Receiving device for storing cigars

Abstract

The invention relates to a receiving device (9) for vertically storing cigars in a storage unit (10) for cigars, preferably in a humidor, comprising an upper side (91), a lower side (92), and at least one continuous opening (93) for receiving a single cigar in each case, - wherein the opening (93) extends in each case from the upper side (91) of the receiving device (9) to the lower side (92) of the receiving device (9) and has a lateral surface (94), and - wherein the height (h) of the lateral surface (94) of the opening (93) is greater than or equal to 100% of the longest dimension (a) of the cross-sectional area of the opening (93).

Description

[0001] Storage device for cigars

[0002] The invention relates to a receiving device for the vertical storage of cigars in a storage unit for cigars according to claim 1, and a storage unit for cigars with such a receiving device according to claim 12.

[0003] Various storage units for cigars are known from the prior art. One example of such a storage unit for long-term storage is a humidor, a container in which tobacco products can be stored under favorable climatic conditions. Known humidors generally consist of a wooden box with a lid, into which the tobacco products are placed. Due to the material properties of the wood used, a certain degree of climate regulation occurs inside the box. The use of special humidification devices is known to further influence the humidity. Various holding devices are also known for such storage units, into which the tobacco products to be stored are placed or inserted for safekeeping within the unit or humidor.

[0004] US Patent 6006903 B1 discloses a square, box-shaped humidor in which cigars can be stored vertically. For this purpose, a cigar holder with two levels is arranged inside the humidor. The first level comprises a drawer into which humectant can be placed. Above the drawer is a base with holes that narrow towards the drawer, allowing the end of a cigar to be inserted while humidified air from the drawer can rise. The second level consists of a grid-like rack that supports the other end of the cigars. Furthermore, EP 1949807 A2 discloses a humidor insert for a known, box-shaped table humidor.The humidor insert comprises two or more retaining walls connected by rod-like connecting elements, so that openings arranged in the retaining walls face each other, allowing cigars to be inserted into the openings and supported by the retaining walls. The humidor insert can be placed vertically or horizontally inside the humidor. US Patent 6,047,701 B1 also discloses a tray-like insert for humidors with elongated recesses for holding cigars. The cigars are stored horizontally in the insert. The recesses have narrow slits through which humidified air comes into contact with the cigars.

[0005] However, a disadvantage of the known holding devices or storage units with such holding devices is that the known holding devices for humidors usually do not allow for all-around humidification of the cigars, so that the cigars have to be turned regularly in the humidor, that the known holding devices do not support the cigars sufficiently, so that their shape can change in an undesirable way, and that the known holding devices are difficult to adapt to different cigar lengths.

[0006] The object of the invention is therefore to remedy this situation and to provide a receiving device for a storage unit for cigars or a storage unit with such a receiving device, which overcomes the known disadvantages, is simple in design and at the same time enables adequate storage of cigars in which the originally contained moisture and shape of the cigars are preserved.

[0007] The invention solves this problem with a receiving device for the vertical storage of cigars in a storage unit for cigars, preferably in a humidor, according to claim 1. According to the invention, the receiving device comprises a top, a bottom and at least one through opening for receiving a single tobacco product, wherein the opening extends from the top of the receiving device to the bottom of the receiving device and has a lateral surface, and wherein the height of the lateral surface of the opening is greater than or equal to 100% of the longest dimension of the cross-sectional area of ​​the opening, in particular an integer or decimal multiple > 1 of the longest dimension of the cross-sectional area of ​​the opening.

[0008] The fact that the opening extends from the top to the bottom of the receiving device and has a lateral surface means that the opening runs straight through the receiving device, the cross-sectional area of ​​the opening is the same on both the top and bottom, and the receiving device is a continuous, solid body into which one or more openings for cigars have been incorporated. This allows cigars to be stored advantageously vertically / standing upright, with the lateral surface of the receiving device surrounding the cigars—at least partially—and supporting each cigar completely at a 360° angle along its lateral surface, thus preserving the shape of the stored cigars. Furthermore, the fact that the cigars are completely surrounded by the receiving device has a positive effect on their moisture content and prevents them from drying out excessively.

[0009] The surface area of ​​the opening is understood to be the area surrounding the opening. The height of the surface area of ​​the opening is greater than or equal to 100% of the longest dimension of the cross-sectional area of ​​the opening. Since the opening extends from the top of the receiving device to its underside, the height of the receiving device is also greater than or equal to 100% of the longest dimension of the cross-sectional area of ​​the opening.

[0010] In the context of this invention, a multiple is understood to mean not only an integer multiple, but also a decimal multiple. That is, in the context of this invention, decimal numbers are also considered multiples.

[0011] Further advantageous embodiments of a receiving device according to the invention are described in the dependent claims.

