Container for consumer goods having a housing and an outer wrapper

Abstract

A method of forming a container 1 for consumer goods is provided. The method includes the steps of folding a sheet (100) to form a housing (10) for consumer goods, providing an outer wrapper (101), wherein the outer wrapper (101) includes a cellulosic layer (40) and a heat-sealable polymer layer (41) is provided on at least the inner surface of a first portion (71) of the outer wrapper (101), folding the outer wrapper (101) around the housing (10) such that the first portion (71) of the outer wrapper (101) forms a rectangular fold at a first end (25) of the housing (10), wherein an outer second portion (72) forms an envelope fold at the first end (25) of the housing (10) and the first portion (71) overlaps the second portion (72) at the first end (25) of the housing (10) to cover the first end (25), and heating the housing (10) and the outer wrapper (101) to seal the outer wrapper (101) onto the housing (10).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a container for consumer goods and a method for forming a container for consumer goods. The container according to the present invention has a specific use as a container for an aerosol-generating article or a component of an aerosol-generating article.

Background Art

[0002] It is generally known to package an aerosol-generating article or other consumer goods in a container formed from a folded cellulosic fiber-based laminated blank. For example, aerosol-generating articles such as cigarette papers are commonly sold in hinge-lid packs having a box for containing the aerosol-generating article and a lid connected to the box about a hinge line for opening the pack, and thus access to the aerosol-generating article held in the box is possible.

[0003] It is also known to package consumer goods in a container having a housing wrapped with an outer wrapper to further protect the consumer goods contained therein.

[0004] One type of aerosol-generating article is a cigarette or cigar. These typically comprise a rod of tobacco cut filler surrounded by a paper wrapper and a cylindrical filter aligned in an end-to-end contact relationship with the wrapped tobacco rod, and the filter is attached to the tobacco rod by tipping paper.

[0005] Other types of aerosol-generating articles include those in which the aerosol-forming substrate, such as tobacco, is heated rather than burned. For example, an electrically operated smoking system typically includes an aerosol-generating device having a housing for receiving an aerosol-generating article or a smoking article. A charger unit is usually provided integrally with the primary device for receiving the aerosol-generating device or additionally provided to the primary device for receiving the aerosol-generating device. The charger unit is used to provide power to the aerosol-generating device, for example, by charging a battery within the device.

[0006] It is generally desirable to provide a container having a barrier between the consumer goods within the housing and the ingress of moisture or other outside elements that can damage or spoil the consumer goods. For example, a plastic outer wrapper may be provided to provide such a barrier between the consumer goods and the external environment. However, such plastic packaging solutions, generally involving single-use of non-recyclable plastics, are currently a major problem in the packaging industry. This is due to the increased sensitivity to environmental issues and the growing demand for more sustainable packaging alternatives. More recently, cellulose-based outer wrappers have been adopted that provide a heat-sealable coating for sealing the consumer goods within the container. However, such cellulose-based wrappers require a relatively large amount of heat-sealable coating and complex folds to ensure proper sealing of the container. Summary of the Invention Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0007] Therefore, it would be desirable to provide a container for consumer goods of the above type that has an improved solution for a more environmentally friendly packaging solution without being troubled by the above-mentioned drawbacks. Means for Solving the Problems

[0008] The present disclosure relates to a method of forming a container for consumer goods. The method may include providing a housing for consumer goods, providing an outer wrapper, wherein the outer wrapper includes a cellulosic layer and a heat-sealable polymer layer may be provided on at least an inner surface of a first portion of the outer wrapper, folding the outer wrapper around the housing such that the first portion of the outer wrapper is over a second portion on an outer side at a first end of the housing and covers the first end, and heating the housing and the outer wrapper to seal the outer wrapper onto the housing.

[0009] The present disclosure also relates to a container for consumer goods. The container may include a housing for consumer goods. The container may include an outer wrapper. The outer wrapper may have an inner surface and an outer surface. The outer wrapper may include a cellulosic layer. The outer wrapper may be wound around the housing such that a first portion of the outer wrapper is over a second portion on an outer side at a first end of the housing. The first portion may be over the second portion to cover the first end of the housing. The first portion of the outer wrapper may form a rectangular fold. The outer wrapper may further include a heat-sealable polymer layer. The heat-sealable polymer layer may be provided on at least an inner surface of the first portion of the outer wrapper to seal the outer wrapper at the first end of the housing.

[0010] According to the present invention, a method for forming a container for consumer goods is provided. The method includes providing a housing for consumer goods and providing an outer wrapper, wherein the outer wrapper includes a cellulosic layer and a heat-sealable polymer layer is provided on at least the inner surface of a first portion of the outer wrapper. The method further includes folding the outer wrapper around the housing such that a first portion of the outer wrapper is over a second portion of the outer wrapper at a first end of the housing and covers the first end of the housing, and wherein the first portion forms a rectangular fold, and heating the housing and the outer wrapper to seal the outer wrapper onto the housing. The method may include folding a sheet to form the housing.

[0011] According to the present invention, a container for consumer goods is also provided. The container includes a housing for consumer goods and an outer wrapper having an inner surface and an outer surface. The outer wrapper includes a cellulosic layer. The outer wrapper is wound around the housing such that a first portion of the outer wrapper is over a second portion of the outer wrapper at a first end of the housing and covers the first end of the housing, and wherein the first portion forms a rectangular fold. The outer wrapper further includes a heat-sealable polymer layer provided on at least the inner surface of the first portion of the outer wrapper for sealing the outer wrapper at the first end of the housing.

[0012] According to the present invention, there is also provided a method of forming a container for consumer goods, the method comprising providing a housing for consumer goods and an outer wrapper having an inner surface and an outer surface, the outer wrapper including a cellulosic layer, wherein a first portion of the outer wrapper that is dependent on a fold of a first wall of the outer wrapper is over a second portion of the outer wrapper at a first end of the housing and is wrapped around the housing so as to cover the first end of the housing, the first portion completely overlapping the first end of the housing, the first portion of the outer wrapper forming a rectangular fold, and the outer wrapper further comprising a heat-sealable polymer layer provided on at least the inner surface of the first portion of the outer wrapper for sealing a heat-sealable polymer layer at the first end of the housing.

[0013] According to the present invention, there is also provided a container for consumer goods, the container comprising a housing for consumer goods and an outer wrapper having an inner surface and an outer surface, the outer wrapper including a cellulosic layer, wherein a first portion of the outer wrapper that is dependent on a fold of a first wall of the outer wrapper is over a second portion of the outer wrapper at a first end of the housing and is wrapped around the housing so as to cover the first end of the housing, the first portion completely overlapping the first end of the housing, the first portion of the outer wrapper forming a rectangular fold, and the outer wrapper further comprising a heat-sealable polymer layer provided on at least the inner surface of the first portion of the outer wrapper for sealing a heat-sealable polymer layer at the first end of the housing.

[0014] According to the present invention, there is also provided a method of forming a container for consumer goods, the method comprising providing a housing for consumer goods and an outer wrapper having an inner surface and an outer surface, the outer wrapper including a cellulosic layer, wherein a first portion of the outer wrapper that is subordinate to a fold of a first wall of the outer wrapper is over the second portion of the outer wrapper at a first end of the housing, and is wound around the housing so as to cover the first end of the housing, the first portion completely overlapping the first end of the housing, the first portion of the outer wrapper forming a rectangular fold, and the outer wrapper further comprising a heat-sealable polymer layer provided on at least the inner surface of the first portion of the outer wrapper for sealing a heat-sealable polymer layer at the first end of the housing.

[0015] According to the present invention, there is also provided a container for consumer goods, the container comprising a housing for consumer goods and an outer wrapper having an inner surface and an outer surface, the outer wrapper including a cellulosic layer, wherein a first portion of the outer wrapper that is subordinate to a fold of a first wall of the outer wrapper is over the second portion of the outer wrapper at a first end of the housing, and is wound around the housing so as to cover the first end of the housing, the first portion completely overlapping the first end of the housing, the first portion of the outer wrapper forming a rectangular fold, and the outer wrapper further comprising a heat-sealable polymer layer provided on at least the inner surface of the first portion of the outer wrapper for sealing a heat-sealable polymer layer at the first end of the housing.

[0016] According to the present invention, there is also provided a method of forming a container for consumer goods, the method including providing a housing for consumer goods and an outer wrapper having an inner surface and an outer surface, the outer wrapper including a cellulosic layer, at a first end of the housing, the outer wrapper consisting of a first portion and a second portion, each being dependent on its respective fold, the outer wrapper being wound around the housing such that the first portion of the outer wrapper completely overlaps the second portion of the outer wrapper at the first end of the housing to cover the first end of the housing, the first portion of the outer wrapper forming a rectangular fold, the outer wrapper further comprising a heat-sealable polymer layer provided on at least the inner surface of the first portion of the outer wrapper for sealing a heat-sealable polymer layer at the first end of the housing.

[0017] According to the present invention, there is also provided a container for consumer goods, the container comprising a housing for consumer goods and an outer wrapper having an inner surface and an outer surface, the outer wrapper including a cellulosic layer, at a first end of the housing, the outer wrapper consisting of a first portion and a second portion, each being dependent on its respective fold, the outer wrapper being wound around the housing such that the first portion of the outer wrapper completely overlaps the second portion of the outer wrapper at the first end of the housing to cover the first end of the housing, the first portion of the outer wrapper forming a rectangular fold, the outer wrapper further comprising a heat-sealable polymer layer provided on at least the inner surface of the first portion of the outer wrapper for sealing a heat-sealable polymer layer at the first end of the housing.

[0018] As used herein, the terms "side", "top", "bottom", "front", "rear" and other terms used to describe the relative positions of the components of the container according to the present invention mean a container in an upright position with an access opening at the top. When describing the container according to the present invention, these terms are used regardless of the orientation of the container being described. The "bottom" of the container means the side of the container opposite the "top" of the container.

