Bundle of containers

Abstract

A bundle (1) of containers for consumer goods, the bundle (1) comprising a group (50) of containers for consumer goods, each container including a first container wall (51), the first container walls (51) being arranged such that collectively the first container walls (51) form a first side (4) of the bundle, and a strip (10) extending across at least the first side (4) of the bundle, the strip (10) being affixed to each of the first container walls (51) thereby securing the group of containers together. The strip (10) includes a plurality of lines of weakness (101, 102), each extending across the first side of the bundle. The lines of weakness (101, 102) are arranged such that each container in the group of containers (50) is separable from the group of containers (50) by tearing the strip along one or more respective lines of weakness (101, 102).

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to bundles for consumer goods, and wrappers therefor. Bundles according to the invention have particular application as bundles of multiple containers of consumer goods, such as aerosol-generating articles. [Background technology]

[0002] It is commonly known to package and sell aerosol-generating articles and other consumer goods in rigid box-like containers. It is also known to display and sell containers for aerosol-generating articles and other consumer goods in multipacks or bundles containing a plurality of containers. The plurality of containers may be arranged in an array of rows and columns and may be wrapped in a transparent film wrapper to form a bundle of containers. The wrapper is typically provided for one or both of storage and transportation purposes. Alternatively, or additionally, the plurality of containers may be placed in a display carton to form a bundle. The display carton may typically be made from a folded cardboard layered blank that forms a box in which the containers reside. The display carton may be used in addition to or instead of a transparent film wrapper wrapped around the plurality of containers. This typically involves wrapping a transparent film wrapper around the entire bundle of containers to completely cover all six sides of the bundle.

[0003] In some known bundles, a wrapper surrounding the containers is provided with a tear strip or perforations to facilitate opening of the bundle, for example, a user of the bundle can tear along the strip or perforation so that a portion of the bundle wrapper can be lifted or removed away from the bundle to expose the containers within the wrapper.

[0004] Furthermore, in some conventional bundles, the containers may first be removed from the surrounding display carton housing and then the surrounding wrapper may be removed from the containers before any of the containers can be fully accessed. Additionally or alternatively, the surrounding display carton housing may itself be wrapped in a clear wrapper that must first be removed before the display carton housing can be accessed. Thus, such an arrangement may be unduly burdensome for those using or handling the bundle. Furthermore, such an arrangement may involve the use of multiple different components, which may be formed of different materials. This may be undesirable for either or both environmental and cost reasons.

[0005] It would therefore be desirable to provide a bundle of consumer goods containers that includes means for securely holding the containers together in the bundle while allowing easy access to the containers when desired, without suffering from one or more of the drawbacks discussed above. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The present invention relates to a bundle of containers for consumer goods. The bundle may comprise a group of containers for consumer goods. Each container may include a first container wall. The group of containers may be arranged such that the first container walls collectively form a first side of the bundle. The bundle may include a strip. The strip may extend across at least the first side of the bundle. The strip may be affixed to each of the first container walls to secure the group of containers together. The strip may include a plurality of lines of weakness. Each line of weakness may extend across the first side of the bundle. The plurality of lines of weakness may be arranged such that each container in the group of containers is separable from the group of containers by tearing the strip along one or more respective lines of weakness.

[0007] The invention will now be further described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: [Brief description of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a group and strip of containers for forming a bundle of consumer goods containers according to a first embodiment of the invention. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of a stack of containers according to a first embodiment of the invention. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 shows a perspective view of the stack of containers of FIG. 2 with one container removed from the stack. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 shows a perspective view of a group and strip of containers for forming a bundle of consumer goods containers according to a second embodiment of the invention. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 shows a perspective view of a stack of containers according to a second embodiment of the invention. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 shows a perspective view of a group of containers and two strips for forming a bundle of consumer goods containers according to a third embodiment of the invention. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 shows a perspective view of a stack of containers according to a third embodiment of the invention. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 shows a container suitable for use with bundles of the first, second or third embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0009] According to one aspect of the invention, there is provided a bundle of containers for consumer goods, the bundle comprising: a group of containers for consumer goods, each container including a first container wall, the first container walls being arranged such that collectively the first container walls form a first side of the bundle; and a strip extending across at least the first side of the bundle, the strip being affixed to each of the first container walls thereby securing the group of containers together, the strip including a plurality of lines of weakness each extending across the first side of the bundle, the lines of weakness being arranged such that each container in the group of containers is separable from the group of containers by tearing the strip along one or more respective lines of weakness. The plurality of lines of weakness of the strip may be a plurality of interconnected lines of weakness each extending across the first side of the bundle.

[0010] In some embodiments, a bundle of containers for consumer goods is provided, the bundle comprising: a group of containers for consumer goods, each container including a first container wall, a housing for the consumer goods, and an outer wrapper wrapped around the housing, the first container walls being arranged such that collectively the first container walls form a first side of the bundle; and a strip extending across at least the first side of the bundle, the strip being affixed to each of the first containers, thereby securing the group of containers together, the strip including a plurality of lines of weakness each extending across the first side of the bundle, the lines of weakness being arranged such that each container in the group of containers is separable from the group of containers by tearing the strip along one or more respective lines of weakness. The plurality of lines of weakness of the strip may be a plurality of interconnected lines of weakness each extending across the first side of the bundle. The outer wrapper of each container is formed of substantially the same material as the strip.

[0011] As briefly described above, the present invention relates to bundles of containers of consumer goods. The bundles have strips that allow the containers to be held together in the bundle, but also to be separated from each other by separation along the strip's lines of weakness. Thus, the strips of the present invention provide a reliable means for holding multiple containers securely together in a bundle, while allowing easy access to the containers when desired. The strips may help to hold multiple containers securely together in a bundle, while using less material for such purposes than conventional means. For example, the strips may use less material than conventional clear wrappers that completely surround multiple containers. The strips may also eliminate or reduce the need for display carton housings for the bundles. Thus, the strips may improve one or both of the bundle's environmental and cost credentials.

