Filter element for cigarettes

Abstract

The invention relates to a filter element for cigarettes, comprising a sleeve (1) for receiving filter material, at least one filter cap (2, 2′) for closing the sleeve, and filter material (3) for filtering cigarette smoke. The sleeve (1) and / or the at least one filter cap (2, 2′) are made of a biodegradable material and the filter material (3) is made of a biodegradable bulk material.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The invention relates to a filter element for cigarettes, comprising a sleeve for receiving filter material, at least one filter cap for closing the sleeve, and filter material for filtering cigarette smoke.

[0002] Even today, improperly disposed cigarette filters still represent a considerable littering factor. The term “littering” is generally understood to mean the careless discarding or leaving of small pieces of waste in public spaces.

[0003] In this context, it should be specifically mentioned that an average of around 5.6 trillion cigarettes are consumed worldwide each year. Of these, an estimated 4.5 trillion cigarette filters are disposed of improperly. In the city of Paris alone, this amounts to approximately 350 tons of cigarette butts per year.

[0004] These are also classified as highly environmentally hazardous or toxic, as they contain tar, nicotine, arsenic, and lead, i.e., toxins that enter the environment through improper disposal.

[0005] Conventional cigarette filters are usually made of cellulose acetate. This is a thermoplastic that is degradable but not biodegradable. A cigarette filter consists of around 12,000 such thermoplastic fibers.

[0006] There are also filters made of natural fibers (e.g., cellulose) that can exhibit increased degradability under certain circumstances.PRIOR ART

[0007] US 2015 / 0374030 A1 describes a biodegradable cigarette filter cable comprising a mixture of at least two or more natural materials. These materials are selected from a group consisting of hemp fibers, flax fibers, abaca fibers or pulp, sisal fibers or pulp, wood pulp, and cotton fibers or cotton flakes. The mixture may also contain regenerated cellulose fibers. The mixture may contain a natural binder or be water jet bonded.

[0008] EP 4 169 394 A1 discloses a mouthpiece or filter element (e.g., for a smoking article such as a cigarette or a tobacco heating product) comprising a hollow tube extending in the longitudinal direction made of paper or another biodegradable material, as well as a layer comprising paper filter material and / or other biodegradable filter material, which is placed around the hollow tube. Finally, the mouthpiece or filter element also has a covering which is placed around the layer and comprises paper filter material and / or other biodegradable filter material.

[0009] DE 20 2009 006 891 U1 describes a recyclable cigarette filter for cigarette tubes and finished cigarettes, in which the wrapping paper of the cigarette filter has a constant length of 15 mm and a constant diameter of 8 mm, but in which the filling varies.

[0010] However, even after several weeks, these solutions do not completely break down cigarette filters and cannot provide sufficiently variable draw resistance.

[0011] It is therefore the object of the present invention to create a filter element for cigarettes that is more environmentally friendly and allows the draw resistance to be adjusted efficiently to suit the smoker's preferences.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0012] The object is solved by a filter element for cigarettes as defined in independent claim 1. Advantageous embodiments of the invention are described in the dependent claims.

[0013] The essence of the invention is as follows: A filter element for cigarettes, with a sleeve for receiving filter material, at least one filter cap for closing the sleeve, and filter material for filtering cigarette smoke. The sleeve and / or the at least one filter cap are made of a biodegradable material, and the filter material is made of a biodegradable bulk material.

[0014] The term “cigarettes” in this context includes conventional and electric cigarettes as well as cigarette sleeves. A cigarette sleeve generally consists of pre-rolled cigarette paper with an integrated cigarette filter as a mouthpiece. By inserting tobacco into the empty cigarette sleeve, a cigarette can be made by the user himself.

[0015] The sleeve and the at least one filter cap are usually separate components of the filter element, but a one-piece design is also conceivable.

[0016] Preferably, the biodegradable material of the sleeve and / or the at least one filter cap comprises flax, hemp, in particular Manila hemp, jute, sisal, coconut, bamboo, starch, and / or cellulose. These materials for the filter element sleeve have proven to be particularly suitable in terms of the fastest possible degradability.

[0017] Preferably, the biodegradable bulk material of the filter material comprises salt, sugar, activated carbon, and / or sand. These materials are extremely rapidly degradable (and fundamentally environmentally friendly) and have proven themselves in terms of variable adjustment of the draw resistance. In particular, these materials (i.e., especially in combination with the above sleeve materials) can be used to exploit the influences that are determined by the weather and waste disposal in everyday urban reality (i.e., moisture, mechanical processing, and bacteria) in order to achieve the fastest possible decomposition. In other words, the filter elements should be made of readily available and accessible raw materials and should actually be degradable within a very short time under real conditions. Ideally, this should happen before final disposal in a landfill.

