generating articles may be able to mitigate or overcome at least some of these disadvantages of substantially cylindrical aerosol-generating articles. However, existing methods and solutions for one or more of the manufacture, handling, and storage of substantially cylindrical aerosolgenerating articles may not be suitable for planar aerosol-generating articles.

[0009] A current challenge is that existing packaging solutions are mainly designed for substantially cylindrical aerosol-generating articles, making them unsuitable for planar aerosol-generating articles. This mismatch can lead to inefficient use of space, more waste, and a greater risk of damage during shipping. Existing packaging solution may not accommodate the relatively slim profile of planar aerosol-generating articles, which may result in movement and friction that could damage the articles. The shape of planar aerosol-generating articles can enable these articles to be packed tightly amongst each other, thereby beneficially saving space within the packaging or container. However, this can make retrieving a single planar article by hand more challenging. P / 90409.W001

[0010] - 2 -

[0011] It is an objective of the present disclosure to provide a means for storage of planar aerosolgenerating articles. It is also objective of the present disclosure to provide such a means which can be implemented relatively efficiently and in a cost-effective manner. It would also be desirable to provide a solution that can be implemented on existing apparatus without requiring extensive modifications.

[0012] According to the present disclosure, there is provided a container for consumer goods or a container of consumer goods, preferably aerosol-generating articles and more preferably planar aerosol-generating articles. The container may comprise an outer sleeve comprising opposing, first and second open ends. The container may further comprise an inner container or an inner tray disposed within the outer sleeve. The inner container may be slideable within the outer sleeve. The inner container may be slideable along the outer sleeve. The inner container may contain a plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles.

[0013] According to the present invention, there is provided a container of planar aerosol-generating articles or a container of planar aerosol-generating articles. The container comprises an outer sleeve comprising opposing, first and second open ends. The container further comprises an inner container disposed within the outer sleeve. The inner container is slideable along the outer sleeve. A plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles are held in or by the inner container.

[0014] Typically, there is interstitial space between adjacent cylindrical aerosol-generating articles that are stored in a container due to their cylindrical shape. This interstitial space can assist in helping a consumer grip and remove one of the cylindrical aerosol-generating articles. However, planar aerosol-generating articles generally have a thickness less than both a length and a width of the planar aerosol-generating article and so are typically flat and thin. This means that planar aerosol-generating articles can be packed tightly in a container with reduced interstitial space compared to cylindrical aerosol-generating articles.

[0015] By providing a container comprising an outer sleeve and a slidable, inner container, a suitable packaging arrangement for more reliably and securely storing planar aerosol-generating articles, while compensating for the reduction in interstitial space that assists in gripping the articles. Such slidable arrangements may facilitate access and extraction of stored planar aerosol-generating articles that may be packed into the inner container in a relatively tight and compact manner, while enhancing space efficiency, reducing waste, and minimising risk of damage to the articles during shipping and handling. Providing such an outer sleeve enables the inner container to slide out either open end of the sleeve, thereby enabling bi-directional extraction of stored planar aerosol-generating articles with reduced obstruction from the outer sleeve. The inner container may also be accessed and pushed from either end of the outer sleeve. Such an arrangement may ensure that a user has improved access to the tops of planar aerosol-generating articles that are more likely to be exposed by providing a slideable inner container within an outer sleeve. For example, this may make it easier for a user to use their fingertips to extract planar aerosol-generating articles. Thus, these advantageous aspects enhance user convenience and accessibility. P / 90409.W001

[0016] - 3 -

[0017] The inner container may be a tray. In the present disclosure, the inner container may be referred to as an inner tray. The inner container may be slideable within and along the outer sleeve. The inner container and the outer sleeve may define a snug fit.

[0018] The inner container may comprising two, opposing closed ends. When located within the outer sleeve, preferably entirely, the closed ends of the inner container together with the outer sleeve prevent access to the articles held by or in the inner container or the one or more compartments thereof. The closed ends of the inner container effectively close off the open ends of the outer sleeve.

[0019] The inner container or any compartment thereof may be suitably shaped and sized to accommodate or hold planar aerosol-generating articles.

[0020] The container may comprise a removeable cover closing an open end of the outer sleeve. The container may comprise two removeable covers, each respectively closing an open end of the outer sleeve. The removeable cover or each removeable cover may be tearable from the outer sleeve. The one or more removeable covers can prevent inadvertent sliding of the inner container from the outer sleeve and may also provide a means of tamper-evident closure for the container.

[0021] The outer sleeve and the inner container may be configured to engage each other such that the inner container is retained within the outer sleeve.

[0022] The inner container may further comprise an insert received within a corresponding compartment of the inner container. The or each insert may divide a compartment of the inner container into a plurality of sub-compartments. The or each insert may configured to hold or contain one or more planar aerosol-generating articles within each sub-compartment. The or each insert may be removeable from a compartment.

[0023] A width of each sub-compartment may be at least 9 millimetres. A width of each subcompartment may less than or equal to 11 millimetres.

[0024] The or each insert may be slideable within a corresponding compartment. The or each insert may be slideable within a corresponding compartment so as to slide or extract one or more aerosolgenerating articles held in or received within the sub-compartments defined by the insert. The or each insert may comprise a pull tab, which may provide a user with a suitable tab to pull on so as to pull or slide the insert and facilitate extraction of one or more aerosol-generating articles when the compartment is accessible.

[0025] The inner container may comprise first and second portions (or sections) hingedly connected to each other. At least the first portion of the inner container may comprise a first compartment for holding the plurality of aerosol-generating articles. The second portion of the inner container may comprise a second compartment for holding a plurality of aerosol-generating articles. The first and second portions of the inner container may also be respectively referred to in the present disclosure as the first and second sections of the inner container.

[0026] The inner container may comprise a hinge line connecting the first and second portions together. The first portion may be configured to move about the hinge line relative to the second portion. The second portion may be configured to move about the hinge line relative to the first portion.

[0027] The inner container may be slidable with respect to the outer sleeve between a first position, in which a compartment of the inner container is disposed entirely within the outer sleeve, and a second position, in which at least a portion of the interior of a compartment of the inner container is accessible outside of the outer sleeve. In the first position, both first and second compartments are disposed entirely within the outer sleeve. This ensures that a user may access the contents held by or in a or each compartment of the inner container when the inner container is in the second position. In other words, a user may access the planar aerosol-generating articles held in a or each compartment of the inner container when the inner container is in the second position.

[0028] In the first position, the inner container may be disposed entirely within the outer sleeve. In such a position, the contents of the container held in a compartment of the inner container are protected within the outer sleeve and are not accessible by a user.

[0029] Any compartment of the inner container is preferably open.

[0030] In the second position, the first portion of the inner container may be angled with respect to the second portion of the inner container. As mentioned above, this may facilitate access to the contents of a compartment of the inner container. In the second position, at least a portion of the second portion of the inner container may be located within the outer sleeve. This may ensure that the inner container is somewhat partially retained within the outer sleeve while the first portion of the inner container can pivot relative to the second portion of the inner container.

[0031] The inner container is preferably configured to receive a plurality of longitudinally arranged aerosol-generating articles, preferably planar aerosol-generating articles. The or each compartment of the inner container is preferably configured to receive a plurality of longitudinally arranged aerosolgenerating articles, preferably planar aerosol-generating articles. The expression ‘longitudinally arranged’ refers to the articles being oriented in a direction parallel to a longitudinal direction defined along the outer sleeve and extending between its open ends.

[0032] In the second position, a or the compartment of the inner container may be located completely outside of the outer sleeve. In the second position, the first portion of the inner container may be located completely outside of the outer sleeve. In the second position, the first portion of the inner container may be pivotable with respect to the second portion of the inner container. In the second position, the second portion of the inner container may be pivotable with respect to the first portion of the inner container. In the second position, at least a portion of the first or second portions of the inner container may be located within the outer sleeve. In other words, at least a portion of the portion of the inner container that is not located completely outside of the outer sleeve may be located within the outer sleeve. In other words, at least a portion of the portion of the inner container that is not pivotable with respect to the other, opposing portion of the inner container may be located within the outer sleeve. This ensures that a user may access the contents held in a compartment of the inner container when the inner container is in the second position as a or the compartment may be effectively be placed at a more ideal angle relative to the outer sleeve (or rest of the inner container) for extraction of tightly packed planar aerosol-generating articles, particularly by facilitating access to, and exposure of, a top, open end of the compartment. For example, this makes it easier for a user to use their fingertips to extract planar aerosol-generating articles, for example, by applying a slight levering action.

[0033] In the first position, the first portion of the inner container may not be pivotable with respect to the second portion of the inner container. In the first position, the second portion of the inner container P / 90409.W001

[0034] - 5 - may not be pivotable with respect to the first portion of the inner container. This ensures that pivotable movement between the first and second portions of the inner container primarily occurs when not in the first position, such as the second position.

[0035] Where the second portion of the inner container comprises a second compartment for holding a plurality of aerosol-generating articles, the inner container may be slidable with respect to the outer sleeve between a first position, in which a compartment of the inner container is disposed entirely within the outer sleeve, and a second position, in which at least a portion of the interior of one of the first compartment of the first portion and the second compartment of the second portion of the inner container is accessible outside of the outer sleeve. In other words, where the second portion of the inner container comprises a second compartment for holding a plurality of aerosol-generating articles, the inner container may be slidable with respect to the outer sleeve between a first position, in which a compartment of the inner container is disposed entirely within the outer sleeve, a second position, in which at least a portion of the interior of a first compartment of the first portion of the inner container is accessible outside of the outer sleeve, and a third position, in which at least a portion of the interior of a second compartment of the second portion of the inner container is accessible outside of the outer sleeve. In the second position, the first compartment of the inner container may be located completely outside of the outer sleeve. In the second position, the second compartment of the inner container may be located completely outside of the outer sleeve. In the second position, at least a portion of one of the first and second portions of the inner container that is not located completely outside of the outer sleeve may be located within the outer sleeve. In the second position, at least a portion of the first or second portions of the inner container may be located within the outer sleeve. In the second position, at least a portion of the first portion of the inner container may be located within the outer sleeve. In the third position, the second compartment of the inner container may be located completely outside of the outer sleeve. In the third position, at least a portion of one of the first and second portions of the inner container that is not located completely outside of the outer sleeve may be located within the outer sleeve. In the third position, at least a portion of the second portion of the inner container may be located within the outer sleeve. In the second position, the first portion of the inner container may be located completely outside of the outer sleeve. In the second position, the second portion of the inner container may be located completely outside of the outer sleeve. In the third position, the second portion of the inner container may be located completely outside of the outer sleeve. In the second position, the first portion of the inner container may be pivotable with respect to the second portion of the inner container. In the second position, the second portion of the inner container may be pivotable with respect to the first portion of the inner container. In the third position, the second portion of the inner container may be pivotable with respect to the first portion of the inner container. In the third position, the first portion of the inner container may be pivotable with respect to the second portion of the inner container.

[0036] As mentioned above, any compartment of the inner container, such as the first compartment and second compartment, is preferably open. Each compartment of the inner container preferably comprises an open top end. Preferably, the open top ends of the first and second compartments of the inner container face each other in the first position of the inner container. Each of the first and P / 90409.W001

[0037] - 6 - second portions of the inner container may comprise opposing side walls, opposing front and rear walls, and a bottom wall, all of which define each of the first and second compartments. In otherwords, each portion of the inner container may comprise opposing side walls (in other words, opposing first and second side walls), opposing front and rear walls, and a bottom wall, all of which define the compartment of such a portion of the inner container.

[0038] The rear walls of the first and second portions of the inner container may be hingedly connected to each other. In other words, the first and second portions hingedly connected to each other by virtues of their rear walls being hingedly connected to each other.

[0039] The side walls of each portion of the inner container may be arranged parallel with the longitudinal direction defined by the outer sleeve, particularly in the first position. In other words, said side walls are oriented in a direction parallel to a longitudinal direction defined along the outer sleeve and extending between its open ends.

[0040] The outer sleeve may comprise opposing side walls (in other words, opposing first and second side walls) and opposing front and rear walls. Such walls of the outer sleeve may define the interior cavity of the outer sleeve in or within which the inner container is received. The outer sleeve may not comprise opposing top and bottom walls, as it is open ended. The side walls of the outer sleeve preferably define minor faces of the outer sleeve, while the front and rear walls preferably define major faces of the outer sleeve.

[0041] As used herein, the term “major face” is used to refer to the faces of an element or component, such as the outer sleeve, which have a greater surface area than that of any of the other faces of such an element or component. The “minor faces” are the faces having a surface area less than that of the major faces.

[0042] Each side wall of each portion of the inner container preferably faces a corresponding side wall of the outer sleeve, particularly in the first position. The first side wall of each portion of the inner container preferably faces the first side wall of the outer sleeve, particularly in the first position. The second side wall of each portion of the inner container preferably faces the second side wall of the outer sleeve, particularly in the first position.

[0043] The front and rear walls of each portion of the inner container may also be arranged parallel with the longitudinal direction defined by the outer sleeve, particularly in the first position. Each front wall of each portion of the inner container preferably faces the front wall of the outer sleeve, particularly in the first position. Each rear wall of each portion of the inner container preferably faces the rear wall of the outer sleeve, particularly in the first position.

[0044] Each front wall of the inner container may be shorter than its opposing rear wall such that top portions of the aerosol-generating articles held in the compartments are exposed. This may advantageously enable a user to more easily extract an article, preferably a planar aerosol-generating article, from the compartments, particularly in the second or third positions of the inner container when one of the compartments is accessible to a user, preferably by sliding one of the articles upwards away from the bottom wall of the exposed first or second portion of the inner container. P / 90409.W001

[0045] - 7 -

[0046] The bottom walls of each of the first and second portions of the inner container may define the opposing, closed ends of the inner container. The bottom wall of each of the first and second portions of the inner container may define a closed end of the corresponding first or second compartment.

[0047] The second portion of the inner container may comprise a hinged panel configured to partially overlie the compartment of the first portion. The second portion or hinged panel may be configured to move about the hinge line relative to the first portion of the inner container. The hinged panel may be referred to as a hinged lid panel.

[0048] The hinged panel may be hingedly connected to the first portion of the inner container and may be configured to overlie the compartment. This enables the hinged panel to at least partially protect or obscure the contents of the container held in the compartment, particularly when the inner container is position inside of the outer sleeve. The hinged panel may be folded or pivoted so as to prevent access to the article or contents held in the compartment from the top of the overall container or outer sleeve. The hinged panel may also act as a pull tab for a user to pull on so as to slide the inner container out of the outer sleeve.

