Smoking article filter and insertable filter unit for smoking article filter

Abstract

To provide an insertable filter unit for a smoking article filter.SOLUTION: A smoking article filter 20 comprises a storage 25 to receive a filter insert unit 30. The filter insert unit 30 is secured to the filter 20 once inserted. The filter 20 and the filter insert unit 30 may include additives such as flavorants, colorants or sorbents. The filter unit comprises retaining means to retain the insertable filter unit in the smoking article filter.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to smoking article filters and insertable filter units. [Background technology]

[0002] Cigarettes and other smoking articles contain a quantity of tobacco that can be burned to produce smoke that is inhaled by the user. Filters for smoking articles are used to modify the smoke resulting from tobacco combustion before it reaches the user's mouth. Filters known in the art for this purpose can be formed of a plug of fibrous cellulose acetate or other material with similar physical properties. Cellulose acetate is known to absorb particulate smoke constituents in particular. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0003] Various additives can be added to smoking article filters to improve the removal of specific smoke constituents, examples of which include smoke sorbents such as activated carbon, which adsorb specific smoke constituents and remove them from the smoke stream passing through the filter.

[0004] In addition to removing smoke constituents, filter additives can also impart properties to the smoke that passes through the filter, for example by incorporating fragrances or flavorants to alter the aroma or taste characteristics of the smoke that passes through the filter.

[0005] Traditionally, smoking articles with filters incorporating the above features are sold in packs, with the smoking articles in each pack sharing the same flavour, aroma and adsorption characteristics, and therefore not allowing the user to vary the smoke characteristics of the smoking article to suit their preferences. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In an embodiment of the invention described in more detail herein, there is provided an insertable filter unit for a smoking article filter, the filter unit comprising retention means for retaining the insertable filter unit within the smoking article filter.

[0007] The retention means may comprise a mechanical retention means or may comprise an adhesive.

[0008] The insertable filter unit may be formed from a manually compressible material.

[0009] The insertable filter unit may have a cross-sectional shape, when viewed from an end, configured to increase its surface area.

[0010] In embodiments of the invention described in more detail herein, an insert filter unit is provided that includes a smoke modifying material.

[0011] The smoke modifying substance may be contained in a frangible capsule contained within the insertable filter unit.

[0012] Breakable capsules may be filled with water.

[0013] The smoke modifying material may be in granular or strand form.

[0014] The smoke modifying material may include a carbon sorbent.

[0015] The carbon adsorbent may have a monolithic construction.

[0016] The smoke modifying material may include a colorant.

[0017] The smoke modifying substances may include flavorants.

[0018] The flavorings may include at least one of menthol, lemon, tangerine, lime, coffee, and / or tea.

[0019] The smoke modifying material may include water.

[0020] In an embodiment of the invention described in more detail herein, a smoking article filter is provided which includes a housing for housing a insertable filter unit.

[0021] The recess may be at least partially surrounded by a wall formed of filter material.

[0022] The compartment may be at least partially surrounded by a wall formed from paper.

[0023] In an embodiment of the invention described in more detail herein, there is provided a smoking article filter comprising a recess having a filter unit retaining means disposed therein.

[0024] The filter unit retention means may comprise a mechanical retention means.

[0025] The retention means may comprise a mouth end cap.

[0026] The retention means may include an adhesive applied to a major surface of the recess.

[0027] A kit of parts may be provided which comprises the insertable filter unit and the smoking article filter.

