Frame assembly for a plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles, and bundle and container containing the frame assembly

Abstract

There is provided a frame assembly for planar aerosol-generating articles, the frame assembly comprising: a plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles; and a (planar) frame defining a plurality of cavities. Each planar aerosol-generating article is disposed in a respective one of the plurality of cavities of the frame. There is also provided a bundle comprising a plurality of the frame assemblies. There is also provided a container containing the frame assembly.

Description

[0001] FRAME ASSEMBLY FOR A PLURALITY OF PLANAR AEROSOL-GENERATING ARTICLES, AND BUNDLE AND CONTAINER CONTAINING THE FRAME ASSEMBLY

[0002] The present disclosure relates to a frame assembly for a plurality of planar aerosolgenerating articles. The present disclosure also relates to a bundle comprising a plurality of said frame assemblies. The present disclosure also relates to a container containing at least one of said frame assemblies.

[0003] A typical aerosol-generating system comprises an aerosol-generating device and an aerosol-generating article comprising an aerosol-generating substrate. In use, the aerosolgenerating device is arranged to heat a heating element that is positioned near, or in contact with, the aerosol-generating substrate which causes the aerosol-generating substrate to heat up and release volatile compounds. These volatile compounds are then entrained in air that is drawn through the aerosol-generating article. As the volatile compounds cool, they condense to form an aerosol that can be inhaled by a consumer.

[0004] A typical aerosol-generating article may appear similar and have similar dimensions to a conventional cigarette. For example, such an aerosol-generating article may be substantially cylindrical and comprise an aerosol-generating substrate in addition to other components such as mouthpiece filter element and a cooling element, which are arranged in the form of a rod and wrapped in a cigarette paper.

[0005] However, a significant portion of the aerosol-generating substrate in these cylindrical aerosol-generating articles may not be sufficiently heated to form an aerosol during use. This is undesirable since the insufficiently heated portion of the aerosol-generating substrate contributes to the cost of manufacture and transport of the aerosol-generating article but does not contribute to the aerosol delivered to the consumer. Moreover, the components of these cylindrical aerosolgenerating articles normally need to have the same or very similar outer diameters so that they can be brought together, accurately positioned in axial alignment and wrapped in a cigarette paper. This can lead to increased cost and complexity of manufacture.

[0006] Planar aerosol-generating articles may be able to mitigate or overcome at least some of these disadvantages of substantially cylindrical aerosol-generating articles. However, existing methods and solutions for one or more of the manufacture, handling, and storage of substantially cylindrical aerosol-generating articles may not be suitable for planar aerosol-generating articles.

[0007] It is an objective of the present disclosure to provide a means for one or both of handling and storage of planar aerosol-generating articles. It is also objective of the present disclosure to provide such a means which can be implemented relatively efficiently and in a cost-effective fashion. It would also be desirable to provide a solution that can be implemented on existing apparatus without requiring extensive modifications.

[0008] According to the present disclosure, there is provided frame assembly for planar aerosolgenerating articles. The frame assembly comprises a plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles. The frame assembly comprises a frame defining a plurality of cavities. Each planar aerosol-generating article is disposed in a respective one of the plurality of cavities of the frame.

[0009] Advantageously, by providing the plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles in respective cavities of a frame, the aerosol-generating articles can be one or more of reliably, securely and efficiently stored and handled. For example, each cavity can provide a secure storage location for each aerosol-generating article and the frame can serve to protect the aerosolgenerating articles during use, storage and handling of the frame assembly.

[0010] Advantageously, by providing the plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles in respective cavities of a frame, the aerosol-generating articles may be more efficiently manufactured, for example, because at least part of each planar aerosol-generating article can be made in the frame during manufacture of the aerosol-generating articles. The frame may therefore serve the dual purpose of being used in both the manufacture of the aerosol-generating articles and the storage or handling of the aerosol-generating articles after manufacture. This may help to reduce waste by reducing the need for additional components for storage and handling of the aerosol-generating articles after manufacture. This can offer an improvement over known cylindrical aerosol-generating articles, which are manufactured as discrete items, which are subsequently grouped into bundles and placed inside a separate container box after their manufacture.

[0011] Advantageously, by providing a frame assembly as disclosed herein, the frame of the frame assembly may be utilised as part of the packaging for the planar aerosol-generating articles. This may help to reduce wastage of material, particularly if the frame of each frame assembly has been used during the manufacture of the planar-aerosol generating articles, because such material can be repurposed as part of the packaging for the planar aerosol-generating articles. The frame of the frame assembly may also be a particularly suitable component for packaging the planar aerosolgenerating articles, for example, due to one or more of its dimensions, shape, weight and material properties.

[0012] Each planar aerosol-generating article may have a first planar external surface. The frame may have a first planar external surface. The first planar external surface of each planar aerosolgenerating article may be substantially co-planarwith the first planar external surface of the frame. In this way, a first side of the frame assembly may be substantially planar, the first side being formed of the first planar external surfaces of the planar aerosol-generating articles and the first planar external surface of the frame. This may help the frame assembly to be more efficiently packaged and / or transported.

[0013] Each planar aerosol-generating article may have a second planar external surface. The frame may have a second planar external surface. The second planar external surface of each planar aerosol-generating article may be substantially co-planar with the second planar external surface of the frame. In this way, a second side of the frame assembly may be substantially planar, the second side being formed of the second planar external surfaces of the planar aerosol- generating articles and the second planar external surface of the frame. This may help the frame assembly to be more efficiently packaged and / or transported.

[0014] Each planar aerosol-generating article may comprise a first planar external layer. The frame may comprise a first planar external layer. The first planar external layer of each planar aerosol-generating article may be formed of the same material as the first planar external layer of the frame. This may help the frame assembly to be more efficiently manufactured, as the same material can be used for forming at least a part of the frame and the planar aerosol-generating article. The first planar external layer of each planar aerosol-generating article may be formed of a cellulosic material. The first planar external layer of the frame may be formed of a cellulosic material. The cellulosic material may be paper, cigarette paper, tobacco paper, cardboard, wood, textile, natural fibres or artificial fibres.

[0015] Where each planar aerosol-generating article comprises a first planar external surface and a first planar external layer, the first planar external surface of each planar aerosol-generating article may be formed by its respective first planar external layer.

[0016] Where the frame comprises a first planar external surface and a first planar external layer, the first planar external surface of the frame may be formed by the first planar external layer of the frame.

[0017] Each planar aerosol-generating article may comprise a second planar external layer. The frame may comprise a second planar external layer. The second planar external layer of each planar aerosol-generating article may be formed of the same material as the second planar external layer of the frame. This may help the frame assembly to be more efficiently manufactured, as the same material can be used for forming at least a part of the frame and the planar aerosolgenerating article. The second planar external layer of each planar aerosol-generating article may be formed of a cellulosic material. The second planar external layer of the frame may be formed of a cellulosic material. The cellulosic material may be paper, cigarette paper, tobacco paper, cardboard, wood, textile, natural fibres or artificial fibres.

[0018] Where each planar aerosol-generating article comprises a second planar external surface and a second planar external layer, the second planar external surface of each planar aerosolgenerating article may be formed by its respective second planar external layer.

[0019] Where the frame comprises a second planar external surface and a second planar external layer, the second planar external surface of the frame may be formed by the second planar external layer of the frame.

[0020] One or both of the first planar external surfaces and the second planar external surfaces may be particularly suited to carrying one or more indicia, for example, due to their planar nature. Said planar external surfaces may therefore carry one or more indicia, for example, one or more printed indica. This may be particularly suited when the surface is formed by a cellulosic material, such as paper, paperboard, or cardboard. The term “indicia” is used herein to refer to one or more discrete visual elements, or repeating visual elements or patterns that may provide an aesthetically pleasing or informative representation. The indicia may be in the form of text, images, letters, words, logos, patterns or a combination thereof. By way of example, the indicia may be a brand or manufacturer logo that allows the consumer to identify the type or origin of the consumer goods contained within the container. Additionally, or alternatively, the indicia may comprise an identification code, which may be associated with information regarding production, and can be used to authenticate the consumer goods.

[0021] According to the present disclosure the frame of the frame assembly defines a plurality of cavities. Each cavity may extend from an opening in a first side of the frame. This may help the planar aerosol-generating articles to be easily removed from the first side of the frame. For example, the frame assembly may be configured so that a user can insert their finger or any other guiding element through the opening in the first side of the frame and pull the planar aerosolgenerating article out of the opening in the first side of the frame.

[0022] Each cavity may extend from its respective opening in the first side of the frame to an opening in a second side of the frame. The second side of the frame may be opposed to the first side of the frame. This may help the planar aerosol-generating articles to be easily removed from either of the first side of the frame and the second side of the frame. For example, the frame assembly may be configured so that a user can insert their finger or any other guiding element through the opening in the second side of the frame and push the planar aerosol-generating article out of the opening in the first side of the frame.

[0023] The opening in the second side of the frame for each cavity may have a profile substantially corresponding to the profile of the corresponding planar aerosol-generating article disposed in the cavity. The opening in the first side of the frame for each cavity may have a profile substantially corresponding to the profile of the corresponding planar aerosol-generating article disposed in the cavity.

[0024] Each cavity may extend from an opening in a third side of the frame. The third side of the frame may be orthogonal to the first side of the frame. With such arrangements, the opening in the first side of the frame may be an opening in which a user can interact with the planar aerosolgenerating article to move the planar aerosol-generating article in the cavity. The opening in the third side of the frame may be an opening through which the planar aerosol-generating article can be removed from the cavity. For example, the frame assembly may be configured so that a user can insert their finger or any other guiding element through the opening in the first side of the frame and slide the planar aerosol-generating article out of the opening in the third side of the frame.

[0025] The frame may further comprise a cavity wall for each cavity. The cavity wall may extend from the opening in the first side of the frame. The cavity wall may extend around the entire periphery of the corresponding planar aerosol-generating article within the cavity. This may help to better protect and / or secure the planar aerosol-generating articles during one or more of use, storage and handling of the frame assembly. Each cavity and its respective planar aerosol-generating article may be shaped and sized to define an access void within the cavity. The access void may be an empty space within the cavity where the planar aerosol-generating article does not reside. The access void may be configured to assist with removal of the planar aerosol generating article from the cavity.

[0026] Each access void may be located at a first end of its respective cavity. Each access void may be smaller in volume than the corresponding planar aerosol-generating article in the cavity. Each access void may have a volume of no more than 50 percent of the volume of the corresponding planar aerosol-generating article in the cavity. Each access void may have a volume of no more than 30 percent of the volume of the corresponding planar aerosol-generating article in the cavity. Each access void may have a volume of at least 5 percent of the volume of the corresponding planar aerosol-generating article in the cavity. Each access void may have a volume of at least 10 percent of the volume of the corresponding planar aerosol-generating article in the cavity.

[0027] The plurality of cavities of the frame may be distributed in an array across the frame. The array may comprise at least two rows and at least two columns. Such a distributed arrangement may be efficient from one or more of a manufacturing and storage perspective.

[0028] Each planar aerosol-generating article may be sized and shaped to fit snugly within its respective cavity. This may allow the planar aerosol-generating articles to be held within their cavities by friction fit. The friction fit may be between each aerosol-generating article and one or more cavity walls of each respective cavity.

[0029] Each cavity of the frame of the frame assembly may comprise one or more bridging elements. The one or more bridging elements of each cavity may assist with securing the corresponding planar aerosol-generating articles in the cavities.

[0030] Each bridging element may attach the frame to the planar aerosol-generating article in its respective cavity. Each bridging element may be configured to be separable to permit the removal of its respective planar aerosol-generating article from its respective cavity. Therefore, the one or more bridging elements may be configured to prevent the planar aerosol-generating articles from being removed from the cavities, but also configured to separate in response to an external force so as to permit removal of the planar aerosol-generating articles. For example, the one or more bridging elements may be configured to tear in response to an external force.

[0031] The one or more bridging elements of a cavity may be defined by a line of perforations extending around at least a portion of the periphery of the planar aerosol-generating article in the cavity. The line of perforations may delimit at least a portion of the periphery of the cavity.

[0032] The one or more bridging elements of each cavity may consist of a single bridging element disposed at the first end of their respective cavity.

[0033] At least part of the one or more bridging elements of a cavity may be formed from the same material as at least part of one or both of the frame and the planar aerosol-generating articles. At least part of the one or more bridging elements may therefore be manufactured at the same time as at least part of one or both of the frame and the planar aerosol-generating articles. This may help to improve one or both of the efficiency and cost of manufacture of the frame assembly.

[0034] The one or more bridging elements may consist of a plurality of bridging elements. In some embodiments, the one or more bridging elements consists of two, four or six bridging elements. In some embodiments, the plurality of bridging elements for each cavity may be disposed on opposing sides of the planar aerosol-generating article in said cavity. For example, in embodiments where the one or more bridging elements consists of two bridging elements, these two bridging elements may be arranged so that one of the bridging elements is disposed on one side of the planar aerosol-generating article in the cavity, and the other of the two bridging elements is disposed on another opposed side of the corresponding planar aerosol-generating article. Asimilar arrangement may be provided where there are four or six bridging elements, namely whereby two or three bridging elements are disposed on either side of the planar aerosol-generating article. Such features may help the planar aerosol-generating articles to be securely held within the cavities (for example during one or both of transport and storage), yet also easily removable from the cavities by an authorized user when the authorized user wishes to use the planar aerosolgenerating articles.

[0035] In some embodiments, the bridging elements may comprise multiple bridging elements on one side of a corresponding planar aerosol-generating article and multiple bridging elements on another opposed side of the corresponding planar aerosol-generating article. Such features may help the planar aerosol-generating articles to be securely held within the cavities (for example during one or both of transport and storage), yet also easily removable from the cavities by an authorized user when the authorized user wishes to use the planar aerosol-generating articles.

[0036] In some embodiments, the bridging elements may be disposed closer to a first end of the cavity than a second end of a cavity. Put another way, the bridging elements may be positioned off-centre with respect to a length of the cavity. Such features may help the planar aerosolgenerating articles to be securely held within the cavities (for example during one or both of transport and storage), yet also easily removable from the cavities by an authorized user when the authorized user wishes to use the planar aerosol-generating articles.

[0037] In some embodiments, the frame assembly comprises one or more of the features described above regarding multiple bridging elements in combination with one or more of the features described above regarding an opening in a third side of the frame. For example, in some embodiments, a cavity of the frame assembly comprises a plurality of bridging elements and an opening in the third side of the frame, through which the planar aerosol-generating article of the cavity may pass. The plurality of bridging elements may be located closer to the end of the cavity at the third side of the frame than an opposed side of the cavity. The plurality of bridging elements may be disposed on opposed sides of the planar aerosol-generating article in the cavity.

[0038] In such embodiments, the frame assembly may further comprise one or both of a first and a second enclosing element as described in more detail below. In such embodiments, the bridging elements of each cavity may be covered by the enclosing element. This may result in the enclosing elements preventing the bridging elements from being visible to a user from their respective side of the frame assembly. The user may therefore not be able to directly touch the bridging elements in such embodiments. Instead, the user may need to apply a force to the portion of the planar aerosol-generating article that is visible, in order to sever the bridging elements and thus allow the planar aerosol-generating article to be removed from the frame assembly, for example by sliding the planar aerosol-generating article out of the opening in the third side of the frame.

[0039] The frame assembly may further comprise a protective layer extending over a first side of the frame and a corresponding first side of the plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles. The protective layer may be affixed to at least a portion of the frame, for example, by one or more portions of adhesive.

[0040] The protective layer may be affixed to each of the plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles. For example, the container may further comprise a plurality of portions of adhesive on an inner surface of the protective layer. The plurality of portions of adhesive may be positioned adjacent to a respective cavity of the plurality of cavities such that protective layer is attached to the plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles by the adhesive.

[0041] The protective layer may help to protect the planar aerosol-generating articles when they are held within the frame, for example during one or both of storage and transportation of the frame assembly.

[0042] The protective layer may be completely removable from the rest of the frame assembly. For example, a user may be able to remove the entire protective layer when they wish to access one or more of the planar aerosol-generating articles held within the frame.

[0043] The protective layer may comprise a plurality of separable portions. Each separable portion may overly a respective cavity and planar aerosol-generating article of the frame assembly.

[0044] Each separable portion may be configured to be moved away from its respective cavity and planar aerosol-generating article to permit or enhance access to the planar aerosol-generating article disposed in its respective cavity. The separable portion may be moved away by way of one or both of tearing and peeling. For example, each separable portion may be configured to be torn away from an adjacent portion of the protective layer at its respective cavity and planar aerosolgenerating article to permit or enhance access to the planar aerosol-generating article disposed in its respective cavity. As a further example, each separable portion may be configured to be peeled away from the remainder of the frame assembly at its respective cavity and planar aerosolgenerating article to permit or enhance access to the planar aerosol-generating article disposed in its respective cavity.

[0045] In some embodiments, the separable portion may have a first end which overlies a first end of its respective cavity. The first end of the cavity may have an access void as described above. In such embodiments, the access void may help to improve how a user can grip the separable portion at the first end of the cavity and move it away from its respective cavity and planar aerosol-generating article. In particular, the access void may provide an empty space underneath the separable portion so that it is easier for a user to interact with. In some embodiments, the first end of the cavity extends from an opening in a third side of the frame as described above. This can help to further enhance the way a user can interact with the separable portion at the first end of the cavity. In particular, in such embodiments, the user may be able to access an underside of the separable portion by way of the opening in the third side of the frame. This may allow the user to more easily grip both sides of the separable portion, and thus more easily move the separable portion away from its respective cavity.

[0046] The protective layer may further comprise a resealable adhesive configured to releasably seal each of the plurality of separable portions.

[0047] The protective layer may comprise a plurality of perforation lines each perforation line corresponding to a respective one of the separable portions and delimiting at least a portion of the periphery of said respective separable portion. The plurality of perforation lines may assist with tearing of each separable portion.

[0048] The protective layer may comprise a moisture barrier layer. The moisture barrier layer may comprise a metalized layer, such as a layer of metalized paper. The moisture barrier layer may comprise a polymeric material layer. This may help the protective layer to better protect the freshness of the planar aerosol-generating articles. The protective layer may comprise a first layer of cellulosic material defining a first outer surface of the protective layer; a second layer of cellulosic material defining a second outer surface of the protective layer; and a moisture barrier disposed between the first layer of cellulosic material and the second layer of cellulosic material.

