Paper forming a cavity between the tobacco rod and the filter segment

Abstract

The tobacco filter (4) comprises a longitudinal axis (3) extending in a length direction (2) and having at least one tobacco segment (10) comprising tobacco, at least one cooling tube (20), and a filter (4) comprising at least an upstream hollow filter segment (30) and a downstream filler-filled filter segment (40) adjacent to the hollow filter segment (30), the filter segments (30, 40) being bound together by at least one first bonded wrapper (50), and the cooling tube (20) and the filter (4) being bonded together by at least one first bonded wrapper (50), A heat-and-burn smoking structure (1) surrounded by a second bonding wrapper (60) that extends partially over the tobacco segment (10) to attach it to the filter (4), wherein a cooling tube (20) is formed between the filter (4) and the tobacco segment (10) by a first bonding wrapper (50) that surrounds the filter (4) and forms a cavity (20a) between the tobacco segment (10) and the filter (4) that extends along a certain length beyond the upstream hollow filter segment (30).

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a heat-and-burn smoking structure, such as a cigarette, having at least one tobacco segment, at least one cooling tube, and a filter including at least an upstream hollow filter segment and a downstream filler-filled filter segment adjacent to the hollow filter segment. The filter segment is attached by at least one first bonding wrapper. The cooling tube and filter are preferably surrounded by a second bonding wrapper. The cooling tube is formed between the filter and the tobacco segment by the first bonding wrapper, which surrounds the filter and forms a cavity between the tobacco segment and the filter. The present invention also relates to methods for producing one or two heat-and-burn smoking structures. [Background technology]

[0002] Smoking articles, such as cigarettes, are widespread consumer goods. Generally, cigarettes consist of at least two sections: a filter section and a tobacco section. The tobacco is often formed as a rod surrounded by a paper material to maintain the tobacco shape. Typically, the tobacco rod and filter are attached to each other and held together by tipping paper.

[0003] Substantially similar structures can be used for electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes). They arise from the need and opportunity for novel tobacco products that heat but do not burn tobacco. These heat-and-burn structures are used in combination with an electronic device that provides a heater. The heater, combined with the tobacco portion of the structure, generates smoke that is directed through a filter toward the consumer's mouth.

[0004] However, the need to cool the hot smoke requires that heat-and-no-burn structures be more complex than traditional combustible cigarettes. Thus, many heat-and-no-burn articles consist of a special filter element, a tubular element such as a paper tube, a tobacco section, and a wrapper that combines these sections. Furthermore, the tobacco requires special preparation for use with electronic heaters.

[0005] The complexity of heat-and-burn articles results in high production costs, as different components must be manufactured in different processes and combined in a further process. In addition, the production costs of heat-and-burn articles are much higher than those of conventional combustible smoking articles due to the special and / or additional elements, such as tubular elements or special filters. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is therefore an object of the present invention to reduce the production costs of heat-no-burn articles by providing heat-no-burn articles that are less complex. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The above-mentioned problems / shortcomings are solved / resolved by a heat-no-burn smoking structure having a longitudinal axis along which at least one tobacco segment extending lengthwise includes tobacco, at least one cooling tube, and a filter including at least two adjacent filter segments. The filter segments are bound together by at least one first bonding wrapper. The cooling tube and filter are surrounded by a second bonding wrapper or tipping paper that extends partially over the tobacco segment to attach the filter and cooling tube to the tobacco segment.

[0008] The filter segments preferably include an upstream hollow filter segment and a downstream packed filter segment adjacent to the hollow filter segment.

[0009] The above-mentioned problems are also solved by a heat-and-burn smoking structure having a longitudinal axis extending along at least one tobacco segment comprising tobacco, at least one cooling tube, and at least one filter segment, preferably two adjacent filter segments. The one or more filter segments are bound together by at least one first bonding wrapper. The cooling tube and filter are surrounded by a second bonding wrapper or tipping paper that extends partially over the tobacco segment to attach the filter and cooling tube to the tobacco segment. The filter segments are preferably an upstream hollow filter segment and a downstream packed filter segment adjacent the hollow filter segment. If the filter is a single filter segment, the filter segment is preferably a packed filter segment.

[0010] The tobacco segments are attached to a filter that is bound by a second binding paper, so that the tobacco segments are not bound by the first binding wrapper. The first binding paper is preferably adjacent to the tobacco segments.

[0011] The cooling tube is formed between the filter and the tobacco segment by a first bonding wrapper that surrounds the filter and forms a cavity between the tobacco segment and the filter that extends along a certain length beyond the filter, particularly beyond the upstream hollow filter segment.

[0012] The first combined wrapper and the filter and / or at least two filter segments preferably form a recessed dual filter with at least one recess in the filter and / or at least one of the filter segments. Ideally, the upstream hollow filter segment includes a tubular portion that forms an extension of a cooling tube. Such a structure with a cooling tube ensures that hot smoke is cooled before reaching the consumer's mouth. Furthermore, the material required to fabricate a separate paper tube can be saved, reducing overall manufacturing costs.

[0013] In a preferred embodiment, the first and / or second bonding wrappers comprise paper, carton and / or cardboard material so that the tube is protected from mechanical stress. In a preferred embodiment, the carton or cardboard material has a weight higher than 60 gsm, preferably higher than 75 gsm, preferably higher than 90 gsm, and / or a weight lower than 200 gsm, preferably lower than 150 gsm, preferably lower than 125 gsm.

