Container with locking mechanism having an outer sleeve and an inner disc

Abstract

A container (1) for consumer goods, the container comprising an outer sleeve (20) and an inner tray (10), the inner tray being disposed within the outer sleeve (20) and configured to slide within the outer sleeve (20) between: a first position in which a user cannot access an interior of the inner tray (10); and a second position in which a user can access the interior of the inner tray (10). The container (1) has a locking mechanism for preventing the inner tray (10) from sliding from the first position to the second position relative to the outer sleeve when the inner tray (10) is in the first position in the outer sleeve (20).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a container for consumer products. The container according to the invention has particular applications as a container for aerosol-generating articles or components thereof. Background Technology

[0002] It is known to package consumer products in containers, which include a shell or sleeve and an inner disc that contains the consumer product and can slide within the shell. To remove the consumer product from this container, the user slides the inner disc from an initial position within the shell to an open position where the inner disc protrudes outward from the shell, thus partially exposing the open end or side of the inner disc. Such containers may be referred to as sliding or shell containers.

[0003] It may be desirable to ensure that the inner slider or inner disc remains closed within the casing until the user intends to access the consumer product. For example, it may be desirable to ensure that the inner disc remains in the closed position while the container is being transported. Ensuring it is closed helps prevent the consumer product from accidentally falling out of the container. Preventing the container from accidentally opening helps maintain one or more properties of the consumer product, such as its freshness. Summary of the Invention

[0004] It is desirable to provide a novel and improved container for consumer products, configured to reduce the risk of the inner disc accidentally moving from a closed position to an open position. Furthermore, it is desirable to provide one or more laminated preforms for forming such an improved container, wherein the manufacturing process is simple and cost-effective.

[0005] According to this disclosure, a container for a consumer product is provided. The container includes an outer sleeve. The outer sleeve includes a top wall, a bottom wall, a first side wall, and an opposing second side wall, as well as a first open end. The container includes an inner disc disposed within the outer sleeve. The inner disc includes a recessed base having an interior for receiving the consumer product. The container includes a cover member. The cover member includes a first portion covering the recessed base of the inner disc and a second portion extending beyond the recessed base. The second portion of the cover member is attached to the outer sleeve. The inner disc is slidable relative to the outer sleeve between: a first position, wherein the cover member and the recessed base form a cover for the consumer product; and a second position, wherein the interior of the recessed base is accessible to a user. Sliding the inner disc from the first position to the second position involves at least a portion of the inner disc passing through the first open end of the outer sleeve. Sliding the inner disc from the first position to the second position also involves at least a portion of the cover member peeling off from the recessed base to expose the interior of the inner disc. The inner disc further includes an inner disc engaging flap. When the inner disc is in the first position in the outer sleeve, the edge of the inner disc engaging flap is configured to engage with a corresponding engaging element on the outer sleeve wall to form a locking mechanism to prevent the inner disc from sliding from the first position to the second position.

[0006] As discussed in more detail below, in some embodiments, the engaging element on the outer sleeve wall is formed by a retaining panel that is connected to the outer sleeve wall at a first open end of the top wall of the outer sleeve by a fold line and folded around the fold line such that the retaining panel is positioned below the top wall of the outer sleeve, and a second portion of the cover member is secured to the retaining panel.

[0007] The inner disc engaging flap and the corresponding engaging element form at least part of a locking mechanism for the container. By providing such a locking mechanism, the container can be held in a locked state, in which the interior of the inner disc cannot be accessed. This means the container can be locked when not in use. Therefore, the locking mechanism helps reduce the risk of accidental opening of the container. This helps prevent consumer products from accidentally falling out of the container. This helps protect one or more properties of the consumer product, such as its freshness.

[0008] By providing a container according to the invention, at least a portion of the locking mechanism can be concealed within the appearance of the container. This means the locking mechanism is not readily visible. This helps reduce the risk of accidental unlocking of the container. More precisely, because the inner disc engaging flap is configured to engage with engaging elements on the inner surface of the outer sleeve wall, the inner disc engaging flap can cover the outer sleeve wall and is therefore at least partially concealed.

[0009] This can also help to ensure that most of the outer surface of the container is largely uninterrupted and smooth. This can be advantageous in one or both of the container's transportation and manufacturing processes. It can also be advantageous when printing the continuous outer surface of the container.

[0010] Choosing to use such a locking mechanism in containers with an inner disc that can slide relative to the outer sleeve can be particularly advantageous in reducing the risk of accidental opening of the container. This is because the action required to release the locking mechanism may differ from the sliding action required to move the inner disc relative to the outer sleeve. For example, a pressing action may be required to release the locking mechanism, while a sliding action may be required to move the inner disc relative to the outer sleeve. The need for such different and dissimilar actions may make the container even less likely to be accidentally opened.

