Container for storing consumer goods

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a container (1) for storing consumer goods, such as one or more smoking articles, the container (1) comprising: a front portion (10), a bottom portion (11), a rear portion (12), two side portions (13, 14), and a top portion (15), wherein the portions are configured to form a box-like configuration; wherein the front portion (10) comprises an extended portion (10a) at an end in proximity to the top portion (15), the extended portion (10a) comprising an access opening (10b) through which consumer goods can be accessed; wherein the extended portion (10a) is formed integrally with the front portion (10); wherein the two side portions (13) vary in height (H) as seen in a direction from the front portion (10) to the rear portion (12), the height (H) being defined along the bottom portion (11) to top portion (15).

Description

[0001] January 20, 2026 national SA J177422WO CKA / Vgm

[0002] Container for storing consumer goods

[0003] Technical field

[0004] The present disclosure relates to a container for storing consumer goods, such as smoking articles. Specifically, the present disclosure relates to a box-like container with an integrally formed extended front portion featuring an access opening, and side portions that vary in height from the front to the rear.

[0005] Technical background

[0006] In the field of consumer goods packaging, particularly for items such as smoking articles, it is common to utilize containers that provide both storage and protection. Known systems typically involve box-like configurations made from various materials, including cardboard, plastic, and metal. These containers are designed to be durable, easy to manufacture, and capable of maintaining the integrity of the contents. However, despite the widespread use of such containers, they often suffer from several drawbacks that can affect their functionality and user experience.

[0007] For instance, one common issue with existing containers is their lack of ergonomic design, which can make accessing the contents cumbersome. Many traditional containers have uniform shapes and sizes that do not account for the ease of opening and retrieving the items inside. This can be particularly problematic for consumers who may struggle with dexterity or who need to access the contents quickly and efficiently.

[0008] Furthermore, the structural integrity of known containers can be compromised over time, especially if they are frequently opened and closed. This is often due to the lack of structural elements, leading to wear and tear that can result in the container losing its shape or becoming damaged. The absence of stabilizing elements in some containers can exacerbate this issue, as the outer portions alone may not provide sufficient support to maintain the container's form and protect the contents.

[0009] Another challenge with current packaging solutions is their inability to offer a clear visual indication of the contents. Consumers often prefer packaging that allows them to quickly identify the product inside without having to open the container. This is particularly important in retail environments where the visual appeal and transparencyof the packaging can influence purchasing decisions. However, many existing containers lack features that provide such visual cues, making it difficult for consumers to distinguish between different products.

[0010] Moreover, present containers do not provide a clear solution for maintaining the structural integrity of the packaging, e.g., when the inner frame is removed. This can lead to issues with the box’s ability to protect its contents and remain closed.

[0011] Furthermore, the prior art does not focus on reducing material usage and simplifying the manufacturing process.

[0012] Against this backdrop, there remains a need for an improved container that address the above-mentioned issues. It is therefore a technical problem underlying the present invention to provide a container for storing consumer goods that at least partially overcomes the disadvantages of known systems.

[0013] Summary of the invention

[0014] The above-mentioned objects are at least partially achieved by the subject-matter of the independent claims. Preferred embodiments are subject of the dependent claims, and other suitable aspects of the present invention are described through the overall disclosure of the present application.

[0015] General aspects

[0016] A 1stembodiment of the invention is directed to a container for storing consumer goods, such as one or more smoking articles, the container comprising: a front portion, a bottom portion, a rear portion, two side portions, and a top portion, wherein the portions are configured to form a box-like configuration; wherein the front portion comprises an extended portion at an end in proximity to the top portion, the extended portion may comprise an access opening through which consumer goods can be accessed; wherein the extended portion may be formed integrally with the front portion; wherein the two side portions may vary in height as seen in a direction from the front portion to the rear portion, the height being defined along the bottom portion to top portion.

