CN111065586A

CN111065586A - Receptacle for aerosol-generating articles

Info

Publication number: CN111065586A
Application number: CN201880054252.9A
Authority: CN
Inventors: F·库切特; B·菲耶尔; M·雷诺兹; S·乌拉斯尼
Original assignee: Philip Morris Products SA
Current assignee: Philip Morris Products SA
Priority date: 2017-09-15
Filing date: 2018-09-14
Publication date: 2020-04-24
Anticipated expiration: 2038-09-14
Also published as: BR112020002653A2; US20200275692A1; JP2020533001A; RU2769208C2; JP7417518B2; CN111065586B; RU2020108063A; WO2019053230A1; RU2020108063A3; EP3681816A1; EP3681816B1; KR20200054954A

Abstract

A receptacle (10) for storing one or more used aerosol-generating articles (23) is provided. The receptacle (10) includes a box portion (12) including a closed bottom end (22) and a top end (18) defining a box opening (20), wherein the bottom end (22) is opposite the top end (18). The receptacle (10) further comprises a cover portion (14) movable relative to the box portion (12) between a closed position in which the cover portion (14) covers the box opening (20) and an open position in which the box opening (20) is uncovered. The receptacle (10) further comprises a clip (36) depending from the top end (18) of the box portion (12) and overlying the outer surface of the box portion (12).

Description

Receptacle for aerosol-generating articles

Technical Field

The present invention relates to a receptacle for receiving one or more used aerosol-generating articles. The invention also relates to a kit comprising a receptacle and a container for aerosol-generating articles.

Background

After consuming an aerosol-generating article, such as a cigarette, it may be difficult for a user to find a convenient place to dispose of the used article. For example, the user may not be located near an ashtray or near a suitable trash receptacle. Thus, in some cases, a user may find it difficult to properly dispose of a used item. This problem may be exacerbated when the aerosol-generating article is heated during use without combustion. For example, many aerosol-generating systems are known in which an aerosol-generating article (which may be cigarette-like in size and shape) is electrically heated rather than combusted. In such systems, the article has approximately the same dimensions before and after use. Thus, the user may have more difficulty handling these articles than a conventional cigarette, which typically leaves only the filter after use.

It is therefore desirable to provide a convenient way for a user to manage the disposal of used aerosol-generating articles.

Disclosure of Invention

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a receptacle for storing one or more used aerosol-generating articles. The receptacle includes a box portion including a closed bottom end and a top end defining a box opening, wherein the bottom end is opposite the top end. The receptacle further comprises a cover portion movable relative to the box portion between a closed position in which the cover portion covers the box opening and an open position in which the box opening is uncovered. The receptacle further comprises a clip depending from a top end of the box portion and overlying an outer surface of the box portion.

As used herein, the term "aerosol-generating article" refers to an article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate capable of releasing volatile compounds that can form an aerosol. The aerosol-forming substrate may release volatile compounds when heated. The aerosol-generating article may be a cigarette and the aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a tobacco rod. The aerosol-generating article may be designed to be heated within the aerosol-generating device (e.g. with an electric heater).

The term "below …" as used herein refers to a first portion of the receptacle that is closer to the interior of the receptacle than an overlapping second portion of the receptacle. That is to say: the first portion is below the second portion. Conversely, the term "overlying …" may be used to refer to the second portion of the receptacle being closer to the exterior of the receptacle than the first portion. In this case, the second portion overlies the first portion.

Advantageously, the receptacle according to the first aspect of the invention provides a convenient way for a user to store one or more used aerosol-generating articles until the used articles can be suitably disposed of, for example by emptying the receptacle into a suitable bin.

Advantageously, the cover portion retains one or more used aerosol-generating articles within the cartridge portion when the cover portion is in the closed position.

Advantageously, the cover portion is movable relative to the cassette portion when the cover portion is in the open position to allow access to the interior of the cassette portion. One or more used aerosol-generating articles may be inserted at least partially into the cartridge portion through the cartridge opening when the cover portion is in the open position. One or more used aerosol-generating articles may be removed from the cartridge portion through the cartridge opening when the cover portion is in the open position.

Advantageously, the clip provides a convenient way for a user to store or carry the receptacle. In particular, the receptacle may be attached to the container of aerosol-generating articles using a clip. For example, the receptacle may be clipped to one wall of the container.

The clip depends from a top end of the box portion, the top end defining a box opening. Thus, advantageously, when the clip is used to attach the receptacle to a side wall of a box portion of a container of aerosol-generating articles, the box opening of the receptacle box portion and the box opening of the container box portion are positioned in the same orientation. Advantageously, this may simplify the use of the receptacle and container.

Advantageously, orienting the clip such that it depends from the top end of the box portion may facilitate retention of the receptacle on the aerosol-generating article container. For example, to remove the receptacle from the container, it may be necessary to open the lid portion of the container and slide the receptacle upwardly to disengage the clips from the side walls of the box portion of the container. Thus, this arrangement may reduce or minimize unintended movement of the clip relative to the container when the container is used in a vertical orientation with the container lid portion on top.

Advantageously, the clip allows the receptacle to be reversibly attached to a container of aerosol-generating articles. Thus, when all of the aerosol-generating articles within the container have been used, the receptacle may be removed and attached to a new container of aerosol-generating articles.

Preferably, the clip comprises a top end at the top end of the receptacle box portion, wherein the top end of the clip is non-parallel to the bottom end of the receptacle box portion. Advantageously, this may facilitate attachment of the receptacle to a sidewall of a container of aerosol-generating articles. For example, conventional hinge-lid containers for aerosol-generating articles comprise a box portion having side walls, the top edges of which are non-parallel to the bottom edges of the side walls. Thus, the non-parallel arrangement of the top ends of the clips may allow the top ends of the clips to rest fully on the top edges of the side walls when the receptacle is attached to the container. Advantageously, this may allow the lid of the hinge-lid container to be fully closed when the receptacle is attached to the container.

The clip may be secured to the box portion at or around the clip tip.

Preferably, the clip comprises a first portion overlying an outer surface of the receptacle box portion and a second portion located inside the receptacle box portion such that at least a portion of the box portion is located between the first portion of the clip and the second portion of the clip. Advantageously, this may facilitate fixing the clip to the receptacle box portion.

In embodiments where the clip comprises a tip, preferably the tip is formed at the transition from the first portion of the clip to the second portion of the clip. Preferably, the transition is formed by a bend in the material forming the clip.

The second portion of the clip may be shorter than the first portion of the clip. Advantageously, providing a clip with a shorter second portion may reduce or minimize the weight of the receptacle. Advantageously, providing a clip with a longer first portion may increase or maximise the stability of the receptacle when attached to a container of aerosol-generating articles.

The second portion of the clip may be longer than the first portion of the clip. Advantageously, providing a clip with a shorter first portion may reduce or minimize the weight of the receptacle. Advantageously, providing a clip with a longer second portion may facilitate fixing the clip to the box portion and may increase or maximize the stability of the clip with respect to the box portion of the receptacle.