[0012] By applying the strip to each of the first container walls, thereby securing the group of containers together, while at the same time providing the strip with a number of lines of weakness, it is possible to hold the containers securely together in the bundle, but also to separate them from each other. This can provide a convenient means for transporting and storing the containers, while providing a convenient means for the user of the bundle to access each container when desired. By arranging the lines of weakness to be interconnected with each other, it is possible to provide the user with improved flexibility as to which containers he wishes to remove from the bundle. In particular, the nature of the interconnected lines of weakness may allow the user of the bundle to choose between several containers in the bundle, which can be removed without having to first remove another container in the bundle. This can improve the flexibility of choice the consumer has as to the order in which he removes the containers from the bundle.

[0013] The group of containers may be arranged in at least two rows, each row comprising a plurality of containers. Each row may comprise at least two containers, and more preferably at least four containers. Each row may consist of ten containers or less. The group of containers may be arranged in four or less rows, three or less rows, or two or less rows. In some embodiments, the group of containers is arranged in two rows, each row consisting of five containers. Thus, the containers may be provided in a grid arrangement.

[0014] A group of containers may be grouped together such that each container abuts at least one other container in the group of containers. A group of containers may be grouped together such that a front wall, rear wall, or side wall of each container abuts a corresponding front wall, rear wall, or side wall of at least one other container. A group of containers may be grouped together such that each container abuts at least two other containers in the group of containers.

[0015] "Side," "top," "bottom," "front," "rear," and other terms used to describe the relative positions of components of a bundle according to the invention, as used herein, refer to the bundle in an upright position with the access openings of the bundle's multiple containers at the top. When describing bundles according to the invention, these terms are used regardless of the orientation of the bundle being described. The "bottom" of the bundle means the side of the bundle that is opposite the "top" of the bundle.

[0016] The terms "face" and "wall" refer more generally to a face of a bundle or a container of consumer goods. The face and wall may be formed from a single panel or component of the bundle, or from two or more overlapping panels or components of the bundle. For example, if the container includes a housing and a wrapper wrapped around the housing, the face or wall of the container may be formed by a wall of the housing and a portion of the wrapper that overlaps with the wall. As a further example, the face of the bundle may be formed by at least one wall of the container and a portion of the strip that overlaps with the one or more walls.

[0017] As an example, a side wall or side surface may extend directly from an adjacent front wall or front surface. In such cases, the wall or surface typically depends from the adjacent wall or surface along a fold line. Alternatively, the side wall or side surface may depend indirectly from the front wall or front surface, particularly in bundles with curved or chamfered edges. In such cases, a curved or chamfered edge connects the side wall or side surface to the front wall or front surface. In the case of a chamfered edge, both the side wall or side surface and the front wall or front surface may depend from the chamfered edge wall or surface that connects along the respective fold line.

[0018] The term "line of weakness" is used herein to describe a portion of the surface of the bundle (or blank forming the bundle) where the structural strength of the material forming the bundle (or blank) is weakened by any suitable technique, for example by bending, folding or tearing along the line of weakness. The line of weakness may be a straight, curved, piecemeal or continuous line, or a combination thereof. A line of weakness can be created by removing material, by displacing material, by compressing material, by locally reducing the forces holding the material together (for example by breaking fibers in a fibrous material), and by a combination of all of the above. For example, the line of weakness may be formed as a score line, a score line, an excision line, or a perforation line.

[0019] The term "scoreline" is used to describe a line formed by partially cutting into the material of a blank. A scoreline may be formed by removing material from the blank, i.e., by forming a groove or valley in the blank. Alternatively, a scoreline may be formed without removing any material from the blank. This generally involves partial lateral displacement and compression of the material.

[0020] The term "score line" generally refers to a line formed by displacing a portion of material substantially perpendicular to the plane of the blank, which results in the formation of a groove or valley in the blank. The displacement may involve compression, typically accomplished by a compression tool such as a roller. Alternatively, or additionally, the material in the score line may be displaced to protrude at least partially from the opposite side of the blank. Generally, no material is removed when the score line is formed.

[0021] The term "ablation line" is instead used to describe a line formed by ablation (such as by a laser beam or blade) removing material from the surface of a blank to a predetermined depth.

[0022] The term "perforation line" describes a line or array of individual holes or slots in a blank. The holes may be formed by pushing an object through the blank so that material may be removed from the blank, for example by punching. Alternatively, the holes may be created by using an object to push material outward from the center of the hole, effectively without removing material.

[0023] As used herein, the term "susceptor element" refers to a material capable of converting electromagnetic energy into heat. When located within a varying electromagnetic field, induced eddy currents in the susceptor element cause the susceptor element to heat up.

[0024] Each container in the bundle may include one or more of a container top wall, a container bottom wall, a container front wall, a container rear wall, and first and second container side walls, hi some embodiments, each container in the bundle may include a container top wall, a container bottom wall, a container front wall, a container rear wall, a container rear wall, and first and second container side walls.

[0025] The first vessel wall may be a vessel top wall. The first vessel wall may be a vessel bottom wall.

[0026] The bundle may include one or more of a top surface, a bottom surface, a front surface, a rear surface, and first and second sides, hi some embodiments, the bundle includes a top surface, a bottom surface, a front surface, a rear surface, and first and second sides.

[0027] The first surface of the bundle may be a top surface of the bundle.The first surface of the bundle may be a bottom surface of a bundle bottom wall.

[0028] The bundle may be in the shape of a rectangular parallelepiped. The rectangular parallelepiped may include rectangular longitudinal edges and rectangular transverse edges. The bundle may include one or more longitudinal rounded edges, transverse rounded edges, longitudinal chamfered edges, or transverse chamfered edges, or combinations thereof. The rectangular parallelepiped may include two wider faces or walls, such as a front wall and a rear wall, separated by two narrower side walls or walls.

[0029] The strip may be individually affixed to each of the first container walls by an adhesive, i.e., an adhesive may be provided between a portion of the strip and a corresponding portion of the first wall of a container in the group of containers to affix the strip to that container. Suitable adhesives include cyanoacrylate adhesives, UV curable adhesives, methyl methacrylate adhesives, and epoxy adhesives. The adhesive may be water-based. The adhesive may be solvent-based.

