Front plug segment, aerosol-generating article, and aerosol-generating system

Abstract

Disclosed in embodiments of the present application are a front plug segment, an aerosol-generating article, and an aerosol-generating system. The aerosol-generating article comprises a substrate segment, the substrate segment having an end away from the lips and an end near the lips. The front plug segment is arranged at the end of the substrate segment away from the lips. The front plug segment comprises a plug body, the plug body comprises a plurality of fiber bundles arranged in parallel, and the fiber bundles comprise a plurality of single yarns made of plant fibers. The front plug segment is mainly prepared from plant fibers, which are widely available, thus helping reduce production costs of the front plug segment. Plant fibers also have good degradability and are environmentally friendly. In addition, compared with a plug body made of paper, a plug body made of plant fibers has relatively higher structural strength and stability, is less prone to problems such as collapse, produces relatively less off-flavor when heated, and generally does not produce obvious off-flavor, thus helping improve smoking experience of users.

Description

Fore-plug section, aerosol generating products and aerosol generating system

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This disclosure is based on and claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202510041454.1, filed on January 10, 2025, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This application relates to the field of smoke-generating products technology, and in particular to a pre-plug section, an aerosol-generating product, and an aerosol-generating system. Background Technology

[0004] Smoke-generating products include aerosol-generating products that form aerosols through heating without combustion. A typical heated-non-combustible aerosol-generating product includes a matrix section that generates aerosols upon heating and a functional section located near the lip of the matrix section. The matrix section is heated by an external heat source (e.g., the heating element of an aerosol-generating device) to a temperature sufficient to release the desired components and aroma. The matrix section does not burn; instead, it is loaded with an atomizing agent, which is released through high-temperature heating during use to form an aerosol. The functional section can be used for filtering or cooling the aerosol, or it can support the aerosol-generating product. The matrix section is generally short, and when the aerosol-generating product is removed from the aerosol-generating device, the matrix section easily detaches and remains in the device.

[0005] In related technologies, a pre-plug segment is usually added to the distal lip of the matrix segment to improve the problem of matrix segment detachment. However, existing pre-plug segments are either expensive, have poor biodegradability and are not environmentally friendly, or have problems such as easy collapse and strong odor. Summary of the Invention

[0006] In view of this, the embodiments of this application aim to provide a pre-plug section, an aerosol generating article, and an aerosol generating system, with the goal of reducing the production cost of the pre-plug section, improving the environmental friendliness of the pre-plug section, and also improving the user's suction experience.

[0007] To solve the above problems, the technical solution of this application embodiment is implemented as follows:

[0008] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a pre-plug segment applied to an aerosol generating article, the aerosol generating article comprising a matrix segment having a distal lip end and a proximal lip end, the pre-plug segment being disposed at the distal lip end of the matrix segment, the pre-plug segment comprising a plug body comprising a plurality of parallel-arranged fiber bundles, the fiber bundles comprising a plurality of single yarns, the single yarns being made of plant fibers.

[0009] In some embodiments, the plant fiber includes cotton fiber, hemp fiber, bamboo fiber, or soybean fiber; and / or,

[0010] The count of the single yarn includes 32s to 60s.

[0011] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the monofilament of a single fiber bundle is made of different plant fibers; and / or,

[0012] At least a portion of the single yarns in a single fiber bundle have different counts.

[0013] In some embodiments, the twist of the fiber bundle is 20 twists / 10cm to 100 twists / 10cm.

[0014] In some embodiments, the twist of the fiber bundle is 30 twists / 10cm to 60 twists / 10cm.

[0015] In some embodiments, the diameter of the fiber bundle is 0.5 mm to 5 mm.

[0016] In some embodiments, the fore-plug section further includes a packaging layer that encloses a receiving space, and at least a portion of the plug is disposed within the receiving space.

[0017] In some embodiments, the filling density of the plug within the receiving space is 0.1 g / cm³. 3 ~0.3g / cm 3 .

[0018] In some embodiments, the filling density of the plug within the receiving space is 0.15 g / cm³. 3 ~0.25g / cm 3 .

[0019] In some embodiments, the weight of the packaging layer is 25 g / m³. 2 ~70g / m 2 ; and / or,

[0020] The air permeability of the packaging layer is 10CU to 6000CU; and / or,

[0021] The width of the packaging layer is 16mm to 26mm.

[0022] In some embodiments, the circumference of the plug is 15mm to 24mm; and / or,

[0023] The axial dimension of the plug is 2mm to 10mm.

[0024] Secondly, embodiments of this application provide an aerosol-generating article, comprising:

[0025] A matrix segment for generating aerosols, wherein the two ends of the matrix segment along the axis are a distal lip end and a proximal lip end, respectively;

[0026] The functional segment is located near the lip end;

[0027] The foreplasty section described in any of the above embodiments is located at the distal lip end;

[0028] An outer wrapping layer that wraps the outer wall of the matrix segment, at least a portion of the outer wall of the functional segment, and at least a portion of the outer wall of the forepump segment.

[0029] In some embodiments, the perimeter of the aerosol-generated article is 15 mm to 24 mm; and / or,

[0030] The axial dimension of the aerosol-generated product is 42mm to 86mm.

[0031] Thirdly, embodiments of this application provide an aerosol generation system, including:

[0032] Aerosol generating apparatus, including heating components;

[0033] In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol-generating article is wherein the matrix segment generates aerosol under the action of the heating component.

