[EN] An apparatus for generating an aerosol and/or a vapour in an inhaler device includes a reservoir for storing a supply of a liquid; a heating system fluidly connected with the reservoir for receiving the liquid and configured to heat the liquid to generate the aerosol and/or vapor therefrom; a pumping system configured to pump the liquid from the reservoir to the heating system; and a valve arrangement for regulating flow from the pumping system to the heating system, the valve arrangement having at least one valve which is configured to transition from a closed position to an open position for transmitting the liquid from the pumping system to the heating system. An inhaler device includes the apparatus, and a system includes an inhaler device and a peripheral electronic device. A method of generating an aerosol and/or a vapor in an inhaler device is also provided. [EN] 1. An apparatus for generating an aerosol and/or a vapor in an inhaler device, the apparatus comprising: a reservoir for storing a supply of a liquid;a heating system fluidly connected with the reservoir for receiving the liquid and configured to heat the liquid to generate the aerosol and/or the vapor therefrom;a pumping system configured to pump the liquid from the reservoir to the heating system; anda valve arrangement for regulating flow from the pumping system to the heating system, the valve arrangement having at least one valve which is configured to transition from a closed position to an open position for transmitting the liquid from the pumping system to the heating system.2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the at least one valve is located or operatively arranged between or interconnecting the pumping system and the heating system.3. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the at least one valve is actuated to transition from the closed position to the open position under fluid pressure generated by the pumping system.4. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the at least one valve is electrically actuated to transition from the closed to the open position.5. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the heating system is at least partially fluidly connected with the reservoir via a porous member.6. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the pumping system comprises a pump configured to convey the liquid from the reservoir to the heating system at a flow rate in the range of 0.1 ml/min to 0.2 ml/min.7. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the heating system is fluidly connected with the reservoir via a plurality of conduits, wherein the at least one valve comprises a plurality of valves, each of the valves being associated with a respective one of the conduits and being configured to transition from a closed position to an open position for transmitting the liquid to the heating system.8. The apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the heating system includes an elongate heating element, wherein the plurality of conduits are arranged to deliver the liquid to the heating system at different positions along a longitudinal axis of the heating element.9. The apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the pumping system comprises a plurality of pumps, wherein each conduit is associated with a respective one of the plurality of pumps; each of the pumps preferably being configured to operate in a cycle comprising a loading phase and a pumping phase, wherein the cycle of at least one of the pumps is configured to operate out-of-phase with the cycle of at least another one of the pumps.10. An apparatus for generating an aerosol and/or a vapor in an inhaler device, the apparatus comprising: a plurality of reservoirs, each of the reservoirs configured for storing a supply of a liquid;a heating system fluidly connected with the reservoirs and configured to heat the liquid from the reservoirs to generate the aerosol and/or the vapor therefrom;a pumping system comprising a plurality of pumps, each pump being associated with a respective one of the reservoirs and being configured to convey the liquid to the heating system;a mixing device for mixing the liquid pumped from the plurality of reservoirs, the mixing device being located between the plurality of pumps and the heating system; andcontrol circuitry for independently controlling the plurality of pumps, the control circuitry being adapted or configured to receive control signals input by a user for independently controlling the plurality of pumps.11. The apparatus according to claim 10, further comprising a user interface for providing the control signals to the control circuitry based on a user interaction with the user interface.12. An inhaler device, such as a personal vaporizer or e-cigarette, comprising the apparatus for generating an aerosol and/or a vapor from a liquid according to claim 1.13. A system for generating an aerosol and/or a vapor from a liquid, the system comprising: the inhaler device according to claim 12, anda peripheral electronic device configured to transmit control signals to the inhaler device.14. The system according to claim 13, further comprising a remote source, wherein the peripheral electronic device is configured to receive instructions from the remote source for generating control signals for independently controlling a plurality of pumps of the pumping system.15. A method of generating an aerosol and/or a vapor in an inhaler device, the method comprising: providing a supply of a liquid;pumping the liquid from the supply to a heating system;actuating at least one valve of a valve arrangement connected between the liquid supply and the heating system to transmit the liquid to the heating system; andheating the liquid via the heating system to generate the aerosol and/or the vapor from the liquid.16. A method of generating an aerosol and/or a vapor in an inhaler device, the method comprising: providing a plurality of reservoirs, each of the reservoirs configured for storing a supply of a liquid;providing a plurality of pumps, each pump being associated with a respective one of the plurality of reservoirs, for conveying liquid from the reservoirs to a heating system;independently controlling the plurality of pumps via control signals received from a peripheral electronic device;mixing the liquid conveyed from the plurality of reservoirs; andheating the mixed liquid via the heating system to generate the aerosol and/or the vapor from the liquid.17. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the reservoir is a volumetrically variable reservoir.18. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the at least one valve is fluidly connected to the heating system by a porous member.19. The apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the mixing device includes at least one agitator.20. The system according to claim 14, wherein the remote source is a remote server.


[EN] Improvements are provided in filters for use in smoking articles, including the use of randomly oriented discrete fibres. The improvements mainly relate to the loss of additive(s) in said filters and to the manufacture thereof. In one embodiment, a filter for a smoking article includes randomly oriented discrete fibres and at least one particulate additive, the at least one particulate additive being dispersed within the filter, wherein a value obtained by dividing a volume fraction of the at least one particulate additive by a volume fraction of the fibres is less than about 1100 percent. [EN] 1. A filter for a smoking article comprising randomly oriented discrete fibres and at least one particulate additive, the at least one particulate additive being dispersed within the filter, wherein a value obtained by dividing a volume fraction of the at least one particulate additive by a volume fraction of the fibres is less than about 1100 percent.2. The filter according to claim 1, wherein a range of a combined loading amount of the at least one particulate additive and the fibres is between 2.4 mg/mm and 19 mg/mm.3. The filter according to claim 2, wherein the range of the combined loading amount of the at least one particulate additive and the fibres is 11 mg/mm to 13 mg/mm.4. The filter according to claim 1, wherein the at least one particulate additive is provided in an amount of between 1 mg/mm and 13.5 mg/mm.5. The filter according to claim 4, wherein the amount of the at least one particulate additive is in the range of from 8 mg/mm up to 10 mg/mm.6. The filter according to claim 1, wherein the fibres are provided in an amount of between 1.4 mg/mm and 5.5 mg/mm.7. The filter according to claim 6, wherein the amount of fibres is in the range of from 3.0 mg/mm up to 3.5 mg/mm.8. The filter according to claim 1, wherein the at least one particulate additive comprises or is charcoal.9. The filter according to claim 1, wherein the fibres have a filament denier in the range of from 3.0 D to 12.0 D.10. The filter according to claim 1, wherein the filter has a cylindrical shape with a circumference of the cylinder being equal to or smaller than 26 mm.11. A smoking article comprising a filter according to claim 1.12. A method of producing a filter for a smoking article, comprising: adding randomly oriented fibres and at least one particulate additive to the filter, wherein the at least one particulate additive is dispersed in the filter,wherein a value obtained by dividing a volume fraction of the at least one particulate additive by a volume fraction of the fibres is less than about 1100 percent.


