Method of manufacturing an e-liquid cartridge and aerosol-forming substrate

Abstract

The present invention aims to provide an e-liquid cartridge for an electronic cigarette and a method of manufacturing an aerosol forming substrate. The e-liquid cartridge has an aerosol forming substrate having a filler surrounded by a wrapping member at one end, and a mouthpiece at the other end; wherein the filler is a sheet member having an aerosol forming agent, the sheet member is filled in a manner to form an air passage in the longitudinal direction of the e-liquid cartridge, and the sheet member has a cutout in the longitudinal direction of the e-liquid cartridge.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the application filed on March 27, 2019, with application number 201980020707.X and invention title "Filling Material for Electronic Cigarettes and Electronic Cigarette Cartridges". Technical Field

[0002] This invention relates to a filling material for electronic cigarettes and an electronic cigarette cartridge. Background Technology

[0003] In recent years, in line with the trend of smoking bans, e-cigarette products have become increasingly popular. These products do not use a flame; instead, users inhale the vaporized tobacco by heating an e-cigarette cartridge containing tobacco components. As one method of filling such e-cigarette cartridges with tobacco, a method is disclosed that forms the tobacco by rolling and agglomerating a sheet containing an aerosol forming agent (Patent Document 1). Additionally, a smoking article is disclosed having a cylinder comprising a folded sheet (Patent Document 2). Furthermore, an invention for a smoking article's tobacco stick is known, comprising an agglomerated sheet of homogeneous tobacco material (for example, see Patent Document 3). The smoking article's tobacco stick disclosed in Patent Document 3 is formed by rolling and pleating a continuous sheet of homogeneous tobacco material, then wrapping it with packaging paper. The continuous tobacco stick is then cut into two or more individual tobacco sticks. The density of the smoking article's tobacco stick disclosed in Patent Document 3 is more uniform than that of tobacco sticks containing fine fragments of homogeneous tobacco material.

[0004] Existing technology Patent documents Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Publication No. 2017-524368 Patent Document 2: International Publication No. WO2010 / 113702 Patent Document 3: Japanese Patent Publication No. 2014-515274 Summary of the Invention The technical problem that the invention aims to solve The purpose of this invention is to provide a high-quality filling material for electronic cigarettes and an electronic cigarette cartridge suitable for electronic cigarettes, which can prevent the filling material from falling out and maintain stable inhalation comfort by ensuring uniform airflow during use.

[0005] Technical means to solve technical problems To address the aforementioned issues, the present invention provides a filler for electronic cigarettes, which is configured to have a sheet-like member; when the longitudinal direction of the electronic cigarette is taken as the first direction and the in-plane direction perpendicular to it is taken as the second direction, a cut is formed on the sheet-like member along the first direction.

[0006] As a preferred embodiment, the cut is formed to a depth that does not penetrate the sheet.

[0007] As a preferred embodiment, the sheet-like component is rectangular in shape, with two or more cuts formed on one side.

[0008] As a preferred embodiment, the two or more cuts include a first cut, which is formed along the first direction starting from one side of the sheet member in the second direction.

[0009] As a preferred embodiment, the two or more cuts include a second cut that is formed from the edge of the sheet member on the other side along the first direction, and the second cut and the first cut are alternately arranged in the second direction.

[0010] As a preferred embodiment, the cut is configured such that the length of its first directional component is longer than the length of its second directional component.

[0011] As a preferred embodiment, the filler for the electronic cigarette is fixed inside the packaging component.

[0012] As a more preferred embodiment, the electronic cigarette filler is filled in such a way that it forms an air channel in the first direction.

[0013] As another preferred method, the air passage is formed by folding or rolling the sheet-like member.

[0014] As another preferred approach, when viewed from one end, the areas of the end shapes of the filler are approximately equal.

[0015] As another preferred method, when viewed from one end, the area of ​​the end shape of the filler gradually increases from the center towards the periphery.

[0016] Furthermore, as a preferred embodiment, cutout portions are provided at predetermined intervals in the second direction, the sheet-like members are connected as a whole through non-cutout portions, and when the sheet-like members are used to form an aerosol forming substrate, cutouts are provided on one end side and the other end side of the aerosol forming substrate.

[0017] In order to solve the above problems, as another embodiment of the present invention, an electronic cigarette cartridge having the filling material for electronic cigarettes as described in the above embodiments is provided.

[0018] Invention Effects According to the present invention, a high-quality filling material for electronic cigarettes, a filling material suitable for electronic cigarettes, and an electronic cigarette cartridge can be provided. Specifically, it can prevent the filling material from falling out, and the cut portion is formed as a uniform air channel that guides the airflow direction when using the electronic cigarette cartridge, thereby maintaining stable inhalation comfort. Attached Figure Description

[0019] Figure 1 This is an illustration showing an example of how an electronic cigarette cartridge is used.

[0020] Figure 2 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the structure of an electronic cigarette cartridge.

[0021] Figure 3 This is a diagram showing the filler material in an aerosol forming substrate.

[0022] Figure 4 This is a diagram showing the filling method of the sheet material.

[0023] Figure 5 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating a method for manufacturing fillers for electronic cigarettes, as described in the embodiments.

[0024] Figure 6-1 Figure 6A is a schematic perspective view showing a portion of the sheet of the non-tobacco plant composition with a cut in the thickness direction, and Figure 6B is a schematic plan view showing the sheet of the non-tobacco plant composition with a cut in the thickness direction.

[0025] Figure 6-2 Figure 6C is a schematic plan view showing the electronic cigarette filler according to the embodiment, and Figures 6D and 6E are schematic plan views showing the electronic cigarette filler according to the modified example.

[0026] Figure 6-3 Figures 6F-6H are schematic plan views showing the filling material for electronic cigarettes involved in the modified examples.

[0027] Figure 6-4 Figures 6I and 6J are schematic plan views showing the filler material for electronic cigarettes involved in the modified examples.

[0028] Figure 7 This is a diagram illustrating the manufacturing process of electronic cigarette cartridges.

[0029] Figure 8 This is a diagram illustrating a variation of an electronic cigarette cartridge.

[0030] Figure 9 This is an illustration showing an example of a sheet of material with a cut.

[0031] Figure 10 This is a diagram illustrating the central portion to the periphery of an aerosol-forming substrate.

[0032] Figure 11 This is a diagram illustrating an example of a cut made from one end along the diametrical direction.

[0033] Figure 12This is an illustration showing an example of a cut formed from one end side that is approximately perpendicular to the edge of a folded sheet.

[0034] Figure 13 This is an illustration showing an example of a sheet of material with a cut.

[0035] Figure 14 This is an illustration showing an example of cutting a sheet of material to form a slit.

[0036] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of a manufacturing apparatus for aerosol forming substrate. Detailed Implementation

[0037] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. The present invention is not limited to the following embodiments. Furthermore, in the description of the drawings, the same elements are labeled with the same reference numerals, and repeated descriptions are omitted. Additionally, the sizes and proportions in the drawings are merely examples, and the present invention is not limited thereto. Furthermore, for ease of explanation, the drawings may be partially enlarged.

[0038] The following describes the method for manufacturing the sheet-like filler used in this embodiment. Examples of materials used to form aerosol-forming materials include a carrier for supporting the aerosol-forming agent, the aerosol-forming agent itself, and flavor additives used as needed.

[0039] As a carrier for aerosol forming agents, various parts of tobacco plants or non-tobacco plants (e.g., roots, stems, leaves, flowers, fruits, bark, seeds, trunks or branches, etc.) can be used, preferably in a dried and pulverized manner.

[0040] In addition to the plant parts mentioned above, the carriers or binders that carry aerosol forming agents can also include 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 glucomannan and starch; organic acids such as alginic acid; conjugated basic salts of organic acids such as sodium alginate, agar, and pectin; and combinations thereof.

[0041] As aerosol forming agents, glycerol, propylene glycol, sorbitol, triethylene glycol, lactic acid, ethyl acetate (glyceryl diacetate), ethyl triacetate (glyceryl triacetate), triethylene glycol diacetate, triethyl citrate, isopropyl myristate, methyl stearate, dimethyl dodecanoate, dimethyl tetradecanoate, etc., are particularly preferred. The amount of these substances used relative to the filler material for electronic cigarettes is preferably 1% by mass or more and 80% by mass or less, more preferably 10% by mass or more and 40% by mass or less.

[0042] In addition to the aforementioned aerosol forming agent carrier and aerosol forming agent, flavor additives for which flavoring is desired are also preferred. Examples of flavor additives include extracts of mint, cocoa, coffee, and black tea.

[0043] Furthermore, when using the above-mentioned materials to manufacture aerosol forming materials, various additives such as water, ethanol, and thickeners may be added in addition to the above-mentioned materials.

[0044] When the filler is made into a sheet, it can be obtained by forming a sheet containing the tobacco material as described above and adding an aerosol forming agent to the formed sheet, or by mixing an aerosol forming agent, cellulose fibers and tobacco powder to form a slurry and then making the slurry into a sheet.

[0045] The sheet used in this embodiment is prepared as follows: cellulose fibers, binder, black tea, aerosol forming agent, and flavor additives are poured as a slurry onto a metal plate, and the poured slurry is dried to obtain the sheet. The thickness is 0.2 mm. The thickness of the sheet used in this invention is preferably 0.1 mm or more and 0.5 mm or less.

[0046] Hereinafter, some examples of the manufacturing method of the aerosol forming substrate used in this embodiment will be described, wherein the aerosol forming substrate uses a sheet-like member with slits as a filler.

[0047] As an example of a method, one could illustrate this: processing a sheet of material with predetermined slits into a desired shape to form a sheet-like component with slits, and as... Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 12 As shown, sheet-like components are filled into packaging components (151), etc., as fillers. Another method, such as... Figure 2 and Figure 5 As shown, after processing the manufactured sheet into the desired shape, a slit is formed to obtain a sheet-like component with a slit, and then the sheet-like component is filled into a packaging sheet (150) or the like as filler. Further, as a possible method, one could list: processing the manufactured sheet into the desired shape and forming it into a form suitable for filling, then forming a slit, and then filling the packaging sheet (150) or the like with the slit as filler. Further, as a possible method, one could list: after processing the manufactured sheet into the desired shape, filling the packaging sheet (150) or the like as filler, and then forming a slit, thereby forming a filler with a sheet-like component with a slit.