[0011] Choosing to use this locking mechanism in a container having a sliding inner disc and a cover member covering the sliding inner disc may be particularly advantageous. Specifically, the cover member and inner disc of the present invention are arranged such that as the inner disc slides from a first position to a second position, the cover member simultaneously peels off from the inner disc. This means that as the inner disc moves out of the outer sleeve, the cover member simultaneously peels off from the inner disc to reveal the interior of the inner disc to the user. Furthermore, as the inner disc moves back into the outer sleeve, the cover member moves back over the inner disc to cover the inner disc and form a seal for the consumer product. The inner disc can then be held in a locked position, where the consumer product is securely sealed within the inner disc. This can help to better protect the consumer product. In some embodiments, when the inner disc is in the first position, the cover member and the inner disc can form a sealed seal for the consumer product. The sealed seal can be provided by using a resealable adhesive between the cover member and the inner disc. For example, when the inner disc includes a flange, as discussed in more detail below, the flange can be provided with a resealable adhesive for repeated sealing and unsealing of the cover member and the inner disc.

[0012] The edge of the inner disc engaging flap, configured to engage with a corresponding engaging element on the outer sleeve wall, is preferably the free edge of the inner disc engaging flap. The free edge of the flap is the edge from which the flap is not directly connected to the object from which it hangs.

[0013] The free edge of the inner disc engaging tab is preferably the leading edge of the inner disc engaging tab. That is, the free edge of each inner disc engaging tab configured to engage with the corresponding engaging element on the outer sleeve wall is preferably positioned relative to the edge of the inner disc engaging tab that connects the inner disc engaging tab to the remainder of the inner disc.

[0014] The inner disc is configured to slide relative to the outer sleeve. Therefore, the outer sleeve can have an interior configured to receive the inner disc. The outer sleeve may include a second end positioned opposite a first open end. The second end of the outer sleeve may include a rear wall of the outer sleeve. Thus, the outer sleeve may have a first open end and a second end including a rear wall of the outer sleeve, wherein a top wall, a bottom wall, a first side wall, and an opposing second side wall of the outer sleeve extend between the first open end and the rear wall of the outer sleeve.

[0015] The inner disc is movable relative to the outer sleeve between a first position and a second position. In the first position, the cover member and the recessed base form a sealed enclosure for the consumer product. This means that in the first position, the user cannot access the interior of the recessed base.

[0016] In the second position, the user can access the interior of the recessed base. In the second position, the cover has been detached from the recessed base to expose the interior of the inner disc.

[0017] The first position can be considered the closed position. The second position can be considered the open position. When the inner panel is in the second position, the user can directly access the interior of the inner panel.

[0018] Moving the inner disc from the first position to the second position involves at least a portion of the inner disc passing through the first open end of the outer sleeve. Specifically, as the inner disc moves from the first position to the second position, at least a portion of the inner disc is configured to slide through the first open end of the outer sleeve and thus at least partially exit the outer sleeve. When the inner disc is in the second position, this can help improve the convenience of accessing any consumer product held by the inner disc.

[0019] The outer sleeve and inner disc can be configured such that when the inner disc is in the first position, most or all of the inner disc is closed by the outer sleeve. This helps to minimize the amount of surface area of ​​the inner disc that the user can access when the inner disc is in the first position. This helps to minimize accidental opening of the container.

[0020] The inner plate may include a front wall, a rear wall, a first side wall, a second side wall, and a bottom wall. The front wall, rear wall, first side wall, second side wall, and bottom wall together define a recessed base for the inner plate.

[0021] When the inner disc includes such walls, preferably, the outer sleeve and the inner disc are configured such that, when the inner disc is in the first position, at least one of the inner disc bottom wall and the first inner disc side wall and the opposing second inner disc side wall completely covers its corresponding outer sleeve bottom wall and the first outer sleeve side wall and the opposing second outer sleeve side wall. In such embodiments, when the inner disc is in the first position, at least one of the inner disc bottom wall and the first inner disc side wall and the opposing second inner disc side wall will be invisible to the user. This can help reduce the risk of accidental opening of the container. This can also help increase the amount of uninterrupted surface area available for communication with the user at the top, bottom, and one or more of the first and second sides of the container when the inner disc is in the first position.

[0022] The covering member preferably has the form of a flexible sheet material. The covering member can be a single-layer sheet or a multi-layer sheet. The covering member can be a foil or include foil layers.

[0023] When the inner tray includes a rear wall, an inner tray engaging tab can hang from the rear wall and is configured to cover the overlying member. The inner tray engaging tab can extend from the rear of the inner tray toward the front and cover at least the rear portion of the overlying member. This advantageously means that the locking mechanism engages only when the rear of the inner tray has reached the rear of the outer sleeve. This helps ensure efficient use of storage space. When the inner tray is in the first position, the rear wall of the inner tray can be positioned adjacent to the rear wall of the outer sleeve.

[0024] Preferably, the inner disc further includes a flange extending along the upper edge of the recessed base. When the inner disc is in a first position within the outer sleeve, a first portion of the cover member may cover only the recessed base. Preferably, when the inner disc is in a first position within the outer sleeve, a first portion of the cover member covers both the recessed base and the flange. This provides an efficient arrangement for enclosing the consumer product within the inner disc. In some embodiments, the flange can provide an efficient means of forming a sealing shell for the consumer product within the inner disc, as it provides a flat surface on which the cover member can be sealed. For example, a resealable adhesive may be provided on the flange of the inner disc, such that the cover member can be repeatedly sealed to and peeled off from the inner disc during user-operated closing and opening of the container.

[0025] From a manufacturing perspective, it may be advantageous to arrange the first portion of the cover member over both the recessed base and the flange. For example, during manufacturing, a single initial material web can be applied to multiple interconnected recessed bases, which are then cut to form one or more recessed bases. This reduces the need for precise alignment between the cover member and the recessed base.

