KR20220160623A - Aerosol-generating article comprising a mouthpiece assembly - Google Patents

Abstract

An aerosol-generating article 112 is provided for generating an inhalable aerosol upon heating. The aerosol-generating article 112 includes: a mouthpiece assembly 110 comprising a first tube 118, a second tube 120 and a third tube 122; and an aerosol-forming substrate 142 . The first pipe 118 abuts the downstream end face 130 of the second pipe 120, and the third pipe 122 abuts the upstream end face 128 of the second pipe 120. The inner diameter 138 of the second pipe 120 is smaller than the inner diameter 136 of the first pipe 118. The inner diameter 138 of the second pipe 120 is smaller than the inner diameter 140 of the third pipe 122. The inner diameter 136 of the first tube 118 is 3 mm to 8 mm. The ratio of the inner diameter 136 of the first tube 118 to the inner diameter 138 of the second tube 120 is 1.2 to 5. The ratio of the inner diameter 136 of the first tube 118 to the inner diameter 140 of the third tube 122 is 0.5 to 2.

Description

Aerosol-generating article comprising a mouthpiece assembly

The present invention relates to an aerosol-generating article comprising a mouthpiece assembly.

Some aerosol-generating articles heat rather than burn an aerosol-generating substrate, such as a tobacco-containing substrate. In such aerosol-generating articles, the aerosol is via heat transfer from a heat source, in contact with the heat source, to a physically separate aerosol-generating substrate or material, which may be located within, around, or downstream of the heat source. may occur. During use of the aerosol-generating article, heat is transferred from the heat source to the aerosol-generating substrate capable of releasing volatile compounds. These volatile compounds are entrained in the air drawn through the aerosol-generating article by the user. As the released volatile compounds cool, they condense to form an aerosol. The aerosol can be inhaled through the mouthpiece by the user.

It would be desirable to provide an aerosol-generating article that allows for greater condensation of the released volatile compounds, which can provide increased flow of aerosol through the mouthpiece. This can provide a better user experience.

An aerosol-generating article is provided for generating an inhalable aerosol upon heating. An aerosol-generating article may include a mouthpiece assembly. The mouthpiece assembly may include a first tube. The mouthpiece assembly may include a second tube. The mouthpiece assembly may include a third tube. An aerosol-generating article may include an aerosol-forming substrate. The first tube may abut the downstream end face of the second tube. The third tube may abut the upstream end face of the second tube. The inner diameter of the second pipe may be smaller than the inner diameter of the first pipe. The inner diameter of the second pipe may be smaller than that of the third pipe. The inner diameter of the first tube may be at least 3 mm.

An aerosol-generating article is provided for generating an inhalable aerosol when heated, the aerosol-generating article comprising: a mouthpiece assembly comprising a first tube, a second tube and a third tube; and an aerosol-forming substrate, wherein the first tube abuts the downstream end face of the second tube and the third tube abuts the upstream end face of the second tube; the inner diameter of the second tube is smaller than the inner diameter of the first tube; an inner diameter of the second tube is smaller than an inner diameter of the third tube; The inner diameter of the first tube is at least 3 mm.

Also provided is an aerosol-generating system comprising an aerosol-generating device and an aerosol-generating article comprising: a mouthpiece assembly comprising a first tube, a second tube and a third tube; and an aerosol-forming substrate, wherein the first tube abuts the downstream end face of the second tube and the third tube abuts the upstream end face of the second tube; the inner diameter of the second tube is smaller than the inner diameter of the first tube; an inner diameter of the second tube is smaller than an inner diameter of the third tube; The inner diameter of the first tube is at least 3 mm.

An aerosol-generating article comprising a mouthpiece assembly formed of a plurality of tubes, the second tube having a narrower diameter than the first and third tubes, can increase the amount of aerosol that can be drawn from the aerosol-generating article. This increased amount of aerosol can improve the user's experience.

Aerosol formation, particularly droplet size, depends on a number of factors such as temperature and air pressure.

During use of the aerosol-generating article, volatile compounds within the aerosol-forming substrate evaporate, for example by thermal evaporation. The vapor cools and nucleates to form an aerosol. As the user inhales at the downstream end of the aerosol-generating article, air is drawn toward the downstream end and the moving air entrains the aerosol and evaporated volatile compounds.

In a conventional aerosol-generating article, the aerosol will flow directly out of the downstream end of the aerosol-generating article and then be inhaled by the user. However, in aerosol-generating articles according to the present invention, the narrower diameter of the second tube constricts the flow of air as it passes through the mouthpiece assembly. That is, the second tube provides a venturi effect. When air with the entrained aerosol is drawn out of the second tube into the first tube, the wider diameter of the first tube causes the air to expand and cool, which can cause more droplets to form in the aerosol. As with conventional aerosol-generating articles, the aerosol is then inhaled by the user through the downstream end of the first tube.

Accordingly, the aerosol-generating article may provide an increased amount of aerosol droplets, providing an improved user experience.

Also, since the first tube has a larger diameter than the second tube, the resulting aerosol expansion can improve the user's perception of filling.

Additionally, forming a mouthpiece assembly from a series of tubes may provide a number of additional advantages.

First, handling of the aerosol-generating article may be improved because the first tube, second tube, and third tube may provide increased firmness compared to, for example, a paper shell.

Second, aerosol-generating articles may be easy to manufacture because it is relatively simple to machine a plurality of tubes and then assemble the tubes together.

Third, the use of multiple tubes provides increased flexibility in terms of inner diameter and length.

The term “aerosol-generating article” is used herein to refer to an article in which an aerosol-generating substrate is heated to create an inhalable aerosol and deliver it to a consumer. As used herein, the term "aerosol-forming substrate" refers to a substrate capable of releasing volatile compounds when heated to generate an aerosol.

Conventional cigarettes are lit when a user applies a flame to one end of the cigarette and draws air through the other end. The local heat provided by the flame and the oxygen in the air drawn through the cigarette causes the end of the cigarette to ignite, and the resulting combustion produces inhalable smoke. In contrast, in a heated aerosol-generating article, an aerosol is generated by heating a flavor generating substrate, such as a cigarette. Known heated aerosol-generating articles include, for example, electrically heated aerosol-generating articles and aerosol-generating articles in which an aerosol is generated by heat transfer to an aerosol-forming material physically separated from a combustible fuel element or heat source. For example, aerosol-generating articles according to the present invention find particular application in aerosol-generating systems comprising electrically heated aerosol-generating devices having internal heater blades adapted to be inserted within a rod of an aerosol-generating substrate. Aerosol-generating articles of this type are described in the prior art, for example EP 081212670.

As used herein, the term “aerosol-generating device” refers to a device that includes a heater element that interacts with an aerosol-forming substrate of an aerosol-generating article to generate an aerosol.

As used herein, the term “longitudinal axis” refers to the direction corresponding to the major longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating article that extends between the upstream and downstream ends of the aerosol-generating article. As used herein, the terms “upstream” and “downstream” describe the relative position of an element, or portion of an element, of an aerosol-generating article with respect to the direction in which an aerosol is transported through the aerosol-generating article during use.

As used herein, the term “bordering” is used to describe an element, or a portion of a component, that is in direct contact with another component, or portion of a component.

The mouthpiece assembly may be positioned toward the downstream end of the aerosol-generating article. The mouthpiece assembly may be positioned at the downstream end of the aerosol-generating article.

At least one of the first tube, the second tube, and the third tube may be a cellulose acetate tube. That is, at least one of the first tube, the second tube, and the third tube may be formed of cellulose acetate. For example, the first tube may be a cellulose acetate tube. The second tube may be a cellulose acetate tube. The third tube may be a cellulose acetate tube.

Cellulose acetate tubes may alternatively be referred to as “hollow acetate tubes” or HATs.

Advantageously, forming the first tube from cellulose acetate can further improve the stiffness and elasticity of the mouthpiece assembly, which improves the user experience. Additionally, since cellulose acetate is substantially impermeable to water, forming the first tube from cellulose acetate may result in a mouthpiece assembly that is less sensitive to the humidity of a user's mouth.

The aerosol-generating article may include a fourth tube. The fourth tube may be positioned within the opening defined by the third tube. The fourth tube may be located within the third tube. The third tube may surround the fourth tube. The fourth tube may line the inner surface of the third tube.

The fourth tube may be formed of a substantially non-porous material. For example, the fourth tube may be formed from cardboard.

Advantageously, the fourth tube can ensure that the largest portion of the aerosol flows along the longitudinal axis towards the second and third tubes and does not flow radially through the surrounding material of the third tube.

The aerosol-generating article may include a wrapper. A wrapper may be provided on an exterior surface area of the mouthpiece assembly. A wrapper may be provided on the outer surface areas of the first tube, the second tube and the third tube. A wrapper may be provided on the outer surface area of the aerosol-generating article. The wrapper may be formed from a non-porous material. In one example, the wrapper is formed from cellulose acetate paper.

Advantageously, when the aerosol-generating article includes a wrapper, radial airflow through the first, second and third tubes may be reduced. Reduction of the radial airflow through the first, second and third tubes can increase the flow rate of the aerosol out of the mouthpiece.

The ratio of the inner diameter of the first tube to the inner diameter of the second tube may range from 1.2 to 5. The ratio of the inner diameter of the first tube to the inner diameter of the second tube may be 1.4 to 4. The ratio of the inner diameter of the first tube to the inner diameter of the second tube may be 1.6 to 3. The ratio of the inner diameter of the first tube to the inner diameter of the second tube may be 1.8 to 2.5.

The ratio of the inner diameter of the first tube to the inner diameter of the second tube may be 2.

In some examples, the ratio of the inner diameter of the first tube to the inner diameter of the second tube is a trade-off. Advantageously, maximizing this ratio can improve the swelling effect of the aerosol, which can improve the user's experience. However, if this ratio is too high, then the resistance to draw of the second tube may be too high, which makes the aerosol-generating device too difficult to use.

The ratio of the inner diameter of the first tube to the inner diameter of the third tube may be 0.5 to 2. The ratio of the inner diameter of the first tube to the inner diameter of the third tube may be 0.7 to 1.3. The ratio of the inner diameter of the first tube to the inner diameter of the third tube may be 0.8 to 1.2. The ratio of the inner diameter of the first tube to the inner diameter of the third tube may be 0.9 to 1.1. The ratio of the inner diameter of the first tube to the inner diameter of the third tube may be 0.95 to 1.05.

The ratio of the inner diameter of the first pipe to the inner diameter of the third pipe may be 1.

The ratio of the inner diameter of the third tube to the inner diameter of the second tube may be 1.2 to 5. The ratio of the inner diameter of the third tube to the inner diameter of the third tube may be 1.4 to 4. The ratio of the inner diameter of the third tube to the inner diameter of the third tube may be 1.6 to 3. The ratio of the inner diameter of the third tube to the inner diameter of the third tube may be between 1.8 and 2.5.

The ratio of the inner diameter of the third tube to the inner diameter of the second tube may be 2.

In some examples, the ratio of the inner diameter of the third tube to the inner diameter of the second tube is a trade-off. Advantageously, maximizing this ratio can improve the venturi effect of the mouthpiece assembly, which can improve nucleation. However, if this ratio is too high, then the resistance to draw of the second tube may be too high, which makes the aerosol-generating device too difficult to use. Additionally or alternatively, if this ratio is too high, then the wall thickness of the third tube may be too low, making handling of the aerosol-generating article difficult.

