Molding equipment and production line of aerosol generating matrix strip

Abstract

The embodiment of the invention discloses forming equipment and a production line for an aerosol generating matrix strip, and the forming equipment comprises a feeding device, an extrusion device, a molding mold and a transition connecting piece; the extrusion device is provided with a discharge port, the feeding device is used for supplying a solid material and a liquid material to the extrusion device, the extrusion device is used for mixing the solid material and the liquid material to obtain a mixed material, and the mixed material can be extruded through the discharge port to form an extrusion matrix; the molding mold is provided with a molding hole channel, and the molding hole channel is used for molding and extruding the matrix to form an aerosol generating matrix strip; the two ends of the transition connecting piece are connected with the extrusion device and the molding mold correspondingly, one end of the runner communicates with the discharging opening, and the other end of the runner communicates with one end of the molding hole channel. The forming equipment provided by the embodiment of the invention is beneficial to improving the toughness of the aerosol generating substrate strip and reducing the strip breaking rate, so that the production efficiency of the aerosol generating substrate strip is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of smoke-generating products technology, and in particular to a molding equipment and production line for aerosol-generating matrix strips. Background Technology

[0002] Aerosol generating matrix can form aerosols by ignition or by heating without combustion. In the heated but non-combustible aerosol generating matrix, the aerosol generating matrix is ​​heated by an external heat source to a level sufficient to release aerosols. The aerosol generating matrix does not burn; instead, it is loaded with a smoke-generating agent, and aerosols are released by heating the aerosol generating matrix during use.

[0003] In related technologies, the forming equipment for aerosol generation matrix strips includes an extrusion device and a molding die. The extrusion device extrudes the mixture through the molding die to form aerosol generation matrix strips. Since multiple aerosol generation matrix strips are extruded at the same time, but the discharge speed of the molding die is different, the toughness of the aerosol generation matrix strips is not high, which will lead to strip breakage, thus affecting production efficiency. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In view of this, the embodiments of this application aim to provide a molding equipment and production line for aerosol-generated matrix strips, which is conducive to balancing the discharge speed of the molding channels, thereby improving the toughness of the aerosol-generated matrix strips, reducing their breakage rate, and thus improving the production efficiency of aerosol-generated matrix strips.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the technical solution of this application embodiment is implemented as follows:

[0006] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a molding apparatus for aerosol-generated matrix strips, comprising:

[0007] Feeding device;

[0008] An extrusion device having a discharge port, wherein the feeding device supplies solid and liquid materials to the extrusion device, the extrusion device mixes the solid and liquid materials to obtain a mixture, and is capable of extruding the mixture through the discharge port to form an extruded matrix;

[0009] A molding die having molding channels for molding the extruded matrix to form the aerosol generating matrix strip;

[0010] The molding equipment further includes a transition connector with a flow channel. The two ends of the transition connector are respectively connected to the extrusion device and the molding die. One end of the flow channel is connected to the discharge port, and the other end is connected to one end of the molding channel.

[0011] Secondly, embodiments of this application improve a production line for an aerosol generation matrix segment, comprising:

[0012] The molding equipment described in any of the above embodiments is used to generate multiple aerosol generation matrix strips;

[0013] The conveyor belt is located downstream of the forming equipment;

[0014] A packaging and cutting device is located downstream of the conveyor belt. The conveyor belt transports multiple aerosol generating matrix strips to the packaging and cutting device. The packaging and cutting device is used to package the multiple aerosol generating matrix strips and then cut them into segments to obtain aerosol generating matrix segments.

[0015] The molding equipment of this application embodiment connects the molding die and the extrusion device through a transition connector. The molding channel and the discharge port are indirectly connected through a flow channel. The mixed material is extruded through the discharge port to form an extruded matrix. The extruded matrix gradually fills the space in the flow channel. After the space in the flow channel is filled, the extruded matrix extruded through the discharge port continues to enter the flow channel. The end of the flow channel away from the discharge port can move synchronously towards the direction of the molding channel and enter the molding channel. The movement speed of the extruded matrix on the cross section of the flow channel near the molding channel is more balanced. That is, by setting a flow channel between the discharge port and the molding channel, the flow channel can balance the pressure at each point on the cross-sectional plane of the aerosol production matrix strip, which is beneficial to improving the consistency of each point on the cross-sectional plane, thereby facilitating the equalization of the discharge speed of the molding channel. The aerosol generation matrix strip can be continuously extruded through the molding channel, which is beneficial to improving the toughness of the aerosol generation matrix strip, reducing its breakage rate, and thus improving the production efficiency of the aerosol generation matrix strip. Attached Figure Description

[0016] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a molding device for generating aerosol matrix strips according to an embodiment of this application;

[0017] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an extrusion apparatus according to an embodiment of this application, which also shows an assembly diagram of the apparatus with a transition connector and a molding die;

[0018] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a feeding screw according to an embodiment of this application;

[0019] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an extrusion screw according to an embodiment of this application;

[0020] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the extrusion screw according to another embodiment of this application;

[0021] Figure 6This is a schematic diagram of the assembly structure of a transition connector and a molding die according to an embodiment of this application, wherein the transition connector shown is the first embodiment;

[0022] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the assembly structure of a transition connector and a molding die according to an embodiment of this application, wherein the transition connector shown is the one of the second embodiments.

[0023] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the assembly structure of a transition connector and a molding die according to an embodiment of this application, wherein the transition connector shown is the one of the third embodiments.

[0024] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a transition connector according to an embodiment of this application from one perspective;

[0025] Figure 10 This is a first-view structural schematic diagram of a molding die according to an embodiment of this application;

[0026] Figure 11 This is a second-view structural schematic diagram of a molding die according to an embodiment of this application;

[0027] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the layout structure of the first embodiment of the molding die of this application;

[0028] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the layout structure of the second embodiment of the molding die of this application;

[0029] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of the layout structure of the third embodiment of the molding die of this application;

[0030] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of the layout structure of the fourth embodiment of the molding die of this application;

[0031] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of the production line for the aerosol generation matrix section according to an embodiment of this application.

[0032] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0033] 100. Molding equipment; 10. Feeding device; 11. First feeding assembly; 111. First feeding bin; 111a. First feeding port; 112. Feeding screw; 113. Feeding housing; 113a. Feeding channel; 12. Second feeding assembly; 121. Second feeding bin; 121a. Second feeding port; 122. Feeding pipe; 123. Metering pump; 20. Extrusion device; 21. Extrusion screw; 211. Rod body; 212. Threaded blade; 22. Extrusion housing; 22a. Discharge port; 22b. Extrusion channel; 22c. Feed inlet; 30. Transition connector; 30a. Flow channel; 30aa. Narrowing section; 30ab. First connecting section; 30ac. Second connecting section; 30ad. Arc transition chain segment; 40. Plastic mold; 40a. Plastic mold channel; 200. Conveyor belt; 300. Packaging and cutting equipment. Detailed Implementation

[0034] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this application clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The following embodiments are only used to more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of this application, and are therefore only examples, and should not be used to limit the scope of protection of this application. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of this application without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0035] The present application will now be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments.

[0036] In this application, the aerosol generating matrix segment is used to generate aerosols by heating. Exemplarily, the aerosol generating matrix segment can be used to generate aerosols by heating and combustion; alternatively, it can be used to generate aerosols by heating without combustion, i.e., the aerosol generating matrix segment is heated to a temperature below its ignition point to generate aerosols, and the aerosol generating matrix segment does not burn during the aerosol generation process.

[0037] The aerosol generating matrix segment is specifically a segmental structure formed by packaging several aerosol generating matrix strips or sheets. The aerosol generating matrix segment is used in aerosol generating articles. The aerosol generating article includes the aerosol generating matrix segment and a functional segment. The functional segment is located at one end of the aerosol generating matrix segment along its longitudinal direction, and includes a filter segment for filtering aerosols. The filter segment is used to filter the aerosols generated by the aerosol generating matrix segment. Of course, in some embodiments, the aerosol generating article may not include the functional segment.

[0038] Aerosol generating products are used by users to inhale aerosols generated by the aerosol generating matrix section. For example, a user can inhale filtered aerosols through a mouth-held filter section. The aerosols generated by the aerosol generating matrix section are transported to the filter section under suction negative pressure. Aerosol generating products are used in conjunction with aerosol generating devices equipped with heating components. Specifically, the heating components heat and atomize the aerosol generating matrix section to generate aerosols.

[0039] There are various heating methods for heating components. Exemplary methods include center heating, peripheral heating, and / or bottom heating. Center heating involves inserting the heating component inside the aerosol-generating product to bake it from the inside out. Peripheral heating involves placing the heating component around the aerosol-generating product to bake it from the outside in. Bottom heating involves placing the heating component at the bottom of the aerosol-generating product, heating the air first, and then allowing the hot air to bake the aerosol-generating product from the bottom up.

[0040] It should be noted that the bottom of the aerosol-generated product is the end that is furthest from the functional section along its longitudinal direction.

[0041] The heating methods of the heating components include, but are not limited to, resistance heating, electromagnetic heating, infrared heating, microwave heating, or laser heating.

[0042] In some embodiments, the functional section may consist only of a filtration section. In other embodiments, the functional section further includes a cooling section located between the filtration section and the aerosol generation matrix section. The cooling section is used to cool the aerosol before it is filtered by the filtration section. The cooling section can alleviate the "burning" sensation experienced by users when inhaling the aerosol.

[0043] The cooling materials used in the cooling section include, but are not limited to, one or more combinations of materials such as PE (polyethylene), PLA (Polylactic Acid), PBAT (Polybutylene Adipate Terephthalate), PP (Polypropylene), cellulose acetate, and cellulose acrylic acid.

[0044] The filter materials used in the filtration section include, but are not limited to, one or more combinations of materials such as PE (polyethylene), PLA (Polylactic Acid), PBAT (Polybutylene Adipate Terephthalate), PP (Polypropylene), cellulose acetate, and cellulose acrylic acid.

