DE69628745T2 - CIGARETTE AND HEATING DEVICE FOR AN ELECTRIC SMOKING SYSTEM - Google Patents

Description

Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to generally electrical smoke systems and especially cigarettes that are adapted to use electrical lighters from electrical smoke system cooperate, and a heater for use in electrical Smoke systems.

Background of the Invention

Conventional cigarettes give flavor and seasoning to the smoker as a result of a burn during which a mass of flammable material, mainly Tobacco is burned at temperatures that often exceed 800 ° C during a train. Heat will sucked through an adjacent mass of tobacco by the mouth end is sucked. While heating gives an inefficient oxidation of the combustible Different gaseous materials Combustion products and distillates from the tobacco. If those gaseous Products are sucked through the cigarette, they cool and condense, to form an aerosol that delivers the flavors and flavorings that come with a Smoking related.

Conventional cigarettes have several perceived disadvantages associated with them. one of these is the production of sidestream smoke during one Glow between trains what for non-smokers can be uncomfortable. Once lit, they must be completely used up or be discarded. A reignition of a conventional one Cigarette is possible but is usually for a judgmental Subjective smokers (Aroma, taste, smell) an unattractive suggestion.

An alternative to the more conventional ones Cigarettes include those with the flammable material even the tobacco aerosol does not release itself. Such smoking articles can a combustible carbon-containing heating element (heat source), which is arranged at or around one end of the smoking article, and contain a bed of tobacco-laden items that are adjacent to the aforementioned Heating element are arranged. The heating element comes with a match or a cigarette lighter inflamed, and when a smoker pulls on the cigarette, it gets through the heating element generated heat transmitted to the bed of tobacco-laden items so that causes is that the bed releases a tobacco aerosol. Little during this type of smoking device or produces no sidestream smoke, it still produces combustion products at the heat source and once its heat source inflamed in a practical sense with regard to future use not liked to be noticed through the nose. In both the more conventional as well as carbon heated devices described above burns during their use instead. This process naturally causes many By-products when the burned material is broken down and with the surrounding atmosphere interacts.

Co-pending and shared U.S. Patent Applications Serial-No. 08 / 380,718, filed September 30 1995 (PM 1697 Cont), and Serial-No. 07 / 943,504, filed on November 11, September 1992 (PM 1550), along with U.S. Patents 5,093,894, 5,225,498, 5,060,671 and 5,095,921 disclose various heating elements and aroma-producing articles that have a sidestream smoke significantly decrease while they allow the smoker that he selectively stops smoking and resumes. However are the cigarette articles disclosed in these patents are not very durable and can collapse, tear or from extensive or rough handling break. Under certain circumstances can these earlier ones Cigarettes break because they are even weaker and can tear or break when ignited by the lighter be removed.

The aforementioned U.S. patent application Serial-No. 08 / 380,718 (PM 1697 Cont) and US 5,388,594 describe an electrical smoking system that includes a new electrically powered lighter and a new cigarette that interacts with the lighter. The preferred embodiment of the lighter includes a plurality of metallic serpentine heaters arranged in a configuration that slidably receives a tobacco rod ("tobacco stick") portion of the cigarette.

The preferred embodiment the cigarette in serial no. 08 / 380,718 (PM 1697 Cont) and also disclosed in EP-A-0,615,411 comprises a tobacco-laden tubular carrier, a cigarette paper, that wrapped around the tubular support is an arrangement of flow filter rods at a mouthpiece end of the carrier and a filter rod on the free (distal) end of the carrier. The Cigarette and the lighter are configured so that when the cigarette is inserted into the lighter, and when individual heaters are activated for each train, localized charring at points around the cigarette at the location occurs where each heater was against the cigarette (below labeled "heater footprint"). As soon as all Heaters have been activated, these are charred points arranged close to each other and surround a central one Part of the support part the cigarette.

Depending on the maximum temperatures and total energies that depend on the heaters given, the charred spots reveal more than just discoloration of the cigarette paper. In most applications, charring creates at least very small breaks in the cigarette paper and underlying substrate which breaks tend to mechanically weaken the cigarette. In order for the cigarette to be pulled out of the lighter, the charred points must at least partially slide past the heating devices. Under difficult circumstances, such as B. if the cigarette is wet or is played with it or is twisted, the cigarette can break easily or leaves pieces when it is pulled out of the lighter. Pieces left in the lighter retainer can interfere with the proper operation of the lighter and / or give off a smell to the smoke of the next cigarette. If the cigarette breaks in two as it is pulled out, the smoker may not only face the frustration of a cigarette product that failed to achieve its purpose, but also the prospect of removing debris from a clogged lighter before he or she she can enjoy another cigarette.

The preferred embodiment the cigarette from US-Ser.-No. 08 / 380,718, EP-A-0,615,411 and Patent-No. 5,388,594 is essentially a hollow tube between the filter rods at the mouthpiece end of the cigarette and the rod at the distal end. It is believed that this construction increased a tax to the smoker, by providing sufficient space in which aerosol away from the carrier with minimal impact and condensation of the aerosol on any nearby located surfaces can develop.

Several suggestions have been made the one unwanted Reduce sidestream smoke significantly while allowing the smoker a smoking article for a desired one Period and then resumes smoking. For example, reveal the transmitted together US Patent Nos. 5,093,894; 5,225,498; 5,060,671 and 5,095,921 different Heating elements and aroma-producing systems. EP-A-0,615,411 and U.S. Patent No. 5,388,594 disclose an electric smoke system with heaters that are controlled by control and logic circuitry actuated become. The heaters are preferably a relatively thin, serpentine structure, for adequate amounts of heat to transfer to the cigarette and it is lightweight.

Although these devices and heaters are the overcome observed problems and achieve the stated goals are many embodiments a mechanical weakening and possible Failure due to stress caused by insertion and removal of the cylindrical Tobacco medium are induced, and also by adjusting or playing with the introduced Subjected to cigarette.

Undesired electrical short circuits can also occur if the shape of a heater arrangement is changed, e.g. B. by adjusting or playing with the introduced Cigarette.

Also use the electric smoke systems electrically resistive heaters the relatively complicated have made electrical connections necessary by introduction and Cigarette removal impaired can be.

If we cut with filler the hollow structure of the cigarette was included in EP-A-0,615,411 It discovers such cigarettes when they are fully cut filler tobacco filled were, tended for the first few moves in an electric lighter to work inappropriately. After that, her levy tended to decrease gradually. The same phenomenon tended to occur when more conventional Cigarettes have been smoked in an electric lighter, such as B. the electric lighter, which is disclosed in EP-A-0,615,411.

If they were left unfilled the hollow cigarette structures of the preferred embodiments EP-A-0,615,411 also somewhat prone to collapse from an extreme or rough handling.

The invention is in its various Aspects by the independent Expectations defined that attached to it are.

A cigarette, the aspects of the present Realized invention has the advantage of cut filler included, but still operable with consistency if it is smoked as part of an electrical smoking system.

A cigarette, aspects of the invention realized has the advantage of containing cut filler and to be adapted to work with an electric lighter and to give satisfactory levels of taste and flavor.

A cigarette, the aspects of the present Realized invention has the advantage of cut filler included, but still improved consistency in a delivery from train to train.

Cigarettes, aspects of the invention can realize easy to manufacture and packed in attractive packaging become. Cigarettes that implement aspects of the invention must be physical be robust and condensation and / or filtration of aerosol in the cigarette and / or the lighter. You can continue while pulling the cigarette out of its lighter resistant to breakage his.

Cigarettes, aspects of the invention realize and for consumption with a lighter of an electric smoke system are suitable during a raw consumer handling less prone to collapse or break.

Cigarettes, aspects of the present Embody invention and for consumption with a lighter an electrical smoke system are suitable during manufacture or Do not collapse or break the packaging of the cigarette easily.

Cigarettes, aspects of the invention embody and with an electric lighter are ready for operation for cost-saving Process of manufacturing even at production speeds to be useful.

Heaters, the aspects of Embody invention, can Generate smoke from a tobacco medium without continuous combustion, can the generation of undesirable Reduce sidestream smoke enable, that the smoker ceases to use and resumes, and can improve aerosol production in the smoke system.

A heater structure that realizing the invention can provide a desired number of trains and easily modified to the number and / or duration of trains to change, which are provided without the subjective qualities of the Tobacco to be sacrificed.

A heating element that the invention realized, can mechanically introduce and remove a Cigarette.

An electric resistance heater, Realized the aspects of the invention, simplified connections with a connected power source.

A heating element that has aspects of Invention can be realized during Heating cycles should be mechanically stable.

Embodiments of the invention can a variation of an interface between the heating element and the cigarette to minimize changes in heat transfer to avoid.

A heater embodying the invention realized can be more economical to manufacture.

A preferred embodiment provides a smoke system to deliver a flavored tobacco response to a smoker. The system includes a cigarette and an electric one powered lighter, what kind of lighter comprises a plurality of electric heaters, wherein each of the heaters is customized to either individually or all together a predetermined amount of tobacco aerosol from the Release cigarette when activated. The cigarette includes a tubular tobacco track, where a first part of the tubular tobacco track with a pillar filled with tobacco is, preferably in the form of cut filler, and a second part of the tubular tobacco track unfilled or left hollow to define a cavity in the tobacco column.

More specifically, the aforementioned cigarette includes preferably a tobacco rod which is formed by a tubular tobacco track, and an insert of tobacco placed in the tubular tobacco lane is. The tobacco rod is adapted to be slidable by an electric one Heater holder to be included so that the heating elements next to the tobacco rod at a point between the free end and an opposite end of the tobacco rod are localized. The insert preferably extends (or the pillar) of tobacco from the free end of the tobacco rod to a place which are spaced from the opposite end of the tobacco rod is to create a cavity (or pick part) adjacent to the opposite Define end.

The relative dimensions of the cigarette and the lighter heater holder are determined so that at insertion the cigarette in the lighter each heater next to the tobacco rod at a predetermined Location is localized along the tobacco rod, and preferably so that the longitudinal extent one touch between the heater and the cigarette (hereinafter "the heater footprint") for at least part of the aforementioned Cavity and at least part of the use of tobacco. By doing so, it becomes a consistent and satisfactory one Received a tax if the cigarette is smoked electrically, and condensation of tobacco aerosol on or around the heating elements is reduced.

In the alternative, the relative dimensions the lighter cigarette holder and heater holder determines that upon insertion the cigarette in the lighter each heater is located next to the tobacco rod so that at least some, if not all, of the heater footprints just above that filled Part of the tobacco rod (above the use of tobacco). In such configurations, the cavity still be used to facilitate aerosol formation and cool the smoke to help.

Preferably a cigarette paper around the tubular tobacco track wrapped to give the look and feel of a more conventional one Cigarette while of handling by the smoker.

The tobacco track preferably includes a non-woven tobacco carrier web and a layer of tobacco material running along at least one Side of the tobacco carrier web is localized.

The cigarette preferably also includes a filter mouthpiece on the aforementioned opposite The end of the tobacco rod, which includes a through-flow filter rod (also known in the art as a "whistle-through rod"), a mouthpiece filter rod, and tipping paper that attaches the rods to the tobacco rod.

If a cigarette, the present Invention realized in a lighter of an electric smoke system introduced the cigarette is aimed against a stop that is in the lighter heater fixture is located (or at an equivalent Device) so that the electric heater elements of the lighter are consistent next to the cigarette in generally the same place for each cigarette are localized. When a move is started, at least one the igniter heaters activated in response to the cigarette at the aforementioned location to heat along the tobacco rod. When a train progresses the tobacco rod is heated and aerosol is removed from the tobacco lane and the fountain pen driven. Where the heater footprint over the cavity in the tobacco rod , tobacco aerosol is almost immediately in the space in the unfilled part the tobacco rod is defined, released and out of the cigarette sucked out. The tobacco track controls most of this fraction of the total aerosol released by the cigarette and it is believed that its immediacy is the nature and the extent of Pull the smoker favorably influenced by the cigarette. Because of the larger mass of tobacco on the filled Part of the tobacco rod there is a slight delay in the release of aerosol from where the heater footprint is over the filled part of the string. The aerosol that is away from the filled one Part of the tobacco rod is driven, controls an additional one dominant aroma and character to smoke.

Another aspect of the present Invention is the ability to adjust a cigarette dispensing of an electric smoking system, where the proportional amount of overlap between the filled and unfilled Part of the tobacco rod through the heater footprint the desired Adjustments in a charge from one brand of cigarette to another or within range extensions of the same brand.

Yet another aspect of the present Invention is a method for improving levels and consistency dispensing an aerosol from a cigarette using an electronic Heizvorrichtungsgerät is operated, the cigarette having a free end and an opposite end End. The process includes the steps: overlay a heater footprint across both a tobacco-filled one Part of the cigarette adjacent to the free end as well as an unfilled part the cigarette adjacent to the opposite end, at the same time Resistance heating along the heater footprint and pulling the cigarette through its opposite end.

Yet another aspect of the present Invention is a fountain pen Provide containing cigarette that is ready for use with an electric lighter which cigarette includes: a tobacco rod with a free flow filter and a fountain pen-free String part adjacent to the free flow filter to ensure a consistent To promote aerosol production.

Another aspect of the present Invention is an amplified one tubular tobacco track with a flax or wood cellulose pulp that goes to their carrier web added is an additional Provide strength. In the alternative, cellulose pulp can of tobacco stem raw material in the composition of the carrier web as a reinforcing fabric be included.

The cigarette becomes robust by including cut filler in the confines of its tubular tobacco track improved to provide a cigarette that is easy to handle can withstand better, including handling by Cigarette making machines and by consumers.

A heater embodying the invention realized, preferably comprises a supporting hub and a plurality of electrically resistive heating sheets that define a container, to an imported To take cigarette. Each sheet includes a first heater sheet leg with a first end and a second end and that at the first end extends from the supporting hub and a second heater blade leg with a first end and a second end and a connecting section, which is the second end of the first leg and the first end of the second leg connects. The second end of the second leg extends towards the supporting hub and is electrical isolated from it. A resistance heating circuit is formed to the to heat electrically resistive heating sheet, which in turn the introduced Heated cigarette. The first and second leg are through one Gap separated to carry away of air to allow to develop aroma substances from the heated cigarette to allow when pulled by a smoker.

Embodiments of the invention are now based on examples and with reference to the accompanying Described drawings.

The 1 and 2 are perspective views of an electronic smoking system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

3 FIG. 14 is a broken perspective view of a cigarette associated with the heater holder of FIG 1 shown smoke system is engaged;

4A Fig. 4 is a side sectional view of a cigarette constructed in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

4B is a detailed perspective view of the in 4A Darge presented cigarette, with certain components of the cigarette are partially peeled off;

the 5A and 5B are flow diagrams of steps in a preferred process for making bobbins of the tobacco web shown in Figs 4A and 4B illustrated cigarette, being 5A represents the steps of converting tobacco raw material into a sheet of tobacco web and 5B represents the steps of converting the tobacco sheet bow to tobacco sheet bobbins;

6A 10 is a side cross-sectional view of a cigarette constructed in accordance with a substantially hollow embodiment of the present invention;

6B FIG. 12 is a graphical representation of aerosol production versus time during each puff as generated by a cigarette made in accordance with the substantially hollow embodiment of the present invention of FIG 6A is constructed;

6C is a layout of a smoke meter that was used to create data in the 6B . 7B and 8th are shown;

7A Fig. 3 is a side cross-sectional view of a cigarette constructed in accordance with a fully filled embodiment of the present invention;

7B FIG. 12 is a graphical representation of aerosol production versus time during each puff as generated by a cigarette made in accordance with the fully filled embodiment of FIG 7A is constructed;

8th is a graphical comparison of an aerosol volume on each sequential puff, as by any cigarette, from those related to the 4A . 6A and 7A are described;

9 FIG. 14 is a graphical representation of the relationship between total particulate matter (TPM) delivery and the amount of heater overlap over the filled portion of the partially filled cigarette made according to the preferred embodiment ( 4A ) the present invention is constructed;

10 Figure 12 is a side cross-sectional view of a cigarette constructed in accordance with a second preferred embodiment of the present invention;

11 Figure 12 is a side cross-sectional view of a cigarette constructed in accordance with a third preferred embodiment of the present invention;

12 Fig. 4 is a side cross-sectional view of a heater holder that implements another aspect of the present invention;

13 Figure 3 is a side view of a heater assembly embodying another aspect of the present invention;

14 Fig. 4 is a side cross-sectional view of a heater holding device embodying another aspect of the present invention using an electrical insulator layer;

15 FIG. 12 is a side cross-sectional view of a heater holder that realizes an aspect of the present invention that uses an electrical insulator layer that forms a hub; FIG.

