Inhaler article with triangular support

Abstract

An inhaler article (10) comprising: a substrate portion (3) comprising a substrate (29) and a holder portion (4) comprising a hollow tubular element (110) having a radius and an inner surface (112) and defining an interior cavity (120); a support (130) in the interior cavity of the holder portion; wherein a portion of the support contacts an inner surface of the holder portion, and a portion of the support forms a triangular shape extending into an interior cavity of the holder portion, where at least one of the sides of the triangular shape has a length greater than a radius of the holder portion.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an inhaler article comprising a holder portion having a triangular support in an interior cavity of the holder portion. Background Art

[0002] Inhaler goods are handled before and during use usually, such as Diskus.For example, inhaler goods may be subjected to longitudinal pressure and transverse pressure when they are manufactured, packaged, unpacked, inserted in the retainer, enabled, used and discarded.Inhaler goods are not always suitable for bearing this handling fully, and also with the inhalation rate or the airflow rate in conventional smoking mode inhalation rate or airflow rate dry powder particles are reliably provided to the user's lung, and can not leak dry powder.Diskus may be complicated to operate, or may relate to moving parts.Diskus attempts to provide suitable dry powder dosage or capsule loading in single suction usually.

[0003] Some dry powder inhalers have parts for storing dry powder, for example capsule.The capsule can be located in the matrix portion of the inhaler product.The capsule can be enabled by being pierced by a separate piercing element.The separate piercing element can be provided by a retainer, and the inhaler product is inserted in this retainer before piercing and using.In case the capsule has been enabled or pierced, the consumer just can use the inhaler product by suctioning on the mouth end (downstream end or proximal end) of the inhaler to generate the air flow through the inhaler.When air flow passes through the inhaler product, the capsule rotates around itself inside the matrix portion of the inhaler product.The agitation of the capsule in the matrix portion of the inhaler product and the airflow pressure make the dry powder discharge from the pierced capsule.Powder is shaken out from the capsule when the capsule is agitated.The discharged dry powder is carried to the user's mouth by the airflow.In order to make the inhaler product suitably operate to discharge powder from the capsule so that powder can be delivered in the user's mouth, the capsule should remain in the matrix portion of the inhaler product during operation.

[0004] Inhaler products comprise the holding section that is positioned at the downstream of the holding member part.The holding member part can have the support member in the holding member part inside.Advantageously, the holding member part with support member is provided with capsule being held in the matrix portion of the inhaler before, during, after and during use, piercing.The support member in the holding member part is arranged to stop capsule from leaving the matrix portion before, during, after and during use, piercing.The support member in the holding member part also provides structural strength for the inhaler products.For example, the support member of the holding member part can be enough firm on the direction of the longitudinal axis of the inhaler products, to prevent capsule from leaving the matrix portion of the inhaler products before, during, after and during use, piercing.The support member of the holding member part can be enough firm on the longitudinal axis direction of the inhaler products, to prevent the support member of the holding member part from being pushed against the holding member part when capsule is pierced by the piercing element. The support member of holder part can be enough firm on the direction of the longitudinal axis of inhaler goods, to prevent that capsule from being pushed out matrix portion during piercing.For example, the support member of holder part can be enough firm on the direction of the longitudinal axis of inhaler goods, to prevent that inhaler goods from being crushed during normal use (comprising manufacturing, packaging, unpacking, being inserted in the retainer, using inhaler goods and disposing inhaler goods).Perhaps, for example, the support member of holder part can be enough firm on the direction of the longitudinal axis of inhaler goods, to prevent that inhaler goods from being crushed during normal use (comprising manufacturing, packaging, unpacking, being inserted in the retainer, using inhaler goods and disposing inhaler goods).The holder part can be hollow or porous, to allow dry powder to pass through.

[0005] The upstream end (distal end) of the holder part of the inhaler goods that holds capsule bears sizable longitudinal force during the activation process of capsule.During this activation process, the piercing element extends in the upstream end of the inhaler goods, so that contact and pierce the capsule that is positioned in the goods.When contacting for the first time, the piercing element promotes the upstream end of the capsule against the holder part, so that successfully pierce the capsule.When the piercing element pierced the capsule, the capsule was pushed against the upstream end of the holder part.Therefore, the downstream components of inhaler goods, especially the holder part should relatively resist the deformation in the longitudinal direction, and particularly relatively resist the deformation in the longitudinal direction under compression.

[0006] In addition, the consumer can be kept in the zone of the holder part of the inhaler product. For the convenience of the activation of the capsule, the consumer can apply sizable lateral force to the inhaler product in the zone of the holder part. Therefore, the holder part also should relatively resist the deformation in the transverse direction, and particularly relatively resist the deformation in the transverse direction under compression.

[0007] Some inhaler products can be useful to providing aerosol to the user from the heated (but not burning) tobacco positioned in the inhaler product. Sometimes, the inhaler product accommodates a capsule, and the capsule accommodates flavoring. The user can remain on the inhaler product in the zone of the capsule. For the convenience of enabling the capsule, the consumer can apply sizable lateral force to the inhaler product in the zone of the capsule to crush the capsule to release the flavoring. The zone of the capsule can be adjacent to the holder part. Therefore, for the inhaler product that heats not burns, the zone of the holder part of the inhaler product also should relatively resist the deformation in the transverse direction, and particularly relatively resist the deformation in the transverse direction under compression.

[0008] The holder part with relatively low porosity can have enough strength so that the activation of capsule. However, when the consumer draws on the inhaler product comprising such a holder part, the suction resistance of the inhaler product can be relatively high. Particles from the capsule may become captured by the structure of the inhaler product downstream of the capsule. As a result, the consumer may not be able to fully exhaust the capsule, and the dose drawn by the consumer is relatively small.

[0009] It would be desirable to provide an inhaler article having a holder portion that has a resistance to draw that allows a user to properly draw in the contents of the matrix portion of the inhaler article.

[0010] It is desirable to provide an inhaler article that is cost-effective to manufacture and that performs efficiently to provide a satisfactory experience for consumers of the inhaler article. Cost-effective means that the article can be manufactured using inexpensive materials with a minimum of manufacturing steps, thereby producing a high-performance article at minimal cost.

[0011] In addition, expectation provides a kind of inhaler goods with enough rigidity to resist longitudinal force.Provide longitudinal force when piercing the capsule that is contained in the matrix portion of inhaler goods, thereby force capsule to abut the supporting member of the holder part of inhaler goods in the longitudinal direction.Expectation provides a kind of inhaler goods with enough rigidity to resist lateral force.When handling inhaler goods (comprising manufacture, encapsulation, unpacking, being inserted in the retainer, using inhaler goods and disposing inhaler goods), provide lateral force (power perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of inhaler goods).

[0012] Expectation can pierce the capsule that is positioned at inhaler goods inside, and prevents when piercing capsule, capsule is pushed out the matrix portion of inhaler goods.That is to say, expectation provides a kind of inhaler goods with holder part, and this holder part is configured to hold capsule in the inhaler goods when piercing element promotes capsule against the holder part.Expectation provides a kind of inhaler goods with enough rigidity to resist the deformation of inhaler goods when capsule is pierced or the inhaler goods that crushes.Expectation provides a kind of inhaler goods with enough rigidity to resist the deformation during the manipulation inhaler goods or the inhaler goods that crushes.Also expectation provides a kind of inhaler goods with holder part, this holder part has enough rigidity or strength in the longitudinal direction to resist the deformation when capsule is pierced or crushes.Expectation provides a kind of inhaler goods with holder part inside, with support member, this support member has enough rigidity or strength to resist the deformation when capsule is pierced or crushes. Expect to provide a kind of inhaler product with support member in the inside of the holder part, this support member has enough rigidity or intensity to prevent or stop the capsule from leaving the matrix portion or being pushed out of the matrix portion of the inhaler product when the capsule is pierced.Expect to provide a kind of inhaler product, it is easy to manufacture and cost-effective, still provides necessary rigidity and low suction resistance simultaneously.Also expect to provide a kind of inhaler product being made of biodegradable material. Summary of the Invention

[0013] The inventor has found that the geometry of the support member inside the holder part helps the holder part in longitudinal direction and the intensity on the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of inhaler goods.The inventor has found that the geometry of the support member inside the holder part helps the holder part to prevent the capsule from leaving the ability of the matrix portion of inhaler goods during the piercing of the capsule in the matrix portion.The inventor has found that the triangle support member as claimed in this paper helps the holder part in longitudinal direction and the intensity on the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of inhaler goods, prevents that the capsule from being pushed out of the matrix portion of inhaler goods during piercing, and still provides the low resistance to suction by inhaler goods simultaneously.The inventor has found that the support member wherein the angled but not curved tip helps the holder part in longitudinal direction and the intensity on the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of inhaler goods, prevents that the capsule from being pushed out of the matrix portion of inhaler goods during piercing, and still provides the low resistance to suction by inhaler goods simultaneously. The inventor has found that the support member wherein at least one of the first leg and the second leg is longer than the radius of the holder part helps the strength of the holder part in longitudinal direction and in the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of inhaler goods, prevents capsule from being pushed out of the matrix portion of inhaler goods during piercing, and still provides the low resistance to suction by inhaler goods simultaneously.The inventor has found that the support member wherein the first leg and the second leg both are longer than the radius of the holder part helps the strength of the holder part in longitudinal direction and in the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of inhaler goods, prevents capsule from being pushed out of the matrix portion of inhaler goods during piercing, and still provides the low resistance to suction by inhaler goods simultaneously.The inventor has found that the support member wherein the first bend and the second bend are angled (and not crooked) helps the strength of the holder part in longitudinal direction and in the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of inhaler goods, prevents capsule from being pushed out of the matrix portion of inhaler goods during piercing, and still provides the low resistance to suction by inhaler goods simultaneously. The inventors have discovered that having the flap and the second flap shorter than the radius of the holder contributes to the strength of the holder portion in the longitudinal direction and in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the inhaler article, preventing the capsule from being pushed out of the matrix portion of the inhaler article during puncture, and maintaining the roundness of the holder portion while still providing low resistance to draw through the inhaler article. The inventors have discovered that a triangular support in which the first and second flaps are attached to the inner surface of the holder portion with an adhesive contributes to the strength of the holder portion in the longitudinal direction and in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the inhaler article, preventing the capsule from being pushed out of the matrix portion of the inhaler article during puncture, while still providing low resistance to draw through the inhaler article.The inventors have found that when the support member has the described characteristics in its geometry, thin or relatively thin materials can be used for the support member while providing sufficient strength of the holder portion in the longitudinal direction and in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the inhaler article to prevent the capsule from being pushed out of the matrix portion of the inhaler article during puncture, while still providing low resistance to suction through the inhaler article. The inventors have also found that the claimed holder portion can be manufactured efficiently.

[0014] The present disclosure relates to an inhaler product having a longitudinal axis between an upstream end and a downstream end. The inhaler product may include a substrate portion and a holder portion. Each of the substrate portion and the holder portion, as well as the inhaler, has a length "l", a radius "r", and a central axis. The substrate portion includes a substrate. The substrate may be plant matter, such as tobacco. The substrate may be tobacco. The substrate may be a capsule. The capsule may be located in a cavity of the substrate portion. The capsule may contain a dry powder. The holder portion may include a hollow tubular element having an inner surface defining an interior cavity. The holder portion may include a support member within the interior cavity of the holder portion. The support member may be formed from a sheet of material. The support member may include a first flap, a first bend, a first leg, a second bend, a second leg, a third bend, and a second flap. The first flap of the support member contacts the inner surface of the hollow tubular element of the holder portion along the length of the first flap. The first leg of the support member includes a length between the first bend and the second bend. The second bend includes a tip. The tip is angled, rather than curved or arced. The second leg of the support includes a length between the second bend and the third bend. When the holder is viewed from the upstream end of the holder, the first leg, the second bend and the second leg form two legs of a triangle extending into the interior cavity of the holder. The second flap contacts the inner surface of the hollow tubular element of the holder portion. In an embodiment, the length of at least one of the first leg and the second leg is greater than the radius of the holder. In an embodiment, the length of the first leg and the second leg is equal. In an embodiment, the first leg and the second leg are straight. The length of the first flap and the second flap of the support can be less than the radius of the holder.

[0015] The inventor has found to be astonishing that the specific geometry of support helps the performance of holder part.And the situation that the first leg, the second bend and the second leg form two legs of the triangle that extend into the inner cavity of the holder causes the holder part to have good performance to prevent capsule from being pushed out of the matrix portion when capsule is pierced.Especially, when capsule was rounded on the end that contacted support when capsule was pushed against support along with capsule being pierced by the piercing element, the triangular support prevented capsule from being pushed in the holder part.In addition, the triangular support keeps the roundness of the holder part on the direction transverse to the longitudinal axis of inhaler goods.

[0016] The inventors have surprisingly discovered that a support in which at least one of the first and second legs is larger than the radius of the holder contributes to the performance of the holder portion. The inventors have discovered that this geometry is more effective in providing a holder portion that is rigid in the longitudinal direction than a triangular support in which the first and second legs are shorter than the radius of the holder portion. The inventors have discovered that this geometry is more effective in providing a holder portion that is rigid in the transverse direction than a triangular support in which the first and second legs are shorter than the radius of the holder portion. The inventors have discovered that when the length of the first leg or the second leg, or both, is greater than the radius of the holder portion, the support is more rigid and more resistant to deformation in the longitudinal and / or transverse directions. The first leg or the second leg can be greater than the radius of the holder portion to retain the ovoid capsule in the matrix portion. The inventors have surprisingly discovered that when both the first leg and the second leg are longer than the radius of the holder portion, the holder portion effectively retains the ovoid capsule in the matrix portion even when the capsule is punctured. Additionally, the inventors have discovered that a holder having a support in which the length of the first leg or the second leg is substantially equal is more cost-effective to manufacture than a support that is triangular in shape but in which the first leg and the second leg are shorter than the radius of the holder portion.

[0017] The inventors have surprisingly discovered that if at least one of the first and second legs is longer than the radius of the retaining element, the bladder is better retained when it is pushed against the support in the longitudinal direction. This is particularly true if the material of the support is thin. If at least one of the first and second legs is longer than the radius of the retaining element, the support can be made of a thinner material.

[0018] The inventors have surprisingly discovered that if the length of both the first leg and the second leg is greater than the radius of the retaining element, the bladder is better retained when it is pushed against the support in the longitudinal direction. This is particularly true if the material of the support is thin or relatively thin. If the length of at least one of the first leg and the second leg is greater than the radius of the retaining element, the support can be made of a thin or relatively thin material. If the length of both the first leg and the second leg is greater than the radius of the retaining element, the support can be made of a thin or relatively thin material.

[0019] The material of the holder part can be for example paper, cardboard, polymer, plastics, bioplastics, extruded bioplastics, metal, foil or any suitable material.The material of the holder part can be identical with the material of inhaler goods.The material of the holder part can be different from the material of inhaler goods.

[0020] The support material can be a flexible material that can be shaped as desired. The support material can be, for example, paper, cardboard, board, polymer, plastic, bioplastic, extruded bioplastic, metal, foil, or any other suitable material. The support material can be a sheet of material. As used herein, the term "sheet" refers to a material whose width and length are significantly greater than its thickness.

[0021] The sheet of material can be paper or cardboard. The sheet of material can be paper. The support member can be made of a sheet of material having a thickness of 250 microns or less. The support member can be made of a sheet of material having a thickness of 200 microns or less. A support material having a thickness of 250 microns or less is considered thin. Similarly, a support material having a thickness of 200 microns or less is considered relatively thin.

[0022] Due to the geometry of the support, wherein at least one of the first leg and the second leg is longer than the radius of the retaining member portion, the support can be made of a thinner material while maintaining sufficient rigidity in the longitudinal and / or transverse directions. Due to the geometry of the support, wherein the second bend (the tip) is angled and not bent, the support can be made of a thinner material while maintaining sufficient rigidity in the longitudinal and / or transverse directions. Due to the geometry of the support, wherein the first bend and the third bend are angled (not bent), the support can be made of a thinner material while maintaining sufficient rigidity in the longitudinal and / or transverse directions. For the purposes of this disclosure, "angled" means a sharp angle or fold in the material, and is distinguished from an arc or curve without a sharp fold in the material.

[0023] For example, due to the geometry of the support, wherein at least one of the first and second legs is longer than the radius of the holder portion, or wherein the tip is angled, or wherein the first and third bends are angled, or wherein the first and second flaps are shorter than the radius of the holder portion, or wherein the first and second flaps are attached to the inner surface of the holder portion with an adhesive, or a combination of these geometries, the support can be made of thin or relatively thin paper. For example, the support can be made of paper having a thickness of 124 microns and a grammage of 170 gsm. Due to the geometry of the support, wherein at least one of the first and second legs is longer than the radius of the holder portion, the support can be made of paper having a thickness of 124 microns and a grammage of 100 gsm. Due to the geometry of the support, wherein at least one of the first and second legs is longer than the radius of the holder portion, the support can be made of paper having a thickness of 10 microns and a grammage of 78 gsm.

