Hinged lid container for consumer articles and method of forming a hinged lid container

Abstract

The present invention relates to a hinged lid container (10) for consumer articles, the container (10) defining an inner surface and an outer surface. The hinged lid container (10) comprises a box (14) for housing the consumer articles. The hinged lid container (10) further comprises a lid (16) hinged to the box along a hinge (17) and movable about the hinge (17) between a closed position and an open position. The hinge (17) comprises a weakening line (27) realized on the outer surface, the weakening line (27) having a width of 0.1 to 1 mm. The hinged lid container (10) further comprises an electrically conductive track (50) provided on the outer surface, the weakening line (27) passing through and interrupting the electrically conductive track (50). The electrically conductive track (50) forms a closed electrical circuit when the lid (16) is in the open position and the electrically conductive track (50) forms an open electrical circuit when the lid (16) is in the closed position.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a hinged lid container for consumable articles. The invention also relates to a method of forming the hinged lid container. Background Technology

[0002] It is known that sensors or electronic components can be added to containers used for consumable articles, such as those for aerosol-forming articles. These sensors or components can be, for example, light sources, sound sources, heat sources, communication elements, humidity sensors, temperature sensors, etc. These sensors or components only need to be activated at certain times during container use. For example, the light source or sound source only needs to be activated when the container is opened to remove the consumable article contained therein. Furthermore, the sensors and components may need to be connected to an energy source. To meet the above requirements in known containers, it may be necessary to print complex semiconductors on the container or to use solutions with special formats.

[0003] It is desirable to provide a container for consumable articles, the container having an easily energized sensor or electrical or electronic component. It is also desirable to provide a container for consumable articles that can be easily manufactured with minimal modifications using existing high-speed technologies and equipment. Summary of the Invention

[0004] According to one aspect, the present invention relates to a hinged-lid container for consumable articles, the container defining an inner surface and an outer surface. Preferably, the hinged-lid container includes a box for receiving consumable articles. Preferably, the hinged-lid container includes a lid hinged to the box along a hinge and movable about the hinge between a closed position and an active position. Preferably, the hinge includes a weakening line implemented on the outer surface. Preferably, the weakening line has a width of 0.1 mm to 1 mm. Preferably, the hinged-lid container includes a conductive trace disposed on the outer surface, through which the weakening line passes and interrupts the conductive trace. Preferably, the conductive trace forms a closed circuit when the lid is in the active position, and forms an open circuit when the lid is in the closed position.

[0005] According to another aspect, the present invention relates to a hinged-lid container for consumable articles, the container defining an inner surface and an outer surface. The hinged-lid container includes a housing for receiving consumable articles. The hinged-lid container also includes a lid hinged to the housing along a hinge and movable about the hinge between a closed position and an active position. The hinge includes a weakening line implemented on the outer surface, the weakening line having a width of 0.1 mm to 1 mm. The hinged-lid container also includes a conductive trace disposed on the outer surface, the weakening line passing through and interrupting the conductive trace. The conductive trace forms a closed circuit when the lid is in the active position, and forms an open circuit when the lid is in the closed position.

[0006] The hinged lid container includes a box and a lid. Preferably, the box has a front wall, a rear wall, side walls, and a bottom wall. Preferably, the lid has a front wall, a rear wall, side walls, and a top wall. The lid is movable from a closed position to an open position and vice versa. In the closed position, the lid's rear wall and the box's rear wall are coplanar. Therefore, in this closed position, the rear wall of the lid and the rear wall of the box form an angle of 180 degrees between them. Furthermore, when the lid is in the closed position, the conductive traces form an open circuit.

[0007] The container defines an inner surface facing the article and an outer surface facing away from the article. The lid also defines an inner surface and an outer surface, the outer surface of which is the portion of the container's outer surface that belongs to the lid. The box also defines an inner surface and an outer surface, the outer surface of which is the portion of the container's outer surface that belongs to the box.

[0008] The lid is hinged to the box along a hinge line that defines a hinge line extending across the rear wall of the container. Therefore, the lid can rotate about the hinge line. The statement that the lid is in the active position means that the rear wall of the lid and the rear wall of the box are not coplanar and form a given angle between them that is different from 180 degrees. Furthermore, when the lid is in the active position, the conductive traces form a closed circuit. To reach the active position, the lid has rotated a given angle about the hinge from a closed position where the conductive traces form an open circuit. Therefore, "active position" means multiple positions in which the lid has rotated a given angle about the hinge. In each of the multiple active positions, there is an angle between the rear wall of the box and the rear wall of the lid that is different from 180 degrees. The angle formed between the rear wall of the lid and the rear wall of the box in the active position is preferably less than 165 degrees. The angle formed between the rear wall of the lid and the rear wall of the box in the active position is preferably less than 150 degrees. The angle formed between the rear wall of the lid and the rear wall of the box is preferably less than 135 degrees. The angle formed between the rear wall of the lid and the rear wall of the box to allow the lid to be in the movable position is preferably between 0 degrees and 165 degrees. When the angle is 0 degrees, the rear wall of the lid and the rear wall of the box face each other, and the outer surface of the rear wall of the lid is in contact with the outer surface of the rear wall of the box.

[0009] The first active angle can be defined as the widest angle formed between the rear wall of the lid and the rear wall of the box, at which the conductive circuit forms a closed circuit. The first active angle is preferably equal to 165 degrees, more preferably equal to 150 degrees, and even more preferably equal to 135 degrees.

[0010] The lid may also define an "open position," which is a position in which a user can access the article contained in the container. Preferably, starting from a closed position in which the rear wall of the lid and the rear wall of the box are coplanar, the lid is rotated about the hinge line to reach a first active position by a first active angle. The lid is then rotated further to reach an open position by a second angle between the rear wall of the lid and the rear wall of the box, the second angle being smaller than the first active angle.

[0011] Preferably, the hinged-lid container can be formed from a blank comprising multiple panels. To assemble the hinged-lid container, the blank is folded such that the panels of the blank can form the walls of the container. The manner in which the blank is folded depends on the desired geometry of the container. Preferably, one portion of the blank, referred to as the lid portion, is folded to form a lid. Preferably, another portion of the blank, referred to as the box portion, is folded to form a box. For example, typically, the container has a parallelepiped form. Preferably, the blank is folded in such a manner that, when the lid is in the closed position, the container defines a completely enclosed internal volume. Consumable articles are preferably stored in this internal volume.

