WO2020193287A1

WO2020193287A1 - Moisture adjusting device and method for diffusing a liquid in a smoking articles package

Info

Publication number: WO2020193287A1
Application number: PCT/EP2020/057296
Authority: WO
Inventors: Pranav KULKARNI; Laura GRAU
Original assignee: Jt International Sa
Priority date: 2019-03-28
Filing date: 2020-03-17
Publication date: 2020-10-01

Abstract

The invention relates to moisture adjusting device (1), wherein the moisture adjusting device comprises at least one liquid (2), at least one liquid storage (4), in which the liquid (2) is storable, and at least one liquid diffusor (6), which releases the liquid (2) at a controllable rate into the surrounding (8) of the moisture adjusting device (1), wherein the liquid (2) is transferrable from the liquid storage (4) to the liquid diffusor (6), wherein the moisture adjusting device (1) is replaceably insertable into a smoking articles package containing at least one smoking article (12). T he moisture adjusting device (1) has a cylindrical shape of a smoking article (12). The invention also relates to a method for diffusing a liquid (2) in a smoking articles package with a moisture adjusting device (1).

Description

Moisture adjusting device and method for diffusing a liquid in a smoking articles package

Description

The present invention relates to a moisture adjusting device, wherein the moisture adjusting device comprises at least one liquid storage, in which at least one liquid is stored, and at least one liquid diffusor, which releases the liquid at a controllable rate into the surrounding of the moisture adjusting device, wherein the liquid is transferrable from the liquid storage to the liquid diffusor, wherein the moisture adjusting device is replaceably insertable into a smoking articles package containing at least one smoking article. The invention also relates to a method for diffusing a liquid in a smoking articles package internal environment to moisturize it.

It is known, that tobacco products and smoking articles in particular, like combustible ciga- rettes, are prone to drying and dehydration if stored or exposed to dry conditions like a dry climate (hot or cold), which negatively affects the sensory experience when smoking the dried/dehydrated tobacco product. From production to the first use by the end consumer, smoking articles are generally stored in a sealed packaging which prohibits or at least limits moisture exchange with the surrounding air. But after the sealed packaging is opened by the consumer for the first time, standard smoking articles packaging offer no possibility to reseal the packaging, which implies that after this first opening of the smoking articles packaging, the smoking articles contained therein may become dry or dehydrated if stored in a dry surround ing (e.g. hot-dry climate or cold-dry climate), as the now unsealed packaging allows a moisture exchange with the surrounding.

It is therefore the objective of the invention to provide a device or method to prevent or minimize the moisture loss or the drying of a tobacco product in an at least once opened packaging, to maintain the quality, taste and overall sensory experience of the tobacco product during use by consumers. It is further the objective of the invention to provide such a device or method, which is easy to produce, low in cost, easy to use, consumer friendly, and is easily integratable into the production and/or packaging process of smoking articles.

The afore mentioned problem is solved by a moisture adjusting device, wherein the moisture adjusting device comprises at least one liquid storage, in which at least one liquid, is stored, and at least one liquid diffusor, which releases the liquid at a controllable rate into the sur rounding of the moisture adjusting device, wherein the liquid is transferrable from the liquid storage to the liquid diffusor upon pressurization of the liquid storage by application of a force directed to the inner volume of the liquid storage, wherein the moisture adjusting device is replaceably insertable into a smoking articles package containing at least one smoking article. The moisture adjusting device thus forms a liquid container designed to release liquid from the liquid storage and moisture towards the outside of said liquid container in a package of smok ing articles. The invention is characterized in that the liquid storage has a cylindrical shape having opposite base areas and comprises at least one outlet located on one of the cylinder’s base areas, through which the liquid is releasable from the inside of the liquid storage to its outside. In addition it is further characterized in that the liquid diffusor is positioned directly next to the outlet of the liquid storage, wherein the liquid is absorbable into the liquid diffusor when exiting the liquid storage. The moisture adjusting device is a liquid container designed to re lease moisture towards the outside of the container after release of a liquid contained therein.

The device of the invention may have a cylindrical shape of a smoking article is advantageous, as with this shape the moisture adjusting device is especially easily insertable into a smoking articles package. With this shape, the moisture adjusting device can be inserted into the smok ing articles package by replacing one smoking article. In the smoking articles package no fur ther space is needed for placing the moisture adjusting device. Therefore, a conventional smoking articles package can be used with the present invention. Preferably, a smoking article contained in a package together with the moisture adjusting device is a cigarette, a cigarillo or a cigar. Preferably, the smoking articles package is a standard crush-proof box having a sealed outer packaging consisting of foil before first opening thereof. Preferably, the moisture adjust ing device has substantially the same shape as a standard cigarette. It is conceivable, that the moisture adjusting device is provided extra from the smoking articles package and can be inserted into the then opened package on demand of the consumer. However, it is also con ceivable that the moisture adjusting device is inserted into the smoking articles package during the packaging process. This would imply to either enlarge the package slightly, so the moisture adjusting device ca be fitted in addition to the standard number of smoking articles contained in one package, or to reduce the number of smoking articles in a package by one, so room for the moisture adjusting device is generated. where the packaged smoking articles are cigarillos or cigars, the cylindrical shape of the mois ture adjusting device is adapted to the slightly different dimensions of cigarillos or cigars so it again comprises the very same shape as the respective smoking articles with which it is stored in a smoking articles package.

