KR20150134420A - A method of manufacturing a packaging insert containing elongate objects - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention is directed to a method of making a packaging insert that includes elongate elements, e.g., smokies. The method includes the steps of providing a first web having grooves each shaped to receive a single elongate element, transversely to the direction of travel of the first web, providing a first web having grooves formed on the grooves of the first web, 2 < / RTI > web. In one embodiment, the elongate elements are positioned within the grooves of the first web before the second web is provided over the grooves comprising the elongate elements. In an alternative embodiment, the elongated elements are positioned in individual pockets after they are formed.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention [0001] The present invention relates to a packaging insert manufacturing method,

The present invention relates to methods of making packaging inserts comprising elongate elements, in particular, but not exclusively, packaging inserts containing smoking articles, as well as methods of making packaging inserts comprising long elements .

Numerous variations of packs for long elements such as toys are known. Methods of inserting long elements into these packs are required. For example, a plurality of smoked foods can be packaged into one pack.

According to embodiments of the present invention, there is provided a method of manufacturing a packaging insert comprising long elements, the packaging insert comprising a first web and a second web, the method comprising:

(I) providing a continuous feed of a first web having grooves each shaped to receive a long single element, transverse to the direction of travel of the first web;

(Ii) feeding long elements into the grooves of the first web;

(Iii) providing a continuous supply of a second web over elongate elements located in the grooves of the first web to cause a series of individual pockets each comprising a long single element.

Long elements include, but are not limited to, a rotating drum member that feeds long elements to the first web at a speed that matches the rate at which long elements of feed are fed into each groove of the first web To the grooves of the first web by any suitable means including,

Longer elements may be, but are not limited to, any cylindrical article. Examples of suitable long elements include, but are not limited to, smokings and electronic cigarettes. As used herein, the term "smoking" as used herein includes tobacco, tobacco derivatives, expanded tobacco, reconstituted tobacco or tobacco substitutes, Smoking products such as cigarettes, cigars, and cigarillos, whether based on heat-not-burn products or not. The smokers may be provided with a filter for the gas flow sucked by the smoker. Other suitable elongate elements include, but are not limited to, any delicate or degradable items such as halogen bulbs and glass ampoules. Glass test tubes containing one, two, three or more smokers may also be suitable.

The grooves of the first web may have any suitable shaped cross-section so that each groove has a shape that accommodates a long single element. For example, the grooves of the first web may have a V-shaped cross-section or a U-shaped cross-section. Alternatively, the grooves of the first web may have a polygonal cross-section such as a three-sided polygonal cross-section.

The first web may be corrugated. That is, the first web may have a series of parallel grooves and ridges that are transverse to the direction of travel of the first web. The grooves and ridges of the first web may have any suitable shaped cross-section so that each groove has a shape that accommodates a long single element. For example, the grooves and ridges of the first web may have a V-shaped cross-section or a U-shaped cross-section. Alternatively, the grooves and ridges of the first web may have a polygonal cross-section such as a three-sided polygonal cross-section.

The second web may not have grooves and ridges.

Alternatively, the second web may have grooves that run transversely to the direction of travel of the second web. The grooves of the second web may have any suitable shaped cross-section such that each groove has a shape that accommodates a long single element. For example, the grooves of the second web may have a V-shaped cross-section or a U-shaped cross-section. Alternatively, the grooves of the second web may have a polygonal cross-section such as a three-sided polygonal cross-section.

The second web can be crimped. That is, the second web may have a series of parallel grooves and ridges that are transverse to the direction of travel of the second web. The grooves and ridges of the second web can have any suitable shape of cross section so that each groove has a shape that accommodates a long single element. For example, the grooves and ridges of the second web may have a V-shaped cross-section or a U-shaped cross-section. Alternatively, the grooves and ridges of the second web may have a polygonal cross-section such as a three-sided polygonal cross-section.

The second web may be positioned over long elements such that the grooves of the second web face the grooves of the first web and align with them.

The grooves (and ridges) of the first and second webs may have the same cross-sectional shape.

For example, both the first web and the second web may have grooves having a three-sided polygonal cross-section wherein a continuous feed of the second web is positioned over the first web such that the grooves of the second web Facing and aligning with the grooves of the first web which cause a series of individual hexagonal shaped pockets, each containing a series of individual hexagonal shaped pockets.

The grooves (and ridges) of the first web and / or the grooves (and ridges) of the second web may be evenly spaced along the direction of travel of each web.

The first web and the second web may be made of the same material or different materials. Any suitable material may be used including, but not limited to, a thin walled card. In embodiments of the present invention in which the packaging inserts are further modified to individually seal respective pockets, the first and second webs may be impermeable to water, moisture and / lt; / RTI > may be impervious. In these circumstances, the first web and the second web may be made of a material that is impermeable to water / moisture / air. Alternatively, the first web / second web may comprise any suitable base material such as a thin wall card, board, film or foil, and may further comprise a layer or membrane that is impermeable to water, moisture and / or air do.

The first web may have a width equal to the length of the elongate elements or may have a width less than the length of the elongate elements.

The second web may have a width equal to the length of the elongate elements or may have a width less than the length of the elongate elements.

The width of the first web can be the same as the width of the second web. For example, the widths of the first and second webs can be the same and can be equal to the length of the long elements. Alternatively, the widths of the first and second webs may be the same and may be less than the length of the elongate elements.

The widths of the first web and the second web may be different. For example, the width of the first web may be less than the width of the second web. In such circumstances, the width of the first web can be equal to the length of the long elements. Alternatively, the width of the first web may be less than the length of the long elements.

The first web and the second web may be joined together. For example, the first web and the second web may be joined together. Any suitable bonding means, including, but not limited to, an adhesive may be applied.

The first web and the second web can be joined together, wherein the second web contacts areas between the grooves of the first web. For example, a first web having grooves and ridges can be coupled to a second web, wherein the second web contacts the ridges of the first web facing the second web. The first web having grooves and ridges may be coupled to a second web having ridges and grooves in which the ridges of the first web contact the ridges of the second web facing the first web.

The method may further include sealing one or both ends of the individual pockets. For example, both ends of each pocket may be sealed, where at least one of the ends is temporarily sealed, i. E., The seal is removed to allow individual access to each pocket including a single long element.

