Air guiding element for an aerosol-generating article

Abstract

This invention relates to an air guiding element (30) for use in aerosol-generating articles. The air guiding element (30) includes an outer tube (22). The air guiding element (30) includes an inner body (24) located within the outer tube (22). The air guiding element (30) includes an inner channel (26) defined within the inner body (24). The inner body (24) includes a central portion (40) and at least two extensions (50) that contact the inner surface of the outer tube (22). Both the central portion (40) of the inner body (24) and the at least two extensions (50) of the inner body (24) define the inner channel (26). Each of the at least two extensions (50) has a substantially constant thickness. The ratio of the thickness of each extension (50) to the width (D) of the central portion (40) is less than or equal to 0.5.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to an air guiding element or cooling element for an aerosol generating article, preferably to an aerosol generating article including such an air guiding element or cooling element, wherein the aerosol generating article is adapted to generate inhalable aerosols upon heating. This disclosure also relates to an aerosol generating system including such an aerosol generating article. Background Technology

[0002] Aerosol-generating articles in which the aerosol-generating matrix (such as tobacco-containing material) is heated rather than burned are known in the art. The purpose of such "heated" aerosol-generating articles is to reduce certain smoke components of the type produced by the combustion and thermal degradation of tobacco in conventional cigarettes.

[0003] Typically, in heated aerosol-generating articles, aerosols are generated by transferring heat from a heat source to a physically separated aerosol-generating matrix. During use, volatile compounds are released from the aerosol-generating matrix via heat transfer from the heat source to the aerosol-generating matrix and are entrained in the air drawn through the aerosol-generating article. As the released compounds cool, they condense to form an aerosol inhaled by the user.

[0004] Many handheld aerosol generating devices configured as aerosol generating substrates for heated aerosol generating articles are known in the art. These devices include electrically operated aerosol generating devices in which aerosols are generated by transferring heat from one or more electrically heated elements of the aerosol generating device to the aerosol generating substrate of the heated aerosol generating article. Known handheld electrically operated aerosol generating devices typically include a battery or other power source, control electronics, and one or more electrically heated elements for heating the aerosol generating substrate of a heated aerosol generating article specifically designed for use with an aerosol generating device.

[0005] Some known electrically operated aerosol generating apparatuses include one or more external heating elements. For example, WO2020 / 115151 A1 discloses an aerosol generating system that includes an aerosol generating article and an electrically operated aerosol generating apparatus, the electrically operated aerosol generating apparatus including external heating elements defining the outer periphery of the aerosol generating article.

[0006] Aerosol-generating products containing tobacco matrix that are heated rather than burned present many challenges not encountered with conventional smoking products. Tobacco matrix products are typically heated to significantly lower temperatures compared to the combustion front in conventional cigarettes. This can affect nicotine release from the tobacco matrix and nicotine delivery to the user. Furthermore, if the heating temperature is increased in an attempt to boost nicotine delivery, the generated aerosol typically needs to cool more extensively and more rapidly before reaching the user.

[0007] When the aforementioned types of aerosol-generating articles are used in particularly hot and humid weather conditions—such as those frequently encountered in countries with tropical climates—aerosol delivery and user experience can be significantly impacted. For example, high humidity levels (e.g., above 90%) can result in a higher concentration of water in the aerosol-generating matrix material. When the matrix is ​​heated, this higher concentration of water, along with the humid air drawn through the article, can potentially lead to a hotter aerosol. Consequently, the temperature at the mouthpiece of the article can be relatively high when the article is heated and inhaled by the user, which may contribute to discomfort for some users as sensitive tissues such as the lips may come into direct contact with the mouthpiece surface during use.

[0008] However, technological solutions commonly used to cool mainstream smoke in conventional smoking products (such as providing a high-efficiency filter element at the mouthpiece of the cigarette) may have undesirable effects in aerosol-generating products where the tobacco matrix is ​​heated rather than burned, as they may reduce nicotine delivery. Therefore, there is a need to provide novel aerosol-generating products that can consistently ensure rapid and satisfactory aerosol delivery to the user.

[0009] Therefore, it is desirable to provide a novel and improved element for aerosol-generating articles, adapted to optimize the cooling of aerosols delivered to the user. It is also desirable to provide a novel and improved element for aerosol-generating articles, adapted to optimize the cooling of the surface of the mouth end of the article, which may come into contact with the user's sensitive tissues during use. Simultaneously, it is desirable to provide such aerosol-generating articles that can be manufactured efficiently and at high speed without requiring significant modifications to existing equipment and apparatus.

[0010] In addition, it is desirable to provide an element of an aerosol generating article that also reduces the risk of excessive migration of material from the aerosol generating matrix upstream or downstream or even away from the aerosol generating article.

[0011] Furthermore, it is desirable to provide an aerosol-generating article that can be manufactured efficiently and at high speed, preferably with satisfactory draw resistance (RTD) and low RTD variability from one article to another, without requiring extensive modifications to existing equipment and processes. It is also desirable to provide an aerosol-generating article for use with an aerosol-generating device, in which the quality and consistency of the aerosol delivered to the user is improved compared to known heated tobacco products. Summary of the Invention

[0012] This disclosure relates to an air guiding element for an aerosol-generating article. The air guiding element may include an outer tube. The air guiding element may include an inner body located within the outer tube. The air guiding element may include an inner channel defined within the inner body. The inner body may include a central portion and at least two extensions that contact the inner surface of the outer tube. Both the central portion of the inner body and the at least two extensions of the inner body may define the inner channel. Each of the at least two extensions may have a substantially constant thickness. The ratio of the thickness of each extension to the width of the central portion may be less than or equal to 0.5.

[0013] This disclosure relates to an air guiding element for an aerosol-generating article, the air guiding element comprising: an outer tube; and an inner body located within the outer tube, wherein the inner body includes a central portion and at least two extensions contacting an inner surface of the outer tube, wherein the central portion of the inner body and the at least two extensions of the inner body both define an inner channel. Each of the at least two extensions may include two substantially parallel extending walls extending from the central portion of the inner body to the outer tube. Each of the at least two extensions may have a substantially constant thickness. The ratio of the thickness of each extension to the width of the central portion may be less than or equal to 0.5.

[0014] This invention relates to an air guiding element for aerosol generation articles. The air guiding element includes an outer tube. The air guiding element includes an inner body located within the outer tube. The air guiding element includes an inner channel defined within the inner body. The inner body includes a central portion and at least two extensions that contact the inner surface of the outer tube. Both the central portion of the inner body and the at least two extensions define the inner channel. Each of the at least two extensions has a substantially constant thickness. The ratio of the thickness of each extension to the width of the central portion is less than or equal to 0.5.

[0015] Providing an inner channel within an inner body, defined within an outer tube of an air guiding element preferably located downstream of the aerosol generating matrix, ensures cooling of the hot aerosols and air flowing downstream from the aerosol generating matrix. The air guiding element can also be positioned upstream of the aerosol generating matrix. This can help reduce the migration and departure of any material from the aerosol generating matrix upstream of it.

[0016] When positioned downstream of the aerosol generating matrix, the air guiding element can be considered a cooling element. Air or aerosol traveling downstream from the aerosol generating matrix can be separated by the inner body, allowing aerosol traveling outside the inner channel to be cooled through heat exchange with the material of the inner body and with the external environment via the walls of the air guiding element. Particularly at the mouth of the article, this peripheral aerosol traveling near the outer surface of the article will affect the external temperature of the article at the mouth. This mouth portion of the article may come into contact with sensitive body parts of the user, such as the lips. The airflow separation achieved by the air guiding element of the present invention ensures that this peripheral aerosol can be adequately cooled to reduce the user's sensation of the periphery of the mouth portion of the article being too hot.

[0017] If the inner body is a separate component from the outer tube, at least two extensions ensure that the inner body remains within the outer body of the air guiding element. The extensions that partially define the inner channel allow aerosols traveling within the inner channel to benefit from a more peripheral location closer to the wall of the outer tube. Therefore, such aerosols can be cooled beyond the central portion of the inner body by heat exchange with the external environment via the walls of the air guiding element (or outer tube) and the inner body.

[0018] Furthermore, heat exchange between aerosols traveling within the inner body and aerosols outside the inner body can occur via extensions. The extensions have a substantially constant thickness, and the ratio of the thickness of each extension to the width of the central portion is less than or equal to 0.5 ensures that this heat exchange can occur more efficiently. This is because each extension can be effectively made substantially planar, while ensuring that an optimal amount of aerosol traveling within the inner body travels within the extensions, allowing heat exchange to occur in a uniform and consistent manner. For example, a larger ratio of the thickness of the extension to the width of the central portion might mean that the heat exchange benefits provided by the extensions are diminished.

[0019] As used herein, the term "aerosol generating article" is used to describe articles comprising an aerosol generating matrix that is heated to generate an inhalable aerosol for delivery to a user.

[0020] As used herein, the term "aerosol generating matrix" is used to describe a matrix containing aerosol generating materials that, when heated, release volatile compounds that can generate aerosols.

[0021] As used herein, the term "aerosol" is used to describe a dispersion of solid particles or droplets, or a combination of solid particles and droplets, in a gas. Aerosols can be visible or invisible. Aerosols can include vapors of substances that are typically liquid or solid at room temperature, as well as solid particles or droplets, or a combination of solid particles and droplets.

[0022] As used herein, the term "aerosol generating apparatus" is used to describe an apparatus that interacts with an aerosol generating matrix of an aerosol generating article to generate aerosols.

[0023] The aerosol generating article has a proximal end through which the aerosol exits the aerosol generating article for delivery to the user during use. The proximal end of the aerosol generating article may also be referred to as the downstream end or mouth end of the aerosol generating article. During use, the user draws air directly or indirectly onto the proximal end of the aerosol generating article to inhale the aerosol generated by the aerosol generating article.

[0024] Aerosol-generating articles have a distal end. The distal end is opposite to the proximal end. The distal end of an aerosol-generating article can also be referred to as the upstream end of the aerosol-generating article.

[0025] Components of an aerosol-generating article can be described as being upstream or downstream of each other based on their relative positions between the proximal and distal ends of the aerosol-generating article.

[0026] As used herein, the term "longitudinal" describes the direction between the upstream and downstream ends of an aerosol-generating article. In use, air is drawn through the aerosol-generating article in the longitudinal direction.

[0027] As used herein, the term "length" is used to describe the maximum dimension of an aerosol-generating article or a component of an aerosol-generating article in the longitudinal direction.

[0028] As used herein, the term "transverse" is used to describe a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. Unless otherwise stated, references to "section" of an aerosol-generating article or a component of an aerosol-generating article refer to a cross-section.

[0029] As used herein, the term "width" describes the maximum dimension in the transverse direction of an aerosol-generating article and its components. When an aerosol-generating article has a substantially circular cross-section, the width of the aerosol-generating article corresponds to the diameter of the aerosol-generating article. When a component of an aerosol-generating article has a substantially circular cross-section, the width of the component of the aerosol-generating article corresponds to the diameter of the component of the aerosol-generating article.

[0030] As used herein, unless otherwise stated, the term "thickness" is used to describe the maximum dimension of an aerosol-generating article or a component of an aerosol-generating article in both the longitudinal and transverse directions.

[0031] As used herein, the term "elongated" is used to describe a part or element whose length is greater than its width and thickness. For example, the length of an elongated part or element may be at least twice its width. An elongated part or element may have a width substantially the same as its thickness. For example, an elongated element may have a substantially square cross-section or a substantially circular cross-section. An elongated part or element may have a width greater than its thickness. For example, an elongated element may have a substantially rectangular cross-section or a substantially elliptical or oval cross-section.

[0032] As used in this article for the aerosol generation matrix, the term "strand" describes an elongated element of the aerosol generation material whose length is significantly greater than its width and thickness.

[0033] As used herein with respect to aerosol generating matrix, the term "density" refers to the bulk density of the aerosol generating matrix in an aerosol generating article. The density of the aerosol generating matrix is ​​calculated by dividing the mass of the aerosol generating matrix in the aerosol generating article by the volume occupied by the aerosol generating matrix in the aerosol generating article. For example, in the case where the aerosol generating matrix of the aerosol generating article is substantially cylindrical and includes the mass of the aerosol generating matrix material defined by the packaging, the density of the aerosol generating matrix is ​​equal to the mass of the aerosol generating matrix divided by the cylindrical volume defined by the packaging.

[0034] As used herein, the term "receptor element" is used to describe an element comprising a receptor material capable of converting electromagnetic energy into heat. When located within an alternating or fluctuating electromagnetic field, at least one of hysteresis loss and eddy current induced in the receptor element causes heating of the receptor element.

[0035] As used herein, the term "nicotine" is used to describe nicotine, nicotine base, or nicotine salt. In embodiments in which the aerosol generating matrix comprises nicotine base or nicotine salt, the amount of nicotine described herein is either the amount of free base nicotine or the amount of protonated nicotine.

[0036] As used in this article, the term "tobacco shred filler" is used to describe an aerosol-generating matrix comprising multiple strands of tobacco leaves.

[0037] As used herein, the term "homogenized plant material" is used to describe materials formed by agglomerating granular plant material. Homogeneous plant material can be formed by agglomerating particles of plant material obtained from crushed, ground, or pulverized plant material. Homogeneous plant material can be produced by casting, extrusion, papermaking processes, or other suitable processes known in the art.

[0038] As used in this article, the term "homogenized tobacco material" is used to describe materials formed by agglomerating particulate tobacco material.

[0039] As used herein, the term "gel" is used to describe substantially diluted cross-linked materials that do not exhibit flow in a steady state.

[0040] As used herein, the term "hollow tubular element" or "tube" describes a generally cylindrical element having a lumen along its longitudinal axis. The hollow tubular element or tube may have a substantially circular, oval, or elliptical cross-section. The lumen may have a substantially circular, oval, or elliptical cross-section. Specifically, the term "hollow tubular element" or "tube" describes an element defining at least one airflow conduit that establishes uninterrupted fluid communication between an upstream end and a downstream end of the hollow tubular element.

[0041] In the context of this disclosure, hollow tubular elements or tubes provide an unrestricted flow path. This means that hollow tubular elements or tubes provide a negligible level of suction resistance (RTD). As used herein, the term "negligible level of RTD" is used to describe the RTD of hollow tubular elements or tubes with a length less than 1 mmH2O / 10 mm, less than 0.4 mmH2O / 10 mm, or less than 0.1 mmH2O / 10 mm. Therefore, the flow path should not contain any components that would impede the flow of air in the longitudinal direction. The flow path can be substantially empty.

[0042] As used herein, the term "ventilation level" refers to the volume ratio between the airflow permitted to enter the aerosol generating article via a ventilated area (ventilation airflow) and the airflow exiting the aerosol generating article via an inlet or downstream end. A higher ventilation airflow results in a higher dilution of the aerosol stream delivered to the user. Increasing the ventilation level can increase the cooling level of the aerosol stream before delivery to the user. The ventilation level is measured on the aerosol generating article itself, i.e., without inserting the aerosol generating article into a suitable aerosol generating apparatus for heating the aerosol generating matrix.

[0043] Unless otherwise stated, the weight percentages of the components of the aerosol generating matrix described herein are based on the dry weight of the aerosol generating matrix.

[0044] Unless otherwise stated, the weight percentages of the components of the aerosol-generating materials described herein are based on the dry weight of the aerosol-generating materials.

[0045] Unless otherwise stated, the suction resistance (RTD) of an aerosol-generating article or a component thereof is measured at a volumetric flow rate of 17.5 mL / s at the proximal end of the aerosol-generating article or a component thereof, in accordance with ISO 6565-2015 at a temperature of 22°C, a pressure of 101 kPa (760 Torr) and a relative humidity of 60%.

[0046] The air guiding element may include one or more peripheral channels located between the outer tube and the inner body. These peripheral channels can reduce the cross-sectional area of ​​the empty space within the air guiding element, into which aerosol-generating materials in the aerosol-generating matrix may migrate.

[0047] When the air guiding element is located downstream of the aerosol generating matrix, the aerosol generated by the aerosol generating matrix can flow through one or more peripheral channels and inner channels during use of the aerosol generating article. This separation of the aerosol downstream of the aerosol generating matrix helps prevent the user from experiencing an uncomfortable warm sensation on their lips during use of the aerosol generating article. Due to its proximity to the one or more peripheral channels and the external environment, the aerosol flowing through the one or more peripheral channels can be cooled by conduction. As further discussed below, the aerosol generating article may include a ventilation zone that provides fluid communication between the exterior of the aerosol generating article and the one or more peripheral channels. This can help to further cool the aerosol flowing through the one or more peripheral channels.