[0034] The main material for the pre-plug section in this application embodiment is plant fiber. Plant fiber has a relatively wide range of sources, which helps to reduce the production cost of the pre-plug section. Plant fiber also has good biodegradability and is more environmentally friendly. In addition, compared with paper plugs, plugs made of plant fiber have relatively high structural strength and stability, are not prone to collapse, and produce relatively less odor when heated, generally without obvious odor, which helps to improve the user's smoking experience. Attached Figure Description

[0035] Figure 1 is a simplified structural diagram of the front plug section according to an embodiment of this application;

[0036] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the front plug section according to another embodiment of this application;

[0037] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a fiber bundle according to an embodiment of this application;

[0038] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a fiber bundle according to another embodiment of this application;

[0039] Figure 5 is an exploded view of an aerosol-generating article according to an embodiment of this application, wherein the outer coating layer is not shown;

[0040] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of the preparation process of a single yarn according to an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0041] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this application clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The following embodiments are only used to more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of this application, and are therefore only examples, and should not be used to limit the scope of protection of this application. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of this application without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0042] In the description of the embodiments of this application, technical terms such as "first," "second," and "third" are used only to distinguish different objects and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number, specific order, or primary and secondary relationship of the indicated technical features. In the description of the embodiments of this application, "multiple" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly defined.

[0043] In this document, the term "embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment may be included in at least one embodiment of this application. The appearance of this phrase in various places throughout the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor is it a separate or alternative embodiment mutually exclusive with other embodiments. It will be explicitly and implicitly understood by those skilled in the art that the embodiments described herein can be combined with other embodiments.

[0044] In the description of the embodiments in this application, the term "and / or" is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A existing alone, A and B existing simultaneously, and B existing alone. Additionally, the character " / " in this document generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects are in an "or" relationship.

[0045] In the description of the embodiments of this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, technical terms such as "installation," "connection," "joining," and "fixing" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in the embodiments of this application according to the specific circumstances.

[0046] In the description of the embodiments of this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the technical term "contact" should be interpreted broadly, and can be direct contact, contact through an intermediate medium layer, contact between two contacting parties with substantially no interaction force, or contact between two contacting parties with interaction force.

[0047] The present application will now be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments.

[0048] The first aspect of this application provides an aerosol generating article. Please refer to Figures 1 to 5. The aerosol generating article includes a matrix segment 20, a functional segment 30, an outer wrapping layer (not shown), and a front plug segment 10 according to any embodiment of this application.

[0049] It should be noted that when the aerosol generating article adopts the front plug section 10 of any embodiment of this application, the aerosol generating article has all the advantages of the front plug section 10 of that embodiment, and the specific advantages are described in detail below.

[0050] Aerosol-generated products are suitable for extraction by heating without combustion.

[0051] The matrix segment 20 is used to generate aerosols. Specifically, the aerosol generating article is used in conjunction with an aerosol generating device, which includes a heating component and a power supply component. The power supply component provides electrical energy to the heating component, which converts the electrical energy into other forms of energy and applies them to the matrix segment 20, thereby heating the matrix segment 20 to generate aerosols.

[0052] There are various heating methods for the heating components. For example, the heating method can be a peripheral heating method, which means that the heating components are placed around the aerosol-generating article to bake and heat the matrix section 20 from the outside to the inside. These heating methods can specifically include resistance heating, electromagnetic induction heating, infrared heating, microwave heating, laser heating, air heating, electric field heating, carbon source heating, plasma heating, etc., and this application does not make specific limitations.

[0053] The matrix segment 20 has two axial ends, namely a proximal lip end 20a and a distal lip end 20b. The proximal lip end 20a refers to the end of the matrix segment 20 that is closer to the user's lips when the user uses the aerosol-generated product, and the distal lip end 20b refers to the end of the matrix segment 20 that is farther away from the user's lips when the user uses the aerosol-generated product.

[0054] Please refer to Figure 5. The functional segment 30 is located near the lip end 20a of the matrix segment 20.

[0055] The specific structure of functional section 30 is not limited, and functional section 30 includes at least one of support section, filter section 32 and cooling section.

[0056] For example, functional segment 30 includes a support segment, a cooling segment, and a filter segment 32. The support segment is located at one end of the matrix segment 20 along its axial direction, one end of the cooling segment is located at the end of the support segment away from the matrix segment 20 along its axial direction, and the filter segment 32 is located at the other end of the cooling segment.

[0057] The support section can connect and support the matrix section 20 and the cooling section at both ends. The cooling section is used to reduce the temperature of the aerosol so that the temperature of the aerosol flowing out of the filter section 32 is suitable and avoids the problem of the aerosol "scalding".

[0058] Of course, the positions of the support section and the cooling section can also be interchanged, that is, the cooling section is connected to one end of the matrix section 20 along the axis, and the two ends of the support section are connected to the other end of the cooling section and the filter section 32 respectively.

[0059] The structure of the support section is not limited. For example, it can be a hollow paper tube structure or a hollow aluminum foil tube structure. Hollow paper tube and hollow aluminum foil tube structures have good heat resistance, are not easily deformed by heat, and can maintain their shape after receiving heat conduction, which can increase the structural stability of aerosol-generated products. Alternatively, it can also be a hollow cellulose acetate structure or a hollow silicone structure.

[0060] The structure of the cooling section is not limited. For example, it can be one of a hollow paper tube, a cellulose acetate tube, or an aluminum foil tube. That is, the cooling section has a porous structure. When the airflow carrying aerosols passes through the cooling section, a Venturi effect occurs (the Venturi effect refers to the phenomenon that the fluid velocity increases when passing through a narrowed flow cross-section, and the velocity is inversely proportional to the flow cross-section). This allows the aerosols to pass through the cooling section relatively quickly, thus enabling rapid aerosol extraction. The cooling section has a large specific surface area, which allows for rapid cooling of the aerosols. Alternatively, the cooling section can also be a corrugated paper tube, etc.

[0061] Please refer to Figure 5. The support section and the cooling section are combined into one section, that is, the same structural component simultaneously achieves the functions of support and cooling. This type of structural form, the support section and the cooling section, is called the support and cooling section 31.

[0062] The outer wrapping layer covers the outer sidewall of the matrix segment 20, at least a portion of the outer sidewall of the functional segment 30, and at least a portion of the outer sidewall of the foreplug segment 10. This improves the reliability of the connection between the matrix segment 20, the functional segment 30, and the foreplug segment 10.

