Smoking Article

Abstract

A smoking article (10) comprising a source of smokable material (11); and a sleeve (13) coupled to the source of smokable material and defining a chamber (15). The sleeve has a distal end configured to be movable relative to the source of smokable material. The smoking article (10) further comprises a smoke modifying agent releasable into the smoking article.

Description

The present invention relates to a smoking article. In particular, the invention relates to an extendable smoking article whose length can be varied to vary the length of an internal chamber.

An extendable cigarette is known from U.S. Pat. No. 2,820,462. The cigarette is telescopic, with a tobacco rod slidable within a tube having a filter at the mouthpiece end. The tobacco rod can be slid within the tube to vary the size of an internal chamber.

U.S. Pat. No. 3,062,218 describes a telescopic cigarette in which a tobacco rod is slidable within a tube. The tube may be coated with a flavouring material, such as menthol, to provide flavour.

The present invention provides a smoking article comprising: a first part comprising a source of smokable material; a second part having at least an end configured to be movable relative to the first part; and the smoking article further comprising a smoke modifying agent releasable into the smoking article.

Thus, the smoking article contains a smoke modifying agent which is delivered when required.

The present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

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

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

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

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of a smoking article according to the present invention, in a partially formed state;

FIG. 5 is a cut-away side elevation view of a third embodiment of the smoking article;

FIG. 6 a is a schematic perspective view of a fourth embodiment of the smoking article, in a retracted state;

FIG. 6 b is a schematic perspective view of the smoking article of FIG. 6a, in an extended state;

FIG. 7 a is a schematic side elevation view of a first embodiment of a flavour delivery system in a smoking article, in a retracted state;

FIG. 7 b is an enlarged view of the flavour delivery system of FIG. 7a;

FIG. 8 a is a schematic side elevation view of a first embodiment of a flavour delivery system in an smoking article, in a partially extended state;

FIG. 8 b is an enlarged view of the flavour delivery system of FIG. 8a;

FIG. 9 a is a schematic side elevation view of a first embodiment of a flavour delivery system in a smoking article, in an extended state;

FIG. 9 b is an enlarged view of the flavour delivery system of FIG. 9a;

FIG. 10 a is a cut-away perspective view of the flavour delivery system of FIG. 7a;

FIG. 10 b is a cut-away perspective view of the flavour delivery system of FIG. 9a;

FIG. 11 is a schematic side elevation view of a second embodiment of a flavour delivery system in a smoking article, in a retracted state;

FIG. 12 is a schematic side elevation view of the second embodiment of the flavour delivery system in a smoking article, in a partially extended state;

FIG. 13 is a schematic side elevation view of the second embodiment of the flavour delivery system in a smoking article, in an extended state;

FIG. 14 is a cut-away perspective view of a package containing smoking articles with the second embodiment of the flavour delivery system;

FIG. 15 a is a perspective view of a variation of the second embodiment of the flavour delivery system in a smoking article, in a retracted state;

FIG. 15 b is a perspective view of the smoking article of FIG. 15a, in a partially extended state;

FIG. 15 c is a perspective view of the smoking article of FIG. 15a, in an extended state;

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a third embodiment of a flavour delivery system in a smoking article;

FIG. 17 is an enlarged cut-away side elevation view of the flavour delivery system of FIG. 16;

FIG. 18 is an enlarged cut-away cross section through the flavour delivery system of FIG. 16;

FIG. 19 is a cutaway side elevation view of a fourth embodiment of a flavour delivery system;

FIG. 20 is a cutaway side elevation view of FIG. 19 during use; and

FIG. 21 is a side elevation view of the smoking article of FIG. 19.

FIGS. 1 to 3 show a first embodiment of a smoking article 10. The smoking article may be an article such as a cigarette, cigar or cigarillo. For convenience, these will be referred to as “smoking articles” in this specification. The smoking article 10 comprises a first part comprising a source of smokable material in the form of a tobacco rod 11, with an attached first filter section 12. The tobacco rod 11 and first filter section 12 are attached with a covering layer, preferably formed of tipping paper.

