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NZ614476B2 - Smoking article and method of manufacturing a smoking article - Google Patents
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NZ614476B2 - Smoking article and method of manufacturing a smoking article - Google Patents

Smoking article and method of manufacturing a smoking article Download PDF

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Publication number
NZ614476B2
NZ614476B2 NZ614476A NZ61447612A NZ614476B2 NZ 614476 B2 NZ614476 B2 NZ 614476B2 NZ 614476 A NZ614476 A NZ 614476A NZ 61447612 A NZ61447612 A NZ 61447612A NZ 614476 B2 NZ614476 B2 NZ 614476B2
Authority
NZ
New Zealand
Prior art keywords
smoking article
ventilation
filter
sleeve
control
Prior art date
Application number
NZ614476A
Other versions
NZ614476A (en
Inventor
Kevin Blick
Karl Kaljura
David Paton
Michael Simpson
Original Assignee
British American Tobacco (Investments) Limited
British American Tobacco Japan Ltd
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Priority claimed from GBGB1104232.2A external-priority patent/GB201104232D0/en
Application filed by British American Tobacco (Investments) Limited, British American Tobacco Japan Ltd filed Critical British American Tobacco (Investments) Limited
Publication of NZ614476A publication Critical patent/NZ614476A/en
Publication of NZ614476B2 publication Critical patent/NZ614476B2/en

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Classifications

    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A24TOBACCO; CIGARS; CIGARETTES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES; SMOKERS' REQUISITES
    • A24DCIGARS; CIGARETTES; TOBACCO SMOKE FILTERS; MOUTHPIECES OF CIGARS OR CIGARETTES; MANUFACTURE OF TOBACCO SMOKE FILTERS OR MOUTHPIECES
    • A24D3/00Tobacco smoke filters, e.g. filter tips or filtering inserts; Filters specially adapted for simulated smoking devices; Mouthpieces of cigars or cigarettes
    • A24D3/04Tobacco smoke filters characterised by their shape or structure
    • A24D3/041Tobacco smoke filters characterised by their shape or structure with adjustable means for modifying the degree of filtration of the filter

Abstract

smoking article 180 comprises a first part and a second part movable relative to the first part. A control mechanism comprises a first control surface 188a on one of the first part or second part; and a second control surface 188b on the other of the first and second parts. The second control surface 188b is configured to engage with the first control surface 188a to control relative rotation between the first part and second part. The first control surface 188a comprises a ridge between adjacent depressions. The ridge defines a single circumferential point of maximum resistance to movement of the second control surface between the adjacent depressions. ace 188b is configured to engage with the first control surface 188a to control relative rotation between the first part and second part. The first control surface 188a comprises a ridge between adjacent depressions. The ridge defines a single circumferential point of maximum resistance to movement of the second control surface between the adjacent depressions.

Description

Smoking article and method of manufacturing a smoking article Description The present invention relates to a smoking article and method of manufacturing a smoking article. ably, the invention relates to a smoking e having a ventilation which can be controllably varied.
Any discussion of the prior art throughout the specification should in no way be considered as an admission that such prior art is widely known or forms part of common general knowledge in the field.
A smoking e with a variable ventilation is known from US 158. The smoking article may be adjustable by rotation to vary air dilution by varying the degree of rotation between openings. The smoking article disclosed has a detent means comprising a plurality of discrete cut-outs which are engagable with a protuberance. A detent action is provided as the protuberance moves between the cut-outs. However, this smoking article may not provide a desired level of audible feedback when ventilation is varied.
The present invention provides, in a first aspect, a smoking article, comprising: a first part, a second part movable relative to the first part, and further comprising a control mechanism comprising a first control surface on one of the first part or second part; and a second control surface on the other of the first and second parts, wherein the second control surface is configured to engage with the first control surface to control relative movement between the first part and second part, wherein the first l surface ses a ridge between adjacent depressions which defines a single ferential point of m resistance to nt of the second control surface between the adjacent sions.
Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout the description and the claims, the words "comprise", "comprising", and the like are to be construed in an ive sense as d to an exclusive or exhaustive sense; that is to say, in the sense of "including, but not limited to".
Thus, the smoking article has a first part which is controllably movable relative to a second part.
Preferably, the first part and/or second part comprise at least one ventilation area, wherein the ve position of the first part to the second part is configured to selectively control ventilation through the at least one ventilation area.
Preferably, the first control surface and/or second control surface comprises a uous surface defining a plurality of circumferentially spaced depressions. ably, the depressions are elongate grooves which extend substantially longitudinally, and adjacent grooves are separated by a ridge.
Preferably, the first part is rotatable relative to the second part, and the l mechanism is an indexing mechanism configured to control relative rotation n the first part and second part to select one of a plurality of indexing positions.
Preferably, the control mechanism is a guide mechanism configured to allow udinal movement of the second part relative to the first part, and prevent relative rotation between the first part and the second part.
The present invention provides, in a second aspect, a method of manufacturing a g article, comprising: providing a first part, providing a second part, and attaching the second part to the first part such that the second part is movable relative to the first part, and the first and second parts further sing a control mechanism comprising a first control surface on one of the first part or second part; and a second control surface on the other of the first and second parts, wherein the second control surface is configured to engage with the first control surface to control relative movement between the first part and second part, wherein the first control surface comprises a ridge between adjacent depressions which defines a single circumferential point of maximum resistance to movement of the second control surface between the adjacent depressions.
Embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 is a side elevation view of a smoking article with a first embodiment of a variable ventilation system in a first state; Figure 2 is a cut-away side elevation view of a smoking article with the first embodiment of a variable ventilation system in a second state; Figure 3 is a cut-away side elevation view of a smoking article with the first embodiment of a le ventilation system in a third state; Figure 4 is an exploded ay side ion view of a g article with the first embodiment of a le ventilation system in the third state; Figure 5 is a plan view of a part of the smoking article with the first embodiment of a variable ventilation ; Figure 6 is a side elevation view of a smoking article with a second embodiment of a variable ation system in a first state; Figure 7 is a cut-away side elevation view of a g article with the second embodiment of a variable ventilation system in the first state; Figure 8 is a ay side elevation view of a smoking article with the second embodiment of a variable ventilation system in a second state; Figure 9 is an exploded cut-away side elevation view of a smoking article with the second embodiment of a variable ventilation system in the second state; Figure 10 is a cut-away side elevation view of a smoking article with the third embodiment of a variable ation system in a first state; Figure 11 is a cut-away side elevation view of a smoking article with the third embodiment of a variable ventilation system in a second state; Figure 12 is an exploded cut-away side elevation view of a smoking article with the third embodiment of a variable ventilation system in the first state; Figure 13 is a cut-away side elevation view of a smoking article with a fourth embodiment of a variable ventilation system in a first state; Figure 14 is a cut-away side elevation view of a smoking article with the fourth embodiment of a variable ventilation system in a second state; Figure 15 is an ed ay side elevation view of a smoking article with the fourth embodiment of a variable ation system in the first state; Figure 16 is a cut-away side elevation view of a smoking article with a fifth embodiment of a variable ventilation system in a first state; Figure 17 is an exploded cut-away side elevation view of a smoking article with the fifth embodiment of a variable ventilation system; Figure 18 is a cut-away side elevation view of a g article with a sixth embodiment of a variable ventilation system in a first state; Figure 19 is an exploded cut-away side elevation view of a smoking article with the sixth ment of a variable ventilation system; Figure 20 is a side elevation view of a smoking e with a seventh embodiment of a variable ventilation system in a first state; Figure 21 is a side elevation view of a smoking article with the seventh embodiment of a variable ation system in a second state; Figure 22 is a side elevation view of a smoking article with an eighth embodiment of a variable ventilation system in a first state; Figure 23 is a side elevation view of a smoking article with the eighth embodiment of a variable ventilation system in a second state; Figure 24 is an exploded cut-away side elevation view of a smoking article with the eighth embodiment of a variable ventilation system; Figure 25 is a ctive view of a smoking article with a ninth embodiment of a variable ventilation system in a first state; Figure 26 is a ctive view of a smoking article with the ninth embodiment of a variable ventilation system in a second state; Figure 27 is a side elevation view of a smoking article with a tenth embodiment of a variable ventilation system in a first state; Figure 28 is a side elevation view of a smoking article with the tenth embodiment of a variable ventilation system in a second state; Figure 29a is a side ion view of a surface of a first part of a smoking article according to any embodiment; and Figure 29b is a side elevation view of a e of a second part of a smoking article according to any embodiment.
A smoking article ing to any ment is briefly described. The smoking article may be an article such as a cigarette, cigar or cigarillo. For convenience, these will be referred to as "smoking articles" in this specification. The smoking article comprises a first part comprising a source of smokable material, which is preferably o. The source of smokable material is in the form of a tobacco rod, preferably with an attached first .
The tobacco rod and first filter are connected with a covering layer, preferably formed of tipping paper. The tobacco rod and first filter may be referred to as a tobacco unit.
A second part of the smoking article comprises a sleeve in the form of a cylindrical tube ing around the circumference of the tobacco rod and/or first filter. The sleeve is ably formed as a cylinder of paper. The tobacco rod and first filter are dimensioned to rotate as a unit around a longitudinal axis within the sleeve.
The second part may optionally further comprise a second filter at a mouthpiece end of the sleeve, adjacent to, or connected with, the first filter.
The second filter is securely attached and fixed within the sleeve. The first and/or second filters are preferably made of a conventional filtration material, e.g. cellulose acetate tow.
The tobacco rod and attached filter are described as connected by tipping paper. The tipping paper may be standard tipping paper, or a relatively thick ed tipping paper, or a board type tipping paper. Alternatively, a tube formed of any material may attach the filter material 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 . Alternatively, the tube may be made from a ceramic material. Alternatively, the tube may be formed from foil, metal or metallised paper.
The smoking article is provided with a ventilation system configured to allow adjustment of a ventilation of the smoking article. The ation is selected by selecting a position of the second part ve to the first part, which is controlled by a control mechanism. The control mechanism preferably provides tactile feedback and/or an audible sound indicating movement to or from the selected position.
Figures 1 to 5 show a first embodiment of smoking article 180. The smoking article 180 comprises a tobacco unit 181, which may se a source of smokable material in the form of a tobacco rod, and a filter 184. A first part comprising the tobacco unit 181 is moveable relative to a second part of the smoking article comprising a sleeve 183. The filter 184 is located within the sleeve 183, at a mouthpiece end. The o rod is fixed to the filter 184. The sleeve 183 is rotatable relative to the o unit 181, and the sleeve 183 is not movable longitudinally relative to the tobacco unit 181. The tobacco unit 181 has a rearward end, which is surrounded by the sleeve 183.
The sleeve 183 is provided with one or more first ventilation apertures 186 adjacent to a forward end. Preferably, the sleeve 183 comprises a single first ventilation aperture 186 extending longitudinally and ferentially over a part only of the circumference. Preferably, the first ventilation aperture 186 has a substantially rectangular outline. The tobacco unit 181 comprises one or more second ventilation apertures 187 adjacent to a rd end. Preferably, the tobacco unit 181 comprises a plurality of second ventilation apertures 187 in an array extending longitudinally and circumferentially over a part only of the circumference. The second ventilation apertures 187 may be formed on a plurality of parallel and longitudinally extending lines. The second ation apertures 187 allow ingress of air into o unit 181, in particular into the filter and/or into the tobacco rod containing a source of smokable material.
The second ventilation apertures 187 are formed in a tubular member 189 which is formed as a sleeve separate to the tobacco rod and filter of the tobacco unit 181. The r member 189 encircles and is affixed to the filter and/or tobacco rod 181, and is preferably formed of a sheet of flexible material, in particular, paper. The tubular member 189 may connect the filter to the tobacco rod, or may be attached to a filter and tobacco rod which are connected by another means, e.g. tipping paper (not shown).
Figure 1 shows the smoking article in a partially ventilating state. The first and second ventilation apertures 186,187 are lly aligned, allowing some ingress of air into the body of the filter and/or tobacco rod.
Figure 2 shows the smoking e 180 in a minimum ventilating state. The first and second ventilation apertures 186, 187 are not rotationally aligned, preventing ventilation of the smoking article through ventilation apertures 186, 187.
Figure 3 shows the smoking article 180 in a maximum ventilating state. The first and second ventilation apertures 186, 187 are rotationally aligned, allowing ventilation of the smoking article through ventilation apertures 186, 187.
The smoking article 180 is configured such that an initial ventilation state can be ed as a minimum ventilation state, a maximum ventilation state or an intermediate ventilation state between the maximum and minimum values. For an initial ventilation state which is a minimum ventilation, rotation of the sleeve relative to the tobacco unit in one or either ion causes the ventilation to se. The first and second ventilation apertures 186, 187 are not initially rotationally d, and are preferably formed in separate processes on the sleeve and tobacco unit, prior to the sleeve and tobacco unit being ted.
For an initial ventilation state which is a maximum ation, on of the sleeve relative to the tobacco unit in either direction causes the ventilation to se. The first and second ventilation apertures 186, 187 are initially fully rotationally d, and may be formed simultaneously in the same process when the sleeve is connected to the tobacco unit in the initial ventilation state.
Alternatively, the first and second ventilation apertures are formed in separate processes on the sleeve and tobacco unit, prior to the sleeve and tobacco unit being connected.
