Package for sorting plurality of smoking articles

Abstract

A package for collating a plurality of smoking articles is disclosed. The package comprises: a substantially cubic pouch, where the pouch is formed from a wrapper folded and sealed by a plurality of fin seals to define the pouch; a separation element attached to the pouch and arranged to extend around the pouch in a transverse direction with respect to the length of the pouch wherein the separation element is configured to be pulled by a user to separate the upper section of the pouch from the lower section of the pouch; and a reinforcing element disposed within the pouch wherein the reinforcing element comprises a plurality of panels each arranged to rest substantially flush against an inner surface of the pouch, and wherein the plurality of panels comprise a second panel arranged adjacent a top minor portion of the pouch, the second panel co-extends only partially with the top secondary portion such that an upper opening is defined in the reinforcing element through which the smoking article can be extracted when the upper section of the pouch is separated from the lower section of the pouch.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a packaging box for organizing multiple smoking products, and a system comprising the packaging box and multiple smoking products contained therein. Background Technology

[0002] Smoking products (such as cigarettes or heated non-combustible aerosol-generating products) are typically stored in sealed boxes to prevent moisture from entering.

[0003] The most common type of packaging used for smoking products is called a hard pack. Hard packs typically consist of a resealable pouch (made of, for example, foil, paper, or plastic) that contains the smoking product. The pouch is housed within another container (such as a hinged flip-top box), which provides structural protection for the smoking product inside the pouch and allows the pack to be resealed after opening.

[0004] An alternative type of packaging is called a soft pack. Soft packs typically consist of a small paper pouch wrapped around the smoking product. An outer sleeve may also be wrapped around the pouch, on which the brand and other information may be printed. Because soft packs do not include a structural outer container, this means they cannot be resealed after opening, and the smoking product is more susceptible to damage during storage and transportation.

[0005] Whether rigid or flexible, a known problem with existing packaging for smoking products is their resistance to biodegradation and, consequently, their lack of sustainability. Specifically, because smoking products are required to remain sealed from the environment during storage, pouches are typically covered with a transparent plastic outer film or made of impermeable plastic or metal to prevent air or moisture from entering. For example, pouches are often made of plastic film or paper laminates containing barrier plastics, or laminates of plastic and metal. Such materials are non-biodegradable and difficult to recycle.

[0006] While it is important that the pouch is environmentally friendly, it is also desirable that the user can open it quickly and easily, allowing convenient access to smoking products once opened. Achieving this combination of characteristics is difficult using sustainable materials.

[0007] The purpose of this invention is to solve one or more of the problems associated with flexible packaging. Summary of the Invention

[0008] According to a first aspect of the invention, a packaging box for organizing multiple smoking products is provided, the packaging box comprising: a substantially cubic pouch, the pouch comprising: a front main portion; a rear main portion; a top secondary portion; a bottom secondary portion; a first side portion; and a second side portion, wherein the pouch is formed of wrapping paper folded and sealed by a plurality of finned seals to define the pouch; a separating element attached to the pouch and arranged to extend around the pouch in a transverse direction relative to the length of the pouch, wherein the separating element is configured to be pulled by a user to separate an upper section of the pouch from a lower section of the pouch; and a pouch disposed on the pouch. The reinforcing element includes a plurality of panels, each arranged substantially flush against the inner surface of the pouch, and wherein the plurality of panels includes at least: a first panel arranged adjacent to one of a front main portion, a rear main portion, a first side portion, and a second side portion of the pouch; and a second panel arranged adjacent to a top secondary portion of the pouch, wherein the second panel extends only partially with the top secondary portion to define an upper opening in the reinforcing element through which a smoking article can be removed when the upper section of the pouch is separated from the lower section of the pouch.

[0009] Thus, the present invention provides a soft-pack packaging box for smoking articles that prevents the smoking articles from falling out of the box after opening. Specifically, by positioning a reinforcing element with a top panel inside the pouch, the top panel covering the smoking articles, the smoking articles will not fall out of the box after the upper section of the pouch separates from the lower section. Since the top panel extends only partially with the top secondary portion of the pouch, the user keeps the smoking articles accessible through the upper opening defined by the top panel. Advantageously, the use of a shaped reinforcing element to prevent the smoking articles from falling out of the pouch provides a compact packaging box with high rigidity, thereby also preventing damage to the smoking articles contained within the packaging box, for example, due to compression deformation.

[0010] It should also be noted that using finned seals to seal the pouch ensures that the smoking product contained within the pouch is not compressed as it is sealed along each finned seal. In contrast, using overlap seals to seal the pouch will cause the smoking product contained within the pouch to be compressed as the pouch is sealed along the overlap seal pairs. A skilled technician will understand that using only finned seals to seal the pouch, for example, without using overlap seals, is preferable.

[0011] Technicians will understand that the length of the pouch is the vertical distance between the top secondary section and the bottom secondary section. This can also be referred to as the height of the pouch.

[0012] The front main part and the rear main part can also be referred to as the first main part and the second main part, respectively. The top secondary part and the bottom secondary part can also be referred to as the first primary part and the second primary part, respectively.

[0013] Those skilled in the art will understand that the upper section of the pouch includes at least a portion of the top secondary portion, the front main portion, the rear main portion, the first side portion, and the second side portion, and the lower section of the pouch includes at least a portion of the bottom secondary portion, the front main portion, the rear main portion, the first side portion, and the second side portion.

