SMOKING ARTICLE AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURING A SMOKING ARTICLE

Abstract

A smoking article comprising a first part, and a second part comprising a sleeve extending around at least a part of the first part of the smoking article. The smoking article defines one or more ventilation areas providing ventilation into a longitudinal end of the sleeve of the smoking article.

Description

The present invention relates generally to a smoking article, and more particularly, apparatuses and methods for a ventilated smoking article having a first part connected to a second part, and manufacture thereof.

Cigarettes typically contain a tobacco rod and a filter. Some cigarettes may be extendable, such as is shown in U.S. Pat. No. 2,820,462.

The present invention provides, in a first aspect, a smoking article comprising: a first part, and a second part comprising a sleeve extending around at least a part of the first part of the smoking article; wherein the smoking article defines one or more ventilation areas providing ventilation into a longitudinal end of the sleeve of the smoking article.

The present invention provides, in a second aspect, a method of manufacturing a smoking article comprising a first part and a second part, the method comprising: forming a first part of the smoking article; forming a second part of the smoking article in the form of a sleeve, connecting the second part to the first part such that the sleeve extends around at least a part of the first part of the smoking article; wherein at least one of the first part and/or second part of the smoking article are provided with one or more ventilation areas providing ventilation into a longitudinal end of the sleeve of the smoking article.

The present invention provides, in a third aspect, smoking article components comprising: a first component defining one or more ventilation areas, and a second component comprising a sleeve configured to extend around at least a part of the first component of the smoking article, wherein the one or more ventilation areas are configured to provide ventilation into a longitudinal end of the sleeve when the first and second components are connected.

The accompanying drawings illustrate various non-limiting, example, inventive aspects in accordance with the present disclosure:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of the smoking article;

FIG. 2 is a cut-away side elevation view of the smoking article of FIG. 1 in a retracted state;

FIG. 3 is a cut-away side elevation view of the smoking article of FIG. 1 in an extended state;

FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of the smoking article;

FIG. 5 is a cut-away perspective view of a part of the smoking article;

FIG. 6 is an enlarged perspective view of the part of FIG. 5;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of the smoking article

FIG. 8 is a is a cut-away side elevation view of a third embodiment of smoking article;

FIG. 9 is a is a cut-away side elevation view of a part of a smoking article according to any embodiment; and

FIG. 10 is a is a cut-away front elevation view of a part of a smoking article according to any embodiment.

FIGS. 1 to 3 show a first embodiment of a smoking article 10. The smoking article may be an article such as a cigarette, cigar or cigarillo, whether based on tobacco, tobacco derivatives, expanded tobacco, reconstituted tobacco or tobacco substitutes and also heat-not-burn products (i.e. products in which flavour is generated from a smoking material by the application of heat without causing combustion of the material). For convenience, these will be referred to as “smoking articles” in this specification.

The smoking article 10 comprises a first part having a source of smokable material, which may be a tobacco rod 11. The first part may comprise a first filter section 12 attached to the tobacco rod 11. The tobacco rod 11 and first filter section 12 are connected with a covering layer of sheet material, which will be described in more detail below. The covering layer may be formed of paper, which may be tipping paper. The material of the covering layer is substantially impermeable to air flow.

A second part of the smoking article comprises a sleeve 13 in the form of a cylindrical tube. The sleeve 13 extends around the circumference of the tobacco rod 11 and/or first filter section 12. The tobacco rod 11 and first filter section 12, are dimensioned to slide as a unit longitudinally within the sleeve 13. The tobacco rod 11, and optionally the first filter section 12, may be referred to as a tobacco unit, or as the body of the first part of the smoking article.

The second part may further comprises a second filter section 14 at a mouthpiece end of the sleeve 13, distal from the first filter section 12. The second filter section 14 is securely attached within the sleeve 13. The first and/or second filter sections 12, 14 may be made of a conventional cellulose acetate tow.

A chamber 15 is defined in the sleeve 13 between the first filter section 12 and second filter section 14. The chamber 15 has a variable length, and hence volume, as the first filter section 12 slides axially within the cylindrical sleeve 13. The chamber 15 has a length varying from zero to a predetermined maximum length. Relative movement of the first and second parts, i.e. sleeve 13 and tobacco rod 11 beyond the maximum length is prevented by a restraining means, which may comprise abutting surfaces on or adjacent to the tobacco rod 11 and sleeve 13, as will be described later.

FIG. 2 shows the smoking article 10 in a retracted state, with the tobacco rod 11 and first filter section 12 moved up to the second filter section 14. The length of the chamber 15 has been reduced to zero. The smoking article 10 is at its shortest overall length. The smoking article 10 may be packaged in the retracted state prior to use. The smoking article 10 may be returned to the retracted state after use, once the tobacco rod 11 has been partially or fully combusted.

FIG. 3 shows the smoking article 10 in an extended state, with the tobacco rod 11 and first filter section 12 moved as far as possible away from the second filter section 14. The length of the chamber 15 has been increased to its maximum. The smoking article 10 is at its longest length. The smoking article 10 may be in the extended state during use. The tobacco rod 11 and first filter section 12 are continuously positionable within the sleeve 13 to be in any partially extended position between the retracted and extended states.