The receptacle box portion may have a maximum height extending between an uppermost portion of the top end and a lowermost portion of the closed bottom end. The first portion of the clip may have a maximum length extending between an uppermost portion of the tip and a lowermost portion of the free end distal to the tip. The maximum length of the first part of the clip is preferably at least about 50% of the maximum height of the receptacle box part, more preferably at least about 60% of the maximum height of the receptacle box part, more preferably at least about 70% of the maximum height of the receptacle box part, more preferably at least about 80% of the maximum height of the receptacle box part. Additionally or alternatively, the maximum length of the first portion of the clip is preferably less than about 100% of the maximum height of the receptacle box portion, more preferably less than about 95% of the maximum height of the receptacle box portion, more preferably less than 90% of the maximum height of the receptacle box portion, more preferably less than 85% of the maximum height of the receptacle box portion.

At least a portion of the receptacle box portion may be received between the first portion of the clip and the second portion of the clip by an interference fit. Advantageously, this may provide a simple and economical way of securing the clip to the receptacle box portion.

The second portion of the clip may be secured to an inner surface of the box portion. For example, the second portion of the clip may be adhered to an inner surface of the box portion.

The second portion of the clip may be secured to the box portion by over-moulding a portion of the box portion over the second portion of the clip.

Preferably, the clip is formed from a resilient material such that the clip is biased towards the outer surface of the box portion. Advantageously, this may facilitate secure attachment of the receptacle to the container of aerosol-generating articles. For example, the biasing of the clip toward the outer surface of the receptacle box portion may retain the wall portion of the container between the clip and the receptacle box portion by an interference fit when the receptacle is attached to the wall portion of the container.

The clip may be formed of plastic. Preferably, the clip is formed of metal. Suitable metals include, but are not limited to, stainless steel, such as stainless steel grade 1.4301, and stainless spring steel, or combinations thereof.

The clips may include a first clip on a first side of the receptacle box portion and a second clip on a second side of the receptacle box portion, wherein the first side is opposite the second side. Advantageously, this may allow a user to attach the receptacle to either side of the container of aerosol-generating articles. Advantageously, providing the receptacle with two clips may allow a user to attach more than one receptacle to the container of aerosol-generating articles. For example, a first receptacle may be attached to a first side of the container using a first clip, and a second receptacle may be attached to a second side of the container using a second clip. Alternatively, a plurality of receptacles may be provided, some of which comprise one clip positioned on a first side of the receptacle and the remaining receptacles comprise only one clip positioned on a second side of the receptacle. In this way, a user may attach a receptacle to each side of a container of aerosol-generating articles without the need for redundant clips on the receptacle.

The cover portion may be arranged to slide relative to the box portion between a closed position and an open position. For example, the cover portion may slide within or over one or more guides on the cartridge portion. Preferably, the cover portion is arranged to slide in a direction perpendicular to the extent of the clip. Advantageously, this may reduce or eliminate relative movement between the clip and the container to which the receptacle is attached when the cover portion is opened and closed.

The cover portion may be a lid portion depending from a top end of the box portion along the hinge line. Preferably, the lid portion is rotatable about the hinge line between an open position and a closed position. The hinge line may extend in a direction orthogonal to the extent of the clip. Advantageously, this may reduce or eliminate relative movement between the clip and the container to which the receptacle is attached when the lid portion is opened and closed.

The hinge line may be formed by a hinge formed separately from and fixed to the box portion and the lid portion.

The box portion and lid portion may be integrally formed from a single material, with the hinge line being formed by a line of weakness in the material.

Preferably, the hinge line is formed by a hinge comprising one or more first hinge parts formed on the lid part and one or more second hinge parts formed on the box part.

The first hinge part may comprise one or more protrusions and the second hinge part may comprise one or more recesses, wherein the one or more protrusions are received within the one or more recesses and are free to rotate within the one or more recesses.

The first hinge part may comprise one or more recesses and the second hinge part may comprise one or more protrusions, wherein the one or more protrusions are received within the one or more recesses, and wherein the one or more recesses are free to rotate about the one or more protrusions.

The one or more first hinge parts and the one or more second hinge parts may be fitted together by a snap fit. This type of hinge may be referred to as a snap hinge.

Preferably, the lid portion comprises a recess in a bottom edge of the lid portion, wherein a portion of the clip is received within the recess when the lid portion is in the closed position. Advantageously, the recess may prevent the cover portion from being blocked by the clip when the cover portion is moved to the closed position. In embodiments where the clip comprises a tip, preferably the tip is received within the recess when the lid portion is in the closed position.

The receptacle may comprise a flange extending from a top end of the box portion and extending around at least a portion of the box opening, wherein the lid portion abuts the flange when the lid portion is in the closed position.

Advantageously, the flange may provide a tactile indication to a user that the lid portion is fully moved to the closed position.

Advantageously, the flange may reduce or minimize air flow between the lid portion and the box portion when the lid portion is in the closed position. This may reduce or minimise the escape of odours from the reservoir when one or more used aerosol-generating articles are received within the cartridge portion.

Preferably, the flange is integrally formed with the box portion. That is, preferably, the flange and the box portion are formed from a continuous section of material.

The flange may include a gap or recess in which a portion of the clip is located. In embodiments where the clip includes a tip, the tip may be positioned within the gap or recess.

The receptacle may comprise a closure configured to hold the cover part in the closed position.

The closing may include an interference fit between the cover portion and the box portion when the cover portion is moved to the closed position. For example, in embodiments where the cover portion is a lid portion and the receptacle includes a flange, the flange may be received inside the lid portion by an interference fit when the lid portion is moved to the closed position. In some embodiments, the closing may comprise a snap fit between the cover portion and the box portion.

The closure may comprise a magnetic closure. The magnetic closure may include a first magnetic material positioned on the cover portion and a second magnetic material positioned on the cartridge portion.

The closure may include hook and loop fasteners. The hook and loop fastener may include a portion of hook material positioned on one of the cover portion and the box portion and a portion of loop material positioned on the other of the cover portion and the box portion.

When the cover part is in the closed position, the receptacle preferably has a top end formed by the top of the cover part and a bottom end formed by the closed bottom end of the receptacle box part. The receptacle has a maximum exterior height extending between an uppermost portion of the top end of the receptacle and a lowermost portion of the bottom end of the receptacle. Preferably, the maximum exterior height is between about 40 millimeters and about 150 millimeters, more preferably between about 40 millimeters and about 125 millimeters. The maximum outer height may be about 48 mm.

Preferably, the box portion has a first side on which the clip is positioned and a second side opposite the first side. The receptacle has a maximum outer width extending between outermost portions of the first and second sides. Preferably, the maximum outer width is between about 25 and about 60 millimeters, more preferably between about 25 and about 50 millimeters. The maximum outer width may be about 15.3 mm.

