Aerosol-generating article

Abstract

An aerosol-generating article (100) for use with an aerosol-generating device (6000) is provided. The aerosol-generating article (100) comprises a first rod (200), a second rod (400) and an aerosol-generating substrate rod (300) comprising an aerosol-generating substrate (345). The first rod (200) is positioned upstream of the aerosol-generating substrate rod (300) and the second rod (400) is positioned downstream of the aerosol-generating substrate rod (300). The thickness of the aerosol-generating article (100) is less than 50% of the length of the aerosol-generating article (100) and the thickness of the aerosol-generating article (100) is less than 50% of the width of the aerosol-generating article (100).

Description

[0001] This disclosure relates to an aerosol generating article comprising an aerosol generating matrix. This disclosure also relates to an aerosol generating apparatus for receiving the aerosol generating article.

[0002] A typical aerosol-generating article can resemble a regular cigarette. For example, such an aerosol-generating article can be substantially cylindrical and includes an aerosol-generating matrix and other components, such as a mouthpiece filter element and a cooling element, all arranged together in a strip and wrapped in cigarette paper. The dimensions of a typical aerosol-generating article are generally similar to those of a regular cigarette.

[0003] However, a significant portion of the aerosol-generating matrix in these cylindrical aerosol-generating articles may not be adequately heated to form aerosols during use. This is undesirable because the insufficiently heated portion of the aerosol-generating matrix affects the manufacturing and transportation costs of the aerosol-generating article, but not the aerosol delivered to the end user. This is possible regardless of how the aerosol-generating matrix is ​​heated—for example, whether a resistance heater or an induction heater is used—and regardless of whether the aerosol-generating matrix is ​​heated internally or externally.

[0004] The purpose of this disclosure is to provide an aerosol generating article in which a significant portion of the aerosol generating matrix is ​​sufficiently heated during use to form an aerosol. Another purpose of this disclosure is to provide an aerosol generating article that can be manufactured relatively efficiently and inexpensively.

[0005] An aerosol generating article is provided for use with an aerosol generating apparatus. The aerosol generating article may include a first rod. The aerosol generating article may include a second rod. The aerosol generating article may include an aerosol generating matrix rod comprising an aerosol generating matrix. The first rod may be positioned upstream of the aerosol generating matrix rod. The second rod may be positioned downstream of the aerosol generating matrix rod. The thickness of the aerosol generating article may be less than 50% of the length of the aerosol generating article. The thickness of the aerosol generating article may be less than 50% of the width of the aerosol generating article.

[0006] According to this disclosure, an aerosol generating article is provided for use with an aerosol generating apparatus. The aerosol generating article includes a first rod, a second rod, and an aerosol generating matrix rod comprising an aerosol generating matrix. The first rod is positioned upstream of the aerosol generating matrix rod, and the second rod is positioned downstream of the aerosol generating matrix rod. The thickness of the aerosol generating article is less than 50% of its length, and the thickness of the aerosol generating article is less than 50% of its width.

[0007] Advantageously, the aerosol-generating articles are assembled from pre-formed rods (e.g., a first rod, a second rod, and an aerosol-generating matrix rod), so that each rod can be manufactured individually and then combined in a variety of different combinations to form a variety of different aerosol-generating articles that provide different smoking experiences. This also allows the manufacture of aerosol-generating articles with minimal modifications to the conventional cigarette manufacturing process of combining multiple elements to form a cigarette.

[0008] Advantageously, the first and second rods are positioned upstream and downstream of the aerosol generating matrix rod, respectively, and thus protect the ends of the aerosol generating matrix rod. For example, the first and second rods can prevent accidental ignition of the ends of the aerosol generating matrix rod.

[0009] Aerosol generating articles having a thickness less than 50% of the length and width of the aerosol generating article can provide generally flat and thin aerosol generating articles. Advantageously, this allows for a small temperature gradient between the thickness of the aerosol generating article and the aerosol generating matrix rod during heating, thereby allowing a larger proportion of the aerosol generating matrix rod to be heated to the temperature for releasing aerosols, while minimizing the risk of burning the hottest part of the aerosol generating matrix rod closest to the heating element. Advantageously, this also reduces the time required to adequately heat the aerosol generating matrix rod to release aerosols. Such articles have a large base area relative to the volume of the article. Advantageously, the larger base area can provide a larger surface area for heating by the planar heater of the aerosol generating apparatus.

[0010] The aerosol-generating article can be a planar aerosol-generating article having a base defined by a length extending in the x direction, a width extending in the y direction, and a thickness extending in the z direction.

[0011] An aerosol-generating article may include a substantially planar upper surface defined by a length extending in the x-direction and a width extending in the y-direction, and a substantially planar lower surface defined by the same length extending in the x-direction and width extending in the y-direction. The substantially planar upper surface and the substantially planar lower surface may be vertically spaced apart from each other by a thickness defined in the z-direction. The substantially planar upper surface and the substantially planar lower surface may be parallel to each other.

[0012] The aerosol generating article may have an airflow path extending through it. The aerosol generating article may have an airflow path defined as passing through it in the x / y plane from one side of the aerosol generating article to the other. Preferably, the aerosol generating article has a suction resistance (RTD) of less than 20 mmH2O, for example, less than 10 mmH2O, in the direction of the airflow path. Preferably, the aerosol generating article has an RTD of less than 20 mmH2O, for example, less than 10 mmH2O, in at least one direction in the x / y plane of the aerosol generating article. Advantageously, an aerosol generating article with a low-resistance airflow path allows for excellent airflow management and allows aerosols to be extracted from the aerosol generating article and directed to the user more efficiently.

[0013] Unless otherwise specified, draw resistance (RTD) is measured according to ISO 6565-2015. RTD refers to the pressure required to force air through the entire length of a component, such as an aerosol-generating article. The terms “pressure drop” or “draw resistance” for a component or article can also refer to “resistance to draw”. Such terms generally refer to measurements performed according to ISO 6565-2015, and are typically conducted at a temperature of about 22 degrees Celsius, a pressure of about 101 kPa (about 760 Torr), and a relative humidity of about 60%, at a volumetric flow rate of about 17.5 mL / s at the output or downstream end of the measured component.

[0014] The airflow channel may be defined between a substantially planar upper surface and a substantially planar lower surface. The thickness of the aerosol-generating article may be less than 5 mm, for example, between 1.5 mm and 5 mm, between 1.5 mm and 4 mm, between 1.5 mm and 3 mm, or between 1.5 mm and 2 mm. One or both of the substantially planar upper and lower surfaces may comprise an aerosol-generating matrix. The aerosol-generating article may comprise an upper layer and a lower layer, the upper layer forming a substantially planar upper surface and the lower layer forming a substantially planar lower surface. At least one of the upper and lower layers may comprise or be composed of an aerosol-generating matrix.

[0015] The aerosol-generating article may include a first planar layer, a second planar layer, and a corrugated layer disposed between the first and second planar layers. At least one of the first planar layer, the second planar layer, and the corrugated layer may include or be composed of an aerosol-generating matrix. The corrugated layer may be an aerosol-generating matrix rod.

[0016] The use of corrugated structures in aerosol-generated articles advantageously allows for the production of aerosol-generated articles with extremely low RTD while still being rigid enough for user handling. Furthermore, the use of corrugated structures allows for the production of low-density, low-RTD aerosol-generated articles using high-speed production methods similar to those used for producing corrugated cardboard.

[0017] The aerosol generating article may include a first planar outer surface, a second planar outer surface, a cavity, and a frame. The frame may be positioned between the first and second planar outer surfaces. The frame may at least partially define the cavity. The aerosol generating article may include an air inlet and an air outlet, and an airflow passage extending through the cavity between the air inlet and the air outlet.

[0018] Preferably, the aerosol generating matrix rod can be positioned between the outer surface of the first plane and the outer surface of the second plane.

[0019] The frame may include a peripheral wall that at least partially defines or surrounds the cavity. The frame may also include a peripheral wall that fully defines or surrounds the cavity. Advantageously, the frame can allow aerosol-generated articles to be relatively thin while maintaining structural rigidity.

[0020] The aerosol-generating article may include a first outer plane layer and a second outer plane layer, wherein the first outer plane layer forms a first outer plane surface and the second outer plane layer forms a second outer plane surface. Optionally, at least one of the first outer plane layer, the second outer plane layer, and the frame may include or be composed of an aerosol-generating matrix.

[0021] The aerosol generating matrix rod can be positioned inside the cavity.

[0022] The corrugated layer can be positioned inside the cavity.

[0023] The frame can be a planar frame.

[0024] The frame may have a thickness between 50% and 95% of the thickness of the aerosol-generating article. The frame may have a thickness between 60% and 95% of the thickness of the aerosol-generating article. The frame may have a thickness between 70% and 95% of the thickness of the aerosol-generating article. The frame may have a thickness between 80% and 95% of the thickness of the aerosol-generating article.

[0025] The frame may have a thickness between 1 mm and 5.5 mm. Preferably, the frame may have a thickness between 1 mm and 5 mm.

[0026] The frame may be made of or include biodegradable materials. The frame may be made entirely of biodegradable materials.

[0027] The frame may be made of or comprise cellulose material. Cellulose material may include cellulose material sheets. Cellulose material may include cellulose fibers. Cellulose material may be paper, paperboard, or cardboard. The frame may be made of or comprise plant material such as tobacco. The frame may be made entirely of cellulose material.

[0028] The frame can be a single, integral component. Alternatively, the frame can comprise two or more layers. That is, the frame can have a laminated structure.

[0029] The aerosol generating matrix rod and one or both of the first and second rods can be axially aligned in the longitudinal direction, for example, in the x-direction.

[0030] One or both of the first and second rods can be positioned adjacent to the aerosol generating matrix rod. That is, no element can be positioned between the first rod and the aerosol generating matrix rod, or no element can be positioned between the second rod and the aerosol generating matrix rod.

[0031] One or both of the first and second rods may be spaced apart from the aerosol generating matrix rod. One or both of the first and second rods may be positioned adjacent to and spaced apart from the aerosol generating matrix rod. For example, a cavity may be located between the first rod and the aerosol generating matrix rod, and a cavity may be located between the second rod and the aerosol generating matrix rod. One or both of the first and second rods may be spaced apart from the aerosol generating matrix rod by more than or equal to 2 mm. One or both of the first and second rods may be spaced apart from the aerosol generating matrix rod by less than or equal to 5 mm.

[0032] One or both of the first and second rods may be adjacent to the aerosol generation matrix rod. The first rod may be adjacent to the upstream end of the aerosol generation matrix rod. For example, the downstream end of the first rod may be adjacent to the upstream end of the aerosol generation matrix rod. The second rod may be adjacent to the downstream end of the aerosol generation matrix rod. For example, the upstream end of the second rod may be adjacent to the downstream end of the aerosol generation matrix rod.

[0033] The first rod can be positioned at the upstream end of the aerosol-generating article. The first rod can define or form the upstream end wall of the aerosol-generating article. The second rod can be positioned at the downstream end of the aerosol-generating article. The second rod can define or form the downstream end wall of the aerosol-generating article.

[0034] The first rod can define the inlet of the aerosol-generating article. The first rod may include an upstream opening and a downstream opening. The upstream opening can define the inlet of the aerosol-generating article. Therefore, the first rod can be referred to as the inlet rod or the front rod.

[0035] The second rod can define the outlet of the aerosol-generated article. The second rod may include an upstream opening and a downstream opening. The downstream opening can define the outlet of the aerosol-generated article. Therefore, the second rod can be referred to as an outlet rod or an outlet rod.

[0036] The upstream opening of one or both of the first and second rods may be aligned with the radial central axis of the aerosol-generating article. The downstream opening of one or both of the first and second rods may also be aligned with the radial central axis of the aerosol-generating article. For example, the radial central axis of the aerosol-generating article may extend through one or both of the upstream and downstream openings. The upstream opening of one or both of the first and second rods may have a radial central axis aligned with the radial central axis of the aerosol-generating article. The downstream opening of one or both of the first and second rods may have a radial central axis aligned with the radial central axis of the aerosol-generating article.

[0037] One or both of the first and second rods may include chambers. The chamber of the first rod (if any) may be referred to as the first rod chamber. The chamber of the second rod (if any) may be referred to as the second rod chamber. The chambers, or each chamber, may be substantially empty.

