Additive application within aerosol-generating segment convergence device

Abstract

The invention relates to a device (1) for producing an aerosol-generating segment (3) of an aerosol-generating article. The device (1) comprises: a conveyor device (5) configured to convey, in a conveying direction, a package (11) on which an aerosol-generating substrate (21) is deposited; the invention relates to an aerosol-generating device (10) comprising a packaging (11) having an aerosol-generating substrate (21), a convergence device (13) configured to converge the packaging (11) having the aerosol-generating substrate (21), where the convergence device (13) comprises a partition (23) protruding into the aerosol-generating substrate (21) to at least partially separate the aerosol-generating substrate (21), and wherein the converging device (13) comprises a dispensing opening (37) to dispense an additive into the aerosol-generating substrate (21). The invention also relates to a method for producing an aerosol-generating segment (3) comprising an aerosol-generating substrate (21) and to the use of a separator (23) in the form of a blade for applying an additive within an aerosol-generating substrate (21).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an apparatus for producing an aerosol-generating segment of an aerosol-generating article. The present invention also relates to a method for producing an aerosol-generating segment comprising an aerosol-generating substrate and the use of a separator in the form of a blade. Background Art

[0002] US4619276 discloses a method and apparatus for applying a foaming material to tobacco filler. In a first disclosed embodiment, the foaming material is added to the filler in the chimney of a cigarette-making machine, and the filler is sucked upward from the chimney onto a perforated vacuum belt. In a second disclosed embodiment, the foaming material is added to the filler before the filler leaves the vacuum belt. In a third disclosed embodiment, the foaming material is added from the upper wall of the compression leg that forms a short tongue from the strip. Summary of the Invention

[0003] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided an apparatus for producing an aerosol-generating segment of an aerosol-generating article. The apparatus comprises: a conveyor device configured to convey, in a conveying direction, a package on which an aerosol-generating substrate is deposited; and a converging device configured to converge the packages having the aerosol-generating substrate. The converging device comprises a separator that projects into the aerosol-generating substrate to at least partially separate the aerosol-generating substrate. The converging device comprises dispensing openings for dispensing an additive into the aerosol-generating substrate.

[0004] The aerosol-generating substrate and the package are conveyed from an upstream end of the separator to a downstream end of the separator along the conveying direction.

[0005] The distribution of additives through the dispensing openings within the converging device prevents the device for processing the aerosol - generating substrate in the production line upstream of the converging device from being exposed to the additives. This reduces the necessary cleaning work and increases the availability of the production line. When the formation of the aerosol - generating segment has started, the position of the dispensing openings within the converging device can allow the injection of additives into the aerosol - generating substrate at specific locations. Compared to the stage of transporting the aerosol - generating substrate upstream of the converging device, the dispensing of additives within the converging device is at a stage where the rearrangement of the aerosol - generating substrate may already be restricted. Thus, the location within the aerosol - generating substrate where the additives are added can be more precise, and the additives can remain substantially stationary relative to the aerosol - generating substrate during the remaining production process. The separator creates spaces within the flow of the aerosol - generating substrate, which can allow the insertion of the additives in a desired amount and be surrounded by the aerosol - generating substrate. The additives can then diffuse into the surrounding aerosol - generating substrate. The surrounding aerosol - generating substrate can absorb the additives or can store the additives within its structure or both. The size and position of the spaces created within the aerosol - generating substrate by the separator can be adapted such that the additives remain within the aerosol - generating substrate without diffusing into the package. The amount of the additives can be adapted such that the additives remain within the aerosol - generating substrate without diffusing into the package. Thus, contamination of the package can be prevented.

[0006] The converging device can be adapted to converge packages having an aerosol - generating substrate into a strip. The strip can be a cigarette or can be a “heat - not - burn” (HnB) article for use in combination with an aerosol - generating device, where the aerosol - generating material is heated to release an aerosol but not burned. The strip can have an outer diameter between 5 mm and 13 mm. The strip can be in a substantially cylindrical form, having a central longitudinal axis extending in the conveying direction. Thus, the distance from the central longitudinal axis to the packages is substantially the same in all directions. Separating the aerosol - generating substrate during the formation of the strip can provide well - defined spaces and positions for injecting additives into the aerosol - generating substrate.

[0007] The aerosol - generating substrate can be a loose cut - filler. The aerosol - generating substrate can include plant - based materials. The aerosol - generating substrate can be a material containing alkaloids. The alkaloids can include nicotine. The aerosol - generating substrate can be tobacco. Instead of or in addition to tobacco, other plant - based materials can be part of the aerosol - generating substrate. The flow of the cut - filler may have been at least partially fixed in place within the converging device but can still be separated by the separator. Thus, it is possible to inject additives into the forming aerosol - generating segment at well - defined locations. The additives can be injected into the forming strip - shaped aerosol - generating segment at well - defined locations.

[0008] The separator can be substantially planar, with its main extension on the longitudinal axis of the converging device along the conveying direction and on the vertical axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. Thus, the aerosol-generating substrate can be sufficiently separated to provide a gap for the dispensing opening and to inject additives downstream of the separator. The gap can be less than one-third of the width of the flow of the aerosol-generating substrate. This can facilitate the subsequent closing of the gap downstream of the separator. Additionally, such a design can provide stability to the separator.

[0009] The separator can extend along the conveying direction and have at least a locally gradually increasing height along the conveying direction. This can enable the flow of the aerosol-generating substrate to gradually split to the left and right sides of the separator. This can prevent the aerosol-generating substrate from clogging at the upstream end of the separator. This can facilitate the deflection of the aerosol-generating substrate towards a third side or direction. This third side is the side where the height of the separator gradually increases, i.e., the lower side. Thus, the aerosol-generating substrate can be deflected in three directions (left, right, and downward). This can reduce the compression of the aerosol-generating substrate at a single side. Compared with a separator that already has its maximum height at its upstream end, this can reduce the compression of the aerosol-generating substrate.

[0010] The separator can have its maximum height in the last third of its extension along the conveying direction. This can provide sufficient range and time to separate the flow of the aerosol-generating substrate without suddenly disturbing the flow, and without clogging of the aerosol-generating substrate in front of the separator. Additionally, this can provide improved mechanical stability to the separator, as sudden deceleration of the material at the upstream end of the separator can be substantially avoided. Torsion or oscillation of the separator, or both, can be substantially avoided.

[0011] The height of the separator can increase continuously at least partially along the conveying direction. This can provide a continuous and gradual splitting of the flow of the aerosol-generating substrate.

[0012] At least the upstream half of the separator can be inclined at an angle less than 20 degrees, particularly an angle between 10 degrees and 20 degrees, relative to the conveying direction. This can prevent a sudden resistance to the flow of the aerosol-generating substrate. Thus, a smooth and increasing splitting of the aerosol-generating substrate can be provided.