[0014] Preferably, the reinforcing element is a cellulose-based reinforcing element. For example, the reinforcing element may include paper, hemp, or molded cellulose pulp (or components thereof).

[0015] Preferably, the stiffening element has a higher stiffness than the pouch. For example, the stiffening element may have a density of 130 to 200 g / m².

[0016] Technicians will understand that multiple panels of a reinforcing element are interconnected; for example, a reinforcing element is a folded element. A reinforcing element can be formed from a single blank.

[0017] Preferably, the first panel is arranged adjacent to the main front portion of the pouch, and a cutout is formed in the first panel, wherein the cutout is positioned along the edge of the upper opening. This improves accessibility to the smoking product while maintaining the high rigidity of the packaging.

[0018] Preferably, the cut extends downwards to be flush with at least the lower edge of the separating element. This makes it easier to remove the smoking product from the pouch.

[0019] Preferably, the first panel is arranged adjacent to the front main portion of the pouch, and the plurality of panels further include: a third panel arranged adjacent to a first side portion of the pouch; and a fourth panel arranged adjacent to a second side portion of the pouch. In one example, the reinforcing element may consist of the first to fourth panels.

[0020] Preferably, the upper opening extends across 1 / 3 to 1 / 2 of the length of the top secondary portion of the pouch, for example, 1 / 3 to 1 / 2 of the distance between the third and fourth panels. For example, the upper opening may extend across 4 / 9 or 5 / 8 of the length of the top secondary portion of the pouch.

[0021] Preferably, the plurality of finned seals includes (or comprises) a first finned seal extending along the length of a front primary portion; a second finned seal extending along the length of a top secondary portion; and a third finned seal extending along the length of a bottom secondary portion.

[0022] It should be understood that the length of the front main part is the vertical distance between the top secondary part and the bottom secondary part, the length of the top secondary part is the vertical distance between the first side and the second side, and the length of the bottom secondary part is the vertical distance between the first side and the second side.

[0023] Preferably, the separating element is attached to the inner surface of the pouch and extends through one of the plurality of finned seals to expose a tab to be pulled by the user. More preferably, the separating element is attached to the inner surface of the pouch and extends through a first finned seal to expose a tab to be pulled by the user. In this way, the separating element is protected by the pouch from external environmental influences and ensures that the pouch is torn open when the separating element is pulled by the user. By guiding the separating element through one of the finned seals, the ease of manufacturability of the pouch is improved and its volume is reduced.

[0024] Preferably, the separating element is attached to the pouch such that a single layer of the separating element extends through one of the finned seals, such as the first finned seal. This further reduces the volume of the pouch.

[0025] Preferably, the separating element is a tear strip.

[0026] Preferably, the separating element comprises a cellulose-based or paper-based material. This reduces the environmental impact of the packaging box.

[0027] Preferably, the packaging box further includes an outer sleeve arranged to wrap around the pouch in a lateral direction. This allows text and images to be printed on the outer sleeve to convey information to the user. Due to the presence of the finned seal, the pouch itself may not be a suitable surface for printing information.

[0028] Preferably, the separating element is positioned above the outer sleeve. This keeps the separating element accessible to the user to open the pouch.

[0029] Preferably, the separating element extends along the front main portion, the first side, the rear main portion, and the second side of the pouch, adjacent to the top secondary portion of the pouch. Thus, after the pouch is opened, the smoking article is maximally constrained by the front main portion, the rear main portion, the first side, and the second side of the pouch. This configuration also means that the size of the outer sleeve can be maximized.

[0030] Preferably, the separating element extends (substantially) around the entire pouch.

[0031] Preferably, the wrapping paper comprises cellulose-based wrapping paper, and the pouch further comprises a moisture-proof coating formed on the cellulose-based wrapping paper. Thus, the pouch is constructed from sustainable materials that effectively seal and protect the smoking product contained within the pouch from the effects of the external environment.

[0032] For example, packaging paper may include paper, hemp, molded cellulose pulp, virgin fiber pulp, or tobacco dust with paper (or composed of the same).

[0033] Preferably, the moisture-proof coating is a heat-sealable coating (or heat-sealing adhesive). The heat-sealable coating (e.g., a thermoplastic film) is bonded to the packaging paper by applying pressure and heating the coating. The moisture-proof coating may comprise one or more layers or films. The moisture-proof coating may be a water-based paint. A water-based paint can serve as both a moisture-proof coating and a heat-sealable coating. Optionally, an additional heat-sealable coating may be applied on top of the moisture-proof coating. Advantageously, the additional heat-sealable coating can further improve the sealing strength. The additional heat-sealable coating may also be a sealant. In a less preferred option, the moisture-proof coating is a hot-melt adhesive, i.e., an adhesive applied in a molten state and forming a bond upon cooling to a solid state.

[0034] Preferably, the moisture-proof coating also reduces or prevents the entry (or transfer) of oxygen, air, flavorings and / or menthol.

[0035] Preferably, the pouch (i.e., the wrapping paper, the moisture-proof coating, and optionally an additional heat-sealable coating) can have a water vapor transmission rate of 0-10 g / m² / day (at 23°C, 50% RH) and an oxygen transmission rate of < 10 cc / m² / day (at 23°C, 50% RH). In one embodiment, the pouch can have a water vapor transmission rate of 2-10 g / m² / day (at 23°C, 50% RH).

