METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR MIXING A SMOKABLE PRODUCT

Abstract

The present invention relates methods and apparatuses for hydrating a smokable filler or tobacco product. More particularly, the present invention relates to methods for hydrating and smoking a smokable filler or tobacco product packaged for sale and for packaging a smokable filler or tobacco product for sale and apparatuses for hydrating a smokable filler or tobacco product packaged for sale. In one embodiment, separate volumes of fluid and dried tobacco are in separate chambers of a common package. In another embodiment, separate volumes of fluid and dried tobacco are in separate chambers separated by a valve that can be opened to enable a mix of the fluid with the dried tobacco material.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 62/317,344, filed on 1 Apr. 2016, and U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 62/198,971, filed on 30 Jul. 2015, both of which are incorporated herein by reference and priority of/to which are hereby claimed.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

Not applicable

REFERENCE TO A “MICROFICHE APPENDIX”

Not applicable

BACKGROUND

Various embodiments relate to methods and apparatuses for hydrating a smokable product. More particularly, in one embodiment the present invention relates to methods for hydrating and smoking a smokable product packaged for sale and for packaging a smokable product for sale and apparatuses for hydrating a smokable product packaged for sale.

Taxes, duties, and tariffs on tobacco and tobacco products can be based on the weight of the tobacco including the moisture content of the tobacco.

BRIEF SUMMARY

Various embodiments address the issues relate to tobacco weight and moisture content by providing packaging preferably including a tobacco product having a lower moisture content and including means for hydrating said tobacco product prior to smoking.

Various embodiments relate generally to methods for hydrating and smoking a smokable filler product packaged for sale. The present invention may preferably comprise the steps of:

(a) obtaining a packaged smokable filler product

having a top and bottom and comprising:

• • an interior containing smokable filler and located between the top and bottom;
  • an openable and reclosable seal positioned next to the top;
  • at least one upper notch positioned next to the openable and reclosable seal;
  • at least one lower notch positioned next to the bottom; and
  • a funneling portion located next to the bottom and adjacent the least one lower notch;

(b) using the at least one upper notch to open the top;

(c) after step (b), adding water through the open top to the smokable filler;

(d) after step (c), sealing the top by closing the openable and reclosable seal;

(e) after step (d), agitating the packaging causing the smokable filler and water to mix;

(f) after step (e), using the at least one lower notch to open the bottom;

(g) after step (f), causing the mixed water and smokable filler to exit the bottom through the funneling portion; and

(h) after step (g), smoking the mixed water and smokable filler.

Various embodiments relate generally to apparatuses for hydrating a smokable filler product packaged for sale. The present invention may preferably having a top and bottom and comprise:

(a) an interior located between the top and bottom;

(b) an openable and reclosable seal positioned next to the top;

(c) at least one upper notch positioned next to the openable and reclosable seal;

(d) at least one lower notch positioned next to the bottom; and

(e) a funneling portion located next to the bottom and adjacent the least one lower notch; comprise the steps of:

Various embodiments relate generally to methods for packaging a smokable filler product for sale. The present invention may preferably comprise the steps of:

(a) providing a packaging having a top and a bottom and comprising:

• • an interior located between the top and bottom;
  • an openable and reclosable seal positioned next to the top;
  • at least one upper notch positioned next to the openable and reclosable seal;
  • at least one lower notch positioned next to the bottom; and
  • a funneling portion located next to the bottom and adjacent the least one lower notch;

(b) placing smokable filler in the interior; and

(c) sealing the packaging.

In various embodiments, the mixing of water with the smokable filler preferably reconstitutes the percent moisture by weight of the smokable filler to at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, and 38 percent. In various embodiments, the mixing of water with the smokable filler preferably reconstitutes the moisture content of the smokable filler within a range of between any two of the above specified percent moisture by weight of smokable filler.

In one embodiment, the packaging is made up of a pliable packaging material.

In one embodiment, the packaging is made up of a packaging material that act as a barrier to moisture, oxygen, or light such as aluminum foil or a polymer film.

In one embodiment, the smokable filler product for sale is a dried tobacco leaf or dried tobacco filler product.