[0014] The first bonding wrapper is preferably thicker and / or has a higher basis weight than the second bonding wrapper, which is also longer than the first bonding wrapper.

[0015] In a preferred embodiment, the first and / or second combined wrappers are labeled and / or printed to provide important information, for example, regarding the use or origin of the heat-and-no-combustion smoking structure.

[0016] It is further contemplated that the cooling tube comprises a paper material. Preferably, the tube comprises only one layer or a few layers, e.g., two, three, or more layers, of paper material. The paper material may comprise a paper or cardboard material to provide high rigidity and / or mechanical protection for the tube.

[0017] According to a preferred embodiment, the cooling tube extends along its longitudinal axis for a length of more than 15 mm, preferably more than 20 mm, preferably more than 25 mm, preferably more than 32 mm, and / or less than 45 mm, preferably less than 40 mm, preferably less than 37 mm. Ideally, the cooling tube extends along a length between 10 mm and 25 mm, in particular more than 20 mm. Preferably, the cooling tube extends along a length of more than 10 mm. In this way, the cooling distance through the cooling tube is sufficient to cool the hot smoke.

[0018] In a preferred embodiment, the length of the cooling tube is shorter than the length of the first combined wrapper (or respectively the first paper wrapper). The length of the cooling tube may be equal to the distance between the filter, in particular the upstream hollow filter segment and the tobacco segment. The cooling tube is then protected from mechanical stress by the material of the combined wrapper.

[0019] In a preferred embodiment, the cooling tube forms an empty cavity. In another embodiment, the cooling tube, preferably the cavity, is filled with a filler material such as fibers or inserts. The fibers may be made of natural materials, such as cellulose fibers, plant fibers, etc. It is also possible for the cavity to be filled with a heat-absorbing material. The cavity and / or the filled cavity advantageously cools the hot stream to a level that is comfortable for the consumer. The filled cavity may also stabilize the cooling tube.

[0020] In a further preferred embodiment, the length of the cavity is equal to or greater than the length of the filter. Preferably, the length of the cavity is equal to the length of the cooling tube. Ideally, the filter extends along a length greater than 8 mm, preferably greater than 10 mm, preferably greater than 12 mm, and / or less than 22 mm, preferably less than 20 mm, and preferably less than 17 mm. Preferably, the upstream hollow filter segment and / or the downstream packed filter segment extend along a length greater than 3 mm, preferably greater than 5 mm, preferably greater than 7 mm, and / or less than 12 mm, preferably less than 10 mm, and preferably less than 8 mm.

[0021] Ideally, the upstream hollow filter segment and / or downstream filler-filled filter segment extend along a length of between 6 mm and 9 mm. The combined length of the cooling tube and tubular section is then sufficient to cool the hot stream on its way through the heated non-combustion smoking structure.

[0022] In another preferred embodiment, the length of the cooling tube is equal to or greater than the length of the tobacco segment. Ideally, the length of the cooling tube is equal to or greater than the length of the tobacco segment to provide sufficient space for hot smoke within the cooling tube. The tobacco segment preferably extends along a length greater than 10 mm, preferably greater than 15 mm, preferably greater than 20 mm, and / or less than 40 mm, preferably less than 30 mm, preferably less than 25 mm. In one embodiment, the length of the filter is equal to the length of the cooling tube and equal to the length of the tobacco segment. For example, the same length for the three sections is approximately 20 mm.

[0023] In another embodiment, the length of the cavity and / or cooling tube is greater than the length of one filter segment and / or filter, and the combined length of the cooling tube and tubular portion is then sufficient to cool the hot stream on its way through the heated non-combustion smoking structure.

[0024] According to a preferred embodiment, the length of the second bonded wrapper is greater than the combined length of the filter and the cooling tube. Ideally, the length of the second bonded wrapper is less than or equal to the combined length of the tobacco segments, the filter, and the cooling tube. The length of the second bonded wrapper may be greater than the length of the first bonded wrapper. Preferably, the length of the second bonded wrapper is greater than 30 mm, preferably greater than 35 mm, preferably greater than 40 mm, and / or less than 60 mm, preferably less than 55 mm, preferably less than 50 mm.

[0025] It is further contemplated that the length of the first combined wrapper is equal to the combined length of the filter and the cooling tube and / or cavity. Preferably, the length of the first combined wrapper is greater than 25 mm, preferably greater than 30 mm, preferably greater than 35 mm, and / or less than 50 mm, preferably less than 45 mm, preferably less than 40 mm. Such a configuration ensures sufficient combined rigidity of the first and second wrappers to protect the heat-and-burn smoking structure.

[0026] In accordance with the present invention, the second bonding wrapper overlaps the first bonding wrapper. In a preferred embodiment, the second bonding wrapper overlaps the first bonding wrapper along at least a portion of the length of the first bonding wrapper. Ideally, the second bonding wrapper completely overlaps the first bonding wrapper. This configuration ensures sufficient combined rigidity of the first and second wrappers to protect the heat-and-no-combustion smoking structure.

[0027] In a preferred embodiment, at least one ventilation hole, preferably several ventilation holes, are provided in the cooling tube. The ventilation holes are arranged in a row, and in particular, the row is ideally arranged circumferentially around the cooling tube. The cooling tube, or rather the smoking structure, may be provided with one or more, for example two or three, rows of ventilation holes, where the rows may be arranged adjacent to each other. One or more rows of ventilation holes may be arranged longitudinally on the cooling tube, or rather the smoking structure. Ideally, the ventilation holes pass through the first and / or second bonding wrappers. Preferably, the ventilation holes form a fluid connection from the outside of the smoking structure to the internal compartment of the cooling tube. The ventilation holes provide a supply of air or gas to assist in cooling the hot stream. In a preferred embodiment, the ventilation holes may be produced by laser machining through the material of the first and second bonding wrappers.

