Smoking article equipped with flavor delivery component
The filter design with an embedded flavor delivery member addresses flavor loss in smoking articles by ensuring controlled release and enhanced flavor transfer, providing a unique sensory experience and manufacturing protection.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- JP · JP
- Patent Type
- Patents
- Current Assignee / Owner
- PHILIP MORRIS PRODUCTS SA
- Filing Date
- 2025-07-16
- Publication Date
- 2026-07-16
Smart Images
Figure 0007891575000002 
Figure 0007891575000003 
Figure 0007891575000004
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] The present invention relates to filters for smoking articles and smoking articles provided with such filters.
Background Art
[0002] Combustible smoking articles such as cigarettes typically comprise finely cut tobacco (usually in the form of cut filler) surrounded by a paper wrapper that forms a tobacco rod. The cigarette is used by a consumer by igniting one end thereof and burning the finely cut tobacco rod. Next, the consumer inhales the mainstream smoke by drawing at the opposite end of the cigarette (the mouth end or the filter end). The finely cut tobacco may be a single type of tobacco or a blend of two or more types of tobacco.
[0003] Numerous smoking articles in which the aerosol-forming substrate such as tobacco is heated rather than burned have also been proposed in the art. In heated smoking articles, the aerosol is generated by heating the aerosol-forming substrate. Known heated smoking articles include, for example, smoking articles in which the aerosol is generated by electrical heating or by transfer of heat from a combustible fuel element or heat source to the aerosol-forming substrate. During smoking, volatile compounds are released from the aerosol-forming substrate by heat transfer from the heat source and are entrained in the air drawn through the smoking article. As the released compounds cool, they condense to form an aerosol, which is inhaled by the consumer. Also known are smoking articles in which nicotine-containing aerosol is generated from tobacco material, tobacco extracts, or other nicotine sources without combustion and, in some cases, without heating, for example by chemical reaction.
[0004] Smoking articles, particularly cigarettes, typically comprise a filter aligned with a tobacco rod or another aerosol-forming substrate in an end-to-end relationship. The filter usually contains a plug of cellulose acetate tow attached to the tobacco rod or aerosol-forming substrate by chipping paper. Ventilation of the mainstream smoke can be achieved by one or more rows of perforations located near the filter within the chipping paper.
[0005] Flavorings can be added to cigarettes and smoking items. Some consumers may prefer cigarettes that offer one or more flavors selectively, depending on their immediate desires, whether short-term or long-term. However, certain flavorings are volatile and tend to evaporate or migrate over time, diminishing the effectiveness of these flavorings.
[0006] Therefore, it is desirable to provide smoking articles and filters for smoking articles that promote the transfer of flavor to the smoke, minimize flavor diffusion, and still maintain other desirable properties of the smoking articles. [Overview of the project]
[0007] According to a first aspect of the present invention, a filter for a smoking article is provided, the filter comprising a filter segment containing a filter material, the filter segment having a cross-sectional area measured perpendicular to the long axis of the filter, and a flavor delivery member embedded within the filter segment and surrounded on all sides by the filter material, the flavor delivery member comprising a structural material for sealing a liquid flavoring agent for flavoring smoke when smoked, wherein the flavor delivery member releases at least a portion of the liquid flavoring agent when the filter is exposed to an external force, and the cross-sectional area of the flavor delivery member measured perpendicular to the long axis of the filter is about 30% or more of the cross-sectional area of the filter segment, and the filter material of the filter segment contains fibers with a density of about 5.0 to about 12.0 denier per filament, totaling about 10,000 to about 35,000 denier.
[0008] The external force can be applied in any direction, but it is preferable to apply it in a direction perpendicular to the long axis of the filter. One preferred way to apply the external force is for the user to compress the filter containing the flavor delivery member or to apply an external force to the filter before or during smoking the smoking article containing the filter. It is preferable that the compression or compressive action or the application of an external force breaks the flavor delivery member, thereby releasing at least a portion of the liquid flavoring into the filter. Alternatively, the compression or compressive action may provide a sustained release of the liquid flavoring over a range of compressive force. The liquid flavoring can then flavor the smoke passing through the filter. External devices such as clamping devices, tube compressing devices, tweezers, or any other devices for applying compressive force may also be used to concentrate force at a given filter location.
[0009] The cross-sectional area of the flavor delivery member is wider than that of the filter segment compared to the filter segment in the prior art filter. Since the cross-sectional area of the flavor delivery member is approximately 30% or more of the cross-sectional area of the filter segment, less than approximately 70% of the filter segment's cross-sectional area remains permeable to air and smoke. Thus, in the filter of the present invention, the flavor delivery member has a higher blocking effect than the filter of the prior art filter. This can lead to several advantages that differ from those seen in the filter of the prior art. First, the filter can have a higher draw-to-discharge (RTD) than the filter of the prior art filter before the flavor delivery member releases the liquid flavoring agent. This is because the air and smoke flow through the filter segment is forced to pass through a relatively small area of filter material around the flavor delivery member. Such a high RTD can create a novel and unique sensory experience for consumers. Secondly, when the filter is subjected to external forces and the flavor delivery component releases liquid flavoring (for example, when the flavor delivery component is destroyed), the cross-sectional area of the filter segment, which is permeable to the gas flow, increases, resulting in a rapid flow of air and smoke through the filter. That is, there is a decrease in the RTD (from a relatively high initial RTD), and there is also a noticeable change in flavor due to the liquid flavoring. In this case as well, a stimulating sensory experience that enhances the consumer's mood is created.