[0049] The hinged panel may be configured to form a substantially right angle with respect to the first portion of the inner container. This enables the hinged panel to conform to the profile and shape of contents held vertically in the compartment, particularly planar aerosol-generating articles. For example, the hinged panel may be positioned over the top of the planar aerosol-generating articles, so as to substantially overlie the top of the articles.

[0050] The outer sleeve and the hinged panel may be configured to engage each other such that the panel is retained in an engaged configuration in which the hinged panel overlies the compartment and obstructs access to the interior of the compartment via the first open end of the outer sleeve. In the engaged configuration, sliding movement of the inner container towards the first open end of the outer sleeve may be obstructed. In the engaged configuration, the inner container may be in the first position and the hinged panel may be located within the outer sleeve. The outer sleeve may comprise an upper folded flap defining an engagement edge configured to engage with the hinged panel, preferably an edge thereof. In the aforementioned engaged configuration, the hinged panel may be engaged with the upper folded flap of the outer sleeve. Such an engaged configuration may hinder inadvertent exit of the slideable, inner container from a top open end of the outer sleeve. Furthermore, it may also ensure that the hinged panel is retained in a position where it overlies the compartment where the articles are held, so as to protect them and hinder access to them through the open end of the outer sleeve. The hinged panel may effectively act as a lid to the compartment in such a configuration.

[0051] The outer sleeve and the first portion of the inner container may further be configured to engage each other so as to obstruct sliding movement of the inner container towards the second open end of the outer sleeve. Such an engagement may hinder inadvertent exit of the slideable, inner container from a bottom open end of the outer sleeve and effectively defines a lower limit position for the inner container within the outer sleeve. The outer sleeve may comprise at least one lower folded flap defining an engagement edge configured to engage with the first portion of the inner container preferably an edge thereof. The outer sleeve may comprise four lower folded flaps defining P / 90409.W001

[0052] - 8 - engagement edges configured to engage with the first portion of the inner container, preferably corresponding edges thereof.

[0053] Any folded flaps of the outer sleeve may be fixedly attached to a corresponding wall of the outer sleeve. Any folded flaps of the outer sleeve may be adhered to a corresponding wall of the outer sleeve.

[0054] The outer sleeve and the inner container may be configured to engage each other such that the inner container is retained in the first position. The outer sleeve may comprise a first engaging element. The inner container may further comprise a second engaging element configured to engage with the first engaging element to form a locking mechanism for preventing the inner container from sliding with respect to the outer sleeve. The second engaging element may comprise a protruding element and the first engaging element comprises a corresponding aperture in the outer sleeve. Such an aperture may be cut-out in the outer sleeve. Such a locking mechanism may prevent inadvertent sliding of the inner container within the outer sleeve. The locking mechanism may also be disengageable. A user may disengage the locking mechanism by disengaging the second engaging element from the first engaging element. A user may disengage the locking mechanism by pressing down on the second engaging element so as to disengage it from the first engaging element while also pushing on one end of the inner container through an open end of the outer sleeve. The outer sleeve and the inner container may be deformable.

[0055] The outer sleeve may be substantially elongate. The inner container or tray may be substantially elongate.

[0056] The outer sleeve may be substantially planar. The inner container or tray may be substantially planar.

[0057] The inner container may not comprise two portions that are hingeably attached, as discussed above. The inner container may be a single inner tray. The inner container or inner tray may comprise a compartment for holding a plurality of aerosol-generating articles, preferably planar aerosolgenerating articles.

[0058] The inner container or inner tray may comprise two compartments for holding a plurality of aerosol-generating articles, preferably planar aerosol-generating articles.

[0059] The inner container may comprise an insert received within each compartment. The majority of each insert may be arranged at the bottom of the compartment. Each insert may comprise a cardboard sheet. The majority of each insert may be arranged to be located below the planar aerosolgenerating articles received within the inner container such that when the insert is lifted the articles are also lifted or tilted from the compartment to facilitate their extraction from the inner container or tray. Each insert may comprise a pull tab to enable a user to pull on the insert so as to lift or tilt the articles from the inner container tray and therefore facilitate extraction of one of the articles from the inner container.

[0060] The compartment may be configured to receive a plurality of longitudinally arranged planar aerosol-generating articles. The expression ‘longitudinally arranged’ refers to the articles being oriented in a longitudinal direction defined along the outer sleeve and extending between its open ends. P / 90409.W001

[0061] - 9 -

[0062] The compartment may be configured to receive a plurality of transversely arranged planar aerosol-generating articles. The expression ‘transversely arranged’ refers to the articles being oriented in a direction transverse to a longitudinal direction defined along the outer sleeve and extending between its open ends.

[0063] The inner container may comprise a plurality of compartments. Such compartments may be separated by a one or more divider walls of the inner container. The inner container may comprise two longitudinal compartments, extending from one end of the inner container to the other. The inner container may comprise a central dividing wall extending longitudinally from one end of the inner container to the other. A plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles may be received or held in the inner container with their major faces facing a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the inner container. In other words, the planar aerosol-generating articles may face a direction perpendicular to the dividing wall.

[0064] The outer sleeve may comprise a first restricting element configured to engage the inner container so as to prevent, restrict or block movement of the inner container in one direction, preferably towards one end of the outer sleeve. The first restricting element may be configured to engage the inner container so as to prevent or hinder complete exit of the inner container via one end of the outer sleeve. The first restricting element may be located at or proximate to one of the open ends of the outer sleeve. The first restricting element may be a blocking element located at or proximate to one of the open ends of the outer sleeve so as to block movement of the inner container in one direction, preferably towards one end of the outer sleeve.

[0065] The first restricting element may be configured to engage an end of the inner container so as to prevent or block movement of the inner container in one direction.

[0066] The first restricting element may comprise a flap element or tab element. The flap element may extend into the interior of the outer sleeve. The flap element may extend from an interior surface of a bottom wall of the outer sleeve.

[0067] The inner container may comprise an end cover panel at each end of the compartment of the inner container. Each end cover panel may obstruct access to the compartment when the inner container is entirely within the outer sleeve. At least one of the end cover panels may engage with the first restricting element.

[0068] The inner container may comprise a second restricting element configured to engage the first restricting element so as to restrict exit of the inner container from the outer sleeve. Engagement between the first and second restricting elements may restrict or resist complete exit of the inner container from the outer sleeve. The second restricting element may be a flap element or tab element located on or extending from the underside of the inner container. The flap element of the second restricting element may be configured to engage the flap element of the first restricting element.

[0069] The outer sleeve may comprise a third restricting element at an opposite end to the first restricting element. The third restricting element may be configured to engage the inner container so as to prevent, restrict or block movement in another direction, preferably towards another end of the outer sleeve, opposite the first restricting element. The third restricting element may be located at or proximate to one of the open ends of the outer sleeve, opposite the first restricting element. P / 90409.W001

[0070] - 10 -

[0071] The third restricting element may be a blocking element located at or proximate to one of the open ends of the outer sleeve so as to block or prevent movement of the inner container in one direction, preferably towards one end of the outer sleeve. The third restricting element may be a blocking element if the first restricting element is a flap element, as described above. As described above, the inner container may comprise an end cover panel at each end of the compartment of the inner container. Each end cover panel may obstruct access to the compartment when the inner container is entirely within the outer sleeve. One of the end cover panels may engage with the third restricting element.

[0072] The first restricting element may be configured to engage a middle portion of the inner container so as to restrict movement in one direction, preferably towards one end of the outer sleeve. The second restricting element may be located at a position between both ends of the inner container. The second restricting element may be configured to engage the first restricting element so as to restrict sliding of the inner container in a first direction and ensure that no more than at least 60 percent of the length of inner container is extracted from the outer sleeve. Where the third restricting element is not a blocking element, as described above, the second restricting element may be configured to engage the third restricting element so as to restrict sliding of the inner container in a second direction, which may be a direction opposite to the first direction.

[0073] The interior of the container may be visible through the outer sleeve. The contents of the container, such as the planar aerosol-generating articles, may be visible through the outer sleeve. The outer sleeve may comprise a windowor cut out on a sidewall of the outer sleeve. The cut out may also enable a user to grab the outer sleeve and exert a sliding force on the inner container through the cut out. The outer sleeve may comprise two cut outs, one on each opposing sidewall of the outer sleeve.

[0074] As mentioned above, the inner container may comprise an insert received within a compartment of the inner container and the insert may divide the compartment into a plurality of subcompartments. Such an insert may comprise the second restricting element.

[0075] The outer sleeve may be made from single or multi-ply cardboard or paperboard. The inner container may be made from single or multi-ply cardboard or paperboard. The or each insert of the inner container may be made from single or multi-ply cardboard or paperboard.

[0076] The outer sleeve may be formed by one or more folded laminar blanks. Preferably, the outer sleeve may be formed by a single laminar blank. The inner container may be formed by one or more folded laminar blanks. The inner container may be formed by a single laminar blank. The or each insert may be formed by one or more insert components. Each insert component may be formed by a folded laminar blank. Preferably, the or each insert may be formed by a single laminar blank.

[0077] As mentioned above, the present disclosure relates to a container for planar aerosolgenerating articles and a container of planar aerosol-generating articles.

[0078] The inner container is configured to contain or hold a plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles. The inner container may be configured to contain at least 10 planar aerosol-generating articles. The inner container may be configured to contain at least 15 planar aerosol-generating articles. For example, the inner container may be configured to contain 20 planar aerosol-generating articles. The inner container or any compartment thereof may be suitably shaped and sized to P / 90409.W001

[0079] - 11 - accommodate or hold a plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles. The inner container or any compartment thereof may be suitably shaped and sized to accommodate or hold at least 10 planar aerosol-generating articles. The inner container or any compartment thereof may be suitably shaped and sized to accommodate or hold at least 15 planar aerosol-generating articles. For example, the inner container or any compartment thereof may be suitably shaped and sized to accommodate or hold 20 planar aerosol-generating articles.

[0080] The aerosol-generating article may be a substantially flat aerosol-generating article or a substantially planar aerosol-generating article. In particular, a thickness of the aerosol-generating article may less than 50 percent of both a length and a width of the aerosol-generating article. Advantageously, a smaller thickness may provide a small temperature gradient or difference across the thickness of the aerosol-generating substrate during heating.

[0081] The following passages describe preferred features of the planar aerosol-generating article, including various layers, components and surfaces which the planar aerosol-generating article may have. These features are described in respect of a single planar aerosol-generating article; however, it will be appreciated that such features apply to all of the plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles held or contained within the container of the present disclosure.

[0082] The planar aerosol-generating article may comprise one or more aerosol-generating substrates.

[0083] The planar aerosol-generating article may be configured to be used with an aerosol-generating device. The aerosol-generating device may be configured to receive a planar aerosol-generating article, as described herein. The aerosol-generating device may comprise a device cavity dimensioned to receive at least a portion of the planar aerosol-generating article. The aerosol-generating device may comprise a heater or heating means, a power source for supplying power to the heater or heating means, and a controller to control a supply of power to the heater or heating means. The aerosolgenerating device may be configured to heat at least one of the one or more aerosol-generating substrates of the article to form an aerosol, for example an inhalable aerosol. The aerosol-generating device may be configured to heat each of the one or more aerosol-generating substrates to form an aerosol, for example an inhalable aerosol. An aerosol-generating system may comprise such an aerosol-generating device and a planar aerosol-generating article as described herein. The system may comprise a plurality of such articles for use with the aerosol-generating device.

[0084] The planar aerosol-generating article may be a substantially flat aerosol-generating article or a substantially planar aerosol-generating article. In particular, a thickness of the planar aerosolgenerating article may less than 50 percent of both a length and a width of the planar aerosolgenerating article. Advantageously, a smaller thickness may provide a small temperature gradient or difference across the thickness of the aerosol-generating substrate during heating.

[0085] The planar aerosol-generating article may have a length extending in an x-direction. The planar aerosol-generating article may have a width extending in a y-direction. The planar aerosolgenerating article may have a thickness extending in a z-direction.

[0086] The planar aerosol-generating article may have a quadrilaterally-faced hexahedron shape. One or more corners of said quadrilaterally-faced hexahedron shape may be rounded. The planar P / 90409.W001

[0087] - 12 - aerosol-generating article may have a rectangular prism shape. The planar aerosol-generating article may have a cuboid shape.

[0088] The planar aerosol-generating article may have a laminated structure, for example the planar aerosol-generating article may comprise or be formed from at least two layers. In particular, the planar aerosol-generating article may comprise at least two of: a first external layer, a second external layer, a frame, a first frame layer, a second frame layer, a third frame layer, a first aerosol-generating substrate layer, and a second aerosol-generating substrate layer as discussed in more detail below.

[0089] Substantially the entirety of the planar aerosol-generating article, excluding the one or more aerosol-generating substrates (if present) and (if present) adhesive, may be paper or cardboard.

[0090] The planar aerosol-generating article may have a cellulose acetate content of less than 5 percent. The planar aerosol-generating article may have a cellulose acetate content of less than 3 percent. The planar aerosol-generating article may have a cellulose acetate content of less than 1 percent.

[0091] The frame of the planar aerosol-generating article may be a planar frame.

[0092] The frame of the planar aerosol-generating article may define a frame aperture extending through the thickness of the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article. The frame aperture may define or form the airflow passage of the planar aerosol-generating article. The frame aperture may define or form the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article. For example, the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a hollow cuboid shape or a square hollow tube shape. As a further example, the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a cross-section that is annular in shape, preferably the cross-section in an x / y plane is annular in shape.

[0093] The frame of the planar aerosol-generating article may comprise a frame outer surface. The frame outer surface may extend in a transverse direction, for example between the first planar external surface and the second planar external surface. The frame outer surface may at least partially define or form one or more external surfaces of the planar aerosol-generating article. For example, the frame outer surface may at least partially define or form one or more external walls of the planar aerosolgenerating article. The frame outer surface may circumscribe or encircle the frame aperture. The frame outer surface may circumscribe or encircle the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article.

[0094] The frame of the planar aerosol-generating article may comprise a frame inner surface. The frame inner surface may extend in a transverse direction, for example between the first planar external surface and the second planar external surface. The frame inner surface may define or form a frame aperture outer wall. The frame inner surface may define or form a cavity outer wall. The frame inner surface may circumscribe or encircle the frame aperture extending through the thickness of the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article. The frame inner surface may circumscribe or encircle the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article.