[0049] The protective layer may be a first protective layer, and the frame assembly may further comprise a second protective layer, the second protective layer extending over a second side of the frame and a corresponding second side of the plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles. The second protective layer may be particularly advantageous when the frame comprises a plurality of openings on its second side, each opening corresponding to one of the plurality of cavities. The second protective layer may have any feature or combination of features of those features described above with respect to the protective layer.

[0050] The first layer may extend over the entirety of the first side of the frame and the corresponding first side of the plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles. The second layer may extend over the entirety of the second side of the frame and the corresponding second side of the plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles.

[0051] The protective layer may be particularly suited to carrying one or more indicia, for example, if the protective layer is planar in nature. Said protective layer may therefore carry one or more indicia, for example, one or more printed indica. This may be particularly suited when the protective layer is formed by a cellulosic material, such as paper, paperboard, or cardboard.

[0052] The protective layer may be a single element which extends over the first side of all of the cavities and the plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles disposed therein. The protective layer may comprise multiple elements (such as multiple strips), each extending over one or more openings and plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles on the first side of the frame. For example, where the plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles are arranged in an array within the frame, the protective layer may comprise a first strip extending over a first set of aligned cavities of the array and a second strip extending over a second set of aligned cavities of the array.

[0053] The frame assembly may further comprise an enclosing element affixed to a first side of the frame, the enclosing element being configured prevent the plurality of planar aerosolgenerating articles from being removed from their respective cavities at the first side of the frame. The enclosing element may be configured to partially cover a plurality of openings on the first side of the frame, where each opening corresponds to a respective cavity of the frame. In this way, the enclosing element may help to prevent the plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles from being removed from their respective cavities yet still enable a user to touch the planar aerosol-generating articles. This may be advantageous if a user wishes to use the openings on the first side of the frame to interact with the planar aerosol-generating articles, such as by pushing or sliding them, whilst not allowing the planar aerosol-generating articles to inadvertently fall out of the openings on the first side of the frame.

[0054] The enclosing element may be a planar sheet having a plurality of apertures defined therein. Each aperture in the sheet may overly a respective one of the openings on the first side of the frame. One or more of the size, shape and relative position of the apertures and the openings may be configured such that the plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles are prevented from being removed from their respective cavities through the apertures of the enclosing element.

[0055] The enclosing element may be made from or comprise a cellulosic material. The cellulosic material may comprise a sheet of cellulosic material. The cellulosic material may comprise cellulose fibres. The cellulosic material may be paper, paperboard, or cardboard. The enclosing element may be made entirely from a cellulosic material.

[0056] The enclosing element may be a first enclosing element and the frame assembly further comprises a second enclosing element affixed to a second side of the frame, the second enclosing element being configured prevent the plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles from being removed from their respective cavities at the second side of the frame.

[0057] The second enclosing element may be configured to partially cover a plurality of openings on the second side of the frame, where each opening on the second side of the frame corresponds to a respective cavity of the frame.

[0058] The second enclosing element may be a planar sheet having a plurality of apertures defined therein. Each aperture in the sheet may overly a respective one of the openings on the second side of the frame. One or more of the size, shape and relative position of the apertures and the openings may be configured such that the plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles are prevented from being removed from their respective cavities through the apertures of the second enclosing element. The second enclosing element may be made from or comprise a cellulosic material. The cellulosic material may comprise a sheet of cellulosic material. The cellulosic material may comprise cellulose fibres. The cellulosic material may be paper, paperboard, or cardboard. The second enclosing element may be made entirely from a cellulosic material.

[0059] One or both of the first planar enclosing element and the second enclosing element may be particularly suited to carrying one or more indicia, for example, if said elements are planar in nature. Said enclosing elements may therefore carry one or more indicia, for example, one or more printed indica. This may be particularly suited when the enclosing element is formed by a cellulosic material, such as paper, paperboard, or cardboard.

[0060] The following passages describe preferred features of the planar aerosol-generating article, including various layers, components and surfaces which the planar aerosol-generating article may have. These features are described in respect of a single planar aerosol-generating article; however, it will be appreciated that they can be applied to two or more of the plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles held within the frame assembly of the present disclosure. Furthermore, it will be appreciated that where features, such as layers, components and surfaces are described below in respect of a planar aerosol-generating article of the frame assembly, the present disclosure contemplates embodiments where the frame of the frame assembly also comprises a corresponding feature to those features described below in respect of a planar aerosol-generating article. For example, if the planar aerosol-generating article is said to comprise a layer, the frame of the frame assembly may also comprise a layer corresponding to said layer of the planar aerosol-generating article. The frame assembly and the plurality of planar aerosolgenerating article may therefore share one or more common layers, materials and dimensions as described below.

[0061] The planar aerosol-generating article may comprise one or more aerosol-generating substrates.

[0062] The planar aerosol-generating article may be a substantially flat aerosol-generating article or a substantially planar aerosol-generating article. In particular, a thickness of the planar aerosolgenerating article may less than 50 percent of both a length and a width of the planar aerosolgenerating article. Advantageously, a smaller thickness may provide a small temperature gradient or difference across the thickness of the aerosol-generating substrate during heating.

[0063] The planar aerosol-generating article may have a length extending in an x-direction. The planar aerosol-generating article may have a width extending in a y-direction. The planar aerosolgenerating article may have a thickness extending in a z-direction.

[0064] The planar aerosol-generating article may have a quadrilaterally-faced hexahedron shape. One or more corners of said quadrilaterally-faced hexahedron shape may be rounded. The planar aerosol-generating article may have a rectangular prism shape. The planar aerosol-generating article may have a cuboid shape. The planar aerosol-generating article may have a cylindrical shape. The planar aerosol-generating article may have a right-angled cylinder shape. The planar aerosol-generating article may have a laminated structure, for example the planar aerosol-generating article may comprise or be formed from at least two layers. In particular, the planar aerosol-generating article may comprise at least two of: a first external layer, a second external layer, a frame, a first frame layer, a second frame layer, a third frame layer, a first aerosolgenerating substrate layer, and a second aerosol-generating substrate layer as discussed in more detail below.

[0065] Substantially the entirety of the planar aerosol-generating article, excluding the one or more aerosol-generating substrates (if present) and (if present) adhesive, may be paper or cardboard.

[0066] The planar aerosol-generating article may have a cellulose acetate content of less than 5 percent. The planar aerosol-generating article may have a cellulose acetate content of less than 3 percent. The planar aerosol-generating article may have a cellulose acetate content of less than 1 percent.

[0067] The frame of the planar aerosol-generating article may be a planar frame.

[0068] The frame of the planar aerosol-generating article may define a frame aperture extending through the thickness of the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article. The frame aperture may define or form the airflow passage of the planar aerosol-generating article. The frame aperture may define or form the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article. For example, the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a hollow cuboid shape or a square hollow tube shape. As a further example, the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a crosssection that is annular in shape, preferably the cross-section in an x / y plane is annular in shape.

[0069] The frame of the planar aerosol-generating article may comprise a frame outer surface. The frame outer surface may extend in a transverse direction, for example between the first planar external surface and the second planar external surface. The frame outer surface may at least partially define or form one or more external surfaces of the planar aerosol-generating article. For example, the frame outer surface may at least partially define or form one or more external walls of the planar aerosol-generating article. The frame outer surface may circumscribe or encircle the frame aperture. The frame outer surface may circumscribe or encircle the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article.

[0070] The frame of the planar aerosol-generating article may comprise a frame inner surface. The frame inner surface may extend in a transverse direction, for example between the first planar external surface and the second planar external surface. The frame inner surface may define or form a frame aperture outer wall. The frame inner surface may define or form a cavity outer wall. The frame inner surface may circumscribe or encircle the frame aperture extending through the thickness of the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article. The frame inner surface may circumscribe or encircle the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article.

[0071] The frame outer surface may circumscribe or encircle the frame inner surface. The frame inner surface and the frame outer surface may be concentric with one another. The planar aerosol-generating article may comprise one or more external walls extending between the first planar external surface and the second planar external surface. The one or more external walls may collectively define an entire transverse external area of the planar aerosolgenerating article. The frame of the planar aerosol-generating article may at least partially define each of the one or more external walls. The one or more external walls may circumscribe or encircle the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article. The frame may define at least 60 percent, at least 70 percent, at least 80 percent, or at least 90 percent of the entire transverse external area of the planar aerosol-generating article.

[0072] The frame of the planar aerosol-generating article may comprise a peripheral wall. The peripheral wall may circumscribe or encircle at least a portion of the frame aperture extending through the thickness of the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article. The peripheral wall may circumscribe or encircle at least a portion of the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article. The peripheral wall may circumscribe or encircle the frame aperture extending through the thickness of the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article. The peripheral wall may circumscribe or encircle the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article.

[0073] The peripheral wall may be defined or formed by the frame outer surface and the frame inner surface. The peripheral wall may at least partially define or form one or more external surfaces or walls of the planar aerosol-generating article. The peripheral wall may define or form a frame aperture outer wall. The peripheral wall may define or form a cavity outer wall.

[0074] The peripheral wall may have a radial thickness. The radial thickness may be defined as the minimum distance between the frame outer surface and the frame inner surface, such as in the x / y plane.

[0075] The peripheral wall may have a radial thickness greater than or equal to 0.5 millimetres. The peripheral wall may have a radial thickness greater than or equal to 1.5 millimetres. The peripheral wall may have a radial thickness greater than or equal to 2.5 millimetres.

[0076] The peripheral wall may have a radial thickness less than or equal to 3.5 millimetres. The peripheral wall may have a radial thickness less than or equal to 2.5 millimetres.

[0077] The peripheral wall may have a radial thickness between 0.5 millimetres and 3.5 millimetres. The peripheral wall may have a radial thickness between 0.5 millimetres and 2.5 millimetres.

[0078] Advantageously, the peripheral wall having a radial thickness between 0.5 millimetres and 3.5 millimetres has been found to provide good structural strength for the planar aerosol-generating article whilst not using excess amounts of material which may increase manufacturing costs, and may limit the amount of heat that is undesirably transferred to the frame of the planar aerosolgenerating article rather than the aerosol-generating substrate.

[0079] The frame of the planar aerosol-generating article may be made from or comprise a biodegradable material. The frame of the planar aerosol-generating article may be made entirely from a biodegradable material. The frame of the planar aerosol-generating article may be made from or comprise a cellulosic material. The cellulosic material may comprise a sheet of cellulosic material. The cellulosic material may comprise cellulose fibres. The cellulosic material may be paper, paperboard, or cardboard. The frame of the planar aerosol-generating article may be made from or comprise a plant material, such as tobacco. The frame of the planar aerosol-generating article may be made entirely from a cellulosic material.

[0080] The planar aerosol-generating article may comprise one or more susceptor materials. The frame of the planar aerosol-generating article may comprise one or more susceptor materials. The one more susceptor materials may be in thermal contact with the aerosol-generating substrate. The one more susceptor materials may be in thermal contact with the cavity of the planar aerosolgenerating article. The one or more susceptor materials may be incorporated within the material of the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article. For example, the one or more susceptor material may be incorporated within the peripheral wall of the frame of the planar aerosolgenerating article.

[0081] The one or more susceptor materials may be one or more particles, strips, threads, or wires of susceptor material. The one or more susceptor materials may be one or more sheets or layers of susceptor material. The one of more sheets or layers of susceptor material may be in the form of a mesh of susceptor material.

[0082] The susceptor material, in whatever form, may comprise one or more materials selected from the list consisting of: aluminium, iron and iron alloys, nickel and nickel alloys, cobalt alloys, stainless steel alloys, copper alloys, carbon, expanded carbon, and graphite.

[0083] The frame of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a thickness greater than or equal to 50 percent of the thickness of the planar aerosol-generating article. The frame of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a thickness greater than or equal to 70 percent of the thickness of the planar aerosol-generating article. The frame of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a thickness greater than or equal to 90 percent of the thickness of the planar aerosol-generating article. The frame of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a thickness greater than or equal to 95 percent of the thickness of the planar aerosol-generating article.

[0084] The frame of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a thickness less than or equal to 95 percent of the thickness of the planar aerosol-generating article. The frame of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a thickness less than or equal to 90 percent of the thickness of the planar aerosol-generating article. The frame of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a thickness less than or equal to 70 percent of the thickness of the planar aerosol-generating article.

[0085] The frame of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a thickness between 50 percent of the thickness of the planar aerosol-generating article and 95 percent of the thickness of the planar aerosol-generating article. The frame of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a thickness between 70 percent of the thickness of the planar aerosol-generating article and 95 percent of the thickness of the planar aerosol-generating article.

[0086] The frame of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a thickness greater than or equal to 1 millimetre, greater than or equal to 2 millimetres, greater than or equal to 3 millimetres, or greater than or equal to 4 millimetres. The frame of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a thickness less than or equal to 5.5 millimetres, less than or equal to 4.5 millimetres, less than or equal to 3.5 millimetres, less than or equal to 2.5 millimetres, or less than or equal to 1 .5 millimetres. The frame of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a thickness between 1 millimetre and 5.5 millimetres. Preferably, the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a thickness between 1 .5 millimetres and 5.5 millimetres.

[0087] The frame of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a length that is equal to the length of the planar aerosol-generating article. The frame of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a length that is at least 90 percent of the length of the planar aerosol-generating article. The frame of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a length that is at least 95 percent of the length of the planar aerosol-generating article.

[0088] The frame of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a width that is equal to the width of the planar aerosol-generating article. The frame of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a width that is at least 90 percent of the width of the planar aerosol-generating article.

[0089] The frame of the planar aerosol-generating article may be a unitary component. Alternatively, the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article may comprise two or more layers. That is, the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a laminated structure. Advantageously, the properties of each layer may be individually optimised depending on the relative distance between the layer and aerosol-generating substrate or heater of the aerosolgenerating device.

[0090] The frame of the planar aerosol-generating article may comprise a first frame layer and a second frame layer. The first frame layer and the second frame layer may be the only layers of the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article. That is, the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article may comprise no more than two layers or may comprise exactly two layers. The frame aperture may be defined through both the first frame layer and the second frame layer.

[0091] The frame of the planar aerosol-generating article may comprise a first frame layer, a second frame layer and a third frame layer. The second frame layer may be positioned between the first frame layer and the third frame layer. The first frame layer, the second frame layer and the third frame layer may be the only layers of the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article. That is, the frame may comprise no more than three layers or may comprise exactly three layers.

[0092] The one or more aerosol-generating substrates may comprise an aerosol-generating substrate layer. Advantageously, the aerosol-generating substrate layer can be made thin and, therefore, quickly heat up and release volatile compounds to form an aerosol. Advantageously, the aerosol-generating substrate layer can be positioned close to a heater of an aerosol-generating device.

[0093] The aerosol-generating substrate layer may comprise an aerosol-generating material. The aerosol-generating material may be any aerosol-generating material described herein. The aerosol-generating material may be in the form of a sheet of aerosol-generating material. The sheet of aerosol-generating material may be any sheet of aerosol-generating material described herein. The aerosol-generating substrate layer may be, and may be made entirely of, a sheet of aerosol-generating material.

[0094] The aerosol-generating substrate layer may be positioned between the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article and the first planar external surface. The aerosol-generating substrate layer may be positioned between the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article and the second planar external surface. The aerosol-generating substrate layer may be in physical contact with, and may be bonded to, the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article.

[0095] The aerosol-generating substrate layer may be positioned between the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article and the outer wrapper. The outer wrapper is discussed in more detail below. The aerosol-generating substrate layer may in physical contact with, and may be bonded to, both the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article and the outer wrapper.

[0096] The aerosol-generating substrate layer may be positioned between the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article and the first planar external layer. The aerosol-generating substrate layer may be positioned between the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article and the second planar external layer. The first planar external layer and the second planar external layer are discussed in more detail below. The aerosol-generating substrate layer may in physical contact with, and may be bonded to, both the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article and the first planar external layer. The aerosol-generating substrate layer may in physical contact with, and may be bonded to, both the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article and the second planar external layer.

[0097] The aerosol-generating substrate layer may overlie an end of the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article. The aerosol-generating substrate layer may define or form a wall of the cavity, such as the first cavity end wall or the second cavity end wall. Advantageously, the aerosolgenerating substrate layer may therefore be in, or at least partially define or form, the airflow passage thereby allowing released volatile compounds to quickly form an aerosol.

[0098] The one or more aerosol-generating substrates may comprise a first aerosol-generating substrate layer and a second aerosol-generating substrate layer. Advantageously, a first and a second aerosol-generating substrate layer may allow rapid generation of a satisfactory volume of aerosol compared with using a single aerosol-generating substrate layer.

[0099] The first aerosol-generating substrate layer may comprise an aerosol-generating material. The aerosol-generating material may be any aerosol-generating material described herein. The aerosol-generating material may be in the form of a sheet of aerosol-generating material. The sheet of aerosol-generating material may be any sheet of aerosol-generating material described herein. The first aerosol-generating substrate layer may be, and may be made entirely of, a sheet of aerosol-generating material.

[0100] The second aerosol-generating substrate layer may comprise an aerosol-generating material. The aerosol-generating material may be any aerosol-generating material described herein. The aerosol-generating material may be in the form of a sheet of aerosol-generating material. The sheet of aerosol-generating material may be any sheet of aerosol-generating material described herein. The second aerosol-generating substrate layer may be, and may be made entirely of, a sheet of aerosol-generating material.

[0101] The first aerosol-generating substrate layer may be positioned between the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article and the first planar external surface. The first aerosol-generating substrate layer may be in physical contact with, and may be bonded to, the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article.

[0102] The first aerosol-generating substrate layer may be positioned between the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article and the outer wrapper. The first aerosol-generating substrate layer may in physical contact with, and may be bonded to, both the frame of the planar aerosolgenerating article and the outer wrapper.

[0103] The first aerosol-generating substrate layer may be positioned between the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article and the first planar external layer. The first aerosol-generating substrate layer may in physical contact with, and may be bonded to, both the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article and the first planar external layer.

[0104] The second aerosol-generating substrate layer may be positioned between the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article and the second planar external surface. The second aerosolgenerating substrate layer may be in physical contact with, and may be bonded to, the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article.

[0105] The second aerosol-generating substrate layer may be positioned between the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article and the outer wrapper. The second aerosol-generating substrate layer may in physical contact with, and may be bonded to, both the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article and the outer wrapper.

[0106] The second aerosol-generating substrate layer may be positioned between the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article and the second planar external layer. The second aerosolgenerating substrate layer may in physical contact with, and may be bonded to, both the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article and the second planar external layer.