[0045] The cooling section and the filtration section can be made of the same material or different materials.

[0046] Please refer to the following: Figures 1 to 15 In a first aspect, embodiments of this application disclose a molding device for generating aerosol matrix strips.

[0047] The molding equipment 100 is used to continuously extrude the mixture to generate aerosol generating matrix strips. Specifically, the molding equipment 100 can generate multiple aerosol generating matrix strips simultaneously. The "mixture" here refers to the components of the aerosol generating matrix strips, and its specific components are not limited herein. Exemplarily, in some embodiments, the aerosol generating matrix strips may include plant components, auxiliary components, smoke-generating agent components, adhesive components, etc.

[0048] In some embodiments, the plant-based ingredients are one or more combinations of powders formed from raw tobacco leaves, tobacco fragments, tobacco stems, tobacco dust, and aromatic plants after being crushed. The plant-based ingredients are the core source of the product's aroma. Endogenous substances in the plant-based ingredients, such as nicotine, enter the bloodstream through atomization, promoting the pituitary gland to produce dopamine, thereby generating a sense of physiological satisfaction.

[0049] In some embodiments, the plant components may include one or more of the following: tobacco, tea leaves, tea stems, dandelion, eucalyptus, cloves, cinnamon, turmeric, fungi, insulin wood, astragalus, jujube seed, lentil, kudzu root, fennel, rosemary, star anise, honeysuckle, chrysanthemum, rose, calendula, mugwort, olive, ginseng, American ginseng, mung bean, red bean, dried tangerine peel, nut shells, lily, coffee, agarwood, peppermint, hawthorn, licorice, cocoa, wood ear fungus, lotus seed, lotus leaf, ginger, fresh ginger, tartary buckwheat, and wheat bran. The mass percentage of the plant components in the aerosol matrix may be 20%-80% (including endpoint values).

[0050] In some embodiments, the auxiliary components may be one or more combinations of inorganic fillers, lubricants, and emulsifiers. The inorganic fillers include one or more combinations of heavy calcium carbonate, light calcium carbonate, zeolite, attapulgite, talc, and diatomaceous earth. The inorganic fillers provide skeletal support for the plant components, and their micropores increase the porosity of the wall material after molding, thereby improving the aerosol release rate.

[0051] Lubricants include one or more of the following: candelilla wax, carnauba wax, shellac, sunflower wax, rice bran, beeswax, stearic acid, and palmitic acid. Lubricants can increase the flowability of particles, reduce friction between particles, result in a more uniform overall particle density, and also reduce the pressure required for mold forming, thus reducing mold wear.

[0052] Emulsifiers include one or more combinations of polyglycerol fatty acid esters, Tween-80, and polyvinyl alcohol. Emulsifiers can, to some extent, slow down the loss of flavor substances during storage, increase the stability of flavor substances, and improve the sensory quality of the product. Emulsifiers (also known as surfactants) can reduce the interfacial tension between water-soluble and water-insoluble components in a mixture, and form a more robust film on the surface of microdroplets or an electric double layer on the surface of microdroplets due to the charge given by the emulsifier, preventing microdroplets from agglomerating and maintaining a homogeneous emulsion. Homogenizing two immiscible components through emulsification can improve the consistency of product quality.

[0053] The function of the smoke-generating agent is to produce a large amount of vapor upon heating, thereby increasing the amount of smoke in the smoke-generating product. In some embodiments, the smoke-generating agent may include, for example: a monohydric alcohol (such as menthol); a polyhydric alcohol (such as propylene glycol, triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol, and glycerol); an ester of a polyhydric alcohol (such as glyceryl monoacetate, glyceryl diacetate, or glyceryl triacetate); a monocarboxylic acid; a polycarboxylic acid (such as lauric acid, myristic acid) or an aliphatic ester of a polycarboxylic acid (such as dimethyl dodecanoate, dimethyl tetradecanoate, erythritol, 1,3-butanediol, tetraethylene glycol, triethyl citrate, propylene carbonate, ethyl laurate, triactin, meso-erythritol, a mixture of diacetic acid esters, diethyl caprylate, triethyl citrate, benzoyl peroxide, etc.

[0054] One or more combinations of benzoyl peroxide, phenylbenzyl acetate, ethyl vanillate, glyceryl tributyrate, and lauryl acetate.

[0055] In some embodiments, the adhesive component is a natural plant extract, a non-ionic modified viscous polysaccharide, including one or more combinations of tamarind polysaccharide, pullulan polysaccharide, seaweed polysaccharide, locust bean gum, guar gum, and xyloglucan. The adhesive achieves close contact with the component materials of the product through wetting at the interface, generating intermolecular attraction, thereby binding the powder, liquid, etc., components together. Furthermore, the use of a natural plant extract and a non-ionic adhesive avoids the release of harmful substances such as methanol, formaldehyde, and acrolein that can occur with colloidal modification, thus improving the safety of the product.

[0056] It should be noted that "continuous extrusion" here refers to continuously applying extrusion force to the mixture, so that each aerosol generating matrix strip formed after the mixture is extruded is a basically continuous strip structure under ideal conditions. In other words, under ideal conditions, during continuous extrusion, the extruded aerosol generating matrix strip does not break along the extrusion direction.

[0057] Please refer to the following: Figures 1 to 16Secondly, embodiments of this application disclose a production line for generating an aerosol matrix segment, including a conveyor belt 200, a packaging and cutting device 300, and a molding device 100 according to any embodiment of this application.

[0058] The conveyor belt 200 is positioned downstream of the molding equipment 100 and is used to transport aerosol generation matrix strips. The conveyor belt 200 can simultaneously transport multiple aerosol generation matrix strips to the packaging and cutting equipment 300. The material of the conveyor belt 200 is not limited. For example, it can be made of Teflon, which makes the conveyor belt 200 less prone to adhesion to the aerosol generation matrix strips and also resistant to high temperatures. The conveyor belt 200 can be driven by a servo motor and frequency converter control, thereby achieving interlocked and synchronized control with the extrusion speed of the molding equipment 100.

[0059] The packaging and cutting equipment 300 is located downstream of the conveyor belt 200 and is used to package multiple aerosol generating matrix strips and then cut them into segments to obtain aerosol generating matrix segments.

[0060] In some embodiments, the production line further includes a bundling mechanism located downstream of the conveyor belt 200 and upstream of the packaging and cutting equipment 300, for bundling multiple aerosol generating matrix strips to facilitate packaging by the downstream packaging and cutting equipment 300.

[0061] Furthermore, in actual use, the extrusion of the molding equipment 100, the conveying of the conveyor belt 200, the gathering of the gathering mechanism, and the packaging and cutting of the packaging and cutting equipment 300 are carried out simultaneously. In other words, during the continuous extrusion process, the conveyor belt 200 is always in a conveying state. As a result, the continuously extruded aerosol generating matrix strips will be continuously transported to the gathering mechanism. After passing through the gathering mechanism, the aerosol generating matrix strips are gathered and then packaged and cut into aerosol generating matrix segments by the packaging and cutting equipment 300.

[0062] Production lines provided in related technologies typically first prepare the mixture into aerosol generating matrix fragments or small aerosol generating matrix strips, and then package them separately into aerosol generating matrix segments. The production line of this application embodiment can form continuous aerosol generating matrix strips by continuous extrusion of the forming equipment 100 and conveying by the conveyor belt 200. Then, the aerosol generating matrix strips can be bundled by a bundling mechanism and packaged and cut by the packaging and cutting equipment 300 to form aerosol generating matrix segments, thereby simplifying the packaging steps and enabling continuous production and improving production efficiency.

[0063] The specific structure of the gathering mechanism is not limited. As an example, the gathering mechanism can be a cylindrical structure or a trough structure, with an inlet on the side facing the conveyor belt 200 and an outlet on the side away from the conveyor belt 200. The size of the outlet is smaller than the size of the inlet, thereby achieving the gathering effect.

[0064] The specific structure of the packaging and cutting equipment 300 is not limited. As an example, the packaging and cutting equipment 300 may include a packaging mechanism, a gluing mechanism, and a cutting mechanism. The packaging structure is used to wrap multiple aerosol generating matrix strips with an outer packaging. The outer packaging can be paper packaging, plastic packaging, or other suitable packaging; there are no limitations on this. The gluing mechanism is used to seal the edges of the outer packaging. As an example, the gluing mechanism may include a gluing component and a heating structure. After the gluing component applies the adhesive to the sealing edge, the heating structure bakes the adhesive, thereby improving the stability of the sealing edge. The cutting mechanism is used to cut the packaged aerosol generating matrix strips into small segments, forming aerosol generating matrix segments. The specific length of the aerosol generating matrix segments is not limited. In some embodiments, the cutting length of the cutting mechanism is adjustable to prepare aerosol generating matrix segments of different lengths.

[0065] The molding apparatus of one embodiment of this application will be described in detail below.

[0066] Please see Figure 1 The molding equipment 100 includes a feeding device 10, an extrusion device 20, and a molding die 40.

[0067] The feeding device 10 continuously supplies solid and liquid materials to the extrusion device 20. Both the solid and liquid materials are components of the aerosol-generated matrix strip. The extrusion device 20 has an outlet 22a, which mixes the solid and liquid materials to obtain a mixture, and can extrude the mixture through the outlet 22a to form an extruded matrix. That is, the extrusion device 20 can uniformly mix the solid and liquid materials to obtain a mixture, and at the same time, it can provide a certain extrusion pressure to continuously extrude the mixture. Specifically, as described above, in actual use, the extrusion device 20 can continuously extrude the mixture from the outlet 22a, and the mixture extruded from the outlet 22a is regarded as the extruded matrix.

[0068] The feeding speed of the feeding device 10 can be controlled synchronously with the extrusion speed of the extrusion device 20, that is, the feeding speed is fast when the extrusion speed is fast, and the feeding speed is slow when the extrusion speed is slow.