16 Fig. 3 is a side cross-sectional view of a heater holding device embodying an aspect of the present invention having serpentine-shaped heater blade legs;

17A Fig. 12 is a front cross-sectional view of a heater sheet with a flat bottom facing an inserted cigarette;

17B Fig. 12 is a front cross-sectional view of a heater sheet with an angled bottom facing an inserted cigarette;

17C Fig. 4 is a front cross-sectional view of a heater sheet with a curved bottom facing an inserted cigarette;

18 Figure 4 is a top view of a symmetrical arrangement of heating sheets in a flat condition before rolling;

19 Figure 4 is a top view of a non-symmetrical arrangement of heating sheets in a flat condition prior to rolling;

20 Fig. 3 is a radial cross-sectional view of the electric smoking system embodying the present invention, showing an alternative heater embodiment;

21 FIG. 12 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the aroma cartridge receiving cavity of the electrical smoking system of FIG 20 , taken from line A - A of 20 ;

22 Fig. 12 is a radial cross-sectional view illustrating another alternative heater embodiment; and

23 FIG. 12 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the aroma cartridge receiving cavity of the electrical smoking system of FIG 22 , taken from line B - B of 22 ,

Full Description of the preferred embodiments

With respect to the 1 and 2 represents a preferred embodiment of the present invention a smoking system 21 ready that a partially filled fountain pen cigarette 23 and a reusable lighter 25 includes. The cigarette 23 is adapted to be in a container 27 at a front end part 29 of the lighter 25 to be introduced and removed from it. As soon as the cigarette 23 is introduced, the smoke system 21 used in about the same way as a more conventional cigarette, but without lighting or smoldering the cigarette 23 , The cigarette 23 is discarded after one or more train cycles. Preferably each cigarette delivers 23 a total of eight puffs (train cycles) or more per smoke; however, it is a matter of practical design to accommodate a lesser or greater total number of trains available.

The lighter 25 includes a housing 31 with a front and rear housing part 33 and 35 , One or more batteries 35a are in the rear part of the housing 35 removably arranged and carry energy to a plurality of electrically resistive heating elements 37 to that in the front housing part 33 adjacent to the container 27 are arranged. A control circuit 41 in the front part of the housing 33 creates an electrical connection between the batteries 35a and the heating elements 37 , Preferably the rear part 35 adapted to be opened and closed easily, e.g. B. with screws or snap-in components to facilitate replacement of the batteries. If desired, an electrical socket or contacts can be provided for recharging the batteries with household electricity or the like.

The front housing part is preferably 33 with the rear housing part 35 removably connected, e.g. B. with a dovetail connection or a socket fit. The housing 31 is preferably made of a hard heat-resistant material. Preferred materials include metallic or more preferably polymeric materials. The housing preferably has 31 Overall dimensions of approximately 10.7 cm by 3.8 cm by 1.5 cm so that it can fit comfortably in the hand of a smoker.

The batteries 35a are dimensioned so that they have sufficient energy for the heating devices 37 provide to function as intended and preferably comprise a replaceable and rechargeable type. Alternative energy sources are suitable, such as. B. capacitors. In the preferred embodiment, the energy source comprises four nickel-cadmium battery cells which are connected in series with a total open circuit voltage of approximately 4.8 to 5.6 volts. The characteristics that are required for the energy source, however, are related to the characteristics of other components in the smoke system 21 selected, in particular the characteristics of the heating elements 37 , U.S. Patent No. 5,144,962 (PM 1345) describes several types of energy sources that are useful in connection with the smoke system of the present invention, such as: B. rechargeable battery sources and power assemblies that include a capacitor that is rechargeable by a battery.

By now on 3 Reference is made to the front housing part 33 of the lighter 25 a substantially cylindrical heater holder 39 who have the cigarette 23 slidably picks up. The heater holder 39 houses the heating elements 37 and is adapted to an imported cigarette 23 in a fixed relationship with the heating elements 37 to wear so the heating elements 37 are positioned next to the cigarette at approximately the same location along each cigarette. The place where each heating element 37 against (or in heat contact with is) a fully inserted cigarette 23 is referred to herein as a heater footprint.

To ensure consistent heating element placement 37 in relation to every cigarette 23 The heater holder is to ensure from cigarette to cigarette 39 with one stroke 182 against which the cigarette is placed during its placement in the lighter 25 is forced. Other tools for setting up the cigarette 23 in relation to the lighter 25 could be used instead.

The front part of the case 33 of the lighter 25 also includes electrical control circuitry 41 which a predetermined amount of energy from the energy source 35a to the heating elements 37 emits. In the preferred embodiment, the heater holder comprises 39 eight circumferentially spaced heating elements 37 with the container 27 concentrically aligned and of a snake shape. Details of the heater 37 are in the jointly transmitted US serial no. 07 / 943,504 (PM 1550), which is hereby pending, and in commonly assigned U.S. Patent No. 5,388,594 (PM 1697) illustrated and described. Additional heater holding devices 37 that as part of the lighter 25 operable include those disclosed in commonly assigned U.S. Patent Application Serial No.- filed on January 6, 1995 (representative no. PM 1729B CIP II); in the jointly transmitted co-pending US serial no. 08 / 291,690, filed August 16, 1994 (representative mark No. PM 1719); and in the later part of this description, which is related to the 13 to 23 is given. Preferably the heaters 37 individually by the energy source 35a under the control of the control circuit 41 energized to the cigarette 23 preferably eight times at spaced locations around the periphery of the cigarette 23 to heat. The heating gives eight puffs of the cigarette 23 , as is usually achieved by smoking a more conventional cigarette. It may be preferred to fire more than one heater at a time for one or more of the trains.

Another preferred heater arrangement is in copending U.S. patent application serial no. 08 / 224,848, filed April 7, 1994 (PM-1729B). It's going back on 2 Referred. The circuit arrangement is preferred 41 operated by a train th sensor 45 activated, which is sensitive to either changes in pressure or changes in air flow velocity that occur when a train is started on the cigarette 23 occur by a smoker. The pull operated sensor 45 is preferably in the front part of the housing 33 of the lighter 25 arranged and stands with a to the cigarette 23 adjacent space inside the heater holding device 39 through a passageway communicating through a spacer at the base of the heater holder 39 and, if desired, extends a tension sensor tube (not shown). A pull operated sensor 45 that is for use in the smoke system 21 is suitable is disclosed in commonly assigned U.S. Patent No. 5,060,671 (PM 1337). The train sensor 45 preferably includes a Model 163PCO1D35 silicon sensor manufactured by the MikroSwitch Division of Honeywell Inc., Freeport, Illinois. It has also been successfully demonstrated that current sensing devices such as B. those using hot wire anemometry principles to activate an appropriate one of the heating elements 37 are useful when a change in air flow is detected. Once through the sensor 45 is activated, controls the control circuitry 41 an electrical current to an appropriate one of the heating elements 37 ,

A scoreboard 51 is in one place along the outside of the lighter 25 provided, preferably on the front housing part 33 to display the number of puffs that occurred in one smoke of a cigarette 23 are left. The scoreboard 51 preferably comprises a seven-segment liquid crystal display. In the preferred embodiment, the indicator shows 51 the number "8" when a cigarette detector 53 the presence of a cigarette in the heater holder 39 detected. The detector 53 preferably includes a light sensor at the base of the heater holder 39 that detects when a beam of light from an inserted cigarette 23 is reflected away. The cigarette detector then delivers 53 a signal to the circuit arrangement 41 which in turn sends a signal to the indicator 51 supplies. The display of the number "8" on the indicator 51 reflects the eight puffs on each cigarette 23 are provided, are available, ie none of the heating elements 37 has been activated to the cigarette 23 to heat. After the cigarette 23 the indicator shows the number "0". If the cigarette 23 from the lighter 25 is removed, the cigarette detector detects 53 no longer a presence of a cigarette 23 , and the scoreboard 51 is switched off. The cigarette detector 53 is modulated in such a way that it does not emit a light beam constantly, which would otherwise result in an unnecessary drain at the energy source 35a would generate. A preferred cigarette detector 53 that is for use with the smoke system 21 a light sensor of the type OPR5005, which is manufactured by OPTEX Technology, Inc., 1215 West Crosby Road, Carollton, Texas 75006, USA, is suitable.

In the alternatives to displaying the Remains of the train count the detector display may instead be arranged to indicate whether the system is active or inactive ("on" or "off").

As one of several possible alternatives to using the above cigarette detector 53 a mechanical switch (not shown) can be provided to detect the presence or absence of a cigarette 23 to detect, and there may be a reset button (not shown) for resetting the circuitry 41 be provided when a new cigarette in the lighter 25 is introduced, e.g. B. to cause the indicator 51 indicates the number "8" etc. Energy sources, circuitry, pull actuated sensors and indicators used in the smoke system 21 of the present invention are disclosed in commonly assigned U.S. Patent No. 5,060,671 (PM 1337) and commonly assigned U.S. parent application serial no. 07 / 943.504 (PM 1550).

Now with reference to the 4A and 4b includes the cigarette 23 A string of tobacco as constructed in accordance with the preferred embodiment of the present invention 60 and a filter mouthpiece 62 made with topping paper 64 are interconnected.

The partially filled fountain pen cigarette 23 preferably has a substantially constant diameter along its length and which, like more conventional cigarettes, is preferably between about 7.5 mm and 8.5 mm in diameter, so that the smoking system 21 gives a smoker a familiar "mouthfeel". In the preferred embodiment, the cigarette is 23 62 mm in total length, eliminating the use of conventional packaging machines when packing the cigarettes 23 is facilitated. The combined length of the mouthpiece filter 104 and the free flow filter 102 is preferably 30 mm. The topping paper preferably extends about 6 mm over the tobacco rod 60 , The total length of the tobacco rod 62 is preferably 32 mm. Other ratios, lengths and diameters can be selected for the preferred embodiment instead of those given above.

The tobacco rod 60 the cigarette 23 preferably comprises a tobacco track 66 that has been folded into a tubular (cylindrical) shape.

A wrapping 71 envelops the tobacco lane intimately 66 and is held together along a longitudinal seam, as is common in a construction of more conventional cigarettes. The wrapping 71 stops the tobacco track 66 in a wrapped condition around a free flow filter 74 and a tobacco insert 80 ,

Preferably the cigarette wrapping paper is 71 intimately around the tobacco track 66 wrapped to give an external look and feel to a more conventional cigarette. It has been found that better tasting smoke is obtained when the wrapping paper 71 a standard type of cigarette pack pier is preferably a flat paper of about 20 to 50 CORESTA (defined as the amount of air, measured in cubic centimeters, that passes through a square centimeter of material, e.g., a sheet of paper, in one minute with a pressure drop of 1.0 kilopascal ) and more preferably from about 30 to 45 CORESTA, a basis weight from about 23 to 35 grams per square meter (g / m ² ), and more preferably from about 23 to 30 g / m ² , and a filler load (preferably calcium carbonate) from about 23 to about 25% by weight, and more preferably 28 to 33% by weight.

The wrapping paper 71 preferably contains little or no citrate or other combustion modifiers, with preferred levels of citrate ranging from 0 to about 2.6% by weight of the wrapping paper 71 and more preferably extend less than 1%.

The Tobacco Track 66 itself preferably comprises a carrier web 68 and a layer of tobacco flavor material 70 that run along the inner surface of the carrier web 68 is arranged. At the mouthpiece end 72 of the tobacco rod 60 are the tobacco lane 66 along with the wrapper 71 around the tubular free flow filter rod 74 wound. The free flow filler 74 provides structural definition and support at the mouthpiece end 72 of the tobacco rod 60 and allows aerosol from inside the tobacco rod 60 is drawn off with a minimal pressure drop. The free flow filter 74 also acts as a flow restriction at the mouthpiece end 72 of the tobacco rod 60 What it is said to help prevent aerosol formation during a puff of cigarette 23 to promote. The free flow filter is preferably at least 7 millimeters long to facilitate machine handling and is preferably annular, although other shapes and types of low efficiency filters are suitable, including cylindrical filter rods.

At the free end 78 of the tobacco rod 60 are the tobacco lane 66 along with the wrapper 71 around a cylindrical tobacco insert 80 wound. The tobacco insert is preferred 80 separate from the tobacco lane 66 constructed and comprised a relatively short column of cut filler tobacco wrapped in an insert wrap 84 has been enveloped and retained by them.

The tobacco insert is preferred 80 constructed on a conventional cigarette rod making machine wherein cut filler (preferably mixed) is air formed on a treadmill into a continuous strand of tobacco and with a continuous ribbon of insert wrapper 84 is encased, which is then glued along its longitudinal seam and heat-sealed. However, according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the insert wrap is 84 preferably constructed from a cellulosic web of little or no filler, size or combustion additives (each at levels below 0.5% by weight) and preferably little or less size. The tobacco insert wrapper preferably has 84 a low basis weight of less than 15 grams per square meter and more preferably about 13 grams per square meter. The tobacco insert wrapper 84 preferably has a high permeability in the range of about 20,000 to 35,000 CORESTA, and more preferably in the range of about 25,000 to 35,000 CORESTA, and is preferably constructed from softwood pulp, abaca-type cellulose, or other long-fiber pulp. Such papers are available from the paper factory Schneller and Hoescht GMBH, Postfach 1155, D-76584, Gernsback, GERMANY; another paper that is for use as the insert wrapper 84 suitable is the paper TW 2000 from DeMauduit of Euimperle, FRANCE, with the addition of carboxymethyl cellulose at a level of 2.5% by weight.

The tobacco rod making machine is operated to provide a tobacco rod density of about 0.17 to 0.30 grams per cubic centimeter (g / cc), but more preferably in the range of at least 0.20 to 0.30 g / cc, and most preferably between about 0.24 to 0.28 g / cc. The increased densities are used to avoid loose ends at the free end 78 of the tobacco rod 60 prefers. However, it is understood that the lower strand densities allow the tobacco column 82 contributes a larger proportion of aerosol and aroma to the smoke. Accordingly, there must be a balance between aerosol delivery (which results in a low strand density in the tobacco column 82 favored) and avoiding loose ends (which favors the increased areas of strand densities).

The tobacco column 84 preferably comprises sliced filler of a blend of industrial tobacco, including blends comprising Bright, Burley and Orient tobacco, along with optionally reconstituted tobacco and other blend components, including conventional cigarette flavors. However, in the preferred embodiment, the cut filler comprises the tobacco column 84 a blend of Bright, Burly and Orient tobacco at a ratio of approximately 45:30:25 for the U.S. market, without the inclusion of reconstituted tobacco or any after-cut flavor. Optionally, an expanded tobacco component can be included in the mixture to adjust the strand density and flavors can be added.

The continuous tobacco rod, which is formed as described above, is according to a predetermined insert length for the tobacco insert 80 cut. This length is preferably at least 7 mm in order to facilitate machine handling. However, the length can vary from about 7 mm to 25 mm or more, depending on preferences in cigarette construction, as described in the description that follows, with particular reference to that 4A and 4b can be seen.

