Heating-type cigarette cartridge and member

Abstract

To provide a heating-type cigarette cartridge using a support member for a heating-type cigarette which is easily held by an assembling machine.SOLUTION: A heating-type cigarette cartridge includes: a tobacco filler accumulation body, a filter, and a support member 20 disposed between the tobacco filler accumulation body and the filter, wherein the support member includes: through-holes 27 which is formed in a cylindrical shape disposed adjacent to one end face of the filter, having a first end face 21, a second end face 23, and a peripheral surface part 25 formed therebetween, and extends from the first end face to the second end face; and a plurality of convex portions 251 on the peripheral surface part, wherein the convex portions are provided to extend along a longitudinal direction over the entire circumference in a circumferential direction of the support member, each of the projections has a tip 251a and two sides S251, each of the sides connects the tip and the peripheral surface part, and an angle θ formed by a virtual line C251 extending from a center VL1 of the projection toward the tip when the support member is viewed from the first end face side and a virtual line VL2 provided along the side corresponding to the tip of the projection is an acute angle.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a support member for a heated tobacco product having a tobacco filler made from a tobacco or non-tobacco plant, and a cartridge for a heated tobacco product having the same. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, in order to comply with the trend of smoking cessation, heated tobacco products that allow the user to enjoy tobacco by heating a cartridge containing tobacco components without using a flame and inhaling the vaporized tobacco components have become widespread. A cartridge for a heated tobacco product has a tobacco filler that is heated by inserting a heating body such as a blade of a heated tobacco product body, a filter provided at the mouthpiece, and a support member provided between the tobacco filler and the filter, and is formed by wrapping these in a packaging member such as paper. Examples of such a support member for a heated tobacco product and a cartridge for a heated tobacco product include those listed in Patent Document 1.

[0003] In addition, in the heated tobacco of Patent Document 2, a heating element is inserted into the aerosol-forming substrate of a heated tobacco cartridge to heat the aerosol-forming substrate and generate an aerosol containing a tobacco component. The heated tobacco cartridge has a hollow tubular support member that supports the aerosol-forming substrate, and the support member resists the force that the cartridge receives when the heating element is inserted into the aerosol-forming substrate. The tobacco component released from the aerosol-forming substrate by heating is transported through the hollow part of the support member to a mouthpiece located downstream and is inhaled by the user. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Utility Model Registration No. 3212228 [Patent Document 2] Patent No. 6000451 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] On the other hand, when manufacturing cartridges for electronically heated cigarettes using the support members described in Patent Documents 1 and 2, the surface of the support member may be slippery, and the manufacturing machine (assembly machine) may not be able to grasp the support member.

[0006] Therefore, the present invention has been made in consideration of the above problems, and has an object to provide a cartridge for a heated tobacco product that uses a support member for a heated tobacco product that is easy to grip by an assembly machine. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] According to one embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a cartridge for heated tobacco to be attached to a heated smoking device having an electrically controlled heating element and smoked, the cartridge comprising: a tobacco filler accumulation that generates an aerosol when heated; a filter that filters the aerosol; a support member that is disposed between the tobacco filler accumulation and the filter and prevents the tobacco filler accumulation from moving toward the filter when the heating element is inserted into the tobacco filler accumulation; and a packaging member that is wrapped around the outer periphery of the tobacco filler accumulation, the filter, and the support member, wherein the support member has a first end face provided on the tobacco filler accumulation side, a second end face provided on the filter side, and at least one recess or protrusion provided on a peripheral surface portion formed between the first end face and the second end face, and the at least one recess or protrusion has a corresponding tip portion.

[0008] In the above-mentioned heated tobacco cartridge, the at least one recess or protrusion may be provided in a partial area of ​​the peripheral surface.

[0009] In the above-mentioned heated tobacco cartridge, the at least one recess or protrusion may be provided along a longitudinal direction of the support member.

[0010] In the above-mentioned heated tobacco cartridge, the at least one recess or protrusion may be provided along a circumferential direction of the support member.

[0011] In the above-mentioned heated tobacco cartridge, the at least one recess or protrusion may be provided in a curved shape.

[0012] In the above-mentioned heated tobacco cartridge, the at least one recess or protrusion may be provided along a direction intersecting with the longitudinal direction of the support member.

[0013] In the above-mentioned heated tobacco cartridge, the at least one concave portion or convex portion may include a plurality of concave portions or convex portions, and the plurality of concave portions or convex portions may be provided so as to intersect with each other.

[0014] In the above-mentioned heated tobacco cartridge, the at least one concave or convex portion may include a plurality of concave or convex portions, and the plurality of concave or convex portions may be respectively provided in a plurality of regions provided in the longitudinal direction of the support member.

[0015] In the above-mentioned heated tobacco cartridge, the at least one recess or protrusion may include a plurality of recesses or protrusions, and the plurality of recesses or protrusions may be provided in a plurality of regions arranged in the circumferential direction.

[0016] In the above-mentioned heated tobacco cartridge, the at least one recess or protrusion may be provided along a longitudinal direction of the support member from the first end surface to the second end surface.

[0017] In the above-mentioned heated tobacco cartridge, the at least one recess or protrusion may include a plurality of recesses or protrusions, and the plurality of recesses or protrusions may be provided over the entire circumferential circumference of the support member.

[0018] In the above-mentioned heated tobacco cartridge, the height of the protrusion may be 0.05 mm or more and 1 mm or less.

