US20070251535A1 - Smoking article and method of making the same - Google Patents
Smoking article and method of making the same Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20070251535A1 US20070251535A1 US11/413,426 US41342606A US2007251535A1 US 20070251535 A1 US20070251535 A1 US 20070251535A1 US 41342606 A US41342606 A US 41342606A US 2007251535 A1 US2007251535 A1 US 2007251535A1
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- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- support
- article
- passage
- end structure
- smoking article
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
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Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A24—TOBACCO; CIGARS; CIGARETTES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES; SMOKERS' REQUISITES
- A24D—CIGARS; CIGARETTES; TOBACCO SMOKE FILTERS; MOUTHPIECES FOR CIGARS OR CIGARETTES; MANUFACTURE OF TOBACCO SMOKE FILTERS OR MOUTHPIECES
- A24D1/00—Cigars; Cigarettes
- A24D1/12—Cigars; Cigarettes with ash-retaining attachments, holders, or other equipment
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A24—TOBACCO; CIGARS; CIGARETTES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES; SMOKERS' REQUISITES
- A24F—SMOKERS' REQUISITES; MATCH BOXES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES
- A24F13/00—Appliances for smoking cigars or cigarettes
- A24F13/16—Safety sleeves for cigars or cigarettes preventing damage by glowing ash
Definitions
- the invention relates generally to a smoking article.
- Smoking articles such as cigarettes and cigars develop an ash as the smokable material in the cigarettes or cigars combusts.
- the smokable material is typically tobacco encased in a paper or natural leaf wrapper.
- the ash increases in length as combustion proceeds and is normally dislodged by tapping the smoking article. If the ash is not removed by tapping, the ash will normally break off under its own weight after growing to a certain length.
- the ash is usually discharged into the air which is unsanitary.
- the ash, as well as sparks, from a smoking article held by a smoker can be blown into the face of the smoker or the faces of persons around the smoker.
- a variety of devices have been developed to contain the ash and sparks. These containing devices surround all or most of a smoking article or are designed to lie underneath the smoking article. The ash in a containing device can be disposed of at the smoker's convenience.
- the smoking article comprises means defining an elongated passage having a first longitudinal end and an opposed second longitudinal end, a mass of smokable material in the passage, and a support for supporting ash generated by combustion of the smokable material. At least one part of the support, which may be referred to as an embedded support part, is located in the mass of smokable material.
- the mass of smokable material and the embedded support part will typically extend along at least the major part of the distance between the first longitudinal end and the second longitudinal end of the passage.
- the embedded support part can be elongated and the passage may have a central longitudinal axis extending in a direction from the first longitudinal end to the second longitudinal end thereof.
- the embedded support part can here be positioned at least approximately on such central longitudinal axis.
- the embedded support part may comprise wire or wire-like material. It is preferred for the wire or wire-like material to have a gauge of about 18 to about 25.
- the support may have another part located externally of the passage and such external part of the support can be provided with an abutment or end structure projecting radially of the embedded support part.
- the abutment projects radially of the embedded support part to two substantially diametrically opposed sides of the same.
- the abutment may abut one of the longitudinal ends of the passage to confine ash generated by combustion of the smokable material.
- the abutment can be provided with at least one symbol and/or with a decorative item.
- the abutment may be formed with a logo, an identifier (i.d.), a charm or an ornamental stone.
- the abutment can include an insulating body and/or a non-insulating body, and the abutment may be situated adjacent one of the longitudinal ends of the passage. If the abutment includes both an insulating body and a non-insulating body, it is preferred for the insulating body to be sandwiched between the non-insulating body and the adjacent longitudinal end of the passage.
- the abutment can project radially of the passage so that the abutment has the ability to maintain ash generated by combustion of the smokable material out of contact with a surface on which the smoking article is placed.
- the method comprises the step of forming a product which includes an elongated passage containing a mass of smokable material and having a first longitudinal end and an opposed second longitudinal end.
- the method additionally comprises the steps of providing a support for ash generated by combustion of the smokable material, and positioning at least one part of the support, which may again be referred to as an embedded support part, in the mass of smokable material during or after the forming step.
- the forming step and the positioning step can include arranging the mass and the embedded support part so that both the mass and the embedded support part extend along at least the major part of the distance between the first longitudinal end and the second longitudinal end of the passage.
- the embedded support part can be elongated and the passage may have a central longitudinal axis extending in a direction from the first longitudinal end to the second longitudinal end thereof.
- the positioning step can here comprise locating the embedded support part at least approximately on the central longitudinal axis.
- the positioning step may involve pushing the embedded support part into the mass of smokable material through one of the longitudinal ends of the passage.
- the method can further comprise the step of providing another part of the support with an abutment or end structure located externally of the passage and projecting radially of the embedded support part.
- the positioning step may then include abutting the abutment with one of the longitudinal ends of the passage to confine ash generated by combustion of the smokable material.
- the step of providing another part of the support with an abutment is preferably performed in such a manner that the abutment projects radially of the embedded part of the support to two substantially diametrically opposite sides of the same.
- the step of providing another part of the support with an abutment can be carried out so that the abutment is located externally, and projects radially, of the passage thereby enabling the abutment to maintain ash generated by combustion of the smokable material out of contact with a surface on which the smoking article is placed.
- the method can also comprise the step of providing the abutment with at least one symbol and/or the step of providing the abutment with a decorative item.
- the abutment may include an insulating body and a non-insulating body, and the abutment can be disposed adjacent one of the longitudinal ends of the passage.
- the method may further comprise the step of sandwiching the insulating body between the non-insulating body and the adjacent longitudinal end of the passage.
- FIG. 1 is a longitudinal sectional view of one embodiment of a smoking article according to the invention.
- FIG. 2 is similar to FIG. 1 but shows another embodiment of a smoking article in accordance with the invention.
- FIG. 3 is similar to FIG. 1 but illustrates an additional embodiment of a smoking article according to the invention.
- FIG. 4 is similar to FIG. 1 but shows a further embodiment of a smoking article in accordance with the invention.
- FIG. 5 is similar to FIG. 1 but illustrates one more embodiment of a smoking article according to the invention.
- FIG. 6 is similar to FIG. 1 but shows yet another embodiment of a smoking article in accordance with the invention.
- FIG. 7 is similar to FIG. 1 but illustrates an additional embodiment of a smoking article according to the invention.
- FIG. 8 is a view of an abutment constituting part of the smoking article of FIG. 4 as seen in the direction of the arrow A of FIG. 4 .
- FIG. 9 is a view of an abutment constituting part of the smoking article of FIG. 6 as seen in the direction of the arrow B of FIG. 6 .
- FIG. 10 is a view of an abutment constituting part of the smoking article of FIG. 7 as seen in the direction of the arrow C of FIG. 7 .
- FIG. 11 is a sectional view of an ashtray showing the smoking article of FIG. 4 resting on the ashtray.
- a smoking article in accordance with the invention is identified by the numeral 10 .
- the smoking article 10 comprises a smoking product 12 which is here assumed to be a cigarette but could also be a cigar, stogy, cigarillo or similar item. Accordingly, the composition of the wrapper or inclusion of, for example, a filter, are not relevant to the invention.
- the smoking product 12 includes a wrapper which is preferably cigarette paper and is shaped into the form of a hollow, elongated cylinder 14 of generally circular cross section.
- the cylinder 14 constitutes a means for defining an elongated passage 16
- the cylinder 14 and passage 16 have a common longitudinal end 18 a and a common opposite longitudinal end 18 b .
- the cylinder 14 and passage 16 are open at both longitudinal ends 18 a , 18 b .