Generally speaking, the length is 86 of the tobacco insert 80 preferably in relation to the total length 88 of the tobacco rod 60 set so that a cavity 90 along the tobacco rod 60 between the free flow filter 74 and the use of tobacco 80 is limited. The cavity 90 corresponds to an unfilled part of the tobacco rod 60 and is in direct fluid communication with the mouthpiece 62 through the free flow filter 74 of the tobacco rod 60 ,

By paying particular attention to 4A Refers to, the length 86 of the tobacco insert 80 and its relative position along the tobacco rod 60 also in relation to features of the heating elements 37 selected. If a cigarette is right against the stop 182 the heater holder 39 positioned, touches a part 92 from each heating element 37 the tobacco rod 60 along an area of the tobacco rod 60 , This area of touch is called a heater footprint 94 designated. The heater footprint 94 (like with a double arrow in 4A is not part of the cigarette structure itself, but is instead a representation of that area of the tobacco rod 60 where you would expect the heating element 37 operable heating temperatures during a cigarette smoking 23 reached. Because the heating elements 37 at a fixed distance 96 from the attack 182 the heater holder 39 the heater footprint is located 94 consistent along the tobacco rod 60 at the same predetermined distance 96 from the free end 78 of the tobacco rod 60 for every cigarette 23 that are fully in the lighter 25 is introduced.

Preferably the length of the tobacco insert 80 , the length of the heater footprint 94 and the distance between the heater footprint 94 and the attack 182 selected so that the heater footprint 94 about the use of tobacco 80 extends beyond and by a distance 98 over part of the cavity 90 lies. The distance 98 by which the heater footprint 94 the cavity 90 overlaid (the unfilled part of the tobacco rod 60 ) is also called the "heater-cavity overlap" 98 designated. The distance that the rest of the heater footprint 94 over the tobacco insert 80 is called the "heater-filler overlap" 99 designated.

The mouthpiece 62 preferably comprises a free flow filler 102 , which is adjacent to the tobacco rod 60 is arranged, and a mouthpiece filter rod 104 at the distal end of the mouthpiece 62 from the tobacco rod 60 , The free flow filter is preferably 102 tubular and allows air to pass through with a very small pressure drop. However, other low efficiency filters of a standard configuration could be used instead. The inside diameter for the free flow filter 96 is preferably at or between 2 to 6 millimeters and preferably larger than that of the free flow filter 74 of the tobacco rod 6C The mouthpiece filter rod 104 closes the free end of the mouthpiece 62 occasionally for appearance purposes and, if desired, to accomplish some filtration, although it is preferred that the mouthpiece filter rod 104 a low efficiency filter of about 15 to 25 percent efficiency.

The free flow filter 102 and the mouthpiece filter rod 104 are preferably as a combined insert 110 with an insert wrap 112 united with each other. The insert wrapping 112 is preferably a porous, low weight insert wrap as is conventionally available to those skilled in the art of cigarette manufacture. The combined use 110 is on the tobacco rod 60 through the covering paper 64 of specifications that are standard and traditionally used throughout the cigarette industry. The covering paper 64 can be either cork, white, or any other color, as decorative preferences might suggest.

Preferably has a cigarette 23 , which is constructed according to the preferred embodiment, has a total length of about 62 mm, of which 30 mm is the combined insert 110 of the mouthpiece 62 includes. Accordingly, the tobacco rod 60 32 mm long. The free flow filter is preferably 74 of the tobacco rod 60 at least 7 mm long, and the cavity 91 between the free flow filter 74 and the tobacco rod 80 is preferably at least 7 mm long. In the preferred embodiment, the heater footprint is 94 about 12 mm long and arranged to have a 3 mm heater cavity overlap 98 returns, with 9 mm of the heater footprint 94 left over, the tobacco use 80 overlap.

It is understood that the length of the cavity 91 and the length of the tobacco insert 80 can be customized to facilitate manufacturing, and more importantly, to the smoking characteristics of the cigarette 23 adapt, including adjustments in their taste, trait and dispensing. The length of the cavity 91 and the amount of heater-filler overlap (and heater-cavity overlap) can also be manipulated to adjust the immediacy of a response to promote consistency in delivery (on a train-to-train basis, as well as between cigarettes) and to control condensation of aerosol in or around the heaters.

In the preferred embodiment, the cavity extends 91 (the filler-free part of the tobacco rod 60 ) about 7 mm to allow adequate clearance between the heater footprint 94 and the free flow filter 74 to ensure. In this way, a margin is provided so that the heater footprint 94 the free flow filter 74 not heated during smoking. Other lengths are suitable, e.g. B. if the manufacturing tolerances allow, the cavity 91 be configured as short as about 4 mm or less, or at the other extreme, extended well beyond 7 mm by one long straight filler-free part along the tobacco rod 60 to create. The preferred range of lengths for the filler-free part (the cavity 91 ) is from about 4 mm to 18 mm, and more preferably 5 to 12 mm.

The carrier web 68 physically separates the heating elements 37 of the tobacco flavor material transferred through the heating elements 37 generated heat to the aroma material 70 and maintains physical cohesion of the tobacco rod during handling, introduction to the lighter 25 and removing the cigarette after smoking.

In the description that follows, certain percentage levels and / or relative weights are set out for the various components that make up the tobacco track 66 include. Unless otherwise stated or otherwise readily apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that the opposite is true, percentages by weight are on a dry weight basis, i.e. percentage levels and / or relative weights given are adjusted for (not including) moisture content.

The process of making tobacco sheeting 66 is preferably without the addition of carbon as described in the sections that follow. At the end of the preferred manufacturing process, the carrier web faces 68 even a preferred total basis weight of about 35 to 45 g / m ² , more preferably about 40 g / m ² . At 40 g / m ² the carrier web comprises 68 preferably about 28 g / m ² tobacco pulp and about 12 g / m ² cellulose pulp, such as. B. from wood pulp or flax. The cellulosic pulp serves as a cellulosic fastener in the composition of the backing sheet 68 , It is preferred to minimize the amount of cellulose pulp in the backing for subjective reasons (to avoid creating a paper-like note on the taste of the cigarette). In general, the ratio of tobacco pulp to cellulose pulp should be in the carrier web 68 on a dry weight basis range from about 2: 1 to 4: 1. The preferred cellulosic material is an unbleached kraft soft cellulose, although most wood and flax pulps are useful.

An alternative means of strengthening the carrier web 68 is cellulose pulp from the tobacco stem produced.

Although not preferred, alginate can be along one side of the carrier web 68 be coated at a level of about 1 g / m ² . When alginate is applied, it is preferred that it be on one side of the carrier web 68 opposite to the side that is the tobacco flavor material 70 records, is applied.

The tobacco material 70 is preferably at dry weight levels of at least twice, and more preferably about three to four times that of the carrier web 68 onto the carrier web 68 applied. In the preferred embodiment, the tobacco material has a weight per unit area of approximately 130 g / m ² , so that preferably the total weight of the tobacco sheet 66 is about 170 g / m ² . On a dry weight basis, the tobacco material comprises 70 a portion of ground tobacco and extracted solids in a ratio in the range of about 3.5 to 1 (3.5: 1) to five to one (5: 1) by weight, although this ratio is in the range of about 3: Can be varied from 1 to 9: 1. In the preferred embodiment, the ratio is about 4.1.

Glycerin becomes a tobacco material 70 as a humectant and as an aerosol precursor at levels of about 10-14%, most preferably about 12%, based on the dry weight of the tobacco material 70 , but this add-on level can be estimated from about 5% to as high as 20% or more based on the dry weight of the tobacco material 70 , can be varied. If glycerin is reduced to only about 5 to 7% dry weight of the composition, the tobacco lane can 66 be somewhat stiffer and more resistant to collapse when rolled into a tubular shape.

Pectin also becomes a tobacco material 70 added at dry weight percent levels ranging from about 0.5 to 2%, preferably about 1.4%. Pectin is added as a coating agent. In his absence, the tobacco material 70 tend to be in the backing material 68 overflowing (penetrating it) during the coating process, resulting in a grainy surface texture on the coated side of the tobacco sheet 66 makes. Too much pectin inhibits penetration and weakens the bond between the tobacco material 70 and the carrier web 68 , At about 1%, the pectin promotes adequate penetration and bonding between the layers so that the carrier web 68 can withstand the roughness of an automatic cigarette production.

Most preferably, the tobacco material comprises 70 on the carrier web 68 about 16-20 dry weight% extracted tobacco solids, 66-71 dry weight% ground tobacco particles, 8-14% glycerin and about 1.4% pectin. For US markets, the tobacco includes ground in the tobacco material 70 is incorporated, preferably a mixture of Bright, Burley and Orient tobaccos, with almost half of the mixture being Bright tobacco, about 1/3 Burley and the rest being Orient. The composition and relative amounts of the blend components can advantageously be adjusted to suit consumer preferences in the United States or other markets.

With respect to the 5A and 5B includes the preferred method of making a tobacco sheeting inventory 66 in a form used for the automatic manufacture of cigarettes 23 is suitable for a first series of steps 120 (shown in FIG 5A ) for the conversion of the tobacco raw material, preferably a tobacco strip, into a continuous sheet of the tobacco sheet 66s and a second series of steps 122 (shown in 5B ) a conversion of the continuous sheet of tobacco sheet 66s in one or more wound bobbins 66b of tobacco sheeting that is in use for the automatic manufacture of cigarettes 23 are.

With reference specifically to 5A the process begins 120 for converting tobacco raw material into a continuous sheet of tobacco sheet 66s with that tobacco raw material an extraction step 124 is subjected (preferably with water) to separate tobacco pulp from soluble tobacco from the original raw material. The tobacco raw material preferably comprises a tobacco strip, but other forms of tobacco and / or tobacco leaves are suitable for use in this process. Preferably, the tobacco strip comprises a mixture of Bright and Burley tobacco and can optionally include Orient or other varieties.

The tobacco pulp from the extraction process 124 collected is itself a paper-making type process 126 subjected to a continuous arc 68s to form the carrier web.

In the process 126 the tobacco pulp from the extraction step 124 dispersed in water with the addition of a predetermined amount of cellulose pulp, which acts as a strengthening agent in the composition of the carrier web 68 serves. The cellulose pulp preferably comprises pulp-converted cellulose of wood, flax and / or tobacco stalks. Once combined, the mixed tobacco and cellulosic pulp dispersion is refined to form a web slurry 128 to form the for casting in the casting step 130 is suitable, the railway mud 128 is directed to a casting box arrangement of a web forming machine and is poured onto a wire or onto an endless steel belt, preferably the former.

It is more convenient to use the dispersed mixture of tobacco pulp and the strengthening agent after refining the two components are mixed together. You can instead refined separately and then combined.

After the casting step 130 becomes the resulting trajectory 132 then on a drying step 134 directed by one or more dryers, which step preferably comprises passing the web over a Yankee cylinder and one or more cylinder dryers, although a lot of alternative arrangements and devices are known in the relevant art and for performing the drying step 134 Are available. At the end of the web drying step 134 becomes a monitoring step 136 performed to measure the moisture content and weight of the dried web. The exit 138 regarding the measurement of moisture content is used to complete the drying process 134 to adapt to the desired final moisture level in the arch of the carrier web 68s for the purpose of the subsequent coating process 144 to achieve and maintain. The arch of girder web 68s is preferably at or around 15% moisture based on the weight of the coating process 144 ,

Referring back to the monitoring step 136 becomes the exit 140 regarding the weight of the sheet of carrier web 68s used the process of the casting step 130 adjust to the preferred basis weight in the carrier web 68 to achieve as previously described. Such adjustments include changes in the rate at which the railway mud 128 in the casting box of the web forming machine in the casting step 130 is introduced.

The path formation step 126 can optionally continue a coating step 142 include one side of the carrier web 68s with alginate at levels previously described along an opposite side of the carrier web 68s that are the tobacco flavor material 70 picks up, coated. However, it is the preferred practice to proceed without the application of alginate.

At the end of the path formation process 126 the carrier web lies in the form of a continuous arch 68s before, to learn about the coating process 144 is useful. In the alternative, it can be collected offline for subsequent coating processes. However, it is preferred to immediately in the coating process 144 after the formation of the arch of carrier web 68s progress.

The carrier web preferably occurs 68s in the coating process 144 with a moisture content of about 12 to 17%, more preferably 14.5 to 15.5 moisture.

With reference back to the extraction step 124 the soluble tobacco substances leave the extraction step 124 in the form of a dilute solution comprising about 5 to 10 percent dissolved tobacco ingredients (solubles), and more preferably 7 to 8 percent dissolved tobacco ingredients. Preferably, the diluted solution is not subjected to evaporation treatment to minimize the application of heat to the solution. The application of heat can have an effect on the aroma that is contributed by the soluble tobacco substances when they are part of the cigarette 23 to be smoked.

These soluble substances (also known as "extracted liquid") from the extraction step 124 are in a mixing step 146 with additional finely ground tobacco, glycerin and pectin mixed with water, all in relative amounts, which will eventually give the final proportional proportions, as previously described, for the tobacco material's dry state 70 turn off. In connection with the mixing step 146 water is added (or retained) in amounts sufficient to at the end of the mixing step 124 to give a dispersion of about 20 to 35 percent solids, more preferably about 24 to 26 percent solids. The ground tobacco particles of the mixture are preferably in the range of 60 to 400 mesh, the term "mesh" referring to a 95% rate of passage of tobacco particles through a mesh having a given number of openings per square inch. More preferably, the additional ground tobacco particles range from about 100 to 200 mesh, and most preferably about 120 mesh.

If the mesh size of the ground tobacco particles is over 120 mesh, more specifically at or around 180 to 220 mesh, the solids content of the slurried tobacco material can be increased at the end of the mixing step 146 be increased, e.g. B. at levels of about 28 to 31%.

At the end of the mixing step 146 the resulting slurried tobacco material is immediately incorporated into the coating process 144 controlled, although the coating process can optionally be carried out on a offline basis at a certain subsequent time. At the coating process 144 the slurried tobacco material should have a solids content of about 22 to 27% by weight, more preferably at or around 24 to 25%.

At the coating step 144 the slurried tobacco material has a target weight percent of soluble tobacco material of 4 to 8 percent, more preferably 5.5 to 6.5 weight percent of soluble tobacco materials. Preferably the slurried tobacco material enters the coating process 144 at a temperature in the range of about 70 to 130 ° F, more preferably at or around 90 ° F plus or minus 5 ° F.

The coating step 128 is preferably carried out with a standard reversing roll coater, which is arranged after a smoothing cylinder beyond the endless belt or Fourdrinier wire. The coating step can be carried out with other suitable coating devices known to and available to those skilled in web forming operations. The tobacco material 70 can instead on the carrier web 68 be cast or extruded. Alternatively, the order step 128 offline separate from the production of the sheet from the carrier web 68s be performed. During or after the coating step 128 flavors that are conventional in the cigarette industry are added if desired.

At the end of the coating process 144 is a continuous sheet of tobacco sheeting 66s generated.

Now referring to 5B the process now goes through the steps 122 of converting the tobacco sheet bow 66s in a wound bobbin 66b from tobacco lane used for the automatic production of cigarettes 23 suitable is. Preferably the conversion steps 122 online with the production of the continuous sheet of tobacco sheet 66s carried out. During the implementation of the conversion steps 122 the operator should avoid conditions in the tobacco lane arch 66s Generate breaks, cracks or other imperfections so that a continuous winding of tobacco web into the bobbin 66b with little or no splices. In addition, the bow of tobacco sheeting 66s condition so that at the end of the conversion steps 122 the tobacco track does not bind to itself and to the bobbin 66b can be quickly wound up and unwound without breaking.

The conversion steps 122 start with a drying step 146 , where preferably the bow of tobacco 66s is continuously fed through a gas-fired hot air impact dryer, such as. B. the type manufactured by Airtech Systems Corp. of Stroughton, Maine, or with a steam heated hot air dryer. Other dryers known in the web web art can be used instead. The drying step 146 should be done with minimal application of heat, but in amounts sufficient to keep the tobacco track 68s from its initial state (about 15% moisture content in the carrier web and about a 75% moisture level in the layer itself) to about 8.5 to 12% total moisture content at the end of the drying step 146 to dry. The dried tobacco sheet arch is more preferred 66d in the range of about 10 to 11% moisture content. This final moisture content is preferred for several reasons: to slitter operations at a later stage in the conversion process 122 to facilitate; to set a level of moisture that approximates where the material would equilibrate if stored and / or sent to a manufacturing facility; and to create a level of moisture, the stickiness and bonding of the backing sheet material to itself in the bobbin 66b prevented.