[0063] The outer wrapping layer has a certain degree of hardness, which can provide some protection for the matrix section 20, reduce the surface area of ​​the matrix section 20 directly exposed to the outside world, thereby reducing the probability of the matrix section 20 becoming damp and deteriorating due to contact with air. At the same time, it helps to reduce the probability of the matrix section 20 coming into contact with other components of the aerosol generation device and causing pollution.

[0064] The specific material of the outer wrapping layer is not limited, such as one or more of the following materials: fiber paper, metal foil, metal foil composite fiber paper, polyethylene (PE), polyethylene composite fiber paper, PBAT (Poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate)).

[0065] The outer wrapping layer can wrap around the periphery of functional segment 30.

[0066] It should be noted that when the outer wrapping layer covers the entire circumferential outer surface of the filter section 32, the user can directly put the outer wrapping layer in their mouth to use the aerosol. When the outer wrapping layer covers part of the circumferential outer surface of the filter section 32, the user can directly put the part of the filter section 32 exposed outside the outer wrapping layer in their mouth to inhale the aerosol. Of course, the user can also put a mouthpiece on the filter section 32 and inhale the aerosol through the mouthpiece.

[0067] It should be noted that the outer wrapping layer can be a single layer, that is, a single outer wrapping layer simultaneously wraps the matrix segment 20, the pre-plug segment 10, and each functional segment 30.

[0068] Of course, the outer wrapping layer can also be multi-layered. Any one of the matrix segment 20, the foreplug segment 10, and each functional segment 30 can be wrapped by at least one outer wrapping layer to obtain a multi-segment structure; or, at least two of the matrix segment 20, the foreplug segment 10, and each functional segment 30 can be wrapped by at least one outer wrapping layer to obtain a multi-segment structure, and the multi-segment structure can then be wrapped by one or more outer wrapping layers to obtain an aerosol-generated product.

[0069] The front plug section 10 is located at the distal lip end 20b of the matrix section 20. That is, the front plug section 10 is located at the end of the matrix section 20 that is axially away from the functional section 30.

[0070] Generally, aerosol generating devices are equipped with a receiving chamber. The aerosol product is placed inside the receiving chamber for use. The matrix segment 20 is heated inside the receiving chamber to generate aerosol. The heated matrix segment 20 may undergo some deformation. Due to this deformation, the matrix segment 20 is compressed against the chamber wall or other structures of the aerosol generating device. During the process of removing the aerosol product from the receiving chamber, the matrix segment 20 experiences relatively high frictional resistance. Furthermore, because the axial dimension of the matrix segment 20 is relatively short, it is prone to detachment and remain inside the receiving chamber.

[0071] By setting a front plug section 10 at the distal lip end 20b of the matrix section 20, the force of pulling out the aerosol-generated product is transmitted to the front plug section 10, which can push the matrix section 20 away from the containment chamber. Thus, the problem of matrix section 20 falling off can be effectively improved.

[0072] Furthermore, after suction stops, not all of the aerosol generated in the matrix section 20 may be used by the user. This portion of the aerosol may condense and flow back, causing contamination of the aerosol generating device. However, by providing a pre-stop section 10 at the distal lip 20b of the matrix section 20, the pre-stop section 10 can adsorb this condensed and flowing aerosol. This effectively prevents the aerosol from condensing and flowing downwards, remaining in the container of the aerosol generating device, causing contamination and making cleaning difficult. It also prevents cross-contamination of flavors when using aerosols from different brands.

[0073] In related technologies, the pre-stop section is mostly made of cellulose acetate, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), or paper. However, cellulose acetate is expensive; PET has poor biodegradability and is not environmentally friendly; and paper pre-stop sections have problems such as easy collapse and strong paper odor.

[0074] In view of this, please refer to Figures 1 to 4. A second aspect of the embodiments of this application provides a front plug section 10.

[0075] The front plug section 10 includes a plug body, which includes a plurality of parallel fiber bundles 12, each fiber bundle 12 including a plurality of single yarns 121 made of plant fibers.

[0076] It should be noted that in the embodiments of this application, "multiple" refers to any number of two or more.

[0077] The plug body is the main structure of the front plug section 10. In other words, the adsorption function of the front plug section 10 on the condensed and refluxed aerosols, as well as its function of working synergistically with the functional section 30 to drive the matrix section 20 out of the containment chamber, are mainly achieved through the plug body.

[0078] Understandably, the shape and dimensions of the plug body are similar to those of the front plug section 10. For example, referring to Figure 1, the front plug section 10 has a columnar structure, such as a cylinder. The plug body is also generally columnar and may be cylindrical.

[0079] The specific type of plant fiber is not limited. For example, plant fibers include cotton fiber, hemp fiber, bamboo fiber, or soybean fiber. These types of plant fibers are relatively widely available and easy to obtain, which helps to reduce the production cost of plugs. Furthermore, during the production process, there is generally no problem of insufficient production materials, which helps to ensure the production capacity of plugs.

[0080] Please refer to Figures 3 and 4. Each fiber bundle 12 includes multiple single yarns 121. It should be noted that the number of single yarns 121 included in each fiber bundle 12 may be the same or different, and this application does not impose any restrictions.

[0081] For example, referring to Figure 2, the plug is formed from 19 fiber bundles 12, of which 6 are the fiber bundles 12 shown in Figure 4 (the fiber bundles 12 are formed from 4 single yarns 121), and the remaining 13 are the fiber bundles 12 shown in Figure 3 (the fiber bundles 12 are formed from 6 single yarns 121). Here, at least some of the fiber bundles 12 include different numbers of single yarns 121.

[0082] For example, referring to Figure 2, the plug is formed from 19 fiber bundles 12, all of which are the same as those shown in Figure 3 (the fiber bundles 12 are formed from 6 single yarns 121). Here, that is, each fiber bundle 12 includes the same number of single yarns 121.

[0083] A single yarn 121 refers to a single thread. It should be noted that the materials of the multiple single yarns 121 included in a single fiber bundle 12 may be the same or different, and this application does not impose any restrictions on this.

[0084] For example, at least a portion of the single yarn 121 of the individual fiber bundle 12 is made of different plant fibers.

