RU2783729C2 - Filler for electronic cigarettes (options) and cartridge for electronic cigarettes - Google Patents

Abstract

FIELD: tobacco industry.

SUBSTANCE: group of inventions relates to options of implementation of a filler for electronic cigarettes and a cartridge for electronic cigarettes. The filler for electronic cigarettes contains a rectangular sheet element with a set of slots in its surface, while provided that a longitudinal direction of an electronic cigarette is the first direction, and a direction located in a plane, perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, is the second direction, the specified set of slots includes one or more first slots along the first direction from one side of the sheet element, which passes in the second direction.

EFFECT: homogenous airflow is provided during the use.

13 cl, 18 dwg, 7 ex

Description

The field of technology to which the invention belongs

[0001]

The present invention relates to an electronic cigarette filler and an electronic cigarette cartridge.

State of the art invention

[0002]

In recent years, in order to meet the smoking cessation trend, electronic cigarettes are widely used to enjoy cigarettes by inhaling the vapor of tobacco components generated by heating a cartridge that contains tobacco components without using combustion. A disclosed cigarette filler is known to be stuffed into such an electronic cigarette cartridge which is formed by crimping and assembling sheets containing an aerosol-forming agent (Patent Document 1). It is also known to disclose a smoking article having a cylindrical body which contains a rolled sheet (patent document 2). Furthermore, the invention of a rod for use in smoking articles is known which includes an assembled sheet of homogenized tobacco material (see, for example, Patent Document 3). The rod for smoking articles described in Patent Document 3 is obtained by compacting a continuous sheet of homogenized tobacco material, collecting it, and then rolling it with a rolling machine to form a continuous rod. The continuous rod is cut into a plurality of individual rods. The rod for smoking articles described in Patent Document 3 has a more uniform density than a rod that contains fine particles of homogenized tobacco material.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1: Japanese Publication of Unexamined Patent Application No. 2017-524368

Patent Document 2: International Publication WO 2010/113702

Patent Document 3: Japanese Publication of Unexamined Patent Application No. 2014-515274

The essence of the invention

Objectives of the invention

[0004]

It is an object of the present invention to provide a high quality electronic cigarette filler and an electronic cigarette cartridge suitable for electronic cigarettes, able to prevent the filler from falling out and create a uniform airflow during use, thereby maintaining a stable inhalation quality.

Problem solver

[0005]

To achieve the object, the present invention provides an electronic cigarette filler that includes a sheet-like member, wherein, provided that the longitudinal direction of the electronic cigarette is the first direction and the in-plane direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction is the second direction, a slot is made in the leaf-like element along the first direction.

[0006]

According to a preferred embodiment, the slot is made to a depth that does not penetrate the sheet material.

[0007]

According to a preferred embodiment, the sheet-like element is rectangular as a whole and contains a plurality of said slots in one side thereof.

[0008]

According to a preferred embodiment, the slits include first slits that are made along a first direction on one side of the sheet-like member that extends in a second direction.

[0009]

According to a preferred embodiment, the slits include second slits that are made along a first direction on the other side of the sheet-like member, with the first slits and the second slits alternately arranged in the second direction.

[0010]

According to a preferred embodiment, the slit is positioned such that the extent of its component along the first direction exceeds the extent of the component along the second direction.

[0011]

According to a preferred embodiment, the electronic cigarette filler is fixed to the inside of the wrapper.

[0012]

According to a further preferred embodiment, the electronic cigarette filler is packed so as to form an air passage in the first direction.

[0013]

According to another preferred embodiment, the sheet-like element is folded or rolled up to form an air passage.

[0014]

In accordance with another preferred embodiment, the area of the end shape of the filler, as viewed from one end, is substantially uniform.

[0015]

In accordance with another preferred embodiment, the area of the end shape of the filler, as viewed from one end, increases from the center to the periphery.

[0016]

According to a further preferred embodiment, the slits are provided at a predetermined interval, in the second direction, the sheet-like element is unbroken over its entire area due to the uncut portion, and when the sheet-like element is used for an aerosol-forming substrate, the slits are provided at one end side and the other end sides of the aerosol-forming substrate.

[0017]

In order to achieve the above, according to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided an electronic cigarette cartridge that includes an electronic cigarette filler according to any of the above embodiments.

Invention Effects

[0018]

According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a high quality electronic cigarette filler, and an electronic cigarette filler and cartridge suitable for electronic cigarettes. In particular, the filler can be prevented from falling out, and the cut portion forms a uniform air passage that guides the direction of the airflow when the electronic cigarette cartridge is used, resulting in a stable inhalation quality.

Brief description of the drawings

[0019]

[Fig. 1] FIG. 1 is an explanatory drawing showing an example of how an electronic cigarette cartridge is used.

