Packaging with two hermetically isolated compartments

Abstract

A package (1) for a rod-shaped consumable article, the package comprising a first and a second shell portion (11, 12) and an inner divider portion (45), wherein: each of the first and second shell portions comprises a recessed tray having an outwardly extending peripheral flange (211, 212); the inner divider portion comprises a sheet of material having an outwardly extending peripheral flange (245); wherein the inner divider portion is disposed between the first and second shell portions with the peripheral flange of the inner divider portion sandwiched between the peripheral flanges of the first and second shell portions; such that the package defines a first storage volume between the inner divider portion and the first shell portion and a second storage volume between the inner divider portion and the second shell portion, the first and second storage volumes being hermetically isolated from one another by the inner divider portion; wherein at least one of the first and second shell portions is provided with a hinge portion (32) extending across the recessed tray, such that a first portion of the respective shell portion is movable relative to a second portion of the respective shell portion about the hinge portion, thereby permitting access to the first or second storage volume.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a packaging for bar-shaped consumable articles, and a method for packaging bar-shaped consumable articles. Background Technology

[0002] Packaging for bar-shaped consumables (such as cigarettes, mini cigars, cigars, and heat-not-burn aerosol-generated consumables) is typically based on a generally rectangular box comprising several complex sections made of different types of materials. Examples of such materials include polymer laminates, polymer metallized laminates, and multi-layered paper-based materials. These materials can be expensive, and packaging made from them can be complex, resulting in greater complexity and industrial space requirements in the final product manufacturing process.

[0003] Packaging for bar-shaped consumable products is designed to convey product information and protect the consumables inside from physical damage caused by bending or compression. The packaging should also provide a barrier against damage caused by exposure to ambient air and changes in the product's moisture content.

[0004] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a known package 100 for a strip of consumable articles is shown. Package 100 includes a cardboard box 110 with a polymer film outer covering (e.g., biaxially oriented polypropylene—BOPP). The cardboard box 110 has an inner liner 116 for holding a bundle of consumables. The inner liner 116 may be formed of metallized paper, providing a barrier layer to prevent oxygen ingress and to prevent changes in the moisture content of the consumables. The cardboard box 110 is configured to be integral with a hinged lid 117. The polymer film outer covering is configured to help maintain the freshness of the consumables before the package 100 is first opened.

[0005] Overall, the current packaging of bar-shaped consumable products is the result of decades of luxurious and colorful paper packaging, which does not meet current consumer expectations, social and environmental trends, or sustainability requirements. Summary of the Invention

[0006] According to a first aspect of the invention, a package for a strip-shaped consumable article is provided, the package comprising a first shell portion, a second shell portion, and an internal divider portion, wherein:

[0007] Each of the first shell portion and the second shell portion includes a recessed tray having an outwardly extending peripheral flange;

[0008] The internal partition portion includes a sheet of material with an outwardly extending peripheral flange;

[0009] The internal partition portion is disposed between the first shell portion and the second shell portion, and the peripheral flange of the internal partition portion is sandwiched between the peripheral flange of the first shell portion and the peripheral flange of the second shell portion.

[0010] The packaging defines a first storage volume between the internal partition portion and the first shell portion and a second storage volume between the internal partition portion and the second shell portion, the first storage volume and the second storage volume being airtightly isolated from each other by the internal partition portion.

[0011] Embodiments of the present invention provide a structural package for bar-shaped consumable articles, comprising a first independent storage volume and a second independent storage volume. When the package is closed, the first and second storage volumes are substantially airtightly isolated from each other. It is possible to open the first storage volume while maintaining the airtight seal of the second storage volume. In this way, when the consumable articles are removed from the first storage volume, the consumable articles in the second storage volume will be kept as fresh as possible. When the consumable articles in the first storage volume have been emptied, the user can then open the second storage volume to access the consumable articles stored therein.

[0012] When fully assembled, the interior of the package defines two separate storage volumes, thus holding two separate sets of strip products.

[0013] This packaging allows for the sequential consumption of the bar-shaped products stored within. The packaging provides two airtight storage volumes. The second storage volume remains in its factory-sealed configuration while the contents of the first storage volume are consumed. This helps maintain the freshness of the contents of the second storage volume even if the first storage volume has been opened.

[0014] One of the storage volumes can be used as a container for used bar consumables, while new bar consumables are stored in another storage volume.

[0015] One edge of the first shell portion can be connected along a fold line to the corresponding edge of the second shell portion. Therefore, the first and second shell portions can be folded together around the fold line to sandwich the internal partition portion between the first and second shell portions.

[0016] The recessed trays of each shell section can be formed by embossing or molding processes.

[0017] At least one of the first shell portion and the second shell portion may be provided with a hinge portion extending across the recessed tray, such that the first portion of the respective shell portion can move about the hinge portion relative to the second portion of the respective shell portion, thereby allowing access to the first storage volume or the second storage volume.

[0018] In an embodiment where one edge of the first shell portion connects to a corresponding edge of the second shell portion along a fold line, one or more hinge portions may be substantially parallel to the fold line.

[0019] The hinge portion can be configured such that the surface area of ​​the recessed tray in the first part of the corresponding shell portion is between 25% and 100% of the surface area of ​​the recessed tray in the second part of the corresponding shell portion, preferably between 50% and 100%, and more preferably between 75% and 100%.

[0020] In this manner, it is possible to access the first storage volume by moving a first portion of the first shell portion about a hinge portion of the first shell portion. It is also possible to access the second storage volume by moving a first portion of the second shell portion about a hinge portion of the second shell portion. By keeping the respective first shell portions and the second portions of the second shell portions connected to each other and to the internal divider portion, it is possible to prevent undesirable spillage of consumable articles from the packaging, because even when the respective first portions of the first or second shell portions move about the hinge portion to an open position to allow access to the consumable articles within the storage volume, the consumable articles will still remain along a portion of their length between the respective second portions of the first and second shell portions and the internal divider portion.

[0021] The portion of the peripheral flange of the first or second shell portion extending from the first part of the respective shell portion can be adhered to the peripheral flange of the inner partition portion using a resealable adhesive. This allows the first part of the respective shell portion to be resealed to the peripheral flange of the inner partition portion after the storage volume has been approached, when the first part of the respective shell portion is moved back to the closed position. In this way, the respective storage volume can be hermetically sealed again after being opened for access.