[0018] Preferably, the grain size of the bulk material is from about 0.5 mm to about 3.0 mm, preferably from about 1.0 mm to about 2.5 mm, and more preferably from about 1.5 mm to about 2.0 mm. In these ranges, the bulk material generally allows a draw resistance to be set that is particularly pleasant for the smoker. Specifically for sea salt, the grain size is preferably between about 2.4 mm and about 2.8 mm. Specifically for cane sugar, the grain size is preferably between about 1.8 mm and about 2.0 mm. For conventional table salt, the grain size is preferably between about 0.6 mm and about 0.8 mm.

[0019] Preferably, the bulk material has a density of between approximately 0.8 g / cm3 and approximately 1.6 g / cm3, preferably between approximately 1.0 g / cm3 and approximately 1.4 g / cm3, and more preferably between approximately 1.1 g / cm3 and approximately 1.3 g / cm3 . This allows the draw resistance to be kept within a range that is particularly pleasant for smokers, especially in combination with the above values for particle size. For a slightly lower draw resistance, as may be desired for light cigarettes, a (slightly coarser) particle size of approximately 0.9 g / cm3 to approximately 1.2 g / cm3 is preferred. For a slightly higher draw resistance, as may be desired for stronger tobacco varieties, a (slightly finer) grain size of approximately 1.2 g / cm3 to approximately 1.5 g / cm3 is preferred.

[0020] A preferred draw resistance of the filter element in the field of e-cigarettes is approximately 0.3 ohms to approximately 1.8 ohms, preferably approximately 0.4 ohms to approximately 1.2 ohms, and more preferably approximately 0.5 ohms to approximately 1.0 ohms.

[0021] A preferred draw resistance of the filter element in the field of conventional cigarettes is (due to the packing of the tobacco) approximately 1.0 ohms to approximately 1.8 ohms, preferably approximately 1.2 ohms to approximately 1.6 ohms, and more preferably approximately 1.3 ohms to approximately 1.5 ohms.

[0022] Preferably, the sleeve and / or at least one filter cap comprises aromatic substances. This allows the smoking experience to be further enhanced, for example by adding menthol or fruit flavors.

[0023] Preferably, the at least one filter cap is bonded to the sleeve at one or more bonding points. This allows for particularly efficient and cost-effective production.

[0024] Preferably, a food-grade adhesive is provided for bonding the at least one filter cap and the sleeve. This ensures that no undesirable substances are ingested by the consumer. The food-grade adhesive preferably contains water, sugar, starch, and / or other thickening agents such as pectin or agar-agar. Overall, this results in fewer toxic substances being produced during smoking, also with regard to the biodegradable materials of the sleeve and the at least one filter cap as well as the filter material, and of course especially during the decomposition of the filter element.

[0025] Preferably, a proximal filter cap (i.e., located toward the consumer's mouth) and a distal filter cap (i.e., located away from the consumer's mouth) are provided for closing the sleeve. This effectively prevents the filter material from escaping into the consumer's mouth and into the tobacco-containing part of the cigarette. However, the filter caps are naturally designed to be permeable to air and smoke.

[0026] Preferably, the proximal filter cap is made of a first material and the distal filter cap is made of a second material, wherein the first material is different from the second material. This allows for optimal adjustment of the draw resistance across the filter element. However, the same material can also be used for the proximal filter cap and for the distal filter cap.

[0027] Preferably, the proximal filter cap has passage openings and the distal filter cap also has passage openings, wherein the passage openings of the distal filter cap form a larger total passage area than the passage openings of the proximal filter cap. This allows the coordination of the draw resistance to be further improved.

[0028] In particular, the distal filter cap is designed to have a lower draw resistance than the proximal filter cap. Accordingly, the proximal filter cap is designed to have a higher draw resistance than the distal filter cap.

[0029] Preferably, the passage area formed by the passage openings of the distal filter cap is greater than the passage area of the proximal filter cap by about 10%, preferably by about 25%, and more preferably by about 50%. This measure also serves to further optimize the draw resistance.

[0030] In particular, the draw resistance of the distal filter is approximately 10%, preferably approximately 25%, and further preferably approximately 50% less than the draw resistance of the proximal filter cap.

[0031] Preferably, an overlap / bonding area of the sleeve comprises approximately 5% to approximately 30%, preferably approximately 7.5% to approximately 25%, and more preferably approximately 10% to approximately 20% of the cylinder surface of the bonded sleeve. This provides the necessary strength for bonding the sleeve seam with the food adhesive. In addition, the amount of adhesive applied in this range is usually sufficient to stabilize or strengthen the entire sleeve in its circumference and make it moisture-repellent (i.e., through penetration). This, in turn, has a positive effect on draw resistance. The sleeve can also be coated with food-grade adhesive on its outside at a later stage in order to increase the aforementioned effect if necessary.

