The present invention relates to a container for consumer goods. The container of the present invention finds particular application as a container for aerosol-generating articles, such as cigarettes.

It is known to package consumer goods in containers formed from folded laminar blanks. By way of example, elongate aerosol-generating articles, such as cigarettes and cigars, are often sold in rigid box shaped containers, such as hinged lid containers having a box portion and a hinged lid connected to the box about a hinge line extending across the back wall of the container.

In general, such containers require a consumer to use both of their hands to withdraw, or otherwise gain access to, the consumer goods; a first hand to hold the box and a second hand to move the lid and withdraw the consumer goods. Whilst it may be possible to access consumer goods with a single hand, doing so can often be cumbersome. For example, when using a single hand, the consumer may need to steady the container against a surface, such as their body, in order to facilitate accessing the consumer goods. In some circumstances, such as when consumer goods held in the container are tightly packed, withdrawing consumer goods may be impossible without holding the container. Therefore, accessing consumer goods held in such containers may be difficult or impractical whilst the user is performing another task that also requires the use of their hands. In particular, a driver of a vehicle may find it difficult to access consumer goods held in such containers.

It would be desirable to provide a container in which the driver of a vehicle may access consumer goods within the container using only one hand.

It would also be desirable to provide such a container whilst still ensuring that the container can easily be manufactured without requiring major modifications to existing manufacturing equipment or techniques.

The present disclosure relates to a container for consumer goods. The container may comprise a box. The box may comprise a box back wall, a first box side wall, a second box side wall, a box bottom wall and a box opening for accessing consumer goods housed in the box, the box opening disposed opposite the box bottom wall. The container may comprise a mounting arm. The mounting arm may comprise a mounting arm panel connected to the box by a mounting arm hinge line. The mounting arm may be configured to pivot about the mounting arm hinge line between a first position and a second position. In the first position, the mounting arm panel may overlie at least a portion of the box back wall. In the second position, the mounting arm panel may extend substantially away from the box. The mounting arm may further comprise a first tab. The first tab may extend from the mounting arm panel along a first tab fold line and may be configured to be folded towards the mounting arm panel about the first tab fold line.

The present disclosure thereby concerns a container having a mounting arm mechanism. This mechanism may allow the container to be securely mounted to the interior of a vehicle. Typically, vehicles have at least one air vent that is located within reach of the driver and that is located within the forward field of view of the driver, thereby allowing the driver to have line of sight to the air vent whilst also being able to see the road ahead. A vehicle air vent may therefore be a particularly desirable location for mounting a container of consumer goods, as this may be a location where the driver of a vehicle can conveniently access consumer goods within the container using only one hand. Consequently, the mounting arm may be for insertion into a vent and the first tab may be for retaining the mounting arm in the vent. In particular, the mounting arm may be for insertion between vent guide vanes and the first tab may be for retaining the mounting arm between the vent guide vanes.

According to the invention there is provided a container for consumer goods. The container comprises a box. The box comprises a box backwall, a first box side wall, a second box side wall, a box bottom wall and a box opening for accessing consumer goods housed in the box, the boxing opening disposed opposite the box bottom wall. The container further comprises a mounting arm. The mounting arm comprises a mounting arm panel connected to the box by a mounting arm hinge line. The mounting arm is configured to pivot about the mounting arm hinge line between a first position in which the mounting arm panel overlies at least a portion of the box back wall, and a second position in which the mounting arm panel extends substantially away from the box. The mounting arm further comprises a first tab. The first tab extends from the mounting arm panel along a first tab fold line and is configured to be folded towards the mounting arm panel about the first tab fold line.

Typically, vehicle air vents have a plurality of spaced guide vanes that help to direct air flow from the vent to the vehicle interior cabin. The provision of a mounting arm allows the container to be mounted to a vent by inserting the mounting arm into a gap between a pair of vent guide vanes.

The provision of a mounting arm having a foldable tab allows the mounting arm to be retained between the pair of vent guide vanes. This is because the tab will attempt to return to its natural, unfolded position when between the pair of vent guide vanes. In doing so, the tab urges against one of the pair of vent guide vanes and this urging action causes the mounting arm panel to urge against the other of the pair of vent guide vanes. Thereby securing the mounting arm in the vent by forming an interference fit between the pair of vent guide vanes. Alternatively, or in addition to providing an interference fit, the tab or portion of the tab may be positioned on the mounting arm such that it may return to its natural, unfolded position behind one of the pair of vent guide vanes. Thereby securing the mounting arm in the vent by forming an abutting engagement with a rear surface of one of the pair of vent guide vanes.

The provision of a pivotable mounting arm permits the mounting arm to be stowed in the first position when mounting of the container is not required. This makes the container more compact which may be desirable, for example, when the container is on a shelf in a shop.

The provision of a mounting arm formed from panels and tabs allows the container and mounting mechanism to be manufactured without requiring major modifications to existing manufacturing equipment or techniques.

The terms “front”, “back”, “top”, “bottom” and “side” used herein refer to the relative positions of portions of containers according to the invention and components thereof when the container is in an upright position. When describing containers according to the present invention, these terms are used irrespective of the orientation of the container being described. In the upright position, the box opening is located at the top of the box.

The term “height” is used herein to refer to dimensions extending between the top and the bottom of the box. The term “width” is used herein to refer to dimensions extending between two sides of the box. The term “depth” is used herein to refer to dimensions extending between the front and the back of the box. Height, width and depth are orthogonal to each other.

The term “proximal” is used herein to refer to an end of the mounting arm, or an end of a component of the mounting arm, that is closest to the mounting arm hinge line. The term “distal” used herein refers to an end of the mounting arm, or an end of a component of the mounting arm, that is opposite to the proximal end. The mounting arm, or components of the mounting arm, may have structural features disposed at a proximal or distal end and may be referred to as proximal or distal, for example a proximal edge or a distal edge.

The term “longitudinal” used herein refers to a direction extending between the mounting arm proximal end and the mounting arm distal end. The longitudinal direction is perpendicular to the mounting arm hinge line.

The term “transverse” used herein refers to a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

The term “length” used herein refers to a maximum dimension of the mounting arm, or a component of the mounting arm, in the longitudinal direction.

The term “depending” is used herein to describe a physical connection between two elements of a container. In more detail, the term “depending” is used to indicate that there is a material continuity between two elements, such as two walls or panels of a container or blank. A panel, wall or tab may depend directly from an adjacent panel or wall. In such case, the panel, wall or tab typically depends along a fold line from the adjacent panel or wall.

The term "panel" used herein refers to a portion of the container formed from a single, continuous portion of material. A panel may depend along one or more fold lines from one or more other panels.

The term "wall" used herein refers to a facet of the container, and a wall may be formed from a single panel, or a wall may be formed from two or more abutting or overlapping panels.

The term "hinge line" used herein refers to a line about which two elements may be pivoted relative to each other. A hinge line may be, for example, a fold line, a perforation line or score line in a wall or panel of the container, or between two walls of the container.

The term “fold line” is used to describe any line of a blank about which the blank is folded. The fold line may be defined by a line of weakness to assist with the folding action. Alternatively, a fold can be formed without the presence of a weakening line, depending for example on the pliability of the blank material and other material characteristics.

The term "scoring line" used herein refers to a line formed by partially cutting into the material of the blank. A scoring line may be formed by removing material from the blank (in which case the scoring line forms a groove or trough in the blank). As an alternative, a scoring line may be formed without removing any material from the blank, typically involving a partial sideways displacement and compression of material, caused by a knife with a non-zero thickness penetrating the material. The depth of the scoring line will be less than the thickness of the blank.

The term "inner surface" is used to refer to the side of a portion of the blank that, once the container is assembled, faces towards the interior of the container, for example towards the consumer goods, when the container is in the closed position. Likewise, the term "outer surface" is used to refer to the side of a portion of the blank that, once the container is assembled, faces towards the exterior of the container. The inner surface of the mounting arm panel is the surface that faces the inside of the container when the mounting arm is in the first position. In other words, the inner surface of the mounting arm panel is the surface that overlies the box back wall when the mounting arm is in the first position.

The term "interference fit" used herein refers to a friction fit interface between two components used to couple the two components together. For example, one component may be inserted into an opening of another component and fixed thereto by an interference fit. The interference fit may be reversible. In other words, the one component may be removably coupled to the other component. In some preferred embodiments, the mounting arm may comprise a second tab. The second tab may extend from the mounting arm panel along a second tab fold line. The second tab may be configured to be folded towards the mounting arm panel about the second tab fold line. Providing the mounting arm with a second tab may ensure a more secure connection between the mounting arm and the air vent.