[0022] The portion of the peripheral flange of the first or second shell portion extending from the second portion of the respective shell portion can be adhered to the peripheral flange of the internal partition portion by a permanent adhesive. The use of a permanent adhesive helps to prevent the respective second portions of the first and second shell portions from undesirably separating from each other, and from the peripheral flange of the internal partition portion.

[0023] The hinge portion may be provided with an inner frame strip that engages with a second portion of the corresponding shell portion. The inner frame strip provides structural stiffness to the corresponding shell portion at the hinge portion. As the first portion of the corresponding shell portion moves about the hinge line, the inner frame strip may protrude from the second portion of the corresponding shell portion.

[0024] The inner frame strip may have a first end portion and a second end portion that are opposite portions of the peripheral flanges of the corresponding shell portions.

[0025] The material sheet of the internal partition can be formed with parallel corrugations, each corrugation being sized and shaped to receive strip-shaped articles. In this way, each of the first and second storage volumes can be formed with multiple parallel cavities, each configured to receive a single strip-shaped consumable article. This helps to maintain the strip-shaped consumable articles aesthetically arranged in the first and second storage volumes. This also helps to maintain the strip-shaped consumable articles in the first and second storage volumes in a manner that allows for easy removal from the cavities.

[0026] In some embodiments, the size and shape of the parallel corrugations are configured such that a first plurality of strip articles can be accommodated within a first storage volume, and a second plurality of strip articles can be accommodated within a second storage volume. Each pair of adjacent strip articles in the first plurality of strip articles in the first storage volume is interposed with one strip article in the second plurality of strip articles in the second storage volume, and each pair of adjacent strip articles in the second plurality of strip articles in the second storage volume is interposed with one strip article in the first plurality of strip articles in the first storage volume. This allows for a thinner package compared to embodiments using non-corrugated internal dividers.

[0027] In some embodiments, the size and shape of the parallel corrugations are configured such that the first plurality of strip articles and the second plurality of strip articles can be arranged substantially coplanar with each other. In this way, extremely thin packaging not significantly thicker than the diameter of a single strip consumable article can be obtained, while maintaining the advantages of an airtight first storage volume and a second storage volume.

[0028] The sheet material of the internal divider portion can be made of a material that is substantially impermeable to air or moisture. The first and second shell portions can also be made of a material that is substantially impermeable to air or moisture. This helps maintain the freshness of unused bar consumables in the first or second storage volume when the packaging is closed. Additionally, this helps confine odors within the packaging when used bar consumables are returned to the first or second storage volume.

[0029] The internal divider section can be made of sheet material from paper or cardboard. Both the first and second shell sections can be made of paper or cardboard. This is desirable to reduce plastic waste and make the packaging easier to recycle.

[0030] The first and second shell sections, as well as the internal divider section, can be made of paper or cardboard, and the first and second storage volumes can be independently and hermetically sealed from the external atmosphere before the packaging is first opened. Even without an external polymer film packaging, the first and second volumes can be independently and hermetically sealed from the external atmosphere before the packaging is first opened. In this way, more environmentally responsible packaging without an external polymer film packaging becomes possible.

[0031] The peripheral flanges of the first and second shell portions may have non-overlapping tab portions at one edge of the packaging, each tab portion configured as a pull tab to facilitate opening the packaging. In embodiments where one edge of the first shell portion connects to a corresponding edge of the second shell portion along a fold line, the tab portions are preferably located at the edges of the first and second shell portions opposite to the edges connected at the fold line.

[0032] According to a second aspect of the present invention, a method for packaging bar-shaped consumable articles is provided, comprising the following steps:

[0033] A first shell portion and a second shell portion are provided, each of the first shell portion and the second shell portion including a recessed tray having an outwardly extending peripheral flange;

[0034] An internal partition portion is provided, the internal partition portion comprising a sheet of material having an outwardly extending peripheral flange;

[0035] Place the first plurality of strip-shaped consumable items in the recessed tray of the first shell portion;

[0036] The internal divider portion is arranged above the first plurality of strip consumable articles in the recessed tray of the first shell portion, such that the outwardly extending peripheral flange of the internal divider portion contacts the outwardly extending peripheral flange of the first shell portion.

[0037] Place a second plurality of strip-shaped consumable articles on the exposed surface of the internal partition portion;

[0038] The second shell portion is arranged above the second plurality of strip-shaped consumable articles, such that the second plurality of strip-shaped consumable articles are received in a recessed tray of the second shell portion, and such that the outwardly extending peripheral flange of the second shell portion contacts the outwardly extending peripheral flange of the internal partition portion; and

[0039] The corresponding outwardly extending peripheral flanges are joined together to form an airtight package.

[0040] One edge of the first shell portion can be connected along a fold line to a corresponding edge of the second shell portion, and the second shell portion can be pivoted about the fold line to be positioned above a second plurality of strip-shaped consumable articles. Therefore, the first and second shell portions can be folded together about the fold line to sandwich the internal partition portion between the first and second shell portions.

[0041] The recessed trays of each shell section can be formed by embossing or molding processes.

[0042] At least one of the first shell portion and the second shell portion may be provided with a hinge portion extending across the recessed tray, such that the first portion of the respective shell portion can move about the hinge portion relative to the second portion of the respective shell portion.

[0043] The hinge portion can be configured such that the surface area of ​​the recessed tray in the first part of the corresponding shell portion is between 25% and 100% of the surface area of ​​the recessed tray in the second part of the corresponding shell portion, preferably between 50% and 100%, and more preferably between 75% and 100%.

[0044] In this way, it is possible to access the interior of the first shell section by moving a first portion of the first shell section about a hinge portion of the first shell section. It is also possible to access the interior of the second shell section by moving a first portion of the second shell section about a hinge portion of the second shell section. By keeping the respective first shell sections and the second portions of the second shell sections connected to each other and to the internal divider portion, it is possible to prevent undesirable spillage of consumable articles from the packaging, because even when the respective first portions of the first or second shell sections move to an open position about the hinge portion to allow access to the consumable articles within the shell section, the consumable articles will still remain along a portion of their length between the respective second portions of the first and second shell sections and the internal divider portion.