When the cover portion is in the closed position, preferably, the cover portion has a maximum outer width extending in the same direction as the maximum outer width of the box portion. Preferably, the cover portion has a maximum outer width equal to or smaller than a maximum outer width of the box portion. Most preferably, the maximum outer width of the cover portion is the same as the maximum outer width of the box portion.

Preferably, the cassette part has a rear side and a front side opposite the rear side. In embodiments where the cover portion is a lid portion, preferably the hinge line extends across the rear side of the box portion. The box portion has a maximum exterior depth extending between outermost portions of the rear side and the front side. Preferably, the maximum outer depth of the box portion is between about 6 mm and about 50 mm, more preferably between about 12 mm and about 25 mm. The maximum exterior depth may be about 15.3 millimeters.

When the cover portion is in the closed position, preferably, the cover portion has a maximum outer depth extending in the same direction as the maximum outer depth of the box portion. Preferably, the cover portion has a maximum outer depth equal to or less than a maximum outer depth of the box portion. Most preferably, the maximum outer depth of the cover portion is the same as the maximum outer depth of the box portion.

The box portion may include a box bottom wall forming a closed bottom end of the box portion. The box portion may further include a box back wall extending from the box bottom wall, a box front wall opposite the box back wall, and first and second box side walls each extending between the box back wall and the box front wall.

Preferably, each of the box back wall, the box front wall, the first box side wall and the second box side wall comprises a top edge, wherein the top edges together define the box opening.

Preferably, the clip depends from a top edge of the first box side wall. Preferably, the clip overlies the outer surface of the first cartridge top wall.

In embodiments where the cover portion is a lid portion, it is preferred that the hinge line extends at least partially along the top edge of the rear wall of the box.

The cassette portion and the cover portion may be formed of any suitable material. The box portion and the cover portion may be formed of the same material. The box portion and the cover portion may be formed of different materials. Suitable materials include, but are not limited to, metals, plastics, and combinations thereof. Preferred materials may include polypropylene, polyethylene, polyamide, polystyrene, and combinations thereof.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a kit according to any embodiment described herein, comprising a receptacle according to the first aspect of the present invention. The kit further comprises a container for aerosol-generating articles. Preferably, the container is a hinge lid container. Preferably, the clip is dimensioned to engage a side wall of a hinge-lid container.

Preferably, the container comprises a container box portion comprising a container box bottom wall, a container box rear wall extending from the container box bottom wall, a container box front wall opposite the container box rear wall, and first and second container box side walls extending between the container box rear wall and the container box front wall. Preferably, the container further comprises a container lid portion depending along a hinge line from the container box rear wall. Preferably, the clip is sized to engage the first container box sidewall.

In embodiments where the clip comprises a top end at the top end of the receptacle box portion, preferably the top end of the clip is non-parallel to the bottom end of the box portion and the top edge of the first container box side wall is non-parallel to the container box bottom wall. Preferably, the top end of the clip is parallel to the top edge of the first container box side wall when the clip is engaged with the first container box side wall.

The container may comprise an inner frame located partially within the container box portion. Preferably, the container is configured to receive a clip between the inner frame and the first container box side wall. For example, in embodiments where the inner frame is adhered to the inner surface of the container box portion, the container is preferably free of adhesive between the inner frame and the first container box sidewall.

The container may be formed of any suitable material. Suitable materials include, but are not limited to, cardboard, paperboard, plastic, metal, or combinations thereof. Preferably, the container is made from one or more pieces of folded, striped packaging board. Preferably, the paperboard has a weight of between about 100 grams per square meter and about 350 grams per square meter.

The kit may further comprise a plurality of aerosol-generating articles positioned within the container. Preferably, each aerosol-generating article comprises an aerosol-forming substrate and a mouthpiece. The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise tobacco. The mouthpiece may comprise a filter.

The receptacle of the first and second aspects is suitable for storing one or more aerosol-generating articles. Preferably, the receptacle is adapted to store a plurality of aerosol-generating articles. Typically, the receptacle is configured to store one or more aerosol-generating articles within the receptacle box portion when the cover portion is in the closed position. Preferably, the receptacle is dimensioned to store a plurality of used aerosol-generating articles within the receptacle box portion when the cover portion is in the closed position. For example, the receptacle may be sized to contain two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine or ten used aerosol-generating articles.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a receptacle for storing one or more used aerosol-generating articles. The receptacle includes a box portion including a closed first end and a second end defining a box opening, wherein the second end is opposite the first end. The receptacle further comprises a cover portion movable relative to the box portion between a closed position in which the cover portion covers the box opening and an open position in which the box opening is uncovered. The receptacle further comprises a clip depending from the box portion and overlying an outer surface of the box portion at the closed first end.

Advantageously, the receptacle according to the third aspect of the invention provides a convenient way for a user to store one or more used aerosol-generating articles until the used articles can be suitably disposed of, for example, by emptying the receptacle into a suitable bin.

The first end may be a front end of the box portion and the second end may be a rear end of the box portion.

Preferably, the first end is a top end of the box portion and the second end is a bottom end of the box portion.

The receptacle box portion may have a maximum width extending between outermost portions of the first side and the second side of the receptacle box portion. The first portion of the clip may have a maximum length extending between a first end of the first portion and a free end distal to the first end. The maximum length of the first portion of the clip is preferably at least about 50% of the maximum width of the receptacle box portion, more preferably at least about 60% of the maximum width of the receptacle box portion, more preferably at least about 70% of the maximum width of the receptacle box portion, more preferably at least about 80% of the maximum width of the receptacle box portion. Additionally or alternatively, the maximum length of the first portion of the clip is preferably less than about 100% of the maximum width of the receptacle box portion, more preferably less than about 95% of the maximum width of the receptacle box portion, more preferably less than 90% of the maximum width of the receptacle box portion, more preferably less than 85% of the maximum width of the receptacle box portion.

Preferably, the clip is formed from a resilient material such that the clip is biased towards the outer surface of the closed first end of the box portion. Advantageously, this may facilitate secure attachment of the receptacle to the container of aerosol-generating articles. For example, the biasing of the clip toward the outer surface of the closed first end of the receptacle box portion may retain the wall portion of the container between the clip and the receptacle box portion by an interference fit when the receptacle is attached to the wall portion of the container.

The cover portion may be arranged to slide relative to the box portion between a closed position and an open position. For example, the cover portion may slide within or over one or more guides on the cartridge portion.

The cover portion may be a lid portion depending from the second end of the box portion along the hinge line. Preferably, the lid portion is rotatable about the hinge line between an open position and a closed position.

The receptacle may comprise a flange extending from the second end of the box portion and extending around at least a portion of the box opening, wherein the lid portion abuts the flange when the lid portion is in the closed position.

Preferably, the receptacle comprises a closure configured to hold the cover part in the closed position.