[0028] In a preferred embodiment, the filler filter segment comprises acetate or paper tow. The filler filter segment is generally a tow of fibers or filaments gathered and formed into a rod. Preferably, the hollow filter segment also comprises acetate. The acetate may comprise cellulose acetate, particularly cellulose acetate fibers. Ideally, the acetate of the hollow filter segment has a higher density than the acetate of the filler filter segment to ensure that the high-temperature flow from the tobacco segment is directed primarily through the tubular portion of the hollow filter segment toward the filler filter segment. The acetate of the hollow filter segment may have a lower or equal density than the acetate of the filler filter segment. At least one acetate fiber, particularly cellulose acetate fiber, in the filter segment provides good smoke filtration. In a possible alternative, the filter segment comprises paper tow.

[0029] In a preferred embodiment, the tobacco segment comprises reconstituted tobacco. The tobacco segment may also comprise strands of tobacco sheet, whole leaf tobacco, and / or shred tobacco. The tobacco sheet strands and / or shred tobacco particles can be oriented or randomly oriented. The tobacco sheet strands, whole leaf tobacco, and / or shred tobacco are preferably surrounded by a sheet comprising reconstituted tobacco. The sheet may be larger than the diameter of the tobacco segment. Ideally, the tobacco segment is made entirely from reconstituted tobacco. The use of reconstituted tobacco provides better control of the physical properties of the tobacco segment and reduces production costs.

[0030] In a preferred embodiment, the tobacco comprises strands and / or folded sheets of tobacco powder and / or tobacco sheet, preferably comprising more than 5% by weight of an aerosol-generating agent. Preferably, the tobacco comprises more than 5% by weight of glycerin, preferably more than 8% by weight of glycerin, preferably more than 10% by weight of glycerin. Such an amount of glycerin helps to keep the tobacco moist and moldable.

[0031] Suitable aerosol generating agents include polyols (such as sorbitol, glycerol, and glycols such as propylene glycol or triethylene glycol), non-polyols (such as monohydric alcohols, acids such as lactic acid, glycerol derivatives, esters such as triacetin, triethylene glycol diacetate, triethyl citrate, etc.), and in some embodiments, the aerosol generating agent may be glycerol, propylene glycol, or a mixture of glycerol and propylene glycol.

[0032] In a preferred embodiment, the cooling tube comprises a tubular reinforcing material. The tubular reinforcing material preferably comprises a material that is particularly stable against moisture, aerosols, and / or vapes. It is conceivable that the tubular reinforcing material comprises cardboard. In one embodiment, the tubular reinforcing material is preferably provided as a tubular section for attachment to a filter, preferably a hollow filter segment. It is also conceivable that the tubular reinforcing material is provided as an additional wrapping. In this case, the reinforcing material can be wrapped in a tubular shape and attached to the filter, preferably a hollow filter segment, by a first bonding wrapper.

[0033] The object is also to provide a method for producing a heat-and-no-combustion smoking structure, comprising: - providing a tobacco segment and at least one filter formed from at least two filter segments; - wrapping the first filter with at least one first combined wrapper to obtain a first combined filter, the cooling tube being formed as a cavity surrounded by the first combined wrapper, the length of the cooling tube being longer than the length of the first filter, thereby creating a cavity on at least one side of the combined filter; - wrapping at least a portion of the first wrapped filter and tobacco segment with a second bonding wrapper such that the cavity is located between the filter and the tobacco segment; This is achieved by the method.

[0034] In a first step, the tobacco segment is provided with at least a first filter, preferably formed from at least two filter segments, in particular two different filter segments, in particular at least one of an upstream hollow filter segment and a downstream filler material filter segment, ideally positioned adjacent to the hollow filter segment so that smoke can be directed through the hollow filter segment and subsequently through the filler material filter segment.

[0035] The next step is to wrap the upstream hollow filter segment and the downstream filler-filled filter segment with a first bonding wrapper to produce a first bonded filter and cooling tube. Ideally, the hollow filter segment is positioned between the cooling tube and the filler-filled filter segment. The length of the cooling tube is preferably longer than the length of the first filter so as to create a cooling cavity in the form of the cooling tube on at least one side of the bonded filter. The filter segments are bonded by the first wrapper, and in particular, the cooling cavity in the form of the cooling tube is preferably formed by the first wrapper. Ideally, the cooling tube and the first bonded filter are surrounded by a second bonding wrapper or tipping paper to provide good protection against mechanical stress.

[0036] The next step involves wrapping at least a portion of the first (wrapped) filter and tobacco segment with a second bonding wrapper so that the cavity, particularly the cooling tube, is located between the filter and the tobacco segment, and in some cases, more particularly, between the hollow filter segment and the tobacco segment. The tobacco segment may be completely wrapped with the second bonding wrapper. The second bonding wrapper provides a good attachment between the first wrapped filter, the cooling tube, and the tobacco segment.

