KR20200108087A - Aerosol generation - Google Patents

Abstract

Provided herein is a heat-not-burn article comprising an aerosol generating medium and a filter. The filter holds one or more crushable capsules. In use, the aerosol-generating medium is heated without burning, and the capsule is exposed to a temperature of about 30 to 100°C. During this exposure, the structural integrity of the capsule is not compromised, so the capsule can be crushed by the user before, during or after heating.

Description

Aerosol generation

The present invention relates to a heat-not-burn article and a non-burning heating assembly.

Items such as cigarettes, cigars, etc. burn cigarettes during use to produce cigarette smoke. Alternatives to these combustible articles generate an inhalable aerosol by heating the base material.

These products may generally be referred to as aerosol generating devices. Examples of such aerosol-generating devices are so-called non-combustible heating products, also known as tobacco heating products or tobacco heating devices, which release compounds by heating a solid base material to form an inhalable aerosol but not burning it. This material may be, for example, a combination such as tobacco or other non-tobacco products or blended mixes, which may or may not contain nicotine.

A first aspect of the invention provides a non-combustible heating article comprising an aerosol-generating medium and a filter, the filter holding one or more crushable capsules, and when in use, the aerosol-generating medium burns Is not heated, and the capsule is exposed to a temperature of about 30 to 100° C., and the structural integrity of the capsule is not impaired during this exposure, so the capsule can be crushed by the user before, during or after heating.

In some cases, in use, the aerosol-generating medium generates a moist aerosol, and the capsule is exposed to at least 12 mg of water.

In some cases, the capsule has a core-shell structure, the core contains a liquid, the shell encapsulates the core, and the shell is 5 to 90 based on the total capsule shell weight. Weight percent of a gelling agent, wherein the gelling agent comprises carrageenan.

In some cases, the aerosol-generating medium includes an aerosol-generating agent. In some cases, the aerosol-generating medium includes at least 10% by weight of an aerosol-generating agent based on the total weight of the aerosol-generating medium.

In some cases, the aerosol-generating medium includes tobacco material.

In some cases, the aerosol-generating medium includes an aerosol-generating agent and tobacco material that may be provided in the same portion of the aerosol-generating medium or in separate sections of the aerosol-generating medium.

In some cases, the capsule fills about 5-30% v/v of the filter.

In some cases, the filter comprises 70-95% v/v of filter material. In some cases, the filter material has an average melting point of at least about 150 °C. In some cases, the filter material has an average thermal conductivity of at least 0.130 W/mK.

In some cases, the filter further includes a wrapper surrounding other filter elements.

In some cases, the shell contains from 5 to 60 weight percent carrageenan as a gelling agent, based on the total capsule shell weight. Suitably, the shell comprises 10 to 35% by weight of carrageenan as gelling agent, based on the total capsule shell weight.

In some cases, the gelling agent of the capsule shell includes carrageenan. In some cases, the carrageenan in question has a melting point of at least about 30 °C or at least about 40 °C.

In some cases, the capsule shell further comprises a plasticizer. In some cases, the total amount of plasticizer and gelling agent combined in the shell may be about 40 to 70 weight percent based on the total capsule shell weight.

In some cases, the capsule shell further comprises a carbohydrate such as starch.

In some cases, the capsule has an initial crush strength (before heating) of about 0.8 kilopond (kp) to about 3.5 kp, suitably about 1.0 kp to about 2.5 kp, or about 1.0 kp to about 2.0 kp. Have.

In some cases, the capsule core includes a flavoring agent.

A second aspect of the present invention provides a non-combustible heating assembly comprising a non-combustible heating article and a heater according to the first aspect.

In some cases, the capsule is at least about 25 mm or at least about 30 mm away from the heater. In some cases, the capsule is 25 to 30 mm away from the heater. In some other cases, the capsule is 30 to 35 mm away from the heater.

In some cases, the heater comprises a combustible fuel source, which is arranged such that upon ignition the fuel source heats but does not burn the aerosol-generating medium of the non-combustible heated article.

In some cases, a heater is a device in which a non-combustible heating article is at least partially inserted so that the aerosol-generating medium is heated but not burned in use.

In some cases, the assembly is configured such that one or more capsules are exposed to a temperature of about 30-100° C. In some cases, the assembly is configured such that one or more capsules are exposed to a temperature of about 40 to 90°C.

In some cases, the assembly may be configured to expose the aerosol-forming medium to at least 200° C. for at least 50% of the heating period.

According to a further aspect, the present invention comprises a filter for a non-combustible heated article, the filter having a pulverizable capsule, when in use, the aerosol-generating medium is heated without burning, and the capsule has a temperature of about 30 to 100° C. And its structural integrity is not impaired during this exposure, so the capsule can be crushed by the user before, during or after heating,

To the extent that they are compatible, features disclosed in connection with one aspect of the present invention are explicitly disclosed in combination with all other aspects.

Further features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of examples of the present invention, given by way of example only, made with reference to the accompanying drawings.

1 shows a schematic side view of an example of a non-combustible heated article.
2 shows a schematic side view of an example of a non-combustion heating assembly.
3 shows a cross-sectional view of an example of a non-combustible heated article.
4 shows a perspective view of the article of FIG. 3.
5 shows a cross-sectional elevational view of an example of a non-combustible heated article.
6 shows a perspective view of the article of FIG. 5.
7 shows a perspective view of an example of a non-combustion heating assembly.
8 shows a cross-sectional view of an exemplary non-combustion heating assembly.
9 shows a perspective view of an example of an exemplary non-combustion heating assembly.

A first aspect of the present invention provides a non-combustible heating article comprising an aerosol-generating medium and a filter, the filter holding one or more pulverizable capsules, when in use, the aerosol-generating medium is heated without burning, and the capsule is approximately Since it is exposed to a temperature of 30-100° C., and its structural integrity is not impaired during this exposure, the capsule can be crushed by the user before, during or after heating.

Aerosols generated by non-combustion heating products are typically warm and humid due to the nature of the heating profile and the composition of the aerosol-generating medium. For example, the aerosol-generating medium in a non-combustible heating product according to the present invention may contain a greater proportion of the aerosol-generating agent than the smokeable material used in the combustible product. Additionally, or alternatively, the aerosol-generating medium in the non-combustible heating product according to the invention can be heated to a temperature higher than the burning temperature/duration of the combustible product and/or for a longer period. The inventors have established that the capsules detailed in claim 1 are particularly suitable for use in non-combustible heating products and conditions therein. It has been found that the capsules defined in claim 1 are less likely to break or rupture when exposed to conditions in a non-combustible heated product compared to other capsules.

In some cases, in use, the aerosol-generating medium generates a moist aerosol and the capsule is exposed to at least 12 mg of water.

The inventors have established that the temperature profile in the center of the filter peaks at the time of each puff during use. This is because hot aerosol is sucked through the filter during puffing. In some cases, the capsule may be exposed to temperatures in excess of about 30° C., 40° C. or 50° C. during use. In some cases, the maximum temperature the capsule is exposed to in use is less than about 100°C, 90°C, 80°C or 70°C. In some cases, the capsule may be exposed to a temperature in the range of 30 °C to 100 °C, suitably in the range of 40 °C to 80 °C or 50 °C to 70 °C.