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

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

A chamber 15 is defined in the sleeve 13 between the first filter section 12 and second filter section 14. The chamber 15 has a variable length, and hence volume, as the first filter section 12 slides axially within the cylindrical sleeve 13. The chamber 15 has a length varying from zero to a predetermined maximum length. Thus, an end of the sleeve 13 distal to the source of smokable material is movable relative to the source of smokable material. The first part is slidable around the second part, i.e. the second part is slidable within the first part.

Relative movement of the first and second parts, i.e. sleeve 13 and tobacco rod 11, beyond the maximum length is prevented by a restraining means, preferably abutting surfaces on or adjacent to the tobacco rod 11 and sleeve 13. In particular, the restraining means may comprise a first engaging surface extending radially inwardly from the sleeve 13, engagable with a second engaging surface extending radially outwardly from the tobacco unit. The second engaging surface may be provided by sheet material wrapped around the tobacco unit, and in particular, by material (e.g. tipping paper) connecting the tobacco rod and first filter.

FIG. 2 shows the smoking article 10 in a retracted state, with the tobacco rod 11 and first filter section 12 moved up to the second filter section 13. The length of the chamber 15 has been reduced to zero. The smoking article 10 is at its shortest overall length. The smoking article 10 may be packaged in the retracted state prior to use. The smoking article 10 may be returned to the retracted state after use, once the tobacco rod 11 has been partially or fully combusted.

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

FIG. 4 shows a second embodiment of the smoking article 20. The smoking article 20 comprises a cylinder of tobacco 21 surrounded by, and attached to, a sleeve 23 to form a tobacco rod. The cylinder of tobacco 21 does not move relative to the sleeve 23. The sleeve 23 has a section 23a extending rearwardly of the tobacco 21. A filter 24 is longitudinally slidable within the sleeve section 23a. A chamber 25 is formed by the tubular section 23a, between the tobacco 21 and the filter 24.

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

Relative movement of the sleeve 23 and filter 24 beyond the maximum length is prevented by a restraining means. Preferably, the restraining means comprises first and second engaging surfaces on or adjacent to the sleeve 23a and filter 24 respectively. A second engaging surface may be provided by one or more layers of sheet material (e.g. tipping paper) wrapped around the filter 24.

FIG. 5 shows a third embodiment of the smoking article 30. Smoking article 30 has a similar construction to the embodiment of FIGS. 1 to 3, having a tobacco rod 31 attached to a filter 32. The tobacco rod 31 and filter 32 are slidable within a sleeve 33 formed as a cylindrical tube. At the mouthpiece end of the sleeve 33 is a stain binder 36, instead of a second filter. The stain binder 36 may remove substances which can cause staining. A variable length chamber 35 is formed between the filter 32 and stain binder 36.

FIGS. 6 a and 6b show a fourth embodiment of an extendable smoking article 40. The smoking article 40 comprises a tobacco rod (not shown) attached to a first filter section 42. A sleeve 43 is attached to the first filter section 42. At a distal end of the sleeve 43 is a second filter section 44, defining a mouthpiece end. A chamber 45 is defined in the sleeve 43, between the first and second filter sections 42, 44.

The sleeve 43 can fold as a concertina in order to vary the length of the sleeve 43 and chamber 45. The sleeve 43 has a plurality of sections of varying diameter, such that fold lines are formed around the circumference of the sleeve 43 at lines of maximum and minimum diameter.

In a retracted state shown in FIG. 6a, the first and second filter sections 42,44 are urged together, such that the sleeve is compressed. The sleeve lines of the sleeve 43 increase in angle, and segments of the sleeve 43 between fold lines are orientated towards a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the smoking article. The chamber 45 has a relatively short length.

In an extended state shown in FIG. 6b, the first and second filter sections 42,44 are urged apart, such that the fold lines of the sleeve 43 decrease in angle, and segments of the sleeve 43 between fold lines are orientated towards a plane parallel to the longitudinal axis of the smoking article. The chamber 45 has a relatively long length.

The concertina sleeve 43 therefore allows the chamber 45 to vary in length without requiring parts sliding relative to each other. Thus, an end of the sleeve 43 distal to the source of smokable material is movable relative to the source of smokable material.