[0085] Specifically, taking one of the multiple fiber bundles 12 of the plug as an example, this fiber bundle 12 is, for example, prepared from four single yarns 121. The material of these four single yarns 121 can be, for example, cotton fiber, hemp fiber, bamboo fiber, or soybean fiber; or, two of the single yarns 121 can be made of cotton fiber, and the remaining two single yarns 121 can be made of bamboo fiber and soybean fiber, respectively; or, two of the single yarns 121 can be made of bamboo fiber, and the remaining two single yarns 121 can be made of soybean fiber; and so on.

[0086] By plying single yarns 121 of different materials to form fiber bundles 12, various properties can be imparted to the fiber bundles 12, thus enhancing the various functions of the plug. For example, hemp fiber has weak filtration and adsorption properties, while cotton fiber has strong adsorption properties. If single yarns 121 of cotton fiber and single yarns 121 of hemp fiber are plyed to form fiber bundles 12, and then this fiber bundle 12 is used to prepare a plug, the plug can have more suitable adsorption properties. This not only helps to reduce the retention rate of smoke and nicotine in the plug and improve the nicotine transport efficiency, but also enables the plug to have a better adsorption effect on condensed and refluxed aerosols, improving the pollution problem of aerosol generation devices.

[0087] The following describes the production steps for preparing single yarn 121 from plant fibers, specifically using cotton fiber as an example:

[0088] Please refer to Figure 6. Cotton fibers are processed through processes such as opening process S100, carding process S200, roving process S300, and spinning process S400 to obtain single yarn 121.

[0089] The cotton cleaning process S100 mainly includes steps such as opening, cleaning, blending, and rolling.

[0090] Opening the cotton: The tightly compressed cotton clumps are loosened into small bundles through mechanical tearing and impact. The purpose of this step is to create conditions for impurity removal and mixing, while preventing impurities from breaking and fibers from being damaged.

[0091] Cotton cleaning: This process removes most of the impurities (about 70%) and short fibers that are unsuitable for spinning from the raw cotton to ensure the stability of the cotton yarn quality.

[0092] Blended cotton: This involves thoroughly and evenly mixing various types of raw cotton to ensure uniform yarn quality and dyeing.

[0093] Rolling: Making uniform cotton rolls of a certain length and weight for use in the next process.

[0094] The carding process S200 mainly includes steps such as carding, impurity removal, mixing, and sliver forming.

[0095] Carding: This process essentially separates the bundled and clump-like fibers in the cotton lap into individual fibers. This is the core of the carding process. The degree to which the fibers are separated into individual fibers not only affects the quality of the sliver but is also closely related to the drafting process in subsequent steps, as well as yarn strength, evenness, and yarn breakage rate.

[0096] Impurity removal: While separating fibers, it removes fine fibers or strongly adhesive impurities and defects. The impurity removal efficiency of a carding machine can generally reach about 90%, and the result of impurity removal in the carding process largely determines the knots and evenness of the yarn.

[0097] Mixing: Under the premise of separating into individual fibers, fibers with different properties and proportions are thoroughly mixed among the individual fibers.

[0098] Sliver forming: The finished carded sliver is called a raw sliver and is arranged in a certain pattern in a sliver can for easy handling and processing in the next step.

[0099] The roving process S300 mainly includes the drawing process and the roving process.

[0100] The drawing process mainly includes steps such as drawing, stretching, mixing, and forming.

[0101] Combining: Multiple slivers are combined and fed into a drawing frame to form a single sliver. This allows for the random overlapping of different sliver thicknesses, improving the unevenness of long segments in the sliver. The basis weight unevenness of raw slivers is approximately 4.0%, while after combining, the basis weight unevenness of finished slivers is reduced to below 1%.

[0102] Drafting: Roller drafting is used to lengthen and thin the combined cotton sliver, improving fiber straightness and parallelism, further straightening and parallelizing hooked and crimped fibers, and controlling the weight of the sliver by adjusting the draft ratio. The draft ratio can effectively control the weight deviation and weight unevenness of the spun yarn.

[0103] Blending: By combining and drafting the fibers in each drawing frame, fibers with different properties are fully mixed to prevent color differences, which is especially important when blending chemical fibers with cotton.

[0104] Sliver forming: The cotton slivers produced by the drawing machine are regularly coiled into cotton sliver cans for storage, transportation, and use in the next process.

[0105] The roving process mainly includes steps such as drafting, twisting, and winding.

[0106] Drafting: The sliver is stretched and thinned by 5 to 12 times to further straighten and parallelize the fibers. Because the sliver cross-section after drafting on the roving frame has fewer fibers and better straightening and parallelism, its strength is relatively low. Therefore, a certain amount of twist needs to be added to improve the strength of the roving, in order to avoid accidental elongation during winding and unwinding, and to prepare for the drafting of the yarn.

[0107] Twisting: Twisting increases the strength of the roving and prevents accidental elongation during winding and unwinding.

[0108] Winding: The twisted roving is wound onto a bobbin to form a package of a certain shape and size for storage, handling and feeding into the spinning machine.

[0109] The fine spinning process S400 mainly includes steps such as drafting, twisting, and winding.

[0110] Drafting: The roving is drawn and stretched evenly to the required yarn count. The purpose of this step is to evenly lengthen and thin the roving to meet the requirements of subsequent processes.

[0111] Twisting: Adding an appropriate twist to the drafted sliver gives the yarn certain physical and mechanical properties such as strength, elasticity, luster, and hand feel. The purpose of twisting is to enhance the cohesion between fibers and improve the physical properties of the yarn.

[0112] Winding: The spun yarn is wound onto a bobbin according to certain forming requirements to facilitate transportation, storage, and subsequent processing. This step ensures that the yarn is wound neatly, facilitating subsequent processing and use.

[0113] Through the above process, plant fibers can be used to prepare single yarn 121.

[0114] Multiple strands of single yarn 121 are twisted together to form a fiber bundle 12. Specifically, the multiple strands of single yarn 121 can be twisted together under certain twist conditions to form a fiber bundle 12.