[0107] The first aerosol-generating substrate layer and the second aerosol-generating substrate layer may overlie opposing ends of the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article. The first aerosol-generating substrate layer and the second aerosol-generating substrate layer may define or form opposing end walls of the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article. That is, the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article, the first aerosol-generating substrate layer and the second aerosol-generating substrate layer may collectively define the cavity of the planar aerosolgenerating article.

[0108] One or more of the aerosol-generating substrate layer, the first aerosol-generating substrate layer and the second aerosol-generating substrate layer may have a thickness greater than or equal to 100 micrometres, greater than or equal to 200 micrometres, greater than or equal to 300 micrometres, greater than or equal to 400 micrometres, or greater than or equal to 500 micrometres.

[0109] One or more of the aerosol-generating substrate layer, the first aerosol-generating substrate layer and the second aerosol-generating substrate layer may have a thickness less than or equal to 600 micrometres, less than or equal to 500 micrometres, less than or equal to 400 micrometres, less than or equal to 300 micrometres, or less than or equal to 300 micrometres.

[0110] One or more of the aerosol-generating substrate layer, the first aerosol-generating substrate layer and the second aerosol-generating substrate layer may have a thickness between 100 micrometres and 600 micrometres, between 200 micrometres and 500 micrometres, between 200 micrometres and 400 micrometres, or between 200 micrometres and 300 micrometres.

[0111] The aerosol-generating substrate layer may have a length substantially the same as the length of the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article. The aerosol-generating substrate layer may have a length substantially the same as the length of the planar aerosol-generating article.

[0112] The first aerosol-generating substrate layer may have a length substantially the same as the length of the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article. The first aerosol-generating substrate layer may have a length substantially the same as the length of the planar aerosolgenerating article.

[0113] The second aerosol-generating substrate layer may have a length substantially the same as the length of the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article. The second aerosol-generating substrate layer may have a length substantially the same as the length of the planar aerosolgenerating article.

[0114] The aerosol-generating substrate layer may have a width substantially the same as the width of the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article. The aerosol-generating substrate layer may have a width substantially the same as the width of the planar aerosol-generating article.

[0115] The first aerosol-generating substrate layer may have a width substantially the same as the width of the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article. The first aerosol-generating substrate layer may have a width substantially the same as the width of the planar aerosolgenerating article.

[0116] The second aerosol-generating substrate layer may have a width substantially the same as the width of the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article. The second aerosol-generating substrate layer may have a width substantially the same as the width of the planar aerosolgenerating article. The first planar external surface may be a planar upper surface and the second planar external surface may be a planar lower surface. The first planar external surface may be positioned parallel to the second planar external surface. The first planar external surface may extend in the x / y plane. The second planar external surface may extend in the x / y plane. The second planar external surface may be spaced from the first planar external surface in the z-direction or transverse direction. The distance between the first planar external surface and the second planar external surface in the z-direction or transverse direction may define the thickness of the planar aerosol-generating article.

[0117] The planar aerosol-generating article may comprise an outer wrapper. The outer wrapper may be hydrophobic. The outer wrapper may comprise a hydrophobic material.

[0118] The outer wrapper may define or form the first planar external surface. The outer wrapper may define or form the second planar external surface. The outer wrapper may define or form both the first planar external surface and the second planar external surface.

[0119] The outer wrapper may circumscribe or encircle the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article. The outer wrapper may be in physical contact with, and may be bonded to, the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article. The outer wrapper may overlie opposing ends of the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article. The outer wrapper may define or form opposing end walls of the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article, such as the first cavity end wall and the second cavity end wall. That is, the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article and the outer wrapper may collectively define the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article.

[0120] The outer wrapper may circumscribe or encircle the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article and the aerosol-generating substrate layer. The outer wrapper may be in physical contact with, and may be bonded to, both the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article and the aerosol-generating substrate layer.

[0121] The outer wrapper may circumscribe or encircle the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article, the first aerosol-generating substrate layer and the second aerosol-generating substrate layer. The outer wrapper may be in physical contact with, and may be bonded to, both the first aerosol-generating substrate layer and the second aerosol-generating substrate layer.

[0122] The planar aerosol-generating article may comprise a first planar external layer and a second planar external layer. The first planar external layer may be an upper layer and the second planar external layer may be a lower layer.

[0123] The first planar external layer may define or form the first planar external surface. The first planar external layer may extend in the x / y plane. The second planar external layer may define or form the second planar external surface. The second planar external layer may extend in the x / y plane.

[0124] The first planar external layer may be in physical contact with, and may be bonded to, the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article. The first planar external layer may overlie an end of the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article. The first planar external layer may define or form a wall of the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article, such as the first cavity end wall.

[0125] The second planar external layer may be in physical contact with, and may be bonded to, the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article. The second planar external layer may overlie an end of the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article. The second planar external layer may define or form a wall of the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article, such as the second cavity end wall.

[0126] The first planar external layer and the second planar external layer may overlie opposing ends of the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article. The first planar external layer and the second planar external layer may define or form opposing end walls of the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article, such as the first cavity end wall and the second cavity end wall. That is, the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article, the first planar external layer and the second planar external layer may collectively define the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article.

[0127] The first planar external layer may be spaced, such as in a transverse direction, from the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article. For example, the aerosol-generating substrate layer or the first aerosol-generating substrate layer may be positioned between the first planar external layer and the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article. The first planar external layer may be in physical contact with, and may be bonded to, the aerosol-generating substrate layer or the first aerosol-generating substrate layer.

[0128] The second planar external layer may be spaced, such as in a transverse direction, from the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article. For example, the aerosol-generating substrate layer or the second aerosol-generating substrate layer may be positioned between the second planar external layer and the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article. The second planar external layer may be in physical contact with, and may be bonded to, the aerosol-generating substrate layer or the second aerosol-generating substrate layer.

[0129] The first planar external layer may be hydrophobic. The first planar external layer may comprise a hydrophobic material. The second planar external layer may be hydrophobic. The second planar external layer may comprise a hydrophobic material.

[0130] One or more of the outer wrapper, the first planar external layer and the second planar external layer may comprise, or be made from, a cellulosic material. The cellulosic material may be paper, cigarette paper, tobacco paper, cardboard, wood, textile, natural fibres or artificial fibres.

[0131] One or more of the outer wrapper, the first planar external layer and the second planar external layer may be an aerosol-generating substrate comprising an aerosol-generating material. The aerosol-generating material may be any aerosol-generating material described herein. In particular, the aerosol-generating material may be in the form of a sheet of aerosol-generating material. The sheet of aerosol-generating material may be any sheet of aerosol-generating material described herein. Alternatively, one or more of the outer wrapper, the first planar external layer and the second planar external layer may not comprise any aerosol-generating material, particularly in embodiments comprising an aerosol-generating substrate layer, a first aerosolgenerating substrate layer, a second aerosol-generating substrate layer or an aerosol-generating substrate positioned within the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article. One or more of the outer wrapper, the first planar external layer and the second planar external layer may be substantially nicotine-free.

[0132] One or more of the outer wrapper, the first planar external layer and the second planar external layer may have a thickness greater than or equal to 25 micrometres, greater than or equal to 30 micrometres, greater than or equal to 35 micrometres, greater than or equal to 40 micrometres, or greater than or equal to 45 micrometres.

[0133] One or more of the outer wrapper, the first planar external layer and the second planar external layer may have a thickness less than or equal to 55 micrometres, less than or equal to 50 micrometres, less than or equal to 45 micrometres, less than or equal to 40 micrometres, or less than or equal to 35 micrometres.

[0134] One or more of the outer wrapper, the first planar external layer and the second planar external layer may have a thickness between 25 micrometres and 55 micrometres, between 25 micrometres and 45 micrometres, or between 30 micrometres and 45 micrometres.

[0135] One or more of the outer wrapper, the first planar external layer and the second planar external layer may have a length substantially the same as the length of the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article. One or more of the outer wrapper, the first planar external layer and the second planar external layer may have a length substantially the same as the length of the planar aerosol-generating article.

[0136] One or more of the first planar external layer and the second planar external layer may have a width substantially the same as the width of the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article. One or more of the first planar external layer and the second planar external layer may have a width substantially the same as the width of the planar aerosol-generating article.

[0137] The cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a thickness greater than or equal to 0.5 millimetres. The cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a thickness greater than or equal to 1.5 millimetres. The cavity may have a thickness greater than or equal to 2.5 millimetres. The cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a thickness greater than or equal to 3.5 millimetres.

[0138] The cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a thickness less than or equal to 4.5 millimetres. The cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a thickness less than or equal to 3.5 millimetres. The cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a thickness less than or equal to 2.5 millimetres. The cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a thickness less than or equal to 1 .5 millimetres.

[0139] The cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a thickness between 0.5 millimetres and 4.5 millimetres. The cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a thickness between 1 millimetre and 4.5 millimetres. Preferably, the cavity of the planar aerosolgenerating article may have a thickness between 2.8 millimetres and 3.3 millimetres.

[0140] The cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a length greater than or equal to 14 millimetres. The cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a length equal to a greater than 18 millimetres. The cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a length greater than or equal to 22 millimetres. The cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a thickness greater than or equal to 30 millimetres. The cavity of the planar aerosolgenerating article may have a thickness greater than or equal to 38 millimetres.

[0141] The cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a length less than or equal to 40 millimetres. The cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a thickness less than or equal to 34 millimetres. The cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a thickness less than or equal to 28 millimetres. The cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a thickness less than or equal to 22 millimetres. The cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a thickness less than or equal to 18 millimetres.

[0142] The cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a length between 14 millimetres and 40 millimetres. The cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a length between 14 millimetres and 34 millimetres. The cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a length between 24 millimetres and 28 millimetres.

[0143] The cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a width greater than or equal to 4.5 millimetres. The cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a width greater than or equal to 7 millimetres. The cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a width greater than or equal to 11 millimetres.

[0144] The cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a width less than or equal to 13 millimetres. The cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a width less than or equal to 11 millimetres. The cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a width less than or equal to 7 millimetres. The cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a width less than or equal to 5 millimetres.

[0145] The cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a width between 4.5 millimetres and 13 millimetres. The cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a width between 7 millimetres and 10 millimetres. The cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a width between 7.5 millimetres and 8.5 millimetres.

[0146] The cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a length between 14 millimetres and 40 millimetres, a width between 4.5 millimetres and 13 millimetres, and a thickness between 0.5 millimetres and 4.5 millimetres.

[0147] Preferably, the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a length between 20 millimetres and 30 millimetres, a width between 7 millimetres and 10 millimetres, and a thickness between 2.5 millimetres and 4 millimetres. Most preferably, the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a length of 26 millimetres, a width of 8 millimetres, and a thickness of 3.1 millimetres.

[0148] The cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a volume of greater than or equal to 30 cubic millimetres, greater than or equal to 100 cubic millimetres, greater than or equal to 300 cubic millimetres, greater than or equal to 500 cubic millimetres, greater than or equal to 700 cubic millimetres, greater than or equal to 900 cubic millimetres, greater than or equal to 1000 cubic millimetres, greater than or equal to 2000 cubic millimetres, or greater than or equal to 30 cubic millimetres.

[0149] The cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a volume of less than or equal to 3500 cubic millimetres, less than or equal to 2500 cubic millimetres, less than or equal to 1500 cubic millimetres, less than or equal to 1000 cubic millimetres, less than or equal to 800 cubic millimetres, less than or equal to 600 cubic millimetres, less than or equal to 500 cubic millimetres, less than or equal to 400 cubic millimetres, or less than or equal to 300 cubic millimetres.

[0150] The cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a volume between 30 cubic millimetres and 3500 cubic millimetres. The cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a volume between 30 cubic millimetres and 2500 cubic millimetres. The cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a volume between 100 cubic millimetres and 1500 cubic millimetres. The cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may have a volume between 100 cubic millimetres and 1000 cubic millimetres.

[0151] The cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may be substantially empty.

[0152] The one or more aerosol-generating substrates may comprise an aerosol-generating substrate positioned within the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article. The aerosolgenerating substrate positioned within the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may fill the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article.

[0153] The aerosol-generating substrate positioned within the cavity of the planar aerosolgenerating article may comprise an aerosol-generating material. The aerosol-generating material may be any aerosol-generating material described herein. For example, the aerosol-generating material may be in the form of shredded aerosol-generating material.

[0154] The aerosol-generating material may be in the form of a sheet of aerosol-generating material. The sheet of aerosol-generating material may be any sheet of aerosol-generating material described herein. For example, the sheet of aerosol-generating material may be a sheet of homogenised tobacco material.

[0155] The sheet of aerosol-generating material may extend the entire length of the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article. The sheet of aerosol-generating material may extend the entire width of the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article.

[0156] The sheet of aerosol-generating material may be a gathered sheet of aerosol-generating material. That is, the sheet of aerosol-generating material may be convoluted, folded, or otherwise compressed or constricted substantially perpendicular to the transverse direction of the planar aerosol-generating article.

[0157] The sheet of aerosol-generating material may be a crimped sheet of aerosol-generating material. The sheet of aerosol-generating material may be a corrugated sheet of aerosolgenerating material. The crimped sheet of aerosol-generating material or the corrugated sheet of aerosol-generating material may comprise a plurality of parallel corrugations. For example, the crimped sheet of aerosol-generating material may comprise a plurality of substantially parallel peaks and troughs.

[0158] The plurality of parallel corrugations may be defined by a corrugation profile, in which the corrugation profile is sinusoidal, or triangular, or rectangular, or trapezoidal, or toroidal, or parabolic.

[0159] The plurality of parallel corrugations may define, or form, a plurality of channels between the sheet of aerosol-generating material and one or more walls of the cavity of the planar aerosolgenerating article. The plurality of channels may be a plurality of longitudinally extending channels. The plurality of channels may be a plurality of laterally extending channels. The plurality of channels may defined, or form, at least a portion of the airflow passage extending between the air inlet and air outlet of the planar aerosol-generating article.

[0160] The aerosol-generating material may comprise one or more organic materials such as tobacco, mint, tea and cloves. The aerosol-generating material may comprise one or more of: herb leaf, tobacco leaf, fragments of tobacco ribs, reconstituted tobacco, homogenised tobacco such as cast leaf, extruded tobacco, expanded tobacco, aerosol-generating films and gel compositions.

[0161] The aerosol-generating material may be in the form of shredded aerosol-generating material. The shredded aerosol-generating material may comprise one or more of: strips and strands of aerosol-generating material, such as strips and strands of tobacco or homogenised tobacco material. The shredded aerosol-generating material may be in the form of a shredded sheet of homogenised tobacco material.

[0162] The aerosol-generating material may be cut filler. The aerosol-generating material may be tobacco cut filler. As used herein, the term “cut filler” is used to describe to a blend of shredded plant material, such as tobacco plant material, including, in particular, one or more of leaf lamina, processed stems and ribs, homogenised plant material.

[0163] The aerosol-generating material may be in the form of a sheet of aerosol-generating material. As used herein, the term “sheet” describes a laminar element having a width and length substantially greater than the thickness thereof. The sheet of aerosol-generating material may be a sheet of plant material. The sheet of aerosol-generating material may be a sheet of tobacco material. The sheet of aerosol-generating material may be a sheet of homogenised tobacco material, such as a cast leaf sheet.

[0164] The aerosol-generating material may comprise one or more aerosol-formers. Suitable aerosol-formers are well known in the art and include, but are not limited to, one or more aerosol- formers selected from: polyhydric alcohols, such as propylene glycol, polyethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, 1 , 3-butanediol and glycerine; esters of polyhydric alcohols, such as glycerol mono-, di- or triacetate; and aliphatic esters of mono-, di- or polycarboxylic acids, such as dimethyl dodecanedioate and dimethyl tetradecanedioate. It may be particularly preferable for the aerosolformer to be or comprise one or both of glycerine and propylene glycol. The aerosol former may consist of glycerine or propylene glycol or of a combination of glycerine and propylene glycol.

[0165] The aerosol-generating material may have an aerosol-former content greater than or equal to 1 , 2, 5, 10, or 15 percent by weight on a dry weight basis. The aerosol-generating material may have an aerosol-former content greater than or equal to 15 percent by weight on a dry weight basis, for example greater than 20 by weight on a dry weight basis, or greater than 25 by weight on a dry weight basis, or greater than 30 by weight on a dry weight basis, or greater than 40 by weight on a dry weight basis, or greater than 50 by weight on a dry weight basis.

[0166] The aerosol-generating material may have an aerosol-former content less than or equal to 30 percent by weight on a dry weight basis, less than or equal to 25 percent by weight on a dry weight basis, or less than or equal to 20 percent by weight on a dry weight basis.

[0167] The aerosol-generating material may have an aerosol-former content between 5 percent and 30 percent by weight on a dry weight basis, between 5 percent and 25 percent by weight on a dry weight basis, or between 5 percent and 20 percent by weight on a dry weight basis.

[0168] The aerosol-generating material may have an aerosol-former content between 10 percent and 30 percent by weight on a dry weight basis, between 10 percent and 25 percent by weight on a dry weight basis, or between 10 percent and 20 percent by weight on a dry weight basis.

[0169] The aerosol-generating material may comprise nicotine. The aerosol-generating material may comprise natural nicotine, or synthetic nicotine, or a combination of natural nicotine and synthetic nicotine.

[0170] The aerosol-generating material may comprise at least 0.5 percent by weight of nicotine, at least 1 percent by weight of nicotine, at least 1.5 percent by weight of nicotine, or at least 2 percent by weight of nicotine. That is, the aerosol-generating material may have a nicotine content of at least 0.5 percent by weight, at least 1 percent by weight, at least 1 .5 percent by weight, or at least 2 percent by weight.

[0171] The aerosol-generating material may be in the form of a plurality of beads. The plurality of beads may have an average particle diameter of between 0.1 mm and 4 mm, for example between 0.5 mm and 4 mm.

[0172] The term “bead” refers to a discrete, solid particle formed of the aerosol-generating substrate. A bead may have a rounded, typically spherical, form. Other terms may be used to define the substrate such as, for example, “granule”.

[0173] Providing the aerosol-generating material as a plurality of beads may provide certain advantages. Beads can be easily handled compared to other aerosol-forming substrates such as fine powders or cut filler. The beads flow easily, and so can reliably and consistently fill the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article during manufacture. This may allow a consistent and reproducible amount of aerosol-forming substrate to be loaded into each article during manufacture. Beads may also be cleaner to handle than powders and cut fillers, which may cause dust in factories, and may leak from planar aerosol-generating articles in transit or in use. By selecting beads with appropriate bead sizes and appropriate particle size distributions, air flow through the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article may be controlled more reproducibly than would be the case for, say, a cut filler substrate.