[0038] The chamber may extend between the upstream and downstream openings of the respective rods. One or both of the first and second rods may include an airflow path extending through the chamber of the respective rod between the upstream and downstream openings. For example, the first rod may include an airflow path extending through the chamber of the first rod between its upstream and downstream openings. Similarly, the second rod may include an airflow path extending through the chamber of the second rod between its upstream and downstream openings.

[0039] One or both of the first and second rods may include a fragrance-releasing element positioned within a respective chamber. For example, the first rod may include a fragrance-releasing element positioned within a chamber of the first rod. As another example, the second rod may include a fragrance-releasing element positioned together with a chamber of the second rod.

[0040] Each flavoring element may include one or more flavoring agents, be impregnated with one or more flavoring agents, or be soaked in one or more flavoring agents. One or more flavoring agents may contain one or more of the following: one or more essential oils, such as eugenol, peppermint oil, and spearmint oil; one or both of menthol and eugenol; one or both of anethole and linalool; and herbal materials. Suitable herbal materials include herb leaves or other herbal materials derived from herbs, including but not limited to peppermint (such as peppermint and spearmint), lemon balm, basil, cinnamon, lemon basil, chives, coriander, lavender, sage, tea, thyme, and fennel. One or more flavoring agents may include tobacco materials. One or more flavoring agents may include one or more of sorbitol and erythritol. The flavoring element positioned in the first chamber may be different from the flavoring element positioned in the second chamber.

[0041] The first rod chamber may have a width greater than the width of one or both of the upstream opening and the downstream opening of the first rod. The first rod chamber may have a width of at least 80% or at least 90% of the width of the first rod. The first rod chamber may have a width between 1 mm and 7 mm. Preferably, the first rod chamber may have a width between 2 mm and 6 mm. More preferably, the first rod chamber may have a width of about 4 mm.

[0042] The second rod chamber may have a width greater than the width of one or both of the upstream opening and the downstream opening of the second rod. The second rod chamber may have a width of at least 80% or at least 90% of the width of the second rod. The second rod chamber may have a width between 1 mm and 7 mm. Preferably, the second rod chamber may have a width between 2 mm and 6 mm. More preferably, the second rod chamber may have a width of about 4 mm.

[0043] The first rod chamber may have a thickness greater than one or both of the thickness of the upstream opening and the downstream opening of the first rod. The first rod chamber may have a thickness of at least 80% or at least 90% of the thickness of the first rod. The first rod chamber may have a thickness between 0.5 mm and 3 mm. Preferably, the first rod chamber may have a thickness between 0.5 mm and 2 mm. More preferably, the first rod chamber may have a thickness of about 1 mm.

[0044] The second rod chamber may have a thickness greater than the thickness of one or both of the upstream opening and the downstream opening of the second rod. The second rod chamber may have a thickness of at least 80% or at least 90% of the thickness of the second rod. The second rod chamber may have a thickness between 0.5 mm and 3 mm. Preferably, the second rod chamber may have a thickness between 0.5 mm and 2 mm. More preferably, the second rod chamber may have a thickness of about 1 mm.

[0045] The first rod may include one or more walls extending between an upstream end and a downstream end of the first rod. The one or more walls may enclose or at least partially enclose the chamber of the first rod. The one or more walls may have a thickness between 0.5 mm and 2 mm. Preferably, the one or more walls may have a thickness between 0.5 mm and 1 mm.

[0046] The first rod may have an upstream end wall. The upstream end wall may define an upstream opening of the first rod. The first rod may have a downstream end wall. The downstream end wall may define a downstream opening of the first rod.

[0047] The second rod may include one or more walls extending between its upstream and downstream ends. The one or more walls may enclose or at least partially enclose the chamber of the second rod. The one or more walls may have a thickness between 0.5 mm and 2 mm. Preferably, the one or more walls may have a thickness between 0.5 mm and 1 mm.

[0048] The second rod may have an upstream end wall. The upstream end wall may define an upstream opening of the second rod. The second rod may also have a downstream end wall. The downstream end wall may define a downstream opening of the second rod.

[0049] The first rod may include a first rod body. The first rod body may define a first rod chamber. A first flap may extend from the first rod body, and a second flap may extend from the first rod body. The first and second flaps may overlap the downstream end of the first rod body to define a downstream opening. For example, the first flap may have a first notch, and the second flap may have a second notch. The first and second notches of the first rod may together form the downstream opening of the first rod. The first and second flaps may form the downstream end wall of the first rod.

[0050] The second rod may include a second rod body. The second rod body may define a second rod chamber. A first flap may extend from the second rod body, and a second flap may extend from the second rod body. The first and second flaps may overlap the upstream end of the second rod body to define an upstream opening. For example, the first flap may have a first notch, and the second flap may have a second notch. The first and second notches of the second rod may together form the upstream opening of the second rod. The first and second flaps may form the upstream end wall of the second rod.

[0051] One or both of the first and second rods may be hollow. One or both of the first and second rods may include a lumen or hole extending from the upstream end to the downstream end of the respective rod. One or both of the first and second rods may be in the form of a tube, such as a rectangular tube. One or both of the first and second rods may include a folded sheet of material, preferably a cellulose material sheet, such as cardboard. The material sheet may include one or more weak lines. The one or more weak lines may include perforated weak lines or curled weak lines. The material sheet may be folded into a tube around one or more weak lines.

[0052] Preferably, the material sheet may include at least three weak lines, wherein each of the at least three weak lines forms a longitudinally extending corner of the corresponding rod. The free ends of the material sheet may be joined together to form another longitudinally extending corner of the corresponding rod.

[0053] One or both of the first and second rods can be in the form of a helical tube. For example, one or both of the first and second rods can be made of a sheet of material, preferably a cellulose material sheet, which has been wound into an overlapping helix to form a tube.

[0054] One or both of the first and second bars may be formed from two or more geometrically identical elements. The two or more geometrically identical elements may be bonded together, for example, with an adhesive. For instance, the first bar may include a first geometrically identical element and a second geometrically identical element, each of which has an "L" shape (e.g., an "L" cross-sectional shape), or may be an "L" beam. Similarly, the second bar may include a first geometrically identical element and a second geometrically identical element, each of which has an "L" shape (e.g., an "L" cross-sectional shape), or may be an "L" beam. Each of the two or more geometrically identical elements may extend the entire length of the corresponding bar. Each of the two or more geometrically identical elements may extend the entire thickness of the corresponding bar.

[0055] One or both of the first and second rods may include a first length portion having a width and a second length portion having a width. The width of the first length portion may be greater than the width of the second length portion, thereby forming at least one shoulder at a position between the first and second length portions. Preferably, the at least one shoulder includes a first shoulder on a first lateral side of the corresponding rod and a second shoulder on a second lateral side of the corresponding rod.

[0056] The first length portion of the first rod can be the upstream length portion, and the second length portion of the first rod can be the downstream length portion. The first length portion of the second rod can be the downstream length portion, and the second length portion of the second rod can be the upstream length portion.

[0057] One or both of the first and second rods may have a laminated or layered structure. One or both of the first and second rods may comprise two or more layers stacked or arranged in the thickness direction. One or both of the first and second rods may comprise a first layer, a second layer, and a third layer, or consist of a first layer, a second layer, and a third layer. The second layer may be positioned between the first and second layers. An upstream opening of the corresponding rod may extend through the second layer. A downstream opening of the corresponding rod may extend through the second layer. The first, second, and third layers may be bonded together. Each layer may comprise or be formed from a sheet of material, preferably a cellulose material sheet.

[0058] One or both of the first and second rods may comprise a sheet of material that has been corrugated, rolled, pleated, gathered, woven, or folded into an element defining a plurality of longitudinally extending channels. Preferably, the material sheet has been corrugated or rolled. The material sheet may comprise paper, cardboard, or a polymer (e.g., polylactic acid) or any other cellulose-based, paper-based, or bioplastic-based material, or formed from paper, cardboard, or a polymer (e.g., polylactic acid) or any other cellulose-based, paper-based, or bioplastic-based material. Preferably, the material sheet is paper or cardboard. The plurality of longitudinally extending channels may extend the entire length of the respective rod. The plurality of longitudinally extending channels may extend from the upstream end to the downstream end of the respective rod. The plurality of longitudinally extending channels may be uniformly or randomly distributed across the cross-section of the respective rod.

[0059] One or both of the first and second sticks can be substantially tobacco-free or nicotine-free.

[0060] One or both of the first and second rods may include biodegradable material. One or both of the first and second rods may include at least 80% by weight of biodegradable material. One or both of the first and second rods may include at least 90% by weight of biodegradable material. One or both of the first and second rods may include at least 95% by weight of biodegradable material.

[0061] One or both of the first and second rods may comprise or be composed of cellulose material, such as paper or cardboard. One or both of the first and second rods may comprise at least 80% by weight of cellulose material, such as paper or cardboard. One or both of the first and second rods may comprise at least 90% by weight of cellulose material, such as paper or cardboard. One or both of the first and second rods may comprise at least 95% by weight of cellulose material, such as paper or cardboard. One or both of the first and second rods may comprise at least 99% by weight of cellulose material, such as paper or cardboard.

[0062] One or both of the first and second rods can be formed from a compressed material, such as particulate matter, powder, or pellets. The compressed material may include one or both of sorbitol and erythritol. Advantageously, forming rods from compressed material allows for the manufacture of complex three-dimensional shapes particularly suitable for the upstream and downstream rods. Furthermore, the compressed material is adaptable to depolymerize after a predefined time period, thereby improving the environmental friendliness of aerosol-generated articles. In addition, it allows flavor or aroma to be embedded within the rod's structure, which can improve the user experience. Furthermore, it allows for the inclusion of bittering agents to reduce the risk of accidental ingestion.

[0063] One or both of the first and second bars can be formed from molded pulp. One or both of the first and second bars can be formed by extrusion, lamination, injection molding, or additive manufacturing.

[0064] The ratio between the length of the first rod and the length of the aerosol-generated article can be greater than or equal to 0.05. The ratio between the length of the first rod and the length of the aerosol-generated article can be greater than or equal to 0.10. The ratio between the length of the first rod and the length of the aerosol-generated article can be greater than or equal to 0.20. The ratio between the length of the first rod and the length of the aerosol-generated article can be greater than or equal to 0.30.

[0065] The ratio between the length of the first rod and the length of the aerosol-generated article can be less than or equal to 0.40. The ratio between the length of the first rod and the length of the aerosol-generated article can be less than or equal to 0.30. The ratio between the length of the first rod and the length of the aerosol-generated article can be less than or equal to 0.20. The ratio between the length of the first rod and the length of the aerosol-generated article can be less than or equal to 0.10. The ratio between the length of the first rod and the length of the aerosol-generated article can be less than or equal to 0.05.

[0066] The ratio between the length of the first rod and the length of the aerosol-generating article can be between 0.05 and 0.40. The ratio between the length of the first rod and the length of the aerosol-generating article can be between 0.05 and 0.30. The ratio between the length of the first rod and the length of the aerosol-generating article can be between 0.05 and 0.20. The ratio between the length of the first rod and the length of the aerosol-generating article can be between 0.10 and 0.20.

[0067] The ratio between the length of the first rod and the length of the aerosol generating matrix rod can be greater than or equal to 0.15. The ratio between the length of the first rod and the length of the aerosol generating matrix rod can be greater than or equal to 0.20. The ratio between the length of the first rod and the length of the aerosol generating matrix rod can be greater than or equal to 0.30.

[0068] The ratio between the length of the first rod and the length of the aerosol generating matrix rod can be less than or equal to 0.50. The ratio between the length of the first rod and the length of the aerosol generating matrix rod can be less than or equal to approximately 0.45. The ratio between the length of the first rod and the length of the aerosol generating matrix rod can be less than or equal to approximately 0.40.

[0069] The ratio between the length of the first rod and the length of the aerosol generating matrix rod can be between 0.15 and 0.50. The ratio between the length of the first rod and the length of the aerosol generating matrix rod can be between 0.15 and 0.40. The ratio between the length of the first rod and the length of the aerosol generating matrix rod can be between 0.15 and 0.30.

[0070] The ratio between the length of the second rod and the length of the aerosol-generated article can be greater than or equal to 0.05. The ratio between the length of the second rod and the length of the aerosol-generated article can be greater than or equal to 0.10. The ratio between the length of the second rod and the length of the aerosol-generated article can be greater than or equal to 0.20. The ratio between the length of the second rod and the length of the aerosol-generated article can be greater than or equal to 0.30.

