A package for storing multiple smoking articles in sequence

Abstract

A package (10) for sequencing a plurality of smoking articles is disclosed. The package includes a substantially cubic pouch (32) including a front major portion, a rear major portion, a top minor portion, a bottom minor portion, a first side portion, and a second side portion, the pouch being made from a material configured and sealed to prevent ingress of moisture into the pouch, the pouch being formed from a wrapper that is folded and sealed with a first fin seal extending along the length of the front major portion, a second fin seal extending along the length of the top minor portion, and a third fin seal extending along the length of the bottom minor portion. The first fin seal is folded to overlap each of the second and third fin seals, and the first fin seal is positioned a distance from each side portion such that the first fin seal only overlaps two other layers of the wrapper at each overlap with the second and third fin seals. The package further includes a tear tape attached to the pouch and extending along the front main portion, the first side portion, the rear main portion, and the second side portion transversely to the length of the pouch, a line of weakness formed in the pouch parallel to the tear tape such that when the tear tape is pulled by a user, the pouch can be at least partially opened along the line of weakness.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a package for arranging a plurality of smoking articles in an order, and to a box including a package for arranging a plurality of smoking articles in an order. [Background technology]

[0002] Smoking articles, such as cigarettes, are often packaged in a sealed pouch to prevent the ingress of moisture. The use of a sealed pouch increases the shelf life of the smoking article while ensuring that a high quality product is provided to the consumer. Such pouches are generally housed within a further box, such as a hinged lid box, which provides additional structural protection for the smoking articles contained within the pouch.

[0003] Accordingly, it is desirable to provide a pouch for smoking articles that is reliably sealed against the outside environment. It is further desirable to achieve this goal while minimizing the bulk of the pouch and using environmentally friendly packaging materials. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] It is an object of the present invention to address one or more of these problems. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a package for sequencing a plurality of smoking articles, the package comprising a substantially cubical pouch including a front major portion, a rear major portion, a top minor portion, a bottom minor portion, a first side portion, and a second side portion, the pouch being made from a material configured and sealed to prevent the ingress of moisture into the pouch, the pouch being a wrapper folded and having a first fin seal extending along a length of the front major portion, a second fin seal extending along a length of the top minor portion, and a third fin seal extending along a length of the bottom minor portion, the first fin seal being folded to overlap each of the second fin seal and the third fin seal, the first fin seal being folded over the first fin seal and the second fin seal being folded over the second fin seal and the third fin seal, the first fin seal being folded over the second fin seal and the third fin seal, the first fin seal being folded over the second fin seal and the third fin seal, the first fin seal being folded over the second fin seal and the third fin seal, the second fin seal being folded over the second fin seal and the third fin seal, the second fin seal being folded over the second fin seal and the third fin seal, the third fin seal being folded over the first fin seal and the third fin seal, the third fin seal being folded over the first fin seal and the third fin seal, the third fin seal being folded over the first fin seal and the third fin seal, the third fin seal being folded over the first fin seal and the third fin seal, the third fin seal being folded over the first fin seal and the third fin seal, the fourth fin seal being folded over the second fin seal and ... A package is provided that includes: a pouch formed from a wrapper sealed by a first fin seal, a second fin seal, and a third fin seal, the first fin seal being positioned a distance from each side portion such that the first fin seal overlaps only two other layers of the wrapper at each overlap with the second fin seal and the third fin seal; and a tear tape attached to the pouch and extending along the front main portion, the first side portion, the rear main portion, and the second side portion transversely to the length of the pouch, wherein a line of weakness is formed in the pouch parallel to the tear tape such that when the tear tape is pulled by a user, the pouch may be at least partially opened along the line of weakness.

[0006] Advantageously, using a fin seal to seal the pouch ensures that the smoking articles contained in the pouch are not compressed when the pouch is sealed along each fin seal. In contrast, using a lap seal to seal the pouch results in the smoking articles contained in the pouch being compressed during sealing the pouch along the lap seal. Furthermore, by positioning the first fin seal at a distance from each side portion such that the first fin seal only overlaps with two other layers of wrapper paper at each overlap with the second and third fin seal, the sealing quality at the second and third fin seals is significantly improved and the bulkiness of the pouch is reduced. That is, in a cubic pouch, each of the second and third fin seals includes four layers of overlapping wrapper paper adjacent to the side portion of the pouch, causing the excess wrapper paper to be tucked back into the second and third fin seals. In contrast, toward the center of the second and third fin seals, each of the second and third fin seals consists of only two layers of overlapping wrapper paper. Thus, by sizing and positioning the first fin seal to avoid overlap with excess wrapper tucked into the second and third fin seals, the number of overlapping layers of the first and second fin seals, and the first and third fin seals, is minimized, resulting in a higher quality seal and a less bulky pouch.

[0007] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the length of a pouch is the vertical distance between the top minor portion and the bottom minor portion, which may also be referred to as the height of the pouch.

[0008] Preferably, the tear tape is attached to an inner surface of the pouch and extends through the first fin seal to expose a tear tab that can be pulled by a user. In this manner, the tear tape is protected from the external environment by the pouch and ensures that the tear tape will tear open when pulled by a user. Additionally, routing the tear tape through the first fin seal improves manufacturability of the pouch and further reduces bulkiness.

[0009] Preferably, the first fin seal is folded towards the first side portion, the distance between the base of the first fin seal and the first side portion is greater than or equal to the sum of the width of the first fin seal and half the width of the first side portion, and the distance between the base of the first fin seal and the second side portion is greater than or equal to half the width of the second side portion.

[0010] In this way, a particular arrangement is provided which ensures that the first fin seal only overlaps with two other layers of the wrapper at each overlap with the second and third fin seals.

[0011] Preferably, the wrapper is a cellulosic wrapper, and the pouch further comprises a moisture barrier coating formed on the wrapper. In this way, the pouch is constructed from a sustainable material that is effective in sealing and protecting the smoking articles stored in the pouch from the external environment. Optionally, the pouch comprises (or consists of) a wrapper, a moisture barrier coating formed on the wrapper, and an outer coating formed on an opposite side of the wrapper to the moisture barrier coating. The outer coating may increase one or more of the strength, thickness, density, and opacity of the pouch.