In one embodiment, the openable and reclosable seal is a zip seal.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

For a further understanding of the nature, objects, and advantages of the present invention, reference should be had to the following detailed description, read in conjunction with the following drawings, wherein like reference numerals denote like elements and wherein:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of the present invention showing a packaging for hydrating and smoking a smokable filler product packaged for sale;

FIGS. 2 through 4 are schematic views of a preferred embodiment of the present invention showing smokable filler being placed in the interior of the packaging and sealing the packaging;

FIGS. 5 through 7 are schematic views of a preferred embodiment of the present invention showing the use of the upper notch to open the top, adding water through the open top to the smokable filler, and sealing the interior by closing the openable and reclosable seal;

FIGS. 8 and 9 are schematic views of a preferred embodiment of the present invention showing the mixing of the water and smokable filler in the interior;

FIGS. 10 and 11 are schematic views of a preferred embodiment of the present invention showing the use of the lower notch to open the bottom and the mixed water and smokable filler to exit the bottom through the funneling portion;

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of the present invention showing the dimensions of a packaging for hydrating and smoking a smokable filler product packaged for sale;

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention showing the packaging having perforated or indented lines extending between notches;

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the apparatus of the present invention;

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the apparatus of the present invention;

FIGS. 16-19 are sequential perspective views showing the method of the present invention; and

FIGS. 20-23 are perspective views of another embodiment of the apparatus of the present invention that employs a valving member in between fluid and tobacco containers or receptacles.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIGS. 1 and 12 are a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of the present invention showing a packaging 10 for hydrating and smoking a smokable filler product packaged for sale. The packaging 10 preferably has a top 13, bottom 12, and sides 14, 15.

In one embodiment, the packaging 10 is made up of a pliable packaging material.

In one embodiment, the packaging 10 is made up of a packaging material that act as a barrier to moisture, oxygen, or light such as aluminum foil or a polymer film. The polymer film, for example, may include a polyester, polyethylene film, or combination thereof.

In one embodiment, the packing material is formed into layers such that the packaging 10 can be composed of a single layer or a plurality of layers that can include layers of different packing materials.

In one embodiment, the packing material include materials that regulate moisture/humidity within the interior.

The packaging 10 preferably has an openable and reclosable seal 16 positioned next to the top 13 having a top 33, bottom 34, and sides 31, 32. More preferably, the openable and reclosable seal 16 can be a zip or plastic zipper zeal.

The packaging 10 preferably has an interior 11 formed within the top 13, bottom 12, sides 14, 15, and openable and reclosable seal 16. The packaging 10 also preferably include sealed portions 62, 63 between the sides 14, 15 and the interior 11. The interior 11 preferably has sides 40, 41, 44, 45 and a top 59 preferably when the interior 11 has been sealed. The interior 11 preferably has a funneling end portion 39 with sides 42, 43 that taper into a bottom 61.

The sides 42, 43 preferably curve into the bottom. The sides 42, 43 preferably have lengths 74, 75 ranging from 5 to 25 centimeters. More preferably, the sides 42, 43 preferably have lengths 74, 75 ranging from 7 to 20 centimeters. Most preferably, the sides 42, 43 preferably have lengths 74, 75 ranging from 7 to 15 centimeters.

The width 73, 76 of the sealed portion 62, 63 preferably ranges from 2 to 10 centimeters. More preferably, the width 73, 76 of the sealed portion 62, 63 ranges from 3 to 8 centimeters. Most preferably, the width 73, 76 of the sealed portion 62, 63 ranges from 4 to 7 centimeters.

The sides 14, 15 preferably have notches 23, 24, 25, 26. More preferably, the sides 14, 15 have upper notches 25, 26 and lower notches 23, 24.

The upper notches 25, 26 are preferably placed along a horizontal axis and between the top 13 and openable and reclosable seal 16. In one embodiment, the packaging 100 further includes a perforated or indented line 167 extending from upper notches 125, 126 along the horizontal axis as shown in FIG. 13. The upper notches 25, 26 are preferably positioned above the openable and reclosable seal 16 such that there is a portion 88 with sides 35, 36 between the notches 25, 26 and openable and reclosable seal 16.

The lower notches 23, 24 along a horizontal axis and above the bottoms 12, 61. In one embodiment, the packaging 100 further includes a perforated or indented line 168 extending from upper notches 123, 124 along the horizontal axis.

A top tab portion 17 is preferably formed between the horizontal axis between the notches 25, 26 and top 13 having sides 27, 28. The length 70 of sides 27, 28 preferably being about 5% to 50% of the length 86, 87 of the sides 14, 15. More preferably, the length 70 of sides 27, 28 being about 5% to 25% of the length 86, 87 of the sides 14, 15. Most preferably, the length 70 of sides 27, 28 being about 5% to 15% of the length 86, 87 of the sides 14, 15. The interior 11 preferably extends into the top tab portion 17 such that there are preferably sealed portions 64, 65 between the sides 27, 28, 44, 45.

A bottom tab portion 18 is preferably formed between the horizontal axis between the notches 23, 24 and bottom 12 having sides 29, 30. The length 77 of sides 29, 30 preferably being about 5% to 50% of the length 86, 87 of the sides 14, 15. More preferably, the length 77 of sides 29, 30 being about 5% to 25% of the length 86, 87 of the sides 14, 15. Most preferably, the length 77 of sides 29, 30 being about 5% to 15% of the length 86, 87 of the sides 14, 15. A portion of the funneling end portion 39 and the bottom 61 preferably extend into the bottom tab portion just below the notches 23, 24.