[0012] The container further includes a hinge. The hinge defines a hinge line. The lid moves about the hinge line from an open position to a closed position and vice versa. When the lid is in the closed position, there is no rotation of the lid about the hinge line. The lid can rotate about the hinge line until the outer surface of the rear wall of the lid contacts the outer surface of the rear wall of the container.

[0013] According to the invention, the hinge line includes a weakening line. More preferably, the weakening line includes an ablation line or a crease line. The weakening line can be the same length as the hinge line. Preferably, the entire hinge line is formed as a weakening line. In some embodiments of the invention, the weakening line may only cover a portion of the hinge line, particularly where the conductive trace crosses the hinge line, so that the weakening line can pass through and interrupt the conductive trace. Therefore, the weakening line can be shorter than the hinge line. For example, the hinge line may include a first portion containing an ablation line and a second portion containing a crease line.

[0014] Preferably, the weakening line is a straight line. Preferably, the weakening line is parallel to the bottom wall of the box. Preferably, the weakening line is parallel to the top wall of the lid.

[0015] A weakening line is formed on the outer surface of the container. Preferably, the weakening line is formed on the rear wall of the container. The weakening line may involve removing material at a specific location within a portion of the rear wall of the container that defines the hinge line of the container.

[0016] For example, a weakening line can be created by precisely removing material from the rear wall of a container using a linear ablation tool (e.g., a laser or cutter). Preferably, the weakening line is an ablation line. Preferably, ablation is performed by a laser. A laser is a particularly preferred ablation tool because it is non-invasive and can be digitally programmed for improved design flexibility. Specifically, using a laser as the ablation tool allows for a wide variety of ablation profiles and configurations requiring minimal adjustments to the laser tool. Repeated passes of the ablation tool over a given portion of the rear wall result in the removal of a larger percentage of material, which in turn reduces the residual thickness. Therefore, the manufacturing process can be simplified. Laser ablation can be achieved using any suitable equipment, preferably, such as a 1000-watt CO2 laser available from DIAMOND, for example, the E-1000.

[0017] Preferably, a single weakening line is formed. However, more than one weakening line can be formed along the same hinge line at a given mutual distance.

[0018] Preferably, the ablation line is formed as a substantially V-shaped groove within the container. That is, preferably, when the lid is in the closed position, the ablation line has a substantially V-shaped cross-sectional profile in the rear wall. The V-shape is visible from a cross-section of the rear wall of the container that is substantially perpendicular to the outer surface of the rear wall. The cross-sectional profile of the ablation line can be determined using an optical profile generated using 2D non-contact surface metrology (such as MicroSpy(RTM) Profile, available from Fries Research & Technology GmbH, Bergisch Gladbach, Germany).

[0019] Furthermore, the width of the weakening line is between 0.1 mm and 1 mm. More preferably, the width of the weakening line is at least 0.15 mm. Alternatively, the width of the weakening line may be less than 0.5 mm. More preferably, the width of the weakening line is less than 0.3 mm. In some preferred embodiments, the width of the weakening line is from 0.1 mm to 0.3 mm.

[0020] A weakening line defines a first edge and a second edge, one of which lies in front of the other on the outer surface of the container. The width of the weakening line is measured as the distance between the first and second edges on the outer surface of the container. The width of the weakening line is measured when the lid is in the closed position. In this position, the width of the weakening line is at its maximum. This is the location where the width of the weakening line is measured. The width of the weakening line can be determined using an optical profilometer for 2D and 3D non-contact surface metrology (such as MicroSpy(RTM) Profile (available from Fries Research & Technology GmbH, Bergisch Gladbach, Germany)). Preferably, a number of distances between the first and second edges are measured along the length of the weakening line. The measurements are uniformly distributed along the length of the weakening line, and the arithmetic mean is calculated. Therefore, the width of the weakening line is the arithmetic mean of a number of distances measured along the length of the weakening line. Preferably, between the first and second edges, the weakening line defines a groove in which material from the rear wall of the container has been removed.

[0021] Preferably, the width of the weakening line is measured when the weakening line is formed on the blank before folding the blank to form the container.

[0022] As the cover moves from the closed position to the open position, the rotation of the cover around the hinge gradually closes the weakening line. Due to the cover's rotation, the width of the weakening line continuously decreases until the first edge contacts the second edge. The contact between the first and second edges can occur at a first angle of movement and for angles smaller than the first angle of movement.

[0023] Preferably, the weakening line has a minimum residual thickness of about 40% less than the thickness of the rear wall of the container. Preferably, the weakening line has a minimum residual thickness of about 40% less than the thickness of the blank forming the container. Preferably, the weakening line has a minimum residual thickness of at least about 20% of the thickness of the rear wall (or blank) of the container.

[0024] The residual thickness of the weakened line can be determined using an optical profilometer for 2D and 3D non-contact surface metrology (such as MicroSpy (RTM) Profile, available from Fries Research & Technology GmbH, Bergisch Gladbach, Germany). Preferably, several points of minimum residual thickness are measured along the length of the weakened line, with the measurement points uniformly distributed along the length of the weakened line, and the arithmetic mean is calculated. Even more preferably, to obtain the “minimum residual thickness” according to the invention, five measurements are performed uniformly distributed along the length of the weakened line, and then the arithmetic mean is calculated.

[0025] For example, if the length of the weakening line is 80 mm, the residual thickness is measured at both ends of the weakening line and at three other points 20 mm, 40 mm and 60 mm away from one end of the weakening line, respectively.

[0026] Furthermore, conductive traces are formed on the rear wall of the container. Preferably, the conductive traces are formed on the rear wall of the lid and the rear wall of the box. The conductive traces preferably define a circuit, which is shaped as needed. The conductive traces are formed on the outer surface of the container. A single conductive trace or more than one conductive trace can be formed.

[0027] Preferably, conductive traces are formed using techniques for producing printed electronic devices. The selected technique preferably uses common printing equipment suitable for defining patterns on containers. The pattern produced by the conductive traces printed on the container depends on the desired type of circuit to be formed. Possible techniques for forming conductive traces on containers include, for example, screen printing, flexographic printing, gravure printing, offset printing, and inkjet printing. In any of these printing techniques, electrofunctional electronic or optical inks are deposited on the outer surface of the container. In this way, conductive traces can be formed.

[0028] For example, conductive traces are formed by moving a printhead equipped with a mechanical stop / start gate relative to the container.

[0029] Preferably, the formation of the conductive traces occurs on the blank before the blank is folded to form the container.

