Inductively heatable aerosol generating product and aerosol generating system

Abstract

The invention discloses an aerosol generating product capable of induction heating and an aerosol generating system.The aerosol generating product comprises an overall smoke generating section, a separated smoke emitting section and a receptor which are located at the far end and sequentially assembled, and the receptor extends from the interior of the overall smoke generating section to the interior of the separated smoke emitting section; the whole smoke generation section is a whole composed of a single smoke generation component, three or less smoke generation components or six or less smoke generation components, and the smoke generation components are 3D material porous bodies, 2D material aggregates or 1D material aggregates. The aerosol generating product provided by the invention can rapidly generate smoke and transfer nicotine through the first smoke agent in the overall smoke generation section in the preheating stage, and the overall smoke generation section absorbs heat to prevent local overheating of the smoke generation section, so that uniform heating and smoke generation of the smoke generation section are realized, and meanwhile, aroma supplementation is performed on a heated cigarette; the stable release of the essence is realized, the overall atomization amount of the heated cigarette is improved, and the moisture absorption of tobacco sheets and the like in the diffusion cigarette section can be avoided.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of induction heating cigarettes, specifically relating to an induction-heated aerosol generating product and an aerosol generating system. Background Technology

[0002] The tobacco sheets used in the smoking section of conventional heated cigarettes typically contain atomizing agents (propylene glycol, glycerol, etc.) and flavorings. To ensure consumers experience a sufficiently strong vapor production, a significant amount of atomizing agent is usually added to the tobacco sheets. However, excessive atomizing agent can cause the tobacco sheets to absorb moisture during storage. Furthermore, the flavorings added to the initial raw materials of the tobacco sheets typically evaporate in large quantities during the drying process, which is detrimental to cost control in heated cigarette production. Current technologies commonly employ the introduction of flavor capsules or flavoring during the cooling stage to enhance the user's aroma experience.

[0003] In the field of heated cigarettes, the smoke-generating section typically uses tobacco sheets as a carrier, and the release of visible smoke and characteristic aroma is achieved by adding external atomizing agents (polyols such as propylene glycol and glycerol) and flavorings. However, existing technologies present two long-standing contradictions: On the one hand, to ensure that consumers can instantly obtain sufficient vapor volume when inhaling, the total amount of atomizing agent must be increased to 15% to 25% of the dry weight of the sheet during the sheet forming stage. Such a high proportion of polyols is extremely prone to absorbing moisture and becoming damp during subsequent storage and transportation, leading to increased water activity of the sheet, pressure drop drift of the cigarette, increased void ratio, and even mold growth. On the other hand, the sheet needs to undergo hot air treatment at temperatures above 120°C during drying, re-drying, and re-drying. During this stage, most of the volatile flavorings (such as low-boiling-point alcohols, aldehydes, and esters) are carried away with the moisture, with an actual retention rate of less than 30%. Companies have to compensate for the loss of flavor through secondary flavoring (flavoring of capsules, incense sticks, incense cords, and flavoring of cooling granules). These additional processes not only increase material and process costs but also bring new problems such as poor consistency of capsule crushing force, delayed flavor release, or localized excessive concentration. At the same time, the liquid after the capsule breaks may migrate to the outer layer of the filter, affecting the appearance and consumer experience.

[0004] In addition, for induction-heated cigarettes, the sensor can quickly heat up during the preheating process through induction heating. However, due to the limited contact area between the sensor and the loose tobacco material, the smoke-generating agent (excluding nicotine) on the surface of the tobacco material is rapidly volatilized, while the nicotine component in the tobacco has not yet been released, resulting in an overly strong aroma and insufficient strength in the first puff of the electromagnetically heated cigarette.

[0005] Therefore, the industry urgently needs a cigarette structure design that can ensure high smoke volume without increasing the initial atomizing agent ratio in the thin film, while preventing the loss of flavoring due to high-temperature drying and ensuring uniform and coordinated release throughout the smoking process. This would solve the moisture absorption risks caused by high atomizing agent ratios and the cost and experience defects caused by high flavoring usage in the thin film. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The purpose of this invention is to solve the problem of uniformity of release throughout the smoking process of electromagnetically heated cigarettes. In a first aspect, an inductively heated aerosol generating article is provided, which includes an integral smoke generating section, a discrete smoke generating section and a sensor located at the distal end and assembled in sequence, wherein the sensor extends from the interior of the integral smoke generating section to the interior of the discrete smoke generating section.

[0007] Furthermore, the overall smoke-generating section is an integral part composed of a single smoke-generating component, up to three smoke-generating components, or up to six smoke-generating components; the smoke-generating component is a 3D porous material, a 2D material aggregate, or a 1D material aggregate.

[0008] Furthermore, the 3D porous material includes porous ceramics, porous sponges, porous foam polymers, porous foam metals, or plant-based materials; further, the 2D material aggregate is formed from one or more layers of sheets by winding, folding, compressing, shrinking, wrinkling, or curling; the sheet includes paper materials, non-woven fabrics, or polymer films; and the sheet has breathable pores formed on it; further, the 1D material aggregate is formed from cellulose acetate fibers, polyester fibers, polyolefin fibers, polyethylene fibers, polyester fibers, polypropylene fibers, nylon fibers, polylactic acid fibers, or plant fibers.

