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WO2025181026A1 - Emballage à carton de renfort étendu - Google Patents

Emballage à carton de renfort étendu

Info

Publication number
WO2025181026A1
WO2025181026A1 PCT/EP2025/054928 EP2025054928W WO2025181026A1 WO 2025181026 A1 WO2025181026 A1 WO 2025181026A1 EP 2025054928 W EP2025054928 W EP 2025054928W WO 2025181026 A1 WO2025181026 A1 WO 2025181026A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
cross member
packaging
opposed side
side members
panel
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Pending
Application number
PCT/EP2025/054928
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Julie POLIER
Keenan Michael THOMPSON
Sophie Elise Nelly CARON
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Philip Morris Products SA
Original Assignee
Philip Morris Products SA
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Philip Morris Products SA filed Critical Philip Morris Products SA
Publication of WO2025181026A1 publication Critical patent/WO2025181026A1/fr
Pending legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

Links

Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D85/00—Containers, packaging elements or packages, specially adapted for particular articles or materials
    • B65D85/07—Containers, packaging elements or packages, specially adapted for particular articles or materials for compressible or flexible articles
    • B65D85/08—Containers, packaging elements or packages, specially adapted for particular articles or materials for compressible or flexible articles rod-shaped or tubular
    • B65D85/10—Containers, packaging elements or packages, specially adapted for particular articles or materials for compressible or flexible articles rod-shaped or tubular for cigarettes
    • B65D85/1036—Containers formed by erecting a rigid or semi-rigid blank
    • B65D85/1045—Containers formed by erecting a rigid or semi-rigid blank having a cap-like lid hinged to an edge
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D85/00—Containers, packaging elements or packages, specially adapted for particular articles or materials
    • B65D85/07—Containers, packaging elements or packages, specially adapted for particular articles or materials for compressible or flexible articles
    • B65D85/08—Containers, packaging elements or packages, specially adapted for particular articles or materials for compressible or flexible articles rod-shaped or tubular
    • B65D85/10—Containers, packaging elements or packages, specially adapted for particular articles or materials for compressible or flexible articles rod-shaped or tubular for cigarettes
    • B65D85/1036—Containers formed by erecting a rigid or semi-rigid blank
    • B65D85/1045—Containers formed by erecting a rigid or semi-rigid blank having a cap-like lid hinged to an edge
    • B65D85/1056—Containers formed by erecting a rigid or semi-rigid blank having a cap-like lid hinged to an edge characterized by the lid
    • B65D85/10568—Containers formed by erecting a rigid or semi-rigid blank having a cap-like lid hinged to an edge characterized by the lid opening of the lid opens simultaneously an inner package within the container