[0028] The above advantages and features are representative of the embodiments presented to aid in the understanding of the present invention, and these advantages and features are not exhaustive or exclude other advantages and features. Of course, they should not be considered as limiting the present invention as defined in the claims and its equivalents. Other features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description, the accompanying drawings, and the claims. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0029] In order that the present invention may be readily understood, an embodiment thereof will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: [Figure 1] 1 is a cross-sectional side view of a smoking article and filter insertion unit according to a first embodiment of the present invention; [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the filter and the filter insertion unit shown in FIG. 1. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a filter and filter insertion unit according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] FIG. 11 is a side view of a filter and filter insertion unit according to a third embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 5] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a filter and filter insertion unit according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] A cross-sectional side view of a filter and filter insertion unit according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] A cross-sectional side view of a filter and filter insertion unit according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] 13 is a cross-sectional side view of a filter and filter insertion unit according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention. FIG. [Figure 9] 13 is a cross-sectional side view of a filter and filter insertion unit according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. [Figure 10] A cross-sectional side view of a filter and filter insertion unit according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a filter and filter insertion unit according to a tenth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12] A cross-sectional side view of a filter and filter insertion unit according to an eleventh embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13] A cross-sectional side view of a filter and filter insertion unit according to a twelfth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 14]A cross-sectional side view of a filter and filter insertion unit according to a thirteenth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 15] A cross-sectional side view of a filter and filter insertion unit according to a fourteenth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 16] A cross-sectional side view of a filter and filter insertion unit according to a fifteenth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 17] A cross-sectional side view of a filter and filter insertion unit according to a sixteenth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 18] A cross-sectional side view of a filter and filter insertion unit according to a seventeenth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 19] A side cross-sectional view of a filter and filter insertion unit according to an eighteenth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 20] A cross-sectional side view of a filter and filter insertion unit according to a nineteenth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 21] 20 is a cross-sectional view seen from an end face of the filter insertion unit shown in any one of FIGS. 1 to 19 inserted into any one of the filters shown in FIGS. [Figure 22] 13 is a cross-sectional end view of a filter insertion unit having a different cross-sectional shape and inserted into a matching filter. [Figure 23] 11 is a cross-sectional side view of a filter and filter insertion unit according to a further embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 24] 11 is a cross-sectional side view of a filter and filter insertion unit according to a further embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 25A] FIG. 2 is a three-dimensional view of another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 25B] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional side view of a filter according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 26] FIG. 2 is a side view of another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 27] FIG. 2 is a side view of another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 28A] 1A-1D are end views of a filter and insertion unit according to several embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 28B] 1A-1D are end views of a filter and insertion unit according to several embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 28C] 1A-1D are end views of a filter and insertion unit according to several embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 29A] FIG. 13 is a side view of a filter and filter insertion unit according to a further embodiment. [Figure 29B] 13 is an end view of a filter insertion unit according to a further embodiment. FIG. [Figure 29C] 13 is an end view of a filter insertion unit according to a further embodiment. FIG. [Diagram 30] FIG. 13 is a side view of a filter and filter insertion unit according to another embodiment. [Figure 31A] FIG. 13 is a side view of a filter insertion unit according to a further embodiment. [Figure 31B] FIG. 13 is a side view of a filter insertion unit according to a further embodiment. [Diagram 32] FIG. 2 is a three-dimensional view of a filter according to one embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0030] 1 shows a smoking article 10 having a mouth end 11 and a distal end 12. The smoking article 10 comprises a tobacco rod 15 and a filter 20 attached thereto. The tobacco rod 15 is surrounded by a tobacco wrapper 16.

[0031] Filter 20 is shown in further detail in Figure 2. Filter 20 comprises a cylindrical filtration region 21 and a downstream tubular filtration region 22. The cylindrical filtration region and tubular filtration region 22 may be formed of a filter material such as fibrous cellulose acetate or other materials known in the art.

[0032] Cylindrical filtering region 21 may be approximately 12 mm in length and tubular filtering region 22 may be approximately 15 mm in length.

[0033] The filter material of the cylindrical filtration region 21 may be impregnated with a sorbent material, such as activated carbon, which may be in the form of beads, granules, or threads.

[0034] One embodiment of a filter 20 including an activated carbon section is shown in Figure 3. In this embodiment, the cylindrical section 21 is a dual filter section, comprising a region of filter material 21A, such as cellulose acetate, and an upstream region 21B including activated carbon. The region of filter material 21A may be approximately 5mm in length, and the region 21B including activated carbon may be approximately 7mm in length. Alternatively, the cylindrical section 21 may be provided as a triple filter section, comprising two regions of filter material without activated carbon, one on each side of a central region including activated carbon.

[0035] The cylindrical region 21 and the tubular filtering region 22 may be wrapped in a plug wrapper 23. The filter 20 may be attached to the tobacco rod 15 using tipping paper 24 which surrounds the filter 20. The tipping paper 24 shown in Figures 1-3 is slightly longer than the filter 20 so that an overlap is formed when the tipping paper 24 wraps around the filter 20. This overlap may have some form of adhesive, for example a glue applied to its inner surface which adheres to the outer surface of the tobacco wrapper 16 during use. Other attachment means known in the art for attaching the filter 20 to the tobacco rod 15 may also be used.

[0036] In some embodiments, the inner surface of the plug wrapper 23 may comprise patches of carbon granules adhered thereto using a suitable adhesive.

[0037] Filter 20 has a recess 25 defined by a cylindrical filtration region 21 and a tubular filtration region 22. Recess 25 extends from mouth end 11 and is arranged to receive a cylindrical filter insertion unit 30. Recess 25 extends along at least a portion of the length of filter 20. The shape of recess 25 may be tailored to closely match the shape of filter insertion unit 30. In the embodiment shown in Figures 1-3, cylindrical filter insertion unit 30 closely matches the hollow cylindrical shape of recess 25.

[0038] An alternative filter 20 is shown in Figure 4. In this embodiment, the tipping paper 24 encasing the cylindrical filter material 21 is made of a stiff cardboard-like material. 2 and 3. The filter insert unit 30 extends beyond the mouth end of the material 21 to form a recess 25 into which a filter insert unit 30 can be inserted. In this embodiment, the tubular filtration section 22 is not used.

[0039] An alternative filter to filter 20 shown in Figure 4 is of similar construction to that shown in Figure 2, except that the tubular filtration region 22 is replaced with a cardboard tube. In this embodiment, the tipping paper 24 would be formed of a conventional tipping paper material that is softer than the cardboard-like material described above with reference to Figure 4. In this alternative embodiment, the plug wrapper 23 is shorter than that shown in Figure 2 and may only surround the cylindrical filter material 21.

[0040] The filter insertion unit 30 may have a variety of dimensions, such as length and diameter, and may be used with smoking articles of a variety of sizes. The filter 20 and filter insertion unit 30 may be used with a variety of smoking articles ranging in size from "demislim" to "king size" as known in the art. Preferably, the filter insertion unit is about 5 mm to about 20 mm in length.