[0115] Here, "twist" refers to the number of twists per unit length of fiber bundle 12. Twist is related to the strength of fiber bundle 12. Generally speaking, the greater the twist, the greater the strength of fiber bundle 12.

[0116] Multiple fiber bundles 12 can be aggregated to form a plug. In other words, multiple fiber bundles 12 aggregated can be formed into a single unit, thus achieving plug shaping without the need for other materials.

[0117] The parallel arrangement of fiber bundles 12 means that the extension direction of the fiber bundles 12 is roughly parallel to the axis of the plug body, that is, a single fiber bundle 12 extends roughly from one end of the axial direction of the plug body to the other end.

[0118] The main material for the pre-plug section in this embodiment is plant fiber. Plant fiber has a wide range of sources, which helps to reduce the production cost of the pre-plug section 10. Plant fiber also has good biodegradability and is more environmentally friendly. In addition, compared with paper plugs, plugs made of plant fiber have relatively high structural strength and stability, are less prone to collapse, and produce less odor when heated, generally without noticeable odor, which helps to improve the user's suction experience.

[0119] Furthermore, the pre-plug section of this application embodiment has several advantages: firstly, its structure is relatively simple, its preparation process is relatively simple, its cost is low, and its product quality is more stable, thus facilitating industrial production; secondly, when the pre-plug section 10 is used in aerosol generation products, it not only provides moisture-proof, easy-to-clean, and anti-seepage properties, but also basically does not affect the amount of smoke generated by the aerosol generation products; and thirdly, it can also provide a new pre-plug section technology for aerosol generation products, enriching the existing pre-plug section technology.

[0120] It should be noted that there are no restrictions on the count of single strand single yarn 121.

[0121] In some embodiments, the count of the single yarn 121 is 32s to 60s. For example, it can be 32s, 34s, 36s, 38s, 40s, 42s, 44s, 46s, 48s, 50s, 52s, 54s, 56s, 58s, 60s, etc.

[0122] Yarn count is a unit that indicates the fineness of a single yarn. The letter symbol for yarn count is "s". The smaller the s value of the yarn count, the coarser the single yarn; the larger the s value of the yarn count, the finer the single yarn.

[0123] In this embodiment, the yarn count of the single yarn 121 is not too high, that is, the single yarn 121 is not too fine. In this way, the single yarn 121 has a certain structural strength, which helps to improve the breakage problem of the single yarn 121 and facilitates subsequent processing. At the same time, the yarn count of the single yarn 121 is not too low, that is, the single yarn 121 is not too thick. In this way, it helps to ensure the texture of the single yarn 121. Furthermore, the twisting of the single yarn 121 is easier during the process of plying and forming the fiber bundle 12, which facilitates the formation of the fiber bundle 12.

[0124] It should be noted that the count of each single yarn 121 in a single fiber bundle 12 can be the same or different, and this application does not impose any restrictions on this.

[0125] For example, at least some of the individual yarns 121 of a single fiber bundle 12 have different counts. This is beneficial for improving the strength and abrasion resistance of the fiber bundle 12. The plyed fiber bundle 12 has higher tensile strength and abrasion resistance.

[0126] In some embodiments, the twist of the fiber bundle 12 is 20 twists / 10cm to 100 twists / 10cm. For example, it can be 20 twists / 10cm, 25 twists / 10cm, 30 twists / 10cm, 35 twists / 10cm, 40 twists / 10cm, 45 twists / 10cm, 50 twists / 10cm, 55 twists / 10cm, 60 twists / 10cm, 65 twists / 10cm, 70 twists / 10cm, 75 twists / 10cm, 80 twists / 10cm, 85 twists / 10cm, 90 twists / 10cm, 95 twists / 10cm, 100 twists / 10cm, etc.

[0127] The twist is related to both the structural strength and adsorption performance of the fiber bundle 12. The greater the twist, the greater the structural strength and adsorption performance of the fiber bundle 12.

[0128] In this embodiment, it is advantageous to control the twist of the fiber bundle 12 within a reasonable range. On the one hand, the twist of the fiber bundle 12 will not be too small, meaning that the fiber bundle 12 has a certain structural strength and adsorption performance. This helps to improve the collapse problem of the plug body, and the plug body has a good adsorption capacity for condensed and refluxed aerosols, thereby improving the pollution problem of the aerosol generation device. On the other hand, the twist of the fiber bundle 12 will not be too large, meaning that the adsorption capacity of the fiber bundle 12 can be reasonably controlled. This helps to reduce the retention rate of the plug body for smoke and nicotine, and helps to improve the nicotine transmission efficiency.

[0129] It should be noted that the twist of each fiber bundle 12 in the plug body can be the same or different, and this application does not impose any restrictions on this.

[0130] For example, at least some of the fiber bundles 12 of the plug have different twists. In this way, the individual fiber bundles 12 work together to better coordinate and control the structural strength and adsorption properties of the plug.

[0131] For example, the cross-section of the plug is divided into two twist regions. The first twist region surrounds the second twist region, and the twist of the first twist region is greater than that of the second twist region. Understandably, during the suction process, the airflow generally flows along the axis of the aerosol-generating product. Thus, when the airflow passes through the plug, it generally flows through the second twist region. The twist of the fiber bundles 12 in the second twist region is smaller, which helps improve the nicotine delivery efficiency. Furthermore, the overall shape of the plug is largely maintained by the fiber bundles 12 located on the outer periphery of the plug. The fiber bundles 12 in the first twist region, located on the outer periphery of the plug, have a greater twist and higher structural strength, which helps improve the overall stability of the plug and reduces the probability of plug collapse.

[0132] In some embodiments, the twist of the fiber bundle 12 is between 30 twists / 10cm and 60 twists / 10cm. For example, it can be 30 twists / 10cm, 32 twists / 10cm, 34 twists / 10cm, 36 twists / 10cm, 38 twists / 10cm, 40 twists / 10cm, 42 twists / 10cm, 44 twists / 10cm, 46 twists / 10cm, 48 twists / 10cm, 50 twists / 10cm, 52 twists / 10cm, 54 twists / 10cm, 56 twists / 10cm, 58 twists / 10cm, 60 twists / 10cm, etc. This makes the twist range of the fiber bundle 12 more reasonable.

