A package

Abstract

The present invention relates to a package for an aerosol provision device. The package comprises a container. The container comprises an inner container formed from a single unitary component of pulp material, and a cover portion. The container further comprises an outer sleeve configured to extend at least partially around the container to maintain the container in a closed position.

Description

[0001] A Package

[0002] Technical field of the invention The present invention relates to a package. More specifically, the present invention relates to the package for an aerosol provision device formed from recyclable material.

[0003] Background of the Invention Known packaging for aerosol provision to vices at generally formed from a cardboard material that has a plastic tray insert and outer plastic wrap. The plastic components of the packaging are formed from non renewable resources whose production negatively impacts the environment. In addition, the multiple different components and materials require complex machinery and assembly lines to produce. Furthermore, these materials are not widely recyclable and are not biodegradable.

[0004] Summary of the Invention

[0005] In one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a package for an aerosol provision device. The package comprises a container comprising: an inner container formed from a single unitary component of pulp material, and a cover portion; and an outer sleeve configured to extend at least partially around the container to maintain the container in a closed position. In some embodiments, the single unitary component of pulp material may comprise bamboo and bagasse.

[0006] In some embodiments, the single unitaiy component of pulp material may further comprise at least one of wood fibre, sugar cane, wheat straw, bulrush, starch, and rice husk.

[0007] In some embodiments, the single unitary component of pulp material may be formed from in the range of about 60% to about 70% bamboo and in the range of about 30% to about 40% bagasse. In some embodiments, the single unitary component of pulp material may be formed from about 65% bamboo and about 35% bagasse.

[0008] In some embodiments, the single unitaiy component of pulp material may be reinforced with fibres.

[0009] In some embodiments, the fibres may be at least one of cotton fibres, sugar cane, or cellulose fibres. In some embodiments, the single unitary component of pulp material may comprise a wall thickness in the range of about 0.7 mm to about 1.0 mm.

[0010] In some embodiments, the single unitary component of pulp material may comprise a wall thickness of about 0.8 mm.

[0011] In some embodiments, the single unitaiy component of pulp material may essentially consist of bamboo and bagasse.

[0012] In some embodiments, the inner container may comprise a first portion, and a second portion, the first and second portions being configured to be located opposite each other and seal closed an aerosol provision device receiving space in the closed position.

[0013] In some embodiments, the first portion of the inner container may comprise a first embossed region comprising a first recess configured to receive a device.

[0014] In some embodiments, the second portion of the inner container may comprise a second embossed region comprising a second recess configured to receive a device accessory In some embodiments, in the closed position at least a portion of the second recess may be provided opposite the first recess.

[0015] In some embodiments, the first and / or second recess may comprise a translucent paper configured to adhere to the periphery of the first and / or second recess and close the first and / or second recess. In some embodiments, the translucent paper may have a basis weight in the range of about 60 gsm to about no gsm.

[0016] In some embodiments, the inner container may comprise a third portion, the first and second portions hingedly connected to opposing sides of the third portion.

[0017] In some embodiments, the third portion of the inner container may comprise a third embossed region comprising a third recess configured to receive a pen device. In some embodiments, the cover may comprise a first part, a second part, and a third part, which each cover the first portion, the second portion, and the third portion of the inner container, respectively.

[0018] In some embodiments, the first part of the cover may comprise a pocket configured to receive an information booklet.

[0019] In some embodiments, the cover may be formed from the same material as the single unitaiy component of pulp material. In some embodiments, the cover may comprise a wall thickness in the range of about 0.7 mm to about 1.0 mm, preferably about 0.8 mm.

[0020] In some embodiments, a closed cavity may be formed between the inner container and the cover portion.

[0021] In some embodiments, the closed cavity may comprise supporting material.

[0022] In some embodiments, the inner container and the cover portion may be formed from a single unitary component of pulp material.

[0023] In some embodiments, the outer sleeve may be formed from a paper material.

[0024] In some embodiments, the paper material may have a basis weight in the range of about 160 gsm to about 200 gsm.

[0025] In some embodiments, the paper material may have a basis weight of about 180 gsm. In some embodiments, the paper material may be impregnated with a dye.

[0026] In some embodiments, the package may further comprise a tear strip configured to provide an opening mechanism for the package.

[0027] In another aspect, there is provided a single unitary component of pulp material for forming a package for an aerosol provision device. The single unitary component of pulp material may comprise bamboo and bagasse.

[0028] The single unitary component of pulp material may further comprise at least one of wood fibre, sugar cane, wheat straw, bulrush, starch, and rice husk. The single unitary component of pulp material may be formed from in the range of about 60% to about 70% bamboo and in the range of about 30% to about 40% bagasse.

[0029] The single unitary component of pulp material may be formed from about 65% bamboo and about 35% bagasse.

[0030] The single unitaiy component of pulp material may be reinforced with fibres.

[0031] The fibres may be at least one of cotton fibres, sugar cane, or cellulose fibres. The single unitary component of pulp material may comprise a wall thickness in the range of about 0.7 mm to about 1.0 mm.

[0032] The single unitary component of pulp material may comprise a wall thickness of about 0.8 mm.

[0033] The single unitary component of pulp material may essentially consist of bamboo and bagasse.

[0034] The single unitaiy component of pulp material may comprise a first portion, a second portion for forming an inner container, the first and second portions being configured to be located opposite each other and seal closed an aerosol provision device receiving space in the closed position.

[0035] The first portion of the inner container may comprise a first embossed region comprising a first recess configured to receive a device.

[0036] The second portion of the inner container may comprise a second embossed region comprising at least one second recess configured to receive a device accessory. In the closed position, at least a portion of the second recess may be provided opposite the first recess.

[0037] The third portion of the inner container may comprise a third embossed region comprising third recess configured to receive a pen device.

[0038] The inner container may comprise the first and second portions hingedly connected to opposing sides of the third portion.

[0039] The component may further comprise a first part, a second part, and a third part for forming a cover portion, wherein each cover the first portion, the second portion, and the third portion of the inner container, respectively.