[0041] The filter insert unit 30 may be formed of a filter material such as cellulose acetate or other smoking article filter material known in the art and may be wrapped around with a plug wrapper or other suitable material. According to one embodiment, the wrapper may be embossed to provide a plurality of raised areas having dimensions of approximately 1 mm. This material may act as a particulate absorbent for smoke constituents.

[0042] In one embodiment, the filter insertion unit 30 comprises unwrapped acetate fibers that have been held together with a higher concentration of plasticizer than that used in embodiments in which the filter insertion unit 30 is packaged.

[0043] In another embodiment, the filter insertion unit 30 may comprise randomly oriented, short length, discontinuous cellulose acetate fibers and may be made using manufacturing equipment such as a Turmalin machine available from Hauni Maschinenbau AG (Germany).

[0044] The filter insertion unit 30 may contain recycled tobacco paper or compressed cut tobacco leaves and may be wrapped in recycled paper or plug wrapper of a type known in the art. The filter insertion unit 30 may also contain one or more flavorants, which may be in liquid or granular, particulate or other form.

[0045] A tobacco rod formed in a conventional manner may be cut to suitable dimensions for use as a filter insertion unit 30 and wrapped in a suitable wrapping material, such as cigarette paper or plug wrapper, which, according to one embodiment, may be embossed to provide a plurality of raised areas having dimensions less than about 1 mm.

[0046] In embodiments of the filter insertion unit 30 having an embossed wrapper, the entire length of the filter insertion unit 30 may be embossed or only a portion of the length. The filter insertion unit 30 may be embossed in a band-like pattern.

[0047] The filter insert unit 30 may be arranged to provide what is known in the art as the Dalmatian effect, which may be achieved by using carbon granules, tobacco in whole leaf form, reconstituted tobacco, or other plants or their derivatives (e.g., menthol) in addition to the filter tow (e.g., cellulose acetate tow) to provide a speckled effect.

[0048] The filter insertion unit 30 may comprise a combination of filter material, such as cellulose acetate, and reconstituted tobacco paper and / or compressed cut tobacco and / or material and / or twist used to obtain a pronounced Dalmatian effect, in which case the filter insertion unit 30 may be wrapped in reconstituted tobacco paper or a plug wrapper of a type known in the art.

[0049] The filter insertion unit 30 according to any of the above embodiments may include flavorings such as menthol, lemon, tangerine, lime, coffee, or tea, by way of example only. Leaf-based flavorings such as tobacco, menthol, tea, and others may be added to the filter insertion unit 30 in whole leaf form and / or as an extract.

[0050] In some embodiments, the filter insert unit 30 may contain thin cut tobacco and / or one or more additives selected from mint, borage, tea, various aromatic plants, or any other suitable additives.

[0051] The inserted filter insertion unit 30 is positioned to improve the characteristics of the smoke when the smoking article 10 is smoked by a user.

[0052] Of course, the smoking article 10 may be smoked in the same manner without the filter insertion unit 30 inserted into the housing 25. The materials of the cylindrical filtering region 21, tubular filtering region 22 may be such that they provide a pressure drop corresponding to the pressure drop of a conventional smoking article when a user draws on the mouth end 11 of the smoking article 10. The filter insertion unit 30 may be arranged such that when the filter insertion unit 30 is inserted into the housing 25 of the filter 20 it does not significantly change the pressure drop.

[0053] The filter 20 may include menthol or other flavourings. A filter insertion unit 30 intended for insertion into a menthol or other flavoured smoking article may include additives arranged to complement the smoking experience of the smoking article.

[0054] The filter insert unit 30 may contain water. A preferred water-containing filter insert unit 30 includes a plurality of capsules, such as capsule 42 described below with reference to Figure 15, that contain water.

[0055] Adsorbents such as activated carbon granules, capsules, or threads may be incorporated into the filter insert unit 30 .

[0056] In one embodiment, the filter insert unit 30 may include activated carbon granules bound together with a binder.

[0057] In another embodiment, the filter insert unit 30 may include carbon that is monolithic in structure. Monolithic carbon structures, or carbon monoliths, are units of carbon that are not granules but have a high surface area similar to granular activated carbon. Carbon monoliths do not require the use of binders, thereby increasing the surface area of ​​the carbon available for adsorption of targeted smoke constituents relative to carbon structures that use binders. Suitable monolithic carbon structures may be formed by extrusion, and an example of a suitable monolith and a method for its manufacture are described in U.S. Patent No. 5,399,633, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0058] Colorants may also be incorporated, for example, as indicators to a user of the flavor or adsorbent contents of the filter insertion unit 30. For example, a green colorant may be used to indicate that the filter insertion unit 30 is flavored with menthol.

[0059] When the filter insertion unit 30 is inserted into the filter 20 of the smoking article 10, it is useful to have additional means for securing the filter insertion unit therein. Figures 5 to 20 illustrate various embodiments of the filter 20, the filter insertion unit 30 and the manner in which they are retained within the filter 20. It will be appreciated that in the following description, retention means refers to structures which provide better retention than that achieved by typical frictional contact between two substantially flat contacting surfaces.

