Smoking article comprising lyocell tow

Abstract

Provided is a smoking article comprising a lyocell tow including a plurality of lyocell fibers. The smoking article comprises: a medium part; a cooling structure spaced apart from one side of the medium part; and a support structure disposed between the medium part and the cooling structure, wherein the support structure comprises a lyocell tow including a plurality of lyocell fibers.

Description

Smoking articles containing lyocell tow

[0001] The present invention relates to a smoking article that can provide a user with an improved smoking experience by applying lyocell tow to the support structure of the smoking article, thereby preventing the support structure from melting due to high temperatures applied to heat the smoking article.

[0002]

[0003] In smoking devices, the transfer of tobacco components (e.g., nicotine, tar) and the generation of vapor (atom) significantly impact the user's smoking experience. Typically, smoking devices operate by heating a stick to a high temperature of approximately 150-300°C using a device. This heat is then transferred to a medium, which increases the temperature of the medium, allowing the smooth transfer of tobacco components such as nicotine. During this process, substances such as glycerin are heated to generate vapor, which is then delivered to the user for inhalation. However, if the device is set to a temperature below the boiling point of glycerin, atomization does not occur smoothly, limiting the transfer of tobacco components.

[0004] To solve this problem, a method has been adopted in the past to reduce discomfort caused by hot smoke when a user inhales by constructing a support structure made of cellulose acetate (hereinafter abbreviated as "CA") tow, which is a tubular structure with a hollow cavity formed in a smoking article.

[0005] When cellulose acetate tow is used in the cooling section used in the past, the CA tow melts or deforms at a temperature of about 70℃ or higher and then solidifies again, which causes problems such as the smooth transfer of smoke, the generation of negative odors, and the inability to properly perform the cooling function.

[0006] Therefore, to improve the performance of smoking devices, materials capable of withstanding heating temperatures of approximately 200-300°C are required to ensure smooth atomization and transfer of tobacco components. These materials must not melt or deform at high temperatures, yet effectively cool or reduce the temperature of the smoke, enhancing the user's smoking experience. Furthermore, materials that minimize dilution of tobacco components during the cooling process and deliver sufficient tar and nicotine during inhalation are required.

[0007]

[0008] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a smoking article comprising a medium portion, a support structure, a cooling structure, and a mouthpiece portion, wherein the support structure is formed of lyocell tow composed of a plurality of lyocell fibers, thereby preventing or minimizing deformation of the support structure due to heat transferred from a heater that heats the smoking article or an aerosol generated within the smoking article due to the excellent heat resistance of the lyocell tow.

[0009] Another problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a smoking article comprising a medium, a support structure, a cooling structure, and a mouthpiece, wherein the support structure is formed of lyocell tow made of a plurality of lyocell fibers, thereby effectively reducing the amount of moisture transferred during smoking due to the excellent moisture affinity of the lyocell tow, thereby reducing the heat sensation felt by the user and maximizing the cooling effect.

[0010] Another problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a smoking article including a support structure, a medium part, a cooling structure, and a mouthpiece part, which includes lyocell tow made of a plurality of lyocell fibers and a binder, wherein the smoking article can stably maintain its shape even though the support structure is a tubular structure made of lyocell tow by imparting appropriate hardness to the lyocell tow through the binder.

[0011] The technical problems of the present invention are not limited to the technical problems mentioned above, and other technical problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains from the description below.

[0012]

[0013] A smoking article according to one aspect of the present application for solving the above problem comprises a medium portion, a cooling structure spaced apart from one side of the medium portion, and a support structure disposed between the medium portion and the cooling structure, wherein the support structure comprises lyocell tow including a plurality of lyocell fibers.

[0014] In some embodiments, the lyocell tow of the support structure may have a tube shape with a hollow cavity formed therein.

[0015] In some embodiments, the support structure may further comprise at least one binder dispersed in the lyocell tow.

[0016] In some embodiments, the binder may include at least one of a cellulose-based binder, a vinyl-based binder, a polyester-based binder, a dextrin-based binder, and a starch-based binder.

[0017] In some embodiments, the binder may comprise at least one dextrin-based binder.

[0018] In some embodiments, the inner diameter of the support structure may be 10% to 90% of the outer diameter of the support structure.

[0019] In some embodiments, the outer diameter of the support structure may be between 6 mm and 10 mm.

[0020] In some embodiments, the inner diameter of the support structure may be from 2 mm to 5.5 mm.

[0021] In some embodiments, the outer diameter of the support structure may be from 6 mm to 10 mm, and the inner diameter of the support structure may be from 2 mm to 5.5 mm.

[0022] In some embodiments, the inner diameter of the support structure may be 10% to 90% of the outer diameter of the support structure, the outer diameter of the support structure may be 6 mm to 10 mm, and the inner diameter of the support structure may be 2 mm to 5.5 mm.

[0023] In some embodiments, one end of the support structure may be in contact with the cooling structure.

[0024] In some embodiments, the other end located on the opposite side of the one side of the support structure may be in contact with the medium.

[0025] In some embodiments, the cooling structure may have a tube shape with a hollow space formed therein.

[0026] In some embodiments, the cooling structure has a tube shape with a hollow space formed therein, and the hollow space of the cooling structure and the hollow space of the support structure can be communicated with each other.

[0027] In some embodiments, the support structure has one end located on one side of the support structure in contact with the cooling structure, and the other end located on the other side opposite the one side is in contact with the medium, and the cooling structure has a tube shape with a hollow space formed therein, and the hollow space of the cooling structure and the hollow space of the support structure can be communicated with each other.

[0028] In some embodiments, the cooling structure may include at least one of a tubular structure made of paper material, a tubular structure made of cellulose acetate material, and a tubular structure made of lyocell material.

[0029] In some embodiments, the smoking article may further include a mouthpiece portion disposed on one side (i.e., downstream) of the support structure with the cooling structure interposed therebetween.

[0030] In some embodiments, the smoking article may further include a mouthpiece portion disposed on the one side of the cooling structure; and a wrapper surrounding at least a portion of the medium portion, the support structure, the cooling structure, and the mouthpiece portion.

[0031] In another aspect of the present application, a system is provided comprising the smoking article described above and an aerosol generating device applying the same.

[0032] In another aspect of the present application, a method of manufacturing the smoking article described above is provided.

[0033]

[0034] According to a smoking article according to one embodiment, by configuring the support structure with lyocell tow made of a plurality of lyocell fibers, the excellent heat resistance of the lyocell tow can effectively prevent or minimize deformation of the support structure due to heat transferred from a heater that heats the smoking article or an aerosol generated within the smoking article.

[0035] In addition, according to a smoking article according to one embodiment, by configuring the support structure with lyocell tow composed of a plurality of lyocell fibers, the amount of moisture transferred during smoking is effectively reduced due to the superior moisture affinity characteristics of lyocell tow compared to cellulose acetate tow, thereby reducing the heat sensation felt by the user and improving the cooling effect.