[0019] As used herein, the term "height" means the dimension extending between a top and a bottom. As used herein, the term "width" means the dimension extending between two sides. As used herein, the term "depth" means the dimension extending between a front and a rear. The height, width, and depth are perpendicular to each other.

[0020] The term "wall" more generally means a surface of a container, and the wall may be formed from a single panel or flap, or the wall may be formed from two or more abutting or overlapping panels or flaps.

[0021] As used herein, the term "end" is used to refer to one of the secondary walls of a container or housing. The end may refer to one of the top wall, the bottom wall, or the first or second opposing side walls.

[0022] The term "dependent" as used herein is used to describe a physical connection between two elements of a container according to the present invention. More specifically, the term "dependent" is used to indicate that there is a continuity of material between two elements, such as two walls or panels of a container or blank. This includes both cases where a wall or panel is directly dependent on an adjacent wall or panel, and cases where an intermediate wall or panel effectively connects two walls or panels.

[0023] As an example, a side wall or a side panel may be directly subordinate to an adjacent front wall or a front panel. In such cases, the wall or panel typically subordinates along a fold line from the adjacent wall. As another method, especially in a container having a rounded or chamfered edge, the side wall or the side panel may be indirectly subordinate to the front wall or the front panel. In such cases, the wall or panel having a rounded or chamfered edge connects the side wall or the side panel and the front wall or the front panel. In the case of a chamfered edge, both the side wall or the side panel and the front wall or the front panel may subordinate to a wall or panel having a chamfered edge end that connects along their respective fold lines. As used herein, the term "hinge line" means a line about which a lid can pivot to open a container. The hinge line may be, for example, a fold line or a score line. The hinge line about which the lid is connected to the box may coincide with the edge of the container, or the hinge line may extend across the wall of the container at a position with a gap from the edge.

[0024] The term "heat-sealable layer" is used herein to refer to a layer that can be fusion-bonded by conventional indirect heating means that generate sufficient heat on at least one film contact surface to conduct to an adjacent film contact surface and form an adhesive interface between the surfaces without impairing the integrity of the film. The adhesive interface between the continuous layers preferably has sufficient physical strength to withstand the packaging process and subsequent handling. The heat-sealable layer can be designed to meet different conditions of the intended use, and various formations of heat-sealable layers are known in the art and can be employed in the present invention.

[0025] The term "mark" is used herein to refer to one or more individual visual elements, or repetitive visual elements or patterns that may provide an aesthetically pleasing or useful representation. A mark can be in the form of text, an image, characters, words, a logo, a pattern, or a combination thereof. As an example, a mark may be a brand or manufacturer's logo that can identify the type and origin of a consumer good, including a container. Additionally, or alternatively, a mark may be associated with information regarding manufacture and may comprise an identification code that can be used to authenticate a consumer good.

[0026] The term "envelope fold" is used herein to describe the result of a fold in which two or more panels or flaps of a wrapper overlap at least partially to form a wall. Thus, the wall formed by an envelope fold consists of an overlapping wall portion where two or more partially overlapping panels or flaps overlap, and a non-overlapping wall portion formed by the non-overlapping portions of the partially overlapping panels or flaps.

[0027] The term "rectangular fold" is used herein to describe a fold that includes folding a rectangular portion of a wrapper around a fold that extends along one of the edges of the rectangular portion.

[0028] As used herein, the term "on" is used to refer to a portion of a wrapper or housing that completely covers another portion of the wrapper or housing.

[0029] The term "seal" is used herein to refer to the act of closing an opening to restrict the entry of water or debris.

[0030] The method disclosed herein may include providing a housing for a consumer product, and providing an outer wrapper that includes a cellulosic layer and has a heat-sealable polymer layer provided on at least an inner surface of a first portion of the outer wrapper, folding the outer wrapper around the housing, and heating the housing and the outer wrapper to seal the outer wrapper onto the housing.

[0031] The method according to the present invention provides an improved method for forming a container for a consumer product. In contrast to existing containers, the recyclability of the containers according to the method of the present invention is equal to or better than current packaging solutions. In the implementation of the method according to the present invention for forming a container, an equal amount or less of plastic is used and an equal amount or more of cellulosic material is used as compared to a cellulosic container wrapped in a transparent plastic film.

[0032] Furthermore, since the cellulosic layer forms the outer surface of the container formed according to the method of the present invention, consumers accustomed to outer wrappers of plastic films recognize that the container is more environmentally friendly. Further, any markings, such as trademarks, etc., can be easily formed or printed according to standard processes even when provided on the outer surface of the cellulosic layer.

[0033] The container according to the method of the present invention is easy to manufacture and does not require significant modification of existing packaging equipment. In particular, little or no change is required to the form of the folding process or packaging machinery that handles sheets for forming the housing.

[0034] Furthermore, since the outer wrapper is permanently attached to the housing, no waste is generated when the user opens the container. In contrast, in standard known containers, at least a portion of the outer plastic film is removed and discarded when the container is opened.

[0035] Furthermore, a container formed according to the method of the present invention may also provide an improved and more simplified opening experience to the user. More specifically, since the user does not need to remove and discard any part of the container, less effort is required to open the container and access the consumer goods contained therein. This can provide a more comfortable experience to the user as compared to conventional containers having an outer wrapper of plastic film.

[0036] However, a significant amount of heat-sealable polymeric material is required to properly seal the outer wrapper made of a cellulosic-based outer wrapper. The folding patterns typically used to achieve such seals may also cause the surface of the container to have two or more overlapping layers of the outer wrapper. In particular, instead of one layer being completely covered by the other upper layer, the layers only partially overlap each other, which also affects the printable space of the outer wrapper. It is possible to print on the surface having a plurality of overlapping layers of the outer wrapper, but the visual quality of the print is usually adversely affected. In particular, printing on such overlapping layers often leads to interrupted or misaligned printing.

[0037] Therefore, the inventors understand that in such a situation, it is advantageous to provide a simpler folding pattern to mitigate the above-mentioned drawbacks.

[0038] The method disclosed herein may further include the step of folding the outer wrapper around the housing such that a first portion of the outer wrapper is over a second portion of the outer wrapper at a first end of the housing and covers the first end of the housing, and the first portion forms a rectangular fold.

[0039] This novel folding pattern advantageously simplifies the container by reducing the amount of heat-sealable polymeric material required to seal the outer wrapper, while minimizing the impact on any manufacturer's brand logo, trademark, slogan and other consumer information or other indicia printed, embossed or debossed on the walls of the container and the visual quality of the other markings.

[0040] Furthermore, since the outermost surface of the outer wrapper at the first end of the housing is formed by a rectangular fold, the printable space available at the first end of the housing for branding, consumer information or indicia is increased. Such rectangular folds also provide a simpler arrangement and increased space for embossing or debossing branding, consumer information and indicia within the outer wrapper.

[0041] The inventors of the present invention have also surprisingly found that the above-described configuration also provides an improved seal of the outer wrapper that better protects the consumer goods housed within the housing from the ingress of moisture or other external elements that can damage the consumer goods.

[0042] One or more edges of the first portion of the outer wrapper are preferably formed by one or more cuts in the outer wrapper. The step of providing the outer wrapper preferably includes making one or more cuts in the outer wrapper to form the first portion of the outer wrapper. The first portion of the outer wrapper is connected to the remainder of the outer wrapper by a first portion hinge line. Preferably, two cuts are provided in the outer wrapper to define a first edge and a second edge of the first portion. The two cuts in the outer wrapper are preferably parallel cuts. Thus, the blank used to form the outer wrapper by the method of the present invention may have the same dimensions as well-known blanks used to form the outer wrapper. Only the folding pattern may be modified by adding one or more cuts to form the first portion. Advantageously, this may mean that the container according to the present invention is easy to manufacture and does not require significant modification of existing packaging equipment. Existing blanks for the outer wrapper can also be used with minimal modification.

[0043] The second portion of the outer wrapper may form an envelope fold.

[0044] Alternatively, the second portion of the outer wrapper may form a rectangular fold. This arrangement can advantageously provide a consumer goods container having a first end in the same plane as compared to when the second portion is an envelope fold. In particular, a configuration where the rectangular fold is on top of the rectangular fold has fewer overlapping layers than when the rectangular fold is on top of the envelope fold. It is possible to print on a surface having a plurality of overlapping layers of the outer wrapper, but the visual quality of the printing is usually adversely affected. In particular, printing on such overlapping layers often leads to interrupted or misaligned printing. More specifically, the underlying edge or fold may create raised portions where printing is more difficult.

[0045] The first portion of the outer wrapper preferably has the same shape and size as the shape and size of the first end of the housing.

[0046] By providing an outer wrapper having a first portion with the same shape and size as the shape and size of the first end of the housing, a neater and simpler design is achieved. At the first end of the housing, the space available for decorating by printing, embossing, or debossing, or otherwise the manufacturer or brand, consumer information or logo, is maximized. The seal achieved at the first end of the housing can also be improved with this configuration. Further, the risk that the outer wrapper is inadvertently removed at the first end of the housing is significantly reduced in such a configuration. In particular, the first portion of the outer wrapper may be placed on the same plane as the first end of the housing, and the edges of the first portion of the outer wrapper respectively coincide with the corresponding edges of the first end of the housing. Thus, the possibility that the outer wrapper gets caught, torn, or is inadvertently removed from the housing is low.

[0047] The outer wrapper preferably includes a metallized layer.

[0048] By providing an outer wrapper having a metallized layer, or a metallized outer wrapper, the barrier characteristics of the outer wrapper can be improved. The metallized outer wrapper has significantly low permeability to gases or vapors such as oxygen or moisture, and thus can further protect the consumer goods contained in the container.

[0049] A container for consumer goods formed according to the method of the present invention includes a housing for consumer goods and an outer wrapper including a cellulosic layer. The housing may be formed from a sheet that is folded to define the structure of the housing. The housing can be understood as a three-dimensional structure that at least partially surrounds a space for holding one or more consumer goods.

