Long-lasting flavour delivery for heated tobacco products

Abstract

The present invention relates to an aerosol product article comprising: an aerosol substance containing portion; at least one filter spaced from the aerosol substance containing portion by a tubular or spacing element; at least one first flavour element comprising a first temperature sensitive carrier containing a first flavour; and at least one second flavour element comprising a second temperature sensitive carrier containing a second flavour, wherein the first flavour carrier is configured to start emitting the first flavour after a first time period after heating the aerosol product article during a steam inhalation session, and the second flavour carrier is configured to start emitting the second flavour after a second time period after heating the aerosol product article during the same steam inhalation session, the second time period being delayed from the first time period. The present invention also relates to a method for forming an aerosol during a steam inhalation session using an aerosol product article comprising at least a first and a second flavour element.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an aerosol product comprising at least a first and a second flavour element for prolonged flavour delivery, the first and second flavour elements each comprising a flavour-containing temperature sensitive carrier. The present invention also relates to a method for forming an aerosol during a steam inhalation session using such an aerosol product comprising at least a first and a second flavour element. [Background technology]

[0002] The taste of a typical vapor inhalation article containing a smokable substance such as tobacco can be modified by flavorants as additives to enhance the aerosol during a vapor inhalation session. This can be achieved by various flavoring devices to enhance the taste of the vapor inhalation article. A vapor inhalation session is usually limited by a maximum number of puffs possible, such as 15-20 puffs per session. However, the quality and intensity of the flavor of the aerosol may decay over the course of the vapor inhalation session. The flavor intensity of the last puff may be significantly lower than that of the first puff.

[0003] Also, the flavor release is typically monotonic, with substantially the same flavor released during a vaping session, and a change in flavor during a vaping session, for example from a primary flavor (e.g., menthol) to a secondary flavor (e.g., citrus), is typically not perceptible. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide an aerosol product which allows the aerosol to be enriched with flavourant during the entire steam inhalation session whilst controlling the flavour intensity of the aerosol flavour and / or allowing perceptible changes in the flavour emitted during the session.Furthermore, it is also an object of the present invention to provide a method for forming an aerosol using said aerosol product. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] The above mentioned requirements are met by the subject matter of claim 1. Preferred embodiments are the subject matter of the dependent claims.

[0006] According to the present invention there is provided an aerosol product comprising: an aerosol substance-containing portion; at least one filter spaced from the aerosol substance-containing portion by a tubular or spacing element; at least one first flavor element comprising a first temperature sensitive carrier containing a first flavor; at least one second flavor element comprising a second temperature sensitive carrier containing a second flavor, The aerosol product article, wherein the first flavour carrier is configured to begin emitting a first flavour after a first period of time after heating the aerosol product article during a vapor inhalation session, and the second flavour carrier is configured to begin emitting a second flavour after a second period of time after heating the aerosol product article during the same vapor inhalation session.

[0007] According to the invention, the second period of time is delayed from the first period of time.

[0008] For example, a steam inhalation session may be assigned a total time (e.g., about 180 seconds) and / or a maximum number of puffs (e.g., 14 puffs) from when heating starts until heating is stopped and the session is terminated. For example, the first period may be set to be within half of the assigned time, within a time period between 0 and 90 seconds of the steam inhalation session, or within a corresponding time period based on a predetermined number of puffs counted. For example, the first period before the first flavor is released may be, for example, 2 seconds, 5 seconds, or 10 seconds. The release of the flavor may last for a certain release period, for example, about 88 seconds, 85 seconds, or 80 seconds, during which the user enjoys a vapor flavored with the first flavor. The aerosol is preferably rich in the original flavor, for example the original tobacco flavor, before the first period. The second period may be set to be included after the release of the first flavor starts until just before the release of the first flavor ends or weakens. For example, the second period may be 50, 60, or 80 seconds, or another equivalent time based on a predefined number of puffs counted. In this example, the time delay between the first period of the steam inhalation session and the second period of the same steam inhalation session may vary between 10 and 100 seconds. This delay may therefore increase the total time that flavour is released during the session. This delay may also result in separate release of the first and second flavours. This delay may be selected to provide an overlap between the first and second flavours, thereby avoiding a sudden drop in flavour.

[0009] The aerosol product of the present invention relates to an article for use in a device for heating smokable material to generate an aerosol. Examples of such products are so-called "heat-not-burn" articles, also known as tobacco heating products or tobacco heating devices, which release compounds by heating, rather than burning, a material. Preferably, said aerosol product article comprises a heatable portion that may contain a substance for generating an aerosol. Furthermore, the aerosol substance-containing portion of the aerosol product article is preferably heatable by an electric vapor inhalation device. This portion may be heated by an external heater (e.g., an oven) or by a heater inserted or embedded within the substance (e.g., a resistive blade or an inductive heating element or material). The heatable portion preferably comprises a tobacco substrate, such as tobacco strips, reconstituted tobacco (or processed tobacco mixtures), or other heatable products containing nicotine. In the following, the aerosol substance-containing portion will be referred to as the heatable portion for simplicity.

[0010] The aerosol product preferably further comprises a filter part comprising at least one filter segment. The filter part may be divided into at least two segments. A first segment of the filter part preferably comprises a fibrous material such as cellulose acetate or paper fibres. A further segment may comprise filter granules such as charcoal grains, or a tubular filter segment, or a tubular mouth end segment. The segments of the filter part are preferably connected to each other and may be fixed by a common wrapper. It is also conceivable that each segment of the filter part is surrounded by its own wrapper and / or a common wrapper.

[0011] The heatable and filter portions of the aerosol product article are preferably spaced apart using at least one spacing element and / or tubular element. The spacing element and / or tubular element may include a cavity to ensure that the generated aerosol cools as it flows from the heated portion along the article to the filter portion and into the consumer's mouth. The cavity may be completely empty or at least partially filled with a heat transfer structure such as a polylactic acid nonwoven mat. The spacing element and / or tubular element are preferably formed from a wrapping material, which connects the heatable and filter portions of the article. Alternatively or additionally, the spacing element and / or tubular element may be formed from a paper tube, which may ensure compressibility and / or resistance to buckling of the aerosol product article.