As used herein, the term “non-combustible heated article” refers to an article containing an aerosol-generating medium; In use, the components of the aerosol-generating medium are not burned/combusted and are volatilized by heating to form inhalable vapors or aerosols.

The aerosol-generating medium of the non-combustible heated article comprises a solid component (as opposed to the aerosol-generating medium of e-cigarettes in which the aerosol-generating medium is a liquid). By “solid” is meant that the aerosol-generating medium does not exhibit flow when in a steady state. The solid may include gels and the like. For the avoidance of doubt, the aerosol-generating medium of a non-combustible heated article may contain a liquid component in addition to a solid component.

The capsules described herein may have a core-shell structure. In these cases, the core contains a liquid. In some cases, the core may include one or more aerosol-generating agents and/or one or more flavoring agents. In some cases, the core may comprise acids, bases and/or water. In some cases, the core may comprise a solvent. In some specific cases, the core may contain menthol.

The capsule shell material (which may alternatively be referred to herein as a barrier material or encapsulating material) encapsulates the core. In some cases, the shell material can function to minimize movement of the core during storage of the product. In some cases, the shell material can provide controlled release of the core during use. The capsule can be ruptured (ie, pulverized) to release the contents before, during or after heating the non-combustible heated article.

The capsule shell material is crushable; That is, it is fragile or fragile. Capsules can be crushed or otherwise broken or destroyed by the user to release the contents. Typically, the capsule breaks just before heating is initiated, but the user can choose when to release the contents (ie, the capsule can be crushed after heating is initiated). The term “crushable capsule” refers to a capsule in which the encapsulating material (which may be a shell) can be broken by pressure to release the encapsulated material (which may be a capsule core); More specifically, the encapsulating material (eg, a shell) may rupture under pressure exerted by the user's fingers (or any other pressure generating means) when the user wishes to release the contents of the capsule. In some cases, the capsule may have an initial (preheat) crush strength of about 0.8 kp to about 3.5 kp, suitably about 1.0 kp to about 2.5 kp or about 1.0 to about 2.0 kp. The inventors have established that capsules can weaken upon heating. The inventors have established that capsules with an initial crush strength of at least 0.8 kp are less likely to break/break upon heating. The inventors have established that capsules with a crushing strength of more than 3.5 kp are difficult to crush before heating. The inventors have determined that an initial crush strength in the range of 1.0 kp to 2.0 kp provides the best capsule performance.

In some cases, the capsules described herein may be substantially spherical and may have a diameter of at least about 0.4 mm, 0.6 mm, 0.8 mm, 1.0 mm, 2.0 mm, 2.5 mm, 2.8 mm or 3.0 mm. The diameter of the capsules may be less than about 10.0 mm, 8.0 mm, 7.0 mm, 6.0 mm, 5.5 mm, 5.0 mm, 4.5 mm, 4.0 mm, 3.5 mm or 3.2 mm. Illustratively, the capsule diameter may range from about 0.4 mm to about 10.0 mm, from about 0.8 mm to about 6.0 mm, from about 2.5 mm to about 5.5 mm, or from about 2.8 mm to about 3.2 mm. In some cases, the capsule can have a diameter of about 3.0 mm to about 3.5 mm. These sizes are particularly suitable for incorporating capsules into filters for non-combustible heating articles.

In some cases, the total weight of the capsules described herein is about 1 mg to about 100 mg, suitably about 5 mg to about 60 mg, about 10 mg to about 50 mg, about 15 mg to about 40 mg, or It may range from about 15 mg to about 30 mg.

In some cases, the total weight of the core formulation is about 2 mg to about 90 mg, suitably about 3 mg to about 70 mg, about 5 mg to about 25 mg, about 8 mg to about 20 mg, or about 10 mg. To about 15 mg.

The shell comprises from 5 to 90% by weight of a gelling agent, based on the total capsule shell weight, wherein the gelling agent comprises, consists essentially of, or consists of carrageenan. In some cases, the shell comprises 5 to 60 weight %, 5 to 50 weight% or 10 to 35 weight% of the gelling agent based on the total capsule shell weight. In some cases, the gelling agent of the capsule shell includes carrageenan. In some cases, the carrageenan in question has a melting point of at least about 30 °C or at least about 40 °C.

In addition to carrageenan, the shell may contain additional gelling agents. Suitable gelling agents that may be included in the capsule shell material are, without limitation, polysaccharide or cellulosic gelling agents, gelatins, gums, gels, waxes or mixtures thereof. It may include. Suitable polysaccharides include alginates, dextrans, maltodextrins, cyclodextrins and pectins. Suitable alginates include, for example, salts of alginic acid, esterified alginates or glyceryl alginates. Salts of alginic acid include ammonium alginate, triethanolamine alginate, and Group I or II metal ion alginate salts such as sodium, potassium, calcium and magnesium alginate. Esterified alginates include propylene glycol alginate and glyceryl alginate. In some examples, the barrier material includes sodium alginate and/or calcium alginate. Suitable cellulosic materials include methyl cellulose, ethyl cellulose, hydroxyethyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, carboxymethyl cellulose, cellulose acetate and cellulose ether. The gelling agent may include one or more modified starches. The gelling agent may include one or more carrageenans. Suitable gums are agar, gellan gum, gum Arabic, pullulan gum, mannan gum, gum ghatti, gum tragacanth. tragacanth, Karaya, locust bean, acacia gum, guar, quince seed and xanthan gum. Suitable gels include agar, agarose, carrageenan, furoidan and furcellaran. Suitable waxes include carnauba wax. In some cases, the gelling agent may include carrageenan and/or gellan gum; These gelling agents are particularly suitable for inclusion as gelling agents because the pressure required to break the resulting capsules is particularly adequate. In some cases, the capsule shell does not contain gelatin.

The capsule shell may further contain one or more of a bulking agent, a buffering agent, a colorant and a plasticizer.

In some cases, the capsule shell material may include one or more bulking agents such as starches, modified starches (eg, oxidized starches) and sugar alcohols such as maltitol.

In some cases, the capsule shell material may include a colorant that facilitates positioning of the capsule within the tobacco industry product during manufacture. The colorant is preferably selected from colorants and pigments.

In some cases, the capsule shell material may further comprise one or more buffering agents such as citrate or phosphate compounds.

In some cases, the capsule shell material may further include at least one plasticizer, which is glycerol, sorbitol, maltitol, triacetin, polyethylene glycol, propylene. It may be glycol (propylene glycol) or other polyalcohol having plasticizing properties, and may optionally be one acid of the mono, di- or triacid type, in particular citric acid, fumaric acid, malic acid, and the like. In some cases, the amount of plasticizer ranges from 1% to 30% by weight, preferably from 2% to 15% by weight, and even more preferably from 3 to 10% by weight of the total weight of the shell. In some cases, the total amount of plasticizer and gelling agent combined in the shell is about 40 to 70% by weight, suitably 50 to 60% by weight, based on the total capsule shell weight. In some cases, the plasticizer comprises, consists essentially of, or consists of glycerol.