For an initial ventilation state which is an intermediate ventilation, on of the sleeve relative to the tobacco unit in a first direction causes the ventilation to increase, and rotation of the sleeve relative to the tobacco unit in an opposite second direction causes the ation to decrease. The first and second ventilation apertures 186, 187 are initially partially rotationally aligned, and are preferably formed in separate processes on the sleeve and tobacco unit, prior to the sleeve and tobacco unit being connected.
Figures 2 and 3 show the smoking article 180 includes a restraining means for inhibiting longitudinal movement between the sleeve 183 and tobacco rod 181, and in particular, preventing separation of the sleeve 183 from the tobacco rod 181. The restraining means comprises first and second engaging surfaces 185a,185b. The first engaging surface 185a is preferably formed on a section of increased er, having a step change in diameter from a forward section of the tobacco unit. The forward facing first engaging surface 185a is ably formed by a sheet material (e.g. paper) wrapped around the tobacco unit and forming a section of increased diameter. The first engaging surface 185a is ably formed on a radially outwardly extending forward edge of the tubular member 189, or may be formed by tipping paper or another sheet material wrapped around the tobacco unit.
The second ng surface 185b is provided within an interior e of the cylindrical tube forming the sleeve. The second engaging e 185b is formed n the forward and rearward ends of the sleeve, and inside of the cylindrical sleeve forming an or e of the sleeve. The second ng surface 185b is therefore formed within an exterior surface of the second part. The second engaging surface 185b is provided on an inwardly folded section of the sleeve 183, formed by folding a forward end of a blank for forming the sleeve. The restraining means 185a,185b allows free rotation whilst preventing removal or rearward longitudinal movement of the sleeve 183 relative to the tobacco unit 181.
Figure 4 shows an ed view of the smoking article 180. The g article 180 comprises a tobacco unit 181 having a filter 184 attached.
As shown in Figures 2 to 4, the smoking article 180 comprises a control mechanism in the form of an indexing mechanism, configured to control rotation n the sleeve 183 and tobacco unit 181. The indexing mechanism comprises a first indexing section 188a on the tobacco unit which is engaged with a second indexing section 188b on the sleeve 183. The sleeve 183 is rotatable relative to the tobacco unit 181 into a plurality of pre-determined indexed onal positions. The indexed positions are narrowly spaced, ing for incremental step-wise movement. The indexing mechanism of the present invention provides an angle of rotation which may be finely controlled and ined. The indexing mechanism provides a large number of indexed positions, at least three, preferably at least seven, and more preferably 10, or 12, 15, 20, 22 or more. Preferably, the indexing mechanism provides 18-25 positions, and more preferably 20 to 22 positions. The index mechanism es for a substantially continuous rotation n the first part and second part.
The tobacco unit 181 comprises the first indexing section 188a at its rearward end, and nded by the sleeve 183. The first indexing section 188a preferably has plurality of depressions which are engagable by a protruding e on the second indexing section. The depressions preferably form a corrugated exterior surface. In particular, the first indexing section 188a has an outer surface which is not smooth, and preferably comprises a plurality of elongate grooves, separated by ridges, which extend substantially longitudinally. The ity of ridges and grooves may define a sinuous outer surface, which smoothly oscillates in radius. The ridge between nt sions may have a curved profile with a substantially uniform radius of curvature. The ridge between adjacent depressions defines a single circumferential point of maximum resistance to movement of the engaging feature between the adjacent depressions. Alternatively, the grooves may be formed as flutes, having a concave profile. The ridge between adjacent depressions may have a pointed, creased, or tapering profile, having a substantially sharp point of maximum radius. The ridge between adjacent depressions defines a single ferential point of maximum resistance to movement of the engaging feature between the adjacent depressions. This shape provides for a loud sound when the first and second parts are rotated relative to each other, providing clear audible feedback that the ventilation has been changed.
The first indexing section may be formed on any exterior surface of the first part of the g article. In particular, the first ng section 188a may be formed on a tubular ng member 182 surrounding the filter 184. The tubular indexing member 182 surrounding the filter is separate to the filtration material and plugwrap forming the filter, and may optionally connect the filter to the tobacco rod. The tubular indexing member 182 ng the first indexing section 188a may be a cylinder of cellulose e or paper sleeve having depressions and/or protrusions as described above, and may be attached to the filter by an adhesive. The features of the first indexing section 188a are formed when the indexing member 182 is a blank prior to forming a tube, and prior to attachment of the indexing member 182 to the filter and/or tobacco rod.
The indexing grooves and ridges preferably extend around the whole ference of the o unit, or alternatively, extend around only a part of the circumference of the tobacco unit. The indexing s and ridges may extend over the whole length or only a part of the length of the indexing member 182.
Alternatively, the first indexing section 188a is formed in a radially facing curved or surface of the filter. The filter having an or surface with the indexing section comprises filtration material, preferably formed in a cylinder extending longitudinally. The filtration material is any known filtration material, and in particular, is formed of cellulose acetate tow. The filtration material is wrapped in one or more sheets of flexible material.
Preferably, the sheet material is paper, and may be known as plugwrap. The paper extends around the curved sides of the cylinder of filtration material.
The paper forms, or supports, a continuous outer surface defining the grooves and ridges of the first indexing section. The paper is deformed to form the grooves and ridges, and treated such that the shape of the grooves and ridges are permanently maintained in the paper. The paper is shaped to define grooves and ridges before it is wrapped around the filtration material. The paper plugwrap is not cut to define the grooves. The paper may be deformed by embossing, extrusion, crimping or applying any form of pressure, in particular using rollers. The paper may be heated during formation of the depressions.
The paper al wrapping the filtration material is optionally overwrapped by a film. The film provides a uous exterior e defining the plurality of grooves. The film is preferably a plastics material, in particular a polymer, for example, polypropylene. The film may be transparent, or may be opaque.
The plastics film es an exterior surface which may be more rigid than the grooves and ridges formed in the supporting paper alone. The film inhibits the grooves and ridges being smoothed out by t with the engaging part of the indexing ism during rotation. The film is applied to grooves and ridges which have already been formed in the paper plugwrap. The pre-determined high rigidity of the exterior surface provides for a large volume of sound, as the indexing mechanism is moved from one index position to the next.
The sleeve 183 comprises a second indexing section 188b. The second indexing n 188b is located on the or of the sleeve 183, at the rearward end, and has one or more features engagable with the first indexing section 188a.
The second indexing section 188b may have substantially the same profile and formation as the first indexing section 188b, and dimensioned to fit around the first indexing section 188b. The second indexing section 188b ably has a corrugated inner e. In particular, the first indexing section 188b has an interior surface which is not smooth, and preferably comprises a plurality of elongate grooves, separated by ridges, which extend ntially longitudinally.
The ity of ridges and grooves may define a sinuous outer surface, which smoothly oscillates in radius. The ridge between adjacent depressions may have a curved profile with a substantially uniform radius of curvature. The ridge between adjacent depressions defines a single circumferential point of m resistance to movement of the engaging feature between the nt depressions. Alternatively, the grooves may be formed as flutes, having a concave profile. The ridge between adjacent depressions may have a pointed, creased or tapering, profile, having a substantially sharp point of maximum radius. The ridge between adjacent depressions defines a single circumferential point of maximum resistance to movement of the engaging feature n the adjacent depressions. Thus, both the first and second ng sections may provide protrusions which engage in depressions in the other of the first and second indexing sections. atively, only one of the first and second indexing sections may have indexing depressions which are engagable by a protrusion on the other of the first and second indexing sections.
The second indexing section 188b may be formed by a sheet of flexible material, e.g. cellulose acetate or paper, which is corrugated, formed into a tube and affixed to an inner surface of the sleeve 183. Preferably, the second indexing section 188b has substantially the same, or similar, configuration and shape to the first indexing section 188a. The second indexing section 188b may be overwrapped with a film, substantially as described with respect to the first indexing section 188a.
The method of cture of an exemplary tubular indexing member defining the first or second indexing section 188a,188b is now described. The tubular indexing member is formed from a blank of sheet material, preferably cellulose acetate, or alternatively, paper. The cellulose acetate sheet may be formed from steam treated cellulose acetate tow, which is rolled with one or more s to form a strip of sheet material. The strip of sheet al is passed h one or more crimping s in order to corrugate the sheet material. The sheet material is deformed such that both sides define the s and ridges. The ed sheet material is then wrapped around a filter (including plugwrap) and/or tobacco rod of the tobacco unit. The d sheet material is held in the form of a tube by an adhesive applied on a lap seam along the length of the r , similarly to formation of tipping paper around a conventional smoking article.
Alternatively, the first and second indexing sections 188a,188b may engage with different configurations. In particular, the first or second indexing section 188a,188b may comprise one or more te protrusions extending radially outwardly or inwardly from the interior of the sleeve 183 respectively. The protrusion is configured to engage in the grooves of the other of the first or second indexing section 188b,188a to control rotation. The protrusion may be formed by a dot of raised ink, dot of glue, by an indent, by an embossing, or by any other suitable means to engage with the first indexing section. The first and second indexing surfaces are provided on two adjacent areas of the first and second parts The first and/or second ng sections 188a,188b are resiliently deformable to allow the protruding es of each part to releasably engage. Application of a rotational force above a threshold level causes resilient deformation of the first and/or second ng sections 188a, providing for rotation to the next indexed position where features of each part engage.
Rotation of the sleeve 183 may be accompanied with an e sound, e.g. a click, at each pre-determined position. The indexing mechanism functions to resist rotation between the first and second parts of the smoking article, unless sufficient force is d and the parts rotate to the next indexed position. The indexing mechanism provides feedback to a user that the first and second parts have been rotated, preferably in the form of touch in the indexing movement and/or sound as each indexing position is engaged. The indexing mechanism does not limit rotation to a ined range of rotation. Alternatively, the first and/or second indexing sections 88b may limit rotation to a range of between 90º and 180º, and preferably to a range of approximately 120º.
The sleeve 183 is restrained from moving forwardly over the tobacco unit. The ridges (radially innermost areas) of the second indexing section 188b are configured to engage with a part of the tobacco unit. The ridges of the second indexing section 188b extend over only a part of the length of the sleeve and a forward edge engages with a part of the tobacco unit which has a radius r than the grooves of the first indexing section 188a. In particular, the forward edge of second indexing section 188b engages with the tubular member 189 or other part of the tobacco unit which is not grooved and has a radius greater than the ridges of the second indexing section 188b.
Referring to Figures 4 and 5, the tubular member 189 on the tobacco unit 181 is formed from a blank of air impermeable sheet material e.g. paper. The member 189 surrounds the tobacco unit 181, forwardly of the first indexing section 188a. Figure 5 shows the blank prior to forming into a tube. The blank 189 has a surface comprising a first set of ventilation areas 182a allowing ingress of air through a plurality of second ation apertures 187 located within the ventilation areas 182a. Preferably, the blank comprises a first and second set of ation areas 182a spaced circumferentially. The blank 189 onally has an air impermeable section 182b which prevents ingress of air. Preferably, there are two ventilation areas 182b spaced circumferentially and alternating with the ventilation areas 182a.
The sleeve 183 surrounds the member 189, and the first ventilation aperture 186 overlies the member 189. The onal alignment of the first and second ventilation apertures 186,187, as controlled by the indexing sections 188a,188b, determines the ventilation of the smoking article 180.
The smoking article 180 is bed as having a filter 184 ed to the o rod. Alternatively, the smoking article may comprise a first and second filter. A first filter (not shown) may be ed to the tobacco rod, and the second filter attached to the first filter. The second filter is fixed relative to the tobacco rod. Alternatively, the second filter may be attached to the sleeve, and rotate with the sleeve relative to the first filter..
Figures 6 to 9 show a second embodiment of smoking article 190. Smoking article 190 is formed substantially as described in the embodiment above. The smoking article 190 ses a tobacco unit 191, which may comprise a tobacco rod and a filter. A first part comprising the tobacco unit 191 is le relative to a second part of the smoking e comprising a sleeve 193. The sleeve 193 is rotatable relative to the o unit 191, and the sleeve 193 is not movable longitudinally relative to the tobacco unit 191. The tobacco unit 191 has a rearward end, which is surrounded by the sleeve 193.
The sleeve 193 is provided with one or more first ventilation apertures 196 adjacent to a forward end. ably, the sleeve 193 comprises a plurality of first ventilation apertures 196 in an array extending longitudinally and circumferentially, and preferably a rectangular area. Preferably, the sleeve 193 comprises two arrays of first ventilation apertures 196 spaced circumferentially.
The tobacco unit 191 comprises one or more second ventilation apertures 197 adjacent to a rearward end. Preferably, the tobacco unit 191 comprises two sets of second ventilation apertures 197 spaced circumferentially, preferably each being a single aperture, and surrounded by an air-impermeable surface.
Alternatively, the tobacco unit 191 comprises a single second ventilation re 197 ing udinally and circumferentially.
Figure 6 shows the g article in a minimum ating state. The first and second ventilation apertures 196,197 are not aligned, preventing ingress of air into the filter and/or tobacco rod of the tobacco unit.
Figure 7 shows the smoking article 190 in the minimum ventilating state. The first and second ventilation apertures 196, 197 are not rotationally aligned, preventing ventilation of the smoking article through ventilation apertures 196, 197.