- the cylinder 14 and the passage 16 additionally have a common, central longitudinal axis 20 which extends in a direction from the longitudinal end 18 a to the longitudinal end 18 b and also constitutes the central longitudinal axis of the smoking product 12 .
- the smoking product 12 further includes a conventional filter 22 which is bonded to and closes the longitudinal end 18 b of the cylinder 14 and passage 16 .
- the filter 22 is in the form of a cylinder of circular cross section and is coaxial with the cylinder 14 .
- a mass of smokable material 24 is accommodated in the passage 16 of the cylinder 14 , and the mass of smokable material 24 generally has the shape of a cylinder of circular cross section.
- the mass of smokable material 24 has a cross-sectional area which substantially equals the internal cross-sectional area of the cylinder 14 , i.e., which substantially equals the cross-sectional area of the passage 16 , and the mass of smokable material 24 extends from the longitudinal end 18 a to the longitudinal end 18 b of the cylinder 14 and passage 16 .
- the smokable material 24 is here assumed to be tobacco but could be another smokable substance as well.
- a support or carrier 26 for supporting ash generated by combustion of the smokable material 24 is embedded in the mass of smokable material 24 .
- the support 26 is elongated and straight and has a cross-sectional area which is advantageously a minor fraction of the cross-sectional area of the passage 16 .
- the support 26 runs lengthwise of the cylinder 14 and passage 16 and extends from the longitudinal end 18 a to the longitudinal end 18 b of the cylinder 14 and passage 16 .
- the support 26 is preferably disposed on, or approximately on, the central longitudinal axis 20 of the smoking product 12 .
- the support 26 allows a visible ash of substantial length to develop as the smoking product 12 is smoked.
- the ash is conspicuous inasmuch as it is not confined inside a receptacle. The ash may be discarded in an appropriate manner once a smoker has finished smoking the smoking product 12 and the support 26 can thereafter be reused.
- the smoking article 10 can be made by providing a section of wire as the support 26 . If the smoking product 12 was manufactured previously, the support 26 is then aligned, at least approximately, with the central longitudinal axis 20 of the smoking product 12 . The support 26 is thereupon pushed into the mass of smokable material 24 via the longitudinal end 18 a of the cylinder 14 and passage 16 while maintaining the support 26 at least approximately on the central longitudinal axis 20 of the smoking product 12 . On the other hand, if the smoking product 12 is in the process of being manufactured, the support 26 is placed, at least approximately, on the central longitudinal axis 20 of the smoking product 12 . Thereafter, the mass of smokable material 24 is packed around the support 26 .
- FIG. 2 the same reference numerals as in FIG. 1 , plus 100 , are used to denote similar elements.
- the smoking article 110 of FIG. 2 differs from that of FIG. 1 primarily in that the support 126 of FIG. 2 includes one part 126 a which is embedded in the mass of smokable material 124 and another part 126 b which projects from and is located externally of the cylinder 114 and passage 116 .
- the embedded support part 126 a is straight and preferably disposed on, or approximately on, the central longitudinal axis 120 of the smoking product 112 .
- the external or projecting support part 126 b is provided with an abutment or end structure 128 which is situated externally of the cylinder 114 and passage 116 and projects radially to one side of the embedded support part 126 a .
- the abutment 128 can also project radially to one side of the cylinder 114 and passage 116 as illustrated.
- the abutment 128 is situated adjacent to the longitudinal end 118 a of the cylinder 114 and passage 116 , and the abutment 128 preferably abuts the longitudinal end 118 a so that the abutment 128 can confine and maintain an ash generated by combustion of the smokable material 124 .
- the abutment 128 which is integral with the support 126 , is shaped like a coil and is produced by coiling the external support part 126 b .
- the length of the embedded support part 126 a can be adjusted to smoking products 112 of different length by coiling the external support part 126 b more or partially uncoiling the external support part 126 b.
- the smoking article 110 can be made by providing a section of wire or wire-like material as the support 126 and coiling the external support part 126 b so that the embedded support part 126 a has a length at least equal to that of the cylinder 114 and passage 116 . If the smoking product 112 is already in existence, the embedded support part 126 a is then aligned, at least approximately, with the central longitudinal axis 120 of the smoking product 112 . The embedded support part 126 a is thereupon pushed into the mass of smokable material 124 through the longitudinal end 118 a of the tube 114 and passage 116 while maintaining the embedded support part 126 a at least approximately on the central longitudinal axis 120 of the smoking product 112 .
- the embedded support part 126 a is placed, at least approximately, on the central longitudinal axis 120 of the smoking product 112 . Thereafter, the mass of smokable material 124 is packed around the embedded support part 126 a.
- the external support part 126 b may be coiled further or partially uncoiled, if necessary, to bring the coil 128 into abutment with the longitudinal end 118 a of the cylinder 114 and passage 116 .
- the coil 128 may also be adjusted, if necessary, so as to project radially of the cylinder 114 and passage 116 .
- the external support part 126 b is coiled prior to confinement of the embedded support part 126 a in the mass of smokable material 124 .
- FIG. 3 the same reference numerals as in FIG. 2 , plus 100 , are used to identify similar elements.
- the smoking article 210 of FIG. 3 differs from the smoking article 110 of FIG. 2 primarily in the configuration of the abutment or end structure 228 of the smoking article 210 .
- the abutment 228 which is again integral with the support 226 , comprises two lobes 228 a and 228 b which project radially of the embedded part 226 a of the support 226 to two diametrically opposite sides of the embedded part 226 a .
- the lobes 228 a , 228 b can also project radially of the cylinder 214 and passage 216 to two diametrically opposite sides of the cylinder 214 and passage 216 .
- the lobes 228 a , 228 b adjoin the longitudinal end 218 a of the cylinder 214 and passage 216 , and the lobes 228 a , 228 b advantageously abut the longitudinal end 218 a thereby enabling the lobes 228 a , 228 b to confine and maintain an ash generated by combustion of the smokable material 214 .
- the lobes 228 a , 228 b can be produced by bending and/or twisting the external or projecting support part 226 b appropriately.
- the embedded support part 226 a can be adjusted to smoking products 212 of different length by increasing or decreasing the sizes of the lobes 228 a , 228 b.
- the smoking article 210 of FIG. 3 can be made in a manner similar to that described for the smoking article 110 of FIG. 2 .
- the manufacture of the smoking article 210 differs from the manufacture of the smoking article 110 in that the external support part 226 b of the smoking article 210 will be bent and/or twisted rather than coiled like the external support part 126 b of the smoking article 110 .
- FIG. 4 the same reference numerals as in FIG. 3 , plus 100 , signify similar elements.
- the smoking article 310 of FIG. 4 differs from the smoking article 210 of FIG. 3 mainly in the configuration of the external or projecting support part 326 b of the smoking article 310 and the configuration of the abutment or end structure 328 of the smoking article 310 .
- the external or projecting support part 326 b is a straight extension of the embedded support part 326 a , and the end of the external support part 326 b remote from the longitudinal end 318 a of the cylinder 314 and passage 316 can be rounded or pointed.
- the abutment 328 includes a flat plate 330 arranged normal to the embedded support part 326 a , and the plate has a central opening which extends through the plate 330 .
- the external support part 326 b passes through the opening in the flat plate 330 , and the plate 330 is a friction fit on the external support part 326 b .
- the flat plate 330 is advantageously made of a heat-resistant insulating material.
- the flat plate 330 is located adjacent to the longitudinal end 318 a of the cylinder 314 and passage 316 , and the flat plate 330 favorably abuts the longitudinal 318 a so as to permit the flat plate 330 to confine and maintain an ash generated by combustion of the smokable material 324 .