[0045] The portion of the peripheral flange of the first or second shell portion extending from the first part of the respective shell portion can be adhered to the peripheral flange of the inner partition portion using a resealable adhesive. This allows the first part of the respective shell portion to be resealed to the peripheral flange of the inner partition portion after access to the interior of the shell portion has been achieved, when the first part of the respective shell portion is moved back to the closed position. In this way, the respective shell portion can be hermetically sealed again after being opened for access.

[0046] The resealable adhesive can be a pressure-sensitive adhesive. The resealable adhesive can be selected from: styrene-ethylene / butene-styrene (SEBS), styrene-ethylene / propylene (SEP), and styrene-isoprene-styrene (SIS). The resealable adhesive can have a viscosity of 100 to 1000 mPa·s, preferably 150 to 600 mPa·s.

[0047] The portion of the peripheral flange of the first or second shell portion extending from the second portion of the respective shell portion can be adhered to the peripheral flange of the internal partition portion by a permanent adhesive. The use of a permanent adhesive helps to prevent the respective second portions of the first and second shell portions from undesirably separating from each other, and from the peripheral flange of the internal partition portion.

[0048] The permanent adhesive may be selected from: polyvinyl acetate (PVA), ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), amorphous polyalphaolefin (APAO), and polyamide (PA). The permanent adhesive may have a viscosity of 250 to 1500 mPa·s, preferably 400 to 1000 mPa·s.

[0049] The hinge portion may have an inner frame strip that engages with a second portion of the corresponding shell portion. The inner frame strip provides structural stiffness to the corresponding shell portion at the hinge portion. As the first portion of the corresponding shell portion moves about the hinge line, the inner frame strip may protrude from the second portion of the corresponding shell portion. The inner frame strip may have a first end portion and a second end portion that engage with opposing portions of a peripheral flange of the corresponding shell portion.

[0050] The material sheet of the internal partition can be formed with parallel corrugations, each corrugation being sized and shaped to receive strip-shaped articles. When the internal partition is positioned above a first plurality of strip-shaped consumable articles in a recessed tray of the first shell portion, the first plurality of strip-shaped consumable articles will be received by the parallel corrugations on the lower surface of the internal partition. The upper surface of the internal partition, which also has parallel corrugations, then provides an exposed surface on which a second plurality of strip-shaped consumable articles are placed. The parallel corrugations help to hold the second plurality of strip-shaped consumable articles in place when the second shell portion is positioned above the second plurality of strip-shaped consumable articles.

[0051] The size and shape of the parallel corrugations can be configured such that, when the packaging is airtight, each pair of adjacent strips in the first plurality of strips in the recessed tray of the first shell portion inserts into one of the second plurality of strips in the recessed tray of the second shell portion, and each pair of adjacent strips in the second plurality of strips in the recessed tray of the second shell portion inserts into one of the first plurality of strips in the recessed tray of the first shell portion. This allows for a thinner packaging compared to embodiments using non-corrugated internal dividers.

[0052] The size and shape of the parallel corrugations are set such that the first plurality of strip articles and the second plurality of strip articles are arranged to be substantially coplanar with each other. In this way, extremely thin packaging that is not significantly thicker than the diameter of a single strip consumable article can be obtained, while maintaining the advantages of airtight first and second storage volumes.

[0053] The sheet material of the internal divider can be made of a material that is substantially impermeable to air or moisture. The first and second shell sections can also be made of a material that is substantially impermeable to air or moisture. This helps maintain the freshness of unused bar consumables when the packaging is closed. Additionally, it helps confine odors within the packaging when used bar consumables are returned to it.

[0054] The internal divider section can be made of sheet material from paper or cardboard. Both the first and second shell sections can be made of paper or cardboard. This is desirable to reduce plastic waste and make the packaging easier to recycle.

[0055] The peripheral flanges of the first and second shell portions may have non-overlapping tab portions at one edge of the packaging, each tab portion configured as a pull tab to facilitate opening the packaging. In embodiments where one edge of the first shell portion connects to a corresponding edge of the second shell portion along a fold line, the tab portions are preferably located at the edges of the first and second shell portions opposite to the edges connected at the fold line.

[0056] Embodiments of the present invention can provide pulp-based structured packaging as a sealable bag package with internally sealed outlined paper dividers, forming two separate storage volumes, to maintain flexibility and create independent, airtight storage volumes. The storage volumes may have an integral cavity in which individual strip-shaped consumable articles are linearly separated from each other, arranged separately on both sides within the same longitudinal axis. The packaging may include a thin package in which the outer layer comprises two shell portions based on pulp (e.g., paper or paperboard), the shell portions being provided with recessed trays by an embossing or molding process. The first and second shell portions may be formed from a single sheet of paper or paperboard and folded together around a fold line. When fully assembled, the interior of the packaging defines two independent, airtight storage volumes, thereby holding two separate sets of consumable articles. The packaging allows for logical sequential consumption of consumables within the packaging. By providing two independent storage volumes, one storage volume can remain factory-sealed while the other storage volume is opened to allow consumption of consumable articles. Optionally, a resealable adhesive is provided on a portion of the peripheral flange to allow the housing to be partially closed and to reseal the storage volume after the first opening.

[0057] In the context of this disclosure, the term "airtight seal" is intended to mean a seal that is essentially airtight.

[0058] In the context of this disclosure, the term "hinge portion" is intended to refer to a portion of a shell portion that allows a first portion of the shell portion to pivot relative to a second portion of the shell portion about a line crossing the shell portion.

[0059] In the context of this disclosure, the term "paper" is intended to mean a sheet material made from pulp of wood or other fibrous material, weighing no more than 250 grams per square meter.

[0060] In the context of this disclosure, the term "paperboard" is intended to mean a sheet material (though thicker than paper) made from pulp of wood or other fibrous material, weighing not less than 250 grams per square meter.

[0061] In the context of this disclosure, the term "peripheral flange" is intended to mean a flange extending around at least a portion of the periphery of a component. Preferably, the peripheral flange is substantially planar. "Outwardly extending peripheral flange" refers to a peripheral flange positioned around one or more outer edges of a component.

[0062] In the context of this disclosure, the term "permanent adhesive" is intended to mean an adhesive that, when applied to one or both of two facing surfaces, enables the facing surfaces to adhere to each other in a permanent relationship, such that the facing surfaces cannot be separated from each other without tearing or damaging the facing surfaces.