The first tab and the second tab may be folded by applying an external force, however they are configured to return to their natural, unfolded position once the external force is removed. Therefore, the first tab may be described as a first resilient tab and the second tab may be described as a second resilient tab.

In some preferred embodiments, the first tab fold line may extend along the mounting arm panel in a longitudinal direction. The second tab fold line may extend along the mounting arm panel in a longitudinal direction. The first tab fold line may extend between the mounting arm hinge line and the mounting panel distal edge. The second tab fold line may extend between the mounting arm hinge line and the mounting panel distal edge. The second tab fold line may be spaced apart from the first tab fold line in a transverse direction.

In some preferred embodiments, the first tab may depend from the mounting arm panel. The second tab may depend from the mounting arm panel.

In some preferred embodiments, the first tab fold line may extend along a first longitudinal edge of the mounting arm panel. The second tab fold line may extend along a second longitudinal edge of the mounting arm panel. The first and second longitudinal edges of the mounting arm extending from the mounting arm hinge line to the mounting arm panel distal edge.

Arranging one or both of the tab fold lines to extend along the mounting arm panel in a longitudinal direction and positioning one or both of the fold lines at a longitudinal edge of the mounting arm panel may allow a consumer to more easily fold the tabs prior to insertion of the mounting arm into a vent, or when removing the mounting arm from a vent. Furthermore, providing the tab fold lines at an edge of the mounting arm panel advantageously allows the tabs to be folded towards either the inner surface or the outer surface of the mounting arm panel. Different consumers may find it easier to fold the tabs towards either the inner surface or the outer surface, depending on how they hold the container when mounting it to a vent.

In some embodiments, the mounting arm may comprise a spacing element. The spacing element may comprise a spacing panel. The spacing panel may extend from the mounting arm panel along a spacing panel fold line. The spacing element may be configured to provide a predetermined gap between the box back wall and a vent when the mounting arm is inserted into the vent. A gap between the box back wall and a vent, when the mounting arm is inserted into the vent, may advantageously limit any disturbance to the airflow from the vent. A gap may be particularly advantageous in embodiments where the container comprises a lid. The gap may assist in allowing the lid to be opened to a greater extent than could otherwise be achieved without the gap.

The spacing panel fold line may extend along the mounting arm panel in a longitudinal direction. Preferably, the spacing panel fold line may extend along the first longitudinal edge of the mounting arm panel. Preferably, the spacing panel fold line is disposed between the first tab fold line and the mounting arm hinge line. In embodiments having a spacing panel, the first tab fold line may extend from spacing panel fold line towards the mounting arm panel distal edge.

Containers may have different sizes depending on the consumer goods they are configured to contain. Different sized containers may obstruct the airflow from the vent to different extents. Therefore, the gap between the box back wall and the vent may need to be selected based upon the size of the container. The size of the gap may be adjusted by appropriately selecting the spacing panel fold line length, the spacing panel length or both.

One or both of the spacing panel fold line and the spacing panel may have a length of between about 5 millimetres and about 15 millimetres, between about 5 millimetres and about 12 millimetres or between about 5 millimetres and between about 10 millimetres. For example, about 5 millimetres, about 6 millimetres, about 7 millimetres, about 8 millimetres, about 9 millimetres or about 10 millimetres.

In some preferred embodiments, the container may comprise a locking mechanism for locking the mounting arm in the second position. By providing the container with a locking mechanism, the container may have improved resistance to movement about the mounting arm hinge line. This may provide several advantages, such as making it easier to remove consumer goods from the container.

The locking mechanism may comprise a slit. The locking mechanism may comprise a locking tab. The locking tab may be configured to be inserted into the slit to lock the mounting arm in the second position.

The box may comprise the slit. The slit may be disposed in the box back wall. Preferably, the slit is disposed in the first box side wall.

The mounting arm may comprise the locking tab. A locking panel may extend from the mounting arm panel along a locking panel fold line. The locking tab may extend from the locking panel along a locking tab fold line. In some embodiments, the locking panel may be the spacing panel. In some embodiments, the first tab may be configured to retain the mounting arm in a vent by forming an interference fit between vent guide vanes. In some embodiments, the second tab may be configured to retain the mounting arm in a vent by forming an interference fit between vent guide vanes.

The first tab may have a surface having a surface roughness of 0.8 micrometres or more as measured in accordance with ISO 8791 -4, a surface roughness of 1 .2 micrometres or more as measured in accordance with ISO 8791 -4, a surface roughness of 1.5 micrometres or more as measured in accordance with ISO 8791 -4, or a surface roughness of 2 micrometres or more as measured in accordance with ISO 8791 -4.

The second tab may have a surface having a surface roughness of 0.8 micrometres or more as measured in accordance with ISO 8791 -4, a surface roughness of 1.2 micrometres or more as measured in accordance with ISO 8791 -4, a surface roughness of 1.5 micrometres or more as measured in accordance with ISO 8791 -4, or a surface roughness of 2 micrometres or more as measured in accordance with ISO 8791 -4.

The mounting arm panel may have a surface having a surface roughness of 0.8 micrometres or more as measured in accordance with ISO 8791 -4, a surface roughness of 1 .2 micrometres or more as measured in accordance with ISO 8791 -4, a surface roughness of 1.5 micrometres or more as measured in accordance with ISO 8791 -4, or a surface roughness of 2 micrometres or more as measured in accordance with ISO 8791 -4.

In some preferred embodiments, the first tab fold line may extend from the mounting arm hinge line towards the mounting arm panel distal edge. By arranging the fold line to extend from the mounting arm hinge line, the first tab may advantageously remain between the vent guide vanes when the tab is inserted into the vent. Thereby, ensuring an interference fit is maintained.

In some preferred embodiments, the first tab fold line may extend from the mounting arm hinge line to the mounting arm panel distal edge. Such an arrangement may advantageously provide an interference fit along the entire length of the mounting arm.

The second tab fold line may extend from the mounting arm hinge line towards the mounting arm panel distal edge. The second tab fold line may extend from the mounting arm hinge line to the mounting arm panel distal edge.

The first tab may have a length greater than about 50 percent of a length between the mounting arm panel distal edge and the mounting arm hinge line. For example, greater than about 55 percent, greater than about 60 percent, greater than about 65 percent, greater than about 70 percent, greater than about 75 percent or greater than about 80 percent.

The second tab may have a length greater than about 50 percent of a length between the mounting arm panel distal edge and the mounting arm hinge line. For example, greater than about 55 percent, greater than about 60 percent, greater than about 65 percent, greater than about 70 percent, greater than about 75 percent or greater than about 80 percent.

The first tab may have a length substantially the same as a length between the mounting arm panel distal edge and the mounting arm hinge line. The second tab may have a length substantially the same as a length between the mounting arm panel distal edge and the mounting arm hinge line. Such an arrangement may advantageously provide an interference fit along the entire length of the mounting arm.

In some embodiments, the first tab may be configured to retain the mounting arm in a vent by abutting a rear surface of a vent guide vane received between a proximal edge of the first tab and the box back wall. In some embodiments, the second tab may be configured to retain the mounting arm in a vent by abutting a rear surface of a vent guide vane received between a proximal edge of the second tab and the box back wall. In other words, the first and second tabs may be configured to form hooks.

The proximal edge of the first tab may be spaced from the mounting arm hinge line in a longitudinal direction. The proximal edge of the second tab may be spaced from the mounting arm hinge line in a longitudinal direction. By arranging a proximal edge of one or both of the first tab and the second tab to be spaced apart from the mounting arm hinge line, a vent guide vane may be received between the proximal edge of one or both of the first tab and the second tab and the box back wall when the mounting arm is inserted into the vent.

The proximal edge of the first tab may be spaced from the mounting arm hinge line in a longitudinal direction by between about 10 millimetres and about 50 millimetres. For example, between about 10 millimetres and about 45 millimetres, between about 10 millimetres and about 40 millimetres, between about 10 millimetres and about 35 millimetres, between about 10 millimetres and about 30 millimetres, between about 10 millimetres and about 25 millimetres or between about 10 millimetres and about 20 millimetres.

The first tab may be disposed at the mounting arm panel distal end. For example, the first tab fold line may extend from the mounting arm panel distal edge towards, and be spaced apart from, the mounting arm hinge line. The first tab fold line may be spaced from the mounting arm hinge line by between about 10 millimetres and about 50 millimetres. For example, between about 10 millimetres and about 45 millimetres, between about 10 millimetres and about 40 millimetres, between about 10 millimetres and about 35 millimetres, between about 10 millimetres and about 30 millimetres, between about 10 millimetres and about 25 millimetres or between about 10 millimetres and about 20 millimetres.