[0036] Preferably, the thickness of the pouch (i.e., the wrapping paper, the moisture-proof coating, and optionally the heat-sealable coating) is 65 µm to 85 µm.

[0037] Preferably, the density of the pouch (i.e., wrapping paper, moisture-proof coating, and optionally an additional heat-sealable coating) is 50 to 92 g / m², more preferably 50 to 85 g / m².

[0038] In one example, the pouch thickness can be 75 µm, the pouch density can be 90 g / m², and the average water vapor transmission rate can be < 1 g / m² / day at 23°C and 50% RH. In another example, the pouch thickness can be 67 µm, the pouch density can be 75 g / m², and the average water vapor transmission rate can be < 1 g / m² / day at 23°C and 50% RH. In yet another example, the pouch thickness can be 65-85 µm, the pouch density can be 70 g / m², and the average water vapor transmission rate can be < 3 g / m² / day at 23°C and 50% RH. In yet another example, the pouch thickness can be 82 µm, the pouch density can be 75 g / m², and the average water vapor transmission rate can be < 8 g / m² / day at 23°C and 50% RH.

[0039] Preferably, a weakening line is formed in the pouch parallel to the separating element, such that when the user pulls the separating element, the pouch is configured to tear along the weakening line. This further increases the ease of opening the pouch.

[0040] Preferably, the weakening line is located above the outer sleeve. This ensures that the outer sleeve does not obstruct the opening of the pouch along the weakening line.

[0041] Preferably, the weakening line is (substantially) aligned with the lower edge of the separating element. In other words, the weakening line is (substantially) flush with the lower edge of the separating element. Alternatively, the weakening line may be located up to 3 mm below the lower edge of the separating element.

[0042] Preferably, the weakening line is formed in the inner surface of the pouch. This improves the ease of opening when the separation element is attached to the inner surface of the pouch. Alternatively, the weakening line can be formed in the outer surface of the pouch.

[0043] Preferably, the moisture-proof coating is formed on the inner surface of the pouch.

[0044] Preferably, the weakening line extends partially through the packaging paper (or pouch). This ensures the weakening line does not affect the seal between the pouch and the external environment. Preferably, the weakening line extends through less than 80% of the thickness of the packaging paper (or pouch), more preferably less than 70%, more preferably less than 60% and more than 20%, more preferably more than 30%, and more preferably more than 40%.

[0045] Preferably, the weakening line is a pre-cut line made, for example, by laser marking, mechanical indentation, or mechanical scoring. For example, the weakening line is preferably partially cut through the pouch (e.g., partially through the wrapping paper and completely through the moisture-proof coating and an additional heat-sealable coating, if present) to form a kiss-cut line.

[0046] Preferably, the pouch and / or reinforcing element do not include plastic film or metal. Specifically, the pouch and / or reinforcing element are not made of paper laminates that include plastic film or metal.

[0047] According to a second aspect of the invention, a system is provided, comprising: a packaging box according to the first aspect; and a plurality of smoking articles contained within the packaging box.

[0048] According to a third aspect of the invention, a kit is provided, comprising: a first blank configured to form a pouch of the first aspect; and a second blank configured to form a reinforcing element of the first aspect.

[0049] Preferably, the kit further includes a third blank configured to form the outer sleeve of the first aspect. Attached Figure Description

[0050] Embodiments of the invention will now be described by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0051] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a packaging box for smoking products, which includes a pouch and an outer sleeve;

[0052] Figure 2 It is a 3D image of only the small bag;

[0053] Figure 3A It is a cross-sectional view of the pouch including the wrapping paper and the moisture-proof coating formed thereon;

[0054] Figure 3B This is a cross-sectional view of a pouch that also includes an additional heat-sealable coating;

[0055] Figure 4 It is a three-dimensional view of the packaging box, including the small pouches that are partially open.

[0056] Figure 5 It is a three-dimensional view of the packaging box, including the small pouches in the open state;

[0057] Figure 6 It is a 3D diagram of the reinforcing components of the packaging box;

[0058] Figure 7 This is a schematic top view of a blank that can be used to form a small bag;

[0059] Figure 8 It is a schematic top view of a blank that can be used to form an outer sleeve; and

[0060] Figure 9 It is a schematic top view of a blank that can be used to form a reinforcing element. Detailed Implementation

[0061] Figure 1 A perspective view of a packaging box 10 for a smoking article 8 according to the present invention is shown. The packaging box 10 includes a pouch 100, an outer sleeve 50 surrounding the pouch 100, and a reinforcing element 80 disposed within the pouch 100. The reinforcing element 80 is... Figure 1 This is not visible in the text and will be discussed in more detail below.

[0062] The small bag 100 is cubic and includes a front main portion 110, a rear main portion 112, a top secondary portion 114, a bottom secondary portion 116, a first side portion 118 (e.g., the left side portion) and a second side portion 120 (e.g., the right side portion). Figure 2 The image shows the small bag 100 in more detail.

[0063] The pouch 100 is sized to store and organize multiple smoking products 8. That is, the height of the pouch 100 is substantially equal to the height of the smoking products 8, allowing the smoking products 8 to be securely held within the pouch 100. In one example, the smoking product 8 may be a cigarette. In other examples, the smoking product 8 may be a heatable aerosol-generating product, such as a heated non-combustible rod for use in an electrically heated device.