[0012] For example, the wrapper may comprise (or consist of) paper, hemp fiber, extruded cellulose pulp, virgin fiber pulp, or tobacco ash in paper.

[0013] Preferably, the moisture barrier coating is a heat-sealable coating (or heat-sealable adhesive). The heat-sealable coating (e.g., a thermoplastic film) is bonded to the wrapper by applying pressure and heating the coating. The moisture barrier coating may comprise one or more layers or films. Alternatively, the moisture barrier coating may be a water-based lacquer. In a less preferred option, the moisture barrier coating is a hot melt adhesive, i.e., an adhesive that is applied in a molten state and forms a bond upon cooling to a solid state.

[0014] Preferably, the moisture barrier coating also reduces or prevents the ingress (or transmission) of oxygen, air, flavors, and / or menthol.

[0015] Preferably, the pouch (i.e., the wrapper and moisture barrier coating) has a density of 0 to 10 g / m 2 / day (at 23°C and 50% RH) Water vapor transmission rate and 10 ccm / m 2 / day (at 23° C. and 50% RH). In one embodiment, the pouch has an oxygen transmission rate of 2-10 g / m 2 / day (at 23°C, 50% RH).

[0016] Preferably, the thickness of the pouch (ie, the wrapper, the moisture barrier coating, and optionally the outer coating) is 65 to 85 μm.

[0017] Preferably, the density of the pouch (ie, the wrapper, moisture barrier coating, and optionally the outer coating) is from 50 to 92 grams per square meter, more preferably from 50 to 85 grams per square meter.

[0018] In one example, the pouch may include an outer coating, the pouch may have a thickness of 75 μm, the pouch may have a density of 90 grams per square meter, and an average water vapor transmission rate at 23° C. and 50% RH of 1 g / m 2 In another example, the pouch may not include an outer coating, the pouch may have a thickness of 67 μm, the pouch may have a density of 75 grams per square meter, and an average water vapor transmission rate of 1 g / m at 23° C. and 50% RH. 2 In another example, the pouch may not include an outer coating, the pouch may have a thickness of 65-85 μm, the pouch may have a density of 70 grams per square meter, and an average water vapor transmission rate of 3 g / m at 23° C. and 50% RH. 2In another example, the pouch may not include an outer coating, the pouch may have a thickness of 82 μm, the pouch may have a density of 75 grams per square meter, and an average water vapor transmission rate of 8 g / m at 23° C. and 50% RH. 2 may be less than / day.

[0019] Preferably, the lines of weakness are formed on the outer surface of the pouch and the moisture barrier coating is formed on the inner surface of the pouch. Preferably, the exterior coating is formed on the outer surface of the pouch.

[0020] The line of weakness may be substantially flush with the bottom edge of the tear tape. Alternatively, the line of weakness may be up to 3 mm below the bottom edge of the tear tape.

[0021] Preferably, the line of weakness extends partially through the wrapper (and / or partially or completely through the outer coating, if present). In this way, the line of weakness does not affect the sealing of the pouch against the external environment. Preferably, the line of weakness extends through less than 80%, preferably less than 70%, more preferably less than 60%, and more than 20%, preferably more than 30%, more preferably more than 40% of the thickness of the wrapper.

[0022] Preferably, the line of weakness is a pre-cut line, such as made by laser engraving, mechanical scoring, or mechanical stamping. For example, the line of weakness may partially cut the wrapper without extending through the moisture barrier coating, such as to form a kiss-cut line.

[0023] Preferably, the package further includes a stiffening element disposed within the pouch and disposed substantially flush with the inner surface of the pouch, in this manner the stiffening element provides additional stiffness so that larger sections of the pouch can be removed during opening while still maintaining adequate stiffness of the package.

[0024] Preferably, the stiffening element is a cellulosic stiffening element, for example, the stiffening element may comprise (or consist of) paper, hemp fibers, or molded cellulose pulp.

[0025] Preferably, the stiffening element is more rigid than the pouch, for example the stiffening element may have a density of 130 to 200 grams per square meter.

[0026] Preferably, the stiffening element is a folded element having a front section, a first side section and a second side section, the front section, the first side section and the second side section being arranged to interface with the front main portion, the first side section and the second side section, respectively, of the pouch, the first and second side sections having a length equal to the length of the pouch. Further, preferably, the stiffening element comprises a front section, a first side section and a second side section. In this way, the weight of the package is reduced while maintaining a high stiffness.

[0027] Preferably, the front section of the stiffening element has a notch at its top edge, the notch extending down to at least the same height as the line of weakness. In this way, access to the smoking articles is improved while maintaining a high rigidity of the package.

[0028] Preferably, the notch extends a distance below the line of weakness. In this way, the smoking article can be more easily removed from the pouch.

[0029] Preferably, the cutout has a width of at least 50% of the width of the front section. Preferably, the cutout has a length of 10-20% of the length of the front section.

[0030] Preferably, the notch is centrally located along the top edge of the front section of the stiffening element.

[0031] Preferably, the tear tape comprises a cellulosic or paper-based material. In this way, the environmental impact of the package is further reduced.

[0032] Preferably, the tear tape extends around substantially the entire periphery of the pouch.

[0033] Preferably, the tear tape is located a distance from the top non-major portion of the pouch that is 10-20% of the length of the pouch, in such a way that when the pouch is opened via the tear tape, an optimal balance is provided between the opening area for access of the smoking articles and the rigidity of the opened pouch.

[0034] Preferably, the tear tape is attached to the pouch such that a single layer of the tear tape extends through the first fin seal. In this manner, the bulk of the pouch is further reduced.

[0035] Preferably, the tear tape is configured to be pulled to separate the top section of the pouch from the bottom section of the pouch, the top section of the pouch including at least a portion of the top minor portion, the front major portion, the rear major portion, the first side portion, and the second side portion of the pouch, and the bottom section of the pouch including at least a portion of the bottom minor portion, the front major portion, the rear major portion, the first side portion, and the second side portion of the pouch.

