Porous filter

Abstract

The invention relates to a smoking product, in particular to a porous filter which comprises a coating layer extending in the axial direction, a filter body extending in the axial direction is arranged in the coating layer, and the filter body comprises a first supporting section I, a second supporting section I and a third supporting section I; the cross section of the first supporting section I, the cross section of the second supporting section I and the cross section of the third supporting section I are each in a C shape, an opening of the first supporting section I faces the center of the coating layer, and the two ends of the first supporting section I are connected with the second supporting section I and the third supporting section I through a first connecting section and a second connecting section respectively. Openings of the first connecting section and the second connecting section are opposite, and a gap is formed between the bottoms of the first connecting section and the second connecting section; the free end of the second supporting section I and the free end of the third supporting section I are connected or make contact to form a movable first supporting structure, so that the first supporting section I, the second supporting section I, the third supporting section I, the first connecting section and the second connecting section are combined to form an integral channel, the cigarette holder is designed to be of a specific structure, the smoking experience of a user is improved, and meanwhile excessive deformation of the filter is effectively prevented.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to smoking products, and in particular to a porous filter. Background Art

[0002] Typically, cigarettes burn tobacco and generate temperatures that release volatile compounds. The temperature in burning tobacco can reach more than 800 degrees Celsius, and such high temperatures drive off much of the water contained in the smoke evolved from the tobacco. Other aerosol-generating products that heat, rather than burn, an aerosol-forming substrate (e.g., a substrate containing tobacco) are also known in the art. Examples of systems using aerosol-generating products include systems that heat a substrate containing tobacco between 200 and 400 degrees Celsius to produce an aerosol. Regardless of the lower temperature of aerosol formation, compared to combustible smoking articles, the aerosol stream generated by such systems can have a higher perceived temperature than conventional cigarette smoke due to a higher moisture content.

[0003] Typically, aerosol-generating articles comprise a plurality of elements assembled in the form of strips / tubes. The plurality of elements typically comprise an aerosol-forming substrate and an aerosol-cooling element positioned in the strip, downstream of the aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-cooling element may alternatively be referred to as a heat exchanger or a tubular filter element based on its functionality. They are typically positioned at the mouth end of the smoking article to define a cavity at the mouth end. They have many applications, including for conventional tobacco-containing smoking articles and next generation products, such as heat-not-burn (HNB) smoking articles in which tobacco is heated rather than burned. Its primary function is to provide the appearance and feel of a cigarette and also to cool smoke to a temperature acceptable to consumers.

[0004] At present, tubular filter elements include non-hollow tubular filter elements and hollow filter elements (for example, the Chinese invention application with patent application number 201980083579.3 discloses a machine for manufacturing tubular segments for the tobacco industry, which produces a hollow filter). Since the hollow filter element has a smaller suction resistance, the application of hollow tubular filters is more extensive. However, in the existing hollow filter elements, due to the limitations of the industrial preparation process, a large-sized circular through hole is usually formed in the middle of the tubular element. However, due to the lack of structural support components in the middle, the hollow tubular filter element is easily deformed under the action of the user's mouth force, which in turn leads to problems such as difficulty in suction, affecting the user's suction experience.

[0005] Therefore, in order to improve the user's smoking experience, a hollow filter element with better support strength is urgently needed. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The object of the present invention is to provide a porous filter to partially solve or alleviate the above-mentioned technical problems, so as to improve the user's suction experience and prevent the filter from being excessively deformed.

[0007] In order to solve the above-mentioned technical problems, the present invention specifically adopts the following technical solutions:

[0008] A first aspect of the present invention is to provide a porous filter, comprising: an axially extending coating layer, wherein a filter body extending axially is provided in the coating layer, the filter body comprising a first support segment I, a second support segment I and a third support segment I, wherein the cross sections of the first support segment I, the second support segment I and the third support segment I are all C-shaped, the opening of the first support segment I faces the center of the coating layer, and the two ends of the first support segment I are respectively connected to the connecting end of the second support segment I and the connecting end of the third support segment I through a first connecting segment with a U-shaped cross section and a second connecting segment with a U-shaped cross section, the openings of the first connecting segment and the second connecting segment are opposite to each other and there is a gap between the bottoms; the free end of the second support segment I and the free end of the third support segment I are connected or contacted to form a movable first support structure, so that the first support segment I, the second support segment I, the third support segment I, the first connecting segment and the second connecting segment are combined to form an integral channel, and the first support segment I, the second support segment I and the third support segment I each form a triangle at a tangent point with the coating layer;

[0009] When the filter is squeezed under force, the bottoms of the first connecting section and the second connecting section approach each other to form a second supporting structure, and the first supporting structure moves toward the second supporting structure.

[0010] In some embodiments, the filter body also includes a fourth support segment I extending axially, the first end of the cross section of the fourth support segment I abuts against the top of the first support segment I, and the second end extends between the free end of the second support segment I and the free end of the third support segment I, and finally abuts against the inner wall of the coating layer. When the filter is squeezed under force, the free end of the second support segment I and the free end of the third support segment I move along the fourth support segment I toward the direction of the second support structure.

[0011] In some embodiments, both sides of the second end of the cross section of the fourth support segment I extend in a direction close to the second support segment I and the third support segment I, respectively, to form a bearing segment.

[0012] In some embodiments, the curvature of the first support segment I is greater than the curvature of the second support segment I; and / or the curvature of the first support segment I is greater than the curvature of the third support segment I.

[0013] In some embodiments, the second support segment I and the third support segment I are symmetrically arranged.

[0014] In some embodiments, the cross-section of the fourth support segment I is S-shaped or straight.

[0015] In some embodiments, the first connecting segment includes a circular or arc-shaped head, with two ends of the head connected to an arc segment, wherein the curvature of the arc segment is greater than the curvature of the head, and the curvature of the head is less than the curvature of the second supporting segment I. Of course, the curvature of the head is much smaller than the curvature of the first supporting segment I.

[0016] In some embodiments, a gap is left between the outer side walls of the first connecting segment and the second connecting segment and the fourth supporting segment I; under external force, the first connecting segment and the second connecting segment respectively abut against both sides of the fourth supporting segment I.