[0063] In the context of this disclosure, the term "resealable adhesive" is intended to mean an adhesive that, when applied to one or both of two facing surfaces, allows the facing surfaces to be separated from each other and resealed multiple times.

[0064] 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.

[0065] Example Ex1: A package for a bar-shaped consumable product, the package comprising a first shell portion, a second shell portion, and an internal divider portion, wherein:

[0066] Each of the first shell portion and the second shell portion includes a recessed tray having an outwardly extending peripheral flange;

[0067] The internal partition portion includes a sheet of material with an outwardly extending peripheral flange;

[0068] The internal partition portion is disposed between the first shell portion and the second shell portion, and the peripheral flange of the internal partition portion is sandwiched between the peripheral flange of the first shell portion and the peripheral flange of the second shell portion.

[0069] The packaging defines a first storage volume between the internal partition portion and the first shell portion and a second storage volume between the internal partition portion and the second shell portion, the first storage volume and the second storage volume being airtightly isolated from each other by the internal partition portion.

[0070] Example Ex2: The packaging of Example Ex1, wherein one edge of the first shell portion is connected along the fold line to the corresponding edge of the second shell portion.

[0071] Example Ex3: The packaging of Example Ex1 or Ex2, wherein at least one of the first shell portion and the second shell portion is provided with a hinge portion extending across the recessed tray, such that a first portion of the respective shell portion can move about the hinge portion relative to a second portion of the respective shell portion, thereby allowing access to the first storage volume or the second storage volume.

[0072] Example Ex4: The packaging of Example Ex3, wherein the hinge portion is configured such that the surface area of ​​the recessed tray in the first part of the corresponding shell portion is between 25% and 100% of the surface area of ​​the recessed tray in the second part of the corresponding shell portion, preferably between 50% and 100%, more preferably between 75% and 100%.

[0073] Example Ex5: The packaging of Example Ex3 or Ex4, wherein a portion of the peripheral flange of the first shell portion or the second shell portion extending from the first part of the respective shell portion is adhered to the peripheral flange of the internal partition portion by a resealable adhesive.

[0074] Example Ex6: The packaging of any one of Examples Ex3 to Ex5, wherein a portion of the peripheral flange of the first shell portion or the second shell portion extending from the second portion of the respective shell portion is adhered to the peripheral flange of the internal partition portion by a permanent adhesive.

[0075] Example Ex7: The packaging of any one of Examples Ex3 to Ex6, wherein the hinge portion is provided with an inner frame strip that is coupled to a second portion of the corresponding shell portion.

[0076] Example Ex8: The packaging of Example Ex7, wherein the inner frame strip has a first end portion and a second end portion that are coupled to opposing portions of the peripheral flange of the respective shell portion.

[0077] Example Ex9: The packaging of any of the preceding examples, wherein the material sheets of the internal dividing portions are formed with parallel corrugations, the size and shape of each of the parallel corrugations being configured to receive strip articles.

[0078] Example Ex10: The packaging of Example Ex9, wherein the size and shape of the parallel corrugations are set such that a first plurality of strip articles can be accommodated in the first storage volume, and a second plurality of strip articles can be accommodated in the second storage volume, wherein each pair of adjacent strip articles of the first plurality of strip articles in the first storage volume is inserted with one strip article of the second plurality of strip articles in the second storage volume, and each pair of adjacent strip articles of the second plurality of strip articles in the second storage volume is inserted with one strip article of the first plurality of strip articles in the first storage volume.

[0079] Example Ex11: The packaging of Example Ex10, wherein the size and shape of the parallel corrugations are set such that the first plurality of strip articles and the second plurality of strip articles can be arranged to be substantially coplanar with each other.

[0080] Example Ex12: The packaging of any of the preceding examples, wherein the material sheet of the inner divider portion is made of a material that is substantially impermeable to air or moisture.

[0081] Example Ex13: The packaging of any of the preceding examples, wherein the first shell portion and the second shell portion are made of a material that is substantially impermeable to air or moisture.

[0082] Example Ex14: The packaging of any of the preceding examples, wherein the material sheet of the internal divider portion is made of cardboard.

[0083] Example Ex15: The packaging of any of the preceding examples, wherein the first shell portion and the second shell portion are made of cardboard.

[0084] Example Ex16: The packaging of any of the preceding examples, wherein the first shell portion and the second shell portion and the internal divider portion are made of cardboard, and wherein the first storage volume and the second storage volume are independently hermetically sealed to be protected from external atmosphere before the packaging is first opened.

[0085] Example Ex17: The packaging of Example Ex16, wherein even without an external polymer film packaging, the first and second volumes are independently hermetically sealed to protect against the influence of the external atmosphere before the packaging is first opened.

[0086] Example Ex18: The packaging of any of the preceding examples, wherein the peripheral flange of the first shell portion and the peripheral flange of the second shell portion are provided with non-overlapping tab portions at one edge of the packaging, each tab portion being configured as a pull tab to facilitate opening the packaging.

[0087] Example Ex19: A method for packaging bar-shaped consumable articles, comprising the following steps:

[0088] A first shell portion and a second shell portion are provided, each of the first shell portion and the second shell portion including a recessed tray having an outwardly extending peripheral flange;

[0089] An internal partition portion is provided, the internal partition portion comprising a sheet of material having an outwardly extending peripheral flange;

[0090] Place the first plurality of strip-shaped consumable items in the recessed tray of the first shell portion;

[0091] The internal divider portion is arranged above the first plurality of strip consumable articles in the recessed tray of the first shell portion, such that the outwardly extending peripheral flange of the internal divider portion contacts the outwardly extending peripheral flange of the first shell portion.

[0092] Place a second plurality of strip-shaped consumable articles on the exposed surface of the internal partition portion;

[0093] The second shell portion is arranged above the second plurality of strip-shaped consumable articles, such that the second plurality of strip-shaped consumable articles are received in a recessed tray of the second shell portion, and such that the outwardly extending peripheral flange of the second shell portion contacts the outwardly extending peripheral flange of the internal partition portion; and

[0094] The corresponding outwardly extending peripheral flanges are joined together to form an airtight package.

[0095] Example Ex20: The method of Example Ex19, wherein one edge of the first shell portion is connected along a fold line to a corresponding edge of the second shell portion, and wherein the second shell portion is arranged above the second plurality of strip consumable articles by means of the second shell portion pivoting about the fold line.

