An aerosol-generating article comprising an aerosol-cooling element having an elongate protrusion

Abstract

An aerosol-generating article (10) for generating an aerosol upon heating is provided. The aerosol-generating article (10) comprises a rod of aerosol-generating substrate (12) and an aerosol-cooling element (16) positioned downstream of the rod of aerosol-generating substrate (12). The aerosol-cooling element (16) comprises a hollow tubular segment (8) comprising a peripheral wall (24). The hollow tubular segment (8) extends along a longitudinal axis and has fluidly communicating upstream and downstream ends. The hollow tubular segment (8) comprises at least one elongate protrusion (26) extending from the peripheral wall (24) into an interior of the hollow tubular segment (8). The at least one elongate protrusion (26) extends longitudinally from an upstream location on the peripheral wall (24) to a downstream location on the peripheral wall (24) downstream of the upstream location. The aerosol-generating article (10) further comprises a wrapper (18) surrounding the rod of aerosol-generating substrate (12) and the first aerosol-cooling element (16).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to an aerosol cooling element for use in an aerosol generating article, the aerosol generating article including an aerosol generating matrix and adapted to generate an inhalable aerosol upon heating, and an aerosol generating article including such an aerosol cooling element. Background Technology

[0002] Aerosol-generating articles are known in the art in which the aerosol-generating matrix (such as a tobacco-containing matrix) is heated rather than burned. Typically, in such heated smoking articles, an aerosol is generated by transferring heat from a heat source to a physically separated aerosol-generating matrix or material, which may be positioned in contact with, within, around, or downstream of the heat source. During use of the aerosol-generating article, volatile compounds are released from the aerosol-generating matrix via heat transfer from the heat source and entrained in the air inhaled through the aerosol-generating article. As the released compounds cool, they condense to form an aerosol.

[0003] Numerous prior art documents disclose aerosol generating apparatuses for consuming aerosol generating articles. Such apparatuses include, for example, electrically heated aerosol generating apparatuses, wherein aerosols are generated by transferring heat from one or more electrically heated elements of the aerosol generating apparatus to the aerosol generating matrix of the heated aerosol generating article.

[0004] In the past, randomly oriented fragments, strips, or bars of tobacco material were typically used to produce matrices for heated aerosol-generating articles. Recently, alternative matrices for heated rather than combusted aerosol-generating articles have been disclosed, such as bars formed from aggregated sheets of tobacco material. For example, the bar disclosed in International Patent Application WO-A-2012 / 164009 has a longitudinal porosity that allows air to be drawn through the bar. As another alternative, International Patent Application WO-A-2011 / 101164 discloses bars for heated aerosol-generating articles formed from strips of homogenized tobacco material, which can be formed by casting, rolling, calendering, or extruding a mixture comprising particulate tobacco and at least one aerosol-forming agent to form a sheet of homogenized tobacco material. In another embodiment, the strip of WO-A-2011 / 101164 may be formed from strips of homogenized tobacco material obtained by extruding a mixture comprising particulate tobacco and at least one aerosol forming agent to form a continuous length of homogenized tobacco material.

[0005] The matrix used in articles for heating aerosol generation typically also includes an aerosol forming agent, which is a compound or mixture of compounds that promotes aerosol formation during use and is preferably substantially resistant to thermal degradation at the operating temperature of the aerosol generating article. Examples of suitable aerosol forming agents include, but are not limited to: polyols, such as propylene glycol, triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol, and glycerol; esters of polyols, such as glycerol monoacetate, glycerol diacetate, or glycerol triacetate; and fatty acid esters of monocarboxylic acids, dicarboxylic acids, or polycarboxylic acids, such as dimethyl dodecanoate and dimethyl tetradecanoate.

[0006] It is also common to include one or more additional elements in aerosol-generating articles used to produce inhalable aerosols upon heating, said additional elements being assembled with the matrix in the same package. Examples of such additional elements include mouthpiece filter sections and support elements adapted to impart structural strength to the aerosol-generating article.

[0007] It is also proposed to include a cooling element in the aerosol-generating article for generating an inhalable aerosol upon heating, the cooling element being adapted to cool the aerosol before it reaches the mouthpiece. For example, WO 2013 / 120565 discloses an aerosol-generating article comprising an aerosol-forming matrix and an aerosol cooling element located downstream of the aerosol-forming matrix within a strip. In an embodiment, the aerosol-generating element comprises a rolled sheet of polylactic acid (PLA) aggregated to define a plurality of longitudinally extending channels. When the aerosol stream is drawn through the aerosol cooling element, heat can be transferred from the aerosol to the PLA sheet.

[0008] When aerosol-generated articles of the aforementioned type are used in particularly hot and humid weather conditions (such as those frequently encountered in countries with tropical climates), the mouthpiece of the article may reach temperatures as high as 42 to 45 degrees Celsius. These temperatures may be associated with discomfort or mild pain for some consumers because sensitive tissues such as the lips, mouth, tongue, and mucous membranes are typically in direct contact with the mouthpiece surface during use. Without being bound by theory, this should be understood as this is because thermoreceptors, which respond to increases in skin temperature, react most rapidly at approximately 45 degrees Celsius. In contrast, when skin temperature is around 30 to 36 degrees Celsius, thermoreceptors are spontaneously active but generally do not evoke a sense of warmth (neutral heat zone). Additionally, the skin contains heat receptors called heat injury receptors, which cause pain when skin temperature rises above 45 degrees Celsius. This is because temperature-responsive nociceptors are designed to signal the central nervous system that tissue damage may be imminent and that the affected body part should be immediately removed from the heat source.

[0009] Therefore, it is desirable to provide a novel and improved aerosol cooling element for aerosol-generating articles, suitable for optimizing the cooling of aerosols delivered to consumers. It is also desirable to provide a novel and improved aerosol cooling element for aerosol-generating articles, suitable for optimizing the cooling of the nozzle surface of the article, which may come into contact with the consumer's sensitive tissues during use. Simultaneously, it is desirable to provide such aerosol-generating articles that can be manufactured efficiently and at high speed without requiring significant modifications to existing equipment and apparatus. Summary of the Invention

[0010] This invention relates to an aerosol cooling element configured for use in an aerosol generating article. The aerosol cooling element may include a hollow tubular segment comprising a peripheral wall. The hollow tubular segment may extend along a longitudinal axis and may have an upstream end and a downstream end in fluid communication. The hollow tubular segment may include at least one elongated protrusion extending from the peripheral wall into the interior of the hollow tubular segment. The at least one elongated protrusion extends longitudinally from an upstream position on the peripheral wall to a downstream position on the peripheral wall.

[0011] According to a first aspect of this disclosure, an aerosol generating element configured for use in an aerosol generating article is provided. The aerosol cooling element includes a hollow tubular segment comprising a peripheral wall. The hollow tubular segment extends along a longitudinal axis and has an upstream end and a downstream end in fluid communication. The hollow tubular segment includes at least one elongated protrusion extending from the peripheral wall into the interior of the hollow tubular segment. The at least one elongated protrusion may extend longitudinally from an upstream position on the peripheral wall to a downstream position on the peripheral wall.

[0012] The term "aerosol-generating article" is used herein with reference to this invention to describe articles in which an aerosol-generating matrix is ​​heated to generate an aerosol and delivered to a consumer. This is especially relevant if the matrix used is capable of releasing volatile compounds upon heating to generate an aerosol.