[0024] Due to the geometry of the support, wherein the first and second legs are longer than the radius of the holder portion, the support can be made of a thinner material. For example, due to the geometry of the support, wherein the first and second legs are longer than the radius of the holder portion, the support can be made of a thin or thinner paper. Due to the geometry of the support, wherein the first and second legs are longer than the radius of the holder portion, the support can be made of a material. For example, due to the geometry of the support, wherein the first and second legs are longer than the radius of the holder portion, the support can be made of a paper having a thickness of 124 microns and a grammage of 170gsm. Due to the geometry of the support, wherein the first and second legs are longer than the radius of the holder portion, the support can be made of a paper having a thickness of 125 microns and a grammage of 100gsm. Due to the geometry of the support, wherein the first and second legs are longer than the radius of the holder portion, the support can be made of a paper having a thickness of 100 microns and a weight of 78gsm. Using thin or relatively thin materials reduces manufacturing complexity and cost. Using thin or relatively thin materials makes manufacturing more efficient.

[0025] The inventors have surprisingly found that a second bend with an angled (e.g. non-rounded) tip contributes to the performance of the holder portion. The tip may be a fold in the material of the support. The inventors have found that this geometry is more effective in providing a holder portion that is rigid in the longitudinal direction compared to a support with a rounded profile (e.g. an "Ω" shape). The inventors have found that this geometry is more effective in providing a holder portion that is rigid in the transverse direction compared to a support with a rounded profile. The inventors have found that when the tip (second bend) is angled, the support is more rigid and more resistant to deformation in the longitudinal and / or transverse direction. In addition, the inventors have found that the manufacture of a holder with an angled tip is more cost-effective than a support with a rounded shape. In addition, due to the geometry of the support, in which the second bend has an angled and non-rounded tip, the support can be made of thinner material.

[0026] The inventors have surprisingly discovered that when the first and third bends are angled (e.g., non-rounded), the manufacture of the holder portion having the support is more efficient. Another way to state that the first and third bends are angled is to say that the first and third bends are folds in the material of the support. In an embodiment, the first and third bends are not arcs.

[0027] The inventors have surprisingly found that having the first and second legs being straight (e.g., not bent) contributes to the performance of the retainer portion. The inventors have found that this geometry is more effective in providing a retainer portion that is rigid in the longitudinal direction compared to a support whose first and second legs are not straight. The inventors have found that this geometry is more effective in providing a retainer portion that is rigid in the transverse direction compared to a support having a curved first or second leg. The inventors have found that when the first and second legs are straight, the support is more rigid and more resistant to deformation in the longitudinal and / or transverse directions. Due to the geometry of the support, in which the first and second legs are straight (not bent), the support can be made of thinner material while maintaining its rigidity in the longitudinal and / or transverse planes. The inventors have found that the manufacture of a retainer having straight first and second legs is more cost-effective than a support having curved legs.

[0028] The inventors have surprisingly found that having the first and second flaps shorter than the radius of the holder portion contributes to the performance of the holder portion. The inventors have found that if the first and second flaps are shorter than the radius of the holder portion, this geometry is more effective in providing a holder portion that does not deform. That is, with longer flaps, the holder portion may deform. With longer flaps, the holder portion may become less round. The inventors have found that this geometry, in which the first and second flaps are shorter than the radius of the holder portion, results in a holder portion that is more rigid, more rounded, and more resistant to deformation in the longitudinal and / or transverse directions. The inventors have also found that the manufacture of the holder portion when the first and second flaps are shorter than the radius of the holder portion is more cost-effective than when the holder portion has longer first and second flaps.

[0029] When the first and second flaps are shorter than the radius of the holder portion, when at least one of the first and second legs is longer than the radius of the holder portion, and when the first, second, and third bends are angled, the length of the support member is greater than 2d, where d is the diameter of the holder portion. For example, if the inner diameter of the holder portion is 7 mm, the length of the support member (when extended) will be greater than 14 mm. If the inner diameter of the holder portion is 6.55 mm and each of the first and second flaps is, for example, 2.7 mm, the length of the support member (when extended) can be 14.3 mm or longer.

[0030] An inhaler article having a holder portion, the holder portion having a support member, the support member having a first leg and a second leg, the first leg and the second leg being longer than the radius of the holder portion, the support member having an angled and non-rounded second bend (tip), wherein the first leg and the second leg are straight (unbent), wherein the first bend and the third bend are angled (unbent), and wherein the first flap and the second flap are shorter than the radius of the holder portion, the inhaler article being effective in retaining a capsule in the inhaler article when the capsule is punctured and in preventing the inhaler article from deforming in the longitudinal direction and in a direction transverse to the longitudinal direction. The following features contribute to the strength of the triangular insert shape: paper thickness / grammage; the sharp corner of the triangle at the second bend between the first leg and the second leg, and a glue area applied to the side of the flap that contacts the inner surface of the holder portion.

[0031] The length of the holder part can be relatively little.For example, for the inhaler goods of length being 45mm, the holder part can be between 5 and 9mm.The inventor has found surprisingly that, by being incorporated into the geometric shape of the holder part, the length that might keep the holder part is relatively little with respect to the length of inhaler goods.The inventor has found surprisingly that, (characteristic with described geometric shape, such as support member has angled tip, angled first bend and the 3rd bend, wherein the first leg and the second leg are straight, wherein the length of at least one in the first leg and the second leg is greater than the radius of the holder part, and wherein the length of the first tab and the second tab is shorter than the radius of the holder part) holder part allows the length of the holder part to be relatively little with respect to the total length of inhaler goods, still keeps enough rigidity to bear the deformation in longitudinal and / or transverse direction simultaneously.Manufacturing has the inhaler goods of shorter holder part more cost-effective.

[0032] When the inhaler article contains a capsule containing a dry powder active ingredient, the upstream end of the inhaler article may have a folded end. The function of the folded end is to retain the capsule in the cavity at the upstream end.

[0033] The holder portion of inhaler goods can comprise two parts: hollow tubular element and the support member made by the independent material sheet that is arranged on hollow tubular element inside.The holder portion can be arranged on the downstream of capsule.The holder portion can comprise hollow tubular element.The hollow tubular element can limit the hollow inner area or the inner cavity of the holder portion.The holder portion can be included in the supporting element in the inner cavity of the holder portion.

[0034] The support may include a first flap that contacts the inner surface of the hollow tubular element of the holder portion. When the holder portion is viewed from the upstream end of the holder portion, at a first bend, the support extends from the inner surface of the hollow tubular element of the holder portion and into the interior cavity of the holder portion, thereby forming a first leg of a triangular shape within the interior cavity of the holder portion. A second bend in the material of the support forms the tip of the triangle. When the holder portion is viewed from the upstream end of the holder portion, the second leg forms the second leg of the triangular shape within the interior cavity of the holder portion. The support then contacts the inner surface of the hollow tubular element of the holder portion and extends along the inner surface of the hollow tubular element of the holder portion. In other words, the support comprises a first flap, a first bend, a first leg, a second bend, a second leg, a third bend, and a second flap, and this overall structure forms a triangular shape that extends into the interior cavity of the holder portion, with the triangle shape attached to the inner surface of the holder portion at both ends. The two ends (first flap and second flap) may be attached to the inner surface.The two ends (first flap and second flap) may be attached to the inner surface of the holder portion by adhesive.

[0035] The support element can retain the bladder in the cavity between the holder portion and the upstream end. The support element can be formed from a sheet of material. The support element can extend from a first point on the inner surface of the hollow tubular element. The support element can extend into the interior cavity of the holder portion. The support element can be formed into a triangular shape, extending from a first point to a second point on the inner surface of the hollow tubular element of the holder portion into the interior cavity of the holder portion.

[0036] According to the present invention, an inhaler product is provided. When the inhaler product contains a capsule containing a dry powder active ingredient, the inhaler product includes a matrix portion that is a capsule cavity and accommodates the capsule. The capsule accommodates the dry powder. The dry powder is the active ingredient. A retaining member portion is disposed downstream of the matrix portion that accommodates the capsule.

[0037] Compared with the inhaler products of the prior art, inhaler products of the present invention comprise the holder part with hollow tubular element and support member.Support member is attached to the inner surface of the hollow tubular element of the holder part, extends in its inner cavity from the first and second points of the hollow tubular element inner surface of the hollow tubular element, thereby forms a triangle support member in the inner cavity of the holder part.Support member is used for providing a support barrier for one or more parts that are arranged on the upstream of the holder part.For example, support member can be used for providing a barrier for the capsule that is positioned at the chamber.This can help prevent or limit one or more parts (such as capsule) that are arranged on the upstream of the holder part from moving downstream.When piercing element was used for piercing capsule from the upstream end of inhaler products, this may be particularly useful.When piercing capsule from the upstream end of inhaler products, support member can prevent capsule from being pushed out of the capsule cavity.When the substrate in the substrate part was tobacco, the function of the holder part was to provide rigidity in the inhaler products in longitudinal and / or transverse direction.

[0038] Furthermore, because the support member is formed from a sheet material and extends from first and second points on the inner surface of the hollow tubular element into the internal cavity to form a triangular shape, the holder portion can still retain an opening of appropriate size for one or both of air and dry powder (e.g., from the capsule) to flow through the holder portion. This means that the holder portion can have a suitably low suction resistance. This also means that the holder portion can have a suitably low filtering effect and a suitably low suction resistance.

[0039] In addition, forming supporting element by sheet material can realize the effective design of supporting element.This is because the flexibility of sheet material can make it be easily formed into the shape that is most suitable for providing support for one or more parts (such as capsule) that are arranged on the upstream of retainer part.In addition, the optimized design of supporting element can provide rigidity in longitudinal direction and transverse direction.This is especially important to the inhaler goods with dry powder holding capsule, and described dry powder holds capsule and can shape, size or shape and size of certain scope provide.Therefore, the design of supporting element and supporting element provide the design of the position of its supporting barrier and can mean that supporting element can be designed to provide effective support for the inhaler goods that wherein supporting element is set.In addition, supporting element can be provided by the structure that can be made effectively.

[0040] As used herein, the term "holder portion" is used to refer to a generally cylindrical element that defines a lumen or airflow passageway along its longitudinal axis. In particular, the term "holder" will hereinafter be used to refer to a hollow tubular element having a hollow tubular body with a substantially cylindrical cross-section and defining at least one airflow conduit that establishes uninterrupted fluid communication between an upstream end of the holder portion and a downstream end of the holder portion. However, it should be understood that alternative geometries (e.g., alternative cross-sectional shapes) of the holder element may be possible.

[0041] As used herein, the term "longitudinal" refers to a direction corresponding to the main longitudinal axis of the inhaler article, which extends between the upstream end and the downstream end of the inhaler article.

[0042] The terms "upstream" and "downstream" refer to the relative positions of the elements of the described retainer, inhaler product, and inhaler system relative to the direction of the inhaled airflow when the inhaled airflow is drawn through the inhaler product, retainer, and inhaler system. "Downstream" is the mouth end. "Upstream" is on the far side of the mouth end.

[0043] During use, air is drawn through the inhaler article in a longitudinal direction from the upstream end to the downstream end. The term "transverse" refers to a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. Unless otherwise indicated, any reference to a "section" of an inhaler article or its components refers to a cross-section.

[0044] The term "length" refers to the size of the parts of an inhaler product in the longitudinal direction. For example, it can be used to represent the size of a capsule or a holder portion in the longitudinal direction. The term "tangential" refers to a direction that is at an angle to a reference direction. For example, the tangential angle is not parallel to the reference direction.

[0045] The terms "proximal" and "distal" are used to describe the relative position of the parts or parts of inhaler products, retainer or inhaler system. According to retainer of the present disclosure or the element (such as sleeve) that forms retainer, there is proximal end and relative distal end or there is the end closer to the proximal end of retainer, and said proximal end receives inhaler products in use, and said relative distal end can be a closed end. According to inhaler products of the present disclosure, there is proximal end. In use, powder particles leave the proximal end of inhaler products for delivering to the user. Inhaler has the distal end relative to the proximal end. The proximal end of inhaler products can also be referred to as oral end or downstream end. The distal end of parts can correspond to the upstream end of these parts. The proximal end of parts can correspond to the downstream end of these parts.

[0046] For the purposes of this disclosure, "tip" means the shape formed by the intersection of two legs that share a common endpoint. A "tip" may be referred to as the angle of the intersection of two legs, and may also be referred to as the apex of an angle. A "tip" is non-rounded.

[0047] Unless otherwise stated, the resistance to draw (RTD) of a component or inhaler product is measured according to ISO 6565-2015. RTD refers to the pressure required to force air through the full length of the component. The term "pressure drop" or "draw resistance" of a component or product may also refer to "resistance to draw." Such terms generally refer to measurements according to ISO 6565-2015, which are typically performed at a temperature of about 22 degrees Celsius, a pressure of about 101 kPa (about 760 Torr), and a relative humidity of about 60% at the output or downstream end of the measurement component at a volume flow rate of about 17.5 ml / sec.

[0048] Inhaler product can comprise an upstream section. The upstream section can comprise a folded end. The upstream section can be a matrix portion. The inhaler product can comprise a downstream section located downstream of the upstream section. The holder portion can be downstream of the upstream section. The downstream section can be spaced apart from the upstream section. The downstream section can comprise a holder portion. In addition, a plurality of sections can be present. For example, an upstream section can be present that can be a matrix portion. A holder portion can be present downstream of the matrix portion. Optionally, a mouthpiece portion can also be present downstream of the holder portion.

[0049] The inhaler product may include a cavity defined between an upstream section and a downstream section. The cavity may be configured to accommodate a capsule containing an inhalable material. The inhalable material may be a dry powder. The dry powder may be an active ingredient. The active ingredient may be nicotine. The cavity may be configured to communicate with an external fluid of the inhaler product. The cavity may include a capsule cavity, an internal cavity of a holder portion, and optionally a mouthpiece having an internal cavity. The capsule cavity of the matrix portion, the internal cavity of the holder portion, and the optional mouthpiece having an internal cavity may be adjacent to each other to form a continuous cavity.

[0050] The Young's modulus (or elastic modulus) of the filter segment material may be greater than about 10 MPa. Unless otherwise specified, the Young's modulus of the filter segment material is measured according to ASTM E111-17. The Young's modulus (or elastic modulus) of the filter segment material may be greater than about 20 MPa. The Young's modulus (or elastic modulus) of the filter segment material may be greater than about 30 MPa. The Young's modulus (or elastic modulus) preferably refers to the Young's modulus of the component material along the longitudinal axis or direction of the component.

[0051] A capsule can be defined as having a specific puncture strength (measured in Newtons). The puncture strength of a capsule refers to the specific puncture or puncture force (measured in Newtons) that a puncture element or needle must exert on the capsule in order to puncture or activate the capsule. Methods for measuring the puncture strength of a capsule are known to those skilled in the art. For example, the puncture strength of a capsule can be measured according to ASTM F1306-16. For example, the puncture strength of a sample capsule can be measured using a 3.2 mm (8-gauge) diameter puncture element or a hemispherical probe.

[0052] The capsule can be pierced by passing the piercing element through the upstream end of the inhaler article and inserting it into the capsule. The piercing element can be solid. The piercing element can be hollow. The piercing element can be a needle. The piercing element can be a needle between No. 27 (outer diameter = 0.42mm) and No. 4 (outer diameter = 5mm). The piercing element can have a diameter in the range of about 0.42mm to about 0.9mm. The piercing element can have a diameter in the range of about 0.6mm to about 0.9mm. The piercing element can have a diameter in the range of about 0.6mm to about 0.9mm. The piercing element can have a diameter in the range of about 0.7mm to about 0.9mm. The piercing element can have a diameter in the range of about 0.75mm to about 0.85mm. The piercing element can have a diameter of about 0.8mm. The piercing element can have a beveled piercing end. For example, the piercing element can have a single cutting plane or a beveled edge that defines a cutting plane. The piercing element can have the cutting plane angle between the longitudinal axis of the piercing element and the single cutting plane.The cutting plane angle can be in the scope of about 25 degree to about 35 degree.Preferably, the cutting plane angle is in the scope of about 28 degree to about 32 degree.Preferably, the cutting plane angle is about 30 degree.Have been found that the piercing element with these diameters and these cutting plane angles needs about 5 Newtons or less power to enable or pierce the capsule that is contained in the inhaler goods as herein described.

[0053] In one embodiment, the holder part is a particle that is released from the capsule and is entrained in the air-flow through the inhaler article so that they can be delivered to the user.Perhaps, the holder part is a particle that is released from the capsule and is entrained in the air-flow through the inhaler article so that they can be delivered to the user.Perhaps, the holder part is a particle that is released from the inhaler article and is entrained in the air-flow through the inhaler article so that they can be delivered to the user.Perhaps, the holder part is a particle that is released from the inhaler article and is entrained in the air-flow through the inhaler article so that they can be delivered to the user.Perhaps, the holder part is a particle that is entrained in the air-flow through the inhaler article so that the inhaler article can be delivered to the user.