The tobacco rod and attached filter are connected by the covering layer 16 (shown in FIG. 4). The covering layer may be standard tipping paper, or a relatively thick tipping paper, or a board type tipping paper. Alternatively, the covering layer may be a tube formed of any material surrounding the tobacco unit, and may attach the first filter to the source of smokable material. In particular, such a tube may be made of a plastics material, for example, a plastic made from corn starch. Alternatively, the tube may be made from a ceramic material. Alternatively, the tube may be formed from foil, metal or metallised paper.

FIGS. 4 to 6 show further details of the construction of a smoking article according to the invention. The smoking article comprises 10 a restraining means to control longitudinal movement between the first and second parts. In some aspects, the restraining means prevents separation of the first and second part of a smoking article. The restraining means limits relative longitudinal movement between the first and second parts (source of smokable material and movable sleeve). The restraining means allows relative rotation between the sleeve and source of smokable material. The restraining means maintains the sleeve 13 attached to the tobacco unit 11. The restraining means comprises a first engaging surface 32 on the first part, and attached to the tobacco unit. The first engaging surface 32 is engagable with a second engaging surface 31 attached to the second part i.e. located on the sleeve 13.

FIG. 4 shows an exploded view of smoking article 10, in which a tobacco rod 11 and first filter section 12 are joined by a covering layer 16 in the form of a strip of sheet material, for example, tipping paper, as is conventionally known and described above. The covering layer 16 may be made of a relatively heavy weight paper. The covering layer 16 may have an overlapping section 16a which is affixed to an overlapped part of the covering layer 16, for example with an adhesive. The tobacco rod 11, first filter section 12 and covering layer 16 are substantially formed as a conventional cigarette, with further details of the covering layer 16 described below. The first and second filter sections are preferably harder than a typical cigarette filter. Preferably, the smoking article includes either a first filter or any other relatively hard substance at the end of the tobacco rod 11.

The sheet material of the covering layer 16 is wrapped around the body of the tobacco unit, and extends radially outwardly from the source of smokable material and/or first filter. The covering layer 16 which connects the tobacco rod 11 and first filter section 12 defines the first engaging surface 32 of the restraining means. The first engaging surface 32 is the surface of the wrapped sheet material which extends radially outwardly from the source of smokable material, and faces in an axially forward direction.

Alternatively, the first engaging surface may be formed on a folded section of sheet material, wrapped around the tobacco unit. A fold is formed adjacent a rearward end of the sheet material, such that a folded section extends outwardly and forwardly. The first engaging surface is formed on a forward facing edge of the folded section.

The first filter 12 or other hard substance adjacent to the tipping paper 16 assists in creating or maintaining the first engaging surface 32 onto which the sleeve 13 can abut to prevent the tobacco rod 11 from separating from the sleeve 13.

FIG. 5 shows a perspective sectional view of sleeve 13. The sleeve 13 has a forward end 17a which surrounds the tobacco unit when assembled. The sleeve 13 has a rearward end 17b, for receiving the second filter 14, and forming a mouthpiece end of the smoking article.

The sleeve 13 may be formed from a sheet material, and in particular, a paper material. In particular, the sleeve 13 may be formed of a relatively heavy weight paper.

At the forward end 17a of the sleeve 13, a projecting section 18 extends radially inwardly. The projecting section 18 may be formed by folding inwardly the sleeve material at the forward end 17a to form an overlap. In particular, the projecting section 18 is formed by a fold in the material of the sleeve 13, in a radially inward direction, such that the folded sheet material is adjacent to an interior surface of the sleeve 13. The projecting section may be folded by approximately 180 degrees.

The second engaging surface 31 of the restraining means is formed on the projecting section 18. The second engaging surface 31 is the surface extending radially inwardly from the cylindrical sleeve, and facing in an axially rearward direction. The second engaging surface 31 is within the cylindrical sleeve.

FIG. 6 is an enlarged view of the forward end 17a of the sleeve 13. The projecting section 18 is shown in more detail. The projecting section 18 extends around substantially the whole circumference of the sleeve, providing a continuous second engaging surface around the circumference. The sleeve 13 is formed of a strip of material which is curled into a cylinder. The long sides of the sleeve 13 are brought together and overlapped to form an overlap section 19. The overlap section 19 of the sleeve 13 overlies and is affixed to the opposite side of the sheet material forming the sleeve. In some aspects, the overlap section 19 is affixed with adhesive. The overlap section 19 does not provide material for the projecting section 18 at the forward end 17a of the sleeve. A cut-out is defined on the overlap section 19. The cut-out has the same or slightly larger height than the overlap section 19 in a direction laterally across the sleeve blank. The cut-out has substantially the same width as the material forming the projecting section 18, in a direction longitudinally along the sleeve blank. Thus, the projecting section 18 provides a uniform second engaging surface substantially around the whole circumference of the sleeve 13. The projecting section 18 has a substantially uniform radial extent around the circumference, since the cut-out ensures the overlap section 19 does not contribute to the projecting section 18. The cut-out thus prevents a doubling of material thickness on the projecting section 18. Alternatively, the projecting section may not be provided with a cut-out, and may have a double layer of material at the overlap section.