[0048] In addition, although the sheet has slits, the sheet is joined together through the unslit portions.

[0049] As a preferred manufacturing method, the above-mentioned sheet manufacturing process, the slit-forming process, the sheet-forming process, and the sheet-filling process can be performed continuously, and it is even more preferable to perform two or more processes simultaneously. This is because performing such processes can improve production efficiency.

[0050] Examples of devices used to form slits include: razor blades, shaving blades, and rotary cutters, and a method of forming the desired number of slits at a time by arranging these blades in parallel is preferred.

[0051] Additionally, the interval W that forms the incision (e.g. Figure 9 , Figure 13 and Figure 14 As shown), the thickness is preferably greater than that of the sheet material, for example, preferably 0.5 mm to 10 mm. More preferably, it is 1 mm to 5 mm. When the interval W is 1 mm or more, the area separated by the cut is stable and will not tear; when the interval W is 5 mm or less, the area separated by the cut can prevent tearing. Figure 1 When the heating element is inserted, the filler moves along the insertion direction, thereby further enhancing the effects of the present invention.

[0052] Regarding the length of the cut formed on the sheet, for example, refer to Figure 9 To clarify, this length is relative to the total length of the sheet in the Y direction. If the length is 20% or more, then for... Figure 1 The insertion of the heating element (211) shown can more effectively utilize the effects of the present invention, and the effect is better if the length is 50% or more. In addition, if the length is 90% or less, it can prevent the filling material from moving in the insertion direction as the heating element (211) is inserted. When the length is 90% or less, it can prevent part of the filling material from falling out when the e-cigarette cartridge is removed from the e-cigarette body after use.

[0053] Although the slit spacing and length formed in the sheet have been described, the composition of each slit spacing W and length can also be changed in a sheet.

[0054] In addition, in this embodiment, when the filler is fixed to Figure 3 , Figure 4 as well as Figures 10-12 When the packaging component 151 is shown, it effectively prevents the filling material from falling off when the e-cigarette cartridge is removed from the e-cigarette body after use. This is because after the e-cigarette cartridge is used, the filling material may deteriorate due to heating, and the filling material may adhere to... Figure 1This can cause the filling material to detach after use, as shown on the heating element (211). If this detachment occurs, the inside of the e-cigarette body may become dirty and require more frequent cleaning, leading to usability issues.

[0055] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating an example of how an electronic cigarette cartridge (100) is used. The electronic cigarette cartridge (100) is installed in the electronic cigarette body (200) when used by the user. The electronic cigarette body (200) is provided with an insertion part (210) for inserting the electronic cigarette cartridge (100).

[0056] A heating element (211) is provided at the center of the bottom of the insertion part (210). The heating element (211) is a pin-shaped or blade-shaped member with a sharp tip and is inserted into the aerosol forming substrate (110) to heat the aerosol forming substrate (110). More specifically, when the electronic cigarette cartridge (100) is inserted into the insertion part (210) of the electronic cigarette body (200), the heating element (211) is inserted into the center of the aerosol forming substrate (110).

[0057] The heating element (211) generates heat directly or indirectly from electricity supplied by a battery (not shown) disposed in the electronic cigarette body (200). The heat from the heating element (211) heats the aerosol forming substrate (110), thereby generating an aerosol containing aromatic components. The generated aerosol is then transferred to the mouthpiece (140) via a support element (300) and a transfer member (130), described later, and the aromatic components reach the user's mouth when the user inhales the aerosol from the mouthpiece (140) side. In the following, for ease of explanation of embodiments of the present invention, the aerosol forming substrate (110) side of the electronic cigarette cartridge is referred to as the upstream side (10), and the mouthpiece side is referred to as the downstream side (20). In addition, the upstream side (10) is sometimes referred to as one end side, and the downstream side (20) is sometimes referred to as the other end side.

[0058] In addition, Figure 1 Although the heating element (211) is illustrated as having a single pin or blade-shaped component, it is alternatively possible to illustrate the case where the heating element (211) has two or more pin or blade-shaped components.

[0059] exist Figure 2 The image shows an example of the structure of an electronic cigarette cartridge (100). The electronic cigarette cartridge (100) includes an aerosol forming substrate (110), a support element (300), a delivery member (130), and a mouthpiece (140), which are inserted from... Figure 1The heating elements (211) shown are arranged sequentially from one side, i.e., from the upstream side (10) to the downstream side (20), and have, for example, a rod-shaped or cylindrical appearance.

[0060] A support element (300) supports an aerosol forming substrate (110). The support element (300) is disposed adjacent to the aerosol forming substrate (110), and a side (160) of the support element (300) contacts a packaging sheet (150) located at the periphery of the electronic cigarette cartridge (100). The side (160) is fixed to the inner surface of the packaging sheet (150), for example, by an adhesive.

[0061] In addition, the support element (300) can be appropriately formed, for example, with silicone resin, but not limited to silicone resin, and other materials with excellent heat resistance can also be used.

[0062] An aerosol forming substrate (110) is provided at the upstream end (10) of the electronic cigarette cartridge (100), and a mouthpiece (140) is provided at the downstream end (20). The direction connecting the aerosol forming substrate (110) and the mouthpiece (140), that is, the direction in which the four components of the aerosol forming substrate (110), the support element (300), the transfer member (130), and the mouthpiece (140) are arranged adjacent to each other, is defined as the longitudinal direction of the electronic cigarette cartridge (100).

[0063] The aerosol forming substrate (110), support element (300), transfer member (130), and mouthpiece (140) are packaged by a packaging sheet (150). Furthermore, for example, the longitudinal direction of the e-cigarette cartridge (100) is parallel to the longitudinal direction of the aerosol forming substrate (110). Additionally, relative to the e-cigarette filler shown in Figures 6B and 6C, the longitudinal direction of the e-cigarette cartridge (100) and the longitudinal direction of the aerosol forming substrate (110) are parallel to the Y-axis direction.

[0064] The aerosol forming substrate (110) contains a filler for electronic cigarettes, for example, by heating, an aerosol containing aromatic components of plants used as fillers for electronic cigarettes.

[0065] The support element (300) is formed, for example, from silicone resin, and is used to support the aerosol forming substrate (110). The sides of the support element (300) are fixed to the inner surface of the packaging sheet (150), for example, by an adhesive. In addition, the support element (300) is not limited to silicone resin, but can also be formed from other materials with excellent heat resistance.

[0066] As shown in the figure, the support element (300) has a through hole for gas flow at its center. The aerosol generated in the aerosol forming substrate (110) flows through this through hole in the direction along the mouthpiece (140). In addition, the support element (300) may also have through holes or cutouts for gas flow on its sides.

[0067] The transfer component (130) is made of a hollow tubular component or a material that is wound around a rolled polymer sheet along the longitudinal direction of the electronic cigarette cartridge (100), for example, to cool the aerosol flowing toward the mouthpiece (140).

[0068] The mouthpiece (140) is made of paper or similar materials. It may include a cellulose acetate filter or similar material for removing fine particles. The aromatic components are inhaled by the user through the filter of the mouthpiece (140).

[0069] Furthermore, the transfer member (130) can be omitted, thereby reducing the number of constituent elements. When the transfer member (130) is omitted, air permeability is improved, and the generated aerosol is more likely to flow to the downstream side (20), making it easier for the user to inhale the aromatic components.

[0070] As an example structure, the transfer member (130) can be omitted, and the elongated mouthpiece (140) can be adjacent to the support element (300) in the longitudinal direction of the e-cigarette cartridge (100). In this case, for example, a cellulose acetate filter can also serve a cooling function.

[0071] Furthermore, the packaging sheet (150) can also be used as a packaging component for packaging fillers in electronic cigarettes. This stabilizes the airflow of the aerosol, making it easier for users to inhale the aromatic components.

[0072] like Figure 3 As shown, the filler (111), which is made as an aerosol forming substrate (110), is rolled into a roll by winding a sheet, that is, a roll formed by winding a sheet around an approximate central axis (112) of the cross-section of the electronic cigarette cartridge. In this example, the filler is filled into a packaging member (151) formed into a cylindrical shape. As the packaging member (151), paper such as cigarette paper is rolled into a cylindrical shape. Alternatively, the packaging sheet (150) can also be used as the packaging member (151). In this way, the airflow is stabilized, and the user can easily inhale the aromatic components from the aerosol forming substrate (110).

[0073] Figure 4 (1)- Figure 4 (4) is a diagram illustrating an example of a method of filling with sheet material. Figure 4Each diagram shows the aerosol forming substrate (110) as viewed from the upstream side (10). Alternatively, it shows the aerosol forming substrate (110) as viewed in cross-section taken from a surface perpendicular to the centerline of the longitudinal direction of the e-cigarette cartridge.

[0074] Figure 4 (1) An example is shown in which a sheet is rolled up in the manner of a seaweed roll to form a roll and filled into a packaging component (151) as a filler (111).

[0075] exist Figure 4 In (2), the sheet is folded to a size that is substantially equal to or slightly smaller than the inner diameter of the packaging component (151), and the folded sheet is filled into the packaging component (151) as filler (111), wherein, during filling, the direction of the fold line of the sheet is aligned with the longitudinal direction of the e-cigarette cartridge.

[0076] exist Figure 4 In (3), the sheet is folded to a size larger than the inner diameter of the packaging component (151), and the entire folded sheet is further folded or bent and filled at approximately the center. During filling, the aforementioned fold lines are aligned with the longitudinal direction of the e-cigarette cartridge.

[0077] exist Figure 4 In (4), the sheet is folded to a width slightly smaller than the inner diameter of the packaging component (151), and this process includes, for example, a so-called curling process, in which the direction of the fold line of the sheet is aligned with the longitudinal direction of the e-cigarette cartridge during filling. Alternatively, the curled sheet can be formed as described above. Figure 4 (1)- Figure 4 (3) Sheets in the form of rolls, folded sheets, or sheets that are folded again or bent, preferably sheets formed as described above. Figure 4 (1)- Figure 4 (3) The filler shown.

[0078] Figure 5 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating a method for manufacturing filling materials for electronic cigarettes, as described in the embodiments. (See reference...) Figure 5 The method for manufacturing the filling material for electronic cigarettes involved in the embodiments will be described.

