CN111031816A

CN111031816A - Multi-compartment cigarette package

Info

Publication number: CN111031816A
Application number: CN201880042532.8A
Authority: CN
Inventors: 毛伊·卡哈瓦伊拉; 波莱特·苏恩
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2017-06-30
Filing date: 2018-05-31
Publication date: 2020-04-17
Also published as: US20190002187A1; WO2019005410A1

Abstract

An improved cigarette package is provided. The cigarette pack first comprises a container as a housing for two or more compartments, each holding a plurality of cigarettes. The package also includes a lid hinged to the container at an upper end. Opening and closing the lid provides selective access and closure to the container. The inner compartments each comprise a compartment tab that allows opening and resealing of the respective compartment. Thus, a dual compartment cigarette package is provided wherein the compartments can be independently opened and resealed. This configuration allows for selective opening of individual compartments while leaving the factory seal on the unopened compartment, thereby preserving the freshness and aroma oil of the cigarettes within the package even after the package and compartments are opened.

Description

Multi-compartment cigarette package

Statement regarding federally sponsored research or development

Not applicable.

Contracting party name for co-research agreement

Not applicable.

Statement of related application

Not applicable.

Background

This section is intended to introduce various aspects of the art, which may be associated with exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. This discussion is believed to be helpful in providing a framework to facilitate a better understanding of particular aspects of the present disclosure. It should be understood, therefore, that this section should be read in this light, and not necessarily as admissions of prior art.

Technical Field

The present invention relates generally to the field of cigarette packs, and in particular to those of the hinge-lid type. More particularly, the present invention relates to a cigarette pack having an improved structure for preserving the freshness of the contents therein. The invention also relates to a dual compartment cigarette pack wherein each compartment is independently resealable.

General theory of the technology

Cigarette packs are sold in different embodiments. The traditional structure of cigarette packs comprises a small box, which can be called a soft box or a hard box. The box forms the outer shell of a plurality of cigarettes (e.g., 20 cigarettes) and may be made of cellulosic or synthetic material (e.g., plastic).

The cigarette has long shelf life. A pack of cigarettes is typically guaranteed to be one year since the date of manufacture. After this year, the cigarette will become stale and lose flavor. This is because individual cigarettes become dry and brittle due to evaporation of the essential oil.

Cigarettes can be vacuum sealed in frozen storage to extend freshness, but this is quite uncommon. Some stores and individuals use humidity controlled cigar boxes to maintain the humidity and freshness of the tobacco. This is common for cigars, but is not generally used for finished cigarettes. Moreover, cigar boxes do not assist in tobacco packaging during transport.

Many cigarettes are not consumed until after long periods of storage, transport and retail display. In some cases, particularly those involving transnational or international transport, a pack of cigarettes may fail to be consumed for weeks or even months after manufacture and packaging. To help maintain freshness, the cigarette pack is typically wrapped with an outer layer made of plastic film. Such an outer wrap keeps air and moisture out of the interior of the cigarette pack, at least until the cigarette pack is opened.

Cigarette packs often also include an inner liner. The liner may be made of tin or other metallic material. Thus, a multi-layer structure is provided to help maintain the freshness of the tobacco products therein. Unfortunately, once the pack is opened, the seal provided by the outer wrap is lost and the cluster of cigarettes is exposed to the external environment. This accelerates drying of the cigarette and loss of aroma oil.

A number of patents have been issued in the field of cigarette packaging. One example is U.S. patent No.5,467,872, published in 1995. This patent is entitled "Rigid Hinged lid for Tobacco articles, Particularly Cigarettes" (Rigid Hinged-LidPacket for Tobacco Products, particulate Cigarettes) ". The' 872 patent discloses a cigarette package having two hinged lids, one at opposite ends of the other, such that the package resembles two standard cigarette packages that are coplanar with one another but are joined together by a bottom edge. The user opens a hinged lid to consume the cigarettes in a container; the user then turns the pack over and opens the second hinged lid to consume the remaining cigarettes in the second container.

In the cigarette pack design of the' 872 patent, the individual packets may be integral with one another or may include two separate containers that are connected together at respective bottom ends of each container. However, the' 872 patent is neither concerned with increasing the shelf life of the tobacco contents nor discloses a mechanism for resealing after one of the containers has been opened.

U.S. patent No.5,201,413 entitled "dual cigarette cartons having Separable or Separable labels including universal product codes" (dual cigarette Carton With Separable or visible Label Containing universal product Code) "provides a similar concept. In the' 413 patent, the double cigarette carton is formed from two substantially identical single cigarette cartons. This is essentially two separate cartons that are connected together for tax labels and price coding, where the cartons can be easily separated after sale.

Another example of a package can be found in U.S. patent No.6,223,895 entitled "Two-Pack Kit for packing Make-up Cigarettes" for Two-Pack packs of Cigarettes. The' 895 patent provides a container having two packs to allow for the assembly of its own cigarettes. The first pack includes tobacco elements and the second pack includes non-tobacco elements for forming individual cigarettes. It can be seen that the' 895 patent presents a clever idea, but it is neither directed to resealable cigarette packs, nor is it concerned with providing existing cigarettes with multiple independently resealable compartments to extend shelf life.

Another patent in the art is U.S. patent No.4,664,310 entitled "blank for parallelepiped Box or Box element (blank for paralleliped Boxes or Box Elements)". The' 310 patent provides a "blank" for forming a carton for holding cigarettes. The box is constructed with a moving strip in such a way that parallel tear lines extend through three connected wall portions of the blank. The' 310 patent is not directed to increasing the shelf life of the tobacco contents.

There are also other cigarette packages that combine groups of cigarettes to form bundles. One example is U.S. patent No.4,928,817 entitled "Packaging For Packs, particularly Cigarette Packs (packing For a compliance of Small Packs, especial Cigarette Packs)". However, the inventors are unaware of any package that provides an interior compartment that can be independently resealed once opened.

There is a need for an improved multi-compartment cigarette package that extends the shelf life of cigarettes or other tobacco products. There is also a need for a cigarette package that allows for selective opening and resealing of only a portion of the cigarettes. Such a package will not only maintain the freshness of some of the cigarettes in the unopened portion of the package, but will also prevent the cigarettes in the opened position from drying out after the factory seal has been broken.