[0013] The separator may have a substantially triangular shape. Thus, a separator with an increased height is provided, which can gradually split the flow of the aerosol - generating substrate. The upstream and downstream corners of the triangular shape may be the largest corners. The downstream side of the triangular shape may be the shortest side of the triangular shape. Thus, the lower long side can be used to split the flow of the aerosol - generating substrate and provides sufficient space compared to the shorter downstream side for arranging the dispensing opening in the gap of the aerosol - generating substrate. The triangular shape may be a right - angled triangle. The upstream and downstream corners of the triangle may have 90 degrees. This can provide a downstream end of the separator that is substantially perpendicular to the conveying direction. This can also provide the possibility of guiding the tube into the flow of the aerosol - generating substrate in the vertical direction and adjacent to the separator.

[0014] The separator may include a downstream portion having a lower height than the upstream portion of the separator. This can provide a position of the dispensing opening that is offset from the farthest lower range of the gap in the aerosol - generating substrate generated by the farthest extent of the separator. This can facilitate the dispensing of the additive from the dispensing opening into the cavity or gap. This can allow for a favorable distribution of the additive within the aerosol - generating substrate. The dispensing opening may be arranged in a recess of the separator. The recess may be arranged at the downstream end of the separator.

[0015] The height of the separator may be constant at least in a part of the separator. This can provide stability to the separator. The gap in the aerosol - generating substrate can also receive stability.

[0016] The separator may have a varying width. This can allow for changing the dimensions of the gap in the aerosol - generating substrate. The width of the separator may vary gradually. This can allow for a gradual change in the width of the gap in the aerosol - generating substrate. This can prevent a sudden compression of the upstream aerosol - generating substrate where the separator width increases, or an accumulation or vortex of the aerosol - generating substrate near the downstream where the separator width decreases. Thus, the disturbance of the flow of the aerosol - generating substrate can be minimized.

[0017] The width of the separator may increase at least in a part of the separator along the conveying direction. This can allow for a gradual splitting of the flow of the aerosol - generating substrate, starting from a minimum width or zero width at the upstream end of the separator until a width suitable for dispensing the additive at the downstream end of the separator. This can prevent the compression of the aerosol - generating substrate at the upstream end of the separator and thus maintain a substantially continuous flow of the aerosol - generating substrate. The separator may be at least partially wedge - shaped. Additionally, a part with a decreasing width of the separator may be provided. The part with the decreasing width may be located downstream of a part with a constant width or a part with an increasing width. This can allow for a gradual closing of the flow of the aerosol - generating substrate. The dispensing opening may be located upstream of the part with the decreasing width.

[0018] The separator can be formed integrally with the converging device. This can provide stability and can allow for a reduction in the width of the separator.

[0019] The separator can have a height between 2.5 millimeters and 4.5 millimeters. Thus, the separator extends into the flow of the aerosol - generating substrate and can create a gap of a corresponding height.

[0020] The separator can have a height between 3.0 and 4.0 millimeters. Thus, the flow of the aerosol - generating substrate, which is being formed into segments or strips with a diameter of approximately 7 millimeters, can split until near the middle or slightly further. This can allow for the distribution of additives in the region of the central longitudinal axis of the segments being formed.

[0021] The separator can have a height between 40% and 70% of the diameter of the aerosol - generating segment. This can allow for the injection of additives into the inner part or the center of the aerosol - generating substrate. This can enable the additives to be disposed in the inner part or the center of the aerosol - generating segment being formed.

[0022] The separator can have a width between 1 millimeter and 2 millimeters. This can create a gap in the aerosol - generating substrate such that a sufficient amount of additives can be injected.

[0023] The separator can have a width of 1.5 millimeters. A corresponding channel or tube can be arranged adjacent to or within the separator and can have corresponding distribution openings.

[0024] The separator can have a width between 150% and 400% of the width of the distribution opening. This can allow for the provision of a channel within the separator with stable sidewalls. When a tube extends through the separator, it can provide stable sidewalls for the separator. The separator includes stability against the forces generated by the flow of the aerosol - generating substrate and the pressure of the additives. Additionally, a gap with sufficient space can be provided to inject additives without the distribution openings significantly interfering with the aerosol - generating substrate.

[0025] The separator can have a length between 15 millimeters and 25 millimeters. This can allow for the establishment of a gap over a sufficient length to avoid sudden changes in the flow of the aerosol - generating substrate and thus reduce flow interference.

[0026] The separator can be formed at least partially of metal. This can provide stability and can allow for easy cleaning of the separator.

[0027] The separator can be coated with a friction - reducing material. This can allow the flow of the aerosol - generating substrate to pass through while experiencing reduced frictional forces.

[0028] The separator may be arranged along a central lateral position of the converging device. This may allow the distribution of the additive along the central longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating segment being formed.

[0029] The separator may extend at least from the wall of the converging device facing the aerosol-generating substrate to one third of the thickness of the aerosol-generating substrate. This may allow the distribution of the additive at a sufficient distance within the aerosol-generating segment being formed. This may allow the additive to be distributed within the aerosol-generating substrate without reaching the wrapper. The aerosol-generating substrate may at the same time be at least partially in contact with the wall of the converging device to be shaped into the desired form.

[0030] The separator may be arranged at the inlet end of the converging device. This may allow the distribution of the additive at a stage where the aerosol-generating segment is already being formed but the compaction of the aerosol-generating substrate has not yet reached its final state, and thus the splitting of the easily flowing material.

[0031] The dispensing opening may be located within the flow of the aerosol-generating substrate. This allows the additive to be dispersed within the aerosol-generating substrate. The additive may be stored between the matrix materials and may be impregnated by the matrix materials. The amount of the additive may be selected such that the additive does not reach the wrapper. Thus, contamination of the wrapper can be prevented.

[0032] The dispensing opening may be located laterally centrally in the converging device. Thus, the additive can be injected at a central lateral position. It may be beneficial to distribute the additive along the central vertical axis but above the central longitudinal axis of the converging device or the segment being formed, since the additive may seep downwards within the aerosol-generating substrate due to gravity.

[0033] The dispensing opening may be located vertically centrally in the separator. Thus, the additive can spread equally from this central point in all directions of the aerosol-generating segment being formed. This may allow the use of diffusion forces and capillary forces in the segment of the aerosol-generating substrate that has been at least partially formed.

[0034] The dispensing opening is positioned along the central transverse axis of the segment being formed. Thus, the additive can spread equally upwards and downwards within the aerosol-generating substrate.