[0060] For illustrative purposes only, the following figures omit tobacco rods such as tobacco rod 15 shown in Figure 1. The examples listed below are not intended to be inconsistent with the above examples with any additional modifications that may be required and that would be apparent to one skilled in the art.

[0061] In Fig. 5, a filter 20 and a filter insertion unit 30 are shown, which are substantially similar to those described above with reference to Figs. 1 and 2. However, this embodiment differs from the above in that the tubular filtration region 22 is shorter than the tubular filtration region 22 shown in Fig. 2. A gap 26 is provided between the tubular filtration region 22 and the cylindrical filtration region 21. The filter insertion unit 30 is made of a compressible material and is capable of expanding at least partially into the gap 26 when inserted into the receiving portion 25. In that way, the filter insertion unit 30 is fixed in the receiving portion 25.

[0062] 6 shows the arrangement of the filter 20 including the filter insertion unit 30 and the storage section 25. A plurality of small hook-shaped projections 31 are arranged on the main surface of the filter insertion unit 30, and a corresponding number of small loops (not shown) are arranged on the inner surface of the storage section 25, which may engage with the hook-shaped projections 31 when the filter insertion unit 30 is inserted. For example, Velcro (registered trademark) may be provided on the filter insertion unit 30 and / or the inside of the storage section 25. In this way, when the filter insertion unit 30 is inserted into the storage section 25, resistance to removal of the filter insertion unit 30 is strengthened, so that the filter insertion unit 30 is less likely to fall off inadvertently.

[0063] 7 shows a filter 20 and a filter insertion unit 30 with an alternative mechanical locking means. One end of the filter insertion unit 30 is provided with a raised stop 32 on its outer surface. A corresponding recess 33 is provided in the housing 25 and is shaped to complement the raised stop 32. The corresponding recess 33 may be located away from the mouth end 11 of the filter 20. During insertion, the filter insertion unit 30 may be rotated to align the raised stop 32 with the recess 33 in the housing 25 to secure the filter insertion unit 30 within the housing 25 of the filter 20.

[0064] 8 shows a filter 20 and a filter insertion unit 30 with yet another alternative mechanical locking mechanism. The surface of the filter insertion unit 30 is provided with several raised points 34 to improve the frictional fit between the housing 25 of the filter 20 and the filter insertion unit 30. The raised areas may be formed by piercing the outer wrapper of the filter insertion unit 30 outward.

[0065] Alternatively, the filter 20 and the filter insertion unit 30 may be formed from materials with different compressibility, and the filter insertion unit 30 may be secured within the housing portion 25 of the filter 20 .

[0066] 9 shows the filter 20 and the filter insertion unit 30 with the housing 25 disposed therein. In this embodiment, the filter insertion unit 30 is formed from a material that is softer than the material used to form the filter 20. In this embodiment, the diameter D1 of the filter insertion unit 30 is greater than the diameter D2 of the housing 25. To facilitate easier insertion, the filter insertion unit 30 may be compressed by a user during use. Once inserted, the outward pressure of the filter insertion unit 30 as it returns to its original, uncompressed dimensions acts on the inner walls of the housing 25, which pressure serves to hold the filter insertion unit 30 securely in place.

[0067] An alternative embodiment is shown in Figure 10, which also relies on the compressibility of the filter insertion unit material. An inwardly extending lip 35 is located at the mouth end 11 of the filter 20. The mouth end 11 of the housing 25 at which the lip 35 is located has a diameter D3 that is smaller than the diameter D2 (shown in Figure 9) of the remainder of the housing 25 as well as the diameter of the filter insertion unit 30. During insertion, the filter insertion unit 30 can be compressed to a smaller diameter so that it can be pushed past the lip 35 into the housing 25. The filter insertion unit 30 then expands back to its substantially natural, uncompressed diameter, allowing the filter insertion unit 30 to be inserted into the housing 25. A secure fit is provided between knit 30 and filter 20 .

[0068] In Figure 11, an alternative filter 20 is shown in which a tubular filter region 22 includes an upstream section 22A and a downstream section 22B, the two sections 22A and 22B may have the same or different diameters. In one embodiment, the downstream section 22B may have a smaller diameter than the upstream section, in which case the downstream section 22B may function as a lip in a similar manner to the lip 35 described above with reference to Figure 10. In this embodiment, the filter insertion unit 30 may be formed of a manually compressible material.

[0069] In Figure 12, the filter 20 is shown with an end cap 36 attached to its mouth end 11. The filter insertion unit 30 is inserted and then the end cap 36 is closed. The end cap 36 shown in Figure 12 is hinged about a point 37 at the mouth end 11 of the filter 20, although other means of securing the end cap 36 to the filter 20 as will be apparent to those skilled in the art may alternatively be used. The end cap 36 may be formed of a material that is substantially smoke permeable. The filter insertion unit 30 may be dimensioned such that the end cap 36 closes without compression. Alternatively, the end cap 36 may press against the filter insertion unit 30 if the filter insertion unit 30 is formed of a compressible material.