Disclosure of Invention

An improved cigarette package is provided. In one embodiment, the cigarette pack first comprises an outer container. The outer container acts as a housing and is configured to closely receive a plurality of cigarettes. The outer container is mainly made of a hard cellulose material (called "hard" packaging) or mainly of a flexible synthetic material (called "soft" packaging). In either case, the container preferably has a rectangular cross-section.

The outer container includes a lid pivotally connected to the container proximate the upper end. The lid provides selective access to the cigarettes and is movable between an open position and a closed position. A single lid is provided for multiple compartments.

The package also includes a first liner and a second liner. The first liner forms a first compartment and the second liner forms a second compartment. The first compartment and the second compartment are within the same outer container.

The first compartment and the second compartment each have an exterior surface with a top surface, a bottom surface, a front surface, a back surface, an upper portion, and a lower portion. The first and second compartments also include first and second compartment tabs, respectively. Embodiments including more than two compartments and associated compartment tabs are also contemplated in the present disclosure.

The package also includes a substrate. The substrate is connected to the first compartment and the second compartment. The substrate has a proximal end, a distal end, and a lateral boundary. The substrate preferably has an adhesive material in the form of a coating along the bottom surface. The adhesive material allows the substrate to be attached to the compartment.

The base panel preferably includes a first base panel tab and a second base panel tab, wherein the tabs are integral with the base panel. The first and second compartment tabs may be disposed above and connected to the first and second compartment tabs, respectively. Because each base tab is connected to a respective compartment tab, opening of the base tabs results in simultaneous opening of the respective compartment tabs to which it is connected. It should be noted that more than two base tabs may be provided, corresponding to the number of compartments.

The first and second compartment tabs may each be laterally bounded by opposing side edges and distally bounded by end edges. Each base tab may be configured to extend beyond the side and end margins of the respective compartment tab to form a perimeter of adhesive material exposed about the bottom surface of each base tab. When the base and compartment tabs are moved together to the closed position, the perimeter of the adhesive material lands on the exterior surface of the respective compartment to form a temporary seal.

In one embodiment, each base tab and corresponding compartment tab extends from a portion of the back side of the compartment. In the closed position, the base tab and corresponding compartment tab continue along the top side of the compartment to a portion of the front side of the compartment. Each base tab may further comprise a tab extending beyond the distal end of the base. The tab is configured to allow easier grasping and pulling of each associated base tab.

The compartment, compartment tab, base tab or combinations thereof are preferably made of a moisture resistant fragrance oil barrier material. Examples of such materials include metallic materials such as tin, aluminum, or nickel, or plastic materials. Wax-coated cellulosic materials may also be employed.

The cigarette package also includes a sleeve. The sleeve is configured to surround the first and second compartments to securely hold the compartments together within the outer container. The sleeve may also be used to secure the first and second compartments inside the container, for example by means of an adhesive which prevents the compartments from sliding out of the container, particularly when the compartments are opened.

The sleeve is preferably made of a thin cardboard material. The sleeve includes a front surface that is a recessed portion of the container. The recess forms a shoulder on which the lid rests when pivoted to its closed position.

The cigarette pack may be provided with a water-resistant foil outer layer around the outer container. The purchaser removes the foil or at least tears it open before opening the lid.

A replacement cigarette package is also provided herein. In this embodiment, the cigarette package also includes an outer container configured to hold a plurality of cigarettes. The outer container includes an outer surface and a recess along the outer surface. The recess may be set back from the outer container surface and is provided with a top edge having a profile.

The package may further include a lid pivotally connected to the outer container at an upper back end of the outer container. In practice, the lid is movable between an open position and a closed position. The distal end of the cap has a profile that matches the profile of the recess.

At least two moisture-tight compartments are provided within the container. Each compartment provides a front surface that extends over the recessed portion. This serves to expose a peripheral edge portion of the outer surface of each compartment.

Each compartment also includes a compartment tab. Each compartment tab is integral with its associated compartment. Each compartment tab has a distal end and a lateral boundary.

A substrate is attached to and disposed along the top surface of each compartment. The bottom surface of the substrate is coated with an adhesive material that secures the substrate to the inner compartment. The base panel includes a base panel tab integral with the base panel. The base tab is generally coaxial with the compartment tab and is connected to the compartment tab by adhesive material on the bottom surface of the base.

Each of the at least two base tabs extends beyond a distal end of its respective compartment tab. In the closed position, the base tabs each extend onto an exterior surface of a respective compartment. Thus, when the compartment tabs are moved to the closed position, each adhesive base tab contacts the peripheral rim portion and the top surface of the respective compartment to provide a moisture-tight seal. In this configuration, each base tab allows for selective opening and resealing of its respective compartment.

Yet another cigarette package is provided herein. In this embodiment, an outer container is provided to contain a plurality of cigarettes, the outer container having a top rim. A lid is also included that is pivotally connected to the outer container at an upper back end of the outer container. The lid is movable between an open position and a closed position.

At least two moisture-tight compartments are placed within the outer container. The compartments each have a front surface that extends beyond the top rim of the outer container to expose a peripheral rim portion of the outer surface of each compartment. Each compartment also includes a recess to allow access to the cigarettes enclosed within each compartment. Each compartment further comprises compartment tabs, wherein the number of tabs is equal to the number of compartments. Each tab is configured to coincide with a notch of each compartment.

Also included is an adhesive substrate on the interior compartment and extending to a peripheral portion of the compartment. The adhesive base is configured to contact the compartment at a location of the compartment between the outer container top rim and the recess of the compartment. So arranged, the adhesive base is configured to allow selective opening of the individual tabs to expose the recesses of the individual compartments. This configuration allows the additional compartment to remain sealed. The adhesive base is additionally configured to allow resealing of the individual compartments. This resealing prevents evaporation of the aromatic oil and maintains the freshness of the cigarettes in the opened compartments when the respective compartments are in their closed position.

A method of opening and resealing a cigarette package is also provided herein. The method first includes providing a cigarette package. The package is designed according to the package in the various embodiments described above.

The method further includes opening the lid followed by opening the base tab. Opening the base tab causes the associated compartment tab to open, which exposes the cigarette enclosed in one of the compartments. The consumer can then remove the cigarettes from the container. The base tab and attached inner compartment tab may then be moved from an open position to a closed position, sealing the selected compartment. Finally, the lid may be moved from the open position to the closed position to fully close the cigarette package.

A method of assembling a cigarette package is also provided herein. The method first includes providing at least two blanks of material that are liners for at least two moisture or moisture resistant materials. Preferably, the blank of material as the at least two inner liners is made of a moisture resistant material, such as aluminum, tin, nickel or a combination thereof.