In some cases, the capsule shell may also include one or more filler materials. Suitable filler materials include starch derivatives such as dextrin, maltodextrin, cyclodextrin (alpha, beta or gamma), or hydroxypropyl-methylcellulose (HPMC), hydroxypropylcellulose (HPC), methylcellulose (MC), carboxy -Cellulose derivatives such as methylcellulose (CMC), polyvinyl alcohol, polyols or mixtures thereof. The capsule shell may, in some cases, contain up to about 60% by weight of filler based on the total capsule shell weight. In some cases, the capsule shell may comprise up to about 50%, 40%, 30% or 20% by weight filler based on the total capsule shell weight. In some specific cases, the capsule shell may not contain a filler.

The capsule shell may further comprise a hydrophobic outer layer that reduces the susceptibility of the capsule to moisture-induced degradation. The hydrophobic outer layer includes waxes, in particular carnauba wax, candelilla wax or beeswax, carbowax, shellac (in alcohol or aqueous solution), ethyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose, hydroxy It is appropriately selected from the group containing the loxyl-propylcellulose, latex composition, polyvinyl alcohol, or combinations thereof. More preferably, the at least one moisture barrier is ethyl cellulose or a mixture of ethyl cellulose and shellac.

Methods of making capsules include coextrusion, optionally followed by centrifugation and curing and/or drying. These and other suitable techniques are known in the art.

The filter may comprise filter material. For example, the filter may comprise a cellulosic material such as cellulose acetate, ceramic material, polylactic acid, polymer matrix and/or activated carbon. Suitable examples of ceramic materials include silicon carbide (SiC), silicon nitride (Si ₃ N ₄ ), titanium carbide, and zirconium dioxide (zirconia).

In some cases, the filter material has an average melting point of at least about 150 °C. When used in an aerosol-generating device, the filter is typically exposed to temperatures below 150° C.; Thus, in these embodiments, the filter does not melt and supports the capsule well. This is helpful for users who wish to crush the capsule after heating has begun. In some cases, the filter material has an average melting point of at least about 160 °C, 170 °C, 180 °C, 190 °C or 200 °C.

In some cases, the filter material has an average thermal conductivity of at least 0.130 W/mK. The inventors have found that this helps the user to crush the capsule after heating has begun. In some cases, the filter material has an average thermal conductivity of at least 0.140 W/mK, 0.150 W/mK, or 0.160 W/mK.

In some cases, the filter may additionally include a wrapper surrounding other filter elements. The wrapper may include tobacco tipping paper.

In some cases, the capsule fills about 5-30% v/v of the filter. In some cases, the filter comprises 70-95% v/v of filter material, suitably cellulose acetate. The inventors have established that these ratios result in adequate heat absorption by the capsule.

In some cases, the filter is substantially cylindrical and the capsule is arranged substantially centrally to the diameter of the cylinder. In some cases, the capsule is arranged substantially centrally about the length of the cylinder. In some cases, the cylindrical filter can be about 8 to 14 mm, suitably 9 to 13 mm or 10 to 12 mm in length. The cylindrical filter may have a cross-sectional diameter of about 5 to 9 mm, suitably 7.5 to 8 mm. The cylindrical filter can be formed from cellulose acetate fibers.

In some cases, when the capsule is in an unbroken state, the pressure difference across the filter when the user inhales is in the range of 30 to 90 mmH ₂ O. Suitably, when the capsule is in an unbroken state, the pressure difference across the filter is about 30 mmH ₂ O, 33 mmH ₂ O, 35 mmH ₂ O, 38 mmH ₂ O or 40 mmH ₂ O to about 90 mmH ₂ O. , 75 mmH ₂ O, 65 mmH ₂ O, 60 mmH ₂ O, 55 mmH ₂ O or 50 mmH ₂ O. Illustratively, the pressure difference across the filter when the capsule is in an unbroken state may be in the range of about 35 to 60 mmH ₂ O, preferably 38 to 55 mmH ₂ O or 40 to 50 mmH ₂ O.

In some cases, the filter holds only one capsule. In other cases, the filter holds more than one capsule. When the filter includes a plurality of capsules, the individual capsules may be the same or different from each other. For example, a plurality of capsules may be provided to allow the user to select when/whether to destroy the capsule, thereby controlling the aerosol delivery profile.

In some cases, the aerosol-generating medium includes an aerosol-generating agent. In some cases, the aerosol-generating medium includes tobacco material. In some cases, the aerosol-generating medium includes a flavoring agent. In some cases, the aerosol-generating medium consists substantially of or consists of an aerosol-generating agent and/or a tobacco material and/or flavoring agent. In some cases, the aerosol-generating medium may be provided as a single integrated component. In other cases, the aerosol-generating medium may comprise separate sections containing different compositions. For example, the aerosol-generating medium can include an aerosol-generating agent and a tobacco material, which can be provided in separate and separate sections of the aerosol-generating medium.

In some embodiments, the capsule contains a flavoring agent and the aerosol-generating medium includes a flavoring agent, wherein in both cases the flavoring agent is substantially the same. This can provide a more consistent delivery of a flavor profile. In some cases, the capsule contains menthol and the aerosol-generating medium contains menthol.

As used herein, the term “tobacco material” refers to any material including tobacco or derivatives thereof. The term “tobacco material” may include one or more of tobacco, tobacco derivatives, puffed tobacco, reconstituted tobacco or tobacco substitutes. The tobacco material may include one or more of ground tobacco, tobacco fibers, cut tobacco, extruded tobacco, tobacco stems, reconstituted tobacco and/or tobacco extracts.

Cigarettes used to produce tobacco material are single grades or blends, cut rags or whole leaves, including Virginia and/or Burley and/or Oriental. Can be any suitable tobacco such as. The tobacco may also be tobacco particle'fines' or dust, expanded tobacco, stems, expanded stems, and other processed stem materials, such as cut rolled stems. The tobacco material may be ground tobacco or reconstituted tobacco material. The reconstituted tobacco material may comprise tobacco fibers and may be formed by casting, a Fourdrinier based paper type approach to re-adding tobacco extract, or extrusion.

As used herein, the term “aerosol generating agent” refers to an agent that promotes the generation of an aerosol. Aerosol-generating agents may promote the generation of aerosols by promoting initial vaporization and/or condensation of gases into inhalable solid and/or liquid aerosols.

Suitable aerosol generators include, but are not limited to: sorbitol, polyols, such as glycols such as glycerol and propylene glycol or triethylene glycol; Non-polyols such as monohydric alcohols, high boiling point hydrocarbons, acids such as lactic acid, glycerol derivatives, esters such as diacetin, triacetin, triethylene glycol diacetate, triethyl citrate or ethyl myristate (ethyl myristate) and myristates and aliphatic carboxylic acid esters including isopropyl myristate such as methyl stearate, dimethyl dodecanedioate and dimethyl tetradecanedioate. In some cases, the aerosol generating agent may include glycerol and/or propylene glycol.

