Container comprising a box portion, a lid portion and a plurality of aerosol-generating articles

Abstract

There is provided a container (100) of planar aerosol-generating articles (10). The container (100) comprises: an outer housing having an internal volume; and a plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles (10) disposed within the outer housing. The outer housing comprises: a box portion (102) having an access opening and comprising a box portion front wall (106) and a box portion rear wall (108); and a lid portion (104). The lid portion (104) is connected to the box portion (102) by a hinge line extending along a top edge of the box portion (102), and the lid portion (104) being moveable about the hinge line between: closed position, in which the lid portion (104) covers the access opening; and an open position, in which one or more of the planar aerosol-generating articles (10) can be removed through the access opening. The plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles (10) are arranged within the outer housing such that a first planar major face (12) of each planar aerosol-generating article (10) faces towards the box portion front wall (106).

Description

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a container of planar aerosol-generating articles.

[0002] A typical aerosol-generating system comprises an aerosol-generating device and an aerosol-generating article comprising an aerosol-generating substrate. In use, the aerosol-generating device is arranged to heat a heating element that is positioned near, or in contact with, the aerosol-generating substrate which causes the aerosol-generating substrate to heat up and release volatile compounds. These volatile compounds are then entrained in air that is drawn through the aerosol-generating article. As the volatile compounds cool, they condense to form an aerosol that can be inhaled by a consumer.

[0003] A typical aerosol-generating article may appear similar and have similar dimensions to a conventional cigarette. For example, such an aerosol-generating article may be substantially cylindrical and comprise an aerosol-generating substrate in addition to other components such as a mouthpiece filter element and a cooling element, which are arranged in the form of a rod and wrapped in a cigarette paper.

[0004] However, a significant portion of the aerosol-generating substrate in these cylindrical aerosol-generating articles may not be sufficiently heated to form an aerosol during use. This is undesirable since the insufficiently heated portion of the aerosol-generating substrate contributes to the cost of manufacture and transport of the aerosol-generating article but does not contribute to the aerosol delivered to the consumer. Moreover, the components of these cylindrical aerosol-generating articles normally need to have the same or very similar outer diameters so that they can be brought together, accurately positioned in axial alignment and wrapped in a cigarette paper. This can lead to increased cost and complexity of manufacture.

[0005] Planar aerosol-generating articles may be able to mitigate or overcome at least some of these disadvantages of substantially cylindrical aerosol-generating articles. However, existing methods and solutions for one or more of the manufacture, handling, and storage of substantially cylindrical aerosol-generating articles may not be suitable for planar aerosol-generating articles. This is because their size and shape differ from substantially cylindrical aerosol-generating articles.

[0006] It is an objective of the present disclosure to provide a means for storage of planar aerosol-generating articles. It is also objective of the present disclosure to provide such a means which can be implemented relatively efficiently and in a cost-effective fashion. It would also be desirable to provide a solution that can be implemented on existing apparatus without requiring extensive modifications.

[0007] According to the present disclosure, there is provided a container of planar aerosol-generating articles. The container may comprise an outer housing having an internal volume. The container may comprise a plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles disposed within the outer housing. The outer housing may comprise a box portion having an access opening. The box portion may comprise a box portion front wall. The box portion may comprise a box portion rear wall. The box portion may comprise first and second box portion side walls. The box portion may comprise a box portion bottom wall. The outer housing may comprise a lid portion. The lid portion may comprise a lid portion front wall. The lid portion may comprise a lid portion rear wall. The lid portion may comprise a lid portion top wall. The lid portion may comprise lid portion side walls extending between the lid portion front wall and the lid portion rear wall. The lid portion may be connected to the box portion by a hinge line. The hinge line may extend along a top edge of the box portion. The lid portion may be moveable about the hinge line between a closed position, in which the lid portion covers the access opening, and an open position, in which one or more of the planar aerosol-generating articles can be removed through the access opening. The plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles may be arranged within the outer housing such that a first planar major face of each planar aerosol-generating article faces towards the box portion front wall.

[0008] Typically, there is interstitial space between adjacent cylindrical aerosol-generating articles that are stored in a container due to their cylindrical shape. This interstitial space can assist in helping a consumer grip and remove one of the cylindrical aerosol-generating articles. However, planar aerosol-generating articles generally have a thickness less than both a length and a width of the planar aerosol-generating article and so are typically flat and thin. This means that planar aerosol-generating articles can be packed tightly in a container with reduced interstitial space compared to cylindrical aerosol-generating articles. In the present disclosure, to compensate for the reduction in interstitial space that assists in gripping the articles, the planar aerosol-generating articles are arranged in the container such that a first planar major face of each planar aerosol-generating article faces towards the box portion front wall. This maximises the surface area of the planar aerosol-generating articles that is easily accessible for gripping by a consumer when the hinged-lid is opened. Advantageously, this makes it easier for a consumer to grip the planar aerosol-generating articles when the hinged lid portion is in the open position.

[0009] Optionally, the plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles are arranged within the outer housing such that each planar aerosol-generating article abuts at least one other planar aerosol-generating article. Optionally, the plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles are arranged within the outer housing such that a planar major face of each planar aerosol-generating article abuts a planar major face of at least one other planar aerosol-generating article. Optionally, the plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles are arranged within the outer housing such that a side face of each planar aerosol-generating article abuts a side face of at least one other planar aerosol-generating article. Advantageously, these arrangements may allow the planar aerosol-generating articles to be tightly packed thereby ensuring that the internal volume of the outer housing is used efficiently. Additionally, these arrangements may allow the planar aerosol-generating articles to support one another and limit movement of the planar aerosol-generating articles within the container during transport, which may prevent damage to the planar aerosol-generating articles and may also assist in maintaining the first planar major face of each planar aerosol-generating article facing towards the box portion front wall.

[0010] Optionally, the plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles are arranged within the outer housing such that a second planar major face of each planar aerosol-generating article faces towards the box portion rear wall, the second planar major face of each planar aerosol-generating article being opposed to the first planar major face of each planar aerosol-generating article. Optionally, the first planar major face of each planar aerosol-generating article is substantially parallel to the box portion front wall. Optionally, the second planar major face of each planar aerosol-generating article is substantially parallel to the box portion rear wall. Advantageously, this arrangement may make it easier for a user to grip and withdraw a planar aerosol-generating article from the container.

[0011] Optionally, each planar aerosol-generating article is elongated and has a longitudinal axis, and wherein the plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles are arranged within the outer housing such that the longitudinal axis of each planar aerosol-generating article extends between the box portion bottom wall and the lid portion top wall when the lid portion is in the closed position. Advantageously, this may ensure that the planar aerosol-generating articles are accessible near the access opening and may prevent a consumer having to reach into the lower volume of the outer housing as the number of planar aerosol-generating articles in the container reduces.

[0012] Optionally, each planar aerosol-generating article may be arranged such that a length of each planar aerosol-generating article extends in a height direction of the container, a width of each planar aerosol-generating article extends in the width direction of the container, and a thickness of each planar aerosol-generating article extends in depth direction of the container. Advantageously, this may allow the planar aerosol-generating articles to be packed efficiently within the container.

[0013] Optionally, the plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles comprises a first group of planar aerosol-generating articles arranged in a first row and a second group of planar aerosol-generating articles arranged in a second row.

[0014] Optionally, the first row extends in a direction between the box portion front wall and the box portion back wall. Optionally, the first group of planar aerosol-generating articles has a front planar aerosol-generating article positioned adjacent to the box portion front wall and a rear planar aerosol-generating article positioned adjacent to the box portion rear wall. Optionally, the remaining planar aerosol-generating articles of the first group of planar aerosol-generating articles are positioned, or sandwiched, between the front planar aerosol-generating article of the first group and the rear planar aerosol-generating article of the first group.

[0015] Optionally, the second row extends in a direction between the box portion front wall and the box portion back wall. Optionally, the second group of planar aerosol-generating articles has a front planar aerosol-generating article positioned adjacent to the box portion front wall and a rear planar aerosol-generating article positioned adjacent to the box portion rear wall. Optionally, the remaining planar aerosol-generating articles of the second group of planar aerosol-generating articles are positioned, or sandwiched, between the front planar aerosol-generating article of the second group and the rear planar aerosol-generating article of the second group.

[0016] Optionally, each of the first group of planar aerosol-generating articles and the second group of planar aerosol-generating articles consists of between 3 and 7 planar aerosol-generating articles. Optionally, each of the first group of planar aerosol-generating articles and the second group of planar aerosol-generating articles consists of the same number of planar aerosol-generating articles. Optionally, each of the first group of planar aerosol-generating articles and the second group of planar aerosol-generating articles consist of 3 planar aerosol-generating articles. Optionally, each of the first group of planar aerosol-generating articles and the second group of planar aerosol-generating articles consist of 4 planar aerosol-generating articles. Optionally, each of the first group of planar aerosol-generating articles and the second group of planar aerosol-generating articles consist of 5 planar aerosol-generating articles. Optionally, each of the first group of planar aerosol-generating articles and the second group of planar aerosol-generating articles consist of 6 planar aerosol-generating articles. Optionally, each of the first group of planar aerosol-generating articles and the second group of planar aerosol-generating articles consist of 7 planar aerosol-generating articles.