[0017] In some embodiments, the filter body has a thickness of 0.05 mm to 0.12 mm.

[0018] In some embodiments, the filter body is made of biodegradable filter material.

[0019] The second aspect of the present invention is to provide another porous filter comprising: an axially extending coating layer, wherein a filter body extending axially is arranged in the coating layer, and the filter body comprises a first support segment I, a second support segment I and a third support segment I, wherein the cross-sections of the first support segment I, the second support segment I and the third support segment I are all C-shaped, the opening of the first support segment I is toward the center of the coating layer, and the two ends of the first support segment I are respectively connected to the connecting end of the second support segment I and the connecting end of the third support segment I; the free end of the second support segment I and the free end of the third support segment I are connected or contacted to form a movable first support structure, so that the first support segment I, the second support segment I and the third support segment I are combined to form an integral channel, and the first support segment I, the second support segment I and the third support segment I each form a triangle with the tangent point of the coating layer; when the filter is squeezed under force, the parts of the first support segment I connected to the second support segment I and the third support segment I respectively approach each other to form a second support structure, and the first support structure moves toward the direction of the second support structure.

[0020] In some embodiments, the two ends of the first support segment I are respectively connected to the connecting end of the second support segment I and the connecting end of the third support segment I through a first connecting segment with a U-shaped cross-section and a second connecting segment with a U-shaped cross-section. The openings of the first connecting segment and the second connecting segment are opposite to each other and there is a gap between the bottoms; when the filter is squeezed under force, the bottoms of the first connecting segment and the second connecting segment approach each other to form a second support structure.

[0021] In some embodiments, the filter body also includes a fourth support segment I extending axially, the first end of the cross section of the fourth support segment I abuts against the top of the first support segment I, and the second end extends between the free end of the second support segment I and the free end of the third support segment I, and finally abuts against the inner wall of the coating layer. When the filter is squeezed under force, the free end of the second support segment I and the free end of the third support segment I move along the fourth support segment I toward the direction of the second support structure.

[0022] In some embodiments, both sides of the second end of the cross section of the fourth support segment I extend in a direction close to the second support segment I and the third support segment I, respectively, to form a bearing segment.

[0023] In some embodiments, the curvature of the first support segment I is greater than the curvature of the second support segment I; and / or the curvature of the first support segment I is greater than the curvature of the third support segment I.

[0024] In some embodiments, the second support segment I and the third support segment I are symmetrically arranged.

[0025] In some embodiments, the cross-section of the fourth support segment I is S-shaped or straight.

[0026] In some embodiments, the first connecting segment includes a circular or arc-shaped head, with two ends of the head connected to an arc segment, wherein the curvature of the arc segment is greater than the curvature of the head, and the curvature of the head is less than the curvature of the second supporting segment I. Of course, the curvature of the head is much smaller than the curvature of the first supporting segment I.

[0027] In some embodiments, a gap is left between the outer side walls of the first connecting segment and the second connecting segment and the fourth supporting segment I; under external force, the first connecting segment and the second connecting segment respectively abut against both sides of the fourth supporting segment I.

[0028] The third aspect of the present invention is to provide another porous filter, which includes: a coating layer extending axially, a filter body extending axially is arranged in the coating layer, and the filter body includes at least three arc-shaped support segments, and the at least three arc-shaped support segments include a first support segment I, a second support segment I and a third support segment I, the two ends of the first support segment I are respectively connected to the connecting end of the second support segment I and the connecting end of the third support segment I, the free end of the second support segment I and the free end of the third support segment I are connected or contacted to form a movable first support structure, so that the first support segment I, the second support segment I and the third support segment I are combined to form an integral channel; when the filter is squeezed under force, the first support segment I and the connected parts of the second support segment I and the third support segment I are close to each other to form a second support structure, and the first support structure moves toward the direction of the second support structure.

[0029] In some embodiments, the at least three arc-shaped support segments are distributed along the circumference of the cladding layer.

[0030] In some embodiments, the cross-sections of the first support segment I, the second support segment I, and the third support segment I are all C-shaped, the opening of the first support segment I faces the center of the covering layer, and the two ends of the first support segment I are respectively connected to the connecting end of the second support segment I and the connecting end of the third support segment I through a first connecting segment with a U-shaped cross-section and a second connecting segment with a U-shaped cross-section, the openings of the first connecting segment and the second connecting segment are opposite to each other and there is a gap between the bottoms; and the tangent points of the first support segment I, the second support segment I, and the third support segment I with the covering layer together form a triangle;

[0031] When the filter is squeezed under force, the bottoms of the first connecting section and the second connecting section approach each other to form a second supporting structure, and the first supporting structure moves toward the second supporting structure.

[0032] In some embodiments, the filter body also includes a fourth support segment I extending axially, the first end of the cross section of the fourth support segment I abuts against the top of the first support segment I, and the second end extends between the free end of the second support segment I and the free end of the third support segment I, and finally abuts against the inner wall of the coating layer. When the filter is squeezed under force, the free end of the second support segment I and the free end of the third support segment I move along the fourth support segment I toward the direction of the second support structure.

[0033] In some embodiments, both sides of the second end of the cross section of the fourth support segment I extend in a direction close to the second support segment I and the third support segment I, respectively, to form a bearing segment.

[0034] In some embodiments, the curvature of the first support segment I is greater than the curvature of the second support segment I; and / or the curvature of the first support segment I is greater than the curvature of the third support segment I.

[0035] In some embodiments, the second support segment I and the third support segment I are symmetrically arranged.

[0036] In some embodiments, the cross-section of the fourth support segment I is S-shaped or straight.

[0037] In some embodiments, the first connecting segment includes a circular or arc-shaped head, and the two ends of the head are respectively connected to an arc segment, wherein the curvature of the arc segment is greater than the curvature of the head, and the curvature of the head is less than the curvature of the second supporting segment I.

[0038] In some embodiments, a gap is left between the outer side walls of the first connecting segment and the second connecting segment and the fourth supporting segment I; under external force, the first connecting segment and the second connecting segment respectively abut against both sides of the fourth supporting segment I.