[0026] The flange may extend only along a portion of the upper edge of the recessed base. Preferably, the flange extends along at least two sides of the upper edge of the recessed base, more preferably, the flange extends along at least three sides of the upper edge of the recessed base, and even more preferably, the flange extends along all four sides of the upper edge of the recessed base.

[0027] The flange can be integrally formed with the recessed base. One or both of the flange and the recessed base can be formed from molded plastic. The flange can be a separate piece, for example, attached to the recessed base by means of an adhesive.

[0028] The recessed base can be formed from any suitable material or combination of materials. Preferably, the recessed base is formed from a plastic material.

[0029] The outer sleeve and inner plate can be arranged such that when the inner plate is in the first position, the recessed base is completely housed within the outer sleeve. This helps protect the inner plate when the consumer does not intend to approach the product.

[0030] In some embodiments, when the inner disc is in a first position, a portion of the inner disc is located outside the outer sleeve. More specifically, in some embodiments, the inner disc further includes a pull tab that extends through a first open end of the outer sleeve when the inner disc is in the first position within the outer sleeve. The pull tab can provide means for a user to grip the inner disc and slide it from the first position to a second position. Thus, it is possible to advantageously ensure that, when the inner disc is in the first position, a portion of the inner disc can still be gripped by the user, even though most of the inner disc is covered by the outer sleeve. This provides a balance between securing the inner disc in a locked state and assisting the user in sliding the inner disc away from the outer sleeve when intending to access any consumer product within the inner disc. The pull tab can extend from a recessed base. In cases where the inner disc includes a flange extending along the upper edge of the recessed base, the pull tab can extend from the flange. The pull tab can be integrally formed with the flange.

[0031] In the following description of the invention, the terms "side," "top," "bottom," "front," "rear," and other terms used to describe the relative positions of components of a container according to the invention refer to the container in an upright position, with the recessed base facing upwards. These terms are used when describing a container according to the invention, regardless of the orientation of the container being described. The "bottom" of the container refers to the side of the container opposite to the "top" of the container.

[0032] The term "height" is used in this document to refer to the dimension extending between the top and bottom. The term "width" is used in this document to refer to the dimension extending between the sides. The term "depth" is used in this document to refer to the dimension extending between the front and back. Height, width, and depth are orthogonal to each other.

[0033] This article uses the term "panel" to refer to a portion of a container formed by a single, continuous section of material. A panel may overhang from one or more other panels.

[0034] The term “wall” more generally refers to a small facet of a container, and a wall may be formed by a single panel or flap, or by two or more adjacent or overlapping panels or flaps.

[0035] The term "sag" is used herein to describe the physical connection between two elements of a container according to the invention. More specifically, the term "sag" is used to indicate a material continuity between two elements (e.g., two walls or panels of a container or blank). This includes both cases where a wall or panel hangs directly from an adjacent wall or panel, and cases where an intermediate wall or panel effectively connects two walls or panels.

[0036] For example, a sidewall or panel may hang directly from an adjacent front wall or panel. In this case, the wall or panel typically hangs from the adjacent wall along a fold line. Alternatively, particularly in containers with curved or beveled edges, a sidewall or panel may hang indirectly from the front wall or panel. In this case, a curved or sloping edge wall or panel connects the sidewall or panel to the front wall or panel. In the case of sloping edges, both the sidewall or panel and the front wall or panel may hang from the connected sloping edge wall or panel along their respective fold lines. This also applies to optional components of containers according to the invention, such as reinforcing members arranged in the form of an internal frame.

[0037] Throughout this specification, the term "inner surface" refers to the surface of a component of the container facing inwards (e.g., towards the consumer product) when the assembled container is in the closed position. Throughout this specification, the term "outer surface" refers to the surface of a component of the container facing outwards. For example, the front wall of a package has an inner surface facing inwards towards the inside of the package and the consumer product, and an outer surface facing away from the consumer product. It should be noted that an inner or outer surface is not necessarily equivalent to a particular side of the blank used in assembling the container. Depending on how the blank is folded around the consumer product, an area on the same side of the blank may face inwards or outwards towards the container.

[0038] The term "fold line" is used to describe any line around which a blank is folded. A fold line may be defined by a weakening line to facilitate the folding action. Alternatively, a crease may be formed without a weakening line, depending on factors such as the blank's flexibility and other material properties.

[0039] When the locking mechanism of the container is engaged, it prevents the inner disc from sliding relative to the outer sleeve from a first position to a second position. Disengagement of the locking mechanism allows the inner disc to slide relative to the outer sleeve from the first position to the second position. Therefore, the container can be configured such that the inner disc engaging tab disengages from its corresponding engaging element on the outer sleeve wall, allowing the inner disc to slide relative to the outer sleeve from the first position to the second position.

[0040] The outer sleeve with engagement elements may have a release element on its wall for disengaging the edge of the inner disc engagement flap from the engagement element. The release element may be configured to allow the locking mechanism to transition from a locked to an unlocked state in response to pressure applied by a user to the container. Specifically, the release element is configured to allow the user to interact with the locking mechanism to cause it to transition to an unlocked state. Preferably, when the inner disc is in a first position, at least a portion of the inner disc engagement flap is covered by the release element of the outer sleeve.