[0040] Brief Description of the Drawings Importance of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0041] Fig. 1 shows a schematic perspective view of a package for an aerosol provision device;

[0042] Fig. 2 shows a schematic perspective view of a package with an outer sleeve removed from a container;

[0043] Fig. 3 shows a schematic perspective view of a package in its open configuration;

[0044] Fig. 4 shows a schematic perspective view of a package in its open configuration;

[0045] Fig. 5 shows a schematic side view of a single unitaiy component;

[0046] Fig. 6 shows a schematic perspective view of a package in its open configuration; Fig. 7 shows a schematic perspective view of a package in its open configuration;

[0047] Fig. 8 shows a schematic top view of a recess closing component; and Fig. 9 shows a schematic top view of an outer sleeve.

[0048] Detailed Description As used herein, the term “delivery system” is intended to encompass systems that deliver at least one substance to a user, and includes: combustible aerosol provision systems, such as cigarettes, cigarillos, cigars, and tobacco for pipes or for roll-your-own or for make-your own cigarettes (whether based on tobacco, tobacco derivatives, expanded tobacco, reconstituted tobacco, tobacco substitutes or other smokeable material) ; non-combustible aerosol provision systems that release compounds from an aerosol-generating material without combusting the aerosol-generating material, such as electronic cigarettes, tobacco heating products, and hybrid systems to generate aerosol using a combination of aerosol-generating materials; and aerosol-free delivery systems that deliver the at least one substance to a user orally, nasally, transdermally or in another way without forming an aerosol, including but not limited to, lozenges, gums, patches, articles comprising inhalable powders, and oral products such as oral tobacco which includes snus or moist snuff, wherein the at least one substance may or may not comprise nicotine.

[0049] According to the present disclosure, a “combustible” aerosol provision system is one where a constituent aerosol-generating material of the aerosol provision system (or component thereof) is combusted or burned during use in order to facilitate deliveiy of at least one substance to a user.

[0050] In some embodiments, the deliveiy system is a combustible aerosol provision system, such as a system selected from the group consisting of a cigarette, a cigarillo, and a cigar. In some embodiments, the disclosure relates to a component for use in a combustible aerosol provision system, such as a filter rod, a filter segment, a tobacco rod, a spill, an aerosol-modifying agent release component such as a capsule, a thread, or a bead, or a paper such as a plug wrap, a tipping paper or a cigarette paper. According to the present disclosure, a “non-combustible” aerosol provision system is one where a constituent aerosol-generating material of the aerosol provision system (or component thereof) is not combusted or burned in order to facilitate delivery of at least one substance to a user.

[0051] In some embodiments, the deliveiy system is a non-combustible aerosol provision system, such as a powered non-combustible aerosol provision system.

[0052] In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol provision system is an aerosol-generating material heating system, also known as a heat-not-burn system. An example of such a system is a tobacco heating system.

[0053] In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol provision system is a hybrid system to generate aerosol using a combination of aerosol-generating materials, one or a plurality of which may be heated. Each of the aerosol-generating materials may be, for example, in the form of a solid, liquid or gel and may or may not contain nicotine. In some embodiments, the hybrid system comprises a liquid or gel aerosolgenerating material and a solid aerosol-generating material. The solid aerosolgenerating material may comprise, for example, tobacco or a non-tobacco product.

[0054] Typically, the non-combustible aerosol provision system may comprise a non- combustible aerosol provision device and a consumable for use with the non- combustible aerosol provision device.

[0055] In some embodiments, the disclosure relates to consumables comprising aerosol-generating material and configured to be used with non-combustible aerosol provision devices. These consumables are sometimes referred to as articles throughout the disclosure.

[0056] In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol provision system, such as a non-combustible aerosol provision device thereof, may comprise a power source and a controller. The power source may, for example, be an electric power source or an exothermic power source. In some embodiments, the exothermic power source comprises a carbon substrate which may be energised so as to distribute power in the form of heat to an aerosol-generating material or to a heat transfer material in proximity to the exothermic power source. In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol provision system may comprise an area for receiving the consumable, an aerosol generator, an aerosol generation area, a housing, a mouthpiece, a filter and / or an aerosol -modifying agent. In some embodiments, the consumable for use with the non-combustible aerosol provision device may comprise aerosol-generating material, an aerosolgenerating material storage area, an aerosol-generating material transfer component, an aerosol generator, an aerosol generation area, a housing, a wrapper, a filter, a mouthpiece, and / or an aerosol -modifying agent.

[0057] In some embodiments, the substance to be delivered may be an aerosolgenerating material or a material that is not intended to be aerosolised. As appropriate, either material may comprise one or more active constituents, one or more flavours, one or more aerosol-former materials, and / or one or more other functional materials.

[0058] In some embodiments, the substance to be delivered comprises an active substance.

[0059] The active substance as used herein may be a physiologically active material, which is a material intended to achieve or enhance a physiological response. The active substance may for example be selected from nutraceuticals, nootropics, psychoactives. The active substance may be naturally occurring or synthetically obtained. The active substance may comprises for example nicotine, caffeine, taurine, theine, vitamins such as B6 or B12 or C, melatonin, cannabinoids, or sonstituents, derivatives, or combinations thereof. The active substance may comprises one or more constituents, derivatives or extracts of tobacco, cannabis or another botanical.

[0060] In some embodiment, the active substance comprises nicotine. In some embodiments, the active substance comprises caffeine, melatonin, or vitamin B12.

[0061] As noted herein, the active substance may comprises one or more constituents, derivatives or extracts of cannabis, such as one or more cannabinoids or terpenes.

[0062] As noted herein, the active substance may comprise or be derived from one or more botanicals or constituents, derivatives or extracts thereof. As used herein, the term “botanical” includes any material derived from plants including, but not limited to, extracts, leaves, bark, fibres, stems, roots, seeds, flowers, fruits, pollen, husk, shells or the like. Alternatively, the material may comprise an active compound naturally existing in a botanical, obtained synthetically. The material may be in the form of liquid, gas, solid, powder, dust, crushed particles, granules, pellets, shreds, strips, sheets, or the like.