[0017] Optionally, each planar aerosol-generating article in the first group abuts at least one other planar aerosol-generating article of the first group. Optionally, each planar aerosol-generating article in the second group abuts at least one other planar aerosol-generating article of the second group. Advantageously, this may allow the planar aerosol-generating articles to support one another and limit movement of the planar aerosol-generating articles within the container during transport, which may prevent damage to the planar aerosol-generating articles and may also assist in maintaining the first planar major face of each planar aerosol-generating article facing towards the box portion front wall.

[0018] Optionally, the first group of planar aerosol-generating articles are spaced from the second group of planar aerosol-generating articles. Optionally, the first group of planar aerosol-generating articles are spaced from the second group of planar aerosol-generating articles by at least one dividing wall. Advantageously, this may prevent one group of planar aerosol-generating articles moving into the internal volume previously occupied by the other group of planar aerosol-generating articles as planar aerosol-generating articles are withdrawn from the container.

[0019] Optionally, the first group of planar aerosol-generating articles are disposed in a first compartment of the outer housing and wherein the second group of planar aerosol-generating articles are disposed in a second compartment of the outer housing.

[0020] Optionally, the plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles further comprises a third group of planar aerosol-generating articles arranged in a third row. Optionally, the third row extends in a direction between the box portion front wall and the box portion back wall. Optionally, the third group of planar aerosol-generating articles has a front planar aerosol-generating article positioned adjacent to the box portion front wall and a rear planar aerosol-generating article positioned adjacent to the box portion rear wall. Optionally, the remaining planar aerosol-generating articles of the third group of planar aerosol-generating articles are positioned, or sandwiched, between the front planar aerosol-generating article of the third group and the rear planar aerosol-generating article of the third group.

[0021] Optionally, the third group of planar aerosol-generating articles are disposed in the first compartment of the outer housing. Optionally, the third group of planar aerosol-generating articles are disposed in a third compartment of the outer housing.

[0022] Optionally, the plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles further comprises a fourth group of planar aerosol-generating articles arranged in a fourth row. Optionally, the fourth row extends in a direction between the box portion front wall and the box portion back wall. Optionally, the fourth group of planar aerosol-generating articles has a front planar aerosol-generating article positioned adjacent to the box portion front wall and a rear planar aerosol-generating article positioned adjacent to the box portion rear wall. Optionally, the remaining planar aerosol-generating articles of the fourth group of planar aerosol-generating articles are positioned, or sandwiched, between the front planar aerosol-generating article of the fourth group and the rear planar aerosol-generating article of the fourth group.

[0023] Optionally, the fourth group of planar aerosol-generating articles are disposed in the second compartment of the outer housing. Optionally, the fourth group of planar aerosol-generating articles are disposed a fourth compartment of the outer housing.

[0024] Optionally, the only aerosol-generating articles in the first compartment of the outer housing are those in the first group of planar aerosol-generating articles. Optionally, the only aerosol-generating articles in the second compartment of the outer housing are those in the second group of planar aerosol-generating articles. Optionally, the only aerosol-generating articles in the third compartment of the outer housing are those in the third group of planar aerosol-generating articles. Optionally, the only aerosol-generating articles in the fourth compartment of the outer housing are those in the fourth group of planar aerosol-generating articles.

[0025] Optionally, the container is configured such that at least 25 percent, such as at least 50 percent, of the first planar major face of one of the plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles is exposed when the lid portion is in the open position. Optionally, the container is configured such that at least 25 percent, such as at least 50 percent, of the first planar major face of each of: a planar aerosol-generating article of the first group of planar aerosol-generating articles and a planar aerosol-generating article of the second group of planar aerosol-generating articles is exposed when the lid portion is in the open position. Advantageously, this may ensure that a significant portion of the first planar major face is exposed for a user to grip and withdraw a planar aerosol-generating article from the container.

[0026] Optionally, the outer housing has a first side cavity and a second side cavity, and wherein the plurality of aerosol-generating articles are positioned between the first side cavity and the second side cavity. It may be advantageous for the container to have the same or similar dimensions to containers for non-planar aerosol-generating articles, for example so that the same container manufacturing equipment can be used or the containers occupy the same space on merchant's shelf. However, planar aerosol-generating articles are generally smaller than conventional aerosol-generating articles and so take up less volume in containers. By providing side cavities in the container it may allow the container to have the same or similar dimensions to containers for non-planar aerosol-generating articles.

[0027] Optionally, the first side cavity and the second side cavity are positioned adjacent to the first box portion side wall and the second box portion side wall, respectively. Optionally, each of the first side cavity and the second side cavity have a depth of at least 90 percent of the depth of the container and height of at least 90 percent of the height of the container. Optionally, each of the first side cavity and the second side cavity have a width of at least 10 percent of the width of the container. Optionally, both the first side cavity and the second side cavity are substantially empty.

[0028] Optionally, the first side cavity is substantially enclosed. Optionally, the first side cavity has a first side cavity lid which, when the lid portion is in the open position, is movable between a closed position that covers an opening to the first side cavity and an open position that exposes the opening to the first side cavity.

[0029] Optionally, the second side cavity is substantially enclosed. Optionally, the second side cavity has a second side cavity lid which, when the lid portion is in the open position, is movable between a closed position that covers an opening to the second side cavity and an open position that exposes the opening to the second side cavity.

[0030] Optionally, the first compartment has a first compartment bottom wall, and wherein the first compartment bottom wall is spaced from the box portion bottom wall to define an internal storage space therebetween. Optionally, the internal storage space between the first compartment bottom wall and the box portion bottom wall is substantially empty. Optionally, the internal storage space between the first compartment bottom wall and the box portion bottom wall has a volume suitable for storing at least two of the plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles. Optionally, the internal storage space may extend at least 50 percent of the width of the box portion. Optionally, the internal storage space may extend at least 95 percent of the width of the box portion. By providing an internal storage space in the container it may allow the container to have the same or similar dimensions to containers for non-planar aerosol-generating articles and to allow used planar aerosol-generating articles to be stored within the container, separate from the unused planar aerosol-generating articles, so that they can be disposed of with the container.

[0031] Optionally, the second compartment has a second compartment bottom wall, and wherein the second compartment bottom wall is spaced from the box portion bottom wall to define an internal storage space therebetween. Optionally, the internal storage space between the second compartment bottom wall and the box portion bottom wall is substantially empty. Optionally, the internal storage space between the second compartment bottom wall and the box portion bottom wall has a volume suitable for storing at least two of the plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles.

[0032] Optionally, the container further comprises an opening in the first box portion side wall. Optionally, the opening in the first box portion side wall is sized and shaped to accommodate the passage of one of the plurality of planar aerosol-generating article from an outer side of the first box portion side wall to an inner side of the first box portion side wall. Advantageously, this may facilitate the easy storage of used planar aerosol-generating articles in the container such that the can be disposed of with the container.

[0033] Optionally, the opening in the first box portion side wall is sized and shaped to prevent the simultaneous passage of two of the plurality of planar aerosol-generating article from an outer side of the first box portion side wall to an inner side of the first box portion side wall. This may ensure that planar aerosol-generating articles are properly arranged within the container after insertion through the opening, for example to ensure each planar aerosol-generating article stacks on top of the previous planar aerosol-generating article. Advantageously, this may make efficient use of the internal volume of the container.

[0034] Optionally, the opening in the first box portion side wall is positioned to allow one of the planar aerosol-generating articles to be inserted into the internal storage space between the first compartment bottom wall and the box portion bottom wall.

[0035] Optionally, the opening in the first box portion side wall is covered by a hinged flap. Advantageously, this may reduce the risk of used planar aerosol-generating articles from inadvertently egressing from the container or undesirable objections ingressing into the container through the opening in the first box portion side wall.

[0036] Optionally, the opening in the first box portion side wall is elongated and has a longitudinal axis extending in the height direction of the container. Optionally, the opening in the first box portion side wall has a width extending in a depth direction of the container and a height extending in the height direction of the container, and wherein the opening in the first box portion side wall has a width between 100 percent and 110 percent of a width of any of the plurality of aerosol-generating articles and a height between 100 percent and 110 percent of a thickness of any of the plurality of the plurality of aerosol-generating articles.

[0037] Optionally, the opening in the first box portion side wall is elongated and has a longitudinal axis extending in the depth direction of the container. Optionally, the opening in the first box portion side wall has a width extending in a depth direction of the container and a height extending in the height direction of the container, and wherein the opening in the first box portion side wall has a width between 100 percent and 110 percent of a thickness of any of the plurality of aerosol-generating articles and a height between 100 percent and 110 percent of a width of any of the plurality of the plurality of aerosol-generating articles.

