JP5511825B2 - Double compartment slide-shell container - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a slide-shell container that includes at least two compartments that find particular use as a container for smoking articles and other consumer goods.

  It is known to package consumer goods in a container that contains an outer shell and consumer goods and includes an inner slide or tray that is slidable within the outer shell. In order to remove the consumer goods from such a container, the consumer can partially expose the open end or side of the inner slide, through which the consumer goods contained therein can then be removed. The inner slide is slid from an initial position in the shell to an open position where the inner slide projects outwardly from the outer shell.

  US-A-2,058,710 discloses a composite ash and cigarette container that includes an outer casing sleeve that is open at the end and an inner drawer that is slidable within the casing sleeve. The drawer is divided into a cigarette compartment and a relatively small ash compartment. To access the cigarette compartment, the consumer slides the drawer in one direction until the cigarette compartment projects outwardly through one end of the casing sleeve. To access the ash compartment, the consumer slides the drawer in the opposite direction until the ash compartment projects outwardly through the other end of the casing sleeve. It is not possible for a consumer to access the contents of both the cigarette compartment and the ash compartment of a container of US-A-2,058,710 simultaneously.

  EP-A-0 059 915 discloses a container for a cigarette comprising an open-ended outer casing and two abutting inner containers arranged end to end within the casing. It is not possible for a consumer to access the contents of both inner containers of EP-A-0 059 915 at the same time without removing at least one of the inner containers completely from its outer casing.

US-A-2,058,710 EP-A-0 059 915 US-A-4,714,082 US-A-5,692,525 WO-A2-2007 / 029120 WO-A2-2007 / 026260 US-A-4,717,017

  US-A-2,058,710 and EP-A-0 059 915 of the type disclosed in the outer casing and inner drawer or one or more outer surfaces of two inner compartments are consumed It can be printed or otherwise decorated so that one can distinguish between the two inner compartments or the opposite ends of the outer casing or inner drawer. This can reduce the risk of a consumer accidentally moving the inner drawer or the two inner containers in the wrong direction, thereby accessing the contents of the “wrong” compartment or inner container, It also disadvantageously reduces the outer surface area of the outer casing or inner drawer and / or the two inner containers available to carry other advertisements, promotions, or product information.

  According to the present invention, there is an outer shell, a first compartment with a first access opening and a second compartment with a second access opening, the inside of the first and second compartments being inaccessible. The first and second access openings can be slidable in the outer shell between a closed position where the first and second access openings are blocked by the outer shell and an open position where both the first and second compartments are accessible. A dual compartment slide-shell container is provided. In the open position, the second access opening of the inner slide has a third access opening provided in the outer shell such that the second section of the inner slide is accessible through the second and third access openings. Align substantially.

  In a dual compartment slide-shell container according to the present invention, the first and second compartments of the inner slide are both accessible in the open position. In contrast to the slide-shell container disclosed in US-A-2,058,710 and EP-A-0 059 915, the consumer can change the two of the inner slides by moving the inner slide in the wrong direction. It is not possible to accidentally access the contents of the other of the two compartments of the inner slide but not the contents of one of the compartments. This is particularly advantageous when the contents of the first and second compartments of the double compartment slide-shell container inner slide according to the invention are different. However, it also gives consumers the possibility of accidentally accessing an empty compartment when one of the first and second compartments of the inner slide is empty and the other is still at least partially filled. This is advantageous because it lowers.

  The term “access opening” is used to refer to any opening through which the interior of the first or second compartment of the inner slide is accessible in an open position. The first, second, and third access openings may be the same or different. In particular, the first and second access openings may be open surfaces of the first and second compartments of the inner slide.

  In a preferred embodiment, at least a portion of the first access opening of the first section of the inner slide is opened in the open position such that the interior of the first section of the inner slide is accessible through the first access opening. Projects outward from the outer shell through the edge.

  In order to facilitate access to the interior of the first compartment through the first access opening, the portion of the first compartment that protrudes outward from the outer shell in the open position is inward for pivotal movement relative thereto. A hinged connection can be made to the rest of the slide.

  Preferably, at least one notch or notch is provided along the free edge of the open end of the outer shell. More preferably, a pair of opposing notches or notches are provided along opposing free edges at the open end of the outer shell. In use, the consumer advantageously holds the outer shell with one hand and slides along the free edge of the open end of the outer shell with one hand to slide the inner slide from the closed position to the open position. The inner slide can be gripped by one or more notches provided.

  In addition to or in addition to the provision of at least one notch along the free edge of the open end of the outer shell, in order to facilitate the movement of the inner slide from the closed position to the open position by the consumer An opening or window can be provided in the wall of the outer shell opposite the open end. An opening provided in the wall of the outer shell opposite the open end can extend into the adjacent wall of the outer shell opposite the third access opening.

  In use, the consumer can push the inner slide through an opening provided in the wall of the outer shell to slide the inner slide from the closed position to the open position. Providing an opening or window in the outer shell wall opposite its open end allows the consumer to advantageously open the slide-shell container according to the present invention using one hand.

  Preferably, the inner slide covers the first access opening in the closed position and is movable to a position where at least a portion of the first access opening protruding outward from the outer shell in the open position is not covered. Includes compartment cover. More preferably, the inner slide includes a first compartment cover having a hinged flap pivotable to a position where at least a portion of the first access opening protruding outwardly from the outer shell in the open position is not covered.

  In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, the first access opening of the first section of the inner slide is open such that the first section of the inner slide is accessible through the first and fourth access openings. In position substantially aligned with a fourth access opening provided in the outer shell. In this alternative embodiment, the inner slide also covers the first access opening in the closed position and is movable to a position where at least a portion of the first access opening is not covered in the open position. Can further be included. More preferably, the inner slide includes a first compartment cover having a hinged flap pivotable to a position where at least a portion of the first access opening is not covered in the open position.

  Where the inner slide further comprises a first compartment cover having a hinged flap, preferably at least one notch or notch is provided along the free edge of the hinged flap so that the consumer flap in the open position Pivot rotation becomes easier. Inclusion of the first compartment cover advantageously provides additional surface area on which manufacturer or brand logos, trade marks, slogans, and other consumer information and indicia can be displayed. For example, the inner slide can include a first compartment cover having a hinged flap, and at least a portion of the inner and outer surfaces of the flap is decorated with consumer information printed, embossed, debossed, or otherwise. (E.g., using labels or stickers).

  Preferably, the inner slide includes a second compartment cover that covers the second access opening in the closed position and is movable to a position where at least a portion of the second access opening is not covered in the open position. More preferably, the inner slide includes a second compartment cover having a hinged flap that is pivotable to an open position where at least a portion of the second access opening is not covered. Preferably, at least one notch or notch is provided along the free edge of the hinged flap to facilitate consumer pivoting of the flap in the open position. Inclusion of the second compartment cover advantageously provides additional surface area on which manufacturer or brand logos, trade marks, slogans, and other consumer information and indicia can be displayed. For example, the inner slide may include a second compartment cover having a hinged flap, and at least a portion of the inner and outer surfaces of the flap is decorated with consumer information printed, embossed, debossed, or otherwise. (E.g., using labels or stickers).

  In a preferred embodiment, the inner slide includes a first compartment cover and a second compartment cover. However, it will be appreciated that a dual compartment slide-shell container according to the present invention may have an inner slide that includes only one of the first compartment cover and the second compartment cover.

  The inner slide is between the closed and open positions through at least one intermediate position in which the interior of one of the first and second compartments is inaccessible and the interior of the other of the first and second compartments is accessible. Can be slidable within the outer shell. For example, the inner slide has first and second access openings such that one interior of one of the first and second compartments is inaccessible and the other interior of the first and second compartments is accessible. Can be made slidable in the outer shell between a closed position and an open position through an intermediate position in which only one of them is blocked by the outer shell.

  Preferably, the inner slide slides in the outer shell between a closed position and an open position through at least one intermediate position where the interior of the second compartment is inaccessible and the interior of the first compartment is accessible Is possible. More preferably, the inner slide has the second access opening obstructed by the outer shell such that the interior of the second compartment is inaccessible and the interior of the first compartment of the inner slide passes through the first access opening. At least a portion of the first access opening is slidable in the outer shell between a closed position and an open position through at least one intermediate position projecting outwardly from the outer shell through its open end so as to be accessible .

  Preferably, the container includes retaining means for preventing the inner slide from being removed from the outer shell. For example, the container can include one or more flaps, tabs, or other mechanical retention means to prevent the inner slide from being removed from the outer shell. Preferably, the holding means restricts or substantially prevents sliding movement of the inner slide beyond the open position. The retaining means may include a first retaining means on the outer shell and a second retaining means on the inner slide to cooperate during use to prevent sliding movement beyond the open position of the inner slide. it can. For example, the holding means can cooperate during use to prevent sliding movement beyond the open position of the inner slide, at least one hinged flap on the outer shell, and at least one fixed protrusion on the inner slide. Parts.

  In a preferred embodiment, the holding means is between a closed position and an open position in which the interior of one of the first and second compartments is inaccessible and the interior of the other of the first and second compartments is accessible. At least one intermediate position is defined.

  Preferably, the first compartment and the second compartment of the inner slide are separated from each other by a partition that substantially prevents cross-contamination between the contents of the first and second compartments during normal use of the container. . This is because either the first and second compartments of the inner slide contain different consumer goods, as described in more detail below, or one of the first and second compartments of the inner slide is a consumer goods. And is particularly desirable when the other of the first and second compartments of the inner slide is a waste compartment.

  The first compartment and the second compartment of the inner slide can be separated from each other by an integral or non-integral partition.

  The first and second access openings of the first and second compartments of the inner slide can be the same or different dimensions. The second access opening of the second section of the inner slide and the third access opening of the outer shell can also be the same or different dimensions. Preferably, the dimension of the second access opening is substantially the same as or larger than the dimension of the third access opening.