[0054] The holder portion including the support member may be configured to withstand a force of at least about 50% of the puncture strength of the bladder applied to the upstream end of the holder portion (applied in the longitudinal direction) without significant deformation. The holder portion may be configured to substantially maintain its structure when a longitudinal force of at least about 200% of the puncture strength of the bladder applied to the upstream end of the holder portion is applied. The holder portion may be configured to withstand a force of up to about 200% of the puncture strength of the bladder applied to the upstream end of the holder portion in the longitudinal direction without significant deformation. The holder portion may be configured to withstand a force of up to about 100% of the puncture strength of the bladder applied to the upstream end of the holder portion without significant deformation. The holder portion may be configured to withstand a force of up to about 200% of the puncture strength of the bladder applied to the upstream end of the holder portion without significant deformation. The holder portion can be configured to withstand a force of at least 50% to approximately 100% of the puncture strength of the bladder applied to the upstream end of the holder portion without significant deformation. The holder portion can be configured to withstand a force of at least 50% to approximately 200% of the puncture strength of the bladder applied to the upstream end of the holder portion without significant deformation. The holder portion can be configured to withstand a force between 50% and 200% of the force required to puncture the bladder with the piercing element. The holder portion can be configured to withstand a force between approximately 3 Newtons and approximately 10 Newtons.

[0055] The holder part can extend to the downstream end of the inhaler goods from the capsule cavity or the matrix part.In other words, the length of the downstream section of the inhaler goods can be identical with the length of the holder part.Perhaps, the holder part can separate with the downstream section of the inhaler goods.That is to say, between the holder part and the mouth end of the inhaler goods, can there be the cigarette holder part.

[0056] The length of the inhaler article may be between 35 and 55 mm. The length of the inhaler article may be between 40 and 50 mm. The length of the inhaler article may be about 45 mm. The length of the holder portion may be less than about 10 mm. The length of the holder portion may be less than 9 mm. The length of the holder portion may be between 4 and 10 mm. The length of the holder portion may be between 4 and 9 mm. The length of the holder portion may be between 5 and 9 mm. The length of the holder portion may be between 5 and 8 mm. The length of the holder portion may be between 10% and 40% of the length of the inhaler article. The length of the holder portion may be between 10% and 30% of the length of the inhaler article. The length of the holder portion may be between 10% and 25% of the length of the inhaler article. The length of the holder portion may be between 10% and 20% of the length of the inhaler article. The length of the holder portion may be between 20% and 40% of the length of the inhaler article. The length of the holder portion may be between 20% and 35% of the length of the inhaler article. The length of the holder portion may be between 20% and 30% of the length of the inhaler article. The length of the holder portion may be 15% of the length of the inhaler article. Holder portion.

[0057] Preferably, the length of the holder portion is between about 5 mm and 10 mm. Preferably, the length of the holder portion is between 5 mm and 9 mm. Preferably, the length of the holder portion is between 6 and 9 mm. Preferably, the length of the holder portion is between 6 and 8 mm. The holder portion may be 7 mm. The specific geometry of the support (wherein the support is formed as a sheet of material and includes a first flap, a first bend, a first leg, a second bend, a second leg, a third bend, and a second flap, wherein the first flap of the support includes a length, and wherein the first flap of the support contacts the inner surface of the holder portion, wherein the first leg of the support includes a length between the first bend and the second bend, wherein the second bend includes a tip, wherein the second leg of the support includes a length between the second bend and the third bend, wherein when the holder portion is viewed from the upstream end of the holder portion, the first leg, the second bend, and the second leg form two legs of a triangle extending into the interior cavity of the holder portion, wherein the support forms a second flap, wherein the second flap of the support includes a length that contacts the inner surface of the holder portion, and wherein the length of at least one of the first leg and the second leg is greater than the radius of the holder portion) provides sufficient rigidity so that the length of the holder portion can be as described above. That is, the specific geometry of the support allows the holder portion to be shorter. A shorter holder portion reduces the cost of the assembled inhaler product.

[0058] Inhaler goods can have an external diameter of about 6mm to about 10mm or about 7mm to about 10mm or about 7mm to about 9mm or about 7mm in the scope of about 8mm, or be about 7.2mm.Inhaler goods can have a length (along longitudinal axis) in the scope of about 30mm to about 100mm or about 40mm to about 100mm or about 40mm to about 80mm or about 40mm to about 60mm.Preferably, the length of inhaler goods is about 45mm.Preferably, the length of inhaler goods is selected so that the mouthpiece end of inhaler goods is outstanding from the retainer of inhaler system, and this is described in more detail hereinafter.

[0059] (far away, front or upstream) end of inhaler goods can have folded end.Folded end can fold backward to expose the capsule in the cavity before piercing the capsule contained in the cavity.Folded end can fold backward when inhaler goods is inserted in the retainer with complementary features, to realize the folding of the far-end of inhaler goods.

[0060] The mouth end (downstream end, proximal end or mouthpiece end) of an inhaler article can have a curled end. The curled end is an annular shape. The annular shape is cut, cut like a bagel, to form two circular halves. The rounded side of the annular shape can form the mouth end of the inhaler article. The curled end has a central aperture. The curled end captures particles that do not flow through the central aperture when using the inhaler article. The curled end prevents particles from leaking from the mouth end of the inhaler article.

[0061] The inhaler article can be assembled into the holder. The piercing element can be provided by the holder. The piercing element can be inserted into the capsule and removed from the capsule by operation of a spring in the holder. The piercing element provided by the holder can then be inserted into the inhaler article, thereby piercing the capsule. The piercing element can then be retracted from the inhaler article, leaving the pierced capsule in the inhaler article.

[0062] Inhaler goods can be placed in retainer.Inhaler goods can be removed from retainer.Inhaler goods can remain in retainer.By being drawn through the inhaler goods by the air inlet from the upstream end that is positioned at the inhaler goods to the mouthpiece of inhaler goods or the downstream end.Can be removed powder from the capsule that is positioned at the inhaler goods.When air is drawn through the inhaler goods, through the capsule that is pierced from the upstream end of inhaler goods to the downstream end of inhaler goods, particle is discharged from capsule, and is entrained in the air-flow that passes through inhaler goods, thereby particle is delivered to mouthpiece of inhaler goods or the downstream end and is delivered to the user.Retainer can provide eddy airflow to cause the swirling airflow around capsule to the downstream end of inhaler goods, thereby makes capsule can rotate, and improves particle in capsule cavity from the release of capsule.Retainer can provide eddy airflow to cause the swirling airflow around capsule to the downstream end of inhaler goods, thereby stirs capsule, and improves particle in capsule cavity from the release of capsule. Inhaler articles may have end plugs to induce a swirling airflow around the capsule, thereby agitating the capsule and improving the release of particles from the capsule in the capsule cavity. Inhaler articles may have end plugs to induce a swirling airflow around the capsule, thereby rotating the capsule and improving the release of particles from the capsule in the capsule cavity.

[0063] The body of inhaler article or " inhaler article " can have any suitable shape.The body of inhaler article or " inhaler article " can be similar to smoking article or conventional cigarette in size and shape.Inhaler article can have basically consistent external diameter along the length of inhaler article.Inhaler article can have basically consistent internal diameter along the length of inhaler article.Inhaler article can have any suitable cross-sectional shape.For example, the cross section can be circular, oval, square or rectangular.Preferably, inhaler article has the circular cross section that can be consistent along the length of inhaler article, thereby forms elongated cylindrical body.

[0064] Inhaler goods can have an end plug. The end plug can be at the upstream end of the inhaler goods. The end plug can provide an air inlet, and the air inlet produces the vortex airflow through the passage of the inhaler goods, and the passage extends to the mouthpiece end of the inhaler goods from the upstream end of the inhaler goods through the holder part. The end plug and the capsule can be positioned in the hollow tube. Passage can be formed by the inner cavity of the capsule cavity of the matrix part, the holder part and another downstream part such as the mouthpiece part. The inner cavity of these parts can abut each other, thereby forming the passage extending to the downstream end of the inhaler goods from the capsule cavity. The downstream end of the capsule cavity can abut the upstream end of the holder part. The material of the hollow tubular element of the capsule cavity, the holder part and the optional downstream mouthpiece part can be formed by polymer or cellulose material or any other suitable material.

[0065] The holder part of inhaler goods can be formed by biodegradable material.Preferably, the holder part is formed by paperboard or cardboard.Preferably, the holder part is formed by paperboard or cardboard.The holder part can have consistent thickness along its length.The hollow tubular element of the holder part can have the thickness in the scope of approximately 1mm to approximately 2mm.

[0066] The inhaler article may comprise a filter wrapper defining a matrix portion, a holder portion and an optional mouthpiece portion. The wrapper may be formed from a biodegradable material. The wrapper may be formed from a paper wrapper.

[0067] Inhaler product can comprise an upstream section, and said upstream section comprises a folded end.The folded end can limit a central channel.The central channel can comprise a first end that limits the upstream boundary of the matrix portion with a sac cavity and a second opposite end that limits the far-end of the inhaler product body.The second opposite end can limit the open far-end of the inhaler product body.When the folded end is opened, the second opposite end can limit the open far-end of the inhaler product body.The central channel can extend between the upstream end and the downstream end along the longitudinal axis of the inhaler product, and can comprise a matrix portion and a holder portion.The central channel can extend along the longitudinal axis of the inhaler product, and can comprise a matrix portion, a holder portion and a mouthpiece portion.The longitudinal axis can be limited to the opening at the far-end of the inhaler product, and this opening is coaxial with the longitudinal axis of the inhaler product.

[0068] Advantageously, the inhaler article may include an open aperture along the longitudinal axis and may not have elements that block or obstruct the open distal end of the inhaler article to reduce the complexity of the inhaler article. Once the capsule has been pierced, the consumer can simply block or obstruct the open distal end with a retainer or the consumer's finger to direct the inhaled airflow substantially through the air inlet on the inhaler article.

[0069] Preferably, the airflow through the inhaler article enters the inhaler article through the upstream end of the inhaler article or through the open distal end of the inhaler article via the airflow inlet channel and then along the longitudinal axis of the inhaler article, through the pocket of the matrix portion, through the retainer portion, and exits at the mouthpiece or downstream end of the inhaler article.

[0070] Central channel can have the consistent internal diameter or the open diameter that extends to the open far-end or the most upstream end of inhaler goods from the sac cavity.Central channel can have the diameter that is at least about 50% or at least about 70% or at least about 75% of the diameter of inhaler goods.The central channel of inhaler goods can have the diameter in the scope of about 50% to about 90% of the diameter of the sac that is retained in the sac cavity.The diameter that central channel can have is about 3mm to about 6.5mm or about 4mm to about 6mm or about 5mm to about 6mm, or is about 5.5mm.Alternately, central channel can have the diameter in the scope of about 0.5mm to about 2mm.This sizing of central channel guarantees that sac can not fall out from inhaler goods via central channel.

[0071] As discussed above, the end plug or retainer can induce a rotating or vortex airflow as air is drawn through the airflow inlet channel of the end plug or retainer and through the capsule cavity. Advantageously, this vortex airflow generated by the airflow inlet channel of the end plug or retainer can be useful for efficiently depleting the capsule during consumption after the capsule has been punctured. Advantageously, the "vortex" effect can cause the capsule to agitate or rotate, providing uniform entrainment of a portion or a small portion of nicotine particles from the capsule over two or more, or five or more, or ten or more inhalations or "puffs" by the user.

[0072] The inhalable material may comprise nicotine. Preferably, the capsule contains pharmaceutically active particles. The pharmaceutically active particles may comprise nicotine. The pharmaceutically active particles may have a mass median aerodynamic diameter of about 5 microns or less, or in the range of about 0.5 microns to about 4 microns, or in the range of about 1 micron to about 3 microns.

[0073] Advantageously, the inhaler article effectively delivers nicotine particles in the form of pharmaceutically active particles or aerosol to the lung at an inhalation rate or airflow rate that is within the inhalation rate or airflow rate of conventional smoking.

[0074] Inhaler article described herein or system can provide dry powder to lung at the suction rate or airflow rate in conventional smoking mode suction rate or airflow rate.The consumer can carry out multiple suction or " suction pumping ", wherein each " suction pumping " delivery is contained in the small part amount of the dry powder held in the capsule in the capsule cavity.Inhaler article can have the form that is similar to conventional cigarette, and can simulate the habit of conventional smoking.Inhaler article can be easy to manufacture and is convenient for the consumer to use.

[0075] The airflow management by the capsule cavity of inhaler article can make the capsule contained therein rotate during suction and consumption.The capsule can hold particles (also referred to as "nicotine powder" or "nicotine particles") that contain nicotine, and optionally particles (also referred to as "flavor particles") that comprise flavors. The rotation of the pierced capsule can be suspended, and the nicotine particles aerosolized from the pierced capsule released into the inhaled air moving through the inhaler article. The flavor particles can be larger than the nicotine particles, and can contribute to the nicotine particles being transported to the user's lungs, while the flavor particles preferentially remain in the user's mouth or buccal cavity. The inhaler article can be utilized to deliver nicotine particles and optional flavor particles at an inhalation rate or airflow rate within a conventional smoking mode inhalation rate or airflow rate.

[0076] The term "nicotine" refers to nicotine and nicotine derivatives, such as freebase nicotine, nicotine salts, and the like.

[0077] The term "flavorant" or "flavor" refers to a sensory compound, composition or material that alters and is intended to alter the taste or aroma characteristics of nicotine during its consumption or inhalation.

[0078] Alternatively, the matrix portion can hold tobacco. The matrix portion can also have a heater. The heater can heat the tobacco (it also has an aerosolizing agent) to release the aerosol that contains nicotine from the matrix portion into the air flow through the holder portion to the mouthpiece end of the inhaler article for delivery to the user. When the matrix portion holds tobacco, the function of the support member is to prevent the tobacco rod from moving in the longitudinal direction in response to a force (such as the air flow that moves from the upstream end of the inhaler article to the downstream end in the longitudinal direction).

[0079] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a kind of inhaler system is provided, it comprises the inhaler article as described herein and a holder for receiving the inhaler article.The holder comprises a housing defining a housing cavity, and the housing cavity is configured to receive the inhaler article.The holder comprises a piercing element, and the piercing element is configured to extend into the housing cavity and pierce the capsule of the inhaler article.

[0080] The holder may comprise a piercing element extending into the housing cavity, the piercing element being configured to pierce a capsule of the inhaler article.

[0081] The retainer of inhaler goods can be combined with the inhaler goods (described herein) that hold capsule.Inhaler goods can be enabled or ready by piercing capsule.Piercing capsule provides reliable enabling of the capsule in the inhaler goods (by piercing capsule with the piercing element of retainer), thereby discharges the particle that is contained in capsule inside, and makes the particle that is contained in the capsule become entrained in the air flow through inhaler goods, so that particle is delivered to the consumer.Retainer is separated from inhaler goods, but the consumer can utilize inhaler goods and retainer, consumes the particle that discharges in inhaler goods simultaneously.A plurality of these inhaler goods can be combined to form system or suite with retainer.Single retainer can be utilized on 10 or more or 25 or more or 50 or more or 100 or more inhaler goods, to enable (pierce or pierce) the capsule that is contained in each inhaler goods and provide reliable enabling.Optionally, can provide the visual indication (marking) that the capsule of indication inhaler goods has been pierced on each inhaler goods.This mark can indicate inhaler goods and has been used.

[0082] The retainer that is used for inhaler goods comprises: comprise the housing that is used to receive the housing cavity of inhaler goods, and be configured to the sleeve that inhaler goods is retained in the housing cavity.Sleeve comprises sleeve cavity, and is movable in the housing cavity along the longitudinal axis of housing.Sleeve comprises first open end and second opposite end.The first open end is configured to receive the far-end of inhaler goods.The second opposite end of sleeve is configured to the far-end of contact inhaler goods.The second opposite end of sleeve is configured to guide basically all suction air to flow through inhaler goods via at least one air inlet that extends on the direction that is not parallel to central channel.

[0083] The holder may include an opening structure to receive the folded distal end of the inhaler article and fold the folded end back so that the folded flap of the distal end of the inhaler article is folded back into the inhaler article, thereby exposing the capsule in the capsule cavity to the interior of the holder.

[0084] Preferably, the piercing element is fixed to the housing inner surface and extends from the housing inner surface. The piercing element can be configured to extend through the second opposite end of the sleeve and enter the capsule cavity to pierce the capsule along the longitudinal axis of the housing. The piercing element can be a metal or rigid needle. The piercing element can be formed into a single orifice that passes the capsule received in the capsule cavity. The piercing element can be configured to pass the end plug or the hollow tube of the inhaler product, accurately pass its central channel, and enter the capsule cavity.