Each of the at least two liners is folded into a compartment. The compartment is sized to receive a group of parallel cigarettes. In this way, at least two inner compartments of the cigarette package are formed. Each of the at least two interior compartments has a top side, a back side, and a front side. Each inner compartment also includes a compartment tab. Each compartment tab is bounded by opposing side and end edges, the compartment tab being configured to cover a compartment opening.

The method also includes providing a blank of material as a substrate. The substrate may become a "sticker". The base includes a planar body having a proximal end, a distal end, and a bottom surface. The substrate is designed to increase the shelf life of the cigarette when placed within the compartment of the cigarette package. In one embodiment, the substrate is composed of aluminum, tin, nickel, or a combination thereof. Alternatively, the substrate may be made of a wax-coated cellulosic material.

The adhesive material is disposed along the bottom surface of the substrate. The adhesive material allows the substrate to be selectively folded and releasably attached to the front or upper surface of the compartment. To assist in releasing the substrate from the compartment, the substrate optionally comprises at least two substrate tabs. The tab is free of adhesive material, allowing the tab to act as a gripping tab.

Additionally, the method includes adhering a bottom surface of the substrate to a top surface of each of the at least two internal compartments. The top surface may be along the upper surface of the compartment or near the front surface of the top. The at least two base tabs are generally collinear with the compartment tabs of the at least two compartments. Thus, the base tab is connected to the inner compartment tab. When so arranged, the at least two base tabs and their connected compartment tabs are configured to allow selective opening and resealing of each inner compartment independently.

Preferably, the base tab is slightly larger than the compartment tab and extends beyond the side and end edges of the compartment tab. In this way, the perimeter of the adhesive material is exposed around the bottom surface of the tab, such that pressing along the perimeter of the base tab causes the adhesive material to bond with the compartment, forming a reversible seal after the compartment has been opened.

The method also includes providing a blank of material as a container. The blank forms a perimeter for the liner. The method then includes folding the blank of material as a container about the at least two inner compartments to form a rectangular shell for a plurality of cigarettes.

The method further comprises folding the blank of material as a container to make a hinged lid. The hinged lid may be releasably sealed to the outer front surface of the container. In one aspect, the housing is made of a flexible synthetic material, such as a plastic material. In another aspect, the housing is made of a hard cellulosic material.

Additionally, the method may include providing the blank of material as a sleeve. In such an embodiment, the blank of material as a sleeve is folded around the at least two compartments. The sleeve is configured to hold the at least two inner compartments together and secure the at least two inner compartments within the container. In these embodiments, the sleeve may include a recessed portion forming a shoulder on which the cover lands when pivoted to its closed position.

Optionally, the method further comprises providing a water resistant material and wrapping the container with the water resistant material to provide a moisture barrier.

Drawings

To better understand the present invention, certain figures, icons, graphs, and/or flow diagrams are appended. It is to be noted, however, that the appended drawings illustrate only selected exemplary embodiments of this invention and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope, for the invention may admit to other equally effective embodiments and applications.

Fig. 1A and 1B are perspective views illustrating a known cigarette package design.

Fig. 2A-2H show a series of views of a cigarette package according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

Figure 2A is a perspective view of the cigarette package of the present invention. The lid is shown in a closed position.

Figure 2B is a front plan view of the cigarette package of figure 2A.

Figure 2C is a rear plan view of the cigarette package of figure 2A.

Fig. 2D and 2E are left and right side plan views, respectively, of the cigarette package of fig. 2A.

Figure 2F is another perspective view of the cigarette package of figure 2A. In this view, the hinged lid is moved from its closed position to an open position revealing a base with two tabs that cover two internal compartments within the container.

Figure 2G is yet another perspective view of the cigarette package of figure 2A. In fig. 2G, the hinged lid is in its fully open position. The first tab is peeled away to reveal the cigarettes within the first compartment. Adjacent second tabs and corresponding second compartments remain sealed.

Figure 2H is yet another perspective view of the cigarette package of figure 2A. Here, certain internal components of the package are shown in exploded relation. The base tab and inner compartment tab are in an elevated position, revealing two inner compartments. For illustrative purposes, the cigarette has been removed from the inner compartment.

Fig. 3 is an engineered plan view of "blank" material used in one embodiment to make the outer container of the package of fig. 2A.

Fig. 4A-4D are engineering views of blank material used to form the compartments of the interior of the cigarette package of fig. 2A.

Fig. 4A is an engineered plan view showing, in one embodiment, blank material for making one of the at least two inner compartments (or liners) of the package of fig. 2A. The sealing tongues are shown here together.

Figure 4B is an end view of ten cigarettes arranged in three rows ready to be wrapped in the inner compartment of figure 4A.

Figure 4C is a perspective view of the cigarette of the arrangement of figure 4B positioned along the interior surface of the compartment of figure 4A to be wrapped therein.

Figure 4D is a perspective view showing the outer surface of the compartment of figure 4A after being folded and wrapped around the cigarette of figure 4B.

Fig. 5A-5C are engineering drawings of blank material used to form the sleeve used in the cigarette package of fig. 2A.

Fig. 5A is a plan view showing a blank material in a flat unfolded state for manufacturing a sleeve.

Fig. 5B is a perspective view showing the interior surfaces of the blank material used to make the sleeve of fig. 5A in a partially folded state.

Fig. 5C is another perspective view showing the blank material used to make the sleeve of fig. 5A in a partially folded state. Here, the blank material is reversed with respect to the view of fig. 5B.

Figure 6A is a perspective view of two of the inner compartments of figure 4D side-by-side wrapped by the partially folded sleeve of figure 5B.

Fig. 6B is a plan view showing a blank material for manufacturing a substrate.

Figure 6C is a perspective view of two of the inner compartments of figure 4D surrounded by the sleeve of figure 5B. The substrate of figure 6B is shown positioned along the back of two inner compartments as indicated by the arrows.

Fig. 6D is a front perspective view of the two inner compartments of fig. 6C after being wrapped by a sleeve. The base is shown in an unfolded state extending upwardly from the back of the two inner compartments.

Fig. 6E is a rear perspective view of fig. 6D. The substrate attached to the back of the two inner compartments can be seen more clearly. Perforations along the length of the substrate can also be seen.

Figure 6F is a front perspective view of a portion of the cigarette package of figure 2A. Two inner compartments of figure 4D are shown encased by the sleeve of figure 5B. The substrate is folded over the top surface of the inner compartment and extends along a peripheral portion of the front face of the inner compartment.