[0036] In addition, according to a smoking article according to one embodiment, by manufacturing a support structure including lyocell tow made of a plurality of lyocell fibers and a binder, it is possible to impart appropriate hardness to the lyocell tow through the binder. As a result, the support structure can have the effect of stably maintaining its shape even though it is a tubular structure made of lyocell tow, and due to the stable maintenance of the shape of the support structure, it is possible to prevent the support structure from being deformed during storage or smoking of the smoking article, thereby deteriorating the quality of the smoking experience.

[0037] In addition, according to a smoking article according to one embodiment, the quality of the user's smoking experience can be improved by forming the cooling structure with lyocell tow instead of paper that may generate an unpleasant odor when heated.

[0038] The effects according to the technical idea of ​​the present disclosure are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description below.

[0039]

[0040] FIG. 1 is a schematic drawing of a smoking article according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] FIG. 2 is a schematic drawing of a smoking article according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] FIG. 3 is a photograph of the support structure of Example 1 and the support structure of Comparative Example 2. FIG. 3(a) is a photograph of the support structure of Comparative Example 1 and Example 1 before the experiment (before smoking), and FIG. 3(b) is a photograph of the support structure of Comparative Example 1 and Example 1 after the experiment (after smoking).

[0043] Figures 4 to 6 illustrate various types of aerosol generating devices to which smoking articles according to some embodiments of the present disclosure may be applied.

[0044]

[0045] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. The advantages and features of the present disclosure, and methods for achieving them, will become clearer with reference to the embodiments described in detail below together with the attached drawings. However, the technical idea of ​​the present disclosure is not limited to the following embodiments and may be implemented in various different forms. The following embodiments are provided only to complete the technical idea of ​​the present disclosure and to fully inform those skilled in the art of the present disclosure of the scope of the present disclosure, and the technical idea of ​​the present disclosure is defined only by the scope of the claims.

[0046] When assigning reference numerals to components in each drawing, it should be noted that identical components are assigned the same numerals whenever possible, even if they appear on different drawings. Furthermore, when describing the present disclosure, if a detailed description of a related known configuration or function is deemed likely to obscure the gist of the present disclosure, such detailed description will be omitted.

[0047] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein may be used in the same sense as commonly understood by those of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains. Furthermore, terms defined in commonly used dictionaries are not to be interpreted ideally or excessively unless explicitly and specifically defined otherwise. The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing embodiments and is not intended to limit the disclosure. In this specification, singular forms also include plural forms, unless specifically stated otherwise.

[0048] Additionally, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), (b), etc. may be used to describe components of the present disclosure. These terms are only intended to distinguish the components from other components, and the nature, order, or sequence of the components are not limited by the terms. When a component is described as being "connected," "coupled," or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that the component may be directly connected or connected to the other component, but another component may also be "connected," "coupled," or "connected" between each component.

[0049] As used herein, the terms “comprises” and / or “comprising” do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other components, steps, operations and / or elements.

[0050] First, let's clarify some terms used in this specification.

[0051] As used herein, the term "smoking article" may mean any smokeable product or any product capable of providing a smoking experience, whether based on tobacco, tobacco derivatives, expanded tobacco, reconstituted tobacco, or tobacco substitutes. For example, smoking articles may include smokeable products such as cigarettes, cigars, and cigarillos.

[0052] In this specification, “smoking material” may mean any type of material that can be used in smoking articles.

[0053] In this specification, the term “user” may be used interchangeably with “consumer.”

[0054] In this specification, “upstream” or “upstream direction” may mean a direction away from the smoker’s mouth, and “downstream” or “downstream direction” may mean a direction approaching the smoker’s mouth.

[0055] As used herein, the term "longitudinal direction" may refer to a direction corresponding to the longitudinal axis of a smoking article. The "longitudinal axis" of a smoking article may refer to an imaginary line extending along the main longitudinal direction of the smoking article. This axis typically extends from one end of the smoking article (e.g., the mouthpiece or filter end) to the opposite end (e.g., the combustion or heat source end).

[0056] As used herein, “lyocell filter” refers to a filter comprising or consisting of lyocell tow.

[0057] As used herein, “Lyocell tow” refers to a bundle comprising or consisting of a plurality of Lyocell fibers. In some embodiments, Lyocell tow may refer to a bundle formed by cross-linking adjacent Lyocell fibers.

[0058] As used herein, “Lyocell fiber” may mean a fiber made from lyocell cellulose. In particular, the lyocell fiber may be a fiber made from cellulose derived from or primarily derived from wood pulp, particularly a semi-synthetic fiber.

[0059] In this specification, “reconstituted tobacco leaves” may mean reconstituted tobacco leaves.

[0060] As used herein, the term "reconstituted tobacco leaf" or "reconstituted tobacco sheet" may refer to a sheet made by combining tobacco by-products selected from the group consisting of stems, dust, particulates, and combinations thereof with a binder. In some embodiments, the reconstituted tobacco leaf is homogenized tobacco leaf.

[0061] In this specification, “hollow” may mean a channel extending along the longitudinal direction.

[0062] In this specification, "consisting of" an element may mean including or consisting of that element.

[0063] In this specification, a “recess filter” as a filter may refer to a filter including one or more pores.

[0064] In this specification, “wrapping” of a medium portion, a support structure, a cooling structure and / or a mouthpiece portion, etc. by a wrapper may refer to at least a portion of the peripheral surface of the longitudinal axis of the medium portion, the support structure, the cooling structure and / or the mouthpiece portion, etc. being surrounded by the wrapper.

[0065] In this specification, the hardness of the support structure is a value that quantifies the degree to which the diameter of the support structure is maintained when the support structure is pressed with a certain level of force in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the support structure, and may be a percentage of the diameter of the support structure after the force is applied compared to the diameter of the support structure before the force is applied. For example, the hardness (%) of the support structure can be calculated as (Da) / D × 100%. Here, D is the diameter of the support structure, and a represents the distance lowered by a weight of 300 g (i.e., the support structure is pressed). The measurement value required in calculating the hardness is, for example, DHT200 of Filtrona. TMcan be obtained using. In measuring the hardness, the force applied to the support structure can be considered as a value equivalent to the force applied when an actual user holds a smoking article.

[0066] A filter of a smoking article according to one aspect of the present invention can capture at least a portion of smoke components generated when smoking the smoking article. In some embodiments, the filter of the smoking article can capture particulate matter (total particulate matter (TPM)) including at least a portion of at least one of nicotine (hereinafter abbreviated as “Nic”), tar, propylene glycol (hereinafter abbreviated as “PG”), and glycerin (hereinafter abbreviated as “Gly”) contained in the smoke components generated when smoking the smoking article.

[0067] In this specification, “suction resistance” means the static pressure difference between the two ends of a sample when an airflow crosses the sample. In this specification, “PDC” means the value of the suction resistance measured when the medium part is open, the perforations of the filter part are blocked, and the inflow of outside air is blocked, and “PDO” means the value of the suction resistance measured when the medium part is open, the perforations of the filter part are not blocked, and the inflow of outside air is allowed. For example, the suction resistance can be measured using the method specified in ISO standard 6565:2015. According to ISO standard 6565:2015, the suction resistance can mean the static pressure difference between the two ends of a sample when it is crossed by an airflow under normal conditions (22±2℃, 60±5% relative humidity) with a volumetric flow rate of 17.5 mm / s at the discharge end.