[0013] A conventional cigarette is ignited when a smoker applies a flame to one end and inhales air through the other end. The localized heat provided by the flame and oxygen in the air inhaled through the cigarette ignites the end of the cigarette, and the resulting combustion produces inhalable smoke. In contrast, in heated aerosol-generating articles, aerosols are generated by heating a flavor-generating matrix, such as tobacco. Heated aerosol-generating articles include, for example, electrically heated aerosol-generating articles, and aerosol-generating articles in which aerosols are generated by heat transfer from a combustible fuel element or heat source to a physically separate aerosol-forming material. For example, the aerosol-generating articles according to the invention find particular application in aerosol-generating systems that include electrically heated aerosol-generating devices having internal heater blades adapted to be inserted into strips of the aerosol-generating matrix. This type of aerosol-generating article is described in the prior art (e.g., in European patent application EP 0822670).

[0014] As used herein, the term "aerosol generating apparatus" refers to an apparatus that includes a heater element that interacts with an aerosol generating matrix of an aerosol generating article to generate an aerosol.

[0015] During use, volatile compounds are released from the aerosol-generating matrix via heat transfer and are entrained in the air drawn through the aerosol-generating article. When the released compounds cool, they condense to form an aerosol inhaled by the consumer.

[0016] As used herein, the term "tubular element" refers to an elongated element that defines a lumen or airflow passage along its longitudinal axis. In the context of this specification, the term "tubular" is intended to cover any tubular element having a generally cylindrical cross-section that defines at least one airflow conduit establishing fluid communication between an upstream end and a downstream end of the tubular element. As used herein with reference to the invention, the term "hollow" is used to describe a tubular element that defines an internal empty space, such as a chamber or cavity.

[0017] As used herein, the term "longitudinal" refers to the direction corresponding to the main longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating article, which extends between the upstream and downstream ends of the aerosol-generating article. As used herein, the terms "upstream" and "downstream" describe the relative position of an element or portion of an element of the aerosol-generating article with respect to the direction in which the aerosol is transported through the aerosol-generating article during use. During use, air is drawn through the aerosol-generating article in the longitudinal direction. The term "transverse" refers to the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. Unless otherwise stated, any reference to the "cross section" of the aerosol-generating article or a component of the aerosol-generating article refers to the transverse cross section.

[0018] The term "length" refers to the maximum dimension of a component of an aerosol-generating article in the longitudinal direction. For example, it can be used to refer to the dimension of a strip or tubular element in the longitudinal direction. In particular, in the context of this invention, the term "length of a tubular element" is used to refer to the maximum distance between the upstream and downstream ends of a tubular element.

[0019] The term "peripheral wall" refers to the wall that defines the periphery of a hollow tubular segment. The term "periphery" refers to an element or feature located at such a periphery.

[0020] The term "elongated protrusion" refers to a protrusion or projection that is long relative to its width and thickness. For example, an elongated protrusion may include a flat surface. The height, circumferential, and radial positions of the elongated protrusion are obtained with reference to its base. The elongated protrusion connects at its base to the inner surface of the peripheral wall of the hollow tubular segment. The base of the elongated protrusion refers to the portion of the elongated protrusion that connects to the inner surface of the peripheral wall of the hollow tubular segment. The base of the elongated protrusion defines its longitudinal or axial position, circumferential position, and radial position. For example, the radial position of an upstream location of the elongated protrusion refers to the radial position of the upstream location of the base of the elongated protrusion.

[0021] The term "radial position" refers to the direction along the radius from the center of an object, which in this disclosure is a hollow tubular element, an aerosol cooling element, or an aerosol generating article. In other words, a specific radial position of an elongated protrusion or a portion thereof refers to the position and distance of the elongated protrusion or a portion thereof relative to the central axis of the hollow tubular segment.

[0022] The term "circumferential position" refers to the direction along a circumference defined relative to the center (or central axis) of an object, which in this disclosure is a hollow tubular element, an aerosol cooling element, or an aerosol generating article. In other words, a specific circumferential position of an elongated protrusion or a portion thereof refers to the position and distance of the elongated protrusion or a portion thereof along a circumference defined relative to the central axis of the hollow tubular segment.

[0023] The term "thickness of the peripheral wall of a tubular element" is used in this specification to refer to the minimum distance measured between the outer and inner surfaces of the wall of a tubular element. In practice, the distance at a given location is measured along opposite sides of the wall, which is locally substantially perpendicular to the tubular element. For a substantially cylindrical tubular element, i.e., a tubular element with a substantially circular cross-section, the thickness of the peripheral wall is evaluated as the distance between the outer and inner surfaces of the peripheral wall, measured along the substantially radial direction of the tubular element.

[0024] The term "impermeable material" is used throughout this specification to mean a material that does not allow fluids, especially air and flue gas, to pass through its voids or pores. If the tubular support element is formed of a material that is impermeable to air and aerosol particles, then air and aerosol particles drawn through the support element are forced to flow through the airflow duct, but cannot flow through the walls of the support element.

[0025] In contrast, the term "porous" is used in this document to refer to a material that provides multiple holes or openings that allow air to pass through it.

[0026] As used in this specification, the term "homogenized tobacco material" encompasses any tobacco material formed by the agglomeration of tobacco material particles. Homogenized tobacco material sheets or webs are formed by agglomerating particulate tobacco, which is obtained by grinding or otherwise pulverizing one or both of tobacco leaves and tobacco stems. Additionally, homogenized tobacco material may include small amounts of one or more of tobacco dust, tobacco particles, and other particulate tobacco byproducts formed during tobacco processing, handling, and transportation. Homogenized tobacco material sheets can be produced by casting, extrusion, papermaking processes, or any other suitable process known in the art.

[0027] In the aerosol-generating article according to the invention, the aerosol cooling element is adapted to reduce the temperature of the aerosol flowing through the article, while homogenizing the flow of the aerosol and precisely controlling how the aerosol flow is delivered to the consumer's mouth.

[0028] More specifically, it has been found that the structure and features of the aerosol cooling element consistently reduce the temperature of the gas flow in the article below a threshold that may be related to consumer discomfort or pain. It should be understood, without being bound by theory, that in the aerosol cooling element and aerosol-generating article according to the invention, the heat of the aerosol flowing through the article is readily dissipated as the material of the aerosol cooling element is heated by conduction and convection. Simultaneously, at least one elongated protrusion extending into the interior of the aerosol cooling element increases the internal surface area of ​​the aerosol cooling element. Increasing the internal surface area of ​​the aerosol cooling element means having more surface area for heat transfer between the aerosol flow and the material of the aerosol cooling element. Therefore, the temperature of the flowing aerosol is reduced, and overheating of the outer surface of the article, which may come into contact with the consumer's lips during use, is advantageously prevented, even when the article is used in particularly hot and humid weather conditions.

[0029] In addition to enhancing heat transfer between the aerosol cooling element and the flowing aerosol, at least one elongated protrusion partially blocks and diverts heated aerosol entering and flowing through the aerosol cooling element. The elongated protrusion also generates turbulence in the flowing aerosol, promoting mixing of the aerosol with cooler air already present in the aerosol cooling element. Therefore, this effect further enhances the cooling performance of the aerosol cooling element.

[0030] Furthermore, the aerosol cooling element and aerosol generating article according to the present invention can be manufactured in a continuous process, and their production can be easily realized at high speed and integrated into existing production lines for manufacturing heated aerosol generating articles without requiring extensive modifications to the manufacturing equipment.

[0031] Aerosol cooling elements can be made of materials with relatively high heat capacity, enabling them to absorb the heat energy carried by the aerosol flowing through the article without causing a significant increase in the element's temperature. For example, aerosol cooling elements can be made of cellulose-based compounds, including thermoplastic paper compounds. As another example, aerosol cooling elements can be made of polylactic acid (PLA) or polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA).

[0032] At least one elongated protrusion may be made of the same material as the rest of the aerosol cooling element. For example, at least one elongated protrusion may be made of a cellulose-based compound, including thermoplastic paper compounds. As another example, at least one elongated protrusion may be made of polylactic acid (PLA) or polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA). At least one elongated protrusion may be prepared by injection molding or other extrusion techniques.