Definitions

  • the present disclosure relates to a packaging for consumable articles.
  • Packaging for consumable articles in particular rod-shaped consumable articles such as cigarettes, cigarillos, cigars and heat-not-burn aerosol-generating consumable articles, is often based on a substantially cuboid box having a hinged lid portion.
  • These rod-shaped consumable articles may generally be referred to as aerosol-generating articles.
  • Such aerosol-generating articles may be used to generate an aerosol from nicotine- containing sensorial media either by ignition, such as in the case of Ready-Made Cigarettes (RMC), or by heating such as in the case of Heat-not-Burn (HNB) products.
  • Future products may be filled with alternative types of sensorial media including gels, liquids, or powders, and may comprise variants and combinations of nicotine, tobacco, hybrid botanicals, cannabidiol (CBD), tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), etc.
  • aerosol-generating articles may be sensitive to oxidation through exposure to air, as well as being susceptible to changes in moisture level through exposure to air.
  • the packaging used today consists of several layers, together forming a barrier which helps protect the aerosol-generating articles from oxygen degradation, and limits moisture loss to around 2% per year or less prior to first opening the packaging.
  • Figure 1 shows a known packaging arrangement, known as a pack 100, which consists of a paperboard box 110 used as the main external structure with an inner frame portion 120 glued into position at glue points 130 to provide additional support to the box and to help the hinged lid portion 111 of the box remain in position when closed by way of integrated pressure slots 122.
  • a paper overwrap is used to contain the aerosol-generating articles in a bundle, and the entire assembly is wrapped in a transparent plastic material, such as polypropylene, prior to storage or shipping, and this provides both barrier properties and quality peace of mind to the user who can be confident the product has not been tampered with prior to use.
  • the user obtains the pack, they remove the plastic wrapping, open the hinged lid portion 111 of the box, and remove a portion of the paper overwrap of the bundle to access the aerosol-generating articles through the inner frame portion aperture 121.
  • Figure 2 shows a known inner frame portion 120 in a flat format, prior to assembly in a pack 100.
  • the inner frame portion 120 comprises first and second opposed side panels 125.
  • the first and second side panels 125 are joined to each other by a central panel 132.
  • the central panel 132 has a cross member 127 extending between and joining respective first and second side members 131 , and the first and second side panels 125 are folded back from the respective first and second side members 131 as shown in Figure 1.
  • the cross member 127 has a lower edge 128 that is below the bottom edges of the first and second side members 131 and the first and second side panels 125, and an upper edge 129 that is below the top edges of the first and second side members 131 and the first and second side panels 125.
  • the integrated pressure slots 122 are provided where the first and second side panels 125 join the first and second side members 131 on either side of a cut-out formed between upper facing edges of the first and second side members 131 , at or above the level of the upper edge 129 of the cross member 127. It will be noted that the first and second side members 131 and the first and second side panels 125 do not extend downwardly beyond the lower edge 128 of the cross member 127, but instead terminate at a level above the lower edge 128 of the cross member 127.
  • a packaging for consumable articles comprising: a box portion for housing the consumable articles, the box portion having an access opening, and a lid portion movable between an open position in which the access opening is exposed and a closed position in which the access opening is covered; and an inner frame portion comprising: a central panel comprising a cross member having an upper edge and a lower edge, the cross member extending between and joining first and second opposed side members, wherein the first and second opposed side members each extend upwardly relative to the upper edge of the cross member and downwardly relative to the lower edge of the cross member; and first and second opposed side panels folded back from the respective first and second opposed side members of the central panel, wherein the first and second opposed side panels also each extend upwardly relative to the upper edge of the cross member and downwardly relative to the lower edge of the cross member; wherein the inner frame portion is partially arranged within the box portion such that the first and second opposed side members and the first and second opposed side panels extend outwardly beyond the access opening of the box
  • the cross member may be formed as a substantially rectilinear member that extends between and joins the first and second opposed side members.
  • the first and second opposed side members may also be substantially rectilinear, but with a major axis that is substantially orthogonal to a major axis of the cross member.
  • the first and second opposed side members extend upwardly beyond an upper edge of the cross member, and also downwardly beyond a lower edge of the cross member. This is in contrast to the prior art inner frame portion shown in Figures 1 and 2, where the first and second opposed side members do not extend downwardly beyond the lower edge of the cross member.
  • the first and second opposed side members and the cross member of the inner frame portion may thus have an “H”-shaped configuration.
  • the detachable portion may be disposed between the facing edges of the first and second opposed side members above the cross member and detachably connected to at least an upper edge of the cross member.
  • first and second side panels are each folded relative to the first and second side members of the central panel about a fold line parallel to the major axis of the respective first or second side panel.
  • the inner frame portion of the packaging of the present invention provides a number of advantages over known packaging designs.
  • the detachable portion attached to the inner surface of the lid portion helps to keep the lid portion securely closed before the packaging is first opened. Accordingly, even after any outer plastic wrapping has been removed from the box portion, the consumable articles within the box portion will still be protected from the environment.
  • the shape of the known inner frame portion with a cut-out section between the first and second side members above the cross member means that there is a reduction in torsional strength of the inner frame portion.
  • This can mean that heavier weight paperboard or paper needs to be used for the box portion and the inner frame portion in order to provide a desired package rigidity.
  • the presence of the detachable portion may help to provide increased structural rigidity and torsional strength.
  • a height of each of the first and second side panels and the first and second side members may be significantly greater than in the known inner frame portion, since the first and second side panels and the first and second side members extend both above and below the cross member. This may also provide increased structural rigidity and torsional strength.
  • first and second side panels and the first and second side members extend only above the cross member, and thus provide less structural rigidity and torsional strength.
  • the lid portion may be connected to a rear wall of the box portion along a hinge line.
  • the lid portion may thus be movable between open and closed positions about the hinge line.
  • the central panel may be disposed on an inner surface of a front wall of the box portion and the first and second opposed side panels may be disposed on inner surfaces of respective first and second opposed side walls of the box portion.
  • the upper edge of the cross member preferably does not extend outwardly beyond the access opening of the box portion. This is in contrast to known packaging designs, where the upper edge of the cross member does extend outwardly beyond the access opening of the box portion. In this way, embodiments of the present invention facilitate the removal of consumable articles from the packaging, since the cross member does not extend outwardly from the access opening and impede removal of consumable articles.
  • the inner frame portion may comprise first and second protruding tabs where the first and second opposed side members join the first and second opposed side panels, at a location above the upper edge of the cross member.
  • the first and second protruding tabs may thus be disposed either side of the detachable portion, and are not disposed either side of a cut-out before the packaging is first opened, in contrast to the known inner frame portion.
  • the first and second protruding tabs may extend from slits cut in the inner frame portion.
  • the protruding tabs may be configured to apply pressure to an inner surface of the lid portion when the lid portion is in the closed position, thereby to help keep the lid portion in the closed position.
  • the detachable portion may be detachably connected to the upper edge of the cross member by a line of weakness before the packaging is opened for the first time.
  • the line of weakness may facilitate separation of the detachable portion from the central panel along a predetermined line, without unwanted tearing of other parts of the inner frame portion.
  • the detachable portion may extend between and detachably connect with the first and second opposed side members of the central panel above the cross member by a line of weakness before the packaging is opened for the first time.
  • the line of weakness may facilitate separation of the detachable portion from the central panel along a predetermined line, without unwanted tearing of other parts of the inner frame portion.
  • the detachable portion may be connected both to the to the upper edge of the cross member by a line of weakness, and also to the proximal opposed edges of the first and second opposed side members of the central panel above the cross member by a line of weakness.
  • the line of weakness may comprises perforations.
  • the line of weakness may comprise perforations separated by ties.
  • the line of weakness may have 1.2 to 4.0 ties per centimetre (3 to 10 ties per inch), preferably 1.6 to 3.2 ties per centimetre (4 to 8 ties per inch).
  • the greater the number of ties the more force is required to detach the detachable portion from the inner frame portion.
  • the number of ties per unit length is preferably selected to allow the packaging to be opened for the first time without undue force, while preventing accidental opening due to rough handling of the packaging during transit.
  • the inner frame portion is preferably attached to an inner surface of the box portion.