[Fig. 2] FIG. 2 is an explanatory drawing showing a construction example of an electronic cigarette cartridge.

[Fig. 3] FIG. 3 is an explanatory drawing showing an aerosol-forming substrate filler.

[Fig. 4] FIG. 4 is an explanatory drawing showing an example of how a sheet is threaded.

[Fig. 5] FIG. 5 is a flowchart of a method for manufacturing an electronic cigarette filler and the like. according to the embodiment.

[Fig. 6-1] FIG. 6A is a schematic perspective view showing a portion of a non-tobacco herbal composition sheet with slits made in the thickness direction, FIG. 6B is a schematic plan view showing a non-tobacco herbal composition sheet with slits made in the thickness direction.

[Fig. 6-2] FIG. 6C is a schematic plan view showing an electronic cigarette filler according to the embodiment, FIG. 6D and 6E are schematic plan views showing each view of the electronic cigarette filler according to the modification.

[Fig. 6-3] FIG. 6F-6H are schematic plan views depicting each electronic cigarette filler according to the modification.

[Fig. 6-4] FIG. 6I-6J are schematic plan views depicting each electronic cigarette filler according to the modification.

[Fig. 7] FIG. 7 is an explanatory drawing showing an example of forming an electronic cigarette cartridge.

[Fig. 8] FIG. 8 is an explanatory drawing for describing modifications of an electronic cigarette cartridge.

[Fig. 9] FIG. 9 is an explanatory drawing showing an example of a sheet in which a slot has been made.

[Fig. 10] FIG. 10 is an explanatory drawing for describing the aerosol-forming substrate from the center to the periphery.

[Fig. 11] FIG. 11 is an explanatory drawing showing an example in which the slot is formed in the diametrical direction on one end side.

[Fig. 12] FIG. 12 is an explanatory drawing showing an example in which the slit is formed on one end side substantially perpendicular to the fold line of the folded sheet.

[Fig. 13] FIG. 13 is an explanatory drawing showing an example of a sheet in which slits are made.

[Fig. 14] FIG. 14 is an explanatory drawing showing an example of cutting a slitted sheet.

[Fig. 15] FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an apparatus for manufacturing an aerosol-forming substrate.

Embodiments of the invention

[0020]

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the invention is not limited to the following embodiments. It should be noted that like elements are denoted by the same symbols in the description and in the drawings, and the same description may not be repeated. In addition, the dimensional relationships in the drawings are given by way of example only and without any limitation, and the illustrations may be partially exaggerated for the sake of explanation.

[0021]

The following describes an example of the method for forming a sheet-like filler used in the present embodiment. Examples of materials for the aerosol-forming material include an aerosol-forming agent, a support for holding the aerosol-forming agent, and a fragrance additive used as needed.

[0022]

Various parts of tobacco plants or non-tobacco plants (eg, root, stem, leaf, flower, fruit, bark, seed, tree trunk, tree branch, etc.) can be used as a support for holding the aerosol-forming agent. Preferably, this part is used in a dried and pulverized state or the like.

[0023]

In addition to the plant parts described above, examples of the binder or support for retaining the aerosol-forming agent further include: gums such as guar gum, xanthan gum, gum arabic, and locust bean gum; cellulosic binders such as hydroxypropylcellulose, carboxymethylcellulose, hydroxyethylcellulose, methylcellulose and ethylcellulose; polysaccharides such as glucomannan glucomannan, starch, organic acids such as alginic acid, sodium alginate, organic acid conjugate base such as agar and pectin; and their combinations.

[0024]

As the aerosol-forming agent, glycerin, propylene glycol, sorbitol, triethylene glycol, lactic acid, diacetin (glycerol diacetate), triacetin (glycerol triacetate), triethylene glycol diacetate, triethyl citrate, isopropyl myristate, methyl stearate, dimethyl dodecanedioate, dimethyltetradecanedioate and the like can be used. Preferably, glycerin and propylene glycol are used. These substances are preferably used in a concentration of from 1 wt.% to 80 wt.%, and, moreover, preferably, preferably used in a concentration of from 10 wt.% to 40 wt.%, relative to the filler for electronic cigarettes.

[0025]

In addition to the aforementioned support for the aerosol-forming agent and the aerosol-forming agent, a flavoring agent can also be preferably used, which adds aroma, if necessary. Examples of the flavor additive include: mint, cocoa, coffee, tea extract, and the like.

[0026]

When the aerosol-forming material is made using the above materials, various additives such as water, ethyl alcohol, thickener, and the like can be added to the above materials.