[0032] Another aspect of the invention comprises a cigarette with a filter element as described above.

[0033] The filter element according to the invention enables cost-effective and efficient protection of the environment to be achieved, while at the same time there are no differences for the consumer in terms of handling, smoking sensation or draw resistance, so that the consumer does not miss conventional cigarettes. In addition, the filter element according to the invention can provide particular flexibility (i.e., in particular by adjusting the grain size), enabling it to be used for every type of smoker and every type of tobacco.

[0034] In metropolitan areas, the filters according to the invention can be decomposed by more than 90% within a few days due to moisture and mechanical influences (such as street sweepers, cleaning vehicles, or machines), and thus usually do not even end up in the waste disposal cycle.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0035] Further advantageous embodiments of the invention are apparent from the following description of embodiments of the invention with the aid of the schematic drawing. In particular, the filter element according to the invention is described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings on the basis of embodiments. They show:

[0036] FIG. 1: a schematic front and side view of a filter element according to the invention;

[0037] FIG. 2: a front and side cross-sectional view of a filter element according to the invention with filter material;

[0038] FIG. 3 an oblique section through a filter element according to the invention with filter material;

[0039] FIG. 4: an exemplary sectional pattern of a filter cap of a filter element according to the invention;

[0040] FIG. 5: a front view of a distal filter cap and a cross-section of a cigarette tube with a distal cap arranged therein;

[0041] FIG. 6 a front view of a proximal filter cap and a cross-section of a cigarette tube with the proximal and distal filter caps arranged therein and with filter material; and

[0042] FIG. 7 a front view of a rolled sleeve with an overlap / bonding area.METHOD(S) OF IMPLEMENTING THE INVENTION

[0043] Certain terms are used in the following description for practical reasons and are not to be understood as limiting. The words “right,”“left,”“below,” and “above” refer to directions in the drawing to which reference is made. The terms “inward,”“outward,”“below,”“above,”“left,”“right,” or similar are used to describe the arrangement of designated parts relative to each other, the movement of designated parts relative to each other, and the directions toward or away from the geometric center of the invention and designated parts thereof as shown in the figures. These spatial relative terms also include positions and orientations other than those shown in the figures. For example, if a part shown in the figures is turned upside down, elements or features described as “below” are then “above.” The terminology includes the words expressly mentioned above, derivatives thereof, and words of similar meaning.

[0044] In order to avoid repetition in the figures and the accompanying description of the various aspects and embodiments, certain features should be understood as common to different aspects and embodiments. The omission of an aspect in the description or a figure does not imply that this aspect is absent from the corresponding embodiment. Rather, such omission may serve to clarify and prevent repetition. In this context, the following stipulation applies to the entire further description: If reference symbols are included in a figure for the purpose of clarity, but are not mentioned in the immediately associated descriptive text, reference is made to their explanation in preceding figure descriptions. Furthermore, if reference symbols are mentioned in the descriptive text directly associated with a figure that are not contained in the corresponding figure, reference is made to the preceding and following figures. Similar reference symbols in two or more figures represent similar or identical elements.

[0045] FIG. 1 shows a filter element according to the invention in side and front view from the outside, i.e., with the sleeve 1 and the two filter caps 2, 2′ which are also surrounded by sleeve material. The filter caps 2, 2′ are glued to the sleeve 1.

[0046] This can be clearly seen in FIG. 2, where the filter element is shown in cross-sectional view from the front (along line X-X in FIG. 1) and from the side. The bulk material or filter material 3 is enclosed by the sleeve 1. The filter caps 2, 2′ are surrounded by sleeve material, which is glued to the outside of the sleeve 1 by means of the bonding points 4. Preferably, several bonding points or bonding locations 4 with food-grade adhesive are provided at each end of the sleeve 1. Preferably, one, two, three, four, or five or more bonding points 4 can be provided at each end of the sleeve 1. Viewed from the outside to the inside, the front view shows the sleeve material of the filter cap 2, the bonding point 4, the sleeve material of the sleeve 1, and finally the bulk material or filter material 3.

[0047] FIG. 3 shows once again the bulk material or filter material 3 enclosed by the sleeve 1. The grain size of the bulk material or filter material 3 (i.e., coarse versus fine) is decisive for the draw resistance of the respective cigarette and is an important criterion for the consumer.

[0048] FIG. 4 schematically shows the proximal filter cap 2 with the cut pattern of the biodegradable sleeve material surrounding it. An bonding point or bonding location 4 is applied to each of the four trapezoids made of the biodegradable sleeve material. This cutting pattern has proven to be particularly suitable for bonding with the sleeve 1 of the filter element according to the invention.