The proximal edge of the second tab may be spaced from the mounting arm hinge line in a longitudinal direction by between about 10 millimetres and about 50 millimetres. For example, between about 10 millimetres and about 45 millimetres, between about 10 millimetres and about 40 millimetres, between about 10 millimetres and about 35 millimetres, between about 10 millimetres and about 30 millimetres, between about 10 millimetres and about 25 millimetres or between about 10 millimetres and about 20 millimetres.

The second tab may be disposed at the mounting arm panel distal end. For example, the second tab fold line may extend from the mounting arm panel distal edge towards, and be spaced apart from, the mounting arm hinge line. The second tab fold line may be spaced from the mounting arm hinge line by between about 10 millimetres and about 50 millimetres. For example, between about 10 millimetres and about 45 millimetres, between about 10 millimetres and about 40 millimetres, between about 10 millimetres and about 35 millimetres, between about 10 millimetres and about 30 millimetres, between about 10 millimetres and about 25 millimetres or between about 10 millimetres and about 20 millimetres.

The first tab may define an internal angle between the first tab fold line and a proximal edge of the first tab. The internal angle between the first tab fold line and a proximal edge of the first tab may be less than about 90 degrees. Preferably, the internal angle between the first tab fold line and a proximal edge of the first tab may be between about 20 degrees and about 70 degrees. More preferably, the internal angle between the first tab fold line and a proximal edge of the first tab may be between about 30 degrees and about 60 degrees. Most preferably, the internal angle between the first tab fold line and a proximal edge of the first tab may be about 45 degrees.

The second tab may define an internal angle between the second tab fold line and a proximal edge of the second tab. The internal angle between the second tab fold line and a proximal edge of the second tab may be less than about 90 degrees. Preferably, the internal angle between the second tab fold line and a proximal edge of the second tab may be between about 20 degrees and about 70 degrees. More preferably, the internal angle between the second tab fold line and a proximal edge of the second tab may be between about 30 degrees and about 60 degrees. Most preferably, the internal angle between the second tab fold line and a proximal edge of the second tab may be about 45 degrees.

A first or second tab having such an angled proximal edge may make it easier for a consumer to remove the mounting arm from between vent guide vanes, particularly in those embodiments in which the first or second tab is configured to abut a rear surface of a received vent guide vane.

The first tab may define an internal angle between the first tab fold line and a distal edge of the first tab. The internal angle between the first tab fold line and a distal edge of the first tab may be less than about 90 degrees. Preferably, the internal angle between the first tab fold line and a distal edge of the first tab may be between about 20 degrees and about 70 degrees. More preferably, the internal angle between the first tab fold line and a distal edge of the first tab may be between about 30 degrees and about 60 degrees. Most preferably, the internal angle of the first tab may be about 45 degrees.

The second tab may define an internal angle between the second tab fold line and a distal edge of the second tab. The internal angle between the second tab fold line and a distal edge of the second tab may be less than about 90 degrees. Preferably, the internal angle between the second tab fold line and a distal edge of the second tab may be between about 20 degrees and about 70 degrees. More preferably, the internal angle between the second tab fold line and a distal edge of the second tab may be between about 30 degrees and about 60 degrees. Most preferably, the internal angle between the second tab fold line and a distal edge of the second tab may be about 45 degrees.

A first or second tab having such an angled distal edge may make it easier for a user to insert the mounting arm into a vent.

The first tab may be square, rectangular, triangular or trapezoidal in shape. The second tab may be square, rectangular, triangular or trapezoidal in shape.

The first tab may have a length of between about 10 millimetres and about 50 millimetres, between about 15 millimetres and about 50 millimetres, between about 20 millimetres and about 50 millimetres, between about 25 millimetres and about 50 millimetres, or between about 25 millimetres and about 50 millimetres. For example, about 25 millimetres, about 30 millimetres, about 35 millimetres, about 40 millimetres, about 45 millimetres or about 50 millimetres.

The first tab may have a length of between about 5 millimetres and about 30 millimetres, between about 5 millimetres and about 25 millimetres, between about 5 millimetres and about 20 millimetres, between about 5 millimetres and about 15 millimetres, or between about 10 millimetres and about 15 millimetres. For example, about 10 millimetres, about 1 1 millimetres, about 12 millimetres, about 13 millimetres, about 14 millimetres or about 15 millimetres.

The second tab may have a length of between about 10 millimetres and about 50 millimetres, between about 15 millimetres and about 50 millimetres, between about 20 millimetres and about 50 millimetres, between about 25 millimetres and about 50 millimetres, or between about 25 millimetres and about 50 millimetres. For example, about 25 millimetres, about 30 millimetres, about 35 millimetres, about 40 millimetres, about 45 millimetres or about 50 millimetres.

The first tab may have a length of between about 5 millimetres and about 30 millimetres, between about 5 millimetres and about 25 millimetres, between about 5 millimetres and about 20 millimetres, between about 5 millimetres and about 15 millimetres, or between about 10 millimetres and about 15 millimetres. For example, about 10 millimetres, about 1 1 millimetres, about 12 millimetres, about 13 millimetres, about 14 millimetres or about 15 millimetres.

In some embodiments, the first tab may be configured to retain the mounting arm in a vent by forming an interference fit between vent guide vanes and by abutting a rear surface of a vent guide vane received between a portion of the first tab and the box back wall. In some embodiments, the second tab may be configured to retain the mounting arm in a vent by forming an interference fit between vent guide vanes and by abutting a rear surface of a vent guide vane received between a portion of the second tab and the box back wall.

The first tab may comprise a first tab hook portion and a first tab interference portion. The first tab hook portion may be distal to the first tab interference portion. The first tab hook portion and the first tab interference portion may be separated by a cut line. The cut line may extend from the first tab fold line. Preferably, the first tab hook portion and the first tab interference portion may be each independently foldable towards the mounting arm panel about the first tab fold line.

The second tab may comprise a second tab hook portion and a second tab interference portion. The second tab hook portion may be distal to the second interference portion. The second tab hook portion and the second tab interference portion may be separated by a cut line. The cut line may extend from the second tab fold line. Preferably, the second tab hook portion and the second tab interference portion may be each independently foldable towards the mounting arm panel about the second tab fold line.

By providing the first or second tab with both a hook portion and an interference portion, the connection between the mounting arm and the vent may be more secure.

The first tab hook portion may define an internal angle between the first tab fold line and a proximal edge of the first tab hook portion. The internal angle between the first tab fold line and a proximal edge of the first tab hook portion may be less than about 90 degrees. Preferably, the internal angle between the first tab fold line and a proximal edge of the first tab hook portion may be between about 20 degrees and about 70 degrees. More preferably, the internal angle between the first tab fold line and a proximal edge of the first tab hook portion may be between about 30 degrees and about 60 degrees. Most preferably, the internal angle between the first tab fold line and a proximal edge of the first tab hook portion may be about 45 degrees.

The second tab hook portion may define an internal angle between the second tab fold line and a proximal edge of the second tab hook portion. The internal angle between the second tab fold line and a proximal edge of the second tab hook portion may be less than about 90 degrees. Preferably, the internal angle between the second tab fold line and a proximal edge of the second tab hook portion may be between about 20 degrees and about 70 degrees. More preferably, the internal angle between the second tab fold line and a proximal edge of the second tab hook portion may be between about 30 degrees and about 60 degrees. Most preferably, the internal angle between the second tab fold line and a proximal edge of the second tab hook portion may be about 45 degrees.

The first tab hook portion may be triangular or trapezoidal in shape. The second tab hook portion may be triangular or trapezoidal in shape.

In some preferred embodiments, the mounting arm hinge line may extend between an edge that connects the box back wall and the first box side wall and an edge that connects the box back wall and the second box side wall. The mounting arm hinge line may extend from the edge that connects the box back wall and the first box side wall to the edge that connects the box back wall and the second box side wall. Preferably, the mounting arm hinge line may be substantially parallel to an edge that connects the box back wall and the box bottom wall.