FIGS. 2 through 4 are schematic views of a preferred embodiment of the present invention showing smokable filler 47 being placed in the interior 11 of the packaging 10 and sealing the packaging 10.

FIGS. 2 through 4 disclose a method for packaging a smokable filler product for sale preferably comprising the steps of: (a) preferably providing a packaging 10 having a top 13 and a bottom 12 and preferably comprising: an interior 11 preferably located between the top 13 and bottom 12; an openable and reclosable seal 16 preferably positioned next to the top 13; at least one upper notch 25, 26 preferably positioned next to the openable and reclosable seal 16; at least one lower notch 23, 24 preferably positioned next to the bottom 12; and a funneling portion 39 preferably located next to the bottom 12 and preferably adjacent the least one lower notch 23, 24; (b) placing smokable filler 47 preferably in the interior 11; and (c) preferably sealing the packaging 10.

FIGS. 2 through 4 also show part of a method for hydrating and smoking a smokable filler product packaged for sale preferably comprising the steps of: (a) obtaining a packaged smokable filler product preferably having a top 13 and bottom 12 and preferably comprising: an interior 11 preferably containing smokable filler 47 and located between the top 13 and bottom 12; an openable and reclosable seal 16 preferably positioned next to the top 13; at least one upper notch 25, 26 preferably positioned next to the openable and reclosable seal 16; at least one lower notch 23, 24 preferably positioned next to the bottom 12; and a funneling portion 39 preferably located next to the bottom 12 and adjacent the least one lower notch 23, 24; (b) preferably using the at least one upper notch 25, 26 to open the top 13; (c) after step (b), preferably adding water 51 through the open top 13 to the smokable filler 47; (d) after step (c), preferably sealing the top 13 by closing the openable and reclosable seal 16; (e) after step (d), preferably agitating the packaging 10 causing the smokable filler 47 and water 51 to mix; (f) after step (e), preferably using the at least one lower notch 23, 24 to open 60 the bottom 89; (g) after step (f), preferably causing the mixed water and smokable filler 57 to exit the bottom 89 through the funneling portion 39; and (h) after step (g), smoking the mixed water and smokable filler 57.

FIGS. 2 through 4 also disclose an apparatus for hydrating a smokable filler product packaged for sale preferably having a top 13 and bottom 12 and preferably comprising: (a) an interior 11 preferably located between the top 13 and bottom 12; (b) an openable and reclosable seal 16 preferably positioned next to the top 13; (c) at least one upper notch 25, 26 preferably positioned next to the openable and reclosable seal 16; (d) at least one lower notch preferably positioned next to the bottom; and (e) a funneling portion 39 preferably located next to the bottom and adjacent the least one lower notch.

FIG. 2 shows smokable filler 47 being placed in the interior 11 in the direction indicated by the arrow 48. The top 13 preferably forms an opening 46 to the interior. After the interior 11 has been filled with smokable filler 47 as shown in FIG. 3, the top 13 and opening 46 are closed such that the interior 11 with smokable filler 47 is sealed. As shown in FIG. 4, the top tab portion after closing the opening 16 of the top 13 preferably includes a sealed portion 66 between the top 13 and interior 11 that in conjunction with sealed portions 64, 65 for a seal around the edges 44, 45, 59 of the interior. The smokable filler 47 as shown in FIGS. 2-4 can have a percent moisture by weight less than to at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, and 38 percent. In various embodiments the percent moisture by weight can be within a range of between any two of the above referenced percentages of moisture by weight.

In various embodiments, the smokable filler 47 comprises tobacco, herbal, or non-tobacco natural leaf smokable material or filler. In various embodiment, the smokable filler 47 includes various products having smokable materials originating from plants. In one embodiment, the smokable filler 47 includes a product of herbs or leaves such as, for example, a dried herb/leaf product.

In one embodiment, the closing of the opening 16 of the top 13 hermitically seals the interior 11.

In one embodiment, the interior 11 is vacuum sealed.

In one embodiment, the interior preferably includes a plurality of compartments where at least one compartment contains smokable filler and at least one compartment can receive a liquid such as water.

In one embodiment, the compartment are formed by barriers, where the smokable filler containing compartment is adjacent or next to the liquid receiving compartment. In one embodiment, the smokable filler containing compartment shares a barrier with the liquid receiving compartment.

In another embodiment, at least one of the barriers are preferably dissolvable in a liquid such as water such that seal of the smokable filler containing compartment is removed to allow the liquid to enter the smokable filler containing compartment. In another embodiment, an outward force is exerted on the packaging to break the seal to allow the liquid to enter the smokable filler containing compartment.