[0049] FIG. 5 illustrates the sleeve 1 with a distal filter cap 2′, to which a cigarette sleeve 6 is connected, which can be filled with tobacco. The proximal end of the sleeve 1 is not yet provided with a filter cap. The hatching of the distal filter cap 2′ is intended to indicate that it has a draw resistance that is smaller than the draw resistance of the proximal filter cap 2 shown in FIG. 6. Accordingly, the passage openings 5′ of the distal filter cap 2′ are generally larger than the passage openings 5 of the proximal filter cap 2.

[0050] Furthermore, the proximal filter cap 2 and the distal filter cap 2′ can be made of the same material or of different materials. In any case, both filter caps 2, 2′ are designed in such a way that no bulk material or filter material can pass through them. The two filter caps 2, 2′ and the selection of bulk material or filter material 3 allow the optimum drag resistance to be set in a particularly efficient manner, while at the same time providing a particularly environmentally friendly form of cigarette filter element.

[0051] Finally, FIG. 7 shows the overlap / bonding area 7 of a sleeve 1, i.e., the area in which the food adhesive is applied. The sleeve 1 is usually rolled once, i.e., not twice or more, as this is detrimental to rapid biodegradation. The overlap / bonding area 7 usually comprises about 5% to 30% of the cylindrical surface of the bonded sleeve 1.

[0052] The present disclosure also encompasses embodiments with any combination of features mentioned or shown above or below in various embodiments. It also encompasses individual features in the figures, even if they are shown there in connection with other features and / or are not mentioned above or below. The alternatives of embodiments described in the figures and the description and individual alternatives of their features may also be excluded from the subject matter of the invention or from the disclosed subjects. The disclosure includes embodiments that comprise exclusively the features described in the claims or in the embodiments, as well as those that comprise additional other features.

[0053] Furthermore, the term “comprise” and derivatives thereof do not exclude other elements or steps. Likewise, the indefinite article ‘a’ or “an” and derivatives thereof do not exclude a plurality. The functions of several features listed in the claims may be fulfilled by a single unit or step. The terms “essentially,”“about,”“approximately,” and the like in connection with a property or value also define the property or value precisely. The terms “about” and “approximately” in connection with a given numerical value or range may refer to a value or range that is within 20%, within 10%, within 5%, or within 2% of the given value or range.LIST OF REFERENCE SIGNS1 (Filter) sleeve

[0055] 2 Filter cap (proximal)

[0056] 2′ Filter cap (distal)

[0057] 3 Filter material

[0058] 4 Bonding points

[0059] 5 Passage openings in proximal filter cap

[0060] 5′ Passage openings in distal filter cap

[0061] 6 Cigarette sleeve

[0062] 7 Overlap / bonding area

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0043]Certain terms are used in the following description for practical reasons and are not to be understood as limiting. The words “right,”“left,”“below,” and “above” refer to directions in the drawing to which reference is made. The terms “inward,”“outward,”“below,”“above,”“left,”“right,” or similar are used to describe the arrangement of designated parts relative to each other, the movement of designated parts relative to each other, and the directions toward or away from the geometric center of the invention and designated parts thereof as shown in the figures. These spatial relative terms also include positions and orientations other than those shown in the figures. For example, if a part shown in the figures is turned upside down, elements or features described as “below” are then “above.” The terminology includes the words expressly mentioned above, derivatives thereof, and words of similar meaning.

[0044]In order to avoid repetition in the figures and the accompanying descrip...

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The invention relates to a filter element for cigarettes, comprising a sleeve for receiving filter material, at least one filter cap for closing the sleeve, and filter material for filtering cigarette smoke.

[0002] Even today, improperly disposed cigarette filters still represent a considerable littering factor. The term “littering” is generally understood to mean the careless discarding or leaving of small pieces of waste in public spaces.

[0003] In this context, it should be specifically mentioned that an average of around 5.6 trillion cigarettes are consumed worldwide each year. Of these, an estimated 4.5 trillion cigarette filters are disposed of improperly. In the city of Paris alone, this amounts to approximately 350 tons of cigarette butts per year.

[0004] These are also classified as highly environmentally hazardous or toxic, as they contain tar, nicotine, arsenic, and lead, i.e., toxins that enter the environment through improper disposal.

[0005] Conventional cigarette filters are usually made of cellulose acetate. This is a thermoplastic that is degradable but not biodegradable. A cigarette filter consists of around 12,000 such thermoplastic fibers.

[0006] There are also filters made of natural fibers (e.g., cellulose) that can exhibit increased degradability under certain circumstances.PRIOR ART

[0007] US 2015 / 0374030 A1 describes a biodegradable cigarette filter cable comprising a mixture of at least two or more natural materials. These materials are selected from a group consisting of hemp fibers, flax fibers, abaca fibers or pulp, sisal fibers or pulp, wood pulp, and cotton fibers or cotton flakes. The mixture may also contain regenerated cellulose fibers. The mixture may contain a natural binder or be water jet bonded.