[0048] Each of the one or more peripheral channels may be defined by an outer tube and an inner body. In particular, each of the one or more peripheral channels may be defined by the inner surface of the outer tube and the outer surface of the inner body.

[0049] Each of one or more peripheral channels may extend substantially along the entire length of the inner body.

[0050] The length of each of the one or more peripheral channels may be substantially the same as the length of the inner body.

[0051] One or more peripheral passages can essentially surround the inner passage.

[0052] Aerosol-generated products may include multiple peripheral channels.

[0053] Each peripheral channel may have a cross-sectional area substantially the same as that of another peripheral channel. Multiple peripheral channels may be spaced substantially equidistant from the inner channel.

[0054] Aerosol-generating articles may include up to six, up to five, up to four, or up to three peripheral channels. Aerosol-generating articles may have only two, three, four, five, or six peripheral channels.

[0055] At least one of the one or more peripheral channels may be substantially empty. Each of the one or more peripheral channels may be substantially empty.

[0056] At least one of the one or more peripheral channels may be at least partially filled. For example, the air guiding element may include a porous body located in at least one of the one or more peripheral channels. As another example, the air guiding element may include a polylactic acid (PLA) membrane located in at least one of the one or more peripheral channels. This can improve the cooling of aerosol flowing through at least one of the one or more peripheral channels.

[0057] The length of the inner body can be at least 20%, at least 25%, or at least 30% of the length of the air guiding element.

[0058] The length of the inner body can be less than or equal to 80%, less than or equal to 70%, or less than or equal to 60% of the length of the air guiding element.

[0059] The length of the inner body can be between 20% and 80%, 20% and 70%, or 20% and 60% of the length of the air guiding element.

[0060] The length of the inner body can be between 25% and 80%, 25% and 70%, or 25% and 60% of the length of the air guiding element.

[0061] The length of the inner body can be between 30% and 80%, 30% and 70%, or 30% and 60% of the length of the air guiding element.

[0062] The length of the inner body can be selected based on the desired degree of cooling of the aerosol generated by the aerosol generating matrix. In particular, the length of the inner body can be selected based on the desired degree of cooling of the aerosol near the periphery of the air guiding element.

[0063] Increasing the length of the inner body may mean that aerosol flow passes through a longer inner channel with a reduced cross-sectional area. This could increase the cooling of aerosols generated by the aerosol generation matrix.

[0064] In the case where the aerosol-generating article includes one or more peripheral channels, increasing the length of the inner body increases the length through which the aerosol generated by the aerosol-generating matrix is ​​separated into the one or more peripheral channels and the inner channel. This can increase the cooling of the aerosol generated by the aerosol-generating matrix. In particular, this can increase the cooling of the aerosol near the periphery of the air guiding element. This may be particularly desirable when the aerosol-generating matrix is ​​configured to be heated from the outside.

[0065] The inner body may have a length of at least 4 mm, at least 6 mm, or at least 8 mm.

[0066] The inner body may have a length of less than or equal to 18 mm, less than or equal to 16 mm, or less than or equal to 14 mm.

[0067] The inner body may have a length between 4 mm and 18 mm, between 4 mm and 16 mm, or between 4 mm and 14 mm.

[0068] The inner body may have a length between 6 mm and 18 mm, between 6 mm and 16 mm, or between 6 mm and 14 mm.

[0069] The inner body may have a length between 8 mm and 18 mm, between 8 mm and 16 mm, or between 8 mm and 14 mm.

[0070] The length of the inner body can define the length of the inner channel. The inner channel can extend along substantially the entire length of the inner body. The inner channel can extend from the upstream end of the inner body to the downstream end of the inner body. The inner channel can have substantially the same length as the inner body.

[0071] The length of the inner channel can be at least 20%, at least 25%, or at least 30% of the length of the air guiding element.

[0072] The length of the inner channel can be less than or equal to 80%, less than or equal to 70%, or less than or equal to 60% of the length of the cooling element.

[0073] The length of the inner channel can be between 20% and 80%, 20% and 70%, or 20% and 60% of the length of the air guide element.

[0074] The length of the inner channel can be between 25% and 80%, 25% and 70%, or 25% and 60% of the length of the air guide element.

[0075] The length of the inner channel can be between 30% and 80%, 30% and 70%, or 30% and 60% of the length of the cooling element.

[0076] The length of the inner channel can be selected based on the desired degree of cooling of the aerosol generated by the aerosol generating matrix. In particular, the length of the inner channel can be selected based on the desired degree of cooling of the aerosol near the periphery of the air guiding element.

[0077] Increasing the length of the internal channels can mean that aerosols flow through channels with a reduced cross-sectional area for a longer period. This can increase the cooling of aerosols generated by the aerosol generation matrix.

[0078] In the case where the aerosol-generating article includes one or more peripheral channels, increasing the length of the inner channel increases the length through which the aerosol generated by the aerosol-generating matrix is ​​separated into the one or more peripheral channels and the inner channel. This can increase the cooling of the aerosol generated by the aerosol-generating matrix. In particular, this can increase the cooling of the aerosol near the periphery of the air guiding element. This may be particularly desirable when the aerosol-generating matrix is ​​configured to be heated from the outside.

[0079] The inner channel may have a length of at least 4 mm, at least 6 mm, or at least 8 mm.

[0080] The inner channel may have a length of less than or equal to 18 mm, less than or equal to 16 mm, or less than or equal to 14 mm.

[0081] The inner channel may have a length between 4 mm and 18 mm, between 4 mm and 16 mm, or between 4 mm and 14 mm.

[0082] The inner channel may have a length between 6 mm and 18 mm, between 6 mm and 16 mm, or between 6 mm and 14 mm.

[0083] The inner channel may have a length between 8 mm and 18 mm, between 8 mm and 16 mm, or between 8 mm and 14 mm.

[0084] The upstream end of the inner body can be positioned away from the upstream end of the air guide element. In other words, the upstream end of the inner body may not be aligned with the upstream end of the air guide element, and there is a longitudinal displacement between the upstream end of the inner body and the upstream end of the air guide element.

[0085] The upstream end of the inner body can be positioned at a distance from the upstream end of the air guide element that is at least 20%, at least 30%, or at least 40% of the length of the air guide element.

[0086] The upstream end of the inner body can be positioned such that the distance from the upstream end of the air guide element is less than or equal to 80%, less than or equal to 75%, or less than or equal to 70% of the length of the air guide element.

[0087] The upstream end of the inner body can be positioned at a distance from the upstream end of the air guide element that is 20% to 80%, 20% to 75%, or 20% to 70% of the length of the air guide element.

[0088] The upstream end of the inner body can be positioned at a distance from the upstream end of the air guide element that is 30% to 80%, 30% to 75%, or 30% to 70% of the length of the air guide element.

[0089] The upstream end of the inner body can be positioned at a distance from the upstream end of the air guide element that is 40% to 80%, 40% to 75%, or 40% to 70% of the length of the air guide element.

[0090] The longitudinal displacement between the upstream end of the inner body and the upstream end of the air guide element can be selected based on the desired temperature profile of the aerosol that crosses and leaves the air guide element.

[0091] When the aerosol-generating matrix is ​​configured to be heated externally, it may be desirable to increase the longitudinal displacement between the upstream end of the inner body and the upstream end of the air guiding element. Increasing this longitudinal displacement allows for greater mixing of the aerosol in the air guiding element upstream of the inner body and results in a more uniform temperature profile of the aerosol across the air guiding element. This helps prevent users from experiencing an uncomfortable warm sensation on their lips during use of aerosol-generating articles.

[0092] When the aerosol generating matrix is ​​configured to be heated from the inside, it may be desirable to limit the longitudinal displacement between the upstream end of the inner body and the upstream end of the air guiding element. In an aerosol generating article having such an aerosol generating matrix, the aerosol in the air guiding element towards the periphery of the air guiding element may be cooler than the aerosol in the air guiding element towards the center or longitudinal axis of the air guiding element. Maintaining such a temperature profile for the aerosol across the air guiding element may be advantageous to help avoid an uncomfortable warm sensation experienced by the user on their lips during use of the aerosol generating article.

[0093] The upstream end of the inner body can be positioned at a distance of at least 4 mm, at least 6 mm, or at least 8 mm from the upstream end of the air guiding element.

[0094] The upstream end of the inner body can be positioned at a distance from the upstream end of the air guiding element that is less than or equal to 18 mm, less than or equal to 16 mm, or less than or equal to 14 mm.

[0095] The upstream end of the inner body can be positioned at a distance of 4 mm to 18 mm, 4 mm to 16 mm, or 4 mm to 14 mm from the upstream end of the air guiding element.

[0096] The upstream end of the inner body can be positioned at a distance of 6 mm to 18 mm, 6 mm to 16 mm, or 6 mm to 14 mm from the upstream end of the air guiding element.

[0097] The upstream end of the inner body can be positioned at a distance of 8 mm to 18 mm, 8 mm to 16 mm, or 8 mm to 14 mm from the upstream end of the air guiding element.

[0098] The inner tube can be shorter than the outer tube.

[0099] The upstream end of the inner body can be positioned as the upstream end away from the outer tube.

[0100] The upstream end of the inner body can be positioned at a distance from the upstream end of the outer tube that is at least 20%, at least 30%, or at least 40% of the length of the air guiding element.

[0101] The upstream end of the inner body can be positioned such that the distance from the upstream end of the outer tube is less than or equal to 80%, less than or equal to 75%, or less than or equal to 70% of the length of the air guiding element.

[0102] The upstream end of the inner body can be positioned at a distance from the upstream end of the outer tube that is 20% to 80%, 20% to 75%, or 20% to 70% of the length of the air guiding element.

[0103] The upstream end of the inner body can be positioned at a distance from the upstream end of the outer tube that is 30% to 80%, 30% to 75%, or 30% to 70% of the length of the air guiding element.

[0104] The upstream end of the inner body can be positioned at a distance from the upstream end of the outer tube that is 40% to 80%, 40% to 75%, or 40% to 70% of the length of the air guiding element.

[0105] The longitudinal displacement between the upstream end of the inner body and the upstream end of the outer tube can be selected based on the desired temperature profile of the aerosol that crosses and leaves the air guide element.

[0106] The upstream end of the inner body can be positioned at a distance of at least 4 mm, at least 6 mm, or at least 8 mm from the upstream end of the outer tube.

[0107] The upstream end of the inner body can be positioned at a distance from the upstream end of the outer tube that is less than or equal to 18 mm, less than or equal to 16 mm, or less than or equal to 14 mm.

[0108] The upstream end of the inner body can be positioned at a distance of 4 mm to 18 mm, 4 mm to 16 mm, or 4 mm to 14 mm from the upstream end of the outer tube.

[0109] The upstream end of the inner body can be positioned at a distance of 6 mm to 18 mm, 6 mm to 16 mm, or 6 mm to 14 mm from the upstream end of the outer tube.

[0110] The upstream end of the inner body can be positioned at a distance of 8 mm to 18 mm, 8 mm to 16 mm, or 8 mm to 14 mm from the upstream end of the outer tube.

[0111] The upstream end of the internal body can be positioned at the downstream end, away from the aerosol-generating matrix.

[0112] The upstream end of the inner body can be positioned at a distance from the downstream end of the aerosol generating matrix that is at least 20%, at least 30%, or at least 40% of the length of the air guiding element.

[0113] The upstream end of the inner body can be positioned at a distance from the downstream end of the aerosol generating matrix that is less than or equal to 80%, less than or equal to 75%, or less than or equal to 70% of the length of the air guiding element.

[0114] The upstream end of the inner body can be positioned at a distance from the downstream end of the aerosol generating matrix that is 20% to 80%, 20% to 75%, or 20% to 70% of the length of the air guiding element.

[0115] The upstream end of the inner body can be positioned at a distance from the downstream end of the aerosol generating matrix that is 30% to 80%, 30% to 75%, or 30% to 70% of the length of the air guiding element.

[0116] The upstream end of the inner body can be positioned at a distance from the downstream end of the aerosol generating matrix that is 40% to 80%, 40% to 75%, or 40% to 70% of the length of the air guiding element.

[0117] The longitudinal displacement between the upstream end of the inner body and the downstream end of the aerosol generation matrix can be selected based on the desired temperature profile of the aerosol that crosses and leaves the air guiding element.

[0118] The upstream end of the inner body can be positioned at a distance of at least 4 mm, at least 6 mm, or at least 8 mm from the downstream end of the aerosol-generating matrix.

[0119] The upstream end of the inner body can be positioned at a distance of less than or equal to 18 mm, less than or equal to 16 mm, or less than or equal to 14 mm from the downstream end of the aerosol generating matrix.

[0120] The upstream end of the inner body can be positioned at a distance of 4 mm to 18 mm, 4 mm to 16 mm, or 4 mm to 14 mm from the downstream end of the aerosol-generating matrix.

[0121] The upstream end of the inner body can be positioned at a distance of 6 mm to 18 mm, 6 mm to 16 mm, or 6 mm to 14 mm from the downstream end of the aerosol-generating matrix.

[0122] The upstream end of the inner body can be positioned at a distance of 8 mm to 18 mm, 8 mm to 16 mm, or 8 mm to 14 mm from the downstream end of the aerosol-generating matrix.

[0123] An air guiding element may include a cavity defined by the inner surface of an outer tube. This cavity is empty.

[0124] The air guiding element may include a cavity extending from an upstream end of the air guiding element toward a downstream end of the air guiding element. The air guiding element may include a cavity extending from an upstream end of the air guiding element toward an upstream end of the inner body. The air guiding element may include a cavity extending from an upstream end of the inner body toward an upstream end of the air guiding element. The air guiding element may include a cavity extending from an upstream end of the air guiding element to an upstream end of the inner body.

[0125] Aerosol generating articles may include a cavity located between an aerosol generating matrix and an inner body of an air guiding element. The cavity may be defined by a downstream end of the aerosol generating matrix and an upstream end of the inner body.

[0126] The air guiding element may have a length of at least 8 mm, at least 12 mm, or at least 15 mm.

[0127] Air guide elements may have a length of less than or equal to 28 mm, less than or equal to 25 mm, or less than or equal to 22 mm.

[0128] The air guiding element may have a length between 8 mm and 28 mm, between 8 mm and 25 mm, or between 8 mm and 22 mm.

[0129] Air guide elements may have lengths between 12 mm and 28 mm, between 12 mm and 25 mm, or between 12 mm and 22 mm.

[0130] The air guiding element may have a length between 15 mm and 28 mm, between 15 mm and 25 mm, or between 15 mm and 22 mm.

[0131] The length of the outer tube can define the length of the air guide element. The length of the outer tube can be substantially the same as the length of the air guide element. The outer tube can extend along substantially the entire length of the air guide element. In other words, the outer tube can extend from the upstream end of the air guide element to the downstream end of the air guide element.

[0132] The outer tube may have a length of at least 8 mm, at least 12 mm, or at least 15 mm.

[0133] The outer tube may have a length of less than or equal to 28 mm, less than or equal to 25 mm, or less than or equal to 22 mm.

[0134] The outer tube may have a length between 8 mm and 28 mm, between 8 mm and 25 mm, or between 8 mm and 22 mm.

[0135] The outer tube may have a length between 12 mm and 28 mm, between 12 mm and 25 mm, or between 12 mm and 22 mm.

[0136] The outer tube may have a length between 15 mm and 28 mm, between 15 mm and 25 mm, or between 15 mm and 22 mm.

[0137] Air guiding elements may include a single internal channel.

[0138] In the same transverse plane, the inner channel may have a cross-sectional area of ​​at least 15%, at least 20%, or at least 25% of the cross-sectional area of ​​the air guiding element.

[0139] In the same transverse plane, the inner channel may have a cross-sectional area of ​​less than or equal to 40%, less than or equal to 35%, or less than or equal to 30% of the cross-sectional area of ​​the air guiding element.

[0140] Reducing the cross-sectional area of ​​the inner channel can increase the cooling of aerosols generated by the aerosol generation matrix. In particular, reducing the cross-sectional area of ​​the inner channel can increase the cooling of aerosols generated by the aerosol generation matrix that pass through the inner channel.