[0095] The frame outer surface may circumscribe or encircle the frame inner surface. The frame inner surface and the frame outer surface may be concentric with one another.

[0096] The planar aerosol-generating article may comprise one or more external walls extending between the first planar external surface and the second planar external surface. The one or more external walls may collectively define an entire transverse external area of the planar aerosol- P / 90409.W001

[0097] - 13 - generating article. The frame of the planar aerosol-generating article may at least partially define each of the one or more external walls. The one or more external walls may circumscribe or encircle the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article. The frame may define at least 60 percent, at least 70 percent, at least 80 percent, or at least 90 percent of the entire transverse external area of the planar aerosol-generating article.

[0098] The frame of the planar aerosol-generating article may comprise a peripheral wall. The peripheral wall may circumscribe or encircle at least a portion of the frame aperture extending through the thickness of the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article. The peripheral wall may circumscribe or encircle at least a portion of the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article. The peripheral wall may circumscribe or encircle the frame aperture extending through the thickness of the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article. The peripheral wall may circumscribe or encircle the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article.

[0099] The peripheral wall may be defined or formed by the frame outer surface and the frame inner surface. The peripheral wall may at least partially define or form one or more external surfaces or walls of the planar aerosol-generating article. The peripheral wall may define or form a frame aperture outer wall. The peripheral wall may define or form a cavity outer wall.

[0100] The peripheral wall may have a radial thickness. The radial thickness may be defined as the minimum distance between the frame outer surface and the frame inner surface, such as in the x / y plane.

[0101] The peripheral wall may have a radial thickness greater than or equal to 0.5 millimetres. The peripheral wall may have a radial thickness greater than or equal to 1.5 millimetres. The peripheral wall may have a radial thickness greater than or equal to 2.5 millimetres.

[0102] The peripheral wall may have a radial thickness less than or equal to 3.5 millimetres. The peripheral wall may have a radial thickness less than or equal to 2.5 millimetres.

[0103] The peripheral wall may have a radial thickness between 0.5 millimetres and 3.5 millimetres. The peripheral wall may have a radial thickness between 0.5 millimetres and 2.5 millimetres.

[0104] Advantageously, the peripheral wall having a radial thickness between 0.5 millimetres and 3.5 millimetres has been found to provide good structural strength for the planar aerosol-generating article whilst not using excess amounts of material which may increase manufacturing costs, and may limit the amount of heat that is undesirably transferred to the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article rather than the aerosol-generating substrate.

[0105] The frame of the planar aerosol-generating article may be made from or comprise a biodegradable material. The frame of the planar aerosol-generating article may be made entirely from a biodegradable material.

[0106] The frame of the planar aerosol-generating article may be made from or comprise a cellulosic material. The cellulosic material may comprise a sheet of cellulosic material. The cellulosic material may comprise cellulose fibres. The cellulosic material may be paper, paperboard, or cardboard. The frame of the planar aerosol-generating article may be made from or comprise a plant material, such as tobacco. The frame of the planar aerosol-generating article may be made entirely from a cellulosic material. P / 90409.W001

[0107] - 14 -

[0108] The planar aerosol-generating article may comprise one or more susceptor materials. The frame of the planar aerosol-generating article may comprise one or more susceptor materials. The one more susceptor materials may be in thermal contact with the aerosol-generating substrate. The one more susceptor materials may be in thermal contact with the cavity of the planar aerosolgenerating article. The one or more susceptor materials may be incorporated within the material of the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article. For example, the one or more susceptor material may be incorporated within the peripheral wall of the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article.

[0109] The one or more susceptor materials may be one or more particles, strips, threads, or wires of susceptor material. The one or more susceptor materials may be one or more sheets or layers of susceptor material. The one of more sheets or layers of susceptor material may be in the form of a mesh of susceptor material.

[0110] The susceptor material, in whatever form, may comprise one or more materials selected from the list consisting of: aluminium, iron and iron alloys, nickel and nickel alloys, cobalt alloys, stainless steel alloys, copper alloys, carbon, expanded carbon, and graphite.

[0111] The frame of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a thickness greater than or equal to 50 percent of the thickness of the planar aerosol-generating article. The frame of the planar aerosolgenerating article may have a thickness greater than or equal to 70 percent of the thickness of the planar aerosol-generating article. The frame of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a thickness greater than or equal to 90 percent of the thickness of the planar aerosol-generating article. The frame of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a thickness greater than or equal to 95 percent of the thickness of the planar aerosol-generating article.

[0112] The frame of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a thickness less than or equal to 95 percent of the thickness of the planar aerosol-generating article. The frame of the planar aerosolgenerating article may have a thickness less than or equal to 90 percent of the thickness of the planar aerosol-generating article. The frame of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a thickness less than or equal to 70 percent of the thickness of the planar aerosol-generating article.

[0113] The frame of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a thickness between 50 percent of the thickness of the planar aerosol-generating article and 95 percent of the thickness of the planar aerosol-generating article. The frame of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a thickness between 70 percent of the thickness of the planar aerosol-generating article and 95 percent of the thickness of the planar aerosol-generating article.

[0114] The frame of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a thickness greater than or equal to 1 millimetre, greater than or equal to 2 millimetres, greater than or equal to 3 millimetres, or greater than or equal to 4 millimetres. The frame of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a thickness less than or equal to 5.5 millimetres, less than or equal to 4.5 millimetres, less than or equal to 3.5 millimetres, less than or equal to 2.5 millimetres, or less than or equal to 1 .5 millimetres. The frame of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a thickness between 1 millimetre and 5.5 millimetres. Preferably, the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a thickness between 1 .5 millimetres and 5.5 millimetres. P / 90409.W001

[0115] - 15 -

[0116] The frame of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a length that is equal to the length of the planar aerosol-generating article. The frame of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a length that is at least 90 percent of the length of the planar aerosol-generating article. The frame of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a length that is at least 95 percent of the length of the planar aerosol-generating article.

[0117] The frame of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a width that is equal to the width of the planar aerosol-generating article. The frame of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a width that is at least 90 percent of the width of the planar aerosol-generating article.

[0118] The frame of the planar aerosol-generating article may be a unitary component. Alternatively, the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article may comprise two or more layers. That is, the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a laminated structure. Advantageously, the properties of each layer may be individually optimised depending on the relative distance between the layer and aerosol-generating substrate or heater of an aerosol-generating device.

[0119] The frame of the planar aerosol-generating article may comprise a first frame layer and a second frame layer. The first frame layer and the second frame layer may be the only layers of the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article. That is, the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article may comprise no more than two layers or may comprise exactly two layers. The frame aperture may be defined through both the first frame layer and the second frame layer.

[0120] The frame of the planar aerosol-generating article may comprise a first frame layer, a second frame layer and a third frame layer. The second frame layer may be positioned between the first frame layer and the third frame layer. The first frame layer, the second frame layer and the third frame layer may be the only layers of the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article. That is, the frame may comprise no more than three layers or may comprise exactly three layers.

[0121] The one or more aerosol-generating substrates may comprise an aerosol-generating substrate layer. Advantageously, the aerosol-generating substrate layer can be made thin and, therefore, quickly heat up and release volatile compounds to form an aerosol. Advantageously, the aerosol-generating substrate layer can be positioned close to a heater of an aerosol-generating device.

[0122] The aerosol-generating substrate layer may comprise an aerosol-generating material. The aerosol-generating material may be any aerosol-generating material described herein. The aerosolgenerating material may be in the form of a sheet of aerosol-generating material. The sheet of aerosolgenerating material may be any sheet of aerosol-generating material described herein. The aerosolgenerating substrate layer may be, and may be made entirely of, a sheet of aerosol-generating material.

[0123] The aerosol-generating substrate layer may be positioned between the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article and the first planar external surface. The aerosol-generating substrate layer may be positioned between the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article and the second planar external surface. The aerosol-generating substrate layer may be in physical contact with, and may be bonded to, the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article.

[0124] The aerosol-generating substrate layer may be positioned between the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article and the outer wrapper. The outer wrapper is discussed in more detail below. P / 90409.W001

[0125] - 16 -

[0126] The aerosol-generating substrate layer may in physical contact with, and may be bonded to, both the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article and the outer wrapper.

[0127] The aerosol-generating substrate layer may be positioned between the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article and the first planar external layer. The aerosol-generating substrate layer may be positioned between the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article and the second planar external layer. The first planar external layer and the second planar external layer are discussed in more detail below. The aerosol-generating substrate layer may in physical contact with, and may be bonded to, both the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article and the first planar external layer. The aerosol-generating substrate layer may in physical contact with, and may be bonded to, both the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article and the second planar external layer.

[0128] The aerosol-generating substrate layer may overlie an end of the cavity of the planar aerosolgenerating article. The aerosol-generating substrate layer may define or form a wall of the cavity, such as the first cavity end wall or the second cavity end wall. Advantageously, the aerosol-generating substrate layer may therefore be in, or at least partially define or form, the airflow passage thereby allowing released volatile compounds to quickly form an aerosol.

[0129] The one or more aerosol-generating substrates may comprise a first aerosol-generating substrate layer and a second aerosol-generating substrate layer. Advantageously, a first and a second aerosol-generating substrate layer may allow rapid generation of a satisfactory volume of aerosol compared with using a single aerosol-generating substrate layer.

[0130] The first aerosol-generating substrate layer may comprise an aerosol-generating material. The aerosol-generating material may be any aerosol-generating material described herein. The aerosolgenerating material may be in the form of a sheet of aerosol-generating material. The sheet of aerosolgenerating material may be any sheet of aerosol-generating material described herein. The first aerosol-generating substrate layer may be, and may be made entirely of, a sheet of aerosol-generating material.

[0131] The second aerosol-generating substrate layer may comprise an aerosol-generating material. The aerosol-generating material may be any aerosol-generating material described herein. The aerosol-generating material may be in the form of a sheet of aerosol-generating material. The sheet of aerosol-generating material may be any sheet of aerosol-generating material described herein. The second aerosol-generating substrate layer may be, and may be made entirely of, a sheet of aerosolgenerating material.

[0132] The first aerosol-generating substrate layer may be positioned between the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article and the first planar external surface. The first aerosol-generating substrate layer may be in physical contact with, and may be bonded to, the frame of the planar aerosolgenerating article.

[0133] The first aerosol-generating substrate layer may be positioned between the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article and the outer wrapper. The first aerosol-generating substrate layer may in physical contact with, and may be bonded to, both the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article and the outer wrapper. P / 90409.W001

[0134] - 17 -

[0135] The first aerosol-generating substrate layer may be positioned between the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article and the first planar external layer. The first aerosol-generating substrate layer may in physical contact with, and may be bonded to, both the frame of the planar aerosolgenerating article and the first planar external layer.

[0136] The second aerosol-generating substrate layer may be positioned between the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article and the second planar external surface. The second aerosolgenerating substrate layer may be in physical contact with, and may be bonded to, the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article.

[0137] The second aerosol-generating substrate layer may be positioned between the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article and the outer wrapper. The second aerosol-generating substrate layer may in physical contact with, and may be bonded to, both the frame of the planar aerosolgenerating article and the outer wrapper.

[0138] The second aerosol-generating substrate layer may be positioned between the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article and the second planar external layer. The second aerosol-generating substrate layer may in physical contact with, and may be bonded to, both the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article and the second planar external layer.

[0139] The first aerosol-generating substrate layer and the second aerosol-generating substrate layer may overlie opposing ends of the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article. The first aerosolgenerating substrate layer and the second aerosol-generating substrate layer may define or form opposing end walls of the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article. That is, the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article, the first aerosol-generating substrate layer and the second aerosolgenerating substrate layer may collectively define the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article.

[0140] One or more of the aerosol-generating substrate layer, the first aerosol-generating substrate layer and the second aerosol-generating substrate layer may have a thickness greater than or equal to 100 micrometres, greater than or equal to 200 micrometres, greater than or equal to 300 micrometres, greater than or equal to 400 micrometres, or greater than or equal to 500 micrometres.

[0141] One or more of the aerosol-generating substrate layer, the first aerosol-generating substrate layer and the second aerosol-generating substrate layer may have a thickness less than or equal to 600 micrometres, less than or equal to 500 micrometres, less than or equal to 400 micrometres, less than or equal to 300 micrometres, or less than or equal to 300 micrometres.

[0142] One or more of the aerosol-generating substrate layer, the first aerosol-generating substrate layer and the second aerosol-generating substrate layer may have a thickness between 100 micrometres and 600 micrometres, between 200 micrometres and 500 micrometres, between 200 micrometres and 400 micrometres, or between 200 micrometres and 300 micrometres.

[0143] The aerosol-generating substrate layer may have a length substantially the same as the length of the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article. The aerosol-generating substrate layer may have a length substantially the same as the length of the planar aerosol-generating article.

[0144] The first aerosol-generating substrate layer may have a length substantially the same as the length of the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article. The first aerosol-generating substrate layer may have a length substantially the same as the length of the planar aerosol-generating article. P / 90409.W001

[0145] - 18 -

[0146] The second aerosol-generating substrate layer may have a length substantially the same as the length of the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article. The second aerosol-generating substrate layer may have a length substantially the same as the length of the planar aerosolgenerating article.

[0147] The aerosol-generating substrate layer may have a width substantially the same as the width of the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article. The aerosol-generating substrate layer may have a width substantially the same as the width of the planar aerosol-generating article.

[0148] The first aerosol-generating substrate layer may have a width substantially the same as the width of the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article. The first aerosol-generating substrate layer may have a width substantially the same as the width of the planar aerosol-generating article.

[0149] The second aerosol-generating substrate layer may have a width substantially the same as the width of the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article. The second aerosol-generating substrate layer may have a width substantially the same as the width of the planar aerosol-generating article.

[0150] The first planar external surface may be a planar upper surface and the second planar external surface may be a planar lower surface. The first planar external surface may be positioned parallel to the second planar external surface. The first planar external surface may extend in the x / y plane. The second planar external surface may extend in the x / y plane. The second planar external surface may be spaced from the first planar external surface in the z-direction or transverse direction. The distance between the first planar external surface and the second planar external surface in the z-direction or transverse direction may define the thickness of the planar aerosol-generating article.

[0151] The planar aerosol-generating article may comprise an outer wrapper. The outer wrapper may be hydrophobic. The outer wrapper may comprise a hydrophobic material.