[0174] Where a particle is not perfectly spherical, but a diameter of the particle is referred to, the term “diameter” may refer to a largest dimension of the particle. Alternatively, the term “diameter” may refer to the diameter of a perfectly spherical particle having the same volume as the not perfectly spherical particle.

[0175] The term “average particle diameter”, as used herein, may refer to a number average particle diameter. Other methods of determining average particle diameter are known. Thus, the average particle diameter may be, for example, a volume average particle diameter.

[0176] The aerosol-generating material may be in form of a wrapped body of aerosol-generating material, the wrapped body comprising a wrapper at least partially enclosing aerosol-generating material.

[0177] The wrapped body of aerosol-generating material may occupy between 15% and 100% of the interior volume of the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article. The wrapped body of aerosol-generating material may occupy between 30% and 100% of the interior volume of the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article. The wrapped body of aerosol-generating material may occupy between 50% and 100% of the interior volume of the cavity of the planar aerosolgenerating article. The wrapped body of aerosol-generating material may occupy between 50% and 80% of the interior volume of the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article. The wrapped body of aerosol-generating material may occupy between 50% and 70% of the interior volume of the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article.

[0178] The air inlet may be defined by a front wall of the planar aerosol-generating article. The air inlet may be defined by, and may extend through, the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article. The air inlet may be defined by the peripheral wall of the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article. The air inlet may extend through the peripheral wall of the frame of the planar aerosolgenerating article. The air outlet may be defined by a back wall of the planar aerosol-generating article. The air outlet may be defined by, and may extend through, the frame of the planar aerosolgenerating article. The air outlet may be defined by the peripheral wall of the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article. The outlet may extend though the peripheral wall of the frame of the planar aerosol-generating article.

[0179] The air inlet may have a round cross-section, a circular cross-section, an oval crosssection, a square cross-section, or a rectangular cross-section. The air outlet may have a round cross-section, a circular cross-section, an oval cross-section, a square cross-section, or a rectangular cross-section.

[0180] The air inlet may be defined by, and may extend through, the first planar external surface. The air inlet may be defined by, and may extend through, the outer wrapper. The air inlet may be defined by, and may extend through, the outer wrapper and the aerosol-generating substrate layer. The air inlet may be defined by, and may extend through, the outer wrapper and the first aerosolgenerating substrate layer. The air inlet may be defined by, and may extend through, the first planar external layer and the aerosol-generating substrate layer. The air inlet may be defined by, and may extend through, the first planar external layer and the first aerosol-generating substrate layer.

[0181] The air inlet may be defined by, and may extend through, the second planar external surface. The air inlet may be defined by, and may extend through, the outer wrapper and the second aerosol-generating substrate layer. The air inlet may be defined by, and may extend through, the second planar external layer and the aerosol-generating substrate layer. The air inlet may be defined by, and may extend through, the second planar external layer and the second aerosol-generating substrate layer.

[0182] The air outlet may be defined by, and may extend through, the first planar external surface. The air outlet may be defined by, and may extend through, the outer wrapper. The air outlet may be defined by, and may extend through, the outer wrapper and the aerosol-generating substrate layer. The air outlet may be defined by, and may extend through, the outer wrapper and the first aerosol-generating substrate layer. The air outlet may be defined by, and may extend through, the first planar external layer and the aerosol-generating substrate layer. The air outlet may be defined by, and may extend through, the first planar external layer and the first aerosol-generating substrate layer.

[0183] The air outlet may be defined by, and may extend through, the second planar external surface. The air outlet may be defined by, and may extend through, the outer wrapper and the second aerosol-generating substrate layer. The air outlet may be defined by, and may extend through, the second planar external layer and the aerosol-generating substrate layer. The air outlet may be defined by, and may extend through, the second planar external layer and the second aerosol-generating substrate layer.

[0184] One or both of the air inlet and the air outlet may have an equivalent diameter greater than or equal to 0.1 millimetres, greater than or equal to 0.4 millimetres, greater than or equal to 0.7 millimetres, or greater than or equal to 1.0 millimetres.

[0185] One or both of the air inlet and the air outlet may have an equivalent diameter less than or equal to 3 millimetres, less than or equal to 2.7 millimetres, less than or equal to 2.4 millimetres, less than or equal to 2.1 millimetres. The air inlet may have an equivalent diameter less than or equal to 2.7 millimetres, less than or equal to 1.8 millimetres, or less than or equal to 1.5 millimetres. One or both of the air inlet and the air outlet may have an equivalent diameter between 0.1 millimetres and 3 millimetres, between 0.1 millimetres and 2.4 millimetres, between 0.4 millimetres and 2.1 millimetres, between 0.4 millimetres and 1.8 millimetres, between 0.7 millimetres and 1.5 millimetres, or between 1.0 millimetres and 1.5 millimetres.

[0186] The air inlet may have a width less than a width of the cavity of the planar aerosolgenerating article. The air outlet may have a width less than a width of the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article. The air inlet may have a thickness less than a thickness of the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article. The air outlet may have a thickness less than a thickness of the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article.

[0187] One or both of the air inlet and the air outlet may a width of between 0.3 millimetres and 3 millimetres or between 0.5 millimetres and 2 millimetres.

[0188] One or both of the air inlet and the air outlet may have a thickness of between 0.3 millimetres and 3 millimetres or between 0.5 millimetres and 2 millimetres.

[0189] Preferably, the air inlet may have a width of between 0.3 millimetres and 3 millimetres, and a thickness of between 0.3 millimetres and 3 millimetres.

[0190] Preferably, the air outlet may have a width of between 0.3 millimetres and 3 millimetres, and a thickness of between 0.3 millimetres and 3 millimetres.

[0191] Advantageously, a planar aerosol-generating article having an air outlet or air inlet with a width of between 0.3 millimetres and 3 millimetres and a thickness of between 0.3 millimetres and 3 millimetres may provide for a relatively large inlet or outlet opening while allowing for improved retention of the aerosol-generating substrate within the planar aerosol-generating article. Improved retention of the aerosol-generating substrate within the planar aerosol-generating article may reduce the risk of aerosol-generating substrate falling out of the planar aerosol-generating article.

[0192] A ratio of the width of the air inlet to the thickness of the air inlet may be between 0.33 and 3. A ratio of the width of the air inlet to the thickness of the air inlet may be between 0.5 and 1 .5. A ratio of the width of the air inlet to the thickness of the air inlet may be between 0.75 and 1 .25.

[0193] A ratio of the width of the air outlet to the thickness of the air outlet may be between 0.33 and 3. A ratio of the width of the air outlet to the thickness of the air outlet may be between 0.5 and 1 .5. A ratio of the width of the air outlet to the thickness of the air outlet may be between 0.75 and 1.25.

[0194] The planar aerosol-generating article may comprise a plurality of air inlets. One or each of the air inlets may have one or more of the features of the air inlet described herein.

[0195] The planar aerosol-generating article may comprise a plurality of air outlets. One or each of the air outlets may have one or more of the features of the air outlet described herein.

[0196] The planar aerosol-generating article may comprise a filter element positioned downstream of the aerosol-forming substrate. The planar aerosol-generating article may comprise a filter element positioned downstream of the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article. The planar aerosol-generating article may comprise a filter element at least partially positioned within the air outlet. The planar aerosol-generating article may comprise a filter element positioned within, and may be positioned at a downstream end of, the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article.

[0197] The planar aerosol-generating article may comprise a filter element positioned upstream of the aerosol-forming substrate. The planar aerosol-generating article may comprise a filter element positioned upstream of the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article. The planar aerosol-generating article may comprise a filter element at least partially positioned within the air inlet. The planar aerosol-generating article may comprise a filter element positioned within, and may be positioned at an upstream end of, the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article.

[0198] The filter element may comprise one or more segments of a fibrous filtration material. Suitable fibrous filtration materials would be known to the skilled person. The filter element may comprise a cellulose acetate.

[0199] A ratio between the length and the thickness of the planar aerosol-generating article, and between the width and the thickness of the planar aerosol-generating article may be greater than 2:1 , greater than 5:1 , greater than 10:1 , greater than 12:1 , or greater than 15:1.

[0200] A ratio between the length and the thickness of the planar aerosol-generating article, and between the width and the thickness of the planar aerosol-generating article may be less than 15:1 , less than 12:1 , less than 10:1 , less than 5:1 , or less than 2.5:1

[0201] A ratio between the length and the thickness of the planar aerosol-generating article, and between the width and the thickness of the planar aerosol-generating article may be between 2:1 and 15:1 , between 2:1 and 12:1 , between 2:1 and 10:1 , or between 5:1 and 10:1.

[0202] A ratio between the length and the width of the planar aerosol-generating article may be greater than 1 :1 , greater than 2:1 , greater than 3:1 , greater than 4:1 , or greater than 5:1.

[0203] A ratio between the length and the width of the planar aerosol-generating article may be less than 10:1 , less than 8:1 , less than 5:1 , less than 4:1 , less than 3:1 , or less than 2:1.

[0204] A ratio between the length and the width of the planar aerosol-generating article may be between 1 :1 and 10:1 , between 1 :1 and 5:1 , between 1 :1 and 4:1 , between 1 :1 and 3:1 , between 2:1 and 4:1 , or between 2:1 and 3:1.

[0205] The planar aerosol-generating article may have a length greater than or equal to 15 millimetres, greater than or equal to 20 millimetres, greater than or equal to 25 millimetres, greater than or equal to 30 millimetres, greater than or equal to 35 millimetres, or greater than or equal to 40 millimetres.

[0206] The planar aerosol-generating article may have a length less than or equal to 45 millimetres, less than or equal to 40 millimetres, less than or equal to 35 millimetres, or less than or equal to 30 millimetres.

[0207] The planar aerosol-generating article may have a length between 15 millimetres and 45 millimetres, between 20 millimetres and 40 millimetres, between 20 millimetres and 35 millimetres, or between 25 millimetres and 30 millimetres. The planar aerosol-generating article may have a width equal to greater than 3 millimetres, greater than 5 millimetres, greater than 7.5 millimetres, greater than 9 millimetres, greater than 11 millimetres, or greater than 13 millimetres.

[0208] The planar aerosol-generating article may have a width less than or equal to 17 millimetres, less than or equal to 15 millimetres, less than or equal to 12.5 millimetres, less than or equal to 11 millimetres, or less than or equal to 9 millimetres.

[0209] The planar aerosol-generating article may have a width between 3 millimetres and 17 millimetres, between 5 millimetres and 15 millimetres, between 7.5 millimetres and 12.5 millimetres, or between 9 millimetres and 11 millimetres.

[0210] The planar aerosol-generating article may have a thickness equal to greater than 1 millimetre, greater than or equal to 1.5 millimetres, greater than or equal to 2 millimetres, greater than or equal to 2.5 millimetres, greater than or equal to 3 millimetres, greater than or equal to 3.5 millimetres, greater than or equal to 4 millimetres, or greater than or equal to 4.5 millimetres.

[0211] The planar aerosol-generating article may have a thickness less than or equal to 5.5 millimetres, less than or equal to 5 millimetres, less than or equal to 4.5 millimetres, less than or equal to 4 millimetres, less than or equal to 3.5 millimetres, less than or equal to 3 millimetres, less than or equal to 2.5 millimetres, or less than or equal to 2 millimetres.

[0212] The planar aerosol-generating article may have a thickness between 1 millimetres and 5 millimetres, between 1.5 millimetres and 5 millimetres, between 2 millimetres and 4.5 millimetres, between 2.5 millimetres and 4 millimetres, or between 3 millimetres and 3.5 millimetres.

[0213] According to the present disclosure, there is provided an aerosol-generating device for receiving a planar aerosol-generating article as disclosed herein. The aerosol-generating device comprises a device cavity dimensioned to receive at least a portion of the planar aerosolgenerating article. The aerosol-generating device comprises a heater or heating means, a power source for supplying power to the heater or heating means, and a controller to control a supply of power to the heater or heating means. The aerosol-generating device is configured to heat at least one of the one or more aerosol-generating substrates to form an aerosol, for example an inhalable aerosol. The aerosol-generating device may be configured to heat each of the one or more aerosolgenerating substrates to form an aerosol, for example an inhalable aerosol.

[0214] According to the present disclosure, an aerosol-generating system comprises an aerosolgenerating device as disclosed herein and a planar aerosol-generating article as disclosed herein. The system may comprise a plurality of such articles for use with the aerosol-generating device.

[0215] The frame of the frame assembly as disclosed herein may have a length extending in an x-direction, a width extending in a y-direction, and a thickness extending in a z-direction.

[0216] The thickness of the frame may be less than 50 percent of both the length and the width of the frame. The thickness of the frame may be less than 30 percent of both the length and the width of the frame. The thickness of the frame may be less than 10 percent of both the length and the width of the frame. The frame of the frame assembly may have a quadrilaterally-faced hexahedron shape. The frame of the frame assembly may have a rectangular prism shape. The frame of the frame assembly may have a cuboid shape. The frame of the frame assembly may have a right-angled cylinder shape.

[0217] The frame of the frame assembly may have a laminated structure, for example the frame of the frame assembly may comprise or be formed from at least two layers. In particular, the frame of the frame assembly may comprise at least two of: a first external layer, a second external layer, a frame, a first frame layer, a second frame layer, a third frame layer, a first aerosol-generating substrate layer, and a second aerosol-generating substrate layer as discussed in more detail below. The frame of the frame assembly may have the same number of layers an aerosolgenerating article disposed within one of the cavities of the frame.

[0218] According to the present disclosure, there is provided a bundle comprising a plurality of frame assemblies as disclosed herein. The bundle may comprise at least three, at least four or at least five frame assemblies held together by a connecting element. The connecting element may be removable from the bundle to permit or enhance access to at least one frame assembly of the bundle. The connecting element may be a wrapper wrapped around the frame assemblies.

[0219] Advantageously, by providing a bundle comprising a plurality of frame assemblies as disclosed herein, the frame of each frame assembly may be utilised as part of the packaging for the planar aerosol-generating articles. This may help to reduce wastage of material, particularly if the frame of each frame assembly has been used during the manufacture of the planar-aerosol generating articles, because such material can be repurposed as part of the packaging for the planar aerosol-generating articles. The frame of each frame assembly may also be a particularly suitable component for packaging the planar aerosol-generating articles, for example, due to one or more of its dimensions, shape, weight and material properties.

[0220] The frame of each frame assembly of the bundle may comprise a through-hole for receiving a connecting element for connecting the plurality of frame assemblies together. The through-holes of the frames may be arranged so as to align with each other when the frame assemblies are brought together.

[0221] The bundle may further comprise a connecting element configured to extend through the through-holes of the frame assemblies to connect the plurality of frame assemblies together. The connecting element comprises one or more of: a split ring; a deformable rod; a clip; and a screw.

[0222] According to the present disclosure, there is provided a container of planar aerosolgenerating articles, the container comprising: a frame assembly as disclosed herein; and an outer housing at least partially enclosing the frame assembly.

[0223] The outer housing may comprise at least a first wall overlying a first side of the frame assembly. The outer housing may comprise a plurality of walls enclosing the frame assembly. The first wall may be affixed to the first side of the frame assembly, for example by one or more portions of adhesive. The first wall may be affixed to the first side of the frame of the frame assembly, for example by one or more portions of adhesive.

[0224] The container may further comprise a plurality of portions of temporary adhesive on an inner surface of the first wall. The plurality of portions of temporary adhesive may be positioned adjacent to a respective cavity of the plurality of cavities to allow each of the plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles to be attached to and detached from the inner surface of the first wall.

[0225] The first wall may be a major wall of the outer housing.

[0226] The outer housing may further comprise a second wall and at least one hinge line disposed between the first wall and the second wall. The second wall may be configured to be moved relative to the first wall about the at least one hinge line between: a first position, in which the second wall is positioned opposite to the first wall to inhibit access to the frame assembly; and a second position, in which the second wall has been moved away from the first wall to enhance access to the frame assembly.

[0227] Advantageously, by providing a container having first and second opposed walls configured to move relative to one another about at least one hinge line, the outer housing can form an effective protective enclosure for the planar aerosol-generating articles in the frame assembly, whilst also enabling one or both of an efficient use of space in the container and an efficient use of material for forming the container.

[0228] The second wall may be a major wall of the outer housing. The second wall may have substantially the same size and shape as the first wall of the outer housing.

[0229] The outer housing may further comprise a third wall. The third wall may extend from the first wall to the second wall to connect the first wall with the second wall.

[0230] The third wall of the outer housing may be connected to one of the first wall and the second wall of the outer housing by the at least one hinge line.

[0231] The third wall of the outer housing may comprise a first panel and a second panel. The at least one hinge line may comprise a first hinge line connecting the first panel of the third wall to the second panel of the third wall. The first wall of the outer housing may be connected to the first panel of the third wall of the outer housing. The second wall of the outer housing may be connected to the second panel of the third wall of the outer housing.

[0232] The third wall of the outer housing may further comprise a third panel. The at least one hinge line may comprise a second hinge line connecting the second panel of the third wall to the third panel of the third wall. The first hinge line and the second hinge line may therefore provide the container with two points at which the second wall can be moved relative to the first wall between the first and second positions.

[0233] The third wall of the outer housing may further comprise a fourth panel. The at least one hinge line may comprise a third hinge line connecting the third panel of the third wall to the fourth panel of the third wall. The first hinge line, the second hinge line and the third hinge line may therefore provide the container with three points at which the second wall can be moved relative to the first wall between the first and second positions.

[0234] The second wall of the outer housing may be connected to the third panel of the third wall of the outer housing.

[0235] The third wall of the outer housing may be orthogonal to one or both of the first wall and the second wall of the outer housing, when the second wall of the outer housing is in the first position. The third wall may be a minor wall of the outer housing.

[0236] The outer housing may further comprise at least one panel configured to form a fourth wall of the outer housing, when the second wall is in the first position with respect to the first wall. The fourth wall may be positioned opposite to the third wall. The fourth wall may be a minor wall of the outer housing.

[0237] The at least one panel forming the fourth wall may comprise a panel connected to the first wall or the second wall. For example, the at least one panel forming the fourth wall may comprise a first panel connected to the first wall and a second panel connected to the second wall, the first panel and the second panel overlapping to form the fourth wall of the outer housing when the second wall is in the first position with respect to the first wall.

[0238] The outer housing may further comprise a tab and a corresponding slot configured to interact with one another to hold the second wall in the first position with respect to the first wall. The tab may extend from the at least one panel forming the fourth wall. For example, the tab may extend from the first panel connected to the first wall or the second panel connected to the second wall.