[0033] The length of the aerosol cooling element can be from about 5 mm to about 35 mm. In some embodiments, the length of the aerosol cooling element is from about 5 mm to about 25 mm, or from about 5 mm to about 20 mm, or from about 5 mm to about 19 mm.

[0034] Preferably, the length of the aerosol cooling element is at least about 8 mm. More preferably, the length of the aerosol cooling element is at least about 9 mm. The length of the aerosol cooling element is preferably less than or equal to about 30 mm, or about 8 mm to about 25 mm, or about 8 mm to about 20 mm, or about 8 mm to about 19 mm. More preferably, the length of the aerosol cooling element is less than or equal to about 25 mm. Even more preferably, the length of the aerosol cooling element is less than or equal to about 20 mm. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the length of the aerosol cooling element is less than or equal to 19 mm.

[0035] In a preferred embodiment, the length of the aerosol cooling element is about 8 mm to about 30 mm, or about 8 mm to about 25 mm, or about 8 mm to about 20 mm, or about 8 mm to about 19 mm, more preferably about 9 mm to about 30 mm, or about 9 mm to about 25 mm, or about 9 mm to about 20 mm, or about 9 mm to about 19 mm.

[0036] Preferably, the thickness of the peripheral wall of the hollow tubular segment is at least about 0.2 mm. More preferably, the thickness of the peripheral wall of the hollow tubular segment is at least about 0.5 mm. Even more preferably, the thickness of the peripheral wall of the hollow tubular segment is at least about 1 mm. The thickness of the peripheral wall of the hollow tubular segment is preferably less than or equal to 3.5 mm. More preferably, the thickness of the peripheral wall of the hollow tubular segment is less than or equal to 3 mm. Even more preferably, the thickness of the peripheral wall of the hollow tubular segment is less than or equal to about 2.5 mm.

[0037] In some embodiments, the thickness of the peripheral wall of the hollow tubular segment is about 0.2 mm to about 3.5 mm, or about 0.2 mm to about 3 mm, or about 0.2 mm to about 2.5 mm. In other embodiments, the thickness of the peripheral wall of the hollow tubular segment is about 0.5 mm to about 3.5 mm, or about 0.5 mm to about 3 mm, or about 0.5 mm to about 2.5 mm. In other embodiments, the thickness of the peripheral wall of the hollow tubular segment is about 1 mm to about 3.5 mm, or about 1 mm to about 3 mm, or about 1 mm to about 2.5 mm.

[0038] In some preferred embodiments, the thickness of the peripheral wall of the hollow tubular segment is from about 0.2 mm to about 3.5 mm, more preferably from about 0.5 mm to about 3 mm, and even more preferably from about 1 mm to about 2.5 mm.

[0039] Preferably, the outer diameter of the hollow tubular segment is at least about 3 mm. More preferably, the outer diameter of the hollow tubular segment is at least about 4 mm. Even more preferably, the outer diameter of the hollow tubular segment is at least about 5 mm. The outer diameter of the hollow tubular segment is preferably less than or equal to about 13 mm. More preferably, the outer diameter of the hollow tubular segment is less than or equal to about 10 mm. Even more preferably, the outer diameter of the hollow tubular segment is less than or equal to about 8 mm.

[0040] In some embodiments, the outer diameter of the hollow tubular segment is about 3 mm to about 13 mm, or about 3 mm to about 10 mm, or about 3 mm to about 8 mm. In other embodiments, the outer diameter of the hollow tubular segment is about 4 mm to about 13 mm, or about 4 mm to about 10 mm, or about 4 mm to about 8 mm. In other embodiments, the outer diameter of the hollow tubular segment is about 5 mm to about 13 mm, or about 5 mm to about 10 mm, or about 5 mm to about 8 mm.

[0041] In a preferred embodiment, the outer diameter of the hollow tubular segment is about 3 mm to about 13 mm, more preferably about 4 mm to about 10 mm, and even more preferably about 5 mm to about 8 mm. In some embodiments, the outer diameter of the hollow tubular segment is about 4 mm to about 8 mm.

[0042] Preferably, the inner diameter of the hollow tubular segment is at least about 2 mm. More preferably, the inner diameter of the hollow tubular segment is at least about 3 mm. Even more preferably, the inner diameter of the hollow tubular segment is at least about 4 mm. The inner diameter of the hollow tubular segment is preferably less than or equal to about 10 mm. More preferably, the inner diameter of the hollow tubular segment is less than or equal to about 7.5 mm. Even more preferably, the inner diameter of the hollow tubular segment is less than or equal to about 6 mm.

[0043] In some embodiments, the inner diameter of the hollow tubular segment is about 2 mm to about 10 mm, or about 2 mm to about 7.5 mm, or about 2 mm to about 6 mm. In other embodiments, the inner diameter of the hollow tubular segment is about 3 mm to about 10 mm, or about 3 mm to about 7.5 mm, or about 3 mm to about 6 mm. In other embodiments, the inner diameter of the hollow tubular segment is about 4 mm to about 10 mm, or about 4 mm to about 7.5 mm, or about 4 mm to about 6 mm.

[0044] In a preferred embodiment, the inner diameter of the hollow tubular segment is about 2 mm to about 10 mm, more preferably about 3 mm to about 7.5 mm, and even more preferably about 4 mm to about 6 mm. In some embodiments, the inner diameter of the hollow tubular segment is about 3 mm to about 7.5 mm.

[0045] In some preferred embodiments, at least one elongated protrusion extends radially from the peripheral wall toward the central axis of the hollow tubular segment. By extending radially along the hollow tubular segment of the aerosol cooling element, the at least one elongated protrusion disturbs and blocks the incoming flowing aerosol as much as possible to promote turbulence in the flowing aerosol. As mentioned above, turbulence contributes to the cooling effect provided by the aerosol cooling element.

[0046] In some preferred embodiments, the height of at least one elongated protrusion varies between an upstream and downstream location. This "height of at least one elongated protrusion" refers to its vertical distance from the interior of the peripheral wall of the hollow tubular segment through which the elongated protrusion extends. In such embodiments, the at least one elongated protrusion may have any profile, wherein the protrusion may extend further into the interior of the hollow tubular segment at certain portions than at other portions.

[0047] In some preferred embodiments, the height of at least one elongated protrusion decreases between the upstream and downstream locations.

[0048] In some preferred embodiments, the ratio of the maximum height of at least one elongated protrusion to the inner diameter of the aerosol cooling element is at least 0.1. More preferably, the ratio of the maximum height of at least one elongated protrusion to the inner diameter of the aerosol cooling element is at least 0.25. Even more preferably, the ratio of the maximum height of at least one elongated protrusion to the inner diameter of the aerosol cooling element is at least 0.33 (one-third). The term "maximum height" means that the height of a portion of at least one elongated protrusion is greater than the height of any other portion of at least one elongated protrusion.

[0049] In some preferred embodiments, the ratio of the maximum height of at least one elongated protrusion to the inner diameter of the aerosol cooling element is less than or equal to 0.75. More preferably, the ratio of the maximum height of at least one elongated protrusion to the inner diameter of the aerosol cooling element is less than or equal to 0.6. Even more preferably, the ratio of the maximum height of at least one elongated protrusion to the inner diameter of the aerosol cooling element is less than or equal to 0.5.

[0050] In some preferred embodiments, the ratio of the maximum height of at least one elongated protrusion to the inner diameter of the aerosol cooling element is between 0.1 and 0.75. More preferably, the ratio of the maximum height of at least one elongated protrusion to the inner diameter of the aerosol cooling element is between 0.25 and 0.6. Even more preferably, the ratio of the maximum height of at least one elongated protrusion to the inner diameter of the aerosol cooling element is between 0.33 (one-third) and 0.5.