The first tube may be located downstream of the second tube. The first tube may be located downstream of the third tube. The first tube may be located at the downstream end of the mouthpiece assembly.

A longitudinal cross-sectional shape of the first tube may be circular. A longitudinal cross-sectional shape of the first tube may be an annular shape.

The first tube may have a uniform inner diameter. That is, the inner diameter of the first tube may be the same along its entire length.

In the example of a first tube having a uniform inner diameter, the inner diameter of the first tube is considered to be the fixed diameter of the first tube.

Alternatively, the first tube may have a varying inner diameter. That is, the inner diameter of the first tube may vary along its length. For example, the inner diameter of the first tube may increase from one end to the other. The inner diameter of the first tube may decrease from one end to the other.

In certain instances, the inner diameter of the first tube may increase from an upstream end of the first tube to a downstream end of the first tube. That is, the inner diameter of the first pipe at its downstream end is larger than the inner diameter of the first pipe at its upstream end. Advantageously, this "funneling out" of the inner diameter of the first tube improves the taste of the aerosol.

In the example of a first tube having a varying inner diameter, the inner diameter of the first tube is considered to be the average diameter of the first tube.

The inner diameter of the first pipe may be larger than that of the third pipe.

Advantageously, the inner diameter of the first tube which is larger than the inner diameter of the third tube can further improve the user's perception of filling.

The first tube may have an inner diameter of at least 3 mm. The first tube may have an inner diameter of at least 3.25 mm. The first tube may have an inner diameter of at least 3.5 mm. The first tube may have an inner diameter of at least 3.75 mm. The first tube may have an inner diameter of at least 4 mm. The first tube may have an inner diameter of at least 4.25 mm. The first tube may have an inner diameter of at least 4.5 mm. The first tube may have an inner diameter of at least 4.75 mm. The first tube may have an inner diameter of at least 5 mm.

The first tube may have an inner diameter of 8 mm or less. The first tube may have an inner diameter of 7.75 mm or less. The first tube may have an inner diameter of 7.5 mm or less. The first tube may have an inner diameter of 7.25 mm or less. The first tube may have an inner diameter of 7 mm or less. The first tube may have an inner diameter of 6.75 mm or less. The first tube may have an inner diameter of 6.5 mm or less. The first tube may have an inner diameter of 6.25 mm or less. The first tube may have an inner diameter of 6 mm or less. The first tube may have an inner diameter of 5.75 mm or less. The first tube may have an inner diameter of 5.5 mm or less. The first tube may have an inner diameter of 5.25 mm or less. The first tube may have an inner diameter of 5 mm or less. The first tube may have an inner diameter of 4.75 mm or less. The first tube may have an inner diameter of 4.5 mm or less. The first tube may have an inner diameter of 4.25 mm or less. The first tube may have an inner diameter of 4 mm or less.

The first tube may have an inner diameter of 3 mm to 8 mm. The first tube may have an inner diameter of 3.25 mm to 8 mm. The first tube may have an inner diameter of 3.5 mm to 8 mm. The first tube may have an inner diameter of 3.75 mm to 8 mm. The first tube may have an inner diameter of 4 mm to 8 mm. The first tube may have an inner diameter of 4.25 mm to 5 mm. The first tube may have an inner diameter of 4.5 mm to 8 mm. The first tube may have an inner diameter of 4.75 mm to 8 mm. The first tube may have an inner diameter of 5 mm to 8 mm.

The first tube may have an inner diameter of 3 mm to 7.75 mm. The first tube may have an inner diameter of 3 mm to 7.5 mm. The first tube may have an inner diameter of 3 mm to 7.25 mm. The first tube may have an inner diameter of 3 mm to 7 mm. The first tube may have an inner diameter of 3 mm to 6.75 mm. The first tube may have an inner diameter of 3 mm to 6.5 mm. The first tube may have an inner diameter of 3 mm to 6.25 mm. The first tube may have an inner diameter of 3 mm to 6 mm. The first tube may have an inner diameter of 3 mm to 5.75 mm. The first tube may have an inner diameter of 3 mm to 5.5 mm. The first tube may have an inner diameter of 3 mm to 5.25 mm. The first tube may have an inner diameter of 3 mm to 5 mm. The first tube may have an inner diameter of 3 mm to 4.75 mm. The first tube may have an inner diameter of 3 mm to 4.5 mm. The first tube may have an inner diameter of 3 mm to 4.25 mm. The first tube may have an inner diameter of 3 mm to 4 mm.

The first tube may have an inner diameter of 3.3 mm to 6 mm. The first tube may have an inner diameter of 3.4 mm to 5.5 mm. The first tube may have an inner diameter of 3.5 mm to 5 mm. The first tube may have an inner diameter of 3.6 mm to 4.75 mm. The first tube may have an inner diameter of 3.7 mm to 4.5 mm. The first tube may have an inner diameter of 3.9 mm to 4.25 mm.

In one embodiment, the first tube has an inside diameter of 4 mm.

The first tube may have a length of at least 4 mm. The first tube may have a length of at least 4.25 mm. The first tube may have a length of at least 4.5 mm. The first tube may have a length of at least 4.75 mm. The first tube may have a length of at least 5 mm. The first tube may have a length of at least 5.25 mm. The first tube may have a length of at least 5.5 mm. The first tube may have a length of at least 5.75 mm. The first tube may have a length of at least 6 mm.

The first tube may have a length of 6 mm or less. The first tube may have a length of 5.75 mm or less. The first tube may have a length of 5.5 mm or less. The first tube may have a length of 5.25 mm or less. The first tube may have a length of 5 mm or less. The first tube may have a length of 4.75 mm or less. The first tube may have a length of 4.5 mm or less. The first tube may have a length of 4.25 mm or less.

The heating element may have a length of 4 mm to 6 mm. The first tube may have a length of 4.25 mm to 6 mm. The first tube may have a length of 4.5 mm to 6 mm. The first tube may have a length of 4.75 mm to 6 mm. The first tube may have a length of 5 mm to 6 mm. The first tube may have a length of 5.25 mm to 6 mm. The first tube may have a length of 5.5 mm to 6 mm. The first tube may have a length of 5.75 mm to 6 mm.

The first tube may have a length of 4 mm to 5.75 mm. The first tube may have a length of 4 mm to 5.5 mm. The first tube may have a length of 4 mm to 5.25 mm. The first tube may have a length of 4 mm to 5 mm. The first tube may have a length of 4 mm to 4.75 mm. The first tube may have a length of 4 mm to 4.5 mm. The first tube may have a length of 4 mm to 4.25 mm.

The first tube may have a length of 4.25 mm to 5.75 mm. The first tube may have a length of 4.25 mm to 5.5 mm. The first tube may have a length of 4.5 mm to 5.75 mm. The first tube may have a length of 4.5 mm to 5.5 mm. The first tube may have a length of 4.75 mm to 5.5 mm. The first tube may have a length of 4.5 mm to 5.25 mm. The first tube may have a length of 4.75 mm to 5.25 mm. In one example, the first tube has a length of 5 mm.

The second tube may be positioned between the first tube and the third tube. The second tube may be located in the middle of the mouthpiece assembly.

A longitudinal cross-sectional shape of the second tube may be circular. A longitudinal cross-sectional shape of the second tube may be an annular shape.

The second tube may have a uniform inner diameter. That is, the inner diameter of the second tube may be the same along its entire length.

In the example of a second tube having a uniform inner diameter, the inner diameter of the second tube is considered to be the fixed diameter of the second tube.

Alternatively, the second tube may have a varying inner diameter. That is, the inner diameter of the second tube may vary along its length. For example, the inner diameter of the second tube may increase from one end to the other. The inner diameter of the second tube may decrease from one end to the other.

In certain instances, the inner diameter of the second tube may increase from an upstream end of the second tube to a downstream end of the second tube. That is, the inner diameter of the second pipe at its downstream end is larger than the inner diameter of the third pipe at its upstream end. Advantageously, this "funneling out" of the inner diameter of the second tube reduces filtration of the aerosol into the second tube.

In the example of a second tube having a varying inner diameter, the inner diameter of the second tube is considered to be the average diameter of the second tube.

The second tube may have an inner diameter of at least 1 mm. The second tube may have an inner diameter of at least 1.25 mm. The second tube may have an inner diameter of at least 1.5 mm. The second tube may have an inner diameter of at least 1.75 mm. The second tube may have an inner diameter of at least 2 mm.

The second tube may have an inner diameter of 3 mm or less. The second tube may have an inner diameter of 2.75 mm or less. The second tube may have an inner diameter of 2.5 mm or less. The second tube may have an inner diameter of 2.25 mm or less. The second tube may have an inner diameter of 2 mm or less. The second tube may have an inner diameter of 1.75 mm or less. The second tube may have an inner diameter of 1.5 mm or less. The second tube may have an inner diameter of 1.25 mm or less.

The second tube may have an inner diameter of 1 mm to 3 mm. The second tube may have an inner diameter of 1.25 mm to 3 mm. The second tube may have an inner diameter of 1.5 mm to 3 mm. The second tube may have an inner diameter of 1.75 mm to 3 mm. The second tube may have an inner diameter of 2 mm to 3 mm. The second tube may have an inner diameter of 2.25 mm to 3 mm. The second tube may have an inner diameter of 2.5 mm to 3 mm. The second tube may have an inner diameter of 2.75 mm to 3 mm.

The second tube may have an inner diameter of 1 mm to 2.75 mm. The second tube may have an inner diameter of 1 mm to 2.5 mm. The second tube may have an inner diameter of 1 mm to 2.25 mm. The second tube may have an inner diameter of 1 mm to 2 mm. The second tube may have an inner diameter of 1 mm to 1.75 mm. The second tube may have an inner diameter of 1 mm to 1.5 mm. The second tube may have an inner diameter of 1 mm to 1.25 mm.

The second tube may have an inner diameter of 1.3 mm to 2.7 mm. The second tube may have an inner diameter of 1.4 mm to 2.6 mm. The second tube may have an inner diameter of 1.5 mm to 2.5 mm. The second tube may have an inner diameter of 1.6 mm to 2.4 mm. The second tube may have an inner diameter of 1.7 mm to 2.3 mm. The second tube may have an inner diameter of 1.8 mm to 2.2 mm.

In one embodiment, the second tube has an inside diameter of 2 mm.

The second tube may have a length of at least 4 mm. The second tube may have a length of at least 4.25 mm. The second tube may have a length of at least 4.5 mm. The second tube may have a length of at least 4.75 mm. The second tube may have a length of at least 5 mm. The second tube may have a length of at least 5.25 mm. The second tube may have a length of at least 5.5 mm. The second tube may have a length of at least 5.75 mm. The second tube may have a length of at least 6 mm.

The second tube may have a length of 6 mm or less. The second tube may have a length of 5.75 mm or less. The second tube may have a length of 5.5 mm or less. The second tube may have a length of 5.25 mm or less. The second tube may have a length of 5 mm or less. The second tube may have a length of 4.75 mm or less. The second tube may have a length of 4.5 mm or less. The second tube may have a length of 4.25 mm or less.

The second tube may have a length of 4 mm to 6 mm. The second tube may have a length of 4.25 mm to 6 mm. The second tube may have a length of 4.5 mm to 6 mm. The second tube may have a length of 4.75 mm to 6 mm. The second tube may have a length of 5 mm to 6 mm. The second tube may have a length of 5.25 mm to 6 mm. The second tube may have a length of 5.5 mm to 6 mm. The second tube may have a length of 5.75 mm to 6 mm.