Figure 6G is a rear perspective view of the components of the cigarette package of figure 6F. The substrate is shown adhered to the back side of the interior compartment and then folded over the top side of the interior compartment.

Figure 7 is a front perspective view showing the placement of the components of the cigarette package of figure 6F along the interior surface of the unfolded outer container of figure 3 in preparation for closure therein.

Detailed Description

Definition of

As used herein, the term "blank" refers to a substrate that is folded along a designated line to form a three-dimensional object.

Description of selected specific embodiments

The invention has been described herein with reference to certain specific embodiments. In this regard, however, the following detailed description is directed to a particular embodiment or a particular use, which is merely illustrative, and should not be construed to limit the scope of the invention or the claims.

Fig. 1A and 1B are perspective views showing a design for a known cigarette package 100. Cigarette package 100 defines a container 110 for holding a plurality of cigarettes 150. In FIG. 1A, several cigarettes 150 are shown extending from the container 110 for illustrative purposes.

The container 110 has a lower end 112 and an upper end 114. The lid 115 is hinged to the container 110 at the upper end 114. Hinge line 116 is shown. It should be appreciated that the hinge line extends along the back (best seen in fig. 2C).

The lid 115 is movable from an open position in which the cigarettes 150 may be accessed to a closed position in which the lid 115 rests on the shoulder 118. It will be observed that closing the cap 115 limits the contact of the cigarette 150 with air, but does not provide a moisture barrier or an airtight seal.

Figures 2A-2H illustrate a series of views of a cigarette package 200 according to the present invention, in one embodiment. Cigarette package 200 is a dual compartment package, meaning that groups of cigarettes 150 are contained within individually

sealable compartments

300A and 300B.

First, fig. 2A is a perspective view of a cigarette package 200. First, an outer container 210 having a rectangular outline is shown. The container 210 has a lower end 212 and an upper end 214. A cover 215 is disposed at the upper end 214. The lid 215 is pivotally connected to the container 210 by an integral hinge line 216. (best seen in fig. 2C and 2D) preferably, the lid 215 is integrally connected to the container 210, as shown in the blank in fig. 3.

The lid may also include a lid tab 220. The cover tab 220 extends beyond a lower end 219 of the front portion 215B (shown in fig. 2B) of the cover 215. The lid tab 220 is configured to facilitate the opening of the container lid 215 by a consumer.

Fig. 2B and 2C are front and rear plan views, respectively, of the cigarette package 200 of fig. 2A. In fig. 2B, a front panel 210B of the container 210 can be seen; while in fig. 2C, a back 210C of the container 210 is shown. The front panel 210B includes a recess (shown as 520 in fig. 2F) that receives the cover 215 when the cover 215 is in its closed position. In other words, when the cover 215 is closed, the inner surface 217 of the cover rests on the recessed portion 520.

It should also be noted that the front 215B of the cover 215 can be seen in fig. 2B, while the back 215C of the cover 215 can be seen in fig. 2C. Hinge line 216 is also shown in phantom in fig. 2C.

Fig. 2D and 2E provide left and right side plan views, respectively, of the cigarette package 200 of fig. 2A. In these views, the cover 215 is held in its closed position.

Additional details of the package 200 are presented in fig. 2F and 2G. Fig. 2F and 2G provide additional perspective views of the cigarette package 200 of fig. 2A. In the view of fig. 2F, the hinged lid 215 is moved from its closed position to its open position. An arrow "O" is provided indicating the direction of movement to pivot the cover 215 to its open position. In fig. 2G, the hinged cover 215 is in its fully open position.

Referring to fig. 2F and 2G concurrently, it should be noted first that outer container 210 includes shoulder 218. Shoulder 218 defines upper end 214 of the material forming container 210 along front surface 210B. On the shoulder 218 is a recess 520. The front profile of the recessed portion 520 is generally rectangular or trapezoidal in shape and is formed by the sleeve 500 wrapped around the at least two

inner compartments

300A and 300B.

During manufacture, the sleeve 500 is slidably received within the outer container 210. The recess 520 is the front of the sleeve 500, which acts as a landing surface for the cover 215 when the cover 215 is rotated back from its open position (see fig. 2F and 2G) to its closed position (see fig. 2A).

In fig. 2F and 2G, the base 400 is revealed as the rotating cover 215 is moved from its closed position to its open position. The illustrative base 400 includes a pair of

integral base tabs

440A and 440B. Also shown in fig. 2F and 2G are a pair of

inner compartments

300A and 300B. The

inner compartments

300A and 300B are enclosed within the outer container 210 and are sealed, respectively. It can be seen that the base tabs 440A and 44B cover the top surface and a portion of the front face of the

inner compartments

300A and 300B as part of the seal.

An adhesive material is provided along the substrate 400. Specifically, an adhesive material is applied along the bottom surface of the substrate 400. This facilitates releasably attaching the substrate 400 to the

interior compartments

300A and 300B along the top surface and optionally along the front surface.

In fig. 2G, the first base tab 440A is open, having been peeled away from the first interior compartment 300A. As can be seen, first compartment tab 340A is connected to a bottom surface of first base tab 440A. When the first base tab 440A peels away from the first inner compartment 300A, the first inner compartment tab 340A moves with it. The cigarette 150 in the first compartment 300A may then be accessed. In other words, the seal of the first internal compartment 300A is broken and the cigarette 150 wrapped in the first internal compartment 300A is available for consumption.

Beneficially, base tab 440A is slightly larger than first inner compartment tab 340A to provide a perimeter. As described above and in more detail below, this perimeter of the exposed substrate may be coated with an adhesive material to allow for releasable resealing of the interior compartment 300A after removal of the cigarette for consumption. Meanwhile, in the view of FIG. 2G, adjacent second tab 440B and corresponding second compartment 400B remain sealed and no cigarettes residing in second interior compartment 400B are visible. In this manner, the consumer may selectively break only the seal provided by the compartment tab 340A to a portion of the cigarettes 150 within a single package 200 to allow the consumer to delay exposure of the remainder of the cigarettes 150 (under the base tab 340B and the compartment tab 440B) to ambient conditions until the first portion of cigarettes 150 within the package 200 is consumed.

