WO2012156692A1

WO2012156692A1 - Container

Info

Publication number: WO2012156692A1
Application number: PCT/GB2012/051036
Authority: WO
Inventors: Jane NICHOLLS; Edward Awty; Charanjit Nandra; Nicole Hooper; Alfred Vincent SPENCER; Karl Kaljura; Paul Frobisher; Michael Newnham
Original assignee: British American Tobacco (Investments) Limited
Priority date: 2011-05-13
Filing date: 2012-05-11
Publication date: 2012-11-22
Also published as: GB201108056D0; WO2012156696A1

Abstract

A multi-part container (14) for use in a smoking article filter is disclosed. The container contains an additive. Two parts (14a, 14b)of the container are connected by a hinge (15) and arranged so that the application of an external force induces one part to pivot about the hinge relative to the other part to allow the release of the additive from the container. Filters (12) and smoking articles (10) comprising the multi-part containers are also provided.

Description

Container

Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a container suitable for use in a smoking article filter.

Background

As used herein, the term "smoking article" includes smokeable products such as cigarettes, cigars and cigarillos whether based on tobacco, tobacco derivatives, expanded tobacco, reconstituted tobacco or tobacco substitutes and also heat-not-burn products (i.e. products in which flavour is generated from a smoking material by the application of heat without causing combustion of the material). Typically, smoking articles are provided with filters for removing constituents from the smoke.

It is known to provide containers containing additives such as flavourants inside smoking articles. By applying force to the outside of the smoking article, the smoker may break the container and release the flavourant. Thus, a smoker wishing to add flavour to the smoke may do so by simply squeezing the smoking article.

However, as the containers are located within the smoking article, it may be difficult for the user to release the additive. To overcome this problem, containers may be used from which additive is more easily released; however such containers may have an increased likelihood of accidental additive release. Furthermore, since containers are located within smoking articles, it may be difficult for the user to detect or determine whether or not the additive has been released from the container.

Summary

According to a first aspect, a multi-part container is provided for use in a smoking article filter, the container containing an additive, wherein two parts of the container are connected by a hinge and arranged so that the application of an external force induces one part to pivot about the hinge relative to the other part to allow the release of the additive from the container.

According to a second aspect, a filter for a smoking article comprising a container in accordance with the first aspect is provided. According to a third aspect, a smoking article comprising a container in accordance with the first aspect, or a filter in accordance with the second aspect, is provided.

Brief Description of the Drawings

Embodiments will be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings (not to scale), in which:

Figure l shows a filter comprising a container according to a first embodiment;

Figure 2 shows a container according to an alternative embodiment;

Figure 3 shows a container according to a yet further embodiment; and

Figure 4 shows a container according to an alternative embodiment.

Detailed Description

A multi-part container is provided which is suitable for use in a smoking article filter and which contains an additive.

The multi-part container comprises two or more separate sections. The sections may be joined together to form an enclosed (encapsulated), or substantially enclosed region, in which the additive may be held. The parts of the multi-part container are arranged to move relative to one another and in this way, the additive may be released. The relative movement of the parts of the container is induced by external force applied to the container. In some embodiments, relative movement of the parts induces the additive to be released from the container.

Such multipart containers may, in some embodiments, allow additive to be released upon the application of a lower degree of force than is generally required to release additive from frangible capsules. However, the containers may not be as susceptible to releasing additive prematurely, such as during the manufacture of the filter, as a frangible capsule. The additive may be held directly within the container, for example when the container comprises an enclosed region. Alternatively, the additive may be present within a capsule, ampoule or the like, which is held within the container, and which is ruptured by means of the relative movement of the parts of the multi-part container. The parts of the multi-part container may comprise a non-frangible material. In other words, the parts of the multi-part container may not rupture under the normal forces that are exerted on smoking article filters in general use. This may be, for example, because the material is robust and resistant to fracture, or because it is flexible. A consequence of this is that the additive may be released from the container only by means of the parts of the multi-part container moving relative to one another, and not by means of the container rupturing.

In response to external pressure, the parts of the container move relative to one another, pivoting about the hinge. In other words, at least a section of one or more of the parts of the multi-part container is altered in alignment or conformation with respect to the remaining part or parts of the container.

When conventional containers provided in smoking articles rupture, the fracture pattern of the container is random, and thus the contents are released into the smoking article in an unpredictable manner. However, the parts of the present multi-part container comprise a non-frangible material, thus release of the smoke modifying material does not occur due to random rupture of the container, but occurs as a result of the parts of the multi-part container moving relative to one another. The manner in which the parts may move relative to one another, and thus the manner in which additive may be released, is predetermined by the design and structure of the container. Thus, the container is arranged to release the additive only in a predetermined direction or in a predetermined manner.

The parts of the multi-part container are induced to move relative to one another by the application of external force applied to the container. The force may be a compressive force, or may be an expansive force, such as a tensional or stretching force, which, for example, may pull oppositely on either end of the container. In use, force may be exerted by the user squeezing the smoking article filter, and thus imparting external force on the container, prior to, or during, smoking of the smoking article. Force exerted on the filter may be transmitted to a central container due to compression of the surrounding filter material. Alternatively, a portion of the container may protrude from, or be at or near the surface of the smoking article, and thus force may be exerted substantially directly on the container.