[0152] The outer wrapper may define or form the first planar external surface. The outer wrapper may define or form the second planar external surface. The outer wrapper may define or form both the first planar external surface and the second planar external surface.

[0153] The outer wrapper may circumscribe or encircle the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article. The outer wrapper may be in physical contact with, and may be bonded to, the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article. The outer wrapper may overlie opposing ends of the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article. The outer wrapper may define or form opposing end walls of the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article, such as the first cavity end wall and the second cavity end wall. That is, the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article and the outer wrapper may collectively define the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article.

[0154] The outer wrapper may circumscribe or encircle the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article and the aerosol-generating substrate layer. The outer wrapper may be in physical contact with, and may be bonded to, both the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article and the aerosolgenerating substrate layer.

[0155] The outer wrapper may circumscribe or encircle the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article, the first aerosol-generating substrate layer and the second aerosol-generating substrate layer. P / 90409.W001

[0156] - 19 -

[0157] The outer wrapper may be in physical contact with, and may be bonded to, both the first aerosolgenerating substrate layer and the second aerosol-generating substrate layer.

[0158] The planar aerosol-generating article may comprise a first planar external layer and a second planar external layer. The first planar external layer may be an upper layer and the second planar external layer may be a lower layer.

[0159] The first planar external layer may define or form the first planar external surface. The first planar external layer may extend in the x / y plane. The second planar external layer may define or form the second planar external surface. The second planar external layer may extend in the x / y plane.

[0160] The first planar external layer may be in physical contact with, and may be bonded to, the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article. The first planar external layer may overlie an end of the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article. The first planar external layer may define or form a wall of the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article, such as the first cavity end wall.

[0161] The second planar external layer may be in physical contact with, and may be bonded to, the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article. The second planar external layer may overlie an end of the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article. The second planar external layer may define or form a wall of the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article, such as the second cavity end wall.

[0162] The first planar external layer and the second planar external layer may overlie opposing ends of the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article. The first planar external layer and the second planar external layer may define or form opposing end walls of the cavity of the planar aerosolgenerating article, such as the first cavity end wall and the second cavity end wall. That is, the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article, the first planar external layer and the second planar external layer may collectively define the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article.

[0163] The first planar external layer may be spaced, such as in a transverse direction, from the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article. For example, the aerosol-generating substrate layer or the first aerosol-generating substrate layer may be positioned between the first planar external layer and the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article. The first planar external layer may be in physical contact with, and may be bonded to, the aerosol-generating substrate layer or the first aerosolgenerating substrate layer.

[0164] The second planar external layer may be spaced, such as in a transverse direction, from the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article. For example, the aerosol-generating substrate layer or the second aerosol-generating substrate layer may be positioned between the second planar external layer and the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article. The second planar external layer may be in physical contact with, and may be bonded to, the aerosol-generating substrate layer or the second aerosol-generating substrate layer.

[0165] The first planar external layer may be hydrophobic. The first planar external layer may comprise a hydrophobic material. The second planar external layer may be hydrophobic. The second planar external layer may comprise a hydrophobic material.

[0166] One or more of the outer wrapper, the first planar external layer and the second planar external layer may comprise, or be made from, a cellulosic material. The cellulosic material may be paper, cigarette paper, tobacco paper, cardboard, wood, textile, natural fibres or artificial fibres. P / 90409.W001

[0167] - 20 -

[0168] One or more of the outer wrapper, the first planar external layer and the second planar external layer may be an aerosol-generating substrate comprising an aerosol-generating material. The aerosolgenerating material may be any aerosol-generating material described herein. In particular, the aerosol-generating material may be in the form of a sheet of aerosol-generating material. The sheet of aerosol-generating material may be any sheet of aerosol-generating material described herein. Alternatively, one or more of the outer wrapper, the first planar external layer and the second planar external layer may not comprise any aerosol-generating material, particularly in embodiments comprising an aerosol-generating substrate layer, a first aerosol-generating substrate layer, a second aerosol-generating substrate layer or an aerosol-generating substrate positioned within the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article. One or more of the outer wrapper, the first planar external layer and the second planar external layer may be substantially nicotine-free.

[0169] One or more of the outer wrapper, the first planar external layer and the second planar external layer may have a thickness greater than or equal to 25 micrometres, greater than or equal to 30 micrometres, greater than or equal to 35 micrometres, greater than or equal to 40 micrometres, or greater than or equal to 45 micrometres.

[0170] One or more of the outer wrapper, the first planar external layer and the second planar external layer may have a thickness less than or equal to 55 micrometres, less than or equal to 50 micrometres, less than or equal to 45 micrometres, less than or equal to 40 micrometres, or less than or equal to 35 micrometres.

[0171] One or more of the outer wrapper, the first planar external layer and the second planar external layer may have a thickness between 25 micrometres and 55 micrometres, between 25 micrometres and 45 micrometres, or between 30 micrometres and 45 micrometres.

[0172] One or more of the outer wrapper, the first planar external layer and the second planar external layer may have a length substantially the same as the length of the frame of the planar aerosolgenerating article. One or more of the outer wrapper, the first planar external layer and the second planar external layer may have a length substantially the same as the length of the planar aerosolgenerating article.

[0173] One or more of the first planar external layer and the second planar external layer may have a width substantially the same as the width of the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article. One or more of the first planar external layer and the second planar external layer may have a width substantially the same as the width of the planar aerosol-generating article.

[0174] The cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a thickness greater than or equal to 0.5 millimetres. The cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a thickness greater than or equal to 1.5 millimetres. The cavity may have a thickness greater than or equal to 2.5 millimetres. The cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a thickness greater than or equal to 3.5 millimetres.

[0175] The cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a thickness less than or equal to 4.5 millimetres. The cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a thickness less than or equal to 3.5 millimetres. The cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a thickness less P / 90409.W001

[0176] - 21 - than or equal to 2.5 millimetres. The cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a thickness less than or equal to 1.5 millimetres.

[0177] The cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a thickness between 0.5 millimetres and 4.5 millimetres. The cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a thickness between 1 millimetre and 4.5 millimetres. Preferably, the cavity of the planar aerosolgenerating article may have a thickness between 2.8 millimetres and 3.3 millimetres.

[0178] The cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a length greater than or equal to 14 millimetres. The cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a length equal to a greater than 18 millimetres. The cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a length greater than or equal to 22 millimetres. The cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a thickness greater than or equal to 30 millimetres. The cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a thickness greater than or equal to 38 millimetres.

[0179] The cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a length less than or equal to 40 millimetres. The cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a thickness less than or equal to 34 millimetres. The cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a thickness less than or equal to 28 millimetres. The cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a thickness less than or equal to 22 millimetres. The cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a thickness less than or equal to 18 millimetres.

[0180] The cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a length between 14 millimetres and 40 millimetres. The cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a length between 14 millimetres and 34 millimetres. The cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a length between 24 millimetres and 28 millimetres.

[0181] The cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a width greater than or equal to 4.5 millimetres. The cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a width greater than or equal to 7 millimetres. The cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a width greater than or equal to 11 millimetres.

[0182] The cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a width less than or equal to 13 millimetres. The cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a width less than or equal to 11 millimetres. The cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a width less than or equal to 7 millimetres. The cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a width less than or equal to 5 millimetres.

[0183] The cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a width between 4.5 millimetres and 13 millimetres. The cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a width between 7 millimetres and 10 millimetres. The cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a width between 7.5 millimetres and 8.5 millimetres.

[0184] The cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a length between 14 millimetres and 40 millimetres, a width between 4.5 millimetres and 13 millimetres, and a thickness between 0.5 millimetres and 4.5 millimetres. P / 90409.W001

[0185] - 22 -

[0186] Preferably, the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a length between 20 millimetres and 30 millimetres, a width between 7 millimetres and 10 millimetres, and a thickness between 2.5 millimetres and 4 millimetres.

[0187] Most preferably, the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a length of 26 millimetres, a width of 8 millimetres, and a thickness of 3.1 millimetres.

[0188] The cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a volume of greater than or equal to 30 cubic millimetres, greater than or equal to 100 cubic millimetres, greater than or equal to 300 cubic millimetres, greater than or equal to 500 cubic millimetres, greater than or equal to 700 cubic millimetres, greater than or equal to 900 cubic millimetres, greater than or equal to 1000 cubic millimetres, greater than or equal to 2000 cubic millimetres, or greater than or equal to 30 cubic millimetres.

[0189] The cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a volume of less than or equal to 3500 cubic millimetres, less than or equal to 2500 cubic millimetres, less than or equal to 1500 cubic millimetres, less than or equal to 1000 cubic millimetres, less than or equal to 800 cubic millimetres, less than or equal to 600 cubic millimetres, less than or equal to 500 cubic millimetres, less than or equal to 400 cubic millimetres, or less than or equal to 300 cubic millimetres.

[0190] The cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a volume between 30 cubic millimetres and 3500 cubic millimetres. The cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a volume between 30 cubic millimetres and 2500 cubic millimetres. The cavity of the planar aerosolgenerating article may have a volume between 100 cubic millimetres and 1500 cubic millimetres. The cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a volume between 100 cubic millimetres and 1000 cubic millimetres.

[0191] The cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may be substantially empty.

[0192] The one or more aerosol-generating substrates may comprise an aerosol-generating substrate positioned within the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article. The aerosol-generating substrate positioned within the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may fill the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article.

[0193] The aerosol-generating substrate positioned within the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may comprise an aerosol-generating material. The aerosol-generating material may be any aerosol-generating material described herein. For example, the aerosol-generating material may be in the form of shredded aerosol-generating material.

[0194] The aerosol-generating material may be in the form of a sheet of aerosol-generating material. The sheet of aerosol-generating material may be any sheet of aerosol-generating material described herein. For example, the sheet of aerosol-generating material may be a sheet of homogenised tobacco material.

[0195] The sheet of aerosol-generating material may extend the entire length of the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article. The sheet of aerosol-generating material may extend the entire width of the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article.

[0196] The sheet of aerosol-generating material may be a gathered sheet of aerosol-generating material. That is, the sheet of aerosol-generating material may be convoluted, folded, or otherwise P / 90409.W001

[0197] - 23 - compressed or constricted substantially perpendicular to the transverse direction of the planar aerosolgenerating article.

[0198] The sheet of aerosol-generating material may be a crimped sheet of aerosol-generating material. The sheet of aerosol-generating material may be a corrugated sheet of aerosol-generating material. The crimped sheet of aerosol-generating material or the corrugated sheet of aerosolgenerating material may comprise a plurality of parallel corrugations. For example, the crimped sheet of aerosol-generating material may comprise a plurality of substantially parallel peaks and troughs.

[0199] The plurality of parallel corrugations may be defined by a corrugation profile, in which the corrugation profile is sinusoidal, or triangular, or rectangular, or trapezoidal, or toroidal, or parabolic.

[0200] The plurality of parallel corrugations may define, or form, a plurality of channels between the sheet of aerosol-generating material and one or more walls of the cavity of the planar aerosolgenerating article. The plurality of channels may be a plurality of longitudinally extending channels. The plurality of channels may be a plurality of laterally extending channels. The plurality of channels may defined, or form, at least a portion of the airflow passage extending between the air inlet and air outlet of the planar aerosol-generating article.

[0201] The aerosol-generating material may comprise one or more organic materials such as tobacco, mint, tea and cloves. The aerosol-generating material may comprise one or more of: herb leaf, tobacco leaf, fragments of tobacco ribs, reconstituted tobacco, homogenised tobacco such as cast leaf, extruded tobacco, expanded tobacco, aerosol-generating films and gel compositions.

[0202] The aerosol-generating material may be in the form of shredded aerosol-generating material. The shredded aerosol-generating material may comprise one or more of: strips and strands of aerosolgenerating material, such as strips and strands of tobacco or homogenised tobacco material. The shredded aerosol-generating material may be in the form of a shredded sheet of homogenised tobacco material.

[0203] The aerosol-generating material may be cut filler. The aerosol-generating material may be tobacco cut filler. As used herein, the term “cut filler” is used to describe to a blend of shredded plant material, such as tobacco plant material, including, in particular, one or more of leaf lamina, processed stems and ribs, homogenised plant material.

[0204] The aerosol-generating material may be in the form of a sheet of aerosol-generating material. As used herein, the term “sheet” describes a laminar element having a width and length substantially greater than the thickness thereof. The sheet of aerosol-generating material may be a sheet of plant material. The sheet of aerosol-generating material may be a sheet of tobacco material. The sheet of aerosol-generating material may be a sheet of homogenised tobacco material, such as a cast leaf sheet.

[0205] The aerosol-generating material may comprise one or more aerosol-formers. Suitable aerosolformers are well known in the art and include, but are not limited to, one or more aerosol-formers selected from: polyhydric alcohols, such as propylene glycol, polyethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, 1 , 3-butanediol and glycerine; esters of polyhydric alcohols, such as glycerol mono-, di- or triacetate; and aliphatic esters of mono-, di- or polycarboxylic acids, such as dimethyl dodecanedioate and dimethyl tetradecanedioate. It may be particularly preferable for the aerosol-former to be or comprise one or both of glycerine and propylene glycol. The aerosol former may consist of glycerine or propylene glycol or of a combination of glycerine and propylene glycol.

[0206] The aerosol-generating material may have an aerosol-former content greater than or equal to 1 , 2, 5, 10, or 15 percent by weight on a dry weight basis. The aerosol-generating material may have an aerosol-former content greater than or equal to 15 percent by weight on a dry weight basis, for example greater than 20 by weight on a dry weight basis, or greater than 25 by weight on a dry weight basis, or greater than 30 by weight on a dry weight basis, or greater than 40 by weight on a dry weight basis, or greater than 50 by weight on a dry weight basis.

[0207] The aerosol-generating material may have an aerosol-former content less than or equal to 30 percent by weight on a dry weight basis, less than or equal to 25 percent by weight on a dry weight basis, or less than or equal to 20 percent by weight on a dry weight basis.

[0208] The aerosol-generating material may have an aerosol-former content between 5 percent and 30 percent by weight on a dry weight basis, between 5 percent and 25 percent by weight on a dry weight basis, or between 5 percent and 20 percent by weight on a dry weight basis.

[0209] The aerosol-generating material may have an aerosol-former content between 10 percent and 30 percent by weight on a dry weight basis, between 10 percent and 25 percent by weight on a dry weight basis, or between 10 percent and 20 percent by weight on a dry weight basis.