  When in the open position, the first access opening of the first section of the inner slide is aligned with the fourth access opening provided in the outer shell, and the first access opening and the fourth access opening are the same. Or different dimensions. Preferably, the dimension of the first access opening is substantially the same as or larger than the dimension of the fourth access opening.

  The first and second compartments of the inner slide can be the same or different sizes. Preferably, the first and second compartments of the inner slide are of different sizes. More preferably, the first compartment of the inner slide is larger than its second compartment. If the first compartment of the inner slide is larger than its second compartment (i.e. the double compartment slide-shell container according to the invention comprises an inner slide comprising a primary first compartment and a secondary second compartment). The first access opening in the first compartment is preferably larger than the second access opening in the second compartment.

  The dual compartment slide-shell container according to the present invention can be used as a package for various consumer goods. In a particularly preferred embodiment, at least one of the first and second compartments of the inner slide is used to package a smoking article. Dual compartment slide-shell containers according to the present invention include, but are not limited to, conventional ignition end cigarettes, cigars or cigarillos, heated smoking articles including flammable fuel elements or heat sources, and aerosol generation For use in substrates (such as cigarettes of the type disclosed in US-A-4,714,082) and electric smoking systems (such as cigarettes of the type disclosed in US-A-5,692,525) It can be advantageously used to package smoking articles, including smoking articles for use.

  The first and second compartments of the inner slide can accommodate the same or different consumer goods. In one preferred embodiment, the first and second compartments of the inner slide contain different consumer goods. For example, one of the first and second compartments can contain a plurality of smoking articles, and the other of the first and second compartments can contain a plurality of matches, lighters, or another ignition device. Can do.

  In another preferred embodiment, one of the first and second compartments of the inner slide contains a plurality of consumer goods, and the other of the first and second compartments of the inner slide is a “waste compartment”. . In this embodiment, the first and second compartments of the inner slide are both accessible in the open position, advantageously providing a visible rest or prompting the consumer to empty the waste compartment. be able to. Preferably, the first compartment of the inner slide contains a plurality of consumer goods and the second compartment of the inner slide is a waste compartment.

  The waste compartment can be used to contain waste material resulting from the use of some or all of the consumer goods contained in the other compartment of the inner slide. For example, by appropriately selecting its dimensions, the waste compartment can be used to contain waste material generated as a result of using all consumer goods contained in the other compartment of the inner slide, and the other When all the consumer goods contained in the compartment are used up, they can be discarded along with the rest of the dual compartment slide-shell container. Alternatively, the waste compartment transfers waste material resulting from the use of only a limited number of consumer goods contained in the other compartment of the inner slide to the waste material being transferred to a more permanent waste receptacle. Can be used for temporary storage. Examples of waste materials that can be placed in the waste compartment include, but are not limited to, wrapping paper and other packaging materials that are discarded and the residue of used consumer goods.

  If one of the first and second compartments of the inner slide contains a plurality of consumer goods and the other of the first and second compartments of the inner slide is a waste compartment, the inner slide is preferably closed A cover that covers the access opening of the compartment containing the plurality of consumer goods in the position and is movable to a position where at least a portion of the access opening of the compartment containing the consumer goods is not covered in the open position. For example, if the first compartment of the inner slide contains a plurality of consumer goods and the second compartment of the inner slide is a waste compartment, the inner slide is preferably in the closed position as described above. A first compartment cover is included that covers the one access opening and is movable to a position where at least a portion of the first access opening is not covered in the open position.

  Inclusion of the cover helps to advantageously ensure that any consumer goods remaining in the compartment are retained in the inner slide when the waste compartment is emptied. For example, by keeping the cover in a position that covers the access opening of a compartment containing multiple consumer goods with the inner slide in an open position, the consumer can empty the waste compartment on the inner slide. Without losing any consumer goods left there, the double compartment slide-shell container can be turned upside down.

  In a preferred embodiment, one of the first and second compartments of the inner slide contains a plurality of smoking articles, and the other of the first and second compartments of the inner slide uses some or all of the smoking articles. A waste compartment for containing one or more of the resulting ash and butts. For example, one of the first and second compartments contains a plurality of heated smoking articles including a combustible fuel element or heat source and a plurality of smoking articles for use in an aerosol generating substrate or an electric smoking system; The other of the first and second compartments can be a waste compartment that can accommodate one or more of the smoking articles after use. In contrast to conventional ignition end cigarettes, the length of a heated smoking article comprising a combustible fuel element or heat source and an aerosol generating substrate and the length of a smoking article for use in an electric smoking system is Not significantly decreased during.

  In a particularly preferred embodiment, the inner slide occurs as a result of using a primary first compartment for receiving a plurality of smoking articles or other consumer goods and a limited number of smoking articles or consumer goods. And a secondary secondary compartment for temporarily containing waste material. For example, the first compartment of the inner slide contains 20 heated smoking articles including a combustible fuel element or heat source and an aerosol generating substrate, and the second compartment of the inner slide has two “used” heating. It can be a waste compartment that can accommodate a type smoking article.

  In the case of a waste compartment where one of the first and second compartments of the inner slide is intended to receive one or more used smoking articles, the waste compartment is at least partially one or Formed from more single layer or multilayer heat-resistant materials, one or more single layer or multilayer heat conducting materials, one or more single layer or multilayer heat insulating materials, or combinations thereof be able to. Suitable materials include, but are not limited to, heat resistant cardboard, such as refractory cardboard, laminated cardboard, and foil stamped cardboard, metals such as aluminum and copper, alloys such as steel, polyamides And heat resistant plastics such as polycarbonate, graphite, and combinations thereof. For example, the waste compartment can be formed at least partially from aluminum laminated cardboard having an aluminum thickness of between about 5 μm and about 50 μm. In a preferred embodiment, the waste compartment can be formed at least partially from aluminum cardboard having an aluminum thickness of between about 5 μm and about 50 μm.

  Alternatively or additionally, the waste compartment may comprise one or more refractory materials, one or more thermally conductive materials, one or more thermally insulating materials, or The combination can be at least partially coated or lined. For example, the waste compartment can be at least partially lined with aluminum foil or heat resistant varnish or ink, and other surface treatments can be applied to at least a portion thereof.

  One or more refractory materials, one or more thermally conductive materials, one or more thermally insulating materials, or combinations thereof can be placed in the waste compartment in any suitable manner. It can be applied to. For example, one or more heat resistant varnishes, inks, or other for at least a portion of the interior of the waste compartment using printing techniques such as gravure, offset, silkscreen, or flexographic printing The material can be applied and one or more heat resistant coatings, adhesives, or other for at least a portion of the interior of the waste compartment using spray, printing, or brushing techniques The material can be applied and heat transfer or high temperature foil technology can be used to apply one or more heat conductive foils or other materials to at least a portion of the interior of the waste compartment. One or more heat-resistant fibers, such as glass, stone, or carbon fiber, for at least a portion of the interior of the waste compartment using flocking technology Applying one or more heat-resistant papers or foils, such as ceramic fibers or graphite foil, to at least a portion of the interior of the waste compartment using a lamination technique. Or any combination thereof can be applied.

  At least a portion of the waste compartment from or using one or more refractory materials, one or more thermally conductive materials, one or more thermally insulating materials, or combinations thereof Once formed, coated, or lined, the outer temperature of the dual compartment slide-shell container is predetermined during use due to the heat generated by the used smoking articles placed in the waste compartment during their fire fighting. It advantageously assists in ensuring that it does not rise above a satisfactory level of. This is because the waste compartment of the double compartment slide-shell container inner slide according to the present invention receives one or more used heated smoking articles comprising a combustible heat source or fuel element and an aerosol generating substrate. This is especially beneficial when intended.

  One of the first and second compartments of the inner slide is a waste compartment intended to receive one or more used heated smoking articles comprising a combustible fuel element or heat source and an aerosol generating substrate. In some cases, the structure and composition of the waste compartment is preferably such that, during use, the outer surface temperature of the dual compartment slide-shell container is greater than about 60 ° C, more preferably about 50 ° C, most preferably greater than about 40 ° C. There is no such thing.

  The waste compartment is at least partially formed, coated, or using one or more materials that perform a single function selected from the group consisting of heat resistance, heat conduction, and heat insulation Can be backed. For example, the waste compartment is at least partially formed, coated, or lined with a material comprising multiple layers each selected from the group consisting of heat resistance, heat conduction, and heat insulation, each performing a single function. can do. For example, the waste compartment may be formed, coated, or at least partially using a multi-layer material that includes a first layer of refractory material, a second layer of thermally conductive material, and a third layer of thermally insulating material. Can be backed.

  Alternatively or additionally, the waste compartment is at least using one or more materials that perform two functions selected from the group consisting of heat resistance, heat conduction, and heat insulation. It can be partially formed, coated, or lined. For example, the waste material can be at least partially formed, coated, or lined with one or more materials that are heat and heat conductive, such as, for example, aluminum. For example, the waste material can be at least partially formed, coated, or lined with a multilayer material that includes a first layer of heat and heat conducting material and a second layer of thermally insulating material.

  In yet another embodiment, the waste compartment is at least partially formed, coated, using one or more materials that are heat resistant, thermally conductive, and thermally insulating, such as, for example, graphite foil. Or it can be lined.

  At least partially forming, coating, or lining the waste compartment from or using one or more thermally insulating materials helps to advantageously protect the container from damage.

  Within a waste compartment, where at least partially forming, coating, or lining the waste compartment from or using one or more thermally conductive materials may result in a high local external surface temperature of the container It advantageously helps to reduce or prevent local accumulation of heat. Further, by dissipating the heat generated by the combustible heat source or its fuel elements, one or more heat conducting materials extinguish used heated smoking articles placed in the waste compartment. Is advantageously an aid.

