Manufacturing method and manufacturing equipment of aerosol generating substrate

Abstract

The invention relates to the technical field of aerosol generating substrates, and provides a manufacturing method and manufacturing equipment of an aerosol generating substrate, and the manufacturing method comprises the following steps: extruding a mixed material at a low temperature to form an extruded substrate; and carrying out hot air drying on the extruded matrix. According to the present invention, the extrusion matrix subjected to low-temperature extrusion does not easily have the problems of loosening and cracking, the yield can be effectively improved, and in addition, the low-temperature extrusion can counteract the heat generated during the extrusion process of the mixed material so as to reduce the loss of the volatile aroma substance during the extrusion process. And hot air drying can dry extruded substrates in batches, and the drying speed is high.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application relates to the technical field of aerosol generating substrates, and in particular to a method and equipment for manufacturing an aerosol generating substrate. Background Art

[0002] The aerosol-generating substrate can form an aerosol by ignition or by heating without burning. In the aerosol-generating substrate that is heated without burning, the aerosol-generating substrate is heated by an external heat source so that the aerosol-generating substrate is just heated to a degree sufficient to emit an aerosol, and the aerosol-generating substrate does not burn. The aerosol-generating substrate is loaded with a smoke-generating agent, and when used, the smoke-generating agent is released by heating the aerosol-generating substrate to form an aerosol.

[0003] The core of the existing manufacturing system is mainly cast film, coating, and roller pressing. It needs to use hot air drying to control the moisture and shape of the matrix, and needs to use gathering or filling equipment to prepare a cylindrical aerosol-generating matrix. The related methods and manufacturing systems have the problems of long processes, many intermediate products from raw materials to finished products, large investment in the manufacturing system, and easy loss of effective substances during the manufacturing process. Summary of the invention

[0004] In view of this, the embodiments of the present application hope to provide a method and a device for manufacturing an aerosol generating substrate that can improve the yield rate.

[0005] To achieve the above-mentioned purpose, the present application provides a method for manufacturing an aerosol generating substrate, comprising:

[0006] The mixed material is extruded at low temperature to form an extruded matrix;

[0007] The extruded matrix is ​​subjected to hot air drying.

[0008] In some embodiments, the extrusion temperature of the low-temperature extrusion is greater than or equal to -50°C and less than 10°C.

[0009] In some embodiments, the extrusion temperature of the low-temperature extrusion is between -35°C and 5°C.

[0010] In some embodiments, the extrusion pressure of the low temperature extrusion is between 0.5 bar and 300 bar.

[0011] In some embodiments, the hot air drying temperature is between 50°C and 200°C.

[0012] In some embodiments, the hot air drying temperature is between 75°C and 125°C.

[0013] In some embodiments, the moisture content of the extruded matrix after drying is 3% to 20%.

[0014] In some embodiments, the extruded matrix has an air channel running through at least one end thereof in the longitudinal direction, and during the hot air drying process, the flow direction of the hot air is parallel to the longitudinal direction of the extruded matrix.

[0015] In some embodiments, after the mixed material is extruded at low temperature to form an extruded matrix, the manufacturing method includes:

[0016] The extruded matrix is ​​cut into pieces.

[0017] In some embodiments, before the extruded matrix is ​​subjected to hot air drying, the manufacturing method comprises:

[0018] The extruded matrix hardens by cooling.

[0019] In some embodiments, the hardness of the extruded matrix after hardening is between 1 HB and 200 HB.

[0020] In some embodiments, the extruded matrix is ​​extruded in a horizontal direction; or,

[0021] The extruded matrix is ​​extruded in a vertical direction; or,

[0022] The extruded matrix is ​​extruded in an oblique direction.

[0023] In some embodiments, the mixture includes, by weight: 30 to 90 parts of plant raw materials, 1 to 15 parts of auxiliary raw materials, 5 to 30 parts of smoke-generating agent raw materials, 1 to 10 parts of adhesive raw materials, and 1 to 15 parts of flavor raw materials.

[0024] The present application also provides a manufacturing device for an aerosol generating substrate, the manufacturing device comprising:

[0025] An extrusion device, the extrusion device is used to extrude the mixed material at low temperature to form an extruded matrix;

[0026] A drying device is used for hot air drying the extruded matrix.

[0027] In some embodiments, the drying device comprises:

[0028] A box body having a drying chamber;

[0029] A fan, used to drive the air flow in the drying chamber;

[0030] A heating element is disposed in the drying chamber, and is used to heat the airflow in the drying chamber.

[0031] In some embodiments, the number of the heating elements is at least two, and the at least two heating elements are spaced apart in the up-and-down direction to form a space for conveying the extruded matrix.

[0032] In some embodiments, the extruded matrix has an air passage running through at least one end thereof in the longitudinal direction, and the drying device includes a guide channel for guiding hot air, wherein the air outlet of the guide channel is located on one side of the extruded matrix in the longitudinal direction.

[0033] In some embodiments, the drying device comprises a conveyor belt for conveying the extruded matrix, wherein a plurality of grooves are formed on a surface of the conveyor belt facing the extruded matrix, each of the grooves is used to place a strip of the extruded matrix, and at least a portion of the extruded matrix is ​​located in the groove.

[0034] In some embodiments, the manufacturing apparatus comprises a microwave device at least partially located in the drying chamber, the microwave device drying the extruded matrix by emitting microwave radiation; and / or,

[0035] The manufacturing apparatus includes an ultrasonic device at least partially located within the drying chamber, the ultrasonic device drying the extruded matrix by emitting ultrasonic radiation.

[0036] The manufacturing method provided in the embodiment of the present application performs low-temperature extrusion of the mixed material. The viscosity of the mixed material is large, and the extruded matrix is ​​easier to adhere tightly, and is not prone to loosening or cracking, which can effectively improve the yield rate; in addition, low-temperature extrusion can offset the heat generated during the extrusion of the mixed material, thereby reducing the loss of volatile aroma substances during the extrusion process. Hot air drying can batch dry the extruded matrix with a fast drying speed. The water content of the extruded matrix is ​​reduced by hot air drying to facilitate the storage and use of the aerosol generating matrix. The aerosol generating matrix obtained by low-temperature extrusion and hot air drying is an integrated molding structure. In this way, the aerosol generating matrix is ​​an integrated medium during use, such as after being heated and sucked or after stopping being heated, and is not prone to disintegration and falling. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0037] Figure 1 is a flowchart of a manufacturing method in one embodiment of the present application;

[0038] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a manufacturing system in an embodiment of the present application, wherein the extrudate is extruded vertically;

[0039] Figure 3 for Figure 2 A schematic cross-sectional view of the structure shown;

[0040] Figure 4 is a schematic structural diagram of a manufacturing system in another embodiment of the present application, wherein the extrudate is extruded in a horizontal direction;

[0041] Figure 5 This is a schematic structural diagram of a guide channel and a conveyor belt in an embodiment of the present application;

[0042] Figure 6 for Figure 5 The enlarged schematic diagram at A in the middle;

[0043] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the die in one embodiment of the present application;

[0044] Figure 8 for Figure 7 The schematic diagram of the structure of the die and the extruded matrix shown;

[0045] Fig. 9 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the mouth mold and the bottom mold in one embodiment of the present application;

[0046] Fig.10 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the adapter, the mouth mold and the bottom mold in one embodiment of the present application;

[0047] Fig.11 It is a structural schematic diagram of a hardening device in one embodiment of the present application;

[0048] Fig.12 It is a schematic structural diagram of a hardening device in another embodiment of the present application.

[0049] Description of Reference Numerals

[0050] Extrusion matrix 1000; air channel 1000a; extrusion device 1; extrusion barrel 11; extrusion chamber 11a; feed port 11b; solid material feed port 11b1; liquid material feed port 11b2; discharge port 11c; extrusion screw 12; die 13; feeding screw 14; bottom die 15; adapter 16; drying device 2; box 21; drying chamber 21a; inlet 21b; delivery port 21c; fan 22; heating element 23; guide channel 24; air outlet 24a; air inlet 24b; conveyor belt 25; groove 25a; microwave device 3; ultrasonic device 4; hardening device 5; shell 51; outer shell 511; inner shell 512; inlet 51a; cold chamber 51b; outlet 51c; injection port 51d; refrigerant channel 51e; conveyor belt 52; guide groove 52a; slitting device 6; slitting tool 61; packaging device 7. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0051] It should be noted that, in the absence of conflict, the embodiments and technical features in the embodiments of the present application can be combined with each other, and the detailed description in the specific implementation method should be understood as an explanation of the purpose of the present application and should not be regarded as an improper limitation on the present application.