[EN] A kit is disclosed for supplying a cartridge of an inhaler article with liquid tobacco extract, the kit comprising an apparatus having means for extracting a liquid tobacco extract from a tobacco derived solid. The apparatus is adapted to deliver liquid tobacco extract to a cartridge and a cartridge adapted to receive liquid tobacco extract from the apparatus. An apparatus for supplying a liquid tobacco extract to a cartridge of an inhaler article is further disclosed. The apparatus has a housing, means for extracting a liquid tobacco extract from a tobacco derived solid and said housing is adapted to deliver liquid tobacco extract to a cartridge of an inhaler article. A related method of supplying a cartridge of an inhaler article with a liquid tobacco extract is further disclosed. [EN] 1. A kit for supplying a cartridge of an inhaler article with liquid tobacco extract, the kit comprising an apparatus having disposed therein a means for extracting a liquid tobacco extract from a tobacco derived solid, said apparatus adapted to deliver liquid tobacco extract to a cartridge, and a cartridge adapted to receive liquid tobacco extract from the apparatus.2. An apparatus for supplying a liquid tobacco extract to a cartridge of an inhaler article, the apparatus comprising a housing having disposed therein a means for extracting a liquid tobacco extract from a tobacco derived solid wherein said housing is adapted to deliver liquid tobacco extract to a cartridge of an inhaler article.3. The kit of claim 1, wherein said housing comprises tobacco derived solid and at least one solvent selected from the group consisting of water, propylene glycol, glycerol or mixtures thereof4. The kit of claim 3, wherein said tobacco derived solid is separate from the solvent or the tobacco derived solid and solvent is provided as a mixture.5. The kit of claim 4, wherein said means for extracting liquid tobacco extract from the tobacco derived solid is a mesh filter or selectively-permeable membrane.6. The kit of claim 5, wherein said housing is a deformable bottle having stored therein a mixture of tobacco derived solid and solvent, which bottle dispenses liquid tobacco extract to the cartridge when an external deformable force is applied to the housing.7. The kit of claim 4, wherein said housing is a metered dose spray bottle having a tobacco derived solid and solvent mixture and a propellant solvent stored therein wherein said tobacco derived solid and solvent mixture and propellant solvent are separated by the means for extracting the liquid tobacco extract.8. The kit of claim 4, wherein said means for extracting the liquid tobacco extract is provided as plunger which is slideably engageable with the external walls of the housing.9. The kit of claim 4, wherein said inhaler article is an electronic cigarette.10. The apparatus according to claim 2, further comprising a cartridge of an inhaler article detachably connected to the housing.11. A method of supplying a cartridge of an inhaler article with a liquid tobacco extract comprising: a. providing an apparatus of any preceding claim; b. loading the housing of the apparatus with tobacco derived solid and a solvent; c. extracting a tobacco extract from the tobacco derived solid to form a liquid tobacco extract and solvent mixture; and d. providing a cartridge of an inhaler article and delivering the tobacco extract to the cartridge.12. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein said housing comprises tobacco derived solid and at least one solvent selected from the group consisting of water, propylene glycol, glycerol or mixtures thereof13. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein said tobacco derived solid is separate from the solvent or the tobacco derived solid and solvent is provided as a mixture.14. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein said means for extracting liquid tobacco extract from the tobacco derived solid is a mesh filter or selectively-permeable membrane.15. The apparatus of 14, wherein said housing is a deformable bottle having stored therein a mixture of tobacco derived solid and solvent, which bottle dispenses liquid tobacco extract to the cartridge when an external deformable force is applied to the housing.16. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein said housing is a metered dose spray bottle having a tobacco derived solid and solvent mixture and a propellant solvent stored therein wherein said tobacco derived solid and solvent mixture and propellant solvent are separated by the means for extracting the liquid tobacco extract.17. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein said means for extracting the liquid tobacco extract is provided as plunger which is slideably engageable with the external walls of the housing.18. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein said inhaler article is an electronic cigarette.


[EN] A smoking article, especially a smoking article in the form of a replaceable cartridge, pellet, or capsule for a water-pipe, includes a body of smoking material, such as tobacco or the like, and a heat source provided in the body for heating the smoking material, wherein the smoking article defines an airflow path for air to be heated by the heat source and to pass through the body of smoking material. [EN] 1. A smoking article, comprising: a body of smoking material; anda heat source provided or embedded in the body for heating the body of smoking material;wherein the smoking article defines an airflow path for air to be heated by the heat source and to pass through the body of smoking material.2. The smoking article according to claim 1, wherein the heat source has at least one element for heating air on the airflow path, wherein the element includes one or more channels for flow of air there-through, the one or more channels forming a part of said airflow path.3. The smoking article according to claim 1, wherein the body of smoking material includes at least one baffle member for directing airflow through the body of smoking material along the airflow path.4. The smoking article according to claim 1, wherein the heat source is physically separated from the body of smoking material by a barrier layer.5. The smoking article according to claim 1, wherein an air chamber is arranged in the air-flow path between the heat source and the body of smoking material.6. The smoking article according to claim 5, wherein the air chamber is located below and/or laterally of the heat source and is in fluid communication with the body of smoking material.7. The smoking article according to claim 5, wherein the body of smoking material includes at least one baffle member for directing airflow from the air chamber in a convoluted manner along the airflow path through the body of smoking material.8. The smoking article according to claim 1, wherein the heat source is substantially surrounded or encompassed by the body of smoking material.9. The smoking article according to claim 1, wherein the heat source is substantially centrally located in the body of smoking material.10. The smoking article according to claim 1, wherein the body of smoking material is wrapped or covered with a protective barrier layer or film.11. The smoking article according to claim 1, wherein an outer end region of the element of the heat source includes a cover or screen to prevent direct contact therewith by a user, the cover or screen including holes or apertures forming part of the airflow path.12. The smoking article according to claim 1, wherein the heat source includes at least one heat transfer member that extends from the element into the body of smoking material for conducting heat thereto.13. The smoking article according to claim 1, wherein the smoking article is formed as a cartridge, pellet or capsule.14. The smoking article according to claim 1, wherein the body of smoking material comprises tobacco.15. The smoking article according to claim 2, wherein the at least one element for heating air on the airflow path includes a fuel element.16. The smoking article according to claim 4, wherein the barrier layer comprises an aluminum foil.17. The smoking article according to claim 6, wherein the air chamber is in fluid communication with the body of smoking material via perforations or holes in a barrier layer.18. The smoking article according to claim 9, wherein the body of smoking material is substantially cylindrical in shape.19. The smoking article according to claim 10, wherein the protective barrier layer or film comprises a metal foil, and optionally an outer thermally insulating layer, such as paper.20. The smoking article according to claim 11, further comprising an outer thermally insulating layer, such as paper.21. The smoking article according to claim 20, wherein the outer thermally insulating layer comprises paper.22. The smoking article according to claim 12, wherein the at least one heat transfer member comprises a fin or a plate.


[EN] A filter for a smoking article. The filter comprises a filter material and a user-activated component for altering smoke passing through the filter. The filter further comprises an indicator component for cooperating with the user-activated component to indicate when the user has activated the user-activated component. [EN] CLAIMS 1. A filter for a smoking article, the filter comprising filter material and a user- activated component for altering smoke passing through the filter, the filter further comprising an indicator component for cooperating with the user-activated component to indicate when the user has activated the user-activated component. 2. A filter according to claim 1, in which the user-activated component is a flavour releasing means.3. A filter according to claim 1 or 2, in which the user-activated component is in the form of a capsule or thread. 4. A filter according to any of claims 1 to 3, in which the indicator component is a thread. 5. A filter according to claim 4, in which the indicator component is able to drive liquid released by the user-activated material faster or further than the rest of the filter material in at least one direction. 6. A filter according to claim 4 or 5, in which the indicator component is pre- impregnated with an indicator material that is activated when the user activates the user-activated component.7. A filter according to any of claim 5 or 6, in which the indicator component activation occurs through wetting of the thread with liquid from the user- activated component. 8. A filter according to any of claims 1 to 7, in which the filter is arranged such that activation of the user-activated component occurs by a user applying pressure on the sides of the filter or by applying a radial twisting force to the filter. 9. A filter according to any of claims 1 to 8, in which the indicator component is provided at least around a portion of the outer edge of the filter. 10. A filter according to any of claims 1 to 8, in which the indicator component is provided at a proximal end of the filter adjacent to where a user places their mouth in use. 11. A filter according to any preceding claim, in which liquid retaining means is provided to prevent liquid driven through the indicator component from coming out from the filter. 12. A filter according to any preceding claim, in which the user-activated component is surrounded by material prior to its insertion into the filter component, said material forming part of the indicator component. 13. A filter according to any preceding claim, in which the indicator component is further arranged to provide an indication of the extent of activation of the user-activated component. 14. A filter according to any preceding claim, further comprising a plug wrap surrounding the filter material, and wherein the indicator component is formed on or in the plug wrap material. 15. An indicator component for use in a filter according to any preceding claim, arranged to provide an indication to the user when a user-activated component associated therewith is activated in use. 16. A smoking article comprising a filter according to any of claims 1 to 14.


[EN] A tear-tape (1) for opening a product wrapper (6), said tear-tape (1) comprising at least one band (2) to be provided on a surface of the product wrapper (6), wherein the tear-tape comprises at least two intersecting branches (3, 4) and wherein the intersection (8) between said branches is located between distal ends of a first branch such that, in use, opening of said product wrapper (6) follows a first opening stage along said first branch (3), from a first end thereof, followed by a second stage along the two intersecting branches (3, 4), from said intersection (8) until at least one of a second end of the first branch (3) and an end of the second branch (4). [EN] CLAIMS 1. A tear-tape (1) for opening a product wrapper (6), said tear-tape comprising at least one band (2) to be provided on a surface (7) of the product wrapper (6), wherein the tear-tape comprises at least two intersecting branches (3, 4) and wherein the intersection (8) between said branches is located between distal ends of a first branch such that, in use, opening of said product wrapper follows a first opening stage along said first branch, from a first end thereof, followed by a second stage along the two intersecting branches, from said intersection until at least one of a second end of the first branch and an end of the second branch.2. A tear-tape (1) according to claim 1, wherein the at least two intersecting branches (3, 4) are made of a single unitary band (2).3. A tear-tape (1) according to claim 1, wherein the at least two intersecting branches are made of at least two separate adhesive bands (2, 5) intersecting each other.4. A tear-tape (1) according to any of claims 1 to 3, wherein the angle a between the at least two intersecting branches (3, 4) is between 1 degrees and 80 degrees, preferably between 5 degrees and 75 degrees, and more preferably between 35 degrees and 55 degrees.5. A tear-tape (1) according to any of claims 1 to 4, wherein the at least two branches intersect to provide a Y- shaped junction (8) located between said distal ends of the first of the two intersecting branches.6. A tear-tape (1) according to any of claims 1 to 5, wherein at least one of the two branches (3, 4) is linear or comprises at least one linear segment starting from an end of the tear-tape.7. A product wrapper (6) formed from a sheet of tearable material comprising a tear-tape (1) according to any of claims 1 to 6.8. A method for producing a product wrapper (6) according to any of claims 1 to 7, the method comprising the steps of: positioning the tear-tape on a surface of the sheet such that at least a first branch extends between two opposite sides of the sheet; and providing the tear-tape to the surface of the sheet.9. A method according to claim 8, wherein said tear-tape is made of at least two separate adhesive bands intersecting each other, the method further comprising the steps of: positioning a first band of the tear-tape on a surface of the sheet and adhering it to said sheet to form the second branch of the tear-tape, and positioning a second band on the same surface of the sheet to form the first branch of the tear-tape such that its distal ends extend between two opposite sides of the sheet and the second band intersects the first band on at least one of its ends to form a Y-shaped junction between the two bands in between said distal ends of the first branch; and adhering said second band to said sheet and said first band.10. A method according to claim 8 or 9, further comprising a step of cutting the sheet of tearable material next to an end of the first branch of the tear-tape extending between two opposite sides of the sheet to provide a tearing tab in the wrapper, and cutting the sheet of material and wrapping an individual cut portion of the sheet material around a pack such that the distal ends of the first branch are located adjacent to a first face of the pack and the intersection between the two branches overlies a face adjacent to the first face of said pack. 1 1. A method according to claim 10, wherein the pack is a cigarette pack.12. An apparatus for performing the method of any of claims 8 to 1 1.