[0017] This embodiment has the advantage that the insert materials can be saved, and machine stoppages can be reduced. Particularly, by way of the extended portion that isintegrally formed with the front portion, an inner frame may be removed. Moreover, this embodiment provides a robust container that can withstand external impacts. Particularly attributable to the side panels, defects during opening can be prevented, which can occur in prior art designs of the side panels when opening the box.

[0018] Particularly, also the weight of the container can be reduced. For instance, non-tobacco material can be reduced.

[0019] The subject matter described involves a container specifically designed for storing consumer goods, such as smoking articles. This container may be constructed with the following portions: a front portion, a bottom portion, a rear portion, two side portions, and a top portion. These portions are arranged to create a box-like structure.

[0020] The front portion of the container includes an extended section near the top portion. This extended section features an access opening, allowing the consumer goods inside to be easily reached. This extended section may not be a separate piece but may be formed as a continuous part of the front portion, ensuring structural integrity and possibly simplifying manufacturing.

[0021] The side portions of the container have their height changed when viewed from the front portion towards the rear portion. This variation in height is measured from the bottom to the top portion. This may correspond to a tapered or angled design that may offer functional benefits, such as improved grip and / or stability.

[0022] According to a 2ndembodiment, the extended portion comprises an edge having two segments, wherein the first segment forms a convex region of the extended portion, and the second segment forms a concave region of the extended portion.

[0023] The first segment creates a convex region, while the second segment forms a concave region. The convex and concave regions of the extended portion’s edge may serve to enhance the ergonomic interaction between the user and the container, potentially facilitating easier access to the consumer goods stored within. The convex region could provide a more pronounced area for gripping or opening, while the concave region might allow for a more comfortable or intuitive placement of a user’s fingers or thumb, thus improving the overall user experience.

[0024] Additionally, the interplay between the convex and concave regions could contribute to the aesthetic appeal of the container, offering a visually distinct design that may differentiate it from conventional box-like containers.This design could also have functional implications, such as guiding the user’s hand to the access opening more naturally or providing structural benefits by reinforcing the extended portion against deformation or damage.

[0025] The integration of these edge segments into the extended portion may also suggest a manufacturing advantage, potentially allowing for a seamless production process where the extended portion is formed as a single piece with the front portion, thus reducing assembly complexity and enhancing the durability of the container.

[0026] Overall, the inclusion of a convex and concave edge in the extended portion introduces new ergonomic, aesthetic, and potentially structural features that enhance the functionality and appeal of the container for storing consumer goods.

[0027] According to a 3rdembodiment, the radius of curvature of the first segment of the edge is smaller than the radius of curvature of the second segment of the edge.

[0028] By having a smaller radius of curvature for the first segment compared to the second segment, the container may exhibit a more pronounced curvature at one part of the edge. This may influence how the container is handled or how it appears visually.

[0029] This can impact the ergonomics of the container, potentially making it easier to grip or hold, or it could enhance the visual appeal by providing a distinctive shape that sets it apart from conventional box-like containers.

[0030] According to a 4thembodiment, the length of the first segment is smaller than the length of the second segment.

[0031] The variation in segment lengths may optimize the container’s ergonomic design, making it easier to handle and access the consumer goods stored within.

[0032] This proportional relationship might also contribute to the container's stability when placed on a surface, as well as its visual appeal, by providing a more dynamic and less monotonous appearance.

[0033] Furthermore, the specified lengths could influence the manufacturing process, potentially simplifying the production of the container by standardizing certain dimensions while allowing for variation in others.

[0034] According to a 5thembodiment, the extended portion is shaped to provide a visual indication of the contents of the packaging.The extended portion's shape serves not only as a structural component but also as a functional element that enhances user interaction by allowing the consumer to visually ascertain the type or quantity of the goods stored within the container.

[0035] This visual indication can be achieved through various design elements such as transparent or translucent materials, cut-out sections, or specific shaping that reveals part of the contents.

[0036] The integration of this feature into the extended portion leverages the existing structural design to add an informative and aesthetic dimension to the container, thereby improving the user experience by providing immediate and intuitive feedback about the contents without the need to open the container.