[0027]

When formed into a sheet, the filler can be obtained by, for example, forming a sheet that contains the above-described tobacco materials and adding an aerosol-forming agent to the formed sheet, or mixing the aerosol-forming agent, cellulose fibers and tobacco powder into a pulp and shaping it to become a sheet.

[0028]

The sheet used in this embodiment is prepared as follows: cellulose fibers, a binder, black tea leaves, an aerosol-forming agent, and a fragrance are mixed to form a pulp, and the pulp is poured onto a metal plate and dried. The thickness has a value of 0.2 mm. According to the present invention, the sheet preferably has a thickness in the range of 0.1 mm to 0.5 mm.

[0029]

Described below are some examples of methods for making an aerosol-forming substrate used in an embodiment that includes a slotted sheet-like member as a filler.

[0030]

For example, in one method, a sheet having predetermined slits is processed to a desired shape to form a sheet-like element having slits, and the sheet-like element is stuffed into a wrapper element (151) or the like, as shown in FIG. 3, 4 and 12. In another method, shown in FIG. 2 and 5, the prepared sheet is processed into the desired shape, then the sheet is slitted to form a slitted sheet, and the sheet is stuffed into a wrapper (151) or the like. In a further possible method, for example, the prepared sheet is processed into a desired shape and made into a form to be stuffed, the sheet is then slitted and the sheet is stuffed into a wrap sheet (150) or the like as a sheet-like filler having slits. In addition, in an example of a possible method, after the prepared sheet is processed into a desired shape and filled as a filler into a wrap sheet (150) or the like, slits are made to obtain a sheet-like filler having slits.

[0031]

In this case, the sheet is slit, but is still one piece due to its uncut portion.

[0032]

In a preferred manufacturing method, the above steps of preparing the sheet, creating the slits, processing the sheet to the required shape, and printing the sheet are performed continuously. It is also preferable to perform two or more steps in parallel. This order of execution of stages increases the efficiency of production.

[0033]

Examples of tools used to create slits include cutting inserts, razor blades, circular knives, and the like. In one preferred embodiment, these tools are arranged in parallel to simultaneously make the required number of cuts.

[0034]

The slits are preferably made at intervals W (shown in FIGS. 9, 13 and 14) greater than the thickness of the sheet. The interval W is preferably in the range, for example, from 0.5 mm to 10 mm. More preferably, if the interval W is not less than 1 mm, the sections separated by the slits are stable and do not fall apart, and if the interval does not exceed 5 mm, then during insertion of the heating element shown in FIG. 1, the filler is retarded from moving in the insertion direction, which enhances the effects of the present invention.

[0035]

With regard to the extent of the slit made in the sheet, as shown in FIG. 9, for example, when the extent is not less than 20% of the total extent of the sheet in the Y-direction, the present invention can be more effective when applied to the heating element insert (211) shown in FIG. 1. Efficiency increases if the length is at least 50%. In addition, when the extension does not exceed 90%, the filler is prevented from moving in the insertion direction at the same time as the insertion of the heating element (211). In addition, if the extension is not less than 90%, then the filler used may be prevented from being partially shed when the electronic cigarette cartridge is removed from the body of the electronic cigarette after use.

[0036]

While the spacing and extent of slits made in a sheet have been described above, the slits may have different lengths and be performed at different intervals in the same sheet.

[0037]

In this embodiment, when the filler is fixed to the wrapper (151) shown in FIG. 3, 4, and 10-12, the filler used is effectively blocked from falling out when the electronic cigarette cartridge is removed from the electronic cigarette body after use. This is because, after using an electronic cigarette cartridge, the filler is damaged by heat and may stick to the heating element (211) shown in FIG. 1, which causes the filler to fall out after use. Dropped-out filler contaminates the inside of the e-cigarette body, resulting in more frequent cleaning and thus creating problems with consumer properties.

[0038]

Fig. 1 shows an example of using an electronic cigarette cartridge (100). The electronic cigarette cartridge (100) is fixed to the electronic cigarette body (200) when used by the user. The housing (200) of the electronic cigarette has a containing portion (210) for inserting the cartridge (100) for electronic cigarettes.

[0039]

The heating element (211) is located in the center of the lower part of the containing area (210). The heating element (211) includes a pin-shaped or blade-shaped element with a sharp end and is inserted into the aerosol-forming substrate (110) to heat the aerosol-forming substrate (110). Specifically, when the electronic cigarette cartridge (100) is packed into the containing portion (210) of the electronic cigarette body (200), the heating element (211) is inserted into the center of the aerosol-forming substrate (110).