According to another embodiment, the moisture adjusting device, in other words the liquid container, and/or liquid storage and/or liquid diffusor consist of a natural material. Such a nat ural material, e.g. wood or expanded clay, used for the whole moisture adjusting device, or for a part of the moisture adjusting device, gives a consumer a high-quality experience due to the natural appearance of the container. The surface of such natural materials can be treated, so the moisture adjusting device creates a pleasing and high-quality experience when handled. Preferably, the whole moisture adjusting device consists of the natural material. Due to the porosity of natural materials as wood or expanded clay, such materials exhibit water-storing properties. This means, when wetted by the consumer, the natural material will absorb the liquid, preferably water, and store it in its volume, being the liquid storage. A humidity gradient between the moisture adjusting device and the surrounding atmosphere together with the po rosity of the natural material will cause the liquid to move from the volume of the moisture adjusting device to its surface, where it is diffused into the surrounding atmosphere. Therefore, the surface of the natural material serves as the liquid diffusor. This embodiment is of special advantage, as the moisture adjusting device according to this embodiment is reusable. Fur thermore, the humidification process is started by the consumer on demand by wetting the natural material. This means, that the consumer can individually tailor the time and duration of the moisturizing process. Also, the amount of liquid with which the natural material is wetted, can be modified by the consumer. Therefore, it is also possible for the consumer to tailor the grade of humidification or miniaturization of the tobacco to his or her specific taste or need. It is conceivable, that the surface of the moisture adjusting device is embossed with lettering, a logo and/or use-instructions. This will improve the consumer experience with the moisture ad justing device. According to another embodiment, the liquid storage has at least one outlet being constructed as a valve, through which the liquid is releasable from the inside of the liquid storage to its outside. This valve-construction of the liquid storage may be used in combination with the em bodiment of the natural material or without this embodiment. The valve-construction is advan tageous, as the valve will prevent an unwanted release of the liquid from the liquid storage into the liquid diffusor. This enables, similar to the wetting process of the afore mentioned embod iment, the consumer to start the humidifying process on demand only. This is of special im portance, if the moisture adjusting device, in other words the liquid container, is already placed in the then sealed packaging during the packaging process of the manufacturing process, as during this packaging process the package is sealed. If the humidification process is already started in the sealed package, this could result in unwanted micro-bacterial growth in the sealed package, which can be prevented by the valve-construction of the liquid storage.

According to another embodiment, the liquid storage has a cylindrical shape with the outlet being located on one of the cylinder’s base areas. With the cylindrical shape, the liquid storage can be easily incorporated into the overall cylindrical shape of a smoking article of the moisture adjusting device, in other words the liquid container. By locating the outlet on one of the cylin der’s base area, the liquid can leave the liquid storage, having a cylindrical shape, parallel to a longitudinal direction of the cylindrical shape. This simplifies the arrangement of all compo nents, i.e. liquid storage and liquid diffusor, in a cylindrical shape of a smoking article.

According to another embodiment, the diffusor is positioned directly next to the outlet of the liquid storage, wherein the liquid is absorbable into the liquid diffusor when exiting the liquid storage. This embodiment ensures an easy and spill-free transfer of the liquid from the liquid storage to the liquid diffusor.

According to another embodiment, the liquid storage is a squeezable capsule. By squeezing the capsule, the therein contained liquid can exit the capsule through the outlet, preferably constructed as a valve opening on application of a pressure gradient. To transfer the liquid from the liquid storage (capsule) to the liquid diffusor, the consumer has to squeeze the cap sule. This is advantageous, as the squeezing process is a very easy and convenient way for the consumer to start the humidification process on demand. Also the danger of accidentally starting the humidification process is reduced, as squeezing of a capsule is unlikely to happen by accident in a standard crush-proof cigarette box. This risk is even further reduced, because the moisture adjusting device, in other words the liquid container, will have to be squeezed exactly at the position of the squeezable capsule and not in a hydrostatic manner over the whole surface of the moisture adjusting device.

According to another embodiment, the liquid is releasable from the liquid storage by application of a force directed to the inner volume of the liquid storage. The application of the force creates a pressure gradient, which is necessary to open the valve outlet of the liquid storage. By di recting a force to the inner volume of the liquid storage, the pressure in the inner volume of the liquid storage is increased so that a pressure gradient between the inner volume and the area surrounding the liquid storage is created. The application direction of the force to the inner volume of the liquid storage is advantageous, as such a force direction can be easily applied by the consumer by holding the moisture adjusting device, in other words the liquid container, between index finger and thumb of one hand and moving these two fingers towards each other in a pressing movement. This movement is also known as a pinch grip.

According to another embodiment, the moisture adjusting device, in other words the liquid container, comprises two or more liquid storages each containing a liquid wherein the liquids are individually releasable into the at least one diffusor. With two or more liquid storages, two or more humidification processes are possible with only one moisture adjusting device. By simultaneously starting two or more humidification processes, the amount of humidifying agent released into the surrounding of the moisture adjusting device can be increased. This enables the consumer to individualize the amount of humidification. It is also possible for the consumer to release the liquid from the two or more liquid storages individually after each other. In this way, the overall duration of the humidifying process is prolonged. As a result, the moisture content of the smoking articles can be kept at the desired level for a longer time period. As an example, the consumer may release the liquid of one liquid storage per day, or alternatively every other day, during the consumption of all smoking articles of one smoking articles pack age after a first opening of the package. The release frequency can be adapted by the con sumer depending on the desired miniaturization level and/or the individual time period until a beforehand full package of smoking articles is fully emptied by the consumer. Every moisture adjusting device may be associated with an individual liquid diffusor to which the liquid of the respective moisture adjusting device may be transferred. It may also be the case that all mois ture adjusting devices are associated with only one liquid diffusor to which the liquids of the moisture adjusting devices are transferred simultaneously or after another. According to another embodiment, the moisture adjusting device, in other words the liquid container, further comprises a wrapping, which is at least in part permeable for the liquid. The wrapping is arranged on the outer surface of the moisture adjusting device. The wrapping wraps the liquid storage and the liquid diffusor in a wrapping layer. The at least in part perme able wrapping allows the liquid to diffuse into the surrounding of the moisture adjusting device from the liquid diffusor. The wrapping also serves the purpose of prohibiting a wetting of the smoking articles arranged directly to the moisture adjusting device. In particular, the wrapping may exhibit a lower liquid transfer rate compared to the transfer rate of the liquid from the liquid diffusor to the surrounding of the moisture adjusting device. By introducing the additional ma terial layer of the wrapping between liquid diffusor and adjacently arranged smoking articles, the liquid transport of the liquid from the liquid diffusor is controlled and a wetting of the smoking articles is prohibited. The wrapping can consist of paper, coated paper or embossed paper or any other sheet material suitable to serve as a wrapping and being at least in part permeable for the liquid. The wrapping itself or its coating may have cut outs or perforations, which can be adjusted in number or size, to control the liquid transfer rate.