An inner surface of at least one of the box portion and the cover portion may define one or more projections that extend into the box portion when the cover portion is in the closed position. Advantageously, the one or more protrusions may retain one or more used aerosol-generating articles in a desired orientation within the cartridge portion. An inner surface of at least one of the box portion and the cover portion may define a scalloped portion.

When the cover part is in the closed position, the receptacle preferably has a bottom end formed by the bottom of the cover part and a top end formed by the closed first end of the receptacle box part. The receptacle has a maximum exterior height extending between an uppermost portion of the top end of the receptacle and a lowermost portion of the bottom end of the receptacle. Preferably, the maximum exterior height is between about 25 millimeters and about 60 millimeters, more preferably between about 25 millimeters and about 50 millimeters. The maximum outer height may be about 15.3 millimeters.

Preferably, the box portion has a first side and a second side opposite the first side. The receptacle has a maximum outer width extending between outermost portions of the first and second sides. Preferably, the maximum outer width is between about 40 and about 100 millimeters, more preferably between about 50 and about 90 millimeters. The maximum outer width may be about 74 mm.

The box portion may include a box top wall forming a closed first end of the box portion. The box portion may further include a box back wall extending from the box bottom wall, a box front wall opposite the box back wall, and first and second box side walls each extending between the box back wall and the box front wall.

Preferably, each of the box back wall, the box front wall, the first box side wall and the second box side wall comprises a bottom edge, wherein the bottom edges together define the box opening.

Preferably, the clip overlies the outer surface of the top wall of the cassette.

In embodiments where the cover portion is a lid portion, preferably the hinge line extends at least partially along a bottom edge of the rear wall of the box.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a kit according to any of the embodiments described herein, comprising a receptacle according to the third aspect of the present invention. The kit further comprises a container for aerosol-generating articles. Preferably, the container is a hinge lid container. Preferably, the container includes an aperture configured to receive the clip such that the clip engages a bottom wall of the container.

Preferably, the container comprises a container box portion comprising a container box bottom wall, a container box rear wall extending from the container box bottom wall, a container box front wall opposite the container box rear wall, and first and second container box side walls extending between the container box rear wall and the container box front wall.

Preferably, the aperture configured to receive the clip is located between the bottom edge of the first container box side wall and the container box bottom wall.

Preferably, the closed first end of the receptacle box portion and the bottom wall of the container box are of the same size and shape.

The receptacle of the third and fourth aspects is adapted for storing one or more aerosol-generating articles. Preferably, the receptacle is adapted to store a plurality of aerosol-generating articles. Typically, the receptacle is configured to store one or more aerosol-generating articles within the receptacle box portion when the cover portion is in the closed position. Preferably, the receptacle is dimensioned to store a plurality of used aerosol-generating articles within the receptacle box portion when the cover portion is in the closed position. For example, the receptacle may be sized to contain two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine or ten used aerosol-generating articles.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a receptacle for storing one or more used aerosol-generating articles. The receptacle includes a box portion including a closed front end and a rear end defining a box opening, wherein the rear end is opposite the front end. The receptacle further comprises a cover portion movable relative to the box portion between a closed position in which the cover portion covers the box opening and an open position in which the box opening is uncovered. The receptacle further comprises a base portion extending from the closed front end of the box portion, the base portion comprising a top wall orthogonal to the closed front end of the box portion and a bottom wall opposite the top wall. The receptacle further comprises a clip depending from the base portion and overlying an outer surface of the top wall.

Advantageously, the receptacle according to the fifth aspect of the invention provides a convenient way for a user to store one or more used aerosol-generating articles until the used articles can be suitably disposed of, for example by emptying the receptacle into a suitable bin.

Preferably, the clip comprises a first portion overlying the outer surface of the top wall of the base portion and a second portion positioned inwardly of the base portion such that at least a portion of the base portion is located between the first portion of the clip and the second portion of the clip. Advantageously, this may facilitate the fixation of the clip to the receptacle base part.

The second portion of the clip may be longer than the first portion of the clip. Advantageously, providing a clip with a shorter first portion may reduce or minimize the weight of the receptacle. Advantageously, providing the clip with a longer second portion may facilitate the fixation of the clip to the base portion and may increase or maximize the stability of the clip with respect to the base portion of the receptacle.

The receptacle base portion may have a maximum width extending between outermost portions of the first and second sides of the receptacle base portion. The first portion of the clip may have a maximum length extending between a first end of the first portion and a free end distal to the first end. The maximum length of the first portion of the clip is preferably at least about 50% of the maximum width of the receptacle base part, more preferably at least about 60% of the maximum width of the receptacle base part, more preferably at least about 70% of the maximum width of the receptacle base part, more preferably at least about 80% of the maximum width of the receptacle base part. Additionally or alternatively, the maximum length of the first portion of the clip is preferably less than about 100% of the maximum width of the receptacle base portion, more preferably less than about 95% of the maximum width of the receptacle base portion, more preferably less than 90% of the maximum width of the receptacle base portion, more preferably less than 85% of the maximum width of the receptacle base portion.

At least a portion of the receptacle base portion may be received between the first portion of the clip and the second portion of the clip by an interference fit. Advantageously, this may provide a simple and economical way of securing the clip to the receptacle base part.

The second portion of the clip may be secured to an inner surface of the base portion. For example, the second portion of the clip may be adhered to an inner surface of the base portion.

The second portion of the clip may be secured to the base portion by overmolding a portion of the base portion over the second portion of the clip.

Preferably, the clip is formed from a resilient material such that the clip is biased towards the outer surface of the top wall of the base portion. Advantageously, this may facilitate secure attachment of the receptacle to the container of aerosol-generating articles. For example, the biasing of the clip toward the outer surface of the receptacle box portion may retain the wall portion of the container between the clip and the receptacle base portion with an interference fit when the receptacle is attached to the wall portion of the container.

The cover portion may be connected to the box portion or the base portion by at least one hinge, wherein the cover portion is configured to pivot about the at least one hinge between a closed position and an open position.

The hinge may be formed separately from the box portion, the base portion, and the cover portion, and fixed to at least one of the box portion and the base portion.

The cover portion and at least one of the box portion and the base portion may be integrally formed from a single material, with the hinge being formed by a line of weakness in the material.

Preferably, the hinge comprises one or more first hinge portions formed on the cover portion and one or more second hinge portions formed on at least one of the box portion and the base portion.

The receptacle may comprise a flange extending from the box portion and extending around at least a portion of the box opening, wherein the cover portion abuts the flange when the cover portion is in the closed position.

Advantageously, the flange may provide a tactile indication to the user that the cover portion is fully moved to the closed position.

Advantageously, the flange may reduce or minimize air flow between the cover portion and the cassette portion when the cover portion is in the closed position. This may reduce or minimise the escape of odours from the reservoir when one or more used aerosol-generating articles are received within the cartridge portion.

The closing may include an interference fit between the cover portion and the box portion when the cover portion is moved to the closed position. For example, in embodiments where the receptacle comprises a flange, the flange may be received inside the cover part by an interference fit when the cover part is moved to the closed position. In some embodiments, the closing may comprise a snap fit between the cover portion and the box portion.