  When the waste compartment is at least partially formed, covered, or lined from one or more thermally insulating materials, the container is removed from the used heated smoking article placed in the waste compartment. Heat transfer to the outer surface is advantageously reduced or prevented.

  If one of the first and second compartments of the inner slide is a waste compartment, the inner slide covers the waste compartment access opening in the closed position and at least the waste compartment access opening in the open position. A waste compartment cover that can be moved to a position where a portion is not covered can be advantageously included. For example, if the second compartment of the inner slide is a waste compartment, the inner slide preferably covers the second access opening in the closed position and the second access opening in the open position, as described above. A second compartment cover is included that is movable to a position where at least a portion is not covered.

  The waste compartment and the waste compartment cover can be formed from the same or different materials. Preferably, the waste compartment and the waste compartment cover are formed from the same or similar materials.

  It is particularly preferred to include a waste compartment cover when one of the first and second compartments of the inner slide is a waste compartment intended to receive one or more used smoking articles. In such an embodiment, the waste compartment cover reduces the amount of oxygen that can enter the waste compartment in the closed position so that used smoking articles placed therein can be extinguished faster. Advantageously to help. This is particularly beneficial when the waste compartment of the inner slide is intended to receive a used heated smoking article comprising a combustible heat source or fuel element and an aerosol generating substrate.

  If one of the first and second compartments of the inner slide is a waste compartment intended to receive one or more used smoking articles, the waste compartment cover may be one or more Advantages at least in part from many single layer or multilayer refractory materials, one or more single layer or multilayer heat conducting materials, one or more single layer or multilayer heat insulating materials, or combinations thereof Can be formed.

  Alternatively or additionally, the waste compartment cover may be one or more refractory materials, one or more thermally conductive materials, one or more thermally insulating materials, or The combination can be used to at least partially cover or line.

  Suitable heat resistant, thermally conductive, and thermally insulating materials from which the waste compartment cover can be formed, coated, or lined at least partially using or include those described above for the waste compartment.

  As described above, discarded from or using one or more refractory materials, one or more thermally conductive materials, one or more thermally insulating materials, or combinations thereof Partially forming, covering, or lining the material compartment cover advantageously helps protect the container from thermal damage and reduces or prevents local accumulation of heat in the waste compartment. Help to dissipate the heat generated by the used smoking article placed in the waste compartment and reduce heat transfer on the outer surface of the container from the used smoking article placed in the waste compartment Can help to prevent, or a combination thereof. This is particularly beneficial when the waste compartment is intended to receive a used heated smoking article comprising a combustible heat source or fuel element and an aerosol generating substrate.

  A thermal indicator comprising at least one reversible thermochromic material can be provided on the outer surface of the waste compartment cover. Alternatively or additionally, a thermal indicator comprising at least one reversible thermochromic material can be provided on the outer surface of a portion of the outer shell that overlaps the waste compartment in the closed position. Throughout this specification, the term “reversible thermochromic material” is used to refer to any material that undergoes a reversible visible color change in response to a temperature above a predetermined switching temperature.

  In use, using a reversible visible color change of at least one thermochromic material, a thermal indicator on one or both of the waste compartment cover and the outer shell provides a visual indication of the temperature change in the waste compartment. Provide to consumers in an advantageous manner. Providing a thermal indicator on one or both of the waste compartment cover and the outer shell is intended for the waste compartment to receive a used heated smoking article comprising a combustible heat source or fuel element and an aerosol generating substrate. This is particularly preferable.

  One or more on a portion of the outer shell that overlaps the waste compartment cover in the closed position to allow the consumer to see the thermal indicator provided on the waste compartment cover when the inner slide is in the closed position. More openings or windows can be provided. For example, if the second compartment of the inner slide is a waste compartment, one or more openings or windows favor the portion of the outer shell that overlaps the second compartment cover and the second access opening in the closed position. Can be provided.

  The thermal indicator can include at least one thermochromic material that undergoes a reversible visible color change from a colored state to a substantially colorless state when heated above a predetermined switching temperature. In this case, the at least one reversible thermochromic material returns from a substantially colorless state to a colored state when the temperature drops below a predetermined switching temperature.

  Alternatively or additionally, the thermal indicator comprises at least one thermochromic material that undergoes a reversible visible color change from the second colored state to the first colored state when heated above a predetermined switching temperature. Can be included. In this case, the at least one reversible thermochromic material returns from the first colored state to the second colored state when the temperature drops below a predetermined switching temperature.

  In addition to the at least one thermochromic material, the thermal indicator can further include at least one non-thermochromic colored material. The thermal indicator can be formed by applying at least one thermochromic material and at least one non-thermochromic colored material separately or in combination with one or both of the waste compartment cover and the outer shell.

  For example, the thermal indicator may include a thermochromic material comprising a mixture of one or more thermochromic pigments or dyes and one or more non-thermochromic pigments or dyes in the waste compartment cover and outer shell. It may include one or more dots, lines, symbols, logos, words, or other indicia formed by applying to one or both.

  Alternatively or additionally, the thermal indicator applies a base layer of non-thermochromic coloring material to one or more outer surfaces of the waste compartment cover and outer shell, and then non-thermochromic It can include one or more dots, lines, symbols, logos, words, or other indicia formed by applying an outer layer of thermochromic material over the base layer of coloring material.

  For example, a thermal indicator is formed from a non-thermochromic colored material covered by a layer of thermochromic material that undergoes a reversible visible color change from a colored state to a substantially colorless state when heated above a predetermined switching temperature. One or more indicia may be included. At temperatures below the switching temperature, only a layer of thermochromic material is visible. However, at temperatures above the switching temperature, one or more indicia of non-thermochromic material covered by a layer of thermochromic material is visible.

  Thermochromic materials suitable for use in thermal indicators are commercially available in a variety of formulations including, but not limited to, powders, inks, paints, and other coating compositions. A microencapsulated leuco dye that undergoes a reversible visible color change when heated above a predetermined switching temperature suitable for use in a thermal indicator is from Gem'innov, Gemenos, France, under the name "Live co1ors" and ChromaZone® and Thermostar® brands are commercially available from “Thermologic Measurements Ltd” of Honton, UK.

  In preferred embodiments, the at least one thermochromic material comprises one or more thermochromic dyes, one or more thermochromic pigments, or a combination thereof dispersed in a liquid carrier or medium. . More preferably, the thermal indicator includes at least one thermochromic ink.

  The thermal indicator can be formed by applying at least one thermochromic material to the waste compartment cover in any suitable manner. For example, the at least one thermochromic material can be applied or secured to one or both of the waste compartment cover and the outer shell by adhesive, brushing, coating, stamping, or other methods. Preferably, at least one thermochromic material is printed on one or both of the waste compartment cover and the outer shell.

  By appropriate selection of at least one reversible thermochromic material, the thermal indicator can provide the consumer with one or more desirable visual indications at one or more desirable temperatures. . For example, a thermal indicator may be provided on one or both of the waste compartment cover and the outer shell to provide the consumer with a visual indication of when the used smoking article in the waste compartment has disappeared and can be disposed of. One or more thermochromic materials can be advantageously included that undergo a reversible visible color change from a substantially colorless state to a colored state when the temperature drops below a predetermined temperature. The thermal indicator is, for example, one or more dots, lines formed from a thermochromic material that is visible only when the used smoking article in the waste compartment is sufficiently cooled to a temperature that can be disposed of. Can include symbols, logos, words, and other indicia.

  For example, the thermal indicator may print a base layer of red non-thermochromic ink on the outer surface of one or both of the waste compartment cover and outer shell, and then approximately predetermined on the base layer of non-thermochromic coloring material. It can be formed by applying an outer layer of thermochromic material that undergoes a reversible visible color change from blue to substantially colorless when heated above temperature (eg, above about 60 ° C.). In use, when the waste compartment is empty and at room temperature, only the blue outer layer of thermochromic material is visible. When a used heated smoking article containing a combustible heat source or fuel element and an aerosol generating substrate is placed in the waste compartment, the temperature in the waste compartment will be combustible before extinguishing the heated smoking article. It may rise above a predetermined temperature (eg, above approximately 60 ° C.) due to heat generated by the heat source or fuel element. This causes the thermochromic material to undergo a reversible visible color change from blue to substantially colorless, so that the base layer of the red non-thermochromic material is visible. With the combustible heat source or fuel element extinguished, the temperature in the waste compartment gradually drops to below a predetermined temperature (eg, below about 60 ° C.), which causes the thermochromic material to be substantially It will return from colorless to blue. The “reproduction” of the blue outer layer of the thermochromic material advantageously informs the consumer that the used heated smoking article in the waste compartment has been successfully extinguished and can be disposed of. Alternatively or additionally, the “reproduction” of the blue outer layer of thermochromic material favors the consumer that additional used heated smoking articles can be placed in the waste compartment for fire fighting. Inform.

  If necessary, a fire extinguishing substance can be advantageously provided in the waste compartment to assist in extinguishing used heated smoking articles placed therein. For example, the fire extinguishing substrate can be provided on at least a portion of the inner surface of the waste compartment. Alternatively or additionally, the waste compartment can be partially filled with fire extinguishing material. Including a fire extinguishing substance in the waste compartment to assist in extinguishing used smoking articles placed inside after smoking is possible within the other compartment of the double compartment slide-shell container inner slide according to the present invention. It is particularly advantageous when the plurality of contained smoking articles are heated smoking articles that include a combustible heat source or fuel element.

  The waste compartment can contain any suitable fire extinguishing material. For example, the fire extinguishing material may contain one or more water or may include a water-based paste or gel, one or more doughs, or combinations thereof.

  As an alternative to or in addition to fire extinguishing materials, the waste compartment may contain a fire extinguishing device such as a candle extinguisher. Alternatively or additionally, a candle extinguisher or other fire extinguishing device can be attached, for example, to the outer shell or inner slide of the container, or housed in a separate further compartment of the inner slide.