After the drying step 126 becomes the dried tobacco sheet bow 66d cooled to an ambient temperature, preferably to that of its likely location of storage and / or associated manufacturing facility, typically in the range of 65 to 80 ° F. This cooling step 148 not only makes it easier to balance the tobacco lane 66 on operating environments, but also avoids the risk of heat in a bobbin 66b is held back, which could otherwise initiate a self-heating process. In the absence of control, self-heating could lead to extreme temperatures and a degradation of the subjective character of the tobacco lane 66 to lead. Preferably, the cooling step is carried out with a freeze-cooled air impingement cooler, which is manufactured by Airtech Systems Corp. of Stroughton, Maine, although a lot of alternative cooling systems are known to those of ordinary skill in the art of web formation.

After the web drying and cooling steps 146 and 148 becomes the dried and cooled tobacco sheet arch 66dc passed through a smoothing apparatus, such as. B. those offered by Thermo Electron Web Systems, Inc. of Auburn, Maine, or any other suitable web smoothing device as is readily known and available to those skilled in the relevant web forming art. At the end of the smoothing step 150 is the tobacco track 66 essentially free of thermally induced twist along its edges and is in the condition for subsequent winding and slitting steps 152 and 154 , However, before performing these steps, it is preferable to have the temperature, moisture level, and total weight of the tobacco sheet bow 66s to monitor when doing the smoothing step 150 leaves to provide feedback and process control to ensure that the tobacco lane arch 66s in the condition for winding and slitting and it to the desired setpoints of temperature and humidity, total weight for the bobbins 66b leads.

In particular, when monitoring the tobacco sheet bow 66 the reading of its total weight used to complete the coating process 144 adapt, such as B. in the feed rate of slurried tobacco material in the reverse roll coater or the gap at the roll gap of the coater. Moisture level readings at the monitoring step 151 are used to control drying processes to achieve the desired levels of moisture in the sheet as previously described. Likewise, the cooling step 148 in response to readings of the temperature of the tobacco sheet bow 66 at the monitoring step 151 controlled.

Then the tobacco sheet bow 66 in a winding step 152 wound up, which is carried out with web winding machines which are readily known and available to a person skilled in the web processing art. Then the rolled tobacco sheet bow 68s into individual bobbins 66b slotted, the cutting width for each bobbin or the desired size of the cigarette 23 is.

At the end of the conversion steps 122 is the bobbin 66b in a state for automatic manufacturing processes of the cigarette 23 , such as B. in the union operations related to 6 the co-pending co-pending US serial no. 07 / 943,504, filed September 11, 1992.

The glycerin in the tobacco material 70 serves as an aerosol precursor and facilitates the formation of a visible aerosol during cigarette smoking 23 , In addition, when the glycerin is released into the atmosphere, it condenses and provides an appearance that is typically expected for tobacco smoke. Other humectants suitable for use in the tobacco industry can be used in its place.

Optionally, after the casting step 123 Alginate along one side of the web 68 before, during or after the coating step 126 be coated. The alginate layer provides additional strength and film formation along one side of the carrier web 68 , However, the carrier web has 68 sufficient strength without alginate and it is preferred practice to use the backing sheet 68 without constructing it.

The present invention can be used with other types of carrier webs 68 (Carriers) are practiced, including the carbon fiber nonwovens or the metal or screen mats described in copending U.S. Patent Applications Serial-No. 07 / 943.504 (PM 1550); Ser. 07 / 943,747 (PM 1655); and commonly assigned U.S. Patent No. 5,388,594 (PM 1697); and our transfer of European patent application EP-A-0,615,411.

With regard to carbon fiber nonwovens as disclosed in EP-A-0,615,411 and commonly assigned U.S. Patent No. 5,388,594 (PM 1697), the continuation of which is also pending as serial no. 08 / 380,718, filed on September 30, 1995 (PM 1697 Cont), a preferred composition of such nonwovens comprises a carrier web 68 comprising tobacco pulp in the range of 20-30 g / m ² , more preferably about 24 to 28 g / m ² , most preferably 26 g / m2; Carbon fiber in the range 2-9 g / m ² , more preferably 2 to 4 g / m ^2, and most preferably about 3 g / m ² ; and pectin in the range of about 5 to 1.5 g / m ^2, and most preferably about 1 g / m ^{2 of} pectin. These components are preferably balanced around a carrier web 68 with a total basis weight of about 30 g / m ² . It is also preferred to use 1/4 inch (0.64 cm) bundle length carbon fiber to facilitate its dispersion during the sludge portion of the process. Initiation of the dispersion of the carbon fiber raw material is facilitated when procedures such as e.g. B. those in U.S. Patent Nos. 4,007,083 and 4,234,379.

In the alternative embodiment of the tobacco carrier web 66 (ie the carbon fiber fleece) the total final dry sheet weight is preferably about 160 g / m ² , of which 30 g / m ^{2 is} the backing sheet 68 comprises and 130 g / m ^{2 of} tobacco material 70 includes. In contrast, the more preferred embodiment of the tobacco carrier sheet 56 , which does not comprise carbon fiber, has a dry sheet weight of approximately 170 g / m ² , of which 40 g / m ^{2 is} the carrier web 68 comprises and 130 g / m ^{2 of} tobacco material 70 includes. What type of carrier web 68 (or carrier) is always used, the carrier material 70 is preferably on the inner surface of the carrier web 68 arranged and releases an aerosol with tobacco aroma (answer) when heated. Such materials can also include continuous sheets, foams, gels, dried sludges or dried spray-deposited sludges of tobacco material.

Regarding 3 and in conjunction with the teachings of commonly assigned U.S. Patent No. 5,388,594 (PM 1697) when a cigarette 23 the preferred embodiment in the container 27 is introduced, it is placed in the heating device 39 passed until the free end 78 the cigarette 23 against an attack 182 abuts that at the base of the heater holder 39 is firmly arranged. As soon as the cigarette is in place, smoking can begin, whereupon each smoking operation by a smoker through the pull sensor 45 is detected in cooperation with the control circuit 41 causes an electrical current to a preselected one of the heaters 37 is delivered. Energy is delivered through an electrical circuit that includes: cables 183 at one end of each heater 37 , a common ring 184 at the opposite end of each heater 37 and a common line 186 that differ from the common ring 184 back near the lines 183 extends. If any heater 37 is activated, thermal energy is generated by the envelope 71 and the tobacco alley 68 transferred in sufficient amount to cause the tobacco flavor material 70 the tobacco lane 66 a tobacco aerosol within the confines of the tobacco rod 60 released, in response to the smoker's pulling action at the mouthpiece end of the cigarette 23 from the cigarette 23 is sucked.

A smoker's train on a cigarette typically takes about 1.5 to 2.0 seconds during FTC cigarette screening procedures assume a 2.0 second train duration.

Where the heater footprint 94 the cavity 91 overlaps, aerosol is directly from the heated tobacco flavor material 70 in the cavity 91 released what it was in and through the mouthpiece 62 is drawn off with very little pressure drop. On the other hand, where the heater footprint 94 the tobacco use 80 (the heater / filler overlap 99) overlaps, proximal portions of the tobacco insert 80 along with proximal parts of the tobacco track 66 heated. Accordingly, the mixed tobacco controls the tobacco use 80 their own fraction of the total aerosol to contribute their taste and other subjective attributes. The aerosol from the tobacco insert 80 At or around the heater / filler overlap 99 is released, it experiences some filtration and pressure drop as it goes through the tobacco insert 80 and into the cavity 91 is sucked.

The aerosol from heating the tobacco insert 80 is of a character and taste that is created by blending tobacco and by adapting to how much the heater footprint 94 the tobacco use 80 overlaid, can be changed. The component of aerosol that is close to the cavity 91 is released immediately from the cigarette because there is less thermal inertia at the cavity 91 there and because the thermally evaporated tobacco substance on the cavity 91 the drop in temperature of the tobacco use 80 is not exposed and instead immediately the mouthpiece 62 through the free flow filter 74 is transmitted. However, it has a different character from that of tobacco use 80 is released because it is predominantly from the tobacco flavor material 70 on the carrier web 68 is released. As explained in more detail below, it has been found that for smoker satisfaction, the aerosol that comes from a cigarette 23 is released, preferably comprises both components of aerosol in order to ensure immediate delivery to the smoker and to include the aroma notes which are attributable to the mixed cut tobacco filler. As can be seen in the teachings that follow, the presence of the cavity ensures 91 (and its immediacy of an initial delivery) a consistent puff-to-puff smoking of the cigarette 23 and promotes consistency between cigarettes. This relationship is corroborated in the comparative train-train-train attributes of a partially filled cigarette 23 constructed in accordance with the preferred embodiment (with a cut filler insert 80 and a cavity 91 ) compared to cigarettes 23 ' a first alternative construction ( 6a ) without cut filler in its rolled tobacco lane and a second alternative construction ( 7A ) with a rolled tobacco sheet that is completely filled with cut filler. It is understood that in the reproductions of these alternative constructions the tobacco lane 66 ' and 66 " a carrier web 68 and a layer of tobacco material 70 as in the preferred embodiment. The tobacco strands 60 ' these alternative constructions also include an enclosure 71 ,

A coil type heating element with a 15 joule energy setting was used to generate the comparative data as in FIGS 6B and 7B illustrated with the cigarettes contained in the 6A respectively. 7A are shown.

In relation to 6A a tobacco rod comprises a cigarette adapted for smoking in an electric smoking system of the first alternative construction 60 ' and a mouthpiece 62 ' Each of which includes components identified by crossed reference numerals that correspond to components of the preferred embodiment shown in 4A is shown. However, the tobacco rod encloses 60 ' the cigarette 23 ' no cut filler in his tobacco lane 66 ' , and the free end 78 ' of the tobacco rod 60 ' is with a backflow filter 200 ' Mistake. The carrier web 68 ' the tobacco lane 66 ' was the type that includes carbon fiber as previously described. The construction of the cigarette 23 ' is also in commonly assigned U.S. Patent No. 5,388,594 (PM 1697) in detail. For the purpose of the description that follows, this cigarette 23 ' as a filler-free cigarette 23 ' Referred.

By now on 6C Reference has been made to experiments using a smoke machine in cooperation with a smoke system 21 carried out. The exit of the smoke machine was checked by a smoke meter during each train 6y headed that a transparent chamber 6v has where a beam of light 6u from a source 6w through the transparent chamber 6v to a photo detector 6z on the opposite side of the transparent chamber 6v passes. The exit of the photo sensor 6z is processed to determine the intensity of the light beam 6u dissolve when it's on the sensor 6z incident. Any tobacco aerosol released through the chamber 6v passes through, has a light scattering effect on the light beam 6u so that any resulting change in the detected light intensity at the photodetector 6z is inverse for total particles (TPM) in the aerosol. In accordance with FTC cigarette inspection practices, it is preferred that the smoking machine pull a standard two-second pull from the smoking system 21 draws.

In the 6B Graphically displayed information shows the intensity that is registered on the smoke meter in relation to the time when the smoke machine goes through each of a series of puffs on a filler-free cigarette 23 ' progress. The data indicate the following trends: that of a filler-free cigarette 23 ' the first and second moves are inconsistent with the remaining three moves, which later three moves are much more consistent with each other; and that aerosol is delivered for each train well before the two second time period expires. The filler-free cigarette 23 ' is less consistent in a charge on the first few moves, and consistency is only present in the later moves. The data related to the first puff is fairly consistent with the general observation that machine smoking is a filler-free cigarette 23 ' releases less aerosol during the first train unless relief measures are implemented, such as: B. Perforating the tobacco rod 60 ' , or other measures as described in U.S. Patent No. 5,388,594 (PM 1697).

By now on 7A Reference is made to another construction of an electrically operational cigarette 23 " a string of tobacco 60 " and a mouthpiece 62 " with components and an arrangement similar to that of the preferred embodiment shown in 4A is shown, with similar components being provided with double dashes. However, the cigarette includes 23 " of 7A a backflow filter 200 ' at the free end 78 " and a column of cut filler 220 ' that run along the entire length of the tobacco rod 60 " between the backflow filter 200 ' and the free flow filter 74 " of the tobacco rod 60 " extends. The tobacco column 220 ' the cigarette 23 " includes the blend of Burley, Bright and Orient tobacco with a strand density of 0.275 grams per cubic centimeter. The carrier web 68 " the tobacco lane 66 " is the type that includes carbon fiber as previously described. In the discussion that follows, the cigarette 23 " as a full filled cigarette 23 " designated.

By now on 7B Reference was made to the measurements in light intensity from the smoke meter 6y correlated with the progression of time, for each train for a sequence of trains numbered 1 to 7 on a fully filled cigarette 23 " , The data in 7B are representative of two recognizable trends in the performance of a cigarette, according to the fully filled cigarette 23 " is constructed: that the first few puffs deliver a significant aerosol delivery, but still a post-delivery postage decreases to such an extent that the later three puffs deliver significantly less delivery than the first few puffs (unless corrective action is taken); and with the full cigarette 23 " an aerosol delivery is delayed and the initial trains (trains one, two and three) do not reach a maximum delivery unless after a substantial portion of a two second period has elapsed.

During the first few puffs, the full cigarette tilts 23 " to deliver a larger total volume of aerosol than the filler-free cigarette 23 ' , A comparison of the data in the 7B and 6B are shown to underpin this general observation in that the total areas over the first few train lines in 7B for the full filled cigarette 23 " are larger than the total areas over the first few train lines in 6B for the pen-free cigarette 23 ' , The area above each train line in the 7B and 6B shows the total levy during this turn.

However, it is believed that the delay in the delivery of the fully filled cigarette 23 " prompted a smoker to try a sustained, more robust puff in response to the fact that he or she had no immediate flavor response from the cigarette 23 " receives. The pronounced pull in turn can cause the heated parts of the wrapper 71 " and the tobacco alley 66 " more consumed (oxidized) by the additional air drawn thereby, causing a more significant break and perhaps more localized collapse of the tobacco column 220 ' occurs during the first few moves. It is also believed that once pyrolysis is initiated in the full cigarette, it tends to be more self-sustaining due to the presence of a greater mass of combustible tobacco and / or its more compact condition. In any case, because air can be more easily drawn into the tobacco rod through the broken "burnt" locations of the first few puffs, it is believed that these localized broths short the desired airflow paths from subsequent trains. As a result, a charge takes place during the later puffs on the fully filled cigarette 23 " from.

In the 7B Data presented and the explanation given above is consistent with a general observation that fully filled cigarettes 23 ' or a conventional cigarette, when smoked with an electric lighter, tends to drop into a dispenser as a drawing progresses.

With its delayed but more self-sustaining pyrolysis, the full cigarette tends 23 ' to produce a large amount of aerosol in the later stages of the train, and may occasionally continue to produce an amount of aerosol beyond the period in which the smoker actually pulls the cigarette. The latter situation can lead to the production of "after-train" aerosol that is in the housing 33 of the lighter 25 can linger, especially on or around the heater holding device 39 , Some of such "after-train" aerosol condenses problematically on the heating elements 33 or lingers long enough to smoke in the next puff 23 " to be sucked. Any consequence is detrimental to the delivery of a beneficial and consistent taste.

By going back on 6B References make the traction lines of the filler-free cigarette 23 ' It is apparent that the delivery of aerosol becomes maximum (where the train lines descend most) well before the two (2) second duration of a standardized train has passed, and the delivery at the later stages of the train is minimal that the production of "after-train" aerosol is not such a problem with the filler-free cigarette 23 ' is. However, as previously noted, there is the filler-free cigarette 23 ' less total volume of aerosol than the full filled cigarette 23 " , she occasionally suffers from inconsistency in a levy during the first few moves and lacks the subjective attributes and flexibility that would otherwise be enjoyed if mixed (or even unmixed) cut filler were included.