[0071] The ratio between the length of the second rod and the length of the aerosol-generating article may be less than or equal to 0.40. The ratio between the length of the second rod and the length of the aerosol-generating article may be less than or equal to 0.30. The ratio between the length of the second rod and the length of the aerosol-generating article may be less than or equal to 0.20. The ratio between the length of the second rod and the length of the aerosol-generating article may be less than or equal to 0.10. The ratio between the length of the second rod and the length of the aerosol-generating article may be less than or equal to 0.05.

[0072] The ratio between the length of the second rod and the length of the aerosol-generating article can be between 0.05 and 0.40. The ratio between the length of the second rod and the length of the aerosol-generating article can be between 0.05 and 0.30. The ratio between the length of the second rod and the length of the aerosol-generating article can be between 0.05 and 0.20. The ratio between the length of the second rod and the length of the aerosol-generating article can be between 0.10 and 0.20.

[0073] The ratio between the length of the second rod and the length of the aerosol generating matrix rod can be greater than or equal to 0.15. The ratio between the length of the second rod and the length of the aerosol generating matrix rod can be greater than or equal to 0.20. The ratio between the length of the second rod and the length of the aerosol generating matrix rod can be greater than or equal to 0.30.

[0074] The ratio between the length of the second rod and the length of the aerosol generating matrix rod can be less than or equal to 0.50. The ratio between the length of the second rod and the length of the aerosol generating matrix rod can be less than or equal to approximately 0.45. The ratio between the length of the second rod and the length of the aerosol generating matrix rod can be less than or equal to approximately 0.40.

[0075] The ratio between the length of the second rod and the length of the aerosol generating matrix rod can be between 0.15 and 0.50. The ratio between the length of the second rod and the length of the aerosol generating matrix rod can be between 0.15 and 0.40. The ratio between the length of the second rod and the length of the aerosol generating matrix rod can be between 0.15 and 0.30.

[0076] The aerosol generating article may include an aerosol cooling rod positioned between an aerosol generating matrix rod and a second rod. The aerosol cooling rod may be a hollow element. The aerosol cooling rod may be a tubular element, such as a rectangular tubular element. The aerosol cooling rod may be adjacent to the aerosol generating matrix rod. The aerosol cooling rod may be abutted against the aerosol generating matrix rod. The aerosol cooling rod may be adjacent to the second rod. The aerosol cooling rod may be abutted against the second rod.

[0077] Aerosol-generating articles may include a fragrance-releasing stick positioned between a first stick and an aerosol-generating matrix stick. Aerosol-generating articles may also include a fragrance-releasing stick positioned between a second stick and an aerosol-generating matrix stick.

[0078] The aerosol-generating article may include at least one support member. Two or more rods, including the first rod, the second rod, and the aerosol-generating matrix rod, may be physically connected together by at least one support member. The two or more rods may be directly bonded to at least one support member, for example, using an adhesive (such as guar gum or polyvinyl alcohol).

[0079] The first rod, the second rod, and at least one supporting member can form a frame. The frame can at least partially define the cavity. The aerosol generating matrix rod can be positioned within the cavity.

[0080] Preferably, at least one support member may include a first support member and a second support member.

[0081] The first and second support members can extend laterally along opposite sides of the aerosol-generating article. That is, the first and second support members can be spaced apart in the width direction of the aerosol-generating article. The first and second support members can extend laterally along opposite sides of the aerosol-generating matrix rod. Each of the first and second support members can extend for at least 80% of the length of the aerosol-generating matrix rod. Preferably, each of the first and second support members can extend for 100% of the length of the aerosol-generating matrix rod. The first and second support members can extend laterally along opposite sides of the aerosol-generating matrix.

[0082] The first support member can extend from the first rod to the second rod. The first support member can be connected to the first rod and the second rod. The second support member can extend from the first rod to the second rod. The second support member can be connected to the first rod and the second rod.

[0083] A first support member may extend from at least one shoulder (e.g., a first shoulder) of a first rod to at least one shoulder (e.g., a first shoulder) of a second rod. A second support member may extend from at least one shoulder (e.g., a second shoulder) of a first rod to at least one shoulder (e.g., a second shoulder) of a second rod. The first support member, the second support member, and the downstream length portion of the first rod may have a collective width equal to or less than the width of the upstream length portion of the first rod. The first support member, the second support member, and the upstream length portion of the second rod may have a collective width equal to or less than the width of the downstream length portion of the second rod.

[0084] At least one support member, or each of the at least one support member, may be elongated. For example, at least one support member, or each of the at least one support member, may have a length, a width, and a thickness. The length may be at least two, four, eight, or ten times the width or thickness.

[0085] At least one support member, or each of the at least one support member, may be in the form of a strip, beam, or band of material. At least one support member, or each of the at least one support member, may extend for at least 80% of the length of the aerosol-generated article. At least one support member, or each of the at least one support member, may extend for at least 90% of the length of the aerosol-generated article. At least one support member, or each of the at least one support member, may extend for 100% of the length of the aerosol-generated article.

[0086] At least one support member, or each of at least one support member, may comprise a biodegradable material. At least one support member, or each of at least one support member, may comprise at least 80% by weight of a biodegradable material. At least one support member, or each of at least one support member, may comprise at least 90% by weight of a biodegradable material. At least one support member, or each of at least one support member, may comprise at least 95% by weight of a biodegradable material.

[0087] At least one support member, or each of the at least one support member, may include or be composed of tobacco material, such as homogenized tobacco material. At least one support member, or each of the at least one support member, may include an aerosol forming agent as described herein with respect to an aerosol generating matrix. At least one support member, or each of the at least one support member, may include one or more flavoring agents as described herein with respect to an aerosol generating matrix.

[0088] At least one support member, or each of the at least one support member, may comprise or be composed of a cellulose material, such as paper or cardboard. At least one support member, or each of the at least one support member, may comprise at least 80% by weight of a cellulose material, such as paper or cardboard. At least one support member, or each of the at least one support member, may comprise at least 90% by weight of a cellulose material, such as paper or cardboard. At least one support member, or each of the at least one support member, may comprise at least 95% by weight of a cellulose material, such as paper or cardboard. At least one support member, or each of the at least one support member, may comprise at least 99% by weight of a cellulose material, such as paper or cardboard.

[0089] At least one support member, or each of at least one support member, may comprise or be composed of corrugated cardboard. Advantageously, the corrugated cardboard can provide thermal insulation. Therefore, the aerosol-generating article may lose less heat, which can improve aerosol generation efficiency. In addition, this may make the outer surface of the aerosol-generating article cooler, thereby allowing consumers to comfortably touch the aerosol-generating article.

[0090] At least one support member, or each of the at least one support member, may have a basis weight greater than or equal to 200 g / m². At least one support member, or each of the at least one support member, may have a basis weight greater than or equal to 300 g / m². At least one support member, or each of the at least one support member, may have a basis weight greater than or equal to 400 g / m². At least one support member, or each of the at least one support member, may comprise or be composed of a cellulose material, preferably cardboard.

[0091] At least one support member, or each of the at least one support member, may be formed from a compressed material, such as particulate matter, powder, or pellets. At least one support member, or each of the at least one support member, may be formed from molded pulp. At least one support member, or each of the at least one support member, may be formed by extrusion, lamination, injection molding, or additive manufacturing.

[0092] The aerosol generating article may include a main gas flow path extending from an upstream end of the aerosol generating article to a downstream end of the aerosol generating article. The main gas flow path may extend through a first rod, an aerosol generating matrix, and a second rod.

[0093] The aerosol generating article may include at least one auxiliary airflow path extending from an upstream end of the aerosol generating article to a downstream end of the aerosol generating article. The at least one auxiliary airflow path may extend through a first rod, at least one support member (e.g., a first support member or a second support member), and a second rod.

[0094] At least one auxiliary airflow path may include a first auxiliary airflow path extending through the first rod, the first support member, and the second rod. At least one auxiliary airflow path may include a second auxiliary airflow path extending through the first rod, the second support member, and the second rod.

[0095] For at least a portion of the length of the aerosol-generating article, the main gas flow path and at least one auxiliary gas flow path may be parallel. Therefore, for at least a portion of the length of the aerosol-generating article, the gas flow paths may be separate and distinct. For example, the main gas flow path and at least one auxiliary gas flow path may be parallel from the upstream end of the aerosol-generating article to the downstream end of the aerosol-generating matrix rod.

[0096] The main gas flow path and at least one auxiliary gas flow path can be merged downstream of the aerosol generation matrix rod. For example, the main gas flow path and at least one auxiliary gas flow path can be merged within a second rod.

[0097] The main airflow path and at least one auxiliary airflow path may merge upstream of the second rod. For example, the main airflow path and at least one auxiliary airflow path may merge within the aerosol cooling rod.

[0098] At least one support member, or each of at least one support member, may include a fragrance-releasing element. The fragrance-releasing element may be a thread or yarn. The fragrance-releasing element may be positioned within the secondary airflow path.

[0099] The aroma-releasing element may include one or more flavorings, be impregnated with one or more flavorings, or be infused in one or more flavorings. The one or more flavorings may contain one or more of the following: one or more essential oils, such as eugenol, peppermint oil, and spearmint oil; one or both of menthol and eugenol; one or both of anethole and linalool; and herbal materials. Suitable herbal materials include herb leaves or other herbal materials derived from herbs, including but not limited to peppermint (such as peppermint and spearmint), lemon balm, basil, cinnamon, lemon basil, chives, coriander, lavender, sage, tea, thyme, and fennel.

[0100] The aerosol generating matrix rod may include at least one support member. Preferably, a first support member and a second support member may extend laterally along opposite sides of the aerosol generating matrix. Advantageously, the first and second support members may provide resistance to the compression of one or both of the aerosol generating matrix rod and the aerosol generating article. This ensures the integrity of the airflow path through the aerosol generating article and helps to prevent air leakage through the sides of the aerosol generating article or the aerosol generating matrix rod. Additionally, the support members make forming the aerosol generating matrix rod easier and more convenient, thereby ensuring better alignment of the first rod, the second rod, and the aerosol generating matrix rod. Furthermore, the support elements can make the aerosol generating matrix rod particularly robust for high-speed manufacturing processes by providing additional stiffness.

[0101] Preferably, at least one support member, or each of at least one support member, may comprise one or more of tobacco material, aerosol forming agent, and flavoring agent. Advantageously, this allows the aerosol generating matrix stick to be configured to release volatile compounds during different periods of the smoking process. For example, the aerosol generating matrix may release volatile compounds during a first period of the smoking process, and at least one support member may release volatile compounds during a second period of the smoking process after the first period. This can provide an improved or unique user experience.

[0102] The aerosol generating matrix can extend almost the entire length of the aerosol generating matrix rod.

[0103] The aerosol generating matrix may occupy at least 95% of the cross-sectional area of ​​the aerosol generating matrix rod. The aerosol generating matrix may occupy at least 95% of the cross-sectional area of ​​the aerosol generating matrix rod. The aerosol generating matrix may occupy at least 98% of the cross-sectional area of ​​the aerosol generating matrix rod.

[0104] The aerosol generating matrix may have a mass greater than or equal to 70% of the mass of the aerosol generating matrix rod. The aerosol generating matrix may have a mass greater than or equal to 80% of the mass of the aerosol generating matrix rod. The aerosol generating matrix may have a mass greater than or equal to 90% of the mass of the aerosol generating matrix rod. The aerosol generating matrix may have a mass greater than or equal to 95% of the mass of the aerosol generating matrix rod.

[0105] The aerosol-generating matrix can have a mass of 50 mg or more. The aerosol-generating matrix can have a mass of 80 mg or more. The aerosol-generating matrix can have a mass of 110 mg or more. The aerosol-generating matrix can have a mass of 150 mg or more. The aerosol-generating matrix can have a mass of 170 mg or more. The aerosol-generating matrix can have a mass of 180 mg or more. The aerosol-generating matrix can have a mass of 200 mg or more. The aerosol-generating matrix can have a mass of 230 mg or more. The aerosol-generating matrix can have a mass of 250 mg or more. The aerosol-generating matrix can have a mass of 300 mg or more. The aerosol-generating matrix can have a mass of 400 mg or more.