[0038] Optionally, the container further comprises an opening in the second box portion side wall.

[0039] Optionally, the opening in the second box portion side wall is sized and shaped to accommodate the passage of one of the plurality of planar aerosol-generating article from an outer side of the second box portion side wall to an inner side of the second box portion side wall.

[0040] Optionally, the opening in the second box portion side wall is sized and shaped to prevent the simultaneous passage of two of the plurality of planar aerosol-generating article from an outer side of the second box portion side wall to an inner side of the second box portion side wall.

[0041] Optionally, the opening in the second box portion side wall is positioned to allow one of the planar aerosol-generating articles to be inserted into the internal storage space between the second compartment bottom wall and the box portion bottom wall.

[0042] Optionally, the opening in the second box portion side wall is covered by a hinged flap.

[0043] Optionally, the opening in the second box portion side wall is elongated and has a longitudinal axis extending in the height direction of the container. Optionally, the opening in the second box portion side wall has a width extending in a depth direction of the container and a height extending in the height direction of the container, and wherein the opening in the second box portion side wall has a width between 100 percent and 110 percent of a width of any of the plurality of aerosol-generating articles and a height between 100 percent and 110 percent of a thickness of any of the plurality of the plurality of aerosol-generating articles.

[0044] Optionally, the opening in the second box portion side wall is elongated and has a longitudinal axis extending in the depth direction of the container. Optionally, the opening in the second box portion side wall has a width extending in a depth direction of the container and a height extending in the height direction of the container, and wherein the opening in the second box portion side wall has a width between 100 percent and 110 percent of a thickness of any of the plurality of aerosol-generating articles and a height between 100 percent and 110 percent of a width of any of the plurality of the plurality of aerosol-generating articles.

[0045] Optionally, the container further comprises an inner frame positioned within and secured to the box portion. Advantageously, the provision of an inner frame allows the internal volume of the outer housing to be divided into a plurality of sub-volumes which may provide improved support to the planar aerosol-generating articles and allow a more efficient use of the inner volume of the outer housing.

[0046] Optionally, the inner frame comprises an inner frame front wall at least partially underlying the box portion front wall; a first inner frame side wall at least partially underlying the first box portion side wall; and a second inner frame side wall at least partially underlying the second box portion side wall. Optionally, the first inner frame side wall may abut the first box portion side wall. Optionally, the second inner frame side wall may abut the second box portion side wall.

[0047] Optionally, the inner frame further comprises at least one dividing wall positioned between the first inner frame side wall and the second inner frame side wall and extending from the inner frame front wall to divide at least a portion of the internal volume of the outer housing into two or more compartments. For example, the two or more compartments may comprise the first compartment and the second compartment described above.

[0048] Optionally, at least one of the at least one dividing walls extends to the box portion rear wall. Optionally, at least one of the at least one dividing walls extends between the box portion front wall to the box portion rear wall. Optionally, at least one of the at least one dividing walls extends to the box portion bottom wall.

[0049] Optionally, the inner frame further comprises a panel forming a first compartment bottom wall. Optionally, the inner frame further comprises a panel forming a first compartment bottom wall. Optionally, the first compartment bottom wall extends from the front wall of the inner frame.

[0050] Optionally, the inner frame further comprises a securing panel connected to the first compartment bottom wall by a fold line, and wherein the securing panel is affixed to the box portion rear wall.

[0051] Optionally, the inner frame comprises a spacer panel for spacing a first dividing wall of the inner frame from a second dividing wall of the inner frame. Optionally, the spacer panel is connected to a rear edge of the first dividing wall by a fold line and connected to a rear edge of the second dividing wall by a further fold line.

[0052] Optionally, each planar aerosol-generating article has a length extending in an x-direction, a width extending in a y-direction, and a thickness extending in a z-direction. Optionally, each planar aerosol-generating article is elongated. Optionally, the thickness of each planar aerosol-generating article is less than 50 percent of both the length and the width of the planar aerosol-generating article.

[0053] Optionally, a ratio between the length and the thickness of each planar aerosol-generating article, and between the width and the thickness of each planar aerosol-generating article is greater than 2:1, greater than 5:1, greater than 10:1, greater than 12:1, or greater than 15:1.

[0054] Optionally, wherein a ratio between the length and the thickness of each planar aerosol-generating article, and between the width and the thickness of each planar aerosol-generating article is less than 15:1, less than 12:1, less than 10:1, less than 5:1, or less than 2.5:1.

[0055] Optionally, wherein a ratio between the length and the thickness of each planar aerosol-generating article, and between the width and the thickness of each planar aerosol-generating article is between 2:1 and 15:1, between 2:1 and 12:1, between 2:1 and 10:1, or between 5:1 and 10:1.

[0056] Optionally, each planar aerosol-generating article has a quadrilaterally-faced hexahedron shape. Optionally, each planar aerosol-generating article comprises one or more aerosol-forming substrates for producing an aerosol.

[0057] Optionally, each planar aerosol-generating article comprises: a cavity; an air inlet and an air outlet; an airflow passage extending between the air inlet and the air outlet through the cavity.

[0058] Optionally, at least one of the one or more aerosol-forming substrates is disposed in the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article.

[0059] Optionally, each planar aerosol-generating article has a laminated structure. Optionally, each planar aerosol-generating article comprises at least two layers, for example at least two of: a first external layer, a second external layer, a frame, a first frame layer, a second frame layer, a third frame layer, a first aerosol-generating substrate layer, and a second aerosol-generating substrate layer.

[0060] Optionally, each planar aerosol-generating article further comprises: a first planar external surface; a second planar external surface; and a frame positioned between the first planar external surface and the second planar external surface, wherein the frame of each planar aerosol-generating article at least partially defines the cavity of the respective planar aerosol-generating article. Optionally, the first planar external surface may be the first planar major face. Optionally, the second planar external surface may be the second planar major face.

[0061] Optionally, each planar aerosol-generating article comprises one or more external walls extending between the first planar external surface and the second planar external surface. Optionally, the one or more external walls collectively define an entire transverse external area of the planar aerosol-generating article. Optionally, the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article at least partially defines each of the one or more external walls. Optionally, the frame defines at least 60 percent, at least 70 percent, at least 80 percent, or at least 90 percent of the entire transverse external area of the planar aerosol-generating article.

[0062] Optionally, each planar aerosol-generating article comprises a first planar external layer and a second planar external layer, in which the first planar external layer forms the first planar external surface and the second planar external layer forms the second planar external surface. Optionally, at least one of the first planar external layer, the second planar external layer, and the frame comprises or consists of aerosol-generating substrate.

[0063] Optionally, one or more, or all, of the external corners of each planar aerosol-generating article may be chamfered or rounded.

[0064] Optionally, each planar aerosol-generating article comprises at least one outer wrapper. Optionally, the at least one outer wrapper defines or forms one or both of the first planar external surface of the planar aerosol-generating article and the second planar external surface of the planar aerosol-generating article.

[0065] Optionally, the at least one outer wrapper is confined to defining or forming the first planar external surface of the planar aerosol-generating article and the second planar external surface of the planar aerosol-generating article, such that side portions of the planar aerosol-generating article between the first planar external surface and the second planar external surface are not defined or formed by the at least one outer wrapper.

[0066] Optionally, the, each of the, or any of the, at least one outer wrapper comprises, or is made from, a cellulosic material. Optionally, the cellulosic material is paper, cigarette paper, tobacco paper, cardboard, wood, textile, natural fibres or artificial fibres. Preferably, the, each of the, or any of the, at least one outer wrapper is cigarette paper. Optionally, the, each of the, or any of the, at least one outer wrapper is substantially tobacco-free or substantially nicotine-free.

[0067] Optionally, each planar aerosol-generating article has a length of between 10 millimetres and 100 millimetres, or between 10 millimetres and 50 millimetres, for example between 10 millimetres and 40 millimetres, for example between 12 millimetres and 30 millimetres, for example between 14 millimetres and 26 millimetres, for example between 16 millimetres and 24 millimetres, for example between 18 millimetres and 22 millimetres, for example about 18 millimetres, or about 19 millimetres, or about 20 millimetres, or about 21 millimetres, or about 22 millimetres.

[0068] Optionally, each planar aerosol-generating article has a width of between 5 millimetres and 20 millimetres, for example between 8 millimetres and 18 millimetres, for example between 10 millimetres and 16 millimetres, for example between 11 millimetres and 15 millimetres, for example between 12 millimetres and 14 millimetres, for example about 13 millimetres.