[0141] Reducing the cross-sectional area of ​​the inner channels can increase the volume of aerosols generated by the aerosol generation matrix that pass through one or more peripheral channels (where present). This can further increase the cooling of the aerosols generated by the aerosol generation matrix.

[0142] In the same transverse plane, the inner channel may have a cross-sectional area between 15% and 40%, between 15% and 35%, or between 15% and 30% of the cross-sectional area of ​​the air guiding element.

[0143] In the same transverse plane, the inner channel may have a cross-sectional area between 20% and 40%, between 20% and 35%, or between 20% and 30% of the cross-sectional area of ​​the air guiding element.

[0144] In the same transverse plane, the inner channel may have a cross-sectional area between 25% and 40%, between 25% and 35%, or between 25% and 30% of the cross-sectional area of ​​the air guiding element.

[0145] The cross-sectional area of ​​the inner channel mentioned in this article refers to the cross-sectional area of ​​the inner channel at its downstream end. The cross-sectional area of ​​the inner channel mentioned in this article refers to the cross-sectional area of ​​the inner channel at its downstream end within the inner body.

[0146] The inner channel may have a cross-sectional area of ​​at least 6 square millimeters, at least 8 square millimeters, or at least 10 square millimeters.

[0147] The inner channel may have a cross-sectional area of ​​less than or equal to 16 square millimeters, less than or equal to 14 square millimeters, or less than or equal to 12 square millimeters.

[0148] The inner channel may have a cross-sectional area between 6 mm² and 16 mm², between 6 mm² and 14 mm², or between 6 mm² and 12 mm².

[0149] The inner channel may have a cross-sectional area between 8 mm² and 16 mm², between 8 mm² and 14 mm², or between 8 mm² and 12 mm².

[0150] The inner channel may have a cross-sectional area between 10 and 16 square millimeters, between 10 and 14 square millimeters, or between 10 and 12 square millimeters.

[0151] The width of the inner channel can be at least 30%, at least 40%, or at least 50% of the width of the air guiding element.

[0152] The width of the inner channel can be substantially the same as the width of the air guide element. For example, in the case where the air guide element is substantially cylindrical, the inner channel can extend substantially across the diameter of the air guide element.

[0153] The width of the inner channel can be up to 90%, up to 80%, or up to 70% of the width of the air guide element.

[0154] The width of the inner channel can be between 30% and 90%, 30% and 80%, or 30% and 70% of the width of the air guide element.

[0155] The width of the inner channel can be between 40% and 90%, 40% and 80%, or 40% and 70% of the width of the air guide element.

[0156] The width of the inner channel can be between 50% and 90%, 50% and 80%, or 50% and 70% of the width of the air guiding element.

[0157] The inner channel may have a width of at least 2 mm, at least 3 mm, or at least 4 mm.

[0158] The inner channel may have a width of less than or equal to 7 mm, less than or equal to 6 mm, or less than or equal to 5 mm.

[0159] The inner channel may have a width between 2 mm and 7 mm, between 2 mm and 6 mm, or between 2 mm and 5 mm.

[0160] The inner channel may have a width between 3 mm and 7 mm, between 3 mm and 6 mm, or between 3 mm and 5 mm.

[0161] The inner channel may have a width between 4 mm and 7 mm, between 4 mm and 6 mm, or between 4 mm and 5 mm.

[0162] The width of the air guiding element can be substantially the same as the width of the aerosol-generated product.

[0163] The air guide element may have a width of at least 5 mm, at least 6 mm, or at least 7 mm. The air guide element may also have a width of less than or equal to 12 mm, less than or equal to 10 mm, or less than or equal to 8 mm. For example, the air guide element may have a width of 7.1 mm.

[0164] When the air guide element has a substantially circular cross-section, the width of the air guide element corresponds to the diameter of the air guide element.

[0165] The width of the outer tube can be substantially the same as the width of the air guiding element. The width of the outer tube can also be substantially the same as the width of the aerosol-generating product.

[0166] The outer tube may have a width of at least 5 mm, at least 6 mm, or at least 7 mm. The outer tube may also have a width of less than or equal to 12 mm, less than or equal to 10 mm, or less than or equal to 8 mm. For example, the outer tube may have a width of 7.1 mm.

[0167] When the outer tube has a substantially circular cross-section, the width of the air guiding element corresponds to the diameter of the outer tube.

[0168] The aerosol generating article may include one or more ventilation zones located downstream of the aerosol generating matrix. Air drawn into the aerosol generating article through the ventilation zones helps to cool the aerosol stream generated by the aerosol generating matrix before delivery to the user.

[0169] The aerosol generating article may include one or more ventilation zones configured to establish fluid communication between the exterior of the aerosol generating article and the interior of an air guiding element. The aerosol generating article may include one or more ventilation zones located along the air guiding element. The aerosol generating article may also include a single ventilation zone located along the air guiding element.

[0170] An aerosol generating article may include one or more ventilation zones configured to establish fluid communication between the exterior of the aerosol generating article and the interior of an outer tube. An aerosol generating article may include one or more ventilation zones located along the outer tube. An aerosol generating article may include a single ventilation zone located along the outer tube.

[0171] The ventilation zone may include one or more rows of orifices or perforations extending through the outer tube. The ventilation zone may include one or more rows of orifices or perforations extending through the packaging of the aerosol-generating article. The ventilation zone may include one or more rows of orifices or perforations extending through both the packaging of the aerosol-generating article and the outer tube.

[0172] A ventilation zone may include a single row of openings or perforations. A row of openings or perforations may include between 8 and 30 openings or perforations.

[0173] Each orifice or perforation may have an opening area of ​​at least 0.01 square millimeters. Each orifice or perforation may have an opening area of ​​less than or equal to 1 square millimeter.

[0174] Each opening or perforation may have a maximum size of at least 0.1 mm. Each opening or perforation may have a maximum size of less than or equal to 1 mm.

[0175] The ventilation zone can extend laterally around the aerosol-generated product. Such a ventilation zone can be called a transverse ventilation zone.

[0176] A ventilation zone can define an aerosol-generating article. For example, a ventilation zone can define an air guiding element or an outer tube of an air guiding element. A ventilation zone may include one or more rows of circumferential orifices or perforations.

[0177] The aerosol generating article may include a ventilation zone located along the outer duct and downstream of the upstream end of the inner body. When the air guiding element includes one or more peripheral channels, the ventilation zone may be configured to establish fluid communication between the exterior of the aerosol generating article and the one or more peripheral channels.

[0178] Because the volume of aerosol passing through one or more peripheral channels is smaller compared to the volume of aerosol generated by the aerosol generating matrix, the aerosol in the one or more peripheral channels can be effectively cooled in the ventilation zone located along the outer tube and downstream of the upstream end of the inner body. This helps to avoid an uncomfortable warm sensation experienced by the user on their lips during use of aerosol-generated articles.

[0179] The ventilation zone may be located downstream of the upstream end of the inner body, and its distance from the upstream end of the inner body is less than or equal to 50% of the length of the inner body. In other words, the ventilation zone may be located downstream of the upstream end of the inner body, and its distance from the upstream end of the inner body is less than or equal to 50% of the length of the inner body. For example, the ventilation zone may be located downstream of the upstream end of the inner body, and closer to the upstream end of the inner body than to the downstream end of the inner body.

[0180] The ventilation zone can be located downstream of the upstream end of the inner body, and its distance from the upstream end of the inner body is less than or equal to 40% or less than or equal to 30% of the length of the inner body.

[0181] The ventilation zone may be located downstream of the upstream end of the inner body, and its distance from the upstream end of the inner body shall be at least 10% of the length of the inner body.

[0182] The ventilation zone can be located downstream of the upstream end of the inner body, and its distance from the upstream end of the inner body is 10% to 50%, 10% to 40%, or 10% to 30% of the length of the inner body.

[0183] Positioning the ventilation zone upstream of the inner body, closer to the downstream end, helps to effectively cool the aerosol in one or more peripheral channels along most of the peripheral channel length. This helps to prevent users from experiencing an uncomfortable warm sensation on their lips during use of aerosol-generating articles.

[0184] Cooling aerosols along most of the length of the peripheral channel can help cool aerosols in the corresponding length of the inner channel by conduction.

[0185] Positioning the ventilation zone upstream of the inner body, closer to the downstream end, can help prevent the ventilation zone from being blocked by the user's lips.

[0186] The ventilation zone can be located downstream of the upstream end of the inner body, and its distance from the upstream end of the inner body is less than or equal to 4 mm, less than or equal to 3 mm, or less than or equal to 2 mm.

[0187] The ventilation zone may be located downstream of the upstream end of the inner body, at least 1 mm away from the upstream end of the inner body.

[0188] The ventilation zone can be located downstream of the upstream end of the inner body, and is 1 mm to 4 mm, 1 mm to 3 mm or 1 mm to 2 mm away from the upstream end of the inner body.

[0189] The aerosol generating article may include a ventilation zone positioned along an outer tube and located upstream of the upstream end of the inner body. In cases where the aerosol generating article includes a cavity between the inner body of the aerosol generating matrix and the air guiding element, the ventilation zone may be configured to establish fluid communication between the exterior of the aerosol generating article and the cavity.

[0190] A ventilation zone positioned along the outer tube and upstream of the inner body provides cooling and dilution to the aerosol generated by the aerosol generating matrix before the inner body performs any separation of the aerosol. Therefore, such a ventilation zone can provide cooling and dilution to the aerosol passing over the air guiding element.

[0191] When the aerosol-generating matrix is ​​configured to be heated from the inside, air entering the outer tube through a ventilation zone positioned along the outer tube and upstream of the inner body guides the hotter aerosol in the central region of the outer tube through the inner channel. This helps to prevent users from experiencing an uncomfortable warm sensation on their lips during use of aerosol-generating articles.

[0192] The aerosol-generating article may include both a ventilation zone positioned along the outer pipe and downstream of the upstream end of the inner body, and a ventilation zone positioned along the outer pipe and upstream of the upstream end of the inner body. In this case, the ventilation zone positioned along the outer pipe and downstream of the upstream end of the inner body may be referred to as the first ventilation zone or the downstream ventilation zone, while the ventilation zone positioned along the outer pipe and upstream of the upstream end of the inner body may be referred to as the second ventilation zone or the upstream ventilation zone.

[0193] The ventilation level in the second ventilation zone can be higher than that in the first ventilation zone. This helps to reduce the average temperature of the aerosol delivered to the user across the aerosol-generated article to an acceptable level, while minimizing any variations in the aerosol temperature across the aerosol-generated article.

[0194] The ventilation level of the second ventilation zone can be at least 1.2 times, at least 1.5 times, or at least 2 times that of the first ventilation zone.

[0195] The ventilation level of the second ventilation zone can be less than or equal to three times that of the first ventilation zone.

[0196] The ventilation level of the second ventilation zone can be between 1.2 and 3 times, 1.5 and 3 times, or 2 and 3 times that of the first ventilation zone.

[0197] The ventilation level of the first ventilation zone can be measured by blocking all other ventilation zones (if any) and drawing air from the opening of the aerosol generating article, allowing air to flow into the aerosol generating article through the front or upstream end of the aerosol generating article and the first ventilation zone. When measured in this manner, the ventilation level provided by the first ventilation level can be defined as the volume ratio between the airflow entering the aerosol generating article through the first ventilation zone and the airflow leaving the aerosol generating article at the opening.

[0198] The ventilation level of the second ventilation zone can be measured by blocking all other ventilation zones (if any) and drawing air from the opening of the aerosol generating article, allowing air to flow into the aerosol generating article through the front or upstream end of the aerosol generating article and the second ventilation zone. When measured in this manner, the ventilation level provided by the second ventilation level can be defined as the volume ratio between the airflow entering the aerosol generating article through the second ventilation zone and the airflow leaving the aerosol generating article at the opening.

[0199] The first ventilation zone may have a ventilation level of at least 10%. The first ventilation zone may have a ventilation level of less than or equal to 25%, less than or equal to 20%, or less than or equal to 15%.

[0200] The second ventilation zone may have a ventilation level of at least 25%, at least 30%, or at least 35%. The second ventilation zone may have a ventilation level of less than or equal to 40%.

[0201] The suction resistance through the first ventilation zone can be greater than that through the second ventilation zone. Therefore, during the use of aerosol-generating products, more air can be drawn through the second ventilation zone than through the first ventilation zone.

[0202] When both the first ventilation zone and the second ventilation zone include multiple orifices, the total opening area of ​​the multiple orifices in the second ventilation zone can be greater than the total opening area of ​​the multiple orifices in the first ventilation zone.

[0203] The total opening area of ​​the multiple orifices in the second ventilation zone can be at least 1.2 times, at least 1.5 times, or at least 2 times the total opening area of ​​the multiple orifices in the first ventilation zone.

[0204] The total opening area of ​​the multiple orifices in the second ventilation zone can be less than or equal to three times the total opening area of ​​the multiple orifices in the first ventilation zone.

[0205] The total opening area of ​​the multiple orifices in the second ventilation zone can be between 1.2 and 3 times, 1.5 and 3 times, or 2 and 3 times the total opening area of ​​the multiple orifices in the first ventilation zone.

[0206] Aerosol-generating articles may have a total ventilation level of at least 10%, at least 20%, or at least 30%.

[0207] Aerosol-generating products may have a ventilation level of less than or equal to 60%, less than or equal to 50%, or less than or equal to 40%.

[0208] Aerosol-generating products may have ventilation levels between 10% and 60%, between 10% and 50%, or between 10% and 40%.

[0209] Aerosol-generating products may have ventilation levels between 20% and 60%, between 20% and 50%, or between 20% and 40%.

[0210] Aerosol-generating products may have ventilation levels between 30% and 60%, between 30% and 50%, or between 30% and 40%.

[0211] The total ventilation level of an aerosol generating article can be measured by not blocking any ventilation zones present in the aerosol generating article and drawing air from the outlet of the aerosol generating article, allowing air to flow into the aerosol generating article through the front or upstream end of the aerosol generating article and the ventilation zones. The total ventilation level of the aerosol generating article can be defined as the volume ratio between the sum of the airflow entering the aerosol generating article through each ventilation zone and the airflow leaving the aerosol generating article at the outlet.

[0212] The air guiding element can be configured such that virtually all air entering the inner channel during the use of the aerosol-generating article passes through the upstream end of the inner channel. In other words, the inner channel can be unventilated.

[0213] Aerosol-generating articles may include a ventilation zone configured to allow ventilation of one or more peripheral passages (if present), but not of the inner passages.

[0214] The ventilation zone may not extend through the inner body of the air guiding element. In particular, the multiple orifices or perforations of the ventilation zone may not extend through the inner body of the air guiding element. The inner body may not include orifices or perforations extending through the sidewalls of the inner body.

[0215] The air guiding element can be configured to establish fluid communication between its inner channel and one or more peripheral channels. The air guiding element can be configured such that, during use of the aerosol-generating article, aerosols can be drawn from the one or more peripheral channels into the inner channel. This can help enhance the nucleation of aerosol particles in the inner channel and cool the aerosols within the inner channel.

[0216] Aerosol-generating articles may include multiple orifices or perforations through the wall of the inner body to establish fluid communication between the inner channel of the air guiding element and one or more peripheral channels. For example, aerosol-generating articles may include multiple orifices or perforations through the wall of the central portion of the inner body. The ventilation zone may extend longitudinally along the inner body.

[0217] The inner channel can have any suitable cross-sectional shape. For example, the inner channel can have a substantially circular, triangular, rectangular, or hexagonal cross-sectional shape. As another example, the inner channel can have an irregular cross-sectional shape.

[0218] The inner channel can have a substantially constant cross-sectional shape and size along its entire length.

[0219] The inner channel can be basically cylindrical.

[0220] The central or longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating article can pass through the internal channel. This helps to separate the higher-temperature portion of the aerosol from the lower-temperature portion downstream of the aerosol-generating matrix.

[0221] The inner body includes a central portion that defines a portion of an inner channel. The central portion may define the inner channel. The central portion may be arranged such that the central or longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating article can pass through the inner channel.

[0222] The central portion of the inner body can extend for substantially the entire length of the inner body. In other words, the central portion can extend from the upstream end of the inner body to the downstream end of the inner body. The central portion of the inner body can extend for substantially the entire length of the inner channel.