The temporary seal may include perforations arranged to allow access to each individual pocket.

In one embodiment, one end of each individual pocket is permanently sealed and the other end is temporarily sealed.

The step of sealing one or both ends of the individual pockets may include positioning a continuous strip along the (open) ends of the individual pockets and coupling the strip to the pockets forming the seal.

The strip may have a width equal to the depth of the grooves of the first web (or in embodiments formed by both the first web and the second web with the grooves facing the pockets facing each other) or the width of the first and second webs May be the same width as the combined depth of the grooves.

The step of joining successive strips to the ends of the individual pockets may be performed in any suitable manner, including, but not limited to, joining the strips to the ends of the individual pockets. For example, a continuous strip may be heat bonded to the ends of the individual pockets.

Placing this continuous strip at the ends of the individual pockets can form a temporary seal or a permanent seal. For example, the transient seal may comprise a series of perforated lines arranged transverse to the length of the strip to allow access to one individual pocket, the perforations for one or more perforated lines including long elements By providing a continuous strip having a < RTI ID = 0.0 >

The strip may be made of the same material as the first web and / or the second web, or it may be different from the first web and / or the second web. The strip may be made of any suitable material, including, but not limited to, thin wall cards, foils, opaque foils, or plastics such as transparent or translucent plastics. In some embodiments, the seal is impermeable to water, moisture and / or air.

Alternatively, the step of sealing one or both ends of the individual pockets may include folding the part of the second web to cover the ends of the pockets forming the seal. This step may be possible when the second web does not have grooves and ridges and has a width greater than the width of the first web. The second web can be folded along an axis extending in the direction of travel of the second web.

For example, the width of the first web can be less than the width of the second web such that the width of the second web extends beyond the width of the first web, providing an additional width of the second web relative to the first web. The second web can then be folded such that the additional width of the second web is positioned on one end of a series of individual pockets comprising long elements, thereby sealing one end of the individual pockets. The individual pockets can be sealed in this manner at one end or at both ends.

The seals can be of any suitable shape including, but not limited to, semicircular, triangular, and hexagonal. For example, the seal may be the same shape and size as the end of each individual pocket. Alternatively, the seal has a larger size than the end of each individual pocket. Thus, the seal will overlap the pockets providing an easy way to remove the temporary seals from the ends of the individual pockets.

The steps may form a permanent seal or a temporary seal.

In the context of the temporary seal, the additional width of the second web is arranged transversely with respect to the direction of travel of the second web and extends from the edge of each individual pocket (where the first web joins the second web) Lt; RTI ID = 0.0 > a < / RTI >

The temporary sealing portion of any type may further include a tab to facilitate removal of the seal from the end of the pockets. The tab allows the user to effectively and efficiently remove the seal and gain access to the elongate element to the inside of each pocket.

The tab may be of any suitable shape, including, but not limited to, semicircular.

In certain embodiments of the present invention, the packaging inserts prepared by the methods described above may be further processed to provide packaging inserts having a variety of different arrangements. For example, any method of the invention described herein may further comprise rolling a resulting packaging insert comprising long elements. In one embodiment, the packaging insert is rolled such that the first web is positioned on the inside side of the roll.

Alternatively, any method of the present invention may further comprise folding the packaging insert. For example, the packaging insert may be folded into a triangular configuration in which the first web is positioned on the inside side of the triangular configuration or the first web is positioned on the outside side of the triangular configuration. Alternatively, any method of the present invention may be used to fold a package insert such that the first section of individual pockets overlay a second section of individual pockets providing a step of packaging an insert having two or more layers of individual pockets Step < / RTI > Preferably, the step of overlaying the different sections of the individual pockets with the sections of the individual pockets further provides a series of individual pockets positioned between each of them to include the long single element. In such an embodiment, the packaging insert may be further folded to overlay the first and second regions, which further provide a series of individual pockets, where the third region of individual pockets may each contain a single long element.

According to embodiments of the present invention, there is provided a method of making a packaging insert comprising long elements, the packaging insert comprising a first web and a second web, the method comprising:

I) providing a continuous supply of a first web having grooves each shaped to fit in a long single element, transversely to the direction of travel of the first web;

Ii) providing a continuous feed of a second web;

Iii) arranging the first and second webs to provide a packaging insert having a series of individual pockets molded to fit into the elongated element; And

Iv) inserting a single elongate element into each individual pocket.

Longer elements may be, but are not limited to, any cylindrical article. Examples of suitable long elements include, but are not limited to, smokings and electronic cigarettes. As used herein, the term "smoking" as used herein refers to cigarettes, tobacco derivatives, expanded tobacco, recycled tobacco or tobacco substitutes and also cigarettes, whether based on non- And smoking products such as cigarillos. The smokers may be provided with a filter for the gas flow sucked by the smoker. Other suitable elongate elements include, but are not limited to, any delicate or degradable items such as halogen bulbs and glass ampoules. Glass test tubes containing one, two, three or more smokers may also be suitable.

Long elements include, but are not limited to, providing a rotating drum roller having a supply of elongated elements located about its circumference, positioning the drum roller in a lateral direction alongside the packaging insert with a series of individual pockets , And moving the elongate element laterally into each pocket, wherein the drum roller is rotated at a speed at which the individual pockets are fed to the feeding device of the long elements lt; RTI ID = 0.0 > rate. < / RTI >

The grooves of the first web may have any suitable shaped cross-section so that each groove has a shape that accommodates a long single element. For example, the grooves of the first web may have a V-shaped cross-section or a U-shaped cross-section.

Alternatively, the grooves of the first web may have a polygonal cross-section such as a three-sided polygonal cross-section.

The first web may be crimped. That is, the first web may have a series of ridges and parallel grooves running transversely to the direction of travel of the first web. The grooves and ridges of the first web may have any suitable shaped cross-section so that each groove has a shape that accommodates a long single element. For example, the grooves and ridges of the first web may have a V-shaped cross-section or a U-shaped cross-section. Alternatively, the grooves and ridges of the first web may have a polygonal cross-section such as a three-sided polygonal cross-section.

The second web may not have grooves and ridges.