[0069] Optionally, each planar aerosol-generating article has have a thickness of between 1 millimetres and 10 millimetres, for example between 1.2 millimetres and 8 millimetres, for example between 1.4 millimetres and 7 millimetres, for example between 1.6 millimetres and 6 millimetres, for example between 1.7 millimetres and 5 millimetres, for example about 1.7 millimetres, or about 4.5 millimetres, or about 2 millimetres, or about 3 millimetres, or about 4 millimetres.

[0070] As used herein, the term "hinge line" refers to a line about which the lid portion may be pivoted in order to open the container. A hinge line may be, for example, a fold line or a score line. The hinge line about which the lid portion is connected to the box portion may coincide with an edge of the container, or the hinge line may extend across a wall of the container at a position that is spaced apart from the edges.

[0071] As used herein, the term "fold line" refers to any line of a blank about which the blank is folded. The fold line may be defined by a line of weakness to assist with the folding action. Alternatively, a fold can be formed without the presence of a weakening line, depending for example on the pliability of the blank material and other material characteristics.

[0072] As used herein, the term "inner surface" refers to the surface of a component of the assembled container that is facing towards the interior of the container, for example towards the planar aerosol-generating articles, when the lid portion is in the closed position. As used herein, the term "outer surface" refers to the surface of a component of the container that is facing towards the exterior of the container. For example, the box portion front wall has an inner surface that is facing the inside of the container and the planar aerosol-generating articles, and an outer surface facing away from the planar aerosol-generating articles. It should be noted that the inside or outside surface is not necessarily equivalent to a certain side of a blank used in assembly of the container. Depending on how the blank is folded around the planar aerosol-generating articles, areas that are on the same side of the blank can either face towards the inside or the towards the outside of the container.

[0073] As used herein, the term "aerosol-generating article" refers to an article comprising an aerosol-generating substrate. The article may be heated in use to produce and deliver an inhalable aerosol to a consumer.

[0074] As used herein, the term "aerosol-generating substrate" refers to a substrate capable of releasing volatile compounds upon heating, for example compounds which, in use, cool and condense to generate an aerosol.

[0075] As used herein, the term "aerosol-generating device" refers to a device that, in use, interacts with, for example heats, an aerosol-generating substrate of a planar aerosol-generating article to generate an aerosol.

[0076] As used herein, the term "planar" refers to a feature generally formed in a single Euclidean plane and not wrapped around or otherwise conformed to fit a curved or other non-planar shape. A planar surface may extend in two dimensions in a single Euclidean plane. A planar object may extend in two dimensions in a single Euclidean plane substantially more than in a third dimension perpendicular to the plane. More specifically, a planar object may extend in a first dimension and a second dimension perpendicular to the first dimension at least two, five or ten times further than the object extends in a third dimension perpendicular to the first and second dimensions.

[0077] The invention is defined in the claims. However, below there is provided a non-exhaustive list of non-limiting examples. Any one or more of the features of these examples may be combined with any one or more features of another example, embodiment, or aspect described herein. EX1. A container of planar aerosol-generating articles, the container comprising: an outer housing having an internal volume; and a plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles disposed within the outer housing, wherein the outer housing comprises: a box portion having an access opening and comprising a box portion front wall, a box portion rear wall, first and second box portion side walls, and a box portion bottom wall; and a lid portion comprising a lid portion front wall, a lid portion rear wall, a lid portion top wall and lid portion side walls extending between the lid portion front wall and the lid portion rear wall, the lid portion being connected to the box portion by a hinge line extending along a top edge of the box portion, and the lid portion being moveable about the hinge line between: a closed position, in which the lid portion covers the access opening; and an open position, in which one or more of the planar aerosol-generating articles can be removed through the access opening, and wherein the plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles are arranged within the outer housing such that a first planar major face of each planar aerosol-generating article faces towards the box portion front wall. EX2. A container of planar aerosol-generating articles according to EX1, wherein the plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles are arranged within the outer housing such that, optionally a planar major face of, each planar aerosol-generating article abuts, optionally a planar major face of, at least one other planar aerosol-generating article. EX3. A container of planar aerosol-generating articles according to EX1 or EX2, wherein the plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles are arranged within the outer housing such that a second planar major face of each planar aerosol-generating article faces towards the box portion rear wall, the second planar major face of each planar aerosol-generating article being opposed to the first planar major face of each planar aerosol-generating article. EX4. A container of planar aerosol-generating articles according to any of EX1 to EX3, wherein each planar aerosol-generating article is elongated and has a longitudinal axis, and wherein the plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles are arranged within the outer housing such that the longitudinal axis of each planar aerosol-generating article extends between the box portion bottom wall and the lid portion top wall when the lid portion is in the closed position. EX5. A container of planar aerosol-generating articles according to any of EX1 to EX4, wherein the plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles comprises: a first group of planar aerosol-generating articles arranged in a first row; and a second group of planar aerosol-generating articles arranged in a second row. EX6. A container of planar aerosol-generating articles according to EX5, wherein each of the first group of planar aerosol-generating articles and the second group of planar aerosol-generating articles consists of between 3 and 7 planar aerosol-generating articles. EX7. A container of planar aerosol-generating articles according to EX5 or EX6, wherein each planar aerosol-generating article in the first group abuts at least one other planar aerosol-generating article of the first group. EX8. A container of planar aerosol-generating articles according to any of EX5 to EX7, wherein each planar aerosol-generating article in the second group abuts at least one other planar aerosol-generating article of the second group. EX9. A container of planar aerosol-generating articles according to any of EX5 to EX8, first group of planar aerosol-generating articles are spaced from the second group of planar aerosol-generating articles. EX10. A container of planar aerosol-generating articles according to any of EX5 to EX9, wherein the first group of planar aerosol-generating articles are disposed in a first compartment of the outer housing and wherein the second group of planar aerosol-generating articles are disposed in a second compartment of the outer housing. EX11. A container of planar aerosol-generating articles according to any of EX5 to EX10, wherein the plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles further comprises a third group of planar aerosol-generating articles arranged in a third row. EX12. A container of planar aerosol-generating articles according to EX11, wherein the third group of planar aerosol-generating articles are disposed in the first compartment of the outer housing. EX13. A container of planar aerosol-generating articles according to EX11, wherein the third group of planar aerosol-generating articles are disposed in a third compartment of the outer housing. EX14. A container of planar aerosol-generating articles according to EX12 or EX13, wherein the plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles further comprises a fourth group of planar aerosol-generating articles arranged in a fourth row. EX15. A container of planar aerosol-generating articles according to EX14, wherein the fourth group of planar aerosol-generating articles are disposed in the second compartment of the outer housing. EX16. A container of planar aerosol-generating articles according to EX14, wherein the fourth group of planar aerosol-generating articles are disposed a fourth compartment of the outer housing. EX17. A container of planar aerosol-generating articles according to any of EX5 to EX16, wherein the first compartment has a first compartment bottom wall, and wherein the first compartment bottom wall is spaced from the box portion bottom wall to define an internal storage space therebetween. EX18. A container of planar aerosol-generating articles according to EX17, wherein the internal storage space between the first compartment bottom wall and the box portion bottom wall is substantially empty. EX19. A container of planar aerosol-generating articles according to EX17 or EX18, wherein the internal storage space between the first compartment bottom wall and the box portion bottom wall has a volume suitable for storing at least two of the plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles. EX20. A container of planar aerosol-generating articles according to any of EX5 to EX19, wherein the second compartment has a second compartment bottom wall, and wherein the second compartment bottom wall is spaced from the box portion bottom wall to define an internal storage space therebetween. EX21. A container of planar aerosol-generating articles according to EX20, wherein the internal storage space between the second compartment bottom wall and the box portion bottom wall is substantially empty. EX22. A container of planar aerosol-generating articles according to EX20 or EX21, wherein the internal storage space between the second compartment bottom wall and the box portion bottom wall has a volume suitable for storing at least two of the plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles. EX23. A container of planar aerosol-generating articles according to any of EX1 to EX22, wherein the container further comprises an opening in the first box portion side wall. EX24. A container of planar aerosol-generating articles according to EX23, wherein the opening in the first box portion side wall is sized and shaped to accommodate the passage of one of the plurality of planar aerosol-generating article from an outer side of the first box portion side wall to an inner side of the first box portion side wall. EX25. A container of planar aerosol-generating articles according to EX23 or EX24, wherein the opening in the first box portion side wall is sized and shaped to prevent the simultaneous passage of two of the plurality of planar aerosol-generating article from an outer side of the first box portion side wall to an inner side of the first box portion side wall. EX26. A container of planar aerosol-generating articles according to any of EX23 to EX25, when dependent on any of EX17 to EX22, wherein the opening in the first box portion side wall is positioned to allow one of the planar aerosol-generating articles to be inserted into the internal storage space between the first compartment bottom wall and the box portion bottom wall. EX27. A container of planar aerosol-generating articles according to any of EX1 to EX26, wherein the container further comprises an opening in the second box portion side wall. EX28. A container of planar aerosol-generating articles according to EX27, wherein the opening in the second box portion side wall is sized and shaped to accommodate the passage of one of the plurality of planar aerosol-generating article from an outer side of the second box portion side wall to an inner side of the second box portion side wall. EX29. A container of planar aerosol-generating articles according to EX27 or EX28, wherein the opening in the second box portion side wall is sized and shaped to prevent the simultaneous passage of two of the plurality of planar aerosol-generating article from an outer side of the second box portion side wall to an inner side of the second box portion side wall. EX30. A container of planar aerosol-generating articles according to any of EX27 to EX29, when dependent on any of EX21 to EX26, wherein the opening in the second box portion side wall is positioned to allow one of the planar aerosol-generating articles to be inserted into the internal storage space between the second compartment bottom wall and the box portion bottom wall. EX31. A container of planar aerosol-generating articles according to any of EX1 to EX30, wherein the container further comprises an inner frame positioned within and secured to the box portion. EX32. A container of planar aerosol-generating articles according to EX31, wherein the inner frame comprises: an inner frame front wall at least partially underlying the box portion front wall; a first inner frame side wall at least partially underlying, and optionally abutting, the first box portion side wall; and a second inner frame side wall at least partially underlying, and optionally abutting, the second box portion side wall. EX33. A container of planar aerosol-generating articles according to EX32, wherein the inner frame further comprises: at least one dividing wall positioned between the first inner frame side wall and the second inner frame side wall and extending from the inner frame front wall to divide at least a portion of the internal volume of the outer housing into two or more compartments. EX34. A container of planar aerosol-generating articles according to EX33, wherein at least one of the at least one dividing walls extends to the box portion rear wall. EX35. A container of planar aerosol-generating articles according to any of EX31 to EX34, wherein the inner frame further comprises a panel forming a first compartment bottom wall. EX36. A container of planar aerosol-generating articles according to EX35, wherein the first compartment bottom wall extends from the front wall of the inner frame. EX37. A container of planar aerosol-generating articles according to EX35 or EX36, wherein the inner frame further comprises a securing panel connected to the first compartment bottom wall by a fold line, and wherein the securing panel is affixed to the box portion rear wall. EX38. A container of planar aerosol-generating articles according to any of EX31 to EX37, wherein the inner frame comprises a spacer panel for spacing a first dividing wall of the inner frame from a second dividing wall of the inner frame. EX39. A container of planar aerosol-generating articles according to EX38, wherein the spacer panel is connected to a rear edge of the first dividing wall by a fold line and connected to a rear edge of the second dividing wall by a further fold line. EX40. A container of planar aerosol-generating articles according to any of EX1 to EX39, wherein each planar aerosol-generating article has a length extending in an x-direction, a width extending in a y-direction, and a thickness extending in a z-direction. EX41. A container of planar aerosol-generating articles according to EX40, wherein the thickness of each planar aerosol-generating article is less than 50 percent of both the length and the width of the planar aerosol-generating article. EX42. A container of planar aerosol-generating articles according to EX40 or EX41, wherein a ratio between the length and the thickness of each planar aerosol-generating article, and between the width and the thickness of each planar aerosol-generating article is greater than 2:1, greater than 5:1, greater than 10:1, greater than 12:1, or greater than 15:1. EX43. A container of planar aerosol-generating articles according to any of EX40 to EX42, wherein a ratio between the length and the thickness of each planar aerosol-generating article, and between the width and the thickness of each planar aerosol-generating article is less than 15:1, less than 12:1, less than 10:1, less than 5:1, or less than 2.5:1. EX44. A container of planar aerosol-generating articles according to any of EX40 to EX43, wherein a ratio between the length and the thickness of each planar aerosol-generating article, and between the width and the thickness of each planar aerosol-generating article is between 2:1 and 15:1, between 2:1 and 12:1, between 2:1 and 10:1, or between 5:1 and 10:1. EX45. A container of planar aerosol-generating articles according to any of EX1 to EX44, wherein each planar aerosol-generating article has a quadrilaterally-faced hexahedron shape. EX46. A container of planar aerosol-generating articles according to any of EX1 to EX45, wherein each planar aerosol-generating article comprises one or more aerosol-forming substrates for producing an aerosol. EX47. A container of planar aerosol-generating articles according to any of EX1 to EX46, wherein each planar aerosol-generating article comprises: a cavity; an air inlet and an air outlet; an airflow passage extending between the air inlet and the air outlet through the cavity. EX48. A container of planar aerosol-generating articles according to EX47 when dependent on EX46, wherein at least one of the one or more aerosol-forming substrates is disposed in the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article. EX49. A container of planar aerosol-generating articles according to EX47 or EX48, wherein each planar aerosol-generating article further comprises: a first planar external surface; a second planar external surface; and a frame positioned between the first planar external surface and the second planar external surface, wherein the frame of each planar aerosol-generating article at least partially defines the cavity of each planar aerosol-generating article.