[0069] The extrusion device 20 also has at least one feed port 22c through which solid and liquid materials can be fed into the extrusion device 20. The unmixed solid and liquid materials will be squeezed and mixed into a mixture within the extrusion device 20.

[0070] Since the extrusion device 20 can continuously extrude the mixture, it can continuously and quantitatively feed solid and liquid materials. Here, "continuous quantitative feeding" means that solid and liquid materials are continuously fed into the extrusion device 20 at a certain speed. The advantage of continuous quantitative feeding is that it can keep the extrusion device 20 in a relatively full state of mixture, thereby improving the extrusion effect and reducing the risk of breakage of the extruded aerosol matrix strip due to insufficient mixture.

[0071] The molding die 40 has a molding channel 40a, one end of which is connected to the discharge port 22a. The molding channel 40a is used to mold and extrude the matrix to form an aerosol generation matrix strip. That is, the extruded matrix extruded from the discharge port 22a enters the molding channel 40a and can be continuously extruded through the end of the molding channel 40a away from the discharge port 22a to form a continuous long strip of aerosol generation matrix.

[0072] The specific number of molding channels 40a provided on a molding die 40 is not limited. For example, such as... Figure 2 , Figure 6 , Figure 10 or Figure 11 As shown, a molding die 40 has multiple molding channels 40a, one end of which is connected to a discharge port 22a. Thus, a molding die 40 can simultaneously extrude multiple aerosol generating matrix strips. A conveyor belt 200 simultaneously transports these strips to a bundling mechanism, facilitating their bundling. This, in turn, allows the packaging and cutting equipment 300 to package and cut the strips into aerosol generating matrix segments, improving the production efficiency of the aerosol generating matrix segments.

[0073] The molding channels 40a extend along a first direction, and each molding channel 40a is arranged along a second direction. The first direction, the second direction, and the height direction of the molding equipment 100 intersect but are not coplanar. For example, the first direction is... Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 6 or Figure 7 The direction shown in L1 is roughly consistent with the conveying direction of the conveyor belt 200. Therefore, the length direction of the continuously extruded aerosol generating matrix strip can be consistent with the conveying direction of the conveyor belt 200, which facilitates the packaging and cutting equipment 300 to package and cut the aerosol generating matrix strip.

[0074] For example, the second direction is Figure 2 , Figure 6 , Figures 10 to 15 The direction shown by L2. The height direction of the molding equipment 100 is... Figure 1 , Figure 7 , Figure 8 , Figures 12 to 15 The direction shown in L3 is as follows. As an example, the first and second directions can be perpendicular or at any other suitable angle; the first direction and the height direction can be perpendicular or at any other suitable angle; the second direction and the height direction can be perpendicular or at any other suitable angle. That is, the first and second directions form a surface, and the height direction is set at an angle to this surface.

[0075] The aerosol generating matrix strips extruded synchronously from each molding channel 40a can be laid on the conveyor belt 200 under gravity, and multiple aerosol generating matrix strips are arranged along the second direction. The conveyor belt 200 transports this part of the aerosol generating matrix strips to the packaging and cutting equipment 300, which can package and cut the aerosol generating matrix strips into segments, thereby preparing aerosol generating matrix segments with appropriate filling ratio.

[0076] It should be noted that the filling rate of the aerosol generation matrix segment refers to the ratio of the sum of the cross-sectional areas of each aerosol generation matrix strip to the cross-sectional area of ​​the aerosol generation matrix segment.

[0077] In the molding equipment of this application embodiment, the molding die 40 has multiple molding channels 40a. One molding die 40 can simultaneously extrude multiple aerosol generating matrix strips. At the same time, the molding channels 40a are arranged along the second direction. Under the action of gravity, the multiple aerosol generating matrix strips can be arranged in an orderly manner on the subsequent production equipment (e.g., conveyor belt 200). The multiple aerosol generating matrix strips are shaped and arranged along the second direction on the conveyor belt 200. By changing the number and / or shape, cross-sectional area, and other parameters of the molding channels 40a on the molding die 40, the multiple aerosol generating matrix strips extruded by the molding equipment 100 can also be arranged on the conveyor belt 200 according to the set requirements. Then, they can be packaged and cut into sections by the packaging and cutting equipment 300. That is, when packaging multiple aerosol generating matrix strips, it is not necessary to arrange the multiple aerosol generating matrix strips again, which helps to improve the production efficiency of aerosol generating matrix sections.

[0078] Please see Figure 1 In one embodiment, the feeding device 10 includes a first feeding component 11 and a second feeding component 12. The first feeding component 11 is used to supply solid material to the extrusion device 20, and the second feeding component 12 is used to supply liquid material to the extrusion device 20.

[0079] In other words, the feeding device supplies solid and liquid materials to the extrusion device respectively. After the solid and liquid materials are mixed in the extrusion device to become a mixture, they can be extruded from the outlet relatively quickly.

[0080] In related technologies, solid and liquid materials need to be mixed first to obtain a mixture, which is then supplied to an extrusion device via a feeding device to produce aerosol generating matrix strips. The mixture contains adhesives and other components, which, on the one hand, result in high viscosity, making it prone to sticking to the feeding device and clogging the extrusion device's inlet; on the other hand, the mixture tends to harden over time, making extrusion difficult. Therefore, the extrusion of aerosol generating matrix strips is relatively difficult and has low production efficiency.

[0081] In this embodiment, the forming apparatus includes a feeding device 10 comprising a first feeding assembly 11 and a second feeding assembly 12. The first feeding assembly 11 supplies solid material to the extrusion device 20, while the second feeding assembly 12 supplies liquid material. The solid and liquid materials are mixed within the extrusion device 20 to form a mixture, which can be extruded relatively quickly through the outlet 22a and molding channel 40a to form an aerosol-generating matrix strip. On one hand, the mixture obtained after mixing the solid and liquid materials does not remain in the extrusion device 20 for an extended period, facilitating extrusion before the mixture hardens, thus reducing the extrusion difficulty of the aerosol-generating matrix strip. On the other hand, since the solid and liquid materials are mixed inside the extrusion device 20, their individual viscosities are relatively low, minimizing the risk of material sticking to both the first feeding assembly 11 and the second feeding assembly 12, and also reducing the risk of blockage at the inlet 22c of the extrusion device 20. Therefore, this improves the production efficiency of the aerosol-generating matrix strip.

[0082] Furthermore, the feeding speeds of the first feeding component 11 and the second feeding component 12 can be synchronously controlled with the extrusion speed of the extrusion device 20. That is, when the extrusion speed is fast, the feeding speed is also fast, and when the extrusion speed is slow, the feeding speed is also slow. As a result, the operation of the molding equipment 100 is relatively simple. At the same time, the mixing of solid and liquid materials by the extrusion device 20 does not require the use of a dedicated mixing device, which helps to simplify the production process of aerosol matrix strips.

[0083] Please see Figure 1 In one embodiment, the first feeding assembly 11 includes a first feeding bin 111 having a first feeding port 111a and a first feeding assembly having a feeding channel 113a. The first feeding bin 111 is used to contain solid material, the first feeding port 111a is connected to the feeding channel 113a, and the first feeding assembly is used to quantitatively supply solid material to the extrusion device 20.

[0084] It should be noted that solid and liquid materials are supplied in a certain ratio. The "quantity" here refers to the supply of solid materials in a set ratio, which can be set according to actual needs. In other words, the specific amount of solid material in the "quantity" can be adjusted.

[0085] The first feeding hopper 111 can store a certain amount of solid material. That is, the mixed solid material can be stored in the first feeding hopper 111, and the first conveying component delivers the solid material according to a set ratio. The solid material can enter the conveying channel 113a through the first feeding port 111a and be supplied to the extrusion device 20 through the conveying channel 113a. Therefore, during the production of the aerosol-generated matrix strip, there is no need for continuous manual feeding. The first conveying component can more precisely control the feeding speed of the solid material, thereby improving the yield of the aerosol-generated matrix strip.

[0086] The specific structure of the first feeding assembly is not limited. For example, please refer to [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 1 In one embodiment, the first feeding assembly includes a feeding screw 112 and a feeding housing 113 having a feeding channel 113a. The feeding screw 112 is rotatably disposed in the feeding channel 113a. The feeding screw 112 feeds solid material quantitatively to the extrusion device 20 by rotating.

[0087] Solid material in the first feed bin 111 enters the conveying channel 113a through the first feed port 111a. The conveying screw 112, by rotating, can provide an axial force along the conveying channel 113a. Under the action of this force, the solid material can be conveyed along the axial direction of the conveying channel 113a. When it reaches the feed port 22c of the extrusion device 20, the solid material can fall into the extrusion device 20 under the action of gravity.

[0088] The method of driving the feed screw 112 to rotate is not limited. As an example, the first feeding assembly also includes a first driving member, which is drivenly connected to the feed screw 112, and the first driving member facilitates driving the feed screw 112 to rotate. The type of the first driving member is not limited, and it can be, for example, various types of drive motors.

[0089] It is understandable that by changing the rotation speed of the first driving component, the rotation speed of the feeding screw 112 can be adjusted, thereby adjusting the feeding speed of the solid material.

[0090] Please see Figure 1 and Figure 3 In one embodiment, the feed screw 112 is a constant pitch screw.

[0091] During the rotation of the feed screw 112, the solid material slides relative to the sidewall on one side of the screw thread axis, thereby propelling the solid material to move axially along the feed screw 112. Since the feed screw 112 is a constant-pitch screw, the pitch between adjacent screw threads remains constant. During the sliding process between adjacent screw threads, the solid material is not subjected to compressive force along the axial direction of the feed screw 112. This helps the solid material maintain its original state as it enters the extrusion unit 20, reducing the probability of agglomeration under compressive force and facilitating uniform mixing of solid and liquid materials within the extrusion unit 20.