The position or movement of the first part relative to the second part, e.g. longitudinal position or movement, may determine one or more of the filtration attributes or ventilation of the smoking article, or release of a smoke modifying agent (e.g. flavourant).

FIG. 7 shows a second embodiment of the smoking article 20. The smoking article 20 comprises a cylinder of tobacco 21 surrounded by, and attached to, a sleeve 23 to form a tobacco rod. The cylinder of tobacco 21 does not move relative to the sleeve 23. The sleeve 23 has a section 23a extending rearwardly of the tobacco 21. A filter 24 is longitudinally slidable within the sleeve section 23a. A chamber 25 is formed by the tubular section 23a, between the tobacco 21 and the filter 24.

The smoking article 20 functions in a similar manner to smoking article 10. Smoking article 20 differs in that the sleeve forming the chamber 25 is fixedly attached to the tobacco rod, not the mouthpiece filter 24. Smoking article 20 also differs by not having a filter attached directly to the tobacco 21. A further embodiment of the present invention may have only one of these features or differences.

The smoking article of FIG. 7 has an analogous restraining means, preventing relative movement of the sleeve 23 and filter 24 beyond a maximum extent. In some aspects, the restraining means comprises engaging surfaces on or adjacent to the sleeve 23a and filter 24. The sleeve 23a defines a first engaging section (not shown) formed on an inwardly folded section. The folded section may be folded by approximately 180 degrees. The filter 24 defines a second engaging surface (not shown) which can abut the first engaging section and limit movement. The second engaging surface is formed adjacent the forward end of the filter 24, and may be formed by an outwardly folded over section of filter wrapping material. The folded section may be folded by approximately 180 degrees. Alternatively, the second engaging surface may be formed on or one or more layers of sheet material (e.g. tipping paper) wrapped around a part of the filter 24. The second engaging surface may be formed on a part of the sheet material containing and supporting the filter material, termed plugwrap.

FIG. 8 shows a third embodiment of smoking article 100. The smoking article 100 has substantially the same construction as the smoking article 10 described in FIGS. 1 to 6, with the difference that the smoking article 100 is not extendable. The smoking article 100 comprises a first part which is rotatable relative to the first part without longitudinal movement. The smoking article 100 is configured to stop relative longitudinal movement between the first and second parts.

The smoking article 100 comprises a first part having a source of smokable material, which may be a tobacco rod 111. The first part may comprise a first filter section 112 attached to the tobacco rod 111. The tobacco rod 111 and first filter section 112 are connected with a covering layer of sheet material 116, which will be described in more detail below. The covering layer 116 may be formed of paper, for example, tipping paper. The material of the covering layer is substantially impermeable to air flow.

A second part of the smoking article comprises a sleeve 113 in the form of a cylindrical tube. The sleeve 113 extends around the circumference of the tobacco rod 111 and/or first filter section 112. The tobacco rod 111 and first filter section 112, are dimensioned to slide as a unit longitudinally within the sleeve 113. The tobacco rod 111 and first filter section 112 may be referred to as a tobacco unit, or as the body of the first part of the smoking article.

The second part may further comprise a second filter section 114 at a mouthpiece end of the sleeve 113, adjacent to the first filter section 112. The second filter section 114 is securely attached within the sleeve 113. The first and/or second filter sections 112, 114 may be made of a conventional cellulose acetate tow.

The first and second filter sections 112,114 may be abutting, such that no chamber is defined in the sleeve 113 between the first filter section 12 and second filter section 14.

The tobacco rod and attached filter are connected by the covering layer 116. The covering layer may be standard tipping paper, or a relatively thick tipping paper, or a board type tipping paper. Alternatively, the covering layer may be a tube formed of any material surrounding the tobacco unit, and may attach the first filter to the source of smokable material. In particular, such a tube may be made of a plastics material, for example, a plastic made from corn starch. Alternatively, the tube may be made from a ceramic material. Alternatively, the tube may be formed from foil, metal or metallised paper.

The restraining means comprises a first engaging surface 132 on the first part, and attached to the tobacco unit. The first engaging surface 132 is engagable with a second engaging surface 131 attached to the second part i.e. located on the sleeve 113.

The tobacco rod 111 and first filter section 112 are joined by a covering layer 116 in the form of a strip of sheet material, for example tipping paper, as is conventionally known and described above. The covering layer 116 may be made of a relatively heavy weight paper. The covering layer 116 may have an overlapping section which is affixed to an overlapped part of the covering layer 16, for example with an adhesive, substantially as described above. The tobacco rod 111, first filter section 112 and covering layer 116 are substantially formed as a conventional cigarette, with further details of the covering layer 116 described below. The first and second filter sections may be harder than a typical cigarette filter. In some aspects, the smoking article includes either a first filter or any other relatively hard substance at the end of the tobacco rod 111.

The sheet material of the covering layer 116 is wrapped around the body of the tobacco unit, and extends radially outwardly from the source of smokable material and/or first filter. The covering layer 116 which connects the tobacco rod 111 and first filter section 112 defines the first engaging surface 132 of the restraining means. The first engaging surface 132 is the surface of the wrapped sheet material which extends radially outwardly from the source of smokable material, and faces in an axially forward direction.