[0052] In this application, the temperature unit "°C" is Celsius. The pressure unit "bar" is bar. The unit "μm" is micrometer. The viscosity unit "pa.s" is Pascal second. The unit "pa" is Pascal.

[0053] The aerosol generating substrate is used to generate aerosol by heating. Exemplarily, the aerosol generating substrate can be used to generate aerosol by heating and burning. The aerosol generating substrate can also be used to generate aerosol by heating without burning. That is, the aerosol generating substrate is heated to a temperature below the ignition point to generate aerosol. The aerosol generating substrate does not burn during the process of generating aerosol.

[0054] The aerosol generating substrate provided in the embodiment of the present application is used for an aerosol generating product. The aerosol generating product includes an aerosol generating substrate and a functional segment. The functional segment is arranged at one end of the aerosol generating substrate in the longitudinal direction, and the functional segment includes a filter segment for filtering aerosol. The filter segment is used to filter the aerosol generated by the aerosol generating substrate.

[0055] The aerosol generating article is used for users to inhale the aerosol generated by the aerosol generating matrix. For example, the user can inhale the filtered aerosol by holding the filter section in the mouth. The aerosol generated by the aerosol generating matrix is ​​transported to the filter section under the action of the suction negative pressure.

[0056] The aerosol generating article is used in conjunction with an aerosol generating device having a heating component. Specifically, the heating component heats and atomizes the aerosol generating substrate to generate an aerosol.

[0057] There are many heating methods for the heating component. Exemplary heating methods include center heating, circumferential heating and / or bottom heating. The center heating method refers to the heating component being inserted into the interior of the aerosol generating product to bake and heat the aerosol generating product from the inside to the outside. The circumferential heating method refers to the heating component being arranged at the periphery of the aerosol generating product to bake and heat the aerosol generating product from the outside to the inside. The bottom heating method refers to the heating component being located at the bottom of the aerosol generating product, and the heating component is used to heat the air first, and then the hot air bakes and heats the aerosol generating product from the bottom to the top.

[0058] It should be noted that the bottom of the aerosol generating article is the end thereof that is away from the functional section in the longitudinal direction.

[0059] The heating methods of the heating component include but are not limited to resistance heating, electromagnetic heating, infrared heating, microwave heating or laser heating.

[0060] In some embodiments, the functional segment may only be provided with a filtering segment.

[0061] In some other embodiments, the functional section further includes a cooling section, which is located between the filtering section and the aerosol generating matrix, and is used to cool the aerosol before the filtering section filters the aerosol. The cooling section can improve the "hot mouth" phenomenon when the user inhales the aerosol.

[0062] The cooling materials used in the cooling section include but are not limited to one or more combinations of PE (polyethylene), PLA (Polylactic Acid), PBAT (Polybutylene Adipate Terephthalate), PP (Polypropylene), acetate fiber, acrylic fiber and the like.

[0063] The filter materials used in the filter section include but are not limited to one or more combinations of PE (polyethylene), PLA (Polylactic Acid), PBAT (Polybutylene Adipate Terephthalate), PP (Polypropylene), acetate fiber, acrylic fiber and the like.

[0064] The materials of the cooling section and the filtering section can be the same or different.

[0065] See also Figure 1 The present application embodiment provides a method for manufacturing an aerosol generating substrate, the manufacturing method comprising:

[0066] S100: the mixed material is extruded at low temperature to form an extruded matrix;

[0067] The mixed material is a component of the aerosol generating matrix. Low temperature extrusion is used to shape the mixed material to obtain an extruded matrix 1000, which has the same cross-sectional shape as the aerosol generating matrix. In other words, the cross-sectional shape of the extruded matrix 1000 is the same as the cross-sectional shape of the aerosol generating matrix. The mixed material is structured and shaped using an extrusion process without changing the chemical properties of the mixed material.

[0068] It should be noted that the longitudinal direction refers to the extension direction of the aerosol generating matrix. For example, if the aerosol generating matrix is ​​formed by extrusion, the longitudinal direction is the extension direction of the extruded matrix 1000. The cross-sectional shape refers to the shape of the extruded matrix 1000 with a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction as the cross section.

[0069] See also Figures 2 to 4Extrusion molding refers to a processing method in which the mixed material is pushed forward by the screw 12 through the action between the barrel of the extrusion device 1 and the extrusion screw 12, and is formed into an extruded matrix 1000 with various cross-sectional shapes through the die 13 of the discharge port 11c.

[0070] Low temperature extrusion means that the extrusion temperature is lower than 10°C.

[0071] It should be noted that in the field of extrusion, extrusion temperatures above 90°C are considered high-temperature extrusion. Extrusion temperatures between 10°C and 90°C (including 10°C and 90°C) are considered room-temperature extrusion. The extrusion temperature is the temperature inside the extrusion cavity of the extrusion device.

[0072] During the extrusion molding process, the temperature will affect the retention rate of volatile aroma substances of the extruded matrix 1000, the viscosity of the mixed material and other parameters. Low-temperature extrusion molding can offset the heat generated by the pressure and mutual friction of the mixed material during the extrusion process, thereby reducing the loss of volatile aroma substances during the extrusion molding process. The corresponding relationship between temperature and volatile aroma retention rate is shown in Table 1.

[0073] According to Table 1, the higher the temperature, the lower the retention rate of volatile aroma substances in the mixture; the lower the temperature, the higher the retention rate of volatile aroma substances in the mixture. Among them, when the extrusion temperature is -10°C, the retention rate of volatile aroma substances in the mixture is as high as 95%, when the extrusion temperature is 10°C, the retention rate of volatile aroma substances in the mixture is 85%, and when the extrusion temperature is 60°C, the retention rate of volatile aroma substances in the mixture is only 50%. It can be seen that when the extrusion temperature of low-temperature extrusion molding is -10°C to 10°C, the retention rate of volatile aroma substances in the material is relatively high, which can meet the needs and ensure the quality of the extruded matrix 1000.

[0074] Table 1

[0075] Serial number Temperature(℃) Retention Rate 1 -10 95％ 2 -5 93％ 3 0 90％ 4 10 85％ 5 15 80％ 6 25 78％ 7 40 67％ 8 50 58％ 9 60 50％

[0076] Temperature has a great influence on the viscosity of the mixed material, and the viscosity of the mixed material also has an influence on the extrusion pressure. The corresponding relationship between temperature and rheological properties of slurry is shown in Table 2.

[0077] Table 2 Corresponding relationship between temperature and rheological properties of slurry

[0078] Serial number Mixed material temperature (℃) Viscosity of mixed material (Pa.s) 1 -10 3200 2 -5 2825 3 0 2450 4 10 2300 5 15 1950 6 25 1400 7 30 1200

[0079] According to Table 2, as the temperature increases, the viscosity of the mixed material decreases. When the extrusion temperature is higher than or equal to 10° C., the bonding force between the mixed materials is small, and the extruded matrix 1000 is prone to loosening or cracking, resulting in a decrease in the yield rate.

[0080] When the extrusion temperature is lower than 10° C., the viscoelasticity of the mixed slurry increases, and the extruded matrix 1000 is more likely to be tightly bonded and less likely to become loose or cracked.

[0081] Exemplarily, the extrusion temperature of low temperature extrusion is not less than -50°C (i.e., greater than or equal to -50°C) and less than 10°C. For example, the extrusion temperature of low temperature extrusion is -50°C, -30°C, -20°C, -10°C, -9°C, -8°C, -7°C, -6°C, -5°C, 0°C, 0.5°C, 1°C, 3°C, 5°C, 8°C, 9°C or 9.5°C, etc.

[0082] More preferably, the extrusion temperature of the low-temperature extrusion may be -35°C to 5°C (including -35°C and 5°C).

[0083] When the extrusion temperature is -35°C to 5°C, the extrusion pressure can be at an equilibrium point, and the extruded extruded matrix 1000 has a uniform shape and a stable structure.

[0084] In one embodiment, the extrusion pressure of low temperature extrusion is between 0.5 bar and 300 bar. Exemplarily, the extrusion pressure of low temperature extrusion is 0.5 bar, 10 bar, 30 bar, 50 bar, 60 bar, 65 bar, 70 bar, 80 bar, 85 bar, 90 bar, 95 bar, 100 bar, 105 bar, 150 bar, 200 bar or 300 bar, etc.

[0085] The extrusion pressure described in the embodiments of the present application refers to the extrusion pressure of the extrusion die (eg, die) located at the discharge port of the extrusion device.