[0064] The small bag 100 includes wrapping paper 122, on which a moisture-proof coating 124 is formed (e.g., ...). Figure 3A (As shown). The moisture-proof coating 124 is a heat-sealable coating. Optionally, the wrapping paper 122 may also have an additional heat-sealable coating 125 (as shown) formed on the side of the moisture-proof coating 124 opposite to the wrapping paper 122. Figure 3B(As shown). The pouch 100 has an outer surface 126 and an inner surface 128, and is folded and sealed to form a substantially cubic pouch 100. Specifically, the pouch 100 is sealed by a first finned seal 104 extending along the length of the front main portion 110 of the pouch 100, a second finned seal 106 extending along the length of the top secondary portion 114 of the pouch 100, and a third finned seal 108 extending along the length of the bottom secondary portion of the pouch 100. Those skilled in the art will understand that the finned seal is a seal formed by sealing the edge portion of the inner surface 128 of the wrapping paper 122 to another edge portion of the inner surface 128 of the wrapping paper 122. In contrast, for example, an overlap seal is formed by sealing the edge portion of the inner surface of the wrapping paper to the edge portion of the outer surface of the wrapping paper. Advantageously, unlike an overlap seal, the finned seal prevents the smoking article 8 contained in the wrapping paper 122 from being compressed during sealing.

[0065] Those skilled in the art will understand that the arrangement of the finned seals can vary. For example, in an alternative embodiment, the pouch 100 may be sealed by finned seals extending along a first side 118, a top secondary portion 114, and a bottom secondary portion 116 of the pouch 100.

[0066] The tear strip 34 is attached to and extends around the pouch 100. In this embodiment, the tear strip 100 is attached to the inner surface 128 of the pouch 100, but those skilled in the art will understand that in alternative embodiments, the tear strip 34 may instead be attached to the outer surface 126 of the pouch 100.

[0067] The tear strip 34 (also referred to as a tear tape) is a strip of material adhesively attached to the pouch 100. The tear strip 34 can be pulled by a user to open the pouch 100. Specifically, the tear strip 34 is stronger than the pouch 100, such that when pulled, the pouch 100 is torn along the length of the tear strip 34. The tear strip 34 can be made of (e.g., oriented) polymers, yarns, and filaments, but is preferably made of cellulose-based materials such as paper. It should be understood that, in alternative embodiments, the tear strip 34 can be replaced with another type of separation element.

[0068] The tear strip 34 extends in the lateral direction around substantially the entire circumference of the pouch 100. That is, the tear strip 34 extends around the front main portion 110, the first side portion 118, the rear main portion 112, and the second side portion 120 of the pouch 100 in a direction perpendicular to the length of the pouch 100. However, in alternative embodiments, those skilled in the art will understand that the tear strip 34 may extend only around a portion of the circumference of the pouch 100, for example, at least 90% of the circumference of the pouch 100.

[0069] The tear strip 34 is arranged to extend through the first fin seal 104 of the front main portion 112 of the pouch 100 to expose the tear tab 35 of the tear strip 34, which can be pulled by the user. Advantageously, this improves the ease of manufacturability of the pouch 100. The tear strip 34 is preferably attached to the pouch 100 such that only a single layer of the tear strip 34 protrudes through the first fin seal 104, thereby reducing the volume of the pouch 100. In one example, a pair of slits may be formed on both sides of the tear tab 35 in the first fin seal 104 to further improve the ease of tearing.

[0070] Weakening lines 64 are formed in the inner surface 128 of the pouch 100, but for illustrative purposes, they are not shown. Figure 2 The weakening line is shown in the diagram. When a user pulls the tear strip 34, the weakening line 64 allows the pouch 100 to be easily torn along the weakening line 64. In one example, the weakening line 64 may include a dent, cut, or notch. The weakening line 64 may be formed by laser marking, mechanical cutting, or indentation of the wrapping paper 122 and the moisture-proof coating 124 (and an additional heat-sealing coating 125, if present)). The weakening line 64 extends partially through the pouch 100 (e.g., partially through the wrapping paper 122 and completely through the moisture-proof coating 124 and the additional heat-sealing coating 125, if present)). This form of weakening line may be referred to as a kiss-cut line. Advantageously, because the weakening line 64 does not extend all the way through the pouch 100, the pouch 100 remains sealed to the external environment. In another example, the weakening line 64 may include a chemically, radiation-, or mechanically weakened portion. Those skilled in the art will understand that, in alternative embodiments, the weakening lines may instead be formed in the outer surface 126 of the pouch 100.

[0071] The weakening line 64 is aligned adjacent to the bottom edge 36 of the tear strip 100, such that applying tension to the tear strip 34 causes the pouch 100 to be separated along the weakening line 64. Specifically, the weakening line 64 extends around the pouch 100, for example, along the front main portion 110, the first side portion 118, the rear main portion 112, and the second side portion 120 of the pouch 100 in a length perpendicular to the pouch 100. Ideally, the weakening line 64 is flush with the bottom edge 36 of the tear strip 34. However, the weakening line 64 may be slightly lower than the tear strip 34. Specifically, the weakening line 64 may be up to 3 mm below the bottom edge 36 of the tear strip 34, while allowing the pouch 100 to be reliably opened along the weakening line 64.