[0012] During a steam inhalation session, the heatable portion of the aerosol product article includes a higher temperature range and the filter portion of the article includes a lower temperature range. Thus, a relatively large temperature gradient occurs along the article. It is possible that the heatable portion of the article can include temperatures that vary within the range of 320°C to 230°C. The temperature at the location of the flavor element within the heatable portion varies depending on the distance to the heating element. Temperature cycling can cause changes in the temperature of the heatable portion, especially during the temperature increase, and can cause a controlled temperature increase or decrease during the session. Furthermore, the filter portion of the article can include temperatures that vary within the range of 60°C and 30°C.

[0013] The temperature also varies within the tubular or spacing element. The tubular or spacing element may also include a vent zone that admits air within the element. The vent zone may be provided by a number of perforations (e.g. laser perforations). In particular, the vent zone may be located at a distance of 18-28 mm from the mouth end of the article and / or at a distance of 2-10 mm from the downstream end of the tubular or spacing element. Upstream of the vent zone, the aerosol temperature may be significantly higher than at and downstream of the vent zone.

[0014] Thus, a temperature gradient along the aerosol product can be used to substantially control the release of flavor in the aerosol product, thereby extending the delivery of the flavor and / or adjusting the taste of the flavor perceived by the consumer.

[0015] The aerosol product preferably comprises at least one first flavor element comprising a first temperature sensitive carrier containing a first flavor. It is also preferred that the aerosol product comprises at least one second flavor element comprising a second temperature sensitive carrier containing a second flavor. The first and second flavor elements are comprised in the same or different parts of the aerosol product. It is considered that the first and / or second flavor elements are preferably comprised in the heatable part of the article surrounded by the substance for generating the aerosol. Alternatively or additionally, the first and / or second flavor elements may be comprised in the filter part of the article, preferably in at least a part of the filter part. Alternatively or additionally, the spacing element or the tubular element may comprise the first and / or second flavor elements, and the first and / or second flavor elements may be part of the spacing or tubular part of the article. In a possible aspect, a first flavour element is contained within the heatable portion and a second flavour element is contained within a spaced or tubular portion of the article or within the filter.

[0016] Such an aerosol product is suitable for long-lasting flavor delivery during one steam inhalation session, where at least the first and / or second flavor elements release flavor molecules of a first and / or second flavor out of the first and / or second temperature sensitive carrier. The released flavor molecules preferably enrich the generated aerosol with specific aroma, flavor, and / or taste characteristics. Thus, the first flavor carrier is configured to start releasing a first flavor, preferably a first type of flavor molecules, after a first period of time after heating the aerosol product, in particular the heatable portion of the article. Furthermore, the second flavor carrier is configured to start releasing a second flavor, preferably a second type of flavor molecules, after a second period of time after heating the aerosol product, during the same steam inhalation session.

[0017] Due to the fact that the first and second periods are preferably delayed relative to each other, the release of flavors can generally be extended for a longer period than if the first and second flavors were released after the same period. It is also possible that the first flavor carrier starts releasing the first flavor after a first predetermined period, and the second flavor carrier starts releasing the second flavor during a second predetermined period, the second period being pre-determined to start before the release (i.e. the released concentration) of the first flavor starts to decrease, or at least before the release of the first flavor is exhausted. As a result, there is no or only a small perception of flavor loss during the steam inhalation session. The exhaustion of the first and / or second flavors can occur after 20 seconds, preferably after 90 seconds, also preferably after 120 seconds. It is preferred that the second flavor carrier starts releasing the second flavor before the first flavor is exhausted, so that there is no time gap between the first and second periods. Thus, it is preferred that the release of the first and second flavours overlap in time, resulting in a continuous overall delivery of flavour throughout the vapor inhalation session, without any noticeable flavour transitions, such as reduced flavour fullness.

[0018] It is also conceivable that the aerosol product article comprises three or more flavor elements, preferably three or four, each of which comprises a flavor carrier. Each flavor carrier preferably comprises a releasable flavor, preferably a flavorant molecule. For example, an aerosol product article having three flavor elements can provide an extended and long-lasting flavor delivery by releasing the flavors one after the other from the carrier upon heating of the article. Thus, the third flavor carrier may be configured to initiate the release of the third flavor during the same vapor inhalation session as the release of the first and / or second flavor upon heating of the aerosol product article.

[0019] The flavors contained in the different flavor carriers may match the original flavor of the aerosol product and / or may contain a different secondary flavor, allowing for concentrating, adjusting, or tailoring the aerosol produced and / or producing composite flavors with different flavor nuances.

[0020] In one example, the first flavor and the second flavor comprise the same flavor molecules. As a result, the risk of perceptible flavor intensity reduction can be reduced while controlling the sustained release of the same flavor throughout the vapor inhalation session. The first flavor may be contained in the first component in a different manner than the second flavor in the second component. As a result, the second flavor, when released, may overlap with the release of the first flavor, resulting in flavor enhancement. As the user becomes accustomed to the flavor, the flavor enhancement from the second component can maintain a satisfactory perceived intensity.

[0021] In a second example, the first flavor and the second flavor comprise different flavor molecules, thereby providing different taste profiles when vaporized (e.g., menthol vs. citrus). The advantage of such a configuration is the ability to adjust the taste during a smoking session, providing possible taste variations and nuances.

[0022] According to one aspect of the invention, the flavour carrier is made of a material with a melting point or glass transition point above ambient temperature, preferably between 24°C and 140°C, more preferably between 34°C and 140°C.

[0023] At least a first and a second flavor, preferably at least a first and a second type of flavorant molecule, are encapsulated within at least a first and / or a second flavorant carrier. It is also preferred that each flavorant carrier comprises a predetermined melting point or alternatively a glass transition point, which may be different from the melting point or alternatively a glass transition point of another carrier used within the article. Alternatively or additionally, one flavorant carrier may comprise at least two different flavors, preferably two different types of flavorant molecules, which are releasable by heating the aerosol product article.