[0068] In this specification, organic acid is a general term for organic compounds that are acidic.

[0069] In some embodiments, room temperature may mean 20° C. to 25° C.

[0070] In this specification, when no separate physical quantity is indicated, component % and component ratio mean weight % of component and weight ratio of component, respectively.

[0071] As used herein, "puff" refers to the act of inhaling or drawing air through a smoking article to produce and inhale smoke or vapor. "Puff count" may refer to the total number of inhalations or draws made while using the smoking article. Alternatively, or in addition, the puff count may refer to the maximum number of inhalations or draws that the smoking article can provide before being completely consumed or ceases to function.

[0072] In this specification, the HC (Health Canada) conditions may be conditions in which the puff volume per puff is 55 ml, the puff frequency is every 30 seconds, and the puff duration is 2 seconds. In particular, the HC conditions may be conditions in which the perforations of the filter are blocked. The number of puffs measured under the HC conditions may be conditions in which 9 puffs are taken.

[0073] In this specification, the "ventilation rate (hereinafter may be abbreviated as "Vent")" of a smoking article may be defined as the ratio, expressed as a percentage, of the total volumetric flow rate (e.g., ml / s) of air that enters the smoking article without being burned or heated, i.e., through the front area of ​​the smoking article, i.e., the longitudinal upstream end, to the total volumetric flow rate (e.g., ml / s) of air at the outlet of the smoking article, i.e., the longitudinal downstream end. For example, the ventilation rate may be measured according to ISO 9512:2019. For example, the total volumetric flow rate of air that enters the smoking article without being burned or heated, i.e., through the front area of ​​the smoking article, may be the total volumetric flow rate of air that enters in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the smoking article. For example, the total volumetric flow rate of air that enters the smoking article without being burned or heated, i.e., through the wrapper, may be the total volumetric flow rate of air that enters the smoking article through the wrapper.

[0074] The content of components in the total particulate matter (TPM) of the captured smoke can be analyzed using GC / MS (gas chromatography-mass spectrometry). For example, in the case of tar or nicotine, the Cambridge filter (Cambridge Felter Pad (CFP)) containing the smoke components is immersed in IPA (Isopropyl Alcohol) for a specified period of time (e.g., 20 minutes to 16 hours), and in the case of PG and Gly, the Cambridge filter (Cambridge Felter Pad (CFP)) containing the smoke components is immersed in methanol for a specified period of time (e.g., 2 hours to 16 hours), and then treated with a shaker device and passed through a PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene) syringe filter to remove impurities. Then, the content of components contained in the total particulate matter (TPM) of the captured smoke can be measured using GC / MS equipment. The soaking time may be more than 20 minutes, especially for tar or nicotine, and more than 2 hours for PG and Gly.

[0075] The above GC / MS may be, for example, a measuring device from Agilent.

[0076] Hereinafter, various embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0077] FIG. 1 is a schematic drawing of a smoking article according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is a schematic drawing of a smoking article according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0078] Referring to FIG. 1, a smoking article (100) may include a medium portion (110), a support structure (120), and a cooling structure (130). In some embodiments, the smoking article (100) may further include a mouthpiece portion (140) and / or a wrapper (150). In particular, the smoking article (100) may include a medium portion (110), a cooling structure (130) disposed on one side of the medium portion (110) and spaced apart from the medium portion (110), and a support structure (120) disposed between the medium portion (110) and the cooling structure (130). The cooling structure (130) may be disposed spaced apart from one end of the medium portion (110) along the longitudinal direction of the medium portion (110). In some embodiments, the smoking article (100) may further include a mouthpiece portion (140) disposed on one side (i.e., downstream side) of the support structure (120) with the cooling structure (130) interposed therebetween. That is, the smoking article (100) may further include a mouthpiece portion (140) disposed in an opposite direction of the support structure (120) with respect to the cooling structure (130). In some embodiments, the smoking article (100) may further include a wrapper (150) that surrounds at least a portion of the medium portion (110), the support structure (120), the cooling structure (130), and the mouthpiece portion (140). That is, the smoking article (100) may be arranged in the following order along the longitudinal direction of the smoking article (100): the medium portion (110), the support structure (120), the cooling structure (130), and optionally, the mouthpiece portion (140).

[0079] The medium (110) may include an aerosol-forming substrate. The medium (110) may generate an aerosol when heated by including the aerosol-forming substrate. The length of the medium (110) may be about 10 mm to 14 mm (e.g., 12 mm), but is not limited thereto. The medium (110) may be inserted into an aerosol-generating device and generate an aerosol when heated, and the generated aerosol (e.g., mainstream smoke) may be inhaled through the user's mouth.

[0080] In some embodiments, the aerosol-forming substrate may comprise tobacco material, although the processed form of the tobacco material may vary. For example, the aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a reconstituted tobacco sheet, such as a sheet of leaf. In some embodiments, the aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a sheet of leaf. In some embodiments, the aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a plurality of tobacco strands (also referred to as "cut fillers") formed by cutting the reconstituted tobacco sheet. In some embodiments, the medium portion (110) may be filled with a plurality of tobacco strands arranged in the same direction (e.g., parallel) and / or randomly. Further, in some embodiments, the aerosol-forming substrate may comprise leaf tobacco cut filler.

[0081] In some embodiments, the aerosol forming substrate may comprise a reconstituted tobacco sheet and / or leaf tobacco ash.

[0082] In some embodiments, the aerosol-forming substrate or medium (110) may include at least one humectant. The humectant may include, but is not limited to, glycerin and / or propylene glycol.

[0083] In some embodiments, the aerosol forming substrate or medium portion (110) may contain at least one flavorant (or, may be referred to as a "flavoring agent") and / or other additives such as an organic acid. For example, the flavorant may be licorice, sucrose, fructose syrup, artificial sweetener (e.g., Isosweet TM), cocoa, lavender, cinnamon, cardamom, celery, fenugreek, cascarilla, sandalwood, bergamot, geranium, honey essence, rose oil, vanilla, lemon oil, orange oil, mint oil, cinnamon, caraway, cognac, jasmine, chamomile, menthol, cinnamon, ylang-ylang, sage, spearmint, ginger, coriander and / or coffee, but are not limited thereto.

[0084] The support structure (120) is positioned downstream (on one side) of the medium portion (110), and the upstream side of the support structure (120) may be in contact with the downstream side of the medium portion (110). The support structure (120) may function as a support member for the medium portion (110). For example, when a heating element of an aerosol generating device is inserted / inserted into the medium portion (110) and aligned to the outside of the medium portion (110), the support structure (120) may function to prevent the medium portion (110) from moving downstream. The support structure (120) may also function as a passage for aerosol (e.g., mainstream smoke) formed in the medium portion (110).