The mounting arm hinge line may be substantially parallel to, and be spaced from, an edge that connects the box back wall and the box bottom wall. In such embodiments, a portion of the box back wall may reside below the mounting arm hinge line. Advantageously, the portion of the box back wall below the mounting arm hinge line may aid in stabilising the container when mounted in a vent, for example by preventing the container from pivoting about the mounting arm hinge line. This may be particularly advantageous in embodiments which do not comprise a locking mechanism. The mounting arm hinge line may be spaced from the edge that connects the box back wall and the box bottom wall by between about 5 millimetres to about 15 millimetres, for example by about 5 millimetres, about 6 millimetres, about 7, millimetres, about 8 millimetres, about 9 millimetres, about 10 millimetres, about 11 millimetres, about 12 millimetres, about 13 millimetres, about 14 millimetres or about 15 millimetres. Preferably, the mounting arm hinge line may be spaced from the edge that connects the box back wall and the box bottom wall by about 8 millimetres.

In some preferred embodiments, the mounting arm hinge line may extend along the edge separating the box back wall and the box bottom wall. This can enable the mounting arm panel to have substantially same dimensions as the box back wall, and thereby allow the container to have a more conventional appearance when the mounting arm is in the first position. Furthermore, this can also enable mounting arm panel to lie flush against box back wall when the mounting arm is in the first position. Preferably, the mounting arm panel may have a transverse dimension substantially the same as the width of the box back wall.

The first tab may be configured to overlie at least a portion of the first box side wall when the mounting arm is in the first position. The second tab may be configured to overlie at least a portion of the second box side wall when the mounting arm is in the first position. The first tab may be configured to overlie at least a portion of the box back wall when the mounting arm is in the first position. The second tab may be configured to overlie at least a portion of the box back wall when the mounting arm is in the first position.

In some embodiments, the mounting arm distal end may comprise a recess. The recess may accommodate a portion of the vent when the mounting arm is inserted into the vent. For example, the recess may accommodate a portion of the vent that is perpendicular to the mounting arm panel transverse direction. Such a recess may allow the mounting arm to be inserted into the vent further than would otherwise be possible.

The present disclosure also contemplates embodiments, where the container comprises more than one mounting arm. Accordingly, in some preferred embodiments, the mounting arm may be a first mounting arm and the mounting arm hinge line may be a first mounting arm hinge line. The first mounting arm hinge line may extend along an edge separating the box back wall and the first box side wall.

The container may further comprise a second mounting arm. The second mounting arm may have any feature or combination of features corresponding to those features and combination of features described above in respect of the first mounting arm. For example, the second mounting arm may comprise a second mounting arm panel connected to the box by a second mounting arm hinge line extending along an edge separating the box back wall and the second box side wall. The second mounting arm may be configured to pivot about the second mounting arm hinge line between a first position in which the second mounting arm panel overlies at least a portion of the box back wall, and a second position in which the second mounting arm panel extends substantially away from the box. The second mounting arm may comprise a third tab. The third tab may extend from the second mounting arm panel along a third tab fold line and may be configured to be folded towards the second mounting arm panel about the third tab fold line.

Preferably, the second mounting arm may comprise a fourth tab. The fourth tab may extend from the second mounting arm panel along a fourth tab fold line and may be configured to be folded towards the second mounting arm panel about the fourth tab fold line.

The first tab may be configured to overlie at least a portion of the box back wall when the first mounting arm is in the first position. The second tab may be configured to overlie at least a portion of the box back wall when the first mounting arm is in the first position. The third tab may be configured to overlie at least a portion of the box back wall when the second mounting arm is in the first position. The fourth tab may be configured to overlie at least a portion of the box back wall when the second mounting arm is in the first position.

It should be understood the that “third” tab or tab fold line may have any of the features disclosed herein in relation to the first tab or tab fold line. It should also be understood the that “fourth” tab or tab fold line may have any of the features disclosed herein in relation to the second tab or tab fold line. Furthermore, the third tab and the fourth tab may be folded by applying an external force, however they are configured to return to their natural, unfolded position once the external force is removed. Therefore, the third tab may be described as a third resilient tab and the fourth tab may be described as a fourth resilient tab.

In some embodiments, the container may further comprise a lid connected to the box by a lid hinge line extending across the box back wall. The lid may be configured to pivot about the lid hinge line between a closed position in which the lid covers the box opening and an open position in which the box opening is uncovered.

In some embodiments, the container may further comprise a lid connected to the box by a lid hinge line extending across the first box side wall or the second box side wall. The lid may be configured to pivot about the lid hinge line between a closed position in which the lid covers the box opening and an open position in which the box opening is uncovered. A lid hinge line extending across the first box side wall or the second box side wall may allow the lid to be more easily opened when the container is mounted on a vent.

The container may further comprise a scent-releasing element. Advantageously, the container may therefore also function as a vehicle air freshener. As the container may be mounted to a vent, airflow from the vent may assist in releasing the scent from the scentreleasing element.

The scent-releasing element may be a substrate, such as a porous substrate, having an aromatic liquid absorbed therein. The aromatic liquid may comprise one or more volatile compounds and be configured to diffuse into the environment when exposed to a stream of air from a vent.

The scent-releasing element may be disposed on an outer surface of the box. The scent-releasing element may be disposed on a surface of the mounting arm. Preferably, the scent-releasing element may be disposed on one or more of: the box back wall, the first box side wall, the second box side wall, the mounting arm panel and the first tab. The scentreleasing element may be covered by a removable seal. The removable seal may be a plastic film.

In some preferred embodiments, at least the box and one or more of: the mounting arm, the mounting arm panel and the first tab may be formed from a single laminar blank.

In some preferred embodiments, at least the box and one or more of: the mounting arm, the mounting arm panel, the first tab and the second tab may be formed from a single laminar blank.

In some preferred embodiments, at least the box and one or more of: the first mounting arm, the first mounting arm panel, the second mounting arm, the second mounting arm panel, the first tab, the second tab, the third tab and the fourth tab may be formed from a single laminar blank.

In some preferred embodiments, one or more of: the box, the mounting arm and the first tab may be formed from laminated cardboard.

According to the invention there is provided a single laminar blank for forming the container described herein.

Containers according to the invention are preferably formed from one or more folded laminar blanks. The one or more laminar blanks may be formed from any suitable material or combination of materials including, but not limited to, cardboard, paperboard, plastic, metal, or combinations thereof. The different components of the container may be formed from the same material, or from different materials. Each of the one or more laminar blanks may be laminar cardboard blank having a weight of between about 100 grams per square metre and about 350 grams per square metre. In preferred embodiments, the blank has a thickness of from about 100 micrometres to about 500 micrometres, preferably from about 200 micrometres to about 350 micrometres.

The container is preferably a rectangular parallelepiped comprising two wider walls (front and back) spaced apart by two narrower side walls. Containers according to the invention may be in the shape of a rectangular parallelepiped.

The container may comprise a plurality of consumer goods. The consumer goods may be aerosol-generating articles. The aerosol-generating articles may be filter cigarettes or other smoking articles in which an aerosol-generating substrate comprises a tobacco material that is combusted to form smoke. The aerosol-generating articles may be articles in which a tobacco material is heated to form an aerosol, rather than combusted. The aerosolgenerating articles may be articles in which a nicotine-containing aerosol is generated from a tobacco material, tobacco extract, or other nicotine source, without combustion, and in some cases without heating, for example through a chemical reaction.

The aerosol-generating articles may be provided within the container in the form of a bundle wrapped in an inner package formed of fiber-based paper, metal foil or metallised paper. The inner package material may be formed as a laminate of a metallised polyethylene film, and a liner material. The liner material may be a super-calendered glassine paper. In addition, the inner package material may be provided with a print-receptive top coating. The inner package has an access opening through which aerosol-generating articles can be removed when the lid of the container is in a respective open position.

Through an appropriate choice of the dimensions, containers according to the invention may be designed to hold different total numbers of aerosol-generating articles, or different arrangements of aerosol-generating articles. For example, through an appropriate choice of the dimensions, containers according to the invention may be designed to hold a total of between ten and thirty aerosol-generating articles. The aerosol-generating articles may be arranged in different collations, depending on the total number.

According to the invention there is provided a kit of parts. The kit of parts comprising a box and a mounting arm laminar blank. The box comprises a box back wall, a first box side wall, a second box side wall, a box bottom wall and a box opening for accessing consumer goods housed in the box, the boxing opening disposed opposite the box bottom wall. The box back wall may have a slit. The mounting arm laminar blank comprises a mounting arm panel, a first tab extending from the mounting arm panel along a first tab fold line and configured to be folded towards the mounting arm panel about the first tab fold line and a connecting panel extending from the mounting arm panel along a connecting panel fold line. The connecting panel may be configured to be inserted into the slit of the box back wall to form a container described herein. The connecting panel may be configured to be adhered to the box bottom wall.