[0078] Examples will now be further described with reference to the figures in which: Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a planar aerosol-generating article; Figure 2 shows a perspective view of a container of planar aerosol-generating articles according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 3 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the container of Figure 2; Figure 4 shows a laminar blank for forming the outer housing of the container of Figure 2; Figure 5 shows a laminar blank for forming the inner frame of the container of Figure 2; Figure 6 shows a perspective view of a container of planar aerosol-generating articles according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 7 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the container of Figure 6; Figure 8 shows a laminar blank for forming the inner frame of the container of Figure 6; Figure 9 shows a perspective view of a container of planar aerosol-generating articles according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 10 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the container of Figure 9; Figure 11 shows a laminar blank for forming the outer housing of the container of Figure 9; Figure 12 shows a laminar blank for forming the inner frame of the container of Figure 9; Figure 13 shows a perspective view of a container of planar aerosol-generating articles according to a fourth embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 14 shows a schematic cross-section view of the container of Figure 13; Figure 15 shows a laminar blank for forming the outer housing of the container of Figure 13; and Figure 16 shows a laminar blank for forming the inner frame of the container of Figure 13.

[0079] Figure 1 illustrates a schematic perspective side view of a planar aerosol-generating article 10 according to the present disclosure. The planar aerosol-generating article 10 has a length extending in an x-dimension of about 30 millimetres, a width extending in a y-dimension of about 10 millimetres, and a thickness extending in a z-dimension of 3.1 millimetres. The planar aerosol-generating article 10 has a first planar major face 12 and a second planar major face 14. The second planar major 14 face opposes the first planar major face 12 and is spaced from the first planar major face 12 in the thickness direction of the article 10. Therefore, the planar aerosol-generating article 10 is generally flat and thin.

[0080] Figure 2 shows a container 100 of planar aerosol-generating articles 10 according to a first embodiment the present disclosure. Figure 3 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the container 100. Figures 4 and 5 show a first laminar blank 200 for forming the outer housing of the container 100 and a second laminar blank 250 for forming the inner frame 130 of the container 100, respectively. In Figures 4 and 5, the dashed lines indicate crease fold lines, the dotted lines indicate perforated fold lines and solid lines indicate cut lines in the laminar blanks.

[0081] The container 100 has an outer housing comprising a box portion 102 and a lid portion 104 connected to the box portion 102 by a hinge line extending along a top edge of the box portion 102. The box portion 102 has an access opening and comprises a box portion front wall 106, a box portion rear wall 108, first and second box portion side walls 110, 112, and a box portion bottom wall. The lid portion 104 comprises a lid portion front wall 114, a lid portion rear wall 116, a lid portion top wall and lid portion side walls extending between the lid portion front wall 114 and the lid portion rear wall 116. The lid portion 104 is moveable about the hinge line between a closed position, in which the lid portion 104 covers the access opening, and an open position, in which one or more of the planar aerosol-generating articles 10 can be removed through the access opening.

[0082] When the lid portion 104 is in the closed position, the internal volume of the outer housing has a height of about 50 millimetres, a depth of about 23 millimetres and a width of about 55 millimetres. The inner frame 130 is positioned within the internal volume of the outer housing and is secured to the box portion 102 of the container 100. The inner frame 130 divides the internal volume of the outer housing into a first compartment 121, a second compartment 122, and an internal storage space 120 beneath the first and second compartments 121, 122. The first compartment 121 and the second compartment 122 contain the plurality of aerosol-generating articles 10 whereas the internal storage space 120 is substantially empty.

[0083] The inner frame 130 has a several walls which together collectively form the different internal sub volumes of the outer housing. The inner frame 130 has a first inner frame front wall portion partially underlying and abutting the box portion front wall 106, a second inner frame front wall portion partially underlying and abutting the box portion front wall 106, a first inner frame side wall 146 at least partially underlying and abutting the first box portion side wall 110, and a second inner frame side wall 156 at least partially underlying and abutting the second box portion side wall 112. The inner frame 130 has a first inner frame dividing wall extending from the first inner frame front wall portion to the box portion rear wall, and a second inner frame dividing wall 132 extending from the second inner frame front wall portion to the box portion rear wall. The inner frame has a spacer wall (see spacer panel 298 in Figure 5) at least partially underlying and abutting the box portion rear wall to space the first inner frame dividing wall and the second inner frame dividing wall 132.