[0035] The dispensing opening may be located adjacent to the central longitudinal axis of the segment being formed. This may facilitate the deposition of the additive near or at the central longitudinal axis. This may prevent the additive from contacting the wrapper and causing contamination of the wrapper. In order to deposit the additive near the central longitudinal axis, it may be considered that the additive may spread within the aerosol-generating substrate due to gravity or due to diffusion or both. Thus, the additive may be dispensed slightly above the central longitudinal axis.

[0036] The dispensing direction of the additive relative to the conveying direction can be between -45 degrees and 45 degrees, preferably between -10 degrees and 10 degrees, and ideally 0 degrees. The angles are measured respectively from the central longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating segment being formed to the upper or lower side direction. This can prevent the dispensing openings from being clogged with the aerosol-generating substrate because the dispensing openings face at least partially downstream.

[0037] The dispensing openings can be adapted to dispense the additive mainly in the conveying direction. This can prevent the dispensing openings from being clogged by the aerosol-generating substrate. In addition, this can ensure that the additive is dispensed at a clearly defined position that is substantially maintained during the additional production process. The dispensing openings can face downstream.

[0038] The dispensing openings can be adapted to dispense the additive mainly perpendicular to the conveying direction. This can support the additive being carried away by the flow of the aerosol-generating substrate. This can be beneficial when dispensing a small amount of additive. It can be even more beneficial when the additive is dispensed as timely separated droplets. In addition, it is easier to manufacture the tubes or channels leading to the dispensing openings.

[0039] The dispensing direction of the additive relative to the conveying direction can be greater than 45 degrees and less than 135 degrees. This can support the additive being carried away by the flow of the aerosol-generating substrate.

[0040] The dispensing openings can have a diameter between 0.7 mm and 1.3 mm. This range can allow the application of a wide range of additive fluid viscosities and a wide range of machine speeds. In the case of using an additive with a higher fluid viscosity, a larger diameter can be selected to allow a reduction in the pressure exerted by the pump system. In the case of setting a higher machine speed, a larger diameter can also be selected to allow a reduction in the pressure exerted by the pump system.

[0041] The dispensing openings can have a diameter between 0.7 mm and 0.9 mm. This can be wide enough to dispense the additive and can correspond to the width of the separator and the gap in the flow of the aerosol-generating substrate.

[0042] The dispensing openings can be provided at the downstream end of the separator. This can enable the additive to be dispensed into the gap in the flow of the aerosol-generating substrate separated by the separator. Subsequently, the flow can be closed again with the additive included.

[0043] The dispensing openings can be provided on the lower side of the separator. This can enable the additive to be directly dispensed onto the aerosol-generating substrate on the lower side of the gap generated by the separator. The lower side of the separator can be arranged adjacent to the central longitudinal axis of the segment being formed or can coincide with the central longitudinal axis. This can support the aerosol-generating substrate in accelerating the absorption of the additive.

[0044] The dispensing opening can be integrated in the septum. This can allow a tube or channel to be formed integrally within the septum. This can simplify the manufacture of the device. In addition, it simplifies providing a dispensing opening flush with one side of the septum.

[0045] The dispensing opening can be located adjacent to the downstream end of the septum. This can enable the additive to be dispensed into the already formed gap in the flow of the aerosol - forming substrate. The dispensing opening can be the end of a tube that is separate from the septum and leads to the downstream end of the septum. However, the dispensing opening can also be arranged in the lower side of the septum, adjacent to the vertical downstream end of the septum.

[0046] The dispensing opening can be located at the same lateral position as the septum. This can enable the additive to be dispensed at a central position. In addition, this can enable the additive to be dispensed at the central position of the gap in the aerosol - forming substrate. The dispensing opening can be the end of a tube located adjacent to the downstream end of the septum.

[0047] The dispensing opening can be flush with the lower side of the septum. This can enable the additive to be dispensed onto the aerosol - forming substrate representing the lower side of the gap formed by the septum. The lower side of the septum can be adjacent to the central longitudinal axis of the segment of the aerosol - forming substrate being formed. Thus, the dispensing opening can be the end of a tube extending from the upper part of the converging device until the lower side of the septum.

[0048] The dispensing opening can be flush with the downstream end of the septum. This can simplify the manufacture of the septum as the dispensing opening can be formed as a hole in the septum. The additive can be dispensed directly at the downstream end where the die gap of the separated aerosol - forming substrate completely exits.

[0049] The lower side of the septum can be substantially horizontal. This can provide the possibility of arranging the dispensing opening in the lower side and dispensing the additive directly onto the passing flow of the aerosol - forming substrate. Thus, the risk of clogging the dispensing opening can be reduced. The lower side of the septum can be parallel to the conveying direction. The lower side of the septum can be parallel to the central longitudinal axis.

[0050] The dispensing opening can be positioned with an offset relative to the lower side of the septum. This can allow the additive to be dispensed at a distance from the passing aerosol - forming substrate. Thus, the additive can be dispensed as droplets. In addition, direct contact between the aerosol - forming substrate and the dispensing opening can be prevented and the risk of clogging the dispensing opening can be reduced.

[0051] The dispensing opening can be located adjacent to the lower side of the septum. This can allow the additive to be dispensed near the lower side of the gap generated in the aerosol - forming substrate, but the aerosol - forming substrate does not directly contact the dispensing opening.

[0052] The dispensing opening can be positioned to have an offset between 0.4 mm and 0.6 mm relative to the lower side of the separator. This can prevent the dispensing opening from being blocked by the aerosol - forming substrate.

[0053] The center of the dispensing opening can be positioned at a distance between 0.6 mm and 1.0 mm from the lateral side of the separator. This can allow for a correspondingly thin separator and the lateral side walls of the dispensing opening.

[0054] Two or more dispensing openings can be arranged on the separator. There can be dispensing openings arranged on two or more of the downstream end, upstream end, and lower side of the separator. This can allow for an increase in the amount of additive absorbed by the aerosol - forming substrate. This can provide an increased time range during which the additive can be absorbed by the aerosol - forming substrate.

[0055] The dispensing opening can be provided on a tube. This allows the dispensing opening to be positioned separately from the separator. Additionally, the tube can be replaceable and tubes with different diameters can be selected.

[0056] The center of the dispensing opening can be positioned to have an offset between 200% and 400% of the diameter of the aerosol - forming segment relative to the lower side of the separator. This can prevent the dispensing opening or the associated tube or both from being deformed or damaged.

[0057] The tube can be integrally formed or embedded within the separator. This can provide a space - saving way to direct the additive into the flow of the aerosol - forming substrate. Additionally, the position of the dispensing opening can be separated from the separator.

[0058] The tube can have an end portion that extends downstream of the separator. This can enable the additive to be dispensed in close contact with the flow of the aerosol - forming substrate. Thus, the dispensing opening can be positioned where the flow of the aerosol - forming substrate is closed again.