As shown in FIG. 6b, the concertina sleeve 43 also allows controlled bending of the smoking article 40. The sleeve 43 may be urged at an angle or perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, such that one or more fold lines of the sleeve 43 are not uniformly extended around the circumference. The variation in extension around the circumference of the sleeve 43 provides for bending of the sleeve 43. The longitudinal axis of the first filter section 42 is not co-axial with the longitudinal axis of the second filter section 44 when the sleeve 43 is bent.

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 recessed 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 starch. Alternatively, the tube may be made from a ceramic material. Alternatively, the tube may be formed from foil, metal or metallised paper.

The embodiments above have been described as having a filter section at the mouthpiece (rearward) end of the sleeve. Alternatively, the sleeve may not contain such a filter section or stain binder. In the absence of a filter or stain binder at the mouthpiece end of the sleeve, the sleeve is only a hollow tube and the chamber is defined by the sleeve between the tobacco unit and the mouthpiece end of the sleeve. The embodiments described above may have at least one filter section, attached to one or both of the source of smokable material and the mouthpiece end of the sleeve. Alternatively, the smoking article may not include any filter section.

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

The second filter may be shaped, preferably to aid draw strength or provide other benefits relating to sensation and staining pattern. The filter may be made from pressed, formed or extruded acetate.

In a further embodiment of the smoking article, the chamber contains loose filtration material, retained by the second filter or suitable means preventing escape of the loose material. The loose filtration material is preferably granulated carbon, providing loose carbon particles in the chamber.

FIGS. 7 to 21 show four embodiments of flavour delivery systems, for providing flavourants. Any of the embodiments of the flavour delivery systems may be used with any of the embodiments of smoking article described in FIGS. 1 to 6, unless otherwise stated.

FIGS. 7 a to 9b show a first embodiment of a flavour delivery system in a smoking article 50. Smoking article 50 comprises a variable length chamber 55, substantially as described in any of the embodiments above. The smoking article 50 comprises a tobacco unit 51, which may comprise a tobacco rod and first filter as described with respect to FIGS. 1 to 3 or 5 to 6b, or only a tobacco rod as described with respect to FIG. 4. The chamber 55 is defined between the tobacco unit 51 and a filter or stain binder 54. The filter or stain binder 54 will be referred to as filter 54.

A flexible elongate substrate 57 is located in the chamber 55. The substrate 57 has a first end attached to the tobacco unit 51. The substrate 57 has a second end attached adjacent the mouthpiece end of the smoking article, attached to the sleeve 53 or to the filter 54. The substrate 57 is preferably a strip of flexible material, in particular, a strip of paper.

When the smoking article is in a retracted state, as shown in FIGS. 7a and 7b, the substrate 57 is folded against itself. Preferably, the substrate 57 has a plurality of folds 58 such that several sections of substrate 57 face an adjacent section of substrate 57, and are in close proximity to such an opposing section. Flavouring units 59 containing a source of flavouring are attached between the facing sections of substrate 57. Flavouring units 59 are inhibited from releasing flavouring by being covered by the facing sections of substrate 57. The source of flavouring may be locked in a weak glue bound parcel.

FIGS. 8 a and 8b show the smoking article 50 in a partially extended state. The separation of the tobacco unit 51 and filter 54 is increased from the retracted state. The substrate 57 is extended by a reduction in the angle of folds. The flavouring units 59 are divided into a first flavouring portion attached to a first facing surface of the substrate 57, and a second flavouring portion attached to a second, opposed, facing surface of the substrate 57. The first and second portions may be “cracked” apart in a non-reversible separation. The detached flavouring portions release the flavourings into the chamber 55. Alternatively the flavouring units 59 may remain whole, and release flavouring by being uncovered, i.e. separated from, an adjacent covering section of substrate 57.

Alternatively, the source of flavouring may be contained within microcapsules. The microcapsules are configured to be ruptured by the separation of facing surfaces of the substrate.

FIGS. 9 a and 9b show the smoking article 50 in a fully extended state. The separation of the tobacco unit 51 and filter 54 is increased from the partially extended state. The substrate 57 is further extended by an additional reduction in the angle of folds 58. The substrate 57 is not taut, and does not inhibit or affect the extension of the smoking article 50. The flavouring units 59 are located at intervals along the whole length of the substrate 57, providing for a diffuse release of flavourings over the length of the chamber 55.