[0239] A portion of the outer surface of the container may be provided by at least one minor face of the frame assembly, more preferably by two or three minor faces of the frame assembly.

[0240] The frame assembly in the container may be a first frame assembly and the container may further comprise at least a second frame assembly as disclosed herein. The first frame assembly or the second frame assembly may be configured to abut at least one other frame assembly in the container. The first frame assembly and the second frame assembly may be configured to abut one another in the container.

[0241] The second wall of the outer housing may overlie a first side of the second frame assembly. The second wall of the outer housing may be affixed to the first side of the second frame assembly for example by one or more portions of adhesive. The second wall may be affixed to the first side of the frame of the second frame assembly, for example by one or more portions of adhesive.

[0242] The container may further comprise a third frame assembly disposed between the first frame assembly and the second frame assembly. The third frame assembly may be affixed to the third wall of the outer housing, for example by one or more portions of adhesive. The third frame assembly may be affixed to the second panel of the third wall of the outer housing, for example by one or more portions of adhesive. The first wall of the outer housing may comprise two overlapping panels. The first wall of the outer housing may comprise a first wall inner panel and a first wall outer panel, which overlap when the laminar blank is folded.

[0243] The second wall of the outer housing may comprise two overlapping panels. The second wall of the outer housing may comprise a second wall inner panel and a second wall outer panel, which overlap when the laminar blank is folded.

[0244] The fourth wall of the outer housing may comprise two overlapping panels. The fourth wall of the outer housing may comprise a fourth wall inner panel and a fourth wall outer panel, which overlap when the laminar blank is folded.

[0245] Where the second wall of the outer housing comprises a second wall inner panel and a second wall outer panel, said panels may not be directly attached to one another. For example, the second wall inner panel may depend from the fourth wall inner panel. The second wall outer panel may depend from the fourth wall outer panel. The fourth wall inner panel may depend from the fourth wall outer panel. Put another way, one or both of the fourth wall panels may connect the second wall inner panel to the second wall outer panel.

[0246] As noted above, the outer housing may further comprise a tab. The tab may extend from the first wall. The tab may be created by a cut line, which extends from a fold line positioned between and adjacent to the first wall inner panel and the first wall outer panel. The cut line may be substantially u-shaped. This can mean that the tab may be initially part of the first wall inner panel, but becomes separated and delimited from the first wall inner panel by way of the cut line. This may result in an efficient use of material.

[0247] The outer housing and laminar blank for forming the outer housing may comprise at least one connecting portion separated and delimited from the first wall inner panel by way of a respective cut line. The at least one connecting portion may be a plurality of connecting portions, such as a first connecting portion and second connecting portion having respective cut lines.

[0248] The at least one connecting portion may be affixed to the fourth wall of the outer housing. The at least one connecting portion may therefore at least temporarily affix the first wall of the outer housing to the fourth wall of the outer housing. For example, the at least one connecting portion may be affixed to the fourth wall of the outer housing by way of an adhesive. The at least one connecting portion may be affixed to the fourth wall inner panel of the outer housing.

[0249] The portion of the laminar blank which adjoins the at least one connecting portion to the first wall outer panel may be configured as a line of weakness in the laminar blank to allow the at least one connecting portion to be separated from the first wall outer panel when a user wishes to open the container for the first time. In particular, this line of weakness may take the form of a perforation line to allow these respective portions of the laminar blank to be torn away from one another. The at least one connecting portion may therefore function as a tamper indicator for the container. Thus, in some embodiments, it is preferable for the container to have a tamper indicator, the tamper indicator being provided by two or more adjoining walls of the outer housing, such as the first wall and the fourth wall of the outer hosing.

[0250] As noted above, the outer housing may further comprise a tab. The tab may extend from the first wall. The tab may be configured to interact with a corresponding slot in a fourth wall of the outer housing. The slot may be formed by a gap between edges of panels of the fourth wall, such as a fourth wall inner panel and a fourth wall outer panel. The slot may be formed by a cut out in a panel of the fourth wall, such as a fourth wall outer panel. This may help the slot to be more readily identifiable for a user. The tab and slot arrangement may be configured to allow the container to be held in a closed position. The tab and slot arrangement can allow for the container to be repeatedly reclosed during use of the container.

[0251] The container may further comprise a fifth wall. The fifth wall may be formed from a single panel. The fifth wall may be orthogonal to each of the first wall, second wall, third wall and fourth wall of the outer housing.

[0252] The outer housing may further comprise a joining flap or joining panel depending from a distal end of the panel forming the fifth wall. This joining panel may be configured to overlap with the second wall of the container. For example, the joining panel may be configured to underlie a second wall, and more specifically underlie a second wall inner panel of the outer housing. The joining panel may be affixed (for example by an adhesive) to the second wall. This may have the effect of (at least temporarily) affixing the fifth wall of the outer housing to the second wall of the outer housing. The joining panel may therefore help to keep the container in the closed position after initial manufacture of the container.

[0253] The portion of the outer hosing which adjoins the fifth wall panel to the joining panel may be configured as a line of weakness to allow the fifth wall to be separated from the second wall when a user wishes to open the container. In particular, this line of weakness may take the form of a perforation line to allow these respective portions of the outer housing to be torn away from one another. For example, the line of weakness for the joining panel may comprise multiple large cuts. The joining panel and fifth wall may therefore provide the container with a tamper indicator.

[0254] Alternatively or additionally, the portion of the outer housing which adjoins the fifth wall panel to the first wall may be configured as a line of weakness to allow the fifth wall to be separated from the first wall when a user wishes to open the container. In particular, this line of weakness may take the form of a perforation line to allow these respective portions of the laminar blank to be torn away from one another. For example, the line of weakness for the joining panel may comprise multiple large cuts. The fifth wall may therefore provide the container with a tamper indicator.

[0255] By having the combination of a line of weakness for the fifth wall and line of weakness for the joining panel, the fifth wall may be entirely removable from the container. The fifth wall may be discarded after removal. This arrangement for the fifth wall may therefore allow the container to be securely held in a tamper-proof closed condition, whilst also ensuring the fifth wall does not become problematic for a user after opening of the container. The outer housing may comprise: a box portion at least partially containing the frame assembly; and a lid portion. The box portion may have an access opening, and the lid portion may be configured to move between: a closed position, in which the lid portion covers the access opening; and an open position, in which one or more planar aerosol-generating articles of the frame assembly can be removed through the access opening. The frame assembly may be fully removable from the outer housing, for example through the access opening of the box portion when the lid portion is in the open position. The frame of the frame assembly may be fixed to the box portion, such that the one or more planar aerosol-generating articles need to be removed from the frame of the frame assembly in order for said one or more planar aerosol-generating articles to be removed from the outer housing.

[0256] The outer housing having the box portion and lid portion may comprise a plurality of frame assemblies as disclosed herein. Put another way, the frame assembly in the box portion may be a first frame assembly and the container may further comprise at least a second frame assembly as disclosed herein. The first frame assembly and the second frame assembly may be configured to abut at least one other frame assembly in the container. The frame assemblies may be disposed in a stacked arrangement in the box portion of the outer housing.

[0257] Where the outer housing comprises a box portion and a lid portion, the box portion may have a box front wall, a box rear wall and box side walls extending between the box front wall and the box rear wall. The box portion may also have a box bottom wall. The lid portion may have a lid front wall, a lid rear wall and lid side walls extending between the lid front wall and the lid rear wall. The lid portion may also have a lid top wall. The lid portion may move between the first and second positions by way of pivoting about a hinge line at a top edge of the box portion, preferably at a top edge of the box rear wall.

[0258] The outer housing may be in the shape of a rectangular parallelepiped, with longitudinal and transverse edges. The outer housing may be formed by one or more folded laminar blanks. The outer housing may be formed by a single laminar blank.

[0259] The one or more frame assemblies may be arranged within the outer housing such that a minor face of each frame assembly faces the lid top wall. The one or more frame assemblies may be arranged within the outer housing such that a minor face of each frame assembly faces the box bottom wall. The one or more frame assemblies may be arranged within the outer housing such that the first side of each frame assembly faces the box front wall. The one or more frame assemblies may be arranged within the outer housing such that the second side of each frame assembly faces the box rear wall.

[0260] As used herein, the terms “front”, “rear”, “upper”, “lower”, “top”, “bottom” and “side”, refer to the relative positions of portions of containers according to the disclosure, when the container is in an upright position with the access opening towards the top of the container. In particular, where the container is a hinged lid container, this refers to the container being in an upright position with the lid portion in the closed position and the hinge line at the rear of the container. As used herein, the term “aerosol-generating article” refers to an article comprising an aerosol-generating substrate. The article may be heated in use to produce and deliver an inhalable aerosol to a consumer.

[0261] As used herein, the term “aerosol-generating substrate” refers to a substrate capable of releasing volatile compounds upon heating, for example compounds which, in use, cool and condense to generate an aerosol.

[0262] As used herein, the term “aerosol-generating device” refers to a device that, in use, interacts with, for example heats, an aerosol-generating substrate of a planar aerosol-generating article to generate an aerosol.

[0263] As used herein, the term “planar” refers to a feature generally formed in a single Euclidean plane and not wrapped around or otherwise conformed to fit a curved or other non-planar shape. A planar surface may extend in two dimensions in a single Euclidean plane. A planar object may extend in two dimensions in a single Euclidean plane substantially more than in a third dimension perpendicular to the plane. More specifically, a planar object may extend in a first dimension and a second dimension perpendicular to the first dimension at least two, five or ten times further than the object extends in a third dimension perpendicular to the first and second dimensions.

[0264] As used herein, the term “transverse” refers to a direction extending between the first planar external surface and the second planar external surface. The transverse direction may also be referred to as the “z-direction”.

[0265] As used herein, the term “longitudinal” refers to a direction that is perpendicular to the transverse direction. For example, a direction between a front wall and a back wall of the planar aerosol-generating article. The longitudinal direction may also be referred to as the “x-direction”.

[0266] As used herein, the term “lateral” refers to a direction that is perpendicular to the transverse direction and the longitudinal direction. For example, a direction from a first side wall to a second side wall of the planar aerosol-generating article. The lateral direction may also be referred to as the “y-direction”.

[0267] As used herein, the term “thickness” refers to a maximum dimension of the planar aerosolgenerating article or a component of the planar aerosol-generating article in the transverse direction.

[0268] As used herein, the term “length” refers to a maximum dimension of the planar aerosolgenerating article or a component of the planar aerosol-generating article in the longitudinal direction.

[0269] As used herein, the term “width” refers to a maximum dimension of the planar aerosolgenerating article or a component of the planar aerosol-generating article in the lateral direction.

[0270] As used herein, the terms “upstream” and “downstream” refer to the relative positions of components, or portions of components, of the planar aerosol-generating article in relation to the direction in which the air or aerosol is transported through the planar aerosol-generating article during use. As used herein, the term “bulk density” may refer to the total weight of the aerosol-generating substrate divided by the bulk volume of the aerosol-generating substrate.

[0271] As used herein, the term “aerosol former” may refer to any suitable known compound or mixture of compounds that, in use, facilitates formation of an aerosol. The aerosol may be a dense and stable aerosol. The aerosol may be substantially resistant to thermal degradation at the operating temperature of the aerosol-generating substrate or planar aerosol-generating article.

[0272] As used herein, the term “aerosol former content” may refer to aerosol former content in percent on a dry weight basis, unless otherwise specified.

[0273] As used herein, a "susceptor" refers to a conductive element that heats up when subjected to a changing magnetic field. This may be the result of eddy currents induced in the susceptor element and / or hysteresis losses.

[0274] As used herein, the term “hydrophobic” refers to a surface exhibiting water repelling properties. One useful way to determine this is to measure the water contact angle. The “water contact angle” is the angle, conventionally measured through the liquid, where a liquid / vapour interface meets a solid surface. It quantifies the wettability of a solid surface by a liquid via the Young equation.

[0275] As used herein, the term “equivalent diameter” of an opening or an aperture is used herein to denote the diameter of a circular opening or aperture having the same cross-sectional area as the opening or aperture.

[0276] The invention is defined in the claims. However, below there is provided a non-exhaustive list of non-limiting examples. Any one or more of the features of these examples may be combined with any one or more features of another example, embodiment, or aspect described herein.

[0277] Example i . A frame assembly for planar aerosol-generating articles, the frame assembly comprising: a plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles; and a frame defining a plurality of cavities, wherein each planar aerosol-generating article is disposed in a respective one of the plurality of cavities of the frame.

[0278] Example 2. A frame assembly according to Example 1 , wherein each planar aerosolgenerating article has a first planar external surface, and wherein the frame has a first planar external surface, and wherein the first planar external surface of each planar aerosol-generating article is substantially co-planar with the first planar external surface of the frame.

[0279] Example 3. A frame assembly according to Example 1 or Example 2, wherein each planar aerosol-generating article has a second planar external surface, and wherein the frame has a second planar external surface, and wherein the second planar external surface of each planar aerosol-generating article is substantially co-planar with the second planar external surface of the frame. Example 4. A frame assembly according to any preceding Example, wherein each planar aerosol-generating article comprises a first planar external layer, and wherein the frame comprises a first planar external layer.

[0280] Example 5. A frame assembly according to Example 4, wherein the first planar external layer of each planar aerosol-generating article is formed of the same material as the first planar external layer of the frame.

[0281] Example 6. A frame assembly according to Example 4, wherein the first planar external layer of each planar aerosol-generating article is formed of a cellulosic material and the first planar external layer of the frame is formed of a cellulosic material.

[0282] Example 7. A frame assembly according to any of Examples 4 to 6 when dependent on Example 2, wherein the first planar external surface of each planar aerosol-generating article is formed by its respective first planar external layer, and wherein the first planar external surface of the frame is formed by the first planar external layer of the frame.

[0283] Example 8. A frame assembly according to any of Examples 4 to 7, wherein each planar aerosol-generating article comprises a second planar external layer, and wherein the frame comprises a second planar external layer.

[0284] Example 9. A frame assembly according to Example 8, wherein the second planar external layer of each planar aerosol-generating article is formed of the same material as the second planar external layer of the frame.

[0285] Example 10. A frame assembly according to Example 8, wherein the second planar external layer of each planar aerosol-generating article is formed of a cellulosic material and the second planar external layer of the frame is formed of a cellulosic material.

[0286] Example 11. A frame assembly according to any of Examples 8 to 10 when dependent on Example 3, wherein the second planar external surface of each planar aerosol-generating article is formed by its respective second planar external layer, and wherein the second planar external surface of the frame is formed by the second planar external layer of the frame.

[0287] Example 12. A frame assembly according to any preceding Example, wherein each cavity extends from an opening in a first side of the frame.

[0288] Example 13. A frame assembly according to Example 12, wherein each cavity extends from its respective opening in the first side of the frame to an opening in a second side of the frame, the second side of the frame being opposed to the first side of the frame.

[0289] Example 14. A frame assembly according to Example 12 or 13, wherein each cavity extends from an opening in a third side of the frame, the third side of the frame being orthogonal to the first side of the frame. Example 15. A frame assembly according to any of Examples 12 to 14, wherein the frame further comprises a cavity wall for each cavity, the cavity wall extending from the opening in the first side of the frame.

[0290] Example 16. A frame assembly according to any preceding Example, wherein each cavity and its respective planar aerosol-generating article are shaped and sized to define an access void within the cavity for assisting with removal of the planar aerosol generating article from the cavity.

[0291] Example 17. A frame assembly according to Example 16, wherein each access void is located at a first end of its respective cavity.

[0292] Example 18. A frame assembly according to any preceding Example, wherein the cavities are distributed in an array across the frame.

[0293] Example 19. A frame assembly according to Example 18, wherein the array comprises at least two rows and at least two columns.

[0294] Example 20. A frame assembly according to any preceding Example, wherein each cavity comprises one or more bridging elements.

[0295] Example 21. A frame assembly according to Example 20, wherein each bridging element attaches the frame to the planar aerosol-generating article in its respective cavity.

[0296] Example 22. A frame assembly according to Example 21 , wherein each bridging element is configured to be separable to permit the removal of its respective planar aerosolgenerating article from its respective cavity.

[0297] Example 23. A frame assembly according to any of Examples 20 to 22, wherein the one or more bridging elements of a cavity are defined by a line of perforations extending around at least a portion of the periphery of the planar aerosol-generating article in the cavity, the line of perforations delimiting at least a portion of the periphery of the cavity.

[0298] Example 24. A frame assembly according to any preceding Example, further comprising a protective layer extending over a first side of the frame and a corresponding first side of the plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles.

[0299] Example 25. A frame assembly according to Example 24, wherein the protective layer is affixed to at least a portion of the frame.

[0300] Example 26. A frame assembly according to Example 24 or 25, wherein the protective layer comprises a plurality of separable portions, each separable portion overlying a respective opening and planar aerosol-generating article of the frame assembly.

[0301] Example 27. A frame assembly according to Example 26, wherein each separable portion is configured to be peeled away from its respective opening to permit or enhance access to the planar aerosol-generating article disposed in its respective cavity.

[0302] Example 28. A frame assembly according to Example 26 or Example 27, wherein the protective layer further comprises a resealable adhesive configured to releasably seal the separable portions. Example 29. A frame assembly according to Example 26, wherein each separable portion is configured to be torn away from its respective opening to permit or enhance access to the planar aerosol-generating article disposed in said opening.

[0303] Example 30. A frame assembly according to Example 29, wherein the protective layer comprises a plurality of perforation lines each perforation line corresponding to a respective one of the separable portions and delimiting at least a portion of the periphery of said respective separable portion.

[0304] Example 31. A frame assembly according to any of Examples 24 to 30, wherein the protective layer comprises a moisture barrier layer, and wherein the moisture barrier layer preferably comprises a layer of metalized paper.

[0305] Example 32. A frame assembly according to any preceding Example, further comprising an enclosing element affixed to a first side of the frame, the enclosing element being configured prevent the plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles from being removed from their respective cavities at the first side of the frame.

[0306] Example 33. Aframe assembly according to Example 32, wherein the enclosing element is configured to partially cover a plurality of openings on the first side of the frame, where each opening corresponds to a respective cavity of the frame.

[0307] Example 34. A frame assembly according to Example 32 or 33, wherein the enclosing element is a planar sheet having a plurality of apertures defined therein, each aperture in the sheet overlying a respective one of the openings on the first side of the frame, and wherein one or more of the size, shape and relative position of the apertures and the openings is configured such that the plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles are prevented from being removed from their respective cavities through the apertures of the enclosing element.