[0019] In the above-mentioned heated tobacco cartridge, the heights of the protrusions may be different from one another. Effect of the Invention

[0020] By using one embodiment of the present invention, it is possible to provide a support member for a heated tobacco product that is easy to grip by an assembly machine, and a cartridge for a heated tobacco product using the support member for a heated tobacco product. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0021] [Figure 1] 1 is a cross-sectional view taken along a plane including a central axis along the longitudinal direction of a cartridge for heated tobacco in one embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view showing a usage form of the heated tobacco cartridge. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a support member in one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] 2A and 2B are a side view and a front view of a support member according to an embodiment of the present invention, respectively, showing a first end surface. [Diagram 5] 3 is a cross-sectional view of a support member and a packaging member in one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. 4 is a side view of a support member in one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] FIG. 4 is a side view of a support member in one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] 2A and 2B are a side view and a front view of a support member according to an embodiment of the present invention, respectively, showing a first end surface. [Figure 9] 2A and 2B are a side view and a front view of a support member according to an embodiment of the present invention, respectively, showing a first end surface. [Figure 10] 2A and 2B are a side view and a front view of a support member according to an embodiment of the present invention, respectively, showing a first end surface. [Figure 11]FIG. 4 is a side view of a support member in one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12] FIG. 4 is a side view of a support member in one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13] FIG. 4 is a side view of a support member in one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 14] FIG. 4 is a side view of a support member in one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 15] 2A and 2B are a side view and a front view of a support member according to an embodiment of the present invention, respectively, showing a first end surface. [Figure 16] 2A and 2B are a side view and a front view of a support member according to an embodiment of the present invention, respectively, showing a first end surface. [Figure 17] 2A and 2B are a side view and a front view of a support member according to an embodiment of the present invention, respectively, showing a first end surface. [Figure 18] 2A and 2B are a side view and a front view of a support member according to an embodiment of the present invention, respectively, showing a first end surface. [Figure 19] 2A and 2B are a side view and a front view of a support member according to an embodiment of the present invention, respectively, showing a first end surface. [Figure 20] 2 is a front view of a first end surface of a support member in one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. [Figure 21] FIG. 4 is a side view of a support member in one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 22] FIG. 4 is a side view of a support member in one embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 23] 3 is a schematic diagram showing a first end surface of a support member according to an embodiment of the present invention as viewed from the front. FIG. [Figure 24] 3 is a schematic diagram showing a first end surface of a support member according to an embodiment of the present invention as viewed from the front. FIG. [Diagram 25] 2A and 2B are a side view and a schematic view of a support member according to an embodiment of the present invention, respectively, with a first end surface facing forward. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0022] Hereinafter, the embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. However, the present invention can be implemented in many different forms, and should not be interpreted as being limited to the description of the embodiments exemplified below. The drawings may be schematic in order to make the explanation clearer, but they are merely examples and do not limit the interpretation of the present invention.

[0023] Furthermore, the letters "first" and "second" attached to each element are convenient labels used to distinguish each element, and have no further meaning unless otherwise specified. In the drawings referred to in this embodiment, the same parts or parts having similar functions are given the same or similar symbols (symbols consisting of the number xxx with A, B or 1, 2, etc. attached thereto), and repeated explanations may be omitted. Also, some of the configuration may be omitted from the drawings. In addition, if a person having ordinary knowledge in the field to which the present invention belongs can recognize the above, no special explanation will be given.

[0024] As used in this specification, the term "tip" refers to a convex or concave portion provided on the peripheral surface of a support member, the apex point that protrudes highest from the peripheral surface in the case of a convex portion, and the deepest point that is located deepest from the peripheral surface toward the center in the case of a concave portion, and the shape of the apex or deep portion is not limited to being pointed but also includes rounded shapes.

[0025] First Embodiment A cartridge for heated tobacco according to a first embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0026] (1-1. Configuration of a heated tobacco cartridge) Fig. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a heated tobacco cartridge 1 having a tobacco filler aggregate 10 in this embodiment. As shown in Fig. 1, the heated tobacco cartridge 1 includes a tobacco filler aggregate 10, a heated tobacco support member 20 (hereinafter simply referred to as the support member 20), a filter 30 that serves as a mouthpiece, and a sheet-like packaging member 40. In the heated tobacco cartridge 1, the tobacco filler aggregate 10, the support member 20, and the filter 30 are arranged along the longitudinal direction D1, and are integrally formed by being wrapped in the packaging member 40.

[0027] The tobacco filler assembly 10 is formed by bundling a long tobacco filler 11 along a longitudinal direction D1 and wrapping it in a sheet-like wrapping material to form a substantially cylindrical shape. In this example, the tobacco filler 11 is made of a non-tobacco material. However, the tobacco filler 11 may be made of a tobacco material.

[0028] The tobacco filler 11 is formed by mixing aerosol formers that generate aerosols, microcrystalline cellulose, additives that add flavor, preservatives, adhesives or thickeners, etc. with dried and ground non-tobacco plants, forming the mixture into a sheet, and then cutting the sheet into a predetermined width and length. Note that the tobacco filler 11 is not limited to a long shape, and may have a variety of shapes. For example, the tobacco filler 11 may be formed into a paste or granules.

[0029] When the tobacco filler 11 is configured to be long, the cross section perpendicular to the central axis C is substantially rectangular, and the ratio of the long side to the short side of the cross section is preferably in the range of, for example, 1:1 to 30:1. The length of the long side is preferably in the range of 0.1 mm to 7.5 mm, and more preferably in the range of 0.1 mm to 3.0 mm. The length of the short side is preferably in the range of 0.1 mm to 1.0 mm, and more preferably in the range of 0.1 mm to 0.5 mm. In addition, it is preferable that the length of the tobacco filler 11 is substantially the same as the length of the tobacco filler assembly 10. The length of the tobacco filler 11 is preferably in the range of 10 mm to 25 mm, and more preferably in the range of 10 mm to 20 mm. An example of the dimensions of such a tobacco filler 11 is a long side of 1.5 mm, a short side of 0.3 mm, and a length of 12 mm.

[0030] The support member 20 suppresses the movement of the tobacco packing stack 10 toward the support member 20, and allows the airflow containing the aerosol generated in the tobacco packing stack 10 to flow toward the filter 30. The support member 20 is provided, for example, in a cylindrical and solid shape, and is disposed between the tobacco packing 11 and the filter 30 so that its axial direction is along the central axis C. The support member 20 is formed, for example, so that its length along the central axis C is 3.0 mm to 50 mm or less. The support member 20 may have dimensions different from those described above depending on the appropriate function and configuration. Other configurations of the support member 20 will be described later.

[0031] The filter 30 is formed in a cylindrical shape, for example, with a diameter of 6.5 mm to 7.5 mm and a length along the central axis C of 50 mm or less. The filter 30 is a part that constitutes the mouthpiece of the cartridge 1 for a smoking device. The filter 30 is formed, for example, from paper or the like. The filter 30 may be provided in a cylindrical shape by rolling up a sheet-like member made of paper, or may include a cellulose acetate filter or the like that removes fine particles. The filter 30 has a function of filtering out water vapor generated in the tobacco filler assembly 10 and some of the fine particles in the aerosol.