FIGS. 10 a and 10b show a perspective view of the smoking article 50 in a retracted state and extended state respectively. The substrate 57 may be formed of a suitable strip of flexible material, which can support flavouring units 59. The substrate 57 is preferably of paper, and may be of board weight. Alternatively, the substrate 57 may be formed of a metallic foil strip. The flavouring units 59 are formed as a series of dots on the substrate 59.

FIGS. 11 to 15 c show a second embodiment of a flavour delivery system in a smoking article 60. Smoking article 60 comprises a variable length chamber 65, substantially as described in any of the embodiments above. The smoking article 60 comprises a tobacco unit 61, which may comprise a tobacco rod and filter as described with respect to FIGS. 1 to 3 or 5 to 6b, or only a tobacco rod as described with respect to FIG. 4. The chamber 65 is defined between the tobacco unit 61 and a filter or stain binder 64. The filter or stain binder 64 will be referred to as filter 64.

A flexible elongate substrate 67 is located in the chamber 65. The substrate 67 has a first end attached to the tobacco unit 61. The substrate 67 extends through an aperture in the filter 64, and has a second end outside of the chamber 65 and beyond the filter 64. The substrate 67 is preferably a flexible string. The second end of the substrate 67 may be provided with an enlarged section 68, to prevent the second end of the substrate 67 passing though the filter 64. The enlarged section 68 may be formed by a knot in the substrate 67.

FIG. 11 shows the smoking article 60 in a retracted state. The substrate 67 extends through the filter 64 and the majority of the length of the substrate 67 is outside of the chamber 65, rearward of the filter 64. The substrate 67 is coated with a flavouring, preferably in the form of a wax incorporating the source of flavouring. The flavouring is preferably menthol.

FIG. 12 shows the smoking article 60 in a partially extended state. The separation of the tobacco unit 61 and filter 64 is increased from the retracted state. The substrate 64 is drawn through the filter 64 as the smoking article is extended, and is taut within the chamber 65. As the substrate is drawn through the filter 64, some of the flavouring coated on the substrate 67 is absorbed into the filter 64.

FIG. 13 shows the smoking article 60 in a fully extended state. The separation of the tobacco unit 61 and filter 64 is increased from the partially extended state. The substrate 67 is taut within the chamber 65, and the enlarged section 68 is adjacent the filter 64. The enlarged section 68 may be used to limit extension of the smoking article 60, since further extension is not possible once the enlarged section 68 abuts the filter 64. The chamber 65 receives flavouring, in particular menthol, from the substrate 67.

FIG. 14 shows a package 70 containing smoking articles 60 substantially as described above. The package comprises a first compartment 71 for receiving a plurality of smoking articles 60. The smoking articles 60 are stored in the package 70 in the retracted state. The smoking articles 60 extend vertically in the first compartment. A second compartment 72 is formed vertically below the first compartment, and is separated from the first compartment by a divider 73. The divider 73 has an array of apertures 74, one aperture 74 aligned with the intended position of one smoking article 60 in the first compartment. The second compartment 72 acts as a reservoir containing a flavouring 75 in liquid form.

Each of the smoking articles 60 are arranged in the package 70 with the substrate 67 extending downwardly, through an aperture 74 and into the second compartment 72. The substrate 67 extends into the reservoir of liquid flavouring 75. Thus, substantially the whole substrate is moisturised by the liquid flavouring 75 in the package 70. The substrates 67 are preferably not initially coated with a wax containing the flavouring, since the flavouring from the reservoir soaks in to the substrate 67.

As a smoking article 60 is extracted from the package 70, the substrate 67 extends below the filter 64 and is pulled through the aperture 74. Excess liquid flavouring 75 may run off the substrate 67 as the smoking article 60 is lifted. The smoking article 60 may then be extended as described, introducing the flavouring 75 into the filter 64 and chamber 65.