[EN] There is provided packaging (1), and blanks for forming said packaging, which comprises an inner packet part (150) and an outer packet part (100). The inner packet part is movable relative to the outer packet part. Movement of the inner packet part (150) is limited by a flexible linking element (170) which extends between the inner packet part (150) and the outer packet part (100). [EN] 1. A packaging, comprising: an outer packet part; an inner packet part disposed within the outer packet part, wherein the inner packet part is movable relative to the outer packet part between a closed position and an open position through an opening in the outer packet part; and a flexible linking element extending from the inner packet part to the outer packet part, wherein the flexible linking element is arranged to limit movement of the inner packet part relative to the outer packet part.2. The packaging according to claim 1, wherein movement of the inner packet part between the closed position and the open position comprises rotational movement.3. The packaging according to claim 2, wherein the movement of the inner packet part between the closed position and the open position comprises rotational movement around an axis which is inset from an outer side face of the inner packet part, the outer side face being disposed towards the opening of the outer packet part when the inner packet part is in the closed position.4. The packaging according to claim 3, wherein the linking element is arranged such that it extends from the outer packet part away from the opening when the inner packet part is in the closed position and extends from the outer packet part towards the opening when the inner packet part is in the open position.5. The packaging according to claim 4, wherein the linking element is coupled to an inner side face of the inner packet part, the inner side face being disposed away from the opening of the outer packet part when the inner packet part is in the closed position.6. The packaging according to claim 5, wherein the linking element is coupled to a top face of the outer packet part.7. The packaging according to claim 6, wherein, when the inner packet part is in the closed position, the linking element is coupled to the inner side face at a position disposed away from a connecting face to which the linking element is coupled.8. The packaging according to claim 7, wherein the linking element comprises a plurality of connecting sections hingedly coupled to one another.9. The packaging according to claim 8, wherein, when the inner packet part is in the closed position, at least one connecting section extends parallel to a connecting face of the outer packet part to which the linking element is coupled and at least one connecting section extends parallel to the inner side face of the inner packet part.10. The packaging according to claim 9, wherein, when the inner packet part is in the closed position, at least two connecting sections extend parallel to the connecting face of the outer packet part.11. The packaging according to claim 10, wherein the inner packet part is arranged such that, during movement between the closed position and the open position, it undergoes intermittent resistance.12. A blank for forming the inner packet part of claim 1.13. A blank for forming the outer packet part of claim 1.14. A method of forming an inner packet part, comprising folding the blank of claim 12.15. A method of forming an outer packet part, comprising folding the blank of claim 13.16. The packaging according to claim 1, wherein the linking element is arranged such that it extends from the outer packet part away from the opening when the inner packet part is in the closed position and extends from the outer packet part towards the opening when the inner packet part is in the open position.17. The packaging according to claim 1, wherein the linking element is coupled to an inner side face of the inner packet part, the inner side face being disposed away from the opening of the outer packet part when the inner packet part is in the closed position.18. The packaging according to claim 1, wherein the linking element is coupled to a top face of the outer packet part.19. The packaging according to claim 1, wherein, when the inner packet part is in the closed position, the linking element is coupled to the inner side face at a position disposed away from a connecting face to which the linking element is coupled.20. The packaging according to claim 1, wherein the linking element comprises a plurality of connecting sections hingedly coupled to one another.


[EN] A filter element for a smoking article has one end for connection to a rod element of smokeable material and an opposite end for insertion into a mouth of a user. The filter element includes: one or more filter segments provided on or arranged along a longitudinal axis of the filter element, at least one of the filter segments including a filter material; a wrapper which surrounds and wraps the one or more filter segments; and a liquid-filled breakable capsule arranged within one of the one or more filter segments, the capsule having a rupture point at which the capsule is designed to break or rupture upon application of external force to release liquid contained therein. The capsule is arranged in the one filter segment with the rupture point located at a first distance along the longitudinal axis from the one end of the filter element. [EN] 1. A smoking article, comprising a rod element of smokeable material connected to a filter element by a tipping wrapper, the filter element having a first end for connection to the rod element and an opposite, second end for insertion into a mouth of a user, the filter element comprising: a liquid-filled directional capsule arranged between the first and second ends of the filter element, the directional capsule having a rupture region at which the directional capsule is designed to break upon application of external force to release liquid contained therein,wherein the smoking article comprises a ventilation zone arranged between the first end of the filter element and the rupture region of the directional capsule.2. The smoking article according to claim 1, wherein the ventilation zone comprises a plurality of perforations provided through the tipping wrapper and/or extending into a portion of the filter element.3. The smoking article according to claim 1, wherein a distance between the rupture region of the directional capsule and the ventilation zone is at least 1 mm.4. The smoking article according to claim 1, wherein a distance between the first end of the filter element and the ventilation zone is at least 1 mm.5. The smoking article according to claim 1, wherein the directional capsule contains a liquid volume of at least 0.05 ml.6. The smoking article according to claim 1, wherein the filter element further comprises a filter wrapper at least partly extending between the first and second ends of the filter element.7. The smoking article according to claim 6, wherein the basis weight of the filter wrapper (8) is of at least 40 g/m2.8. The smoking article according to claim 6, wherein the Cobb water absorption of the filter wrapper is of no more than 35 g/m2.9. The smoking article according to claim 1, wherein the Cobb water absorption of the tipping wrapper is of no more than 25 g/m2.10. A filter element for a smoking article, the filter element having a first end for connection to a rod element of smokeable material and an opposite, second end for insertion into a mouth of a user, the filter element comprising: a liquid-filled directional capsule arranged between the first and second ends, the directional capsule having a rupture region at which the directional capsule is designed to break upon application of external force to release liquid contained therein,wherein the filter element comprises a ventilation zone arranged between the first end and the rupture region of the directional capsule.11. The filter element according to claim 10, wherein a distance between the rupture region of the directional capsule and the ventilation zone is at least 1 mm.12. The filter element according to claim 10, wherein a distance between the first end of the filter element and the ventilation zone is at least 1 mm.13. The filter element according to claim 10, wherein the directional capsule contains a liquid volume of at least 0.05 ml.14. The filter element according to claim 10, further comprising a filter wrapper at least partly extending between the first and second ends of the filter element.15. The filter element according to claim 14, wherein the Cobb water absorption of the filter wrapper is less than about 30 g/m2.