[0041] In some embodiments, the release element may include a cutout in the wall of the outer sleeve having an engagement element. When the inner disc is in a first position, the cutout may be located adjacent to a portion of the inner disc engagement flap. In such embodiments, the cutout allows the user direct access to the inner disc engagement flap and disengages the inner disc engagement flap from the corresponding engagement element on the outer sleeve wall. Specifically, the user can insert their finger through the cutout and push the inner disc engagement flap away from the engagement element on the inner surface of the outer sleeve sidewall to unlock the locking mechanism.

[0042] In some embodiments, the release element includes a release tab formed by at least one cut line in the outer sleeve wall having an engagement element. For example, the outer sleeve wall may include a cut that defines at least a portion of the periphery of the release tab in the wall. The cut may be a U-shaped cut. The cut may be an arcuate cut. The release tab may deflect relative to the rest of its outer sleeve wall. This allows the release tab to move independently of its outer sleeve wall in response to pressure from the user. When the inner disc is in a first position, the release tab may be positioned adjacent to a portion of its corresponding inner disc engagement flap. Thus, in use, the user can press the release tab to translate force onto the inner disc engagement flap, causing the inner disc engagement flap to disengage from the engagement element of the outer sleeve wall.

[0043] By providing a release element in the form of a release tab, the device for unlocking the locking mechanism can be incorporated into the container with minimal visual impact. Therefore, the device for unlocking the container may not be readily visible. This helps reduce the risk of accidentally opening the container.

[0044] As described above, the inner surface of the outer sleeve wall includes engaging elements for engaging with the edges of each inner sleeve side flap when the inner sleeve is in a first position within the outer sleeve. The engaging elements provide a barrier for engaging with the inner sleeve engagement flaps. Specifically, the barrier may provide engaging edges configured to abut the edges of the inner sleeve engagement flaps when the inner sleeve is in the first position within the outer sleeve. The engaging elements may be integrally formed with their corresponding outer sleeve wall. For example, the outer sleeve wall may be manufactured with a raised portion having increased thickness to provide the engaging elements on the inner surface of the outer sleeve wall. Alternatively, the engaging elements may include elements attached to the inner surface of the outer sleeve wall. These elements may include strips of material extending across the inner surface of the outer sleeve wall.

[0045] The connecting element may be formed from a panel that is fixed to a portion of the inner surface of the outer sleeve wall. The panel may be connected to its corresponding outer sleeve wall by a fold line and folded approximately 180 degrees around the fold line relative to its corresponding outer sleeve wall.

[0046] The wall of the outer sleeve with the connecting element can be the top wall of the outer sleeve.

[0047] The wall of the outer sleeve with the engaging element may be formed by a first panel and a second panel covering the first panel. In some embodiments, the wall is the top wall of the outer sleeve. The first panel may define an inner surface of the wall. The second panel may define an outer surface of the wall. Thus, the engaging element may be positioned on the first panel, and more specifically, on the inner surface of the first panel. The engaging element may be in the form of a panel having edges configured to abut an engaging tab of an inner disc. This panel may be referred to as an engaging panel. The edges may be provided by the outer edge of the engaging panel. Alternatively, the edges may be provided by cutouts in the engaging panel.

[0048] In cases where the container includes a release tab, the release tab may be formed on the second panel. In some embodiments, the first panel includes a cutout. When the inner disc is in a first position, the cutout allows the release tab to contact the engaging flaps of the inner disc.

[0049] The container may further include a retaining mechanism for preventing the inner disc from sliding completely out of the first open end of the outer sleeve. The retaining mechanism helps prevent the inner disc from separating from the outer sleeve. The retaining mechanism prevents the inner disc from being completely removed from the outer sleeve. The retaining mechanism prevents the inner disc from sliding beyond a second position.

[0050] The retaining mechanism can advantageously provide the user with an indication that the inner disc has reached the second position. More specifically, when the retaining mechanism engages to prevent further slippage of the inner disc, it can provide the user with a tactile indication that the inner disc has reached the second position. This gives the user an indication that the inner disc is in a position where they can approach the consumer product.

[0051] In some embodiments, the retaining mechanism includes an extendable member connecting a portion of the inner disc to a portion of the outer sleeve. The extendable member is configured to change between a retracted state when the inner disc is in a first position and an extended state when the inner disc is in a second position. The extendable member may be provided in the form of a folded panel strip, wherein a first end panel of the strip is secured to a portion of the outer sleeve, and a second opposite end panel of the strip is secured to a portion of the inner disc. For example, the first end panel of the strip may be secured to an inner surface of the outer sleeve wall, such as the bottom wall of the outer sleeve. The second end panel may be secured to an outer surface of the inner disc wall, such as the rear wall of the inner disc. Thus, the extendable member can resemble a hexagonal accordion when changing between its retracted and extended configurations.

[0052] In some embodiments, the retaining mechanism includes a retaining element. The retaining element may be disposed on the inner surface of the outer sleeve wall. The retaining element may be disposed on the inner surface of the outer sleeve wall, which includes an engaging element. The retaining element may include a retaining edge. When the inner disc is in the second position, the retaining edge provides a barrier for engaging with the inner disc engaging tab. More specifically, when the inner disc reaches the second position, the retaining edge on the inner surface of the outer sleeve wall can engage with the inner disc engaging tab to prevent the inner disc from sliding completely out of the first open end of the outer sleeve.

