Packaging for consumer goods

Abstract

A package for receiving a consumable article. The package comprises a first portion defining a receptacle for receiving the consumable article, a second portion, and a tab portion. The package comprises a closed first configuration in which the tab portion is attached to both the first portion and the second portion to prevent movement of the first portion relative to the second portion. From the first configuration of the package, the tab portion is configured to be detached from the second portion but is still attached to the first portion to define a second configuration of the package. Thereby, from the second configuration of the package, the first portion is configured to move relative to the second portion to allow the package to move towards an open third configuration in which the receptacle is operable to be exposed.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to packaging for consumable articles, such as consumable articles associated with an aerosol generation system (including components of the aerosol generation system, such as consumables including a reservoir containing an aerosolizable material configured to be aerosolized by the aerosol generation system in use to generate an aerosol for inhalation by a user). Background Technology

[0002] There are existing packaging options for containing consumable items in a manner that allows them to be stored (e.g., in a store) before being used / purchased by the end user.

[0003] A potential drawback of existing packaging in the above respects is that it can often be difficult to know whether the packaging has been opened or otherwise tampered with before it is sold to the end consumer, unless some form of additional layer is added to the packaging (such as a layer of "transparent" outer plastic film arranged in layers on the packaging).

[0004] Therefore, this paper describes various methods that attempt to help address or mitigate some of the problems discussed above by providing packaging that eliminates the need for such an external plastic film layer and may employ tamper-evident labeling functionality. Summary of the Invention

[0005] According to a first aspect of certain embodiments, a package for receiving consumable articles is provided, the package comprising:

[0006] The first part is a receiving unit specifically for receiving consumable items;

[0007] Part Two; and

[0008] Film montage section;

[0009] The packaging includes a closed first configuration in which a pull tab is attached to both a first portion and a second portion to prevent the first portion from moving relative to the second portion; and

[0010] In this configuration, starting with the first configuration of the packaging, the pull tab is configured to be separate from the second part, but still attached to the first part, in order to define the second configuration of the packaging;

[0011] In this configuration, starting from the second configuration of the packaging, the first part is configured to move relative to the second part to allow the packaging to move toward an open third configuration in which the receiving part can be operated to be exposed.

[0012] According to a second aspect of certain embodiments, a method for removing consumable items located within a receiving section of a first portion of a package according to the foregoing aspect is provided, the method comprising:

[0013] Starting from the first configuration of the packaging, pull the pull tab to separate the pull tab from the second part of the packaging, thereby positioning the packaging in the second configuration, wherein the consumable items in the first configuration are located in the receiving section of the first part;

[0014] Starting from the second configuration of the packaging, pull the pull tab to move the first part relative to the second part, thereby positioning the packaging in the third configuration.

[0015] According to a third aspect of certain embodiments, a label is provided configured to form part of packaging for receiving consumable items, the label comprising:

[0016] The first part defines an adhesive surface configured to adhere to a sleeve portion of the packaging; and

[0017] The film breakdown section includes:

[0018] The first end is configured to adhere to the first part of the packaging; and

[0019] The second end is opposite to the first end;

[0020] The second end of the pull tab portion is attached to the first portion of the label, and the pull tab portion includes at least one breakable area to facilitate separation of the pull tab portion from the first portion of the label.

[0021] It will be understood that the features and aspects of the invention described above with respect to various aspects of the invention are equally applicable to embodiments of the invention according to other aspects of the invention, and can be suitably combined with them, not only in the specific combinations described herein. Attached Figure Description

[0022] Embodiments of the invention will now be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0023] Figure 1A A package comprising a first portion, a second portion, and a pull tab portion according to certain embodiments of the present disclosure is shown, and a package in a first configuration in which the pull tab portion is attached to the first portion and the second portion of the package is shown;

[0024] Figure 1B Some embodiments according to this disclosure are shown. Figure 1A The packaging is shown, and it is illustrated how the packaging moves from a first configuration to a second configuration in which the pull tab is configured to separate from the second part of the packaging, but remains attached to the first part of the packaging;

[0025] Figure 1C Some embodiments according to this disclosure are shown. Figure 1B The packaging is enlarged, with a focus on the pull tab section; and

[0026] Figure 2 Some embodiments according to this disclosure are shown. Figures 1A to 1C The packaging is shown in an open third configuration, where the first part of the packaging moves / slides relative to the second part of the packaging due to the pull tab being pulled, thus placing the packaging in the third configuration. Detailed Implementation

[0027] This document discusses / describes aspects and features of certain examples and implementations. Some aspects and features of certain examples and implementations can be conventionally implemented, and for the sake of brevity, these aspects and features are not discussed / described in detail. Therefore, it will be understood that aspects and features of the devices and methods discussed herein that are not described in detail can be implemented using any conventional techniques for implementing such aspects and features.