[0085] Retainer can also comprise spring element, and described spring element is configured to bias sleeve towards the open proximal end of housing and between relaxed position and compressed position.Spring element can be contained in the housing cavity (also referred to as inhaler product cavity) of retainer, and along with movable sleeve and inhaler product move towards piercing element and be compressed.Spring element can be positioned between the far-end of sleeve and housing, and contacts the far-end of sleeve and housing.Spring element can be between the far-end of sleeve and housing.Spring element can contact the far-end of sleeve and the far-end of housing.Spring element can be arranged on piercing element around.Spring element can be coaxial with piercing element.Spring element can be a conical spring.

[0086] The spring element is away from the piercing element biasing inhaler goods.In use, the user can be inserted into the inhaler goods chamber of retainer by the inhaler goods.By doing this, the spring can be compressed, thereby allow the inhaler goods to move towards the far-end of the inhaler goods chamber.Finally, the piercing element can penetrate the capsule that is arranged in the inhaler goods.In case this happens, the user just can discharge the inhaler goods, thereby allow the spring towards the near-end of the inhaler goods chamber and away from the piercing element biasing inhaler goods.Then, the user can suck on the near-end of the inhaler goods.

[0087] The sleeve may define a first air inlet region comprising at least one air aperture through the sleeve. The first air inlet region is located near the proximal end of the sleeve. The first air inlet region is configured to allow air to flow from the interior of the sleeve into an air flow passage formed between the sleeve and the inner surface of the housing. The sleeve may include a second air inlet region comprising at least one air aperture through the sleeve. The second air inlet region is located near the distal end of the sleeve. The second air inlet region is configured to allow air to flow from the air flow passage into the interior of the sleeve.

[0088] The holder may comprise a marking element extending into the housing (or inhaler product) cavity. The marking element may be configured to mark the surface of the inhaler product. The marking element may extend orthogonally to the holder or the inhaler product longitudinal axis. The marking element may be configured to mechanically mark the outer surface of the inhaler product. For example, the marking element may be configured to scrape, cut, abrade, score, fold or bend the outer surface of the inhaler product. The marking element may have a sharp end that is configured to scrape the outer surface of the inhaler when received in the housing cavity. When received in the housing cavity, the marking element may apply color to the inhaler product outer surface. When the piercing element penetrated the capsule arranged in the inhaler product, the marking element may mark the inhaler product outer surface. Therefore, the indication inhaler product has been enabled and can be consumed by the user. This may also advantageously prevent the user from attempting to reuse the previously enabled inhaler product.

[0089] Marking element can be orthogonal to holder or inhaler goods longitudinal axis and extend.Marking element can be formed by rigid material, and described rigid material is configured to provide the visual indication that marking element has contacted inhaler outer surface.Marking element can be fixed to holder housing.As mentioned above, marking element can form alignment pin.

[0090] The marking element can extend through at least a portion of the thickness of the retainer. The marking element can extend through the sleeve. The marking element can extend in the housing cavity and extend in the sleeve. The marking element can extend beyond the marking distance of sleeve at least so that when the inhaler goods were received in the housing cavity, the marking element contacted the inhaler outer surface. The marking element can align with and cooperate with the elongated slot of the sleeve.

[0091] Inhaler articles as described herein can be combined with a piercing element or a retainer comprising a piercing element to deliver nicotine particles from the capsule to the user. The piercing element or piercing device (or retainer) can be separated from a part of the inhaler article or do not form a part of the inhaler article. Multiple inhaler articles can be combined with a piercing element or piercing device (or retainer) to form a kit.

[0092] Method comprises that the inhaler goods are inserted in the sleeve of the retainer that is used for inhaler goods, as described herein, until the second opposite end of the far-end contact sleeve of inhaler goods.Method comprises that the inhaler goods are inserted in the sleeve of the retainer that is used for inhaler goods, as described herein, until the complementary feature of the far-side folded end contact retainer of inhaler goods, so that the flap of folded end is folded in the far-end of inhaler goods, and is folded in the far-end inside of inhaler goods.Inhaler goods comprises body and the capsule that is arranged in the inhaler goods body, and body extends body length from the mouthpiece end to the far-end along the inhaler longitudinal axis.Then, move inhaler goods and sleeve towards piercing element, until the piercing element pierces the capsule.Then, sleeve is moved away from the piercing element, until the piercing element is removed from the pierced capsule.Then, air is drawn into the second opposite end of the sleeve of retainer so that airflow is directed to the air inlet on the retainer, thereby form rotation or the vortex airflow through the chamber of inhaler goods. When the inhaler product is arranged in the retainer for the inhaler product, this vortex inhaled airflow is transferred to the capsule cavity. The vortex inhaled airflow rotates or stirs the capsule to discharge the particles contained therein. The particles become entrained in the airflow. The consumer inhales the particles. This can be repeated several times, until the particles contained in the capsule are exhausted. For example, the user can carry out several "suctions" to inhale the particles contained in the capsule. Then, the consumed inhaler product can be removed and discarded from the retainer. Then, fresh inhaler product can be inserted in the retainer, and the method can be repeated.

[0093] Capsule can be sealed in the inhaler goods before consumption.For transport and storage, the inhaler goods can be contained in sealing or airtight container or bag.The inhaler goods can comprise one or more peelable sealing layers, for covering one or more air inlet channels at the far end of the inhaler goods or the air outlet at the mouthpiece end of the inhaler goods.This can guarantee that the inhaler goods maintains suitable hygiene and freshness, perhaps can prevent that capsule from drying and hardening or brittle.The holder part can increase the rigidity of the inhaler goods when it is manufactured, packaged, transported, stored, taken out from packaging, inserted in the retainer, used and discarded.

[0094] The capsule can rotate around its longitudinal or central axis when air is drawn through the inhaler article. The capsule can be formed of an airtight material that substantially contains the particles inside the capsule. The capsule can be configured to be pierced or punctured by a piercing element when the capsule is located in the capsule cavity. The piercing element can be separated or combined with the inhaler article. The capsule can be formed of any suitable material. The capsule can be formed of a metal or polymeric material that is used to keep the capsule from contamination, but can be pierced or punctured by a piercing element before consumption to enable the release of nicotine particles from the capsule. The capsule can be formed of a polymeric material. The polymeric material can be hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC). The capsule can have any suitable size. The capsule can be a size 1 to size 4 capsule, or a size 3 capsule, or a size 3 capsule.

[0095] The capsule can contain pharmaceutically active particles comprising nicotine (also referred to as "nicotine powder" or "nicotine particles"), and optionally particles comprising flavoring (also referred to as "flavor particles"). The capsule can contain a predetermined amount of nicotine particles and optional flavoring particles. The capsule can contain enough nicotine particles to provide at least 2 inhalations or "puffs," or at least about 5 inhalations or "puffs," or at least about 10 inhalations or "puffs." The capsule can contain enough nicotine particles to provide about 5 to about 50 inhalations or "puffs," or about 10 to about 30 inhalations or "puffs." Each inhalation or "puff" can deliver about 0.1 mg to about 3 mg of nicotine particles to the user's lungs, or about 0.2 mg to about 2 mg of nicotine particles to the user's lungs, or about 1 mg of nicotine particles to the user's lungs.

[0096] Based on the specific formulation used, the nicotine particles can have any effective nicotine concentration. The nicotine particles can have at least about 1% wt nicotine up to about 30% wt nicotine, or about 2% wt to about 25% wt nicotine, or about 3% wt to about 20% wt nicotine, or about 4% wt to about 15% wt nicotine, or about 5% wt to about 13% wt nicotine. Preferably, about 50 to about 150 micrograms of nicotine can be delivered to the user's lungs with each inhalation or "puff."

[0097] The capsule can hold or contain at least about 5 mg of nicotine particles or at least about 10 mg of nicotine particles. The capsule can hold or contain less than about 900 mg of nicotine particles, or less than about 300 mg of nicotine particles, or less than 150 mg of nicotine particles. The capsule can hold or contain from about 5 mg to about 300 mg of nicotine particles or from about 10 mg to about 200 mg of nicotine particles.

[0098] When the flavor particles are blended or combined with the nicotine particles within the capsule, the flavor particles can provide an amount of the desired flavor present with each inhalation or "puff" delivered to the user.

[0099] The nicotine particles can have any effective particle size distribution for preferential delivery to the user's lungs during inhalation. The capsule can include particles other than nicotine particles. The nicotine particles and other particles can form a powder system.

[0100] The capsule can hold or contain at least about 5 mg of dry powder (also referred to as a powder system) or at least about 10 mg of dry powder. The capsule can hold or contain less than about 900 mg of dry powder, or less than about 300 mg of dry powder, or less than about 150 mg of dry powder. The capsule can hold or contain from about 5 mg to about 300 mg of dry powder, or from about 10 mg to about 200 mg of dry powder, or from about 25 mg to about 100 mg of dry powder.

[0101] The dry powder or powder system can have at least about 40% by weight, or at least about 60% by weight, or at least about 80% by weight of the powder system comprised of nicotine particles having a particle size of about 5 microns or less, or in the range of about 1 micron to about 5 microns.

[0102] The particles comprising nicotine may have a mass median aerodynamic diameter of about 5 microns or less, or in the range of about 0.5 microns to about 4 microns, or in the range of about 1 micron to about 3 microns, or in the range of about 1.5 microns to about 2.5 microns. Preferably, the mass median aerodynamic diameter is measured using a cascade impactor.

[0103] The particles containing the flavor may have a mass median aerodynamic diameter of about 20 microns or greater, or about 50 microns or greater, or in the range of about 50 to about 200 microns, or in the range of about 50 to about 150 microns. Preferably, the mass median aerodynamic diameter is measured using a cascade impactor.

[0104] The dry powder can have an average diameter of about 60 microns or less, or in the range of about 1 micron to about 40 microns, or in the range of about 1.5 microns to about 25 microns. Average diameter refers to the average diameter per unit mass, and is preferably measured by laser diffraction, laser diffusion or electron microscopy.

[0105] The nicotine or nicotine particles in the powder system can be pharmaceutically acceptable free base nicotine or a nicotine salt or nicotine salt hydrate. Effective nicotine salts or nicotine salt hydrates include, for example, nicotine pyruvate, nicotine citrate, nicotine aspartate, nicotine lactate, nicotine bitartrate, nicotine salicylate, nicotine fumarate, nicotine monopyruvate, nicotine glutamate, or nicotine hydrochloride. The compound that forms a salt or salt hydrate in combination with nicotine can be selected based on its expected pharmacological effect.

[0106] Preferably, the nicotine particles include an amino acid. Preferably, the amino acid can be leucine, such as L-leucine. Providing an amino acid such as L-leucine to the nicotine particles can reduce the adhesion of the nicotine particles, reduce the attractive forces between the nicotine particles, and thus reduce nicotine particle agglomeration. Similarly, adhesion to flavoring particles can also be reduced, thereby also reducing the agglomeration of nicotine particles and flavoring particles. Therefore, even when nicotine particles are combined with flavoring particles, the powder system described herein can be a free-flowing material, and each powder component can have a stable relative particle size.

[0107] Preferably, the nicotine is a surface-modified nicotine salt, wherein the nicotine salt particles include coated or composite particles. A preferred coated or composite material may be L-leucine. A particularly effective nicotine particle may be nicotine bitartrate bound to L-leucine.

[0108] The powder system may include a population of flavor particles. The flavor particles may have any effective particle size distribution for selective delivery for inhalation into the oral or buccal cavity of a user.

[0109] The powder system may have at least about 40%, or at least about 60%, or at least about 80% by weight of the powder system's flavor particle population contained within particles having a particle size of about 20 microns or greater. The powder system may have at least about 40%, or at least about 60%, or at least about 80% by weight of the powder system's flavor particle population contained within particles having a particle size of about 50 microns or greater. The powder system may have at least about 40%, or at least about 60%, or at least about 80% by weight of the powder system's flavor particle population contained within particles having a particle size in the range of about 50 microns to about 150 microns.

[0110] The flavor-containing particles may contain a compound that reduces adhesion or surface energy and the resulting agglomeration. The flavor particles may be surface-modified with an adhesion-reducing compound to form coated flavor particles. A preferred adhesion-reducing compound may be magnesium stearate. Providing an adhesion-reducing compound such as magnesium stearate to the flavor particles, particularly by coating the flavor particles, can reduce the adhesion of the flavor-containing particles and can reduce the attractive forces between the flavor particles, thereby reducing the agglomeration of the flavor particles. Consequently, the agglomeration of the flavor particles with the nicotine particles can also be reduced. Thus, even when nicotine particles are combined with flavor particles, the powder system described herein can have a stable relative particle size of the nicotine-containing particles and the flavor-containing particles. Preferably, the powder system is free-flowing.

[0111] In some embodiments, the active particles are in the form of a granule or a mixture of the active particles and the mixture is mixed. The active particles are mixed in ... Because the active particles may be too little so as not to be affected by the simple airflow through the inhaler, the conventional formulations for dry powder inhalation contain fluidized carrier particles in order to increase the active particles. The powder system may include carrier particles. These carrier particles can be sugars such as lactose or mannitol, which can have a particle size greater than approximately 50 microns. By serving as the diluent or bulking agent in the prescription, carrier particles can be used for improving dosage uniformity.

[0112] The powder system used with the nicotine powder delivery system described herein can be carrier-free or substantially free of sugars such as lactose or mannitol. The absence of a carrier or being substantially free of sugars such as lactose or mannitol can allow nicotine to be inhaled and delivered to the user's lungs at an inhalation rate or airflow rate similar to that of typical smoking.

[0113] Nicotine particles and flavorings can be combined in a single capsule. As described above, the nicotine particles and flavorings can each have reduced adhesion, thereby producing a stable particle formulation in which the particle size of each component is substantially unchanged upon combination. Alternatively, the powder system includes nicotine particles contained in a single capsule and flavoring particles contained in a second capsule.

[0114] The nicotine particles and the flavor particles may be combined in any effective relative amounts such that the flavor particles are perceived by the user when consumed with the nicotine particles. Preferably, the nicotine particles and the flavor particles form at least about 90% wt, or at least about 95% wt, or at least about 99% wt, or 100% wt of the total weight of the powder system.

[0115] Compared to conventional dry powder inhalers, inhalers and inhaler systems may be less complicated and have simplified airflow paths. Advantageously, the rotation of the capsule in the inhaler article aerosolizes the nicotine particles or the powder system and can contribute to maintaining free-flowing powder. Therefore, the inhaler article may not need the higher inhalation rates that conventional inhalers usually utilize to deeply deliver the nicotine particles described above to the lungs.

[0116] Inhaler articles can use a flow rate of less than about 5 L per minute, or less than about 3 L per minute, or less than about 2 L per minute, or about 1.6 L per minute. Preferably, the flow rate can be in the range of about 1 L per minute to about 3 L per minute, or about 1.5 L per minute to about 2.5 L per minute. Preferably, the inhalation rate or flow rate can be similar to the inhalation rate or flow rate of the Health Canada smoking pattern, i.e., about 1.6 L per minute.

[0117] The consumer can use the inhaler system like smoking a conventional cigarette or an electronic cigarette. This type of smoking or vaping can be characterized by two steps: a first step, during which a small amount containing the full amount of nicotine desired by the consumer is inhaled into the oral cavity; followed by a second step, during which the small amount containing an aerosol containing the desired amount of nicotine is further diluted by fresh air and inhaled more deeply into the lungs. Both steps are controlled by the consumer. During the first inhalation step, the consumer can determine the amount of nicotine to be inhaled. During the second step, the consumer can determine the amount to be inhaled more deeply into the lungs for diluting the first amount, thereby maximizing the concentration of the active agent delivered to the airway epithelial surface. This smoking mechanism is sometimes referred to as "puff-inhale-exhale".

[0118] The dry powder used with the dry powder inhaler of the present disclosure can eliminate or substantially reduce any exhalation of pharmaceutically active particles during the "exhale" phase. Preferably, substantially all, or at least about 99%, or at least about 95%, or at least 90% of the pharmaceutically active particles have a particle size that is delivered to the lungs but not small enough to be exhaled through tidal breathing. Such pharmaceutically active particle sizes can be in the range of about 0.75 microns to about 5 microns, or 0.8 microns to about 3 microns, or 0.8 microns to about 2 microns.

[0119] As described above, the inhaler article includes a holder portion, the holder portion including a hollow tubular element and a support member, the hollow tubular element having a length "l", a radius "r", a central axis and an inner surface defining an interior cavity (hollow tubular element), the support member being formed from a sheet material and extending from a first point and a second point at the inner surface into the interior cavity of the holder portion to form a triangular support member in the interior cavity of the holder portion.

[0120] The hollow tubular element of the holder part may be formed from a sheet of material.The hollow tubular element of the holder part and the support may be formed from separate sheets of material.

