Aerosol-generating article including a filter with a hollow inner tube
Patent Information
- Application Number
- JP2024542356
- Authority / Receiving Office
- JP · JP
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2022-01-28
- Filing Date
- 2023-01-27
- Publication Date
- 2025-07-18
AI Technical Summary
The existing aerosol generation articles for non-combustion heating devices have problems with high suction resistance, poor taste and poor biodegradability, especially when using cellulose acetate filters.
Using a filter design containing a hollow inner tube, the hollow inner tube is inserted into the upstream end filter section and opened at its open end, combining high-weight filter paper or nonwoven material to create a low pressure drop and an enhanced taste experience while using the same filter paper material to make upstream and downstream filter sections to simplify manufacturing.
It achieves low suction resistance, improved taste experience and enhanced biodegradability, while maintaining the strength and visual consistency of the filter, improving the user experience.
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Abstract
Description
[Technical field]
[0001] The present invention relates to an aerosol-generating article that includes a filter with a hollow inner tube.
[0002] In particular, aerosol-generating articles according to the invention are adapted to operate with aerosol-generating devices, also known as heated non-combustion or HNB devices, such that the aerosol-generating device is adapted to heat, rather than combust, an aerosol-generating substrate contained in the article. [Background technology]
[0003] The popularity and use of risk reduction or risk modification devices (also known as vaporizers or aerosol generating devices) has grown rapidly in recent years as aids to assist habitual smokers wishing to quit smoking traditional tobacco products such as cigarettes, cigars, cigarillos, and rolling tobacco. A variety of devices and systems are available that heat or warm a vaporizable material, as opposed to burning tobacco in traditional tobacco products.
[0004] A commonly available risk reduction or risk modification device is a heat-not-burn device, also known as a substrate heated aerosol generating device or HNB device. This type of device generates an aerosol or vapor by heating an aerosol-generating substrate, typically comprising moist tobacco or other suitable vaporizable material, to a temperature that is typically lower than the combustion temperature of tobacco, but sufficient to generate vapor and / or release volatile substances that condense to form an aerosol. By heating, rather than burning or combusting, the aerosol-generating substrate, an aerosol is released that contains the ingredients desired by the user, but does not contain the toxic and carcinogenic by-products of combustion and burning. Furthermore, the aerosol generated by heating tobacco or other vaporizable material typically does not contain the burnt or bitter taste resulting from combustion and burning, which can be unpleasant to the user. Thus, the substrate does not require sugars and other additives that are typically added to such materials to make the smoke and / or vapor more palatable to the user.
[0005] Generally, the aerosol-generating article used with the HNB device includes an aerosol-generating substrate and a filter. During use of the HNB device, the filter may contact the user's mouth and / or lips. Thus, when the user inhales, the aerosol generated by the aerosol-generating substrate passes through the filter, where the aerosol is cooled and the pressure and taste intensity of the aerosol are reduced. Generally, for conventional cigarettes, the filter can be made of cellulose acetate fibers. However, such aerosol-generating articles with cellulose acetate filters provide high resistance to puffing due to the relatively densely packed fiber tows. Additionally, aerosol-generating articles with cellulose acetate filters have insufficient flavor intensity. The reduced resistance of the cellulose acetate filter may cause manufacturability problems. Therefore, there is a need for an aerosol-generating article for an HNB device that provides low draw resistance, more sensory effects, good visual acceptability, and improved biodegradability. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]
[0006] One object of the present invention is to provide an aerosol-generating article that includes a filter designed for use with an HNB device that provides a better user experience. [Means for solving the problem]
[0007] To this end, the present invention provides an aerosol-generating article comprising a filter, the filter extends along a filter axis between an upstream end and a mouth end, the upstream end configured to be in fluid communication with a downstream end of the aerosol-generating substrate; The filter is - a mouth end filter portion; an upstream end filter portion adjacent to the upstream end filter portion; the mouth end filter portion and the upstream end filter portion include filter paper or a nonwoven sheet; a hollow inner tube inserted into the upstream filter section so as to extend therethrough and opening at the mouth filter section of the filter; The present invention relates to an aerosol-generating article comprising:
[0008] In the aerosol-generating article according to the present invention, the use of filter paper or nonwoven sheet may reduce pressure loss and may result in a greater reduction in taste intensity. Additionally, by providing a hollow inner tube in the upstream end filter portion, the hollow inner tube is not visible to the user, and therefore does not disturb users who are accustomed to consuming conventional aerosol-generating articles.
[0009] According to some embodiments of the aerosol-generating article, the upstream filter portion comprises plug wrap having a basis weight greater than 45 gsm, preferably between 45 gsm and 120 gsm, more preferably between 80 gsm and 100 gsm.
[0010] Therefore, the basis weight of the proposed plug wrap is greater than that of conventional plug wraps. The proposed plug wrap maintains the robustness of the filter despite its low density.
[0011] According to some embodiments of the aerosol-generating article according to the invention, the mouth end filter portion comprises a gathered sheet of paper providing a low pressure drop filter; Low pressure drop filter paper preferably has a pressure drop of less than 5 mmH2O per mm of length, more preferably less than 3 mmH2O per mm of length.
[0012] The upstream filter portion can further reduce pressure loss.
[0013] According to some embodiments of the filter according to the invention, the upstream filter section comprises a filter paper or nonwoven sheet surrounding a hollow inner tube; Preferably, the density of the filter paper in the upstream end filter portion is 0.0200 mg / mm 3 ~0.180mg / mm 3 , advantageously 0.025 mg / mm 3 ~0.135mg / mm 3 It is.
[0014] The upstream filter portion can further improve the user experience by providing a filter with an in-mouth consistency similar to that of a conventional acetate filter and improved visual appearance.
[0015] According to some embodiments of an aerosol-generating article according to the invention, the mouth end filter portion and the upstream end filter portion form a single filter segment comprising a filter paper or nonwoven sheet encased by a common filter wrapper.
[0016] This feature essentially holds both parts of the filter together. Additionally, the common filter wrapper can be a plug wrap. Furthermore, this embodiment can be particularly advantageous in filter manufacturing, since the same base material of filter paper can be used to form both filter parts. Thus, by compressing the filter paper in the upstream filter part, the hollow inner tube can be simply inserted into this part. Thus, the mouth end filter part and the upstream end filter part can exhibit different cross-sectional densities.
[0017] For example, to manufacture such a filter forming a single filter segment, a continuous tube of filter paper can be manufactured and a plurality of hollow inner tubes spaced apart from one another can be inserted into the continuous tube, which can then be cut midway between each hollow inner tube and between each pair of hollow inner tubes.
[0018] According to some embodiments of the aerosol-generating article according to the invention, the upstream end filter portion and the mouth end filter portion form separate filter segments individually wrapped by respective filter wrappers; The mouth end filter section and the upstream end filter section are assembled together by a common outer wrapper.