[EN] The invention relates to a (cigarette) package consisting of an outer package (10) and two inner packages (11, 12). The latter can be moved by a pivoting movement about a respective articulation joint in the region of an outer base wall (40) out of the closed position (upright within the outer package (10)) into an oblique open position. To this end a covering tab (28) which closes off the cup-shaped inner package (11, 12) on the upper face is automatically moved out of the closed position, such that the oblique inner package (11, 12) is ready for the removal of the contents of the packaging. [EN] 1. A packaging for cigarettes, comprising an outer packaging and at least one inner packaging arranged in said outer packaging, for holding the cigarettes, wherein the inner packaging can be pivoted about a joint line in the region of an outer base wall of the outer packaging, from a closed position within the outer packaging into an obliquely oriented open position partially outside the outer packaging, and wherein the inner packaging and the outer packaging are formed or folded in accordance with the principle of longitudinal folding, and a blank of the inner packaging is formed such that, an inner base wall is adjoined, at both sides, to folding lobes for side walls on the one hand and for an outer wall and an inner wall on the other hand, and wherein: a) the side walls of the inner packaging are of single-layer form and the outer wall and the inner wall are of double-layer form owing to approximately complete overlap of external and internal outer lobes and external and internal inner lobes, which are connected to the side walls, b) a blank of the outer packaging has folding lobes for a front wall on the one hand and for a rear wall on the other hand, said folding lobes being arranged to both sides of an outer base wall and being integrally connected to the latter, c) a top wall of the outer packaging is integrally connected to the front wall or to the rear wall, and d) the top wall is connected to the rear wall or to the front wall by a connecting tab.2. The packaging as claimed in claim 1, wherein: a) the inner base wall is directly adjoined by the folding lobes for the side walls on the one hand and the double-layer outer wall and the double-layer inner wall on the other hand, b) the outer lobes of the outer wall are connected to the respectively adjacent side wall via rounded edges or via oblique edges.3. The packaging as claimed in claim 1, wherein the outer wall on the one hand and the inner wall on the other hand are formed with different height dimensions, such that the outer wall substantially corresponds to an inner height dimension of the outer packaging and the inner wall is recessed in relation to the top wall of the outer packaging, such that a cigarette block when placed in the inner packaging projects, at a top side, beyond the inner wall when the inner packaging is in the open position.4. The packaging as claimed in claim 1, wherein: a) the inner packaging is cup-shaped and is closed at a top side during production and when in the closed position within the outer packaging, by tabs of the inner packaging, which tabs open up the top side of the inner packaging during the movement into the open position, b) a cover lobe is connected to the internal inner lobe of the double-layer inner wall, and c) a retaining limb of the cover lobe is fastened to the top wall of the outer wall.5. The packaging as claimed in claim 4, wherein the inner packaging when in the open position can be closed by the cover lobe arranged on the inner wall and by an opposite corner lobe which is connected to the internal outer lobe of the double-layer outer wall, wherein the corner lobe lies against the inner side of the cover lobe when the inner packaging is in the closed position.6. The packaging as claimed in claim 5, wherein: a) during the production of the packaging, the corner lobe is connected to the cover lobe by glue-on-glue points, b) the corner lobe is connected to the outer lobe by residual connections, c) the residual connections can be severed when the packaging is opened for the first time.7. The packaging as claimed in claim 4, wherein the cover lobe extends substantially over a full width and depth of an open side of the inner packaging and is, by way of a partial region, connected to the top wall of the outer packaging in a region of the retaining limb, by glue.8. The packaging as claimed in claim 4, wherein the cover lobe is composed of thin cardboard and has multiple transversely oriented linear joints formed by material deformation, said linear joints comprising a main joint for deflection of the cover lobe into the region of the internal inner lobe of the inner wall and a rim joint for deflection of the cover lobe on the upper edge of the inner lobe in the open position of the inner packaging.9. The packaging as claimed in claim 4, wherein the cover lobe serves as an upper cover of the inner packaging when the inner packaging is in the closed position, and serves as a limitation means for the oblique orientation of the inner packaging when the latter is in the open position.10. The packaging as claimed in claim 1, wherein one recess and one punched hole are formed in the region of the outer packaging at diametrically opposite positions of the front wall on the one hand and of the rear wall on the other hand, such that they interact with counterpart recesses and punched holes of the inner packagings to provide tactile and/or audible identification of the open position of the inner packagings.11. The packaging as claimed in claim, wherein the outer base wall of the outer packaging has, owing to a U-shaped punching of each inner packaging, associated articulated tabs with a linear joint transversely in the outer base wall, wherein each inner packaging is fastened by way of an inner base wall to the associated articulated tab by glue.12. A method for producing packagings for cigarettes, comprising an outer packaging and two inner packagings, each for holding a cigarette block, arranged in said outer packaging, wherein each inner packaging can be pivoted about a joint line in a region of an outer base wall of the outer packaging from an upright closed position within the outer packaging into an obliquely oriented open position with a partial region outside the outer packaging, and wherein the inner packaging is composed of a blank which is formed or folded in accordance with the principle of longitudinal folding and comprises an inner base wall and folding lobes, which adjoin said inner base wall, for side walls on the one hand and for an outer wall and an inner wall on the other hand, and wherein: a) parts of the blank for the inner packaging, specifically side wall with outer lobes and with inner base wall, are folded into an upright angled position relative to the opposite side wall, b) the folding lobes that are connected to the side wall positioned in a horizontal direction, specifically inner lobes and connecting lobes, are likewise uprighted, wherein the connecting lobes bear against the inner base wall at the inside, c) a prepared, fully-folded cigarette block is then inserted via the open side into the horizontal limb of the folded blank as far as the inner base wall and opposite face lobe fold, d) then, in the region of the free side of the cigarette block, cover lobes and optionally corner lobes, are folded into a closed position against the face fold and are connected to one another, e) the side wall and the outer lobes are then folded in succession.13. The method as claimed in claim 12, wherein the inner packagings are produced in corresponding design and in initially identical relative position, one behind the other or adjacent one another, wherein, before the insertion of two adjacent inner packagings into an outer packaging, one of the inner packagings can be rotated through 180 degrees about a longitudinal axis such that the inner packagings assigned to one another bear against one another by way of the inner walls.14. The method as claimed in claim 12, wherein a corner lobe is situated opposite the cover lobe and is attached to an internal inner lobe of the inner packaging by severable residual connections, which are additionally weakened by pre-folding of the corner lobe in a first folding step.15. The method as claimed in claim 12, wherein: a) the outer packaging comprises a blank with regions, arranged in succession, for a rear wall, an outer base wall, a front wall, a top wall and a connecting tab for connecting the top wall to the rear wall, b) continuous rows of glue points are initially applied to the inner side of the blank, in a formation of double rows of glue points arranged in each case to both sides of a central axis, c) subsequently, reinforcement lobes are folded onto the inner sides of front wall and rear wall, d) the blank provided with glue points is then folded into an angled intermediate position with upright outer base wall and adjoining, likewise uprighted rear wall, e) then, two inner packagings bearing against one another are pushed, with the respective inner base wall pointing forward in the conveying direction, onto the angled blank of the outer packaging, f) finally, the rear wall is folded against the free side of the inner packagings so as to produce the connection to the connecting tab.16. A packaging for cigarettes, comprising an outer packaging and at least one inner packaging arranged in said outer packaging, for holding the cigarettes, wherein the inner packaging can be pivoted about a joint line in the region of an outer base wall of the outer packaging from a closed position within the outer packaging into an obliquely oriented open position partially outside the outer packaging, and wherein the inner packaging and the outer packaging are formed or folded in accordance with the principle of longitudinal folding, and a blank of the inner packaging is formed such that, an inner base wall is adjoined, at both sides, to folding lobes for side walls on the one hand and for an outer wall and an inner wall on the other hand, and wherein: a) the side walls of the inner packaging are of single-layer form and the outer wall and the inner wall are of double-layer form owing to approximately complete overlap of external and internal outer lobes and external and internal inner lobes, which are connected to the side walls, b) a blank of the outer packaging has folding lobes for a front wall on the one hand and for a rear wall on the other hand, said folding lobes being arranged to both sides of an outer base wall and being integrally connected to the latter, c) a top wall of the outer packaging is integrally connected to the front wall-or to the rear wall, d) the top wall is connected to the rear wall or to the front wall by a connecting tab; and e) one recess and one punched hole are formed in the region of the outer packaging at diametrically opposite positions of the front wall on the one hand and of the rear wall on the other hand, such that they interact with counterpart recesses and punched holes of the inner packagings to provide tactile and/or audible identification of the open position of the inner packagings.17. The packaging as claimed in claim 16, wherein: a) the inner base wall is directly adjoined by the folding lobes for the side walls on the one hand and the double-layer outer wall and the double-layer inner wall on the other hand, b) the outer lobes of the outer wall are connected to the respectively adjacent side wall via rounded edges or via oblique edges.18. The packaging as claimed in claim 17, wherein the outer wall on the one hand and the inner wall on the other hand are formed with different height dimensions, such that the outer wall substantially corresponds to an inner height dimension of the outer packaging and the inner wall is recessed in relation to the top wall of the outer packaging, such that a cigarette block when placed in the inner packaging projects, at a top side, beyond the inner wall when the inner packaging is in the open position.19. The packaging as claimed in claim 18, wherein: a) the inner packaging is cup-shaped and is closed at a top side during production and when in the closed position within the outer packaging, by tabs of the inner packaging, which tabs open up the top side of the inner packaging during the movement into the open position, b) a cover lobe is connected to the internal inner lobe of the double-layer inner wall, and c) a retaining limb of the cover lobe is fastened to the top wall of the outer wall.20. The packaging as claimed in claim 19, wherein the inner packaging when in the open position can be closed by the cover lobe arranged on the inner wall and by an opposite corner lobe which is connected to the internal outer lobe of the double-layer outer wall, wherein the corner lobe lies against the inner side of the cover lobe when the inner packaging is in the closed position.