[0030] The conductive trace is interrupted by a weakening line. The weakening line passes through the conductive trace and divides it into two parts. Preferably, the first part of the conductive trace is located on the outer surface of the rear wall of the lid, and the second part of the conductive trace is located on the outer surface of the rear wall of the box. When the lid is in the closed position, the width of the weakening line is at its maximum, and due to the interruption, no current can flow between the first and second parts of the conductive trace. The circuit formed by the conductive trace is broken. Therefore, when the lid is in the closed position, the rear wall of the lid and the rear wall of the box are substantially coplanar, and current flow cannot circulate in the conductive trace due to the interruption caused by the weakening line.

[0031] However, when the cover moves from the closed position to the active position, the first and second portions of the conductive trace, which have been separated by the weakened line, come into contact. By rotating the cover about the hinge line, the weakened line is compressed, and the first and second edges of the weakened line are brought into a configuration where the two edges contact each other. The width of the weakened line becomes essentially zero. In the active position of the cover, there is contact between the first and second portions of the conductive trace separated by the weakened line, and the conductive trace forms a closed circuit, allowing current to flow.

[0032] The width of the weakening line is chosen such that reliable contact between the first and second portions of the conductive trace is possible when the cover is moved from the closed position to the open position, and vice versa. The rotation of the cover can be likened to the action of a "switch". When the cover is in the closed position, the circuit is open. Rotating the cover opens the switch and closes the circuit.

[0033] When the lid is in the active position, the electrical continuity between the first and second portions of the conductive trace is also enhanced by preferably depositing a conductive material on the rear wall of the container. During deposition, the material forming the conductive trace pours over the first and second edges of the weakened line, thereby “reducing” the distance and increasing the contact surface, and thus enabling better contact between the first and second portions. During the formation of the conductive trace, the material forming the conductive trace may “overflow” into the V-shaped groove defined by the weakened line. For example, during the deposition of the conductive line, the material forming the conductive trace may experience limited flow from the first and second edges of the weakened line within the V-shaped groove. Therefore, the conductive trace extends approximately 1 micrometer or 2 micrometers in length within the groove from the first edge and from the second edge, respectively. When the lid is in the active position, these portions of the material forming the conductive trace pouring over the edges of the groove defined by the weakened line increase the contact surface between the first and second portions of the conductive trace. Therefore, better contact between the two portions of the conductive trace is ensured.

[0034] Therefore, the container according to the invention allows the circuit to be opened and closed simply by rotating the lid relative to the box. By rotating the lid about the hinge, the circuit formed by the conductive traces moves in a very simple and reliable manner from an open configuration when the lid is closed to a closed configuration when the lid is in the active position.

[0035] Furthermore, circuits can be used for multiple purposes based on the same operating principle.

[0036] The container of the present invention can be formed by only slight modifications to standard processes known in industry for forming containers. Therefore, almost no additional cost is required to modify the existing blanks and machines.

[0037] According to another aspect, the present invention relates to a method for forming a hinged lid container for consumable articles. Preferably, the method includes the steps of: providing a container blank defining an outer surface and an inner surface, wherein the container blank includes a box portion for forming a box and a lid portion for forming a lid. Preferably, the method includes the step of: forming a weakening line having a width of 0.1 mm to 1 mm on the outer surface, the weakening line forming a hinge for the lid such that the lid can move from a closed position to an active position on the box. Preferably, the method includes the step of: providing conductive traces on the outer surface, including providing conductive traces across the weakening line. Preferably, the method includes the step of: folding the blank to form the hinged lid container, wherein the conductive traces form a closed circuit when the lid is in the active position and an open circuit when the lid is in the closed position.

[0038] According to another aspect, the present invention relates to a method for forming a hinged lid container for consumable articles. The method includes the steps of: providing a container blank defining an outer surface and an inner surface, wherein the container blank includes a box portion for forming a case and a lid portion for forming a lid. The method further includes the step of: forming a weakening line having a width of 0.1 mm to 1 mm on the outer surface, the weakening line forming a hinge for the lid such that the lid is movable from a closed position to an active position on the case. The method further includes the step of: providing conductive traces on the outer surface, including providing conductive traces across the weakening line. The method further includes the step of: folding the blank to form the hinged lid container, wherein the conductive traces form a closed circuit when the lid is in the active position and an open circuit when the lid is in the closed position.

[0039] The many advantages of the method have already been outlined in the description of the container of the present invention, and will not be repeated here.

[0040] According to the invention, a weakening line is preferably formed on a blank, referred to as a container blank, before the blank is folded. Preferably, the weakening line is formed first, followed by a conductive trace. Preferably, the blank is folded to form a container after the weakening line and the conductive trace are formed. The conductive trace is preferably formed after the weakening line is formed because, in this way, excess material forming the conductive trace spills beyond the edge of the weakening line. This "spilling" can be achieved during the printing process when material is deposited onto the weakening line. The excess material spilled to form the conductive trace forms the leading edge and trailing edge of the conductive trace at the first and second portions of the conductive trace, respectively. Therefore, reliable contact between the first and second portions of the conductive trace can be obtained. The first portion ends at the leading edge, and the second portion begins at the trailing edge.

[0041] Furthermore, the width of the weakening line is chosen such that the material forming the conductive trace does not enter or only partially enters the weakening line. In this way, when the cover is in the closed position, the circuit formed by the conductive trace is broken.

[0042] Preferably, the container is formed at least partially by folding a blank. Preferably, the blank is a layered blank. The blank is preferably a conventional blank used for producing containers for consumable articles, such as a standard blank used for manufacturing hinged-cap cigarette packs. No special materials are required in this invention; the starting materials are standard materials in the art.

[0043] More preferably, the lid and body are formed by folding the same blank. Preferably, the blank has a body portion and a lid portion connected to each other. Folding these portions forms a container with a lid and a box. Folding the blank into a hinged lid container is preferably known in the art. In some preferred embodiments, the blank forms at least a portion of the container, the at least a portion of the container including a box portion having a front box wall, a rear box wall, and a box sidewall extending between the front box wall and the rear box wall. Alternatively or in an alternative embodiment, the blank preferably forms at least a portion of the container, the at least a portion of the container including a lid portion having a front lid wall, a rear lid wall, and a lid sidewall extending between the front lid wall and the rear lid wall.

[0044] Preferably, the thickness of the billet is 200 micrometers to 400 micrometers. More preferably, the thickness of the billet is 260 micrometers to 340 micrometers. Even more preferably, the thickness of the billet is between 280 micrometers and 320 micrometers. The thickness of the billet can be measured according to ISO 534:2011.