[0037] In a preferred embodiment, the method includes the additional step of bonding the first and second filters with a first bonding wrapper to obtain a double-length bonded filter. A double-length tube is formed between the first filter and the second filter. Moreover, the length of the double-length tube is equal to or greater than the combined length of the first filter and the second filter so as to form a cooling cavity between the first filter and the second filter. Fabricating a double-length bonded filter reduces the fabrication steps and therefore reduces fabrication costs.

[0038] In a further preferred embodiment, the method includes the additional step of cutting the double-length bundled filter to create first and second bundled filters with first and second cooling tubes, which allow two smoking structures to be produced.

[0039] In a further preferred embodiment, the method includes the additional step of bundling the double-length filled filter segment and the two hollow filter segments with a double-length first combined wrapper to obtain a double-length combined filter. The length of the double-length first combined wrapper ideally extends the combined length of the double-length filled filter segment and the two hollow filter segments, particularly to obtain two cavities forming the cooling tubes formed by the double-length first combined wrapper. At least one of the two hollow filter segments may be positioned at, particularly adjacent to, the end of the double-length filled filter segment. At least one of the two cooling tubes may be positioned particularly adjacent to one of the hollow filter segments. At least one of the hollow filter segments may be positioned between the cooling tube and the double-length first filter.

[0040] In a further preferred embodiment, the method includes the additional step of cutting the double-length bundled filter to create first and second bundled filters. The double-length bundled filter is preferably cut in the middle of the double-length filler-filled filter segment to form the first and second bundled filters. The length of the first bundled filter may be equal to the length of the second bundled filter. The first and second bundled filters allow two smoking structures to be produced.

[0041] In a preferred embodiment, the first and / or second binding wrappers are formed with the properties as described above.

[0042] The object is also to provide a method for producing a heat-and-no-combustion smoking structure, comprising: - providing a tobacco segment and at least a first and a second attached filter as described above; - placing a tobacco segment between first and second wrapped filters, the cooling tube of each wrapped filter being positioned between the tobacco segment and the filter segment of each wrapped filter; - bonding each of the first and second bonded filters and at least two separate portions of the tobacco segment with two separate second bonded wrappers, or bonding the tobacco segment and the first and second bonded filters with one common bonded wrapper to create a double-length smoking structure, wherein a cavity in each bonded filter is created between each filter and the tobacco segment; - cutting the double length smoking structure at the center of the tobacco segment to create two smoking structures; This is achieved by the method.

[0043] The tobacco segment is preferably sized to fit two heat-and-no-burn smoking structures, with the cut for the double-length smoking structure being made in the middle of the tobacco segment.

[0044] Ideally, a first bonding wrapper as described above is used to bond the first and / or second bonded filters. The method of manufacturing the two smoking structures allows for the two smoking structures to be manufactured on one manufacturing line, or more precisely, in one manufacturing process, so that manufacturing costs are reduced compared to separate manufacturing of two individual smoking structures.

[0045] 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 in different embodiments may be designated by the same reference numerals, and in which: [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0046] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram of a smoking structure and its components. [Figure 2] 1 is a chart of a method for producing a heat-and-no-combustion smoking structure. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a double-length filter with double-length cooling tubes. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a double-length filter having double-length filled filter segments. [Figure 5a] 1 is a cross-sectional view of a double-length smoking structure having a double-length filler-filled filter segment. [Figure 5b] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a double-length smoking structure having double-length tobacco segments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0047] 1 shows a smoking structure 1 having a tobacco segment 10, a cooling tube 20, an upstream hollow filter segment 30, a downstream filler material filter segment 40, a first bonded wrapper 50, and a second bonded wrapper 60. Arranged along a longitudinal axis 3 are the tobacco segment 10, the cooling tube 20, the hollow filter segment 30, and the filler material filter segment. Ideally, these components are arranged adjacent to one another, particularly in the aforementioned order, and particularly one behind the other.

[0048] The first bonded wrapper 50 is preferably positioned to surround the hollow filter segment 30 and the filler-filled filter segment 40 to form a bonded filter. The bonded first bonded wrapper 50 forms a cavity 20a such that a cooling tube is formed, the cooling tube being defined by the cavity 20a and the surrounding first bonded wrapper 50. The hollow filter segment 30 includes a tubular portion 31, which is ideally positioned adjacent to the cooling tube 20, and in particular, the tubular portion 31 defines an extension of the cooling tube 20.

[0049] The second bonding wrapper 60 may be positioned to at least partially, preferably completely, overlap the first bonding wrapper 50. Moreover, the second bonding wrapper 60 is preferably positioned to surround at least a portion of the bonded filter and tobacco segment 10, where the second bonding wrapper 60 preferably attaches the tobacco segment 10 and the bonded filter. A cooling tube 20 in the form of a cavity 20a may be positioned between the tobacco segment 10 and the hollow filter segment 30 or the filler segment 40. The filler material filter segment 40 is preferably positioned adjacent to the hollow filter segment 30, particularly at the proximal end of the smoking structure 1, where the hollow filter segment 30 is ideally positioned between the cooling tube 20 and the filler material filter segment 40.

[0050] All components, particularly the tobacco segments 10, cooling tubes 20, hollow filter segments 30, and filler material filter segments 40, are concentrically arranged about the longitudinal axis 3. Ideally, a first bonded wrapper 50 circumferentially surrounds the cooling tubes 20, hollow filter segments 30, and filler material filter segments 40 to form a bonded filter. A second bonded wrapper 60 may circumferentially surround at least a portion of the bonded filter and tobacco segments 10.