[0039] The fourth aspect of the present invention is to provide a porous filter, which includes: a covering layer extending in the axial direction, a filter body formed by a curled web material is arranged in the covering layer, the filter body includes a first support segment II extending in the axial direction and dividing the covering layer into a first through hole and a second through hole, and a second support segment II and a third support segment II symmetrically arranged on both sides of the first support segment II, the second support segment II and the third support segment II respectively dividing the first through hole and the second through hole into a first sub-channel and a second sub-channel; a plurality of corrugations along the length direction are arranged at equal intervals on the curled web material.

[0040] Among them, the second support segment II and the third support segment II both include: a first convex surface and a second convex surface with a C-shaped cross-section and arranged in the longitudinal direction; a concave surface located between the first convex surface and the second convex surface, used to connect the second end of the bottom of the first convex surface and the first end of the top of the second convex surface, and with a reverse C-shaped cross-section; the two open ends of the first convex surfaces are arranged opposite to each other, and the second ends of the two tops of the first convex surfaces are connected to the first support segment II.

[0041] In some embodiments, the curvature of the concave surface is smaller than the curvature of the second convex surface, and the curvature of the second convex surface is smaller than the curvature of the first convex surface, so that the cross-sections of the two symmetrically arranged second sub-channels are butterfly-shaped.

[0042] In some embodiments, there is a gap between the outer side wall of the concave curved surface and the corresponding supporting curved surface on the first supporting segment II.

[0043] In some embodiments, the cross section of the first support segment II is S-shaped or straight.

[0044] In some embodiments, the first support segment II extends to the second end of the bottom of the second convex surface, and continues to extend along both sides perpendicular to the axial direction of the first support segment II to form a bearing structure located at the bottom of the second convex surface.

[0045] In some embodiments, the second convex surface is provided with a closed section that closes its open end and plays a supporting role.

[0046] In some embodiments, there is a gap between the closed segment and the first supporting segment II.

[0047] In some embodiments, in the same cross-section, the angle between the line connecting the tangent points between the two first convex surfaces located on both sides of the first support segment II and the coating layer and the center of the coating layer is greater than the angle between the line connecting the tangent points between the two second convex surfaces located on both sides of the symmetry axis and the coating layer and the center of the coating layer.

[0048] In some embodiments, the first ends of the two first convex surfaces are smoothly connected, so that in the same cross-section, the two first convex surfaces located on both sides of the first support segment II and the cladding layer are co-tangent to the top of the first support segment II.

[0049] In some embodiments, the filter body is made of a biodegradable filter material; and / or the first support segment II, the second support segment II, and the third support segment II are the curled webs curled to form a multi-layer structure.

[0050] The beneficial effect of the present invention is that: in order to improve the user experience, the filter usually has a certain degree of softness, but if it is designed as a hollow structure, it is bound to lead to insufficient support of the filter, and deformation will occur even with a slight force. If a component with a larger supporting force is directly set inside it, its softness will be sacrificed, resulting in a poor user experience. In view of this, by setting a filter with the above structure, a plurality of support segments are set in the coating layer, and the plurality of support segments form an overall channel, thereby forming a porous structure in the filter, and the connected parts of the support segments form a movable support structure, so that when in use, for example, when the user just bites the filter, the support segment undergoes appropriate micro-deformation, giving the user a certain softness and comfort. At the same time, the deformation of the support segment causes the multiple support structures in the coating layer to approach or abut each other, that is, the support structures in the coating layer are redistributed to form a porous structure with greater support force to prevent excessive deformation.

[0051] The present invention sets a filter with the above-mentioned structure, which sets multiple support segments in the coating layer, for example, including multiple support segments arranged along the circumferential direction and tangent to the inner wall of the coating layer, and two adjacent support segments are connected by specific connecting segments, so that multiple support segments enclose a large-sized overall channel, and at the same time, the coating layer is also supported (for example, a triangular support structure formed by the lines between the tangent points of the three support segments and the inner wall of the coating layer), so as to maintain the basic shape of the filter; and when the filter is subjected to external force, the space in the coating layer is redistributed through the micro-deformation of each support segment and the connecting segment, and a new support structure is formed (for example, the support point formed by the abutment of the bottom of the connecting segment), thereby forming a porous structure with greater support force, thereby avoiding excessive deformation of the filter.

[0052] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the present invention divides the internal space of the covering layer into multiple channels extending axially by arranging three support segments of a specific shape in the covering layer, and encloses a large-sized channel located in the middle area of the covering layer by the multiple support segments. The large channel not only has a high brand recognition and a large filtration area (compared to a circular through hole) but also has a low suction resistance. At the same time, under the joint action of the multiple support segments, the porous filter has a certain softness and good support, and will not be excessively deformed even under the action of the user's mouth.

[0053] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the filter in the present application is able to form a triangular structure support for the coating layer by arranging three support segments along the circumferential direction inside the coating layer, and the three support segments cooperate with each other, so that when there is no external force, the basic shape of the filter is maintained; and when the filter is squeezed, the bottom of the first connecting segment and the bottom of the second connecting segment move closer to each other, and at the same time, the free ends of the second support segment and the third support segment move toward the direction close to the first support structure, that is, the internal support structure of the coating layer is redistributed to offset the external force, and at the same time a porous structure with greater support strength is formed, thereby avoiding excessive deformation of the filter. On the other hand, when the external force is large enough, the bottom of the first connecting segment and the bottom of the second connecting segment abut against each other to form a new support point. At the same time, the free end of the second support segment and the free end of the third support segment move upward, thereby redistributing the internal space of the filter (for example, the overall channel is divided into multiple channels), so that the various support points are combined to form more triangular structures to support the coating layer, thereby effectively improving the support strength of the filter; therefore, the filter tip in the present application ensures softness, so that it can be slightly deformed under the action of external force, but will not be excessively deformed, thereby providing users with a better smoking experience.

[0054] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the present invention sets a fourth support segment I, and the free ends of the second support segment I and the third support segment I are always in contact with the fourth support segment I during the upward movement, so that the fourth support segment I can support and guide the two, thereby avoiding the support structure formed by the free ends of the second support segment I and the third support segment I from being offset (for example, offsetting toward the second support segment I, or offsetting toward the third support segment I) when the force is uneven.