Alternatively, the second web may have grooves that run transversely to the direction of travel of the second web. The grooves of the second web may have any suitable shaped cross-section such that each groove has a shape that accommodates a long single element. For example, the grooves of the second web may have a V-shaped cross-section or a U-shaped cross-section. Alternatively, the grooves of the second web may have a polygonal cross-section such as a three-sided polygonal cross-section.

The second web can be crimped. That is, the second web may have a series of ridges and parallel grooves running transversely to the direction of travel of the second web. The grooves and ridges of the second web can have any suitable shape of cross section so that each groove has a shape that accommodates a long single element. For example, the grooves and ridges of the second web may have a V-shaped cross-section or a U-shaped cross-section. Alternatively, the grooves and ridges of the second web may have a polygonal cross-section such as a three-sided polygonal cross-section.

The second web can be aligned with respect to the first web such that the grooves of the second web align with the grooves of the first web.

The grooves (and ridges) of the first and second webs may have the same cross-sectional shape.

For example, both the first web and the second web may have grooves having a three-sided polygonal cross-section wherein the second web is coupled to the first web such that the grooves of the second web each comprise a series of long single elements Lt; RTI ID = 0.0 > of the first < / RTI >

The grooves (and ridges) of the first web and / or the grooves (and ridges) of the second web may be evenly spaced along the direction of travel of each web.

The first and second webs may be made of the same material or different materials. Any suitable material may be used including, but not limited to, a thin-walled card. In embodiments of the present invention in which the packaging inserts are further modified to individually seal respective pockets, the first and second webs may be impermeable to water, moisture and / or air. In these circumstances, the first web and the second web may be made of a material that is impermeable to water / moisture / air. Alternatively, the first web / second web may comprise any suitable base material such as a thin wall card, board, film or foil, and may further comprise a layer or membrane that is impermeable to water, moisture and / or air do.

The first web may have a width equal to the length of the elongate elements or may have a width less than the length of the elongate elements.

The second web may have a width equal to the length of the elongate elements or may have a width less than the length of the elongate elements.

The width of the first web can be the same as the width of the second web. For example, the widths of the first and second webs can be the same and can be equal to the length of the long elements. Alternatively, the widths of the first and second webs may be the same and may be less than the length of the elongate elements.

The widths of the first web and the second web may be different. For example, the width of the first web may be less than the width of the second web. In such circumstances, the width of the first web can be equal to the length of the long elements. Alternatively, the width of the first web may be less than the length of the long elements.

The first web and the second web may be joined together. For example, the first web and the second web may be joined together. Any suitable bonding means, including, but not limited to, an adhesive may be applied.

The first web and the second web can be joined together, wherein the second web contacts areas between the grooves of the first web. For example, a first web having grooves and ridges can be coupled to a second web, wherein the second web contacts the ridges of the first web facing the second web. The first web having grooves and ridges may be coupled to a second web having ridges and grooves in which the ridges of the first web contact the ridges of the second web facing the first web.

The method may further include sealing one or both ends of the individual pockets. For example, both ends of each pocket may be sealed, where at least one of the ends is temporarily sealed, i. E., The seal is removed to allow individual access to each pocket including a single long element.

The temporary seal may include perforations arranged to allow access to each individual pocket.

In one embodiment, one end of each individual pocket is permanently sealed and the other end is temporarily sealed.

The step of sealing one or both ends of the individual pockets may include positioning a continuous strip along the (open) ends of the individual pockets and coupling the strip to the pockets forming the seal.

The strip may have a width equal to the depth of the grooves of the first web (or in embodiments formed by both the first web and the second web with the grooves facing the pockets facing each other) or the width of the first and second webs May be the same width as the combined depth of the grooves.

The step of joining successive strips to the ends of the individual pockets may be performed in any suitable manner, including, but not limited to, joining the strips to the ends of the individual pockets. For example, a continuous strip may be heat bonded to the ends of the individual pockets.

Placing this continuous strip at the ends of the individual pockets can form a temporary seal or a permanent seal. For example, the temporary seal may be arranged transversely with respect to the length of the strip to allow access to one individual pocket, where perforation of one or more of the perforated lines includes elongate elements May be formed by providing a continuous strip having a series of perforated lines.

The strip may be made of the same material as the first web and / or the second web, or it may be different from the first web and / or the second web. The strip may be made of any suitable material, including, but not limited to, thin wall cards, foils, opaque foils, or plastics such as transparent or translucent plastics. In some embodiments, the seal is impermeable to water, moisture and / or air.

Alternatively, the step of sealing one end or both ends of the individual pockets may include folding the part of the second web to cover the ends of the pockets forming the seal. This step may be possible when the second web does not have grooves and ridges and has a width greater than the width of the first web. The second web can be folded along an axis extending in the direction of travel of the second web.

For example, the width of the first web can be less than the width of the second web such that the width of the second web extends beyond the width of the first web, providing an additional width of the second web relative to the first web. The second web can then be folded such that the additional width of the second web is positioned on one end of a series of individual pockets comprising long elements, thereby sealing one end of the individual pockets. The individual pockets can be sealed in this manner at one end or at both ends.

The seals can be any suitable shape including, but not limited to, semicircular, triangular, and hexagonal. For example, the seal may be the same shape and size as the end of each individual pocket. Alternatively, the seal has a larger size than the end of each individual pocket. Thus, the seal will overlap the pockets providing an easy way to remove the temporary seals from the ends of the individual pockets.

The steps may form a permanent seal or a temporary seal.

In the context of the temporary seal, the additional width of the second web is arranged transversely with respect to the direction of travel of the second web and extends from the edge of each individual pocket (where the first web engages the second web) And may further comprise a series of perforations extending to the edge of the web.

The temporary seal of any type may further comprise a tab to facilitate removal of the seal from the end of the pockets. The tab allows the user to effectively and efficiently remove the seal and gain access to the elongate element to the inside of each pocket.

The tab may be of any suitable shape, including, but not limited to, semicircular.

According to embodiments of the present invention, there is provided a packaging insert prepared by a method according to any one of the embodiments described herein.

According to embodiments of the present invention, a packet is provided that includes a packaging insert of the present invention therein.

Embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings.
Figure 1 shows an example of a device suitable for carrying out this method of manufacturing the method and packaging insert of the present invention.
Figure 2 shows an example of a method by which a method of making a packaging insert comprising two parallel lines of long elements can be carried out.
Figure 3 shows an example of a packaging insert obtainable by the method of the present invention.
Figures 4A and 4B illustrate an example of a packaging insert obtainable by the method of the present invention and how such a packaging insert may be rolled.
Figure 5 illustrates an example of how individual pockets of a packaging insert may be sealed in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 6 illustrates an alternative embodiment of a method in which individual pockets of the packaging insert can be sealed in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
Figures 7A and 7B illustrate an alternative method of how individual pockets of a packaging insert may be sealed in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 8 shows an example of a packaging insert in a rolled configuration having individual pockets to be sealed.
Figures 9A and 9B show examples of packaging inserts in a triangular configuration with individually sealed pockets.
10A-10D illustrate examples of cross-sections of drum rollers and first web that may be used equally, which may be applied in some embodiments of the present invention.
Figures 11A, 11B, 12A, and 12B illustrate examples of different packaging inserts of configurations that are designed to be folded.
Figure 13 shows an example of a manufacturing apparatus and method of the present invention suitable for carrying out this method in which a first web with grooves is prepared using a vacuum mold.
Figures 14 and 15 illustrate examples of manufacturing apparatus and methods of the present invention that perform these methods in which long elements are inserted into individual pockets after the pockets are formed.

It is desirable to package long elements in a manner that provides protection from bending and / or crushing during transport and / or storage of the elements. It is also desirable to package long elements, especially smoking, in a manner that improves the experience of the buyer during both opening and withdrawing of the element from its container and keeping the element longer in its desired state in preparation for use. In this regard, a packaging insert that holds one or more elongate elements and improves the protection provided by the package as a whole can be applied. Thereafter, such a packaging insert may be included in a packet, for example, a cigarette packet.

However, the methods of fabricating a packaging insert that includes long elements can be complex, slow, and inefficient. In contrast, the methods of the present invention provide continuous processes for fabricating packaging inserts that include efficient and highly adaptable long elements.

In the following examples, the methods of the present invention are described in the context of packaging inserts containing smoking articles, but the methods of the present invention should not be construed as being limited to this. The methods of the present invention are applicable to any suitable long element. The term "smoking" refers to any substance that is based on tobacco, tobacco derivatives, expanded tobacco, reconstituted tobacco or tobacco substitutes and also heat-not-burn products Or smoking products such as cigarettes, cigars, and cigarillos.

Figure 1 shows an example of a method according to an embodiment of the invention. A continuous feed of web 7 is provided and fed to a pair of corrugated rollers 2 which are arranged in parallel with the webs 7 transversely to the direction of travel of the first web 1, Into a continuous feed of the first web (1) having ridges. The shapes of the grooves and ridges are not limited. They may have a V-shaped cross section or a U-shaped cross section, or may have a semi-hexagonal (i.e., half a hexagon) cross section. Fig. 1 shows a first web 1 with grooves and ridges which are shaped to accommodate a uniform odorous odor. A continuous supply of smokable objects (3) is provided, and smokies (3) are supplied to each of the grooves on one side of the first web (1). A continuous supply of a second web 4 is provided and a second web 4 is provided in the grooves of the first web 1 providing a series of individual pockets 5 each containing a single odor 3 And is supplied on the smokers 3 to be positioned.

In an alternative, the method is practiced except that smoking is fed into the grooves of the first web from above, thus allowing gravity to assist in the placement of the tofu into the grooves. The second web is then fed onto the smokes located in the grooves of the first web providing a series of individual pockets, each containing a single odor.

The smoker can be intentionally designed and sized internally to the shape formed by the first web 1 having grooves and ridges so that bending and / or bending during transport and / / RTI > and / or protection from crushing. The characteristics of the individual pockets 5 and the manner in which they are made provide stiffness (and thus protection) in both the axial and radial directions which are taken into account with respect to the longitudinal centerline axis of the smokable matter 3.

A series of individual pockets containing smoking items can be cut to size and packaged in a suitable manner for subsequent storage and / or transport. For example, they may be divided into a selected number of individual pockets and / or folded.

The smokers 3 can be fed into the grooves of the first web 1 in a number of ways. For example, as shown in Fig. 1, the smokers 3 can be fed to the grooves of the first web 1 by means of a conveyor belt 6. The conveyor belt 6 is fed to the first web 1 at a rate such that the respective grooves of the first web 1 are fed to the feeding of the smokers 3.

An alternative way of feeding smoking to the grooves of the first web is illustrated in Fig. 2, the smokes 23 are placed in the first web 21 at a speed such that each groove of the first web 21 is supplied with the supply of the smokies 23, And is supplied into the grooves by using the drum member 212 to be supplied. The smokers 23 can be held in position on the drum member 212 using suction.

Although not limited to the method illustrated in Fig. 2 and not limited to the method exemplified in Fig. 2, the supply of smokable foods 23 may be supplied directly from a device for making smokable foods, such as a smokemaker, Lt; RTI ID = 0.0 > and / or < / RTI >

More specifically, FIG. 2 illustrates a method according to an embodiment of the invention useful for fabricating a packaging insert comprising two parallel sets of individual pockets 25. There is provided a continuous supply of a first web 21 having grooves and ridges that run transversely with respect to the direction of travel of the first web 21. The first web 21 is produced by feeding the web 213 into a pair of pleated rollers 22. The pleated rollers 22 each have three sections along their axial length. The first section 26 and the third section 27 located at each end of the corrugated rollers 22 have corrugated surfaces. The second section 28 located between the first section 26 and the third section 27 is not corrugated. The resulting first web 21 with grooves and ridges thus also has three regions arranged transverse to the direction of travel of the first web 21. The regions 29 and the regions 211 located at the respective transverse edges of the first web 21 have grooves and ridges (formed by corrugated sections 26 and 27, respectively). The area 211 of the first web positioned transversely between the section 29 and the section 210 does not have grooves and ridges (passing between the non-corrugated second sections 28).

The supply of the smoking articles 23 is continuously supplied into the grooves of the first web 21. As described above, the toast 23 is fed to the first web 21 at a speed that matches the speed at which each groove of the first web 21 is fed into the feeding of the toast 23, (Not shown). The smokers 23 can be held in position on the drum member 212 using a rotation.