[0092] Please see Figure 1 In one embodiment, the second feeding assembly 12 includes a second conveying assembly and a second feeding bin 121. The second feeding bin 121 is used to contain liquid material, and the second conveying assembly is used to quantitatively supply liquid material to the extrusion device 20.

[0093] It should be noted that solid and liquid materials are supplied in a certain ratio. The "quantity" here refers to the liquid material being supplied in a set ratio. This ratio can be set according to actual needs, meaning that the specific amount of "quantity" liquid material can be adjusted.

[0094] The second feeding hopper 121 can store a certain amount of liquid material. That is, the mixed liquid material can be stored in the second feeding hopper 121, and the second conveying component delivers the liquid material according to a set ratio. As a result, during the production of aerosol generation matrix strips, there is no need for continuous manual feeding. The second conveying component can control the feeding speed of the liquid material more precisely, thereby improving the yield of aerosol generation matrix strips.

[0095] The specific structure of the second feeding assembly is not limited. For example, please refer to [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 1 In one embodiment, the second conveying assembly includes a conveying pipe 122 and a metering pump 123 disposed on the conveying pipe 122. The second feeding bin 121 has a second feeding port 121a, the extrusion device 20 has an extrusion channel 22b, and the two ends of the conveying pipe 122 are respectively connected to the second feeding port 121a and the extrusion channel 22b.

[0096] The metering pump 123 can control the flow rate of liquid in the conveying pipeline 122, thereby enabling the quantitative supply of liquid.

[0097] The type of material conveying pipe 122 is not limited. For example, it can be a steel pipe, PVC pipe, etc.

[0098] In some embodiments, the second feeding assembly may further include a nozzle disposed at one end of the feeding pipe 122 near the extrusion device 20, that is, the nozzle supplies liquid material to the extrusion device 20, and the liquid material can be sprayed onto the solid material more evenly, thereby facilitating the thorough mixing of the solid material and the liquid material.

[0099] Please see Figure 1 and Figure 2 In one embodiment, the extrusion device 20 includes an extrusion screw 21 and an extrusion housing 22. The extrusion housing 22 has a discharge port 22a. The extrusion screw 21 is rotatably disposed inside the extrusion housing 22. The extrusion screw 21 rotates to mix solid and liquid materials to obtain a mixture, and can extrude the mixture through the discharge port 22a to form an extruded matrix.

[0100] Specifically, the extrusion housing 22 also has an extrusion channel 22b, with the discharge port 22a located at one end of the extrusion channel 22b and communicating with it, and the extrusion screw 21 rotatably disposed within the extrusion channel 22b.

[0101] Solid and liquid materials enter the extrusion channel 22b through the feed port 22c and are accommodated in the space between two adjacent threads of the extrusion screw 21. By rotating, the extrusion screw 21 provides an extrusion force to propel the solid and liquid materials along its axial direction. Simultaneously, during this axial movement, the screw provides an extrusion force to compress the materials. Under this force, the solid and liquid materials are kneaded and mixed to form a mixture, ensuring that the density of the mixture reaching the discharge port 22a meets requirements. The mixture, having reached the required density, continues to move under the extrusion force, being shaped through the molding channel 40a and extruded into a continuous, elongated aerosol matrix strip.

[0102] The method of driving the extrusion screw 21 to rotate is not limited. As an example, the first feeding assembly extrusion device 20 also includes a second drive member, which is drively connected to the extrusion screw 21, and the second drive member facilitates driving the extrusion screw 21 to rotate. The type of the second drive member is not limited, and it can be, for example, various types of drive motors.

[0103] It is understandable that by changing the rotational speed of the second drive component, the rotational speed of the extrusion screw 21 can be adjusted, thereby allowing the extrusion pressure provided by the screw 21 and the extrusion rate of the aerosol-generated matrix strip to be extruded.

[0104] Furthermore, in related technologies, the presence of air bubbles in the mixture can easily lead to breakage of the extruded aerosol-generating matrix strips, either directly or after drying, thus affecting production efficiency. In this embodiment, the extrusion screw 21 provides a certain extrusion pressure to the mixture. Under this pressure, it helps to expel air bubbles from the mixture; that is, the extrusion screw 21 functions as a venting mechanism, thereby improving the breakage phenomenon of the aerosol-generating matrix strips in related technologies and increasing the production efficiency of the aerosol-generating matrix strips.

[0105] The number of extrusion screws 21 disposed within the extrusion channel 22b is not limited. For example, it can be one, two, or three, etc. For instance, as shown... Figure 2 As shown, two extrusion screws 21 are provided in the extrusion channel 22b, and the two extrusion screws 21 need to be arranged in an alternating manner.

[0106] The specific structure of the extrusion screw 21 for supplying the mixture with extrusion pressure is not limited. For example, such as... Figure 1 and Figure 5 As shown, in some embodiments, the extrusion screw 21 includes a rod body 211 and a threaded blade 212. The threaded blade 212 is disposed on the rod body 211 and extends spirally along the axial direction of the rod body 211. The pitch of the threaded blade 212 gradually decreases in the direction close to the discharge port 22a.

[0107] Therefore, as the mixture moves along the axial direction of the extrusion screw 21 towards the discharge port 22a, the gap between two adjacent screw threads gradually decreases, thereby compressing the containment space of the mixture. The mixture is subjected to extrusion force along the axial direction of the extrusion screw 21, thereby achieving the venting function. At the same time, it also makes the solid and liquid materials in the mixture mix more evenly, and the density of the mixture can meet the requirements.

[0108] In other embodiments, the extrusion screw 21 includes a rod body 211 and a threaded blade 212. The threaded blade 212 is disposed on the rod body 211 and extends spirally along the axial direction of the rod body 211. The radial dimension of the rod body 211 gradually increases in the direction close to the discharge port 22a.

[0109] In this embodiment, with the diameter of the extrusion channel 22b remaining unchanged, as the mixture moves axially toward the discharge port 22a along the extrusion screw 21, the gap between the sidewall of the rod 211 and the sidewall of the extrusion channel 22b gradually decreases, thereby compressing the space for the mixture. The mixture is subjected to at least radial extrusion force along the extrusion screw 21, thus achieving the venting function. At the same time, it also makes the solid and liquid materials in the mixture more uniformly mixed, and the density of the mixture meets the requirements.

[0110] In some other embodiments, along the direction close to the discharge port 22a, the pitch of the threaded blade 212 gradually decreases, and the radial dimension of the rod 211 gradually increases.

[0111] In related technologies, the aerosol generating matrix segment is usually homogeneous, with a uniform density and load. During aspiration, the release of effective substances from the aerosol generating matrix segment is not uniform. For example, when a high-density aerosol generating matrix segment is heated and aspirated, the release of effective substances and smoke is limited in the early stage, but the release is more sufficient and sustained in the middle and later stages. When a low-density aerosol generating matrix segment is heated and aspirated, the release of effective substances and smoke is more sufficient in the early stage, but there is a significant attenuation in the middle and later stages. Both types of aerosol generating matrix segments with different densities have their own advantages and disadvantages.

[0112] As an example, the density range of the aerosol-generating matrix strips can be 400-1500 mg / cm³. 3 For example, it can be 400mg / cm 3 450mg / cm 3 500mg / cm 3 550mg / cm 3 600mg / cm 3 650mg / cm 3 700mg / cm 3 750mg / cm 3 800mg / cm 3 850mg / cm 3 900mg / cm 3 950mg / cm 3 1000mg / cm 3 1100mg / cm 3 1200mg / cm 3 1300mg / cm 3 1400mg / cm 3 1500mg / cm 3 wait.

[0113] Based on the technical problems mentioned above, the molding equipment in this application embodiment can also be used to prepare a heterogeneous aerosol generation matrix segment, which is an aerosol generation matrix segment including aerosol generation matrix strips of various densities.

[0114] In one embodiment, there are multiple extrusion devices 20 and multiple molding dies 40, with each molding die 40 corresponding to one extrusion device 20.

[0115] The extrusion device 20 can provide the same extrusion pressure. In this embodiment, there can also be multiple feeding devices 10, that is, one extrusion device 20 corresponds to one feeding device 10. In other words, multiple independent molding devices 100 are used, and the solid material formula and / or liquid material formula of each molding device 100 is different, or the solid material and liquid material ratio of each molding device 100 is different. Under the action of the same extrusion pressure, each molding device 100 can obtain aerosol generating matrix strips of different densities. The aerosol generating matrix strips of different densities are extruded simultaneously and transported to the packaging and cutting device 300 by the conveyor belt 200. After packaging and cutting, a heterogeneous aerosol production medium segment is obtained.

[0116] In other embodiments, there are multiple extrusion devices 20, and the number of molding dies 40 corresponds one-to-one with the number of extrusion devices 20. At least two extrusion devices 20 have different extrusion screws 21 to provide different extrusion parameters. "Extrusion parameters" can be parameters such as extrusion pressure.

[0117] It should be noted that the different extrusion screws 21 may be due to different pitches of the thread blades 212 mentioned above and / or different changes in the radial dimensions of the rod body 211.

[0118] In this embodiment, solid and liquid materials with the same formulation can be used. Since the extrusion device 20 provides different extrusion pressures, solid and liquid materials with the same formulation are subjected to different extrusion pressures after entering different extrusion devices 20, thereby extruding aerosols of different densities to generate matrix strips.

[0119] It is understood that in this embodiment, a set of feeding devices 10 can be used to supply solid and liquid materials to multiple extrusion devices 20; or multiple sets of feeding devices 10 can be used to supply solid and liquid materials to multiple extrusion devices 20 in a one-to-one correspondence.

[0120] Of course, in this embodiment, solid and liquid materials with different formulations can also be used.

[0121] Please see Figure 1 In one embodiment, the extrusion housing 22 has a feed port 22c communicating with the extrusion channel 22b. The feeding device 10 supplies solid and liquid materials into the extrusion channel 22b through the feed port 22c. The feed port 22c is located on the periphery of the extrusion screw 21, and the discharge port 22a is located on the axial side of the extrusion screw 21.