[0010] Thirdly, because the dimensions of the flavor delivery components are larger than those of the filter segments, the flavor delivery components are susceptible to damage during manufacturing or handling (because the flavor delivery components are closer to the outside of the filter). However, the inventors of this invention have found that by embedding the flavor delivery components within the filter material, the flavor delivery components are better protected during manufacturing and handling. The flavor delivery components are retained within the filter material. However, it is still possible for consumers to locate the flavor delivery components within the filter and apply the necessary external force to release the liquid flavoring agent. This allows the filters of this invention to accommodate larger flavor delivery components (relative to the dimensions of the filter) than would be possible if they were used within recesses in the filter, such as in a "plug-space-plug" filter. Embedding the flavor delivery components within the filter material of the filter segments adds the advantage of simpler manufacturing, as the flavor delivery components can be incorporated between the fibers of the filter material tow. Thus, conventional manufacturing techniques can be used, in which a continuous tow material with the flavor delivery components embedded is cut into filter segments. No separate process is required for inserting the flavor delivery components.
[0011] According to the present invention, the filter material of the filter segment is appropriately selected to achieve a desirable balance of RTD (including RTD before and after the release of the liquid flavoring agent), an appropriate amount of material to properly hold the flavor delivery member within the filter segment, and an appropriate amount of material to prevent the filter material from deforming around the flavor delivery member.
[0012] In particular, the filter material of the filter segment contains fibers of approximately 5.0 to 12.0 denier per filament, totaling approximately 10,000 and 35,000 denier. The total density of these filter materials is lower than that of the filter material in which the flavor delivery component is embedded in the prior art. This allows for the provision of a desirable RTD while providing an appropriate amount of material that supports the flavor delivery component while avoiding bulging of the filter material around the flavor delivery component.
[0013] The filter segment preferably contains fibers with a density of at least 6.0 denier (dpf) per filament. In one preferred embodiment, the filter segment contains large-diameter fibers with a density of approximately 8.0 dpf. The total denier of the filter segment is preferably less than approximately 30,000, and more preferably less than approximately 25,000. Furthermore, or alternatively, the total denier of the filter segment is preferably greater than approximately 12,000. In one preferred embodiment, the filter segment contains large-diameter fibers with a total denier of approximately 15,000. The number of fibers present in the filter segment (total denier ÷ dpf) may be less than approximately 6,000, but is preferably less than approximately 5,000. Such filter materials have been shown to avoid deformation of the filter material while providing an appropriate balance when the flavor delivery member is embedded within the filter material (between the RTD and the flavor delivery member support).
[0014] A further advantage provided by using the filter material according to the present invention is that it facilitates the embedding of flavor delivery members within the filter material. The inventors have understood that even if the flavor delivery members are close to the outer surface of the filter, embedding them within a filter material with a relatively low total density protects the flavor delivery members during manufacturing and handling. By using a filter material with a low total density, the flavor delivery members are embedded without causing deformation (e.g., bulging) in the filter. The low-density material effectively provides voids for the flavor delivery members to be incorporated into the filter material. At the same time, the filter material provides fibers that allow flavor to escape at the outer tip of the filter and facilitate the incorporation of flavor by smoke.
[0015] Another advantage provided by using the filter material according to the present invention is that, in the case of slim cigarettes with a diameter of approximately 6.0 mm or less, a low-density filter material can achieve a standard tar delivery level even when such smoking articles contain relatively little tobacco, and can maximize flavor.
[0016] As already discussed, with the filter of the present invention, the cross-sectional area of the filter blocked by the flavor delivery member is larger than that of the prior art. Thus, smoking articles using such a filter may have a higher RTD than smoking articles of the prior art before the liquid flavoring agent is released. Such a high RTD can create a new and unique sensory experience for consumers. The RTD of the smoking article may be about 130 mmH2O or more before the liquid flavoring agent is released, but is preferably about 150 mmH2O or more. Furthermore, or by other means, the RTD of the smoking article may be about 210 mmH2O or more. The RTD of the smoking article is preferably about 130 mmH2O to about 210 mmH2O, and more preferably about 150 mmH2O to about 210 mmH2O.
[0017] Furthermore, when the flavor delivery component is crushed, there is a decrease in RTD (Ready-to-Drink) content, which can create a new and unique sensory experience for consumers. The decrease in RTD content may be due to the reduction in the size of the flavor delivery component when it is crushed. The RTD content of a smoking product may decrease by at least about 10 mm H2O after the flavor delivery component is crushed, but it is preferable that it decreases by at least about 20 mm H2O, and more preferably by at least about 30 mm H2O.
[0018] In this specification, the terms “upstream” and “downstream” are used to describe the relative positions between elements of a filter or smoking article with respect to the direction of the mainstream smoke as it is drawn in through the filter from the igniting end of the smoking article.
[0019] In this specification, the expression "enclosed on all sides" means that the flavor delivery member is directly adjacent to the filter material of the filter segment in the upstream and downstream directions (longitudinal axis direction) and transverse direction. That is, the flavor delivery member is completely embedded within the filter material and not in a separate recess. Preferably, the flavor delivery member is incorporated into the filter material during the manufacturing of the filter material. For example, the flavor delivery member may be incorporated between the fibers of a continuous rod of filter material and then cut into filter segments.
[0020] The cross-sectional area of the flavor delivery member, measured perpendicular to the long axis of the filter, is approximately 30% or more of the cross-sectional area of the filter segment, similarly measured perpendicular to the long axis of the filter. Alternatively, to put it another way, the ratio of the cross-sectional area of the filter segment that remains permeable to air and smoke after the flavor delivery member is embedded in the filter material is less than approximately 70%. (If the filter includes a wrapper such as a plug wrap or chipping paper, the cross-sectional area of the filter segment is generally measured within the wrapper.) The cross-sectional area of the flavor delivery member is preferably approximately 30% or more of the cross-sectional area of the filter segment, and may be less than approximately 80%. Alternatively, to put it another way, the ratio of the cross-sectional area of the filter segment that remains permeable to air and smoke after the flavor delivery member is embedded in the filter material is preferably between approximately 20% and less than approximately 70%.