[0008] EP 4 169 394 A1 discloses a mouthpiece or filter element (e.g., for a smoking article such as a cigarette or a tobacco heating product) comprising a hollow tube extending in the longitudinal direction made of paper or another biodegradable material, as well as a layer comprising paper filter material and / or other biodegradable filter material, which is placed around the hollow tube. Finally, the mouthpiece or filter element also has a covering which is placed around the layer and comprises paper filter material and / or other biodegradable filter material.

[0009] DE 20 2009 006 891 U1 describes a recyclable cigarette filter for cigarette tubes and finished cigarettes, in which the wrapping paper of the cigarette filter has a constant length of 15 mm and a constant diameter of 8 mm, but in which the filling varies.

[0010] However, even after several weeks, these solutions do not completely break down cigarette filters and cannot provide sufficiently variable draw resistance.

[0011] It is therefore the object of the present invention to create a filter element for cigarettes that is more environmentally friendly and allows the draw resistance to be adjusted efficiently to suit the smoker's preferences.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0012] The object is solved by a filter element for cigarettes as defined in independent claim 1. Advantageous embodiments of the invention are described in the dependent claims.

[0013] The essence of the invention is as follows: A filter element for cigarettes, with a sleeve for receiving filter material, at least one filter cap for closing the sleeve, and filter material for filtering cigarette smoke. The sleeve and / or the at least one filter cap are made of a biodegradable material, and the filter material is made of a biodegradable bulk material.

[0014] The term “cigarettes” in this context includes conventional and electric cigarettes as well as cigarette sleeves. A cigarette sleeve generally consists of pre-rolled cigarette paper with an integrated cigarette filter as a mouthpiece. By inserting tobacco into the empty cigarette sleeve, a cigarette can be made by the user himself.

[0015] The sleeve and the at least one filter cap are usually separate components of the filter element, but a one-piece design is also conceivable.

[0016] Preferably, the biodegradable material of the sleeve and / or the at least one filter cap comprises flax, hemp, in particular Manila hemp, jute, sisal, coconut, bamboo, starch, and / or cellulose. These materials for the filter element sleeve have proven to be particularly suitable in terms of the fastest possible degradability.

[0017] Preferably, the biodegradable bulk material of the filter material comprises salt, sugar, activated carbon, and / or sand. These materials are extremely rapidly degradable (and fundamentally environmentally friendly) and have proven themselves in terms of variable adjustment of the draw resistance. In particular, these materials (i.e., especially in combination with the above sleeve materials) can be used to exploit the influences that are determined by the weather and waste disposal in everyday urban reality (i.e., moisture, mechanical processing, and bacteria) in order to achieve the fastest possible decomposition. In other words, the filter elements should be made of readily available and accessible raw materials and should actually be degradable within a very short time under real conditions. Ideally, this should happen before final disposal in a landfill.

[0018] Preferably, the grain size of the bulk material is from about 0.5 mm to about 3.0 mm, preferably from about 1.0 mm to about 2.5 mm, and more preferably from about 1.5 mm to about 2.0 mm. In these ranges, the bulk material generally allows a draw resistance to be set that is particularly pleasant for the smoker. Specifically for sea salt, the grain size is preferably between about 2.4 mm and about 2.8 mm. Specifically for cane sugar, the grain size is preferably between about 1.8 mm and about 2.0 mm. For conventional table salt, the grain size is preferably between about 0.6 mm and about 0.8 mm.

[0019] Preferably, the bulk material has a density of between approximately 0.8 g / cm3 and approximately 1.6 g / cm3, preferably between approximately 1.0 g / cm3 and approximately 1.4 g / cm3, and more preferably between approximately 1.1 g / cm3 and approximately 1.3 g / cm3 . This allows the draw resistance to be kept within a range that is particularly pleasant for smokers, especially in combination with the above values for particle size. For a slightly lower draw resistance, as may be desired for light cigarettes, a (slightly coarser) particle size of approximately 0.9 g / cm3 to approximately 1.2 g / cm3 is preferred. For a slightly higher draw resistance, as may be desired for stronger tobacco varieties, a (slightly finer) grain size of approximately 1.2 g / cm3 to approximately 1.5 g / cm3 is preferred.

[0020] A preferred draw resistance of the filter element in the field of e-cigarettes is approximately 0.3 ohms to approximately 1.8 ohms, preferably approximately 0.4 ohms to approximately 1.2 ohms, and more preferably approximately 0.5 ohms to approximately 1.0 ohms.