  • the inner frame portion may be attached to an inner surface of the box portion by way of adhesive.
  • the central panel may be attached to an inner front surface of the box portion.
  • the first and second side panels may be attached to respective first and second opposed inner side surfaces of the box portion.
  • a part of the inner frame portion other than the detachable portion may be attached to an inner surface of the box portion, while the detachable portion is attached to an inner surface of the lid portion.
  • a user will force the lid portion from the closed position to the open position, thus detaching the detachable portion from the inner frame portion, for example along the line of weakness.
  • the inner frame portion may be held in place by friction or by being sized and shaped to maintain its position relative to the box portion.
  • the detachable portion may be attached to the inner surface of the lid portion by way of adhesive.
  • the adhesive may be a hot-melt adhesive.
  • the adhesive may be a cold-melt adhesive.
  • the adhesive may be applied in the form of glue points.
  • the detachable portion may comprise a first panel that is substantially coplanar with the central panel when the lid portion is in the closed position and a second panel that is folded back relative to the first panel.
  • the second panel of the detachable portion may have a surface that contacts an inner top surface of the lid portion.
  • the first and second panels of the detachable portion may thus be substantially orthogonal to each other.
  • the first and second panels of the detachable portion may be connected along a fold line.
  • the fold line may be substantially parallel to the upper edge of the cross member.
  • the fold line may extend from a top edge of the first side member to a top edge of the second side member before the detachable portion is torn away from the central panel. Accordingly, when the second panel of the detachable portion is folded relative to the first panel of the detachable portion, the second panel may be in a plane defined by top edges of the first and second side members and the first and second side panels.
  • the surface of the second panel of the detachable portion may be attached to the inner top surface of the lid portion by way of adhesive.
  • the first panel of the detachable portion may have a surface that contacts an inner front surface of the lid portion.
  • the surface of the first panel of the detachable portion may be attached to the inner front surface of the lid portion by way of adhesive.
  • the first panel of the detachable portion is substantially the same size as the second panel of the detachable portion.
  • the fold line between the first and second panels of the detachable portion may thus form a mirror symmetry line between the first and second panels of the detachable portion.
  • the first panel of the detachable portion may be smaller than the second panel of the detachable portion, or the first panel of the detachable portion may be larger than the second panel of the detachable portion.
  • the first panel of the detachable portion after the packaging has been opened for the first time, may comprise a flap portion that extends out of an inside of the lid portion and is engageable with the access opening when the lid portion is in the closed position so as to hold the lid portion in the closed position.
  • the detachable portion after the packaging has been opened for the first time, may comprises a flap portion that extends out of an inside of the lid portion and is engageable with the access opening when the lid portion is in the closed position so as to hold the lid portion in the closed position.
  • the flap portion may extend from an inner front surface of the lid portion.
  • the flap portion may be engageable between the first and second opposed side members of the central panel above the cross member when the lid portion is in the closed position. This can help to provide a positive closing mechanism for the lid portion so as to help keep the lid portion in the closed position and avoid accidental or unwanted movement to the open position. This, in turn, can help to reduce unwanted exposure of the contents of the packaging to ambient air, and can help to maintain product freshness.
  • a problem with known packaging comprising a box portion and a lid portion is that the lid portion can remains slightly ajar when the lid portion is closed, reducing security and barrier resistance properties.
  • the detachable portion after separation from the rest of the inner frame portion when first opening the packaging, may provide a flap portion that extends downwardly from the inner surface of the lid portion.
  • the flap portion can be tucked inside the front surface of the box portion when closing lid portion. This may help to provide an additional positive closure mechanism after the packaging has first been opened, and may help to keep the consumable articles fresh within the packaging by keeping the lid portion closed when the packaging is being carried in a consumer’s pocket or handbag.
  • Parts of the first and second opposed side panels and the first and second opposed side members of the central panel extending out of the access opening may slidably contact an inner surface of the lid portion when the lid portion is in the closed position so as to hold the lid portion in the closed position.
  • the first and second opposed side panels and the first and second opposed side members of the central panel may extend out of the access opening by substantially the same distance.
  • Top edges of the first and second opposed side panels and the first and second opposed side members of the central panel may abut an inner top surface of the lid portion when the lid portion is in the closed position.
  • the inner frame portion may thus extend all the way to the inner top surface of the lid portion when the lid portion is in the closed position, and this may provide good structural rigidity and torsional strength, as well as helping to maintain a hermetic closure between the box portion and the lid portion when the lid portion is in the closed position.
  • the first and second opposed side panels and the first and second opposed side members of the central panel may have a height that is greater than 45 percent of a total height of the packaging.
  • the first and second opposed side panels and the first and second opposed side members of the central panel may have a height that is greater than 50 percent of a total height of the packaging.
  • the first and second opposed side panels and the first and second opposed side members of the central panel may have a height that is from 45 to 85 percent of a total height of the packaging.
  • the first and second opposed side panels and the first and second opposed side members of the central panel may have a height that is from 50 to 70 percent of a total height of the packaging.
  • the detachable portion before the packaging is opened for the first time, may provide a tamper-evident seal.
  • a consumer can determine whether or not the detachable portion is still attached to the inner frame portion, for example by way of a perforated line of weakness, upon purchase or receipt of the packaging filled with consumable articles. If the user, upon first opening the packaging, does not experience a noticeable resistance due to the attachment of the detachable portion to the inner frame portion, then the user may determine that the packaging has already been opened, and may reject the packaging.
  • a distance from the lower edge of the cross member to the upper edge of the cross member may be at least equal to or greater than a distance from the upper edge of the cross member to a top edge of first and second side members.
  • the distance from the lower edge of the cross member to the upper edge of the cross member is from 10 to 35 millimetres, preferably from 10 to 30 millimetres, preferably from 15 to 25 millimetres.
  • the distance from the upper edge of the cross member to the top edge of first and second side members is from 10 to 25 millimetres, preferably from 10 to 20 millimetres, preferably from 12 to 18 millimetres.
  • the first and second opposed side members each have a height from 20 to 65 millimetres, preferably from 25 to 50 millimetres, preferably from 35 to 45 millimetres.
  • the inner frame portion when laid flat, has a width from 80 to 120 millimetres, preferably from 85 to 110 millimetres, preferably from 88 to 102 millimetres.
  • the detachable portion has a width from 25 to 75 millimetres, preferably from 30 to 70 millimetres, preferably from 35 to 65 millimetres.
  • the inner frame portion may be made of paper.
  • the paper may have a weight from 80 to 250 grammes per square metre, preferably from 140 to 180 grammes per square metre.
  • the box portion may be made of paper or paperboard.
  • the paper or paperboard may have a weight from 140 to 400 grammes per square metre, preferably from 200 to 280 grammes per square metre.
  • the packaging of the first aspect may contain a plurality of rod-shaped consumable articles bundled in a paper wrapper.
  • the paper wrapper may have a weight from 20 to 200 grammes per square metre, preferably from 60 to 100 grammes per square metre.
  • an inner frame blank for a packaging for consumable articles comprising: a central panel comprising a cross member having an upper edge and a lower edge, the cross member extending between and joining first and second opposed side members, wherein the first and second opposed side members each extend upwardly relative to the upper edge of the cross member and downwardly relative to the lower edge of the cross member; first and second opposed side panels respectively joined to distal opposed edges of the first and second side members of the central panel, wherein the first and second opposed side panels also each extend upwardly relative to the upper edge of the cross member and downwardly relative to the lower edge of the cross member; and a detachable portion that extends from the upper edge of the cross member and between proximal opposed edges of the first and second opposed side members of the central panel above the cross member, the detachable portion extending beyond an upper edge of each of the first and second opposed side members.
  • the inner frame blank may be manufactured in a substantially flat, planar format, and the respective panels may be folded relative to each other so as to form an inner frame portion in a packaging of the first aspect of the invention.
  • the detachable portion may be joined to the proximal opposed edges of the first and second opposed side members of the central panel above the cross member as well as to the upper edge of the cross member.
  • the lower edge of the cross member may be recessed relative to a lower edge of each of the first and second opposed side members.
  • the detachable portion may extend beyond the upper edge of both of the first and second opposed side members by the same distance as the lower edge of the cross member is recessed from a lower edge of both of the first and second side members. In this way, the extending part of a detachable portion of a first inner frame blank can fit exactly within the recessed part of a second inner frame blank. Accordingly, a plurality of inner frame blanks can be cut from a long strip of material, such as paper, without wastage.