[0070] As shown in Figure 13, a gate 38 may be mounted about a pivot 39 at the mouth end 11 of the filter 20. The gate 38 and pivot 39 may be arranged so that the gate 38 swings inward (as indicated by the curved arrow) but not outward. In use, the filter insertion unit 30 is pushed into the recess 25 of the filter 20, with the gate 38 being forced inwardly so that it is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis X of the filter 20 as shown in Figure 13. If the filter insertion unit 30 is made of a compressible material, pressure may then be applied to compress the filter unit 30 so that the end of the filter 20 closest to the mouth end 11 is forced through the gate 38. Once the gate 38 is unobstructed, it may be biased so that it returns to a position substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X.

[0071] An alternative embodiment of filter 20 and filter insertion unit 30 with housing 25 disposed therein is shown in Figure 14. In a cross-sectional side view as shown in Figure 14, housing 25 and filter insertion unit 30 appear trapezoidal. Filter insertion unit 30, which is made of a manually compressible material and has a square cross section, may be inserted and secured securely into housing 25, which has a trapezoidal cross section.

[0072] 15 shows another embodiment of the invention, showing a filter 20 with a recess 25 disposed therein and a filter insertion unit 30 having compressible pleats 40 disposed on its surface. The pleats 40 are formed of a plurality of ridges that are radially disposed around the filter insertion unit 30, are substantially parallel to the axis of the filter insertion unit 30 and extend along a portion of the length of the filter insertion unit 30. The portion of the filter insertion unit 30 that is not covered by the pleats 40 forms a bar 41.

[0073] In use, the rods 41 provide a means for gripping the filter insertion unit 30 and positioning it within the recess 25 of the filter 20. Prior to insertion, the pleats 40 are biased to project outwardly beyond the remainder of the filter insertion unit 30. When the filter insertion unit 30 is fully inserted into the recess 25, the pleats 40 are compressed and therefore securely fixed.

[0074] Instead of providing a mechanical locking mechanism, a chemical locking mechanism is provided as shown in Figure 16. The outer surface of the filter insertion unit 30 is coated with adhesive A, and the inner surface of the housing 25 is coated with adhesive B. In use, when the filter insertion unit 30 is inserted into the housing 25, adhesive A comes into contact with adhesive B, and a bond is formed between the filter 20 and the filter insertion unit 30 by a chemical reaction.

[0075] Alternatively, the filter insertion unit 30 may include a frangible capsule 42 as shown in Figure 17. When the filter insertion unit 30 is inserted into the housing 25, the filter 20 is squeezed inward in the direction of the facing arrows shown in Figure 17. The frangible capsule 42 ruptures, releasing the adhesive stored therein. The insertion unit 30 may be formed of a material that allows the adhesive to migrate to an exterior surface of the insertion unit 30. The adhesive secures the filter 20 and the filter insertion unit 30 to one another.

[0076] The frangible capsule 42 may contain water and / or an adhesive, along with any of the flavorings, colorings, or adsorbents described herein.

[0077] An alternative arrangement of adhesive between the filter 20 and the filter insertion unit 30 is shown in Figure 18. In this embodiment, the adhesive is applied only to the outer surface of the insertion unit 30. When the filter insertion unit 30 is inserted into the filter 20 housing 25, the outer surfaces of the filter 20 are pressed firmly in the directions indicated by the facing arrows. The pressure so applied to the adhesive on the outer surfaces of the filter insertion unit 30 causes the adhesive to bond the filter 20 and the filter insertion unit 30 together.

[0078] Alternatively, as shown in Figure 19, the adhesive may be applied to the outer surface of the insertion unit 30. The adhesive may be applied in one or more radially disposed bands 43 that run the length of the filter insertion unit 30. Prior to use, these bands may be covered with a protective cover that is removed just prior to inserting the filter insertion unit 30 into the filter 20 housing 25. The adhesive bands 43 then adhere the filter insertion unit 30 to the inside of the filter 20 housing 25.

[0079] The filter insertion unit 30 described above may be formed of a filter material such as cellulose acetate, although other materials may alternatively be used. For example, the filter insertion unit 30 may be formed of wax or a similar substance. Once inserted, the insertion unit 30 may melt slightly due to heat transferred during smoking from the distal end 12 of the smoking article 10 shown in Figure 1. The filter insertion unit 30 may be so adhered to the inner surface of the housing 25 of the filter 20. The slight melting of the wax may facilitate the release of flavourants and fragrances contained within the filter insertion unit 30.

[0080] 20 shows an alternative filter insertion unit 44, which is in the form of a capsule and made of gelatin or other material having similar physical characteristics. Such a filter insertion unit 44 may be arranged such that when inserted into the housing 25, it assumes the same shape as the housing 25. A filter insertion unit 44 in the form of a capsule may be frangible such that inserting the filter insertion unit 44 and squeezing the filter 20 will cause the filter insertion unit 44 to burst and release its contents.

[0081] The filter insertion unit 30 described above with reference to Figures 1 to 20 is intended to be inserted into a storage section 25 having a circular cross section as seen from the end face as shown in Figure 21, but storage sections of various cross-sectional shapes may be used.

[0082] Figure 22 shows an end view of the mouth end 11 of the filter 20 of the smoking article 10. The profile of the housing 25 is irregular in end view and the insertion unit 30 has a complementary shape in end view to provide a secure fit. An irregular cross-sectional shape in end view as shown in Figure 22 is advantageous as it increases the contact area between the filter insertion unit 30 and the filter 20.