[0019] This feature allows the upstream and mouth end filter sections to be manufactured separately and then assembled together, for example, using a common outer wrapper which may be formed by a plug wrap.
[0020] According to some embodiments of an aerosol-generating article according to the invention, the mouth end filter portion and the upstream end filter portion are adjacent and the hollow inner tube opens into the upstream end of the upstream end filter portion.
[0021] This feature causes the hollow inner tube to extend only through the upstream end filter portion, thus further reducing pressure loss during use of the aerosol-generating article as the aerosol passes through the hollow inner tube before reaching the mouth end filter portion directly, rather than migrating into a higher pressure loss material.
[0022] According to some embodiments, the aerosol-generating article according to the invention comprises at least one of the following features, taken alone or in combination: - the hollow inner tube is made of paper, and The hollow inner tube has a circular, triangular or square cross section.
[0023] Each of these features simplifies the manufacture of filters, as the creation of round, triangular, or square paper tubes can be accomplished with well-developed tooling and manufacturing methods, for example, the tubes can be made by stacking layers together, e.g., by spiral winding on a mandrel.
[0024] According to some embodiments, the aerosol-generating article according to the invention comprises at least one of the following features, taken alone or in combination: the aerosol-generating article further comprises at least one flavor capsule; The flavor capsule is inserted into the mouth end filter portion; and The upstream filter portion and / or the mouth filter portion contain taste improving or performance enhancing additives.
[0025] Each of these features contributes to improving the user experience by enhancing the taste of the aerosol generated by the aerosol generating article. The diameter of the flavor capsule may be 2.5-4.5 mm. Additionally, the flavor capsule may include an outer shell that contains a flavorant releasable during vaping. The flavorant may be, for example, a liquid. The outer shell may be soluble and melt upon interaction with the aerosol and / or upon heating.
[0026] According to another aspect of the invention, an aerosol-generating article includes an aerosol-generating substrate including a downstream end.
[0027] According to some embodiments, the aerosol-generating article includes a cooling or spacing element disposed between the aerosol-generating substrate and the filter, preferably adjacent the downstream end.
[0028] The cooling or spacing element can further improve the user experience by cooling the aerosol before it reaches the user's mouth and / or lips. The cooling or spacing element can be formed by a tube extending between the filter and the aerosol-generating substrate. The tube can be hollow or can include additional flow guides, for example to mix the flow emerging from the aerosol-generating substrate and / or to enhance the cooling effect.
[0029] According to some embodiments, the density of the filter paper in the upstream filter section is 0.0200 mg / mm 3 ~0.170mg / mm 3 , advantageously 0.0250 mg / mm 3 ~0.130mg / mm 3 It is.
[0030] In another aspect, the present invention provides an aerosol-generating article comprising a filter, the filter extends along a filter axis between an upstream end and a mouth end, the upstream end configured to be in fluid communication with a downstream end of the aerosol-generating substrate; The filter is - a mouth end filter portion; an upstream end filter portion adjacent the mouth end filter portion, the upstream end filter portion including a filter paper or nonwoven sheet; a hollow inner tube inserted into the mouth end filter section so as to extend therethrough and opening at the mouth end of the filter; The present invention relates to an aerosol-generating article comprising:
[0031] In the aerosol-generating article according to the present invention, the use of filter paper or nonwoven sheet may reduce pressure loss and may increase the reduction in taste intensity. Additionally, the provision of a hollow inner tube in the mouth-end filter portion provides a better mouth-end appearance to the user compared to a simple paper filter. Thus, the user experience while using the aerosol-generating article may be improved.
[0032] According to some embodiments of the aerosol-generating article, the upstream filter portion comprises plug wrap having a basis weight greater than 45 gsm, preferably between 45 gsm and 120 gsm, more preferably between 80 gsm and 100 gsm.
[0033] Therefore, the basis weight of the proposed plug wrap is greater than that of conventional plug wraps. The proposed plug wrap maintains the robustness of the filter despite its low density.
[0034] According to some embodiments of the aerosol-generating article according to the invention, the upstream filter portion comprises a gathered sheet of paper providing a low pressure drop filter; Low pressure drop filter paper preferably has a pressure drop of less than 5 mmH2O per mm of length, more preferably less than 3 mmH2O per mm of length.
[0035] The upstream filter portion can further reduce pressure loss.
[0036] According to some embodiments of a filter according to the invention, the mouth end filter portion comprises a filter paper or nonwoven sheet surrounding a hollow inner tube; Preferably, the density of the filter paper in the mouth end filter portion is 0.0200 mg / mm 3 ~0.180mg / mm 3 and advantageously 0.025 mg / mm 3 ~0.135mg / mm 3 It is.
[0037] The mouth end filter portion can further improve the user experience by providing a filter with an in-mouth consistency similar to that of traditional acetate filters and improved visual appearance.
[0038] According to some embodiments of an aerosol-generating article according to the invention, the mouth end filter portion and the upstream end filter portion form a single filter segment comprising a filter paper or nonwoven sheet encased by a common filter wrapper.
[0039] This feature essentially holds both parts of the filter together. Additionally, the common filter wrapper can be a plug wrap. Furthermore, this embodiment can be particularly advantageous in filter manufacturing, since the same base material of filter paper can be used to form both filter parts. Thus, by compressing the filter paper in the mouth end filter part, the hollow inner tube can be simply inserted into this part. Thus, the mouth end filter part and the upstream end filter part can exhibit different cross-sectional densities.
[0040] For example, to manufacture such a filter forming a single filter segment, a continuous tube of filter paper can be manufactured and a plurality of hollow inner tubes spaced apart from one another can be inserted into the continuous tube, which can then be cut midway between each hollow inner tube and between each pair of hollow inner tubes.
[0041] According to some embodiments of the aerosol-generating article according to the invention, the upstream end filter portion and the mouth end filter portion form separate filter segments individually wrapped by respective filter wrappers; The mouth end filter section and the upstream end filter section are assembled together by a common outer wrapper.
[0042] This feature allows the upstream and mouth end filter sections to be manufactured separately and then assembled together, for example, using a common outer wrapper which may be formed by a plug wrap.
[0043] According to some embodiments of an aerosol-generating article according to the invention, the mouth end filter portion and the upstream end filter portion are adjacent and the hollow inner tube opens into the upstream end filter portion.
[0044] This feature allows the hollow inner tube to extend only through the mouth end filter portion, thus further reducing pressure loss during use of the aerosol-generating article as aerosol passes directly from the upstream portion into the hollow inner tube rather than migrating into a material with higher pressure loss.
[0045] According to some embodiments, the aerosol-generating article according to the invention comprises at least one of the following features, taken alone or in combination: - the hollow inner tube is made of paper, and The hollow inner tube has a circular, triangular or square cross section.