FIGS. 15 a, 15b and 15c show a variant of the smoking article 60. FIG. 15a shows the smoking article 60 in a retracted state. The substrate 67 is outside of the filter 64, and is coiled into a spiral, within the diameter of the smoking article 60. FIG. 15b shows the smoking article 60 in a partially extended state. A portion of the substrate 67 has been pulled into the chamber 65, from the inside of the spiral. FIG. 15c shows the smoking article 60 in a fully extended state. The substrate 67 extends fully within the chamber 65 and filter 64. The enlarged section 68 abuts the filter 64.

FIGS. 16, 17 and 18 show a third embodiment of the flavour delivery system in a smoking article 80. Smoking article 80 comprises a variable length chamber defined in a sleeve 83 formed as a cylindrical tube, substantially as described in any of the embodiments above. The smoking article 80 comprises a tobacco unit 81, which may comprise a tobacco rod and filter as described with respect to FIGS. 1 to 3 or 5 to 6b, or only a tobacco rod as described with respect to FIG. 4. The chamber is defined between the tobacco unit 81 and a filter or stain binder 84. The filter or stain binder 84 will be referred to as filter 84.

The sleeve 83 is co-axial with the tobacco unit 81, and surrounds an end of the tobacco unit 81. The tobacco unit 81 is movable in a longitudinal direction within the sleeve 83, in order to vary the length of the chamber. The tobacco unit 81 is also rotatable relative to the sleeve 83 about a longitudinal axis. The relative rotation of the tobacco unit 81 and sleeve 83 releases flavouring into the chamber.

The extension and rotation of the sleeve are preferably independent. Alternatively, the rotation and extension may be linked. In particular, rotation of the sleeve relative to the tobacco unit may actuate extension of the smoking article, and/or rotation of the parts of the smoking article may actuate extension of the sleeve. Alternatively, the first part may be rotatable relative to the second part at a fixed longitudinal position, such that the first part is not moveable longitudinally relative to the second part. The smoking article may have no chamber such that the filter 84 abuts the tobacco unit, or the smoking article may have a chamber of a fixed length.

FIGS. 17 and 18 show capsules 89 containing a source of flavouring located within the extendable cigarette 80. The capsules are preferably micro-capsules. Preferably, the capsules 89 contain menthol flavouring, or may contain another flavouring or substance. The capsules 89 are affixed to an exterior surface of the tobacco unit 81, and preferably on a periphery of a filter attached to the source of smokable material, or on a periphery of the source of smokable material. The capsules 89 are on a portion of the tobacco unit 81 which is covered by the sleeve 83 over the whole range of extensions of the smoking article 80. Engaging elements, preferably in the form of grinding elements 88, are provided on an interior surface of the sleeve 83, preferably in the form of one or more protrusions. The engaging elements are configured to engage with the capsules to release the source of flavouring. The grinding elements 88 extend inwardly from the sleeve 83, and are preferably configured to crush the capsules 89 on rotation, to release flavouring from the capsules 89.

The grinding elements 88 preferably have a substantially pyramid shape, with the apex pointing radially inwardly. A plurality of grinding elements 88 extend in one or more longitudinally extending rows. Preferably, a plurality of rows of grinding elements 88 are equally spaced around the circumference of the sleeve 83. Preferably, there are four rows of grinding elements 88. Preferably, the grinding elements comprise a first engaging surface extending at a first angle to a radial directions, and preferably, the grinding elements comprises a second engaging surface extending at a second angle to a radial direction, and meeting the first engaging surface at the apex pointing radially inwardly. The grinding elements may comprise one or two sets of the first and second engaging surfaces, configured to break capsules on rotation by facing circumferentially, and/or configured to break capsules on longitudinal movement by facing axially.

Alternatively, the capsules 89 may be affixed to the interior surface of the sleeve 83, and the grinding elements 88 attached to the exterior surface of the tobacco unit 81.

The grinding elements have been described as breaking the capsules containing flavouring when rotated relative to the capsules. Alternatively, the grinding elements may be configured to break the capsules when there is relative longitudinal movement between the sleeve and tobacco unit. The grinding elements may be configured to break the capsules when there is relative longitudinal movement and rotation between the sleeve and tobacco unit.