[0083] 23 shows a filter 20 and filter insertion unit 30 according to a further embodiment. In this embodiment, the filter insertion unit 30 is provided with a cusp 50. The cusp 50 may be provided with one or more barbs 55. When the filter insertion unit 30 is inserted into the recess 25 of the filter 20, the cusp 50 and the barbs 55 are at least partially embedded within the cylindrical filtering region 21 of the filter 20 and help retain the filter insertion unit 30 to the filter 20.

[0084] In a further embodiment, shown in Figure 24, the filter insertion unit 30 includes external threads 60 disposed about an exterior surface of the filter insertion unit 30. The housing 25 of the filter 20 may include internal threads 61 disposed along an interior surface of the housing 25. During insertion, the filter insertion unit 30 is twisted to engage the external threads 60 and the internal threads 61, thereby retaining the filter insertion unit 30 within the housing 25 of the filter 20.

[0085] The threads 60, 61 may be provided by a molded or extruded filler material or plastic, or may be stamped into the inner surface of the housing 25 and / or the outer surface of the filter insertion unit 30, for example if the housing is formed of a stiff paper or cardboard-like material that can be stamped, or if the plug wrap surrounding the filter insertion unit 30 is stampable. In some embodiments, the threads 60, 61 may be provided on one of the filter insertion unit 30 or the housing 25, but not both, to provide a flow path between the threads for smoke to pass along in use.

[0086] In a further embodiment, the filter insertion unit 30 may be inserted into the housing 25 through an opening disposed along the side of the filter 20, as shown in FIG. 25A. One such embodiment of the filter 20 is shown in FIG. 25B. The downstream cylindrical filtration region 62, the intermediate tubular filtration region 63, and the upstream cylindrical filtration region 64 are arranged end-to-end as shown in FIG. 25B. The intermediate tubular filtration region 63 has a cutout portion through which the filter insertion unit 30 can be inserted. The plug wrapper, tipping paper, or any other suitable packaging material that can be used to hold the downstream cylindrical filtration region 62, the intermediate tubular filtration region 63, and the upstream cylindrical filtration region 64 in place may also have a cutout portion to allow the filter insertion unit 30 to be inserted into the housing 25. In use, the downstream cylindrical filtration region 62 holds the filter insertion unit 30 in place within the filter 20.

[0087] FIG. 26 shows an embodiment in which the filter insertion unit 30 is inserted into a sleeve 70. The sleeve 70 comprises a cylindrical region 71 of filter material, such as cellulose acetate. The cylindrical region 71 has a recess 72 which extends from the upstream end of the cylindrical region 71 over part of the length of the cylindrical region 71. The sleeve 70 further comprises a sleeve portion 73 which may be of stiff cardboard outer material and be longer than the cylindrical region 71 so that a hollow region defined by the sleeve portion 73 may be inserted into the smoking article. In use, the filter insertion unit 30 may be inserted into the recess 72 before placing the sleeve over the smoking article such that the sleeve portion 73 covers the mouth end of the smoking article. The sleeve 70 thus holds the filter insertion unit 30 in place during use.

[0088] Figure 27 shows an embodiment in which the insertable filter unit is a spike 75 that can be inserted into a conventional smoking article filter. The spike 75 may be formed from materials including plastic, wood, or any other suitable material. The spike 75 may be coated with additives such as flavourants or adsorbents to impart organoleptic properties to the smoke passing through the filter.

[0089] 28A, 28B and 28C are end views of filter 20 showing mouth end 11 with filter insertion unit 30 inserted according to respective exemplary embodiments, in which filter insertion unit 30 and filter 20 housing 25 have various cross-sectional shapes when viewed from the rear.

[0090] FIG. 28A shows a case inserted into a receiving section 25 having a triangular cross section. FIG. 28B shows a filter insertion unit 30 having a circular cross section inserted into a storage section 25 having a square cross section. FIG. 28C shows a filter insertion unit 30 having a square cross section inserted into a storage section 25 having a circular cross section. As can be seen from FIGS. 28A to 28C, the flow paths 76 can be formed using filter insertion units 30 and storage sections 25 of various shapes. The number and shape of such flow paths 76 can be changed by changing the combination of the shapes of the filter insertion unit 30 and the storage section 25, as can be seen from a comparison of FIGS. 28A to 28C. Furthermore, when the shapes are changed in this way, the filter 20 and the filter insertion unit 30 are pressed into each other, which also helps to hold the inserted filter insertion unit 30. It should be noted that combinations of shapes of the filter insertion unit 30 and the storage section 25 other than those shown in FIGS. 28A to 28C may be used.