[0223] The central portion of the inner body can have any suitable cross-sectional shape. For example, the central portion of the inner body can have a substantially circular or substantially triangular cross-sectional shape. The central portion of the inner body can have a substantially hexagonal cross-sectional shape. As another example, the central portion of the inner body can have an irregular cross-sectional shape.

[0224] The central portion of the inner body may have a substantially constant cross-sectional shape and size along its entire length.

[0225] The central portion of the inner body can be substantially tubular.

[0226] The inner body includes at least two extensions that contact the inner surface of the outer tube. The at least two extensions can act as retaining devices to help hold the inner body within the outer tube. The at least two extensions can also act as retaining devices to help center the inner body within the outer tube.

[0227] Each extension can extend from the center of the inner body to the outer tube. Each extension can extend outward from the center of the inner body to the outer tube. Each extension can extend radially from the center of the inner body to the outer tube.

[0228] At least two extensions can divide the space between the outer tube and the central part of the inner body into one or more peripheral channels.

[0229] At least two extensions may be substantially equidistant from the central portion. When the inner body includes two extensions, the extensions may extend along the same plane. When the inner body includes two extensions, the extensions may be parallel to each other.

[0230] Each extension may have a substantially constant thickness. Each extension may have a substantially constant width in the transverse direction. Each extension may be substantially planar.

[0231] Each extension may have a proximal end connected to the central portion and a distal end engaging with the inner surface of the outer tube. The proximal end of each extension may be open. The distal end of each extension may be open or closed.

[0232] The central portion of the inner body and at least two extended portions of the inner body define the inner channel.

[0233] Each extension may define a portion of the inner channel. Each extension may include two extending walls extending from the central portion of the inner body to the outer tube, wherein a space is defined between the two extending walls. The space defined between the two extending walls may form a portion of the inner channel. The space defined between the two extending walls may be empty. The two extending walls may be substantially parallel. Each extension may be defined substantially by two substantially parallel extending walls.

[0234] As an example, an air guiding element may include: an outer tube; an inner body located within the outer tube; and an inner channel defined within the inner body, wherein the inner body includes a central portion and at least two extension portions, wherein the central portion of the inner body and the at least two extension portions of the inner body both define the inner channel, and wherein each extension portion includes two substantially parallel extending walls extending from the central portion of the inner body to the outer tube.

[0235] The ratio of the thickness of each extension to the width of the central portion can be less than or equal to 0.5 or less than or equal to 0.25. The ratio of the thickness of each extension to the width of the central portion can be at least 0.1. The ratio of the thickness of each extension to the width of the central portion can be between 0.1 and 0.5, or between 0.1 and 0.25.

[0236] The thickness of the extension can be measured in a direction substantially perpendicular to the direction along which the extension extends from the center portion of the inner body to the outer tube. In the case where the extension comprises two substantially parallel extension walls, the thickness of the extension is measured perpendicular to the extension walls.

[0237] The air guiding element may comprise only two extensions that are substantially parallel to each other. The ratio of the thickness of each extension to the width of the central portion may be less than or equal to 0.5 or less than or equal to 0.25, wherein the width of the central portion is measured in a direction parallel to the thickness of the extension. The ratio of the thickness of each extension to the width of the central portion may be at least 0.1, wherein the width of the central portion is measured in a direction parallel to the thickness of the extension. The ratio of the thickness of each extension to the width of the central portion may be between 0.1 and 0.5, or between 0.1 and 0.25, wherein the width of the central portion is measured in a direction parallel to the thickness of the extension.

[0238] Each extension may not be a portion of the inner channel. Each extension may include a single wall extending from the central portion of the inner body to the outer tube. Each extension may include fins extending from the central portion of the inner body to the outer tube.

[0239] The inner body may include up to six, five, four, or three extensions. The inner body may have only two, three, four, five, or six extensions. In the case where the inner body includes only two extensions, the two extensions may be opposite each other. The two extensions may be aligned substantially along the diameter of the air guide element.

[0240] Each extension in the extension section can extend the entire length of the inner body.

[0241] The maximum width of the inner body can substantially correspond to the inner diameter of the outer tube. This maximum width can be measured from the distal end of the first extension to the distal end of the second extension.

[0242] The inner body may include an upstream end wall at the upstream end of the central portion. The upstream end wall may define an opening for airflow between the inner channel and the exterior of the inner body. Airflow entering the inner channel through the opening may increase the turbulence level of the flow within the inner channel. This may increase the nucleation of aerosol particles within the inner channel and help cool the aerosols within the inner channel.

[0243] The upstream end wall can be the folded end portion of the inner body.

[0244] The inner body can be formed of any suitable material. Suitable materials include, but are not limited to: paper-based materials, such as paper and cardboard; and polylactic acid (PLA). Preferably, the inner body is formed of a paper-based material.

[0245] The inner body can be formed integrally. For example, in the case where the inner body includes a central portion and at least two extension portions, the central portion and at least two extension portions can be formed integrally. The inner body can be formed from a single sheet of material. The inner body can be formed by folding a single sheet of material. The distal end of each extension portion can be closed.

[0246] The inner body can be formed by pressing a single material tube. Alternatively, the inner body can be formed by vacuum forming a single material tube. Another method involves placing a single material tube around a strip whose cross-section matches the desired shape of the inner body and using suction to draw air into the strip to conform the material tube to the shape of the strip.

[0247] The inner body can be formed from multiple components or sections. The inner body can be formed from two components or sections. The inner body can be formed from multiple sheets of material. Each component or section of the inner body can be formed from a sheet of material. For example, the inner body can be formed from two sheets of material. The inner body can be formed by folding multiple sheets of material. The components or sections of the inner body can have the same shape and size. The components or sections of the inner body can be formed using a press configured to deform the sheets into a desired shape. The distal end of each extension can be open.

[0248] Each component of the inner body can be formed from a sheet of material that has been deformed to have a semi-circular central protrusion and two curved flanges on each longitudinal side of the sheet (either side of the semi-circular protrusion). The curved flanges can be formed by folding or bending the edge of the sheet of the component in the same direction as the direction in which the central protrusion protrudes.

[0249] Each extension may include at least one sealing flange located at its distal end. The sealing flange may be configured to engage with the inner surface of the outer tube. The flange may cooperate and engage with the inner surface of the outer tube. This engagement effectively forms a seal at each flange, preventing air and aerosol traveling within the inner channel from exiting the inner body via the open distal end of the extension and entering the peripheral channel. Each flange may adhere to the inner surface of the outer tube.

[0250] The components of the inner body can be inserted into the outer tube in a relatively oriented and parallel manner (both longitudinally and laterally) to form the inner body. The central protrusions of the opposing components of the inner body can cooperate to form a substantially tubular central portion of the inner body. Other portions (in other words, non-protruding portions) can cooperate to form two extensions of the inner body. An inner channel can be defined between the two components. The distal ends of the extensions can be open.

[0251] The inner passage can be essentially empty.

[0252] The inner channel may be at least partially filled. For example, the air guiding element may include a porous body located within the inner channel. As another example, the air guiding element may include a polylactic acid (PLA) membrane located within the inner channel. This can improve the cooling of aerosol flowing through the inner channel.

[0253] Aerosol-generating articles may include one or more ventilation zones extending along an air guiding element. Such ventilation zones may be referred to as longitudinal ventilation zones. One or more longitudinal ventilation zones may extend longitudinally along the length of the outer duct. The length of one or more longitudinal ventilation zones may correspond to the length of the inner body. Each longitudinal ventilation zone may span from an upstream end to a downstream end of the inner body. The longitudinal ventilation zones may be configured to establish fluid communication between the exterior of the air guiding element and the inner channel via the distal end of one of the extensions. In other words, the longitudinal ventilation zones may be configured to establish fluid communication between the exterior of the air guiding element and the inner channel via the end of one of the extensions that engages with the outer duct.

[0254] Each longitudinal ventilation zone may be aligned with the distal end of each extension. Each longitudinal ventilation zone is configured to establish fluid communication between the exterior and interior channels of the air guiding element via the distal end of the extension. Outside air may enter the interior channel via one or more longitudinal ventilation zones. Each longitudinal ventilation zone may include a perforated line extending through the wall of the outer tube. This perforated line may extend through any packaging (not shown) defining the outer tube.

[0255] The outer tube may include one or more tubular segments, or be formed from one or more tubular segments. The tubular segments are not integral with each other. In other words, the tubular segments are physically independent of each other. The outer tube may include one or more tubular segments arranged end-to-end adjacent to each other.

[0256] Preferably, the outer tube comprises a single tubular segment. Preferably, the outer tube is a single tube.

[0257] The outer tube may include multiple tubular segments. For example, the outer tube may include two tubular segments (a first tubular segment and a second tubular segment upstream of the first tubular segment), or be formed by two tubular segments. The second tubular segment may be substantially hollow. In other words, a cavity may be defined by the inner surface of the second tubular segment. An inner body may be located within the first tubular segment. The upstream end of the inner body may be substantially aligned with the upstream end of the first tubular segment. The downstream end of the inner body may be substantially aligned with the downstream end of the first tubular segment. In an aerosol-generating article, the product includes: an air guiding element having an outer tube including a first tubular segment and a second tubular segment upstream of the first tubular segment; a first ventilation zone; and a second ventilation zone, the first ventilation zone being located along the first tubular segment and the second ventilation zone being located along the second tubular segment.

[0258] The upstream end of the second tubular segment can define the upstream end of the outer tube. The downstream end of the first tubular segment can define the downstream end of the outer tube.

[0259] The second tubular segment may extend from the upstream end of the outer tube to the upstream end of the inner tube. The first tubular segment may extend from the downstream end of the second tubular segment to the downstream end of the outer tube.

[0260] The outer tube may have a substantially circular cross-sectional shape.

[0261] The outer tube can have a substantially constant cross-sectional shape and size along its entire length.

[0262] The outer tube can be basically cylindrical.

[0263] The outer tube can be formed from any suitable material. Suitable materials include, but are not limited to: paper-based materials, such as paper and cardboard; and polylactic acid (PLA). Preferably, the outer tube is formed from a paper-based material.

[0264] The outer tube and the inner body can be formed separately. Or the outer tube and the inner body can be formed as a single unit.

[0265] The inner body can extend to the downstream end of the air guide element. The inner body can extend from the downstream end of the air guide element towards the upstream end of the air guide element.

[0266] The downstream end of the inner body can be longitudinally aligned with the downstream end of the outer tube.

[0267] An air guiding element may include a porous body surrounding at least a portion of an inner body. This can help retain the inner body within an outer tube. This is particularly likely when the inner body does not contact the outer tube. For example, where the inner body does not include an extension that contacts the outer tube, the air guiding element may include a porous body surrounding the inner body. The porous body may be annular.

[0268] The porous body can have a width that is substantially the same as the internal width of the outer tube.

[0269] The porous body can extend from the downstream end of the inner body toward the upstream end of the inner body. The porous body can extend from the upstream end of the inner body toward the downstream end of the inner body. The porous body can extend from the downstream end of the inner body to the upstream end of the inner body.

[0270] The aerosol generating matrix may have a length of at least 4 mm, at least 6 mm, at least 8 mm, or at least 10 mm.

[0271] The aerosol generating matrix may have a length of less than or equal to 45 mm, less than or equal to 35 mm, less than or equal to 25 mm, or less than or equal to 15 mm.

[0272] The aerosol generating matrix can have a length between 4 mm and 45 mm, between 4 mm and 35 mm, between 4 mm and 25 mm, or between 4 mm and 15 mm.

[0273] The aerosol generating matrix can have a length between 6 mm and 45 mm, between 6 mm and 35 mm, between 6 mm and 25 mm, or between 6 mm and 15 mm.

[0274] The aerosol generating matrix can have a length between 6 mm and 45 mm, between 6 mm and 35 mm, between 6 mm and 25 mm, or between 6 mm and 15 mm.

[0275] The aerosol generating matrix can have a length between 8 mm and 45 mm, between 8 mm and 35 mm, between 8 mm and 25 mm, or between 8 mm and 15 mm.

[0276] The aerosol generating matrix can have a length between 10 mm and 45 mm, between 10 mm and 35 mm, between 10 mm and 25 mm, or between 10 mm and 15 mm. For example, the aerosol generating matrix can have a length of 11 mm or 12 mm.

[0277] The aerosol-generating matrix can be substantially cylindrical.

[0278] The aerosol-generating matrix can have a substantially circular cross-section.

[0279] The aerosol generating matrix may have an outer diameter that is substantially the same as the outer diameter of the aerosol generating article.

[0280] The aerosol generating matrix may have an outer diameter of at least 5 mm, at least 6 mm, or at least 7 mm.

[0281] The aerosol generating matrix may have an outer diameter of less than or equal to 12 mm, less than or equal to 10 mm, or less than or equal to 8 mm.

[0282] The aerosol generating matrix may have an outer diameter between 5 mm and 12 mm, between 5 mm and 10 mm, or between 5 mm and 8 mm.

[0283] The aerosol generating matrix may have an outer diameter between 6 mm and 12 mm, between 6 mm and 10 mm, or between 6 mm and 8 mm.

[0284] The aerosol generating matrix may have an outer diameter between 7 mm and 12 mm, between 7 mm and 10 mm, or between 7 mm and 8 mm.

[0285] For example, the aerosol generating matrix may have an outer diameter of 7 mm or 7.1 mm.

[0286] The aerosol generating matrix may have a density of at least 100 mg / cm³, at least 150 mg / cm³, at least 200 mg / cm³, at least 250 mg / cm³, or at least 275 mg / cm³.

[0287] The aerosol generating matrix may have a density of less than or equal to 700 mg / cm³, less than or equal to 650 mg / cm³, less than or equal to 600 mg / cm³, less than or equal to 550 mg / cm³, or less than or equal to 500 mg / cm³.

[0288] The aerosol generating matrix may have a density between 100 mg / cm³ and 700 mg / cm³, between 100 mg / cm³ and 650 mg / cm³, between 100 mg / cm³ and 600 mg / cm³, between 100 mg / cm³ and 550 mg / cm³, or between 100 mg / cm³ and 500 mg / cm³.

[0289] The aerosol generating matrix may have a density between 150 mg / cm³ and 700 mg / cm³, between 150 mg / cm³ and 650 mg / cm³, between 150 mg / cm³ and 600 mg / cm³, between 150 mg / cm³ and 550 mg / cm³, or between 150 mg / cm³ and 500 mg / cm³.

[0290] The aerosol generating matrix may have a density between 200 mg / cm³ and 700 mg / cm³, between 200 mg / cm³ and 650 mg / cm³, between 200 mg / cm³ and 600 mg / cm³, between 200 mg / cm³ and 550 mg / cm³, or between 200 mg / cm³ and 500 mg / cm³.

[0291] The aerosol generating matrix may have a density between 250 mg / cm³ and 700 mg / cm³, between 250 mg / cm³ and 650 mg / cm³, between 250 mg / cm³ and 600 mg / cm³, between 250 mg / cm³ and 550 mg / cm³, or between 250 mg / cm³ and 500 mg / cm³.

[0292] The aerosol generating matrix may have a density between 275 mg / cm³ and 700 mg / cm³, between 275 mg / cm³ and 650 mg / cm³, between 275 mg / cm³ and 600 mg / cm³, between 275 mg / cm³ and 550 mg / cm³, or between 275 mg / cm³ and 500 mg / cm³.

[0293] The aerosol generating matrix may have a mass of at least 100 mg, at least 120 mg, at least 130 mg, at least 140 mg, at least 150 mg, or at least 160 mg.

[0294] The aerosol generating matrix may have a mass of less than or equal to 340 mg, less than or equal to 310 mg, less than or equal to 280 mg, less than or equal to 250 mg, or less than or equal to 220 mg.

[0295] The aerosol generating matrix may have a mass between 100 mg and 340 mg, between 100 mg and 310 mg, between 100 mg and 280 mg, between 100 mg and 250 mg, or between 100 mg and 220 mg.

[0296] The aerosol generating matrix may have a mass between 120 mg and 340 mg, between 120 mg and 310 mg, between 120 mg and 280 mg, between 120 mg and 250 mg, or between 120 mg and 220 mg.