The second tube may have a length of 4 mm to 5.75 mm. The second tube may have a length of 4 mm to 5.5 mm. The second tube may have a length of 4 mm to 5.25 mm. The second tube may have a length of 4 mm to 5 mm. The second tube may have a length of 4 mm to 4.75 mm. The second tube may have a length of 4 mm to 4.5 mm. The second tube may have a length of 4 mm to 4.25 mm.

The second tube may have a length of 4.25 mm to 5.75 mm. The second tube may have a length of 4.25 mm to 5.5 mm. The second tube may have a length of 4.5 mm to 5.75 mm. The second tube may have a length of 4.5 mm to 5.5 mm. The second tube may have a length of 4.75 mm to 5.5 mm. The second tube may have a length of 4.5 mm to 5.25 mm. The second tube may have a length of 4.75 mm to 5.25 mm. In one embodiment, the second tube has a length of 5 mm.

The third tube may be located upstream of the first tube. The third tube may be located upstream of the second tube. A third tube may be located at the upstream end of the mouthpiece assembly.

A longitudinal cross-sectional shape of the third tube may be circular. The cross-sectional shape of the third pipe in the longitudinal direction may be an annular shape.

The third tube may have a uniform inner diameter. That is, the inner diameter of the third tube may be the same along its entire length.

In the example of a tertiary tube having a uniform inner diameter, the inner diameter of the tertiary tube is considered to be the fixed diameter of the tertiary tube.

Alternatively, the third tube may have a varying inner diameter. That is, the inner diameter of the third pipe may vary along its length. For example, the inner diameter of the third tube may decrease from one end to the other. The inner diameter of the third tube may increase from one end to the other.

In certain instances, the inner diameter of the third tube may decrease from an upstream end of the third tube to a downstream end of the third tube. That is, the inner diameter of the third pipe at its upstream end is larger than the inner diameter of the third pipe at its downstream end. Advantageously, this "funneling in" of the inner diameter of the third tube improves aerosol nucleation.

In the example of a tertiary tube having a varying inner diameter, the inner diameter of the tertiary tube is considered to be the average diameter of the tertiary tube.

The third tube may have an inner diameter of at least 3 mm. The third tube may have an inner diameter of at least 3.25 mm. The third tube may have an inner diameter of at least 3.5 mm. The third tube may have an inner diameter of at least 3.75 mm. The third tube may have an inner diameter of at least 4 mm. The third tube may have an inner diameter of at least 4.25 mm. The third tube may have an inner diameter of at least 4.5 mm. The third tube may have an inner diameter of at least 4.75 mm. The third tube may have an inner diameter of at least 5 mm.

The third tube may have an inner diameter of 8 mm or less. The third tube may have an inner diameter of 7.75 mm or less. The third tube may have an inner diameter of 7.5 mm or less. The third tube may have an inner diameter of 7.25 mm or less. The third tube may have an inner diameter of 7 mm or less. The third tube may have an inner diameter of 6.75 mm or less. The third tube may have an inner diameter of 6.5 mm or less. The third tube may have an inner diameter of 6.25 mm or less. The third tube may have an inner diameter of 6 mm or less. The third tube may have an inner diameter of 5.75 mm or less. The third tube may have an inner diameter of 5.5 mm or less. The third tube may have an inner diameter of 5.25 mm or less. The third tube may have an inner diameter of 5 mm or less. The third tube may have an inner diameter of 4.75 mm or less. The third tube may have an inner diameter of 4.5 mm or less. The third tube may have an inner diameter of 4.25 mm or less. The third tube may have an inner diameter of 4 mm or less.

The third tube may have an inner diameter of 3 mm to 8 mm. The third tube may have an inner diameter of 3.25 mm to 8 mm. The third tube may have an inner diameter of 3.5 mm to 8 mm. The third tube may have an inner diameter of 3.75 mm to 8 mm. The third tube may have an inner diameter of 4 mm to 8 mm. The third tube may have an inner diameter of 4.25 mm to 5 mm. The third tube may have an inner diameter of 4.5 mm to 8 mm. The third tube may have an inner diameter of 4.75 mm to 8 mm. The third tube may have an inner diameter of 5 mm to 8 mm.

The third tube may have an inner diameter of 3 mm to 7.75 mm. The third tube may have an inner diameter of 3 mm to 7.5 mm. The third tube may have an inner diameter of 3 mm to 7.25 mm. The third tube may have an inner diameter of 3 mm to 7 mm. The third tube may have an inner diameter of 3 mm to 6.75 mm. The third tube may have an inner diameter of 3 mm to 6.5 mm. The third tube may have an inner diameter of 3 mm to 6.25 mm. The third tube may have an inner diameter of 3 mm to 6 mm. The third tube may have an inner diameter of 3 mm to 5.75 mm. The third tube may have an inner diameter of 3 mm to 5.5 mm. The third tube may have an inner diameter of 3 mm to 5.25 mm. The third tube may have an inner diameter of 3 mm to 5 mm. The third tube may have an inner diameter of 3 mm to 4.75 mm. The third tube may have an inner diameter of 3 mm to 4.5 mm. The third tube may have an inner diameter of 3 mm to 4.25 mm. The third tube may have an inner diameter of 3 mm to 4 mm.

The third tube may have an inner diameter of 3.3 mm to 6 mm. The third tube may have an inner diameter of 3.4 mm to 5.5 mm. The third tube may have an inner diameter of 3.5 mm to 5 mm. The third tube may have an inner diameter of 3.6 mm to 4.75 mm. The third tube may have an inner diameter of 3.7 mm to 4.5 mm. The third tube may have an inner diameter of 3.9 mm to 4.25 mm.

In one embodiment, the third tube has an inside diameter of 4 mm.

The third tube may have a length of at least 4 mm. The third tube may have a length of at least 4.25 mm. The third tube may have a length of at least 4.5 mm. The third tube may have a length of at least 4.75 mm. The third tube may have a length of at least 5 mm. The third tube may have a length of at least 5.25 mm. The third tube may have a length of at least 5.5 mm. The third tube may have a length of at least 5.75 mm. The third tube may have a length of at least 6 mm.

The third tube may have a length of 6 mm or less. The third tube may have a length of 5.75 mm or less. The third tube may have a length of 5.5 mm or less. The third tube may have a length of 5.25 mm or less. The third tube may have a length of 5 mm or less. The third tube may have a length of 4.75 mm or less. The third tube may have a length of 4.5 mm or less. The third tube may have a length of 4.25 mm or less.

The third tube may have a length of 4 mm to 6 mm. The third tube may have a length of 4.25 mm to 6 mm. The third tube may have a length of 4.5 mm to 6 mm. The third tube may have a length of 4.75 mm to 6 mm. The third tube may have a length of 5 mm to 6 mm. The third tube may have a length of 5.25 mm to 6 mm. The third tube may have a length of 5.5 mm to 6 mm. The third tube may have a length of 5.75 mm to 6 mm.

The third tube may have a length of 4 mm to 5.75 mm. The third tube may have a length of 4 mm to 5.5 mm. The third tube may have a length of 4 mm to 5.25 mm. The third tube may have a length of 4 mm to 5 mm. The third tube may have a length of 4 mm to 4.75 mm. The third tube may have a length of 4 mm to 4.5 mm. The third tube may have a length of 4 mm to 4.25 mm.

The third tube may have a length of 4.25 mm to 5.75 mm. The third tube may have a length of 4.25 mm to 5.5 mm. The third tube may have a length of 4.5 mm to 5.75 mm. The third tube may have a length of 4.5 mm to 5.5 mm. The third tube may have a length of 4.75 mm to 5.5 mm. The third tube may have a length of 4.5 mm to 5.25 mm. The third tube may have a length of 4.75 mm to 5.25 mm. In one example, the third tube has a length of 5 mm.

The aerosol-generating article may have a length of at least 35 mm. The aerosol-generating article may have a length of at least 40 mm. The aerosol-generating article may have a length of at least 45 mm. The aerosol-generating article may have a length of at least 50 mm. The aerosol-generating article may have a length of at least 55 mm.

The aerosol-generating article may have a length of 60 mm or less. The aerosol-generating article may have a length of 55 mm or less. The aerosol-generating article may have a length of 50 mm or less. The aerosol-generating article may have a length of 45 mm or less. The aerosol-generating article may have a length of 40 mm or less.

The aerosol-generating article may have a length of 35 mm to 60 mm. The aerosol-generating article may have a length of 35 mm to 55 mm. The aerosol-generating article may have a length of 35 mm to 50 mm. The aerosol-generating article may have a length of 35 mm to 45 mm. The aerosol-generating article may have a length of 35 mm to 40 mm.

The aerosol-generating article may have a length of 40 mm to 60 mm. The aerosol-generating article may have a length of 45 mm to 60 mm. The aerosol-generating article may have a length of 50 mm to 60 mm. The aerosol-generating article may have a length of 55 mm to 60 mm.

The aerosol-generating article may have a length of 35 mm to 55 mm. The aerosol-generating article may have a length of 40 mm to 55 mm. The aerosol-generating article may have a length of 40 mm to 50 mm. The aerosol-generating article may have a length of 45 mm to 50 mm. The aerosol-generating article may have a length of 40 mm to 45 mm.

In one example, the aerosol-generating article has a length of 45 mm.

The ratio of the inner diameter of the first tube to the outer diameter of the first tube may be 0.4 to 0.8. The ratio of the inner diameter of the first tube to the outer diameter of the first tube may be 0.5 to 0.7.

The ratio of the inner diameter of the first tube to the outer diameter of the first tube may be 0.6.

The ratio of the inner diameter of the second tube to the outer diameter of the second tube may be 0.1 to 0.5. The ratio of the inner diameter of the second tube to the outer diameter of the second tube may be 0.2 to 0.4.

The ratio of the inner diameter of the second tube to the outer diameter of the second tube may be 0.3.

The ratio of the inner diameter of the third tube to the outer diameter of the third tube may be 0.4 to 0.8. The ratio of the inner diameter of the third tube to the outer diameter of the third tube may be 0.5 to 0.7.

The ratio of the inner diameter of the third tube to the outer diameter of the third tube may be 0.6.

The first tube may have an outer diameter of at least 6 mm. The first tube may have an outer diameter of at least 6.25 mm. The first tube may have an outer diameter of at least 6.5 mm. The first tube may have an outer diameter of at least 6.75 mm. The first tube may have an outer diameter of at least 7 mm.

The first tube may have an outer diameter of 8 mm or less. The first tube may have an outer diameter of 7.75 mm or less. The first tube may have an outer diameter of 7.5 mm or less. The first tube may have an outer diameter of 7.25 mm or less. The first tube may have an outer diameter of 7 mm or less.

The first tube may have an outer diameter of 6 mm to 8 mm. The first tube may have an outer diameter of 6.25 mm to 8 mm. The first tube may have an outer diameter of 6.5 mm to 8 mm. The first tube may have an outer diameter of 6.75 mm to 8 mm. The first tube may have an outer diameter of 7 mm to 8 mm. The first tube may have an outer diameter of 7.25 mm to 8 mm. The first tube may have an outer diameter of 7.5 mm to 8 mm. The first tube may have an outer diameter of 7.75 mm to 8 mm.

