CN220777401U

CN220777401U - Suction nozzle or filter element, filter, multi-rod, smoking article, cooling element and heated aerosol-generating system

Info

Publication number: CN220777401U
Application number: CN202321182282.2U
Authority: CN
Inventors: 米歇尔·格雷格; 阿里耶夫·拉赫曼; 罗西·安娜·库尔比; 苏迪尔曼·维迪阿托; 乌里安托·巴金; 苏利什焦·维多多
Original assignee: Essentra Filter Products Development Co Pte Ltd
Current assignee: Essentra Filter Products Development Co Pte Ltd
Priority date: 2019-11-06
Filing date: 2020-11-06
Publication date: 2024-04-16
Anticipated expiration: 2030-11-06
Also published as: GB202011277D0

Abstract

The present utility model relates to a mouthpiece or filter element, a filter, a multi-rod, a smoking article, a cooling element, a heated aerosol-generating system. The disclosed suction nozzle, filter element or cooling element (100) comprises: a longitudinally extending core (102) made of a filter material; one or more channels (104) extending longitudinally from an end of the core (102); wherein the or each channel (104) has a non-circular transverse cross-section which varies in the longitudinal direction by rotation about the longitudinal axis L of the suction nozzle, filter element or cooling element (100).

Description

Suction nozzle or filter element, filter, multi-rod, smoking article, cooling element and heated aerosol-generating system

The present application is a divisional application of chinese patent application entitled "filter element, mouthpiece and cooling element" having a filing date of 2020, 11/06, national application number 202090000444.4 (PCT application number PCT/GB 2020/052809).

Technical Field

The use of tube filter elements and tube suction nozzles in smoking articles is known in the art. Typically, a tube filter element comprises a cylindrical core of filter material including channels extending longitudinally from the ends of the cylindrical core. Tube filter elements are often included as part of multi-segment filters, and are typically positioned at the mouth end of a smoking article to provide a unique end appearance. When incorporated into a smoking article, the tube filter element may cause smoke to leave the filter in a concentrated stream directed at the tongue of the user during use.

Background

In recent years, non-combustible smoking products have become increasingly popular. These products include heated tobacco products, also known as tobacco heating products or products that are heated without combustion. The heated tobacco product typically includes tobacco, a heating element, and a power source. The heating element heats the tobacco to generate an aerosol that is delivered to a user via the mouthpiece. The mouthpiece may be used to simulate the sensory aspects of a conventional smoking article filter. In addition, some products that are heated without burning include a cooling element that cools the aerosol before it reaches the mouthpiece.

Disclosure of Invention

According to a first aspect of the present utility model, there is provided a suction nozzle or filter element comprising: a longitudinally extending core made of a filter material; and one or more channels extending longitudinally from an end of the core; wherein the or each channel has a non-circular transverse cross-section which varies in the longitudinal direction by rotation about a longitudinal axis of the suction nozzle or filter element, for example a longitudinal axis extending along the centre of the channel.

The or each channel is configured such that its transverse cross-section at a first point along the length of the longitudinally extending core of filter material is rotatable relative to an adjacent point along the length of the longitudinally extending core of filter material. It will be appreciated that the transverse cross-section of the or each channel may be rotated more or less than 360 degrees along the length of the or each channel.

Applicants have found that during use, smoke passing through the nozzle or filter element takes a non-linear path, such as a helical or spiral path, through the or each channel. It has been found that in use, the mouthpiece or filter element of the present utility model produces a different smoking sensation that is perceived as more diffuse smoke within the mouth than a standard tube filter element or mouthpiece. Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed that the non-linear path taken by the smoke, such as a spiral or helical path, creates differences in these sensory characteristics.

Furthermore, the applicant has found that when the filter element of the present utility model is incorporated into a smoking article comprising tobacco smoking material comprising clove (e.g. Kretec tobacco blend), tobacco smoke has a stronger flavour than smoking articles comprising quasi-tubular filter elements or mouth pieces. Furthermore, the applicant has found that the filter element of the present utility model results in a reduction in the total amount of free dry particulate matter of nicotine in smoke passing through the filter when assembled to a tobacco smoking article such as a cigarette, as compared to a standard tube filter. Applicants have also found that the filter element of the present utility model results in an increased and higher nicotine free dry particulate matter retention rate as compared to standard tube filters.

The or each channel may have a transverse cross-section formed as a modified circle as follows: the modified circle has one or more protruding portions extending from an edge of the circle toward a center of the circle. The transverse cross-section of the or each channel may be a modified circle as follows: the modified circle has two diametrically opposed protruding portions extending from the edge of the circle towards the center of the circle. Alternatively, the or each channel may have a cross-shaped or substantially rectangular transverse cross-section.

The or each channel may comprise an inner surface comprising one or more ridges extending helically around the longitudinal axis of the nozzle or filter element, for example around the longitudinal axis of the channel, for example around the central longitudinal axis of the channel (for example along the inner surface of the or each channel). The one or more ridges protrude from the inner surface of the or each channel. The one or more ridges may be formed on the inner surface of the or each channel.

In the case that the or each channel has a transverse cross-section which is a modified circle having one or more protruding portions extending from the edge of the circle towards the centre of the circle, then the or each channel has a generally cylindrical shape, wherein the inner surface of the or each channel comprises one or more ridges which extend helically around the longitudinal axis of the suction nozzle or filter element, for example around the longitudinal axis of the channel, for example around the central longitudinal axis of the channel.

In the case of a channel or each channel having a cross-shaped transverse cross-section, the or each channel has a generally cylindrical shape, wherein the inner surface of the or each channel comprises four ridges extending helically around the longitudinal axis of the suction nozzle or filter element, for example around the longitudinal axis of the channel, for example around the central longitudinal axis of the channel.

The suction nozzle or filter element may comprise: a longitudinally extending core made of a filter material; one or more channels extending longitudinally from the end of the core, the or each channel having an inner surface; wherein the inner surface of the or each channel may comprise one or more ridges that extend helically around the longitudinal axis of the nozzle or filter element, for example around the longitudinal axis of the channel, for example around the central longitudinal axis of the channel (for example along the inner surface of the or each channel). The one or more ridges protrude from the inner surface of the or each channel. The one or more ridges may be formed on the inner surface of the or each channel.

The applicant has found that in use the presence of one or more ridges extending helically around the longitudinal axis of the mouthpiece or filter element results in a different and improved smoke mouth feel compared to a standard tubular mouthpiece or filter element having a constant transverse cross section in the longitudinal direction.

Applicants have found that during use, smoke passing through the nozzle or filter element takes a helical or spiral path through the or each channel. It has been found that in use, the mouthpiece or filter of the present utility model results in a different smoking sensation of smoke being felt more dispersed within the mouth than a standard tube filter element or mouthpiece. Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed that the helical path taken by smoke results in these different organoleptic properties. Furthermore, the applicant has found that when the filter element of the present utility model is incorporated into a smoking article comprising tobacco smoking material comprising clove (e.g. a Kretec tobacco blend), tobacco smoke has a strong flavour compared to smoking articles comprising a quasi-tubular filter element or mouthpiece.