[0012] According to an advantageous embodiment of a receiving device according to the invention, the longest dimension of the cross-sectional area of ​​the opening can be a diameter, a principal axis, a diagonal, or a height. In this way, an opening for the receiving device can be selected that is ideally matched to the diameter of the cigars to be stored.

[0013] According to an advantageous embodiment of a receiving device according to the invention, the height of the outer surface of the opening can be 150% to 2000%, preferably 200% to 400%, of the longest dimension of the cross-sectional area of ​​the opening, or 1.5 to 20 times, preferably 2 to 4 times, of the longest dimension of the cross-sectional area of ​​the opening. In this way, an opening for the receiving device can be selected that is ideally matched to the length of the cigars to be stored. This means that the height of the outer surface of the advantageous embodiment is greater than the longest dimension of the cross-sectional area of ​​the opening, namely greater than or equal to 1.5 times the longest dimension, or greater than or equal to 1.5 times the longest dimension.According to an advantageous embodiment of a receiving device according to the invention, it can be provided that the volume of the receiving device calculated on the basis of the base area of ​​the receiving device is between 150% and 700% of the volume of an opening of the receiving device, in particular that the ratio of the volume of an opening of the receiving device to the volume of the receiving device calculated on the basis of the base area of ​​the receiving device corresponds to a ratio of 1:1.5 to 1:10, in particular 1:2, 1:3, 1:4, 1:5, 1:6 or 1:7.

[0014] To enable the simple and reversible connection or stacking of multiple holding devices, it can be provided that at least one magnet, and in particular several magnets, are arranged on the top and / or bottom of the holding device to create a reversibly detachable magnetic connection with at least one other similar holding device. By stacking or connecting multiple holding devices, it is advantageously possible to adapt the holding device to the length of the cigars to be stored, so that even longer cigars are reliably supported.

[0015] Particularly simple stacking or joining, which effectively prevents gaps or spaces from forming between the receiving devices to be joined, where the cigars would be unsupported, can be achieved if the at least one magnet is inserted in a recess on the top and / or bottom of the receiving device and is flush with the surface of the top and / or the surface of the bottom, preferably having a circular cross-sectional area and / or being cylindrical.

[0016] Particularly easy insertion of cigars into several interconnected receiving devices with a particularly good support effect can be achieved if, with a reversibly detachable magnetic connection between several identical receiving devices, the openings of the receiving device are arranged axially one behind the other and corresponding to each other.

[0017] To enable the adaptation of a holding device according to the invention to a wide variety of humidors and to be subsequently installed in them, the holding device may have a rectangular, in particular square or rectangular, or a circular or elliptical base. Particularly good support combined with particularly effective protection against drying out can be ensured if at least one opening of the holding device has a circular cross-sectional area.

[0018] In order to adapt a receiving device according to the invention to humidors of various sizes and to different numbers of cigars to be stored, it can be provided that the receiving device has several, in particular four, five or nine, openings.

[0019] According to a particularly advantageous embodiment of a holding device according to the invention, the holding device may comprise, and in particular consist of, wood, especially Spanish cedar and / or okoume wood. Completely encasing cigars in wood, particularly special types of wood such as Spanish cedar or okoume, ideally on a 360° basis, offers several advantages: On the one hand, the wood has a positive effect on the moisture content of the cigars, since wood, especially Spanish cedar, can absorb and release moisture, thus eliminating the need for time-consuming, repeated turning of the cigars while still ensuring optimal humidification. On the other hand, Spanish cedar wood, for example, possesses insect-repellent properties and is therefore particularly suitable for preventing infestation by the tobacco beetle.Furthermore, the wood of the Spanish cedar is resistant to mold and other fungi, and preserves the flavor of the cigars for a particularly long time. In the context of the invention, "consisting of" means that the holding device is made of wood, so that the holding device is a solid wooden body into which the openings have been made, for example, drilled, and the positive properties of the wood are fully transferred to the cigars stored therein for optimal storage and preservation of their properties.

[0020] The further object of the invention is to provide a storage unit for cigars that is compact in design and easy to transport, while simultaneously enabling adequate storage of cigars in which the originally contained moisture and shape of the cigars are preserved.

[0021] The invention solves this problem with a storage unit, in particular a humidor, for storing cigars according to claim 12. According to the invention, the storage unit comprises the following: - an interior space surrounded by a wall surface for receiving the cigars,

[0022] - a receiving chamber in atmospheric exchange with the interior for receiving a humidity regulating agent, and

[0023] - at least one receiving device according to the invention, wherein the receiving device can be reversibly inserted into the interior of the storage unit.

[0024] With a storage unit designed in this way, all the advantages and technical effects previously mentioned in connection with a receiving device according to the invention can be utilized, while a storage unit according to the invention as a whole manages with a compact and simple design and is therefore easily transportable.