[0297] The aerosol generating matrix may have a mass between 130 mg and 340 mg, between 130 mg and 310 mg, between 130 mg and 280 mg, between 130 mg and 250 mg, or between 130 mg and 220 mg.

[0298] The aerosol generating matrix may have a mass between 140 mg and 340 mg, between 140 mg and 310 mg, between 140 mg and 280 mg, between 140 mg and 250 mg, or between 140 mg and 220 mg.

[0299] The aerosol generating matrix may have a mass between 150 mg and 340 mg, between 150 mg and 310 mg, between 150 mg and 280 mg, between 150 mg and 250 mg, or between 150 mg and 220 mg.

[0300] The aerosol generating matrix may have a mass between 160 mg and 340 mg, between 160 mg and 310 mg, between 160 mg and 280 mg, between 160 mg and 250 mg, or between 160 mg and 220 mg.

[0301] The aerosol-generating matrix can be defined by the packaging material. For example, the aerosol-generating matrix can be defined by a stick-shaped package.

[0302] Aerosol generation matrix may contain aerosol generation materials.

[0303] The aerosol generating matrix may comprise multiple strands of aerosol generating material. These strands of aerosol generating material may be randomly oriented within the aerosol generating matrix. In use, this helps to retain the generated aerosols within the aerosol generating matrix between aspiration cycles.

[0304] Aerosol-generating materials can be plant materials.

[0305] Aerosol-generating materials can be non-tobacco plant materials. Examples of suitable non-tobacco plant materials include hemp, ginger, eucalyptus, clove, and star anise.

[0306] The aerosol-generating material can be tobacco material.

[0307] The aerosol generating material can be tobacco shred filler.

[0308] Aerosol-generating materials can be homogenized plant materials.

[0309] Homogenized plant material strands can be formed by cutting or shredding sheets of homogenized plant material. Homogenized plant material strands can also be formed by other methods. For example, homogenized plant material strands can be formed by extrusion.

[0310] The aerosol-generating material can be homogenized non-tobacco plant material.

[0311] The aerosol-generating material can be homogenized tobacco material.

[0312] Aerosol-generating materials can be gel materials.

[0313] Stocks of gel materials can be formed by cutting or shredding sheets of gel material. Stocks of gel materials can also be formed by other methods. For example, stocks of gel materials can be formed by extrusion.

[0314] Aerosol-generating materials may contain aerosol forming agents.

[0315] Aerosol forming agents can be any suitable known compound or mixture of compounds that promotes the formation of dense and stable aerosols during use. Aerosol forming agents are substantially resistant to thermal degradation at temperatures typically reached during the use of aerosol-generating articles.

[0316] Examples of suitable aerosol forming agents include: polyols, such as triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol, propylene glycol, and glycerol; esters of polyols, such as mono-, di-, or triacetic acid esters of glycerol; aliphatic esters of monocarboxylic acids, dicarboxylic acids, or polycarboxylic acids, such as dimethyl dodecanoate and dimethyl tetradecanoate; and combinations thereof.

[0317] Aerosol forming agents may include one or more of glycerol and propylene glycol. Aerosol forming agents may be composed of glycerol. Aerosol forming agents may be composed of propylene glycol. Aerosol forming agents may be composed of a combination of glycerol and propylene glycol.

[0318] The aerosol generating material may contain at least 1% by weight, at least 5% by weight, at least 10% by weight, or at least 15% by weight of aerosol forming agent. That is, the aerosol generating material may have an aerosol forming agent content of at least 1%, at least 5%, at least 10% by weight, or at least 15% by weight.

[0319] Aerosol-generating materials may contain less than or equal to 30% by weight, less than or equal to 25% by weight, or less than or equal to 20% by weight of aerosol forming agent. In other words, aerosol-generating materials may have an aerosol forming agent content of less than or equal to 30% by weight, less than or equal to 25% by weight, or less than or equal to 20% by weight.

[0320] The aerosol generating material may contain between 1% and 30% by weight of aerosol forming agent, between 1% and 25% by weight of aerosol forming agent, or between 1% and 20% by weight of aerosol forming agent.

[0321] The aerosol generating material may contain between 5% and 30% by weight of aerosol forming agent, between 5% and 25% by weight of aerosol forming agent, or between 5% and 20% by weight of aerosol forming agent.

[0322] The aerosol generating material may contain between 10% and 30% by weight of aerosol forming agent, between 10% and 25% by weight of aerosol forming agent, or between 10% and 20% by weight of aerosol forming agent.

[0323] The aerosol generating material may contain between 15% and 30% by weight of aerosol forming agent, between 15% and 25% by weight of aerosol forming agent, or between 15% and 20% by weight of aerosol forming agent.

[0324] The aerosol generating material may contain at least 50% by weight of an aerosol forming agent, at least 60% by weight of an aerosol forming agent, or at least 70% by weight of an aerosol forming agent.

[0325] The aerosol generating material may contain less than or equal to 85% by weight of aerosol forming agent, less than or equal to 80% by weight of aerosol forming agent, or less than or equal to 75% by weight of aerosol forming agent.

[0326] The aerosol generating material may contain between 50% and 85% by weight of aerosol forming agent, between 50% and 80% by weight of aerosol forming agent, or between 50% and 75% by weight of aerosol forming agent.

[0327] The aerosol generating material may contain between 60% and 85% by weight of aerosol forming agent, between 60% and 80% by weight of aerosol forming agent, or between 60% and 75% by weight of aerosol forming agent.

[0328] The aerosol generating material may contain between 70% and 85% by weight of aerosol forming agent, between 70% and 80% by weight of aerosol forming agent, or between 70% and 75% by weight of aerosol forming agent.

[0329] Aerosol-generating materials may contain nicotine.

[0330] Aerosol-generating materials may contain natural nicotine, synthetic nicotine, or a combination of natural and synthetic nicotine.

[0331] The aerosol-generating material may contain at least 0.5% by weight of nicotine, at least 1% by weight of nicotine, at least 1.5% by weight of nicotine, or at least 2% by weight of nicotine. That is, the aerosol-generating material may have a nicotine content of at least 0.5% by weight, at least 1% by weight, at least 1.5% by weight, or at least 2% by weight.

[0332] Aerosol-generating materials may contain less than or equal to 10% by weight, less than or equal to 8% by weight, less than or equal to 6% by weight, or less than or equal to 4% by weight. In other words, aerosol-generating materials may have a nicotine content of less than or equal to 10% by weight, less than or equal to 8% by weight, less than or equal to 6% by weight, or less than or equal to 4% by weight.

[0333] The aerosol generating material may contain between 0.5% and 10% by weight of nicotine, between 0.5% and 8% by weight of nicotine, between 0.5% and 6% by weight of nicotine, or between 0.5% and 4% by weight of nicotine.

[0334] The aerosol generating material may contain between 1% and 10% by weight of nicotine, between 1% and 8% by weight of nicotine, between 1% and 6% by weight of nicotine, or between 1% and 4% by weight of nicotine.

[0335] The aerosol-generating material may contain between 1.5% and 10% by weight of nicotine, between 1.5% and 8% by weight of nicotine, between 1.5% and 6% by weight of nicotine, or between 1.5% and 4% by weight of nicotine.

[0336] The aerosol generating material may contain between 2% and 10% by weight of nicotine, between 2% and 8% by weight of nicotine, between 2% and 6% by weight of nicotine, or between 2% and 4% by weight of nicotine.

[0337] Aerosol-generating articles may include internal heating elements located within the aerosol-generating matrix.

[0338] The aerosol generation device of the aerosol generation system may include an internal heating element for insertion into the aerosol generation matrix of the aerosol generation article.

[0339] The internal heating element can come into contact with the aerosol-generating material. The internal heating element can come into contact with multiple strands of the aerosol-generating material. The internal heating element can have thermal contact with the aerosol-generating material. The internal heating element can have thermal contact with multiple strands of the aerosol-generating material. In use, heat from the internal heating element can be transferred to multiple strands of the aerosol-generating material. The internal heating element can advantageously have direct contact with the aerosol-generating material.

[0340] The internal heating element may have a length of at least 4 mm, at least 6 mm, at least 8 mm, or at least 10 mm.

[0341] The internal heating element may have a length of less than or equal to 45 mm, less than or equal to 35 mm, less than or equal to 25 mm, or less than or equal to 15 mm.

[0342] For example, the internal heating element may have a length between 4 mm and 45 mm, between 4 mm and 35 mm, between 4 mm and 25 mm, or between 4 mm and 15 mm.

[0343] The internal heating element may have a width of at least 0.5 mm, at least 1 mm, at least 1.5 mm, at least 2 mm, or at least 2.5 mm.

[0344] The internal heating element may have a width of less than or equal to 8 mm, less than or equal to 7 mm, less than or equal to 6 mm, less than or equal to 5 mm, or less than or equal to 4 mm.

[0345] For example, the internal heating element may have a width between 0.5 mm and 8 mm, between 0.5 mm and 7 mm, between 0.5 mm and 6 mm, between 0.5 mm and 5 mm, or between 0.5 mm and 4 mm.

[0346] The internal heating element can be slender.

[0347] The internal heating element can be basically cylindrical.

[0348] The internal heating element may have a thickness that is substantially the same as its width.

[0349] The internal heating element may have a substantially circular cross-section.

[0350] The internal heating element may be in the form of a needle or a pin.

[0351] The internal heating element may have a diameter of at least 0.5 mm, at least 1 mm, at least 1.5 mm, at least 2 mm, or at least 2.5 mm.

[0352] The internal heating element may have a diameter of less than or equal to 5 mm, less than or equal to 4.5 mm, less than or equal to 4 mm, less than or equal to 3.5 mm, or less than or equal to 3 mm.

[0353] For example, the internal heating element may have a diameter between 0.5 mm and 5 mm, between 0.5 mm and 4.5 mm, between 0.5 mm and 4 mm, between 0.5 mm and 3.5 mm, or between 0.5 mm and 3 mm.

[0354] The internal heating element may have a width greater than its thickness.

[0355] The internal heating element may have a substantially rectangular cross-section.

[0356] The internal heating element can be in the form of blades or strips.

[0357] The internal heating element may have a substantially constant cross-section along its length.

[0358] The internal heating element may have a thickness of at least 0.01 mm, at least 0.02 mm, at least 0.03 mm, or at least 0.05 mm.

[0359] The internal heating element may have a thickness of less than or equal to 2 mm, less than or equal to 1 mm, less than or equal to 0.5 mm, or less than or equal to 0.1 mm.

[0360] For example, the internal heating element may have a thickness between 0.01 mm and 2 mm, between 0.01 mm and 1 mm, between 0.01 mm and 0.5 mm, or between 0.01 mm and 0.1 mm.

[0361] For example, the internal heating element can have a thickness of 60 micrometers.

[0362] As described herein, the internal heating element of the article can be located within the aerosol-generating matrix. The internal heating element can be arranged substantially longitudinally within the aerosol-generating matrix. That is, the longitudinal axis of the internal heating element can be approximately parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating matrix. For example, the deviation between the parallelism of the longitudinal axis of the internal heating element and the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating matrix can be within + / - 10 degrees.

[0363] The internal heating element can be centrally located within the aerosol generating matrix. The internal heating element can extend along the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generating matrix.

[0364] The internal heating element can extend from the downstream end of the aerosol generating matrix toward the upstream end of the aerosol generating matrix.

[0365] The internal heating element can extend from the upstream end of the aerosol generating matrix toward the downstream end of the aerosol generating matrix.

[0366] The internal heating element can extend from the upstream end of the aerosol generating matrix to the downstream end of the aerosol generating matrix. In other words, the internal heating element can extend along the entire length of the aerosol generating matrix.

[0367] The length of the internal heating element can be approximately the same as the length of the aerosol-generating matrix.

[0368] The internal heating element can extend a portion along the length of the aerosol-generating matrix.

[0369] The internal heating element can be spaced apart from the downstream end of the aerosol generation matrix.

[0370] The internal heating element can be spaced apart from the upstream end of the aerosol generation matrix.

[0371] The internal heating element can be spaced apart from both the downstream and upstream ends of the aerosol generation matrix.

[0372] The length of the internal heating element can be less than the length of the aerosol generation matrix.

[0373] The internal heating element can be completely encapsulated within the aerosol generating matrix. In other words, the aerosol generating matrix or aerosol generating material can completely surround the internal heating element.

[0374] The internal heating element can be a sensor element.

[0375] The sensor element can contain any sensor material that can be inductively heated to a temperature sufficient to generate aerosols from the aerosol-generating matrix. For example, the sensor element can contain metals, alloys, or carbon.

[0376] The sensor element may contain ferromagnetic materials. For example, the sensor element may contain ferromagnetic alloys, ferritic iron, ferromagnetic steel, or stainless steel. The sensor element may contain aluminum. The sensor element may contain 400 series stainless steel. For example, the sensor element may contain 410, 420, or 430 grade stainless steel. When positioned in an electromagnetic field with similar frequency and field strength, different sensor materials will dissipate different amounts of energy.

[0377] Therefore, all parameters of the sensor element (such as the type of sensor material, length, width, and thickness) can be changed to provide the desired power dissipation within a known electromagnetic field. The sensor element can be heated to temperatures exceeding 250 degrees Celsius.

[0378] The sensor element may include a non-metallic core, on which a metallic layer is disposed. For example, the sensor element may include a metallic track formed on the surface of a ceramic core.

[0379] The receptor element may include a protective outer layer. For example, the receptor element may include a protective outer ceramic layer, a protective outer glass layer, or a protective outer inert metal layer.

[0380] The sensor element may include a protective coating. For example, the sensor element may include a protective coating formed of glass, ceramic, or inert metal.

[0381] The receptor element can be a multi-material receptor element. For example, the receptor element may include a first receptor material and a second receptor material.

[0382] The internal heating element can be a resistance heating element.

[0383] The aerosol generating article according to this disclosure may include an upstream segment located upstream of an aerosol generating matrix. The upstream segment may be adjacent to the aerosol generating matrix. The upstream segment may be adjacent to the upstream end of the aerosol generating matrix. The upstream segment may be located immediately upstream of the aerosol generating matrix. The upstream segment may be adjacent to the aerosol generating matrix. The upstream segment may be adjacent to the upstream end of the aerosol generating matrix. The downstream end of the upstream segment may be adjacent to the aerosol generating matrix. The downstream end of an upstream element of the upstream segment may be adjacent to the aerosol generating matrix. The upstream end of the aerosol generating article may be defined by the upstream end of the upstream segment. The upstream segment may extend from the upstream end of the aerosol generating article to the upstream end of the aerosol generating matrix.

[0384] The upstream section may include one or more upstream elements. The upstream section and its upstream elements advantageously prevent direct physical contact with the upstream end of the aerosol generating matrix.

[0385] According to this disclosure, the upstream element may be an air guide element. Such an air guide element may have any features, characteristics, or properties associated with the air guide elements described in this disclosure.

[0386] For example, in cases where an aerosol-generating article as described herein includes a receptor element located within an aerosol-generating matrix, an upstream element can prevent direct physical contact with the upstream end of the receptor element. This helps prevent displacement or deformation of the receptor element during handling or transport of the aerosol-generating article. This, in turn, helps to maintain the shape and position of the receptor element. Furthermore, the presence of an upstream element helps prevent any loss of the matrix, which may be advantageous, for example, if the matrix contains granular plant material.

[0387] In cases where the aerosol-generating matrix comprises multiple strands or shredded tobacco (such as tobacco shred filler), the upstream section and its components can additionally help prevent loose tobacco particles from being lost from the upstream end of the article. This may be particularly important, for example, when the bulk density of the aerosol-generating matrix is ​​relatively low.

[0388] The upstream section or its upstream components may also provide additional protection to the aerosol-generating matrix during storage, as the presence of the upstream section deflects the aerosol-generating matrix from the upstream end of the article and at least partially covers the upstream end of the aerosol-generating matrix that would otherwise be exposed.

[0389] For aerosol-generating articles intended to be inserted into a cavity in an aerosol-generating apparatus so that the aerosol-generating matrix can be externally heated within the cavity, the upstream section advantageously facilitates insertion of the upstream end of the article into the cavity. The upstream element further protects the end of the aerosol-generating matrix during insertion into the cavity, thereby minimizing the risk of damage to the matrix.