  Through an appropriate selection of its dimensions, the double compartment slide-inner slide of the shell container according to the present invention can accommodate different numbers of smoking articles. For example, the inner slide can accommodate a total of 10 to 20 smoking articles. Alternatively or additionally, the dual compartment slide-inner slide of the shell container of the present invention can accommodate smoking articles of different sizes (eg, smoking articles of different lengths or different perimeters). For example, the inner slide can accommodate a smoking article having a length between about 60 mm and 120 mm and a diameter between 4 mm and 9 mm.

  With appropriate selection of the dimensions, if both the first compartment and the second compartment contain smoking articles, the first and second compartments can contain the same or different numbers of smoking articles. . For example, each of the first and second compartments of the inner slide can accommodate between 5 and 10 smoking articles. Alternatively or additionally, the first and second compartments of the inner slide may be the same or different types of smoking articles (eg, different dimensions, filters, tobacco formulations, flavors, total particulate matter delivery, and nicotine A quantity of smoking articles) can be accommodated.

  A smoking article housed in an inner slide of a dual compartment slide-shell container according to the present invention can be wrapped in a conventional manner, for example, in an inner liner of metal foil or metallized paper.

  The combustible heat source or fuel element of the heated smoking article can be sensitive to moisture uptake. When a double compartment slide-shell container inner slide according to the present invention contains such a heated smoking article, the heated smoking article is preferably in an inner liner formed from a flexible moisture barrier material. Wrapped. Suitable flexible barrier materials include, but are not limited to, polymer materials such as oriented polypropylene (OPP), metallized polymer materials such as metallized OPP, and polypropylene / aluminum / polypropylene laminate films. Including laminated polymer films. In order to provide moisture protection and easy access to the heated smoking article, the inner liner formed from a flexible moisture barrier material preferably includes a resealable label.

  The outer shell and inner slide of the container according to the present invention can be formed from any suitable material including, but not limited to, cardboard, paperboard, plastic, metal, or combinations thereof. The outer shell and the inner slide can be formed from the same or different materials. Preferably, the outer shell and the inner slide can be formed from a folded laminated blank, such as a folded laminated cardboard blank.

  The outer shell can be formed from a single folded laminated blank, or two or more separate folded laminated blanks. Preferably, the outer shell is formed from a single folded laminated blank.

  The inner slide can be formed from a single laminated blank material that is folded, or two or more separate folded laminated blank materials. One of the first and second compartments of the inner slide contains a plurality of smoking articles, and the other of the first and second compartments of the inner slide receives one or more used smoking articles. In the case of the intended waste compartment, the first and second compartments of the inner slide are advantageously formed from separate folded laminated blanks. Forming the first and second compartments from separate laminated blanks allows the compartment containing the plurality of smoking articles and the waste compartment to be formed from different materials. For example, a compartment containing multiple smoking articles can be formed from a single folded laminated blank, and a waste compartment can have one or more heat and heat resistances as described above. It can be at least partially formed, coated, or lined from materials or using them. This includes a plurality of heated smoking articles, wherein one of the first and second compartments of the inner slide contains a combustible heat source or fuel element and an aerosol generating substrate, and the other of the first and second compartments of the inner slide. Is particularly preferred when the waste compartment is intended to contain and extinguish one or more used heated articles.

  Containers according to the present invention are any suitable known materials or materials including, but not limited to, cellophane, polymer films of, for example, polyethylene or polypropylene, metallized polymer films, and laminated polymer films. Can be packaged in a known manner using a combination of Containers according to the present invention can be overwrapped using top wrapping paper containing one or more opening tapes. One or more opening tapes can extend laterally or longitudinally around the perimeter of the container.

  The outer and inner surfaces of the outer shell and inner slide may be decorated with a manufacturer or brand logo, trade mark, slogan, and other consumer information and indicia printed, embossed, debossed, or otherwise ( (For example, using labels or stickers).

  The inner and outer surfaces of the first and second compartments of the inner slide can be printed or otherwise decorated in the same or different ways. For example, if the first and second compartments contain different consumer goods, the inner surfaces of the first and second compartments may be advantageous in different ways to emphasize that different consumer goods are contained inside. Can be printed on. Further, if one of the first and second compartments of the inner slide contains a plurality of consumer goods and the other of the first and second compartments of the inner slide is a waste compartment, the waste compartment is Can be advantageously printed or otherwise decorated differently from the rest of the container to highlight litter and prevent littering. For example, the inner surface of the waste compartment can be a different color than the rest of the container.

  In contrast to the slide-shell container disclosed in US-A-2,058,710 and EP-A-0 059 915, the first and second of the double compartment slide-inner slide of the shell container according to the invention. Both compartments are accessible in the open position. Advertising, as it reduces or eliminates the need to print or otherwise decorate the outer surface of the outer shell and inner slide to reduce the possibility of consumers accidentally accessing the “wrong” compartment The outer surface area of the inner slide and outer shell available for carrying promotional or product information is advantageously maximized.

  The outer shell and the inner slide may be substantially cuboid shaped including a right longitudinal and right transverse edge. Alternatively, the outer shell and the inner slide include one or more round longitudinal edges, round lateral edges, chamfered longitudinal edges, chamfered lateral edges, or combinations thereof. be able to. For example, the "round corner" multi-compartment slide-shell container of the present invention can be produced by cutting in a known manner into the laminated blank from which the outer shell and inner slide of the container are assembled.

  Preferably, the inner method of the outer shell is substantially the same as the outer method of the inner slide so that in the closed position, the inner surface of the outer shell overlaps and abuts the outer surface of the inner slide. During use, the frictional force generated between the outer surface of the inner slide and the inner surface of the abutting outer shell resists the sliding movement of the inner slide between the closed position and the open position. This advantageously prevents opening and closing of the container without the consumer applying positive force.

  The dual compartment slide-shell container according to the present invention may further comprise an aroma release system. The fragrance release system is fragrant when the double compartment slide-shell container is opened, or when the double compartment slide-shell container is closed, or when the double compartment slide-shell container is both opened and closed. Can be released. Throughout this specification, the term “fragrance” is used to mean any substance capable of producing an olfactory sensation, including, but not limited to, aroma, fragrance, perfume, deodorant, and flavor. Includes charges. Preferably, the aroma produces both taste and olfactory sensations.

  Aroma release systems suitable for inclusion in a dual compartment slide-shell container according to the present invention are known in the art and are described, for example, in WO-A2-2007 / 029120 and WO-A2-2007 / 026260. .

  When the outer shell inner method is substantially the same as the inner slide outer method, the dual compartment slide-shell container according to the present invention is the result of frictional contact between the outer surface of the inner slide and the inner surface of the abutting outer shell. A fragrance release system that releases fragrance when the container is opened and closed can be advantageously included. For example, the fragrance release system can be printed or otherwise applied by applying one or more microencapsulated flavorings to at least one outer surface of the inner slide, at least one inner surface of the outer shell, or a combination thereof. Can be formed.

  Alternatively or additionally, a dual compartment slide-shell container according to the present invention is described in, but not limited to, WO-A2-2007 / 026260 and US-A-4,717,017. A “opening tape” fragrance release system, in which the fragrance is released when the opening tape incorporated in the top wrapping container is removed, one or more microencapsulated flavors are pre-deposited in between A “peel and sniff” fragrance release system in which the fragrance is released by the physical separation of two strips of film, paper or other material by the consumer, and one or more micros A fragrance is released when a consumer physically scratches or rubs a film, paper, or other material to which an encapsulated flavor is pre-applied. · Sniff "may include other known fragrance release system containing the fragrance emission system.

  The fragrance release system can release any suitable fragrance. Examples of suitable fragrances include, but are not limited to, menthol, tobacco, spearmint, and peppermint.

  The invention will now be further described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings.

1 is a perspective view of an empty multi-compartment slide-shell container according to a first embodiment of the present invention with an inner slide in a closed position. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the container of FIG. 1 in an open position. FIG. FIG. 8 is a plan view of a laminated cardboard blank for forming the outer shell of the container of FIGS. 1, 2 and 7. FIG. 3 is a plan view of a first laminated cardboard blank material for forming a first portion of the inner slide of the container of FIGS. 1 and 2. FIG. 3 is a plan view of a second laminated cardboard blank material for forming a second portion of the inner slide of the container of FIGS. 1 and 2. FIG. 6 is a perspective view of first and second portions of an inner slide of the container of FIGS. 1 and 2 formed by the blank shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, respectively. FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an empty multi-compartment slide-shell container according to a second embodiment of the present invention in an open position. FIG. 8 is a plan view of a first laminated cardboard blank material for forming a first portion of the inner slide of the container of FIG. 7. FIG. 8 is a plan view of a second laminated cardboard blank material for forming a second portion of the inner slide of the container of FIG. 7. FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the first and second blanks of the inner slide of the container of FIG. 7 formed by the blank shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, respectively.

  The slide-shell container 2 according to the first embodiment of the present invention shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 has a rectangular parallelepiped shape, and includes an outer shell 4 and an inner slide 6 in the outer shell 4.

  The outer shell 4 has a front wall 8 and an opposing rear wall 10, a left side wall 12 and an opposing right side wall 14, and a bottom wall 16. The walls 8, 10, 12, 14, 16 of the outer shell 4 have an open upper rectangular end face 18 formed by the front lateral wall 8, the rear wall 10, the left side wall 12 and the upper lateral free edge of the right side wall 12. A cup-shaped receptacle is formed, and the inner slide 6 is inserted therein. A pair of opposed notches 22 are provided at the upper end of the outer shell 4 along the free edge between the left and right side walls 12, 14.

  The terms “front”, “rear”, “upper”, “bottom”, “upper” and “lower” hold the container in an upright position with the open end face 18 of the outer shell 4 at the top of the container 2. When used, it is used to describe the relative positions of the components of the container 2 according to the first embodiment of the invention. In the following description of the container 2 according to the first embodiment of the invention, these terms are used irrespective of the actual orientation of the container 2 or the outer shell 4 or the inner slide 6 shown in FIGS.