Figure 8 shows the g article 190 in a ventilating state. The first and second ventilation apertures 196, 197 are rotationally aligned, allowing ventilation of the smoking article through ventilation apertures 196, 197 into the body of the filter and/or tobacco rod. s 7 and 8 show a restraining means for inhibiting longitudinal movement between the sleeve 193 and tobacco rod 191. The restraining means ses first and second engaging es 95b. The restraining means 195a, 195b is configured in substantially the same or similar , and performs the same or similar function, as the first and second engaging surfaces 185a,185b described with respect to s 1 to 5. In smoking article 190, the first engaging surface 195a is preferably formed by a sheet of flexible al, e.g. paper, wrapped around the tobacco unit. The sheet of flexible material may be formed as a separate tube formed from a blank and attached to the o rod and filter, substantially as described for the tubular member 189 described with respect to Figures 1 to 5.
Figure 9 shows an exploded view of the smoking article 190. The smoking article 190 comprises a tobacco unit 191 having a filter attached to the tobacco rod.
As shown in Figures 7 to 9, the smoking article 190 comprises a l mechanism in the form of an indexing mechanism configured to control rotation between the sleeve 193 and tobacco unit 191. The ng mechanism comprises a first indexing section 198a on the tobacco unit which is engaged with a second indexing section 198b on the sleeve 193. The sleeve 193 is rotatable relative to the tobacco unit 191 into a plurality of pre-determined indexed rotational positions. The indexing mechanism is configured in the same or similar manner, and performs the same or similar function, as the indexing mechanism described with respect to Figures 1 to 5. In particular, the first indexing sections and/or second indexing section 198b 198a is a corrugated surface formed in the exterior of a tubular member 192 or surface of the filter. The first and/or second indexing n may se a film overwrap.
The smoking article 190 is provided with an tor for indicating the ventilation. The indicator comprises a marking 199 on the tobacco unit 191 which is visible beyond the sleeve 193. The marking 199 is aligned with the second ation res 197. Alignment of the marking 199 with the first ventilation apertures 196 indicates the first ventilation apertures 196 and second ventilation apertures 197 are aligned, and ventilation is provided.
Partial alignment of the marking 199 with the first ation apertures 196 indicates a corresponding partial ventilation.
The smoking article 190 is configured such that an initial ation state can be selected as a minimum ventilation state, a maximum ventilation state or an intermediate ventilation state n the maximum and minimum values, as bed with respect to Figures 1 to 5. s 10 to 12 show a third embodiment of smoking article 200. Smoking article 200 is formed substantially as described in any of the embodiments above. The smoking article 200 comprises a tobacco unit 201, which may comprise a tobacco rod and a first filter 202. A first part comprising the tobacco unit 201 is moveable relative to a second part of the smoking article comprising a sleeve 203. The tobacco unit 201 is adjacent, and rotatably connected to, a second filter 204 fixed to the sleeve 203. The sleeve 203 is rotatable relative to the tobacco unit 201, and the sleeve 203 is not movable udinally relative to the tobacco unit 201. The tobacco unit 201 has a rearward end, which is surrounded by the sleeve 203.
The sleeve is provided with one or more first ventilation apertures (not shown) at one or more circumferential positions. The first ventilation aperture may extend circumferentially over only a part of the circumference, and preferably, is formed by a circumferentially extending slit allowing ation through the sleeve.
The tobacco unit is provided with one or more second ation apertures (not shown) at one or more circumferential positions. The second ventilation aperture may extend circumferentially over only a part of the circumference, and preferably, is formed by a ferentially extending slit allowing ventilation into the tobacco unit, i.e. into a filter or tobacco rod. Alternatively, the first and second ation apertures may extend longitudinally at a circumferential position or range, or extend both longitudinally and ferentially.
The lengths of the circumferential slits forming the first and second ventilation apertures may be equal to a range of rotational movement, such that the ventilation res are rotatable between a fully aligned position, and a non- aligned position in which the ation apertures are circumferentially adjacent but not aligned.
In the minimum ating state, the first and second ventilation res are not aligned. In a ventilating state, the first and second ventilation apertures are aligned. The state of ventilation is selected by relative rotation of the sleeve and tobacco unit. The first and second filters 202,204 twist relative to each other as required to select an overlap or alignment of the first and second ventilation apertures.
The smoking article 200 is configured such that an initial ventilation state can be selected as a minimum ventilation state, a maximum ventilation state or an intermediate ation state between the maximum and minimum values, as described with respect to Figures 1 to 5.
Figure 10 shows the smoking article 200 in a non-ventilating state. The first and second filters 202,204 are formed as a single integral filter. The first filter 202 is partially separated from the second filter 204 by a lateral cut 205. The lateral cut 205 extends over a radially outer part of the first and second filters 202,204. A radially inner core 205a connects the first and second filters 202,204. The central core 205a of tion material maintains the attachment of the first filter to the second filter.
Figure 11 shows the smoking article 200 in a ventilating state. The first and second filters 202,204 have been rotated relative to each other, with the central core 205a twisting around a longitudinal axis. The central core 205a maintains the attachment of the first filter to the second filter whilst twisted.
Figure 12 shows an exploded view of the smoking article 200. The smoking e 200 comprises a tobacco unit 201 having a first filter 202 attached to the o rod. The second filter 204 is attached to and located rearwardly of the first filter. The second filter 204 is adjacent to, and rotatable relative to, the first filter 202.
As shown in Figure 12, the smoking article 200 comprises a control mechanism in the form of an indexing mechanism configured to control rotation n the sleeve 203 and tobacco unit 201. The indexing mechanism comprises a first indexing section 208a on the o unit which is engaged with a second indexing n 208b on the sleeve 203. The sleeve 203 is ble relative to the tobacco unit 201 into a plurality of pre-determined indexed rotational positions. The indexing mechanism is configured in substantially the same or similar manner, and ms the same or similar function, as the first and second indexing sections described with respect to Figures 1 to 5. In particular, the first indexing section 208a is a corrugated surface formed on a sleeve 208 attached to an exterior surface of the first . The sleeve 208 is affixed around the first filter, and may optionally also be affixed to the tobacco rod to connect the first filter to the tobacco rod. The first and/or second indexing section may comprise a film overwrap. Alternatively, the indexing section 208a may be formed on an exterior of the first filter and/or tobacco rod, e.g. the grooves and ridges are formed on a wrap around filtration material. The rotational alignment of the first and second filters 4, as controlled by the indexing sections 08b, determines the ventilation of the smoking article 200.
The smoking article 200 is ed with an indicator for indicating the relative rotation of the sleeve and tobacco unit, and so indicates the ventilation. The indicator ses at least one marking on the tobacco unit 201 which is visible beyond the sleeve 203. Preferably, the tobacco unit 201 is provided with a first and a second circumferentially spaced markings. The markings are alignable with a marking on the sleeve. Alignment of the first marking with the marking on the sleeve indicates ventilation is inhibited.
Alignment of the second marking with the marking on the sleeve ventilation is provided.
A shim 209 may be located between the sleeve 203 and second filter 204. The shim 209 has an exterior surface which substantially matches the radius of sleeve 208 to allow the sleeve 203 to extend substantially longitudinally. The shim 209 may be a tubular member, preferably of paper, adhered to the sleeve and second filter.
Figures 13 to 15 show a fourth embodiment of smoking article 700. Smoking article 700 is formed substantially as described in any of the embodiments above. The smoking article 700 ses a tobacco unit 701, which may comprise a tobacco rod and a filter 702. A first part comprising the o unit 701 is moveable ve to a second part of the g article comprising a sleeve 703. The tobacco unit 701 is adjacent, and rotatably connected, to a second filter 704. The sleeve 703 is rotatable relative to the tobacco unit 701, and the sleeve 703 is not movable udinally ve to the tobacco unit 701. The tobacco unit 701 has a rearward end, which is surrounded by the sleeve 703.
The sleeve is provided with one or more first ventilation apertures 706 at one or more circumferential positions or ranges. The first ventilation aperture may extend circumferentially over only a part of the circumference, and preferably, is formed by a circumferential slit allowing ventilation through the sleeve.
The tobacco unit is provided with one or more second ventilation res 707 at one or more circumferential ons. The second ventilation aperture may extend circumferentially over only a part of the circumference, and preferably, is formed by a circumferential slit allowing ventilation into the o unit, i.e. into a filter or tobacco rod. The lengths of the circumferential slits forming the ventilation apertures may be equal to the range of rotational nt, such that the ventilation apertures are movable between a fully aligned position, and a non-aligned position in which the ventilation apertures are circumferentially adjacent but not aligned.
Figure 13 shows the smoking article 700 in a non-ventilating state. In the non- ventilating state, the first and second ventilation apertures 7 are not aligned. In a ventilating state, the first and second ventilation apertures are aligned. The state of ventilation is selected by relative rotation of the sleeve and tobacco unit. The first and second filters 4 twist relative to each other as required to select an overlap or alignment of the first and second ventilation apertures. Alternatively, the first and second ventilation apertures may extend longitudinally at a single circumferential position, or extend both longitudinally and circumferentially.
The smoking article 700 is configured such that an initial ventilation state can be selected as a minimum ation state, a maximum ventilation state or an intermediate ventilation state between the maximum and m values, as described with respect to Figures 1 to 5.
The first and second filters 702,704 are formed as a single al filter. The first filter 702 is partially separated from the second filter 704 by a lateral cut 705. The cut 705 extends over a radially outer part of the first and second filters 702,704. A radially inner core 705a connects the first and second filters 702,704. The central core 705a of filtration al maintains the attachment of the first filter to the second filter.
Figure 14 shows the smoking article 700 in a ventilating state. The first and second ventilation apertures 7 are aligned. The first and second s 702,704 have been rotated relative to each other, with the central core 705a twisting around a longitudinal axis. The central core 705a maintains the attachment of the first filter to the second filter whilst twisted.
Figure 15 shows an exploded view of the g article 700. The smoking article 700 comprises a tobacco unit 701 having a first filter 702 attached to the tobacco rod. A second filter 704 is ed to and located rearwardly of the first filter. The second filter 704 is adjacent to, rotatable relative to, the first filter 702.
As shown in Figure 15, the smoking article 700 comprises a control mechanism in the form of an indexing mechanism configured to control rotation between the sleeve 703 and tobacco unit 701. The indexing mechanism comprises a first indexing section 709 on the tobacco unit which is d with a second indexing section 710 on the sleeve 703. The sleeve 703 is rotatable relative to the tobacco unit 701 into a plurality of pre-determined indexed rotational positions. The indexing ism is configured in substantially the same or r manner, and performs the same or similar function, as the first and second indexing sections described with respect to Figures 1 to 5. The first indexing section 709 is formed on a tubular indexing member 711 which is fixedly attached to the first filter and/or tobacco rod. The grooves and ridges are formed in a blank of material, preferably cellulose acetate or paper, which is then attached to the tobacco unit around the first filter, and optionally also around the tobacco rod. The tubular ng member 711 may t the filter to the tobacco rod, or may be ed to the first filter and tobacco rod which are connected by another means, e.g. tipping paper (not shown). The first and/or second indexing n may comprise a film overwrap, substantially as described with respect to Figures 1 to 5.
The first indexing section 709 preferably extends over substantially the whole length of the first , and optionally over a part of the length of the tobacco rod. The second indexing section may extend over the whole length of the . Alternatively, the second indexing section 710 may extend over only a forward part of the sleeve, corresponding to the first indexing section 709. The rotational alignment of the first and second parts, as controlled by the indexing sections 709,710, determine the ventilation of the g article 700.
A forward end of the sleeve 703 abuts a rearward facing surface formed on a raised section 708. The raised section 708 is preferably one or more layers of le material, preferably paper, surrounding the first filter and/or tobacco rod. The raised section 708 has an exterior surface which is preferably flush with an exterior surface of the sleeve 703. The raised section 708 may be formed by folding outwardly and back a forward end of the sleeve 711, or may be a strip of sheet material e.g. paper, d to an exterior of the indexing member 711.
The smoking article 700 is provided with an indicator for indicating the relative rotation of the sleeve and tobacco unit, and so indicates the ventilation. The indicator comprises at least one marking on the tobacco unit 701 which is visible beyond the sleeve 703. Preferably, the tobacco unit 701 is provided with a first and a second circumferentially spaced marking. The markings are formed on the raised n 708, and are alignable with a g on the sleeve. Alignment of the first g with the marking on the sleeve indicates ventilation is inhibited. Alignment of the second marking with the marking on the sleeve indicates ventilation is provided.
Figures 16 and 17 show a fifth embodiment of smoking article 720. Smoking article 720 is formed substantially as described in any of the embodiments above. The smoking e 720 ses a tobacco unit 721, which may comprise a tobacco rod and a first filter 722. A first part comprising the tobacco unit 721 is moveable relative to a second part of the smoking article sing a sleeve 723. The tobacco unit 721 is nt to a second filter 724. The second filter 724 is fixed to the sleeve 723 and is located rearwardly of, and abutting, the separate first filter 722. The second filter 724 is rotatable relative to the first filter 722 as the first part is rotatable relative to the second part.
The sleeve 723 is rotatable relative to the tobacco unit 721, and the sleeve 723 is not movable longitudinally relative to the tobacco unit 721. The tobacco unit 721 has a rearward end, which is surrounded by the sleeve 723.
