Diffusible Flavor Pack for Customizable Smokable Articles

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current smokable articles have limited and non-changeable flavor options, which can lead to a lack of enjoyment and increased social stigma, as flavors are typically added during manufacturing and not easily customizable.

Innovation Solution

A flavoring apparatus and process using a sealable container with a diffusible flavor pack that allows smokers to select and infuse various flavors into smokable articles, enabling customizable flavor experiences through diffusion over time.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If flavor is added during manufacturing process, then flavor is consistently applied to the product, but flavor options are limited and cannot be changed after manufacturing

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveflavor varietyVSAvoidmanufacturing process complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The invention separates the flavor delivery function from the tobacco product itself by using a distinct flavor pack that can be independently selected and attached. This segmentation allows multiple flavor options without complicating the tobacco manufacturing process, as each flavor is contained in a separate, interchangeable pack.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The flavor pack acts as an intermediary component between the user and the tobacco product. It provides the flavor delivery mechanism separately, allowing users to choose different flavors without requiring different tobacco products or complex manufacturing changes to the core tobacco item.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple flavor options are provided, then user enjoyment increases, but product complexity and selection difficulty increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveflavor customizationVSAvoiduser operation simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

By segmenting different flavors into separate, standardized packs, the system allows users to choose from multiple flavors while maintaining simple operation. Each pack is self-contained and interchangeable, so users only need to select and attach the desired flavor pack without dealing with complex mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes the flavor parameter by swapping packs rather than changing the entire product. This allows extensive flavor customization while keeping the operational process simple - users only need to replace the flavor pack component to change flavors, maintaining ease of operation despite offering multiple options.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Adaptability or versatility

If conventional flavor delivery mechanisms are used (filter pellets, micro-encapsulation), then flavor can be delivered, but the system complexity and manufacturing cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveflavor delivery capabilityVSAvoidmanufacturing simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The invention segments the flavor delivery system into a separate, pre-manufactured flavor pack that can be independently produced and then attached to the tobacco product. This avoids the need to integrate complex flavor delivery mechanisms into the tobacco manufacturing process itself, maintaining manufacturing simplicity while providing flavor delivery capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The flavor pack is designed as a disposable or replaceable component that can be manufactured simply and attached to the product. This approach uses inexpensive, easily manufactured flavor packs rather than integrating permanent, complex flavor delivery systems into the main product, reducing overall manufacturing complexity and cost.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Enhances the flavor of smokable articles, making them more enjoyable and desirable, while being easy to operate, safe, and cost-effective, allowing for adjustable flavor intensity and variety.

Implementation Method 1

a composition containing a flavor configured to be diffusible

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectDiffusion: Diffusion

Data Source

PatentUS20230389595A1Apparatus and Process for Flavoring a Smokable Article
Publication Date: 2023.12.07 RC HLDG LLC
  • US20230389595A1 patent drawing
  • US20230389595A1 patent drawing
  • US20230389595A1 patent drawing

AI summary

An apparatus and process for flavoring a smokable article is disclosed. The apparatus may comprise a sealable or re-sealable container configured to hold the smokable article and compositions containing flavors configured to be diffusible.