[0040]

The heating element (211) generates heat directly or indirectly from the energy supplied from a battery (not shown) located in the body (200) of the electronic cigarette. Heating the aerosol-forming substrate (110) with the heat of the heating element (211) generates aerosol-containing aromatic components. The generated aerosol is transferred to the mouthpiece (140) via the support element (300) and the transition element (130) (described later). When the user inhales the aerosol from the side of the mouthpiece (140), the aromatic components enter the user's mouth. Hereinafter, the aerosol-forming substrate side (110) of the electronic cigarette cartridge is referred to as the "inlet side" (10), and the mouthpiece side is referred to as the "outlet side" (20) for the convenience of describing the embodiment. In addition, the input side (10) may be referred to as "one end side", and the output side (20) may be referred to as "other end side".

[0041]

Although in FIG. 1 depicts a heating element (211) that includes a single pin or blade element, in another example, the heating element (211) may include a plurality of pin or blade elements.

[0042]

Fig. 2 shows an example of the construction of an electronic cigarette cartridge (100). An electronic cigarette cartridge (100) includes an aerosol-forming substrate (110), a support member (300), an adapter member (130) and a mouthpiece (140), which are located in the above order from the side where the heating element (211) is inserted, shown in fig. 1, i.e. from the inlet side (10) to the outlet side (20), and has, for example, a rod-like or cylindrical appearance.

[0043]

The support element (300) supports the aerosol-forming substrate (110). The support member (300) is positioned against the aerosol-forming substrate (110) and its side (160) is in contact with the wrap sheet (150) located around the circumference of the electronic cigarette cartridge (100). The side (160) is fixed to the inner surface of the wrapping sheet (150), for example, with an adhesive.

[0044]

The support member (300) may be suitably formed using, for example, silicone; however, this element is not limited thereto, and other materials having high thermal resistance can also be used.

[0045]

The aerosol-forming substrate (110) is located at the inlet side (10) end of the electronic cigarette cartridge (100), while the mouthpiece (140) is located at the outlet side (20) end. The direction that connects the locations of the aerosol-forming substrate (110) and the mouthpiece (140), i.e., the direction in which the four components: aerosol-forming substrate (110), support element (300), transition element (130) and mouthpiece (140) , arranged adjacent to each other, is defined as the longitudinal direction of the electronic cigarette cartridge (100).

[0046]

Aerosol-forming substrate (110), support element (300), transition element (130) and mouthpiece (140) are wrapped with a wrapping sheet (150). For example, the longitudinal direction of the aerosol-forming substrate (110) is parallel to the longitudinal direction of the electronic cigarette cartridge (100). In addition, the longitudinal direction of the electronic cigarette cartridge (100) and the longitudinal direction of the aerosol-forming substrate (110) are parallel to the Y-axis direction with respect to the electronic cigarette filler shown, for example, in FIG. 6B and 6C.

[0047]

The aerosol-forming substrate (110) includes an electronic cigarette filler and, for example, forms aerosol-containing flavor components and the like when heated. from a plant used as a filling material for electronic cigarettes.

[0048]

The support element (300) is made of, for example, silicone and serves as a support for the aerosol-forming substrate (110). The side of the support element (300) is fixed to the inner surface of the wrapping sheet (150), for example, with an adhesive. The support element (300) may not necessarily be made of silicone and may be made of other materials having very high thermal resistance.

[0049]

As shown, the support member (300) has a through hole in the center for airflow. The aerosol formed in the aerosol-forming substrate (110) flows through the through hole and flows to the mouthpiece (140). The support member (300) may be provided with a cutout, an airflow through hole, or the like on its side.

[0050]

The adapter (130) includes a hollow tubular member or roll of polymer sheet crimped in the longitudinal direction of the electronic cigarette cartridge (100) and, for example, cools the aerosol flowing to the mouthpiece (140).

[0051]

The mouthpiece (140) is made of paper or the like, for example. The mouthpiece (140) may include a cellulose acetate filter to remove fine particles. The user inhales the aromatic components that have passed through the filter of the mouthpiece (140).

[0052]

It should be noted that the transition element (130) can be dispensed with in order to reduce the number of components. The removal of the transition element (130) increases the gas permeability, which facilitates the flow of the generated aerosol towards the exit side (20) and thus makes it easier for the user to inhale the aroma components.

[0053]

In an exemplary design, the transition member (130) is dispensed with and the mouthpiece (140) having an extended length in the longitudinal direction of the electronic cigarette cartridge (100) is adjacent to the support member (300). In this case, for example, the cellulose acetate filter can also be provided with a cooling function.

[0054]

In addition, the wrap sheet (150) can also serve as a wrapping member for wrapping the electronic cigarette filler. This stabilizes the flow of the aerosol, making it easier for the user to inhale the flavor components.