In some embodiments, the container may be a two-part container. The two parts may be hinged such that external force induces one part to pivot about the hinge relative to the other. The external force may be any force applied to the outside of the container. The force may be any type of force, such as a compressive force or a tensional force, or a torsional force. The external force may be applied directly to the container, or may be applied via other components of the smoking article, such as via one or more sections of filter material, for example.

In some embodiments, the container may be a two-part container. Two parts are connected by one or more hinges such that the application of an external force induces one part to pivot about the hinge(s) relative to the other.

Figure l shows a smoking article io comprising a cylindrical rod of smokeable material, in this case tobacco n, and a filter 12. The filter 12 comprises a substantially cylindrical plug of filter material 13, which is wrapped in a plugwrap (not shown).

The rod of smokeable material 11 is aligned with the filter 12 such that the end of the tobacco rod 11 abuts the end of the filter 12. The rod is wrapped in a paper wrapper (not shown), and is joined to the filter 12 by tipping paper (not shown) in a conventional manner.

The filter 12 comprises a container 14, which is a two part container, having a first part 14a, and a second part 14b. The container contains an additive. The two parts of the container are composed of a robust, non-frangible material, in this case a polymeric material, such as polylactic acid. The material is such that it will not break or deform under the normal forces that are exerted on smoking article filters.

The first part 14a and second part 14b are substantially the same shape and size, each having the form of a hollow cylinder, which has a domed sealed end, and an open end. The open ends of the first and second parts are attached to one another by means of a hinge 15. The first and second parts are able to pivot relative to one another about the hinge. The first and second parts can adopt any relative position between a first (closed) position wherein the opens ends of the two parts are in tight contact with one another, the container having the form of a sealed capsule, and a second (fully open) position, wherein there is a significant angle formed between the open ends, such as greater than 45 °. Prior to use, the container is in the form of a capsule, wherein the first and second parts are in the closed position, being joined to form a sealed chamber. The chamber comprises an additive, which in this embodiment is a flavourant (such as menthol). In the embodiment shown, an adhesive is used to seal the open ends of the first and second parts to one another, and thus prevent release of the additive. In other embodiments, frictional interaction may retain the two parts of the container in a closed position. The container 14 is positioned approximately within the centre of the filter 12 in an orientation that is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the filter 12. In other embodiments the container may be situated within the filter in other

orientations. In use, lateral force is exerted on the filter 12 in the region of the ends of the container 14, as indicated by the arrows A in the accompanying Figure 1.

This lateral force on the filter is transmitted through the filter material 13 and provides a compressive force on the longitudinal axis of the container 14. The compressive force causes the adhesive sealing the first and second parts to rupture, and induces the first and second parts to pivot about the hinge region, opening the container 14. As a result, additive is released from the container 14 into the surrounding filter material 13.

Substantially all of the additive that is released from the container enters the filter material at or near the open ends of the first and second parts of the container 14.

Due to the two-part arrangement of the container, the additive is directionally released into the smoking article filter in a controlled manner in a predetermined direction.

Furthermore, the rate with which additive is released from the container 14 is proportional to the force exerted on the filter 12. If force is strongly exerted, the two parts 14a and 14b of the container are induced to adopt a fully open position, and substantially all of the additive is rapidly released into the filter material 13. In contrast, if a weaker force is exerted on the filter 12, the first and second parts will only be induced to pivot about the hinge to a small degree. As a result, additive may be only slowly released from the container. The user can then accelerate the release by applying further force to the filter 12 to further open the container 14. In some embodiments, an advantage of the two-part arrangement of the capsule is that the user may be able to feel the relative movement of the different parts of the container, and will thus be aware that the additive has been released from the container. The user may also be able to determine and control the degree to which the container is opened, and thus the amount of additive released into the smoking article filter.

The external force may be any force applied to the outside of the container. The force may be any type of force, such as a compressive force or a tensional force, or a torsional force. The external force may be applied directly to the container, or may be applied via other components of the smoking article, such as via one or more sections of filter material, for example. The additive may be held directly within the container, for example when the container comprises an enclosed region. Alternatively, the additive may be present within a conventional capsule, which is held within the container, and which is ruptured by means of the relative movement of the parts of the multi-part container. In some embodiments, parts of the container may comprise a non-frangible material. In other words, the parts of the multi-part container may not rupture under the normal forces that are exerted on smoking article filters in general use. This may be, for example, because the material is robust and resistant to fracture, or because it is flexible. A consequence of this is that the additive may be released from the container only by means of the parts of the multi-part container moving relative to one another, and not by means of the container rupturing.

In response to external pressure, the parts of the container move relative to one another. In other words, at least a section of one or more of the parts of the multi-part container is altered in alignment or conformation with respect to the remaining part or parts of the container. The parts of the container may or may not separate entirely from one another. For example, the parts may remain bound together, for example by virtue of one or more hinges, to some extent throughout all modes of operation of the container. The movement of the parts relative to one about the hinge may also be accompanied by a degree of alteration in shape of one or more of the parts, for example, bending, buckling, or stretching. When conventional containers provided in smoking articles rupture, the fracture pattern of the container is random, and thus the contents are released into the smoking article in an unpredictable manner. However, the parts of the present multi-part container comprise a non-frangible material and the parts may move relative to one another in a controlled and predictable manner, so that release of the smoke modifying material may occur not due to random rupture of the container, but as a result of the parts of the multi-part container moving relative to one another. The manner in which the parts may move relative to one another, and thus the manner in which additive may be released, is predetermined by the design and structure of the container. Thus, the container may be arranged to release the additive only in a predetermined direction.