Alternatively, the first engaging surface may be formed on a folded section of sheet material, wrapped around the tobacco unit. A fold is formed adjacent a rearward end of the sheet material, such that a folded section extends outwardly and forwardly. The first engaging surface is formed on a forward facing edge of the folded section.

The first filter 112 or other hard substance adjacent to the tipping paper 116 assists in creating or maintaining the first engaging surface 132 onto which the sleeve 113 can abut to prevent the tobacco rod 111 from moving longitudinally relative to the sleeve 113.

The sleeve 113 may be formed from a sheet material, and in particular, a paper material. In particular, the sleeve 113 may be formed of a relatively heavy weight paper.

At a forward end of the sleeve 113, a projecting section 118 extends radially inwardly. The projecting section 118 may be formed by folding inwardly the sleeve material at the forward end to form an overlap. In particular, the projecting section 118 is formed by a fold in the material of the sleeve 113, in a radially inward direction, such that the folded sheet material is adjacent to an interior surface of the sleeve 113. The projecting section may be folded by approximately 180 degrees.

The second engaging surface 131 of the restraining means is formed on the projecting section 118. The second engaging surface 131 is the surface extending radially inwardly from the cylindrical sleeve, and facing in an axially rearward direction. The second engaging surface 131 is within the cylindrical sleeve.

The first and second parts may be rotated without allowing or actuating a change in the length of the smoking article. The restraining means allows rotation of the sleeve, and does not allow relative longitudinal movement between the sleeve and a source of smokable material. The restraining means may be arranged such that the chamber is of a fixed length, which may be zero. In some aspects, the smoking article 100 is configured to maintain the first and second parts in a single longitudinal relative position or formation. The first and second engaging surfaces of the restraining means are configured to substantially prevent extension of the smoking article.

The first and second engaging surfaces abut when the first filter section is abutting the second filter section. The first and second engaging surfaces stop extension or longitudinal movement in a first longitudinal direction, and the abutting first and second filter sections stop longitudinal movement in the opposite direction, to allow rotation and stop longitudinal movement. The restraining means may allow relative rotation between two adjacent filter sections.

The movement of the first part relative to the second part, e.g. by rotational movement may determine one or more of the filtration attributes or ventilation of the smoking article, or release of a smoke modifying agent (e.g. flavourant).

The smoking article 10,20,100 of any embodiment is configured to provide ventilation between the first and second parts. In particular, the restraining means of the smoking article 10,20,100 is configured to allow ventilation, i.e. air flow into the smoking article. In some aspects, the first engaging surface 32,132 is configured to allow air flow therethrough in a longitudinal direction.

FIGS. 9 and 10 show the smoking article 10 configured to provide ventilation. For simplicity, FIGS. 9 and 10 are numbered according to the embodiment of FIGS. 1 to 6, however, the features of FIGS. 9 and 10 are applicable to any embodiment described.

The smoking article is configured to allow ventilating air to initially enter the smoking between the first and second parts. The smoking article comprises an intake open or facing in a longitudinal direction, in particular, forwardly in the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 6 and 8, and rearwardly in the embodiment of FIG. 7. The ventilation intake comprises one or more ventilation areas allowing entry of ventilating air within the sleeve. The ventilation areas may be in the form of one or more openings or channels 40 extending substantially longitudinally. In some embodiments, the channels 40 extend through a section of the first part, to allow ventilating air into the smoking article rearwardly of the first part. In particular, the ventilating air exits the ventilation areas into a chamber rearwardly of the first part. The channels 40 allow ventilating air into the second part of the smoking article. In some embodiments, the channels 40 allow ventilating air into a longitudinal end of the sleeve of the second part, for example, a forward longitudinal end. In some aspects, the longitudinal end faces at least partially in a longitudinal direction of the elongate smoking article, in particular, a forward facing end surface. For a sleeve in the form of a tube of circular cross-section, the longitudinal end is an open end of circular cross-section, at a longitudinal extreme end of the tube, within the circumferential body of the sleeve defining the exterior hollow tube. In some examples, the channels 40 are spaced from an external surface of the first part. The channels 40 are not open to a radially outer surface of the first part, e.g. around which the sleeve is movable. The channels are passageways through which air can only enter or exit at the longitudinally spaced inlet and exit. The inlet and exit of the channels are both circumscribed by the movable sleeve of the second part. The channels 40 are radially exterior to the body of the first part, and radially within the sleeve (exterior tube) of the second part. The first part is movable relative to the second part.

The exterior of the tubular sleeve of the second part extends longitudinally and circumferentially around the whole length and circumference of the ventilation areas and/or the radially extending portion of the first part. The exterior of the tubular sleeve refers to the major part of the tubular sleeve, or outer layer(s), and not a minor part extending only over a part of the length of the major part or defining the second engaging surface. The exterior or major part of the tubular sleeve can comprise one, two or more layers of material. Each layer of the exterior of the sleeve extends the full length and circumference of the sleeve, and each layer provides a connection between the mouth end of the smoking article, e.g. second filter section, and the first part of the smoking article e.g. first filter section or tobacco rod. Thus, the second engaging surface is defined radially within, and distinct from, the exterior or major part of the sleeve.