When the cover portion is in the closed position, preferably at least one of the cover portion and the box portion defines a top end of the receptacle and at least one of the cover portion and the box portion defines a bottom end of the receptacle. The receptacle has a maximum exterior height extending between an uppermost portion of the top end of the receptacle and a lowermost portion of the bottom end of the receptacle. Preferably, the maximum exterior height is between about 40 millimeters and about 150 millimeters, more preferably between about 40 millimeters and about 125 millimeters. The maximum outer height may be about 48 mm.

Preferably, the receptacle has a first side and a second side opposite the first side. The receptacle has a maximum outer width extending between outermost portions of the first and second sides. Preferably, the maximum outer width is between about 40 and about 100 millimeters, more preferably between about 50 and about 90 millimeters. The maximum outer width may be about 74 mm.

When the cover part is in the closed position, the receptacle preferably has a rear end formed by a rear end of the cover part, said receptacle rear end being opposite the closed front end of the box part. The receptacle has a first maximum exterior depth extending between an outermost portion of the receptacle rear end and the closed front end of the box portion. Preferably, the first maximum external depth is between about 5 mm and about 25 mm, more preferably between about 5 mm and about 20 mm.

Preferably, the base portion has a maximum outer height extending between the base portion top wall and the base portion bottom wall of between about 5 millimeters and about 30 millimeters, more preferably between about 10 millimeters and about 25 millimeters, more preferably between about 15 millimeters and about 20 millimeters. The maximum outer height may be about 16 mm.

Preferably, the base portion has a maximum outer depth extending between the closed front end of the box portion and the front wall of the base portion. Preferably, the maximum exterior depth of the base portion is between about 6 millimeters and about 50 millimeters, more preferably between about 12 millimeters and about 25 millimeters. The maximum exterior depth may be about 15.3 millimeters.

The base portion, the cartridge portion and the cover portion may be formed of any suitable material. The base portion, the cartridge portion, and the cover portion may be formed of the same material. At least two of the base portion, the cartridge portion, and the cover portion may be formed of different materials. Suitable materials include, but are not limited to, metals, plastics, and combinations thereof. Preferred materials may include polypropylene, polyethylene, polyamide, polystyrene, and combinations thereof.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a kit according to any of the embodiments described herein, comprising a receptacle according to the fifth aspect of the present invention. The kit further comprises a container for aerosol-generating articles. Preferably, the container is a hinge lid container.

Preferably, the container comprises a container box portion comprising a closed bottom end and a top end defining a container box opening, wherein the top end is opposite the bottom end. The container also includes a container lid portion depending from the rear wall of the container box portion along a hinge line extending at least partially along a top edge of the rear wall of the container box portion. The container box portion further comprises an aperture configured to receive the clip such that the clip engages the closed bottom end of the container box portion, wherein the closed front end of the receptacle box portion overlies a portion of the rear wall of the container box portion when the clip is engaged with the closed bottom end of the container box portion.

Preferably, the container-box portion has a first height extending between the hinge line and the closed bottom end of the container-box portion, wherein the receptacle-box portion has a second height extending between the top of the receptacle-box portion and the bottom of the receptacle-box portion in a direction parallel to the first height when the clip is engaged with the closed bottom end of the container-box portion, and wherein the second height is equal to or greater than the first height. Advantageously, this may provide a cartridge portion of sufficient height to contain any aerosol-generating article that may be stored within the container.

Preferably, the container lid portion has a third height extending between the hinge line and the closed top end of the container lid portion, and wherein the distance between the top of the receptacle box portion and the hinge line is equal to or greater than the third height when the clip is engaged with the closed bottom of the container box portion. Advantageously, this arrangement may allow a user to fully open the container lid portion when the receptacle is attached to the container. That is, the distance between the top of the receptacle box portion and the hinge line may be sufficient to prevent contact between the container lid portion and the receptacle when the container lid portion is fully open.

Preferably, the base portion comprises a top surface and an opposing bottom surface, wherein the clip overlies the top surface of the base portion, and wherein the height of the base portion between the top surface and the bottom surface is equal to or greater than the third height of the container lid portion. Advantageously, this arrangement may provide a desired spacing between the top of the receptacle box portion and the container hinge line.

The receptacle of the fifth and sixth aspects is adapted to store one or more aerosol-generating articles. Preferably, the receptacle is adapted to store a plurality of aerosol-generating articles. Typically, the receptacle is configured to store one or more aerosol-generating articles within the receptacle box portion when the cover portion is in the closed position. Preferably, the receptacle is dimensioned to store a plurality of used aerosol-generating articles within the receptacle box portion when the cover portion is in the closed position. For example, the receptacle may be sized to contain two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine or ten used aerosol-generating articles.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, there is provided a receptacle for storing one or more used aerosol-generating articles. The receptacle includes a box portion including a closed bottom end and a top end defining a box opening, wherein the bottom end is opposite the top end. The receptacle further comprises a cover portion movable relative to the box portion between a closed position in which the cover portion covers the box opening and an open position in which the box opening is uncovered. The receptacle further comprises a skirt portion extending from the box portion around a periphery of a bottom end of the box portion, wherein the skirt portion defines a cavity for receiving a portion of a container of aerosol-generating articles.

Advantageously, the receptacle according to the seventh aspect of the invention provides a convenient way for a user to store one or more used aerosol-generating articles until the used articles can be suitably disposed of, for example, by emptying the receptacle into a suitable bin.

Advantageously, the cavity defined by the skirt provides a convenient way for a user to store or carry the receptacle. In particular, the receptacle may be attached to the container of aerosol-generating articles by inserting a portion of the container into the cavity. For example, a lid portion of the container may be inserted into the cavity.

The cavity is formed at the closed bottom end of the cartridge portion, opposite the top end defining the cartridge opening. Thus, advantageously, when the cavity is used to attach the receptacle to the lid portion of the container of aerosol-generating articles, the cartridge opening of the receptacle-cartridge portion and the cartridge opening of the container-cartridge portion are positioned in the same orientation. Advantageously, this may simplify the use of the receptacle and container.

Advantageously, the cavity allows the container to be reversibly attached to a container of aerosol-generating articles. Thus, when all of the aerosol-generating articles within the container have been used, the receptacle may be removed and attached to a new container of aerosol-generating articles.

Preferably, the skirt portion comprises a first side wall and a second side wall, each side wall comprising a top edge connected to the bottom end of the box portion, wherein each of the first side wall and the second side wall comprises a bottom edge opposite the top edge, and wherein the bottom edge is non-parallel to the top edge. Advantageously, this may facilitate attachment of the receptacle to the lid portion of the container of aerosol-generating articles. For example, conventional hinge-lid containers for aerosol-generating articles comprise a box portion having side walls, the top edges of which are non-parallel to the bottom edges of the side walls. Thus, the non-parallel arrangement of the bottom edges of the first and second skirt sidewalls may facilitate matching of the size and shape of the cavity to the size and shape of the lid portion of the aerosol-generating article container. Advantageously, this may allow the lid portion of the aerosol-generating article container to be fully inserted into the cavity without restricting the opening and closing of the container lid portion when the receptacle is attached to the container lid portion.