[0086] The extrusion pressure will affect the molding shape, surface smoothness, yield rate, and production rate of the aerosol generating matrix. During the low-temperature extrusion process, when the extrusion pressure is lower than 0.5 bar, the molding rate of the aerosol generating matrix is ​​low, and the product defect rate increases, which in turn leads to a slow production rate and an increase in production costs. When the extrusion pressure is higher than 300 bar, the transmission structure load of the extrusion device 1 is high (the torque required to be provided is high), which leads to a reduction in the service life of the extrusion device 1. Therefore, controlling the extrusion pressure within the range of 0.5 bar to 300 bar can not only improve the molding rate of the aerosol generating matrix, but also extend the service life of the extrusion device 1.

[0087] More preferably, the extrusion pressure of low-temperature extrusion is 30 bar to 150 bar (including 30 bar and 150 bar).

[0088] S200: hot air drying the extruded matrix.

[0089] If the aerosol-generating matrix contains excessive liquid such as water, the aerosol-generating matrix is ​​not easy to store and transport, and is easily deformed by force, and is also easy to "burn the mouth" when the aerosol-generating matrix is ​​heated. Therefore, the extruded matrix 1000 contains a lot of solvents such as water and / or other volatile lubricants, and the solvents and / or lubricants need to be removed to obtain a dry aerosol-generating matrix for use or storage.

[0090] Hot air drying refers to using a hot air flow to dry the extruded matrix 1000. The hot air flow can contact the extruded matrix 1000 to transfer heat to the extruded matrix 1000, so that the solvent and / or lubricant in the extruded matrix 1000 evaporates or sublimates, thereby reducing the content of the solvent and / or the content of the lubricant in the extruded matrix 1000, and achieving the purpose of drying the extruded matrix 1000.

[0091] The manufacturing method provided in the embodiment of the present application performs low-temperature extrusion of the mixed material. The viscosity of the mixed material is large, and the extruded matrix 1000 is easier to adhere tightly, and is not prone to loosening or cracking, which effectively improves the yield rate; in addition, low-temperature extrusion can offset the heat generated during the extrusion of the mixed material, thereby reducing the loss of volatile aroma substances during the extrusion process. Hot air drying can batch dry the extruded matrix 1000 with a fast drying speed. The water content of the extruded matrix 1000 is reduced by hot air drying to facilitate the storage and use of the aerosol generating matrix. The aerosol generating matrix obtained by low-temperature extrusion and hot air drying is an integrated molding structure. In this way, during the use of the aerosol generating matrix, for example, after being heated and sucked or stopped being heated, it is an integrated medium, and it is not easy to disintegrate and fall.

[0092] For example, in one embodiment, please refer to Figure 8 , the aerosol generating substrate is formed with an air channel 1000a, and the air channel 1000a runs through at least one end of the aerosol generating substrate in the longitudinal direction. For example, the air channel 1000a runs through one end of the aerosol generating substrate in the longitudinal direction. For another example, the air channel 1000a runs through both ends of the aerosol generating substrate in the longitudinal direction. The airflow can flow longitudinally from one end of the aerosol generating substrate to the other end of the aerosol generating substrate. In this way, the airflow formed by the air carrying the aerosol can flow more smoothly, the airflow flow resistance is smaller, and the suction resistance during the suction process can be significantly reduced, thereby improving the suction experience.

[0093] In one embodiment, the air channel 1000a may be formed inside the aerosol generating substrate or on the outer peripheral surface of the aerosol generating substrate.

[0094] In one embodiment, the air channel 1000a is a linear air channel 1000a extending in a straight line. The linear air channel 1000a is easy to form and can reduce the difficulty of manufacturing. The flow resistance of the airflow in the linear air channel 1000a is relatively small.

[0095] In one embodiment, the airway 1000a is a curved airway 1000a, and at least part of the hole section of the curved airway 1000a is a curved shape with a curvature of not less than . The curved airway 1000a can greatly increase the flow path of the airflow without significantly increasing the length of the aerosol generating substrate, and can extend the contact time between the airflow and the hole wall of the curved airway 1000a, thereby improving the aerosol extraction rate.

[0096] In one embodiment, the curved airway 1000a is in the shape of a spiral line. That is to say, the three-dimensional shape of the curved airway 1000a is in the shape of a spatial spiral line. For example, during the extrusion process, the curved airway 1000a of the extruded matrix 1000 is formed by rotating the die. The line connecting any point of the spiral curved airway 1000a and the starting point has an inclination angle relative to its axis. The spiral curved airway 1000a can greatly extend the flow path of the airflow, precipitate the aerosol from the aerosol generating matrix into the curved airway 1000a, increase the flow speed of the aerosol in the aerosol generating matrix, thereby increasing the impact force of the airflow, allowing the aerosol to be evenly mixed, improving the uniformity of the aerosol, and enhancing the user's suction experience.

[0097] It should be understood that the extruded substrate 1000 is a semi-finished product of the aerosol generating substrate. The extruded substrate 1000 has the same morphology as the aerosol generating substrate. In the case where the aerosol generating substrate has air channels 1000a, the extruded substrate 1000 also has the same air channels 1000a.

[0098] There is no limitation on the cross-sectional shape of the airway 1000a located inside the aerosol generating matrix. For example, the cross-sectional shape may be circular, polygonal (including but not limited to triangle, square, prism, etc.), elliptical, racetrack-shaped or irregular-shaped, etc., wherein irregular-shaped refers to other symmetrical or asymmetrical shapes other than the shapes listed above.

[0099] The cross-sectional shape of the airway 1000a located on the outer peripheral surface of the aerosol generating substrate can be semicircular, semi-elliptical, polygonal or irregular, etc., wherein irregular refers to other symmetrical or asymmetrical shapes other than the shapes listed above.

[0100] The number of airways 1000a is not limited, and the airways 1000a may be one or more than one. More than one means that the number includes two or more than two.

[0101] It should be noted that there are micropores inside the aerosol generating matrix. For example, for the aerosol generating matrix of the particle combination, the gaps between the particles constitute the micropores. However, the airway 1000a described in the present application is different from the micropores. The airway 1000a described in the present application is a hole in the macroscopic sense, and the micropores are holes in the microscopic sense. The cross-sectional area and length of the airway 1000a are much larger than those of the micropores. The airway 1000a is mainly processed by, for example, a die. Therefore, the cross-sectional area and length of the airway 1000a can be changed according to the design requirements, while the size of the micropores is determined by the gaps between the particles. For example, the mixed material is a granular material, and the extrudate formed by extrusion of the mixed material has micropores. The cross-sectional area and length of the micropores are difficult to be significantly changed by processing.

[0102] In one embodiment, the mixed material is extruded at low temperature to form an extruded matrix, comprising:

[0103] The mixed material is extruded at low temperature through an extrusion device to form an extruded matrix.

[0104] In one embodiment, the mixed material is extruded at low temperature through an extrusion device to form an extruded matrix, comprising:

[0105] S101: firstly mixing a plurality of raw materials into the mixed material;

[0106] S102: Adding the mixed material into the extrusion device.

[0107] In this embodiment, multiple raw materials such as plant raw materials, auxiliary raw materials and smoke agent raw materials are pre-mixed to form a mixed material, which is then added to the extrusion device 1 for extrusion molding, that is, a slurry feeding method is adopted. The advantage of the slurry feeding method is that the material has good consistency, which can ensure the uniformity and stability of the product.

[0108] In one embodiment, the mixed material is extruded at low temperature through an extrusion device to form an extruded matrix, comprising:

[0109] S103: Adding a plurality of raw materials into a plurality of feed ports of the extrusion device respectively to form the mixed material in the extrusion device.

[0110] In this embodiment, various raw materials such as plant raw materials, auxiliary raw materials and smoke-generating agent raw materials are added to the extrusion device 1 in modules, and the various raw materials are mixed in the extrusion device 1. That is, a module-based feeding method is adopted.

[0111] For example, see Figures 2 to 4, one of the multiple feed ports 11b is a solid feed port 11b1 for adding solid material, one of the multiple feed ports 11b is a liquid feed port 11b2 for adding liquid material, and the liquid feed port 11b2 is located downstream of the solid feed port 11b1 along the material flow direction. When adding materials, first add the solid material through the solid feed port 11b1, and when the solid material reaches the liquid feed port 11b2, start adding the liquid material. In addition, the feeding amount and speed can also be determined according to the production speed of the equipment and the material formula ratio. The advantage of this modular feeding method is that it can reduce the cost of material pre-treatment, ensure the continuity of the production process, and at the same time improve the product production efficiency.