[0046] Each of these features simplifies the manufacture of filters, since the creation of round, triangular, or square paper tubes can be performed using well-developed tools and manufacturing methods. For example, the tubes can be made by stacking layers, e.g., spirally winding using a mandrel. Additionally, the use of a circular hollow inner tube is more familiar to users.
[0047] According to some embodiments, the aerosol-generating article according to the invention comprises at least one of the following features, taken alone or in combination: the aerosol-generating article further comprises at least one flavor capsule; The flavor capsule is inserted into the upstream end filter section, and The upstream filter portion and / or the mouth filter portion contain taste improving or performance enhancing additives.
[0048] Each of these features contributes to improving the user experience by enhancing the taste of the aerosol generated by the aerosol generating article. The diameter of the flavor capsule may be 2.5-4.5 mm. Additionally, the flavor capsule may include an outer shell that contains a flavorant releasable during vaping. The flavorant may be, for example, a liquid. The outer shell may be soluble and melt upon interaction with the aerosol and / or upon heating.
[0049] According to another aspect of the invention, an aerosol-generating article includes an aerosol-generating substrate including a downstream end.
[0050] According to some embodiments, the aerosol-generating article includes a cooling or spacing element disposed between the aerosol-generating substrate and the filter, preferably adjacent the downstream end.
[0051] The cooling or spacing element can further improve the user experience by cooling the aerosol before it reaches the user's mouth and / or lips. The cooling or spacing element can be formed by a tube extending between the filter and the aerosol-generating substrate. The tube can be hollow or can include additional flow guides, for example to mix the flow emerging from the aerosol-generating substrate and / or to enhance the cooling effect.
[0052] According to some embodiments, the density of the filter paper in the upstream filter section is 0.0200 mg / mm 3 ~0.170mg / mm 3 , advantageously 0.0250 mg / mm3 to 0.130 mg / mm 3 It is.
[0053] The present invention also provides an aerosol-generating article comprising a filter, the article comprising: the filter extends along a filter axis between an upstream end and a mouth end, the upstream end configured to be in fluid communication with a downstream end of the aerosol-generating substrate; The filter is - an upstream end filter portion; a mouth end filter portion adjacent the upstream end filter portion, the mouth end filter portion including a filter paper or nonwoven sheet; a hollow inner tube inserted into the upstream end filter section so as to extend through said section and opening at the upstream end of the filter; The present invention relates to an aerosol-generating article comprising:
[0054] In the aerosol-generating article according to the present invention, the use of filter paper may reduce pressure loss and may increase the reduction in taste intensity. Additionally, the provision of a hollow inner tube in the upstream end filter section provides a better mouth-end appearance to the user compared to a simple paper filter. Thus, the user experience while using the aerosol-generating article can be improved.
[0055] According to some embodiments, the mouth end filter portion comprises a plug wrap having a basis weight greater than 45 gsm, preferably between 45 gsm and 120 gsm, more preferably between 80 gsm and 100 gsm.
[0056] Therefore, the basis weight of the proposed plug wrap is greater than that of conventional plug wraps. The proposed plug wrap maintains the robustness of the filter despite its low density.
[0057] According to some embodiments of the aerosol-generating article according to the invention, the mouth end filter portion comprises a gathered sheet of paper providing a low pressure drop filter; Low pressure drop filter paper preferably has a pressure drop of less than 5 mmH2O per mm of length, more preferably less than 3 mmH2O per mm of length.
[0058] The mouth end filter section may further reduce pressure loss.
[0059] According to some embodiments, the upstream filter portion includes a filter paper surrounding a hollow inner tube; Preferably, the density of the filter paper in the upstream end filter portion is 0.0200 mg / mm 3 ~0.180mg / mm 3 , advantageously 0.025 mg / mm 3 ~0.135mg / mm 3 It is.
[0060] The upstream filter portion can further improve the user experience by providing the filter with a filter consistency in the user's finger similar to that of a conventional acetate filter and an improved visual appearance.
[0061] According to some embodiments of an aerosol-generating article according to the invention, the mouth end filter portion and the upstream end filter portion form a single filter segment comprising a filter paper or nonwoven sheet encased by a common filter wrapper.
[0062] This feature essentially holds both parts of the filter together. Additionally, the common filter wrapper can be a plug wrap. Furthermore, this embodiment can be particularly advantageous in filter manufacturing, since the same base material of filter paper can be used to form both filter parts. Thus, by compressing the filter paper in the upstream filter part, the hollow inner tube can be simply inserted into this part. Thus, the mouth end filter part and the upstream end filter part can exhibit different cross-sectional densities.
[0063] For example, to manufacture such a filter forming a single filter segment, a continuous tube of filter paper can be manufactured and a plurality of hollow inner tubes spaced apart from one another can be inserted into the continuous tube, which can then be cut midway between each hollow inner tube and between each pair of hollow inner tubes.
[0064] According to some embodiments of the aerosol-generating article according to the invention, the upstream end filter portion and the mouth end filter portion form separate filter segments individually wrapped by respective filter wrappers; The mouth end filter section and the upstream end filter section are assembled together by a common outer wrapper.
[0065] This feature allows the upstream and mouth end filter sections to be manufactured separately and then assembled together, for example, using a common outer wrapper which may be formed by a plug wrap.
[0066] According to some embodiments of an aerosol-generating article according to the invention, the mouth end filter portion and the upstream end filter portion are adjacent and the hollow inner tube opens into the mouth end filter portion.
[0067] This feature causes the hollow inner tube to extend only through the upstream filter section, thus further reducing pressure loss during use of the aerosol-generating article as the aerosol passes directly through the hollow inner tube of the upstream filter section and then to the mouth filter section rather than migrating into a material with higher pressure loss.
[0068] According to some embodiments, the aerosol-generating article according to the invention comprises at least one of the following features, taken alone or in combination: - the hollow inner tube is made of paper, and The hollow inner tube has a circular, triangular or square cross section.
[0069] Each of these features simplifies the manufacture of filters, since the creation of round, triangular, or square paper tubes can be performed using well-developed tools and manufacturing methods. For example, the tubes can be made by stacking layers, e.g., spirally winding using a mandrel. Additionally, the use of a circular hollow inner tube is more familiar to users.
[0070] According to some embodiments, the aerosol-generating article according to the invention comprises at least one of the following features, taken alone or in combination: the aerosol-generating article further comprises at least one flavor capsule; The flavor capsule is inserted into the mouth end filter portion; and The upstream filter portion and / or the mouth filter portion contain taste improving or performance enhancing additives.