Preferably, the skirt portion is integrally formed with the box portion. That is, preferably, the skirt portion and the box portion are formed from a continuous section of material.

The cover portion may be a lid portion depending from a top end of the box portion along the hinge line. Preferably, the lid portion is rotatable about the hinge line between an open position and a closed position.

Preferably, the receptacle has a top end formed by the top of the cover part when the cover part is in the closed position. The receptacle has a maximum height extending between an uppermost portion of the top end of the receptacle and a lowermost portion of the closed bottom end of the receptacle box portion. Preferably, the maximum height is between about 25 millimeters and about 60 millimeters, more preferably between about 25 millimeters and about 50 millimeters.

Preferably, the box portion has a first side and a second side opposite the first side. The receptacle has a maximum outer width extending between outermost portions of the first and second sides. Preferably, the maximum outer width is between about 40 and about 100 millimeters, more preferably between about 50 and about 90 millimeters.

Preferably, the cassette part has a rear side and a front side opposite the rear side. In embodiments where the cover portion is a lid portion, preferably the hinge line extends across the rear side of the box portion. The box portion has a maximum exterior depth extending between outermost portions of the rear side and the front side. Preferably, the maximum outer depth of the box portion is between about 6 mm and about 50 mm, more preferably between about 12 mm and about 25 mm.

The skirt portion, the box portion and the cover portion may be formed of any suitable material. The skirt portion, the box portion, and the cover portion may be formed of the same material. At least two of the skirt portion, the box portion, and the cover portion may be formed of different materials. Suitable materials include, but are not limited to, metals, plastics, and combinations thereof. Preferred materials may include polypropylene, polyethylene, polyamide, polystyrene, and combinations thereof.

According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a kit according to any of the embodiments described herein, comprising a receptacle according to the seventh aspect of the present invention. The kit further comprises a container for aerosol-generating articles. The container includes a box portion and a container lid portion depending from the container box portion along a hinge line. The cavity is configured to receive at least a portion of the container lid portion by an interference fit. Preferably, the cavity and the container lid portion are of the same size and shape.

Preferably, the bottom edge of the skirt portion and the bottom edge of the container lid portion have the same shape. Preferably, the bottom edge of the skirt portion is aligned with the bottom edge of the container lid portion when the container lid portion is received within the cavity. Advantageously, this may allow opening and closing of the container lid portion when the container lid portion is received within the cavity.

The receptacle of the seventh and eighth aspects is adapted to store one or more aerosol-generating articles. Preferably, the receptacle is adapted to store a plurality of aerosol-generating articles. Typically, the receptacle is configured to store one or more aerosol-generating articles within the receptacle box portion when the cover portion is in the closed position. Preferably, the receptacle is dimensioned to store a plurality of used aerosol-generating articles within the receptacle box portion when the cover portion is in the closed position. For example, the receptacle may be sized to contain two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine or ten used aerosol-generating articles.

Drawings

The invention is further described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

figure 1 shows a perspective view of a receptacle according to a first embodiment of the invention;

figure 2 shows a front view of the receptacle of figure 1;

figure 3 shows a perspective view of the receptacle of figure 1 with the cover part in an open position;

figure 4 shows a perspective view of the receptacle of figure 3 with a plurality of used aerosol-generating articles received within the receptacle;

figure 5 shows a perspective view of a kit comprising the receptacle of figure 3 and a container for aerosol-generating articles;

figure 6 shows a perspective view of a receptacle according to a second embodiment of the invention;

fig. 7 shows a front view of the receptacle of fig. 6;

figure 8 shows a perspective view of a kit comprising the receptacle of figure 7 and a container for aerosol-generating articles;

fig. 9 shows a perspective view of the kit of fig. 8, wherein the receptacle is fully attached to the container;

figure 10 shows a perspective view of the kit of figure 9 with the receptacle covering part in an open position;

figure 11 shows a perspective view of a receptacle according to a third embodiment of the invention;

figure 12 shows a front view of the receptacle of figure 11;

figure 13 shows a side view of the receptacle of figure 11;

figure 14 shows a perspective view of a kit comprising the receptacle of figure 11 and a container for aerosol-generating articles;

figure 15 shows a perspective view of the kit of figure 14 with the receptacle covering part in an open position;

figure 16 shows a perspective view of a kit comprising a receptacle according to a fourth embodiment of the invention and a container for aerosol-generating articles;

figure 17 shows a cross-sectional view of the receptacle of figure 16 along the line 1-1;

fig. 18 shows a perspective view of the kit of fig. 16, wherein the receptacle is attached to the container; and

fig. 19 shows a perspective view of the kit of fig. 18 with the receptacle-covering part in an open position.

Detailed Description

Figures 1 to 3 show a receptacle 10 according to a first embodiment of the present invention. The receptacle 10 comprises a box portion 12 and a cover portion 14 in the form of a lid portion which depends from the box portion 12 along a hinge line 16. Cover portion 14 is rotatable about hinge line 16 between a closed position (shown in fig. 1) and an open position (shown in fig. 3). The top end 18 of the box portion 12 defines a box opening 20 that is covered when the cover portion 14 is in the closed position and uncovered when the cover portion 14 is in the open position. The box portion 12 includes a closed bottom end 22 opposite the top end 18. As shown in fig. 4, the receptacle 10 is dimensioned to receive a plurality of used aerosol-generating articles 23 within the box portion 12.

The box portion 12 comprises a box back wall 24, a box front wall 26, a first box side wall 28 and a second box side wall 30. The top edges of these walls together define a box opening 20 at the top end 18 of the box portion 12. A flange 32 extends around a portion of the box portion 12 at the top end 18 of the box portion 12. When cover portion 14 is in the closed position, cover portion 14 engages flange 32 with a snap fit that forms a closure to hold cover portion 14 in the closed position.

The box portion 12 also includes a box bottom wall (not shown) that forms a closed bottom end 22 of the box portion 12. The closed bottom end 22 of the box portion 12 also forms the bottom end of the receptacle 10. The lid top wall 34 of the cover portion 14 forms the top end of the receptacle 10.

The receptacle 10 further includes a clip 36 depending from the top end 18 of the box portion 12 and overlying the outer surface of the first box sidewall 28. The clip 36 includes: a first portion 38 extending between a tip 40 of the clip 36 at the tip 18 of the cartridge portion 12 and a free end 42 distal to the tip 40. A second portion (not shown) of the clip 36 is positioned inside the box portion 12 and is secured to the inner surface of the first box sidewall 28 by an adhesive. The clip 36 is formed of a resilient metal such that the clip 36 is biased toward the first cartridge sidewall 28. Bottom edge 44 of cover portion 14 includes a recess 46 in which top end 40 of clip 36 is received when cover portion 14 is in the closed position.