[0055]

Fig. 3 shows an example in which the filler (111) formed as an aerosol-forming substrate (110) is a roll of sheet, i.e. the filler is a roll made by rolling a sheet approximately around the central axis (112) of the cross section of the electronic cigarette cartridge. In this example, the filler is loaded into the wrapper (151) which has a cylindrical shape. The wrapper (151) can be a sheet of paper, such as cigarette paper, rolled into a cylinder shape. The wrapping sheet (150) can also serve as a wrapping element (151). This stabilizes the airflow, making it easier for the user to inhale the aroma components from the aerosol-forming substrate (110).

[0056]

Fig. 4(1) to 4(4) are explanatory drawings showing examples of how a sheet is filled as a filler. Fig. 4(1)-4(4) each depict an aerosol-forming substrate (110) as viewed from the inlet side (10) or in cross section in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal centerline of the electronic cigarette cartridge.

[0057]

Fig. 4(1) shows an example in which the sheet is rolled like a norimaki roll and stuffed into the wrapper (151) as a filler (111).

[0058]

In FIG. 4(2), the sheet is folded into a size substantially equal to or slightly smaller than the inner diameter of the wrapper element (151), and the folded sheet is stuffed into the wrapper element (151) as filler (111) in such a way that the direction of the fold line extends along the longitudinal direction of the electronic cigarette cartridge.

[0059]

In FIG. 4(3), the sheet is folded to a size larger than the inside diameter of the wrapper (151). In addition, the rolled sheet is bent or warped substantially at its center and is packed such that the direction of the fold line runs along the longitudinal direction of the electronic cigarette cartridge.

[0060]

In FIG. 4(4), the process includes, for example, crimping, and the sheet is folded with a width smaller than the inner diameter of the wrapper (151). The rolled sheet is packed such that the direction of the fold line extends along the longitudinal direction of the electronic cigarette cartridge. In addition, it may be preferred that in the above examples in FIG. 4(1) - 4(3) a crimped sheet was used; wherein the reduced sheet may be rolled, folded, or bent or warped after folding, as shown in FIG. 4(1) - 4(3).

[0061]

Fig. 5 is a flowchart of a method for manufacturing an electronic cigarette filler and the like. according to the embodiment. A description of the method for manufacturing an electronic cigarette filler according to the embodiment will be given with reference to FIG. 5.

[0062]

According to an embodiment, a method for manufacturing an electronic cigarette filler is performed as follows: in step S101, materials are prepared; in step S102, the prepared materials are mixed to form a non-tobacco herbal composition; in step S103, the non-tobacco herbal composition formulated in step S102 is processed to produce an electronic cigarette filler.

[0063]

Using the electronic cigarette filler obtained in step S103, an electronic cigarette cartridge can be manufactured in a step which in this case is step S104.

[0064]

The materials preparation step (Step S101) includes three steps S101a, S101b, and S101c: a step of drying and grinding non-tobacco plants or the like as a flavor source (Step S101a), a menthol dissolution step (Step S101b), and a materials preparation step , for example, an aerosol-forming substance (step S101c). Steps S101a-S101c may be performed in any order. The steps can also be performed in parallel.

[0065]

Next, the step of drying and grinding non-tobacco plants (step S101a) will be described. Non-tobacco plants are dried and then crushed. For example, drying is performed by heating in an oven. The drying temperature is preferably in the range of 60°C to 80°C. In this temperature range, it is easy to provide the required moisture content, while eliminating the loss (sublimation) of the necessary aromatic components. When the drying temperature is not lower than 65°C, the required moisture content is more easily secured. When the temperature does not exceed 75°C, the loss of aromatic components can be additionally prevented.

[0066]

Grinding is carried out using, for example, a crusher-mixer. Parts of non-tobacco plants (leaves, seeds, dried fruits, stems, bark, roots, etc.) used as raw materials are processed into the desired crushed product to formulate a composition based on non-tobacco vegetable raw materials. At this stage, it is desirable to adjust the moisture content to a level suitable for absorbing or retaining components such as water and the aerosol-forming agent prepared in step S101c, for example.

[0067]

When non-tobacco plants do not need to be dried, they can be ground without drying. If the raw material does not need to be dried or ground and can be used without any processing, step S101a can be skipped and the process can proceed to the mixing step (step S102).

[0068]

It should be noted that, after drying and grinding, non-tobacco plants preferably contain no more than 5 wt.% moisture. This facilitates pulping in the mixing step (step S102). More preferably, when, after drying and grinding, non-tobacco plants contain no more than 3 wt.% moisture. It is also preferred that, after drying and grinding, the non-tobacco plants have a moisture content of at least 0.1% by weight. At the same time, they can be stored in a hydrophilic state.