[0009] Furthermore, the smoke-generating component is impregnated or sprayed with a first smoke-generating agent.

[0010] Furthermore, the smoke-generating component contains microcapsules containing a first smoke-generating agent.

[0011] Furthermore, a gel-state or solid first smoke-generating agent is embedded in the smoke-generating component.

[0012] Furthermore, the discrete smoke-generating segment comprises 7 or more, 20 or more, or 100 or more discrete smoke-generating units; the smoke-generating units are tobacco sheets, tobacco particles, and / or tobacco shreds.

[0013] Furthermore, the integral smoke-generating section has a first smoke-generating agent, which includes nicotine or nicotine salts; the discrete smoke-generating section has a second smoke-generating agent, which does not include nicotine or nicotine salts.

[0014] Furthermore, the aerosol generating article also includes a support section, a cooling section, and / or a filter section located near the discrete smoke-generating section and assembled in sequence; the integral smoke-generating section and the discrete smoke-generating section are connected by wrapping with aluminum foil or aluminum foil paper.

[0015] Secondly, an induction heating aerosol generation system is provided, including any one of the above-mentioned aerosol generation products and induction heating aerosol generation devices.

[0016] Among them, aerosol-generating products are smoking products, including aerosol-forming matrix, which generates aerosols through heating that can be directly inhaled into the lungs of the user through the user's mouth.

[0017] Preferably, the aerosol forming matrix in the overall smoke-generating section is primarily a liquid-based first smoke-generating agent. Preferably, the first smoke-generating agent comprises nicotine or a nicotine salt. The solid aerosol forming matrix may also be contained in one or more capsules, which may melt during heating of the solid aerosol forming matrix or be broken by the consumer before use.

[0018] Preferably, the aerosol-forming matrix in the discrete smoke-generating section is primarily a solid aerosol-forming matrix, particularly comprising tobacco. This includes one or more of the following: powder, granules, pellets, fragments, strips, bars, or sheets; and contains one or more of the following: herbaceous plant leaves, tobacco leaves, tobacco ribs, flat tobacco, and homogenized tobacco. For example, tobacco sheets, tobacco granules, or shredded natural tobacco or tobacco stems, particularly those known as homogenized tobacco sheets. Alternatively or additionally, it may include aerosol-forming materials that do not contain tobacco, such as paper sheets comprising nicotine salts and aerosol-forming agents. Alternatively, the solid aerosol-forming matrix may further comprise a second smoke-generating agent to enhance the smoke-generating effect.

[0019] In this patent, homogeneous tobacco material refers to a material formed by aggregating particulate tobacco.

[0020] In this patent, sheet refers to a layered element having a width and length substantially greater than its thickness.

[0021] In this patent, aggregate refers to sheets that are generally transverse to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating article, and are wound, folded, compressed, shrunken, wrinkled, or rolled.

[0022] In this patent, textured sheet refers to a sheet that has been rolled, embossed, stamped, perforated, or otherwise deformed. The aerosol forming matrix may comprise an aggregated textured sheet of homogeneous tobacco material, including a plurality of spaced-apart notches, protrusions, perforations, or combinations thereof. Preferably, the aerosol forming matrix comprises an aggregated rolled sheet of homogeneous tobacco material. The use of textured sheets of homogeneous tobacco material can advantageously promote the aggregation of homogeneous tobacco material sheets to form an aerosol forming matrix.

[0023] In this patent, "curled sheet" refers to a sheet having a plurality of substantially parallel ridges or folds. Preferably, when the aerosol-generating article has been assembled, the substantially parallel ridges or folds extend along or parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating article. This advantageously promotes the aggregation of the curled sheet of homogeneous tobacco material to form an aerosol-forming matrix. However, it will be understood that the curled sheet for the homogeneous tobacco material contained in the aerosol-generating article may alternatively or additionally have a plurality of substantially parallel ridges or folds arranged at acute or obtuse angles to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating article when the aerosol-generating article has been assembled.

[0024] The aerosol forming matrix can be in the form of a plug, which includes an aerosol forming material defined by paper or other packaging material. In the case where the aerosol forming matrix is ​​in the form of a plug, an integral plug comprising any packaging paper is considered to be an aerosol forming matrix.

[0025] Preferably, the aerosol-forming matrix includes a plug comprising an aggregate of homogeneous tobacco material or other aerosol-forming material surrounded by packaging. Preferably, the receptor is located within the plug in direct contact with the aerosol-forming material.