[0106] The aerosol-generating matrix may have a mass of 500 mg or less. The aerosol-generating matrix may have a mass of 400 mg or less. The aerosol-generating matrix may have a mass of 300 mg or less. The aerosol-generating matrix may have a mass of 250 mg or less. The aerosol-generating matrix may have a mass of 230 mg or less. The aerosol-generating matrix may have a mass of 200 mg or less. The aerosol-generating matrix may have a mass of 180 mg or less. The aerosol-generating matrix may have a mass of 170 mg or less. The aerosol-generating matrix may have a mass of 150 mg or less. The aerosol-generating matrix may have a mass of 110 mg or less. The aerosol-generating matrix may have a mass of 80 mg or less. The aerosol-generating matrix may have a mass of 50 mg or less.

[0107] The aerosol generating matrix may have a mass between 50 mg and 500 mg. The aerosol generating matrix may have a mass between 80 mg and 500 mg. The aerosol generating matrix may have a mass between 80 mg and 400 mg. The aerosol generating matrix may have a mass between 80 mg and 300 mg. The aerosol generating matrix may have a mass between 80 mg and 250 mg. The aerosol generating matrix may have a mass between 80 mg and 200 mg. The aerosol generating matrix may have a mass between 80 mg and 150 mg. Preferably, the aerosol generating matrix may have a mass between 100 mg and 250 mg.

[0108] The aerosol generating matrix can have a bulk density greater than or equal to 0.05 mg / mm³. The aerosol generating matrix can have a bulk density greater than or equal to 0.1 mg / mm³. The aerosol generating matrix can have a bulk density greater than or equal to 0.15 mg / mm³. The aerosol generating matrix can have a bulk density greater than or equal to 0.2 mg / mm³. The aerosol generating matrix can have a bulk density greater than or equal to 0.3 mg / mm³. The aerosol generating matrix can have a bulk density greater than or equal to 0.4 mg / mm³.

[0109] The aerosol generating matrix can have a bulk density of less than or equal to 0.5 mg / mm³. The aerosol generating matrix can have a bulk density of less than or equal to 0.4 mg / mm³. The aerosol generating matrix can have a bulk density of less than or equal to 0.35 mg / mm³. The aerosol generating matrix can have a bulk density of less than or equal to 0.3 mg / mm³.

[0110] The aerosol generating matrix can have a bulk density between 0.05 mg / mm³ and 0.5 mg / mm³. The aerosol generating matrix can have a bulk density between 0.1 mg / mm³ and 0.4 mg / mm³. The aerosol generating matrix can have a bulk density between 0.1 mg / mm³ and 0.3 mg / mm³. The aerosol generating matrix can have a bulk density between 0.2 mg / mm³ and 0.3 mg / mm³.

[0111] The aerosol generating matrix can have a filling density greater than or equal to 0.3. The aerosol generating matrix can have a filling density greater than or equal to 0.4. The aerosol generating matrix can have a filling density greater than or equal to 0.5. The aerosol generating matrix can have a filling density greater than or equal to 0.6. The aerosol generating matrix can have a filling density greater than or equal to 0.7.

[0112] The aerosol generating matrix may have a packing density of 0.9 or less. The aerosol generating matrix may have a packing density of 0.8 or less. The aerosol generating matrix may have a packing density of 0.7 or less. The aerosol generating matrix may have a packing density of 0.6 or less. The aerosol generating matrix may have a packing density of 0.5 or less.

[0113] The aerosol generating matrix can have a packing density between 0.3 and 0.9. The aerosol generating matrix can have a packing density between 0.4 and 0.9. The aerosol generating matrix can have a packing density between 0.5 and 0.9. The aerosol generating matrix can have a packing density between 0.5 and 0.8. The aerosol generating matrix can have a packing density between 0.5 and 0.7.

[0114] The aerosol generating matrix may contain one or more organic materials, such as tobacco, peppermint, tea, and clove. The aerosol generating matrix may also contain one or more of the following: herbaceous plant leaves, tobacco leaves, fragments of tobacco ribs, reconstituted tobacco, homogenized tobacco such as cast leaves, extruded tobacco, expanded tobacco, aerosol generating films, and gel compositions.

[0115] The aerosol generating matrix may include or be composed of homogenized tobacco material, such as reconstituted tobacco material or cast tobacco material.

[0116] The aerosol generating matrix may be in the form of shredded aerosol generating material. Shredded aerosol generating material may include one or more of the following: strips and strands of aerosol generating material, such as strips and strands of tobacco or homogenized tobacco material. Shredded aerosol generating material may also be in the form of shredded homogenized tobacco material sheets.

[0117] The aerosol-generating matrix can be shredded filler. Shredded filler can comprise one or more of flue-cured, sun-cured, aromatic, and filler tobaccos. Examples of flue-cured tobacco include Brazilian flue-cured tobacco, Indian flue-cured tobacco, Chinese flue-cured tobacco, American flue-cured tobacco (such as Virginia tobacco), and flue-cured tobacco from Tanzania. Examples of aromatic tobaccos include Oriental Turkish, Greek Oriental, and semi-Oriental tobaccos, but also open-flame aging American Burley, such as Perique and Rustica. Examples of sun-cured tobaccos include dark-aging Brazilian Galpao, Malawi Burley or other African Burley, and sun-aged or air-aged Indonesian Kasturi. As used herein, the term "shredded filler" is used to describe blends of shredded plant material (such as tobacco plant material), particularly including one or more of leaves, processed stems and ribs, and homogenized plant material.

[0118] Aerosol-generating matrices can take the form of aerosol-generating material sheets. As used herein, the term "sheet" describes a layered element whose width and length are significantly greater than its thickness. Aerosol-generating material sheets can be plant material sheets. Aerosol-generating material sheets can be tobacco material sheets. Aerosol-generating material sheets can be homogenized tobacco material sheets, such as cast leaf material.

[0119] Aerosol-generating material sheets can have a basis weight between 100 g / m² and 600 g / m². Aerosol-generating material sheets can have a basis weight between 100 g / m² and 300 g / m².

[0120] Aerosol generating material sheets may have a density greater than or equal to 0.3 g / cm³. Aerosol generating material sheets may have a density greater than or equal to 0.4 g / cm³. Aerosol generating material sheets may have a density greater than or equal to 0.5 g / cm³. Aerosol generating material sheets may have a density greater than or equal to 0.6 g / cm³. Aerosol generating material sheets may have a density greater than or equal to 0.7 g / cm³. Aerosol generating material sheets may have a density less than or equal to 0.8 g / cm³.

[0121] Aerosol generating material sheets may have a density of less than or equal to 1.0 g / cm³. Aerosol generating material sheets may have a density of less than or equal to 0.9 g / cm³. Aerosol generating material sheets may have a density of less than or equal to 0.8 g / cm³. Aerosol generating material sheets may have a density of less than or equal to 0.7 g / cm³. Aerosol generating material sheets may have a density of less than or equal to 0.6 g / cm³. Aerosol generating material sheets may have a density of less than or equal to 0.5 g / cm³. Aerosol generating material sheets may have a density of less than or equal to 0.4 g / cm³.

[0122] Aerosol generating material sheets can have a density between 0.3 g / cm³ and 1.3 g / cm³. Aerosol generating material sheets can have a density between 0.3 g / cm³ and 1.0 g / cm³. Aerosol generating material sheets can have a density between 0.4 g / cm³ and 1.0 g / cm³. Aerosol generating material sheets can have a density between 0.4 g / cm³ and 0.9 g / cm³. Aerosol generating material sheets can have a density between 0.5 g / cm³ and 0.9 g / cm³.

[0123] The aerosol generating material sheet can be an aggregated aerosol generating material sheet. That is, the aerosol generating material sheet can be rolled, folded, or otherwise compressed or contracted substantially perpendicular to the transverse direction of the aerosol generating matrix rod.

[0124] The aerosol generating material sheet can be a rolled aerosol generating material sheet. The aerosol generating material sheet can be a corrugated aerosol generating material sheet. The rolled or corrugated aerosol generating material sheet may include multiple parallel corrugations. These multiple parallel corrugations can define or form multiple channels. These multiple channels can be multiple longitudinally extending channels. That is, the multiple channels can extend in the longitudinal direction of the aerosol generating matrix rod.

[0125] The aerosol-generating matrix may comprise a combined assembly of strips, strands, or particles of tobacco material. The aerosol-generating matrix may be in the form of a compressed rod of tobacco material; for example, a rod having a substantially circular cross-section in its initial state may be compressed into a flatter cross-sectional profile in a subsequent state. The aerosol-generating matrix may also be in the form of strips, strands, or particles of tobacco material bonded together in a binder matrix.

[0126] The aerosol generating matrix may include one or more aerosol forming agents. Suitable aerosol forming agents are well known in the art and include, but are not limited to, one or more aerosol forming agents selected from: polyols, such as propylene glycol, polyethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol, and glycerol; esters of polyols, such as glycerol monoacetate, glycerol diacetate, or glycerol triacetate; and aliphatic esters of monocarboxylic acids, dicarboxylic acids, or polycarboxylic acids, such as dimethyl dodecanoate and dimethyl tetradecanoate. Particularly preferred aerosol forming agents may be one or both of glycerol and propylene glycol, or a combination of glycerol and propylene glycol. The aerosol forming agent may consist of glycerol or propylene glycol, or a combination of glycerol and propylene glycol.

[0127] The aerosol generating matrix may have an aerosol forming agent content of 1%, 2%, 5%, 10%, or 15% by weight on a dry weight basis. The aerosol generating matrix may also have an aerosol forming agent content of 15% by weight on a dry weight basis, for example, 20% by weight, 25% by weight, 30% by weight, 40% by weight, or 50% by weight on a dry weight basis.

[0128] The aerosol generating matrix 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, based on dry weight. In other words, the aerosol generating material 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, based on dry weight.

[0129] The aerosol generating matrix may have an aerosol forming agent content of between 1% and 30% by weight, between 1% and 25% by weight, or between 1% and 20% by weight, based on dry weight.

[0130] The aerosol generating matrix 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.

[0131] The aerosol generating matrix 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.

[0132] The aerosol generating matrix 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.

[0133] The aerosol-generating matrix may contain nicotine. The aerosol-generating matrix may contain natural nicotine, synthetic nicotine, or a combination of natural and synthetic nicotine. Nicotine may be present in the form of tobacco materials or in the form of nicotine extracts.

[0134] The aerosol generating matrix 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.

[0135] The aerosol-generating matrix can be substantially tobacco-free or nicotine-free.

[0136] The aerosol-generating matrix may contain one or more flavoring agents. These flavoring agents may contain one or more of the following: one or more essential oils, such as eugenol, peppermint oil, and spearmint oil; one or both of menthol and eugenol; one or both of anethole and linalool; and herbal materials. Suitable herbal materials include herb leaves or other herbal materials derived from herbs, including but not limited to peppermint (such as peppermint and spearmint), lemon balm, basil, cinnamon, lemon basil, chives, coriander, lavender, sage, tea, thyme, and fennel. One or more flavoring agents may include tobacco materials.

[0137] The aerosol generating matrix may contain one or more plant-derived materials. For example, the aerosol generating matrix may contain about 1% to 90%, such as about 15% to 55%, preferably about 20% to 35% of plant-derived materials, such as clove, echinacea, fennel, ginger, hawthorn berries, elderberry fruit, horsemint, mullein leaves, nettle, plantain, turmeric, yarrow, pine needle tea, star anise, thyme, dill, chamomile, and compounds thereof.

[0138] In the final product state, the aerosol generating matrix may have a moisture content of about 5% to 25%, preferably about 7% to 15%. For example, the aerosol generating matrix may be a homogenized tobacco material having a moisture content of about 5% to 25%, preferably about 7% to 15%, in the final product state.

[0139] The aerosol-generating matrix may contain a binder. For example, the aerosol-generating matrix may contain about 1% to 10%, preferably about 1% to 5%, of a binder, such as any of the common gums or pectins used in the food and beverage (F&B) industry. Preferred binders may be natural pectins (such as fruit, e.g., citrus) or tobacco pectin; guar gum, locust bean gum, and hydroxyethyl and / or hydroxypropyl derivatives of these; starch, such as modified or derivatized starch; alginate; methyl, ethyl, ethylhydroxymethyl, and carboxymethyl cellulose; dextran; and xanthan gum. Guar gum is a preferred binder.

[0140] The aerosol generation matrix may include or be composed of solid aerosol forming materials. The aerosol generation matrix may also include liquid aerosol forming materials, such as liquid aerosol forming materials contained within a porous matrix. The aerosol generation matrix may also include gel aerosol forming materials.

[0141] The aerosol generating matrix rod may include a matrix package. The matrix package may define the aerosol generating matrix. The matrix package may define at least one support member. Advantageously, having at least one support member makes it easier to define the aerosol generating matrix with the matrix package.