[0053] The retaining element can be integrally formed with its corresponding outer sleeve sidewall. For example, the outer sleeve sidewall can be manufactured with a raised portion having increased thickness to provide a retaining edge for the retaining element on the inner surface of the outer sleeve sidewall. Alternatively or additionally, the retaining element can be attached to the inner surface of the outer sleeve wall. The retaining element may include a strip of material extending across a portion of the inner surface of the outer sleeve wall. The material may be in the form of a panel fixed to a portion of the inner surface of the outer sleeve wall.

[0054] In some embodiments, the retaining element is formed of a panel connected to the outer sleeve wall via a fold line. This panel may be referred to as a retaining panel. The retaining panel can be folded approximately 180 degrees relative to its corresponding outer sleeve wall around the fold line. The fold line may be located at the first open end of the outer sleeve.

[0055] In some embodiments, the panel is held to hang from a fold line forming the edge of the top wall of the outer sleeve, the edge being positioned near a first open end of the outer sleeve opening.

[0056] The retaining panel can be folded around the fold line and positioned below the top wall of the outer sleeve. The retaining panel can be folded approximately 180 degrees around the fold line and positioned below the top wall of the outer sleeve. In some embodiments, the retaining panel can face inwards towards the outer sleeve and thus protrude towards the inner disc. This is particularly relevant when no adhesive is provided between the retaining panel and the top wall of the outer sleeve for flush attachment of the retaining panel to the inner surface of the top wall of the outer sleeve. This may also be particularly relevant when the retaining panel is formed of a naturally resilient material such as cardboard or wainscoting. In such embodiments, as the inner disc slides from a first position to a second position, the engaging flaps of the inner disc can slide into the gap between the retaining panel and the top wall of the outer sleeve to prevent the inner disc from sliding completely out of the first open end of the outer sleeve.

[0057] A retaining element having one or more of the above features can provide many advantages. For example, the retaining element can be easily manufactured, especially if the retaining element hangs from an existing wall of the outer sleeve.

[0058] The cover member includes a second portion attached to the outer sleeve. The second portion of the cover member may be attached to the wall of the outer sleeve having engaging elements. The second portion of the cover member may be attached to the top wall of the outer sleeve. The second portion of the cover member may be attached to the inner surface of the top wall of the outer sleeve.

[0059] In cases where the outer sleeve includes a retaining panel connected to the outer sleeve wall by a folded line, a second portion of the cover member can be attached to the retaining panel. This can be particularly advantageous for ensuring engagement of the retaining panel with the engaging flap of the inner sleeve when the inner sleeve moves toward the second position. Specifically, as the inner sleeve moves toward the second position, the cover member can pull the retaining panel away from its outer sleeve wall, creating a space between the retaining panel and the outer sleeve wall (from which the retaining panel hangs). Then, as the inner sleeve reaches the second position, the engaging flap can extend into this space, thereby engaging with the retaining panel.

[0060] The cover member may include an inner surface and an outer surface. When the inner disc is in a first position, the inner surface of a first portion of the cover member may face the interior of the recessed base. The inner surface of a second portion of the cover member may be attached to the surface of the outer sleeve. For example, when the outer sleeve includes a retaining panel connected to the outer sleeve wall via a fold line, the inner surface of the second portion of the cover member may be attached to the surface of the retaining panel.

[0061] It may be advantageous to provide a cover member in which the inner surface of a first portion of the cover member faces the interior of the recessed base when the inner disc is in a first position, and the inner surface of a second portion of the cover member is attached to the surface of the outer sleeve. Specifically, in this arrangement, a bend can be created in the cover member. As the inner disc moves from the first position to the second position, the bend can facilitate the peeling of the first portion of the cover member from the inner disc. When the inner disc is in the first position, the bend can be located at the interface between the first and second portions of the cover member. That is, the first portion of the cover member can completely cover the inner disc and then bend away from the inner disc in the area where the first portion abuts the second portion of the cover member. When the inner disc is in the first position, the bend in the cover member can be approximately 180 degrees.

[0062] In some embodiments, a second portion of the cover member is attached to a portion of the outer sleeve located adjacent to the first open end of the outer sleeve.

[0063] A first portion of the cover member may be permanently attached to a portion of the inner disc. Alternatively, the first portion of the cover member may be permanently attached to a rear portion of the inner disc. For example, the first portion of the cover member may be permanently attached to the rear wall of the inner disc or a flange extending along the upper edge of the rear wall of the inner disc. This arrangement helps ensure that the cover member cannot be completely removed from the inner disc.

[0064] In one or more containers of this disclosure described above, the inner disc is disposed within the outer sleeve. Thus, such containers are supplied to the user in a fully assembled state with the inner disc disposed within the outer sleeve. However, this disclosure also envisions an arrangement where the inner disc is initially supplied separately from the outer sleeve, and the user inserts the inner disc into the interior of the outer sleeve to form a fully assembled container.