[0069]

In addition, the drying and grinding step (step S101a) may include a sieving step for screening the dried ground product. By applying the sieving step, non-tobacco plants and the like can be transferred to the mixing step (step S102). with the required dispersion of particles.

[0070]

In one example, after drying at 70° C. in an oven, the tea leaves were crushed using a crusher-mixer and sifted through an 80 mesh sieve. Their moisture content was 2 mass%.

[0071]

Next, the menthol dissolution step (step S101b) will be described. In step S101b, menthol, lower alcohol, and the water-insoluble cross-linked polymer are weighed and mixed to dissolve the menthol. Preferably, after the menthol is dissolved in the lower alcohol, the water-insoluble cross-linked polymer is introduced into it and stirred. The blending of menthol, a lower alcohol, and a water-insoluble cross-linked polymer has the effect of reducing the loss of menthol.

[0072]

Menthol does not have to be derived from natural sources and can be synthetic. In addition, peppermint, mint, peppermint oil, and other materials that contain menthol can also be used.

[0073]

The lower alcohol is a solvent which dissolves menthol, and the use of ethyl alcohol is particularly preferred.

[0074]

The term "water-insoluble cross-linked polymer" refers to a substance obtained by cross-linking a non-crosslinked polymer that is water-soluble to make it water-insoluble and swollen. Obviously, it is desirable that a given polymer swell without dissolving in a lower alcohol, and such a polymer is chosen. The water-insoluble cross-linked polymer contains hydrophilic and hydrophobic parts. It is assumed that the hydrophilic part contributes to the swelling and turns to menthol, thereby reducing the loss of menthol. Preferred examples of the water-insoluble crosslinked polymer may include: polyvinylpolypyrrolidone, i.e. cross-linked polyvinylpyrrolidone; and a cross-linked polysaccharide obtained by cross-linking a water-soluble polysaccharide to make it water-insoluble, such as a polysaccharide cross-linked with epoxy groups, a polysaccharide cross-linked with ester groups, and a polysaccharide cross-linked with ether groups.

[0075]

In this regard, the use of ethanol and polyvinylpolypyrrolidone with menthol is particularly effective in reducing the loss of menthol.

[0076]

Menthol can be added in an amount sufficient to produce the desired aroma. As a standard, for the desired menthol flavoring, the e-cigarette fill obtained in step S103 is characterized by a menthol content, preferably from 0.1 wt.% to 10 wt.%, more preferably from 0.2 wt.% to 5 wt. .%.

[0077]

When making an electronic cigarette filler, the concentration of the water-insoluble crosslinked polymer to be added is in the range of preferably 10-2000 parts by weight, more preferably 50-600 parts by weight based on 100 parts by weight of menthol. In other words, the content of the water-insoluble cross-linked polymer in the electronic cigarette filler is preferably 0.1 to 20 times the content of menthol, more preferably 0.5 to 6 times the content of menthol.

[0078]

In order to obtain the effect of reducing the loss of menthol, the water-insoluble cross-linked polymer is present in the electronic cigarette filler at a concentration of preferably not less than 2% by mass, more preferably not less than 4% by mass. With this concentration of the water-insoluble cross-linked polymer, the electronic cigarette filler can be stored for a long time with only little loss of menthol, and the user can obtain a refreshing menthol flavor even after long-term storage. In addition, the content of the water-insoluble cross-linked polymer in the e-cigarette filler is preferably not more than 20 mass%, and more preferably in the range not exceeding 10 mass%. When its content is within 10 wt.%, it is possible to provide an aroma released from polyphenols of non-plant origin or the like.

[0079]

The concentration of the lower alcohol used is preferably 50 parts by weight based on 100 parts by weight of menthol. In addition, when at least 100 mass parts of a lower alcohol is used, it can be sufficiently miscible with the water-insoluble cross-linked polymer while dissolving the menthol. When the concentration is not more than 2000 mass parts, the lower alcohol residue can be reduced in the subsequent process, and an efficient manufacturing process can be achieved.

[0080]

In one example, the following materials are weighed:

menthol 100 mass parts ethanol 200 mass parts polyvinylpolypyrrolidone 200 mass parts

After menthol is dissolved in ethyl alcohol to obtain a solution of menthol in ethyl alcohol, polyvinylpolypyrrolidone is added to a solution of menthol in ethyl alcohol and mixed by shaking to obtain a mixture of menthol/ethyl alcohol/polyvinylpolypyrrolidone.

[0081]

Next, the step of preparing materials such as an aerosol-forming agent (step S101c) will be described. In step S101c, an aerosol-forming agent, a fragrance, a preservative, a binder or a thickener, and the like are prepared.