[0036] Preferably, the pouch and / or stiffening element does not comprise a plastic film or a metal, in particular the pouch and / or stiffening element is not made of a paper laminate that comprises a plastic film or a metal.

[0037] According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a box for smoking articles comprising an outer casing having a lid movable between a closed position and a package according to the first aspect, the package being stored within the outer casing.

[0038] According to a third aspect of the present invention there is provided a system comprising a package according to the first aspect or a packet of smoking articles according to the second aspect and a plurality of smoking articles contained within a pouch.

[0039] Embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the drawings in which: [Brief description of the drawings]

[0040] [Figure 1A] 1 is a perspective view of a box for smoking articles including a pouch and a lid in an open position. [Figure 1B] FIG. 2 is a schematic side view of a box including a pouch and a lid in an open position. [Figure 1C] FIG. 2 is a schematic front view of a box including a pouch and a lid in an open position. [Figure 2A] FIG. 2 is a schematic front view of a box including a pouch and a lid in a closed position. [Figure 2B] FIG. 2 is a schematic rear view of a box including a pouch and a lid in a closed position. [Figure 3A] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a box including a pouch in an open state and a lid in an open position. [Figure 3B] FIG. 2 is a schematic side view of a box including a pouch in an open state and a lid in an open position. [Figure 3C] FIG. 2 is a schematic front view of a box including a pouch in an open state and a lid in an open position. [Figure 4A] FIG. 2 is a schematic front view of the pouch in a closed state and sealed by a first fin seal, a second fin seal, and a third fin seal. [Figure 4B] FIG. 2 is a schematic side view of the pouch in a closed position and sealed by a first fin seal, a second fin seal, and a third fin seal. [Figure 4C] FIG. 2 is a schematic side view of the pouch in a closed position and sealed by a first fin seal, a second fin seal, and a third fin seal. [Figure 4D] FIG. 2 is a schematic rear view of the pouch in a closed position and sealed by the first fin seal, the second fin seal, and the third fin seal. [Figure 5A] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a pouch including a wrapper and a moisture barrier coating formed thereon. [Figure 5B] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of a pouch additionally including an outer coating. [Figure 6]FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of the box frame in an unfolded configuration. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of the stiffening element of the box in an unfolded form. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a schematic top view of a blank that may be used to form a pouch. [Figure 9] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a partially constructed form of the pouch with only the first fin seal sealed therein. [Figure 10] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the pouch showing the sealed first and second fin seals. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0041] 1A-1C and 2A-2B show various views of a box 10 for smoking articles 8 according to the present invention. The box 10 includes an outer casing 12 including a body 14 and a lid 16. The lid 16 is hingedly connected to the body 14 by a hinge 30 such that the lid 16 may move between an open position and a closed position. While FIGS. 1A-1C show the lid 16 in a closed position, FIGS. 2A-2B show the lid 16 in an open position. In the open position, contents stored within the outer casing 12 are accessible to a user. In the closed position, the contents of the outer casing 12 are not accessible, and the body 14 and the lid 16 cooperate to define a cubic box. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the box 10, or the outer casing 12, may also be referred to as a hinged lid box.

[0042] The body 14 includes a number of panels 18-26, including a front panel 18, a back panel 20, a bottom panel 22, a first side panel 24 (i.e., the left panel), and a second side panel 26 (i.e., the face panel). The panels 18-26 cooperate to define a main section having an opening 28 opposite the bottom panel 22. The height of the back panel 20 is greater than the height of the front panel 18 such that the first side panel 24 and the second side panel 26 increase in height toward the back panel 20.

[0043] The lid 16 includes a number of panels 72-80, including a front panel 72, a back panel 74, a top panel 76, a first side panel 78 (e.g., the left panel), and a second side panel 80 (e.g., the front panel). The panels 72-80 cooperate to define a secondary compartment having an opening opposite the top panel 76. The height of the front panel 72 is greater than the height of the back panel 74 such that the first side panel 78 and the second side panel 80 increase in height toward the back panel 74.

[0044] The lid 16 is connected to the body 14 by a hinge 30 positioned between a rear panel 74 of the lid 16 and the rear panel 20 of the body 14. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the hinge 30 is not a separable component of the box 10, but instead is the connection between the rear panel 74 of the lid 16 and the rear panel 20 of the body 14 about which the lid 16 may pivot. That is, the hinge 30 may be described as a fold line or crease in the outer casing 12, which is formed from the same material as the body 14 and the lid 16.

[0045] The outer casing 12 may be made of a cellulosic material. For example, the outer casing 12 may include (or consist of) paper, hemp fiber, or molded cellulose pulp.

[0046] The outer casing 12 is configured such that the ratio of the height A of the front panel 72 of the lid 16 to the height B of the rear panel 74 of the lid 16 is between 1.8 and 2.2. For example, the ratio A / B may be 2. Advantageously, this size ratio optimizes the accessibility of the pouch 32, providing a larger open area through which the contents of the outer casing 12 may be accessed, while ensuring that the lid is not blocked from moving to the closed position. For example, it has been found that if the height B of the rear panel 74 of the lid 16 is too large, the lid 16 will be prevented from opening or closing, whereas if the height B of the rear panel 74 of the lid 16 is too small, the lid will not be able to close properly after multiple openings and the lid will likely become separated from the body. Furthermore, a larger height A of the front panel 72 of the lid 16 provides a larger area for accessing the smoking articles, while a smaller height A of the front panel 72 of the lid 16 reduces the angle through which the lid 16 must be pivoted to open the packet 10.

[0047] The outer casing 12 is further configured such that the ratio of the height B of the rear panel 74 of the lid 16 to the height C of the outer casing 12 when the lid 16 is in the closed position is between 0.15 and 0.19. For example, the ratio B / C may be 0.18. Additionally, the outer casing 12 is configured such that the ratio of the height B of the rear panel 74 of the lid 16 to the width D of the top panel 76 of the lid 16 is between 0.29 and 0.71. For example, the ratio B / D may be 0.67. These ratios further optimize the accessibility of the packet 10. One skilled in the art will appreciate that the width of the top panel is the distance between the front and rear panels of the lid.