[0051] The first 50 and / or second combined wrapper 60 comprises paper, carton, cardboard material and / or aluminum foil, cellulose acetate film and preferably has a weight greater than 60 gsm, preferably greater than 75 gsm, preferably greater than 90 gsm, and / or preferably less than 200 gsm, preferably less than 150 gsm, preferably less than 125 gsm.

[0052] The filled filter segment 30 and / or the hollow filter segment 40 may comprise acetate fibers, preferably cellulose acetate fibers. Ideally, the acetate of the filled filter segment 40 has a lower density than the acetate of the hollow filter segment 30.

[0053] The cavity 20a may be filled with a filler material such as fibers, preferably made of natural materials, e.g. cellulose fibers, plant fibers, etc. It may also be possible to fill the cavity 20a with a heat absorbing material.

[0054] The tobacco segment 10 may comprise reconstituted tobacco, preferably randomly oriented strands of tobacco sheet, whole leaf tobacco and / or shred tobacco. The tobacco segment comprises tobacco powder and / or at least one, preferably a plurality of sheets, which ideally comprise reconstituted tobacco and / or greater than 5% by weight glycerin, preferably greater than 8% by weight glycerin, preferably greater than 10% by weight glycerin.

[0055] Preferably, the length 100 of the tobacco segment, the length 70 of the cooling tube, particularly in the form of the cavity 20a, the length 91 of the hollow filter segment, the length 40 of the filler material filter segment, the length 90 of the filter comprising one or both filter segments, the length 110 of the wrapped filter comprising the filter and the cooling tube 20, the length 80 of the first combined wrapper, the length 120 of the second combined wrapper, and the length 130 of the smoking structure extend longitudinally. The length 90 of the filter may define the combined length of the length 91 of the hollow filter segment and the length 40 of the filler material filter segment. Furthermore, the length 110 of the wrapped filter and / or the length 80 of the first combined wrapper define the combined length of the length 91 of the hollow filter segment, the length 40 of the filler material filter segment, and the length 70 of the cooling tube. The length of the cooling tube may be greater than the length of the cavity 20a positioned within the cooling tube.

[0056] The tobacco segment length 100 may be greater than, less than, or equal to the cooling tube length 70. Ideally, the tobacco segment length 100 is equal to the cooling tube length 70. The tobacco segment length 100 may be greater than, less than, or equal to the filter length 90. Preferably, the tobacco segment length 100 is less than the filter length 90. The tobacco segment length 100 may be greater than, less than, or equal to the hollow length 91 or the filler filter segment length 92. Ideally, the tobacco segment length 100 is greater than the hollow length 91 or the filler filter segment length 92. The tobacco segment length 100 may be greater than, less than, or equal to the wrapped filter length 110 and / or the first bonded wrapper length 80. Ideally, the tobacco segment length 100 is less than the wrapped filter length 110 and / or the first bonded wrapper length 80.

[0057] The cooling tube length 70 and / or the length of the cavity 20a may be greater than, less than, or equal to the filter length 90. Ideally, the cooling tube length 70 and / or the length of the cavity 20a is greater than the filter length 90. The cooling tube length 70 and / or the length of the cavity 20a may be greater than, less than, or equal to the hollow length 91 and / or the packed filter segment length 92. Ideally, the cooling tube length 70 and / or the length of the cavity 20a is less than the hollow length 91 and / or the packed filter segment length 92. The cooling tube length 70 and / or the length of the cavity 20a may also be less than the first 80 and / or second combined wrapper 80, particularly less than the second combined wrapper length 120.

[0058] The length 91 of the hollow filter segment may be greater than, less than, or equal to the length 92 of the filler material filter segment. Ideally, the length 91 of the hollow filter segment is less than the length 92 of the filler material filter segment. Furthermore, the length 130 of the smoking structure may be greater than or equal to the length 120 of the second bonding wrapper, wherein the length 80 of the first bonding wrapper may be less than or equal to the length 120 of the second bonding wrapper.

[0059] The length of the tobacco segment is preferably greater than 10 mm, preferably greater than 15 mm, preferably greater than 20 mm, and / or less than 40 mm, preferably less than 30 mm, and preferably less than 25 mm. The length 70 of the cooling tube may be greater than 15 mm, preferably greater than 25 mm, preferably greater than 32 mm, and / or less than 45 mm, preferably less than 40 mm, and preferably less than 37 mm. The length 70 of the cooling tube is between 10 mm and 25 mm, and ideally greater than 20 mm, preferably greater than 10 mm. The length 90 of the filter is ideally greater than 8 mm, preferably greater than 10 mm, preferably greater than 12 mm, and / or less than 22 mm, preferably less than 20 mm, and preferably less than 17 mm.

[0060] Furthermore, the length 91 of the hollow filter segment and / or the length 92 of the filled filter segment is greater than 3 mm, preferably greater than 5 mm, preferably greater than 7 mm, and / or less than 12 mm, preferably less than 10 mm, and preferably less than 8 mm. Ideally, the length 80 of the first bonded wrapper and / or the length 110 of the attached filter is greater than 25 mm, preferably greater than 30 mm, preferably greater than 35 mm, and / or less than 50 mm, preferably less than 45 mm, and preferably less than 40 mm. The length 120 of the second bonded wrapper and / or the length of the smoking structure is greater than 30 mm, preferably greater than 35 mm, preferably greater than 40 mm, and / or less than 60 mm, preferably less than 55 mm, and preferably less than 50 mm. Ideally, the length of the smoking structure is greater than 35 mm, preferably greater than 45 mm, preferably greater than 50 mm, and / or less than 70 mm, preferably less than 65 mm, and preferably less than 60 mm.