[0051] When viewed from the side, at least one elongated protrusion may have a wing-like profile, a conical profile, a curved profile, or an undulating profile.

[0052] In some preferred embodiments, at least one elongated protrusion includes (or is) a deflecting fin configured to alter the flow direction of aerosols flowing from the upstream end to the downstream end of the hollow tubular segment. "Fin" refers to a flat, thin, protruding surface.

[0053] In a preferred embodiment, at least one elongated protrusion includes a plurality of deflecting fins. In such a preferred embodiment, the plurality of deflecting fins includes at least two deflecting fins. More preferably, the plurality of deflecting fins includes at least four deflecting fins. Even more preferably, the plurality of deflecting fins includes at least six deflecting fins.

[0054] In some preferred embodiments, the deflecting fin includes opposing first and second surfaces, wherein the angle formed between the reference plane at the upstream position and the first surface of the deflecting fin is different from the angle formed between the reference plane at the downstream position and the first surface of the deflecting fin, the reference plane being parallel to the longitudinal axis and dividing the internal volume of the hollow tubular segment into two equal parts.

[0055] In some preferred embodiments, the deflecting fins are twisted along the length of the hollow tubular section. The term "twisted" refers to the fact that the profile of the deflecting fin bends or curls around a reference point or line along the length of the deflecting fin. The deflecting fins may take a helical or spiral form or shape as they extend along the length of the aerosol cooling element. Such a helical or spiral shape is optimal for inducing turbulence in the flowing aerosol, which in turn enhances the cooling effect provided by the aerosol cooling element. The term "spiral" refers to an element having a helical or spiral profile or shape.

[0056] In some preferred embodiments, the radial or circumferential position of at least one elongated protrusion or a portion thereof varies between its upstream and downstream positions. In such embodiments, at least one elongated protrusion may not follow a straight line when viewed from above or below. In such embodiments, the base of at least one elongated protrusion may trace a curved profile, an undulating profile, or any other profile parallel to the longitudinal axis of the hollow tubular segment of the aerosol cooling element along the inner surface of the peripheral wall.

[0057] In some preferred embodiments, the height of at least one elongated protrusion is less than the radius of the hollow tubular segment. Such radius of the hollow tubular segment preferably refers to the inner diameter of the hollow tubular segment, which is half of the inner diameter of the hollow tubular segment described above.

[0058] In some preferred embodiments, the upstream position is located between the upstream end of the hollow tubular segment and the midpoint of the hollow tubular segment, and the downstream position is located between the midpoint of the hollow tubular segment and the downstream end of the hollow tubular segment. The midpoint of the hollow tubular segment refers to the middle of the hollow tubular segment, located midway between the upstream end and the downstream end of the hollow tubular segment.

[0059] In some preferred embodiments, the upstream location is situated at one-quarter of the length of the aerosol cooling element away from the upstream end. In some other preferred embodiments, the upstream location is situated at one-third of the length of the aerosol cooling element away from the upstream end. In some other preferred embodiments, the upstream location is situated at half the length of the aerosol cooling element away from the upstream end.

[0060] In some preferred embodiments, the downstream location is located at one-quarter of the length of the aerosol cooling element away from the downstream end. In some other preferred embodiments, the downstream location is located at one-third of the length of the aerosol cooling element away from the downstream end. In some other preferred embodiments, the downstream location is located at half the length of the aerosol cooling element away from the downstream end.

[0061] In some preferred embodiments, at least one elongated protrusion extends longitudinally from the upstream end of the hollow tubular segment to the downstream end of the hollow tubular segment.

[0062] In some preferred embodiments, the length of at least one elongated protrusion is between about 8 mm and about 30 mm. More preferably, the length of at least one elongated protrusion is between about 9 mm and about 19 mm. Even more preferably, the length of at least one elongated protrusion is between about 10 mm and about 15 mm.

[0063] In some preferred embodiments, the ratio of the length of at least one elongated protrusion to the length of the aerosol cooling element is at least 0.25. More preferably, the ratio of the length of at least one elongated protrusion to the length of the aerosol cooling element is at least 0.33 (one-third). Even more preferably, the ratio of the length of at least one elongated protrusion to the length of the aerosol cooling element is at least 0.5.

[0064] In some preferred embodiments, the ratio of the length of at least one elongated protrusion to the length of the aerosol cooling element is less than or equal to 1. More preferably, the ratio of the length of at least one elongated protrusion to the length of the aerosol cooling element is less than or equal to 0.75. Even more preferably, the ratio of the length of at least one elongated protrusion to the length of the aerosol cooling element is less than or equal to 0.5.

[0065] In some preferred embodiments, the ratio of the length of at least one elongated protrusion to the length of the aerosol cooling element is between 0.25 and 1. More preferably, the ratio of the length of at least one elongated protrusion to the length of the aerosol cooling element is between 0.25 and 0.75.

[0066] In some preferred embodiments, the thickness of at least one elongated protrusion is between about 0.1 mm and about 1 mm. More preferably, the thickness of at least one elongated protrusion is between about 0.25 mm and about 0.75 mm. Even more preferably, the thickness of at least one elongated protrusion is between about 0.4 mm and about 0.6 mm.

[0067] In some preferred embodiments, the thickness of at least one elongated protrusion is about 0.1 mm. More preferably, the thickness of at least one elongated protrusion is about 0.25 mm. Even more preferably, the thickness of at least one elongated protrusion is about 0.4 mm. In some preferred embodiments, the thickness of at least one elongated protrusion is about 0.6 mm. More preferably, the thickness of at least one elongated protrusion is about 0.75 mm. Even more preferably, the thickness of at least one elongated protrusion is about 1 mm.

[0068] Preferably, the thickness of at least one elongated protrusion is less than 20% of the length of at least one elongated protrusion. More preferably, the thickness of at least one elongated protrusion is less than 10% of the length of at least one elongated protrusion. Even more preferably, the thickness of at least one elongated protrusion is less than 5% of the length of at least one elongated protrusion.

[0069] In some preferred embodiments, at least one elongated protrusion comprises a plurality of elongated protrusions circumferentially distributed on a peripheral wall. In such preferred embodiments, the plurality of elongated protrusions are evenly (or uniformly) distributed on the peripheral wall at equal intervals between them.

[0070] In some preferred embodiments, at least one elongated protrusion comprises a plurality of elongated protrusions. Preferably, the plurality of elongated protrusions comprises at least two elongated protrusions. More preferably, the plurality of elongated protrusions comprises at least four elongated protrusions. Even more preferably, the plurality of elongated protrusions comprises at least six elongated protrusions.

[0071] In some preferred embodiments, at least one elongated protrusion includes a plurality of elongated protrusions axially distributed at the same radial or circumferential positions on the peripheral wall.

[0072] In some preferred embodiments, a plurality of elongated protrusions are evenly (or uniformly) distributed on the peripheral wall. This means that the plurality of elongated protrusions are evenly (or uniformly) spaced apart on the peripheral wall. In other embodiments, the plurality of elongated protrusions are spaced apart from each other at different distances.

[0073] In some preferred embodiments, the elongated protrusions are substantially the same shape as each other.

[0074] This invention relates to an aerosol generating article for generating aerosols upon heating. The aerosol generating article includes a strip of aerosol generating matrix. As described above, the aerosol generating article may include a first aerosol cooling element according to a first aspect of this disclosure, the first aerosol cooling element being positioned downstream of the strip of the aerosol generating matrix.

[0075] According to a second aspect of this disclosure, an aerosol generating article is provided for generating an aerosol upon heating. The aerosol generating article includes a strip of an aerosol generating matrix. As described above, the aerosol generating article includes a first aerosol cooling element according to a first aspect of this disclosure, the first aerosol cooling element being positioned downstream of the strip of the aerosol generating matrix.