[0063] Example botanicals are tobacco eucalyptus, star anise, hemp, cocoa, cannabis, fennel, lemongrass, peppermint, spearmint, rooibos, chamomile, flax, giner, ginkgo biloba, hazel, hibiscus, laurel, licorice (liquorice), matcha, mate, orange skin, papaya, rose, sage, tea such as green tea or black tea, thyme, clove, cinnamon, coffe, aniseed (anise), basil, bay leaves, cardamom, coriander, cumin, nutmeg, oregano, paprika, rosemary, saffron, lavender, lemon peel, mint, juniper, elderflower, vanilla, wintergreen, beefsteak plant, curcuma, turmeric, sandalwood, cilantro, bergamot, orange blossom, myrtle, cassis, valerian, pimento, mace, damien, maijoram, olive, lemon balm, lemon basil, chive, carvi, verbena, tarragon, geranium, mulberiy, ginseng, theanine, theacrine, maca, ashwagandha, damiana, guarana, chlorophyll, baobab or any combination thereof. The min may be chosen from the following mint varieties: Mentha Arventis, Mentha c.v., Mentha niliaca, Mentha piperita, Mentha piperita citrata c.v., Mentha piperita c.v, Mentha spicata crispa, Mentha cardifolia, Memtha longifolia, Mentha suaveolens variegata, Mentha pulegium, Mentha spicata c.v. and Mentha suaveolens.

[0064] In some embodiments, the active substance comprises or is derived from one or more botanicals or constituents, derivatives or extracts thereof and the botanical is tobacco.

[0065] In some embodiments, the active substance comprises or is derived from one or more botancials or constituents, derivatives, or extracts thereof and the botanical is selected from eucalyptus, star anise, cocoa, and hemp.

[0066] In some embodiments, the active substance comprises or is derived from one or more botanicals or constituents, derivatives, or extracts thereof and the botanical is selected from rooibos and fennel.

[0067] In some embodiments, the substance to be delivered comprises a flavour. As used herein, the terms "flavour" and "flavourant" refer to materials which, where local regulations permit, may be used to create a desired taste, aroma or other somatosensorial sensation in a product for adult consumers. They may include naturally occurring flavour materials, botanicals, extracts of botanicals, synthetically obtained materials, or combinations thereof (e.g., tobacco, cannabis, licorice (liquorice), hydrangea, eugenol, Japanese white bark magnolia leaf, chamomile, fenugreek, clove, maple, matcha, menthol, Japanese mint, aniseed (anise), cinnamon, turmeric, Indian spices, Asian spices, herb, wintergreen, cheriy, berry, red berry, cranberry, peach, apple, orange, mango, clementine, lemon, lime, tropical fruit, papaya, rhubarb, grape, durian, dragon fruit, cucumber, blueberry, mulberiy, citrus fruits, Drambuie, bourbon, scotch, whiskey, gin, tequila, rum, spearmint, peppermint, lavender, aloe vera, cardamom, celery, cascarilla, nutmeg, sandalwood, bergamot, geranium, khat, naswar, betel, shisha, pine, honey essence, rose oil, vanilla, lemon oil, orange oil, orange blossom, cherry blossom, cassia, caraway, cognac, jasmine, ylang- ylang, sage, fennel, wasabi, piment, ginger, coriander, coffee, hemp, a mint oil from any species of the genus Mentha, eucalyptus, star anise, cocoa, lemongrass, rooibos, flax, ginkgo biloba, hazel, hibiscus, laurel, mate, orange skin, rose, tea such as green tea or black tea, thyme, juniper, elderflower, basil, bay leaves, cumin, oregano, paprika, rosemary, saffron, lemon peel, mint, beefsteak plant, curcuma, cilantro, myrtle, cassis, valerian, pimento, mace, damien, maijoram, olive, lemon balm, lemon basil, chive, carvi, verbena, tarragon, limonene, thymol, camphene), flavour enhancers, bitterness receptor site blockers, sensorial receptor site activators or stimulators, sugars and / or sugar substitutes (e.g., sucralose, acesulfame potassium, aspartame, saccharine, cyclamates, lactose, sucrose, glucose, fructose, sorbitol, or mannitol), and other additives such as charcoal, chlorophyll, minerals, botanicals, or breath freshening agents. They may be imitation, synthetic or natural ingredients or blends thereof. They may be in any suitable form, for example, liquid such as an oil, solid such as a powder, or gas. In some embodiments, the flavour comprises menthol, spearmint and / or peppermint. In some embodiments, the flavour comprises flavour components of cucumber, blueberiy, citrus fruits and / or redberiy. In some embodiments, the flavour comprises eugenol. In some embodiments, the flavour comprises flavour components extracted from tobacco. In some embodiment, the flavour comprises flavour components extracted from cannabis. In some embodiments, the flavour may comprises a sensate, which is intended to achieve a somatosensorial sensation which are usually chemically induced and perceived by the stimulation of the fifth cranial nerve (trigeminal nerve), in addition to or in place of aroma or taster nerves, and these may include against providing heating, cooling, tingling, numbing effect. A suitable heat effect agent may be, but is not limited to, vanillyl ethyl ether and a suitable cooling agent may be, but not limited to eucolyptol, WS-3.

[0068] Aerosol-generating material is a material that is capable of generating aerosol, for example when heated, irradiated or energized in any other way. Aerosol-generating material may, for example, be in the form of a solid, liquid, or gel, which may or may not contain an active substance and / or flavourants. In some embodiments, the aerosolgenerating material may comprise an “amorphous solid”, which may alternatively be referred to as a “monolithic solid” (i.e. non-fibrous). In some embodiments, the amorphous solid may be a dried gel. The amorphous solid is a solid material that may retain some fluid, such as liquid, within it. In some embodiments, the aerosolgenerating material may for example comprise from about 50wt%, 6owt%, or 70wt% of amorphous solid, to about 90wt%, 95wt% or ioowt% of amorphous solid. The aerosol-generating material may comprise one or more active substances and / or flavours, one or more aerosol -former materials, and optionally one or more other functional materials.

[0069] The aerosol-former material may comprise one or more constituents capable of forming an aerosol. In some embodiments, the aerosol-former material may comprise one or more of glycerol, propylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, 1,3-butylene glycol, eiythritol, meso-Erythritol, ethyl vanillate, ethyl laurate, a diethyl suberate, triethyl citrate, triacetin, a diacetin mixture, benzyl benzoate, benzyl phenyl acetate, tributyrin, lauiyl acetate, lauric acid, myristic acid, and propylene carbonate.