[0050] The housing and the outer wrapper are heated such that the outer wrapper is sealed onto the housing. Heating the housing and the outer wrapper may include heating the housing and the outer wrapper while applying pressure to seal the outer wrapper onto the housing. The pressure applied to the outer wrapper preferably consists of 1 kilopascal to 100 kilopascals. After applying heat or pressure, or both, the outer wrapper may be permanently attached to the housing, and it is impossible to remove the outer wrapper without deforming or damaging the container.

[0051] The outer wrapper is preferably folded such that when the outer wrapper is wrapped around the housing, the outer wrapper completely covers the housing. The outer wrapper may be folded to conform to the shape of the housing. The way the outer wrapper is folded depends on the shape of the housing.

[0052] The outer wrapper is preferably folded around the housing such that a first edge region of the outer wrapper overlaps a second edge region of the outer wrapper facing it in the longitudinal direction along the housing. It is also envisioned that the outer wrapper may be wrapped around the housing such that a first edge region of the outer wrapper overlaps a second edge region of the outer wrapper facing it in the transverse direction along the housing.

[0053] The first portion of the outer wrapper preferably conforms to the fold of the first wall of the outer wrapper. The second portion of the outer wrapper preferably conforms to the fold of the second wall of the outer wrapper. The second wall of the outer wrapper is preferably on the opposite side of the first wall. The first wall of the outer wrapper is preferably the front wall. The second wall of the outer wrapper is preferably the rear wall.

[0054] The first portion of the wrapper may completely overlap the first end of the housing. When the first portion of the outer wrapper conforms to the fold of the first wall of the outer wrapper, the first portion of the outer wrapper preferably completely overlaps the first end of the housing.

[0055] At the first end of the housing, the outer wrapper may consist of a first portion of the outer wrapper and a second portion of the outer wrapper. The first portion of the outer wrapper and the second portion of the outer wrapper may each be dependent on their respective fold lines.

[0056] At the first end of the housing, when the outer wrapper consists of a first portion and a second portion, each being dependent on their respective fold lines, it is preferable that the first portion completely overlaps the second portion. In such an embodiment, it is preferable that the first portion of the outer wrapper completely overlaps the first end of the housing.

[0057] The outer surface of the container according to the present invention may be decorated by printing, embossing, debossing, or other methods with the manufacturer's or brand's logo, trademark, slogan, and other consumer information or other markings.

[0058] The container may be configured to contain consumer goods such as aerosol generating articles, one or more aerosol generating devices, accessories, and utilities. The consumer goods may be contained within a single compartment or separate compartments within the container.

[0059] The container may be a hinged lid box having a box portion and a lid portion connected to the box portion along a hinge line extending across the rear wall of the container, the hinged lid box being formed by the housing and the outer wrapper. The container may have an opening line provided across one or more walls of the container to separate the lid portion from the box portion. The lid portion may be movable from a first closed position where the opening of the housing is covered to a second open position where the opening of the housing is not covered. The opening may be defined by the opening line.

[0060] The box portion may include a front wall of the box portion, a rear wall of the box portion, first and second opposing side walls of the box portion, and a bottom wall of the box portion. The box portion may have an opening at the upper end thereof. The opening of the box portion may be defined by the upper edges of the front wall of the box portion, the rear wall of the box portion, and the first and second opposing side walls of the box portion. The box portion defines an internal space that forms part of the compartment of the container.

[0061] The lid portion may include a front wall of the lid portion, a rear wall of the lid portion, first and second opposing side walls of the lid portion, and an upper wall of the lid portion. The lid portion may have an opening at the lower end thereof. The opening of the lid portion may be defined by the lower edges of the front wall of the lid portion, the rear wall of the lid portion, and the first and second side walls of the lid portion. The lid portion may define an internal space that forms part of the compartment of the container.

[0062] The unsealing line may be defined by a weakened line in one or both of the housing and the outer wrapper. The weakened line may be a tear tape or an etched line. When the weakened line is an etched line, the etched line may have a depth of 80% or less of the thickness of one or both of the housing and the outer wrapper. The container according to the present invention can thus also be a measure against unauthorized opening, since it is necessary to break the outer wrapper in order to open the lid portion.

[0063] The container according to the present invention has a specific use as a container for an elongated aerosol-generating article (for example, a cigarette, a cigar, a cigarillo or other aerosol generator) that depends on heating by, for example, an electric heat source or a carbon heat source, rather than burning tobacco. Of course, by appropriately selecting its dimensions, the container according to the present invention may be designed for aerosol-generating articles of different conventional sizes, king size, super king size, slim or super slim. Alternatively, other consumer goods may be accommodated in the container.

[0064] For example, by appropriate selection of dimensions, the container according to the present invention may be designed to hold a total of ten to thirty aerosol-generating articles. The aerosol-generating articles may be arranged in different ways depending on the total number of aerosol-generating articles.

[0065] The container according to the present invention may have a cuboid shape with right-angled corners in the longitudinal direction and right-angled corners in the transverse direction. Alternatively, the container may have a cuboid shape with one or more rounded edges in the longitudinal direction, rounded edges in the transverse direction, chamfered edges in the longitudinal direction, or chamfered edges in the transverse direction, or a combination thereof.

[0066] Typically, the external dimensions of the container are about 0.5 mm to about 5 mm larger than the dimensions of the bundle(s) of aerosol-generating articles accommodated inside the container.

[0067] The height of the container according to the present invention is preferably about 60 mm to about 150 mm, more preferably about 70 mm to about 125 mm, and the height is measured from the bottom wall to the top wall of the container. The width of the container according to the present invention is preferably about 12 mm to about 150 mm, more preferably about 70 mm to about 125 mm, and the width is measured from one side wall to the other side wall of the container.

[0068] The depth of the container according to the present invention is preferably about 6 mm to about 150 mm, more preferably about 12 mm to about 25 mm, and the depth is measured from the front wall to the rear wall of the container (including the hinge between the box and the lid).

[0069] The ratio of the height of the container to the depth of the container is preferably about 0.3 to 1 to about 10 to 1, more preferably about 2 to 1 to about 8 to 1, and most preferably about 3 to 1 to 5 to 1.

[0070] The ratio of the depth of the container to the width of the container is preferably from about 0.3 to 1 to about 10 to 1, more preferably from about 2 to 1 to about 8 to 1, and most preferably from about 2 to 1 to 3 to 1.

[0071] When the container contains an aerosol-generating article, the container may further comprise a waste compartment for, for example, ash and cigarette butts, or other consumer goods (such as matches, lighters, fire extinguishing means, bad breath deodorants or electronic components, etc.). The other consumer goods may be attached to the outside of the container, may be housed in another compartment of the container together with the aerosol-generating article inside the container, or may be a combination thereof.

[0072] The housing may be formed from any suitable material, including but not limited to cellulosic materials, plastics, metals, or combinations thereof. The housing is preferably formed from a cellulosic material. The housing is preferably formed from a sheet material. The sheet may be a sheet of cellulosic material. More specifically, the sheet may be a paper sheet or a cardboard sheet, i.e., a sheet made of cardboard paper.

[0073] Preferably, the housing includes a housing front wall, a housing rear wall, two housing side walls, a housing bottom wall, and a housing top wall. The housing defines an inner surface and an outer surface.

[0074] The housing may be formed of sheets of two or more materials.

[0075] The sheet is preferably folded so as to define a completely closed compartment when the housing is closed. The inner compartment defined by the housing is preferably completely separated from the outside. The consumer goods are preferably stored in a compartment of the container.

[0076] The sheet forming the housing for consumer goods preferably forms a blank. The blank preferably has a standard shape in the industry and, for example, preferably defines a rectangular sheet of material.

[0077] The sheet preferably has a basis weight of 170 g / m² to 270 g / m². However, of course, sheets of higher or lower basis weight can be used to form the container according to the present invention.

[0078] The sheet preferably has a thickness of 170 micrometers to 400 micrometers. However, of course, sheets of higher or lower thickness can be used to form the container according to the present invention.

[0079] The outer wrapper has a first part and a second part. When the outer wrapper is folded around the housing, the first part of the outer wrapper forms a rectangular fold at the first end of the housing. When the outer wrapper is folded around the housing, the first part lies on top of the second part at the first end of the housing and covers the first end of the housing.

[0080] One or more cuts may be provided in the outer wrapper to define one or more edges of the first part. The steps of the method of providing the outer wrapper may include making one or more cuts in the outer wrapper to form the first part. Alternatively, a first part precut may be provided for the first part.

[0081] Two cuts may be provided in the outer wrapper to define a first edge and a second edge of the first part. The two cuts in the outer wrapper may be parallel cuts. Alternatively, the two cuts in the outer wrapper may be non-parallel cuts.

[0082] The first portion may be connected to the remainder of the outer wrapper by a first partial hinge line. When the outer wrapper is wrapped around the housing, the first partial hinge line may be on the edge of the housing that connects the front wall to any one of the upper wall, the bottom wall, and the opposing first or second side wall. Alternatively, when the outer wrapper is wrapped around the housing, the first partial hinge line may be on the edge of the housing that connects the rear wall to any one of the upper wall, the bottom wall, and the opposing first or second side wall. The first partial hinge line may extend over the entire length of the edge of the housing that it overlaps. In other embodiments, the first partial hinge line may extend only over a portion of the edge of the housing that it covers.

[0083] The second portion of the outer wrapper may form a flap fold.

[0084] Alternatively, the second portion of the outer wrapper may form a rectangular fold.

[0085] The first portion of the outer wrapper preferably may have the same shape and size as the shape and size of the first end of the housing. The first portion of the outer wrapper may completely cover the first end of the housing. The first portion of the outer wrapper may be placed in the same plane as the first end of the housing, and the edges of the first portion of the outer wrapper respectively coincide with the corresponding edges of the first end of the housing. The first portion may also have a shape and size different from the shape and size of the first end of the housing. In such a configuration, the first portion may only partially cover the first end of the housing.