[0021] A preferred draw resistance of the filter element in the field of conventional cigarettes is (due to the packing of the tobacco) approximately 1.0 ohms to approximately 1.8 ohms, preferably approximately 1.2 ohms to approximately 1.6 ohms, and more preferably approximately 1.3 ohms to approximately 1.5 ohms.

[0022] Preferably, the sleeve and / or at least one filter cap comprises aromatic substances. This allows the smoking experience to be further enhanced, for example by adding menthol or fruit flavors.

[0023] Preferably, the at least one filter cap is bonded to the sleeve at one or more bonding points. This allows for particularly efficient and cost-effective production.

[0024] Preferably, a food-grade adhesive is provided for bonding the at least one filter cap and the sleeve. This ensures that no undesirable substances are ingested by the consumer. The food-grade adhesive preferably contains water, sugar, starch, and / or other thickening agents such as pectin or agar-agar. Overall, this results in fewer toxic substances being produced during smoking, also with regard to the biodegradable materials of the sleeve and the at least one filter cap as well as the filter material, and of course especially during the decomposition of the filter element.

[0025] Preferably, a proximal filter cap (i.e., located toward the consumer's mouth) and a distal filter cap (i.e., located away from the consumer's mouth) are provided for closing the sleeve. This effectively prevents the filter material from escaping into the consumer's mouth and into the tobacco-containing part of the cigarette. However, the filter caps are naturally designed to be permeable to air and smoke.

[0026] Preferably, the proximal filter cap is made of a first material and the distal filter cap is made of a second material, wherein the first material is different from the second material. This allows for optimal adjustment of the draw resistance across the filter element. However, the same material can also be used for the proximal filter cap and for the distal filter cap.

[0027] Preferably, the proximal filter cap has passage openings and the distal filter cap also has passage openings, wherein the passage openings of the distal filter cap form a larger total passage area than the passage openings of the proximal filter cap. This allows the coordination of the draw resistance to be further improved.

[0028] In particular, the distal filter cap is designed to have a lower draw resistance than the proximal filter cap. Accordingly, the proximal filter cap is designed to have a higher draw resistance than the distal filter cap.

[0029] Preferably, the passage area formed by the passage openings of the distal filter cap is greater than the passage area of the proximal filter cap by about 10%, preferably by about 25%, and more preferably by about 50%. This measure also serves to further optimize the draw resistance.

[0030] In particular, the draw resistance of the distal filter is approximately 10%, preferably approximately 25%, and further preferably approximately 50% less than the draw resistance of the proximal filter cap.

[0031] Preferably, an overlap / bonding area of the sleeve comprises approximately 5% to approximately 30%, preferably approximately 7.5% to approximately 25%, and more preferably approximately 10% to approximately 20% of the cylinder surface of the bonded sleeve. This provides the necessary strength for bonding the sleeve seam with the food adhesive. In addition, the amount of adhesive applied in this range is usually sufficient to stabilize or strengthen the entire sleeve in its circumference and make it moisture-repellent (i.e., through penetration). This, in turn, has a positive effect on draw resistance. The sleeve can also be coated with food-grade adhesive on its outside at a later stage in order to increase the aforementioned effect if necessary.

[0032] Another aspect of the invention comprises a cigarette with a filter element as described above.

[0033] The filter element according to the invention enables cost-effective and efficient protection of the environment to be achieved, while at the same time there are no differences for the consumer in terms of handling, smoking sensation or draw resistance, so that the consumer does not miss conventional cigarettes. In addition, the filter element according to the invention can provide particular flexibility (i.e., in particular by adjusting the grain size), enabling it to be used for every type of smoker and every type of tobacco.

[0034] In metropolitan areas, the filters according to the invention can be decomposed by more than 90% within a few days due to moisture and mechanical influences (such as street sweepers, cleaning vehicles, or machines), and thus usually do not even end up in the waste disposal cycle.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0035] Further advantageous embodiments of the invention are apparent from the following description of embodiments of the invention with the aid of the schematic drawing. In particular, the filter element according to the invention is described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings on the basis of embodiments. They show:

[0036] FIG. 1: a schematic front and side view of a filter element according to the invention;

[0037] FIG. 2: a front and side cross-sectional view of a filter element according to the invention with filter material;

[0038] FIG. 3 an oblique section through a filter element according to the invention with filter material;

[0039] FIG. 4: an exemplary sectional pattern of a filter cap of a filter element according to the invention;

[0040] FIG. 5: a front view of a distal filter cap and a cross-section of a cigarette tube with a distal cap arranged therein;

[0041] FIG. 6 a front view of a proximal filter cap and a cross-section of a cigarette tube with the proximal and distal filter caps arranged therein and with filter material; and