[0142] The matrix packaging may include a first matrix packaging that forms the upper layer of the aerosol generating matrix rod and a second matrix packaging that forms the lower layer of the aerosol generating matrix rod.

[0143] The substrate packaging material may have a weight of 20 g / m², 25 g / m², 30 g / m², 35 g / m², 40 g / m², 45 g / m², 50 g / m², 60 g / m², or 70 g / m².

[0144] The substrate packaging material may have a weight of less than or equal to 180 g / m², less than or equal to 160 g / m², less than or equal to 140 g / m², less than or equal to 120 g / m², or less than or equal to 100 g / m².

[0145] The substrate packaging material may have a weight between 20 g / m² and 200 g / m², between 25 g / m² and 180 g / m², between 30 g / m² and 160 g / m², between 35 g / m² and 140 g / m², between 40 g / m² and 120 g / m², between 45 g / m² and 120 g / m², or between 50 g / m² and 100 g / m².

[0146] The substrate packaging can have a thickness between 10 micrometers and 300 micrometers, between 10 micrometers and 200 micrometers, between 10 micrometers and 150 micrometers, between 10 micrometers and 100 micrometers, between 10 micrometers and 75 micrometers, between 10 micrometers and 50 micrometers, between 10 micrometers and 40 micrometers, between 15 micrometers and 40 micrometers, and between 20 micrometers and 40 micrometers. The substrate packaging can also have a thickness of approximately 37 micrometers.

[0147] The matrix packaging may have a length substantially equal to the length of the aerosol-generating matrix. The matrix packaging may have a length substantially equal to the length of the aerosol-generating matrix rod.

[0148] The matrix packaging may define or form at least 60% of the outer surface area of ​​the aerosol generating matrix rod. The matrix packaging may define or form at least 70% of the outer surface area of ​​the aerosol generating matrix rod. The matrix packaging may define or form at least 95% of the outer surface area of ​​the aerosol generating matrix rod. The matrix packaging may define or form at least 98% of the outer surface area of ​​the aerosol generating matrix rod.

[0149] The matrix packaging may define or form less than 95% of the outer surface area of ​​the aerosol generating matrix rod. The matrix packaging may define or form less than 85% of the outer surface area of ​​the aerosol generating matrix rod. The matrix packaging may define or form less than 75% of the outer surface area of ​​the aerosol generating matrix rod.

[0150] The matrix packaging can form a tube with an open end, and the aerosol generating matrix can be positioned within the tube with the open end. The aerosol generating matrix can be exposed at one or both of the distal and proximal ends of the aerosol generating matrix rod. That is, the aerosol generating matrix can be exposed at one or both of the upstream and downstream ends of the aerosol generating matrix rod. Alternatively, the matrix packaging can completely encapsulate the aerosol generating matrix.

[0151] The matrix packaging may contain one or more flavorings. Advantageously, the flavorings in the matrix packaging may be entrained in the air flowing through the aerosol-generating matrix rod or released into the air flowing through the aerosol-generating matrix rod. The one or more flavorings may be any flavorings described herein with respect to the aerosol-generating matrix.

[0152] The matrix packaging may contain one or more aerosol forming agents. These one or more aerosol forming agents can be any aerosol forming agent described herein with respect to aerosol-generating matrices.

[0153] The substrate packaging may include or be composed of cellulose materials. The substrate packaging may include or be composed of organic or plant materials, such as tobacco, mint, tea, and cloves.

[0154] The substrate packaging may include or be composed of a moisture-absorbing material. The moisture-absorbing material may include one or more materials selected from polyvinyl alcohol, silicone, or combinations thereof. For example, the substrate packaging may include a surface treatment of the moisture-absorbing material. The moisture-absorbing material may be dispersed within the substrate packaging.

[0155] The substrate packaging can be a sheet of material. The substrate packaging may include or be composed of cellulose material sheets, such as paper. The substrate packaging may include or be composed of organic material sheets or plant material sheets. The substrate packaging may include or be composed of homogenized tobacco material sheets.

[0156] The matrix packaging may include one or more elements selected from ceramic fibers or granules, metal strips or granules, or combinations thereof.

[0157] The ratio between the length of the aerosol generating matrix rod and the length of the aerosol-generated product can be greater than or equal to 0.4. The ratio between the length of the aerosol generating matrix rod and the length of the aerosol-generated product can be greater than or equal to 0.5. The ratio between the length of the aerosol generating matrix rod and the length of the aerosol-generated product can be greater than or equal to 0.6. The ratio between the length of the aerosol generating matrix rod and the length of the aerosol-generated product can be greater than or equal to 0.7.

[0158] The ratio between the length of the aerosol generating matrix rod and the length of the aerosol-generated product can be less than or equal to 0.9. The ratio between the length of the aerosol generating matrix rod and the length of the aerosol-generated product can be less than or equal to 0.8. The ratio between the length of the aerosol generating matrix rod and the length of the aerosol-generated product can be less than or equal to 0.7. The ratio between the length of the aerosol generating matrix rod and the length of the aerosol-generated product can be less than or equal to 0.6.

[0159] The ratio between the length of the aerosol generating matrix rod and the length of the aerosol generating article can be between 0.4 and 0.9. The ratio between the length of the aerosol generating matrix rod and the length of the aerosol generating article can be between 0.5 and 0.9. The ratio between the length of the aerosol generating matrix rod and the length of the aerosol generating article can be between 0.5 and 0.8. The ratio between the length of the aerosol generating matrix rod and the length of the aerosol generating article can be between 0.6 and 0.8.

[0160] Aerosol generating matrix rods may have a length greater than or equal to 6 mm. Aerosol generating matrix rods may have a length greater than or equal to 10 mm. Aerosol generating matrix rods may have a length greater than or equal to 14 mm. Aerosol generating matrix rods may have a length greater than or equal to 18 mm. Aerosol generating matrix rods may have a length greater than or equal to 22 mm. Aerosol generating matrix rods may have a length greater than or equal to 26 mm. Aerosol generating matrix rods may have a length greater than or equal to 30 mm.

[0161] Aerosol generating matrix rods may have a length of 45 mm or less. Aerosol generating matrix rods may have a length of 32 mm or less. Aerosol generating matrix rods may have a length of 28 mm or less. Aerosol generating matrix rods may have a length of 24 mm or less. Aerosol generating matrix rods may have a length of 20 mm or less. Aerosol generating matrix rods may have a length of 16 mm or less. Aerosol generating matrix rods may have a length of 12 mm or less. Aerosol generating matrix rods may have a length of 8 mm or less.

[0162] Aerosol generating matrix rods can have lengths between 6 mm and 45 mm. Aerosol generating matrix rods can have lengths between 10 mm and 30 mm. Aerosol generating matrix rods can have lengths between 14 mm and 26 mm. Aerosol generating matrix rods can have lengths between 14 mm and 22 mm. Aerosol generating matrix rods can have lengths between 14 mm and 18 mm.

[0163] Aerosol generating matrix rods may have a width greater than or equal to 4 mm. Aerosol generating matrix rods may have a width greater than or equal to 5 mm. Aerosol generating matrix rods may have a width greater than or equal to 6 mm. Aerosol generating matrix rods may have a width greater than or equal to 7 mm. Aerosol generating matrix rods may have a width greater than or equal to 8 mm.

[0164] Aerosol generating matrix rods may have a width of 16 mm or less. Aerosol generating matrix rods may have a width of 14 mm or less. Aerosol generating matrix rods may have a width of 12 mm or less. Aerosol generating matrix rods may have a width of 11 mm or less. Aerosol generating matrix rods may have a width of 10 mm or less. Aerosol generating matrix rods may have a width of 9 mm or less. Aerosol generating matrix rods may have a width of 8 mm or less.

[0165] Aerosol generating matrix rods can have a width between 4 mm and 16 mm. Aerosol generating matrix rods can have a width between 6 mm and 10 mm.

[0166] The aerosol generating matrix rod may have a length between 6 mm and 45 mm, a width between 4 mm and 16 mm, and a thickness between 0.5 mm and 5.5 mm.

[0167] Preferably, the aerosol generating matrix rod may have a length between 10 mm and 30 mm, a width between 6 mm and 10 mm, and a thickness between 2 mm and 6 mm.

[0168] Aerosol-generated articles may include at least one outer packaging.

[0169] At least one outer packaging may define or form one or both of the upper surface of the substantially planar surface of the aerosol-generating article and the lower surface of the substantially planar surface of the aerosol-generating article.

[0170] At least one outer packaging may completely define or surround the aerosol-generating article. At least one outer packaging may completely define or surround the aerosol-generating article for more than or equal to 90% of its length. Preferably, at least one outer packaging may completely define or surround the aerosol-generating article for 100% of its length.

[0171] At least one outer packaging may define or surround only the downstream portion of the first rod. At least one outer packaging may define or surround 25% or more of the length of the first rod, or 50% or more of the length of the first rod. At least one outer packaging may define or surround 75% or less of the length of the first rod, or 50% or less of the length of the first rod.

[0172] At least one outer packaging may define or surround only the upstream portion of the second rod. At least one outer packaging may define or surround 25% or more of the length of the second rod, or 50% or more of the length of the second rod. At least one outer packaging may define or surround 75% or less of the length of the second rod, or 50% or less of the length of the second rod.

[0173] At least one outer packaging may include a first outer packaging and a second outer packaging. The first outer packaging may form a first outer layer of the aerosol-generating article, and the second outer packaging may form a second outer layer of the aerosol-generating article. The first outer layer may be a first planar outer layer. The second outer layer may be a second planar outer layer.

[0174] At least one outer packaging may be limited to defining or forming the upper surface of the substantially planar surface of the aerosol-generating article and the lower surface of the substantially planar surface of the aerosol-generating article, such that the side portion of the aerosol-generating article between the substantially planar upper surface and the substantially planar lower surface is not defined or formed by at least one outer packaging.

[0175] At least one outer packaging, each of at least one outer packaging, or any one of at least one outer packaging may be hydrophobic. At least one outer packaging or any one of at least one outer packaging may include a hydrophobic material.

[0176] At least one outer packaging, each of at least one outer packaging, or any one of at least one outer packaging may include a sheet of material, such as a sheet of cellulose material.

[0177] At least one outer packaging material, each of at least one outer packaging material, or any one of at least one outer packaging material may comprise or be made of cellulose material. Cellulose material may be paper, cigarette paper, tobacco paper, cardboard, wood, textiles, natural fibers, or synthetic fibers. Preferably, at least one outer packaging material, each of at least one outer packaging material, or any one of at least one outer packaging material is cigarette paper.

[0178] At least one outer packaging, each of at least one outer packaging, or any one of at least one outer packaging may be substantially tobacco-free or substantially nicotine-free.

[0179] At least one outer packaging, each of at least one outer packaging, or any one of at least one outer packaging may have a thickness of 250 micrometers or more, 300 micrometers or more, 350 micrometers or more, 400 micrometers or more, or 450 micrometers or more.

[0180] At least one outer packaging, each of at least one outer packaging, or any one of at least one outer packaging may have a thickness of less than or equal to 550 micrometers, less than or equal to 500 micrometers, less than or equal to 450 micrometers, less than or equal to 400 micrometers, or less than or equal to 350 micrometers.

[0181] At least one outer packaging, each of at least one outer packaging, or any one of at least one outer packaging may have a thickness between 250 micrometers and 550 micrometers, between 250 micrometers and 450 micrometers, or between 300 micrometers and 450 micrometers.

[0182] At least one outer packaging element, or any one of at least one outer packaging element, may have a length substantially the same as the length of the aerosol-generating article. At least one outer packaging element, or any one of at least one outer packaging element, may have a width substantially the same as the width of the aerosol-generating article.

[0183] Aerosol-generating articles of any aspect of this disclosure may have a length (e.g., x-dimension) between 10 mm and 100 mm, or between 10 mm and 50 mm, for example between 10 mm and 40 mm, for example between 12 mm and 30 mm, for example between 14 mm and 26 mm, for example between 16 mm and 24 mm, for example between 18 mm and 22 mm, for example about 18 mm, or about 19 mm, or about 20 mm, or about 21 mm, or about 22 mm.

[0184] The width (e.g., y-dimension) of the aerosol-generated article may be between 5 mm and 20 mm, for example between 8 mm and 18 mm, for example between 10 mm and 16 mm, for example between 11 mm and 15 mm, for example between 12 mm and 14 mm, for example about 13 mm.