A container may be anything having an internal chamber in which one or more, such as 2, 3, 4, or 5, additives can be held and subsequently released when required. The additive may be held directly within the container, or may be held within the container within a capsule, such as a frangible capsule or other carrier. The containers of the invention may be arranged to release the additive into the smoking article in a controlled manner and/or in a predetermined direction. The container may comprise an entirely enclosed, sealed, region in which the additive may be held, or the additive may be held in a region of the container that is substantially, but not entirely, enclosed.

Containers for use in the invention may comprise an outer wall which is generally thin in relation to the dimensions of the carrier as a whole. The outer wall may surround and encapsulate, or substantially encapsulate an interior chamber in which the additive may be held. In some embodiments, the parts of the multi-part container are induced to move relative to one another by the application of external force on the container. In use, force is exerted, for example, by the user squeezing the smoking article filter prior to, or during, smoking of the smoking article or upon disposal of the smoking article. Such squeezing of the filter may impart compressive force on the container. Compressive force is generally exerted on the container in a longitudinal direction, however, in some embodiments, the compressive force may be exerted in a lateral direction on the container.

Figure 2 shows an alternative embodiment in which the multi-part container 20, comprises two parts, which are shaped to assist the opening of the container by the hinging action. The container 20 comprises a first part 20a and a second part 20b. These parts 20a, 20b comprise a handle or lever 22a, 22b. The parts also comprise a recess 23a,23b, each having an open end 24a,24b.

The first part 20a and second part 20b are attached to each other by means of a hinge 21. The hinge in the embodiment shown in Figure 2 comprises a pair of arms 25 which form part of the second container part 20b and which are provided with a hole 26. This hole 26 in the arm 25 is configured to clip onto a protrusion 27 provided on the side of the first container part 20a. In some embodiments, the parts 25,26,27 of the hinge 21 are snapped into place and the container parts are attached to one another and may pivot about the hinge. The first and second parts 2oa,2ob are able to pivot relative to one another about the hinge 21 from the open position illustrated in Figure 2 to a closed position in which the open ends 24a,24b of the recesses 23a,23b are aligned to form a chamber within which additive may be held. In some embodiments, the additive may be directly filled into the recess 23a of the first container part 20a prior to attaching the container parts 2oa,2ob to one another and sealing the open ends 24a,24b of the recesses 23a,23b to one another to form the chamber. In alternative embodiments, the chamber may hold the additive inside a capsule or ampoule, which is placed inside the recess 23a of the first container part 20a. The capsule or ampoule may be of a suitable size and shaped, and/or is positioned within the chamber in such a way that the capsule or ampoule is opened by the movement of the container 20 from its closed position to its open position.

When the container parts 2oa,2ob are aligned, the recesses 23a,23b are aligned and fitted to form a chamber within which the additive is held. The chamber may be a sealed chamber and the seal may be formed by the open end 24a of one recess 23a fitting within the open end 24b of the other recess 23b. The relative sizes of the open ends 24a,24b may be similar enough to form a friction fit. In some embodiments, the chamber formed from the recesses 23a,23b may be additionally or alternatively sealed by an adhesive, thus preventing the release of additive prior to actuation of the container 20.

In some embodiments, the container 20 contains an ampoule that contains an additive, such as menthol. The two parts 2oas,2ob of the container are composed of a robust, non-frangible material, in this case a polymeric material, such as polylactic acid. The material is such that it will not break or deform under the normal forces that are exerted on smoking article filters.

In use, the container 20 will be incorporated into the filter of a smoking article. For example, the container 20 may be positioned within the filter of a smoking article in an orientation that will allow lateral compression or squeezing of the filter to exert a suitable force on the levers 22a,22b of the container parts 2oa,2ob to open the chamber formed by the recesses 23a,23b and allow release of the additive contained therein. In use, a compressive force is exerted on the levers 22a,22b, as indicated by the arrows B in Figure 2. When the container 20 is positioned within a filter of a smoking article, this lateral force on the filter is transmitted through the filter material and provides a compressive force on the levers 22a,22b of the container 20 as shown by the arrows B. The compressive force induces the first and second parts 20a,2ob to overcome any factional resistance and/or to break any other seal at the open ends 24a,24b of the recesses 23a,23b, thereby causing the two parts 20a, 20b to pivot about the hinge 21. As a result, the container 20 opens as shown by arrow C.

Where the additive is provided in a capsule or ampoule, this is contained in the chamber formed by the recesses 23a,23b, and the capsule or ampoule is ruptured or otherwise opened as a result of the relative movement of the container parts 2oa,2ob. Thus, as a result of the relative movement of the container parts 2oa,2ob, to the open positions, additive is released from the container 20 into the surrounding filter material in the filter. Substantially all of the additive that is released from the container enters the filter material at or near the open ends of the first and second parts 2oa,2ob of the container 20.

Furthermore, the release of the additive from the container 20 may be controlled by the degree of force applied to the levers 22a,22b of the container 20. The greater the force applied to the levers 22a,22b, the further the relative movement of the two container parts 20a and 20b , and the greater the opening created between the recesses 23a,23b, allowing more additive to leave the container 20 and/ or allowing it to leave at a faster rate.