In one embodiment, the packaging does not include an openable and reclosable seal.

In one embodiment, the packaging includes a plurality of openable and reclosable seals.

In one embodiment, the at least one lower notch is placed on the bottom next to the side.

In one embodiment, the packaging further comprises markings including, for example, measurement markings or markings indicating levels preferably for optimal smokable filler hydration.

In one embodiment, the packaging includes indicia or image.

In one embodiment, the interior of packaging of a smokable filler product packaged for sale preferably includes smokable filler and a dried moisture dispensing apparatus. For example, the dried moisture dispensing apparatus may be a moisture packet that is preferably sized and shaped to fit within the interior.

In one embodiment, the packaging includes a humidity indicator that preferably measure the humidity in the interior. In one embodiment, the humidity indicator includes indications for optimizing hydration of the smokable filler.

One embodiment of the present invention is a method for packaging a smokable filler product for sale preferably comprising a first packaging having an interior with smokable filler and a second packaging with an interior containing water. In one embodiment, the first and second packaging further include interconnecting valves. In one embodiment, the second packaging further includes a nozzle for spraying/nebulizing the water into the interior of the first packaging.

In one embodiment, the packaging further includes an interior evacuating means such as a plunger.

In one embodiment, the interior includes an end portion not having tapering sides.

FIGS. 5 through 7 are schematic views of a preferred embodiment of the present invention showing the use of the upper notches 25, 26 to open the top 54, adding water 51 through the open top 54 to the smokable filler 47, and sealing the interior 11 by closing the openable and reclosable seal 16.

FIGS. 5-7 show part of a method for hydrating and smoking a smokable product packaged for sale preferably comprising the steps of: (a) obtaining a packaged smokable filler product preferably having a top 13 and bottom 12 and preferably comprising: an interior 11 preferably containing smokable filler 47 and located between the top 13 and bottom 12; an openable and reclosable seal 16 preferably positioned next to the top 13; at least one upper notch 25, 26 preferably positioned next to the openable and reclosable seal 16; at least one lower notch 23, 24 preferably positioned next to the bottom 12; and a funneling portion 39 preferably located next to the bottom 12 and adjacent the least one lower notch 23, 24; (b) preferably using the at least one upper notch 25, 26 to open the top 13; (c) after step (b), preferably adding water 51 through the open top 13 to the smokable filler 47; (d) after step (c), preferably sealing the top 13 by closing the openable and reclosable seal 16; (e) after step (d), preferably agitating the packaging 10 causing the smokable filler 47 and water 51 to mix; (f) after step (e), preferably using the at least one lower notch 23, 24 to open 60 the bottom 89; (g) after step (f), preferably causing the mixed water and smokable filler 57 to exit the bottom 89 through the funneling portion 39; and (h) after step (g), smoking the mixed water and smokable filler 57.

One embodiment of the present invention is a method for reviving stale or old smokable filler preferably comprising the steps of: (a) placing stale or old smokable filler in an interior of an openable and resealable packaging via an opening; (b) adding water to the interior; (c) after step (b), closing the opening; (d) after step (c), mixing the water with the smokable filler; (e) after step (d), removing the water and smokable filler from the interior; and (f) after step (e), using the water and smokable filler for consumption.

FIG. 5 shows the removal of the top tab portion 17 from the packaging 10. A leveraging force is preferably and generally applied near the sides 27, 28 such that a tear occurs generally along the axis between the notches 25, 26. As the tear continues to grow along the horizontal axis, the top tab portion 17 is preferably lifted in manner indicated by arrow 49 such that the top tab portion 17 can removed from the packaging 10 when the tear preferably extends from notch 25, 26 to notch 25, 26.

In one embodiment, the tear continues along the perforated or indent line 167 of packaging 100.

The removal of the top tab portion 17 preferably leaves a top 53 that is preferably above the openable and reclosable seal 16 and forms an opening 54 to the interior 11. More preferably, the top 53 is above portion 88.

In various embodiments, the volume of water 51 reconstitutes the percent moisture by weight of the smokable filler 47 to at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, and 38 percent. In various embodiments, the volume of water 51 reconstitutes the moisture content of the smokable filler 47 within a range of between any two of the above specified percent moisture by weight of smokable filler.

In one embodiment, the water 51 further includes a scented material.

In one embodiment, the water 51 further includes a flavoring.

In one embodiment, the water includes fluids that impart moisture to the smokable filler 47.

In one embodiment, the material that impart moisture to the smokable filler 47 is added.

FIG. 7 shows the closing of the openable and reclosable seal 16 to seal the interior 11 with the smokable filler 47 and water 51, wherein an interface 52 between the smokable filler 47 and water 51 is preferably formed.