- the flat plate 330 projects radially of the embedded support part 326 a to all sides of the embedded support part 326 a and is sufficiently large to cover the longitudinal end 318 a of the cylinder 314 and passage 316 .
- the flat plate 330 may, but need not, project radially of the cylinder 314 and passage 316 as shown.
- the flat plate 330 has a major surface which faces away from the longitudinal end 318 a of the cylinder 314 and passage 316 , and a pair of lobes 332 a and 332 b is bonded to such major surface of the plate 330 .
- the flat plate 330 and lobes 332 a , 332 b resemble the mounting used to support the ornamental part of an earring.
- a curved plate 334 constituting a segment of a cylinder of circular cross section is mounted on the lobes 332 a , 332 b .
- the curved plate 334 has a concave major surface and a convex major surface, and the lobes 332 a , 332 b are bonded to the concave major surface of the curved plate 334 .
- the lobes 332 a , 332 b and the curved plate 334 can be metallic.
- the curved plate 334 can project radially of the cylinder 314 and passage 316 to two diametrically opposite sides of the cylinder 314 and passage 316 as shown.
- the embedded support part 326 a may be adjusted to smoking products 312 of different length by shifting the abutment 328 along the support 326 .
- the smoking article 310 of FIG. 4 can be made in a manner similar to that described for the smoking article 110 of FIG. 2 .
- the manufacture of the smoking article 310 differs from that of the smoking article 110 in that the smoking article 110 is provided with the abutment 128 by shaping the external support part 126 b of the smoking article 110 while the smoking article 310 is provided with the abutment 328 by sliding the latter onto the external support part 326 b of the smoking article 310 .
- the abutment 328 of the smoking article 310 can be slid onto the external support 326 b before or after the embedded support part 326 a of the smoking article 310 is confined in the mass of smokable material 324 .
- the smoking article 410 of FIG. 5 differs from the smoking article 310 of FIG. 4 primarily in the design of the abutment or end structure 428 of the smoking article 410 .
- the abutment 428 includes a block or body 430 which is favorably made of a heat-resistant insulating material.
- the block 430 has a surface which faces the longitudinal end 418 a of the cylinder 414 and passage 416 , and a channel located centrally of the block 430 extends from such surface into and partway through the block 430 .
- the channel receives the straight external support part 426 b , and the block 430 is a friction fit on the external support part 426 b.
- the block 430 is disposed adjacent to the longitudinal end 418 a of the cylinder 414 and passage 416 , and the block 430 preferably abuts the longitudinal end 418 a to thereby allow the block 430 to confine and maintain an ash generated by combustion of the smokable material 424 .
- the block 430 projects radially of the embedded support part 426 a in all directions and is sufficiently large to cover the longitudinal end 418 a of the cylinder 414 and passage 416 . As illustrated, the block 430 may also project radially of the cylinder 414 and passage 416 to two diametrically opposite sides of the cylinder 414 and passage 416 .
- the abutment 428 further includes a U-shaped member 436 having a pair of generally parallel legs 436 a and a crosspiece 436 b which bridges the legs 436 a .
- the block 430 is designed to be received between the legs 436 a of the U-shaped member 436 with a friction fit so that the block 430 can firmly hold the U-shaped member 436 .
- the crosspiece 436 b of the U-shaped member 436 has a surface which faces away from the block 430 when the U-shaped member 436 is mounted on the block 430 , and a holder 438 is bonded to such major surface of the crosspiece 436 b .
- the holder 438 can resemble the setting used in a ring to support a gem, and an ornamental stone or gem 440 is mounted in the holder 438 .
- the U-shaped member 436 and the holder 438 can be metallic.
- the embedded support part 426 a can be adjusted to smoking products 412 of different length by shifting the abutment 428 along the support 426 .
- the smoking article 410 of FIG. 5 can be made in a manner similar to the smoking article 310 of FIG. 4 .
- the production of the smoking article 410 involves an operation not found in the production of the smoking article 310 . This is the operation of sliding the U-shaped member 436 onto the block 430 .
- the U-shaped member 436 can be slid onto the block 430 before or after the block 430 is positioned on the external support part 426 b of the smoking article 410 .
- the smoking article 510 of FIG. 6 differs from the smoking article 410 of FIG. 5 mainly in the configuration of the external support part 526 b of the smoking article 510 and the configuration of the abutment or end structure 528 of the smoking article 510 .
- the abutment 528 comprises a flat plate 530 which is normal to the embedded support part 526 a and has a major surface facing the longitudinal end 518 a of the cylinder 514 and passage 516 .
- Two bearing members on opposite sides of the plane of FIG. 6 and not visible in the drawings are mounted on this major surface of the flat plate 530 .
- the bearing members carry a pivot 542 , and two jaws 544 a and 544 b are pivotal between an open position and a closed position on the pivot 542 .
- the jaws 544 a , 544 b are biased towards the closed position by a non-illustrated spring.
- the external support part 526 b is flat and the jaws 544 a , 544 b clamp the flat external part 526 b between them.
- the jaws 544 a , 544 b may have flat end surfaces which face the longitudinal end 518 a of the cylinder 514 and passage 516 , and the flat end surfaces of the jaws 544 a , 544 b preferably abut the longitudinal end 518 so as to allow the jaws 544 a , 544 b to confine and maintain an ash generated by combustion of the smokable material 524 .
- the flat plate 530 projects radially of the embedded support part 526 a and can also project radially of the cylinder 514 and passage 516 .
- the jaws 544 a , 544 b are advantageously composed of a heat-resistant insulating material.
- the flat plate 530 , the pivot 542 and the bearings which support the pivot 542 can be metallic.
- the embedded support part 526 a can be adjusted to smoking products 512 of different length by shifting the position of the jaws 544 a , 544 b on the external support part 526 b.
- the smoking article 510 of FIG. 6 can be made in a manner similar to the smoking article 310 of FIG.4 .
- the abutment 328 of the smoking article 310 of FIG. 4 is mounted on the support 326 by sliding the abutment 328 onto the external support part 326 b
- the abutment 528 of the smoking article 510 of FIG. 6 is mounted on the support 526 by clamping the external support part 526 b between the jaws 544 a , 544 b.
- FIG. 7 the same reference numerals as in FIG. 6 , plus 100 , are used to identify similar elements.
- the smoking article 610 of FIG. 7 differs from the smoking article 510 of FIG. 6 mainly in the design of the abutment 628 of the smoking article 610 . Furthermore, while the external support part 626 b of FIG. 7 could be flat like the external support part 526 b of FIG. 6 , it need not be.
- the abutment 628 of FIG. 7 includes a block or body 630 made of a fire-resistant insulating material.
- the insulating block 630 has a surface which faces the longitudinal end 618 a of the cylinder 614 and passage 616 , and a channel located centrally of the insulating block 630 extends from such surface into and partway through the block 630 .
- the channel receives the straight external support part 626 b , and the insulating block 630 is a friction fit on the external support part 626 b.
- the insulating block 630 is disposed adjacent to the longitudinal end 618 a of the cylinder 614 and passage 616 , and the insulating block 630 preferably abuts the longitudinal end 618 to thereby enable the insulating block 630 to confine and maintain an ash generated by combustion of the smokable material 624 .
- the insulating block 630 projects radially of the embedded part 626 a of the support 626 in all directions and is sufficiently large to cover the longitudinal end 618 a of the cylinder 614 and passage 616 .