[0070] The one or more other functional materials may comprise one or more of a pH regulator, colouring agents, preservatives, binders, fillers, stabilizers, and / or antioxidants. The material may be present on or in a support, to form a substrate. The support may, for example, be or comprise paper, card, paperboard, cardboard, reconstituted material, a plastics material, a ceramic material, a composite material, glass, a metal, or a metal alloy. In some embodiments, the support comprises a susceptor. In some embodiments, the susceptor is embedded within the material. In some alternative embodiments, the susceptor is on one or either side of the material.

[0071] A consumable is an article comprising or consisting of aerosol-generating material, part or all of which is intended to be consumed during use by a user. A consumable may comprise one or more other components, such as an aerosol- generatingae material storage area, an aerosol-generating material transfer component, an aerosol generation area, a housing, a wrapper, a mouthpiece, a filter and / or an aerosol-modifying agent. A consumable may also comprise an aerosol generator, such as a heater, that emits heat to cause the aerosol-generating material to generate aerosol in use. The heater may, for example, comprise combustible material, a material heatable by electrical conduction, or a susceptor.

[0072] A susceptor is a material that is heatable by penetration with a varying magnetic field, such as an alternating magnetic field. The susceptor may be an electrically- conductive material, so that penetration thereof with a varying magnetic field causes induction heating of the heating material. The heating material may be magnetic material, so that penetration thereof with a varying magnetic field causes magnetic hysteresis heating of the heating material. The susceptor may be both electrically- conductive and magnetic, so that the susceptor is heatable by both heating mechanisms. The device that is configured to generate the varying magnetic field is referred to as a magnetic field generator, herein.

[0073] An aerosol-modifying agent is a substance, typically located downstream of the aerosol generation area, that is configured to modify the aerosol generated, for example by changing the taste, flavour, acidity or another characteristic of the aerosol. The aerosol-modifying agent may be provided in an aerosol-modifying agent release component, that is operable to selectively release the aerosol-modifying agent

[0074] The aerosol-modifying agent may, for example, be an additive or a sorbent. The aerosol-modifying agent may, for example, comprise one or more of a flavourant, a colourant, water, and a carbon adsorbent. The aerosol-modifying agent may, for example, be a solid, a liquid, or a gel. The aerosol-modifying agent may be in powder, thread or granule form. The aerosol-modifying agent may be free from filtration material. An aerosol generator is an apparatus configured to cause aerosol to be generated from the aerosol-generating material. In some embodiments, the aerosol generator is a heater configured to subject the aerosol-generating material to heat energy, so as to release one or more volatiles from the aerosol-generating material to form an aerosol. In some embodiments, the aerosol generator is configured to cause an aerosol to be generated from the aerosol-generating material without heating. For example, the aerosol generator may be configured to subject the aerosol-generating material to one or more of vibration, increased pressure, or electrostatic energy.

[0075] Referring now to Fig. 1, there is shown a package 1 for an aerosol provision device 2, shown in Figs. 3 and 4. The package 1 is shown in closed configuration before first opening. The package 1 comprises a container 3. The package 1 also comprises an outer sleeve 4. The outer sleeve 4 is configured to extend at least partially around the container 3 to maintain the container 3 in a closed position. Referring briefly to Fig. 2, there is shown a package 1 with the outer sleeve 4 removed from the container 3. The container 3 comprises an inner container 5 and a cover portion 6. the inner container 5 is formed from a single unitary component 7 of pulp material. The package 1 may be formed from a pulp material. In some embodiments, the single unitary component 7, shown in Fig. 5, may be formed from pulp material. The pulp material may comprise at least one of wood fibre, bamboo, bagasse, sugar cane, wheat straw, bulrush, starch, and rice husk. In some embodiments, the single unitary component 7 of pulp material that forms the inner container 5 may comprise baboo and bagasse. In some embodiments, the single unitary component 7 of pulp material may essentially consist of bamboo and bagasse. In some embodiments, the single unitary component 7 of pulp material that forms the inner container may further comprise at least one of wood fibre, sugar can, wheat straw, bulrush, starch, and rice husk. It will be appreciated that the single unitary component of pulp material may be considered to be analogous to a blank for forming a package for combustible aerosol provision systems. In some embodiments, the single unitary component 7 of pulp material may be formed from in the range of about 60% to about 70% bamboo and in the range of about 30% to about 40% bagasse. In some embodiments, the single unitary component 7 of pulp material may be formed from about 65% bamboo and about 35% bagasse. A pulp material with constituents in these ranges provides a material that is sufficiently rigid for packaging a product whilst providing minimal disadvantages to its use, including a low level of formation of dust.

[0076] In some embodiments, the single unitary component 7 of pulp material may be reinforced with fibres. The fibres may be at least one of cotton fibres, sugar can fibres, and cellulose fibres. The fibres may provide added structural strength to the component, i.e. inner container, formed from the pulp material.

[0077] In some embodiments, the single unitary component 7 of pulp material may comprise a wall thickness in the range of about 0.7 mm to about 1.0 mm, as will be described in more detail hereinafter. In some embodiments, the single unitary component 7 of pulp material may comprise a wall thickness of about 0.8 mm.

[0078] It will be appreciated that in some embodiments, the inner container 5 and the cover portion 6 may be formed from a single unitary component 7 of pulp material. The pulp material may be as described above. Furthermore, it will be appreciated that other components of the package 1, such as the outer sleeve 4, may be formed from a pulp material. The pulp material may be the same as described above.