[0030] The strip may be individually affixed to each of the first container walls by welding, i.e., a weld may be formed between a portion of the strip and a corresponding portion of the first wall of a container in the group of containers to affix the strip to that container. The weld may be formed by applying heat to a portion of the strip and the corresponding portion of the first wall of the container.

[0031] The strip may be individually affixed to the first container wall at one or more predefined locations. The lines of weakness may be spaced apart from the one or more predefined locations. In this way, unintended interference between the lines of weakness and the means for affixing the strip to the first container wall may be minimized or avoided altogether. This may be particularly beneficial in embodiments where a group of containers is grouped together such that each container abuts at least one other container in the group of containers, and each line of weakness in the strip is located at a point where two containers in the group of containers abut each other.

[0032] The strip may extend across only a portion of the first surface of the bundle. The portion of the strip that extends across the first surface of the bundle may be spaced apart from at least one edge of the first surface of the bundle. This may help to minimize or entirely avoid unintended interference between one or more edges of the strip and one or more edges of the bundle. This may also help to facilitate easier manufacture of the bundle, as it may allow for greater tolerances in the alignment of the strip and the plurality of containers.

[0033] The portion of the strip that extends across the first face of the bundle may be spaced apart from at least a leading edge of the first face of the bundle. The portion of the strip that extends across the first face of the bundle may be spaced apart from at least a leading edge of the first face of the bundle by a distance of at least 2 millimeters, at least 5 millimeters, or at least 10 millimeters.

[0034] The portion of the strip that extends across the first face of the bundle may be spaced apart from at least the trailing edge of the first face of the bundle. The portion of the strip that extends across the first face of the bundle may be spaced apart from at least the trailing edge of the first face of the bundle by a distance of at least 5 millimeters, more preferably at least 10 millimeters.

[0035] The portion of the strip that extends across the first face of the bundle may be spaced apart from at least a first side edge of the first face of the bundle. The portion of the strip that extends across the first face of the bundle may be spaced apart from at least a first side edge of the first face of the bundle by a distance of at least 5 millimeters, more preferably at least 10 millimeters.

[0036] The portion of the strip that extends across the first side of the bundle may have a width that is less than the width of the first side of the bundle. The portion of the strip that extends across the first side of the bundle may have a width that is at least 10 millimeters less than the width of the first side of the bundle. The portion of the strip that extends across the first side of the bundle may have a width that is at least 20 millimeters less than the width of the first side of the bundle. The portion of the strip that extends across the first side of the bundle may have a width that is at least 30 millimeters less than the width of the first side of the bundle.

[0037] The plurality of lines of weakness extending across the first surface of the bundle may include a first group of lines of weakness extending across the first surface of the bundle in a first direction and a second group of lines of weakness extending across the first surface of the bundle in a second direction. The first direction may be substantially perpendicular to the second direction. The plurality of lines of weakness may be distributed in a lattice or mesh arrangement. This may allow the lines of weakness to follow a pattern defined by the boundaries between the containers in the bundle.

[0038] Each line of weakness in the strip may include one or more of an embossed line, a debossed line, a score line, and a perforation line. Each line of weakness in the strip may include a perforation line.

[0039] Each line of weakness of the strip may be located substantially at an interface between two containers in the group of containers. Each line of weakness of the strip may be located at an interface between two containers in the group of containers. An interface between two containers in the group of containers may be a point where two containers in the group of containers abut each other.

[0040] Each line of weakness of the strip may be positioned 5 millimeters or less away from a boundary between two containers in the group of containers. Each line of weakness of the strip may be positioned 2 millimeters or less away from a boundary between two containers in the group of containers. Preferably, each line of weakness of the strip may be positioned such that it lies on a boundary between two containers in the group of containers.

[0041] Each container in the group of containers may further include a second container wall opposite the first container wall. In such an embodiment, the group of containers may be arranged such that the second container walls collectively form a second side of the bundle. In such an embodiment, the strip may further extend across the second side of the bundle and be individually affixed to each of the second container walls, thereby securing the group of containers together. Thus, in such an embodiment, the strip may secure the group of containers together across two sides of the bundle. This may help the containers to be better held together within the group compared to an arrangement in which the group of containers is secured together only across a single side of the bundle.

[0042] The strip may further include a plurality of lines of weakness extending across the second surface of the bundle. The plurality of lines of weakness extending across the second surface of the bundle may be arranged such that each container in the group of containers is separable from the group of containers by tearing the strip along one or more of the lines of weakness extending across the second surface of the bundle.

[0043] The plurality of lines of weakness extending across the second face of the bundle may be a plurality of interconnected lines of weakness each extending across the second face of the bundle. The plurality of lines of weakness extending across the second face of the bundle may include a first group of lines of weakness extending across the second face of the bundle in a first direction and a second group of lines of weakness extending across the second face of the bundle in a second direction. The first direction may be substantially perpendicular to the second direction.

[0044] If the strip extends across the second side of the bundle, the strip may also extend across a third side of the bundle. The third side of the bundle may be located between the first side of the bundle and the second side of the bundle. That is, the third side of the bundle may connect the first side of the bundle to the second side of the bundle. Thus, the third side of the bundle may be considered to extend from the first side of the bundle to the second side of the bundle. The third side of the bundle may be substantially perpendicular to one or both of the first side of the bundle and the second side of the bundle.

[0045] If the strip extends across a third side of the bundle, it is preferred that the strip is not affixed to the third side of the bundle. The portion of the strip that extends across the third side of the bundle may include a label. The portion of the strip that extends across the third side of the bundle may include one or more indicia. The one or more indicia may carry brand or other information, such as information relating to any consumer goods contained in the containers of the group of containers. The portion of the strip that extends across the third side of the bundle may be free of lines of weakness.