  • the first and second opposed side members may be joined to the first and second opposed side panels at respective first and second fold lines.
  • the fold lines may facilitate accurate folding of the first and second opposed side panels relative to the first and second opposed side members of the central panel.
  • the first and second fold lines may be substantially parallel.
  • the first and second fold lines may each extend from the upper edge of the respective first and second opposed side members to a lower edge of the respective first and second opposed side members.
  • First and second slits may be formed where the first and second opposed side members join the first and second opposed side panels, at a location above the upper edge of the cross member.
  • the first and second slits may be configured to form first and second protruding tabs when the first and second opposed side panels are folded with respect to the first and second opposed side members.
  • the positions of the first and second slits is different to the positions of the slits in the known inner frame blank shown in Figure 2.
  • the slits 122 are disposed one on either side of a cut-out, whereas in embodiments of the present invention, the first and second slits may be formed on either side of the detachable portion, preferably above the upper edge of the cross member.
  • the detachable portion may be connected to the upper edge of the cross member by a line of weakness.
  • the line of weakness may facilitate separation of the detachable portion from the central panel along a predetermined line, without unwanted tearing of other parts of the inner frame portion.
  • the detachable portion may be connected to the proximal opposed edges of the first and second opposed side members of the central panel above the cross member by a line of weakness.
  • the detachable portion may be connected both to the to the upper edge of the cross member by a line of weakness, and also to the proximal opposed edges of the first and second opposed side members of the central panel above the cross member by a line of weakness.
  • the line of weakness may comprise perforations.
  • the line of weakness may comprise perforations separated by ties.
  • the line of weakness may have 1.2 to 4.0 ties per centimetre (3 to 10 ties per inch), preferably 1.6 to 3.2 ties per centimetre (4 to 8 ties per inch).
  • the detachable portion may comprise a first panel that that extends from the upper edge of the cross member and between proximal opposed edges of the first and second opposed side members of the central panel above the cross member, and a second panel joined to the first panel, the second panel extending beyond an upper edge of each of the first and second opposed side members.
  • the first and second panels of the detachable portion may be joined by a fold line.
  • the fold line may be substantially parallel to the upper edge of the cross member. The fold line may facilitate accurate folding of the second panel of the detachable portion relative to the first panel of the detachable portion.
  • the first panel of the detachable portion may be substantially the same size as the second panel of the detachable portion.
  • the fold line between the first and second panels of the detachable portion may thus form a mirror symmetry line between the first and second panels of the detachable portion.
  • the first panel of the detachable portion may be smaller than the second panel of the detachable portion, or the first panel of the detachable portion may be larger than the second panel of the detachable portion.
  • a distance from the lower edge of the cross member to the upper edge of the cross member may be at least equal to or greater than a distance from the upper edge of the cross member to a top edge of first and second side members.
  • the distance from the lower edge of the cross member to the upper edge of the cross member is from 10 to 35 millimetres, preferably from 10 to 30 millimetres, preferably from 15 to 25 millimetres.
  • the distance from the upper edge of the cross member to the top edge of first and second side members is from 10 to 25 millimetres, preferably from 10 to 20 millimetres, preferably from 12 to 18 millimetres.
  • a distance from the upper edge of each of the first and second opposed side members to a respective lower edge of each of the first and second opposed side members is from 20 to 65 millimetres, preferably from 25 to 50 millimetres, preferably from 35 to 45 millimetres.
  • the inner frame portion when laid flat, has a width from 80 to 120 millimetres, preferably from 85 to 110 millimetres, preferably from 88 to 102 millimetres.
  • the detachable portion has a width from 25 to 75 millimetres, preferably from 30 to 70 millimetres, preferably from 35 to 65 millimetres.
  • the inner frame blank may be made of paper.
  • the paper may have a weight from 80 to 250 grammes per square metre, preferably from 140 to 180 grammes per square metre.
  • a packaging with an elongated inner frame portion with specific geometrical and dimensional aspects which fully mechanically closes the packaging and the contents of the packaging at factory, and which comprises a detachable portion, detached at the first opening of the pack, that assures factory sealing, and strongly improves mechanical fastening in repeatable closing actions of the packaging.
  • the torsional strength of the packaging may be reinforced, helping to keep the lid portion of the packaging closed more securely. This may also improve hermetic sealing of the packaging.
  • the first and second side panels of embodiments of the present invention have a greater length from top to bottom, and this may increase torsional strength. It will be noted that, in comparison to the known packaging solutions shown in Figures 1 and 2, an upper edge of the cross member of the inner frame portion of embodiments of the present invention does not extend outwardly beyond the access opening of the box portion, and thus does not impede removal of consumable articles from the box portion by a user.
  • the packaging solutions of embodiments of the present invention may allow a reduction in the use of plastics. For example, it may not be necessary to use polymer film overwraps or laminated polymer layers on paperboard, while still providing adequate hermetic protection for the consumable articles in the packaging.
  • Improving the torsional strength of the packaging can also help to reduce geometrical distortions that might be caused by carrying the packaging in a pocket or otherwise manipulating the packaging. This, in turn, can reduce the generation of gaps between the box portion and the lid portion when the lid portion is in the closed position, thus helping to reduce ingress of air into the packaging and to maintain freshness of the consumable articles.
  • the term “box portion” is intended to mean a portion of a packaging for consumable articles in which the consumable articles are contained.
  • the consumable articles are rod-shaped articles, they may be arranged substantially parallel to each other, with first ends of the rod-shaped articles protruding through the access opening so as to allow the rod-shaped articles to be withdrawn from the box portion when the lid portion is in the open position.
  • lid portion is intended to mean a portion of a packaging for consumable articles that is configured to cover the access opening of a box portion.
  • the lid portion may itself have a box-like configuration that cooperates with the box portion, although an internal volume of the lid portion will usually be smaller than an internal volume of the box portion.
  • a box portion may have a front panel, a rear panel, first and second opposed side panels, and a bottom panel.
  • a lid portion may have a front panel, a rear panel, first and second opposed side panels, and a top panel. The panels of a given component may be joined to each other along fold lines.
  • paper is intended to mean a material manufactured in thin sheets from the pulp of wood or other fibrous substances, having a weight of no more than 250 grammes per square metre.
  • paperboard is intended to mean a material manufactured in thin sheets (although thicker than paper) from the pulp of wood or other fibrous substances, having a weight of no less than 250 grammes per square metre.
  • 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.
  • a packaging for consumable articles comprising: a box portion for housing the consumable articles, the box portion having an access opening, and a lid portion movable between an open position in which the access opening is exposed and a closed position in which the access opening is covered; and an inner frame portion comprising: a central panel comprising a cross member having an upper edge and a lower edge, the cross member extending and joining between first and second opposed side members, wherein the first and second opposed side members each extend upwardly relative to the upper edge of the cross member and downwardly relative to the lower edge of the cross member; and first and second opposed side panels folded back from the respective first and second opposed side members of the central panel, wherein the first and second opposed side panels also each extend upwardly relative to the upper edge of the cross member and downwardly relative to the lower edge of the cross member; wherein the inner frame portion is partially arranged within the box portion such that the first and second opposed side members and the first and second opposed side panels extend outwardly beyond the access opening of the box portion; and wherein the inner frame portion further
  • Example Ex2 The packaging of Example Ex1 , wherein the central panel is disposed on an inner surface of a front wall of the box portion and wherein the first and second opposed side panels are disposed on inner surfaces of respective first and second opposed side walls of the box portion.
  • Example Ex3 The packaging of Example Ex1 or Ex2, wherein the upper edge of the cross member does not extend outwardly beyond the access opening of the box portion.
  • Example Ex5 The packaging of Example Ex4, wherein the first and second protruding tabs extend from slits cut in the inner frame portion.
  • Example Ex6 The packaging of Example Ex4 or Ex5, wherein the protruding tabs are configured to apply pressure to an inner surface of the lid portion when the lid portion is in the closed position, thereby to help keep the lid portion in the closed position.
  • Example Ex7 The packaging of any preceding Example, wherein the detachable portion is detachably connected to the upper edge of the cross member by a line of weakness before the packaging is opened for the first time.
  • Example Ex8 The packaging of any preceding Example, wherein the detachable portion extends between and detachably connects with the first and second opposed side members of the central panel above the cross member by a line of weakness before the packaging is opened for the first time.