[0076] In some embodiments, the aerosol generating article may also include a hollow tubular support element positioned downstream of the strip adjacent to the aerosol generating matrix.

[0077] In some embodiments, the aerosol generating article may further include a second aerosol cooling element located downstream of the hollow tubular support element, wherein the first aerosol cooling element is positioned downstream of the second aerosol cooling element and extends to the downstream end of the aerosol generating article.

[0078] In a preferred embodiment, the cavity defined by the first aerosol cooling element is defined as a nozzle end cavity at the downstream end of the aerosol-generating article.

[0079] As briefly described above, aerosol-generating articles may include an additional component between a hollow tubular support element and an aerosol cooling element. In some embodiments, the additional component may be another aerosol cooling element (also referred to herein as a “secondary” or “secondary” aerosol cooling element) adapted to initiate cooling of a gas stream entering from the aerosol-generating matrix to promote the condensation of compounds released from the matrix, causing them to condense to form an aerosol. In some embodiments, the secondary aerosol cooling element may be in the form of an aggregated, optionally rolled sheet of polymeric material, such as polylactic acid (PLA), defining a plurality of longitudinally extending channels. In practice, the PLA sheet may be “rolled” to form substantially parallel ridges or corrugations. The rolled PLA sheet may then be aggregated, rolled up, wrinkled, or folded, or otherwise compressed or contracted substantially transversely to the longitudinal axis, such that the substantially parallel ridges or corrugations extend in the longitudinal direction. Not wishing to be bound by theory, such an aggregated rolled polymeric material sheet may substantially function as a heat exchanger.

[0080] Preferably, the length of the other aerosol cooling element is at least about 4 mm. More preferably, the length of the other aerosol cooling element is at least about 6 mm. Even more preferably, the length of the other aerosol cooling element is at least about 9 mm. The length of the other aerosol cooling element is preferably less than or equal to about 25 mm. More preferably, the length of the other aerosol cooling element is preferably less than or equal to about 20 mm. Even more preferably, the length of the other aerosol cooling element is preferably less than or equal to about 15 mm.

[0081] In some embodiments, the length of other aerosol cooling elements is about 4 mm to about 25 mm, or about 4 mm to about 20 mm, or about 4 mm to about 15 mm. In other embodiments, the length of other aerosol cooling elements is about 6 mm to about 25 mm, or about 6 mm to about 20 mm, or about 6 mm to about 15 mm. In other embodiments, the length of other aerosol cooling elements is about 9 mm to about 25 mm, or about 9 mm to about 20 mm, or about 9 mm to about 15 mm.

[0082] In some preferred embodiments, the length of other aerosol cooling elements is from about 4 mm to about 25 mm, more preferably from about 6 mm to about 20 mm, or from about 9 mm to about 15 mm.

[0083] As briefly described above, the aerosol generating article according to the present invention incorporates a strip of aerosol generating matrix and a hollow tubular support element positioned downstream of the strip of the aerosol generating matrix. Furthermore, the aerosol generating article of the present invention may include an aerosol cooling element downstream of the hollow tubular support element.

[0084] Compared to existing aerosol-generating articles, in the article according to the invention, the aerosol cooling element can extend all the way to the downstream end of the aerosol-generating article. In other words, the aerosol cooling element can define the nozzle portion of the article and can be inhaled by the consumer during use.

[0085] The total length of the aerosol-generating article is preferably at least about 35 mm. More preferably, the total length of the aerosol-generating article is at least about 40 mm. Even more preferably, the total length of the aerosol-generating article is at least about 45 mm. Alternatively, the total length of the aerosol-generating article is preferably less than or equal to about 100 mm. More preferably, the total length of the aerosol-generating article is less than or equal to about 80 mm. Even more preferably, the total length of the aerosol-generating article is less than or equal to about 75 mm. Most preferably, the total length of the aerosol-generating article is less than or equal to about 70 mm.

[0086] In some embodiments, the total length of the aerosol-generating article is about 35 mm to about 100 mm, or about 35 mm to about 80 mm, or about 35 mm to about 75 mm, or about 35 mm to about 70 mm. In other embodiments, the total length of the aerosol-generating article is about 40 mm to about 100 mm, or about 40 mm to about 80 mm, or about 40 mm to about 75 mm, or about 40 mm to about 70 mm. In other embodiments, the total length of the aerosol-generating article is about 45 mm to about 100 mm, or about 45 mm to about 80 mm, or about 45 mm to about 75 mm, or about 45 mm to about 70 mm.

[0087] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the total length of the aerosol-generated article is about 35 mm to about 80 mm, more preferably about 40 mm to about 75 mm, and even more preferably about 45 mm to about 70 mm.

[0088] The aerosol generating article according to the invention includes an aerosol generating matrix, which may be provided in the form of a strip surrounded by packaging.

[0089] The outer diameter of the strip of aerosol generating matrix is ​​preferably approximately equal to the outer diameter of the aerosol generating article.

[0090] Preferably, the strip of the aerosol generating matrix has an outer diameter of at least 5 mm. The outer diameter of the strip of the aerosol generating matrix can be between about 5 mm and about 12 mm, for example, between about 5 mm and about 10 mm, or between about 5 mm and about 8 mm, or between about 6 mm and about 12 mm, or between about 6 mm and 10 mm, or between about 6 mm and about 8 mm. In a preferred embodiment, the strip of the aerosol generating matrix has an outer diameter of 7.2 mm.

[0091] The strips of the aerosol generating matrix can have a length between about 5 mm and about 100 mm. Preferably, the strips of the aerosol generating matrix have a length of at least about 5 mm, more preferably at least about 7 mm. Alternatively, the strips of the aerosol generating matrix preferably have a length of less than about 100 mm, more preferably less than about 80 mm, even more preferably less than about 65 mm, and most preferably less than or equal to about 50 mm. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the strips of the aerosol generating matrix have a length of less than or equal to about 35 mm, more preferably less than or equal to 25 mm, and even more preferably less than or equal to about 20 mm. In one embodiment, the strips of the aerosol generating matrix can have a length of about 10 mm. In a preferred embodiment, the strips of the aerosol generating matrix have a length of about 12 mm.

[0092] In some embodiments, the strip of the aerosol generating matrix has a length of about 5 mm to about 80 mm, or about 5 mm to about 65 mm, or about 5 mm to about 50 mm. In other embodiments, the strip of the aerosol generating matrix has a length of about 7 mm to about 100 mm, or about 7 mm to about 80 mm, or about 7 mm to about 65 mm, or about 7 mm to about 50 mm. In other embodiments, the strip of the aerosol generating matrix has a length of about 10 mm to about 100 mm, or about 10 mm to about 80 mm, or about 10 mm to about 65 mm, or about 10 mm to about 50 mm.

[0093] Preferably, the strips of the aerosol generating matrix have a substantially uniform cross-section along their length. Particularly preferably, the strips of the aerosol generating matrix have a substantially circular cross-section.

[0094] In a preferred embodiment, the aerosol-generating matrix comprises an aggregated sheet of one or more homogenized tobacco materials. Preferably, the sheets of one or more homogenized tobacco materials are textured. As used herein, the term "textured sheet" refers to a sheet that has been curled, embossed, debossed, perforated, or otherwise deformed. The textured sheet of homogenized tobacco material used in the present invention may include a plurality of spaced-apart indentations, protrusions, perforations, or combinations thereof. According to a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, the strip of the aerosol-generating matrix comprises an aggregated curled sheet of homogenized tobacco material surrounded by packaging material.