[0046] The third side of the bundle may be the first side of the bundle. The third side of the bundle may be a side of the bundle defined by one or more container walls carrying product information. The product information may be represented by one or more barcodes, such as two-dimensional barcodes. For example, if the containers are arranged in the bundle such that one side of the bundle includes one or more barcodes, that side may be the third side of the bundle. Arranging the strip to extend across this side of the bundle may be particularly advantageous, as the strip may help to obscure one or more barcodes carried by the walls defining that side. The strip may therefore help to prevent inadvertent scanning of one or more barcodes of individual containers when the containers are held together in the bundle. This may advantageously prevent inadvertent product identification, which may lead to inadvertent handling of the bundle and / or inadvertent trading.

[0047] The strip may extend across only the first, second, and third sides of the bundle. The strip may have a substantially C-shaped profile when positioned on the bundle. This may provide a desirable balance between helping to secure the group of containers together and minimizing the amount of material required for the strip. This may facilitate one or more aspects of manufacturing, for example, as compared to bundles having two or more strips.

[0048] The strip may extend across three or fewer sides of the bundle, the strip may extend across two or fewer sides of the bundle, or the strip may extend across one or fewer sides of the bundle.

[0049] In some embodiments, the strip extending across the first side of the bundle is the first strip of the bundle. Each container may further include a second container wall opposite the first container wall, and the group of containers is arranged such that the second container walls collectively form the second side of the bundle. In such embodiments, the bundle may further include a second strip, the second strip extending across the second side of the bundle and individually affixed to each of the second container walls, thereby securing the group of containers together.

[0050] Thus, in some embodiments, the bundle includes two separate strips, each extending across opposite faces of the bundle. Each strip may thus be configured to secure the group of containers together across one face of the bundle. By disposing the strips on both sides of the bundle, the strips may be particularly effective at securing the group of containers together.

[0051] When the bundle comprises two separate strips, the lines of weakness of the first strip may be referred to as a first set of lines of weakness and the second strip may include a second set of lines of weakness. The second set of lines of weakness may extend across a second face of the bundle, and each container in the group of containers may be arranged such that it is separable from the group of containers by tearing the second strip along one or more lines of weakness of the second set of lines of weakness. Thus, each strip may include its own set of lines of weakness. Thus, removal of a first container from the bundle of containers may be accomplished by tearing each of the first and second strips along the line of weakness corresponding to the first container.

[0052] The second set of lines of weakness may be substantially aligned with the first set of lines of weakness. For example, each line of weakness in the second set of lines of weakness may have a corresponding line of weakness in the first set of lines of weakness. The correspondence between the lines of weakness may help ensure that each container is easily removable from the bundle by separation of the first and second strips along the corresponding lines of weakness. The correspondence between the first and second sets of lines of weakness may be achieved by arranging the lines to have substantially the same longitudinal and transverse positions on the bundle.

[0053] The second set of lines of weakness extending across the second face of the bundle may include a first group of lines of weakness extending across the second face of the bundle in a first direction and a second group of lines of weakness extending across the second face of the bundle in a second direction. The first direction may be substantially perpendicular to the second direction.

[0054] The first side of the bundle may be opposite the second side of the bundle. The first side of the bundle may be a top side of the bundle and the second side of the bundle may be a bottom side of the bundle. The first side of the bundle may be a bottom side of the bundle and the second side of the bundle may be a top side of the bundle.

[0055] At least a portion of the strip extending across the first face of the bundle may be substantially transparent. Preferably, the entire strip is substantially transparent.

[0056] The strip may comprise a polymeric film.The strip may comprise a polymeric film.The polymeric film may comprise polypropylene, such as biaxially oriented polypropylene.

[0057] The strip may define an outer surface of the stack of containers, i.e. the strip may be the outermost component of the stack.

[0058] The strip may extend across three or fewer sides of the bundle, the strip may extend across two or fewer sides of the bundle, or the strip may extend across one or fewer sides of the bundle.

[0059] The strip may be a sheet of paper or cardboard. In some preferred embodiments, the strip may be a multi-layer sheet. The multi-layer sheet may include a cellulosic layer and a polymer layer. The polymer layer may be provided on one or both of the inside of the cellulosic layer and the outside of the cellulosic layer. The polymer layer is preferably provided on the inside of the cellulosic layer (i.e., the side facing the contained container). The polymer layer may provide the strip with one or both of a moisture barrier and a heat sealable layer. The strip may have a thickness of about 70 micrometers to about 110 micrometers. Such strips may be preferred in ease of manufacture compared to other strip materials, since they can be folded to form a bundle without necessarily requiring additional process steps such as shrink wrapping. Paper strips may also allow the user to more easily separate the container from the bundle when desired. Paper strips may also be suitable for printing.

[0060] The bundle may comprise any suitable container for the consumer good. Each container in the group of containers may include a housing for the consumer good. Each container in the group of containers may further include an outer wrapper wrapped around the housing. The outer wrapper of each container may completely surround its respective housing. The housing may be formed from one or more folded laminar blanks. The one or more laminar blanks may be one or more cardboard laminar blanks.

[0061] The housing may have a first housing wall. The first housing wall may form the first container wall. Thus, the strip may be affixed directly to the first housing wall of each container.

[0062] If each container includes an outer wrapper wrapped around the housing, the first container wall may be formed by the first housing wall and a portion of the outer wrapper wrapped around the first housing wall. In other words, the first housing wall and the portion of the wrapper wrapped around the first housing wall may collectively form the first container wall. In this manner, the strip is individually affixed to a portion of the outer wrapper of each container.

[0063] The outer wrapper of each container may be substantially transparent. The outer wrapper of each container may comprise a polymeric film. The outer wrapper of each container may be a polymeric film. The polymeric film may comprise polypropylene, such as biaxially oriented polypropylene. The outer wrapper of each container may be formed of substantially the same material as the strip. Such a configuration may advantageously reduce the visual impact of the strip on the stack.

[0064] The housing of each container may include a box for containing the consumer good, the box may include an opening for accessing the consumer good and one or more of a box front wall, a box rear wall, a box bottom wall, and first and second opposing box side walls.

[0065] The housing of each container may further include a lid hingedly connected to the box by a hinge line extending across the box rear wall. The lid may be pivotable about the hinge line between a closed position in which the lid covers the opening of the box and an open position in which the consumer goods may be removed from the box. The lid may include a lid front wall, a lid rear wall, a lid top wall, and first and second opposing lid side walls.