[0079] In the method for manufacturing filler for electronic cigarettes according to the embodiment, materials are prepared in step S101. In step S102, the prepared materials are mixed to form a non-tobacco plant composition. Then, in step S103, the non-tobacco plant composition formed in step S102 is processed to obtain the filler for electronic cigarettes.

[0080] Furthermore, the electronic cigarette filler obtained in step S103 can be used to manufacture electronic cigarette cartridges. This step is step S104.

[0081] The material preparation process of step S101 includes three steps: step S101a, step S101b, and step S101c. Step S101a is the process of drying and pulverizing non-tobacco plants, etc., used as aroma sources; step S101b is the process of dissolving menthol; and step S101c is the process of preparing materials such as aerosol forming agents. Steps S101a-S101c can be performed in any order. These steps can also be performed in parallel.

[0082] The process of drying and pulverizing non-tobacco plants in process S101a will be described. The non-tobacco plants are dried and then pulverized. Drying is performed, for example, by heating in an oven. The drying temperature is preferably 60°C to 80°C. Within this temperature range, the moisture content easily reaches the required level, and the loss (sublimation) of the desired aromatic components is avoided. When the drying temperature is 65°C or higher, the moisture content is more easily achieved. When the drying temperature is 75°C or lower, the loss of necessary aromatic components can be further prevented.

[0083] The pulverization can be performed, for example, using a stirring pulverizer. The parts of non-tobacco plants used (leaves, seeds, dried fruits, stems, bark, roots, etc.) are processed into the desired pulverized material to constitute a non-tobacco plant composition. At this time, it is preferable to adjust the moisture content to facilitate the absorption or carrying of components such as aerosol forming agents and water prepared in step S101c.

[0084] Furthermore, when non-tobacco plants or other materials do not require drying, they can be pulverized without drying. Additionally, when the raw materials do not require drying or pulverization and can be used as is, step S101a can be omitted, and the materials can be directly added to the raw material mixing step S102.

[0085] Furthermore, the moisture content of the dried and pulverized non-tobacco plants, etc., is preferably 5% by mass or less. This facilitates the formation of a slurry during the mixing process in step S102. More preferably, it is 3% by mass or less. Additionally, the moisture content of the dried and pulverized non-tobacco plants, etc., is preferably 0.1% by mass or more. This maintains good compatibility with water, etc.

[0086] Furthermore, the drying and pulverizing process of step S101a may include a sieving process for screening the dried and pulverized materials. By introducing the sieving process, non-tobacco plants and the like can be fed into the mixing process of step S102 at a desired particle size.

[0087] In one embodiment, the tea leaves are dried in an oven at 70°C, then pulverized using a stirring grinder and passed through an 80-mesh sieve. Their moisture content is 2% by mass.

[0088] Next, the process of dissolving menthol in step S101b will be described. In step S101b, menthol, a lower alcohol, and a water-insoluble cross-linked polymer are weighed and then mixed to dissolve the menthol. Preferably, the water-insoluble cross-linked polymer is added and mixed after the menthol has been dissolved in the lower alcohol. When menthol, the lower alcohol, and the water-insoluble cross-linked polymer are mixed, the loss of menthol can be suppressed.

[0089] Menthol is not limited to being obtained from natural products; it can be synthetic menthol. Materials containing peppermint, mint, peppermint oil, and other ingredients containing menthol may also be used.

[0090] Lower alcohols are solvents for dissolving menthol, with ethanol being particularly preferred.

[0091] Water-insoluble crosslinked polymers refer to substances that are insoluble in water and swell by crosslinking a water-soluble non-crosslinked polymer. Of course, polymers that swell but are insoluble in lower alcohols are preferred. Such water-insoluble crosslinked polymers have hydrophilic and hydrophobic portions; the hydrophilic portion facilitates swelling, and it is believed that when the hydrophilic portion is oriented towards menthol, it inhibits the loss of menthol. Preferred examples of water-insoluble crosslinked polymers include: polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), i.e., crosslinked PPVP, and non-water-soluble crosslinked polysaccharides formed by crosslinking water-soluble polysaccharides to make them insoluble in water, such as substances containing polysaccharides that undergo epoxy crosslinking, ester crosslinking, and ether crosslinking.

[0092] Furthermore, when ethanol and polyvinylpyrrolidone are used together with menthol, a significant effect in inhibiting the loss of menthol can be achieved.

[0093] Menthol can be added in the amount desired for the desired flavor. As a standard for the desired menthol flavor, the menthol content of the electronic cigarette filler obtained in step S103 is preferably 0.1% by mass or more and 10% by mass or less. More preferably, it is 0.2% by mass or more and 5% by mass or less.

[0094] When forming the filler for electronic cigarettes, the amount of water-insoluble crosslinking polymer added relative to 100 parts by weight of menthol is preferably 10 parts by weight or more and 2000 parts by weight or less, more preferably 50 parts by weight or more and 600 parts by weight or less. In other words, in the filler for electronic cigarettes, the content of the water-insoluble crosslinking polymer is preferably 0.1 times or more and 20 times more than the content of menthol, more preferably 0.5 times or more and 6 times more than the content of menthol.

[0095] To suppress menthol loss, the content of water-insoluble cross-linked polymer in the e-cigarette filler is preferably 2% by mass or more, more preferably 4% by mass or more. By using this amount of water-insoluble cross-linked polymer, menthol loss can be suppressed, the e-cigarette filler can be preserved for a long time, and the refreshing flavor of menthol can still be enjoyed even after long-term storage. The content of water-insoluble cross-linked polymer in the e-cigarette filler is preferably 20% by mass or less, more preferably 10% by mass or less. When its content is within 10% by mass, the flavor of polyphenols and the like from non-plant sources can be retained.

[0096] The lower alcohol used is preferably 50 parts by mass or more relative to 100 parts by mass of menthol. Furthermore, when the amount of lower alcohol used is 100 parts by mass or more, it can be thoroughly mixed with the water-insoluble crosslinking polymer while dissolving the menthol. When this amount is 2000 parts by mass or less, the residual amount of lower alcohol can be reduced in subsequent processes, and an efficient manufacturing process can be achieved.

[0097] In one example, the following materials were weighed: 100 parts by weight of menthol 200 parts by weight of ethanol 200 parts by weight of polyvinylpyrrolidone Menthol is dissolved in ethanol to obtain a menthol ethanol solution. Polyvinyl polypyrrolidone is then added to the menthol ethanol solution and mixed by stirring to obtain a menthol / ethanol / polyvinyl polypyrrolidone mixture.

[0098] The process of preparing materials such as aerosol forming agents in process S101c will be described. In process S101c, aerosol forming agents, flavor additives, preservatives, binders, thickeners, etc., are prepared.

[0099] In addition, food preservatives can be added as needed. Examples of preservatives include sorbic acid, potassium sorbate, benzoic acid, and sodium benzoate.

[0100] As adhesives or thickeners, gums such as guar gum, xanthan gum, gum arabic, and locust bean gum can be used; cellulose adhesives such as hydroxypropyl cellulose, carboxymethyl cellulose, hydroxyethyl cellulose, methyl cellulose, and ethyl cellulose can be used; and polysaccharides such as starch polysaccharides, alginate, sodium alginate, sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, carrageenan, and conjugated basic salts of organic acids such as agar and pectin can be used. Combinations of these substances can also be used.

[0101] In one embodiment, glycerol, propylene glycol, sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, and methyl cellulose were prepared. Further, an aqueous solution of xylitol and glucomannan were prepared, obtained by stirring and mixing 100 parts by weight of xylitol and 400 parts by weight of water.

[0102] Next, step S102 will be described. In step S102, the materials prepared in step S101 are weighed and mixed to obtain, for example, a pulp of a non-tobacco plant composition.

[0103] In the mixing step of step S102, a conventional mixer can be used. For example, it is preferable to use a mixer that mixes the materials in the mixing tank by means of stirring blades while applying shear force.

[0104] The non-tobacco plant composition is obtained by mixing pulverized and dried non-tobacco plants, menthol solution, aerosol forming agent, binder or thickener, and water as needed.

[0105] In one example, the following materials are added to a mixer and mixed for 15 minutes to form a non-tobacco plant composition: 100 parts by weight of powdered and dried black tea leaves 25 parts by weight of a mixture of menthol / ethanol / polyvinylpyrrolidone 30 parts by weight of glycerin 30 parts by weight of propylene glycol 4 parts by weight of sodium carboxymethyl cellulose 15 parts by weight of methylcellulose 8 parts by weight of xylitol aqueous solution 1 part by weight of glucomannan Step S103 will be described. In step S103, the non-tobacco plant composition formed in step S102 is processed to obtain a filler for electronic cigarettes.

[0106] In step S103, the non-tobacco plant composition obtained in step S102 is first molded into a sheet. The planar shape of the sheet is arbitrary.

[0107] In one embodiment, a three-roll mill (described separately in Example 7) is used to form the non-tobacco plant composition into a sheet. When using a three-roll mill, a sheet of desired thickness can be formed by a scraper, while shear forces are used to knead and disperse the material due to the different rotational speeds of the rolls, and to compress the material drawn into the narrow gap between the rolls. In addition to using a three-roll mill, pressure rolls and punching machines may also be suitably used to form the non-tobacco plant composition into a sheet.

[0108] In the process of forming the non-tobacco plant composition into a sheet, non-tobacco plants, aerosol forming agents, flavor additives, preservatives, binders or thickeners, water, etc., may be added as needed.

[0109] Furthermore, the water used in the manufacture of filling materials for electronic cigarettes is preferably sterile water or water from which microorganisms have been removed. Pure water obtained through reverse osmosis membranes or ion exchange is also preferred.

[0110] In one embodiment, a process is repeated eight times to obtain the final sheet-like non-tobacco plant composition by feeding the non-tobacco plant composition into a three-roll mill, adding 20 parts by weight of pure water while observing the state of the sheet, and pressing a scraper onto the rolls to collect the sheet.

[0111] In the process of forming the non-tobacco plant composition into a sheet, the thickness of the obtained sheet is preferably 0.1 mm to 1.0 mm, more preferably 0.1 mm to 0.5 mm. In one embodiment, the non-tobacco plant composition is formed into a sheet with a thickness of about 0.3 mm.