[0112] For some examples, see Figures 2 to 4 The extrusion device 1 includes a feeding screw 14 rotatably disposed in the feed port 11b. The feeding screw 14 can further homogenize the raw material and can better ensure continuous and stable feeding of the raw material.

[0113] In one embodiment, please refer to Figure 4 , the extruded matrix 1000 is extruded in the horizontal direction. For example, the discharge port 11c is oriented in the horizontal direction, and the die 13 can be arranged in the horizontal direction. Exemplarily, for an extruded matrix 1000 having a curved, such as a spiral airway 1000a, the extruded matrix 1000 is extruded in the horizontal direction, and the extruded matrix 1000 can be directly entered into the next device, such as the hardening device 5, through a rotating die. Since the rotation of the die will cause a certain stress to be generated in the extruded matrix 1000, the horizontal extrusion can reduce the direct release of the stress generated by the extruded matrix 1000 (the generated stress can be eliminated by heating), thereby improving the yield rate of the aerosol-generating matrix having a spiral airway 1000a.

[0114] In one embodiment, please refer to Figure 2 and Figure 3 , the extruded matrix 1000 is extruded in a vertical direction. For example, the discharge port 11c faces downward, and the die 13 can be arranged in a vertical direction. In other words, the extruded matrix 1000 is extruded in the direction of gravity. Exemplarily, for the extruded matrix 1000 having a linear air channel 1000a, the extruded matrix 1000 is extruded in a vertical direction, which can improve the yield rate, reduce the investment cost of the extrusion device 1, and also reduce the floor space of the extrusion device 1.

[0115] In one embodiment, the extruded matrix 1000 is extruded along an inclined direction. The inclined direction refers to the angle between the extrusion direction of the extruded matrix 1000 and the horizontal plane being greater than 0° and less than 90°. Inclined extrusion can not only reduce the extrusion pressure of the mixed material, but also facilitate the spatial design of other devices such as the drying device 2.

[0116] In one embodiment, the mixed material includes, by weight: 30 to 90 parts of plant raw materials, 1 to 15 parts of auxiliary raw materials, 5 to 30 parts of smoke-generating agent raw materials, 1 to 10 parts of adhesive raw materials, and 1 to 15 parts of flavor raw materials. Specifically, the total weight of the plant raw materials, auxiliary raw materials, smoke-generating agent raw materials, adhesive raw materials, and flavor raw materials is 100 parts.

[0117] Plant raw materials are used to generate aerosols when heated. Auxiliary raw materials are used to provide skeleton support for plant raw materials. Smoke-generating agent raw materials are used to generate smoke when heated. Adhesive raw materials are used to bond component raw materials. Flavor raw materials are used to provide characteristic aromas. In this way, plant raw materials and smoke-generating agent raw materials can ensure the amount of aerosol generated, while flavor raw materials can increase the release of aroma during the inhalation process and enhance user experience. Auxiliary raw materials can not only improve the fluidity of the mixed materials, but also make the aerosol generation matrix porous to facilitate the extraction and flow of aerosols. Adhesive raw materials ensure that plant raw material powder and auxiliary agents form a stable mixture to avoid loose structure.

[0118] In one embodiment, the plant raw material is one or more combinations of particles formed by crushing tobacco raw materials, tobacco leaf fragments, tobacco stems, tobacco dust, and aromatic plants. The plant raw material is the core source of aroma. The endogenous substances in the plant raw material can give users a sense of physiological satisfaction. The endogenous substances, such as alkaloids, enter the human blood and promote the pituitary gland to produce dopamine, thereby obtaining a sense of physiological satisfaction.

[0119] In one embodiment, the auxiliary agent raw material can be one or more combinations of inorganic fillers, lubricants, and emulsifiers. Among them, the inorganic filler includes one or more combinations of heavy calcium carbonate, light calcium carbonate, zeolite, attapulgite, talc, and diatomaceous earth. The inorganic filler can provide a skeleton support for the plant raw material, and the inorganic filler also has micropores, which can increase the porosity of the aerosol generation matrix, thereby increasing the aerosol release rate.

[0120] The lubricant includes one or more combinations of candelilla wax, carnauba wax, shellac, sunflower wax, rice bran, beeswax, stearic acid, and palmitic acid. The lubricant can increase the fluidity of the plant raw material powder, reduce the friction between the plant raw material powders, make the overall density of the plant raw material powder distribution more uniform, and also reduce the pressure required in the extrusion molding process, reducing the wear of the die 13.

[0121] The emulsifier includes one or more combinations of polyglycerol fatty acid ester, Tween-80, and polyvinyl alcohol. The emulsifier can slow down the loss of flavor substances during storage to a certain extent, increase the stability of flavor substances, and improve the sensory quality of the product.

[0122] In one embodiment, the smoke-generating agent raw material may include: a monohydric alcohol (such as menthol); a polyhydric alcohol (such as propylene glycol, glycerol, triethylene glycol, 1,3-butylene glycol and tetraethylene glycol); an ester of a polyhydric alcohol (such as triacetin, triethyl citrate, a mixture of diacetin esters, triethyl citrate, benzyl benzoate, glyceryl tributyrate); a monocarboxylic acid; a dicarboxylic acid; a polycarboxylic acid (such as lauric acid, myristic acid) or an aliphatic ester of a polycarboxylic acid (such as dimethyl dodecanedioate, dimethyl tetradecanedioate, erythritol, 1,3-butylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, triethyl citrate, propylene carbonate, ethyl laurate, Triactin, meso-erythritol, a mixture of diacetin esters, diethyl suberate, triethyl citrate, benzyl benzoate, benzyl phenylacetate, ethyl vanillate, glyceryl tributyrate, lauryl acetate) or one or more combinations thereof.

[0123] In one embodiment, the adhesive raw material is in close contact with the component raw material interface by wetting, generating intermolecular attraction, thereby playing the role of bonding the component raw materials such as powders, liquids, etc. The adhesive raw material can be a natural plant extract, a non-ionized modified viscous polysaccharide, including one or more combinations of tamarind polysaccharide, guar gum, and modified cellulose (such as carboxymethyl cellulose). The adhesive is used to bond the particles together, which is not easy to loosen. In addition, it improves the water resistance of the aerosol generation matrix and is harmless to the human body.

[0124] In one embodiment, the flavor raw material is used to provide a characteristic aroma, such as a solid or liquid substance of hay aroma, roasted sweet aroma, and nicotine. The flavor raw material may include one or more combinations of tobacco, flavor plant extracts, extracts, essential oils, and absolute oils; the flavor raw material may include one or more combinations of monomer flavor substances, such as megastigmatriene, neophytadiene, geraniol, nerol, and the like.

[0125] Exemplarily, in one embodiment, the temperature of hot air drying is between 50° C. and 200° C. For example, the temperature of hot air drying is 50° C., 60° C., 61° C., 63° C., 65° C., 70° C., 72° C., 74° C., 85° C., 90° C., 95° C., 100° C., 128° C., 130° C., 135° C., 140° C., 145° C., 150° C. or 200° C., etc. When the temperature of hot air drying is less than 50° C., the drying time is long, the production efficiency is low, the drying device 2 occupies a large area, and the equipment cost is high. When the hot air drying temperature is greater than 200°C, the moisture on the surface of the extruded matrix 1000 evaporates quickly, while the moisture inside the extruded matrix 1000 evaporates slowly, resulting in rapid shrinkage of the outer surface of the extruded matrix 1000, which is not conducive to the uniformity and stability of the shape and composition of the extruded matrix 1000. In addition, the aroma components and effective ingredients in the mixed material, such as alkaloids and / or smoke-generating agents, are easily lost due to heat, resulting in high manufacturing costs and reduced quality of the finished aerosol-generating matrix, and a reduced user experience.

[0126] Exemplarily, in one embodiment, the temperature of hot air drying is between 75°C and 125°C. For example, the temperature of hot air drying is 75°C, 76°C, 80°C, 81°C, 82°C, 83°C, 86°C, 91°C, 94°C, 96°C, 98°C, 99°C, 101°C, 105°C, 106°C, 110°C, 120°C or 125°C, etc. The hot air drying adopts the above temperature, and the extruded matrix 1000 can be dried slowly. Under the condition of ensuring a high drying efficiency, the evaporation rate of the liquid inside the extruded matrix 1000 and the evaporation rate of the liquid on the outer surface of the extruded matrix 1000 tend to be consistent, reducing the probability of the morphology of the extruded matrix 1000 changing with hot air drying. The aroma components and effective components in the mixed material, such as alkaloids and / or smoke-generating agents, are not easily lost by heat, and the effective substances can be retained as much as possible to ensure the quality of the finished aerosol-generating matrix.