In some examples, the channels 40 are formed in a portion of the first part which extends radially beyond an adjacent body of the first. Such portion also forms the first engaging surface for contact with the second part of the smoking article, .e.g. to limit extension. The channels are located radially outside of the body of the first part of the smoking article, for example, radially outside of rod articles of the first filter section and/or tobacco rod. Thus, the channels are not formed within a filter section, but are formed radially outside of a filter section. An air intake is on a forwardly facing surface of the radially extending portion. An air exit from the channel is on a rearwardly facing surface of the radially extending portion. The channels extend substantially longitudinally through the whole length of the radially extending portion. For example, the ventilation areas are at least on a radially inner area of the radially extending portion, and optionally are only on a radially inner area. In some examples, the ventilation areas do not extend to a radial outer surface, or alternatively, only extend within a radial inner half of the first engaging surface. The radially extending portion can be in the form of an annular ring attached to a body of the first part. The annular ring defines the channels, for example, at a radially inner side of the annular ring. The channels can be open to a radially inner side of the annular ring. The channels are passageways with only a longitudinally spaced inlet and exit when the annular ring is affixed around the body of the first part.

In some embodiments, radially extending portion defining the one or more channels 40 is formed by the covering layer 16. The channels 40 extend longitudinally when the covering layer 16 is wrapped around the body of the tobacco unit. The first engaging surface 32,132 is configured to provide ventilation by defining the channels 40. The covering layer 16 defines an annulus around the tobacco unit, having an interior surface 41 and an exterior surface 42. The interior surface 41 is in contact with the tobacco unit, and is may be adhered to an exterior surface of the tobacco unit. The exterior surface 42 may be adjacent to, and may contact, an interior surface of the sleeve 13. The channels 40 may be defined adjacent to the interior surface 41 of the covering layer 16. The plurality of channels 40 may extend uniformly through the whole length of the covering layer 16, and may be circumferentially spaced around the whole circumference of the covering layer 16. The ventilation areas are defined between two parts of the smoking article. In particular, the covering layer 16 defines channels having an open side. The open side is covered by a separate part of the smoking article, for example, an exterior of the body of the first part to form a tubular channel. In some aspects, the exterior of the body of the first part may be air permeable or non-permeable material surrounding the first filter and/or tobacco rod.

The channels 40 can be grooves in the interior surface 41 of the covering layer 16. In some examples, the channels 40 are defined by the grooves in the interior surface 41 and an exterior surface of the tobacco unit. The grooves may be defined by the exterior surface of the first filter 12 (as shown), and/or by the exterior surface of the tobacco rod. Between each channel, the interior surface 41 extends radially inwardly of the channels 40, and contacts the exterior surface of the tobacco unit, such that each channel is independent. A forward end of the channels 40 at a forward end of the covering layer 16 provides a ventilation air intake, and a rearward end of the channels 40 at a rearward end of the covering layer 16 provides an exit within the second part, i.e. within the sleeve. In some aspects, the ventilation areas provide a plurality of discrete ventilation openings, which are not substantially affected by external pressure on the smoking article.

The covering layer 16 defining the channels may not connect the first filter 12 and tobacco rod, in particular, when the covering layer 16 extends only around the first filter 12 as shown. A separate covering layer or wrap (not shown) may connect the first filter 12 and tobacco rod. The layer 16 may extend around the connecting layer, and define the channels 40 in association with an exterior surface of the connecting layer.

The covering layer which defines the channels also defines the first engaging surface. The channels 40, in particular a forward end of the channels, extend into the first engaging surface 32. The channels 40 are defined on a radially inner part of the first engaging surface 32. The second engaging surface 31 may be configured to engage with the first engaging surface 32 on a radially outer part of the first engaging surface 32. In particular, the second engaging surface 31 and projecting section 18 has a radial extent which is less than or equal to a radial extent of the first engaging surface 32 radially outwardly of the channels 40. Therefore, the second engaging surface 31 does not block the channels 40. In some aspects, the

The covering layer 16 may be formed of a sheet material, for example paper, which may be thicker than standard tipping paper. In some embodiments, the channels 40 are formed only on the interior surface 41, and the exterior surface has a uniform radius without grooves. The grooves may be formed in the paper by any suitable means, for example, by embossing. Alternatively, the grooves may be formed in both the interior and exterior surfaces, e.g. the covering layer is corrugated. Alternatively, channels may be formed in a radially central part of the covering layer, instead of or in addition to on the interior or exterior surface. For example, the covering layer may be a laminate of a first sheet material defining channels or formed of circumferentially spaced strips of material, and a second sheet material without channels or grooves. Alternatively, the covering layer may be formed of any material or a solid body which defines a longitudinally facing surface having one or ventilation areas. Alternatively, the covering layer comprises a first and second layer of material arranged co-axially. The channels are formed in at least one of the first and second layers. In particular, the inner of the first and second layers defines the channels. The outer of the first and second layers defines a continuous surface extending around the channels, and optionally, forming an exterior surface of the channels. In some examples, the inner of the first and second layers comprises a plurality of circumferentially spaced sections of material. The channels are defined by the circumferential space between the sections. The outer layer extends radially over the sections and channels. In some aspects, the first and second layers are integrally formed, e.g. by a sheet material. The sheet material is folded to define the first and second layers both extending longitudinally as substantially complete tubes around the body of the first part. The inner of the first and second layers comprises sections which are circumferentially separate. For example, the sheet material can be cut or formed to define such sections. The outer of the first and second layers is substantially continuous. The outer of the first and second layers is connected to the separate sections of the inner layer. Thus, the separate strips and outer layer can be attached to the body of the first part as a single part, providing ease of manufacture.