[0071] Each of these features contributes to improving the user experience by enhancing the taste of the aerosol generated by the aerosol generating article. The diameter of the flavor capsule may be 2.5-4.5 mm. Additionally, the flavor capsule may include an outer shell that contains a flavorant releasable during vaping. The flavorant may be, for example, a liquid. The outer shell may be soluble and melt upon interaction with the aerosol and / or upon heating.
[0072] According to some embodiments, an aerosol-generating article comprises an aerosol-generating substrate comprising a downstream end.
[0073] According to some embodiments, the aerosol-generating article includes a cooling or spacing element disposed between the aerosol-generating substrate and the filter, preferably adjacent the downstream end.
[0074] The cooling or spacing element can further improve the user experience by cooling the aerosol before it reaches the user's mouth and / or lips. The cooling or spacing element can be formed by a tube extending between the filter and the aerosol-generating substrate. The tube can be hollow or can include additional flow guides, for example to mix the flow emerging from the aerosol-generating substrate and / or to enhance the cooling effect.
[0075] According to some embodiments, the density of the filter paper in the mouth end filter section is 0.0200 mg / mm 3 ~0.170mg / mm 3 , advantageously 0.0250 mg / mm 3 ~0.130mg / mm 3 It is.
[0076] The invention and its advantages will be better understood on reading the following description, given by way of non-limiting example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: [Brief description of the drawings]
[0077] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram of an aerosol-generating assembly including an aerosol-generating article according to the present invention. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the aerosol-generating article of FIG. 1, where the aerosol-generating article includes a filter according to the present invention. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a schematic exploded view of the filter of FIG. 2, the filter being in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] FIG. 3 is a schematic exploded view of the filter of FIG. 2, the filter being in accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 5] FIG. 3 is a schematic exploded view of the filter of FIG. 2, the filter being in accordance with a third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] FIG. 3 is a schematic exploded view of the filter of FIG. 2, the filter being in accordance with a fourth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] FIG. 3 is a schematic exploded view of the filter of FIG. 2, the filter being in accordance with a fifth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] FIG. 3 is a schematic exploded view of the filter of FIG. 2, the filter being in accordance with a sixth embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0078] Before the present invention is described, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited to the details of construction set forth in the following description. It will be apparent to one skilled in the art having the benefit of this disclosure that the invention is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or carried out in various ways.
[0079] The expression "substantially equal to" is hereinafter understood as equal to ±10%, preferably ±5%.
[0080] As used herein, the term "aerosol generating device" or "device" may include a vaping device for delivering an aerosol from an aerosol generating article, including, for example, tobacco, received within the device. The device may be portable. "Portable" may refer to a device that is held and used by a user. The device may be adapted to generate a variable amount of aerosol, for example, by activating a heater system for a variable period of time using a trigger (as opposed to a fixed amount of aerosol). The trigger may be user-activated, such as a vaping button and / or an inhalation sensor. The inhalation sensor may be sensitive to inhalation strength and duration, allowing for the provision of a variable amount of vapor (to mimic the smoking effect of a conventional combustible smoking article, such as a cigarette, cigar, or pipe).
[0081] As used herein, the term "control unit" refers to a component of the aerosol generating device that may control the operation of the heating system. The control unit may include a temperature regulation control for manipulating and subsequently maintaining the temperature of the heating system.
[0082] As used herein, the term "aerosol-generating substrate" is used to designate any material capable of forming an aerosol. The aerosol is generally obtained by increasing the temperature of the aerosol-generating substrate, such as a temperature of less than 400°C, preferably up to 350°C. The aerosol-generating substrate may, for example, comprise or consist of an aerosol-generating solid, which may be in the form of a rod, including processed tobacco material, crimped sheets or oriented strips of reconstituted tobacco (RTB), or any combination thereof. The aerosol-generating substrate may contain one or more of nicotine, caffeine, or other active ingredients.
[0083] As used herein, the term "aerosol" may include a suspension of precursors as solid particles, liquid droplets, or one or more of a gas. The suspension may be in a gaseous state, including air. The aerosol may be formed by an aerosol-generating substance and may include one or more components of the aerosol-generating substance.
[0084] As used herein, the term "vaping session" may refer to the period of use of an aerosol generating device starting from the activation of a trigger as defined above until the moment the aerosol generating device is disabled.
[0085] As shown in FIG. 1, the aerosol generating assembly 10 includes an aerosol generating device 15 and an aerosol generating article 20 .
[0086] The aerosol generating device 15 extends along an axis X (hereinafter referred to as "device axis X"). The aerosol generating device 15 includes an outer casing 22 and internal components disposed within the outer casing 22. The outer casing 22 defines an article socket 26 and at least one inlet 28. The internal components include, for example, a heating system 30 for heating at least a portion of the aerosol-generating article 20, a battery 24 for supplying power to the heating system 30, and a control unit 32 for controlling the supply of power to the heating system 30 by the battery 24.
[0087] The battery 24 is a known battery designed to be charged using a power source, such as with an external charger, and to supply a direct current of a predetermined voltage to the heating system 30 .
[0088] The article socket 26 is configured to receive at least a portion of the aerosol-generating article 20. To this end, the article socket 26 defines an aperture 36 opening to the exterior of the aerosol generating device 15 and is adapted to receive at least a portion of the aerosol-generating article 20 within said aperture 36. In Figure 1, the aerosol-generating article 20 is inserted into the aperture 36.
[0089] The inlet 28 allows air to enter from outside the outer casing 22. An interior air flow passage may extend from the inlet 28 to direct air to the article receptacle 26.
[0090] Heating system 30 includes a heating element that may be disposed, for example, adjacent at least a wall of article socket 26. Heating system is configured to generate heat when connected, for example, to battery 24 and powered by battery 24. When aerosol-generating article 20 is inserted into hole 36 and heating system 30 is powered by battery 24, the temperature of heating system 30 is, for example, between 200°C and 350°C.
[0091] In a variant not shown, the heating system 30 includes a heating system device portion and a heating system article portion. The heating system device portion can include an electromagnetic emitter configured to generate an electromagnetic field when powered by the battery 24. The emitter can include, for example, a magnetic coil disposed around the article socket 26. The heating system article portion can thus include a susceptor configured to generate heat when traversed by the electromagnetic field. The susceptor can be, for example, integrated into the aerosol-generating substrate of the article 20.
[0092] The control unit 32 is adapted to control the operation of the heating system 30. More specifically, the control unit 32 is configured to control the supply of power to the heating system 30 by the battery 24.
[0093] As shown in FIG. 2, the aerosol-generating article 20 includes an aerosol-generating substrate 40, a filter 45, an article wrapper 47, and, in some embodiments, a cooling or spacing element 42 disposed between the aerosol-generating substrate 40 and the filter 45.