[0025] Particularly secure storage of the cigars in the storage unit can be achieved if the receiving device is snug-fitting to the interior, especially the wall surface of the interior, of the storage unit.

[0026] An adjustment option for different cigar lengths can be created in a storage unit according to the invention by ensuring that the usable height of the interior, particularly of an inner container, is greater than or equal to 100%, more specifically 150% to 500%, preferably 200% to 300%, of the height of the surface of the receiving device (9). In particular, the height of the interior can be an integer or decimal multiple, more specifically 1.5 to 5 times, preferably 2 or 3 times, of the height of the receiving device. In the context of the invention, the usable height of the interior of the storage unit is understood to be the height of the interior excluding, for example, protrusions in the base that extend into the interior.

[0027] In this context, a particularly advantageous preservation of the shape of longer cigars can be provided if at least two receiving devices according to the invention are inserted into the interior.

[0028] To maintain a constant internal atmosphere within the storage unit, the wall surface may be designed to have a number of air exchange openings for atmospheric exchange between the interior and the receiving chamber, so that a uniform internal atmosphere with a specific humidity level can be maintained in both the interior and the receiving chamber. According to a particularly user-friendly embodiment of a storage unit according to the invention, which maintains a constant humidity level in the cigars stored therein and simultaneously allows for easy insertion of the humidity-sensitive cigars into the storage unit, it may be provided that an outer container with a closed outer wall and an open top is provided, and that the interior and the wall surface are parts of an inner container.that the interior is enclosed by the wall surface of the inner container, wherein the inner container can be reversibly inserted into the outer container, wherein the inner container includes a filling opening and the filling opening of the inner container is directed upwards towards the top of the outer container and an intermediate space is formed between the outer container and the inner container as a receiving space for inserting a moisture regulating agent, and that the at least one opening of the receiving device is directed upwards towards the top of the outer container and towards the filling opening.

[0029] According to a particularly preferred embodiment of a storage unit according to the invention, which protects the cigars to be stored particularly effectively from air, odors and contamination penetrating the storage unit, it can be provided that a reversibly removable cover frame is provided, which can be placed on the outer container and the inner container, wherein the cover frame is designed to cover the opening of the space formed between the outer container and the inner container, and wherein a frame opening for access to the interior is provided in the cover frame, that a reversibly removable inner closure lid, in particular separate from the inner closure lid, is provided, which can be placed on the cover frame to close the frame opening, and that a removable outer closure lid is provided for airtight sealing of the outer container or the top of the outer container.

[0030] The double-lid system, designed like an airlock, ensures that the storage unit is protected from air, moisture, and odors by the outer lid, while the humidity control device, such as a bag or packet filled with desiccant, maintains a constant humidity level inside the unit. The inner lid prevents the stored cigars from being exposed to the ambient atmosphere should the outer lid be accidentally removed.

[0031] In order to create a constant internal atmosphere in the storage unit, the air exchange openings can be designed to allow atmospheric exchange between the interior and the space between the two, so that a uniform internal atmosphere with a specific humidity level can be set in both the interior and the space between the two.

[0032] Another embodiment of the invention, which offers a possibility of using microperforations as an alternative to the air exchange openings, can be provided if the wall surface has at least one recess with a perforated layer element covering the recess in which the air exchange openings are arranged.

[0033] In order to permanently and stably attach the perforated layer elements to the inner container, in particular it is provided that the inner container is formed by a frame construction, wherein the inner container has recesses on each of its side surfaces on which perforated layer elements are arranged.

[0034] Particularly easy insertion and removal of the inner container for storing the humidity-sensitive cigars into and out of the storage unit, while maintaining a high degree of consistency in the overall atmospheric humidity, can be ensured by making the interior and / or the receiving space and / or outer containers and / or the inner container cuboid or cylindrical.

[0035] Particularly fine perforations can be used for air exchange between the interior and the space between the layers if the perforated layer elements are made of a steel alloy.

[0036] A particularly corrosion-resistant and simultaneously lightweight design of the storage unit can be ensured if the wall surface, especially the wall surface of the inner container, and / or the outer container and / or the outer lid and / or the inner lid are made of tinplate or sheet metal. The invention further relates to a storage unit particularly suitable as a compact travel humidor for storing cigars, which simultaneously utilizes the aforementioned advantages and technical effects of a storage unit or a receiving device according to the invention, comprising

[0037] - an outer container with a closed outer wall, a top where the outer container is open and a bottom where a closed base is arranged,

[0038] - an inner container with an interior, a wall surface with a number of air exchange openings, a filling opening and a closed bottom, wherein the inner container can be reversibly inserted into the outer container, wherein the filling opening of the inner container is directed upwards towards the top of the outer container and a space is formed between the outer container and the inner container for inserting a moisture regulating agent,

[0039] - at least one receiving device according to the invention, wherein the receiving device can be reversibly inserted into the interior of the inner container, wherein the at least one opening of the receiving device is directed upwards towards the top of the outer container and towards the filling opening,

[0040] - a reversibly removable cover frame that can be placed on the outer container and the inner container, wherein the cover frame is designed to cover the opening of the space formed between the outer container and the inner container, and wherein the cover frame has a frame opening for access to the interior,

[0041] - a reversibly removable inner closure cover, in particular separate from the inner closure cover, which can be placed on the cover frame to close the frame opening and

[0042] - a removable outer lid for airtight sealing of the outer container or the top of the outer container.