Alternatively, a fluid may be added to the interior 11 that mixes with the smokable filler 47 without having to manually mix the smokable filler 47 with the fluid. Alternatively, a fluid or material may be added to the interior 11 that imparts moisture to the smokable filler 47 without mixing.

When closed, the openable and reclosable seal 16 preferably seal the interior 11.

In one embodiment, the packaging does not include an openable and reclosable seal such that the top is closed by other methods including but not limited to hand sealing or heat sealing the top.

In one embodiment, the packaging includes a plurality of openable and reclosable seals. For example, the packaging includes a first openable and reclosable seal positioned preferably positioned next to the top and a second openable and reclosable seal positioned adjacent to the funneling end portion.

In one embodiment, the interior includes an end portion not having tapering sides.

In one embodiment, the interior further includes a dried moisture dispensing apparatus. For example, the dried moisture dispensing apparatus may be a moisture packet that is preferably sized and shaped to fit within the interior.

One embodiment of the present invention includes a method of using the moisture packet to hydrate the smokable filler, wherein the packet is removed from the packaging, hydrated, and returned to said packaging.

One embodiment of the present invention is a method for hydrating a smokable filler product for sale preferably including a first packaging having an interior with smokable filler and a second packaging with an interior containing water where the water from the second packaging is preferably placed in the interior of the first packaging.

In one embodiment, the addition of the water increased the pressure within the interior such that the increased pressure preferably improve the hydration of the smokable filler.

In one embodiment, the interior preferably includes a plurality of compartments where at least one compartment contains smokable filler and at least one compartment can receive a liquid such as water.

In one embodiment, the compartment are formed by barriers, where the smokable filler containing compartment is adjacent or next to the liquid receiving compartment. In one embodiment, the smokable filler containing compartment shares a barrier with the liquid receiving compartment.

In another embodiment, at least one of the barriers are preferably dissolvable in a liquid such as water such that seal of the smokable filler containing compartment is removed to allow the liquid to enter the smokable filler containing compartment. In another embodiment, an outward force is exerted on the packaging to break the seal to allow the liquid to enter the smokable filler containing compartment.

FIGS. 8 and 9 are schematic views of a preferred embodiment of the present invention showing the mixing of the water 51 and smokable filler 47 in the interior 11 when the openable and reclosable seal 16 is closed. As shown in FIGS. 8-9, the packaging 10 is preferably moved in any manner (i.e. shaking, agitating, etc.) to mix the smokable filler 47 and water 51. FIG. 9 shows the mix 57 of water 51 and smokable filler 47.

FIGS. 8 and 9 show part of a method for hydrating and smoking a smokable filler product packaged for sale preferably comprising the steps of: (a) obtaining a packaged smokable filler product preferably having a top 13 and bottom 12 and preferably comprising: an interior 11 preferably containing smokable filler 47 and located between the top 13 and bottom 12; an openable and reclosable seal 16 preferably positioned next to the top 13; at least one upper notch 25, 26 preferably positioned next to the openable and reclosable seal 16; at least one lower notch 23, 24 preferably positioned next to the bottom 12; and a funneling portion 39 preferably located next to the bottom 12 and adjacent the least one lower notch 23, 24; (b) preferably using the at least one upper notch 25, 26 to open the top 13; (c) after step (b), preferably adding water 51 through the open top 13 to the smokable filler 47; (d) after step (c), preferably sealing the top 13 by closing the openable and reclosable seal 16; (e) after step (d), preferably agitating the packaging 10 causing the smokable filler 47 and water 51 to mix; (f) after step (e), preferably using the at least one lower notch 23, 24 to open 60 the bottom 89; (g) after step (f), preferably causing the mixed water and smokable filler 57 to exit the bottom 89 through the funneling portion 39; and (h) after step (g), smoking the mixed water and smokable filler 57.

In one embodiment, the mixing of the smokable filler and water forms an aqueous solution.

In one embodiment, the mixing of the smokable filler and water forms a paste.

In various embodiment, the mixed water and smokable filler 57 can be consumed in other ways such as, for example, chewing, dipping, or sniffing.

FIGS. 10 and 11 are schematic views of a preferred embodiment of the present invention showing the use of the lower notch 29, 30 to open the bottom 89 and the mixed water and smokable filler 57 to exit the bottom 89 through the funneling portion 39.