[0308] Example 35. A frame assembly according to any of Examples 32 to 34, wherein the enclosing element is a first enclosing element and the frame assembly further comprises a second enclosing element affixed to a second side of the frame, the second enclosing element being configured prevent the plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles from being removed from their respective cavities at the second side of the frame.

[0309] Example 36. A frame assembly according to Example 35, wherein the second enclosing element is configured to partially cover a plurality of openings on the second side of the frame, where each opening corresponds to a respective cavity of the frame.

[0310] Example 37. A frame assembly according to Example 35 or 36, wherein the second enclosing element is a planar sheet having a plurality of apertures defined therein, each aperture in the sheet overlying a respective one of the openings on the second side of the frame, and wherein one or more of the size, shape and relative position of the apertures and the openings is configured such that the plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles are prevented from being removed from their respective cavities through the apertures of the second enclosing element. Example 38. A frame assembly according to any preceding Example, wherein each planar aerosol-generating article has a length extending in an x-direction, a width extending in a y- direction, and a thickness extending in a z-direction.

[0311] Example 39. A frame assembly according to Example 38, wherein the thickness of each planar aerosol-generating article is less than 50 percent of both the length and the width of the planar aerosol-generating article.

[0312] Example 40. A frame assembly according to Example 38 or 39, wherein a ratio between the length and the thickness of each planar aerosol-generating article, and between the width and the thickness of each planar aerosol-generating article is greater than 2:1 , greater than 5:1 , greater than 10:1 , greater than 12:1 , or greater than 15:1.

[0313] Example 41 . A frame assembly according to any of Examples 38 to 40, wherein a ratio between the length and the thickness of each planar aerosol-generating article, and between the width and the thickness of each planar aerosol-generating article is less than 15:1 , less than 12:1 , less than 10:1 , less than 5:1 , or less than 2.5:1.

[0314] Example 42. A frame assembly according to any of Examples 38 to 41 , wherein a ratio between the length and the thickness of each planar aerosol-generating article, and between the width and the thickness of each planar aerosol-generating article is between 2:1 and 15:1 , between 2:1 and 12:1 , between 2:1 and 10:1 , or between 5:1 and 10:1.

[0315] Example 43. A frame assembly according to any of Examples 38 to 42, wherein a ratio between the length and the width of each planar aerosol-generating article is greater than 1 :1 , greater than 2:1 , greater than 3:1 , greater than 4:1 , or greater than 5:1.

[0316] Example 44. A frame assembly according to any of Examples 38 to 43, wherein a ratio between the length and the width of each planar aerosol-generating article is less than 10:1 , less than 8:1 , less than 5:1 , less than 4:1 , less than 3:1 , or less than 2:1.

[0317] Example 45. A frame assembly according to any of Examples 38 to 44, wherein a ratio between the length and the width of each planar aerosol-generating article is between 1 :1 and 10:1 , between 1 :1 and 5:1 , between 1 :1 and 4:1 , between 1 :1 and 3:1 , between 2:1 and 4:1 , or between 2:1 and 3:1.

[0318] Example 46. A frame assembly according to any preceding Example, wherein each planar aerosol-generating article has a quadrilaterally-faced hexahedron shape.

[0319] Example 47. A frame assembly according to any preceding Example, wherein each planar aerosol-generating article comprises one or more aerosol-forming substrates for producing an aerosol.

[0320] Example 48. A frame assembly according to any preceding Example, wherein each planar aerosol-generating article comprises: a cavity; an air inlet and an air outlet; an airflow passage extending between the air inlet and the air outlet through the cavity. Example 49. A frame assembly according to Example 48, when dependent on Example 47, wherein at least one of the one or more aerosol-forming substrates is disposed in the cavity of the planar aerosol-generating article.

[0321] Example 50. A frame assembly according to Example 48 or 49, wherein each planar aerosol-generating article further comprises: a first planar external surface; a second planar external surface; and a frame positioned between the first planar external surface and the second planar external surface, wherein the frame of each planar aerosol-generating article at least partially defines the cavity of each planar aerosol-generating article.

[0322] Example 51 . A frame assembly according to any preceding Example, wherein the frame has a length extending in an x-direction, a width extending in a y-direction, and a thickness extending in a z-direction.

[0323] Example 52. A frame assembly according to Example 51 , wherein the thickness of the frame is less than 50 percent of both the length and the width of the frame.

[0324] Example 53. A frame assembly according to any preceding Example, wherein the frame has a quadrilaterally-faced hexahedron shape.

[0325] Example 54. A bundle comprising a plurality of frame assemblies according to any of Examples 1 to 53.

[0326] Example 55. A bundle according to Example 54, wherein the frame of each frame assembly comprises a through-hole for receiving a connecting element for connecting the plurality of frame assemblies together.

[0327] Example 56. A bundle according to Example 55, further comprising a connecting element configured to extend through the through-holes of the frame assemblies to connect the plurality of frame assemblies together.

[0328] Example 57. A bundle according to Example 56, wherein the connecting element comprises one or more of: a split ring; a deformable rod; a clip; and a screw.

[0329] Example 58. A container of planar aerosol-generating articles, the container comprising: a frame assembly according to any of Examples 1 to 53; and an outer housing at least partially enclosing the frame assembly.

[0330] Example 59. A container according to Example 58, wherein the outer housing comprises a first wall overlying a first side of the frame assembly.

[0331] Example 60. A container according to Example 59, wherein the first wall is affixed to the first side of the frame assembly.

[0332] Example 61 . A container according to Example 60, wherein the first wall is a major wall of the outer housing.

[0333] Example 62. A container according to any of Examples 59 to 61 , wherein the outer housing further comprises a second wall and at least one hinge line disposed between the first wall and the second wall, and wherein the second wall is configured to be moved relative to the first wall about the at least one hinge line between: a first position, in which the second wall is positioned opposite to the first wall to inhibit access to the frame assembly; and a second position, in which the second wall has been moved away from the first wall to enhance access to the frame assembly.

[0334] Example 63. A container according to Example 62, wherein the second wall is a major wall of the outer housing.

[0335] Example 64. A container according to Example 62 or 63, wherein the outer housing further comprises a third wall, the third wall extending from the first wall to the second wall to connect the first wall with the second wall.

[0336] Example 65. A container according to Example 64, wherein the third wall of the outer housing is connected to one of the first wall and the second wall of the outer housing by the at least one hinge line.

[0337] Example 66. A container according to Example 64, wherein the third wall of the outer housing comprises a first panel and a second panel, and wherein the at least one hinge line comprises a first hinge line connecting the first panel of the third wall to the second panel of the third wall.

[0338] Example 67. A container according to Example 66, wherein the first wall of the outer housing is connected to the first panel of the third wall of the outer housing.

[0339] Example 68. A container according to Example 66 or 67, wherein the second wall of the outer housing is connected to the second panel of the third wall of the outer housing.

[0340] Example 69. A container according to Example 66 or 67, wherein the third wall of the outer housing further comprises a third panel, and wherein the at least one hinge line comprises a second hinge line connecting the second panel of the third wall to the third panel of the third wall.

[0341] Example 70. A container according to Example 69, wherein the second wall of the outer housing is connected to the third panel of the third wall of the outer housing.

[0342] Example 71 . A container according to any of Examples 62 to 70, wherein the third wall of the outer housing is orthogonal to one or both of the first wall and the second wall of the outer housing when the second wall of the outer housing is in the first position.

[0343] Example 72. A container according to any of Examples 62 to 71 , wherein the third wall is a minor wall of the outer housing.

[0344] Example 73. A container according to any of Examples 64 to 72, wherein the outer housing further comprises at least one panel configured to form a fourth wall of the outer housing when the second wall is in the first position with respect to the first wall, the fourth wall being positioned opposite to the third wall.

[0345] Example 74. A container according to Example 73, wherein the at least one panel forming the fourth wall comprises a panel connected to the first wall or the second wall.

[0346] Example 75. A container according to Example 73 or 74, wherein the at least one panel forming the fourth wall comprises a first panel connected to the first wall and a second panel connected to the second wall, the first panel and the second panel overlapping to form the fourth wall of the outer housing when the second wall is in the first position with respect to the first wall.

[0347] Example 76. A container according to any of Examples 73 to 75, wherein the fourth wall is a minor wall of the outer housing.

[0348] Example 77. A container according to any of Examples 62 to 76, wherein the outer housing further comprises a tab and a corresponding slot configured to interact with one another to hold the second wall in the first position with respect to the first wall.

[0349] Example 78. A container according to Example 77, when dependent on Example 74, wherein the tab extends from the panel connected to the first wall or the second wall.

[0350] Example 79. A container according to any of Examples 58 to 78, wherein a portion of the outer surface of the container is provided by at least one minor face of the frame assembly.

[0351] Example 80. A container according to any of Examples 58 to 79, wherein the frame assembly is a first frame assembly and the container further comprises at least a second frame assembly according to any of Examples 1 to 53.

[0352] Example 81 . A container according to Example 80, wherein the first frame assembly and the second frame assembly are configured to abut at least one other frame assembly in the container.

[0353] Example 82. A container according to Example 81 , wherein the first frame assembly and the second frame assembly are configured to abut one another in the container.

[0354] Example 83. A container according to any of Examples 80 to 82, when dependent on any of Examples 62 to 79, wherein the second wall of the outer housing overlies a first side of the second frame assembly.

[0355] Example 84. A container according to Example 83, wherein the second wall of the outer housing is affixed to the first side of the second frame assembly.

[0356] Example 85. A container according to any of Examples 80, 82, 83 and 84, wherein the container further comprises a third frame assembly disposed between the first frame assembly and the second frame assembly.

[0357] Example 86. A container according to Example 85, when dependent on any of Examples 64 to 79, wherein the third frame assembly is affixed to the third wall of the outer housing.

[0358] Example 87. A container according to Example 58, wherein the outer housing comprises: a box portion at least partially containing the frame assembly; and a lid portion, wherein the box portion has an access opening, and wherein the lid portion is configured to move between: a closed position, in which the lid portion covers the access opening; and an open position, in which one or more planar aerosol-generating articles of the frame assembly can be removed through the access opening.

[0359] Example 88. A container according to Example 87, wherein the frame assembly is removable from the outer housing through the access opening of the box portion when the lid portion is in the open position. Example 89. A container according to Example 87 or 88, wherein the frame is a first frame assembly and the container further comprises at least a second frame assembly according to any of Examples 1 to 53.

[0360] Example 90. A container according to Example 89, wherein the first frame assembly and the second frame assembly are configured to abut at least one other frame assembly in the container.

[0361] Example 91 . A container according to Example 90, wherein the first frame assembly and the second frame assembly are configured to abut one another in the container.

[0362] Brief description of the drawings

[0363] Examples will now be further described with reference to the figures in which:

[0364] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a planar aerosol-generating article of a frame assembly according to the present disclosure;

[0365] Figure 2 shows an exploded perspective view of the aerosol-generating article of Figure 1 ;

[0366] Figure 3 shows an exploded perspective view of an aerosol-generating article according to the present disclosure;

[0367] Figure 4 shows a perspective view of an aerosol-generating article according to the present disclosure;

[0368] Figure 5 shows a perspective view of an aerosol-generating article according to the present disclosure;

[0369] Figure 6 shows an exploded perspective view of an aerosol-generating article according to the present disclosure;

[0370] Figure 7 shows a perspective view of an aerosol-generating article according to the present disclosure; Figure 8 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of an aerosol-generating device according to the present disclosure;

[0371] Figure 9 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the aerosol-generating device of Figure 8 in engagement with an aerosol-generating article of the present disclosure;

[0372] Figure 10 shows a perspective view of a frame assembly according to the present disclosure;

[0373] Figure 11 shows a cross sectional view of the frame assembly of Figure 10 as take along line A-A;

[0374] Figure 12 shows a perspective view of a frame assembly according to the present disclosure;

[0375] Figure 13 shows a perspective view of a frame assembly according to the present disclosure;

[0376] Figure 14 shows a perspective view of a frame assembly according to the present disclosure;

[0377] Figure 15 shows an exploded perspective view of a frame assembly according to the present disclosure; Figure 16 shows a perspective view of the frame assembly of Figure 15;

[0378] Figure 17 shows an exploded perspective view of a frame assembly according to the present disclosure;

[0379] Figure 18 shows a perspective view of the frame assembly of Figure 17;

[0380] Figure 19 shows a further perspective view of the frame assembly of Figure 17;

[0381] Figure 20 shows a perspective view of a container comprising a plurality of frame assemblies according to the present disclosure, where a lid of the container is in an open position;

[0382] Figure 21 shows a perspective view of the container of Figure 20, where the lid of the container is in a closed position;

[0383] Figure 22 shows a schematic view of a container comprising a frame assembly according to the present disclosure where a second wall of the container is in a first position;

[0384] Figure 23 shows a schematic view of the container of Figure 22, where the second wall of the container is in a second position;

[0385] Figure 24 shows a schematic view of a container comprising two frame assemblies according to the present disclosure;

[0386] Figure 25 shows a schematic view of a container comprising three frame assemblies according to the present disclosure;

[0387] Figure 26 shows a laminar blank for forming an outer housing of the container of Figure 25;

[0388] Figure 27 shows a perspective view of a frame assembly according to the present disclosure;

[0389] Figure 28 shows an exploded perspective view of a frame assembly according to the present disclosure;

[0390] Figure 29 shows a perspective view of the frame assembly of Figure 28;

[0391] Figure 30 shows a perspective view of a frame assembly according to the present disclosure;

[0392] Figure 31 shows a perspective view of a container comprising four frame assemblies according to the present disclosure, the container being in an open condition;

[0393] Figure 32 shows a perspective view of the container of Figure 31 , the container being in a closed condition; and

[0394] Figure 33 shows a laminar blank for forming an outer housing of the container of Figures 31 and 32.

[0395] Detailed description

[0396] Figure 1 shows an aerosol-generating article 10 comprising a first planar external layer 24 forming a first planar external surface 21 , a second planar external layer 25 forming a second planar external surface 22, and a frame 50 positioned between the first planar external layer 24 and the second planar external layer 25. The first planar external layer 24 and the second planar external layer 25 both comprise an aerosol-generating substrate comprising an aerosol-generating material, namely tobacco. However, it will be understood that in some embodiments only one of the first planar external layer 24 and the second planar external layer 25 may comprise an aerosolgenerating substrate. Alternatively, or additionally, the aerosol-generating substrate may be positioned elsewhere within the aerosol-generating article 10.

[0397] The aerosol-generating article 10 has a length extending in the x-direction, a width extending in the y-direction and a thickness extending in the z-direction. The aerosol-generating article 10 has a length of 30 millimetres, a width of 10 millimetres, and a thickness of 3.1 millimetres.

[0398] The aerosol-generating article 10 is a substantially flat aerosol-generating article or a substantially planar aerosol-generating article. In particular, the thickness of the aerosol-generating article 10 is less than 50 percent of both the length and the width of the aerosol-generating article. The aerosol-generating article 10 has a generally rectangular cuboid shape and a laminated structure formed by the first planar external layer 24, the frame 50 and the second planar external layer 25. The first planar external layer 24, the frame 50 and the second planar external layer 25 are bonded together with an adhesive, in particular guar gum, as discussed in more detail below in relation to Figure 2.

[0399] Figure 2 shows an exploded view of the aerosol-generating article 10 of Figure 1 .

[0400] The frame 50 has a length of 30 millimetres, a width of 10 millimetres, and a thickness of 2.7 millimetres. The frame 50 is made from cardboard and defines a frame aperture extending through the thickness of the frame 50. The frame aperture at least partially forms a cavity 30. The cavity 30 has length of 26 millimetres, a width of 6 millimetres, and a thickness of 2.7 millimetres. Therefore, the cavity 30 has a volume of about 421.2 cubic millimetres. In this embodiment, the cavity 30 is substantially empty.

[0401] The frame 50 has a frame inner surface 52 extending in the z-direction or the transverse direction between the first planar external surface 21 and the second planar external surface 22. The frame inner surface 52 defines a cavity outer wall. The frame 50 has a frame outer surface 53 extending in the z-direction or the transverse direction between the first planar external surface 21 and the second planar external surface 22. The frame outer surface 53 at least partially defines one or more external surfaces of the aerosol-generating article, such as the front wall 13 and the back wall 14.

[0402] The frame 50 comprises a peripheral wall 51 that circumscribes the cavity 30. In more detail, the peripheral wall 51 is defined by the frame inner surface 52 and the frame outer surface 52. The peripheral wall 51 has a radial thickness, as measured between the frame inner surface 52 and the frame outer surface 53 in the x / y plane, of about 2 millimetres.

[0403] The first planar external layer 24 and the second planar external layer 25 have a thickness of 200 micrometres and are in physical contact with the frame 50. The first planar external layer 24 and the second planar external layer 25 are bonded to the frame with an adhesive 15. The first planar external layer 24 defines at least a portion of the cavity 30. The second planar external layer 25 defines at least a portion of the cavity 30.

[0404] The aerosol-generating article 10 comprises an air inlet 11 and an air outlet 12. The air inlet 11 and the air outlet 12 are defined by, and extend through, the peripheral wall 51 of the frame 50. The air inlet 11 and the air outlet 12 each have a rectangular cross-section, a width of 2 millimetres, and a thickness of 0.9 millimetres. An airflow passage extends between the air inlet 11 and the air outlet 12 through the cavity 30.

[0405] Figure 3 shows an exploded view of an aerosol-generating article that is similar to the aerosol-generating article 10 of Figure 1 except that the first planar external layer 24 and the second planar external layer 25 do not comprise an aerosol-generating substrate. Instead, an aerosol-generating substrate 40 is positioned within the cavity 30. The aerosol-generating substrate 40 comprises an aerosol-generating material in the form of tobacco cut filler and has an aerosol-former content of 5 percent by weight on a dry weight basis. As shown, the aerosolgenerating substrate 40 fills the entire volume of the cavity 30. In the example of Figure 3, the aerosol-generating substrate 40 has a packing density of about 0.87, a density of about 0.3 grams per cubic centimetre, and a mass of about 110 milligrams. In another example, the aerosolgenerating substrate 40 may have a different packing density, a different density and a different mass. For example, aerosol-generating substrate may have a packing density of 0.64, a density of 0.35 grams per cubic centimetre, and a mass of about 95 milligrams.

[0406] Figure 4 shows an aerosol-generating article 10 similar to the aerosol-generating article 10 of Figures 1 and 3 except that the aerosol-generating article 10 of Figure 4 comprises an outer wrapper 23 defining the first planar external surface 21 and the second planar external surface 22 instead of the first planar external layer 24 and the second planar external layer 25.