According to another embodiment, the liquid storages and the liquid diffusors are arranged alternately after one another along the longitudinal cylindrical axis of the moisture adjusting device, in other words the liquid container. Preferably, the number of liquid storages and num ber of liquid diffusors are equal. Preferably, all liquid storages are arranged in the same man ner, so that the outlets of the liquid storages are all directed into the same direction of the longitudinal axis of the cylindrical shape of the moisture adjusting device. Preferably, every liquid diffusor is arranged on the longitudinal axis next to a moisture adjusting device on the side of the moisture adjusting device, where its outlet is located. In other words, the arrange ment of moisture adjusting devices and liquid diffusors with an outlet of each moisture adjusting device located exemplarily on the left and an exemplarily horizontally arranged longitudinal axis of the cylindrical shape preferably is as follows from left to right: first liquid diffusor, first moisture adjusting device, second liquid diffusor, second moisture adjusting device, ... , last liquid diffusor, last moisture adjusting device. This arrangement allows for liquid storages being placed spaced apart from each other along the longitudinal axis of the cylindrical shape. This results in reasonably spaced locations, where the moisture adjusting device is squeezable by the consumer to individually release liquid from a moisture adjusting device. This prevents unwanted release of liquid from a directly adjacent moisture adjusting device, when one mois ture adjusting device is squeezed. This arrangement is also advantageous, as it makes the realization of the cylindrical shape particularly easy, because all parts of the moisture adjusting device are arranged after another on the longitudinal axis of the cylindrical shape.

According to another embodiment, the liquid is a moisturizing liquid and/or a liquid flavor. Pref erably, the liquid is water based but any other liquid suitable for moisturizing tobacco may be used. A water-based liquid has the advantage of offering a natural way of moisturization. Fur thermore, it is cheap and simple to manufacture. The liquid may also contain liquid flavor sub stances. A liquid to jointly moisturize and flavor the tobacco can be advantageous, as only one action by the consumer is needed to achieve two effects (miniaturization and flavoring), which is more convenient for the consumer. If the moisture adjusting device, in other words the liquid container, contains more than one liquid storage, one or more moisture adjusting device may contain different liquids as the other moisture adjusting devices. For example, one moisture adjusting device could contain a moisturizing liquid and another moisture adjusting device could contain a moisturizing liquid with a first flavor and another moisture adjusting device could contain a moisturizing liquid with a second flavor and so on. The content of the respective moisture adjusting device may then be indicated on the wrapping by a printed indication and/or printed pictogram at the respective squeezing position as explained below. With the different liquids (moisturizing and/or flavoring) a more individualized consumer experience is enabled.

According to another embodiment, the liquid diffusor consists of a porous material. The porous material is able to first absorb the liquid, when released from the moisture adjusting device, in other words the liquid container, and after that slowly diffuses the liquid into the surrounding of the moisture adjusting device. The diffusion of the liquid is preferably accompanied by a change from a liquid to a vapor state of the liquid. The diffusion of the liquid in the surrounding of the moisture adjusting device is preferably realized by the process of vaporescence. The porous material offers the needed high surface area for the vaporescence. Therefore, the po rous material advantageously promotes the diffusion of the liquid. By using porous materials with different pore sizes, the vaporization rate can be influenced. The possibility of easily influ encing the vaporization rate denotes another advantage of this embodiment.

According to another embodiment, the liquid diffusor is a cigarette filter rod part. Using a filter rod part as a liquid diffusor is highly advantageous, as they are easily available, low in cost compared to a specifically for this purpose designed new material and compatible with smoking article production sites and technology. Also the cylindrical shape of a smoking article can easily be resembled by using a filter rod part as used in smoking articles, in particular ciga rettes.

According to another embodiment, the wrapping comprises printed indications. Preferably, the printed indications are placed on the wrapping directly at the position of a liquid storage. Pref erably, the printed indication is placed at the position, at which the liquid storage has to be squeezed to release the contained liquid. Printed indications are a very easy an intuitive way to communicate use instructions and/or any other information to the consumer. Preferably, the used ink for the printed indication is insoluble with regard to the liquid of the moisture adjusting device, in other words the liquid container. This prohibits unwanted transfer of the ink to nearby smoking articles and/or any smearing of the printed indications to maintain the readability of the printed indications. Preferably, the used ink is water-insoluble if the liquid is a water-based liquid.