[0094] In a preferred embodiment, the length of the aerosol-generating substrate 40 is between 10 and 30 mm, preferably between 15 and 25 mm, more preferably substantially equal to 20 mm (±2 mm). In said embodiment, the length of the filter 45 is between 10 and 30 mm, preferably between 15 and 25 mm, more preferably substantially equal to 20 mm (±2 mm). In said embodiment, the length of the cooling or spacing element 42 is between 10 and 30 mm, preferably between 15 and 25 mm, more preferably substantially equal to 20 mm (±2 mm).
[0095] Preferably, the length of the aerosol-generating article 20 is between 40 and 90 mm, more preferably between 50 and 70 mm, most preferably between 55 and 65 mm, for example substantially equal to 60 mm (±2 mm).
[0096] The aerosol-generating substrate 40 includes a downstream end 50 adjacent the cooling or spacing element 42 in the example of Figure 2, or adjacent the filter 45 if the cooling or spacing element 42 is not provided. The aerosol-generating substrate 40 is designed to be heated by the heating system 30 of the aerosol-generating device 15 to form an aerosol, as previously described.
[0097] The cooling or spacing element 42 provides a sufficient distance between the aerosol-generating substrate 40 and the mouth end without affecting the pressure resistance of the article 20. The cooling or spacing element 42 may be configured to cool the aerosol before it reaches the filter 45. The cooling or spacing element 42 may be, for example, a hollow tube, preferably made of paper. During a vaping session, the aerosol generated by the aerosol-generating substrate 40 flows through the cooling or spacing element 42 before it reaches the filter 45. For example, the cooling or spacing element 42 may be hollow or may include additional flow guides, for example to mix the flow originating from the aerosol-generating substrate 40 and / or to enhance the cooling effect. The cooling or spacing element 42 may further include circumferentially arranged ventilation holes. The ventilation holes should preferably be positioned at a short distance from the filter 45, preferably between 1 mm and 7 mm, more preferably between 2.5 mm and 6 mm, and most preferably between 3 mm and 5.5 mm.
[0098] The aerosol-generating substrate 40, the filter 45, and optionally the cooling or spacing element 42 are held together using an article wrapper 47. As depicted in FIG. 2, the article wrapper 47 may be formed by a unique wrapper that extends along at least a portion of the aerosol-generating article 20. For example, as shown in FIG. 3, the article wrapper 47 may entirely cover the filter 45, the cooling or spacing element 42, and partially cover the aerosol-generating substrate 40. According to other embodiments, the filter 45 may not be partially covered, and / or the aerosol-generating substrate 40 may be entirely covered. According to yet another embodiment, the article wrapper 47 extends the entire length of the aerosol-generating article 20. In a variation not shown, the article wrapper 47 includes multiple wrappers disposed along the aerosol-generating article 20. The wrappers may overlap and are held together, for example, using an adhesive at the overlap.
[0099] The filter 45 extends along a filter axis F between an upstream end 55 and a mouth end 60. In the example of FIG. 2, the upstream end 55 contacts the cooling or spacing element 42, or the upstream end 55 can contact the downstream end 50 of the aerosol-generating substrate 40 if the cooling or spacing element 42 is not provided. In either case, the upstream end 55 and the downstream end 50 are in fluid communication. In other words, during a vaping session, when a user inhales, the aerosol generated by the aerosol-generating substrate 40 passes through the downstream end 50 and through the cooling or spacing element 42 before reaching the upstream end 55. The mouth end 60 of the filter 45 is intended to be received in the mouth of the user.
[0100] The filter 45 may be realized according to one of the embodiments described below.
[0101] First embodiment of the present invention According to a first embodiment, shown in Figure 3, filter 45 includes a mouth end filter portion 65 adjacent mouth end 60 and an upstream end filter portion 70 adjacent upstream end 55. According to the first embodiment, mouth end filter portion 65 and upstream end filter portion 70 form separate filter segments that are maintained in close proximity, as described in more detail below.
[0102] The mouth end filter section 65 includes a hollow inner tube 75 and a filter paper material 77 surrounding the hollow inner tube 75. The filter paper material 77 is formed from a gathered sheet of paper, which may be further crimped. The crimped paper sheet allows the paper to be made fluffier, and therefore to take up more volume and to increase pressure loss. The hollow inner tube 75 extends along the filter axis F. The hollow inner tube 75 opens at the mouth end 60 of the filter 45. The hollow inner tube 75 is therefore visible to a user looking at the filter 45 from the mouth end 60, as shown in the right part of FIG. 3. In the example of FIG. 3, the hollow inner tube 75 has a circular cross section. Alternatively, the cross section may be triangular, square, pentagonal, hexagonal, heptagonal, octagonal, nonagonal, or other polygonal shape. Alternatively, the cross section may be star-shaped, for example a star with five points. The hollow inner tube 75 is preferably made of paper. The hollow inner tube 75 may be formed by a spirally wound paper sheet. As an example, the hollow inner tube 75 extends over the entire length of the mouth end filter portion 65, so that when the filter 45 is assembled, the hollow inner tube 75 opens into the upstream end filter portion 70. During a vaping session, the aerosol passes through the inside of the hollow inner tube 75, thus reducing the pressure loss caused by the filter 45. If made of paper, the hollow inner tube 75 may be biodegradable.
[0103] The inner diameter of the hollow inner tube 75 may be between 2 and 5 mm, preferably between 2.5 and 4.0 mm, more preferably substantially equal to 3 mm. The ratio between the diameter of the hollow inner tube and the diameter of the filter may be between 0.125 and 0.545. Here, the filter diameter 45 is taken as the outer diameter of the filter without the wrapper. The wall thickness of the tube 75 is preferably greater than 60 μm, preferably between 70 μm and 300 μm. The tube 75 preferably forms a plurality of superimposed cardboard layers.
[0104] The filter paper 77 comprises paper, preferably made of paper. The filter paper is preferably a gathered sheet of paper. The basis weight of the filter paper sheet 77 is, for example, between 20 and 120 gsm, preferably substantially equal to 35 gsm. The thickness of the filter paper 77 is, for example, between 30 μm and 100 μm. The porosity of the filter paper 77 is preferably between 0 and 3000 CU. The contact angle of the filter paper 77 is less than 90°. The tensile strength of the filter paper 77 is higher than 18 N per 15 mm. Advantageously, the filter paper 77 is made of a single sheet, for example a paper tape, by folding the single sheet to form a number of layers extending along the filter axis F.
[0105] Alternatively, the filter paper 77 is replaced by a nonwoven sheet 77. The nonwoven sheet is preferably made of multiple sheets bonded or twisted together by a binder.
[0106] The nonwoven sheet may have a basis weight of 20 to 100 gsm, preferably 30 to 80 gsm, and more preferably 40 to 65 gsm.
[0107] The thickness of the nonwoven fabric sheet may be from 0.8 to 1.6 mm, preferably from 1.0 to 1.4 mm, and more preferably substantially equal to 1.2 mm.