8th is a representation of data from comparative smoking in smoking machines using a smoke meter 6y as described above, for cigarettes constructed in accordance with: the filler-free cigarette 23 '; the full filled cigarette 23 "; and the partially filled fountain pen cigarette 23 which according to teachings of the preferred embodiment (as in 4A shown) of the present invention.

Carbon fiber fleece was used as the backing sheet in all of these cigarettes. Like a discussion of the data from 8th discloses the partially filled fountain pen cigarette 23 the present invention provides a more consistent, full-smoke delivery. It avoids the waste in one charge, which in the later puffs of the fully filled cigarette 23 " occurs and is more consistent in dispensing than the pen-free cigarette 23 ' during the first couple of moves.

The partially filled fountain pen cigarette 23 that has been studied to collect data that is in 8th was half filled with cut filler so that the heater overlap over the cavity in the cigarette construction was relatively large, about 6 mm. The heating elements 37 used to generate the data contained in 8th was a type of snake with 15 joules of energy per heating cycle.

Regarding 8th in particular, the data presented therein is the amount of aerosol (in milligrams) generated during the first two seconds of each puff in a puff progression while smoking any particular type of cigarette. In relation to the data contained in the 6B and 73 would represent a lot of aerosol contained in 8th is indicated analytically an integration of (the area defined above) each train line from 0 to 2 seconds in the 6B and 7B correspond.

The representation of the data in 8th clearly illustrates the waste in a dispenser that comes with a fully filled cigarette 23 " will be experienced if you progress from the first move to subsequent moves. In contrast, the refill-free cigarette experienced no waste in a dispense like the fully filled cigarette 23 " ,

The representation of the data in 8th also clearly illustrates that the partially filled fountain pen cigarette 23 a consistency in a dispensing comparable to that of the filler-free cigarette 23 ' over the whole six trains. This is also the case with a contribution from cut filler to their taste and subjective impression.

By referring to Table II, data was collected indicative of how changes in the amount of heater overlap at the cavity in a cigarette, according to the cigarette 23 is constructed, can affect a levy. The data presented in Table II was generated from machine smoking partially filled cigarettes with a 32mm tobacco rod, a 7mm free flow filter at the mouthpiece end of the tobacco rod and a 30mm long mouthpiece with the heater footprint 12 cm long and at the center of the tobacco rod from every cigarette was centered.

Table II

9 provides a graphical representation of the total particulate matter dispensed (TPM) versus the amount of heater-filler overlap (in millimeters). The data presented therein was generated using standard inspection techniques to determine FTC "tar" levels using Cambridge pads and two second pull intervals on standard smoking machines. The investigated cigarettes were partially filled filler cigarettes with a carbon fiber backing and a total length of 58 mm, only that the data was along the ordinate in 9 appear from a filler-free cigarette with a carbon fiber carrier web and the same overall length. When the heater tobacco overlap was varied, the heater footprint remained a constant length and remained centered on the center of the tobacco rod. Accordingly, any increase in heater-tobacco overlap produced a proportional decrease in heater-cavity overlap. The heater was a coil type with a heater footprint of approximately 10 mm. All of the data taken together indicate that there is a second order relationship under these circumstances between the total particulate matter dispensed and the amount of heater-filler overlap. In the 9 Data presented and the separate set of data set forth in Table II show that the amount of heater-filler overlap can be adjusted to a desired (desired) level of delivery in a partially filled filler cigarette 23 to obtain.

Adjusting the amount of heater-filler overlap is the preferred method of achieving a desired "tar" level in partially filled filler cigarettes for reasons that include the discovery that changes in the heater-filler overlap have a more pronounced and controllable effect have a levy as there are changes in the strand density on the tobacco insert 80 to have. This approach also allows the strand density to be used in tobacco 80 selects for purposes other than a tar level, such as B. to control loose end and / or to produce a desired level of pressure drop and / or free end filtration 78 of the tobacco rod 60 or otherwise to facilitate manufacturing. It also provides the ability to change a tariff among related cigarette products without necessarily changing either the tobacco lane 66 or tobacco use 80 has to change.

It is also advantageous to measure the relative dimensions of the partially filled fountain pen 23 and those of the heater holder 39 of the lighter 21 to configure so that when inserting the cigarette 23 in the lighter 21 every heating element 37 next to the tobacco rod 60 is located so that at least some, if not all, of the heater footprints are only over the filled part of the tobacco rod 60 lie (above the tobacco insert 80 ). In such configurations, the cavity facilitates 91 aerosol formation and helps cool the smoke. It is believed that the free flow filter 74 helps promote aerosol formation by providing a flow restriction to the aerosol components as they move away from the wider cavity 91 be sucked. In this regard, it must be noted that the free flow filter 74 of the tobacco rod 60 margins 73 and 75 at the transitions between it and the cavity 91 on one side and between it and the free flow filter 102 on the other. These edges 73 and 75 are a consequence of that the free flow filter 74 has a smaller inner radius than either of the other two adjacent areas (the cavity 91 and the space in the free flow filter 102 is enclosed). It is believed that these edges 73 and 75 (and possibly other adjacent parts of the free flow filter 74 ) promote turbulence and other flow conditions favorable for the formation of an aerosol from the gas phase and particulate phase components from the heated tobacco parts of the tobacco rod 60 be released.

By now on 10 Referenced is a cigarette 23a according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention with components and arrangements that are the same as in the discussion of the cigarette 23 in the view of 4A spelled out, constructed, but with the addition a backflow filter 200a that at the free end 78a of the tobacco rod 60a is localized. The backflow filter 200a prevents tobacco from the tobacco insert 80a at the free end 78a escapes. The free flow filter 200a can also be colored to indicate that the cigarette 23a is a cigarette for use in an electric smoking device, rather than one to be lit with a match or a conventional cigarette lighter, as with more conventional cigarettes. Although the backflow filter 200a as a separate component of the wrapped tobacco insert 80a is shown, one can for convenience in the manufacture of the cigarette 23a the tobacco use 80a with the backflow filter 200a combine with an insert wrap (not shown). With the backflow filter insert the cigarette can 23a with a tobacco insert 80a be provided with a lower strand density without risking problems, such as e.g. B. loose ends or that tobacco from the tobacco rod 60a fall out. As in EP-A-0,615,411 and in copending and commonly assigned U.S. Patent Application Serial-No. 07 / 943,504, filed September 11, 1992 (PM 1550) and in commonly assigned U.S. Patent No. 5,388,594 (PM 1697) is the backflow filter 200a configured to release aerosol from the free end 78a of the tobacco rod 60a to limit or prevent at the end of a train and to reduce pressure at the free end 78a to generate the amount of air that is in the cigarette 23a from the free end 78a is sucked in relation to the proportional amount of air flowing along the sides of the tobacco rod 60a is allowed to limit favorably.

With regard to construction techniques for the partially filled filler cigarette 23 In the preferred embodiment, heater energies and the amount of heater-filler overlap can be used to create and / or adjust a delivery at a desired "tar" level. Accordingly, a new partially filled fountain pen is in the construction process 23 a selection of a strand density in tobacco use 80 generally available to a desired amount of pressure drop at the free end 78 to achieve and / or to control a backflow in the same way as with a backflow filler 200a the alternative embodiment 23a is achieved.

Now referring to 11 includes another cigarette 23b constructed in accordance with another preferred embodiment of the present invention, a tobacco insert 80b which is a part of low density 310b adjacent to the cavity 91b and a part of high density 320b adjacent to the free end 78b of the cigarette rod 60b includes. The cigarette 23b is configured to have the heater footprint 94B the low density part 310b of tobacco use 80b overlaps so that an improved output is obtained which can be achieved with the lower strand densities. The high density area of the cut filler 320b is arranged so that loose ends are avoided and that air passes axially through the strand 60b in a way that goes to the backflow filter 200a is analog, is limited.

Currently preferred heater embodiments are shown in FIGS 12 - 21 shown. These heaters are suitable for any of the cigarette embodiments described so far; ie the fully filled, partially filled and filler-free cigarettes of the 4a . 4b . 6a . 7a . 10 and 11 and modifications of these cigarettes.

These heaters provide improved mechanical strength for repeated cigarette insertion, adjustments, and removals 23 and significantly improve the production of aerosols from a heated cigarette while maintaining energy requirements. It has been found that the aerosols produced tend to flow radially inward away from a pulsed heater.

In general, there are preferably eight heating sheets 121 to eight moves with sequential firing of the heating blades 121 to deliver, which simulates the train count of a conventional cigarette. Specifically, the heating sheets extend 121 from a hub 110 to form a cylindrical array of heating sheets around an inserted cigarette 23 take. Preferably a gap 129 between adjacent heating sheets 121 limited.

It may be desirable to have the number of puffs, and consequently the number of heating blades 121 to change, which are achieved when a cigarette is inserted into the cylindrical container CR. This desired number is achieved by a desired number of heating sheets 121 is formed. This can be achieved by providing leaves of the same or different dimensions.

The heater holder is in the opening 27 in the lighter 25 arranged. The cigarette 23 optional, backflow filter 200 first, in the opening 27 in the lighter 25 into a substantially cylindrical space of the heater holder 39 introduced, which is limited by: an annular cap 83 with an open end for receiving the cigarette, a cylindrical air duct sleeve 87 , a heater assembly 100 including the heating sheets 121 , an electrically conductive pin or common wire 104A that serves as a common lead for the heating elements of the heater assembly, electrically conductive positive pins or leads 104B , and the spacer. The lower inner surface 81 the spacer stops the cigarette 23 in a desired position in the heater holder 39 so the heating sheets 121 adjacent to the cavity 79 are arranged in the cigarette, and in a preferred embodiment they are as previously with reference to FIG 1 to 11 described arranged.

Essentially the entire heater holder 39 is arranged inside and by a snug fit with the housing 31 the front 33 of the lighter 25 secured in position. A front edge 93 the cap 83 is preferably at the first end 29 of the lighter 25 arranged or extends slightly outside thereof and preferably comprises an internally beveled or rounded part to guide the cigarette 23 into the heater holder 39 and to ease out of it. The pencils 104A and 104B are preferably received in corresponding sockets (not shown), thereby providing a holder for the heater holder 39 in the lighter 25 is supplied, and conductors or printed circuit boards lead from the socket to the various electrical elements. Other pins can provide additional support to secure the pin assembly. The pencils 104A and 104B can comprise any suitable material and preferably comprise tinned phosphor bronze. The thoroughfare 47 in the spacer and the base 50 stands with the pull actuated sensor 45 in connection, and the light sensor 53 detects the presence or absence of a cigarette 23 in the lighter 25 ,

As in the 12 and 13 shown is the heater assembly 100 preferably a monolithic structure, the eight heating blades 121 which extends from a central hub 1110 in a symmetrical arrangement, or as below with reference to 19 discussed, extend in a non-symmetrical arrangement. As best in 13 As shown, the heater assembly defines a generally circular insertion opening 360 with a constriction 365 , which directs the inserted cigarette towards the coaxially delimited cylindrical container CR, which has a diameter which is smaller than the insertion opening 360 , The insertion opening 360 is through the respective end parts 118B the connecting sections 118 of the heating sheets 121 limited, and the necking section 365 is through the part of sections 118 between a connecting edge 118A and end 118B limited. The introductory 360 preferably has a diameter that is larger than the inserted cigarette 23 to guide the cigarette towards the container CR, and the container CR has a diameter approximately equal to the cigarette 23 to ensure a snug fit for good heat energy transfer. The cigarette 23 preferably has a diameter that is approximately equal to the range of diameters known in the art. If you have acceptable manufacturing tolerances for the cigarette 23 pretends, the gradually narrowing area or constriction 365 in the transition between the distal end and the container CR also serve to compress the cigarette slightly in order to ensure thermal contact with the surrounding leaves 121 to increase, which serve as an inner wall of the container. The introductory example shows as a non-limiting example 360 preferably has an inside diameter of about 0.356 inches (0.904 cm) ± 0.02 inches (0.05 cm), and the container CR preferably has an inside diameter of about 0.278 inches (0.706 cm) ± 0.02 inches (0.05 cm) ) on. The leaves 120 can be curved inward to increase thermal contact with the cigarette by narrowing the diameter of the cylindrical container.

Every U-shaped heating sheet 121 comprises a first section or leg 116A that is at a first end from the hub 111 extends, a connecting portion 118 that with an opposite second end of the first section or leg 116A is connected, and a second section or leg 116B that is at a first end of the connecting portion 118 towards the hub 111 extends. The first and second legs 116A and 116B are through a crack 125 separated, which may be relatively constant, are preferably substantially parallel in any unrolled state, as in FIGS 18 and 19 discussed below are continuous in the direction of a cigarette insertion to reduce unwanted obstruction of the cigarette and are oriented to a cylindrical container CR for the inserted cigarette 23 define. The connecting section 118 has a curved connecting edge 118A on to opposite inner edges of the leaf legs 116A and 116B to connect to form an elongated U-shaped resistive path that is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the inserted cigarette and extends adjacent to the cigarette, as discussed in more detail below. The curved connecting edge 118A preferably has a curvature of approximately 180 ° ± 20 ° so that a U-shaped blade is formed, and has a curvature that is towards the hub 111 concave and towards the insertion opening 360 is convex. The first end of the first leaf leg 116A at the hub 111 can be an increased width with the same approximate thickness on the part 115 in relation to the rest of the first leg 116A have the current density and energy density at the part 115 lower to resist ohmic heating of the part 115 to reduce. This widening also increases the mechanical integrity of the sheet 121 on the hub 111 ,

A second end 122 of the second leaf leg 116B is preferably in relation to the main part of the second sheet section 116B increased in a step form to an electrical connection with a respective positive pin 104B to facilitate. More specifically, as in the 12 and 13 depicted the end 122 three sections, namely one section 122A , which is essentially a flat continuation of the main section of the second leaf leg 116B is a transition section 122B that rises at an angle as shown and a connecting end portion 122C which is generally parallel to the section 122A is. The sections of the end 122 can have a wider width than the second leaf leg for increased strength 122B to provide adequate contact area for a positive connection at the connection end portion 122C and to provide the current density and consequently the ohmic heating of the end 122 lower. The end section 122C is preferably tack welded or electrically and mechanically by any other positive pin technique 104B connected.

Another embodiment for achieving the positive connections for the heating sheets 121 is in the 14 and 15 shown. The connection end 122 is preferably not step-like as in the 12 and 13 ; instead, it is essentially a flat extension of the second heater leg 116B , which simplifies the manufacture discussed below. To reduce the possibility of short circuits caused by contact between the positive end 122 with the hub 111 and / or the section 115 of the first leg 116A arise when z. B. the inserted cigarette is twisted by the smoker or modified, is an electrically insulating ceramic layer 300 to the end 122 who have favourited The Hub 111 and the section 115 applied, especially on the respective facing edges of these elements.

Preferably, the ceramic layer is made by any conventional technique, e.g. B. plasma spraying on the hub 111 , the connection end 122 and the section 115 of the first leg 116A applied. The ceramic preferably has a relatively high dielectric constant. Any suitable electrical insulator can be used, e.g. E.g. alumina, zirconia, mulite, corderite, spinel, fosterite, combinations thereof, etc. Preferably zirconia or other ceramic is used with a coefficient of thermal expansion that closely matches that of the underlying metal heater structure to account for differences in expansion and contraction rates during heating and cooling to be avoided, thereby avoiding cracks and / or delamination during operation. The ceramic layer remains physically and chemically stable when the heating element is heated. A thickness of about 0.1 to 10 mils or about 0.5 to 6 mils or more preferably 1-3 mils is preferred for the electrical insulator. Preferably part of the end 122 not coated. The positive pens 104B are then connected to this exposed part as discussed. To simplify masking, a corresponding part of the section 115 likewise not coated with ceramic.