The objective is also reached by a method for diffusing a liquid in a smoking articles package with a moisture adjusting device, in other words the liquid container, wherein the moisture adjusting device comprises at least one liquid, at least one liquid storage, in which the liquid is storable, and at least one liquid diffusor, which releases the liquid at a controllable rate into the surrounding of the moisture adjusting device, wherein the liquid is transferrable from the liquid storage to the liquid diffusor, wherein the moisture adjusting device is replaceably insertable into a smoking articles package containing at least one smoking article and has a cylindrical shape of a smoking article, comprising the steps:

(a) Applying a force on the liquid storage directed to the inner volume of the liquid storage, which releases the liquid from the liquid storage and transfers it to the liquid diffusor;

(b) Inserting the moisture adjusting device into a smoking articles package;

(c) Releasing the liquid from the liquid diffusor into the surrounding of the moisture adjusting device.

Step (a) denotes the initial step to start the moisturization process of the moisture adjusting device. Without this initial step, the moisture adjusting device remains in its inactivated state in which no liquid is diffused into the surrounding of the smoking article. In this inactivated state, the moisture adjusting device can be already stored in the smoking articles package without moisturization of the therein contained smoking articles. This is highly advantageous, as the moisture adjusting device may then already be inserted into the smoking articles pack age during the packaging process at the production site, including a sealing of the packaging. ln the inactivated state, the moisture adjusting device can be stored in the sealed smoking article packaging without over-moisturizing the smoking articles, which could lead to unwanted microbial or vermin growth. The method may also comprise the step“Taking the moisture ad justing device out of the smoking articles package” prior to step (a). Especially, if the moisture adjusting device is already placed in the sealed smoking articles package. If the moisture ad justing device is delivered separately from the smoking articles package to the consumer, the described method preferably starts directly with the step (a).

By the application of the force in the liquid storage, the liquid is transferred from the liquid storage to the liquid diffusor. The pressure, originating from the force application, opens the outlet of the liquid storage, which preferably is constructed as a valve, so the liquid can exit the liquid storage. When exiting the liquid storage, the liquid is preferably directly absorbed by the liquid diffusor. At this point, when the liquid has been transferred from the liquid storage to the liquid diffusor, the moisture adjusting device is in its activated state. Activated state in this context means that a diffusion of the liquid into the surrounding of the moisture adjusting de vice, i.e. the moisturization process, is possible. In contrast to that, the inactivated state de notes a state in which a diffusion of the liquid into the surrounding of the moisture adjusting device, i.e. the moisturization process, is not possible. This first transfer of liquid from liquid storage into liquid diffusor may also be referred to as the activation process.

Inserting, or reinserting if the inactivated moisture adjusting device was already placed in the smoking articles package in its inactivated state, ensures that the liquid will be diffused adja cent to the smoking articles. The diffused/evaporated liquid can thus be transferred in a second transfer from the moisture adjusting device to the smoking articles, by which the latter ones are moisturized.

The inserted or reinserted and activated moisture adjusting device comprises at least one emptied liquid storage and at least one liquid diffusor, which absorbed the liquid from the emp tied liquid storage. Preferably, the smoking articles package is closed after inserting or rein serting the activated moisture adjusting device into the smoking articles package. This ensures an at least in part separated atmosphere within the smoking articles package, or an atmos phere within the smoking articles package, which exhibits at least limited fluidic exchange with an outer atmosphere around the smoking articles package. This enables the moisture adjust ing device, by evaporating liquid from the liquid diffusor to the surrounding of the moisture adjusting device, to create an atmosphere of higher humidity inside the smoking articles pack age compared to the atmosphere outside of the smoking articles package. This atmosphere of higher humidity inside the smoking articles package will then moisturize the smoking article contained in the smoking articles package.

If the moisture adjusting device comprises more than one liquid storage, the described method can be repeated as often as liquid containing liquid storages are remaining to restart the moisturization process. After transferring the liquid from the liquid storage to the liquid diffusor and the complete evaporation of the liquid from the liquid diffusor into the surrounding of the moisture adjusting device, the moisture adjusting device re-enters the inactive state. By re peating the described method, the moisture adjusting device can again be activated. There fore, multiple consecutive moisturization processes are possible with one moisture adjusting device comprising multiple liquid storages.

An alternative method for moisture adjusting devices, in other words the liquid containers, completely consisting of a natural material as wood or expanded clay or other natural materi als, which may be applied independently from the afore mentioned method and with which the objective is also reached, is as follows: A method for diffusing a liquid in a smoking articles package with a moisture adjusting device, at least one liquid storage, in which a liquid is stor able and at least one liquid diffusor, which releases the liquid at a controllable rate into the surrounding of the moisture adjusting device, wherein the liquid is transferrable from the liquid storage to the liquid diffusor, wherein the moisture adjusting device is replaceably insertable into a smoking articles package containing at least one smoking article and has a cylindrical shape of a smoking article, comprising the steps:

(d) Wetting the moisture adjusting device, wherein the liquid is absorbed in the liquid storage;

(e) Inserting the moisture adjusting device into a smoking articles package;

(f) Gradual transfer of the liquid from the liquid storage to the liquid diffusor with simultaneous release of the liquid from the liquid diffusor into the surrounding of the moisture adjusting device.

In this embodiment, the activation is again carried out by the consumer, but in this case by wetting the moisture adjusting device. Preferably, the moisture adjusting device is wetted with water but the moisture adjusting device may also be wetted with a specific liquid for moisturi zation and/or flavoring. Before the wetting, the moisture adjusting device is in an inactivated state, in which no moisturization/humidification of smoking articles takes place, and after the wetting, the moisture adjusting device is in an activated state, in which a moisturization/hu- midification of smoking articles takes place.