The applicant has also found that the inclusion of one or more ridges extending helically around the longitudinal axis of the or each channel may result in improved filtration compared to a filter element comprising channels having a constant transverse cross-section in the longitudinal direction. The one or more ridges can increase the surface area of the inner surface of the or each channel, which results in an increased surface area for adsorption. Applicants have found that the filter element of the present utility model results in a reduction in the total amount of free dry particles of nicotine in smoke passing through the filter when assembled into a smoking article such as a cigarette, as compared to a standard tube filter.

It will be appreciated that the longitudinally extending core of filter material has an outer surface and an inner surface. The inner surface of the longitudinally extending core of filter material may define the or each channel. The distance between the outer surface and the inner surface of the core is known as the wall thickness.

Preferably, the longitudinally extending core of filter material is generally cylindrical. The longitudinally extending core of filter material may have a circumference of 14mm to 25 mm. The filter material may be a material conventionally used in tobacco smoke filter manufacture, such as a filamentary material, a fibrous material, a mesh material or an extruded material. The filter material may be a natural or synthetic thread-like tow, for example cotton or a polymer such as polyethylene, polypropylene or cellulose acetate thread.

The filter material may be a thermoplastic polymer or a spinnable polymer such as polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate or polylactic acid. The filter material may be, for example, natural or synthetic staple fibers, cotton linters, mesh materials such as paper (typically creped paper) and manmade nonwoven fabrics, as well as extruded materials (e.g., starch, synthetic foam). Preferably, the filter material is a material that can be hardened using a plasticizer. Preferably, the filter material comprises cellulose acetate tow.

The total denier of the filter material may be about 20,000g per 9000m to 100,000g per 9000m, e.g., 20,000g per 9000m to 80,000g per 9000m, e.g., 20,000g per 9000m to 50,000g per 9000m.

Where the filter material is formed from a single bundle of filaments, the total denier of the filter material may be about 20,000g per 9000m to 50,000g per 9000m, e.g., 30,000g per 9000m to 40,000g per 9000m, e.g., 30,000g per 9000m to 38,000g per 9000m, e.g., 30,000g per 9000m, 32,000g per 9000m, 33,000g per 9000m, 37,000g per 9000m, or 40,000g per 9000m.

Where the filter material is formed from two bundles of filaments, the total denier of the filter material may be about 40,000g per 9000m to 100,000g per 9000m, e.g., 60,000g per 9000m to 80,000g per 9000m, e.g., 60,000g per 9000m to 76,000g per 9000m, e.g., 60,000g per 9000m, 64,000g per 9000m, 66,000g per 9000m, 74,000g per 9000m, or 80,000g per 9000m.

The filament denier may be 5g per 9000m to 9g per 9000m, for example 5g per 9000m, 7.3g per 9000m, 8g per 9000m or 9.0g per 9000m.

Filter materials are generally described with reference to filament denier, total denier and fiber cross section. For example, the filter material may comprise a tow having the following denier: 8.0Y40, 8.0Y32, 7.3Y33 or 9.0Y37. For example, a filter material with a denier of 8.0Y40 means that the filament denier is 8.0g per 9000m, the total denier is 40,000g per 9000m, and the filament has a Y-shaped cross section.

The filter material may include a plasticizer. The filter material may include about 12% to 24% plasticizer by weight of the filter material and plasticizer, such as about 14% to 22%, such as about 16% to 20%, such as about 17% to 19%, such as about 18% by weight of the filter material and plasticizer.

The amount of plasticizer present in the nozzle or nozzle element is calculated as a percentage of the total weight of filter material and plasticizer by the general formula presented below.

In the case of fibrous filter materials such as filament tows, plasticizers are used to rigidify the fibers of the filter material. Stiffening the fibres of the filter material may improve the shape definition of the filter element and in particular the definition of the or each channel. For example, the filter material may include plasticized fibers, such as plasticized tows, such as plasticized cellulose acetate tows. The formation of plasticizers is known in the art. The plasticizer may be, for example, triacetin, triethylene glycol diacetate (TEGDA) or polyethylene glycol (PEG). The plasticizer may be applied to the filter material by spraying onto the surface of the filter material using methods known in the art.

The filter material may optionally include a binder material. The filter material may optionally include a water-soluble binder material. Examples of water-soluble materials include: water-soluble polymeric materials such as polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinylpyrrolidone, polyvinyl ether, starch, polyethylene glycol and polypropylene glycol; blends of water-soluble binders with plasticizers such as triacetin, triethylene glycol diacetate (TEGDA) or polyethylene glycol (PEG); a hot melt water soluble adhesive in particulate form. Inclusion of a water-soluble binder material may further enhance the ability of the filter to degrade easily and rapidly, for example, under ambient conditions.

The filter material may include additives. The additive may be a particulate additive. The particulate additive may be any particulate additive suitable for use in a smoke filter, such as activated carbon, zeolite, ion exchange resins (e.g. weakly basic anion exchange resins), sepiolite, silica gel, alumina, molecular sieves, carbonaceous polymer resins or diatomaceous earth. The particulate additive may be two materials or a mixture of more than two materials. The additive may be a pigment, such as a pearlescent pigment or a thermochromic pigment.

The additive may include a smoke modifying agent (e.g. a flavouring agent). The flavoring agent may be, for example, peppermint, spearmint, peppermint oil, nutmeg, cinnamon, clove, lemon, chocolate, peach, strawberry, vanilla and the like. Smoke improvers (e.g., flavourings) may be applied to the filter material in liquid form. The smoke modifying agent (e.g. flavouring) may be liquefied, for example by heating above the melting point, for example by mixing with a liquid carrier, prior to application to the filter material. The smoke modifying agent (e.g. flavouring) may be mixed with and applied with the plasticiser, for example by spraying a mixture of the smoke modifying agent (e.g. flavouring) and the plasticiser onto the filter material. Preferred smoke modifying agents (e.g. flavouring agents) are menthol or clove. For example, the additive may be sepiolite particles to which mint flavors have been applied.

The suction nozzle or filter element of the present utility model may have a non-constant wall thickness due to the presence of one or more ridges on the inner surface of the or each channel. The wall thickness at the narrowest point may be 0.6mm to 2.3mm, for example 1.8mm to 2.3mm.

The or each channel may be defined by a continuous extrusion element, for example a continuous extrusion element formed of plastics material.

The or each channel may be surrounded by a filter material.