[0045] The blank is preferably a cellulose fiber-based blank. Preferably, the blank is formed from cardboard or paperboard. Preferably, the cellulose fiber-based material is derived from plants, more preferably from wood. Based on the total fiber content of the blank, the blank may contain at least 50% by weight, preferably at least 60% by weight, and even more preferably at least 70% by weight of cellulose fibers. Preferably, the blank is formed from wood fiber cardboard or paperboard. Alternatively, the cellulose fiber-based material may also contain other fibers, such as polymer fibers. The blank may be coated or uncoated, and preferably coated on both sides.

[0046] The container may optionally include an outer packaging material, preferably a transparent polymer film made of, for example, high- or low-density polyethylene, polypropylene, oriented polypropylene, polyvinylidene chloride, cellulose film, or combinations thereof, and said outer packaging material is applied in a conventional manner. The outer packaging material may include tear-off tape. Additionally, the outer packaging material may be printed with images, consumable information, or other data.

[0047] Preferably, the billet has a base weight of about 100 g / m² to about 350 g / m². In some preferred embodiments, the billet has a base weight of about 160 g / m² to about 240 g / m². It should be understood that these ranges represent average values ​​and the base weight of the billet can vary between batches, for example, by 10 percent, or by 10 percent, preferably by 5 percent, or by 5 percent.

[0048] Preferably, the container includes a rear wall with a thickness, in which the weakening line is formed, and wherein the weakening line has a depth between 30% and 80% of the thickness of the rear wall. The depth of the weakening line is preferably between 40% and 70% of the thickness of the rear wall of the container. The rear wall includes a lid rear wall and a box rear wall. When the lid is in the closed position, the lid rear wall and the box rear wall are substantially coplanar. Further, the thickness of the rear wall is substantially the thickness of the blank. If the weakening line is too deep, the hinge line may become vulnerable and may break during use. If the weakening line is too shallow, the tension remaining when the plate bends around the weakening line may hinder proper closure of the circuit.

[0049] Preferably, the container includes an energy source. Preferably, the container includes an electrical load. Preferably, the electrical load includes a light source. Preferably, the electrical load includes a sensor. Preferably, the electrical load includes an antenna. Preferably, the electrical load includes a heating element. Preferably, the electrical load includes an acoustic emitter. Preferably, the conductive trace connects the energy source to the electrical load when forming a closed circuit. Preferably, the container includes more than one electrical load. Preferably, the container includes more than one energy source. Preferably, the power source included in the container is a battery. The battery can be a printed battery, for example, implemented according to US2688649 or EP 1485960. The energy source can be rechargeable or non-rechargeable. The power source can include a solar panel. The energy source can include a charged capacitor. The energy source can be located inside the container. Therefore, the energy source can utilize some volume present inside the container, for example, with consumable articles. The energy source can be located outside the container, for example, attached to the outer surface of the container. The energy source can be formed using the same technique used to form the conductive trace. For example, the energy source can be printed on the outer surface of the container. The energy source is preferably used to energize the electrical load. The electrical load and the energy source are connected via conductive traces. Preferably, the conductive traces form a circuit that connects the energy source to the electrical load.

[0050] For example, the energy source can be located on the box portion of the container, while the electrical load can be located on the lid portion of the container, or vice versa.

[0051] The electrical load can be located inside the container. Therefore, the electrical load can utilize some volume present inside the container, for example, along with consumable articles. The electrical load can also be located outside the container, for example, attached to the outer surface of the container. The electrical load can be formed using the same technique used to form conductive traces. For example, the electrical load can be printed on the outer surface of the container.

[0052] The electrical load can be, for example, a light source. Therefore, when the cover moves from the closed position to the open position, the light source can emit electromagnetic radiation. The light source can include an LED.

[0053] The electrical load can be, for example, a sensor. Therefore, as the lid moves from the closed position to the open position, the sensor can sense predefined parameters around the container. The sensor may include a temperature sensor. The sensor may include a humidity sensor.

[0054] The electrical load can be, for example, an antenna. Therefore, when the lid moves from the closed position to the open position, the antenna can transmit a signal to an external receiver. The receiver is preferably located outside the container. The signal can be correlated with parameters measured by sensors. The signal can be correlated with the state of the container. The antenna can include a microstrip antenna or a printed antenna.

[0055] The electrical load can be, for example, a heating element. Therefore, when the lid moves from the closed position to the open position, the heating element begins to generate heat. Heating the container can be useful in cold environments.

[0056] The electrical load can be, for example, an acoustic emitter. Therefore, the acoustic emitter can emit a sound when the lid moves from the closed position to the open position. The emitter can be activated first as a result of a trigger signal, and only emit a sound when the lid is opened after activation. The quantity of consumables used within a given time period can be counted.

[0057] Preferably, the conductive trace has a basis weight between 1 g / m² and 50 g / m². Preferably, the conductive trace has a basis weight between 1 g / m² and 20 g / m². Preferably, the conductive trace has a width between 0.1 mm and 25 mm.

[0058] Preferably, the conductive trace has a width between 0.3 mm and 5 mm. The width and basis weight of the conductive trace are measured when it is dry. For example, if the conductive trace is printed, the ink deposited on the outer surface of the container is initially wet. The above measures are taken when the ink is dry. The width of the conductive trace is measured using the same method used to measure the width of the weakened line.

[0059] Preferably, the conductive traces comprise conductive ink. More preferably, the conductive ink comprises one or more of the following: conductive carbon, carbon nanotubes, graphene, silver, copper, indium tin oxide, and conductive polymers. Conductive ink is an ink that produces conductive printed objects. Conductive ink is relatively economical and very effective in materials such as cardboard, plastic, or any flexible material. Conductive ink also allows for the creation of circuits on flexible materials.

[0060] Preferably, the container includes a rear wall and a top wall, and conductive traces are printed on the rear wall or both the rear wall and the top wall. Circuitry is partially formed on the lid and partially on the housing, such that the ablation wires can act as a “switch” as the lid alternates between an active and a closed position.

[0061] Preferably, the weakening line has a length longer than 0.1 mm. The length of the weakening line is longer than the width of the conductive trace because it must completely interrupt the conductive trace. The maximum length of the weakening line is equal to the length of the hinge, which is essentially the width of the container.