Due to the porosity of natural materials as wood or expanded clay, the material itself exhibits water-storing properties. This means, when wetted by the consumer in step (d), the natural material will absorb the liquid, preferably water, and store it in its volume, being the liquid stor age. A humidity gradient between the moisture adjusting device and the surrounding atmos phere together with the porosity of the natural material will cause the liquid to move from the volume of the moisture adjusting device to its surface in step (f), where it is diffused into the surrounding atmosphere, which also takes place in step (f). Therefore, the surface of the nat ural material serves as the liquid diffusor. As the moisture adjusting device according to this embodiment is reusable an infinite number of humidification cycles, the method may be re peated as desired by the consumer. The consumer can individually tailor the time of the mois turizing process by deciding when to wet the moisture adjusting device. Also, the amount of liquid with which the natural material is wetted, can be modified by the consumer. Therefore, it is also possible for the consumer to tailor the grade of humidification or miniaturization of the tobacco to his or her specific taste or need.

As the moisture adjusting device may already be inserted into the smoking articles package during the packaging process at the production site, including a sealing of the packaging, or because the moisture adjusting device was already used beforehand, the method may also comprise the step“Taking the moisture adjusting device out of the smoking articles package” prior to step (d).

Further advantages, objectives and features of the present invention will be described, by way of example only, in the following description with reference to the appended figures. In the figures, like components in different embodiments can exhibit the same reference symbols. The figures show:

Fig. 1 a general view of a smoking articles package 10 with the moisture adjusting device 1 ;

Fig. 2a a perspective view of the moisture adjusting device 1 together with a smoking article 12;

Fig. 2b a front view of the moisture adjusting device 1 and the smoking article 12 of Fig.

2a; Fig. 3a a general perspective view of the moisture adjusting device 1 aligned with a second perspective schematic view of the moisture adjusting device 1 , showing its interior;

Fig. 3b a detailed perspective view of one liquid storage 4 and one liquid diffusor 6;

Fig. 4a a front view of the moisture adjusting device 1 aligned together with a sectional view of the moisture adjusting device 1 , vertically sectioned along the longitudi nal axis L;

Fig. 4b a detailed sectional view of one liquid storage 4 and one liquid diffusor 6, verti cally sectioned along the longitudinal axis L;

Fig. 5a a perspective view of the moisture adjusting device 1 , according to another em bodiment;

Fig. 5b a sectional view of the moisture adjusting device 1 of Fig. 5a, horizontally sec tioned along plane A;

Fig. 5c a sectional view of the moisture adjusting device 1 of Fig. 5a, vertically sectioned along plane B;

Fig. 1 shows a general view of a smoking articles package 10 with the moisture adjusting device 1 , in other words the liquid container. The smoking articles package 10 is carried out as a standard cigarette packaging. The standard cigarette packaging comprises a cuboid shape having a front side 10a, a back side 10b, two side faces 10c, a bottom face 10d, a reclosable lid 10e, hingedly connected to the top of the back face 10b and an opening 11 through which the smoking articles 12 contained in the standard cigarette package 10 are accessible, if the hingedly connected lid 10e is open. The moisture adjusting device 1 is re placeably insertable into the smoking articles package. Replaceably insertable means, that the moisture adjusting device 1 can be inserted into the smoking articles package 10, for example slid between smoking articles along an insertion direction 15a and can be extracted from the smoking articles package 10 in an extraction direction 15b.

When contained in the smoking articles package 10, the moisture adjusting device 1 is ar ranged parallel to the smoking articles 12 contained in the smoking articles package 10. The moisture adjusting device 1 may be arranged in direct contact to the smoking articles 12 or arranged in their surrounding area without having direct contact. The moisture adjusting device 1 may comprise printed indications 20. The printed indications 20 may indicate the place to pressurise the moisture adjusting device 1 , or may indicate the type of released liquid 2, or a specific suggested time interval to pressurise the moisture adjusting device 1 again, or any other feasible printed indication time. After pressing the moisture adjusting device 1 at the place of the printed indication 20 and reinserting the moisture adjusting device 1 into the smok ing articles package 10 in insertion direction 15a, the hingedly connected lid 10e of the smoking articles package 10 is closed, so that the interior area of the smoking articles package 10 is separated from the outer atmosphere at least in part.

Fig. 2 a shows a perspective view of the moisture adjusting device 1 , in other words the liquid container, together with a smoking article 12 arranged parallel thereto; i.e. with their respective longitudinal axes L extending parallel to each other. The moisture adjusting device 1 and the smoking article 12 both have a cylindrical shape. Preferably, the cylindrical shape of the mois ture adjusting device 1 and the smoking article 12 is the substantially the same shape. The cylindrical shape of the moisture adjusting device 1 and the smoking article 12 comprises two base planes 1a, which are parallel to each other having a circular shape, and a lateral area 1 b circumferentially extending around a longer longitudinal axis L, which protrudes from the first base plane 1a to the second base plane 1 a through the centre of the base areas 1a.

The printed indications 20 show the place where the moisture adjusting device 1 has to be pressurised to release the liquid 2. The force 18 to pressurise the moisture adjusting device 1 is exemplarily shown with arrows in fig. 2a. The force 18 needs to be applied circumferentially at least in two opposing directions. Nevertheless, more than two opposing directions are pos sible. The force 18 is applied to the moisture adjusting device 1 in a direction perpendicular to its longitudinal axis L, i.e. any radially oriented direction to the cylindrical outer surface of the moisture adjusting device 1.