[0127] In one embodiment, the moisture content of the dried extruded matrix 1000 is between 3% and 20%. Preferably, the moisture content of the dried extruded matrix 1000 is between 4% and 13%. Exemplarily, the moisture content of the dried extruded matrix 1000 is 3%, 4%, 5%, 10%, 11%, 13%, 15%, 16%, 18% or 20%, etc. In the case where the moisture content of the dried extruded matrix 1000 is less than 3%, not only is the dried extruded matrix 1000 fragile in the subsequent production and processing process, resulting in a high subsequent production defect rate of the dried extruded matrix 1000, thereby increasing the production cost; and in the process of heating and puffing, the impurities generated by the aerosol-generating matrix are high, affecting the puffing experience. In the case where the moisture content of the dried extruded matrix 1000 is greater than 20%, the moisture content of the aerosol of the dried extruded matrix 1000 is high during the heating and puffing process, and it is easy to produce a "hot mouth" phenomenon during the puffing process, reducing the puffing experience.

[0128] In one embodiment, the extruded matrix 1000 has an air channel 1000a running through at least one end thereof in the longitudinal direction, and during the hot air drying process, the flow direction of the hot air is parallel to the longitudinal direction of the extruded matrix 1000. The hot air can not only contact the outer peripheral surface of the extruded matrix 1000, but also enter the air channel 1000a, thereby increasing the contact area between the hot air and the extruded matrix 1000 and improving the drying efficiency.

[0129] In one embodiment, after the mixed material is extruded at low temperature to form an extruded matrix, the manufacturing method includes:

[0130] S300: cutting the extruded matrix.

[0131] See also Figure 2 and Figure 3The extruded matrix 1000 can be cut by the cutting tool 61 of the cutting device 6 so that the extruded matrix 1000 reaches a set length. In this way, the extruded matrix 1000 of the set length can be suitable for the subsequent drying device 2 or packaging device 7, reducing the requirements for the subsequent devices.

[0132] It is understandable that the specific value of the set length is not limited, and the set length can be set according to the aerosol generating matrix or according to the conditions of the manufacturing equipment.

[0133] In some embodiments, the extruded matrix 1000 is in a continuous structure through low temperature extrusion. That is, during the extrusion process, the extruded matrix 1000 is continuously extruded so that the extruded matrix 1000 is in a continuous structure. Continuous extrusion can improve extrusion efficiency, and the extruded matrix 1000 is subsequently cut into a set length to shorten the length.

[0134] In some embodiments, the extruded matrix 1000 is a segmented structure of a preset length. That is, during the extrusion process, the extruded matrix 1000 naturally separates when it reaches the preset length. For example, the extruded matrix 1000 may separate from the die 13 when it reaches a preset length because it reaches a critical value. In this way, the preset length of the extruded matrix 1000 may be the length of the aerosol generating matrix, and the extruded matrix 1000 may not be cut, so that the cutting device 6 can be saved and the equipment cost can be reduced.

[0135] It should be understood that the preset length may be greater than, less than or equal to the set length.

[0136] It should be noted that, in some embodiments, step S300 may be before step S200, that is, the extruded matrix 1000 may be cut before hot air drying the extruded matrix 1000. In some embodiments, step S300 may be after step S200, that is, the extruded matrix 1000 may be cut after hot air drying the extruded matrix 1000.

[0137] Exemplarily, in one embodiment, the manufacturing method includes: S500, correcting the shape of the extruded matrix. Correction refers to correcting the circumference and / or straightness of the extruded matrix 1000 by a jig. Straightness refers to the degree of curvature of the extruded matrix 1000 in the longitudinal direction.

[0138] Since the texture of the extruded matrix 1000 is usually relatively soft, during the manufacturing process of the extruded matrix 1000, the circumference of the extruded matrix 1000 is deformed and / or the extruded matrix 1000 is bent in the longitudinal direction. For example, during the process of slitting the extruded matrix 1000 by the slitting device 6, the circumference of the extruded matrix 1000 may be deformed and / or the extruded matrix 1000 may be bent in the longitudinal direction. Therefore, the extruded matrix 1000 can be calibrated for circumference and / or straightness by a jig.

[0139] It should be noted that step S500 can be implemented in any case where correction is required after step S100, and step S500 can be implemented once or multiple times during the entire manufacturing process of the aerosol generating substrate. For example, step S500 can be implemented before and / or after step S300. For another example, step S500 can be implemented before step S200.

[0140] In one embodiment, before the extruded matrix is ​​subjected to hot air drying, the manufacturing method comprises:

[0141] S400: Hardening the extruded matrix by cooling.

[0142] See also Figures 2 to 4 , the extruded matrix 1000 is cooled and hardened by the hardening device 5. Since the mixed material is a solid-liquid mixture, the hardness of the extruded matrix 1000 after low-temperature extrusion is relatively low, so that the extruded matrix 1000 after low-temperature extrusion is easily deformed and it is difficult to maintain the shape of the extruded matrix 1000. In order to improve the stability of the shape of the extruded matrix 1000 and facilitate the subsequent production process, the extruded matrix 1000 is cooled and hardened to improve its hardness.

[0143] In some embodiments, the hardness of the extruded matrix 1000 before hardening is between 0HB and 100HB (including 0HB and 100HB), which makes the extruded matrix 1000 before hardening soft and easy to deform.

[0144] In one embodiment, the hardness of the hardened extruded matrix 1000 is between 1HB and 200HB. For example, the hardness of the hardened extruded matrix 1000 is 1HB, 10HB, 20HB, 30HB, 40HB, 50HB, 80HB, 100HB, 150HB or 200HB, etc. Under this hardness range, the hardened extruded matrix 1000 can maintain its shape well, avoiding the situation that the outer surface of the hardened extruded matrix 1000 will adhere to other structures, the hardened extruded matrix 1000 is easy to cut, and the extruded matrix 1000 after cutting is not easy to deform, and the end face formed by cutting is integral and complete.

[0145] Preferably, the hardness of the extruded matrix 1000 before cooling and hardening can be 1HB to 60HB (including 1HB and 60HB), and after cooling and hardening, the hardness of the extruded matrix 1000 can be 40HB to 120HB (including 40HB and 120HB), and after hot air drying, the hardness of the extruded matrix 1000 can be 40HB to 300HB (including 40HB and 300HB). Preferably, the hardness of the extruded matrix 1000 after hot air drying can be 80HB to 250HB (including 80HB and 250HB).

[0146] It should be noted that HB is the Brinell hardness.

[0147] In some embodiments, hardening the extruded matrix by cooling includes placing the extruded matrix in a cooling environment temperature for cooling and hardening, wherein the cooling environment temperature is lower than the hardening temperature of the extruded matrix.

[0148] Exemplarily, under the premise that the cooling environment temperature is lower than the hardening temperature of the extruded matrix, if the hardening temperature of the extruded matrix is ​​-100°C to 10°C (including -100°C and 10°C), the cooling environment temperature can be -270°C to 10°C (including -270°C and 10°C).

[0149] More preferably, if the hardening temperature of the extruded matrix 1000 is -30°C to 5°C (inclusive), the cooling environment temperature may be -50°C to 5°C (inclusive).

[0150] In one embodiment, the temperature of the extruded matrix 1000 before hardening is between 0° C. and 40° C., and the temperature of the extruded matrix 1000 after hardening is between -50° C. and 5° C. Exemplarily, the temperature of the extruded matrix 1000 after hardening is -50° C., -45° C., -40° C., -39° C., -35° C., -30° C., -25° C., -20° C., -15° C., -10° C., -5° C., 0° C., 1° C., 3° ​​C., or 5° C., etc.

[0151] The following are several specific embodiments to illustrate the manufacturing method of the present application, which are described in detail as follows:

[0152] In the first specific embodiment, the aerosol generating matrix is ​​obtained through steps S100, S400, S300, and S200 in sequence. In this embodiment, the extrusion molding is performed through step S100, the extruded matrix 1000 is hardened through step S400, the hardness of the extruded matrix 1000 is increased through hardening, so as to perform the cutting in step S300, and finally the moisture content of the extruded matrix 1000 is reduced through S200 to obtain the finished aerosol generating matrix.