The sleeve 723 is provided with one or more first ventilation apertures 726 at one or more circumferential positions. The first ventilation aperture may extend circumferentially over only a part of the circumference. Preferably, the first ventilation apertures se a first and second aperture 726 which are circumferentially spaced. The tobacco unit 721 is provided with one or more second ventilation apertures 727 in an exterior air impermeable surface at one or more circumferential positions. The second ventilation aperture may extend circumferentially over only a part of the ference, and preferably, is formed by a single aperture extending circumferentially and longitudinally.
The second ventilation aperture 727 may ively extend over none, one or all of the first ventilation apertures.
In the non-ventilating state, the first and second ventilation apertures 726,727 are not aligned. In a ventilating state, the first and second ventilation apertures 726,727 are d. The state of ventilation is selected by relative rotation of the sleeve and tobacco unit. The first and second filters 722,724 rotate freely relative to each other as required to select an overlap or alignment of the first and second ation apertures.
Figure 16 shows the smoking article 720 in a ventilating state. The first and second ventilation apertures 726,727 are aligned. The ventilation of the smoking article 720 is variable by relative rotation between the sleeve and tobacco unit, without extending the smoking article.
The sleeve 723 is prevented from longitudinal movement over the tobacco unit by a restraining means. The restraining means comprises a first and second engaging surfaces 731a,731b preventing rearward movement of the sleeve 723 relative to the tobacco unit 721.
The first engaging surface 731a on the tobacco unit is preferably formed on a section of increased er, having a step change in er from an adjacent d section of the tobacco unit. The forward facing first engaging surface 731a is preferably formed on a tubular member 733 formed from a blank of a sheet material (e.g. paper or cellulose acetate) wrapped around the tobacco unit. The first engaging surface 731a is preferably formed by folding outwardly and forwardly a rearward edge of the tubular member 733, or may be formed by g paper or r sheet al wrapped around the o unit or tubular member 733.
The second engaging surface 731b is provided within an interior surface of the cylindrical tube forming the sleeve 733. The second engaging surface 731b is provided on an inwardly folded section of the sleeve 733, formed by folding inwardly a forward end of the sleeve blank.
The second engaging surface 731b is formed between the forward and rd ends of the sleeve, and inside of the cylindrical sleeve forming an or surface of the sleeve. The second engaging surface 731b is therefore formed within an exterior surface of the second part. The tubular member 733 may connect the first filter 722 to the source of smokable material, or may be an additional sheet of material wrapped around the ference of the tobacco unit.
The restraining means further comprises a raised section 728, being a section of increased diameter, having a step change in diameter from an adjacent rearward section of the tobacco unit. A forward end of the sleeve 723 abuts a rearward facing third engaging surface 728a formed by a rearward edge of the raised section 728. The raised section 728 is ably one or more layers of flexible material, preferably paper, surrounding the first filter and/or tobacco rod. The raised n 728 has an exterior surface which is ntially flush with an exterior surface of the sleeve 723. The raised section 728 prevents forward longitudinal movement of the sleeve 723.
The raised section 728 and third engaging surface 728a may be formed by folding outwardly and rearwardly a forward end of the tubular member 733.
Alternatively, the raised n 728 may be a te piece of material d to the tubular member 733. The first, second and third engaging surfaces have been described as formed on a folded sheet of flexible material, preferably paper. Alternatively, one or more of the first, second and third engaging surfaces may be formed by a band of material d to the first or second part, by embossing, or by any other means to create a raised edge.
Figure 17 shows an exploded view of the smoking article 720. The smoking article 720 comprises a tobacco unit 721 having a first filter 722 attached to the o rod.
As shown in Figure 17, the smoking article 720 comprises a control mechanism in the form of an indexing mechanism configured to control rotation between the sleeve 723 and tobacco unit 721. The indexing mechanism comprises a first indexing n 729 on the tobacco unit which is engaged with a second ng section 730 on the sleeve 723. The sleeve 723 is rotatable relative to the tobacco unit 721 into a plurality of pre-determined indexed rotational positions. Preferably, the first and/or second ng sections comprise longitudinal grooves and ridges, which are preferably formed by substantially longitudinally extending lines of raised ink or glue. The lines of raised ink form features which are spaced circumferentially and are engagable by a protrusion on the other of the first or second part. The lines of raised ink are on one or both of the exterior of the tobacco unit and an interior of the sleeve.
The ridges of the first indexing section 729 is preferably formed on the tubular member 733 as a blank, prior to forming into a tube, and prior to being affixed to the first filter and/or tobacco rod. The first indexing section 729 preferably extends between the first engaging surface 731a and the third ng surface 728a. Both the first and second indexing surfaces may comprise raised lines, or one may comprise any form of sion, e.g. a dot of ink or glue or embossing, to engage with the raised lines. The function of the indexing mechanism is the same as described in respect of Figures 1 to 5.
Alternatively, the indexing mechanism is configured in a same or similar manner, and performs the same or r function, as the indexing ns described with respect to Figures 1 to 5 or Figures 10 to 12. In particular, the first indexing section 729 is a corrugated surface formed in the exterior surface of the filter 722 or on a tubular member attached to the tobacco rod. The indexing surface may be on a separate indexing member as described with respect to s 1 to 5, affixed to an exterior of the tubular member 733. The first and/or second ng section may ally comprise a film overwrap.
The rotational alignment of the first and second parts, as lled by the ng sections 729,730, determines the ation of the smoking article 720.
The smoking article 720 may comprise a limiting means configured to limit the rotational range of movement of the sleeve. The limiting means comprises a first stop and a second stop, which are circumferentially spaced apart, on one of the first or second parts. The first and second stops are raised above an adjacent surface, and are engagable with a protrusion on the other of the first or second parts to prevent nt of the sion beyond the first or second stop. Preferably, the protrusion also provides for indexing by engagement with grooves and ridges in the other part. The first and second stops may be formed by te pieces of sheet material, e.g. paper, which are affixed, preferably by an adhesive, in a groove of the first or second indexing n.
Alternatively, the first and second stops may be formed by separate tongues of sheet material, e.g. paper, affixed to the first or second indexing section and extending over one or more ridges and/or grooves. The first and second stops may be formed on a single sheet of material, for example, in a C-shape. The protrusion has a range of rotation limited by the opposed sides, e.g. top and bottom of the C-shaped sheet. Alternatively, the first and/or second stops may be formed by a raised dot of glue or a raised dot of ink. Alternatively, the limiting means may comprise one or both of the first or second indexing section ing over only a part of the circumference of the first or second parts. The circumferential edges of the first or second indexing section form stops which inhibit further rotation. A limiting means as described may be present on any of the embodiments having an indexing mechanism to limit the range of rotation.
The smoking article 720 is provided with an indicator for indicating the relative on of the sleeve and tobacco unit, and so indicates the ventilation. The indicator comprises at least one marking on the tobacco unit 721 which is visible beyond the sleeve 723. The markings are formed on the raised section 728, and are alignable with a marking on the sleeve. Alignment of the first marking with the marking on the sleeve indicates alignment or nonalignment of the first and second ventilation apertures 726,727.
Figures 18 and 19 show a sixth embodiment of smoking article 740. Smoking article 740 is formed substantially as described in any of the embodiments above. The smoking article 740 comprises a tobacco unit 741, which may comprise a tobacco rod and a first filter 742. A first part comprising the tobacco unit 741 is moveable relative to a second part of the smoking article comprising a sleeve 743. The tobacco unit 741 is adjacent and bly connected to a second filter 744. The second filter 744 is fixed to the sleeve 743 and is rotatable relative to the first filter 742 as the first part is rotatable relative to the second part.
The sleeve 743 is rotatable relative to the tobacco unit 741, and the sleeve 743 is not e longitudinally relative to the o unit 741. The tobacco unit 741 has a rearward end, which is nded by the sleeve 743.
The sleeve 743 is provided with one or more first ventilation apertures 746 in the air impermeable material of the sleeve, at one or more circumferential positions. The first ventilation aperture may extend circumferentially over only a part of the circumference. Preferably, the first ventilation apertures comprise a first and second re 746 which are circumferentially spaced. The first ventilation aperture(s) 746 are preferably shaped to indicate to a user that the sleeve 743 is rotatable. The first and second ventilation apertures 746 preferably taper in width in a circumferential direction. In particular, the first and second ventilation apertures 746 are each triangular, having their apexes pointing circumferentially in opposite ions.
The tobacco unit 741 is ed with one or more second ation apertures 747 in an exterior air impermeable surface at one or more circumferential positions. The second ventilation aperture may extend circumferentially over only a part of the circumference, and preferably, is formed by an array of res extending ferentially and longitudinally. The second ventilation aperture 747 may ively extend over none, part of one, one or all of the first ventilation apertures.
In the non-ventilating state, the first and second ventilation apertures 746,747 are not d. In a ventilating state, the first and second ventilation apertures 746,747 are aligned. The state of ventilation is selected by relative rotation of the sleeve and tobacco unit. The first and second filters 742,744 rotate relative to each other as required to select an p or alignment of the first and second ventilation apertures.
The smoking e 740 is configured such that an l ventilation state can be selected as a minimum ventilation state, a maximum ventilation state or an intermediate ventilation state between the maximum and m values, as described with respect to s 1 to 5.
Figure 18 shows the smoking article 740 in a ventilating state. The first and second ventilation apertures 746,747 are aligned. The ventilation of the smoking article 740 is variable by relative rotation, t extending the smoking article. The sleeve 743 is freely rotatable relative to tobacco unit 741.
The first and second filters 742,744 are formed as a single integral filter. The first filter 742 is partially separated from the second filter 744 by a lateral cut 745. The cut 745 s over a radially outer part of the first and second s 742,744. A radially inner core 745a connects the first and second filters 742,744. The central core 745a of filtration material maintains the attachment of the first filter to the second filter.
Figure 18 shows the smoking article 740 in a ventilating state. The first and second filters 742,744 have been rotated ve to each other, with the central core 745a twisting around a longitudinal axis. The central core 745a maintains the attachment of the first filter to the second filter whilst twisted.
The sleeve 743 is further prevented from longitudinal movement over the tobacco unit by a restraining means. The restraining means comprises a first and second engaging surfaces 751a,751b preventing rearward movement of the sleeve 743 ve to the tobacco unit 741.
The first engaging surface 751a on the tobacco unit is preferably formed on a section of increased diameter, having a step change in diameter from an adjacent forward section of the o unit. The forward facing first engaging surface 751a is preferably formed on a tubular member 753 formed from a blank of a sheet material (e.g. paper) wrapped around the tobacco unit. The first engaging surface 751a is preferably formed by folding outwardly and forwardly a rearward edge of the tubular member 733, or may be formed by tipping paper or another sheet material wrapped around the tobacco unit or tubular member 753.
The second engaging surface 751b is provided within an interior e of the cylindrical tube forming the sleeve 753. The second engaging surface 751b is provided on an inwardly folded section of the sleeve 753, formed by folding inwardly a forward end of the sleeve blank.
The second engaging e 751b is formed between the forward and rearward ends of the sleeve, and inside of the cylindrical sleeve forming an exterior surface of the sleeve. The second engaging surface 751b is therefore formed within an or surface of the second part. The tubular member 753 may connect the first filter 742 to the source of le material, or may be an additional sheet of material d around the circumference of the tobacco unit.
The ining means further comprises a raised section 748, being a section of increased diameter, having a step change in diameter from an adjacent rearward section of the tobacco unit. A forward end of the sleeve 743 abuts a rearward facing third engaging e 748a formed by a rearward edge of the raised section 748. The raised section 748 is preferably one or more layers of flexible al, preferably paper, surrounding the first filter and/or tobacco rod. The raised section 748 has an exterior surface which is substantially flush with an exterior surface of the sleeve 743. The raised section 748 prevents d longitudinal nt of the sleeve 743.
The raised section 748 and third engaging surface 748a may be formed by g outwardly and rearwardly a forward end of the tubular member 753.
Alternatively, the raised n 748 may be a separate piece of material affixed to the tubular member 753. The first, second and third engaging surfaces have been described as formed on a folded sheet of flexible material, preferably paper. Alternatively, one or more of the first, second and third engaging surfaces may be formed by a band of material affixed to the first or second part, by embossing, or by any other means to create a raised edge.
Figure 19 shows an exploded view of the smoking article 740. The smoking article 740 comprises a tobacco unit 741 having a first filter 742 attached to the tobacco rod. As shown in Figure 19, the smoking article 740 comprises a control mechanism in the form of an indexing mechanism configured to control rotation between the sleeve 743 and tobacco unit 741. The indexing ism comprises a first indexing n 749 on the tobacco unit which is engaged with a second indexing section 750 on the sleeve 743. The sleeve 743 is rotatable relative to the tobacco unit 741 into a plurality of termined indexed rotational positions. Preferably, of the first and or second ng sections comprise longitudinal grooves and ridges, which are preferably formed by substantially udinally extending lines of raised ink or glue.
The lines of raised ink or glue form features which are spaced circumferentially and are engagable by a protrusion on the other of the first or second part, as described with respect to Figures 16 to 18. The lines of raised ink are on one or both of the exterior of the tobacco unit and an interior of the sleeve. The ridges of the first indexing section 749 are preferably formed on the tubular member 753 as a blank, prior to forming into a tube, and prior to being d to the first filter and/or tobacco rod. The first indexing section 749 preferably extends between the first engaging surface 751a and the third engaging surface 748a. Both the first and second indexing surfaces may comprise raised lines, or one may se any form of protrusion, e.g. a dot of ink or glue or embossing, to engage with the raised lines. The function of the indexing mechanism is the same as described in respect of Figures 1 to 5.