[0055] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the present invention supports the second support segment I and the third support segment I by providing bearing segments on both sides of the second end of the fourth support segment I, which are respectively in contact with the second support segment I and the third support segment I, thereby forming a more stable support for the covering layer.

[0056] In summary, this solution comprehensively provides a filter whose internal structure changes dynamically after being subjected to force. By changing the number of support points and channels inside the coating layer, the support strength of the filter is effectively improved, while providing users with a different suction experience. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0057] In order to more clearly illustrate the embodiments of the present invention or the technical solutions in the prior art, the following is a brief introduction to the drawings required for the embodiments or the description of the prior art. In all drawings, similar elements or parts are generally identified by similar reference numerals. In the drawings, the various elements or parts are not necessarily drawn according to the actual scale. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of the present invention. For those of ordinary skill in the art, other drawings can also be obtained based on these drawings without inventive work.

[0058] Figure 1 Schematic diagram of the cross section of a porous filter in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0059] Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the bottoms of the first connecting section and the second connecting section of the porous filter in an abutting state according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0060] Figure 3 Schematic diagram of C-shaped and U-shaped structures in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0061] Figure 4 Schematic diagram of a triangular support structure generated when the filter is deformed by force and the first connecting section and the second connecting section are in contact with each other;

[0062] Figure 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a porous filter according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0063] Figure 6 is a three-dimensional structural diagram of a porous filter in an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0064] Figure 7 is a three-dimensional structural diagram of a porous filter in another exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0065] Figure 8 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a porous filter in another embodiment of the present invention;

[0066] Figure 9 FIG. 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a porous filter in another embodiment of the present invention.

[0067] Markings in the figure: 01 filter body; 02 coating layer; 03 overall channel, 03a, 03b fourth sub-channel; 06 first connecting segment; 07 second connecting segment; 08 first supporting structure; 09, 09' second supporting structure; 011 first supporting segment I; 012 second supporting segment I, 0121 free end of second supporting segment I; 013 third supporting segment I, 0131 free end of third supporting segment I; 014 fourth supporting segment I; 015a, 015b bearing segment; O1 perpendicular midline of the cross section of first supporting segment I011;

[0068] 011s second supporting section II, 012s third supporting section II, 013s first supporting section II; 100a first sub-channel, 100b second sub-channel, 100b-1 third sub-channel; 101 first convex surface, 101-1 first end of the first convex surface, 101-2 second end of the first convex surface, 102 second convex surface, 102-1 first end of the second convex surface, 102-2 second end of the second convex surface, 103 concave surface; 104 supporting curved surface; 105 bearing structure; 106 closed section; α angle between the line connecting the tangent points between the two first convex surfaces and the cladding layer and the center of the cladding layer; β angle between the line connecting the tangent points between the two second convex surfaces and the cladding layer and the center of the cladding layer. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0069] To make the purpose, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention more clear, the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in the embodiments of the present invention. Obviously, the described embodiments are only part of the embodiments of the present invention, not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by ordinary technicians in this field without making creative efforts are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0070] Herein, suffixes such as "module," "component," or "unit" used to represent elements are only used to facilitate description of the present invention and have no specific meaning. Therefore, "module," "component," or "unit" may be used interchangeably.

[0071] As used herein, terms such as "upper," "lower," "inner," "outer," "front," "back," "one end," and "the other end" indicate positions or locations based on those shown in the accompanying drawings. These terms are intended solely to facilitate and simplify the description of the present invention and are not intended to indicate or imply that the devices or components referred to must have, be constructed, or operate in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the present invention. Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0072] As used herein, unless otherwise expressly specified or limited, the terms "installed," "provided with," and "connected" should be understood broadly. For example, "connected" may refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; it may refer to a mechanical connection, a direct connection, an indirect connection via an intermediate medium, or internal communication between two components. Those skilled in the art will understand the specific meanings of the above terms in the present invention on a case-by-case basis.

[0073] Herein, "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the listed items. Herein, "plurality" means two or more, that is, it includes two, three, four, five, etc.

[0074] Herein, the term "filter" is used to describe an element having a large surface area and a predetermined resistance to draw. In use, an aerosol formed from volatile compounds released from an aerosol-forming substrate passes through the aerosol-cooling element and is filtered and cooled by the filter before being inhaled by the user. Therefore, it is also referred to as an "aerosol-cooling element." In contrast to filters and other mouthpieces that have a high resistance to draw, aerosol-cooling element has a low resistance to draw.

[0075] Herein, the filter body refers to a continuous web of material formed by processing a continuous sheet material through a processing device into a continuous web having corrugations or pleats extending along its length, which is then processed by a processing device and then coated in a coating layer to form a specific shape structure. Here, "sheet material" refers to a laminated element whose width and length are generally greater than its thickness.

[0076] As used herein, "corrugation" means a plurality of generally parallel ridges formed from alternating peaks and valleys joined by the sides of the corrugation. This includes, but is not limited to, corrugations having a square wave profile, a sinusoidal wave profile, a triangular profile, a sawtooth profile, or any combination thereof. Accordingly, "coiled sheet" means a sheet or web having a plurality of corrugations. And "coiled corrugation" refers to corrugations in a coiled sheet or sheet or web.

[0077] As used herein, "axial" refers to a direction extending along or parallel to the length of a web or sheet or tubular element, also referred to as the longitudinal direction.

[0078] In this article, "smoking products" include traditional tobacco products, as well as new tobacco products, such as heat-not-burn (HNB) products, atomizing electronic cigarette products, smokeless tobacco products, etc.

[0079] In this article, "abutment" means that parts of two components are in contact with each other (including point contact or surface contact), and there is a certain interaction force between the two contacting parts.

[0080] In this article, "hollow" refers to a through hole (including a through hole with a circular or non-circular cross section) extending along the axial direction of the tubular element. For example, the first support segment I 011, the second support segment I 012 and the third support segment I 013 form an integral channel 03 extending along the axial direction in the coating layer 02, see Figure 1 For another example, the fourth support segment 1 014 divides the entire channel 03 into two left and right sub-channels, see Figure 5For another example, the two second sub-channels 100b formed by the first support segment II 013s and the second support segment II 011s and the third support segment II 012s, see Figure 8 Accordingly, a plurality of through holes form a porous structure in the tubular element, wherein the through holes can also be referred to as channels or sub-channels.