[0121] The holder portion may comprise a hollow tubular element or tube. The tube may be different from the sheet material forming the support member. The tube may be formed from the same material as the sheet material forming the support member, or from a different material. For example, the tube of the holder portion may comprise a tube of a different material than the sheet material forming the support member. The support member is a structure within the interior cavity of the holder portion. The support is formed from a sheet of material and includes a first fold, a first bend, a first leg, a second bend, a second leg, a third bend, and a second fold; wherein the first fold of the support includes a length, and wherein the first fold of the support contacts the inner surface of the retaining member portion; wherein the first leg of the support includes a length between the first bend and the second bend; wherein the second bend includes a tip; wherein the second leg of the support includes a length between the second bend and the third bend; wherein when the retaining member portion is viewed from the upstream end of the retaining member portion, the first leg, the second bend, and the second leg form two legs of a triangle extending into the internal cavity of the retaining member portion; wherein the support forms a second fold, wherein the second fold of the support includes a length that contacts the inner surface of the retaining member; wherein the length of at least one of the first leg and the second leg is greater than the radius of the retaining member portion.

[0122] The holder portion may comprise a hollow tubular element or tube. The tube may be different from the sheet material forming the support member. The tube may be formed from the same material as the sheet material forming the support member, or from a different material. For example, the tube of the holder portion may comprise a tube of a different material than the sheet material forming the support member. The support member is a structure within the interior cavity of the holder portion. The support is formed from a sheet of material and includes a first fold, a first bend, a first leg, a second bend, a second leg, a third bend, and a second fold; wherein the first fold of the support includes a length, and wherein the first fold of the support contacts the inner surface of the retaining member portion; wherein the first leg of the support includes a length between the first bend and the second bend; wherein the second bend includes a tip; wherein the second leg of the support includes a length between the second bend and the third bend; wherein when the retaining member portion is viewed from the upstream end of the retaining member portion, the first leg, the second bend, and the second leg form two legs of a triangle extending into the internal cavity of the retaining member portion; wherein the support forms a second fold, wherein the second fold of the support includes a length that contacts the inner surface of the retaining member; wherein the lengths of both the first leg and the second leg are greater than the radius of the retaining member portion.

[0123] The first leg and the second leg can be equal to each other within manufacturing tolerances. For example, the tip of the support member can be spaced ±0.5 mm from the central axis of the holder portion. The tip of the support member can be spaced ±0.5 mm to the left or right of the central axis, and the first leg and the second leg can still be considered equal within manufacturing tolerances.

[0124] The first and second flaps of the support may be attached to the hollow tubular element of the holder portion by an adhesive, wherein the first and second flaps of the support are in contact with the tube of the holder portion.

[0125] The hollow tubular element may form the outer structure of the holder portion. Substantially the entire portion of the sheet material forming the hollow tubular element may form the outer surface of the holder portion. The outer surface of the holder portion may be curved. The holder portion may be cylindrical.

[0126] The support element may extend along a portion of the length of the holder portion. Preferably, the support member is flush with the upstream end of the holder portion. This means that the support member may be at the end of the holder portion closest to the sac. Thus, the support element may be able to better prevent or limit movement of the sac (for example, when the sac is pierced). Preferably, the support element extends to the downstream end of the holder portion. The support element may extend between approximately 10% and approximately 100% of the length of the holder portion, preferably between approximately 25% and approximately 100% of the length of the holder portion, more preferably between approximately 50% and approximately 100% of the length of the holder portion. Most preferably, the support element extends along substantially the entire length of the holder portion. Thus, the support element may have a length equal to the length of the holder portion. This can provide additional mechanical strength and rigidity to the holder portion along the entire length of the holder portion.

[0127] The first and second flaps of the support member can be attached to the inner surface of the holder portion. At the first and third bends, the support member extends into the interior cavity of the holder portion when the holder portion is viewed from its upstream end. Advantageously, this simplifies the manufacture of the holder portion and provides a suitable support barrier for one or more matrix components (such as a bladder) disposed upstream of the holder portion.

[0128] The first and second flaps of the support member can be attached to the inner surface of the holder portion using an adhesive. The use of an adhesive can help improve the mechanical strength of the holder portion in one or both of the longitudinal and transverse directions. This can thereby help improve the holder portion's ability to provide a support barrier and its resistance to collapse or deformation.

[0129] The support member material sheet extends from the inner surface of the retaining portion at a first bend and a third bend. The first leg and the second leg form two sides of a triangle extending into the interior cavity of the retaining portion. The first leg and the second leg form an angle at the second bend. The second bend forms a tip. The tip may include an angle less than 90 degrees. The tip may include an angle less than 70 degrees. The tip may include an angle less than 67.5 degrees. The tip may include an angle less than 45 degrees. The tip may include an angle less than 40 degrees. The tip may include an angle between 22 degrees and 68 degrees. The tip may include an angle between 22.5 degrees and 67.5 degrees. The tip may include an angle between 30 degrees and 45 degrees. The tip may include an angle between 30 degrees and 44 degrees. The tip may include an angle between 32.5 degrees and 43.5 degrees. The tip may include an angle of 37.5 degrees ± 5 degrees. The tip may include an angle of 37.5 degrees.

[0130] The holder portion is constructed and arranged to provide sufficient mechanical strength and rigidity for the holder portion in one or both of the longitudinal and transverse directions to prevent or limit movement of one or more components (such as a capsule) disposed upstream of the holder portion without significant deformation of the holder portion during use of the inhaler article. This mechanical strength and rigidity or stiffness of the holder portion also supports the inhaler article when the inhaler article is manufactured, packaged, transported, removed from the package, inserted into the holder, used, and discarded.

[0131] The first flap and the second flap each have a length. Preferably, the first flap and the second flap have approximately equal lengths. Advantageously, the first flap and the second flap having approximately equal lengths provide approximately equal reinforcement to the holder portion along the length of the first flap and along the length of the second flap. The length of the first flap and the second flap may be approximately equal to the radius of the holder portion. The length of the first flap and the second flap may be less than the radius of the holder portion. Preferably, the length of the first flap and the second flap is less than the radius of the holder portion. The length of the first flap and the second flap may, for example, be less than 4.5 mm, wherein the diameter of the inhaler product is approximately 7 mm. The length of the first flap and the second flap may be between 2 mm and 4.5 mm. The length of the first flap and the second flap may be between 2 mm and 4 mm. The length of the first flap and the second flap may be between 2.3 mm and 3.5 mm. The length of the first flap and the second flap may be between 2.5 mm and 3.3 mm. The length of the first flap and the second flap may be 2.7 mm ± 1 mm. The length of the first flap and the second flap may be 2.7 mm. The present inventors have found that if the length of the first and second flaps is less than the radius of the holder, the holder portion maintains its circular shape, or is less likely to deform from a circle.

[0132] The first curved portion of the support member and the third curved portion of the support member may be spaced apart from each other. The first curved portion and the second curved portion may be spaced apart by less than 4 mm. The first curved portion and the second curved portion may be spaced apart by less than 3 mm. The first curved portion and the second curved portion may be spaced apart by 2 mm to 4 mm. The first curved portion and the second curved portion may be spaced apart by 2.25 mm to 2 mm. The first curved portion and the second curved portion may be spaced apart by 2.5 mm to 3 mm. The first curved portion and the second curved portion may be spaced apart by 2.7 mm ± 1 mm. The first curved portion and the second curved portion may be spaced apart by 2.7 mm.

[0133] The first bend and the second bend may be spaced apart from each other by less than 30% of the circumference of the holder portion. The first bend and the second bend may be spaced apart from each other by less than 25% of the circumference of the holder portion. The first bend and the second bend may be spaced apart from each other by less than 20% of the circumference of the holder portion. The first bend and the second bend may be spaced apart from each other by 10% to 30% of the circumference of the holder portion. The first bend and the second bend may be spaced apart from each other by 15% to 30% of the circumference of the holder portion. The first bend and the second bend may be spaced apart from each other by 20% to 30% of the circumference of the holder portion.

[0134] The first bend at the inner surface of the retaining portion and the third bend at the inner surface of the hollow tubular element of the retaining portion may be spaced apart from each other around the circumference of the retaining portion by about 5% to about 50% of the circumference of the retaining portion, preferably by about 10% to about 40% of the circumference of the retaining portion, and more preferably by about 15% to about 30% of the circumference of the retaining portion.

[0135] The first and second flaps may be attached to the inner surface of the holder portion. The first and second flaps may be attached to the inner surface of the hollow tubular element of the holder portion using an adhesive. The use of an adhesive can help improve the mechanical strength of the holder portion in one or both of the longitudinal and transverse directions. This can thereby help improve the holder portion's resistance to collapse or deformation, thereby increasing its rigidity.

[0136] The support member may include a tip positioned within the interior cavity of the holder portion. The tip is the second bend. The second bend is the tip. The tip may extend through the length of the first leg and the second leg into the interior cavity of the holder portion. The tip is angled at the intersection of the first leg and the second leg. The tip may be spaced apart from the interior surface of the holder at the first bend by the length of the first leg. The tip may be spaced apart from the interior surface of the holder at the second bend by the length of the second leg. At least one of the first leg or the second leg is longer than a radius of the holder portion.

[0137] The first leg or the second leg, or both the first leg and the second leg, may be approximately 0.2 mm or greater longer than the radius of the holder portion. The first leg or the second leg, or both the first leg and the second leg, may be approximately 0.5 mm or greater longer than the radius of the holder portion. The first leg or the second leg, or both the first leg and the second leg, may be approximately 1 mm or greater longer than the radius of the holder portion.

[0138] The first leg or the second leg, or both the first leg and the second leg, may be approximately 3 mm or less longer than the radius of the holder portion. The first leg or the second leg, or both the first leg and the second leg, may be approximately 2.5 mm or less longer than the radius of the holder portion. The first leg or the second leg, or both the first leg and the second leg, may be approximately 2 mm or less longer than the radius of the holder portion.

[0139] The first leg or the second leg, or both the first leg and the second leg, can be about 0.2 mm to about 3 mm longer than the radius of the holder portion. The first leg or the second leg, or both the first leg and the second leg, can be about 0.5 mm to about 2.5 mm longer than the radius of the holder portion. The first leg or the second leg, or both the first leg and the second leg, can be about 1 mm to about 2 mm longer than the radius of the holder portion. The first leg or the second leg, or both the first leg and the second leg, can be about 1.5 mm longer than the radius of the holder portion. The tip can be located at a point adjacent to a point at the inner surface of the hollow tubular element of the holder portion. The tip can contact the inner surface of the hollow tubular element of the holder portion. The tip can be positioned approximately equidistant from the first bend and the third bend.

[0140] As used herein, the term "radial center" refers to the center of the cross-section of the holder portion and is identical to the central axis. The tip can be pointed. For example, the support element can have a substantially triangular cross-section, where the tip is the vertex of the triangle that extends into the interior cavity of the holder portion.

[0141] The term "substantially triangular" is used to describe the shape of the first leg, the second bend (or tip), and the second leg, which form a shape that can be described as two sides of a triangle extending into the interior cavity of the hollow tubular portion. The first leg of the support includes a length between the first bend and the second bend. The second bend includes the tip. The second leg of the support includes a length between the second bend and the third bend. When the holder portion is viewed from the upstream end of the holder portion, the first leg, the second bend, and the second leg form two legs of a triangle extending into the interior cavity of the holder portion.

[0142] The term "substantially triangular" is used for purposes of describing the support. When describing the "substantially triangular" shape of the support, the third side of the triangle may not be present. Alternatively, the third side of the "substantially triangular" shape may be an imaginary line between the first bend and the third bend. Alternatively, the third side of the "substantially triangular" shape may be formed by the inner surface of the hollow tubular element, although this causes the third side of the triangle to be curved. However, the shape of the support extending into the interior cavity of the retainer portion is best described as being two sides of a triangle. However, although the support may not form a three sided triangle, the first leg, the second bend (or tip) and the second leg form two sides of a triangular protrusion extending into the interior cavity of the retainer portion.

[0143] The support does not form a true triangle (defined as a closed 2-dimensional shape having three sides, three angles, and 3 vertices) because the support does not connect the first bend and the second bend to form the third side of the triangle. Instead, the support extends along the inner surface of the hollow tubular portion at the first bend and the third bend to form the first flap and the second flap. However, although the support may not form a three-sided triangle, the first leg, the second bend (or tip), and the second leg form two sides of a triangular protrusion that extends into the interior cavity of the retainer portion. That is, when the retainer portion is viewed from the upstream end of the retainer portion, the first leg, the second bend, and the second leg form two legs of a triangle that extends into the interior cavity of the retainer portion.

[0144] The support element may include three bends. That is, the sheet forming the support element may include a first bend at the inner surface of the hollow tubular element of the holder portion, a second bend at a pointed end, and a third bend at a second point on the inner surface of the hollow tubular element of the holder portion. This may further strengthen the holder portion in one or both of the longitudinal and transverse directions, enabling the holder portion to withstand larger forces applied to the holder portion in one or both of the longitudinal and transverse directions before significantly deforming. This may thereby improve the holder portion's ability to prevent or limit movement of one or more components (such as a bladder) disposed upstream of the holder portion.

[0145] The tip of the support member can be positioned approximately equidistant from the first and third bends. The tip can be positioned closer to the first bend than to the third bend. In other words, the first and second legs can have different lengths. Preferably, the first and second legs have the same or substantially the same length. The first and second legs can be substantially planar. In other words, the first and second legs can be non-curved.

[0146] Thus, when viewing the holder portion from its upstream end, a cross-section of the holder portion may show a triangle extending into the interior cavity of the holder portion.

[0147] The support may be completely enclosed by the hollow tubular element of the holder part and thus not form an outer surface of the holder part.

[0148] The angle defined by the intersection (second bend or tip) of the first leg and the second leg may be approximately 50 degrees or less. The angle defined by the intersection (second bend or tip) of the first leg and the second leg may be approximately 45 degrees or less. The angle defined by the intersection (second bend or tip) of the first leg and the second leg may be approximately 35 degrees or less. The angle defined by the intersection (second bend or tip) of the first leg and the second leg may be between approximately 5 degrees and approximately 50 degrees. The angle defined by the intersection (second bend or tip) of the first leg and the second leg may be between approximately 10 degrees and approximately 45 degrees. The angle defined by the intersection (second bend or tip) of the first leg and the second leg may be between approximately 15 degrees and approximately 40 degrees. The angle defined by the intersection (second bend or tip) of the first leg and the second leg may be between approximately 20 degrees and approximately 40 degrees. The angle defined by the intersection (second bend or tip) of the first leg and the second leg may be between approximately 25 degrees and 40 degrees. The angle defined by the intersection of the first leg and the second leg (the second bend or tip) may be between about 35 degrees and about 42 degrees. The angle defined by the intersection of the first leg and the second leg (the second bend or tip) may be between about 32.5 degrees and 43.5 degrees. The angle defined by the intersection of the first leg and the second leg (the second bend or tip) may be 37.5 degrees ± 5 degrees.

[0149] The first flap of the support member includes a length that contacts the inner surface of the retaining member portion. The second flap of the support member includes a length that contacts the inner surface of the retaining member portion. The first flap and the second flap of the support member contact the inner surface of the retaining member portion. The first flap of the support member can be attached to the inner surface of the retaining member portion by an adhesive. The second flap of the support member can be attached to the inner surface of the retaining member portion by an adhesive. The first flap and the second flap of the support member can be attached to the inner surface of the retaining member portion by an adhesive. The use of an adhesive can help improve the mechanical strength of the retaining member portion in one or both of the longitudinal and transverse directions. Thus, this can help improve the resistance of the retaining member portion to collapse or deform, as well as the ability of the retaining member portion to prevent or limit the movement of one or more components (such as a sac) disposed upstream of the retaining member portion. In addition, the triangular shape formed by the first leg, the second curved portion, and the third leg can help improve the mechanical strength of the retaining member portion in one or both of the longitudinal and transverse directions. Thus, this may help improve the holder portion's resistance to collapse or deformation, as well as the holder portion's ability to prevent or limit movement of one or more components disposed upstream of the holder portion, such as a bladder.

[0150] The holder part can comprise at least one longitudinal plane of symmetry.The holder part can be radially symmetrical.This can simplify the assembling of inhaler goods, because the holder part is arranged to the orientation in the inhaler goods and may be less important.In addition, this may also mean that the holder part can more evenly distribute the load, to be able to withstand the power of the increase that is applied to the holder part.

[0151] Preferably, the cross-sectional area of ​​the holder portion is substantially constant along the entire length of the holder portion. This can make the suction resistance of the inhaler article also constant along the entire length of the holder portion.

[0152] Preferably, the holder portion has a substantially constant cross-section along its entire length. That is, the cross-section of the holder portion does not substantially vary along its entire length. This can simplify the manufacture of the holder portion. Alternatively, the cross-section of the holder portion can vary along its length. For example, the support member can have a cross-section that varies along the length of the holder portion. For example, the support member may not extend along the entire length of the holder portion.