[0112] As an example of a method, the following can be listed: Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figures 10-12 The method shown is for filling a sheet into a packaging component (151), etc. Other methods can be listed as follows: Figure 2 and Figure 7 The method shown involves processing a sheet with predetermined slits into a desired shape to form a sheet member with slits; processing a sheet made as filler (111) into a desired shape; forming slits therein to obtain a sheet member with slits; and then filling it as filler (111) into a packaging sheet (150) or the like. Further, as an effective method, one could list: processing a sheet into a desired shape for filling; forming slits therein to obtain a sheet member with slits; and filling the sheet member as filler (111) into a packaging sheet (150) or the like. Further, as an effective method, one could list: processing a sheet into a desired shape and filling it as filler into a packaging sheet (150) or the like, followed by forming slits, thereby obtaining a sheet member with slits. Additionally, although the sheet has slits, the sheet is connected by portions without slits.

[0113] Then, a cut is formed in the non-tobacco plant composition, which is formed into a sheet. The cut is formed at a depth that does not penetrate the sheet in the thickness direction, for example, at a depth of about half the thickness of the sheet. The cut can be formed by using a rotary cutter, such as one with a rotating blade.

[0114] Furthermore, the incision can be formed simultaneously with the process of molding the non-tobacco plant composition into sheets.

[0115] Figure 6A is a schematic perspective view of a portion of a sheet of a non-tobacco plant composition with slits formed in the thickness direction. In the example of Figure 6A, the thickness direction of the sheet is parallel to the Z-axis direction, and two or more slits (F) are formed in the sheet from the surface on the positive Z-axis side to near the center in the thickness direction. Each slit (F) extends in the Y-axis direction.

[0116] Figure 6B is a schematic plan view of a sheet of non-tobacco plant composition with slits formed in the thickness direction. In the example shown in Figure 6B, two or more slits (F) with a length of approximately 12 mm are formed in the Y-axis direction from the surface on the positive Z-axis side, such that their ends are adjacent to each other in the X-axis direction.

[0117] The electronic cigarette filler involved in the embodiments can be obtained, for example, by cutting a sheet of non-smoking plant composition along the dashed and dotted lines shown in FIG. 6B. As an example, a rotary cutter with a rotating blade can be used for cutting.

[0118] Figure 6C is a schematic plan view showing the electronic cigarette filler according to the embodiment. The electronic cigarette filler shown in Figure 6C is a sheet with a generally rectangular planar shape, with a length (thickness) of approximately 0.3 mm along the Z-axis, a length of approximately 75 mm along the X-axis, and a length of approximately 12 mm along the Y-axis. The electronic cigarette filler according to the embodiment has two or more cuts (F), which are formed in the thickness direction from the surface on the positive Z-axis side to a depth of approximately 0.15 mm. Each cut (F) is formed from one long side of the rectangular electronic cigarette filler, that is, one side extending in the X-axis direction, and has a length of approximately 6 mm in the extension direction of the short side of the rectangular electronic cigarette filler, that is, in the Y-axis direction. The two or more cuts (F) are arranged at equal intervals in the X-axis direction.

[0119] Furthermore, the shape and size of the filling material for electronic cigarettes can be varied. For example, it can be formed into a rectangular planar shape with the longer side being approximately 2 to 20 times the length of the shorter side.

[0120] Figures 6D-6J are schematic plan views showing the filler material for electronic cigarettes involved in the modified examples.

[0121] The example shown in Figure 6D differs from the example shown in Figure 6C in that each cut (F) is formed along the Y-axis from one long side of the rectangular electronic cigarette filler to the other long side.

[0122] The example shown in Figure 6E differs from the example shown in Figure 6C in that, in the half of the non-tobacco plant composition sheet on the negative X-axis side, each cut (F) is formed from one long side, i.e., the long side on the negative Y-axis side, in the negative Y-axis direction, with a length of approximately 6 mm, while in the half of the X-axis side, each cut (F) is formed from the other long side, i.e., the long side on the negative Y-axis side, in the positive Y-axis direction, with a length of approximately 6 mm.

[0123] In the example shown in Figure 6F, a cut (F) of approximately 6 mm in length is formed on one long side, i.e., the long side from the positive direction of the Y-axis, in the negative direction of the Y-axis, and a cut (F) of approximately 6 mm in length is formed on the other long side, i.e., the long side from the negative direction of the Y-axis, in the positive direction of the Y-axis, are alternately arranged in the X-axis direction.

[0124] In the example of the filling material for electronic cigarettes shown in Figure 6G, the cut (F) extending in the Y-axis direction is arranged along a diagonal direction that intersects both the X-axis and Y-axis directions.

[0125] The example of electronic cigarette filler shown in Figure 6H differs from the examples shown in Figures 6C-6G in that it has cuts (F) formed in an inclined direction rather than parallel to the Y-axis. Furthermore, the length of the Y-axis component of each cut (F) is longer than the length of the X-axis component.

[0126] In the examples shown in Figures 6C to 6H, the cut (F) is formed from the surface on the positive Z-axis side along the thickness direction, but it can also be formed from the surface on the negative Z-axis side (back side) along the thickness direction.

[0127] Figures 6I and 6J show examples of cuts (F) formed on the surfaces from the positive Z-axis side and the negative Z-axis side, respectively. In both figures, cuts (F) formed from the positive Z-axis side are represented by solid lines, and cuts (F) formed from the negative Z-axis side are represented by dashed lines.

[0128] In the example shown in Figure 6I, a cut (F) extending from one long side, i.e., the long side in the positive Y-axis direction, is formed from the surface in the positive Z-axis direction, and a cut (F) extending from the other long side, i.e., the long side in the negative Y-axis direction, is formed from the surface in the negative Z-axis direction. The difference from the example shown in Figure 6F is that the cut (F) extending from the other long side is formed from the surface in the negative Z-axis direction (relative to the lower side of the vertical axis).

[0129] Figure 6J shows an example of cuts (F) formed by tilting from the positive Z-axis side and cuts (F) formed by tilting from the negative Z-axis side intersecting each other in a planar view. In the example shown in Figure 6J, the length of the Y-axis component of each cut (F) is longer than the length of the X-axis component.

[0130] Reference Figure 7 The manufacturing process of the electronic cigarette cartridge in process S104 will be explained. Figure 7 The image shows an aerosol forming substrate (110), a transfer member (130), a mouthpiece (140), and a support element (300) arranged in the order of aerosol forming substrate (110), support element (300), transfer member (130), and mouthpiece (140), and wound into a rod shape by a packaging sheet (150) such as cigarette paper. In this case, the side (160) of the support element is an electronic cigarette cartridge (100) to which some adhesive has been applied. Alternatively, adhesive can be applied to the side of the aerosol forming substrate (110) and fixed to the packaging sheet (150).

[0131] In manufacturing electronic cigarette cartridges, for example, along the dashed line in Figure 6B, a sheet of non-tobacco plant composition is cut in the Y-axis direction. The cut sheet is then wound with one or more sheets of cigarette paper as packaging components to form a roll with an outer diameter of approximately 6.9 mm, extending along the Y-axis direction. This roll is then cut into 12 mm lengths using a cutter to obtain an aerosol forming substrate (110). The roll is cut along the dotted line in Figure 6B.

[0132] The aerosol forming substrate (110) is, for example, the filler for electronic cigarettes according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 6C. Specifically, a non-tobacco plant composition is disposed inside a packaging member formed into a cylindrical shape, wherein the short side of the rectangle of the non-tobacco plant composition is 12 mm, and a cut (F) is formed in a direction parallel to the extension direction of the short side. Inside the packaging member, the filler for electronic cigarettes, as shown in FIG. 6C, is disposed from one end to the other end of the 12 mm long aerosol forming substrate (110). The direction in which the short side of the rectangle of the filler for electronic cigarettes extends is, for example, generally parallel to the longitudinal direction of the aerosol forming substrate (110).

[0133] In addition, the aerosol forming substrate (110) can also be configured by arranging a sheet of rectangular electronic cigarette filler with a short side less than 12 mm adjacent to or partially overlapping the longitudinal direction of the aerosol forming substrate (110).

[0134] The mass of the aerosol forming substrate (110) is, for example, about 0.29 g, and the volume filler for the electronic cigarette has a volume ratio of about 0.60 relative to the volume of the aerosol forming substrate (110). The volume ratio of the electronic cigarette filler can be determined by considering factors such as the aroma intensity provided to the user or the ease of inhalation for the user. Preferably, the volume filler for the electronic cigarette has a volume ratio of 0.55 to 0.65 relative to the volume of the aerosol forming substrate (110).

[0135] In addition to the aerosol forming substrate (110), a support element (300), a transfer member (130), and a mouthpiece (140) are also prepared. These four elements are then arranged adjacent to each other in one direction in this order and wound with a packaging sheet (150) such as cigarette paper to form an electronic cigarette cartridge. At this time, the aerosol forming substrate (110) is configured such that the long side of the electronic cigarette filler with the cut (F) is located at the end side of the electronic cigarette cartridge, i.e., the side opposite to the support element (300). Furthermore, some adhesive is pre-applied to the side of the support element (300). Additionally, the four elements can be sequentially inserted into the pre-formed cylindrical packaging sheet (150).

[0136] In this way, the electronic cigarette cartridges involved in the implementation method were manufactured.

[0137] Figures 6-1 to 6-4 The electronic cigarette filler involved in the embodiment shown is in sheet form, and a cut (F) is formed in the thickness direction of the sheet that does not penetrate the depth of the sheet.

[0138] The aerosol forming substrate (110) of the electronic cigarette cartridge (100) according to the embodiment is formed using the electronic cigarette filler according to the embodiment. In the electronic cigarette cartridge (100) according to the embodiment, the longitudinal direction of the electronic cigarette cartridge (100), that is, the longitudinal direction of the aerosol forming substrate (110), is substantially parallel to the extension direction of the cut (F) formed in the electronic cigarette filler.

[0139] In addition, in the electronic cigarette cartridge (100) according to the embodiment, the side of the cut (F) forming the electronic cigarette filler is the upstream side (10) of the electronic cigarette cartridge (100). That is, when the electronic cigarette cartridge (100) is installed on the electronic cigarette body (200) for use, the aerosol forming substrate (110) is arranged on the side where the heating element (211) is inserted.

[0140] Therefore, when the electronic cigarette cartridge (100) according to the embodiment is installed on the electronic cigarette body (200), the heating element (211) can be smoothly inserted into the aerosol forming substrate (110).

[0141] In addition, the aerosol generated in the aerosol forming substrate (110) tends to flow toward the mouthpiece (140).