[0032] The heated tobacco cartridge 1 according to this embodiment is formed to have a diameter of 6.5 to 7.5 mm and a length of 40 to 60 mm. If the diameter of the heated tobacco cartridge 1 is set in the range of 6.5 to 7.5 mm, the diameter will be smaller than the insertion hole for inserting the heated tobacco cartridge provided in the heated smoking tool, making it easy to insert the heated tobacco cartridge 1 into the heated smoking tool. If the length of the heated tobacco cartridge 1 is set in the range of 40 to 60 mm, the length will be longer than the length of the insertion hole for receiving the heated tobacco cartridge provided in the heated smoking tool, so that even if the heated tobacco cartridge 1 is inserted into the smoking tool, the mouthpiece can be exposed from the heated smoking tool, and the length required for a smoker to smoke can be secured.

[0033] Moreover, the tobacco filler aggregate 10 has a length of 10 to 25 mm. By setting the length of the tobacco filler aggregate 10 to 10 mm or more, it is possible to ensure the minimum length required for inserting the heating element 52. Furthermore, by setting the length of the tobacco filler aggregate 10 to 25 mm or less, it is possible to ensure a length that allows the heat of the heating element 52 to reach every corner of the tobacco filler 11. The heated tobacco cartridge 1 may have dimensions different from those described above, depending on the shape of the heated tobacco body.

[0034] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view showing a usage form of the heated tobacco cartridge 1. The heated tobacco cartridge 1 is attached to a heated tobacco body 5 for use. The heated tobacco body 5 has an insertion section 50 into which the heated tobacco cartridge 1 is inserted. The insertion section 50 is provided with a needle-shaped or blade-shaped heating element 52 that is inserted into the tobacco filler 11 of the inserted heated tobacco cartridge 1. The heating element 52 is electrically controlled by a control section provided inside the heated tobacco body 5. The heating element 52 generates heat while inserted into the tobacco filler 11, thereby generating an aerosol from the tobacco filler 11. In this state, the user inhales from the filter 30 to inhale an airflow containing the aerosol. In addition, the support member 20 is solid and provided between the tobacco filler accumulation 10 and the filter, thereby preventing the tobacco filler accumulation 10 from moving toward the filter 30.

[0035] (1-2. Configuration of Support Member 20) The support member 20 is described in more detail below.

[0036] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the support member 20. As shown in FIG. 3, the support member 20 has a first end face 21, a second end face 23, and a peripheral surface portion 25. The first end face 21 of the support member 20 abuts against the end face of the tobacco filler stack 10. The second end face 23 of the support member 20 abuts against the end face of the filter 30. The support member 20 has a hole portion 27 (also called a through hole) extending from the first end face 21 to the second end face 23, and an air current flows through the hole portion 27. The support member 20 is provided in a cylindrical shape. For example, a silicone resin is used as a material for forming the support member 20. Note that the support member 20 is not limited to a silicone resin, and may be formed of a material other than a resin material, such as wood or metal (aluminum, etc.), which enhances the cooling effect.

[0037] Fig. 4(A) is a side view of the support member 20. Fig. 4(B) is a front view of the first end face 21 of the support member 20. As shown in Fig. 4(A) and Fig. 4(B), the support member 20 has the same shape from the first end face 21 to the second end face 23 in a cross section cut along a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction D1.

[0038] The support member 20 has a hole 27 penetrating from the first end face 21 to the second end face 23. The hole 27 functions as a flow path that allows the airflow containing the aerosol generated in the tobacco filler accumulation 10 to flow to the filter 30 side.

[0039] As shown in Figs. 4(A) and 4(B), the holes 27 are arranged so as not to include the central axis C20 of the peripheral surface portion 25. In this example, the holes 27 have a cylindrical shape. In this embodiment, six holes 27 are provided along the circumferential direction. At this time, the centers P of the holes 27 are arranged at intervals of 60° in the circumferential direction centered on the central axis C20. Therefore, the six holes 27 are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction. In addition, the six holes 27 have the same radius.

[0040] The first end surface 21 has a gap at the hole 27 and is solid at the other portion. This solid portion abuts against the end surface of the tobacco filler accumulation body 10. When the heating element 52 of the heated tobacco body 5 is inserted, the tobacco filler accumulation body 10 receives a force in the longitudinal direction D1, and therefore the tobacco filler accumulation body 10 can be supported by the abutting solid portion of the support member 20.

[0041] The support member 20 has a plurality of protruding portions 251 on the peripheral surface portion 25. The protruding portions 251 are provided extending along the longitudinal direction D1. In this example, the protruding portions 251 are formed so as to extend over the entire length in the longitudinal direction D1 from the first end face 21 to the second end face 23 of the peripheral surface portion 25 of the support member 20. Moreover, a plurality of protruding portions 251 are provided over the entire circumference in the circumferential direction.

[0042] Each of the plurality of protrusions 251 has a tip 251a. In this example, the tip 251a is rounded. In FIG. 4B, a virtual line VL1 extending from the center C251 of the protrusion 251 toward the tip 251a when viewed from the first end face 21 side is the same as a virtual line extending from the central axis C20 of the support member 20 in the radial direction D2. The protrusion 251 has two side portions S251, and each of the two side portions S251 connects the tip 251a to the peripheral surface portion 25. In this case, when the support member 20 is viewed from the first end face 21 side, the angle θ between the virtual line VL1 and a virtual line VL2 provided along the side portion S251 corresponding to the tip 251a of the protrusion 251 is an acute angle.

[0043] In this embodiment, by providing the protrusion 251 on the peripheral surface 25, when the gripping portion of the assembly machine grips the support member 20, a frictional force is generated between the gripping portion of the assembly machine and the tip 251a of the protrusion 251. This makes it easier for the gripping portion of the assembly machine to grip the support member 20, and allows for stable production of heated tobacco cartridges.