The ceramic can also be used e.g. B. in the same plasma spraying step in the gap 127 between the ends 122 and the sections 115 the first leg 116A and in the gap 126 between the ends 122 and the hub 110 can be applied to form a ceramic hub structure to increase the mechanical integrity of the heater assembly as in 15 shown. The size of this ceramic hub structure can be larger than shown. With or without this additional ceramic application, the ceramic layer electrically isolates the positive connection ends 122 , and the latitude column 127 and 125 can be reduced while providing protection against short circuits. Accordingly, the end section 122 and section 115 of the first leg 116A have an increased area, as a result of which the container is further strengthened and, in the case of a ceramic hub, the skeletal structure is increased and the heater arrangement is further strengthened. In addition, such a ceramic layer smooths out sharp edges that the gaps 125 and 127 limit to reduce the possibility of obstruction and damage to the cigarette, particularly during insertion, removal and any adjustment by the smoker. Alternatively, the whole sheet 121 and especially the first and second legs 116A and 116B on a surface, e.g. B. the outer surface facing away from the cigarette, both the inner and outer surfaces and / or the edges that define the gaps, with a ceramic layer, e.g. B. about 2 mils of zirconia fully coated to solidify the heating sheets, with gaps maintained if desired. The leaves 121 can accordingly be thinner, e.g. B. from about 2 to about 6 mils, thereby increasing the resistance of the heater path and allowing the leaves to increase the heat interface with the inserted cigarette 23 are wider while maintaining the same overall sheet resistance. This increased sheet width together with the ceramic layer further strengthen the heater structure. The ceramic layer can also be on the outer surface of the leaves 121 ; which faces away from the inserted cigarette prevent heat loss from a heated sheet to the environment. The ceramic is preferably applied via plasma spraying or any other method described in the related applications and is preferably applied via physical electron beam deposition to avoid inducing residual stresses from surface treatment and / or one during plasma spraying processing Particle impact can be induced.

Every leaf 121 forms a resistive heating element. More specifically, the first end is 115 of the first leaf section 116A electrically connected to the negative terminal of the power supply, and more specifically, it is an integral extension of the hub 111 or is mechanical and electrical with the hub 111 connected, which in turn is connected to the negative pin 104A by tack welding or another technique such as B. brazing or soldering, electrically and mechanically connected. Preferably the two pins 104A used to provide balanced support as the negative and positive Connections also serve to mechanically support the heater. The hub 111 consequently functions as an electrical common line for all heating sheets 121 , In any of the embodiments, the negative connection can be made for each heater individually, e.g. B. a suitable negative contact that is on a to the respective positive contact areas 122 opposite end of the heater is deposited.

A positive connection for each heating sheet 121 is at the connection end portion 122C of the second leaf section 116B made as discussed. The connection end section 122C is from the common hub 110 through a crack 127 ; from the first leaf section 116A and especially the first end 115 of the assigned heating sheet 120 through a crack 125 ; and from the adjacent heating sheet through a gap 131 electrically separate or insulated to avoid short circuits and to allow thermal expansion. In addition, the ceramic layers discussed are optionally applied. Alternatively, the connection end sections 122C connected to ground.

The positive and negative connections discussed provide a resistive path and, more specifically, a circuit for current drawn from the source of electrical energy, e.g. B. on the control circuitry, on a special sheet (sheets) 120 is activated by a smoker's train when the smoking system is activated. The primarily heated surface of the leaf includes the first leaf leg 116A , the edge part 118A and the second leaf leg 116B , Accordingly, part of the imported cigarette 23 that under the actuated sheet 121 and touches it, which extends alongside, in an outer surface pattern corresponding to the heated part of the sheet, ie in an elongated U-shape corresponding to the sheet above, heated primarily by conduction and radiation, with some convection likely to occur. In addition, the part of the inserted cigarette between the legs, that is, under the gap 125 lies, by overlapping or overlapping cumulative radiation and conduction heat transfer from both the leg 116A as well as the thigh 116B heated. If the gap 125 is too large, the desired overlap does not occur, and the part of the inserted cigarette that is under the gap 125 is not adequately heated. Radiation and line heat also heats strip parts of the inserted cigarette slightly over the outer edges of the heating-sheet legs 116A and 116B out. The various heated parts together form a heated area of the cigarette 23 that extends from slightly above the outer edge of the thigh 116A out, under the thigh 116A , over the gap 125 , under the thigh 116B and slightly over the thigh 116B out from an actuated sheet 121 extends and corresponds to a train of a tobacco flavor produced. The size of the heated part depends on the blade geometry and heating characteristics, as well as the amount and duration of the energy pulse. The heating sheet is preferably dimensioned and thermally constructed such that it finally heats a segment of the inserted cigarette which is of a sufficient size, e.g. B. 18 square millimeters to produce an acceptable train to the smoker in response to a train operated energy pulse.

Relatively larger blade end faces and 122, which form part of the current path, are not heated to these operating temperatures because their relatively larger volumes lower the current density and consequently reduce ohmic heating. Also, a section of the connection end section 118 not heated to these operating temperatures because the heating path tends to edge 118A to follow, and this section forms a relatively larger volume and accordingly has a lower current density and consequently has a lower ohmic heating than the edge 118A and immediately adjacent sections. To undesirably heat the rest of the connection section 118 to further reduce, one can (1) the thickness of the monolithic material from part 118 in relation to the curved edge 118A in an area 118C increase to further reduce the current density and ohmic heating as in 5 shown, (2) the part 118 perforate to reduce ohmic and / or heat transfer paths and / or (3) an additional heat sink material 119 on the part 118 add to reduce heat transfer to the part as in 6 shown. In order to achieve this heat sink function, a thermally non-conductive material, ie a heat insulator, such as. B. a ceramic applied. Examples of suitable ceramics include alumina, zirconia, a mixture of alumina and zirconia, mulite, etc., depending on the heater sheet layer. Any of these modifications should have any adverse effect on the mechanical integrity of the connecting parts 118 be evaluated, the heater arrangement 110 wear and limit an insertion and withdrawal opening for the cigarette.

After a heating sheet 121 is pulsed, there is a predetermined minimum time before a subsequent move is allowed. Premature heating of a part of the cigarette could also lead to undesired and / or partial aerosol generation or heat-induced degradation of the cigarette part before the desired heating. Subsequent reheating of a previously heated part can lead to undesirable flavors and tastes that develop.

If a longer train is desired than that obtained by pulsing a single heater, then the control logic is configured to use a different heater or additional heater (heater) immediately after the initial heater is energized or during an end portion firing the initial impulse to heat another segment of the cigarette. The additional heating sheet can be a radially successive heating sheet or another heating sheet. The heating sheets should be dimensioned so that the entire desired number of trains of a desired duration are obtained.

In one embodiment, the number of heating sheets corresponds 121 the number of trains desired, e.g. B. eight. In another embodiment, the number of heating sheets formed is 121 double the number of moves, e.g. B. There are sixteen parts with heaters for an eight-stroke cigarette. Such a configuration enables fire sequences that differ from the normal successive firing of about 2 seconds and preferably the radial sequential fire sequence for an embodiment in which the number of heating blades 121 corresponds to the train count, are different. For example, the logic circuit can prescribe that two heating blades that are opposite in the circumferential direction 121 Simultaneously fire heating sheets separated by 180 ° on the tube to collectively heat an adequate amount of the cigarette to create a draft. Alternatively, a first fire sequence follows from every second heating sheet 121 for a cigarette a second fire sequence of the heating sheets in between 121 for the next cigarette. Alternatively, this first fire sequence can be repeated for a predetermined life cycle of numerous cigarettes and then the second fire sequence can be initiated. Any combination of heating sheets can be used. The number of heating sheets can be less than, equal to, or greater than the number of puffs of a single cigarette used. For example, a nine-leaf system can be used for a six-pass cigarette, with a different set of six heaters being fired for each subsequent cigarette and the associated set of remaining three heaters not being fired.

The heater assembly 100 is at one end about welding the pin (s) 104A to the hub 110 and the pens 104B to the ends 122 relatively strong electrically and mechanically. The pencils 104A and 104B are preferably preformed or otherwise firmly attached to a plastic hub, preferably in a manner to minimize air leakage. This fixed end is preferably opposite the insertion opening 360 , The connecting sections 118 and especially the opposite ends 118B that the connection edges 118A are opposite, define the insertion opening 360 , The end sections 118B can expand outwards in a funnel shape to form a constriction section 365 define. The leaves 121 This constriction section then narrows to define an inner diameter that is slightly less than the outer diameter of the inserted cigarette 23 at z. B. the leaf center to provide the desired thermal contact, ie compressive forces between the leaves and the cigarette. The end sections 118B can expand freely when heated, ie the end sections 118B are not fixed. More specifically, every end is 118B in a corresponding channel 210 positioned in an inner wall 201 the lighter end cap 83 is localized. More specifically, the radial outward movement of the end sections 118B of inward-biased leaves 121 through the ends 118B the walls of the canals located radially further out 210 Touch to create a limit for preloading and defining the inward preload. This inward bias can be supplemented by the inward bias as discussed. As shown, the inner wall is 201 flared outwards to introduce part of the leaf ends 118B to enable. The radially outer wall of the canal 200 that the end 118B touched, is sized and shaped to introduce an appropriate amount of leaf end 118B is made possible so that the leaf end the channel 210 does not leave during heating or cooling of the leaf or insertion or withdrawal from the cigarette. If desired, this radially outer channel wall with a system, for. B. a trapezoid provided the ends 118B touched. In an alternative embodiment, one part 118D of the leaf end 118B before the inserted end part 118B rounded and special elliptical. This rounded part 118D allows the inserted part in the channel 210 in response to thermally or mechanically induced moments pivots, causing the inserted part of the leaf end in the channel 210 is held. Additionally or alternatively, the leaf ends 118B more rounded.

In a first embodiment, which in 3 is shown is the channel 210 dimensioned so that the end 118B of the heating sheet 121 in a translational manner, ie towards the end face 202 of the channel 210 when inserting the cigarette 23 and / or heating a leaf so that a desired contact between the cigarette and the leaves is achieved. Such an arrangement, in which one end of the blade is free with respect to the oppositely located hub, enables mechanical displacement and / or thermal expansion and contraction of the heating blades 121 in the longitudinal direction with a respective cigarette insertion / withdrawal and / or sheet heating / cooling, whereby stresses are reduced. In a second embodiment, which in 14 is shown is an abutment 204 that can be trapezoidal in the canal 210 localized so that when the heating sheet 121 expands thermally when heated or when the cigarette 23 is introduced, shifted, the end 118B the abutment 204 touched and created a fulcrum to allow the sheet 121 inwards towards the inserted cigarette 23 is biased, thereby reducing tensions on the sheet and increasing the desired thermal contact, ie compressive forces between the sheet and the cigarette. With pivot point is meant that the sheet 121 can rotate freely, but on this abutment 204 preferably can not make a translation.

The heater assembly 100 is therefore preferably a monolithic structure optionally coated with a ceramic, as discussed. The hub 111 and the heating sheets 121 are made of a material with the desired electrical resistance and strength. For example, materials with an electrical resistance in the range of about 50 to about 500 μOhm.cm and more preferably about 100 to about 200 μOhm.cm are preferred so that temperatures from about 200 ° C. to about 1000 ° C. and preferably about 400 ° C. to about 950 ° C, and more preferably about 300 ° C to about 850 ° C through the activated sheet 120 in about 0.2 to about 2.0 seconds with a pulse of about 10 to about 50 joules, more preferably about 10 to about 25 joules, and even more preferably about 20 joules. The material should be able to withstand about 1,800 to about 10,000 such pulses without failure, significant degradation, or undesirable hindering of the leaves 121 will experience.

The materials from which the heating sheets 121 are preferably chosen to ensure reliable repeated uses of at least 1800 on / off cycles without failure. The heater holder 39 is preferably from the lighter 25 including the energy source 37 and the circuitry separately disposable, which is preferably discarded after 3600 cycles or more. The heater materials and other metallic components are also selected based on their resistance to oxidation and general lack of responsiveness to ensure that they do not oxidize or otherwise with the cigarette 23 react at any temperature that is likely to be encountered. If desired, the heating sheets are 121 and other metallic components embedded in an inert thermally conductive material, such as. B. a suitable ceramic material to further avoid oxidation and reaction.

However, the heating blades are more preferred 121 and other metallic components made of a heat-resistant alloy that shows a combination of high mechanical strength and resistance to surface oxidation, corrosion and degradation at high temperatures. Preferably the heater blades 121 Made from a material that shows high strength and surface stability at temperatures up to about 80 percent of their melting points. Such alloys include those commonly referred to as super alloys and generally based on nickel, iron or cobalt. For example, alloys of primarily iron or nickel with aluminum and yttrium are suitable. The alloy preferably comprises the heating blades 121 Aluminum to further improve the performance of the heating element, e.g. B. by providing resistance to oxidation. Preferred materials include iron and nickel aluminides, and most preferably the alloys disclosed in commonly assigned U.S. patent applications Serial-No. 08 / 365,952, filed on December 29, 1994, and in particular Serial-No., Filed herewith simultaneously, with the title "Iron Aluminide Alloys Useful as Electrical Resistance Heating Elements" (representative mark No. PM 1769).

Several elements can be used as additives to the Ni ₃ Al alloys. B and Si are the main alloy additives for the heater layer 122 , It is believed that B improves grain boundary strength and is most effective when the Ni ₃ Al is rich in nickel, e.g. B. Al ≤ 24 atomic percent. Si is not added to the Ni ₃ Al alloys in large quantities, since addition of Si beyond a maximum of 3 percent by weight forms silicides of nickel and leads to SiO _x when oxidized. The addition of Mo improves strength at low and high temperatures. Zirconium supports an improvement of the oxide thermal shock resistance during a thermal cycle. Hf can also be added to improve high temperature strength. A preferred Ni ₃ Al alloy for use as the substrate 300 and the resistive heater 122 is designated IC-50 and it is described in "Processing of Intermetallic Aluminides", V. Sikka, Intermetallic Metallurgy and Processing Intermetallic Compounds, ed. Stoloff et al. Van Nestrand Reinhold, NY, 1994, Table 4, reports that they have about 77.92% Ni, 21.73% A; Contains 0.34% Zr and 0.01% B. Various elements can be added to the iron aluminide. Possible additives include Nb, Cu, Ta, Zr, Ti, Mn, Si, Mo and Ni. The heater material can be: Haynes®-214 alloy (Haynes® alloy No. 214, a nickel-based alloy containing 16.0 percent chromium, 3.0 percent iron, 4.5 percent aluminum, traces of yttrium and the remainder (approximately 75 percent), commercially available from Haynes International of Kokomo, Indiana), Inconel 702 alloy, MCrAlY alloy, FeCrAlY, Nichrome® brand alloys (54-80% nickel, 10-20 % Chromium, 7-27% iron, 0-11% copper, 0-5% manganese, 0.3-4.6% silicon and sometimes 1% molybdenum and 0.25% titanium, Nichrome I 60 % Nickel, 25% iron, 11% chromium and 2% manganese; Nichrome II contains 75% nickel, 22% iron, 11% chromium and 2% manganese; and Nichrome III, a heat-resistant alloy, contains 85% nickel and 15% chromium ), as in the commonly assigned US master patent application Ser.-No. 08 / 380,718, filed January 30, 1995, and U.S. Patent No. 5,388,594, or materials with similar properties.

As in 12 are shown, the heating sheets 121 arranged so that they are symmetrical from the hub 111 extend. Alternatively, non-symmetrical arrangements are used. For example, the majority, z. B. six or eight of heating sheets 121 in z. B. two subgroups of the same number of z. B. three or four heating sheets. The heating sheets in each sub-group are by column 131 separately, as previously discussed. The subgroups are through a wider gap 135 separated as in 19 shown in the unrolled flat state. The gap 135 is defined so that conduction and especially radiant heat transfer from adjacent leaves 121 from adjacent subgroups to the part of the cigarette 23 who is under the gap 135 is minimized. Accordingly, the gap provides 135 a wider unheated and sturdy part of the cigarette, which is stronger than unheated parts of the cigarette, which are under the narrower columns 131 lie, causing the pillar strength of the cigarette 23 is improved in order to support removal of the cigarette after smoking and consequent head upsetting and weakening of parts. If desired, the logic can activate more than one heater simultaneously in the symmetrical or non-symmetrical arrangement.