[0210] The aerosol-generating material may comprise nicotine. The aerosol-generating material may comprise natural nicotine, or synthetic nicotine, or a combination of natural nicotine and synthetic nicotine.

[0211] The aerosol-generating material may comprise at least 0.5 percent by weight of nicotine, at least 1 percent by weight of nicotine, at least 1 .5 percent by weight of nicotine, or at least 2 percent by weight of nicotine. That is, the aerosol-generating material may have a nicotine content of at least 0.5 percent by weight, at least 1 percent by weight, at least 1 .5 percent by weight, or at least 2 percent by weight.

[0212] The aerosol-generating material may be in the form of a plurality of beads. The plurality of beads may have an average particle diameter of between 0.1 mm and 4 mm, for example between 0.5 mm and 4 mm.

[0213] The term “bead” refers to a discrete, solid particle formed of the aerosol-generating substrate. A bead may have a rounded, typically spherical, form. Other terms may be used to define the substrate such as, for example, “granule”.

[0214] Providing the aerosol-generating material as a plurality of beads may provide certain advantages. Beads can be easily handled compared to other aerosol-forming substrates such as fine powders or cut filler. The beads flow easily, and so can reliably and consistently fill the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article during manufacture. This may allow a consistent and reproducible amount of aerosol-forming substrate to be loaded into each article during manufacture. Beads may also be cleaner to handle than powders and cut fillers, which may cause dust in factories, and may leak from planar aerosol-generating articles in transit or in use. By selecting beads with appropriate bead sizes and appropriate particle size distributions, air flow through the cavity of the planar aerosol- P / 90409.W001

[0215] - 25 - generating article may be controlled more reproducibly than would be the case for, say, a cut filler substrate.

[0216] Where a particle is not perfectly spherical, but a diameter of the particle is referred to, the term “diameter” may refer to a largest dimension of the particle. Alternatively, the term “diameter” may refer to the diameter of a perfectly spherical particle having the same volume as the not perfectly spherical particle.

[0217] The term “average particle diameter”, as used herein, may refer to a number average particle diameter. Other methods of determining average particle diameter are known. Thus, the average particle diameter may be, for example, a volume average particle diameter.

[0218] The aerosol-generating material may be in form of a wrapped body of aerosol-generating material, the wrapped body comprising a wrapper at least partially enclosing aerosol-generating material.

[0219] The wrapped body of aerosol-generating material may occupy between 15% and 100% of the interior volume of the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article. The wrapped body of aerosolgenerating material may occupy between 30% and 100% of the interior volume of the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article. The wrapped body of aerosol-generating material may occupy between 50% and 100% of the interior volume of the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article. The wrapped body of aerosol-generating material may occupy between 50% and 80% of the interior volume of the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article. The wrapped body of aerosol-generating material may occupy between 50% and 70% of the interior volume of the cavity of the planar aerosolgenerating article.

[0220] The air inlet may be defined by a front wall of the planar aerosol-generating article. The air inlet may be defined by, and may extend through, the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article. The air inlet may be defined by the peripheral wall of the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article. The air inlet may extend through the peripheral wall of the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article. The air outlet may be defined by a back wall of the planar aerosol-generating article. The air outlet may be defined by, and may extend through, the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article. The air outlet may be defined by the peripheral wall of the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article. The outlet may extend though the peripheral wall of the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article.

[0221] The air inlet may have a round cross-section, a circular cross-section, an oval cross-section, a square cross-section, or a rectangular cross-section. The air outlet may have a round cross-section, a circular cross-section, an oval cross-section, a square cross-section, or a rectangular cross-section.

[0222] The air inlet may be defined by, and may extend through, the first planar external surface. The air inlet may be defined by, and may extend through, the outer wrapper. The air inlet may be defined by, and may extend through, the outer wrapper and the aerosol-generating substrate layer. The air inlet may be defined by, and may extend through, the outer wrapper and the first aerosol-generating substrate layer. The air inlet may be defined by, and may extend through, the first planar external layer and the aerosol-generating substrate layer. The air inlet may be defined by, and may extend through, the first planar external layer and the first aerosol-generating substrate layer. P / 90409.W001

[0223] - 26 -

[0224] The air inlet may be defined by, and may extend through, the second planar external surface. The air inlet may be defined by, and may extend through, the outer wrapper and the second aerosolgenerating substrate layer. The air inlet may be defined by, and may extend through, the second planar external layer and the aerosol-generating substrate layer. The air inlet may be defined by, and may extend through, the second planar external layer and the second aerosol-generating substrate layer.

[0225] The air outlet may be defined by, and may extend through, the first planar external surface. The air outlet may be defined by, and may extend through, the outer wrapper. The air outlet may be defined by, and may extend through, the outer wrapper and the aerosol-generating substrate layer. The air outlet may be defined by, and may extend through, the outer wrapper and the first aerosolgenerating substrate layer. The air outlet may be defined by, and may extend through, the first planar external layer and the aerosol-generating substrate layer. The air outlet may be defined by, and may extend through, the first planar external layer and the first aerosol-generating substrate layer.

[0226] The air outlet may be defined by, and may extend through, the second planar external surface. The air outlet may be defined by, and may extend through, the outer wrapper and the second aerosolgenerating substrate layer. The air outlet may be defined by, and may extend through, the second planar external layer and the aerosol-generating substrate layer. The air outlet may be defined by, and may extend through, the second planar external layer and the second aerosol-generating substrate layer.

[0227] One or both of the air inlet and the air outlet may have an equivalent diameter greater than or equal to 0.1 millimetres, greater than or equal to 0.4 millimetres, greater than or equal to 0.7 millimetres, or greater than or equal to 1.0 millimetres.

[0228] One or both of the air inlet and the air outlet may have an equivalent diameter less than or equal to 3 millimetres, less than or equal to 2.7 millimetres, less than or equal to 2.4 millimetres, less than or equal to 2.1 millimetres. The air inlet may have an equivalent diameter less than or equal to 2.7 millimetres, less than or equal to 1 .8 millimetres, or less than or equal to 1 .5 millimetres.

[0229] One or both of the air inlet and the air outlet may have an equivalent diameter between 0.1 millimetres and 3 millimetres, between 0.1 millimetres and 2.4 millimetres, between 0.4 millimetres and 2.1 millimetres, between 0.4 millimetres and 1.8 millimetres, between 0.7 millimetres and 1.5 millimetres, or between 1.0 millimetres and 1.5 millimetres.

[0230] The air inlet may have a width less than a width of the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article. The air outlet may have a width less than a width of the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article. The air inlet may have a thickness less than a thickness of the cavity of the planar aerosolgenerating article. The air outlet may have a thickness less than a thickness of the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article.

[0231] One or both of the air inlet and the air outlet may a width of between 0.3 millimetres and 3 millimetres or between 0.5 millimetres and 2 millimetres.

[0232] One or both of the air inlet and the air outlet may have a thickness of between 0.3 millimetres and 3 millimetres or between 0.5 millimetres and 2 millimetres.

[0233] Preferably, the air inlet may have a width of between 0.3 millimetres and 3 millimetres, and a thickness of between 0.3 millimetres and 3 millimetres. P / 90409.W001

[0234] - 27 -

[0235] Preferably, the air outlet may have a width of between 0.3 millimetres and 3 millimetres, and a thickness of between 0.3 millimetres and 3 millimetres.

[0236] Advantageously, a planar aerosol-generating article having an air outlet or air inlet with a width of between 0.3 millimetres and 3 millimetres and a thickness of between 0.3 millimetres and 3 millimetres may provide for a relatively large inlet or outlet opening while allowing for improved retention of the aerosol-generating substrate within the planar aerosol-generating article. Improved retention of the aerosol-generating substrate within the planar aerosol-generating article may reduce the risk of aerosol-generating substrate falling out of the planar aerosol-generating article.

[0237] A ratio of the width of the air inlet to the thickness of the air inlet may be between 0.33 and 3. A ratio of the width of the air inlet to the thickness of the air inlet may be between 0.5 and 1 .5. A ratio of the width of the air inlet to the thickness of the air inlet may be between 0.75 and 1 .25.

[0238] A ratio of the width of the air outlet to the thickness of the air outlet may be between 0.33 and 3. A ratio of the width of the air outlet to the thickness of the air outlet may be between 0.5 and 1 .5. A ratio of the width of the air outlet to the thickness of the air outlet may be between 0.75 and 1 .25.

[0239] The planar aerosol-generating article may comprise a plurality of air inlets. One or each of the air inlets may have one or more of the features of the air inlet described herein.

[0240] The planar aerosol-generating article may comprise a plurality of air outlets. One or each of the air outlets may have one or more of the features of the air outlet described herein.

[0241] The planar aerosol-generating article may comprise a filter element positioned downstream of the aerosol-forming substrate. The planar aerosol-generating article may comprise a filter element positioned downstream of the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article. The planar aerosolgenerating article may comprise a filter element at least partially positioned within the air outlet. The planar aerosol-generating article may comprise a filter element positioned within, and may be positioned at a downstream end of, the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article.

[0242] The planar aerosol-generating article may comprise a filter element positioned upstream of the aerosol-forming substrate. The planar aerosol-generating article may comprise a filter element positioned upstream of the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article. The planar aerosolgenerating article may comprise a filter element at least partially positioned within the air inlet. The planar aerosol-generating article may comprise a filter element positioned within, and may be positioned at an upstream end of, the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article.

[0243] The filter element may comprise one or more segments of a fibrous filtration material. Suitable fibrous filtration materials would be known to the skilled person. The filter element may comprise a cellulose acetate.

[0244] A ratio between the length and the thickness of the planar aerosol-generating article, and between the width and the thickness of the planar aerosol-generating article may be greater than 2:1 , greater than 5:1 , greater than 10:1 , greater than 12:1 , or greater than 15:1.

[0245] A ratio between the length and the thickness of the planar aerosol-generating article, and between the width and the thickness of the planar aerosol-generating article may be less than 15:1 , less than 12:1 , less than 10:1 , less than 5:1 , or less than 2.5:1 P / 90409.W001

[0246] - 28 -

[0247] A ratio between the length and the thickness of the planar aerosol-generating article, and between the width and the thickness of the planar aerosol-generating article may be between 2:1 and 15:1 , between 2:1 and 12:1 , between 2:1 and 10:1 , or between 5:1 and 10:1.

[0248] A ratio between the length and the width of the planar aerosol-generating article may be greater than 1 :1 , greater than 2:1 , greater than 3:1 , greater than 4:1 , or greater than 5:1.

[0249] A ratio between the length and the width of the planar aerosol-generating article may be less than 10:1 , less than 8:1 , less than 5:1 , less than 4:1 , less than 3:1 , or less than 2:1.

[0250] A ratio between the length and the width of the planar aerosol-generating article may be between 1 :1 and 10:1 , between 1 :1 and 5:1 , between 1 :1 and 4:1 , between 1 :1 and 3:1 , between 2:1 and 4:1 , or between 2:1 and 3:1.

[0251] The planar aerosol-generating article may have a length greater than or equal to 15 millimetres, greater than or equal to 20 millimetres, greater than or equal to 25 millimetres, greater than or equal to 30 millimetres, greater than or equal to 35 millimetres, or greater than or equal to 40 millimetres.

[0252] The planar aerosol-generating article may have a length less than or equal to 45 millimetres, less than or equal to 40 millimetres, less than or equal to 35 millimetres, or less than or equal to 30 millimetres.

[0253] The planar aerosol-generating article may have a length between 15 millimetres and 45 millimetres, between 20 millimetres and 40 millimetres, between 20 millimetres and 35 millimetres, or between 25 millimetres and 30 millimetres.

[0254] The planar aerosol-generating article may have a width equal to greater than 3 millimetres, greater than 5 millimetres, greater than 7.5 millimetres, greater than 9 millimetres, greater than 11 millimetres, or greater than 13 millimetres.

[0255] The planar aerosol-generating article may have a width less than or equal to 17 millimetres, less than or equal to 15 millimetres, less than or equal to 12.5 millimetres, less than or equal to 11 millimetres, or less than or equal to 9 millimetres.

[0256] The planar aerosol-generating article may have a width between 3 millimetres and 17 millimetres, between 5 millimetres and 15 millimetres, between 7.5 millimetres and 12.5 millimetres, or between 9 millimetres and 11 millimetres.

[0257] The planar aerosol-generating article may have a thickness equal to greater than 1 millimetre, greater than or equal to 1.5 millimetres, greater than or equal to 2 millimetres, greater than or equal to 2.5 millimetres, greater than or equal to 3 millimetres, greater than or equal to 3.5 millimetres, greater than or equal to 4 millimetres, or greater than or equal to 4.5 millimetres.

[0258] The planar aerosol-generating article may have a thickness less than or equal to 5.5 millimetres, less than or equal to 5 millimetres, less than or equal to 4.5 millimetres, less than or equal to 4 millimetres, less than or equal to 3.5 millimetres, less than or equal to 3 millimetres, less than or equal to 2.5 millimetres, or less than or equal to 2 millimetres.

[0259] The planar aerosol-generating article may have a thickness between 1 millimetres and 5 millimetres, between 1.5 millimetres and 5 millimetres, between 2 millimetres and 4.5 millimetres, between 2.5 millimetres and 4 millimetres, or between 3 millimetres and 3.5 millimetres. P / 90409.W001

[0260] - 29 -

[0261] As used herein, the term “aerosol-generating article” refers to an article comprising an aerosolgenerating substrate. The article may be heated in use to produce and deliver an inhalable aerosol to a consumer.

[0262] As used herein, the term “aerosol-generating substrate” refers to a substrate capable of releasing volatile compounds upon heating, for example compounds which, in use, cool and condense to generate an aerosol.

[0263] As used herein, the term “aerosol-generating device” refers to a device that, in use, interacts with, for example heats, an aerosol-generating substrate of a planar aerosol-generating article to generate an aerosol.

[0264] As used herein, the term “planar” refers to a feature generally formed in a single Euclidean plane and not wrapped around or otherwise conformed to fit a curved or other non-planar shape. A planar surface may extend in two dimensions in a single Euclidean plane. A planar object may extend in two dimensions in a single Euclidean plane substantially more than in a third dimension perpendicular to the plane. More specifically, a planar object may extend in a first dimension and a second dimension perpendicular to the first dimension at least two, five or ten times further than the object extends in a third dimension perpendicular to the first and second dimensions.