[0024] The materials constituting the flavour carrier may include purely organic or inorganic ingredients, preferably a combination of several ingredients.

[0025] In this application, the term "melting point" (Tm) refers to the transition temperature or range of temperatures of a material from the solid to the liquid state at standard pressure (1 atm). During the transition, the temperature of the material becomes constant and all the heat supplied is invested in the state change and at the same time in the release of flavor, preferably flavorant molecules.

[0026] The term "glass transition" refers to the change in state of a material from a glassy solid state to a viscous or rubbery state as the temperature is increased. The glass transition temperature (Tg) refers to the temperature or temperature range at standard pressure (1 atm) where the glass transition occurs. For a particular material, flavor release may already be achieved when the glass transition temperature is reached due to a change in the state of the flavor carrier.

[0027] The flavor carriers of the different flavor elements are preferably meltable at different melting points, or alternatively at different glass transition points, so that the material of each carrier changes from a solid to a liquid or viscous state in a predefined period of time corresponding to the time when the carrier reaches its melting temperature, or alternatively its glass transition, in the article and the material becomes liquid or viscous. In particular, the flavor carrier may comprise a flavor-laden wax, butter, solid oil / fat, or other organic compound that is solid at ambient temperature. For example, the first melting point of the first flavor carrier may be within the range of 145°C and 135°C, preferably 140°C. The second melting point of the second flavor carrier may be within the range of 135°C and 120°C. Alternatively or additionally, the third melting point of the third flavor carrier may be within the range of 90°C and 80°C, preferably 82°C. It is further contemplated that the fourth melting point of the fourth flavor carrier may be within the range of 70°C and 60°C, preferably within the range of 64°C and 63°C. The fifth melting point of the fifth flavor carrier may be within the range of 40° C. and 30° C., preferably 34° C. Finally, the sixth melting point of the sixth flavor carrier may be within the range of 29° C. and 20° C., preferably 24° C.

[0028] According to another aspect of the invention, the first flavor element and the second flavor element are arranged at different positions along a flow path of air and / or aerosol within the article, and the flavor carrier of the first flavor element has substantially the same melting point, or alternatively, glass transition point, as the flavor carrier of the second flavor element.

[0029] The air and / or aerosol flow path preferably extends from the heatable portion of the aerosol product article to the filter portion and terminates in the consumer's mouth. The movement of the aerosol and / or air along the air and / or aerosol flow path of the article is induced by inhaling (i.e. taking a puff) on the article. In a possible aspect, the first and second flavor elements are embedded in the heatable portion of the article, which allows the use of flavor carriers with higher melting points or alternatively higher glass transition points while ensuring that they melt or otherwise soften during heating of the article in the device. The advantage is that the flavor carrier is less likely to melt, liquefy, soften or deteriorate due to temperature or pressure differences that may occur during storage or transportation.

[0030] The first flavor element is preferably located away from the second flavor element along the aerosol and / or air flow path of the article. In this case, the second flavor element is preferably further from the heatable portion of the article than the first flavor element. According to this, if both elements contain a flavor carrier with the same or similar melting point or alternatively a glass transition point, the first flavor element may release the first flavor or flavorant molecules earlier than the second element. The first flavor carrier may start releasing flavor when it reaches the temperature of its melting point or alternatively a glass transition point. Furthermore, the second flavor carrier may start releasing flavor after the first flavor carrier reaches a liquid state and before or when the first flavor is depleted. The second flavor carrier preferably reaches its melting temperature or alternatively a glass transition point later than the first flavor carrier, so that the second flavor carrier starts releasing flavor later than the first flavor carrier. This allows for a more consistent release of the same flavour throughout a vapour inhalation session, where the first flavour element and the second flavour element comprise the same flavour.

[0031] In general, it is also possible to control the alternating flavor release of several flavor elements having the same or similar melting or alternatively glass transition points by dispersing them at different positions along the aerosol and / or air flow path within the article.

[0032] For example, the first flavor element may be arranged in the tubular element and / or the spacing element of the aerosol product article, and the second flavor element may be arranged in the filter portion of the article. Alternatively or additionally, the first flavor element may be arranged in a first portion of the filter portion, and the second flavor element may be arranged in a second portion of the filter portion. Alternatively or additionally, the first flavor element may be arranged in the heatable portion of the article, and the second flavor element is preferably arranged longitudinally away from the heatable portion. Alternatively or additionally, the first flavor element may be arranged in a more central position, both longitudinally and radially, of the heatable portion, and the second flavor element may be arranged in a more central position from the center of the heatable portion. As a result, the first flavor element and the second flavor element are so arranged at different distances from the heating source. In an example where the heating source is, for example, an external heater of the device, the first carrier element melts faster than the same or similar carrier element of the second element. More generally, the relative positions of those flavor elements, and the selection of the material of the flavor carrier (i.e., melting point, or alternatively glass transition point) can be determined to provide the desired alternating release of the first and second flavors.

[0033] In a possible embodiment, several flavor elements having the same melting point or alternatively glass transition point may be dispersed along the entire aerosol and / or air flow path within the article, and it is preferred that the heatable portion, the tubular element, the spacing element, and / or the filter portion of the article comprise at least one flavor element.

[0034] According to one embodiment, the first flavor element and the second flavor element are positioned at substantially the same longitudinal position along the air and / or aerosol flow path of the article, and the melting point or alternatively the glass transition point of the flavor carrier of the first flavor element is different from the melting point or alternatively the glass transition point of the flavor carrier of the second flavor element.

[0035] It is also conceivable that the flavor elements are arranged at different circumferential positions at the same longitudinal position along the aerosol and / or air flow path within the article. In this case, the circumferential positions of the flavor elements are preferably distributed along the radius of the aerosol product article from the center to the outer surface of the article or the wrapper. At least one flavor element may be arranged at the center of the aerosol product article and at least another flavor element is arranged at a distance along the radius of the aerosol product article, with the circumferential extension direction being perpendicular to the aerosol and / or air flow path.