  The inner slide 6 of the container 2 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 has a rear wall 24, a left side wall 26 and an opposing right side wall 28, an upper wall 30 and an opposing bottom wall 32. The walls 24, 26, 28, 30, 32 of the inner slide 6 form a tray that is slidable longitudinally inside the outer shell 4 between the closed position shown in FIG. 1 and the open position shown in FIG. . As shown in FIG. 2, a pair of opposed notches 34 are provided along the longitudinal free edges of the left side wall 12 and the right side wall 14 of the inner slide 6 closest to the upper wall 30.

  The integral lateral partition 36 extends between the left side wall 26 and the right side wall 28 of the inner slide 6 closest to its bottom wall 32. The partition 36 has a primary first section 38 extending in the longitudinal direction 6 from the partition 36 to the upper wall 30 of the inner slide 6, and a secondary second extending in the longitudinal direction from the partition 36 to the bottom wall 32 of the inner slide 6. The inside of the inner slide 6 is divided into the compartment 40. The open fronts of the first compartment 38 and the second compartment 40 of the inner slide 6 act as first and second access openings, respectively, through which the first compartment 38 and the second compartment in the open position. The inside of the compartment 40 can be accessed.

  A separate first compartment cover 42 parallel to the rear wall 24 of the inner slide 6 extends from the partition 36 of the inner slide 6 to the upper wall 30. The first compartment cover 42 has a first cover area 44 secured to the partition 36 and a second cover area 46 connected to the first cover area along a lateral hinge line. As shown in FIG. 2, the central notch 48 is provided along the lateral free edge of the second cover section 46 of the first compartment cover 42 adjacent to the upper wall 30 of the inner slide 6.

  In the closed position shown in FIG. 1, the inner slide 6 is adjacent to and overlies the first compartment cover 42, the rear wall 24, the left wall 26, the right wall 28, and the bottom wall 32 of the inner slide 6, respectively. The outer shell 4 is housed in the outer shell 4 including the front wall 8, the rear wall 10, the left side wall 12, the right side wall 14, and the bottom wall 16. As shown in FIG. 1, the first cover area 44 and the second cover area 46 of the first compartment cover 42 extending across the front face of the first compartment 38 of the inner slide 6 and the open front face of the second compartment 40 of the inner slide 6. Is covered by the front wall 8 of the outer shell 4 in the closed position. Thus, the interior of the first compartment 38 and the second compartment 40 of the inner slide 6 are both inaccessible in the closed position shown in FIG.

  In the open position shown in FIG. 2, the bottom wall 32 of the inner slide 6 is spaced apart from the bottom wall 16 of the outer shell 4 and is covered by the second cover area 46 of the first compartment cover 42. A portion of the compartment 38 projects outwardly from the outer shell 4 through its open upper end 18. As shown in FIG. 2, the relative position between the inner slide 6 and the outer shell 4 in the open position is such that the open front of the second section 40 of the inner slide 6 is provided on the front wall 8 of the outer shell 4. Such that it is substantially aligned with the third elongated access opening 20. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the third access opening 20 extends in the direction of the left side wall 12 and the right side wall 14 across the front wall 8 of the outer shell.

  In the container 2 in the open position shown in FIG. 2, the consumer pivots the second cover area 46 of the first compartment cover 42 about the hinge line separating it from the first cover area 46. Access to the first compartment 38 of the inner slide 6 and access to the interior of the second compartment 40 of the inner slide 6 through a third access opening 20 also provided in the front wall 8 of the outer shell 4. can do.

  As a result, the interior of the first compartment 38 and the second compartment 40 of the inner slide 6 are both accessible in the open position shown in FIG.

  In use, using the inner slide 6 in the closed position shown in FIG. 2, the consumer holds the outer shell 4 of the container 2 with one hand and the left side wall of the outer shell 4 with the thumb and index finger of the other hand. The left side wall 26 and the right side wall 28 of the inner slide 6 are gripped through the notched portions 22 provided on the right side wall 12 and the right side wall 14. To open the container 2, the consumer slides the inner slide 6 against the outer shell 4 from the closed position shown in FIG. 1 to the open position shown in FIG. In order to align the open front with the third access opening 20 in the front wall 8 of the outer shell 4, the inner slide 6 is moved away from the outer shell 4 in the direction indicated by the block body arrow in FIG. Pull outwards so that.

  As an alternative or in addition to a pair of opposed notches 22 provided along the lateral free edges of the left and right side walls 12 and 14, the bottom wall 16 of the outer shell 4. Is provided with an opening (not shown) that allows the consumer to press the bottom wall 32 of the inner slide 6 to open the container 2 during use.

  The lateral outer cross-section of the inner slide 6 of the container 2 according to the first embodiment of the invention is substantially equal to the lateral inner cross-section of its outer shell 4, so that during the opening and closing of the container 2 the inner slide 6 The frictional force generated between the outer surface and the inner surface of the outer shell 4 prevents sliding movement of the inner slide 6 relative to the outer shell 4 until a positive force is applied by the consumer.

  As will be described further below, the container 2 further includes holding means for preventing sliding movement of the inner slide 6 relative to the outer shell 4 beyond the open position shown in FIG. With the container 2 in the open position shown in FIG. 2, the consumer grasps the second cover area 46 of the first compartment cover 42 extending across the front face of the first compartment 38 of the inner slide 6 and the first compartment Rotate it backwards to access the smoking article or other consumer goods (not shown) contained within 38. A notch provided along the lateral free edge of the second cover area 46 of the first compartment cover 42 facilitates pivoting movement of the second cover area 46 of the first compartment cover 42 by the consumer. . In use, opposing notches 34 provided along the longitudinal free edges of the left side wall 26 and the right side wall 28 of the inner slide 6 are then accommodated in the first compartment 38 of the inner slide 6. This makes it easy to take out the consumer goods (not shown) from the container 2.

  A unitary laminated cardboard blank that can form the outer shell 4 of the container 2 of FIGS. 1 and 2 is shown in FIG. The single laminated cardboard blanks that can form the first compartment 38, the second compartment 40 and the partition 36, and the first compartment cover 42 of the inner slide 6 of the container 2 of FIGS. 4 and 5.

  Corresponding reference numerals are used in FIGS. 3, 4 and 5 for blank material elements similar or associated with the elements of the outer shell 4 and inner slide 6 of the container 2 of FIGS. 1 and 2 described above. The blank was folded along the appropriate score line (shown in broken lines in FIGS. 3, 4 and 5) in a conventional manner and fixed with an adhesive (with cross-hatching in FIGS. 3 and 4). 1) and 2), including various panels, flaps, and tabs (labeled in bold in FIGS. 3, 4 and 5) that form the outer shell 4 and inner slide 6 of the container 2 shown in FIGS. Throughout this specification, the term score line refers to, for example, creasing, notching, drilling, embossing, or otherwise compressing, cutting, or weakening a blank. Is used to indicate the line formed by

  The blank shown in FIG. 3 for forming the outer shell 4 of the container 2 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 includes a front wall panel 8, a rear wall panel 10, a left side panel 12, an inner right side wall panel 14a, and an outer right side wall. It has a panel 14b, an inner bottom wall panel 16a, and an outer bottom wall panel 16b, which form the corresponding wall of the outer shell 4 when the blank is folded. As shown in FIG. 3, the blank further comprises a pair of lower closure tabs 50 and a pair connected to the lower and upper edges of the left and right side wall panels 12 and 14b, respectively, along the score line. Upper retaining flaps 52 and a pair of upper reinforcing flaps 54 connected to the upper edges of the front wall panel 8 and the rear wall panel 10 along a score line.

  In order to form the outer shell 4, the upper reinforcing flap 54 is folded up to 180 degrees and secured to the inner surfaces of the front wall panel 8 and the rear wall panel 10. The front wall panel 8, the rear wall panel 10, the left side wall panel 12, the inner right side wall panel 14a, and the outer right side wall panel 14b are then folded to form an open end hollow sleeve, and the outer right side wall panel 14b is The inner right side wall panel 14a is fixed. The inner bottom wall panel 16a, the outer bottom wall panel 16b, and the lower closure flap 50 are then folded to 90 degrees and secured together in a known manner, the lower end of the hollow sleeve is closed and the bottom of the outer shell 4 is closed. Is formed. Finally, the upper holding flap 52 is folded up to 180 degrees so as to lean against the inner surfaces of the left side wall panel 12 and the outer right side wall panel 14b in the formed outer shell 4.

  The fold lines formed between the blank upper reinforcing flap 54 and the upper holding flap 52, between the front wall panel 8 and the rear wall panel 10 and between the left side wall panel 12 and the right side wall panel 14 are A clever dull free edge is advantageously provided for each front wall 8, rear wall 10, left side wall 12, and right side wall 14 of the formed outer shell 4.

  The blank shown in FIG. 4 for forming the first compartment 38, the second compartment 40, and the partition 36 of the inner slide 6 of the container 2 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 is the inner slide when the blank is folded. A rear wall panel 24, an inner left wall panel 26a and an outer left wall panel 26b, an inner right wall panel 28a and an outer right wall panel 28b, an inner upper wall panel 30a and an outer upper wall panel 30b, which form six corresponding walls, and It has an inner bottom wall panel 32a and an outer bottom wall panel 32b.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the blank also includes a pair of lower closure tabs 56 connected to opposite side edges of the outer bottom wall panel 32b along the score line, and the outer left wall panel 26b along the score line. And a pair of upper closure tabs 58 connected to the upper edge of the outer right side wall panel 28b, and the inner left side wall panel 26a and the inner right side away from the outer left side wall panel 26b and the outer right side wall panel 28b along the score line. It includes a pair of rear wall reinforcement flaps 60 connected to the longitudinal edges of the wall panel 28a.