[0043] Further advantages and embodiments of the invention will become apparent from the description and the accompanying drawings. The invention is schematically illustrated below with reference to particularly advantageous, but not limiting, embodiments in the drawings and is described by way of example. The following are shown schematically:

[0044] Fig. 1 shows a first perspective view of an embodiment of a recording device according to the invention,

[0045] Fig. 2 shows a second perspective view of the embodiment from Fig. 1 ,

[0046] Fig. 3 shows a first perspective sectional view through the embodiment from Fig. 1 ,

[0047] Fig. 4 shows a second perspective sectional view through the embodiment from Fig. 1 ,

[0048] Fig. 5 is a top view of the embodiment from Fig. 1 inserted into the storage unit from Fig. 8, Fig. 6 is a first sectional view through the embodiment from Fig. 1 ,

[0049] Fig. 7 a second sectional view through the embodiment from Fig. 1, Fig. 8 an exploded view of an embodiment of a storage unit according to the invention, Fig. 9 an oblique view of the embodiment from Fig. 8, Fig. 10 a second exploded view of the embodiment from Fig. 8,

[0050] Fig. 10a shows a detailed view of the embodiment shown in Fig. 8.

[0051] Figures 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8 show various perspective views of an embodiment of a receiving device 9 according to the invention for storing cigars in a storage unit 10 for cigars or a humidor. An embodiment of a storage unit 10 according to the invention will be discussed in more detail below.

[0052] In the exemplary embodiment, the holding device 9 is block-shaped with a square base and made from a solid piece of Spanish cedar. Alternatively, other woods, such as okoume, can be used. Of course, several types of wood can also be combined. Other materials that preserve the flavor of cigars while absorbing and releasing moisture as needed would also be suitable. Spanish cedar, in particular, has a very positive effect on the humidity level of the cigars being stored, as it can absorb and release moisture, thus eliminating the need for time-consuming, repeated turning of the cigars while still ensuring optimal humidification.This humidifying effect is particularly effective in a receiving device 9 according to the invention, since the stored cigars, with appropriate selection of the cross-sectional shape and height h of the outer surface 94 of the openings 93 or of the receiving device 9, are almost completely surrounded by the receiving device 9, i.e., 360° along the outer surface of the cigars; only at the two ends of the cigar is there no wood. Furthermore, the wood of the Spanish cedar possesses insect-repellent properties, is therefore particularly suitable for preventing infestation by the tobacco beetle, and is resistant to mold and other fungi, thus preserving the flavor of the cigars for a particularly long period.

[0053] The shape of the base of the receiving device 9 is not decisive for the technical effects or advantages of a receiving device 9 according to the invention. The only essential requirement is that the receiving device 9 is a solid block or body. Depending on the humidor in which the receiving device 9 is to be used, elliptical, rectangular, or other base shapes can be selected, for example.

[0054] In the exemplary embodiment, the receiving device 9 has five circular openings 93 located between the upper surface 91 and the lower surface 92 of the receiving device 9. However, the number of openings 93 is not crucial for the functionality of the receiving device 9 and can be selected depending on the size of the storage unit 10 or humidor. Circular openings 93 are particularly suitable for storing cigars, as this shape can be precisely matched to the diameter of the cigars, resulting in only a minimal air space or gap between the cigar and the surface of the opening 93. Of course, openings with other cross-sectional shapes can also be provided.

[0055] The height h of the cylindrical surface 94 of each opening 93, that is, the height of the receiving device 9 between the upper surface 91 and the lower surface 92, is, in a receiving device 9 according to the invention, greater than or equal to 100% of the longest dimension a of the cross-sectional area of ​​the opening 93, or an integer or decimal multiple of the longest dimension a of the cross-sectional area of ​​the opening 93. Thus, in the exemplary embodiment, the height h of the cylindrical surface 94 of the openings 93 corresponds to 2.5 times or 250% of the longest dimension a, i.e., the diameter, of an opening 93. The volume of the receiving device 9, i.e., the volume calculated from the base area x height h of the cylindrical surface 94, is larger than the volume of a single opening 93, for example, twice or three times as large. Of course, it is also possible for the volume of the receiving device 9 to be a decimal multiple of the volume of a single opening 93.