[0108] In some embodiments, the mouth end filter portion 65 may also include a mouth end filter wrapper 80 that encases the filter paper 77 of the mouth end filter portion 65. The wrapper 80 may be made of the same material as the filter paper 77.
[0109] The upstream filter portion 70 forms a low pressure drop filter paper. The upstream filter portion 70 includes, for example, the same filter paper 77 as the mouth end filter portion 65. For the mouth end filter portion 65, the filter paper 77 may be made of a single sheet, for example, a paper tape, by folding the single sheet to form multiple layers extending along the filter axis F. The cross-sectional densities of the filter paper 77 of the mouth end filter portion 65 and the filter paper 77 of the upstream filter portion 70 may be substantially the same or different. For example, according to one embodiment, the cross-sectional density of the filter paper 77 of the mouth end filter portion 65 may be higher than the corresponding density of the filter paper 77 of the upstream filter portion 70. This is mainly due to the presence of the hollow inner tube 75 in the mouth end filter portion 65. In this case, for example, the same amount of filter paper 77 may be used to form both filter portions 65, 70. However, because the hollow inner tube 75 is inserted into the mouth end filter portion 65, the filter paper 77 in the mouth end filter portion 65 may exhibit a higher density.
[0110] Preferably, the density of the filter paper 77 in the mouth end filter portion 65 is 0.0200 mg / mm 3 ~0.180mg / mm 3 , advantageously 0.0250 mg / mm 3 ~0.135mg / mm 3 Similarly, the density of the filter paper 77 in the upstream end filter portion 70 is 0.0200 mg / mm 3 ~0.170mg / mm 3 , advantageously 0.0250 mg / mm 3 ~0.130mg / mm 3 It is.
[0111] According to some embodiments, the upstream filter portion 70 also includes an upstream filter wrapper 85 that encases the filter paper 77 of the upstream filter portion 70. The upstream filter wrapper 85, like the mouth filter wrapper 80, can be made, for example, of paper. For example, the wrapper 80 can be made of the same material as the filter paper 77.
[0112] In some embodiments, at least one of the mouth end filter wrapper 80 and the upstream end filter wrapper 85 is made integral with the corresponding filter paper 77. Thus, in this case, a first portion of the filter paper 77 can be folded over to form multiple layers, and then a second portion can be wrapped around the folded layers to form the corresponding wrapper 80, 85.
[0113] Preferably, the filter wrapper 80 of the mouth end filter portion 65 has a basis weight of 20-70 gsm and can have a thickness of substantially 30-80 μm. The filter wrapper 85 of the filter paper segment 70 preferably has a basis weight of greater than 45 gsm, preferably between 45 gsm and 120 gsm, more preferably between 80 gsm and 100 gsm, and can have a thickness of substantially 80-125 μm.
[0114] In this first embodiment, to manufacture the upstream end filter portion 70, the filter paper 77 may be folded over to form a continuous tube. An upstream filter wrapper 85 then surrounds the continuous tube. The tube may be cut at predetermined distances to form the upstream end filter portion 70.
[0115] The mouth end filter portion 65 and the upstream end filter portion 70 are held together using a common outer wrapper 87, which may, for example, have a length equal to the sum of the length of the mouth end filter portion 65 and the length of the upstream end filter portion 70. The common outer wrapper 87 may, for example, be a plug wrap. Preferably, the basis weight of the plug wrap is substantially equal to 20 to 70 gsm and the thickness of the plug wrap is substantially equal to 30 to 80 μm.
[0116] Optionally, at least one of the upstream filter 70 and the mouth end filter portion 65 includes a taste improving or performance enhancing additive. Such taste improving additives are, for example, flavorants such as menthol, peppermint, berry, lemon, peach, apple, cardamom, cherry, celery, fenugreek, bergamot, jasmine, ginger, orange oil, lemon oil, cinnamon, coffee, tobacco powder, herbs, spices, flavor enhancers, sugars, sugar substitutes, and combinations thereof, that enhance and / or modify the taste of the aerosol when in contact with the aerosol. The performance additive can be glycerin, PG, PPG, lactic acid.
[0117] Second embodiment of the present invention A filter 145 according to a second embodiment will now be described with reference to Figure 4, and only with respect to the differences from the filter 45 according to the first embodiment. Each element of this second embodiment that is not described should be considered to be similar to the corresponding element of the first embodiment.
[0118] According to the second embodiment, the filter includes a mouth end filter portion 165 and an upstream end filter portion 170 that form a single filter segment. Thus, both portions 165, 170 of the filter 145 are essentially held together. Additionally, both portions 165, 170 include filter paper 77, as described in connection with the previous case.
[0119] Thus, by compressing the filter paper 77 in the mouth end filter portion 165, the hollow inner tube 75 can be simply inserted into this portion 165. Thus, the mouth end filter portion 165 and the upstream end filter portion 170 can exhibit different cross-sectional densities.
[0120] According to the second embodiment, the filter 145 does not include separate wrappers for the portions 165, 170, as is necessary with the wrappers 80, 85 according to the first embodiment.
[0121] Third embodiment of the present invention A filter 245 according to a third embodiment will now be described with reference to Fig. 5, focusing only on the differences from the filter 45 according to the first embodiment. Elements of this third embodiment that are not described should be considered to be similar to the elements of the first embodiment.
[0122] In this embodiment, the filter 245 includes an upstream filter portion 270 similar to the upstream filter portion 70 described above, but further including a flavor capsule 295 trapped within a filter paper 77. The density of the filter paper 77 may be increased as compared to the previous case. During a vaping session, aerosol passes through the upstream filter portion 270, contacts the flavor capsule 295 and becomes enriched with the flavor of the flavor capsule 295, and then passes through the mouth end of the filter portion 65 to the user's mouth.
[0123] The diameter of the flavor capsule can be 2.5-4.5 mm. Additionally, the flavor capsule 295 can include an outer shell that contains a flavor releasable during vaping. The flavor can be, for example, a liquid or a powder. The flavor can be, for example, menthol, peppermint, berry, lemon, peach, apple, cardamom, cherry, celery, fenugreek, bergamot, jasmine, ginger, orange oil, lemon oil, cinnamon, and the like.
[0124] The shell of the flavor capsule 295 is preferably breakable by the user squeezing the upstream filter portion 270. After such squeezing, the flavor spreads into the upstream filter portion 270 and is absorbed by the filter paper 77. The capsule may be a capsule as described in EP 1906775 B1. For example, the capsule shell may contain at least one hydrocolloid selected from gellan gum, agar, alginate, carrageenan, pectin, gum arabic, gum ghatti, pullulan gum, mannan gum, or modified starch, either alone or as a mixture or combination thereof. In such a case, the aerosol passing through the upstream filter portion 70 during a vaping session contains a large amount of the flavor of the liquid originally contained in the flavor capsule 95.