[0390] The upstream section or its upstream components may also provide an improved appearance for the upstream end of the aerosol-generating article. Furthermore, if desired, the upstream section may be used to provide information about the aerosol-generating article, such as the brand, flavor, contents, or details of the aerosol-generating apparatus to which the article is intended to be used.

[0391] The upstream element may include or may be a rod element. The upstream element may include or may be a porous rod element. The upstream element may be formed from a solid cylindrical rod element with a filled cross-section. Such a rod element may be referred to as a "general" element. As mentioned above, the solid rod element may be porous but does not have a tubular form and therefore does not provide a longitudinal flow channel. The solid rod element may have a substantially uniform cross-section.

[0392] The upstream element may be made of a porous material or may include multiple openings. For example, this can be achieved by laser perforation. The multiple openings can be evenly distributed across the cross-section of the upstream element.

[0393] The porosity or permeability of upstream elements can be advantageously designed to provide a specific total suction resistance (RTD) to the aerosol-generating article without substantially affecting the filtration provided by other parts of the article.

[0394] It may be desirable to minimize the RTD of upstream components. This is possible, for example, for articles designed to be inserted into the cavity of an aerosol generation device so that the aerosol generation matrix is ​​externally heated. It may be desirable to provide the lowest possible RTD for the article, so that the majority of the user's RTD experience is provided by the aerosol generation device rather than the article.

[0395] The RTD of the upstream element can be less than or equal to 30 mmH2O. The RTD of the upstream element can be less than or equal to 20 mmH2O. The RTD of the upstream element can be less than or equal to 10 mmH2O. The RTD of the upstream element can be less than or equal to 5 mmH2O. The RTD of the upstream element can be less than or equal to 2 mmH2O.

[0396] The RTD of the upstream element may be at least 0 mm H2O, or at least 0.1 mm H2O, or at least 0.25 mm H2O, or at least 0.5 mm H2O.

[0397] The upstream element can be formed from a hollow tubular element that defines a longitudinal cavity providing an unrestricted flow channel. Therefore, as described above, such an upstream element can provide protection for the aerosol-generating matrix while having minimal impact on the overall suction resistance (RTD) and filtration characteristics of the article.

[0398] The upstream element in the upstream section can be made of any material suitable for aerosol-generating articles. The upstream element can be made, for example, of the same material used in other components of the aerosol-generating article, such as downstream filter elements or downstream hollow tubular elements. Suitable materials for forming the upstream element of this disclosure include filter materials, ceramics, polymer materials, cellulose acetate, cardboard, zeolite, or aerosol-generating matrices. The upstream element may include cellulose acetate rods. The upstream element may include hollow acetate tubing or cardboard tubing.

[0399] The upstream section or its upstream element may have an outer diameter approximately equal to the outer diameter of the aerosol-generated article.

[0400] The upstream section or upstream element may have a length between 2 mm and 10 mm, or between 3 mm and 8 mm, or between 2 mm and 6 mm. The upstream section or upstream element may have a length of 5 mm.

[0401] The length of the upstream section or upstream element can be advantageously varied to provide the desired total length of the aerosol-generating article. For example, if it is desirable to reduce the length of one of the other components of the aerosol-generating article, the length of the upstream section or upstream element can be increased to maintain the same total length of the article.

[0402] Furthermore, for articles intended to be externally heated, the length of the upstream section or its upstream element can be used to control the position of the aerosol-generating article within the cavity of the aerosol-generating apparatus. This advantageously ensures that the position of the aerosol-generating matrix within the cavity can be optimized for heating, and also optimizes the location of any ventilation.

[0403] The upstream section may be defined by the packaging. The packaging may be bar packaging.

[0404] The upstream section can be connected to the aerosol generating matrix by means of an outer packaging material. The upstream section can also be connected to at least a portion of the downstream section by means of an outer packaging material, which may be the same outer packaging material or a different outer packaging material connecting the upstream section to the aerosol generating matrix.

[0405] The aerosol generating article according to this disclosure includes a downstream section located downstream of an aerosol generating matrix. The downstream section may be adjacent to the aerosol generating matrix. The downstream section may be adjacent to the downstream end of the aerosol generating matrix. The downstream section may be located immediately downstream of the aerosol generating matrix. The downstream section may be adjacent to the aerosol generating matrix. The downstream section may be adjacent to the downstream end of the aerosol generating matrix. The upstream end of the downstream section may be adjacent to the aerosol generating matrix. The downstream section of the aerosol generating article may extend between the aerosol generating matrix and the downstream end of the aerosol generating article. The downstream end of the aerosol generating article may be defined by the downstream end of the downstream section. The downstream end of the aerosol generating article may coincide with the downstream end of the downstream section. The downstream section may extend from the downstream end of the aerosol generating matrix to the downstream end of the aerosol generating article.

[0406] The downstream section may include one or more elements, each of which is described in more detail within this disclosure. The upstream end of an element in the downstream section may be adjacent to the aerosol-generating matrix. The downstream end of an element in the downstream section may define the downstream end of an aerosol-generating article.

[0407] The downstream section may be at least 20 mm long. The downstream section may be at least 25 mm long. The downstream section may be at least 30 mm long.

[0408] The length of the downstream section may be less than or equal to 45 mm. The length of the downstream section may be equal to or less than 40 mm. The length of the downstream section may be equal to or less than 35 mm.

[0409] The length of the downstream section may be between 20 mm and 45 mm, or between 25 mm and 45 mm, or between 30 mm and 45 mm. The length of the downstream section may be between 20 mm and 40 mm, or between 25 mm and 40 mm, or between 30 mm and 40 mm. The length of the downstream section may be between 20 mm and 35 mm, or between 25 mm and 35 mm, or between 30 mm and 35 mm.

[0410] Providing a relatively long downstream section ensures that the aerosol-generated article of appropriate length protrudes from the aerosol-generating device when it is received in the device. This appropriate protrusion length facilitates easy insertion and removal of the article from the device, and also ensures that the upstream portion of the article (especially during insertion) is properly inserted into the device while reducing the risk of damage.

[0411] The downstream section of the aerosol generating article may include a cooling element disposed downstream of the aerosol generating matrix. The cooling element may be disposed immediately downstream of the aerosol generating matrix. In other words, the cooling element may be adjacent to the downstream end of the aerosol generating matrix. The cooling element may define the upstream end of the downstream section of the aerosol generating article. The cooling element may also define the downstream end of the downstream section of the aerosol generating article. The cooling element may also extend to the downstream end of the aerosol generating article. The downstream section of the aerosol generating article may include a single cooling element. In other words, the downstream section of the aerosol generating article may include only one cooling element.

[0412] As described in this disclosure, the air guiding element can be a cooling element disposed downstream of the aerosol generating matrix.

[0413] The downstream section may include a filter element. The filter element is sometimes also referred to as a mouthpiece element. The filter element may extend to the downstream end of the downstream section. The filter element may extend to the downstream end of the aerosol-generating article. The filter element may extend from the downstream end of the aerosol-generating article. The filter element may be located at the downstream end of the aerosol-generating article. The downstream end of the filter element may define the downstream end of the aerosol-generating article.

[0414] The filter element can be located downstream of the cooling element in the downstream section. The filter element can extend between the cooling element and the downstream end of the aerosol-generating article. The filter element can be adjacent to the cooling element in the downstream section. The upstream end of the filter element can be adjacent to the downstream end of the cooling element in the downstream section.

[0415] For example, aerosol generating articles may include an air guiding element downstream of the aerosol generating matrix and a filter element downstream of the air guiding element.

[0416] Filter elements can be in the form of filter tip segments or solid filter tip segments. Such filter elements can be referred to as filter tip segments. Filter elements can be porous filter tip segment elements. Filter elements can be formed from solid cylindrical filter tip segment elements with a filled cross-section. As mentioned above, solid cylindrical filter tip segment elements can be porous, but are not tubular in form, and therefore do not provide longitudinal flow channels. Solid filter tip segment elements can have a substantially uniform cross-section.

[0417] The aerosol generating article or downstream section may not include a cavity or recess defined at the inlet or downstream end of the article. The aerosol generating article or downstream section may not include a cavity or recess extending from the filter element to the inlet or downstream end of the article. For example, the aerosol generating article may include a filter tip section at the downstream end of the aerosol generating article. The filter tip section may extend from the downstream end of the aerosol generating article toward the upstream end of the aerosol generating article. This can help achieve a desired temperature profile of the aerosol across the aerosol generating article at the inlet end of the aerosol generating article.

[0418] Filter elements can be formed from fibrous filter media. Fiber filter media can be used to filter aerosols generated by an aerosol-generating matrix. Suitable fibrous filter media are known to those skilled in the art. Filter elements can contain cellulose acetate. Filter elements can contain cellulose acetate tows. Filter elements can be formed from cellulose acetate tows.

[0419] The filter element may include a flavoring agent, which may be provided in any suitable form. For example, the filter element may include one or more capsules, beads, or particles of flavoring agent, or one or more threads or filaments carrying flavoring.

[0420] Filter elements may have low particle filtration efficiency.

[0421] The filter element may be defined by a rod package. The filter element may be non-ventilated, preventing air from entering the aerosol-generating product along the filter element.

[0422] The filter element can be connected to one or more upstream components of the adjacent upstream component of the aerosol generating article by means of a tipping package.

[0423] The filter element may have an outer diameter that is approximately equal to the outer diameter of the aerosol-generating article. The diameter of the filter element may be substantially the same as or substantially the same as the outer diameter of the cooling element. The diameter of the filter element may be substantially the same as or substantially the same as the outer diameter of the air guiding element.

[0424] The diameter of the filter element can be between 5 mm and 10 mm. The diameter of the filter element can be between 6 mm and 8 mm.

[0425] The length of the filter element may be at least 5 mm. The length of the filter element may be at least 6 mm. The length of the filter element may be less than or equal to 12 mm. The length of the filter element may be less than or equal to 10 mm.

[0426] For example, the length of the filter element can be between 5 mm and 10 mm, or between 6 mm and 12 mm, or between 5 mm and 10 mm, or between 6 mm and 12 mm.

[0427] The aerosol generating article according to this disclosure may include an aerosol generating matrix, an upstream section located upstream of the aerosol generating matrix, and a downstream section located downstream of the aerosol generating matrix. According to this disclosure, the upstream section may include upstream elements. The downstream section may include an aerosol cooling element and a filter or nozzle element, both of which are according to this disclosure. The cooling element may be located between the aerosol generating matrix and the filter element. According to this disclosure, the cooling element may be an air guiding element.

[0428] All components of the aerosol-generating article according to this disclosure can be assembled axially, sequentially, and adjacently within one or more packaging materials of the aerosol-generating article. Each component of the aerosol-generating article can also be individually wrapped, for example, by a corresponding rod package.

[0429] Aerosol-generated articles may have a total length of at least 38 mm, at least 40 mm, or at least 42 mm.

[0430] Aerosol-generated articles may have a total length of less than or equal to 70 mm, less than or equal to 60 mm, or less than or equal to 50 mm.

[0431] For example, aerosol-generated articles may have a total length between 38 mm and 70 mm, between 38 mm and 60 mm, or between 38 mm and 50 mm.

[0432] For example, aerosol-generated articles can have a total length of 45 millimeters.

[0433] Aerosol-generated articles can be substantially cylindrical. Aerosol-generated articles can have a substantially circular cross-section.

[0434] Aerosol-generated articles may have an outer diameter of at least 5 mm, at least 6 mm, or at least 7 mm.

[0435] Aerosol-generated articles may have an outer diameter of less than or equal to 12 mm, less than or equal to 10 mm, or less than or equal to 8 mm.

[0436] Aerosol-generating articles may have an outer diameter between 5 mm and 12 mm, between 5 mm and 10 mm, or between 5 mm and 8 mm. For example, an aerosol-generating article may have an outer diameter of 7.1 mm or 7.2 mm.

[0437] This disclosure relates to an aerosol generation system, which includes the aerosol generation article described herein and an aerosol generation apparatus configured to heat the aerosol generation article. In other words, the aerosol generation system may include a consumable aerosol generation article and a reusable aerosol generation apparatus.

[0438] The aerosol generating device can be a handheld aerosol generating device. The aerosol generating device can also be an electrically operated aerosol generating device.

[0439] The aerosol generating apparatus may have a distal end and an inlet end. The aerosol generating apparatus may include a housing. The housing of the aerosol generating apparatus may define a device cavity (or heating chamber) for removably receiving the aerosol-generated article at the inlet end of the apparatus. The aerosol generating apparatus may include a heating element or heater for heating the aerosol-generating matrix when the aerosol-generated article is received within the device cavity.

[0440] The device cavity can also be referred to as the heating chamber of an aerosol generating apparatus. The device cavity may extend between a distal end and an inlet or proximal end. The distal end of the device cavity may be a closed end, and the inlet or proximal end may be an open end. An aerosol generating article may be inserted into the device cavity or heating chamber via the open end of the device cavity. The device cavity may be configured to receive at least a portion of the aerosol generating article. The device cavity may be configured to receive at least the aerosol generating matrix of the aerosol generating article. The device cavity may be substantially cylindrical. The device cavity may have a substantially circular cross-section. The device cavity may be cylindrical in shape to conform to the same shape as the aerosol generating article.

[0441] The aerosol generating device may include a heating element.

[0442] Aerosol generating apparatus may include an external heating element. The heating element can externally heat the aerosol generating article when it is received within the aerosol generating apparatus. This external heater can define the aerosol generating article when it is inserted into or received within the aerosol generating apparatus. The heater can be arranged to heat the outer surface of the aerosol generating matrix. The external heating element can be positioned around the periphery of the apparatus cavity. The external heating element can be a resistance heating element. The external heating element can be a sensor element (or an induction heating element).

[0443] As described in this disclosure, aerosol generating articles may include internal heating elements located within an aerosol generating matrix.

[0444] As described in this disclosure, an aerosol generating apparatus may include an internal heating element for insertion into an aerosol generating matrix of an aerosol generating article. The internal heating element of the aerosol generating apparatus may be positioned within an apparatus cavity or heating chamber. The internal heating element may be arranged substantially longitudinally within the apparatus cavity. That is, the longitudinal axis of the internal heating element may be substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the apparatus cavity. The internal heating element may be centrally located within the apparatus cavity. The internal heating element may extend along the longitudinal axis of the apparatus cavity. The internal heating element may be elongated. The internal heating element may be substantially cylindrical. The internal heating element may have a thickness substantially the same as its width. The internal heating element may have a substantially circular cross-section. The internal heating element may be in the form of a needle or pin. The internal heating element may have a width greater than its thickness. The internal heating element may have a substantially rectangular cross-section. The internal heating element may be in the form of a blade or strip.

[0445] The internal heating element can be a resistance heating element. Alternatively, it can be a sensor element (or an induction heating element).

[0446] The aerosol generating apparatus may include a sensing element. The sensing element may include one or more induction coils. The sensing element may be positioned around the periphery of the apparatus cavity. A power source for the apparatus may be configured to provide a high-frequency oscillating current to the sensing element or induction coil. The sensing element or induction coil may be arranged to generate a high-frequency oscillating electromagnetic field upon receiving the high-frequency oscillating current from the power source. The sensing element or induction coil may be arranged to generate a high-frequency oscillating electromagnetic field within the apparatus cavity. The induction coil may substantially define the apparatus cavity. The sensing element or induction coil may extend at least partially along the length of the apparatus cavity.

[0447] When the sensor element of either the aerosol generating article or the aerosol generating apparatus is placed in an alternating electromagnetic field, the sensor is heated. The heating of the sensor element may be a result of at least one of hysteresis losses and eddy currents induced in the sensor, depending on the electrical and magnetic properties of the sensor material. The sensor element can be arranged such that when the aerosol generating article is received in the apparatus cavity of the aerosol generating apparatus, the oscillating electromagnetic field generated by the sensing element induces a current in the sensor element, thereby causing the sensor element (of either the aerosol generating article or the aerosol generating apparatus) to heat up.

[0448] The sensor element of this disclosure, in any of the aerosol generating articles or aerosol generating apparatus, can be formed of any material that can be inductively heated to a temperature sufficient to heat the aerosol generating matrix to cause the release of volatile compounds from the matrix. For example, the sensor element may comprise a metal, alloy, or carbon.