[0096] Example Ex21: The method of Example Ex19 or Ex20, wherein at least one of the first shell portion and the second shell portion is provided with a hinge portion extending across the recessed tray, such that a first portion of the respective shell portion is movable about the hinge portion relative to a second portion of the respective shell portion.

[0097] Example Ex22: The method of Example Ex21, wherein the hinge portion is configured such that the surface area of ​​the recessed tray in the first part of the corresponding shell portion is between 25% and 100% of the surface area of ​​the recessed tray in the second part of the corresponding shell portion, preferably between 50% and 100%, more preferably between 75% and 100%.

[0098] Example Ex23: The method of Example Ex21 or Ex22, wherein a portion of the peripheral flange of the first shell portion or the second shell portion extending from the first portion of the respective shell portion is adhered to the peripheral flange of the internal partition portion by a resealable adhesive.

[0099] Example Ex24: The method of any one of Examples Ex21 to Ex23, wherein a portion of the peripheral flange of the first shell portion or the second shell portion extending from the second portion of the respective shell portion is adhered to the peripheral flange of the internal partition portion by a permanent adhesive.

[0100] Example Ex25: The method of any one of Examples Ex21 to Ex24, wherein the hinge portion is provided with an inner frame strip that is coupled to a second portion of the corresponding shell portion.

[0101] Example Ex26: The method of Example Ex25, wherein the inner frame strip has a first end portion and a second end portion that are coupled to opposing portions of the peripheral flange of the respective shell portion.

[0102] Example Ex27: A method of any of the preceding examples, wherein the material sheet of the internal dividing portion is formed with parallel corrugations, the size and shape of each of the parallel corrugations being set to receive a strip article.

[0103] Example Ex28: The method of Example Ex27, wherein the size and shape of the parallel corrugations are set such that when the packaging is airtight, each pair of adjacent strips of the first plurality of strips in the recessed tray of the first shell portion is inserted into one of the second plurality of strips in the recessed tray of the second shell portion, and each pair of adjacent strips of the second plurality of strips in the recessed tray of the second shell portion is inserted into one of the first plurality of strips in the recessed tray of the first shell portion.

[0104] Example Ex29: The method of Example Ex28, wherein the size and shape of the parallel corrugations are set such that the first plurality of strip articles and the second plurality of strip articles are arranged to be substantially coplanar with each other.

[0105] Example Ex30: The method of any one of Examples Ex19 to Ex29, wherein the material sheet of the inner separator portion is made of a material that is substantially impermeable to air or moisture.

[0106] Example Ex31: The method of any one of Examples Ex19 to Ex30, wherein the first shell portion and the second shell portion are made of a material that is substantially impermeable to air or moisture.

[0107] Example Ex32: The method of any one of Examples Ex19 to Ex31, wherein the material sheet of the inner partition portion is made of cardboard.

[0108] Example Ex33: The method of any one of Examples Ex19 to Ex32, wherein the first shell portion and the second shell portion are made of cardboard.

[0109] Example Ex34: The method of any one of Examples Ex19 to Ex33, wherein the peripheral flange of the first shell portion and the peripheral flange of the second shell portion are provided with non-overlapping tab portions at one edge of the package, each tab portion being configured as a pull tab to facilitate opening the package. Attached Figure Description

[0110] The examples will now be described further with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0111] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a known packaging for bar-shaped consumable products is shown;

[0112] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the packaging according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0113] Figure 3 It shows Figure 2 The package is a cross-section along line X-X' when it is empty;

[0114] Figure 4 It shows a container for bar-shaped consumable products. Figure 2 The packaging is along the cross section of line X-X';

[0115] Figure 5 It shows Figure 4 The cross-section of the strip-shaped consumable product is identified by a letter label;

[0116] Figure 6 A plan view of the packaging of an embodiment of the present invention in a closed configuration is shown;

[0117] Figure 7 It also shows a closed construction. Figure 6 Side view of the packaging;

[0118] Figure 8 It shows Figure 6 A side view of the packaging, in which a portion of one of the shell parts moves to the open position around the hinge part;

[0119] Figures 9 to 11 It shows Figure 6 A perspective view of the packaging shows how a portion of the shell moves around the hinge portion to the open position to allow access to the storage volume;

[0120] Figure 12 The first and second shell portions of an embodiment of the invention are shown connected along the fold lines before assembly and packaging.

[0121] Figure 13 This illustrates applying the inner frame strip to Figure 12 The first shell portion and the second shell portion;

[0122] Figure 14 It shows in Figure 12 The inner frame strips in place in the first and second shell sections;

[0123] Figure 15 The first plurality of bar-shaped consumable items are shown being placed Figure 14 The first shell portion is recessed into the tray;

[0124] Figure 16 It shows in Figure 14 The first plurality of strip-shaped consumable articles are positioned in the recessed tray of the first shell portion;

[0125] Figure 17 The corrugated internal partition section is shown being arranged in Figure 16 The first plurality of strips of consumable products are above the recessed tray of the shell portion;

[0126] Figure 18It shows in Figure 16 The corrugated internal divider portion positioned above the first plurality of strip-shaped consumable articles in the recessed tray of the shell portion;

[0127] Figure 19 The second set of multiple bar-shaped consumable items is shown being placed Figure 18 The corrugations on the exposed surface of the internal partition section;

[0128] Figure 20 It shows in Figure 18 The second or more strip consumable articles are positioned in the corrugations of the exposed surface of the internal partition section;

[0129] Figures 21 to 23 It shows Figure 20 The second shell portion is being folded over the first shell portion to form the package;

[0130] Figure 24 and Figure 25 It shows Figure 23 The packaging is being opened to allow access to the bar-shaped consumable product in one of the storage volumes;

[0131] Figure 26 The closed structure is shown. Figure 23 A flat diagram of the packaging;

[0132] Figure 27 It also shows a closed construction. Figure 26 Side view of the packaging;

[0133] Figure 28 It shows Figure 26 A side view of the packaging, in which a portion of one of the shell parts moves to the open position around the hinge part;

[0134] Figure 29 The image shows bar-shaped consumable products being shipped from... Figure 28 It was taken out of the packaging;

[0135] Figure 30 Showing various sizes marked with identifier letters Figure 26 An orthographic projection view of the packaging. Detailed Implementation

[0136] Figure 2 An isometric view of package 1 with longitudinal axis Y-Y' and transverse axis X-X' is shown. A first outer shell portion 11 with an outwardly extending peripheral flange 211 is shown. Figure 2 As can be seen, the peripheral flange 211 at least partially surrounds the recessed tray 221.