[0021] The cross-sectional area of the flavor delivery member, measured perpendicular to the long axis of the filter, is more preferably about 45% or more of the cross-sectional area of the filter segments. Alternatively, to put it another way, the ratio of the cross-sectional area of the filter segments that remain permeable to air and smoke after the flavor delivery member is embedded in the filter material is less than about 55%. The cross-sectional area of the flavor delivery member is preferably about 45% or more of the cross-sectional area of the filter segments, and may be less than about 80%. Alternatively, to put it another way, the ratio of the cross-sectional area of the filter segments that remain permeable to air and smoke after the flavor delivery member is embedded in the filter material is preferably about 20% or more and less than about 55%.
[0022] The cross-sectional area of the flavor delivery member, measured perpendicular to the long axis of the filter, is more preferably about 55% or more of the cross-sectional area of the filter segments. Alternatively, to put it another way, the ratio of the cross-sectional area of the filter segments that remain permeable to air and smoke after the flavor delivery member is embedded in the filter material is less than about 45%. The cross-sectional area of the flavor delivery member is preferably about 55% or more of the cross-sectional area of the filter segments, and may be less than about 80%. Alternatively, to put it another way, the ratio of the cross-sectional area of the filter segments that remain permeable to air and smoke after the flavor delivery member is embedded in the filter material is preferably about 20% or more and less than about 45%.
[0023] The filter diameter is preferably less than approximately 6.5 mm. The filter diameter is more preferably between approximately 3.6 mm and approximately 6.5 mm. (The filter diameter is generally measured within any wrapper material such as plug wrap or chipping paper unless otherwise specified herein.) The filter diameter is more preferably between approximately 3.6 mm and approximately 5.5 mm. The filter diameter is even more preferably between approximately 3.6 mm and approximately 4.5 mm.
[0024] The length of the filter may be approximately 27 mm, but the center of the flavor delivery member may be located approximately 13.5 mm from the downstream end of the filter. In this case, if the filter segment is the sole component of the filter, the center of the flavor delivery member is located approximately 13.5 mm from the downstream end of the filter segment, or if the filter includes additional filter elements, the center of the flavor delivery member is located approximately 13.5 mm from the downstream end of the filter, and this may or may not be the downstream end of the filter segment. Alternatively, the length of the filter may be approximately 32 mm, but the center of the flavor delivery member may be located approximately 16 mm from the downstream end of the filter. In this specification, the “center” of the flavor delivery member means the midpoint between the furthest downstream and furthest upstream portions of the flavor delivery member.
[0025] The flavor delivery member can be positioned symmetrically or asymmetrically within the filter. When the flavor delivery member is positioned symmetrically within the filter, the center of the flavor delivery member is equidistant between the upstream and downstream ends of the filter. The filter can include one or more additional filter elements upstream of the filter segment, downstream of the filter segment, or both upstream and downstream of the filter segment. When the filter includes additional elements and the placement of the flavor delivery member is symmetric with respect to the entire filter, the placement of the flavor delivery member can be either symmetric or asymmetric with respect to the filter segment, depending on the position and length of the additional filter elements. When the flavor delivery member is positioned asymmetrically within the filter, the center of the flavor delivery member is not equidistant between the upstream and downstream ends of the filter. For example, the flavor delivery member can be positioned in the upstream third or the downstream third of the filter. When the filter includes additional elements and the placement of the flavor delivery member is asymmetric with respect to the entire filter, the placement of the flavor delivery member can be either symmetric or asymmetric with respect to the filter segment, depending on the position and length of the additional filter elements.
[0026] In one preferred embodiment, the filter segment and the flavor delivery member are circular in cross-section, the diameter of the filter segment is from about 3.6 mm to about 6.5 mm, and the diameter of the flavor delivery member measured perpendicular to the long axis of the filter is from about 2.5 mm to about 4.5 mm. For example, the diameter of the filter segment (inside any filter wrapper) can be about 6.1 mm. For example, the diameter of the flavor delivery member can be about 3.5 mm. In this embodiment, the cross-sectional area of the flavor delivery member measured perpendicular to the long axis of the filter is about 33% of the cross-sectional area of the filter segment. Alternatively, stated in another form, the ratio of the cross-sectional area of the filter segment that remains permeable to air and smoke after the flavor delivery member is embedded in the filter material is about 67%. For a "slim cigarette" with an overall diameter of about 7.0 mm, a filter with a diameter of about 6.1 mm can be used.
[0027] In another preferred embodiment, the filter segment and the flavor delivery member are circular in cross-section, the diameter of the filter segment is from about 3.6 mm to about 5.5 mm, and the diameter of the flavor delivery member measured perpendicular to the long axis of the filter is from about 3.0 mm to about 3.5 mm. For example, the diameter of the filter segment (inside any filter wrapper) can be about 4.5 mm. For example, the diameter of the flavor delivery member can be about 3.2 mm. In this embodiment, the cross-sectional area of the flavor delivery member measured perpendicular to the long axis of the filter is about 51% of the cross-sectional area of the filter segment. Alternatively, in another form of expression, the ratio of the cross-sectional area of the filter segment that remains permeable to air and smoke after the flavor delivery member is embedded in the filter material is about 49%. For a "super slim cigarette" with an overall diameter of less than about 5.4 mm, a filter with a diameter of less than about 4.5 mm can be used.
[0028] In another preferred embodiment, the filter segment and the flavor delivery member are circular in cross-section, the diameter of the filter segment is from about 3.6 mm to about 4.5 mm, and the diameter of the flavor delivery member measured perpendicular to the long axis of the filter is from about 3.0 mm to about 3.5 mm. For example, the diameter of the filter segment (inside any filter wrapper) can be about 3.8 mm. For example, the diameter of the flavor delivery member can be about 3.2 mm. In this embodiment, the cross-sectional area of the flavor delivery member measured perpendicular to the long axis of the filter is about 71% of the cross-sectional area of the filter segment. Alternatively, in another form of expression, the ratio of the cross-sectional area of the filter segment that remains permeable to air and smoke after the flavor delivery member is embedded in the filter material is less than about 29%. For a "micro slim cigarette" with an overall diameter of about 4.7 mm, a filter with a diameter of about 3.8 mm can be used.