[0153] The support member can divide the hollow interior area of ​​the holder portion into a plurality of channels. The number of channels can be selected based on the desired nucleation of aerosol particles and the desired suction resistance of the inhaler product. The support element can divide the cavity of the holder portion into two channels. When the tip does not contact the inner surface of the holder, the support element divides the cavity of the holder portion into two channels. The support element can divide the cavity of the holder portion into three channels. If the tip of the support member contacts the inner surface of the holder portion, the cavity can be divided into three channels.

[0154] The tip of the support element may be spaced apart from the radial center of the holder portion by a distance of about 5% or more of the radius of the holder portion. The tip of the support element may be spaced apart from the radial center of the holder portion by a distance of about 5% or more of the radius of the holder portion, or by about 10% or more of the radius of the holder portion. The tip of the support element may be spaced apart from the radial center of the holder portion by a distance of about 5% or more of the radius of the holder portion, or by about 15% or more of the radius of the holder portion.

[0155] The tip of the support member may be spaced apart from the radial center of the holder portion by a distance of about 5% or more of the radius of the holder portion and by a distance of about 90% or less of the radius of the holder portion. The tip of the support member may be spaced apart from the radial center of the holder portion by a distance of about 5% or more of the radius of the holder portion and by a distance of about 80% or less of the radius of the holder portion. The tip of the support member may be spaced apart from the radial center of the holder portion by a distance of about 5% or more of the radius of the holder portion and by a distance of about 70% or less of the radius of the holder portion.

[0156] The tip of the support member may be spaced from the radial center of the holder portion by a distance between about 5% and about 90% of the radius of the holder portion. The tip of the support member may be spaced from the radial center of the holder portion by a distance between about 10% and about 80% of the radius of the holder portion. The tip of the support member may be spaced from the radial center of the holder portion by a distance between about 15% and about 70% of the radius of the holder portion.

[0157] The tip of the support member may be spaced apart from the radial center of the holder portion by a distance of about 0.2 mm or more. The tip of the support member may be spaced apart from the radial center of the holder portion by a distance of about 0.5 mm or more. The tip of the support member may be spaced apart from the radial center of the holder portion by a distance of about 1 mm or more. The tip of the support member may be spaced apart from the radial center of the holder portion by a distance of about 1.2 mm ± 0.5 mm.

[0158] The tip of the support member may be spaced apart from the radial center of the holder portion by about 3 mm or less. The tip of the support member may be spaced apart from the radial center of the holder portion by about 2.5 mm or less. The tip of the support member may be spaced apart from the radial center of the holder portion by about 2 mm or less. The tip of the support member may be spaced apart from the radial center of the holder portion by about 1.5 mm or less.

[0159] The tip of the support member may be spaced apart from the radial center of the holder portion by a distance between about 0.2 mm and about 3 mm. The tip of the support member may be spaced apart from the radial center of the holder portion by a distance between about 0.5 mm and about 2.5 mm. The tip of the support member may be spaced apart from the radial center of the holder portion by a distance of about 1 mm. The tip of the support member may be spaced apart from the radial center of the holder portion by a distance of about 2 mm. The tip of the support member may be spaced apart from the radial center of the holder portion by a distance between about 0.5 mm and about 1 mm.

[0160] The support element may have a depth approximately equal to the inner radius of the holder portion. That is, at least one of the first leg and the second leg may have a length greater than the radius of the holder portion. The first leg and the second leg may have a length greater than the radius of the holder portion.

[0161] As used herein, the term "depth" refers to the distance between the first bend at the inner surface of the retaining member and the tip (second bend) of the support member. This is the length of the first leg. Alternatively, "depth" refers to the distance between the tip (second bend) and the third bend. This is the length of the second leg. Thus, the term "depth" refers to the length of either the first leg or the second leg. The first leg and the second leg may have substantially equal lengths.

[0162] The support element may be the only support element of the holder part. That is to say, the holder part may comprise a single support element.

[0163] Preferably, the holder portion has an outer diameter substantially equal to the outer diameter of the inhaler article.

[0164] The holder portion may have an outer diameter of about 5 mm or greater. The holder portion may have an outer diameter of about 6 mm or greater. The holder portion may have an outer diameter of about 7 mm or greater. The holder portion may have an outer diameter of about 12 mm or less. The holder portion may have an outer diameter of about 10 mm or less. The holder portion may have an outer diameter of about 8 mm or less.

[0165] The holder portion may have an outer diameter between about 5 mm and about 12 mm. The holder portion may have an outer diameter between about 6 mm and about 10 mm. The holder portion may have an outer diameter between about 7 mm and about 8 mm. The holder portion may have an outer diameter of about 7.2 mm.

[0166] The hollow tubular element of the holder portion has a thickness. Therefore, the inner diameter of the holder portion can be smaller than the outer diameter of the holder portion. The holder portion can have an inner diameter of about 4.5 mm or greater. The holder portion can have an inner diameter of about 5.5 mm or greater. The holder portion can have an inner diameter of about 6.5 mm or greater. The holder portion can have an inner diameter of about 11.5 mm or less. The holder portion can have an inner diameter of about 9.5 mm or less. The holder portion can have an inner diameter of about 7.5 mm or less. The holder portion can have an inner diameter between about 4.5 mm and about 11.5 mm. The holder portion can have an inner diameter between about 5.5 mm and about 9.5 mm. The holder portion can have an inner diameter between about 6.5 mm and about 7.5 mm.

[0167] The hollow tubular elements of the retainer portion may have a total inner surface area of ​​about 25 square millimeters per millimeter length or greater, preferably about 28 square millimeters per millimeter length or greater, more preferably about 30 square millimeters per millimeter length or greater, or about 35 square millimeters per millimeter length or greater.

[0168] The hollow tubular elements of the retainer portion may have a total inner surface area of ​​about 70 square millimeters per millimeter length or less, preferably about 60 square millimeters per millimeter length or less, more preferably about 50 square millimeters per millimeter length or less, or about 40 square millimeters per millimeter length or less.

[0169] The hollow tubular element of the holder portion may have a total inner surface area of ​​between about 25 square millimeters per millimeter of length and about 70 square millimeters per millimeter of length, preferably between about 28 square millimeters per millimeter of length and about 60 square millimeters per millimeter of length, more preferably between about 30 square millimeters per millimeter of length and about 50 square millimeters per millimeter of length, or between about 30 square millimeters per millimeter of length and about 40 square millimeters per millimeter of length. The hollow tubular element of the holder portion may have a total inner surface area of ​​between about 35 square millimeters per millimeter of length and about 70 square millimeters per millimeter of length, preferably between about 40 square millimeters per millimeter of length and about 70 square millimeters per millimeter of length, more preferably between about 50 square millimeters per millimeter of length and about 70 square millimeters per millimeter of length, or between about 60 square millimeters per millimeter of length and about 70 square millimeters per millimeter of length.

[0170] The holder portion can provide an unrestricted flow channel. This means that the hollow tubular segment preferably provides a negligible level of resistance to suction (RTD). The term "negligible level of RTD" is used to describe an RTD of less than 1 mmH2O / 10 mm length of the holder portion, preferably less than 0.4 mmH2O / 10 mm length of the holder portion, more preferably less than 0.1 mmH2O / 10 mm length of the holder portion. The profile of the support member, which is in the shape of a triangle extending into the internal cavity of the holder portion when the holder portion is observed from the upstream end of the holder portion, provides negligible obstruction to the flow of air and particles through the holder portion. Therefore, the flow channel is substantially free of any components that would obstruct the flow of air in the longitudinal direction. Preferably, the flow channel is substantially empty.

[0171] The holder portion may have a porosity of about 90% or greater in the longitudinal direction.

[0172] As used herein, the porosity of the holder portion in the longitudinal direction is defined by the ratio of the cross-sectional area of ​​the material forming the holder portion to the internal cross-sectional area of ​​the inhaler article at the location of the holder portion.

[0173] Advantageously, the porosity of the holder portion in the longitudinal direction may be selected so as to provide a desired overall resistance to draw of the inhaler article.

[0174] The porosity on the longitudinal direction of the holder part can be constant basically along the whole length of the holder part.For example, the cross-sectional area that forms the material of the holder part can be constant basically along the whole length of the holder part, and the inhaler goods also can have the internal cross-sectional area that is constant basically along the whole length of the holder part.The holder part can have the cross section that is constant basically along the whole length of the holder part, makes that the cross-sectional area that forms the material of the holder part is constant basically along the whole length of the holder part.The holder part can also have the cross section along the length variation of the holder part, and the cross-sectional area of ​​the material that forms the holder part that is constant basically along the whole length of the holder part.

[0175] The porosity of the holder portion in the longitudinal direction may vary along the length of the holder portion. This may be the case, for example, where the holder portion does not have a constant cross-section along the entire length of the holder portion, so that the cross-sectional area of ​​the material forming the holder portion varies along the length of the holder portion.

[0176] The materials forming one or both of the support member and the hollow tubular element of the holder portion can be the same or different materials. Each of the holder portion and the support member can be formed from paper, any other paper-based material, any other cellulose-based material, a bioplastic-based material, or metal. For example, the holder portion and the support member can be formed from one or more of paper, paperboard, cardboard, recycled tobacco paper, cellophane, and aluminum.

[0177] The support member is formed from a sheet of material. The holder portion may also be formed from a sheet of material. The sheet forming the support member may be the same as or different from the sheet forming the holder portion. Preferably, the sheet is formed from a biodegradable material.

[0178] The sheet material can be formed by paper base material (such as paper, paperboard or cardboard). The paper base material can be bleached or unbleached. The paper base material can be one or more of light, cheap and biodegradable. When one or both of the supporting element and the hollow tubular element were formed by paper sheet material, the holder part can prevent or limit the movement of one or more parts (such as capsule) arranged on the upstream of the holder part during the interaction of the inhaler article and the retainer that is used to receive the inhaler article, and shows enough mechanical strength and rigidity to bear significant deformation simultaneously.

[0179] The sheet material forming one or both of the holder portion and the support member may have a basis weight (grams per square meter or gsm) of about 15 gsm or greater, preferably about 25 gsm or greater, more preferably about 35 gsm or greater, or about 45 gsm or greater. A sheet material having such a basis weight may avoid forming one or both of cracks and breakage during one or both of bending and folding of the sheet material. Thus, the sheet material may maintain its structural integrity when being bent or folded to form the support element. This may improve the holder portion's resistance to collapse or deformation, as well as the holder portion's ability to prevent or restrict movement of one or both of at least a portion of the aerosol-forming substrate and at least a portion of the susceptor element.

[0180] The sheet material forming one or both of the holder portion and the support member can have a basis weight of about 150 gsm or less, preferably about 130 gsm or less, more preferably about 110 gsm or less, or about 80 gsm or less, or about 50 gsm or less. Providing a sheet material with this basis weight can advantageously ensure that the holder portion has a desired porosity in the longitudinal direction. This can also provide the holder portion with a desired suction resistance. In addition, providing a sheet material with this basis weight can advantageously make the holder portion easier to manufacture, for example, by making the sheet material easier to at least one of roll, bend, and fold.

[0181] The sheet forming one or both of the holder portion and the support may have a basis weight of between about 15 gsm and about 150 gsm, between about 20 gsm and about 130 gsm, between about 60 gsm and about 100 gsm, between about 70 gsm and about 80 gsm.

[0182] The support may be made from a sheet of material having a thickness between 250 and 200 microns. The support may be made from a sheet of material having a thickness less than 250 microns. The support may be made from a sheet of material having a thickness less than 125 microns. The support may be made from a sheet of material having a thickness between 250 and 125 microns. The support may be made from a sheet of material having a thickness between 250 and 100 microns. The support may be made from a sheet of material having a thickness between 200 and 100 microns. The support may be made from a sheet of material having a thickness less than 150 microns. The support may be made from a sheet of material having a thickness of approximately 100 microns. The support may be made from a sheet of material having a thickness less than 125 microns. The support may be made from a sheet of material having a thickness between 150 and 100 microns. The support may be made from a sheet of material having a thickness between 140 and 100 microns. The support may be made from a sheet of material having a thickness between 125 and 100 microns. The support may be made from a sheet of material having a thickness between 120 and 130 microns. The support may be made from a sheet of material having a thickness between 75 and 125 microns. The support may be made from a sheet of material having a thickness between 75 and 140 microns. The support may be made from a sheet of material having a thickness between 75 and 150 microns.

[0183] A support material having a thickness of 250 microns or less is considered thin. Similarly, a support material having a thickness of 200 microns or less is considered relatively thin.

[0184] The support may be made from a sheet of material having a grammage (or weight) of 250 gsm (grams per square meter) or less. The support may be made from a sheet of material having a weight of 200 gsm or less. The support may be made from a sheet of material having a weight of 175 gsm or less. The support may be made from a sheet of material having a weight of 170 gsm or less. The support may be made from a sheet of material having a weight of 150 gsm or less. The support may be made from a sheet of material having a weight of 140 gsm or less. The support may be made from a sheet of material having a weight of 130 gsm or less. The support may be made from a sheet of material having a weight of 125 gsm or less. The support may be made from a sheet of material having a weight of 100 gsm or less. The support may be made from a sheet of material having a weight between 50 gsm and 250 gsm. The support may be made from a sheet of material having a weight between 50 gsm and 200 gsm. The support member may be made from a sheet of material weighing between 50 gsm and 200 gsm. The support member may be made from a sheet of material weighing between 50 gsm and 175 gsm. The support member may be made from a sheet of material weighing between 50 gsm and 175 gsm. The support member may be made from a sheet of material weighing between 75 gsm and 200 gsm. The support member may be made from a sheet of material weighing between 160 gsm and 180 gsm. The support member may be made from a sheet of material weighing approximately 170 gsm. The support member may be made from a sheet of material weighing less than 170 gsm. The support member may be made from a sheet of material weighing between 90 gsm and 110 gsm. The support member may be made from a sheet of material weighing approximately 100 gsm. The support member may be made from a sheet of material weighing between 68 gsm and 88 gsm. The support member may be made from a sheet of material weighing approximately 78 gsm. The support may be made from a sheet of material weighing approximately 80 gsm.

[0185] The support may be made of paper having a thickness of 124 microns and a grammage of 170 gsm. The support may be made of paper having a thickness of 125 microns and a grammage of 100 gsm. The support may be made of paper having a thickness of 100 microns and a weight of 78 gsm.

[0186] The sheet material forming the support may have a basis weight of between about 70 grams per square meter (gsm) and 200 gsm. The sheet material forming the support may have a basis weight of between 75 and 200 gsm. The sheet material forming the support may have a basis weight of between 75 and 125 gsm. The sheet material forming the support may have a basis weight of between 90 and 180 gsm. The sheet material forming the support may have a basis weight of between 90 and 120 gsm. The sheet material forming the support may have a basis weight of between 70 and 90 gsm. The sheet material forming the support may have a basis weight of between about 45 gsm and about 110 gsm. The sheet material forming the support may have a basis weight of about 45 gsm. The sheet material forming the support may have a basis weight of about 60 gsm. The sheet material forming the support may have a basis weight of about 78 gsm. The sheet material forming the support may have a basis weight of 100 gsm. The sheet material forming the support may have a basis weight of 110 gsm. The sheet material forming the support may have a basis weight of 170 gsm. Providing a sheet material having this basis weight may advantageously make the holder portion easier to manufacture, for example, by making the sheet material easier to at least one of roll, bend, and fold.

[0187] The sheet material forming one or both of the holder portion and the support may have a thickness of about 15 microns or greater, about 30 microns or greater, or about 45 microns or greater. The sheet material forming one or both of the holder portion and the support may have a thickness of about 100 microns or greater. The sheet material forming one or both of the holder portion and the support may have a thickness between 100 and 130 microns. The sheet material forming one or both of the holder portion and the support may have a thickness of about 124 microns. The sheet material forming one or both of the holder portion and the support may have a thickness of about 125 microns. A sheet material with this thickness can avoid forming one or both of cracks and breakage during one or both of the bending and folding of the sheet material. Thus, the sheet material can maintain its structural integrity when being bent or folded to form the support element. This may improve the holder portion's resistance to collapse or deformation, and its ability to prevent or restrict movement of one or both of at least a portion of the aerosol-forming substrate and at least a portion of the susceptor element.

[0188] The sheet material forming one or both of the holder portion and the support member may have a thickness of approximately 150 microns or less, preferably approximately 140 microns or less, and more preferably approximately 130 microns or less. Providing a sheet material having this thickness advantageously ensures that the holder portion has a desired porosity in the longitudinal direction. This can also result in the holder portion having a desired suction resistance. Furthermore, providing a sheet material having this basis weight advantageously makes the holder portion easier to manufacture, for example by making the sheet material easier to at least one of roll, bend, and fold.