The container 20 illustrated in Figure 2 has recesses which may be particularly suitable for receiving additive which is contained within a capsule or ampoule, the recesses 23a,23b being of similar shapes and sizes.

Figure 3 shows a container 30 which is configured to receive the additive directly. The container 30 comprises a first part 30a and a second part 30b. These parts 30a, 30b comprise a handle or lever 32a, 32b. The first part 30a also comprises a recess 33a with an open end 34a. The second part 30b further comprises a sealing part 33b which may optionally include a relatively shallow recess (not shown).

The first part 30a and second part 30b are attached to each other by means of a hinge 31. The hinge in the embodiment shown in Figure 3 comprises interlocking parts which are an open knuckle 35 which receives a pin 36 which may rotate within the knuckle 35. The open knuckle 35 allows the pin 36 to be pushed into the knuckle to form the hinge 31, snapping into place so that the container parts 3oa,3ob are attached to one another and may pivot about the hinge 31.

The first and second parts 3oa,3ob are able to pivot relative to one another about the hinge 31 from the open position illustrated in Figure 3 to a closed position in which the open end 34a of the recess 33a is closed and optionally sealed by the sealing part 33b , forming a chamber within which additive may be held.

In use, the container 30 will be incorporated into the filter of a smoking article. For example, the container 30 may be positioned within the filter of a smoking article in an orientation that will allow lateral compression or squeezing of the filter to exert a suitable force on the levers 32a,32b of the container parts 3oa,3ob to open the chamber formed by the recess 33a and the sealing part 33b and allow release of the additive contained therein.

In use, a compressive force is exerted on the levers 32a,32b, as indicated by the arrows F in Figure 3. When the container 30 is positioned within a filter of a smoking article, this lateral force on the filter is transmitted through the filter material and provides a compressive force on the levers 32a,32b of the container 30 as shown by the arrows F. The compressive force induces the first and second parts 30a,30b to overcome any factional resistance and/or to break any other seal at the open end 34a of the recess 33a closed by the sealing party 33b thereby causing the two container parts 3oa,3ob to pivot about the hinge 31. As a result, the container 30 opens to release the additive. The parts of the container may be arranged so that upon applying an external force, additive is ejected, squirted or driven for example, forcefully driven from the container, and is thus deposited further from the container than is generally possible with known containers, such as when frangible capsules are ruptured. Since the direction of release is predetermined, the additive may be squirted or driven from the container in a particular direction.

Since the direction of release is predetermined, the additive may be released into the smoking article in any specific direction, and may be directed towards a particular region of the smoking article, such as the filter. The region may be, for example, a cavity, a particular region of filter material, or a peripheral region of the smoking article filter. The region into which the additive is released may comprise an active

component, such as a second additive, which may or may not be held by a container.

Within the centre of the container may be a hollow cavity, or may be a sponge-like porous material. The sponge-like material may carry the additive distributed within the sponge-like material, and optionally, absorbed by the sponge-like material. The sponge may be compressible and may release the additive when compressed, for example by a compression force induced by the relative movement of the parts of the multi-part container. Figure 4 shows a container 50 which applies a compressive force to a sponge-like porous material 54 holding an additive. The sponge-like material 54 may have an open or a closed cell structure and compression will result in release of the additive.

The container 50 comprises a first part 50a, a second part 50b, and a sponge-like material 54. An additive is held within the sponge-like material 54. The first container part 50a and a second part 50b each comprise a handle or lever 52a,52b. The parts also comprise a recess 53a,53b, to receive the sponge-like material 54. The container parts 50a,5ob are composed of a robust, non-frangible material, in this case a polymeric material, such as polylactic acid, the material being such that it will not break or deform under the normal forces that are exerted on smoking article filters.

The first part 50a and second part 50b are attached to each other by means of a hinge 51. The hinge in the embodiment shown in Figure 4 comprises a pair of arms 55 which form part of the second container part 50b and which are provided with a hole 56. This hole 56 in the arm 55 is configured to clip onto a protrusion 58 provided on the side of arms 57 which form part of the first container part 50a. In some embodiments, the parts 55,56,57,58 of the hinge 51 are snapped into place and the container parts are attached to one another and may pivot about the hinge 51. The first and second parts 50a,sob are able to pivot relative to one another about the hinge 51 from the resting position illustrated in Figure 4 to a compressed position in which the recesses 53a,53b are brought closer together, thereby compressing the sponge-like material 54 held therebetween. The sponge-like material 54 comprises cells for containing additive, these cells being voids for containing additive, which may be open cells having access to the exterior of the cell structure via one or more pathways, and/or may be closed cells which do not have access to the exterior of the cell structure via one or more pathways. Closed cells can retain additive because they do not have access to the exterior of the cell structure, while open cells can retain additive because, for example, the contained additive is adsorbed to the material of the cell structure. In use, the container 50 will be incorporated into the filter of a smoking article. For example, the container 50 may be positioned within the filter of a smoking article in an orientation that will allow lateral compression or squeezing of the filter to exert a suitable force on the levers 52a,52b of the container parts 50a,sob to compress the sponge-like material 54 held by the recesses 53a,53b and allow release of the additive contained therein.