The smoking article 12 is shown in fig. 2a with a filter segment 21 and a tobacco rod segment 22 for better visibility. The moisture adjusting device 1 and the smoking article 12 have the exact same cylindrical shape. This means, that the moisture adjusting device 1 and the smok ing article 12 have the same length. Preferably, the moisture adjusting device 1 and the smok ing article 12 have the same diameter. This very same cylindrical shape of moisture adjusting device 1 and smoking article 12 ensures that the moisture adjusting device 1 can be placed in a smoking articles package 10 instead of a smoking article 12.

Fig. 2b shows a front view of the moisture adjusting device 1 , in other words the liquid con tainer, in the smoking article 12 of fig. 2a. In this view, it is easily accessible that the moisture adjusting device 1 and the smoking article 1 have the same length along the longitudinal di rection L. The force 18 is directed to the inner volume 3 of the moisture adjusting device 1. For better visibility, the force 18 directed into the plane of the drawing and the force protruding out of the plane of the drawing towards the viewer is not shown. Nevertheless, the force 18 can be applied circumferentially and directed to the inner volume 3 of the moisture adjusting device 1 at the position of the printed indication 20 to the moisture adjusting device 1. Preferably, the force 18 is applied in at least to each other opposing directions. The application of the force 18 in two opposing directions is exemplarily shown in fig. 2b with the two arrows symbolizing the force 18, which refer to the very same printed indication 20.

Figures 3a-b and 4a-b show the moisture adjusting device 1 , in other words the liquid con tainer, in full detail. The figures 3a and 4a show the outer shape of the moisture adjusting device 1 together with the interior of the moisture adjusting device 1 in a perspective view and a sectional view below. Along the longitudinal axis L, liquid diffusors 6 are alternately arranged with liquid storages 4. The number of liquid storages 4 determines the number of humidification cycles which are executable with the moisture adjusting device 1. The moisture adjusting de vice 1 thus forms a liquid container having controllable liquid release capabilities by a user, in order to moisturize the environment around the device 1 , such as a cigarette package. Figure 3c and 4c show a humidification unit 5 consisting out of one liquid storage 4 and one liquid diffusor 6. The liquid storage 4 contains the liquid 2. For better visibility, the liquid 2 is shown as not completely filling the liquid storage 4. Nevertheless, the liquid storage 4 may be com pletely filled with the liquid 2. The moisture adjusting device 4 has a cylindrical shape. The diameter of the liquid storage 4 is slightly smaller than the diameter of the fully assembled moisture adjusting device 1 , so the liquid storage 4 can be fitted inside the moisture adjusting device 1. The cylindrical shape of the liquid storage 4 comprises two circular base areas 4a and 4b and a lateral area 4c. The first base area 4a is slightly smaller in diameter than the second base area 4b. The different diameter of the two base areas 4a and 4b angles the lateral area 4c slightly, giving the lateral area 4b a tapered shape in the direction of the smaller base area 4a. This results in an overall shape of the liquid storage 4 of a frustum of a cone.

Each liquid storage 4 comprises a single outlet 14 located on one of the base areas 4a, 4b. Preferably, the outlet 14 is located on the smaller base area 4a. The other base area 4b com prises no outlet, making the liquid storage 4 directional. The outlet 14 can be constructed as a valve, or can be constructed as a predetermined breaking point, which breaks or ruptures if the liquid storage 4 is pressurized with a force 18. The force 18 is directed to the inner volume 13 of the liquid storage 4.

The liquid diffusor 6 has a cylindrical shape. The liquid diffusor 6 comprises two base areas 6a and a lateral area 6b. Preferably, the liquid diffusor 6 has a slightly smaller diameter than the completely assembled moisture adjusting device 1 , so it can be fitted inside the moisture ad justing device 1. Preferably, the liquid diffusor 6 is a cigarette filter rod. The lateral area 6b preferably is in direct contact with the wrapping 7 enabling a better transfer of the liquid 2 from the liquid diffusor 6 to the surrounding 8 of the moisture adjusting device 1.

As depicted in figure 3b and 4b, the liquid diffusor is arranged in direct contact with the liquid storage. In particular, the base area 4a of the liquid storage 4, which comprises the outlet 14, lies against one of the base area 6a of the liquid diffusor 6. As a consequence, the liquid 2 is directly injected from the outlet 14 into the liquid diffusor 6, when the liquid storage 4 is pres surized. In other words, the two cylindrical shapes of liquid storage 4 and liquid diffusor 6 are arranged next to each other with their respective longitudinal cylinder axes being congruent.

Apart from the slightly tapered shape of the liquid storage 4, the two mainly cylindrical shapes of liquid storage 4 and liquid diffusor together form a longer cylindrical shape of the humidifi cation unit 5 having a joint longitudinal axis L. In the moisture adjusting device 1 , the desired number of humidification units 5 is placed next to each other along the longitudinal axis L. In particular, the base area 4b of the first humidification unit 5a is arranged facing against the base area 6a of the second humidification unit 5b. Analogously, the third humidification unit 5c, with its base area 4b, is arranged facing against the base area 4b of the second humidifi cation unit 5b.

The base areas 4b and 6a of adjacent humidification units 5 can be in direct contact, or can be slightly distanced from each other.

In this arrangement, the liquid diffusors 6 separate the liquid storages 4 from each other along the longitudinal axis L by distance 9. This is beneficial, as the locations, where the moisture adjusting device 1 has to be pressurized are also separated from each other by distance 9. This prevents accidental pressurization of neighbouring liquid storages 4. The printed indications 20 are printed on the wrapping 7. Preferably, the position of the printed indications 20 on the wrapping 7 is correlated with the position of the liquid storages 4 in the moisture adjusting device 1 , so that the liquid storage 4 is placed directly under the printed indication 20 viewed in a radial direction pointing inward into the moisture adjusting device. This is shown in figures 3a and 4a with the vertical dashed lines 19, which indicate the same position in reference to the longitudinal axis L for the upper view, showing the outer surface of the moisture adjusting device 1 and the lower view, showing the interior of the moisture adjust ing device 1. In consequence, the printed indications 20 are separated from each other by the same distance 9 as the liquid storages 4 in reference to the longitudinal axis L. In other words, the force 18 is directed to the inner volume 3 of the moisture adjusting device 1 and also to the inner volume 13 of the liquid storage 4.