[0265] As used herein, the term “transverse” refers to a direction extending between the first planar external surface and the second planar external surface. The transverse direction may also be referred to as the “z-direction”.

[0266] As used herein, the term “longitudinal” refers to a direction that is perpendicular to the transverse direction. For example, a direction between a front wall and a back wall of the planar aerosol-generating article. The longitudinal direction may also be referred to as the “x-direction”.

[0267] As used herein, the term “lateral” refers to a direction that is perpendicular to the transverse direction and the longitudinal direction. For example, a direction from a first side wall to a second side wall of the planar aerosol-generating article. The lateral direction may also be referred to as the “y- direction”.

[0268] As used herein, the term “thickness” refers to a maximum dimension of the planar aerosolgenerating article or a component of the planar aerosol-generating article in the transverse direction.

[0269] As used herein, the term “length” refers to a maximum dimension of the planar aerosolgenerating article or a component of the planar aerosol-generating article in the longitudinal direction.

[0270] As used herein, the term “width” refers to a maximum dimension of the planar aerosolgenerating article or a component of the planar aerosol-generating article in the lateral direction.

[0271] As used herein, the terms “upstream” and “downstream” refer to the relative positions of components, or portions of components, of the planar aerosol-generating article in relation to the direction in which the air or aerosol is transported through the planar aerosol-generating article during use.

[0272] As used herein, the term “aerosol former” may refer to any suitable known compound or mixture of compounds that, in use, facilitates formation of an aerosol. The aerosol may be a dense and stable aerosol. The aerosol may be substantially resistant to thermal degradation at the operating temperature of the aerosol-generating substrate or planar aerosol-generating article. P / 90409.W001

[0273] - 30 -

[0274] As used herein, the term “aerosol former content” may refer to aerosol former content in percent on a dry weight basis, unless otherwise specified.

[0275] As used herein, a "susceptor" refers to a conductive element that heats up when subjected to a changing magnetic field. This may be the result of eddy currents induced in the susceptor element and / or hysteresis losses.

[0276] As used herein, the term “hydrophobic” refers to a surface exhibiting water repelling properties. One useful way to determine this is to measure the water contact angle. The “water contact angle” is the angle, conventionally measured through the liquid, where a liquid / vapour interface meets a solid surface. It quantifies the wettability of a solid surface by a liquid via the Young equation.

[0277] As used herein, the term “equivalent diameter” of an opening or an aperture is used herein to denote the diameter of a circular opening or aperture having the same cross-sectional area as the opening or aperture.

[0278] The invention is defined in the claims. However, below there is provided a non-exhaustive list of non-limiting examples. Any one or more of the features of these examples may be combined with any one or more features of another example, embodiment, or aspect described herein.

[0279] Example 1. A container for consumer goods, preferably for planar aerosol-generating articles, the container comprising: an outer sleeve comprising opposing, first and second open ends; and an inner container disposed within the outer sleeve, wherein the inner container is slideable along the outer sleeve, preferably wherein the inner container is slideable within the outer sleeve.

[0280] Example 2. A container according to Example 1 , wherein the inner container comprises first and second portions hingedly connected to each other, wherein at least the first portion of the inner container comprises a compartment for holding a plurality of aerosol-generating articles.

[0281] Example 3. A container according to Example 2, wherein the inner container is slidable with respect to the outer sleeve between a first position, in which the compartment is disposed entirely within the outer sleeve, and a second position, in which at least a portion of the interior of the compartment is accessible outside of the outer sleeve.

[0282] Example 4. A container according to Example 3, wherein, in the first position, the inner container is disposed entirely within the outer sleeve.

[0283] Example 5. A container according to Example 3 or 4, wherein, in the second position, the first portion of the inner container is pivotable with respect to the second portion of the inner container.

[0284] Example 6. A container according to any one of Examples 3 to 5, wherein, in the second position, the compartment of the inner container is located completely outside of the outer sleeve.

[0285] Example 7. A container according to any one of Examples 3 to 6, wherein, in the first position, the first portion of the inner container is not pivotable with respect to the second portion of the inner container.

[0286] Example 8. A container according to any one of Examples 3 to 7, wherein the second portion of the inner container comprises a second compartment for holding a plurality of aerosolgenerating articles. P / 90409.W001

[0287] - 31 -

[0288] Example 9. A container according to any one of Examples 2 to 4, wherein the second portion of the inner container comprises a hinged panel configured to partially overlie the compartment.

[0289] Example 10. A container according to Example 9, wherein the hinged panel is hingedly connected to the first portion of the inner container, preferably wherein the hinged panel is configured to overlie the top of the compartment when positioned within the outer sleeve.

[0290] Example 11. A container according to Example 10, wherein the hinged panel is configured to form a substantially right angle with respect to the first portion of the inner container.

[0291] Example 12. A container according to any one of Examples 9 to 11 , wherein the outer sleeve and the hinged panel are configured to engage each other such that the panel is retained in an engaged configuration in which the hinged panel overlies the compartment and obstructs access to the interior of the compartment via the first open end of the outer sleeve.

[0292] Example 13. A container according to Example 12, wherein, in the engaged configuration, sliding movement of the inner container towards the first open end of the outer sleeve is obstructed.

[0293] Example 14. A container according to Example 12 or 13, wherein, in the engaged configuration, the inner container is in the first position and the hinged panel is located within the outer sleeve.

[0294] Example 15. A container according to any one of Examples 9 to 14, wherein the outer sleeve comprises an upper folded flap defining an engagement edge configured to engage with the hinged panel.

[0295] Example 16. A container according to any one of the preceding Examples, wherein the outer sleeve and the first portion of the inner container are configured to engage each other so as to obstruct sliding movement of the inner container towards the second open end of the outer sleeve.

[0296] Example 17. A container according to Example 16, wherein the outer sleeve comprises at least one lower folded flap defining an engagement edge configured to engage with the first portion of the inner container.

[0297] Example 18. A container according to any one of Examples 3 to 17, wherein, in the second position, the first portion of the inner container is angled with respect to the second portion of the inner container.

[0298] Example 19. A container according to any one of Examples 3 to 18, wherein, in the second position, at least a portion of the second portion of the inner container is located within the outer sleeve.

[0299] Example 20. A container according to any one of Examples 2 to 19, wherein the inner container comprises a hinge line connecting the first and second portions together.

[0300] Example 21. A container according to any one of Examples 2 to 20, wherein the inner container further comprises an insert received within a compartment of the inner container, the insert dividing the compartment into a plurality of sub-compartments.

[0301] Example 22. A container according to Example 21 , wherein a width of each subcompartment is at least 9 millimetres.

[0302] Example 23. A container according to Example 21 or 22, wherein a width of each subcompartment is no greater than 11 millimetres. P / 90409.W001

[0303] - 32 -

[0304] Example 24. A container according to any one of Examples 21 to 23, wherein the insert comprises a pull tab.

[0305] Example 25. A container according to any one of Examples 3 to 24, wherein the outer sleeve and the inner container are configured to engage each other such that the inner container is retained in the first position.

[0306] Example 26. A container according to any one of the preceding Examples, wherein the outer sleeve comprises a first engaging element and the inner container has a second engaging element configured to engage with the first engaging element to form a locking mechanism for preventing the inner container from sliding with respect to the outer sleeve.

[0307] Example 27. A container according to Example 26, wherein the second engaging element comprises a protruding element and the first engaging element comprises a corresponding aperture in the outer sleeve.

[0308] Example 28. A container according to Example 1 , wherein the outer sleeve and inner container are substantially elongate.

[0309] Example 29. A container according to Example 1 or 28, wherein the inner container comprises a compartment for holding a plurality of aerosol-generating articles, preferably planar aerosol-generating articles.

[0310] Example 30. A container according to any one of Examples 1 , 28 and 29, wherein the compartment is configured to receive at least one row of transversely arranged aerosol-generating articles, preferably planar aerosol-generating articles.

[0311] Example 31. A container according to any one of Examples 1 and 28 to 30, wherein the outer sleeve comprises a first restricting element configured to engage the inner container so as to prevent or restrict movement in one direction, preferably towards one end of the outer sleeve.

[0312] Example 32. A container according to Example 31 , wherein the first restricting element is located at or in proximity to one of the open ends of the outer sleeve.

[0313] Example 33. A container according to Example 31 or 32, wherein the first restricting element is configured to engage an end of the inner container so as to prevent or block movement of the inner container in one direction.

[0314] Example 34. A container according to any one of Examples 31 to 33, wherein the inner container comprises an end cover panel at each end of the inner container, wherein each end cover panel obstructs access to the compartment when the inner container is entirely within the outer sleeve and preferably wherein at least one of the end cover panels engages with the first restricting element.

[0315] Example 35. A container according to any one of Examples 31 to 34, wherein the inner container comprises a second restricting element configured to engage the first restricting element so as to restrict exit of the inner container from the outer sleeve, preferably to restrict complete exit or extraction of the inner container from the outer sleeve.

[0316] Example 36. A container according to Example 35, wherein the first restricting element is a flap element extending into the interior of the outer sleeve, preferably from an interior surface of a bottom wall of the outer sleeve. P / 90409.W001

[0317] - 33 -

[0318] Example 37. A container according to Example 35 or 36, wherein the second restricting element is a flap element extending from the underside of the inner container.

[0319] Example 38. A container according to any one of Examples 31 to 37, wherein the first restricting element is configured to engage a middle portion of the inner container so as to restrict movement towards in one direction, preferably towards one end of the outer sleeve.

[0320] Example 39. A container according to Example 35, wherein the second restricting element is located at a position between both ends of the inner container and is configured to engage the first restricting element so as to restrict sliding of the inner container in one direction and ensure that no more than at least 60 percent of the length of inner container is extracted from the outer sleeve.

[0321] Example 40. A container according to any one of Examples 35 to 39, wherein the outer sleeve has a third restricting element at an opposite end to the first restricting element, the second restricting element being configured to engage the third restricting element so as to restrict sliding of the inner container in another direction.

[0322] Example 41 . A container according to any one of Examples 1 and 28 to 40, wherein interior of the container is visible through the outer sleeve.

[0323] Example 42. A container according to Example 41 , wherein the outer sleeve comprises a window or cut out on a sidewall of the outer sleeve.

[0324] Example 43. A container according to any one of Examples 1 and 28 to 42, wherein the inner container further comprises an insert received within a compartment of the inner container, the insert dividing the compartment into a plurality of sub-compartments.

[0325] Example 44. A container according to Example 43 and any one of Examples 35 to 39, wherein the insert comprises the second restricting element.

[0326] Example 45. A container according to any one of the preceding Examples, further comprising: a removeable cover closing an open end of the outer sleeve; or two removeable covers, each respectively closing an open end of the outer sleeve.

[0327] Example 46. A container according to Example 45, wherein the cover or covers are tearable from the outer sleeve.

[0328] Example 47. A container according to any one of the preceding Examples, wherein the outer sleeve and the inner container are configured to engage each other such that the inner container is retained within the outer sleeve.

[0329] Example 48. A container according to any one of the preceding Examples, wherein the inner container contains or holds a plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles.

[0330] Example 49. A container of planar aerosol-generating articles comprising a container according to any one of the preceding Examples and a plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles held by or in the inner container.

[0331] Example 50. A container according to Example 49, wherein each planar aerosol-generating article has a length extending in an x-direction, a width extending in a y-direction, and a thickness extending in a z-direction. Example 51 . A container according to Example 50, wherein the thickness of each planar aerosol-generating article is less than 50 percent of both the length and the width of the planar aerosolgenerating article.

[0332] Example 52. A container according to Example 50 or 51 , wherein a ratio between the length and the thickness of each planar aerosol-generating article, and between the width and the thickness of each planar aerosol-generating article is greater than 2:1 , greater than 5:1 , greater than 10:1 , greater than 12:1 , or greater than 15:1.

[0333] Example 53. A container according to any one of Examples 50 to 52, wherein a ratio between the length and the thickness of each planar aerosol-generating article, and between the width and the thickness of each planar aerosol-generating article is less than 15:1 , less than 12:1 , less than 10:1 , less than 5:1 , or less than 2.5:1.

[0334] Example 54. A container according to any one of Examples 50 to 53, wherein a ratio between the length and the thickness of each planar aerosol-generating article, and between the width and the thickness of each planar aerosol-generating article is between 2:1 and 15:1 , between 2:1 and 12:1 , between 2:1 and 10:1 , or between 5:1 and 10:1.

[0335] Example 55. A container according to any one of Examples 50 to 54, wherein a ratio between the length and the width of each planar aerosol-generating article is greater than 1 :1 , greater than 2:1 , greater than 3:1 , greater than 4:1 , or greater than 5:1.

[0336] Example 56. A container according to any one of Examples 50 to 55, wherein a ratio between the length and the width of each planar aerosol-generating article is less than 10:1 , less than 8:1 , less than 5:1 , less than 4:1 , less than 3:1 , or less than 2:1.

[0337] Example 57. A container according to any one of Examples 50 to 56, wherein a ratio between the length and the width of each planar aerosol-generating article is between 1 :1 and 10:1 , between 1 :1 and 5:1 , between 1 :1 and 4:1 , between 1 :1 and 3:1 , between 2:1 and 4:1 , or between 2:1 and 3:1 .

[0338] Example 58. A container according to any one of Examples 50 to 57, wherein each planar aerosol-generating article has a quadrilaterally-faced hexahedron shape.

[0339] Example 59. A container according to any one of Examples 50 to 58, wherein each planar aerosol-generating article comprises one or more aerosol-forming substrates for producing an aerosol.

[0340] Example 60. A container according to any one of Examples 50 to 59, wherein each planar aerosol-generating article comprises: a cavity; an air inlet and an air outlet; and an airflow passage extending between the air inlet and the air outlet through the cavity.

[0341] Example 61. A container according to Example 60, when dependent on Example 58, wherein at least one of the one or more aerosol-forming substrates is disposed in the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article.

[0342] Example 62. A container according to Example 60 or 61 , wherein each planar aerosolgenerating article further comprises: a first planar external surface; a second planar external surface; and a frame positioned between the first planar external surface and the second planar external surface, wherein the frame of each planar aerosol-generating article at least partially defines the cavity of each planar aerosol-generating article. P / 90409.W001

[0343] - 35 -

[0344] Example 1 A. A container of planar aerosol-generating articles, the container comprising: an outer sleeve comprising opposing, first and second open ends; an inner container disposed within the outer sleeve, wherein the inner container is slideable along the outer sleeve; and a plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles held by the inner container.