[0082]

In addition, food preservatives can be added if necessary. As preservatives, for example, sorbic acid, potassium sorbate, benzoic acid, sodium benzoate and the like can be used.

[0083]

As a binder or thickener, the following substances can be used: gums such as guar gum, xanthan gum, gum arabic and locust bean gum; cellulosic binders such as hydroxypropylcellulose, carboxymethylcellulose, hydroxyethylcellulose, methylcellulose and ethylcellulose; and polysaccharides such as starch, organic acids such as alginic acid, sodium alginate, sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, carrageenan, a base conjugated with organic acids such as agar and pectin. These substances can be used in combination.

[0084]

In one example, glycerin, propylene glycol, sodium carboxymethylcellulose and methylcellulose were prepared. At the same time, glucomannan and an aqueous solution of xylitol were also prepared, which was obtained by mixing 100 mass parts of xylitol with 400 mass parts of water and shaking the mixture.

[0085]

The following is a description of step S102. In step S102, the materials prepared in step S101 were weighed and mixed to obtain, for example, a non-tobacco herbal composition pulp.

[0086]

In the mixing step (step S102), a conventional mixer can be used. For example, a mixer is preferably used which mixes the materials in a mixing tank with a mixing paddle while applying a shear force.

[0087]

The crushed and dried non-tobacco plant product, the dissolved menthol product, the aerosol-forming agent, the binder or thickener, and water, if necessary, are mixed to form a non-tobacco herbal composition.

[0088]

In one example, the following materials were placed in a mixer and mixed for 15 minutes to make a non-tobacco herbal composition:

dry crushed tea leaves 100 mass parts mixture of menthol/ethyl alcohol/polyvinylpolypyrrolidone 25 mass parts glycerol 30 mass parts propylene glycol 30 mass parts sodium carboxymethyl cellulose 4 mass parts methylcellulose 15 mass parts xylitol aqueous solution 8 mass parts glucomannan 1 mass part

[0089]

Next, step S103 is described. In step S103, the non-tobacco herbal composition prepared in step S102 is processed to produce an electronic cigarette filler.

[0090]

In step S103, first, the non-tobacco herbal composition obtained in step S102 is made into a sheet. The sheet may have any flat shape.

[0091]

In one example, a three-roll machine (described further in Example 7) was used to convert a non-tobacco herbal composition into a sheet. The three-roll machine can form a sheet having a desired thickness by means of a doctor blade while kneading and dispersing materials using shear force due to different roll speeds and compressing materials drawn into a narrow gap between the rolls. In addition to the three-roll machine, a press roll and a press machine can also be suitably used to convert the non-tobacco herbal composition into a sheet.

[0092]

In the step of converting the non-tobacco herbal composition into a sheet, non-tobacco plants, aerosol-forming agents, flavor additives, preservatives, binders or thickeners, water, or the like may be added as needed.

[0093]

In addition, it is desirable to use water that has been disinfected or purified to remove microorganisms to make e-cigarette filler. It is also preferable to use pure water obtained through a reverse osmosis membrane or ion exchange method.

[0094]

In one example, a non-tobacco herbal composition was fed into a three-roll machine, 20 parts by weight of pure water was added, depending on the condition of the sheet, and the doctor blade was pressed against the rolls to form a sheet-like material. This step was repeated 8 times to obtain the final leaf-shaped composition based on non-tobacco plant materials.

[0095]

In the step of converting the non-tobacco herbal composition into a sheet, the thickness of the resulting sheet is preferably in the range of 0.1 mm to 1.0 mm, and more preferably in the range of 0.1 mm to 0.5 mm. In one example, a non-tobacco herbal composition was formed into a sheet having a thickness of about 0.3 mm.

[0096]

For example, in one way, the sheet may be tucked into a wrapper (151) or the like, as shown in FIG. 3, 4 and 10-12. In another way, shown in FIG. 2 and 7, a sheet having predetermined slots is processed into a desired shape to obtain a sheet-like element having slots, a sheet prepared as a filler (111) is processed into a desired shape, then slots are made in the sheet to obtain a sheet-like element, having slots, and a leaf-shaped element is filled as a filler (111) in a wrapping sheet (150) or something similar. According to an additional possible method, for example, the prepared sheet is processed to the desired shape and finished to the shape required for stuffing, then slots are made in it, and the sheet is stuffed into a wrapping sheet (150) or something similar in the form of a sheet-like filler having slots ( 111). Moreover, as an example of a possible method, after the prepared sheet is processed into a desired shape and filled as a filler in a wrap sheet (150) or the like, slits are made to obtain a sheet-like filler having slits. In this regard, the sheet has slots, but, as before, remains one whole due to its uncut section.