In some cases, the aerosol-generating medium includes at least 10% by weight of an aerosol-generating agent based on the total weight of the aerosol-generating medium. Suitably, the aerosol-generating medium comprises at least 12%, 15%, 18% or 20% by weight of aerosol-generating agent based on the total weight of the aerosol-generating medium. The rest, in some cases, may be tobacco material.

In some cases, the non-combustible heated article may be substantially cylindrical.

In some cases, the non-combustible heating article may further include a cooling element. It can be arranged, for example, between the filter and the aerosol-generating medium. The cooling element, if present, separates the filter from the hottest (in use) portions of the non-combustible heating article. The cooling element, if present, may comprise a vacant tube, suitably formed of paper. The vaporizing components of the aerosol-generating medium can condense and, in use, form an aerosol in the cooling element, if present.

The non-combustible heating article may further include vent holes. These can be provided on the sidewall of the article. In some cases, vent holes may be provided in the filter and/or cooling element. These holes allow cool air to be drawn into the article during use, which mixes with the heated volatilized components to cool the aerosol accordingly.

Ventilation enhances the generation of heated volatile components visible from the article when the article is heated in use. The heated volatile components are made visible by the process of cooling the heated volatile components so that supersaturation of the heated volatile components occurs. The heated volatilized components then undergo droplet formation, otherwise known as nucleation, and eventually heated volatilization by further condensation of the heated volatilized components and by coagulation of newly formed droplets from the heated volatilized components. The size of the aerosol particles of the constituents increases.

In some cases, the ratio of cold air to the sum of heated volatilized components and cold air, known as the aeration rate, is at least 15%. A ventilation rate of 15% allows the heated volatile components to be visualized by the method described above. The visibility of the heated volatile components allows the user to discern that volatile components have occurred, adding to the sensory experience of the smoking experience.

In another example, the aeration rate is between 50% and 85% to provide additional cooling to the heated volatile components.

As used herein, the term “non-combustible heating assembly” refers to a combination of a non-combustible heating article and a heater. The heater heats the aerosol-generating medium of the non-combustible heated article without burning to volatilize the components of the substrate and generate an inhalable vapor or aerosol.

In some cases, the heater may be provided integrally with the article. For example, the heater may be a combustible fuel source attached to the article so that in use, the combustion of the fuel source heats the aerosol-generating medium without burning the medium. In another example, the heater may include a chemical heat source such as a phase change material that undergoes an exothermic reaction to generate heat when in use.

In other cases, the heater may be a separate entity configured for use with the article. For example, the heater can be a device into which a non-combustible heated article is at least partially inserted. In another example, the heater can be a device that is at least partially inserted into a non-combustible heating article. The heater can be electrically controlled. In some cases, the heater includes a thin film, an electric resistive heater, an induction heater, and the like.

In some cases, the assembly may be configured such that at least a portion of the aerosol-generating medium in the non-combustible heated article is exposed to a temperature of at least 180° C. or 200° C. for at least 50% of the heating period. In some examples, the aerosol-generating medium may be exposed to a thermal profile described in co-pending application PCT/EP2017/068804, the contents of which are incorporated herein in their entirety.

In some specific cases, a non-combustion heating assembly configured to separately heat two portions of an aerosol-generating medium is provided. By controlling the temperature of the first and second portions over time so that the temperature profiles of these portions are different, it is possible to control the puff profile of the aerosol during use. The heat provided to the two portions of the aerosol-generating medium can be provided at different times or rates; Staggering heating in this way can enable both rapid aerosol generation and extended service life.

In one particular example, the assembly may be configured such that at the onset of the consumption experience, the first heating element corresponding to the first portion of the aerosol-generating medium is immediately heated to a temperature of 240°C. This first heating element is held at 240° C. for 145 seconds, then drops to 135° C. (held here for the rest of the consumption experience). After 75 seconds after the consumption experience is initiated, the second heating element corresponding to the second portion of the aerosol-generating medium is heated to a temperature of 160°C. 135 seconds after the consumption experience is initiated, the temperature of the second heating element is raised to 240° C. (which is maintained for the rest of the consumption experience). The consumption experience lasts for 280 seconds, at which point both heaters are cooled to room temperature.

In some cases, the assembly is configured such that the filter of the non-combustible heating article is not heated directly. For example, in cases where the heater is a device into which the article is partially inserted, the assembly may be configured such that a filter of a non-combustible heated article is not inserted into the device.

In some specific cases, the assembly is configured such that the filter of the non-combustible heating article and, if present, the cooling element are not directly heated. For example, in cases where the heater is a device into which the article is partially inserted, the assembly may be configured such that a filter of a non-combustible heated article and, if present, a cooling element are not inserted into the device. In other cases, at least a portion of the cooling element may be inserted into the device.

In these cases, even if the filter is not heated directly, heat will be drawn through the non-combustible heated article during the consumption experience (when the user puffs). The inventors have established that the temperature profile of the center of the filter peaks at the time of each puff. This is because hot aerosol is sucked through the filter during puffing. In some cases, the filter (and capsule) may be exposed to temperatures in excess of about 30° C., 40° C., or 50° C. during use. In some cases, the maximum temperature the filter (and capsule) is exposed to in use is less than about 100° C., 90° C., 80° C., or 70° C. In some cases, the filter (and capsule) may be exposed to temperatures in the range of 30° C. to 100° C., suitably in the range of 40° C. to 80° C. or 50° C. to 70° C.

The inventors have established that the capsules specified in claim 1 are particularly suitable for use in non-combustible heated articles. Although capsules may, in some cases, be exposed to temperatures above the shell melting point or glass transition temperature, the capsules specified in claim 1 will be exposed to the conditions of a non-combustible heating assembly when compared to other capsules. It has been found to be less likely to break or rupture when. These capsules can be easily crushed by the user before heating is started, during heating or after heating is started to release their contents. During pulverization, a click sensation is maintained, providing tactile feedback that pulverization has been performed to the user. This click feel is useful because in this case the user knows that enough pressure has been applied and the capsule contents have been released. Therefore, there is less possibility of applying excessive pressure that may damage the non-combustible heated article.

Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed that the suitability of the capsules for use in the non-combustible heated articles described herein is due to the shell material composition and water absorption. Other factors that may be relevant include the heat capacity of the shell material, the melting point or glass transition temperature of the shell material, and/or the distance from the heater to the capsule.

In some cases, the capsule may be placed within the non-combustible heating article such that it is at least about 25 mm or at least about 30 mm from the heater in the non-combustible heating assembly. In some cases, the capsule may be placed within a non-combustible heated article such that it is about 25 to 30 mm or about 30 to 35 mm from the heater. (This distance refers to the distance from the center of the capsule to the nearest point of the heater.) This positioning may mean that the capsule is exposed to the appropriate heat level while ensuring that the non-combustible heated article has the appropriate dimensions.

Capsules formed from a shell material comprising carrageenan having a melting point of at least 30° C. or at least 40° C. have been found to withstand very well even when exposed to non-combustion heating conditions.