[0028] This disclosure relates to packaging 10 for receiving consumable article 100. It is contemplated that this packaging can be applied to any desired consumable article 100. Specific examples of consumable article 100 may take the form of an aerosol generation system 100A and / or consumables (cartridges) for such an aerosol generation system 100A, wherein the consumable includes a reservoir containing aerosolizable material. However, for completeness, consumable article 100 may also include fresh products such as chewing tobacco, snuff, or oral products. The term "oral product" can be understood to include oral products made from or derived from tobacco, containing tobacco, or not containing tobacco, and intended for human use. In some embodiments, such oral products may also be understood to include oral products containing nicotine.

[0029] The package 10 includes: a first part 12, optionally defining a receiving section R for receiving consumable items 100; a second part 14; and a pull tab part 16. (See reference) Figures 1A to 1C According to the disclosed content, the package 10 includes a closed first configuration C1 in which a pull tab portion 16 is attached to a first portion 12 and a second portion 14, which prevents the first portion 12 from moving relative to the second portion 14 in the first configuration C1.

[0030] Starting with the first configuration C1 of package 100, as per reference Figure 1B and Figure 1C As shown, the pull tab portion 16 is configured to be separate from the second portion 14, but still attached to the first portion 14, to define the second configuration C2 of the package 10.

[0031] Starting with the second configuration C2 of package 10, as referenced Figures 1B to 1C and Figure 2 As shown, the first part 12 is then configured to move relative to the second part 14 to allow the package 10 to move to the third open configuration (as shown). Figure 2 (as shown in the image).

[0032] Therefore, at a general level, the packaging 10 is configured such that the pull tab portion 16 operates to perform two functions. The pull tab portion 16 first acts as a means to prevent the packaging from moving to its third configuration C3, unless the pull tab portion is separated or peeled off from the second portion 14 (according to...). Figure 1B and Figure 1C (See arrow A1 shown). Therefore, this effectively prevents the packaging 10 from being unintentionally opened before it is used by the user. Secondly, the pull tab portion 16 acts as a tamper indicator / function to indicate whether the packaging has previously been moved to a third configuration. In this regard, if this is the case, the pull tab portion 16 will detach or peel off from the second portion 14. However, if the packaging has not previously been moved to a third configuration, it is evident from the pull tab portion 16 that the pull tab portion will still be attached to the first portion 12 and the second portion 14 (e.g., as shown). Figures 1A to 1C (As shown in the diagram). In other words, as can be seen from the first configuration C1 of the packaging 10, the pull tab portion 16 can be configured to be irreversibly separated from the second portion 14, but still attached to the first portion 12, to define the second configuration C2 of the packaging. Thus, once the pull tab portion 16 is separated from the second portion 14, it is impossible to reattach the pull tab portion 16 to the second portion 14.

[0033] Regarding the possible geometries / shapes of each of the first part 12 and the second part 14, it can be appreciated that these geometries / shapes may depend on the shape of any consumable article 100 configured to be housed within the first part 12 (or within any alternatively adopted receiving portion R of the first part). Although according to some embodiments, such as Figures 1A to 2 As shown in those embodiments, it can be seen that the second portion 14 may include a sleeve 20, which, in the first configuration C1 of the package 10, is configured to at least partially surround the first portion 12. Relatedly, in some embodiments, again as shown in the figures, the first portion 12 may define a substantially cubic shape, within which any optionally positioned receiving portion R of the first portion 12 may be located. With such embodiments, and possibly other embodiments, it can then be understood that this may allow, in the first configuration of the package, an embodiment in which the first portion 12 is at least partially or entirely within the second portion 14 (e.g., as shown in the embodiments associated with the figures). Such embodiments may then additionally or alternatively result in, in the third configuration C3 of the package 10, the first portion 12 being at least partially or entirely outside the second portion 14 (again, e.g., as shown in the embodiments associated with the figures).

[0034] Regardless of the shape of the first part 12 or the second part 14, it can be recognized that in embodiments employing the receiving part R, the receiving part R can be configured to be at least partially or completely covered by the second part 14 in the first configuration C1 and / or the second configuration C2 of the package. This better suppresses and prevents any consumable item 100 from approaching the receiving part R until the package 10 is in the third configuration C3 (e.g., ...). Figure 2 (As shown).

[0035] Regardless of the geometry / shape of each of the first part 12 and the second part 14, as previously stated, once the package is in the second configuration C2, due to the pull tab portion 16 separating or peeling from the second part 14 (according to... Figure 1B and Figure 1C As shown by arrow A1), from the second configuration C2 of package 10, the first portion 12 is configured to move relative to the second portion 14, thereby allowing package 10 to move to the open third configuration C3. As can be seen from the embodiments shown in the figures, it can be appreciated that in some narrower embodiments, this movement can be a sliding motion of the first portion 12 relative to the second portion 14. This sliding movement can... Figures 1B to 1C and Figure 2 As can be seen at least by arrow A2 in these figures, the sliding / movement of the first part 12 relative to the second part 14 is shown.