[0044] 5 is a cross-sectional view of the support member 20 wrapped in the packaging member 40. As shown in FIG. 5, in this embodiment, a gap 26 is provided between the packaging member 40 wrapped around the outer periphery of the support member 20 and the peripheral surface portion 25 of the support member 20 by providing a convex portion 251. This allows aerogas to flow between the packaging member 40 and the peripheral surface portion 25. Therefore, the flow path of the aerogas is expanded in addition to the hole portion 27, and the fluidity of the aerogas can be improved. Furthermore, in this embodiment, since the gap 26 has a shape that expands toward the packaging member 40, the flow path of the aerosol is enlarged compared to when, for example, the convex portion has a substantially rectangular shape. It can be taken.

[0045] In this embodiment, the convex portions 251 each have the same height in the longitudinal direction D1. At this time, the height of the convex portion 251 is preferably 0.05 mm or more and 1 mm or less. If the height of the convex portion 251 is less than 0.05 mm, it may be difficult to maintain the shape of the convex portion, or the aerosol may not flow smoothly. If the height of the convex portion 251 exceeds 1 mm, the size of the gap between the support member 20 and the packaging member 40 increases, and part of the tobacco filler 11 may enter the gap, making it difficult to suppress the tobacco filler aggregate 10 from moving toward the filter 30. The above range is also desirable from the viewpoint of maintaining the shape of the convex portion.

[0046] In the present embodiment, the support member 20 can adjust the fluidity of the aerosol (airflow) from the tobacco filler accumulation 10 by adjusting the porosity between the peripheral surface portion 25 and the packaging member 40, which is the ratio of the cross-sectional area of ​​the through holes to the cross-sectional area of ​​the support member 20. The details of the porosity will be described later.

[0047] When the support member 20 of this embodiment is wrapped with the wrapping member 40, a plurality of gaps 26 are provided between the peripheral surface portion 25 and the wrapping member 40, and these gaps can be used as flow paths for the aerosol. The gaps in the first end surface of the support member 20 are the gaps 26 and six holes 27, and the ratio of the porosity of the gaps 26 to the holes 27 is preferably in the range of, for example, 1:1 to 1:12. The porosity of the gaps 26 is preferably in the range of 1% to 5% of the area surrounded by the wrapping member 40, and the porosity of the holes 27 is preferably in the range of 1% to 60%. If the gaps 26 exceed the upper limit of the above range, the wrapping member 40 may be crushed when pressure is applied from the outside, and the shape of the cartridge as a whole may not be maintained, or the support function of the support member 20 may not be maintained (for example, the tobacco filler accumulation may easily enter the gaps 26 and the holes 27). Furthermore, if the gap 26 is below the lower limit of the above range, the flow of the aerosol may be impaired (for example, the flow path becomes narrower, the amount of aerosol flowing decreases, and more force is required for suction).

[0048] In other words, by using this embodiment, when pressure is applied from the outside, the packaging member 40 does not collapse, and the solid portion of the support member 20 suppresses the movement of the tobacco filler assembly 10 toward the support member 20, and by providing multiple gaps 26 between the packaging member 40, the aerosol can flow through the gaps 26 in addition to the holes 27, thereby enhancing the effect of circulating the aerosol.

[0049] In addition to the porosity, the airflow resistance may be adjusted by the thickness and material of the packaging member 40. In this embodiment, since the gap 26 is provided between the packaging member 40 and the support member 20, when the filter 30 is sucked and the inside of the packaging member 40 becomes a negative pressure state, outside air is taken in through the packaging member 40. At this time, the degree to which the outside air is taken in can be changed by the airflow resistance of the packaging member 40.

[0050] <Second embodiment> In the first embodiment of the present invention, an example was shown in which the protrusions are arranged in the longitudinal direction of the peripheral surface of the support member, but the present invention is not limited to this. In this embodiment, a support member different from the first embodiment will be described. Specifically, a support member in which the protrusions are provided in a direction inclined with respect to the longitudinal direction will be described. Note that in this embodiment, the description of the same configuration as the first embodiment will be omitted as appropriate.

[0051] FIG. 6 is a side view of the support member 20A. As shown in FIG. 6, the support member 20A has a protrusion 251A on the peripheral surface portion 25A. The protrusion 251A may be provided extending in a direction intersecting the longitudinal direction D1. Specifically, the protrusion 251A is provided in a direction inclined relative to the longitudinal direction D1. In this case, the aerosol flow path is longer than when the protrusion 251A extends in the longitudinal direction D1, and the cooling time can be increased. Therefore, by using this embodiment, it becomes easier for the gripping portion (manufacturing device) of the assembly machine to grip the support member 20A, making it possible to stably manufacture heated tobacco cartridges, and the protrusion 251A is linear. This makes it possible to change the feeling of inhalation when inhaling aerosol compared to when the nozzle is provided on the nozzle surface.

[0052] <Third embodiment> In the first embodiment of the present invention, an example was shown in which the protrusions are arranged in the longitudinal direction of the peripheral surface of the support member, but the present invention is not limited to this. In this embodiment, a support member different from the first embodiment will be described. Specifically, a support member having protrusions arranged in a curved line will be described. In this embodiment, the description of the same configuration as the first embodiment will be omitted as appropriate.

[0053] Fig. 7 is a side view of the support member 20B. As shown in Fig. 7, in the peripheral surface portion 25B of the support member 20B, the convex portion 251B may have a tip portion and be arranged in a curved shape from the first end face 21 to the second end face 23. In this case, the flow path of the aerosol can be made longer than when the convex portion 251B extends linearly in the longitudinal direction D1. This makes it easier for the manufacturing machine (assembly machine) to grip, allows for stable manufacturing of heated tobacco cartridges, and allows for a change in the smoking comfort when a smoker inhales the aerosol compared to when the convex portion is arranged linearly.

[0054] <Fourth embodiment> In this embodiment, a support member different from that in the first embodiment will be described. Specifically, a support member in which a protrusion is provided in a wavy shape from a first end face to a second end face will be described. Note that in this embodiment, the description of the same configuration as in the first embodiment will be omitted as appropriate.