Preferably, the or each channel is defined by the filter material, for example such that the or each channel is surrounded by the filter material. In such a configuration, the longitudinally extending core made of filter material comprises an outer surface and one or more inner surfaces, wherein the or each inner surface defines the or each channel, and the or each inner surface may comprise one or more ridges that extend helically around the longitudinal axis of the mouthpiece or filter element (e.g. around the longitudinal axis of the channel, e.g. around the central longitudinal axis of the channel) (e.g. along the inner surface of the or each channel), the one or more ridges being defined by the filter material. The one or more ridges may protrude from the inner surface of the or each channel. The or each channel may be generally cylindrical, however other shaped channels, for example generally semi-cylindrical, are also possible. It will be appreciated that although the or each channel may be generally cylindrical, the transverse cross-section is not circular, for example the transverse cross-section may be cross-shaped, rectangular or a modified circle comprising one or more protruding portions extending from the edges of the circle towards the centre of the circle. The non-circular transverse cross-section and the varying transverse cross-section along the length of the or each channel provide a unique appearance that can be used to combat counterfeiting.

The or each channel may extend part of the length of a core made of filter material. The or each channel may extend along the entire length of the core. Preferably, the or each channel extends from the mouth end of the core of filter material such that the mouth end of the filter element or mouthpiece has an unusual visual appearance which is useful in combating counterfeiting, whilst also providing an interesting visual appearance to the user.

The diameter of the or each channel at its widest point may be from 1.5mm to 6mm, for example from 1.5mm to 5mm.

In the case of a suction nozzle or filter element having a channel, the diameter of the channel at the widest point of the channel may be 2mm to 6mm, for example 3mm to 5mm, for example 3.4mm to 4.8mm, for example 3.5mm to 4.7mm, for example 3.7mm or 4.5mm.

In the case of a suction nozzle or filter element having two or more channels, the diameter of each channel at its widest point may be 1.5 to 3mm, such as 1.8 to 3.0mm, such as 1.9 to 3.0mm, such as 2mm.

One or more ridges may extend along a portion of the length of the inner surface of the or each channel. Preferably, the ridge extends along the full length of the inner surface of the or each channel. The width of the ridge may be 1.0mm to 2mm, for example 1.2mm to 1.7mm, for example 1.5mm. The width of the ridge may be 0.2mm to 1.5mm.

The inner surface of the or each channel may comprise one ridge, two ridges, three ridges or four ridges extending helically around the longitudinal axis of the suction nozzle or filter element, for example around the longitudinal axis of the channel, for example around the central longitudinal axis of the channel. Preferably, the inner surface of the or each channel comprises two ridges extending helically around the longitudinal axis of the suction nozzle or filter element, for example around the longitudinal axis of the channel, for example around the central longitudinal axis of the channel.

The suction nozzle or filter element may comprise more than one channel extending longitudinally from the end of the core, for example two channels, three channels or four channels.

The outer circumference of the suction nozzle or filter element may be between 14mm and 25 mm.

The length of the suction nozzle or filter element may be between 4.0mm and 50mm, for example between 5mm and 32 mm.

The mouthpiece or filter element may be used as part of a tobacco smoke filter or a filter for non-tobacco smokable material. The suction nozzle or filter element of the present utility model may be incorporated into a multi-segment filter as a single segment. This will enable an increase in the number of features that can be incorporated into the filter. For example, a suction nozzle or filter element according to any of the statements set forth above may be joined with another filter element containing an additive, such as a particulate additive, such as activated carbon particles. The mouthpiece or mouthpiece element of the present utility model may be joined with a mouthpiece element comprising a capsule, such as a frangible capsule, such as a capsule comprising a flavoring agent. The mouthpiece or filter element of the present utility model may be coupled to a filter element containing a flavouring, such as (menthol) or a plurality of flavouring agents.

The mouthpiece or filter element of the present utility model may be incorporated into a smoking article such as a cigarette, cigarillo, cigar or the like. The mouthpiece or filter element of the present utility model may be incorporated into a tobacco heating product or an electronic cigarette. The mouthpiece or filter element may also be used alone or as part of a filter that is assembled by a user to form a smoking article, such as a self-rolling smoking article.

In another aspect of the utility model, there is provided a filter, such as a tobacco smoke filter, comprising a filter element according to any of the statements set forth above. Filters, such as tobacco smoke filters, may also include one or more other filter elements. Such filters comprising more than one filter element may be referred to as multi-stage filters.

The one or more additional filter elements may comprise a longitudinally extending core of filter material as defined above. One or more additional filter elements may include additives.

One or more additional filter elements may include a fully enclosed (e.g., embedded) additive bag embedded therein. The additive may be a particulate additive such as activated carbon (see above), for example enclosed within a filter material that acts as a discrete pocket or pod of particles of the particulate additive that are substantially separated from the filter material and completely enclosed within the filter material. In another example, the fully enclosed (e.g., embedded) pouch of additive may be a frangible capsule or capsules, or one or more frangible microcapsules. The capsules or microcapsules may contain a variety of media, for example smoke modifiers, such as flavourings (such as those disclosed above) and/or liquids, solids or other materials, for example to assist in smoke filtration. The use of capsules or microcapsules is well known in the art.

One or more other filter elements may include flavoring provided in and/or on the wire (thread). "flavor Thread" filter elements are known in the art. Such filter elements incorporate a wire or ribbon element, typically longitudinally aligned in such filter elements, which carries an aerosol modifying agent such as a flavoring.

The filter may comprise an overwrap, such as plugwrap (plugwrap), surrounding the filter element or one or more filter elements. The wrapper may be paper, such as air permeable paper. The weight of the wrapper may be from 20 grams per square meter to 50 grams per square meter, for example from 27 grams per square meter to 35 grams per square meter. Particulate additives such as those described above may be applied to a wrapper or plug wrap surrounding the filter material, for example as described in GB 2261152. Other filter elements may be wrapped by overwraps, such as plug wrap, around other filters. The filter element defined according to any of the statements set forth above and the other filter elements may be together wrapped with an overwrap, such as plug wrap. The overwrap may be used to attach and secure the filter element in place.

The filter may include a first filter element including a longitudinally extending core made of a filter material and a second filter element; one or more channels extending longitudinally from an end of the core; wherein the or each channel has a cross-shaped transverse cross-section which varies in the longitudinal direction by rotation about the longitudinal axis of the nozzle or filter element. The second filter element may include a longitudinally extending core of filter material (e.g., as defined above), and a capsule (e.g., frangible capsule) completely enclosed within the core of filter material. The capsule may contain smoke modifying agents such as flavouring agents, for example peppermint, spearmint, peppermint oil, nutmeg, cinnamon, clove, lemon, chocolate, peach, strawberry, vanilla and the like. The filter may comprise plug wrap surrounding the first filter element and the second filter element. Another plug wrap may individually surround the second filter element.