[0066] The housing of each container may be in the shape of a rectangular parallelepiped. The rectangular parallelepiped may include rectangular longitudinal edges and rectangular transverse edges. The housing of each container may include one or more longitudinal rounded edges, transverse rounded edges, longitudinal chamfered edges, or transverse chamfered edges, or combinations thereof. The rectangular parallelepiped may include two wider walls, such as a front wall and a rear wall, separated by two narrower side walls.

[0067] Each container of the bundle may further include a plurality of consumer goods contained within each container. The plurality of consumer goods may be a plurality of aerosol-generating articles.

[0068] Each aerosol-generating article may include an aerosol-generating substrate, which may include a nicotine-containing material, such as a tobacco material. The aerosol-generating article may include a susceptor element. The aerosol-generating substrate may include a susceptor element.

[0069] The aerosol-generating article may be a filter cigarette or other smoking article in which the aerosol-generating substrate includes tobacco material that is combusted to form smoke. The aerosol-generating article may also be an article in which the aerosol-generating substrate, e.g., tobacco material, is heated to form an aerosol rather than combusted. The aerosol-generating article may also be an article in which a nicotine-containing aerosol is generated from tobacco material, tobacco extract, or other nicotine source without the use of combustion, and in some cases without the use of heat, e.g., through a chemical reaction.

[0070] The plurality of consumer goods may include a plurality of elongated articles, such as elongated aerosol-generating articles. Each of the elongated articles may be substantially cylindrical.

[0071] Features described with respect to one example or embodiment may also be applicable to other examples and embodiments. EXAMPLES

[0072] Below 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 other examples or embodiments described herein.