[0086] When the second part of the outer wrapper forms a rectangular fold, it is preferable that the second part of the outer wrapper may have the same shape and size as the shape and size of the first end of the housing. The second part of the outer wrapper may completely cover the first end of the housing. The second part of the outer wrapper may be placed on the same plane as the first end of the housing, and the edges of the second part of the outer wrapper respectively coincide with the corresponding edges of the first end of the housing. The second part may also have a shape and size different from the shape and size of the first end of the housing. In such a configuration, the second part may only partially cover the first end of the housing.

[0087] The outer wrapper preferably has a third part and a fourth part. When the outer wrapper is folded around the housing, the third part of the outer wrapper forms a rectangular fold at the second end of the housing. When the outer wrapper is folded around the housing, the third part is on top of the fourth part at the second end of the housing and covers the second end.

[0088] One or more cuts may be provided in the outer wrapper to define one or more edges of the third part. The steps of the method of providing the outer wrapper may include making one or more cuts in the outer wrapper to form the third part. Alternatively, a first part pre-cut may be provided in the third part.

[0089] Two cuts may be provided in the outer wrapper to define the first edge and the second edge of the third part. The two cuts in the outer wrapper may be parallel cuts. Alternatively, the two cuts in the outer wrapper may be non-parallel cuts.

[0090] The third portion may be connected to the remaining portion of the outer wrapper by a third partial hinge line. When the outer wrapper is wrapped around the housing, the third partial hinge line may be on the edge of the housing that connects the front wall to any one of the upper wall, the bottom wall, and the opposing first or second side wall. Alternatively, when the outer wrapper is wrapped around the housing, the third partial hinge line may be on the edge of the housing that connects the rear wall to any one of the upper wall, the bottom wall, and the opposing first or second side wall. The third partial hinge line may extend over the entire length of the edge of the housing that it overlaps. In other embodiments, the third partial hinge line may extend over only a portion of the edge of the housing that it overlaps.

[0091] The fourth portion of the outer wrapper may form a flap fold.

[0092] Alternatively, the fourth portion of the outer wrapper may form a rectangular crease.

[0093] The third portion of the outer wrapper preferably may have the same shape and size as the shape and size of the second end of the housing. The third portion of the outer wrapper may completely cover the second end of the housing. The third portion of the outer wrapper may be placed in the same plane as the second end of the housing, and the edges of the third portion of the outer wrapper respectively coincide with the corresponding edges of the second end of the housing. The third portion may also have a shape and size different from the shape and size of the second end of the housing. In such a configuration, the third portion may cover only partially the second end of the housing.

[0094] When the fourth part of the outer wrapper forms a rectangular fold, it is preferred that the fourth part of the outer wrapper may have the same shape and size as the shape and size of the second end of the housing. The fourth part of the outer wrapper may completely cover the second end of the housing. The fourth part of the outer wrapper may be placed on the same plane as the second end of the housing, and the edges of the fourth part of the outer wrapper respectively coincide with the corresponding edges of the second end of the housing. The fourth part may also have a shape and size different from the shape and size of the second end of the housing. In such a configuration, the fourth part may only partially cover the second end of the housing.

[0095] The step of heating the housing and the outer wrapper preferably includes heating the outer wrapper to form a seal at the first end of the container.

[0096] The heat-sealable polymer layer is provided at least on the inner surface of the first part of the outer wrapper. It is more preferred that the heat-sealable polymer layer is optimized for bonding with the cellulosic layer. The properties of the heat-sealable polymer layer may be optimized to bond with a sheet of cellulosic material.

[0097] The step of heating the housing and the outer wrapper preferably includes heating the outer wrapper to form a seal at the second end of the container.

[0098] The heat-sealable polymer layer may be on at least 50 percent of the inner surface of the first part. Preferably, the heat-sealable polymer layer is on at least 80 percent of the inner surface of the first part. More preferably, the heat-sealable polymer layer is on the entire inner surface of the first part.

[0099] The heat-sealable polymer layer is preferably on the inner surface of the third part. It will be understood that the heat-sealable polymer layer may be provided on the inner surface of other parts of the outer wrapper.

[0100] The heat-sealable polymer layer may be on at least 50 percent of the inner surface of the outer wrapper, preferably the heat-sealable polymer layer is on at least 80 percent of the inner surface of the outer wrapper, and more preferably the heat-sealable polymer layer is on the entire inner surface of the outer wrapper.

[0101] The outer wrapper may include an additional layer, for example an additional barrier layer may be added for the purpose of enhancing the barrier performance of the resulting container. For example, a pre-coated cellulosic layer may be used as a substrate for the production of the outer wrapper of the present invention. The pre-coated cellulosic layer may include, for example, one or more layers of polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH), ethylene-vinyl alcohol copolymer (EVOH), polyvinylidene chloride coating (PVDC), and styrene-butadiene or styrene-acrylate based latex. These pre-applied coatings (often applied to paper mills) help to achieve a cellulosic layer with excellent surface planarity and thus may further enhance the performance of the coatings described in the present invention. Additionally, pre-applied coatings such as PVOH, EVOH, and PVDC may add additional functionality such as barriers to odors, aromas, and oxygen to the resulting container of the present invention. The coatings pre-applied in this way often contain mineral fillers such as calcium carbonate, kaolin, talc, mica, or other platelet-type minerals.

[0102] The heat-sealable polymer layer may be a first heat-sealable polymer layer. The method of forming a container according to the present invention may include providing a second polymer layer on the outer wrapper. The second polymer layer may be provided between the cellulosic layer and the first heat-sealable polymer layer. Alternatively, the second polymer layer may be provided on the outer surface of the cellulosic layer. The second polymer layer may be a moisture barrier. The moisture barrier can provide a better barrier between the outside and the inside of the container, and thus can provide additional protection to the consumer goods contained in the container. The second polymer layer may include fillers such as calcium carbonate, kaolin, talcum, mica, or other platelet-type minerals. Preferably, the second polymer layer is not heat-sealable and may be crosslinked or contain a crosslinking agent.

[0103] The second polymer layer may be on at least 50 percent of the inner surface of the outer wrapper, preferably on at least 80 percent of the inner surface of the outer wrapper, and more preferably extends over the entire inner surface of the outer wrapper. The greater the coverage of the second polymer layer, the greater the seal achieved between the inside of the container and the outside of the outer wrapper, so it is desirable to have a large coverage area of the second polymer layer.

[0104] One or both of the first or second polymer layers preferably include a composition containing one or more of polymers or copolymers of ethylene, polymers or copolymers of propylene, copolymers of styrene acrylate, copolymers of styrene butadiene, copolymers of styrene isoprene, hydrogenated copolymers of styrene butadiene, hydrogenated copolymers of styrene isoprene, copolymers of esters of acrylic acid or methacrylic acid, copolymers of vinyl acetate.

[0105] Preferably, the composition comprises a polymer, copolymer, or oligomer of ethylene and one of propylene, 1-butene, isobutylene, 1-octene, 1-hexene, norbornene, vinyl acetate, an acrylic or methacrylic acid ester, acrylic or methacrylic acid, dicyclopentadiene.

[0106] Preferably, the composition comprises a polymer, copolymer, or oligomer of propylene and one of ethylene, 1-butene, isobutylene, 1-octene, 1-hexene, norbornene, vinyl acetate, an acrylic or methacrylic acid ester, acrylic or methacrylic acid, dicyclopentadiene.

[0107] Preferably, the composition further comprises a wax. The wax may include one or more of paraffin wax, polyethylene wax, microcrystalline wax, polypropylene wax. The composition may have any content of wax. Preferably, the wax content may consist of 10% to 40% by weight of the composition.

[0108] Preferably, the composition further comprises a hydrocarbon resin. The hydrocarbon resin may include one or more of a hydrogenated hydrocarbon resin, a polyterpene resin. The composition may have any content of hydrocarbon resin. Preferably, the hydrocarbon resin content may consist of 30% to 50% by weight of the composition.

[0109] Preferably, the content of the polymer or copolymer consists of 30% to 50% by weight of the composition.

[0110] Preferably, the first heat-sealable polymer layer has a basis weight of 4 grams per square meter to 10 grams per square meter.

[0111] Preferably, the second polymer layer has a basis weight of 5 grams per square meter to 10 grams per square meter.

[0112] The first heat-sealable polymer layer preferably has a melting point of less than 120 degrees Celsius as measured according to differential scanning calorimetry (DSC).

[0113] The second polymer layer preferably does not exhibit thermoplastic behavior at the temperature and pressure used to melt the first heat-sealable polymer layer. Thereby, it can be ensured that the second polymer layer is not affected by the heating of the first heat-sealable polymer layer. Thus, when the first heat-sealable polymer layer is heated to seal the outer wrapper onto the housing, the second polymer layer remains intact.

[0114] The second polymer layer preferably has a melting point as measured according to differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) that is higher than the melting temperature of the first heat-sealable polymer layer.

[0115] The outer wrapper preferably includes a metallized layer. For example, a pre-coated cellulosic layer may be metallized paper. For the purposes of the present invention, the cellulosic layer may be metallized before applying one or more polymer layers. The metallized layer may be a barrier layer intended to enhance the barrier performance of the resulting container. By providing an outer wrapper having a metallized layer, or a metallized outer wrapper, the barrier characteristics of the outer wrapper can be improved. The metallized outer wrapper has extremely low permeability to gases or vapors such as oxygen or moisture, and thus can further protect the consumer goods contained within the container. Metallization can also be used later for decorative purposes.

[0116] The step of providing the outer wrapper preferably includes applying a metallized layer to the cellulosic layer.

[0117] The metallized layer may be on the inner surface of the cellulosic layer. Alternatively, the metallized layer may be on the outer surface of the cellulosic layer. When the metallized layer is on the outer surface of the cellulosic layer, the metallized layer can impart an attractive appearance to the outer wrapper.

[0118] The metallization layer is preferably an aluminum layer. However, the metallization layer may be a layer containing any suitable metal.