2, the width of each section of the first web 21 with grooves and ridges (the transverse dimension with respect to the direction of travel of the first web 21) is the same as that of the smokies 23 Lt; / RTI >

A continuous feed of a second web 24 is provided and fed over the toast 23 which is located in the grooves on one side of the first web 21.

In Figure 2, the second web 24 does not have grooves and ridges. As a result, the method illustrated in FIG. 2 provides two sets of parallel individual pockets 25 each having a single odor 23. The two sets of individual pockets 25 are parallel and correspond to the grooves and ridges provided by the sections 29 and 210 of the first web 21 and have a first web < RTI ID = 0.0 > By the area corresponding to the section 211 of the second lens group.

A packaging insert comprising a first web and a second web with this type of arrangement can then be inserted along the border of section 29 and section 211 and / or across the boundary of section 210 and section 211, . However, it will be appreciated that the present invention, as defined in the claims, can process a series of individual pockets of different configurations by simple modification of the methods described herein.

Figure 3 shows an example of a packaging insert obtainable by the method of the present invention. The packaging insert 30 includes a first web having grooves and ridges of uniform shape and size and a second web 32 having no grooves and ridges. Each groove is shaped to receive a single smoking cavity 33. The first web 31, the second web 32 and the smokies 33 are each arranged to provide a series of parallel individual pockets 34 having a single odorous cake 33. The first web 31 shown in Fig. 3 has a width that is less than the length of the smoking article 33. Fig. The second web 32 shown in Fig. 3 has essentially the same width as the lengths of the smokers 33. The packaging insert shown in Fig. 3 thus provides improved access to smokies 33 as well as support and protection against smokers 33 and improvements in smokies 33 when in the packaging insert 30. [ Provides an example of

Figures 4a and 4b show a first web 31 and a second web 32 having grooves and ridges arranged to provide a series of individual pockets 34 each having a single odor 33, Showing how a packaging insert 30 similar to that shown can be rolled. In particular, the packaging insert can be rolled such that the first web 31 having a width less than the width of the second web 32 is positioned inside the roll. 4B shows a packaging insert 30 in the rolled form. The packaging insert 30 provides improved support and protection for the smokers 33.

As previously described, the method may further comprise sealing one or both ends of the individual pockets. For example, the pockets can be sealed individually at both ends. The complete sealing of each pocket in this manner provides a way for smokies to maintain their smoking in their optimized environment most suitable for smokers. Particularly, the state of smoking can be maintained immediately after production. Environmental factors such as humidity and humidity can negatively affect smoking over time. The step of sealing the individual pockets with the smokers helps avoid the negative effects that these environmental factors may cause. Preserving individual toys in their own individual pockets / environment until they are smoked enables them to be in their optimized and intended state when they are smoked. The smokers left during the period of time in the unsealed packet that the smokers are subjected to varying humidity and other environmental conditions can lead to a flavor that is too strong when smoked and thus a deteriorated smoking experience.

Seals for use in the present invention may be made of any suitable material, including, but not limited to, opaque foils and transparent or translucent plastics. The seals may also be made of the same material as the first and / or second webs.

For example, FIG. 5 illustrates one possible sealing method of individual pockets 54 in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. There is provided a series of individual pockets 54 formed by a first web 51 and a second web 52 (shown in Figure 5 with no grooves and ridges) with grooves and ridges, And has a single smoking course (53). A series of individual pockets 54 may be manufactured according to any suitable embodiment of the present invention, such as the embodiment illustrated in FIG. This series of individual pockets 54 is fed with two successive strips 55 placed on top of each end of the individual pockets 54. The resulting arrangement is then fed to a means 58 of hot sealing, which is a continuous strip 56 for the ends of the individual pockets 54. However, it will be appreciated that other means of joining successive strips to the ends of the pockets are possible.

Any seal attached to the packaging insert can have perforations so that each individual pocket having a snack can be independently approached. 5, each strip has equally spaced perforations 56 arranged transverse to the length of the strip 55 such that the perforations of the pair of adjacent perforations 56 form a single odorifer 53, Lt; RTI ID = 0.0 > 54 < / RTI > Strip 55 is fed to each end of a series of individual pockets 54 such that a pair of adjacent perforations 56 are aligned with the beginning and end of one pocket 54 and the next pocket. As a result, perforation of the pair of adjacent perforations 56 allows access to one individual pocket 54 with a single snack 53.

Figure 5 illustrates one embodiment of the method of the present invention in which a strip 55 is fed to each end of individual pockets 54. However, alternatively, the strip 55 may be fed to only one end of the individual pockets. Likewise, in one embodiment individual pockets may be permanently sealed at one end and temporarily sealed at the other end using the sealing method illustrated in FIG.

In general, however, the strips may be joined to the ends of a series of individual pockets in any suitable manner. For example, FIG. 6 illustrates a reel having a continuous strip 61 that is fed and positioned at one end of a series of individual pockets 60 each having a single draw (not shown). The strip of sealing material 61 may be joined to the ends of the individual pockets using any suitable means, such as an adhesive.

The strip of the sealing material 61 shown in Fig. 6 also has equally spaced perforations 62 arranged transversely along the length of the strip 61. Fig. Strip 61 is fed to one end of individual pockets 60 such that a pair of adjacent perforations 62 are aligned with the beginning and end of one pocket and the next pocket. As a result, perforation of the pair of adjacent perforations 62 allows access to one individual pocket 60 with a single smoking cigarette (not shown).

According to some embodiments of the present invention, individual pockets having a single smoking can be sealed at least at one end and possibly at both ends. These seals can be permanent and / or temporary. As described above, the temporary seals may further include tabs. The tab-bearing seal provides improved access to each smoking article located in each individual pocket. For example, the strip 61 shown in FIG. 6 has a tab 63 positioned between each pair of perforations 62. The tabs 63 provide an effective way of pulling the seals 61 from the ends of each individual pocket 60, thus piercing adjacent perforations 62 and allowing access to smoking.

Alternatively, the seal may be incorporated into the packaging insert as illustrated in Figs. 7A and 7B. 7A and 7B show a packaging insert 71 in which each pocket is made of a series of parallel individual pockets 72 having a single odor 73. Fig. The packaging insert is made of two webs. The first web 75 has grooves and ridges with a V-shaped cross-section and the second web 74 is flat.