[0048] The pouch 32 is stored within the outer casing 12. Specifically, the pouch 32 is received in the main compartment of the body 14 such that a portion of the pouch 32 protrudes through the opening 28 and is completely contained within the outer casing 12 when the lid 16 is moved to the closed position. The pouch 32 is sized to store and sequence a plurality of smoking articles 8. That is, the height of the pouch 32 is substantially equal to the height of the smoking articles 8 such that the smoking articles 8 can be immovably secured within the pouch 32. In one example, the smoking articles 8 can be cigarettes. In another example, the smoking articles 8 can be non-combustion heatable sticks.

[0049] The pouch 32 is substantially cuboid and includes a front main portion 110, a rear main portion 112, a top minor portion 114, a bottom minor portion 116, a first side portion 118 (e.g., a left portion), and a second side portion 120 (e.g., a front portion). The pouch 32 is shown in more detail in Figures 4A-4C. Figure 4A shows a schematic view of the front main portion 110 of the pouch 32, Figure 4B shows a schematic view of the first side portion 118 of the pouch 32, Figure 4C shows a schematic view of the second side portion 120, and Figure 4D shows a schematic view of the rear main portion 112 of the pouch 32.

[0050] The pouch 32 includes a wrapper 122 having a moisture barrier coating 124 formed thereon. Optionally, the wrapper 122 may also have an outer coating 125 formed on an opposite side of the wrapper 122 from the moisture barrier coating 124. The wrapper 122 is folded and sealed to form a substantially cuboid pouch 32 having an exterior surface 126 and an interior surface 128. In particular, the pouch 32 is sealed by a first fin seal 104 extending along the length of the front major portion 110 of the pouch 32, a second fin seal 106 extending along the length of the top minor portion 114 of the pouch 32, and a third fin seal 108 extending along the length of the bottom minor portion of the pouch 32. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that a fin seal is a seal formed by an edge portion of the interior surface 128 of the wrapper 122 that is sealed to another edge portion of the interior surface 128 of the wrapper 122. In contrast, for example, a lap seal is formed by sealing an edge portion of an inner surface of the wrapper to an edge portion of an outer surface of the wrapper. Advantageously, unlike a lap seal, a fin seal prevents the smoking articles 8 contained in the wrapper 122 from being compressed during sealing.

[0051] A tear tape 34 is attached to and extends around the pouch 32. The tear tape 34 is shown in Figures 4A-4C as being attached to an inner surface 128 of the pouch 32 for illustrative purposes. One skilled in the art will appreciate that in alternative embodiments, the tear tape 34 may be attached to an outer surface 126 of the pouch 32.

[0052] The tear tape 34 (also known as a tear ribbon) is a strip of material that is adhesively bonded to the pouch 32. The tear tape can be pulled by a user to open the pouch 32. In particular, the tear tape 34 is stronger than the pouch 32 such that when pulled, the pouch 32 tears open along the length of the tear tape 34. The tear tape 34 may be made of (e.g., oriented) polymers, yarns, and filaments, but is preferably made of a cellulosic material, such as paper.

[0053] As shown, the tear tape 34 extends transversely around substantially the entire circumference of the pouch 32. That is, the tear tape 34 extends in a direction perpendicular to the length of the pouch 32 around the front main portion 110, the first side portion 118, the back main portion 112, and the second side portion 120 of the pouch 32. However, in alternative embodiments, one skilled in the art will recognize that the tear tape 34 may extend around only a portion of the circumference of the pouch 32, for example, at least 90% of the circumference of the pouch 32.

[0054] The tear tape 34 is positioned to extend through the first fin seal 104 of the front main portion 112 of the pouch 32 to expose a tear tab 35 of the tear tape 34 that can be pulled by a user. Advantageously, this increases the ease of manufacturability of the pouch 32. The tear tape 34 may be attached to the pouch 32 such that only a single layer of the tear tape 34 protrudes through the first fin seal 104, thereby reducing the bulk of the pouch 32.

[0055] 1A and 1B, the bottom edge 36 of the tear tape 34 is aligned at the same height as the hinge 30 of the outer casing 12. In other words, the tear tape 34 and the hinge 30 are positioned relative to one another such that the bottom edge 36 of the tear tape 34 is positioned at substantially the same vertical height (i.e., at substantially the same position along the length of the box 10) as the hinge 30. The hinge 30, or the top edge of the back panel 20 of the body 14, is thus in the same plane as the bottom edge 36 of the tear tape 34. In this way, it is ensured that the tear tape 34 is not caught between the pouch 32 and the body 14 of the outer casing 12 when the lid 14 is in the open position. Thus, the ease of removal of the tear tape 34, and therefore opening of the pouch 32, is improved. Additionally, by positioning the bottom edge 36 of the tear tape 34 at the same height as the hinge 30, as opposed to above it, the hinge 30 (i.e., the top edge of the back panel 20 of the body 14) provides a guiding edge along which the tear tape 34 can be pulled. This further enhances the ease with which a user can open the pouch 32.

[0056] Of course, one skilled in the art will appreciate that in other embodiments, the bottom edge 36 of the tear tape 34 need not be positioned at the same height as the hinge 30. For example, the tear tape 34 may be positioned adjacent to or above the hinge 30, such as where the bottom edge of the tear tape 34 is positioned 0.5 mm, 1 mm, 1.5 mm, 2 mm, or 3 mm above the hinge, and / or the tear tape 34 may be positioned above the hinge 30 such that the distance between the bottom edge 36 of the tear tape 34 and the hinge 30 is less than the width of the tear tape 34. This arrangement also ensures that the tear tape 34 is accessible to a user.

[0057] It is further preferred that the tear tape 34 be positioned closer to the hinge 30 than to the top non-main portion 114 of the pouch 32. Advantageously, this configuration reduces the chance that the pouch 32 will tear across the top non-main portion 114, and instead promotes a clean division of the pouch 32 about its circumference.