[0056] As can be seen in Figures 1, 2, 3, 4, and 6, four cylindrical recesses 95 with a circular cross-section are arranged on the upper surface 91 of the receiving device 9. The depth of these recesses corresponds to approximately 1 / 10 of the height h of the lateral surface 94. A cylindrical magnet with a circular cross-section is inserted into each of these recesses 95. The magnets are flush with the surface of the upper surface 91 and do not protrude.

[0057] When the upper surface of another identical receiving device, designed as described above, is brought into contact with the upper surface 91 of the receiving device 9 shown, the magnets attract each other, creating a reversibly detachable magnetic connection between the two receiving devices. There is practically no gap or space between the two connected receiving devices, as the magnets are flush with the surface of their respective upper surfaces. The openings of the two receiving devices are positioned one above the other, i.e., axially one behind the other, and corresponding to each other. Of course, further such magnets can also be arranged on the underside 92 of the receiving device.

[0058] In this way it is possible to stack two or more – provided at least one of the holding devices has magnets on the top and bottom – on top of each other, thus adjusting the overall height of the holding devices to the cigar length of the cigars to be stored or the height of the humidor into which the holding devices are inserted.

[0059] Figures 5, 8, 9, and 10 further show an embodiment of a storage unit 10 according to the invention for storing cigars, into which one or more storage units 9 according to the invention can be reversibly inserted. In the embodiment, the storage unit 10 or humidor comprises the following: an outer container 1 with a closed outer wall 11, a top 101 where the outer container 1 is open, and a bottom 102 where a closed base 12 is arranged; an inner container 2 with an interior space 7, a wall surface 25 with a number of air exchange openings 28, a filling opening 201, and a closed base 21, wherein the inner container 2 can be reversibly inserted into the outer container 1.wherein the filling opening 201 of the inner container 2 is directed upwards towards the top 101 of the outer container 1 and an intermediate space 3 for inserting a moisture regulating agent 31 is formed between the outer container 1 and the inner container 2, at least one previously described receiving device according to the invention, wherein the receiving device can be reversibly inserted into the interior 7 of the inner container 2, and wherein the at least one opening of the receiving device is directed upwards towards the top 101 of the outer container 1 and towards the filling opening 201, - a reversibly removable, on the outer container 1 and the inner,

[0060] Container 2, a cover frame 4, wherein the cover frame 4 is designed to cover the opening 32 of the space 3 formed between the outer container 1 and the inner container 2, and wherein a frame opening 41 for access to the interior 7 is provided in the cover frame 4, a reversibly removable inner closure cover 5, in particular separate from the inner closure cover 5, which can be placed on the cover frame 4 to close the frame opening 41, and a removable outer closure cover 6 for airtight sealing of the outer container 1 or the top 101 of the outer container 1.

[0061] These individual components will be discussed in more detail below.

[0062] In the embodiment shown in Figs. 5, 8, 9, and 10, the storage unit 10 according to the invention comprises an outer container 1, an inner container 2, a cover frame 4, an inner lid 5, and an outer lid 6. The outer container 1 has a closed outer wall 11, a top surface 101 which faces upwards during normal operation, and a bottom surface 102 which faces downwards during normal operation. The outer container 1 is open at the top surface 101 and has an upper edge 14. A closed bottom 12 is arranged on the bottom surface 102 of the outer container 1. In the illustrated embodiment, the outer container 1 has a square cross-sectional area, such that the outer wall 11 of the outer container 1 comprises four outer wall surfaces 11a.

[0063] The inner container 2 has an interior space 7 for holding humidity-sensitive cigars. In the exemplary embodiment, the inner container 2 further comprises a wall surface 25 with a number of air exchange openings 28 and a closed bottom 21. The air exchange openings 28 are shown in detail in Fig. 9 and depicted as black dots in Figs. 8 and 10. The air exchange openings 28 are designed for atmospheric exchange between the interior space 7 and the intermediate space 3, so that a uniform internal atmosphere with a specific humidity level can be maintained in the interior space 7 and the intermediate space 3. A filling opening 201 is arranged opposite the closed bottom 21 of the inner container 2, the filling opening 201 being bounded by a finishing edge 27.

[0064] In Fig. 5, a receiving device 9 according to the invention, as previously described in detail, is inserted into the interior 7. The receiving device 9 can be conveniently inserted into and removed from the inner container 2 or the interior 7 through the filling opening 201. The receiving device 9 is snug-fitting to the interior 7 of the storage unit 10 or to its wall surface 26, so that the receiving device 9 cannot slip within the storage unit 10, which could damage the cigars being stored.

[0065] In the first embodiment, the inner container 2 has a square cross-sectional area, so that the wall surface 25 is divided into four side surfaces 26. Each of the side surfaces 26 of the inner container 2 has a recess 23 in which perforated layer elements 24 are arranged, the inner container 2 being designed as a frame structure.

