Heated tobacco cartridges

Abstract

A heated tobacco cartridge is provided that includes a support member that supports a tobacco filler accumulation. [Solution] The device comprises a tobacco filler accumulation containing tobacco material and generating an aerosol, a filter constituting the mouthpiece, and a cylindrical shape arranged between the filter and the tobacco filler accumulation, having a first end face on the tobacco filler accumulation side and a second end face on the filter side, and a peripheral surface portion formed between the first end face and the second end face, with a through hole extending from the first end face to the second end face, and the peripheral surface portion has a plurality of recesses or protrusions formed along the circumferential direction of the peripheral surface portion when viewed from the side with the first end face as the front, which suppresses movement of the tobacco filler accumulation and allows an airflow containing aerosol to circulate toward the filter, and is also equipped with a member that cools the aerosol generated from the tobacco filler accumulation, and a sheet-like packaging member that wraps around the tobacco filler accumulation, the filter, and the member that cools the aerosol, and is 40 to 60 mm long.

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] In recent years, in line with the trend toward smoking cessation, heated tobacco products have become popular, allowing people to enjoy tobacco by heating a cartridge containing tobacco components without using a flame and inhaling the vaporized tobacco components. A heated tobacco cartridge comprises a tobacco filler that is heated by inserting a heating element such as a blade of a heated tobacco product body, a filter provided at the mouthpiece, and a support member provided between the tobacco filler and the filter, and is formed by wrapping these components in a packaging material such as paper. Examples of such heated tobacco support members and heated tobacco cartridges include those listed in Patent Document 1.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0018] In the heated tobacco cartridge, the height of the convex portion may be 0.05 mm or more and 1 mm or less.

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

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

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

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

[0023] Furthermore, the letters "first" and "second" attached to each element are convenient symbols used to distinguish between elements and have no further meaning unless otherwise specified. In the drawings referred to in this embodiment, identical parts or parts having similar functions are designated by the same or similar symbols (symbols consisting of the numeral xxx followed by A, B, 1, 2, etc.), and repeated explanations may be omitted. Also, some components may be omitted from the drawings. In addition, if a person with ordinary knowledge in the field to which the present invention pertains would recognize such components, no special explanations will be provided.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0032] The heated tobacco cartridge 1 according to this embodiment is formed to have a diameter of 6.5 to 7.5 mm and a length of 40 to 60 mm. If the diameter of the heated tobacco cartridge 1 is set in the range of 6.5 to 7.5 mm, the diameter will be smaller than the insertion hole provided in the heated smoking device through which the heated tobacco cartridge is inserted, making it easier to insert the heated tobacco cartridge 1 into the heated smoking device. If the length of the heated tobacco cartridge 1 is set in the range of 40 to 60 mm, the length will be longer than the length of the insertion hole provided in the heated smoking device through which the heated tobacco cartridge is inserted, allowing the mouthpiece portion to be exposed from the heated smoking device even when the heated tobacco cartridge 1 is inserted into the smoking device, ensuring the length necessary for the smoker to smoke.

[0033] The tobacco filler aggregate 10 has a length of 10 to 25 mm. If the length of the tobacco filler aggregate 10 is set to 10 mm or more, the minimum length required for inserting the heating element 52 can be ensured. If the length of the tobacco filler aggregate 10 is set to 25 mm or less, a length sufficient for the heat of the heating element 52 to reach every corner of the tobacco filler 11 can be ensured. The heated tobacco cartridge 1 may have dimensions different from those described above, depending on the shape of the heated tobacco body.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0046] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the fluidity of the aerosol (airflow) from the tobacco filler aggregate 10 can be adjusted by adjusting the porosity between the peripheral surface portion 25 and the packaging member 40, as well as the porosity of the support member 20, which is the ratio of the cross-sectional area of ​​the through holes to the cross-sectional area of ​​the support member 20. Details of the porosity will be described later.

[0047] When the support member 20 of this embodiment is wrapped in a wrapping member 40, a plurality of voids 26 are provided between the peripheral surface portion 25 and the wrapping member 40, and these voids can serve as aerosol flow paths. The voids in the first end surface of the support member 20 are voids 26 and six holes 27, and the porosity ratio of the voids 26 to the holes 27 is preferably in the range of 1:1 to 1:12, for example. The porosity of the voids 26 is preferably in the range of 1% to 5% of the area surrounded by the wrapping member 40, and the porosity of the holes 27 is preferably in the range of 1% to 60%. If the voids 26 exceed the upper limit of the above range, the wrapping member 40 may be crushed when pressure is applied from the outside, making it impossible to maintain the shape of the cartridge as a whole, or the support function of the support member 20 may be impaired (for example, the tobacco filler aggregate may easily enter the voids 26 and the holes 27). Furthermore, if the gap 26 is below the lower limit of the above range, the flow of the aerosol may be impaired (for example, the flow path becomes narrower, the amount of aerosol flowing decreases, and therefore, more force is required for suction).