  • Example Ex9 The packaging of Example Ex7 or Ex8, wherein the line of weakness comprises perforations.
  • Example Ex10 The packaging of Example Ex9, wherein the line of weakness comprises perforations separated by ties.
  • Example Ex11 The packaging of Example Ex10, wherein the line of weakness has 1.2 to 4.0 ties per centimetre (3 to 10 ties per inch), preferably 1.6 to 3.2 ties per centimetre (4 to 8 ties per inch).
  • Example Ex12 The packaging of any preceding Example, wherein the inner frame portion is attached to an inner surface of the box portion.
  • Example Ex13 The packaging of Example Ex12, wherein the inner frame portion is attached to an inner surface of the box portion by way of adhesive.
  • Example Ex14 The packaging of Example Ex12 or Ex13, wherein the central panel is attached to an inner front surface of the box portion.
  • Example Ex15 The packaging of any one of Examples Ex12 to Ex14, wherein the first and second side panels are attached to respective first and second opposed inner side surfaces of the box portion.
  • Example Ex16 The packaging of any preceding Example, wherein the detachable portion is attached to the inner surface of the lid portion by way of adhesive.
  • Example Ex17 The packaging of any preceding Example, wherein the detachable portion comprises a first panel that is substantially coplanar with the central panel when the lid portion is in the closed position and a second panel that is folded back relative to the first panel.
  • Example Ex19 The packaging of Example Ex18, wherein the surface of the second panel of the detachable portion is attached to the inner top surface of the lid portion by way of adhesive.
  • Example Ex20 The packaging of any one of Example Ex17 to Ex19, wherein the first panel of the detachable portion has a surface that contacts an inner front surface of the lid portion.
  • Example Ex21 The packaging of Example Ex20, wherein the surface of the first panel of the detachable portion is attached to the inner front surface of the lid portion by way of adhesive.
  • Example Ex22 The packaging of any one of Examples Ex17 to Ex21 , wherein the first panel of the detachable portion is substantially the same size as the second panel of the detachable portion.
  • Example Ex23 The packaging of any one of Examples Ex17 to Ex21 , wherein the first panel of the detachable portion is smaller than the second panel of the detachable portion.
  • Example Ex24 The packaging of any one of Examples Ex17 to Ex21 , wherein the first panel of the detachable portion is larger than the second panel of the detachable portion.
  • Example Ex25 The packaging of any one of Examples Ex17 to Ex24, wherein the first panel of the detachable portion, after the packaging has been opened for the first time, comprises a flap portion that extends out of an inside of the lid portion and is engageable with the access opening when the lid portion is in the closed position so as to hold the lid portion in the closed position.
  • Example Ex26 The packaging of any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex16, wherein the detachable portion, after the packaging has been opened for the first time, comprises a flap portion that extends out of an inside of the lid portion and is engageable with the access opening when the lid portion is in the closed position so as to hold the lid portion in the closed position.
  • Example Ex27 The packaging of Example Ex25 or Ex26, wherein the flap portion is engageable between the first and second opposed side members of the central panel above the cross member when the lid portion is in the closed position.
  • Example Ex28 The packaging of any preceding Example, wherein parts of the first and second opposed side panels and the first and second opposed side members of the central panel extending out of the access opening slidably contact an inner surface of the lid portion when the lid portion is in the closed position so as to hold the lid portion in the closed position.
  • Example Ex29 The packaging of any preceding Example, wherein the first and second opposed side panels and the first and second opposed side members of the central panel extend out of the access opening by substantially the same distance.
  • Example Ex30 The packaging of any preceding Example, wherein top edges of the first and second opposed side panels and the first and second opposed side members of the central panel abut an inner top surface of the lid portion when the lid portion is in the closed position.
  • Example Ex31 The packaging of any preceding Example, wherein the first and second opposed side panels and the first and second opposed side members of the central panel have a height that is greater than 45 percent of a total height of the packaging, preferably greater than 50 percent of a total height of the packaging.
  • Example Ex33 The packaging of any preceding Example, wherein the detachable portion, before the packaging is opened for the first time, provides a tamper-evident seal.
  • Example Ex34 The packaging of any preceding Example, wherein a distance from the lower edge of the cross member to the upper edge of the cross member is at least equal to or greater than a distance from the upper edge of the cross member to a top edge of first and second side members.
  • Example Ex35 The packaging of Example Ex34, wherein the distance from the lower edge of the cross member to the upper edge of the cross member is from 10 to 35 millimetres, preferably from 10 to 30 millimetres, preferably from 15 to 25 millimetres.
  • Example Ex36 The packaging of Example Ex34 or Ex35, wherein the distance from the upper edge of the cross member to the top edge of first and second side members is from 10 to 25 millimetres, preferably from 10 to 20 millimetres, preferably from 12 to 18 millimetres.
  • Example Ex37 The packaging of any preceding Example, wherein the first and second opposed side members each have a height from 20 to 65 millimetres, preferably from 25 to 50 millimetres, preferably from 35 to 45 millimetres.
  • Example Ex38 The packaging of any preceding Example, wherein the inner frame portion, when laid flat, has a width from 80 to 120 millimetres, preferably from 85 to 110 millimetres, preferably from 88 to 102 millimetres.
  • Example Ex39 The packaging of any preceding Example, wherein the detachable portion has a width from 25 to 75 millimetres, preferably from 30 to 70 millimetres, preferably from 35 to 65 millimetres.
  • Example Ex40 The packaging of any preceding Example, wherein the inner frame portion is made of paper.
  • Example Ex42 The packaging of any preceding Example, wherein the box portion is made of paper or paperboard.
  • Example Ex43 The packaging of Example Ex42, wherein the paper or paperboard has a weight from 140 to 400 grammes per square metre, preferably from 200 to 280 grammes per square metre.
  • Example Ex44 The packaging of any preceding Example, containing a plurality of rodshaped consumable articles bundled in a paper wrapper.
  • Example Ex47 The inner frame blank of Example Ex46, wherein the detachable portion is joined to the proximal opposed edges of the first and second opposed side members of the central panel above the cross member as well as to the upper edge of the cross member.
  • Example Ex48 The inner frame blank of Example Ex46 or Ex47, wherein the lower edge of the cross member is recessed relative to a lower edge of each of the first and second opposed side members.
  • Example Ex49 The inner frame blank of any one of Examples Ex46 to Ex48, wherein the first and second opposed side members are joined to the first and second opposed side panels at respective first and second fold lines.
  • Example Ex50 The inner frame blank of Example Ex49, wherein the first and second fold lines are substantially parallel.
  • Example Ex51 The inner frame blank of Example Ex49 or Ex50, wherein the first and second fold lines each extend from the upper edge of the respective first and second opposed side members to a lower edge of the respective first and second opposed side members.
  • Example Ex52 The inner frame blank of any one of Examples Ex46 to Ex51 , wherein first and second slits are formed where the first and second opposed side members join the first and second opposed side panels, at a location above the upper edge of the cross member.
  • Example Ex53 The inner frame blank of Example Ex52, wherein the first and second slits are configured to form first and second protruding tabs when the first and second opposed side panels are folded with respect to the first and second opposed side members.
  • Example Ex54 The inner frame blank of any one of Examples Ex46 to Ex53, wherein the detachable portion is connected to the upper edge of the cross member by a line of weakness.
  • Example Ex55 The inner frame blank of any one of Examples Ex46 to Ex54, wherein the detachable portion is connected to the proximal opposed edges of the first and second opposed side members of the central panel above the cross member by a line of weakness.
  • Example Ex56 The inner frame blank of Example Ex54 or Ex55, wherein the line of weakness comprises perforations.
  • Example Ex59 The inner frame blank of any one of Examples Ex46 to Ex58, wherein the detachable portion comprises a first panel that that extends from the upper edge of the cross member and between proximal opposed edges of the first and second opposed side members of the central panel above the cross member, and a second panel joined to the first panel, the second panel extending beyond an upper edge of each of the first and second opposed side members.
  • Example Ex60 The inner frame blank of Example Ex59, wherein the first and second panels of the detachable portion are joined by a fold line.
  • Example Ex61 The inner frame blank of Example Ex60, wherein the fold line is substantially parallel to the upper edge of the cross member.
  • Example Ex62 The inner frame blank of any one of Examples Ex59 to Ex61 , wherein the first panel of the detachable portion is substantially the same size as the second panel of the detachable portion.
  • Example Ex63 The inner frame blank of any one of Examples Ex59 to Ex61 , wherein the first panel of the detachable portion is smaller than the second panel of the detachable portion.
  • Example Ex64 The inner frame blank of any one of Examples Ex59 to Ex61 , wherein the first panel of the detachable portion is larger than the second panel of the detachable portion.
  • Example Ex65 The inner frame blank of any one of Examples Ex46 to Ex64, wherein a distance from the lower edge of the cross member to the upper edge of the cross member is at least equal to or greater than a distance from the upper edge of the cross member to a top edge of first and second side members.
  • Example Ex66 The inner frame blank of Example Ex65, wherein the distance from the lower edge of the cross member to the upper edge of the cross member is from 10 to 35 millimetres, preferably from 10 to 30 millimetres, preferably from 15 to 25 millimetres.