[0185] The height (e.g., z-dimension) of the aerosol-generating article may be between 1 mm and 10 mm, for example between 1.2 mm and 8 mm, for example between 1.4 mm and 7 mm, for example between 1.6 mm and 6 mm, for example between 1.7 mm and 5 mm, for example about 1.7 mm, or about 4.5 mm, or about 2 mm, or about 3 mm, or about 4 mm.

[0186] When viewed in a plan view, any aerosol-generating article of this disclosure may have a defined polygonal, quadrilateral (e.g., rectangular or square), oval, circular, or combination thereof shape. In the case where the aerosol-generating article comprises a substantially planar upper and lower surface, when viewed in a plan view, one or both of the upper and lower surfaces may have a defined polygonal, quadrilateral (e.g., rectangular or square), oval, circular, or combination thereof shape. When viewed in a plan view, the periphery of the aerosol-generating article may be formed by a plurality of straight sides, a plurality of curved sides, or a combination of straight and curved sides. In the case where the aerosol-generating article comprises a substantially planar upper and lower surface, when viewed in a plan view, the periphery of one or both of the upper and lower surfaces may have a defined polygonal, quadrilateral (e.g., rectangular or square), oval, circular, or combination thereof shape.

[0187] According to this disclosure, an aerosol generating apparatus for receiving an aerosol generating article or an aerosol generating matrix as disclosed herein may include a cavity sized to receive at least a portion of the aerosol generating article or the aerosol generating matrix, a heater or heating device, a power supply for supplying power to the heater or heating device, and a controller for controlling the power supply to the heater or heating device. The aerosol generating apparatus is configured to heat the aerosol generating matrix, such as an aerosol generating matrix that is a component of the aerosol generating article, to form an aerosol, such as an inhalable aerosol.

[0188] The aerosol generating device can preferably be configured to receive the entire aerosol-generated product, such that the aerosol-generated product is completely encapsulated within the aerosol generating device.

[0189] The cavity may include an opening into which the distal end of the aerosol-generating article can be inserted. The cavity may have any suitable cross-sectional shape. For example, the cavity may have a rectangular cross-section, such as a rectangular cross-section having a length greater than the opposing top and bottom sides on the left and right sides.

[0190] Preferably, at least one inner surface of the cavity is a heating surface configured to heat the aerosol-generating article. The heating surface may include a heater (e.g., a resistance heater or an infrared heater) or a sensor configured to be heated by engagement with a sensor. The heating surface may include a sensor; for example, the surface may include a coil arranged to generate a undulating electromagnetic field within the space of the cavity. The heating surface may be a surface permeable to the undulating electromagnetic field, such that a sensor disposed outside the cavity can project the undulating electromagnetic field through the heating surface to engage with a sensor disposed within the cavity.

[0191] As used herein, the term "aerosol-generating article" may refer to an article that can generate or release aerosols.

[0192] As used herein, the term "aerosol generating matrix" can refer to a matrix capable of releasing aerosols or volatile compounds that can form aerosols. Such volatile compounds can be released by heating the aerosol generating matrix. An aerosol generating matrix may include aerosol-forming materials. An aerosol generating matrix may be adsorbed, coated, impregnated, or otherwise loaded onto a carrier or support. An aerosol generating matrix may suitably be part of an aerosol generating article or a smoking article.

[0193] As used herein, the term "aerosol generating apparatus" can refer to an apparatus used in conjunction with an aerosol generating article to enable the generation or release of aerosols.

[0194] As used herein, the term "aerosol generation system" refers to a combination of an aerosol generation apparatus and one or more aerosol forming articles for use with the apparatus. An aerosol generation system may include additional components, such as a charging unit for recharging an onboard power supply in an electrically operated or electrosol generation apparatus.

[0195] As used herein, the term "aerosol forming agent" can refer to any suitable known compound or mixture of compounds that promotes the formation of aerosols in use. Aerosols can be dense and stable. Aerosols can be substantially heat-resistant to degradation at the operating temperatures of the aerosol-generating matrix or aerosol-generating article.

[0196] As used herein with reference to this invention, the term "nicotine" is used to describe nicotine, nicotine base, or nicotine salt.

[0197] As used herein with reference to the invention, the terms “proximal,” “distal,” “upstream,” and “downstream” are used to describe the relative positions of components or parts of aerosol-generating articles.

[0198] As used herein, the term "longitudinal" refers to the direction corresponding to the main longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating article, which extends between the upstream and downstream ends of the aerosol-generating article. During use, air can be drawn through the aerosol-generating article in the longitudinal direction.

[0199] As used herein, the term "sheet" refers to a layered element whose width and length are significantly greater than its thickness. The width of the sheet may be greater than 10 mm, preferably greater than 20 mm or 30 mm. In some embodiments, the material sheet used to form the aerosol-generating matrix as described herein may have a thickness between 10 μm and about 1000 μm, for example, between 10 μm and about 300 μm.

[0200] As used herein, the term "homogenized tobacco material" encompasses any tobacco material formed by the agglomeration of tobacco material particles. Homogenized tobacco material sheets or webs are formed by agglomerating particulate tobacco, which is obtained by grinding or otherwise pulverizing one or both of tobacco leaves and tobacco stems. Additionally, homogenized tobacco material may include small amounts of one or more of tobacco dust, tobacco dregs, and other particulate tobacco byproducts formed during tobacco processing, handling, and transportation. Homogenized tobacco material sheets can be produced by casting, extrusion, papermaking processes, or any other suitable processes known in the art.

[0201] The term "cast leaf" is used herein to refer to a product manufactured by a casting process, which is based on casting a slurry comprising plant particles (e.g., clove particles or a mixture of tobacco particles and clove particles) and a binder (e.g., guar gum) onto a support surface (such as a belt conveyor), drying the slurry, and removing the dried sheet from the support surface. Examples of casting or the casting leaf process are described, for example, in US-A-5,724,998 for the manufacture of cast leaf tobacco. In the casting leaf process, granular plant material is produced by partially crushing, grinding, or grinding a portion of the plant. Particles produced from one or more plants are mixed with a liquid component (typically water) to form a slurry. Other components in the slurry may include fibers, binders, and aerosol-forming agents. The granular plant material may agglomerate in the presence of a binder. The slurry is cast onto a support surface and dried into a homogenized sheet of plant material. Preferably, the homogenized plant material for articles according to the invention can be produced by casting. Such homogenized plant material may comprise agglomerated granular plant material.

[0202] As used in this article, suction resistance is expressed in pressure units of “mm H2O” or “mm WG” or “mm water column” and can be measured according to ISO 6565:2002.

[0203] As used in this article, the term "bulk density" refers to the total mass of the aerosol-generating matrix divided by the bulk volume of the aerosol-generating matrix.

[0204] As used herein, the term “fill density” refers to the ratio of the total volume of the components of the aerosol-generating matrix (such as solid and liquid components) to the packing volume of the aerosol-generating matrix.

[0205] The invention is defined in the claims. However, a non-exhaustive list of non-limiting examples is provided below. Any one or more features of these examples may be combined with any one or more features of another example, embodiment, or aspect described herein.

[0206] Example 1. An aerosol generating article for use with an aerosol generating apparatus, the aerosol generating article comprising: First leg, The second leg, and Including aerosol generation matrix rods; The first rod is positioned upstream of the aerosol generating matrix rod, and the second rod is positioned downstream of the aerosol generating matrix rod; and The thickness of the aerosol-generating article is less than 50% of the length of the aerosol-generating article, and the thickness of the aerosol-generating article is less than 50% of the width of the aerosol-generating article.

[0207] Example 2. An aerosol-generating article according to Example 1, wherein the aerosol-generating article includes an upper surface that is substantially planar and is defined by a length extending in the x-direction and a width extending in the y-direction, and a lower surface that is substantially planar and is defined by a length extending in the x-direction and a width extending in the y-direction.

[0208] Example 3. An aerosol-generating article according to Example 1 or 2, wherein one or both of the first rod and the second rod are positioned adjacent to the aerosol-generating matrix rod.

[0209] Example 4. An aerosol generating article according to any one of Examples 1 to 3, wherein one or both of the first rod and the second rod are adjacent to the aerosol generating matrix rod.

[0210] Example 5. An aerosol generating article according to any one of Examples 1 to 4, wherein the first rod is positioned at the most upstream end of the aerosol generating article.

[0211] Example 6. An aerosol generating article according to any one of Examples 1 to 5, wherein the second rod is positioned at the most downstream end of the aerosol generating article.

[0212] Example 7. An aerosol generating article according to any one of Examples 1 to 6, wherein the first rod defines an inlet for the aerosol generating article.

[0213] Example 8. An aerosol generating article according to any one of Examples 1 to 7, wherein the second rod defines the outlet of the aerosol generating article.

[0214] Example 9. An aerosol-generating article according to any one of Examples 1 to 8, wherein the first rod includes a first rod chamber.

[0215] Example 10. An aerosol-generated article according to Example 9, wherein the first rod chamber has a width of at least 80% or at least 90% of the width of the first rod, and the first rod chamber has a thickness of at least 80% or at least 90% of the thickness of the first rod.

[0216] Example 11. An aerosol-generating article according to Example 9 or 10, wherein the first rod includes one or more walls extending between an upstream end of the first rod and a downstream end of the first rod, and wherein the one or more walls enclose or at least partially enclose the chamber of the first rod.

[0217] Example 12. An aerosol-generating article according to any one of Examples 1 to 11, wherein the second rod includes a second rod chamber.

[0218] Example 13. An aerosol-generating article according to Example 12, wherein the second rod chamber has a width of at least 80% or at least 90% of the width of the second rod, and the second rod chamber has a thickness of at least 80% or at least 90% of the thickness of the second rod.

[0219] Example 14. An aerosol-generating article according to Example 12 or 13, wherein the second rod includes one or more walls extending between an upstream end of the second rod and a downstream end of the second rod, and wherein the one or more walls enclose or at least partially enclose the chamber of the second rod.

[0220] Example 15. An aerosol generating article according to any of the preceding examples when belonging to any of Examples 9 to 11, wherein the first rod includes a fragrance releasing element positioned in the chamber of the first rod.

[0221] Example 16. An aerosol generating article according to any of the preceding examples when belonging to any of Examples 12 to 14, wherein the second rod includes a fragrance releasing element positioned in the chamber of the second rod.

[0222] Example 17. An aerosol-generated article according to Example 13 or 14, wherein the flavor-releasing element comprises or is impregnated with or immersed in one or more flavorings.

[0223] Example 18. An aerosol-generating article according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the first rod includes a first rod body, and wherein a first flap extends from the first rod body and a second flap extends from the first rod body, and wherein the first flap and the second flap cover the downstream end of the first rod body to define a downstream opening of the first rod.

[0224] Example 19. An aerosol-generating article according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the second rod includes a second rod body, and wherein a first flap extends from the second rod body and a second flap extends from the second rod body, and wherein the first flap and the second flap cover the upstream end of the second rod body to define an upstream opening of the second rod.

[0225] Example 20. An aerosol generating article according to any one of Examples 1 to 17, wherein one or both of the first rod and the second rod are in the form of a tube, such as a rectangular tube.

[0226] Example 21. An aerosol-generating article according to any of the preceding examples, wherein one or both of the first rod and the second rod are formed from two or more geometrically identical elements.

[0227] Example 22. An aerosol-generated article according to Example 21, wherein each of the two or more geometrically identical elements extends the entire length of the corresponding rod and the entire thickness of the corresponding rod.

[0228] Example 23. An aerosol-generated article according to Example 21 or 22, wherein the first rod comprises a first geometrically identical element and a second geometrically identical element, each of the first geometrically identical element and the second geometrically identical element having an "L" shape or being an "L" beam.

[0229] Example 24. An aerosol-generating article according to any one of Examples 21 to 23, wherein the second rod comprises a first geometrically identical element and a second geometrically identical element, each of the first geometrically identical element and the second geometrically identical element having an "L" shape or being an "L" beam.

[0230] Example 25. An aerosol-generating article according to any of the preceding examples, wherein one or both of the first rod and the second rod include a first length portion having a width and a second length portion having a width, and wherein the width of the first length portion is greater than the width of the second length portion, thereby forming at least one shoulder at a position between the first length portion and the second length portion.

[0231] Example 26. An aerosol-generating article according to Example 25, wherein a first length portion of the first rod is an upstream length portion, and a second length portion of the first rod is a downstream length portion.