[0026] In this patent, the term "smoke-generating agent," i.e., aerosol forming agent, is used to describe any suitable known compound or mixture of compounds that promotes aerosol formation in use and is substantially resistant to thermal degradation at the operating temperature of the aerosol-generating article. Suitable aerosol forming agents are known in the art and include, but are not limited to: polyols, such as propylene glycol, triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol, and glycerol; esters of polyols, such as glyceryl monoacetate, glyceryl diacetate, or glyceryl triacetate; and aliphatic esters of mono-, di-, or polycarboxylic acids, such as dimethyl dodecanoate and dimethyl tetradecanoate. Preferred aerosol forming agents are polyols or mixtures thereof, such as propylene glycol, triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol, and most preferably glycerol. The aerosol forming matrix may comprise a single aerosol forming agent. Alternatively, the aerosol forming matrix may comprise a combination of two or more aerosol forming agents.

[0027] Preferably, the aerosol forming matrix has an aerosol forming agent content of more than 5% by dry weight. More preferably, the aerosol forming matrix may have an aerosol forming agent content between about 5% and about 30% by dry weight. In one embodiment, the aerosol forming matrix has an aerosol forming agent content of about 20% by dry weight.

[0028] Aerosol forming matrices, including those used to homogenize tobacco sheets in aerosol-generating articles, can be manufactured using existing manufacturing processes in the field, such as rolling, slurry, and papermaking.

[0029] Preferably, the aerosol forming article includes an integral smoke-generating section, a discrete smoke-generating section, a support section, an aerosol cooling section, and a filtration section. Preferably, these sections are generally cylindrical and have substantially similar outer diameters. For example, they have an outer diameter of at least 5 mm. Preferably, they have an outer diameter between approximately 5 mm and approximately 12 mm, for example, between approximately 5 mm and approximately 10 mm, or between approximately 6 mm and approximately 8 mm. In a preferred embodiment, the outer diameter is 7.2 mm + / - 10%.

[0030] The integral smoke-generating section is located upstream of the discrete smoke-generating section and can have a length between approximately 2 mm and approximately 8 mm, for example, between approximately 4 mm and approximately 6 mm, and can prevent smoke-generating cells from detaching from the distal end of the discrete smoke-generating section.

[0031] The discrete smoke-generating section can have a length between approximately 5 mm and approximately 15 mm, for example, between approximately 8 mm and approximately 12 mm. Preferably, it is 11 mm to 13 mm.

[0032] The support segment can be located directly downstream of the aerosol-forming matrix and adjacent to the discrete smoke-generating segment, and can prevent smoke-generating monomers from detaching from the proximal end of the discrete smoke-generating segment. The support element can be formed from any suitable material or combination of materials. For example, the support element can be formed from one or more materials selected from the group consisting of: cellulose acetate; paperboard; crimped paper, such as crimped heat-resistant paper or crimped parchment; and polymeric materials, such as low-density polyethylene (LDPE). In a preferred embodiment, the support element is formed of cellulose acetate. The support element can include a hollow tubular element. In a preferred embodiment, the support element includes a medium cellulose acetate tube. The support element can have a length between approximately 5 mm and approximately 15 mm. In a preferred embodiment, the support element has a length of approximately 8 mm.

[0033] The aerosol cooling section can be located downstream of the aerosol forming matrix; for example, it can be directly downstream of and adjacent to the support section. Alternatively, the aerosol cooling section can be located between the support section and the filter section, with the filter section located at the very downstream end of the aerosol-generating article. The aerosol cooling section can have a total surface area between approximately 300 square millimeters per millimeter of length and approximately 1000 square millimeters per millimeter of length. In a preferred embodiment, the aerosol cooling section has a total surface area of ​​approximately 500 square millimeters per millimeter of length. The aerosol cooling section is alternatively referred to as a heat exchanger.

[0034] Preferably, the aerosol cooling section has low suction resistance. That is, preferably, the aerosol cooling section provides low resistance to air passing through the aerosol-generated article. Preferably, the aerosol cooling section has virtually no impact on the suction resistance of the aerosol-generated article.

[0035] The aerosol cooling section may include multiple longitudinally extending channels. These channels may be defined by a sheet material that has undergone one or more of curling, pleating, gathering, and folding to form the channels. Alternatively, the multiple longitudinally extending channels may be defined by a single sheet that has undergone one or more of curling, pleating, gathering, and folding to form multiple channels.

[0036] In some embodiments, the aerosol cooling section may include an aggregate of materials selected from the group consisting of: metal foil, polymeric materials, and substantially non-porous paper or paperboard. In some embodiments, the aerosol cooling section may include an aggregate of materials selected from the group consisting of: polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polylactic acid (PLA), cellulose acetate (CA), and aluminum foil. In a preferred embodiment, the aerosol cooling element includes an aggregate of biodegradable materials. For example, an aggregate of non-porous paper or an aggregate of biodegradable polymeric materials (such as polylactic acid).

[0037] The aerosol cooling section can be formed from aggregated sheets of material having a specific surface area between approximately 10 mm² / mg and approximately 100 mm² / mg by weight. In some embodiments, the aerosol cooling section can be formed from aggregated sheets of material having a specific surface area of ​​approximately 35 mm² / mg.

[0038] The aerosol cooling section may have circumferential ventilation holes that allow outside air to be introduced into the internal hollow space.