[0085] In some embodiments, the support structure (120) includes a tubular structure having a hollow space (120H) formed therein, which can function as a channel for the aerosol (i.e., through which the aerosol moves). The hollow space (120H) can extend along the longitudinal direction of the support structure (120). The hollow space (120H) is located at the center of a cross-section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the support structure (120) and can extend along the longitudinal direction of the support structure (120). The hollow space (120H) and the support structure (120) can have a coaxial structure along the longitudinal direction. The length of the support structure (120) can be about 8 mm to 12 mm (e.g., 10 mm), but is not limited thereto. In some embodiments, the length of the support structure (120) may be shorter than or equal to the length of the cooling structure (130) described below, but is not limited thereto.

[0086] The upstream end of the tubular structure included in the support structure (120) may be in contact with the downstream end of the tubular structure included in the cooling structure (130). In other words, one end located on one side (downstream) of the support structure (120) may be in contact with an end located on the other side (upstream) opposite to one side of the cooling structure (130), and the other end located on the other side (upstream) of the support structure (120) may be in contact with one end of the medium portion (110). Accordingly, the aerosol formed in the medium portion (110) may be moved toward the mouthpiece portion (140) (i.e., in the downstream direction) through the hollow portions (120H, 130H). The support structure (120) may effectively prevent the medium portion (110) from moving in the downstream direction in a situation where a heating element is inserted, and may also provide a filtration and cooling effect for the aerosol.

[0087] In one embodiment, the support structure (120) may be composed of lyocell tow comprising a plurality of lyocell fibers. In particular, the lyocell tow constituting the support structure (120) may have a tube shape with a hollow space (120H) formed therein.

[0088] In the present invention, the lyocell fibers included in the support structure (120) are environmentally friendly fibers made from cellulose extracted from wood pulp. The lyocell tow may refer to a bundle formed by cross-linking adjacent lyocell fibers.

[0089] Since the support structure (120) is composed of lyocell tow that does not melt even at high temperatures, the high heat resistance of the lyocell tow can minimize deformation of the support structure (120) due to heat applied to heat the smoking article (100) and / or high-temperature aerosol passing through the hollow portion (120H) of the support structure (120). Accordingly, the support structure (120) can maintain its shape while smoking is taking place, and the smoke component passing through the hollow portion (120H) of the support structure (120) can be maintained uniformly without variation over the smoking time, thereby providing a more improved smoking experience to the user.

[0090] In some embodiments, the outer diameter of the support structure (120) may be approximately 6 mm to 10 mm, preferably 6.1 mm to 9 mm, more preferably 6.2 mm to 8 mm, even more preferably 6.3 mm to 7.8 mm, even more preferably 6.4 mm to 7.6 mm, even more preferably 6.6 mm to 7.4 mm, even more preferably 6.8 mm to 7.2 mm, and even more preferably 7 mm. The inner diameter of the support structure (120) (i.e., the diameter of the hollow 120H) may be any appropriate value within the range of approximately 2 mm to 5.5 mm, preferably 2.1 mm to 5 mm, more preferably 2.2 mm to 4.5 mm, and even more preferably 2.5 mm to 4 mm, but is not limited thereto. In some embodiments, the inner diameter of the support structure (120) (i.e., the diameter of the hollow 120H) may be, but is not limited to, 2.5 mm to 3.0 mm or 3.5 mm to 4.0 mm, preferably 2.7 mm to 2.9 mm or 3.7 mm to 3.9 mm, more preferably 2.8 mm or 3.8 mm.

[0091] In some embodiments, the inner diameter of the support structure (120) may be, but is not limited to, 10% to 90%, preferably 20% to 80%, more preferably 25% to 75%, more preferably 30% to 70%, and more preferably 35% to 65% of the outer diameter of the support structure (120).

[0092] In some embodiments, the lyocell fibers may have a Y-shaped cross-section with three protrusions branching from the center, a cross-shaped cross-section with four protrusions, and / or a star-shaped cross-section with five or more protrusions, or may have an O-shaped cross-section, but are not limited thereto.

[0093] Meanwhile, it may be desirable for the support structure (120) to be manufactured to have appropriate hardness and / or durability for its supporting role. The support structure (120) may further include at least one binder dispersed in the lyocell tow constituting the cooling structure (130). The binder may be distributed over the entire area of ​​the lyocell tow constituting the support structure (120). The binder may function to impart appropriate hardness to the support structure (120) by binding between a plurality of lyocell fibers constituting the lyocell tow. As described above, unlike cellulose acetate, lyocell does not have a plasticizer material that hardens lyocell fibers, and thus, by adding a binder instead, appropriate hardness can be imparted to the support structure (120). That is, since the support structure (120) further includes at least one binder, it can realize excellent hardness even though it is a structure composed of lyocell tow.

[0094] In some embodiments, the binder may include at least one of a cellulose-based binder, a vinyl-based binder, a polyester-based binder, a dextrin-based binder, a starch-based binder, guar gum, xanthan gum, gum arabic, carrageenan, konjac, and agar, but is not limited thereto as long as it is a material capable of binding between a plurality of lyocell fibers to impart appropriate hardness. For example, the cellulose-based binder may include hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (HPMC), ethylcellulose (EC), methylcellulose (MC), carboxymethylcellulose (CMC), etc., the vinyl-based binder may include polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), ethylene vinyl acetate (EVAc), etc., the polyester-based binder may be a polyester containing at least one selected from the group consisting of alkylene, arylene, and heteroarylene having 5 to 12 carbon atoms, the dextrin-based binder may include dextrin, etc., and the starch-based binder may include starch (e.g., tapioca, corn, wheat, potato, sweet potato, etc.), cationic starch, esterified starch, etc., but is not limited thereto.

[0095] In some embodiments, the binder may include at least one of a polyester, hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (HPMC), ethylcellulose (EC), methylcellulose (MC), carboxymethylcellulose (CMC), polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), ethylene vinyl acetate (EVAc), dextrin, tapioca starch, corn starch, wheat starch, potato starch, sweet potato starch, cationic starch, esterified starch, guar gum, xanthan gum, gum arabic, carrageenan, konjac, and agar, wherein the polyester comprises one or more selected from the group consisting of alkylene, arylene, and heteroarylene having 5 to 12 carbon atoms.

[0096] In some embodiments, the binder may be added to be dispersed within the lyocell tow during the manufacturing process of the support structure (120). For example, during the manufacturing process of the support structure (120), the binder may be added to the interior of the lyocell tow by wrapping the lyocell tow around the heater rod and spraying the binder onto the outer surface of the cylindrical lyocell tow formed to wrap the heater rod from the inside, or alternatively, or in addition, the binder may be added to the interior of the lyocell tow by adding the binder from the heater rod through the inner surface of the lyocell tow formed to wrap the heater rod from the inside, but the method of manufacturing the support structure (120) is not limited thereto.

[0097] In some embodiments, the hardness of the support structure (120) including the lyocell tow having the binder dispersed therein may be, but is not limited to, 60% to 99%, preferably 70% to 98.5%, more preferably 75% to 98%, even more preferably 80% to 97.5%, and even more preferably 85% to 97%. The hardness of the support structure (120) is a value that quantifies the degree to which the diameter of the support structure (120) is maintained when the support structure (120) is pressed with a certain level of force in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the support structure (120), and may be a value that is a percentage ratio between the diameter of the support structure (120) before applying the force and after applying the force. Since the support structure (120) has a hardness within the above range, the support structure (120) can have the effect of stably maintaining its shape despite being a tubular structure composed of lyocell tow, and due to the stable maintenance of the shape of the support structure (120), deformation of the support structure (120) during storage or smoking of the smoking article (100) can be minimized or prevented from deteriorating the quality of the smoking experience.