An example of a non-combustible heated article is illustrated in FIG. 1. The illustrated non-combustible heated article 10 has a substantially cylindrical shape. It may comprise a rod of the aerosol-generating medium 1 towards the first end 2, suitably a rod of tobacco material, and a filter 3 towards the second end 4. The second end 4 is a mouth end. The capsule 5 is placed in the filter 3. The filter 3 comprises a filter material, which may be cellulose acetate. The paper shroud 6 holds the components in a cylindrical configuration and provides a passage 7 between the tobacco rod 1 and the filter plug 3. The passage 7 functions as a cooling element and can be omitted in alternative embodiments. A shorter passage is shown between the filter plug 3 and the second end 4. This can also be omitted in alternative embodiments.

In use, the non-combustible heating article 10 is partially inserted into the heater of the non-combustible heating assembly (not shown) so that it can be heated to form an inhalable aerosol. In one embodiment, the heater forms an oven-type arrangement around the aerosol-generating medium. In some embodiments, the first end 2 of the non-combustible heating article 10 is inserted so that the aerosol-generating medium 1 is held within the heater. The non-combustible heating article 10 and the non-combustible heating assembly are configured such that at least a portion of the filter 3 and passage 7 are not within the heater.

In alternative embodiments, the substantially cylindrical non-combustible heating article may comprise an aerosol-generating medium 1 immediately adjacent to the filter 3. A passage may be provided on the opposite side of the filter to the medium, or there may be no connection passage.

After use, the non-combustible heated article is removed from the heater and is typically discarded. Subsequent use of the heater uses additional non-combustible heating articles.

An alternative non-combustion heating assembly is depicted in FIG. 2. In this assembly, a combustible heat source 8 is arranged adjacent to the aerosol-generating medium 1 at the first end 2 of the non-combustible heating article 10. The combustible heat source 8 can be separated from the aerosol-generating medium 1 by a non-combustible material (not shown) such as an aluminum foil layer. Aluminum foil or other conductive, non-combustible materials are useful as they (a) conduct heat to the aerosol-generating medium and (b) prevent the combustion of the fuel source causing combustion of the aerosol-generating medium. In use, the fuel source 8 is ignited by the user; Heat is conducted by means of aluminum foil (etc.) to the aerosol-generating medium 1 to volatilize the components of the medium 1 without combustion.

3 and 4, a partial cut-away cross-sectional view and perspective view of an example of a non-combustible heating article 101 are shown, similar to that shown in FIG. 1. Article 101 is adapted for use with a device having a power source and a heater. The article 101 of this embodiment is particularly suitable for use with the device 51 shown in Figs. 7-9 described below. In use, the article 101 may be removably inserted into the device shown in FIG. 7 at the insertion point 20 of the device 51.

An example article 101 is in the form of a substantially cylindrical rod comprising a body of aerosol-generating medium 103 and a filter assembly 105 in the form of a rod. The filter assembly 105 includes three segments, a cooling segment 107, a filter segment 109 and a mouth end segment 111. Article 101 has a first end 113, also known as a mouth end or a proximal end, and a second end 115, also known as a distal end. The body of the aerosol-generating medium 103 is positioned towards the distal end 115 of the article 101. In one example, the cooling segment 107 is located between the body of the aerosol-generating medium 103 and the filter segment 109 adjacent to the body of the aerosol-generating medium 103, so that the cooling segment 107 103) and the filter segment 109. In other examples, there may be a separation between the body of the aerosol-generating medium 103 and the cooling segment 107 and between the body of the aerosol-generating medium 103 and the filter segment 109. The filter segment 109 is located within between the cooling segment 107 and the mouth end segment 111. The mouth end segment 111 is positioned towards the proximal end 113 of the article 101, adjacent the filter segment 109. In one example, filter segment 109 is in abutting relationship with mouth end segment 111. In one embodiment, the total length of the filter assembly 105 is between 37 mm and 45 mm, and more preferably, the total length of the filter assembly 105 is 41 mm.

In one embodiment, the body of the aerosol-generating medium 103 comprises tobacco. However, in each of the other embodiments, the body of the aerosol-generating medium 103 may be composed of a cigarette, may be composed substantially entirely of tobacco, and other components such as tobacco and aerosol-generating and/or flavoring agents. Can include. In some cases, the aerosol-generating medium may be tobacco free.

In one example, the rod of the aerosol-generating medium 103 is between 34 mm and 50 mm in length, suitably between 38 mm and 46 mm in length, and preferably between 42 mm in length.

In one example, the total length of article 101 is between 71 mm and 95 mm, suitably between 79 mm and 87 mm, and suitably between 83 mm.

The axial end of the body of the aerosol-generating medium 103 is visible at the distal end 115 of the article 101. However, in other embodiments, the distal end 115 of the article 101 may include an end member (not shown) that covers the axial end of the body of the aerosol-generating medium 103.

The body of the aerosol-generating medium 103 is an annular tipping paper positioned substantially around the circumference of the filter assembly 105 to surround the filter assembly 105 and extending partially along the length of the body of the aerosol-generating medium 103 It is coupled to the filter assembly 105 by (not shown). In one example, the tipping paper is made of 58GSM standard tipping base paper. In one example, the tipping paper has a length of 42 mm to 50 mm, suitably 46 mm.

In one example, the cooling segment 107 is an annular tube and is positioned around to define an air gap within the cooling segment. The air gap provides a chamber through which the heated volatile components generated from the body of the aerosol-generating medium 103 flow. The cooling segment 107 is hollow to provide a chamber for aerosol accumulation, however, the axial compressive forces and bending moments that may occur during manufacture and during use while the article 101 is inserted into the device 51 It is stiff enough to withstand moments). In one example, the thickness of the walls of the cooling segment 107 is approximately 0.29 mm.

The cooling segment 107 provides a physical displacement between the aerosol-generating medium 103 and the filter segment 109. The physical displacement provided by the cooling segment 107 will provide a thermal gradient over the length of the cooling segment 107. In one example, the cooling segment 107 is at least 40 degrees Celsius between the heated volatilized component entering the first end of the cooling segment 107 and the heated volatilized component exiting the second end of the cooling segment 107. It is configured to provide a temperature difference in degrees. In one example, the cooling segment 107 is at least 60 degrees Celsius between the heated volatilized component entering the first end of the cooling segment 107 and the heated volatilized component exiting the second end of the cooling segment 107. It is configured to provide a temperature difference in degrees. This temperature difference over the length of the cooling element 107 protects the temperature sensitive filter segment 109 from the high temperatures of the aerosol-generating medium 103 when the aerosol-generating medium is heated by the device 51. If no physical displacement is provided between the filter segment 109 and the body of the aerosol-generating medium 103 and the heating elements of the device 51, the temperature sensitive filter segment 109 may be damaged in use, and therefore its necessary They may not be able to perform functions effectively.

In one example, the length of the cooling segment 107 is at least 15 mm. In one example, the length of the cooling segment 107 is 20 mm to 30 mm, more particularly 23 mm to 27 mm, more particularly 25 mm to 27 mm, suitably 25 mm.