[0029] The term "flavor delivery component" refers to any delivery system that delivers flavor, but in this case, it includes a structural material that contains a liquid flavoring agent. By providing a flavor delivery component that releases the liquid flavoring agent when the filter is exposed to an external force, the liquid flavoring agent is released in a manner controlled by the consumer. An external force can be applied before or during use of the smoking article, thereby releasing the liquid flavoring agent. The external force on the flavor delivery component allows the liquid flavoring agent to escape from the component and interact with the smoking article, changing its properties, thereby producing smoke. Because the liquid flavoring agent is released only when an external force is applied to the filter, this reduces the possibility of the liquid flavoring agent diffusing or decomposing, for example, during storage.
[0030] The flavor delivery member can be of any desired size, as long as the cross-sectional area of the flavor delivery member, measured perpendicular to the long axis of the filter, is at least 30% of the cross-sectional area of the filter segment. For example, the flavor delivery member can be spherical with a diameter of about 2.5 mm to about 4.5 mm, but is preferably about 3.0 mm to about 3.5 mm. Alternatively, the flavor delivery member can be spherical with a diameter of less than about 3.4 mm, but is preferably about 3.2 mm.
[0031] Numerous manufacturing challenges can arise with small flavor delivery components. In some embodiments, these challenges can be avoided by using flavor delivery components with a cross-sectional area of approximately 30% or more of the cross-sectional area of the filter segment. A larger flavor delivery component relative to the filter segment maximizes the amount of liquid flavoring agent that can be contained within the component, allowing consumers to achieve a desired flavor level. In the case of flavor delivery components with an outer shell and an inner core, a larger flavor delivery component also includes a proportionally thicker outer shell. Such shells are relatively simple for consistent manufacturing and for manufacturing with the desired burst strength.
[0032] The flavor delivery member may have any suitable structure in which the structural material encapsulates the liquid flavoring agent. The flavor delivery member may have a substrate structure defining multiple regions, but the liquid flavoring agent is confined within these regions until it is released when an external force is applied to the filter. However, it is more preferable for the flavor delivery member to have a capsule. The capsule preferably comprises an outer shell and an inner core containing the liquid flavoring agent. The outer shell is preferably substantially continuous. The outer shell is preferably sealed before an external force is applied, but is brittle and fragile so that the liquid flavoring agent is released when an external force is applied. The capsule may be formed of a variety of physical structures, including, but not limited to, single-part capsules, multi-part capsules, single-walled capsules, multi-walled capsules, large capsules, and small capsules.
[0033] If the flavor delivery member has a substrate structure that defines multiple regions for containing a liquid flavoring agent, the flavor delivery member may release the liquid flavoring agent when the filter is exposed to an external force exceeding at least 5 N. The force of the flavor delivery member against the compression curve may have a peak of approximately 5 N to approximately 24 N. Alternatively, if the flavor delivery member is a capsule arranged to burst or break and release the liquid flavoring agent when the filter is exposed to an external force (for example, if the capsule has a shell and an internal core), the capsule may have a desirable burst strength. The burst strength is the force (acting on the capsule from the outside of the filter) that causes the capsule to burst. The burst strength may be the peak in the force of the capsule against the compression curve. Preferably, the capsule has a burst strength of approximately 5 N (0.5 kgf) to approximately 24 N (2.4 kgf). More preferably, the capsule has a burst strength of approximately 8 N (0.8 kgf) to approximately 20 N (2.0 kgf). It is even more preferable that the capsule has a burst strength of approximately 12 N (1.2 kgf) to approximately 16 N (1.6 kgf).
[0034] Flavor delivery members can have any suitable shape, such as spherical, spherical, or ellipsoidal. However, flavor delivery members are generally preferred to be spherical. This may include flavor delivery members with a sphericity value of at least about 0.9, but is preferred to be about 1. Sphericity is a measure of how spherical an object is, with a sphericity value of 1 for a perfect sphere. The sphericity value can be determined by determining the average of the maximum and minimum diameters, subtracting the difference between the maximum and minimum diameters from the average, and dividing the resulting value by the average. Generally, spherical flavor delivery members are generally preferred to have a spherical outer shell.
[0035] Flavor delivery components can be manufactured by any suitable method (e.g., by co-extrusion), as will be understood by those skilled in the art.
[0036] Preferably, only one flavor delivery member is embedded within the filter. However, additional flavor delivery members may be provided along the long axis of the filter. Additional flavor delivery members may be provided in the same filter segment or in additional filter segments. If additional flavor delivery members are provided within the filter, they may have the same or different attributes.
[0037] Flavor delivery components can comprise any suitable substance or combination of materials, such as those used in drug delivery capsules, liquid-filled capsules, or other encapsulating materials. For example, flavor delivery components can be those commonly used in the pharmaceutical industry. Such flavor delivery components can be, for example, gelatin-based or formed from polymeric substances such as modified cellulose. One type of modified cellulose that can be used is hydroxypropyl methylcellulose. In addition to gelatin or modified cellulose, or in addition to both gelatin and modified cellulose, the outer shell may contain polysaccharides.
[0038] Liquid flavorings may include any flavor compound or tobacco extract suitable for placement within a flavor delivery member so as to be released in liquid form to enhance the taste of the mainstream smoke produced when smoking a smoking article, including a filter. Suitable flavors or aromas include, but are not limited to, menthol, mint (such as peppermint and Dutch mint), chocolate, licorice, citrus and other fruit flavors, γ-octamers, vanillin, ethyl vanillin, breath freshener flavors, spice flavors (such as cinnamon), methyl salicylate, linalool, bergamot oil, geranium oil, lemon oil, ginger oil, and tobacco flavor. Other suitable flavors may include flavor compounds selected from the group including acids, alcohols, esters, aldehydes, ketones, pyrazines, combinations or mixtures thereof, and similar substances.