[0055] FIG. 8(A) is a side view of the support member 20C. FIG. 8(B) is a view showing the first end surface 21 of the support member 20C from the front. As shown in FIG. 8(A) and FIG. 8(B), in the support member 20C, the convex portion 251C may be arranged in a wave shape in the longitudinal direction D1 from the first end surface 21 toward the second end surface 23. In this case, the flow path of the aerosol can be made longer than when the convex portion 251C extends linearly in the longitudinal direction D1. This also changes the cooling time of the aerosol. Therefore, by using this embodiment, the gripping portion (manufacturing device) of the assembly machine can easily grip the support member 20C, and the heated tobacco cartridge can be stably manufactured, and the smoking comfort when the smoker inhales the aerosol can be changed compared to when the convex portion 251C is provided linearly.

[0056] <Fifth embodiment> In this embodiment, a support member different from that in the first embodiment will be described. Specifically, a support member in which a protrusion is provided along the circumferential direction will be described. Note that in this embodiment, the description of the same configuration as in the first embodiment will be omitted as appropriate.

[0057] FIG. 9(A) is a side view of the support member 20D. FIG. 9(B) is a view showing the first end surface 21 of the support member 20D as viewed from the front. As shown in FIG. 9(A) and FIG. 9(B), the support member 20D has the first end surface 21, the second end surface 23, and a peripheral surface portion 25D. The peripheral surface portion 25D of the support member 20D has a protruding portion 251D. The protruding portion 251D may have a tip portion 251Da and be provided along the circumferential direction. In this case, in FIG. 9(A), a virtual line VL1 extending from the center C251D of the protruding portion 251D toward the tip portion 251Da is the same as a virtual line extending in the radial direction D2 from the central axis C20D of the support member 20D. The protrusion 251D has two side portions S251D, and each of the two side portions S251D connects the tip portion 251Da and the peripheral portion 25D. In this case, when the support member 20D is viewed from the peripheral portion 25D side, the angle θ between the imaginary line VL1 and the imaginary line VL2 provided along the side portion S251D corresponding to the tip portion 251Da of the protrusion 251D is an acute angle.

[0058] The number of protrusions 251D is controlled by the longitudinal length of the support member 20D. In the case of this embodiment, the number of protrusions 251D that come into contact with the gripping portion of the assembly machine increases compared to when the protrusions 251 extend in the longitudinal direction D1. By increasing the number of contacting protrusions 251D, a large frictional force is likely to occur when the gripping portion of the assembly machine and the support member 20D come into contact. Therefore, by using this embodiment, it becomes easier for the gripping portion (manufacturing device) of the assembly machine to grip the support member 20D, and heated tobacco cartridges can be stably manufactured.

[0059] Sixth embodiment In this embodiment, a support member different from that in the first embodiment will be described. Specifically, a support member in which a plurality of protrusions are provided so as to intersect with each other will be described. Note that in this embodiment, the description of the same configuration as in the first embodiment will be omitted as appropriate.

[0060] FIG. 10(A) is a side view of the support member 20E. FIG. 10(B) is a view showing the first end surface 21 of the support member 20E from the front. As shown in FIG. 10(A) and FIG. 10(B), the support member 20E includes a plurality of protrusions 251E on the peripheral surface portion 25E. The protrusions 251E have a protrusion 251E1 and a protrusion 251E2. The protrusion 251E1 has a tip portion 251E1a and is provided along the longitudinal direction D1. The protrusion 251E2 has a tip portion 251E2a and is provided along the circumferential direction. The protrusions 251E1 and the protrusions 251E2 may be provided so as to intersect with each other.

[0061] In this case, the height of the protrusion 251E1 and the height of the protrusion 251E2 may be different. In this example, the height of the protrusion 251E2 is greater than the height of the protrusion 251E1. This increases the number of protrusions 251E2 that come into contact with the gripper of the assembly machine. By increasing the number of contacting protrusions, a large frictional force is more likely to occur when the gripper of the assembly machine comes into contact with the support member 20E.

[0062] In addition, in the present embodiment, the convex portion 251E1 and the circumferential convex portion 251E2 intersect to form a lattice-shaped groove 251EV. The aerosol can be partially retained in the groove 251EV. This diversifies the flow path of the aerosol and allows the cooling time of the aerosol to be varied. Therefore, by using this embodiment, the gripping portion (manufacturing device) of the assembly machine can easily grip the support member 20E, making it possible to stably manufacture heated tobacco cartridges and to change the smoking comfort when a smoker inhales the aerosol compared to when the convex portions are provided in a straight line.

[0063] Seventh embodiment In the first embodiment of the present invention, an example was shown in which the support member has projections and recesses over the entire length of the peripheral surface portion 25 in the longitudinal direction D1 and over the entire circumferential direction, but the present invention is not limited to this. In this embodiment, a support member 20 different from that in the first embodiment will be described. A support member 20 in which a projection 251 is provided in a partial region of the peripheral surface portion 25 will be described.

[0064] 11 to 14 are side views of the support member 20F. As shown in Fig. 11 to 14, the support member 20F has a protrusion 251F on a peripheral surface portion 25F. The protrusion 251F may be provided in a partial region of the peripheral surface portion 25F.

[0065] In this case, as shown in Fig. 11(A), the groove may be wider in the circumferential direction than in the longitudinal direction D1, or as shown in Fig. 11(B), the groove may be wider in the longitudinal direction D1 than in the circumferential direction.

[0066] Also, the support member 20F may be provided in a plurality of regions. For example, as shown in Fig. 12(A), when the protrusion 251F is provided widely in the circumferential direction, the protrusion 251F may be provided in a plurality of regions in the longitudinal direction D1. Also, as shown in Fig. 12(B), when the protrusion 251F is provided widely in the longitudinal direction D1, the protrusion 251F may be provided in a plurality of regions in the circumferential direction.

[0067] 13(A), the protrusion 251F may be provided on a part of the peripheral surface portion 25F over the entire circumferential direction of the peripheral surface portion 25F. In this case, as shown in FIG 13(B), the protrusion 251F may be provided in a plurality of regions in the longitudinal direction D1.

[0068] 14(A), the protrusion 251F may be provided on a part of the peripheral surface portion 25F over the entire length in the longitudinal direction D1 of the peripheral surface portion 25F. In this case, as shown in FIG 14(B), the protrusion 251F may be provided in a plurality of regions in the peripheral direction.