In another aspect of the utility model there is provided a smoking article comprising a filter, filter element or mouthpiece as described above. The smoking article may comprise a filter as set out above attached to a wrapped rod of smoking material, such as tobacco smoking material. Generally, in the case of a smoking article comprising a plant smoking material, the smoking article comprises a mouthpiece according to any statement set out above. The smoking article may further comprise a tipping wrapper, such as tipping paper. The tipping paper connects the wrapped rod of smoking material to the filter or mouthpiece by engaging around the filter or mouthpiece and the adjacent end of the wrapped rod of smoking material. The tipping paper may be configured to expose portions of the outer surface of the filter/mouthpiece or filter wrapper. The filter may be attached to the wrapped rod of smoking material by a full tipping wrapper that engages around the entire filter or mouthpiece length and adjacent ends of the wrapped rod of smoking material.

The mouthpiece, filter element, filter or smoking article according to the utility model may be unventilated or may be ventilated by methods known in the art, for example by using a pre-perforated or air permeable filter wrap (plugwrap) or tipping wrap (tipping paper), and/or laser perforation of the filter wrap and/or tipping wrap. A mouthpiece, filter element or smoking article according to the present utility model may be ventilated by laser perforation of a longitudinally extending core made of filter material (and of the wrapper (plugwrap) and tipping wrapper (tipping paper), if any). The ventilated complete tipping wrapper (tipping paper) may also be inherently breathable or may be provided with ventilation holes, and for ventilated products in which the filter wrapper (plugwrap) and tipping wrapper (tipping paper) are present, ventilation through the tipping wrapper (tipping paper) is generally consistent with ventilation through the filter wrapper (plugwrap). During the production of filters, filters or filter elements, ventilation holes through the filter wrap (plug wrap) or through the tipping wrap (tipping paper) or through both can be made by laser perforation.

In another aspect of the utility model, a multi-stick is provided comprising a plurality of suction nozzles or filter elements according to the utility model arranged end-to-end in mirrored relation.

In another aspect of the utility model, a cooling element is provided that includes a longitudinally extending core made of a filter material; one or more channels extending longitudinally from an end of the core; wherein the or each channel has a non-circular transverse cross-section which varies in the longitudinal direction by rotation about a longitudinal axis of the cooling element, for example a longitudinal axis extending along the centre of the channel.

Applicants have found that in use, an aerosol generated from heated tobacco is cooled as the aerosol passes through the or each channel. The applicant has also found that the or each passage causes the aerosol to take a non-linear, for example helical or spiral, path through the or each passage which has the effect of cooling the aerosol.

The or each channel may have a transverse cross-section formed as a modified circle as follows: the modified circle has one or more protruding portions extending from the circular edge toward the center of the circle. The or each channel section may be a modified circle as follows: the modified circle has two diametrically opposed protruding portions extending from the edge of the circle towards the center of the circle. Alternatively, the or each channel may have a cross-shaped or substantially rectangular transverse cross-section.

The or each channel may comprise an inner surface comprising one or more ridges extending helically around the longitudinal axis of the cooling element, for example around the longitudinal axis of the channel, for example around the central longitudinal axis of the channel (for example along the inner surface of the or each channel). The one or more ridges protrude from the inner surface of the or each channel. The one or more ridges may be formed in the inner surface of the or each channel.

In the case that the or each channel has a transverse cross-section formed as a modified circle having one or more protruding portions extending from the edge of the circle towards the centre of the circle, then the or each channel has a generally cylindrical shape, wherein the inner surface of the or each channel comprises one or more ridges extending helically around the longitudinal axis of the cooling element, for example around the longitudinal axis of the channel, for example around the central longitudinal axis of the channel.

In the case of a channel or each channel having a cross-shaped transverse cross-section, the or each channel has a generally cylindrical shape, wherein the inner surface of the or each channel comprises four ridges extending helically around the longitudinal axis of the cooling element, e.g. around the longitudinal axis of the channel, e.g. around the central longitudinal axis of the channel.

The cooling element may comprise: a longitudinally extending core made of a filter material; one or more channels extending longitudinally from the end of the core, the or each channel having an inner surface; wherein the inner surface of the or each channel may comprise one or more ridges extending helically around the longitudinal axis of the cooling element, e.g. around the longitudinal axis of the channel, e.g. around the central longitudinal axis of the channel (e.g. along the inner surface of the or each channel). The one or more ridges protrude from the inner surface of the or each channel. The one or more ridges may be formed in the inner surface of the or each channel.

Applicants have found that during use, the heated aerosol passing through the cooling element takes a helical or spiral path through the or each channel. Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed that the helical path taken by the heated aerosol cools the aerosol.

It will be appreciated that the longitudinally extending core of filter material has an outer surface and an inner surface. The inner surface of the longitudinally extending core of filter material may define the or each channel. The distance between the outer surface and the inner surface of the core is called the wall thickness.

The filter material may be a thermoplastic polymer or a spinnable polymer such as polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate or polylactic acid. The filter material may be, for example, natural or synthetic staple fibers, cotton linters, mesh materials such as paper (typically creped paper) and manmade nonwoven fabrics, as well as extruded materials (e.g., starch, synthetic foam). Preferably, the filter material is a material that can be hardened using a plasticizer. Preferably, the filter material comprises cellulose acetate filaments.

The filter material may optionally include a binder material. The filter material may optionally include a water-soluble binder material. Examples of the water-soluble material include water-soluble polymer materials such as polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinylpyrrolidone, polyvinyl ether, starch, polyethylene glycol, and polypropylene glycol; blends of water-soluble binders with plasticizers such as triacetin, triethylene glycol diacetate (TEGDA) or polyethylene glycol (PEG); a hot melt water soluble adhesive in particulate form. Inclusion of a water-soluble binder material may further enhance the ability of the filter to degrade easily and rapidly, for example, under ambient conditions.

The suction nozzle or filter element of the present utility model may have a non-constant wall thickness due to the presence of one or more ridges on the inner surface of the or each channel. The wall thickness at the narrowest point may be 0.6mm to 2.3mm, for example 1.0mm to 2.3mm.

The or each channel may be surrounded by a filter material.

Preferably, the or each channel is defined by the filter material, for example such that the or each channel is surrounded by the filter material. In such a configuration, the longitudinally extending core made of filter material comprises an outer surface and an inner surface, wherein the inner surface defines the or each channel, and the inner surface may comprise one or more ridges that extend helically around the longitudinal axis of the cooling element (e.g. around the longitudinal axis of the channel, e.g. around the central longitudinal axis of the channel) (e.g. along the inner surface of the or each channel), the one or more ridges being defined by the filter material. The one or more ridges may protrude from the inner surface of the or each channel. The or each channel may be generally cylindrical, however other shaped channels, for example generally semi-cylindrical, are possible. It will be appreciated that although the or each channel may be generally cylindrical, the transverse cross-section will not be circular, for example the transverse cross-section may be a cross, rectangle or modified circle comprising one or more protruding portions extending from the edges of the circle towards the centre of the circle.