  • Example Ex68 The inner frame blank of any one of Examples Ex46 to Ex67, wherein a distance from the upper edge of each of the first and second opposed side members to a respective lower edge of each of the first and second opposed side members is from 20 to 65 millimetres, preferably from 25 to 50 millimetres, preferably from 35 to 45 millimetres.
  • Example Ex69 The inner frame blank of any one of Examples Ex46 to Ex68, wherein the inner frame portion, when laid flat, has a width from 80 to 120 millimetres, preferably from 85 to 110 millimetres, preferably from 88 to 102 millimetres.
  • Example Ex70 The inner frame blank of any one of Examples Ex46 to Ex69, wherein the detachable portion has a width from 25 to 75 millimetres, preferably from 30 to 70 millimetres, preferably from 35 to 65 millimetres.
  • Example Ex71 The inner frame blank of any one of Examples Ex46 to Ex70, wherein the inner frame blank is made of paper.
  • Example Ex72 The inner frame blank of Example Ex71 , wherein the paper has a weight from 80 to 250 grammes per square metre, preferably from 140 to 180 grammes per square metre.
  • Figure 1 shows a known packaging arrangement
  • Figure 2 shows a known inner frame portion
  • Figure 3 shows a packaging of an embodiment of the present invention with the lid portion closed
  • Figure 4 shows a packaging of an embodiment of the present invention with the lid portion open
  • Figure 5 shows an embodiment of an inner frame blank of an embodiment of the present invention
  • Figure 6 shows a strip of inner frame blanks of an embodiment of the present invention
  • Figure 7 shows a first step, in plan view, of a process for assembling a packaging of an embodiment of the present invention
  • Figure 8 shows a second step, in plan view, of a process for assembling a packaging of an embodiment of the present invention
  • Figure 9 shows a third step, in plan view, of a process for assembling a packaging of an embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 10 shows the third step of Figure 9 in perspective view.
  • Figures 3 and 4 show an embodiment of the present invention comprising a packaging 200 having a box portion 110 with an access opening 140 and a lid portion 111 movable between a closed position ( Figure 3) and an open position ( Figure 4).
  • the lid portion 111 is connected to a rear wall of the box portion 110 along a hinge line 150.
  • an inner frame portion 220 inside the box portion 110.
  • the inner frame portion 220 comprises first and second opposed side panels 230 and a central panel 250 extending between and joining the first and second opposed side panels 230.
  • the central panel 250 has a cross member 240 extending between and joining respective first and second opposed side members 260.
  • the first and second opposed side panels 230 are folded back from the respective first and second opposed side members 260, for example along fold lines 243 (shown in Figure 5).
  • the cross member 240 is formed as a substantially rectilinear member that extends between and joins the first and second opposed side members 260.
  • the first and second opposed side members 260 are also substantially rectilinear, but with a major axis that is substantially orthogonal to a major axis of the cross member 240.
  • the first and second opposed side members 260 extend upwardly beyond an upper edge 241 of the cross member 240, and also downwardly beyond a lower edge 242 of the cross member 240. This is in contrast to the prior art inner frame portion shown in Figures 1 and 2, where the first and second opposed side members 131 do not extend downwardly beyond the lower edge 128 of the cross member 127.
  • the first and second opposed side members 260 and the cross member 240 of the inner frame portion 220 may thus have an “H”-shaped configuration.
  • the lower edge 242 of the cross member 240 is disposed above bottom edges of the first and second opposed side members 260 and bottom edges of the first and second opposed side panels 230.
  • the inner frame portion 220 is partially arranged within the box portion 110 such that part of the inner frame portion 220 extends outwardly beyond the access opening 140 of the box portion 110.
  • the part of the inner frame portion 220 that extends outwardly beyond the access opening 140 parts of the first and second opposed side panels 230 and parts of the first and second opposed side members 260 that are above the upper edge 241 of the cross member 240.
  • the upper edge 241 of the cross member 240 does not extend outwardly beyond the access opening 140. This can allow the access opening 140 to be kept large for easy access to and removal of consumable articles through the access opening 140.
  • the inner frame portion 220 of embodiments of the present invention differs from the inner frame portion 120 of the known packaging in a number of important respects.
  • the inner frame portion 220 of embodiments of the present invention comprises a detachable portion 223 that is attached to an inner surface of the lid portion 111 , so that when the packaging 200 is opened for the first time by moving the lid portion 111 from the closed position to the open position, the detachable portion 223 is torn away from an upper part of the central panel 250 of the inner frame portion 220.
  • the inner frame portion 220 can improve hermetic sealing of the consumable articles within the packaging 200, while also adding a degree of torsional strength to the packaging 200 and helping to keep the lid portion 111 of the packaging closed more securely.
  • first and second opposed side members 260 and the first and second opposed side panels 230 extend over a greater proportion of the height of the packaging 200 than the side members and side panels of the prior art inner frame portion shown in Figures 1 and 2, greater structural rigidity and torsional strength may be obtained. Top edges of the first and second opposed side members 230 and of the first and second opposed side members 230 may abut an inner surface of a top panel of the lid portion 111 when the lid portion 111 is in the closed position.
  • the detachable portion 223 of the inner frame portion 220 comprises first 224 and second 225 panels joined to each other by a fold line 226.
  • the fold line 226 is substantially parallel to the upper edge 241 of the cross member 240, and is aligned with top edges of the first and second opposed side members 260.
  • the detachable portion 223 is securely attached to an inner surface of the lid portion 110.
  • the first panel 224 of the detachable portion 223 may be attached to in inner surface of a front of the lid portion 110.
  • the second panel 225 of the detachable portion may be attached to an inner surface of a top of the lid portion 110.
  • the attachment may be by way of adhesive, for example in the form of glue points 130.
  • the inner frame portion 220 in the illustrated embodiment is attached to an inner surface of the box portion 110, for example by adhesive in the form of glue points.
  • the first and second opposed side panels 230 may be attached to inner surfaces of opposed side panels of the box portion 110.
  • the central panel 250, or at least the cross member 240 of the central panel 250 may be attached to an inner surface of a front panel of the box portion 110.
  • the detachable portion 223 and the inner frame portion 220 are produced from a single component, and once the user applies upward pressure to open the hinged lid portion 111 , the force breaks perforations along a line of weakness between the upper edge 241 of the cross member 240 and the detachable portion 223, and optionally also between proximal opposed edges of the first and second opposed side members 260 and the detachable portion 223 above the upper edge 241 of the cross member 240, thereby allowing the detachable portion 223 to lift upwards, with the lid portion 111 , away from the main body of the box portion 110.
  • This action of the user breaking the perforations can provide a tamper-evident seal to give assurance to the user that the packaging 200 has not previously been tampered with prior to first opening.
  • the attachment of the detachable portion 223 to both the central panel 250 and to the inner surface of the lid portion 111 before first opening the package 200 helps to provide a hermetic seal between the contents of the packaging 200 and ambient air, thus helping to maintain freshness of consumable articles contained in the packaging.
  • the user may then remove a consumable article for use, and when the hinged lid portion 111 is returned to the closed position, a flap 227 of the detachable portion 223 extending from the inner surface of the lid portion 111 naturally returns to an aperture 221 in the inner frame portion 220 formed when the detachable portion 223 was first detached from the inner frame portion 220.
  • the flap 227 is a part of the first panel 224 of the detachable portion 223 that extends beyond a lower edge of a front panel of the lid portion, and can be guided into the access aperture 140 so that the entire first panel 224 of the detachable portion 223 returns to the original position of the first panel 224 between facing proximal opposed edges of the first and second opposed side members 260 above the upper edge 241 of the cross member 240. It will be noted that the detachable portion 223 will no longer be joined to the upper part of the inner frame portion 220, since the detachable portion 223 will have been torn from the upper part of the inner frame portion 220 along the line of weakness, but the first panel 224 will still physically engage in the aperture 221.
  • the extending flap 227 of the detachable portion 223 may also apply outward pressure to an inner surface of the front panel of the box portion 110, as well as frictional resistance, so as to increase a holding resistance of the hinged lid portion 111 in the closed position.
  • Protruding tabs may be formed by way of slots 122 formed where the first and second opposed side panels 230 are folded back from the first and second opposed side members 260 above the upper edge 241 of the cross member 240. The protruding tabs can press against an inner surface of the lid portion 111 so as to help keep the hinged lid portion 111 more securely closed.
  • the cross member 240 of the central panel 250 of the inner frame portion 220 does not project out of the access opening 140 of the box portion 110.
  • the upper edge 241 of the cross member 240 does not extend out of the access opening 140 of the box portion 110, but is located at or below a top edge of the inner surface of the front panel of the box portion 110. This helps to increase an area of the access opening 140 and can help to facilitate removal of consumable articles from the packaging 200.
  • Figure 5 shows, in plan view, an inner frame blank for forming the inner frame portion 220.
  • the inner frame blank is shown laid flat, before folding and arranging within a box portion 110 of a packaging 200.
  • the inner frame blank comprises first and second opposed side panels 230 and a central panel 250 extending between and joining the first and second opposed side panels 230.
  • the central panel 250 has a cross member 240 extending between and joining respective first and second opposed side members 260.