In FIG. 2G, where the lid 215 and first base tab and compartment tab (440A and 340A, respectively) are open, the front 325A of the first interior compartment 300A is also seen. The front face 325A includes a front notch or upper contour 345. The profile 345 is generally rectangular or trapezoidal in shape. The front 325A is a portion of a larger interior compartment (seen more fully at 300 in the perspective view of fig. 4D) that defines a lining of moisture resistant material or moisture resistant material.

As shown in fig. 2F and 2G, when aligned side-by-side, the

inner compartments

300A and 300B have outer surfaces that include a peripheral edge portion 326. The peripheral edge portion 326 is exposed on the recessed portion 520. When all

tabs

340A, 340B, 440A, and 440B are in the closed position, base 400 extends over peripheral edge portion 326. The substrate 400 further covers the top surfaces of the

inner compartments

300A and 300B along a substantial portion of the inner surface 227 of the container 210. When the cover is moved to its closed position, the bottom surface 217 of the cover 215 will fall over the recessed portion 520 and cover the recessed portion 520.

As described above and seen in FIG. 2G, the bottom surface of the base tab 440A is slightly larger than and extends beyond the peripheral edge and the terminal edge of the compartment tab 340A. This allows the boundary of the adhesive material to be formed around the bottom surface of the compartment tab 340A. So arranged, the boundary of the adhesive material allows the consumer to reversibly reseal a selected

internal compartment

300A or 300B after removing the cigarette for consumption. This is accomplished by refolding the joined base tab 440A and compartment tab 340A into a closed position (as shown in FIG. 2F). Optionally, the border of the adhesive material is gently pressed to form a releasable temporary seal. In this manner, the freshness of cigarettes 150 can be maintained when

tabs

340A and 440A are restored to the closed position, even after the factory seal of the outer foil and inner compartment 300A is broken.

Figure 2H is yet another perspective view of the cigarette package 200 of figure 2A. Here, certain internal components of the package 200 are shown in an exploded relationship. In addition, the cigarette 150 is removed for clarity. In fig. 2H, two

internal compartments

300A and 300B can be seen extending from the container 210. The

inner compartments

300A and 300B form two separate moisture or humidity resistant barriers for storing groups of cigarettes within a single package 200.

It should be understood that the cigarette package 200 may enclose more than two inner compartments. In one aspect, three separately sealable or four separately sealable inner compartments are employed. In any event, the sleeve 500 encases the two

inner compartments

300A and 300B to secure them together.

Both

inner compartment tabs

340A and 340B are shown in an open position to reveal the recesses in the top surfaces of

compartments

300A and 300B. This exposes the

interior chambers

380A and 380B of each

compartment

300A and 300B. Also in fig. 2H, the base 400 is shown detached from the

inner compartments

300A and 300B. The

base tab

440A and 440B can be seen to extend perpendicularly from the proximal end 455 of the base 400. The middle portion 430 of the substrate 400 is shown extending horizontally from the proximal end 455 of the substrate 400 and then folded down toward the distal end 435 to define a central front portion 432 of the substrate 400. Regardless of whether the

base tabs

440A and 440B are open (as shown in FIG. 2H) or closed (as shown in FIG. 2F), the central front portion 432 of the base 430 remains connected to the top and

front portions

325A and 325B of the two

interior compartment chambers

380A and 380B.

Proximal end 455 of substrate 400 can also be seen in fig. 2H. The proximal end 455 is shown exploded away from the upper portion of the back of the two internal compartments (shown at 355 in fig. 6E). For illustrative purposes, the lid 215 in fig. 2H is shown separated from the container 210 at hinge line 216. It should be noted that the lid 215 is integrally formed with the blank material from which the container is formed, as shown more clearly in fig. 3.

Fig. 3 is a plan view of a blank material 310 that is used in one embodiment to make the container 210 of the package 200 of fig. 2A. The blank material 310 provides the front panel 210B and the back panel 210C of the container 210. The blank material 310 also includes opposing side panels. A lid 215 is shown, integral with the container 210, and defined as the portion of the blank 310 disposed above the hinge line 216. The cover tab 220 may also be considered an integral part of the cover 215. The dashed lines show where the blank material 310 is to be folded during the manufacturing process.

Figure 4A is a plan view of a blank material 410 that is used to fabricate one of the at least two inner compartments 300 (or liners) in one embodiment. The dashed lines again show the locations where the blank material 410 is to be folded during the manufacture of the inner compartment 300. The opposing ends 320 and 330 are folded over each other to form a base layer. The blank material 410 also includes opposing side panels, a front face 325, a top face 360, and a back face 327.

It can be seen that the compartment tab 340 extends from a small portion of the back side 327, continues through a portion of the top side 360, and finally terminates at the upper contour 345 of the front side 325. The majority of the compartment tab 340 is disposed along the top surface 360 of the compartment 300. The compartment tabs 340 are parallel to the edge 342.

The inner compartment 300 is preferably made of a material that is moisture resistant. For example, the material includes aluminum, tin, nickel, or a combination thereof. Alternatively, the material may comprise any substance known in the art that is moisture resistant and capable of being folded into an inner liner, such as waxed cardboard. Each of the inner compartments 300 helps to maintain the aroma oil and moisture of the cigarettes 150 within the container 210, even after the package 200 has been opened by a consumer.

In essence, the compartment tab 340 is an extension of the inner compartment 300. The tabs 340 are also made of a moisture resistant material such as aluminum, tin, nickel or combinations thereof.

Figure 4B is an end view of a group of ten loose cigarettes arranged in three rows ready to be wrapped in one of the at least two internal compartments 300.

Figure 4C is a perspective view of the group of cigarettes 150 of figure 4B positioned along the interior surface of the compartment 300 to be wrapped therein. Once folded, glue 700 may be applied at the location 700 noted in fig. 4C to secure the compartment 300 in the folded state.

Figure 4D shows a perspective view of the inner compartment 300 folded around a group of cigarettes (not shown). In this manner, the compartment 300 forms a moisture-resistant or moisture-resistant barrier that maintains the freshness of the group of cigarettes enclosed therein. It should be noted that compartment tab 340 is in its sealed state. Perforated at parallel lines 342 and front notches 345.

Fig. 5A is a plan view of a blank material 510 used to make a sleeve 500 to be wrapped around the at least two

inner compartments

300A and 300B. The blank material 510 also forms a recess 520 (shown in fig. 2F and 2G) of the container 210. The dashed lines again show where the blank material 510 is to be folded during the manufacturing process.

Fig. 5B and 5C are perspective views illustrating a blank material 510 in a partially folded state that is used to make the sleeve 500. As shown, sleeve 500 includes two

walls

530A and 530B.