Fig. 5 shows a kit 50 comprising the receptacle 10 of fig. 1 to 4 and a container 52 for aerosol-generating articles. The container 52 is a hinge-lid container that includes a container box portion 54 and a container lid portion 56 depending from the container box portion 54 along a hinge line 58 that extends between a container lid rear wall 60 and a container box rear wall 62. As shown in fig. 5, the clips 36 may be used to attach the receptacle 10 to the first container box sidewall 64 of the container 52. Advantageously, the angular profile of the top end 40 of the clip 36 matches the angular profile of the top edge of the first container-box side wall 64 so that the container lid portion 56 can still be fully closed when the receptacle 10 is attached to the container 52. Advantageously, configuring the clips 36 to attach the receptacle 10 to the side walls of the container 52, resulting in the same orientation of the box openings of the receptacle 10 and the container 52, may facilitate the use of the kit 50 by a user. The depth and height of the receptacle 10 matches the depth and height of the container 52, which may further facilitate the use of the kit 50 by a user, for example by making the kit 50 easy to hold.

Figures 6 and 7 show a receptacle 110 according to a second embodiment of the present invention. Figures 8 to 10 show a kit 150 comprising a receptacle 110 and a container 152 for aerosol-generating articles.

The receptacle 110 comprises a box portion 112 and a cover portion 114 in the form of a lid portion which depends from the box portion 112 along a hinge line 116. Cover portion 114 is rotatable about hinge line 116 between a closed position (shown in fig. 6) and an open position (shown in fig. 10). The bottom end 118 of the box portion 112 defines a box opening 120 that is covered when the cover portion 114 is in the closed position and uncovered when the cover portion 114 is in the open position. The box portion 112 includes a closed top end 122 opposite the bottom end 118.

The box portion 112 includes a box back wall 124, a box front wall 126, a first box side wall 128 and a second box side wall 130. The bottom edges of these walls together define a cartridge opening 120 at the bottom end 118 of the cartridge portion 112. A boss 132 extends from an edge of the cover portion 114 and is configured to engage a corresponding recess 133 in the bottom edge of the cartridge front wall 126 with a snap fit when the cover portion 114 is in the closed position. The snap fit forms a closure to hold the cover portion 114 in the closed position.

The box portion 112 also includes a box top wall 135 that forms the closed top end 122 of the box portion 112. The closed top end 122 of the box portion 112 also forms the top end of the receptacle 110. The lid bottom wall 134 of the cover portion 114 forms the bottom end of the receptacle 110.

The receptacle 110 also includes a clip 136 that depends from the box portion 112 and overlies the outer surface of the box top wall 135. Clip 136 includes a first portion 138 extending between a first end 140 and a free end 142 distal to first end 140. A second portion (not shown) of clip 136 is positioned inside box portion 112 and is secured to an inner surface of box portion 112 by an adhesive. The clip 136 is formed of a resilient metal such that the clip 136 is biased toward the cartridge top wall 135.

The container 152 is a hinge-lid container that includes a container box portion 154 and a container lid portion 156 that depends along a hinge line from the container box portion 154. As shown in fig. 8-10, the receptacle 110 may be attached to the container box bottom wall 164 of the container 152 using the clip 136 by inserting the clip through an aperture between the bottom edge of the first container box side wall 166 and the container box bottom wall 164. The depth and width of the receptacle 110 match the depth and width of the container 152, which may facilitate use of the kit 150 by a user, for example, by making the kit 150 easy to hold.

Figures 11 to 13 show a receptacle 210 according to a third embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 14 and 15 show a kit 250 comprising a receptacle 210 and a container 252 for aerosol-generating articles.

The receptacle 210 includes a box portion 212, a base portion 213, and a cover portion 214 that depends from the base portion 213 by a hinge 216. The cover portion 214 is rotatable about the chain 216 between a closed position (shown in fig. 11-14) and an open position (shown in fig. 15). The rear end 218 of the cartridge portion 212 defines a cartridge opening 220 that is covered when the cover portion 214 is in the closed position and uncovered when the cover portion 214 is in the open position. The box portion 212 includes a closed front end 222 opposite the rear end 218. As shown in fig. 15, the receptacle 210 is dimensioned to receive a plurality of used aerosol-generating articles 223 within the cartridge portion 212. When the cover portion 214 is in the closed position, the inner surface of the cover portion 214 is scalloped to retain the used aerosol-generating article 223 in an upright position.

The box portion 212 includes a box top wall 226, a first box side wall 228 and a second box side wall 230. The rear edges of these walls together define a cartridge opening 220 at the top end 218 of the cartridge portion 212. The box portion 212 also includes a box front wall 224 that forms the closed front end 222 of the box portion 212.

The base portion 213 extends from a closed front end 222 of the box portion 212. The base portion 213 includes a base top wall 215 orthogonal to the closed front end 222 of the box portion 212 and a base bottom wall 217 opposite the base top wall 215.

The receptacle 210 also includes a clip 236 that depends from the base portion 213 and overlies the outer surface of the base top wall 215. Clip 236 includes a first portion 238 extending between a first end 240 and a free end 242 distal from first end 240. A second portion (not shown) of the clip 236 is positioned inside the base portion 213 and is secured to an inner surface of the base portion 213 by an adhesive. The clip 236 is formed of a resilient metal such that the clip 236 is biased toward the base top wall 215.

The container 252 is a hinge-lid container that includes a container box portion 254 and a container lid portion 256 that depends along a hinge line from the container box portion 254. As shown in fig. 14 and 15, the receptacle 210 may be attached to the container box bottom wall 264 of the container 252 using the clips 236 by inserting the clips through the aperture between the bottom edge of the first container box side wall 266 and the container box bottom wall 264. When the receptacle 210 is attached to the container 252, the closed front end 222 of the receptacle box portion 212 overlies a portion of the container rear wall 268 of the container box portion 254.

Fig. 16 to 19 show a receptacle 310 according to a fourth embodiment of the invention and a kit 350 comprising the receptacle 310 and a container 352 for aerosol-generating articles.

The receptacle 310 comprises a box portion 312 and a cover portion 314 in the form of a lid portion which depends from the box portion 312 along a hinge line 316. The cover portion 314 is rotatable about a hinge line 316 between a closed position (shown in fig. 16-18) and an open position (shown in fig. 19). The top end 318 of the cartridge portion 312 defines a cartridge opening 320 that is covered when the cover portion 314 is in the closed position and uncovered when the cover portion 314 is in the open position. The cartridge portion 312 includes a closed bottom end 322 opposite the top end 318. As shown in fig. 19, the receptacle 310 is dimensioned to receive a plurality of used aerosol-generating articles 323 within the cartridge portion 312.