[0039] The filter material (of the filter segment or any additional filter element) may comprise any suitable substance or material. Examples of suitable materials include, but are not limited to, cellulose acetate, cellulose, regenerated cellulose, polylactic acid, polyvinyl alcohol, nylon, polyhydroxybutyrate, polypropylene, paper, thermoplastics (such as starch), nonwoven materials, and combinations thereof. One or more materials may be formed into an open cellular structure. The filter material preferably contains cellulose acetate.
[0040] The filter may include additional materials either within the filter segment or within one or more additional elements incorporated into the filter. For example, additional materials may be incorporated into the fibrous filter tow of the filter segment or into additional filter elements. For example, the filter may include absorbent material. The term “absorbent” means any substance that can perform the functions of an adsorbent, an absorbent, or both. The absorbent material may comprise activated carbon. The absorbent may be incorporated within the filter segment into which the flavor delivery member is embedded. However, it is more preferable that the absorbent be incorporated into an additional filter element upstream of the filter segment. Alternatively or additionally, the filter may include adhesives, plasticizers, or flavor release agents, or a combination thereof.
[0041] When an absorbent material (such as activated carbon) is provided within the filter, either within the filter segment in which the flavor delivery member is embedded, or within an additional filter element, the flavor delivery member is preferably downstream of the absorbent. This arrangement allows the absorbent to filter the smoking article, and the liquid flavoring agent to be released into the filter without affecting the effectiveness of the liquid flavoring agent due to absorption or adsorption by the absorbent.
[0042] The filter may contain flavoring agents such as flavored cellulose fibers, meerschmitt, molecular sieves, or flavor-permeable activated carbon.
[0043] A filter may include one or more additional filter elements upstream, downstream, or both upstream and downstream of a filter segment. If a filter includes additional elements, the filter segment in which the flavor delivery member is embedded is only one of the filter components of the smoking article filter, and not the entire smoking article filter. Additional filter elements may be positioned axially with respect to the filter segment. For example, a filter may further include one or more plugs or discs of filter material downstream of a filter segment, one or more plugs or discs of filter material upstream of a filter segment, or plugs or discs of filter material both downstream and upstream of a filter segment. Alternatively or additionally, a filter may further include one or more hollow tubes downstream of a filter segment, one or more hollow tubes upstream of a filter segment, or hollow tubes both downstream and upstream of a filter segment. If one or more hollow tubes are provided, they may be identical or different in size. Alternatively, or additionally, the filter may further include voids or depressions downstream or upstream of the filter segment, or both downstream and upstream. Such voids or depressions may be defined by a filter wrapper surrounding the filter material. The voids or depressions may be empty or filled with any suitable material.
[0044] Various filter configurations can be used, incorporating one or more flavor delivery components. Exemplary filter structures that can be used include, but are not limited to, monofilters, double filters, triple filters, single or multi-cavity filters, recessed filters, free-flow filters, and combinations thereof. Monofilters typically contain cellulose acetate tow or cellulose paper material. Double filters typically contain a cellulose acetate end and a segment of pure cellulose or cellulose acetate. The length and pressure drop of the segments within the double filter can be adjusted to maintain an acceptable RTD while providing optimal adsorption. Recessed filters contain at least two segments separated by at least one recess (e.g., acetate-acetate, acetate-paper, or paper-paper). Recessed filters contain a recess open at the end.
[0045] The filter may include a filter wrapper that surrounds at least the filter material. The filter wrapper provides strength and structural rigidity for the filter, including the filter segments. If the filter includes one or more additional filter elements, it is preferable that the filter segments and the one or more additional filter elements are wrapped from above with the filter wrapper. The filter wrapper may include any suitable material. The filter wrapper can prevent deformation of the outside of the filter segments where the flavor delivery member is embedded in the filter material. The filter wrapper may include a seam containing one or more rows of adhesive. It is preferable that the seam contains two rows of adhesive. One row of adhesive may include hot melt adhesive. One row of adhesive may include polyvinyl alcohol.
[0046] The filters according to the present invention can be advantageously used in filters for filter cigarettes and other smoking articles in which tobacco material is burned to form smoke. Alternatively, the filters according to the present invention can be used in smoking articles in which tobacco material is heated rather than burned to form an aerosol. The filters according to the present invention can also be used in smoking articles in which a nicotine-containing aerosol is produced from tobacco material, tobacco extract, or other nicotine source without combustion or heating.
[0047] According to a second aspect of the present invention, a smoking article is provided comprising an aerosol-forming substrate and a filter according to a first aspect of the present invention. According to a second aspect of the present invention, a smoking article is provided comprising a tobacco substrate and a filter according to a first aspect of the present invention. According to a second aspect of the present invention, a smoking article is also provided comprising a tobacco rod and a filter according to a first aspect of the present invention.
[0048] In conventional cigarettes, the aerosol-forming substrate may include a portion containing the tobacco, sometimes referred to as the tobacco rod or cigarette rod. Thus, a cigarette typically consists of two parts: the tobacco portion and the filter. The chipping paper usually surrounds the filter and forms the mouthpiece end of the cigarette. The chipping paper overlaps the tobacco rod to hold the filter and tobacco rod together. The tobacco rod typically includes a paper wrapper in which the tobacco is wrapped, with adhesive holding the seams of the paper wrapper together. The tobacco rod has a first end attached to the filter and a second end that is lit or heated for smoking. When the tobacco rod is lit or heated for smoking, the smoke travels from the downstream lit end to the filter end of the tobacco rod and further downstream through the filter.
[0049] Examples of suitable types of tobacco materials that may be used include, but are not limited to, roasted dry tobacco, Burley tobacco, Maryland tobacco, Oriental tobacco, rare tobacco, specialty tobacco, mixtures thereof, and the like. Tobacco materials may be supplied in any suitable form, including, but not limited to, tobacco laminas, processed tobacco materials (such as volume-expanded or puffed tobacco), processed tobacco stems (such as cut-rolled or cut-puffed stems), recycled tobacco materials, mixtures thereof, and the like. Tobacco substitutes may also be used. In conventional cigarette manufacturing, tobacco is usually used in the form of cut fillers, i.e., in the form of fragments or strings cut to a width ranging from about 2.5 mm to about 1.2 mm or even about 0.6 mm. The length of the strings ranges from about 6 mm to about 75 mm. Slim cigarettes (diameter of about 6.0 mm or less) do not require expanded tobacco. In slim cigarettes, it is preferable that less than about 20% of the total tobacco in the cigarette is expanded tobacco.