[0449] The sensor element may contain ferromagnetic materials. For example, the sensor element may contain ferromagnetic alloys, ferritic iron, ferromagnetic steel, or stainless steel. The sensor element may contain aluminum. The sensor element may contain 400 series stainless steel. For example, the sensor element may contain 410, 420, or 430 grade stainless steel. When positioned in an electromagnetic field with similar frequency and field strength, different sensor materials will dissipate different amounts of energy.

[0450] Therefore, all parameters of the sensor element (such as the type of sensor material, length, width, and thickness) can be changed to provide the desired power dissipation within a known electromagnetic field. The sensor element can be heated to temperatures exceeding 250 degrees Celsius.

[0451] The sensor element may include a non-metallic core, on which a metallic layer is disposed. For example, the sensor element may include a metallic track formed on the surface of a ceramic core.

[0452] The receptor element may include a protective outer layer. For example, the receptor element may include a protective outer ceramic layer, a protective outer glass layer, or a protective outer inert metal layer.

[0453] The sensor element may include a protective coating. For example, the sensor element may include a protective coating formed of glass, ceramic, or inert metal.

[0454] The receptor element can be a multi-material receptor element. For example, the receptor element may include a first receptor material and a second receptor material.

[0455] In cases where the aerosol-generating article includes one or more ventilation zones, at least one or all ventilation zones can be arranged to be exposed when the aerosol-generating article is received within the device cavity. Therefore, the length of the device cavity or heating chamber can be less than the distance from the upstream end of the aerosol-generating article to the ventilation zone positioned along the downstream section. In other words, when the aerosol-generating article is received within the aerosol-generating device, the distance between the ventilation zone and the upstream end of the upstream element can be greater than the length of the heating chamber. This positioning of the ventilation zones ensures that they are not blocked within the device cavity itself, while also minimizing the risk of blockage by the user's lips or hands, because the ventilation zones are located as reasonably upstream of the downstream end of the article, without being blocked within the device cavity.

[0456] The following is a non-exhaustive list of non-limiting examples. Any one or more features of these examples may be combined with any one or more features of another example, embodiment, or aspect described herein.

[0457] EX1: An air guiding element or cooling element for aerosol generation articles, the cooling element comprising: an outer tube; an inner body located within the outer tube; and an inner channel defined within the inner body.

[0458] EX2: Based on the air guiding element or cooling element of EX1, it includes one or more peripheral channels located between the outer tube and the inner body.

[0459] EX3: Based on the air guiding or cooling element of EX1 or EX2, it includes up to six peripheral channels located between the outer tube and the inner body.

[0460] EX4: An air guiding element or cooling element according to any one of EX1 to EX3, wherein the length of the inner body is at least 20% of the length of the air guiding element or cooling element.

[0461] EX5: An air guiding element or cooling element according to any one of EX1 to EX4, wherein the length of the inner body is less than or equal to 80% of the length of the air guiding element or cooling element.

[0462] EX6: An air guiding element or cooling element according to any one of EX1 to EX5, wherein the inner body has a length of at least 4 mm.

[0463] EX7: An air guiding element or cooling element according to any one of EX1 to EX6, wherein the inner body has a length of less than or equal to 18 mm.

[0464] EX8: An air guiding element or cooling element according to any one of EX1 to EX7, wherein the inner channel extends substantially the entire length of the inner body.

[0465] EX9: An air guiding element or cooling element according to any one of EX1 to EX8, wherein the length of the inner channel is at least 20% of the length of the air guiding element or cooling element.

[0466] EX10: An air guiding element or cooling element according to any one of EX1 to EX9, wherein the length of the inner channel is less than or equal to 80% of the length of the air guiding element or cooling element.

[0467] EX11: An air guiding element or cooling element according to any one of EX1 to EX10, wherein the inner channel has a length of at least 4 mm.

[0468] EX12: An air guiding element or cooling element according to any one of EX1 to EX11, wherein the inner channel has a length of less than or equal to 18 mm.

[0469] EX13: An air guiding element or cooling element according to any one of EX1 to EX12, wherein the upstream end of the inner body is positioned away from the upstream end of the air guiding element or cooling element.

[0470] EX14: An air guiding element or cooling element according to any one of EX1 to EX13, wherein the upstream end of the inner body is positioned at a distance from the upstream end of the air guiding element or cooling element that is at least 20% of the length of the air guiding element or cooling element.

[0471] EX15: An air guiding element or cooling element according to any one of EX1 to EX14, wherein the upstream end of the inner body is positioned at a distance from the upstream end of the air guiding element or cooling element that is less than or equal to 80% of the length of the air guiding element or cooling element.

[0472] EX16: An air guiding element or cooling element according to any one of EX1 to EX15, wherein the upstream end of the inner body is positioned at a distance of at least 4 mm from the upstream end of the air guiding element or cooling element.

[0473] EX17: An air guiding element or cooling element according to any one of EX1 to EX16, wherein the upstream end of the inner body is positioned at a distance from the upstream end of the air guiding element or cooling element of less than or equal to 18 mm.

[0474] EX18: An air guiding element or cooling element according to any one of EX1 to EX17, wherein the upstream end of the inner body is positioned away from the upstream end of the outer tube.

[0475] EX19: An air guiding element or cooling element according to any one of EX1 to EX18, wherein the upstream end of the inner body is positioned at a distance from the upstream end of the outer tube that is at least 20% of the length of the air guiding element or cooling element.

[0476] EX20: An air guiding element or cooling element according to any one of EX1 to EX19, wherein the upstream end of the inner body is positioned at a distance from the upstream end of the outer tube that is less than or equal to 80% of the length of the air guiding element or cooling element.

[0477] EX21: An air guiding element or cooling element according to any one of EX1 to EX20, wherein the upstream end of the inner body is positioned at a distance of at least 4 mm from the upstream end of the outer tube.

[0478] EX22: An air guiding element or cooling element according to any one of EX1 to EX21, wherein the upstream end of the inner body is positioned at a distance from the upstream end of the outer tube of less than or equal to 18 mm.

[0479] EX23: An air guiding element or cooling element according to any one of EX1 to EX22, comprising a cavity defined by the inner surface of the outer tube, the cavity extending from the upstream end of the inner body toward the upstream end of the air guiding element or cooling element.

[0480] EX24: An air guiding element or cooling element according to any one of EX1 to EX23, wherein the air guiding element or cooling element has a length of at least 8 mm.

[0481] EX25: An air guiding element or cooling element according to any one of EX1 to EX24, wherein the air guiding element or cooling element has a length of less than or equal to 28 mm.

[0482] EX26: An air guiding element or cooling element according to any one of EX1 to EX25, wherein the outer tube extends substantially the entire length of the air guiding element or cooling element.

[0483] EX27: An air guiding element or cooling element according to any one of EX1 to EX26, wherein the outer tube has a length of at least 8 mm.

[0484] EX28: An air guiding element or cooling element according to any one of EX1 to EX27, wherein the outer tube has a length of less than or equal to 28 mm.

[0485] EX29: An air guiding element or cooling element according to any one of EX1 to EX28, wherein the cooling element includes a single internal channel.

[0486] EX30: An air guiding element or cooling element according to any one of EX1 to EX29, wherein, in the same transverse plane, the inner channel has a cross-sectional area of ​​at least 15% of the cross-sectional area of ​​the air guiding element or cooling element.

[0487] EX31: An air guiding element or cooling element according to any one of EX1 to EX30, wherein in the same transverse plane, the inner channel has a cross-sectional area of ​​less than or equal to 40% of the cross-sectional area of ​​the air guiding element or cooling element.

[0488] EX32: An air guiding element or cooling element according to any one of EX1 to EX31, wherein the width of the inner channel is at least 30% of the width of the air guiding element or cooling element.

[0489] EX33: An air guiding element or cooling element according to any one of EX1 to EX32, wherein the width of the inner channel is substantially the same as the width of the air guiding element or cooling element.

[0490] EX34: An air guiding element or cooling element according to any one of EX1 to EX32, wherein the width of the inner channel is at most 90% of the width of the air guiding element or cooling element.

[0491] EX35: An air guiding element or cooling element according to any one of EX1 to EX34, wherein the width of the air guiding element or cooling element is substantially the same as the width of the aerosol-generating article.

[0492] EX36: An air guiding element or cooling element according to any one of EX1 to EX35, wherein the width of the outer tube is substantially the same as the width of the air guiding element or cooling element.

[0493] EX37: An air guiding element or cooling element according to any one of EX1 to EX36, wherein the inner channel has a substantially circular cross-sectional shape.

[0494] EX38: An air guiding element or cooling element according to any one of EX1 to EX37, wherein the inner channel is substantially cylindrical.

[0495] EX39: An air guiding element or cooling element according to any one of EX1 to EX38, wherein the central axis of the aerosol generating article passes through the inner channel.

[0496] EX40: An air guiding or cooling element according to any one of EX1 to EX39, wherein the inner body includes: a central portion defining the inner channel, and at least two extension portions in contact with the inner surface of the outer tube.

[0497] EX41: According to the air guiding element or cooling element of EX40, the central portion of the inner body has a substantially circular cross-sectional shape.

[0498] EX42: An air guiding or cooling element according to EX40 or EX41, wherein each of at least two extensions of the inner body extends from the central portion of the inner body to the outer tube.

[0499] EX43: An air guiding element or cooling element according to any one of EX40 to EX42, wherein the at least two extensions are substantially equidistant from the central portion.

[0500] EX44: An air guiding element or cooling element according to any one of EX40 to EX43, wherein each of the at least two extensions is substantially planar.

[0501] EX45: An air guiding element or cooling element according to any one of EX40 to EX44, wherein the central portion of the inner body and at least two extensions of the inner body both define the inner channel.

[0502] EX46: According to the air guiding element or cooling element of EX45, each of the at least two extensions includes two extension walls extending from the central portion of the inner body to the outer tube, wherein a space is defined between the two extension walls.

[0503] EX47: According to the air guiding element or cooling element of EX46, the two extension walls of each of the at least two extensions are substantially parallel to each other.

[0504] EX48: An air guiding or cooling element according to EX45 to EX47, wherein the ratio of the thickness of each of the at least two extensions to the width of the central portion is less than or equal to 0.5.

[0505] EX49: An air guiding or cooling element according to EX45 to EX48, wherein the ratio of the thickness of each of the at least two extensions to the width of the central portion is at least 0.1.

[0506] EX50: An air guiding element or cooling element according to any one of EX40 to EX44, wherein each of the at least two extensions does not define a portion of the inner channel.

[0507] EX51: According to the air guiding element or cooling element of EX50, each of the at least two extensions includes a single wall extending from the central portion of the inner body to the outer tube.

[0508] EX52: An air guiding or cooling element according to any one of EX40 to EX51, wherein the inner body includes up to six extensions that contact the inner surface of the outer tube.

[0509] EX53: An air guiding element or cooling element according to any one of EX40 to EX52, wherein each of the at least two extensions extends the entire length of the inner body.

[0510] EX54: An air guiding element or cooling element according to any one of EX1 to EX53, wherein the inner channel has a cross-sectional area of ​​at least 6 square millimeters.

[0511] EX55: An air guiding element or cooling element according to any one of EX1 to EX54, wherein the inner channel has a cross-sectional area of ​​less than or equal to 16 square millimeters.

[0512] EX56: An air guiding element or cooling element according to any one of EX1 to EX55, wherein the inner channel has a width of at least 2 mm.

[0513] EX57: An air guiding element or cooling element according to any one of EX1 to EX56, wherein the inner channel has a width of less than or equal to 7 mm.

[0514] EX58: An air guiding element or cooling element according to any one of EX1 to EX57, wherein the outer tube is a single tube.

[0515] EX59: An air guiding element or cooling element according to any one of EX1 to EX57, wherein the outer tube is formed by two tubular segments that are adjacent to each other end to end.

[0516] EX60: An air guiding or cooling element according to EX59, wherein the outer tube is formed by a first or downstream tubular segment and a second or upstream tubular segment located upstream of the first or downstream tubular segment, and wherein the inner body is completely located within the first or downstream tubular segment.

[0517] EX61: An air guiding or cooling element according to any one of EX1 to EX60, wherein the inner body includes an upstream end wall at the upstream end of the central portion of the inner body, wherein the upstream end wall defines an opening for airflow between the inner channel and the outside of the inner body.

[0518] EX62: An air guiding element or cooling element according to any one of EX1 to EX61, wherein one or both of the inner body and the outer tube are formed of paper sheet.

[0519] EX63: An air guiding element or cooling element according to any one of EX1 to EX62, wherein the inner body and the outer tube are integrally formed or separately formed.

[0520] EX64: An air guiding or cooling element according to any one of EX1 to EX63, wherein the outer tube is substantially cylindrical.

[0521] EX65: An air guiding element or cooling element according to any one of EX1 to EX64, comprising a porous body surrounding at least a portion of the inner body.

[0522] EX66: An aerosol generating article comprising an aerosol generating matrix and an air guiding element or cooling element according to any one of EX1 to EX65.

[0523] EX67: An aerosol generating article according to EX66, wherein the air guiding element or cooling element is located downstream of the aerosol generating matrix.

[0524] EX68: An aerosol generating article according to EX67, wherein the upstream end of the air guiding element or cooling element is adjacent to the downstream end of the aerosol generating matrix.

[0525] EX69: An aerosol-generating article according to EX67 or EX68, wherein the upstream end of the inner body is positioned away from the downstream end of the aerosol-generating matrix.

[0526] EX70: An aerosol generating article according to any one of EX67 to EX69, wherein the upstream end of the inner body is positioned at a distance from the downstream end of the aerosol generating matrix of at least 20% of the length of the air guiding element or cooling element.

[0527] EX71: An aerosol generating article according to any one of EX67 to EX69, wherein the upstream end of the inner body is positioned at a distance from the downstream end of the aerosol generating matrix that is less than or equal to 80% of the length of the air guiding element or cooling element.

[0528] EX72: An aerosol-generating article according to any one of EX67 to EX70, wherein the upstream end of the inner body is positioned at a distance of at least 4 mm from the downstream end of the aerosol-generating matrix.

[0529] EX73: An aerosol-generating article according to any one of EX67 to EX72, wherein the upstream end of the inner body is positioned at a distance less than or equal to 18 mm from the downstream end of the aerosol-generating matrix.

[0530] EX74: An aerosol-generating article according to any one of EX66 to EX73, comprising one or more ventilation zones located downstream of the aerosol-generating matrix.

[0531] EX75: An aerosol generating article according to any one of EX67 to EX74, comprising one or more ventilation zones at a location along the outer tube, the one or more ventilation zones being configured to establish fluid communication between the exterior of the aerosol generating article and the interior of the outer tube.

[0532] EX76: An aerosol-generating article according to any one of EX67 to EX75, including a ventilation zone located along the outer tube and downstream of the upstream end of the inner body.

[0533] EX77: An aerosol-generating article according to EX76, wherein the ventilation zone is located downstream of the upstream end of the inner body, and the distance between the ventilation zone and the upstream end of the inner body is less than or equal to 50% of the length of the inner body.

[0534] EX78: An aerosol-generated article according to EX76 or EX77, wherein the ventilation zone is located downstream of the upstream end of the inner body, and is at least 10% of the length of the inner body from the upstream end of the inner body.

[0535] EX79: An aerosol-generating article according to any one of EX76 to EX78, wherein the ventilation zone is located downstream of the upstream end of the inner body, and is less than or equal to 4 mm from the upstream end of the inner body.

[0536] EX80: An aerosol-generating article according to any one of EX76 to EX78, wherein the ventilation zone is located downstream of the upstream end of the inner body and is at least 1 mm away from the upstream end of the inner body.

[0537] EX81: An aerosol-generating article according to any one of EX67 to EX80, including a ventilation zone positioned along the outer tube and located upstream of the upstream end of the inner body.

[0538] EX82: An aerosol-generating article according to any one of EX75 to EX81, comprising a first ventilation zone positioned along the outer tube and downstream of the upstream end of the inner body, and a second ventilation zone positioned along the outer tube and upstream of the upstream end of the inner body.

[0539] EX83: An aerosol-generated article according to EX82, wherein the ventilation level of the second ventilation zone is greater than the ventilation level of the first ventilation zone.

[0540] EX84: An aerosol-generating article according to EX83, wherein the ventilation level of the second ventilation zone is at least 1.2 times that of the first ventilation zone.