- the insulating block 630 has a surface which faces away from the longitudinal end 618 a of the cylinder 614 and passage 616 , and the abutment 628 further includes a block or body 646 of non-insulating material, e.g., metal, which is bonded to such surface of the insulating block 630 . Accordingly, when the insulating block 630 abuts the longitudinal end 618 a of the cylinder 614 and passage 616 , the insulating block 630 is sandwiched between the non-insulating block 646 and the longitudinal end 618 a .
- non-insulating material e.g., metal
- non-insulating block 646 is shown as being the same size as the insulating block 630 , the non-insulating block 646 can be smaller or larger than the insulating block 630 .
- the insulating block 630 allows the non-insulating block 646 to remain relatively cool during combustion of the smokable material 624 .
- both the insulating block 630 and the non-insulating block 646 project radially to two diametrically opposite sides of the cylinder 614 and passage 616 .
- the embedded support part 626 a can be adjusted to smoking products 612 of different length by shifting the abutment 628 along the support 626 .
- the smoking article 610 of FIG. 7 can be made in a manner similar to the smoking article 310 of FIG. 4 .
- the curved plate 334 of the abutment 328 forming part of the smoking article 310 of FIG. 4 has a major surface which faces away from the longitudinal end 318 a of the cylinder 314 and passage 316 . As depicted in FIG. 8 , this major surface of the curved plate 334 is provided with a logo.
- the flat plate 530 of the abutment 528 constituting part of the smoking article 510 of FIG. 6 likewise has a major surface which faces away from the longitudinal end 518 a of the cylinder 514 and passage 516 .
- FIG. 9 shows that such major surface of the flat plate 530 is provided with an i.d.
- the non-insulating block 646 of the abutment 628 forming part of the smoking article 610 of FIG. 7 also has a major surface which faces away from the longitudinal end 618 a of the cylinder 614 and passage 616 . As illustrated in FIG. 10 , this major surface of the non-insulating block 646 is provided with a charm.
- the curved plate 334 of FIG. 4 could be provided with an i.d. or charm instead of a logo; that the flat plate 530 of FIG. 6 could be provided with a logo or charm instead of an i.d.; and that the non-insulating block 646 of FIG. 7 could be provided with a logo or i.d. instead of a charm.
- the symbols and expressions which can be applied to the curved plate 334 , the flat plate 530 and the non-insulating block 646 are not limited to a logo, i.d. or charm.
- the coil 128 of FIG. 2 can project radially of the cylinder 114 and passage 116 ; the lobes 228 a , 228 b of FIG. 3 can project radially of the cylinder 214 and passage 216 ; the curved plate 334 of FIG. 4 can project radially of the cylinder 314 and passage 316 ; the block 430 of FIG. 5 can project radially of the cylinder 414 and passage 416 ; the flat plate 530 of FIG. 6 can project radially of the cylinder 514 and passage 516 ; and one or both of the blocks 630 , 646 of FIG. 7 can project radially of the cylinder 614 and passage 616 .
- Such radial projection has the advantage of allowing an ash generated by combustion of the smokable material 24 , 124 , 224 , 324 , 424 , 524 , 624 to be maintained out of contact with a surface on which the respective smoking article 10 , 110 , 210 , 310 , 410 , 510 , 610 is placed.
- FIG. 11 uses the smoking article 310 of FIG. 4 as an example.
- the smoking article 310 has been placed in an ashtray 50 having a bottom 52 as well as a rim 54 which extends upward from the bottom 52 and runs peripherally of the latter.
- the filter 322 of the smoking article 310 rests on the rim 54 of the ashtray 50 while the curved plate 334 of the smoking article 310 rests on the bottom 52 of the ashtray 50 .
- An ash generated by combustion of the smokable material 324 of the smoking article 310 is thus kept out of contact with the ashtray 50 .
- the support 26 , 126 , 226 , 326 , 426 , 526 , 626 can consist of wire or wire-like material having a circular cross section or any other cross section.
- the support 26 , 126 , 226 , 326 , 426 , 526 , 626 is advantageously fire-resistant and can, for example, be composed of metal or a man-made fiber such as that sold under the trademark Kevlar®.
- a currently preferred metal for the support 26 , 126 , 226 , 326 , 426 , 526 , 626 is surgical stainless steel.
- the support 26 , 126 , 226 , 326 , 426 , 526 , 626 favorably has a gauge of about 18 to about 25.
Landscapes
- Cigarettes, Filters, And Manufacturing Of Filters (AREA)
Abstract
A cigarette has a wire running lengthwise through the tobacco. A section of the wire may project from the end of the cigarette to be lit, and such section can be provided with an abutment which contacts this end of the cigarette.
Description
- 1. Field of the Invention
- The invention relates generally to a smoking article.
- 2. Description of the Prior Art
- Smoking articles such as cigarettes and cigars develop an ash as the smokable material in the cigarettes or cigars combusts. The smokable material is typically tobacco encased in a paper or natural leaf wrapper.
- The ash increases in length as combustion proceeds and is normally dislodged by tapping the smoking article. If the ash is not removed by tapping, the ash will normally break off under its own weight after growing to a certain length.
- Where no receptacle for the ash is available, e.g., outdoors, the ash is usually discharged into the air which is unsanitary. Moreover, in the presence of a wind or a draft, the ash, as well as sparks, from a smoking article held by a smoker can be blown into the face of the smoker or the faces of persons around the smoker.
- To avoid these undesirable situations, a variety of devices have been developed to contain the ash and sparks. These containing devices surround all or most of a smoking article or are designed to lie underneath the smoking article. The ash in a containing device can be disposed of at the smoker's convenience.
- As a novelty, some smokers attempt to maintain the ash of a smoking article for an extended period of time when conditions permit. However, as noted earlier, the ash normally falls off under its own weight after attaining a certain length. Thus, for those smokers interested in a long visible and conspicuous ash, it would be desirable to have a smoking article capable of developing such an ash.
- One aspect of the invention resides in a smoking article. The smoking article comprises means defining an elongated passage having a first longitudinal end and an opposed second longitudinal end, a mass of smokable material in the passage, and a support for supporting ash generated by combustion of the smokable material. At least one part of the support, which may be referred to as an embedded support part, is located in the mass of smokable material.
- The mass of smokable material and the embedded support part will typically extend along at least the major part of the distance between the first longitudinal end and the second longitudinal end of the passage.
- The embedded support part can be elongated and the passage may have a central longitudinal axis extending in a direction from the first longitudinal end to the second longitudinal end thereof. The embedded support part can here be positioned at least approximately on such central longitudinal axis.
- The embedded support part may comprise wire or wire-like material. It is preferred for the wire or wire-like material to have a gauge of about 18 to about 25.
- The support may have another part located externally of the passage and such external part of the support can be provided with an abutment or end structure projecting radially of the embedded support part. Preferably, the abutment projects radially of the embedded support part to two substantially diametrically opposed sides of the same. The abutment may abut one of the longitudinal ends of the passage to confine ash generated by combustion of the smokable material. The abutment can be provided with at least one symbol and/or with a decorative item. For instance, the abutment may be formed with a logo, an identifier (i.d.), a charm or an ornamental stone.
- The abutment can include an insulating body and/or a non-insulating body, and the abutment may be situated adjacent one of the longitudinal ends of the passage. If the abutment includes both an insulating body and a non-insulating body, it is preferred for the insulating body to be sandwiched between the non-insulating body and the adjacent longitudinal end of the passage.
- The abutment can project radially of the passage so that the abutment has the ability to maintain ash generated by combustion of the smokable material out of contact with a surface on which the smoking article is placed.