[0039] The aerosol generating article may include a filter section, i.e., a mouthpiece, located at the mouth end of the aerosol generating article. The mouthpiece may be located immediately downstream of and adjacent to an aerosol cooling section. The mouthpiece may include a filter tip. The filter tip may be formed of one or more suitable filter materials. Many such filter materials are known in the art. In one embodiment, the mouthpiece may include a filter tip formed of cellulose acetate tow.

[0040] The mouthpiece can have a length between approximately 5 mm and approximately 20 mm. In a preferred embodiment, the mouthpiece has a length of approximately 14 mm. The mouthpiece can also have a length between approximately 5 mm and approximately 14 mm. In a preferred embodiment, the mouthpiece has a length of approximately 7 mm.

[0041] The components of the aerosol-generating article (e.g., the aerosol-forming matrix and any other components of the aerosol-generating article, such as the support section, the aerosol cooling section, and the mouthpiece) are surrounded by an outer packaging. The outer packaging is formed of any suitable material or combination of materials. Preferably, the outer packaging paper is cigarette paper.

[0042] An aerosol generating device is used to describe an apparatus that interacts with an aerosol-forming matrix of an aerosol-generating article to generate an aerosol. Preferably, the aerosol generating device is a smoking device that interacts with the aerosol-generating matrix of the aerosol-generating article to generate an aerosol that can be directly inhaled into the user's lungs through the user's mouth. The aerosol generating device may be a fixator for a smoking article.

[0043] A sensor is a material that can convert electromagnetic energy into heat. When placed in a fluctuating electromagnetic field, the eddy currents induced in the sensor cause it to heat up. In aerosol-forming articles, the sensor is positioned in thermal contact with the aerosol-forming matrix, which is then heated by the sensor.

[0044] The aerosol generating article is designed to engage with an electrically operated aerosol generating device, including an induction heating source. The induction heating source or sensor generates a fluctuating electromagnetic field to heat a sensor located within the fluctuating electromagnetic field. In use, the aerosol generating article engages with the aerosol generating device such that the sensor is located within the fluctuating electromagnetic field generated by the sensor.

[0045] The length of the receptor is greater than its width or thickness, for example, more than twice its width or thickness. Therefore, the receptor can be described as an elongated receptor. The receptor can be arranged generally longitudinally within the aerosol-generating matrix. This means that the length of the elongated receptor is arranged approximately parallel to the longitudinal direction of the aerosol-generating matrix, for example, within plus or minus 10 degrees. In a preferred embodiment, the elongated receptor can be located at a radial center position within the aerosol-generating matrix and extend along the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating matrix.

[0046] The receptor is preferably needle-shaped, strip-shaped, or leaf-shaped. Preferably, the receptor has a length of 5 mm to 15 mm, for example, between 6 mm and 12 mm or between 8 mm and 10 mm. Preferably, the elongated receptor has a length substantially the same as the aerosol-forming matrix. Preferably, the receptor can have a width of 1 mm to 5 mm and a thickness of 0.01 mm to 2 mm, for example, 0.5 mm to 2 mm. A preferred embodiment may have a thickness between 10 micrometers and 500 micrometers, more preferably between 10 micrometers and 100 micrometers. If the receptor has a constant cross-section, such as a circular cross-section, it has a preferred width or diameter of 1 mm to 5 mm.

[0047] The sensor can be made of any material capable of being heated inductively to a temperature sufficient to generate an aerosol matrix. Preferred sensors include metals or carbon. Preferred sensors may include ferromagnetic materials, such as ferrite, ferromagnetic steel, or stainless steel. Suitable sensors may be aluminum or may include aluminum. Preferred sensors may be made of 400 series stainless steel, such as grade 410, 420, or 430 stainless steel. Different materials will consume different amounts of energy when placed in an electromagnetic field with similar frequency and field strength. Therefore, parameters of the sensor, such as material type, length, width, and thickness, can be varied within a known electromagnetic field to provide the desired energy consumption.

[0048] The preferred sensor may be heated to a temperature exceeding 250 degrees Celsius. A suitable sensor may include a non-metallic core having a metallic layer disposed on the non-metallic core, such as metallic traces formed on the surface of a ceramic core.

[0049] The sensor may have an outer protective layer, such as a ceramic or glass protective layer encapsulating the elongated sensor, thereby forming a complete heating element. The sensor may include a protective coating formed of glass, ceramic, or inert metal on the core of the sensor material.

[0050] The sensors are arranged to be in thermal contact with the integral smoke-generating section and the discrete smoke-generating section. Therefore, when the sensors are heated, the integral and discrete smoke-generating sections are heated and form aerosols. Each integral and discrete smoke-generating section may contain one sensor; alternatively, multiple sensors may be included in each section. The sensor shapes may include elongated, granular, mesh-like, radial, tubular, hourglass-shaped, spiral, etc.

[0051] The aerosol generating device can generate a fluctuating electromagnetic field between approximately 1 MHz and 30 MHz, for example, between 2 MHz and 10 MHz, or for example, between 5 MHz and 7 MHz, through the induction coil of the induction emitter.