In use, a compressive force is exerted on the levers 52a,52b, as indicated by the arrows G in Figure 4. When the container 50 is positioned within a filter of a smoking article, this lateral force on the filter is transmitted through the filter material and provides a compressive force on the levers 52a,52b of the container 50 as shown by the arrows G. The compressive force induces the first and second parts 50a,sob to pivot about the hinge 51. As a result, the sponge-like material held by the recesses 53a,53b of the parts 50a,50b is compressed, releasing additive into the surrounding filter material in the filter.

The rate with which additive is released from the component 50 is proportional to the force exerted on the filter and the component. The greater the force applied to the levers 52a,52b, the further the hinged container parts 50a,sob move towards each other and the more they compress the sponge-like material 54, so that more of the additive is released into the filter material. Thus, the user can then control the release of the additive by adjusting the force applied to the filter and the container 50. In some embodiments, the sponge-like material 54 may be encapsulated in a second container, or a sheath, or the like to prevent release of the additive prior to actuation of the container 50.

In some embodiments, the container may be further encapsulated in a second container, or a sheath, or the like. This may allow greater control over the directional release of the contents of the container. It may also provide greater protection from accidental or premature breakage, or incidental leakage. In this way, for example, single wall or multi-wall containers may be used to tailor container stability, strength, rupture resistance, processing ease in filter manufacture, etc. The size of the container may be dependent on the volume of additive required, which in turn may be dependent on a number of factors, including the potency of the additive and the degree of smoke modification desired. Generally, it is preferable for the volume of the container to be as large as possible, so that as much additive as possible may be provided, to modify the smoke as significantly as possible.

The container should not be so large however, that it has an adverse effect on the filtration or draw characteristics of the filter. Furthermore, as the size of the container is increased, the risk of accidental release of additive from the container may also be increased.

Since the rupture of conventional containers occurs randomly, the contents of the container may be released generally into the surrounding filter material. Consequently, the containers themselves must also be larger. However, in accordance with the present invention, the additive is directionally released from the container in a controlled and predictable direction. As a result, the distribution of additive is more efficient, and smaller containers may be used than was previously possible. Alternatively, containers having similar sizes to those used previously may be used in accordance with the present invention to deliver a significantly greater amount of additive to a desired location within the filter.

Generally, the length of the container is within the range imm to 30mm, and more preferably between 5mm and 20mm. The diameter of the container is preferably within the range 0.1mm to 6mm, and more preferably between imm and 5mm.

If a large amount of additive is required, multiple containers may be used. The containers may all be multi-part containers in accordance with the invention, or may be a combination of conventional and multi-part containers. The containers may have the same or different shapes, and may be of the same or of different sizes. When multiple containers are used, they may contain the same, similar or a combination of different additives. The multiple containers may be engineered to release additive substantially

simultaneously in response to a single application of force on the filter. Alternatively, when multiple containers are present, the filter may require a number of sequential applications of force for release of the contents from all of the containers. The containers may be arranged to directionally release the additives into substantially the same area of filter material, or each container may have a different target area of directional release.

The container may be arranged to release the entire contents of additive in response to a single application of force on the filter. Alternatively, the container may be arranged to release a number of discrete deliveries of additive in response to sequential applications of force.

In some embodiments, the container may comprise two separate chambers. The separate chamber may be different chambers, or be formed from a single chamber that is divided into two separate chambers, for example by means of a septum or other internal barrier. In this case, the two chambers of the container may comprise the same additive, or a combination different additives. The chambers may also comprise two reagents, one or both of which may not function as an additive, but which reagents react or mix together to form an additive. The two more additives may chemically react, for example, to produce an exothermic or endothermic reaction. The additives could be an organic acid and an alcohol which react to form an ester.

The additive or other reagents within each chamber may be released substantially simultaneously in response to a single application of force such as compressive force. Alternatively, the different chambers may release the additive in response to a number of sequential applications of force on the filter.

A single smoking article filter may comprise two, three, four or more multi-part containers in accordance with the invention. Multiple containers may be positioned, for example, at regularly spaced intervals along the length of the filter. Alternatively, multiple containers may be situated as a cluster within the filter, for example within a cavity formed between two sections of filter material.

Due to the use of multi-part containers in which the parts are induced to move relative to one another, additive is released from the disclosed containers in a highly controlled and predictable manner. The containers of the invention may have essentially any shape. The container may, for example, be hemispherical, conical, trapezoidal, pyramidal, oblate, ellipsoidal, cubic, or any other suitable shape. The shape of the container may only be restricted by the desired manner of release of the additive. For example, the shapes of the different parts of the multi-part container may be configured to release additive in a particular direction, in a particular amount, with a particular velocity, in response to a particular application of force, etc.

Directional release of additive from the container may be enhanced by the use of a wicking element, such as absorbent material within the smoking article filter, and in particular, the use of absorbent material that is more absorbent than general filter material such as cellulose acetate. For example, a wicking element, such as an absorbent material, may be positioned adjacent to the container within the filter in the area in which directional release of additive from the container is desired. In this way, the wicking element may draw the additive in the desired direction. Any suitable wicking element may be used. Suitable absorbent material may include, for example, uncrimped cellulose acetate thread, other cellulosic materials such as hydroxymethyl cellulose, starch, or foamed polyvinyl alcohol may be used. In further embodiments, the container may be sized, shaped, or positioned so that at least a portion of the container is within the smoking article, and a portion is external to the smoking article. For example, the container may be situated substantially within the smoking article filter, having an external portion which protrudes out of the filter and is accessible to the user. The external portion may merely comprise a single surface. For example, the container may be shaped to fit within a cavity in a smoking article filter, one surface of the container being shaped so that when the container is combined with the filter, the external surface of the container is flush with the outer surface of the filter. The container is a multi-part container and comprises two or more separate parts. The parts of the multi-part container may comprise a non-frangible material.