[0037] This dual functionality of the extended portion, serving both as an access point and a means of visual communication, exemplifies an efficient use of design to enhance practicality and consumer engagement.

[0038] According to a 6thembodiment, the portions perform the function of an inner frame.

[0039] The portions, which may include the front, bottom, rear, side, and top portions, collectively perform the function of an inner frame. This may provide structural integrity and support to the container.

[0040] This inner frame function enhances the overall durability and rigidity of the container, ensuring that it maintains its shape and protects the consumer goods inside. By performing the function of an inner frame, the portions contribute to a more robust and stable container, which is particularly beneficial for storing delicate or fragile consumer goods, such as smoking articles.

[0041] This feature brings the advantage of improved structural support without the need for additional internal components, thereby simplifying the design and potentially reducing manufacturing costs.

[0042] According to a 7thembodiment, the container does not comprise an inner frame.

[0043] By not including an inner frame, the container's design is simplified, potentially reducing manufacturing complexity and cost. This feature also allows for more internal space, which can be advantageous for storing consumer goods.The absence of an inner frame might also contribute to a lighter overall weight of the container, enhancing portability. Furthermore, this design choice could lead to a more streamlined and aesthetically pleasing external appearance, as there are fewer internal components that might otherwise influence the outer shape or dimensions.

[0044] The lack of an inner frame could also facilitate easier access to the stored goods through the access opening, as there are fewer obstructions within the container.

[0045] According to an 8thembodiment, the extended portion is non-symmetrical with respect to a reference plane being essentially perpendicular to the front portion and being located essentially in the middle of the two side portions.

[0046] This non-symmetrical configuration introduces a geometric aspect to the container's design, which may influence functional attributes. This asymmetry might be leveraged to facilitate easier access to the contents or to accommodate various shapes or sizes of consumer goods. The non-symmetrical design could also contribute to ergonomic benefits, such as improved grip or handling, depending on how the asymmetry is manifested.

[0047] Additionally, this feature might interact with the varying heights of the side portions, creating a dynamic interplay between the container's components that could enhance its overall utility or user experience.

[0048] The asymmetry in the extended portion could also affect how the container is perceived visually, potentially making it more distinctive and recognizable.

[0049] According to a 9thembodiment, at least one side portion comprises a top edge having a rounded shape.

[0050] This rounded top edge can enhance the aesthetic appeal of the container, providing a smoother and potentially more ergonomic design. It may also contribute to the structural integrity of the container by reducing sharp edges, which can be prone to damage or wear.

[0051] Furthermore, the rounded edge could facilitate easier handling and opening of the container, as it may be more comfortable to grip and manipulate compared to a straight-edged design.

[0052] According to a 10thembodiment, the top edge forms a concave region of the at least one side portion.The concave region may serve several purposes, such as providing an ergonomic benefit, making it easier for users to grip and open the container. It could also contribute to the aesthetic appeal of the container, giving it a distinctive look that differentiates it from other similar containers.

[0053] Additionally, the concave region might play a role in the structural integrity of the container, potentially adding strength or flexibility to the side portions.

[0054] This embodiment could also facilitate the alignment and stacking of multiple containers, ensuring they fit together more securely when stored or transported.

[0055] According to an 11thembodiment, the radius of curvature of the concave region of the at least one side portion is at least 0.5 cm, preferably at least 1 cm, preferably at least 1.5cm, preferably at least 2 cm, and / or at most 5 cm, preferably at most 4 cm, preferably at most 3 cm, preferably at most 2 cm.

[0056] This embodiment introduces a geometric constraint that affects the overall design and functionality of the container.

[0057] By defining the curvature of the side portions, the claim adds a new dimension to the container's structural integrity.

[0058] The specified curvature can influence the ease of handling and the ergonomic interaction with the container, potentially making it more comfortable to hold and use.