[0345] Example 2A. A container according to Example 1 A, wherein the inner container comprises first and second portions hingedly connected to each other, wherein at least the first portion of the inner container comprises a compartment for holding the plurality of aerosol-generating articles; and wherein the inner container is slidable with respect to the outer sleeve between a first position, in which the compartment is disposed entirely within the outer sleeve, and a second position, in which at least a portion of the interior of the compartment is accessible outside of the outer sleeve, preferably wherein, in the first position, the inner container is disposed entirely within the outer sleeve.

[0346] Example 3A. A container according to Example 2A, wherein, in the second position, the first portion of the inner container is pivotable with respect to the second portion of the inner container.

[0347] Example 4A. A container according to Example 2A or 3A, wherein, in the second position, the compartment of the inner container is located completely outside of the outer sleeve.

[0348] Example 5A. A container according to Example 2A, wherein the second portion of the inner container comprises a hinged panel configured to partially overlie the compartment.

[0349] Example 6A. A container according to Example 5A, wherein the outer sleeve and the hinged panel are configured to engage each other such that the panel is retained in an engaged configuration in which the hinged panel overlies the compartment and obstructs access to the interior of the compartment via the first open end of the outer sleeve.

[0350] Example 7A. A container according to Example 6A, wherein the outer sleeve comprises an upper folded flap defining an engagement edge configured to engage with the hinged panel.

[0351] Example 8A. A container according to any one of Examples 2A to 7A, wherein the outer sleeve and the first portion of the inner container are configured to engage each other so as to obstruct sliding movement of the inner container towards the second open end of the outer sleeve, preferably wherein the outer sleeve comprises at least one lower folded flap defining an engagement edge configured to engage with the first portion of the inner container.

[0352] Example 9A. A container according to any one of Examples 2A to 8A, wherein the inner container comprises an insert received within a compartment of the inner container, the insert dividing the compartment into a plurality of sub-compartments.

[0353] Example 10A. A container according to any one of the preceding Examples, wherein the outer sleeve comprises a first engaging element and the inner container has a second engaging element configured to engage with the first engaging element to form a locking mechanism for preventing the inner container from sliding with respect to the outer sleeve.

[0354] Example 11 A. A container according to any one of the preceding Examples, wherein the outer sleeve comprises a first restricting element configured to engage the inner container, and wherein the inner container comprises a second restricting element configured to engage the first restricting element so as to restrict exit of the inner container from the outer sleeve. P / 90409.W001

[0355] - 36 -

[0356] Example 12A. A container according to Example 11 A, wherein the second restricting element is located at a position between both ends of the inner container and is configured to engage the first restricting element so as to restrict sliding of the inner container in one direction and ensure that no more than at least 60 percent of the length of inner container is extracted from the outer sleeve.

[0357] Example 13A. A container according to any one of the preceding Examples, further comprising: a removeable cover closing an open end of the outer sleeve; or two removeable covers, each respectively closing an open end of the outer sleeve.

[0358] Example 14A. A container according to any one of the preceding Examples, wherein the thickness of each planar aerosol-generating article is less than 50 percent of both the length and the width of the planar aerosol-generating article.

[0359] Example 15A. A container according to any one of the preceding Examples, wherein each planar aerosol-generating article has a quadrilaterally-faced hexahedron shape.

[0360] The invention will be further described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying figures in which:

[0361] Figures 1 a to 1 d show perspective views of a container in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0362] Figures 2a and 2b show perspective views of a container in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;

[0363] Figure 3a shows an exploded, perspective view of a container in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;

[0364] Figure 3b shows a top perspective view of a container in accordance with the embodiment of the present invention shown in Figure 3a;

[0365] Figure 3f shows a bottom perspective view of a container in accordance with the embodiment of the present invention shown in Figures 3a and 3b;

[0366] Figures 3c, 3d, 3g, and 3h show perspective views of a container in accordance with the embodiment of the present invention shown in Figures 3a, 3b, and 3f;

[0367] Figures 4a and 4b show perspective views of a container in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention similar to that shown in Figures 3a to 3h;

[0368] Figures 5a, 5b, 5e, and 5f show perspective views of a container in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;

[0369] Figure 5c shows an exploded, perspective view of a container in accordance with the embodiment of the present invention shown in Figures 5a, 5b, 5e, and 5f;

[0370] Figure 5d shows a partial view of a container in accordance with the embodiment of the present invention shown in Figures 5a, 5b, 5c, 5e, and 5f;

[0371] Figure 6 shows a perspective view of an alternative inner container to the one used in the embodiment of the present invention shown in Figures 5a to 5f;

[0372] Figures 7a and 7c show perspective views of an alternative outer sleeve to the one used in the embodiment of the present invention shown in Figures 5a to 5f; P / 90409.W001

[0373] - 37 -

[0374] Figures 7b and 7d show perspective views of an alternative inner container to the one used in the embodiment of the present invention shown in Figures 5a to 5f;

[0375] Figures 8a shows a perspective view of an alternative outer sleeve to the one used in the embodiment of the present invention shown in Figures 5a to 5f; and

[0376] Figures 8b shows a perspective view of an alternative inner container to the one used in the embodiment of the present invention shown in Figures 5a to 5f.

[0377] Figures 1a to 1d illustrate an embodiment of a container 100 of planar aerosol-generating articles 30. The container 100 comprises an outer sleeve 10 comprising opposing, first and second open ends 5, 7. The container 100 comprises an inner container 20, in the form of a tray, disposed within the outer sleeve 10. The inner container 20 is slideable within and along the outer sleeve 10 and contains a plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles 30.

[0378] The inner container 20 comprises first and second portions 20a, 20b hingedly connected to each other. Each portion 20a, 20b comprises a compartment 26a, 26b for holding the plurality of aerosol-generating articles. The inner container 20 is slidable with respect to the outer sleeve between a first position (shown in Figure 1 d), in which the inner container 20 is disposed entirely within the outer sleeve 10, and a second position (shown in Figures 1 b and 1c), in which the interior of one of the compartments 26a, 26b of the inner container 20 is accessible outside of the outer sleeve 10.

[0379] Each compartment 26a, 26b comprises an open top end 27. The open top ends 27 of the first and second compartments 26a, 26b face each other in the first portion of the inner container. Each portion 20a, 20b comprises opposing side walls 23, 24, a front wall 25, a rear wall 22 opposing the front wall 25, and a bottom wall 21 (see Figures 1 b and 1c, for example). Such walls 21 , 22, 23, 24, 25 define the compartments 26a, 26b of each portion 20a, 20b of the inner container 20. As seen in Figure 1 b, the front wall 25 is shorter than the rear wall 22 such top portions of the aerosol-generating articles 30 held in the compartments 26a, 26b are exposed, particularly when the inner container 20 is in the second position. The bottom walls 21 of each of the first and second portions 20a, 20b of the inner container 20 define opposing, closed ends of the inner container 20.

[0380] Each compartment 26a, 26b is configured to receive a plurality of longitudinally arranged aerosol-generating articles 30, where the articles 30 are oriented in a direction parallel to a longitudinal direction defined along the outer sleeve 10 and extending between its open ends 5, 7.

[0381] In the second position, as shown in Figure 1 b, the first portion 20a of the inner container 20 is pivotable with respect to the second portion 20b of the inner container 20. In such a position, a first compartment 26a of the first portion 20a of the inner container is located completely outside of the outer sleeve 20.

[0382] In a third position, as shown in Figure 1 c, the second portion 20b of the inner container 20 is pivotable with respect to the first portion 20a of the inner container 20. In such a position, a second compartment 26b of the second portion 20b of the inner container is located completely outside of the outer sleeve 20.

[0383] The exterior sleeve 10 is formed as an open-ended, flat rectangular box, comprising a bottom wall 11 , a top wall 12, and opposing sidewalls 13, 14. The inner container 20, which is also correspondingly rectangular, fits snugly within the outer sleeve 10. The inner container 20 is configured P / 90409.W001

[0384] - 38 - for bi-directional sliding movement within the sleeve 10, either in a forward or a rearward direction (see Figures 1 b and 1c).

[0385] As shown in Figure 1d, the container 100 can further comprise two removeable covers 70, each respectively closing an open end of the outer sleeve. Each of the covers 70 are removeable from the outer sleeve 10 so as to reveal an open end of the outer sleeve and an end of the inner container. Each cover 70 may be tearable. The removeable covers 70 can prevent inadvertent sliding of the inner container 20 and also provide a means of tamper-evident closure for the container 100.

[0386] Figures 2a and 2b illustrate another embodiment of a container 200 comprising an outer sleeve 210 comprising opposing, first and second open ends 5, 7. The container 200 comprises an inner container 220 disposed within the outer sleeve 210. The inner container 220 is slideable within and along the outer sleeve 210 and contains or holds a plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles 30.

[0387] As opposed to container 100 shown in Figures 1 a to 1c, the inner container 220 of container 200 consists of an inner tray 220 that may slide out of either end 5, 7 of the outer sleeve 210. The inner tray 220 does not comprise two hinged portions like the inner container 20 of the container 100.

[0388] As shown in Figure 2a, the outer sleeve 210 and the inner container 220 are configured to engage each other such that the inner container 220 is retained within the outer sleeve 210 in a first position in which the inner container 220 is disposed entirely within the outer sleeve 210. The outer sleeve 210 comprises a first engaging element 81 and the inner container 220 comprises a second engaging element 80. The second engaging element 80 is configured to engage with the first engaging element 81 to form a locking mechanism for preventing the inner container 220 from sliding with respect to the outer sleeve 210. The second engaging element 80 comprises a protruding element and the first engaging element 81 comprises a corresponding aperture in the outer sleeve 210. Such an aperture is a cut-out in the outer sleeve 210. The locking mechanism may prevent inadvertent sliding of the inner container 220 within the outer sleeve 210. A user may disengage the locking mechanism by disengaging the second engaging element 80 from the first engaging element 81. A user may disengage the locking mechanism by pressing down on the second engaging element 80 so as to disengage it from the first engaging element 81 while also pushing on one end of the inner container 220 through an open end of the outer sleeve 210.

[0389] The inner tray 220 comprises two compartments, one of which is shown in Figures 2a and 2b when a portion of the inner tray 220 has slid out of one end of the outer sleeve 210. The inner container 220 comprises an insert 60 received within each compartment. The majority of each insert 60 is arranged at the bottom of a compartment. Each insert 60 may comprise a cardboard sheet. The majority of each insert 60 is arranged to be located below the planar aerosol-generating articles 30 such that when the insert 60 is lifted the articles 30 are also lifted from the compartment to facilitate their extraction from the inner tray 220, as shown in Figure 2b. As shown in Figure 2a, the articles 30 lie flush with the edges of the inner tray. As shown in Figures 2a and 2b, each insert 60 comprises a pull tab 82 to enable a user to pull on the insert 60 so as to lift the article 30 from the inner tray 220.

[0390] The containers shown in Figures 2a and 2b are the same and differ only in that the container 200 shown in Figure 2a comprises the locking mechanism described above. P / 90409.W001

[0391] - 39 -

[0392] Figures 3a to 3h illustrate another embodiment of a container 300 comprising an outer sleeve 310 comprising opposing, first and second open ends 5, 7. The container 300 comprises an inner container 320 disposed within the outer sleeve 310. The inner container 320 is slideable within and along the outer sleeve 310 and contains or holds a plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles 30.

[0393] The inner container 320 comprises first and second portions 320a, 320b hingedly connected to each other. A first portion 320a comprises a compartment 326 for holding the plurality of aerosolgenerating articles. The inner container 320 is slidable, up and down, with respect to the outer sleeve 310 between a first position (shown in Figure 3b), in which the inner container 320 is disposed entirely within the outer sleeve 310, and a second position (shown in Figures 3d and 3e), in which the interior of the compartment 326 is accessible outside of the outer sleeve 310.

[0394] As shown in Figures 3a, 3d, and 3e, the compartment 326 is configured to receive a plurality of longitudinally arranged aerosol-generating articles 30, where the articles 30 are oriented in a direction parallel to a longitudinal direction defined along the outer sleeve 310 and extending between its open ends 5, 7.

[0395] The second portion 320b comprises a hinged panel 323 configured to at least partially overlie the compartment 326. The hinged panel 323 is hingedly connected to the first portion 320a. The hinged panel 323 is pivotable with respect to the first portion 320a about a hinge line 323 of the inner container 320.

[0396] The inner container 320 also comprises an insert 340 configured to be received within the compartment 326. The insert 340 is removeable. The insert 340 is configured to divide the compartment 326 into a plurality of sub-compartments 342 for receiving a plurality of planar aerosolgenerating articles 30. As shown in Figure 3a, the insert 340 divides the compartment 326 into a five sub-compartments 342.

[0397] As shown in Figure 3e, the inner container 320 can be pushed out of the outer sleeve 310 by user from its position shown in Figure 3b. In the first position mentioned above (shown in Figure 3b), in which the inner container 320 is disposed entirely within the outer sleeve 310, the hinged panel 330 can be engaged with the outer sleeve 310 such the panel 330 is retained in an engaged configuration in which the hinged panel 330 overlies the compartment 326 and obstructs access to the interior of the compartment 326 via the first, top open end 7 of the outer sleeve 310. The outer sleeve 310 comprises an upperfolded flap 312 defining an engagement edge 317. The hinged panel 330 engages with the upper folded flap 312, as shown in Figure 3b, and effectively defines a lid that prevents access to the compartment 326.

[0398] A user may push the bottom of the inner container 320 via the bottom, open end 5 of the outer sleeve 310. As a user pushes on the inner container 320 from its bottom, the hinged panel 330 may overcome the resistance of its engagement with the folded flap 312 and release itself, as shown in Figure 3c. As shown in Figure 3d, a user may continue to push the inner container 320 upwards, or the user may pull on the hinged panel 330, so as to access the compartment 326 and the planar aerosol-generating articles 30 held therein in a second position. As shown in Figures 3d and 3e, once a user has extracted a planar aerosol-generating article 30 for consumption from the container 300, the user may push down on the hinged panel 330 to slide the inner container 320 entirely back into the outer sleeve 310. The hinged panel 330 is pivotable and may overlie the compartment 326 and the planar aerosol-generating article 30 located therein, as shown in Figure 3e. The inner container 320 may be pushed down into the outer sleeve 310 until arrival to the configuration or first position shown in Figure 3b.