[0133] In some embodiments, the diameter of the fiber bundle 12 is 0.5 mm to 5 mm. For example, it can be 0.5 mm, 0.8 mm, 1 mm, 1.2 mm, 1.5 mm, 1.8 mm, 2 mm, 2.3 mm, 2.5 mm, 2.7 mm, 3 mm, 3.3 mm, 3.5 mm, 3.7 mm, 4 mm, 4.2 mm, 4.5 mm, 4.8 mm, 5 mm, etc.

[0134] In this embodiment, the diameter of the fiber bundle 12 is controlled within a reasonable range. On the one hand, the diameter of the fiber bundle 12 is not too small, so the fiber bundle 12 has a certain structural strength, which helps to reduce the probability of the plug collapsing. On the other hand, the diameter of the fiber bundle 12 is not too large, so that the number of single yarns 121 does not need to be too large when multiple single yarns 121 are twisted together to form the fiber bundle 12. That is, the number of single yarns 121 can also be controlled, and twisting is easier, which helps to reduce the difficulty of preparing the fiber bundle 12 and also helps to improve the production efficiency of the fiber bundle 12.

[0135] It should be noted that the diameters of the fiber bundles 12 in the plug body can be the same or different, and this application does not impose any restrictions on them.

[0136] For example, at least some of the fiber bundles 12 of the plug have different diameters. In this way, the fiber bundles 12 work together, thereby controlling the manufacturing difficulty of the fiber bundles 12 within a suitable range, and also helping to ensure the production efficiency of the fiber bundles 12 and the structural strength of the plug.

[0137] In some embodiments, the front plug section 10 further includes a packaging layer 11, which surrounds a receiving space, and at least a portion of the plug is disposed within the receiving space.

[0138] A certain number of air channels will be formed between the fiber bundles 12 of the plug body, and airflow can flow from one end of the plug body to the other end through these air channels.

[0139] The packaging layer 11 can completely cover the plug or cover part of the outer surface of the plug.

[0140] The material of the packaging layer 11 is not limited. For example, the material of the packaging layer 11 can be corrugated paper, kraft paper, parchment paper, imitation parchment paper, yarn tube paper, or coated paper, etc. On the one hand, the packaging layer 11 of this material has a certain degree of toughness, so that it can be rolled up to form the front plug section 10; on the other hand, the packaging layer 11 of this material also has a certain structural strength, which can reduce the probability of deformation of the front plug section 10, that is, it is beneficial to improve the yield of the front plug section 10.

[0141] In addition, the paper packaging layer 11 will not melt or shrink when heated, and the front plug section 10 is not prone to deformation or collapse, thereby reducing the probability of blockage of the air passage inside the front plug section 10 and thus improving the problem of changes in suction resistance during the suction process.

[0142] The packaging layer 11 has a shaping function, which makes the front plug section 10 more stable and the consistency of the produced front plug section 10 is also higher.

[0143] In some embodiments, the filling density of the plug within the accommodating space is 0.1 g / cm³. 3 ~0.3g / cm 3 For example, it could be 0.1 g / cm³. 3 0.12g / cm 3 0.14 g / cm 3 0.16g / cm 3 0.18g / cm 3 0.2g / cm 3 0.22g / cm 3 0.24g / cm 3 0.26g / cm 3 0.28g / cm 3 0.3g / cm 3 etc.

[0144] Here, the filling density refers to the ratio of the weight of all the fiber bundles 12 to the volume of the space (i.e., the containment space) enclosed by the packaging layer 11.

[0145] The packing density is related to the structural strength of the fore-plug section 10 and the air passages formed inside it. Understandably, the higher the packing density, the greater the structural strength of the fore-plug section 10, but the fewer air passages are formed inside it.

[0146] In this embodiment, the range of filling density is more suitable. On the one hand, the front plug section 10 has better structural strength, which helps to reduce the probability of the front plug section 10 collapsing. On the other hand, the interior of the front plug section 10 can also form enough air channels, which helps the airflow through the front plug section 10 to better complete the delivery of aerosol. The suction resistance when the user inhales is more suitable, which helps to improve the user's inhalation experience.

[0147] In some embodiments, the filling density of the plug within the receiving space is 0.15 g / cm³. 3 ~0.25g / cm 3 For example, it could be 0.15 g / cm³. 3 0.17g / cm 3 0.19g / cm 30.21g / cm 3 0.23g / cm 3 0.25g / cm 3 And so on. Thus, the filling density of the front plug section 10 is more suitable.

[0148] In some embodiments, the weight of packaging layer 11 is 25 g / m³. 2 ~70g / m 2 For example, it could be 25g / m³. 2 28g / m 2 31g / m 2 34g / m 2 37g / m 2 40g / m 2 43g / m 2 46g / m 2 49g / m 2 52g / m 2 55g / m 2 58g / m 2 61g / m 2 64g / m 2 67g / m 2 70g / m 2 etc.

[0149] It should be noted that when the basis weight of the packaging layer 11 is low, its processing performance is low, resulting in a relatively low yield of the front plug section 10. When the basis weight is high, the packaging layer 11 may generate some paper impurities during subsequent use, affecting the user's experience.

[0150] In this embodiment, the weight of packaging layer 11 is controlled at 25 g / m³. 2 ~70g / m 2 Within a certain range, this ensures the processing performance of the front stopper section 10 while also reducing paper impurities generated by the front stopper section 10. In other words, it guarantees the yield of the front stopper section 10 while also providing a better user experience in drawing paper.

