Cartridge for smoking device and support member

Abstract

To provide a cartridge for a smoking device which can support an aerosol forming substrate and inside which a flow passage for a gas can be secured.SOLUTION: A cartridge 10 for a smoking device used by being attached to an induction heating type smoking device has: an aerosol forming substrate 12 that has prescribed extending and circumferential directions and contains a tobacco plant or non-tobacco plant; a susceptor 13 that is provided within the aerosol forming substrate 12 along the extending direction and that is capable of being inductively heated; a packaging member 16 that covers the aerosol forming substrate 12 in the circumferential direction; and a first support member 11 that is in contact with the packaging member 16 and that supports one end, in the extending direction, of the aerosol forming substrate 12 containing the susceptor 13 therein. This cartridge 10 for a smoking device is provided with a gap G between the first support member 11 and the packaging member 16.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a cartridge and a support member for a smoking article. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, a variety of tobacco products have become popular. Among these tobacco products, so-called heated tobacco products can be heated without the use of flames by attaching a cartridge containing tobacco components to a heated smoking device. Smokers can enjoy tobacco by inhaling the tobacco components vaporized by heating. Cartridges containing components from plants other than tobacco are also becoming popular.

[0003] Known heated smoking devices include smoking devices that include a heating element and smoking devices that include an induction heating element. Smoking devices that include a heating element are provided with a heating element that is, for example, blade-shaped, rod-shaped, pin-shaped, or triangular-shaped, and this heating element is inserted into a cartridge that includes an aerosol-forming substrate. Smoking devices that include an induction heating element use a cartridge that has a susceptor inside the aerosol-forming substrate (see, for example, Patent Document 1). When this susceptor is induction heated, the aerosol-forming substrate is heated and an aerosol is generated. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Special Publication No. 2019-512235 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] In a cartridge used in such an induction-heated smoking device, it is desirable to ensure a gas flow path within the cartridge while supporting the susceptor and the aerosol-forming substrate.

[0006] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above circumstances, and aims to provide a cartridge and support member for a smoking article that can support a susceptor and an aerosol-forming substrate while ensuring a gas flow path within the cartridge. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] To achieve the above object, the present invention provides a smoking article cartridge for use in an induction-heated smoking article, comprising: an aerosol-forming substrate having a predetermined extension direction and circumferential direction and containing a tobacco plant or a non-tobacco plant as a raw material; a susceptor disposed within the aerosol-forming substrate along the extension direction and configured to be induction-heatable; a packaging member covering the aerosol-forming substrate in the circumferential direction; and a first support member in contact with the packaging member and supporting one end of the aerosol-forming substrate containing the susceptor in the extension direction, with a gap provided between the first support member and the packaging member.

[0008] In order to achieve the above object, the present invention provides a smoking device cartridge for use in an induction-heated smoking device, the smoking device cartridge comprising: an aerosol-forming substrate having a predetermined extension direction and circumferential direction and containing a tobacco plant or a non-tobacco plant as a raw material; a susceptor disposed within the aerosol-forming substrate along the extension direction and configured to be induction-heatable; and a packaging material covering the aerosol-forming substrate in the circumferential direction, the smoking device cartridge comprising a support member for supporting one end of the aerosol-forming substrate containing the susceptor therein in the extension direction, the support member having a facing portion facing the susceptor and a contact portion disposed outside the facing portion and in contact with the packaging material, with a gap provided between the support member and the packaging material. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] In the cartridge and support member for a smoking article according to the present invention, a support member (first support member) is provided, which supports one end of the aerosol-forming substrate containing a susceptor therein. A gap is provided between the support member and a packaging member that circumferentially covers the aerosol-forming substrate, allowing gas to flow through the gap. This makes it possible to secure a gas flow path within the cartridge while supporting the susceptor and the aerosol-forming substrate. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] 1A is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of a cartridge for a smoking article according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 1B is a cross-sectional view taken at a position different from that of the cross-sectional view shown in FIG. 1A. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a plan view showing an example of the configuration of one end of the cartridge for a smoking article shown in FIGS. 1(A) and 1(B). [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view showing the state in which the cartridge for a smoking article shown in FIGS. 1(A) and 1(B) is inserted into the smoking article. [Figure 4] 1 is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of a cartridge for a smoking article according to a first modified example. [Figure 5] 10 is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of a cartridge for a smoking article according to a second modification. FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of a cartridge for a smoking article according to a third modified example. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of a cartridge for a smoking article according to a fourth modified example. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of a cartridge for a smoking article according to a fifth modified example. [Figure 9A] 3 is a plan view illustrating another example of the first support member illustrated in FIG. 2. FIG. [Figure 9B] 3 is a plan view illustrating another example of the first support member illustrated in FIG. 2. FIG. [Figure 9C] 3 is a plan view illustrating another example of the first support member illustrated in FIG. 2. FIG. [Figure 10] 3 is a plan view showing another example of the configuration of one end portion of the cartridge for a smoking article shown in FIG. 2. FIG. [Figure 11] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view showing another example of the cartridge for a smoking article shown in FIGS. 1(A) and 1(B). [Figure 12] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view showing another example of the cartridge for a smoking article shown in FIGS. 1(A) and 1(B). [Figure 13] 10 is a plan view showing another example of the configuration of one end portion of the cartridge for a smoking article shown in FIG. 2. FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the same reference numerals are used for the same components throughout the drawings. Furthermore, the dimensional proportions in the drawings are exaggerated for the sake of convenience and may differ from the actual proportions.