[0125] To manufacture the upstream filter portion 270, a flavor capsule 295 is, for example, inserted into the filter paper 77 of the upstream filter portion 270 before the filter paper 77 is gathered and crimped to form the upstream filter portion 270. The upstream filter wrapper 85 then surrounds the filter paper 77.
[0126] Fourth embodiment of the present invention Here, a fourth embodiment of filter 345 will be described with reference to Fig. 6, focusing only on the differences from the second embodiment of filter 145. Elements of the fourth embodiment that are not described should be considered to be similar to the elements of the second embodiment.
[0127] In this embodiment, the filter 345 includes an upstream filter portion 370 similar to the upstream filter portion 170 described above, but including a flavour capsule 395 trapped within the filter paper 77 of the upstream filter portion 70. The flavour capsule 395 is similar to, for example, the capsule 295 described in connection with the third embodiment of the invention. The flavour capsule 395 can be integrated into the upstream filter portion 370 using methods similar to those described above.
[0128] Fifth embodiment of the present invention A fifth embodiment of filter 445 will now be described with reference to Fig. 7, focusing only on the differences from the third embodiment of filter 245. Elements of the fifth embodiment that are not described should be considered to be similar to the elements of the third embodiment.
[0129] In the fifth embodiment, filter 445 includes an oral end filter portion 465, an upstream end filter portion 470, and a hollow inner tube 475 similar to hollow inner tube 75 according to the third embodiment.
[0130] In the fifth embodiment, the upstream end filter section 470 comprises a hollow inner tube 475 and the above-described filter paper material 77. The features relating to the density filter paper material 77 described above for the mouth end filter section are applicable to the upstream end filter section 470 of the fifth embodiment since the hollow inner tube 475 is located within the upstream end filter section 470. Similarly, the features relating to pressure drop in the upstream end filter section described in the third embodiment are applicable to the mouth end filter section 465 of the fifth embodiment since the hollow inner tube 475 is located within the upstream end filter section 470.
[0131] The hollow inner tube 475 opens at the upstream end 55 of the filter 445. By way of example, the hollow inner tube 475 extends the entire length of the upstream end filter portion 470, such that when the filter 445 is assembled, the hollow inner tube 475 opens into the mouth end filter portion 465. During a vaping session, the aerosol passes through the interior of the hollow inner tube 475, thus reducing the pressure loss caused by the filter 445.
[0132] According to the fifth embodiment, the density of the filter paper 77 in the upstream end filter portion 470 is 0.0200 mg / mm 3 ~0.180mg / mm 3 , advantageously 0.0250 mg / mm 3 ~0.135mg / mm 3 Similarly, the density of the filter paper 77 in the mouth end filter portion 465 is 0.0200 mg / mm 3 ~0.170mg / mm 3 , advantageously 0.0250 mg / mm 3 ~0.130mg / mm 3 It is.
[0133] It will be apparent that the mouth end filter section 465 includes the filter paper material 77 described above, except that the filter paper material 77 does not surround the hollow inner tube 475 as the hollow inner tube 475 is located within the upstream end filter section 470 .
[0134] In the fifth embodiment, the filter 445 may further include a flavour capsule 495 similar to the flavour capsule 295 of the filter 245 according to the third embodiment. However, the capsule 495 is located within the mouth end filter portion 465.
[0135] Manufacture of the filter 445 according to the fifth embodiment is similar to manufacture of the filter 295 according to the third embodiment, except that the hollow inner tube 475 is in the upstream end filter portion 470 and the flavor capsule 495 is in the mouth end filter portion 465.
[0136] Sixth embodiment A sixth embodiment of filter 545 will now be described with reference to Fig. 8, focusing only on the differences from the fourth embodiment of filter 345. Elements of the sixth embodiment that are not described should be considered to be similar to the elements of the fourth embodiment.
[0137] In this embodiment, filter 545 includes an oral end filter portion 565, an upstream end filter portion 570, and a hollow inner tube 575 similar to the hollow inner tube according to the third embodiment.
[0138] In the sixth embodiment, the upstream end filter section 570 comprises a hollow inner tube 575 and the above-mentioned filter paper material 77. With respect to the mouth end filter section, the features relating to the density filter paper material 77 described in the third embodiment are applicable to the upstream end filter section 570 of the fifth embodiment since the hollow inner tube 575 is located within the upstream end filter section 570. Similarly, the features relating to the pressure drop of the upstream end filter section described in the third embodiment are applicable to the mouth end filter section 565 of the fifth embodiment since the hollow inner tube 575 is located within the upstream end filter section 570.
[0139] The hollow inner tube 575 opens at the upstream end 55 of the filter 545. As an example, the hollow inner tube 575 extends the entire length of the upstream end filter portion 570, such that when the filter 545 is assembled, the hollow inner tube 575 opens into the mouth end filter portion 565. During a vaping session, the aerosol passes through the interior of the hollow inner tube 575, thus reducing the pressure loss caused by the filter 545.
[0140] According to the sixth embodiment, the density of the filter paper 77 in the upstream end filter portion 570 is 0.0200 mg / mm 3 ~0.180mg / mm 3 , advantageously 0.0250 mg / mm 3 ~0.135mg / mm 3 Similarly, the density of the filter paper 77 in the mouth end filter portion 565 is 0.0200 mg / mm 3 ~0.170mg / mm 3 , advantageously 0.0250 mg / mm 3 ~0.130mg / mm 3 It is.
[0141] It will be apparent that the mouth end filter section 565 includes the filter paper material 77 described above, except that the filter paper material 77 does not surround the hollow inner tube 575 as the hollow inner tube 575 is located within the upstream end filter section 570 .
[0142] In the sixth embodiment, the filter 545 may further include a flavour capsule 595 similar to the flavour capsule 395 of the filter 345 according to the fourth embodiment. However, the capsule 595 is located within the mouth end filter portion 565.
[0143] Manufacture of the filter 545 according to the sixth embodiment is similar to manufacture of the filter 395 according to the fourth embodiment, except that a hollow inner tube 575 is located within the upstream end filter portion 570 and a flavor capsule 595 is located within the mouth end filter portion 565.
[0144] Operation of the Invention The operation of the aerosol-generating article 20 according to the present invention, and more specifically the operation of the filters 45, 145, 245, 345, will now be described.
[0145] Initially, the aerosol-generating article 20 is inserted into the article socket 26 of the aerosol-generating assembly 10. During a vaping session, the aerosol-generating substrate 40 heats up and releases an aerosol. When a user inhales, the aerosol is drawn through the aerosol-generating article 20. In particular, the aerosol passes through the aerosol-generating substrate 40 until it reaches the downstream end 50. If applicable, the aerosol then passes through the cooling or spacing element 42, where the aerosol is cooled. The aerosol then reaches the upstream end 55 of the filter 45.