[0062] Preferably, a gap is defined between the leading edge and trailing edge of the conductive trace on the first and second portions of the respective conductive traces, the width of which is smaller than the width of the weakening line. Preferably, the weakening line is first formed in the blank. Then, the conductive trace is formed on the blank in which the weakening line has been formed. The conductive trace is also formed on the top of the weakening line. Due to the width of the weakening line, the material forming the conductive trace does not enter the weakening line and remains on the outer surface of the container. However, from the first edge and at the second edge of the weakening line, the material forming the conductive trace slightly pours over the first and second edges of the weakening line and thus forms the leading edge and trailing edge of the conductive trace on the corresponding first and second portions of the conductive trace. The space between the leading edge of the material forming the conductive trace on one side of the weakening line and the trailing edge of the conductive trace on the other side of the weakening line is called a "gap". The width of this gap is smaller than the width of the weakening line. The width of the gap is equal to the distance between the first and second portions of the conductive trace. The gap is therefore narrower than the width of the weakening line.

[0063] Preferably, the step of forming the weakening line includes ablating the outer surface of the container. More preferably, the step of ablating the outer surface of the container includes ablating the outer surface with a laser beam. Advantageously, the blank of the present invention can be manufactured by precisely removing material from the blank using a linear ablation tool (e.g., a laser or a cutter). A laser is a particularly preferred ablation tool because it is non-invasive and can be digitally programmed for improved design flexibility.

[0064] Preferably, the method includes the step of energizing the load while forming a closed circuit. Preferably, the conductive traces form the circuit and the cover functions as a "switch": when in the active position, the cover closes the circuit; when in the closed position, the cover opens the circuit. The circuit is preferably used to supply current to the load, which can be any electrical load. Examples of electrical loads have been given above. Preferably, the electrical load and the conductive traces are formed using the same technique. Preferably, the electrical load is printed on the outer surface of the container.

[0065] Preferably, the method of the present invention includes the step of turning on a light source when forming a closed circuit. Preferably, the method of the present invention includes the step of emitting sound when forming a closed circuit. Preferably, the method of the present invention includes the step of transmitting a telecommunication signal when forming a closed circuit. Preferably, the method of the present invention includes the step of heating a container when forming a closed circuit. Preferably, the method of the present invention includes the step of sensing parameters when forming a closed circuit. Preferably, the method may include two of the following steps: turning on a light source when forming a closed circuit; emitting sound when forming a closed circuit; transmitting a telecommunication signal when forming a closed circuit; heating a container when forming a closed circuit; and sensing parameters when forming a closed circuit. Preferably, the method includes three of the above steps. Preferably, the method includes all of the above steps.

[0066] Preferably, the method includes the step of providing an energy source to the container. Preferably, the energy source and the conductive traces are formed using the same technique. Preferably, the electrical load and the conductive traces are formed using the same technique. Preferably, the energy source is printed on the outer surface of the container.

[0067] Preferably, the step of forming a closed circuit by the conductive trace when the lid is in the active position includes forming an angle of less than 165 degrees between the rear wall of the lid and the rear wall of the box. The rear wall of the container is formed by the rear wall of the lid and the rear wall of the box. When the lid is in the closed configuration, the rear wall of the lid and the rear wall of the box are substantially coplanar, so the angle formed between the plane defined by the rear wall of the box and the plane defined by the rear wall of the lid is substantially equal to 180 degrees. This angle decreases as the lid rotates about the hinge because the plane defined by the rear wall of the lid becomes inclined relative to the plane defined by the rear wall of the box. When the lid is in the fully open configuration, the rear wall of the box faces the rear wall of the lid and the aforementioned angle becomes substantially equal to 0 degrees. Therefore, the rear wall of the lid and the rear wall of the box can form any angle between 0 degrees and 180 degrees. When the angle is less than 165 degrees, the first and second portions of the conductive trace contact and the circuit is closed. Preferably, the angle is less than 150 degrees.

[0068] The "thickness" of a billet is the thickness of the billet after it has been manufactured but before any ablation lines or creases have formed in the billet. That is, the thickness of the billet is the thickness of any region of the billet that does not contain ablation lines or creases.

[0069] The term "residual thickness" is used herein to refer to the minimum distance measured between two opposing surfaces of the wall of a layered billet or a container formed from the billet. In practice, the distance at a given location is measured along a direction locally perpendicular to the opposing surfaces. The residual thickness of a weakening line can span variations in the width of the weakening line (e.g., V-shaped, U-shaped grooves).

[0070] The term “minimum residual thickness” is used in this document to refer to the minimum “residual thickness” measured at a given location within the weakening line.

[0071] The term "cellulose fiber-based preform" is used herein to refer to a preform whose total fiber content comprises at least 50% by weight of cellulose fibers. The cellulose fiber-based or wood fiber-based preforms of this invention may include other types of fibers, such as polymer fibers.

[0072] The container according to the invention is particularly suitable as a container for elongated aerosol-generating articles such as cigarettes, cigars, mini cigars, or other aerosol generators that rely on heating (e.g., by an electric or charcoal heat source) rather than burning tobacco. It should be understood that, by appropriately selecting its size, the container according to the invention can be designed for different numbers of regular, extra-large, super-large, elongated, or ultra-elongated aerosol-generating articles. Alternatively, other consumable articles can be contained within the container.

[0073] The container formed according to the invention can be in the shape of a cuboid, having right-angled longitudinal edges and right-angled transverse edges. Alternatively, the container may include one or more circular longitudinal edges, circular transverse edges, slanted longitudinal edges or slanted transverse edges, or combinations thereof. Alternatively, the container may have a non-rectangular transverse cross-section, such as a polygon, such as a triangle or hexagon, a semi-elliptical or semi-circular transverse cross-section.

[0074] Typically, the external dimensions of the container are approximately 0.5 mm to approximately 5 mm larger than the dimensions of the bundle or multiple bundles of aerosols contained within the container.

[0075] Preferably, the container according to the invention has a height of about 60 mm to about 150 mm, more preferably about 70 mm to about 125 mm, wherein the height is measured from the bottom wall to the top wall of the container. Preferably, the container according to the invention has a width of about 12 mm to about 150 mm, more preferably about 70 mm to about 125 mm, wherein the width is measured from one side wall to the other side wall of the container.

[0076] Preferably, the container according to the invention has a depth of about 6 mm to about 150 mm, more preferably about 12 mm to about 25 mm, wherein the depth is measured from the front wall to the rear wall of the container (including the hinge between the box and the lid).

[0077] Preferably, the ratio of the height of the container to the depth of the container is between about 0.3:1 and about 10:1, more preferably between about 2:1 and about 8:1, and most preferably between about 3:1 and 5:1.

[0078] Preferably, the ratio of the width to the depth of the container is between about 0.3:1 and about 10:1, more preferably between about 2:1 and about 8:1, and most preferably between about 2:1 and 3:1.