[0091] A further embodiment of the filter insertion unit 30 is shown in FIG. 29A. The filter insertion unit 30 according to this embodiment includes a block 77 of filter material, such as cellulose acetate, with a number of grooves 78 in the block 77, the grooves 78 extending along at least a portion of the length of the peripheral region of the filter insertion unit 30. The filter insertion unit 30 is wrapped with a plug wrapper or other suitable wrapping material. The wrapping material has a number of holes to allow a certain amount of smoke to pass through. The holes may, for example, coincide with the grooves 78. The filter insertion unit 30 may include a second wrapping material 79 that does not follow the contour of the peripheral grooves 78, thereby defining a number of flow paths between the second wrapping material and the block of filter material, as shown in FIG. 29B. In use, when the filter insertion unit 30 of FIG. 29A is inserted into the housing 25, smoke may pass through the number of holes in the plug wrapper of the filter insertion unit 30 to provide a unique smoking experience. FIG. 29C illustrates a filter insertion unit 30 according to an embodiment in which the second packaging material 79 is not used.

[0092] Alternatively to the embodiment shown in Figures 29A-29C, the groove may be provided as a spiral circumferential groove to provide a modified passage for the smoke supply.

[0093] 30 shows an embodiment in which the filter insertion unit 30 comprises a cylindrical portion 80 and a tubular portion 81. The cylindrical portion 80 may be made of a filter material such as cellulose acetate. The tubular portion 81 may be made of cardboard, although other materials may be used. The outer surface of the cylindrical portion 80 and the inner and outer surfaces of the tubular portion 81 may be provided with a number of barbs to hold the cylindrical portion 80 within the tubular portion 81, and to hold the tubular portion 81 within the housing 25 of the filter 20.

[0094] Another embodiment is shown in Figure 31A. The filter insertion unit 82 comprises a narrow insertion portion 83 arranged to be inserted into the housing 25, and a wide non-inserted portion 84. The two portions 83, 84 may be made of any of the materials described above.

[0095] Figure 31B shows a filter insertion unit 85 that is similar to filter insertion unit 82 shown in Figure 31B, except that filter insertion unit 85 further includes a sleeve 86 disposed over the outer surface of filter 20. Sleeve 86 may be formed from any suitable material, such as paper or cardboard.

[0096] A further embodiment of a filter 85 is shown in Figure 32. The filter 90 comprises two recesses 25. Each recess 25 may have a filter insertion unit 30 inserted therein. In alternative embodiments, more than two recesses may be provided.

[0097] As used herein, "smoking article" includes tobacco, tobacco derivatives, expanded tobacco, reconstituted tobacco or tobacco substitutes, and smoking products such as cigarettes, cigars, and slim cigars, whether or not based on non-combustion heating products.

[0098] From the above detailed description, one skilled in the art will appreciate that several exemplary embodiments of the present invention provide the following:

[0099] 1. An insertable filter unit for a smoking article filter, the filter unit comprising a retaining means for retaining the insertable filter unit within the smoking article filter.

[0100] The retaining means comprises a plurality of hook-like projections disposed about a major surface of the insertable filter unit.

[0101] The retaining means comprises a male locking member arranged to engage a female locking member.

[0102] The retaining means comprises a plurality of raised points.

[0103] The retaining means may include a pleated region.

[0104] The insertable filter unit shall be made of a material that can be compressed by hand.

[0105] The retaining means may include an adhesive arranged to adhere the insertable filter unit to the filter.

[0106] The adhesive is applied to a major surface of the insert filter unit.

[0107] The adhesive is applied in at least one strip extending along a major surface of the insertable filter unit.

[0108] Adhesive containing capsules.

[0109] The insertable filter unit has a cross-sectional shape, when viewed from an end, configured to increase the surface area of ​​the insertable filter unit.

[0110] The insert filter unit must contain a smoke modifying substance.

[0111] The smoke modifying material includes a sorbent material.

[0112] Smoke modifying substances include flavorants.

[0113] Flavoring agents include at least one of the following: menthol, lemon, tangerine, lime, coffee, and / or tea.

[0114] Smoke modifying materials contain colorants.

[0115] The smoke denaturing material contains water.

[0116] The smoke modifying substance is contained in a frangible capsule contained within an insertable filter unit.

[0117] The smoke modifying material is in the form of strands.

[0118] The smoke modifying substance must be in granular form.

[0119] An insert filter unit for a smoking article filter, the insert filter unit comprising a smoke modifying substance.

[0120] The smoke modifying substance is contained in a frangible capsule contained within an insertable filter unit.

[0121] The fragile capsule contains water.

[0122] The smoke modifying substance must be in granular or strand form.

[0123] The smoke modifying material must contain a carbon sorbent.

[0124] Smoke modifying materials contain colorants.

[0125] Smoke modifying substances include flavorants.

[0126] Smoke modifying substances must contain at least one of the following: menthol, lemon, tangerine, lime, coffee, and / or tea.

[0127] The smoke denaturing material contains water.

[0128] A smoking article filter comprising a storage compartment for storing a insertable filter unit.

[0129] The housing is at least partially surrounded by a wall formed of a filter material.

[0130] The storage compartment is at least partially surrounded by a wall formed of paper.

[0131] The compartment is at least partially surrounded by a cardboard tube.

[0132] A smoking article filter comprising a housing having a filter unit retaining means disposed therein.

[0133] A smoking article filter comprising a female receiving member arranged to receive a male locking member of a insertable filter unit.

[0134] The retaining means may comprise a removable lid articulated about a point located at the mouth end of the smoking article filter.

[0135] The smoking article filter housing has a screw thread disposed therein.