[0036] Having understood the general operation of the package 10 and any of its pull tab portions 16 described above, further optional details of the pull tab portions 16 will now be described. In view of this, and regarding the potential shape of the pull tab portions 16, the shape of the pull tab portions 16 can obviously depend on the shape to which the pull tab portions 16 are initially attached. Although, according to some embodiments, such as those shown in the figures, some embodiments may include a pull tab portion 16 comprising a first end 16A and a second end 16B opposite to the first end 16A. In such embodiments, in all the first configurations C1, second configurations C2, and third configurations C3 of the package 10, the first end 16A may then remain attached to the first portion 12. Thus, in the first configuration C1 of the package 10, the second end 16B may be attached to the second portion 14, while in the second configurations C2 and third configurations C3 of the package 10, it is separated from the second portion 14 (as can be seen in the figures).

[0037] According to some embodiments, when the packaging is in the first configuration C1, the pull tab portion 16 may extend above the edge 14E of the second portion 14 of the packaging 10, and / or may be curved around that edge. This arrangement of the pull tab portion 16 can be seen in the embodiment shown in the accompanying drawings, and it has been found that the more prominent viewing position of the pull tab portion above the edge 14E of the second portion 14 allows the user to more quickly determine whether the pull tab portion 16 has been tampered with.

[0038] Continuing with the possible features of the pull tab portion 16, the pull tab portion can be flexible. This flexibility will better facilitate the movement of the pull tab portion 16 between various configurations of the package, and will also facilitate the implementation described above, wherein, in the first configuration C1 of the package 10, the pull tab portion 16 bends around the edge 14E of the second portion 14.

[0039] Regarding any thickness adopted for the pull tab portion, it should be understood that this thickness can depend to a great extent on the dimensions and geometry of the first portion 12 and the second portion 14 configured for use together. Although particularly in embodiments (such as those shown in the figures), or, for example, in embodiments where the size of the consumable article 100 is hand-held to form a package 10 of a corresponding size, it has been found that a particularly suitable maximum thickness T for the pull tab portion 16 is... MAX It can be at least 0.3mm but no more than 3mm. The term "maximum thickness" here can be understood to mean that the specific thickness of the pull tab portion 16 is no greater than the specified maximum thickness T. MAX Similarly, regarding some other possible dimensions of the pull tab portion in some related additional or alternative embodiments, it has been found that a particularly suitable maximum length L of the pull tab portion 16 is... MAX (Limited to the distance from the end of the first end 16A to the end of the second end 16B, such as...) Figure 1B (As shown) may not exceed 85mm. For any maximum width W of the pull tab portion in these possible implementations... MAX The pull tab portion has a particularly suitable maximum width W. MAX It may not exceed 40mm, a width found to be particularly suitable for allowing users to easily grip the pull tab portion 16 without having to make the pull tab portion 16 too wide. Similarly, the terms "maximum width" or "maximum length" here can be understood to mean that the specific width or length of the pull tab portion 16 is not greater than the specified maximum width or length.

[0040] However, in addition to the possible geometry of the pull tab portion, some embodiments of the packaging may define a recess 22 in the first configuration C1 of the packaging 10, adjacent to the pull tab portion 16 and the second portion 14 of the packaging 10, to allow a user to grasp one end of the pull tab portion 16 (such as the second end 16B) to separate the pull tab portion 16 from the second portion 14 of the packaging 10. In the embodiment shown in the figures, the recess 22 can at least... Figure 1B and Figure 1C As can be seen, the recess is shown as elongated, and / or relatedly corresponds to the width of the pull tab portion 16.

[0041] Regarding the attachment of the pull tab portion to the second portion 14, when the package is in the first configuration 10, the pull tab portion 16 may include at least one side 24 that is attached to or adjacent to the second portion 14 of the package 10 in the first configuration C1. In some narrower embodiments, such as those shown in the figures, the pull tab portion 16 may include at least two sides 24A; 24B that are attached to or adjacent to the second portion 14 of the package 10 in the first configuration C1.