FIGS. 10 and 11 show part of a method for hydrating and smoking a smokable filler product packaged for sale preferably comprising the steps of: (a) obtaining a packaged smokable filler product preferably having a top 13 and bottom 12 and preferably comprising: an interior 11 preferably containing smokable filler 47 and located between the top 13 and bottom 12; an openable and reclosable seal 16 preferably positioned next to the top 13; at least one upper notch 25, 26 preferably positioned next to the openable and reclosable seal 16; at least one lower notch 23, 24 preferably positioned next to the bottom 12; and a funneling portion 39 preferably located next to the bottom 12 and adjacent the least one lower notch 23, 24; (b) preferably using the at least one upper notch 25, 26 to open the top 13; (c) after step (b), preferably adding water 51 through the open top 13 to the smokable filler 47; (d) after step (c), preferably sealing the top 13 by closing the openable and reclosable seal 16; (e) after step (d), preferably agitating the packaging 10 causing the smokable filler 47 and water 51 to mix; (f) after step (e), preferably using the at least one lower notch 23, 24 to open 60 the bottom 89; (g) after step (f), preferably causing the mixed water and smokable filler 57 to exit the bottom 89 through the funneling portion 39; and (h) after step (g), smoking the mixed water and smokable filler 57.

FIG. 10 shows the removal of the bottom tab portion 18 from the packaging 10. A leveraging force is preferably and generally applied near the sides 29, 30 such that a tear occurs generally along the axis between the notches 23, 24. As the tear continues to grow along the horizontal axis, the bottom tab portion 18 is preferably lifted in manner indicated by arrow 58 such that the bottom tab portion 18 can removed from the packaging 10 when the tear preferably extends from notch 23, 24 to notch 23, 24.

In one embodiment, the tear continues along the perforated or indent line 168 of packaging 100.

The removal of the bottom tab portion 18 preferably removes a portion of the funneling end portion 39 and bottom 61 such that a bottom 89 with an opening 60 to the interior 11 is formed. Alternatively, a leveraging force maybe applied to initiate a tear from the notch 23, 24 such that an opening 60 is formed without having to completely remove the bottom tab portion 18.

FIG. 11 shows the mix 57 exiting from the interior 11 through the opening when a force is applied. For example, a force as indicated by arrows 80, 81 is preferably applied to the outer surface of the packaging 10 such that the mix 57 preferably moves in manner as indicated by the arrow 82 within the interior 11 into the funneling end portion 39. In the funneling end portion 39, the mix 57 is preferably funneled by the side edges 42, 43 to the opening 60 and out of the packaging 10 as indicated by the arrows 83, 84, 85.

In one embodiment, the lower notch 22′ is positioned on bottom 12 next to the side (either 14 or 15) such that the mix of smokable filler 57 and water 51 can be removed from the side of the pouch 11 allowing the pouch 11 to be opened in a direction substantially parallel to its longitudinal axis as compared to being opened via notches 23/24 in a direction substantially perpendicular/orthogonal to the pouch's longitudinal axis.

In one embodiment, the packaging includes a plurality of openable and reclosable seals. For example, the packaging includes a first openable and reclosable seal positioned preferably positioned next to the top and a second openable and reclosable seal positioned adjacent to the funneling end portion such that the packaging can be sealed allowing for an individual to use a portion of the mix and store the rest of the mix for later use.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the present invention showing the packaging 100 having perforated or indented lines 167, 168 extending between notches 123, 124, 125, 126.

FIGS. 14-19 show another embodiment of the apparatus of the present invention, designated generally by the numeral 110. Package 110 in FIGS. 14-19 provides a package 110 that includes a packet or container 111 having multiple sections 142, 143 and multiple chambers. These chambers include an upper chamber 112 in upper section 142 and a lower chamber 113 in lower section 143. A perforated portion or perforation at 114 enables a user to tear the container 111 forming two separate sections as shown in FIG. 15. Alternatively, the chambers 112, 113 can be separated by tearing at notches 120, 121 which also opens channel 117.

Each chamber 112, 113 is surrounded by a seal or sealing member 115, 116 so that it will retain its contents. The upper chamber 112 preferably contains fluid or water 136. The lower chamber 113 contains dried tobacco material 137 which is desirably separated from moisture before use. A channel 117 is provided for enabling a connection to be made between the upper chamber 112 and lower chamber 113. The channel 117 has a valving member or ball valve 118 that can be displaced when it is desired to mix the fluid or water 136 with the dried tobacco material 137. Arrow 119 in FIG. 14 illustrates a moving of the ball or ball valving member 118 upwardly into upper chamber 112 so that water or fluid contained in the upper chamber 112 can flow via the channel 117 to the lower chamber 113. In this fashion a user can mix a selective amount of fluid or water 136 with the dried tobacco material 137.

Lower chamber 113 has a seal or zip seal 139 that maintains a closure of the lower chamber 113 to thus maintain the dried tobacco material 137 in a dry state. Lower chamber 113 has notches 132, 133 that enable a tear to be formed across the top of the upper chamber 113, just above zip seal 139 as seen in FIGS. 14-15 (see arrow 145).