According to the invention there is provided a method of mounting a container described herein to a vent having vent guide vanes. The method comprising moving the mounting arm of the container from the first position to the second position; folding the first tab towards the mounting arm panel; inserting the mounting arm and first tab between the vent guide vanes; and releasing the first tab.

The invention is defined in the claims. However, below there is provided a non- exhaustive list of non-limiting examples. Any one or more of the features of these examples may be combined with any one or more features of another example, embodiment, or aspect described herein.

Ex1 . A container for consumer goods, the container comprising: a box comprising a box back wall, a first box side wall, a second box side wall, a box bottom wall and a box opening for accessing consumer goods housed in the box, the box opening disposed opposite the box bottom wall; a mounting arm, comprising: a mounting arm panel connected to the box by a mounting arm hinge line, the mounting arm configured to pivot about the mounting arm hinge line between a first position in which the mounting arm panel overlies at least a portion of the box backwall, and a second position in which the mounting arm panel extends substantially away from the box; and a first tab extending from the mounting arm panel along a first tab fold line and configured to be folded towards the mounting arm panel about the first tab fold line. Ex2. A container according to Ex1 , wherein the mounting arm comprises a second tab, the second tab extending from the mounting arm panel along a second tab fold line and configured to be folded towards the mounting arm panel about the second tab fold line.

Ex3. A container according to Ex1 or Ex2, wherein the first tab fold line extends along the mounting arm panel in a longitudinal direction.

Ex4. A container according to any one of Ex1 to Ex3, wherein the first tab fold line extends along a first longitudinal edge of the mounting arm panel.

Ex5. A container according to any one of Ex1 to Ex4, wherein the mounting arm further comprises a spacing element configured to provide a predetermined gap between the box back wall and a vent when the mounting arm is inserted into the vent.

Ex6. A container according to Ex5, wherein the spacing element comprises a spacing panel extending from the mounting arm panel along a spacing panel fold line.

Ex7. A container according to Ex6, wherein the spacing panel fold line extends along the mounting arm panel in a longitudinal direction.

Ex8. A container according to Ex6 or Ex7, wherein the spacing panel fold line extends along the first longitudinal edge of the mounting arm panel.

Ex9. A container according to any one of Ex6 to Ex8, wherein the spacing panel fold line is disposed between the first tab fold line and the mounting arm hinge line.

Ex10. A container according to any one of Ex6 to Ex9, wherein the first tab fold line extends from the spacing panel fold line towards the mounting arm panel distal edge.

Ex11 . A container according to any one of Ex5 to Ex10, wherein one or both of the spacing panel fold line and the spacing panel has a length of between about 5 millimetres and about 15 millimetres, between about 5 millimetres and about 12 millimetres or between about 5 millimetres and between about 10 millimetres.

Ex12. A container according to any one of Ex5 to Ex11 , wherein one or both of the spacing panel fold line and the spacing panel has a length of about 5 millimetres, about 6 millimetres, about 7 millimetres, about 8 millimetres, about 9 millimetres or about 10 millimetres.

Ex13. A container according to any one of Ex1 to Ex12, wherein the container comprises a locking mechanism for locking the mounting arm in the second position.

Ex14. A container according to Ex13, wherein the locking mechanism comprises a slit and a locking tab, the locking tab being configured to be inserted into the slit to lock the mounting arm in the second position.

Ex15. A container according to Ex13 or Ex14, wherein the box comprises the slit

Ex16. A container according to Ex15, wherein the slit is disposed in the box back wall.

Ex17. A container according to Ex15, wherein the slit is disposed in the first box side wall. Ex18. A container according to any one of Ex13 to Ex17, wherein the mounting arm comprises the locking tab.

Ex19. A container according to Ex18, wherein the mounting arm comprises a locking panel extending from the mounting arm panel along a locking panel fold line and the locking tab extends from the locking panel along a locking tab fold line.

Ex20. A container according to Ex19, when dependent on Ex6 to Ex12, wherein the locking panel is the spacing panel.

Ex21 . A container according to any one of Ex1 to Ex20, wherein the first tab is configured to retain the mounting arm in a vent by forming an interference fit between vent guide vanes. Ex22. A container according to any one of Ex1 to Ex21 , wherein the first tab has a surface having a surface roughness of 0.8 micrometres or more, a surface roughness of 1.2 micrometres or more, a surface roughness of 1.5 micrometres or more, or a surface roughness of 2 micrometres or more.

Ex23. A container according to any one of Ex1 to Ex22, wherein the second tab has a surface having a surface roughness of 0.8 micrometres or more, a surface roughness of 1 .2 micrometres or more, a surface roughness of 1.5 micrometres or more, or a surface roughness of 2 micrometres or more.

Ex24. A container according to any one of Ex1 to Ex23, wherein the mounting arm panel has a surface having a surface roughness of 0.8 micrometres or more, a surface roughness of 1.2 micrometres or more, a surface roughness of 1.5 micrometres or more, or a surface roughness of 2 micrometres or more.

Ex25. A container according to any one of Ex1 to Ex24, wherein the first tab has a length greater than about 50 percent of a length between the mounting arm panel distal edge and the mounting arm hinge line, for example greater than about 55 percent, greater than about 60 percent, greater than about 65 percent, greater than about 70 percent, greater than about 75 percent or greater than about 80 percent.

Ex26. A container according to any one of Ex1 to Ex25, wherein the first tab has a length substantially the same as a length between the mounting arm hinge line and the mounting arm panel distal edge.

Ex27. A container according to any one of Ex1 to Ex26, wherein the first tab is configured to retain the mounting arm in a vent by abutting a rear surface of a vent guide vane received between a proximal edge of the first tab and the box back wall.

Ex28. A container according to Ex27, wherein the first is configured to form a hook.

Ex29. A container according to any one of Ex1 to Ex24, Ex27 or Ex28, wherein a proximal edge of the first tab is spaced from the mounting arm hinge line in a longitudinal direction. Ex30. A container according to claim 29, wherein the proximal edge of the first tab is spaced from the mounting arm hinge line in a longitudinal direction by between about 10 millimetres and about 50 millimetres, between about 10 millimetres and about 45 millimetres, between about 10 millimetres and about 40 millimetres, between about 10 millimetres and about 35 millimetres, between about 10 millimetres and about 30 millimetres, between about 10 millimetres and about 25 millimetres or between about 10 millimetres and about 20 millimetres.

Ex31 . A container according to any one of Ex1 to Ex30, wherein the first tab is disposed at the mounting arm panel distal end.

Ex32. A container according to any one of Ex1 to Ex31 , wherein the first tab fold line extends from the mounting arm panel distal edge towards, and is spaced apart from, the mounting arm hinge line.

Ex33. A container according to Ex32, wherein the first tab fold line is spaced from the mounting arm hinge line by between about 10 millimetres and about 50 millimetres, between about 10 millimetres and about 45 millimetres, between about 10 millimetres and about 40 millimetres, between about 10 millimetres and about 35 millimetres, between about 10 millimetres and about 30 millimetres, between about 10 millimetres and about 25 millimetres or between about 10 millimetres and about 20 millimetres.

Ex34. A container according to any one of Ex1 to Ex33, wherein the first tab defines an internal angle between the first tab fold line and a proximal edge of the first tab less than about 90 degrees.

Ex35. A container according to any one of Ex1 to Ex34, wherein the first tab defines an internal angle between the first tab fold line and a proximal edge of the first tab of between about 20 degrees and about 70 degrees, between about 30 degrees and about 60 degrees, preferably about 45 degrees.

Ex36. A container according to any one of Ex1 to Ex35, wherein the first tab defines an internal angle between the first tab fold line and a distal edge of the first tab less than about 90 degrees.

Ex37. A container according to any one of Ex1 to Ex36, wherein the first tab defines an internal angle between the first tab fold line and a distal edge of the first tab of between about 20 degrees and about 70 degrees, between about 30 degrees and about 60 degrees, preferably about 45 degrees.

Ex38. A container according to any one of Ex1 to Ex37, wherein the first tab is square, rectangular, triangular or trapezoidal in shape.

Ex39. A container according to any one of Ex1 to Ex38, wherein the first tab has a length of between about 10 millimetres and about 50 millimetres, between about 15 millimetres and about 50 millimetres, between about 20 millimetres and about 50 millimetres, between about 25 millimetres and about 50 millimetres, or between about 30 millimetres and about 50 millimetres.