[0119] The metallization layer is preferably between the cellulosic layer and the heat-sealable polymer layer.

[0120] The heat-sealable polymer layer may be on at least 50 percent of the inner surface of the metallization layer, preferably on at least 80 percent of the inner surface of the metallization layer, and more preferably on the entire inner surface of the metallization layer.

[0121] The metallization layer may have a thickness of at least 10 nanometers, and preferably has a thickness of at least 15 nanometers.

[0122] A primer layer may be between the cellulosic layer and the metallization layer. The primer layer may smooth the surface of the cellulosic layer and provide an anchoring layer suitable for the deposition of the metallization layer.

[0123] A protective layer may cover the metallization layer. The protective layer can protect the metallization layer from damage that may occur during handling and formation of the container. The protective layer can be produced by applying a solution or dispersion of a suitable polyester resin such as a polycondensate of terephthalic acid, isophthalic acid, adipic acid, azelaic acid, and one or more diols such as ethylene glycol, 1,3-propanediol, 1,4-propanediol, diethylene glycol, neopentyl glycol, 2-methyl-1,3-propanediol. The protective layer can also be produced from a mixture of at least two dibasic acids or their methyl ester monomers and at least one or more glycols capable of obtaining a polymer excellent in solubility and adhesiveness to the metal layer. Other suitable compositions suitable for the production of the top coating include solutions of polymers such as cellulose acetate or cellulose propionate, dispersions of various olefin copolymers such as ethylene and acrylic acid or methacrylic acid, and solutions or dispersions of hydrogenated hydrocarbon resins.

[0124] The cellulose-based layer preferably has a basis weight of 40 grams per square meter to 70 grams per square meter.

[0125] The lid portion is preferably connected to the box portion by a hinge line. The hinge line can enable the lid to move between a closed position and an open position. In the closed position, the lid portion can cover the opening of the box portion. In the open position, the opening of the box portion may not be covered by the lid portion.

[0126] The hinge line may be formed on the rear wall of the housing and the rear wall of the outer wrapper above.

[0127] The hinge line may extend across only a part of the rear wall of the box portion. Alternatively, the hinge line may extend across the entire length of the rear wall of the box portion.

[0128] Features described with respect to one embodiment or one implementation form may also be applicable to other embodiments and implementation forms.

[0129] Here, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0130]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Figure 11

Figure 12

Figure 13

Figure 14

Figure 15

Figure 16

Figure 17

Figure 18

Figure 19

Figure 20

Figure 21

[0131] FIG. 1 shows a housing 10 used in a container formed by the method of the present invention. The housing 10 has a rectangular parallelepiped shape and includes a box portion 14 and a lid portion 16. The rectangular parallelepiped defines a rear wall 21, a front wall 22, a left side wall 23, a right side wall 24, a bottom wall 25, and an upper wall 26.

[0132] The housing further includes a first right edge 27 and a second right edge 28 of the housing 10. The first right edge 27 is formed between the rear wall 21 and the right side wall 24, and the second right edge 28 is formed between the front wall 22 and the right side wall 24. The housing 10 also includes a first left edge 29 formed between the rear wall 21 and the left side wall 23 and a second left edge 51 formed between the front wall 22 and the left side wall 23 (in FIG. 14, the edge 29 is visible).

[0133] The lid portion 16 is hinged around a hinge line 17 that extends across the rear wall of the housing. Further, the housing 10 defines a housing for accommodating a group of aerosol generating articles (not shown in the drawings) or an internal volume (not shown in the figure). When the housing 10 is closed, the lid portion 16 and the box portion 14 define an opening line 19, which is a separation line between the lid portion and the box portion. The opening line 19 is geometrically continuous with the hinge line 17. The opening line 19 is formed on the left side wall 23, the right side wall 24, and the front wall 22.

[0134] The opening line 19 is a weakened line such as a score line, by which the housing 10 can be immediately opened or etched, and thus the housing 10 cannot be opened unless the opening line is broken 19.

[0135] The housing 10 is formed from the sheet 100 shown in FIGS. 2 and 3. As shown in the side view of FIG. 3, the sheet 100 includes a cellulosic material 30. More preferably, the sheet includes a sheet of the cellulosic material 30. More specifically, the sheet of the cellulosic material 30 is formed from a sheet of a paper-based material. The sheet of the cellulosic material 30 preferably has a basis weight of 170 gsm to 270 gsm. The cellulosic material preferably has a thickness of 170 micrometers to 400 micrometers.

[0136] The sheet 100 is folded as is well known in the art to form the housing 10. Any geometric shape of the housing is possible.

[0137] The housing 10 formed by appropriately folding the sheet 100 is then packaged using an outer wrapper, for example, to form a container 1 (shown in FIG. 17) that houses a consumer product (not shown) for containing an aerosol-generating article.

[0138] The outer wrapper is formed from the blank 101 shown in FIGS. 4 to 9. In the first embodiment shown in FIG. 5, the blank 101 includes a cellulosic layer 40 containing a cellulosic material and a heat-sealable polymer layer 41 having heat-sealing properties. The cellulosic layer 40 has an inner surface 44 and an outer surface 45. The heat-sealable polymer layer 41 covers the inner surface 44 of the cellulosic layer 40 as shown in FIG. 4.

[0139] In the second embodiment shown in FIG. 6, the blank 101' includes a cellulose-based layer 40 containing a cellulose-based material and a heat-sealing polymer layer 41 having heat-sealing properties. The cellulose-based layer 40 has an inner surface 44 and an outer surface 45. The heat-sealing polymer layer 41 only partially covers the inner surface 44 of the cellulose-based layer 40.

[0140] More specifically, the cellulose-based layer 40 is formed from a sheet of paper-based material. The heat-sealing polymer layer 41 preferably has a basis weight of 4 gsm to 15 gsm.

[0141] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 6, the blank 101' forming the outer wrapper includes a second polymer layer 42. The second polymer layer 42 is a moisture barrier layer. The second polymer layer 42 is located between the inner surface 44 of the cellulose-based layer 40 and the heat-sealing polymer layer 41. The second polymer layer 42 preferably has a basis weight of 5 grams per square meter to 10 grams per square meter.

[0142] In the third embodiment shown in FIG. 7, the outer wrapper 701 includes a cellulose-based layer 40 containing a cellulose-based material, a metallization layer 49, and a heat-sealing polymer layer 41 having heat-sealing properties. The cellulose-based layer 40 has an inner surface 44 and an outer surface 45. The metallization layer 49 is provided on the inner surface 44 of the cellulose-based layer 40. The heat-sealing polymer layer 41 completely covers the metallization layer 49. The metallization layer may have a thickness of at least 10 nanometers, and preferably has a thickness of at least 15 nanometers. A primer layer (not shown) may be between the cellulose-based layer 40 and the metallization layer 49. The primer layer may smooth the surface of the cellulose-based layer 40 and provide an anchoring layer suitable for vapor deposition of the metallization layer 49. A protective layer (not shown) may cover the metallization layer 49. The protective layer may protect the metallization layer 49 from damage that may occur during handling and formation of the container 1.

[0143] In the fourth embodiment shown in FIG. 8, the outer wrapper 801 includes a cellulose-based layer 40 containing a cellulose-based material, a metallized layer 49, a heat-sealing polymer layer 41 having heat-sealing properties, and a second polymer layer 42.

[0144] The cellulose-based layer 40 has an inner surface 44 and an outer surface 45. The metallized layer 49 is provided on the inner surface 44 of the cellulose-based layer 40. The heat-sealing polymer layer 41 completely covers the metallized layer 49. The metallized layer may have a thickness of at least 10 nanometers, and preferably has a thickness of at least 15 nanometers. A primer layer (not shown) may be between the cellulose-based layer 40 and the metallized layer 49. The primer layer may smooth the surface of the cellulose-based layer 40 and provide an anchoring layer suitable for vapor deposition of the metallized layer 49. A protective layer (not shown) may cover the metallized layer 49. The protective layer may protect the metallized layer 49 from damage that may occur during handling and formation of the container 1. The second polymer layer 42 is located between the metallized layer 49 and the heat-sealing polymer layer 41. The second polymer layer 42 preferably has a basis weight of 5 grams per square meter to 10 grams per square meter.

[0145] FIG. 9 is a more detailed front view of the outer wrappers 101, 101', 701, 801 of FIGS. 4-8. The first portion 71 and the third portion 73 that form the rectangular fold of the outer wrapper are shown together with the second portion 72 and the fourth portion 74 that form the envelope fold of the outer wrapper. Also shown is a score line 47 within the outer wrapper that defines the edges of the first portion 71 and the third portion 73. As shown on the outer wrapper 101 or 101', a weakened line 19' is formed. The weakened line 19' is formed on the outer wrappers 101, 101' in such a way that when the outer wrappers 101, 101' are wrapped around the housing 10, as seen in FIGS. 15-17, the weakened line 19' coincides with the opening line 19.

[0146] To form the container 1, as shown in FIGS. 10-19, the housing 10 is wrapped around with an outer wrapper formed by the outer wrapper 101.

[0147] The weakened line 19' may be manufactured using a laser scoring process or partial mechanical cutting of the cellulose-based layer 40 over its thickness without damaging the heat-sealing layer and the moisture barrier layer.

[0148] The weakened line 19' is formed on the cellulose-based layer 40. Scoring is performed on the outer surface 45 of the cellulose-based layer 40 that becomes the outer surface of the container 1. The depth of the scoring is controlled so as not to affect the moisture barrier properties of the second polymer layer 42 or the heat-sealing property of the first polymer-based layer 41.

[0149] Considering the scoring tolerances of both the laser process and the mechanical process, as well as having good functionality and ease of opening, the depth of the scoring is preferably 50 percent to 80 percent of the thickness of the cellulose-based layer 40. For laser scoring, a 1000-watt CO2 laser may be used. The beam control of the laser may be performed via a scanner. The process may be in an open reel type with a speed of 200 meters per minute.