The or each channel may extend part of the length of a core made of filter material. The or each channel may alternatively extend along the entire length of the core. Preferably, the or each channel extends from the mouth end of a core made of filter material.

In case the cooling element has a channel, the diameter of the channel at the widest point of the channel may be 2mm to 6mm, e.g. 3mm to 5mm, e.g. 3.4mm to 4.8mm, e.g. 3.5mm to 4.7mm, e.g. 3.7mm or 4.5mm.

In the case of a cooling element having two or more channels, the diameter of each channel at its widest point may be 1.5 to 3mm, such as 1.8 to 3.0mm, such as 1.9 to 3.0mm, such as 2mm.

The inner surface of the or each channel may comprise one, two, three or four ridges extending helically around the longitudinal axis of the cooling element, for example around the longitudinal axis of the channel, for example around the central longitudinal axis of the channel. Preferably, the inner surface of the or each channel comprises two ridges extending helically around the longitudinal axis of the cooling element, for example around the longitudinal axis of the channel, for example around the central longitudinal axis of the channel.

The cooling element may comprise more than one channel extending longitudinally from the end of the core, for example two, three or four channels.

The length of the cooling element may be 5mm to 50mm, such as 10mm to 30mm, such as 8mm to 24mm, such as 15mm to 20mm, such as 18mm.

The circumference of the cooling element may be 12mm to 30mm, such as 15mm to 28mm, such as 17mm to 25mm, such as 18mm to 25mm, such as 20mm to 24mm, such as 22mm to 24mm, such as 23mm, such as 22mm. The length of the cooling element may be between 4.0mm and 50mm, for example between 5mm and 32 mm.

The cooling element of the present utility model may be used as part of a heated aerosol-generating system, for example, the cooling element may form part of a heated tobacco product.

In another aspect of the utility model, a heated aerosol-generating system is provided comprising any of the cooling elements described above.

The heated aerosol-generating system may comprise a rod of tobacco material, a heating element, a power source, one or more cooling elements according to the above and a mouthpiece. The one or more cooling elements may be positioned downstream of the heating element and the tobacco rod. In use, the tobacco rod is heated, thereby producing a heated aerosol. The heated aerosol then passes through the one or more cooling elements for cooling the aerosol before the aerosol passes through the mouthpiece and into the mouth of the user.

In another aspect of the utility model, a multi-rod is provided comprising a plurality of cooling elements according to the utility model joined end-to-end in mirrored relation.

In another aspect of the utility model, there is provided a method of manufacturing a suction nozzle, a filter element or a cooling element, the method comprising: pulling the filter material through the forming element to form a longitudinally extending core of filter material, wherein the forming element comprises a rotating rod having a non-circular transverse cross-section, the or each rotating rod forming one or more longitudinally extending channels within the core of filter material, wherein the or each channel has a transverse cross-section that varies in a longitudinal direction by rotation about the longitudinal axis of the suction nozzle, filter element or cooling element.

The or each rod may be generally cylindrical and comprise one or more grooves forming one or more ridges on the inner surface of the or each channel, the one or more ridges extending helically around the longitudinal axis of the nozzle, filter element or cooling element, for example around the longitudinal axis of the channel, for example around the central longitudinal axis of the channel.

The or each bar may have a cross-shaped transverse cross-section, or the or each bar may have a rectangular transverse cross-section.

The forming element may comprise a cavity into which the or each rotating rod protrudes. The chamber may be cylindrical. When the filter material enters the chamber, the walls of the chamber shape the filter material into a longitudinally extending core of filter material, such as a cylindrical rod. As the filter material passes through the chamber, the filter material passes around the or each protruding rotating rod to thereby form one or more channels within the filter material. Rotation of the or each rod causes the transverse cross-section of the or each channel to vary in the longitudinal direction by rotation about the longitudinal axis of the longitudinally extending core.

Where the rod includes one or more grooves, the one or more grooves result in one or more ridges being formed on the inner surface of the channel. One or more ridges are formed on the inner surface of the channel that extend helically about the longitudinal axis of a longitudinally extending core made of filter material as the rod rotates and as the filter material passes around the rod and past the one or more grooves on the rod.

In the case of a bar having a cross-shaped transverse cross-section, the channels formed have a cross-shaped transverse cross-section. The rotation of the rod defines a generally cylindrical channel, wherein four ridges are formed on the inner surface of the channel, which extend helically around the longitudinal axis of the core of filter material, e.g. around the longitudinal axis of the channel, e.g. around the central longitudinal axis of the channel.

It will be appreciated that the diameter of the or each channel at its widest point will be determined by the diameter of the or each rod at its widest point. The size and shape of any grooves in the one or more bars may determine the size and shape of ridges formed on the inner surface of the channel. In addition, the number of grooves present in the or each rod may determine the number of ridges formed on the inner surface of the channel. The pitch of the ridges can be determined by the speed at which the rod rotates, together with the speed at which the filter material is pulled through the forming element.

The filter material may include a plasticizer. The filter material may include about 12% to 24% plasticizer by weight of the filter material and plasticizer, such as about 14% to 22%, such as about 16% to 20%, such as about 17% to 19%, such as about 18% by weight of the filter material and plasticizer. The plasticizer may be, for example, triacetin, triethylene glycol diacetate (TEGDA) or polyethylene glycol (PEG). The plasticizer may be applied to the filter material prior to the filter material entering the forming element, e.g., the plasticizer may be sprayed onto the filter material prior to the filter material entering the forming element.

Depending on the method used to manufacture the mouthpiece or filter element, the filter material may comprise additives. The additive may be a particulate additive. The particulate additive may be any particulate additive suitable for use in a smoke filter, such as activated carbon, zeolite, ion exchange resins (e.g. weakly basic anion exchange resins), sepiolite, silica gel, alumina, molecular sieves, carbonaceous polymer resins or diatomaceous earth. The particulate additive may be two materials or a mixture of more than two materials. The additive may be a pigment, such as a pearlescent pigment or a thermochromic pigment.

The method may include applying heat to the filter material as it passes through the forming element. The applied heat cures the plasticized filter material, thereby hardening the filter material and thereby maintaining the shape formed by the forming element. Heat may be applied to the filter material by applying steam, for example superheated steam. The steam may be applied via an inlet in the forming element such that the filter material is heated as it passes through the forming element.

The method may include the step of applying cooling air to the filter material after the filter material has passed through the forming element. The temperature of the cooling air may be 20 ℃ to 26 ℃, such as 22 ℃ to 25 ℃, such as 22 ℃ to 24.5 ℃.

Drawings

Preferred embodiments of the present utility model will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

fig. 1 is an end view of a suction nozzle, a filter element or a cooling element according to the utility model.

Fig. 2 is a perspective view of a suction nozzle, a filter element or a cooling element according to the utility model.