[0142] The electronic cigarette filler and electronic cigarette cartridge involved in the embodiments are high-quality electronic cigarette fillers and electronic cigarette cartridges.

[0143] Furthermore, when using the electronic cigarette filler involved in the modified examples shown in FIG6H and FIG6J, that is, when an electronic cigarette cartridge (100) is made of an electronic cigarette filler with a cut (F) in which the length of the Y-axis component is longer than the length of the X-axis component in the inclined direction, for example, an aerosol forming substrate (110) and an electronic cigarette cartridge (100) are manufactured in such a way that the Y-axis direction of the electronic cigarette filler is parallel to the longitudinal direction of the electronic cigarette cartridge (100).

[0144] In the electronic cigarette cartridge (100) manufactured using the electronic cigarette filler involved in the modified example, the heating element (211) can also be smoothly inserted into the aerosol forming substrate (110).

[0145] Furthermore, in the electronic cigarette cartridge (100), it is only necessary to configure the electronic cigarette filler such that the length of the component of the cut (F) in the longitudinal direction of the cartridge is greater than the length of the in-plane component perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

[0146] The present invention has been described above with reference to the embodiments, etc., but the present invention is not limited to these embodiments.

[0147] For example, in the embodiments, although the cut (F) is formed as a straight line, it can also be formed as a curve. Similar to the embodiments, the length of the Y-axis component of the cut (F) is longer than the length of the X-axis component.

[0148] In addition, in the electronic cigarette cartridge (100) according to the embodiment, a cap may be disposed on the upstream side (10) of the aerosol forming substrate (110). As a result, the loss of aroma of the electronic cigarette filler can be suppressed, and the electronic cigarette filler can also be prevented from falling off the electronic cigarette cartridge (100) for example during transportation.

[0149] The lid can be made of a filter, paper, sponge, etc. Furthermore, for example, by forming one or more slits in the lid, the heating element (211) can be easily inserted. Guide holes, such as circular or polygonal ones, can be provided at the insertion point of the heating element (211).

[0150] Furthermore, in the electronic cigarette cartridge (100) according to the embodiment, a separator may be provided between the aerosol forming substrate (110) and the support element (300). The separator may be formed, for example, from a filter or paper with good air permeability. It is preferable to use a material that will break when the heating element (211) is inserted. By providing the separator, the electronic cigarette filler can be prevented from moving within the electronic cigarette cartridge (100) during transportation or other processes.

[0151] Furthermore, the electronic cigarette cartridge (100) involved in the embodiments can be installed on an electronic cigarette body that does not have a heating element.

[0152] Next, we will describe in detail the usage examples of the electronic cigarette cartridge of the present invention.

[0153] like Figure 2 As shown, the electronic cigarette cartridge (100) has, for example, a rod-shaped or cylindrical appearance. Inside the electronic cigarette cartridge (100), an aerosol forming substrate (110) is provided at one end, and a support element (300) and a conveying member (130) are sequentially provided in the direction toward the mouthpiece (140) at the other end. Then, as... Figure 2 and Figure 7 As shown, they are packaged in packaging sheet (150).

[0154] The aerosol forming substrate (110) has a filler for electronic cigarettes. When heated, the aerosol forming substrate (110) produces an aerosol containing aromatic components from plants that are the source of the filler.

[0155] The sheet is used as a filler in the aerosol forming substrate (110) in a wound or folded manner. When the sheet is assembled, the wound or folded state also includes the state in which the sheet is rolled in, folded, compressed, or shrunken. Preferably, the sheet is a sheet that has undergone treatments such as wrinkling or pleating.

[0156] The support element (300) supports the aerosol forming substrate (110). The support element (300) is disposed adjacent to the aerosol forming substrate (110) and has through holes or cuts for gas flow in its center or side, so that the aerosol generated by the aerosol forming substrate (110) can flow toward the mouthpiece (140).

[0157] The mouthpiece (140) and the transfer member (130) are disposed adjacently on the downstream side (20) of the electronic cigarette cartridge (100). The mouthpiece (140) may also include, for example, a cellulose acetate filter as a filter for removing fine particles. The user inhales the aroma components that have passed through the filter of the mouthpiece (140).

[0158] When comparing the cases with and without the transfer member (130), the air permeability is better without the transfer member (130), which makes it easier for the generated aromatic components to be inhaled. On the other hand, it is also preferable to add a transfer member (130) to achieve the function of cooling the generated aerosol. Instead of adding a transfer member (130), it is also preferable to extend the mouthpiece to abut or contact the support element (300). This is because the filter used for the mouthpiece also serves a cooling function and can reduce the number of parts. As the transfer member (130), a hollow tubular component can be used, and a rolled polymer sheet wound in the longitudinal direction of the e-cigarette cartridge can be used.

[0159] Figure 8 (1) A structure is shown in which the aerosol forming substrate (110) contacts the support element (300). This structure is preferred because it can stably support the aerosol forming substrate (110). In addition, it is very advantageous in terms of manufacturing due to its simple structure.

[0160] Figure 8 (2) A structure in which a separator (180) is provided between the aerosol forming substrate (110) and the support element (300), such that they contact each other through the separator (180). The separator (180) is, for example, a filter or paper with good air permeability, and preferably a material that will break when the heating element (211) is inserted. Providing such a separator can effectively prevent the aerosol forming substrate (110) from moving in the e-cigarette cartridge due to the influence of physical distribution during transportation, etc.

[0161] Figure 8 (3) Another preferred structure is shown, wherein a cover (170) is provided on one side of the aerosol forming substrate (110) where the heating element (211) is inserted. In this way, the aroma of the aerosol forming substrate (110) can be effectively prevented from dissipating. Furthermore, this structure can also effectively prevent the aerosol forming substrate (110) from falling out of the e-cigarette cartridge due to the influence of physical distribution during transportation, etc. As materials for the cover (170), filters, paper, sponges, etc. can be listed. In addition, when the heating element is inserted, it is preferred to form one or more cuts on the cover (170), or to provide circular or polygonal guide holes at the location where the heating element is inserted.

[0162] The following describes a preferred method for using electronic cigarette cartridges.

[0163] In the aerosol forming substrate (110), the filler is formed into an approximately cylindrical shape by packaging such as cigarette paper, and the diameter of the bottom or top surface of the approximately cylindrical shape is 6.5 mm or more and 7.5 mm or less, and the height of the approximately cylindrical shape is 10.0 mm or more and 15.0 mm or less, preferably 11.0 mm or more and 13.0 mm or less.

[0164] Furthermore, the filler is preferably rod-shaped or strip-shaped and is filled along the longitudinal direction of the electronic cigarette cartridge, and the length of the filler is substantially equal to the height of the approximate cylinder. That is, the length of the filler is 10.0 mm to 15.0 mm, preferably 11.0 mm to 13.0 mm.

[0165] Furthermore, the outer diameter of the preferred support element (300) is substantially equal to the diameter of the approximately cylindrical bottom or top surface of the aerosol forming substrate (110). The length is 9.0 mm or more and 11.0 mm or less.

[0166] In addition, the length of the mouthpiece (140) is more than 20.0 mm, preferably more than 21.0 mm and less than 25.0 mm.

[0167] Furthermore, it is preferable that the volume fill rate of the aerosol forming substrate is 0.55 or higher and 0.65 or lower.

[0168] The following describes non-tobacco plants used as aerosol-forming substrates in this invention.

[0169] The non-tobacco plants used as raw materials will be described. As for the non-tobacco plants used in this embodiment, there are no particular restrictions as long as they are plants other than tobacco. As for the plant parts used, various parts such as roots (including bulbs, tubers, etc.), stems, tubers, bark (including stem bark, bark, etc.), leaves, flowers (including petals, pistils, stamens, etc.), trunks and branches can be used.

[0170] Examples of bulbs include: onion, lycoris radiata, tulip, hyacinth, garlic, scallion, and lily; examples of corms include: saffron, gladiolus, freesia, iris, taro, and konjac; examples of tubers include: konjac, cyclamen, sea anemone, begonia, morning glory, potato, and apios; examples of rhizomes include: canna lily, lotus (lotus root), and ginger; examples of tuberous roots include: dahlia, sweet potato, cassava, and Jerusalem artichoke; examples of rootstocks include: *Dioscorea* (yam, Japanese yam, and other yam species); examples of others include: turnip, burdock, carrot, radish, and kudzu root. Examples of stems include: asparagus, bamboo shoots, bamboo shoots, radish, and Jerusalem artichoke.

[0171] The tubers mentioned above or the plants listed below contain carbohydrates, and are preferably at least a portion of the material used as filler (111). For example, starches include corn starch (corn), potato starch (potato), sweet potato starch (sweet potato), cassava starch (cassava), etc., and are used as thickeners, stabilizers, etc. These starches can improve acid resistance, heat resistance, and shear resistance through cross-linking; improve storage stability and promote gelatinization through esterification and etherification; and improve transparency, coating properties, and storage stability through oxidation.

[0172] Tamarind seed gum, guar gum, and locust bean gum can be obtained from plant seeds; gum arabic and ebony gum can be obtained from tree sap; pectin can be obtained from fruits; and cellulose, konjac mannan (mainly composed of agarose), and soybean polysaccharides can be obtained from other plants. Furthermore, it can be modified and used in the same way as cationic guar gum.

[0173] Carrageenan, which is classified into three types: Kappa carrageenan, Iota carrageenan, and Lambda carrageenan, as well as agar and alginic acid, can be obtained from seaweed. They can also be used as metal salts of carrageenan, salts of sodium alginate, etc.