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

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

[0050] Second Embodiment In the first embodiment of the present invention, an example was shown in which the protrusions were arranged to extend in the longitudinal direction of the peripheral surface of the support member, but the present invention is not limited to this. In this embodiment, a support member different from the first embodiment will be described. Specifically, a support member in which the protrusions are arranged in a direction inclined with respect to the longitudinal direction will be described. Note that in this embodiment, descriptions of configurations similar to those of the first embodiment will be omitted as appropriate.

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

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

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

[0054] <Fourth embodiment> In this embodiment, a support member different from that in the first embodiment will be described. Specifically, a support member in which protrusions are provided in a wave-like shape from the first end face to the second end face will be described. Note that in this embodiment, descriptions of the same configuration as in the first embodiment will be omitted as appropriate.

[0055] FIG. 8(A) is a side view of the support member 20C. FIG. 8(B) is a front view of the support member 20C with the first end surface 21 facing forward. As shown in FIGS. 8(A) and 8(B), in the support member 20C, the protrusions 251C may be arranged in a wave-like shape in the longitudinal direction D1 from the first end surface 21 toward the second end surface 23. In this case, the aerosol flow path can be made longer than when the protrusions 251C extend linearly in the longitudinal direction D1. This also changes the cooling time of the aerosol. Therefore, by using this embodiment, the gripping unit (manufacturing device) of the assembly machine can more easily grip the support member 20C, enabling stable production of heated tobacco cartridges and enabling a change in the smoking experience when a smoker inhales the aerosol compared to when the protrusions 251C are arranged linearly.

[0056] Fifth Embodiment In this embodiment, a support member different from that of the first embodiment will be described. Specifically, a support member in which protrusions are provided along the circumferential direction will be described. Note that in this embodiment, descriptions of the same configuration as that of the first embodiment will be omitted as appropriate.

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

[0058] The number of protrusions 251D is controlled by the longitudinal length of the support member 20D. In this embodiment, the number of protrusions 251D that come into contact with the gripping portion of the assembly machine increases compared to when the protrusions 251 extend in the longitudinal direction D1. As the number of contacting protrusions 251D increases, a large frictional force is more likely to occur when the gripping portion of the assembly machine comes into contact with the support member 20D. Therefore, by using this embodiment, the gripping portion (manufacturing device) of the assembly machine can more easily grip the support member 20D, enabling stable production of heated tobacco cartridges.

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

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

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

[0062] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the convex portions 251E1 and the circumferential convex portions 251E2 intersect to form lattice-shaped grooves 251EV. The aerosol can partially accumulate in the grooves 251EV. This diversifies the aerosol flow paths and allows the aerosol to cool down over different times. Therefore, by using this embodiment, the gripping portion (manufacturing device) of the assembly machine can easily grip the support member 20E, enabling stable production of heated tobacco cartridges and enabling a change in the smoking experience when a smoker inhales aerosol compared to when the convex portions are arranged linearly.

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

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

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

[0066] Furthermore, the support member 20F may be provided in multiple regions. For example, as shown in Fig. 12(A), when the protrusions 251F are provided widely in the circumferential direction, the protrusions 251F may be provided in multiple regions in the longitudinal direction D1. Furthermore, as shown in Fig. 12(B), when the protrusions 251F are provided widely in the longitudinal direction D1, the protrusions 251F may be provided in multiple regions in the circumferential direction.

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

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

[0069] In the configuration of this embodiment, the protrusions 251F are also provided on the peripheral surface 25F, which makes it easier for frictional force to occur when the assembly machine grips the support member 20F, making it easier for the gripping parts of the assembly machine to grip the support member 20F, and enabling stable production of heated tobacco cartridges.

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

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

[0072] In this embodiment, the number of convex portions 251G provided is equal to the number of protrusions, which increases the frictional force between the support member 20G and the gripping portion of the assembly machine when manufacturing heated tobacco cartridges. This makes it easier for the gripping portion of the assembly machine to grip the support member 20G, allowing for stable manufacturing of heated tobacco cartridges.

[0073] In the present embodiment, adjacent protrusions 251G are arranged in the longitudinal direction D1, but this is not limiting. For example, another protrusion 251G adjacent to one protrusion 251G may be arranged in a direction intersecting the longitudinal direction D1.

[0074] FIG. 16(A) is a side view of the support member 20H. FIG. 16(B) is a front view of the first end surface 21 of the support member 20H. As shown in FIG. 16(A), the protrusions 251H may be arranged, for example, in a zigzag pattern obliquely relative to the longitudinal direction D1. In this case, as shown in FIG. 16(B), when viewed from the first end surface 21 side, adjacent protrusions 251H partially overlap. This makes the aerosol flow path longer than when the aerosol flows linearly. This results in a wider range of cooling times for the aerosol. This makes it easier for the assembly machine to grip, enabling stable production of heated tobacco cartridges and enabling changes to be made to the smoking experience when the smoker inhales the aerosol.