[0150] In the case of mechanical scoring, a rotary cutting unit may be used. The operation is carried out by inserting a second cellulose-based layer between the knife of the cutting unit and the blind counter roller. The distance between the knife and the counter roller may be 15 micrometers to 30 micrometers depending on the substrate.

[0151] In FIGS. 10 to 19, only the outer wrapper 101 is shown, but the same process is applied to the outer wrappers 101', 801, and 901.

[0152] As shown in FIG. 10, the outer wrapper 101 is placed in contact with the right side wall 24 of the housing 10. The outer wrapper 101 is positioned such that the heat-sealable polymer layer 41 contacts the housing 10 at the right side wall 24. Accordingly, the heat-sealable polymer layer 41 is the inner layer of the outer wrapper 101.

[0153] An enlarged view of FIG. 18 (corresponding to the circular shape of FIG. 10) shows how the outer wrapper 101 is applied to the housing 10 and brought into contact with the housing 10. Two folds 102, 103 are formed in the outer wrapper 101 corresponding to the positions of the first right edge 27 and the second right edge 28 of the housing 10. This is shown in FIG. 11. Next, the outer wrapper 101 is compressed against the side wall 24 as illustrated by the arrow in FIG. 19 (corresponding to the rounded portion in FIG. 11).

[0154] FIG. 12 shows the outer wrapper 101 folded at two folds 102, 103 such that the front wall 22 and the rear wall 21 of the housing 10 also contact the outer wrapper 101.

[0155] Next, the housing 10 is preferably reoriented to facilitate packaging. For example, the left side wall 23 may face upward as shown in FIG. 13.

[0156] Next, two additional folds, folds 104, 105, are formed in the outer wrapper 101 corresponding to the positions of the first left edge 29 and the first left edge 51. Next, the outer wrapper 101 is folded at the two folds 104, 105 such that two opposing flaps of the sheet blank overlap on the left side wall 23. This is shown in FIG. 14. The panels of the outer wrapper 101 are formed on the left side wall 23, the right side wall 24, the front wall 22, and the rear wall 21 of the housing 10. In this way, the entire opening line 19 and the hinge line 17 are covered by the outer wrapper 101.

[0157] The housing 10 and the outer wrapper 101 are preferably reoriented such that the front wall 22 faces upward as shown in FIG. 15.

[0158] Figures 16 and 17 show an outer wrapper 101 that is folded to cover ends 25 and 26 of the housing. The outer wrapper 101 is folded in a well-known method called "envelope fold" to form a second portion 72 and a fourth portion 74 that are envelope folds. Then, the second portion 72 and the fourth portion 74 are folded to abut and partially cover ends 25 and 26 of the housing 10, respectively. Next, the outer wrapper 101 is folded to form a first portion 71 and a third portion 73 that are rectangular folds. Next, the first portion and the third portion are folded to abut ends 25 and 26 of the housing, respectively. The first portion 71 and the third portion 73 are respectively on top of the second portion 72 and the fourth portion 74 and completely cover ends 25 and 26 of the housing 10.

[0159] In Figure 17, the entire housing 10 is covered by the outer wrapper 101, forming panels on each wall of the housing 10. The dashed line 19' coincides with the opening line 19 thereon.

[0160] Figures 20 and 21 show an outer wrapper 101 that is folded to cover ends 25 and 26 of the housing in an alternative configuration to that of Figures 16 and 17. The outer wrapper 101 is folded to form a second portion 72 and a fourth portion 74 that are rectangular folds. The second portion and the fourth portion 74 are folded to abut and cover ends 25 and 26 of the housing 10, respectively. Next, the outer wrapper is folded to form a first portion 71 and a third portion 73 that are also rectangular folds. Next, the first portion and the third portion are folded to abut ends 25 and 26 of the housing 10, respectively. The first portion 71 and the third portion 73 are respectively on top of the second portion 72 and the fourth portion 74 and completely cover ends 25 and 26 of the housing 10.

[0161] In Figure 21, the entire housing 10 is covered by an outer wrapper 101, and panels are formed on each wall of the housing 10. The dashed line 19’ coincides with the unsealing line 19 thereon. Heat and pressure are applied to fix and bond the outer wrapper 101 to the housing 10. For example, a temperature of 110 degrees Celsius and a pressure of 1 Newton per square centimeter (N / cm 2 ) are applied for 100 milliseconds. These conditions provide a satisfactory seal and high adhesiveness.

[0162] The following is 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 of the features of any other example, embodiment, or aspect described herein.

[0163] Example 1. A method of forming a consumer goods container, comprising: providing a housing for consumer goods; providing an outer wrapper, wherein the outer wrapper includes a cellulosic layer and a heat-sealable polymer layer is provided on at least the inner surface of a first portion of the outer wrapper; folding the outer wrapper around the housing such that a first portion of the outer wrapper overlaps a second portion of the outer wrapper formed at a first end of the housing and forms a rectangular fold to form the first end of the housing; and heating the housing and the outer wrapper to seal the outer wrapper onto the housing. Example 2. The method according to Example 1, wherein heating the housing and the outer wrapper includes heating the outer wrapper onto the housing while applying pressure to seal the outer wrapper onto the housing. Example 3. The method according to Example 1 or 2, wherein one or more cuts are provided in the outer wrapper to define one or more edges of the first portion. Example 4. The method according to Example 3, wherein the step of providing the outer wrapper includes creating one or more cuts in the outer wrapper to form a first portion. Example 5. The method according to Example 3 or 4, wherein the first portion is connected to the remaining portion of the outer wrapper by a first portion hinge line. Example 6. The method according to any one of Examples 3 to 5, wherein the outer wrapper is provided with two cuts that define a first edge and a second edge of the first portion. Example 7. The method according to Example 6, wherein the two cuts in the outer wrapper are parallel cuts. Example 8. The method according to any one of Examples 1 to 7, wherein the second portion of the outer wrapper forms a flap fold. Example 9. The method according to any one of Examples 1 to 7, wherein the second portion of the outer wrapper forms a rectangular fold. Example 10. The method according to any one of Examples 1 to 9, wherein the housing is formed from a sheet of cellulosic material. Example 11. The method according to any one of Examples 1 to 10, wherein the first portion of the outer wrapper has the same shape and size as the shape and size of the first end of the housing. Example 12. The method according to any one of Examples 1 to 11, wherein the heat-sealable polymer layer is on at least 50 percent of the inner surface of the first portion, preferably the heat-sealable polymer layer is on at least 80 percent of the inner surface of the first portion, and more preferably the heat-sealable polymer layer is on the entire inner surface of the first portion. Example 13. The method according to any one of Examples 1 to 12, wherein the outer wrapper includes a metallized layer. Example 14. The method according to Example 13, wherein the step of providing the outer wrapper includes applying a cellulosic layer to the metallized layer. Example 15. The method according to Example 14, wherein the metallization layer is on the inner surface of the cellulose-based layer. Example 16. The method according to Example 14, wherein the metallization layer is on the outer surface of the cellulose-based layer. Example 17. The method according to any one of Example 13 or Example 16, wherein the metallization layer is an aluminum layer. Example 18. The method according to Example 15, wherein the metallization layer is between the cellulose-based layer and the heat-sealable polymer layer. Example 19. The method according to any one of Examples 13 to 18, wherein the metallization layer has a thickness of at least 10 nanometers, and preferably the metallization layer has a thickness of at least 15 nanometers. Example 20. The method according to any one of Examples 15 to 19, wherein the primer layer is between the cellulose-based layer and the metallization layer. Example 21. The method according to any one of Examples 13 to 20, wherein the protective layer covers the metallization layer. Example 22. The method according to any one of Examples 1 to 21, wherein the step of folding the outer wrapper around the housing includes winding the outer wrapper around the housing such that the outer wrapper completely covers the housing. Example 23. The method according to any one of Examples 1 to 22, wherein the step of folding the outer wrapper around the housing includes winding the outer wrapper around the housing such that a first edge region of the outer wrapper overlaps a second opposing edge region of the outer wrapper along the long axis direction along the housing. Example 24. The step of folding the outer wrapper around the housing includes winding the outer wrapper around the housing such that a third portion of the outer wrapper is on top of a fourth portion at a second end of the housing and covers the second end of the housing, The method according to any one of Examples 1 to 23, wherein the third portion of the outer wrapper forms a rectangular fold. Example 25. The method according to Example 24, wherein the fourth part of the outer wrapper forms an envelope fold. Example 26. The method according to Example 24, wherein the fourth part of the outer wrapper forms a rectangular fold. Example 27. The method according to any one of Examples 24 to 26, wherein the heat-sealable polymer layer is on the inner surface of the third part. Example 28. The method according to any one of Examples 1 to 27, wherein the heat-sealable polymer layer is on at least 50 percent of the inner surface of the outer wrapper, preferably on at least 80 percent of the inner surface of the outer wrapper, and more preferably on the entire inner surface of the outer wrapper. Example 29. The method according to any one of Examples 1 to 28, wherein the step of heating the housing and the outer wrapper includes heating the outer wrapper to form a seal at the first end of the container. Example 30. The method according to any one of Examples 24 to 29, wherein the step of heating the housing and the outer wrapper includes heating the outer wrapper to form a seal at the second end of the container. Example 31. The method according to any one of Examples 1 to 30, wherein the housing has a substantially parallelepiped shape. Example 32. The method according to any one of Examples 1 to 31, wherein the container is a hinged lid box comprising a box portion and a lid portion connected to the box portion along a hinge line extending across the rear wall of the container, and the hinged lid box is formed by the housing and the outer wrapper. Example 33. The method according to Example 32, wherein the lid portion is movable from a first closed position covering the opening of the housing to a second open position not covering the opening of the housing. Example 34. The method according to embodiment 32 or embodiment 33, wherein a tear line is provided extending across one or more walls of the container to separate the lid portion and the box portion. Embodiment 35. The method according to embodiment 34, wherein the tear line is defined by a weakened line in one or both of the housing and the outer wrapper. Embodiment 36. The method according to embodiment 35, wherein the weakened line in one or both of the housing and the outer wrapper is a tear tape or an etched line. Embodiment 37. The method according to embodiment 36, wherein the weakened line in one or both of the housing and the outer wrapper includes an etched line having a depth of 80% or less of the thickness of one or both of the housing and the outer wrapper. Embodiment 38. The heat-sealable polymer layer is a first heat-sealable polymer layer, The method according to any one of embodiments 1 to 37, including the step of providing a second polymer layer on the outer wrapper. Embodiment 39. The method according to embodiment 38, including the step of providing a second polymer layer between the cellulosic layer and the first heat-sealable polymer layer. Embodiment 40. The method according to embodiment 38 or embodiment 39, wherein the second polymer layer is a moisture barrier layer. Embodiment 41. The method according to any one of embodiments 38 to 40, wherein the second polymer layer extends across the entire inner surface of the outer wrapper. Embodiment 42. The method according to any one of Examples 38 to 40, wherein one or both of the first or second polymer layer contains a composition containing one or more of a polymer or copolymer of ethylene, a polymer or copolymer of propylene, a copolymer of styrene acrylate, a copolymer of styrene butadiene, a copolymer of styrene isoprene, a hydrogenated copolymer of styrene and butadiene, a hydrogenated copolymer of styrene and isoprene, a copolymer of styrene and isobutylene, a copolymer of an ester of acrylic acid or methacrylic acid, a copolymer of vinyl acetate.