[0079] The single unitary component 7 of pulp material may be formed using a moulded pulp method. In some embodiments, the pulp material may be provided in a mould. The pulp material may be provided in the form of a sluriy. The pulp material may then be subjected to heat and pressure to form the single unitary component 7 of pulp material. Referring now to Fig. 3 and Fig.4, there is shown an embodiment of the package

[0080] 1 in its open configuration. That is, the outer sleeve 4 of the package 1 has been removed from the container 3, and the container 3 has been opened. Fig. 3 shows the inner container 3 with an aerosol provision device and accessories located therein. Fig. 4 shows the inner container 3 without such devise and accessories. The inner container 5 may comprise a first portion 11, a second portion 12, and a third portion 13. The first portion 11, second portion 12, and third portion 13 may be hingedly connected together. That is, the first portion 11, second portion 12, and third portion 13 may connected together by a first hinge 14 and a second hinge 15. The first and second portions 11, 12 may be hingedly connected to opposing sides of the third portion 13. For example, the first portion 11 may be connected to the third portion 13 by the first hinge 14, and the second portion 12 may be connected to the opposite side of the third portion 13 by the second hinge 15.

[0081] In some embodiments, the first and second hinge 14, 15 may be formed by a channel or groove formed in the pulp material of the single unitary component 7 forming the inner container 5. In some embodiments, the first and second hinge 14, 15 may be formed by a “U”-shaped groove or by a “V”-shaped groove. It will be appreciated that in other embodiments, the hinges may be formed by any other suitably shaped channel. The shape of the grooves forming the hinges may refer to the shape of the grooves formed in the single unitaiy component 7 used to form the inner container 5. That is, the description of the shapes of the grooves forming the hinges may refer to the shape of the grooves prior to folding the single unitary component 7 to form the inner container 5 of the package 1. In some embodiments, the inner container 5 may be further formed from one or more unitary components 7 of pulp material in combination with the single unitary component 7. For example, the inner container 5 may be formed from three separate moulded pulp parts. In examples where there are multiple parts, the parts, once moulded, ay be bonded together with an adhesive. For example, the inner container 5 may be formed from the first portion 11, the second portion 12, and the third portion 13, which are all moulded as separate unitary components 7 and then bonded together with an adhesive. The adhesive bond may form the hinges.

[0082] It will be appreciated that when the inner container 5 is in its closed configuration, the first portion 11, second portion 12, and third portion 13 may fit together to form an aerosol provision device receiving space 17 that is sealed off from the outside environment. Therefore, the inner container 5 is able to prevent dust and detritus from entering into the aerosol provision device receiving space 17, and an aerosol provision device 2 received therein cannot become contaminated. Referring briefly to Fig. 5 and Fig. 7, the cover portion 6 may also comprise a first part 21, a second part 22, and a third part 23. The first part 21, second part 22, and third part 23 of the cover portion 6 may be hingedly connected together in a manner similar to that described in relation to the inner container 5. The first part 21 of the cover portion 6 may extend over and may be attached to an outer side of the first portion 11 of the inner container 5. The second part 22 of the cover portion 6 may extend over and may be attached to an outer side of the second portion 12 of the inner container 5. The third part 23 of the cover portion 6 may extend over and may be attached to an outer side of the third portion 13 of the inner container 5. A closed cavity 25 is formed between the inner container 5 and the cover portion

[0083] 6 when the cover portion 6 is attached to the inner container 5. In some embodiments, the closed cavity 25 may be an empty void. In some embodiments, the closed cavity 25 may comprise supporting material. Referring back to Fig. 5, the plane along which the portions 11-13 of the inner container 5 contact the parts 21-23 of the cover portion 6 may be referred to as the first plane A, second plane B, and third plane C, respectively. When the container 3 is in its open configuration shown in Fig. 3 and Fig. 5, all three planes will coincide and may be referred to as the main plane M of the single unitary component 7.

[0084] Referring now to Figs. 3 and 4, the first portion 11 of the inner container 5 may comprise a first embossed region 31. The first embossed region 21 of the first portion 11 may be formed by a structure protruding from a base portion 18 of the inner container 5 that extends along the first plane A, as most clearly illustrated in Fig. 5. The first embossed region 21 may comprise three walls 323-320 extending substantially perpendicularly from the first plane A. The three walls 323-320 may form at least a portion of the external walls of the container 3 when the inner container 5 is in its closed configuration. The first embossed region 31 may further comprise a fourth wall 32d extending from the first plane A. The fourth wall 32d may extend at a non-perpendicular angle to the main plane M of the single unitary component 7. The fourth wall 32c! may extend at an angle of between about 48 degrees and 49 degrees from the perpendicular. The fourth wall 32d may form an internal wall when the container 3 is in its closed configuration. That is, the fourth wall 32d may be covered by the cover portion 6 so that it is not visible when the container 3 is in its closed configuration.

[0085] In some embodiments, the fourth wall 32d may comprise a first section that extends substantially perpendicularly to the main plane A and a second section that extends at the angle to the perpendicular as previously described.

[0086] Each of the walls 32a-32d of the first portion 11 of the inner container may further comprise a shoulder 33a-33d. The shoulder 33a-33d of the walls 32a-32d may be formed between an outer section 34a-34d of each wall 32a-32d and an inner section 35a-35d of each wall 32a-32d. The shoulder 33a-33d may comprise a surface that extends between the outer section 34a-34d and the inner section 35a-35d of each wall. The shoulder 33a-33d may extend substantially parallel to the first plane A, i.e. substantially parallel to the first part 21 of the cover portion 6.

[0087] The inner sections 35a-35d may define an interlocking portion 36 of the first portion 11 of the inner container 5. The first interlocking portion 36 may extend from the shoulder 33a-33d. The first interlocking portion 36 may extend from the shoulder 33a-33d in a direction away from the first part 21 of the cover portion 6. The first interlocking portion 36 may be configured to engage with the second portion 12 of the inner container 5, as described in more detail hereinafter.

[0088] Each of the walls 32a-32d of the first portion 11 of the inner container 5 may define a generally rectangular peripheiy of a top wall 37 of the first portion 11, which is spaced from the first plane A, i.e. spaced from the first part 21 of the cover portion 6. That is, each of the inner sections 35a-35d of the walls 32a-32d forming the first interlocking portion 36 may define a generally rectangular periphery of the top wall 37 of the first portion 11.

[0089] The first portion 11 of the inner container 5 may further comprise a first recess 38. The first recess 38 may be configured to receive an aerosol provision device 2, as shown in Fig. 3. The first recess 378 may be located in the first embossed region 31 of the first portion n of the inner container. More specifically, the first recess 38 may be located in the top wall 37 of the first portion 11 of the inner container 5.