[0042] Conversely, to facilitate separation of the pull tab portion 16 from the second portion 14, the pull tab portion 16 may optionally include at least one fault zone 26 to facilitate separation of the pull tab portion 16 from the second portion 14 of the package 10. With regard to the use of any such fault zone 26, in some narrower embodiments, any such fault zone 26 may optionally include an array of grooves located in the pull tab portion 16, or in some embodiments (such as those shown in the figures) may optionally include an array of slits 28 located in the pull tab portion 16. By implementing such a fault zone 26 (which is shown in the embodiments of the figures as being located around at least one side 24; 24A; 24B of the pull tab portion 16, as shown in the figures)... Figure 1C As shown in the best example), it can be seen that when the user subsequently pulls the pull tab 16 (according to...) Figure 1B and Figure 1CArrow A1 (as shown) provides a breakable zone 26 to facilitate movement of the pull tab portion 16 in the intended direction and any peeling, and also reduces the force required for the user to move / peel the pull tab portion 16 in this manner. Relatedly, and in some narrower embodiments (such as those shown in the figures), each breakable zone 26 (or the groove / slit of the breakable zone) may extend (partially or completely) in a first direction D1A; D1B parallel to a second direction D2, the first portion 12 being configured to move relative to the second portion 14 along this second direction during movement of the package 10 between the second configuration C2 and the third configuration C3. Thus, and by keeping these directions D1A; D1B; D2 parallel to each other, any momentum generated by the user during the initial separation / peeling of the pull tab portion 16 between the first configuration C1 and the second configuration C2 of the package 10 can then be transmitted in the same direction to the movement of the first portion 12 relative to the second portion 14 along the second direction D2 as the package 10 moves from the second configuration C2 to the open third configuration C3. In other words, by keeping these directions D1A; D1B; D2 parallel to each other, the user can easily peel the pull tab portion 16 from the first configuration C1, and then continuously pull the pull tab portion 16 along the same direction of movement, all in a single movement, so that the user can conveniently move the package 10 from the first configuration C1 to the second configuration C2 and finally to the third configuration C3 entirely by a single continuous pull of the pull tab portion 16.

[0043] Continuing with respect to the pull tab portion 16, and regarding the attachment of the pull tab portion to the first portion 12, a convenient implementation could be, at least in the first configuration C1 (and possibly also in the second configuration C2 and the third configuration C3), attaching the pull tab portion 16 to the first portion 12 of the package 10 via the adhesive surface 30 of the pull tab portion 16. However, it is apparent that other forms of attachment could be employed, such as via a fastening device between the pull tab portion 16 and the first portion 12, or some other attachment mechanism.

[0044] Regarding the attachment of the pull tab portion 16 to the second portion 14, although not essential, in the first configuration C1 of the package 10, some specific embodiments (such as, for example, those shown in the figures) allow the pull tab portion 16 to be attached to the label 32 of the package 10, wherein the label 32 may form part of the second portion 14 of the package 10 in some embodiments. With regard to this embodiment, this facilitates some particularly convenient implementations, whereby, during the initial manufacturing of the package 10, the pull tab portion 16 can be applied to the package 10 in a single operation by applying the label 32 together with the pull tab portion 16 to the first portion 12 and the second portion 14 of the package to form the first configuration of the package 10. More specifically, in such an embodiment, the package 10 can initially be formed by positioning the second portion 14 in its position relative to the first position 12, for example, according to... Figure 1A and Figure 1B The position shown indicates that, however, label 32 and pull tab portion 16 are initially absent / attached to packaging 10. From this position, label 32 and pull tab portion 16 (the pull tab portion is attached to label 32, or in some narrower embodiments, may be integral with the label) can then be attached to the second portion 14 and the first portion 12 of the packaging, respectively, to form as shown. Figures 1A to 1C The first configuration C1 is shown. Regarding the use of adhesive, this attachment of the label 32 and the pull tab portion 16 to the package 10 may include: adhering the pull tab portion 16 to a first portion 12 of the package 10, and then adhering the label 32 to a second portion 14 of the package 10 to form as shown. Figures 1A to 1C The first configuration C1 is shown.

[0045] By providing a label 32 with an attached pull tab portion 16, such as integrally formed with the label 32, this embodiment allows for the provision of a label 32 configured to form part of a package 10 for receiving consumable articles 10, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. In these embodiments, the label 32 includes a first portion 34 defining an adhesive surface 36 configured to adhere to a sleeve portion of the package 10 (such as the second portion 14 of the package 10 described above). The label 32 then includes a pull tab portion 16, which includes a first end 16A configured to adhere to the first portion 12 of the package 10; and a second end 16B opposite to the first end 16A. Thus, the second end 16B of the pull tab portion 16 can then be attached to the first portion 34 of the label 32, such that the pull tab portion 16 includes at least one breakable region 26 to facilitate separation of the pull tab portion 16 from the first portion 34 of the label 32. For example, such an embodiment of the label is as follows: Figure 1B and Figure 1C The implementation method is shown below.