FIGS. 19 to 21 show a fourth embodiment of the flavour delivery system in a smoking article 90. The smoking article 90 comprises a variable length chamber 95 defined in a sleeve 93 formed as a cylindrical tube, substantially as described in any of the embodiments above. The smoking article 90 comprises a tobacco unit 91, which may comprise a tobacco rod and filter as described with respect to FIGS. 1 to 3 or 5 to 6b, or only a tobacco rod as described with respect to FIG. 4. The chamber is defined between the tobacco unit 91 and a filter or stain binder 94. The filter or stain binder 94 will be referred to as filter 94.

The smoking article 90 comprises one or more compartments containing a source of flavouring. The compartments 99 are formed on an exterior surface of the sleeve 93. The compartments 99 extend radially beyond the exterior surface of the sleeve 99. A frangible membrane separates a compartment 99 from the chamber 95.

Preferably, there are two of said compartments on the sleeve 93. Preferably, the compartments 99 are located diametrically opposite to each other.

The sleeve 93 may further comprise a window 98. The window 98 is formed of a transparent material allowing viewing of the chamber 95. The window 98 allows the flavouring to be viewed when introduced into the chamber 95.

In order to dispense the flavouring, a radial force is applied to one or more of the compartments 99. The radial force applied to a radially outward facing surface of the compartment causes the frangible membrane to break. The source of the flavouring can then enter the chamber 95.

The flavouring can only be released into the chamber 95 when the smoking article 90 is in a sufficiently extended state. When the smoking article 90 is in a retracted state, the tobacco unit 91 covers the frangible membranes, and so the compartments 99 do not overlie the space of the chamber 95.

In a further embodiment of a flavour delivery system, one or more filter sections comprise capsules containing a source of flavouring. The capsules may be single capsules or double capsules, containing menthol or other substances such as water.

In a further embodiment, capsules containing a source of flavouring are in the chamber.

The smoking article of any embodiment is configured to release the source of flavouring, or allow the source of flavouring to be released, as the smoking article is extended. Alternatively, the release of flavouring may be independent of the extension of the smoking article.

The ventilation of the smoking article may depend on the extension. In particular, the ventilation may be varied as ventilation apertures in the tobacco unit and/or sleeve are covered or uncovered by the other of the tobacco unit and sleeve. The ventilation may affect the release of flavouring, or amount of flavourant exiting the mouth end of the smoking article. Therefore, the amount of flavouring may be variable, depending on the extension.

The filter of any embodiment may be impregnated with a flavouring, e.g. menthol. One or both of the first or second filters of any embodiment may be provided with threads impregnated with a source of flavouring. The threads may extend substantially longitudinally, or may not have a uniform orientation.

As used herein, the terms “flavour” and “flavourant” refer to materials which, where local regulations permit, may be used to create a desired taste or aroma in a product. They may include extracts e.g., licorice, hydrangea, Japanese white bark magnolia leaf, chamomile, fenugreek, clove, menthol, Japanese mint, aniseed, cinnamon, herb, wintergreen, cherry, berry, peach, apple, Dramboui, bourbon, scotch, whiskey, spearmint, peppermint, lavender, cardamon, celery, cascarilla, nutmeg, sandalwood, bergamot, geranium, honey essence, rose oil, vanilla, lemon oil, orange oil, cassia, caraway, cognac, jasmine, ylang-ylang, sage, fennel, piment, ginger, anise, coriander, coffee, or a mint oil from any species of the genus Mentha), flavour masking agents, bitterness receptor site blockers, receptor site enhancers, sweeteners e.g., sucralose, acesulfame potassium, aspartame, saccharine, cyclamates, lactose, sucrose, glucose, fructose, sorbitol, or mannitol, and other additives such aschlorophyll, minerals, botanicals, or breath freshening agents, as may be permitted by individual jurisdictions. They may be imitation, synthetic or natural ingredients or blends thereof. They may be in any suitable form, for example, oil, liquid, or powder.

In use, a smoking article according to any of the embodiments described is preferably packaged in a retracted state. In order to use, the user extends the smoking article by urging apart the sleeve and tobacco units in at least a longitudinal direction. The user may light the tobacco in a conventional manner. The length of the chamber may be used to vary the properties of the smoking article.