[0036] Flavor elements located further from the heating source of the electric steam inhalation device preferably melt later than flavor elements located closer to the heating source, and the aerosol product is inserted into the receiving chamber of the electric device to heat the heatable portion of the article. Therefore, flavor elements located further from the heating source of the electric steam inhalation device are preferably closer to the center of the aerosol product. Due to this, it is believed that flavor elements located closer to the heating source of the device reach their melting point or another glass transition point and release flavor earlier than flavor elements located further away.

[0037] Generally, the release of flavor from the flavor elements may be controllable by positioning along the circumference and / or length of the article. Alternatively or additionally, the flavor released from the flavor elements may be controllable by selecting the melting point or alternatively the glass transition point of the flavor carrier, which releases the flavor after a predetermined period of time after heating is initiated.

[0038] According to one embodiment, the first flavor element and the second flavor element contain the same or a common flavoring agent, which allows for tailoring and extending the taste from the article throughout the entire vaping session, and different carriers may have different melting points or alternatively different glass transition points and therefore different time periods before starting to release the flavoring agent.

[0039] According to one embodiment, the first flavor element and the second flavor element contain different flavorants. This configuration results in a change in the taste of the aerosol during just one vaping session, so that the consumer can enjoy new and pleasant vaping experiences with different flavor profiles. The change in the taste of the aerosol may progress gradually, depending on the time elapsed between the release of each flavor and the flavor payload (i.e. weight) in the carrier.

[0040] In general, the flavor carrier of the first and / or second flavor element may comprise vegetable fats and / or aliphatic ester type waxes. Such organic carriers are physically and chemically stable in contact with other constituent materials of the article during storage (e.g. tobacco, aerosol formers, additives), thereby ensuring flavor release, and are also known to be food grade. Furthermore, the third and / or fourth flavor element may also comprise organic and / or aliphatic ester type components. Furthermore, it is conceivable that some or some of the flavor elements comprise a combination of vegetable fats, aliphatic ester type waxes and other organic components. Alternatively or in addition, some or some of the flavor elements may also comprise inorganic components.

[0041] The flavor carrier may be selected from the group of palm wax, soy wax, carnauba wax, beeswax, cocoa butter, coconut fat, and combinations thereof. Accordingly, the aforementioned flavor carrier preferably comprises the following melting points: Name Melting point ℃ Palm wax 140 Soy wax 120~135 Carnauba Wax 82 Beeswax 63~64 Cocoa butter 34 Coconut Fat 24

[0042] The above list of various possible meltable substances for use as flavor carriers in the flavor elements is not intended to be limiting. It is also possible to use other meltable substances with melting points different from those mentioned above. In particular, the melting points of these flavor carriers may be modified or adjusted by partial hydrogenation or crosslinking.

[0043] According to one embodiment, the first and second flavor elements are each formed from different layers, which overlap or are superimposed. Preferably, both flavor elements are formed as tubes, the first flavor element being adhesively attached to the second flavor element. The flow path of the aerosol and / or air preferably passes through one tube formed from different layers. It is conceivable that the second flavor element completely covers the surface of the first flavor element. In this case, the surface of the first flavor element and the surface of the second flavor element preferably include the same dimensions.

[0044] Alternatively, the second flavour element may only partially cover the surface of the first flavour element, in which case the surface of the second flavour element may comprise recesses, where the first flavour element preferably remains uncovered.

[0045] In one embodiment, three or more flavor elements can be formed from different layers, preferably attached to one another.

[0046] According to one embodiment, the layers include at least one outer layer and at least one inner layer, the outer layer comprising a flavor carrier having a lower melting point or alternatively a lower glass transition point than the flavor carrier of the inner layer. The outer layer and the inner layer may comprise different flavor carriers. It is also possible to combine three or more layers made of different flavor carriers having different melting points or alternatively different glass transition points.

[0047] For example, the first outer layer may include an aliphatic ester type wax such as beeswax having a melting point of about 63°C, the second outer layer may include a vegetable wax such as carnauba wax having a melting point of about 82°C, the first inner layer may include another type of vegetable wax such as soy wax having a melting point of about 120°C, and the second inner layer may include another type of vegetable wax such as palm wax having a melting point of about 140°C.

[0048] According to another embodiment, the first flavour element and / or the second flavour element are formed from flavour encapsulating elements such as beads, microcapsules or films.

[0049] In one embodiment, some of the flavor elements included in the aerosol production are formed as beads, microcapsules or films. In this case, the manufacturing process of the aerosol product containing the flavor elements can be simple, since existing manufacturing machines can be used, and one additional processing step may be added. The processing step is preferably adapted to the type of flavor elements used in the aerosol product.

[0050] In another embodiment, it is conceivable that some of the flavor elements contained in the aerosol product are formed as different flavor encapsulation elements. Preferably, the aerosol product includes a combination of different flavor encapsulation elements. In this way, using different types of flavor elements can be advantageous, since their individual properties, such as shape and size, can be fully utilized to adjust the unique taste of the generated aerosol.

[0051] The flavour element formed as a bead preferably comprises at least a core. The core may comprise a meltable or non-meltable material, preferably a flavour carrier (i.e. the "core carrier"). Furthermore, the core may be covered with a coating. The coating of the bead may also comprise a meltable or non-meltable material, preferably another flavour carrier (i.e. the "coating" carrier). The beads are meltable and preferably start releasing flavour from the coating flavour carrier after a first predetermined time upon heating of the aerosol product article, in particular the heatable part of the article. After a second predetermined time, the flavour of the core carrier is released. For example, a coating carrier may be selected that has a lower melting point or alternatively a glass transition point than the core carrier. For example, the coating carrier is selected from materials with a melting point below 100°C and the core carrier is selected from materials with a melting point above 100°C. Under the effect of the increased temperature when the article is heated, the beads comprising the flavour carrier alternately deliver flavour to the aerosol and / or air flow path.