[EN] The present invention provides a packaging film (1) for use in packaging a consumer product, especially a pack of smoking articles, comprising: an area or expanse (2) of film material configured to cover the consumer product; and opening means (3) formed in the area or expanse (2) of the film material to assist or promote opening or removal of the film when it covers the product in order to access the product, the opening means (3) including at least two frangible seams (5) which extends across at least a portion of the area or expanse (2) of the film material, wherein the at least one frangible seam (5) comprises at least two lines of weakness (7) that extend generally parallel and together define a single, desirably substantially linear, tear path (P). [EN] 1. A packaging film for packaging a consumer product, such as a pack of smoking articles, comprising: an area or expanse of a film material for covering the consumer product; and opening means formed in the area or expanse of the film material to promote opening or removal of the packaging film when it covers the consumer product to access the consumer product;wherein the opening means comprises a pair of frangible seams spaced apart and defining a tear strip there-between, andwherein each frangible seam extends across at least a portion of the area or expanse of the film material and comprises two lines of weakness that extend substantially parallel and together define a single tear path.2. A packaging film according to claim 1, wherein the single tear path defined by the two lines of weakness is substantially linear.3. A packaging film according to claim 1, wherein the lines of weakness of the frangible seams are adjacent one another and spaced in the range of 0 mm to 5 mm apart, preferably in the range of 1 mm to 2 mm, and more preferably in the range of 0.5 mm to 1 mm.4. A packaging film according claim 1, wherein the tear strip has a width of between about 5 mm and 15 mm, preferably about 10 mm.5. A packaging film according claim 1, wherein each of the lines of weakness comprises a score line or a line of perforations formed in the film, wherein the perforations in the respective lines of weakness are preferably at least partially offset from one another along the tear path they define.6. A packaging film according claim 1, wherein the frangible seams extend on opposite sides of the tear strip substantially parallel to one another, wherein the tear strip preferably or optionally includes a tear tape bonded thereto.7. A packaging film according to claim 1, wherein the opening means includes a tab or flap to be gripped and drawn by a user for activating the at least two frangible seams.8. A packaging film according to claim 7, wherein the tab or flap is provided in or connects to the sheet of the packaging film at a position between two lines of weakness, and preferably between the lines of weakness of two frangible seams.9. A packaging film according to claim 1, wherein the film comprises a flexible, preferably transparent sheet formed of cellophane, polypropylene, or another polymer or synthetic material, the area or expanse thereof being generally rectangular.10. A method of manufacturing a packaging film for use packaging a consumer product, such as a pack of smoking articles, the method comprising: providing a sheet of film material;defining at least one area or expanse of the polymer film material for wrapping around a product to be packaged; andforming an opening means in the area or expanse of the film material to promote opening or removal of the film material from the product, the opening means comprising two frangible seams defining a tear strip there-between, such that the two frangible seams extend on opposite sides of the tear strip,wherein the step of forming each of the frangible seams comprises forming two lines of weakness that extend generally parallel and together define a single tear path.11. A method according to claim 10, wherein the two lines of weakness of the at least one frangible seam are forming adjacent one another and spaced in the range of 0 mm to 5 mm apart, preferably in the range of 1 mm to 2 mm, and more preferably in the range of 0.5 mm to 1 mm.12. A method according to claim 10, comprising forming a tear strip having a width of between about 5 mm and 15 mm between the two frangible seams, preferably a width of about 10 mm.13. A method according to claim 10, wherein the step of forming the lines of weakness comprises scoring or perforating the line of weakness across the area or expanse of the polymer film material, wherein the perforations in the respective lines of weakness are preferably at least partially offset from one another along the tear path they define.14. A method according to claim 13, further comprising the step of forming a tab or flap to be gripped and drawn by a user for operating the tear strip.15. A packaged consumer product, such as a pack of smoking articles, comprising a packaging film according to claim 1 as an outer wrapping.16. A packaged consumer product, such as a pack of smoking articles, comprising a packaging film according to claim 10 as an outer wrapping.


[EN] A mechanical skill assessment device includes a plurality of mechanical block- advancing means for advancing a testing block along a predefined path, and a plurality of drive means configured to impart motion to the plurality of block- advancing means. The plurality of drive means include at least one adjustable motion conveying means for synchronising relative motion of the plurality of block-advancing means so as to advance the testing block along the predefined path. [EN] CLAIMS 1. A mechanical skill assessment device (10), comprising: a plurality of mechanical block-advancing means (PI; P2; FI; F2) for advancing a testing block (B) along a predefined path (G); and a plurality of drive means (2; 3; 4; 5; 7a; 7b; 7c; 7d; 7e; 8a; 8b; 8c; 8d; 8e; 9a; 9b) configured to impart motion to the plurality of block-advancing means, the plurality of drive means including at least one adjustable motion conveying means for synchronising relative motion of the plurality of block- advancing means so as to advance the testing block (B) along the predefined path (G).2. The mechanical skill assessment device (10) according to claim 1, wherein two of the plurality of mechanical block-advancing means (PI; P2; FI; F2) are arranged to interfere with each other when driven in asynchronous motion.3. The mechanical skill assessment device (10) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein two of the plurality of mechanical block-advancing means (PI; P2; FI; F2) are arranged to simultaneously contact the testing block (B) along the predefined path (G) when driven in synchronous motion.4. The mechanical skill assessment device (10) according to one of the claims 1 to 3, wherein the plurality of mechanical block-advancing means (PI; P2; FI; F2) come into contact with a portion of the testing block (B) to advance it along the predefined path (G) when driven in synchronous motion. 5.The mechanical skill assessment device (10) according to claim 4, wherein the plurality of mechanical block-advancing means (PI; P2; FI; F2) are arranged such that at least one of the plurality of mechanical block- advancing means is in contact with a portion of the testing block (B) while the testing block (B) advances along the predefined path (G) when driven in synchronous motion. 6 The mechanical skill assessment device (10) according to one of the claims 1 to 5, wherein the plurality of drive means (2; 3; 4; 5; 7a; 7b; 7c; 7d; 7e; 8a; 8b; 8c; 8d; 8e; 9a; 9b) comprise at least one of a belt drive, a chain drive, a shaft drive, a gear drive, and a cam mechanism.7. The mechanical skill assessment device (10) according to one of the claims 1 to 6, further comprising: guiding means (6a, 6b) for guiding advancement of the testing block (B) along the predefined path (G) when the plurality of mechanical block- advancing means (PI; P2; FI; F2) are driven in synchronous motion. 8 The mechanical skill assessment device (10) according to one of the claims 1 to 7, wherein at least one of the plurality of drive means (2; 3; 4; 5; 7a; 7b; 7c; 7d; 7e; 8a; 8b; 8c; 8d; 8e; 9a; 9b) and the plurality of mechanical block- advancing means (PI; P2; FI; F2) are manufactured using an additive manufacturing process. 9 The mechanical skill assessment device (10) according to one of the claims 1 to 8, wherein the plurality of mechanical block-advancing means (PI; P2; FI; F2) comprise at least one of a rotatable flap and a rotatable pusher.10. Use of a mechanical skill assessment device (10) as defined in any of claims 1 to 9 for testing the mechanical skills of a machine operator or technician.11. A method for testing abilities and mechanical skills of machine operators or technicians, the method comprising: setting (Ml), by a test supervisor, a mechanical skill assessment device (10) according to any of claims 1 to 10 to a predefined test configuration in which the plurality of drive means (2; 3; 4; 5; 7a; 7b; 7c; 7d; 7e; 8a; 8b; 8c; 8d; 8e; 9a; 9b) are arranged such that the relative motion of at least two of the plurality of block-advancing means (PI; P2; FI; F2) is asynchronous; adjusting (M2), by an operator or technician under test, the mechanical skill assessment device (10) so that the plurality of drive means are arranged such that the relative motion of the plurality of block- advancing means is synchronous; measuring (M3) the time required by the operator or technician to adjust the mechanical skill assessment device (10) and comparing it against a benchmark time for adjusting the mechanical skill assessment device (10) from the predefined test configuration; checking (M4) the adjustments made by the operator or technician under test by inserting a testing block (B) in the adjusted mechanical skill assessment device (10), actuating the adjusted mechanical skill assessment device (10) to advance the testing block (B) along the mechanical skill assessment device (10) and comparing the path followed by the testing block (B) with the predefined block-advancing path; and determining (M5) the abilities and mechanical skills of the operator or technician under test on the basis of the results of the measured time and the result of the checking step (M4).