[0232] Example 27. An aerosol-generated article according to Example 25 or 26, wherein a first length portion of the second rod is a downstream length portion, and a second length portion of the second rod is an upstream length portion.

[0233] Example 28. An aerosol-generated article according to any of the preceding examples, wherein one or both of the first rod and the second rod have a laminated or layered structure.

[0234] Example 29. An aerosol-generating article according to any of the preceding examples, wherein one or both of the first rod and the second rod comprise a sheet of material that has been corrugated, rolled, pleated, gathered, woven or folded into an element defining a plurality of longitudinally extending channels.

[0235] Example 30. An aerosol-generating article according to any of the preceding examples, wherein one or both of the first rod and the second rod comprise at least 80% by weight of cellulose material, such as paper or cardboard.

[0236] Example 31. An aerosol-generating article according to any of the preceding examples, wherein one or both of the first rod and the second rod are formed from, for example, a compressed material of particulate matter, powder or pellets.

[0237] Example 32. An aerosol-generated article according to any of the preceding examples, wherein one or both of the first rod and the second rod are formed from molded pulp.

[0238] Example 33. An aerosol-generating article according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the ratio between the length of the first rod and the length of the aerosol-generating article is greater than or equal to 0.30.

[0239] Example 34. An aerosol-generating article according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the ratio between the length of the second rod and the length of the aerosol-generating article is greater than or equal to 0.30.

[0240] Example 35. An aerosol generating article according to any of the foregoing examples, comprising at least one support member, the at least one support member including a first support member and a second support member, wherein the first support member and the second support member extend along opposite lateral sides of the aerosol generating matrix.

[0241] Example 36. An aerosol-generating article according to Example 35, wherein the first support member extends from the first rod to the second rod and is connected to the first rod and the second rod, and wherein the second support member extends from the first rod to the second rod and is connected to the first rod and the second rod.

[0242] Example 37. An aerosol-generating article according to Example 35 or 36, wherein the first rod, the second rod, and the at least one support member form a frame that at least partially defines a cavity, wherein the aerosol-generating matrix rod is positioned within the cavity.

[0243] Example 38. An aerosol-generating article according to any one of Examples 35 to 37, wherein each of the at least one support member comprises corrugated cardboard.

[0244] Example 39. An aerosol generating article according to any one of Examples 35 to 38, wherein the aerosol generating matrix rod includes a matrix package defining the aerosol generating matrix and the at least one support member.

[0245] Example 40. An aerosol-generating article according to any of the foregoing examples, wherein the aerosol-generating article includes at least one outer packaging.

[0246] Example 41. An aerosol-generating article according to Example 40, wherein the at least one outer packaging completely defines or surrounds the aerosol-generating article.

[0247] Example 42. An aerosol-generating article according to Example 40 or 41, wherein the at least one outer packaging completely defines or surrounds the aerosol-generating article for a length of greater than or equal to 90% of the aerosol-generating article.

[0248] Example 43. An aerosol-generating article according to Example 40, wherein the at least one outer packaging includes a first outer packaging and a second outer packaging, the first outer packaging forming a first outer layer of the aerosol-generating article, and the second outer packaging forming a second outer layer of the aerosol-generating article.

[0249] The examples will now be described further with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 This is a perspective view of an aerosol-generated article according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 2 This is a perspective view of an aerosol-generated article according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 3 This is a perspective view of an aerosol-generated article according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 4 This is a perspective view of an aerosol-generated article according to the fourth embodiment of this disclosure; Figure 5 This is a perspective view of an aerosol-generated article according to the fifth embodiment of this disclosure; Figure 6 This is a perspective view of an aerosol-generated article according to the sixth embodiment of this disclosure; Figure 7 A schematic diagram of an aerosol generation matrix rod according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure is shown; Figure 8 It shows Figure 7 A schematic side view of an aerosol-generating matrix rod; Figure 9 It shows Figure 7 A schematic plan view of the aerosol generation matrix rod; Figure 10 As shown Figure 7 A schematic diagram of the corrugated element used in the aerosol generation matrix rod; Figure 11 A perspective view of an aerosol generating matrix rod according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure is shown; Figure 12 A perspective view of an aerosol generating matrix rod according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure is shown; Figure 13 A method for forming a first rod according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure is shown; Figure 14A first rod according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure is shown; Figure 15 A method for forming a first rod according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure is shown; Figure 16 A first rod according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure is shown; Figure 17 A method for forming a first bar according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure is shown; Figure 18 A first rod according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure is shown; Figure 19 A first rod according to a fourth embodiment of the present disclosure is shown; Figure 20 A schematic diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, the apparatus being configured with an aerosol generating article, such as... Figures 1 to 6 The aerosol-generated products in any of the figures are joined together; Figure 21 It shows Figure 20 A schematic end view of an aerosol generating device; Figure 22 It is shown that... Figure 20 Aerosol generating apparatus combined with aerosol generating articles (e.g., Figures 1 to 6 A schematic diagram of any aerosol-generating product shown in any of the figures; and Figure 23 yes Figures 20 to 22 The schematic diagram of an alternative embodiment of the present invention illustrates an aerosol-generating article coupled with an aerosol-generating apparatus.

[0250] Figure 1 A perspective side view of an aerosol generating article 100 according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The aerosol generating article 100 has a flat or planar upper surface 110 and a lower surface 120.

[0251] The aerosol-generated article 100 has a length of 80 mm in the x-axis, a width of 15 mm in the y-axis, and a height (which may also be referred to as thickness) of 3.6 mm in the z-axis.

[0252] The aerosol generating article 100 includes: an aerosol generating matrix rod 300, the aerosol generating matrix rod including an aerosol generating matrix 345; a first rod 200 positioned upstream of the aerosol generating matrix rod 300; and a second rod 400 positioned downstream of the aerosol generating matrix rod 300. The aerosol generating matrix rod 300, the first rod 200, and the second rod 400 are axially aligned in the longitudinal direction. The first rod 200 has a length of approximately 20 mm, a width of approximately 15 mm, and a height (which may also be referred to as thickness) of approximately 3.6 mm. The second rod 400 has a length of approximately 20 mm, a width of approximately 15 mm, and a height (which may also be referred to as thickness) of approximately 3.6 mm. The aerosol generating matrix rod 300 has a length of 40 mm, a width of 15 mm, and a thickness of 3.6 mm.

[0253] An airflow path 130 is defined to pass through the aerosol generating article 100 between the upper surface 110 and the lower surface 120. The airflow path 130 extends between opposing first ends 101 and second ends 102 of the aerosol generating article 100. The first end 101 may define a distal end of the aerosol generating article 100, and the second end 102 may define a proximal end or oral end of the aerosol generating article 100. The airflow path 130 may be directed toward a user's mouth to allow the user to inhale aerosols generated due to heating of the aerosol generating matrix of the aerosol generating article 100.

[0254] Figure 2 A perspective view of an aerosol generating article 100 according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The aerosol generating article 100 according to the second embodiment is similar to the aerosol generating article 100 according to the first embodiment, except that the second embodiment includes a first outer packaging 141 forming a first planar outer layer of the aerosol generating article 100 and a second outer packaging 142 forming a second planar outer layer of the aerosol generating article 100. The first planar outer layer defines an upper surface 110, and the second planar outer layer 142 defines a lower surface 120. A first rod 200, an aerosol generating matrix rod 300, and a second rod 400 are positioned between the first outer packaging 141 and the second outer packaging 142. Each of the first outer packaging 141 and the second outer packaging 142 is cigarette paper.

[0255] The aerosol-generating article 100 has a length of 80 mm in the x-axis, a width of 15 mm in the y-axis, and a height (which may also be referred to as thickness) of 4.2 mm in the z-axis. Each of the first outer packaging 141 and the second outer packaging 142 has a thickness of 300 micrometers.

[0256] Figure 3A perspective view of an aerosol generating article 100 according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The aerosol generating article 100 according to the third embodiment is similar to the aerosol generating article 100 of the first embodiment, except that the third embodiment includes an outer packaging 140 defining the aerosol generating article 100 along its entire length. The outer packaging 140 defines an upper surface 110 and a lower surface 120, and defines each of a first rod (not shown), an aerosol generating matrix rod (not shown), and a second rod 400. The outer packaging 140 is cigarette paper.

[0257] The aerosol-generating article 100 has a length of 80 mm in the x-axis, a width of 15.6 mm in the y-axis, and a height (which may also be referred to as thickness) of 4.2 mm in the z-axis. The outer packaging 140 has a thickness of 300 micrometers.

[0258] Figure 4 A perspective view of an aerosol generating article 100 according to a fourth embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The aerosol generating article 100 according to the fourth embodiment includes a first support member 151 and a second support member 152. Each of the first support member 151 and the second support member 152 is a strip of corrugated cardboard.

[0259] First support member 151 and second support member 152 extend laterally along opposite sides of aerosol generating matrix rod 300. First support member 151 extends from first rod 200 to second rod 400 and is bonded to first rod 200 and second rod 400 with adhesive. Similarly, second support member 152 extends from first rod 200 to second rod 400 and is bonded to first rod 200 and second rod 400 with adhesive. First rod 200, second rod 400, and support members 151 and 152 form a frame that at least partially defines a cavity. Aerosol generating matrix rod 300 is positioned within the cavity and bonded to first support member 151 and second support member 152. Aerosol generating article 100 may include a first outer packaging 141 and second outer packaging 142 as in the second embodiment or an outer packaging 140 as in the third embodiment. Therefore, aerosol generating matrix rod 300 may not be bonded to first support member 151 and second support member 152.

[0260] The first support member 151 and the second support member 152 each have a thickness and length equal to the thickness and length of the aerosol generating matrix rod 300, respectively. The first support member 151 and the second support member 152 each have a width of approximately 3.5 mm.

[0261] Figure 5A perspective view of an aerosol generating article 100 according to a fifth embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The aerosol generating article 100 according to the fifth embodiment is similar to the aerosol generating article according to the fourth embodiment, except that the first support member 151 and the second support member 152 extend the entire length of the aerosol generating article 100.

[0262] Figure 6 A perspective view of an aerosol generating article 100 according to a sixth embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The aerosol generating article 100 according to the sixth embodiment is similar to the aerosol generating articles according to the fourth and fifth embodiments, except that a first support member 151 extends from a first shoulder 232 of a first rod 200 to a first shoulder of a second rod 400, and a second member 152 extends from a second shoulder 233 of a first rod 200 to a second shoulder of a second rod 400.

[0263] like Figure 19 As can be seen in more detail, the first rod 200 has an upstream length portion 230 and a downstream length portion 231, the upstream length portion having a first width and the downstream length portion having a second width. The first width is greater than the second width, thereby forming a first shoulder 232 on a first lateral side of the first rod 200 and a second shoulder 233 on a second lateral side of the first rod 200. Similarly, the second rod 400 has an upstream length portion and a downstream length portion, the upstream length portion having a first width and the downstream length portion having a second width. The second width is greater than the first width, thereby forming a first shoulder on a first lateral side of the second rod 400 and a second shoulder on a second lateral side of the second rod 400.

[0264] The downstream length portions of the first support member 151, the second support member 152, and the first rod 200 have a collective width equal to the width of the upstream length portion of the first rod 200. The upstream length portions of the first support member 151, the second support member 152, and the second rod 400 have a collective width equal to the width of the downstream length portion of the second rod 400.

[0265] Figure 7 , Figure 8 and Figure 9 End view, side view and plan view of an aerosol generating matrix rod 300 according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure are shown respectively. An aerosol generating article 100 according to the first to sixth embodiments may include the aerosol generating matrix rod 300. The aerosol generating matrix rod 300 includes a planar upper layer 310, a planar lower layer 320 and an intermediate or separating layer 340 disposed between the upper layer 310 and the lower layer 320.

[0266] The upper planar layer 310 is formed of a paper sheet with a thickness of 300 micrometers. The lower planar layer 320 is formed of a paper sheet with a thickness of 300 micrometers. The middle layer 340 is a corrugated element formed of a corrugated aerosol generating matrix sheet 345. A suitable aerosol generating matrix can be homogenized tobacco. Therefore, the middle layer 340 can be formed of a corrugated homogenized tobacco material sheet 345.

[0267] Figure 10 A corrugated aerosol generation matrix sheet 345 is shown. The corrugations have a amplitude of 3 mm 346 and a wavelength of 3 mm 347. The aerosol generation matrix sheet 345 forming the intermediate layer 340 has a thickness of 150 micrometers.