[0052] The flavour elements formed as microcapsules contain at least similar ingredients as the beads. The microcapsules preferably contain a core, surrounded by a coating. Thus, the core and / or the coating may contain two different or similar flavour carriers.

[0053] The flavor element may be a flavor capsule that includes a flavor core enclosed within a shell. The core is a liquid, gel, or powder configured to modify the flavor of the aerosol, and the core is encapsulated by the shell. In this case, the shell includes a flavor carrier and encapsulates the core. The core may include a flavor. The shell may also include a flavor different from or the same as the flavor in the core. The shell, including the carrier, is temperature sensitive and melts after a predetermined period of time to release the core. Different flavor elements with different flavor carriers relative to the shell can be inserted into the article, such as in different positions as described above, to provide alternating release of flavor liquid.

[0054] The flavour element formed as a film preferably comprises a layered structure. Thus, the film may comprise at least one layer comprising a flavour carrier. Furthermore, the film may comprise further layers with flavour carriers having the same or different melting points or alternatively the same or different glass transition points.

[0055] It is conceivable that the film, beads or microcapsules comprise a barrier material, such as a flavorless meltable material, such as those already mentioned for the flavor carrier. The barrier material does not contain flavors, and preferably does not contain flavorant molecules. Furthermore, the barrier material is preferably configured to isolate different or similar types of flavor carriers from each other or from the environment. For example, the barrier material may further improve the physical and chemical stability of the flavor elements. In this context, the environment means the surroundings of the flavor elements inside the article. The barrier material can be used to change the release time of the flavor. The barrier material may be selected so as not to affect the flavor of the aerosol (e.g., to be tasteless in transition).

[0056] According to one embodiment, the first and / or second flavor element is formed from a film coated on the non-meltable element of the article. The non-meltable element is preferably formed from paper, wood or synthetic material. In this context, the non-meltable element may be formed as a wrapper, tube or pellet. This non-meltable element is preferably a support element of the flavor carrier and can be inserted into the aerosol product article. In one example, the non-meltable element can be a tubular element configured to allow air flow direction to the flavor element.

[0057] According to another embodiment, at least one of the first or second flavour element is arranged within the aerosol substance containing portion, the filter, the cavity, or the tubular or spacing element.

[0058] The above objects are also achieved by a method for forming an aerosol in a steam inhalation session using an aerosol product article, the aerosol product article comprising an aerosol substance-containing portion, at least one filter spaced apart by a tubular element, at least one first flavour element comprising a first temperature sensitive carrier, and at least one second flavour element comprising a second temperature sensitive carrier, the first carrier comprising a first flavour and the second carrier comprising a second flavour, the method comprising heating the aerosol product article, the first flavour carrier releasing the first flavour during a first period of the steam inhalation session and the second flavour carrier releasing the second flavour during a second period of the steam inhalation session, the second period being delayed from the first period.

[0059] This method preferably provides an opportunity for long-lasting flavor delivery during a single vapor inhalation session. The flavor elements release flavor molecules out of a temperature sensitive flavor carrier. The released flavor molecules preferably tailor the generated aerosol with a particular aroma and / or taste.

[0060] Also preferably, the configuration of the first flavour element or flavour carrier to start releasing the first flavour after a first time period after heating the aerosol product article, in particular the heatable part of the article, can be achieved preferably by positioning the flavour element in at least a portion of the aerosol product article and / or by selection of a temperature sensitive material of the flavour carrier. In particular, the temperature sensitive material of the flavour carrier may be selected within the melting temperature (Tm) or transition temperature (Tg) of the material constituting the carrier. The selection of the appropriate temperature depends on the capacity of the carrier to release flavour.

[0061] The predetermined time periods for flavor release from the flavor carriers are preferably different from one another. In general, flavor release may be longer or shorter with different time periods when the flavor carrier comprises a higher or lower melting point, or alternatively a higher or lower glass transition temperature.

[0062] According to another embodiment, the flavour carriers release flavour at different melting points, the melting points being between 24°C and 140°C.

[0063] Additionally or alternatively, the method may include positioning at least a first and / or a second flavor element at different locations along the air and / or aerosol flow path within the article. Further, the positioning may include disposing the flavor elements at different circumferential locations at the same longitudinal position along the aerosol and / or air flow path within the article. However, it is preferred that the positioning step includes disposing at least one flavor element, preferably a plurality of flavor elements, within at least one portion of the aerosol product article.

[0064] In another embodiment, the method includes an enhancement step in which the multiple flavor elements include similar flavor or flavor molecules and different flavor carriers to enhance the taste of the generated aerosol.

[0065] In another embodiment, the method includes a modification step in which the multiple flavor elements include different flavors or flavorant molecules, and preferably different flavor carriers, to modify the taste of the generated aerosol.

[0066] Alternatively or in addition, the method may include a melting step in which a melting point or a predetermined temperature gradient is reached in at least a portion of the article and the flavor carrier begins to release flavor as it begins to melt.

[0067] Alternatively or in addition, the method may include a glass transition step in which a glass transition temperature or a predetermined temperature gradient is reached in at least a portion of the article and the flavor carrier begins to release flavor as the glass transition of the flavor carrier begins.

[0068] An aerosol product article for the method of forming an aerosol during a steam inhalation session may include any of the features described above.