[0065] According to this disclosure, a parts kit is provided, comprising an outer sleeve and an inner disc, the inner disc being configured to be received within the outer sleeve to form a container of this disclosure. The parts kit also includes a cover member. The parts kit may include one or more instructions. The instructions may include instructions on how to insert the inner disc into the outer sleeve to form a fully assembled container. The instructions may include instructions on how to attach a second portion of the cover member to the outer sleeve and how to place a first portion of the cover member on the inner disc. From a manufacturing perspective, providing a container in the form of a parts kit may be advantageous because it means that the step of inserting the inner disc into the outer sleeve can be performed by a user.

[0066] This disclosure also relates to one or more laminated blanks for forming at least one of the outer sleeve and inner disc of the aforementioned container. Therefore, according to some embodiments of this disclosure, a first laminated blank for forming the outer sleeve is provided. A second laminated blank for forming the inner disc may also be provided. The outer sleeve may be formed from a single laminated blank. The inner disc may be formed from a separate single laminated blank.

[0067] As described above, the container according to the invention is preferably formed from one or more folded laminated blanks. The one or more laminated blanks can be formed from any suitable material or combination of materials, including but not limited to cardboard, paperboard, plastic, metal, or combinations thereof. Different parts of the container can be formed from the same material or different materials. Each of the one or more laminated blanks can be a laminated paperboard blank weighing between about 100 g / m² and about 350 g / m². In a preferred embodiment, the blank has a thickness from about 100 micrometers to about 500 micrometers, preferably from about 200 micrometers to about 350 micrometers.

[0068] Preferably, the container is a cuboid, comprising two wider walls (top and bottom) separated by two narrower sidewalls. The container according to the invention can be cuboid in shape, having right-angled longitudinal edges and right-angled transverse edges. The container may include one or more rounded longitudinal edges, rounded transverse edges, sloping longitudinal edges, or sloping transverse edges, or combinations thereof. The shape of the container may be defined by the shape of the outer sleeve.

[0069] The container may include multiple consumer products. Consumer products may be aerosol-generating articles. Aerosol-generating articles may be filter cigarettes or other smoking articles, wherein the aerosol-generating matrix includes tobacco material that is burned to form smoke. Aerosol-generating articles may be articles in which tobacco material is heated rather than burned to form an aerosol. Aerosol-generating articles may be articles in which tobacco material, tobacco extracts, or other nicotine sources generate nicotine-containing aerosols without combustion and, in some cases, without heating (e.g., through a chemical reaction).

[0070] The aerosol-generating article can be provided within the container in the form of a bundle wrapped in an inner package made of metal foil or metallized paper. The inner package material can be a laminate of metallized polyethylene film, along with a lining material. The lining material can be supercalendered cellophane. Additionally, the inner package material may have a printable top coating. The inner package has an access opening through which the aerosol-generating article can be removed when the inner tray is in a second position.

[0071] By appropriately selecting the size, the container according to the invention can be designed to accommodate different total numbers of aerosol-generating articles, or different arrangements of aerosol-generating articles. For example, by appropriately selecting the size, the container according to the invention can be designed to maintain a total number between ten and thirty aerosol-generating articles. Depending on the total number, the aerosol-generating articles can be arranged in different ways. Attached Figure Description

[0072] The invention will now be further described by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0073] Figure 1A A laminated preform for forming an outer sleeve of a container according to a first embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0074] Figure 1B An elevation view of the covering member of a container according to a first embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0075] Figure 1C An elevation view of the inner tray of a container according to a first embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0076] Figure 2 A perspective view of a container in a partially assembled state according to a first embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0077] Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of a container according to a first embodiment of the present invention is shown; and

[0078] Figures 4A to 4C A cross-sectional view of a container with a different construction according to a first embodiment of the present invention is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0079] Figure 1A A laminated preform 100 for forming the outer sleeve of the container 1 according to the invention is shown. For example... Figure 3 , 4A As shown in 4B and 4C, the laminated preform can be used to form the outer sleeve of container 1. Figure 1B An elevation view of the covering member 20 of the container 1 according to a first embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figure 1C An elevation view of the inner tray 30 of the container 1 according to a first embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0080] In the laminated blank 100, dashed lines represent fold lines, while solid lines represent cutting lines. The laminated blank 100 includes a first outer sleeve top wall panel 101a, a second outer sleeve top wall panel 101b, a first outer sleeve bottom wall panel 102a, a second outer sleeve bottom wall panel 102b, a first outer sleeve side wall panel 103 and a second outer sleeve side wall panel 104, a first outer sleeve rear wall panel 105a, a second outer sleeve rear wall panel 105b, and a first outer sleeve reinforcing flap 106 and a second outer sleeve reinforcing flap 107. These panels together form the overall structure of the outer sleeve 10. The assembled outer sleeve 10 includes a first open end 8.

[0081] The laminated preform 100 also includes a joining panel 140, which hangs from the top wall panel 101a of the first outer sleeve via a fold line. When the container is assembled, the joining panel 140 forms a joining element 40 on the inner surface of the top wall of the outer sleeve. The joining panel 140 includes an internal cutout 42 that defines a joining edge 43 within the joining panel 140. The first outer sleeve top wall panel 101a also includes a corresponding cutout 41. Figure 3 , 4A As shown in 4B and 4C, in the assembled container, cutout 41 aligns with cutout 42. See below for reference. Figure 3 , 4A As described in more detail in 4B and 4C, the engagement panel 140 is configured to form part of the locking mechanism in the container 1.