[0072] An outer sleeve 50 surrounds the outer surface 126 of the pouch 100. That is, the outer sleeve 50 extends in a direction perpendicular to the length of the pouch 100, surrounding the front main portion 110, the first side portion 118, the rear main portion 112, and the second side portion 120. The outer sleeve 50 does not cover the top secondary portion 114 or the bottom secondary portion 116 of the pouch 100. The outer sleeve 50 can be used as a surface on which text, images, or other representations can be printed to provide information to the user. This is particularly advantageous in the context of finned-sealed packaging, as the finned seal prevents any information printed on the outer surface 126 of the pouch 100 from being affected in terms of readability.

[0073] The size of the outer sleeve 50 is determined, and the outer sleeve is arranged such that the tear strip 34 is located above the outer sleeve 50, for example, the upper edge of the outer sleeve 50 is flush with or below the bottom edge 36 (or weakening line 64) of the tear strip 34. More specifically, the weakening line 64 or bottom edge 36 of the tear strip 34 is positioned above the upper edge of the outer sleeve 50, preferably at a distance of less than 1 mm, more preferably between 0.1 mm and 1 mm. This means that the outer sleeve 50 will not obstruct the user from pulling the tear strip 34 to open the pouch 100. To maximize the display of information printed on the outer sleeve 50, it is advantageous for the outer sleeve 50 to cover as much area as possible. Accordingly, the tear strip 34 is preferably arranged adjacent to the top secondary portion 114 of the pouch 100, i.e., the tear strip 34 is adjacent to the top secondary portion 114. This means that, except for the area of ​​pouch 100 attached to the tear strip 34, the outer sleeve 50 can extend substantially across the entire area of ​​the front main portion 110, the first side portion 118, the rear main portion 112, and the second side portion 120 of pouch 100. This arrangement also means that, after pouch 100 is opened, the smoking article 8 inside pouch 100 remains confined by the maximum dimension wall of pouch 100.

[0074] Figure 3A A cross-sectional view of the wrapping paper 122 forming the pouch 100 and the moisture-proof coating 124 is shown. As shown, a tear strip 34 is attached to the inner surface 128 of the pouch 100, and a weakening line 64 is formed on the inner surface 128 of the pouch. The moisture-proof coating 124 is formed on (or forms the inner surface of) the pouch 100. The weakening line 64 completely penetrates the moisture-proof coating 124 and partially penetrates the wrapping paper 122.

[0075] In this case, the moisture-proof coating 124 is a heat-sealable coating or film. For example, the moisture-proof coating 124 may be a water-based paint exhibiting both moisture-proof and heat-sealable properties. In another example, the moisture-proof coating 124 may be a hot-melt adhesive.

[0076] Figure 3B A cross-sectional view of a pouch 100 in an alternative embodiment is shown, wherein the pouch 100 further includes an additional heat-sealable coating 125 (e.g., heat-sealing varnish) formed on the surface of the moisture-proof coating 124 opposite to the wrapping paper 122. That is, the additional heat-sealable coating 125 is formed on (or forms) the inner surface 128 of the pouch 100. Advantageously, the additional heat-sealable coating 125 can further improve the sealing strength. In this example, the weakening line 64 completely penetrates the moisture-proof coating 124 and the additional heat-sealable coating 125 and partially penetrates the wrapping paper 122.

[0077] The thickness of the pouch 100 (i.e., the wrapping paper 122, the moisture-proof coating 124, and the optional heat-sealable coating 125) can be 65 to 85 micrometers. The density of the pouch 100 (i.e., the wrapping paper 122, the moisture-proof coating 124, and the optional heat-sealable coating 125) can be 50 to 92 g / m². For example, the density of the pouch 100 can be 50 to 85 g / m².

[0078] The wrapping paper 122 is made from cellulose-based materials such as paper, hemp, molded cellulose pulp, virgin cellulose pulp, or tobacco dust with paper. A moisture-proof coating 124 prevents moisture from entering through the wrapping paper 122, thereby protecting the smoking product 8 contained within the pouch 100. Advantageously, by using cellulose-based wrapping paper 122 with a moisture-proof coating 124, the biodegradability and sustainability of the packaging box 10 are improved without compromising the sealing quality, as opposed to wrapping paper containing plastic or metal. In particular, the recycling capacity of the entire paper recycling stream of the packaging box 10 can be improved; note that the recycling capacity of previous packaging boxes was typically limited by the presence of non-recyclable wrapping paper.

[0079] The moisture-proof coating 124 can also reduce or prevent the transfer of oxygen, air, flavorings and / or menthol through the pouch 100.

[0080] Due to the properties of the finned seal and the moisture-proof coating 124, the pouch 100 (i.e., the wrapping paper 122, the moisture-proof coating 124, and the optionally added heat-sealing coating 125) can have a water vapor transmission rate of 0-10 g / m² / day (at 23°C, 50% RH) and an oxygen transmission rate of < 10 cc / m² / day (at 23°C, 50% RH). For example, the pouch 100 can have a water vapor transmission rate of 2-10 g / m² / day (at 23°C, 50% RH).

[0081] The wrapping paper 122, the moisture-proof coating 124, and the optionally additional heat-sealing coating 125 (i.e., blank 130, which is discussed further below) can be manufactured using flexographic or gravure printing.

[0082] Exemplary material specifications for pouch 100 are provided in the table below:

[0083]

[0084] Figure 4 This is a perspective view of the packaging box 10, showing the pouch 100 in a semi-open state. That is, it shows the pouch 100 during the process of the user pulling the tear strip 34 to open the pouch 100.