The channels 40 allow flow of air, or ventilation, into the smoking article. In particular, the ventilation air exit is an area at a rearward edge of the first part, and in particular, at a rearward edge of the covering layer 16. In some aspects, the ventilation air is directed into the second filter 14, or into a chamber 15 between the first and second filters 12, 14, as described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 9. The ventilation areas can provide ventilation air directly into the chamber, and in particular, into a longitudinal end surface of the chamber. In some aspects, the ventilation channels extend around the first part, and in particular, the first filter. The ventilation channels provide for passage of the ventilation air rearwardly of the first part.

The ventilation air intake is spaced from a rearward, or mouthpiece, end of the smoking article. The location of the ventilation intake avoids a typical location where a user places their fingers to hold the smoking article. In addition, the location of the ventilation intake could result in reduced sidestream smoke.

The channels 40 provide ventilation without requiring the forming of separate ventilation apertures or perforations in the sleeve or tobacco unit. Alternatively, ventilation apertures or perforations may additionally be located in the sleeve and tobacco unit. The channels 40 then reduce the number of additional ventilation apertures or perforations required to obtain a selected ventilation. The present invention avoids, or reduces, the need to form ventilation apertures or perforations, e.g. by laser.

The first engaging surface 32 has a first function of defining channels 40, providing ventilation. The first engaging surface 32 also has a second function as part of a restraining means, controlling longitudinal movement between the first and second parts. The covering layer 16, on which the first engaging surface 32 is formed, may optionally have a third function of connecting the first filter and tobacco rod.

In some aspects, the present invention provides a method of manufacturing a smoking article. The smoking article comprises a first part and a second part, which may be substantially as described. The method comprises providing a first part of the smoking article; and providing a second part of the smoking article in the form of a sleeve. The method includes connecting the second part to the first part such that the sleeve extends around at least a part of the first part of the smoking article. In some aspects, at least one of the first part and/or second part of the smoking article is provided with one or more ventilation areas providing ventilation into a longitudinal end of the sleeve of the smoking article.

Optionally, the method may include connecting the first and second parts such that the first part is movable relative to the second part. For example, the second part may be movable longitudinally relative to the first part and/or the second part is movable rotationally relative to the first part.

Optionally, the method may comprise forming a first engaging surface on the first part; and forming a second engaging surface on the second part. The first and second parts may be connected such that the first engaging surface is configured to engage with the second engaging surface to limit or control relative longitudinal movement between the first and second parts. As described above, the first and/or second engaging surface may define the one or more ventilation areas providing ventilation into the smoking article. Optionally, the method may comprise wrapping a covering layer of sheet material around a body of the first part, wherein the one or more ventilation areas and/or first engaging surface are defined by the covering layer.

The present invention may further comprise components of a smoking article. The components may be used in the manufacture of a smoking article. The components may comprise a first component, which in some aspects may be a covering layer at least partially defining one or more ventilation areas or channels as described above. The components may further comprise a second component, which in some aspects comprises a sleeve extending around at least a part of the first part of the smoking article. The first component defines one or more ventilation areas providing ventilation into a longitudinal end of the sleeve. The components may be the same as the corresponding parts of the smoking article described above. The components may be affixed to one or more filters and/or source of smokable material to form a smoking article.

The first engaging surface of the restraining means has been described in some embodiments as formed by a sheet of material connecting the source of smokable material to a filter. Alternatively, the first engaging surface may be formed in any embodiment by any radially extending surface. In particular, the first engaging surface may be formed by a sheet of material wrapped one or more times around the source of smokable material or around the first filter, and not connecting the source of smokable material to a filter. The first engaging surface of any embodiment may be formed on a portion of sheet material which is folded radially outwardly, and folded forwardly to overlie the tobacco unit or filter.

The ventilation areas have been described as formed in the first engaging surface. Alternatively, the channels may be formed in the second engaging surface 31, or in both the first and second engaging surfaces. The ventilation areas allow ventilating air within an exterior surface of the sleeve. The ventilation areas may be defined on a radially interior surface of the second engaging means 31, adjacent to the first part of the smoking article. The channels or grooves may be formed in the folded section, for example by corrugations in the projecting section. Alternatively, the sleeve may comprise an inner layer and an outer layer. The second engaging means may be formed by an inner layer extending only around a forward end of the sleeve. For example, such an inner layer may have longitudinal corrugations forming channels. The ventilation apertures in the second engaging means may allow ventilation air to enter within the sleeve, without any ventilation areas in the first part of the smoking article. In this embodiment, the ventilating air may pass around the first engaging surface. Alternatively, the first engaging surface may also comprise one or more ventilation apertures, and aligned ventilation apertures in the first and second engaging surfaces provides for ventilation.