[EN] A tipping element (4) for a smoking article (1). The smoking article comprises a tobacco rod (2) and a filter (3) secured to the tobacco rod by the tipping element. The smoking article comprises a user-activated component (5) for altering smoke passing through the filter and said tipping element comprises an indicator component (8) for cooperating with the user-activated component to indicate when the user has activated the user-activated component. [EN] Claims 1. A tipping element for a smoking article, the smoking article comprising a tobacco rod and a filter secured to the tobacco rod by the tipping element, said smoking article further comprising a user-activated component for altering smoke passing through the filter and characterized in that said tipping element comprises an indicator component for cooperating with the user-activated component to indicate when the user has activated the user-activated component. 2. A tipping element according to claim 1, characterized in that the indicator component comprises means for at least locally modifying optical contrast within the tipping element when the user has activated the user-activated component. 3. A tipping element according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the indicator component comprises means for at least locally enhancing optical contrast within the tipping element when the user has activated the user-activated component to provide a visual indication to the user within the tipping element. 4. A tipping element according to any of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the user- activated component is a fluid releasing means and the indicator element is activated when contacting said fluid. 5. A tipping element according to any of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the user- activated component is a liquid releasing means and the indicator element is activated when contacting said liquid. 6. A tipping element according to any of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the indicator component comprises at least one layer contacting the filter and the tipping element. 7. A tipping element according to any of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the indicator component comprises at least one thread contacting the filter and the tipping element. 8. A tipping element according to claim 5 and 7, characterized in that the at least one thread comprises material capable of driving liquid released by the user-activated component faster or further than the rest of the tipping element material in at least one direction. 9. A tipping element according to any of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the indicator component is pre-impregnated with an indicator material that is activated when the user activates the user-activated component within the filter. 10. A tipping element according to any of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the indicator component is configured such that it provides visual indication to the user at least partially on the outer edge of the tipping element. 11. A tipping element according to any of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the indicator component comprises means for at least locally modifying the surface texture of the tipping element and providing a tactile indication to the user on the outer edge of the tipping element. 12. A tipping element according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the indicator component is further arranged to provide an indication of the extent of activation of the user-activated component. 13. A tipping element according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the user-activated component is a flavour releasing means. 14. A smoking article comprising a tipping element according to any preceding claim.


[EN] A method of cigarette packaging, the method comprising the steps of: Packing at least a first cigarette packet (52a) labeled with a first unique code (I2a) and a second cigarette packet (52b) labeled with a second unique code (I2b) into a first carton (10) and recording an information (56) that at least the two cigarette packets (52a,52b) with the first unique code (I2a) and the second unique code (I2b) are packed into the same carton (10) in a database; Packing the first carton (10) into a case (20); Detecting the first unique code (I2a) in the case (20) and reading from the database all the unique codes (I2b) of the cigarette packets (52b) that are packed into the same carton (10) as the detected first unique code (I2a). Furthermore, a method for tracking cigarette packets (52a,52b) and a cigarette packaging system is described. [EN] 1. A method of cigarette packaging, the method comprising the steps of: Packing at least a first cigarette packet (52a) labeled with a first unique code (I2a) and a second cigarette packet (52b) labeled with a second unique code (I2b), wherein the unique code is provided on a cardboard, a poly film, a label, a sticker or a tax stamp of each cigarette packet, into a first carton (10) and recording an information (56) that at least the two cigarette packets (52a,52b) with the first unique code (I2a) and the second unique code (I2b) are packed into the same carton (10) in a database; Packing the first carton (10) into a case (20); Detecting the first unique code (I2a) in the case (20); Inputting the detected first unique code (I2a) into the database and reading from the database all the unique codes (I2b) of the cigarette packets (52b) that are packed into the same carton (10) as the detected first unique code (I2a).2. The method of claim 1, the method comprising the additional steps of: Providing a unique case code (22) on the case (20); and Recording an information (26,64) that links the detected first unique code (I2a) and all the unique codes (I2b) of the cigarette packets (52b) that are packed into the same carton (10) as the detected first unique code (I2a) to the unique case code (22).3. The method of claim 1, wherein the first unique code (I2a) and the second unique code (I2b) are detected in the first carton (10) after the packaging of the first cigarette packet (52a) and the second cigarette packet (52b) into the first carton (10), and wherein the detected first unique code (I2a) and second unique code (I2b) are transferred to the database for the recording of the information (56) that at least the two cigarette packets (52a,52b) with the first unique code (I2a) and the second unique code (I2b) are packed into the same carton (10) in the database.4. The method of claim 3, wherein the first carton (10) is made at least partially of a material that allows the detection of the first unique code (I2a) and the second unique code (I2b) from the outside of the closed first carton (10).5. The method of claim 1, wherein the first unique code (I2a) is detected in the case (20) from the outside of the closed case (20).6. The method of claim 1, wherein at least a third cigarette packet (52) labeled with a third unique code (12) and a forth cigarette packet (52) labeled with a forth unique code (12), wherein the unique code is provided on a cardboard, a poly film, a label, a sticker or a tax stamp of each cigarette packet, are packed into a second carton (10), and wherein the second carton (10) is packed into the case (20).7. The method of claim 1, wherein the first carton (10) is provided with an internal carton code (16), and wherein the recorded information (56) that at least the two cigarette packets (52a,52b) with the first unique code (I2a) and the second unique code (I2b) are packed into the same carton (10) comprises an additional information (18) that links the first unique code (I2a) and the second unique code (I2b) to the internal carton code (16).8. A method for tracking cigarette packets (52a,52b), the method comprising the step of: Packing at least a first cigarette packet (52a) labeled with a first unique code (I2a) and a second cigarette packet (52b) labeled with a second unique code (I2b) into a case (20) according to the method of claim 1.9. A cigarette packaging system comprising: A control device (58) with a database; A first packing machine (50) that is designed to pack at least a first cigarette packet (52a) labeled with a first unique code (I2a) and a second cigarette packet (52b) labeled with a second unique code (I2b), wherein the unique code is provided on a cardboard, a poly film, a label, a sticker or a tax stamp of each cigarette packet, into a first carton (10); A first sensor unit (54) that is designed to detect at least the first unique code (I2a) and the second unique code (I2b) in the first carton (10) and to provide an information (56) that at least the two cigarette packets (52a,52b) with the first unique code (12a) and the second unique code (12b) are packed into the same carton (10) to the control unit (58), wherein the control unit (58) is designed to record the provided information (56) in the database; A second packing machine (60) that is designed to pack at least the first carton (10) into a case (20); and A second sensor unit (62) that is designed to detect the first unique code (12a) in the case (20) and to transmit the detected first unique code (12a) to the control unit (58), wherein the control unit (58) is designed to read from the database all the unique codes (12b) of the cigarette packets (52b) that are packed into the same carton (10) as the detected first unique code (12a).10. The cigarette packaging system of claim 9, wherein the second sensor unit (62) is further designed to detect a unique case code (22) on the case (20) and to transmit the detected unique case code (20) to the control unit (58), and wherein the control unit (58) is further designed to record an information (28) on the database that links the unique case code (22) to the first unique code (12a) and to all the unique codes (12b) of the cigarette packets (52b) that are packed into the same carton (10) as the detected first unique code (12a).


[EN] The present invention provides a packaging assembly for packaging one or more articles, comprising: an inner body part which defines at least one inner compartment to receive an article; an outer body part that at least partially encompasses the inner body part; and a cover member which is movable between a closed position to prevent access to the at least one inner compartment and an open position to permit access to the at least one inner compartment; wherein the outer body part is movable relative to the inner body part between a first position and a second position to move the cover member between the closed position and the open position. [EN] 1. A packaging assembly for packaging one or more articles, comprising: an inner body part defining at least one inner compartment to receive an article;an outer body part at least partially enclosing or encompassing the inner body part; anda cover member that is movable between a closed position preventing access to the at least one inner compartment and an open position permitting access to the at least one inner compartment;wherein the outer body part is movable relative to the inner body part between a first position and a second position to move the cover member between the closed position and the open position, andwherein the inner and outer body parts include complementary latching means configured and arranged to engage and releasably latch or interlock with each other when the outer body part is in the second position relative to the inner body part, to hold the cover member in the open position.2. A packaging assembly according to claim 1, wherein the outer body part is movable in a translational or sliding displacement relative to the inner body part between the first position and second position.3. A packaging assembly according to claim 1, wherein the outer body part is movable in a rotary or rotational movement relative to the inner body part between the first and second positions.4. A packaging assembly according to claim 1, wherein the cover member is pivotally connected to the outer body part via a hinge connection for pivoting movement between the closed position and the open position when the outer body part moves relative to the inner body part between the first position and second position, respectively.5. A packaging assembly according to claim 1, wherein the cover member is pivotally connected to the inner body part via a hinge connection so that the cover member pivots between the open and closed positions relative to the inner body part.6. A packaging assembly according to claim 1, wherein the inner body part forms an inner casing and the outer body part forms an outer casing that surrounds the inner casing, especially in the form of a sleeve.7. A packaging assembly according to claim 1, further comprising biasing means, especially at least one spring member, which biases or urges the outer body part towards the first position relative to the inner body part.8. A packaging assembly according to claim 1, wherein the complementary latching means include at least one first latching element on an inner surface of the outer body part and at least one complementary second latching element respectively provided on an outer surface of the inner body part, wherein one or both of the first and second latching elements is deformable or deflectable to facilitate interlocking and/or release of the complementary latching means.9. A packaging assembly according to claim 8, wherein the first latching element includes a first locking face which cooperates and abuts with a second locking face of the second latching element when the outer body part is in the second position relative to the inner body part, in order to hold the cover member in the open position.10. A packaging assembly according to claim 8, wherein the complementary latching means are configured to disengage automatically from each other upon pressure or traction force exerted at an end of the inner body part relative to the outer body part.11. A packaging assembly according to claim 1, wherein the inner body part and the outer body part include stop means which define the first and second positions and limit movement of the outer body part relative to the inner body part between the first and second positions.12. A packaging assembly according to claim 1, wherein the inner body part is configured to accommodate elongate articles in the at least one inner compartment and is mounted in the outer body part such that a proffering of said articles is achieved through an opening in the outer body part when the outer body part is in the second position.13. A packaging assembly according to claim 1, wherein the cover member is configured to form an airtight closure or seal of at least one opening in the outer body part and/or of the at least one inner compartment of the inner body part in the closed position.14. A packaging assembly according to claim 1, wherein the inner body part, the outer body part and the cover member are made from a plastic material, such as polyethylene, polypropylene, or polyurethane, preferably by injecting molding.15. A pack of articles comprising a packaging assembly according to claim 1, wherein a plurality of articles are held within the at least one inner compartment of the inner body part.