[0085] Figure 5 This is another perspective view of the packaging box 10, showing the pouch 100 in the open state. Here, the user has pulled the tear strip 34 around the front main portion 110, the first side portion 118, the rear main portion 112, and the second side portion 120, causing the upper section 38 of the pouch 38 to separate from the lower section 40 of the pouch 100. The upper section 38 includes: a top secondary portion 114; and a portion of each of the front main portion 110, the first side portion 118, the rear main portion 112, and the second side portion 120. The lower section 40 includes: a bottom secondary portion 116; and a portion of each of the front main portion 110, the first side portion 118, the rear main portion 112, and the second side portion 120. After the upper section 38 separates from the lower section 40, the smoking product 8 is exposed for the user to remove.

[0086] As in Figure 5 As can be seen, when the pouch 100 is opened, the reinforcing element 80 is also exposed. The reinforcing element 80 is a folding element located between the pouch 100 and the smoking article 8 contained within the pouch 100. The reinforcing element 80 is configured to flush against the inner surface 128 of the pouch 100.

[0087] Figure 6 The reinforcing element 80 is shown in further detail. The reinforcing element 80 includes (or optionally comprises) a first panel 82 (e.g., a front panel), a second panel 84 (e.g., a top panel), a third panel 86 (e.g., a left panel), and a fourth panel 88 (e.g., a right panel). Panels 82-88 are connected around multiple fold lines to define a three-dimensional structure.

[0088] In use, the reinforcing element 80 is arranged between the pouch 100 and the smoking article 8, such that the first panel 82, the second panel 84, the third panel 86, and the fourth panel 88 are arranged adjacent (i.e., mating) to the front main portion 110, the top secondary portion 114, the first side portion 118, and the second side portion 120 of the pouch 100, respectively. Advantageously, the presence of the reinforcing element 80 increases the rigidity of the packaging box 10, thereby further enhancing the protection and support for the smoking article 8 contained in the pouch 100.

[0089] The height of the reinforcing element 80, specifically the heights of the first panel 82, the third panel 86, and the fourth panel 88, is equal to the height of the pouch 100. This arrangement provides optimal protection and support for the smoking product 8 contained within the pouch 100.

[0090] The second panel 84 acts as a barrier or lid, preventing the smoking product 8 from falling out of the pouch 100 after the user opens it. This is advantageous because the packaging box 10 is a soft pack that does not include a closable outer container (e.g., a hinged flip-top box). The second panel 84 is arranged to define an upper opening 92 (also referred to as a gap) in the reinforcing element 80 through which the smoking product 8 can be removed from the pouch 100. That is, the second panel 84 is configured to extend only partially with the top secondary portion 114 of the pouch 100 when the reinforcing element 80 is inside the pouch 10. This means that the area of ​​the second panel 84 is smaller than the area of ​​the top secondary portion 114, thereby defining the upper opening 92 through which the user can grasp and remove the smoking product 8 when the upper section 38 of the pouch 100 is removed from the lower section 40 of the pouch 100. Therefore, it should be understood that in use, the second panel 84 only covers a portion of the multiple smoking articles 8 contained in the pouch 100, that is, the smoking articles 8 positioned away from the upper opening 92 are reliably prevented from falling out of the pouch 100 only by means of the second panel 84.

[0091] The size of the second panel 84 can be selected to provide an optimal balance between preventing the smoking product 8 from falling out of the pouch 100 on the one hand and allowing the user to easily remove the smoking product 8 through the upper opening 92 on the other. As the relative size of the second panel 84 increases (i.e., the size of the upper opening 92 decreases), it more reliably prevents the smoking product 8 from falling out of the pouch 100, but the ease with which the user removes the smoking product 8 from the pouch 100 decreases, and vice versa.

[0092] In the depicted embodiment, the upper opening 92 is arranged only adjacent to the first panel 82 and the third panel 86, and the top panel 84 is arranged only adjacent to the first panel 82 and the fourth panel 88. In other words, the upper opening 92 is positioned such that the second panel 84 and the first panel 82 do not intersect. However, it should be understood that in alternative embodiments, the position of the upper opening 92 may vary.

[0093] In one example, the second panel 84 may extend across up to 5 / 9 of the distance between the third panel 86 and the fourth panel 86. In other examples, the second panel 84 may extend across 1 / 2 to 2 / 3 of the distance between the third panel 86 and the fourth panel 86.

[0094] A cutout 90 is formed in the first panel 82 of the reinforcing element 80 adjacent to the upper opening 92. That is, a portion of material is removed along the (free) top edge of the first panel 82, along the edge of the upper opening 92, to form the cutout 90. The cutout 90 may also be referred to as a recess (e.g., relative to the horizontal plane of the second panel 84).

[0095] The cut 90 is configured such that when the reinforcing element 80 is inside the pouch 100, the cut 90 extends downwards to be flush with at least the bottom edge 36 of the tear strip 34 and / or the weakening line 64. Thus, when the tear strip 34 is pulled to open the pouch 100, the smoking article 8 is further exposed through the cut 90, allowing the user to easily grasp and remove the smoking article 8 without significantly reducing the rigidity of the packaging box 10. Preferably, the cut 90 extends below the second panel 84 of the reinforcing element 80 to a distance of 10% to 30% of the height of the first panel 82 of the reinforcing element 80.