[0189] The sheet forming one or both of the holder portion and the support may have a thickness between about 15 microns and about 150 microns, preferably between about 30 microns and about 140 microns, more preferably between about 90 microns and about 130 microns.

[0190] The sheet forming the support may have a thickness between about 15 microns and about 150 microns, preferably between about 30 microns and about 140 microns, and more preferably between about 90 microns and about 130 microns. Providing a sheet having this basis weight can advantageously make the holder portion easier to manufacture, for example, by making the sheet easier to at least one of roll, bend, and fold.

[0191] Where the sheet material forming one or both of the holder portion and the support member is an aluminum sheet, the sheet material may have a thickness between about 10 and about 20 microns. Aluminum sheet material having this thickness can advantageously make the holder portion easier to manufacture, for example by making the sheet material easier to at least one of roll, bend, and fold. Furthermore, aluminum sheet material having this thickness can provide the holder portion with sufficient strength and rigidity to prevent or resist movement of one or more components (such as a bladder) disposed upstream of the holder portion, while also preventing deformation of the holder portion. Furthermore, aluminum sheet material having this basis weight can advantageously ensure that the holder portion has a desired porosity in the longitudinal direction.

[0192] The hollow tubular element of the holder portion may have a thickness of about 15 microns or greater, about 45 microns or greater, or about 100 microns or greater. Providing a holder portion having such a thickness may provide the holder portion with sufficient strength and rigidity to prevent or resist movement of one or both of the first element and the susceptor element while preventing deformation of the holder portion.

[0193] The hollow tubular element of the holder portion can have a thickness of approximately 600 microns or less, approximately 500 microns or less, or approximately 400 microns or less. Providing a holder portion with a hollow tubular element of this thickness can advantageously ensure that the holder portion has a desired porosity in the longitudinal direction. This can also provide the holder portion with a desired suction resistance. Furthermore, providing a holder portion of this thickness can easily cut individual holder portions from a continuous strip of the holder portion, simplifying the manufacture of the holder portion.

[0194] The hollow tubular element of the holder portion may have a thickness between about 15 microns and about 600 microns, between about 50 microns and about 500 microns, between about 100 microns and about 400 microns. Preferably, the hollow tubular element of the holder portion hollow tubular element has a thickness between about 100 microns and about 130 microns.

[0195] The inventors of the present invention have discovered that a retainer portion having a hardness of at least about 90% can enable the retainer portion to prevent or limit movement of one or more components (such as a capsule) disposed upstream of the retainer portion during interaction between the inhaler article and the retainer while avoiding significant deformation.

[0196] As used herein, the term "hardness" refers to resistance to deformation. Hardness is generally expressed as a percentage. FIG21 shows a holder portion 50 before a load F is applied and the same holder portion 52 when a load F is applied. The holder portion 50 before the load F is applied has an outer diameter D S The holder portion 52 after application of the set load for the set duration (but still with the load applied) has a (reduced) outer diameter D d The depression is d=D S -D d Referring to Figure 21, the hardness is given by:

[0197]

[0198] Among them D S is the original (unrecessed) retainer portion outer diameter, and D d It is the outside diameter of the depression after a set load is applied for a set duration.The harder the retainer part, the closer the hardness is to 100%.

[0199] As described in more detail below, to determine the hardness of a holder part, the holder parts should be aligned parallel in a plane, and the same portion of each holder part to be tested should be subjected to a set load for a set duration. This test is a DD60A test and is performed using a known DD60A densitometer device (manufactured and commercially available by Heinr. Borgwaldt GmbH, Germany), which is equipped with a measuring head for the holder part and a holder part receptacle.

[0200] The load is applied using two load-applying cylindrical bars that extend simultaneously across the diameter of all holder portions. According to the standard test method for this instrument, the test should be performed so that twenty points of contact occur between the holder portions and the load-applying cylindrical bars. In some cases, the holder portions to be tested may be long enough so that only ten holder portions are required to form twenty points of contact, with each holder portion contacting two load-applying bars (because they are long enough to extend between the bars). In other cases, as discussed further below, if the holder portions are too short to achieve this, twenty points of contact should be formed using twenty holder portions, with each holder portion contacting only one of the load-applying bars.

[0201] Two further stationary cylindrical bars are located below the holder portion to support the holder portion and to react the loads applied by each of the load applying cylindrical bars.Such an arrangement will be described in more detail below.

[0202] The hardness of the holder part of inhaler products may not have too big difference between the holder part in the inhaler products that have consumed and the holder part in the unused inhaler products.Yet the standard method in order to measure the hardness of the holder part is when the holder part is not a part for the inhaler products that have consumed.

[0203] The hardness of the holder part can be at least about 90%.Preferably, the hardness of the holder part is at least about 92%.This provides even better resistance to movement for one or more parts (such as capsule) that are arranged on the upstream of the holder part.This also provides even better resistance to deformation for the holder part during the interaction of inhaler products and retainer.

[0204] A holder portion having a low total weight has the advantage that the holder portion can be assembled into an inhaler article using high-speed machines and processes. In particular, the inventors have discovered that a holder portion having a total weight of about 150 mg or less can be advantageously assembled into an inhaler article using existing high-speed inhaler article assembly machines.

[0205] The holder part can have approximately 150 milligrams or less, preferably approximately 100 milligrams or less, more preferably approximately 70 milligrams or less gross weight. The holder part can have approximately 15 milligrams and approximately 150 milligrams, preferably approximately 20 milligrams and approximately 100 milligrams, approximately 25 milligrams and approximately 70 milligrams gross weight. The holder part can have approximately 34 milligrams gross weight. The holder part can have approximately 76 milligrams gross weight. The holder part can have approximately 10 milligrams / mm length holder part or less, preferably approximately 8 milligrams / mm length holder part or less, more preferably approximately 6 milligrams / mm length holder part or less average weight. The holder part with this average weight is provided and can advantageously enable to use existing high-speed inhaler product assembly machine that the holder part is assembled into the inhaler product. The holder portion may have an average weight of about 1 to about 10 mg / mm length of the holder portion, preferably about 1.5 to about 8 mg / mm length of the holder portion, and more preferably about 2 to about 6 mg / mm length of the holder portion.

[0206] The holder portion may have an average weight of about 4.25 mg / mm length of the holder portion.As used herein, the average weight of the holder portion is measured by dividing the total weight of the holder portion by the length of the holder portion.

[0207] A portion of the holder portion may be defined by a wrapper. The entire holder portion may be defined by a wrapper. The wrapper may be a paper wrapper.

[0208] Preferably, the holder portion is connected to one or more of the adjacent components of the inhaler article by means of a wrapper.The wrapper may be a paper wrapper.

[0209] The holder portion may include an adhesive. For example, where the holder portion comprises a tube, the sheet forming the support may be attached to the tube via adhesive at the points where the sheet contacts the tube. In other words, the first and second flaps of the support may be attached to the inner surface of the hollow tubular element of the holder portion via adhesive.

[0210] The adhesive may include at least one of PVA, PVOH, and a hot melt adhesive. The adhesive may include a binder. Suitable binders include, but are not limited to, gums such as guar gum, xanthan gum, gum arabic, and locust bean gum; cellulosic binders such as hydroxypropyl cellulose, carboxymethyl cellulose, hydroxyethyl cellulose, methyl cellulose, and ethyl cellulose; polysaccharides such as starch; organic acids such as alginic acid; conjugate base salts of organic acids such as sodium alginate, agar, and pectin; and combinations thereof. Preferably, the binder includes guar gum.

[0211] The present disclosure also relates to a method for forming a retainer portion for an inhaler product. The method may include providing an apparatus for forming the retainer portion. The apparatus may include a device. The device may have an inner surface. The inner surface may define a channel of the device. The channel may have a substantially constant cross-section along the entire length of a first section of the device. For example, the portion of the channel extending through the first section of the device may be substantially cylindrical. The channel may extend from an upstream opening of the device. The channel may extend to a downstream opening of the device. The method may also include providing a hollow tube. The method may further include passing a sheet of material through the upstream opening of the device into the channel. The method may further include gluing the sheets of material to form a hollow tubular element. Forming the hollow tubular element from the sheets may include forming a seam by overlapping a portion of the sheet at a first end of the sheet with a portion of the sheet at an opposite second end of the sheet. Forming the seam may include attaching the portion of the sheet at the first end of the sheet to the portion of the sheet at the second end of the sheet using an adhesive. The seam may extend along the length of the hollow tube.

[0212] The diameter of the passageway of the device may be substantially the same as the diameter of the hollow tube of the holder portion. The diameter of the passageway may be selected so that during the step of passing the hollow tube of the holder portion through the first section of the device, the outer surface of the hollow tube remains in contact with the inner surface of the device to facilitate forming the hollow tube into the holder portion.

[0213] The method may include attaching a first support flap and a second support flap to the inner surface of a hollow tubular element of a holder portion. The attaching step may be performed before the holder portion has exited the device. In this case, the attaching step may be performed while the hollow tubular element of the holder portion is passing through the passageway. The attaching step may be performed after the holder portion has exited the device.

[0214] The method may comprise confining a package around the holder portion. The confining step may be performed before the holder portion has left the apparatus. The confining step may be performed after the holder portion has left the apparatus.

[0215] The method may include attaching the packaging to the holder portion (e.g., by adhesive). The step of attaching the packaging to the holder portion may be performed before the holder portion has left the device. The step of attaching the packaging to the holder portion may be performed after the holder portion has left the device.

[0216] Features described with respect to one example or embodiment may also be applicable to other examples and embodiments.

[0217] A non-exhaustive list of non-limiting examples is provided below.Any one or more features of these examples may be combined with any one or more features of another example or embodiment described herein.

[0218] Ex1: An inhaler article extending between an upstream end and a downstream end, comprising at least a matrix portion and a holder portion, each of the matrix portion and the holder portion and the inhaler article comprising a length "l", a radius "r" and a central axis; wherein the matrix portion comprises a matrix; wherein the holder portion comprises a hollow tubular element having an inner surface and defining an interior cavity; a support member, the support member being in the interior cavity of the holder portion; wherein the support member is formed from a sheet of material and comprises a first flap, a first bend, a first leg, a second bend, a second leg, a third bend and a second flap; wherein the first flap of the support member comprises a length, and wherein the first flap of the support member contacts the holder portion and a second leg extending along a length between the first bend and the second bend, wherein the first leg of the support comprises a length between the second bend and the third bend, and the first leg, the second bend and the second leg form two legs of a triangle extending into the internal cavity of the retaining member portion when the retaining member portion is viewed from the upstream end of the retaining member portion; and the support forms the second fold, wherein the second fold of the support comprises a length contacting the inner surface of the retaining member; and it is characterized in that the length of at least one of the first leg and the second leg is greater than the radius "r" of the retaining member portion.

[0219] EX2: An inhaler article according to EX1, wherein the holder portion is downstream of the matrix portion.

[0220] EX3: An inhaler article according to EX2, wherein the inhaler article further comprises a mouthpiece.

[0221] EX4: An inhaler article according to EX3, wherein the inhaler article comprises a base portion, a holder portion downstream of the base portion, and a mouthpiece downstream of the holder portion, the mouthpiece forming a downstream end of the inhaler article.

[0222] EX5: The inhaler article according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the inhaler article comprises a cylinder.

[0223] EX6: The inhaler article according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the first leg and the second leg are straight.

[0224] EX7: The inhaler article of any preceding example, wherein a length of at least one of the first flap and the second flap is shorter than a radius of the holder portion.

[0225] EX8: The inhaler article of any preceding example, wherein at least one of the first flap and the second flap is attached to an inner surface of the holder portion.

[0226] EX9: wherein the first flap and the second flap are attached to the inner surface of the holder portion with an adhesive.

[0227] EX10: The inhaler article according to any preceding embodiment, wherein the support comprises paper or cardboard.

[0228] EX11: The inhaler article according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the matrix comprises a powder.

[0229] EX12: An inhaler article according to EX11, wherein the powder is contained in a capsule.

[0230] EX13: An inhaler article according to any of examples 1-10, wherein the substrate comprises tobacco.

[0231] EX 14: The inhaler article of any preceding example, further comprising a wrapper surrounding at least a portion of the holder portion and the matrix portion.

[0232] EX15: The inhaler article of any preceding example, wherein the inhaler article has a length of between 40 and 50 mm.

[0233] EX16: An inhaler article according to EX15, wherein the length of the holder portion is between 5 and 9 mm.

[0234] EX17: An inhaler article according to EX15, wherein the length of the holder portion is between 6 and 8 mm.

[0235] EX18: The inhaler article according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the length of the holder portion is 10% to 20% of the length of the inhaler article.

[0236] EX19: An inhaler article according to EX18, wherein the support member is formed from a sheet of material that is different from the material of the retaining member.

[0237] EX20: The inhaler article of any preceding example, wherein the support comprises a sheet of material having a thickness of 100 to 125 μm.

[0238] EX21 : The inhaler article of any preceding example, wherein the support comprises 75 to 200 gsm of material.

[0239] EX22: The inhaler article of any preceding example, wherein a radius of the holder portion measured from an inner surface of the holder portion to a central axis of the holder is between 3 and 4 mm.

[0240] EX23: The inhaler article of any preceding example, wherein a radius of the holder portion measured from an inner surface of the holder portion to a central axis of the holder is between 3.2 and 3.75 mm.

[0241] EX24: The inhaler article of any preceding example, wherein the length of the first leg and the length of the second leg are greater than the length of the radius of the holder portion.

[0242] EX25: The inhaler article according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the first bend and the third bend are angled rather than curved.

[0243] EX26. The inhaler article of any preceding embodiment, wherein the tip is angled from 32.5 degrees to 43.5 degrees.

[0244] EX27: An inhaler system comprising an inhaler article according to any one of the preceding examples and a holder for receiving the inhaler article, the holder comprising:

[0245] a housing defining a housing cavity configured to receive the inhaler article; and

[0246] A piercing element is configured to extend into the housing cavity and pierce a capsule of the inhaler article. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0247] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0248] Figure 1 shows a schematic diagram of an inhaler article according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0249] Figure 2A Shown Figure 1 a partially transparent perspective view of an inhaler article;

[0250] Figure 2B shows a partially transparent perspective view of another embodiment of an inhaler article;

[0251] Figure 3 Shown Figure 1 A schematic diagram of an inhaler product;

[0252] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of an inhaler article inserted into a retainer;

[0253] Figure 5 Shown is a holder with a piercing element Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of an inhaler product;

[0254] Figure 6A Shown Figure 1 a cross-sectional view of an upstream end face of a holder portion of an inhaler article;

[0255] Figure 6B Shown Figure 1 A perspective view of the upstream end face of the holder portion of the inhaler article. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0256] Figure 1 、 Figure 2A and Figure 2B Shown is an inhaler article 10 according to the present disclosure. The inhaler article 10 extends between its upstream end 1 and its downstream (or oral) end 2. The inhaler article 10 comprises a substrate portion 3, a holder portion 4 and a mouthpiece 6 positioned downstream of the substrate portion 3 and the holder portion 4. The mouthpiece 6 is spaced apart from the substrate portion 3 by the holder portion 4. The inhaler article 10 comprises the substrate portion 3, the holder portion 4 and the mouthpiece 6 in a linear arrangement from the upstream end 1 to the downstream end 2. In an embodiment, the holder portion 4 can be the mouthpiece 6.

[0257] like Figure 2A As shown in FIG, the matrix portion 3 includes a cavity 7 for accommodating a matrix 29. Figure 2A As shown in FIG, a matrix 29 is housed in a capsule 9, which is housed in a cavity 7. The cavity 7 is configured to house the capsule 9. The capsule 9 inside the cavity 7 houses the matrix 29. The matrix portion 3 houses the matrix 29. The matrix portion 3 houses the capsule 9, which houses the matrix material 29. The capsule 9 is between the upstream end 1 and the holder portion 4 of the inhaler article 10. The inhalable material 29 inside the capsule 9 contains nicotine. Figure 2A In the embodiment shown in FIG, the matrix material 29 is a dry powder 299 contained in a capsule 9. Figure 2A As shown in FIG, the substrate portion 3 includes a folded upstream end 5 and a hollow tube 12 defining a cavity 7. The holder portion 4 may extend from the cavity 7 or a downstream portion thereof to the downstream end 2 of the inhaler article 10. Alternatively, as Figure 1 、 2A As shown in and 2B , the holder portion 4 may be the portion of the inhaler article 10 between the substrate portion 3 housing the substrate 29 and the mouthpiece 6 forming the downstream end 2 of the inhaler article 10 .