[0090] The first recess 38 may be configured to completely receive an aerosol provision device 2 therein. That is, the first recess 38 may be dimensioned such that when an aerosol provision device 2 is received therein, the aerosol provision device 2 does not protrude beyond the top wall 37 of the first portion 11 of the inner container 5.

[0091] The first recess 38 may be configured to form an interference fit with an aerosol provision device 2 to be received therein. That is, the first recess 38 may be dimensioned so that its dimensions substantially match at least one of the dimensions of the aerosol provision device 2 to be received therein. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the first recess 38 may substantially conform to the shape of the aerosol provision device 2 to be received therein.

[0092] The second portion 12 of the inner container 5 may comprise a second embossed region 41. The second embossed region 41 of the second portion 12 may be formed by a structure protruding from a base portion 18 of the inner container 5 that extends along the second plane B, as most clearly illustrated in Fig. 5. The second embossed region 41 may comprise three walls 423-420 extending substantially perpendicularly from the second plane B. The three walls 423-420 may form at least a portion of the external walls of the container 3 when the inner container 5 is in its closed configuration. The second embossed region 41 may further comprise a fourth wall 42d extending from the second plane B. The fourth wall 32d may extend at a nonperpendicular angle to the second plane B, or main plane M of the single unitary component 7. The fourth wall 42d may extend at an angle of between about 48 degrees and 49 degrees from the perpendicular. The fourth wall 42d may form an internal wall when the container 3 is in its closed configuration. That is, the fourth wall 32d may be covered by the cover portion 6 so that it is not visible when the container 3 is in its closed configuration.

[0093] In some embodiments, the fourth wall 42d may comprise a first section that extends substantially perpendicularly to the main plane B and a second section that extends at the angle to the perpendicular as previously described. Each of the walls 42a-42d of the second portion 12 of the inner container 5 may define a generally rectangular peripheiy of a top wall 47 of the second portion 12, which is spaced from the second plane B, i.e. spaced from the second part 22 of the cover portion 6.

[0094] The top wall 47 of the second embossed region 41 may comprise a second interlocking portion 46. The second interlocking portion 46 may be a recessed section. That is, the second interlocking portion 46 may be a recessed section that extends from the top wall 47 of the second embossed region 41 of the second portion 12 towards the second part 22 of the cover portion 6. The recessed section of the second interlocking portion 46 may comprise a bottom wall 49. The bottom wall 49 may be located between the top wall 47 of the second embossed region 41 and the second part 22 of the cover portion 6.

[0095] The second interlocking portion 46 may be configured to engage with the first interlocking portion 36 of the first portion 11 of the inner container 5. The second interlocking portion 46 may be configured to have substantially the same inner dimensions as the outer dimensions of the first interlocking portion 36. Therefore, first and second interlocking portions 36, 46 may form an interference fit to help keep the inner container 5 in its closed configuration. This may help to prevent unwanted opening of the inner container 5 and prevent dust and detritus entering into the inner container 5. In some embodiments, the top wall 47 of the second embossed region 41 may be equal in size and shape to the shoulder 33a-33d of the first embossed portion 31 of the first portion 11 of the inner container 5. In some embodiments, the outer periphery of the top wall 37 of the first embossed region 31 may define substantially the same ross- section as the bottom wall 49 of the recessed section of the second embossed region 41.

[0096] The second portion 12 of the inner container 5 may further comprise at least one second recess 48. The at least one second recess 48 may be configured to receive at least one aerosol provision device accessory 50, as shown in Fig. 3. The at least one second recess 48 may be located in the second embossed region 41 of the second portion 12 of the inner container 5. More specifically, the at least one second recess 48 may be located in the bottom wall 49 of the second portion 12 of the inner container 5. The at least one second recess 48 may be configured to completely receive an aerosol provision device accessory 50 therein. That is, the at least one second recess 50 may be dimensioned such that when an aerosol provision device accessory 50 is received therein, the aerosol provision device accessory 50 does not protrude beyond the bottom wall 49 of the second portion 12 of the inner container 5.

[0097] The at least one second recess 48 may be configured to form an interference fit with an aerosol provision device accessory 50 to be received therein. That is, the at least one second recess 48 may be dimensioned so that its dimensions substantially match at least one of the dimensions of the aerosol provision device accessory 50 to be received therein. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the at least one second recess 48 may substantially conform to the shape of the aerosol provision device accessory 50 to be received therein.

[0098] In some embodiments, the third portion 13 of the inner container 5 may comprise a third embossed region 51. The third embossed region 51 of the third portion 13 may be formed by a structure protruding from a base portion 18 of the inner container 5 that extends along the third plane C, as most clearly illustrated in Fig. 5. The third embossed region may have a prismal shape extending in the longitudinal direction. The third embossed region 51 may comprise four walls 52a-52d.

[0099] The first and second walls 52a, 52b at the longitudinal ends of the third embossed region 51 may extending substantially perpendicularly from the third plane C. The first and second walls 52a, 52b may form at least a portion of the external walls of the container 3 when the inner container 5 is in its closed configuration.

[0100] The third and fourth walls 52c, 52d may comprise a first section that extends perpendicularly from the third plane C and a second section that extends at an angle to the perpendicular. The second sections of the third and fourth walls 52c, 52d may extend towards each other to form an edge 53.

[0101] The third embossed region 51 of the inner container 5 may comprise a third recess 58. The third recess 58 may be configured to receive an aerosol provision device 56, such as a pen device, or another aerosol provision device accessory. The third recess

[0102] 58 may be formed in the second angled sections of third and fourth walls 52c, 52d of the third embossed region 51. The third recess 58 may extend towards the third part 23 of the cover portion 6 from the edge 53.

[0103] The third recess 58 may be configured to form an interference fit with an aerosol provision device 56 or accessory to be received therein. That is, the third recess 58 may be dimensioned so that its dimensions substantially match at least one of the dimensions of the aerosol provision device 56 or accessory to be received therein. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the third recess 58 may substantially conform to the shape of the aerosol provision device 56 or accessory to be received therein.