[0122] Understandably, the space in the extrusion screw 21 used to accommodate solid and liquid materials is the space between two adjacent threads. By setting the feed port 22c on the periphery of the extrusion screw 21, after the solid and liquid materials enter the extrusion channel 22b, they can more easily enter the space between two adjacent threads of the extrusion screw 21. Thus, they can move along the axial direction of the extrusion screw 21 under the action of the extrusion screw 21, reducing the probability of solid and liquid materials being stuck at the feed port 22c and blocking the feed port 22c.

[0123] In addition, the extrusion force provided by the extrusion screw 21 is basically parallel to the axial direction of the extrusion screw 21. By setting the discharge port 22a on one side of the axial direction of the extrusion screw 21, it is convenient for the mixture to be extruded through the discharge port 22a.

[0124] In one embodiment, the extrusion apparatus 20 further includes a heating element for heating the mixture.

[0125] In related technologies, the aerosol-generated matrix strips are typically dried after being formed. However, in this embodiment, the mixture is heated and dried within the extrusion device 20.

[0126] One advantage of heating the mixture in the extrusion unit 20 is that the drying steps and equipment for the aerosol matrix strips generated after extrusion can be simplified, eliminating the need to reserve a long space on the conveyor belt 200 to perform these steps. This reduces the length of the conveyor belt 200, thereby reducing production line costs and improving production efficiency.

[0127] Another advantage is that, since the aerosol generation matrix strip is at a relatively high temperature during extrusion, the solvent in the extruded aerosol generation matrix strip can evaporate quickly, which facilitates the rapid activation of the binder in the aerosol generation matrix strip, enhances the structural strength of the aerosol generation matrix strip, and further reduces the risk of breakage.

[0128] Another advantage is that most of the solvent in the aerosol generating matrix strip evaporates within a short time after extrusion. Therefore, during transportation, the shrinkage of the aerosol generating matrix strip due to solvent evaporation will be reduced, further reducing the risk of breakage.

[0129] The location of the heating element is not limited. In some embodiments, the heating element is sleeved on the outer wall of the extrusion housing 22. For example, it can be an electric heating coil, electric heating plate, or other structure disposed on the outer wall of the extrusion housing 22. The heating element is located outside the extrusion channel 22b, thus it is not affected by the mixture, which helps to improve the stability of the heating element.

[0130] In other embodiments, the heating element is disposed within the extrusion screw 21. For example, it could be an electric heating wire disposed inside the extrusion screw 21. The advantage of disposing of the heating element inside the extrusion screw 21 is that it allows for more uniform heating of the mixture, improves heating efficiency and effect, and facilitates precise control of the heating temperature. Specifically, in embodiments where the heating wire is disposed inside the extrusion screw 21, the heating efficiency can reach over 85%, while in related technologies where the aerosol-generated matrix strip is extruded and then dried, the drying efficiency is only 20%-35%.

[0131] Please see Figure 1 and Figure 2 In one embodiment, the molding equipment 100 further includes a transition connector 30 having a flow channel 30a. The two ends of the transition connector 30 are respectively connected to the extrusion device 20 and the molding die 40, and one end of the flow channel 30a is connected to the discharge port 22a, and the other end is connected to one end of the molding channel 40a.

[0132] It should be noted that when the molding die 40 is provided with multiple molding channels 40a, one end of each molding channel 40a is connected to the other end of the flow channel 30a.

[0133] It is understandable that, since multiple molding channels 40a are connected to a flow channel 30a respectively, the cross-sectional area of ​​the flow channel 30a is larger than the cross-sectional area of ​​the molding channel 40a.

[0134] In related technologies, the molding die is directly connected to the extrusion device, that is, the molding channel is directly connected to the discharge port. Since multiple aerosol generating matrix strips are extruded at the same time, but the discharge speed of the molding die is different, the toughness of the aerosol generating matrix strips is not high, which will lead to strip breakage, thus affecting production efficiency.

[0135] For example, such as Figure 1 As shown, when the extrusion device 20 includes an extrusion screw 21 and an extrusion housing 22, the extrusion screw 21 is rotatably disposed inside the extrusion housing 22. The mixture slides relative to the side wall of the thread gap of the extrusion screw 21. That is, during the rotation of the extrusion screw 21, the mixture is extruded sequentially along the circumference of the discharge port 22a, and thus the material is discharged sequentially along the circumference of the discharge port 22a. In other words, the discharge speed at each position in the circumference of the discharge port 22a is different. If the molding channel 40a is directly connected to the discharge port 22a, the discharge speed at the end of each molding channel 40a away from the discharge port 22a will be different.

[0136] In this embodiment, a transition connector 30 connects the molding die 40 and the extrusion device 20. The molding channel 40a and the discharge port 22a are indirectly connected via a flow channel 30a. The mixture is extruded through the discharge port 22a to form an extruded matrix. The extruded matrix gradually fills the space within the flow channel 30a. After the space within the flow channel 30a is filled, the extruded matrix extruded through the discharge port 22a continues to enter the flow channel 30a. The end of the flow channel 30a furthest from the discharge port 22a can simultaneously move towards the molding channel 40a and enter the molding channel 40a. The extrusion speed of the matrix on the cross section near the molding channel 40a is more balanced. That is, by setting the flow channel 30a between the discharge port 22a and the molding channel 40a, the flow channel 30a can balance the pressure at each point on the cross-sectional plane of the aerosol generation matrix strip, which is conducive to improving the consistency of each point on the cross-sectional plane. This is conducive to balancing the discharge speed of the molding channel 40a. The aerosol generation matrix strip can be continuously extruded through the molding channel 40a, which is conducive to improving the toughness of the aerosol generation matrix strip, reducing its breakage rate, and thus improving the production efficiency of the aerosol generation matrix strip.

[0137] The connection method between the transition connector 30 and the extrusion device 20 is not limited. For example, such as... Figure 2 As shown, the extrusion device 20 and the transition connector 30 are fastened together using bolts, screws, or other fasteners, or by means of detachable connection such as snap-fit ​​or plug-in. This facilitates the removal of the transition connector 30 for replacement or cleaning.

[0138] In other embodiments, the transition connector 30 and the extrusion device 20 may also be an integrally formed structure, or a non-detachable connection structure may be achieved by welding or other methods.

[0139] The connection method between the molding die 40 and the transition connector 30 is not limited. For example, please refer to... Figure 2 , Figures 6 to 8 The molding die 40 and the transition connector 30 are detachably connected. For example, the connection can be achieved by using detachable connection methods such as fastener fastening, snap-fit, or plug-in.

[0140] This facilitates the replacement or cleaning of the molding die 40. The molding equipment 100 can select a suitable molding die 40 based on actual needs, thereby preparing aerosol generation matrix strips of different specifications.

[0141] Of course, the molding die 40 and the transition connector 30 can also be connected by an integral molding structure or a non-detachable connection structure.

[0142] Please see Figure 1 , Figure 7 and Figure 8In one embodiment, the end of the flow channel 30a near the discharge port 22a is a constriction section 30aa, and the cross-sectional area of ​​the constriction section 30aa gradually decreases along the direction away from the discharge port 22a.

[0143] In other words, the extension direction of the sidewall of the constriction section 30aa is inclined relative to the extrusion direction of the extrusion matrix. By setting the constriction section 30aa at one end of the flow channel 30a near the discharge port 22a, it is easier for the extrusion matrix to enter the interior of the flow channel 30a.

[0144] Please see Figure 2 and Figure 6 In other embodiments, the flow channel 30a may not have a constriction section 30aa.

[0145] Please see Figure 6 and Figure 7 In some embodiments, the flow channel 30a extends in a straight line.

[0146] Please see Figure 8 In other embodiments, the flow channel 30a extends in a curved manner.

[0147] In some other embodiments, the flow channel 30a extends in a zigzag pattern.

[0148] In other words, by changing the extension direction of the flow channel 30a, the extrusion direction of the aerosol generation matrix strip can be controlled, that is, the extrusion direction of the aerosol generation matrix strip can be controlled based on actual needs.

[0149] Please see Figure 8 In one embodiment, the flow channel 30a includes a first connecting segment 30ab, a second connecting segment 30ac, and an arc transition segment 30ad. The first connecting segment 30ab and the second connecting segment 30ac are connected through the arc transition segment 30ad, and the second connecting segment 30ac is set at an angle to the first connecting segment 30ab.

[0150] The first connecting segment 30ab may extend horizontally, for example, and thus the second connecting segment 30ac is set at an angle relative to the height direction.

[0151] Specifically, when the flow channel 30a also includes a narrowing section 30aa, the narrowing section 30aa is located at the end of the first connecting section 30ab away from the arc transition section 30ad.

[0152] The extruded matrix flows from the first connecting section 30ab to the second connecting section 30ac. By setting the arc transition section 30ad, the resistance encountered by the extruded matrix during the flow process can be reduced.

[0153] In this embodiment, it is beneficial to improve the problem in related technologies where the aerosol-generating matrix strip, after being extruded from the molding channel 40a, will droop under gravity and touch the end wall of the molding mold 40.

[0154] The specific angle between the first connected segment 30ab and the second connected segment 30ac is not limited. For example, please refer to [link to example]. Figure 8 The angle between the first connected segment 30ab and the second connected segment 30ac is not less than 80° and not greater than 180°. For example, it can be 80°, 85°, 90°, 95°, 100°, 105°, 110°, 115°, 120°, 125°, 130°, 135°, 140°, 145°, 150°, 155°, 160°, 165°, 170°, 175°, 180°, etc.

[0155] Please see Figures 6 to 8 , Figure 10 In one embodiment, the cross-sectional area of ​​the molding channel 40a decreases as it moves away from the discharge port 22a.

[0156] It should be noted that the cross section of the molding channel 40a refers to the surface intercepted on the molding channel 40a by a plane perpendicular to the extension direction of the molding channel 40a.