The first tube may have an outer diameter of 6 mm to 7.75 mm. The first tube may have an outer diameter of 6 mm to 7.5 mm. The first tube may have an outer diameter of 6 mm to 7.25 mm. The first tube may have an outer diameter of 6 mm to 7 mm. The first tube may have an outer diameter of 6 mm to 6.75 mm. The first tube may have an outer diameter of 6 mm to 6.5 mm. The first tube may have an outer diameter of 6 mm to 6.25 mm.

The first tube may have an outer diameter of 6.25 mm to 7.75 mm. The first tube may have an outer diameter of 6.5 mm to 7.5 mm. The first tube may have an outer diameter of 6.75 mm to 7.25 mm.

The first tube may have an outer diameter of 7 mm.

The ratio of the length of the first tube to the inner diameter of the first tube may be 0.75 to 1.75. The ratio of the length of the first tube to the inner diameter of the first tube may be 1 to 1.5.

The ratio of the length of the first tube to the inner diameter of the first tube may be 1.25.

The ratio of the length of the second tube to the inner diameter of the second tube may be between 2 and 3. The ratio of the length of the second tube to the inner diameter of the second tube may be 2.25 to 2.75.

The ratio of the length of the second tube to the inner diameter of the second tube may be 2.5.

The ratio of the length of the third tube to the inner diameter of the third tube may be 0.75 to 1.75. The ratio of the length of the third tube to the inner diameter of the third tube may be 1 to 1.5.

The ratio of the length of the third tube to the inner diameter of the third tube may be 1.25.

The first tube and the second tube may be arranged coaxial with each other along their longitudinal axis. The first tube and the third tube may be arranged coaxial with each other along their longitudinal axis. The second tube and the third tube may be arranged coaxial with each other along their longitudinal axis. In one example, the first tube, the second tube and the third tube may be arranged coaxial with each other along their longitudinal axes.

The aerosol-generating substrate may include a gel. The gel composition may include at least one gelling agent. The gel composition may include at least one alkaloid compound. The gel composition may include at least one cannabinoid compound. The gel composition may include at least one aerosol former. In one embodiment, the gel composition comprises at least one gelling agent, at least one of an alkaloid compound and a cannabinoid compound, and an aerosol former.

Advantageously, the provision of an aerosol-forming substrate comprising a gel composition may be desirable as it may provide a uniform substrate capable of generating a highly consistent aerosol. Additionally, the gel aerosol-forming substrate can generate an aerosol at a lower temperature than an aerosol-forming substrate comprising tobacco. This may provide more efficient generation of aerosols. Also, this may advantageously reduce the need to cool the aerosol before reaching the consumer.

The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise an annular plug of porous media loaded with a gel composition. The porous medium may include at least one of cellulose acetate tow, crimped viscose, and crimped cotton.

The aerosol-generating article may include an upstream element. The upstream element may be located upstream of the aerosol-forming substrate. The upstream element may abut the aerosol-forming substrate. The upstream element may have a high resistance to draw (RTD). The upstream element may be formed from a material that provides a high RTD. The upstream element may include a filtration material. The upstream element may include an annular plug. The upstream element may include an annular plug of fibrous filtering material.

The provision of an upstream element can advantageously protect the aerosol-forming substrate and prevent a user from coming into direct contact with the aerosol-forming substrate.

Upstream elements can be used to provide better control over the total resistance to draw (RTD) of the aerosol-generating article. In particular, the upstream element may advantageously be used to compensate for potential reduction in RTD due to evaporation of the aerosol-forming substrate during use, or due to inclusion of other elements in the aerosol-generating article having a relatively low resistance to draw. For example, in embodiments of the present invention comprising an intermediate space that provides virtually no RTD to the entire aerosol-generating article, the upstream element is capable of adding RTD to the aerosol-generating article so that an acceptable level of RTD can still be provided. can be used to

Advantageously, the upstream element can increase the overall RTD without affecting the properties of the aerosol, due to the location of the upstream element upstream of the aerosol-forming substrate. If the desired level of RTD can be provided mostly due to an upstream element, this may allow a downstream element that provides minimal filtration of the aerosol to be used. Thus, the aerosol-generating article can optimize aerosol delivery from the gel composition to the consumer while still maintaining an optimal level of RTD throughout the smoking experience.

Alternatively or additionally, the upstream element may advantageously be adapted to compensate for a reduction in length of other elements of the aerosol-generating article, so that an overall consistent length of the aerosol-generating article may be maintained. This advantageously enables the aerosol-forming substrate to be positioned in an optimal position for heating when the aerosol-generating article is inserted into the aerosol-generating device. Compensation of this length can be provided without affecting the properties of the aerosol.

Also, the upstream element can advantageously provide a more uniform appearance at the upstream end of the aerosol-generating article.

In examples comprising a recess extending from an upstream end of the aerosol-generating article through an upstream element, the upstream element may include a longitudinal opening for receiving the recess. For example, the upstream element may have an annular shape.

The aerosol-generating article may include a ventilation zone.

The ventilation zone may include one or more rows of ventilation perforations. One or more rows of ventilation perforations may be formed through a wall surface of at least one of the first tube, the second tube, and the third tube. In one example, one or more rows of ventilation perforations are formed through the wall of the third tube. In embodiments comprising a wrapper, one or more rows of ventilation perforations are formed through the wrapper. Advantageously, the one or more rows of ventilation perforations provide a ventilation effect that can enhance the cooling of evaporated volatile compounds of the aerosol-forming substrate, which improves aerosol nucleation.

A ventilation zone may contain only one row of ventilation perforations. Advantageously, by concentrating the cooling effect caused by ventilation over a short portion of the aerosol-generating article, it may be possible to further enhance aerosol nucleation. This is because faster and more dramatic cooling of the stream of volatilized compounds is expected to be particularly favorable for the formation of new nuclei of aerosol particles.

One or more rows of ventilation perforations may be arranged circumferentially around a wall surface of at least one of the first, second and third tubes. If the ventilation zone comprises two or more rows of ventilation perforations, the rows of ventilation perforations may be spaced longitudinally from one another along at least one of the first, second and third ducts. As an example, adjacent rows of ventilation perforations may be spaced longitudinally from each other by a distance of about 0.25 mm to 0.75 mm.

At least one of the ventilation perforations may have an equivalent diameter of at least 100 μm. At least one of the ventilation perforations may have an equivalent diameter of at least 150 μm. At least one of the ventilation perforations may have an equivalent diameter of at least 200 μm.

At least one of the ventilation perforations may have an equivalent diameter of less than 500 μm. At least one of the ventilation perforations may have an equivalent diameter of less than 450 μm. The term "equivalent diameter" is used herein to denote the diameter of a circle having the same surface area as the cross-section of the ventilation perforation. The cross section of the ventilation perforation may have any suitable shape. In one example, the ventilation perforations have a circular cross-sectional shape.

Ventilation perforations may be of uniform size. Alternatively, the ventilation perforations may vary in size. By varying the number and size of the ventilation perforations, it is possible to adjust the amount of outside air drawn into the first tube, the second tube and/or the third tube when the consumer inhales the aerosol-generating article during use. As such, it is advantageously possible to adjust the level of ventilation of the aerosol-generating article.

The ventilation perforation may be performed by any suitable technique, for example laser technology, mechanical perforation of the first tube, the second tube and/or the third tube or other element as part of the aerosol-generating article to form the aerosol-generating article. It may be formed using pre-drilling of the first tube, the second tube and/or the third tube before being combined. Preferably, the ventilation perforations are formed by online laser perforations.

The distance between the ventilation zone and the upstream end of the aerosol-generating article may be less than 50 mm. The distance between the ventilation zone and the upstream end of the aerosol-generating article may be less than 45 mm. The distance between the ventilation zone and the upstream end of the aerosol-generating article may be less than 40 mm.

The distance between the ventilation zone and the upstream end of the aerosol-generating article may preferably be at least 12 mm. The distance between the ventilation zone and the upstream end of the aerosol-generating article may be at least 15 mm. The distance between the ventilation zone and the upstream end of the aerosol-generating article may be at least 20 mm. The distance between the ventilation zone and the upstream end of the aerosol-generating article may be at least 25 mm.

The distance between the ventilation zone and the downstream end of the rod of the aerosol-forming substrate may be at least 2 mm. The distance between the ventilation zone and the downstream end of the rod of the aerosol-forming substrate may be at least 4 mm. The distance between the ventilation zone and the downstream end of the rod of the aerosol-forming substrate may be at least 5 mm. The distance between the ventilation zone and the downstream end of the rod of the aerosol-forming substrate may be at least 10 mm. The distance between the ventilation zone and the downstream end of the rod of the aerosol-forming substrate may be at least about 15 mm.

The distance between the ventilation zone and the downstream end of the rod of the aerosol-forming substrate may be less than 35 mm. The distance between the ventilation zone and the downstream end of the rod of the aerosol-forming substrate may be less than 30 mm. The distance between the ventilation zone and the downstream end of the rod of the aerosol-forming substrate may be less than about 25 mm.

In practice, the ventilation zone includes an internally defined cavity in the aerosol-generating article, an upstream lower cavity extending longitudinally from an upstream end of the aerosol-generating article to a location of the ventilation zone, and a downstream end of the aerosol-generating article from the location of the ventilation zone. It can be divided into downstream sub-cavities extending longitudinally. Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is understood that in the upstream lower cavity, volatilized compounds in the aerosol stream progress slowly downstream along the cavity and are cooled, for example by providing some of the heat to the peripheral wall of the third tube. Thus, aerosol particles start to nucleate. On the other hand, in the downstream subcavity, the aerosol stream and ventilation air mix rapidly, which causes rapid cooling of the volatilized compounds in the aerosol stream, thus nucleating and already existing aerosol particles as the aerosol advances downstream. favor the growth of aerosol particles that

The aerosol-generating article may include a recess extending from an upstream end of the aerosol-generating article. The recess may extend through the upstream element. The recess may extend through at least a portion of the aerosol-forming substrate.

The provision of a recess may advantageously allow the aerosol-generating article to be heated using an internal heater such as a fin or blade heater. This can facilitate more efficient heating of the aerosol-forming substrate. Including recesses is particularly advantageous because aerosol-forming substrates comprising gels typically have a higher density than aerosol-forming substrates comprising tobacco. As a result, it would be less practical for a fin or blade heater to be directly inserted into an aerosol-forming substrate comprising a gel, compared to an aerosol-forming substrate comprising tobacco. In addition, the provision of a recess may prevent the heater from coming into contact with the gel aerosol-forming substrate, which may help keep the heater clean.

The recess may be defined by a longitudinal opening extending through the upstream element and a longitudinal opening extending through at least a portion of the aerosol-forming substrate. The longitudinal openings extending through the upstream element and the longitudinal openings extending through at least a portion of the aerosol-forming substrate may have substantially the same diameter and may be substantially aligned.

The concave portion may have any cross-sectional shape. The concave portion may have a certain cross-sectional shape. The shape of the recess may be configured to correspond to the shape of a heater of an aerosol-generating device to be used with the aerosol-generating article. The concave portion may have a circular cross-sectional shape. A concave portion having a circular cross-sectional shape may be appropriate when the heater is a finned heater. The recess may have a rectangular or rectangular shape. A recess having a rectangular or rectangular cross-sectional shape may be appropriate when the heater is a blade heater. Preferably, the concave portion has a circular cross-sectional shape.

The recess may be arranged centrally along the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating article. This may advantageously simplify the insertion of the aerosol-generating article into the aerosol-generating device, since the orientation of the aerosol-generating device may not be critical. Additionally, centrally locating the recess may advantageously ensure uniform heating of the aerosol-forming substrate.