Known containers, such as frangible capsules, generally release their contents into the smoking article in an unpredictable amount and direction, for example, because the capsule ruptures in a random manner. However, the parts of the present multi-part container comprise a non-frangible material, and release of the additive is due to movement of these parts relative to one another, and is not due to rupture or other random breakage of one or more parts of the container. Thus, the release of the additive does not occur randomly, but occurs with a predetermined and predictable direction, quantity and velocity.

The container may comprise any non-frangible material. Materials used in

conventional frangible containers may be used in the invention provided that that they are toughened to provide resistance to rupture. For example, materials used to provide containers typically utilized in the pharmaceutical industry may be used, and may be strengthened by having a much greater thickness than would usually be the case. The parts of the container may comprise a moulded plastic structure.

Alternatively, the container may be resistant to rupture as a result of the different parts being flexible or having a degree of elasticity.

Suitable container material may be gelatin based, for example, or may be formed from a polymeric material, such as modified cellulose. One type of modified cellulose which may be used is hydroxypropylmethyl cellulose. Many materials are known which may be suitable for use in the production of containers and these include high molecular weight polyethylene glycols, polylactic acid, polyvinyl alcohol, plastarch material, polycaprolactone, polyglycolide, a polyhydroxyalkanoate such as poly-3- hydroxybutyrate, and zein-derived bioplastics. However, the container could in principle be produced using any robust material, such as a mouldable synthetic polymer or plastic material, ceramic, starch, paper, metal, glass, or other suitable material known to the skilled person.

The container may alternatively be comprised of a wax, resin, natural or synthetic gum, latex or plastic material which retains its shape and strength at room temperature and at smoking temperature. Examples of suitable waxes include beeswax, candelilla, carnauba, shellac wax, caranday, sugarcane wax, myrtle wax and petroleum wax.

Suitable resins from which containers may be composed include epoxy resins, terpene resins, petroleum resins, ester gum, phenolic resins and rosin based resins. Preferred gums include gum arabic, locust bean, guar, alginates, carrageenan and pectin. One or more of the parts of the container may advantageously be coated with a varnish or waterproof material, such as silicone, to strengthen the container material and/or prevent absorption of, or degradation by, the contents over a prolonged period. Preferably the substances comprising the parts of the container have no effect on the taste or properties of the mainstream smoke.

The core of the container may comprise a cavity in which additive is held, or the container may comprise a sponge-like porous material, which may be compressible, or a gel or a similar material. The additive may be distributed within the sponge-like material, and optionally, absorbed by the sponge-like material, which may release the additive by diffusion, or when compressed. A sponge-like material may be a body of absorbent material impregnated with the additive, which is progressively compressible and configured to release at least a part of the additive contents when partly compressed.

The sponge-like material may comprise a matrix with a closed cell structure, in particular, a closed cell foam structure. The closed cell foam defines a matrix having a plurality of small cavities which may contain additive. The cavities are closed by the foam material, retaining the additive until selective release. On application of a compressive force, the closed cell foam may be configured to release additive.

The closed cell foam substrate does not require an outer shell to retain the additive, and so may form a part of the container without an outer shell.

Alternatively, the sponge-like material may be coated in a second material, which may form part of the container. This outer material may function to retain the smoke modifying material within the sponge-like material until release of the contents is desired, at which time, external force exerted by the user may rupture the outer shell and squeeze the additive from the sponge-like material.

The additive held within the container may be anything which may be added to smoke and which may modify the composition and/or characteristics of smoke. The additive may be a deodoriser, a diluent, an adsorbent, or any other substance that is capable of modifying the smoke. The additive may be water. Where local regulations permit, the additive may be a flavourant, such as menthol. As used herein, the terms "flavour" and "flavourant" refer to materials which, where local regulations permit, may be used to create a desired taste or aroma in a product for adult consumers. They may include extracts (e.g., licorice, hydrangea, Japanese white bark magnolia leaf, chamomile, fenugreek, clove, menthol, Japanese mint, aniseed, cinnamon, herb, wintergreen, cherry, berry, peach, apple, Drambuie, bourbon, scotch, whiskey, spearmint, peppermint, lavender, cardamon, celery, cascarilla, nutmeg, sandalwood, bergamot, geranium, honey essence, rose oil, vanilla, lemon oil, orange oil, cassia, caraway, cognac, jasmine, ylang-ylang, sage, fennel, piment, ginger, anise, coriander, coffee, or a mint oil from any species of the genus Mentha), flavour enhancers, bitterness receptor site blockers, sensorial receptor site activators or stimulators, sugars and/or sugar substitutes (e.g., sucralose, acesulfame potassium, aspartame, saccharine, cyclamates, lactose, sucrose, glucose, fructose, sorbitol, or mannitol), and other additives such as charcoal, chlorophyll, minerals, botanicals, or breath freshening agents. They may be imitation, synthetic or natural ingredients or blends thereof. They may be in any suitable form, for example, oil, liquid, or powder.