[0157] In related technologies, the molding die has multiple molding channels, and the cross-sectional area of ​​each molding channel remains essentially unchanged in the direction away from the discharge port. Multiple aerosol generation matrix strips are simultaneously extruded from each molding channel. After leaving the molding channels, the aerosol generation matrix strips experience a certain amount of oscillation, causing adhesion between the multiple aerosol generation matrix strips. This is detrimental to subsequent processes such as drying the aerosol generation matrix strips, thus affecting production efficiency.

[0158] In this embodiment, the cross-sectional area of ​​the molding channel 40a decreases as it moves away from the discharge port 22a. As the extruded matrix moves from the end of the molding channel 40a near the discharge port 22a to the end away from the discharge port 22a, the extruded matrix will have a displacement that moves closer to the central axis of the molding channel 40a. This allows the aerosol generating matrix strip after being extruded through the molding channel 40a to move in a roughly straight line, reducing the probability of the aerosol generating matrix strip swaying. This is beneficial for improving the adhesion between multiple aerosol generating matrix strips. In subsequent production processes, it is easier to dry the aerosol generating matrix strips, thereby producing aerosol generating matrix segments and improving the production efficiency of aerosol generating matrix segments.

[0159] In one embodiment, the ratio of the cross-sectional area of ​​the molding channel 40a near the outlet 22a to the cross-sectional area away from the outlet 22a is not less than 2 and not greater than 3. For example, it can be 2, 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4, 2.5, 2.6, 2.7, 2.8, 2.9, 3, etc.

[0160] In other words, the molding channel 40a is roughly designed in the shape of a trumpet, which is conducive to the linear movement of the extruded aerosol matrix strip.

[0161] In one embodiment, the extrusion pressure at the junction of the flow channel 30a and the molding channel 40a is not less than 0.6 MPa and not greater than 3.0 MPa. For example, it is 0.6 MPa, 0.8 MPa, 1.0 MPa, 1.2 MPa, 1.4 MPa, 1.6 MPa, 1.8 MPa, 2.0 MPa, 2.2 MPa, 2.4 MPa, 2.6 MPa, 2.8 MPa, 3.0 MPa, etc.

[0162] It should be noted that 1 MPa is equivalent to 10 kilograms of pressure.

[0163] As an example, a pressure sensor can be installed at the connection between the flow channel 30a and the molding channel 40a to detect the extrusion pressure at that point.

[0164] The extrusion pressure at the connection between the flow channel 30a and the molding channel 40a is controlled within the range of 0.6MPa to 3.0MPa. As a result, the aerosol generation matrix strip can be continuously extruded from the molding channel 40a, and the density of the aerosol generation matrix strip can be controlled within a reasonable range.

[0165] It is understandable that the extrusion device 20 can be controlled by detecting the extrusion pressure at the connection between the flow channel 30a and the molding channel 40a. It is convenient to set up a pressure sensor at the connection between the flow channel 30a and the molding channel 40a. If the extrusion device 20 is controlled by detecting the extrusion pressure at the discharge port 22a, then the pressure sensor needs to be set at the discharge port 22a. The pressure sensor set at the discharge port 22a is easily affected by the extrusion screw 21, and its reliability is relatively low.

[0166] The extension length of the flow channel 30a and the extension length of the molding channel 40a depend on the cumulative value of their frictional resistance. The cumulative frictional resistance of the extension length of the flow channel 30a and the extension length of the molding channel 40a cannot exceed 2 / 3 of the extrusion pressure at the outlet 22a.

[0167] For example, the extension length of the flow channel 30a is as follows: Figure 6 As shown in D1, the extension length of the molding channel 40a is as follows: Figure 6 As shown in D2.

[0168] Please see Figure 6 In one embodiment, the extension length of the flow channel 30a is not less than 50 mm and not more than 500 mm. For example, it is 50 mm, 80 mm, 110 mm, 140 mm, 170 mm, 200 mm, 230 mm, 260 mm, 290 mm, 320 mm, 350 mm, 380 mm, 410 mm, 440 mm, 470 mm, 500 mm, etc.

[0169] In this embodiment, on the one hand, the extension length of the flow channel 30a is not less than 50mm, which is beneficial for the flow channel 30a to have a balanced discharge speed on the cross-section away from the discharge port 22a. On the other hand, the extension length of the flow channel 30a is not greater than 500mm, that is, the frictional resistance of the entire flow channel 30a can be controlled within a relatively suitable range. Thus, with the extrusion pressure of the discharge port 22a remaining unchanged, it is beneficial to set a sufficient extension length for the molding channel 40a, which is beneficial to ensure the molding effect of the molding channel 40a. At the same time, it is also beneficial to ensure that the aerosol generating matrix strip can be extruded in a straight line, reducing the probability of the aerosol generating matrix strip wobbling. When the molding mold 40 has multiple molding channels 40a, it is beneficial to improve the adhesion phenomenon between multiple aerosol generating matrix strips extruded simultaneously; or, with the extension length of the molding channel 40a remaining unchanged, it is beneficial to control the extrusion pressure of the discharge port 22a to not be too high.

[0170] Please see Figure 6 In one embodiment, the extension length of the molding channel 40a is not less than 5 mm and not more than 50 mm. For example, it is 5 mm, 8 mm, 11 mm, 14 mm, 17 mm, 20 mm, 23 mm, 26 mm, 29 mm, 32 mm, 35 mm, 38 mm, 41 mm, 44 mm, 47 mm, 50 mm, etc.

[0171] In this embodiment, the extension length of the molding channel 40a is not less than 5mm, which helps to ensure the molding effect of the molding channel 40a. It also facilitates the linear extrusion of the aerosol generation matrix strip, reducing the probability of wobbling. When the molding mold 40 has multiple molding channels 40a, it helps to improve the adhesion between multiple aerosol generation matrix strips extruded simultaneously. On the other hand, the extension length of the molding channel 40a is not greater than 50mm, meaning the frictional resistance of the entire molding channel 40a can be controlled within a relatively suitable range. Therefore, with the extrusion pressure at the outlet 22a remaining constant, it is beneficial to set a sufficient extension length for the flow channel 30a, thus ensuring a balanced discharge speed on the cross-section of the flow channel 30a away from the outlet 22a; or, with the extension length of the flow channel 30a remaining constant, it helps to control the extrusion pressure at the outlet 22a from becoming too high.

[0172] In related technologies, the filling rate of the aerosol generating matrix segment needs to be controlled within the range of 65%-90%. For example, it can be 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, etc. The filling rate of the aerosol generating matrix segment refers to the ratio of the sum of the cross-sectional areas of all aerosol generating matrix strips to the cross-sectional area of ​​the aerosol generating matrix segment itself. This filling rate can be achieved by reasonably setting the specific specifications or shape of the aerosol generating matrix strips.

[0173] In one embodiment, the cross-sectional area of ​​the end of the molding channel 40a furthest from the discharge port 22a is not less than 0.2 mm². 2 and no more than 40mm 2 For example, it can be 0.2mm. 2 0.4mm 2 0.6mm 2 1mm 2 2mm 2 3mm 2 4mm 2 5mm 2 10mm 2 15mm 2 20mm 2 25mm 2 30mm 2 35mm 2 40mm 2 wait.

[0174] In other words, in this embodiment, multiple molding channels 40a can be provided on the molding die 40, and the specifications of each molding channel 40a can be adjusted so that the cross-sectional area of ​​the aerosol matrix strip extruded through each molding channel 40a is less than 0.2 mm². 2 ~40mm 2 This allows for adjustment of the filling rate of the aerosol generation matrix segment.

[0175] Alternatively, multiple molding molds 40 can be used, with different cross-sectional areas at the end of the molding channel 40a away from the discharge port 22a on each molding mold 40, thus obtaining aerosol generation matrix strips with different cross-sectional areas.

[0176] In one embodiment, the maximum distance between two points on the cross-section of any molding channel 40a at the end away from the outlet 22a is not less than 0.5mm and not greater than 7mm. For example, it can be 0.5mm, 1mm, 1.5mm, 2mm, 2.5mm, 3mm, 3.5mm, 4mm, 4.5mm, 5mm, 5.5mm, 6mm, 6.5mm, 7mm, etc.

[0177] For example, when the cross-section of the molding channel 40a at the end away from the outlet 22a is circular, the maximum distance between two points on this cross-section is the diameter of the circle; when the cross-section of the molding channel 40a at the end away from the outlet 22a is square, the maximum distance between two points on this cross-section is the length of the diagonal of the square. In other words, there are countless points on the cross-section of the molding channel 40a at the end away from the outlet 22a, and the two points with the greatest straight-line distance are these "two points".

[0178] In this embodiment, multiple molding channels 40a can be provided on the molding die 40, and the specifications of each molding channel 40a can be adjusted so that the maximum distance between two points on the cross-section of the aerosol matrix strip extruded through each molding channel 40a can be controlled within 0.2 mm. 2 ~40mm 2 This allows for adjustment of the filling rate of the aerosol generation matrix segment.

[0179] Alternatively, by using multiple molding molds 40, the maximum distance between two points on the cross-section of the molding channel 40a away from the discharge port 22a on each molding mold 40 is different, and aerosol generation matrix strips of different specifications can also be obtained.

[0180] In one embodiment, the shape of the cross-section of the molding channel 40a at the end away from the discharge port 22a is circular, elliptical, polygonal, or racetrack-shaped.

[0181] In this embodiment, multiple molding channels 40a can be provided on the molding mold 40, and the shape of each molding channel 40a can be set to be different, so that the shape of the aerosol generating matrix strip extruded through each molding channel 40a is also different, thereby facilitating the adjustment of the filling rate of the aerosol generating matrix segment.

[0182] Alternatively, multiple molding molds 40 can be used, and the shape of the cross-section of the molding channel 40a on each molding mold 40 away from the discharge port 22a can be set to be different, which can also produce aerosol generation matrix strips of different shapes.

[0183] For example, when the cross-section of the molding channel 40a is circular, the aerosol generation matrix strip is cylindrical.