[0059] The tube can be arranged adjacent to the downstream end of the separator. This can be a space - saving position and can prevent the tube from interfering with the flow of the aerosol - forming substrate.

[0060] The tube can have an end portion that is inclined relative to the conveying direction. This can enhance the absorption of the additive by the flow of the aerosol - forming substrate while preventing the dispensing opening from being blocked by the aerosol - forming substrate.

[0061] The tube can have an end portion that is substantially parallel to the conveying direction. This can prevent the dispensing opening from being blocked.

[0062] The end portion of the tube can be arranged separately from the separator. This can allow for an alternative position to be selected for the dispensing opening. The end portion can have a length such that the dispensing opening is located at a position where the flow of the aerosol - forming substrate has partially converged again.

[0063] The end portion of the tube can extend within the longitudinally elongated portion of the separator. This can provide additional stability to the tube while enabling the dispensing opening to be positioned at a distance from the rest of the main part of the separator.

[0064] The outer diameter of the tube can be equal to the width of the separator. This can prevent the tube from additionally interfering with the flow of the aerosol - forming substrate. The width of the tube and the width of the separator can be aligned and selected according to the amount of additive inserted.

[0065] The wall of the converging device facing the aerosol - forming substrate can be at least partially concave. This shape can be applied to the aerosol - forming substrate to form strip - shaped aerosol - forming segments. The separator can be at least partially arranged in the concave portion of the wall. Thus, the separation and strip - forming of the flow of the aerosol - forming substrate can occur simultaneously.

[0066] The width of the converging device can be at least partially reduced in the conveying direction. This can support the formation of segments and converge the aerosol - forming substrate.

[0067] The height of the side walls of the converging device can be at least partially reduced in the conveying direction. This can allow the convergence of the aerosol - forming substrate to be supported at the upstream part of the converging device and a bend to be applied on the more downstream part.

[0068] The device can further include a vacuum conveyor for transporting the aerosol - forming substrate from a reservoir to a wrapper. The aerosol - forming substrate can be cut - filler. The cut - filler can include tobacco material. At the downstream end of the vacuum conveyor or at the position where the vacuum is no longer applied, the cut - filler can be transferred onto the wrapper on a conveying device that transports the wrapper through the converging device. The cut - filler can be conveyed at the lower side of the belt of the vacuum conveyor and can fall onto the wrapper where the vacuum is no longer applied.

[0069] The device can further include a wrapper supply device. The wrappers can be continuously supplied from a reel.

[0070] The device can further include an adhesive application device for setting an adhesive on the free end of the wrapper. This can allow the aerosol - forming segment to be closed by overlapping the free end of the wrapper with another part of the wrapper of the aerosol - forming segment.

[0071] The device can further include a packaging device to wrap the wrapper to form an aerosol - forming segment. The packaging device can enclose the aerosol - forming segment. The packaging device can push the free end of the wrapper onto another part of the aerosol - forming segment. An additive may have been previously applied to that free end.

[0072] The device may also include a heating element to create an adhesive bond over the overlapping area of the wrapper. Heating may dry or harden the adhesive or both dry and harden it. This may establish a seam that keeps the aerosol - forming substrate enclosed by the wrapper. The adhesive bond may be waterproof.

[0073] The device may also include a cutting device to cut the aerosol - forming segments. This may provide aerosol - forming segments of a specified length from a continuous aerosol - forming segment formed by the converging device.

[0074] The device may also include a heating unit for heating a heating portion of the device, wherein the heating portion may be in contact with an additive. This may improve the handling of the additive. This may reduce the viscosity of the additive. This may change the aggregation state of the additive. The heating portion may be the converging device. The heating portion may be a separator. The heating portion may be a tube or a channel leading to a dispensing opening. The heating unit may heat the additive.

[0075] The heating unit may be adapted to heat the heating portion to any temperature between 15 degrees Celsius and 70 degrees Celsius, particularly between 25 degrees Celsius and 70 degrees Celsius. The heating unit may be adapted to heat the heating portion to any temperature between 15 degrees Celsius and 45 degrees Celsius or between 25 degrees Celsius and 45 degrees Celsius. The heating unit may be adapted to heat the heating portion to any temperature between 45 degrees Celsius and 75 degrees Celsius. This may improve the processability of the additive. An additive having a crystalline aggregation state at about 20 degrees Celsius (at ambient room temperature) may change to a liquid aggregation state at a higher temperature. This may facilitate the handling of flavors. This may facilitate the handling of additives such as menthol, which has a crystalline aggregation state at ambient room temperature.

[0076] According to a second aspect of the invention, there is provided a method for producing aerosol - forming segments comprising an aerosol - forming substrate. The method comprises the steps of: conveying a wrapper having an aerosol - forming substrate disposed thereon along a conveying direction through a converging device; at least partially separating the aerosol - forming substrate within the converging device by a separator; and dispensing an additive into the at least partially separated aerosol - forming substrate.

[0077] This enables the deposition of the additive into the aerosol - forming substrate at a clearly defined location. The aerosol - forming substrate can be separated when it has at least partially taken on the shape of the aerosol - forming segment to be formed. The aerosol - forming segment being formed can be bar - shaped. However, the wrapper can still be opened on one side, preferably on the upper side, so that the separator can extend into the stream of the aerosol - forming substrate. However, when the separator is present in the stream, the aerosol - forming substrate has only very limited space to evade to the side. Thus, when the aerosol - forming substrate can no longer move freely, the additive can also be dispensed into the stream of the aerosol - forming substrate. Therefore, dislocation of the additive into the wrapper can be prevented.

[0078] The separating and dispensing steps can be performed simultaneously with the conveying step. This enables a continuous production process. Additionally, when the aerosol - forming substrate is currently being conveyed along the separator and a gap is formed downstream of the separator, the additive can be dispensed into the aerosol - forming substrate.

[0079] The conveying step can include converging the aerosol - forming substrate. This can construct at least a part of the final shape of the aerosol - forming segment. It can provide a semi - cylinder into which the separator arrives and separates the aerosol - forming substrate.

[0080] The conveying step can include at least partially wrapping the wrapper around the aerosol - forming substrate. This can form the lower half of the final shape of the aerosol - forming segment. In the case where the final shape of the aerosol - forming segment will be bar - shaped, this can form the lower half of a cylinder.

[0081] The wrapper can wrap around the aerosol - forming substrate at an angle of at least 90 degrees, preferably at least 140 degrees. This can provide the lower half of the shape of the final aerosol - forming segment.

[0082] When the wrapper is at least partially wrapped around the aerosol - forming substrate, the separating step can be performed. This can provide an outer boundary for the aerosol - forming substrate so that it can be prevented from evading to the side when the separator splits the stream.