The cooling segment 107 is made of paper, which means that when used adjacent to the heater of the device 51, it is constructed of a material that does not generate compounds of concern, such as, for example, toxic compounds. In one example, the cooling segment 107 is made of a spirally wound paper tube that provides a hollow interior chamber but maintains mechanical rigidity. Spiral wound paper tubes can meet the stringent dimensional accuracy requirements of high-speed manufacturing processes in terms of tube length, outer diameter, roundness and straightness.

In another example, the cooling segment 107 is a recess made of stiff plug wrap or tipping paper. The stiff plug wrap or tipping paper is manufactured to have sufficient stiffness to withstand the axial compressive forces and bending moments that may occur during manufacture and during use while the article 101 is inserted into the device 51.

The filter segment 109 may be formed of any filter material sufficient to remove one or more volatilized compounds from the heated volatilized components from the aerosol-generating medium. In one example, filter segment 109 is made of a mono-acetate material such as cellulose acetate. The filter segment 109 provides cooling and irritation reduction from the heated volatilized ingredients without depleting the amount of heated volatilized ingredients to an unsatisfactory level for the user.

A millable capsule 5 is provided in the filter segment 109. It can be disposed substantially centrally in the filter segment 109, across the filter segment 109 diameter and along the filter segment 109 length. In other cases, it may be offset by more than one dimension.

The density of the cellulose acetate tow material of the filter segment 109 controls the pressure drop across the filter segment 109, which in turn controls the resistance to aspiration of the article 101. Thus, the selection of the material of the filter segment 109 is important in controlling the suction resistance of the article 101. In addition, the filter segment performs a filtering function in the article 101.

In one example, filter segment 109 is made of an 8Y15 grade filter tow material that provides a filtering effect to the heated volatilized material while also reducing the size of condensed aerosol droplets generated by the heated volatilized material.

The presence of the filter segment 109 provides an insulating effect by providing additional cooling to the heated volatilized components exiting the cooling segment 107. This additional cooling effect reduces the contact temperature of the user lips on the surface of the filter segment 109.

In one example, filter segment 109 is 6 mm to 10 mm in length, suitably 8 mm.

The mouth end segment 111 is an annular tube, and is positioned around to define an air gap within the mouth end segment 111. The air gap provides a chamber for heated volatilized components flowing from the filter segment 109. The mouth end segment 111 is hollow to provide a chamber for aerosol accumulation, but is able to withstand axial compressive forces and bending moments that may occur during use during manufacture and while the article is inserted into the device 51. Is rigid enough. In one example, the thickness of the wall of the mouth end segment 111 is approximately 0.29 mm. In one example, the length of the mouth end segment 111 is 6 mm to 10 mm, suitably 8 mm.

The mouth end segment 111 can be made of a spirally wound paper tube that provides a hollow inner chamber but maintains critical mechanical stiffness. Spiral wound paper tubes can meet the stringent dimensional accuracy requirements of high-speed manufacturing processes in terms of tube length, outer diameter, roundness and straightness.

The mouth end segment 111 serves to prevent any liquid condensate accumulated at the outlet of the filter segment 109 from coming into direct contact with the user.

In one example, the mouth end segment 111 and the cooling segment 107 may be formed as a single tube, and the filter segment 109 is positioned within the corresponding tube separating the mouth end segment 111 and the cooling segment 107. You have to understand that it is.

5 and 6, a partial cutaway cross-sectional view and a perspective view of an example of an article 301 are shown. The reference symbols shown in Figs. 5 and 6 are equivalent to the reference symbols shown in Figs. 3 and 4, but increase by 200.

In the example of the article 301 shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, a vent area 317 is provided on the article 301 to allow air to flow from the outside of the article 301 to the interior of the article 301. In one example, ventilation region 317 takes the form of one or more ventilation holes 317 formed through an outer layer of article 301. Vent holes may be located in the cooling segment 307 to aid in cooling the article 301. In one example, the ventilation region 317 comprises one or more rows of holes, preferably each row of holes arranged in a circumferential direction around the article 301 in a cross section substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the article 301 do.

In one example, there are 1 to 4 rows of ventilation holes to provide ventilation for article 301. Each row of ventilation holes may have 12 to 36 ventilation holes 317. The ventilation holes 317 may have, for example, 100 to 500 μm in diameter. In one example, the axial separation distance between rows of vent holes 317 is 0.25 mm to 0.75 mm, suitably 0.5 mm.

In one example, the ventilation holes 317 have a uniform size. In another example, the vent holes 317 vary in size. Vent holes can be any suitable technique such as, for example, one or more of the following techniques: laser technique, mechanical perforation of cooling segment 307 or pre-perforation of cooling segment 307 prior to being formed in article 301 It can be prepared using. Vent holes 317 are positioned to provide effective cooling to article 301.

In one example, the rows of vent holes 317 are located at least 11 mm from the proximal end 313 of the article, suitably 17 mm to 20 mm from the proximal end 313 of the article 301. The positions of the vent holes 317 are positioned so that the user does not block the vent holes 317 when the article 301 is in use.

By providing rows of ventilation holes 17 mm to 20 mm from the proximal end 313 of the article 301, the article 301 will be completely inserted into the device 51, as can be seen in FIGS. 8 and 9. At this time, the ventilation holes 317 may be located outside the device 51. By positioning the vent holes outside the device, un-heated air can enter the article 301 through the vent holes from outside the device 51 to aid in cooling the article 301.

The length of the cooling segment 307 is such that the cooling segment 307 can be partially inserted into the device 51 when the article 301 is fully inserted into the device 51. The length of the cooling segment 307 is a first function of providing a physical gap between the heater arrangement of the device 51 and the heat sensitive filter arrangement 309 and the article 301 will be completely inserted into the device 51. When, while also being located outside of the device 51, it provides a second function that allows the ventilation holes 317 to be located in the cooling segment. As can be seen in FIGS. 8 and 9, most of the cooling element 307 is located within the device 51. However, there is a portion of the cooling element 307 that extends out of the device 51. Vent holes 317 are located in this part of the cooling element 307 extending out of the device 51.

Referring now in more detail to FIGS. 7-9, of a device 51 that is typically arranged to heat an aerosol-generating medium to volatilize at least one component of the aerosol-generating medium to form an inhalable aerosol. An example is shown. Device 51 is a heating device that releases compounds by heating the aerosol-generating medium but not burning it.

The first end 53 is sometimes referred to herein as the mouth or proximal end 53 of the device 51, and the second end 55 is sometimes referred to herein as the distal end 55 of the device 51. The device 51 has an on/off button 57 that allows the entire device 51 to be switched on and off as desired by the user.

Device 51 includes a housing 59 for positioning and protecting various internal components of device 51. In the illustrated example, the housing 59 generally includes a top panel 17 defining the'top' of the device 51 and a bottom panel 19 defining generally the'bottom' of the device 51. ) Covered with a uni-body sleeve 11 surrounding the circumference of the device 51. In another example, the housing includes a front panel, a rear panel and a pair of opposing side panels in addition to the top panel 17 and the bottom panel 19.