[0184] For example, when the cross-section of the molding channel 40a is elliptical, the aerosol generation matrix strip is elliptical cylindrical.

[0185] For example, when the cross-section of the molding channel 40a is polygonal, the aerosol generation matrix strip is prismatic. It should be noted that the polygon can be a convex polygon or a concave polygon; the polygon can be a regular polygon or a polygon with irregular sides.

[0186] For example, when the cross-section of the molding channel 40a is racetrack-shaped, the aerosol generation matrix strip is flat.

[0187] Of course, the shape of the cross section of the molding channel 40a at the end away from the discharge port 22a is not limited to a circle, ellipse, polygon or racetrack shape, but can be selected according to actual needs.

[0188] Please see Figure 15 In one embodiment, the molding die 40 has at least two molding channels 40a with different shapes and / or cross-sectional areas.

[0189] In other words, the number of molding channels 40a with different shapes on a molding die 40 is not less than two. For example, please refer to [link to example]. Figure 15 One of the two molding molds 40 includes rhomboid molding channels 40a and hexagonal molding channels 40a; or, a molding mold 40 has at least two molding channels 40a with different cross-sectional areas. For example, please refer to [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 15 One of the two molding molds 40 includes a molding channel 40a with a smaller area and a molding channel 40a with a larger area; or, the number of molding channels 40a with different shapes and cross-sectional areas on one molding mold 40 is not less than two.

[0190] In this embodiment, aerosol generating matrix strips of different specifications can be extruded onto a molding die 40, thereby changing the shape and / or cross-sectional area of ​​the molding channel 40a according to actual needs, thus facilitating the control of the filling rate of the aerosol generating matrix segment within the required range.

[0191] Please see Figure 11 In one embodiment, along the second direction, the distance between two adjacent molding channels 40a is not less than 2 mm and not more than 5 mm. For example, it can be 2 mm, 2.2 mm, 2.4 mm, 2.6 mm, 2.8 mm, 3 mm, 3.2 mm, 3.4 mm, 3.6 mm, 3.8 mm, 4 mm, 4.2 mm, 4.4 mm, 4.6 mm, 4.8 mm, 5 mm, etc.

[0192] The spacing between two adjacent molding channels 40a is as follows Figure 11 As shown in D3.

[0193] In this embodiment, there is a sufficient gap between the aerosol generating matrix strips extruded from two adjacent molding channels 40a of a molding die 40, thereby reducing the probability of adhesion between the aerosol generating matrix strips; at the same time, the gap between two adjacent molding channels 40a is not too large, thereby effectively controlling the size of the molding die 40, that is, the size of the molding equipment 100 can be controlled within a relatively reasonable range.

[0194] In one embodiment, the number of molding dies 40 is multiple.

[0195] It is understandable that the number of extrusion devices 20 can correspond one-to-one with the number of molding dies 40; of course, one extrusion device 20 can also correspond to multiple molding dies 40.

[0196] For example, when multiple extrusion devices 20 correspond one-to-one with multiple molding dies 40, aerosol generating matrix strips of different densities can be extruded onto each molding die 40, thereby producing a heterogeneous aerosol generating matrix segment. The specific operation of extruding aerosol generating matrix strips of different densities onto each molding die 40 is described above and will not be repeated here.

[0197] In one embodiment, at least two molding dies 40 are arranged along the second direction. Since the second direction intersects with the height direction, the molding dies 40 are not arranged entirely along the height direction. This helps to control the overall height of the accumulated molding dies 40 and the height difference between the top molding die 40 and the conveyor belt 200, thereby effectively reducing the probability of breakage after the aerosol-generated matrix strip is extruded.

[0198] Please see Figures 12 to 15 In other embodiments, at least two molding dies 40 are arranged along the height direction. This saves space occupied by the molding equipment 100 in the horizontal direction.

[0199] The projections of all the molding channels 40a onto a plane perpendicular to the height direction do not overlap.

[0200] It should be noted that when there are multiple molding dies 40, all molding channels 40a include molding channels 40a on all molding dies 40. That is, the molding channels 40a are staggered between rows along the height direction.

[0201] It is understandable that the aerosol generating matrix strips arranged along the height direction are eventually laid flat on the conveyor belt 200 along the second direction and transported by the conveyor belt 200 to the packaging and cutting equipment 300. In this embodiment, after the aerosol generating matrix strips extruded in each row along the height direction are laid flat on the conveyor belt 200, there will be a certain gap between adjacent aerosol generating matrix strips, which helps to reduce the probability of adhesion between the aerosol generating matrix strips.

[0202] Please see Figures 12 to 15 In one embodiment, the shape and / or area of ​​the molding channel 40a corresponding to at least two molding dies 40 at the end away from the discharge port 22a are different.

[0203] In other words, the shapes of the molding channels 40a corresponding to at least two molding molds 40 at the ends away from the discharge port 22a are different; or, the cross-sectional areas of the molding channels 40a corresponding to at least two molding molds 40 at the ends away from the discharge port 22a are different; or, the shapes and cross-sectional areas of the molding channels 40a corresponding to at least two molding molds 40 at the ends away from the discharge port 22a are both different.

[0204] In this embodiment, the aerosol generation matrix strips extruded simultaneously by multiple molding dies 40 have different specifications, which makes it easier to control the filling rate of the aerosol generation matrix segment within a reasonable range.

[0205] Furthermore, when the densities of the aerosol generation matrix strips extruded from multiple molding dies 40 are different, it is also possible to prepare a heterogeneous aerosol generation matrix segment while satisfying the aerosol generation matrix segment filling rate.

[0206] Please see Figure 12 In one embodiment, there are two molding molds 40. The molding channels 40a of the two molding molds 40 have the same shape at the end away from the discharge port 22a, but different areas.

[0207] Figure 12 The two molding dies 40 shown have circular molding channels 40a, but the cross-sectional area of ​​the circular molding channel 40a on one of the molding dies 40 is larger than that on the other molding die 40.

[0208] Thus, the aerosol matrix strips extruded by the two molding dies 40 have the same shape, but different cross-sectional areas.

[0209] Please see Figure 13 In one embodiment, there are two molding molds 40, and the shape of the molding channel 40a corresponding to each of the two molding molds 40 is different at the end away from the discharge port 22a.

[0210] Figure 13 The shape of the molding channel 40a on one of the molding molds 40 shown is rhomboid, and the shape of the molding channel 40a on the other molding mold 40 is circular.

[0211] Therefore, the aerosol matrix strips extruded through the two molding dies 40 have different shapes and cross-sectional areas that may be the same or different.

[0212] Please see Figure 14 In one embodiment, there are two molding molds 40. The shapes of the molding channels 40a corresponding to the two molding molds 40 at the ends away from the discharge port 22a are different. The areas of the molding channels 40a at the ends away from the discharge port 22a of any molding mold 40 are the same.

[0213] Figure 14 The shape of the molding channel 40a on one of the molding molds 40 shown is rhomboid, and the shape of the molding channel 40a on the other molding mold 40 is hexagonal.

[0214] Of course, the area of ​​each molding channel 40a of any molding mold 40 away from the discharge port 22a can also be different.

[0215] Please see Figure 15 In one embodiment, there are two molding molds 40. The molding channels 40a of the two molding molds 40 have different shapes at the ends away from the discharge port 22a. The cross-section of each molding channel 40a of any molding mold 40 at the end away from the discharge port 22a includes at least two shapes or two areas.

[0216] Figure 15 One of the molding molds 40 includes molding channels 40a with cross-sections of rhombus and hexagonal shapes; the other molding mold 40 has molding channels 40a with cross-sections of circular, but the areas of the circles can be different.

[0217] In some embodiments, the extrusion speed of the aerosol generating matrix strip at different locations may be different during the aerosol generating matrix strip extrusion step. For example, in some embodiments described below, a variety of aerosol generating matrix strips of different specifications may be formed, and the extrusion speeds of the various aerosol generating matrix strips of different specifications may have certain differences.

[0218] In some embodiments, during the aerosol generation matrix strip extrusion step, aerosol generation matrix strips of various sizes can be formed. Thus, the final aerosol generation matrix segment will include aerosol generation matrix strips of various sizes.

[0219] The specifications here include, but are not limited to, the composition, density, cross-sectional shape, and cross-sectional dimensions of the aerosol generating matrix strip.

[0220] In related technologies, the aerosol generating medium segment, formed by packaging multiple aerosol generating matrix strips, has all aerosol generating matrix strips of the same specifications. A potential problem with this is that it's difficult to ensure consistent aerosol release throughout the entire inhalation process, resulting in significant differences in smoke volume between puffs and a poor vaping experience. In this embodiment, however, the aerosol generating matrix segment can include a variety of aerosol generating matrix strips of different specifications. This increases the filling rate of the aerosol generating matrix segment and combines the advantages and smoke generation characteristics of various specifications of aerosol generating matrix strips, thereby improving the vaping experience and the uniformity of each puff.

[0221] As an example, aerosol generating matrix strips of different specifications can be aerosol generating matrix strips with different cross-sectional shapes, such as circles, ellipses, waist-shaped, rectangles, rhombuses, polygons, etc.

[0222] Aerosol generating matrix strips of different specifications can also be aerosol generating matrix strips with different cross-sectional dimensions. The cross-sectional dimensions can include the cross-sectional area and the maximum distance between two points on the cross-section. If either of these is different, it can be understood as a difference in cross-sectional dimensions. The maximum distance between two points on the cross-section can specifically be between 0.5mm and 7mm.

[0223] Aerosol generating matrix strips of different specifications can also be aerosol generating matrix strips with different densities. Specifically, the density of the aerosol generating matrix strips can range from 400-1500 mg / cm³. 3 .

[0224] In the aerosol generation matrix segments prepared using the above-mentioned aerosol generation matrix strips of various specifications, the filling rate of the aerosol generation matrix strips can be 65%-90%.