[0174] To provide specific examples, plants used as herbs or spices include gardenia fruit, mandarin orange leaves, myoga, artemisia, mustard, ajwain seeds, anise, alfalfa, echinacea, shallots, tarragon, sempervivum, elderberry, allspice, orris root, oregano, orange peel, orange blossom, orange leaves, and cayennechili. pepper), German chamomile, Roman chamomile, cardamom, curry leaves, garlic, catnip, caraway, caraway seeds, osmanthus, cumin, cumin seeds, cloves, green cardamom, green pepper, cornflower, saffron, cedar, cinnamon bark, jasmine, juniper berries, ghost pepper, ginger, star anise, spearmint, sumac, sage, peppermint, celery, celery seeds, turmeric, thyme, tamarind, tarragon, chervil, chives, dill, dill seeds, tomato (dried tomato), tonka beans, dried coriander, nutmeg, hibiscus, habanero pepper, jalapeno pepper, bird's eye pepper eye), basil, herbs, coriander, parsley, paprika, hyssop, espelt pepper, pink pepper, fenugreek seeds, fennel, black mustard, black cardamom, black cumin, black pepper, vetiver, peppermint, horseradish, white pepper, white mustard, poppy seeds, porcini, marjoram, mustard seeds, manigato, calendula, malva flower, nutmeg, yarrow flower, eucalyptus, lavender, licorice, lindane, red clover, red pepper, lemongrass, lemon verbena, lemon balm, lemon peel, rose, rosebud (purple), rosehip, rose petals, rosemary, rose red, bay leaves, long pepper, sesame (raw sesame, roasted sesame), golden pepper Pepper, Sichuan pepper, three-eagle pepper, mountain pepper, chili, pomelo, etc. In addition, it can use a mixture of various plants used as blended spices (such as five-spice powder, spicy spice powder, Moroccan blended spices, artichoke, curry chicken spice, tandoori spice, four spices, Provençal herbs) or wildflowers.

[0175] Alternatively, you can use fruits (the fleshy part) or seeds such as peaches, blueberries, lemons, oranges, apples, bananas, pineapples, mangoes, grapes, kumquats, melons, plums, almonds, cocoa, coffee, peanuts, sunflowers, olives, walnuts, and other nuts.

[0176] Alternatively, tea can also be used. Tea varieties differ not only in the plants used to make them, but even the same plant can produce different teas depending on the processing method. Specifically, examples include Japanese tea, black tea, *Ashita no Yuka* tea, Japanese sweet tea, *Gynostemma pentaphyllum* tea, aloe vera tea, ginkgo leaf tea, oolong tea, turmeric tea, *Quercus acutissima* tea, *Eleutherococcus senticosus* tea, plantain tea, *Glechoma hederacea* tea, persimmon leaf tea, chamomile tea, German chamomile tea, *Houttuynia cordata* tea, prickly ash tea, chrysanthemum tea, *Gymnocalycium mihanovichii* tea, guava tea, goji berry tea, and mulberry leaf tea. Teas include black bean tea, geranium tea, brown rice tea, burdock tea, daisy tea, kelp tea, cherry blossom tea, saffron tea, shiitake mushroom tea, perilla tea, jasmine tea, ginger tea, horsetail tea, calamus tea, thousand-leaf tea, buckwheat tea, aralia tea, dandelion tea, sweet tea, houttuynia cordata tea, eucommia tea, sword bean tea, elderberry tea, Japanese privet tea, coix seed tea, cassia seed tea, loquat leaf tea, pu-erh tea, safflower tea, pine needle tea, yerba mate tea, barley tea, hairy maple tea, artemisia tea, eucalyptus tea, monk fruit tea, South African basil tea, bitter melon tea, etc. The leftover tea leaves can also be used for these teas. Using tea leaves allows for the efficient reuse of high-value teas.

[0177] As mentioned above, although kelp is listed as a specific example of a plant that can be used, other plants that can obviously be used include Ulva procumbens, sea lettuce, seaweed, laver, black kelp, rock seaweed, gecko, Gracilaria, thick-leaved kelp, kelp rhizome, sea grape, brown algae kelp, kelp, striped laver, red algae, Thousand Island black laver, hydrangea, gecko, Torolo kelp, cat's foot kelp, nori, daylily, Sargassum fusiforme, blue laver, undaria undariodes (yendo) okamyura, sea lettuce, seaweed, Japanese true kelp, wakame spore leaf, seaweed, and wakame.

[0178] As mentioned above, while brown rice is listed as a specific example of a plant that can be used, other varieties besides rice can obviously be used, such as indica (Indian type, continental type, long grain), oryza glaberrima (smooth rice), sativa seed (Asian rice), Java (Java type, tropical island type, large grain), japonica (Japanese type, temperate island type, short grain), and new African rice (an interspecific hybrid of Asian rice and smooth rice), and can also be used as flour or bran.

[0179] Furthermore, as specific examples of plants that can be used, although wheat is listed, other plants that can obviously be used include millet, cultivated oats (a cultivated variety of wild oats, also called oats (oat ts)), barley, wild oats, sorghum, paspalum scrobiculatum L, wheat, teff, pearl millet, barley (a variety of barley), Job's tears (fruit, not seed), barley, fonio, wild rice, glutinous wheat (a sticky variety of barley), sorghum, corn, and rye.

[0180] Furthermore, as a specific example of a plant that can be used, although black beans are listed, other examples from the legume family that can obviously be used include adzuki beans, carob beans, kidney beans, kabochaenomeles, black beans, cowpeas, winged beans, ground beans, broad beans, soybeans, rice beans, sword beans, tamarind, green beans, sword beans, lentils, basil beans, Bambara groundnuts, chickpeas, lentils, horse gram beans, lima beans, peanuts, mung beans, lupins, lentils, and lentils (small lentils).

[0181] Furthermore, as specific examples of plants that can be used, although buckwheat has been listed, other examples of plants that can obviously be used include red amaranth (amaranthus), quinoa, and bitter buckwheat.

[0182] Furthermore, as specific examples of plants that can be used, although shiitake mushrooms are listed, as mushrooms, others that can be listed include: matsutake, red lactus mushroom, shiitake mushroom, truffle, oyster mushroom, and agaric mushroom.

[0183] In addition, the trunks or branches, bark or leaves, and roots of aromatic trees such as sugarcane (or residue after sugar extraction), beets (sugar radishes), cypress, pine, cedar, camellia, and sandalwood can also be used. Ferns and mosses can also be used as non-tobacco plants. Furthermore, as plants, byproducts or residues from the production of fermented beverages such as sake and wine (lees, grape pomace (including grape skins or seeds, stalks, etc.)) can also be used. Furthermore, a mixture of the above-mentioned plants can be used. Of course, plants not listed here can also be used.

[0184] Furthermore, as Chinese herbal medicines, known plants are also preferably used, for example, the following plants: Indigo, madder root, red-eye cypress, gambier, benzoin, clematis root, oriental wormwood, fennel, turmeric, black plum, lindera root, willow oak (Japanese: urashirokashi), bearberry leaf, rose nut, corydalis tuber, prunella vulgaris, astragalus, scutellaria baicalensis, polygonatum sibiricum, phellodendron bark, coptis chinensis, cherry bark, yellow loosestrife, polygala tenuifolia, sophora flower, allium macrostemon, prunella vulgaris, myrobalan, polygonum multiflorum, curcuma zedoary, patchouli, pueraria lobata, chamomile, trichosanthes root, trichosanthes seed, dried ginger, licorice, coltsfoot flower, mugwort leaf, platycodon grandiflorum, hovenia dulcis fruit, bitter orange peel, immature bitter orange, chrysanthemum, tangerine peel, notopterygium, apricot kernel, kumquat, honeysuckle, lysimachia christinae, medlar, medlar leaf, sophora flavescens, walnut, melia azedarach bark, lindera umbellata, dianthus superbus, schizonepeta, cassia bark, cassia seed, pharbitis seed, scrophularia ningpoensis, maltose, safflower, albizia bark, dalbergia odorifera, fermented soybean, elsholtzia, red ginseng, cyperus rotundus, polished round-grained rice, mangnolia officinalis, ligusticum sinense, acanthopanax bark, achyranthes bidentata, evodia rutaecarpa, polygonum cuspidatum root, arctium lappa fruit, schisandra chinensis, bupleurum, asarum, crocus sativus, Sartorius rose, hawthorn fruit, gardenia fruit, cornus officinalis, sophora tonkinensis, wild jujube seed, zanthoxylum, three-edged tuber, dioscorea opposita, rehmannia glutinosa, aster tataricus, lycium chinense, lithospermum, perilla seed, perilla leaf, tribulus terrestris fruit, persimmon calyx, kochia scoparia fruit, peony, cnidium monnieri fruit, adenophora stricta, plantago seed, plantago herb, amomum villosum, houttuynia cordata, fresh ginger, palm fruit, palm leaf, cimicifuga foetida, wheat, acorus calamus root, magnolia flower, glossy privet fruit, fraxinus rhynchophylla, medicated leaven, gentiana macrophylla, leonurus fruit, zanthoxylum seed, green tangerine peel, acorus tatarinowii root, pomegranate peel, dendrobium nobile, ligusticum chuanxiong, peucedanum praeruptorum, platycodon grandiflorus, inula japonica flower, sambucus williamsii, amomum tsaoko, gleditsia sinensis spine, taxillus chinensis, xanthium sibiricum, atractylodes lancea, platycladus orientalis leaf, dipsacus asper, morus alba bark, sappan wood, perilla leaf, gleditsia sinensis, rheum officinale, jujube, areca peel, alisma orientalis, salvia miltiorrhiza, bamboo shavings, panax japonicus, bamboo leaf, anemarrhena asphodeloides, sanguisorba officinalis, clove, uncaria hook, dried tangerine peel, arisaema heterophyllum, gastrodia elata, asparagus cochinchinensis, winter melon seed, angelica sinensis, sesame, codonopsis pilosula, juncus effusus, peach kernel, orange peel, cuscuta chinensis, Japanese horse chestnut, eucommia ulmoides, angelica biserrata, trichosanthes root, cistanche deserticola, myristica fragrans, lonicera japonica, ginseng, fritillaria, malt, platycladus seed, white hyacinth bean, ophiopogon japonicus, psoralea corylifolia, mint, guava, pinellia ternata, vipera antivenom, isatis root, scutellaria barbata, lily bulb, angelica dahurica, hedyotis diffusa, stemona root, atractylodes macrocephala, areca seed, stephania tetrandra, imperata cylindrica root, saposhnikovia divaricata, typhae pollen, dandelion root, moutan bark, ephedra, hemp seed, vitex trifolia fruit, pine resin, akebia quinate, chaenomeles speciosa, aucklandia lappa, myrrh, equisetum hiemale, belamcanda chinensis, alpinia oxyphylla fruit, polygonum multiflorum stem, siraitia grosvenorii, eupatorium fortunei, longan flesh, gentiana scabra, alpinia officinarum, ganoderma lucidum, forsythia suspense, glechoma longituba, lotus seed, phragmites communis root.