The lower chamber 113 has a funnel 135 and an outlet 134. In order to mix fluid or water 136 with dried tobacco material 137, a user opens the seal or zip seal 139 and opens the valve 118 so that water flows through the channel 117 into the lower chamber 113 as illustrated by arrow 138 in FIG. 14.

FIG. 15 illustrates that the upper and lower chambers 111, 112 can be separated. In FIG. 15, a user tears the upper chamber 112 by tearing across from notch 120 to notch 121 as indicated by arrow 144. Similarly, a user obtains access to seal 139 by tearing lower chamber 113 from notch 132 to notch 133, then opens the seal 139 so that access is provided to the dried tobacco material 137.

In FIGS. 16, 17, and 18, a user pours the liquid or fluid 136 in upper chamber 112 as illustrated by arrow 146 into the lower chamber 113. In FIGS. 15 and 16, the packet 111 has been separated into separate upper section 142 and separate lower section 143. In FIG. 17, a user has closed the seal 139 so that the lower section can be agitated, thus mixing the fluid or water 136 with the dried tobacco material 137. In FIG. 18 a user tears the lower section 143 by tearing from notch 140 to notch 141 as illustrated by arrow 147. In FIG. 19, arrows 148 schematically illustrate a user squeezing lower section 143 while seal 139 is closed, forcing the hydrated tobacco material 169 from lower chamber 113 via outlet 134 (see arrow 149).

In FIGS. 20-23, a package 130 can be seen for containing tobacco material which is dried that will be mixed with a fluid. In FIGS. 20-23, packet 150 has an upper chamber 151 and a lower chamber 152. A peripheral seal 153 is provided that surrounds the upper chamber 151 and its fluid contents (for example, water). A peripheral seal 154 also surrounds lower chamber 152 and its dried tobacco material contents.

The upper and lower chambers 151, 152 are connected with a channel 155. Channel 155 is closed with a ball or ball valving member 160. Notches are provided at 157, 158 on opposing sides of funnel 156. Below funnel 156 is outlet 159. In FIGS. 21-23, a user 161 pushes the ball valving member 160 upwardly as indicated by arrow 170. This opens the channel 155 so that the fluid contained in the upper chamber 151 flows downwardly as indicated by arrow 162 into the lower chamber 152. The lower chamber now contains a mixture of dry tobacco material 137 or water 136. In FIG. 23, channel 155 is closed by pushing ball 160 into channel 155 as shown by arrow 168 in FIG. 23. A user 161 then agitates or shakes the package 150 to mix fluid 136 with dried tobacco 137. Package 150 can then be torn at notches 166, 167 to open channel 165 and outlet 163. Channel 165 can be funnel shaped.

TABLE OF REFERENCE NUMERALS
Reference Numeral Description
10                package
11                interior
12                bottom
13                top
14                side
15                side
16                zip seal/zipper seal
17                top tab portion
18                bottom tab portion
19                corner
20                corner
21                corner
22                corner
23                notch
24                notch
25                notch
26                notch
27                side of top tab portion 17
28                side of top tab portion 17
29                side of bottom tab portion 18
30                side of bottom tab portion 18
31                side of seal 16
32                side of seal 16
33                top of seal 16
34                bottom of seal 16
35                side between side 32 and notch 26
36                side between side 31 and notch 25
37                side between side 32 and notch 23
38                side between side edge 31 and notch 24
39                funneling end portion of interior 11
40                side of interior 11
41                side of interior 11
42                side of funneling end portion 39
43                side of funneling end portion 39
44                inner side of top tab portion 17
45                inner side of top tab portion 17
46                opening
47                smokable filler/tobacco
48                arrow
49                arrow
50                arrow
51                fluid
52                Fluid 51 and smokable filler/tobacco 47 interface
53                top
54                opening
55                arrow
56                arrow
57                mix of fluid 51 and smokable filler/tobacco 47
58                arrow
59                inner top of top tab portion 17
60                opening
61                inner bottom of interior 11
62                sealed portion between sides 37, 40, 42
63                sealed portion between sides 38, 41, 43
64                sealed portion between sides 28 and inner side 45
65                sealed portion between sides 27 and inner side 44
66                sealed portion between top 13 and inner top 59
67                dimension
68                dimension
71                dimension
72                dimension
73                dimension
74                dimension
75                dimension
76                dimension
77                dimension
78                dimension
79                Dimension
80                arrow
81                arrow
82                arrow
83                arrow
84                arrow
85                arrow
86                dimension
87                dimension
88                portion between sides 35, 36
89                bottom
100               packaging
110               package
111               package/container
112               upper chamber
113               lower chamber
114               perforated portion/perforation
115               seal
116               seal
117               channel
118               valving member/ball valve/ball
119               arrow
120               notch
121               notch
123               notch
124               notch
125               notch
126               notch
130               package
132               notch
133               notch
134               outlet
135               funnel
136               fluid/water
137               dried tobacco material/smokable material
138               arrow
139               zip seal/zipper
140               bottom notch
141               bottom notch
142               upper section
143               lower section
144               arrow
145               arrow
146               arrow
147               arrow
148               arrow
149               arrow
150               packet
151               upper chamber
152               lower chamber
153               seal/peripheral seal
154               seal/peripheral seal
155               channel
156               funnel
157               notch
158               notch
159               outlet
160               ball/valving member
161               user
162               arrow
163               outlet
165               channel
166               notch
167               notch
168               arrow
169               hydrated tobacco material/smokable filler
170               arrow