Fig. 3 is a side view of a suction nozzle, a filter element or a cooling element according to the utility model.

Fig. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the suction nozzle, filter element or cooling element shown in fig. 3.

Fig. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the suction nozzle, filter element or cooling element shown in fig. 3.

Fig. 6 is a cross-sectional end view of a suction nozzle, filter element or cooling element according to the utility model.

Fig. 7 is an end view of a suction nozzle, filter element or cooling element according to the utility model.

Fig. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a suction nozzle, a filter element or a cooling element according to the utility model.

Fig. 9 is an end view of a suction nozzle, filter element or cooling element according to the utility model.

Fig. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a suction nozzle, a filter element or a cooling element according to the utility model.

Fig. 11 is a cross-sectional view of a suction nozzle, a filter element or a cooling element according to the utility model.

Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view of a suction nozzle, a filter element or a cooling element according to the utility model.

Fig. 13 is a perspective view of a multi-segment filter according to the present utility model.

Detailed Description

Fig. 1 shows an end view of a suction nozzle, a filter element or a cooling element according to an embodiment of the utility model. The mouthpiece, filter element or cooling element 100 comprises a longitudinally extending core 102 made of a filter material. The core made of filter material is generally cylindrical (as shown in fig. 2). The core made of the filter material comprises cellulose acetate tow comprising triacetin as plasticizer in an amount of 18% by weight of the filter material and plasticizer. The cellulose acetate tow had a denier of 7.3g per 1000m and a total denier of 36000g per 1000m (7.3Y36). The mouthpiece, filter element or cooling element 100 further comprises a channel 104, which channel 104 extends longitudinally through the core 102 from the end of the core 102. The channels 104 are defined by the filter material forming the core 102. The channels are surrounded by a filter material. As shown in fig. 1 and 2, the channel 104 is centrally located with respect to the core 102 and is generally cylindrical. The suction nozzle or filter element has a perimeter of 23.4 mm.

As shown in fig. 2, the suction nozzle, filter element, or cooling element includes an outer surface 106 defining a longitudinally extending core 102. As shown in fig. 2, the core 102 extends along a longitudinal axis (l). The longitudinally extending core 102 includes an inner surface 108 defining the channel 104. The channel 104 extends along a longitudinal axis l of the core 102. The distance between the outer surface 106 and the inner surface 108 is referred to as the wall thickness, and the wall thickness is 1.2mm. As shown in fig. 1, the inner surface 108 comprises two ridges 110, which ridges 110 extend helically around the longitudinal axis (i) of the nozzle, filter element or cooling element. The ridge 110 extends along the inner surface 108 of the channel 104, and the ridge 110 protrudes from the inner surface 108 of the channel 104. Two ridges 110 are integral with the inner surface 108 and are defined by the core 102 of filter material.

Fig. 3 shows a side view of the filter element, the suction nozzle or the cooling element along a plane defined by the y-axis and the l-axis shown in fig. 2.

Fig. 4 shows a cross-section of a suction nozzle, a filter element or a cooling element along the line A-A as shown in fig. 2. The transverse cross-section of the channel shown in fig. 4 comprises a modified circle with two diametrically opposed protruding members extending from the edge of the circle towards the centre of the circle. The diametrically opposed protruding members correspond to ridges 110 extending helically around the longitudinal axis of the suction nozzle, filter element or cooling element. It will be appreciated that the irregular transverse cross-section of the suction nozzle and filter element of the present utility model may be useful in combating counterfeiting. As shown in fig. 4, the transverse cross-section of the channel 104 is rotated relative to the channel cross-section shown at the end of the filter element 100 as shown in fig. 2.

The ridge 110 extends helically with respect to the longitudinal axis (l) of the nozzle, filter element or cooling element, so that the position of the ridge with respect to the circumference of the channel varies along the length of the filter element, nozzle or cooling element. Such a non-uniform transverse cross-section along the length of the filter element or the mouthpiece provides further tamper-proof properties.

Fig. 5 shows another cross-sectional view of the suction nozzle, the filter element or the cooling element along the line B-B as shown in fig. 3. As shown in fig. 5, the transverse cross-section of the channel 104 is rotated relative to both the transverse cross-section shown in fig. 4 and the end cross-section shown in fig. 2.

Fig. 6 shows a cross-sectional view of another filter element or suction nozzle 200 according to the utility model. The filter element or nozzle 200 shown in fig. 6 is similar to the filter element or nozzle shown in fig. 4 and 5, but includes four ridges 210 extending helically around the longitudinal axis of the nozzle, filter element or cooling element along the inner surface of the channel 204.

Fig. 7 shows an end view and fig. 8 shows a cross-sectional view of another filter element, suction nozzle or cooling element 300 according to the utility model. The filter element, suction nozzle or cooling element 300 shown in fig. 7 and 8 is similar to the filter element, suction nozzle or cooling element shown in fig. 1-6, but the filter element, suction nozzle or cooling element 300 shown in fig. 7 and 8 comprises a channel 304 having a rectangular transverse cross-section. The transverse cross-section of the channel is varied in the longitudinal direction of the core by rotation about the longitudinal axis of the suction nozzle, the filter element or the cooling element.

Fig. 9 shows an end view and fig. 10 shows a cross-sectional view of another filter element, suction nozzle or cooling element 400 according to the utility model. The filter element, suction nozzle or cooling element 400 shown in fig. 10 is similar to the filter element, suction nozzle or cooling element shown in fig. 1-8, but the filter element, suction nozzle or cooling element 400 shown in fig. 9 and 10 comprises a channel 404 having a cross-shaped transverse cross-section. The transverse cross-section of the channel is varied in the longitudinal direction of the core by rotation about the longitudinal axis of the suction nozzle, the filter element or the cooling element.

Fig. 11 shows a cross-sectional view of another filter element, suction nozzle or cooling element 500 according to the utility model. The filter element, nozzle or cooling element 500 shown in fig. 11 is similar to those shown in fig. 1-5, but includes two channels 504a and 504b. Each channel 504a, 504b includes a ridge 510a and 510b that extends helically around the longitudinal axis of the nozzle, filter element, or cooling element.

Fig. 12 shows a cross-sectional view of another filter element, suction nozzle or cooling element 600 according to the utility model. The filter element, nozzle or cooling element 600 shown in fig. 12 is similar to those shown in fig. 1-5, but includes three channels 604a,604b and 604c. Each channel 604a,604b, 604c includes a ridge 610a, 610b, 610c that extends helically around the longitudinal axis of the nozzle, filter element, or cooling element.

Any of the mouthpieces or filter elements shown in fig. 1-12 may form part of a multi-segment filter that is included in a smoking article, such as a cigarette. Some smoking articles include a mouthpiece as described herein, but do not include other filter elements, such as those included in a multi-segment filter.