[0073] Example 1. 1. A bundle of containers for consumer goods, the bundle comprising: a group of containers for consumer goods, each container including a first container wall, the group of containers arranged such that the first container walls collectively form a first side of the bundle; and a strip extending across at least a first side of the bundle, the strip being affixed to each of the first container walls thereby securing the group of containers together, the strip including a plurality of lines of weakness each extending across the first side of the bundle, the lines of weakness being arranged such that each container in the group of containers is separable from the group of containers by tearing the strip along one or more respective lines of weakness. Example 2. A bundle of containers according to example 1, wherein the plurality of lines of weakness of the strip are a plurality of interconnected lines of weakness each extending across a first surface of the bundle. Example 3. A bundle of containers according to Example 1 or 2, wherein the plurality of lines of weakness extending across the first surface of the bundle includes a first group of lines of weakness extending in a first direction across the first surface of the bundle and a second group of lines of weakness extending in a second direction across the first surface of the bundle. Example 4. A stack of containers according to example 3, wherein the first direction is substantially perpendicular to the second direction. Example 5. A bundle of containers according to any of Examples 1-4, wherein the groups of containers are arranged in at least two rows, each row containing a plurality of containers. Example 6. A bundle of containers according to example 3, wherein the groups of containers are arranged in no more than four rows, no more than three rows, or no more than two rows. Example 7. A bundle of containers according to any of Examples 1-6, wherein the first container wall is a container top wall or a container bottom wall. Example 8. A stack of containers according to any of Examples 1-7, wherein each container comprises a container top wall, a container bottom wall, a container front wall, a container rear wall, and first and second container side walls. Example 9. A stack of containers according to any of Examples 1-8, wherein the first surface of the stack is a top surface of the stack or a bottom surface of the stack. Example 10. A stack of containers according to any of Examples 1-9, wherein the stack includes a top, a bottom, a front, a back, and first and second sides. Example 11. A stack of containers according to any of Examples 1-10, wherein the strips are individually affixed to each of the first container walls by adhesive. Example 12. A stack of containers according to any of Examples 1-11, wherein the strips are individually affixed to each of the first container walls by welding. Example 13. A stack of containers according to any of Examples 1-12, wherein the strips are individually affixed to the first container wall at one or more predetermined locations, and a plurality of lines of weakness are spaced apart from the one or more predetermined locations. Example 14. A stack of containers according to any of Examples 1-13, wherein the strip extends across only a portion of the first surface of the stack. Example 15. A stack of containers according to any of Examples 1-14, wherein a portion of the strip extending across the first side of the stack is spaced from at least one edge of the first side of the stack. Example 16. A stack of containers according to example 15, wherein a portion of the strip extending across the first side of the stack is spaced from at least a leading edge of the first side of the stack. Example 17. 17. A stack of containers according to example 15 or 16, wherein a portion of the strip extending across the first side of the stack is spaced from at least a trailing edge of the first side of the stack. Example 18. A stack of containers according to Examples 15-17, wherein a portion of the strip extending across the first surface of the stack is spaced from at least a first side edge of the first surface of the stack. Example 19. A stack of containers according to any of Examples 1-18, wherein a portion of the strip extending across the first side of the stack has a width that is less than the width of the first side of the stack. Example 20. A stack of containers according to any of Examples 1-19, wherein each line of weakness comprises one or more of an embossed line, a debossed line, a score line, and a perforation line. Example 21. A bundle of containers according to any of Examples 1-20, wherein each line of weakness comprises a perforation line. Example 22. A bundle of containers according to any of Examples 1-21, wherein each line of weakness is located or substantially located at a boundary between two containers in the group of containers, and optionally, the boundary between two containers in the group of containers is a point where two containers in the group of containers abut each other. Example 23. A bundle of containers according to any of Examples 1-22, wherein each line of weakness is positioned no more than 5 millimeters away from a boundary between two containers within a group of containers, or no more than 2 millimeters away from a boundary between two containers within a group of containers. Example 24. A bundle of containers according to any of Examples 1-23, wherein each container further includes a second container wall opposite the first container wall, the group of containers being arranged such that the second container walls collectively form a second side of the bundle, and the strip further extends across the second side of the bundle and is individually affixed to each of the second container walls, thereby securing the group of containers together. Example 25. A bundle of containers according to Example 24, wherein the strip further comprises a plurality of lines of weakness extending across the second surface of the bundle, the plurality of lines of weakness extending across the second surface of the bundle being arranged such that each container in the group of containers is separable from the group of containers by tearing the strip along one or more of the lines of weakness extending across the second surface of the bundle. Example 26. A bundle of containers according to example 25, wherein the plurality of lines of weakness extending across the second surface of the bundle is a plurality of interconnected lines of weakness each extending across the second surface of the bundle. Example 27. A bundle of containers according to Example 25 or 26, wherein the plurality of lines of weakness extending across the second surface of the bundle includes a first group of lines of weakness extending in a first direction across the second surface of the bundle and a second group of lines of weakness extending in a second direction across the second surface of the bundle. Example 28. 28. A stack of containers according to Example 27, wherein the first direction is substantially perpendicular to the second direction. Example 29. A stack of containers according to any of Examples 24-28, wherein the strip further extends across a third side of the stack, the third side of the stack extending from the first side of the stack to the second side of the stack. Example 30. A stack of containers according to Example 29, where no strip is attached to the third surface of the stack. Example 31. A stack of containers according to example 29 or 30, wherein a portion of the strip extending across a third surface of the stack comprises a label. Example 32. A stack of containers according to any of Examples 24 to 31, wherein the strip has a C-shaped profile. Example 33. A bundle of containers according to any of Examples 1-23, wherein the strip extending across the first side of the bundle is the first strip of the bundle, each container further comprising a second container wall opposite the first container wall, the group of containers being arranged such that the second container walls collectively form the second side of the bundle, and the bundle further comprising a second strip, the second strip extending across the second side of the bundle and individually affixed to each of the second container walls, thereby securing the group of containers together. Example 34. A bundle of containers according to Example 33, wherein the first strip includes a first set of lines of weakness and the second strip includes a second set of lines of weakness that extend across a second face of the bundle, and wherein each container in the group of containers is arranged such that it is separable from the group of containers by tearing the second strip along one or more of the lines of weakness in the second set. Example 35. A bundle of containers according to Example 33 or 34, wherein the second set of lines of weakness extending across the second surface of the bundle includes a first group of lines of weakness extending in a first direction across the second surface of the bundle and a second group of lines of weakness extending in a second direction across the second surface of the bundle. Example 36. A stack of containers according to any of Examples 24-35, wherein the first surface of the stack is a top surface of the stack and the second surface of the stack is a bottom surface of the stack, or the first surface of the stack is a bottom surface of the stack and the second surface of the stack is a top surface of the stack. Example 37. A stack of containers according to any of Examples 1-36, wherein at least a portion of the strip extending across the first surface of the stack is substantially transparent. Example 38. A stack of containers according to any of Examples 1 to 37, wherein the strip comprises a polymeric film. Example 39. A stack of containers according to Example 38, wherein the polymeric film comprises polypropylene, such as biaxially oriented polypropylene. Example 40. A stack of containers according to any of Examples 1-39, wherein the strip defines an outer surface of the stack of containers. Example 41. A stack of containers according to any of Examples 1-40, wherein the strip extends across no more than three faces of the stack, or the strip extends across no more than two faces of the stack, or the strip extends across no more than one face of the stack. Example 42. A bundle of containers according to any of Examples 1-41, wherein each container in the group of containers comprises a housing for a consumer product. Example 43. 43. A bundle of containers according to Example 42, wherein each container of the group of containers further comprises an outer wrapper wrapped around the housing. Example 44. A stack of containers according to example 43, wherein the housing has a first housing wall, and the first container wall is formed by the first housing wall and a portion of an outer wrapper wrapped around the first housing wall such that the strip is individually affixed to said portion of the outer wrapper of each container. Example 45. A stack of containers according to Examples 43 or 44, wherein the outer wrapper of each container is substantially transparent. Example 46. A stack of containers according to any of Examples 43-45, wherein the outer wrapper of each container comprises a polymeric film. Example 47. A stack of containers according to any of Examples 43-46, wherein the outer wrapper of each container is formed of substantially the same material as the strip. Example 48. A stack of containers according to any of Examples 43-47, wherein the outer wrapper of each container completely surrounds its respective housing. Example 49. A bundle of containers according to any of Examples 42-48, wherein the housing of each container includes a box for housing a consumer good, the box including an opening for accessing the consumer good, a box front wall, a box rear wall, a box bottom wall, and first and second opposing box side walls. Example 50. A bundle of containers according to example 49, wherein the housing of each container further includes a lid hingedly connected to the box by a hinge line extending across the rear wall of the box, the lid being pivotable about the hinge line between a closed position in which the lid covers the opening of the box and an open position in which the consumer goods can be removed from the box. Example 51. 51. A stack of containers according to example 50, wherein the lid includes a lid front wall, a lid rear wall, a lid top wall, and first and second opposing lid side walls. Example 52. A bundle of containers according to any of Examples 1-51, further comprising a plurality of consumer goods contained within each container. Example 53. A bundle of containers according to example 52, wherein the plurality of consumer goods is a plurality of aerosol-generating articles. Example 54. A bundle of containers according to any of Examples 1-53, wherein the groups of containers are grouped together such that each container abuts at least one other container in the group of containers. Example 55. A bundle of containers according to any of Examples 1-54, wherein a group of containers are grouped together such that each container abuts at least one other container in the group of containers, and each line of weakness in the strip is positioned at a point where two containers in the group of containers abut each other. Example 56. 1. A kit of parts for forming a bundle of containers, the kit of parts comprising: a plurality of containers, each container including a first container wall, the plurality of containers being grouped together such that the first container walls collectively form at least a first side of the bundle; and a strip configured to extend across the first side of the bundle, the strip configured to be affixed to each of the first container walls thereby securing the group of containers together, the strip including a plurality of lines of weakness each extending across the strip, the lines of weakness being arranged such that when the strip is secured to the group of containers, each container in the group of containers is separable by tearing the strip along one or more respective lines of weakness. Example 57. A kit of parts for forming a bundle of containers according to Examples 1 to 55.