The recess may have any diameter. Preferably, the recess has a diameter equal to or slightly larger than the diameter of a heater of the aerosol-generating device to be used with the aerosol-generating article.

The diameter of the recess may be between about 0.5 mm and about 10 mm. For example, the diameter of the recess may be between about 1 mm and about 8 mm, or between about 2 mm and about 6 mm.

The recesses can be of any length. Preferably, the recess has a length equal to or slightly greater than the length of the heater of the aerosol-generating device to be used with the aerosol-generating article.

The concave portion may have a length of about 5 mm to about 30 mm. For example, the concave portion may have a length of about 10 mm to about 25 mm, or about 15 mm to about 20 mm.

The recess may extend through the entire length of the aerosol-forming substrate. In this case, the recess may extend further downstream of the downstream end of the aerosol-forming substrate. Alternatively, in this case, the recess may extend to the downstream end of the aerosol-forming substrate, but no further downstream.

Preferably, the gel composition comprises an alkaloid compound, or a cannabinoid compound, or both an alkaloid compound and a cannabinoid compound; aerosol formers; and at least one gelling agent. Preferably, the at least one gelling agent forms a solid medium, the glycerol is dispersed in the solid medium, and the alkaloid or cannabinoid is dispersed in the glycerol. Preferably, the gel composition is in a stable gel phase.

Advantageously, a stable gel composition comprising nicotine provides a predictable compositional shape upon storage or transfer from manufacture to consumer. A stable gel composition comprising nicotine substantially retains its shape. A stable gel composition comprising substantially nicotine does not release substantially a liquid phase upon storage or during transit from manufacture to consumer. A stable gel composition comprising nicotine can provide a simple consumable design. Such consumables may not need to be designed to contain liquids, so a wider range of materials and container configurations may be considered.

The gel composition described herein can be combined with an aerosol generating device to deliver a nicotine aerosol to the lungs at an inhalation or airflow rate that is within conventional smoking regime inhalation or airflow rates. The aerosol-generating device may continuously heat the gel composition. A consumer may take multiple inhalations or “puffs,” where each “puff” sms delivers an amount of nicotine aerosol. The gel composition, when heated, is capable of delivering a high nicotine/low total particulate matter (TPM) aerosol to the consumer, preferably in a continuous manner.

The phrase "stable gel phase" or "stable gel" refers to a gel that substantially retains its shape and mass when exposed to various environmental conditions. A stable gel may substantially not release (sweat) or absorb water when exposed to standard temperature and pressure with varying relative humidity from about 10% to about 60%. For example, a stable gel can substantially retain its shape and mass when exposed to standard temperature and pressure while varying relative humidity from about 10% to about 60%.

The gel composition contains an alkaloid compound, or a cannabinoid compound, or both an alkaloid compound and a cannabinoid compound. The gel composition may include one or more alkaloids. A gel composition may include one or more cannabinoids. The gel composition may include a combination of one or more alkaloids and one or more cannabinoids.

The term “alkaloid compound” refers to any one of a class of naturally occurring organic compounds containing one or more basic nitrogen atoms. Generally, alkaloids contain at least one nitrogen atom in the amine-type structure. These or other nitrogen atoms in the molecule of an alkaloid compound can be activated as a base in an acid-base reaction. Most alkaloid compounds have one or more nitrogen atoms as part of a cyclic system, for example a heterosilane ring. In fact, alkaloid compounds are found primarily in plants and are particularly common in certain flowering plant families. However, some alkaloid compounds are found in animal species and fungi. In this disclosure, the term “alkaloid compound” refers to both naturally occurring alkaloid compounds and synthetically prepared alkaloid compounds.

The gel composition may include an alkaloid compound, preferably selected from the group consisting of nicotine, anatabine, and combinations thereof.

Preferably, the gel composition contains nicotine.

The term "nicotine" refers to nicotine and nicotine derivatives such as free-base nicotine, nicotine salts, and the like.

The term “cannabinoid compound” refers to compounds found in the cannabis plant—namely, some of the species Cannabis sativa, Cannabis indica, and Cannabis ruderalis. Refers to any one of a class of naturally occurring compounds. Cannabinoid compounds are particularly concentrated in female flower heads. Cannabinoid compounds that occur naturally in the cannabis plant include cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). In this disclosure, the term “cannabinoid compound” is used to describe both naturally occurring cannabinoid compounds and synthetically prepared cannabinoid compounds.

The gel contains cannabidiol (CBD), tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA), cannabidiolic acid (CBDA), cannabinol (CBN), cannabigerol (CBG), cannabis Chromene (CBC), Cannabicyclol (CBL), Cannabivarin (CBV), Tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV), Cannabidivarin (CBDV), Cannabichromvarin (CBCV), Cannabigerobarin (CBGV), cannabigerol monomethyl ether (CBGM), cannabielsoin (CBE), cannabicitran (CBT), and combinations thereof.

The gel composition may include a cannabinoid compound, preferably selected from the group consisting of cannabidiol (CBD), THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), and combinations thereof.

The gel may preferably contain cannabidiol (CBD).

The gel composition may include nicotine and cannabidiol (CBD).

The gel composition may include nicotine, and may include cannabidiol (CBD), and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol).

The gel composition preferably contains from about 0.5% to about 10% by weight of an alkaloid compound, or from about 0.5% to about 10% by weight of a cannabinoid compound, or from about 0.5% to about 10% by weight of an alkaloid compound in a total amount. and cannabinoid compounds. The gel composition contains from about 0.5% to about 5% by weight of an alkaloid compound, or from about 0.5% to about 5% by weight of a cannabinoid compound, or from about 0.5% to about 5% by weight of an alkaloid compound and cannabis in a total amount. It may contain both noid compounds. Preferably, from about 1% to about 3% by weight of an alkaloid compound, or from about 1% to about 3% by weight of a cannabinoid compound, or from about 1% to about 3% by weight of an alkaloid compound in a total amount of the gel composition. and cannabinoid compounds. The gel composition preferably contains from about 1.5% to about 2.5% by weight of an alkaloid compound, or from about 1.5% to about 2.5% by weight of a cannabinoid compound, or from about 1.5% to about 2.5% by weight of an alkaloid compound in a total amount. and cannabinoid compounds. The gel composition may preferably comprise about 2% by weight of an alkaloid compound, or about 2% by weight of a cannabinoid compound, or both an alkaloid compound and a cannabinoid compound in a total amount of about 2% by weight. The alkaloid compound component of the gel formulation may be the most volatile component of the gel formulation. In some aspects water may be the most volatile component of the gel formulation and the alkaloid compound component of the gel formulation may be the second most volatile component of the gel formulation. The cannabinoid compound component of the gel formulation may be the most volatile component of the gel formulation. In some aspects water may be the most volatile component of the gel formulation and the alkaloid compound component of the gel formulation may be the second most volatile component of the gel formulation.

Preferably, nicotine is included in the gel composition. Nicotine can be added to the composition in free base form or in salt form. The gel composition contains from about 0.5% to about 10% nicotine by weight, or from about 0.5% to about 5% nicotine by weight. Preferably, the gel composition contains from about 1% to about 3% nicotine by weight, or from about 1.5% to about 2.5% nicotine by weight, or about 2% nicotine by weight. The nicotine component of the gel formulation may be the most volatile component of the gel formulation. In some aspects water can be the most volatile component of the gel formulation and the nicotine component of the gel formulation can be the second most volatile component of the gel formulation.

The gel composition additionally contains an aerosol former. Ideally, the aerosol former is substantially resistant to thermal degradation at the operating temperature of the associated aerosol-generating device. Suitable aerosol formers include polyhydric alcohols such as triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol and glycerin; esters of polyhydric alcohols such as glycerol mono-, di- or triacetate; and aliphatic esters of mono-, di- or polycarboxylic acids, such as dimethyl dodecanedioate and dimethyl tetradecanedioate. The polyhydric alcohol or mixture thereof may be one or more of triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol and glycerin (glycerol or propane-1,2,3-triol) or polyethylene glycol. Preferably, the aerosol former is glycerol.

The gel composition may include a majority of the aerosol former. The gel composition may include a mixture of water and an aerosol former, wherein the aerosol former forms the majority (by weight) of the gel composition. The aerosol former may form at least about 50% by weight of the gel composition. The aerosol former may form at least about 60%, or at least about 65%, or at least about 70% by weight of the gel composition. The aerosol former may form about 70% to about 80% by weight of the gel composition. The aerosol former may form from about 70% to about 75% by weight of the gel composition.

The gel composition may include a majority of glycerol. The gel composition may include a mixture of water and glycerol, with glycerol forming the majority (by weight) of the gel composition. Glycerol may form at least about 50% by weight of the gel composition. Glycerol may form at least about 60% by weight or at least about 65% by weight or at least about 70% by weight of the gel composition. Glycerol may form about 70% to about 80% by weight of the gel composition. Glycerol may form about 70% to about 75% by weight of the gel composition.

The gel composition additionally contains at least one gelling agent. Preferably, the gel composition contains a total amount of gelling agent in the range of about 0.4% to about 10% by weight. More preferably, the composition includes a gelling agent in the range of about 0.5% to about 8% by weight. More preferably, the composition includes a gelling agent in the range of about 1% to about 6% by weight. More preferably, the composition comprises a gelling agent in the range of about 2% to about 4% by weight. More preferably, the composition includes a gelling agent in the range of about 2% to about 3% by weight.

The term “gelling agent” refers to a compound that, when added to a 50% water/50% glycerol mixture by weight, in an amount of about 0.3% by weight, uniformly forms a solid medium or support matrix that induces a gel. Gelling agents include, but are not limited to, hydrogen-bond crosslinking gelling agents, and ionic crosslinking gelling agents.

The gelling agent may include one or more biopolymers. Biopolymers can be formed from polysaccharides.

Biopolymers include, for example, gellan gum (natural, low acyl gellan gum, high acyl gellan gum with low acyl gellan gum), xanthan gum, alginate (alginic acid), agar, guar gum and the like. The composition may preferably include xanthan gum. The composition may include two biopolymers. The composition may include three biopolymers. A composition may include two biopolymers by weight of substantially equal weight. The composition may include three biopolymers in substantially equal weight.

Preferably, the gel composition contains at least about 0.2% by weight of a hydrogen-bond crosslinking gelling agent. Alternatively or additionally, the gel composition preferably includes at least about 0.2% by weight of an ionic crosslinking gelling agent. Most preferably, the gel composition comprises at least about 0.2% by weight of a hydrogen-bonded crosslinking gellant and at least about 0.2% by weight of an ionic crosslinking gellant. The gel composition comprises about 0.5% to about 3% by weight of a hydrogen-bonded crosslinking gellant and about 0.5% to about 3% by weight of an ionic crosslinking gellant, or about 1% to about 2% by weight of hydrogen-bonded gelling agents. crosslinking gelling agent and from about 1% to about 2% by weight of an ionic crosslinking gelling agent. The hydrogen-bonded crosslinking gellant and the ionic crosslinking gellant may be present in substantially equal weights of the gel composition.

The term “hydrogen-bond crosslinking gelling agent” refers to a gelling agent that forms non-covalent crosslinks or physical crosslinks through hydrogen bonds. A hydrogen bond is a type of electrostatic dipole attraction between molecules that is not a covalent bond to hydrogen atoms. This results from the attraction between a highly electronegative atom, such as a N, O, or F atom, and a hydrogen atom covalently bonded to another highly electronegative atom.