[0012] [Embodiment] Figures 1(A), 1(B), and 2 show the configuration of a smoking article cartridge (smoking article cartridge 10) according to one embodiment of the present invention. The smoking article cartridge 10 has, for example, a cylindrical shape and extends in a predetermined direction. Figures 1(A) and 1(B) are cross-sectional views showing the configuration of the smoking article cartridge 10 in the extension direction, and Figure 2 is a plan view showing the configuration of one end in this extension direction (the end on the side of a first support member 11, described below). In the following description, the extension direction of the smoking article cartridge 10 may be referred to as the Y direction, and the width and height directions as the X and Z directions. Figures 1(A) and 1(B) are YZ cross-sectional views of the smoking article cartridge, and Figure 2 is an XZ plan view. Figures 1(A) and 1(B) show YZ cross-sections at different positions.

[0013] <Configuration of smoking article cartridge 10> The smoking article cartridge 10 has, for example, a first support member 11, an aerosol-forming substrate 12, a susceptor 13, a second support member 14, a mouthpiece 15, and a packaging member 16. The susceptor 13 is disposed within the aerosol-forming substrate 12. In the smoking article cartridge 10, the first support member 11, the aerosol-forming substrate 12 including the susceptor 13, the second support member 14, and the mouthpiece 15 are provided in this order along the Y direction. The packaging member 16 is provided across the extension direction (Y direction) of the smoking article cartridge 10, and covers the first support member 11 to the mouthpiece 15.

[0014] The aerosol-forming substrate 12 is provided between the first support member 11 and the second support member 14, and extends along the Y direction. The aerosol-forming substrate 12 is, for example, formed into a cylindrical shape, and has one end E1 and the other end E2 in the Y direction. The one end E1 of the aerosol-forming substrate 12 is in contact with, for example, the first support member 11, and the other end E2 of the aerosol-forming substrate 12 is in contact with, for example, the second support member 14.

[0015] The aerosol-forming substrate 12 contains tobacco plants or non-tobacco plants as raw materials. Tobacco plants include, for example, tobacco leaves, tobacco stems, expanded tobacco, and homogenized tobacco. Non-tobacco plants are plants other than tobacco plants. The aerosol-forming substrate 12 preferably contains parts of non-tobacco plants, such as leaves, pulp, seeds, roots (scale roots, tuberous roots, etc.), stems, tubers, bark (stem bark, bark, etc.), flowers (petals, stamens, pistils, etc.), trunks, or branches.

[0016] Here, "plants" refers to a category of living organisms in contrast to animals. Plants here include not only organisms with roots that live in a fixed location, such as grass and trees, but also algae such as microalgae and seaweed, and fungi such as mushrooms.

[0017] The aerosol-forming substrate 12 is, for example, a powder or granular aggregate obtained by mixing a dried and pulverized non-tobacco plant material with an aerosol former that generates an aerosol, microcrystalline cellulose, flavor additives, preservatives, and binders or thickeners, and then pulverizing or classifying the mixture. The aerosol-forming substrate 12 may also be in the form of a paste. Alternatively, the aerosol-forming substrate 12 may be formed by forming a raw material containing a non-tobacco plant material into a sheet and then cutting it to a predetermined width and length.

[0018] When the non-tobacco plant part is a leaf, tea can preferably be used for the aerosol-forming substrate 12. This is because tea includes various types of tea plants, and different teas can be produced from the same plant depending on the processing method. Specific examples of tea include Japanese tea, black tea, Angelica keiskei tea, sweet tea, Gynostemma pentaphyllum tea, aloe tea, ginkgo leaf tea, oolong tea, turmeric tea, Quercus salicina tea, Eleuthero tea, plantain tea, persimmon leaf tea, chamomile tea, chamomile tea, Kawara Kesseki tea, quince tea, chrysanthemum tea, gymnema tea, guava tea, wolfberry tea, soft leaf tea, black bean tea, Gennoshoko tea, brown rice tea, burdock tea, comfrey tea, bifu tea, cherry blossom tea, and sakura tea. Examples of suitable teas include flan tea, shiitake mushroom tea, perilla tea, jasmine tea, ginger tea, horsetail tea, red pepper tea, Swertia japonica tea, buckwheat tea, elm tea, dandelion tea, sweet tea, Houttuynia cordata tea, Eucommia tea, sword bean tea, elderberry tea, Ligustrum japonica tea, Job's tears tea, Habu tea, loquat leaf tea, Pu'er tea, safflower tea, pine needle tea, yerba mate tea, barley tea, Japanese beet tea, mugwort tea, eucalyptus tea, monk fruit tea, rooibos tea, and bitter melon tea. Used tea leaves may also be used for the aerosol-forming substrate 12. Using used tea leaves allows for the effective reuse of expensive teas.

[0019] Furthermore, extracts of non-tobacco plants, so-called extracts and processed products, etc., may be used for the aerosol-forming substrate 12. The extract may be in the form of a liquid, a starch syrup, a powder, a granule, a solution, etc. For example, the aerosol-forming substrate 12 may be formed by impregnating any substrate, such as a paper sheet, that can be impregnated with a solution containing a non-tobacco plant extract, etc.