[0098] The smoking article (100) according to the present invention uses a support structure (120) made of lyocell tow in the form of a tube with a hollow interior, thereby effectively reducing the amount of moisture transferred during smoking due to the superior moisture affinity of lyocell tow compared to cellulose acetate tow, thereby reducing the heat felt by the user and maximizing the cooling effect.

[0099] In addition, the excellent heat resistance of lyocell tow can effectively minimize or prevent deformation of the cooling structure due to heat transferred from a heater that heats the smoking article or from an aerosol generated within the smoking article.

[0100] The cooling structure (130) can function as a cooling member for high-temperature aerosol generated as the medium portion (110) is heated. In particular, the cooling structure (130) can include a tubular structure having a hollow portion (130H) formed therein, and can cool the aerosol passing through the hollow portion (130H). In particular, the aerosol formed in the medium portion (1130) can move to the hollow portion (130H) of the cooling structure (130) through the hollow portion (120H) of the support structure (120), and can move in the direction of the mouthpiece portion (140) (i.e., downstream). The hollow portion (130H) can extend along the longitudinal direction of the cooling structure (130). The hollow portion (130H) is located at the center of a cross-section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the cooling structure (130), and can extend along the longitudinal direction of the cooling structure (130). The hollow body (130H) and the cooling structure (130) may have a coaxial structure along the longitudinal direction. The hollow body (120H) of the support structure (120) and the hollow body (130H) of the cooling structure (130) may be positioned at the center of a cross-section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the support structure (120) and the cooling structure (130), respectively, and may extend along the longitudinal direction of the support structure (120) and the cooling structure (130). The hollow body (120H) of the support structure (120) and the hollow body (130H) of the cooling structure (130) may extend along the same axis along the longitudinal direction. The hollow body (120H) of the support structure (120) and the hollow body (130H) of the cooling structure (130) may have the same or different diameters in a cross-section perpendicular to the axis, respectively.

[0101] Accordingly, the user can inhale an aerosol of an appropriate temperature, and the mainstream smoke can be smoothly aerosolized to improve the amount of vapor.

[0102] In some embodiments, the cooling structure (130) may include at least one of a tubular structure made of paper material (i.e., a paper filter), a tubular structure made of cellulose acetate material, or a tubular structure made of lyocell material. The length of the cooling structure (130) may be about 12 mm to 16 mm (e.g., 14 mm), but is not limited thereto.

[0103] Preferably, the cooling structure (130) may include a tubular structure composed of lyocell tow including a plurality of lyocell fibers. However, the cooling structure (130) is not limited thereto, and alternatively, or in addition, the cooling structure (130) may also include a tubular structure or pipe including or made of a cellulose acetate material. Since the cooling structure (130) is composed of lyocell tow including a plurality of lyocell fibers and having a hollow space therein, the cooling structure (130) can prevent deformation of the cooling structure (130) due to heat applied to heat the smoking article (100) and / or high-temperature aerosol passing through the hollow space (130H) of the cooling structure (130) due to the high heat resistance of the lyocell tow that does not melt even at high temperatures. Accordingly, the cooling structure (130) can maintain its shape while smoking, so that the smoke component passing through the hollow portion (130H) of the cooling structure (130) can be maintained uniformly without variation depending on the smoking time, thereby providing a more improved smoking experience to the user. When the cooling structure (130) is composed of lyocell tow, the cooling structure (130) may further include at least one binder dispersed in the lyocell tow to impart a predetermined hardness.

[0104] In some embodiments, the binder included in the cooling structure (130) may include, but is not limited to, the exemplary materials listed as the binder included in the support structure (120).

[0105] In some embodiments, the binder included in the cooling structure (130) may be the same as or different from the binder included in the support structure (120).

[0106] In some embodiments, the binder included in the cooling structure (130) may include at least one selected from the group consisting of alkylene, arylene and heteroarylene having 5 to 12 carbon atoms, polyester, hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (HPMC), ethylcellulose (EC), methylcellulose (MC), carboxymethylcellulose (CMC), polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), ethylene vinyl acetate (EVAc), dextrin, tapioca starch, corn starch, wheat starch, potato starch, sweet potato starch, cationic starch, esterified starch, guar gum, xanthan gum, gum arabic, carrageenan, konjac and agar.

[0107]

[0108] The mouthpiece (140) is a mouthpiece that comes into contact with the user's mouth and can serve as a filter that ultimately delivers the aerosol delivered from upstream to the user. The mouthpiece (140) may be located downstream of the cooling structure (130), and the upstream portion may be in contact with the downstream portion of the cooling structure (130), and / or may form the downstream end of the smoking article (100).

[0109] In some embodiments, the mouthpiece portion (140) may be made of a cellulose acetate filter or a lyocell filter. That is, the mouthpiece portion (140) may be made of cellulose acetate fibers (i.e., cellulose acetate tow) as a filter material and / or lyocell fibers (i.e., lyocell tow) as a filter material. Although not shown, the mouthpiece portion (140) may also be made of a recessed filter. The length of the mouthpiece portion (140) may be about 10 mm to 14 mm (e.g., 12 mm), but is not limited thereto.

[0110] In some embodiments, the mouthpiece portion (140) may include at least one capsule. Here, the capsule may have a structure in which a liquid containing a flavoring agent is encapsulated by a film. For example, the capsule may have a spherical or cylindrical shape.

[0111] For reference, the support structure (120), the cooling structure (130), and the mouthpiece portion (140) can all function as filters for aerosols, and each component may be referred to as a “filter segment” to emphasize its function as a filter. For example, the support structure (120), the cooling structure (130), and the mouthpiece portion (140) may be referred to as a first filter segment, a second filter segment, and a third filter segment, respectively.

[0112] The wrapper (150) surrounds and may wrap at least one of the medium portion (110), the support structure (120), the cooling structure (130), and the mouthpiece portion (140). Although not shown, at least one of the medium portion (110), the support structure (120), the cooling structure (130), and the mouthpiece portion (140) may be wrapped with a separate wrapper before being wrapped by the wrapper (150). For example, the medium portion (110) may be wrapped by a medium portion wrapper (not shown), and the support structure (120), the cooling structure (130), and the mouthpiece portion (140) may be wrapped by a first filter wrapper (not shown), a second filter wrapper (not shown), and a third filter wrapper (not shown), respectively. However, the method of wrapping the smoking article (100) and its components is not limited thereto and may vary.