[0153] In the second specific embodiment, the aerosol generating substrate is obtained by sequentially performing steps S100, S300, and S200. The difference between this embodiment and the first specific embodiment is that the hardening step is reduced, that is, the extruded substrate 1000 extruded from the extrusion device 1 can be directly cut. For example, when the length of the aerosol generating substrate along the longitudinal direction is short, the slight deformation caused by the cutting has no effect on the subsequent production, and the hardening step can be omitted.

[0154] In the third specific embodiment, the aerosol generating matrix is ​​obtained by sequentially performing steps S100, S200, and S300. The difference between this embodiment and the second specific embodiment is that the hot air drying step and the slitting step are swapped in order. In this embodiment, the extruded matrix 1000 extruded by step S100 is first subjected to hot air drying in step S200 and then slitting. The extruded matrix 1000 may shrink in volume after hot air drying. By first hot air drying and then slitting, the longitudinal size consistency of the aerosol generating matrix after slitting can be improved.

[0155] In the fourth specific embodiment: the aerosol generating matrix is ​​obtained by sequentially performing steps S100 and S200. The difference between this embodiment and the first specific embodiment is that the hardening step and the slitting step are reduced, that is, the extruded matrix 1000 is subjected to hot air drying to obtain a finished aerosol generating matrix. Exemplarily, the extruded matrix 1000 is extruded in a vertical direction, and the extruded matrix 1000 reaches a preset length (for example, the extruded matrix 1000 reaches a critical value), and the extruded matrix 1000 will naturally detach (separate), and the preset length of the extruded matrix 1000 is the length required for the aerosol generating matrix. In this way, there may be no hardening step and slitting step, thereby reducing the subsequent processing process and reducing the production cost.

[0156] In one embodiment, the manufacturing method includes:

[0157] A wrapping layer is wrapped around the outer surface of the aerosol generating substrate.

[0158] See also Figures 2 to 4 The packaging device 7 wraps a wrapping layer on the outer surface of the aerosol generating substrate, and the wrapping layer can protect the aerosol generating substrate.

[0159] The wrapping layer includes but is not limited to one or more combinations of materials such as fiber paper, metal foil, metal foil composite fiber paper, polyethylene composite fiber paper, PE (Polyethylene), PBAT (Polybutylene Adipate Terephthalate) and the like.

[0160] In some embodiments, after the outer surface of the aerosol generating substrate is wrapped with a wrapping layer, it can be combined with the functional segment to form an aerosol generating product.

[0161] In other embodiments, the aerosol generating substrate may be first combined with the functional segment, and then the outer surfaces of the aerosol generating substrate and the functional segment may be wrapped with a wrapping layer to form an aerosol generating product.

[0162] In some other embodiments, the outer surface of the aerosol generating substrate may be firstly wrapped with a wrapping layer, and then combined with the functional segment and wrapped with the wrapping layer to form an aerosol generating product. In other words, the outer surface of the aerosol generating substrate may be wrapped with multiple wrapping layers.

[0163] See also Figures 2 to 4 The embodiment of the present application also provides a manufacturing device for an aerosol generating substrate, the manufacturing device comprising an extrusion device 1 and a drying device 2.

[0164] The extrusion device 1 is used for low-temperature extrusion of the mixed material to form an extruded matrix 1000 .

[0165] The drying device 2 is used for drying the extruded matrix 1000 by hot air.

[0166] In the manufacturing equipment provided by the embodiment of the present application, the extrusion device 1 extrude the mixed material at low temperature. The mixed material has high viscosity, and the extruded matrix 1000 is easier to adhere tightly, and is not prone to loosening and cracking, which effectively improves the yield rate; in addition, low-temperature extrusion can offset the heat generated during the extrusion of the mixed material, thereby reducing the loss of volatile aroma substances during the extrusion process. The drying device 2 uses hot air drying to extrude the matrix 1000. During hot air drying, the shrinkage rate of the extruded matrix 1000 is small, and the drying time is short, which is convenient for continuous production. Low-temperature extrusion and hot air drying are used in combination, which can achieve continuous production, high production efficiency, and low manufacturing cost; the extruded matrix 1000 is uniform and stable, and has high processability.

[0167] In one embodiment, please refer to Figures 2 to 4 The drying device 2 includes a housing 21, a fan 22 and a heating element 23. The housing 21 has a drying chamber 21a. The fan 22 is used to drive the airflow in the drying chamber 21a. The heating element 23 is disposed in the drying chamber 21a and is used to heat the airflow in the drying chamber 21a. In this way, the heating element 23 generates heat to heat the airflow in the drying chamber 21a, and the fan 22 accelerates the flow of the airflow in the drying chamber 21a.

[0168] In one embodiment, please refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4 , the number of the heating elements 23 is at least two, and the at least two heating elements 23 are arranged at intervals in the up-down direction to form an interval space for the extruded matrix 1000 to be conveyed. That is, the extruded matrix 1000 is conveyed in the interval space, and the at least two heating elements 23 are located at the upper and lower sides of the extruded matrix 1000. In this way, the at least two heating elements 23 bake the extruded matrix 1000 synchronously from the top and the bottom, so that the extruded matrix 1000 can be heated evenly, the shape stability of the extruded matrix 1000 can be improved, and the dehydration efficiency can be improved, and the load of a single heating element 23 can be reduced.

[0169] In some embodiments, only one heating element 23 may be provided. Similarly, when the heating efficiency of the heating element 23 is very high, a better drying effect can be achieved.

[0170] The structure and shape of the heating element 23 are not limited. For example, please refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4 , the heating element 23 is in a plate-like structure. The heating element 23 can be a flat plate or a curved plate. The heating element 23 in a plate-like structure can be placed in a horizontal direction. That is, the thickness direction of the heating element 23 in a plate-like structure is perpendicular to the horizontal direction.

[0171] In one embodiment, please refer to Figure 5 and Figure 6 , the drying device 2 comprises a conveyor belt 25 for conveying the extruded matrix 1000, and the conveyor belt 25 is formed with a plurality of grooves 25a toward the surface of the extruded matrix 1000, each groove 25a is used to place an extruded matrix 1000, and at least part of the extruded matrix 1000 is located in the groove 25a. The conveyor belt 25 can rotate to drive the extruded matrix 1000 to produce displacement. Exemplarily, a plurality of grooves 25a are arranged at intervals along the conveying direction of the conveyor belt 25, and the length direction of the groove 25a intersects with the conveying direction. The two ends of the length direction of the groove 25a run through the two ends of the width direction of the conveyor belt 25. On the one hand, the groove wall surface of the groove 25a can limit the movement of the extruded matrix 1000 to avoid displacement of the extruded matrix 1000 during the conveying process. On the other hand, each groove 25a is used to place an extruded matrix 1000, and the groove 25a can prevent multiple extruded matrices 1000 from contacting and sticking.

[0172] In one embodiment, the groove 25a is formed with an insertion port, and the extruded matrix 1000 is inserted into the groove 25a through the insertion port.

[0173] Exemplarily, the cross-sectional shape of the groove 25 a is not limited, and the cross-sectional shape of the groove 25 a may be semicircular or semi-elliptical, etc.

[0174] In some embodiments, the drying device 2 may also include a clamping member, which is used to clamp the extruded matrix 1000 to fix the extruded matrix 1000 on the conveyor belt 25. The clamping member limits the movement of the extruded matrix 1000 relative to the conveyor belt 25.

[0175] In one embodiment, please refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4The housing 21 is formed with an inlet 21b and a delivery outlet 21c both of which are connected to the drying chamber 21a, and a portion of the conveyor belt 25 is disposed in the interval between the two heating elements 23. The conveyor belt 25 is used to convey the extruded matrix 1000 from the inlet 21b to the delivery outlet 21c. The extruded matrix 1000 is placed on the conveyor belt 25 through the inlet 21b and is conveyed to the delivery outlet 21c by the conveyor belt 25. The conveyor belt 25 can realize continuous conveyance of the extruded matrix 1000.

[0176] In one embodiment, please refer to Figure 5 , Figure 6 and Figure 8 , the extruded matrix 1000 has an air passage 1000a running through at least one end thereof in the longitudinal direction, and the drying device 2 includes a guide channel 24 for guiding hot air, and an air outlet 24a of the guide channel 24 is located at one side of the extruded matrix 1000 in the longitudinal direction. In other words, the air outlet 24a of the guide channel 24 faces the opening of the air passage 1000a of the extruded matrix 1000. In this way, the air flow blown out of the air outlet 24a of the guide channel 24 can enter the air passage 1000a through the opening of the air passage 1000a. For example, during the hot air drying process, the flow direction of the hot air is parallel to the longitudinal direction of the extruded matrix 1000; thereby, the contact area between the hot air and the extruded matrix 1000 can be increased, thereby improving the drying efficiency.