  The blank is further divided into a partition bottom wall panel 62, a partition front wall panel 64, and a primary first section 38 and a secondary second section 40 when the blank is folded. A partition 36 of the inner slide 6 to be divided is formed and includes a pair of opposing partition side flaps 66 connected to the side of the partition bottom wall panel 62 along the score line. As shown in FIG. 4, the divider bottom wall panel 62 is blanked so that it overlaps the rear wall 24 of the inner slide 6 in the second compartment 40 and separates the divider 36 from the bottom wall 32 of the inner slide 6. It is connected to the inner bottom wall panel 32a of the blank through a connection panel 68 that is folded during material assembly.

  In order to form the first compartment 38, the second compartment 40 and the partition 36 of the inner slide 6 of the container 2 according to the first embodiment of the invention shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the blank material shown in FIG. Various panels, tabs, and flaps are folded and secured together. During the assembly of the blank material, the opposing partition side wall flaps 66 are fixed to the inner surfaces of the inner left side wall panel 26a and the inner right side wall panel 28a. This ensures that the first compartment 38 and the second compartment 40 of the inner slide 6 of the container 2 are isolated from each other, whereby the first compartment 38 and the second compartment 40 of the inner slide 6 when the container 2 is in use. Cross contamination between the contents of is advantageously reduced or prevented. This is because the first compartment 38 of the inner slide 6 of the container contains a plurality of consumer goods, such as smoking articles, and the second compartment 40 of the inner slide 6 has one or more used smoking articles. It is particularly desirable in embodiments of the present invention if it is a waste compartment for containing one or more consumer goods remnants after use, such as butt butts.

  Including the opposing partition side wall flap 66 along with the inner bottom wall panel 32a, the partition bottom wall panel 62 and the connection panel 68 are also printed by printing only one side of the blank shown in FIG. Without the need to print, both the inner surface of the second section 40 of the inner slide 6 and the outer surface of the inner slide 6 can be advantageously printed.

  Blank material between the inner left wall panel 26a and outer left wall panel 26b and the inner right wall panel 28a and outer right wall panel 28b, between the inner upper wall panel 30a and outer upper wall panel 30b, and the inner bottom wall panel 32a. The fold line formed between the outer bottom wall panel 32b and the outer bottom wall panel 32b is a clever free blunt edge for the left side wall 26, right side wall 28, top wall 30 and bottom wall 32 of the inner slide 6 on which the container is formed. Parts are advantageously provided.

  The rear wall reinforcement flap 60 is folded during blank assembly, so that it overlaps the rear wall 24 of the inner slide 6 of the first compartment 38 and is contained in the first compartment of the inner slide 6 of the container 2. Additional surface area that can be printed, such as information on the composition or use of, is advantageously provided. Including the rear wall reinforcement flap 60 along with the inner left wall panel 26a, the inner right wall panel 28a, and the inner upper wall panel 30a, the rear wall 24, the left wall 26, the right wall 28, the first wall 38 of the first slide 38 of the inner slide 6; And the inner surface of the upper wall 30 and the outer surface of the inner slide 6 can be advantageously printed by printing only one side of the blank shown in FIG. 4, ie without having to print the front and back of the blank. For example, when there is no rear wall reinforcing flap 60, on the inner surface of the rear wall 24 of the inner slide 6 and of the rear wall 24, left side wall 26, right side wall 28, top wall 30, and bottom wall 32 of the inner slide 6 It would be necessary to print on both sides of the blank shown in FIG. 4 to provide printing on one or more outer surfaces.

  In the container shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the rear wall reinforcing flaps 60 are of the same size and are respectively inward so that the longitudinal free edges of the rear wall reinforcing flaps 60 abut each other within the formed inner slide 6. About half the width of the rear wall 24 of the slide 6. However, it will be appreciated that a container according to the present invention may have an inner slide with one or more different sized rear wall reinforcing flaps. For example, the inner slide is a single rear that is substantially the same width as the rear wall connected to either the inner left wall panel, the inner right wall panel, or the inner upper wall panel of the inner slide along the score line. Can have wall reinforcement flaps. It will also be appreciated that a container according to the present invention can include an inner slide in which the rear wall reinforcement flap 60 is omitted. In addition, to reduce the amount of material required to form the inner slide 6 of the container 2 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, and to facilitate folding of the blank shown in FIG. It will be appreciated that one or more of the outer right wall panel 28b and the outer upper wall panel 30b can be omitted.

  The blank shown in FIG. 5 for forming the first compartment cover 42 of the inner slide 6 includes a first cover section panel 44 and a second cover connected along a hinge line (shown by a thick broken line in FIG. 5). It has an area 46 and a pair of opposing retaining tabs 70 connected to the side edges of the first cover area panel 44 along the score line.

  To form the inner slide 6 of the container 2 of FIGS. 1 and 2, the opposing retaining tabs 70 of blank material for forming the first compartment cover 42 shown in FIG. 5 are folded up to 90 degrees. As shown in FIG. 6, the blank first cover area panel 44 and the opposing retention tabs 70 to form the first compartment cover 42 of the inner slide 6 are then the first compartment 38 of the inner slide 6. The second compartment 40 and the blank material folded to form the partition 36 are fixed to the outer surfaces of the partition front wall panel 64, the left side wall panel 26, and the right side wall panel 28, respectively. In order to reduce the amount of material required to form the inner slide 6 of the container 2, the second cover area 46 of the first compartment cover 42 of the inner slide 6 can be omitted.

  The formed inner slide 6 shown in FIG. 6 is then inserted through its open upper end 18 into the formed outer shell to form the container 2 according to the first embodiment of the invention shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. .

  The various panels, flaps and tabs of the single laminated cardboard blank shown in FIGS. 3, 4 and 5 are folded and secured together to form the outer shell 4 and inner slide 6 of the container 2 of FIGS. It will be appreciated that the exact sequence can vary depending on, for example, the equipment used to produce the container 2. It will also be appreciated that the single laminated cardboard blank shown in FIGS. 3, 4 and 5 can be manually folded to form the outer shell 4 and inner slide 6 of the container 2 shown in FIGS. Will be done.

  The upper holding flap 52 of the outer shell 4 is not fixed to the inner surfaces of the left side wall panel 12 and the outer right side wall panel 14 b of the outer shell 4. This is because the opposing upper retaining flap 52 of the outer shell 4 interacts with the opposing retaining tab 70 of the inner slide 6 with the inner slide 6 inserted into the outer shell 4, as will be further described below. Guarantee that. During use, when the inner slide 6 reaches the open position shown in FIG. 2, the upper retaining flap 52 folded inwardly of the outer shell 4 engages the retaining tab 70 of the inner slide 6, thereby causing the outer shell 4. Further sliding movement of the inner slide 6 beyond the open position relative to 4 is advantageously prevented. The interaction between the upper retaining flap 52 of the outer shell 4 and the retaining tab 70 of the inner slide 6 prevents the inner slide 6 of the container 2 from being removed from its outer shell 4.

  The slide-shell container 72 according to the second embodiment of the present invention shown in FIG. 7 is similar in configuration to the slide-shell container according to the first embodiment of the present invention shown in FIGS. The present invention which is similar to or related to the elements of the blank material for forming the slide-shell container 2 and its inner slide according to the first embodiment of the present invention shown in FIGS. Similar reference numerals are used in FIGS. 7, 8 and 9 for the blanks to form the elements of the slide-shell container 72 and its inner slide according to the second embodiment of FIG.

  The slide-shell container 72 according to the second embodiment of the present invention shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 has a rectangular parallelepiped shape and includes an outer shell 4 and an inner slide 6 in the outer shell 4.

  The outer shell 4 of the container 72 according to the second embodiment of the present invention is the same as the outer shell 4 of the container 2 according to the first embodiment of the present invention shown in FIGS. As described above, the outer shell 4 has the front wall 8 and the opposed rear wall 10, the left side wall 12 and the opposed right side wall 14, and the bottom wall 16. The walls 8, 10, 12, 14, 16 of the outer shell 4 have an open upper rectangular end face 18 formed by the front lateral wall 8, the rear wall 10, the left side wall 12 and the upper lateral free edge of the right side wall 12. A cup-shaped receptacle is formed, into which the inner slide 6 is inserted. A pair of opposed notches 22 are provided at the upper end of the outer shell 4 along the free edges of the left side wall 12 and the right side wall 14.

  The terms “front”, “rear”, “upper”, “bottom”, “upper”, and “lower” stand upright such that the upper end of the container 72 has the open end face 18 of its outer shell 4. Used to describe the relative position of the elements of the container 72 according to the second embodiment of the invention when held in position. In the following description of the container 72 according to the second embodiment of the present invention, these terms will be used regardless of the actual orientation of the container 72 or outer shell 4 or inner slide 6 shown in FIGS.

  The inner slide 6 of the container 72 shown in FIG. 7 has a rear wall 24, a left side wall 26 and an opposing right side wall 28, and an upper wall 30 and an opposing bottom wall 32. The walls 24, 26, 28, 30, and 32 of the inner slide 6 form a tray that is slidable longitudinally between a closed position and an open position in the outer shell 4, as shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 7, a pair of opposed notches 34 are provided along the longitudinal free edges of the left side wall 26 and the right side wall 28 of the inner slide 6 closest to the upper wall 30.

  The inner slide 6 of the container 72 according to the second embodiment of the present invention includes a main first compartment 38 and a secondary second compartment 40. The primary first section 38 extends from the top wall 30 of the inner slide 6 that extends laterally between the left and right side walls 26 and 28 of the inner slide 6 closest to the bottom wall 32 to the first section bottom wall 62a. It extends in the longitudinal direction 6. The second section 40 extends from the upper wall 62b of the second section extending laterally between the left side wall 26 and the right side wall 28 of the inner slide 6 parallel and adjacent to the first section bottom wall 62a. Extends vertically to the bottom wall 32. The open fronts of the first compartment 38 and the second compartment 40 of the inner slide 6 are accessible to the interior of the first compartment 38 and the second compartment 40 therethrough in the open position, respectively. Acts as an opening.