[0084] The inner frame 130 further has a first compartment bottom wall 135 extending from the first inner frame front wall portion, and a second compartment bottom wall 136 extending from the second inner frame front wall portion. The compartment bottom walls each support the plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles 10 positioned within the respective compartment.

[0085] The first compartment 121 and the second compartment 122 each have a height of about 31.4 millimetres, a depth of about 23 millimetres and a width of about 25 millimetres. The first compartment 121 and the second compartment 122 are spaced apart in a width direction by a gap, between the first and second 132 dividing walls, having a width of about 4 millimetres. The dimensions of the first compartment 121 and second compartment 122 compliment the dimensions and arrangement of the plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles 10.

[0086] The plurality of aerosol-generating articles 10 are arranged within the first compartment 121 and the second compartment 122 in rows that extend in the depth direction of the container 100. The first compartment 121 comprises a first group of planar aerosol-generating articles 10 arranged in a first row and a second group of planar aerosol-generating articles 10 arranged in a second row. The second compartment 122 comprises a third group of planar aerosol-generating articles 10 arranged in a third row and a fourth group of planar aerosol-generating articles 10 arranged in a fourth row. Each group of planar aerosol-generating articles 10 consists of six planar aerosol-generating articles. Therefore, the first compartment 121 and second compartment 122 collectively hold twenty-four planar aerosol-generating articles.

[0087] Each of the planar aerosol-generating articles 10 are arranged such that the longitudinal axis of each planar aerosol-generating article 10 extends in a direction between the box portion bottom wall and the lid portion top wall when the lid portion 104 is in the closed position. Each of the plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles 10 are also arranged such that the first planar major face 12 of each planar aerosol-generating article 10 faces towards the box portion front wall 106 and the second planar major face 14 of each planar aerosol-generating article 10 faces towards the box portion rear wall 108. In more detail, a planar major face of each planar aerosol-generating article 1 abuts a planar major face of another planar aerosol-generating article 1 in the same row.

[0088] Beneath the first and second compartments 121, 122, the first dividing wall and the second dividing wall 132 do not extend the entire depth of the container 100. Instead, there is an internal storage space 120 that is at least partially enclosed by the first compartment bottom wall 135, the second compartment bottom wall 136, the box portion rear wall 108, and the first and second box portion side walls 110, 112. However, the first box portion side wall 110 has an opening 118 having an oblong cross-section and a width of about 12 millimetres and a height of about 5 millimetres. The opening 118 is sized and shaped to allow a planar aerosol-generating article 10 to be inserted into the internal storage space 120. This allows used planar aerosol-generating articles 10 to be stored within the container 100, separate from unused planar aerosol-generating articles, so that they can be disposed of with the container 100. The internal storage space 120 has a height of about 16.6 millimetres, a depth of about 23 millimetres and a width of about 55 millimetres and can accommodate the storage of a plurality of used planar aerosol-generating articles.

[0089] The first laminar blank 200 for forming the outer housing of the container 100 has a lid portion front wall panel 202, a lid portion front under panel 204, a lid portion top wall panel 206, first and second lid portion top wall reinforcing panels 208, 210, a lid portion rear wall panel 212, first and second lid portion outer side wall panels 214, 216, and first and second lid portion inner side wall panels 218, 220. These panels together form the lid portion 104 of the outer housing of the container 100.

[0090] The first laminar blank 200 also has a box portion front wall panel 222, first and second box portion outer side wall panels 224, 226, a box portion bottom wall panel 228, a box portion rear wall panel 230, first and second box portion inner side wall panels 232, 234, and first and second box portion bottom wall reinforcing flaps 236, 238. These panels and flaps together form the box portion 102 of the outer housing of the container 100.

[0091] The first laminar blank 200 further has a portion 241, 242, on each of the first box portion outer side wall panel 232 and first box portion inner side wall panel 224 for collectively defining the opening 118 in the first box portion side wall 110. The portion 241 on the first box portion inner side wall panel 224 is completely cut out whereas the portion 242 on the first box portion outer side wall panel 232 forms a flap joined to the first box portion outer side wall panel 232 at a fold line 243.

[0092] The second laminar blank 250 for forming the inner frame 130 of the container 100 has first and second inner frame side wall panels 252, 254, first and second inner frame front wall panels 261, 262, first and second inner frame bottom wall panels 271, 272, first and second inner frame securing panels 281, 282, first and second dividing wall panels 291, 292, and a spacer panel 298. These panels together form the inner frame 130 of the container 100. The second laminar blank 250 also has a cut out portion 258 in the first inner frame side wall panel 252. During assembly of the container 100, the first and second inner frame securing panels 281 are affixed to the inner surface of the box portion rear wall 108, for example by an adhesive, and the cut out portion 258 in the first inner frame side wall panel 252 is aligned with the portions 241, 242 on each of the first box portion outer side wall panel 224 and first box portion inner side wall panel 232.

[0093] Figure 6 shows a container 300 of planar aerosol-generating articles 10 according to a second embodiment the present disclosure. Figure 7 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the container 300. The outer housing of the container 300 has the same construction, external dimensions and internal dimensions as the outer housing of the container 100 of the first embodiment. Thus, Figure 4 also shows a first laminar blank 200 for forming the outer housing of the container 300. Figures 8 shows a second laminar blank 450 for forming the inner frame 330 of the container 300. The dashed lines indicate crease fold lines, the dotted lines indicate perforated fold lines and solid lines indicate cut lines in the laminar blanks.

[0094] The inner frame 330 is positioned within the internal volume of the outer housing and is secured to the box portion 302 of the container 300. However, in this embodiment, the inner frame 330 divides the internal volume of the outer housing into a first compartment 321, a second compartment 322, a third compartment 333, a fourth compartment 334, and an internal storage space 320 beneath each of the first to fourth compartments. Each of the first to fourth compartments contain the plurality of aerosol-generating articles 10 whereas the internal storage space 320 is substantially empty.

[0095] The inner frame 330 has a plurality of dividing walls that divide the internal volume of the outer housing in a width direction into the first to fourth compartments, namely a first inner frame dividing wall, a second inner frame dividing wall, and a third inner frame dividing wall. The first inner frame dividing wall is formed from first and second dividing wall panels 491, 492 that abut each other and are joined proximal to the box portion rear wall 308 by a fold line. The second inner frame dividing wall is formed from third and fourth dividing wall panels 493, 494 that abut each other and are joined proximal to the box portion rear wall 308 by a fold line. The third inner frame dividing wall is formed from fifth and sixth dividing wall panels 495, 496 that abut each other and are joined proximal to the box portion rear wall 308 by a fold line. The inner frame 330 also has a first inner frame side wall 346 at least partially underlying and abutting the first box portion side wall 310, and a second inner frame side wall 356 at least partially underlying and abutting the second box portion side wall 312.

[0096] The inner frame 330 has a plurality of compartment bottom walls that divide the internal volume of the outer housing in a height direction into the first to fourth compartments and the internal storage space 320. In more detail, the inner frame comprises a first compartment bottom wall 335, a second compartment bottom wall 336, a third compartment bottom wall 337 and a fourth compartment bottom wall 338. The compartment bottom walls each support the plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles 10 positioned within the respective compartment.

[0097] The first to fourth compartments each have a height of about 31.4 millimetres, a depth of about 23 millimetres and a width of about 12.5 millimetres. The dimensions of the compartments compliment the dimensions and arrangement of the plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles 10. There is a first group of planar aerosol-generating articles arranged in a first row in the first compartment 321, a second group of planar aerosol-generating articles arranged in a second row in the second compartment 322, a third group of planar aerosol-generating articles arranged in a third row in the third compartment 323, and a fourth group of planar aerosol-generating articles arranged in a fourth row in the fourth compartment 324. Therefore, each compartment comprises a single row of planar aerosol-generating articles 10.

[0098] As with the first embodiment, there the internal storage space 320 is positioned beneath the compartments and is at least partially enclosed by the first compartment bottom wall 335, the second compartment bottom wall 336, the third compartment bottom wall 337, the fourth compartment bottom wall 338, the box portion rear wall 308, and the first and second box portion side walls 310, 213. As with the first embodiment, the opening 318 in the first box portion side wall 310 is sized and shaped to allow a planar aerosol-generating article 10 to be inserted into the internal storage space 320 of the container 300. The internal storage space 320 can accommodate the storage of a plurality of used planar aerosol-generating articles 10.