The ventilation areas have been described as longitudinally extending channels. Alternatively, the ventilation areas may have any form allowing flow of air between an exterior and interior of the smoking article. For example, the ventilation areas may be one or more openings of any shape or orientation. Alternatively, the ventilation areas may be formed by an air permeable material.

The channels have been described as longitudinally extending. For example, the channels may extend at an angle to the longitudinal axis. The term “longitudinally” can mean that an air intake and exit for the channels are longitudinally spaced, and does not imply that the channels extend in a solely longitudinal direction. However, the channels can extend only in a substantially longitudinal direction.

The channels have been described as not extending to a radially outer surface of the first part. Alternatively, the channels can extend to a radially outer surface of the first part. The channels are open channels. The sleeve of the second part extends around the open channels.

The first and/or second engaging surface of any embodiment may be formed by an embossed surface. In particular, embossing may be used instead of folding sheet material in any embodiment, including when the first or second part is formed from a single layer only of sheet material. The ventilation channels or grooves may be formed in the embossed surface.

Any of the features of any embodiment may be combined with any of the features of any other embodiment. In particular, any of the embodiments of smoking article may or may not have a filter section adjoining the cylinder of tobacco, or may not have a filter section at the mouthpiece end of the sleeve.

The second engaging surface has been described as formed on a folded section. Alternatively, the second engaging surface may be formed by embossing the material of the sleeve. An embossed area, substantially corresponding to projecting section 18, has an increased thickness which functions as a stop. The second engaging surface 31 may be defined by the embossed section, and engagable with the first engaging surface to restrain the first and second parts of the smoking article.

The sleeve 13 is formed from one or more layers of sheet material, and may comprise two layers of sheet material, an inner layer and an outer layer. The inner layer and outer layer both form complete tubes, both extending longitudinally to connect the second filter section with the tobacco unit. The second engaging surface extends radially inwardly of the inner layer. In some aspects, the sheet material is paper. The outer layer may be adhered to the inner layer. The inner and outer layers may be formed from a single sheet of material wrapped twice around the filters, or may be formed from two separate sheets of material affixed together. The projecting section and second engaging surface may be formed only on the inner layer.

The first and second engaging surfaces may extend circumferentially. Alternatively, the first and/or second engaging surface may be angled relative to a circumferential direction. The angled first and/or second engaging surfaces may be arranged such that relative rotation actuates relative longitudinal movement.

The first and second parts of the smoking article may be movable relative to each other, i.e. one or both of longitudinally and rotationally movable. Alternatively, the first and second parts may be connected without allowing any movement. For example, the first and second engaging surfaces may prevent rotation and longitudinal movement, or the sleeve 13 may be adhered to an exterior surface of the covering layer. Alternatively, the sleeve 13 may not comprise a second engaging surface. The first engaging surface may then be considered as a surface defining one or more ventilation areas or channels providing for ventilation, for example, into the sleeve. The covering layer may optionally connect the tobacco rod and first filter section. Any other feature described above may be used in combination with this embodiment.

One or more of the filter sections may be formed of a single segment of filter material or a plurality of segments. A filter section formed of a plurality of segments may comprise segments made of different materials or having different filtration properties. In particular, a filter section may comprise a standard segment of cellulose acetate tow and a further segment of filtration material including charcoal. Alternatively, the filter section may be a single segment incorporating charcoal.

One or more additives or flavourants may be present in only one of the first or second filter sections 12,14, or in both first and second filter sections. In particular, the second filter section 14 only may comprise charcoal, and the first filter section 12 may not comprise charcoal. Alternatively, the first filter section 12 only may comprise charcoal, and the second filter section 14 may not comprise charcoal. Alternatively, the sheet material surrounding the tobacco rod, first or second filters may comprise tobacco.

The embodiments above have been described as having a filter section at the mouth end of the sleeve. Alternatively, the sleeve may not contain a filter section. In this case, the sleeve defines the chamber between the tobacco unit and the mouthpiece end of the sleeve. Alternatively, the second filter section may be replaced by a stain binder. The smoking article may not have a first filter section affixed to a rearward end of the tobacco rod. The embodiments described above may have at least one filter section, attached to one or both of the source of smokable material and the mouthpiece end of the sleeve. Alternatively, the smoking article may not include any filter section.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 8, the first and second filter sections 112,114 have been described as separate filter sections. Alternatively, the first and second filter section 112,114 may be integrally formed. The first and second filter section 112,114 may be defined by a laterally extending cut or gap around a radially exterior part of the first and second filter section 112,114. A central core connects first and second filter section 112,114. The central core is formed of filtration material, integrally formed with the first and second filter section 112,114. The first and second filter section 112,114 can rotate relative to each other around the central core.

Claims

1. A smoking article comprising:

a first part comprising at least one rod article, and

a second part comprising a sleeve extending around at least a portion of the first part; and

an at least one ventilation area configured to provide ventilation into a longitudinal end of the sleeve of the smoking article,

wherein the first part is movable relative to the second part.