[0095] As used herein, the term "curled sheet" is intended to be synonymous with the term "wrinkled sheet" and refers to a sheet having a plurality of substantially parallel ridges or corrugations. Preferably, the curled sheet of homogenized tobacco material has a plurality of ridges or corrugations substantially parallel to the cylindrical axis of the strip according to the invention. This advantageously promotes the aggregation of the curled sheet of homogenized tobacco material to form a strip. However, it should be understood that the curled sheet of homogenized tobacco material used in the invention may alternatively or additionally have a plurality of substantially parallel ridges or corrugations disposed at acute or obtuse angles to the cylindrical axis of the strip. The sheet of homogenized tobacco material for the strip of the article of the invention may be textured substantially uniformly over its substantially entire surface. For example, the curled sheet of homogenized tobacco material for manufacturing a strip of aerosol-generating article according to the invention may comprise a plurality of substantially parallel ridges or corrugations spaced substantially uniformly across the width of the sheet.

[0096] The sheet or web of the homogenized tobacco material used in this invention may have a tobacco content of at least about 40% by weight on a dry weight basis, more preferably at least about 60% by weight on a dry weight basis, more preferably at least about 70% by weight on a dry weight basis, and most preferably at least about 90% by weight on a dry weight basis.

[0097] Sheets or webs of homogenized tobacco material used in aerosol-generating matrices may contain one or more intrinsic binders (i.e., tobacco endogenous binders), one or more non-intrinsic binders (i.e., tobacco exogenous binders), or combinations thereof, to help aggregate particulate tobacco. Alternatively or additionally, sheets of homogenized tobacco material used in aerosol-generating matrices may contain other additives, including but not limited to tobacco and non-tobacco fibers, aerosol forming agents, humectants, plasticizers, flavorings, fillers, aqueous and non-aqueous solvents, and combinations thereof.

[0098] Suitable external binders contained in sheets or webs of homogenized tobacco material used in aerosol generation matrices are known in the art, including but not limited to: gums, such as guar gum, xanthan gum, gum arabic, and locust bean gum; cellulose binders, such as hydroxypropyl cellulose, carboxymethyl cellulose, hydroxyethyl cellulose, methyl cellulose, and ethyl cellulose; polysaccharides, such as starch; organic acids, such as alginic acid; conjugate base salts of organic acids, such as sodium alginate, agar, and pectin; and combinations thereof.

[0099] Suitable non-tobacco fibers contained in sheets or webs of homogenized tobacco material for use in aerosol generation matrices are known in the art, including but not limited to: cellulose fibers; cork fibers; hardwood fibers; jute fibers; and combinations thereof. Prior to being contained in sheets of homogenized tobacco material for use in aerosol generation matrices, the non-tobacco fibers may be processed by suitable processes known in the art, including but not limited to: mechanical pulping, refining, chemical pulping, bleaching, sulfate pulping, and combinations thereof.

[0100] Preferably, the sheet or web of homogenized tobacco material contains an aerosol forming agent. As used herein, the term "aerosol forming agent" describes any suitable known compound or mixture of compounds that promotes aerosol formation in use and is substantially resistant to thermal degradation at the operating temperature of the aerosol-generating article.

[0101] Suitable aerosol forming agents are known in the art and include, but are not limited to: polyols, such as propylene glycol, triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol, and glycerol; esters of polyols, such as glycerol monoacetate, glycerol diacetate, or glycerol triacetate; and fatty acid esters of monocarboxylic acids, dicarboxylic acids, or polycarboxylic acids, such as dimethyl dodecanoate and dimethyl tetradecanoate.

[0102] Preferred aerosol forming agents are polyols or mixtures thereof, such as propylene glycol, triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol, and most preferably glycerol.

[0103] Homogenized tobacco material sheets or webs may contain a single aerosol forming agent. Alternatively, homogenized tobacco material sheets or webs may contain a combination of two or more aerosol forming agents.

[0104] The homogenized tobacco material sheets or webs have an aerosol forming agent content of greater than 10% by dry weight. Preferably, the homogenized tobacco material sheets or webs have an aerosol forming agent content of greater than 12% by dry weight. More preferably, the homogenized tobacco material sheets or webs have an aerosol forming agent content of greater than 14% by dry weight. Even more preferably, the homogenized tobacco material sheets or webs have an aerosol forming agent content of greater than 16% by dry weight.

[0105] The sheets of homogenized tobacco material may have an aerosol forming agent content of about 10% to about 30% by dry weight. Preferably, the sheets or webs of homogenized tobacco material have an aerosol forming agent content of less than 25% by dry weight.

[0106] In a preferred embodiment, the sheet of homogenized tobacco material has an aerosol forming agent content of about 20% by dry weight.

[0107] The sheets or webs of homogenized tobacco used in the aerosol-generating articles of the present invention can be manufactured by methods known in the art (e.g., the method disclosed in International Patent Application WO-A-2012 / 164009 A2). In a preferred embodiment, the sheets of homogenized tobacco material used in the aerosol-generating articles are formed by a casting process from a slurry comprising particulate tobacco, guar gum, cellulose fibers, and glycerol.

[0108] Alternative arrangements of homogenized tobacco material in strips used in aerosol-generating articles will be known to those skilled in the art and may include stacked sheets of multiple homogenized tobacco materials, multiple elongated tubular elements formed by wrapping strips of homogenized tobacco material around their longitudinal axis, and so on.

[0109] As an alternative, the aerosol-generating matrix strip may comprise a non-tobacco-based nicotine-containing material, such as a sheet of absorbent non-tobacco material loaded with nicotine (e.g., in the form of nicotine salts) and an aerosol-forming agent. Examples of such strips are described in International Application WO-A-2015 / 052652. Alternatively, the aerosol-generating matrix strip may comprise non-tobacco plant material, such as aromatic non-tobacco plant material.

[0110] In the aerosol-generating matrix of the article according to the invention, the aerosol-generating matrix is ​​preferably surrounded by a packaging material. The packaging material may be formed of a porous or non-porous sheet material. The packaging material may be formed of any suitable material or combination of materials. Preferably, the packaging material is a paper packaging material.

[0111] As described above, the tubular support element can be disposed downstream of the strip of the aerosol generating matrix. The tubular support element includes a cylindrical peripheral wall and defines an airflow conduit extending longitudinally from an upstream end of the tubular support element to a downstream end of the tubular support element. Thus, the tubular support element establishes fluid communication between the strip of the aerosol generating matrix and one or more components of the article located further downstream.

[0112] More specifically, the tubular support element is longitudinally aligned with the strip and arranged immediately downstream of the strip. In the context of this invention, the expression "immediately downstream of the strip" means that the tubular support element and the strip are in contact with or very close to each other, such that when the article is received for use in an aerosol generating apparatus suitable for heating an aerosol generating matrix (e.g., an aerosol generating apparatus including a heating element inserted into the strip), the tubular support element effectively provides support for the strip, wherein the aerosol-generated article undergoes minimal deformation, or the strip undergoes minimal displacement, or both. Thus, practically, as used herein with reference to this invention, the expression "immediately downstream of the strip" indicates that the minimum longitudinal distance between the downstream end surface of the strip and the upstream end surface of the peripheral wall of the tubular support element is less than 1 mm, preferably less than 0.5 mm, and even more preferably less than 0.25 mm. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the upstream end surface of the peripheral wall of the tubular support element directly contacts the downstream end surface of the strip of the aerosol generating matrix.

[0113] Therefore, the tubular support element can effectively hold the strip of aerosol generating matrix at a predetermined distance from the downstream end of the aerosol generating article. In addition, the tubular support element gives the aerosol generating article structural strength, making it easy for consumers to handle and conveniently insert into the aerosol generating device for use.

[0114] The tubular support element can be made of porous or impermeable materials. Suitable examples of porous materials include, but are not limited to, cellulose acetate and many other porous polymer materials known to those skilled in the art. Suitable examples of impermeable materials include, but are not limited to, non-porous polymer materials, with bioplastics being particularly preferred.