[0069] In the configuration of this embodiment, the protrusion 251F is provided on the peripheral surface 25F, so that frictional force is likely to occur when the assembly machine grips the support member 20F. This makes it easier for the gripping portion of the assembly machine to grip the support member 20F, and allows for stable production of heated tobacco cartridges.

[0070] Eighth embodiment In the first embodiment of the present invention, an example has been shown in which the protrusions 251 are provided extending in the longitudinal direction D1 of the peripheral surface portion 25 in the support member, but the present invention is not limited to this. In the present embodiment, a support member different from that in the first embodiment will be described. Specifically, a support member provided with protruding protrusions will be described.

[0071] FIG. 15(A) is a side view of the support member 20G. FIG. 15(B) is a front view of the first end face 21 of the support member 20G. As shown in FIG. 15(A) and FIG. 15(B), the peripheral surface portion 25G has a protruding portion 251G. The protruding portion 251G has a protruding shape. The protruding portion 251G is arranged in the longitudinal direction D1 and the circumferential direction. The protruding portions 251G each have a tip portion 251Ga. In FIG. 15(B), a virtual line VL1 extending from the center C251G of the protruding portion 251 toward the tip portion 251Ga when viewed from the first end face side is the same as a virtual line extending from the central axis C20G of the support member 20G in the radial direction D2. The protruding portion 251G is formed by two side portions S251 The two side portions S251G each connect the tip portion 251Ga and the circumferential surface portion 25G. When the support member 20G is viewed from the first end face 21 side, the angle θ between the imaginary line VL1 and the imaginary line VL2 provided along the side portion S251G corresponding to the tip portion 251Ga of the convex portion 251G is an acute angle.

[0072] In this embodiment, the convex portions 251G are provided in the same number as the protrusions, and the frictional force between the support member 20G and the gripping portion of the assembly machine when manufacturing the heated tobacco cartridge can be increased. This makes it easier for the gripping portion of the assembly machine to grip the support member 20G, and the heated tobacco cartridge can be manufactured stably.

[0073] In the present embodiment, the adjacent convex portions 251G are arranged in the longitudinal direction D1, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the other convex portion 251G adjacent to one convex portion 251G may be arranged in a direction intersecting the longitudinal direction D1.

[0074] FIG. 16(A) is a side view of the support member 20H. FIG. 16(B) is a view showing the first end surface 21 of the support member 20H as a front view. As shown in FIG. 16(A), the convex portions 251H may be arranged in a zigzag pattern in a diagonal direction with respect to the longitudinal direction D1. In this case, as shown in FIG. 16(B), when viewed from the first end surface 21 side, the adjacent convex portions 251H partially overlap each other. This makes the flow path of the aerosol longer than when the aerosol flows linearly. Therefore, the cooling time of the aerosol is diversified. This makes it easier for the assembly machine to hold the cartridge, allowing for stable production of heated tobacco cartridges, and allows for changes in the smoking comfort when the smoker inhales the aerosol.

[0075] <Ninth embodiment> In the first embodiment of the present invention, an example was shown in which the protrusions are arranged in the longitudinal direction of the peripheral surface of the support member, but the present invention is not limited to this. In this embodiment, a support member different from the first embodiment will be described. Specifically, a support member having a recess extending in the longitudinal direction on the peripheral surface will be described. Note that in this embodiment, the description of the same configuration as the first embodiment will be omitted as appropriate.

[0076] Fig. 17(A) is a side view of the support member 20J. Fig. 17(B) is a view showing the first end face 21 of the support member 20J as viewed from the front. As shown in Fig. 17(A) and Fig. 17(B), in the support member 20J, the peripheral surface portion 25J has a recess 252. The recess 252 is linearly disposed in the longitudinal direction D1 from the first end face 21 toward the second end face 23.

[0077] 17(B), the recess 252 has two side portions S252, and the two side portions S252J each connect the tip portion 252a to the peripheral portion 25J. In this case, when the support member 20J is viewed from the first end face 21 side, the angle θ between an imaginary line VL1 extending from the center C252 of the recess 252 to the tip portion 252a when viewed from the first end face 21 side and an imaginary line VL2 provided along the side portion S252 corresponding to the tip portion 252a of the recess 252 is an acute angle.

[0078] In the present embodiment, since the support member 20J has the recess 252, the tip of the gripper of the assembly machine can easily catch on the support member 20J. As a result, the gripper of the assembly machine can easily grip the support member 20J, and the heated tobacco cartridge can be stably manufactured.

[0079] In this embodiment, an example has been shown in which the recess 252 is arranged linearly in the longitudinal direction D1 from the first end face 21 to the second end face 23, but it may be arranged in accordance with the shapes described in the second to seventh embodiments, etc.

[0080] Tenth embodiment In the eighth embodiment of the present invention, an example in which the support member has a protruding convex portion on the peripheral surface is shown, but the present invention is not limited to this. In this embodiment, a support member different from the eighth embodiment of the present invention will be described. Specifically, an example in which a recessed portion having a recessed shape will be described.

[0081] Fig. 18(A) is a side view of the support member 20K. Fig. 18(B) is a view showing the first end surface 21 of the support member 20K as viewed from the front. As shown in Figs. 18(A) and 18(B), the peripheral surface portion 25K has a plurality of recesses 252K. The recesses 252K have a recessed shape having a tip portion 252Ka. The recesses 252K are arranged in the longitudinal direction D1 and the circumferential direction. Each of the recesses 252K has a tip portion 252Ka.

[0082] In the present embodiment, since the support member 20K has a plurality of recesses 252K, the tip of the gripping portion of the assembly machine can easily be caught in the recesses 252K of the support member 20K. As a result, the gripping portion of the assembly machine can easily grip the support member 20K, and the heated tobacco cartridge can be stably manufactured.

[0083] In addition, in the present embodiment, the flow path of the aerosol changes as the aerosol accumulates in the recess 252K, which can affect the comfort of the aerosol when the smoker inhales it.

[0084] <Eleventh embodiment> In this embodiment, a support member different from that in the first embodiment will be described. Specifically, a support member having a plurality of minute protrusions provided in the circumferential direction will be described. Note that in this embodiment, the description of the same configuration as that in the first embodiment will be omitted as appropriate.