[0099] The second laminar blank 450 for forming the inner frame 330 of the container 300 comprises first and second inner frame side wall panels 452, 454. The second laminar blank comprises first, second, third and fourth inner frame front wall panels 461, 462, 463, 464. The second laminar blank comprises first, second, third and fourth inner frame bottom wall panels 471, 472, 473, 474. The second laminar blank comprises first, second, third and fourth inner frame securing panels 481, 482, 483, 484. The second laminar blank 450 comprises first, second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth inner frame dividing wall panels 491, 492, 493, 494, 495, 496. These panels together form the inner frame 330 of the container 300. The second laminar blank 450 also comprises a cut out portion 458 in the first inner frame side wall panel 452. During assembly of the container 300, the securing panels 481, 482, 483, 484 are affixed to the inner surface of the box portion rear wall 308, for example by an adhesive, and the cut out portion 458 in the first inner frame side wall panel 452 is aligned with the portions 241, 242 on each of the first box portion outer side wall 224 and first box portion inner side wall 232.

[0100] Figure 9 shows a container 500 of planar aerosol-generating articles 10 according to a third embodiment the present disclosure. Figure 10 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the container 500. Figures 11 and 12 show a first laminar blank 600 for forming the outer housing of the container 500 and a second laminar blank 650 for forming inner frame 630 of the container 500, respectively. The dashed lines indicate crease fold lines, the dotted lines indicate perforated fold lines and solid lines indicate cut lines in the laminar blanks.

[0101] As with the containers 100, 300 according to the first embodiment and the second embodiment, the container 500 of the third embodiment has an outer housing comprising a box portion 502 and a lid portion 504 connected to the box portion 502 by a hinge line extending along a top edge of the box portion 502. When the lid portion 502 is in the closed position, the outer housing has an internal volume having a height of about 48 millimetres, a depth of about 16 millimetres and a width of about 74 millimetres. Therefore, the container 500 according to the third embodiment is thinner but wider than the containers 100, 300 according to the first and second embodiments.

[0102] The inner frame 530 is positioned within the internal volume of the outer housing and secured to the box portion 502 of the container 500. The inner frame 530 divides the internal volume of the outer housing into a first compartment 521, a second compartment 522, a third compartment 523 and an internal storage space 520 beneath the first to third compartments. The first to third compartments contain the plurality of aerosol-generating articles 10 whereas the internal storage space 520 is substantially empty.

[0103] The inner frame 530 comprises a plurality of dividing walls that divide the internal volume of the outer housing in a width direction into the first to third compartments, namely a first inner frame dividing wall and a second inner frame dividing wall. The first inner frame dividing wall is formed from first and second dividing wall panels 691, 692 that abut each other and are joined proximal to the box portion rear wall 508 by a fold line. The second inner frame dividing wall is formed from third and fourth dividing wall panels 693, 694 that abut each other and are joined proximal to the box portion rear wall 508 by a fold line.

[0104] The inner frame 530 comprises a plurality of compartment bottom walls that divide the internal volume of the outer housing in a height direction into the first to third compartments and the internal storage space. In more detail, the inner frame 530 comprises a first compartment bottom wall 535, a second compartment bottom wall 536, and a third compartment bottom wall 537. The compartment bottom walls each support the plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles 10 positioned within the respective compartment.

[0105] The first to third compartments each have a height of about 31.4 millimetres, a depth of about 16 millimetres and a width of about 24 millimetres. The dimensions of the compartments compliment the dimensions and arrangement of the plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles 10. The planar aerosol-generating articles 10 are arranged in rows in the compartments with each compartment having two rows of planar aerosol-generating articles 10 and each row consisting of four planar aerosol-generating articles.

[0106] The internal storage space 520 is at least partially enclosed by the first compartment bottom wall 535, the second compartment bottom wall 536, the third compartment bottom wall 537, the box portion rear wall 508, and the first and second box portion side walls 510, 512. However, the first box portion side wall 510 comprises a first opening 518 and the second box portion side wall 512 comprises a second opening 519. The first opening 518 and second opening 519 are sized and shaped to allow a planar aerosol-generating article 10 to be inserted into the internal storage space 520 of the container 500 through either opening. The internal storage space 520 can accommodate the storage of a plurality of used planar aerosol-generating articles.

[0107] The first laminar blank 600 comprises a lid portion front wall panel 602, a lid portion front under panel 604, a lid portion top wall panel 606, first and second lid portion top wall reinforcing panels 608, 610, a lid portion rear wall panel 612, first and second lid portion outer side wall panels 614, 616, and first and second lid portion inner side wall panels 618, 620. These panels together form the lid portion 504 of the outer housing of the container 500.

[0108] The first laminar blank 600 also comprises a box portion front wall panel 622, first and second box portion outer side wall panels 632, 634, a box portion rear wall panel 630, first and second box portion inner side wall panels 624, 626, a box portion bottom wall panel 628, and first and second box portion bottom wall reinforcing flaps 636, 638. These panels together form the box portion 502 of the outer housing of the container 500.

[0109] The first laminar blank 600 further comprises a portion 641, 642 on each of the first box portion outer side wall panel 632 and the first box portion inner side wall panel 624 for collectively defining the first opening 518 in the first box portion side wall 510. The portion 641 on the first box portion inner side wall panel 624 is completely cut out whereas the portion 642 on the first box portion outer side wall panel 632 forms a flap joined to the first box portion outer side wall panel 632 at a fold line 643.

[0110] The first laminar blank 600 further comprises a portion 644, 645 on each of the second box portion outer side wall panel 634 and the second box portion inner side wall panel 626 for collectively defining the second opening 519 in the second box portion side wall 512. The portion 644 on the second box portion inner side wall panel 626 is completely cut out whereas the portion 634 on the second box portion outer side wall panel 634 forms a flap joined to the second box portion outer side wall panel 634 at a fold line 646.

[0111] The second laminar blank 650 comprises first and second inner frame side wall panels 652, 654. The second laminar blank 650 comprises first, second and third inner frame front wall panels 661, 662, 663. The second laminar blank 650 comprises first, second and third inner frame bottom wall panels 671, 672, 673. The second laminar blank 650 comprises first, second and third inner frame securing panels 681, 682, 683. The second laminar blank 650 comprises first, second, third and fourth inner frame dividing wall panels 691, 692, 693, 694. These panels together form the inner frame 530 of the container 500. The second laminar blank 650 also comprises a cut out portion 658 in the first inner frame side wall panel 652 and a cut out portion 659 in the second inner frame side wall panel 654. During assembly of the container 500, the securing panels are affixed to the inner surface of the box portion rear wall 508, for example by an adhesive. The cut out portion 658 in the first inner frame side wall panel 652 is aligned with the portions 641, 642 on each of the first box portion outer side wall panel 632 and first box portion inner side wall panel 624, and the cut out portion 659 in the second inner frame side wall panel 654 is aligned with the portions 644, 645 on each of the second box portion outer side wall panel 634 and second box portion inner side wall panel 626.

[0112] Figure 13 shows a container 700 of planar aerosol-generating articles 10 according to a fourth embodiment the present disclosure. Figure 14 shows an schematic cross-sectional view of the container 700. Figures 15 and 16 show a first laminar blank 800 for forming the outer housing of the container 700 and a second laminar blank 850 for forming the inner frame 730 of the container 700, respectively. The dashed lines indicate crease fold lines, the dotted lines indicate perforated fold lines and solid lines indicate cut lines in the laminar blanks.

[0113] As with the containers according to the first to third embodiments, the container 700 of the fourth embodiment has an outer housing comprising a box portion 702 and a lid portion 704 connected to the box portion 702 by a hinge line extending along a top edge of the box portion 702. When the lid portion 704 is in the closed position, the outer housing has an internal volume having a height of about 48 millimetres, a depth of about 20 millimetres and a width of about 59 millimetres.

[0114] The inner frame 730 is positioned within the internal volume of the outer housing and secured to the box portion 702 of the container 700. The inner frame 730 divides the internal volume of the outer housing into first and second side cavities 742, 752, first and second compartments 721, 722 and an internal storage space 720 beneath the first compartment 721. The first and second compartments 721, 722 contain the plurality of aerosol-generating articles 10 whereas the internal storage space 720 and the side cavities 742, 752 are substantially empty.

[0115] The first and second compartments 721, 722 each have a height of about 31.4 millimetres, a depth of about 20 millimetres and a width of about 26 millimetres. The planar aerosol-generating articles 10 are arranged in rows in the compartments with each compartment having two rows of planar aerosol-generating articles 10.

[0116] The inner frame 730 has a dividing wall that divides the internal volume of the outer a housing in width direction into the first and second compartments 721, 722. The dividing wall is formed from first and second dividing wall panels 891, 892 that abut each other and are joined proximal to the box portion rear wall 708 by a fold line. The inner frame 730 has a plurality of compartment bottom walls 735, 736 that divide the internal volume of the outer housing in a height direction into the first and second compartments 721, 722 and the internal storage space 720. In more detail, the inner frame 730 comprises a first compartment bottom wall 735 and a second compartment bottom wall 736. The compartment bottom walls each support the plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles 10 positioned within the respective compartments.