The present invention, the two heater legs 116A and 116B has through a gap 125 separated leads to significant improvements in the amount of aerosol that is produced when compared to the amount that is produced by a compact heating element. A compact heater achieves good heat transfer with the cigarette; however, a mass transfer of aerosol in the sucked air stream is jeopardized by the fact that the compact structure blocks optimal entrainment of air, which is located outside the cigarette, into the cigarette, especially if the casing of the smoke system housing is provided with perforations to keep air outside to bring the casing in contact with the outside of the cigarette. A heater according to the present invention, which has the same volume as a compact heater but has a larger perimeter, leads to a greater opportunity for entrainment, e.g. B. due to the gap 125 , and accordingly leads to an improved aroma release per energy unit to the leaf 121 , As discussed, the gap should 125 be dimensioned so that it provides an optimal radiation overlap for a given blade geometry. Since a larger amount of aerosol is generated, the required mass of the sheets can be reduced while the same desired amount of flavors are being produced, resulting in a lighter unit and a decrease in the energy required to heat the sheets 121 and to adequately heat the inserted cigarette, which further reduces the weight of the unit since the energy source, e.g. B. batteries can be smaller. Using a non-limiting example, the gap 125 about 0.020 inches (0.051 cm) ± about 0.005 inches (0.013 cm) wide; the, leaf legs 116A and 116B can be about 0.0125 inches (0.0318 cm) to about 0.017 inches (0.043 cm) ± about 0.005 inches (0.013 cm) wide and about 0.055 inches (1.40 cm) ± about 0.005 inches (0.013 cm) long; and about 0.008 inches (0.020 cm) to about 0.010 inches (0.025 cm) thick ± about 0.005 inches (0.013 cm); and the length from the hub 110 edge to the tip of the connection portion 118 may be about 1,062 inches (2,698 cm) ± about 0.0625 inches (0.1588 cm).

It has been found that a primarily transverse or radial flow of air with respect to the inserted cigarette leads to more desirable smoke generation than a primarily longitudinal flow. The gap 125 . 127 and 131 provide ways for air to be drawn in contact with the imported cigarettes. Additional air passages are provided to optimize the transverse air flow by perforating portions of the heater blades.

Another embodiment of a blade geometry is in 16 shown in both the first leg 116A as well as the second leg 116B are serpentine. The snake shapes of the thighs 116A and 116B are parallel, so that the legs are equally spaced, and the gap 125 is also serpentine. Such a snake shape increases the leaf perimeter and consequently improves aerosol entrainment. This form of snake is more fully described in EP-A-0,615,411 as described and in commonly assigned parent patent application Ser.-No. 08 / 380,718, filed January 30, 1995, and U.S. Patent No. 5,388,594.

A first preferred method of manufacturing is now described with reference to 18 and 19 described. The manufacturing steps defined herein can be performed in any order desired to achieve manufacturing speeds, material savings, etc.

A sheet or strip of suitable material with a thickness of e.g. B. about 2 to about 20 mils, e.g. B. about 10 mils, is formed around a plurality of sheets 121 to define which is over the respective first leaf sections 116A and in particular via the respective first end sections 115 generally perpendicular from a generally straight section 111A extend in a comb-like arrangement. The leaves 121 are essentially parallel to each other, with the column 131 between the opposite edges of the second sheet section 116B of a leaf and the first leaf section 116A are located from an adjacent leaf. As discussed, the leaves are 121 either symmetrically with the same columns 131 arranged between them as in 18 shown, or are arranged asymmetrically, for. B. with the same columns 131 between adjacent sheets 121 , with subgroups 121A and 121B defined by leaves, and a larger distance 133 between the two subgroups of width X, as in 19 shown. Note that the straight section 111A has two end parts with a length of at least half the length of one and a half X by a second distance 133 to form after roles. These end portions should be longer than X to provide overlap for a connection. Using a non-limiting example, the gap 131 be about 0.040 inches (0.102 cm) ± 0.005 inches (0.013 cm) wide in each of the embodiments, and the gap 135 may be about 0.125 inches (0.0318 cm) ± 0.005 inches (0.013 cm) wide in the non-symmetrical embodiment.

The blades are configured to connect sections as previously discussed 118 and thighs 116A and 116B to build.

This formation of the sheet or strip of material in the configuration described is accomplished by any conventional technique, such as. B. punching or cutting, e.g. B. performed with a CO2 or Yag laser. If a strip format is used, the number of heating sheets can be 121 formed on the strip exceed the number required for a single cylindrical heater assembly. The straight strip is then cut to sections if necessary 111A to form the desired number of heating sheets 121 have extending from it. If used, the step shape of the sections 122A . 122B and 122C formed by punching.

If used, then the ceramic layer 300 by masking the punched profile and z. B. thermal spraying of the layer on the sections 111A . 150 . 122 or all or any portion thereof to form the desired pattern as discussed. Alternatively, the ceramic layer is applied after the rolling step by this procedure or, if desired, before the sheets are formed. As is known, appropriate masking is performed prior to performing each of the heater and ceramic deposit steps to define areas of deposition.

The section 111A is then rolled around a round hub 111 to build. The section 111A can be rolled in any direction. Preferably the section 111A rolled so that the positive contacts 122C at the end section 122 on the outer surface of the cylindrical heater being formed, ie the side opposite the cigarette, for connection to the pins 104B to simplify and avoid damage during insertion and removal of the cigarette. The rolled section can be rolled to a smaller diameter than its final desired diameter and is inserted into the holder. The rolled section then expands and is kept in shape by the electrical connections. Alternatively, the rolled section is e.g. B. via any welding technique, such as. B. spot welding or laser welding connected to the hub 111 to build.

Preferably a bias is applied to each sheet 121 applied so that the thighs 116A and 116B and the connecting edge 118A exert a compressive force on the inserted cigarette when the heater assembly is formed as in 13 shown. This biasing is preferably done before rolling, but can be implemented after rolling. This biasing increases thermal contact between the heating sheet and the inserted cigarette to improve heat transfer efficiency.

The heat transfer efficiency is also improved by the amount of sheet leg area 116A and 116B is optimized, which are in an efficient thermal relationship with the underlying cigarettes. As in 17A shown are the sub-pages 117 the thigh 116A and 116B (as an example is the thigh 116A shown) plan, ie in the transverse direction of the leaf leg in the embodiments discussed. To improve the heat transfer relationship is the bottom 117 shaped in various non-planar geometries, e.g. An angle or curve to maximize the area of the heated leg with respect to the cigarette without undesirably increasing the volume and consequently undesirably reducing the current density and resulting ohmic heating of the heater leg, as in Figs 17B and 17C played. The molded bottom 117 preferably does not pierce any part of the cigarette 23 to avoid weakening and possibly slitting the cigarette during insertion, adjustment or removal. Rather, the center or apex touches the underside 117 the cigarette or is in close thermal proximity with it, and the rest of the bottom 117 is in a radiant heat relationship with the cigarette 23 ,

This underside shape is preferably obtained by stamping the legs 116A and 1168 of leaves 121 achieved in an unrolled state. This punching can be done at the same time as the punching to achieve the bias discussed above. This punching to form the bottom also increases the strength of the legs 116A and 116B , which prevents undesirable short circuits and deformations.

A second manufacturing method will now be described. A tube of suitable material is provided. The leaves 121 are then formed using any technique, such as B. Laser cutting. Alternatively, the blades are formed by a drop forging technique in which an internal mandrel is inserted into the tube to form the discussed blade profiles, and then another die, either inside or outside, is used to cut the profile. A layer of ceramic 300 if desired, is formed on the profile tube as discussed.

The present invention also minimizes potentially damaging thermally induced chips calculations. Because the heating sheets 121 and the hub 111 are monolithic, stresses that arise from the coupling of discrete parts of a heating element are avoided.

The various embodiments of the present invention are all designed to allow delivery of an effective amount of flavored tobacco response to the smoker under standard conditions of use. In particular, it is currently believed that it is desirable to deliver between 5 and 13 mg, preferably between 7 and 10 mg, of aerosol to a smoker for 8 puffs, each puff being a 35 ml puff, which is a two second Duration. It has been found that in order to achieve such a discharge, the heating elements 121 should be able to promote a temperature as discussed when in a heat transfer relationship with the cigarette 23 stand. The heating sheets should continue 121 preferably use the energy discussed. The heating sheets 121 that go inward towards the cigarette 23 curved to improve the heat transfer relationship, enjoy lower energy requirements.

Of course, the heater resistance is also due to the special energy source 37 prescribed, which is used to provide the necessary electrical energy to the heating blades 121 to heat. For example, the above heater resistors correspond to embodiments where power is supplied by four nickel-cadmium battery cells that are connected in series with a total open circuit power source voltage of about 4.8 to 5.8 volts. In the alternative, if six or eight such batteries in series are used, the heater blades should be used 121 preferably have a resistance of between approximately 3 Ω and approximately 5 Ω or between approximately 5 Ω and approximately 7 Ω.

Another embodiment 450 of the present invention is shown in FIGS 20 and 21 shown that a plurality of heating elements 451 includes. Every heating element 451 is in the form of an elongated "U", each with both ends 452 . 453 of respective legs with those on the end wall 443 of the cavity 430 adjacent side wall of the cavity 430 connected. Every end 452 is individual with the control circuitry and ultimately with the source of electrical energy for a single actuation of the heating elements 451 connected while the ends 453 are connected to ground together. While at the mouth end of the cavity 430 adjacent ends 454 are not electrically connected and consequently the side wall of the cavity 430 need not touch, they are nonetheless towards the side wall of the cavity 430 as in both 20 and 21 to provide an introduction to the disposable, ie, the inserted cigarette, as discussed above. It should be noted that in 21 the top and bottom elements 451 through their U-shaped tips 454 are shown in section.

In another embodiment 470 that in the 22 and 23 is shown are the heating elements 471 a little further from the wall of the cavity 430 spaced, and each is with a slightly sharper "V" tip 472 provided, as well as with a fold 473 to increase their stiffness. This pierces the heating elements 471 actually the disposable part and extend into it to provide the desired intimate thermal contact. The structure of open cell foam described above is particularly well suited to such an embodiment. In this embodiment, because of the heating elements 471 further from the side wall of the cavity 430 are spaced, the ends 452 . 453 not on the side wall of the cavity 430 attached, but on its end wall 443 , Preferably the connections are the ends 452 . 453 with the end wall 443 by spacers 480 made that conduct neither heat nor electricity. In this way, a wiping wipe wipes residue past the ends 452 . 453 and on the spacers 480 where the residues are not reheated, as more fully described in U.S. Patent No. 5,249,586. perforations 412 are provided in the wall to allow outside air through a part 420 is sucked as more fully in U.S. Patent No. 5,249,586.

Many modifications, substitutions, and improvements may be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the present invention as described and defined in the following claims. For example, a modification of the part of the process described above with respect to 5B the smoothing step is carried out before the cooling step.

Claims (91)