[0085] Fig. 19(A) is a side view of the support member 20L. Fig. 19(B) is a front view of the first end face 21 of the support member 20L and an enlarged view of a portion thereof. As shown in Fig. 19(A) and Fig. 19(B), a plurality of minute protrusions 251L may be arranged in the longitudinal direction D1 from the first end face 21 toward the second end face 23 on the peripheral surface portion 25L of the support member 20L. The minute protrusions 251L have a pointed tip portion 251La.

[0086] The support member 20L has six holes 27L (through holes). Of the six through holes, five are evenly spaced apart from each other at 72 degrees in the circumferential direction. Of the six through holes, the remaining one is located in the center of the first end surface 21.

[0087] In this embodiment, 100 to 150 fine protrusions 251L may be arranged in the circumferential direction. The height of the fine protrusions 251L may be 1 / 100 to 1 / 50 of the width (diameter) of the support member. In this example, 137 fine protrusions 251L are arranged in the circumferential direction. In this example, the diameter of the support member is 7 mm, and the height T251L of the protrusions 251L is 0.1 mm. The width W251La (also called the pitch) between the tips 251La of adjacent protrusions 251L is 0.16 mm.

[0088] This embodiment increases the contact area (contact points) with the member to be gripped while maintaining the shape of the protrusion. This increases the friction between the gripping part of the assembly machine and the support member. This makes it easier for the gripping part of the assembly machine to grip the support member.

[0089] Furthermore, when the support member of this embodiment is wrapped in a wrapping member, a plurality of gaps 26 are provided between the peripheral surface portion 25L and the wrapping member 40, and these gaps can be used as aerosol flow paths. In this case, the gaps in the first end surface of the support member 20L are the gaps 26 and six holes 27L. The ratio of the porosity of the gaps 26 to the holes 27L is preferably in the range of, for example, 1:1 to 1:12. The porosity of the gaps 26 is preferably in the range of 2% to 4% of the area surrounded by the wrapping member 40, and the porosity of the holes 27L is preferably in the range of 2% to 48%. If the gaps 26 exceed the upper limit of the above range, the wrapping member 40 may be crushed when pressure is applied from the outside, and the shape of the cartridge as a whole may not be maintained, or the support function of the support member 20 may not be maintained (for example, the tobacco filler 11 of the tobacco filler assembly 10 may easily enter the gaps 26 and the holes 27). Furthermore, if the voids 26 are below the lower limit of the above range, the flow of the aerosol may be impaired (for example, the flow path becomes narrower, the amount of aerosol flowing decreases, and more force is required for suction). In this embodiment, the porosity of the holes 27 is 30%, and the porosity of the voids 26 is 3%.

[0090] In other words, by using this embodiment, the solid portion of the support member 20L suppresses the movement of the tobacco filler assembly 10 toward the filter 30, and by providing multiple gaps 26 between the support member 20L and the packaging member 40, the aerosol can flow through the gaps 26 in addition to the hole portion 27L, thereby enhancing the effect of circulating the aerosol.

[0091] (Modification) Within the scope of the concept of the present invention, a person skilled in the art may come up with various modifications and alterations, and it is understood that these modifications and alterations also fall within the scope of the present invention. For example, those in which a person skilled in the art appropriately adds, deletes, or modifies the design of the above-mentioned embodiments, or adds, omits, or modifies the conditions of processing, are also included in the scope of the present invention as long as they include the gist of the present invention. In addition, the configurations of each embodiment may be used in appropriate combination.

[0092] In the first embodiment of the present invention, an example has been shown in which the heated tobacco cartridge 1 is provided with a tobacco filler assembly 10, a support member 20, and a filter 30 that serves as a mouthpiece, but the present invention is not limited to this. Another member, such as a cooling member or a heat insulating member, may be provided between the support member 20 and the filter 30. Also, a cavity may be provided between the support member and the filter to improve breathability. In this case, the cavity may be provided in a range of 1 mm to 20 mm. This results in a wide cavity portion, which can improve the amount of aerosol generated by the heated aroma generating body that is sucked in. Also, the cavity may be an exchange space. In addition, even if there are manufacturing errors such as tea leaves or filters being a little too long, the hollow space can absorb the manufacturing errors.

[0093] Furthermore, the heated tobacco cartridge 1 may be composed of only the tobacco filler assembly 10 and the support member 20. In this case, the heated tobacco cartridge 1 does not need to have a filter.

[0094] In the first embodiment of the present invention, the holes 27 (through holes) have the same radius and are circular, but are not limited thereto. The holes 27 may have different radii. The holes 27 may be elliptical or rectangular.

[0095] In the first embodiment of the present invention, an example in which the support member 20 has holes has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this. Depending on the shape of the protrusion 251, the holes 27 may not be provided.

[0096] In the first embodiment of the present invention, an example in which a plurality of convex portions or concave portions are provided has been shown, but the present invention is not limited to this. By providing at least one convex portion or concave portion, the problem of the present application can be solved.

[0097] In the first embodiment of the present invention, the protrusions 251 have the same height, but the present invention is not limited to this. The protrusions 251 may have different heights. In addition, when the protrusions 251 extend in the longitudinal direction D1, the heights of the protrusions 251 may be different in the longitudinal direction D1. In addition, when the protrusions 251 extend along the circumferential direction, the heights of the protrusions 251 may be different in the circumferential direction. In addition, the heights of adjacent protrusions 251 may be different. This diversifies the flow path of the aerosol. Therefore, it is possible to change the smoking comfort of the aerosol obtained in the heated tobacco cartridge.

[0098] In the first embodiment of the present invention, an example was shown in which the imaginary line VL1 extending from the center of the convex portion 251 toward the tip portion 251a when viewed from the first end face side is the same as the imaginary line extending in the radial direction D2 from the central axis C20 of the support member 20, but is not limited to this. FIG. 20 is a front view of the first end face 21 of the support member 20M. As shown in FIG. 20, the peripheral surface portion 25M of the support member 20M has a convex portion 251M. The imaginary line VL1 extending from the center C251M of the convex portion 251M toward the tip portion 251Ma may be different from the imaginary line VL3 extending in the radial direction from the central axis C20M of the support member 20M. In this case, it is desirable that the angle formed by the two imaginary lines VL1 and VL3 is less than 5 degrees. This can provide the same effect as when the center and tip portion 251a of the convex portion 251 of the first embodiment are provided on the same imaginary line.