[0075] Ninth Embodiment In the first embodiment of the present invention, an example was shown in which the protrusions were arranged to extend in the longitudinal direction of the peripheral surface of the support member, but the present invention is not limited to this. In this embodiment, a support member different from the first embodiment will be described. Specifically, a support member having recesses extending in the longitudinal direction on the peripheral surface will be described. Note that in this embodiment, descriptions of configurations similar to those of the first embodiment will be omitted as appropriate.

[0076] Fig. 17(A) is a side view of support member 20J. Fig. 17(B) is a front view of support member 20J with first end face 21 facing forward. As shown in Figs. 17(A) and 17(B), in support member 20J, peripheral surface portion 25J has recesses 252. Recesses 252 are arranged linearly in longitudinal direction D1 from first end face 21 toward second end face 23.

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

[0078] In this embodiment, the support member 20J has the recess 252, which makes it easier for the tip of the gripping part of the assembly machine to catch on the support member 20J. As a result, the gripping part of the assembly machine can easily grip the support member 20J, allowing for stable production of heated tobacco cartridges.

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

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

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

[0082] In this embodiment, the support member 20K has multiple recesses 252K, which makes it easier for the tip of the gripping part of the assembly machine to catch on the recesses 252K of the support member 20K. As a result, the gripping part of the assembly machine can easily grip the support member 20K, allowing for stable production of heated tobacco cartridges.

[0083] In addition, in this embodiment, the aerosol remains in the recess 252K, changing the flow path of the aerosol, which can affect the comfort of the aerosol when the smoker inhales it.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0091] (Variation) Within the scope of the concept of the present invention, those skilled in the art may conceive of various modifications and alterations, and it is understood that these modifications and alterations also fall within the scope of the present invention. For example, those skilled in the art may add, delete, or modify components or add, omit, or change conditions of processing to the above-described embodiments as appropriate, and such modifications and alterations are also included within the scope of the present invention as long as they maintain the gist of the present invention. Furthermore, the configurations of the various embodiments may be combined as appropriate.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0100] Furthermore, in the sixth embodiment of the present invention, an example was shown in which the multiple protrusions 251 are arranged to intersect in the longitudinal direction D1 and the circumferential direction, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, some of the multiple protrusions 251E may extend in a direction inclined with respect to the longitudinal direction D1 or the circumferential direction. The protrusions 251E may intersect in the longitudinal direction D1 and the circumferential direction and have a wavy shape. This diversifies the aerosol flow path, allowing for changes in the smoking experience when the smoker inhales the aerosol.

[0101] Furthermore, although the embodiments of the present invention have shown examples in which the recesses or protrusions are provided with a certain regularity, this is not limiting. FIG. 22 is a side view of a support member 20P. As shown in FIG. 22, the support member 20P has protrusions 251P on the peripheral surface 25P. The protrusions 251P may be provided irregularly. In this case, the provision of the protrusions 251P generates friction between the gripping portion of the assembly machine and the protrusions, diversifies the aerosol flow path, and allows for changes in the smoking experience when a smoker inhales the aerosol. This makes it easier for the assembly machine to grip, enabling stable production of heated tobacco cartridges, and enabling different aerosol smoking experiences.

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

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

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

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

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

[0107] 1 cartridge, 5 heated tobacco body, 10 tobacco filler assembly, 11 tobacco filler, 20 support member, 21 first end face, 23 second end face, 25 peripheral surface portion, 26 gap, 27 hole portion, 30 filter, 40 packaging member, 50 insertion portion, 51 insertion portion, 52 heating element, 251 convex portion, 251a tip portion, 252 concave portion, 252a tip portion

Claims

1. an aerosol-generating tobacco filler mass containing tobacco material; A filter that constitutes the mouthpiece; a member disposed between the filter and the tobacco filler accumulation, the member being cylindrically shaped and having a first end face on the tobacco filler accumulation side and a second end face on the filter side, and a peripheral surface portion formed between the first end face and the second end face, the member having a through hole extending from the first end face to the second end face, the peripheral surface portion having a plurality of recesses or protrusions formed along the circumferential direction of the peripheral surface portion in a side view with the first end face as the front, the member suppressing movement of the tobacco filler accumulation, circulating an airflow containing aerosol generated from the tobacco filler accumulation toward the filter, and cooling the aerosol generated from the tobacco filler accumulation; a sheet-like packaging material that wraps the tobacco filler assembly, the filter, and the aerosol cooling member, The length is 40 to 60 mm. A cartridge for heated tobacco, characterized by:

2. The filter has a diameter of 6.5 mm to 7.5 mm. The heated tobacco cartridge according to claim 1 .

3. The filter comprises a cellulose acetate filter. The heated tobacco cartridge according to claim 1 .

4. The member for cooling the aerosol generated from the tobacco filler accumulation includes: The length along the central axis is 3.0 mm to 50 mm. The heated tobacco cartridge according to claim 1 .

5. The tobacco filler stack has a length of 10 to 25 mm. The heated tobacco cartridge according to claim 1 .

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