[0113] In some embodiments, the wrapper (150) may be formed with perforations (160, see FIG. 1) arranged along the periphery of the cooling structure (130), or may not have perforations (no perforations, see FIG. 2). In some embodiments, the wrapper (150) may be formed with a plurality of perforations (160, see FIG. 1) arranged along the periphery of the cooling structure (130), particularly along the periphery of a cross-section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the cooling structure (130). When perforations are formed in the wrapper (150), outside air may be introduced into the cooling structure (130) through the plurality of perforations (160). The plurality of perforations (160) may serve to lower the surface temperature of the mouthpiece portion and the temperature of mainstream smoke delivered to the smoker through the introduction of outside air. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the wrapper (150) may not have perforations. Even if no perforations are formed in the wrapper (150), as described later, the moisture absorption performance in the mainstream smoke is excellent due to the excellent moisture affinity of the lyocell material constituting the support structure (120), so that the heat sensation of the mainstream smoke passing through the support structure (120) can be significantly reduced.

[0114]

[0115] Hereinafter, the composition and resulting effects of the present invention will be described in more detail through examples and comparative examples. However, these examples are intended to more specifically illustrate the present invention, and the scope of the present invention is not limited to these examples.

[0116]

[0117] Example 1

[0118] A support structure as shown in Fig. 1 was manufactured using lyocell material. In particular, a cylindrical lyocell tow was formed to surround the heater rod using a heater rod, and a dextrin-based binder (dextrin) was injected into the lyocell tow through the inner surface of the lyocell tow from the heater rod, thereby manufacturing a support structure having an inner diameter of about 3.8 mm and a circumference of 22.6 mm. Thereafter, a heated cigarette (as a smoking article of Example 1) having a structure of a medium portion having a length of 12 mm, a support structure having a length of 10 mm, a cooling structure composed of a tube having an inner diameter of 6 mm and a length of 14 mm, and a mouthpiece portion composed of cellulose acetate tow having a length of 12 mm, as in the smoking article (100) shown in Fig. 1, was manufactured, and the suction resistance was measured, and is shown in Table 1 below.

[0119] Unless otherwise specified herein, PDC may refer to a value of suction resistance measured in a state where the medium section is open, the perforations of the filter section are blocked, and the inflow of external air is blocked, and PDO may refer to a value of suction resistance measured in a state where the medium section is open, the perforations of the filter section are not blocked, and the inflow of external air is allowed.

[0120]

[0121] Comparative Example 1

[0122] A heated cigarette was manufactured in the same manner as in Example 1, except that the support structure was manufactured using cellulose acetate material, and the suction resistance was measured, which is shown in Table 1 below.

[0123]

[0124] Experimental Example 1. Physical Property Evaluation

[0125] In order to determine changes in the physical properties of smoking articles according to the materials constituting the support structure, experiments were conducted to measure the physical properties of smoking articles according to Comparative Example 1 and Example 1. In particular, the weight, circumference, and suction resistance (Vent (Ventilation Rate)) of smoking articles were measured, and the measurement results are shown in Table 1 below.

[0126]

[0127]

[0128] ClassificationWeight(mg)Circumference(mm)PDO(mmH20)PDC(mmH20)Vent(%)Comparative Example 1524.622.652.387.053.4Example 1537.622.651.584.853.3

[0129] (In Table 1 above, Vent refers to the air dilution rate (VR).) Referring to Table 1 above, smoking articles composed of lyocell tow and cellulose acetate as the materials constituting the support structure, respectively, exhibit similar physical properties, and it can be confirmed that the air dilution rate (VR) and suction resistance characteristics that can be related to heat resistance and cooling during smoking are similar.

[0130]

[0131] Experimental Example 2. Moisture transfer amount of smoking articles according to the material of the support structure (heat reduction effect)

[0132]

[0133] In order to compare the amount of moisture transferred into the mainstream smoke of smoking articles according to the material constituting the support structure, the medium portion of the smoking articles according to Comparative Example 1 and Example 1 was heated at a heating temperature of 190°C to 280°C using an external heating method, and the moisture content (as moisture transferred amount) in the generated smoke was measured, and is shown in Table 2 below.

[0134] In particular, the experiment was conducted in a smoking room (specifically, a temperature of about 21.9°C and a relative humidity of 64.3%) with an internal temperature of about 22±2°C and an internal relative humidity of about 60±5%, targeting smoking articles according to Comparative Example 1 and Example 1, and the smoking conditions were HC conditions (Puff volume: 55 ml / Puff frequency: 30 s / Puff duration: 2 s / Number of puffs: 9 puffs), and the generated smoke was captured in a Cambridge filter (i.e., Cambridge filter pad (CFP)) and the moisture content (moisture transfer amount) captured in the Cambridge filter (pad) was measured, which is shown in Table 2 below.

[0135]

[0136] Moisture content (mg) Comparative example 122.91 Example 116.19

[0137] Referring to Tables 1 and 2 above, it can be confirmed that the smoking articles of Example 1 and Comparative Example 1 have similar physical properties, but the moisture content of the mainstream smoke is lower in the smoking article of Example 1 than in the smoking article of Comparative Example 1. That is, since the amount of moisture transfer in the mainstream smoke of the smoking article of Example 1 is lower than that of the smoking article of Comparative Example 1, it can be confirmed that the heat sensation (i.e., hot sensation) transmitted to the user through the mainstream smoke during smoking is lower in the smoking article of Example 1, whose support structure is composed of lyocell material, than in the smoking article of Comparative Example 1, whose support structure is composed of cellulose acetate. This can be presumed to be due to the superior moisture affinity of the lyocell material compared to the cellulose acetate material, whereby the moisture generated during smoking passes through the support structure composed of lyocell and is absorbed into the lyocell tow constituting the support structure. That is, it can be confirmed that the smoking article of Example 1, in which the support structure is composed of lyocell material, is more effective in reducing the heat sensation felt by a smoker when smoking than the smoking article of Comparative Example 1, in which the support structure is composed of cellulose acetate material.

[0138]

[0139] Experimental Example 3. Evaluation of thermal deformation according to the material of the support structure.

[0140]

[0141] In order to analyze the material deformation caused by heat generated when the medium portion of the smoking article is heated depending on the material constituting the support structure, the medium portion of the smoking article according to Comparative Example 1 and Example 1 was heated in the same manner as in Experimental Example 2 (i.e., heated to a heating temperature of 190°C to 280°C using an external heating method), and then the smoking article was disassembled and the support structure was photographed. The photographs of the support structures are shown in FIG. 3. In FIG. 3, FIG. 3(a) is a photograph of the support structures of Comparative Example 1 and Example 1 before the experiment (before smoking), in which the left side of FIG. 3(a) is the support structure of Comparative Example 1, and the right side of FIG. 3(a) is the support structure of Example 1. In addition, in FIG. 3, FIG. 3(b) is a photograph of the support structures of Comparative Example 1 and Example 1 after the experiment (after smoking), in which the left side of FIG. 3(b) is the support structure of Comparative Example 1, and the right side of FIG. 3(b) is the support structure of Example 1.

[0142]

[0143] Referring to FIG. 3(a) in FIG. 3, it can be confirmed that the appearance of the cellulose acetate support structure of Comparative Example 1 and the lyocell support structure of Example 1 before smoking are substantially the same.