[0061] The smoking structure preferably comprises ventilation holes 5 arranged in the cooling tube 70. The ventilation holes 5 are arranged in a row, and in particular the row is ideally arranged circumferentially around the cooling tube 70. The row of ventilation holes 5 may be arranged perpendicular to the longitudinal direction 2. The smoking structure may also comprise more than one row of ventilation holes 5, for example two or three rows, which may be arranged adjacent to each other. Ideally the ventilation holes 5 extend radially through the first and / or second combined wrappers, in particular perpendicular to the longitudinal direction 2.

[0062] 2 shows a diagram illustrating a method 200 for manufacturing a heat-and-burn smoking structure 1. In a first step 201, at least one, and preferably two, tobacco segments 10 are provided, where the tobacco segments 10 may be formed as described above. In a further step 202, at least one first filter is formed, where the first filter ideally comprises at least two, and preferably exactly two, filter segments. The first filter preferably comprises a hollow filter segment 30 and a filler-filled filter segment 40.

[0063] In the next step 203, the first filter is wrapped with a first bonded wrapper to obtain a first bonded filter, wherein the cooling tube may be formed as a cavity 20a surrounded by the first bonded wrapper 50. The cooling tube length 70 is longer than the first filter length 90 to create the cavity 20a on at least one side of the first bonded filter. The first bonded wrapper 50, cooling tube 20, hollow filter segment 30, and / or filled filter segment may be arranged and / or formed as described above. Ideally, the first bonded wrapper has a specific gravity of 60 gsm, preferably greater than 75 gsm, preferably greater than 90 gsm, and / or preferably less than 200 gsm, preferably less than 150 gsm, and preferably less than 125 gsm.

[0064] Step 203 may include the intermediate step 203a of bundling the first and second filters with a double-length cooling tube to obtain a double-length bonded filter. The double-length tube may be positioned between the first and second filters, where ideally the double-length cooling tube is positioned between two hollow filter segments 30. Furthermore, the length of the double-length tube is preferably longer than the combined length of the first and second filters. An optional further intermediate step 203b provides for cutting the double-length bonded filter to create the first and second bonded filters. In this case, the second tobacco segment may be provided in step 201b.

[0065] In alternative step 302, a double-length filled filter segment and at least two hollow filter segments 30 are provided, which are then, in a further alternative step 303, bundled together with a double-length first combined wrapper to obtain a double-length bundled filter. At least one of the hollow filter segments is positioned adjacent to an end of the double-length filled filter segment, and ideally, such a double-length filled filter segment is positioned between the hollow filter segments 30. The length of the double-length first combined wrapper may be longer than the combined length of the double-length filled filter segment and the two hollow filter segments, such that the double-length first combined wrapper extends beyond the hollow filter segment 30 to form two cavities. The cavities may be surrounded by the double-length first combined wrapper and / or may form cooling tubes 20. At least one of the two cooling tubes is positioned adjacent to one of the hollow filter segments 30. At least one of the hollow filter segments may be positioned between the cooling tube and the double-length first filter.

[0066] In a further alternative step 303b, the double length bundled filter is cut to create first and second bundled filters. Preferably, the double length bundled filter is cut in the middle of the double length filled filter segment to form the first and second bundled filters.

[0067] In a further step 204, the first and / or second bonded filters are each bonded together with at least a portion of the tobacco segment 10 by a second bonded wrapper 60 such that the cavity 20a, or rather the cooling tube 20, is positioned between the filter and the tobacco segment. The first bonded wrapper 50, the cooling tube 20, the hollow filter segment 30, and / or the filler-filled filter segment 40 may be arranged as described above and / or formed as described above.

[0068] FIG. 3 shows a cross-sectional view of a double-length filter 4 having a double-length cooling tube 20. The illustrated double-length filter 4 structure includes at least one double-length cooling tube 20 or two cooling tubes 20 attached to each other, two hollow filter segments 30, and two filled filter segments 40. The double-length filter 4 structure is preferably attached to at least one double-length first combined wrapper 50. It is also contemplated that more than one wrapping may be used in the double-length filter 4 structure. Each hollow filter segment 30 preferably includes a tubular portion 31. The first filter 4 structure is connected to the second filter 4 structure at a central portion M. The illustrated double-length filter 4 structure may include a double-length cooling tube 20 that can be split into two separate cooling tubes 20 at the central portion M. The first separate cooling tube 20 is preferably part of the double-length cooling tube 20 and is connected to the first filter 4 structure. The second separated cooling tube 20 is preferably another section of the double-length cooling tube 20 connected to the second filter 4 structure. Both sections of the double-length cooling tube 20 are preferably equal to each other. Preferably, the two equal separated filter 4 structures can be separated by cutting the double-length filter 4 structure at the center M, particularly at the center M of the double-length cooling tube 20.

[0069] FIG. 4 shows a cross-sectional view of a double-length filter 4 having a double-length packed filter segment 40. This embodiment of the double-length filter 4 structure is substantially similar to the embodiment shown in FIG. 3. The illustrated double-length filter 4 structure preferably includes at least a double-length packed filter segment 40 or two packed filter segments 40 attached to each other, two hollow filter segments 30 with tubular components 31, and two cooling tubes 20. The double-length filter 4 structure further includes at least one double-length first bonding wrapper 50. Similar to the double-length filter 4 structure shown in FIG. 3, the filter 4 structure can also include more than two wrappings, preferably two wrappings. This is particularly advantageous for the stability of the entire double-length filter 4 structure.