[0082] The first outer sleeve top wall panel 101b includes a portion 170 for defining a release tab 70 on, and more specifically, in, the outer surface of the outer sleeve top wall. This portion is partially defined by an arcuate cut line 171 in the second outer sleeve top wall panel 101b. Reference will be made below. Figure 3 , 4A As described in more detail in 4B and 4C, the release tab 70 is configured to facilitate unlocking the locking mechanism in container 1.

[0083] The laminated preform also includes a retaining panel 180, which hangs from the top wall panel 101a of the first outer sleeve via a fold line 81. When the container is assembled, the retaining panel 180 forms a retaining element 80 on the inner surface of the top wall of the outer sleeve. In the assembled container, the retaining element 80 is pivotable about the fold line 81, which connects the retaining panel 180 to the top wall panel 10a of the first outer sleeve. Reference will be made below. Figure 3 , 4A As described in more detail in 4B and 4C, the retaining element 80 is configured to prevent the inner disc 30 from sliding completely out of the first open end 8 of the outer sleeve 10.

[0084] Figure 1B A cover member 20 of container 1 is shown. Cover member 20 includes a first portion 21 and a second portion 22. A fold line 23 is provided at the interface between the first portion 21 and the second portion 22 of cover member 20. The fold line 23 facilitates the assembly of container 1 (see [reference]). Figure 3 The bend 24 in the covering member 20 of the )

[0085] Figure 1C An elevation view of the inner tray 30 of a container 1 according to a first embodiment of the present invention is shown. The inner tray includes a front wall 38, a rear wall 35, a first side wall 33, and opposing second side walls 34, as well as a bottom wall 32. These walls together define a recessed base of the inner tray 30. The recessed base defines an internal volume 31 for accommodating one or more consumer products 90.

[0086] The inner disk 30 also includes a flange 39 extending along the upper edge of each of the inner disk front wall 38, the inner disk rear wall 35, and the first inner disk side wall 33 and the opposing second inner disk side wall 34. The inner disk also includes a pull tab 36 at the inner disk front wall 38. The pull tab 36 is integrally formed with a portion of the flange 39 extending along the upper edge of the inner disk front wall 38.

[0087] The inner tray also includes a connecting flap 50. The connecting flap 50 is located at the rear of the inner tray 30, and more specifically, at the rear wall 35 of the inner tray. The connecting flap 50 hangs from a fold line 51 on a portion of a flange 39 extending along the upper edge of the rear wall 35 of the inner tray. In the assembled container, the rear portion of the cover member 20 is attached to the flange 39 at the rear of the inner tray 30 by a permanent adhesive 62.

[0088] Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of container 1 is shown when the inner disc 30 is in the first position within the outer sleeve 10. Figures 4A to 4C This shows that as the inner plate 30 moves from the first position (e.g.) Figure 3 and Figure 4A (as shown) transition to the second position (as shown) Figure 4C(As shown) Cross-sectional views of container 1 with different structures.

[0089] In the assembled container 1, a first portion 21 of the cover member 20 is configured to cover the inner disc 30. In the assembled container 1, a second portion 22 of the cover member 20 is attached to the inner surface of the top wall of the outer sleeve. Specifically, the inner surface of the second portion 22 of the cover member 20 is attached to the inner surface of the top wall panel 101a of the first outer sleeve to the retaining panel 180. The second portion 22 of the cover member 20 is attached to the retaining panel 180 by a permanent adhesive 64. Figure 3 As shown, this arrangement creates a bend 24 in the cover member 20. When the inner disc 30 is in the first position within the outer sleeve 10, the first portion 21 of the cover member 20 completely covers the recessed base and flange 39 of the inner disc. This creates a sealing shell within the internal volume of the recessed base for the consumer product 90.

[0090] In this first position, the inner disc 30's engaging flap 50 is covered by the covering member 20 and engages with the engaging edge 43 of the engaging panel 40. This engagement prevents the inner disc from moving toward and through the first open end 8 of the outer sleeve 10. Therefore, in Figure 4A In its construction, the inner plate 30 is locked inside the outer sleeve 10.

[0091] like Figure 4B As shown, to unlock the inner disc 30 from this position, the user must apply pressure to the release tab 70 formed in the top wall of the outer sleeve. This causes the release tab 70 to deflect toward the engagement flap 50 of the inner disc 30. The release tab 70 passes through cutouts 41 and 42 formed in the first outer sleeve top wall panel 101a and the engagement panel 40, respectively. Further deflection of the release tab 70 toward the engagement flap 50 of the inner disc 30 causes the engagement flap 50 to move away from the engagement edge 43 of the engagement panel 40 and disengage from the engagement edge. When the engagement flap 50 is in Figure 4B When in the position shown, the inner disc moves freely toward and through the first open end 8 of the outer sleeve 10.

[0092] Therefore, in this configuration, the user can pull on the inner disc's pull tab 36, causing the inner disc 30 to slide toward and through the first open end 8 of the outer sleeve 10 until the inner disc reaches the second position, as shown. Figure 4C As shown, as the inner disc 30 slides from the first position to the second position, the first portion 21 of the cover member 20 is pulled away from the recessed base of the inner disc 30 to expose the consumer product 90 inside the recessed base 31. This is achieved by permanently attaching the inner surface of the second portion 22 of the cover member 20 to the outer sleeve 10.