[0099] In the fourth embodiment of the present invention, the protrusions 251C are arranged in a wavy shape in the longitudinal direction D1, but the present invention is not limited to this. The protrusions 251N of the support member 20N may be arranged in the circumferential direction or in an oblique direction with respect to the longitudinal direction D1. FIG. 21 is a side view of the support member 20N. For example, as shown in FIG. 21, the protrusions 251N may be arranged in a wavy shape in a direction intersecting the longitudinal direction D1.

[0100] In the sixth embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of protrusions 251 are provided to intersect in the longitudinal direction D1 and the circumferential direction, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, some of the plurality of protrusions 251E may extend in a direction inclined with respect to the longitudinal direction D1 or the circumferential direction. The protrusions 251E may intersect in the longitudinal direction D1 and the circumferential direction and have a wavy shape. This diversifies the flow path of the aerosol, making it possible to change the smoking comfort when the smoker inhales the aerosol.

[0101] In addition, in each embodiment of the present invention, an example in which the concave or convex portion is provided with a certain regularity has been shown, but the present invention is not limited thereto. FIG. 22 is a side view of the support member 20P. As shown in FIG. 22, the support member 20P has a convex portion 251P on the peripheral surface portion 25P. The convex portion 251P may be provided irregularly. In this case, by providing the convex portion 251P, frictional force is generated between the gripping portion of the assembly machine and the convex portion, and the flow path of the aerosol is diversified, which makes it possible to change the smoking comfort when the smoker inhales the aerosol. Therefore, it becomes easier for the assembly machine to grip, the heated tobacco cartridge can be stably manufactured, and the smoking comfort of the aerosol can be changed.

[0102] In addition, in the embodiment of the present invention, an example having a tip portion is shown, but this is not limited thereto. FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view of the support member 20Q and an enlarged view of the convex portion 251Q. As shown in FIG. 23, the upper portion 251Qu of the convex portion 251Q of the peripheral surface portion 25Q in the support member 20Q may be flat. In this case, when the support member 20 is viewed from the first end face 21 side, it is desirable that the width W251Qu of the upper portion 251Qu of the convex portion 251Q is one-fifth or less of the width W251Qd of the lower portion 251Qd of the convex portion 251. This can provide the same effect as when the convex portion has a tip portion (top).

[0103] In the first embodiment of the present invention, an example was shown in which one protrusion has a tip portion with one apex formed thereon, but this is not limited thereto. FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional view of the support member 20R and an enlarged view of the protrusion 251R. As shown in FIG. 24, the support member 20R has a protrusion 251R on the peripheral surface portion 25R. The protrusion 251R may have a tip portion 251Ra with multiple apexes formed thereon. In this case, an angle formed by an imaginary line VL1R connecting the center C251R of the protrusion and one apex 251Ra1 at the tip portion 251Ra and an imaginary line VL2R provided along the side portion S251R corresponding to the apex 251Ra1 is an acute angle. This prevents the contact with the member to be gripped from occurring. The area (contact points) increases, which increases the friction between the gripping part of the assembly machine and the support member, making it easier for the gripping part of the assembly machine to grip the support member.

[0104] In the first embodiment of the present invention, an example has been described in which the protrusion has two sides when the first end face 21 is the front face, but the present invention is not limited to this. The protrusion may have an arc shape.

[0105] FIG. 25(A) is a side view of the support member 20S. FIG. 25(B) is a view showing the first end surface 21 of the support member 20S as viewed from the front. As shown in FIG. 25(A) and FIG. 25(B), the support member 20S has a protruding portion 251S on the peripheral surface portion 25S. The protruding portion 251S is arranged in the longitudinal direction D1 and the circumferential direction. Each of the protruding portions 251S has a tip portion 251Sa. In FIG. 25(B), a virtual line VL1 extending from the center C251S of the protruding portion 251S toward the tip portion 251Sa when viewed from the first end surface side is the same as a virtual line extending from the central axis C20S of the support member 20 in the radial direction D2. The protruding portion 251S includes a circular arc S251S and connects the tip portion 251Sa and the peripheral surface portion 25S.

[0106] In this embodiment, by providing the protrusion 251S on the peripheral surface 25S, when the gripper of the assembly machine grips the support member 20S, frictional force is generated between the gripper of the assembly machine and the tip 21Sa of the protrusion 251S. This makes it easier for the gripper of the assembly machine to grip the support member 20S, and allows for stable production of heated tobacco cartridges. [Explanation of symbols]

[0107] 1 Cartridge, 5 Heat-not-burn tobacco body, 10 Tobacco filler accumulation body, 11 Tobacco filler, 20 Support member, 21 First end face, 23 Second end face, 25 Peripheral surface portion, 26 Gap, 27 Hole portion, 30 Filter, 40 Packaging member, 50 Insertion portion, 51 Insertion portion, 52 Heating element, 251 Convex portion, 251a Tip portion, 252 Concave portion, 252a Tip portion

Claims

[Claim 1] an aerosol-generating tobacco filler mass comprising a tobacco material; A filter that constitutes the mouthpiece; a support member disposed between the tobacco filler stack and the filter; The support member is disposed adjacent to one end surface of the filter, a cylindrical shape having a first end surface and a second end surface and a peripheral surface portion formed between the first end surface and the second end surface, and a through hole extending from the first end surface to the second end surface; The peripheral surface portion has a plurality of protrusions, The protrusion is provided to extend along a longitudinal direction around the entire circumferential circumference of the support member, Each of the protrusions has a tip portion and two side portions, and each of the side portions connects the tip portion and the peripheral portion, an angle θ between a virtual line VL1 extending from the center of the convex portion toward the tip portion when the support member is viewed from the first end surface side and a virtual line VL2 provided along the side portion corresponding to the tip portion of the convex portion is an acute angle; A cartridge for a heated tobacco product.

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