[0151] In some embodiments, the air permeability of the packaging layer 11 is 10 CU to 6000 CU. (CU is an abbreviation for cm3 / (min*cm2*kPa)). For example, it can be 10 CU, 20 CU, 30 CU, 40 CU, 50 CU, 60 CU, 70 CU, 80 CU, 90 CU, 100 CU, 200 CU, 300 CU, 400 CU, 500 CU, 600 CU, 700 CU, 800 CU, 900 CU, 1000 CU, 1500 CU, 2000 CU, 2500 CU, 3000 CU, 3500 CU, 4000 CU, 4500 CU, 5000 CU, 5500 CU, 6000 CU, etc.

[0152] In this way, the air permeability of the packaging layer 11 is more reasonable, and the airflow can enter its interior through the periphery of the front plug section 10. This helps to reduce the suction resistance of the front plug section 10, thereby improving the user's suction experience.

[0153] In some embodiments, the width of the packaging layer 11 is 16mm to 26mm. For example, it can be 16mm, 17mm, 18mm, 19mm, 20mm, 21mm, 22mm, 23mm, 24mm, 25mm, 26mm, etc.

[0154] In this way, the width of the packaging layer 11 is more suitable, the packaging layer 11 can better wrap the plug body, and it is also conducive to improving the waste problem of the packaging layer 11 and reducing the production cost of the front plug section 10.

[0155] In some embodiments, the circumference of the plug is 15mm to 24mm. For example, it can be 15mm, 16mm, 17mm, 18mm, 19mm, 20mm, 21mm, 22mm, 23mm, 24mm, etc.

[0156] Here, when the plug is roughly cylindrical, the circumference of the plug is the same as the circumference of the cross-section of the cylinder.

[0157] In this embodiment, the size of the plug cross-section can be controlled within a suitable range, and the plug has a better coverage effect on the matrix section 20. This is beneficial to ensuring the adsorption effect of the front plug section 10 on the condensed and refluxed aerosols, and also beneficial to the synergistic effect of the front plug section 10 and the functional section 30, thereby driving the matrix section 20 to leave the containment chamber of the aerosol generation device.

[0158] In some embodiments, the axial dimension of the plug is 2mm to 10mm. For example, it can be 2mm, 3mm, 4mm, 5mm, 6mm, 7mm, 8mm, 9mm, 10mm, etc.

[0159] On the one hand, the plug has a certain size along its axis to ensure the filtration and adsorption effect of the plug on backflow or reflux aerosols, and to ensure the cleanliness of the containment chamber of the aerosol generation device. On the other hand, the plug has a suitable size, which is easy to process, that is, the processing performance is relatively good, which improves the yield rate in the production process of the plug.

[0160] On the other hand, the size of the plug along its axial direction will not be too large. In this way, the suction resistance generated by the plug can be controlled within a suitable range during the process of aspirating aerosol to form products. The suction resistance of the plug will not be too large, which means that it has little impact on the user's aerosol aspiration and helps to ensure the user's aspiration experience.

[0161] In some embodiments, the perimeter of the aerosol-generated article is 15mm to 24mm. For example, it can be 15mm, 16mm, 17mm, 18mm, 19mm, 20mm, 21mm, 22mm, 23mm, 24mm, etc.

[0162] The perimeter of the aerosol-generating product is approximately the same as the perimeter of the front plug section 10. Thus, the gap between the outer wrapping layer and the front plug section 10 is smaller in the radial direction of the aerosol-generating product, which is beneficial for the stable installation of the front plug section 10 within the outer wrapping layer.

[0163] In some embodiments, the axial dimension of the aerosol-generated article is 42mm to 86mm. For example, it can be 42mm, 44mm, 46mm, 48mm, 50mm, 52mm, 54mm, 56mm, 58mm, 60mm, 62mm, 64mm, 66mm, 68mm, 70mm, 72mm, 74mm, 76mm, 78mm, 80mm, 82mm, 84mm, 86mm, etc.

[0164] The axial dimension of the aerosol generating product is more suitable within this range. On the one hand, the aerosol generating product has a certain axial dimension, which makes it easier for users to draw in aerosols and also makes it easier for users to place the aerosol generating product into or take it out of the container. On the other hand, the axial dimension of the aerosol generating product will not be too long, so the suction resistance will not be too great when users draw in aerosols, which helps to ensure the user's drawing experience.

[0165] The following four specific embodiments will further illustrate the aerosol-generating articles provided in this application.

[0166] First embodiment:

[0167] The plug is made of cotton fiber. The cotton fiber is prepared into 32s single yarn 121 through opening, carding, roving, and spinning. The single yarn 121 is then plyed into 10 strands at a twist of 40 twists / 10cm to form fiber bundle 12 with a diameter of 1.5mm. This fiber bundle 12 is then drawn onto a filter rod forming machine and shaped into the plug. The packaging layer 11 has a basis weight of 35g / m². 2 The air permeability is 40 CU, and the width is 19.5 mm. The prepared foreplug section 10 has a filling density of 0.15 g / cm³. 3 The circumference is 17.30 mm and the axial dimension is 6 mm.

[0168] The structure of the aerosol-generated product using the aforementioned front plug section 10 is as follows: 6mm front plug section 10 + 24mm extruded tobacco porous matrix section 20 + 23mm support and cooling section 31 + 7mm filter section 32. The total axial dimension of the aerosol-generated product is 60mm, and the circumference is 17.60mm.

[0169] Second embodiment:

[0170] The plug is made of bamboo fiber. The bamboo fiber is prepared into 40s single yarn 121 through cleaning, carding, roving, and spinning. The single yarn 121 is then plyed into five strands at a twist of 30 twists / 10cm to form fiber bundle 12 with a diameter of 2.0mm. This fiber bundle 12 is then drawn onto a filter rod forming machine and shaped into the plug. The packaging layer 11 has a basis weight of 45g / m³. 2 The air permeability is 40 CU, and the width is 19.5 mm. The prepared foreplug section 10 has a filling density of 0.16 g / cm³. 3 The circumference is 22mm and the axial dimension is 5mm.

[0171] The structure of the aerosol-generating product using the aforementioned front plug section 10 is as follows: 5mm front plug section 10 + 15mm tobacco matrix section 20 + 21mm support and cooling section 31 + 7mm filter section 32. The total axial dimension of the aerosol-generating product is 48mm, and the circumference is 22.60mm.