  • the first and second opposed side panels 230 are joined to the respective first and second opposed side members 260 along fold lines 243.
  • the cross member 240 is formed as a substantially rectilinear member that extends between and joins the first and second opposed side members 260.
  • the first and second opposed side members 260 are also substantially rectilinear, but with a major axis that is substantially orthogonal to a major axis of the cross member 240.
  • the first and second opposed side members 260 extend upwardly beyond an upper edge 241 of the cross member 240, and also downwardly beyond a lower edge 242 of the cross member 240. This is in contrast to the prior art inner frame portion shown in Figures 1 and 2, where the first and second opposed side members 131 do not extend downwardly beyond the lower edge 128 of the cross member 127.
  • the first and second opposed side members 260 and the cross member 240 of the inner frame portion 220 may thus have an “H”-shaped configuration.
  • the lower edge 242 of the cross member 240 is disposed above bottom edges of the first and second opposed side members 260 and bottom edges of the first and second opposed side panels 230.
  • the inner frame blank further comprises a detachable portion 223 connected to the upper edge 241 of the cross member 240 and facing proximal opposed edges of the first and second opposed side members 260 above the upper edge 241 of the cross member 240 by a line of weakness 222 in the form of perforations.
  • the first and second opposed side panels 230 may be folded by 90 degrees relative to the central panel 250 about fold lines 243 extending from top to bottom parallel to the facing proximal opposed edges of the first and second opposed side members 260.
  • Slots 122 may be provided on the fold lines 243 to define protruding tabs when the first and second opposed side panels 230 are folded about the fold lines 243.
  • the protruding tabs can exert pressure on an inner surface of the lid portion 111 when the lid portion 111 is in the closed position, thereby to help keep the lid portion 111 in the closed position.
  • the inner frame blank may be provided with glue points 130 in strategic positions for attachment to inner surfaces of the box portion 110 and lid portion 111.
  • the height H5 from top to bottom of the first and second opposed side panels 230 of embodiments of the present invention is greater than the height H1 from top to bottom of the first and second opposed side panels 125 of the known packaging shown in Figure 2.
  • H5 may be up to twice as large as H1 , or even more than twice as large as H1 , which can improve structural rigidity and torsional strength.
  • the detachable portion 223 makes it possible for the detachable portion 223 to be large enough both to be attached to an inner surface of the lid portion 111 as well as to form a flap portion 227 that can re-engage with the access opening 140 of the box portion 110 when the lid portion 111 is in the closed position.
  • the height H3 from the upper edge 241 of the cross member 240 to the fold line 226 defines a height of the first panel 224 of the detachable portion 223. This may be the same as the height H3 from the fold line 226 to a top edge of the second panel 225 of the detachable portion 223, although this is not essential in all embodiments.
  • the inner frame blank may have an overall width L1 , a cross member 240 width L2, and fold line 243 positions substantially identical to known inner frame portion 120 designs.
  • the height H4 of the cross member 240 is significantly longer and at least equal to or greater than the height H3 from the upper edge 241 of the cross member 240 to a top edge of the first and second opposed side members 260. This allows for the inclusion of the detachable portion 223 and still provides sufficient material in the cross member 240 to give torsional structural integrity during use.
  • the overall height H5 from top edge to bottom edge of each of the first and second opposed side panels 230 is also larger than the corresponding height of the first and second opposed side panels 125 of the known inner frame portion 120, which may also provide structural integrity and torsional rigidity to the packaging.
  • the inner frame portion 220 of embodiments of the present invention is arranged in the box portion 110 in an upside down orientation in comparison to the inner frame portion 120 of the known packaging 100.
  • the inner frame portion 220 of embodiments of the present invention may be manufactured by stamping or cutting from a strip or reel of substrate, as shown for example in Figure 6. During a packaging assembly process, each inner frame portion 220 may be individually removed, thus leaving behind the next inner frame portion 220 on the strip which has an identical shape and symmetry to its predecessor.
  • a height H3 of the detachable portion 223 protruding beyond the top edges of the first and second opposed side panels 230 can be the same as the height H3 from the bottom edge 242 of the cross member 240 to bottom edges of the first and second opposed side members 260 when the detachable portion 223 has been detached.
  • the first panel 224 of the detachable portion 223 is sized and shaped to fit the aperture 221 left behind after detachment of the detachable portion 223.
  • the second panel 225 of the detachable portion 223 may be folded through 90 degrees and attached to an inner surface of a top panel of the lid portion 111.
  • part of the first panel 224 of the detachable portion 223 is attached to an inner surface of a front panel of the lid portion 111 and the second panel 225 of the detachable portion 223 is attached to an inner surface of a top panel of the lid portion 111.
  • the detachable portion 223 is connected to the upper part of the inner frame portion 220 along a line of weakness defined by perforations 222.
  • These perforations 222 which may be micro or macro, should be configured so as to be sufficiently strong to securely retain the inner frame portions 220 in a strip during feed from a reel in production (see Figure 6), yet with sufficiently low overall strength that a user can detach the detachable portion 223 along the line of weakness upon opening the lid portion 111 for the first time.
  • an inner frame portion 220 made of paper with a weight of 80 to 250 grammes per square metre, preferably 140 to 180 grammes per square metre it has been found that somewhere between 1.2 to 4.0 ties per centimetre (3 to 10 ties per inch, TPI), preferably 1.6 to 3.2 ties per centimetre (4 to 8 TPI) is appropriate.
  • TPI ties per inch
  • a “tie” is a web of material between adjacent perforations.
  • the perforations should be small.
  • the number of perforations should also be small. This can help to maintain the hermetic sealing potential both before and after first opening the lid portion 111.
  • the remaining central panel 250 of the inner frame portion 220 held within the body portion 110 of the packaging 200 will be generally H-shaped, as shown in Figure 5.
  • the H-shape is different from the shape of the known inner frame portion 120 shown in Figure 2, where the cross member 127 is offset in a downward direction relative to the first and second side panels 125 and the first and second side members 131.
  • Figures 7 to 10 illustrate an assembly process for assembling the packaging 200 to enclose a bundle 340 of rod-shaped consumable articles held together by an inner paper wrapper, which may be a metallised paper wrapper.
  • the overall assembly process is similar to the known assembly process used for packaging 100 shown in Figures 1 and 2, although with some differences that will be explained in more detail below.
  • a paperboard blank comprising the box portion 110 and the lid portion 111 is laid flat, with an outer graphics-bearing surface facing downwardly.
  • the box portion 110 and the lid portion 111 each include edge flaps that can be folded and adhered to each other in order to form side walls of the packaging 200.
  • Glue points 130 are provided at strategic locations on the paperboard blank to allow parts of the paperboard blank to be adhered to each other in subsequent assembly steps.
  • a bundle 340 of rod-shaped consumable articles held together by an inner paper wrapper which may be a metallised paper wrapper, is placed on a panel of the box portion 110 of the paperboard blank. A rear part of the inner paper wrapper is glued to the panel of the box portion 110.
  • an inner frame portion 220 (as shown in more detail in Figure 5) is placed on top of the bundle 340, with the detachable portion 223 pointing towards the lid portion 111 end of the paperboard blank.
  • the first and second opposed side panels 230 of the inner frame portion 220 and the second panel 225 of the detachable portion 223 are folded down over edges of the bundle 340, and side, bottom and front panels of the paperboard blank are folded up to assemble the packaging 200, with glue points 130 being used to adhere various portions of the packaging 200 to each other.
  • the first and second opposed side panels 230 and the cross member 240 are adhered to inner surfaces of the box portion 110, while the second panel 225 of the detachable portion 223 is adhered to an inner surface of a top panel of the lid portion 111. Adhesion is by way of the glue points 130.
  • a packaging 200 containing consumable articles is obtained, as also shown in Figure 10, and in more detail in Figures 3 and 4.
  • the detachable portion 223 remains attached to the inner frame portion 220 and helps to keep the lid portion 111 firmly closed over the box portion 110, hermetically sealing the bundle 340 of consumable articles within the packaging 200.
  • a user forces the lid portion 111 into the open position relative to the body portion 110, tearing the detachable portion 223 from the inner frame portion 220.
  • a lower part of the first panel 224 of the detachable portion 223 protruding from the lid portion 111 is formed as a flap portion 227 that can reengage with access opening 140 and inner frame portion 220 so as to help keep the lid portion 111 in the closed position when the lid portion 111 is moved to the closed position again after first opening.
  • Suitable materials for various components of the packaging 200 may be as follows:
  • Inner paper wrapper paper, optionally metallised paper, with a weight of 20 to 200 grammes per square metre, preferably 60 to 100 grammes per square metre.
  • Inner frame portion paper, with a weight of 80 to 250 grammes per square metre, preferably 140 to 180 grammes per square metre.
  • Paperboard blank paper or paperboard, with a weight of 150 to 400 grammes per square metre, preferably 200 to 280 grammes per square metre.
  • Glue points hot melt glue, for example EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate), APAO (amorphous poly alpha olefin) or PA (poly amides), optionally with a viscosity of 250 to 1500 millipascal seconds, preferably 400 to 1000 millipascal seconds.
  • EVA ethylene vinyl acetate
  • APAO amorphous poly alpha olefin
  • PA poly amides