[0258] The inhaler article 10 may further include a wrapper 8. The wrapper 8 may wrap the matrix portion 3. The wrapper 8 may wrap the matrix portion 3 and the holder portion 4. The wrapper may wrap the matrix portion 3, the holder portion 4, and the mouthpiece 6. The wrapper may wrap the hollow tube 12 and the holder portion 4. The hollow tube 12 defines a cavity 7. The hollow tube 12 and the upstream end of the holder portion 4 define the cavity 7. The downstream end of the hollow tube 12 is adjacent to the upstream end of the holder portion 4. The holder portion 4 may form the downstream end 2 of the inhaler article 10. Alternatively, there is a mouthpiece 6 that forms the downstream end 2 of the inhaler article 10. Figure 2A and 2B As shown in FIG, the wrapper 8 defines the hollow tube 12 of the base portion 3, the holder portion 4, and the mouthpiece 6. In an embodiment, the wrapper 8 secures the holder portion 4 in axial alignment with the hollow tube 12. In an embodiment, when the wrapper 8 defines the base portion 3, the holder portion 4, and the mouthpiece 6, the wrapper 8 secures the mouthpiece 6 and the holder portion 4 in linear axial alignment with the hollow tube 12 of the base portion 3.

[0259] exist Figure 2B In the embodiment shown in FIG, the substrate portion 3 contains a substrate 29, which is tobacco 298. Figure 2B In the embodiment shown in FIG, the base portion 3, the holder portion 4 and the mouthpiece portion 6 are shown in linear alignment. Figure 2B As shown in , the optional upstream element 11 is shown at the upstream end 1 of the inhaler article 10. Figure 2B In the embodiment shown in FIG, a substrate 29 of tobacco 298 may be wrapped by a hollow tubular member 12. In this embodiment, the hollow tubular member 12 may be a stick wrap. Figure 2B In the embodiment shown in, inhaler product 10 is shown, it has matrix portion 3, holder part 4 and the cigarette holder that are linearly axially aligned from upstream end 1 to downstream end 2.Matrix portion 3 and holder part 4 can be limited by wrapper 8.Wrapper 8 is fixed with holder part 4 and hollow tube 12 axial alignments of matrix portion 3.In an embodiment, when wrapper 8 limited matrix portion 3, holder part 4 and cigarette holder 6, wrapper 8 was fixed with cigarette holder 6 and holder part 4 and hollow tube 12 linear axial alignments of matrix portion 3.In addition, when there was optional upstream element 11, wrapper 8 was fixed with upstream element 11, matrix portion 3, holder part 4 and cigarette holder 6 and hollow tube 12 axial alignments.

[0260] like Figure 2A As shown in Figure 4In the cross section in FIG, the folded end 5 of the hollow tube 12 defines a central channel or passage 55 extending from the upstream end of the folded end 5 through the center of the folded end 5. The central channel 55 of the folded end 5 is arranged to provide a passage to the capsule cavity 7 to a piercing element 101 (e.g., a piercing element 101 of a holder 1210 for an inhaler article 10). Such a piercing element is configured to pierce or puncture the capsule 9 so as to enable the capsule to be consumed. The piercing capsule allows the powder contained in the capsule to be released when air flows through the inhaler article, thereby allowing the powder to be delivered to the user. The diameter of the central channel 55 is less than about 6 mm. The central channel is configured to accommodate piercing elements or needles ranging from 27 (outer diameter = 0.42 mm) to 4 (outer diameter = 5 mm). As Figure 3 As shown in FIG, the central channel 55 is 1 mm.

[0261] like Figure 3 As shown in FIG, the total length of the inhaler article 10 is about 45 mm. The length of the capsule cavity 7 is about 25 mm, and the length of the retaining member portion 4 is about 7 mm. The length of the hollow tube 12 surrounding the capsule cavity 7 is between about 25 mm and about 28 mm. Depending on the thickness of the hollow tube 12 material, the inner diameter of the hollow tube 12 surrounding the capsule cavity 7 is between about 6.47 and about 6.63 mm. The outer diameter of the hollow tube 12 is between about 7.1 mm and about 7.5 mm. Figure 3 As shown in , the outer diameter of hollow tube 12 is 7.3mm. The length of packaging material 8 is about 45mm. The diameter of inhaler product 10 is between about 7.1 and 7.5mm. The relative RTD of holder part 4 or the RTD per unit length is about 0.02 mmHg / mm. The RTD of holder part 100 is about 0.34 mmHg. The diameter of capsule 9 is about 6mm, and the length of capsule 9 is about 16mm.

[0262] Figure 4 An inhaler system 1200 is shown. The inhaler system 1200 includes an inhaler article 10 and a separate holder 1210. The inhaler article 10 can be received in the holder 1210 to activate or pierce a capsule 9 ( Figure 4 Not shown, but see Figure 1 as well as Figure 2A and 2B During use by a consumer, the inhaler article 10 is retained in the holder 1210. The holder 1210 is configured to induce a vortex inhalation airflow into the received inhaler article 10. The holder 1210 is configured to fold back or break or open the folded end 5 of the inhaler article 10.

[0263] The inhaler system 1200 includes an inhaler article 10 and a holder 1210 . The inhaler article 10 extends along the inhaler longitudinal axis LA . The holder 1210 includes a removable sleeve 1220 that holds the inhaler article 10 received in the sleeve cavity 122 .

[0264] The retainer 1210 that is used for inhaler product 10 comprises: comprise the housing 111 that comprises the housing cavity 112 that is used to receive inhaler product 1050, and the sleeve 1220 that is configured to inhaler product 1050 is retained in the housing cavity 112.Sleeve 1220 limits sleeve cavity 122, and is movable in housing cavity 112 along the longitudinal axis LA of housing 111.Sleeve 1220 comprises first open end 124 and second opposite end 1226.The second opposite end 1226 of sleeve 1220 is configured to allow air to enter sleeve cavity 122.Air can enter sleeve cavity through air inlet 127.The second opposite end 1226 of sleeve 1220 is configured to cause vortex on the air that enters sleeve cavity 122.

[0265] The retainer 1210 may include a piercing element 101 secured to and extending from the housing inner surface 109. The piercing element 101 may be configured to extend through the second opposite end 1226 of the sleeve 1220 and into the sleeve cavity 122 along the longitudinal axis LA of the housing 111. The retainer 1210 may include a spring element 102 configured to bias the sleeve 1220 away from the piercing element 101.

[0266] Figure 5 Shown in the holder 1210 (as Figure 4 shown in Figure 1 Schematic cross-sectional view of an inhaler article 10 with a piercing element 101 ready to enter the upstream end 1 of the inhaler article 10 to pierce the capsule 9. Figure 5 As shown in FIG, the holder portion 4 extends to the mouth end 2 of the inhaler article.

[0267] As from Figure 6A and 6B As best seen, the holder portion 4 of the inhaler article 10 has a length "l" 113, a radius "r" 114 (e.g., Figure 6B ) and the central axis 115 (as shown in Figure 6B As shown in the cross section in Figure 6A and 6B The length 113 of the holder portion 4 shown in FIG is 7 mm. The diameter of the holder portion 4 can be between 7.5 and 6.4 mm. Figure 6A and 6B The diameter of the holder portion 4 shown in FIG is 6.55 mm ± 0.08 mm. The radius 114 of the holder portion 4 may be between 3.75 mm and 3.2 mm. Figure 6A and 6B The radius 114 of the holder portion 4 shown in FIG is 3.2 to 3.3 mm. Figure 6B This is a cross-sectional view, so the central axis 115 is Figure 6B The holder portion 4 comprises a hollow tubular element 110 of material defining an interior cavity 120 of the holder portion 4. The hollow tubular element 110 has an inner surface 103. The holder portion 4 further comprises a support 130 formed of sheet material in the interior cavity 120 of the holder portion 4.

[0268] The support member 130 has a first flap 131, a first bend 132, a first leg 133, a second bend 134, a second leg 135, a third bend 136, and a second flap 137. The first flap 131 of the support member 130 has a length. The first flap 131 of the support member contacts the inner surface 103 of the hollow tubular member 110 of the holder portion 4. The first flap 131 of the support member can be attached to the inner surface 103 of the hollow tubular member 110 of the holder portion 4. The first flap 131 of the support member can be attached to the inner surface 103 of the hollow tubular member 110 of the holder portion 4 using an adhesive.

[0269] like Figure 6B As shown in FIG, the length of the first fold 131 is smaller than the radius of the hollow tubular element 110 of the holder portion 4. Figure 6B As shown in FIG, the inner diameter of the hollow tubular element of the holder portion is 3.2 to 3.3 mm, and the length of the first flap 131 is less than 3.2 mm or less than 3.3 mm. The length of the first flap 131 can be, for example, less than 3 mm. The length of the first flap 131 can be, for example, between 2.5 mm and 3.2 mm. The length of the first flap 131 can be, for example, 2.7 mm. The length of the first flap 131 can be less than the radius 114 of the hollow tubular element of the holder portion 4.

[0270] At the first bend 132, the support 130 becomes extended into the interior cavity 120 of the holder portion 4. The first bend 132 is a fold in the sheet material of the support 130. Figure 6B As shown in FIG, the first bend 132 extends into the interior cavity 120 of the holder portion 4 at a certain angle. In terms of the angle that can be defined between the straight leg and the arc, the angle can be, for example, between 65 degrees and 75 degrees. When viewed from the upstream end of the holder portion 4, and as shown in FIG. Figure 6B As shown in FIG, first leg 133, second bend 134, and second leg 135 form two sides of a triangle extending into interior cavity 120 of holder portion 4. Second bend 134 defines angle 138. Angle 138 may be between 32.5 and 43.5 degrees.

[0271] The second leg 135 extends between the second bend or tip 134 and a third bend 136 at the inner surface of the hollow tubular element 110 of the holder portion 4. The second leg 135 has a length. The length of at least one of the first leg 133 and the second leg 135 is greater than the radius of the hollow tubular element 110 of the holder portion 4. Figure 6A and 6B As shown in , the length of the second leg 135 is greater than the radius 114 of the holder portion 4. Figure 6A and 6B As shown in FIG, the lengths of both the first leg 133 and the second leg 135 are each greater than the radius 114 of the holder portion.

[0272] At the third bend 136, the support 130 contacts the inner surface 103 of the hollow tubular element of the holder portion 4. At the third bend 136, the support 130 changes to form a second flap 137. The third bend 136 may be a fold in the sheet material of the support 130. Figure 6B As shown in FIG, the third bend 132 forms an angle between the third bend 132 and the inner surface 103 of the hollow tubular element 110 of the holder portion 4. To the extent that an angle can be defined between a straight leg and an arc, the angle can be, for example, between 65 and 75 degrees.

[0273] The second flap 137 of the support 130 may be attached to the inner surface 103 of the hollow tubular element 110 of the holder portion 4. The second flap 137 of the support may be attached to the inner surface 103 of the hollow tubular element 110 of the holder portion 4 by an adhesive. Figure 6B As shown in FIG, second flap 137 has a length. The length of second flap 137 can be, for example, less than 3.2 mm or less than 3.3 mm. The length of second flap 137 can be, for example, less than 3 mm. The length of second flap 137 can be, for example, between 2.5 mm and 3.2 mm. The length of second flap 137 can be, for example, 2.7 mm. The length of second flap 137 can be less than radius 114 of the hollow tubular element of holder portion 4.

[0274] The support member 130 is formed from a sheet of paper. The paper has a basis weight of approximately 78 gsm. The support member 130 is formed from a sheet of paper that is scored at a first bend 132, a second bend 134, and a third bend 136. This scored sheet makes it easier to create the bends when manufacturing the support member 130 and inserting it into the hollow tubular element 110 of the retainer portion 4. The length of the support member 130, measured when the support member 130 is unbent and from the end of the first flap 131 to the end of the second flap 137, is approximately 14.3 mm. The width of the support member 130 is equal to the length of the retainer portion 4, which is approximately 7 mm. In other words, the support member 130 extends along substantially the entire length of the retainer portion 4, from the upstream face of the retainer portion to the downstream face of the retainer portion. In fact, the support member 130 has substantially the same width as the retainer portion 4.

[0275] The holder portion 4 has a total weight of approximately 72 mg. Thus, the holder portion has an average weight of approximately 4.2 mg / mm. The holder portion 4 has a constant cross-section along the entire length of the holder portion 4.

[0276] The first bend 132, the second bend 134, and the third bend 136 of the support 130 are parallel to the longitudinal axis of the holder portion 4. Thus, the first bend 132, the second bend 134, and the third bend 136 are parallel to each other. The first bend 132 and the third bend 136 are spaced apart from each other along the inner surface 103 of the hollow tubular element 110 of the holder portion by a distance of approximately 2.68 mm.

[0277] The first leg 133 and the second leg 135 define an angle 138 of 37.5 degrees ± 5 degrees at the second bend or tip.The second bend or tip 134 of the support 130 is spaced apart from the radial center 115 of the holder portion 4 by a distance of approximately 1.2 mm.

[0278] The holder portion is manufactured by first forming the hollow tubular element 110 of the holder portion 4. The sheet of support 130 is folded at the first bend 132, the second bend 134, and the third bend 136 to form the triangular shape of the support 130. Then, adhesive is provided to the side of the first fold 131 and the second fold 137 that is intended to contact the inner surface 103 of the hollow tubular element 110 of the holder portion 4. The support 130 is then inserted into the hollow tubular element 110 of the holder portion 4 so that the first fold 131 and the second fold 137 contact the inner surface 103 of the hollow tubular element 110 of the holder portion 4, and the first leg 133, the second bend or tip 134, and the second leg 135 extend into the interior cavity of the holder portion, thereby forming a triangular shape. The adhesive can be heated, cured, or hardened in another step. The holder portion 4 that accommodates the support 130 can then be cut to the desired length.

[0279] For the purpose of this specification and the appended claims, unless otherwise indicated, all numbers representing amounts, quantities, percentages, etc. should be understood to be modified by the term "about" in all cases. Moreover, all ranges include the disclosed maximum and minimum points, and include any intermediate ranges therein that may be specifically listed or may not be listed in this article. Therefore, in this context, the number A is understood to be 10% of A±A. In this context, the number A can be considered to include a numerical value within the general standard error for the measurement of the attribute modified by the number A. In some cases used in the appended claims, the number A may deviate from the percentages listed above, provided that the amount of A deviation does not substantially affect the basic characteristics and novel features of the claimed invention. Moreover, all ranges include the disclosed maximum and minimum points, and include any intermediate ranges therein that may be specifically listed or may not be listed in this article.

Claims

1. An inhaler article extending between an upstream end and a downstream end, comprising a substrate portion and a holder portion, each of the substrate portion and the holder portion and the inhaler article comprising a length "l", a radius "r" and a central axis; wherein the matrix portion comprises a matrix; wherein the holder portion comprises a hollow tubular element having an inner surface and defining an interior cavity; a support member within the interior cavity of the holder portion; wherein the support is formed from a sheet of material and includes a first flap, a first bend, a first leg, a second bend, a second leg, a third bend, and a second flap; wherein the first flap of the support comprises a length, and wherein the first flap of the support contacts an inner surface of the holder portion; wherein the first leg of the support comprises a length between the first bend and the second bend; wherein the second curved portion includes a tip; wherein the second leg of the support comprises a length between the second bend and the third bend; wherein when the holder portion is viewed from an upstream end of the holder portion, the first leg, the second bend, and the second leg form two legs of a triangle extending into the interior cavity of the holder portion; wherein the support member forms the second flap, wherein the second flap of the support member includes a length that contacts the inner surface of the holder portion; wherein a length of at least one of the first leg and the second leg is greater than a radius of the holder portion.

2. The inhaler article of claim 1, wherein the radius of the holder portion is between 3 and 4 mm.

3. The inhaler article of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the length of the first leg and the length of the second leg are greater than the radius of the holder portion.

4. The inhaler article of any preceding claim, wherein a length of at least one of the first flap and the second flap is shorter than a radius of the holder portion.

5. The inhaler article of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first and second flaps are attached to the inner surface of the holder portion with an adhesive.

6. The inhaler article of any preceding claim, wherein the first bend and the third bend are angled.

7. An inhaler article according to any preceding claim, wherein the support is formed from a sheet of material that is different from the material of the holder portion.

8. An inhaler article according to any preceding claim, wherein the support comprises paper or cardboard.

9. An inhaler article according to any preceding claim, wherein the support comprises a sheet of material having a thickness of 100 to 125 μm.

10. An inhaler article according to any preceding claim, wherein the support comprises 75 to 200 gsm of material.

11. The inhaler article of any preceding claim, wherein the matrix comprises a powder.

12. The inhaler article of claim 11, wherein the powder is contained in a capsule.

13. The inhaler article of any one of claims 1-10, wherein the substrate comprises tobacco.

14. The inhaler article according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the inhaler article has a length of between 40 and 50 mm, and wherein the holder portion has a length of between 5 and 9 mm.

15. An inhaler system comprising an inhaler article according to any one of the preceding claims and a holder for receiving the inhaler article, the holder comprising: a housing defining a housing cavity configured to receive the inhaler article; as well as A piercing element is configured to extend into the housing cavity and pierce a capsule of the inhaler article.

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