[0058] A line of weakness 64 is formed on the outer surface 126 of the pouch 32. The line of weakness 64 allows the pouch 32 to be easily torn along the line of weakness 64 when the user pulls the tear tape 34. In one example, the line of weakness 64 may include a scored, cut, or engraved line. The line of weakness may be formed by laser marking or mechanical cutting or scoring of the wrapper 122. The line of weakness 64 extends partially through the wrapper 122 (and / or partially or completely through the outer coating 125, if present) and does not extend through the moisture barrier coating 124. This form of line of weakness may also be referred to as a kiss cut line. Advantageously, the line of weakness 64 does not extend all the way to the pouch 32, so that the pouch 32 remains sealed against the outside environment. In another example, the line of weakness 64 may include a chemically, radiationally, or mechanically weakened portion.

[0059] The line of weakness 64 is aligned adjacent to the bottom edge 36 of the tear tape 34 such that application of a pulling force to the tear tape 34 results in the pouch 32 splitting along the line of weakness 64. Specifically, the line of weakness 64 extends around the pouch 32 in a direction perpendicular to the length of the pouch 32, for example along the front main portion 110, the first side portion 118, the rear main portion 112, and the second side portion 120 of the pouch 32. Ideally, the line of weakness 64 is located flush with the bottom edge 34 of the tear tape 34 and / or the hinge 30. However, it is also possible for the line of weakness 64 to be slightly below the bottom edge 36 of the tear tape 34, as shown in Figures 4A-4C. In particular, the tear tape 34 may be up to 3 mm below the bottom edge 36 of the tear tape 34 while still providing reliable opening of the pouch 32 along the line of weakness 64.

[0060] 5A shows a cross-sectional view of the wrapper 122 and moisture barrier coating 124 forming the pouch 32. As shown, the tear tape 34 is attached to the inner surface 128 of the pouch 32, and the lines of weakness 64 are formed on the outer surface 126 of the pouch. The moisture barrier coating 124 is formed on (or forms) the inner surface 128 of the pouch 32.

[0061] 5B shows a cross-sectional view of the pouch 32 in an alternative embodiment, where the pouch 32 further includes an outer coating 125 formed on an opposite side of the wrapper 122 relative to the moisture barrier coating 124. That is, the outer coating 125 is formed on (or forms) an exterior surface 126 of the pouch 32. The outer coating 125 may be configured to increase the tensile strength of the pouch 32 and / or modify the appearance of the pouch 32, such as increasing its opacity. In this example, the line of weakness 64 extends through the outer coating 125 and partially through the wrapper 122. In an alternative example, the line of weakness extends partially through the outer coating 125.

[0062] The thickness of the pouch 32 (i.e., the wrapper 122 and the moisture barrier coating 124 and optionally the outer coating 125) may be between 65 and 85 micrometers. The density of the pouch 32 (i.e., the wrapper 122 and the moisture barrier coating 124 and optionally the outer coating 125) may be between 50 and 92 grams per square meter. For example, the density of the pouch 32 may be between 50 and 85 grams per square meter.

[0063] The wrapper 122 is made of a cellulosic material, such as paper, hemp fiber, molded cellulose pulp, virgin fiber pulp, or tobacco ash in paper. The moisture barrier coating 124 prevents the ingress of moisture through the wrapper 122, thereby protecting the smoking articles 8 contained within the pouch 32. Advantageously, by using a cellulosic wrapper 122 with a moisture barrier coating 124, as opposed to a wrapper that includes plastic or metal, the biodegradability and sustainability of the package 10 is increased without compromising the quality of the seal.

[0064] In one example, the moisture barrier coating 124 may be a heat sealable coating or film. In another example, the moisture barrier coating 124 may be a water-based lacquer. In another example, the moisture barrier coating 124 may be a hot melt adhesive.

[0065] The moisture barrier coating 124 may also reduce or prevent the transmission of oxygen, air, flavors, and / or menthol through the pouch 32.

[0066] As a result of the properties of the fin sealing and moisture barrier coating 124, the pouch 32 (i.e., the wrapper 122, the moisture barrier coating 124, and optionally the outer coating 125) has a weight of 0-10 g / m 2 / day (at 23°C and 50% RH) and water vapor transmission rate of 10 ccm / m 2 / day (at 23° C. and 50% RH). For example, the pouch 32 may have an oxygen transmission rate of 2 to 10 g / m 2 / day (at 23°C, 50% RH).

[0067] The wrapper 122, moisture barrier coating 124, and optionally the outer coating 125 (ie, the blank 130, discussed further below) may be manufactured using flexographic or gravure printing.

[0068] Exemplary material specifications for the pouch 32 are provided in the table below.

[0069] [Table 1]

[0070] 1A-1C, the box 10 further includes a frame 92 (which may be referred to as an inner frame) located between the pouch 32 and the main body 14 of the outer casing 12. The frame 92 is a folded element including a front section 94, a first side section 96 (e.g., a left section), and a second side section 98 (e.g., a front section). FIG. 6 shows the frame 92 in an unfolded form. The first side section 96 and the second side section 98 are connected to opposing sides of the front section 94 by respective fold lines. When the box 10 is constructed, the first side section 96 and the second side section 98 are folded 90 degrees about their respective fold lines, and the frame 92 is positioned between the pouch 32 and the outer casing 12 such that the front section 94, the first side section 96, and the second side section 98 of the frame 92 are positioned adjacent to (i.e., interact with) each of the front panel 18 of the body 14 and the front main section 110 of the pouch 32, each of the first side panel 24 of the body 14 and the first side section 118 of the pouch 32, and each of the second side panel 26 of the body 12 and the second side section 120 of the pouch 32, respectively.

[0071] Advantageously, the presence of frame 92 increases the rigidity of box 10, thereby providing enhanced protection and support for smoking devices 8 contained in pouch 32. Frame 92 helps to ensure reliable closure of lid 16, for example, using a "click-lock" feature described below.