[0115] In a preferred embodiment, the tubular support element is a hollow cellulose acetate tube.

[0116] During use, a thermal gradient is established along the airflow duct of the tubular support element. In effect, a temperature difference is provided such that the temperature of the volatile aerosol component entering the tubular support element at the downstream end of the aerosol-generating matrix strip is typically higher than the temperature of the volatile aerosol component leaving the tubular support element at the downstream end. However, this is usually insufficient to adequately cool the volatile aerosol component.

[0117] The thickness of the cylindrical peripheral wall of the hollow tubular support element is preferably less than or equal to 2 mm. More preferably, the thickness of the cylindrical peripheral wall is less than or equal to 1.5 mm. Even more preferably, the thickness of the cylindrical peripheral wall is less than or equal to 1 mm.

[0118] The thickness of the cylindrical peripheral wall of the hollow tubular support element is at least 0.2 mm. More preferably, the thickness of the cylindrical peripheral wall is at least 0.4 mm. Even more preferably, the thickness of the cylindrical peripheral wall is at least 0.6 mm.

[0119] In some embodiments, the thickness of the cylindrical peripheral wall of the hollow tubular segment is preferably from about 0.2 mm to about 2 mm, more preferably from about 0.4 mm to about 1.5 mm, and even more preferably from about 0.6 mm to about 1 mm.

[0120] Therefore, at the upstream end, the cylindrical peripheral wall presents an end surface suitable for abutting the peripheral portion of the strip of the aerosol-generating matrix. In some embodiments, the upstream end surface of the peripheral wall may have a substantially flat profile. Thus, it can substantially integrally contact the downstream end surface of the strip. In alternative embodiments, the upstream end surface of the peripheral wall has a non-planar profile, such as an inclined profile or a curved profile, such that the peripheral wall contacts the strip only at its outermost peripheral edge, while some spacing is provided between the downstream end surface of the strip and the end surface of the peripheral wall at the inner periphery of the peripheral wall.

[0121] Preferably, the length of the hollow tubular support element is at least about 10 mm. More preferably, the length of the hollow tubular support element is at least about 15 mm. Even more preferably, the length of the hollow tubular support element is at least about 20 mm.

[0122] The length of the hollow tubular support element is preferably less than or equal to about 60 mm. More preferably, the length of the hollow tubular support element is less than or equal to about 50 mm. Even more preferably, the length of the hollow tubular support element is less than or equal to about 40 mm.

[0123] In some embodiments, the length of the hollow tubular support element is about 10 mm to about 60 mm, or about 10 mm to about 50 mm, or about 10 mm to about 40 mm. In other embodiments, the length of the hollow tubular support element is about 15 mm to about 60 mm, or about 15 mm to about 50 mm, or about 15 mm to about 40 mm. In other embodiments, the length of the hollow tubular support element is about 20 mm to about 60 mm, or about 20 mm to about 50 mm, or about 20 mm to about 40 mm.

[0124] In some preferred embodiments, the length of the hollow tubular support element is about 10 mm to about 60 mm, more preferably about 15 mm to about 50 mm, and even more preferably about 20 mm to about 40 mm.

[0125] As briefly described above, the aerosol generating article according to the present invention includes an aerosol cooling element that is longitudinally aligned with and positioned downstream of the hollow tubular support element.

[0126] In some embodiments, the aerosol cooling elements are positioned immediately downstream of the hollow tubular support element. As used herein with respect to the invention, the phrase "immediately downstream of the hollow tubular support element" means that the aerosol cooling elements are in contact with or very close to each other. In practice, the phrase "immediately downstream of the hollow tubular support element" indicates that the minimum longitudinal distance between the downstream end surface of the hollow tubular support element and the upstream end surface of the peripheral wall of the aerosol cooling element is less than 1 mm, preferably less than 0.5 mm, and even more preferably less than 0.25 mm. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the upstream end surface of the aerosol cooling element directly contacts the downstream end surface of the peripheral wall of the hollow tubular support element.

[0127] In other embodiments, the aerosol generating article may include one or more additional components between the hollow tubular support element and the aerosol cooling element.

[0128] For example, an aerosol-generating article may include a filter segment of a filter material capable of removing particulate components, gaseous components, or combinations thereof. Suitable filter materials are known in the art and include, but are not limited to: fibrous filter materials, such as cellulose acetate tow, viscose fibers, polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) fibers, polylactic acid (PLA) fibers, and paper; adsorbents, such as activated alumina, zeolite, molecular sieves, and silica gel; and combinations thereof. Additionally, the filter segment of the filter material may also include one or more aerosol modifiers. Suitable aerosol modifiers are known in the art and include, but are not limited to, fragrances, such as, for example, menthol. The length of the filter segment of the filter material can be from about 4 mm to about 25 mm. Preferably, the length of the filter segment of the filter material is at least about 6 mm, more preferably at least about 8 mm. The length of the filter segment of the filter material is preferably less than or equal to about 25 mm, more preferably less than or equal to about 20 mm, and even more preferably less than or equal to about 15 mm. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the length of the filter segment of the filter material is less than or equal to about 10 mm. In an exemplary embodiment, the length of the filter segment of the filter material is about 5 mm. In an exemplary embodiment, the mouthpiece is approximately 7 millimeters long.

[0129] Components of the aerosol-generating article according to the invention can be individually surrounded by such packaging. The packaging can be formed from porous or non-porous sheet material. The packaging can be formed from any suitable material or combination of materials. Preferably, the packaging is a paper packaging. However, two or more components can also be surrounded by the same packaging. Furthermore, the strips of the aerosol-generating matrix and other components are typically assembled within a single packaging. For example, in one embodiment, the aerosol-generating article includes strips of the aerosol-generating matrix as described above, tubular support elements, aerosol cooling elements, and an outer packaging surrounding the strips, support elements, and aerosol cooling elements, arranged in a linear sequence. In another embodiment, the aerosol-generating article includes strips of the aerosol-generating matrix as described above, secondary aerosol cooling elements, aerosol cooling elements, and an outer packaging surrounding the strips, support elements, and aerosol cooling elements, arranged in a linear sequence.

[0130] In some embodiments, the aerosol generating article includes a ventilated area along the location of the aerosol cooling element. Preferably, the aerosol generating article includes a ventilated area along the length of the aerosol cooling element.

[0131] In some implementations, the ventilation zone is positioned along the cavity of the hollow tubular segment. This establishes fluid communication between the external environment and the cavity, allowing ambient air to be drawn into the cavity through ventilation holes formed in the peripheral wall of the hollow tubular segment when the consumer inhales the aerosol-generating article. This is advantageous because mixing the ambient air with the incoming aerosol flow lowers the aerosol temperature and promotes either condensation or growth of aerosol particles, or both. Similarly, the ambient airflow through the peripheral wall of the aerosol-cooled element further facilitates maintaining the peripheral wall temperature below a desired threshold.

[0132] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the ventilation zone includes a plurality of holes extending through the peripheral wall, forming an inclined airflow duct that connects the external environment to the cavity of the hollow tubular segment. This can particularly help maintain the temperature of the peripheral wall of the aerosol cooling element below a desired threshold.