The second web 74 is wider than the first web 75 so that a portion of the second web 74 extends beyond the respective pockets 72 and beyond the smokers 73 in the respective pockets 72. [ do. A portion of the second web 73 extending beyond each pocket 72 is positioned along an axis 76 (shown in FIG. 7A) that spans the length of the second web 74 and along the length of the individual pockets 72 Fold along the ends. The extension of the second web 74 provides a seal on the ends of the individual pockets 72 when folded (as shown by the arrows in Figs. 7A and 7B). Each individual pocket can then be opened as shown in FIG. 7B by pulling the seal against the end of the individual pocket 72 and allowing access to the smoking 73 contained therein.

Figures 8, 9A and 9B illustrate other ways in which the seals are added to the packaging insert. 8 shows a packaging insert 80 including a first web 81 and a second web 82 with grooves and ridges providing a series of individual pockets 84 and each pocket 84 ) Has a single smoking course (83). Although not essential, the packaging insert 80 of FIG. 8 is shown in a rolled configuration. Each individual pocket 84 also has a seal 85 attached to one end, which allows access to each smoking 83 in each pocket 84. The seal 85 of FIG. 8 also includes a tab 86 to facilitate removal of the seal 85 from the end of the pocket 84.

9A and 9B show packaging inserts 90 obtainable by the method of the present invention. The packaging inserts 90 include a first web 91 and a second web 92 having grooves and ridges arranged to provide a series of individual pockets 94, ). The second web 92 does not have grooves or ridges in both cases. The grooves and ridges of the first web 91 in Figure 9a have a V-shaped cross-section, whereas in Figure 9b they have a U-shaped cross-section. The individual pockets 94 each have a seal 95 that covers one end of the pockets 94. The shape of the seal 95 in both cases corresponds to the shape of the cross-section of the individual pockets 94. In this view, the seals 95 are temporary and can be removed to allow access to the smokers 93 contained therein. 9A and 9B further include a tab 96 to facilitate removal of the seals 95 from the ends of the pockets 94. In addition,

Figures 9A and 9B also illustrate how the packaging inserts obtained by the present invention can be modified with different configurations. For example, the packaging inserts 90 of FIGS. 9A and 9B both fold into triangular configurations. 9A, the packaging insert 90 is folded such that the individual pockets 94 are located inside the triangular configuration, whereas the packing insert 90 in FIG. 9B shows that the individual pockets 94 are located outside the triangular configuration Folded to the position.

As exemplified above, the methods of the present invention may be adapted to provide packaging inserts of various configurations to provide improved support and protection. Further modifications of these packaging inserts may provide an array of different configurations, and references herein to only some of the arrangements made possible by the present invention should not be regarded as a limitation of the present invention.

Thus, the methods of the present invention can be adapted to provide packaging inserts that optimize their ability to be additionally modified, e.g., folded or rolled. The packaging inserts obtainable by the methods of the present invention can be configured in a number of different ways to provide improved support and protection, as well as an improved customer experience.

In this regard, the methods of the present invention are separated by separate sections without individual pockets, and each pocket has its length relative to the direction of travel of the web materials, such as separate sections with individual pockets having a single odor, The packaging inserts can be provided with different sections arranged along the length of the package inserts. Such arrangements enable the packaging inserts to fold along the axis formed by the boundaries of separate sections, usually with individual pockets, and without a separate section.

For example, FIG. 10A shows a drum member 100 that can be used to feed smoking articles 103 into the grooves 104 of the first web 101, as shown in FIG. 10B. Figure 10B shows a first web 101 having discrete regions 102 without grooves and ridges. The distinct regions 102 are arranged along the traveling direction of the first web 101. The drum member 100 also has corresponding distinct areas 104 that do not provide the feeding of the litters 103. The smokers 103 feed the smokers 103 to the first web 101 at a speed that matches the speed at which each groove 107 of the first web 101 is fed into the supply of the smokies 103 And is supplied into the grooves 107 using the drum member 100 which is made of a metal. The separate areas 104 located in the drum roll 100 ensure that the feeding of the smokies 103 does not continue when there are no grooves 107 in the first web 101 to accommodate the smokes.

10C and 10D illustrate arrangements similar to FIGS. 10A and 10B, but the roller 105 of FIG. 10C includes two continuous feeds of smokers 103. FIG. The supply of each of the smokers of the roller 105 is the same as that of the roller 100 shown in Fig. 10A. Thus, the rollers 105 include two supplies of toddlers 103 separated by an area 106 that does not provide a supply of smokables. The roller 105 can be used in the method shown in Fig.

Figs. 11A and 11B illustrate how the packaging insert 110 obtainable in the method as illustrated in Figs. 10A and 10B can be further improved. The packaging insert 110 includes a first web 111 having grooves and ridges and a second web 112 without grooves and ridges. The two webs 111 and 112 are arranged to provide a series of individual pockets 115. A single smoking 113 is placed in each pocket 115. Similar to that shown in FIG. 3, the packaging insert 110 shown in FIG. 11A includes two areas 117 having pockets 115 on both sides of a single smoking area and area 116, Having one or more separate regions 116 that do not have a series of individual pockets to provide a plurality of individual pockets. 11A shows how additional toast 114 can be placed in the grooves provided on the outer side of the first web 111. Fig. The packaging insert may then be folded as shown in Figures 11a and 11b so that the grooves and ridges of the first web 111 align with the grooves and ridges of the second web 112. [ The package insertion portion 110 is shown in Fig. 11B in a folded state. The packaging insert 110 provides support and protection for all smokers 113 and 114 contained therein.

12A and 12B illustrate a packaging insert 120 similar to that shown in FIGS. 11A and 11B. 12A and 12B, however, the packaging insert 120 includes three separate areas 127, 128, 129 having two separate areas 126, 1210 that do not have individual pockets 125 and individual pockets. I have. Additional smokers may be placed in the grooves provided on the outer surface of sections 128 and 129. [ The packaging insert 120 can then be folded as shown in Figures 12A and 12B (see arrows). For example, the packaging inserter 120 may include a border of sections 127 and 126, a border of sections 126 and 128, a border of sections 128 and 1210, and a border of sections 1210 and 129 So that the grooves provided by the outer surface of the section 127 are positioned over the additional toast 1241 located in the grooves provided on the outer surface of the section 128 causing a series of individual pockets Each pocket including a single smoking article 1241 and each pocket comprising an outer surface of section 127 that has no grooves and ridges has a section 129 that results in an additional set of individual pockets, Which is located on the outer surface of the housing 1240, each pocket including a single smoking 1242.