Walls

530A and 530B are joined together to form inner wall 530 by folding the two

walls

530A and 530B in the direction of arrow "F". Fig. 5C shows an exemplary glue location 700 on a surface of one wall 530B that will receive a surface of another wall 530A. Thus, when folded together, the two

walls

530A and 530B may be irreversibly connected together to form a single inner wall 530 that is placed between

adjacent compartments

300A and 300B.

Figure 6A is a perspective view of two

inner compartments

300A and 300B of figure 4D side-by-side to be wrapped by the partially folded sleeve 500 of figure 5B.

Compartments

300A and 300B move in the direction of arrow "5" to connect sleeve 500. An exemplary glue location 700 is shown on an interior surface that will become the back 527 of the sleeve 500. Thus, in this embodiment, compartments 300A and 300B would be connected to sleeve 500.

Fig. 6B is a plan view showing a blank material 610 used to fabricate the substrate 400. The dashed lines illustrate where the blank material 610 is to be folded during manufacture of the package 200. The bottom surface of the base 400 may be coated with an adhesive material to allow connection with the

compartments

300A and 300B after folding (as shown in fig. 6F and 6G).

As shown in the blank 610 of fig. 6B, the base 400 has a proximal end 455, the proximal end 455 preferably being along and connected to an upper portion of the back side of the inner compartment (shown as 355A/355B in fig. 6E). The proximal end 455 of the base 400 is contoured to match the contour of the upper end of the back face 527 of the folded sleeve 500 (as shown in fig. 6E and 6G). The profile may comprise an elongated U-shaped design. The elongated U-shaped design is provided to facilitate easy opening and closing of the lid 215.

The blank material 610 also includes

base tabs

440A and 440B. The

tabs

440A and 440B are separated by an intermediate portion 430. The middle portion 430 and the

base tabs

440A and 440B each have a front face (432A and 432B, respectively) that, when folded and placed along the

compartments

300A and 300B, forms the front face of the base 425. Each

base tab

440A and 440B is laterally bounded by side boundaries of the base 400 and centrally bounded by

perforations

437A and 437B extending through the portions of the base 400 between the base tab 440A and the intermediate portion 430 and the portions of the base 400 between the base tab 440B and the intermediate portion 430, respectively. The substrate 400 is distally bounded by the distal end 435 of the substrate 400.

Substrate 400 also includes

substrate tabs

445A and 445B. The

base tabs

445A and 445B are in line with each

base tab

440A and 440B. As shown, the

base tabs

445A and 445B extend beyond the distal end 435 of the base 400 and are configured to facilitate easy opening of the

base tabs

440A and 440B by a consumer.

The base 400 and base tab 440 are designed, manufactured and configured to extend the life of the cigarettes 150 in the package 200. It is believed that the life of the cigarette 150 may be extended by up to 20%, or even up to 40%, as measured from the time the consumer first opens the package. It is also believed that the shelf life of the cigarettes 150 is also extended before the package 200 is opened.

Fig. 6C is a perspective view of two

inner compartments

300A and 300B being enclosed by sleeve 500. Here, as the sleeve 500 and the

compartments

300A and 300B are coupled together, the inner wall 530 of the sleeve 500 is folded into position between the two

compartments

300A and 300B. Meanwhile, a substrate 400 is shown, which is placed along the upper portion of the back side (at 355 in fig. 6E) of the

inner compartments

300A and 300B in the direction of arrow 9.

Figure 6D is a front perspective view of the two

internal compartments

300A and 300B after being wrapped by the sleeve 500. It can be partially seen that the inner wall 530 of the sleeve 500 is disposed between the two

compartments

300A and 300B. A recessed portion 520 of sleeve 500 is shown covering portions of front face 325 of

inner compartments

300A and 300B. The base 400 is shown in an unfolded state, placed on the

upper portions

355A and 355B of the back of the

internal compartments

300A and 300B.

Fig. 6E is a rear perspective view of fig. 6D. The unfolded substrate 400 can be more clearly seen as the substrate 400 is placed along the

upper portions

355A and 355B of the

back sides

327A and 327B of the

cells

300A and 300B. The complementary contours of the proximal end 455 of the base 400 and the upper end of the back face 527 of the sleeve 500 are shown relative to one another. In this embodiment, the profile is an elongated U-shaped design.

Fig. 6F is a front perspective view of insert 600. The insert 600 includes two (or more)

internal compartments

300A and 300B encased in a sleeve 500. The substrate 400 is shown folded over the

top surfaces

360A and 360B of the

inner compartments

300A and 300B and extending along portions of the front faces 325A and 325B of the

inner compartments

300A and 300B to define a peripheral edge portion 326. As shown in the exemplary embodiment, peripheral rim portion 326 extends to the top of recessed portion 520 of sleeve 500.

A middle portion 430 of the substrate 400 is shown extending across the gap between the

top surfaces

360A and 360B of the

compartments

300A and 300B. In this way, the inner wall 530 of the sleeve 500 that was visible prior to the folding of the base 400 is now covered.

Also in fig. 6F,

base tabs

445A and 445B are shown extending beyond

base tabs

440A and 440B. It should be noted that base 400 covers

compartment tabs

340A and 340B. The insert 600 is enclosed within the container 210 to form the completed cigarette package 200 (shown in figure 7, discussed in more detail below).

Fig. 6G is a rear perspective view of insert 600. In this embodiment, again, the substrate 400 is shown folded across the

top surfaces

360A and 360B of the

inner compartments

300A and 300B. The base 400 extends along portions of the

back surfaces

355A and 355B of the

inner compartments

300A and 300B. The profile of the proximal end 455 of the opposing complementary base 400 and the profile of the upper end of the back face 527 of the sleeve 500 are again shown. This profile takes an elongated U-shaped design and is configured to allow for efficient opening and closing of the lid 215.

Advantageously, the location of the inner wall 530 of the sleeve 500 may be considered as the spacing between the two

compartments

300A and 300B. A middle portion 430 of the base 400 is shown extending across the gap between the

top surfaces

360A and 360B of the

compartments

300A and 300B to cover a portion of the inner wall 530 of the sleeve 500.