The hydrogen-bond cross-linking gelling agent may include one or more of galactomannan, gelatin, agarose, or konjac gum or agar. The hydrogen-bonding crosslinking gelling agent may preferably include agar.

The gel composition includes a hydrogen-bond crosslinking gelling agent in the range of about 0.3% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, the composition includes a hydrogen-bonded crosslinking gelling agent in the range of about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, the composition includes a hydrogen-bond crosslinking gelling agent in the range of about 1% to about 2% by weight.

The gel composition may include galactomannan in the range of about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, the galactomannan may range from about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, the galactomannan may range from about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, the galactomannan may range from about 1% to about 2% by weight.

The gel composition may include gelatin in the range of about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, the gelatine may range from about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, the gelatine may range from about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, the gelatine may range from about 1% to about 2% by weight.

The gel composition may include agarose in the range of about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, agarose may range from about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, agarose may range from about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, agarose may range from about 1% to about 2% by weight.

The gel composition may include konjac gum in the range of about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, the konjac gum may range from about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, the konjac gum may range from about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, the konjac gum may range from about 1% to about 2% by weight.

The gel composition may include agar in the range of about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, agar may range from about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, agar may range from about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, agar may range from about 1% to about 2% by weight.

The term “ionic crosslinking gelling agent” refers to a gelling agent that forms non-covalent crosslinks or physical crosslinks through ionic bonds. Ionic crosslinking involves the linking of polymer chains by non-covalent interactions. A cross-linked network is formed when multivalent molecules of opposite charge are electrostatically attracted to each other, creating a cross-linked polymer network.

Ionic crosslinking gelling agents may include low acyl gellans, pectin, kappa carrageenan, iota carrageenan or alginates. The ionic cross-linking gelling agent may preferably include low acyl gellans.

The gel composition may include an ionic crosslinking gelling agent in the range of about 0.3% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, the composition includes an ionic crosslinking gelling agent in the range of about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, the composition includes an ionic crosslinking gelling agent in the range of about 1% to about 2% by weight.

The gel composition may include low acyl gellans in the range of about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, the low acyl gellans may range from about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, the low acyl gellans may range from about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, the low acyl gellans may range from about 1% to about 2% by weight.

The gel composition may include pectin in the range of about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, pectin may range from about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, pectin may range from about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, pectin may range from about 1% to about 2% by weight.

The gel composition may include kappa carrageenan in the range of about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, kappa carrageenan may range from about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, kappa carrageenan may range from about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, kappa carrageenan may range from about 1% to about 2% by weight.

The gel composition may include iota carrageenan in the range of about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, iota carrageenan may range from about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, iota carrageenan may range from about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, iota carrageenan may range from about 1% to about 2% by weight.

The gel composition may include an alginate in the range of about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, the alginate may range from about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, the alginate may range from about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, the alginate may range from about 1% to about 2% by weight.

The gel composition may include a hydrogen-bonded cross-linking gelling agent and an ionic cross-linking gelling agent in a ratio of about 3:1 to about 1:3. Preferably, the gel composition may include a hydrogen-bonded cross-linking gelling agent and an ionic cross-linking gelling agent in a ratio of about 2:1 to about 1:2. Preferably, the gel composition may include a hydrogen-bonded cross-linking gelling agent and an ionic cross-linking gelling agent in a ratio of about 1:1.

The gel composition may further include a viscosifying agent. A viscosifying agent in combination with a hydrogen-bonded crosslinking gelling agent and an ionic crosslinking gelling agent surprisingly appears to support the solid medium and maintain the gel composition even when the gel composition contains high levels of glycerol.

The term "viscosifying agent" refers to a compound which, when added uniformly to a mixture of 50% by weight water/50% by weight glycerin at 25°C, in an amount of 0.3% by weight, increases the viscosity without causing the formation of a gel. and the mixture persists or leaves a fluid. Preferably, the viscosifying agent, when added uniformly to a mixture of 50% by weight water/50% by weight glycerin at 25°C, in an amount of 0.3% by weight, at a shear rate of 0.1 s-1, does not cause the formation of a gel. , a compound which increases the viscosity by at least 50 cPs, preferably by at least 200 cPs, preferably by at least 500 cPs, preferably by at least 1000 cPs, and the mixture remains or leaves fluid. Preferably, the viscosifying agent, when added uniformly to a mixture of 50% by weight water/50% by weight glycerol at 25° C., in an amount of 0.3% by weight, at a shear rate of 0.1 s-1, does not cause the formation of a gel. , a compound that increases the viscosity at least 2 times, or at least 5 times, or at least 10 times, or at least 100 times higher than before addition, and the mixture remains or leaves fluid.

Viscosity values recited herein may be measured using a Brookfield RVT viscometer rotating a disk type RV#2 spindle at 25° C. at a speed of 6 rpm.

The gel composition may include a viscosifying agent in the range of about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, the composition includes a viscosifying agent in the range of about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, the composition includes a viscosifying agent in the range of about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, the composition includes a viscosifying agent in the range of about 1% to about 2% by weight.

The viscosifying agent may include one or more of xanthan gum, carboxymethyl-cellulose, microcrystalline cellulose, methyl cellulose, gum arabic, guar gum, lambda carrageenan, or starch. The viscosifying agent may preferably include xanthan gum.

The gel composition may include xanthan gum in the range of about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, xanthan gum may range from about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, xanthan gum may range from about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, xanthan gum may range from about 1% to about 2% by weight.

The gel composition may include carboxymethyl-cellulose in the range of about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, carboxymethyl-cellulose may range from about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, carboxymethyl-cellulose may range from about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, carboxymethyl-cellulose may range from about 1% to about 2% by weight.

The gel composition may include microcrystalline cellulose in the range of about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, the microcrystalline cellulose may range from about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, the microcrystalline cellulose may range from about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, the microcrystalline cellulose may range from about 1% to about 2% by weight.

The gel composition may include methyl cellulose in the range of about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, methyl cellulose may range from about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, methyl cellulose may range from about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, methyl cellulose may range from about 1% to about 2% by weight.

The gel composition may include gum Arabic in the range of about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, gum arabic may range from about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, gum arabic may range from about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, gum arabic may range from about 1% to about 2% by weight.

The gel composition may include from about 0.2% to about 5% by weight of guar gum. Preferably, guar gum may range from about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, guar gum may range from about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, guar gum may range from about 1% to about 2% by weight.

The gel composition may include lambda carrageenan in the range of about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, lambda carrageenan may range from about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, lambda carrageenan may range from about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, lambda carrageenan may range from about 1% to about 2% by weight.

The gel composition may include starch in the range of about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, the starch may range from about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, the starch may range from about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, the starch may range from about 1% to about 2% by weight.

The gel composition may further include divalent cations. Preferably, the divalent cation contains calcium ions, such as calcium lactate in solution. Divalent cations, such as calcium ions, can aid in the gel formulation of a composition comprising a gelling agent, such as, for example, an ionic crosslinking gelling agent. Ionic effects can aid gel formulations. The divalent cation may be present in the gel composition in the range of about 0.1% to about 1% by weight, or about 0.5% to about 1% by weight.

The gel composition may further include an acid. Acids may include carboxylic acids. Carboxylic acids may contain ketone groups. Preferably the carboxylic acid may include a ketone group having less than about 10 carbon atoms, or less than about 6 carbon atoms, or less than about 4 carbon atoms, such as levulinic acid or lactic acid. Preferably, this carboxylic acid has 3 carbon atoms (eg lactic acid). Lactic acid surprisingly improves the stability of the gel composition over similar carboxylic acids. Carboxylic acids can aid in gel formulations. The carboxylic acid can reduce the alkaloid compound concentration, or the cannabinoid compound concentration, or both the alkaloid compound concentration and the cannabinoid compound concentration within the gel composition during storage. The carboxylic acid can reduce the change in nicotine concentration in the gel composition during storage.

The gel composition may include a carboxylic acid in the range of about 0.1% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, the carboxylic acid may range from about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, the carboxylic acid may range from about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, the carboxylic acid may range from about 1% to about 2% by weight.

The gel composition may include lactic acid in the range of about 0.1% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, lactic acid may range from about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, lactic acid may range from about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, lactic acid may range from about 1% to about 2% by weight.

The gel composition may include levulinic acid in the range of about 0.1% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, levulinic acid may range from about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, levulinic acid may range from about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, levulinic acid may range from about 1% to about 2% by weight.

Preferably, the gel composition contains some water. The gel composition is more stable when the composition contains some water. Preferably, the gel composition comprises at least about 1% by weight, or at least about 2% by weight, or at least about 5% by weight of water. Preferably, the gel composition contains at least about 10% or at least about 15% water by weight.

Preferably, the gel composition contains from about 8% to about 32% water by weight. Preferably, the gel composition contains from about 15% to about 25% by weight of water. Preferably, the gel composition contains from about 18% to about 22% by weight of water. Preferably, the gel composition contains about 20% by weight of water.

Preferably, the aerosol-forming substrate contains about 150 mg to about 350 mg of the gel composition.

The invention is defined in the claims. However, a non-exhaustive list of non-limiting examples is provided below. Any one or more features of these embodiments may be combined with any one or more features of any other embodiment, implementation, or aspect described herein.

Example Ex1. An aerosol-generating article for generating an inhalable aerosol upon heating, the aerosol-generating article comprising: a mouthpiece assembly comprising a first tube, a second tube and a third tube; and an aerosol-forming substrate; wherein the first pipe abuts on the downstream end face of the second pipe, and the third pipe abuts on the upstream end face of the second pipe; the inner diameter of the second tube is smaller than the inner diameter of the first tube; an inner diameter of the second tube is smaller than an inner diameter of the third tube; wherein the inner diameter of the first tube is at least 3 mm.

Example Ex2. The aerosol-generating article of embodiment Ex1, wherein the inner diameter of the first tube is larger than the inner diameter of the third tube.

Example Ex3. The aerosol-generating article of embodiment Ex1 or Example Ex2, wherein the first tube is a cellulose acetate tube.

Example Ex4. An aerosol-generating article according to any preceding embodiment, wherein the second tube is a cellulose acetate tube.

Example Ex5. An aerosol-generating article according to any preceding embodiment, wherein the third tube is a cellulose acetate tube.

Example Ex6. An aerosol-generating article according to any preceding embodiment comprising a fourth tube positioned within an opening defined by said third tube.

Example Ex7. The aerosol-generating article of embodiment Ex6, wherein the fourth tube is formed of a material that is substantially impermeable to air.

Example Ex8. The aerosol-generating article of embodiment Ex7, wherein the fourth tube is formed of cardboard.

Example Ex9. An aerosol-generating article according to any preceding embodiment comprising a wrapper provided on the outer surface areas of the first tube, the second tube and the third tube.

Example Ex10. The aerosol-generating article of embodiment Ex9, wherein the wrapper is formed of a non-porous material.

Example Ex11. An aerosol-generating article according to any preceding embodiment, wherein the ratio of the inner diameter of the first tube to the inner diameter of the second tube is from 1.2 to 5.

Example Ex12. The aerosol-generating article of embodiment Ex11, wherein the ratio of the inner diameter of the first tube to the inner diameter of the second tube is from 1.8 to 2.5.

Example Ex13. An aerosol-generating article according to any preceding embodiment, wherein the ratio of the inner diameter of the first tube to the inner diameter of the third tube is from 0.5 to 2.