Alternatively, the indexing mechanism is configured in a same or similar manner, and performs the same or r function, as the indexing sections described with respect to Figures 1 to 5 or Figures 10 to 12. In particular, the first indexing n 749 is on a tubular member attached to the first filter and/or tobacco rod, or a corrugated surface formed in the exterior surface of the filter 742. The indexing surface may be on a separate ng member as described with respect to Figures 1 to 5, affixed to an exterior of the tubular member 753. The first and/or second indexing section may optionally comprise a film overwrap.
The smoking article 740 may comprise a limiting means configured to limit the rotational range of movement of the sleeve. The limiting means comprises a first stop and a second stop, which are circumferentially spaced apart, on one of the first or second parts. The first and second stops raised above the nt surface, and are engagable with a protrusion on the other of the first or second parts to prevent movement of the protrusion beyond the first or second stop. Preferably, the protrusion also provides for indexing by engagement with grooves and ridges in the other part. The first and second stops may be formed by separate pieces of sheet material, e.g. paper, which is affixed, preferably by an adhesive, in a groove of the first or second indexing n. Alternatively, the first and second stops may be formed by separate tongues of sheet material, e.g. paper, affixed to the first or second indexing section and ing over one or more ridges and grooves. The first and second stops may be formed on a single sheet of material, for example, in a C- shape. The protrusion has a range of rotation limited by the d sides, e.g. top and bottom of the C-shaped sheet. Alternatively, the first and/or second stops may be formed by a raised dot of glue or a raised dot of ink. Alternatively, the limiting means may comprise one or both of the first or second indexing section extending over only a part of the ference of the first or second parts. The circumferential edges of the first or second indexing n form stops which inhibit further rotation.
The rotational alignment of the first and second parts, as controlled by the indexing sections 749,750, determines the ventilation of the smoking article 740.
The g article 740 is provided with an indicator for indicating the relative rotation of the sleeve and o unit, and so indicates the ventilation. The indicator comprises at least one marking on the tobacco unit 741 which is e beyond the sleeve 743. The markings are formed on the raised section 748, and are alignable with a marking on the sleeve. Alignment of the first marking with the marking on the sleeve tes alignment or nonalignment of the first and second ventilation apertures 746,747. s 20 and 21 show a h embodiment of smoking article 760.
Smoking article 760 is formed substantially as described in any of the embodiments above. The smoking article 760 comprises a tobacco unit 761, which may comprise a tobacco rod and a filter. A first part comprising the tobacco unit 761 is moveable relative to a second part of the smoking article comprising a sleeve 763. The sleeve 763 is slidable in a longitudinal direction relative to the tobacco unit 761. The sleeve 763 is not movable rotationally relative to the tobacco unit 761. The tobacco unit 761 has a rearward end, which is circumscribed by the sleeve 763.
The tobacco unit 761 comprises one or more ventilation apertures 767 adjacent to a rearward end. Preferably, the tobacco unit 761 comprises a plurality of ventilation apertures 767 in a row extending circumferentially. The ation res 767 allow ingress of air through an air impermeable outer surface into tobacco unit 761, in particular into the filter and/or into the tobacco rod ning a source of smokable material. The ventilation res 767 are formed in a first guide section 769 over which the sleeve 763 can be moved longitudinally.
The sleeve 763 is an annular tubular ring slidable longitudinally over first guide section 769 of the tobacco rod. The sleeve 763 is formed of an ermeable material, preferably paper.
The guide section 769 of the tobacco rod comprises restraining means to limit the longitudinal travel of the sleeve 763. Preferably, the restraining means comprises one or more protrusions 768 ing radially outwardly from the tobacco rod. The protrusions 768 may be formed from or glue ink forming a raised dot. The protrusions 768 limit rearward travel of the sleeve 763. Each protrusion 768 may be circumferentially aligned with a ventilation aperture 767. The restraining means is arranged such that the sleeve 763 can move n a first position covering the ventilation apertures 767, and a second position in which the ventilation apertures 767 are not covered.
The ining means may further comprise means to limit longitudinal travel of the sleeve in a forward direction. At least a part of the exterior surface of the tobacco unit 761, forward of first guide section 769, extends radially outwardly of at least a part of the section 769, as will be bed in more detail below.
Figure 20 shows the smoking article in a ventilating state, in which the sleeve is in the second position. The sleeve 763 is rearwardly of the ventilation apertures 767, allowing s of air into the smoking article.
Figure 21 shows the smoking article in a non-ventilating state, in which the sleeve is in the first position. The sleeve 763 is covering the ventilation apertures 767, preventing s of air into the smoking article through the ventilation res 767.
As shown in Figures 20 and 21, the smoking article 760 comprises a l mechanism in the form of a guide mechanism configured to control rotation between the sleeve 763 and tobacco unit 761. In particular, the guide mechanism allows longitudinal movement of sleeve 763 and prevents any rotation n the sleeve 763 and tobacco unit 761.
The guide mechanism has a similar form as the indexing mechanism described with respect to Figures 1 to 5, with the guide mechanism configured to inhibit on, e.g. by having a greater depth and/or rigidity than the indexing mechanism. The guide mechanism comprises the first guide section 769 on the tobacco unit which is engaged with a second guide section on the sleeve 763.
The first guide section 769 and second guide section preferably have the same shape, configuration and construction as the first and second indexing surfaces described with respect to Figures 1 to 5. The sleeve 763 is configured to not rotate relative to the tobacco unit 761. The o unit 761 comprises the first guide section 769 at its rearward end, and surrounded by the sleeve 763. The first guide section 769 preferably has a corrugated or surface. In ular, the first guide section 769 has an outer surface which is not smooth, and ably comprises a plurality of ridges and grooves extending longitudinally. The second filter 764 is located within the first guide section 769. In particular, the plurality of ridges and grooves define a sinuous outer surface, which smoothly oscillates in radius.
The first guide section may be formed on any exterior surface of the first part of the smoking e. In particular, the first guide section 769 may be formed on a tubular guide member 770 surrounding the filter. The tubular guide member 770 surrounding the filter is separate to the filtration material and ap g the , and may optionally connect the filter to the tobacco rod. The tubular guide member 770 defining the first guide section 769 may be a tubular cellulose acetate or paper sleeve having depressions and/or protrusions as described above, and may be attached to the filter by an adhesive. The features of the first guide section 769 are formed when the sleeve is a blank prior to forming a sleeve, and prior to attachment of the sleeve to the filter and/or o rod, substantially as described with respect to Figures 1 to The guide grooves and ridges ably extend around the whole circumference of the tobacco unit, or alternatively, extend around only a part of the circumference of the tobacco unit.
Alternatively, the first guide section 769 is formed in a radially facing curved exterior surface of the filter. The filter having an exterior surface with the guide section comprises filtration material, preferably formed in a cylinder extending longitudinally. The filtration material is any known filtration al, and in particular, is formed of cellulose acetate tow. The filtration material is wrapped in one or more sheets of flexible material. Preferably, the flexible material is paper, and may be known as plugwrap. The paper extends around the curved sides of the cylinder of filtration al. The paper forms, or supports, a continuous outer surface defining the grooves and ridges of the first guide section. The paper is deformed to form the grooves and , and treated such that the shape of the grooves and ridges are permanently maintained in the paper. The paper is shaped to define grooves and ridges before it is wrapped around the filtration material. The paper ap is not cut to define the grooves. The paper may be deformed by ing, extrusion, crimping or applying any form of pressure, in particular using rollers. The paper may be heated during ion of the depressions.
The first and/or second guide n is optionally overwrapped by a film. The film provides a continuous exterior surface defining the plurality of grooves.
The film is preferably a plastics al, for example, in particular a polymer, for example, polypropylene. The film may be transparent, or may be opaque.
The plastics film provides an exterior surface which is more rigid than the grooves and ridges formed in the paper and filtration material. The film inhibits the grooves and ridges being smoothed out by t with the engaging part of the guide mechanism.
The sleeve 763 comprises a second guide section 768b. The second guide section (not shown) is located on the interior of the sleeve 763, at the rearward end, and preferably has a corrugated inner surface. In particular, the second guide section has an inner surface which is not smooth, and preferably comprises a plurality of ridges and grooves extending longitudinally. In ular, the plurality of ridges and grooves define a sinuous outer surface, which smoothly oscillates in radius.
The second guide section may be formed by a sheet of flexible material, e.g. paper, which is corrugated and affixed to an inner e of the sleeve 763.
Preferably, the second guide section has substantially the same, or similar, configuration and shape to the first guide section 769. The second guide section defines a plurality of ridges, between the grooves, which are engagable with the first guide section. Alternatively, the first and second guide sections 769 may engage with ent configurations. In particular, the second guide section may comprise one or more discrete protrusion extending radially inwardly from the interior of the sleeve 763. The protrusion is configured to engage in the grooves of the first guide section 769 to control rotation. The protrusion may be formed by a dot of raised ink, by embossing, or by any other suitable means to engage with the first guide section.
The guide ism has grooves, ridges, protrusions or other features which are dimensioned or made of materials such that rotation between the first and second parts of the smoking article is inhibited. In particular, the guide mechanism is configured such that the features are not resiliently deformable to allow d rotation with ation of a reasonable force, as is the indexing mechanism of the other embodiments. The guide mechanism is configured such the sleeve can slide freely around the o unit to vary ation, without rotation.
The exterior surface of the o unit forward of section 769 has a substantially constant radius, i.e. does not have grooves formed in it. The exterior surface is radially aligned with the ridges of section 769. The corrugated section 770 of sleeve 763 is configured to engage in the grooves, which are lower than the ridges. Therefore, forward movement of the sleeve is limited by engagement of the inward ities of the sleeve 763 with the upstanding edge of the exterior surface of the tobacco unit at a forward end of the grooves.
Figures 22 to 24 show an eighth embodiment of smoking article 780. Smoking article 780 is formed ntially as described in any of the embodiments above. The smoking article 780 comprises a tobacco unit 781, which may comprise a tobacco rod and a first filter 782. A first part comprising the tobacco unit 781 is moveable relative to a second part of the smoking article comprising a sleeve 783. The tobacco unit 781 is adjacent to a second filter 784. The second filter 784 is located rearwardly of, and abutting, the separate first filter 782. The second filter 784 preferably does not rotate relative to the first filter 782 as the first part is rotated relative to the second part.
The sleeve 783 is rotatable relative to the tobacco unit 781, and the sleeve 783 is not movable longitudinally relative to the tobacco unit 781. The tobacco unit 781 has a rearward end, which is surrounded by the sleeve 783. The sleeve 783 is formed of an air impermeable material, preferably paper.
The sleeve 783 is provided with one or more ventilation cut-outs 786 at one or more circumferential positions. The ation cut-out may extend circumferentially over only a part of the circumference, and preferably, is one or more apertures. ably, the ventilation cut-out comprises a single cutout which is open to a forward end of the tubular sleeve 783.
The tobacco unit 781 is ed with one or more ventilation apertures 787 at one or more circumferential positions. The second ventilation apertures may extend circumferentially over only a part of the circumference, and preferably, is formed by one or more res ing longitudinally at a single circumferential on. Preferably, the ventilation apertures are spaced apart in a single udinally extending row. The second ventilation apertures 787 may substantially either fully aligned or not aligned with the ventilation cutout 786 of the sleeve.
Figure 22 shows the smoking article 780 in the non-ventilating state, in which the ventilation cut-out 786 and ation apertures 787 are not aligned. The impermeable material of the sleeve 783 covers and prevents flow of air to the ventilation apertures 787. The state of ation is selected by relative rotation of the sleeve and tobacco unit. The sleeve is rotatable around the tobacco unit to select the ventilation.
Figure 23 shows the smoking article 780 in a ventilating state. The ventilation cut-out 786 and ation apertures 787 are aligned, allowing flow of air into the first filter. The sleeve 783 may be prevented from longitudinal movement by a restraining means (not shown). The restraining means may be formed by engaging surfaces, for example, as described with respect to Figures 1 to 5.
Alternatively, the first and second filters may be integrally formed, and connected by a central core of filtration al, ntially as described with respect to Figures 10 to 12. The central core of tion ons as a restraining means, preventing separation of the first and second parts of the smoking article. Alternatively, the smoking article may not comprise a restraining means.
Figure 24 shows an exploded view of the smoking article 780. The smoking article 780 comprises a tobacco unit 781 having a first filter 782 attached to the tobacco rod. The second filter may be attached to the first filter 782, or may be attached to the sleeve 783.
As shown in Figures 22 to 24, the smoking article 780 comprises a control mechanism in the form of an ng mechanism configured to control rotation between the sleeve 783 and tobacco unit 781. The indexing mechanism comprises a first indexing section 789 on the tobacco unit which is engaged with a second indexing section 790 on the sleeve 783. The sleeve 783 is rotatable relative to the tobacco unit 781 into a plurality of pre-determined indexed rotational positions. The indexing mechanism is configured in ntially the same or similar manner, and performs the same or similar function, as the first and second indexing sections described with t to Figures 1 to 5. In particular, the first ng section 789 is a corrugated surface formed in a tubular member surrounding the s, or on the exterior surface of the first and/or second filter 782,784. The first and/or second indexing section may comprise a film overwrap. The rotational ent of the first and second parts, as controlled by the indexing sections 789,710, determines the ventilation of the smoking article 780.