[0052] Preferably, the aerosol generating device is capable of generating a wave electromagnetic field with a field strength (H field) between 1 kA / m and 5 kA / m, for example between 2 kA / m and 3 kA / m, for example about 2.5 kA / m.

[0053] The induction coil material should be a material with good conductivity, such as metal; in addition, in this patent, the induction coil material should also have good elastic deformation ability, and can be spring steel, gold, silver or other metals.

[0054] The movable coil support and fixed coil support of the induction coil can be connected to the induction coil body through methods such as integral molding, welding, or clamping. The displacement of the movable coil support can be achieved manually or by motor drive.

[0055] An aerosol generator is a portable or handheld device that can be comfortably held between the fingers of one hand. The shape of the aerosol generator is generally cylindrical. The aerosol generator can have a length between approximately 70 mm and approximately 120 mm.

[0056] The power source can be any suitable power source, such as a DC voltage source, like a battery. In one embodiment, the power source is a lithium-ion battery. Alternatively, the power source can be a nickel-metal hydride battery, a nickel-cadmium battery, or a lithium-based battery, such as a lithium cobalt, lithium iron phosphate, lithium titanate, or lithium polymer battery.

[0057] The control element can be a simple switch. Alternatively, the control element can be a circuit and may include one or more microprocessors or microcontrollers.

[0058] An aerosol generation system may include an aerosol generation device and one or more aerosol generation articles, wherein the aerosol generation device is configured with a corresponding number of heating chambers to contain the aerosol generation articles.

[0059] This invention designs an electromagnetically heated cigarette with a composite smoke-generating section, comprising a shorter flavor-enhancing atomizing section and a tobacco atomizing section. The sensor of the electromagnetic induction heating element runs through both sections, and by independently heating them to different temperatures, it simultaneously delivers flavorings and nicotine.

[0060] The specific advantages of this invention are mainly reflected in the following aspects: 1. During the preheating stage, the first smoke-generating agent in the overall smoke-generating section rapidly generates smoke and transfers nicotine; 2. During the preheating stage, heat absorption by the overall smoke-generating section is used to prevent local overheating of the discrete smoke-generating section, thereby achieving uniform heating and smoke generation of the discrete smoke-generating section; 3. To replenish the flavor of heated cigarettes, achieving a stable release of the flavoring; 4. Improve the overall atomization amount of heated cigarettes; 5. The entire smoke-generating section blocks the air, preventing the tobacco flakes in the discrete smoke-generating sections from absorbing moisture. Attached Figure Description

[0061] The above description of the present invention and the following detailed embodiments will be better understood when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that the drawings are merely examples of the claimed technical solutions.

[0062] Figure 1 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the aerosol-generated product of the present invention; Figure 2 This is a three-dimensional schematic diagram of the combination of the smoke-generating component and the sensor in one embodiment; Figure 3 This is a top view schematic diagram of the smoke-generating component combined with the sensor in another embodiment; Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the aerosol generation system of the present invention.

[0063] The reference numerals in the attached figures are explained as follows: Aerosol-generated products: 100 Discrete smoke generation section: 110 Support segment: 120 Cooling section: 130 Filtering section: 140 Overall smoke-generating section: 150 First smoke-generating component: 151 Second smoke-generating component: 152 Receptors: 160 First receptor segment: 161 Second receptor segment: 162 Package: 170 Aluminum foil: 171 Formed paper: 172 Tipping paper: 173 Aerosol generating device: 200 Power supply and control components: 210 Heating chamber: 220 Induction coil: 230 First induction coil: 231 Second induction coil: 232 Detailed Implementation

[0064] The following detailed description of the features and advantages of this application is sufficient to enable any person skilled in the art to understand the technical content of this application and implement it accordingly. Based on the specification, claims and drawings disclosed in this specification, those skilled in the art can easily understand the related objectives and advantages of this application.

[0065] The invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which similar reference numerals denote similar elements. While specific structures and arrangements are discussed, it should be understood that this is done merely for illustrative purposes. Those skilled in the art will recognize that other structures and arrangements can be used without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the invention can also be used in a variety of other applications.

[0066] In this specification and claims, several terms will be used, and unless otherwise indicated, these terms will be defined to have the following meanings: The singular forms “a” and “the” include their corresponding plural forms. “At least one” means one or more, and “more” means two or more. “At least one of the following” or similar expressions refer to any combination of these items, including any combination of single or plural items. For example, at least one of a, b, or c can be expressed as: a, b, c, ab, ac, bc, or abc, where a, b, and c can be single or multiple.

[0067] All figures used to represent component amounts, properties (e.g., molecular weight), reaction conditions, etc., should be considered to be modified in all cases by the terms "within the unavoidable margin of error" or "about". Therefore, the numerical values ​​set forth herein are approximate and may vary depending on the desired properties sought to be obtained by the present invention. The principles of equivalents, which are applied to a minimum and not intended to limit the scope of the claims, should be applied, for example, each value should be interpreted at least according to the reported significant digits and by applying conventional rounding techniques.