[0059] Furthermore, the curvature may impact the internal volume and the way consumer goods are stored and accessed within the container. The defined range for the radius of curvature ensures that the concave region is neither too shallow nor too deep, which could otherwise affect the container's stability and the protection it offers to the stored goods.

[0060] According to a 12thembodiment, the radius of curvature of the concave region of the at least one side portion is at most 5 cm, preferably at most 4 cm, preferably at most 3 cm, preferably at most 2 cm.

[0061] By defining the maximum radius of curvature, the dependent claim ensures that the side portions have a specific concave shape, which could enhance the user's grip and comfort when holding the container.According to a 13thembodiment, the length of the front portion, the bottom portion, the rear portion and the top portion is between 10 to 40 cm, preferably between 14 to 36 cm, most preferably between 16 to 32 cm.

[0062] According to a 14thembodiment, one or more of the portions include one or more reinforcing folds.

[0063] The reinforcing folds may also contribute to maintaining the shape and form of the container, preventing deformation or collapse, which is particularly beneficial for containers intended to hold consumer goods such as smoking articles that may require a stable and secure environment.

[0064] The reinforcing folds maybe integrated into the design of the portions, such as the front, rear, side, bottom, or top portions, to provide localized reinforcement where needed.

[0065] The presence of these folds may also influence the overall tactile qualities of the container, potentially offering a more robust and premium feel to the consumer.

[0066] Furthermore, the reinforcing folds may allow for the use of thinner or lighter materials in the construction of the container, as the folds can compensate for any loss in strength that might result from using less material. This could lead to cost savings in material usage and a reduction in the overall weight of the container, making it more environmentally friendly and easier to handle.

[0067] Overall, the inclusion of reinforcing folds introduces a significant enhancement to the container, improving its functionality, durability, and potentially its aesthetic appeal.

[0068] According to a 15thembodiment, one or more of the one or more reinforcing folds extend along an entire length of the portions.

[0069] By extending along the entire length of the portions, the reinforcing folds ensure that the container maintains its shape and can withstand external pressures or impacts, thereby protecting the consumer goods stored within.

[0070] This is particularly beneficial in maintaining the structural integrity of the container during handling, transportation, and storage. The continuous nature of the reinforcing folds also contributes to the aesthetic appeal of the container, as it provides a uniform and seamless appearance.Furthermore, the reinforcing folds may facilitate the manufacturing process by providing clear guidelines for folding and assembling the container, ensuring consistency and precision in production.

[0071] Brief description of the figures

[0072] In the following, preferred embodiments are described, by way of example only.

[0073] Reference is made to the following accompanying figures:

[0074] Figure 1 shows an exemplary embodiment of a container in a perspective view.

[0075] Figure 2 shows Fig. 1 in a side view.

[0076] Figure 3 shows an excerpt of the container of Figs. 1 and 2 when not folded into a box.

[0077] Detailed description of preferred embodiments

[0078] Definitions

[0079] The term “aerosol-generating article” as used herein may also be referred to as a consumable or consumable article. Such an aerosol-generating article may comprise an aerosol-forming substance, which can be heated to generate an aerosol and / or an inhalable vapor for the user. Additionally or alternatively, the aerosol-forming substrate may be burnt as in a conventional cigarette.

[0080] The term “aerosol-forming substance” used in the present disclosure may include materials that can volatilize upon heating. Thereby, a volatilized component in the form of an aerosol may be provided. Said aerosol-forming substance may include any tobacco-containing material. However, in some examples, no tobacco-containing material is provided. Additionally, or alternatively, the aerosol-forming substance may include one or more of tobacco, tobacco derivatives, expanded tobacco, reconstituted tobacco or tobacco substitutes. Further, the aerosol-forming substance may include other, non-tobacco, products, which, depending on the product, may or may not contain nicotine. The aerosol-forming substance may be provided in any desired form including but not limited to the form of a solid, a liquid, a gel or a wax or any otherIO

[0081] suitable form. Said aerosol-forming substance may also be a combination or a blend of materials. Said aerosol-forming substance may particularly comprise components such as nicotine, propylene glycol, PG, and / or vegetable glycerin, VG.