[0399] To prevent or restrict further downward sliding movement of the inner container 320 beyond the bottom, open end 5 of the outer sleeve 310, the outer sleeve 310 and the first portion 320a are configured to engage with each other. As shown in Figure 3f, the outer sleeve 310 comprises at least one lower folded flap 314 defining an engagement edge 319 configured to engage with an edge of the first portion 320a of the inner container 320. The outer sleeve 310 may comprise four lower folded flaps in total (other three not shown), one per sidewall of the outer sleeve 310, where all four folded flaps 314 are arranged to engage with the bottom portion of the first portion 320a of the inner container 320.

[0400] As shown in Figures 3g and 3h, the container 300 can further comprise a removeable cover 370, each respectively closing the upper, open end 7 of the outer sleeve. The cover 370 is removeable from the outer sleeve 310 so as to reveal the open end 7 of the outer sleeve 310. The cover 70 may be tearable. The removeable cover 370 can prevent inadvertent sliding of the inner container 320 and also provides a means of tamper-evident closure for the container 300.

[0401] Additionally, the container 300 can further comprise a locking mechanism, as shown in Figures 4a and 4b. The outer sleeve 310 and the inner container 320 are configured to engage each other such that the inner container 320 is retained within the outer sleeve 310 in a first position in which the inner container 320 is disposed entirely within the outer sleeve 310. The outer sleeve 310 comprises a first engaging element 381 and the inner container 320 comprises a second engaging element 380. The second engaging element 380 is configured to engage with the first engaging element 381 to form a locking mechanism for preventing the inner container 320 from sliding with respect to the outer sleeve 310. The second engaging element 380 comprises a protruding element and the first engaging element 381 comprises a corresponding aperture in the outer sleeve 310. Such an aperture is a cutout in the outer sleeve 310. The locking mechanism may prevent inadvertent sliding of the inner container 320 within the outer sleeve 310. A user may disengage the locking mechanism by disengaging the second engaging element 380 from the first engaging element 381. A user may disengage the locking mechanism by pressing down on the second engaging element 380 so as to disengage it from the first engaging element 381 while also pushing on one end of the inner container 320 through an open end of the outer sleeve 310.

[0402] The container 300 depicted in Figure 4a has a removeable cover 370. However, the container 300 may comprise the locking mechanism without comprising a removeable cover 370. As shown in Figure 4b, once the cover 370 is removed or torn off, the inner container 320 can be lifted from the outer sleeve 310 after disengaging the locking mechanism.

[0403] Figures 5a and 5b respectively illustrate left and right sides of another embodiment of a drawer-like container 500 arrangement, while Figure 5c shows an exploded view of the container 500. The container 500 comprises an outer sleeve 510 comprising opposing, first and second open ends 5, 7. The container 500 comprises an inner container or drawer 520 disposed within the outer sleeve P / 90409.W001

[0404] - 41 -

[0405] 510. The inner container or drawer 520 is slideable within and along the outer sleeve 510 and contains or holds a plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles 30. The inner container 520 comprises a compartment 526 for holding the plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles 30. The compartment 526 is configured to receive at least one row of transversely arranged aerosol-generating articles 30, where the articles are oriented in a direction transverse to a longitudinal direction defined along the outer sleeve and extending between its open ends.

[0406] As shown in Figure 5a and 5b, the inner container 520 can slide in two directions, towards either one of the open ends 5, 7, along and within the outer sleeve 510 in order to provide a user with access to a planar aerosol-generating article 30 held in the compartment 526. The inner container 520 comprises an end cover panel 575a, 575b at each end of the inner container 520. The end cover panels 575a, 575b can protect the planar aerosol-generating articles 30 held in the container 500 and restrict access to the compartment 526 when the inner container 520 is entirely received within the outer sleeve 510.

[0407] As shown in Figure 5c, the container 500 also comprises an insert 560 received within the inner container 520. The insert 560 divides the compartment 526 into a plurality of sub-compartments 526a. the insert 560 may comprise one or two insert components. As shown in Figure 5c, the insert 60 comprises two insert components 560a, 560b made of cardboard and define three subcompartments within the inner container 520. The insert 560 comprises two divider walls 561 , which effectively divide the compartment 526 into sub-compartments 526a. A first sub-compartment 526a is defined between one end of the inner container and one of the divider walls, a second subcompartment 526b is defined between both divider walls, and a third sub-compartment 526c is defined between the other end of the inner container and the other divider wall. Each sub-compartment 526a, 526b, 526c can receive a plurality of aerosol-generating articles 30. The insert 60 effectively divides the entire plurality of aerosol-generating articles 30 received within the container 500 into several bundles.

[0408] Figure 5d illustrates that the length of each sub-compartment 526a, 526b, 526c is configured to be less than the length of a planar aerosol-generating article 30 received therein. This prevents an article 30 from falling into the base of the sub-compartment 526a, 526b, 526c, which can make it more difficult for a user to extract the last available aerosol-generating article 30 stored in the subcompartment 526a, 526b, 526c therefrom.

[0409] As illustrated in Figures 5e and 5f, the container 500 can also comprise two removeable covers 570, each respectively closing an open end of the outer sleeve 510. Each of the covers 570 are removeable from the outer sleeve 510 so as to reveal an open end of the outer sleeve and an end of the inner container 520. Each cover 570 may be tearable. The removeable covers 570 can prevent inadvertent sliding of the inner container or drawer 520 and also provide a means of tamper-evident closure for the container 500.

[0410] Figure 6 shows an alternative inner container 620 that can be used in container 500. The inner container 620 is therefore configured to be used with outer sleeve 510. The inner container 620 comprises two longitudinal compartments 626a, 626b, extending from one end of the inner container to the other. The inner container 620 comprises a central dividing wall 622 extending longitudinally from one end of the inner container to the other. The provision of such a dividing wall 622 effectively defines the two compartments 626a, 626b of the inner container 620. As shown in Figure 6, a plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles 30 are received or held in the inner container 620 with their major faces facing a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the inner container 620. In other words, the articles 30 face a direction perpendicular to the dividing wall 622.

[0411] Figures 7a to 7d show an alternative outer sleeve 710 and an alternative inner container 720 configured to form a container in the same manner as container 500, as described above and shown in previous figures. The outer sleeve 710 comprises a first restricting element 712 configured to engage the inner container 720. The inner container 720 comprises a second restricting element 722 configured to engage the first restricting element 712 so as to prevent or restrict exit of the inner container 720 from the outer sleeve 710.

[0412] As shown in Figure 7a, the first restricting element 712 is located proximate an open end 5 of the outer sleeve 710. The first restricting element 712 is in the form of a tab or flap element extending into the interior of the outer sleeve 710 from the bottom of the outer sleeve 710.

[0413] As shown in Figures 7c and 7d, the second restricting element 722 is located proximate an end of the inner container 720. The second restricting element 722 is in the form of a flap or tab element extending from the underside of the inner container 720.

[0414] Similar to the container 500 described above, the inner container 720 is configured to slide bidirectionally within the outer sleeve 710. When the inner container 720 is entirely received within the outer sleeve 710, both first and second restricting elements 712, 722 are located at opposite ends of the assembled container. When a user slides the inner container 720 out of the outer sleeve 710 via the open end 5, proximate to which the first restricting element 712 is located, the first and second restricting elements 712, 722 are configured to engage each other so as to hinder or prevent the complete exit or withdrawal of the inner container 720 from the outer sleeve 710 via the open end 5.

[0415] As shown in Figure 7d, the inner container 720 can further comprise an end cover panel 775a, 775b at each end of the inner container 720, equivalent to those described in the context of container 500. As shown in Figure 7c, the outer sleeve 710 can further comprise a blocking element 714 at an opposite end to the first restricting element 712. The blocking element 714 is located proximate to the open end 7 of the outer sleeve 710. The blocking element 714 extends into the interior of the outer sleeve 710. The blocking element 714 extends from a top interior surface of the outer sleeve 710. The blocking element 714 is configured to block movement of the inner container 720 in one direction. In this case, the blocking element 714 blocks movement of the inner container 720 towards and out of the open end 7. An end cover panel 775a proximate to the blocking element 714 engages with the blocking element 714. The blocking element 714 effectively blocks the inner container 720 from exiting the outer sleeve 710, by blocking the end cover panel 775a.

[0416] Figures 8a and 8b show an alternative outer sleeve 810 and an alternative inner container 820 configured to form a container in the same manner as container 500, as described above and shown in previous figures. The outer sleeve 810 comprises two first restricting elements 812 configured to engage the inner container 820. The first restricting elements 812 of the outer sleeve 810 are each located proximate a corresponding open end 5, 7 of the outer sleeve 810. Only one first restricting element 812 is shown in Figure 8a at one end of the outer sleeve 810. Another restricting element (not shown) is located at the other end of the outer sleeve 810.

[0417] As shown in Figure 8b, the inner container 820 comprises an end cover panel 875a, 875b at each end of the inner container 820, equivalent to those described in the context of container 500. The inner container 820 comprises a second restricting element 822 located in a middle portion of the inner container 820, at a position between the end cover panels 875a, 875b.

[0418] In the embodiment shown in Figure 8b, the second restricting element 822 is located closer to one end of the inner container 820 than the other. For example, the second restricting element 822 is located at a position about 60 percent of the length of the inner container 820 away from one end of the inner container 820. This effectively means that the second restricting element 822 is located at a position about 40 percent of the length of the inner container 820 away from the other end of the inner container 820.

[0419] Each first restricting element 812 is in the form of a tab or flap element extending into the interior of the outer sleeve 810 from the top of the outer sleeve 810.

[0420] The second restricting element 822 is in the form of a vertical wall extending from the bottom of the inner container 820. The second restricting element 822 is configured to engage with each of the first restricting elements 812 so as to restrict sliding of the inner container 820 in either direction. Owing to the off-centre position of the second restricting element 822 relative to the inner container 822, engagement between the second restricting element 822 with one of the first restricting elements 812 ensures that no more than 60 percent of the length of inner container 820 is extracted from the outer sleeve 810 in a first direction and engagement between the second restricting element 822 with the other first restricting element 812 ensures that no more than 40 percent of the length of inner container 820 is extracted from the outer sleeve 810 in the opposite direction.

[0421] The planar aerosol-generating articles 30 in all container embodiments described and illustrated herein are the same. The thickness of each planar aerosol-generating article 30 is less than 50 percent of both the length and the width of the planar aerosol-generating article 30. Each planar aerosol-generating article 30 has a quadrilaterally-faced hexahedron shape, preferably generally rectangular cuboid shape. Each aerosol-generating article 30 may a length of 30 millimetres, a width of 10 millimetres, and a thickness of 3.1 millimetres. Each aerosol-generating article 30 comprises a laminated structure formed by a first planar external layer, a frame and a second planar external layer.

[0422] The specific embodiments and examples described above illustrate, but do not limit, the invention. It is to be understood that other embodiments of the invention may be made and the specific embodiments and examples described herein are not exhaustive.

[0423] For the purpose of the present description and of the appended claims, except where otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing amounts, quantities, percentages, and so forth, are to be understood as being modified in all instances by the term "about". In this context, therefore, a number A is understood as A ± 10 percent of A. Within this context, a number A may be considered to include numerical values that are within general standard error for the measurement of the property that the number A modifies. The number A, in some instances as used in the appended claims, may deviate by the percentages enumerated above provided that the amount by which A deviates does not P / 90409.W001 materially affect the basic and novel characteristic(s) of the claimed invention. Also, all ranges include the maximum and minimum points disclosed and include any intermediate ranges therein, which may or may not be specifically enumerated herein.

Claims

- 45 -Claims1 . A container of planar aerosol-generating articles, the container comprising: an outer sleeve comprising opposing, first and second open ends; an inner container disposed within the outer sleeve, wherein the inner container is slideable along the outer sleeve and comprises first and second portions hingedly connected to each other, the first portion comprising a first compartment and the second portion comprising a second compartment, wherein the first and second compartments are for holding the plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles; and a plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles held in the compartments of the inner container; wherein the inner container is slidable with respect to the outer sleeve between a first position, in which both first and second compartments are disposed entirely within the outer sleeve, and a second position, in which at least a portion of the interior of one of the first and second compartments is accessible outside of the outer sleeve and one of the first and second portions of the inner container is pivotable with respect to the other of the first and second portions of the inner container.

2. A container according to claim 1 , wherein, in the second position, one of the first and second compartments of the inner container is located completely outside of the outer sleeve, preferably wherein, in the second position, the first compartment of the inner container is located completely outside of the outer sleeve.

3. A container according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, in the second position, at least a portion of one of the first and second portions of the inner container that is not located completely outside of the outer sleeve is located within the outer sleeve.

4. A container according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the inner container is slidable with respect to the outer sleeve between the first position, the second position, and a third position; wherein, in the second position, at least a portion of the interior of the first compartment is accessible outside of the outer sleeve and the first portion of the inner container is pivotable with respect to the second portion of the inner container; wherein, in the third position, at least a portion of the interior of the second compartment is accessible outside of the outer sleeve and the second portion of the inner container is pivotable with respect to the first portion of the inner container.

5. A container according to claim 4, wherein, in the third position, the second compartment of the inner container is located completely outside of the outer sleeve.

6. A container according to claim 4 or 5, wherein, in the second position, at least a portion of the first portion of the inner container is located within the outer sleeve.- 46 -7. A container according to one of claims 4 to 6, wherein, in the third position, at least a portion of the second portion of the inner container is located within the outer sleeve.

8. A container according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, in the first position, the first portion of the inner container is not be pivotable with respect to the second portion of the inner container.

9. A container according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each compartment comprises an open top end, preferably wherein the open top ends of the first and second compartments face each other in the first position of the inner container.

10. A container according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each of the first and second portions of the inner container comprises opposing side walls, opposing front and rear walls, and a bottom wall, all of which define each of the first and second compartments.

11. A container according to claim 10, wherein each front wall is shorter than its opposing rear wall such that top portions of the aerosol-generating articles held in the compartments are exposed.

12. A container according to claim 10 or 11 , wherein the bottom walls of each of the first and second portions of the inner container define opposing, closed ends of the inner container.

13. A container according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising two removeable covers, each respectively closing an open end of the outer sleeve.

14. A container according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the thickness of each planar aerosol-generating article is less than 50 percent of both the length and the width of the planar aerosol-generating article.

15. A container according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each planar aerosolgenerating article has a quadrilaterally-faced hexahedron shape.

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