[0144] Referring to FIG. 3(b) in FIG. 3, it can be confirmed that after smoking (i.e., after heating to a temperature of 190°C to 280°C and puffing), the support structure of Comparative Example 1 was discolored yellow, but the support structure of Example 1 was not discolored. From this, it can be confirmed that the cellulose acetate material was discolored due to the heat generated within the smoking article during smoking, but the lyocell material was not discolored.

[0145] In addition, it can be confirmed that the support structure of Comparative Example 1 after smoking not only discolored but also melted and stuck (i.e., melted and stuck), resulting in a difference in the shape of the wrapper surrounding the support structure and becoming smaller than the initial shape, but the support structure of Example 1 was confirmed to be substantially the same as the shape of the wrapper and thus largely maintained its initial shape. That is, it can be confirmed that the cellulose acetate material (Comparative Example 1) deformed due to a melting phenomenon caused by heat, but the lyocell material (Example 1) did not deform due to heat because it did not melt.

[0146] This may be because the lyocell material has superior heat resistance compared to the cellulose acetate material, and thus can effectively prevent deformation caused by heat generated during smoking, heat within the aerosol, and / or heat for heating the medium. Accordingly, it can be confirmed that the support structure of Example 1 has superior heat absorption performance compared to the support structure of Comparative Example 1, and has the advantage of being able to maintain its original shape without material deformation based on its superior heat resistance.

[0147]

[0148] Examples 2 and 3

[0149]

[0150] A cooling structure of Example 2 having an inner diameter of about 2.8 mm and a circumference of about 22.8 mm and a cooling structure of Example 3 having an inner diameter of about 3.8 mm and a circumference of about 22.8 mm were manufactured, respectively, and a smoking article having a structure of a medium portion of 12 mm, a support structure of Example 2 or Example 3 having a length of 10 mm, a cooling structure composed of a pipe having an inner diameter of 6 mm and a length of 14 mm, and a mouthpiece portion composed of a cellulose acetate tow having a length of 12 mm, similar to the smoking article (100) disclosed in FIG. 1 as in Example 1, was manufactured, and the physical properties were measured and shown in Table 3 below.

[0151]

[0152] Classification (inner diameter) Weight (mg) Circumference (mm) PDO (mmH20) PDC (mmH20) Vent (%) Example 2 (2.8 mm) 658.42 2.83 149.15 2.3 13.22 Example 3 (3.8 mm) 643.92 2.89 350.15 3.6 13.87

[0153] (In Table 3 above, Vent means ventilation rate (VR).)

[0154] *Experimental Example 4. Analysis of smoke components according to the inner diameter of the support structure

[0155]

[0156]

[0157] *In order to compare the components in the smoke according to the inner diameter of the support structure, the medium portion of each smoking article according to Examples 2 and 3 was heated at a heating temperature of 190°C to 280°C using an external heating method, and the total particulate matter (TPM), nicotine components, moisture content, etc. were measured, and the results are shown in Table 4 below.

[0158] In particular, the experiment was conducted in a smoking room (specifically, a temperature of about 21.9°C and a relative humidity of 64.3%) with an internal temperature of about 22±2°C and an internal relative humidity of about 60±5%, targeting smoking articles according to Examples 2 and 3, and the smoking conditions were HC conditions (Puff volume: 55 ml / Puff frequency: 30 s / Puff duration: 2 s / Number of puffs: 9 puffs), and the generated smoke was captured and analyzed on a Cambridge filter (i.e., Cambridge filter pad (CFP)). The total particulate matter (TPM) is a value obtained by measuring the change in the weight of the Cambridge filter before smoking and after smoking using the smoking device, and for the remaining components, the captured smoke was analyzed by GC (Gas Chromatography).

[0159]

[0160] ClassificationTPM(mg)Tar(mg)Nic(mg)PG(mg)Gly(mg)Moisture(mg)Example 240.7818.041.000.593.5221.74Example 338.5418.080.970.593.3319.49

[0161] Referring to Table 4 above, the smoke components transferred during smoking are generally similar depending on the difference in the inner diameter of the support structure, but the moisture transfer amount of Example 2 with an inner diameter of the support structure of 2.8 mm is 21.74 mg, and the moisture transfer amount of Example 3 with an inner diameter of the support structure of 3.8 mm is 19.49 mg, so it can be confirmed that Example 3 has a smaller moisture transfer amount than Example 2, and that the larger the inner diameter of the tubular structure, the better the effect of reducing the user's heat sensation. That is, Example 3 with an inner diameter of the cooling structure of 3.8 mm and Example 2 with an inner diameter of the cooling structure of 2.8 mm have similar smoke components in the mainstream smoke, but the larger the inner diameter, the less moisture transfer amount, so it can be confirmed that the cooling effect and / or the effect of reducing the smoker's heat sensation are excellent, thereby improving the user's smoking quality.

[0162]

[0163] Figures 4 to 6 illustrate various types of aerosol generating devices to which smoking articles according to some embodiments of the present disclosure may be applied. In particular, Figure 4 is an exemplary schematic diagram illustrating a cigarette-type aerosol generating device (1000), and Figures 5 and 6 are exemplary schematic diagrams illustrating a hybrid aerosol generating device (1000) that utilizes both liquid and cigarette vapor. Hereinafter, the aerosol generating device (1000) will be briefly described.

[0164] As illustrated in FIG. 4, the aerosol generating device (1000) may be a device that generates an aerosol through a cigarette (2000) inserted into an internal space. Here, the cigarette (2000) may correspond to the smoking article (100) described above. Accordingly, the cigarette (2000) may include the medium portion (110), the support structure (120), and the cooling structure (130) described above. More specifically, when the cigarette (2000) is inserted into the aerosol generating device (1000), the aerosol generating device (1000) may operate the heater portion (1300) to generate an aerosol from the cigarette (2000). The generated aerosol may pass through the cigarette (2000) and be delivered to the user.

[0165] As illustrated, the aerosol generating device (1000) may include a battery (1100), a control unit (1200), and a heater unit (1300). However, only components related to the embodiment of the present disclosure are illustrated in FIG. 4. Therefore, a person skilled in the art to which the present disclosure pertains may recognize that other general components may be included in addition to the components illustrated in FIG. 4. For example, the aerosol generating device (1000) may further include a display capable of outputting visual information, a motor for outputting tactile information, and / or at least one sensor (such as a puff detection sensor, a temperature detection sensor, and / or a cigarette insertion detection sensor). Hereinafter, each component of the aerosol generating device (1000) will be described.

[0166] The battery (1100) supplies power used to operate the aerosol generating device (1000). For example, the battery (1100) can supply power to heat the heater unit (1300) and supply power required for the control unit (1200) to operate. In addition, the battery (1100) can supply power required for the operation of displays, sensors, motors, etc. (not shown) installed in the aerosol generating device (1000).

[0167] Next, the control unit (1200) can control the overall operation of the aerosol generating device (1000). In particular, the control unit (1200) can control the operation of not only the battery (1100) and the heater unit (1300), but also other components that may be included in the aerosol generating device (1000). In addition, the control unit (1200) can check the status of each component of the aerosol generating device (1000) to determine whether the aerosol generating device (1000) is in an operable state.