[0068] It should be understood that the term "and / or" in this article is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A existing alone, A and B existing simultaneously, or B existing alone. A and B can be singular or plural. Additionally, the character " / " in this article generally indicates an "or" relationship between the preceding and following related objects, but it can also represent an "and / or" relationship. Please refer to the context for a more accurate understanding.

[0069] In the description of this embodiment, it should be noted that the terms "upper", "lower", "inner", "bottom", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, or the orientation or positional relationship in which the product is usually placed during use. They are only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this application.

[0070] All other terms used herein for special definition are intended to have the general meaning understood by one of ordinary skill in the art, and in particular, meaning that one of ordinary skill in the art, upon reading the claims, specification and drawings of this patent, can directly and without doubt determine how the technical solution of this patent can be implemented.

[0071] Even if there are incomplete descriptions, omissions, or ambiguities in the grammar, words, punctuation, graphics, symbols, etc. of the claims, specification, and drawings of this patent, a person skilled in the art can still arrive at the only correct understanding by reading the claims, specification, and drawings as a whole without extensive reasoning or experimentation, and effectively exclude various incorrect interpretations that are not aimed at achieving the purpose of this patent.

[0072] Those skilled in the art would first choose to read the claims, specification, and drawings of this patent to reasonably interpret the terms; secondly, they would choose to refer to the relevant definitions in other documents published by the applicant before the filing date to reasonably interpret the terms; thirdly, they would choose the references cited in this patent to reasonably interpret the terms; and finally, they would choose to combine the technical dictionaries, technical manuals, reference books, textbooks, national or industry technical standards, etc., commonly used by those skilled in the art to reasonably interpret the terms.

[0073] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this application clearer, the embodiments of this application will be described in further detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0074] Based on consumer usage habits, the direction closer to the consumer's mouth during suction is referred to as the proximal end in this article, while the direction farther away from the consumer's mouth is referred to as the proximal end in this article.

[0075] like Figure 1 As shown, the aerosol generating product 100 is typically in the form of a cigarette, including an integral smoke-generating section 150 from the distal end to the proximal end, a discrete smoke-generating section 110, a support section 120, a cooling section 130, a filter section 140, and a sensor 160.

[0076] The integral smoke-generating section 150 and the discrete smoke-generating section 110 together can be referred to as the composite smoke-generating section. The receptor 160 extends from the interior of the integral smoke-generating section 150 to the interior of the discrete smoke-generating section 110. The integral smoke-generating section 150, as an aroma-enhancing smoke-generating section, can form an aerosol containing flavoring molecules, while the discrete smoke-generating section 110, as a tobacco smoke-generating section, can form an aerosol containing nicotine. Both are rich in atomizing agents; the atomizing agent in the former supplements the atomizing agent in the latter, providing a sufficient amount of smoke for the user experience, and the flavoring molecules in the former also enhance the overall aroma experience. In one specific embodiment, the receptor 160 extends through the distal end of the composite smoke-generating section, meaning the receptor can be directly observed from the distal end.

[0077] In one specific embodiment, the overall smoke-generating section 150 is composed of a single smoke-generating component, into which a first sensor segment 161 of the sensor 160 is inserted. For example... Figure 2As shown, in another specific embodiment, the overall smoke-generating section 150 is composed of two semi-cylinders, namely the first smoke-generating component 151 and the second smoke-generating component 152, which are joined together, with the first sensor segment 161 of the sensor 160 sandwiched between them. Figure 3 As shown, in another specific embodiment, the overall smoke-generating section 150 is composed of six hexagonal prisms, and the first sensor section 161 of the sensor 160 is surrounded therein. The smoke-generating component is a 3D porous material, a 2D material aggregate, or a 1D material aggregate.

[0078] In one specific embodiment, the smoke-generating component is a 3D porous material. The porous material can be manufactured using known materials and processes, specifically including porous ceramics, porous sponges, porous foam polymers, porous foam metals, or plant-based fasteners. The plant-based fasteners can be molded from a paste-like mixture of plant (especially tobacco) raw material powder, binder or starch, smoke-generating agent, and water, thereby forming through-holes for gas flow.

[0079] In one specific embodiment, the smoke-generating component is a 2D material aggregate, which is formed by one or more layers of sheets through winding, folding, compression, shrinking, wrinkling or curling. The sheets include paper materials, non-woven fabrics or polymer films, and air vents may also be formed on the sheets.

[0080] In one specific embodiment, the smoke-generating component is a 1D material aggregate composed of cellulose acetate fiber, polyester fiber, polyolefin fiber, polyethylene fiber, polyester fiber, polypropylene fiber, nylon fiber, polylactic acid fiber, or plant fiber. Known plasticizers or adhesives may be appropriately added between the fibers for shaping.