[0074] FIG. 1 illustrates a group 50 and strip 10 of containers for forming a bundle 1 of consumer goods containers according to a first embodiment of the present invention. Each container in the group 50 is rectangular in shape having a container front wall, a container rear wall, a container top wall 51, a container bottom wall, and first and second container side walls. For ease of illustration, certain details and features of the containers 50 (such as lids) are not shown in any of FIGS. 1-7. However, further details of the exemplary containers can be seen in FIG. 8. The containers 50 are grouped together such that the front wall, rear wall, or side wall of each container abuts a corresponding front wall, rear wall, or side wall of at least one other container. The containers are shown in an upright orientation. The containers are grouped into two rows, each row including five containers.

[0075] When grouped together as shown in Figures 1 and 2, the top walls 51 of the containers collectively form the top surface 4 of the bundle 1. The bundle 1 also has a front surface 3, a first side 5, a rear surface, a bottom surface, and a second side surface. Thus, the bundle 1 has a generally rectangular parallelepiped shape. The rear surface, bottom surface, and second side surface of the bundle 1 are not visible in the perspective views of Figures 1 and 2.

[0076] 1 and 2 also show the strip 10 used to form the bundle 1 of the first embodiment. The strip 10 has a generally rectangular shape and is configured to overlie the upper wall 51 of each container. This can be best seen in FIG.

[0077] As best seen in Figure 3, the strip 10 is individually affixed to the first container wall 51 of each container at a predetermined location 104. The predetermined location 104 is generally located in the center of each of the first container walls 51 and is spaced apart from the lines of weakness, i.e., the lines of weakness are not over the location where the strip is affixed to the first container wall 51.

[0078] The strip 10 may be affixed to each of the first container walls 51 by one or both of a weld and an adhesive between the strip 10 and the first container wall 51 of each container. For ease of illustration, the locations 104 where the strip is affixed to each container are shown for only two containers in the group 50 of containers of Figures 1-3. However, it will be understood that corresponding locations exist for the remaining eight containers in the group 50 of containers of Figures 1-3.

[0079] The strip 10 includes a plurality of lines of weakness extending across the strip 10. Each line of weakness may be formed by a line of perforations in the strip 10. The plurality of lines of weakness are interconnected with one another to form an interconnected network of lines of weakness. In the particular embodiment of Figures 1-3, the plurality of lines of weakness are distributed in a lattice or mesh arrangement.

[0080] The plurality of lines of weakness of the strip 10 includes a first group of lines of weakness 101 extending in a first direction across the top surface 4 of the bundle 1 and a second group of lines of weakness 102 extending in a second direction across the second surface of the bundle. The first direction is substantially perpendicular to the second direction. The first direction generally corresponds to a direction between the front surface 3 and the back surface of the bundle 1. The second direction generally corresponds to a direction between the first side surface 5 and the second side surface of the bundle 1.

[0081] As best seen in Figures 2 and 3, the strip 10 is secured to the containers 50 such that each line of weakness of the strip 10 is located at the boundary between two containers in the group 50 of containers. As best seen in Figure 3, the manner in which the strip 10 is affixed to the containers 50 and the arrangement of the lines of weakness 101, 102 are such that each container in the group 50 of containers can be separated from the group 50 of containers by tearing the strip 10 along one or more respective lines of weakness. In particular, Figure 3 shows the bundle 1 in a configuration in which a first container 53 has been removed from the bundle 1. The first container 53 has been removed from the bundle 1 by tearing the strip 10 along the lines of weakness 105, 106 that correspond to the first container 53. These lines of weakness 105, 106 are each located at the boundary where the first container 53 abuts an adjacent container. That is, line of weakness 105 exists at the interface between first container 53 and second container 54, and line of weakness 106 exists at the interface between first container 53 and third container 55. Because the strips are individually affixed to first container 53, when such separation occurs, a portion of strip 103 is removed from bundle 1 along with first container 53.

[0082] After the first container 53 has been removed from bundle 1, the remaining containers in bundle 1 remain intact and are held securely together by strip 10. A user of bundle 1 can then select additional containers to remove from bundle 1 by tearing strip 10 along the lines of weakness that correspond to the additional containers. The configuration of the lines of weakness allows the user to select any of the remaining containers in bundle 1.

[0083] FIG. 4 shows a perspective view of a group 50 of containers and a strip 20 for forming a bundle 21 of containers of consumer goods according to a second embodiment of the invention. The group of containers in FIG. 4 is substantially the same as the group of containers in FIGS. 1-3. The strip 20 in FIG. 4 includes a first portion 100 that is substantially the same as the strip 10 in FIGS. 1-3. That is, the first portion 100 of the strip 20 is configured to be on the top surface 4 of the bundle 21 in the same manner as shown in FIGS. 1-3 for the strip 10. However, the strip 20 also includes a second portion 200 that is on the bottom surface of the bundle and is configured to be attached individually to each container bottom wall (see FIG. 5). Thus, the second portion 200 of the strip 20 may also help to hold the group 50 of containers together securely.

[0084] Strip 20 also includes a third portion 300 that connects first portion 100 to second portion 200. As best seen in FIG. 5 , third portion 300 of strip 20 is configured to overlie first side 5 of bundle 21. Third portion 300 is not affixed to the bundle container that forms first side 5 of bundle 21. Third portion 300 carries indicia 305, which may communicate brand or other information, such as information related to a consumer good contained in the container of bundle 21.

[0085] 4 and 5, the plurality of lines of weakness 101, 102 of the first portion 100 may be referred to as a first set of lines of weakness. Similarly, the second portion 200 also carries a plurality of lines of weakness 201, 202, which may be referred to as a second set of lines of weakness.

[0086] As can be best seen in Figure 5, in the assembled bundle 21 of the second embodiment, the second set of lines of weakness 201, 202 extend across the bottom surface of the bundle 21 and are arranged such that each container in the group 50 of containers is separable from the group of containers by tearing the strip 20 along one or more of the second set of lines of weakness 201, 202. In particular, in the second embodiment of Figures 4 and 5, in order to remove a container from the bundle 21, it is necessary to tear the strip 20 along both the first portion 100 and the second portion 200.