[0072] 1A and 1B, the bottom edge 36 of the tear tape 34 is aligned at the same height as the top edge 100 of the front section 94 of the frame 92. In other words, the tear tape 34 and the frame 92 are positioned relative to one another such that the bottom edge 36 of the tear tape 34 is positioned at substantially the same vertical height (i.e., at substantially the same position along the length of the box 10) as the top edge 100 of the front section 94 of the frame 92. The top edge 100 of the frame 92 is thus in the same plane as the bottom edge 36 of the tear tape 34. In this way, it is ensured that the tear tape 34 is not caught between the pouch 32 and the frame 92 when the lid 16 is in the open position. Thus, the ease of removal of the tear tape 34, and therefore of opening the pouch 32, is improved. Additionally, by positioning the bottom edge 36 of the tear tape 34 substantially at the same height as the top edge 100 of the frame 92, as opposed to above the top edge 100 of the frame 92, the top edge 100 of the frame 92 provides an additional guiding edge and additional safety edge along which the tear tape 34 can be pulled, which further enhances the ease with which a user can open the pouch 32.

[0073] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that because the hinge 30, the bottom edge 36 of the tear tape 34, and the top edge 100 of the frame 92 are all positioned in the same plane, the tear tape 34 can be reliably pulled around the entire perimeter of the pouch 32 without obstruction.

[0074] Of course, those skilled in the art will also appreciate that in alternative embodiments, the top edge 100 of the frame 92 may not be exactly flush with the hinge 30 and / or the bottom edge 36 of the tear tape 34. In particular, it may still be advantageous to position the frame 92 such that the top edge 100 of the frame 92 is below the tear tape 34, e.g., 0.5 mm, 1 mm, 1.5 mm or 2 mm below the bottom edge 36 of the tear tape 34, because this configuration also ensures that the tear tape 34 is not trapped between the pouch 32 and the frame 92.

[0075] A notch 102, which may also be referred to as a recess, is formed in a top edge 100 of the front section 94 of the frame 92. The notch 102 is formed by removing a portion of material from the top edge 100 of the front section 94 of the frame 92. Preferably, the notch 102 extends a distance of up to 5 mm. For example, the notch 102 may extend 1 mm, 1.5 mm, 2 mm, 2.5 mm, or 3 mm below the top edge 100 of the frame 92.

[0076] The notch 102 is centrally located along the top edge 100 of the front section 94 of the frame 92 and preferably has a width that is at least 50% of the width of the front section 94 of the frame 92 .

[0077] Advantageously, the presence of the notch 102 improves accessibility to the smoking articles 8 contained in the pouch 32 when the pouch 32 is opened, without adversely affecting the stiffening effect provided by the frame 92.

[0078] The front section 94 of the frame 92 further includes a tongue 66, which may be referred to as a tab, disposed to project away from a surface of the front section 94 of the frame 92. A complementary recess 68 is provided in a secondary section of the lid 16 in the front panel 72 of the lid 16. When the lid 16 is in the closed position, the tongue 66 is configured to engage the recess 68 such that the lid 16 is retained in the closed position. A threshold force applied by a user is required to disengage the tongue 66 from the recess 68 such that the lid 16 is moved to the open position. This is sometimes referred to as a "click-lock" mechanism.

[0079] The first and second side sections 96, 98 of the frame 92 are shaped to allow the lid 16 to move unobstructed to the closed position. In particular, the first and second side sections 96, 98 have top edges that slope downward (e.g., curve downward) from the top edge 100 of the front section 94 of the frame 92. This means that the lid 16 does not collide with the first and second side sections 96, 98 of the frame 92 as it moves to the closed position. Of course, those skilled in the art will recognize that the particular shape of the frame 92 shown in FIG. 8 is not essential and may be modified. For example, the first and second side sections 96, 98 of the frame 92 may have flat top edges.

[0080] The frame 92 may be made from a cellulosic material, such as paper, hemp fiber, or molded cellulose pulp. Advantageously, the frame 92 may have a higher stiffness than the pouch 32. For example, the frame 92 may have a density of 130 to 200 grams per square meter.

[0081] Figures 3A-3C show the pouch 32 in an open condition with the tear tape 34 pulled to remove the top section 38 of the pouch 32 from the bottom section 40 of the pouch 32, thereby exposing the smoking articles 8 contained within the pouch 32. For ease of illustration, reference numbers for features previously labeled in Figures 1A-1C have been omitted from Figures 3A-3C.

[0082] A stiffening element 82 is positioned between the pouch 32 and the smoking articles 8 contained in the pouch 32. The stiffening element 82 is exposed when the pouch 32 is opened.

[0083] The stiffening element 82 is a folded element including a front section 84, a first side section 88 (e.g., a left section), and a second side section 90 (e.g., a face section). Figure 7 shows the stiffening element 82 in an unfolded form. The first side section 88 and the second side section 90 are connected to opposite sides of the front section 84 by respective fold lines. When the box 10 is constructed, the first side section 88 and the second side section 90 are folded 90 degrees about their respective fold lines, and the stiffening element 82 is positioned between the pouch 32 and the smoking articles 8 such that the front section 84, the first side section 88, and the second side section 90 of the stiffening element 82 are positioned adjacent to (i.e., interact with) the front main portion 110 of the pouch 32, the first side portion 118 of the pouch 32, and the second side portion 120 of the pouch 32, respectively.

[0084] Advantageously, the presence of the stiffening element 82 further increases the rigidity of the box 10, thereby further increasing protection and support of the smoking articles 8 contained in the pouch 32 while ensuring that the tear tape 34 remains accessible to the user.

[0085] The height of the stiffening element 82, and in particular the height of the first side section 88 and the second side section 90 of the stiffening element 82, is equal to the height of the pouch 32. This arrangement provides optimal protection and support for the smoking articles 8 contained in the pouch 32.

[0086] The stiffening element 82 has a top edge 85 with a notch 86 formed therein. That is, a portion of material is removed along the top edge 85 of the front section 84 of the stiffening element 82 to form the notch 86, which may be referred to as a recessed portion.

[0087] The notch 86 extends below the bottom edge 36 and / or the line of weakness 64 of the tear tape 34. In this manner, when the tear tape 34 is pulled to open the pouch 32, additional smoking article 8 is exposed through the cutout 86, allowing a user to easily grasp and remove the smoking article 8. Preferably, the cutout 86 extends below the top edge 85 of the stiffening element 82 a distance between 10% and 30% of the height of the front section 84 of the stiffening element 82. For example, the cutout may extend 10 mm, 11 mm, 12 mm, 13 mm, 14 mm, or 15 mm below the top edge 85 of the stiffening element 82.