Example Ex14. The aerosol-generating article of embodiment Ex13, wherein the ratio of the inner diameter of the first tube to the inner diameter of the third tube is from 0.8 to 1.2.

Example Ex15. An aerosol-generating article according to any preceding embodiment, wherein the ratio of the inner diameter of the third tube to the inner diameter of the second tube is from 1.5 to 5.

Example Ex16. The aerosol-generating article of embodiment Ex15, wherein the ratio of the inner diameter of the third tube to the inner diameter of the second tube is from 1.8 to 2.5.

Example Ex17. An aerosol-generating article according to any preceding embodiment, wherein the first tube has an inside diameter of 3 mm to 8 mm.

Example Ex18. The aerosol-generating article of embodiment Ex17, wherein the first tube has an inside diameter of 4 mm.

Example Ex19. An aerosol-generating article according to any preceding embodiment, wherein the first tube has a length of 4 mm to 6 mm.

Example Ex20. The aerosol-generating article of embodiment Ex19, wherein the first tube has a length of 5 mm.

Example Ex21. An aerosol-generating article according to any preceding embodiment, wherein the second tube has an inside diameter of 1 mm to 3 mm.

Example Ex22. The aerosol-generating article of embodiment Ex21, wherein the second tube has an inner diameter of 2 mm.

Example Ex23. An aerosol-generating article according to any preceding embodiment, wherein the second tube has a length of 4 mm to 6 mm.

Example Ex24. The aerosol-generating article of embodiment Ex23, wherein the second tube has a length of 5 mm.

Example Ex25. An aerosol-generating article according to any preceding embodiment, wherein the third tube has an inside diameter of between 3 mm and 8 mm.

Example Ex26. The aerosol-generating article of embodiment Ex25, wherein the third tube has an inside diameter of 4 mm.

Example Ex27. An aerosol-generating article according to any preceding embodiment, wherein the third tube has a length of 4 mm to 6 mm.

Example Ex28. The aerosol-generating article of embodiment Ex27, wherein the third tube has a length of 5 mm.

Example Ex29. An aerosol-generating article according to any preceding embodiment comprising a ventilation zone.

Example Ex30. The aerosol-generating article of embodiment Ex29, wherein the ventilation zone comprises one or more rows of ventilation perforations.

Example Ex31. The aerosol-generating article according to embodiment Ex30, wherein the one or more rows of ventilation perforations are formed through a wall surface of at least one of the first tube, the second tube, and the third tube.

Example Ex32. The aerosol-generating article of embodiment Ex31, wherein the one or more rows of ventilation perforations are formed through a wall surface of the third tube.

Now, specific implementations will be described by way of example only with reference to the following examples and accompanying drawings, in which:
1 schematically shows an exploded side cross-sectional view of a mouthpiece assembly for an aerosol-generating article according to the invention;
Figure 2 schematically shows a cross-sectional side view of the mouthpiece assembly of Figure 1;
3 schematically shows a cross-sectional side view of a mouthpiece assembly for an aerosol-generating article according to the present invention;
4 schematically shows a cross-sectional side view of a mouthpiece assembly for an aerosol-generating article according to the present invention;
5 schematically shows a cross-sectional side view of an aerosol-generating article according to the present invention; and
6 schematically shows a cross-sectional side view of an aerosol-generating article according to the present invention.

Some aerosol-generating articles heat rather than burn an aerosol-generating substrate, such as a tobacco-containing substrate. In such aerosol-generating articles, the aerosol is via heat transfer from a heat source, in contact with the heat source, to a physically separate aerosol-generating substrate or material, which may be located within, around, or downstream of the heat source. may occur. During use of the aerosol-generating article, heat is transferred from the heat source to the aerosol-generating substrate capable of releasing volatile compounds. These volatile compounds are entrained in the air drawn through the aerosol-generating article by the user. As the released volatile compounds cool, they condense to form an aerosol. The aerosol can be inhaled through the mouthpiece by the user.

It would be desirable to provide an aerosol-generating article that allows for greater condensation of the released volatile compounds, which can provide increased flow of aerosol through the mouthpiece. This can provide a better user experience.

1 and 2 schematically show an example of a mouthpiece assembly 110 for an aerosol-generating article 112 for generating an inhalable aerosol upon heating.

The mouthpiece assembly 110 has an upstream downstream end 114 and an upstream end 116 . The downstream end 114 of the mouthpiece assembly 110 is the distal region of the mouthpiece assembly 110 through which the aerosol flows after it is generated. The upstream end 116 of the mouthpiece assembly 110 is the distal region of the mouthpiece assembly 110 opposite and/or distal to the downstream end 114 . In some examples, the upstream end 116 of the mouthpiece assembly 110 is the distal region of the mouthpiece assembly through which the generated aerosol flows before flowing through the downstream end 114 .

That is, in use, the generated aerosol flows from the upstream end 116 of the mouthpiece assembly 110 and towards the downstream end 114 of the mouthpiece assembly 10 .

In the example shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 , the mouthpiece assembly 110 includes a first tube 118 , a second tube 120 and a third tube 122 . As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 , in this example, the second tube 120 is positioned between the first tube 118 and the third tube 122 .

In this example, the first tube 118, the second tube 120 and the third tube 122 are each formed from cellulose acetate. That is, in the examples of FIGS. 1 and 2 , the first tube 118, the second tube 120, and the third tube 122 are cellulose acetate tubes, respectively.

In Figure 1, the first tube 118, the second tube 120 and the third tube 122 are separated from each other. 2, as will be described, the first tube 118, the second tube 120 and the third tube 122 are the first tube 118 and the third tube 122 are the second tube 120 It is provided in a configuration bordering on.

Each of the first pipe 118, the second pipe 120, and the third pipe 122 has a downstream end face and an upstream end face. The downstream end face of the tubes 118, 120, 122 is the end face positioned towards the downstream end 114 of the mouthpiece assembly 10. The upstream end face of the tubes 118, 120, 122 is the end face positioned towards the upstream end 116 of the mouthpiece assembly 10.

The first tube 118 has a downstream end face 124 and an upstream end face 126 . The second tube 120 has a downstream end face 128 and an upstream end face 130 . The third pipe 122 has a downstream end face 132 and an upstream end face 134.

In the example shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 , the first tube 118 and the second tube 120 are such that the upstream end face 124 of the first tube 118 is the downstream end face of the second tube 120 ( 126) are arranged to abut.

In the example shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 , the second tube 120 and the third tube 122 are such that the downstream end face 134 of the third tube 122 is the upstream end face of the second tube 120 ( 128) are arranged to abut.

In this example, the first tube 118 borders the second tube 120 and the third tube 122 borders the second tube 120 . In another example, the first, second and third tubes 118, 120 and 122 may be connected or attached to each other. The first, second and third tubes 118, 120 and 122 may be attached to each other, for example by one or more securing elements or adhesive.

The first tube 118 may be considered a "mouthpiece" tube because, in use, the first tube 118 is a component of the mouthpiece assembly 110 that may come into contact with the user's mouth.

The second tube 120 may be considered a "venturi" tube because, in use, the second tube 120 may provide a constriction to the flow path of the generated aerosol, as will be described.

The third tube 122 can be considered a “diffuser” tube because, in use, the third tube 122 can provide a space for the generated aerosol to combine with the air.

The first tube 118 has a first tube inner diameter 136 . The second tube has a second tube inner diameter 138 . The third tube 122 has a third tube inner diameter 140 . In the example shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 , each of the first tube 118 , the second tube 120 and the third tube 122 have the same uniform inner diameter along the entire length of each tube.

The inner diameter of the first tube 118, the second tube 120 or the third tube 122 should be understood to be the diameter or distance between the inner walls of the tubes.

The inner diameter of the second pipe 120 is smaller than the inner diameter of the first pipe 118. That is, the second pipe inner diameter 138 is smaller than the first pipe inner diameter 136 .

The inner diameter of the second pipe 120 is smaller than that of the third pipe 122 . That is, the second tube inner diameter 138 is smaller than the third tube inner diameter 140 .

In some examples, such as those shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 , the inner diameter of the first tube 118 is greater than the inner diameter of the third tube 122 . That is, in some examples, the first tube bore diameter 136 is greater than the third tube bore diameter 140 .

In the example mouthpiece assembly 110 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 , the first tube bore diameter 136 is 4 mm, the second tube bore diameter 138 is 2.5 mm, and the third tube bore diameter is 3.5 mm.

In the example mouthpiece assembly 110 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 , the first tube 118 has a length of 5 mm, the second tube 120 has a length of 5 mm, and the third tube 122 has a length of 5 mm.

3 schematically illustrates another example of a mouthpiece assembly 210 for an aerosol-generating article 112 for generating an inhalable aerosol upon heating.

The example of FIG. 3 has the same components as the examples shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 , and the components are numbered correspondingly.

However, the mouthpiece assembly 210 shown in FIG. 3 has two differences over the mouthpiece assembly 110 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 .

First, in the mouthpiece assembly 210 of FIG. 3, the inner diameter of the first tube 118 is not uniform along its entire length. Instead, the first tube inner diameter 136 varies along the length of the first tube 118 . The inner diameter of the first tube 118 increases from the upstream end face 124 of the first tube 118 to the downstream end face 126 of the first tube 118 . That is, in the example shown in FIG. 3 , the first tube inner diameter 136 is larger at the downstream end face 126 of the first tube 118 than at the upstream end face 124 of the first tube 118 .

Second, in the mouthpiece assembly 210 of FIG. 3, the inner diameter of the third tube 122 is not uniform along its entire length. Instead, the third tube inner diameter 140 varies along the length of the third tube 122 . The inner diameter of the third tube 122 decreases from the upstream end face 132 of the third tube 122 to the downstream end face 134 of the third tube 122 . That is, in the example shown in FIG. 3 , the third pipe inner diameter 140 is smaller at the downstream end face 134 of the third pipe 122 than at the upstream end face 132 of the third pipe 122 .

In the example of FIG. 3 , the inner diameter of the first tube 118 is the average diameter or distance between the inner walls of the first tube 118 . The inner diameter of the third tube 122 is the average diameter or distance between the inner walls of the third tube 122 . The inner diameter of the second pipe 120 is the diameter or distance between the inner walls of the second pipe 120.

4 schematically shows another example of a mouthpiece assembly 310 for an aerosol-generating article 112 for generating an inhalable aerosol upon heating.

The example of FIG. 4 has the same components as the example shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, and the components are numbered correspondingly.

However, the mouthpiece assembly 310 shown in FIG. 4 has differences over the mouthpiece assembly 110 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 .

In the mouthpiece assembly 310 of FIG. 4 , the inner diameter of the first tube 118 is not uniform along its entire length. Instead, the first tube inner diameter 136 varies along the length of the first tube 118 . The inner diameter of the first tube 118 increases from the upstream end face 124 of the first tube 118 to the downstream end face 126 of the first tube 118 . That is, in the example shown in FIG. 4 , the first tube inner diameter 136 is larger at the downstream end face 126 of the first tube 118 than at the upstream end face 124 of the first tube 118 .

In the example of FIG. 4 , the inner diameter of the first tube 118 is the average diameter or distance between the inner walls of the first tube 118 . The inner diameter of the second pipe 120 is the diameter or distance between the inner walls of the second pipe 120. The inner diameter of the third pipe 122 is the diameter or distance between the inner walls of the second pipe 120.