The flavour may be a tobacco flavour. Where the flavour is delivered in liquid form the tobacco flavour could be derived from tobacco extract. Where the flavour is derived from a solid product, the product could be tobacco leaf in shredded, particulate or granular form, or in the form of reconstituted tobacco sheet material.

The additive may be a solid, such as a powder, a liquid, such as a liquid flavourant, deodoriser, water, etc., or a gas, such as an aromatic composition.

The additive may be held inside a capsule within the container. The container may comprise two or more different additives.

The container may be coloured. For example, the container may comprise a colouring agent. The colouring agent may be used to render more easily the location of the container within the filter during the manufacturing process. Alternatively or additionally, the colouring agent may provide an interesting appearance to the smoking article, particularly if the container is intended to be only partially enclosed within the filter material, or if the tipping paper (and plugwrap if applicable) is intended to have a transparent window portion. Alternatively or in addition, the additive held in the container may be coloured. This would give the user an additional, visual indication that the additive has been successfully released, as the additive may be seen to be released from the container. This may be particularly useful if the container comprises a combination of additives, wherein one of the additives is coloured, and thereby serves to indicate release of the other, colourless, additive(s).

When the additive is coloured, it may be desirable for the container to directionally release additive into a region of the smoking article or smoking article filter in which the colour will be observed. For example, the additive may be directionally released into a peripheral region of the smoking article, such as a circumferential region or towards the mouth end. The coloured additive may be directionally released into a section of the smoking article that is visible via a transparent window portion. In some embodiments, smoking article filters comprising the containers of the invention may comprise a transparent window which may allow visualisation of the container within the filter. In this way, the user is able to visualise the container within the filter, and may be able to visually determine whether the additive has been released. To produce the effect of a transparent window, the tipping paper (and plugwrap if applicable) may comprise a single piece of transparent material, which can be, but is not limited to, one of polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), cellulose acetate film, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyethylene oxide (PEOX), polyethylene, cellophane, Natureflex™, polylactic acid, plastarch material, polycaprolactone, polyglycolide, a polyhydroxyalkanoate such as poly-3-hydroxybutyrate, and zein- derived bioplastics. The tipping paper may have an opaque coating on certain portions to leave a transparent uncoated section which defines the window.

The container may be located in any position within the filter. For example, the container may be located in the centre of the filter.

The filter material in which the container is held may comprise any suitable filter material, such as cellulose acetate, polypropylene, paper or any other suitable material. In some embodiments at least a portion of the container may be at or near the surface of the smoking article. For example, when the smoking article is a cigarette, at least a portion of the container may not be encompassed by the filter material, but may be incorporated within the smoking article only by means of the plugwrap or tipping paper. The container may be an external container. In other words, at least a portion of the external container is not encompassed by the smoking article. For example, when the smoking article is a cigarette, at least a portion of the external container is not encompassed by the plugwrap, cigarette paper, tipping paper, or any other paper or covering of the cigarette. In other words, at least a portion of the container is outside of all of the other components of the smoking article both prior to use, and during use. In particular, in accordance with the invention, the user is able to see, touch, and feel at least a portion of the container directly. In some embodiments, the container may protrude from the smoking article filter. The portion of the container that is at or near the surface of the smoking article, or is external to the smoking article may be a section of the container structure on which force such as compressive force should preferably be exerted in order to release the additive. For example, in containers in which the additive is released due to one part of the container being pushed into another part of the container, the part of the container that is pushed may be at or near the surface, or may protrude from the surface, of the smoking article. The smoking article may include some indication that force should be exerted in this region in order to release the additive. For example, the container may comprise a surface having pimples or ridges, or other features, that may be detectable through any filter material or wrapping layers of the smoking article, alternatively, or in addition, the smoking article filter may comprise a graphic or other printed indication on the outer surface.

The container may have merely a single surface that is at or near the surface of the smoking article, or is external to the smoking article. For example, the container may be shaped to fit within a cavity in the smoking article filter, one surface of the container being flush with the outer surface of the filter. In this case, the container may be external to the tipping, plugwrap, or other surface layer of the smoking article, or may be encapsulated by such a wrapping. In other embodiments, the container may protrude out of the filter, and in this case, the container may be arranged so that when force is applied to the protruding section, this section becomes flush or internal to the surface of the smoking article. Such an effect may serve to indicate that the additive has been released from the container.

Where at least a portion of the container is external to the smoking article, at least this portion of the container will be directly accessible to the user. Therefore, the user will be able to readily detect the release of the additive from the container, for example, by simply feeling the movement of the multi-part container, by observing the release of the additive, or by detecting an aroma. Furthermore, in some embodiments, release of the additive from the container may be accompanied by an audible noise, or a detectable change in the feel of the container as the parts of the container move relative to one another.

The method of manufacture of the container may be dependent on the precise composition and make-up required. Any suitable method of manufacture may be used.

Parts of the multi-part container may be produced by any suitable technique. For example, techniques including blow moulding, injection moulding, 3D printing and the use of Rotary Dies may be used. A combination of techniques may be used. The container may be incorporated at any location within a smoking article, for example, the container may be located within the filter of a smoking article.

The smoking article may comprise one or more containers that are arranged to directionally release additive towards a particular region of the smoking article or smoking article filter, which may be any region of the smoking article or smoking article filter.