[0104] In some embodiments, the sum of the internal angles of the edge 53 of the third embossed region 51, the obtuse angle between the fourth wall 32d and the shoulder 33d of the first embossed region 31, and the obtuse angle between the fourth wall 42d and the top wall 47 of the second embossed region 41 may equal 360 degrees. This enables the inner container 5 to close properly, as most clearly illustrated in Fig. 2.

[0105] In some embodiments, the device or accessory to be received in the third recess 58 extends beyond the second sections of the third and fourth walls 52c, 52d. In such an embodiment, a first device accommodating recess 61 may be provided in the fourth wall 32d of the first embossed region 31 and a second device accommodating recess 62 may be provided in the fourth wall 42d of the second embossed region 41 to ensure that the inner container 5 can close properly.

[0106] Referring briefly to Fig. 6, another embodiment of the inner container 5 of the package 1 is shown. The embodiment of the inner container 5 shown in Fig. 6 is essentially the same as the embodiment of the inner container 5 previously described and so a detail description will be omitted herein. Furthermore, similar features and components of the embodiment of the inner container 4 shown in Fig. 6 will retain the same terminology and reference numerals.

[0107] The main difference between the previously described embodiment and the embodiment shown in Fig. 6 is that the embodiment shown in Fig. 6 does not comprise a third embossed region. Therefore, the fourth walls 32d, 42d of the first and second embossed regions 31, 41 may extend perpendicularly from the base portion 18 of the inner container 5. Referring now to Fig. 7, there is shown a perspective view of the cover portion 6. As previously described, the cover portion 6 may comprise first, second, and third parts 21-23. As shown in Fig. 7, one part, for example, the first part 21 of the cover portion 6 may comprise an embossed section 71. The embossed section 71 may comprise the name or logo of the product being stored within the container 3.

[0108] Furthermore, although the inner container 5 and the cover portion 6 of the container 3 have previously been described as two separate components, it will be appreciated that the inner container 5 and the cover portion 6 may be formed from a single unitary component 7 of pulp material. The pulp material may be a pulp material as previously described herein. In embodiments where the inner container 5 and cover portion 6 are formed from a single unitaiy component 7 of pulp material, the component may be formed such that each of the portions 11-13 and parts 21-23 are formed in the main plane M and then the cover portion 6 may be folded over onto the back of the inner container 5.

[0109] In some embodiments, one part, for example the third part 23, of the cover portion 6 may comprise a pocket 75. The pocket 75 may be configured to receive an information booklet for providing information about how to operate the aerosol provision device 2, etc.

[0110] Referring now to Fig. 8, the inner container 5 of the package 1 may further comprise a recess closing component 81. The recess closing component 81 may comprise a body 82 and a tab 83 extending therefrom. The recess closing component 81 may further comprise an adhesive 84. The adhesive 84 may extend about the periphery of the body 82 of the recess closing component 81.

[0111] The recess closing component 81 may be configured to adhere to the periphery of the first and / or second recess 38, 48 in the first and second portions 11, 12 of the inner container 5. The recess closing component 81 may be configured to seal closed the first and / or second recess 38, 48 in the first and second portions 11, 12 of the inner container 5. The tab 83 may be free-from adhesive and configured to provide a section of the recess closing component 81 for a consumer to pull on to remove the recess closing compartment 81 and allow access to the device and / or accessory in the recess 38, 48. In some embodiments, the first portion n of the inner container 5 comprises a recess closing component 81 and / or the second portion 12 of the inner container 5 comprises a recess closing component 81. The recess closing component 81 in the first portion 11 of the inner container 5 may be dimensioned so that its adhesive peripheiy 84 extends across the top wall 37 of the first embossed region 31. The recess closing component 81 in the second portion 12 of the inner container 5 may be dimensioned so that its adhesive periphery 84 extends around the periphery of the bottom wall 49 of the second embossed region 41. The recess closing component 81 may be comprise a translucent paper. The translucent paper may have a basis weight in the range of about 60 gsm to about no gsm.

[0112] Referring now to Fig. 9, a top view of the outer sleeve 4 is shown. The outer sleeve 4 may comprise five sections 91-95. The first and fifth sections 91, 95 may be configured to overlap each other. The fifth section 95 may be configured to be the external facing section of the outer sleeve 4. The second section 92 may be configured to overlap the second part 22 of the cover portion 6. The third section 93 may be configured to overlap the third part 23 of the cover portion 6. The fourth section 94 may be configured to overlap the first part 21 of the cover portion 6.

[0113] In some embodiments, the outer sleeve 4 may be formed from a paper material. The paper material may have a basis weight in the range of about 160 gsm to about 200 gsm. In some embodiments, the paper material may have a basis weight of about 180 gsm. In some embodiments, the paper material may be impregnated with a dye.

[0114] Therefore, colour can be imparted throughout the material rather than merely on the surface. This provides a deeper colour and prevents changes to the colour of the outer sleeve 4 in the event of scuffs or scratches during transportation. In some embodiments, the package 1 further comprises a tamper-evident means

[0115] 96. The tamper evident means 96 provides evidence of a previous attempt to open the package 1. The tamper evident means 96 may be provided in the form of a tear strip 97. The tear strip 97 may also be configured to provide an opening mechanism for the package 1. The tear strip 97 may be provided on the fifth portion 95 of the outer sleeve 4. A free-end 98 of the fifth portion 95 may be permanently adhered to the first portion 91 of the outer sleeve and the tear strip 97 may be located adjacent the free-end 98 in order to enable the remainder of the fifth portion 95 to be separated from the first portion 91 ofthe outer sleeve 4.

[0116] The various embodiments described herein are presented only to assist in understanding and teaching the claimed features. These embodiments are provided as a representative sample of embodiments only, and are not exhaustive and / or exclusive. It is to be understood that advantages, embodiments, examples, functions, features, structures, and / or other aspects described herein are not to be considered limitations on the scope of the invention as defined by the claims or limitations on equivalents to the claims, and that other embodiments may be utilised and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the claimed invention. Various embodiments of the invention may suitably comprise, consist of, or consist essentially of, appropriate combinations of the disclosed elements, components, features, parts, steps, means, etc, other than those specifically described herein. In addition, this disclosure may include other inventions not presently claimed, but which may be claimed in future. The specification includes the following clauses:

[0117] 1. A single unitaiy component of pulp material for forming a package for an aerosol provision device. 2. The component according to clause 1, wherein the single unitary component of pulp material comprises bamboo and bagasse.