The top panel 17 and/or the bottom panel 19 can be removably fixed to the uni-body sleeve 11 to allow easy access to the interior of the device 51, or, for example, It can be "permanently" fixed to the uni-body sleeve 11 to prevent a user from accessing the interior of the device 51. In one example, the panels 17 and 19 are made of a plastic material including glass-filled nylon formed, for example by injection molding, and the uni-body sleeve 11 is made of aluminum, but other materials and Other manufacturing processes can be used.

The top panel 17 of the device 51 has an opening 20 at the mouth end 53 of the device 51, through which, in use, articles 101, 301 containing an aerosol-generating medium It can be inserted into the device 51 and can be removed from the device 51 by a user.

The housing 59 has a heater arrangement 23, a control circuit 25 and a power supply 27 located therein or fixed therein. In this example, the heater arrangement 23, the control circuit 25 and the power supply 27 are laterally adjacent (i.e., as viewed from the end), and the control circuit 25 is generally a heater arrangement 23 ) And the power supply 27, but other locations are possible.

Control circuit 25 may include a controller, such as a microprocessor arrangement, configured and arranged to control heating of the aerosol-generating medium in articles 101 and 301, as discussed further below. have.

The power source 27 may be, for example, a battery, which may be a rechargeable battery or a non-rechargeable battery. Examples of suitable batteries include, for example, lithium-ion batteries, nickel batteries (such as nickel-cadmium batteries), alkaline batteries, and the like. . The battery 27 is to heat the aerosol-generating medium in the article (as discussed, to volatilize the aerosol-generating medium without burning the aerosol-generating medium) to supply electrical power as needed under the control of the control circuit 25. It is electrically coupled to the heater arrangement 23.

The advantage of locating the power supply 27 laterally adjacent to the heater arrangement 23 is that a physically large power supply 25 can be used without making the device 51 as a whole too long. As will be appreciated, a physically larger power supply 25 generally has a higher capacity (i.e., the total electrical energy that can be supplied, often measured in Amp-hours, etc.), and thus battery life for the device 51 Can be longer.

In one example, the heater arrangement 23 is generally in the form of a hollow cylindrical tube and has a hollow internal heating chamber 29 that is inserted for heating when the articles 101 and 301 containing the aerosol-generating medium are in use. . Different arrangements for the heater arrangement 23 are possible. For example, the heater arrangement 23 may comprise a single heating element or may be formed of a plurality of heating elements arranged along the longitudinal axis of the heater arrangement 23. The heating element or each heating element may be annular or tubular, or may be at least partially annular or partially tubular around its circumference. In one example, the heating element or each heating element may be a thin film heater. In another example, the heating element or each heating element can be made of a ceramic material. Examples of suitable ceramic materials include alumina and aluminum nitride and silicon nitride ceramics that can be laminated and sintered. Other heating arrangements are possible, including for example induction heating, infrared heater elements that heat by emitting infrared radiation, or resistive heating elements formed by, for example, a resistive electrical winding.

In one specific example, the heater arrangement 23 is supported by a stainless steel support tube and comprises a polyimide heating element. The heater arrangement 23 comprises substantially the entire body of the aerosol-generating medium 103, 303 of the articles 101, 301 when the articles 101, 301 are inserted into the device 51. It is dimensioned to be inserted into.

The heating element or each heating element may be arranged such that selected regions of the aerosol-generating medium can be heated independently, for example, one after the other (over time, as discussed above) or together (simultaneously) as desired. have.

In this example the heater arrangement 23 is surrounded along at least part of its length by a thermal insulator 31. The insulator 31 helps to reduce the heat transferred from the heater arrangement 23 to the outside of the device 51. This generally helps to lower the power requirements for the heater arrangement 23 as it reduces heat loss. The insulator 31 also helps to keep the exterior of the device 51 cool during operation of the heater arrangement 23. In one example, the insulator 31 may be a double wall sleeve that provides a low pressure region between the two walls of the sleeve. That is, the insulator 31 may be, for example, a “vacuum” tube, that is, a tube that has been at least partially evacuated to minimize heat transfer by conduction and/or convection. In addition to or instead of the double wall sleeve, other arrangements for the insulator 31 are possible, including, for example, the use of insulating materials comprising a suitable foam-type material.

The housing 59 may further include various internal support structures 37 for supporting not only the heating arrangement 23, but all internal components.

The device 51 extends around the opening 20 and is located between the collar 33 and one end of the vacuum sleeve 31 and a collar 33 protruding from it into the interior of the housing 59. It further includes a generally tubular chamber 35. The chamber 35 is in this example a cooling structure comprising a plurality of cooling fins 35f spaced along the outer surface of the chamber 35 and each arranged in a circumferential direction around the outer surface of the chamber 35 (35f) is further included. When inserted in the device 51 over at least a portion of the length of the hollow chamber 35, there is an air gap 36 between the hollow chamber 35 and the articles 101, 301. The air gap 36 is around the entire circumference of the articles 101, 301 over at least a portion of the cooling segment 307.

The collar 33 includes a plurality of ridges 60 arranged circumferentially around the periphery of the opening 20 and protruding into the opening 20. The ridges 60 are opened so that the open span of the opening 20 at the positions of the ridges 60 is smaller than the open span of the opening 20 at the positions without the ridges 60. (20) take up space within. The ridges 60 are configured to engage the articles 101 and 301 inserted into the device to help secure the article within the device 51. Adjacent pairs of ridges 60 and open spaces (not shown in the figures) defined by articles 101 and 301 form ventilation paths around the exterior of articles 101 and 301. These ventilation paths allow hot vapors exiting the device 51 from the articles 101 and 301 and allow cooling air to flow from the air gap 36 into the device 51 around the articles 101 and 301. Allow that.

In operation, the articles 101, 301 are removably inserted into the insertion point 20 of the device 51, as shown in FIGS. 7-9. Referring particularly to FIG. 8, in one example, the body of the aerosol-generating medium 103, 303, which is positioned toward the distal ends 115, 315 of the articles 101, 301, is a heater arrangement 23 of the device 51. ) Completely contained within. The proximal ends 113 and 313 of the articles 101 and 301 extend from the device 51 and act as a mouthpiece assembly for the user.

In operation, the heater arrangement 23 will heat the articles 101, 301 to volatilize at least one component of the aerosol-generating medium from the body of the aerosol-generating medium 103, 303.

The primary flow path for the heated volatile components from the body of the aerosol-generating medium 103, 303 is axially through the articles 101, 301, the chambers inside the cooling segments 107, 307, the filter segments ( 109, 309, and extends to the user through mouth end segments 111, 313. In one example, the temperature of the heated volatile components generated from the body of the aerosol-generating medium is between 60° C. and 250° C., which may exceed the inhalation temperature acceptable to the user. As the heated volatile components travel through the cooling segments 107, 307, they will cool, and some volatile components will condense on the inner surfaces of the cooling segments 107, 307.

In the examples of article 301 shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, cold air may enter the cooling segment 307 through vent holes 317 formed in the cooling segment 307. This cold air will mix with the heated volatilized ingredients, providing additional cooling to the heated volatilized ingredients.