[0164] Example 43. The method according to Example 42, wherein the composition contains a polymer, copolymer, or omopolymer of one of ethylene, propylene, 1-butene, isobutylene, 1-octene, 1-hexene, norbornene, vinyl acetate, acrylic or methacrylic acid ester, acrylic or methacrylic acid, dicyclopentadiene. Example 44. The method according to Example 42, wherein the composition contains a polymer, copolymer, or omopolymer of one of propylene, ethylene, 1-butene, isobutylene, 1-octene, 1-hexene, norbornene, vinyl acetate, acrylic or methacrylic acid ester, acrylic or methacrylic acid, dicyclopentadiene. Example 45. The method according to any one of Examples 42 to 44, wherein the composition further contains wax. Example 46. The method according to Example 45, wherein the wax contains one or more of paraffin wax, polyethylene wax, microcrystalline wax, polypropylene wax. Example 47. The method according to any one of Examples 42 to 46, wherein the composition further contains a hydrocarbon resin. Example 48. The method according to Example 47, wherein the hydrocarbon resin contains one or more of a hydrogenated hydrocarbon resin, a polyterpene resin. Example 49. The method according to any one of claims 45 to 48, wherein the wax content ranges from 10% to 40% by weight of the composition. Example 50. The method according to any one of Examples 47 to 49, wherein the hydrocarbon resin content ranges from 30% to 50% by weight of the composition. Example 51. The method according to any one of Examples 42 to 50, wherein the polymer or copolymer content ranges from 30% to 50% by weight of the composition. Example 52. The method according to any one of Examples 1 to 51, wherein the sheet has a basis weight of 170 g / m² to 270 g / m². Example 53. The method according to any one of Examples 1 to 52, wherein the cellulose-based layer has a basis weight of 40 g / m² to 70 g / m². Example 54. The method according to any one of Examples 1 to 53, wherein the first heat-sealable polymer layer has a basis weight of 4 g / m² to 15 g / m². Example 55. The method according to any one of Examples 38 to 54, wherein the basis weight of the second polymer layer is 5 g / m² to 10 g / m². Example 56. The method according to any one of Examples 1 to 55, wherein the sheet has a thickness of 170 micrometers to 400 micrometers. Example 57. The method according to any one of Examples 1 to 56, wherein the cellulose-based layer has a thickness of 30 micrometers to 70 micrometers. Example 58. The method according to any one of Examples 1 to 57, wherein the first heat-sealable polymer layer has a melting point of less than 120 °C as measured according to differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Example 59. The method according to any one of Examples 38 to 58, wherein the second polymer layer does not exhibit thermoplastic behavior at the temperature and pressure used to melt the first heat-sealable polymer layer. Example 60. The method according to Example 59, wherein the second polymer layer has a melting point measured according to differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) that is higher than the melting temperature of the first heat-sealable polymer layer. Example 61. A consumer goods container, the container comprising a consumer goods housing and an outer wrapper having an inner surface and an outer surface, the outer wrapper including a cellulose-based layer, a first portion of the outer wrapper being over a second portion of the outer wrapper at a first end of the housing, the first portion over the second portion covering the first end of the housing such that the outer housing is wrapped around the housing, the first portion forming a rectangular fold, the outer wrapper further comprising a heat-sealable polymer layer provided on at least the inner surface of the first portion of the outer wrapper for sealing the outer wrapper at the first end of the housing. Example 62. The consumer goods container according to Example 61, wherein one or more edges of the first portion of the outer wrapper are formed by one or more cuts in the outer wrapper. Example 63. The consumer goods container according to Example 62, wherein the first portion is connected to the remainder of the outer wrapper by a first portion hinge line. Example 64. The consumer goods container according to Example 62 or Example 63, wherein the first portion of the outer wrapper is formed by two cuts in the outer wrapper. Example 65. The consumer goods container according to Example 64, wherein the two cuts in the outer wrapper are parallel cuts. Example 66. The consumer goods container according to any one of Examples 61 to 65, wherein the second portion of the outer wrapper forms a flap fold. Example 67. A container for consumer goods according to any one of Examples 61 to 65, wherein the second part of the outer wrapper forms a rectangular fold line. Example 68. A container for consumer goods according to any one of Examples 61 to 67, wherein the housing is formed from a cellulosic material. Example 69. A container for consumer goods according to any one of Examples 61 to 68, wherein the first part of the outer wrapper has the same shape and size as the shape and size of the first end of the housing. Example 70. A container for consumer goods according to any one of Examples 61 to 69, wherein the heat-sealable polymer layer is on at least 30 percent of the inner surface of the first part, preferably the heat-sealable polymer layer is on at least 80 percent of the inner surface of the first part, and more preferably the heat-sealable polymer layer is on the entire inner surface of the first part. Example 71. A container for consumer goods according to any one of Examples 61 to 70, wherein the outer wrapper further includes a metallized layer. Example 72. A container for consumer goods according to Example 71, wherein the metallized layer is on the inner surface of the cellulosic layer. Example 73. A container for consumer goods according to Example 71, wherein the metallized layer is on the outer surface of the cellulosic layer. Example 74. A container for consumer goods according to any one of Examples 71 to 73, wherein the metallized layer is an aluminum layer. Example 75. A container for consumer goods according to Example 72, wherein the metallized layer is between the cellulosic layer and the heat-sealable polymer layer. Example 76. A container for consumer goods according to any one of Examples 71 to 73, wherein the metallized layer has a thickness of at least 10 nanometers, and preferably the metallized layer has a thickness of at least 15 nanometers. Example 77. The container for consumer goods according to any one of Examples 72 to 76, wherein the primer layer is between the cellulose-based layer and the metallized layer. Example 78. The container for consumer goods according to any one of Examples 71 to 77, wherein the protective layer covers the metallized layer. Example 79. The container for consumer goods according to any one of Examples 61 to 78, wherein the outer wrapper completely covers the housing. Example 80. The container for consumer goods according to any one of Examples 61 to 79, wherein the outer wrapper is wound around the housing such that the first edge region of the outer wrapper overlaps the opposing second edge region of the outer wrapper in the longitudinal axis direction along the housing. Example 81. The outer wrapper is wound around the housing such that the third part of the outer wrapper is on top of the fourth part at the second end of the housing and covers the second end of the housing. The container for consumer goods according to any one of Examples 61 to 80, wherein the third part of the outer wrapper forms a rectangular fold. Example 82. The container for consumer goods according to Example 81, wherein the fourth part of the outer wrapper forms an envelope fold. Example 83. The container for consumer goods according to Example 81, wherein the fourth part of the outer wrapper forms a rectangular fold. Example 84. The container for consumer goods according to any one of Examples 81 to 83, wherein the heat-sealable polymer layer is provided on the inner surface of the third part. Example 85. The container for consumer goods according to any one of Examples 61 to 84, wherein the heat-sealable polymer layer is on at least 50 percent of the inner surface of the outer wrapper, preferably on at least 80 percent of the inner surface of the outer wrapper, and more preferably on the entire inner surface of the outer wrapper. Example 86. A consumer goods container according to any one of Examples 61 to 85, wherein an outer wrapper forms a seal at a first end of the container. Example 87. A consumer goods container according to any one of Examples 81 to 86, wherein an outer wrapper forms a seal at a second end of the container.