Figures 25 and 26 show a ninth embodiment of smoking article 800. g article 800 is formed substantially as described in any of the embodiments above. The smoking article 800 comprises a tobacco unit 801, which may se a tobacco rod and a first filter. A first part comprising the tobacco unit 801 is moveable relative to a second part of the g article comprising a sleeve 803. The o unit 801 is adjacent, and rotatably connected to, a second . The sleeve 803 is rotatable ve to the tobacco unit 801, and the sleeve 803 is not movable longitudinally relative to the tobacco unit 801.
The tobacco unit 801 has a rearward end, which is surrounded by a forward section 803a the sleeve 803. The forward section 803a of the sleeve 803 is not directly attached to the underlying tobacco unit in use, and so can rotate relative to the tobacco unit.
The forward section 803a of the sleeve 803 is provided with one or more first ventilation apertures 806 at one or more circumferential positions. The first ation apertures are preferably located at discrete circumferential locations over only a part of the circumference, and preferably, the or each circumferential location comprises a plurality of apertures 806 in a longitudinally extending row. The forward section 803a of the sleeve 803 may be transparent, as shown, to reveal the underlying structure of the smoking article. Alternatively, the forward section 803a of the sleeve 803 may be The tobacco unit 801 is provided with one or more second ventilation apertures 807 at one or more ferential positions. The second ventilation apertures 807 may extend circumferentially over only a part of the circumference, and preferably, are formed in a forward facing surface of the g article within sleeve 803. The first and second ventilation apertures 806,807 co-operate to allow flow of air into the smoking article without being directly aligned. The first and second ventilation apertures 806,807 may be circumferentially aligned to form spaced apart openings onto a ventilation passage, which will be described in more detail below. Alternatively, the second ventilation apertures may be located directly eath the first ventilation apertures in order to allow ventilation, in a ly facing surface.
The g article 800 comprises a control mechanism in the form of an indexing mechanism configured to control rotation n the sleeve 803 and tobacco unit 801. The indexing mechanism comprises a first indexing section 809 on the o unit which is engaged with a second indexing section 810 on the sleeve 803. The sleeve 803 is rotatable relative to the tobacco unit 801 into a plurality of pre-determined indexed rotational positions. The indexed positions are narrowly spaced, providing for incremental step-wise movement.
The indexing mechanism of the present invention provides an angle of rotation which may be finely controlled and maintained. The ng mechanism provides a large number of indexed positions, at least three, ably at least seven, and more preferably 8, 10, or 12, 15, 20, 22 or more. The index mechanism provides for a substantially continuous rotation between the first part and second part.
The tobacco unit 801 comprises the first indexing section 809 at its rearward end, and surrounded by the sleeve 803. The first indexing section 809 defines a plurality of depressions, and preferably has a corrugated exterior surface. In particular, the first indexing section 809 has an outer surface which is not smooth, and preferably comprises a plurality of ridges and grooves extending longitudinally. The first filter is located within the first indexing section 809.
The indexing mechanism is configured in substantially the same or similar , and performs the same or similar function, as the first and second indexing sections bed with respect to Figures 1 to 5. In particular, the plurality of ridges and grooves define a series of e rounded s having a pointed ridge between them, as bed with respect to Figures 1 to . Alternatively, the grooves and ridges define a sinuous outer surface which smoothly oscillates in radius.
The first ng section 809 is formed on a tubular member e.g. of cellulose acetate or paper surrounding the first filter and/or o rod, or in a radially facing curved exterior surface of the first filter, as described with respect to Figures 1 to 5. The indexing grooves and ridges preferably extend around the whole circumference of the tobacco unit, or alternatively, extend around only a part of the circumference of the tobacco unit.
The sleeve 803 comprises a second indexing section 810 located on an or surface of the forward section 803a. The second indexing n 810 is preferably is one or more sions extending radially inwardly. The protrusions are preferably formed from ink or glue, ably as dot of raised ink or glue. The protrusion resiliently engages in a groove of the first indexing section, inhibiting further rotation until sufficient force is applied.
Alternatively, the second indexing section may comprise a corrugated inner surface having a plurality of ridges and grooves extending longitudinally, an embossed section, or any feature to engage with the first indexing section.
Rotation of the sleeve 803 may be accompanied with an audible sound, e.g. a click, at each pre-determined position. The indexing mechanism functions to resist rotation between the first and second parts of the smoking article, unless sufficient force is applied and the parts rotate to the next indexed position. The ng mechanism provides feedback to a user that the first and second parts have been rotated, preferably in the form of touch in the indexing movement and/or sound as each indexing position is engaged. The indexing mechanism does not limit rotation to a predefined range of rotation.
The second ventilation apertures 807 are spaced longitudinally from the first ventilation apertures, and are preferably located at or adjacent a rearward end of only some of the grooves. Preferably, second ventilation apertures 807 are located at approximately half of the s. The second ventilation apertures 807 may extend radially between a bottom of the s and a top of the grooves, substantially level with the ridges between grooves. The second ventilation apertures 807 on separately for each groove, although may be formed as one or more res extending over one or more grooves. The o unit 801 comprises an air impermeable material at a closed rearward end 811 of at least one of the grooves. The closed rearward end 811 does not allow air flow into the body of the smoking article, in particular, the second filter. The selection of air flow into a groove having either a second ventilation re 807 or a closed rearward end 811 provides for selection of ventilation.
The closed rearward end 811 is defined by a groove formed in the tubular member, or plugwrap defining the exterior surface of the first filter, which does not extend to the rearward end of the member or plugwrap and does not break or cut through the non-permeable material of the member or plugwrap.
Alternatively, the closed rd end 811 may be formed where an annular section of material extends radially inwardly to cover an end of the groove, and the second ation apertures 807 are formed where an annular section of material does not extend radially inwardly. Alternatively, the closed rearward ends 811 and second ventilation res 807 may be formed in a ring having a radial extent and located rearwardly of the grooves.
The grooves of the first indexing section 809 define ventilation es which extend longitudinally. The ridges between adjacent grooves are substantially in contact with the surrounding sleeve 803. Each of the first ventilation apertures 806 allows air into a single groove 809. Thus, air flow in each groove of the first indexing section 809 is substantially isolated from the other grooves. The air can flow longitudinally along the groove in a rearward direction. If a second ventilation aperture 807 is at a rearward end of that groove, then the air can continue to flow into the interior of the smoking article, within the sleeve 803 and into the second filter. If the groove is not aligned with a second ventilation aperture 807 then the air is prevented from flowing into the interior of the smoking article, and ventilation is inhibited.
The rotational alignment of the first and second parts, as lled by the indexing sections 0, determines the ation of the smoking article 800. Ventilation is ed when the first and second ventilation apertures 806,807 are circumferentially aligned, although the first and second ventilation apertures 806,807 are connected by a ventilation e and do not directly overlap. Preferably, the smoking article 800 comprises a plurality of first ventilation apertures 806 and a plurality of second ventilation res 807. The number of first and second ventilation apertures 806,807 aligned provides a plurality of ventilating states having different levels of ventilation, in on to a non-ventilating state when none of the first and second ventilation apertures 806,807 are d.
The grooves of the first indexing section 809 have a dual function. The grooves 809 engage with the second indexing section to provide a rotational indexing of the first and second parts of the smoking article, controlling rotation and providing feedback when the parts are rotated. The grooves 809 also function as ventilation passages, ting the first and second ventilation apertures 806,807 to allow flow of air into the smoking article.
The first and second filters are formed as a single integral filter. The first filter is partially separated from the second filter by a lateral cut. The cut extends over a ly outer part of the first and second filters. A ly inner core ts the first and second filters. The central core of filtration material maintains the attachment of the first filter to the second filter. The first part can rotate relative to the second part can whilst connected by the central filter core. The connected first and second filters are described in more detail and shown with respect to s 10 to 12. Alternatively, the first and second filters may be te filters, or a single filter which is connected only to the tobacco unit and not to the sleeve. A further restraining means, for example as described in any other embodiment, may connect the first and second parts of the smoking article.
Figure 25 shows the smoking e 800 in a non-ventilating state. Air can flow into selected grooves through the first ventilation apertures 806. The selected grooves each have a closed rearward end 811, and do not have an aligned second ventilation aperture, and so ventilating air does not enter the smoking article.
Figure 26 shows the smoking article 800 in a partially ventilating state. The first and second filters have been rotated relative to each other, with the central core twisting around a longitudinal axis. One of the sets of first apertures 806 is aligned with a groove having a second ventilation re 807, allowing air into the smoking article rearwardly of the grooves and first and second ventilation apertures 7. Further sets of first apertures 806 are aligned with s having a closed rearward end 811 instead of a second ventilation aperture 807, preventing s of air into the smoking article.
The tobacco unit 801 may have a section 818 adjacent to the sleeve 803, and having an exterior surface which is flush with an exterior surface of the sleeve 803. The sleeve 803 and section 818 may initially be integrally , preferably from a single sheet of flexible material, e.g. paper or tipping paper.
The sleeve 803 and section 818 may be separable along a separation line 815, which may form a frangible connection by perforations along line 815. Initial relative rotation between the sleeve 803 and section 818 or any part of the tobacco unit 801 breaks the tion n the sleeve 803 and section 818, ng indexed rotation between the first and second parts.
Alternatively, sleeve 803 and section 818 may be initially formed as separate ns.
The smoking article 800 is configured such that an initial ventilation state can be selected as a minimum ventilation state, a maximum ventilation state or an intermediate ventilation state between the maximum and minimum values, as described with respect to Figures 1 to 5.
Figures 27 and 28 show a tenth embodiment of smoking article 830. Smoking article 830 is formed substantially as described in any of the embodiments above. The smoking article 830 comprises a tobacco unit 831, which may comprise a tobacco rod and a filter. A first part comprising the tobacco unit 831 is moveable relative to a second part of the smoking article sing a sleeve 833. At least a part of the sleeve 833 is slidable in a longitudinal direction around the tobacco unit 831. The sleeve 833 is not movable rotationally relative to the tobacco unit 831. The sleeve 833 is a cylindrical tube which circumscribes the tobacco unit adjacent a rearward end of the tobacco unit 831.
The sleeve 833 is formed of two parts: a rearward n 833a, and a forward section 833b co-axially aligned with the rd section 833a. The two sections 833a,833b are initially connected by a ferentially extending ble, or breakable, connection 838. The forward section and rearward section may be formed as a single piece, and the frangible connection formed by perforations. Alternatively, the two parts 33b of the sleeve may abut, and not be connected initially.
One or both of the rearward section 833a and the forward n 833b are le longitudinally around the tobacco unit. Preferably, the rearward section 833a is fixed in position and the forward section 833b is slidable forwardly and rearwardly around the tobacco unit. The rearward section 833a functions as a rearward stop section, ng rearward movement of the le section 833b. The first part of the smoking article ses the fixed section 833a of the sleeve, and the second part of the smoking article comprises the or each movable section 833b of the sleeve. At least the movable forward section 833a of the sleeve 833 is formed of an air-impermeable material, preferably paper.
Figure 27 shows the smoking article in a relatively low ventilation state, in which the sleeve 833b is in a first, rearward, position. The sleeve 833b covers ventilation apertures in the tobacco unit, preventing s of air into the filter of the g article through the ventilation apertures.
Figure 28 shows the smoking article 830 in a relatively high ventilation state.
The two sections of the sleeve 833 are separated longitudinally to define a first ventilation aperture 836 between the two facing edges of the sections 833a,833b of the sleeve.
The tobacco unit 831 comprises one or more second ventilation apertures 837 adjacent to a rd end. Preferably, the tobacco unit 831 comprises a plurality of second ventilation apertures 837 in a line extending circumferentially. Preferably, the plurality of second ventilation apertures 837 are in an air impermeable paper wrap forming an exterior surface of the tobacco unit, in particular, the filter.
The rearward section 833a and forward section 833b are separable to uncover the one or more second ventilation apertures 837. The second ventilation apertures 837 allow ingress of air into the tobacco unit 831 when uncovered, i.e. aligned with the first ventilation aperture 836 when the forward section of sleeve 833 is moved forwardly. The ventilation apertures 837 are formed on a first guide n 840 over which the sleeve 833b can be moved udinally.
The d section and rearward section 833a, 833b of the sleeve have profiled edges facing each other which are interlocking. The interlocking of the ed edges requires one or more particular rotational positions of the forward section relative to the rearward section. Preferably, the profiled edges are complementary, and extend substantially circumferentially with a continuously undulating, or sinuous, e in the longitudinal direction. The profiled edges of the d n and rearward n are aligned and have the same circumferential profile, such that a longitudinal distance between the facing edges is nt around the circumference of the sleeve 833. The profiled edges define first and second engaging surfaces of a restraining means configured to limit rearward longitudinal movement of the d section 833b.
The smoking article 830 comprises a control mechanism in the form of a guide mechanism configured to l rotation n a movable section of the sleeve 833 and tobacco unit 831. In particular, the guide mechanism prevents any rotation between the slidable section of the sleeve 833b and tobacco unit 831. The guide mechanism comprises a first guide section 840 on an exterior surface of the tobacco unit which is engaged with a second guide section on an interior surface of the slidable section of the sleeve 833, i.e. forward section 833b. The forward n 833b of the sleeve is configured to be fixed rotationally relative to the tobacco unit 831. The tobacco unit 831 comprises the first guide section 840 adjacent its rearward end, forwardly of the sleeve section 833a and surrounded by the sleeve 833b.