Ventilation enhances the generation of heated volatile components visible from article 317 when the article is heated in use by device 51. The heated volatile components are visualized by a process of cooling the heated volatile components such that supersaturation of the heated volatile components occurs. Then, the heated volatilized components undergo droplet formation, otherwise known as nucleation, and eventually heated volatilization by further condensation of the heated volatilized components and by coagulation of newly formed droplets from the heated volatilized components. The size of the aerosol particles of the constituents increases.

In one embodiment, the ratio of cold air to the sum of heated volatilized components and cold air, known as the aeration rate, is at least 15%. A ventilation rate of 15% allows the heated volatile components to be visualized by the method described above. The visibility of the heated volatile components allows the user to discern that volatile components have occurred, adding to the sensory experience of the smoking experience.

In another example, the aeration rate is between 50% and 85% to provide additional cooling to the heated volatile components.

As used herein, the terms “flavour” and “flavourant” are used to create a desired taste or aroma in a product for adult consumers, if local regulations permit. Refers to materials that can be used. These are extracts (e.g. licorice, hydrangea, Japanese white bark magnolia leaf, chamomile, fenugreek, clove, menthol, Japanese mint) , Aniseed, cinnamon, herb, wintergreen, cherry, berry, peach, apple, drambuie, bourbon, scotch scotch, whiskey, spearmint, peppermint, lavender, cardamom, celery, cascarilla, nutmeg, sandalwood ), bergamot, geranium, honey essence, rose oil, vanilla, lemon oil, orange oil, cassia , Caraway, cognac, jasmine, ylang-ylang, sage, fennel, bell pepper, ginger, anise, coriander, Coffee, or mint oil from any species of genus Mentha), flavor enhancers, bitterness receptor site blockers, sensorial receptor site activators ) Or stimulators, sugars and/or sugar substitutes (e.g., sucralose, acesulfame potassium, aspartame, saccharine, cyclamat) es), lactose, sucrose, glucose, fructose, sorbitol or mannitol), and charcoal, chlorophyll, minerals, botanicals ) Or other additives such as breath freshening agents. These may be artificial, synthetic or natural ingredients or blends thereof. They can be in any suitable form, for example oil, liquid or powder.

In order to eliminate any doubt that the term “comprises” herein is used to define the invention or features of the invention, the invention or feature is “consisting essentially of” or “consisting of” instead of “comprising”. Also disclosed are embodiments that may be defined using the terms.

The above embodiments should be understood as illustrative examples of the present invention. Further embodiments of the invention are envisaged. Any feature described in connection with any one embodiment may be used alone or in combination with other features described, and also one or more features of any other embodiment, or one of the embodiments. It should be understood that it may be used in combination with any combination of any other embodiments. Further, equivalents and modifications not described above may also be used without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.

The various embodiments described herein are presented merely to help and teach an understanding of the claimed features. These embodiments are provided only as representative samples of the embodiments, and are not limited thereto and/or are not exclusive. The advantages, embodiments, examples, functions, features, structures, and/or other aspects described herein are as limitations on the scope of the invention as defined by the claims, or to equivalents of the claims. It should not be considered as limitations, and it should be understood that other embodiments may be utilized, and variations may be made without departing from the scope of the claimed invention. Various embodiments of the present invention may suitably include, or may include appropriate combinations of disclosed elements, components, features, parts, steps, means, etc. other than those specifically described herein. It may be configured, or they may be included as an essential component (consist in essence of). Further, the present disclosure may include other inventions that are not currently claimed but may be claimed in the future.

Claims (24)

As a heat-not-burn article,
The non-combustible heating article comprises an aerosol generating medium and a filter, the filter holding one or more crushable capsules,
In use, the aerosol-generating medium is heated without burning, and the capsule is exposed to a temperature of about 30 to 100° C., and its structural integrity is not impaired during the exposure, so that the capsule is heated before, during heating. Or which can be crushed by the user after heating,
Non-combustible heating article. The method of claim 1,
In use, the aerosol-generating medium generates a moist aerosol, and the capsule is exposed to at least 12 mg of water,
Non-combustible heating article. The method according to claim 1 or 2,
The capsule has a core-shell structure, the core contains a liquid, the shell encapsulates the core, and
The shell contains 5 to 90% by weight of a gelling agent based on the total capsule shell weight,
The gelling agent comprises carrageenan,
Non-combustible heating article. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3,
The aerosol-generating medium comprises an aerosol-generating agent,
Non-combustible heating article. The method of claim 4,
The aerosol-generating medium comprises at least 10% by weight of an aerosol-generating agent based on the total weight of the aerosol-generating medium,
Non-combustible heating article. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5,
The aerosol-generating medium comprises tobacco material,
Non-combustible heating article. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 6,
The aerosol-generating medium comprises an aerosol-generating agent and a tobacco material, which may be provided in the same portion of the aerosol-generating medium or in separate sections of the aerosol-generating medium,
Non-combustible heating article. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 7,
The one or more capsules fill about 5-30% v/v of the filter,
Non-combustible heating article. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 8,
The filter comprises 70 to 95% v/v of filter material,
Non-combustible heating article. The method of claim 9,
The filter material has an average melting point of at least about 150° C.,
Non-combustible heating article. The method of claim 9 or 10,
The filter material has an average thermal conductivity of at least 0.130 W/mK,
Non-combustible heating article. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 11,
The filter further comprises a wrapper surrounding other filter elements,
Non-combustible heating article. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 12,
The capsule(s) shell contains 5 to 60% by weight of carrageenan as a gelling agent based on the total capsule shell weight,
Non-combustible heating article. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 13,
The capsule(s) shell contains 10 to 35% by weight of carrageenan as a gelling agent based on the total capsule shell,
Non-combustible heating article. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 14,
The capsule(s) shell further comprises a carbohydrate such as a plasticizer and/or starch,
Non-combustible heating article. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 15,
The one or more capsules have a crushing strength of about 0.8 kp to about 3.5 kp, suitably about 1.0 kp to about 2.5 kp before heating is initiated,
Non-combustible heating article. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 16,
The capsule(s) core contains a flavoring agent,
Non-combustible heating article. A non-combustible heating assembly comprising a non-combustible heating article and a heater according to any one of the preceding claims. The method of claim 18,
The one or more capsules are disposed at least about 25 mm away from the heater,
Non-combustion heating assembly. The method of claim 18 or 19,
Wherein the heater comprises a combustible fuel source, the combustible fuel source being arranged such that upon ignition, the fuel source heats but does not burn the aerosol-generating medium of the non-combustible heated article,
Non-combustion heating assembly. The method of claim 18 or 19,
The heater is a device into which the non-combustible heating article is at least partially inserted so that the aerosol-generating medium is heated but not burned in use,
Non-combustion heating assembly. The method according to any one of claims 18 to 21,
The one or more capsules are configured to be exposed to a temperature of about 30 to 100 ℃,
Non-combustion heating assembly. The method of claim 22,
The one or more capsules are configured to be exposed to a temperature of about 40 to 90 °C,
Non-combustion heating assembly. The method according to any one of claims 18 to 23,
Configured to expose the aerosol-forming medium to at least 200° C. for at least 50% of the heating period,
Non-combustion heating assembly.

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