[0118] 3. The component according to clause 2, wherein the single unitaiy component of pulp material further comprises at least one of wood fibre, sugar cane, wheat straw, bulrush, starch, and rice husk.

[0119] 4. The component according to clause 1 to clause 3, wherein the single unitary component of pulp material is formed from in the range of about 60% to about 70% bamboo and in the range of about 30% to about 40% bagasse. 5. The component according to clause 4 or clause 5, wherein the single unitary component of pulp material is formed from about 65% bamboo and about 35% bagasse.

[0120] 6. The component according to clause 1 to clause 5, wherein the single unitary component of pulp material is reinforced with fibres.

[0121] 7. The component according to clause 6, wherein the fibres are at least one of cotton fibres, sugar cane, or cellulose fibres. 8. The component according to clause 1 to clause 7, wherein the single unitary component of pulp material comprises a wall thickness in the range of about 0.7 mm to about 1.0 mm.

[0122] 9. The component according to clause 8, wherein the single unitary component of pulp material comprises a wall thickness of about 0.8 mm.

[0123] 10. The component according to clause 2, wherein the single unitaiy component of pulp material essentially consists of bamboo and bagasse. 11. The component according to clause 1 to clause 10, wherein the component comprises a first portion, a second portion for forming an inner container, the first and second portions being configured to be located opposite each other and seal closed an aerosol provision device receiving space in the closed position. 12. The component according to clause 11, wherein the first portion of the inner container comprises a first embossed region comprising a first recess configured to receive a device.

[0124] 13. The component according to clause 11 or clause 12, wherein the second portion of the inner container comprises a second embossed region comprising at least one second recess configured to receive a device accessory.

[0125] 14. The component according to clause 13, wherein in the closed position at least a portion of the second recess is provided opposite the first recess. 15- The component according to clause n to clause 14, wherein the inner container comprises a third portion, the first and second portions hingedly connected to opposing sides of the third portion. 16. The component according to clause 15, wherein the third portion of the inner container comprises a third embossed region comprising a third recess configured to receive a pen device.

[0126] 17. The component according to clause 15 to clause 16, wherein the component further comprises a first part, a second part, and a third part for forming a cover portion, wherein each cover the first portion, the second portion, and the third portion of the inner container, respectively.

Claims

Claims1. A package for an aerosol provision device, the package comprising: a container comprising: an inner container formed from a single unitary component of pulp material, and a cover portion; and an outer sleeve configured to extend at least partially around the container to maintain the container in a closed position.

2. The package according to claim i, wherein the single unitaiy component of pulp material comprises bamboo and bagasse.

3. The package according to claim 2, wherein the single unitary component of pulp material further comprises at least one of wood fibre, sugar cane, wheat straw, bulrush, starch, and rice husk.

4. The package according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the single unitary component of pulp material is formed from in the range of about 60% to about 70% bamboo and in the range of about 30% to about 40% bagasse.

5. The package according to claim 4 or claim 5, wherein the single unitary component of pulp material is formed from about 65% bamboo and about 35% bagasse.

6. The package according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the single unitary component of pulp material is reinforced with fibres.

7. The package according to claim 6, wherein the fibres are at least one of cotton fibres, sugar cane, or cellulose fibres.

8. The package according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the single unitaiy component of pulp material comprises a wall thickness in the range of about 0.7 mm to about 1.0 mm.

9. The package according to claim 8, wherein the single unitaiy component of pulp material comprises a wall thickness of about 0.8 mm.

10. The package according to claim 2, wherein the single unitary component of pulp material essentially consists of bamboo and bagasse.

11. The package according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the inner container comprises a first portion, and a second portion, the first and second portions being configured to be located opposite each other and seal closed an aerosol provision device receiving space in the closed position.

12. The package according to any one of the proceeding claims, wherein the first portion of the inner container comprises a first embossed region comprising a first recess configured to receive a device.

13. The package according to claim 11 or claim 12, wherein the second portion of the inner container comprises a second embossed region comprising a second recess configured to receive a device accessory14. The package according to claim 13, wherein in the closed position at least a portion of the second recess is provided opposite the first recess.

15. The package according to any one of claim 12 to claim 14, wherein the first and / or second recess comprises a translucent paper configured to adhere to the peripheiy of the first and / or second recess and close the first and / or second recess.

16. The package according to claim 15, wherein the translucent paper has a basis weight in the range of about 60 gsm to about no gsm.

17. The package according to any one of claim 11 to claim 16, wherein the inner container comprises a third portion, the first and second portions hingedly connected to opposing sides of the third portion.

18. The package according to claim 17, wherein the third portion of the inner container comprises a third embossed region comprising a third recess configured to receive a pen device.19- The package according to claim 17 or claim 18, wherein the cover comprises a first part, a second part, and a third part, which each cover the first portion, the second portion, and the third portion of the inner container, respectively.

20. The package according to claim 19, wherein the first part of the cover comprises a pocket configured to receive an information booklet.

21. The package according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the cover is formed from the same material as the single unitary component of pulp material.

22. The package according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the cover comprises a wall thickness in the range of about 0.7 mm to about 1.0 mm, preferably about 0.8 mm.

23. The package according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a closed cavity is formed between the inner container and the cover portion.

24. The package according to claim 23, wherein the closed cavity comprises supporting material.

25. The package according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the inner container and the cover portion are formed from a single unitary component of pulp material.

26. The package according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the outer sleeve is formed from a paper material.

27. The package according to claim 26, wherein the paper material has a basis weight in the range of about 160 gsm to about 200 gsm.

28. The package according to claim 27, wherein the paper material has a basis weight of about 180 gsm.

29. The package according to any one of claim 26 to claim 28, wherein the paper material is impregnated with a dye.

30. The package according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a tear strip configured to provide an opening mechanism for the package.

Images