[0082] Embodiments shown in the figures

[0083] In the following, the invention is described with reference to the accompanying figures in more detail. However, the present invention can also be used in other embodiments not explicitly disclosed hereafter. As detailed below, the embodiments are compatible with each other, and individual features of one embodiment may also be applied to another embodiment.

[0084] Throughout the figures and description, the same reference numerals refer to the same elements, unless stated otherwise. The figures may not be drawn to scale, and the relative size, proportions, and depiction of elements in the figures may be exaggerated for the purpose of clarity, illustration, and convenience. The figures do not limit the scope of the claims but merely support the understanding of the invention.

[0085] Figs. 1 to 3 illustrate a container 1 designed for storing consumer goods, such as smoking articles. The container 1 comprises several portions configured to form a boxlike configuration. These portions include a front portion 10, a bottom portion 11, a rear portion 12, two side portions 13 and 14, and a top portion 15.

[0086] The consumer goods (not shown) may be an aerosol-generating article. The consumer goods may comprise an aerosol-forming substance.

[0087] The front portion 10 includes an extended portion 10a at an end in proximity to the top portion 15. The extended portion 10a comprises an access opening 10b through which consumer goods can be accessed. This extended portion 10a may be formed integrally with the front portion 10. In some examples of the present disclosure, the access opening 10b may be made smaller, which has the advantage that the area to which a printing or the like is attached increases. This may give the user an improved haptic feedback. In some examples, this may allow for the inclusion of appealing text and / or pictures.The two side portions 13 and 14 vary in height H as seen in a direction from the front portion 10 to the rear portion 12 (i.e., from right to left in Fig. 2). The height H is defined along the bottom portion 11 to the top portion 15 (as indicated in Fig. 1 and Fig. 2). In some examples, the height between the front and back / side parts may be such that the front side is higher.

[0088] The side portions 13 and 14 each have a top edge 13a and 14a, respectively, with the top edge 13a having a rounded shape. The extended portion 10a comprises an edge 20 having a first segment 20a and a second segment 20b.

[0089] The first segment 20a forms a convex region of the extended portion 10a, while the second segment 20b forms a concave region of the extended portion 10a. The radius of curvature R_cx of the first segment 20a is smaller than the radius of curvature R_cc of the second segment 20b (as indicated in Fig. 1 and Fig. 2). The length of the first segment 20a maybe smaller than the length of the second segment 20b.

[0090] The extended portion 10a is non-symmetrical with respect to a reference plane RP (as indicated in Fig. 1 and Fig. 3), which is essentially perpendicular to the front portion 10 and located essentially in the middle of the two side portions 13 and 14.

[0091] The extended portion 10a may be shaped to provide a visual indication of the contents (e.g., cigarettes or the like) of the container 1.

[0092] One or both of the top edges 13a, 14a of one or both side portion 13 or 14, respectively, form(s) a concave region. The radius of curvature of the concave region R_i3a, R_i4a (as indicated in Fig. 2 and Fig. 3) of the at least one side portion 13 or 14 is at least 0.5 cm, preferably at least 1 cm, more preferably at least 1.5 cm, and most preferably at least 2 cm. The radius of curvature is at most 5 cm, preferably at most 4 cm, more preferably at most 3 cm, and most preferably at most 2 cm.

[0093] The length of the front portion 10, the bottom portion 11, the rear portion 12, and the top portion 15 may range between 10 to 40 cm, preferably between 14 to 36 cm, andmost preferably between 16 to 32 cm. However, different values are also encompassed by the present disclosure, as understood by the skilled person.

[0094] One or more of these portions include one or more reinforcing folds (not shown in the figures). One or more of these reinforcing folds may extend along the entire length of the portions.

[0095] The container 1 may not comprise an inner frame. The portions may perform the function of an inner frame. This configuration allows the container 1 to maintain its structural integrity while providing easy access to the consumer goods stored within.