[0137] Figure 3 It shows along Figure 2 The cross-sectional view of line X-X' shows the empty package 1. Figure 3 The relationship between the first housing portion 11 and the second housing portion 12 is shown. The peripheral flange 211 of the first housing portion 11 is aligned with the corresponding peripheral flange 212 of the second housing portion 12. Figure 3 As shown on the left, a contoured internal partition portion 45, having parallel corrugations and an outwardly extending peripheral flange 245, is disposed between the first housing portion 11 and the second housing portion 12, with the peripheral flange 245 of the internal partition portion 45 sandwiched between the peripheral flange 211 of the first housing portion 11 and the peripheral flange 212 of the second housing portion 12. Each of the housing portions 11 and 12 includes recessed trays 221 and 222. The contoured internal partition portion 45 extends between the recessed trays 221 and 222 to define a first hermetically sealed storage volume 300 and a second hermetically sealed storage volume 301.

[0138] Figure 4 It shows Figure 3 The packaging 1, but storage volumes 300, 301 are shown filled with strip-shaped consumable items 50, not empty. The strip-shaped consumable items 50 fit into parallel corrugations on opposing surfaces of the internal divider portion 45. The consumable items 50 in the first storage volume 300 are inserted by consumable items 50 in the second storage volume 301. This is in Figure 5 It is clearly shown that consumable articles 50 labeled B, C, D and E are in the first storage volume 300, and consumable articles 50 labeled F, G, H and I are in the second storage volume 301.

[0139] By inserting the consumables 50 in this way, it is possible to make the packaging relatively thin while still maintaining two separate storage volumes 300 and 301.

[0140] The first outer casing 11, the second outer casing 12, and the internal divider 45 are all made of pulp-based paper or cardboard. The internal divider 45 separates the first storage volume 300 and the second storage volume 301 from each other and can serve as a moisture barrier. The internal divider 45 can also act as a physical barrier against the transmission of odors or other gases. For example, used consumables stored in one storage volume 300 will not contaminate new consumables stored in the other storage volume 301. In addition, even when the package 1 is not completely full, the corrugated internal divider 45 helps to prevent or reduce the movement of consumables 50 within the storage volumes 300, 301. This helps prevent damage to consumables 50 caused by shaking inside the package 1 when carried in a user's pocket or handbag.

[0141] Figure 6 and Figure 7 A package 1 is shown having a first outer shell portion 11 and a second outer shell portion 12, each having peripheral outer flanges 211, 212. The outer shell portions 11, 12 are joined to each other along a fold line 15 at their respective lower edges. The peripheral outer flanges 211, 212 are adhered to each other to clamp the internal partition portion 45. Figure 6 and Figure 7 (Not shown in the image) Peripheral outer flange 245. Package 1 contains, for example, Figure 7 The consumable article 50 is shown in dashed lines. The peripheral flange 211 of the first shell portion 11 and the peripheral flange 212 of the second shell portion 12 have non-overlapping tab portions 20 and 21 at the top edge of the package 1. The tab portions 20 and 21 are configured as pull tabs to facilitate opening the package 1. Figure 8 As shown, the first shell portion 11 is provided with a hinge portion 32 extending across the recessed tray 221, such that a first portion 30 of the first shell portion 11 is movable about the hinge portion 32 relative to a second portion 60 of the first shell portion 11, thereby allowing access to the first storage volume. This allows consumable articles 50 to be removed from the first storage volume. A similar hinge portion is arranged on the second shell portion 12, thereby allowing access to the second storage volume. In this embodiment, the hinge portion 32 is generally parallel to the fold line 15 at the bottom edge of the package 1. The portion of the peripheral flange extending from the first portion 30 of the first shell portion 11 is provided with a resealable adhesive so that the peripheral flange of the first portion 30 of the first shell portion 11 can be peeled off from the peripheral flange 245 of the inner separator portion and the peripheral flange 212 of the outer shell portion 12 to open, and then resealed to close. A similar arrangement is provided to the second shell portion 12 on the other side of the package 1. The portion of the peripheral flange extending from the second portion 60 of the first shell portion 11 is provided with a permanent adhesive to provide a strong bond between the hinge portion 32 and the fold line 15, between the peripheral flange of the second portion 60 of the first shell portion 11, the peripheral flange 245 of the internal partition portion, and the peripheral flange 212 of the second outer shell portion 12 in the lower portion of the package 1.

[0142] Figures 9 to 11 It shows Figures 6 to 8An alternative view of package 1 shows how the first portion 30 of the first shell portion 11 can be folded rearward around the hinge portion 32 to allow access to the first storage volume. It should be understood that the second shell portion 12 can be folded rearward in a similar manner to allow access to the second storage volume. The tabs 20, 21 facilitate selective rearward folding of one or the other of the first shell portion 11 and the second shell portion 12 as needed by the user. The corresponding tabs 20, 21 can be pinched between the fingers and thumb of one hand while the other hand holds the body of package 1, thus facilitating selective rearward folding and opening.

[0143] Figure 12 A paper or paperboard blank 10 is shown, configured as a starting point for assembling a package 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The paper or paperboard blank 10 includes a first shell portion 11 and a second shell portion 12 joined together at one edge along a fold line 15. The first shell portion 11 has a recessed tray 221 and an outwardly extending peripheral flange 211. The recessed tray 221 can be formed by an embossing or molding process. Similarly, the second shell portion 12 has a recessed tray 222 and an outwardly extending peripheral flange 212. As previously described, tab portions 20, 21 are disposed on the peripheral flanges 211, 212. A hinge portion 32 is formed generally parallel to the fold line 15 across the first shell portion 11. The hinge portion 32 divides the first shell portion 11 into a first portion 30 and a second portion 60. The second portion 60 is adjacent to the fold line 15, while the first portion extends toward the top edge of the first shell portion 11. Similarly, a hinge portion 33 is formed generally parallel to the fold line 15 across the second shell portion 12. Hinge portion 33 divides the second shell portion 12 into a first portion 130 and a second portion 160. The second portion 160 is adjacent to the fold line 15, while the first portion extends toward the top edge of the second shell portion 12. Hinge portions 32, 33 allow the first portions 30, 130 of each respective shell portion 11, 12 to be folded rearward relative to the second portions 60, 160 of the shell portions 11, 12. Hinge portions 32, 33 can be configured to cross the fold line of the recessed trays 221, 222. To allow folding movement, it may be necessary to provide cutouts at appropriate locations at either end of the hinge portions 32, 33 in the sidewalls of the recessed trays 221, 222 and in the peripheral flanges 211, 212.