Ex40. A container according to any one of Ex1 to Ex39, wherein the first tab has a length of about 25 millimetres, about 30 millimetres, about 35 millimetres, about 40 millimetres, about 45 millimetres or about 50 millimetres.

Ex41 . A container according to any one of Ex1 to E38, wherein the first tab has a length of between about 5 millimetres and about 30 millimetres, between about 5 millimetres and about 25 millimetres, between about 5 millimetres and about 20 millimetres, between about 5 millimetres and about 15 millimetres, or between about 10 millimetres and about 15 millimetres.

Ex42. A container according to any one of Ex1 to Ex38, wherein the first tab has a length of about 10 millimetres, about 11 millimetres, about 12 millimetres, about 13 millimetres, about 14 millimetres or about 15 millimetres.

Ex43. A container according to any one of Ex1 to Ex42, wherein the first tab comprises a first tab hook portion and a first tab interference portion.

Ex44. A container according to Ex43, wherein the first tab hook portion is distal to the first tab interference portion.

Ex45. A container according to Ex43 or Ex44, wherein the first tab hook portion and the first tab interference portion are separated by a cut line.

Ex46. A container according to Ex45, wherein the cut line extends from the first tab fold line. Ex47. A container according to any one of Ex43 to Ex46, wherein the first tab hook portion and the first tab interference portion are each independently foldable towards the mounting arm panel about the first tab fold line.

Ex48. A container according to any one of Ex43 to Ex47, wherein the first tab hook portion defines an internal angle between the first tab fold line and a proximal edge of the first tab hook portion less than about 90 degrees.

Ex49. A container according to any one of Ex43 to Ex48, wherein the first tab hook portion defines an internal angle between the first tab fold line and a proximal edge of the first tab hook portion is between about 20 degrees and about 70 degrees, between about 30 degrees and about 60 degrees, preferably about 45 degrees.

Ex50. A container according to any one of Ex43 to Ex49, wherein the first tab hook portion is triangular or trapezoidal in shape.

Ex51 . A container according to any one of Ex1 to Ex50, wherein the mounting arm hinge line extends between an edge that connects the box back wall and the first box side wall and an edge that connects the box back wall and the second box side wall. Ex52. A container according to any one of Ex1 to Ex51 , wherein the mounting arm hinge line extends from an edge that connects the box back wall and the first box side wall to an edge that connects the box back wall and the second box side wall.

Ex53. A container according to any one of Ex1 to Ex52, wherein the mounting arm hinge line is substantially parallel to an edge that connects the box back wall and the box bottom wall.

Ex54. A container according to any one of Ex1 to Ex53, wherein the mounting arm hinge line extends along the edge separating the box back wall and the box bottom wall.

Ex55. A container according to any one of Ex1 to Ex54, wherein the mounting arm panel has a transverse dimension substantially the same as a width of the box back wall.

Ex56. A container according to any one of Ex51 to Ex55, wherein the first tab is configured to overlie at least a portion of the first box side wall when the mounting arm is in the first position.

Ex57. A container according to any one of Ex1 to Ex50, wherein the mounting arm is a first mounting arm and the mounting arm hinge line is a first mounting arm hinge line, wherein the first mounting arm hinge line extends along an edge separating the box back wall and the first box side wall, the container further comprising: a second mounting arm, comprising: a second mounting arm panel connected to the box by a second mounting arm hinge line extending along an edge separating the box backwall and the second box side wall, the second mounting arm configured to pivot about the second mounting arm hinge line between a first position in which the second mounting arm panel overlies at least a portion of the box back wall, and a second position in which the second mounting arm panel extends substantially away from the box; and a third tab extending from the second mounting arm panel along a third tab fold line and configured to be folded towards the second mounting arm panel about the third tab fold line.

Ex58. A container according to Ex57, wherein the first tab is configured to overlie at least a portion of the box back wall when the first mounting arm is in the first position.

Ex59. A container according to Ex57 or Ex58, wherein the second tab is configured to overlie at least a portion of the box back wall when the first mounting arm is in the first position.

Ex60. A container according to any one of Ex57 to Ex59, wherein the third tab is configured to overlie at least a portion of the box back wall when the second mounting arm is in the first position. Ex61 . A container according to any one of Ex57 to Ex60, wherein the second mounting arm comprises a fourth tab, the fourth tab extending from the second mounting arm panel along a fourth tab fold line and configured to be folded towards the second mounting arm panel about the fourth tab fold line.

Ex62. A container according to Ex61 , wherein the fourth tab is configured to overlie at least a portion of the box back wall when the second mounting arm is in the first position.

Ex63. A container according to any one of Ex1 to Ex62, wherein the container further comprises a lid connected to the box by a lid hinge line extending across the box back wall and configured to pivot about the lid hinge line between a closed position in which the lid covers the box opening and an open position in which the box opening is uncovered.

Ex64. A container according to any one of Ex1 to Ex62, wherein the container further comprises a lid connected to the box by a lid hinge line extending across the first box side wall or the second box side wall and configured to pivot about the lid hinge line between a closed position in which the lid covers the box opening and an open position in which the box opening is uncovered.

Ex65. A container according to any one of Ex1 to Ex64, wherein the container further comprises a scent-releasing element.

Ex66. A container according to Ex65, wherein the scent-releasing element is disposed on an outer surface of the box.

Ex67. A container according to Ex65, wherein the scent-releasing element is disposed on a surface of the mounting arm.

Ex68. A container according to any one of Ex65 to Ex67, wherein the scent-releasing element is disposed on one or more of: the box back wall, the first box side wall, the second box side wall, the mounting arm panel and the first tab.

Ex69. A container according to any one of Ex65 to Ex68, wherein the scent-releasing element is covered by a removable seal.

Ex70. A container according to Ex69, wherein the removable seal is a plastic film.

Ex71 . A container according to Ex1 to Ex70, wherein at least the box and one or more of: the mounting arm, the mounting arm panel and the first tab are formed from a single laminar blank.

Ex72. A container according to Ex1 to Ex71 , wherein at least the box and one or more of: the mounting arm, the mounting arm panel, the first tab and the second tab are formed from a single laminar blank.

Ex73. A container according to Ex1 to Ex72, wherein at least the box and one or more of: the first mounting arm, the first mounting arm panel, the second mounting arm, the second mounting arm panel, the first tab, the second tab, the third tab and the fourth tab are formed from a single laminar blank.

Ex74. A laminar blank for forming the container of any one of Ex1 to Ex73.

Ex75. A kit of parts comprising: a box comprising: a box back wall, a first box side wall, a second box side wall, a box bottom wall and a box opening for accessing consumer goods housed in the box, the box opening disposed opposite the box bottom wall, the box back wall having a slit; a mounting arm laminar blank comprising: a mounting arm panel; a first tab extending from the mounting arm panel along a first tab fold line and configured to be folded towards the mounting arm panel about the first tab fold line; and a connecting panel extending from the mounting arm panel along a connecting panel fold line, wherein the connecting panel is configured to be inserted into the slit of the box back wall to form a container according to any one of Ex1 to Ex73.

Ex76. A method of mounting a container according to any one of Ex1 to 73 to a vent having vent guide vanes, the method comprising: moving the mounting arm from the first position to the second position; folding the first tab towards the mounting arm panel; inserting the mounting arm and first tab between the vent guide vanes; and releasing the first tab.