[0083] The dispensing step can be performed within a converging device. This can provide at least a part of the external shape of the aerosol - forming segment to be formed so that the additive can be added at a clearly defined location within the stream.

[0084] The additive can be dispensed mainly around and at the central longitudinal axis of the aerosol - forming substrate. Thus, the additive can diffuse equally from the central point into the aerosol - forming substrate according to the amount of additive added.

[0085] The aerosol - forming substrate can be conveyed to the wrapper by a vacuum conveyor. The aerosol - forming substrate can fall from the vacuum conveyor onto the wrapper at the end of the vacuum conveyor or in an area where no vacuum is applied.

[0086] An adhesive can be applied to the free end of the wrapper. This can allow the wrapper to remain closed when the wrapper completely encloses the aerosol - forming substrate.

[0087] The wrapper can be wrapped around the aerosol - forming substrate to form a strip. This can keep the aerosol - forming substrate stable within the wrapper and can provide a shape preferred by consumers.

[0088] The overlapping area of the wrapper can be heated by a heating element to produce an adhesive bond. This can provide a stable lid for the aerosol - forming substrate.

[0089] According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a use of a separator in the form of a blade for applying an additive within an aerosol - forming substrate. The blade can have a relatively small width compared to the width of the flow of the aerosol - forming substrate. However, the blade can create a gap wide enough to centrally insert the additive into the flow of the aerosol - forming substrate.

[0090] The device according to the first aspect of the present invention in any of its embodiments can be used according to the method of the second aspect of the present invention in any of its embodiments. The method according to the second aspect of the present invention can be carried out in any of its embodiments by using the device according to the first aspect of the present invention in any of its embodiments. The use of the separator in the form of a blade according to the third aspect of the present invention can be carried out in any of its embodiments by the device according to the first aspect of the present invention, or by the method steps of using the method according to the second aspect of the present invention in any of its embodiments.

[0091] The present invention is defined in the claims. However, a non - exhaustive list of non - limiting examples is provided below. Any one or more features of these examples can be combined with any one or more features of another example, embodiment, or aspect described herein.

[0092] Example Ex1: A device for an aerosol - forming segment of an aerosol - generating article, the device comprising:

[0093] Conveyor means configured to convey a wrapper having an aerosol - forming substrate deposited thereon in a conveying direction;

[0094] Converging means configured to converge the wrapper having the aerosol - forming substrate;

[0095] Wherein the converging device includes a separator that protrudes into the aerosol - generating substrate to at least partially separate the aerosol - generating substrate;

[0096] Wherein the converging device includes a dispensing opening to dispense an additive into the aerosol - generating substrate.

[0097] Example Ex2: The device according to Example Ex1, wherein the converging device is adapted to converge the package having the aerosol - generating substrate into a strip.

[0098] Example Ex3: The device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex2, wherein the aerosol - generating substrate is a loose cut - filler.

[0099] Example Ex4: The device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex3, wherein the separator is substantially planar, and its main extension is on the longitudinal axis of the converging device along the conveying direction and on the vertical axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

[0100] Example Ex5: The device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex4, wherein the separator extends along the conveying direction and has at least a locally gradually increasing height along the conveying direction.

[0101] Example Ex6: The device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex5, wherein the separator has its maximum height in the last third of its extension along the conveying direction.

[0102] Example Ex7: The device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex6, wherein the height of the separator increases continuously at least partially along the conveying direction.

[0103] Example Ex8: The device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex7, wherein at least the upstream half of the separator is inclined at an angle less than 20 degrees with respect to the conveying direction.

[0104] Example Ex9: The device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex8, wherein the separator has a substantially triangular shape.

[0105] Example Ex10: The device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex9, wherein the separator includes a downstream portion having a lower height than the upstream portion of the separator.

[0106] Example Ex11: The device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex10, wherein the height of the separator is constant at least in a part of the separator.

[0107] Example Ex12: The device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex11, wherein the separator has a varying width.

[0108] Example Ex13: The device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex12, wherein the width of the separator increases at least along the conveying direction in a part of the separator.

[0109] Example Ex14: The device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex13, wherein the separator is integrally formed with the converging device.

[0110] Example Ex15: The device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex14, wherein the separator has a height between 2.5 mm and 4.5 mm.

[0111] Example Ex16: The device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex15, wherein the separator has a height between 3.0 and 4.0 mm.

[0112] Example Ex17: The device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex16, wherein the separator has a height between 40% and 70% of the aerosol generating segment diameter.

[0113] Example Ex18: The device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex17, wherein the separator has a width between 1.0 mm and 2.0 mm.

[0114] Example Ex19: The device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex18, wherein the separator has a width of 1.5 mm.

[0115] Example Ex20: The device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex19, wherein the separator has a width between 150% and 400% of the dispensing opening.

[0116] Example Ex21: The device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex20, wherein the separator has a length between 15 mm and 25 mm.

[0117] Example Ex22: The device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex21, wherein the separator is at least partially formed of metal.

[0118] Example Ex23: The device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex22, wherein the separator is coated with a friction reducing material.

[0119] Example Ex24: The device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex23, wherein the separator is arranged along the central lateral position of the converging device.

[0120] Example Ex25: The device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex24, wherein the separator extends at least from the wall of the converging device facing the aerosol-generating substrate to one third of the thickness of the aerosol-generating substrate.

[0121] Example Ex26: The device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex25, wherein the separator is arranged at the inlet end of the converging device.

[0122] Example Ex27: The device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex26, wherein the dispensing opening is located within the flow of the aerosol-generating substrate.

[0123] Example Ex28: The device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex27, wherein the dispensing opening is located at the lateral center in the converging device.

[0124] Example Ex29: The device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex28, wherein the dispensing opening is located at the central longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating segment being formed.

[0125] Example Ex30: The device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex29, wherein the dispensing opening is located at the vertical center of the separator.

[0126] Example Ex31: The device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex30, wherein the dispensing opening is positioned adjacent to the central longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating segment being formed.

[0127] Example Ex32: The device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex31, wherein the dispensing direction of the additive relative to the conveying direction is between -45 degrees and 45 degrees, preferably between -10 degrees and 10 degrees.

[0128] Example Ex33: The device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex32, wherein the dispensing opening is adapted to dispense the additive mainly in the conveying direction.

[0129] Example Ex34: The device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex33, wherein the dispensing opening is adapted to dispense the additive mainly perpendicular to the conveying direction.

[0130] Example Ex35: The device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex34, wherein the dispensing direction of the additive relative to the conveying direction is greater than 45 degrees and less than 135 degrees.

[0131] Example Ex36: The device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex35, wherein the dispensing opening has a diameter between 0.7 mm and 1.3 mm.