The following is a list of parts and materials suitable for use in the present invention:

All measurements disclosed herein are at standard temperature and pressure, at sea level on Earth, unless indicated otherwise. All materials used or intended to be used in a human being are biocompatible, unless indicated otherwise.

The foregoing embodiments are presented by way of example only; the scope of the present invention is to be limited only by the following claims.

Claims

1. A method for packaging a smokable filler product for sale, comprising the steps of:

(a) providing a package having a top and a bottom, an interior located between the top and bottom, the top having an opening that communicates with the interior, an openable and reclosable seal positioned next to the top at said opening, a funnel located next to the bottom, the funnel having a tapered section with larger and smaller portions, and an outlet that communicates with the smaller portion of the funnel;

(b) placing dehydrated smokable filler/dehydrated tobacco material filler in the interior via the seal, wherein the dehydrated smokable filler/dehydrated tobacco material filler is desirably hydrated before being smokable;

(c) sealing the packaging.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein the packaging further comprises notches placed on at least one end of the packaging.

3. The method of claim 2, wherein the packaging further comprises a perforated line extending across the funnel at the outlet.

4. The method of claim 1, wherein the packaging comprises two lower notches on opposites ends of the outlet.

5. The method of claim 4, wherein the packaging further comprises a perforated line extending between the two lower notches.

6. The method of claim 1, wherein the interior is formed within the top, bottom, sides, openable and reclosable seal, and outlet.

7. The method of claim 1, wherein the top forms an opening to the interior and step (b) further includes placing tobacco in the interior through the opening.

8. The method of claim 1, wherein step (c) further includes sealing the opening of the package.

9. The method of claim 1, wherein the smokable filler product/tobacco product for sale is a dried tobacco that has negligible water content.

10. The method of claim 1, wherein the openable and reclosable seal is a zip seal.

11. The method of claim 1, wherein step (c) further includes hermetically sealing the interior.

12. The method of claim 1, wherein the packaging is made up of a packaging material that is a barrier to moisture.

13. The method of claim 1, wherein the packaging is made up of a packaging material that is a barrier to oxygen.

14-21. (canceled)

22. A method for hydrating and smoking a smokable filler product/tobacco product packaged for sale, comprising the steps of:

(a) providing a package having a top, a bottom, an interior containing smokable filler/tobacco that is located between the top and bottom, an openable and reclosable seal positioned next to the top, a funnel located next to the bottom and an outlet next to the funnel and a package bottom;

(b) adding water through the open top so that the water is able to mix with the tobacco;

(c) after step (b), sealing the top by closing the openable and reclosable seal;

(d) after step (c), agitating the packaging causing the smokable filler/tobacco and water to mix;

(e) after step (d) opening the outlet;

(f) after step (e), causing the mixed water and tobacco to exit the package through the funnel and outlet; and

(g) after step (f), smoking the mixed water and tobacco.

23. The method of claim 22, wherein the packaging further comprises two upper notches placed on opposites ends of the packaging.

24. The method of claim 23, wherein the packaging further comprises a perforated line extending between the two upper notches.

25-55. (canceled)

56. A method for hydrating and smoking a tobacco product packaged for sale comprising the steps of:

(a) providing a package with a pair of interior sections including a first interior section containing tobacco and a second interior section containing a liquid;

(b) wherein in step “a”, a channel extends between said interior sections and there is a closure in said channel that prevents flow of liquid from the first interior section to the second interior section via the channel;

(c) opening the closure so that the liquid in the first interior section flows into the second interior section and mixes with the tobacco;

(d) after step (c), closing the opening;

(e) after step (d), mixing the liquid with the tobacco;

(f) after step (e), removing the liquid and tobacco from the interior; and

(g) after step (f), using the liquid and tobacco for consumption.

57. The method of claim 56, wherein step (f) further includes removing the liquid and tobacco mixture through the opening.

58. The method of claim 56, wherein the opening is at the top of the packaging.

59. The method of claim 56, wherein consumption includes smoking of the tobacco and liquid mixture.

60-71. (canceled)