[EN] The present invention relates to a method of producing a smoking article wrapper with reduced ignition propensity and to a wrapper for a smoking article per se. Specifically the present invention relates to a method of producing a wrapper for a smoking article comprising the steps of: (a) providing a wrapper; (b) applying one or more additives to the surface of the wrapper to form regions of applied additive having reduced porosity and/or reduced oxygen diffusion sufficient to reduce the ignition propensity of a smoking article and regions having substantially reduced or zero additive such that the wrapper maintains its physical integrity during processing and has improved visual appearance by reduced wrinkling; and (c) machining the wrapper to form a wrapper which upon incorporation in to the smoking article forms rings of additive. [EN] Claims 1. A method of producing a wrapper for a smoking article comprising the steps of: (a) providing a wrapper (4); (b) applying one or more additives in a liquid carrier to the surface of the wrapper to form regions of applied additive (7) having reduced porosity and/or reduced oxygen diffusion sufficient to reduce the ignition propensity of a smoking article and regions having substantially reduced or zero additive (8) such that the wrapper (4) maintains its physical integrity during processing and has improved visual appearance by reduced wrinkling, wherein the regions of the wrapper with substantially reduced or zero (8) additive form the overlap area along its gluing seam (14) when incorporated in to the smoking article (13); and2. The method of claim 1, wherein the regions with substantially reduced additive (8) have at least 50 percent less additive than the regions of applied additive3. The method of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the wrapper (4) is provided as a jumbo roll (3) and said regions of applied additive (7) and regions of substantially reduced or zero additive (8) are formed by discontinuous application of the additive across the surface of the wrapper (4) as is it unwound.4. The method of any preceding claim, wherein the additive is applied to the wrapper (4) by one or more printing stations (6), wherein preferably one or more drying stations (9) is positioned between adjacent print stations (6) to dry the applied additive. 5. The method of any preceding claim, wherein the wrapper (4) comprises a matrix structure and the liquid carrier draws the additive from the surface of the wrapper (4) into the matrix such that the additive is impregnated in the wrapper (4). 6. The method of any preceding claim, wherein two or more discontinuous lines of additive are applied to the surface of the wrapper (4) simultaneously in a single pass of the wrapper (4) through the one or more printing stations (6) or sequentially by multiple passes. 7. The method of any preceding claim, wherein two or more discontinuous lines of additive are printed on to the surface of the wrapper (4) in the cross direction across the wrapper (4) such that the applied regions of additive (7) from adjacent lines are arranged in columns in the machine direction across the wrapper (4) and spaced apart with regions of substantially reduced or zero additive (8). 8. The method of claim 7, wherein each individual region of applied additive is offset at an angle perpendicular to the machine direction of the jumbo roll (3). 9. The method of any preceding claim, wherein each individual region of additive is applied to the wrapper (4) in a discontinuous line at an angle of up to 15 degrees from the cross direction axis of the wrapper (4). 10. The method of any preceding claim, wherein the regions of applied additive (7) correspond to the circumference of the smoking article (13) or the circumference of the smoking article (13) less the side seam overlap (14) in the cross direction. 11. The method of any preceding claim, wherein the regions of applied additive (7) are from 4 to 12 mm wide and the regions of substantially reduced or zero additive (8) between adjacent regions of applied additive (7) are from 10 to 30 mm wide in the machine direction. 12. The method of claim 1, wherein the pattern of applied additive is a ring configuration around the circumference of the smoking article (13). 13. The method of claim 12, wherein the pattern of applied additive is a discontinuous ring configuration around the circumference of the smoking article (13). 14. The method of any preceding claim, where in the additive comprises a compound selected from the group consisting of vinyl alcohols, vinyl acetates including partially hydrolysed derivatives, their homopolymers and co-polymers, alginates, modified or unmodified starch, cellulose and its derivatives such as carboxymethyl cellulose, ethyl-cellulose and hydroxypropyl-cellulose, pectins, natural or synthetic waxes, inorganic ions, inorganic phosphate, mono or divalent metal salt, silica, burn retardants or combinations thereof 15. A wrapper for a smoking article comprising regions of one or more additives (7) applied to its surface which regions have reduced porosity and/or reduced oxygen diffusion sufficient to reduce the ignition propensity of the smoking article and regions having substantially reduced or zero additive (8) such that the wrapper maintains its physical integrity during processing and has improved visual appearance by reduced wrinkling, wherein the regions of the wrapper with substantially reduced or zero additive (7) form the overlap area along its gluing seam (14) when incorporated into the smoking article (13). 16. A wrapper according to claim 15, further comprising one or more of the features of the wrapper defined in any of claim 2 to 14. 17. A smoking article comprising a wrapper (12) obtainable by a method of any of claims 1 to 14.


[EN] A cartridge 84 for an electronic vapour inhaler 10 comprises an induction heatable element 28 preferably in the form of induction heatable particulate material 90 which is heated in the presence of an electromagnetic field and a flavour-release medium 86 preferably adhered as a coating to an outer surface of the induction heatable particulate material or in the form of fine pieces, pellets, particles, flakes or fibrous form. A paper overwrap may be provided to act as a protective sleeve 88.


[EN] A filter element (3) for a smoking article, the filter element (3)comprising:at least one plug of filter material surrounded by a substantially air permeable plug wrap(40), wherein the plug of filter material comprises at least two segments (5, 6) being longitudinally aligned and rotatably mounted about a common longitudinal axis, at least one of the segments (5, 6) comprising at least one perforation(8) formed in the substantially air permeable plug wrap(40); and a wrapping material (9) surrounding at least one portion of the substantially air permeable plug wrap (40), the wrapping material (9) comprising a first part (10) attached to a first (5) of the two segments of the plug of filter material and a second part (11) attached to the second segment (6) of the plug of filter material,and comprising at least one aperture (13) formed therein, the first and second parts (10, 11) of the wrapping material (9) and first and second segments (5, 6)of the plug of filter material being arranged such that the respective at least one perforation (8) of the substantially air permeable plug wrap (40) and the at least one aperture(13) of the wrapping material (9) can be superimposed upon rotation of one of the segments (5, 6) of the plug of filter material about the common longitudinal axis to vary the filter ventilation. [EN] CLAIMS 1. A filter element (3) for a smoking article, the filter element (3) comprising: at least one plug of filter material surrounded by a substantially air permeable plug wrap (40), wherein the plug of filter material comprises at least two segments (5, 6) being longitudinally aligned and rotatably mounted about a common longitudinal axis, at least one of the segments (5, 6) comprising at least one perforation (8) formed in the substantially air permeable plug wrap (40); and a wrapping material (9) surrounding at least one portion of the substantially air permeable plug wrap (40), the wrapping material (9) comprising a first part (10) attached to a first (5) of the two segments of the plug of filter material and a second part (1 1) attached to the second segment (6) of the plug of filter material, and comprising at least one aperture (13) formed therein, the first and second parts (10, 1 1) of the wrapping material (9) and first and second segments (5, 6) of the plug of filter material being arranged such that the respective at least one perforation (8) of the substantially air permeable plug wrap (40) and the at least one aperture (13) of the wrapping material (9) can be superimposed upon rotation of one of the segments (5, 6) of the plug of filter material about the common longitudinal axis to vary the filter ventilation.2. A filter element (3) according to claim 1, wherein the at least one perforation (8) is formed in the second segment (6) of the filter material and the at least one aperture (13) is formed in the second part (1 1) of the wrapping material (9).3. A filter element (3) according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein each of the at least one perforation (8) has a first length and each of the at least one aperture (18) has a second length.4. A filter element (3) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each of the at least one perforation (8) and each of the at least one aperture (18) is located in a first plane perpendicular to the common longitudinal axis.5. A filter element according to claim 4, wherein the at least one of the segments (5, 6) of the filter material comprises at least three perforations (8) spaced equidistally from each other.6. A filter element according to any preceding claim, further comprising at least one second plug of filter material comprising an adsorbent material, preferably activated charcoal.7. A filter element according to any preceding claim, wherein the plug wrap porosity is comprised between about 1300 CU and about 24000 CU.8. A smoking article (1) comprising a filter element (3) according to any of claims 1 to 7 and a tobacco rod (2) connected to an end of the filter element (3) by the wrapping material (9) overlapping said end of the filter element (3) and one end of the tobacco rod (2).9. A smoking article according to claim 8, having a maximum pressure drop of below 130 mmH20.10. A smoking article (1) according to claim 8 or claim 9, wherein the second part of the wrapping material (1 1) comprising the aperture (13) surrounds a segment (6) of the plug of filter material including the perforation (8) and at least part of a segment (6) of the plug of filter material free from the at least one perforation (8). 1 1. A smoking article (1) according to any of claims 9 to 10, wherein the first and second parts (10, 1 1) of the wrapping material (9) are separated by a circumferential slit (12) around the filter plug.12. A smoking article according to claim 1 1, wherein the first and second segments (5, 6) of the plug of filter material are separated by a circumferential cut (7) in a second plane perpendicular to the common longitudinal axis, and wherein the circumferential slit (12) is located in the second plane.