[0081] In one embodiment, the smoke-generating component is impregnated or sprayed with a first smoke-generating agent. In another embodiment, microcapsules containing the first smoke-generating agent are embedded in or between the smoke-generating components. In yet another embodiment, a gel-state or solid first smoke-generating agent is embedded in or between the smoke-generating components. The first smoke-generating agent can be common e-cigarette liquids, e-cigarette gels, etc. Since most smoke-generating component materials, except for plant-based components, do not contain sufficient nicotine, the first smoke-generating agent may also contain nicotine or nicotine salts.

[0082] Because the first smoke-generating agent in the overall smoke-generating section 150 has good fluidity, it can be evenly distributed on the outer surface of the first sensor section 161. And when the first sensor section 161 is heated and smokes, the first smoke-generating agent in other parts can be quickly replenished to the surface of the first sensor section 161.

[0083] The discrete smoking section 110 is mainly composed of reconstituted tobacco sheets, reconstituted tobacco particles, or tobacco shreds, which serve as smoking monomers, and can also be referred to as a tobacco section. A second smoking agent is usually added during the manufacturing process of the smoking monomer. Since the raw materials of the smoking monomer contain tobacco components, the second smoking agent typically does not contain nicotine or nicotine salts. In one specific embodiment, the discrete smoking section contains 150 orderly arranged tobacco sheets; in another specific embodiment, the discrete smoking section contains 168 randomly arranged tobacco sheets; in yet another specific embodiment, the discrete smoking section contains 80 tobacco sheets that are not completely broken and are wrinkled and gathered together; in yet another specific embodiment, the discrete smoking section contains 250 heated tobacco shreds; in yet another specific embodiment, the discrete smoking section contains 135 tobacco particles.

[0084] A second sensor segment 162 of the sensor 160 is inserted into the discrete smoke-generating section 110. In the loose smoke-generating monomer, only a portion is in thermal contact with the sensor, resulting in a limited overall contact area. Furthermore, the second smoke-generating agent in the discrete smoke-generating section has very low fluidity, which easily leads to localized overheating in existing technologies, causing uncontrollable uniformity and coordination of the smoke. In this invention, the second sensor segment 162 is integrally formed with or in thermal contact with the first sensor segment 161. The heat energy from localized overheating of the second sensor segment 162 can be conducted to the first sensor segment 161 and cooled by the volatilization of the more fluid first smoke-generating agent.

[0085] Furthermore, the support section 120, cooling section 130, and filter section 140 together can be referred to as a filter rod section. In another specific embodiment, the cigarette filter rod section can be a combination of a hollow section and a filter section, or a combination of a cooling component and a filter section.

[0086] The aforementioned components can be fixed and / or connected via specific layers in the wrapping component 170. For example, the smoke-generating section can be wrapped with aluminum foil 171, aluminum foil, or cigarette paper. Using aluminum foil 171 or aluminum foil can better coordinate the temperature field distribution between the overall smoke-generating section 150 and the discrete smoke-generating section 110. The support section 120, cooling section 130, and filter section 140 can be wrapped with forming paper. The components can also be connected to each other using splicing paper 173.

[0087] like Figure 4As shown, the electromagnetic aerosol generating apparatus 200 is arranged to receive an electromagnetically heated aerosol generating article 100 to generate aerosols in the integral smoke-generating section 150 and the discrete smoke-generating section 110 of the aerosol generating article 100. The aerosol generating apparatus 200 includes a housing, a power supply and control assembly 210, a heating chamber 220 for receiving at least a portion of the aerosol generating article 100, and an induction coil 230 capable of generating electromagnetic fields to heat a sensor 160. In one specific embodiment, the induction coil 230 includes a first induction coil 231 and a second induction coil 232, each controllable by a main control circuit. The first induction coil 231 is coupled to a first sensor section 161, and the second induction coil 232 is coupled to a second sensor section 162, allowing for heating of the integral smoke-generating section 150 and the discrete smoke-generating section 110 with different power levels or temperature profiles. In one specific embodiment, a first heating temperature of 100℃-150℃ can be applied to the overall smoke-generating section 150, and a second heating temperature of 200℃-300℃ can be applied to the discrete smoke-generating section 110. The former temperature can efficiently form aerosols containing fragrance molecules, while the latter temperature can efficiently form aerosols containing nicotine. Depending on different needs, the function of heating the overall smoke-generating section 150 or the discrete smoke-generating section 110 can be selectively turned on or off to obtain different vaping experiences.

[0088] In another specific embodiment, the induction coil 230 is a single coil, and the induction coil 230 is coupled together with the first sensor segment 161 and the second sensor segment 162. However, due to the difference in composition and flowability of the first smoke agent and the second smoke agent, the first heating temperature of the overall smoke-generating segment 150 can still be lower than the second heating temperature of the discrete smoke-generating segment 110.

[0089] In this specification, references to "an embodiment" or "a specific implementation" mean that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment / specific implementation is included in at least one embodiment / specific implementation of the invention. Therefore, the phrase "in one embodiment / specific implementation" appearing in various places in this specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment / setting, but rather to potentially different embodiments. Furthermore, specific features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in one or more embodiments / settings in any suitable manner, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure.