Examples will now be further described with reference to the figures in which:

Figure 1 A shows a perspective view of a container according to a first embodiment in which the mounting arm is in the first position;

Figure 1 B shows a perspective view of a container according to the first embodiment in which the mounting arm is in the second position;

Figure 1 C shows a side view of a container according to the first embodiment that has been mounted to a vent;

Figure 1 D shows a rear view of a container according to the first embodiment that has been mounted to a vent;

Figure 1 E shows an overhead view of a laminar blank for forming a container according to the first embodiment;

Figure 2A shows a perspective view of a container according to a second embodiment in which the mounting arm in the first position; Figure 2B shows a perspective view of a container according to the second embodiment in which the mounting arm is in the second position;

Figure 2C shows an overhead view of a laminar blank for forming a container according to the second embodiment;

Figure 3A shows a perspective view of a container according to a third embodiment in which the mounting arm is in the first position;

Figure 3B shows a perspective view of a container according to the third embodiment in which the mounting arm is in the second position;

Figures 3C shows an overhead view of a laminar blank for forming the box and lid of a container according to the third, fourth or fifth embodiment;

Figures 3D shows an overhead view of a laminar blank for forming the mounting arm of a container according to the third embodiment;

Figure 4A shows a perspective view of a container according to a fourth embodiment in which the mounting arm is in the first position;

Figure 4B shows a perspective view of a container according to the fourth embodiment in which the mounting arm is in the second position;

Figure 4C shows a side view of a container according to the fourth embodiment that has been mounted to a vent;

Figure 4D shows a rear view of a container according to the fourth embodiment that has been mounted to a vent;

Figure 4E shows an overhead view of a laminar blank for forming the mounting arm of a container according to the fourth embodiment;

Figure 5A shows a perspective view of a container according to a fifth embodiment in which the mounting arm is in the first position;

Figure 5B shows a perspective view of a container according to the fifth embodiment in which the mounting arm is in the second position;

Figure 5C shows a side view of a container according to the fifth embodiment that has been mounted to a vent;

Figure 5D shows a rear view of a container according to the fourth embodiment that has been mounted to a vent;

Figure 5E shows an overhead view of a laminar blank for forming the mounting arm of a container according to the fifth embodiment;

Figure 6A shows a perspective view of a container according to a sixth embodiment in which the mounting arm is locked in the second position;

Figure 6B shows an overhead view of a laminar blank for forming the mounting arm of a container according to the sixth embodiment; Figure 6C shows an overhead view of a laminar blank for forming the box and lid of a container according to the sixth embodiment;

Figure 7A shows a perspective view of a container according to a seventh embodiment in which the first mounting arm and the second mounting arm are in the first position;

Figure 7B shows a perspective view of a container according to the seventh embodiment in which the first mounting arm and the second mounting arm are in the second position;

Figure 7C shows a side view of a container according to the seventh embodiment that has been mounted to a vent;

Figure 7D shows a rear view of a container according to the seventh embodiment that has been mounted to a vent; and

Figure 7E shows an overhead view of a laminar blank for forming a container according to the seventh embodiment.

Figures 1A and 1 B show a container 1000 according to a first embodiment. The container 1000 comprises a box 1 100. The box 1 100 comprises a box back wall 1 110, a first box side wall (not shown), a second box side wall 1 120, a box bottom wall (not shown) and a box opening (not shown) for accessing consumer goods housed in the box 1 100. The box opening is disposed opposite the box bottom wall. The container 1000 comprises a mounting arm 1200. The mounting arm comprises a mounting arm panel 1210 connected to the box 1100 by a mounting arm hinge line 1220. The mounting arm 1200 is configured to pivot about the mounting arm hinge line between a first position in which the mounting arm panel 1210 overlies at least a portion of the box back wall 11 10, as shown in Figure 1 A, and a second position in which the mounting arm panel 1210 extends substantially away from the box 1 100, as shown in Figure 1 B. The container 1000 further comprises a first tab 1300 extending from the mounting arm panel 1210 along a first tab fold line 1310 and is configured to be folded towards the mounting arm panel 1210 about the first tab fold line 1310.

The mounting arm hinge line 1220 extends from an edge 1101 that connects the box back wall 11 10 and the first box side wall (not shown) to an edge 1 102 that connects the box back wall and the second box side wall 1120. The mounting arm hinge line 1220 is also spaced from the edge 1103 that connects the box back wall 1 110 and the box bottom wall (not shown).

The first tab fold line 1310 extends along the mounting arm panel 1210 in a longitudinal direction. That is, the first tab fold line 1310 extends from the mounting arm hinge line 1220, located at the mounting arm 1200 proximal end, to the mounting arm panel distal edge 1240, located at the mounting arm 1200 distal end. In particular, the first tab fold line 1310 extends along a first longitudinal edge of the mounting arm panel 1210. To aid insertion of the mounting arm into a vent, the internal angle 1320 between the first tab fold line 1310 and the distal edge 1330 of the first tab 1300 is less than 90 degrees.

The container 1000 further comprises a lid 1 104 connected to the box 1100 by a lid hinge line 1 105 extending across the box back wall 11 10 and is configured to pivot about the lid hinge line 1 105 between a closed position in which the lid covers the box opening and an open position in which the box opening is uncovered.

Figure 1 C shows a side view of the container 1000 of Figures 1A and 1 B that is mounted to a vent 1400 having a plurality of vent guide vanes 1410, 1420, 1430, 1440. Figure 1 D shows a rear view of the mounted container 1000 in Figure 1 C. To mount the container to the vent 1400, the consumer first pivots the mounting arm 1200 from the first position to the second position. The consumer then folds the first tab 1300 towards the mounting arm panel 1210 such that the mounting arm 1200 fits in the gap between adjacent vent guide vanes 1430, 1440. The consumer then inserts the mounting arm 1200 between adjacent vent guide vanes 1430, 1440 and releases the first tab 1300. The first tab 1300 attempts to return to its natural, unfolded position whilst between the adjacent vent guide vanes 1430, 1440 and, in doing so, urges against the upper vent guide vane 1430. The action of the first tab 1300 urging against the upper vent guide vane 1430 urges the mounting arm panel 1210 against the lower vent guide vane 1440. This combined action thereby securing the mounting arm 1200 in the vent 1400 by forming an interference fit between the adjacent vent guide vanes 1430, 1440.

Figure 1 E shows a laminar blank 1500 for forming a container 1000 according to the first embodiment. The laminar blank 1500 is shown in an unfolded state.

The laminar blank 1500 comprises a first portion 1510 which comprises a plurality of panels connected by a plurality of fold lines. The plurality of panels include a box back wall 1110, a box front wall 1130, a first box side wall 1 140, a second box side wall 1120 and a box bottom wall 1150. As will be appreciated by one of skill in the art, the panels of the first portion 1510 of the laminar blank 1500 are arranged to be folded about the plurality of fold lines to form the box 1 100 and the lid 1 104 of the container 1000.

The laminar blank 1500 further comprises a second portion 1520 that forms the mounting arm 1200 of the container. The second portion 1520 is connected to the first portion 1520 at a fold line 1521. A cut line 1522 separates the mounting arm panel 1210 and the second box side wall 1120. The cut line 1522 extends from the mounting arm panel distal edge 1240 to the mounting arm hinge line 1220. The first tab 1300 is separated from the second connecting panel 1524 by a cut line 1526. The first tab 1300 is connected to the mounting arm panel 1210 by the first tab fold line 1310. During assembly, the first connecting panel 1523 is glued to the box back wall 11 10. The second connecting panel 1524, connected to the first connecting panel 1523 by a fold line 1525, is glued to the first box side wall 1140.

Figures 2A and 2B show a container 2000 according to a second embodiment in which the mounting arm 2200 is in the first position and the second position, respectively. In the second embodiment, the mounting arm 2200 comprises a second tab 2600. The second tab extends from the mounting arm panel 2210 along a second tab fold line 2610. The second tab is configured to be folded towards the mounting arm panel 2210 about the second tab fold line 2610. The mounting arm hinge line 2220 extends between the edge 2101 that connects the box back wall 2110 and the first box side wall (not shown), and the edge 2102 that connects the box back wall and the second box side wall 2120. However, the mounting arm hinge line 2220 is spaced from the edge 2101 that connects the box back wall 2110 and the first box side wall, and the edge 2102 that connects the box back wall and the second box side wall 2120. Therefore, when the mounting arm 2200 is in the first position, the first tab 2300 and the second tab 2600 overlie the box back wall 2110.

The container 2000 is mounted to a vent in a similar way to the container 1000 of the first embodiment. The difference being that the second tab 2600 is also folded and inserted between the vent guide vanes 1430, 1440. The container further comprises a scent-releasing element 2001 disposed on the box back wall 2110.

Figure 2C shows a laminar blank 2500 for forming a container 2000 according to the second embodiment. The laminar blank 2500 is shown in an unfolded state.

The laminar blank 2500 comprises a first portion 2510 that is identical to the first portion 1510 of the laminar blank 1500 for forming a container 1000 according to the first embodiment. The laminar blank 2500 further comprises a second portion 2520 that forms the mounting arm 2200 of the container 2000. The second portion 2520 is connected to the first portion 2510 at a fold line 2521 .

The first tab 2300 is separated from the first connecting panel 2523 and the second connecting panel 2524 by cut lines 2526, 2528. The first tab 2300 is connected to the mounting arm panel 2210 by the first tab fold line 2310. The second tab 2600 is separated from the second box side wall 2120 and the first connecting panel 2523 by cut lines 2522, 2527. The second tab 2600 is connected to the mounting arm panel 2210 by the second tab fold line 2610.