[0020] Examples of the aerosol former contained in the aerosol-forming substrate 12 include glycerin, propylene glycol, sorbitol, triethylene glycol, lactic acid, diacetin (glycerin diacetate), triacetin (glycerin triacetate), triethylene glycol diacetate, triethyl citrate, isopropyl myristate, methyl stearate, dimethyl dodecanedionate, and dimethyl tetradecanedione, etc. Among these, glycerin and propylene glycol are preferred.

[0021] The microcrystalline cellulose contained in the aerosol-forming substrate 12 is formed, for example, by first producing α-cellulose from the pulp of a fibrous plant and then partially depolymerizing the α-cellulose with an acid. This microcrystalline cellulose has the soluble portion removed from the cellulose and the insoluble portion crystallized. The microcrystalline cellulose may be in the form of a powder or a suspension dispersed in a solvent such as water. Dispersion in a solvent can be achieved using, for example, a high-speed mixer or a high-pressure homogenizer.

[0022] The aerosol-forming substrate 12 preferably contains a flavor additive, such as mint, cocoa, coffee, or black tea extract, or catechin powder from tea extract. The preservative contained in the aerosol-forming substrate 12 is preferably a preservative used in food, such as sorbic acid, potassium sorbate, benzoic acid, or sodium benzoate.

[0023] The aerosol-forming substrate 12 may contain menthol and a water-insoluble crosslinked polymer (preferably polyvinylpolypyrrolidone). By combining menthol with a water-insoluble crosslinked polymer, sublimation of menthol can be effectively suppressed, and the menthol flavor can be maintained for a long period of time. Here, menthol is not limited to that obtained from natural products, but may also be a synthetic product. The aerosol-forming substrate 12 may contain peppermint, mint, peppermint oil, or other substances containing menthol.

[0024] The flavor additive may be provided in the mouthpiece 15. For example, the wall of the mouthpiece 15 may be impregnated with the flavor additive, or a capsule containing the flavor additive may be embedded in the wall of the mouthpiece 15. Alternatively, a capsule containing the flavor additive may be disposed between the mouthpiece 15 and the aerosol-forming substrate 12. When the flavor additive is encapsulated in a capsule, the smoker presses the capsule with his or her finger, causing the capsule to break and the aromatic component of the flavor additive to volatilize. This allows the smoker to generate the aromatic component at a time of their choice. The encapsulated flavor additive may be provided in the aerosol-forming substrate 12 or the second support member 14.

[0025] Examples of binders or thickeners contained in the aerosol-forming substrate 12 include guar gum, xanthan gum, gums, cellulose binders, organic acids, conjugate base salts of organic acids, polysaccharides, and combinations thereof. Examples of gums include gum arabic and locust bean gum. Examples of cellulose binders include hydroxypropyl cellulose, carboxymethyl cellulose, hydroxyethyl cellulose, methyl cellulose, and ethyl cellulose. Examples of conjugate base salts of organic acids include sodium alginate and sodium carboxymethyl cellulose. Examples of polysaccharides include caramel, agar, and pectin.

[0026] The susceptor 13 provided in the aerosol-forming substrate 12 is, for example, a plate-like member having a rectangular planar shape (XY plane). The susceptor 13 is, for example, composed of a single plate-like member. The susceptor 13 is provided, for example, along the central axis of the aerosol-forming substrate 12 and is disposed in the center of the aerosol-forming substrate 12 in the XZ plane. The size of the susceptor 13 in the Y direction (hereinafter referred to as the length) is approximately the same as the size of the aerosol-forming substrate 12 in the Y direction, and the susceptor 13 is exposed at least at one end E1 of the aerosol-forming substrate 12. The susceptor 13 may also be exposed at the other end E2 of the aerosol-forming substrate 12. The length of the susceptor 13 is, for example, 12 mm to 18 mm. The width (size in the X direction) of the susceptor 13 is, for example, 1.0 mm to 2.5 mm. The thickness (size in the Z direction) of the susceptor 13 is, for example, 0.11 to 0.63 mm.

[0027] The susceptor 13 is configured to be inductively heated. The susceptor 13 is inserted into a smoking device (for example, the smoking device 20 in FIG. 3 described below), and is inductively heated by passing an induction current through the susceptor 13. This heats the aerosol-forming substrate 12 to a sufficient temperature, generating an aerosol.

[0028] The susceptor 13 is made of, for example, an alloy containing multiple magnetic metal materials. These multiple magnetic metal materials have different Curie temperatures. The magnetic metal materials include ferromagnetic metal materials, paramagnetic metal materials, and diamagnetic metal materials. Ferromagnetic metal materials are materials that become strongly magnetized in the same direction as the external magnetic field when an external magnetic field is applied and retain their strong magnetism even when the external magnetic field is removed, such as iron, nickel, cobalt, and ferritic stainless steel. The relative permeability of ferromagnetic metal materials is significantly greater than 1; for example, the relative permeability of iron is approximately 5000, that of nickel is approximately 600, that of cobalt is approximately 250, and that of ferritic stainless steel is approximately 1000 to 1800.

[0029] Paramagnetic metallic materials are materials that, when an external magnetic field is applied, become weakly magnetized in the same direction as the external magnetic field, and lose their magnetism when the external magnetic field is reduced to zero, such as aluminum, chromium, platinum, and manganese. The relative permeability of paramagnetic metallic materials is slightly greater than 1; for example, the relative permeability of aluminum is approximately 1.000021, that of platinum is approximately 1.000265, and that of manganese is approximately 1.000830.

[0030] Diamagnetic metal materials are materials that, when an external magnetic field is applied, become weakly magnetized in the opposite direction to the external magnetic field, and lose their magnetism when the external magnetic field is reduced to zero, such as copper, graphite, and bismuth.The relative permeability of diamagnetic metal materials is slightly less than 1; for example, the relative permeability of copper is about 0.999990, that of graphite is about 0.99980, and that of bismuth is about 0.999834.

[0031] When an AC magnetic field is generated in a ferromagnetic metal material, an induced current flows, generating Joule heat, and heat (hysteresis loss) is generated due to friction and vibration between molecules. Therefore, ferromagnetic metal materials are more easily induction heated than paramagnetic metal materials and diamagnetic metal materials. For this reason, it is preferable that the susceptor 13 contain multiple ferromagnetic metal materials with different Curie temperatures.

[0032] Furthermore, ferromagnetic metal materials have high Curie temperatures; for example, the Curie temperature of nickel is approximately 358°C. Therefore, even if the smoking article cartridge 10 is heated to a high temperature, such as 200°C, the susceptor 13 does not reach its Curie temperature and maintains its ferromagnetic properties. This allows for stable heating of the aerosol-forming substrate 12. The susceptor 13 is made of an alloy containing, for example, nickel, chromium, aluminum, silicon, manganese, carbon, phosphorus, sulfur, and iron. The susceptor 13 may be made of an alloy containing iron and nickel, or may be made of an alloy containing iron and cobalt.

[0033] The susceptor 13 may be made of an alloy containing a ferromagnetic metal material and a paramagnetic metal material, such as an alloy containing iron, chromium, and aluminum. The susceptor 13 may be made of an alloy containing a ferromagnetic metal material and a diamagnetic metal material, such as an alloy containing iron and copper.

[0034] The second support member 14, which is provided between the aerosol-forming substrate 12 and the mouthpiece 15, supports the other end E2 of the aerosol-forming substrate 12 and also plays a role in cooling the aerosol generated in the aerosol-forming substrate 12. The second support member 14 is, for example, in contact with the other end E2 of the aerosol-forming substrate 12. The second support member 14 is, for example, formed in a cylindrical shape having approximately the same diameter as the aerosol-forming substrate 12, and its side surface is in contact with the packaging member 16. This fixes the position of the second support member 14 in the Y-axis direction. The side surface of the second support member 14 may be adhered to the packaging member 16.

[0035] A flow path 14P extending in the Y-axis direction is provided in the second support member 14. The flow path 14P is configured by, for example, a through-hole penetrating the second support member 14 in the Y-axis direction. Gas passes between the aerosol-forming substrate 12 and the mouthpiece 15 in the Y-axis direction via the flow path 14P.

[0036] The second support member 14 is, for example, an assembly of multiple cylindrical members, and a flow path 14P is formed by the hollow of each cylindrical member. That is, multiple flow paths 14P are provided in the second support member 14. By forming the second support member 14 from multiple cylindrical members, the surface area of ​​the second support member 14 is increased, making it possible to improve the cooling function. The second support member 14 may be formed from a single cylindrical member. The size of the second support member 14 is, for example, an outer diameter of 4.0 mm to 7.5 mm, and a length in the Y direction (length along the central axis) of 50 mm or less. Note that the second support member 14 may have a size and shape different from those exemplified above, depending on its function, configuration, etc.

[0037] The second support member 14 is preferably made of a heat-resistant material. Examples of heat-resistant materials include rubber-based materials such as silicone rubber. For example, the second support member 14 can be formed from multiple cylindrical members formed by rolling up silicone rubber sheets. By making the second support member 14 from a heat-resistant material, it becomes possible to provide the second support member 14 adjacent to the aerosol-forming substrate 12. In addition to the rubber-based materials, the second support member 14 may also be made of paper-based materials, resin-based materials, metal-based materials, or the like, or may be made using sheets of these materials. Examples of paper-based materials include paper and cardboard, and examples of resin-based materials include polymers.

[0038] The second support member 14 may be formed of a single cylindrical member, and a through-hole may be provided in this cylindrical member to form the flow path 14P. The cylindrical member forming the second support member 14 may contain, for example, glass, ceramic, or a heat-resistant resin material.

[0039] The mouthpiece 15 is provided in contact with the second support member 14 and is connected to the other end E2 of the aerosol-forming substrate 12 via the second support member 14. This mouthpiece 15 constitutes the other end of the smoking device cartridge 10 in the Y direction, i.e., the mouthpiece. The mouthpiece 15 is made of, for example, paper. The mouthpiece 15 may include a filter for removing fine particles, such as a cellulose acetate filter. This filter filters out some of the fine particles in the water vapor and aerosol generated by the aerosol-forming substrate 12.

[0040] The first support member 11 faces the second support member 14 with the aerosol-forming substrate 12 therebetween. The first support member 11 supports one end E1 of the aerosol-forming substrate 12, which contains a susceptor 13 therein. The first support member 11 supports one end E1 of the aerosol-forming substrate 12, and the second support member 14 supports the other end E2 of the aerosol-forming substrate 12, thereby maintaining the positions of the aerosol-forming substrate 12 and the susceptor 13 in the aerosol-forming substrate 12 in the Y direction.

[0041] The first support member 11 is configured, for example, by a plate-like member having a planar shape of a decagonal star (deca-pointed star) (FIG. 2). The first support member 11 has, for example, a facing portion 111 facing the susceptor 13, and a plurality of contact portions 112 provided on the outer side of the facing portion 111 and in contact with the packaging member 16. A gap G is provided between the first support member 11 and the packaging member 16. FIG. 1(A) shows a YZ cross section at a position corresponding to the contact portion 112, and FIG. 1(B) shows a YZ cross section at a position corresponding to the gap G.

[0042] The facing portion 111 is disposed at a position facing the susceptor 13, in other words, on an extension of the susceptor 13. The facing portion 111 is configured, for example, by the central portion of the XZ plane. The facing portion 111 covers the susceptor 13, and therefore, it is possible to protect the susceptor 13 from the outside.

[0043] Each of the multiple contact portions 112 is formed by, for example, a vertex of the first support member 11. The contact portions 112 may be in point contact with the packaging member 16 or in surface contact. Each of the multiple contact portions 112 may be adhered to the packaging member 16. When the first support member 11 has the contact portions 112, the position of the first support member 11 in the Y direction is fixed. When the first support member 11 has the multiple contact portions 112, the position of the first support member 11 in the Y direction can be fixed more stably.

[0044] The gap G is provided, for example, between adjacent contact portions 112. In this gap G, the first support member 11 is spaced from the packaging member 16, and one end E1 of the aerosol-forming substrate 12 is exposed ( FIG. 1(B) ). This gap G ensures a flow path for gas within the cartridge 10 for a smoking article. More specifically, gas flows into the one end E1 of the aerosol-forming substrate 12 from the outside through the gap G, and gas is discharged from the one end E1 of the aerosol-forming substrate 12 to the outside of the cartridge 10 for a smoking article. By providing multiple gaps G in the cartridge 10 for a smoking article, the inflow and discharge of gas can be made more efficient.

[0045] The first support member 11, which has a shape that forms this gap G, has a planar shape with projections and recesses, such as a star-shaped polygon (see, for example, FIG. 2). This type of first support member 11 is easier to handle in the production process than a shape without projections and recesses. It also generates less static electricity. This improves productivity.

[0046] The first support member 11 is preferably made of a non-porous material and is heat-resistant. Since the cartridge 10 for a smoking article has a gap G, a gas flow path is ensured even when a first support member 11 made of a non-porous material is used. Non-porous materials are easier to mold and handle than porous materials. Therefore, by using a non-porous material to form the first support member 11, the degree of freedom in the shape of the first support member 11 can be increased. Furthermore, it is also possible to form marks or the like on the first support member 11 to enhance its aesthetic appeal.

[0047] Examples of heat-resistant non-porous materials include rubber-based materials, resin-based materials, metal-based materials, and paper-based materials, and the first support member 11 includes at least one of these. Examples of rubber-based materials include silicone rubber, examples of resin-based materials include polypropylene, polyethylene, acrylic, vinyl chloride, fluororesin, PET (Polyethyleneterephthalate), and PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene), and examples of metal-based materials include aluminum (Al), iron (Fe), and brass (Cu-Zn). Examples of paper-based materials include compression-molded paper and cardboard.

[0048] The first support member 11 is preferably configured to be detachable from the smoking article cartridge 10. For example, after removing the first support member 11 from the smoking article cartridge 10, the smoking article cartridge 10 can be inserted into a smoking article containing a heating element. The heating element is inserted into the aerosol-forming substrate 12 and heats it to generate aerosol. The heating element is made of metal, for example, having a blade, rod, pin, triangular, or polygonal shape. The heating element may have a shape such as a cylinder, prism, cone, or pyramid, or may have a shape other than those mentioned above. Because the first support member 11 is configured to be detachable from the smoking article cartridge 10, the smoking article cartridge 10 can be used with both a smoking article containing a heating element and a smoking article containing an induction heating element (e.g., smoking article 20 in FIG. 3, described below). In other words, a hybrid cartridge can be realized.

[0049] The packaging member 16 covers the first support member 11, the aerosol-forming substrate 12, the second support member 14, and the mouthpiece 15 in the circumferential direction (the circumferential direction of the aerosol-forming substrate 12). For example, the packaging member 16 can be formed by wrapping a sheet-like member such as paper around the first support member 11, the aerosol-forming substrate 12, the second support member 14, and the mouthpiece 15 in the circumferential direction. The packaging member 16 may also be formed using a plurality of sheet-like members.

[0050] <How to use the smoking cartridge 10> 3 shows an example of how to use the smoking article cartridge 10. The smoking article cartridge 10 is used by attaching it to an induction-heated smoking article 20. The smoking article 20 includes an insertion port 21, a coil 22, and a circuit board (not shown).

[0051] The insertion port 21 is a hole for inserting the smoking article cartridge 10 into the smoking article 20, and is provided extending in a predetermined direction from an end of the smoking article 20. The smoking article cartridge 10 is inserted into the smoking article 20 through this insertion port 21. The coil 22 is provided to surround the circumferential direction of the smoking article cartridge 10 inserted into the smoking article 20. The circuit board includes a CPU that controls the supply of alternating current to the coil 22.

[0052] A smoker first inserts the smoking article cartridge 10 into the insertion opening 21 with the first support member 11 facing the insertion opening 21. At this time, because the first support member 11 has higher rigidity than the aerosol-forming substrate 12, the smoking article cartridge 10 is less likely to break than if the first support member 11 were not provided. Furthermore, the smoker can more easily insert the smoking article cartridge 10 into the insertion opening 21 of the smoking article 20.

[0053] When a smoker inserts smoking article cartridge 10 into insertion port 21 of smoking article 20 and then turns on the smoking article 20, an alternating current is supplied to coil 22 by the circuit board. This causes an induced current to flow through susceptor 13 provided in aerosol-forming substrate 12, generating heat in susceptor 13 due to Joule heat and hysteresis loss. In other words, susceptor 13 is inductively heated. The heat transferred from this inductively heated susceptor 13 heats the aerosol-forming substrate 12 around susceptor 13, generating an aerosol.

[0054] When the smoker holds the mouthpiece 15 between his or her mouth and inhales, air flows from the outside of the smoking article cartridge 10 into one end E1 of the aerosol-forming substrate 12 through the gap G between the packaging member 16 and the first support member 11. This air inflow causes the aerosol generated in the aerosol-forming substrate 12 to flow into the smoker's mouth via the flow path 14P of the second support member 14 and the mouthpiece 15. At this time, the smoking article cartridge 10 has multiple gaps G, which form multiple gas flow paths. This allows the aerosol to flow efficiently into the smoker's mouth. Furthermore, because the multiple airflows mix and flow into the smoker's mouth, the smoker can enjoy a richer flavor and taste. Furthermore, the reduced inhalation resistance allows the aerosol to flow more smoothly into the smoker's mouth.

[0055] Furthermore, efficient air convection occurs through the gap G of the smoking article cartridge 10, dispersing the heat generated by the susceptor 13 and preventing excessive temperature rises inside the smoking article 20. This prevents deterioration of the smoking article 20 and allows it to be used for a longer period of time.

[0056] <Functions and Effects of the First Support Member 11 and the Smoking Article Cartridge 10> In the smoking article cartridge 10 of this embodiment, the first support member 11 is provided, which supports one end E1 of the aerosol-forming substrate 12 containing the susceptor 13 therein. This allows the one end E1 of the aerosol-forming substrate 12 to be maintained at a predetermined position in the Y direction. Furthermore, by providing the first support member 11, the one end E1 of the aerosol-forming substrate 12 is less likely to be exposed to the outside, thereby reducing damage to the aerosol-forming substrate 12 caused by, for example, physical or chemical contact with the one end E1 of the aerosol-forming substrate 12. Furthermore, tea leaves and the like contained in the aerosol-forming substrate 12 are less likely to crumble from the one end E1 of the aerosol-forming substrate 12. In addition, the first support member 11 has an opposing portion 111, which allows the susceptor 13 to be more effectively protected and supported.

[0057] Furthermore, a gap G is provided between the first support member 11 and the packaging member 16. This allows gas to flow from the outside into one end E1 of the aerosol-forming substrate 12 through this gap G, and also allows gas to be discharged from one end E1 of the aerosol-forming substrate 12 to the outside. That is, a gas flow path is secured within the smoking article cartridge 10. Therefore, the smoking article cartridge 10 and the first support member 11 can secure a gas flow path within the cartridge while supporting the susceptor 13 and the aerosol-forming substrate 12.

[0058] Furthermore, in the smoking article cartridge 10, the other end E2 of the aerosol-forming substrate 12 is supported by the second support member 14. In other words, both ends (one end E1 and the other end E2) of the aerosol-forming substrate 12 are supported by the first support member 11 and the second support member 14, making it possible to compress the aerosol-forming substrate 12. This allows the aerosol-forming substrate 12 to be stably held. In particular, when the aerosol-forming substrate 12 contains a granular substance, the aerosol-forming substrate 12 is less likely to crumble and can be held effectively.

[0059] Below, we will explain modifications of the smoking article cartridge described in the above embodiment. In order to avoid duplication, detailed explanations of components similar to those of the smoking article cartridge described in the above embodiment will be omitted.

[0060] [Variation 1] Figure 4 shows the cross-sectional (YZ cross-section) configuration of a smoking article cartridge (smoking article cartridge 10A) according to Modification 1. This smoking article cartridge 10A has a membrane member 17 between one end E1 of the aerosol-forming substrate 12 and the first support member 11. In this respect, the smoking article cartridge 10A differs from the smoking article cartridge 10 of the above embodiment (Figures 1(A)(B)). Apart from this, the smoking article cartridge 10A according to Modification 1 has the same configuration as the smoking article cartridge 10 described in the above embodiment, and achieves the same effects.

[0061] The membrane member 17 is made of a porous material, a nonwoven fabric, or the like. Specifically, the membrane member 17 can be made of a metal-based material, a paper-based material, a resin-based material, a fiber-based material, a rubber-based material, or the like. Examples of metal-based materials include aluminum (Al), iron (Fe), and brass (Cu-Zn). Metal-based materials also include sintered metals and sintered metal powders. Examples of paper-based materials include paper, compression-molded paper, and cardboard. Examples of resin-based materials include polypropylene, polyethylene, polyester, acrylic, vinyl chloride, fluororesin, PET, and PTFE. Examples of fiber-based materials include acetate (acetylcellulose), diacetate, triacetate, and polyester. Examples of rubber-based materials include silicone rubber. The membrane member 17 may also be made of glass, borosilicate glass, ceramic, quartz, or the like.

[0062] By providing such a film-like member 17, leakage of the constituent material of the aerosol-forming substrate 12 due to the gap G can be suppressed, and the aerosol-forming substrate 12 can be held.

[0063] [Variation 2] FIG. 5 shows a cross-sectional (YZ cross-section) configuration of a smoking article cartridge (smoking article cartridge 10B) according to Modification 2. This smoking article cartridge 10B has, in this order along the Y direction, a first support member 11, an aerosol-forming substrate 12 including a susceptor 13, and a mouthpiece 15, with the mouthpiece 15 contacting the other end E2 of the aerosol-forming substrate 12. In other words, the smoking article cartridge 10B does not have a support member (second support member 14 in FIG. 1). In this respect, the smoking article cartridge 10B differs from the smoking article cartridge 10 (FIG. 1) of the above embodiment. Except for this, the smoking article cartridge 10B according to Modification 2 has the same configuration as the smoking article cartridge 10 described in the above embodiment, and achieves the same effects.

[0064] In the cartridge 10B for a smoking article, the aerosol-forming substrate 12 is supported by a packaging member 16. In other words, by using a packaging member 16 that can support the aerosol-forming substrate 12, it is possible to omit the support member. Because such a cartridge 10B for a smoking article does not require a support member, it is possible to reduce the number of parts and lower costs.

[0065] [Variation 3] Figure 6 shows the cross-sectional (YZ cross-section) configuration of a smoking article cartridge (smoking article cartridge 10C) according to Modification 3. In this smoking article cartridge 10C, a hole 16H is provided in the packaging member 16. In this respect, the smoking article cartridge 10C differs from the smoking article cartridge 10 (Figure 1) of the above embodiment. Apart from this, the smoking article cartridge 10C according to Modification 3 has the same configuration as the smoking article cartridge 10 described in the above embodiment, and achieves the same effects.

[0066] The hole 16H is provided so as to penetrate the packaging member 16 in the thickness direction. This hole 16H reaches, for example, the aerosol-forming substrate 12. In other words, the hole 16H is provided in the packaging member 16 around the aerosol-forming substrate 12. The packaging member 16 may have multiple hole portions 16H or may have only one hole portion 16H. This hole portion 16H functions as a flow path for gas inside the cartridge. By providing the hole 16H in the packaging member 16 around the aerosol-forming substrate 12, it is possible to more efficiently allow external air to flow into the aerosol-forming substrate 12. The hole portion 16H may be provided at another position, such as around the second support member 14.

[0067] In the cartridge 10C for a smoking article, the gap G between the first support member 11 and the packaging member 16, as well as the hole 16H of the packaging member 16, function as a flow path for gas within the cartridge. Specifically, air flowing in through the gap G flows along the axial direction (Y direction) of the aerosol-forming substrate 12, and then flows through the hole 16H, passing through the outer peripheral surface of the aerosol-forming substrate 12 and into the interior thereof. This causes the aerosol near the central axis of the aerosol-forming substrate 12, which has been heated by the susceptor 13, to mix with the aerosol on the outer peripheral side of the aerosol-forming substrate 12, which has a lower temperature. Therefore, by using the cartridge 10C for a smoking article, smokers can obtain a stronger flavor and taste compared to the cartridge 10 for a smoking article.

[0068] [Variation 4] Figure 7 shows the cross-sectional (YZ cross-sectional) configuration of a smoking article cartridge (smoking article cartridge 10D) according to Modification 4. In this smoking article cartridge 10D, the susceptor 13 is fixed to the first support member 11. In this respect, the smoking article cartridge 10D differs from the smoking article cartridge 10 (Figure 1) of the above embodiment. Apart from this, the smoking article cartridge 10D according to Modification 4 has the same configuration as the smoking article cartridge 10 described in the above embodiment, and achieves the same effects.

[0069] The susceptor 13 is fixed, for example, by being inserted into an insertion hole provided in the first support member 11. The susceptor 13 may be inserted and fixed to the first support member 11 by pressing the susceptor 13 against the first support member 11. Alternatively, the susceptor 13 may be fixed to the first support member 11 by an adhesive or the like.

[0070] In this cartridge 10D for a smoking article, when the first support member 11 is removed from the cartridge 10D for a smoking article, the susceptor 13 comes out of the aerosol-forming substrate 12 together with the first support member 11. This makes it easier to use the cartridge 10D for a smoking article with a smoking article that includes a heating element.

[0071] [Variation 5] Figure 8 shows the cross-sectional (YZ cross-sectional) configuration of a smoking article cartridge (smoking article cartridge 10E) according to Modification 5. In this smoking article cartridge 10E, a notch (notch 16C) is provided in the packaging member 16. In this respect, the smoking article cartridge 10E differs from the smoking article cartridge 10 (Figure 1) of the above embodiment. Apart from this, the smoking article cartridge 10E according to Modification 5 has the same configuration as the smoking article cartridge 10 described in the above embodiment, and achieves the same effects.

[0072] The notch 16C provided in the packaging member 16 is provided at a position corresponding to the region from one end E1 of the aerosol-forming substrate 12 to the first support member 11. The notch 16C may be provided at a position corresponding to the one end E1, or at a position corresponding to the first support member 11. The notch 16C may be provided along the entire circumference of the packaging member 16, or may be provided on a part of the circumference. The depth of the notch 16C may be such that it breaks when a smoker applies a light force to it.

[0073] In this cartridge 10E for a smoking article, when a smoker applies force to the slit 16C, the packaging member 16 breaks and the first support member 11 comes off from the cartridge 10E for a smoking article, making it easier for the smoker to use the cartridge 10E for a smoking article with a smoking article that includes a heating element.

[0074] [Other Modifications] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications can be made within the scope of the claims.

[0075] For example, in the above embodiment, the planar shape of the first support member 11 is a star-shaped decagon (FIG. 2), but the first support member 11 may have another planar shape.

[0076] 9A to 9C show other examples of the planar shape of the first support member 11. The first support member 11 may have a planar shape of a star-shaped polygon other than a decagonal star, for example, a pentagonal star (five-pointed star) (FIG. 9A). The first support member 11 may have a planar shape of a polygon such as a pentagon or decagon. Alternatively, the first support member 11 may be made of rod-shaped members. For example, the first support member 11 may be made by crossing a plurality of rod-shaped members (FIGS. 9B and 9C).

[0077] Furthermore, in the above-described embodiments and variant examples, examples have been described in which multiple gaps G are provided between the first support member 11 and the packaging member 16, but there may also be only one gap G between the first support member 11 and the packaging member 16.

[0078] 10 shows an example of the configuration of one end face (XZ end face) of a smoking article cartridge having one gap G. In this way, there may be only one gap G between the first support member 11 and the packaging member 16. This makes it easier for the first support member 11 and the packaging member 16 to come into close contact with each other, making it easier to hold the first support member 11 stably.

[0079] Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment and modified example, an example was described in which both end faces (XZ cross section) of the first support member 11 have the same shape in the extension direction (Y direction) of the aerosol-forming substrate 12, but the both end faces of the first support member 11 may have different shapes from each other.

[0080] Figure 11 shows the configuration of a smoking article cartridge in which both end faces of the first support member 11 have different shapes. For example, in this smoking article cartridge, one end face of the first support member 11 has a star-shaped decagonal planar shape (e.g., Figure 2), and the other end face has a substantially circular planar shape (e.g., Figure 10). The cross-sectional shape (XZ cross-section) of the first support member 11 gradually changes along the Y direction. The cross-sectional shape of the first support member 11 may change stepwise at predetermined positions in the Y direction.

[0081] Furthermore, in the above-described embodiments and variants, examples have been illustrated in which the packaging member 16 covers all of the first support member 11, the aerosol-forming substrate 12, the second support member 14, and the mouthpiece 15 (for example, Figure 1), but portions of the first support member 11, the aerosol-forming substrate 12, the second support member 14, and the mouthpiece 15 may be exposed from the packaging member 16.

[0082] 12 shows another example of covering with the packaging member 16. For example, a part of the first support member 11 may protrude from the packaging member 16 and be exposed from the packaging member 16 in this manner.

[0083] Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, an example has been described in which the susceptor 13 is provided on the central axis of the aerosol-forming substrate 12, but the susceptor 13 may be disposed at a position deviated from the central axis of the aerosol-forming substrate 12. In other words, the facing portion 111 of the first support member 11 may be provided at a position deviated from the center of the first support member 11 in the XZ plane.

[0084] 13 shows another example of covering with a packaging member 16. In this manner, the susceptor 13 may be disposed at a position deviated from the central axis of the aerosol-forming substrate 12. [Explanation of symbols]

[0085] 10. Cartridges for smoking devices; 11 first support member, 111 Opposite part, 112 Contact part, 12 aerosol-forming substrates; 13 susceptor, 14 second support member, 14P flow path 15 mouthpieces, 16 Packaging materials, 17 membrane-like member, 20 smoking accessories, 21 insertion slot, 22 coils.

Claims

Claim 1 A smoking article cartridge for use with an inductively heated smoking article, comprising: an aerosol-forming substrate having a predetermined longitudinal direction and a circumferential direction and containing a tobacco plant or a non-tobacco plant as a raw material; a susceptor provided within the aerosol-forming substrate and configured to be inductively heatable; a packaging member that covers the aerosol-forming substrate in the circumferential direction; a first support member that contacts the packaging member and supports one end of the aerosol-forming substrate in the longitudinal direction, which includes the susceptor therein; a gap is provided between the first support member and the packaging member; the first support member includes an opposing portion facing the susceptor and a contact portion provided outside the opposing portion and contacting the packaging member, the smoking article cartridge.

Images