- Another aspect of the invention resides in a method of making a smoking article. The method comprises the step of forming a product which includes an elongated passage containing a mass of smokable material and having a first longitudinal end and an opposed second longitudinal end. The method additionally comprises the steps of providing a support for ash generated by combustion of the smokable material, and positioning at least one part of the support, which may again be referred to as an embedded support part, in the mass of smokable material during or after the forming step.
- The forming step and the positioning step can include arranging the mass and the embedded support part so that both the mass and the embedded support part extend along at least the major part of the distance between the first longitudinal end and the second longitudinal end of the passage.
- As mentioned previously, the embedded support part can be elongated and the passage may have a central longitudinal axis extending in a direction from the first longitudinal end to the second longitudinal end thereof. The positioning step can here comprise locating the embedded support part at least approximately on the central longitudinal axis.
- If the positioning step is carried out after the forming step, the positioning step may involve pushing the embedded support part into the mass of smokable material through one of the longitudinal ends of the passage.
- The method can further comprise the step of providing another part of the support with an abutment or end structure located externally of the passage and projecting radially of the embedded support part. The positioning step may then include abutting the abutment with one of the longitudinal ends of the passage to confine ash generated by combustion of the smokable material. The step of providing another part of the support with an abutment is preferably performed in such a manner that the abutment projects radially of the embedded part of the support to two substantially diametrically opposite sides of the same.
- The step of providing another part of the support with an abutment can be carried out so that the abutment is located externally, and projects radially, of the passage thereby enabling the abutment to maintain ash generated by combustion of the smokable material out of contact with a surface on which the smoking article is placed.
- The method can also comprise the step of providing the abutment with at least one symbol and/or the step of providing the abutment with a decorative item.
- As indicated earlier, the abutment may include an insulating body and a non-insulating body, and the abutment can be disposed adjacent one of the longitudinal ends of the passage. Under such circumstances, the method may further comprise the step of sandwiching the insulating body between the non-insulating body and the adjacent longitudinal end of the passage.
- Additional features and advantages of the invention will be forthcoming from the following detailed description of certain specific embodiments when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawing.
-
FIG. 1 is a longitudinal sectional view of one embodiment of a smoking article according to the invention. -
FIG. 2 is similar toFIG. 1 but shows another embodiment of a smoking article in accordance with the invention. -
FIG. 3 is similar toFIG. 1 but illustrates an additional embodiment of a smoking article according to the invention. -
FIG. 4 is similar toFIG. 1 but shows a further embodiment of a smoking article in accordance with the invention. -
FIG. 5 is similar toFIG. 1 but illustrates one more embodiment of a smoking article according to the invention. -
FIG. 6 is similar toFIG. 1 but shows yet another embodiment of a smoking article in accordance with the invention. -
FIG. 7 is similar toFIG. 1 but illustrates an additional embodiment of a smoking article according to the invention. -
FIG. 8 is a view of an abutment constituting part of the smoking article ofFIG. 4 as seen in the direction of the arrow A ofFIG. 4 . -
FIG. 9 is a view of an abutment constituting part of the smoking article ofFIG. 6 as seen in the direction of the arrow B ofFIG. 6 . -
FIG. 10 is a view of an abutment constituting part of the smoking article ofFIG. 7 as seen in the direction of the arrow C ofFIG. 7 . -
FIG. 11 is a sectional view of an ashtray showing the smoking article ofFIG. 4 resting on the ashtray. - Referring to
FIG. 1 , a smoking article in accordance with the invention is identified by thenumeral 10. Thesmoking article 10 comprises a smoking product 12 which is here assumed to be a cigarette but could also be a cigar, stogy, cigarillo or similar item. Accordingly, the composition of the wrapper or inclusion of, for example, a filter, are not relevant to the invention. - The smoking product 12 includes a wrapper which is preferably cigarette paper and is shaped into the form of a hollow,
elongated cylinder 14 of generally circular cross section. Thecylinder 14 constitutes a means for defining anelongated passage 16, and thecylinder 14 andpassage 16 have a common longitudinal end 18 a and a common opposite longitudinal end 18 b. Thecylinder 14 andpassage 16 are open at both longitudinal ends 18 a,18 b. Thecylinder 14 and thepassage 16 additionally have a common, centrallongitudinal axis 20 which extends in a direction from the longitudinal end 18 a to the longitudinal end 18 b and also constitutes the central longitudinal axis of the smoking product 12. - The smoking product 12 further includes a
conventional filter 22 which is bonded to and closes the longitudinal end 18 b of thecylinder 14 andpassage 16. Thefilter 22 is in the form of a cylinder of circular cross section and is coaxial with thecylinder 14. - A mass of
smokable material 24 is accommodated in thepassage 16 of thecylinder 14, and the mass ofsmokable material 24 generally has the shape of a cylinder of circular cross section. The mass ofsmokable material 24 has a cross-sectional area which substantially equals the internal cross-sectional area of thecylinder 14, i.e., which substantially equals the cross-sectional area of thepassage 16, and the mass ofsmokable material 24 extends from the longitudinal end 18 a to the longitudinal end 18 b of thecylinder 14 andpassage 16. Thesmokable material 24 is here assumed to be tobacco but could be another smokable substance as well. - A support or
carrier 26 for supporting ash generated by combustion of thesmokable material 24 is embedded in the mass ofsmokable material 24. Thesupport 26 is elongated and straight and has a cross-sectional area which is advantageously a minor fraction of the cross-sectional area of thepassage 16. Thesupport 26 runs lengthwise of thecylinder 14 andpassage 16 and extends from the longitudinal end 18 a to the longitudinal end 18 b of thecylinder 14 andpassage 16. Thesupport 26 is preferably disposed on, or approximately on, the centrallongitudinal axis 20 of the smoking product 12. - The
support 26 allows a visible ash of substantial length to develop as the smoking product 12 is smoked. The ash is conspicuous inasmuch as it is not confined inside a receptacle. The ash may be discarded in an appropriate manner once a smoker has finished smoking the smoking product 12 and thesupport 26 can thereafter be reused. - The
smoking article 10 can be made by providing a section of wire as thesupport 26. If the smoking product 12 was manufactured previously, thesupport 26 is then aligned, at least approximately, with the centrallongitudinal axis 20 of the smoking product 12. Thesupport 26 is thereupon pushed into the mass ofsmokable material 24 via the longitudinal end 18 a of thecylinder 14 andpassage 16 while maintaining thesupport 26 at least approximately on the centrallongitudinal axis 20 of the smoking product 12. On the other hand, if the smoking product 12 is in the process of being manufactured, thesupport 26 is placed, at least approximately, on the centrallongitudinal axis 20 of the smoking product 12. Thereafter, the mass ofsmokable material 24 is packed around thesupport 26. - Considering
FIG. 2 , the same reference numerals as inFIG. 1 , plus 100, are used to denote similar elements. - The
smoking article 110 ofFIG. 2 differs from that ofFIG. 1 primarily in that thesupport 126 ofFIG. 2 includes onepart 126 a which is embedded in the mass ofsmokable material 124 and anotherpart 126 b which projects from and is located externally of thecylinder 114 andpassage 116. The embeddedsupport part 126 a is straight and preferably disposed on, or approximately on, the centrallongitudinal axis 120 of thesmoking product 112. - The external or projecting