[0046] With regard to any label 32 adopted in the above-described manner, it can be appreciated that in such an implementation, the pull tab portion 16 may be initially attached to the label 32 using any of the techniques previously described with respect to attaching the pull tab portion 16 to the second portion 14 of the package 10, and may obviously be used in conjunction with other optional features associated with the pull tab portion 16 as previously described, such as any combination of the following: i) recess 22 or ii) slit 28 or array of grooves in the pull tab portion 16 (in some specific embodiments, the slit or array of grooves may be located in the second end 16B of the pull tab portion 16).

[0047] In the case of any label 32, it will be appreciated that in the first configuration C1 of the package 10, the pull tab portion 16 may not necessarily adhere to the label 32. This can be the case, for example, in embodiments where the pull tab portion 16 is attached to the label 32 in some other way, such as integrally with the label, which avoids the need for an adhesive between the pull tab portion 16 and the label 32 in the first configuration C1 of the package 10.

[0048] Similarly, with regard to any label 32 being used as part of the packaging 10, it can be appreciated that, upon moving from the first configuration C1 to the second configuration C2 of the packaging 10, the pull tab portion 16 can be configured to pull off and detach from the label 32 (or specifically, the first portion 34 of the label 32). Thus, when the pull tab portion 16 detaches, the label 32 (or specifically, the first portion 34 of the label 32) remains adhered to the surface 38 of the second portion 14 of the packaging 10.

[0049] Based on the foregoing disclosure describing packaging 10 and any labels 32 used therewith, it should be understood that related methods for using packaging 10 and / or labels 32 are also provided herein. Thus, one such method would include opening packaging 10 from its initial first configuration C1 to a third configuration C3. For example, a method for removing consumable item 100 located within the receiving portion R of a first portion 12 of packaging 10 would then be provided, wherein the method includes: starting from the first configuration C1 of packaging 10 (where consumable item 100 is located within the receiving portion R of the first portion 12), pulling a pull tab portion 16 of packaging 10 to separate the pull tab portion 16 from a second portion 14 of packaging 10, thereby positioning packaging 10 in a second configuration C2. Starting from this second configuration C2 of packaging 10, the method could then further include: pulling the pull tab portion 16 to move the first portion 12 relative to the second portion 14, thereby positioning packaging 10 in a third configuration C3. According to some more specific embodiments of this method, the step of pulling the pull tab portion 16 between the second configuration C2 and the third configuration C3 of the packaging 10 may further include: grasping the second portion 14 of the packaging 10 while the first portion 12 is moved to prevent the second portion 14 from moving when the first portion 12 is moved. Such a grasping action (e.g., by a user's hand) can be seen in embodiments associated with the accompanying drawings. Figure 1B In the middle, the "grasp" arrow indicator is depicted on the two opposite sides of the second part 14.

[0050] Regarding any other potential implementations or modifications to the above disclosure, it is understood that in some embodiments, the pull tab portion 16 or any part of the packaging 10 (such as the first portion 12 or the second portion 14) may include: a mark 90 indicating how to operate or move the pull tab portion 16 to move the packaging from the first configuration C1 to the second configuration C2; and / or a mark 92 indicating how to move the packaging 10 from the second configuration C2 to the third configuration C3. For example, any such mark 90; 92 may be an image / arrow 94 (e.g., as shown in the image). Figure 1B As shown in the relevant embodiments, each mark 90; 92 or arrow 94 is located on the surface 96 of the pull tab portion 16.

[0051] In understanding the foregoing, a package for receiving consumable items is described accordingly, the package comprising:

[0052] The first part is a receiving unit specifically for receiving consumable items;

[0053] Part Two; and

[0054] Film montage section;

[0055] The packaging includes a closed first configuration in which a pull tab is attached to both a first portion and a second portion to prevent the first portion from moving relative to the second portion; and

[0056] In this configuration, starting with the first configuration of the packaging, the pull tab is configured to be separate from the second part, but still attached to the first part, in order to define the second configuration of the packaging;

[0057] In this configuration, starting from the second configuration of the packaging, the first part is configured to move relative to the second part to allow the packaging to move toward an open third configuration in which the receiving part can be operated to be exposed.

[0058] A method for removing a consumable item located within a receiving section of a first part of a package pursuant to the foregoing terms is also described, the method comprising:

[0059] Starting from the first configuration of the packaging, the pull tab is pulled to separate the pull tab from the second part of the packaging, thereby positioning the packaging in the second configuration, wherein the consumable items in the first configuration are located within the receiving section of the first part; and

[0060] Starting from the second configuration of the packaging, pull the pull tab to move the first part relative to the second part, thereby positioning the packaging in the third configuration.

[0061] A label configured to form part of packaging for receiving consumable items is also described, the label comprising:

[0062] The first part defines an adhesive surface configured to adhere to a sleeve portion of the packaging; and

[0063] The film breakdown section includes:

[0064] The first end is configured to adhere to the first part of the packaging; and

[0065] The second end is opposite to the first end;

[0066] The second end of the pull tab portion is attached to the first portion of the label, and the pull tab portion includes at least one breakable area to facilitate separation of the pull tab portion from the first portion of the label.