[0069] Further advantages, objects and features of the present invention will be explained, by way of example only, in the following description with reference to the accompanying drawings in which similar elements of different embodiments may be provided with the same reference symbols, and in which: [Brief description of the drawings]

[0070] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of an aerosol product including a flavor element within a heatable portion. [Diagram 2] 1 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of an aerosol product including a flavor element within a heatable portion and a spacing element. FIG. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a bead formed from two flavor elements containing two different flavors. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a bead formed from two flavor elements, including one flavor and two different carriers. [Figure 5a] FIG. 2 is a schematic top view of a tube formed from two flavor elements containing two flavors. [Figure 5b] FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a tube formed from two flavor elements containing two flavors. [Figure 6a] FIG. 1 is a schematic top view of a tube formed from two flavor elements containing one flavor and two different carriers. [Figure 6b] FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a tube formed from two flavor elements containing one flavor and two different carriers. [Figure 7] 1 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of an aerosol product including a flavor element formed as a film within a tubular element; [Figure 8] 1 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of an aerosol product including flavor elements formed as films and beads. [Figure 9]FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of first and second time periods plotted on a timeline during a steam inhalation session. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0071] FIG. 1 shows a schematic side cross-sectional view of an aerosol product article 1 comprising flavour elements 6a, 6b in a heatable portion 2. The illustrated aerosol product article 1 comprises a heatable portion 2 comprising an aerosolizable material 3, a spacing or tubular element 5 and a filter portion 4. The spacing or tubular element 5 comprises a paper tube 5a and the filter portion 4 comprises at least one filter material 4a. The filter material 4a is preferably a common fibrous material suitable for filtering aerosols, for example cellulose. During a vaping session, the consumer inhales on the aerosol product article 1, generating an air and / or aerosol flow path ap, which flows from the heatable portion 2 to the filter portion 4. In the following, only the aerosol flow path ap is mentioned. This should not be understood as limiting, but is for the sake of simplicity of expression.

[0072] The aerosolizable material may include one or more of the following: reconstituted tobacco material, homogenized tobacco or processed tobacco mixtures (e.g., cast sheets, tobacco paper, extruded tobacco, laminated tobacco, and combinations thereof), tobacco substitutes, expanded tobacco, tobacco mousses or aggregates, tobacco extracts, tobacco lamellae, and tobacco cut fillers. The material may be processed portion-wise in the form of pleated sheets, flakes, strips, granules, pieces, powders, foams, gels, and combinations thereof. The aerosolizable material may include an aerosol-forming agent, such as glycerin-propylene-glycol (e.g., in an amount between 8-25% by weight of the material on a dry basis). The aerosolizable material may include additional ingredients, such as binders (e.g., CMC, starch, gums, etc.) and fillers (e.g., cellulose).

[0073] The aerosol product 1 is preferably insertable into a receiving chamber rc of an electric steam inhalation device (not shown). The receiving chamber rc is preferably connected to a heating source ht of a device suitable for heating a heatable portion 2 of the article 1. It should be noted that the heating source ht does not necessarily have to be external to the article, but may also be inserted into the heatable portion in the form of a resistive heating blade or pin, or an element (e.g. a susceptor) that can be heated by electromagnetic induction, etc.

[0074] The illustrated aerosol product 1 comprises four flavor elements 6a, 6b of two kinds in the heatable portion 2. The flavor elements 6a, 6b may be formed as beads, two first ones (shown in FIG. 2) comprising a first flavor carrier and two other second beads 8a (shown in FIG. 2) comprising a second flavor carrier. The two first flavor elements 6a comprising a first flavor carrier are preferably positioned in the aerosol flow path ap and are longitudinally spaced apart from each other. One first flavor element 6a comprising a first flavor carrier is preferably positioned in a first longitudinal position L1 of the article 1, and the other first flavor element 6a comprising a first flavor carrier is preferably positioned in a second longitudinal position L1 of the article 1. The two other flavor elements 6b comprising a second flavor carrier are preferably positioned in the same longitudinal position L2, but preferably in different circumferential positions of the article 1. In other words, the first flavour element 6a is further away from the heat source ht than the second flavour element 6b, the same element 6a being better protected from the heat coming from the heat source ht by the greater thickness of the aerosolizable material.

[0075] Figure 2 shows a schematic side cross-sectional view of an aerosol product article including flavour elements within a heatable portion and a spacing element. The illustrated aerosol product article 1 is similar to the article 1 shown in Figure 1. The difference is that the flavour elements 6a, 6b are located within two different portions of the article 1.

[0076] The first flavor elements 6a are preferably arranged at a distance from each other in the heatable part 2 of the article 1. The second flavor elements 6b are preferably arranged in the spacing or tubular element 5 of the article 1. The second flavor elements 6b are also preferably different from each other. All flavor elements 6a, 6b are arranged in the circumferential center of the aerosol product article 1, along the aerosol generation flow path ap. In a variation of this embodiment, the first flavor elements 6a in the heatable part may be positioned at a distance from each other in the circumferential direction (like 6b in FIG. 1), but at the same longitudinal position L1. The second flavor elements 6b may be positioned as shown in FIG. 2, or alternatively may be positioned at a distance from each other in the tubular element 5.

[0077] FIG. 3 shows a schematic cross-sectional side view of a multi-flavor bead 8a formed from two flavor elements 6a, 6b containing two different flavors f1, f2.

[0078] FIG. 4 shows a schematic cross-sectional side view of a single flavour bead 8a formed from two flavour elements 6a, 6b comprising one flavour f1 and two different carriers 7a, 7b.

[0079] In both figures, the second flavour element 6b is preferably a core, which is covered by the first flavour element 6a. The second flavour element 6b preferably comprises a diameter d1, for example between 0.1 and 1.5 mm. The first flavour element 6a is preferably overlaid on the core, the total diameter d2 of the bead 8a being, for example, within the range of 0.2 mm to 2.5 mm.

[0080] 3 shows an embodiment of beads 8a containing two different flavors f1, f2, where the first flavor f1 can be released by melting the first flavor element 6a and the second flavor f2 can be released by melting the second flavor element 6b. Due to this, the characteristics of the aerosol produced during the same inhalation session are changed. The consumer experiences aerosols of two different taste profiles during an inhalation session of the aerosol product 1.

[0081] 4 shows an embodiment of beads 8a containing one flavor f1, which can be released by melting the first flavor element 6a and the second flavor element 6b. This results in a sustained and extended taste and other properties of the aerosol produced during the same inhalation session. The consumer experiences a long-lasting flavor intensity during the entire inhalation session of the aerosol product 1.