[0042] FIG. 7 a front view of a rolled sleeve with an overlap / bonding area.METHOD(S) OF IMPLEMENTING THE INVENTION

[0043] Certain terms are used in the following description for practical reasons and are not to be understood as limiting. The words “right,”“left,”“below,” and “above” refer to directions in the drawing to which reference is made. The terms “inward,”“outward,”“below,”“above,”“left,”“right,” or similar are used to describe the arrangement of designated parts relative to each other, the movement of designated parts relative to each other, and the directions toward or away from the geometric center of the invention and designated parts thereof as shown in the figures. These spatial relative terms also include positions and orientations other than those shown in the figures. For example, if a part shown in the figures is turned upside down, elements or features described as “below” are then “above.” The terminology includes the words expressly mentioned above, derivatives thereof, and words of similar meaning.

[0044] In order to avoid repetition in the figures and the accompanying description of the various aspects and embodiments, certain features should be understood as common to different aspects and embodiments. The omission of an aspect in the description or a figure does not imply that this aspect is absent from the corresponding embodiment. Rather, such omission may serve to clarify and prevent repetition. In this context, the following stipulation applies to the entire further description: If reference symbols are included in a figure for the purpose of clarity, but are not mentioned in the immediately associated descriptive text, reference is made to their explanation in preceding figure descriptions. Furthermore, if reference symbols are mentioned in the descriptive text directly associated with a figure that are not contained in the corresponding figure, reference is made to the preceding and following figures. Similar reference symbols in two or more figures represent similar or identical elements.

[0045] FIG. 1 shows a filter element according to the invention in side and front view from the outside, i.e., with the sleeve 1 and the two filter caps 2, 2′ which are also surrounded by sleeve material. The filter caps 2, 2′ are glued to the sleeve 1.

[0046] This can be clearly seen in FIG. 2, where the filter element is shown in cross-sectional view from the front (along line X-X in FIG. 1) and from the side. The bulk material or filter material 3 is enclosed by the sleeve 1. The filter caps 2, 2′ are surrounded by sleeve material, which is glued to the outside of the sleeve 1 by means of the bonding points 4. Preferably, several bonding points or bonding locations 4 with food-grade adhesive are provided at each end of the sleeve 1. Preferably, one, two, three, four, or five or more bonding points 4 can be provided at each end of the sleeve 1. Viewed from the outside to the inside, the front view shows the sleeve material of the filter cap 2, the bonding point 4, the sleeve material of the sleeve 1, and finally the bulk material or filter material 3.

[0047] FIG. 3 shows once again the bulk material or filter material 3 enclosed by the sleeve 1. The grain size of the bulk material or filter material 3 (i.e., coarse versus fine) is decisive for the draw resistance of the respective cigarette and is an important criterion for the consumer.

[0048] FIG. 4 schematically shows the proximal filter cap 2 with the cut pattern of the biodegradable sleeve material surrounding it. An bonding point or bonding location 4 is applied to each of the four trapezoids made of the biodegradable sleeve material. This cutting pattern has proven to be particularly suitable for bonding with the sleeve 1 of the filter element according to the invention.

[0049] FIG. 5 illustrates the sleeve 1 with a distal filter cap 2′, to which a cigarette sleeve 6 is connected, which can be filled with tobacco. The proximal end of the sleeve 1 is not yet provided with a filter cap. The hatching of the distal filter cap 2′ is intended to indicate that it has a draw resistance that is smaller than the draw resistance of the proximal filter cap 2 shown in FIG. 6. Accordingly, the passage openings 5′ of the distal filter cap 2′ are generally larger than the passage openings 5 of the proximal filter cap 2.

[0050] Furthermore, the proximal filter cap 2 and the distal filter cap 2′ can be made of the same material or of different materials. In any case, both filter caps 2, 2′ are designed in such a way that no bulk material or filter material can pass through them. The two filter caps 2, 2′ and the selection of bulk material or filter material 3 allow the optimum drag resistance to be set in a particularly efficient manner, while at the same time providing a particularly environmentally friendly form of cigarette filter element.

[0051] Finally, FIG. 7 shows the overlap / bonding area 7 of a sleeve 1, i.e., the area in which the food adhesive is applied. The sleeve 1 is usually rolled once, i.e., not twice or more, as this is detrimental to rapid biodegradation. The overlap / bonding area 7 usually comprises about 5% to 30% of the cylindrical surface of the bonded sleeve 1.

[0052] The present disclosure also encompasses embodiments with any combination of features mentioned or shown above or below in various embodiments. It also encompasses individual features in the figures, even if they are shown there in connection with other features and / or are not mentioned above or below. The alternatives of embodiments described in the figures and the description and individual alternatives of their features may also be excluded from the subject matter of the invention or from the disclosed subjects. The disclosure includes embodiments that comprise exclusively the features described in the claims or in the embodiments, as well as those that comprise additional other features.