support part 126 b is provided with an abutment orend structure 128 which is situated externally of thecylinder 114 andpassage 116 and projects radially to one side of the embeddedsupport part 126 a. Theabutment 128 can also project radially to one side of thecylinder 114 andpassage 116 as illustrated. Theabutment 128 is situated adjacent to the longitudinal end 118 a of thecylinder 114 andpassage 116, and theabutment 128 preferably abuts the longitudinal end 118 a so that theabutment 128 can confine and maintain an ash generated by combustion of thesmokable material 124. - The
abutment 128, which is integral with thesupport 126, is shaped like a coil and is produced by coiling theexternal support part 126 b. The length of the embeddedsupport part 126 a can be adjusted tosmoking products 112 of different length by coiling theexternal support part 126 b more or partially uncoiling theexternal support part 126 b. - The
smoking article 110 can be made by providing a section of wire or wire-like material as thesupport 126 and coiling theexternal support part 126 b so that the embeddedsupport part 126 a has a length at least equal to that of thecylinder 114 andpassage 116. If thesmoking product 112 is already in existence, the embeddedsupport part 126 a is then aligned, at least approximately, with the centrallongitudinal axis 120 of thesmoking product 112. The embeddedsupport part 126 a is thereupon pushed into the mass ofsmokable material 124 through the longitudinal end 118 a of thetube 114 andpassage 116 while maintaining the embeddedsupport part 126 a at least approximately on the centrallongitudinal axis 120 of thesmoking product 112. On the other hand, if thesmoking product 112 is in the process of being manufactured, the embeddedsupport part 126 a is placed, at least approximately, on the centrallongitudinal axis 120 of thesmoking product 112. Thereafter, the mass ofsmokable material 124 is packed around the embeddedsupport part 126 a. - Once the
smoking article 110 has been produced, theexternal support part 126 b may be coiled further or partially uncoiled, if necessary, to bring thecoil 128 into abutment with the longitudinal end 118 a of thecylinder 114 andpassage 116. Thecoil 128 may also be adjusted, if necessary, so as to project radially of thecylinder 114 andpassage 116. - In the preceding description of the production of the
smoking article 110, theexternal support part 126 b is coiled prior to confinement of the embeddedsupport part 126 a in the mass ofsmokable material 124. However, it is possible to coil theexternal support part 126 b following such confinement of the embeddedsupport part 126 a. - Turning to
FIG. 3 , the same reference numerals as inFIG. 2 , plus 100, are used to identify similar elements. - The
smoking article 210 ofFIG. 3 differs from thesmoking article 110 ofFIG. 2 primarily in the configuration of the abutment orend structure 228 of thesmoking article 210. - The
abutment 228, which is again integral with thesupport 226, comprises twolobes 228 a and 228 b which project radially of the embeddedpart 226 a of thesupport 226 to two diametrically opposite sides of the embeddedpart 226 a. As shown, thelobes 228 a,228 b can also project radially of thecylinder 214 andpassage 216 to two diametrically opposite sides of thecylinder 214 andpassage 216. Thelobes 228 a,228 b adjoin thelongitudinal end 218 a of thecylinder 214 andpassage 216, and thelobes 228 a,228 b advantageously abut thelongitudinal end 218 a thereby enabling thelobes 228 a,228 b to confine and maintain an ash generated by combustion of thesmokable material 214. - The
lobes 228 a,228 b can be produced by bending and/or twisting the external or projecting support part 226 b appropriately. The embeddedsupport part 226 a can be adjusted tosmoking products 212 of different length by increasing or decreasing the sizes of thelobes 228 a,228 b. - The
smoking article 210 ofFIG. 3 can be made in a manner similar to that described for thesmoking article 110 ofFIG. 2 . However, the manufacture of thesmoking article 210 differs from the manufacture of thesmoking article 110 in that the external support part 226 b of thesmoking article 210 will be bent and/or twisted rather than coiled like theexternal support part 126 b of thesmoking article 110. - In
FIG. 4 , the same reference numerals as inFIG. 3 , plus 100, signify similar elements. - The
smoking article 310 ofFIG. 4 differs from thesmoking article 210 ofFIG. 3 mainly in the configuration of the external or projectingsupport part 326 b of thesmoking article 310 and the configuration of the abutment orend structure 328 of thesmoking article 310. - The external or projecting
support part 326 b is a straight extension of the embeddedsupport part 326 a, and the end of theexternal support part 326 b remote from the longitudinal end 318 a of thecylinder 314 andpassage 316 can be rounded or pointed. Theabutment 328 includes aflat plate 330 arranged normal to the embeddedsupport part 326 a, and the plate has a central opening which extends through theplate 330. Theexternal support part 326 b passes through the opening in theflat plate 330, and theplate 330 is a friction fit on theexternal support part 326 b. Theflat plate 330 is advantageously made of a heat-resistant insulating material. - The
flat plate 330 is located adjacent to the longitudinal end 318 a of thecylinder 314 andpassage 316, and theflat plate 330 favorably abuts the longitudinal 318 a so as to permit theflat plate 330 to confine and maintain an ash generated by combustion of thesmokable material 324. Theflat plate 330 projects radially of the embeddedsupport part 326 a to all sides of the embeddedsupport part 326 a and is sufficiently large to cover the longitudinal end 318 a of thecylinder 314 andpassage 316. Theflat plate 330 may, but need not, project radially of thecylinder 314 andpassage 316 as shown. - The
flat plate 330 has a major surface which faces away from the longitudinal end 318 a of thecylinder 314 andpassage 316, and a pair oflobes plate 330. Theflat plate 330 andlobes curved plate 334 constituting a segment of a cylinder of circular cross section is mounted on thelobes curved plate 334 has a concave major surface and a convex major surface, and thelobes curved plate 334. Thelobes curved plate 334 can be metallic. - The
curved plate 334 can project radially of thecylinder 314 andpassage 316 to two diametrically opposite sides of thecylinder 314 andpassage 316 as shown. The embeddedsupport part 326 a may be adjusted tosmoking products 312 of different length by shifting theabutment 328 along thesupport 326. - The
smoking article 310 ofFIG. 4 can be made in a manner similar to that described for thesmoking article 110 ofFIG. 2 . However, the manufacture of thesmoking article 310 differs from that of thesmoking article 110 in that thesmoking article 110 is provided with theabutment 128 by shaping theexternal support part 126 b of thesmoking article 110 while thesmoking article 310 is provided with theabutment 328 by sliding the latter onto theexternal support part 326 b of thesmoking article 310. Theabutment 328 of thesmoking article 310 can be slid onto theexternal support 326 b before or after the embeddedsupport part 326 a of thesmoking article 310 is confined in the mass ofsmokable material 324. - Referring to
FIG. 5 , the same reference numerals as inFIG. 4 , plus 100, designate similar elements. - The
smoking article 410 ofFIG. 5 differs from thesmoking article 310 ofFIG. 4 primarily in the design of the abutment orend structure 428 of thesmoking article 410. Theabutment 428 includes a block or body 430 which is favorably made of a heat-resistant insulating material. The block 430 has a surface which faces thelongitudinal end 418 a of the cylinder 414 andpassage 416, and a channel located centrally of the block 430 extends from such surface into and partway through the block 430. The channel receives the straight external support part 426 b, and the block 430 is a friction fit on the external support part 426 b. - The block 430 is disposed adjacent to the
longitudinal end 418 a of the cylinder 414 andpassage 416, and the block 430 preferably abuts thelongitudinal end 418 a to thereby allow the block 430 to confine and maintain an ash generated by combustion of thesmokable material 424. The block 430 projects radially of the embeddedsupport part 426 a in all directions and is sufficiently large to cover thelongitudinal end 418 a of the cylinder 414 andpassage 416. As illustrated, the block 430 may also project radially of the cylinder 414 andpassage 416 to two diametrically opposite sides of the cylinder 414 andpassage 416. - The
abutment 428 further includes aU-shaped member 436 having a pair of generally parallel legs 436 a and acrosspiece 436 b which bridges the legs 436 a. The block 430 is designed to be received between the legs 436 a of theU-shaped member 436 with a friction fit so that the block 430 can firmly hold theU-shaped member 436. - The