[0096] Although in the above embodiments, the reinforcing element 80 consists of a first panel 82, a second panel 84, a third panel 86, and a fourth panel 88, those skilled in the art will understand that the configuration of the reinforcing element 80 can vary. In one example, the reinforcing element 80 may consist of a first panel 82, a second panel 84, and a third panel 86. In another example, the reinforcing element 80 may consist of a first panel 82 and a second panel 84. In yet another example, the reinforcing element 80 may include (or optionally consist of) a first panel 82, a second panel 84, a third panel 86, and a fifth panel opposite the first panel 82 and configured to abut against the rear main portion 112 of the pouch 100 in use. It should also be understood that the position of the cut 90 can vary; for example, the cut 90 may be located in the top edge of any other panel, along the edge of the upper opening 92.

[0097] The reinforcing element 80 can be made of a cellulose-based material, such as paper, hemp, or molded cellulose pulp. Advantageously, the stiffness of the reinforcing element 80 can be higher than that of the pouch 100. For example, the reinforcing element 82 can have a density of 130 to 200 g / m².

[0098] The pouch 100 can be formed from a blank 130 including wrapping paper 122 and a moisture-proof coating 124 (and in some embodiments, an additional heat-sealable coating 125). Figure 7 The blank 130 is shown in the image.

[0099] The blank 130 includes a plurality of panels 132-152 separated by fold lines. The plurality of panels 132-152 includes a first front panel 132 and a second front panel 134 of the blank for cooperatively forming the front main portion 110 of the pouch 100. The plurality of panels 132-152 further includes a rear panel 136 of the blank for forming the rear main portion 112 of the pouch. The plurality of panels 132-152 further includes a first top panel 138, a second top panel 140, and a third top panel 142 of the blank for cooperatively forming the top secondary portion 114 of the pouch 100. The plurality of panels 132-152 further includes a first bottom panel 144, a second bottom panel 146, and a third bottom panel 148 of the blank for cooperatively forming the bottom secondary portion 116 of the pouch 100. The plurality of panels 132-152 further include a blank first side panel 150 and a blank second side panel 152 for forming a first side portion 118 and a second side portion 120 of the pouch 100, respectively.

[0100] The blank 130 includes a first longitudinal fin tab 154 and a second longitudinal fin tab 156 forming the boundary (i.e., edge portion) of the blank 130, a top transverse fin tab 158 and a bottom transverse fin tab 160.

[0101] The blank 130 (and therefore also panels 132-152 and tabs 154-160) can be described as having two surfaces: an outer surface and an opposite inner surface. When formed, the outer surface 126 of the pouch 100 corresponds to the outer surface of the blank 130, and the inner surface 128 of the pouch 100 corresponds to the inner surface of the blank 130. A moisture-proof coating 124, or optionally a moisture-proof coating 124 and an additional heat-sealing coating 125, is formed on the inner surface of the blank 130. If the additional heat-sealing coating 125 is present, it may be formed only on the first longitudinal fin tab 154, the second longitudinal fin tab 156, the top transverse fin tab 158, and the bottom transverse fin tab 160.

[0102] The tear strip 34 is attached to the inner surface of the blank 130 and extends in a straight line across the second longitudinal fin protrusion 156, the first front panel 132 of the blank, the second side panel 152 of the blank, the rear panel 136 of the blank, the first side panel 150 of the blank, the second front panel 134 of the blank, and the first longitudinal fin protrusion 154. Advantageously, the tear strip 34 extends only on one of the first longitudinal fin protrusion 154 and the second longitudinal fin protrusion 156. In this way, when constructing the pouch 100, only a single layer of tear strip 34 extends through the first fin seal 104, thereby reducing the volume of the pouch 100.

[0103] Weakening lines 64 are formed on the inner surface of blank 130 and extend parallel to and adjacent to the bottom edge 36 of tear strip 34 as described above.

[0104] To form the pouch 100 from the blank 130, each of the panels 132-152 and tabs 154-160 is folded around its respective fold lines, which connect these panels and tabs to the other panels 132-152 and tabs 154-160 of the blank 130. Each of the panels 132-152 and tabs 154-160 is folded approximately 90 degrees around its respective fold line. A first longitudinal fin tab 154 is sealed along its inner surface to a second longitudinal fin tab 156, thereby forming a first fin seal 104. A top transverse fin tab 158 is sealed along its inner surface to itself, thereby forming a second fin seal 106. A bottom transverse fin tab 160 is sealed along its inner surface to itself, thereby forming a third fin seal 108. Each fin seal 104-108 can be sealed using a suitable adhesive.

[0105] In the assembled small bag 100, for example... Figure 2 As shown, the first fin seal 104, the second fin seal 106, and the third fin seal 108 are typically folded against (e.g., arranged to rest substantially flat against) the front main portion 110, the top secondary portion 114, and the bottom secondary portion 116 of the pouch 100, respectively. The first fin seal 104 is typically folded against the front main portion 110 before sealing the second fin seal 106 and the third fin seal 108.

[0106] Finned seals 104-108 effectively seal the pouch 100 against the external environment. The smoking product 8 can be supplied into the pouch 100 before or during the folding and sealing process.

[0107] Once the pouch 100 has been formed from the blank 130, the tear strip 35 of the tear strip 34 is arranged to protrude through the first fin seal 104 so that it can be pulled by the user.