The force 18 is applied from at least two opposing directions to the lateral area 1 b of the mois ture adjusting device 1 at a position where it is also directed towards the inner volume 13 of the liquid storage 4. With the force 18, the lateral area 4c of the liquid storage 4 is moved inwards so the inner volume 13 of the liquid storage 4 is decreased. This decrease in inner volume 13 increases the pressure inside the liquid storage 4, which opens the outlet 14. Through the now opened outlet 14, the liquid 2 is pressed from the liquid storage 4 to the liquid diffusor 6.

Depending on the specific embodiment of the liquid storage 4, it may be advantageous to apply the force 18 on a specific position on the liquid storage 4 in reference to the longitudinal axis L to preferably achieve an easy opening of the outlet 14 and a preferably complete draining of the liquid 2 from the liquid storage 4 and preferably a complete transfer of the liquid 2 from the liquid storage 4 to the liquid diffusor 6. Thus, the printed indications 20 are preferably posi tioned on the wrapping directly at the optimal position for the force 18 application referring to the longitudinal axis L.

Figures 5a, 5b and 5c show a different embodiment of the moisture adjusting device 1 , in other words the liquid container, which exists independently from the previously described embodi ments. Whereas the overall arrangement of parts in the moisture adjusting device 1 and the overall shape of the moisture adjusting device 1 is different, the liquid storage 4, the liquid 2, the liquid diffusor 6 and their way of functioning is the same as described in the previous em bodiments. This current embodiment is preferably used for smoking articles 12 comprising loose tobacco, which is mainly distributed in tin-shaped compartments. With such tin-shaped compartments, a cylindrical shape of the moisture adjusting device 1 may also be used, but the current embodiment is preferred. In this embodiment the moisture adjusting device 1 com prises at least one liquid 2, at least one liquid storage 4, in which the liquid 2 is storable, and at least one liquid diffusor 6, which releases the liquid 2 at a controllable rate into the surround ing 8 of the moisture adjusting device 1 , wherein the liquid 2 is transferrable from the liquid storage 4 to the liquid diffusor 6, wherein the moisture adjusting device 1 is replaceably insert- able into a smoking articles package 10 containing at least one smoking article 12, wherein this embodiment is characterized in that, the moisture adjusting device 1 comprises at least two moisture adjusting device 4 which are arranged around a liquid diffusor 6 in one plane, wherein a liquid 2 is individually releasable from the liquid storages 4 into one joint liquid diffu sor 6.

As this embodiment comprises a different overall arrangement but of the same components as the previously described embodiments, the previously described embodiments referring to these components (liquid 2, liquid storage 4, liquid diffusor 6, and wrapping 7) and their re spective arrangement are also applicable to this embodiment.

Figure 5a shows the overall shape of this current embodiment. The moisture adjusting device 1 according to this embodiment comprises a disk-shape. A disk-shape is also a cylindrical shape, who’s extent along longitudinal axis L is shorter than its diameter in its radial direction. The surface of the moisture adjusting device 1 also comprises two base areas 1a and a lateral area 1 b. In this embodiment, the printed indications 20 are arranged on at least one of the base areas 1 a.

Fig. 5a also shows the section planes A and B along which the views in figs. 5b (along A) and 5c (along B) are sectioned. Fig. 5b shows the sectional view along A in a top view. In the center 17 of the disk-shape the liquid diffusor 6 is arranged. Four liquid storages 4 are arranged around the liquid diffusor 6 in plane A. The openings 14 of the liquid storages 4 are arranged in direct contact with the liquid diffusor 6. Preferably, the shape of the liquid diffusor 6 com prises the same number of side faces 6c in one plane as the number of liquid storages 4 which are arranged around the liquid diffusor 6 in this plane. Preferably, the liquid diffusor 6 has a square shape with 4 side faces 6c in plane A, as four liquid storages 4 are arranged around the liquid diffusor 6 in plane A. Every liquid storage 4 is arranged with its base area 4a, com prising the outlet 14, facing one side face 6c of the liquid diffusor 6. This arrangement makes it possible for the liquid 2 to be directly transferred into the liquid diffusor 6 when exiting the outlet 14 of the respective liquid storage 4.

The force 18 is preferably directed parallel to the longitudinal axis L. Preferably, the force 18 is directed to the inner volume 3 of the moisture adjusting device 1. Preferably, the moisture adjusting device 1 is pressurized on both base areas 1 a in direction to the inner volume 3 of the moisture adjusting device 1. This means, that the force 18 applied to one base area 1a is directed opposite to the force 18 applied to the other base area 1 a.

The force 18 is directed to the inner volume 13 of the liquid storage 4. This implies, that the force 18 is applied to the outer surface of the moisture adjusting device 1 at a position directly at one of the liquid storages 4. In other words, the force 18 is directed to the inner volume 3 of the moisture adjusting device 1 and also to the inner volume 13 of the liquid storage 4. Fig. 5b show the force 18 as directed into the paper plane. For clarity reasons, the force 18 directed in the opposing direction (i.e. out of the paper plane towards the viewer) is not shown.