[EN] The invention relates to a resealable pack of smoking articles, which comprises a sealed protective enclosure suitable for enclosing a charge of smoking articles. The enclosure is adapted to be opened in order to enable a user to take one or more of the smoking articles out of the pack. Further, the enclosure is adapted to be subsequently resealed in order to restore protection for the charge of smoking articles or for a remainder of the charge against aroma and freshness alteration. The enclosure comprises a component at least in part semi-transparent, preferably transparent which enables the user to see the charge or the remainder of the charge from the outside of the enclosure in the resealed state thereof. Furthermore, the invention relates to a method for packaging smoking articles. [EN] CLAIMS 1. Resealable pack (P) of smoking articles (S), comprising a sealed protective enclosure (36) suitable for enclosing a charge (C) of smoking articles (S); wherein the enclosure (36) is adapted to be opened in order to enable a user to take one or more of the smoking articles (S) out of the pack (P); wherein the enclosure (36) is adapted to be subsequently resealed in order to restore protection for the charge (C) of smoking articles (S) or for a remainder of the charge (C) against aroma and freshness alteration; and wherein the enclosure (36) comprises a component (15) at least in part semi-transparent, preferably transparent, which enables the user to see the charge (C) or the remainder of the charge (C) from an outside of the enclosure (36) in the resealed state thereof.2. Resealable pack according to claim 1, characterized in that the component (15) is formed as an element for repeatedly opening and resealing the enclosure (36), in particular as a label of a flexible sheet material, adhesively connected to the sealed protective enclosure (36).3. Resealable pack according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the sealed protective enclosure (36) comprises a barrier sheet (1), in particular a flexible barrier sheet, which is disposed around the charge (C) of smoking articles (S).4. Resealable pack according to claim 3, characterized in that the barrier sheet (1) or at least a portion (2a) of the barrier sheet (1) is transparent or semi-transparent.5. Resealable pack according to claim 4, characterized in that the component (15) is at least partially arranged on the transparent or semi- transparent barrier sheet (1) or on the transparent or semi-transparent portion (2a) of the barrier sheet (1).6. Resealable pack according to claim 3, characterized in that the barrier sheet (1) is non-transparent or opaque.7. Resealable pack according to at least one of claims 3 to 6, characterized in that the barrier sheet (1) comprises an access opening (10), wherein the component (15) covers the access opening (10) in an initial sealed state of the enclosure (36), wherein the component (15) is adapted and connected to the barrier sheet (1) in such a manner that the component (15) can be at least partly lifted from the barrier sheet (1) so as to uncover at least a portion of the access opening (10) for opening the enclosure (36), thereby enabling the user to access the smoking articles (S), and wherein the component (15) is adapted to subsequently cover the access opening (10) again for resealing the enclosure (36).8. Resealable pack according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the component (15) is entirely transparent or semi- transparent or in that a first portion (1 6a) of the component (15) is transparent or semi-transparent while a second portion (1 6b) of the component (15) is non-transparent or opaque.9. Resealable pack according to claim 7, characterized in that a first portion (1 6a) of the component (15) is formed as a transparent or semi- transparent window which is bordered along at least a portion of its circumference by a non-transparent or opaque margin which is formed by a second portion (1 6b) of the component (15), wherein the window and the access opening (10) overlap or substantially coincide in the sealed and/or resealed state of the enclosure (36).10. Resealable pack according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the component (15) is produced from a cellophane- based or a polypropylene-based sheet material. 1 1. Resealable pack according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the pack (P) further comprises a soft outer wrap (66) of a flexible sheet material or a rigid or semi-rigid outer case (100) and in that the charge (C) enclosed by the sealed protective enclosure (36) forms a resealable inner pack wrapped with the outer wrap (66) or contained in the outer case (100).12. Resealable pack according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the pack (P) further comprises a supporting frame (78; 55), in particular a frame (78; 55) made of a semi-rigid material, wherein the frame (78; 55) is disposed inside the enclosure (36) between a portion of the charge (C) of smoking articles (S) and a portion of the enclosure (36) or is disposed outside the enclosure (36) and covers a portion of the charge (C) enclosed by the sealed protective enclosure (36).13. Method for packaging smoking articles (S), comprising the steps of: - providing a charge (C) of smoking articles (S); and - enclosing the charge (C) by a sealed protective enclosure (36); wherein the enclosure (36) is adapted to be opened in order to enable a user to take one or more of the smoking articles (S) out of the pack (P); wherein the enclosure (36) is adapted to be subsequently resealed in order to restore protection for the charge (C) of smoking articles (S) or for a remainder of the charge (C) against aroma and freshness alteration; and wherein the enclosure (36) comprises a component (15) at least in part semi-transparent, preferably transparent, which enables the user to see the charge (C) or the remainder of the charge (C) from an outside of the enclosure (36) in the resealed state thereof.14. Method according to claim 13, characterized in that enclosing the charge (C) includes - providing a barrier sheet (1), in particular a flexible barrier sheet, which comprises an access opening (10), wherein the component (15) is adhesively connected to the barrier sheet (1) so as to cover the access opening (10); and - disposing the barrier sheet (1) around the charge (C).15. Method according to claim 13, characterized in that enclosing the charge (C) includes - providing a barrier sheet (1), in particular a flexible barrier sheet, which comprises a rupture line (3) along which the barrier sheet (1) is adapted to rupture for forming an access opening (10), wherein the component (15) is adhesively connected to the barrier sheet (1) so as to cover the rupture line (3) and the area (6) of the access opening (10) to be formed; and - disposing the barrier sheet (1) around the charge (C).


[EN] A kit of smoking apparatus for forming a smoking article is provided comprising a container, a pouch of loose tobacco provided within the container, a retaining member provided within the container, and an elongate smoking article making element adhered to the retaining member, wherein said elongate smoking article making element is removable from the retaining member by a user. [EN] 1. A kit of smoking apparatus for forming a smoking article comprising: a container;a pouch of loose tobacco provided within the container;a retaining member provided within the container; andan elongate smoking article making element adhered to the retaining member, wherein said elongate smoking article making element is removable from the retaining member by a user.2. A kit according to claim 1, wherein said elongate smoking article making element comprises one of: a stack of rolling paper, a paper tube or a stack of longitudinally aligned filter tips.3. A kit according to claims 1 or 2, wherein a plurality of elongate smoking article making elements are adhered to the retaining member and wherein each elongate smoking article making element is individually removable by a user.4. A kit according to claim 3, wherein each elongate smoking article making element is a stack of filter tips.5. A kit according to claims 3 or 4, wherein the container comprises an upper surface which can be moved so that the pouch of loose tobacco and elongate smoking article making elements are removable, and wherein said elongate smoking article making elements are positioned on the retaining member such that they extend in a longitudinal direction perpendicular to a plane extending through the upper surface of the container.6. A kit according to any of the preceding claims, wherein said retaining member is provided as a planar blank having first and second surfaces.7. A kit according to claim 6, wherein the one or more elongate smoking article making elements are adhered to the first surface only.8. A kit according to claim 7, wherein the second surface of the blank extends along, and abuts onto, an internal wall of the container.9. A kit according to claim 8, wherein said blank is folded in half about a fold line so as to obscure the second surface.10. A kit according to claim 9, wherein the container comprises an upper surface which can be moved so that the pouch of loose tobacco and the elongate smoking articles are removable, and wherein the fold line extends in a longitudinal direction of the container through the upper surface.11. A kit according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the container is a hinge-lid box.12. A process for making a kit according to any of the preceding claims comprising: providing a container and a pouch of loose tobacco;adhering one or more elongate smoking article making elements onto a retaining member; andinserting the retaining member, having elongate smoking article making elements adhered to it, and the pouch of loose tobacco into the container.13. A process according to claim 12, wherein each elongate smoking article making element is adhered to the retaining member by one or more dots of glue applied to the retaining member.14. A process according to claims 12 or 13, wherein the pouch and the retaining member, having elongate smoking article making elements adhered to it, are simultaneously inserted into the container.15. A process according to any of claims 12 to 14, further comprising forming the container from a blank of foldable material before insertion the retaining member, the adhered elongate smoking article making elements and the pouch of loose tobacco into the container.