[0144] Figure 13 and Figure 14The following steps in the assembly of package 1 are illustrated, wherein a paper or cardboard inner frame strip 40 is attached along hinge portions 32, 33 to the interior of the first shell portion 11 and the second shell portion 12. The inner frame strip 40 provides additional structural rigidity to package 1. The inner frame strip 40 is glued to the interior of the second portions 60, 160 of shell portions 11, 12, but not to the interior of the first portions 30, 130 of shell portions 11, 12. In this way, the first portions 30, 130 can be folded back relative to the second portions 60, 160 without deforming the inner frame strip 40. When the first portions 30, 130 are folded back, the portion of the inner frame strip 40 covering the edges of the first portions 30, 130 will protrude from the edges of the second portions 60, 160.

[0145] like Figure 15 and Figure 16 As shown, the first plurality of strip-shaped consumable articles 50 are then placed in the recessed tray 222 of the second shell portion 12 in a substantially orthogonal arrangement to the lines of the hinge portion 33 and the inner frame strip 40. In the illustrated embodiment, the strip-shaped consumable articles 50 are spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance.

[0146] Figure 17 and Figure 18The illustration shows an internal divider portion 45 positioned above a plurality of strip-shaped consumable articles 50 within a recessed tray 222 of the second shell portion 12. The internal divider portion 45 of the illustrated embodiment comprises a sheet of material 145 having an outwardly extending peripheral flange 245. The sheet of material 145 is formed with parallel corrugations, each corrugated in size and shape configured to receive the strip-shaped consumable articles 50. It should be noted that the sheet of material 145 is shaped and configured to engage with the peripheral flange 245. This is achieved by providing arched end walls 345 at the ends of the corrugations, extending above or below the plane of the peripheral flange 245. Importantly, when the package 1 is assembled, the internal divider portion 45 provides an airtight seal between the recessed trays 221, 222, and this means that there must be no air gaps between the sheet of material 145 and the peripheral flange 245. While a corrugated construction of the material sheet 145 is preferred because it helps to securely hold the strip consumable articles 50 within the package 1 and allows for a thinner overall package 1, some embodiments may have a flat, non-corrugated material sheet 145. An inner divider portion 45 is positioned above the second shell portion 12 to accommodate the first plurality of strip consumable articles 50 in a recessed tray 222. A peripheral flange 245 of the inner divider portion 45 is positioned to align with and adhere to the peripheral flange 212 of the second shell portion 12. A releasable adhesive is used to adhere the peripheral flange 212 of the first portion 130 of the second shell portion 12 to the corresponding portion of the peripheral flange 245 of the inner divider portion 45. A permanent adhesive is used to adhere the peripheral flange of the second portion 160 of the second shell portion 12 to the corresponding portion of the peripheral flange 245 of the inner divider portion 45.

[0147] like Figure 19 and Figure 20 As shown, a second plurality of strip-shaped consumable articles 50 are then placed in the exposed corrugations of the material sheet 145 of the inner separator portion 45. The second plurality of strip-shaped consumable articles 50 are hermetically separated from the first plurality of strip-shaped consumable articles 50 by the material sheet 145. The first and second plurality of strip-shaped consumable articles 50 are arranged in an interdigitated pattern.

[0148] Figures 21 to 23The final assembly steps are shown, wherein the first shell portion 11 is folded over the second shell portion 12 around the fold line 15. The peripheral flange 211 of the first shell portion 11 is aligned with the peripheral flange 245 of the inner partition portion 45 and the peripheral flange 212 of the second shell portion 12. The peripheral flange 211 of the first shell portion 11 is adhered to the peripheral flange 245 of the inner partition portion 45. A releasable adhesive is used to adhere the peripheral flange 211 of the first portion 30 of the first shell portion 11 to the corresponding portion of the peripheral flange 245 of the inner partition portion 45. A permanent adhesive is used to adhere the peripheral flange of the second portion 60 of the first shell portion 11 to the corresponding portion of the peripheral flange 245 of the inner partition portion 45.

[0149] In this way, and as Figure 24 and Figure 25 As shown, a storage volume 300, 301 with two independent, airtight, isolated compartments is formed for the strip-shaped consumable article 50 (see Figure 1). Figures 3 to 5 The packaging 1. The first portion 30 of the first shell portion 11 can be folded rearward around the hinge portion 32 to allow access to the first storage volume 300. It should be understood that the second shell portion 12 can be folded rearward in a similar manner to allow access to the second storage volume 301. The tab portions 20, 21 facilitate selective rearward folding of one or the other of the first shell portion 11 and the second shell portion 12 as needed by the user. The corresponding tab portions 20, 21 can be pinched between the fingers and thumb of one hand while the other hand holds the body of the packaging 1, thus facilitating selective rearward folding and opening. The corresponding first portions 30, 130 of the first shell portion 11 and the second shell portion 12 can be closed and resealed by a resealable adhesive provided on the corresponding portions of the peripheral flanges of the first portions 30, 130 and the peripheral flanges 245 of the internal partition portion 45. The corresponding second portions 60, 160 of the first shell portion 11 and the second shell portion 12 are firmly adhered to the corresponding portions of the peripheral flange 245 of the inner partition portion 45 by a permanent adhesive, and optionally firmly adhered to each other, which helps to provide overall structural stability of the package 1. Figure 25 As is best seen, when the first portions 30, 130 are folded back, the inner frame strip 40 extends from the second portions 60, 160 of the corresponding first shell portion 11 and second shell portion 12, thereby providing an aesthetically pleasing frame at the openings of the corresponding storage volumes 300, 301 and providing structural reinforcement in both the open and closed configurations.