[0090] Similarly, it should be understood that in the above description of exemplary embodiments / specific implementations of the invention, various features of the invention are sometimes combined in a single embodiment / specific implementation or its figures and description, with the aim of simplifying the disclosure and aiding in the understanding of one or more of the various aspects of the invention. However, the method of description in this patent should not be construed as reflecting an intention that the claimed features of the invention are more than those expressly stated in each claim, except where explicitly stated otherwise or in obvious technical contradiction or exclusion. Rather, the inventive aspect reflected in the claims lies in not all the features of a single foregoing disclosed embodiment / specific implementation. Therefore, the claims following the detailed description are expressly incorporated herein by reference, each claim existing independently as a separate embodiment / specific implementation of the invention.

[0091] Furthermore, while some embodiments / specific implementations described herein include, but are not limited to, other features included in other embodiments / specific implementations, combinations of features from different embodiments / specific implementations are intended to be within the scope of the invention and form different embodiments / specific implementations, as will be understood by those skilled in the art. For example, in the following claims, embodiments / specific implementations of any claim can be used in any combination.

[0092] The terms and expressions used in this specification are for illustrative purposes and not for limitation. The use of these terms and expressions is not intended to exclude any equivalents of the features or portions thereof shown and described, but rather to allow for the understanding that various modifications may be made within the scope of the invention.

[0093] Therefore, it should be understood that although the invention has been specifically disclosed through preferred embodiments, exemplary embodiments and optional features, those skilled in the art may take variations or modifications of the concepts disclosed herein, and such variations and modifications are therefore considered to be within the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

[0094] The specific embodiments given in this specification are examples of useful implementations of the present invention. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the present invention can be implemented using many variations of the devices, device components, and method steps disclosed in this specification.

[0095] The foregoing description of specific embodiments fully discloses the general features of the present invention, enabling others to easily modify and / or adapt such specific embodiments for various applications by applying knowledge within the scope of the art, without conducting excessive experimentation and without departing from the general concept of the present invention.

[0096] Therefore, based on the teachings and guidance provided herein, it is intended that such modifications and alterations be included within the meaning and scope of equivalents of the disclosed embodiments. It should be understood that the wording or terminology used herein is for descriptive purposes and is not intended to be limiting; thus, the wording or terminology in this specification will be interpreted by those skilled in the art based on the foregoing teachings and guidance.

[0097] Furthermore, the scope of the invention should not be limited to any of the exemplary embodiments described above, but only to the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. An inductively heatable aerosol-generating article, characterized in that, The aerosol generating article includes an integral smoke-generating section, a discrete smoke-generating section, and a sensor, which are located at the distal end and assembled sequentially, wherein the sensor extends from the interior of the integral smoke-generating section to the interior of the discrete smoke-generating section.

2. An aerosol-generating article according to claim 1, wherein, The overall smoke-generating section is an integral part consisting of a single smoke-generating component, up to three smoke-generating components, or up to six smoke-generating components; the smoke-generating component is a 3D porous material, a 2D material aggregate, or a 1D material aggregate.

3. The aerosol-generating product according to claim 2, characterized in that, in: The 3D porous material includes porous ceramics, porous sponges, porous foam polymers, porous foam metals, or plant-based fasteners. The 2D material aggregate is formed from one or more layers of sheets by winding, folding, compressing, shrinking, wrinkling, or curling; the sheets include paper materials, non-woven fabrics, or polymer films; and the sheets have ventilation holes formed on them. The 1D material aggregate is composed of cellulose acetate fiber, polyester fiber, polyolefin fiber, polyethylene fiber, polyester fiber, polypropylene fiber, nylon fiber, polylactic acid fiber, or plant fiber.

4. The aerosol-generating product according to claim 2, characterized in that, The smoke-generating component is impregnated or sprayed with a first smoke-generating agent.

5. The aerosol-generating product according to claim 2, characterized in that, The smoke-generating component contains microcapsules containing a first smoke-generating agent.

6. The aerosol-generating product according to claim 2, characterized in that, The smoke-generating component contains a gel-state or solid first smoke-generating agent.

7. The aerosol-generating product according to claim 1, characterized in that, The discrete smoke-generating segment comprises 7 or more, 20 or more, or 100 or more discrete smoke-generating units; the smoke-generating units are tobacco particles, tobacco sheets, and / or shredded tobacco.

8. The aerosol-generating product according to claim 1, characterized in that, The integral smoke-generating section has a first smoke-generating agent, which includes nicotine or nicotine salts; the discrete smoke-generating section has a second smoke-generating agent, which does not include nicotine or nicotine salts.

9. The aerosol-generating product according to claim 1, characterized in that, The aerosol generating product further includes a support section, a cooling section, and / or a filter section located near the discrete smoke-generating section and assembled in sequence; the integral smoke-generating section and the discrete smoke-generating section are connected by wrapping with aluminum foil or aluminum foil paper.

10. An induction heating aerosol generation system, comprising an aerosol generation article as described in any one of claims 1 to 9, and further comprising an induction heating aerosol generation device.

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