crosspiece 436 b of theU-shaped member 436 has a surface which faces away from the block 430 when theU-shaped member 436 is mounted on the block 430, and aholder 438 is bonded to such major surface of thecrosspiece 436 b. Theholder 438 can resemble the setting used in a ring to support a gem, and an ornamental stone or gem 440 is mounted in theholder 438. TheU-shaped member 436 and theholder 438 can be metallic. - The embedded
support part 426 a can be adjusted tosmoking products 412 of different length by shifting theabutment 428 along thesupport 426. - The
smoking article 410 ofFIG. 5 can be made in a manner similar to thesmoking article 310 ofFIG. 4 . However, the production of thesmoking article 410 involves an operation not found in the production of thesmoking article 310. This is the operation of sliding theU-shaped member 436 onto the block 430. TheU-shaped member 436 can be slid onto the block 430 before or after the block 430 is positioned on the external support part 426 b of thesmoking article 410. - Considering
FIG. 6 , the same reference numerals as inFIG. 5 , plus 100, are used to denote similar elements. - The
smoking article 510 ofFIG. 6 differs from thesmoking article 410 ofFIG. 5 mainly in the configuration of theexternal support part 526 b of thesmoking article 510 and the configuration of the abutment orend structure 528 of thesmoking article 510. Theabutment 528 comprises aflat plate 530 which is normal to the embedded support part 526 a and has a major surface facing thelongitudinal end 518 a of thecylinder 514 and passage 516. Two bearing members on opposite sides of the plane ofFIG. 6 and not visible in the drawings are mounted on this major surface of theflat plate 530. The bearing members carry apivot 542, and twojaws 544 a and 544 b are pivotal between an open position and a closed position on thepivot 542. Thejaws 544 a,544 b are biased towards the closed position by a non-illustrated spring. - The
external support part 526 b is flat and thejaws 544 a,544 b clamp the flatexternal part 526 b between them. As shown, thejaws 544 a,544 b may have flat end surfaces which face thelongitudinal end 518 a of thecylinder 514 and passage 516, and the flat end surfaces of thejaws 544 a,544 b preferably abut the longitudinal end 518 so as to allow thejaws 544 a,544 b to confine and maintain an ash generated by combustion of thesmokable material 524. - The
flat plate 530 projects radially of the embedded support part 526 a and can also project radially of thecylinder 514 and passage 516. - The
jaws 544 a,544 b are advantageously composed of a heat-resistant insulating material. Theflat plate 530, thepivot 542 and the bearings which support thepivot 542 can be metallic. - The embedded support part 526 a can be adjusted to
smoking products 512 of different length by shifting the position of thejaws 544 a,544 b on theexternal support part 526 b. - The
smoking article 510 ofFIG. 6 can be made in a manner similar to thesmoking article 310 ofFIG.4 . However, while theabutment 328 of thesmoking article 310 of FIG.4 is mounted on thesupport 326 by sliding theabutment 328 onto theexternal support part 326 b, theabutment 528 of thesmoking article 510 ofFIG. 6 is mounted on the support 526 by clamping theexternal support part 526 b between thejaws 544 a,544 b. - Turning to
FIG. 7 , the same reference numerals as inFIG. 6 , plus 100, are used to identify similar elements. - The smoking article 610 of
FIG. 7 differs from thesmoking article 510 ofFIG. 6 mainly in the design of the abutment 628 of the smoking article 610. Furthermore, while the external support part 626 b ofFIG. 7 could be flat like theexternal support part 526 b ofFIG. 6 , it need not be. - The abutment 628 of
FIG. 7 includes a block orbody 630 made of a fire-resistant insulating material. The insulatingblock 630 has a surface which faces the longitudinal end 618 a of thecylinder 614 andpassage 616, and a channel located centrally of the insulatingblock 630 extends from such surface into and partway through theblock 630. The channel receives the straight external support part 626 b, and the insulatingblock 630 is a friction fit on the external support part 626 b. - The insulating
block 630 is disposed adjacent to the longitudinal end 618 a of thecylinder 614 andpassage 616, and the insulatingblock 630 preferably abuts the longitudinal end 618 to thereby enable the insulatingblock 630 to confine and maintain an ash generated by combustion of thesmokable material 624. The insulatingblock 630 projects radially of the embeddedpart 626 a of thesupport 626 in all directions and is sufficiently large to cover the longitudinal end 618 a of thecylinder 614 andpassage 616. - The insulating
block 630 has a surface which faces away from the longitudinal end 618 a of thecylinder 614 andpassage 616, and the abutment 628 further includes a block orbody 646 of non-insulating material, e.g., metal, which is bonded to such surface of the insulatingblock 630. Accordingly, when the insulatingblock 630 abuts the longitudinal end 618 a of thecylinder 614 andpassage 616, the insulatingblock 630 is sandwiched between thenon-insulating block 646 and the longitudinal end 618 a. While thenon-insulating block 646 is shown as being the same size as the insulatingblock 630, thenon-insulating block 646 can be smaller or larger than the insulatingblock 630. The insulatingblock 630 allows thenon-insulating block 646 to remain relatively cool during combustion of thesmokable material 624. - It is preferred that at least one of the
blocks cylinder 614 andpassage 616. InFIG. 7 , both the insulatingblock 630 and thenon-insulating block 646 project radially to two diametrically opposite sides of thecylinder 614 andpassage 616. - The embedded
support part 626 a can be adjusted tosmoking products 612 of different length by shifting the abutment 628 along thesupport 626. - The smoking article 610 of
FIG. 7 can be made in a manner similar to thesmoking article 310 ofFIG. 4 . - The
curved plate 334 of theabutment 328 forming part of thesmoking article 310 ofFIG. 4 has a major surface which faces away from the longitudinal end 318 a of thecylinder 314 andpassage 316. As depicted inFIG. 8 , this major surface of thecurved plate 334 is provided with a logo. - The
flat plate 530 of theabutment 528 constituting part of thesmoking article 510 ofFIG. 6 likewise has a major surface which faces away from thelongitudinal end 518 a of thecylinder 514 and passage 516.FIG. 9 shows that such major surface of theflat plate 530 is provided with an i.d. - The
non-insulating block 646 of the abutment 628 forming part of the smoking article 610 ofFIG. 7 also has a major surface which faces away from the longitudinal end 618 a of thecylinder 614 andpassage 616. As illustrated inFIG. 10 , this major surface of thenon-insulating block 646 is provided with a charm. - It will be understood that the
curved plate 334 ofFIG. 4 could be provided with an i.d. or charm instead of a logo; that theflat plate 530 ofFIG. 6 could be provided with a logo or charm instead of an i.d.; and that thenon-insulating block 646 ofFIG. 7 could be provided with a logo or i.d. instead of a charm. Moreover, the symbols and expressions which can be applied to thecurved plate 334, theflat plate 530 and thenon-insulating block 646 are not limited to a logo, i.d. or charm. - As was pointed out above, the
coil 128 ofFIG. 2 can project radially of thecylinder 114 andpassage 116; thelobes 228 a,228 b ofFIG. 3 can project radially of thecylinder 214 andpassage 216; thecurved plate 334 ofFIG. 4 can project radially of thecylinder 314 andpassage 316; the block 430 ofFIG. 5 can project radially of the cylinder 414 andpassage 416; theflat plate 530 ofFIG. 6 can project radially of thecylinder 514 and passage 516; and one or both of theblocks FIG. 7 can project radially of thecylinder 614 andpassage 616. Such radial projection has the advantage of allowing an ash generated by combustion of thesmokable material respective smoking article FIG. 11 using thesmoking article 310 ofFIG. 4 as an example. InFIG. 11 , thesmoking article 310 has been placed in anashtray 50 having a bottom 52 as well as arim 54 which extends upward from the bottom 52 and runs peripherally of the latter. Thefilter 322 of thesmoking article 310 rests on therim 54 of theashtray 50 while thecurved plate 334 of thesmoking article 310 rests on the bottom 52 of theashtray 50. An ash generated by combustion of thesmokable material 324 of thesmoking article 310 is thus kept out of contact with theashtray 50. - The
support support support support - Various modifications are possible within the meaning and range of equivalence of the appended claims.