[0117] The inner frame 730 has a first inner frame inner side wall 744 and a first inner frame outer side wall 746 having a first side cavity lid 748 extending therefrom. The box portion bottom wall, the first inner frame inner side wall 744, the first inner frame outer side wall 746 and the first side cavity lid 748 enclose the first side cavity 742. The inner frame 730 has a second inner frame inner side wall 754 and a second inner frame outer side wall 756 having a second side cavity lid 758 extending therefrom. The box portion bottom wall, the second inner frame inner side wall 754, the second inner frame outer side wall 756 and the second side cavity lid 758 enclose the second side cavity 752.

[0118] The internal storage space 720 beneath the first compartment 721 is at least partially enclosed by the first compartment bottom wall 735, the box portion bottom wall, the first inner frame inner side wall 744, and the dividing wall. However, the first inner frame inner side wall 744 and the first inner frame outer side wall 746 each have cut outs which align with the first opening 718 in the first box portion side wall 710. This allows a used planar aerosol-generating article 10 to be inserted through first opening 718 in the first box portion side wall 710, through the first side cavity 742, and into the internal storage space 720. The internal storage space 720 can accommodate the storage of a plurality of used planar aerosol-generating articles 10.

[0119] The first laminar blank 800 has a lid portion front wall panel 802, a lid portion top wall panel 806, first and second lid portion top wall reinforcing panels 808, 810, a lid portion rear wall panel 812, a lid portion front under panel 804, first and second lid portion outer side wall panels 814, 816, and first and second lid portion inner side wall panels 818, 820. These panels together form the lid portion 704 of the outer housing of the container 704.

[0120] The first laminar blank 800 has a box portion front wall panel 822, first and second box portion outer side wall panels 832, 834, a box portion rear wall panel 830, first and second box portion inner side wall panels 824, 826, a box portion bottom wall panel 828, and first and second box portion bottom wall reinforcing flaps 836, 838. These panels and flaps together form the box portion 702 of the outer housing of the container 700.

[0121] The first laminar blank 100 has a portion 881, 842 on each of the first box portion outer side wall panel 832 and the first box portion inner side wall panel 824 for collectively defining the first opening 718 in the first box portion side wall 710. The portion 881 on the first box portion inner side wall panel 824 is completely cut out whereas the portion 842 on the first box portion outer side wall panel 832 forms a flap joined to the first box portion outer side wall panel 832 at a fold line 843.

[0122] The second laminar blank 850 has a first inner frame inner side wall panel 851 and a first inner frame outer side wall panel 852. During assembly of the inner frame 730, a free edge of the second laminar blank (left of the panel 851) is adhered to a portion of the second laminar blank (between panel 852 and panel 861) such that the cut out 857 in the first inner frame inner side wall panel 851 is aligned with the cut out 858 in the first inner frame outer side wall panel 852. This will at least partially form the first side cavity 742 of the container 700. There is also a first side cavity lid top wall panel 855 extending from the first inner frame outer side wall panel 852 and a first side cavity lid flap 856.

[0123] On the opposite side of the second laminar blank 850, there is a second inner frame inner side wall panel 853 and a second inner frame outer side wall panel 854. During assembly of the inner frame 730, a free edge of the second laminar blank (right of the panel 853) is adhered to a portion of the second laminar blank (between panel 862 and panel 854). This will at least partially form the second side cavity 752 of the container 700. There is also a second side cavity lid top wall panel 855 extending from the second inner frame outer side wall panel 854 and a second side cavity lid flap 856.

[0124] Between the side wall panels, the second laminar blank 850 has first and second inner frame front wall panels 861, 862 connected to first and second dividing wall panels 891, 892. Extending from the first and second front wall panels 861, 862 are first and second inner frame bottom wall panels 871, 872, and extending from the first and second inner frame bottom wall panels 871, 872 are first and second inner frame securing panels 881, 882.

[0125] During assembly of the container 700, the securing panels are affixed to the inner surface of the box portion rear wall 708, for example by an adhesive. The cut outs 857, 858 in the first inner frame inner side wall panel 851 and first inner frame outer side wall panel 852 are aligned with the portions 841, 842 on each of the first box portion outer side wall panel 832 and first box portion inner side wall panel 824.

[0126] For the purpose of the present description and of the appended claims, except where otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing amounts, quantities, percentages, and so forth, are to be understood as being modified in all instances by the term "about". Also, all ranges include the maximum and minimum points disclosed and include any intermediate ranges therein, which may or may not be specifically enumerated herein. In this context, therefore, a number A is understood as A ± 10% of A. Within this context, a number A may be considered to include numerical values that are within general standard error for the measurement of the property that the number A modifies. The number A, in some instances as used in the appended claims, may deviate by the percentages enumerated above provided that the amount by which A deviates does not materially affect the basic and novel characteristic(s) of the claimed invention. Also, all ranges include the maximum and minimum points disclosed and include any intermediate ranges therein, which may or may not be specifically enumerated herein.

Claims

1. A container of planar aerosol-generating articles, the container comprising: an outer housing having an internal volume; and a plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles disposed within the outer housing, wherein the outer housing comprises: a box portion having an access opening and comprising a box portion front wall, a box portion rear wall, first and second box portion side walls, and a box portion bottom wall; and a lid portion comprising a lid portion front wall, a lid portion rear wall, a lid portion top wall and lid portion side walls extending between the lid portion front wall and the lid portion rear wall, the lid portion being connected to the box portion by a hinge line extending along a top edge of the box portion, and the lid portion being moveable about the hinge line between: a closed position, in which the lid portion covers the access opening; and an open position, in which one or more of the planar aerosol-generating articles can be removed through the access opening, and wherein the plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles are arranged within the outer housing such that a first planar major face of each planar aerosol-generating article faces towards the box portion front wall.

2. A container of planar aerosol-generating articles according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles comprises: a first group of planar aerosol-generating articles arranged in a first row; and a second group of planar aerosol-generating articles arranged in a second row; and wherein the first group of planar aerosol-generating articles are spaced from the second group of planar aerosol-generating articles.

3. A container of planar aerosol-generating articles according to claim 2, wherein the first group of planar aerosol-generating articles are disposed in a first compartment of the outer housing and wherein the second group of planar aerosol-generating articles are disposed in a second compartment of the outer housing.

4. A container of planar aerosol-generating articles according to claim 3, wherein the first compartment has a first compartment bottom wall, and wherein the first compartment bottom wall is spaced from the box portion bottom wall to define an internal storage space therebetween.

5. A container of planar aerosol-generating articles according to claim 4, wherein the internal storage space between the first compartment bottom wall and the box portion bottom wall has a volume suitable for storing at least two of the plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles.

6. A container of planar aerosol-generating articles according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the container further comprises an opening in the first box portion side wall and wherein the opening in the first box portion side wall is sized and shaped to accommodate the passage of one of the plurality of planar aerosol-generating article from an outer side of the first box portion side wall to an inner side of the first box portion side wall.

7. A container of planar aerosol-generating articles according to claim 6, when dependent on any one of claims 4 or 5, wherein the opening in the first box portion side wall is positioned to allow one of the planar aerosol-generating articles to be inserted into the internal storage space between the first compartment bottom wall and the box portion bottom wall.

8. A container of planar aerosol-generating articles according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the container further comprises an inner frame positioned within and secured to the box portion.

9. A container of planar aerosol-generating articles according to claim 8, wherein the inner frame comprises: an inner frame front wall at least partially underlying the box portion front wall; a first inner frame side wall at least partially underlying, and optionally abutting, the first box portion side wall; and a second inner frame side wall at least partially underlying, and optionally abutting, the second box portion side wall.

10. A container of planar aerosol-generating articles according to claim 9, wherein the inner frame further comprises: at least one dividing wall positioned between the first inner frame side wall and the second inner frame side wall and extending from the inner frame front wall to divide at least a portion of the internal volume of the outer housing into two or more compartments.

11. A container of planar aerosol-generating articles according to any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein the inner frame further comprises a panel forming a first compartment bottom wall.

12. A container of planar aerosol-generating articles according to claim 11, wherein the first compartment bottom wall extends from the front wall of the inner frame.

13. A container of planar aerosol-generating articles according to any one of claims 8 to 12, wherein the inner frame comprises a spacer panel for spacing a first dividing wall of the inner frame from a second dividing wall of the inner frame.

14. A container of planar aerosol-generating articles according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein each planar aerosol-generating article has a length extending in an x-direction, a width extending in a y-direction, and a thickness extending in a z-direction, wherein the thickness of each planar aerosol-generating article is less than 50 percent of both the length and the width of the planar aerosol-generating article.

15. A container of planar aerosol-generating articles according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein each planar aerosol-generating article comprises: a cavity; an air inlet and an air outlet; an airflow passage extending between the air inlet and the air outlet through the cavity.

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