[0132] Example Ex37: The device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex36, wherein the dispensing opening has a diameter between 0.7 mm and 0.9 mm.

[0133] Example Ex38: The device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex37, wherein the dispensing opening is provided at the downstream end of the separator.

[0134] Example Ex39: The device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex38, wherein the dispensing opening is provided at the lower side of the separator.

[0135] Example Ex40: The device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex39, wherein the dispensing opening is integrated in the separator.

[0136] Example Ex41: The device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex40, wherein the dispensing opening is positioned adjacent to the downstream end of the separator.

[0137] Example Ex42: The device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex41, wherein the dispensing opening is located at the same lateral position as the separator.

[0138] Example Ex43: The device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex42, wherein the dispensing opening is flush with the lower side of the separator.

[0139] Example Ex44: The device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex43, wherein the dispensing opening is flush with the downstream end of the separator.

[0140] Example Ex45: The device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex44, wherein the lower side of the separator is substantially horizontal.

[0141] Example Ex46: The device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex45, wherein the dispensing opening is positioned with an offset relative to the lower side of the separator.

[0142] Example Ex47: The device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex46, wherein the dispensing opening is positioned adjacent to the lower side of the separator.

[0143] Example Ex48: The device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex47, wherein the dispensing opening is positioned to have an offset between 0.4 mm and 0.6 mm relative to the lower side of the separator.

[0144] Example Ex49: The device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex48, wherein the center of the dispensing opening is positioned at a distance between 0.6 mm and 1.0 mm from the lateral side of the separator.

[0145] Example Ex50: The device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex49, wherein two or more dispensing openings are arranged on the separator.

[0146] Example Ex51: The device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex50, wherein the dispensing opening is provided on a tube.

[0147] Example Ex52: The device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex51, wherein the center of the dispensing opening is positioned to have an offset between 200% and 400% of the diameter of the aerosol generating segment relative to the lower side of the separator.

[0148] Example Ex53: The device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex52, wherein the tube is integrally formed or embedded within the separator.

[0149] Example Ex54: The device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex53, wherein the tube has an end portion that extends downstream of the separator.

[0150] Example Ex55: The device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex54, wherein the tube is arranged adjacent to the downstream end of the separator.

[0151] Example Ex56: The device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex55, wherein the tube has an end portion that is inclined relative to the conveying direction.

[0152] Example Ex57: The device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex56, wherein the tube has an end portion that is substantially parallel to the conveying direction.

[0153] Example Ex58: The device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex57, wherein the end portion of the tube is arranged separately from the separator.

[0154] Example Ex59: The device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex58, wherein the end portion of the tube extends within the longitudinally elongated portion of the separator.

[0155] Example Ex60: The device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex59, wherein the outer diameter of the tube is equal to the width of the separator.

[0156] Example Ex61: The device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex60, wherein the wall of the converging device facing the aerosol - generating substrate is at least partially concave.

[0157] Example Ex62: The device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex61, wherein the width of the converging device is at least partially reduced in the conveying direction.

[0158] Example Ex63: The device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex62, wherein the height of the side wall of the converging device is at least partially reduced in the conveying direction.

[0159] Example Ex64: The device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex63, wherein the device further comprises a vacuum conveyor for conveying the aerosol - generating substrate from a reservoir to the package.

[0160] Example Ex65: The device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex64, wherein the device further comprises a package supply device.

[0161] Example Ex66: The device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex65, wherein the device further comprises an adhesive application device for applying an adhesive to a free end of the package.

[0162] Example Ex67: The device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex66, wherein the device further comprises a packaging device for wrapping the package to form the aerosol - generating segment.

[0163] Example Ex68: The device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex67, wherein the device further comprises a heating element to create an adhesive connection on an overlapping area of the package.

[0164] Example Ex69: The device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex68, wherein the device further comprises a cutting device for cutting the aerosol - generating segment.

[0165] Example Ex70: A method for producing an aerosol - generating segment comprising an aerosol - generating substrate, the method comprising the steps of:

[0166] Conveying a package having an aerosol - generating substrate disposed thereon through a converging device in a conveying direction;

[0167] Within the converging device, the aerosol - generating substrate is at least partially separated by a separator.

[0168] An additive is dispensed into the at least partially separated aerosol - generating substrate.

[0169] Example Ex71: The method according to Example Ex70, wherein the steps of separation and dispensing are performed simultaneously with the conveying step.

[0170] Example Ex72: The method according to any one of Examples Ex70 to Ex71, wherein the conveying step includes converging the aerosol - generating substrate.

[0171] Example Ex73: The method according to any one of Examples Ex70 to Ex72, wherein the conveying step includes at least partially wrapping the packaging around the aerosol - generating substrate.

[0172] Example Ex74: The method according to any one of Examples Ex70 to Ex74, wherein the packaging wraps around the aerosol - generating substrate at an angle of at least 90 degrees, preferably at least 140 degrees.

[0173] Example Ex75: The method according to any one of Examples Ex70 to Ex74, wherein the separation step is performed when the packaging at least partially wraps around the aerosol - generating substrate.

[0174] Example Ex76: The method according to any one of Examples Ex70 to Ex75, wherein the dispensing step is performed within the converging device.

[0175] Example Ex77: The method according to any one of Examples Ex70 to Ex76, wherein the additive is mainly dispensed around and at the central longitudinal axis of the aerosol - generating substrate.

[0176] Example Ex78: The method according to any one of Examples Ex70 to Ex77, wherein the aerosol - generating substrate is conveyed onto the packaging by a vacuum conveyor.

[0177] Example Ex79: The method according to any one of Examples Ex70 to Ex78, wherein an adhesive is applied to the free end of the packaging.

[0178] Example Ex80: The method according to any one of Examples Ex70 to Ex79, wherein the packaging wraps around the aerosol - generating substrate to form a strip.

[0179] Example Ex81: The method according to any one of Examples Ex70 to Ex80, wherein the overlapping region of the packaging is heated by a heating element to produce an adhesive bond.

[0180] Example Ex82: Use of a separator in the form of a blade for applying an additive within an aerosol - generating substrate. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0181] Several examples will now be further described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0182] Figure 1 A schematic view of an apparatus for producing an aerosol - generating segment is shown.

[0183] Figure 2 The converging device is shown in a perspective view as seen from below.

[0184] Figure 3 Shows Figure 1 a cross - sectional view of the apparatus.

[0185] Figure 4 A perspective side view of the converging device is shown.

[0186] Figure 5 The converging device is shown in a view as seen from below.

[0187] Figure 6 Shows a cross - sectional side view of the converging device cut along the intermediate axis as shown in Figure 5 ...