[0096] Fig. 3 shows an excerpt of the container of Figs. 1 and 2 when not folded into a box.

[0097] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that numerous modifications and variations of the described examples and embodiments are possible in light of the above teaching. The disclosed examples and embodiments are presented for purposes of illustration only. Other embodiments may include some or all of the features disclosed herein. Therefore, it is the intent to cover all such modifications and alternate embodiments as may come within the true scope of this invention.List of reference signs

[0098] 1 container

[0099] io front portion

[0100] 10a extended portion

[0101] 10b access opening

[0102] n bottom portion

[0103] 12 rear portion

[0104] 13 side portion

[0105] 13a top edge

[0106] 14 side portion

[0107] 14a top edge

[0108] 15 top portion

[0109] 20 edge of the extended portion

[0110] 20a first segment

[0111] 20b second segment

[0112] H height along the bottom portion to top portion

[0113] H_i first height along the bottom portion to top portion

[0114] H_2 second height along the bottom portion to top portion

[0115] R_cx convex radius

[0116] R_cc concave radius

[0117] R_i3a radius of curvature of the concave region of the at least one side portion R_i4a radius of curvature of the concave region of the at least one side portion RP reference plane

Claims

January 20, 2026 national SA J177422WO CKA / VgmClaims1. A container (1) for storing consumer goods, such as one or more smoking articles, the container (1) comprising:a front portion (10), a bottom portion (11), a rear portion (12), two side portions (13, 14), and a top portion (15), wherein the portions are configured to form a box-like configuration;wherein the front portion (10) comprises an extended portion (10a) at an end in proximity to the top portion (15), the extended portion (10a) comprising an access opening (10b) through which consumer goods can be accessed;wherein the extended portion (10a) is formed integrally with the front portion (10);wherein the two side portions (13) vary in height (H) as seen in a direction from the front portion (10) to the rear portion (12), the height (H) being defined along the bottom portion (11) to top portion (15).

2. The container (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the extended portion (10a) comprises an edge (20) having a first segment (20a) and a second segment (20b), wherein the first segment (20a) forms a convex region of the extended portion (10a) and the second segment (20b) forms a concave region of the extended portion (10a).

3. The container (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the radius of curvature (R_cx) of the first segment (20a) of the edge (20) is smaller than the radius of curvature (R_cc) of the second segment (20b) of the edge (20).

4. The container (1) according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the length of the first segment (20a) is smaller than the length of the second segment (20b).

5. The container (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the extended portion (10a) is shaped to provide a visual indication of the contents of the container (1).

6. The container (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the portions perform the function of an inner frame.

7. The container (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the container (1) does not comprise an inner frame.

8. The container (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the extended portion (10a) is non-symmetrical with respect to a reference plane (RP) being essentially perpendicular to the front portion (10) and being located essentially in the middle of the two side portions (13, 14).

9. The container (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one side portion (13, 14) comprises a top edge (13a, 14a) having a rounded shape.

10. The container (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the top edge (13a, 14a) forms a concave region of the at least one side portion (13, 14).

11. The container (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the radius of curvature of the concave region (R_i3a, R_i4a) of the at least one side portion (13, 14) is at least 0.5 cm, preferably at least 1 cm, preferably at least 1.5cm, preferably at least 2 cm, and / or at most 5 cm, preferably at most 4 cm, preferably at most 3 cm, preferably at most 2 cm.

12. The container (1) according to claim 10 or 11, wherein the radius of curvature of the concave region (R_i3a, R_i4a) of the at least one side portion (13, 14) is at most 5 cm, preferably at most 4 cm, preferably at most 3 cm, preferably at most 2 cm.

13. The container (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the length of the front portion (10), the bottom portion (11), the rear portion (12) and the top portion (15) is between 10 to 40 cm, preferably between 14 to 36 cm, most preferably between 16 to 32 cm.14- The container (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein one or more of the portions include one or more reinforcing folds.

15. The container (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein one or more of the one or more reinforcing folds extend along an entire length of the portions.

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