[0079] In cases where the container includes an aerosol-generating article, the container may further include a waste compartment (e.g., for cigarette ash or butts) or other consumables such as matches, lighters, extinguishing devices, breath fresheners, or electronic devices. Other consumables may be attached to the outside of the container, contained within the container together with the aerosol-generating article, in a separate compartment of the container, or in a combination thereof.

[0080] Throughout this specification, the term "inner surface" refers to the surface of a component of the container facing inwards (e.g., towards the consumable) 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 the container has an inner surface facing inwards and towards the consumable, and an outer surface facing away from the consumable. 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 consumable, an area on the same side of the blank may face inwards or outwards towards the container.

[0081] As used herein, the terms “front,” “rear,” “upper,” “lower,” “top,” “bottom,” and “side” refer to the relative positions of portions of the container and its components according to the invention when the container is in an upright position and the container’s entry opening is at the top of the container. These terms are used when describing a container according to the invention, regardless of the orientation of the container being described. The rear wall of the external hinged cover housing is the wall that includes the hinge line.

[0082] When describing a container according to the invention, the term "longitudinal" refers to the direction from bottom to top or vice versa, while the term "transverse" refers to the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. For example, "the longitudinal axis of the container" is an axis extending from the bottom to the top, or vice versa.

[0083] The term "width" is used to describe the dimensions of a component, such as the panel of a blank or the wall of a container, measured in the lateral direction.

[0084] Throughout this specification, the term "panel" is used to refer to a portion of the blank used to form the walls of an assembled container. A panel may hang from one or more other panels along one or more fold lines.

[0085] In an assembled container, the "walls" can be formed by one or more stacked panels. If there are several stacked panels, these panels can be attached to each other, for example, by adhesive. Alternatively, the walls can be formed by two or more adjacent or overlapping panels.

[0086] The term "thickness" is used herein to refer to the minimum distance measured between two opposing surfaces of a sheet blank or layer of sheet blanks. In practice, the distance at a given location is measured along a direction locally perpendicular to the opposing surfaces. The "thickness" of a layer will generally be substantially constant (flat profile) across the layer. However, local variations may occur if portions of the sheet blank are, for example, embossed, engraved, weakened, etc.

[0087] The term "hinge line" refers to the line around which the lid can pivot to open the hinged lid housing. The hinge line is a weakened line. A hinge line can be, for example, a fold line or notch line in a panel forming the rear wall of a container.

[0088] The term "weakening line" is used herein to describe a portion of the surface of a container or package (or a blank from which it forms) in which the structural strength of the material (or blank) from which it forms has been weakened by any suitable technique, such as in relation to bending, folding, or tearing along the weakening line. For example, a weakening line can be formed as a notch, crease, ablation line, or perforation line. Weakening lines can be created by material removal, material displacement, material compression, such as by locally reducing the forces holding the material together by breaking fibers in fibrous materials, and combinations of all of the above. Weakening lines can be straight, curved, segmented, continuous, or a combination thereof. In many cases, weakening lines are used to assist in positioning fold lines in the blank. Weakening lines can also be used, for example, by compression in a direction perpendicular to the weakening line. Additionally, weakening lines can be used for decorative purposes.

[0089] The term "ablation line" is used herein to refer to a line along the inner surface of an edge portion from which material has been ablated (e.g., removed by means of a laser beam or cutter). Therefore, the residual thickness of the ablation line is less than the thickness of the layered blank. Preferably, the ablation line is provided as a groove within the blank. This can be formed using a linear ablation tool (such as a laser or cutter). The term "ablation line" also encompasses, in its meaning, a notch line (when it involves the removal of material).

[0090] The term "score line" is used to describe a line formed by partially cutting into the billet material. Score lines can be formed by removing material from the billet (in which case, the score line forms a groove or channel in the billet).

[0091] The term "perforation line" is used to describe a line or sequence of discrete holes or slots in a workpiece. Holes can be formed by pushing an object through the workpiece. This may allow material to be removed from the workpiece, for example, by drilling. Alternatively, holes can be created without removing material, simply by using an object to push material outward from the center of the hole. As another alternative, holes can be formed using a laser beam.

[0092] 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 flexibility of the blank material and other material properties.

[0093] The invention is defined in the claims. However, a non-exhaustive list of non-limiting examples is provided below. Any one or more features of these examples may be combined with any one or more features of another example, embodiment, or aspect described herein.

[0094] Example Ex1: A hinged-lid container for consumable articles, the container defining an inner surface and an outer surface and comprising:

[0095] A box for containing the consumable product;

[0096] A lid, which is hinged to the box along a hinge and is movable about the hinge between a closed position and an open position;

[0097] The hinge includes a weakening line implemented on the outer surface, the weakening line having a width of 0.1 mm to 1 mm;

[0098] A conductive trace is disposed on the outer surface, and the weakening line passes through and interrupts the conductive trace;

[0099] The conductive trace forms a closed circuit when the cover is in the active position, and forms an open circuit when the cover is in the closed position.

[0100] Example Ex2: The container according to Example Ex1, wherein the container is formed at least in part by folding a blank.

[0101] Example Ex3: A container according to Example Ex2, wherein the lid and the body are formed by folding the same blank.

[0102] Example Ex4: A container according to Example Ex2 or Example Ex3, wherein the blank has a thickness between 200 micrometers and 400 micrometers.

[0103] Example Ex5: A container according to any one of Examples Ex2 to Ex4, wherein the blank comprises a cellulose fiber-based blank.

[0104] Example Ex6: A container according to one or more of the foregoing examples includes a rear wall with a thickness, the weakening line being formed in the rear wall, and wherein the weakening line has a depth comprising between 20% and 80% of the thickness of the rear wall.

[0105] Example Ex7: A container based on one or more of the preceding examples, including an energy source and one or more of the following loads:

[0106] light source;

[0107] sensor;

[0108] antenna;

[0109] Heating element;

[0110] Acoustic emitter;

[0111] Furthermore, the conductive traces connect the energy source to the electrical load when forming a closed circuit.

[0112] Example Ex8: A container according to one or more of the foregoing examples, wherein the conductive trace has a weight between 1 g / m² and 50 g / m².

[0113] Example Ex9: A container according to one or more of the foregoing examples, wherein the conductive trace has a width between 0.1 mm and 25 mm.

[0114] Example Ex10: A container according to one or more of the foregoing examples, including a rear wall and a top wall, wherein the conductive trace is printed on the rear wall or on both the rear wall and the top wall.