[0082] It should be noted that the multi-flavored beads of FIG. 3 or the single-flavored beads of FIG. 4 can be arranged in the aerosol article configuration of FIG. 1 or FIG.

[0083] FIG. 5a shows a schematic top view of a tube 8c formed from two flavour elements 6a, 6b containing two flavours f1, f2.

[0084] Fig. 6a shows a schematic top view of a tube 8c formed from two flavour elements 6a, 6b containing one flavour f1 and two different carriers. The first flavour element 6a contains a first flavour carrier 7a and the second flavour element 6b contains a second flavour carrier 7b. The first and second flavour carriers 7a, 7b therefore contain two different flavours f1, f2.

[0085] The first flavor element 6a is formed as a rolled film 8c or layer, which is overlaid on the second flavor element 6b, which is also a film 8c or layer. The flavor elements 6a, 6b are thus adhesively attached to each other. It is also conceivable that the first flavor element 6a and / or the second flavor element 6b are overlaid on a support film or layer. Such a support film or layer may include heat-resistant (e.g. non-melting) properties.

[0086] The rolled film 8c comprising the first and second flavour elements 6a, 6b preferably forms a tube, which can be inserted into the article 1 and through which the aerosol can flow along an aerosol flow path through the rolled film 8c.

[0087] Figure 5b shows a schematic cross-sectional side view of the tube 8c shown in Figure 5a.Figure 6b shows a schematic cross-sectional side view of the tube 8c shown in Figure 6a.

[0088] Figures 5a and 5b relate to a rolled film 8c containing two different flavours f1, f2. With a rolled film 8c containing two different flavours f1, f2, as with flavour elements formed as beads, a change in taste profile can be achieved during one vaping session. Through the thickness of the flavour elements 6a, 6b and the melting point of the flavour carrier material, the release duration of the flavours f1, f2 can be adjusted.

[0089] A typical thickness t1 of the first flavor element 6a is preferably in the range of 0.1 mm to 1 mm. A typical thickness t2 of the second flavor element 6b is preferably in the range of 0.1 mm and 1 mm. In some embodiments, the thickness t1 of the first flavor element 6a and the thickness t2 of the second flavor element 6b are similar to each other.

[0090] It is also conceivable that the rolled film 8c or tube may be covered with further films or layers.

[0091] It should be noted that for all embodiments, the number of flavor elements, films, or layers is not limited and can vary from 1 to 10 or more (depending on the size and flavor loading required).

[0092] FIG. 7 shows a schematic cross-sectional side view of an aerosol product 1 including a rolled up film 8c as shown in FIGS. 6a and 6b.

[0093] FIG. 8 shows a schematic side cross-sectional view of an aerosol product article 1 comprising flavor elements 6a, 6b, 6c, 6d formed as a film and beads as described in FIG. 3, FIG. 4, FIG. 5a, FIG. 6a. The article 1 may also comprise a third flavor element 6c and a fourth flavor element 6d. In the illustrated embodiment, the first flavor element 6a comprises a first carrier 7a, which may be enriched with a first flavor. The first flavor element 6a is preferably formed as a bead or a microcapsule and is disposed within the heatable portion 2 of the article 1. The article 1 may also comprise a rolled film 8c comprising two further flavor elements 6b and 6d, the rolled film 8c being disposed within the spacing or tubular element 5 of the article 1. In the illustrated embodiment, the second and fourth flavor elements 6b, 6d comprise a similar flavor f2. It is also conceivable that the second and fourth flavor elements 6b, 6d comprise different flavors.

[0094] The filter portion 4 of the aerosol product 1 preferably comprises a third flavour element 6c. The third flavour element 6c may comprise a third flavour 3.

[0095] However, it is preferred that all flavour elements 6a, 6b, 6c, 6d may comprise different flavour carriers 7a, 7b, 7c, 7d.

[0096] In the embodiment of Figures 7 and 8, the tube 8c is positioned within or as part of the spacing element and tubular element 5. However, it is also possible to position the tube elsewhere, such as within the heatable portion 2 and / or the filter portion 4. Two or more tubes 8c may be present within the aerosol product article.

[0097] 9 shows a schematic diagram of a first period t1 and a second period t2 plotted on a timeline T during a vapor inhalation session. The vapor inhalation session begins with heating the aerosol product 1 and preferably lasts for at least 180 seconds. A consumer of the article 1 tastes the original tobacco flavor from the tobacco inside the article 1 before the first flavor f1 is released.

[0098] According to the timeline T from FIG. 1, a vaping session with the article 1 includes two periods t1, t2, which are delayed by a time delay td. The first period t1 preferably lasts at least 10 seconds, starts by heating the aerosol-producing article 1, and ends with the release of a first flavor f1. After the first period t1 ends, the first flavor f1 enriches the generated aerosol with additional flavor. The first flavor f1 is preferably released for at least 80 seconds during the vaping session.

[0099] The second time period t2 also starts by heating the aerosol product article 1 and lasts for at least 80 seconds until the second flavor f2 can be released. The release of the second flavor f2 may last for at least 100 seconds. The release of the second flavor f2 preferably starts during the release of the first flavor f1. However, the first time period t1 is preferably shorter than the second time period t2.

[0100] The time delay td preferably begins with the release of the first flavour f1 and ends with the release of the second flavour f2.