Cigarette ( 23 ) comprising a tobacco stick, said tobacco stick ( 60 ) a tubular tobacco track ( 66 ) and a tobacco insert arranged in the said tubular track ( 80 ), the said tobacco rod having a free end ( 78 ) and an opposite end ( 72 ), said tubular tobacco sheet having a carrier sheet ( 68 ) and a layer supported by said carrier web ( 70 ) Comprises tobacco flavor material, said carrier web for transferring heat from an electric heating element ( 37 ) for the tobacco flavor material mentioned, the tobacco stick ( 60 ) for the functional accommodation of an electric heating element ( 37 ) next to the tobacco stick mentioned ( 60 ) at a point between the free end mentioned ( 78 ) and the opposite end mentioned ( 72 ) is executed, whereby the tobacco insert ( 80 ) to the named free Is adjacent end, said tobacco insert being spaced from said opposite end to define an unfilled space ( 91 ) between the said tobacco use and the opposite end. The cigarette of claim 1, wherein said location adjacent to said tobacco rod is such that said location is at least a portion of said unfilled space ( 91 ) overlaps and at least part of the tobacco use mentioned ( 80 ) overlaps. A cigarette according to claim 1 or 2, wherein said tobacco rod has a free flow filter adjacent to said opposite end ( 74 ), whereby the mentioned free flow filter from the mentioned tobacco insert ( 80 ) is spaced around said unfilled space ( 91 ) between the free flow filter and the tobacco insert. A cigarette and lighter to cooperate as an electrical smoking system, said cigarette comprising a tobacco tube that is partially filled with cut filler tobacco, a filled tobacco rod portion and an unfilled tobacco rod portion ( 91 ), where said cigarette ( 23 ) and the named lighter ( 25 ) are mutually arranged, so that an electric heating element of the igniter is at least partially over at least either the filled or the unfilled tobacco rod part when the cigarette is in a functional position in said igniter. A cigarette according to claim 4, wherein said filled tobacco rod portion has a tobacco insert and said electric heater at least about part of the said unfilled Intermediate space is and at least over part of the above The use of tobacco is when the cigarette is functional Position in the lighter is. A cigarette according to claim 4 or 5, wherein said Cigarette has a free end, said tobacco insert is adjacent to said free end, said Cigarette a tubular element has, which is spaced from said tobacco insert to the called unfilled Tobacco stick part between the mentioned free flow filter and the mentioned Define tobacco use. A cigarette according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said tubular member ( 74 ) is a filter. A cigarette as claimed in claim 7, wherein said tubular. Element ( 74 ) is made of a plasticized acetate material. A cigarette according to claim 7, wherein said free flow filter ( 74 ) is made of a molded material. A cigarette according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a filter mouthpiece ( 62 ). The cigarette of claim 10; where the mouthpiece mentioned ( 62 ) a second free flow filter ( 102 ) adjacent to said opposite end, said cigarette further covering paper ( 64 ), which has the named second free-flow filter ( 102 ) at the opposite end. A cigarette according to claim 11, wherein said mouthpiece further comprises a mouthpiece filter rod ( 104 ) connected to the second free flow filter ( 102 ) adjoins. A cigarette according to claim 12, wherein said free flow filter ( 74 ) of the tobacco stick mentioned ( 66 ) a first run ( 75 ) and the second free flow filter ( 102 ) of said mouthpiece has a second passage, said first and second passage having said unfilled space ( 91 ) of the tobacco stick mentioned with the mouthpiece filter rod ( 104 ) connect, said second passage having a second inner radius that is greater than a first inner radius of said first passage ( 75 ). The cigarette of claim 12, wherein said tobacco rod further includes a backflow filter ( 200 ' ) has at the named free end. A cigarette according to claim 12, wherein said tobacco insert ( 80b ) to the free end mentioned ( 78b ) adjacent first part ( 320b ) which has a greater density than a second part distal from the free end mentioned ( 310b ) of the tobacco stick mentioned. Cigarette ( 23 ), comprising a tobacco stick ( 60 ) with a free reverse current resistance end ( 78 ) and an opposite end ( 72 ), the said tobacco stick being a tubular tobacco track ( 66 ) with a layer of tobacco material ( 78 ) has a functional flow restriction at said opposite end of said tubular track ( 74 ) and tobacco ( 78 . 80 ) functionally adjacent to said free end and spaced from said flow restriction, said tobacco comprising cut tobacco that partially fills said tobacco rod to define a filled tobacco rod portion and an unfilled tobacco rod portion, said unfilled one Located adjacent said flow restriction, said tubular track being arranged to conduct heat absorbed by said tubular track to said tobacco, said tobacco rod ( 60 ) is arranged in such a way that during a pull on said cigarette when heat is applied along a region of said tubular web, at least part of the tobacco is caused to release tobacco aerosol which is drawn through said flow restriction. A cigarette according to claim 16, wherein said flow restriction ( 74 ) is defined by a tubular element. The cigarette of claim 17, wherein said tubular member includes a first free flow filter ( 74 ), said first free-flow filter having a first passage ( 75 ) hereby defined, said cigarette further comprising a mouthpiece ( 62 ), said mouthpiece having a second tubular free-flow filter ( 102 ) located adjacent to said first free flow filter of said tobacco rod, said second tubular free flow filter thereby defining a second pass therethrough, said first pass of said first free flow filter being narrower than said unfilled portion ( 91 ) of said tobacco stick and narrower than said second passage of said second free flow filter ( 102 ) is. The cigarette of claim 18, wherein said sliced filling tobacco a reverse current resistance insert forms. The cigarette of claim 19, wherein said portion of said cut filler tobacco ( 80 ) at the named free end ( 78 ) and has a density greater than a remainder of said cut tobacco cut distal from said free end. A cigarette according to claim 20, wherein said mouthpiece ( 62 ) also a to the second free-flow filter mentioned ( 102 ) adjacent mouthpiece filter ( 104 ) having. A cigarette according to claim 20, wherein said tubular web is a cigarette wrapper ( 71 ) around the tobacco stick mentioned ( 60 ) around, the mouthpiece mentioned with a covering paper ( 64 ) is attached to the tobacco stick mentioned. A cigarette according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said tobacco or tobacco insert ( 80 ) includes a cut filling tobacco. A cigarette according to claim 23, wherein said tobacco or tobacco insert ( 80 ) comprises a mixture of cut filler tobacco, said mixture comprising a combination of at least two Bright, Burley or Orient tobacco. A cigarette according to claim 23 or 24, wherein said tobacco insert is a filler tobacco cut around said 80 ) insert casing arranged around ( 84 ) Has. A cigarette according to claim 23 or 24, wherein said tobacco ( 70 ) along an inner surface of the said tubular tobacco track ( 66 ) is located. A cigarette according to claim 26, wherein said tobacco rod is a wrapper disposed around an outer surface of said tubular tobacco rod or stick part ( 71 ) having. Method for improving the delivery of smoke from a cigarette operated by an electronic lighter ( 23 ), said cigarette being a tubular track ( 66 ) with a free end ( 78 ) and an opposite end ( 72 ), wherein smoke is extractable from said opposite end, the method comprising the steps of establishing an unfilled portion along said tubular path at a location adjacent the opposite end and a tobacco-filled portion along said tubular path at an adjacent location said free end adjacent location and superimposing an electrical heating element of said electronic igniter at least partially over said filled portion of said tubular web while said electrical heating element is activated to cause smoke components to be released from said tobacco. The method of claim 28, wherein said overlay step the overlapping Arranging said electric heating element partially over the mentioned filled Part of the aforementioned tubular track and over the aforementioned unfilled Part of the aforementioned tubular track while of activating said electric heating element. The method of claim 28 or claim 29; further comprehensively the step of passing said released Tobacco ingredients by one to the opposite end adjacent construction. Tobacco track to roll into a tubular tobacco stick ( 60 ) one with an electric cigarette lighter ( 25 ) functional cigarette ( 23 ), said tobacco lane being a carrier lane ( 68 ) and a tobacco material arranged along a first side of said carrier web ( 70 ), wherein said carrier web comprises a combination of tobacco fiber and cellulose fiber, said tobacco fiber and said cellulose fiber being combined in a ratio in the range of approximately 2: 1 to 4: 1, said carrier web having a basis weight in a range of about 35 to 45 g / m ² , said tobacco material having at least twice the basis weight of said carrier web, said tobacco material having finely ground tobacco and extracted tobacco solids in a ratio ranging from about 3: 1 to 9: 1 and one Humectant in an amount of about 5 to 20 weight percent of said material. A tobacco track according to claim 31, wherein said Tobacco stuff an approximate three to four times the basis weight than the mentioned carrier web Has. A tobacco track according to claim 31 or 32, wherein the said tobacco material also pectin in a proportion of up to approximately Has 2 percent by weight of the tobacco material mentioned. The tobacco web of claim 33, wherein said carrier web comprises about 28 g / m ² tobacco pulp and about 12 g / m ² cellulose pulp of a wood pulp or flax pulp or tobacco stem pulp. A tobacco track according to claim 34, wherein said Tobacco material approximately 66 to 71 weight percent tobacco particles, approximately 16 to 20 weight percent extracted tobacco solids, about 10 to 14 weight percent Glycerin and about 1-2% pectin includes. Tobacco track to roll into a tubular tobacco stick ( 60 ) one with an electric cigarette lighter ( 25 ) functional cigarette ( 23 ), said tobacco lane being a carrier lane ( 68 ) and a tobacco material arranged along a first side of said carrier web ( 70 ), said carrier web comprising a combination of tobacco fiber in a component basis weight of approximately 20 to 30 g / m ² and carbon fiber in a component basis weight of approximately 2-9 g / m ² and pectin in a component basis weight of approximately 1 g / m ² , said tobacco material having a basis weight three to four times greater than said carrier web, said tobacco material having finely ground tobacco and extracted tobacco solids in a ratio in the range of about 3: 1 to 9: 1 and one Humectant in a proportion in the range of about 5 to 20 weight percent of said tobacco material. Functional cigarette with an electric cigarette lighter, said cigarette being a tubular tobacco rod ( 6 ) comprises from a tobacco web according to one of claims 31 to 36 is posed. The cigarette of claim 37, further comprising a to a free end ( 78 ) of the tobacco stick mentioned ( 60 ) adjacent insert from cut filler ( 80 ), at least one to the opposite end ( 72 ) of the aforementioned tubular tobacco rod free flow filter ( 74 ) and a filler-free cavity arranged between said insert made of cut filler and said tubular free-flow filter ( 91 ). Method of making a tobacco sheet ( 66 ), comprising a carrier web ( 68 ) and a layer of tobacco material ( 70 ), said tobacco lane being in a tubular shape as part of an electric cigarette lighter ( 25 ) functional cigarette ( 22 ) can be folded, the method mentioned comprising the following steps: separation of soluble substances (an 124 ) of tobacco raw material fibers, wherein said soluble substances are in solution, which comprises about 5 to about 10 percent by weight of dissolved tobacco components 128 ) said carrier web by forming a pulp from said secreted tobacco pulp and a strengthening agent to form a pulpy mixture and pouring (on 130 ) said slurry mixture on a web forming device, producing (an 146 ) a tobacco material by mixing said about 5 to about 10 percent solution of tobacco ingredients with additional tobacco particles, a humectant and pectin to form a tobacco material dispersion and adjusting the water content to have a solids content in the range of about 20 in said dispersion to achieve up to 30%, application (at 144 drying said tobacco material dispersion along said carrier web to form an arch of said tobacco web, drying (on 146 ) said sheet of said tobacco sheet to a moisture content of about 8.5% to about 12%, cooling (on 148 ) of the said arc of the tobacco lane to an ambient temperature, smoothing (at 150 ) of the named sheet of the mentioned tobacco lane, winding (on 152 ) said arc of said tobacco lane to form a tobacco lane roll and columns (an 154 ) the tobacco sheeting roll to produce a tobacco sheeting bobbin. The method of claim 39, wherein said solution from soluble Tobacco substances approximately 7 to 8 percent by weight dissolved Has tobacco ingredients. The method of claim 39 or 40, wherein the ambient temperature in the range of 65 ° to 80 ° F (18.3 ° to 26.7 ° C). The method of claim 39, 40 or 41, wherein said pectin is added in a component basis weight of from about 0.5 to about 1.5 g / m ² . Method according to one of claims 39 to 42, wherein the called humectant is glycerin, which in a proportion in Range of approximately 5 to 20 dry weight percent of said tobacco material is added. The method of claim 40, 41, 42 or 43, in which the amount of water is adjusted to at the end of the mixing step a dispersion of approximately To achieve 22 to 27 solids content. The method of claim 44, wherein the amount of water is adjusted to a dispersion at the end of the mixing step of about To achieve 24 to 26% solids content. The method of claim 45, wherein the tobacco particles a size in the range of about 100 to 220 mesh.  The method of claim 46, wherein the tobacco particles about 120 mesh in size to have. Method according to one of claims 39 to 47, wherein the said porridge means comprises at least one of the following: Wood pulp, flax pulp, flax pulp and tobacco stem pulp. Method according to one of claims 39 to 48, wherein the said application step is the application of said tobacco material dispersion on the carrier web mentioned with a dry weight ratio of at least 3: 1. Method according to one of claims 39 to 49, wherein the said application step is the application of said tobacco material dispersion on the carrier web mentioned with a dry weight ratio of at least 3: 1. The tobacco web of claim 36, wherein said tobacco pulp has a component basis weight of about 24 to 28 g / m ² , carbon fiber has a component basis weight of about 2 to 4 g / m ^2, and pectin has a component basis weight of about 2.5 to 1.5 m ² . Heater ( 39 ) for use in a smoking system with a source of electrical energy for heating a cigarette, the heating device comprising: a plurality of electrical resistance heating blades ( 121 ) which define a container for receiving an inserted cigarette and extend along the inserted cigarette, each sheet having a first heater leg ( 116A ) with a first end and a second end, a second heater blade leg ( 116B ) with a first end and a second ( 122 ) End and a connecting section ( 118 ), which connects the second end of said first heating sheet leg and the first end of said second heating sheet leg, said first and second heating sheet legs of the heating sheets each having a respective gap ( 125 ) are separated and wherein the first ends of said first heater leg are configured to be in electrical contact with the source of electrical energy, forming respective resistance heating paths that include said first heater leg, said connecting edge portion and said second heater leg to heat each of the electrical resistance heating sheets mentioned, which in turn heats the inserted cigarette. A heater as claimed in claim 52, wherein the second end ( 122 ) the second heater leg ( 116B ) is grounded. 53. The heater of claim 52 or 53, wherein the second ends of said second heater leg together are switched on. Heating device according to one of claims 52 to 54, in which the gap ( 125 ), which separates the first and second heater leg, is sized to allow airflow to be carried into the heated cigarette when pulled by a smoker. A heating device according to any one of claims 52 to 55, further comprising a supporting hub ( 111 ), the first ends of each of said first heater blade legs ( 116A ) from said support hub, said support hub being configured to be in electrical contact with the source of electrical energy to form a common line for the first ends of said first heater leg. The heater of claim 56, wherein the second ends of said second heater leg ( 116B ) are configured to be in or in electrical contact with the source of electrical energy, forming respective resistance heating circuits comprising said first heater leg, said connecting edge portion and said second heater blade to each of said electrical resistance heater blades ( 121 ) or to heat, which in turn heats the inserted cigarette. A heater as claimed in claim 56 or 57, wherein the second ends ( 122 ) the second heater leg ( 116B ) to the named supporting hub ( 111 ) extend and are electrically isolated from it. A heater as claimed in claim 56 or 57, wherein the second ends ( 122 ) the second heater leg ( 116B ) are separated from the hub by a gap.  The heater of claim 56, further comprising an electrical insulator on at least said hub and / or the second ends of said second heater leg is applied. 57. The heater of claim 56 further comprising an electrical insulator connected to at least the second ends of said second heater blade legs and / or the first ends of said first Heater leg is created. The heater of claim 56, further comprising an electrical insulator ( 300 ) which has a ceramic hub support structure around said supporting hub ( 111 ), the second ends ( 122 ) the second heater leg ( 116B ) and the first ends of the first heater leg ( 116B ) forms around. Heating device according to one of claims 56 to 62, in which the bearing hub and the said blades are monolithic are. A heating device according to any one of claims 52 to 63, wherein said connecting portion ( 118 ) also a free end ( 118B ) includes to compensate for thermal expansion when the heating element is heated. 65. The heater of claim 64, further comprising a support structure ( 83 ), which is permanently arranged in the smoking system and channels ( 210 ) for picking up the free ends ( 118B ) of the named connecting sections of the named sheets ( 121 ) Are defined. A heating device according to claim 65, wherein said channels ( 210 ) are arranged to allow thermal translation expansion and contraction of the heating sheets mentioned. The heater of claim 65 or 66, further comprising a fulcrum located in each of said grooves ( 204 ), said pivot point being positioned so that the associated free end ( 118B ) of the said connecting section rotates about the said pivot points, about the said first and second heater blade legs ( 116A, B ) to pretension the heated cigarette inward on the inserted cigarette. A heating device according to any one of claims 51 to 67, wherein parts of at least said first heater blade leg ( 116A ) and / or the mentioned second heater leg ( 116B ) with ceramics ( 300 ) are coated in order to consolidate and electrically isolate at least the said first heater leg and / or the said second heater leg. The heater of claim 67, wherein a portion of said second heater blade leg adjacent said ceramic ( 116B ) is designed to be in electrical contact with the source of electrical energy. Heating device according to one of Claims 62 to 69, in which the blades ( 121 ) are arranged to slidably receive the inserted cigarette. A heater as claimed in any one of claims 52 to 70, wherein the second end of said second heater leg has a step shape, said step shape having an end portion ( 122C ), which is designed to be in electrical contact with the source of electrical energy. A heater according to any one of claims 52 to 71, wherein said first and second heater blade legs ( 116A , B) of a relevant heating sheet ( 121 ) are largely parallel. Heating device according to one of claims 52 to 72, in which the said connecting edge has a curvature between approximately 160 ° and 200 °. Heating device according to one of Claims 52 to 73, in which one of the undersides facing the inserted cigarette of at least said first and / or second heating-sheet legs ( 116A, B ) is largely non-planar in a transverse direction of the said heating sheet leg.  The heater of claim 74, wherein said Underside curved is. The heater of claim 74, wherein said Bottom is angled. A heater according to any one of claims 52 to 76, wherein said plurality of electrical resistance heating blades ( 121 ) are arranged in groups, with columns ( 133 ) are sized between groups to provide unheated parts of the inserted cigarette that provide strength hen to make it easier to remove the cigarette after smoking. Heating device according to one of Claims 52 to 77, in which at least the said first and / or second heating-sheet limbs ( 116A, B ) are serpentine. 78. The heater of claim 78, wherein the first and the second leaf legs serpentine and parallel on both sides are so that the space between the thighs is meandering. The heater of claim 52, wherein at least one end of at least one sheet ( 121 . 122 ) is wider than an adjacent active part of said at least one leg, the end of said leg having a lower current density and less ohmic heating than the active part of said leg. A heating device according to any one of claims 52 to 80, wherein said connecting portion ( 119 ) is perforated. A heater according to any one of claims 52 to 81, wherein said first and second heater blade legs ( 116A , B) are biased towards the inside of the inserted cigarette. A heater as claimed in any one of claims 52 to 82, wherein said first and second heater blade legs ( 116A, B ) and the connection edges mentioned have a resistance of approximately 100 to approximately 200 μOhmcm. A heater as claimed in any one of claims 52 to 83, wherein said first and second heater blade legs ( 116A, B ) and the connection edges mentioned have a resistance of approximately 50 to approximately 500 μOhmcm. A heater as claimed in any one of claims 52 to 84, wherein said first and second heater blade legs ( 116A, B ) and said connection edges can reach temperatures of about 200 ° C to about 1000 ° C with a pulse of about 10 to about 50 joules in about 0.2 to about 2.0 seconds. 85. The heater of claim 85, wherein said first and second legs ( 116A, B ) and the connection edges mentioned can be pulsed to these temperatures for approximately 1800 to 10,000 such pulses. The heater of claim 53, wherein the gap ( 125 ), which mentioned the first and second heater blade legs ( 116A , B) has a size to maximize cumulative radiant heating of a portion of the inserted cigarette under the gap from the respective first and second heater leg of an associated heater. A heater according to any one of claims 52 and 87, wherein said first and second heater blade legs ( 116A, B ) and said connecting edge portion have an electrical resistance material selected from the group consisting of iron aluminides and nickel aluminides. Electrical smoking system, comprising a Cigarette according to one of the claims 1 to 3 and a lighter, being the lighter has a plurality of resistance heating sheets that contain a receptacle of the heating sheets define what the leaves at least partially overlap said tobacco insert when said Cigarette in the named container is used. Electrical smoking system according to claim 89, where the heating sheets mentioned themselves along the length of said tobacco insert and said unfilled space partially overlap. Electrical smoking system according to claim 89 or 90, where the lighter a heater according to any one of claims 52 to 88.