[0050] The packing density of tobacco in smoking items is approximately 200 mg / cm³. -3 It is preferable that the above conditions are met. The packing density of tobacco in smoking articles is approximately 220 mg / cm³. -3 The above is more preferable. The packing density of tobacco in smoking articles is approximately 240 mg / cm³. -3 It is even more preferable that the above conditions are met. Slim cigarettes (diameter of approximately 6.0 mm or less) have a relatively high packing density or filling density of approximately 200 mg / cm². -3 It may be permissible.
[0051] The smoking article preferably further comprises a tobacco rod or other aerosol-forming substrate and a chipping material attached to the filter. The chipping material provides additional strength and structural rigidity for the filter segment and can reduce the possibility of deformation of the outer surface of the filter segment where the flavor delivery member is embedded within the filter material.
[0052] The chipping material may include ventilation zones with perforations penetrating the chipping material. The degree of ventilation is preferably greater than approximately 60%, more preferably greater than approximately 70%, and even more preferably greater than approximately 80%. The degree of ventilation is preferably less than approximately 95%, more preferably less than approximately 90%, and even more preferably less than approximately 85%. The degree of ventilation is preferably between approximately 60% and approximately 95%, more preferably between approximately 70% and approximately 90%, and even more preferably between approximately 80% and approximately 85%. Ventilation can reduce both the particulate and gaseous phase components of mainstream smoke. However, the RTD level of smoking articles with high levels of ventilation may be too low to be considered acceptable to consumers. However, due to their relatively large cross-sectional area, adding flavor delivery components embedded in the filter can result in a higher RTD, making the filter's RTD level desirable. When used with high levels of ventilation, flavor delivery components can increase the RTD while reducing both the particulate and gaseous phase components of mainstream smoke.
[0053] The chipping material may include at least one row of perforations to provide ventilation for the mainstream smoke. If the filter includes a filter wrapper, the perforations preferably extend through the filter wrapper. Alternatively, the filter wrapper may be permeable. The chipping material may be a standard pre-perforated chipping material. Alternatively, the chipping material may be perforated during the manufacturing process according to a desired number, size, and location of perforations (e.g., using a laser). The number, size, and location of perforations may be selected to provide a desired level of ventilation. Together with the flavor delivery member and filter material, ventilation creates a desired RTD level. The RTD of the smoking article may be at least about 130 mmH2O before the liquid flavoring is released (e.g., before the flavor delivery member is crushed).
[0054] It is preferable that the ventilation zone be provided upstream of the flavor delivery member. This is to reduce the possibility of liquid flavoring leaking from the perforations after the liquid flavoring has been released. In one embodiment, the length of the filter is about 27 mm, the center of the flavor delivery member is located about 13.5 mm from the downstream end of the filter, and the row of perforations is provided about 18 mm from the downstream end of the filter. In this case, if the filter segment is the only component of the filter, the row of perforations is located about 18 mm from the downstream end of the filter segment, or if the filter includes additional filter elements, the row of perforations is located about 18 mm from the downstream end of the filter, and this may or may not be the downstream end of the filter segment. In one embodiment, the length of the filter is about 32 mm. The row of perforations may be provided at least about 11 mm from the downstream end of the filter.
[0055] In one embodiment, the smoking article further includes a chipping material to which a tobacco substrate and a filter are attached, wherein the chipping material includes a ventilation zone with perforations that penetrate the chipping material, and the perforations are located upstream of the flavor delivery member.
[0056] The chipping material is preferably substantially impermeable to the liquid flavoring agent of the flavor delivery member. A low-permeability chipping material prevents the liquid flavoring agent from penetrating the chipping material and causing unsightly staining on the outside of the chipping material. Any suitable material can be used, including, but is not limited to, cellophane and polyvinylidene chloride.
[0057] A third aspect of the present invention relates to the use of a flavor delivery member in a filter for a smoking article, wherein the filter is a filter segment containing a filter material, the filter segment having a cross-sectional area measured perpendicular to the long axis of the filter, the flavor delivery member being embedded within the filter segment and surrounded on all sides by the filter material, the flavor delivery member comprising a structural material for sealing a liquid flavoring agent for flavoring smoke during smoking, wherein the flavor delivery member releases at least a portion of the liquid flavoring agent when the filter is exposed to an external force, and the cross-sectional area of the flavor delivery member measured perpendicular to the long axis of the filter is approximately 30% or more of the cross-sectional area of the filter segment.
[0058] A fourth aspect of the present invention provides a method for manufacturing a filter for a smoking article, the method comprising the steps of: providing a continuous rod of filter material with gaps in the longitudinal direction of the rod, wherein flavor delivery members are embedded within the filter material, and each flavor delivery member includes a structural material containing a liquid flavoring agent, and the cross-sectional area of each flavor delivery member, measured perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the rod, is approximately 30% of the cross-sectional area of the rod; and cutting the continuous rod of filter material at spaced cuts in the longitudinal direction to produce filter segments of filter material, wherein each filter segment includes a flavor delivery member embedded within the filter segment and is surrounded on all sides by the filter material.
[0059] The method according to the fourth aspect of the present invention is simple because the flavor delivery member is directly incorporated into the filter material. For example, the flavor delivery member may incorporate fibers of the filter material, which are bundled together to form a filter material tow. No separate step is required for inserting the flavor delivery member.
[0060] Features described in relation to one aspect of the present invention may also be applicable to other aspects of the present invention.