[0101] The applicant reserves the right to claim all features disclosed in the present application documents as essential features of the invention, insofar as they are novel in the light of the prior art, either individually or in combination. Furthermore, it should be noted that the figures describe features that may be advantageous individually. Those skilled in the art will immediately recognize that a particular feature disclosed in a figure may be advantageous without incorporating further features from this figure. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will recognize that advantages may develop from a combination of various features disclosed in one or various figures. [Explanation of symbols]

[0102] 1. Aerosol products 2. Aerosol-containing parts / heatable parts 3. Aerosol substances / aerosolizable heatable materials 4. Filter section 4a Filtering materials 5 Tubular or spacing elements 5a paper tube 6a First flavour element 6b Secondary flavour element 6c Tertiary flavour element 6d. The fourth flavour element 7a First temperature sensitive carrier 7b Second temperature sensitive carrier 7c Third temperature-sensitive carrier 7d Fourth temperature-sensitive carrier 8a Flavor Encapsulating Elements / Beads 8c Flavor encapsulation elements / wrapped film 9 hollow f1 First Flavor f2 Second Flavor f3 The third flavour ap Aerosol flow path d1 First diameter d2 Second diameter ht Heat source for electric steam inhalation device L1 First longitudinal position L2 Second longitudinal position Receiving chamber of rc electric steam inhaler t1 First period t2 Second period td Time Delay T Timeline of a steam inhalation session

Claims

1. An aerosol product (1), comprising: an aerosol substance-containing portion (2); at least one filter (4) spaced from said aerosol substance-containing portion (2) by a tubular or spacing element (5); At least one first flavor element (6a) comprising a first temperature-sensitive carrier (7a) containing a first flavor (f1); At least one second flavor element (6b) comprising a second temperature-sensitive carrier (7b) containing a second flavor (f2); Including, the first temperature-sensitive carrier (7a) is configured to begin releasing the first flavor (f1) after a first period of time after heating the aerosol product item (1) during a steam inhalation session; the second temperature-sensitive carrier (7b) is configured to initiate release of the second flavor (f2) after a second period of time after heating the aerosol product item (1) during the same steam inhalation session; The second period is delayed from the first period. An aerosol product (1), characterized in that:

2. 2. The aerosol-generating product (1) according to claim 1, The temperature sensitive carriers (7a, 7b) are made of a material having a melting point between 24°C and 140°C.

1. An aerosol-generating product (1).

3. 3. The aerosol product (1) according to claim 1 or 2, the first flavor element (6a) and the second flavor element (6b) are positioned at different positions (L1, L2) along the air and / or aerosol flow path (ap) of the article (1), The temperature-sensitive carrier (7a) of the first flavor element (6a) has substantially the same melting point, or alternatively the same glass transition temperature, as the temperature-sensitive carrier (7b) of the second flavor element (6b). An aerosol product (1), characterized in that:

4. 3. The aerosol product (1) according to claim 1 or 2, the first flavor element (6a) and the second flavor element (6b) are positioned at substantially the same longitudinal position along the air and / or aerosol flow path (ap) of the article (1), The melting point or alternatively the glass transition temperature of the temperature-sensitive carrier (7a) of the first flavor element (6a) is different from the melting point or alternatively the glass transition temperature of the temperature-sensitive carrier (7b) of the second flavor element (6b). An aerosol product (1), characterized in that:

5. 3. The aerosol product (1) according to claim 1 or 2, The first flavor element (6a) and the second flavor element (6b) contain the same or a common flavoring agent. An aerosol product (1), characterized in that:

6. 3. The aerosol product (1) according to claim 1 or 2, The first flavor element (6a) and the second flavor element (6b) comprise different flavorings. An aerosol product (1), characterized in that:

7. 7. The aerosol product (1) according to claim 6, The temperature-sensitive carrier of the first and / or second component comprises a vegetable fat and / or an aliphatic ester type wax. An aerosol product (1), characterized in that:

8. 8. The aerosol product (1) according to claim 7, The temperature sensitive carrier (7a, 7b) is selected from the group consisting of palm wax, soy wax, carnauba wax, beeswax, cocoa butter, coconut fat, and combinations thereof. An aerosol product (1), characterized in that:

9. 3. The aerosol product (1) according to claim 1 or 2, the first flavor element (6a) and the second flavor element (6b) are each formed from a different layer; The layers are overlapping An aerosol product (1), characterized in that:

10. 10. The aerosol product (1) according to claim 9, the layers include at least one outer layer and at least one inner layer; The outer layer comprises a temperature sensitive carrier that has a lower melting point or alternatively a lower glass transition temperature than the temperature sensitive carrier of the inner layer. An aerosol product (1), characterized in that:

11. 3. The aerosol product (1) according to claim 1 or 2, The first flavor element (6a) and / or the second flavor element (6b) are formed from flavor encapsulating elements such as beads (8a), microcapsules, or films (8c). An aerosol product (1), characterized in that:

12. 10. The aerosol product (1) according to claim 9, The first flavor element (6a) and / or the second flavor element (6b) are formed from a film coated onto a non-melting element of the article (1), in particular a paper wrapper or tube. An aerosol product (1), characterized in that:

13. 3. The aerosol product (1) according to claim 1 or 2, At least one of the first flavor element (6a) or the second flavor element (6b) is arranged in the aerosol substance-containing portion (2) of the article (1), in the filter (4), in the cavity (9), or in the tubular or spacing element (5). An aerosol product (1), characterized in that:

14. 1. A method for forming an aerosol in a steam inhalation session using an aerosol-producing article (1), comprising: The aerosol product (1) comprises: an aerosol substance-containing portion (2); at least one filter (4) spaced apart by tubular elements (5); at least one first flavor element (6a) comprising a first temperature-sensitive carrier (7a); at least one second flavor element (6b) comprising a second temperature-sensitive carrier; Including, the first temperature-sensitive carrier (7a) comprises a first flavor (f1); the second temperature-sensitive carrier (7b) comprises a second flavor (f2); Heating the aerosol product (1), wherein the first temperature-sensitive carrier (7a) releases the first flavor (f1) during a first period of the steam inhalation session, and the second temperature-sensitive carrier (7b) releases the second flavor (f2) during a second period of the steam inhalation session, the second period being delayed from the first period. A method characterized by:

15. 15. The method of claim 14, The temperature sensitive carriers (7a, b) release the flavors (f1, f2) at different melting points, or alternatively at different glass transition temperatures, preferably the melting points being between 24°C and 140°C. A method characterized by:

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