[0177] For example, in one embodiment, please refer to Figure 5 The outlet 51c of the fan 22 is connected to the air inlet 24b of the guide channel 24, so that the airflow from the fan 22 can flow out from the air outlet 24a of the guide channel 24. The heating element 23 can be arranged in the guide channel 24, and the heating element 23 can also be arranged in the housing of the fan 22.

[0178] It is understandable that the air outlet direction of the air outlet 24a of the guide channel 24 may also be inclined at a certain angle to the longitudinal direction of the extruded matrix 1000. In this way, the inner and outer surfaces of the extruded matrix 1000 may be heated simultaneously to improve the drying efficiency.

[0179] In one embodiment, please refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4 The manufacturing equipment includes a microwave device 3 at least partially located in the drying chamber 21a, and the microwave device 3 dries the extruded matrix 1000 by emitting microwave radiation. Microwave radiation drying refers to the use of microwaves to cause the polar molecules inside the extruded matrix 1000 to vibrate violently and generate heat to promote the volatilization of water in the extruded matrix 1000, which can reduce the hot air drying temperature, reduce the drying time, and improve the retention rate of aroma components and effective substances in the aerosol generation matrix.

[0180] For example, in some embodiments, microwave radiation drying may be performed before or simultaneously with hot air drying.

[0181] In one embodiment, please refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4 The manufacturing equipment includes an ultrasonic device 4 at least partially located in the drying chamber 21a, and the ultrasonic device 4 radiates ultrasonic waves to dry the extruded matrix 1000. Ultrasonic radiation drying refers to the use of ultrasonic waves to produce cavitation effect on the water inside the extruded matrix 1000, reduce the water volatilization temperature, promote water volatilization, reduce the hot air drying temperature, reduce the drying time, and improve the retention rate of aroma components and effective substances in the aerosol generation matrix.

[0182] For example, in some embodiments, ultrasonic radiation drying may be performed before or simultaneously with hot air drying.

[0183] In one embodiment, please refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4 The microwave device 3 can be arranged above or below any one of the heating elements 23. With such a design, the microwaves emitted by the microwave device 3, such as electromagnetic waves, have a wider range, which can make the extruded matrix 1000 heated more uniformly.

[0184] In one embodiment, the microwave device 3 can be disposed on both sides of the conveyor belt 25 along its width direction. With such a design, the microwaves emitted by the microwave device 3, such as electromagnetic waves, have less energy loss, which can improve the overall heating rate.

[0185] In one embodiment, please refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4 The ultrasonic device 4 can be arranged above or below any one of the heating elements 23. With such a design, the ultrasonic device 4 emits a wider range of ultrasonic waves, which can make the extruded matrix 1000 heated more uniformly.

[0186] In one embodiment, the ultrasonic device 4 can be disposed on both sides of the conveyor belt 25 along its width direction. With such a design, the ultrasonic energy loss emitted by the ultrasonic device 4 is smaller, and the overall heating rate can be improved.

[0187] In one embodiment, please refer to Figures 2 to 4The extrusion device 1 includes an extrusion barrel 11, an extrusion screw 12 and a die 13. The extrusion barrel 11 includes an extrusion chamber 11a for accommodating a mixed material and a discharge port 11c connected to the extrusion chamber 11a. The extrusion screw 12 is rotatably arranged in the extrusion chamber 11a. The die 13 is arranged at the discharge port 11c, and the extrusion screw 12 pushes the mixed material to extrude from the die 13 to form an extruded matrix 1000. The extrusion barrel 11 is formed with a feed port 11b connected to the extrusion chamber 11a. The extrusion screw 12 is used to push the mixed material to the discharge port 11c. Exemplarily, during the rotation of the extrusion screw 12, the mixed material can flow toward the discharge port 11c along the threaded channel of the circumferential surface of the extrusion screw 12. The die 13 is used to form an extruded matrix 1000 with a set cross-sectional shape.

[0188] In one embodiment, please refer to Figure 3 , Figure 4 ,as well as Figures 7 to 9 The extrusion device 1 includes a bottom die 15, and the mouth die 13 is arranged on the bottom die 15. The bottom die 15 provides a mounting position for the mouth die 13.

[0189] In one embodiment, the bottom die 15 closes the discharge port 11 c , so that the mixed material is extruded through the die 13 .

[0190] In one embodiment, a single die 13 is provided on a single bottom die 15. In other words, a single die and a single die are adopted. In this way, the size of the extrusion screw 12 can be smaller.

[0191] In one embodiment, please refer to Fig. 9 , a single bottom die 15 is provided with a plurality of die openings 13. In other words, a single die with multiple openings is adopted. After the mixed material passes through the plurality of die openings 13, a plurality of extruded matrices 1000 are simultaneously formed. This can improve production efficiency and is suitable for mass production.

[0192] In one embodiment, please refer to Fig.10 , the number of the bottom mold 15 is multiple, the extrusion device 1 includes an adapter 16, and the multiple bottom molds 15 are arranged on the adapter 16, and the adapter 16 closes the discharge port 11c. In other words, a multi-mode multi-port is adopted. Compared with a single-mode multi-port, a multi-mode multi-port can be installed with more dies 13, thereby forming more extruded matrices 1000 at the same time. This can improve production efficiency and is more suitable for mass production.

[0193] In one embodiment, please refer to Figures 2 to 4 The manufacturing equipment includes a hardening device 5, which is used to cool and harden the extruded matrix 1000.

[0194] In one embodiment, please refer to Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Fig.11The hardening device 5 includes a housing 51 and a conveyor belt 52. The housing 51 is formed with an inlet 51a, a cold chamber 51b and an outlet 51c. The inlet 51a and the outlet 51c are both connected to the cold chamber 51b. At least a portion of the conveyor belt 52 is located in the cold chamber 51b. The conveyor belt 52 is used to convey the extruded matrix 1000 from the inlet 51a to the outlet 51c. The extruded matrix 1000 is placed on the conveyor belt 52 through the inlet 51a and is conveyed to the outlet 51c by the conveyor belt 52. The conveyor belt 52 can realize continuous conveyance of the extruded matrix 1000, so that the extruded matrix 1000 can be continuously hardened through the hardening device 5 to achieve continuous generation.

[0195] In one embodiment, please refer to Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Fig.11 The housing 51 is formed with an injection port 51d, which is connected to the cold chamber 51b to inject the refrigerant into the cold chamber 51b. The refrigerant can contact the extruded matrix 1000 to absorb the heat of the extruded matrix 1000, thereby cooling and hardening the extruded matrix 1000. In this way, the outer surface of the hardened extruded matrix 1000 can be quickly cooled, the stability of the shape of the extruded matrix 1000 can be maintained, continuous production can be facilitated, and production efficiency can be improved.

[0196] The refrigerant may be in liquid, gaseous or solid state. For example, the refrigerant includes but is not limited to liquid nitrogen or liquefied air.

[0197] For example, in one embodiment, please refer to Fig.11 , the injection port 51d extends in a direction intersecting with the conveying direction of the conveyor belt 52.

[0198] In one embodiment, please refer to Fig.11 The injection port 51 d may be formed on the upper surface of the housing 51 . In this way, the refrigerant may enter the cold chamber 51 b from top to bottom to contact the extruded matrix 1000 on the conveyor belt 52 .

[0199] In one embodiment, please refer to Fig.11 , the conveyor belt 52 is formed with a plurality of guide grooves 52a towards the surface of the extruded matrix 1000, each guide groove 52a is used to place a line of extruded matrix 1000, and at least part of the extruded matrix 1000 is located in the guide groove 52a. On the one hand, the groove wall surface of the guide groove 52a can limit the movement of the extruded matrix 1000 to avoid displacement of the extruded matrix 1000 during the conveying process. On the other hand, each guide groove 52a is used to place a line of extruded matrix 1000, and the guide groove 52a can prevent multiple extruded matrices 1000 from contacting and sticking.

[0200] For example, in one embodiment, please refer to Fig.11The length direction of the guide groove 52a is consistent with the conveying direction of the conveyor belt 52. A plurality of guide grooves 52a are arranged at intervals along the width direction of the conveyor belt 52.

[0201] In one embodiment, the guide groove 52a is formed with a take-in and put-out opening, and the extruded matrix 1000 is put into the guide groove 52a through the take-in and put-out opening.