This region may comprise a material which is activated by the additive released from the additive release component. For example this material may comprise a solid that is active when in solution, and is thus activated by the action of additive in the form of water or a specific solvent.

The target region of directional additive release may be a cavity within the centre of the filter, which may or may not comprise other active materials. For example, the cavity may comprise crystalline flavourant, which may be activated when additive in the form of a solvent is directionally released into the cavity to contact the crystals. Alternatively, the cavity may comprise a material which is sensitive to additive in the form of water, for example, a material which in contact with water changes colour, dissolves, makes a sound, emits a flavour or an odour, etc. The particular region to which additive is directed may be a region of filter material comprising a solid material in the form of small granules evenly distributed within the material. Such an arrangement may be useful, for example, when a granular crystalline flavourant is to be used in combination with a container comprising a solvent additive. In this case, a plurality of containers may be used, from which additive may be sequentially released to provide flavourant over the duration of use of the smoking article. In this arrangement, additive may be directed into the same or different regions of the granule-containing filter material.

The region to which additive is directed may be a peripheral region of the smoking article or smoking article filter, such as a region at or near the circumferential surface of the smoking article, or at the mouth end of the filter. Such an arrangement may be suitable, for example, when the additive is coloured, to provide an interesting appearance to the smoking article, and/or to provide a visual indication that the additive has been released, for example, where the container comprises a combination of coloured and colourless additives. This arrangement may also be suitable when the additive is an odorant, to facilitate diffusion of the odour out of the smoking article.

A smoking article or smoking article filter may comprise two or more additives, each carried within a separate container. This arrangement may be suitable, for example, when the two or more additives chemically react, or where the additives are subject to oxidation, diffusion, or other means of loss of intensity over time.

The two or more containers may be arranged to directionally release additive towards each other. Such an arrangement may be useful, for example, where the additives chemically react, such as to produce an exothermic or endothermic reaction, or a reaction in which an odour or a gas is evolved, or a colour or other visual effect is produced.

The two or more containers may be arranged to directionally release additive towards a common region of the filter. This may be suitable where a significant quantity of additive is required to be supplied to a particular region of the filter, for example, where the additive is water, and the target region of the filter comprises a water sensitive material, such as a water swellable, water soluble, or water degradable material.

Since the containers of the invention are designed to directionally release additive, then the orientation in which the container is inserted into the filter should be controlled.

The container may be inserted into the filter using any suitable method.

In embodiments in which the container is intended to be positioned in the centre of the filter material, suitable apparatus may, for example, include a means for supplying a continuous stream of filter material from a source of such material (a bale, bobbin, or the like). The apparatus may further include a container insertion unit for inserting or depositing the individual containers at predetermined intervals within the filter material. The filter material having containers deposited therein may then be received into a rod-making means for providing a continuous rod which may subsequently be subdivided into the desired length at predetermined intervals to form individual filters.

Any suitable alternative technique may also be used if applicable. For example, the containers may be inserted into a cavity within the filter, or known dual or triple filter combining techniques may be used. The containers may be incorporated into the filter using a vertical feed method.

Embodiments of the invention are configured to comply with applicable laws and/or regulations, such as, by way of non-limiting example, regulations relating to flavours, additives, emissions, constituents, and/or the like. For example, a smoking article implementing the invention may be configured to be compliant with applicable regulations before and after a user releases an additive. Such implementations may be configured to be compliant with applicable regulations before, during and after user interaction.

In order to address various issues and advance the art, the entirety of this disclosure shows by way of illustration various embodiments in which the claimed invention(s) may be practiced and provide for superior containers for holding and releasing additive. The advantages and features of the disclosure are of a representative sample of embodiments only, and are not exhaustive and/or exclusive. They are presented only to assist in understanding and teach the claimed features. It is to be understood that advantages, embodiments, examples, functions, features, structures, and/or other aspects of the disclosure are not to be considered limitations on the disclosure as defined by the claims or limitations on equivalents to the claims, and that other embodiments may be utilised and modifications may be made without departing from the scope and/ or spirit of the disclosure. Various embodiments may suitably comprise, consist of, or consist essentially of, various combinations of the disclosed elements, components, features, parts, steps, means, etc. In addition, the disclosure includes other inventions not presently claimed, but which may be claimed in future.

Claims

1. A multi-part container for use in a smoking article filter, the container containing an additive, wherein two parts of the container are connected by a hinge and arranged so that the application of an external force induces one part to pivot about the hinge relative to the other part to allow the release of the additive from the container.

2. A container according to claim 1, wherein the container comprises a non- frangible material.

3. A container according to either of the preceding claims, wherein the additive is released only in a predetermined direction.

4. A container according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the additive is held within the container inside a capsule.

5. A container according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the container comprises a material that is non-frangible due to being robust and resistant to fracture under the normal forces that are exerted on smoking article filters.

6. A container according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the container comprises a material that is non-frangible due to being flexible.

7. A container according to either of the preceding claims, wherein the additive is a deodoriser, a diluent, an adsorbent, water, or a flavourant.

8. A container according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the container is a two-part container.

9. A container according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the container comprises two different additives.

10. A container according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the external force is a compressive force.

11. A container according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the external force is a tensional force.

12. A filter for a smoking article comprising a container as claimed in any of the preceding claims.

13. A smoking article comprising a filter as claimed in claim 12, or a container as claimed in any of the claims 1 to 11.