Finally, fig. 7 is a front perspective view showing placement of the insert 600 of fig. 6F and 6G along the interior surface of the unfolded outer container 210 in preparation for closure therein. The insert 600 is placed along the back wall 210C of the container 210 and lid 215 are folded around the insert 600. An exemplary glue location 700 is shown in a hatched area along the interior surfaces of the container 210 and lid 215. The dashed lines show where the container 210 and lid 215 are to be folded during manufacture. In this manner, the insert 600 is irreversibly connected to the container 210 and enclosed therein to form the complete cigarette package 200 as shown in fig. 2A-2H.

As described above and seen in FIG. 2G, the bottom surface of the base tab 440A is slightly larger than and extends beyond the peripheral edge and the terminal edge of the compartment tab 340A. Since the bottom surface of the base 400 is covered with adhesive material, a perimeter of adhesive material is formed around the bottom surface of the compartment tab 340A. So arranged, the perimeter of the adhesive material allows the consumer to reversibly reseal the inner compartment 300A after removing the cigarette for consumption. To provide a temporary seal after removal of cigarettes 150 from package 200, the opened base tab 440A and attached compartment tab 340A are folded in the direction of arrow "C" until the tabs are in a closed position (as shown in FIG. 2F). In the closed position of fig. 2F and 6F, the base tab 440A is received along portions of the top side 360A and the front side 325A of the compartment 300A. The base tab 440A is then pressed such that the perimeter of the adhesive material exposed on the bottom surface of the base tab (440A in fig. 2G) becomes connected with the inner compartment 300A, which forms a temporary seal. After the interior compartment 300A is resealed, the lid 215 may be moved in the direction of arrow "C" to fall onto the shoulder 218 of the container 210. In this manner, the freshness of the cigarettes can be maintained when

tabs

340A and 440A and lid 215 are moved to the closed position, even after the factory seal of

interior compartments

300A and 300B is broken.

To break the factory seal or temporary seal, the lid 215 is first opened by moving the lid tab 220 in the direction of arrow "O", as shown in fig. 2F. The base tab 445A may then be grasped and pulled in the direction of arrow "O" which breaks the perforation 437A along the medial edge of the base tab 440A and peels the base tab 440A upward. As the base tab 440A is peeled upward, the inner compartment tab 340A to which it is connected is likewise pulled in an upward direction, which breaks the seal and exposes the cigarette 150 enclosed within the compartment 300A (as shown in figure 2G). After picking the cigarettes 150, the package 200 may be resealed and closed multiple times as described above due to the adhesive.

It can be seen that an improved cigarette package is provided herein. The cigarette pack functions to extend the life of a conventionally packed cigarette by at least 20% to 40%. While it is apparent that the invention described herein is well calculated to achieve the benefits and advantages described above, it will be appreciated that the invention is susceptible to modification, variation and change without departing from the spirit of the invention.

Claims

1. A package of cigarettes, comprising:

an outer container configured to closely receive two or more cigarette inserts, wherein each insert comprises:

a moisture resistant inner liner forming a compartment configured to closely receive a plurality of cigarettes in a parallel arrangement, wherein each compartment comprises:

an outer surface having a top surface, a bottom surface, a front surface, a back surface, an upper portion, and a lower portion; and

a compartment tab configured to be peeled back at least from the upper surface of the compartment to an unsealed position to enable access to a cigarette within the associated compartment, and configured to be resealed after the associated compartment is opened;

a lid pivotally connected to the container proximate an upper end to provide selective access to the compartment and the cigarettes therein, the lid being movable between an open position and a closed position; and

a sleeve configured to encircle the two or more cigarette inserts and to house the cigarette inserts in adjacent relation within the outer container.

2. A cigarette package of claim 1 wherein

The outer container comprises a front surface forming an upper shoulder, wherein the distal end of the lid falls over the shoulder when the lid is pivoted to its closed position;

the sleeve includes a front surface that is a recessed portion of the container, wherein the recessed portion extends over the shoulder and receives a bottom surface of the lid when the lid is pivoted to its closed position; and

each compartment tab has a proximal end integral with the moisture resistant liner of the respective compartment and a distal end movable between the unsealed position and the resealed position.

3. The cigarette package of claim 2, further comprising a base connected to each compartment of the at least two cigarette inserts, the base comprising:

a distal end, a proximal end, a side boundary, and a bottom surface, wherein:

the proximal end is secured to a rear surface of each of the compartments;

said distal end is configured to pivot from a sealed position wherein said distal end adhesively lands on said front surface of said compartments above said sleeve and from an unsealed position; and

the bottom surface is adhesively secured to the compartment tabs such that moving the distal end of a base to its unsealed position moves the respective compartment tab at least partially to its unsealed position as well.

4. A cigarette package of claim 3 wherein

The two or more cigarette inserts represent two cigarette inserts such that a first compartment and a second compartment are provided for the cigarette package;

the base further comprises a first base tab associated with the first compartment and a second base tab associated with the second compartment, wherein each of the first base tab and the second base tab is disposed over and bonded to the first compartment tab and the second compartment tab, respectively;

said first and second compartment tabs each laterally bounded by opposing side margins and distally by distal ends thereof enabling independent peeling of said base tab from said first and second compartments, respectively; and

the base tab is configured such that pulling on the distal end of the base adjacent one base tab causes selective opening of the one base tab and simultaneous opening of the respective compartment tab to which it is connected to reversibly open a portion of the respective compartment for access to a cigarette.

5. The cigarette package of claim 4, wherein:

each base tab extends beyond the side and end edges of the respective compartment tab to form a perimeter of adhesive material exposed about the bottom surface of each base tab; and

when the base and compartment tabs are closed, a perimeter of the adhesive material lands on the exterior surface of the respective compartment to form a temporary seal.

6. The cigarette package of claim 5, wherein each base tab and respective compartment tab extend from a portion of the back face of the compartment and continue along the top face of the compartment to a portion of the front face of the compartment.

7. The cigarette package of claim 4, wherein each base panel tab further comprises a tab extending beyond the distal end of the base panel, the tab configured to allow easier grasping and pulling of each base panel tab.

8. The cigarette package of claim 4, wherein the compartment, the compartment tab, the base tab, or a combination thereof is made of a moisture resistant aroma oil barrier material.

9. The cigarette package of claim 4, wherein the compartment, the compartment tab, the base tab, or a combination thereof comprises a metallic material, a cellulosic material, a plastic material, or a combination thereof.

10. The cigarette package of claim 9, wherein the compartment, the compartment tab, the base tab, or a combination thereof comprises aluminum, tin, nickel, or a combination thereof.

11. The cigarette package of claim 1, further comprising:

an outer layer of waterproof foil around the outer container.