[0165] Example 88. A consumer goods container according to any one of Examples 61 to 87, wherein the housing has a substantially parallelepiped shape. Example 89. A consumer goods container according to any one of Examples 61 to 88, wherein the container is a hinged lid box comprising a box portion and a lid portion connected to the box portion along a hinge line extending across a rear wall of the container, the hinged lid box being formed by the housing and the outer wrapper. Example 90. A consumer goods container according to Example 89, wherein the lid portion is movable from a first closed position in which an opening of the housing is covered to a second open position in which the opening of the housing is not covered. Example 91. A consumer goods container according to Example 89 or Example 90, wherein the lid portion and the box portion are separated by an opening line extending across one or more walls of the container. Example 92. A consumer goods container according to Example 91, wherein the opening line is defined by a weakened line in one or both of the housing and the outer wrapper. Example 93. A consumer goods container according to Example 92, wherein the weakened line in one or both of the housing and the outer wrapper is a tear tape or an etched line. Example 94. A consumer goods container according to Example 93, wherein the weakened line in one or both of the housing and the outer wrapper includes an etched line having a depth of 80 percent or less of the thickness of one or both of the housing and the outer wrapper. Example 95. The heat-sealable polymer layer is the first heat-sealable polymer layer, and the outer wrapper further includes a second polymer layer. The container for consumer goods according to any one of Examples 94 to 90. Example 96. The container for consumer goods according to Example 95, wherein the second polymer layer is provided between the cellulose-based layer and the first heat-sealable polymer layer. Example 97. The container for consumer goods according to Example 95 or Example 96, wherein the second polymer layer is a moisture-proof barrier. Example 98. The container for consumer goods according to any one of Examples 95 to 97, wherein the second polymer layer extends over the entire inner surface of the outer wrapper. Example 99. The container for consumer goods according to any one of Examples 61 to 98, wherein one or both of the first or second polymer layers contain a composition including one or more of a polymer, copolymer, or terpolymer of ethylene, a polymer, copolymer, or terpolymer of propylene, a copolymer of styrene acrylate, a copolymer of styrene butadiene, a copolymer of styrene isoprene, a hydrogenated copolymer of styrene butadiene, a hydrogenated copolymer of styrene isoprene, a copolymer of an ester of acrylic acid or methacrylic acid, and a copolymer of vinyl acetate. Example 100. The container for consumer goods according to Example 99, wherein the composition includes a polymer, copolymer, or terpolymer of one of ethylene, propylene, 1-butene, isobutylene, 1-octene, 1-hexene, norbornene, vinyl acetate, an acrylic or methacrylic acid ester, acrylic or methacrylic acid, and dicyclopentadiene. Example 101. The container for consumer goods according to Example 100, wherein the composition includes a polymer, copolymer, or terpolymer of one of propylene, ethylene, 1-butene, isobutylene, 1-octene, 1-hexene, norbornene, vinyl acetate, an acrylic or methacrylic acid ester, acrylic or methacrylic acid, and dicyclopentadiene. Example 102. The container for consumer goods according to any one of Examples 99 to 101, wherein the composition further contains wax. Example 103. The container for consumer goods according to Example 102, wherein the wax contains one or more of paraffin wax, polyethylene wax, microcrystalline wax, and polypropylene wax. Example 104. The container for consumer goods according to any one of Examples 99 to 103, wherein the composition further contains a hydrocarbon resin. Example 105. The container for consumer goods according to Example 104, wherein the hydrocarbon resin contains one or more of a hydrogenated hydrocarbon resin and a polyterpene resin. Example 106. The container for consumer goods according to any one of Examples 105 to 101, wherein the content of the wax ranges from 10% to 40% by weight of the composition. Example 107. The container for consumer goods according to any one of Examples 104 to 106, wherein the content of the hydrocarbon resin ranges from 30% to 50% by weight of the composition. Example 108. The container for consumer goods according to any one of Examples 99 to 107, wherein the content of the polymer or copolymer ranges from 30% to 50% by weight of the composition. Example 109. The container for consumer goods according to any one of Examples 61 to 108, wherein the sheet has a basis weight of 170 g / m² to 270 g / m². Example 110. The container for consumer goods according to any one of Examples 61 to 109, wherein the cellulose-based layer has a basis weight of 40 g / m² to 70 g / m². Example 111. The container for consumer goods according to any one of Examples 61 to 110, wherein the polymer layer has a basis weight of 4 g / m² to 15 g / m². Example 112. The basis weight of the second polymer layer is from 5 g / m² to 10 g / m², and the consumer product container according to any one of Examples 95 to 111. Example 113. The sheet has a thickness of 170 micrometers to 400 micrometers, and the consumer product container according to any one of Examples 61 to 112. Example 114. The cellulose-based layer has a thickness of 30 micrometers to 60 micrometers, and the consumer product container according to any one of Examples 61 to 113. Example 115. The polymer layer has a melting point of less than 120 °C measured according to differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and the consumer product container according to any one of Examples 61 to 114. Example 116. The second polymer layer does not exhibit thermoplastic behavior at the temperature and pressure used to melt the first heat-sealable polymer layer, and the consumer product container according to any one of Examples 95 to 115. Example 117. The second polymer layer has a melting point measured according to differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) that is higher than the melting temperature of the first heat-sealable polymer layer, and the consumer product container according to Example 116. Example 118. The first portion of the outer wrapper is subordinate to the fold of the first wall of the outer wrapper, and the consumer product container according to any one of Examples 61 to 117. Example 119. The second portion of the outer wrapper is subordinate to the fold of the second wall of the outer wrapper, and the consumer product container according to Example 118. Example 120. The second wall of the outer wrapper is on the opposite side of the first wall, and the consumer product container according to Example 119. Example 121. The first wall of the outer wrapper is the front wall, and the consumer product container according to any one of Examples 118 to 120. Example 122. A consumer goods container according to any one of Examples 119 to 121, wherein the second wall of the outer wrapper is a rear wall. Example 123. A consumer goods container according to any one of Examples 61 to 122, wherein the first part of the wrapper completely overlaps the first end of the housing. Example 124. A consumer goods container according to any one of Examples 61 to 123, wherein at the first end of the housing, the outer wrapper consists of a first part and a second part of the outer wrapper. Example 125. A consumer goods container according to any one of Examples 61 to 124, wherein it is preferable that the first part of the outer wrapper completely overlaps the second part of the outer wrapper.

Claims

1. A container for consumer goods, wherein the container is Housing for consumer goods, An outer wrapper having an inner surface and an outer surface, comprising a cellulose-based layer, The outer wrapper is wrapped around the housing such that the first portion of the outer wrapper is on top of the second portion of the outer wrapper at the first end of the housing and covers the first end of the housing. The first portion of the outer wrapper forms a rectangular fold, A container for consumer goods, wherein the outer wrapper further comprises a heat-sealable polymer layer provided on at least the inner surface of the first portion of the outer wrapper, the heat-sealable polymer layer being sealed over the first end of the housing.

2. The container for consumer goods according to claim 1, wherein the first portion of the outer wrapper is formed by two notches within the outer wrapper.

3. The container for consumer goods according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first portion of the outer wrapper has the same shape and size as the first end of the housing.

4. The container for consumer goods according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the second portion of the outer wrapper forms an envelope fold or a rectangular fold.

5. The outer wrapper is wrapped around the housing such that the third portion of the outer wrapper is on the second end of the housing and over the fourth portion, and covers the second end of the housing. The container for consumer goods according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the third portion of the outer wrapper forms a rectangular fold.

6. A container for consumer goods according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the heat-sealable polymer layer is provided on the inner surface of the third portion to seal the outer wrapper at the second end of the housing.

7. A container for consumer goods according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the heat-sealable polymer layer is preferably located on at least 50 percent of the inner surface of the outer wrapper, preferably on at least 80 percent of the inner surface of the outer wrapper, and more preferably on the entire inner surface of the outer wrapper.

8. A container for consumer goods according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the container is a hinged lid box comprising a box portion and a lid portion connected to the box portion along a hinge line extending across the rear wall of the container, the hinged lid container being formed by the housing and the outer wrapper being sealed on the housing.

9. The lid portion and the box portion are separated by an opening line that extends across one or more walls of the container. The container for consumer goods according to claim 8, wherein the opening line is defined by a weak line in either or both of the housing and the outer wrapper.

10. The container for consumer goods according to claim 9, wherein the weak line of one or both of the housing and the outer wrapper includes an etched line having a depth of 80 percent or less of the thickness of one or both of the housing and the outer wrapper.

11. The container for consumer goods according to claim 1, wherein the heat-sealable polymer layer is a first heat-sealable polymer layer, and the outer wrapper further comprises a second polymer layer or a metallized layer.

12. The second polymer layer or metallized layer is provided between the cellulose-based layer and the first heat-sealable polymer layer. The container for consumer goods according to claim 11, wherein the second polymer layer extends over the entire inner surface of the outer wrapper.

13. A container for consumer goods according to claim 11 or 12, wherein one or both of the first or second polymer layers comprises a composition containing one or more of the following: ethylene polymer or copolymer, propylene polymer or copolymer, styrene acrylate copolymer, styrene butadiene copolymer, styrene isoprene copolymer, hydrogenated styrene butadiene copolymer, hydrogenated styrene isoprene copolymer, acrylic acid or methacrylic acid ester copolymer, and vinyl acetate copolymer.

14. The container for consumer goods according to claim 1, wherein the first portion of the outer wrapper is subordinate to a fold in the first wall of the outer wrapper.

15. The container for consumer goods according to claim 14, wherein the second portion of the outer wrapper is subordinate to a fold in the second wall of the outer wrapper.

16. The container for consumer goods according to claim 15, wherein the second wall of the outer wrapper is on the opposite side of the first wall.

17. A container for consumer goods according to any one of claims 14 to 16, wherein the first wall of the outer wrapper is a front wall.

18. The container for consumer goods according to claim 17, wherein the second wall of the outer wrapper is a rear wall.

19. A container for consumer goods according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first portion of the wrapper completely overlaps the first end of the housing.

20. A container for consumer goods according to claim 1 or 2, wherein at the first end of the housing, the outer wrapper comprises the first portion of the outer wrapper and the second portion of the outer wrapper.

21. A container for consumer goods according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first portion of the outer wrapper completely overlaps the second portion of the outer wrapper.

22. A container for consumer goods according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the first and second parts are subordinate to their respective folds.

23. A method for forming a container for consumer goods, wherein the method is The process of providing housing for consumer goods, A step of providing an outer wrapper, wherein the outer wrapper includes a cellulose-based layer, and a heat-sealable polymer layer is provided on at least the inner surface of a first portion of the outer wrapper. A folding step of folding the outer wrapper around the housing such that the first portion of the outer wrapper is on top of the second portion of the outer wrapper at the first end of the housing and covers the first end of the housing, wherein the first portion forms a rectangular fold, A method comprising: heating the housing and the outer wrapper to seal the heat-sealable polymer layer onto the housing, wherein the heating step includes heating the outer wrapper to form a seal on the first end of the container.

24. The method according to claim 23, wherein heating the housing and the outer wrapper includes heating the outer wrapper to the housing while applying pressure to seal the outer wrapper onto the housing.

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