[0081] The term "arc-shaped" herein means that the entire component or its cross section is arc-shaped, or the entire component or its cross section is formed by a plurality of arc-shaped segments connected smoothly.

[0082] In this article, "C" shape refers to a component whose entirety or cross-section is roughly in the shape of the English letter "C", such as Figure 5 . Of course, it can also be a suitable deformation of the English letter "C". For example, the cross section of a component includes a circular or arc-shaped head, and its two ends extend to corresponding ends along the extension direction away from the head, thereby forming a curved surface with an opening. Therefore, the component with a "C" shape as a whole or in cross section can also be called an arc segment. Among them, the circular head includes a semicircle or a semicircle-like or arc-like shape formed by one curve or multiple curves smoothly connected in sequence from beginning to end.

[0083] The "U"-shaped structure herein includes a component whose entirety or cross-section is roughly in the shape of the English letter "U", such as Figure 5 Of course, it can also be a suitable variation of the English letter "U." For example, a component's cross-section includes a circular or arcuate head, with two arcuate segments connected at each end. The curvature of the arcuate segments is much greater than the curvature of the head, making the arcuate segments almost straight. Of course, if the arcuate segments at both ends of the head are shorter, the component or its cross-section can also be regarded as a C-shaped structure.

[0084] The "support structure" herein refers to a structure that supports the coating layer or the entire channel in maintaining its shape. For example, the portion connecting multiple support segments (or the portion connecting the channels in the porous structure formed by multiple support segments), when the filter is subjected to force, makes some of the support structures formed by the multiple support segments close to or abut against each other, thereby effectively supporting the support segments and then supporting the coating layer. For another example, the free end 0121 of the second support segment 1012 and the free end 0131 of the third support segment 1013 are directly connected, or the free end 0121 of the second support segment 1012 and the free end 0131 of the third support segment 1013 are in point contact / surface contact to form the first support structure 08, such as Figure 1Another example is the second support structure 09 formed by the first connecting segment 06 and the second connecting segment 07, whose openings are arranged back to back and with a certain gap between their bottoms, or the second support structure 09 formed when the bottoms of the first connecting segment 06 and the second connecting segment 07 are close to but not abutting when the filter is subjected to force, or the second support structure 09' formed when the bottoms of the first connecting segment 06 and the second connecting segment 07 are abutting when the filter is subjected to force. These structures can provide a certain degree of support to the three support segments and thus support the entire coating layer.

[0085] Example 1: Figures 1-6 The present invention provides a porous filter, including a coating layer 02 extending in an axial direction. Specifically, the cross-sectional shape of the coating layer 02 is circular, and a filter body 01 is provided in the coating layer 02.

[0086] In some embodiments, the filter body 01 is made of biodegradable filter material with a thickness of 0.05 mm to 0.12 mm.

[0087] Preferably, the filter body 01 is made of cellulose acetate. Preferably, the cellulose acetate may further contain a plasticizer (e.g., triacetin, triethylene glycol diacetate (TEGDA), polyethylene glycol (PEG), or other plasticizers or mixtures thereof). If present, the plasticizer (e.g., triacetin) may be applied to the cellulose acetate material in an amount of 15% to 21.5% (preferably 15% to 19%) based on the total weight of the cellulose acetate material. Taking into account the cross-sectional diameter of the coating layer 02 and other factors, the thickness of the filter body 01 is selected to be 0.08 mm.

[0088] Specifically, the length of the porous filter can be obtained by cutting according to actual needs.

[0089] Of course, in other embodiments, the porous filter may also be made of other biodegradable filter materials, such as polylactic acid fiber.

[0090] In some embodiments, the filter body 01 includes at least three support segments, specifically, the at least three support segments include a first support segment I 011, a second support segment I 012, and a third support segment I 013, wherein the cross-sections of the first support segment I 011, the second support segment I 012, and the third support segment I 013 are all C-shaped, the opening of the first support segment I 011 faces the center of the cladding layer 02, and the two ends of the first support segment I 011 are connected to the connecting end of the second support segment I 012 and the connecting end of the third support segment I 013 through the first connecting segment 06 and the second connecting segment 07, respectively, and the free end 0121 of the second support segment I 012 and the free end 0131 of the third support segment I 013 are connected or in contact with each other to form a movable first support structure 08, so that the first support segment I 011, the second support segment I 012, the third support segment I 013, the first connecting segment 06 and the second connecting segment 07 are combined to form an integral channel 03, and the first support segment I 011, the second support segment I 012 and the third support segment I 013 each form a triangle with the tangent point of the coating layer 02, thereby providing basic support for the coating layer 02.

[0091] In some embodiments, see Figure 1 , three support segments are provided inside the coating layer 02, wherein the curvature (or central angle) of the first support segment 1011 is greater than the curvature (or central angle) of the second support segment 1012 (i.e. the size of C1 formed by the first support segment 1011 is greater than the size of C2 formed by the second support segment 1012, see Figure 3 ), so that the second support segment 1012 and the third support segment 1013 are located within one-half circle of the cross section of the coating layer 02; and the open ends of the second support segment 1012 and the third support segment 1013 are arranged opposite to each other and symmetrical about the perpendicular midline O1 of the cross section of the first support segment 1011 (i.e., the size of C2 formed by the second support segment 1012 and the size of C3 formed by the third support segment 1013 are the same or almost the same, see Figure 3 ). When the filter is subjected to force, the parts at both ends of the first support segment I 011 that are respectively connected to the second support segment I 012 and the third support segment I 013 are more likely to gather toward the center of the filter, thereby forming a porous structure with greater support strength. Moreover, compared with uniformly arranging multiple small-sized through holes extending longitudinally along the circumference or a large-sized through hole extending longitudinally, the problem of weakening the structural rigidity due to the arrangement of multiple small-sized through holes or the arrangement of large-sized through holes, which leads to easy deformation of the filter element, is avoided. In addition, the support segment of the C-shaped structure not only ensures the support, but also increases the contact area of the filter body, thereby improving the filtering effect.

[0092] In some embodiments, the first support segment 1011 to the third support segment 1013 are all single-layer or multi-layer structures formed during the collection process of the curled web.