[0067] A package 10 for receiving consumable article 100 is also described. Package 10 includes: a first portion 12 defining a receiving section R for receiving consumable article 100; a second portion 14; and a pull tab portion 16. Package 10 includes a closed first configuration C1 in which the pull tab portion 16 is attached to both the first portion 12 and the second portion 14 to prevent the first portion 12 from moving relative to the second portion 14. Starting from the first configuration C1 of package 10, the pull tab portion 16 is configured to separate from the second portion 14 but remain attached to the first portion 12 to define a second configuration C2 of package 10. Thus, starting from the second configuration C2 of package 10, the first portion 12 is configured to move relative to the second portion 14 to allow package 10 to move toward an open third configuration C3 in which the receiving section R is operable to be exposed.

[0068] To address various problems and advance the field, this disclosure illustrates, by way of description, various embodiments in which the claimed invention can be practiced. The advantages and features of this disclosure are merely representative samples of embodiments and are not exhaustive and / or exclusive. They are intended only to aid in understanding and teaching the claimed invention. It should be understood that the advantages, embodiments, examples, functions, features, structures, and / or other aspects of this disclosure should not be considered as limitations on this disclosure as defined by the claims or on equivalents of the claims, and other embodiments may be utilized and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the claims. In addition to those specifically described herein, various embodiments may suitably include, constitute, or substantially constitute various combinations of, the disclosed elements, components, features, portions, steps, devices, etc., and therefore it will be understood that features of dependent claims may be combined with features of independent claims in combinations other than those expressly indicated in the claims. For example, any dependent claim relating to independent claim 1 (or other independent claims) may be used as a corresponding feature of any related independent claim listed in the claims, as needed. It is also apparent that this disclosure may include other inventions not currently claimed but which may be claimed in the future.

[0069] Therefore, this document also provides embodiments set forth in the following numbered clauses, and it is obvious that the features of these embodiments can be implemented in any combination as needed in any claim:

[0070] 1. A package for receiving consumable articles, the package comprising:

[0071] The first part is a receiving unit specifically for receiving consumable items;

[0072] Part Two; and

[0073] Film montage section;

[0074] The packaging includes a closed first configuration in which a pull tab is attached to both a first part and a second part to prevent the first part from moving relative to the second part.

[0075] and

[0076] In this configuration, starting with the first configuration of the packaging, the pull tab is configured to be separate from the second part, but still attached to the first part, in order to define the second configuration of the packaging;

[0077] In this configuration, starting from the second configuration of the packaging, the first part is configured to move relative to the second part to allow the packaging to move to an open third configuration, in which the receiving part can be operated to be exposed.

[0078] 2. The packaging according to Clause 1, wherein the second part includes a sleeve configured to at least partially surround the first part in the first configuration of the packaging.

[0079] 3. The packaging according to any of the foregoing clauses, wherein, in the first configuration of the packaging, the receiving portion is at least partially or completely covered by the second portion.

[0080] 4. The packaging according to any of the foregoing clauses, wherein, in the second configuration of the packaging, the receiving portion is at least partially or completely covered by the second portion.

[0081] 5. The packaging according to any of the foregoing clauses, wherein, starting from the second configuration of the packaging, the first portion is configured to slide relative to the second portion to allow the packaging to move to an open third configuration.

[0082] 6. The packaging according to any of the foregoing clauses, wherein the pull tab portion includes a first end, which remains attached to the first portion in all first, second and third configurations of the packaging.

[0083] 7. The packaging according to Clause 6, wherein the pull tab portion includes a second end opposite to the first end, which, in a first configuration of the packaging, is attached to the second portion;

[0084] In the second and third configurations of the packaging, the second end of the pull tab is separated from the second part.

[0085] 8. The packaging according to any of the foregoing clauses, wherein, in a first configuration of the packaging, the pull tab portion extends above and / or curves around the edge of a second portion of the packaging.

[0086] 9. The packaging according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein, in a first configuration of the packaging, the packaging defines a recess adjacent to the pull tab portion and the second portion of the packaging for allowing a user to grasp one end of the pull tab portion to separate the pull tab portion from the second portion of the packaging.

[0087] 10. The packaging according to any of the foregoing clauses, wherein, in a first configuration of the packaging, the pull tab portion includes at least one side, which is attached to or adjacent to a second portion of the packaging.

[0088] 11. The packaging according to Clause 10, wherein, in a first configuration of the packaging, the pull tab portion includes at least two sides, which are attached to or adjacent to a second portion of the packaging.

[0089] 12. The packaging according to any of the foregoing clauses, wherein the pull tab portion includes at least one breakable area for facilitating separation of the pull tab portion from a second part of the packaging.