[0146] The aerosol then passes through the upstream end filter portion 70, 170, 270, 370, in which the pressure of the aerosol drops slightly. If the filter is according to the third or fourth embodiment, the aerosol reaches the flavor capsule 295, 395. Preferably, the flavor capsule 295, 395 is a frangible capsule that is broken by applying a force to the capsule, thereby releasing the flavor. For example, the capsule can have a crushing strength (measured in EP 1906775 B1) of 5 to 25 N. The aerosol is therefore rich in the flavor of the flavor.
[0147] The aerosol then reaches the oral end filter portion 65, 165. Preferably, the aerosol passes primarily through the hollow inner tube 75, where the aerosol pressure remains substantially constant. At least a portion of the aerosol passes through the filter paper 77 surrounding the hollow inner tube 75, where the aerosol pressure again drops slightly. Finally, the aerosol reaches the oral end 60. The aerosol then flows into the user's mouth.
[0148] When the filter 445, 545 is according to the fifth or sixth embodiment, the operation of the aerosol-generating article 20 is similar to that presented above, with the exception of the following: When the aerosol reaches the upstream end 55, it flows primarily through the hollow inner tubes 475, 575 in the upstream end filter portion 470, 570 until it reaches the mouth end filter portion 465, 565.
[0149] Upon reaching the mouth end filter portion 465, 565, the aerosol flows through the filter paper 77 until it reaches the flavour capsule 495, 595 which has been previously crushed by the user and is rich in flavourant.
[0150] The aerosol then reaches the oral end 60 and flows into the user's mouth.
[0151] In any of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth embodiments, the pressure drop of the filter 45, 145, 245, 345 according to the present invention is preferably less than 5 mmH2O per mm, more preferably less than 3 mmH2O per mm.
[0152] For example, if the filter 45, 145 according to the invention does not include a flavor capsule, the pressure drop is preferably less than 3 mmH2O per mm. If the filter 245, 345 according to the invention includes a flavor capsule 295, 395, the pressure drop is preferably less than 5 mmH2O per mm.
[0153] The target pressure drop across the aerosol-generating article 20 can be 1-7 mmH2O per mm. The pressure drop is measured under standard conditions according to ISO6565:2015. The pressure drop is the static pressure, expressed in mmH2O, also expressed in mmWG, or Pascals (1 mmWG=9.8067 Pa), measured by a calibrated / adjusted pressure drop measuring instrument across the tested filter segment when air flows through it under steady conditions with a measured volumetric flow rate of 17.5 ml / s at the output end under standard conditions. The filter sample is completely enclosed within an impermeable sleeve to prevent air from "short-circuiting" down the outside of the sample. The pressure drop per unit length (PD / mm) is obtained by measuring the determined length of the filter sample and dividing the pressure drop value by the filter length in millimeters.
Claims
1. An aerosol generating article (20) comprising a filter (445; 545), wherein the filter (445; 545) extends between an upstream end (55) and a mouthpiece end (60) along a filter axis (F), and the upstream end (55) is configured to be in fluid communication with a downstream end (50) of an aerosol generating substrate (40), the filter (445; 545) comprises, - a mouthpiece end filter portion (465; 565), and - an upstream end filter portion (470; 570) adjacent to the mouthpiece end filter portion (465; 565), the mouthpiece end filter portion and the upstream end filter portion comprise a filter paper or a non-woven sheet (77), - a hollow inner tube (475; 575) inserted into the upstream end filter portion (470; 570) so as to extend through this portion (465; 565) and opening at the mouthpiece end filter portion (465, 565) of the filter (445; 545), and an aerosol generating article (20).
2. The aerosol generating article (20) according to claim 1, wherein the upstream end filter portion (470; 570) comprises a plug wrap having a basis weight of more than 45 gsm, preferably 45 gsm to 120 gsm, more preferably 80 gsm to 100 gsm.
3. The filter (445; 545) is as claimed in claim 1 or 2, and the mouthpiece end filter portion (470; 570) comprises a sheet with gathered paper providing a low pressure loss filter paper (77), wherein the low pressure loss filter paper preferably has a pressure loss of less than 5 mmHg2O per 1 mm of length, more preferably less than 3 mmHg2O per 1 mm of length, and the aerosol generating article (20) according to claim 1 or 2.
4. The filter paper or non-woven sheet (77) of the upstream end filter portion (465; 565) surrounds the hollow inner tube (75). Preferably, the density of the filter paper (77) in the upstream end filter portion (465; 565) is 0.0200 mg / mm 3 to 0.180 mg / mm 3 , preferably 0.025 mg / mm 3 to 0.135 mg / mm 3 The aerosol generating article (20) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the aerosol generating article is as described above.
5. The aerosol generating article (20) according to claim 4, wherein the mouthpiece end filter portion (565) and the upstream end filter portion (570) form a single filter segment comprising a filter paper or non-woven sheet (77) wrapped by a common filter wrapper (187).
6. The upstream end filter portion (470) and the mouthpiece end filter portion (465) form separate filter segments individually wrapped by respective filter wrappers (80, 85). The aerosol generating article (20) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the mouth-side end filter portion (465) and the upstream end filter portion (470) are assembled to each other by a common outer wrapper (187).
7. The aerosol generating article (20) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the mouth-side end filter portion (465; 565) and the upstream end filter portion (470; 570) are adjacent to each other, and the hollow inner tube (475, 575) opens at the upstream end (55) of the upstream end filter portion (470, 570).
8. The aerosol generating article (20) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the hollow inner tube (475; 575) is made of paper.
9. The aerosol generating article (20) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the hollow inner tube (475; 575) has a circular cross-section, a triangular cross-section, or a square cross-section.
10. The aerosol generating article (20) according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising at least one flavor capsule (495; 595).
11. The aerosol generating article (20) according to claim 10, wherein the flavor capsule (495; 595) is inserted into the mouth-side end filter portion (465; 565).
12. The aerosol generating article (20) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the upstream end filter portion (470; 570) and / or the mouth-side end filter portion (465, 565) contains a taste improving additive or a performance improving additive.
13. The aerosol generating article (20) according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising an aerosol generating substrate (40) including a downstream end (50).
14. The aerosol generating article (20) according to claim 13, further comprising a cooling or spacing element (42) disposed between the aerosol generating substrate (40) and the filter (445; 545), and the cooling or spacing element is preferably adjacent to the downstream end (50).
15. The density of the filter paper (77) within the oral-side end filter portion (465; 565) is 0.0200 mg / mm 3 to 0.170 mg / mm 3 , preferably 0.0250 mg / mm 3 to 0.130 mg / mm 3 The aerosol generating article (20) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the density is as described above.