[0136] The retaining means includes a gate arranged to open only inwardly.

[0137] The retaining means may comprise an adhesive applied to a major surface of the recess.

[0138] A set of parts that make up an insertable filter unit and a smoking article filter.

[0139] A smoking article having a insertable filter unit that is inserted into a smoking article filter housing.

[0140] Embodiments of the present invention are configured to comply with applicable statutes and / or regulations, including, by way of example and not limitation, regulations relating to flavours, additives, emissions, ingredients and / or the like. For example, the present invention may be configured such that a smoking article embodying the present invention complies with applicable regulations both before and after use / operation by a user.

[0141] In order to address various problems and promote the present technology, the entire disclosure presents various embodiments by way of example, in which the claimed invention is practiced to provide an improved smoking article filter and insertable filter unit. The advantages and features of the present disclosure are merely representative examples of embodiments, and are not all-inclusive and / or exclusive. They are presented merely to aid in the understanding and teaching of the claimed features. It is to be understood that the advantages, embodiments, examples, features, features, structures, and / or other aspects of the present disclosure are not intended to limit the present disclosure or its equivalents as defined in the claims, and other embodiments may be utilized and modified without departing from the scope and / or concept of the present disclosure. Various embodiments may suitably comprise, consist of, or consist essentially of various combinations of the disclosed elements, components, features, parts, steps, means, etc. Furthermore, the present disclosure includes other inventions that are not currently claimed but may be claimed in the future. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0142] [Patent Document 1] US Patent Publication No. 2005 / 126395

Claims

1. 1. An insertable filter unit for a smoking article filter, the filter unit comprising a retention means for retaining the insertable filter unit within the smoking article filter.

2. 2. The insertable filter unit of claim 1, wherein the retaining means comprises a mechanical retaining means.

3. 3. The insertable filter unit according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that it is provided with a barb.

4. 3. The insertable filter unit according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that it is provided with a screw thread.

5. 3. The insertable filter unit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the insertable filter unit is an insertable peg-like member.

6. 10. The insert filter unit of claim 1, formed from a manually compressible material.

7. 2. The insert filter unit of claim 1, wherein the retaining means comprises an adhesive.

8. 8. A filter unit according to any preceding claim, characterized in that, when viewed from an end, it has a cross-sectional shape arranged to increase the surface area of ​​the filter unit.

9. 1. An insert filter unit for a smoking article filter, the insert filter unit comprising a smoke modifying substance.

10. 10. The insert filter unit of claim 9, wherein the smoke modifying substance is contained in a frangible capsule contained within the insert filter unit.

11. 11. The insertable filter unit of claim 10, wherein the frangible capsule contains water.

12. 10. The insert filter unit of claim 9, wherein the smoke modifying material is in granular or thread form.

13. 13. The insert filter unit of any one of claims 9 to 12, wherein the smoke modifying material comprises a carbon adsorbent.

14. 14. The insert filter unit of claim 13, wherein the carbon adsorbent has a monolithic construction.

15. 15. A insert filter unit according to any one of claims 9 to 14, characterized in that it comprises a colouring agent.

16. 16. The insert filter unit according to any one of claims 9 to 15, wherein the smoke modifying substances include flavourants.

17. 17. The insertable filter unit of claim 16, wherein the flavoring includes at least one of menthol, lemon, tangerine, lime, coffee, and / or tea.

18. 18. The insert filter unit according to any one of claims 9 to 17, wherein the smoke modifying substance comprises water.

19. A smoking article filter comprising a recess for receiving a insertable filter unit.

20. 20. A smoking article filter according to claim 19, wherein the recess is at least partially surrounded by a wall formed from filter material.

21. 20. A smoking article filter according to claim 19, wherein the cavity is at least partially surrounded by a wall formed from paper.

22. 20. A smoking article filter according to claim 19, wherein the housing is at least partially surrounded by a cardboard tube.

23. 23. A smoking article filter according to any one of claims 19 to 22, wherein the filter is provided with a connection portion for connecting the filter to a smoking article.

24. A smoking article filter according to claim 23, wherein the connection portion comprises a sleeve.

25. A smoking article filter comprising a housing having a filter unit retaining means disposed therein.

26. 26. A smoking article filter according to claim 25, wherein the filter unit retention means comprises mechanical retention means.

27. 27. A smoking article filter according to claim 25 or 26, wherein the retention means comprises a mouthpiece end cap.

28. 27. A smoking article filter according to claim 25 or 26, wherein the recess has a screw thread disposed therein.

29. 26. A smoking article filter according to claim 25, wherein the retaining means comprises an adhesive applied to a major surface of the recess.

30. 30. A kit of parts comprising an insertable filter unit according to any one of claims 1 to 18 and a smoking article filter according to any one of claims 19 to 29.

31. 30. A smoking article comprising a smoking article filter according to any one of claims 19 to 29.

32. 32. A smoking article according to claim 31, comprising an insertable filter unit according to any one of claims 1 to 18 inserted in the recess of the smoking article filter.

33. 1. An insertable filter unit for a smoking article filter, comprising a retention mechanism for retaining the unit within the filter.

34. A smoking article filter comprising a recess including a retention mechanism for retaining the unit within the filter.

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