[0090] 13. The packaging according to Clause 12, wherein each breakable zone includes an array of slits located in the pull tab portion.

[0091] 14. Packaged in accordance with Clause 12 or 13, wherein each breakable zone comprises an array of grooves located in the pull tab portion.

[0092] 15. A package according to any one of clauses 12 to 14, wherein each breakable zone extends in a first direction parallel to a second direction, and a first portion is configured to move relative to a second portion in the second direction during movement of the package between a second configuration and a third configuration.

[0093] 16. Packaging according to any of Clauses 12 to 15 when further subject to Clause 10, wherein at least one breakable area is located around at least one side of the pull tab portion.

[0094] 17. The packaging according to any of the foregoing clauses, wherein, in a first configuration of the packaging, the pull tab portion is attached to a first part of the packaging via the adhesive surface of the pull tab portion.

[0095] 18. Packaging according to any of the foregoing clauses, wherein, in a first configuration of the packaging, a pull tab is attached to a label on a second part of the packaging.

[0096] 19. Packaging in accordance with Clause 18, wherein, in the first configuration of the packaging, the pull tab portion is not adhered to the label.

[0097] 20. Packaging in accordance with Clause 18 or 19, wherein, in the first configuration of the packaging, the pull tab portion forms an integral part with the label.

[0098] 21. Packaging according to any one of clauses 18 to 20, wherein, starting from the first configuration of the packaging, the pull tab portion is configured to be pulled open and separated from the label.

[0099] 22. Packaging according to any one of clauses 18 to 21, wherein, in a first configuration of the packaging, a label is affixed to the surface of a second part of the packaging.

[0100] 23. The packaging according to any of the foregoing clauses, wherein, in a first configuration of the packaging, the first part is at least partially or entirely within the second part.

[0101] 24. Packaging according to any of the foregoing clauses, wherein, in a third configuration of the packaging, the first part is at least partially or entirely outside the second part.

[0102] 25. The packaging according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the pull tab portion has a maximum thickness of at least 0.3 mm but not more than 3 mm.

[0103] 26. The packaging according to any of the foregoing clauses, wherein the pull tab portion is flexible.

[0104] 27. Packaging according to any of the foregoing clauses, wherein consumable articles include at least one of the following:

[0105] i) Aerosol generation system; and / or

[0106] ii) Consumables for aerosol generation systems, wherein the consumables include a reservoir containing aerosolizable materials.

[0107] 28. A method for removing a consumable item located within a receiving section of a first part of a package pursuant to any of the foregoing provisions, the method comprising:

[0108] Starting from the first configuration of the packaging, the pull tab is pulled to separate the pull tab from the second part of the packaging, thereby positioning the packaging in the second configuration, wherein the consumable items in the first configuration are located within the receiving section of the first part; and

[0109] Starting from the second configuration of the packaging, pull the pull tab to move the first part relative to the second part, thereby positioning the packaging in the third configuration.

[0110] 29. The method according to Clause 28, wherein pulling the pull tab portion between the second and third configurations of the packaging further includes: grasping the second portion of the packaging while moving the first portion to prevent the second portion from moving while the first portion is moving.

[0111] 30. The method according to any one of clauses 28 to 29, wherein pulling the pull tab to separate the pull tab from the second part of the packaging comprises: separating the pull tab from the label of the second part of the packaging;

[0112] Separating the pull tab from the label separates the pull tab from the second part of the packaging.

[0113] 31. The method according to any one of clauses 28 to 30, wherein, in a first configuration of the packaging, the first part is at least partially within the second part.

[0114] 32. The method according to any one of clauses 28 to 31, wherein, in the third configuration of the packaging, the third part is at least partially outside the second part.

[0115] 33. The method according to any one of clauses 28 to 32, wherein the consumable item includes at least one of the following:

[0116] i) Aerosol generation system; and / or

[0117] ii) Consumables for aerosol generation systems, wherein the consumables include a reservoir containing aerosolizable materials.

[0118] 34. A label configured to form part of packaging for receiving consumable items, the label comprising:

[0119] The first part defines an adhesive surface configured to adhere to a portion of the packaging, such as optionally to a second part or a sleeve portion; and

[0120] The film breakdown section includes:

[0121] The first end is configured to adhere to the first part of the packaging; and

[0122] The second end is opposite to the first end;

[0123] The second end of the pull tab portion is attached to the first portion of the label, and the pull tab portion includes at least one breakable area to facilitate separation of the pull tab portion from the first portion of the label.

[0124] 35. The label pursuant to Clause 34, wherein the label defines a recess adjacent to the pull tab portion and the first portion of the label for allowing a user to grasp a second end of the pull tab portion while the pull tab portion is attached to the first portion of the label.