5 schematically shows an example of an aerosol-generating article 112 . In the example of FIG. 5 , the aerosol-generating article 112 includes the mouthpiece assembly 110 shown schematically in FIGS. 1 and 2 .

The aerosol-generating article 112 also includes an aerosol-forming substrate 142 . The aerosol-forming substrate includes vaporizable components to form an aerosol. In the example of FIG. 5 , the aerosol-forming substrate 142 is a liquid nicotine formulation. In other examples, the aerosol-forming substrate 142 may be of a different formulation. In another example, the aerosol-forming substrate 142 may be a gel formulation.

In the example shown in FIG. 5 , the aerosol-generating article 112 includes a fourth tube 144 . The example in the drawing also includes a fifth tube 146. The fourth tube 144 is arranged concentrically with the first tube 118 , the second tube 120 and the third tube 122 . The fifth tube 146 is arranged concentrically with the first tube 118 , the second tube 120 and the third tube 122 .

In this example, the fourth tube 144 is provided at the central opening of the third tube 122 and the fifth tube 146 . In another example, the fourth tube 144 may be provided only in the central opening of the third tube 122 . The fourth tube 144 abuts the third tube 122 and the fifth tube 146 . In another example, fourth tube 144 is attached to third tube 122 and fifth tube 146 by one or more securing elements, or adhesives.

In some examples, fourth tube 144 may be formed from a material that is substantially impermeable to air. For example, the fourth tube 144 may be formed of cardboard.

In the example shown in FIG. 5 , the fifth tube 146 abuts the third tube 122 . In another example, the third tube 122 and the fifth tube 146 may be connected or attached to each other. The third tube 122 and the fifth tube 146 may be attached to each other, for example by one or more fixing elements or adhesive. The third tube 122 and the fifth tube 146 may be arranged such that an upstream end face of the fifth tube 146 abuts a downstream end face 132 of the third tube 122 . In the example of FIG. 5 , the fifth tube 146 has the same inner diameter as the third tube 122 . Thus, the fifth tube 146 has an inner diameter of 3.5 mm. In another example, the fifth tube 146 may have an inner diameter different from that of the third tube 122 .

In the example of FIG. 5 , a space 148 is defined in the aerosol-generating article 112 . A space 148 is located between the fifth tube 146 and the aerosol-forming substrate 142 . In examples that do not include a fifth tube 146 , a space 148 may be defined between the third tube 122 and the aerosol-forming substrate 142 . In some examples, space 148 may provide an area where vaporized volatile compounds of aerosol-forming substrate 142 may cool and nucleate into an aerosol.

The aerosol-generating article 112 shown in FIG. 5 also includes an upstream element 150 . Upstream element 150 is located upstream of aerosol-forming substrate 142 . In this example, the upstream element 150 abuts the aerosol-forming substrate 142 . In the example of FIG. 5 , the upstream element 150 is an annular plug of fibrous filtering material. The upstream element 150 in FIG. 5 has a length of 5 mm. The RTD of the upstream element 150 in FIG. 5 is about 130 mmH2O.

In the example of FIG. 5 , the aerosol-generating article 112 also includes a wrapper 152 . A wrapper 152 is provided on an outer surface area of a component of the aerosol-generating article 112 . Wrapper 152 partially surrounds at least some of the components of aerosol-generating article 112 . In this example, wrapper 152 partially surrounds all components of aerosol-generating article 112 . 5 , in some examples, wrapper 152 is all components of aerosol-generating article 112 except for the downstream end face of first tube 118 and the upstream end face of upstream element 150. completely surrounds

The example aerosol-generating article 112 shown in FIG. 5 also includes a ventilation zone. Ventilation zones are provided at locations along the aerosol-generating article 112 . In this example, a ventilation zone is provided in the region of the third tube 122 . In this example, the ventilation zone is a row of circumferential perforations 154 formed through wrapper 152 and third tube 122 . The perforations 154 allow air to flow from the exterior of the aerosol-generating article 112 through the perforations 154 and into the opening defined by the third tube 122 .

6 schematically shows an alternative embodiment of an aerosol-generating article 212 . In the example of FIG. 6 , the aerosol-generating article 212 includes the mouthpiece assembly 110 shown schematically in FIGS. 1 and 2 .

In the example aerosol-generating article 212 shown in FIG. 6 , the structure of the upstream end 116 is different from the structure of the upstream end 116 of the example aerosol-generating article 112 shown in FIG. 5 , as will be explained. do.

In the example of FIG. 6 , the upstream element 150 is disposed immediately upstream of the aerosol-forming substrate 142 and abuts the aerosol-forming substrate 142 . Upstream element 150 includes an annular plug comprising a fibrous filtering material. In this example, upstream element 150 comprises an annular plug of cellulose acetate surrounded by a rigid wrapper. In the example of FIG. 6 , the upstream element 150 has a length of 5 mm, and the RTD of the upstream element 150 is 30 mmH2O.

In the example of FIG. 6 , the aerosol-generating article 212 also includes a recess 156 . Recess 156 extends from upstream end 116 of aerosol-generating article 212 through upstream element 150 and through at least a portion of aerosol-forming substrate 142 .

Recess 156 is located along the central axis of aerosol-generating article 212 . In the example of FIG. 6 , the concave portion 156 has a circular cross-sectional shape. In the illustrated example, recess 156 passes through both an annular plug comprising fibrous filtering material of upstream element 150 and an annular plug of porous media of aerosol-forming substrate 142 to thereby form upstream element 150 and aerosol. It extends to the full length of all of the base material 142. In this example, recess 156 has a length of 15 mm, which corresponds to the combined length of upstream element 150 and aerosol-forming substrate 142 . In the example of Figure 6, the concave portion has a diameter of 4 mm.

The aerosol-generating article 212 of FIG. 6 has a wrapper 152 . A wrapper 152 is provided on the longitudinal inner surface of the recess. A wrapper 152 extends the entire length of the recess 156 and is provided on the entire lengthwise inner surface of the recess 156 .

In the example shown in FIG. 6 , the downstream end of recess 156 is defined by wrapper 152 . This is accomplished by mechanically folding wrapper 152 at the downstream end of recess 156 .

Wrapper 152 extends from an upstream end of recess 156 to an upstream end of aerosol-generating article 212 . Wrapper 152 also extends over the entire outer surface of aerosol-generating article 212 . In this manner, the wrapper 212 serves to connect the various components of the aerosol-generating article 212 .

Wrapper 152 may include a layer of cellulosic-based paper co-laminated with a layer of aluminum foil. In this example, the wrapper 152 is arranged so that the paper layer is on the outer surface of the aerosol-generating article 212 .

The use of the aerosol-generating article 112 shown in FIG. 5 will now be described.

In use, the aerosol-generating article 112 is inserted into the aerosol-generating device. When the aerosol-generating article 112 is in the insertion position of the aerosol-generating device, the heating element of the aerosol-generating device is adjacent to the aerosol-forming substrate 142 . When the aerosol-generating device is activated, the heating element is heated. The increased temperature of the heating element heats the aerosol-forming substrate 142 . The volatile compounds within the aerosol-forming substrate 142 then evaporate to form a vapor, which cools and nucleates into an aerosol within the space 148 between the fifth tube 146 and the aerosol-forming substrate 142.

As the user draws (i.e., inhales) the downstream end 114 of the aerosol-generating device 112, air is drawn through the perforations 154 to a fourth It is sucked into tube 144. Air drawn into the aerosol-generating article 112 through the apertures 154 entrains the aerosol from the space 148 . The fourth tube 144 prevents any entrained aerosol from being lost into the structure of the third tube 122 or the fifth tube 146.

The air with the entrained aerosol then passes through the third tube 122 into the second tube 120 due to the pressure regime inside the aerosol-generating article 112 . The narrower inner diameter of the second tube 120 provides a venturi effect, which causes air with entrained aerosols to be compressed while the air is within the second tube 120 .

As the user inhales from the downstream end 114 of the aerosol-generating device 112, air with the entrained aerosol then flows from the second tube 120 into the first tube 118. When air with entrained aerosol is drawn from the second tube 120 into the first tube 118, the wider diameter of the first tube 118 causes the air to expand and cool, which causes more droplets to drop into the aerosol. to form within The aerosol can then be subsequently inhaled by the user through the downstream end of the first tube 118 .

In normal use of the aerosol-generating article 112, a user inhales an aerosol by engaging his/her mouth with the first tube 118 at the downstream end 114 of the aerosol-generating article 112. In the example of FIG. 5 , since the first tube 118 is made of cellulose acetate, the first tube 118 is rigid and elastic, which provides an improved user experience.

The first tube 118 formed of a rigid material such as cellulose acetate also ensures that the user can properly handle the aerosol-generating article 112.

The first tube 118 formed from a material that is substantially impermeable to water, such as cellulose acetate, is also less sensitive to moisture from the user's mouth.

For purposes of this description and appended claims, except where otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing amounts, quantities, percentages, etc., are to be understood as modified in all instances by the term "about." In addition, all ranges are inclusive of the disclosed maximum and minimum points and are also encompassed therein any intermediate ranges that may or may not be specifically recited herein. Accordingly, in this context, the number A is understood as A ± 10% of A. Accordingly, in this context, the number A may be considered to include a numerical value that is within the usual standard error for measurement of the property that the number A modifies. In some instances as used in the appended claims, the number A may deviate by the percentages recited above, provided that the amount of deviation from A does not materially affect the basic and novel feature(s) of the claimed invention. In addition, all ranges are inclusive of the disclosed maximum and minimum points and are also encompassed therein any intermediate ranges that may or may not be specifically recited herein.

Claims (12)

An aerosol-generating article for generating an inhalable aerosol upon heating, the aerosol-generating article comprising:
a mouthpiece assembly comprising a first tube, a second tube, and a third tube; and
comprising an aerosol-forming substrate;
the first pipe abuts on the downstream end face of the second pipe, and the third pipe abuts on the upstream end face of the second pipe;
the inner diameter of the second tube is smaller than the inner diameter of the first tube;
an inner diameter of the second tube is smaller than an inner diameter of the third tube;
The inner diameter of the first tube is 3 mm to 8 mm,
The ratio of the inner diameter of the first pipe to the inner diameter of the second pipe is 1.2 to 5;
wherein the ratio of the inner diameter of the first tube to the inner diameter of the third tube is from 0.5 to 2. 2. An aerosol-generating article according to claim 1, wherein the inner diameter of the first tube is greater than the inner diameter of the third tube. 3. An aerosol-generating article according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first tube is a cellulose acetate tube. 4. An aerosol-generating article according to any preceding claim, wherein the second tube is a cellulose acetate tube. 5. An aerosol-generating article according to any preceding claim, wherein the third tube is a cellulose acetate tube. 6. An aerosol-generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the ratio of the inner diameter of the third tube to the inner diameter of the second tube is from 1.5 to 5. 7. An aerosol-generating article according to any preceding claim, wherein the first tube has an inside diameter of 4 mm. 8. An aerosol-generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the second tube has an inside diameter of 1 mm to 3 mm. 9. An aerosol-generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the third tube has an inner diameter of 3 mm to 8 mm. 10. An aerosol-generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 9 comprising a ventilation zone. 11. An aerosol-generating article according to claim 10, wherein the ventilation zone comprises one or more rows of ventilation perforations. 12. The aerosol-generating article according to claim 11, wherein at least one row of ventilation perforations is formed through a wall surface of at least one of the first tube, the second tube, and the third tube.

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