[0541] EX85: An aerosol-generated article according to EX83 or EX84, wherein the ventilation level of the second ventilation zone is less than or equal to 3 times the ventilation level of the first ventilation zone.

[0542] EX86: An aerosol-generating article according to any one of EX82 to EX85, wherein the first ventilation zone has a ventilation level of at least 10%.

[0543] EX87: An aerosol-generating article according to any one of EX82 to EX86, wherein the first ventilation zone has a ventilation level of less than or equal to 25%.

[0544] EX88: An aerosol-generating article according to any one of EX82 to EX87, wherein the second ventilation zone has a ventilation level of at least 25%.

[0545] EX89: An aerosol-generating article according to any one of EX82 to EX88, wherein the second ventilation zone has a ventilation level of less than or equal to 40%.

[0546] EX90: An aerosol-generated article according to any one of EX82 to EX89, wherein the suction resistance through the first ventilation zone is greater than the suction resistance through the second ventilation zone.

[0547] EX91: An aerosol-generating article according to any one of EX82 to EX90, wherein the first ventilation zone includes a plurality of orifices, and the second ventilation zone includes a plurality of orifices, the total opening area of ​​the plurality of orifices in the second ventilation zone being greater than the total opening area of ​​the plurality of orifices in the first ventilation zone.

[0548] EX92: An aerosol-generating article according to any one of EX82 to EX91, wherein the outer tube of the air guiding element or cooling element is formed by a first tubular segment and a second tubular segment located upstream of the first tubular segment, wherein the first ventilation zone is configured to pass through the first tubular segment, and wherein the second ventilation zone is configured to pass through the second tubular segment.

[0549] EX93: An aerosol generating article according to any one of EX66 to EX92, wherein the air guiding element or cooling element is configured such that substantially all air entering the inner channel during use of the aerosol generating article passes through the upstream end of the inner channel.

[0550] EX94: An aerosol generating article according to any one of EX66 to EX93, further comprising a filter tip segment element located at the downstream end of the aerosol generating article. Attached Figure Description

[0551] The invention will be further described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0552] Figure 1 A schematic side cross-sectional view of the aerosol-generated article according to the present invention is shown;

[0553] Figure 2 A schematic cross-sectional view of an air guiding element for an aerosol generation article according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0554] Figure 3a A schematic cross-sectional view of an air guiding element for an aerosol generation article according to another embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0555] Figure 3b It shows the location Figure 3a A schematic cross-sectional view of the components of the inner body within the air guiding element shown;

[0556] Figure 4a A schematic cross-sectional view of an air guiding element for an aerosol generation article according to another embodiment of the present invention is shown; and

[0557] Figure 4b It shows Figure 4a The cross-sectional perspective view of the air guiding element shown. Detailed Implementation

[0558] Figure 1 An aerosol generating article 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. The aerosol generating article 1 is substantially cylindrical and has an overall length of 45 mm and an outer diameter of 7.1 mm.

[0559] The aerosol generating product 1 includes an aerosol generating matrix strip 12, a downstream section 14, and an upstream section 16.

[0560] The aerosol generating matrix 12 has a length of 12 mm.

[0561] The downstream section 14 is located downstream of the aerosol generating matrix 12. The downstream end of the downstream section 14 corresponds to the downstream end of the aerosol generating article 1. The downstream section has a length of 28 mm.

[0562] The downstream section 14 includes air guiding elements 30, 31, and 32 and a mouthpiece element 18. Air guiding elements 30, 31, and 32 are located immediately downstream of the aerosol generating matrix 12. The upstream ends of air guiding elements 30, 31, and 32 are adjacent to the downstream ends of the aerosol generating matrix 12. Air guiding elements 30, 31, and 32 may be referred to as cooling elements 30, 31, and 32. The air guiding elements have a length of 21 mm.

[0563] Different embodiments of air guiding elements 30, 31, and 32 Figure 2 , 3a The features common to all such embodiments are shown in 3b, 4a, and 4b. The features common to all such embodiments will be described below.

[0564] like Figure 1 As shown, air guiding elements 30, 31, and 32 are hollow tubular elements. Each air guiding element 30, 31, and 32 includes an outer tube 22, 221, which is a hollow tube, and an inner body 24, 241 located within the outer tube 22, 221. The central axes of the outer tube 22, 221 and the inner bodies 24, 241 are parallel to each other and aligned. The inner bodies 24, 241 are configured to be held within the outer tube 22, 221.

[0565] Figure 1 The outer tube 22 shown is a single tube. In some other instances, the outer tube 22 may include multiple tubular segments arranged longitudinally end-to-end, such as two tubular segments (an upstream tubular segment and a downstream tubular segment). In such instances, the upstream tubular segment may be empty, and the inner body may be located within the downstream tubular segment.

[0566] like Figure 2 , 3a As shown in 4a and 4b, the inner bodies 24 and 241 are also hollow and extend between an open upstream end 25a and a downstream end 25b. The inner bodies 24 and 241 include central portions 40 and 41 and two extensions 50 and 51 that contact the inner surfaces of the outer tubes 22 and 221. The central portions 40 and 41 are substantially cylindrical, with the extensions 50 and 51 extending parallel to each other from either side of the central portions 40 and 41. Each extension 50 and 51 has a proximal end 50a and 51a connected to the central portion 40 and 41, and a distal end 50b and 51b engaging the inner surfaces of the outer tubes 22 and 221. The extensions 50 and 51 act as retaining devices engaged with the outer tubes to hold the inner bodies 24 and 241 in a preferred central position within the outer tubes 22 and 221. The extensions 50 and 51 extend along the entire length of the inner bodies 24 and 241. The lengths of each extension 50, 51 match the lengths of the inner bodies 24, 241 and their central portions 40, 41.

[0567] Inner bodies 24, 241 define an inner channel 26 extending longitudinally from an upstream end 25a to a downstream end 25b of the inner bodies 24, 241. Both central portions 40, 41 and extension portions 50, 51 are hollow and contribute to defining the inner channel 26 within the inner bodies 24, 241. The inner channel 26 is uninterrupted and unobstructed. One or more peripheral channels 28 surround the inner channel 26, defining the inner bodies 24, 241 between the inner bodies 24, 241 and the outer tubes 22, 221, and extending longitudinally from the upstream end 25a to the downstream end 25b of the inner bodies 24, 241. These peripheral channels 28 are also uninterrupted and unobstructed.

[0568] The inner bodies 24 and 241 are shorter than the outer tubes 22 and 221. The lengths of the outer tubes 22 and 221 define the lengths of the air guiding elements 30, 31, and 32. The inner bodies 24 and 241 have a length of 10 mm. The outer tubes 22 and 221 have a length of 21 mm. The upstream end 25a of the inner bodies 24 and 241 is longitudinally offset relative to the upstream end 27a of the outer tubes 22 and 221. The downstream end 25b of the inner bodies 24 and 241 is longitudinally aligned with the downstream end 27b of the outer tubes 22 and 221. Therefore, the longitudinal distance between the upstream end 25a of the inner bodies 24 and 241 and the upstream end 27a of the outer tubes 22 and 221 is 11 mm. This offset provides a cavity 29 within the outer tubes 22 and 221 and immediately downstream of the aerosol generating matrix 12 and immediately upstream of the inner bodies 24 and 241. The effective length of the cavity 29 is 11 mm.

[0569] The maximum external width or diameter D of the central portions 40, 41 of the inner bodies 24, 241 of the inner channel 26 is 3.7 mm. The maximum width of the inner bodies 24, 241 substantially corresponds to the internal diameter of the outer tubes 22, 221. This maximum width can be measured from the distal ends 50b, 51b of the first extension portions 50, 51 to the distal ends 50b, 51b of the second extension portions 50, 51.

[0570] Each extension 50, 51 has a substantially constant thickness. The ratio of the thickness of each extension 50, 51 to the width of the central portion 40, 41 is less than or equal to 0.5.

[0571] The aerosol generating article 1 includes a ventilation zone 15 located along the downstream section 14. The distance between the ventilation zone 15 and the downstream end of the downstream section 14 (or the downstream end of the aerosol generating article 1) is 24 mm. The distance between the ventilation zone 15 and the downstream end of the aerosol generating matrix 12 is 4 mm. The distance between the ventilation zone 15 and the upstream end of the aerosol generating matrix 12 is 16 mm.

[0572] like Figure 1 As shown, ventilation zone 15 is located along the air guiding elements 30, 31, and 32. Ventilation zone 15 includes a row of circumferential perforations. The perforations extend through the circumferential wall of the outer tube 22 of the air guiding elements 30, 31, and 32. In use, the perforations allow air to flow from the outside of the aerosol generating article 1 into the air guiding elements 30, 31, and 32, particularly into cavity 29. The perforations also extend through any packaging material surrounding the air guiding elements 30, 31, and 32.

[0573] The mouthpiece element 18 is located immediately downstream of the air guiding elements 30, 31, and 32. The upstream end of the mouthpiece element 18 is adjacent to the downstream end of the air guiding elements 30, 31, and 32. The downstream end of the mouthpiece element 18 corresponds to the downstream end of the aerosol generating article 1. The mouthpiece element 18 has a length of 7 mm. The mouthpiece element 18 is a cylindrical filter segment of a low-density cellulose acetate tow defined by a packaging material (not shown).

[0574] The aerosol generating article 1 includes an upstream section 16. The upstream section 16 is located upstream of the aerosol generating matrix 12. The upstream end of the upstream section 16 corresponds to the upstream end of the aerosol generating article 1. The upstream section 16 has a length of 5 mm.

[0575] The upstream section 16 includes an upstream element 13. The upstream element 13 is located immediately upstream of the aerosol generating matrix 12. The downstream end of the upstream element 13 is adjacent to the upstream end of the aerosol generating matrix 12. The upstream end of the upstream element 13 corresponds to the upstream end of the aerosol generating article 1. The upstream element 13 has a length of 5 mm. The upstream element 13 is a cylindrical cellulose acetate rod defined by a packaging material (not shown).

[0576] exist Figure 2 In the air guiding element 30 shown, the cross-sectional shape of the inner body 24 forms a closed structure. Therefore, air and aerosol traveling through the inner channel 26 can only enter and exit via the open upstream end 25a and downstream end 25b. In such an embodiment, the inner body 24 is formed from a single body or component. The proximal end 50a of each extension 50 is open to provide fluid communication between the interior of the extension 50 and the central portion 40. The distal end 50b of each extension 50 is closed.

[0577] Figure 3a and 4a A cross-section of another embodiment of the air guide elements 31, 32 is shown. Air guide elements 31, 32 and... Figure 2 The difference in the air guiding element 30 shown is that the inner body 241 is formed by two parts 241a and 241b.

[0578] like Figure 3bAs shown, each component 241a, 241b is formed from a sheet of material deformed to have a semi-circular central protrusion 242 and two curved flanges 243 on each longitudinal side (either side) of the semi-circular protrusion 242. The curved flanges 243 are formed by folding or bending the edges of the sheet of components 241a, 241b in the same direction as the central protrusion 242. Components 241a, 241b of the inner body 241 are inserted into the outer tubes 22, 221 in opposing orientations and parallel to each other (both longitudinally and laterally) to form an inner body 241 with a cross-sectional shape similar to that of the inner body 24 of the air guiding element 30. The central protrusions of the opposing components 241a, 241b cooperate with each other to form a substantially tubular central portion 41 of the inner body 241. Other portions (in other words, non-protruding portions) cooperate with each other to form two extensions 51 of the inner body 241. The inner channel 26 is defined between the two parts 241a and 241b, and within the central portion 41 and the two extension portions 51.

[0579] The distal end 51b of the extension 51 is open. The flanges 243 of components 241a and 241b cooperate and engage with the inner surfaces of the outer tubes 22 and 221. This engagement effectively forms a seal at each flange, preventing air and aerosol traveling within the inner channel 26 from leaving the inner body 241 via the open distal end 51b of the extension 51 and entering the peripheral channel 48. Each flange 243 can adhere to the inner surface of the outer tubes 22 and 221.

[0580] Figure 4a and 4b The embodiment of the air guiding element 32 shown is similar to Figure 3a The difference in the air guiding element 31 shown is that the aerosol generating article includes two additional ventilation zones 60 extending along the air guiding element 32. The ventilation zones 60 extend longitudinally along the length of the outer tube 221. The length of the ventilation zones 60 corresponds to the length of the inner body 241. Therefore, each ventilation zone 60 spans 10 mm along the air guiding element 32 from the upstream end 25a to the downstream end 25b of the inner body 241.

[0581] Each ventilation zone 60 is aligned with the distal end 51b of each extension 51. Each ventilation zone 60 is configured to establish fluid communication between the exterior and interior channels 26 of the air guiding element 32 via the open distal end 51b of the extension 51. Figure 4a The discontinuous arrows shown indicate the external air that can enter the inner passage 26 via the ventilation zone 60.

[0582] like Figure 4a and 4bAs shown, each ventilation zone 60 includes a perforated line 61 extending through the wall of the outer tube 221 and any packaging (not shown) defining the outer tube 221.

[0583] The specific embodiments and examples described above illustrate, but do not limit, the present invention. It should be understood that other embodiments of the present invention may arise, and the specific embodiments and examples described herein are not exhaustive.

[0584] The aerosol generating article of the specific embodiments described above may further include a receptor element arranged longitudinally within the aerosol generating matrix. The receptor may be centrally positioned within the aerosol generating matrix and may extend along the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generating article. The receptor element may be as described in any of the descriptions relating to receptor elements or receptors within this disclosure.

[0585] For the purposes of this specification and the appended claims, unless otherwise indicated, all figures representing quantities, quantities, percentages, etc., shall be understood to be modified by the term "about" in all cases. Thus, in this context, the figure A is understood to be A ± 10% of A. In this context, the figure A may be considered to include a value within the general standard error for the measurement of the property modified by the figure A. In certain instances used in the appended claims, the figure A may deviate from the percentages listed above, provided that the amount of deviation from A does not materially affect the essential and novel features of the claimed invention. Furthermore, all ranges include the disclosed maximum and minimum points, and include any intermediate ranges therein, which may or may not be specifically listed herein.

Claims

1. An air guiding element for aerosol-generating articles, the air guiding element comprising: outer tube; The inner body is located inside the outer tube; The inner channel is defined within the inner body. The inner body includes a central portion and at least two extending portions that contact the inner surface of the outer tube. The central portion of the inner body and at least two extending portions of the inner body both define the inner channel. The inner channel described therein is essentially empty. Each of the at least two extensions has a substantially constant thickness. The ratio of the thickness of each extension portion to the width of the central portion is less than or equal to 0.

5.

2. The air guiding element according to claim 1, wherein the ratio of the thickness of each extension to the width of the central portion is less than or equal to 0.

25.

3. The air guiding element according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the central portion of the inner body is substantially tubular, and each extension is substantially planar.

4. The air guiding element according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the distal end of each extension is closed.

5. The air guiding element according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the distal end of each extension is open.

6. The air guiding element of claim 5, wherein each extension includes at least one sealing flange located at the distal end and configured to engage with the inner surface of the outer tube.

7. The air guiding element according to claim 5 or 6, further comprising a ventilation zone extending longitudinally along the outer tube, wherein the ventilation zone is configured to establish fluid communication between the exterior of the air guiding element and the inner channel via a distal end of one of the extensions.

8. The air guiding element according to any one of the preceding claims further includes one or more peripheral channels defined by the outer tube and the inner body.

9. The air guiding element according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the length of the inner body is less than or equal to 80% of the length of the air guiding element.

10. The air guiding element according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the upstream end of the inner body is positioned away from the upstream end of the air guiding element or the outer tube.

11. The air guiding element according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, in the same transverse plane, the inner channel has a cross-sectional area that is at least 20% of the cross-sectional area of ​​the air guiding element.

12. The air guiding element according to any one of the preceding claims further includes a ventilation zone at a location along the outer tube.

13. The air guiding element of claim 12, wherein the ventilation zone is located upstream of the upstream end of the inner body.

14. An aerosol generating article comprising an aerosol generating matrix and an air guiding element according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the air guiding element is a cooling element located downstream of the aerosol generating matrix.

15. An aerosol generation system, the aerosol generation system comprising: The aerosol-generating article according to claim 14; as well as An aerosol generating apparatus configured to heat the aerosol generating matrix of the aerosol generating product.

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