12. A cigarette package of claim 1, wherein the outer container is made primarily of a rigid cellulosic or synthetic material and has a rectangular cross-section.

13. A package of cigarettes, comprising:

an outer container configured to hold a plurality of cigarettes, the outer container having an outer surface and a recess set back inwardly from the outer surface, the recess having a top edge and a first profile;

a lid pivotally connected to the outer container at an upper back end thereof, the lid being movable between an open position and a closed position;

at least two moisture-resistant compartments disposed within the outer container, the compartments each having a front surface extending over the top rim and the first contour of the recessed portion to expose a peripheral rim portion of an outer surface of each compartment;

the at least two compartments each comprising a compartment tab integral with each compartment, each compartment tab having a distal end and a lateral boundary;

a substrate attached to and disposed along the top surfaces of the at least two compartments, wherein the bottom surface of the substrate is coated with an adhesive material;

the base panel further comprises at least two base panel tabs integral with the base panel, the at least two base panel tabs generally coaxial with and adhesively connected to the compartment tab;

each of the at least two substrate tabs extending beyond the distal and lateral boundaries of its respective compartment tab and onto the exterior surface of the respective compartment, the adhesive substrate being configured to contact the peripheral border portion and the top face of the respective compartment to provide a moisture-resistant seal when the substrate tab and compartment tab are in a closed position;

each base tab is configured to allow selective opening and resealing of its respective compartment;

14. The cigarette package of claim 13, further comprising:

a sleeve configured to be wrapped around the at least two moisture-resistant compartments and to contain the compartments in adjacent relation within the outer container, wherein the sleeve is adhesively secured within the outer container;

wherein:

the at least two compartments represent a first compartment and a second compartment, and the at least two compartment tabs represent a first compartment tab and a second compartment tab integral with the first compartment and the second compartment, respectively;

the at least two base tabs represent a first base tab and a second base tab;

the sleeve comprises a front surface that is the recessed portion of the outer container, wherein the recessed portion extends over the shoulder and receives a bottom surface of the lid when the lid is pivoted to its closed position;

the side boundary of the compartment tab comprises a perforation;

each of the first and second base tabs are disposed over and bonded to the first and second compartment tabs, respectively; and

15. The cigarette package of claim 14, wherein:

the compartment, compartment tab, base and base tab are made of a moisture resistant fragrance oil barrier material; and

the outer container is mainly made of a hard cellulose material or a synthetic material and has a rectangular cross section.

16. A package of cigarettes, comprising:

an outer container configured to hold a plurality of cigarettes, the outer container having a top rim;

at least two moisture-resistant compartments disposed within the outer container, the compartments each having a front surface extending past the top rim of the outer container to expose a peripheral rim portion of the outer surface of each compartment, the compartments each having a recess allowing access to a group of cigarettes within each compartment;

each compartment further comprises compartment tabs, wherein the number of tabs is equal to the number of compartments;

each tab is configured to coincide with the notch of each compartment; and an adhesive substrate on the compartment and extending to the peripheral portion of the compartment, the adhesive substrate configured to contact the compartment at a location on the compartment between the outer container top rim and the recess of the compartment

Wherein the adhesive base is thus configured to allow selective opening of a single tab to expose the recess of a single compartment while allowing another compartment to remain sealed;

the adhesive base is further configured to allow resealing of the compartment when the outer container is in the closed position to prevent evaporation of the aroma oil and to maintain freshness of the cigarettes in the previously opened compartment.

17. A method of opening and resealing a cigarette package comprising:

providing a package of cigarettes, the package comprising:

an outer container configured to closely receive a plurality of cigarettes;

a lid pivotally connected to the container proximate an upper end to provide selective access to the cigarettes, the lid being movable between an open position and a closed position;

a first liner forming a first compartment and a second liner forming a second compartment;

the first compartment and the second compartment are within the outer container;

the first compartment and the second compartment each having an exterior surface with a top surface, a bottom surface, a front surface, a back surface, an upper portion, and a lower portion;

the first and second compartments further comprise first and second compartment tabs, respectively, configured to allow each compartment to be resealed after it is opened;

a base having an adhesive material along a bottom surface, the bottom surface including a distal end;

the base further comprises a first base tab and a second base tab, the first base tab and the second base tab being disposed over and connected to the first compartment tab and the second compartment tab, respectively;

opening the lid;

opening the base tab, which then causes the respective inner compartment tab to which it is attached to be opened, exposing the cigarettes enclosed in the opened compartment;

moving the base tab and connected interior compartment tab from an open position to a closed position to seal the open interior compartment;

moving the lid from an open position to a closed position to fully close the cigarette package.

18. A method for assembling a cigarette package, comprising:

providing at least two blanks of material lining at least two moisture-resistant or moisture-proof materials;

providing at least two groups of cigarettes;

folding the first inner liner about the first group of cigarettes to form one of the at least two inner compartments;

folding the second liner about the second group of cigarettes to form another of the at least two inner compartments;

each of the at least two inner compartments comprises a top side, a back side, and a front side;

each of the at least two inner compartments further comprises a compartment tab defined by opposing side and end edges;

providing a blank of material as a substrate;

the substrate includes a bottom surface having an adhesive material disposed along the bottom surface; and

the base further comprises at least two base tab;

adhering the bottom surface of the substrate to a top surface of each of the at least two inner compartments such that the at least two substrate tabs are generally collinear with and connected to the compartment tabs of the at least two compartments;

the at least two base tabs and the compartment tabs to which they are connected are configured to allow selective opening and resealing of the respective inner compartments;

providing a blank of material as a container, comprising a lid portion;

folding the blank of material as a container about the at least two inner compartments to form an outer container that closely houses the at least two groups of cigarettes when assembled; and

folding the lid portion of the blank of material as a container to make a hinged lid.

19. The method as recited in claim 18, further comprising:

providing a blank of material as a sleeve;

folding the blank of material as the sleeve around the at least two compartments, the sleeve configured to hold the at least two inner compartments together and secure the at least two inner compartments to the container, wherein the sleeve comprises a recessed portion forming a shoulder on which the lid falls when pivoted to its closed position.

20. The method of claim 18, wherein:

the base tab is slightly larger than the compartment tab and extends beyond the side and end edges of the compartment tab to form a perimeter of adhesive material exposed around the bottom surface of the tab; and

pressing along the perimeter of the adhesive material causes the compartment to be sealed after opening.