  A first compartment cover 42 parallel to the rear wall 24 of the inner slide 6 extends from the first compartment bottom wall 62 a to the upper wall 30 of the inner slide 6. The first compartment cover 42 includes a first cover section 44 connected to the first section bottom wall 62a along the lateral hinge line, and a second cover connected to the first cover section 44 along the lateral hinge line. And an area 46. As shown in FIG. 7, the central notch 48 is provided along the lateral free edge of the second cover section 46 of the first compartment cover 42 adjacent to the upper wall 30 of the inner slide 6.

  A second compartment cover 74 parallel to the rear wall 24 of the inner slide 6 is connected to the bottom wall 32 of the inner slide 6 along the lateral hinge line, from the bottom wall 32 of the inner slide 6 to the second compartment upper wall 62b. It extends. As shown in FIG. 10, a central protrusion or tab is provided along the lateral free edge of the second compartment cover 74 adjacent to the second compartment upper wall 62b.

  In the closed position shown in FIG. 1, the inner slide 6 of the container 72 according to the second embodiment of the present invention is housed in its outer shell 4 and the front wall 8, rear wall 10, left side wall 12 of the outer shell 4. The right side wall 14 and the bottom wall 16 are adjacent to and above the first and second compartment covers 42, 74, the rear wall 24, the left side wall 26, the right side wall 28, and the bottom wall 32 of the inner slide 6, respectively. Overlapping. A first cover area 44 and a second cover area 46 of the first section cover 42 extending over the front face of the first section 38 of the inner slide 6 and a second section cover 74 extending over the front face of the second section 40 of the inner slide 6. Is covered by the front wall 8 of the outer shell 4 in the closed position. Thus, the interior of the first compartment 38 and the second compartment 40 of the inner slide 6 are both inaccessible in the closed position, in which the container 72 according to the second embodiment of the invention is shown in FIG. The external appearance is substantially the same as the container 2 according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

  In the open position shown in FIG. 7, the bottom wall 32 of the inner slide 6 of the container 72 according to the second embodiment of the present invention is separated from the bottom wall 16 of its outer shell 4 and the second cover of the first compartment cover 42. The portion of the first section 38 of the inner slide 6 covered by the area 46 projects outwardly from the outer shell 4 through its open upper end 18. As shown in FIG. 7, the relative position of the inner slide 6 and the outer shell 4 in the open position is such that the second compartment cover 74 extending across the front surface of the second compartment 40 of the inner slide 6 is in front of the outer shell 4. Such that it is substantially aligned with a third elongate access opening 20 provided in the wall 8. As shown in FIG. 7, the third access opening 20 extends across the front wall 8 of the outer shell toward its left side wall 12 and right side wall 14.

  In the open position container 72 shown in FIG. 7, the consumer pivots about the transverse hinge line separating the second cover section 46 of the first compartment cover 42 from its first cover section 44. This allows access to the first compartment 38 of the inner slide 6. In the open position, the consumer also pivots the second compartment cover 74 about a lateral hinge line along which the second compartment cover 74 is connected to the bottom wall 32 of the inner slide 6. Access to the second compartment 40 of the inner slide 6 through a third access opening 20 provided in the front wall 8 of the shell 4 is possible.

  As a result, the interior of the first compartment 38 and the second compartment 40 of the inner slide 6 of the container 2 according to the second embodiment of the present invention are both accessible in the open position shown in FIG.

  In use, using the inner slide 6 in the closed position, the consumer holds the outer shell 4 of the container 72 with one hand and the left and right side walls 12 and 12 of the outer shell 4 with the thumb and index finger of the other hand. 14 and the left side wall 26 and the right side wall 28 of the inner slide 6 through the notch 22 facing each other. To open the container 72, the consumer slides the inner slide 6 against the outer shell 4 from the closed position shown in FIG. 7 to the open position and extends over the front surface of the second compartment 40 of the inner slide 6. To align the compartment cover 74 with the third access opening 20 in the front wall 8 of the outer shell 4, the inner slide 6 is pulled outwardly away from the outer shell 4 through its open upper end 18.

  Optionally, in addition to or in addition to a pair of opposed notches 22 provided along the lateral free edges of the left and right side walls 12 and 14, the bottom wall 16 of the outer shell 4 An opening (not shown) is provided so that, in use, the consumer can press the bottom wall 32 of the inner slide 6 to open the container 72.

  Similar to the first embodiment of the present invention, the lateral outer cross section of the inner slide 6 of the container 72 according to the second embodiment of the present invention is substantially equal to the lateral inner cross section of its outer shell 4, and therefore The frictional force generated between the outer surface of the inner slide 6 and the inner surface of the outer shell 4 until a positive force is applied by the consumer while the container 72 is opened and closed is the sliding movement of the inner slide 6 with respect to the outer shell 4. To prevent.

  As will be described further below, the container 72 further includes retaining means for preventing sliding movement of the inner slide 6 relative to the outer shell 4 beyond the open position shown in FIG. With the container 72 in the open position shown in FIG. 7, the consumer grasps the second cover area 46 of the first compartment cover 42 that extends across the front face of the first compartment 38 of the inner slide 6 and the first compartment Rotate it backwards to access the smoking article or other consumer goods (not shown) contained within 38. A notch 48 provided along the lateral free edge of the second cover section 46 of the first section cover 42 facilitates pivoting movement of the second cover section 46 of the first section cover 42 by the consumer. To do. In use, opposing notches 34 provided along the longitudinal free edges of the left side wall 26 and the right side wall 28 of the inner slide 6 are then accommodated in the first compartment 38 of the inner slide 6. This makes it easy to take out the consumer goods (not shown) from the container 2. However, it will be appreciated that, for example, the opposed notches 34 can be omitted depending on the orientation of the consumer goods contained within the first compartment 38.

  The outer shell 4 of the container 72 of FIG. 7 can be formed from the single blank shown in FIG. 3 by the method described above. Each of the single laminated cardboard blanks that can form the first compartment 38 and the first compartment cover 42 and the second compartment 40 and the second compartment cover 74 of the inner slide 6 of the container 72 of FIG. 8 and 9.

  Corresponding reference numerals are used in FIGS. 8 and 9 for blank elements similar to or associated with the elements of the inner slide 6 of the container 72 of FIG. 7 described above. The blank was folded along the appropriate score line (shown in dashed lines in FIGS. 8 and 9) in a conventional manner and secured with adhesive (shown in the cross-hatched areas in FIGS. 8 and 9). 1) and 2), including various panels, flaps and tabs (labeled in bold in FIGS. 8 and 9) that form the outer shell 4 and inner slide 6 of the container 72 shown in FIGS.

  The blank material shown in FIG. 8 for forming the first compartment 38 and the first compartment cover 42 of the inner slide 6 of the container 72 shown in FIG. 7 has a corresponding wall of the inner slide 6 when the blank material is folded. It has a rear wall panel 24, an inner left wall panel 26a and an outer left wall panel 26b, an inner right wall panel 28a and an outer right wall panel 28b, and an inner upper wall panel 30a and an outer upper wall panel 30b. As shown in FIG. 8, the blank also includes a pair of upper closure tabs 58 connected to the upper edge of the outer left wall panel 26b and the outer right wall 8b along the score line.

  As shown in FIG. 8, the blank further includes a first compartment bottom wall panel 62a connected to the rear wall panel 24 of the blank through a connection panel 68a. During the assembly of the blank material, the connection panel 68a is folded so that it overlaps the rear wall panel 24 of the inner slide 6 and the first compartment bottom wall panel 62a over the rear wall 24 of the inner slide 6 as well as the outer left side. Separated from the lower edges of wall 26 and outer right wall 28.

  The blank also includes a first cover area panel 44 connected to the first compartment bottom wall panel 62a along the transverse score line, a first cover area panel along the hinge line (shown in bold broken lines in FIG. 8). And a pair of opposing retaining tabs 70 connected to the side edges of the first cover area panel 44 along the score line.

  To form the first compartment 38 and the first compartment cover 42 of the inner slide 6 of the container 72 according to the second embodiment of the invention shown in FIG. 7, various panels, tabs, And the flaps are folded and secured together. As shown in FIG. 10, during blank assembly, the opposing retention tabs 70 of the blank are secured to the outer surfaces of the left side wall 26 and right side wall 28 of the inner slide.

  Each of the crease lines formed between the inner left wall panel 26a and the outer left wall 26b and the inner right wall panel 28a and the outer right wall 28b and between the inner upper wall panel 30a and the outer upper wall panel 30b is a container. The clever free edge 26 is advantageously provided against the left side wall panel 26, the right side wall panel 28, and the top wall panel 30 of the inner slide 6 formed with 72. However, in order to reduce the amount of material required to form the inner slide 6 of the container 72 shown in FIG. 7 and to facilitate folding of the blank shown in FIG. 8, the outer left side wall panel 26b, It will be appreciated that one or more of the outer right wall panel 28b and the outer upper wall panel 30b may be omitted.

  If necessary, the blank material for forming the first compartment 38 and the first compartment cover 42 of the inner slide 6 of the container 72 according to the second embodiment of the present invention is along the score line as described above. It will also be appreciated that one or more rear wall reinforcement flaps connected to the inner left wall panel 26a, the inner right wall panel 28b, or the inner upper wall panel 30a of the inner slide 6 may further be included. Let's go. In such an embodiment, the rear wall reinforcing flap that is folded to overlap the rear wall 24 of the inner slide 6 in the first compartment 38 during assembly of the blank material is, for example, the first of the inner slide 6 of the container 2. This advantageously provides additional surface area on which information regarding the composition or use of consumer goods contained in the compartment 38 can be printed.