[0188] Figure 7 Shows Figures 1 to 6 an enlarged cross - sectional side view of the separator of the first embodiment.

[0189] Figure 8 An enlarged cross - sectional side view of the separator of the second embodiment is shown.

[0190] Figure 9 An enlarged cross - sectional side view of the separator of the third embodiment is shown.

[0191] Figure 10 An enlarged cross - sectional side view of the separator of the fourth embodiment is shown.

[0192] Figure 11 An enlarged cross - sectional side view of the separator of the fifth embodiment is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0193] Figure 1An apparatus 1 for producing an aerosol-generating segment 3 of an aerosol-generating article is shown. The apparatus 1 includes a conveyor device 5 having an upper belt surface 7 with a belt 9. The upper belt surface 7 conveys a wrapper 11 in a conveying direction 100 through a converging device 13. The wrapper 11 is supplied by a wrapper supply device 15 in the form of a reel. A vacuum conveyor 17 conveys an aerosol-generating substrate 21 from a reservoir to the wrapper 11 supported by the conveyor device 5 by negative pressure at its lower extension 19. The aerosol-generating substrate 21 falls onto the wrapper 11 at the downstream end of the vacuum conveyor 17 where the vacuum is no longer applied. The wrapper 11 onto which the aerosol-generating substrate 21 is deposited is conveyed through the converging device 13 to form a strip-shaped aerosol-generating segment 3. The converging device 13 includes a separator 23 that projects into the flow of the aerosol-generating substrate 21 to separate the aerosol-generating substrate 21 so that an additive can be dispensed into the interior of the aerosol-generating substrate 21. The converging device 13 and the conveyor device 5 together at least partially form the strip-shaped aerosol-generating segment 3. The apparatus 1 further includes an adhesive application device 25 for setting an adhesive onto the free end of the wrapper 11. The adhesive can also be applied to the wrapper 11 before the wrapper 11 reaches the conveyor device 5. The apparatus 1 further includes a packaging device 27 to completely enclose the wrapper 11 to form the aerosol-generating segment 3. This can include pressing the free end of the wrapper 11 including the adhesive onto the aerosol-generating segment 3. The apparatus 1 further includes a heating element 29 to create an adhesive connection over the overlapping area of the wrapper 11. This can include hardening of the adhesive in the form of glue to establish a stable seam. The apparatus 1 further includes a cutting device 31 to cut the aerosol-generating segment 3 into strips of a predetermined length. The aerosol-generating segment 3 has a diameter 601 at the end of this production process.

[0194] Figure 2 The converging device 13 is shown in a perspective view looking from below. The separator 23 is provided at a lower wall 33 of the converging device 13. The wall 33 faces the aerosol-generating substrate 21. The separator 23 includes a downstream end 35 at which a dispensing opening 37 is located. An additive is dispensed through the dispensing opening 37 into the flow of the aerosol-generating substrate 21. The additive passes through an outer tube 39 to a tube or channel that extends at least partially through the converging device 13 to the dispensing opening 37. The aerosol-generating substrate 21 flows in the conveying direction 100 and is separated by the separator 23 such that a gap is formed in the aerosol-generating substrate 21 downstream of the downstream end 35 of the separator. The wall 33 of the converging device 13 facing the aerosol-generating substrate is at least partially concave and decreases in width in the conveying direction 100 to apply a strip shape to the aerosol-generating substrate 21. Additionally, as Figure 3As described, the conveyor 5 provides corresponding strip shapes to the package 11 and the aerosol - generating substrate 21 from below. The side walls 41 of the converging device 13 guide the aerosol - generating substrate 21 and decrease in height along the conveying direction 100.

[0195] The separator 23 also includes an upstream end 43 and a lower side 45. In Figure 2 the illustrated embodiment, the lower side 45 of the separator 23 has a first portion 47 that is inclined relative to the conveying direction 100 or the central longitudinal axis of the aerosol - generating segment 3 being formed. Additionally, the lower side 45 of the separator 23 has a second portion 49 that remains parallel to the conveying direction 100, and the separator 23 thus has a constant height along the second portion 49.

[0196] Figure 3 Shown along Figure 1 the line III - III in Figure 1 is a cross - sectional view of the device 1. The separator 23 separates the flow of the aerosol - generating substrate 21. At the same time, the converging device 13 shapes the aerosol - generating substrate 21 into a strip shape from above by the inner wall 33 and the inner side of the side walls 41. The upper belt surface 7 of the conveyor device 5 gives the package 11 and the aerosol - generating substrate 21 the corresponding form of the lower half of a cylinder or a strip. The packaging device 27 closes the strip - shaped aerosol - generating segment 3 downstream of the converging device 13 by placing the free ends 51 of the package 11 on each other, where at least one free end 51 is provided with an adhesive. The aerosol - generating substrate 21 has a height or thickness 602 measured from the inner wall 33 of the converging device 13 on the upper side to the package 11 located on the upper belt surface 7 of the conveyor device 5 on the lower side.

[0197] Figure 4 Shown is a perspective side view of the converging device 13. The separator 23 is substantially planar, and its main extension is along the longitudinal axis 200 of the converging device 13 and along the vertical axis 300 of the converging device 13. The longitudinal axis 200 is parallel to the conveying direction 100. The vertical axis 300 is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 200. The width of the separator 23 extends along a transverse axis 400 that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 200 and the vertical axis 300. The longitudinal axis 200 can be the central longitudinal axis of the converging device 13, and can be the central longitudinal axis of the aerosol - generating segment 3 being formed, and can be the central longitudinal axis of the aerosol - generating substrate 21.

[0198] Figure 5The converging device 13 is shown in a view looking from below. The separator 23 extends in the direction of the longitudinal axis 200 of the converging device 13 from the upstream end 43 of the separator to the downstream end 35 of the separator. The separator has a length 701 along the longitudinal axis 200 and a width 702 along the transverse axis 400. The upstream end 43 of the separator 23 coincides with the upstream end 53 of the converging device 13. The upstream end 53 is the inlet end of the converging device 13. The concave wall 33 of the converging device 13 extends until the downstream end 55 of the converging device 13.

[0199] Figure 6 A cross-sectional side view of the converging device 13 in the orientation shown in Figure 5 is shown taken along the intermediate axis VI-VI as Figure 1 shown. The inner tube 57 is connected to the outer tube 39 as Figure 4 visible and delivers the additive to the dispensing opening 37. The external upper structure of the converging device 13 adjacent to the outer tube 39 is omitted in this figure. The inner tube 57 extends through the separator 23 and the dispensing opening 37 is arranged in the downstream end 35 of the separator 23 facing in the downstream direction.