[0093] Of course, in other embodiments, the curvatures of the first support segment I 011 to the third support segment I 013 are the same and are evenly distributed along the circumference of the coating layer 02.

[0094] In some embodiments, as Figure 3 、 Figure 5 The first connecting segment 06 and the second connecting segment 07 form a U-shaped structure with identical shape and size. Preferably, the first connecting segment 06 and the second connecting segment 07 are symmetrical about the perpendicular midline O1 of the first support segment 1 011, and the opening width of the U-shaped structure gradually decreases as it moves away from the head. In the absence of external forces, a gap remains between the bottoms of the first connecting segment 06 and the second connecting segment 07 (i.e., the outer walls of the circular or curved head). When the filter is subjected to force, the bottoms of the first connecting segment 06 and the second connecting segment 07 can move together to form a second support structure 09, thereby supporting the outer cladding layer 02.

[0095] Furthermore, if Figure 2 and Figure 4 When the external force is large enough, the bottoms of the first connecting section 06 and the second connecting section 07 can abut against each other to form a second supporting structure 09' with greater support strength. At the same time, the entire channel 03 is divided into at least two fourth sub-channels 03a and 03b. That is, the porous structure in the filter is changed, thereby changing the suction resistance of the filter, thereby providing users with a different suction experience.

[0096] Similarly, when the filter is subjected to force, the first support structure 08 gradually moves toward the second support structure 09, so that a new porous structure is formed inside the coating layer 02; and when the external force is large enough, the first support structure 08 and the second support structure 09 contact each other (at this time, the free end 0121 of the second support segment 1 012 and the free end 0131 of the third support segment 1 013 may be dispersed, but there is still a contact point between the two; or they may not be dispersed), and the first support structure 08, the second support structure 09, and the tangent points (i.e., support points) between the three support segments and the coating layer 02 respectively form three triangular structures of support, see Figure 4 , thereby increasing the support strength of the filter after being subjected to force and preventing the filter from excessive deformation after being subjected to force; at the same time, the number and size of the channels change, that is, the porous structure changes, thereby changing the suction resistance of the filter, thereby providing users with a different suction experience.

[0097] In other embodiments, Figure 5The filter body 01 also includes a fourth support segment I 014 extending axially, and the first end 0141 of the fourth support segment I 014 abuts against the top of the first support segment I 011 (preferably, the top is the area where the mid-perpendicular line O1 of the cross section of the first support segment I 011 and the first support segment I 011 intersect; or, it is the circular or arc-shaped head of the first support segment I 011), and the second end 0142 extends to between the free end 0121 of the second support segment I 012 and the free end 0131 of the third support segment I 013, and finally abuts against the inner wall of the covering layer 02.

[0098] In some embodiments, the cross-section of the fourth support segment 1014 can be S-shaped, straight, or other irregular shapes.

[0099] When the fourth support segment 1014 is provided, the free end 0121 of the second support segment 1012 and the free end 0131 of the third support segment 1013 respectively abut against the fourth support segment 1014. When the filter is squeezed and deformed, the free ends 0121 and 0131 of the second support segment 1012 and the third support segment 1013 move upward along the fourth support segment 1014, thereby changing the porous structure. Thus, the fourth support segment 1014 not only provides support but also guides the free ends 0121 and 0131 of the second support segment 1012 and the third support segment 1013, thereby causing the porous structure to change in a predetermined manner.

[0100] Furthermore, in some embodiments, both sides of the second end 0142 of the fourth support segment 1014 (i.e., the end distal from the first support segment 1011) extend in a direction approaching the second support segment 1012 and the third support segment 1013, respectively, forming bearing segments 015a and 015b for supporting the second support segment 1012 and the third support segment 1013, respectively. These bearing segments 015a and 015b can support the second support segment 1012 and the third support segment 1013, further enhancing the support strength of the filter. Furthermore, in other embodiments, the two bearing segments 015a and 015b contact the second support segment 1012 and the third support segment 1013, thereby providing even stronger support for the second support segment 1012 and the third support segment 1013.

[0101] In some embodiments, if the free end 0121 of the second support segment 1012 and the free end 0131 of the third support segment 1013 are merely in contact with each other, the curvature of the second support segment 1012 and the third support segment 1013 can be maintained by setting the bearing structure.

[0102] Furthermore, the two bearing sections 015a and 015b are symmetrically arranged on both sides of the second end 0142 of the fourth supporting section I 014, and their cross-section is teardrop-shaped (for example, their cross-section includes a circular or arc-shaped head, and their two ends extend away from the head and gradually approach each other and finally abut or nearly abut, thereby enclosing a closed or almost closed channel).

[0103] Herein, all the supporting segments, connecting segments and load-bearing segments are single-layer or multi-layer structures formed in the process of curling web materials, and each layer is provided with corrugations along the axial direction.

[0104] As described above, the present technical solution comprehensively provides a porous filter with a hollow structure that can dynamically change according to the external force conditions of the filter. The filter body inside the filter is set to a specific shape. When the filter is slightly deformed after being subjected to force, the microstructure of the filter body inside the filter is redivided, thereby increasing the supporting force and preventing the filter from excessive deformation. At the same time, the change in the spatial structure of the filter body will cause the structure of the channel inside the filter and the number of support points to change, thereby providing structural stability while also generating different suction resistances, thereby providing customers with different suction experiences.

[0105] Example 2: For those skilled in the art, the technical solution of the present invention can also be described from different structural dimensions. For example, Figure 7 and Figure 8 The porous filters shown are respectively Figure 6 and Figure 5 The embodiments of the present invention are completely consistent, but their structural features can be described in different ways. Specifically, in embodiment 2, the porous filter includes a coating layer 02 extending in the axial direction, and a filter body 01 is provided in the coating layer 02 .