[0061] The present invention will be further explained, but only illustratively, with reference to the following accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]
[0062] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a smoking article according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of a filter according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view along line III-III in Figure 2. [Modes for carrying out the invention]
[0063] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a smoking article 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention. The smoking article 100 typically includes a cylindrical tobacco rod 101 and a cylindrical filter 103. The tobacco rod 101 and the filter 103 are preferably arranged axially with their ends touching and adjacent to each other. The tobacco rod includes an outer wrapper 105 surrounding the smoking material. The outer wrapper 105 may be a porous packaging material or a paper wrapper. The tobacco is preferably finely cut tobacco or tobacco cut filler. The tobacco rod 101 has an upstream ignition-side end 107 and a downstream end 109. The filter 103 has an upstream end 111 and a downstream mouth-side end 113. The upstream end 111 of the filter 103 is adjacent to the downstream end 109 of the tobacco rod 101. The filter material of the filter 103 is enclosed within a filter wrapper (not shown). Although not shown in Figure 1, a flavor delivery member in capsule form is embedded in the filter 103.
[0064] The filter 103 is attached to the tobacco rod 101 by a chipping material 115 that surrounds the entire length of the filter 103 and the adjacent area of the tobacco rod 101. For clarity, the chipping material 115 is shown partially removed from the smoking article in Figure 1. The chipping material 115 is typically a paper-like product. However, any suitable material can be used. Preferably, the chipping material contains a material that is substantially impermeable to the liquid flavoring agent in the capsule. In this embodiment, the chipping material 115 includes a circumferential row of perforations 117 aligned with the filter 103. Perforations are provided for ventilation of the mainstream smoke, but are located upstream of a capsule (not shown) embedded within the filter 103.
[0065] In this specification, the relative positions of “upstream” and “downstream” between components of a smoking article are described in relation to the direction of the mainstream smoke as it is drawn in from the tobacco rod 101 and through the filter 103.
[0066] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of the filter 103 of Figure 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view along line III-III in Figure 2. In Figures 2 and 3, the filter 103 includes filter segments 201 of filter material 203. The filter 103 further includes flavor delivery members in the form of spherical capsules 205.
[0067] In the embodiments shown in Figures 2 and 3, the capsule 205 is embedded within the filter segment 201 and surrounded on all sides by the filter material 203. In this embodiment, the capsule comprises an outer shell and an inner core, the inner core containing a liquid flavoring agent. The liquid flavoring agent is for flavoring the smoke during smoking of a smoking article equipped with a filter. The capsule 205 releases at least a portion of the liquid flavoring agent when the filter is subjected to an external force, such as pressure from the consumer. In the embodiments shown in Figures 2 and 3, the capsule is generally spherical and has a substantially continuous outer shell containing the liquid flavoring agent.
[0068] As shown in Figure 3, capsule 205 has a diameter of 301, and filter segment 201 has a diameter of 303 (inside the filter wrapper). Therefore, the cross-sectional area of capsule 205 measured in a direction perpendicular to the long axis of the filter is the annular region π(301). 2 Similarly, the cross-sectional area of filter segment 201 measured in a direction perpendicular to the long axis of the filter is the annular region π(303). 2 Therefore, the cross-sectional area of capsule 205 as a percentage of the cross-sectional area of filter segment 201 is The filename is TIFF0007891575000001.tif1435. [Examples]
[0069] According to a first embodiment of the present invention, the diameter 301 of the capsule 205 is approximately 3.5 mm, the diameter 303 of the inner filter segment 201 of the filter wrapper is approximately 6.41 mm, and the diameter of the outer filter segment 201 of the filter wrapper is approximately 7.21 mm. The diameter of the cigarette (sometimes called a slim cigarette) including the filter is approximately 7.35 mm. In this embodiment, the cross-sectional area of the capsule is approximately 30% of the cross-sectional area of the filter segment. In this embodiment, the length of the cigarette may be approximately 97 mm or approximately 83 mm. In this embodiment, the length of the filter may be approximately 27 mm or approximately 32 mm, and the length of the chipping paper may be approximately 32 mm or approximately 36 mm. The circumferential rows of perforations may be provided at least approximately 11 mm from the mouth-side end, but preferably approximately 18 mm, and the center of the capsule may be provided at approximately 13.5 mm from the mouth-side end. [Examples]
[0070] According to a second embodiment of the present invention, the diameter 301 of the capsule 205 is approximately 3.5 mm, the diameter 303 of the inner filter segment 201 of the filter wrapper is approximately 6.19 mm, and the diameter of the outer filter segment 201 of the filter wrapper is approximately 6.99 mm. The diameter of the cigarette (sometimes called a slim cigarette) including the filter is approximately 7.10 mm. In this embodiment, the cross-sectional area of the capsule is approximately 32% of the cross-sectional area of the filter segment. In this embodiment, the length of the cigarette may be approximately 97 mm or approximately 83 mm. In this embodiment, the length of the filter may be approximately 27 mm or approximately 32 mm, and the length of the chipping paper may be approximately 32 mm or approximately 36 mm. The circumferential rows of perforations may be provided at least approximately 11 mm from the mouth-side end, but preferably approximately 18 mm, and the center of the capsule may be provided at approximately 13.5 mm from the mouth-side end. [Examples]
[0071] According to a third embodiment of the present invention, the diameter 301 of the capsule 205 is approximately 3.5 mm, the diameter 303 of the inner filter segment 201 of the filter wrapper is approximately 6.09 mm, and the diameter of the outer filter segment 201 of the filter wrapper is approximately 6.89 mm. The diameter of the cigarette (sometimes called a slim cigarette) including the filter is approximately 7.00 mm. In this embodiment, the cross-sectional area of the capsule is approximately 33% of the cross-sectional area of the filter segment. In this embodiment, the length of the cigarette may be approximately 97 mm or approximately 83 mm. In this embodiment, the length of the filter may be approximately 27 mm or approximately 32 mm, and the length of the chipping paper may be approximately 32 mm or approximately 36 mm. The circumferential rows of perforations may be provided at least approximately 11 mm from the mouth-side end, but preferably approximately 18 mm, and the center of the capsule may be provided at approximately 13.5 mm from the mouth-side end. [Examples]