[0070] The double-length filter 4 structure is preferably divisible by cutting it at the middle M. The central portion M of the double-length filter 4 structure preferably corresponds to the central portion M of the double-length filler-filled filter segment 40. The double-length filler-filled filter segment 40 is also preferably divisible into two parts. A first filler-filled filter segment 40 that is part of the double-length filler-filled filter segment 40 is preferably connected to the first hollow filter segment 40 and the first cooling tube 20. A second filler-filled filter segment 40 that is part of the double-length filler-filled filter segment 40 is preferably connected to the second hollow filter segment 40 and the second cooling tube 20. Both parts of the double-length filler-filled filter segment 40 are preferably equal to each other. The double length filter 4 structure shown in Figures 3 and 4 is preferably attachable to several types of smoking structures 1, preferably heat-and-no-combustion smoking structures.

[0071] FIG. 5a shows a cross-sectional view of a double-length smoking structure 1 having a double-length filler filter segment 40. The double-length smoking structure 1 preferably comprises at least two filters 4 and two tobacco segments 10. Each of the two filters 4 preferably comprises at least a cooling tube 20, a hollow filter segment 30, and a filler filter segment 40. The hollow filter segment 30 preferably comprises a tubular portion 31. The entire double-length smoking structure 1 is preferably wrapped in at least a double-length first bonded wrapper 50 and a double-length second bonded wrapper 60. Because the tobacco segments have their own wrappers before being placed against the double-length filter structure, the second bonded wrapper 60 may extend partially over the tobacco segments 10 (without extending over the free ends of the tobacco segments). It is also conceivable to provide more than two wrappers for this structure 1.

[0072] Preferably, the double length filler filter segment 40 or the entire filter 4 corresponds to the embodiment shown in Figure 4. Preferably, the double length filler filter segment 40 is divisible at the central portion M of the double length smoking structure 1 or at the central portion M of the double length filler filter segment 40. In particular, the central portion M of the double length smoking structure 1 corresponds to the central portion M of the double length filler filter segment 40.

[0073] 5b shows a cross-sectional view of a double-length smoking structure 1 having a double-length tobacco segment 10. The double-length smoking structure 1 preferably comprises at least two filters 4 and double-length tobacco segments 10. The filter 4 preferably comprises at least one cooling tube 20, a hollow filter segment 30, and a filler-filled filter segment 40. The hollow filter segment 30 preferably comprises a tubular portion 31. The entire double-length smoking structure 1 is preferably bound together by at least two first bonding wrappers 50 and a double-length second bonding wrapper 60. The double-length tobacco segment 10 is preferably divisible at a central portion M of the double-length smoking structure 1 or at a central portion M of the double-length tobacco segment 10. In particular, the central portion M of the double-length smoking structure 1 corresponds to the central portion M of the double-length tobacco segment 10. In an alternative embodiment, the second bonding wrapper 60 may be formed from two separate second bonding wrappers that separately bond the filter 4 to the double-length tobacco segment 10. In this case, the two second combined wrappers 60 do not overlap or extend to the center M of the double length tobacco segment 10 .

[0074] The double-length tobacco segment 10 is preferably divided into two portions by cutting. The first portion of the double-length tobacco segment 10 is preferably attached to the first filter 4. The second portion of the double-length tobacco segment 10 is preferably attached to the second filter 4.

[0075] Applicant reserves the right to claim all features disclosed herein as essential features of the invention to the extent that they are novel, individually or in combination, in view of the prior art. Furthermore, it should be noted that the Figures describe features that may be advantageous individually. Those skilled in the art will readily recognize that a particular feature disclosed in a Figure may be advantageous without incorporating other features from that 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]

[0076] 1. Smoking Structure 2 Lengthwise 3 Longitudinal Axis 5. Ventilation holes 10 Tobacco Segment 20 Cooling tube 20a Cavity in cooling tube 30 hollow filter segments 31 Tubular portion of hollow filter segment 40 Filled Filter Segments 50 First Combined Wrapper 60 Secondary Combined Wrapper 70 Cooling tube length 80 Length of the first combined wrapper 90 filter length 100 tobacco segment lengths 110 Length of bundled filter 120 Length of the second combined wrapper 130 Length of smoking structure 200 How to make a smoking structure 201 Tobacco Segment 201b Providing a second tobacco segment 202 Provide a filter 203. Attach at least one filter and create a cooling tube. 203a Creating double-length bound filters 203b Cutting double length filters 204 Clamping the Clamped Filter and Tobacco Segment 302 Provide double-length filled filter segments 303 Gluing together a double-length filled filter segment and two hollow filter segments 303b Cutting double-length bundled filters M Center of double-length filter / Center of double-length smoking structure

Claims

1. A heat-and-burn smoking structure (1) having a longitudinal axis (3) extending in a length direction (2) and along at least one tobacco segment (10) comprising tobacco, at least one cooling tube (20), and a filter (4) comprising at least an upstream hollow filter segment (30) and a downstream filler-filled filter segment (40) adjacent to the hollow filter segment (30), the filter segments (30, 40) being bound together by at least one first bonding wrapper (50), and the cooling tube (20) and filter (4) being surrounded by a second bonding wrapper (60) extending partially over the tobacco segment (10) to attach the filter (30, 40) and the cooling tube (20) to the tobacco segment (10), the cooling tube (20) is formed between the filter (4) and the tobacco segment (10) by the first bonding wrapper (50) surrounding the filter (4) and forming a cavity (20a) between the tobacco segment (10) and the filter (4) that extends along a certain length beyond the upstream hollow filter segment (30); The first bonded wrapper (50) is thicker and / or has a higher basis weight than the second bonded wrapper (60). Smoking structure (1).

