Compact Cigarette Holder for Cigarette Packs

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION:

This invention pertains to smoking accessories, specifically to a portable and compact cigarette holder that is designed for easy storage within a standard cigarette pack, while also serving as a temporary stand.

Smoking, commonly pursued for relaxation or stimulation, often leaves behind persistent odors, particularly on the fingers due to direct handling of cigarettes. Traditional cigarette holders were intended to minimize direct hand contact, but their bulk and odor retention post-use often necessitate separate storage, creating inconvenience and the potential for odor transfer to other personal items. This has led many users to avoid carrying such holders altogether. Additionally, smokers occasionally require a convenient place to rest a lit cigarette temporarily, though dedicated stands are not always accessible.

This invention addresses these issues by combining the functions of a holder and a stand in a single, compact design that seamlessly integrates into a standard cigarette pack without occupying space for cigarettes. It is easy to manufacture and can be made from various materials, including wood, metal, cardboard, or plastic, to suit both durable and disposable options.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

This invention provides a thin, elongated cigarette holder designed for portability and convenient storage within a standard cigarette pack. One end of the holder includes two partially overlapping circular openings, enabling it to accommodate cigarettes of different diameters (5-6 mm and 7-8 mm). A slit at the base of these openings enhances flexibility, allowing for a secure yet gentle grip on the cigarette. The opposite end functions as both a grip and a temporary stand, fitting into the cigarette pack lid to hold a lit cigarette when needed.

The holder's compact design allows it to be stored within the cigarette pack without occupying space meant for cigarettes. Users can store between the inner foil lining and the box, minimizing bulk and ensuring easy accessibility. This setup also helps contain tobacco odor within the cigarette pack. Constructed from materials like stainless steel, wood, cardboard, or plastic, the holder can be tailored for durability and cost-effectiveness.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a front view of the cigarette holder.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the cigarette holder.

FIG. 3 is the cigarette holder holding a cigarette.

FIG. 4 is an alternative design of the cigarette holder with a single circular opening sized for a specific cigarette diameter.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the cigarette holder inserted into the lid of a cigarette pack, functioning as a temporary stand.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the cigarette holder stored between the inner foil lining and the paper box of a standard cigarette pack.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The compact cigarette holder is designed for seamless integration within standard cigarette packs and can function as a temporary stand when used with the pack.

As shown in FIG. 1 to FIG. 3, the holder is thin and elongated, with a cigarette insertion end and a grip end. The cigarette end 1 features two partially overlapping circular openings: a larger outer opening 3 for cigarettes with a 7-8 mm diameter and a smaller inner opening 4 for 5-6 mm diameters. A slit 5 at the base of these openings adds flexibility, providing a secure yet moderate grip that keeps the cigarette in place but allows for easy insertion and removal.

In certain embodiments, as shown in FIG. 4, the cigarette end 1 may feature a single opening to fit a specific cigarette diameter, based on user or manufacturer specifications.

To use, the cigarette is inserted perpendicularly, with the filter end fitting into the selected opening (3 or 4). The holder provides a firm enough grip to keep the cigarette securely in place, allowing the user to hold the cigarette in their mouth while the holder remains attached. This enables the smoker to light the cigarette using one hand, leaving the other hand free to shield the flame from the wind if needed.

After smoking, the spent cigarette can be removed by applying external friction, such as with an ashtray, or by manually pushing it out.

The opposite end, the grip end 2, includes an opening and a slit 6, allowing it to be inserted into the lid of a cigarette pack, forming a stable stand (see FIG. 5). When placed on a flat surface, the cigarette pack acts as a base, holding the holder at an angle that keeps the cigarette mouthpiece elevated and the ash directed away from the pack, depending on the insertion angle.

The holder is compact enough to store inside a cigarette pack (FIG. 6), either alongside the cigarettes or between the inner foil and the outer shell. This storage method reduces odor transfer to other items and keeps the holder readily accessible.

The holder is designed to be manufactured from a single piece of material, with options including wood, cardboard, metal, and plastic. Material choice may vary depending on the intended use:

In some embodiments, the holder is made of stainless steel, which is durable and heat-resistant, though it may feel cold in low temperatures. An insulating layer can be added to the grip end 2 for comfort.

In some embodiments, the holder is made of wood which is Lightweight and easy to grip but less heat-resistant, so users should avoid placing the holder too close to the cigarette burning area. Wood holders may need periodic replacement.

In some embodiments, the holder is made from biodegradable materials, such as cardboard, which is cost-effective and disposable, with the holder supplied with each new cigarette pack and discarded with the empty pack.

The holder can be produced using various methods, including hand-cutting, 3D printing, laser cutting, or CNC machining, making it feasible for both large-scale production and individual creation.