[0072] According to a fourth embodiment of the present invention, the diameter 301 of the capsule 205 is approximately 3.2 mm, the diameter 303 of the inner filter segment 201 of the filter wrapper is approximately 4.55 mm, and the diameter of the outer filter segment 201 of the filter wrapper is approximately 5.35 mm. The diameter of the cigarette (sometimes called a super-slim cigarette) including the filter is approximately 5.41 mm. In this embodiment, the cross-sectional area of the capsule is approximately 49% of the cross-sectional area of the filter segment. In this embodiment, the length of the cigarette may be approximately 97 mm or approximately 83 mm. In this embodiment, the length of the filter may be approximately 27 mm or approximately 32 mm, and the length of the chipping paper may be approximately 32 mm or approximately 36 mm. The circumferential rows of perforations may be provided at least approximately 11 mm from the mouth-side end, but preferably approximately 18 mm, and the center of the capsule may be provided at approximately 13.5 mm from the mouth-side end. [Examples]
[0073] According to a fifth embodiment of the present invention, the diameter 301 of the capsule 205 is approximately 3.0 mm, the diameter 303 of the inner filter segment 201 of the filter wrapper is approximately 3.84 mm, and the diameter of the outer filter segment 201 of the filter wrapper is approximately 4.64 mm. The diameter of the cigarette (sometimes called a microslim cigarette) including the filter is approximately 4.70 mm. In this embodiment, the cross-sectional area of the capsule is approximately 61% of the cross-sectional area of the filter segment. In this embodiment, the length of the cigarette may be approximately 97 mm or approximately 83 mm. In this embodiment, the length of the filter may be approximately 27 mm or approximately 32 mm, and the length of the chipping paper may be approximately 32 mm or approximately 36 mm. The circumferential rows of perforations may be provided at least approximately 11 mm from the mouth end, but preferably approximately 18 mm, and the center of the capsule may be provided at approximately 13.5 mm from the mouth end. [Examples]
[0074] According to a sixth embodiment of the present invention, the diameter 301 of the capsule 205 is approximately 3.2 mm, the diameter 303 of the inner filter segment 201 of the filter wrapper is approximately 3.84 mm, and the diameter of the outer filter segment 201 of the filter wrapper is approximately 4.64 mm. The diameter of the cigarette (sometimes called a microslim cigarette) including the filter is approximately 4.70 mm. In this embodiment, the cross-sectional area of the capsule is approximately 69% of the cross-sectional area of the filter segment. In this embodiment, the length of the cigarette may be approximately 97 mm or approximately 83 mm. In this embodiment, the length of the filter may be approximately 27 mm or approximately 32 mm, and the length of the chipping paper may be approximately 32 mm or approximately 36 mm. The circumferential rows of perforations may be provided at least approximately 11 mm from the mouth end, but preferably approximately 18 mm, and the center of the capsule may be provided at approximately 13.5 mm from the mouth end.
Claims
1. A filter for smoking articles, wherein the filter is A filter segment comprising a filter material, wherein the filter segment has a cross-sectional area measured perpendicular to the long axis direction of the filter, A flavor delivery member embedded in the filter segment and surrounded on all sides by the filter material, wherein the flavor delivery member includes a structural material containing a liquid flavoring agent for flavoring smoke during smoking, and the flavor delivery member includes a flavor delivery member that releases at least a portion of the liquid flavoring agent when the filter is exposed to an external force, The cross-sectional area of the flavor delivery member, measured perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the filter, is approximately 30% or more of the cross-sectional area of the filter segment. Furthermore, the filter material of the filter segment contains fibers with a density of approximately 5.0 to 12.0 denier per filament and a total density of approximately 10,000 to 35,000 denier. The filter material of the filter segment includes a nonwoven fabric material.
2. The filter according to claim 1, wherein the diameter of the filter is less than approximately 6.5 mm.
3. The filter according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein the cross-sectional area of the flavor delivery member, measured perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the filter, is approximately 45% or more of the cross-sectional area of the filter segment.
4. The filter according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the cross-sectional area of the flavor delivery member, measured perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the filter, is approximately 55% or more of the cross-sectional area of the filter segment.
5. The filter according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the flavor delivery member includes a capsule.
6. The filter according to claim 5, wherein the burst strength of the capsule is approximately 5 N to approximately 24 N.
7. The filter according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the filter material comprises fibers with a density of approximately 5.0 to approximately 12.0 denier per filament and a total density of approximately 12,000 to approximately 30,000 denier.
8. The filter according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the cross-sections of the filter segment and the flavor delivery member are circular, the diameter of the filter segment is about 3.6 mm to about 6.5 mm, and the diameter of the flavor delivery member is about 2.5 mm to about 4.5 mm.
9. The filter according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the cross-sections of the filter segment and the flavor delivery member are circular, the diameter of the filter segment is about 3.6 mm to about 5.5 mm, and the diameter of the flavor delivery member is about 3.0 mm to about 3.5 mm.
10. The filter according to claim 8, wherein the cross-sections of the filter segment and the flavor delivery member are circular, the diameter of the filter segment is approximately 3.6 mm to approximately 4.5 mm, and the diameter of the flavor delivery member is approximately 3.0 mm to approximately 3.5 mm.
11. Smoking items, Tobacco substrate and A smoking article comprising a filter according to any one of claims 1 to 10.
12. The smoking article according to claim 11, wherein the tobacco substrate is a tobacco rod.
13. A smoking article according to claim 11 or 12, further comprising a chipping material to which the tobacco substrate and the filter are attached, wherein the chipping material includes a ventilation zone with perforations penetrating the chipping material, and the perforations are located upstream of the flavor delivery member.
14. The smoking article according to claim 13, wherein the chipping material is substantially impermeable to the liquid flavoring agent of the flavor delivery member.
15. Before the liquid flavoring agent is released, the RTD of the smoking article is approximately 130 mm H 2 A smoking article according to any one of claims 11 to 14, which exceeds 0.