A cross-sectional view of the folded-on packaging insert 120 is shown in FIG. 12B. The packaging insert 120 provides support and protection for all smokers 123, 1241, 1242 contained within the packaging insert.

Figure 13 shows a continuous supply of first web 131 being provided to a means (not shown) for molding first web 131 into a groove that is shaped to receive a single stream 133, Fig. 2 shows an embodiment of the invention. For example, the first web 131 may be formed using vacuum forming. A continuous supply of smokies 133 is provided, and smokies 133 are placed in the grooves. The continuous feed of the second web 132 includes a toast 133 located in the grooves 134 of the first web that cause a series of parallel individual pockets 135 each containing a single odor 133, Lt; / RTI > It will be appreciated that any suitable material may be used, but the second web 132 shown in Fig. 13 is made of a transparent material. It will be appreciated that the first web 131 can be made of any suitable material, but the first web 131 shown in Fig. 13 is also optionally made of a transparent material.

Although not explicitly shown in FIG. 13, it is also possible to use a wider first web 131 than the second web 132 (transversely to the direction of travel of the first web 131). Thus, the first web 131 will extend beyond the width of the second web 132 providing additional width of the first web 131. The additional width of the first web 131 will then be positioned over the ends of the individual pockets 134 creating the seal. In practice, this method of sealing the ends of the pockets may be performed at one or both ends of the individual pockets.

Thus, the method illustrated in Figure 13 can be used to prepare individually sealed toilets. The step of sealing the smokes individually improves the article shelf life of the articles, for example, maintaining the quality of the product to taste and improving the buyer ' s experience.

Any individual sealed long element / smoking can be further assisted from being stored in the inner atmosphere. Thus, the methods of the present invention may further comprise adding an inert gas to the individual pockets prior to sealing the pockets. For example, nitrogen gas may be added to the pockets. In some circumstances, the step of adding an inert gas under both pressures may be appropriate. The step of adding an inert gas may be performed before, during, and / or after feeding the long elements / toheds grooves / pockets.

14 shows an example of a method according to an embodiment of the present invention. A continuous supply of web 148 is provided and supplied to a pair of corrugated rollers 146 which provide a web 148 with a first web 141 having grooves and ridges extending transversely to the direction of travel of first web 141, To the continuous feed of web 141. [ The shapes of the grooves and ridges are not limited. They may have a V-shaped cross-section, a U-shaped cross-section, or a semi-hexagonal cross-section (i.e., a semi-hexagonal). Figure 14 shows a first web 141 having grooves and ridges that are shaped to accommodate even and single wastes. The second web 142 is provided and supplied to a first web 141 that provides a packaging insert 140 having a series of individual pockets 145 and each pocket 145 is adapted to receive a single stream of cigarettes . The smokers 143 are then inserted into the pockets 145. The rotating drum 147 is provided to have a feeding device for the smokers 143 located near its periphery and is positioned laterally along the packaging insert to have a series of individual pockets. A single smoking 143 is moved laterally into each pocket 145 (see arrow). The drum roller 147 is rotated to supply the smokable items 143 to the pockets 143 at a speed that matches the speed at which the individual pockets 145 of the packaging inserts 140 are supplied to the feeding devices of the smokers 143. [ do.

Fig. 15 shows how the method illustrated in Fig. 14 can be improved to include a cigarette maker 150 in an apparatus that provides a feed of cigarettes 151 directly.

In order to address various issues and to develop this field, the entirety of this disclosure is directed to various embodiments that can be implemented and provided for superior methods for manufacturing packaging inserts, including long- As an example. The advantages and features of the present disclosure are merely representative examples of embodiments, and are not exhaustive / exclusive or exclusive. These are presented only to assist understanding and to teach the claimed features. Advantages, embodiments, examples, functions, features, configurations, and / or other aspects of the disclosure, as defined by the appended claims, It is to be understood that they are not to be considered limitations and that other embodiments may be used and that modifications may be made without departing from the scope and / or spirit of the present disclosure.

Various embodiments may suitably comprise, constitute, or essentially consist of various combinations of the disclosed elements, components, features, parts, steps, means, and the like. In addition, the disclosure includes other inventions not now claimed, but this may be claimed in the future.

Claims (43)

A method of making a packaging insert comprising long elements,
(I) providing a continuous feed of a first web having grooves each shaped to receive a long single element, transverse to the direction of travel of the first web;
(Ii) feeding long elements into the grooves of the first web;
(Iii) providing a continuous feed of a second web over elongate elements located in the grooves of the first web causing a series of individual pockets each comprising a long single element,
The packaging insert includes a first web and a second web,