[0168] The control unit (1200) may include at least one processor. The processor may be implemented as an array of multiple logic gates, or as a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory storing a program executable on the microprocessor. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the processor may be implemented using other types of hardware.

[0169] Next, the heater unit (1300) can heat the cigarette (2000) by power supplied from the battery (1100). For example, when the cigarette (2000) is inserted into the aerosol generating device (1000), the heating element of the heater unit (1300) can be inserted into a certain area inside the cigarette (2000) to increase the temperature of the aerosol forming material inside the cigarette (2000).

[0170] In some embodiments, the heater unit (1300) may alternatively, or in addition to, include an external heating element, as depicted in FIG. 4. In this case, the heating element of the heater unit (1300) may be positioned externally of the cigarette (2000) inserted into the device (1000). Furthermore, as depicted, the heater unit (1300) may include multiple heating elements. For example, the heater unit (1300) may include multiple internal heating elements or multiple external heating elements. As another example, the heater unit (1300) may include one or more internal heating elements and one or more external heating elements.

[0171] The heating element may include or be made of any electrically resistive material and / or any material capable of induction heating. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and any material may be used as long as it can be heated to a desired temperature under the control of the control unit (1200). Here, the desired temperature may be preset in the aerosol generating device (1000) or may be set to a desired temperature by the user.

[0172] Meanwhile, although FIG. 4 illustrates that the battery (1100), the control unit (1200), and the heater unit (1300) are arranged in a row along the longitudinal direction, the internal structure of the aerosol generating device (1000) is not limited to the example illustrated in FIG. 4. In other words, the arrangement of the battery (1100), the control unit (1200), and the heater unit (1300) may vary depending on the design of the aerosol generating device (1000).

[0173] Hereinafter, a hybrid aerosol generating device (1000) will be described with reference to FIGS. 5 and 6. For clarity of the present disclosure, descriptions of overlapping components (1100, 1200, 1300) will be omitted.

[0174] As illustrated in FIG. 5 or FIG. 6, the aerosol generating device (1000) may further include a vaporizer (1400).

[0175] When a cigarette (2000) is inserted into an aerosol generating device (1000), the aerosol generating device (1000) can operate the heater unit (1300) and / or the vaporizer (1400) to generate an aerosol from the cigarette (2000) and / or the vaporizer (1400). The aerosol generated by the heater unit (1300) and / or the vaporizer (1400) can pass through the cigarette (2000) and be delivered to the user. When the cigarette (2000) is inserted into the aerosol generating device (1000), the heating element of the heater unit (1300) can be placed in contact with or adjacent to an outer portion of the cigarette (2000) to increase the temperature of the aerosol forming substrate within the cigarette (2000) from the outside.

[0176] The vaporizer (1400) can heat the liquid composition to generate an aerosol, and the generated aerosol can be delivered to the user through the cigarette (2000). In other words, the aerosol generated by the vaporizer (1400) can travel along the airflow passage of the aerosol generating device (1000), and the airflow passage can be configured so that the aerosol generated by the vaporizer (1400) can pass through the cigarette (2000) and be delivered to the user.

[0177] The vaporizer (1400) may include, but is not limited to, a liquid reservoir, a liquid delivery means, and a liquid heating element. For example, the liquid reservoir, the liquid delivery means, and the liquid heating element may be included as independent modules in the aerosol generating device (1000).

[0178] The liquid reservoir can store a liquid composition (i.e., a liquid aerosol-forming substrate). The liquid reservoir can be constructed to be detachable from / attached to the vaporizer (1400) or can be constructed integrally with the vaporizer (1400).

[0179] Next, the liquid delivery means can deliver the liquid composition from the liquid storage tank to the liquid heating element. For example, the liquid delivery means can be a wick such as, but not limited to, cotton fibers, ceramic fibers, glass fibers, or porous ceramics.

[0180] A liquid heating element is an element for heating a liquid composition delivered by a liquid delivery means. For example, the liquid heating element may include, but is not limited to, a metal heating wire, a metal heating plate, a ceramic heater, etc. In addition, the liquid heating element may be composed of a conductive filament, such as a nichrome wire, and may be arranged in a structure that is wound around the liquid delivery means. The liquid heating element may be heated by the current supplied from the control unit (1200) and may transfer heat to the liquid composition in contact with the liquid heating element, thereby heating the liquid composition. As a result, an aerosol may be generated.

[0181] As illustrated in FIG. 5 or FIG. 6, the vaporizer (1400) and the heater unit (1300) may be arranged in parallel or series. However, the scope of the present disclosure is not limited to this arrangement.

[0182] For reference, the term vaporizer (1400) may be used interchangeably with terms such as cartomizer or atomizer in the relevant technical field.

[0183] The control unit (1200) can additionally control the operation of the vaporizer (1400), and the battery (1100) can additionally supply power so that the vaporizer (1400) can operate.

[0184] So far, various types of aerosol generating devices (1000) to which smoking articles (100) according to some embodiments of the present disclosure can be applied have been described with reference to FIGS. 4 to 6.

[0185]

[0186] Although the embodiments of the present disclosure have been described with reference to the attached drawings, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the present disclosure can be implemented in other specific forms without changing the technical concepts or essential features thereof. Therefore, it should be understood that the embodiments described above are illustrative in all respects and not restrictive. The scope of protection of the present disclosure should be interpreted by the claims below, and all technical ideas within a scope equivalent thereto should be interpreted as being included within the scope of the technical ideas defined by the present disclosure.

Claims

1. Medium; A cooling structure spaced apart from one side of the above medium; and Including a support structure arranged between the above medium portion and the above cooling structure, The above support structure comprises a lyocell tow comprising a plurality of lyocell fibers. Smoking items.

2. In paragraph 1, The lyocell tow of the above support structure has a tube shape with a hollow space formed inside. Smoking items.

3. In paragraph 1, The above support structure further comprises a binder dispersed in the lyocell tow. Smoking items.

4. In paragraph 3, The above binder comprises at least one of a cellulose-based binder, a vinyl-based binder, a polyester-based binder, a dextrin-based binder, and a starch-based binder. Smoking items.

5. In paragraph 4, The above binder comprises a dextrin-based binder, Smoking items.

6. In paragraph 2, The inner diameter of the above support structure is 10% to 90% of the outer diameter of the above support structure. Smoking items.

7. In paragraph 2, The outer diameter of the above support structure is 6 mm to 10 mm, The inner diameter of the above support structure is 2 mm to 5.5 mm. Smoking items.

8. In paragraph 2, The above support structure has one end located on the one side of the above support structure in contact with the cooling structure, and the other end located on the other side opposite the one side in contact with the medium. The above cooling structure has a tube shape with a hollow space formed inside, The hollow of the above cooling structure and the hollow of the above support structure are connected to each other. Smoking items.

9. In paragraph 8, The above cooling structure comprises at least one of a tubular structure made of paper material, a tubular structure made of cellulose acetate material, or a tubular structure made of lyocell material. Smoking items.

10. In paragraph 1, A mouthpiece portion arranged on one side of the cooling structure; and Further comprising a wrapper covering at least a portion of the medium portion, the support structure, the cooling structure, and the mouthpiece portion. Smoking items.

Images