[0087] 5, in the assembled bundle 21, the second set of lines of weakness 201, 202 are substantially aligned with the first set of lines of weakness 101, 102. Furthermore, each line of weakness 201, 202 in the second portion 200 of the strip 20 is positioned at the boundary between two containers in the group 50 of containers.

[0088] Figure 6 shows a perspective view of a group 50 of containers and two strips 10, 30 for forming a bundle 31 of containers of consumer goods according to a third embodiment of the invention. The group of containers in Figure 6 is substantially the same as the group of containers in Figures 1 to 5. The strips 10, 30 in Figure 6 can be considered equivalent to the strip 20 in Figure 4, with the third portion 300 of the strip 20 removed. In other words, in Figure 6 there is a first strip 10 identical to the strip 10 in Figures 1 to 3 and a second individual strip 30 equivalent to the second portion 200 of the strip 20 in Figures 4 and 5.

[0089] Thus, the second strip 30 overlies the bottom surface of the stack 31 and is configured to be affixed individually to each container bottom wall (see FIG. 7). Thus, the second strip 30 may also help to hold the group 50 of containers securely together.

[0090] Thus, the strips 10, 30 of Figures 6 and 7 function similarly to the strips 10, 20 previously described with respect to the embodiment of Figures 1-5, the details of which will be readily understood by those skilled in the art.

[0091] FIG. 8 shows a container 800 suitable for use with a bundle of the first, second or third embodiments. The container is a hinged lid container of a type known to those skilled in the art of packaging aerosol-generating articles. The container 800 contains a bundle of packaged consumer goods 70, such as a bundle of cigarettes or aerosol-generating articles, in which an aerosol-generating substrate, e.g., tobacco material, is heated rather than combusted to form an aerosol. The container is formed from a folded laminar blank and has a lid portion 40 and a box portion 60. The lid portion has a first lid side wall 41, a second lid side wall 42 and a lid top wall 46. The lid portion also has a lid front wall 45 and a lid rear wall (not shown in FIG. 8). The box portion 60 has a box front wall 65 and a first box side wall 61. The box portion 20 also has a box bottom wall, a box rear wall and a second box side wall (not shown in FIG. 8). The lid 40 depends from an upper edge of the box rear wall along a hinge line (not shown in FIG. 8) and is movable about the hinge line between an open position (as shown in FIG. 8) and a closed position. An inner frame 68 is attached to the inside of the box 20 and includes a first inner frame sidewall 69, a second inner frame sidewall (not shown in FIG. 8), and an inner frame front wall. When used with a bundle of the first, second or third embodiments, the lid top wall 46 of the container of FIG. 8 provides a first container wall 51 and thus defines a portion of the top surface of the bundle.

Claims

1. A bundle of containers for consumer goods, said bundle comprising: a group of containers for consumer goods, each container including a first container wall, a housing for the consumer goods, and an outer wrapper wrapped around the housing, the group of containers arranged such that the first container walls collectively form a first side of the bundle; a strip extending across at least the first surface of the bundle, the strip being affixed to each of the first container walls, thereby securing the group of containers together; a bundle of containers, wherein the strip includes a plurality of interconnected lines of weakness each extending across the first surface of the bundle, the interconnected lines of weakness being arranged such that each container in the group of containers is separable from the group of containers by tearing the strip along one or more respective lines of weakness, the outer wrapper of each container comprising a polymeric film, and the strip comprising a polymeric film.

2. 2. The stack of containers of claim 1, wherein the first surface of the stack is a top surface of the stack or a bottom surface of the stack.

3. 10. The bundle of containers of claim 1, wherein the strips are individually affixed to each of the first container walls by one or both of an adhesive and a weld.

4. 2. The bundle of containers of claim 1, wherein the strips are individually affixed to the first container wall at one or more predetermined locations, and the plurality of lines of weakness are spaced apart from the one or more predetermined locations.

5. 2. The stack of containers of claim 1, wherein a portion of the strip extending across the first surface of the stack is spaced from at least one edge of the first surface of the stack.

6. 2. The stack of containers of claim 1, wherein the portion of the strip extending across the first face of the stack has a width that is less than a width of the first face of the stack.

7. each vessel further comprising a second vessel wall opposite the first vessel wall; the group of containers is arranged such that the second container walls collectively form a second surface of the bundle; 7. A bundle of containers according to any preceding claim, wherein the strip further extends across the second face of the bundle and is individually affixed to each of the second container walls, thereby securing the group of containers together.

8. the strip further includes a plurality of lines of weakness extending across the second surface of the bundle; 8. The bundle of containers of claim 7, wherein the plurality of lines of weakness extending across the second surface of the bundle are arranged such that each container in the group of containers is separable from the group of containers by tearing the strip along one or more of the lines of weakness extending across the second surface of the bundle.

9. 8. The stack of containers of claim 7, wherein the strip further extends across a third side of the stack, the third side of the stack extending from the first side of the stack to the second side of the stack.

10. 10. The stack of containers of claim 9, wherein the strip is not attached to the third surface of the stack.

11. the strip extending across the first surface of the bundle is a first strip of the bundle; each vessel further comprising a second vessel wall opposite the first vessel wall; the group of containers is arranged such that the second container walls collectively form a second surface of the bundle; 7. A bundle of containers according to any preceding claim, wherein the bundle further comprises a second strip extending across the second face of the bundle and individually affixed to each of the second container walls, thereby securing the group of containers together.

12. 12. The bundle of containers of claim 11, wherein the plurality of lines of weakness of the first strip are a first set of lines of weakness, the second strip includes a second set of lines of weakness, the second set of lines of weakness extending across the second face of the bundle, and each container in the group of containers is arranged so as to be separable from the group of containers by tearing the second strip along one or more lines of weakness of the second set of lines of weakness.

13. the strip extends across no more than three faces of the bundle, or the strip extends across no more than two faces of the bundle, or A stack of containers according to any preceding claim, wherein the strip extends across the face of no more than one of the stacks.

14. 7. The bundle of containers of claim 1, wherein the housing of each container in the group of containers has a first housing wall, the first container wall being formed by the first housing wall and a portion of the outer wrapper wrapped around the first housing wall such that the strip is individually affixed to the portion of the outer wrapper of each container.

Images