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Abstract

L'invention concerne un emballage pour articles consommables, comprenant : une partie boîte pour loger les articles consommables, la partie boîte présentant une ouverture d'accès, et une partie couvercle mobile entre une position ouverte dans laquelle l'ouverture d'accès est découverte et une position fermée dans laquelle l'ouverture d'accès est couverte ; et une partie carton de renfort comprenant : un panneau central comprenant un élément transversal présentant un bord supérieur et un bord inférieur, l'élément transversal s'étendant entre des premier et second éléments latéraux opposés, les premier et second éléments latéraux opposés s'étendant chacun vers le haut par rapport au bord supérieur de l'élément transversal et vers le bas par rapport au bord inférieur de l'élément transversal ; et des premier et second panneaux latéraux opposés repliés par rapport aux premier et second éléments latéraux opposés respectifs du panneau central, les premier et second panneaux latéraux opposés s'étendant également chacun vers le haut par rapport au bord supérieur de l'élément transversal et vers le bas par rapport au bord inférieur de l'élément transversal ; la partie carton de renfort est partiellement disposée à l'intérieur de la partie boîte de telle sorte que les premier et second éléments latéraux opposés et les premier et second panneaux latéraux opposés s'étendent à l'extérieur au-delà de l'ouverture d'accès de la partie boîte ; et la partie carton de renfort comprend en outre une partie détachable qui est fixée à une surface interne de la partie couvercle et conçue pour être arrachée d'une partie supérieure du panneau central lorsque l'emballage est ouvert pour la première fois.
PCT/EP2025/054928 2024-02-29 2025-02-24 Emballage à carton de renfort étendu Pending WO2025181026A1 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP24160710.0 2024-02-29
EP24160710 2024-02-29

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2025181026A1 true WO2025181026A1 (fr) 2025-09-04

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Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/EP2025/054928 Pending WO2025181026A1 (fr) 2024-02-29 2025-02-24 Emballage à carton de renfort étendu

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WO (1) WO2025181026A1 (fr)

Citations (6)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US5137148A (en) * 1991-02-25 1992-08-11 Philip Morris Inc. Cigarette pack with partly removable innerframe
US6237760B1 (en) * 1996-11-21 2001-05-29 British American Tobacco (Investments) Limited Packaging of smoking articles
WO2016102630A1 (fr) * 2014-12-23 2016-06-30 Philip Morris Products S.A. Récipient ayant un bâti interne comportant une paroi arrière espacée, bâti interne correspondant et rouleau
EP3766802A1 (fr) * 2019-07-19 2021-01-20 Mayr-Melnhof Karton AG Doublure interne pour un emballage et emballage
WO2021110696A1 (fr) * 2019-12-03 2021-06-10 Focke & Co. (Gmbh & Co. Kg) Emballage pour produits de l'industrie du tabac
DE102020112365A1 (de) * 2020-05-07 2021-11-11 Focke & Co. (Gmbh & Co. Kg) Packung für Produkte der Zigarettenindustrie und Verfahren zur Herstellung derselben

Patent Citations (6)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US5137148A (en) * 1991-02-25 1992-08-11 Philip Morris Inc. Cigarette pack with partly removable innerframe
US6237760B1 (en) * 1996-11-21 2001-05-29 British American Tobacco (Investments) Limited Packaging of smoking articles
WO2016102630A1 (fr) * 2014-12-23 2016-06-30 Philip Morris Products S.A. Récipient ayant un bâti interne comportant une paroi arrière espacée, bâti interne correspondant et rouleau
EP3766802A1 (fr) * 2019-07-19 2021-01-20 Mayr-Melnhof Karton AG Doublure interne pour un emballage et emballage
WO2021110696A1 (fr) * 2019-12-03 2021-06-10 Focke & Co. (Gmbh & Co. Kg) Emballage pour produits de l'industrie du tabac
DE102020112365A1 (de) * 2020-05-07 2021-11-11 Focke & Co. (Gmbh & Co. Kg) Packung für Produkte der Zigarettenindustrie und Verfahren zur Herstellung derselben

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