0.0 > of: < / RTI >
The method according to claim 1,
The grooves of the first web have a U-shaped cross-section, a V-shaped cross-section, or a polygonal cross-
0.0 > of: < / RTI >
3. The method according to claim 1 or 2,
The second web does not have grooves and ridges,
0.0 > of: < / RTI >
3. The method according to claim 1 or 2,
The second web having grooves extending transversely to the direction of travel of the second web,
0.0 > of: < / RTI >
5. The method of claim 4,
The grooves of the first and second webs have the same shaped cross section and the second web is positioned on the long elements so that the grooves of the second web face the grooves of the first web and are aligned with the grooves of the first web.
0.0 > of: < / RTI >
6. The method of claim 5,
Wherein the grooves of the first and second webs have a three-sided polygonal cross-section that results in a series of parallel, individual hexagonal shaped pockets each comprising a single elongate element,
0.0 > of: < / RTI >
7. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 6,
The width of the first web being equal to the width of the second web,
0.0 > of: < / RTI >
7. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 6,
Wherein the width of the first web is smaller than the width of the second web,
0.0 > of: < / RTI >
9. The method of claim 8,
The width of the second web is equal to the length of the long element,
0.0 > of: < / RTI >
10. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 9,
The second web is bonded to the first web,
0.0 > of: < / RTI >
11. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 10,
Further comprising the step of sealing at least one end of each individual pocket,
0.0 > of: < / RTI >
12. The method of claim 11,
Each end of each individual pocket being sealed,
0.0 > of: < / RTI >
13. The method of claim 12,
Permanently sealing one end of each individual pocket and temporarily sealing the other end.
0.0 > of: < / RTI >
14. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 13,
The steps of sealing may include providing a continuous strip of sealing material, positioning a strip of sealing material along one end of a series of parallel individual pockets, and sealing the strip of sealing material to the ends of the individual pockets ≪ / RTI >
0.0 > of: < / RTI >
15. The method of claim 14,
The strip of sealing material has a plurality of perforated lines arranged transversely with respect to the length of the strip such that one or more perforated lines are provided to the sealing material Lt; RTI ID = 0.0 > pockets < / RTI >
0.0 > of: < / RTI >
16. The method of claim 15,
Wherein the strip of sealing material has a tab located between each pair of perforated lines,
0.0 > of: < / RTI >
14. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 13,
The width of the first web relative to the direction of travel of the first web is less than the width of the second web relative to the direction of the second web such that the width of the second web extends beyond the width of the first web, Thereby providing an additional width of the second web relative to the first web thereby folding the additional width of the second web such that the second web is positioned over one end of a series of individual pockets comprising long elements, To provide a seal on one end of the individual pockets,
0.0 > of: < / RTI >
18. The method of claim 17,
Wherein the additional width of the second web further comprises a series of perforations arranged transverse to the direction of travel of the second web and extending from the edge of each individual pocket to the edge of the second web.
0.0 > of: < / RTI >
The method according to claim 17 or 18,
The seal includes a tab,
0.0 > of: < / RTI >
20. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 19,
Further comprising providing a rotating drum member for feeding long elements to the first web at a speed corresponding to a speed at which each groove of the first web is fed to the feed portion of the long elements.
0.0 > of: < / RTI >
A method of making a packaging insert comprising long elements,
The packaging insert includes a first web and a second web,
(I) providing a continuous feed of a first web having grooves running transversely to the direction of travel of the first web;
(Ii) providing a continuous feed of a second web;
(Iii) arranging the first and second webs to provide a packaging insert having a series of individual pockets molded to fit in a long element;
(Iv) inserting a single elongate element into each individual pocket.
0.0 > of: < / RTI >
22. The method of claim 21,
The grooves of the first web have a U-shaped cross-section, a V-shaped cross-section, or a polygonal shaped cross-
0.0 > of: < / RTI >
23. The method of claim 21 or 22,
The second web does not have grooves and ridges,
0.0 > of: < / RTI >
23. The method of claim 21 or 22,
The second web having grooves extending transversely to the direction of travel of the second web,
0.0 > of: < / RTI >
25. The method of claim 24,
The grooves of the first and second webs have the same shaped cross section and the second webs are arranged with respect to the first web so that the grooves of the second web face the grooves of the first web and are aligned with the grooves of the first web.
0.0 > of: < / RTI >
26. The method of claim 25,
The grooves of the first and second webs having a three-sided polygonal cross-section resulting in a series of parallel, individual hexagonal shaped pockets each comprising a single elongate element,
0.0 > of: < / RTI >
27. The method according to any one of claims 21 to 26,
The width of the first web is equal to the width of the second web,
0.0 > of: < / RTI >
27. The method according to any one of claims 21 to 26,
The width of the first web is smaller than the width of the second web,
0.0 > of: < / RTI >
29. The method of claim 28,
The width of the second web is equal to the length of the long element,
0.0 > of: < / RTI >
30. The method according to any one of claims 21 to 29,
The second web is bonded to the first web,
0.0 > of: < / RTI >
31. The method according to any one of claims 21 to 30,
Further comprising sealing at least one end of each individual pocket. ≪ Desc /
0.0 > of: < / RTI >
32. The method of claim 31,
Both ends of each individual pocket are sealed,
0.0 > of: < / RTI >
33. The method of claim 32,
Permanently sealing one end of each individual pocket and temporarily sealing the other end.
0.0 > of: < / RTI >
34. The method according to any one of claims 31 to 33,
The steps of sealing may include providing a continuous strip of sealing material, positioning a strip of sealing material along one end of a series of parallel individual pockets, and heat sealing the strip of sealing material to the ends of the individual pockets / RTI >
0.0 > of: < / RTI >
35. The method of claim 34,
The strip of sealing material has a plurality of perforated lines arranged transversely with respect to the length of the strip, whereby the perforation of one or more perforated lines permits access to one individual pocket containing an elongate element To position the strip of sealing material along the ends of the individual pockets,
0.0 > of: < / RTI >
36. The method of claim 35,
Wherein the strip of sealing material has a tab located between each pair of perforated lines,
0.0 > of: < / RTI >
34. The method according to any one of claims 31 to 33,
The width of the first web relative to the direction of travel of the first web is less than the width of the second web relative to the direction of the second web such that the width of the second web extends beyond the width of the first web, Thereby providing an additional width of the second web relative to the first web thereby folding the additional width of the second web such that the second web is positioned over one end of a series of individual pockets comprising long elements, To provide a seal on one end of the individual pockets,
0.0 > of: < / RTI >
39. The method of claim 37,
Wherein the additional width of the second web further comprises a series of perforations arranged transverse to the direction of travel of the second web and extending from the edge of each individual pocket to the edge of the second web.
0.0 > of: < / RTI >
39. The method of claim 37 or 38,
The seal includes a tab,
0.0 > of: < / RTI >
40. The method according to any one of claims 21 to 39,
The elongate elements being provided with a rotating drum roller having a supply of elongate elements located about its circumference, positioning the drum roller transverse to the side with the packaging insert having a series of individual pockets, Wherein the drum rollers are rotated to provide long elements to the pockets at a speed that matches the speed at which the individual pockets are fed to the feeding device of the long elements,
0.0 > of: < / RTI >
40. A packaging insert prepared by the method of any one of claims 1 to 40.
A method of manufacturing a packaging insert comprising long elements as described herein and with reference to the drawings.
A packaging insert as described herein and with reference to the figures.

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