Claims (26)
1. A smoking article comprising:
means defining an elongated passage having a first longitudinal end and an opposed second longitudinal end;
a mass of smokable material in said passage; and
a support for supporting ash generated by combustion of said smokable material, at least one part of said support being located in said mass.
2. The article of claim 1 , wherein said mass and said at least one part of said support extend along at least half of the distance between said first end and said second end.
3. The article of claim 1 , wherein said passage has a central longitudinal axis extending in a direction from said first end to said second end, said at least one part of said support being elongated and positioned at least approximately on said central longitudinal axis.
4. The article of claim 1 , wherein said at least one part of said support comprises wire or wire-like material.
5. The article of claim 4 , wherein said at least one part of said support has a gauge of about 18 to about 25.
6. The article of claim 1 , wherein said support has another part located externally of said passage, said another part of said support being provided with an end structure projecting radially of said at least one part of said support.
7. The article of claim 6 , wherein said end structure projects radially of said passage so that said end structure is capable of maintaining ash generated by combustion of said smokable material out of contact with a surface on which said smoking article is placed.
8. The article of claim 6 , wherein said end structure abuts one of said ends to confine ash generated by combustion of said smokable material.
9. The article of claim 6 , wherein said end structure projects radially of said at least one part of said support to two substantially diametrically opposed sides thereof.
10. The article of claim 6 , wherein said end structure is provided with at least one symbol.
11. The article of claim 10 , wherein said end structure is provided with a logo or an identifier.
12. The article of claim 6 , wherein said end structure is provided with a decorative item.
13. The article of claim 12 , wherein said decorative item comprises a charm or an ornamental stone.
14. The article of claim 6 , wherein said end structure comprises an insulating body.
15. The article of claim 14 , wherein said end structure further comprises a non-insulating body arranged so that said insulating body is sandwiched between said non-insulating body and one of said ends.
16. A method for making a smoking article comprising the steps of:
forming a product which includes an elongated passage containing a mass of smokable material and having a first longitudinal end and an opposed second longitudinal end;
providing a support for ash generated by combustion of said smokable material; and
positioning at least one part of said support in said mass during or after the forming step.
17. The method of claim 16 , wherein the forming step and the positioning step comprise arranging said mass and said at least one part of said support so that said mass and said at least one part of said support extend along at least half of the distance between said first end and said second end.
18. The article of claim 16 , wherein said at least one part of said support is elongated and said passage has a central longitudinal axis extending in a direction from said first end to said second end, the positioning step including locating said at least one part of said support at least approximately on said central longitudinal axis.
19. The method of claim 16 , wherein the positioning step is performed after the forming step and comprises pushing said at least one part of said support into said mass through one of said ends.
20. The method of claim 16 , further comprising the step of providing another part of said support with an end structure projecting radially of said at least one part of said support, said end structure being located externally of said passage.
21. The method of claim 20 , wherein the step of providing another part of said support with an end structure is performed in such a manner that said end structure projects radially of said passage so that said end structure is capable of maintaining ash generated by combustion of said smokable material out of contact with a surface on which said smoking article is placed.
22. The method of claim 20 , wherein the positioning step comprises abutting said end structure with one of said ends to confine ash generated by combustion of said smokable material.
23. The method of claim 20 , wherein the step of providing another part of said support with an end structure is performed in such a manner that said end structure projects radially of said at least one part of said support to two substantially diametrically opposed sides thereof.
24. The method of claim 20 , further comprising the step of providing said end structure with at least one symbol.
25. The method of claim 20 , further comprising the step of providing said end structure with a decorative item.
26. The method of claim 20 , wherein said end structure comprises an insulating body and a non-insulating body; and further comprising the step of sandwiching said insulating body between said non-insulating body and one of said ends.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US11/413,426 US20070251535A1 (en) | 2006-04-28 | 2006-04-28 | Smoking article and method of making the same |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US11/413,426 US20070251535A1 (en) | 2006-04-28 | 2006-04-28 | Smoking article and method of making the same |
Publications (1)
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US20070251535A1 true US20070251535A1 (en) | 2007-11-01 |
Family
ID=38647166
Family Applications (1)
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US11/413,426 Abandoned US20070251535A1 (en) | 2006-04-28 | 2006-04-28 | Smoking article and method of making the same |
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US (1) | US20070251535A1 (en) |
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US4027680A (en) * | 1975-12-22 | 1977-06-07 | Nicholas De Marco | Safety cigarette holder and ash retaining device |
US4034767A (en) * | 1976-08-23 | 1977-07-12 | Depinto Sergio | Cigarette holder |
US4194516A (en) * | 1977-10-20 | 1980-03-25 | Jerome Morgan | Cigarette holder |
-
2006
- 2006-04-28 US US11/413,426 patent/US20070251535A1/en not_active Abandoned
Patent Citations (16)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US1211071A (en) * | 1916-03-11 | 1917-01-02 | George H Brown | Ash-retaining cigarette and the like. |
US1498190A (en) * | 1922-07-21 | 1924-06-17 | Morrier Hormisdas | Cigar and cigarette ash protector and fire preventer |
US1534560A (en) * | 1923-07-11 | 1925-04-21 | Delbert R Baity | Safety cigarette holder |
US1552182A (en) * | 1924-01-14 | 1925-09-01 | Todd Thomas Survan | Ash retainer and spark arrester for cigarette holders |
US1633431A (en) * | 1926-03-06 | 1927-06-21 | Bagamery Alexander | Safety cigar holder |
US1858180A (en) * | 1931-10-19 | 1932-05-10 | Milo L Bjornstad | Cigarette ash and spark protector |
US2096658A (en) * | 1936-12-10 | 1937-10-19 | Wallace E Walden | Ash-retaining cigarette holder |
US2123466A (en) * | 1937-06-30 | 1938-07-12 | Edward S Halsey | Safety cigarette holder |
US2314585A (en) * | 1940-12-28 | 1943-03-23 | Lemle William | Ash-retaining cigarette holder |
US2518131A (en) * | 1947-01-22 | 1950-08-08 | Fook Lee | Cigarette holder and ash retainer |
US3165105A (en) * | 1963-05-13 | 1965-01-12 | Robert A Campbell | Ash-retaining safety cigarette |
US3736940A (en) * | 1967-07-18 | 1973-06-05 | Pastou J Saint | Cigarette with ash-retaining means |
US3916916A (en) * | 1974-11-07 | 1975-11-04 | Guy Bramucci | Shield for cigarettes and cigars |
US4027680A (en) * | 1975-12-22 | 1977-06-07 | Nicholas De Marco | Safety cigarette holder and ash retaining device |
US4034767A (en) * | 1976-08-23 | 1977-07-12 | Depinto Sergio | Cigarette holder |
US4194516A (en) * | 1977-10-20 | 1980-03-25 | Jerome Morgan | Cigarette holder |
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Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |