Aerosol-generating article having a wrapper containing tobacco leaf portions

Abstract

The present invention relates to an aerosol-generating article for use in a non-combustion aerosol generating device, comprising a filtering mouthpiece, an aerosol-generating segment, and a spacer element located between the aerosol-generating segment and the filtering mouthpiece. The aerosol-generating article is at least partially enclosed by a first wrapper, the first wrapper comprising an outer surface and an inner surface. Furthermore, the aerosol-generating article extends in a longitudinal direction and a circumferential direction. According to the present invention, the first wrapper comprises at least one tobacco portion. The present invention also relates to a method of manufacturing such an aerosol-generating article.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an aerosol-generating article having a wrapper including a tobacco portion for use in a non-combustion aerosol generating device. The present invention also relates to a method of making such an aerosol-generating article. [Background technology]

[0002] Customers who use heated non-combustion vapor devices are often accustomed to a particular type of stick. Such sticks can be used in vapor devices with both external and internal heating systems, and for this reason, they are often wrapped in a paper wrapper without aluminum foil paper. The use of aluminum foil paper makes it difficult to recycle heated non-combustion sticks. However, sticks without aluminum foil can give users an unpleasant paper taste during smoking sessions in devices with external heating systems. EP 3503747B1 describes an aerosol-generating article that includes an aerosol-forming material and a tobacco-containing wrapper that surrounds and contacts the aerosol-generating material. The tobacco-containing wrapper improves the initial odor of the aerosol-generating article. However, during use in devices with internal heating systems, such sticks can develop wetting agent stains on the outer packaging, which can significantly reduce the stability of the stick structure. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0003] It is therefore an object of the present invention to improve the properties of an aerosol-generating smoking article according to taste, aesthetic appearance and its recyclability. Preferably, such an aerosol-generating article can be used in all common non-combustion aerosol generating devices. Furthermore, it is also an object of the present invention to provide a method for producing said aerosol-generating article. [Means for solving the problem]

[0004] The above requirements are met by the object of claim 1. Preferred embodiments are the object of the dependent claims.

[0005] The aerosol-generating article for use in a non-combustion aerosol generating device includes a filtering mouthpiece, an aerosol-generating segment, and a spacer element. Furthermore, the aerosol-generating article extends in a longitudinal and circumferential direction. The spacer element may additionally function as a cooling element to effectively reduce the temperature of the generated aerosol before it reaches the filtering mouthpiece. The spacer element is located between the aerosol-generating segment and the filtering mouthpiece. The spacer element preferably includes a tubular element, such as a hollow or filled paper or polymer tube. The filling material in the tube may be, for example, a PLA wrap or the like. The article may further include a support element between the cooling element and the aerosol-generating segment. The support element is configured to support and maintain the aerosol material in a predetermined position within the segment. Furthermore, the support element may be formed from a tubular element that is thicker, more rigid, and / or shorter than the spacer element. The support element is optional and may be replaced with a longer spacer element having sufficient stiffness and suitable thickness. The aerosol-generating article is at least partially wrapped by a first wrapper. According to the present invention, the first wrapper includes an outer surface and an inner surface. Additionally, the first wrapper includes at least one tobacco leaf portion. The tobacco leaf portion is a portion of the leaf of a tobacco plant that has been preformed, harvested, and aged.

[0006] The tobacco leaf portion is preferably a part of the leaf of a common tobacco plant. Such tobacco plant leaves are known from smoking products such as cigars or cigarillos. Preferably, the tobacco leaf is harvested and aged by a curing process. Preferably, the tobacco leaf portion to be included in the aerosol-generating article is preformed into elongated pieces. Preferably, the elongated pieces and the first wrapper for use as the tobacco leaf portion comprise the same or at least similar dimensions, at least in the wrapped state of the aerosol-generating article. The tobacco leaf portion preferably comprises nicotine and / or other volatile organic compounds. Thus, an aerosol-generating article surrounded by a first wrapper comprising a tobacco leaf portion may have an increased content of nicotine and / or other volatile organic compounds compared to a normal aerosol-generating article in which the wrapper comprises a paper or cellulose-based material and / or metal.

[0007] Preferably, the aerosol-generation segment, the spacer element and the filtering mouthpiece extend along the length of the article. Also, preferably, the aerosol-generation segment forms a distal end of the article and the filtering mouthpiece forms a proximal end of the aerosol-generating article. The aerosol-generation segment, the spacer element and the filtering mouthpiece and optionally other elements (e.g. the support element) preferably comprise a rod or tubular shape that is preferably completely surrounded by the first wrapper.

[0008] However, the tobacco portion contained in or on the first wrapper of the aerosol-generating article is preferably usable in an aerosol-generating device having an external and / or internal heating system as described above. Ideally, an aerosol-generating article having a tobacco portion used in a device having an external heating system produces an enhanced tobacco taste instead of an unpleasant paper taste. The tobacco portion, when heated, affects the characteristics of the generated aerosol or vapor. It has been found that the wrapper in general can affect the composition and / or taste of the vapor of the aerosol-generating article in particular. Thus, the effect depends on the material or wrapper (e.g., coating) used as the first wrapper. The tobacco portion formed as or on the first wrapper of the aerosol-generating article can impart constituents to the vapor. The interaction of the generated aerosol or vapor with the tobacco portion of the aerosol-generating article increases the true tobacco taste.

[0009] Furthermore, the aerosol-generating article with the tobacco leaf portion reduces the contamination of the wrapper by moisturizers, liquid solvents or humectants that migrate from the aerosol-generating segment, such as glycerol or propylene glycol. The tobacco leaf portion, either attached to or composed of the first wrapper, contributes to maintaining the physical and chemical stability of the aerosol-generating article, especially when the stability is affected by condensed liquid. On the one hand, the tobacco leaf portion can increase the mechanical properties of the aerosol-generating article, especially the stiffness and tear resistance, compared to conventional HnB sticks. On the other hand, the tobacco leaf portion can provide additional support to the structure of the aerosol-generating article, thereby increasing the stability of the article. For this role, the tobacco leaf portion can be attached to the most stressed part of the structure to function as a support.

[0010] Additionally, the tobacco portion attached to at least the distal end of the aerosol-generating article can prevent or mask undesirable discoloration (e.g., browning) after heating in a heating system, especially an external heating system, and, because the tobacco portion is located at least at the distal end of the aerosol-generating article, can provide a stronger tobacco taste during a vaping session.

[0011] Preferably, the aerosol-generating segment includes a tobacco product or substrate, including any one or any combination of tobacco leaf, tobacco pulp, tobacco extract, tobacco oil, cured tobacco, shredded tobacco leaf, and homogenized tobacco. Preferably, the reconstituted tobacco may include tobacco cast sheets, reconstituted tobacco paper, reconstituted tobacco laminates, reconstituted tobacco extrudates, and combinations thereof. The tobacco substrate may further include cellulose pulp, fiber, or filler. The intensity of the volatile composition and tobacco aroma in the generated aerosol may be adjusted by the type of tobacco product or material, tobacco grade, origin, blend, etc. For example, smaller tobacco particles may provide a stronger tobacco taste and release a higher volatile content compared to larger tobacco particles of the same grade, since the smaller particles have a greater surface contact with the entrained air.

[0012] It is conceivable that the first wrapper extends only partially circumferentially and / or longitudinally along the aerosol-generating article. Preferably, the filtering mouthpiece and / or the aerosol-generating segment include portions that are not covered by the first wrapper. Thus, the length of the first wrapper may be less than the overall length of the aerosol-generating article measured along the longitudinal direction. Since tobacco leaf is relatively expensive, it is conceivable that the tobacco leaf portion includes dimensions that are smaller than the circumferential and / or longitudinal dimensions of the first wrapper. By utilizing a smaller tobacco leaf portion as the outer surface of the aerosol-generating article, production costs may be reduced, for example, since small remaining pieces of tobacco leaf from cigar production may be used. The tobacco leaf portion may be formed from one piece or several individual pieces, or may be assembled into one single sheet. For example, the pieces or sheets may be rolled into a spirally wound leaf portion.

[0013] According to another embodiment, the tobacco portion extends along a length and includes a length corresponding to the length of the aerosol-generating article. An aerosol-generating article that is completely circumferentially and longitudinally wrapped with at least one tobacco portion while leaving the air inlet end and the aerosol outlet end unwrapped is advantageous since difficult preparation processes such as wrapping and / or gluing are avoided.

[0014] It is envisaged that at least one tobacco portion is provided as a first wrapper of the aerosol-generating article. Preferably, the tobacco portion circumferentially wraps around the aerosol-generating segment, the spacer element and / or the filtering mouthpiece.

[0015] It is also conceivable to provide more than one, preferably two, also preferably three or more, elongated tobacco portions in order to improve the recycling of the whole tobacco. Preferably, the tobacco portions are attached to the first wrapper by adhesive. Several tobacco portions may be distributed over the entire outer and / or inner surface of the first wrapper. In this case, the first wrapper is a mechanical support element and carries the tobacco portions on its outer and / or inner surface. It is also conceivable that the distributed tobacco portions create a pattern. This makes it possible to achieve a recognition value for the aerosol-generating article without the need to color or mark the first wrapper.

[0016] In another embodiment, the first wrapper is formed of tobacco and non-tobacco portions that are alternately distributed as stripes. Preferably, the tobacco and non-tobacco stripes extend along the length of the aerosol generating device. This allows for tobacco stripes to be located in preferred areas, such as areas susceptible to potential discoloration or staining, without requiring the use of dyes, inks or colorants. Additionally, tobacco stripes located in preferred areas of the article, such as areas susceptible to humidification from condensation, can improve stability.

[0017] According to another embodiment, the tobacco portion extends circumferentially and includes a circumference that corresponds to the circumference of the aerosol-generating article.

[0018] It is envisaged that the tobacco portion is attached to the inner and / or outer surface of the first wrapper, preferably as a ring, and preferably the tobacco ring circumferentially surrounds the aerosol-generating article.

[0019] It is also conceivable that only one ring of tobacco portions is attached to the inner and / or outer surface of the first wrapper, in which case the ring is preferably located at the distal end of the aerosol-generating article, in particular the ring of tobacco portions preferably surrounds the aerosol-generating segment of the aerosol-generating article.

[0020] The ring of tobacco leaf portion can replace at least one missing portion of the first wrapper. The missing portion of the first wrapper preferably comprises a smaller dimension compared to the dimension of the ring from the tobacco leaf portion. In this case, the tobacco leaf portion comprises at least one adhesive surface that can be glued to a portion or edge of the first wrapper, thereby replacing the missing portion with the tobacco leaf portion. Preferably, the adhesive surface comprises a length in the range of at least 2 mm to 7 mm measured along the length of the article.

[0021] According to another embodiment, the tobacco leaf portion is arranged as an outer surface and / or an inner surface of at least the first wrapper.

[0022] It is conceivable that the tobacco portion is at least a part of the first wrapper. In this case, the outer and inner surfaces of the tobacco portion are preferably part of the outer and inner surfaces of the first wrapper. For example, the first wrapper of the aerosol-generating article may include at least one cutout to which the tobacco portion is attached. Alternatively, the first wrapper may include at least two parts that can be positioned next to the tobacco portion. In this case, the tobacco portion preferably surrounds at least the spacer element, and each of the first wrapper parts preferably surrounds the filtering mouthpiece and the aerosol-generating segment.

[0023] It is also conceivable that a tobacco portion is attached to the outer and / or inner surface of the first wrapper, thereby creating a second wrapper of the aerosol-generating article. Preferably, the tobacco portion as the second wrapper comprises similar dimensions to the first wrapper. Alternatively, the tobacco portion as the second wrapper comprises smaller or larger dimensions than the first wrapper of the aerosol-generating article. The first wrapper may be made of, for example, paper or a cellulose-based material.

[0024] The tobacco portion is preferably a layer of the first wrapper that is attached to the outer or inner surface of the second layer of the first wrapper by adhesive. Thus, the first wrapper may include two layers. The layers may be superimposed or at least overlap. Preferably, the second layer of the first wrapper includes paper or other suitable material, and the first layer includes the tobacco portion. The tobacco portion can thus protect the second layer of the first wrapper from damage caused by external aggressive conditions or humectant contamination.

[0025] Alternatively, at least two tobacco leaf sections are preferably attached to the outer and inner surfaces of the inner or core layer of the first wrapper. In this case, the first wrapper may comprise a layered structure comprising at least three layers. Preferably, the core layer of the first wrapper comprises paper or other suitable fibrous material. At least one tobacco leaf section forms the outer layer of the first wrapper, and at least one further tobacco leaf section forms the inner layer of the first wrapper. This allows to create a particularly stable tobacco and paper mixed structure for the aerosol-generating article, which does not lose mechanical stability, especially when contacted with condensed liquid.

[0026] According to another embodiment, the tobacco leaf portion is formed as a spirally wound tube as the outer and / or inner surface of the first wrapper.

[0027] Such an aerosol-generating article for use in a non-combustion aerosol generating device may also include a filtering mouthpiece, an aerosol-generating segment, and a spacer element. The aerosol-generating article may thus extend in both a longitudinal and circumferential direction. The spacer element may additionally function as a cooling element to effectively reduce the temperature of the generated aerosol before it reaches the filtering mouthpiece. The spacer element is located between the aerosol-generating segment and the filtering mouthpiece. Such an aerosol-generating article is at least partially enveloped by a first wrapper. The first wrapper includes an outer surface and an inner surface, and the first wrapper includes at least one tobacco leaf portion, the tobacco leaf portion being formed as a helically wound tube as the outer surface and / or the inner surface of the first wrapper.

[0028] Preferably, the spirally wrapped tobacco portion is fixed in the tube with a suitable adhesive. The adhesive may be a cellulose-based glue or other adhesive approved in the smoking article industry. The surface of the tobacco portion may be coated with an adhesive to adhere to the outer or inner surface of the first wrapper. Preferably, the first wrapper surrounds at least one or several components of the aerosol-generating article, such as the filtering mouthpiece, the spacer element and / or the aerosol-generating segment. It is also conceivable that the tobacco portion is attached with an adhesive at the distal end and / or the mouth end of the aerosol-generating article. Alternatively or additionally, the edges of the wrapped tobacco portion are attached to each other with an adhesive. Preferably, the overlapping areas or edges of the spirally wrapped tube of the tobacco portion are attached with an adhesive.

[0029] Preferably, the first wrapper comprises a helically wrapped layer of tobacco leaf section, and preferably the first wrapper comprising the helically wrapped tobacco leaf section forms an additional wrapper of the pre-wrapped rod of the aerosol-generating article.

[0030] The spirally wound tube formed from the tobacco leaf section may include openings (windows, notches, etc.) through which the portion below the first wrapper is preferably visible from the outside. The openings may be distributed along the entire length of the aerosol-generating article. The openings of the spirally wound tube from the tobacco leaf section may include a distance to each other ranging from, for example, 3 mm to 8 mm.

[0031] It is also contemplated that the spirally wound tube formed from the tobacco leaf portion comprises overlapping leaf regions. The overlapping leaf regions may form adhesively attached regions. They may be spirally wound. It is therefore contemplated that the overlapping regions are coated with a suitable adhesive. Preferably, the overlapping regions may be equally spaced apart along the length of the aerosol-generating article. The overlapping regions may comprise a length in the range of 1 mm to 5 mm measured along the length. The spacing between the overlapping regions preferably comprises a length in the range of 5 mm to 15 mm measured along the length.

[0032] It is contemplated that two or more tobacco portions may be used to wrap around the aerosol-generating article, whereby the two or more tobacco portions are formed as a spirally wound tube as the outer and / or inner surface of the first wrapper.

[0033] According to one embodiment, the aerosol-generation segment is formed as a rod comprising a reconstituted tobacco substrate. The reconstituted tobacco preferably comprises a tobacco material obtained by collecting tobacco leaf residue and stems of a tobacco plant. Additionally, the reconstituted tobacco may comprise an aerosol-forming agent, a binder and / or a flavoring.

[0034] The reconstituted tobacco substrate may include an aerosol-forming agent. Examples of aerosol-forming materials include polyhydric alcohols, such as glycerin or propylene glycol, and mixtures thereof. Typically, the aerosol-forming substrate may include an aerosol-forming agent content of about 5% to about 50% on a dry weight basis. In some embodiments, the aerosol-forming substrate may include an aerosol-forming agent content of about 10% to about 20% on a dry weight basis, and optionally about 15% on a dry weight basis.

[0035] The reconstituted tobacco may be at least one pleated sheet. Preferably, the reconstituted tobacco is provided as a sheet formed in an ex-forming process. Also preferably, the reconstituted tobacco sheet is folded according to a predetermined pattern. Thus, the reconstituted tobacco sheet may be folded in an accordion-like manner. This will allow the flow of generated vapor in the heated aerosol-generating segment to be directed unimpeded through a pre-folded path to the spacer element of the aerosol-generating article. It is also conceivable that the reconstituted tobacco sheet is folded and pleated randomly without a predetermined scheme. The sheet may also be crimped before being pleated.

[0036] According to another embodiment, the reconstituted tobacco is formed into a plurality of lengthwise extending reconstituted tobacco strips or strands.

[0037] The strip or strand may be a portion of a reconstituted tobacco sheet that has been cut to a desired size. Preferably, the strip or strand comprises a length measured along its length similar to the length of the aerosol-generating segment. Also, preferably, the strip or strand comprises a width measured perpendicular to its length in the range of 0.5 mm to 2 mm, preferably 0.3 mm to 1.8 mm, more preferably 2 mm to 5 mm.

[0038] Preferably, the reconstituted tobacco is formed as a bundle of reconstituted tobacco strips or strands extending along the length of the aerosol-generating article. Preferably, the plurality or bundle of reconstituted tobacco comprises at least 30 strips, preferably 50 strips, and more preferably more than 70 strips. It is also contemplated that the plurality or bundle of reconstituted tobacco comprises at least 15 strands, preferably more than 25 strands, and more preferably more than 45 strands.

[0039] According to another embodiment, the reconstituted tobacco is preferably formed as a reconstituted tobacco cut filler that is randomly oriented within the aerosol-generation segment. Preferably, the reconstituted tobacco cut filler comprises tobacco particles. Also preferably, the tobacco particles comprise an average particle size (D50) of at least 20 μm. It is also contemplated that the reconstituted tobacco cut filler comprises a filler material as a carrier for the tobacco particles. Preferably, the carrier comprises parts of the tobacco plant, such as stems and leaves.

[0040] According to one embodiment, the aerosol-generation segments are individually wrapped in a second wrapper, preferably comprising one of paper, cellulose acetate, aluminum foil, tobacco, and tobacco paper. It is contemplated that the first and / or second wrappers may include a coating that releases components that interact in the aerosol (e.g., flavorings), has flame retardant properties, and / or enhances moisture resistance.

[0041] It is contemplated that the second wrapper may comprise a standard paper wrapper for the aerosol-generating article. Thus, the aerosol-generation segment is preferably additionally wrapped in paper. Additionally or alternatively, the aerosol-generation segment is surrounded by a first wrapper having at least one tobacco portion and a second wrapper that is a paper wrapper.

[0042] Alternatively, the second wrapper at least partially comprises tobacco leaf. The aerosol-generation segment is preferably wrapped with a first wrapper having at least one tobacco leaf portion and a second wrapper being an additional tobacco leaf portion. It is also conceivable that the first wrapper does not comprise a tobacco leaf portion. The second wrapper instead comprises a tobacco leaf portion. Thus, the aerosol-generation segment may be surrounded by a first wrapper being a paper wrapper and a second wrapper comprising at least one tobacco leaf portion.

[0043] In another preferred embodiment, the aerosol-generation segment is additionally wrapped in tobacco paper. Preferably, the second wrapper comprises tobacco paper. Thus, the aerosol-generation segment is surrounded by a first wrapper, preferably comprising at least one tobacco portion, and a second wrapper which is tobacco paper.

[0044] Because the material properties of typical wrappers, tobacco papers, and tobacco leaves differ, the desired absorption of generated vapor in the heated aerosol-generation segment can be tailored through a combination of materials.

[0045] According to another embodiment, the aerosol-generating article comprises a third wrapper at least partially adhesively attached to the first wrapper. Preferably, the third wrapper comprises conventional wrapping paper, tipping paper, tobacco paper or tobacco leaf.

[0046] It is envisaged that the second and / or third wrappers are at least partially attached to the first wrapper and to each other by adhesive. Preferably, a glue is applied between the first, second and third wrappers. Also preferably, the glue comprises cellulose, starch and / or other suitable non-toxic ingredients.

[0047] According to another embodiment, the first wrapper is a single wrapper of the aerosol-generating article. The first wrapper containing the tobacco leaf portion preferably provides sufficient mechanical stability to support the entire structure of the aerosol-generating article, including the aerosol-generating segment, the cooling element, the spacer element and / or the filtering mouthpiece. The first wrapper may be entirely composed of tobacco leaves. Thus, tobacco leaves decompose faster compared to normal processed paper. Thus, the aerosol-generating article may be a compostable product containing natural compounds. Additionally, there are benefits in the processing of tobacco leaf wrappers compared to common paper wrappers. These benefits contribute to sustainability and efficiency in the manufacture of aerosol-generating articles.

[0048] Preferably, the non-combustion aerosol generating device for use with an aerosol-generating article comprises an external and / or internal heating system. The heating system allows the aerosol-generating segment to be heated externally and / or internally. Preferably, the aerosol generating device comprises an attachment, in particular in the form of a hollow tube, for positioning and fixing the aerosol-generating article in the heating system of the aerosol generating device. The attachment may be arranged to extend over the entire length of the aerosol-generating segment or over only a portion of it. In this way, optimal conditions of the heating surface of the aerosol-generating segment can be reached. The heating surface preferably provides an enhanced tobacco taste during a smoking session.

[0049] A first wrapper containing at least one tobacco portion heated by an external heating system preferably functions as an additional aerosol generator.

[0050] The object is also achieved by a method of manufacturing an aerosol-generating article for use in a non-combustion aerosol generating device. The aerosol generating device comprises a filtering mouthpiece, an aerosol-generating segment, and a spacer element. Instead of or in addition to the spacer element, the aerosol-generating article comprises a support element. The spacer element is located between the aerosol-generating segment and the filtering mouthpiece. Furthermore, the aerosol-generating article extends in a longitudinal and circumferential direction. According to the invention, the method is characterized by at least partially wrapping the aerosol-generating article with a first wrapper. Additionally, the first wrapper comprises an outer surface and an inner surface, the first wrapper comprising at least one tobacco leaf portion, the tobacco leaf portion being a portion of a leaf of a tobacco plant that has been preformed, harvested, and aged.

[0051] Preferably, the manufacturing method includes a papermaking process for manufacturing a first wrapper comprising a tobacco portion. Also preferably, at least the aerosol-generation segment, the spacer element and the filtering mouthpiece are preferably provided as prefabricated parts of the aerosol-generating article. In one manufacturing step, at least the aerosol-generation segment, the spacer element and the filtering mouthpiece may be attached to each other to form a basic structure for the aerosol-generating article. Additionally, the spacer element may be attached to the aerosol-generation segment and / or the filtering mouthpiece. Additionally, a support element may be interposed between the spacer element and the aerosol-generation segment.

[0052] In a manufacturing step, the element or segment of the aerosol-generating article may be wrapped by a first wrapper comprising at least one tobacco leaf portion. The first wrapper comprising at least one tobacco leaf portion may be provided and pre-treated in a separate manufacturing step. Preferably, the manufacturing method of the first wrapper comprises a pre-forming step. The first wrapper may be cut into pieces or portions. Alternatively, notches may be punched or cut into the first wrapper. However, preferably, at least one tobacco leaf portion is attached to a first wrapper that has been pre-formed during a previous manufacturing step. Preferably, some tobacco leaf portions are glued to the wrapper, preferably the first wrapper, or directly to the element of the article with a suitable adhesive.

[0053] Alternatively, the aerosol-generating article may be wrapped with a first wrapper comprising non-tobacco (e.g., paper). In a further step, at least one tobacco portion may be wrapped around the aerosol-generating article or at least a portion of the aerosol-generating article.

[0054] The tobacco leaf portions may be pre-formed in a previous manufacturing step.

[0055] According to another embodiment, the aerosol-generation segment is wrapped with a second wrapper, preferably comprising paper or tobacco leaves or tobacco paper. The tobacco paper may comprise a tobacco-based paper made with reconstituted tobacco. The second wrapper may be fixed by an additional manufacturing step. It is conceivable that the second wrapper is wrapped only on the aerosol-generation segment, the cooling segment, the spacing segment or the filtering mouthpiece. The filtering mouthpiece may be wrapped with tipping paper in an additional step. In a further embodiment, the second wrapper may be made in a separate manufacturing step.

[0056] According to another embodiment, the aerosol-generating article is wrapped in a third wrapper, which is attached to the first wrapper by adhesive. Preferably, the third wrapper comprises smaller dimensions compared to the second or first wrapper. For this reason, it is conceivable that the method comprises a cutting step of the second and / or third wrapper.

[0057] Further advantages, objects and features of the present invention will be explained, by way of example only, in the following description with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which similar components in different embodiments may bear the same reference signs, and in which: [Brief description of the drawings]

[0058] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of an aerosol-generating article surrounded by a first wrapper containing a tobacco portion. [Diagram 2] 1 is a schematic exploded side view of an aerosol-generating article surrounded by a first wrapper containing several tobacco portions. [Figure 3a] 1 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of an aerosol-generating article surrounded by a first wrapper having a tobacco portion on its inner surface. [Figure 3b] 1 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of an aerosol-generating article surrounded by a first wrapper having a tobacco portion on its outer surface. [Figure 4] 1 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of an aerosol-generating article wrapped with a first wrapper that is a tobacco leaf section. [Diagram 5] 1 is a schematic exploded side view of an aerosol-generating article surrounded by first, second and third wrappers. FIG. [Figure 6a] 1 is a schematic cross-sectional top view of an aerosol-generating article surrounded by a first wrapper containing a tobacco portion. [Figure 6b] FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional bottom view of an aerosol-generating article surrounded by a first wrapper containing a tobacco portion. [Figure 7] 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an aerosol-generating article inserted into an aerosol generating device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0059] FIG. 1 shows a schematic cross-sectional side view of an aerosol-generating article 1 surrounded by a first wrapper 5 containing a tobacco portion 7. The tobacco portion 7 is shown as a dashed region. The illustrated aerosol-generating article 1 comprises an aerosol-generating segment 3, spacer elements 4a, 4b or alternatively a combination of a support element 4a and a spacer element 4b, and a filtering mouthpiece 2. Furthermore, the aerosol-generating article 1, in particular all segments and elements, extend along a length direction L and a circumferential direction C. The spacer elements 4a, 4b can function as cooling elements for the aerosol-generating article 1. In an alternative embodiment, the support element 4a and the spacer (or cooling) element 4b can be provided as two separate elements (as shown in FIG. 5).

[0060] The tobacco leaf portion 7 may be punched, cut or stripped from the leaf of a tobacco plant for further processing. The illustrated tobacco leaf portion 7 is preferably provided as a single preformed strip of tobacco leaf. The tobacco leaf strip 7 may include a longitudinal development measured in an unwrapped state along a length direction L and a widthwise development measured perpendicular to the length direction L. Preferably, the tobacco leaf strip 7 includes a length in the range of 1 cm to 3 cm, preferably 0.5 cm to 2 cm, more preferably 2 cm to 5 cm. Furthermore, the tobacco leaf strip 7 may include a width in the range of 0.3 cm to 1.5 cm, preferably 0.5 cm to 2.5 cm, more preferably 1.5 cm to 4 cm. Furthermore, the tobacco leaf strip 7 may include a distal end and a mouth end measured along the length direction L. It is preferred, but not required, that the width of the tobacco leaf strip 7 is perpendicular to its length. Alternatively, the width of the tobacco leaf strip 7 may be at an angle to its length. In such cases, the distal end and / or the mouth end of the tobacco strip 7 may be inclined relative to its length. It is also contemplated that the distal end and / or the mouth end of the tobacco strip 7 may comprise a tapered shape.

[0061] The aerosol-generating article 1 is preferably surrounded by a first wrapper 5 comprising an inner surface 6b and an outer surface 6a. Preferably, a tobacco portion 7 surrounds the aerosol-generation segment 3 of the article 1. It is therefore envisaged that the length of the tobacco portion 7 corresponds to the length of the aerosol-generation segment 3 measured along the longitudinal direction L.

[0062] Figure 2 shows a schematic exploded side view of an aerosol-generating article 1 surrounded by a first wrapper 5 containing several tobacco portions 7. The illustrated aerosol-generating article 1 corresponds to the aerosol-generating article 1 shown in Figure 1, with differences regarding the first wrapper 5.

[0063] The illustrated first wrapper 5 is formed from three tobacco sections 7 arranged between two parts 5a of the first wrapper 5. Preferably, the tobacco sections 7 are provided as rectangular tobacco strips or segments. It is conceivable, but not necessary, that the first wrapper section 5a includes similar dimensions to the tobacco strips 7. Alternatively, the first wrapper section 5a includes smaller or larger dimensions compared to the dimensions of the tobacco sections 7. Preferably, the tobacco strips 7 are attached to the first wrapper section 5a by adhesive. Also preferably, the tobacco strips 7 alternate with the first wrapper section 5a. Thus, the first wrapper section 5a and the tobacco strips 7 are preferably preformed for attachment to each other. However, the tobacco strips 7 are preferably adhesively attached to the first wrapper section 5a. Preferably, the tobacco strips 7 are coated at the distal end and / or mouth end with an adhesive suitable for attaching to the first wrapper section 5a. The strip 7 and the portion 5a thus provide the first wrapper 5 of the aerosol-generating article 1. The first wrapper 5 thus comprises the tobacco portion 7 on its outer surface 6a and inner surface 6b.

[0064] The aerosol-generating article 1 shown is surrounded by a ring of tobacco portions 7 at the aerosol-generation segment 3, elements 4a, 4b and filtering mouthpiece 2. It is also conceivable that the aerosol-generating article 1 is surrounded by two tobacco portions 7 at the aerosol-generation segment 3 and filtering mouthpiece 2 (not shown).

[0065] The aerosol-generating segment 3 of the illustrated aerosol-generating article 1 includes a bundle 12 of reconstituted tobacco, preferably consisting of several strands. Preferably, the bundle 12 includes multiple strands of reconstituted tobacco.

[0066] Preferably, the support element 4a comprises a tubular shape, preferably with a centrally located recess. Preferably, the support element 4a abuts the spacer element 4b and is wrapped by a wrapper. Alternatively, a single tubular element may form the spacer elements 4a, 4b and further ensure the function of the support elements. In one embodiment, the aerosol-generating article 1 comprises only the spacer element 4a, which ensures the cooling function.

[0067] The filtering mouthpiece 2 preferably comprises a filter material. The filtering mouthpiece 2 may comprise a single filter segment or two or more filter segments and a non-filter cavity (not shown). The filter segment of the mouthpiece 2 may be a hollow tube made of the filtering material. The filter segment of the mouthpiece 2 may be a filled (i.e. non-hollow) filter element. At least one or both segments comprise or are made of a cellulose material, preferably cellulose acetate or paper tow. The mouth end of the filtering mouthpiece may be formed from a filter tube or a concave paper tube.

[0068] 3a shows a schematic cross-sectional side view of an aerosol-generating article 1 surrounded by a first wrapper 5 comprising a tobacco portion 7 on its inner surface 6b. The outer surface 6b of the first wrapper 5 is not coated with the tobacco portion 7. Thus, the outer surface 6b only comprises the first wrapper 5 extending over the entire length of the aerosol-generating article 1 measured along the length direction L. Preferably, the tobacco portion 7 is wrapped around the entire aerosol-generating article 1. A first wrapper portion 5a is located between each turn of the tobacco portion 7 around the aerosol-generating article 1.

[0069] Preferably, the ribbon-like tobacco leaf portion 7 is one continuous wound strip. Also preferably, the tobacco leaf strip 7 comprises a length corresponding to at least twice the length of the aerosol-generating article 1. The longitudinal development of the tobacco leaf strip 7 is preferably arranged at an angle to the length direction L in order to achieve a spiral winding around the aerosol-generating article 1. Preferably, the angle comprises a range of 25° to 45°, 30° to 55°, and even more preferably 45° to 70°. In particular, the tobacco leaf strip 7 is wound around the aerosol-generating article 1 in such a way that it follows a spiral course extending in the length direction L. Thus, the aerosol-generating article 1 is spirally surrounded by the tobacco leaf strip 7, which performs several spiral windings around the aerosol-generating article 1.

[0070] The turns of the tobacco strip 7 are preferably spaced apart from one another by a distance in the range of 1.3 cm to 3 cm, preferably 2.5 cm to 4.5 cm, more preferably 3 cm to 6 cm. In the illustrated embodiment, the turns of the tobacco strip 7 are at a distance from one another that corresponds to the width of the tobacco strip 7.

[0071] Preferably, the mouth end and the distal end of the tobacco strip 7 are secured to the surface 6b of the first wrapper 5, at least at the distal or mouth end of the article 1.

[0072] In the illustrated diagram, the tobacco strip 7 spirals around the aerosol-generating article 1, thereby completing three turns. The tobacco strip 7 therefore extends circumferentially around the inner surface 6b of the first wrapper 5 and at the same time in the length direction L. Preferably, each segment or element of the aerosol-generating article 1 is wrapped at least once with the tobacco portion 7. In particular, the aerosol-generating segment 3, the spacer element 4b and optionally the support element 4a as well as the filtering mouthpiece 2 are wrapped with at least one turn of the rolled tobacco portion 7.

[0073] The first wrapper 5 preferably comprises a first thickness t1 in the unwrapped portion 5a and a different second thickness t2 in the portion comprising the tobacco leaf 7. The thickness t1 is preferably in the range of 0.3 mm to 2 mm. The thickness t2 is preferably in the range of 0.5 mm to 2.7 mm. The difference between the first thickness t1 and the second thickness t2 is preferably not visible from the outside. Only the outer surface 6a of the first wrapper 5 is visible from the outside of the aerosol-generating article 1. The tobacco leaf portion 7 is preferably attached to the first wrapper, in particular to the inner surface 6b of the first wrapper 5, by adhesive.

[0074] The first wrapper 5, including the tobacco portion 7, preferably forms a tube 9. The tobacco portion 7 extends on an inner surface of the tube 9. The tube 9 houses the aerosol-generation segment 3, the cooling 4a element, the spacer element 4b and the filtering mouthpiece 2.

[0075] FIG. 3b shows a schematic cross-sectional side view of an aerosol-generating article 1 surrounded by a first wrapper 5 comprising a tobacco leaf portion 7 on its outer surface 6a. The illustrated aerosol-generating article 1 is similar to the aerosol-generating article 1 of FIG. 3a. The only difference between the two articles 2 is the tobacco leaf portion 7 applied on the inner surface 6b and the outer surface 6a of the first wrapper 5. The illustrated first wrapper 5 preferably comprises a first thickness t1 in the unwrapped portion 5a and a separate second thickness t2 in the portion comprising the tobacco leaf 7. The thickness t1 is preferably in the range of 0.2 mm to 2.3 mm. The thickness t2 is preferably in the range of 0.4 mm to 3 mm. The difference between the first thickness t1 and the second thickness t2 is preferably visible from the outside. The tobacco leaf portion 7 is preferably attached to the outer surface 6a of the first wrapper 5 by adhesive.

[0076] The first wrapper 5 is preferably shaped as a tube 9 including at least one tobacco portion 7 on its outer surface.

[0077] 4 shows a schematic cross-sectional side view of an aerosol-generating article 1 wrapped with a first wrapper 5 that is a tobacco portion 7. The tobacco portion 7 is attached to an outer surface 6a of the first wrapper 5. The first wrapper 5 may support the wrapped tobacco portion 7. It is envisaged that the first wrapper may be provided as a pre-made tube 9 to which the tobacco portion 7 is attached. Preferably, the tobacco portion 7 surrounds the entire first wrapper 5 tube 9.

[0078] The wrapped tobacco leaf portion 7 is preferably provided as a strip. The tobacco leaf strip 7 is wrapped around the aerosol-generating article 1 in such a way that it follows a spiral course extending in the length direction L, with every turn of the tobacco leaf strip 7 around the aerosol-generating article 1 overlapping the previous turn, thereby creating an overlap 15. The overlap 15 preferably comprises a length measured along the length direction L in the range of 1 mm to 3 mm, preferably 2.5 mm to 5 mm, more preferably 3 mm to 7 mm. The portion 7 may be adhesively sealed at the overlap 15.

[0079] It is also contemplated that the tobacco leaf portion 7 may be formed from several layers of tobacco leaf fragments with overlapping portions. The tobacco leaf portion 7 may include a natural geometric shape that is not precisely preformed (not shown). This allows even the smallest tobacco leaf remnants of the tobacco leaf to be processed.

[0080] 5 shows a schematic exploded side view of an aerosol-generating article 1 surrounded by a first wrapper 5, a second wrapper 13 and a third wrapper 14. The illustrated aerosol-generating article 1 includes a filtering mouthpiece 2, a spacer (cooling) element 4b, a support element 4a and an aerosol-generation segment 3. The filtering mouthpiece 2 extends in a length direction L and is attached to the spacer element 4b. The spacer element 4b extends in the length direction L and is attached to the support element 4a. The support element 4a extends in the length direction L and is attached to the aerosol-generation segment 3. The aerosol-generation segment 3 extends in the length direction L and is a distal portion of the aerosol-generating article 1.

[0081] The aerosol-generation segment 3 preferably comprises a pleated sheet 10a or randomly arranged shreds of reconstituted tobacco 10. The aerosol-generation segment 3 is surrounded by a third wrapper 14. Preferably, the third wrapper 14 comprises paper, tobacco leaf or tobacco paper.

[0082] Furthermore, the aerosol-generation segment, the support element 4a, the spacer element 4b and the filtering mouthpiece 2 are surrounded by a second or combined wrapper 13. Preferably, the second wrapper comprises paper or tobacco paper.

[0083] Furthermore, the entire aerosol-generating article 1 is surrounded by a first wrapper 5. The first wrapper 5 comprises three tobacco leaf portions 7 attached to an outer surface 6a of a support layer of the first wrapper 5. The support layer can be made of paper. It is conceivable that the first wrapper 5 comprises more or less tobacco leaf portions 7 on its surfaces 6a, 6b. In particular, it is conceivable that the first wrapper 5 comprises tobacco leaf portions 7 on its outer surface 6a and on its inner surface 6b.

[0084] Figures 6a and 6b show schematic cross-sectional top and bottom views of an aerosol-generating article 1 surrounded by a first wrapper 5 containing a tobacco portion 7. In Figure 6a, an aerosol-generating segment 3 of the aerosol-generating article 1 is shown. The aerosol-generating segment 3 contains at its center a bundle 12 of reconstituted tobacco 10. The bundle 12 is surrounded by a second wrapper 13, a third wrapper 14 and a first wrapper 5. The first wrapper 5 contains one tobacco portion 7 attached to its outer surface 6a. The tobacco portion 7 contains a curvature having a circumference c1 corresponding to the circumference c2 of the first wrapper 5. The first and second wrappers 13, 14 may comprise a paper material.

[0085] Figure 6b shows the same aerosol-generating article 1 as in Figure 6a. However, a filtering mouthpiece 2 is arranged at the centre of the aerosol-generating article 1. The filtering mouthpiece 2 is surrounded by a second wrapper 13 and a first wrapper 5. The first wrapper comprises one tobacco portion 7 with a circumference c1 similar to the circumference c2 of the first wrapper 5.

[0086] Figure 7 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of an aerosol-generating article 1 inserted into an aerosol-generation device 8. The aerosol-generation device 8 comprises a cavity 17 and preferably a heating element 16 within the cavity 17. It is contemplated that the heating element 16 may comprise a blade-type or pin-type heater or other internal heating system. Thus, it is contemplated that the aerosol-generation segment 3 may comprise a pleated sheet, strip or strand 10b of reconstituted tobacco 10, as shown in Figure 2. The aerosol-generation segment 3 is inserted into the aerosol-generation device 8, and in particular the heating element 16 is inserted into the centre of the aerosol-generation segment 3.

[0087] The aerosol-generating article 1 is preferably spirally wrapped with a tobacco portion 7 that is adhesively attached to the outer surface 6a or inner surface 6b of the first wrapper 5. The illustrated tobacco portion 7 and first wrapper 5 preferably surround the aerosol-generating segment 3, the cooling element 4a, the spacer element 4b and the filtering mouthpiece 2 of the article 1.

[0088] The first wrapper 5 including the tobacco portion 7 enveloping the filtering mouthpiece 2 is capable of absorbing the humectant released from the heating element 16, preferably an inner heater. Preferably, the tobacco portion included in the first wrapper 5 that is located closer to the filter material in the filtering mouthpiece 2 is capable of acting as a filter for the humectant.

[0089] The applicant reserves the right to claim all features disclosed in the present application documents as essential features of the invention, insofar as they are novel in the light of the prior art, either individually or in combination. It should further be noted that in the figures, features are described that may be advantageous individually. Those skilled in the art will immediately recognize that a particular feature disclosed in a figure may be advantageous without incorporating further features from this figure. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will recognize that advantages may develop from a combination of various features disclosed in one or various figures. [Explanation of symbols]

[0090] 1. Aerosol-generating items 2 Filtering mouthpiece 3. Aerosol Generation Segment 4a Support element 4b Spacer element 5. The First Trumpet 5a First Trumpet Section 6a The Outer Side of the First Trumpet 6b The Inside of the First Trumpet 7 Tobacco leaf parts 8. Aerosol Generator 9 tubes 10 Reconstituted Tobacco 10a. Reconstituted tobacco pleated sheet 10b Strips or strands of reconstituted tobacco 11 Rod 12 bundles of reconstituted tobacco 13 The Second Trumpet 14 The Third Trumpet 15 Overlap 16 heating elements 17 Cavity inside the aerosol generator c1 Circumference of tobacco leaf part c2 Circumference of the first trumpet l1 Length of tobacco leaf l2 Length of aerosol-generating item t1 First thickness of the first trumpet t2 Second thickness of the first trumpet L Length direction C circumferential direction

Claims

1. An aerosol generating article (1) for use in a non-combustion aerosol generator (8), comprising: a filtering mouthpiece (2); an aerosol generating segment (3); a spacer element (4b) located between the aerosol generating segment (3) and the filtering mouthpiece (2); and at least partially wrapped by a first wrapper (5), wherein the first wrapper (5) includes an outer surface (6a) and an inner surface (6b), the aerosol generating article (1) extends in a longitudinal direction (L) and a circumferential direction (C), the first wrapper (5) includes at least one tobacco leaf portion (7), and the tobacco leaf portion is a part of a leaf of a tobacco plant that has been pre-shaped, harvested, and aged. An aerosol generating article (1), characterized by the above.

2. The tobacco leaf portion (7) extends along the longitudinal direction (L) and includes a length (l2) corresponding to the length (l1) of the aerosol generating article (1). The aerosol generating article (1) according to claim 1, characterized by the above.

3. The tobacco leaf portion (7) extends along the circumferential direction (C) and includes a circumference (c2) corresponding to the circumference (c1) of the aerosol generating article (1). The aerosol generating article (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by the above.

4. The tobacco leaf portion (7) is arranged as at least the outer surface (6a) and / or the inner surface (6b) of the first wrapper (5). The aerosol generating article (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by the above.

5. The tobacco leaf portion (7) is formed as a tube (9) spirally wound as at least the outer surface (6a) and / or the inner surface (6b) of the first wrapper (5). The aerosol generating article (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by the above.

6. The aerosol generating segment (3) is formed as a rod (11) including reconstituted tobacco (10). The aerosol generating article (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by the above.

7. The reconstituted tobacco (10) is at least one pleated sheet (10a). The aerosol generating article (1) according to claim 6, characterized by the above.

8. The reconstituted tobacco (10) is formed as a plurality (12) of reconstituted tobacco strips or strands (10b) extending along the longitudinal direction (L). The aerosol-generating article (1) according to claim 6, characterized in that

9. The reconstructed tobacco (10) is preferably formed as a reconstructed tobacco cut filler (10c) randomly oriented within the aerosol-generating segment (3). The aerosol-generating article (1) according to claim 6, characterized in that

10. The aerosol-generating segment (3) is preferably individually wrapped in a second wrapper (13) comprising any one of paper, cellulose acetate, aluminum foil, tobacco leaf, tobacco paper. The aerosol-generating article (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that

11. Including a third wrapper (14) at least partially attached to the first wrapper (5) with an adhesive. The aerosol-generating article (1) according to claim 10, characterized in that

12. The first wrapper (5) is the single wrapper of the aerosol-generating article (1). The aerosol-generating article (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that

13. The first wrapper includes two layers, The tobacco leaf part is the layer of the first wrapper attached to the outer or inner surface of the second layer of the first wrapper with an adhesive, The layers of the first wrapper are overlapped or at least overlapping. The aerosol-generating article (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that

14. The layers of the first wrapper are overlapped or at least overlapping. The aerosol-generating article (1) according to claim 13, characterized in that

15. Some tobacco leaf parts are distributed over the entire outer and / or inner surface of the first wrapper. The aerosol-generating article (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that

16. The tobacco leaf part is attached as a ring to the inner and / or outer surface of the first wrapper, The tobacco leaf ring circumferentially surrounds the aerosol-generating article. The aerosol-generating article (1) according to claim 15, characterized in that

17. The ring of the tobacco leaf part replaces at least one missing part of the first wrapper. The aerosol-generating article (1) according to claim 16, characterized in that

18. The tobacco leaf portion is pasted to the portion or edge of the first wrapper and includes at least one adhesive surface capable of replacing the missing portion with the tobacco leaf portion. The aerosol generating article (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that.

19. A method for manufacturing an aerosol generating article (1) for use in a non-combustion aerosol generating device (8), The aerosol generating device (8) is, A filtering mouthpiece (2), An aerosol generating segment (3), And a spacer element (4b) located between the aerosol generating segment (3) and the filtering mouthpiece (2). Including, The aerosol generating article (1) extends in the longitudinal direction (L) and the circumferential direction (C), The method is to at least partially wrap the aerosol generating article (1) with a first wrapper (5), The first wrapper (5) includes an outer surface (6a) and an inner surface (6b), The first wrapper (5) includes at least one tobacco leaf portion (7), The tobacco leaf portion is a part of the leaf of a tobacco plant that has been pre-shaped, harvested, and aged. Characterized by wrapping in this way. Method.

20. The method according to claim 19, characterized in that the aerosol generating segment (3) is wrapped with a second wrapper (13) preferably including paper, or tobacco leaf, or tobacco paper. The method according to claim 19, characterized by this.

21. The method according to claim 20, characterized in that the aerosol generating article (1) is wrapped with a third wrapper (14), and the third wrapper (14) is attached to the first wrapper (5) with an adhesive. The method according to claim 20, characterized by this.

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