[0133] The aerosol generating article described above can be used in an electrically operated aerosol generating apparatus as part of an aerosol generating system according to another aspect of this disclosure or invention. One such aerosol generating system includes the aerosol generating article as described above and an electrically operated aerosol generating apparatus, the electrically operated aerosol generating apparatus including a heating element and an elongated heating chamber configured to receive the aerosol generating article, such that a strip of aerosol generating matrix is ​​heated in the heating chamber. Preferably, the heating element includes heater blades or heater needles adapted to be inserted into the strip of aerosol generating matrix when the aerosol generating article is received into the heating chamber. Attached Figure Description

[0134] The invention will now be further described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0135] Figure 1 A front perspective view of the aerosol cooling element according to the present invention is shown;

[0136] Figure 2 A schematic side cross-sectional view of the aerosol cooling element according to the present invention is shown;

[0137] Figure 3 It shows Figure 2 A schematic cross-sectional view of the aerosol cooling element taken along the mid-plane TT of the aerosol cooling element;

[0138] Figure 4 A side cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating article including an aerosol cooling element according to the present invention is shown; and

[0139] Figure 5 A schematic side sectional view of an aerosol generation system is shown, which includes an electrically operated aerosol generation device and Figure 4 The aerosol-generated product shown. Detailed Implementation

[0140] Figure 1 The aerosol cooling element 16 shown includes a hollow tubular segment 8, which includes a peripheral wall 24 having a thickness of approximately 0.5 mm and defines a cavity 28. Furthermore, the hollow tubular segment 8 includes a plurality of elongated protrusions 26 extending from the peripheral wall 24 into the interior of the hollow tubular segment 22. Each of the elongated protrusions 26 extends from an upstream end of the hollow tubular segment 8 to a downstream end of the hollow tubular segment 8 and into the interior of the hollow tubular segment 23.

[0141] like Figure 1 As shown, multiple elongated protrusions 26 include four deflecting fins. The four deflecting fins 26 are evenly distributed within the aerosol cooling element. This means that the deflecting fins 26 are circumferentially and evenly spaced apart from each other. Figure 2 As shown, the deflecting fin 26 is twisted between the upstream end and the downstream end of the hollow tubular section 8. Figure 2 As shown, the circumferential position of the elongated protrusion 26 varies along the length of the aerosol cooling element. Figure 2 As shown in the cross-section of the deflection fins indicated by the dashed line, the circumferential position of the elongated protrusion at the midpoint of the aerosol cooling element differs from the circumferential position of the elongated protrusion at the downstream end of the aerosol cooling element.

[0142] Figure 4The aerosol generating article 10 shown includes a strip 12 of an aerosol generating matrix according to a first embodiment of the invention, a tubular support element 14, and an aerosol cooling element 16. These three elements are arranged sequentially and coaxially aligned, and are surrounded by a package 18 to form the aerosol generating article 10. The aerosol generating article 10 has a nozzle or downstream end 20 and an upstream end 22 located on the article opposite to the nozzle end 20. Figure 4 The aerosol generating article 10 shown is particularly suitable for use with an electrically operated aerosol generating apparatus that includes a heater for heating the strips of the aerosol generating matrix.

[0143] The strip 12 of the aerosol generating matrix is ​​approximately 12 mm long and approximately 7 mm in diameter. The strip 12 is cylindrical and has a substantially circular cross-section.

[0144] The tubular support element 14 is provided as a hollow cellulose acetate tube. Its length is approximately 8 mm. The outer diameter of the tubular support element 14 is approximately 7 mm. The peripheral wall of the tubular support element 14 has a thickness of approximately 1.85 mm.

[0145] Figure 5 A portion of an electrically operated aerosol generation system 200 is shown, which utilizes heater blades 210 for heating. Figure 4 The aerosol generating matrix of the aerosol generating article 10 shown is a strip 12. Heater blades 210 are mounted within the aerosol generating chamber of the electrically operated aerosol generating device 212. The aerosol generating device 212 defines a plurality of vents 214 for allowing airflow into the aerosol generating article 10, such as... Figure 5 As indicated by the arrow in the diagram. The aerosol generating device 212 includes components not in... Figure 5 The power supply and electronic components are shown in the image.

[0146] Figure 4 The aerosol generating article 10 shown is designed to be similar to... Figure 5 The aerosol generating device 212 shown is connected so that it can be consumed.

[0147] The user inserts the aerosol generating article 10 into the aerosol generating device 212, such that the heater blades 210 are inserted into the strip 12 of the aerosol generating matrix. An aerosol cooling element 16 protrudes outward from the nozzle end of the device 212. Once the aerosol generating article 10 is engaged with the aerosol generating device 212, the user draws air from the aerosol cooling element 16 at the nozzle end of the aerosol generating article 10, and the strip 12 of the aerosol generating matrix is ​​heated by the heater blades 210 to a temperature sufficient to generate aerosol from the strip 12. The aerosol is drawn through the aerosol cooling element 16 and enters the user's mouth.

[0148] It should be recognized that, Figure 4 The aerosol generating article 10 shown can also be used with other types of aerosol generating devices.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating article for generating an aerosol upon heating, the aerosol generating article comprising: Strips of aerosol-generating matrix; An aerosol cooling element is positioned downstream of a strip of an aerosol generating matrix. The aerosol cooling element includes a hollow tubular segment comprising a peripheral wall and a cavity. The hollow tubular segment extends along a longitudinal axis and has an upstream end and a downstream end in fluid communication. The hollow tubular segment includes at least one elongated protrusion extending from the peripheral wall into the interior of the hollow tubular segment. The at least one elongated protrusion extends longitudinally from an upstream position on the peripheral wall to a downstream position on the peripheral wall. The inner diameter of the hollow tubular segment is at least 4 mm. A hollow tubular support element is positioned between the strip of the aerosol generating matrix and the aerosol cooling element. The tubular support element includes a cylindrical peripheral wall, wherein the thickness of the cylindrical peripheral wall is less than or equal to 2 mm, and wherein the length of the hollow tubular support element is at least 10 mm. A ventilation zone is provided at the location of the cavity along the hollow tubular section of the aerosol cooling element, thereby establishing fluid communication between the external environment and the cavity; as well as Packaging material surrounding the strip of the aerosol generating matrix, the aerosol cooling element, and the hollow tubular support element. The at least one elongated protrusion is a deflecting fin configured to change the flow direction of aerosol flowing from the upstream end to the downstream end of the hollow tubular segment, and wherein the deflecting fin is twisted along the length of the hollow tubular segment.

2. The aerosol-generating article according to claim 1, wherein the at least one elongated protrusion extends radially from the peripheral wall toward the central axis of the hollow tubular segment.

3. The aerosol-generating article according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the height of the at least one elongated protrusion varies between the upstream position and the downstream position.

4. The aerosol-generating article of claim 3, wherein the height of the at least one elongated protrusion decreases between the upstream and downstream positions.

5. The aerosol generating article according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the deflecting fin includes opposing first and second surfaces, wherein the angle formed between the reference plane and the first surface of the deflecting fin at the upstream position is different from the angle formed between the reference plane and the first surface of the deflecting fin at the downstream position, the reference plane being parallel to the longitudinal axis and dividing the internal volume of the hollow tubular segment into two equal parts.

6. The aerosol-generating article according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the circumferential position of the at least one elongated protrusion varies between its upstream position and its downstream position.

7. The aerosol-generating article according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the height of the at least one elongated protrusion is less than the radius of the hollow tubular segment.

8. The aerosol generating article according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the upstream position is located between the upstream end of the hollow tubular segment and the midpoint of the hollow tubular segment, and wherein the downstream position is located between the midpoint of the hollow tubular segment and the downstream end of the hollow tubular segment.

9. The aerosol-generating article according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the at least one elongated protrusion extends longitudinally from the upstream end of the hollow tubular segment to the downstream end of the hollow tubular segment.

10. The aerosol-generating article according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the length of the at least one elongated protrusion is between 8 mm and 30 mm.

11. The aerosol-generating article according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the thickness of the at least one elongated protrusion is between 0.1 mm and 1 mm.

12. The aerosol-generating article according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the at least one elongated protrusion comprises a plurality of elongated protrusions uniformly distributed on the peripheral wall.

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