[0088] The notch 86 is centrally positioned along the top edge 85 of the front section 84 of the stiffening element 82, thereby providing optimal access to the smoking article 8. The notch 86 may have a width that is at least 50% of the width of the front section 84 of the stiffening element 82.

[0089] The stiffening element 82 may be made from a cellulosic material, such as paper, hemp fiber, or molded cellulose pulp. Advantageously, the stiffening element 82 may have a higher stiffness than the pouch 32. For example, the stiffening element 82 may have a density of 130 to 200 grams per square meter.

[0090] The pouch 32 may be formed from a blank 130 that includes the wrapper 122 and the moisture barrier coating 124 (and in some embodiments, an outer coating 125). The blank 130 is shown in FIG.

[0091] The blank 130 includes a plurality of panels 136-152 separated by fold lines. The plurality of panels 136-152 includes a first front blanking panel 132 and a second front blanking panel 134 that cooperate to form a front main portion 110 of the pouch 32. The plurality of panels 136-152 further includes a rear blanking panel 136 that cooperate to form a rear main portion 112 of the pouch. The plurality of panels 136-152 further includes a first top blanking panel 138, a second top blanking panel 140, and a third top blanking panel 142 that cooperate to form a top minor portion 114 of the pouch 32. The plurality of panels 136-152 further includes a first bottom blanking panel 144, a second bottom blanking panel 146, and a third bottom blanking panel 148 that cooperate to form a bottom minor portion 116 of the pouch 32. The plurality of panels 136-152 further includes a first side blanking panel 150 and a second side blanking panel 152 for forming the first side portion 118 and the second side portion of the pouch 32, respectively.

[0092] The blank 130 includes a first longitudinal fin tab 154 and a second longitudinal fin tab 156 , a top transverse fin tab 158 , and a bottom transverse fin tab 160 that form the boundaries (ie, edges) of the blank 130 .

[0093] Blank 130 (and therefore also panels 136-152 and tabs 154-160) may be described as having two sides: an outer side and an opposing inner side. Once formed, outer side 126 of pouch 32 corresponds to the outer side of blank 130, and inner side 128 of pouch 32 corresponds to the inner side of blank 130. Moisture barrier coating 124 is formed on the inner side of blank 130, and outer coating 125 is optionally formed on the outer side of blank 130.

[0094] The tear tape 34 is attached to the inner surface of the blank 130 and extends in a straight line across the second longitudinal fin tab 156, the first front blank panel 132, the second side blank panel 152, the rear blank panel 136, the first side blank panel 150, the second front blank panel 134, and the first longitudinal fin tab 154. Optionally, the tear tape 34 may extend only across one of the first longitudinal fin tab 154 and the second longitudinal fin tab 156. In this manner, when the pouch 32 is constructed, only a single layer of the tear tape 34 extends through the first fin seal 104, thereby reducing the bulk of the pouch 32.

[0095] The line of weakness 64 is formed in the outer surface of the blank 130 and extends parallel to and adjacent to the bottom edge 36 of the tear tape 34, as described above.

[0096] To form the container 32 from the blank 130, the panels 136-152 and tabs 154-160 are each folded about respective fold lines connecting them to the other panels 136-152 and tabs 154-160 of the blank 130. The panels 136-152 and tabs 154-160 are each folded approximately 90 degrees at their respective fold lines. The first longitudinal fin tab 154 is sealed to the second longitudinal fin tab 156 along the inner surface, thereby forming the first fin seal 104. The top transverse fin tab 158 is sealed to itself along the inner surface, thereby forming the second fin seal 106. The bottom transverse fin tab 160 is sealed to itself along the inner surface, thereby forming the third fin seal 108. Each fin seal 104-108 may be sealed using a suitable adhesive.

[0097] 4A-4C, the first fin seal 104, the second fin seal 106, and the third fin seal 108 are typically folded against (e.g., laid substantially flat against) the front major portion 110, the top minor portion 114, and the bottom minor portion 116 of the pouch 32, respectively. The first fin seal 104 is typically folded against the front major portion 110 prior to sealing of the second fin seal 106 and the third fin seal 108.

[0098] The fin seals 104-108 are effective to seal the pouch 32 from the outside environment. The smoking articles 8 may be provided within the pouch 32 either before or during the folding and sealing process.

[0099] When the pouch 32 is formed from the blank 130, the tear tab 35 of the tear tape 34 is positioned to protrude through the first fin seal 104 so that it can be pulled by a user.

[0100] 9 shows a partially constructed form of the pouch 32 with only the first fin seal 104 formed. The first fin seal 104 has a base 105 about which the first fin seal 104 may pivot. The base 105 corresponds to the fold line of the blank 130 that connects the first and second longitudinal fin tabs 154, 156 to the second and first front blank panels 134, 132, respectively. That is, the base 105 is the pivot axis of the first fin seal 104 that extends along the length 110 of the front main portion of the pouch 32. In the illustrated state, the first fin seal 104 projects away from the pouch 32 and has not yet been folded against the front main portion 110 of the pouch 32.

[0101] To form the second fin seal 106 and the third fin seal 108, the top transverse fin tab 158 is sealed to itself along its inner surface and the bottom transverse fin tab 160 is sealed to itself along its inner surface.

[0102] Top cross fin tab 158 and bottom cross fin tab 160 each include a side segment 162. Due to geometric constraints and to prevent material from extruding from the second fin seal 106 and third fin seal 108, side segment 162 is tucked into and sealed within second fin seal 106 and third fin seal 108, respectively. That is, side segment 162 is folded, for example, in an accordion-like arrangement, and sealed between the inner surfaces of top cross fin tab 158 and bottom cross fin tab 160, respectively, as shown in FIG.

[0103] In particular, Figure 10 shows the pouch 32 with the first fin seal 104 sealed and folded against the front main portion 110 of the pouch 32, and the second fin seal 106 subsequently formed and sealed. For ease of illustration, the third fin seal 108 is not shown in Figure 10, however, one skilled in the art will understand that the third fin seal 108 is configured similarly to the second fin seal 106, mutatis mutandis.