The box portion 312 includes a box back wall 324, a box front wall 326, a first box side wall 328, and a second box side wall 330. The top edges of these walls together define a cartridge opening 320 at the top end 318 of the cartridge portion 312. The bosses 332 extend from the edges of the cover portion 314 and are configured to engage corresponding recesses 333 in the top edge of the cartridge front wall 326 by a snap fit when the cover portion 314 is in the closed position. The snap fit forms a closure to hold the cover portion 314 in the closed position.

The box portion 312 also includes a box bottom wall 335 that forms the closed bottom end 322 of the box portion 312.

The receptacle 310 also includes a skirt portion 336 extending from the box portion 312 around the periphery of the closed bottom end 322 of the box portion 312. Skirt portion 336 is integrally formed with cartridge portion 312. The skirt portion 336 defines a cavity 338 for receiving a portion of the container 352.

The container 352 is a hinge-lid container that includes a container box portion 354 and a container lid portion 356 that depends along a hinge line from the container box portion 354. As shown in fig. 16, 18, and 19, the receptacle 310 may be attached to the container 352 by inserting the container lid portion 356 into the cavity 338 defined by the skirt portion 336. The container lid portion 356 is retained within the cavity 338 by an interference fit. Advantageously, the skirt portion 336 has a shape that corresponds to the shape of the container lid portion 356 such that only the container lid portion 356 is received within the cavity 338 when the receptacle 310 is attached to the container 352. Advantageously, this allows the container lid portion 356 to open and close when the receptacle 310 is attached to the container 352. That is, the receptacle 310 moves with the container lid portion 356 as the container lid portion 356 is moved between the open and closed positions.

Claims

1. A receptacle for storing one or more used aerosol-generating articles, the receptacle comprising:

a box portion comprising a closed bottom end and a top end defining a box opening, wherein the bottom end is opposite the top end;

a cover portion movable relative to the cartridge portion between a closed position in which the cover portion covers the cartridge opening and an open position in which the cartridge opening is uncovered; and

a clip depending from a top end of the box portion and overlying an outer surface of the box portion.

2. The receptacle of claim 1, wherein the clip comprises a top end at the top end of the box portion, and wherein the top end of the clip is non-parallel to the bottom end of the box portion.

3. The receptacle of claim 1 or 2, wherein the clip comprises a first portion overlying an outer surface of the box portion and a second portion positioned inside the box portion such that at least a portion of the box portion is located between the first portion of the clip and the second portion of the clip.

4. A receptacle according to claim 1, 2 or 3, wherein the cover portion is a lid portion which depends along a hinge line from a top end of the box portion.

5. The receptacle of claim 4, wherein the lid portion comprises a recess in a bottom edge of the lid portion, wherein a portion of the clip is received within the recess when the lid portion is in the closed position.

6. A kit comprising a receptacle according to any preceding claim and a container for aerosol-generating articles, the container comprising:

a cartridge portion, the cartridge portion comprising:

a container box bottom wall;

a container back wall extending from the container bottom wall;

a container box front wall opposite the container box back wall; and

a first container box side wall and a second container box side wall, each of the first container box side wall and the second container box side wall extending between the container box back wall and the container box front wall; and

a container lid portion depending along a hinge line from the container box rear wall; wherein the clip is sized to engage the first container box sidewall.

7. The kit of claim 6, wherein the clip comprises a top end at a top end of the receptacle box portion, wherein the top end of the clip is non-parallel to the bottom end of the box portion, wherein a top edge of the first container box side wall is non-parallel to the container box bottom wall, and wherein the top end of the clip is parallel to a top edge of the first container box side wall when the clip is engaged with the first container box side wall.

8. A kit according to claim 6 or 7 wherein the container comprises an inner frame located partially within the container box portion and wherein the container is configured to receive the clip between the inner frame and the first container box side wall.

9. A receptacle for storing one or more used aerosol-generating articles, the receptacle comprising:

a cartridge portion comprising a closed first end and a second end defining a cartridge opening, wherein the second end is opposite the first end;

a clip depending from the box portion and overlying an outer surface of the closed first end of the box portion.

10. A kit comprising a receptacle according to claim 9 and a container for aerosol-generating articles, the container comprising a container box portion comprising:

a container box bottom wall;

a container back wall extending from the container bottom wall;

a container box front wall opposite the container box back wall;

an aperture between the bottom edge of the first container side wall and the container bottom wall, the aperture configured to receive the clip such that the clip engages the container bottom wall.

11. A receptacle for storing one or more used aerosol-generating articles, the receptacle comprising:

a box portion including a closed front end and a rear end defining a box opening, wherein the rear end is opposite the front end;

a cover portion movable relative to the cartridge portion between a closed position in which the cover portion covers the cartridge opening and an open position in which the cartridge opening is uncovered;

a base portion extending from the closed front end of the box portion, the base portion including a top wall orthogonal to the closed front end of the box portion and a bottom wall opposite the top wall; and

a clip depending from the base portion and overlying an outer surface of the top wall.

12. A kit comprising a receptacle according to claim 11 and a container for aerosol-generating articles, the container comprising:

a container box portion comprising a closed bottom end and a top end defining a container box opening, wherein the top end is opposite the bottom end; and

a receptacle lid portion depending from the rear wall of the receptacle portion along a hinge line extending at least partially along a top edge of the rear wall of the receptacle portion;

wherein the receptacle portion comprises an aperture configured to receive the clip such that the clip engages the closed bottom end of the receptacle portion, and wherein the closed front end of the receptacle portion overlies a portion of the rear wall of the receptacle portion when the clip is engaged with the closed bottom end of the receptacle portion.

13. The kit of claim 12, wherein the container-box portion has a first height extending between the hinge line and the closed bottom end of the container-box portion, wherein the receptacle-box portion has a second height extending between the top of the receptacle-box portion and the bottom of the receptacle-box portion in a direction parallel to the first height when the clip is engaged with the closed bottom end of the container-box portion, and wherein the second height is equal to or greater than the first height.

14. The kit according to claim 13, wherein the container lid portion has a third height extending between the hinge line and the closed top end of the container lid portion, and wherein the distance between the top of the receptacle box portion and the hinge line is equal to or greater than the third height when the clip is engaged with the closed bottom end of the container box portion.

15. The kit of claim 14, wherein the base portion comprises a top surface and an opposing bottom surface, wherein the clip overlies the top surface of the base portion, and wherein the height of the base portion between the top surface and the bottom surface is equal to or greater than the third height of the container lid portion.

16. A receptacle for storing one or more used aerosol-generating articles, the receptacle comprising:

a skirt portion extending from the box portion around a periphery of a bottom end of the box portion, wherein the skirt portion defines a cavity for receiving a portion of a container of aerosol-generating articles.

17. A kit comprising a receptacle according to claim 16 and a container for aerosol-generating articles, the container comprising a container box portion and a container lid portion, the container lid portion depending from the container box portion along a hinge line, wherein the cavity is configured to receive at least a portion of the container lid portion by an interference fit.