The first guide section 840 preferably comprises a plurality of longitudinally extending grooves or ridges underneath the forward section of the sleeve. The ridges are preferably formed by the application of lines of raised ink or glue extending longitudinally, and spaced apart to define s between the lines.
The second guide section preferably comprises one or more protrusions on an interior surface of the slidable section of the sleeve 833. The one or more protrusions may be formed by one or more dots or ink or glue. Alternatively, the protrusions may be formed by embossing. The one or more protrusions are configured to engage with the raised lines, such that the protrusions cannot rotate over the raised lines and hence on is prevented.
Alternatively, the guide mechanism has a similar form to the indexing mechanism described with respect to Figures 1 to 5, with the guide mechanism configured to t rotation as described with respect to Figures 20 and 21.
The first guide section 840 preferably has a corrugated exterior e. In particular, the first guide section 840 has an outer surface which is not , and preferably comprises a plurality of ridges and grooves extending longitudinally. The filter and/or tobacco rod is located within the first guide section 840. In particular, the ity of ridges and grooves define a sinuous outer e, which smoothly oscillates in radius. The s and ridges may be formed on a tubular member, e.g. of cellulose acetate or paper, around the filter and/or o rod.
The first guide section is formed in a radially facing curved exterior surface of the tobacco unit, and preferably, the filter. The guide grooves and ridges preferably extend around the whole circumference of the tobacco unit, or alternatively, extend around only a part of the circumference of the tobacco unit.
Alternatively, the first guide section 840 may be formed on an exterior surface of the filter. The first guide section comprises tion material, preferably formed in a cylinder extending longitudinally. The filtration material is any known tion material, and in particular, is formed of cellulose acetate tow.
The filtration material is wrapped in one or more sheets of flexible material.
Preferably, the flexible material is paper, and may be known as plugwrap. The paper extends around the curved sides of the cylinder of filtration material.
The paper forms a continuous outer surface defining the grooves and ridges of the first index section. The paper is ed to form the grooves and ridges prior to being wrapped around the filtration material, and d such that the shape of the grooves and ridges are permanently ined in the paper. The s and ridges are preferably formed by rollers, and the paper is not cut to define the grooves. The paper wrapping the filtration material is optionally overwrapped by a film, as described above.
The second guide section (not shown) is located on the interior of the slidable section of the sleeve 833. The second guide section has an inner surface which is not smooth, and preferably comprises a plurality of ridges and grooves extending udinally. In particular, the second guide section is preferably defined by lines of raised ink or glue, similarly to the first guide section.
Alternatively, the second guide section may be a corrugated inner surface In particular, the ity of ridges and grooves define a sinuous outer surface, which smoothly oscillates in radius.
The second guide section may be formed by a sheet of flexible material, e.g. cellulose acetate or paper, which is corrugated and affixed to an inner e of the sleeve 833. Preferably, the second guide section has substantially the same, or similar, configuration and shape to the first guide section 840. The second guide section defines a plurality of ridges, between the grooves, which are engagable with the first guide section. Alternatively, the first and second guide sections 840 may engage with different configurations. In particular, the second guide section may comprise one or more discrete protrusion extending radially inwardly from the interior of the forward section of sleeve 833b. The sion is configured to engage in the grooves of the first guide section 840 to control rotation. The protrusion may be formed by a dot of raised ink or glue, by embossing, or by any other suitable means to engage with the first guide section.
The guide mechanism has grooves, ridges, sions or other features which are dimensioned or made of materials such that rotation between the first and second parts of the smoking e is inhibited. In particular, the guide mechanism is configured such that the es are not resiliently deformable to allow indexed on with application of a reasonable force, as is the indexing mechanism of other embodiments. The guide mechanism is ured such that the sleeve can slide freely around the tobacco unit to vary ventilation, without rotation.
The longitudinally extending grooves or ridges form corrugations which prevent rotation of the slidable forward section of the sleeve. The means for preventing rotation is preferably present in conjunction with the embodiment described above in which a sections of the sleeve have facing edges with an interlocking profile which requires a particular rotational position. Since the d section 833b cannot rotate, the forward section is always in the correct rotational position to interlock with the rearward section when urged rearwardly. The means for preventing rotation ensures that the e section of sleeve returns to its original position, in which the undulating profiled edges are complementary.
Preferably, the rearward n 833a of the outer sleeve is permanently fixed to the tobacco unit, and limits rearward nt of the forward section 833b. The d section 833b is slidable forwardly to uncover the ventilation apertures 837. The d movement of the forward section 833b is limited by a forward stop section 839 fixed to an exterior e of the tobacco unit. The rearward section 833a and stop section 839 define a restraining means arranged such that the sleeve 833b can move between a first position covering the ventilation res 837, and a second position in which the ventilation apertures 837 are not covered.
The forward stop section 839 is preferably one or more layers of flexible material, preferably paper, surrounding the first filter and/or tobacco rod. The stop section 839 has an exterior surface which is preferably flush with an exterior surface of the forward section 833b of the sleeve, and the rearward section 833a of the sleeve. Alternatively, the forward n 833b of the outer sleeve is permanently fixed in position, and the rearward section 833a is slidable rearwardly to uncover the ventilation apertures 837. The stop section 839 may be located rearwardly of the rearward section 833a to limit nt of the rearward section 833a. Alternatively, both the forward section 833b and rearward section 833a are slidable longitudinally. A forward stop section may be located forwardly of the forward section 833b to limit forward movement of the forward section 833b, and a rearward stop section may be located rearwardly of the rearward n 833a to limit rearward movement of the rearward section 833a.
The profiled edges of the forward and rearward sections of the sleeve are described as interlocking and s. Alternatively, the profiled edges may have any interlocking or complementary shape, for example, triangular or semi-circular features. The profiled edges may be interlocking for only a part of the circumference. Alternatively, the profiled edges may not be interlocking, and for e, may define one or two straight ferential edges. atively or in addition, the facing edges of the forward section 833b and the stop section 839 may have profiled edges which are interlocking and/or complementary, as described above.
The filter may comprise a first filter and a second filter which are rigidly and co-axially ed to the rear of the tobacco rod. Alternatively, the smoking e 830 may comprise only a single filter, which may be a double-length filter.
The smoking article 830 is configured such that an initial ventilation state can be selected as a minimum ventilation state, a m ventilation state or an intermediate ventilation state between the maximum and minimum values, as described with respect to s 1 to 5.
Figures 29a and 29b show a cross-section of a first control surface and a second control e as described in any of the embodiments above. The first control surface and a second control surface may be configured as an indexing surface or as a guide surface. The cross-sections are not shown to scale.
Figure 29a shows an example of the first control surface 850, which is formed on an exterior e of the tobacco unit. The first control surface may be formed on a tubular member formed of cellulose acetate or paper, or may be formed on the exterior of a filter, as described above. The first control surface 850 comprises a plurality of longitudinally extending grooves 854 separated by udinally extending ridges 852. The plurality of ridges 852 and grooves 854 may define a sinuous outer surface, which ly oscillates in radius.
The ridge between adjacent depressions may have a curved profile with a substantially uniform radius of curvature. The ridge n adjacent depressions defines a single circumferential point of m resistance to movement of the engaging feature between the adjacent depressions. The first control surface 850 may form the first control surface of any of the embodiments described.
Figure 29b shows an example of the second control surface 860, which is formed on an interior surface of the sleeve. The second control surface may be formed on a tubular member formed of cellulose acetate or paper, as described above. The second control surface 860 comprises a plurality of longitudinally extending grooves 864 separated by longitudinally extending ridges 862. The plurality of ridges 862 and grooves 864 may define a s outer e, which smoothly oscillates in radius. The ridge between adjacent depressions may have a curved profile with a substantially uniform radius of curvature. The ridge between adjacent sions defines a single ferential point of maximum resistance to movement of the engaging feature between the adjacent depressions. The second control surface 860 may form the second l surface of any of the embodiments described.
One or more of the embodiments above describe ventilation apertures formed in a sleeve and/or in the tobacco unit. The ventilation apertures are formed such that air can flow into the sleeve or tobacco unit. In particular, the tobacco unit may se one or more layers of paper wrap surrounding a filter or chamber. The one or more layers of paper wrap may comprise a ap and/or other material surrounding a filter comprising filtration al, and/or tipping paper joining a filter to a tobacco rod. The ventilation aperture s through the one or more layers of paper wrap and any other material, such that the air can flow to the air permeable filtration material or chamber.
The material in which the ventilation apertures are formed is substantially impermeable to air flow, or has a predetermined permeability to provide a base level of ventilation.
The ventilation re(s) of any embodiment may be in the form of a cut aperture, air permeable material or an aperture covered with an air permeable material. References to a ventilation aperture are ed to mean an area which is air permeable. An air permeable area, r formed, is termed a ventilation area.
The smoking article of any embodiment may comprise an adsorbent additive.
In particular, the adsorbent additive is located in a filter. In some embodiments, the filter may be a substrate, in particular a first filter section, connected with another substrate, in particular, a second filter section, by a central core. Preferably, the central core is of filtration material, and is integrally formed with the filtration material of the first and second filter ns. An example of such filter sections which are rotatable relative to each other is described with respect to Figures 10 to 12. The adsorbent additive may be located in both filter ns, or only in an upstream (forward) filter n, or only in a downstream (rearward) filter section. Alternatively, the adsorbent additive may be d in one or more separate filters. The filter section comprising adsorbent additive may be the only filter section in the smoking article, or may one or more of a plurality of filter sections.
The adsorbent additive is ably carbon, for example, charcoal and in particular, activated carbon. Alternatively, the adsorbent ve may be a resin. The resin may be an ion exchange resin with a polyamine group as chelating ligand bonded onto a cross-linked polystyrene matrix, for example, Diaion (RTM) CR20.. The adsorbent additive is preferably located only in a forward filter, such that smoke subsequently passes through a second rearward filter which does not contain an adsorbent additive.
The smoking article of any embodiment may comprise a pod, preferably located wholly in a forward filter. The pod is located centrally within the forward filter, and nded by filtration material. The pod extends substantially the same length as the first filter. The pod comprises permeable walls ning an adsorbent additive, preferably charcoal. The walls t the additive from moving through the smoking article, whilst allowing smoke into contact with the adsorbent additive. The pod has the advantage that the adsorbent additive can be located within a relatively short longitudinal length.
Alternatively, the adsorbent additive may be located in a cavity (not shown).
The cavity may be between first and second filters. The adsorbent additive may be granules of carbon, preferably in the form of charcoal, or any suitable ent additive.
Alternatively, the adsorbent additive may be distributed within the filtration material of a first . The adsorbent additive may be substantially uniformly distributed in the filtration material, preferably cellulose acetate tow. The adsorbent additive may be es of carbon, or any suitable adsorbent additive.
Alternatively, the adsorbent additive may be located around a ery of a first filter section. The adsorbent additive may be affixed to an inner surface of a wrapper of sheet material surrounding the tion material. The adsorbent additive is preferably adhered to the inner surface with an adhesive. The wrapper is preferably a porous paper, e.g. plugwrap.
In some embodiments, the smoking article ses a first filter section and a second filter section ed ream of the first filter section, wherein the adsorbent additive is located in or around the first filter section, and is not present in the second filter n. The first filter section may be in two parts, connected by a central core, as described above, optionally with a separate second filter section downstream. In other embodiments, the first filter n may be a single body of filtration material, optionally with a separate second filter section located downstream. The adsorbent additive may be located in or around the first filter section, and is not present in the second filter section.
The embodiments of g articles are described as not having a chamber, or free internal space, between the first part and second part. Alternatively, any of the embodiments may have a chamber of fixed longitudinal length between the first part and second, and in ular between filters of the first and second parts. The ventilation may varied by rotation between the first and second parts, and restraining means prevents relative longitudinal movement which changes the length of the chamber. Alternatively, ventilation may be varied by longitudinal movement of an outer sleeve around the tobacco unit. In this case, any chamber is within the tobacco unit, and the length is not affected by movement of the outer sleeve. Alternatively, the smoking article may be extendable, having a variable length chamber d by the first and second parts. The control mechanism described in any embodiment may be modified to control longitudinal nt, preferably providing indexing between a plurality of longitudinal positions. In particular, the grooves and ridges described may extend circumferentially instead of longitudinally.
The ventilation apertures in the sleeve and/or tobacco unit may be formed by a laser. In particular, the laser may simultaneously generate aligned ventilation apertures in the sleeve and tobacco unit. Alternatively, the ventilation res may be formed as a slit by a mechanical cutting tool. Alternatively, the ventilation apertures may be formed as a cut-out area. atively, the ventilation apertures may be formed by an air permeable al, which is either manufactured as a permeable material or made permeable by the addition of res or by sing. Alternatively, the smoking article may not have one or more ventilation areas which are ively controllable by the relative on of the first and second parts. The relative position of the first and second parts may control a flavourant, a smoke modifying additive, a filtration property, or any other attribute of the smoking e.
Any feature of the control mechanism as described with respect to Figures 1 to may be applicable to any other ment. The depressions forming part of the control mechanism have been described as grooves. Alternatively, the depression may have any shape to engage with a feature in the other of the first or second part. In ular, the depressions may be square or circular.