[0185] Furthermore, the extracts of the above-exemplified non-tobacco plants, so-called extracts, can also be used. As the form of the extract, liquid, syrupy, powder, granule, solution and the like can be enumerated.

[0186] Hereinafter, the present invention will be specifically described. As Figure 1 shown, the electronic cigarette cartridges made in the following examples are evaluated using an electronic cigarette main body. An outline of the used electronic cigarette main body will be described.

[0187] The heating element (211) has a width of 4.5 mm, a length of 12 mm from the top, and a thickness of 0.4 mm. The inner diameter of the insertion part (210) is 7 mm, and its shape is basically the same as that of the e-cigarette cartridge. The heating element (211) is heated to approximately 370°C by power supplied by a battery (not shown) disposed in the e-cigarette body (200). Furthermore, through the built-in control system, one e-cigarette cartridge can be inhaled 14 times. In addition, when the e-cigarette cartridge of this embodiment is inserted into the e-cigarette body, the portion of the e-cigarette cartridge protruding from the downstream side of the e-cigarette body to the outside is approximately 20 mm.

[0188] (Example 1) Cellulose fibers, binders, black tea, aerosol forming agents, and flavor additives are combined to form a slurry. This slurry is then cast onto a metal plate and dried to create a sheet with a thickness of 0.2 mm. The resulting sheet is then cut into pieces with a length of 12 mm and a width of 120 mm, weighing 0.29 g. Figure 9 As shown, using a paper cutter, starting at position (A) two-thirds of the way along the longitudinal direction (Y direction), make cuts (F) at 4mm intervals W. The length of each cut (F) is 8mm, which is equivalent to two-thirds of the longitudinal length. Repeat this operation in the transverse direction (X direction) to form cuts (F).

[0189] As an electronic cigarette cartridge, it has the following characteristics: Figure 2 as well as Figure 7 The structure shown is as follows. An aerosol forming substrate (110) is formed by filling a cylindrical packaging component (151) with a diameter of 7 mm and a height of 12 mm with filler. A hollow tube with a central through-hole is used as a support element (300). This hollow tube is made of cellulose acetate and has a bottom diameter of 7 mm, with the through-hole forming the hollow portion having a diameter of 3 mm. The support element (300) has a through-hole that resists insertion force when the heating element (211) is inserted, supports the aerosol forming substrate (110), and guides the aerosol from the upstream side (10) to the downstream side (20), allowing the generated aerosol to reach the user's mouth.

[0190] The aggregated polymer sheet is wound into a cylindrical shape with a bottom diameter of 7 mm and a height of 18 mm to be used as a transfer member (130). The transfer member (130) has the function of guiding the generated aerosol from the upstream side (10) to the downstream side (20) to reach the user's mouth, and also has the function of properly maintaining the temperature of the aerosol.

[0191] The filter is wound into a cylindrical shape with a bottom diameter of 7mm and a height of 7mm to be used as a mouthpiece (140). For example... Figure 2 as well as Figure 7 As shown, they are formed by winding packaging sheets (150) to form electronic cigarette cartridges.

[0192] The filler (111) with the slit (F) as described above is wound into a roll and filled into the packaging member (151) as filler to obtain an aerosol forming substrate (110). In the aerosol forming substrate (110) obtained in this way, the gaps between the sheets serve as air channels, and the air channels are formed in the longitudinal direction of the e-cigarette cartridge. Furthermore, since an adhesive is applied to the side of the aforementioned filler, the filler adheres to the packaging member (151) when it is filled into the packaging member (151). In addition, the filling is performed in such a way that the side forming the slit (F) becomes the upstream side (10). The e-cigarette cartridge is obtained as described above.

[0193] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the end shape of the sheet appearing at one end is deformed into a generally rectangular shape, with a long side of 4 mm and a short side of 0.2 mm, and is slightly curved. However, this embodiment is characterized by, as Figure 10 As shown, the areas of the end shapes of the aforementioned sheet are approximately equal from the center (B) to the periphery (C) of the aerosol forming substrate.

[0194] With this feature, when the heating element (211) is inserted, installation can be performed with constant resistance regardless of the insertion direction. In addition, for the aerosol generated by heating, a uniform air channel is formed, thus achieving stable suction comfort.

[0195] In addition, the filler or part of the filler will not fall off after use.

[0196] (Example 2) A filler (111) with the same slits as in Example 1 was prepared. The sheet with the slits (F) was folded and filled into the packaging member (151) to form the filler. In the filler formed in this way, the gaps between the sheets serve as air channels, and the air channels are formed in the longitudinal direction of the e-cigarette cartridge. Since an adhesive is applied to the side of the filler, the filler adheres to the packaging member (151) when it is filled into the packaging member (151). Furthermore, the filling is performed in such a way that the side forming the slits becomes the upstream side. As described above, the e-cigarette cartridge was obtained in the same manner as in Example 1.

[0197] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the end shape of the sheet appearing at one end is deformed into a generally rectangular shape, with a long side of 4 mm and a short side of 0.2 mm. However, this embodiment is characterized by, as Figure 10As shown, the areas of the end shapes of the aforementioned sheet are approximately equal from the center (B) to the periphery (C) of the aerosol forming substrate.

[0198] With this feature, when the heating element (211) is inserted, installation can be performed with constant resistance regardless of the insertion direction. In addition, for the aerosol generated by heating, a uniform air channel is formed, thus achieving stable suction comfort.

[0199] In addition, the filler or part of the filler will not fall off after use.

[0200] (Example 3) Cellulose fibers, adhesives, black tea, aerosol forming agents, and flavor additives are made into a slurry. The slurry is cast onto a metal plate and dried to form a sheet with a thickness of 0.2 mm. The cut sheet is rolled into a roll and filled into a packaging component (151) to form a filler. In the filler formed in this way, the gaps between the sheets serve as air channels, and the air channels are formed in the longitudinal direction of the e-cigarette cartridge. Since the adhesive is applied to the sides of the filler, the filler adheres to the packaging component (151) when it is filled into the packaging component (151).

[0201] Then, use a paper cutter to make cuts (D1, D2, D3) from one end along the diameter. For example... Figure 11 As shown, cuts (D1, D2, D3) are formed in a manner that ensures the cuts are evenly distributed in the diametrical direction. The cut depth is approximately 8 mm. As described above, an electronic cigarette cartridge was obtained in the same manner as in Example 1.

[0202] Furthermore, this embodiment is characterized in that, viewed from each end, the area of ​​the sheet end shape, observed from the center (B) of the aerosol forming substrate toward the peripheral portion (C), gradually increases. In such a structure, when the heating element (211) is inserted, it exhibits the characteristic effect of low resistance at the center.

[0203] In addition, the filler or part of the filler will not fall off after use.

[0204] (Example 4) Cellulose fibers, adhesives, black tea, aerosol forming agents, and flavor additives are made into a slurry. The slurry is cast onto a metal plate and dried to form a sheet with a thickness of 0.2 mm. The obtained sheet is cut into shapes with a longitudinal dimension of 12 mm and a transverse dimension of 120 mm. The cut sheets are folded and filled into the packaging component (151) to form a filler. In the filler formed in this way, the gaps between the sheets serve as air channels, and the air channels are formed in the longitudinal direction of the e-cigarette cartridge. Since the adhesive is applied to the sides of the filler, the filler adheres to the packaging component (151) when it is filled into the packaging component (151).

[0205] Then, use a paper cutter to make a cut from one side. For example... Figure 12 As shown, three cuts (G1, G2, G3) are formed in such a way that the cuts are approximately right angled to the edges of the folded filler (111).

[0206] The cut depth is approximately 8 mm. As described above, the electronic cigarette cartridge was obtained in the same manner as in Example 1.

[0207] In addition, the filler or part of the filler will not fall off after use.

[0208] (Example 5) Cellulose fibers, adhesives, black tea, aerosol forming agents, and flavor additives are made into a slurry. The slurry is cast onto a metal plate and dried to form a sheet with a thickness of 0.2 mm. The sheet obtained above is cut into a shape with a longitudinal dimension of 12 mm and a transverse dimension of 120 mm, and then rolled into a waveform substantially parallel to the short side direction (Y direction). One cycle of the waveform is 4 mm. A roll is formed by winding the rolled sheet as described above, and it is filled into the packaging component (151) to form a filler. In the filler formed in this way, the gaps between the sheets serve as air channels, and the air channels are formed in the longitudinal direction of the e-cigarette cartridge. Since the adhesive is applied to the sides of the filler, the filler adheres to the packaging component (151) when it is filled into the packaging component (151).

[0209] Use a paper cutter to make cuts (D1, D2, D3) from one end along the diameter. For example... Figure 11 As shown, cuts (D1, D2, D3) are formed in a manner that ensures the cuts are evenly distributed in the diametrical direction. The cut depth is approximately 8 mm. As described above, an electronic cigarette cartridge was obtained in the same manner as in Example 1.

[0210] Furthermore, this embodiment is characterized in that, when viewed from each end, the area of ​​the end shape of the sheet, observed from the center (B) of the aerosol forming substrate toward the peripheral portion (C), gradually increases. This structure provides the unique effect that the heating element (211) can be inserted into the center with minimal resistance.

[0211] In addition, the filler or part of the filler will not fall off after use. Furthermore, when the heating element (211) is inserted, it can be installed with constant resistance regardless of the insertion direction, which is believed to be due to the curling, thus enabling stable suction comfort.

[0212] (Example 6) Cellulose fibers, adhesives, black tea, aerosol forming agents, and flavor additives are made into a slurry. The slurry is cast onto a metal plate and dried to form a sheet with a thickness of 0.2 mm. The sheet obtained above is cut into a shape with a longitudinal dimension of 12 mm and a transverse dimension of 120 mm, and then rolled into a waveform substantially parallel to the short side direction (Y direction). One cycle of the waveform is 4 mm. The rolled sheet is folded and filled into a packaging component (151) to form a filler. In the filler formed in this way, the gaps between the sheets serve as air channels, and the air channels are formed in the longitudinal direction of the e-cigarette cartridge. Since the adhesive is applied to the sides of the filler, the filler adheres to the packaging component (151) when it is filled into the packaging component (151).

[0213] Then, use a paper cutter to make a cut from one side. For example... Figure 12 As shown, three cuts (G1, G2, G3) are formed such that the cuts are approximately right angled to the folded filler (111). The cut depth is approximately 8 mm. As described above, an electronic cigarette cartridge was obtained in the same manner as in Example 1.