[0115] Example Ex11: A container according to one or more of the foregoing examples, wherein the weakening line has a length longer than 0.1 mm.

[0116] Example Ex12: A container according to one or more of the foregoing examples, wherein the conductive trace interrupted by the weakening line defines a gap through the leading edge and the trailing edge of the conductive trace.

[0117] Example Ex13: According to the container of Ex12, the width of the gap is less than the width of the weakening line.

[0118] Example Ex14: A method for forming a hinged lid container for consumable articles, the method comprising the following steps:

[0119] A container blank is provided that defines an outer surface and an inner surface, wherein the blank includes a box portion for forming a box and a lid portion for forming a lid;

[0120] A weakening line is formed on the outer surface, the weakening line having a width of 0.1 mm to 1 mm, the weakening line forming a hinge for the cover so that the cover can move from a closed position to an open position on the box;

[0121] Provide conductive traces on the outer surface, including providing the conductive traces across the weakened lines;

[0122] The blank is folded to form the hinged lid container, wherein the conductive traces form a closed circuit when the lid is in the active position, and the conductive traces form an open circuit when the lid is in the closed position.

[0123] Example Ex15: According to the method of Example Ex14, the step of forming the weakening line includes:

[0124] The outer surface is ablated.

[0125] Example Ex16: According to the method of Example Ex15, the step of ablating the outer surface includes:

[0126] The outer surface is ablated by a laser beam.

[0127] Example Ex17: Based on the method of any one of Examples Ex14 to Ex16, include the following steps:

[0128] The load is energized when the closed circuit is formed.

[0129] Example Ex18: Based on the method of Example Ex17, it includes one or more of the following steps:

[0130] The light source is switched on when the closed circuit is formed;

[0131] A sound is emitted when the closed circuit is formed;

[0132] Transmit telecommunication signals when the closed circuit is formed;

[0133] The container is heated while the closed circuit is being formed;

[0134] Parameters are sensed when the closed circuit is formed.

[0135] Example Ex19: Based on one or more of the methods in Examples Ex14 to Ex18, include the following steps:

[0136] Provide an energy source for the container.

[0137] Example Ex20: According to one or more of Examples Ex14 to Ex20, the step of forming a closed circuit by the conductive trace when the cover is in the active position includes:

[0138] An angle of less than 165 degrees is formed between the rear wall of the lid and the rear wall of the main body. Attached Figure Description

[0139] The example will now be described further with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0140] Figure 1 This is a simplified perspective view of the container according to the invention, with some elements removed and the container in the closed position;

[0141] Figure 2 for Figure 1 A simplified perspective view of the container, with some elements removed and the container in the active position;

[0142] Figure 3 For more details Figure 1 Or a perspective view of container 2 in the closed position;

[0143] Figure 4 and 5 Describing each in Figure 1 and 2 First and second cross-sectional views of a portion of the container in the location;

[0144] Figure 6 , 7 and 8 are Figures 1 to 3 Side views of the container in different positions;

[0145] Figure 9 , 10 11, 12 and 13 are used to implement Figures 1 to 3 A perspective view of the steps of the container method. Detailed Implementation

[0146] Figures 1 to 3 The container 10 according to the present invention is shown.

[0147] Container 10 has a cuboid shape and includes a box 14 and a lid 16. The box further includes a hinge 17 that allows the lid to rotate about it. Container 10 defines a rear wall 21, a front wall, a left side wall, a right side wall, a bottom wall 25, and a top wall 26.

[0148] Box 14 includes a front wall 31, a rear wall 32, a bottom wall (corresponding to the bottom wall 25 of the container), a left side wall 33, and a right side wall 34. Lid 16 includes a front wall 41, a rear wall 42, a top wall (corresponding to the top wall 26 of the container), a left side wall 43, and a left side wall 44. The rear wall 42 and the rear wall 32 form the rear wall 21 of container 10. Figure 1 and 3 In this position, the lid 16 covers the entrance opening of the container 10, and the wall of the lid 16 forms an extension of the corresponding wall of the box 14.

[0149] Additionally, container 10 defines an internal volume (not shown) containing, for example, a set of aerosol-generating articles (not shown). When package 10 is closed, lid 16 and box 18 define an opening line 19, which is a separation line between the lid portion and the box portion. Opening line 19 is a geometric continuation of hinge line 17. Opening line 19 is formed on the left side wall, right side wall, and front wall.

[0150] Container 10 is made of Figure 9 The sheet-like preform 100 depicted herein is formed. The sheet-like preform 100 includes a cellulose-based layer comprising a cellulose material. The preform 100 has a thickness of 101 (in... Figure 4 and 5 (as shown in the figure), the thickness preferably corresponds to the thickness of the rear wall 21 of the container 10.

[0151] The container 10 is formed by appropriately folding the sheet blank 100. The resulting container 10 can then be wrapped with an outer packaging material to form a finished product (not shown) to contain a consumable (not shown) as an aerosol-generating article.

[0152] refer to Figures 1 to 8 The hinge line 17 includes a weakening line 27 implemented in the rear wall 21. The weakening line 27 is part of the hinge line. The weakening line 27 is preferably an ablation line. Preferably, the weakening line 27 is a straight line. The rear wall 21 with the weakening line 27 is designed to have a minimum residual thickness 102 of 15% to about 40% of the thickness 101 of the blank 100 (in Figure 4 (As can be seen in the image), and the width of the weakening line 103 is between 0.1 mm and 1 mm. When container 10 is closed, i.e., as... Figure 1 , 3 As shown in Figures 4 and 6, the width 103 of the weakening line 27 is measured when the cover is in the closed position.

[0153] like Figure 4 As shown, the weakening line 27 defines the groove 28.

[0154] The lid 16 is hinged around a hinge line 17 extending across the rear wall 21 of the container 10, and can be in the closed position (e.g., in the...). Figure 1 and 3 (as shown in) and activity location (e.g. in) Figure 2 (As shown in the image) pivots between them. Cover 16 in its... Figure 1 and 3 The closed position moves to Figure 2 When in its active position, it rotates around the hinge line 17 and therefore around the weakening line 27.

[0155] In the closing constructor, such as Figure 6 As shown, the rear wall 42 of the lid and the rear wall 32 of the box are coplanar. Figure 6 As shown in the side view, this means that an angle 61 equal to 180 degrees is formed between the rear wall 42 of the lid and the rear wall 32 of the box.

[0156] When container 10 is in the active position, such as Figure 2 and 5 As shown, the width of the weakening line 27 becomes essentially zero.