[0093] When the inner disc 30 reaches the second position, the engaging flap 50 engages with the retaining element 80 to prevent the inner disc 30 from completely sliding out of the outer sleeve 10. Specifically, as the inner disc 30 moves toward the second position, the second portion 22 of the cover member 20 pulls the retaining element 80 away from the top wall of the outer sleeve. This causes the retaining element 80 to pivot about the fold line 81 and creates a space between the retaining element 80 and the inner surface of the top wall of the outer sleeve. The movement of the inner disc 30 toward the second position also causes the engaging flap 50 to move into this space between the retaining element 80 and the inner surface of the top wall of the outer sleeve. The engaging flap 50 and the retaining element 80 thus engage with each other to prevent the inner disc 30 from completely sliding out of the outer sleeve 10.

[0094] When the user has finished approaching the consumer product 90 inside the recessed base 31, the user can slide the inner disc 30 back into the outer sleeve 10. That is, the user can remove the inner disc 30 from... Figure 4C The second position slides back Figure 4A The first position. This movement causes the first portion 21 of the cover member 20 to move back above the recessed base of the inner disc 30. When the inner disc 30 reaches the first position, the engaging flap 50 can re-engage the engaging panel 40 of the outer sleeve 10 and place the container in a locked state. A resealable adhesive provided on the flange 39 of the inner disc 30 reseals the cover member 20 to the inner disc to form a sealed enclosure for consumer products.

Claims

1. A container for consumer products, the container comprising: The outer sleeve includes an outer sleeve top wall, an outer sleeve bottom wall, opposing first and second outer sleeve side walls, and a first open end; An inner disc, disposed within the outer sleeve, defines a recessed base for receiving the interior of a consumer product; as well as A covering member comprising a first portion covering the recessed base of the inner disc and a second portion extending beyond the recessed base and attached to the outer sleeve. The inner disc is slidable relative to the outer sleeve between the following: In a first position, the covering member and the recessed base form a cover for a consumer product; as well as The second position allows the user to access the interior of the recessed base. The sliding of the inner disc from the first position to the second position involves at least a portion of the inner disc passing through the first open end of the outer sleeve, and at least a portion of the cover member peeling off from the recessed base to expose the interior of the inner disc. The inner disk further includes an inner disk engagement flap. When the inner disc is in the first position within the outer sleeve, the edge of the inner disc engaging flap is configured to engage with a corresponding engaging element on the wall of the outer sleeve to form a locking mechanism to prevent the inner disc from sliding from the first position to the second position. The additional engaging element on the wall of the outer sleeve is formed by a retaining panel, which is connected to the wall of the outer sleeve at the first open end of the top wall of the outer sleeve via a fold line and is folded around the fold line such that the retaining panel is positioned below the top wall of the outer sleeve. The retaining panel has an inner surface facing the inner disk. Wherein, the second portion of the covering member is fixed to the inner surface of the retaining panel, and The corresponding engagement element on the wall of the outer sleeve is formed by the top wall of the outer sleeve and an engagement panel that hangs from the top wall of the outer sleeve by a fold line, wherein the engagement panel includes an internal cutout, and wherein the top wall of the outer sleeve includes a corresponding cutout.

2. The container of claim 1, wherein the inner tray includes an inner tray rear wall, and wherein the inner tray engaging flap hangs from the inner tray rear wall and is configured to cover the covering member.

3. The container according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the engaging element of the outer sleeve is disposed on the inner surface of the top wall of the outer sleeve.

4. The container according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the inner disc further includes a flange extending along the upper edge of the recessed base, and wherein when the inner disc is in the first position in the outer sleeve, a first portion of the covering member covers both the recessed base and the flange.

5. The container according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the inner disc further includes a pull tab that extends through the first open end of the outer sleeve when the inner disc is in the first position within the outer sleeve.

6. The container of claim 1, wherein the wall of the outer sleeve having the engaging element is further provided with a release element for disengaging the edge of the inner disc engaging flap from the engaging element.

7. The container of claim 6, wherein the release element comprises a release tab formed by at least one cut line on the wall of the outer sleeve having the engagement element.

8. The container of claim 6 or claim 7, wherein when the inner disc is in the first position within the outer sleeve, the release element covers at least a portion of the inner disc engagement flap.

9. The container according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the container further comprises a retaining mechanism for preventing the inner disc from sliding completely out of the first open end of the outer sleeve.

10. The container of claim 9, wherein the retaining mechanism includes the additional engaging element.

11. The container of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the covering member comprises an inner surface and an outer surface, and wherein when the inner disc is in the first position, the inner surface of the first portion of the covering member faces the interior of the recessed base, and wherein the inner surface of the second portion of the covering member is attached to the outer sleeve.

12. The container of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the second portion of the covering member is attached to a portion of the outer sleeve positioned adjacent to the first open end of the outer sleeve.

13. The container according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the top wall of the outer sleeve is formed by a first panel and a second panel covering the first panel.

14. The container of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the inner disc and the outer sleeve are configured such that the recessed base of the inner disc is completely located within the outer sleeve when the inner disc is in the first position.

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