[0214] In addition, the filler or part of the filler will not fall off after use. Furthermore, when the heating element (211) is inserted, it can be installed with constant resistance regardless of the insertion direction, which is believed to be due to the curling, thus enabling stable suction comfort.

[0215] (Example 7) In this embodiment, a structure of a sheet with a slit at one end is described, which is particularly suitable for continuous manufacturing. A slurry is prepared from cellulose fibers, an adhesive, black tea, an aerosol forming agent, and flavor additives. The slurry is cast onto a metal plate, and the cast slurry is dried to form a sheet. The obtained sheet is then formed into a continuous sheet with a width of 120 mm and wound into a roll. The continuous sheet is fed from the aforementioned roller to a rotary cutter, where it is partially cut to form a slit.

[0216] Figure 13 The method for forming slits in this embodiment is illustrated. Slits are formed at intervals W along the X direction on a sheet with a length of 120 mm in the X direction. Non-slit portions H1 and slit portions H2 are formed periodically in the Y direction with a period of length H. Furthermore, adjacent slits are formed at an offset of H3. Figure 14 An example is shown of cutting a sheet formed in this way into a length of H.

[0217] exist Figure 14 In this embodiment, the slit portion and the non-slit portion are spaced apart by a width W in the X direction, and the entire sheet is formed in a state where they are connected by the non-slit portion. Furthermore, in the Y direction, there are two sides extending in the X direction, and slits are present on both sides. That is, when the slit sheet of this embodiment is used to fill the packaging component (151) to form an aerosol forming substrate, it means that a filler with slits on both the upper and lower surfaces is filled. This method for forming an aerosol forming substrate is suitable for continuous production. This is because either direction can be used to form the aerosol forming substrate, which is suitable for the automated assembly of electronic cigarette cartridges.

[0218] In this embodiment, although the specific example described above has been used, the method is not limited to this. In continuous production, in order to form the entire sheet in a state where it is connected by non-cut portions, the length H2 of the cut must be less than the width of the sheet in the Y direction. This can be achieved by configuring the aforementioned cuts to have cuts on both one end and the other end.

[0219] That is, a sheet-like member with cutouts is formed at predetermined intervals in a direction intersecting the axis in the longitudinal direction of the electronic cigarette cartridge. The sheet-like member is connected by non-cutout portions, and when the sheet-like member is used to form an aerosol forming substrate, it can be made to have cutouts on one end and the other end of the aerosol forming substrate.

[0220] Here, the interval W is 4mm, the length H is 12mm, H1 is 4mm, H2 is 8mm, and H3 is 2mm. In this embodiment, the length H is set to 12mm so that the aerosol forming substrate and the filler have the same length in the longitudinal direction of the electronic cigarette cartridge.

[0221] As described above, an electronic cigarette cartridge was obtained in the same manner as in Example 1.

[0222] In addition, the filler or part of the filler will not fall off after use. Furthermore, when the heating element (211) is inserted, it can be installed with constant resistance regardless of the insertion direction, which is believed to be due to the curling, thus enabling stable suction comfort.

[0223] A preferred manufacturing method for Example 7 will be described. As an example, Figure 15 A schematic diagram of a manufacturing apparatus (600) for producing an aerosol forming substrate is shown. A sheet is supplied from a sheet supply device (610) having a rotatable spool, and predetermined slits are formed on the supplied sheet. The predetermined slits are formed using a slit forming device (620), such as a rotary cutter. Subsequently, the sheet with the desired slits is guided to an gathering device (630), such as a sheet gathering funnel, and the sheet is gathered by winding, folding, compressing, or shrinking. In the gathered sheet formed in the above manner, the gaps between the sheets serve as air channels, and preferably, these air channels are formed to extend along the longitudinal direction of the e-cigarette cartridge. On the other hand, in order to fill the sheet into a packaging component (151), packaging paper is supplied from a packaging component supply device (670) to package the sheet gathered by the gathering device (630), wherein the packaging component supply device (670) has rollers for the packaging paper as packaging components. This packaging process is performed by a packaging device (640). In the packaging apparatus (640), the aforementioned aggregated sheets are wrapped with the aforementioned packaging paper, and an adhesive for thermal bonding is applied to the overlapping portions at the ends of the packaging paper. The sheets are then bonded by heating and subsequently cooled, thereby continuously forming aggregated sheets wrapped with the aforementioned packaging paper. Individual aerosol forming substrates (110) are then formed by the cutting device (650). Furthermore, although not shown, a three-roll mill can be used upstream of the sheet feeding device (610) to form the non-tobacco plant composition into sheets.

[0224] Furthermore, the aggregated sheet packaged by the packaging components is guided from the aggregation device (630) to the cutting device (650) via a conveyor belt drive device (660), wherein the aggregated sheet is formed by the aggregation device (630) or the packaging device (640). The conveyor belt used as the conveyor belt drive device (660) is preferably a woven conveyor belt.

[0225] Cutouts are formed on one end and the other end of the aerosol forming substrate (110) formed as described above, and the sheet is formed as a whole in a state where it is connected by non-cutout portions.

[0226] As described above, the present invention has the following effects.

[0227] The heating element (211) can be stably inserted into the e-cigarette cartridge. This makes the vaping comfort stable and prevents damage to the e-cigarette cartridge and the heating element (211).

[0228] In addition, it can prevent the filler in the aerosol-forming substrate from falling off after the e-cigarette cartridge is used.

[0229] The embodiments applicable to this invention have been described above; however, this invention is not limited to these embodiments. Various modifications can be made to the structure described in the claims, and these modifications are also included within the scope of this invention. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes, improvements, and combinations are possible.

[0230] Industrial utilization potential The electronic cigarette cartridge (100) described in this embodiment is suitable for use as a cartridge for electronic cigarettes with a heating element.

[0231] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures 10. Upstream side (one end side) 20 Downstream side (the other end) 100 e-cigarette cartridges 110 Aerosol Forming Substrate 111 Filler 130 Transfer Components 140 cigarette holder 150 Packaging Sheets 151 Packaging Components 170 lid 180 Separator 200 Electronic cigarette main body 210 Insertion section 211 Heating element 300 support elements 600 Aerosol Forming Substrate Manufacturing Apparatus 610 Sheet Feeding Device 620 Cut Forming Device 630 Aggregator 640 Packaging Unit 650 Cutting Device 660 Conveyor Belt Drive Unit 670 Packaging Component Supply Device 160 Side 112 Approximate central axis F cut W incision interval D1-D3 incisions G1-G3 incision B. The center of the aerosol forming substrate C. Periphery of the aerosol forming substrate

Claims

1. An electronic cigarette cartridge, which is an electronic cigarette cartridge with a cylindrical appearance, characterized in that, It is formed by winding a packaging sheet around an aerosol forming substrate and sequentially adjacent support elements, conveying components, and a mouthpiece on the downstream side of the aerosol forming substrate. The aerosol forming substrate includes a cylindrical packaging component and an electronic cigarette filler filling the interior of the packaging component. The electronic cigarette filler is configured as a sheet-like component. The aerosol forming substrate, the supporting element, the conveying member, and the mouthpiece are arranged adjacent to each other in a direction that forms the longitudinal direction of the electronic cigarette cartridge. When this longitudinal direction is taken as the first direction of the electronic cigarette cartridge, a cut is formed on the sheet-like component along this first direction. The cut is formed to a depth that does not penetrate the sheet-like component on one surface. Folded along the first direction to a width smaller than the inner diameter of the packaging member, and filled into the packaging member.

2. The electronic cigarette cartridge as described in claim 1, wherein, A cover is disposed on the upstream side of the aerosol forming substrate.

3. The electronic cigarette cartridge as described in claim 1 or 2, wherein, The aerosol forming substrate or the side of the support element is fixed to the packaging sheet by an adhesive.

4. The electronic cigarette cartridge as described in claim 1 or 2, wherein, The electronic cigarette cartridge is installed on an electronic cigarette body that does not have a heating element.

5. A method for manufacturing an aerosol-forming substrate, which is the method for manufacturing the aerosol-forming substrate of the electronic cigarette cartridge as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The method for manufacturing the aerosol forming substrate includes: The process of shaping a sheet containing an aerosol forming agent into a desired form. The process of forming a sheet-like component by making cuts on the sheet at a depth that does not penetrate the sheet, and The process of folding the sheet-like component to a width smaller than the inner diameter of the packaging component, such that the direction of the fold line is along the longitudinal direction of the e-cigarette cartridge and the extension direction of the cut is substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction of the e-cigarette cartridge, is then filled into the packaging component.

6. The method for manufacturing an aerosol-forming substrate as described in claim 5, wherein, The thickness of the sheet is 0.1 mm or more and 0.5 mm or less.

7. The method for manufacturing an aerosol-forming substrate as described in claim 5, wherein, The sheets are joined together by uncut sections.

8. The method for manufacturing an aerosol-forming substrate as described in claim 5, wherein, The length of the cut is more than 20% and less than 90% of the total length of the sheet in the Y direction, and the Y direction is parallel to the longitudinal direction of the electronic cigarette cartridge.

9. A method for manufacturing an aerosol-forming substrate, which is the method for manufacturing the aerosol-forming substrate of an electronic cigarette cartridge as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The method for manufacturing the aerosol forming substrate includes: A process of forming cuts on a sheet containing an aerosol forming agent to a depth that does not penetrate the sheet. The process of processing the sheet into a desired shape to form a sheet-like component, and The process of folding the sheet-like component to a width smaller than the inner diameter of the packaging component, such that the direction of the fold line is along the longitudinal direction of the e-cigarette cartridge and the extension direction of the cut is substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction of the e-cigarette cartridge, is then filled into the packaging component.

10. The method for manufacturing an aerosol-forming substrate as described in claim 9, wherein, The thickness of the sheet is 0.1 mm or more and 0.5 mm or less.

11. The method for manufacturing an aerosol-forming substrate as described in claim 9, wherein, The sheets are joined together by uncut sections.

12. The method for manufacturing an aerosol-forming substrate as described in claim 9, wherein, The length of the cut is more than 20% and less than 90% of the total length of the sheet in the Y direction, and the Y direction is parallel to the longitudinal direction of the electronic cigarette cartridge.

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