[0106] In some embodiments, see Figure 7 The filter body 01 includes a first support segment II 013s extending axially and dividing the coating layer 02 into a first through-hole and a second through-hole, and a second support segment II 011s and a third support segment II 012s symmetrically disposed on either side of the first support segment II 013s. The second support segment II 011s and the third support segment II 012s respectively divide the first through-hole and the second through-hole into a first sub-channel 100a and a second sub-channel 100b of irregular shapes;

[0107] The second support section II 011s and the third support section II 012s both include: a C-shaped cross section and a longitudinal direction (ie Figure 8The first convex surface 101 and the second convex surface 102 are arranged (in the height direction of the first support segment II 013s in the cross section shown); the concave surface 103 is located between the first convex surface 101 and the second convex surface 102, and is used to connect the second end 101-2 at the bottom of the first convex surface 101 and the first end 102-1 at the top of the second convex surface 102, and has an inverted C-shaped cross-section. The open ends of the two first convex surfaces 101 are arranged opposite each other, and the first ends 101-1 at the top of the two first convex surfaces 101 are in contact with the first support segment II 013s. Compared to uniformly arranging multiple small-sized through holes extending longitudinally along the circumference or a single large-sized through hole extending longitudinally, the technical solution of the present invention avoids the problem of weakening the structural rigidity of the filter element due to the arrangement of multiple small-sized through holes or the arrangement of a large-sized through hole, which can lead to easy deformation of the filter element. Moreover, the support section of the C-shaped structure not only ensures support, but also increases the contact area of the filter body, thereby improving the filtering effect. At the same time, compared with the method of randomly arranged multiple small-sized longitudinal through holes or regularly arranged multiple regular through holes (such as PCT patent application number PCT / EP2014 / 078951), the arrangement of the through holes is more reasonable and can reduce the suction resistance to a certain extent.

[0108] In some embodiments, the curvature of the concave surface 103 is smaller than the curvature of the second convex surface 102, and the curvature of the second convex surface 102 is smaller than the curvature of the first convex surface 101, so that the cross-sections of the two symmetrically arranged second sub-channels 100b are butterfly-shaped, see Figure 8 or Figure 9 .

[0109] Specifically, see Figure 9 In the same cross section, the angle α between the line connecting the tangent points of the two first convex curved surfaces 101 on either side of the symmetry axis with the coating layer 02 and the center of the coating layer 02 is greater than the angle β between the line connecting the tangent points of the two second convex curved surfaces 102 on either side of the symmetry axis with the coating layer 02 and the center of the coating layer 02. Because the angle α is greater than the angle β, when the filter is subjected to pressure, the two concave curved surfaces 103 converge toward the center of the filter, thereby forming a porous structure with greater support strength, that is, the porous structure within the filter changes. In addition, as Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, since the second ends 102-2 of the two second convex surfaces 102 are in contact or abutment with the supporting surfaces 104 on both sides of the first supporting section II 013s, when the filter is subjected to pressure, the second ends 1202-2 of the two second convex surfaces 102 gather toward the center of the filter along the first supporting section II 013s, thereby forming a porous structure with greater supporting force, and further causing the porous structure in the filter to change in a predetermined manner.

[0110] In some embodiments, there is a gap between the outer side wall of the concave curved surface 103 and the supporting curved surface 104 on the corresponding side of the first supporting segment II 013s.

[0111] In some embodiments, the cross-section of the first support segment II 013s is S-shaped or straight.

[0112] In some embodiments, the first support segment II 013s to the third support segment II 012s are all formed during the curled web gathering process.

[0113] In some embodiments, the first support segment II 013s extends to the second end 102-2 at the bottom of the second convex surface 102 and continues to extend along two sides perpendicular to the first support segment II 013s (i.e., the axis of symmetry), forming a support structure 105 located at the bottom of the second convex surface 102. Specifically, the support structure 105 is formed during the collection of the curled web. Because the second ends of the second support segment II 011s and the third support segment II 012s are not connected to the first support segment II 013s but are in contact with each other, the support structure 105 is provided to prevent deformation of the second convex surface 102.

[0114] In other embodiments, see Figure 9 The second convex surface 102 is provided with a closing segment 106 that closes its open end and serves as a support. Specifically, the closing segment 106 extends from the second end 102-2 of the second convex surface 102 to the first end 102-1 and contacts the first end 102-1 or the concave surface 103, thereby forming an independent third sub-channel 100b-1 within the second through-hole. Of course, under the influence of the user's mouth or other external forces, the closing segment 106 can separate from the first end 102-1 or the concave surface 103 and contact the first supporting segment 11013s, thereby eliminating the third sub-channel 100b-1. In other words, the closing segment 106 can change the internal channel, thereby achieving fine-tuning of the suction resistance.

[0115] Of course, the closed section 106 may also be connected to the first end 102-1 of the second convex surface 102 or the concave surface 103, and have a gap between it and the first supporting section II 013s.

[0116] In some embodiments, the first ends 101-1 of the two first convex surfaces 101 are smoothly connected, so that the two first curved surfaces 101 and the cladding layer 02 are co-tangent to the top of the first support segment II 013s, see Figure 7 .

[0117] In this embodiment, "convex" and "concave" are relative to the geometric center of the through hole. Specifically, when the center of a circle corresponding to a curved surface and the geometric center of the through hole are located on the same side of the curve, it is called a convex curved surface. For example, the center of the circle corresponding to the first convex curved surface 101 and the geometric center of the through hole (i.e., the second sub-channel 100b) are both located on the same side of the first convex curved surface 101. Similarly, the second convex curved surface 102; and when the center of the circle corresponding to the curved surface and the geometric center of the through hole are respectively located on both sides of the curve, it is called a concave curved surface. For example, the center of the circle corresponding to the concave curved surface 103 and the geometric center of the through hole (i.e., the second sub-channel 100b) are respectively located on both sides of the concave curved surface 103.

[0118] In some embodiments, the curvature of the first convex surface 101 is greater than the curvature of the second convex surface 102, and the curvature of the second convex surface 102 is greater than the curvature of the concave surface 103. Because the curvatures of both the first convex surface 101 and the second convex surface 102 are greater than the concave surface 103, when the filter is subjected to an external force, the concave surfaces 103 on both sides of the first support segment II 013s converge toward the center of the filter. Simultaneously, the second ends 102-2 of the two second convex surfaces 102 also converge toward the center of the filter, thereby forming a porous structure within the filter with greater support strength.