[0407] Figure 5 shows an aerosol-generating article 10 similar to the aerosol-generating article 10 of Figure 1 except that the aerosol-generating article 10 of Figure 5 further comprises a first aerosol-generating substrate layer 41 and a second aerosol-generating substrate layer 42. The first aerosol-generating substrate layer 41 and the second aerosol-generating substrate layer 42 are formed from a sheet of aerosol-generating material. In particular, a sheet of homogenised tobacco material having an aerosol-former content of 5 percent by weight on a dry weight basis. The first aerosol-generating substrate layer 41 and the second aerosol-generating substrate layer 42 each have a length equal to the length of the aerosol-generating article 10, a width equal to the width of the aerosol-generating article 10 and a thickness of 200 micrometres. That is, the aerosolgenerating article 10 has a length of 30 millimetres, a width of 10 millimetres, and a thickness of 3.5 millimetres.

[0408] The first aerosol-generating substrate layer 41 and the second aerosol-generating substrate layer 42 are in physical contact with the frame 50 and are bonded to the frame with an adhesive 15. The first aerosol-generating substrate layer 41 defines at least a portion of the cavity 30. The second aerosol-generating layer 42 defines at least a portion of the cavity 30. The first planar external layer 24 is in physical contact with the first aerosol-generating substrate layer 41 and are bonded together with an adhesive 15. The second planar external layer 25 is in physical contact with the second aerosol-generating substrate layer 42 and are bonded together with an adhesive 15.

[0409] Figure 6 shows an exploded view of an aerosol-generating article 10 that is similar to the aerosol-generating article 10 of Figure 5 except that an aerosol-generating substrate 40 is positioned within the cavity 30 as described in relation to Figure 3. The aerosol-generating substrate 40 comprises an aerosol-generating material in the form of tobacco cut filler and has an aerosol-former content of 5 percent by weight on a dry weight basis. As shown, the aerosolgenerating substrate 40 fills the entire volume of the cavity 30. Figure 7 shows an aerosolgenerating article 10 similar to the aerosol-generating article 10 of Figure 5 except that the aerosolgenerating article 10 of Figure 7 comprises an outer wrapper 23 defining the first planar external surface 21 and the second planar external surface 22 instead of the first planar external layer 24 and the second planar external layer 25.

[0410] Figure 8 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of an aerosol-generating device 90 configured for use with an aerosol-generating article 10 described herein. The aerosol-generating device 90 is an elongate aerosol-generating device extending between a proximal end 91 and a distal end 92. The aerosol-generating device 90 comprises a battery 93, a controller 94, a first heater 95 and a second heater 96 located within a housing 97. The controller 94 controls supply of power from the battery 93 to the first heater 95 and the second heater 96. A cavity 1000 is defined in the device 90, the cavity 1000 having an opening 1010 defined in the proximal end 91 of the device 90. The opening 1010 is rectangular in shape and is dimensioned to accommodate the transverse cross-section of the aerosol-generating article 10. The cavity 1000 comprises an upper planar surface 1020 and a lower planar surface 1030. The first heater 95 is located in the upper planar surface 1020 to heat the first planar external surface 21 of an aerosol-generating article 10 inserted into the cavity 1000, and the second heater 96 is located in the lower planar surface 1030 to heat the second planar external surface 22 of an aerosol-generating article 10 inserted into the cavity 1000. The device 90 comprises an air inlet 98 defining an air-flow path configured to allow air to flow into the cavity 1000 from outside the device.

[0411] Figure 9 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the aerosol-generating device 90 of Figure 8 in engagement with the aerosol-generating article 10 of Figure 1. There is little tolerance between the first planar external surface 21 and the second planar external surface 22 of the aerosol-generating article 10 and the internal surfaces 1020, 1030 of the cavity 1000. Thus, there is a snug fit between the aerosol-generating article 10 and the aerosol-generating device 90. When a consumer has inserted the aerosol-generating article 10 into the cavity 1000, the device can be operated. The first heater 95 heats the first planar external surface 21 of the aerosol-generating article 10 and the second heater 96 heats the second planar external surface 22 of the aerosolgenerating article, and as a result the aerosol-generating substrate is heated. Volatile components of the aerosol-generating substrate are evaporated and condense in the cavity 30 of the aerosolgenerating article 10 to form an aerosol. The consumer inhales the aerosol by drawing on the end of the aerosol-generating article 10 comprising the air outlet 12. Once the aerosol-generating substrate has been depleted of volatile components, the aerosol-generating article 10 is removed from the cavity 1000 and disposed of.

[0412] Figure 10 shows a perspective view of a frame assembly 101 according to the present disclosure. Figure 11 shows a cross sectional view of the frame assembly of Figure 10 as take along line A-A. The frame assembly 101 has a length extending in the x-direction, a width extending in the y-direction and a thickness extending in the z-direction. The aerosol-generating article 10 has a length of 30 millimetres, a width of 10 millimetres, and a thickness of 3.1 millimetres.

[0413] The frame assembly 101 is a substantially flat frame assembly or a substantially planar frame assembly. In particular, the thickness of the frame assembly 101 is less than 50 percent of both the length and the width of the frame assembly 101 . The frame assembly 101 has a generally rectangular cuboid shape and a laminated structure. For simplicity, the layers of the laminated structure are not depicted in Figures 10 and 11.

[0414] The frame assembly of Figures 10 and 11 comprises four planar aerosol-generating articles 10 and a frame 102 defining four cavities 103 distributed in an array across the frame 102. Each planar aerosol-generating article 10 is disposed in a respective one of the plurality of cavities 103 of the frame 10.

[0415] As can be seen from Figures 10 and 11 , each planar aerosol-generating article 10 has a first planar external surface 10a, and the frame 102 has a first planar external surface 102a. The first planar external surface 10a of each planar aerosol-generating article 10 is substantially coplanar with the first planar external surface 102a of the frame 102.

[0416] Each planar aerosol-generating article 10 also has a second planar external surface 10b, and the frame 102 also has a second planar external surface 102b. The second planar external surface 10b of each planar aerosol-generating article 10 is substantially co-planarwith the second planar external surface 102b of the frame 102. the first planar external surfaces 10a and 102a are positioned on a first major side of the frame assembly 101 , and the second planar external surfaces 10b and 102b are positioned on a second major side of the frame assembly 101. The first major side is positioned opposite to the second major side.

[0417] As illustrated by Figures 10 and 11 , the planar aerosol-generating articles 10 are not directly fixed to the frame 102, but instead reside freely in the cavities. Figure 12 depicts a perspective view of a frame assembly 121 according to the present disclosure.

[0418] In the frame assembly 121 of Figure 12, a plurality of bridging elements 125 are attaching the frame 102 to the planar aerosol-generating articles 10. The plurality of bridging elements 125 are defined by lines of perforations, each extending around the periphery of a planar aerosol- generating article in its respective cavity. The line of perforations therefore delimit the periphery of the cavity.

[0419] In the frame assembly of Figure 12, the frame 102 comprises a first planar external layer 120a and the planar aerosol-generating articles 10 comprise a corresponding first planar external layer (not labelled), said first planar external layers respectively forming the first planar external surfaces of the frame 102 and the aerosol-generating articles 10. The first planar external layer of each planar aerosol-generating article 10 is formed of the same material as the first planar external layer 120a of the frame 102.

[0420] In the frame assembly of Figure 12, the frame 102 also comprises a second planar external layer 120b and the planar aerosol-generating articles 10 comprise a corresponding second planar external layer (not labelled), said second planar external layers respectively forming the second planar external surfaces of the frame 102 and the aerosol-generating articles 10. The second planar external layer of each planar aerosol-generating article 10 is formed of the same material as the second planar external layer 120b of the frame 102.

[0421] Figure 13 shows a perspective view of a frame assembly 131 according to the present disclosure. The frame assembly 131 again has a frame 102 and plurality of planar aerosolgenerating articles 10 is disposed in a respective one of the plurality of cavities of the frame 102. In the frame assembly 131 of Figure 13, each cavity and its respective planar aerosol-generating article 10 is shaped and sized to define an access void 135 within the cavity. The access void 135 is an empty space within the cavity where the planar aerosol-generating article 10 does not reside. The access void 135 is configured to assist with removal of the planar aerosol generating article from the cavity, for example by allowing a user to insert their finger into the cavity to help remove the planar aerosol-generating article 10 from the cavity.

[0422] Each access void 135 is located at a first end of its respective cavity. Each access void 135 is smaller in volume than the corresponding planar aerosol-generating article 10 in the cavity. Each access void 135 has a volume of no more than 30 percent and at least 5 of the volume of the corresponding planar aerosol-generating article 10 in the cavity.

[0423] Figure 14 shows a perspective view of a frame assembly 141 according to the present disclosure. The frame assembly 141 again has a frame 102 and plurality of planar aerosolgenerating articles 10 is disposed in a respective one of the plurality of cavities of the frame 102. In the frame assembly 141 of Figure 14, a single bridging element 145 is disposed at a first end of each cavity. Each bridging element 145 attaches the frame 102 to a planar aerosol-generating article 10 in its respective cavity. Each bridging element 145 is configured to be separable to permit the removal of its respective planar aerosol-generating article 10 from its respective cavity. As such, the bridging elements 145 are configured to prevent the planar aerosol-generating articles 10 from being removed from the cavities, but also configured to separate (for example, by tearing) in response to an external force so as to permit removal of the planar aerosol-generating articles 10. The bridging elements 145 are formed from the same material as corresponding parts or layers of the frame 102 and the planar aerosol-generating articles 10.

[0424] Figure 15 shows an exploded perspective view of a frame assembly 151 according to the present disclosure. The frame assembly 151 again has a frame 102 and plurality of planar aerosolgenerating articles 10 is disposed in a respective one of the plurality of cavities of the frame 102. However, the frame assembly 151 further comprises a first protective layer 151 a configured to extend over a first side of the frame 102 and a corresponding first side of the plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles 10. The first protective layer 151 a is arranged to be affixed to at least a portion of the frame 102, for example, by one or more portions of adhesive.

[0425] The first protective layer 151 a comprises a plurality of separable portions 155. As can be best seen from the view of the first side of the frame assembly 151 in Figure 16, each separable portion 155 overlies a respective cavity and planar aerosol-generating article 10 of the frame assembly 151. Each separable portion 155 is configured to be peeled away from its respective cavity and planar aerosol-generating article 10 to permit or enhance access to the planar aerosolgenerating article disposed in its respective cavity. This is best seen from the right hand side of the frame assembly 151 in Figure 16, where one of the separable portions 155 has been peeled back and a planar aerosol-generating article 10 has been removed from the cavity. The first protective layer 151a may further comprise a resealable adhesive configured to releasably seal each of the plurality of separable portions 155. The first protective layer 151 a may be made of metalized paper.

[0426] Figure 15 also shows a second protective layer 151 b configured to extend over a second side of the frame 102 and a corresponding second side of the plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles 10. The second protective layer 151 b is arranged to be affixed to at least a portion of the frame 102, for example, by one or more portions of adhesive. The second protective layer 151 b also comprises separable portions 156, and may comprise any of the features of the first protective layer 151a.

[0427] Figure 17 shows an exploded perspective view of a frame assembly 171 according to the present disclosure.

[0428] The frame assembly 171 again has a frame 102 and plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles 10 is disposed in a respective one of the plurality of cavities of the frame 102. However, in addition to having an opening on a first side of the frame 102 and an opening on a second side of the frame 102, each cavity of the frame also has an opening on a third side of the frame. The third side of the frame 102 is a minor side of the frame 102 and is orthogonal to the first and second sides of the frame 102.

[0429] The frame assembly 171 of Figure 17 also further comprises a first enclosing element 171 a configured to extend over a first side of the frame 102 and a corresponding first side of the plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles 10. The first enclosing element 171a is arranged to be affixed to at least a portion of the frame 102, for example, by one or more portions of adhesive. If a first protective layer is present, the first protective layer may be arranged to overlie the first enclosing element 171 a.

[0430] The first enclosing element 171a is sized and shaped to prevent the plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles 10 from being removed from their respective cavities at the first side of the frame. In particular, the first enclosing element 171 a is configured to partially cover the plurality of openings on the first side of the frame 102.

[0431] The first enclosing element 171 a is a planar sheet having a plurality of apertures 175 defined therein. Each aperture 175 in the sheet overlies a respective one of the openings on the first side of the frame. The size, shape and relative position of the apertures 175 and the openings is configured such that the plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles 10 are prevented from being removed from their respective cavities through the apertures 175 of the first enclosing element 171 a.

[0432] Figure 17 also shows a second enclosing element 171 b configured to extend over a second side of the frame 102 and a corresponding second side of the plurality of planar aerosolgenerating articles 10. The second enclosing element 171 b is arranged to be affixed to at least a portion of the frame 102, for example, by one or more portions of adhesive. The second enclosing element 171 b also comprises apertures 176, and may comprise any of the features of the first enclosing element 171a.

[0433] As best seen from Figures 18 and 19, the arrangement of the first enclosing element 171a, second enclosing element 171 b, and openings in the third side of the frame assembly 171 can provide a particularly effective slide and slot arrangement where planar aerosol-generating articles 10 held within the frame 102 cannot be removed from the first or second sides of the frame assembly 171 , but can still be removed by sliding out of the opening in the third side of the frame assembly 171.

[0434] For ease of understanding, the frame assemblies of Figures 10 to 19 and their respective individual features are shown and described individually. However, it will be appreciated that each frame assembly of Figures 10 to 19 may have any one or combination of features of those shown and described in respect of the other frame assemblies shown in said Figures. For example, the frame assembly 101 of Figure 10 may have one or more of the features of one or both of the frame assembly 121 of Figure 12 and the frame assembly 131 of Figure 13. As another example, the frame assembly 141 of Figure 14 may have one or more of the features of one or both of the frame assembly 151 of Figure 15 and the frame assembly 171 of Figure 17, and so forth.

[0435] Figures 20 and 21 shows perspective views of a container 210 comprising a plurality of frame assemblies 201 according to the present disclosure. The frame assemblies 201 may be any one of the frame assemblies of Figures 10 to 19, or any combination thereof.

[0436] The container 210 has an outer housing comprising: a box portion 230 at least partially containing the frame assemblies 201 ; and a lid portion 240. The box portion 230 has an access opening, and the lid portion 240 is configured to move between: a closed position (as shown in Figure 21), in which the lid portion 240 covers the access opening; and an open position (as shown in Figure 20), in which one or more planar aerosol-generating articles 10 of the frame assemblies 201 can be removed through the access opening. The frame assemblies are e fully removable from the outer housing through the access opening of the box portion 230 when the lid portion 240 is in the open position. The outer housing also comprises an inner frame 250 disposed within the box portion 230. The frame assemblies 201 are disposed in a stacked arrangement in the box portion 230 of the outer housing.

[0437] The box portion 240 has a box front wall 231 , a box rear wall (not shown) and a first box side wall and a second box side wall 232, each box side wall extending between the box front wall 231 and the box rear wall. The box portion 230 also has a box bottom wall.

[0438] The lid portion 240 has a lid front wall 241 , a lid rear wall and a first lid side wall and a second lid side wall 242, each lid side wall extending between the lid front wall 241 and the lid rear wall. The lid portion also has a lid top wall 244. The lid portion 240 is moveable between the first and second positions by way of pivoting about a hinge line at a top edge of the box portion 230, preferably at a top edge of the box rear wall. The outer housing is in the shape of a rectangular parallelepiped, with longitudinal and transverse edges.

[0439] The frame assemblies 201 are arranged within the outer housing such that a minor face of each frame assembly 201 faces the lid top wall 244. The frame assemblies 201 are arranged within the outer housing such that a minor face of each frame assembly 201 faces the box bottom wall. The frame assemblies 201 are arranged within the outer housing such that the first side of each frame assembly faces the box front wall 231 . The frame assemblies are arranged within the outer housing such that the second side of each frame assembly faces the box rear wall.

[0440] Figure 22 shows a schematic view of a container 225 comprising a frame assembly 2201 according to the present disclosure. The frame assembly 2201 may be any one of the frame assemblies of Figures 10 to 19, or any combination thereof.

[0441] The container 225 has an outer housing has a plurality of walls enclosing the frame assembly 2201 , including a first wall 221 overlying a first side of the frame assembly 2201. The first wall 221 is affixed to the first side of the frame assembly 2201 by a portion of adhesive 227.

[0442] The outer housing further comprises a second wall 222 and at least one hinge line 260 disposed between the first wall 221 and the second wall 222. As depicted by Figures 22 and 23, the second wall 222 is configured to be moved relative to the first wall 221 about the at least one hinge line 260 between: a first position (Figure 22), in which the second wall 222 is positioned opposite to the first wall 221 to inhibit access to the frame assembly 2201 ; and a second position, in which the second wall 222 has been moved away from the first wall 221 to enhance access to the frame assembly 2201 .

[0443] The first wall 221 and the second wall 222 are each a major wall of the outer housing. The second wall 222 has substantially the same size and shape as the first wall 221 of the outer housing. The outer housing further comprises a third wall 223. The third wall 223 extends from the first wall 221 to the second wall 222 to connect the first wall 221 with the second wall 221 . The third wall 223 of the outer housing is directly connected to the second wall 222 of the outer housing by the at least one hinge line 260. The third wall 223 is affixed to a third side of the frame assembly 2201 by a portion of adhesive 227. In the container of Figure 22 and Figure 23, the third wall is a single panel.

[0444] As can be seen from Figure 22, a portion of the outer surface of the container 225 of Figure 22 is provided by at least one minor face of the frame assembly 2201 .

[0445] Figure 24 shows a schematic view of a container 2254 comprising a first frame assembly 2201 and a second frame assembly 2202 according to the present disclosure. The frame assemblies 2201 , 2202 may be any one of the frame assemblies of Figures 10 to 19, or any combination thereof.

[0446] In the container of Figure 24, the third wall 223 of the outer housing comprises a first panel 2231 and a second panel 2232. Furthermore, the at least one hinge line 260 comprises a first hinge line 261 connecting the first panel 2231 of the third wall 223 to the second panel 2232 of the third wall 223. The first wall 221 of the outer housing is connected to the first panel 2231 of the third wall 223 of the outer housing. The second wall 222 of the outer housing is connected to the second panel 2232 of the third wall 223 of the outer housing.

[0447] As can be seen from Figure 24, a portion of the outer surface of the container 2254 of Figure 22 is provided by at least one minor face of the first frame assembly 2201 and the second frame assembly 2202.