[0125] 36. A label pursuant to Clause 34 or 35, wherein the pull tab portion is attached to the first portion of the label by forming an integral part with the first portion of the label.

[0126] 37. The label according to any one of clauses 34 to 36, wherein each breakable zone includes an array of slits located at the second end of the pull tab portion.

[0127] 38. The label according to any one of clauses 34 to 37, wherein each breakable zone includes an array of grooves located at the second end of the pull tab portion.

[0128] 39. A label according to any one of clauses 34 to 38, wherein each breakable zone is adjacent to the first part of the label.

[0129] For the sake of completeness, and with regard to any consumable article 100 as described herein, it will also be understood that in cases where the consumable article 100 has the potential for leakage, such as consumable articles containing aerosolizable materials, or containing any fluids that may leak from the consumable article while it is stored in the relevant compartment, in some embodiments of these implementations, the consumable article 100 may be enclosed while located in the receiving section R to prevent any contents of the consumable article 100 from leaking into the receiving section R. This may be, for example, with... Figure 2 In the relevant embodiments, the consumable item 100, in the form of an aerosol generation system 100A, can be contained in a sealed container. Obviously, any form of sealed container can be used, such as a blister pack or a sealed bag surrounding the consumable item (aerosol generation system 100A). In each case, to facilitate easy access to the sealed container, the sealed container may include a removable / openable portion (e.g., a peelable / flattened membrane) to serve as an entry point for the user to access the consumable item 100 located inside the container.

Claims

1. A package for receiving consumable articles, the package comprising: The first part is defined as a receiving unit for receiving the consumable items; Part Two; as well as Film montage section; The packaging includes a closed first configuration in which the pull tab portion is attached to both the first portion and the second portion to prevent the first portion from moving relative to the second portion; and Wherein, starting from the first configuration of the packaging, the pull tab portion is configured to be separate from the second portion, but still attached to the first portion, to define the second configuration of the packaging; In this configuration, starting with the second configuration of the packaging, the first portion is configured to move relative to the second portion to allow the packaging to move toward an open third configuration, in which the receiving portion is operable to be exposed.

2. The packaging according to claim 1, wherein, The second portion includes a sleeve configured to at least partially surround the first portion in the first configuration of the package.

3. The packaging according to claim 1, wherein, Starting with the second configuration of the package, the first portion is configured to slide relative to the second portion to allow the package to move toward the opened third configuration.

4. The packaging according to claim 1, wherein, The pull tab portion includes a first end, which remains attached to the first portion in the first, second, and third configurations of the packaging.

5. The packaging according to claim 4, wherein, The pull tab portion includes a second end opposite to the first end, and in the first configuration of the packaging, the second end is attached to the second portion; In both the second and third configurations of the packaging, the second end of the pull tab portion is separated from the second portion.

6. The packaging according to claim 1, wherein, In the first configuration of the packaging, the packaging defines a recess adjacent to the pull tab portion and the second portion of the packaging to allow a user to grasp one end of the pull tab portion, thereby separating the pull tab portion from the second portion of the packaging.

7. The packaging according to claim 1, wherein, The pull tab portion includes at least one breakable area to facilitate separation of the pull tab portion from the second part of the package.

8. The packaging according to claim 7, wherein, Each of the said fragile zones includes an array of slits located in the pull tab portion.

9. The packaging according to claim 7, wherein, Each of the said fragile regions extends in a first direction parallel to a second direction, and the first portion is configured to move relative to the second portion along the second direction during the movement of the package between the second configuration and the third configuration.

10. The packaging according to claim 1, wherein, In the first configuration of the packaging, the pull tab portion is attached to the label of the second portion of the packaging.

11. The packaging according to claim 10, wherein, In the first configuration of the packaging, the pull tab portion is integral with the label.

12. The packaging according to claim 10, wherein, Starting with the first configuration of the packaging, the pull tab is configured to be pulled away from the label and separated from the label.

13. The packaging according to claim 10, wherein, In the first configuration of the packaging, the label is adhered to the surface of the second portion of the packaging.

14. A method for removing a consumable item located within the receiving portion of the first portion of a package according to any preceding claim, the method comprising: Starting from the first configuration of the packaging, the pull tab portion is pulled to separate the pull tab portion from the second portion of the packaging, thereby positioning the packaging in the second configuration, wherein, in the first configuration, the consumable item is located within the receiving section of the first portion; and Starting from the second configuration of the packaging, the pull tab is pulled to move the first portion relative to the second portion, thereby positioning the packaging in the third configuration.

15. The method according to claim 14, wherein, The step of pulling the pull tab portion to separate the pull tab portion from the second part of the packaging includes: separating the pull tab portion from the label of the second part of the packaging; The action of separating the pull tab from the label causes the pull tab to separate from the second part of the packaging.

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