[0108] Figure 8A blank 190 is shown that can be used to form an outer sleeve 50. The blank 190 includes a plurality of panels 192-199 separated by fold lines. These panels 192-199 include a front panel 192, a rear panel 194, a first side panel 196, a second side panel 198, and a sealable panel 199. To form the outer sleeve 50 from the blank 190, each of the panels 192-199 is folded around a corresponding fold line that connects them to the other panels 192-199 of the blank 190. Each of the panels 192-199 is folded approximately 90 degrees around its corresponding fold line. The sealable panel 199 is sealed to the second side panel 198 using a suitable adhesive. This forms a three-dimensional sleeve structure that can be arranged to surround a pouch 100 and abut against the outer surface 126 of the pouch 100. Specifically, the front panel 192 of the blank is mated with the front main part 110 of the small bag 100, the rear panel 194 of the blank is mated with the rear main part 112 of the small bag 100, the first side panel 196 of the blank is mated with the first side 118 of the small bag 100, and the second side panel 198 (or sealable panel 199) of the blank is mated with the second side 120 of the small bag 100.

[0109] Figure 9 A blank 200 for forming the reinforcing element 80 is shown. The blank 200 includes a plurality of panels 202-210 separated by fold lines. These panels include a blank first panel 202 for forming a first panel 82 of the reinforcing element 80, a blank second panel 204 for forming a second panel 84 of the reinforcing element 80, and a blank third panel 206 for forming a third panel 86 of the reinforcing element 80. The blank 200 also includes a blank fourth panel 208 and a blank fifth panel 210 for cooperatively forming a fourth panel 88 of the reinforcing element 80. To form the reinforcing element 80, each of the panels 202-210 is folded around a corresponding fold line that connects these panels to the other panels 202-210 of the blank 200. Each of the panels 202-210 is folded approximately 90 degrees around its corresponding fold line. It should be noted that the fourth panel 208 and the fifth panel 210 of the blank are separated by a cutting line, so that the fourth panel 208 and the fifth panel 210 of the blank overlap when folded along the fold line.

[0110] A cut 90 is formed in the first panel 202 of the blank between the third panel 206 and the second panel 204 of the blank.

Claims

1. A packaging box for organizing multiple smoking products, the packaging box comprising: The pouch is essentially a cubical shape and includes: a front main portion; a rear main portion; a top secondary portion; a bottom secondary portion; a first side portion; and a second side portion, wherein the pouch is formed of wrapping paper, which is folded and sealed by a plurality of finned seals to define the pouch; A separating element, attached to the pouch and arranged to extend around the pouch in a lateral direction relative to its length, wherein the separating element is configured to be pulled by a user to separate the upper section of the pouch from the lower section of the pouch; and A reinforcing element disposed within the pouch includes a plurality of panels, each arranged substantially flush against the inner surface of the pouch, and wherein the plurality of panels comprises at least: A first panel, arranged adjacent to one of the front main portion, the rear main portion, the first side portion, and the second side portion of the pouch; and A second panel is arranged adjacent to the top secondary portion of the pouch, wherein the second panel extends only partially with the top secondary portion, thereby defining an upper opening in the reinforcing element through which the smoking product can be removed when the upper section of the pouch is separated from the lower section of the pouch.

2. The packaging box as described in claim 1, wherein, The first panel is arranged adjacent to the front main portion of the pouch, wherein a cut is formed in the first panel, and wherein the cut is positioned along the edge of the upper opening.

3. The packaging box as described in claim 2, wherein, The cut extends downwards to be flush with at least the lower edge of the separating element.

4. The packaging box as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein, The first panel is arranged adjacent to the front main portion of the pouch, and wherein the plurality of panels further includes: a third panel arranged adjacent to a first side portion of the pouch; and a fourth panel arranged adjacent to a second side portion of the pouch.

5. The packaging box as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein, The multiple finned seals include: A first fin seal extending along the length of the front main portion; a second fin seal extending along the length of the top secondary portion; and a third fin seal extending along the length of the bottom secondary portion.

6. The packaging box as described in any of the preceding claims, further comprising: An outer sleeve is arranged to wrap around the small bag in the lateral direction.

7. The packaging box as described in claim 6, wherein, The separation element is positioned above the outer sleeve.

8. The packaging box as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein, The separating element extends along the front main portion, the first side portion, the rear main portion, and the second side portion of the pouch, adjacent to the top secondary portion of the pouch.

9. The packaging box as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein, A weakening line is formed parallel to the separating element in the pouch, such that when the user pulls the separating element, the pouch is configured to tear along the weakening line.

10. The packaging box as claimed in claim 9, wherein, when the claim is subordinate to claim 6 or claim 7, The weakening line is located above the outer sleeve.

11. The packaging box as claimed in claim 9 or claim 10, wherein, The weakening line is essentially aligned with the lower edge of the separating element.

12. The packaging box as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein, The tear strip is attached to the inner surface of the pouch and extends through one of the multiple finned seals to expose the tear strip to be pulled by the user.

13. The packaging box as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein, The packaging paper includes cellulose-based packaging paper, and the pouch further includes a moisture-proof coating formed on the cellulose-based packaging paper.

14. The packaging box as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein, The separating element is a tear strip.

15. A system comprising: Packaging box according to any of the preceding claims; as well as Multiple smoking products contained within the packaging box.

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