[0172] Third embodiment:

[0173] The plug is made from a blend of cotton and linen fibers. The cotton fibers are processed through opening, carding, roving, and spinning to produce 32s single yarn 121. The bamboo fibers are processed through opening, carding, roving, and spinning to produce 42s single yarn 121. These two types of single yarn 121 are then plyed together in five strands at a twist of 30 twists / 10cm to form a fiber bundle 12 with a diameter of 3.0mm. This bundle is then drawn onto a filter rod forming machine and shaped into the plug. The packaging layer 11 has a basis weight of 50g / m². 2It has an air permeability of 60 CU and a width of 23.5 mm. The filling density of the manufactured front plug section 10 is 0.15 g / cm³. 3 The circumference is 21.06 mm and the axial dimension is 10 mm.

[0174] The structure of the aerosol-generated product using the aforementioned front plug section 10 is as follows: 10mm front plug section 10 + 30mm extruded tobacco porous matrix section 20 + 16mm support and cooling section 31 + 12mm filter section 32. The total axial dimension of the aerosol-generated product is 68mm, and the circumference is 21.36mm.

[0175] Fourth embodiment:

[0176] The plug is made from a blend of bamboo fiber and soybean fiber. The bamboo fiber is processed through cleaning, carding, roving, and spinning to produce a 42s single yarn 121. The soybean fiber is processed through cleaning, carding, roving, and spinning to produce a 60s single yarn 121. These two types of single yarn 121 are then twisted together at a twist of 40 twists / 10cm to form a fiber bundle 12 with a diameter of 3.5mm. This bundle is then drawn onto a filter rod forming machine and shaped into the plug. The packaging layer 11 has a basis weight of 50g / m³. 2 It has an air permeability of 35 CU and a width of 25 mm. The filling density of the manufactured front plug section 10 is 0.20 g / cm³. 3 The circumference is 22mm and the axial dimension is 7mm.

[0177] The structure of the aerosol-generated product using the aforementioned front plug section 10 is as follows: 7mm front plug section 10 + 15mm extruded tobacco porous matrix section 20 + 16mm support and cooling section 31 + 10mm filter section 32. The total axial dimension of the aerosol-generated product is 48mm, and the circumference is 22.60mm.

[0178] A third aspect of this application provides an aerosol generation system, which includes an aerosol generation device and an aerosol generation article according to any embodiment of this application. The aerosol generation device includes a heating component, and the matrix section 20 generates aerosols under the action of the heating component.

[0179] It should be noted that after the aerosol generation system adopts the aerosol generation article of any embodiment of this application, the aerosol generation system has all the advantages of the aerosol generation article of that embodiment, which will not be repeated here.

[0180] The above embodiments are merely illustrative of the technical solutions of this application and are not intended to limit it. Although this application has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to the transport section or all technical features therein. These modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, and they should all be covered within the scope of the claims and specification of this application. In particular, as long as there is no structural conflict, the various technical features mentioned in the embodiments can be combined in any way. This application is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed herein, but includes all technical solutions falling within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A pre-plug segment for use in an aerosol generating article, the aerosol generating article comprising a matrix segment having a distal lip end and a proximal lip end, the pre-plug segment being disposed at the distal lip end of the matrix segment, the pre-plug segment comprising a plug body comprising a plurality of parallel-arranged fiber bundles, the fiber bundles comprising a plurality of monoyarns, the monoyarns being made of plant fibers.

2. The fore-plug section according to claim 1, wherein, The plant fibers include cotton fiber, hemp fiber, bamboo fiber, or soybean fiber; and / or, The count of the single yarn is 32s to 60s.

3. The fore-plug section according to claim 1, wherein, At least a portion of the single yarn in a single fiber bundle is made of different plant fibers; and / or, At least a portion of the single yarns in a single fiber bundle have different counts.

4. The fore-plug section according to claim 1, wherein, The twist of the fiber bundle is 20 twists / 10cm to 100 twists / 10cm.

5. The fore-plug section according to claim 1, wherein, The twist of the fiber bundle is 30 twists / 10cm to 60 twists / 10cm.

6. The fore-plug section according to claim 1, wherein, The diameter of the fiber bundle is 0.5 mm to 5 mm.

7. The forepump section according to any one of claims 1-6, wherein, The front plug section also includes a packaging layer, which encloses a receiving space, and at least a portion of the plug is disposed within the receiving space.

8. The forepump section according to claim 7, wherein, The filling density of the plug within the accommodating space is 0.1 g / cm³. 3 ~0.3g / cm 3 .

9. The fore-plug section according to claim 7, wherein, The filling density of the plug within the accommodating space is 0.15 g / cm³. 3 ~0.25g / cm 3 .

10. The forepump section according to claim 7, wherein, The weight of the packaging layer is 25g / m³. 2 ~70g / m 2 ; and / or, The air permeability of the packaging layer is 10CU to 6000CU; and / or, The width of the packaging layer is 16mm to 26mm.

11. The fore-plug section according to any one of claims 1-6, wherein, The perimeter of the plug is 15mm to 24mm; and / or, The axial dimension of the plug is 2mm to 10mm.

12. An aerosol-generating product, wherein, include: A matrix segment for generating aerosols, wherein the two ends of the matrix segment along the axis are a distal lip end and a proximal lip end, respectively; The functional segment is located near the lip end; The fore-plug section according to any one of claims 1-11, wherein the fore-plug section is disposed at the distal lip end; An outer wrapping layer that wraps the outer wall of the matrix segment, at least a portion of the outer wall of the functional segment, and at least a portion of the outer wall of the forepump segment.

13. The aerosol-generating article according to claim 12, wherein the perimeter of the aerosol-generating article is 15 mm to 24 mm; and / or, The axial dimension of the aerosol-generated product is 42mm to 86mm.

14. An aerosol generation system, comprising: Aerosol generating apparatus, including heating components; The aerosol-generating article of claim 12 or 13, wherein the matrix segment generates aerosol under the action of the heating component.

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