[0200] Figure 7 A magnified cross-sectional side view of the separator 23 in Figure 6 is shown, that is, according to Figures 1 to 6 the first embodiment. The separator 23 has a length 701 along the conveying direction 100 and a height 703 measured at the downstream end 35 of the separator 23. The lower side 45 of the separator 23 has a first part 47 that is inclined with respect to the conveying direction 100 and thus has an increasing height 703 along the conveying direction 100. The lower side 45 of the separator 23 also has a second part 49 that is parallel to the conveying direction 100 and thus has a constant height 703. The inclined first part 47 of the lower side 45 is inclined at an angle 901 with respect to the conveying direction 100 or the longitudinal axis 200 of the converging device 13, where the conveying direction 100 and the longitudinal axis 200 can be horizontal. The end portion 59 of the inner tube 57 is parallel to the conveying direction 100 and the dispensing opening 37 faces in the downstream direction. The dispensing opening 37 is positioned with an offset with respect to the second part 49 of the lower side 45.

[0201] Figure 8 A magnified cross-sectional side view of the separator 23 of the second embodiment is shown. The tube 57 and its end portion 59 extend within the separator 23 until the dispensing opening 37, where the dispensing opening 37 is located in the lower side 45 of the separator. The tube 57 is oriented substantially perpendicular to the conveying direction 100. The additive 61 is dispensed perpendicular to the conveying direction 100. Thus, the additive 61 is dispensed in the dispensing direction 800, where the dispensing direction 800 is inclined at an angle 902 of substantially 90 degrees with respect to the conveying direction 100. InFigure 7 and Figures 9 to 11 In the embodiment of Figures 9 to 11 , the angle 902 is substantially zero degrees. The lower side 45 of the separator 23 includes an inclined first part 47 and a horizontal second part 49. Additionally, the downstream part 63 of the separator 23 forms a third part of the lower side 45 of the separator 23. The downstream part 63 includes a height 703 that is lower than the second part 49 of the lower side 45, where the second part 49 represents a more upstream part.

[0202] Figure 9 Fig. shows an enlarged cross-sectional side view of the separator 23 of the third embodiment. The separator 23 includes a lower side 45 having a first inclined part 47, a second horizontal part 49, and a downstream part 63 representing the third part 63. The tube 57 has an end part 59 that extends in the downstream direction 100. The end part 59 is surrounded by the downstream part 63 of the separator 23. The downstream part 63 is a longitudinally elongated part of the separator 23. The downstream part 63 has a height that is lower compared to the height 703 of the downstream end 35.

[0203] Figure 10 Fig. shows an enlarged cross-sectional side view of the separator 23 of the fourth embodiment. The tube 57 is arranged adjacent to the downstream end 35 of the separator 23 and includes an end part 59 that extends downstream of the separator 23. A part of the tube 57 extends in the vertical direction within the converging device 13. The end part 59 extends in the horizontal direction parallel to the conveying direction 100. The dispensing opening 37 faces the downstream direction.

[0204] Figure 11 Fig. shows an enlarged cross-sectional side view of the separator 23 of the fifth embodiment. The tube 57 extends at least partially within the separator 23 or is at least partially integrally formed with the separator 23. Additionally, the tube 57 has an end part 59 that extends downstream of the separator 23. The end part 59 extends parallel to the conveying direction 100. Compared with Figure 9 the embodiment of Figure 9 , the end part 59 of the tube 57 is not surrounded by the downstream part 63 of the separator 23. Regarding Figure 9 the third embodiment of Figure 9 , the dispensing opening 37, and correspondingly the lower side of the end part 59, has a vertical offset with respect to the lower edge of the second part 49 of the lower side 45. The dispensing opening 37 has a diameter 801. The diameter 801 of the dispensing opening 37 can correspond to the inner diameter of the end part 59 of the tube 57. The dispensing opening 37 has a center 802 as its central axis. The separator has left and right lateral sides 65, each facing opposite directions of the transverse axis 400. The center 802 of the dispensing opening 37 is positioned at a certain distance from one of the lateral sides 65, as Figure 2is visible. This distance can be between 0.6 millimeters and 1.0 millimeters. The end portion 59 of the tube 57 has an outer diameter 803. The horizontally measured outer diameter 803 can be equal to the width 702 of the separator 23. For the end portion 59 and the other portions of the tube 57, the outer diameter 803 can be equal.

[0205] For the purposes of this specification and the appended claims, unless otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing quantities, amounts, percentages, etc. are to be understood as being modified in all instances by the term "about." Also, all ranges include the disclosed maximum and minimum points and include any intermediate ranges that may be specifically recited or may not be recited herein. Thus, in this context, the number A is understood to be A ± 10% A. In this context, the number A can be considered to include values within the general standard error for measurements of the property modified by the number A. In certain instances used in the appended claims, the number A may deviate from the percentage recited above, provided that the amount by which A deviates does not materially affect the basic and novel features of the claimed invention. Also, all ranges include the disclosed maximum and minimum points and include any intermediate ranges that may be specifically recited or may not be recited herein.

Claims

1. An apparatus for an aerosol - generating segment of an aerosol - generating article, the apparatus comprising: a conveyor device configured to convey, in a conveying direction, a package on which an aerosol - generating substrate is deposited; a converging device configured to converge the package having the aerosol - generating substrate; wherein the converging device includes a separator projecting into the aerosol - generating substrate to at least partially separate the aerosol - generating substrate; wherein the converging device includes a dispensing opening for dispensing an additive into the aerosol - generating substrate, wherein the dispensing opening is provided at a downstream end of the separator.

2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the separator has a length between 15 millimeters and 25 millimeters.

3. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein the dispensing opening has a diameter between 0.7 millimeters and 1.3 millimeters.

4. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the separator extends along the conveying direction and has at least a locally gradually increasing height along the conveying direction.

5. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the separator includes a downstream portion having a lower height than an upstream portion of the separator.

6. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the dispensing opening is integrated in the separator.

7. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the dispensing opening is provided at a lower side of the separator.

8. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the dispensing opening is positioned with an offset relative to the lower side of the separator.

9. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the dispensing opening is provided on a tube.

10. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the tube has an end portion extending downstream of the separator.

11. A method for producing an aerosol - generating segment comprising an aerosol - generating substrate, the method comprising the steps of: conveying, in a conveying direction, a package on which an aerosol - generating substrate is provided through a converging device; at least partially separating the aerosol - generating substrate within the converging device by a separator; dispensing an additive into the at least partially separated aerosol - generating substrate through a dispensing opening provided at a downstream end of the separator.

12. The method according to claim 11, wherein the steps of separating and dispensing are performed simultaneously with the conveying step.

13. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 12, wherein the separating step is performed when the package at least partially wraps around the aerosol - generating substrate.

14. Use of a separator in the form of a blade for applying an additive within an aerosol - generating substrate through a dispensing opening provided at a downstream end of the separator.

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