[0157] In addition to the weakening line 27, the conductive trace 50 is formed on the rear wall 21 of the container 10. For example... Figure 3 As shown, conductive traces 50 form a circuit, which includes an energy source 51 (such as a battery) and an electrical load 52. Figure 3 As shown, the circuit formed by the conductive trace 50 is interrupted by the weakening line 27. The weakening line divides the circuit into a portion 55 implemented on the cover 16 and a portion 56 on the box 14. The weakening line 27 cuts the circuit at two points.

[0158] Therefore, when cover 16 is in Figure 1 , 3 When positions 4 and 6 are closed, line 27 weakens any possible current flow in interrupt circuit 50. This in Figure 4 As can be clearly seen in the magnified view, the two parts of the circuit, 55 and 56, are shown as being separated from each other by the weakening line 27.

[0159] If you now rotate cover 16, as... Figure 7 As shown, an angle 62, different from 180 degrees, is formed between the rear wall 42 of the lid and the rear wall 32 of the box. When this angle becomes equal to the first active angle, the lid 16 is said to be in the position as shown. Figure 2 , 5 In the active position of 7, and the two parts 55, 56 of the conductive trace 50 forming the circuit are in contact (see details). Figure 5 Circuit 50 is closed and load 52 can be energized by energy source 51.

[0160] Part 55 defines the leading edge 57 of the conductive trace 50, and part 56 defines the trailing edge 58 of the conductive trace. The trailing edge and leading edges 57 and 58 are portions of the conductive trace 50 that slope over the groove 28, and these portions partially enter the groove.

[0161] exist Figure 4 In the closed position, the two parts 55 and 56 of the circuit 50, particularly the front edge 57 and the tail edge 58, form a gap 104, which has a width 105 that is smaller than the width 103 of the weakening line.

[0162] When the cover 16 is rotated, the weakening line 27 is compressed and the width 103 decreases. Furthermore, the distance 105 between the two portions 55 and 56 of the conductive trace 50 is narrower than the width 103, as... Figure 5 As depicted, cover 16 is in the active position. The front edge 57 and the tail edge 58 contact each other, thereby closing gap 104. The presence of the front edge 57 and the tail edge 58 increases the contact between the first portion 55 and the second portion 56 of the circuit.

[0163] like Figure 8 As shown, the lid 16 can be further rotated about the weakening line to reach an open position, where the user can access the article contained in the container 10. In this open position, an angle 63 is formed between the rear wall 42 of the lid and the rear wall 32 of the box. Preferably, the angle 63 is smaller than the first active angle 62.

[0164] In the following text, see references Figures 9 to 13 The method of forming container 10 is described in detail. A blank 100 is provided. The blank 100 is known in the art and is made, for example, of cardboard (see [link to documentation]). Figure 9 A laser 65 is also provided. The laser 65 emits a laser beam 66 onto the blank 100. The laser beam 66 moves above the blank 100 to form an ablation line 27 of suitable size and depth (see...). Figure 10 Then, a print head 67 is provided. The print head 67 prints conductive traces 50 onto the blank. The shape of the conductive traces 50 is such that a circuit is formed (see...). Figure 11 and 12 Conductive traces 50 are also printed on the ablation lines 27. The ink forming the conductive traces 50 can be partially poured into the grooves 28 (see...). Figure 4 However, when the blank is flat and folded, the groove 28 interrupts the circuit 50.

[0165] After the circuit has been printed and preferably power source 51 and load 52 are provided (see again) Figure 12 The blank 100 is folded appropriately as is known in the art (see [reference]). Figure 13(partial folding) to form Figure 3 Container.

Claims

1. A hinged-lid container for consumable articles, the container defining an inner surface and an outer surface and comprising: A box for containing the consumable product; A lid, which is hinged to the box along a hinge and is movable about the hinge between a closed position and an open position; The hinge includes a weakening line implemented on the outer surface, the weakening line having a width of 0.1 mm to 1 mm; A conductive trace is disposed on the outer surface, and the weakening line passes through and interrupts the conductive trace; The conductive trace forms a closed circuit when the cover is in the active position, and forms an open circuit when the cover is in the closed position.

2. The container according to claim 1, wherein, The container is formed at least in part by folding blanks.

3. The container according to claim 2, wherein, The lid and the box are formed by folding a single sheet of material.

4. The container according to claim 3, wherein, The blank has a thickness between 200 micrometers and 400 micrometers.

5. The container according to claim 3, wherein, The preform includes preforms based on cellulose fibers.

6. The container of claim 1, comprising a rear wall having a thickness, wherein the weakening line is formed in the rear wall, and wherein the weakening line has a minimum residual thickness of less than 40% of the thickness of the rear wall of the container.

7. The container of claim 1, comprising an energy source and one or more of the following loads: light source; sensor; antenna; Heating element; Acoustic emitter; Furthermore, the conductive traces connect the energy source to the load when forming a closed circuit.

8. The container according to claim 1, wherein, The conductive trace has a weight between 1 g / m² and 50 g / m².

9. The container according to claim 1, wherein, The conductive trace has a width between 0.1 mm and 25 mm.

10. The container according to any one of claims 1-9, wherein, The conductive trace interrupted by the weakening line defines a gap through the leading edge and trailing edge of the conductive trace, the width of which is smaller than the width of the weakening line.

11. A method of forming a hinged lid container for consumable articles, the method comprising the steps of: A container blank is provided that defines an outer surface and an inner surface, wherein the container blank includes a box portion for forming a box and a lid portion for forming a lid; A weakening line is formed on the outer surface, the weakening line having a width of 0.1 mm to 1 mm, the weakening line forming a hinge for the cover so that the cover can move from a closed position to an open position on the box; Provide conductive traces on the outer surface, including providing the conductive traces across the weakened lines; The blank is folded to form the hinged lid container, wherein the conductive traces form a closed circuit when the lid is in the active position, and the conductive traces form an open circuit when the lid is in the closed position.

12. The method according to claim 11, wherein, The step of forming the weakening line on the outer surface includes: The outer surface is ablated.

13. The method according to claim 12, wherein, The steps of ablating the outer surface include: The outer surface is ablated by a laser.

14. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 13, comprising the following steps: The load is energized when the closed circuit is formed.

15. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 13, comprising the following steps: Provide an energy source for the hinged lid container.

16. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 13, wherein, The cover includes a rear wall and the box includes a rear wall, and wherein the step of forming a closed circuit by the conductive trace when the cover is in the active position includes: An angle of less than 165 degrees is formed between the rear wall of the cover and the rear wall of the box.

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