[0150] Figure 26 It shows Figures 23 to 25 The alternative front elevation view of package 1, and Figures 27 to 29A side elevation view is shown, illustrating how the first portion 30 can be folded back around the hinge portion 32 to access the first storage volume 300 and allow the strip consumable article 50 to be removed from the first storage volume 300. The inner frame strip 40 is shown having a top edge 41 and a bottom edge 42, the top edge being exposed when the package 1 is opened.

[0151] Figure 30 An orthographic projection view of exemplary packages of various sizes marked with identifying letters is shown.

[0152] While not intended to be limiting, the currently preferred embodiments may have the following dimensions:

[0153] Table 1:

[0154]

[0155] The blank 10 may be made of pulp-based paper or paperboard. The internal separator portion 45 may be made of pulp-based paper or paperboard. The blank 10 may include a molded pulp-based portion. The internal separator portion 45 may include a molded pulp-based portion.

[0156] The inner frame strip 40 may be made of paper or paperboard. The inner frame strip 40 may be made of pulp-based material.

[0157] For the purposes of this specification and the appended claims, unless otherwise indicated, all figures representing quantities, quantities, percentages, etc., shall be understood to be modified by the term "about" in all cases. Furthermore, all ranges include the disclosed maximum and minimum points, and include any intermediate ranges that may or may not be specifically listed herein. Thus, in this context, the number A is understood to be A ± 5% of A. In this context, the number A can be considered to include a value within the general standard error for the measurement of the property modified by the number A. In some cases used in the appended claims, the number A may deviate from the percentages listed above, provided that the amount of deviation from A does not materially affect the essential and novel features of the claimed invention. Moreover, all ranges include the disclosed maximum and minimum points, and include any intermediate ranges that may or may not be specifically listed herein.

Claims

1. A packaging for a strip-shaped consumable product, the packaging comprising a first shell portion, a second shell portion, and an internal divider portion, wherein: Each of the first shell portion and the second shell portion includes a recessed tray having an outwardly extending peripheral flange; The internal partition portion includes a sheet of material with an outwardly extending peripheral flange; The internal partition portion is disposed between the first shell portion and the second shell portion, and the peripheral flange of the internal partition portion is sandwiched between the peripheral flange of the first shell portion and the peripheral flange of the second shell portion. The packaging defines a first storage volume between the internal partition portion and the first shell portion and a second storage volume between the internal partition portion and the second shell portion, the first storage volume and the second storage volume being airtightly isolated from each other by the internal partition portion; At least one of the first shell portion and the second shell portion is provided with a hinge portion extending across the recessed tray, such that a first portion of the respective shell portion can move about the hinge portion relative to a second portion of the respective shell portion, thereby allowing access to the first storage volume or the second storage volume.

2. The packaging according to claim 1, wherein one edge of the first shell portion is connected along a fold line to a corresponding edge of the second shell portion.

3. The packaging according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the hinge portion is configured such that the surface area of ​​the recessed tray in the first portion of the corresponding shell portion is between 25% and 100% of the surface area of ​​the recessed tray in the second portion of the corresponding shell portion, preferably between 50% and 100%, more preferably between 75% and 100%.

4. The packaging according to any of the preceding claims, wherein a portion of the peripheral flange of the first shell portion or the second shell portion extending from the first portion of the respective shell portion is adhered to the peripheral flange of the internal partition portion by a resealable adhesive.

5. The packaging according to any of the preceding claims, wherein a portion of the peripheral flange of the first shell portion or the second shell portion extending from the second portion of the respective shell portion is adhered to the peripheral flange of the internal partition portion by a permanent adhesive.

6. The packaging according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the hinge portion is provided with an inner frame strip that is coupled to a second portion of the respective shell portion.

7. The packaging of claim 6, wherein the inner frame strip has a first end portion and a second end portion of opposing portions of the peripheral flanges of the respective shell portions.

8. The packaging according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the material sheet of the internal dividing portion is formed with parallel corrugations, the size and shape of each of the parallel corrugations being configured to receive strip articles.

9. The packaging of claim 8, wherein the size and shape of the parallel corrugations are configured such that a first plurality of strip articles can be accommodated within the first storage volume, and a second plurality of strip articles can be accommodated within the second storage volume, wherein each pair of adjacent strip articles of the first plurality of strip articles in the first storage volume is inserted into one of the second plurality of strip articles in the second storage volume, and each pair of adjacent strip articles of the second plurality of strip articles in the second storage volume is inserted into one of the first plurality of strip articles in the first storage volume.

10. The packaging of claim 9, wherein the size and shape of the parallel corrugations are configured such that the first plurality of strip articles and the second plurality of strip articles can be arranged to be substantially coplanar with each other.

11. The packaging according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the material sheet of the internal divider portion is made of cardboard.

12. The packaging according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the first shell portion and the second shell portion are made of cardboard.

13. The packaging according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the first shell portion and the second shell portion and the internal divider portion are made of cardboard, and wherein the first storage volume and the second storage volume are independently hermetically sealed to be protected from external atmosphere before the packaging is first opened.

14. The packaging according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the peripheral flange of the first shell portion and the peripheral flange of the second shell portion are provided with non-overlapping tab portions at one edge of the packaging, each tab portion being configured as a pull tab to facilitate opening the packaging.

15. A method for packaging strip-shaped consumable articles, comprising the following steps: A first shell portion and a second shell portion are provided, each of the first shell portion and the second shell portion including a recessed tray having an outwardly extending peripheral flange; An internal partition portion is provided, the internal partition portion comprising a sheet of material having an outwardly extending peripheral flange; Place the first plurality of strip-shaped consumable items in the recessed tray of the first shell portion; The internal divider portion is arranged above the first plurality of strip consumable articles in the recessed tray of the first shell portion, such that the outwardly extending peripheral flange of the internal divider portion contacts the outwardly extending peripheral flange of the first shell portion. Place a second plurality of strip-shaped consumable articles on the exposed surface of the internal partition portion; The second shell portion is arranged above the second plurality of strip consumable articles, such that the second plurality of strip consumable articles are received in the recessed tray of the second shell portion, and such that the outwardly extending peripheral flange of the second shell portion contacts the outwardly extending peripheral flange of the internal separator portion. as well as The corresponding outwardly extending peripheral flanges are joined together to form an airtight package.

Images