During use, the smoke travels through the nozzle or filter element and the smoke takes a helical path within the channel, which means that the smoke emerging from the nozzle or filter element will continue to follow the helical path, for example in the case of the user's mouth. The spiral path taken by the smoke affects the taste of the smoke, as described in further detail in the embodiments shown below.

The cooling element may form part of a heated aerosol-generating system, which may form part of a non-combustible product, such as a heated tobacco product. A heated aerosol-generating system generally comprises a heating element, a power source, a tobacco rod, one or more cooling elements, and a mouthpiece. The cooling element described herein may be incorporated into a heated aerosol-generating system between a mouthpiece and a tobacco rod. During use, the heating element heats the tobacco rod to form an aerosol. The aerosol then enters and is cooled by the cooling element. Due to the configuration of the channels, the aerosol takes a helical path through the cooling element which reduces the temperature of the aerosol.

The filter element, the suction nozzle and the cooling element shown in fig. 1 to 12 can be manufactured by the following processes.

The continuously advancing plasticized tow is pulled into the forming member. The forming element comprises a substantially cylindrical chamber into which the rod (mandrel) protrudes.

The shape of the rod determines the cross-sectional shape of the channel. For example, the rods used to manufacture the suction nozzle, filter element or cooling element shown in fig. 1 to 5 are the following cartridges: the barrel includes two diametrically opposed grooves extending along the length of the barrel bar. The rod used to manufacture the suction nozzle, filter element or cooling element shown in fig. 6 is a cylindrical member having two pairs of diametrically opposed grooves. The rod used to manufacture the suction nozzle, the filter element or the cooling element shown in fig. 7 and 8 has a rectangular cross section, and the rod used to manufacture the suction nozzle, the filter element or the cooling element shown in fig. 9 and 10 has a cross-shaped cross section.

In the case of a suction nozzle, a filter element or a cooling element as shown in fig. 11, the shaped element comprises two protruding spindles. In the case of a suction nozzle, a filter element or a cooling element as shown in fig. 12, the shaped element comprises three protruding spindles.

The chamber further comprises a steam inlet for enabling superheated steam to enter the chamber. The rod is connected to an external motor that rotates the rod.

As the plasticized tow advances into the chamber, the tow is shaped into a longitudinally extending cylindrical core by the interior wall of the chamber. The chamber serves as a mold. While the tow is formed by the interior walls of the chamber, the tow is forced around the rod such that channels are formed within the core, the channels being defined by the filter material. The channel shape is defined by the rods described above. As the filter material passes through the chamber, rotation of the rod forms a longitudinally extending channel in which the cross-section of the channel varies in length by rotation about the central longitudinal axis of the channel. In the case of a grooved rod, such as a rod used to manufacture a suction nozzle, a filter element or a cooling element as shown in fig. 1-6, the grooves in the rod define ridges on the inner surface of the channel. Rotation of the rod, and thus rotation of the grooves, causes ridges to be formed on the inner surface of the channel, the ridges extending along the inner surface of the channel and following a helical path about the longitudinal axis of the channel. It is possible to vary the pitch of the ridges by controlling the rotational speed of the rod and the speed at which the tow is pulled through the chamber. The depth and width of each ridge may be modified by varying the depth and width of each groove in the bar. If additional ridges are desired, the bar may include additional grooves. For example, the suction nozzle, filter element or cooling element shown in fig. 6 uses a rod having four grooves.

In the case of a cross-shaped rod, the rod forms a channel having a cross-shaped cross-section. As the rod rotates, a generally cylindrical channel is formed within the core, and the triangular gaps between adjacent prongs of the cross-shaped rod form ridges on the inner surface of the channel.

In the case of a rod with a rectangular cross section, rotation of the rod means that the cross section of the channel will vary in the longitudinal direction by rotating along the longitudinal length of the core.

The diameter of the channel at its widest point can be varied by varying the diameter of the rod at its widest point. Similarly, the diameter of the core made of filter material may be changed by modifying the diameter of the cylindrical chamber. If the desired channel is one that does not include ridges extending along the entire length of the channel, the rod may be modified to not include grooves extending along the entire length of the rod.

Superheated steam enters the chamber via the inlet and heats the plasticized tow. The heat acts to cure the plasticized tow and thereby harden the filter material such that the plasticized tow retains its shape after exiting the forming member.

The filter material exits the forming element in the form of a generally cylindrical, longitudinally extending core that includes longitudinally extending channels within the core. In the case of a rod comprising two grooves, the channel comprises two ridges extending helically along the inner surface of the channel around the longitudinal axis of the channel.

The tow as part of the process described above may be plasticized before the tow enters the forming member, for example, the continuously advancing tow may be sprayed with plasticizer at a plasticizing location positioned prior to the forming member. Alternatively, the plasticizer may be pre-applied to the tow in a separate process.

The generally cylindrical longitudinally extending cores may be further treated with steam and then cooled by a series of air jets, and the generally cylindrical longitudinally extending cores are cut to form a series of individual filter elements, suction nozzles or cooling elements.

Fig. 13 shows a multi-segment filter 700, the multi-segment filter 700 comprising a filter element 400 similar to the filter elements shown in fig. 9 and 10. The filter element 400 includes a longitudinally extending core 402 made of a filter material. As shown in fig. 13, the core is generally cylindrical. The filter element 400 also includes a channel 404, the channel 404 extending longitudinally along the entire length of the core 402 from the end of the core 402. The channels 404 are defined by the filter material forming the core 402, and the channels are surrounded by the filter material. The channel 404 is centrally located relative to the core 402. The channel 404 has a generally cross-shaped transverse cross-section. As shown in the cutaway view portion of fig. 13, the transverse cross-section of the channel 404 is varied in the longitudinal direction by rotating about the longitudinal axis of the filter element 400.

As shown in the cut-away portion of fig. 13, the channel includes four ridges 410 extending helically around the longitudinal axis of the filter element 400.

The multi-segment filter 700 also includes a second filter element 710. The second filter element 710 includes a longitudinally extending core 720 made of a filter material. As shown in the second cutaway portion of fig. 13, the second filter element 710 includes a capsule 740 completely enclosed within a core 720 made of filter material. The capsule may be a frangible capsule containing an aerosol modifying agent, such as a flavoring agent. It will be appreciated that other additives may be included in the core. The second filter element 710 is wrapped with a first plug wrap 750 and the first filter element 400 and the second filter element 710 are wrapped with a second plug wrap 760, the second plug wrap 760 serving to hold the first filter element and the second filter element together.

The second filter element may be made according to standard methods known in the art. The first filter element and the second filter element may be joined and wrapped using standard manufacturing methods known in the art.