  The blank shown in FIG. 9 for forming the second compartment 40 and the second compartment cover 74 of the inner slide 6 of the container 72 shown in FIG. 7 is the upper wall 62b of the second compartment 40 when the blank is folded. An inner second compartment upper wall panel 62b ′ and an outer second compartment upper wall panel 62b ″.

  As shown in FIG. 9, the blank is divided into a second compartment bottom wall panel 32 connected to the inner second compartment top wall panel 62b ′ through the connection panel 68b, and a second compartment bottom wall panel along the transverse score line. And a second compartment cover panel 74 connected to 32.

  When the blank is folded and secured to the folded blank to form the first compartment 38 and the first compartment cover 42 of the inner slide 6, the second compartment bottom wall panel 32 is in the first compartment. Forming the bottom wall 32 of the inner slide 6 and the connection panel 68b, which overlaps with the blank connection panel 68a to form 38, the first compartment cover 42 of the inner slide 6 forms the rear wall of the second compartment 40. To do.

  The blank also includes an inner left 76a and right 78a second compartment side wall panel connected to opposing side edges of the connection panel 68b along the score line, and an outer second compartment upper wall panel 62b '' along the score line. The outer left 76b and right 78b second compartment side wall panels connected to the opposing side edges of the outer left 76b and right 78b the second left side wall 76b and the right 78b opposite side edges of the second compartment side wall panel. And a pair of lower closure tabs connected to.

  In order to form the second compartment 40 and the second compartment cover 74 of the inner slide 6 of the container 72 according to the second embodiment of the invention shown in FIG. 7, various panels, tabs, And the flaps are folded and secured together. During assembly of the blank, the outer second compartment upper wall panel 62b '' is secured to the outer surface of the inner second compartment upper wall panel 62b 'and the outer left 76b and right 78b second compartment sidewall panels are joined to the inner left 76a. And right 78a is fixed to the outer surface of the second partition side wall panel. As shown in FIG. 10, the lower closing tab 80 of the blank is also fixed to the outer surface of the second compartment bottom wall panel 32.

  As shown in FIG. 10, the outer wall of the outer second compartment of the folded blank to form the second compartment 40 and the second compartment cover 74 to form the inner slide 6 of the container 72 of FIG. The outer surface of the panel 62b '' is then secured to the outer surface of the folded first blank section first wall panel 62a to form the first section 38 and the first section cover 42 of the inner slide 6. .

  The formed inner slide 6 shown in FIG. 10 is then inserted into the formed outer shell 4 through its open upper end 18 to form a container 72 according to the second embodiment of the invention shown in FIG. .

  Forming the first compartment 38 and the first compartment cover 42 of the inner slide 6 from the first single laminated blank, and the second compartment 40 and the second compartment cover 74 from the second single laminated blank. Thus, the first and second compartments of the container 72 according to the second embodiment of the present invention are formed from different materials. As described above, one of the first and second compartments of the inner slide contains a plurality of heated smoking articles including a combustible heat source or fuel element and an aerosol generating substrate, and the first and second compartments of the inner slide. This is particularly advantageous when the other is a waste compartment intended to contain and extinguish one or more used heated articles. In such embodiments, the compartment containing a plurality of smoking articles and its compartment cover can be formed, for example, from a single laminated cardboard blank and the waste compartment is one or more refractory materials. It can be at least partially formed, coated, or lined from or using one or more refractory and thermally conductive materials, or combinations thereof. For example, the waste compartment and the waste compartment cover can be formed from a single aluminum laminated cardboard blank.

  The exact sequence in which the various panels, flaps and tabs of the unitary laminated cardboard blank shown in FIGS. 8 and 9 are folded and secured together to form the inner slide 6 of the container 72 of FIG. It will be appreciated that it can vary depending on the equipment used to produce 72. It will also be appreciated that the unitary laminated cardboard blank shown in FIGS. 8 and 9 can be manually folded to form the outer shell 4 and inner slide 6 of the container 72 shown in FIG. 7, if desired. .

  Similar to the first embodiment of the present invention described above, the upper retaining flap 52 of the outer shell 4 of the container 72 according to the second embodiment of the present invention comprises the left side wall panel 12 and the outer right side wall panel 14b of the outer shell 4. It is not fixed to the inner surface. This ensures that the opposing upper retaining flap 52 of the outer shell 4 interacts with the opposing retaining tab 70 of the inner slide 6 with the inner slide 6 inserted into the outer shell 4. In use, when the inner slide 6 of the container 72 according to the second embodiment of the present invention reaches the open position shown in FIG. Engage with the retention tab 70 and thereby advantageously prevent further sliding movement of the inner slide 6 beyond the open position relative to the outer shell 4. The interaction between the upper retaining flap 52 of the outer shell 4 and the retaining tab 70 of the inner slide 6 prevents the inner slide 6 of the container 72 from being removed from its outer shell 4.

  The present invention has been illustrated above with reference to a container comprising an inner slide formed from two separate unitary laminated blanks. However, a container according to the present invention can include an inner slide formed from a single unitary laminated blank. For example, a container according to the present invention can include an inner slide having first and second compartments formed from a single unitary laminated blank, an integral partition, and an integral first compartment cover. A single unitary blank material suitable for forming an inner slide having first and second compartments, an integral partition, and an integral first compartment cover illustrates the panel and flap of the blank shown in FIG. It can form by combining with the blank material shown in 4. The container according to the invention can also comprise an inner slide in which the hinged second cover area of the first compartment cover is omitted and both the first and second compartments of the inner slide have at least partly an open front. .

  If the second cover area of the first compartment cover of the inner slide is omitted or the inner slide of the container is formed from a single unitary laminated blank, the inner slide further beyond the open position relative to the outer shell One or more locking tabs on the inner slide that interact with one or more hinged flaps provided on the outer shell during use to prevent sliding movement It will be appreciated that other protrusions can still be provided. For example, the container according to the invention has an upper retaining flap 52 folded inwardly of the outer shell 4 during use in order to prevent further sliding movement of the inner slide 6 beyond the open position relative to the outer shell 4. It may include an inner slide formed from a single unitary blank material similar to that shown in FIG. 4 that engages the lower closure tab 56 of the inner slide 6.

  The present invention provides an outer shell between a closed position where both the interiors of the first and second compartments are inaccessible and a “fully” open position where both the interiors of the first and second compartments are accessible. As described above in connection with a container comprising an inner slide formed from two separate unitary laminated blanks that are slidable in However, the container according to the invention is one or more in which the interior of one of the first and second compartments is inaccessible and the interior of the other of the first and second compartments is accessible. An inner slide is slidable in the outer shell between a closed position and a “fully” open position through an intermediate “partially open” position.

2 Multi-compartment slide-shell container 4 Outer shell 20 Third access opening 38 First compartment 40 Second compartment

Claims (14)

An outer shell (4);
A first compartment (38) with a first access opening and a second compartment (40) with a second access opening, wherein the first (38) and second (40) compartments A closed position in which the first and second access openings are blocked by the outer shell such that the interior is inaccessible;
An inner slide (6) slidable within the outer shell (4) between an open position in which both the first (38) and second (40) compartments are accessible;
A dual compartment slide-shell container (2,72) comprising:
In the open position, the second access opening of the inner slide (6) is substantially aligned with the third access opening (20) provided in the outer shell (4), so that the inner slide (6) inside the second compartment (40), Ri accessible der through said second and third (20) access opening,
The inner slide covers a second compartment cover (74) that covers the second access opening in the closed position and is movable to a position where at least a portion of the second access opening is not covered in the open position. A container further comprising:   In the open position, at least a portion of the first access opening is the outer shell such that the interior of the first compartment (38) of the inner slide (6) is accessible through the first access opening. Container (2, 72) according to claim 1, characterized in that it projects outwardly from (4) through its open end (18).   The inner slide covers the first access opening in the closed position and does not cover at least a portion of the first access opening protruding outward from the outer shell (4) in the open position. The container (2, 72) of claim 2, further comprising a first compartment cover (42) that is movable to the top. At least the heat indicator comprising one reversible thermochromic material container according to claim 1, characterized in that provided on the second compartment cover (74) (72). At least the heat indicator comprising one reversible thermochromic material according claim 1, characterized in that provided on the outer shell overlying the second compartment cover in the closed position (74) (4) Item 5. The container (72) according to any one of Items 4 to 7 . The inner slide (6) is inaccessible in one of the first (38) and second (40) sections, and the other in the first (38) and second (40) sections. is accessible the closed position through an intermediate position and between said open position from claim 1, wherein the outer shell (4) in a slidable according to any one of claims 4 Container (2,72). In the intermediate position, the interior of the second compartment (40) is inaccessible, and the interior of said first compartment (38), according to claim 6, characterized in that is accessible Container (2,72). Described in any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the removal, further comprising a holding means (52, 70) for preventing the inner slide (6) from the outer shell (4) Container (2,72). 9. Container (2, 72) according to claim 8 , characterized in that the holding means (52, 70) prevent the movement of the inner slide (6) beyond the open position. Container (2, 2) according to any one of claims 1 to 4 , characterized in that at least one notch (22) is provided along the free edge of the outer shell (4). 72). Said first compartment (38) of the inner slide (6), any one of claims 1 to and greater than said second compartment of the inner slide (6) (40) of claim 4 The container (2, 72) of paragraph 1. The first compartment (38) of the inner slide (6) contains a plurality of consumer goods, and the second compartment (40) of the inner slide (6) is a waste compartment. The container (2, 72) according to any one of claims 1 to 4 . The first section (38) of the inner slide (6) and the second section (40) of the inner slide (6) are formed from separate folded laminated blanks. container as claimed in any one of claims 4 (72). At least one of the first (38) and second (40) compartment of the inner slide (6) from claim 1, characterized in that to accommodate a plurality of smoking articles to one of claims 4 Container as described (2, 72).

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