Figure 5c shows a sectional view of the current embodiment sectioned along plane B shown in fig. 5a. It is directly evident that the base area 4a, comprising the outlet 14, of the liquid storage 4 are arranged each facing one side face 6c of the liquid diffusor 6. The force 18 is applied from two opposing directions to each of the base areas 1a of the moisture adjusting device 1 at a position where it is also directed towards the inner volume 13 of the liquid storage 4. With the force 18, the lateral area 4c of the liquid storage 4 is moved inwards so the inner volume 13 of the liquid storage 4 is decreased. This decrease in inner volume 13 increases the pressure inside the liquid storage 4, which opens the outlet 14. Through the now opened outlet 14, the liquid 2 is pressed from the liquid storage 4 to the liquid diffusor 6.

The liquid 2, after pressurization of the liquid storage 4 contained in the liquid diffusor 6, can now evaporate from the liquid diffusor 6, preferably enhanced through its porous structure. Preferably, the liquid 2 evaporated from the upper and lower face 6d of the liquid diffusor 6. At the upper and lower face 6d preferably no other liquid storages 4 are arranged. The upper and lower face 6c preferably is in direct contact with the wrapping 7 enabling a better transfer of the liquid 2 from the liquid diffusor 6 to the surrounding 8 of the moisture adjusting device 1. List of reference symbols

1 moisture adjusting device

1a base area

1 b lateral area

2 liquid

3 inner volume of moisture adjusting device

4 liquid storage

4a base area of liquid storage

4b base area of liquid storage

4c lateral area of liquid storage

5 unit

6 liquid diffusor

6a base area of liquid diffusor

6b lateral area of liquid diffusor

6c side face of liquid diffusor

6d upper and lower face of liquid diffusor

7 wrapping

8 surrounding

9 distance

10 Smoking article packaging

10a front side

10b back side

10c side face

10d bottom face

10e lid

11 Opening

12 Smoking article

13 Inner volume of the liquid storage

14 Opening

15a insertion direction

15b extraction direction

16 Cylinder base area 17 center

18 Force

19 Dashed lines

20 Printed indication 21 Filter

22 T obacco rod

A sectional plane

B sectional plane

L Longitudinal axis

Claims

1. Moisture adjusting device (1), comprising at least one liquid storage (4), in which at least one liquid (2), is stored, and at least one liquid diffusor (6), which releases the liquid (2) at a controllable rate into the surrounding (8) of the moisture adjusting device (1), wherein the liquid (2) is transferrable from the liquid storage (4) to the liquid diffusor (6) upon pressurization of the liquid storage (4) by application of a force (18) directed to the inner volume (13) of the liquid storage (4), wherein the moisture adjusting device (1) is replaceably insertable into a smoking articles package (10) containing at least one smoking article (12) characterized in that,

the liquid storage (4) has a cylindrical shape having opposite base areas (16) and com prises at least one outlet (14) located on one of the cylinder’s base areas (16), through which the liquid (2) is releasable from the inside of the liquid storage (4) to its outside and in that

the liquid diffusor (6) is positioned directly next to the outlet (14) of the liquid storage (4), wherein the liquid (2) is absorbable into the liquid diffusor (6) when exiting the liquid storage (4).

2. Moisture adjusting device (1) according to claim 1 ,

characterized in that,

the moisture adjusting device (1) and/or liquid storage (4) and/or liquid diffusor (6) con sist of a natural material.

3. Moisture adjusting device (1) according to claim 1 ,

characterized in that,

the at least one outlet (14) is constructed as a valve, through which the liquid (2) is releasable from the inside of the liquid storage (4) to its outside.

4. Moisture adjusting device (1) according to any of claims 1-3,

characterized in that,

the liquid storage (4) is a squeezable capsule.

5. Moisture adjusting device (1) according to any preceding claim,

characterized in that,

the moisture adjusting device (1) comprises two or more liquid storages (4) each con taining a liquid (2) wherein the liquids (2) are individually releasable into the at least one diffusor (6).

6. Moisture adjusting device (1) according to any preceding claim,

characterized in that,

the moisture adjusting device (1) further comprises a wrapping (7), which is at least in part permeable for the liquid (2).

7. Moisture adjusting device (1) according to any preceding claim,

characterized in that,

the liquid storages (4) and the liquid diffusors (6) are arranged alternately after one another along the longitudinal cylindrical axis (L) of the moisture adjusting device (1) .

8. Moisture adjusting device (1) according to any preceding claim,

characterized in that,

the liquid (2) is a moisturizing liquid and/or a liquid flavor.

9. Moisture adjusting device (1) according to any preceding claim,

characterized in that,

the liquid diffusor (6) consists of a porous material.

10. Moisture adjusting device according to any preceding claim,

characterized in that,

the liquid diffusor (6) is a cigarette filter rod part.

11. Moisture adjusting device according to any preceding claim,

characterized in that,

the wrapping (7) comprises printed indications (20).

12. Moisture adjusting device according to any preceding claims,

Characterized in that,

it has a cylindrical shape of a smoking article.

13. Method for diffusing a liquid (2) in a smoking articles package (10) with a moisture adjusting device (1) according to any one of claims 1-12, wherein the moisture adjust ing device (1) is replaceably insertable into a smoking articles package (10) containing at least one smoking article (12) and has a cylindrical shape of a smoking article (12), comprising the steps:

(a) Applying a force (18) on the liquid storage (4) directed to the inner volume (13) of the liquid storage (4), which releases the liquid (2) from the liquid storage (4) and transfers it to the liquid diffusor (6);

(b) Inserting the moisture adjusting device (1) into a smoking articles package (10);

(c) Releasing the liquid (2) from the liquid diffusor (6) into the surrounding (8) of the moisture adjusting device (1).