[0202] Exemplarily, the cross-sectional shape of the guide groove 52a is not limited, and the cross-sectional shape of the guide groove 52a may be semicircular or semi-elliptical, etc.

[0203] In one embodiment, please refer to Fig.12 The housing 51 is formed with a refrigerant channel 51e, the cold chamber 51b is isolated from the refrigerant channel 51e and is located in the refrigerant channel 51e, and the extruded matrix 1000 is in contact with the cavity wall surface of the cold chamber 51b. In other words, the refrigerant does not contact the extruded matrix 1000. The refrigerant flows in the refrigerant channel 51e, and the extruded matrix 1000 and the refrigerant transfer heat through the cavity wall surface of the cold chamber 51b. In this way, the extruded matrix 1000 can be prevented from directly contacting the refrigerant, and the problem of expansion deformation and cracking after rapid cooling can be avoided.

[0204] In one embodiment, please refer to Fig.12 The shell 51 includes an outer shell 511 and an inner shell 512. The inner shell 512 is formed with a cold cavity 51b. The inner shell 512 is located in the outer shell 511 and defines a refrigerant channel 51e together. The shell 51 is a double-layer shell structure. The refrigerant channel 51e defined by the outer shell 511 and the inner shell 512 is used to flow the refrigerant. The cold cavity 51b and the refrigerant channel 51e are separated by the inner shell 512. The extruded matrix 1000 contacts the inner surface of the inner shell 512 to transfer heat to the refrigerant through the inner shell 512.

[0205] In one embodiment, the smoothness of the cavity wall of the cold cavity 51b is between Ra1.2μm and Ra0.08μm. Ra refers to the average surface roughness value, which is used to indicate the smoothness and roughness of the surface. Exemplarily, the smoothness of the cavity wall of the cold cavity 51b is Ra1.2μm, Ra1.1μm, Ra1.0μm, Ra0.5μm, Ra0.3μm, Ra0.1μm or Ra0.08μm, etc. The cavity wall of the cold cavity 51b is a smooth surface, and the friction between the cavity wall of the cold cavity 51b and the outer surface of the extruded matrix 1000 is very small, which will not cause the extruded matrix 1000 to deform.

[0206] In one embodiment, the hardening device 5 includes a refrigerant supplier, which is connected to the injection port 51d or the refrigerant supplier is connected to the refrigerant channel 51e. In other words, the refrigerant supplier is used to inject refrigerant into the injection port 51d. Alternatively, the refrigerant supplier is used to inject refrigerant into the refrigerant channel 51e.

[0207] In one embodiment, please refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4 The manufacturing equipment includes a slitting device 6 having a slitting tool 61, and the slitting tool 61 slits the extruded matrix 1000 by physical contact or non-physical contact.

[0208] Physical contact refers to slitting the extruded matrix 1000 by direct contact between the slitting tool 61 and the extruded matrix 1000. For example, the slitting tool 61 can be a rotating roller, a cutting blade, a cutting wire, a roller cut, or an extruder.

[0209] Non-physical contact means that the slitting tool 61 does not need to directly contact the extruded matrix 1000 to slit the extruded matrix 1000. For example, the slitting tool 61 releases laser, plasma, air knife or water knife to cut the extruded matrix 1000 by laser, plasma, air knife or water knife.

[0210] The manufacturing equipment used in the embodiments of the present application can be used in the manufacturing method of the embodiments of the present application. The description of the manufacturing equipment embodiment is similar to the description of any one of the embodiments of the manufacturing method, and has the same beneficial effects as the manufacturing method embodiment. For technical details not disclosed in the manufacturing method in the embodiments of the present application, please refer to the description of the embodiments of the extrusion device 1, the drying device 2, the hardening device 5 and the slitting device 6 in the embodiments of the present application for understanding.

[0211] In the description of the present application, the description with reference to the terms "in one embodiment", "in some embodiments", "in other embodiments", "in yet other embodiments", or "exemplary" etc. means that the specific features, structures, materials or characteristics described in conjunction with the embodiment or example are included in at least one embodiment or example of the embodiments of the present application. In the present application, the schematic representation of the above terms does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Moreover, the specific features, structures, materials or characteristics described may be combined in a suitable manner in any one or more embodiments or examples. In addition, those skilled in the art may combine the different embodiments or examples described in the present application and the features of the different embodiments or examples without contradiction.

[0212] The above description is only a preferred embodiment of the present application and is not intended to limit the present application. For those skilled in the art, the present application may have various modifications and variations. Any modification, equivalent replacement, improvement, etc. made within the spirit and principle of the present application are included in the protection scope of the present application.

Claims

1. A method for producing an aerosol-generating substrate, characterized in that: include: The mixed material is extruded at low temperature to form an extruded matrix; The extruded matrix is ​​subjected to hot air drying.

2. The manufacturing method according to claim 1, characterized in that: The extrusion temperature of the low-temperature extrusion is greater than or equal to -50°C and less than 10°C.

3. The manufacturing method according to claim 2, characterized in that: The extrusion temperature of the low-temperature extrusion is between -35°C and 5°C.

4. The manufacturing method according to claim 1, characterized in that: The extrusion pressure of the low-temperature extrusion is between 0.5 bar and 300 bar.

5. The manufacturing method according to claim 1, characterized in that: The temperature of the hot air drying is between 50°C and 200°C.

6. The manufacturing method according to claim 5, characterized in that: The temperature of the hot air drying is between 75°C and 125°C.

7. The manufacturing method according to claim 1, characterized in that: The moisture content of the extruded matrix after drying is 3% to 20%.

8. The manufacturing method according to claim 1, characterized in that: The extruded matrix has an air channel penetrating at least one end thereof in the longitudinal direction. During the hot air drying process, the flow direction of the hot air is parallel to the longitudinal direction of the extruded matrix.

9. The manufacturing method according to claim 1, characterized in that: After the mixed material is extruded at low temperature to form an extruded matrix, the manufacturing method comprises: The extruded matrix is ​​cut into pieces.

10. The manufacturing method according to claim 1, characterized in that: Before the extruded matrix is ​​subjected to hot air drying, the manufacturing method comprises: The extruded matrix hardens by cooling.

11. The manufacturing method according to claim 10, characterized in that: The hardness of the extruded matrix after hardening is between 1HB and 200HB.

12. The manufacturing method according to claim 1, characterized in that: The extruded matrix is ​​extruded in a horizontal direction; or, The extruded matrix is ​​extruded in a vertical direction; or, The extruded matrix is ​​extruded in an oblique direction.

13. The manufacturing method according to claim 1, characterized in that: The mixed material comprises, by weight: 30 to 90 parts of plant raw materials, 1 to 15 parts of auxiliary raw materials, 5 to 30 parts of smoke generating agent raw materials, 1 to 10 parts of adhesive raw materials, and 1 to 15 parts of flavor raw materials.

14. An apparatus for manufacturing an aerosol-generating substrate, characterized in that: The manufacturing equipment comprises: An extrusion device, the extrusion device is used to extrude the mixed material at low temperature to form an extruded matrix; A drying device is used for hot air drying the extruded matrix.

15. The manufacturing equipment according to claim 14, characterized in that The drying device comprises: A box body having a drying chamber; A fan, used to drive the air flow in the drying chamber; A heating element is disposed in the drying chamber, and is used to heat the airflow in the drying chamber.

16. The manufacturing equipment according to claim 15, characterized in that The number of the heating elements is at least two, and the at least two heating elements are spaced apart in the up-down direction to form a space for conveying the extruded matrix.

17. The manufacturing equipment according to claim 14, characterized in that The extruded matrix has an air passage running through at least one end thereof in the longitudinal direction, and the drying device comprises a guide channel for guiding hot air, wherein the air outlet of the guide channel is located at one side of the extruded matrix in the longitudinal direction.

18. The manufacturing equipment according to claim 14, characterized in that The drying device comprises a conveyor belt for conveying the extruded matrix, a plurality of grooves are formed on the surface of the conveyor belt facing the extruded matrix, each of the grooves is used to place a strip of the extruded matrix, and at least a portion of the extruded matrix is ​​located in the groove.

19. The manufacturing equipment according to claim 15, characterized in that The manufacturing apparatus comprises a microwave device at least partially located in the drying chamber, the microwave device drying the extruded matrix by emitting microwave radiation; and / or, The manufacturing apparatus includes an ultrasonic device at least partially located within the drying chamber, the ultrasonic device drying the extruded matrix by emitting ultrasonic radiation.

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