[0066] In the first embodiment, the perforated layer elements 24 are made of a steel alloy and have a large number of air exchange openings 28, while the frame construction of the inner container 2 and the outer container 1 are made of tinplate. This material is cost-effective and, compared to known wooden humidors, offers exceptional resistance to moisture and also provides the humidor with mechanical robustness against impacts and the like, making the described humidor according to the invention particularly advantageous as a travel humidor. In combination with the previously described storage devices 9 made of Spanish cedar wood, the wood's beneficial properties for cigar storage can still be utilized without having to manufacture the entire humidor from wood.

[0067] In the exemplary embodiment of the receiving device 10, connecting elements 8 are provided in the base 12 of the outer container 1 and in the base 21 of the inner container 2 to create a reversibly detachable functional connection between the outer container 1 and the inner container 2. The connecting elements 8 are designed as recesses – optionally with undercuts – arranged centrally in the base 12 of the outer container 1 and in the base 21 of the inner container 2, i.e., as mechanical connecting elements. However, such connecting elements 8 are not strictly necessary. As an alternative to such connecting elements 8, the distance between the outer container 1 and the inner container 2 can also be adjusted, for example, by means of a cover frame 4 described below.

[0068] If required, for example, when storing relatively long cigars, several storage devices 9 can be stacked using the magnetic connection described above and inserted into the interior 7. For this purpose, the usable height of the interior 7, i.e., the height excluding any connecting elements 8 or other indentations in the base 21 that reduce the interior 7, is selected such that it is greater than or at least equal to 100% of the longest dimension a of the cross-sectional area of ​​the opening 93, or corresponds to an integer or decimal multiple of the height h of the storage device 9 or the surface area 94. In the illustrated embodiment, the usable height of the interior 7 is selected such that it is three times the height h of the surface area 94 of the storage device 9, allowing up to three identical storage devices 9 to be stacked on top of each other.

[0069] The storage unit 10 further comprises a reversibly removable cover frame 4 that can be placed on the outer container 1 and the inner container 2. The cover frame 4 extends circumferentially along the outer container 1 and the inner container 2 and is designed to cover the opening 32 of the space 3 formed between the outer container 1 and the inner container 2. The cover frame 4 has a frame opening 41 for access to the interior 7, which leaves the filling opening 201 of the inner container 2 unobstructed. The cover frame 4 is designed with two steps and has a first step 421 that engages with the inner container 2, thus forming a first circumferential support surface 42. The support surface 42 can be placed on the end edge 27 of the inner container 2.The cover frame 4 further comprises a second step 431 that engages in the outer container 2, thereby forming a second circumferential support surface 43. The second support surface 43 can be placed on the upper edge 14 of the outer container 1.

[0070] By arranging an inner container 2 with perforated layer elements 24, in which air exchange openings 28 are provided, in an outer container 1, it is ensured that the moisture-sensitive cigars are safely stored in the interior 7 of the inner container 2, without any contact with the moisture regulating agent 31 in the space 3 or the outer container 1 being possible.

[0071] The air exchange openings 28 ensure an equalization of air and humidity between the inner container 1 and the space 3 containing the humidity regulator 31. This allows for a uniform internal atmosphere and a specific humidity level to be set in the interior 7, enabling adequate storage of the humidity-sensitive cigars. The air exchange openings 28 are designed to be small enough that no humidity regulator 31 can enter the interior 7 when a granular humidity regulator 31 is used.

[0072] The cover frame 4 further ensures that the humidity regulator 31 can be replaced without having to remove or touch the cigars inside the interior 7 of the inner container 2.

[0073] As shown in Fig. 9, up to four sachets of humidity control agent 31 can be placed in the space 3 of the storage unit 10 along the wall surfaces 11a or the side surfaces 26. This allows, for example, the desired humidity level to be adjusted by varying the number of sachets of humidity control agent 31, and ensures a uniform internal atmosphere over a longer period. Alternatively, granular humidity control agent 31 can also be filled into the space 3.

[0074] In the exemplary embodiment, the storage unit 10 further comprises a reversibly removable inner closure lid 5, which can be placed on the cover frame 4. The closure lid 5 serves to close the frame opening 41 or the filling opening 201 of the inner container 2. In the closed state, the closure lid 5 rests on the first circumferential support surface 42.

[0075] In the first embodiment, the storage unit 10 further comprises a removable outer lid 6 for closing the outer container 1 or the top 101 of the outer container 1. The outer lid 6 seals the outer container 1 in an airtight and, if necessary, watertight manner, so that no humidity or odors can penetrate the storage unit 10 and damage the stored moisture-sensitive cigars.

[0076] In the first embodiment, the outer closure cover 6 is designed to be particularly airtight and, if necessary, watertight by having a seal 61 on the side facing the interior 7, which is spread against a cover element 62 in the outer closure cover 6. In the embodiment, the cover element 62 has a crimped edge 67 that spreads against the first seal 61 and the second bearing surface 43 of the cover frame 4.