During assembly of the container 2000, the first connecting panel 2523 is glued to the box back wall 21 10. The second connecting panel 2524, which is connected to the first connecting panel 2523 by a fold line 2525, is glued to the first box side wall 2140. Figures 3A and 3B show a container 3000 according to a third embodiment in which the mounting arm 3200 is in the first position and the second position, respectively. In the third embodiment, the mounting arm hinge line 3220 extends from an edge 3101 that connects the box back wall 31 10 and the first box side wall (not shown), and an edge 3102 that connects the box back wall 31 10 and the second box side wall 3120. Therefore, when the mounting arm 3200 is in the first position, the first tab 3300 overlies the first box side wall (not shown) and the second tab 3600 overlies the second box side wall 3120. In the third embodiment, the mounting arm hinge line 3220 also extends along an edge separating the box back wall 3110 and the box bottom wall (not shown).

Figure 3C shows a laminar blank 3510 for forming the box and lid of a container according to the third embodiment. The laminar blank 3510 may also be used to form the box and lid of a container according to the fourth and fifth embodiments. The laminar blank 3500 is identical to the first portions 1510, 2510 of laminar blanks 1500, 2500 of the first and second embodiments. Figure 3D shows a laminar blank 3520 for forming the mounting arm 3200 of a container 3000 according to the third embodiment. During assembly, the first connecting panel 3523 is glued to the box bottom wall 3150.

Figures 4A and 4B show a container 4000 according to a fourth embodiment in which the mounting arm is in the first position and the second position, respectively. In the fourth embodiment, each of the first tab 4300 and the second tab 4600 comprise a tab hook portion 4340, 4640 and a tab interference portion 4350, 4650. The tab hook portions are distal to the tab interference portions. The tab hook portions and the tab interference portions are separated by cut lines 4351 , 4651 . The tab hook portions and the tab interference portions are each independently foldable towards the mounting arm panel 4210 about the tab fold lines 4310, 4610.

Figure 4C shows a side view of the container 4000 of Figures 4A and 4B mounted to a vent 4400 having a plurality of guide vanes 4410, 4420, 4430, 4440. Figure 4D shows a rear view of the mounted container 4000 in Figure 4C. To mount the container 4000 to the vent 4400, the consumer first pivots the mounting arm from the first position to the second position. The consumer then folds the tab hook portion 4340, 4640 and the tab interference portions 4350, 4650 towards the mounting arm panel 4210 such that the mounting arm will fit in the gap between adjacent vent guide vanes 4430, 4440 of the vent 4400. The consumer then inserts the mounting arm between adjacent vent guide vanes 4430, 4440 and releases the tab hook portion 4340, 4640 and the tab interference portions 4350, 4650.

The tab hook portion 4340, 4640 are distal to the tab interference portions 4350, 4650 and can therefore return to their natural, unfolded positions behind the upper vent guide vane 4430. Thereby, securing the mounting arm in the vent by abutting a rear surface of the upper vent guide vane 4430.

The tab interference portions 4350, 4650 attempt to return to their natural, unfolded positions whilst between the adjacent vent guide vanes 4430, 4440 and, in doing so, urge against the upper vent guide vane 4430. The urging action of the tab interference portions 4350, 4650 urges the mounting arm panel 4210 against the lower vent guide vane 4440. This combined action secures the mounting arm in the vent by forming an interference fit between the adjacent vent guide vanes 4430, 4440.

Figure 4E shows a laminar blank 4520 for forming the mounting arm of a container 4000 according to the fourth embodiment. The laminar blank 4520 may be attached to the laminar blank 3510 of Figure 3C to form the container. During assembly, the first connecting panel 4523 is glued to the box bottom wall 3150.

Figures 5A and 5B show a container 5000 according to a fifth embodiment in which the mounting arm is in the first position and the second position, respectively. In the fifth embodiment, the mounting arm comprises spacing elements. The spacing elements are configured to provide a predetermined gap 5720, as shown in Figure 5C, between the box back wall 51 10 and the vent 5400 when the mounting arm is inserted into the vent. The spacing elements comprise spacing panels 5710, 5720 that extend from the mounting arm panel 5210 along spacing panel fold lines 571 1 , 5721 .

Figure 5C shows a side view of the container 5000 of Figures 5A and 5B mounted to a vent 5400. Figure 5D shows a rear view of the mounted container 5000 in Figure 5C.

Figure 5E shows a laminar blank 5520 for forming the mounting arm of a container 5000 according to the fifth embodiment. The laminar blank 5520 may be attached to the laminar blank 3510 of Figure 3C to form the container. During assembly, the first connecting panel 5523 is attached to the box bottom wall panel 3150.

Figures 6A shows a container 6000 according to a sixth embodiment in which the mounting arm is in the second position. The container has a locking mechanism comprising locking panels 6810, 6820 extending from the mounting arm panel 6210 along locking panel fold lines 681 1 , 6821 and locking tabs 6813, 6823 extending from the locking panels 6810, 6820 along locking tab fold lines 6814, 6824. The locking mechanism further comprises slits 6815, 6825 disposed in the box (as shown in Figure 6C). The locking tabs 6813, 6823 are configured to be inserted into the slits (as shown in Figure 6A) to lock the mounting arm in the second position. The locking panels 6810, 6820 are separated from the first tab 6300 and second tab 6600 by cut lines 6816, 6826.

Figure 6B shows a laminar blank 6520 for forming the mounting arm of a container 6000 according to the sixth embodiment. Figure 6C shows a laminar blank 6510 for forming the box and lid of a container according to the sixth embodiment. The laminar blank 6510 is identical to the laminar blank 3510 of Figure 3C, except for the addition of the locking mechanism slits 6815, 6825. During assembly, the first connecting panel 6523 is glued to the box bottom wall 6150. Alternatively, in some other embodiments, the consumer may be provided a kit of parts comprising an assembled box and the mounting arm laminar blank 6520. In such embodiments, the box will be provided with a slit in the edge separating box back wall 61 10 and the box bottom wall 6150. The consumer may then insert the first connecting panel 6523 into the slit and insert the locking tabs 6813, 6823 into the locking mechanism slits 6815, 6825 to attach the mounting arm to the box.

Figures 7A and 7B shows a container 7000 according to a seventh embodiment. In the seventh embodiment, the container comprises both a first mounting arm 7200 and a second mounting arm 7900. Figure 7A shows the first and second mounting arms in the first position. Figure 7B shows the first and second mounting arms in the second position.

The first mounting arm hinge line 7220 extends along an edge separating the box back wall 71 10 and the first box side wall (not shown). The second mounting arm hinge line 7920 extends along an edge separating the box backwall 7110 and the second box side wall 7120. The second mounting arm 7900 comprises a third tab 7930 extending from the second mounting arm panel 7910 along a third tab fold line and is configured to be folded towards the second mounting arm panel 7910 about the third tab fold line. The second mounting arm 7900 comprises a fourth tab 7940 extending from the second mounting arm panel 7910 along a fourth tab fold line and is configured to be folded towards the second mounting arm panel 7910 about the fourth tab fold line.

Figure 7C shows a side view of the container 7000 of Figures 7A and 7B mounted to a vent 7400 having a plurality of guide vanes 7410, 7420, 7430, 7440. Figure 7D shows a rear view of the mounted container 7000 in Figure 7C.

Figure 7E shows a laminar blank 7500 for forming a container 7000 according to the seventh embodiment. The laminar blank 7500 comprises a first portion 7510 for forming the box and lid of the container. The first portion 7510 of the laminar blank 7500 is identical to the laminar blank 3510 of Figure 3C. The laminar blank comprises a second portion 7520 for forming the first mounting arm 7200 of the container. The second portion is connected to the first box side wall 7140 by the first mounting arm hinge line 7220. The first tab 7300 and the second tab 7600 are separated from the first box side wall 7140 by cut lines 7541 , 7542. The laminar blank 7500 comprises a third portion 7530 for forming the second mounting arm 7900 of the container. The third portion is connected to the second box side wall 7120 by the second mounting arm hinge line 7920. The third tab 7930 and the fourth tab 7940 are separated from the second box side wall 7120 by cut lines 7543, 7544. For the purpose of the present description and of the appended claims, except where otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing amounts, quantities, percentages, and so forth, are to be understood as being modified in all instances by the term "about". Also, all ranges include the maximum and minimum points disclosed and include any intermediate ranges therein, which may or may not be specifically enumerated herein. In this context, therefore, a number A is understood as A ± 5% of A.