2. The smoking article as claimed in claim 1, wherein the second part is movable at least one of longitudinally and rotationally, relative to the first part.

3. The smoking article as claimed in claim 1, wherein

the first part comprises a first engaging surface;

the second part comprises a second engaging surface, wherein the second engaging surface is engagable with the first engaging surface to control relative longitudinal movement between the first and second parts; and

wherein at least one of the first engaging surface and the second engaging surface defines the at least one ventilation area.

4. The smoking article as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one ventilation area defines a plurality of openings between an exterior surface of the sleeve and at least one of:

an exterior surface of a first filter;

a source of smokable material of the first part of the smoking article; and

an interior of the sleeve.

5. The smoking article as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one ventilation area comprises an at least one longitudinally extending channel.

6. The smoking article as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first part comprises a portion extending one of radially beyond a body of the first part and within an exterior of the second part of the smoking article, the radially extending portion at least one of:

comprising the at least one ventilation area;

comprising a first engaging surface engagable with the second part to control relative longitudinal movement between the first and second parts; and

comprising a second engaging surface engagable with the first part to control relative longitudinal movement between the first and second parts.

7. The smoking article as claimed in claim 1, wherein a radially extending portion comprising the at least one ventilation area is movable relative to one of the first part and the second part, and wherein an exterior of the sleeve extends longitudinally and circumferentially around the whole length and circumference of at least one of:

the at least one ventilation area, and

a radially extending portion comprising at least one ventilation area.

8. The smoking article as claimed in claim 6, wherein the at least one ventilation area is located on a radially inner area of the radially extending portion.

9. The smoking article as claimed in claim 6, wherein the radially extending portion comprises an at least one channel on a radially inner surface of the radially extending portion, wherein the at least one channel defines at least one ventilation area.

10. The smoking article as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first part comprises a covering layer circumscribing a body of the first part of the smoking article; and wherein at least one of the at least one ventilation area and the first engaging surface is defined by the covering layer.

11. The smoking article as claimed in claim 10 wherein the covering layer defines the at least one ventilation area, at or adjacent to a radially inner surface of the covering layer.

12. The smoking article as claimed in claim 10, wherein the covering layer connects a source of smokable material to a first filter section.

13. The smoking article as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one ventilation area is defined by an at least one layer of sheet material.

14. The smoking article as claimed in claim 3, wherein at least one of the first engaging surface and the second engaging surface is formed on a folded over portion of sheet material.

15. The smoking article as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first part comprises at least one of a source of smokable material and a first filter section, and wherein the second part comprises a sleeve surrounding a second filter section.

16. The smoking article as claimed in claim 1, wherein the smoking article is configured to maintain the first and second parts at a single relative longitudinal position.

17. The smoking article as claimed in claim 3, wherein at least one of:

the first engaging surface and the second engaging surface are configured to stop longitudinal movement in a first longitudinal direction, and

a first filter section of the first part abuts a second filter section of the second part to stop longitudinal movement in a second direction.

18. The smoking article as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first part is configured to be longitudinally slidable relative to the second part, and wherein the smoking article comprises a variable length chamber.

19. The smoking article as claimed in claim 1, wherein at least one of the first part and the second part comprises a filter section, and wherein the at least one ventilation area provides ventilation to at least one filter section.

20. A method of manufacturing a smoking article comprising a first part and a second part, the method comprising:

forming a first part of the smoking article comprising at least one rod article;

forming a second part of the smoking article in the form of a sleeve; and

connecting the second part to the first part such that the sleeve extends around at least a part of the first part of the smoking article;

wherein at least one of the first part and the second part of the smoking article comprises an least one ventilation area configured to provide ventilation into a longitudinal end of the sleeve of the smoking article, and

wherein the first part is movable relative to the second part.

21. The method as claimed in claim 20,

wherein the second part is movable at least one of longitudinally and rotationally relative to the first part.

22. The method as claimed in claim 20, further comprising:

forming a first engaging surface on the first part;

forming a second engaging surface on the second part;

connecting the first and second parts such that the first engaging surface is configured to engage with the second engaging surface to control relative longitudinal movement between the first and second parts, and

wherein at least one of the first and the second engaging surfaces defines the at least one ventilation area providing ventilation into the smoking article.

23. The method as claimed in claim 20, further comprising wrapping a covering layer of sheet material around a body of the first part, wherein at least one of the at least one ventilation area and the first engaging surface is defined by the covering layer.

24. Smoking article components comprising:

a first component comprising at least one rod article and defining at least one ventilation area, and

a second component comprising a sleeve configured to extend around at least a part of the first component of the smoking article,

wherein the at least one ventilation area is configured to provide ventilation into a longitudinal end of the sleeve when the first and second components are movably connected.

25. The smoking article as claimed in claim 8, wherein the at least one ventilation area is located only on a radially inner area of the radially extending portion.

26. The smoking article as claimed in claim 9, wherein the at least one channel defines the at least one ventilation area in association with an adjacent surface of the first part of the smoking article.

27. The smoking article as claimed in claim 11, wherein a radially outer surface of the covering layer does not define the ventilation areas.

28. The smoking article as claimed in claim 18, wherein the at least one ventilation area is configured to provide ventilation to the chamber.