[0077] For ease of use, the lid may have 5 handles and / or the outer lid may have 6 handles or similar features.

[0078] Figure 9 shows an example of the arrangement of a bag containing a humidity regulator in the space 3. Figure 9 further shows that layer elements 24 with air exchange openings 28 in the form of microperforations are arranged at the recesses 23 of the side surfaces 26. These microperforations are fine enough to retain even the smallest particles of the humidity regulator 31 in the space 3, preventing them from entering the interior 7. However, an exchange of air and moisture between the interior 7 and the space 3 containing the humidity regulator 31 is easily possible.

[0079] In the illustrated embodiment, recesses 23 are provided in all side surfaces 26 of the inner container 2, and perforated layer elements 24, which close the recesses 23, are arranged, thus ensuring optimal atmospheric exchange between the interior 7 and the space 31. Alternatively, for example, only two side surfaces 26 can have recesses 23 with perforated layer elements 24, or air exchange openings 28 can be arranged directly in the wall surface 25 of the inner container 2. Fig. 10a shows a detailed cross-sectional view of a recess 23 in a side surface 26 of the inner container 2. It can be seen that a perforated layer element 24 is fixed to the side surface 26 and closes the recess 23 in the side surface 26.

[0080] The perforated layer elements 24 are made of a steel alloy that readily allows for the production of microperforations. In the first embodiment, the outer container 1 and the wall surface 25 of the inner container 2 are made of tinplate. The outer closure lid 6 and / or the inner closure lid 5 are also made of tinplate.

[0081] Fig. 9 further shows that the cover frame 4, in the assembled state of the storage unit 10, completely covers the opening 32 of the space 3 formed between the outer container 1 and the inner container 2.

[0082] Fig. 9 further shows how the connecting elements 8 of the outer container 1 and the inner container 2 interlock to center and lock the inner container 2 within the outer container 1. This prevents the inner container 2 from rotating within the outer container 1, and, for example, pouches containing moisture control agent 31 are housed in a consistently wide gap 3, allowing for easy insertion and removal of the moisture control agent 31. However, such connecting elements 8 are not strictly necessary. As an alternative to these connecting elements 8, the distance between the outer container 1 and the inner container 2 can also be adjusted, for example, by means of the cover frame 4, so that a consistently wide gap 3 is maintained when the cover frame 4 is in place.

[0083] Although a very specially designed humidor for cigars with one or more inventive receiving devices used therein was previously described, which is particularly suitable as a travel humidor and yet enables the best possible storage of the cigars under consistently favorable atmospheric conditions over the long term, so that the aroma and moisture of the cigars are preserved.

[0084] In general, however, any humidor can be equipped with one or more receiving devices 9 according to the invention, so that the advantages of a receiving device 9 according to the invention can be used in any humidor, as long as the humidor has an interior space surrounded by a wall surface in which one or more receiving devices 9 can be inserted, as well as a receiving space for a humidity regulating agent which is in atmospheric exchange with the interior space.

Claims

Claim 1. Receiving device (9) for vertical storage of cigars in a Storage unit (10) for cigars, preferably in a humidor, comprising a top (91), a bottom (92), and at least one through opening (93) for receiving a single cigar, wherein the opening (93) extends from the top (91) of the receiving device (9) to the bottom (92) of the receiving device (9) and has a lateral surface (94), and wherein the height (h) of the lateral surface (94) of the opening (93) is greater than or equal to 100% of the longest dimension (a) of the cross-sectional area of ​​the opening (93).

2. Receiving device (9) according to claim 1, characterized in that the longest dimension (a) of the cross-sectional area of ​​the opening (93) is a diameter, a principal axis, a diagonal, or a height.

3. Receiving device (9) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the height (h) of the lateral surface of the opening (93) is 150% to 2000%, preferably 200% to 400% of the longest dimension (a) of the cross-sectional area of ​​the opening (93).

4. Receiving device (9) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the volume of the receiving device (9) calculated on the basis of the base area of ​​the receiving device (9) is between 150% and 700% of the The volume of an opening (93) of the receiving device (9) is, in particular, that the ratio of the volume of an opening (93) of the receiving device (9) to the volume of the receiving device (9) calculated on the basis of the base area of ​​the receiving device (9) corresponds to a ratio of 1 :1 ,5 to 1 :10, preferably 1 :2, 1 :3, 1 :4, 1 :5, 1 :6 or 1 :

7.

5. Receiving device (9) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one magnet, in particular several magnets, is arranged on the top (91) and / or the bottom (92) of the receiving device (9) to produce a reversibly detachable magnetic connection with at least one further similar receiving device (9).