In order to extinguish the smoking article, the user may press the lit tobacco end against any suitable extinguishing surface. When the user holds the sleeve to extinguish the cigarette, the tobacco unit will be urged into the sleeve along the longitudinal axis until the remaining tobacco unit is covered by the sleeve. The burnt tobacco rod is therefore not visible in a side view of the extinguished smoking article.

The tobacco unit and mouthpiece filter of any embodiment may be provided separately in a package. In particular, for the embodiment of FIG. 4, the mouthpiece filter may initially be separate from the remainder of the extendable smoking article. The user may insert the filter longitudinally into the sleeve in order to complete the formation of the extendable smoking article. The restraining means described allows longitudinal insertion from the rearward end, and prevents the filter from subsequently being pulled out.

The filter may be individually wrapped or wrapped in a bundle prior to insertion, and in particular, may be wrapped in foil. The tipping element may be housed in the pack of smoking articles, preferably in a separate part of the pack to the smoking articles.

The smoking article of at least one embodiment has been described as comprising capsules. Alternatively, the source of flavouring may be located in any type of encapsulation or additive release component, of which a capsule is an example. The substance in the capsules which is selectively released has been described as a source of flavouring. The substance may be generally termed a smoke modifying agent or additive, of which a source of flavouring is an example.

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

The smoking article has been described as extendable. Alternatively, the smoking article may have a fixed length. The first part may only be rotatable relative to the second part. The flavouring may be released, or may be able to be released, by rotation of the sleeve without changing the length of the smoking article.

Alternatively, the smoking article may have a fixed length and the release of flavouring may be manually actuated without relative movement of first and second parts of the smoking article.

Claims

1. A smoking article comprising: a first part comprising a source of smokable material;a second part having at least an end configured to be movable relative to the first part; andthe smoking article further comprising a smoke modifying agent releasable into the smoking article.

2. The smoking article as claimed in claim 1 wherein the smoke modifying agent is a source of flavoring.

3. The smoking article as claimed in claim 1 wherein a surface of the first part facing the second part is provided with one of: a plurality of capsules containing the smoke modifying agent or one or more engaging features, wherein a surface of the second part facing the first part is provided with the other one of: a plurality of capsules containing the smoke modifying agent or one or more engaging features, andthe one or more engaging features are configured to engage with the capsules to release the smoke modifying agent as the first part moves relative to the second part.

4. The smoking article as claimed in claim 3 wherein the one or more engaging features are one or more protruding features configured to crush the capsules as the first part rotates relative to the second part.

5. The smoking article as claimed in claim 3 wherein the first part is slidable longitudinally relative to the second part to vary the length of a chamber defined by at least one of the first part and the second part.

6. The smoking article as claimed in claim 3 wherein the engaging features are configured to break the capsules on at least one of relative longitudinal movement and rotation between the first part and second part.

7. The smoking article as claimed in claim 6 wherein said longitudinal movement is independent of rotation about a longitudinal axis.

8. The smoking article as claimed in claim 3 wherein the plurality of capsules are located on a periphery of a filter of the first part, and the engaging features extend radially inwardly to crush the capsules against the filter.

9. The smoking article as claimed in claim 3 wherein the engaging features have a substantially pyramidal shape.

10. The smoking article as claimed in claim 1 further comprising one or more compartments formed on an exterior surface of one of the first part and second part, wherein the one or more compartments contain the smoke modifying agent, and the one or more compartments comprise a frangible membrane configured to allow release of the smoke modifying agent into the smoking article.

11. The smoking article as claimed in claim 10 comprising a chamber defined by at least one of the first part and second part, wherein the frangible membrane separates a said compartment from the chamber.

12. The smoking article as claimed in claim 11 wherein one of the first and second part further comprises a transparent window allowing viewing of the chamber.

13. The smoking article as claimed in claim 11 wherein one of the first part and second part is moveable between a retracted position covering said frangible membrane to inhibit breakage of the frangible membrane, and an extended position in which the one of the first and second part does not cover the frangible membrane such that the frangible membrane can be broken into the chamber.