[0104] As a result of folding or interleaving the side segments 162 at the second fin seal 106, two lofty regions 164 are formed adjacent the first side portion 118 and the second side portion 120 of the pouch 32, respectively. The lofty regions 164 are comprised of four layers of the wrapper 122. In contrast, away from the first side portion 118 and the second side portion 120, i.e., toward the center of the second fin seal 106, only two layers of the wrapper 122 are present along the second fin seal 106.

[0105] The first fin seal 104 is positioned such that the first fin seal 104 does not overlap any of the lofty regions 164, i.e., the first fin seal 104 does not overlap the regions of the second fin seal 106 where the side segments 162 are present. In other words, the first fin seal 104 is sized and positioned such that when the first fin seal 104 is folded against the front main portion 110 of the pouch 132, the first fin seal 104 overlaps only two layers of the wrapper 122 of the second fin seal 106 (i.e., the two layers of the top cross fin tab 158). The first fin seal 104 does not overlap the side segments 164.

[0106] The first fin seal 104 is folded toward the first side portion 118 of the pouch 32. One skilled in the art will appreciate that when the side segments 162 are folded at their midpoints before being sealed within the second fin seal 106, the length of each lofty region 164 is approximately equal to the width of the first side portion 118 (or second side portion 120) of the pouch 32 x the width of the first side portion 118 (or second side portion 120) of the pouch 32. 4 It is recognized that the distance between the base 105 of the first fin seal 104 and the first side portion 118 of the pouch 32 is equal to half of the distance X between the base 105 of the first fin seal 104 and the first side portion 118 of the pouch 32 to ensure that overlap with the bulky region 164 is avoided. 2 is the width X of the first fin seal 104 1 and the width X of the first side portion 118 of the pouch 32 4 Additionally, the distance X between the base 105 of the first fin seal 104 and the second side portion 120 of the pouch 32 is greater than or equal to the sum of 3 is the width X of the second side portion 120 of the pouch 32 4 More than half of X 1 +0.5X 4 ≦X 2 and 0.5X 4 ≦X 3 .

[0107] Advantageously, by positioning the first fin seal 104 to avoid overlap with three or more layers of the wrapper 122 along the second fin seal 106, the bulk of the pouch 32 is reduced and the sealing quality of the second fin seal 106 is improved. In particular, when the second fin seal 106 is sealed, the wrapper 122 is squeezed and compressed along the length of the second fin seal 106. Thus, if the first fin seal 104 overlaps with the bulky region 164 when the first fin seal 104 is folded against the pouch 32, six layers of the wrapper 122 will be squeezed and compressed in the bulky region 164, thereby resulting in a poor quality seal of the second fin seal 106. Thus, by avoiding overlap between the first fin seal 104 and the bulky region 164 and ensuring that there are a maximum of four overlapping layers of the wrapper 122 at all positions along the second fin seal 106, the sealing quality of the second fin seal 106 is significantly improved. Similar comments apply mutatis mutandis to the third fin seal 106 .

Claims

1. A package for arranging a plurality of smoking articles in an order, a substantially cubic pouch, the substantially cubic pouch including a front major portion, a rear major portion, a top minor portion, a bottom minor portion, a first side portion, and a second side portion, the pouch being made from a material configured and sealed to prevent the ingress of moisture into the pouch, the pouch being a wrapper, folded and a first fin seal extending along the length of the front major portion, a second fin seal extending along the length of the top minor portion, and a third fin seal extending along the length of the bottom minor portion; a pouch formed from a wrapper paper sealed by a first fin seal, a second fin seal, and a third fin seal, wherein the first fin seal is folded to overlap each of the second fin seal and the third fin seal, and the first fin seal is positioned at a distance from each side portion so that the first fin seal overlaps only two other layers of the wrapper paper at each overlapping portion with the second fin seal and the third fin seal; a tear tape attached to the pouch and extending transversely to a length of the pouch along the front main portion, the first side portion, the rear main portion, and the second side portion, wherein a line of weakness is formed in the pouch parallel to the tear tape such that when the tear tape is pulled by a user, the pouch may be at least partially opened along the line of weakness; Including the package.

2. the tear tape is attached to an inner surface of the pouch and extends through the first fin seal to expose a tear tab that is pulled by a user; The package of claim 1.

3. The first fin seal is folded toward the first side portion, and the distance between the base of the first fin seal and the first side portion is equal to or greater than the sum of the width of the first fin seal and half the width of the first side portion, and the distance between the base of the first fin seal and the second side portion is equal to or greater than half the width of the second side portion.

3. The package of claim 1 or 2.

4. the wrapping paper is a cellulosic wrapping paper; the pouch further comprising a moisture barrier coating formed on the wrapper; 3. The package of claim 1 or 2.

5. The moisture barrier coating is a water-based lacquer or a heat-sealable coating.

5. The package of claim 4.

6. the lines of weakness are formed on an outer surface of the pouch and the moisture barrier coating is formed on the inner surface of the pouch.

5. The package of claim 4.

7. the lines of weakness extend partially through the wrapper; 3. The package of claim 1 or 2.

8. the package further includes a stiffening element disposed within the pouch and positioned substantially flush with the inner surface of the pouch; Preferably, the stiffening element comprises a cellulosic material.

3. The package of claim 1 or 2.

9. the stiffening element is a folded element having a front section, a first side section, and a second side section; the front section, first side section, and second side section are positioned to interact with the front main portion, first side portion, and second side portion of the pouch, respectively; the first and second side sections each having a length equal to the length of the pouch; The package of claim 8.

10. the front section of the stiffening element having a notch at its top edge; the notch extends down to at least the same height as the line of weakness; 10. The package of claim 9.

11. the notch extends a distance below the line of weakness; The package of claim 10.

12. the notch has a width of at least 50% of the width of the front section and a length of 10-20% of the length of the front section of the stiffening element; The package of claim 10.

13. the tear tape comprises a cellulosic material.

3. The package of claim 1 or 2.

14. A box for smoking articles, comprising: an outer casing having a lid movable between an open position and a closed position; 3. The package according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the package is housed within the outer casing; A box body including:

15. A package according to claim 1 or 2; a plurality of smoking articles contained within the pouch; A system including:

Images