[0268] The intersections 351 and 352 between the upper layer 310 and the middle layer 340, and between the lower layer 320 and the middle layer 340, include adhesives that connect the respective layers.

[0269] The corrugations of the intermediate layer 340 form a first set of longitudinally extending channels 361 defined by the upper layer 310 and the intermediate layer 340, and a second set of longitudinally extending channels 362 defined by the lower layer 320 and the intermediate layer 340. The first set of longitudinally extending channels 361 and the second set of longitudinally extending channels 362 extend through the length of the aerosol-generating matrix rod 300 between the proximal end 371 and the distal end 372 of the matrix 345. The longitudinally extending channels 361, 362 define an airflow path through the matrix 345. Therefore, the airflow path crosses both sides of the aerosol-generating matrix sheet 345. The porosity of the aerosol-generating matrix rod 300 along the airflow path is approximately 90%. This provides a very low suction resistance (RTD) of less than 5 mm H2O. In fact, the RTD is close to zero.

[0270] Aerosol generating matrix 345 can be any suitable aerosol generating matrix sheet.

[0271] During use of the aerosol generating article 100, the aerosol generating matrix 345 is heated to release volatile compounds, which are then entrained in air drawn into channels 361, 362 via distal end 372. The volatile compounds then cool and condense to form an aerosol, which can be extracted from the channels 361, 362 of the aerosol generating article 100 via proximal end 371.

[0272] Figure 11 A perspective view of an aerosol generating matrix rod 300 according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. An aerosol generating article 100 according to the first to sixth embodiments may include the aerosol generating matrix rod 300. The aerosol generating matrix rod 300 includes an aerosol generating matrix 345 and a matrix package 380.

[0273] The aerosol generating matrix rod 300 includes a substantially planar upper surface defined by a length extending in the x-direction and a width extending in the y-direction. The aerosol generating matrix rod 300 also includes a substantially planar lower surface defined by a length extending in the x-direction and a width extending in the y-direction. The substantially planar upper and lower surfaces are spaced apart from each other by a thickness defined in the z-direction. The substantially planar upper and lower surfaces are parallel to each other.

[0274] The aerosol generating matrix rod 300 has a cuboid shape, and the thickness of the aerosol generating matrix rod 300 is constant over the entire width of the aerosol generating matrix rod 300, thereby providing the aerosol generating matrix rod 300 with a substantially rectangular cross-section (in the y / z plane).

[0275] The matrix packing 380 is a sheet of cellulose material having a basis weight of approximately 40 g / m² and a thickness of approximately 40 micrometers. The matrix packing 380 defines an aerosol-generating matrix 345 and has a length substantially equal to the length of the aerosol-generating matrix 345. The matrix packing 380 does not completely encapsulate the aerosol-generating matrix 345; instead, the aerosol-generating matrix 345 is exposed at both the proximal end 371 and the distal end 372 of the aerosol-generating matrix rod 300.

[0276] The aerosol generating matrix 345 is in the form of tobacco shredded filler and includes an aerosol forming agent, namely glycerol, and has an aerosol forming agent content of about 5% by weight on a dry weight basis. The aerosol generating matrix 345 extends from the proximal end 371 to the distal end 372 of the aerosol generating matrix rod 300, and thus extends the entire length of the aerosol generating matrix rod 300.

[0277] Figure 12 A perspective view of an aerosol generating matrix rod 300 according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. An aerosol generating article 100 according to the first to sixth embodiments may include the aerosol generating matrix rod 300. The aerosol generating matrix rod 300 according to the third embodiment is similar to the aerosol generating matrix rod 300 according to the second embodiment, except that the third embodiment includes a first support member 151 and a second support member 152 extending along the entire length of the aerosol generating matrix rod 300. A matrix package 380 defines an aerosol generating matrix 345, the first support member 151, and the second support member 152.

[0278] Figure 13 and Figure 14A method for forming a first rod 200 according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure and a perspective view of the first rod 200 according to the first embodiment are shown respectively. An aerosol generating article 100 according to the first to fifth embodiments may include a first rod 200. The first rod 200 is in the form of a rectangular tube. The first rod 200 is formed from a cardboard sheet 203 including a plurality of weak lines 204. The plurality of weak lines 204 are perforated weak lines. The cardboard sheet 203 is folded around the plurality of weak lines 204 to form a tube, each of the plurality of weak lines forming a longitudinally extending corner of the first rod 200. The free ends 205, 206 of the cardboard sheet 203 are joined together with adhesive to form another longitudinally extending corner of the first rod 200. The first rod 200 has an upstream opening (not shown) and a downstream opening 202. A second rod 400 may have the same construction.

[0279] Figure 15 and Figure 16 A method for forming a first rod 200 according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure and a perspective view of the first rod 200 according to the second embodiment are shown respectively. An aerosol generating article 100 according to the first to fifth embodiments may include a first rod 200. The first rod 200 is formed from two geometrically identical elements 211, 212. Specifically, the first rod 200 is formed from a first geometrically identical element 211 and a second geometrically identical element 212, each of which has an "L" shape. The two geometrically identical elements 211, 212 are bonded together, for example, with an adhesive. The two geometrically identical elements form an upstream opening (not shown) and a downstream opening 202 of the first rod 200. The second rod 400 may have the same construction.

[0280] Figure 17 and Figure 18 A method for forming a first rod 200 according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure and a perspective view of the first rod 200 according to the third embodiment are shown, respectively. An aerosol generating article 100 according to the first to fifth embodiments may include a first rod 200. The first rod 200 includes a first rod body 220 defining a first rod chamber 221. A first flap 222 extends from the first rod body 220, and a second flap 223 extends from the first rod body 220. As... Figure 18 As seen, the first flap 222 and the second flap 223 are movable over the downstream end of the first rod 220 to define a downstream opening 202. Specifically, the first flap 222 has a first notch 224, and the second flap 223 has a second notch 225, the first and second notches together forming the downstream opening 202 of the first rod 200. The second rod 400 may have the same construction.

[0281] Figure 19A perspective view of the first rod 200 according to the fourth embodiment is shown. The aerosol generating article 100 according to the sixth embodiment may include the first rod 200, as previously described. The second rod 400 may have the same construction.

[0282] Figure 20 and Figure 21 An aerosol generating apparatus 6000 is shown, configured for use with an aerosol generating article 600 (e.g., an aerosol generating article according to the first to sixth embodiments) including an aerosol generating matrix 640. The apparatus 6000 is an elongated aerosol generating device extending between a proximal end 6001 and a distal end 6002. The apparatus 6000 includes a battery 6010, a controller 6020, and a heater 6030 located within a housing 6040. The controller 6020 controls the power supply from the battery 6010 to the heater 6030. A cavity 6050 is defined in the apparatus 6000, having an opening 6051 defined in the proximal end 6001 of the apparatus. The opening 6051 is rectangular in shape and sized to accommodate a cross-section of the aerosol generating article 600. The cavity 6050 includes an upper planar surface 6052 and a lower planar surface 6053. A heater 6030 is located in the lower planar surface 6053 to heat the lower surface of the aerosol-generating article 600 inserted into the cavity 6050. The airflow path is configured to allow air to flow from outside the device 6000 into the cavity 6050.

[0283] Figure 22 The image shows the bonding of the aerosol generating article 600. Figure 20 The device 6000 has virtually no tolerance between the outer surface of the aerosol generating article 600 and the inner surface of the cavity 6050. Therefore, there is a tight fit between the aerosol generating article 600 and the device 6000. Since the RTD of the aerosol generating article 600 is negligible, the RTD of the system formed by the combination of the aerosol generating article 600 and the aerosol generating device 6000 is controlled by the airflow path defined within the device. The device 6000 can be operated when the user has inserted the aerosol generating article 600 into the cavity 6050. The heater 6030 heats the lower surface of the aerosol generating article 600, and thus heats the aerosol generating matrix 640 of the aerosol generating article 600. The volatile components of the aerosol generating matrix 640 evaporate and condense in the longitudinal airflow channel defined within the aerosol generating article 600 to form an aerosol. The user draws in the aerosol by suction at the proximal end 601 of the aerosol generating article 600. Once the aerosol generating matrix 640 of the aerosol generating article 600 has exhausted its volatile components, the aerosol generating article is removed from the cavity 6050 of the device 6000 and disposed of. The aerosol generating article 600 can be any of the previously described aerosol generating articles 100, 200, 300, 400, 500 or any other aerosol generating article of this disclosure.

[0284] although Figure 22 A portion of the aerosol generating article 600 extending outside the aerosol generating apparatus 6000 is shown, but in other embodiments, the entire aerosol generating article may be completely enclosed within the aerosol generating apparatus. As an example, Figure 23 It shows Figure 22 Alternative embodiments of the embodiments, wherein the same features are indicated by the same reference numerals but with the addition of an apostrophe '. For Figure 23 In an alternative embodiment, the entire aerosol-generating article 600' is enclosed within the aerosol-generating apparatus 6000'.

[0285] For the purposes of this specification and the appended claims, unless otherwise stated, all figures representing quantities, quantities, percentages, etc., shall be understood to be modified by the term "about" in all cases. 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. Thus, in this document, the number "A" is understood to be "A" ± 10% of "A". In this document, the number "A" may be considered to include a value within the general standard error of the measurement of the property modified by the number "A". In some cases used in the appended claims, the number "A" may deviate from the percentage listed above, provided that the amount of deviation 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. The terms "in which" and "wherein" are used synonymously in this specification.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating article for use with an aerosol generating apparatus, the aerosol generating article comprising: First leg, The second leg, and Including aerosol generation matrix rods; The first rod is positioned upstream of the aerosol generating matrix rod, and the second rod is positioned downstream of the aerosol generating matrix rod; and The thickness of the aerosol-generating article is less than 50% of the length of the aerosol-generating article, and the thickness of the aerosol-generating article is less than 50% of the width of the aerosol-generating article.

2. The aerosol generating article according to claim 1, wherein the first rod defines an inlet of the aerosol generating article and the second rod defines an outlet of the aerosol generating article.

3. The aerosol generating article according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the second rod includes a second rod chamber having a width of at least 80% or at least 90% of the width of the second rod, and the second rod chamber having a thickness of at least 80% or at least 90% of the thickness of the second rod.

4. The aerosol generating article according to any of the preceding claims, wherein one or both of the first rod and the second rod are in the form of a tube, such as a rectangular tube.

5. The aerosol generating article according to any of the preceding claims, wherein one or both of the first rod and the second rod are formed from two or more geometrically identical elements.

6. The aerosol-generating article of claim 5, wherein each of the two or more geometrically identical elements extends the entire length of the corresponding rod and the entire thickness of the corresponding rod.

7. The aerosol generating article according to any of the preceding claims, wherein one or both of the first rod and the second rod comprises a first length portion having a width and a second length portion having a width, and wherein the width of the first length portion is greater than the width of the second length portion, thereby forming at least one shoulder at a position between the first length portion and the second length portion.

8. The aerosol-generating article according to any of the preceding claims, wherein one or both of the first rod and the second rod have a laminated or layered structure.

9. The aerosol generating article according to any of the preceding claims, wherein one or both of the first rod and the second rod are formed from a compressed material, such as particulate matter, powder or pellets.

10. The aerosol generating article according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the ratio between the length of the first rod and the length of the aerosol generating article is greater than or equal to 0.30, and wherein the ratio between the length of the second rod and the length of the aerosol generating article is greater than or equal to 0.

30.

11. The aerosol generating article according to any of the preceding claims, the aerosol generating article comprising at least one support member, the at least one support member comprising a first support member and a second support member, wherein the first support member and the second support member extend laterally along opposite sides of the aerosol generating matrix.

12. The aerosol generating article of claim 11, wherein the first support member extends from the first rod to the second rod and is connected to the first rod and the second rod, and wherein the second support member extends from the first rod to the second rod and is connected to the first rod and the second rod.

13. The aerosol generating article according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the first rod, the second rod and the at least one support member form a frame that at least partially defines a cavity, wherein the aerosol generating matrix rod is positioned within the cavity.

14. The aerosol-generating article according to any one of claims 11 to 13, wherein each of the at least one support member comprises corrugated cardboard.

15. The aerosol generating article according to any one of claims 11 to 14, wherein the aerosol generating matrix rod comprises a matrix package defining the aerosol generating matrix and the at least one support member.

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