[0225] The following will introduce several specific methods to achieve "forming aerosol generation matrix strips of various specifications in the aerosol generation matrix strip extrusion step".

[0226] In some embodiments, the mixture is simultaneously extruded from multiple molding dies 40, the molding channels 40a of the multiple molding dies 40 having different cross-sectional shapes and / or cross-sectional dimensions, to form a variety of aerosol generation matrix strips with different cross-sectional shapes and / or cross-sectional dimensions.

[0227] The term "simultaneous extrusion" here refers to the situation where, while a mixture is being extruded in one mold 40, a mixture is also being extruded in another mold 40.

[0228] The cross-sectional shape and dimensions of the molding channel 40a here refer to the shape and dimensions of the flow section (perpendicular to the extrusion direction) of the molding channel 40a. If the shape and dimensions of different flow sections of the molding channel 40a along the extrusion direction are different, it should be understood as the shape and dimensions of the flow section closest to the conveyor belt 200 (the end of the extrusion direction). The cross-sectional dimensions include the area of ​​the flow section and the maximum distance between two points on the flow section.

[0229] The specific structure of the molding die 40 can be referred to the description in the relevant section above, and will not be repeated here.

[0230] In some other embodiments, the mixture can also be extruded from a molding die 40 having molding channels 40a with various cross-sectional shapes and / or different cross-sectional sizes to form aerosol generating matrix strips with various cross-sectional shapes and / or different cross-sectional sizes.

[0231] In some other embodiments, the mixture may be extruded simultaneously from multiple molding dies 40, each molding die 40 having a variety of molding channels 40a with different cross-sectional shapes and / or cross-sectional dimensions.

[0232] Those skilled in the art can select one or more of the above methods in combination to form aerosol generation matrix strips with different cross-sectional shapes and / or cross-sectional dimensions according to actual usage requirements.

[0233] In some embodiments, the mixture is simultaneously extruded from the plurality of molding dies 40 by means of a plurality of extrusion devices 20 corresponding one-to-one with the plurality of molding dies 40.

[0234] As mentioned above, the cross-sectional shape and size of each molding channel 40a in each molding die 40 are the same. In this embodiment, multiple extrusion devices 20 are used to extrude the mixture from multiple molding dies 40 respectively. In this way, the difference between the extrusion speeds of the aerosol generating matrix strips at each molding channel 40a in each molding die 40 is small, and the difference between the extrusion speeds of the aerosol generating matrix strips at each molding die 40 can be reduced by controlling the extrusion force of the multiple extrusion devices 20 respectively. In this way, the possibility of the aerosol generating matrix strip breaking during the transportation process is reduced.

[0235] In some embodiments, the mixture is simultaneously extruded from multiple extrusion devices 20 using different extrusion pressures to form matrix strips of various densities.

[0236] As an example, multiple identical extrusion units 20 can be controlled to operate at different power levels to provide different extrusion pressures to the mixture, and / or multiple different extrusion units 20 can be used to provide different extrusion pressures to the mixture. The different extrusion units 20 here can be extrusion units 20 with different screw pitches of the extrusion screw 21. There is no specific limitation on this, as long as it is possible for each extrusion unit 20 to provide different extrusion pressures.

[0237] In some embodiments, mixtures of different components are simultaneously extruded from multiple extrusion devices 20 to form aerosol generation matrix strips with different components.

[0238] In some embodiments, the mixture may be heated during the aerosol-generated matrix strip extrusion step.

[0239] In related technologies, the aerosol-generated matrix strip is typically dried after extrusion. However, in this embodiment, the mixture is heated and dried within the extrusion device 20.

[0240] In some embodiments, specifically in the aerosol-generating matrix strip extrusion step, the moisture content of the mixture is 6%-13%, such as 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 11%, 12%, or 13%. The extrusion temperature of the aerosol-generating matrix strip is 60°C-150°C, such as 60°C, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 100%, 110%, 120%, 130%, 140%, or 150%.

[0241] It is understandable that compared to drying after extrusion, heating and drying within the extrusion device 20 requires a relatively shorter heating time. Therefore, in this embodiment, the moisture content of the mixture is adjusted to 6%-13%, and the extrusion temperature of the aerosol generating matrix strip is adjusted to 60℃-150℃, so that the physical parameters, smoke generation performance, and aroma retention of the aerosol generating matrix strip can reach a level similar to or even better than those achieved by extrusion followed by drying. On the other hand, in related technologies, the shrinkage rate of aerosol generating matrix strips during baking is typically 5%-15%. However, with the moisture content and extrusion temperature provided in this embodiment, the shrinkage rate of the aerosol generating matrix strip after extrusion can be controlled to below 5%, or even virtually non-shrinkage. This further reduces the risk of breakage of the aerosol generating matrix strip.

[0242] In some other embodiments, the aerosol generating matrix strip baking step can also be performed before the aerosol generating matrix strips are bundled together, that is, the multiple aerosol generating matrix strips on the conveyor belt 200 are baked during the conveying process of the conveyor belt 200.

[0243] It should be noted that in this case, the mixture may or may not be heated within the extrusion device 20, and those skilled in the art can choose according to actual usage requirements.

[0244] In some embodiments, during the aerosol-generated matrix strip extrusion step, solid and liquid materials can be fed into the extrusion device 20 respectively, and the solid and liquid materials can be mixed into a mixture in the extrusion device 20.

[0245] It is understandable that, compared to pre-mixed materials, unmixed materials are in a dispersed state, which reduces the risk of clogging the feed inlet 22c during material feeding and facilitates precise control of the material feeding amount. Furthermore, the materials used to prepare the aerosol generation matrix strips typically contain adhesives. Unmixed materials, after being mixed in the extrusion unit 20, will be extruded in a shorter time, thus reducing the risk that the mixture will harden due to the evaporation of moisture from the adhesive and become unextrusive.

[0246] The specific method of mixing solid and liquid materials into a mixture in the extrusion device 20 can be referred to the description in the relevant section above, and will not be repeated here.

[0247] Furthermore, in some embodiments, solid and liquid materials can be continuously and quantitatively fed. Here, "continuous quantitative feeding" means feeding materials into the extrusion device 20 at a certain rate. The advantage of continuous quantitative feeding is that it can keep the extrusion device 20 in a relatively full state of mixed materials, thereby improving the extrusion effect and reducing the risk of breakage of the extruded aerosol matrix strip due to insufficient material.

[0248] Specifically, solid material can be added at a first speed, followed by liquid material at a second speed. The first and second speeds can be determined based on the extrusion speed of the aerosol matrix strip. This ensures that the material in the extrusion unit 20 remains relatively abundant during continuous extrusion.

[0249] In some other embodiments, materials may be fed at intervals or all at once.

[0250] The above embodiments are merely illustrative of the technical solutions of this application and are not intended to limit it. Although this application has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some or all of the technical features therein. These modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, and they should all be covered within the scope of the claims and specification of this application. In particular, as long as there is no structural conflict, the various technical features mentioned in the embodiments can be combined in any way. This application is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed herein, but includes all technical solutions falling within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A molding device for aerosol-generated matrix strips, characterized in that, include: Feeding device; An extrusion device having a discharge port, wherein the feeding device supplies solid and liquid materials to the extrusion device, the extrusion device mixes the solid and liquid materials to obtain a mixture, and is capable of extruding the mixture through the discharge port to form an extruded matrix; A molding die having molding channels for molding the extruded matrix to form the aerosol generating matrix strip; The molding equipment further includes a transition connector with a flow channel. The two ends of the transition connector are respectively connected to the extrusion device and the molding die. One end of the flow channel is connected to the discharge port, and the other end is connected to one end of the molding channel.

2. The molding equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The end of the flow channel near the discharge port is a constricted section, and the cross-sectional area of ​​the constricted section gradually decreases along the direction away from the discharge port.

3. The molding equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The flow channel extends in a straight line, a broken line, or a curve.

4. The molding equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The flow channel includes a first connecting segment, a second connecting segment, and an arc transition segment. The first connecting segment and the second connecting segment are connected through the arc transition segment, and the second connecting segment is set at an angle to the first connecting segment.

5. The molding equipment according to claim 4, characterized in that, The angle between the first connected segment and the second connected segment is not less than 80° and not greater than 180°.

6. The molding equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The extrusion pressure at the connection between the flow channel and the molding channel shall not be less than 0.6 MPa and not greater than 3.0 MPa.

7. The molding equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The extension length of the flow channel is not less than 50 mm and not more than 500 mm; and / or, The extension length of the molding channel is not less than 5mm and not more than 50mm.

8. The molding equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The extrusion device includes an extrusion screw and an extrusion housing. The extrusion housing has the discharge port. The extrusion screw is rotatably disposed inside the extrusion housing. The extrusion screw, by rotating, mixes the solid material and the liquid material to obtain the mixture, and can extrude the mixture through the discharge port to form the extruded matrix. The extrusion screw includes a rod body and threaded blades. The threaded blades are disposed on the rod body and extend helically along the axial direction of the rod body. Along the direction approaching the discharge port, the pitch of the threaded blades gradually decreases; and / or, The radial dimension of the rod gradually increases along the direction close to the discharge port.

9. The molding equipment according to claim 8, characterized in that, The number of extrusion devices and molding dies is multiple, and each molding die corresponds one-to-one with an extrusion device; and / or, The extrusion device further includes a heating element for heating the mixture. The heating element is disposed inside the extrusion screw, or the heating element is sleeved on the outer wall of the extrusion shell.

10. A production line for an aerosol production matrix segment, characterized in that, include: The molding apparatus according to any one of claims 1-9 is used to generate multiple aerosol generation matrix strips; The conveyor belt is located downstream of the forming equipment; A packaging and cutting device is located downstream of the conveyor belt. The conveyor belt transports multiple aerosol generating matrix strips to the packaging and cutting device. The packaging and cutting device is used to package the multiple aerosol generating matrix strips and then cut them into segments to obtain aerosol generating matrix segments.

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