[0053] Furthermore, the term “comprise” and derivatives thereof do not exclude other elements or steps. Likewise, the indefinite article ‘a’ or “an” and derivatives thereof do not exclude a plurality. The functions of several features listed in the claims may be fulfilled by a single unit or step. The terms “essentially,”“about,”“approximately,” and the like in connection with a property or value also define the property or value precisely. The terms “about” and “approximately” in connection with a given numerical value or range may refer to a value or range that is within 20%, within 10%, within 5%, or within 2% of the given value or range.LIST OF REFERENCE SIGNS1 (Filter) sleeve

[0055] 2 Filter cap (proximal)

[0056] 2′ Filter cap (distal)

[0057] 3 Filter material

[0058] 4 Bonding points

[0059] 5 Passage openings in proximal filter cap

[0060] 5′ Passage openings in distal filter cap

[0061] 6 Cigarette sleeve

[0062] 7 Overlap / bonding area

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0043]Certain terms are used in the following description for practical reasons and are not to be understood as limiting. The words “right,”“left,”“below,” and “above” refer to directions in the drawing to which reference is made. The terms “inward,”“outward,”“below,”“above,”“left,”“right,” or similar are used to describe the arrangement of designated parts relative to each other, the movement of designated parts relative to each other, and the directions toward or away from the geometric center of the invention and designated parts thereof as shown in the figures. These spatial relative terms also include positions and orientations other than those shown in the figures. For example, if a part shown in the figures is turned upside down, elements or features described as “below” are then “above.” The terminology includes the words expressly mentioned above, derivatives thereof, and words of similar meaning.

[0044]In order to avoid repetition in the figures and the accompanying descrip...

Claims

1: A filter element for cigarettes, comprising a sleeve for receiving filter material, at least one filter cap for closing the sleeve, and filter material for filtering cigarette smoke, wherein the sleeve and / or the at least one filter cap are made of a biodegradable material and the filter material is made of a biodegradable bulk material, wherein the biodegradable bulk material of the filter material comprises salt and / or sugar, characterized in that the grain size of the bulk material is from about 0.5 mm to about 3.0 mm, preferably from about 1.0 mm to about 2.5 mm, andmore preferably from about 1.5 mm to about 2.0 mm, and that the bulk material has a density of about 0.8 g / cm3 to about 1.6 g / cm3, preferably from about 1.0 g / cm3 to about 1.4 g / cm3 and more preferably from about 1.1 g / cm3 to about 1.3 g / cm3.2: The filter element according to claim 1, characterized in that the biodegradable material of the sleeve and / or the at least one filter cap comprises flax, hemp, in particular Manila hemp, jute, sisal, coconut, bamboo, starch, and / or cellulose.3: The filter element according to claim 1, characterized in that the sleeve and / or the at least one filter cap comprises aromatic substances.4: The filter element according to claim 1, characterized in that the at least one filter cap is bonded to the sleeve at one or more bonding points.5: The filter element according to claim 1, characterized in that a food-grade adhesive is provided for bonding the at least one filter cap and the sleeve.6: The filter element according to claim 1, characterized in that a proximal filter cap and a distal filter cap are provided for closing the sleeve.7: The filter element according to claim 1, characterized in that the proximal filter cap is formed from a first material and the distal filter cap is formed from a second material, wherein the first material is different from the second material.8: The filter element according to claim 1, characterized in that the proximal filter cap has passage openings and the distal filter cap has passage openings, wherein the passage openings of the distal filter cap form a larger total passage area than the passage openings of the proximal filter cap.9: The filter element according to claim 1, characterized in that the passage area formed by the passage openings of the distal filter cap is more than 10%, preferably more than 25%, and more preferably more than 50% larger than the passage area of the proximal filter cap (2).10: The filter element according to claim 1, characterized in that the draw resistance in the field of e-cigarettes is approximately 0.3 ohms to approximately 1.8 ohms, preferably approximately 0.4 ohms to approximately 1.2 ohms, and more preferably approximately 0.5 ohms to approximately 1.0 ohms.11: The filter element according to claim 1, characterized in that the draw resistance in the field of conventional cigarettes is approximately 1.0 ohms to approximately 1.8 ohms, preferably approximately 1.2 ohms to approximately 1.6 ohms, and more preferably approximately 1.3 ohms to approximately 1.5 ohms.12: The filter element according to claim 1, characterized in that an overlap / bonding area of the sleeve comprises approximately 5% to approximately 30%, preferably approximately 7.5% to approximately 25%, more preferably approximately 10% to approximately 20% of the cylindrical surface area of the bonded sleeve.13: A cigarette with a filter element according to claim 1.

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