2. The cooling tube (20) is made of a paper material. Smoking structure (1) according to claim 1.

3. the cooling tubes (20) extend along the longitudinal axis (3) for a length (70) greater than 15 mm, preferably greater than 25 mm, preferably greater than 32 mm, and / or less than 45 mm, preferably less than 40 mm, preferably less than 37 mm; Smoking structure (1) according to at least one of claims 1 or 2.

4. The cooling tube (20) forms an empty cavity (20a). A smoking structure (1) according to at least one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The length of the cooling tube (20) is equal to or greater than the length (90) of the filter (30, 40). A smoking structure (1) according to at least one of claims 1 to 4.

6. the length (70) of the cooling tube (20) is equal to or greater than the length (100) of the tobacco segment (10); A smoking structure (1) according to at least one of claims 1 to 5.

7. A ventilation hole (5) is provided in the cooling tube (20), A smoking structure (1) according to at least one of claims 1 to 6.

8. The filler-filled filter segment (40) is characterized in that it comprises acetate or paper tow. A smoking structure (1) according to at least one of claims 1 to 7.

9. The tobacco segment (10) comprises reconstituted tobacco. A smoking structure (1) according to at least one of claims 1 to 8.

10. the tobacco comprises tobacco powder and / or strands and / or folded sheets of tobacco sheets, preferably comprising more than 5% by weight of glycerin, preferably more than 8% by weight of glycerin, preferably more than 10% by weight of glycerin, 10. A smoking structure (1) according to claim 9.

11. The cooling tube (20) is characterized in that it comprises a tubular reinforcing material. A smoking structure (1) according to at least one of claims 1 to 10.

12. characterised in that the paper material has a weight greater than 60 gsm, preferably greater than 75 gsm, preferably greater than 90 gsm, and / or a weight less than 200 gsm, preferably less than 150 gsm, preferably less than 125 gsm. Smoking structure (1) according to claim 2.

13. the cooling tubes (20) are filled with a filling material, preferably fibers or inserts; A smoking structure (1) according to at least one of claims 1 to 12.

14. the second combined wrapper (60) overlaps the first combined wrapper (50) along at least a portion of the length of the first combined wrapper (50); A smoking structure (1) according to at least one of claims 1 to 13.

15. the vent holes are fabricated by laser machining through the material of the first (50) and second combined wrappers (60). Smoking structure (1) according to claim 7.

16. A method for producing a heat-and-burn smoking structure (1), comprising: - providing a tobacco segment (10) and at least a first filter (4) formed from at least two filter segments (30, 40); - wrapping said first filter (4) with at least one first combined wrapper (50) to obtain a first combined filter, wherein a cooling tube is formed as a cavity surrounded by said first combined wrapper, the length (70) of said cooling tube (20) being greater than the length (90) of said first filter (4), thereby creating a cavity (20a) on at least one side of said combined filter (4); - wrapping the first wrapped filter (4) and at least a portion of the tobacco segment (10) with a second combined wrapper (60) so that the cavity (20a) is located between the filter (4) and the tobacco segment (10), The method wherein the first bonded wrapper (50) is thicker and / or has a higher basis weight than the second bonded wrapper (60).

17. the additional step of wrapping the first and second filters with the first combined wrapper to obtain a double-length wrapped filter, wherein a double-length tube (20) is formed between the first and second filters, the length of the double-length tube being equal to or greater than the combined length of the first and second filters, creating a cooling tube (20) between the first and second filters.

17. The method of claim 16.

18. the additional step of bundling the double-length filled filter segment and two hollow filter segments (30) with a double-length first combined wrapper to obtain a double-length combined filter, the double-length first combined wrapper defining two cavities forming a cooling tube (20), and at least one hollow filter segment (30) being positioned between the cooling tube (20) and the double-length first filter; 17. The method of claim 16.

19. characterized by the additional step of cutting the double length bundled filter to create first and second bundled filters comprising a first cooling tube (20) and a second cooling tube (20).

19. The method of at least one of claims 17 or 18.

20. A method for producing two heat-and-no-burn smoking structures (1), comprising: - providing a tobacco segment (10) and at least a first and a second attached filter according to claim 19; - placing the tobacco segment (10) between the first and second wrapped filters (4a, 4b), the cooling tube (20) of each wrapped filter (4a, 4b) being positioned between the tobacco segment (10) and the filter segment (30a, 30b) of each wrapped filter (4a, 4b); - bonding each of the first and second bonded filters (4a, 4b) and at least two portions of the tobacco segment (10) with two separate second bonded wrappers (60), or bonding the tobacco segment (10) and the first and second bonded filters with one common bonded wrapper to create a double-length smoking structure (1), wherein a cavity (20a) in each bonded filter is created between each of the first and second filters and the tobacco segment (10); - cutting said double length smoking structure (1) at the midpoint (M) of said tobacco segment (10) to create two smoking structures (1); The method wherein the first bonded wrapper (50) is thicker and / or has a higher basis weight than the second bonded wrapper (60).

Images