6. Receiving device (9) according to claim 5, characterized in that the at least one magnet is inserted in a recess (95) on the top (91) and / or the bottom (92) of the receiving device (9) and is flush with the surface of the top (91) and / or the surface of the bottom (92), wherein it is preferably provided that the at least one magnet has a circular cross-sectional area and / or is cylindrical.

7. Receiving device (9) according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that, in the case of a reversibly detachable magnetic connection between several similar receiving devices, the openings of the receiving device are arranged axially one behind the other and corresponding to each other.

8. Receiving device (9) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the receiving device (9) has a quadrangular, in particular square or rectangular, or a circular or elliptical base.

9. Receiving device (9) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one opening (93) of the receiving device (9) has a circular cross-sectional area.

10. Receiving device (9) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the receiving device (9) has several, in particular four, five or nine, openings (93).

11. Receiving device (9) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the receiving device (9) comprises, and in particular consists of, wood, in particular Spanish cedar and / or okoume wood.

12. Storage unit (10), in particular humidor, for storing cigars comprising - an interior space (7) surrounded by a wall surface (25) for holding the cigars, - a receiving chamber in atmospheric exchange with the interior (7) for receiving a humidity regulating agent (31), and - at least one receiving device (9) according to one of claims 1 to 1 1 , wherein the receiving device (9) can be reversibly inserted into the interior (7) of the storage unit (10).

13. Storage unit (10) according to claim 12, characterized in that the receiving device (9) is adapted to fit the interior (7), in particular the wall surface (25) of the interior (7), of the storage unit (10).

14. Storage unit (10) according to one of claims 12 or 13, characterized in that the height of the interior space (7), in particular of an inner container (2), which is freely usable, is greater than or equal to 100%, in particular 150% to 500%, preferably 200% to 300% of the height (h) of the surface area (94) of the receiving device (9).

15. Storage unit (10) according to one of claims 12 to 14, characterized in that the wall surface (25) has a number of air exchange openings designed for atmospheric exchange between the interior (7) and the receiving space, so that a uniform internal atmosphere with a specific degree of humidity can be set in the interior (7) and in the receiving space.

16. Storage unit (10) according to one of claims 12 to 15, characterized in that, - that an outer container (1 ) is provided with a closed outer wall (11 ) and a top (101) at which the outer container (1 ) is open, - that the interior (7) and the wall surface (25) are parts of an inner container (2), wherein the inner container (2) is reversibly insertable into the outer container (1), wherein the inner container (2) comprises a filling opening (201) and the filling opening (201) of the inner container (2) is directed upwards towards the top (101) of the outer container (1), and an intermediate space (3) is formed between the outer container (1) and the inner container (2) as a receiving space for inserting a moisture regulating agent (31), and - that at least one opening of the receiving device is directed upwards towards the top (101) of the outer container (1) and towards the filling opening (201).

17. Storage unit (10) according to claim 16, characterized in that - that a reversibly removable cover frame (4) is provided, which can be placed on the outer container (1) and the inner container (2), wherein the cover frame (4) is designed to cover the opening (32) of the space (3) formed between the outer container (1) and the inner container (2) and wherein a frame opening (41) for access to the interior (7) is provided in the cover frame (4), - that a reversibly removable inner closing cover (5), in particular separate from the inner closing cover (5), which can be placed on the cover frame (4), is provided for closing the frame opening (41) and - that a removable outer closure lid (6) is provided for airtight sealing of the outer container (1) or the top (101) of the outer container (1).

18. Storage unit according to one of claims 16 or 17, characterized in that the air exchange openings (28) are designed for atmospheric exchange between the interior (7) and the intermediate space (3), so that a uniform internal atmosphere with a specific degree of humidity can be set in the interior (7) and in the intermediate space (3).

19. Storage unit (10) according to one of claims 15 to 18 characterized in that the wall surface has at least one recess (23) with a perforated layer element (24) covering the recess (23) in which the air exchange openings (28) are arranged, wherein it is particularly provided that the inner container (2) is formed by a frame construction, wherein the inner container (2) has recesses (23) on each of its side surfaces (26) in which perforated layer elements (24) are arranged.

20. Storage unit (10) according to one of claims 12 to 19, characterized in that the interior (7) and / or the receiving space and / or outer container (1) and / or the inner container (2) are cuboid or cylindrical.

21. Storage unit (10) according to claim 19 or 20, characterized in that the perforated layer elements (24) consist of a steel alloy.

22. Storage unit (10) according to one of claims 12 to 21, characterized in that the wall surface (25), in particular the wall surface (25) of the inner container (2), and / or the outer container (1) and / or the outer closure lid (6) and / or the inner closure lid (5) are made of tinplate or sheet metal.

23. Storage unit (10) according to one of claims 12 to 22, characterized in that at least two receiving devices (9) according to one of claims 1 to 11 can be inserted into the interior (7).

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