[0448] Figure 25 shows a schematic view of a container 2255 comprising a first frame assembly 2201 , a second frame assembly 2202 and a third frame assembly 2203 according to the present disclosure.

[0449] In addition to the first panel 2231 and the second panel 2232, the third wall 223 of the outer housing of Figure 25 further comprises a third panel 2233. As shown in Figure 25, in addition to the first hinge line 261 , the at least one hinge line 260 further comprises a second hinge line 262 connecting the second panel 2232 of the third wall to the third panel 2233 of the third wall. The first hinge line 261 and the second hinge line 262 may therefore provide the container with two points at which the second wall 222 can be moved relative to the first wall 221 between the first and second positions. The second wall 222 of the outer housing is connected to the third panel 2233 of the third wall of the outer housing. The third wall 223 of the outer housing is orthogonal to both of the first wall 221 and the second wall 222 of the outer housing, when the second wall 222 of the outer housing is in the first position. The third wall 223 is a minor wall of the outer housing.

[0450] As also shown in Figure 25, the outer housing further comprises a fourth wall 224. The fourth wall 224 is a minor wall positioned opposite the third wall 223.

[0451] The fourth wall 224 is formed of an inner panel 2241 and an outer panel 2242 which overlap with one another. The inner panel 2241 of the fourth wall 224 is connected to the first wall 221 by a hinge line. The outer panel 2242 of the fourth wall 224 is connected to the second wall 222 by a hinge line.

[0452] The outer housing further comprises a tab 270 and a corresponding slot 275 configured to interact with one another to hold the second wall 222 in the first position with respect to the first wall 221 . The tab extends from the outer panel 2242 of the fourth wall.

[0453] Figure 26 shows a single laminar blank 2265 for forming an outer housing of the container of Figure 25. The laminar blank 2265 is shown in an unfolded planar condition. The laminar blank 2265 includes a plurality of panels connected together by a plurality of fold lines, the fold lines being depicted by dashed lines. The panels are labelled to show the corresponding portion of the outer housing which they form when the laminar blank 2265 is folded about the fold lines.

[0454] Figure 27 shows a perspective view of a frame assembly 271 according to the present disclosure. The frame assembly 271 is similar to the frame assemblies previously described in respect of Figures 10 to 26. For example, frame assembly 271 also has a frame 102 and plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles 10 is disposed in a respective one of the plurality of cavities of the frame 102. As with the frame assembly 141 of Figure 14, the frame assembly 271 of Figure 27 also has bridging elements. However, in the frame assembly of Figure 27, each cavity is provided with two bridging elements 274, 275, instead of a single bridging element. These two bridging elements 274, 275 are arranged so that one of the bridging elements 274 is disposed on one side of the planar aerosol-generating article 10 in the cavity, and the other bridging element 275 is disposed on another opposed side of the planar aerosol-generating article 10. Furthermore, the bridging elements 274, 275 for each cavity are positioned off-centre with respect to a length of the cavity. That is, they are disposed closer to a first end of the cavity than a second end of a cavity. Furthermore, the planar aerosol-generating articles of Figure 27 are asymmetrical in shape.

[0455] Figure 28 shows an exploded perspective view of a frame assembly 281 according to the present disclosure. Figure 29 shows a perspective view of the frame assembly 281 of Figure 28. The frame assembly 281 of Figures 28 and 29 is similar to the frame assembly of Figure 27, at least in the sense that each cavity has two bridging elements 284, 285 positioned towards one end of the cavity. However, in the frame assembly 28 of Figures 28 and 29, each cavity of the frame also has an opening 287 on a third side of the frame. This is in addition to the opening on the first side of the frame 102 and the opening on the second side of the frame 102. This three-sided opening arrangement is similar to that shown and described in respect of Figures 17 to 19.

[0456] As seen from Figure 29, when the first enclosing element 281a and second enclosing element 281 b are affixed to the frame 280, these enclosing elements 281a, 281 b cover the bridging elements 284, 285 of each cavity. Thus, said bridging elements 284, 285 are not visible to a user from either side of the frame assembly 281 . This therefore prevents the user from directly touching the bridging elements 284, 285 and therefore may help to prevent unintended or premature separation of the bridging elements 284, 285. However, when a user does wish to access a planar aerosol-generating article 10 from the frame assembly 281 of Figures 28 and 29, the user can grip the portion of the planar aerosol-generating article 10 which is accessible through the corresponding apertures 285, 286 in the first and second enclosing elements 281a, 281 b. The user can then push the planar aerosol-generating article 10 towards its corresponding opening 287 on the third side of the frame. This can act to break the bridging elements 282, 283 for said planar aerosol-generating article 10 and thus allow the planar aerosol-generating article 10 to slide out of the frame assembly 281 .

[0457] Figure 30 shows a perspective view of a frame assembly 301 according to the present disclosure. The frame assembly 301 is similar to the frame assemblies previously described in respect of Figures 10 to 29. For example, frame assembly 301 also has a frame 102 and plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles 10 is disposed in a respective one of the plurality of cavities of the frame 102.

[0458] The frame assembly 301 also has a first protective layer 351 a comprises a plurality of separable portions 355. As can be best seen from the view of the first side of the frame assembly 301 in Figure 30, each separable portion 355 overlies a respective cavity and planar aerosolgenerating article 10 of the frame assembly 301. Each separable portion 355 is configured to be peeled away from its respective cavity and planar aerosol-generating article 10 to permit or enhance access to the planar aerosol-generating article disposed in its respective cavity. This is best seen from the top portion of Figure 30, where one of the separable portions 355 has been peeled back to expose a planar aerosol-generating article 10 in the cavity.

[0459] In the frame assembly 301 of Figure 30, each cavity and its respective planar aerosolgenerating article 10 is shaped and sized to define an access void 335 within the cavity. The access void 335 is an empty space within the cavity where the planar aerosol-generating article 10 does not reside. The access void 335 is configured to assist with removal of the planar aerosol generating article from the cavity, for example by allowing a user to insert their finger into the cavity to help remove the planar aerosol-generating article 10 from the cavity.

[0460] As seen in Figure 30, each access void 335 is located at an end of its respective cavity corresponding to a third side of the frame 102. As such, the access void 335 is open at the third side of the frame. This can help to further enhance the way a user can interact with the separable portion 355 at the end of the cavity. In particular, with the arrangement of Figure 30, a user is able to access an underside of the separable portion 355 by way of the opening in the third side of the frame. This allows the user to more easily grip both sides of the separable portion 355, and thus more easily move the separable portion 355 away from its respective cavity.

[0461] In the frame assembly 301 of Figure 30, each cavity and its respective planar aerosolgenerating article 10 is shaped and sized so that the planar aerosol-generating articles 10 cannot be removed through the openings in the third side of the frame. In particular, at least one dimension in each opening on the third side of the frame is smaller than a corresponding dimension of the planar aerosol-generating article 10 residing in the cavity of said opening. This contrasts with the arrangement of Figure 19, where the planar aerosol-generating articles 10 can slide out of said openings. The planar aerosol-generating articles 10 of Figure 30 are therefore instead to be removed via the first or second sides of the frame assembly 301 by way of the separable portions 355.

[0462] Figures 31 and 32 shows perspective views of a container 3155 comprising four frame assemblies according to the present disclosure, in respective open and closed conditions. Figure 33 shows a laminar blank 3165 for forming an outer housing of the container of Figures 31 and 32.

[0463] The container 3155 of Figures 31 and 32 has an outer housing having a plurality of walls enclosing the four frame assemblies. The outer housing of Figures 31 and 32 has a similar structure, size and shape to the outer housing of Figure 25. However, in the container 3155 of Figures 31 and 32, the third wall 3123 of the outer housing has a fourth panel 3134, in addition to the first panel 3131 , second panel 3132, and third panel 3133. A third hinge line 263 is also provided to connect the third panel 3133 of the third wall 3123 to the fourth panel 3134 of the third wall 3123.

[0464] As best seen from Figure 33 in combination with Figure 31 , the first wall 3121 of the outer housing is formed from two panels, namely a first wall inner panel 3121a, and a first wall outer panel 3121 b, which overlap when the laminar blank is folded. The outer housing of the container 3155 also comprises a fourth wall 3124. The fourth wall 3124 is a minor wall positioned opposite the third wall 3123. The fourth wall 3124 of the outer housing is formed from two panels, namely a fourth wall inner panel 3124a and a fourth wall outer panel 3124b, which overlap when the laminar blank is folded. The second wall 3122 is also formed from two panels, namely a second wall inner panel 3122a and a second wall outer panel 3122b, which overlap when the laminar blank is folded. However, the second wall panels 3122a, 3122b are not directly attached to one another. Instead, the second wall inner panel 3122a depends from the fourth wall inner panel 3124a and the second wall outer panel 3122b depends from the fourth wall outer panel 3214b.

[0465] As best seen from Figure 31 , a tab 3170 extends from the first wall 3121. The tab 3170 is created by a generally u-shaped cut line 3171 that extends from the fold line 3172 positioned between the first wall inner panel 3121a, and a first wall outer panel 3121 b. Put another way, the tab 3170 is initially part of the first wall inner panel 3121a, but becomes separated and delimited from the first wall inner panel 3121a by way of the u-shaped cut line 3171. In a similar manner, the laminar blank also comprises first and second connecting portions 3173a and 3173b, which are initially part of the first wall inner panel 3121a, but becomes separated and delimited from the first wall inner panel 3121a by way of respective cut lines 3174a, 3174b.

[0466] When the laminar blank 3165 is folded to form the assembled container 3155 of Figure 32, the first and second connecting portions 3173a and 3173b are affixed (for example by an adhesive) to the fourth wall inner panel 3124a. This has the effect of (at least temporarily) affixing the first wall 3121 of the outer housing to the fourth wall 3124 of the outer housing. The first and second connecting portions 3173a and 3173b can therefore help to keep the container 3155 in the closed position after initial manufacture of the container 3155. This can be facilitated by way of the cut lines 3174a and 3174b in the laminar blank 3165, since these cut lines 3174a and 3174b can help the connecting portions 3173a, 3173b to project away from the first wall 3121 of the outer housing, and thus extend towards the fourth wall 3124 of the outer housing, when the laminar blank 3165 is folded and the container 3155 assembled. Furthermore, as seen in Figure 33, the portion of the laminar blank 3165 which adjoins the first and second connecting portions 3173a, 3173b to the first wall outer panel 3121 b is configured as a line of weakness in the laminar blank 3165 to allow the first and second connecting portions 3173a, 3173b to be separated from the first wall outer panel 3121 b when a user wishes to open the container 3155 for the first time. In particular, this line of weakness 3176a, 3176b may take the form of a perforation line to allow these respective portions of the laminar blank 3165 to be torn away from one another. In the specific example shown in Figure 33, the line of weakness 3176a, 3176b for each connecting portion 3173a, 3173b comprises two relatively large cuts which extend either side of a smaller fold line in the laminar blank 3165. This configuration may therefore provide the container 3155 with a tamper indicator. It will be appreciated that, whilst the example of Figure 33 has been described with two connecting portions 3173a, 3173b, the example may instead adopt only one such connecting portion, or indeed more than two such connecting portions.

[0467] Returning now to Figures 31 and 32, it can be seen that the tab 3170 projects away from the first wall 3121 and is configured to interact with a corresponding slot 3175 in a fourth wall 3124 of the outer housing. In the specific example of Figures 31 , 32 and 33, the slot 3175 is formed by a cut out in the fourth wall outer panel 3124b. The tab 3170 and slot 3175 arrangement are designed to allow the container to be held in the closed position of Figure 32. In particular, the tab 3170 and slot 3175 arrangement can allow for the container 3155 to be repeatedly reclosed during use of the container 3155.

[0468] As can be seen in Figures 32 and 33, the container 3155 is also provided with a fifth wall 3125. The fifth wall 3125 is formed from a single panel 3125. The fifth wall 3125 is orthogonal to each of the first wall 3121 , second wall 3122, third wall 3123 and fourth wall 3124 of the outer housing. As can be seen in Figure 33, a flap or panel 3126 depends from a distal end of the panel forming the fifth wall 3125. This panel 3126 is configured to overlap with the second wall 3122 of the container 3155 when the laminar blank 3165 is folded to form the container 3155. In particular, in the specific example of Figures 31 to 33, the panel 3126 is configured to underlie the second wall 3122, and more specifically underlie the second wall inner panel 3122a, when the laminar blank 3165 is folded to form the container 3155. The panel 3126 can be affixed (for example by an adhesive) to the second wall 3122. This has the effect of (at least temporarily) affixing the fifth wall 3125 of the outer housing to the second wall 3122 of the outer housing. The panel 3126 can therefore help to keep the container 3155 in the closed position after initial manufacture of the container 3155.

[0469] Furthermore, as seen in Figure 33, the portion of the laminar blank 3165 which adjoins the fifth wall panel 3125 to the panel 3126 is configured as a line of weakness 3126a to allow the fifth wall 3125 to be separated from the second wall 3122 when a user wishes to open the container 3155 for the first time. In particular, this line of weakness 3126a may take the form of a perforation line to allow these respective portions of the laminar blank 3165 to be torn away from one another. In the specific example shown in Figure 33, the line of weakness 3126a for the panel 3126 comprises three relatively large cuts which extend either side of respective smaller fold lines in the laminar blank 3165. This configuration may therefore provide the container 3155 with a tamper indicator.

[0470] Additionally, as seen in Figure 33, the portion of the laminar blank 3165 which adjoins the fifth wall panel 3125 to the first wall outer panel 3121 b is configured as a line of weakness 3125a to allow the fifth wall 3125 to be separated from the first wall 3121 when a user wishes to open the container 3155 for the first time. In particular, this line of weakness 3125a may take the form of a perforation line to allow these respective portions of the laminar blank 3165 to be torn away from one another. In the specific example shown in Figure 33, the line of weakness 3125a for the panel 3125 comprises three relatively large cuts which extend either side of respective smaller fold lines in the laminar blank 3165. This configuration may therefore provide the container 3155 with a tamper indicator.

[0471] By having the combination of line of weakness 3125a and line of weakness 3126a, the fifth wall 3125 may be entirely removable from the container 3155. The fifth wall 3125 may be discarded after removal. This arrangement for the fifth wall 3125 may therefore allow the container to be securely held in a tamper-proof closed condition, whilst also ensuring the fifth wall 3125 does not become problematic for a user after first opening of the container 3155.

[0472] The above described arrangement of Figures 31 to 33 means that the same side of the laminar blank of Figure 33 is able to form the inner and outer surfaces of each of the first wall 3121 , second wall 3122 and fourth wall 3124 of the outer housing. Said side of the laminar blank can also form the outer surface of the third wall 3123 and fifth wall 3125 of the outer housing. This may provide benefits, such as manufacturing benefits, to the container. For example, it may provide benefits when seeking to provide said walls and surfaces of the with specific properties, such as visual features, including one or more printed features.

[0473] For the purpose of the present description and of the appended claims, except where otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing amounts, quantities, percentages, and so forth, are to be understood as being modified in all instances by the term "about". Also, all ranges include the maximum and minimum points disclosed and include any intermediate ranges therein, which may or may not be specifically enumerated herein. In this context, therefore, a number A is understood as A ± 10% of A. Within this context, a number A may be considered to include numerical values that are within general standard error for the measurement of the property that the number A modifies. The number A, in some instances as used in the appended claims, may deviate by the percentages enumerated above provided that the amount by which A deviates does not materially affect the basic and novel characteristic(s) of the claimed invention. Also, all ranges include the maximum and minimum points disclosed and include any intermediate ranges therein, which may or may not be specifically enumerated herein.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A frame assembly for planar aerosol-generating articles, the frame assembly comprising: a plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles; and a frame defining a plurality of cavities, wherein each planar aerosol-generating article is disposed in a respective one of the plurality of cavities of the frame.

2. A frame assembly according to claim 1 , wherein each planar aerosol-generating article has a first planar external surface, and wherein the frame has a first planar external surface, and wherein the first planar external surface of each planar aerosol-generating article is substantially co-planar with the first planar external surface of the frame.

3. A frame assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein each planar aerosolgenerating article comprises a first planar external layer, and wherein the frame comprises a first planar external layer.

4. A frame assembly according to claim 3, wherein the first planar external layer of each planar aerosol-generating article is formed of the same material as the first planar external layer of the frame.

5. A frame assembly according to any of claims 3 or 4 when dependent on claim 2, wherein the first planar external surface of each planar aerosol-generating article is formed by its respective first planar external layer, and wherein the first planar external surface of the frame is formed by the first planar external layer of the frame.

6. A frame assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein each cavity extends from an opening in a first side of the frame.

7. A frame assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein each cavity and its respective planar aerosol-generating article are shaped and sized to define an access void within the cavity for assisting with removal of the planar aerosol generating article from the cavity.

8. Aframe assembly according to any preceding claim, further comprising a protective layer extending over a first side of the frame and a corresponding first side of the plurality of planar aerosol-generating articles.

9. A frame assembly according to claim 8, wherein the protective layer comprises a plurality of separable portions, each separable portion overlying a respective opening and planar aerosol-generating article of the frame assembly.

10. A container of planar aerosol-generating articles, the container comprising: a frame assembly according to any of claims 1 to 9; and an outer housing at least partially enclosing the frame assembly, the outer housing comprising a first wall overlying a first side of the frame assembly.

11. A container according to claim 10, wherein the outer housing further comprises a second wall and at least one hinge line disposed between the first wall and the second wall, and wherein the second wall is configured to be moved relative to the first wall about the at least one hinge line between: a first position, in which the second wall is positioned opposite to the first wall to inhibit access to the frame assembly; and a second position, in which the second wall has been moved away from the first wall to enhance access to the frame assembly.

12. A container according to claim 11 , wherein the outer housing further comprises a third wall, the third wall extending from the first wall to the second wall to connect the first wall with the second wall, and wherein the third wall of the outer housing is connected to one of the first wall and the second wall of the outer housing by the at least one hinge line.

13. A container according to claim 12, wherein the third wall of the outer housing comprises a first panel and a second panel, and wherein the at least one hinge line comprises a first hinge line connecting the first panel of the third wall to the second panel of the third wall.

14. A container according to claim 10, wherein the outer housing comprises: a box portion at least partially containing the frame assembly; and a lid portion, wherein the box portion has an access opening, and wherein the lid portion is configured to move between: a closed position, in which the lid portion covers the access opening; andan open position, in which one or more planar aerosol-generating articles of the frame assembly can be removed through the access opening.

15. A container according to claim 14, wherein the frame assembly is removable from the outer housing through the access opening of the box portion when the lid portion is in the open position.

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