14. The smoking article as claimed in claim 10 wherein an exterior surface of the compartment extends radially beyond the exterior surface of one of the first and second part on which the compartment is formed.

15. The smoking article as claimed in claim 1, wherein the second part comprises a sleeve.

16. The smoking article as claimed in claim 1, wherein the smoking article is an extendable smoking article, such that the length of a chamber defined by one of the first part and second part is variable.

17. The smoking article as claimed in claim 16 wherein the smoking article is configured to one of: release the smoke modifying agent, and allow the smoke modifying agent to be released, as the smoking article is extended.

18. The smoking article as claimed in claim 1 further comprising a flexible elongate substrate within a chamber defined by at least one of the first part and second part, wherein a first end of the substrate is moveable with the first part, and a second end of the substrate is moveable with the second part;wherein the substrate is configured to extend from a folded state to an unfolded state as the first part is moved relative to the second part, andthe smoke modifying agent is covered between two facing sections of the substrate in the folded state and uncovered as the facing sections move apart into the unfolded state.

19. The smoking article as claimed in claim 18 wherein the smoke modifying agent is a plurality of discrete smoke modifying agent units attached to both of the two facing faces of the substrate in the folded state, and smoke modifying agent units are configured to divide in the unfolded state into a first smoke modifying agent portion attached to one of the two facing sections of the substrate, and a second smoke modifying agent portion attached to the other of the two facing sections of the substrate.

20. The smoking article as claimed in claim 15 wherein at least one of: the first part comprises a first filter attached to the source of smokable material and the second part comprises a second filter connected to the sleeve.

21. The smoking article as claimed in claim 1 comprising a filter connected to the second part, and a flexible elongate substrate extending through said filter and at least partially coated with the smoke modifying agent; wherein a first end of the substrate is moveable with the first part, wherein the substrate is configured to be drawn through said filter as the first part is moved relative to the second part.

22. The smoking article as claimed in claim 21 wherein the substrate is coiled adjacent to said filter and outside of a chamber defined by at least one of the first part and second part.

23. The smoking article as claimed in claim 21 wherein the substrate is provided with an enlarged section having a lateral dimension larger than the substrate passable through a second filter, to prevent further movement of the substrate when the enlarged section abuts the second filter.

24. The smoking article as claimed in claim 21 wherein the substrate is a string coated with a wax containing the smoke modifying agent.

25. The smoking article as claimed in claim 1 wherein a chamber defined by at least one of the first part and second part comprises loose particles.

26. The smoking article as claimed in claim 1 wherein the second part comprises a sleeve, and the sleeve is formed as a cylindrical tube slidable around the source of smokable material.

27. The smoking article as claimed in claim 1 wherein the second part comprises a sleeve, and the sleeve is formed as a concertina in order to vary the length of the sleeve and a chamber defined by at least one of the first part and second part.

28. A package, comprising: a first compartment containing a plurality of smoking articles; anda second compartment containing a liquid smoke modifying agent; anda divider separating the first and second compartments, wherein the divider has a plurality of apertures,wherein a substrate of a smoking article extends through an aperture in the divider, and into the liquid smoke modifying agent in the second compartment.

29. (canceled)

30. The smoking article as claimed in claim 6 wherein rotation of the first part relative to the second part actuates extension of the smoking article.

31. The smoking article as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first part further comprises a sleeve and the second part comprises a filter moveable relative to the sleeve.

32. The smoking article as claimed in claim 31 wherein at least one of: the first part comprises a first filter attached to the source of smokable material and the second part comprises a second filter connected to the sleeve.

33. The smoking article as claimed in claim 1 wherein a chamber defined by one of the first part and second part comprises loose carbon particles.

34. The package of claim 28, wherein the smoking articles further comprise: a first part comprising a source of smokable material;a second part having at least an end configured to be movable relative to the first part;the smoking article further comprising a smoke modifying agent releasable into the smoking article;a filter connected to the second part, and a flexible elongate substrate extending through said filter and at least partially coated with the smoke modifying agent; andwherein a first end of the substrate is moveable with the first part, wherein the substrate is configured to be drawn through said filter as the first part is moved relative to the second part.