[0119] In some embodiments, the filter body 01 is made of cellulose acetate. Preferably, cellulose acetate may further contain a plasticizer (e.g., triacetin, triethylene glycol diacetate (TEGDA), polyethylene glycol (PEG) or other plasticizers or a mixture of plasticizers). If present, the plasticizer (e.g., triacetin) may be applied to the cellulose acetate material in an amount of 15% to 21.5% (preferably 15% to 19%) of the total weight of the cellulose acetate material. Specifically, the length of the porous filter can be cut and processed according to actual needs. Of course, in other embodiments, the porous filter can also be made of other biodegradable filter materials, such as polylactic acid fibers to make filter cigarette holders.

[0120] For those skilled in the art, the first support segment II 013s in Example 2 and the fourth support segment I 014 in Example 1 are actually the same structure. While dividing the interior of the filter into a porous structure, it also provides support for the coating layer 02, and when the filter is slightly deformed by pressure, it guides the porous structure to change in a predetermined manner.

[0121] In addition, in Example 2, the structure formed by the first convex surface 101 of the second support segment II 011s and the first convex surface 101 of the third support segment II 012s connected together corresponds to the first support segment I 011 in Example 1. The second convex surface 102 of the second support segment II 011s in Example 2 corresponds to the third support segment I 013 in Example 1. The second convex surface 102 of the third support segment II 012s in Example 2 corresponds to the second support segment I 012 in Example 1. The concave surface 103 of the second support segment II 011s in Example 2 corresponds to the second connecting segment 07 in Example 1. The concave surface 103 of the third support segment II 012s in Example 2 corresponds to the first connecting segment 06 in Example 1. The second subchannel 100b in Example 2 corresponds to the channels on both sides of the fourth support segment I 014 in Example 1; and the first subchannel 100a in Example 2 corresponds to the channel between the outer side of the integral channel 03 and the cladding layer 02 in Example 1. The above structure forms a dynamically variable porous structure inside the filter. When the filter is subjected to external pressure, each channel structure undergoes micro-deformation, causing the connecting parts between the channels to gather toward the center of the filter, thereby forming a filter main structure with greater support strength.

[0122] In addition, the bearing structure 105 in the second embodiment includes the bearing segments 015a and 015b in the first embodiment.

[0123] It should be noted that, in this document, the terms "comprises," "includes," or any other variations thereof are intended to encompass non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus comprising a series of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not explicitly listed, or elements inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. In the absence of further limitations, an element defined by the phrase "comprising a ..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus comprising the element.

[0124] The embodiments of the present invention are described above in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, but the present invention is not limited to the above-mentioned specific implementation methods. The above-mentioned specific implementation methods are merely illustrative and not restrictive. Under the guidance of the present invention, ordinary technicians in this field can also make many forms without departing from the scope of protection of the present invention and the claims, all of which are protected by the present invention.

Claims

1. A porous filter, characterized in that include: A cladding layer (02) extending in the axial direction is provided in the cladding layer (02), and a filter body (01) extending in the axial direction is provided in the cladding layer (02), and the filter body (01) includes a first support segment I (011), a second support segment I (012) and a third support segment I (013), the cross sections of the first support segment I (011), the second support segment I (012) and the third support segment I (013) are all C-shaped, the opening of the first support segment I (011) faces the center of the cladding layer (02), and the two ends of the first support segment I (011) are connected to the connecting end of the second support segment I (012) and the end of the third support segment I (013) respectively through a first connecting segment (06) with a U-shaped cross section and a second connecting segment (07) with a U-shaped cross section. The connecting ends are connected, the openings of the first connecting segment (06) and the second connecting segment (07) are opposite to each other and there is a gap between the bottoms; the free end (0121) of the second supporting segment I (012) and the free end (0131) of the third supporting segment I (013) are connected or in contact with each other to form a movable first supporting structure (08), so that the first supporting segment I (011), the second supporting segment I (012), the third supporting segment I (013), the first connecting segment (06) and the second connecting segment (07) are combined to form an integral channel (03), and the first supporting segment I (011), the second supporting segment I (012) and the third supporting segment I (013) each form a triangle with the tangent point of the coating layer (02); When the filter is squeezed under force, the bottoms of the first connecting section (06) and the second connecting section (07) approach each other to form a second supporting structure (09, 09'), and the first supporting structure (08) moves toward the second supporting structure (09, 09').

2. A porous filter according to claim 1, characterized in that: The filter body (01) further comprises a fourth support segment I (014) extending in the axial direction, wherein the first end (0141) of the cross section of the fourth support segment I (014) abuts against the top of the first support segment I (011), and the second end (0142) extends between the free end (0121) of the second support segment I (012) and the free end (0131) of the third support segment I (013), and finally abuts against the inner wall of the coating layer (02); when the filter is squeezed under force, the free end (0121) of the second support segment I (012) and the free end (0131) of the third support segment I (013) move along the fourth support segment I (014) toward the second support structure (09, 09').

3. A porous filter according to claim 2, characterized in that: Both sides of the second end (0142) of the cross section of the fourth support segment I (014) extend in directions close to the second support segment I (012) and the third support segment I (013), respectively, to form bearing segments (015a, 015b).

4. The porous filter according to claim 1, characterized in that: The curvature of the first support segment I (011) is greater than the curvature of the second support segment I (012); and / or the curvature of the first support segment I (011) is greater than the curvature of the third support segment I (013).

5. The porous filter according to claim 1, wherein: The second supporting section I (012) and the third supporting section I (013) are symmetrically arranged.

6. The porous filter according to claim 2, characterized in that: The cross section of the fourth support segment I (014) is S-shaped or straight-line.

7. The porous filter according to claim 1, characterized in that: The first connecting section (06) includes a circular or arc-shaped head, and the two ends of the head are respectively connected to an arc section, wherein the curvature of the arc section is greater than the curvature of the head, and the curvature of the head is less than the curvature of the second supporting section I (012).

8. The porous filter according to claim 2, characterized in that: There is a gap between the outer side walls of the first connecting section (06) and the second connecting section (07) and the fourth supporting section I (014); under external force, the first connecting section (06) and the second connecting section (07) respectively abut against both sides of the fourth supporting section I (014).

9. A porous filter according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that: The thickness of the filter body (01) is 0.05mm-0.12mm.

10. A porous filter according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that: The filter body (01) is made of biodegradable filter material.

Images