The ridge n adjacent depressions defines a single circumferential point of maximum resistance to movement of the engaging feature between the adjacent depressions. Alternatively, the ridge may be a land having a substantially constant radius over the circumferential distance between adjacent depressions. The depressions in the first or second part may be ured to engage with any shape of protrusion in the other of the first or second part.
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 e may or may not have a filter section adjoining the cylinder of tobacco, and/or may not have a filter section at the mouthpiece end of the sleeve. In particular, the sleeve may not have a filter attached to it, and may define a recess at the mouthpiece end or may have an edge at the mouthpiece end which is aligned with a rear end of the first filter. The ining means or limiting means of any embodiment may be used with any other embodiment, to prevent or control longitudinal and/or rotational movement of the first part relative to the second part, or any part moveable over another part. The ventilation in a particular longitudinal or rotational position may be as described, or may be applicable to a different position, for example, by varying the location of one or more ation apertures.
A reference to a filter may alternatively refer to two adjacent and co-axial filters. One or more of the filters may be formed of a single t of filter material or a plurality of segments. A filter formed of a plurality of segments may comprise ts made of different materials or having different filtration properties. In particular, a filter may comprise a standard segment of cellulose acetate tow and a further segment of tion material including al. Alternatively, the filter may be a single segment incorporating charcoal.

Claims (57)

Claims
1. A smoking article, comprising: a first part, a second part movable relative to the first part, and 5 further comprising a control mechanism comprising a first control surface on one of the first part or second part; and a second control surface on the other of the first and second parts, wherein the second control e is configured to engage with the first control e to control relative movement between the first part and second part, 10 wherein the first control surface comprises a ridge between adjacent depressions which defines a single circumferential point of maximum resistance to movement of the second control surface between the adjacent depressions. 15
2. The smoking article as claimed in claim 1 wherein the first control surface and/or second control surface comprises a continuous e defining a plurality of circumferentially spaced depressions.
3. The smoking article as d in claim 1 or 2 wherein the first control 20 surface and/or second l surface comprises depressions in the form of elongate grooves which extend substantially longitudinally, and nt s are separated by a ridge.
4. The g article as claimed in any one of the preceding claims 25 wherein the first control surface is formed on a tubular member affixed around a section of the first part, and preferably overlying a filter , and/or the second control surface is formed on a tubular member affixed to an or surface of the second part. 30
5. The smoking article as claimed in claim 4 n the one or each tubular member is formed from a sheet material which is shaped to define the first control surface and/or second control surface, and preferably, the sheet material is a strip of cellulose acetate.
6. The smoking article as d in claim 5 wherein the first control surface and/or second control surface are formed by deforming a blank of the sheet al prior to forming the sheet material into a tube, and preferably, 5 the sheet material is deformed by one or more rollers to form the first control surface and/or second control surface.
7. The smoking article as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the first part comprises a source of smokable material, and/or the 10 second part comprises a sleeve arranged around the first part.
8. The smoking article as claimed in any one of the preceding claims n the first part is rotatable relative to the second part, and the control mechanism is an indexing mechanism configured to control relative rotation 15 between the first part and second part to select one of a plurality of indexing positions.
9. The smoking article as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 7 n the control mechanism is a guide mechanism configured to allow longitudinal 20 nt of the second part relative to the first part, and prevent ve rotation between the first part and the second part.
10. The smoking article as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the first control surface is an exterior surface of a filter.
11. The smoking article as claimed in claim 10 wherein the filter comprises filtration material wrapped with one or more sheets of material, wherein the one or more sheets is shaped to define or support the first control surface. 30
12. The smoking e as claimed in any one of the ing claims wherein the first l surface and/or second control surface has an exterior coated in a film wrap formed of a plastics material, and preferably, a polymer material.
13. The smoking article as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the first control surface and/or second control e defines a s profile. 5
14. The g e as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein one of the first control surface or second l surface comprises one or more protrusions, preferably formed by an ink dot or a glue dot.
15. The smoking article as claimed in any one of the preceding claims 10 wherein the first part and/or second part comprise at least one ventilation area, wherein the relative position of the first part to the second part is configured to selectively control ventilation through the at least one ation area.
16. The smoking article as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the first part comprises a first substrate and the second part ses a second substrate, wherein the first and second substrates are joined by a connection allowing relative rotation of the first and second substrates, 20 wherein the relative rotational position of the first and second parts selects a ventilation of the smoking article.
17. The smoking article as d in claim 16 wherein the first and second substrates are integrally formed sections of a single filter, and the connection 25 is formed by a central core of the single filter which is integrally formed with the first and second substrates.
18. The smoking article as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the smoking article comprises a restraining means configured to limit 30 relative longitudinal movement between the first and second parts.
19. The smoking article as claimed in claim 18 n the restraining means comprises a first ng surface on the first part engagable with a second engaging surface on the second part, wherein the first engaging surface is formed on a section of increased the second engaging surface is formed within an exterior surface of the 5 second part; and/or, the restraining means comprises an end of the second part engagable with a third engaging surface formed on the first part. 10
20. The smoking article as claimed in claim 19 wherein the first engaging surface and/or third engaging e is formed by one or more sheets of material ing around the first part; and/or, the first and/or second and/or third engaging surface is formed on a 15 folded portion of a sheet of material forming the first or second part.
21. The smoking article as claimed in claim 19 or 20 wherein the first control surface is formed on the sheet of material defining the first and/or third engaging surface, and/or the second control surface is formed on the 20 sheet of material defining the second engaging surface.
22. The smoking e as claimed in claim 18 wherein the restraining means ses one or more protrusion, and preferably, wherein the one or more protrusion is formed from raised ink.
23. The smoking article as claimed in claim 19 or 20 wherein the first engaging surface and the second ng surface define profiled edges which are configured to interlock. 30
24. The smoking article as claimed in any one of claims 19, 20 or 21 n the first engaging surface and the second engaging surface or third engaging surface are frangibly connected.
25. The smoking e as d in claim 9 n the first control surface and/or second control surface comprise one or more raised lines extending substantially udinally, and preferably, the raised lines are formed of ink or glue.
26. The smoking article as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein at least one first ventilation area is formed in the first part and at least one second ventilation area is formed in the second part, a said first ventilation area in the first part being uncovered when aligned with a said second 10 ventilation area in the second part.
27. The smoking article as d in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the smoking article is configured such that at least one first ventilation area in the first part is red when aligned beyond an end of the second 15 part.
28. The smoking article as claimed in claim 15, 26 or 27 wherein the first part comprises a tubular member fixed to the source of smokable material, wherein at least one first ventilation area of the first part is formed in the 20 tubular member.
29. The smoking article as claimed in any one of claims 15 or 26 to 28 wherein at least one first ventilation area is configured to allow ingress of air into a filter.
30. The smoking article as claimed in any one of claims 15 or 26 to 29 wherein at least one first ventilation area is formed in the first control surface, and/or the at least one second ventilation area is formed in the second control surface.
31. The smoking article as claimed in claim 15 or 26 to 30 wherein the at least one first ventilation area is a circumferentially extending slit, and the at least one second ventilation area is a circumferentially extending slit.
32. The smoking article as claimed in 26 n the at least one second ation area is a cut-out extending to an edge of the second part.
33. The smoking article as claimed in 26 wherein the one or more second 5 ventilation areas of the second part overlie the first l surface, wherein the one or more first ventilation areas are located at a longitudinal end of one or more grooves of the first control surface, such that air can flow along one or more s having a first ation area and aligned with a second ventilation area to provide ventilation.
34. The smoking article as claimed in 33 wherein the one or more first ventilation areas face a longitudinally forward ion, and preferably, extends radially over a depth of the groove. 15
35. The smoking article as claimed in 33 or 34 wherein the one or more second ventilation areas are formed as a plurality of perforations in sheet material overlying the grooves, and preferably, the sheet material is transparent. 20
36. The smoking article as d in claim 15 further comprising an indicator means, for indicating a ventilation state of the smoking article.
37. The smoking article as claimed in claim 36 wherein the first part comprises a marking for indicating the ation of the g article when 25 compared to a marking or a ventilation area on the first part.
38. The smoking e as claimed in claim 15 wherein an initial ventilation state can be selected as a minimum ventilation state, a maximum ventilation state or an intermediate ventilation state between the maximum and minimum 30 values.
39. The smoking article as claimed in any one of the preceding claims including a filter comprising an adsorbent additive.
40. The smoking article as claimed in claim 39 wherein the adsorbent additive is activated carbon.
41. The smoking article as claimed in claim 39 or 40 wherein the adsorbent 5 additive is in a pod nded by filtration material, or, distributed within filtration material, or, in a cavity at least partially defined by filtration al, or, on or adjacent an inner surface of a wrapper of sheet material surrounding filtration material. 10
42. The smoking article as claimed in claim 39, 40 or 41 wherein the first part comprises a first ate and the second part comprises a second substrate, wherein the first and second ates are joined by a tion allowing relative on of the first and second substrates, wherein the first and second substrates are integrally formed sections of a single filter, and the 15 connection is formed by a central core of the single filter which is integrally formed with the first and second substrates, wherein the adsorbent additive is located in the first and/or second substrate. 20
43. The smoking article as claimed in any one of claims 39 to 44 wherein the smoking article comprises a first filter section and a second filter section ed downstream of the first filter section, wherein the adsorbent additive is located in or around the first filter section, and is not present in the second filter section.
44. A method of manufacturing a smoking article, comprising: ing a first part, providing a second part, and attaching the second part to the first part such that the second part is movable relative to the first part, and 30 the first and second parts further comprising a control mechanism comprising a first l surface on one of the first part or second part; and a second control surface on the other of the first and second parts, wherein the second l surface is configured to engage with the first control surface to control relative movement between the first part and second part, wherein the first control surface ses a ridge between adjacent depressions which defines a single circumferential point of m resistance to movement of the second control surface between the adjacent depressions.
45. The method as claimed in claim 44 wherein the first control e and/or second control surface comprises a continuous surface defining a plurality of circumferentially spaced depressions. 10
46. The method as claimed in claim 44 or 45 wherein the first control surface and/or second control e comprises depressions in the form of elongate grooves which extend substantially longitudinally, each separated by a ridge. 15
47. The method as claimed in any one claims 44 to 46 comprising forming a tubular member having the first control surface, and affixing the tubular member around a section of the first part, and preferably overlying a filter, and/or forming a tubular member having the second l e, and affixing the 20 tubular member to an interior surface of the second part.
48. The method as claimed in claim 47 comprising forming one or each tubular member from a sheet material which is shaped to define the first control surface and/or second control surface, and preferably, the sheet 25 material is cellulose acetate.
49. The method as claimed in claim 48 comprising ing a blank of the sheet material prior to forming the sheet material into a tube, and ably, the sheet material is deformed by one or more rollers to form the first control 30 e and/or second control surface.
50. The method as claimed in any one of claims 44 to 49 comprising forming a filter having an exterior surface with the first control surface, wherein forming the filter comprises wrapping filtration material with one or more sheets of material, wherein the one or more sheets of material are shaped with depressions to define or support the first control surface.
51. The method as claimed in any one of claims 44 to 50 comprising 5 applying an ink dot or a glue dot to form the first or second l e.
52. The method as claimed in any one of claims 44 to 51 comprising forming a restraining means configured to limit relative longitudinal movement between the first and second parts.
53. The method as d in claim 52 wherein the restraining means ses a first engaging surface on the first part engagable with a second engaging surface on the second part, and forming a n of increased diameter to form the first engaging 15 surface; and/or, forming the second engaging surface within an exterior surface of the second part; and/or, 20 forming a third engaging surface on the first part engagable with an end of the second part.
54. The method as claimed in claim 53 comprising forming the first engaging surface and/or third engaging surface by wrapping one or more 25 sheets of material around the first part; and/or, forming the first and/or second and/or third engaging surface by g a portion of a sheet of material g the first or second part. 30
55. The method as claimed in any one of claims 44 to 54 wherein the first part and/or second part comprise at least one ventilation area, wherein the relative position of the first part to the second part is configured to selectively control ventilation through the at least one ventilation area.
56. The method as claimed in any one of claims 44 to 55 comprising forming ventilation res in the first or second parts simultaneously such that an initial ventilation state is a maximum ventilation state; or, g ventilation 5 res in the first or second parts separately, and prior to combining the first and second parts, such that an initial ventilation state is a minimum ventilation state, or an intermediate ventilation state between the maximum and minimum values. 10
57. A smoking article as hereinbefore described and shown with reference to any one of the accompanying drawings.
NZ614476A 2011-03-14 2012-03-09 Smoking article and method of manufacturing a smoking article NZ614476B2 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (5)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
GB1104232.2 2011-03-14
GBGB1104232.2A GB201104232D0 (en) 2011-03-14 2011-03-14 Smoking article and method of manufacturing a smoking article
GB1114581.0 2011-08-23
GBGB1114581.0A GB201114581D0 (en) 2011-03-14 2011-08-23 Smoking article and method of manufacturing a smoking article
PCT/GB2012/050531 WO2012123723A1 (en) 2011-03-14 2012-03-09 Smoking article and method of manufacturing a smoking article

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
NZ614476A NZ614476A (en) 2015-05-29
NZ614476B2 true NZ614476B2 (en) 2015-09-01

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