Example

Example 1

Four cigarettes comprising filter elements according to the utility model and four control filter cigarettes were prepared. The filter cigarettes according to the utility model were prepared based on standard commercial Kretec (clove flavored) tobacco cigarettes. Standard 27mm monoacetate filter was removed from the cigarette and replaced with a multi-section filter according to the utility model. The multi-section filter of the present utility model comprises a 20mm long section of removed standard monoacetate filter joined to a 7mm long filter element of the present utility model.

The control cigarette comprises a multi-segment filter comprising a 20mm cellulose monoacetate filter joined with a 7mm standard tube filter.

The filter cigarette is smoked by four users. The user reports that a filtered cigarette comprising the filter element of the present utility model produces tobacco smoke having a strong taste and more evenly dispersed in the mouth than a control cigarette. The user reported that the control cigarette comprising a standard tube filter element produced smoke that concentrated on the tongue.

Example 2

A filter cigarette comprising a single filter element as shown in figure 1 was assembled. Other filter cigarettes comprising a single filter element as shown in figures 7 and 8 were assembled.

A filter cigarette comprising a single standard tube filter element with a continuous transverse cross-section channel is assembled.

Each type of filter cigarette was tested by smoking under standard conditions and the free dry particulate matter (NFDPM) yield of total nicotine was measured (according to standards isois 17025, ISO3308, ISO 4387).

Applicants have found that cigarettes comprising filter elements of the utility model have lower NFDPM yields than cigarettes comprising a single standard tube filter element.

Example 3

A filter cigarette is assembled. The filter cigarette comprises a multi-segment filter comprising a single 7mm standard tube filter element joined with a 20mm monoacetate filter. The standard tube filter comprises channels with a continuous transverse cross-section. The multi-segment filter is attached to the tobacco rod. Other filter cigarettes are assembled and include a multi-segment filter having either of filter elements A, B or C. Each of the filter elements A, B or C has a length of 7mm.

Filter element a is a single filter element as shown in fig. 1-5.

Filter element B is a single filter element as shown in fig. 7 and 8.

The filter element C is a single filter element as shown in fig. 9 and 10.

Total Particulate Matter (TPM) is measured for each of the filter elements tested. The total particulate matter in the mainstream smoke exiting the filter was measured by performing a smoking test under standard conditions using the method according to ISO 4387. The total particulate matter collected by the filter was measured using gravimetric analysis. The filtrate was extracted using isopropanol and the extracted mixture was analyzed using gas chromatography coupled with a flame ionization detector (GC-FID) to determine the amount of nicotine. The analysis is performed according to standard ISO 10315. The extracted mixture was also analyzed using gas chromatography coupled with a heat conductive detector (GC-TCD) to determine the amount of water. The analysis is performed according to standard ISO 10362.

The amount of nicotine free dry particulate matter NFDPM (tar) is calculated by the following formula:

nfdpm=tpm-nicotine-water (mg/cig)

Tar and nicotine retention was calculated according to the following formula:

the amount of nicotine in the filter after smoking is measured according to the method described above. The amount of NFDPM in the post-smoking filter was calculated as described above.

The results of NFDPM retention and nicotine retention are summarized in table 1 below.

TABLE 1

As shown in table 1 above, the filters of the present utility model (including filter elements A, B and C) exhibited higher NFDPM retention than standard tube filters. Additionally, in addition to filter element a, the filter element of the present utility model exhibits a similar or higher nicotine retention rate than a standard tube filter.

Example 4

A cooling element according to the utility model was prepared. The cooling element has the configuration as shown in fig. 1 to 5 and described above. The cooling element had a length of 18mm and a circumference of 22.53mm.

The cooling element of the comparative example, which was 18mm in length, was also formed of a crimped polylactic acid (PLA) filter material.

The cooling element according to the utility model and the cooling element of the comparative example are each assembled to a separate tobacco heating product device and the device is smoked using a linear smoking machine under conditions according to standard ISO 20778.

The amounts of hydroquinone, resorcinol and catechol in the vapors leaving the apparatus were measured using High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) together with fluorescence detection (FLD).

The results from these tests are listed in table 2 below.

Parameters (parameters)	Cooling element A	Cooling element of comparative example
			Cigarette (Puffs)	12	12
Hydroquinone/. Mu.g	2.53	4.03
			Resorcinol/. Mu.g	0.77	0.90
Catechol/. Mu.g	4.67	11.09

As shown in table 2, the cooling element of the present utility model significantly reduced the amount of hydroquinone, resorcinol and catechol present in the steam leaving the apparatus.

Claims

1. A suction nozzle or filter element, the suction nozzle or filter element comprising: a longitudinally extending core made of a filter material; one or more channels extending longitudinally from an end of the core, the or each channel having an inner surface; characterized in that the inner surface of the or each channel comprises two or more ridges extending helically around the longitudinal axis of the suction nozzle or the filter element.

2. A nozzle or filter element as claimed in claim 1, wherein the or each channel is defined by the filter material.

3. A nozzle or filter element as claimed in claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the or each channel extends along the entire length of the core.

4. A nozzle or filter element as claimed in claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the two or more ridges extend along the entire length of the inner surface of the channel.

5. A nozzle or filter element according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the two or more ridges are integrally formed with the inner surface of the channel.

6. A suction nozzle or filter element according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the suction nozzle or filter element comprises two channels, three channels or four channels.

7. A nozzle or filter element according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the perimeter of the longitudinally extending core of filter material is 14mm to 25mm.

8. A nozzle or filter element according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the longitudinally extending core of filter material has a total denier of 20000g per 9000m to 100000g per 9000m.

9. A nozzle or filter element according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the filter material comprises cellulose acetate.

10. A nozzle or filter element according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the filter material comprises a plasticiser.

11. A filter, characterized in that the filter comprises a filter element according to any one of claims 1 to 10 as a first filter element.

12. The filter of claim 11, wherein the filter includes another filter element coupled to the first filter element.

13. A filter according to claim 12, wherein the further filter element comprises an additive.

14. The filter of any one of claims 11 to 13, further comprising a second filter element joined to the first filter element, the second filter element comprising a longitudinally extending core of smoke filtering material and a capsule fully enclosed within the core of smoke filtering material, wherein the capsule contains a smoke modifying agent.

15. A filter according to any one of claims 11 to 13, wherein the channels have a cross-shaped transverse cross-section.

16. A multi-stick comprising a plurality of suction nozzles or filter elements according to any one of claims 1 to 10 joined end to end in mirrored relation.

17. A smoking article comprising a mouthpiece or a filter element according to any of claims 1 to 10 or a filter according to any of claims 11 to 15, the mouthpiece, filter element or filter being attached to a rod of smokable material.

18. A cooling element, the cooling element comprising: a longitudinally extending core made of a filter material; one or more channels extending longitudinally from an end of the core, the or each channel having an inner surface; characterized in that the inner surface of the or each channel comprises two or more ridges extending helically around the longitudinal axis of the cooling element.

19. A heated aerosol-generating system comprising a cooling element according to claim 18.