[0097]

In the next step, slits are made in the non-tobacco herbal composition sheet. The slits are made in the thickness direction of the sheet to a depth that does not penetrate the sheet, for example to a depth that is up to about half the thickness of the sheet. The slits can be made using, for example, a cutting tool such as a circular cutter with rotating blades.

[0098]

The slits can be made simultaneously with the step of converting the non-tobacco herbal composition into a sheet.

[0099]

Fig. 6A is a schematic perspective view showing a portion of a non-tobacco herbal composition sheet with slits made in the thickness direction. In the example in FIG. 6A, the thickness direction of the sheet is parallel to the Z-axis direction, and the sheet has a plurality of slits (F) made from the surface on the positive side of the Z-axis to approximately the center in the thickness direction. Each slot (F) extends in the Y-axis direction.

[0100]

Fig. 6B is a schematic plan view showing a non-tobacco herbal composition sheet with slits made in the thickness direction. In the example in FIG. 6B, a plurality of slits (F) having a length of about 12 mm are made in the Y-axis direction from the surface on the positive side of the Z-axis so that their ends are adjacent to each other along the X-axis direction.

[0101]

An electronic cigarette filler of an embodiment can be obtained by cutting a sheet of non-tobacco botanical composition along, for example, the dotted line and dashed line shown in FIG. 6b. For example, a cutting tool such as a circular knife with rotating blades is used for cutting.

[0102]

Fig. 6C is a schematic plan view showing an electronic cigarette filler according to an embodiment. The electronic cigarette filler shown in FIG. 6C is a sheet extending in the Z-axis direction, i. e. thickness, about 0.3 mm, and has a substantially rectangular flat shape with an extension in the X-axis direction of about 75 mm and an extension in the Y-axis direction of about 12 mm. The electronic cigarette filler of the embodiment has a plurality of slits (F) having a depth of about 0.15 mm in the thickness direction from the surface on the positive side of the Z-axis. Each of the slots (F) is made from one long side of the rectangular e-cigarette filler, i.e. from the side extending in the X-axis direction and extending about 6 mm in the direction in which the short sides extend, i.e. in the direction of the Y-axis. Slots (F) are arranged at regular intervals in the direction of the X-axis.

[0103]

The shape and dimensions of the electronic cigarette filler can be varied in various ways. For example, the filler has a rectangular flat shape in which the long sides are approximately 2-20 times longer than the short sides.

[0104]

Fig. 6D-6J are schematic plan views showing each view of the electronic cigarette filler according to the modification.

[0105]

The example in FIG. 6D differs from the example in FIG. 6C in that each slot (F) is made along the Y-axis direction from one long side to the other long side of the rectangular electronic cigarette filler.

[0106]

The example in FIG. 6E differs from the example in FIG. 6C in that, in half the area of the non-tobacco herbal composition sheet, on the negative side of the X-axis, each slot (F) is made from one long side, in particular the long side on the positive side of the Y-axis, in the negative direction Y-axis to have an extension of about 6 mm, while, at half the area on the positive side of the X-axis, each slot (F) is made from the other long side, in particular the long side on the negative side of the Y-axis, in the positive direction Y-axis to have a length of about 6 mm.

[0107]

Fig. 6F shows an example of an electronic cigarette filler in which slits (F) made from one long side, in particular the long side on the positive side of the Y-axis, in the negative direction of the Y-axis to have an extension of about 6 mm, and the slits ( F) made from the other long side, in particular the long side on the negative side of the Y-axis, in the positive direction of the Y-axis, to have an extension of about 6 mm, are arranged alternately in the X-axis direction.

[0108]

Fig. 6G shows an example of an electronic cigarette filler in which slits (F) extending in the Y-axis direction are arranged along a diagonal direction that intersects both the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction.

[0109]

Fig. 6H shows an example of an electronic cigarette filler in which each slot (F) is not made parallel to the Y-axis direction, but along a diagonal direction, unlike the examples in FIG. 6C-6G. Therefore, the component in the Y-axis direction of each slot (F) is longer than the component in the X-axis direction.

[0110]

In the examples in FIG. 6C-6H, slits (F) are made in the thickness direction from the surface on the positive side of the Z-axis; however, slots can be made in the thickness direction from the surface on the negative side of the Z-axis (rear surface).

[0111]

On each of the FIGS. 6I and 6J show an example in which slots (F) are made from surfaces on both the positive and negative sides of the Z-axis. In FIG. 6I and 6J, slits (F) made on the positive side of the Z-axis are shown in solid lines, and slits (F) made on the negative side of the Z-axis are shown in dashed lines.

[0112]

In the example in FIG. 6I, the slits (F) extending from one long side, in particular the long side on the positive side of the Y-axis, are made from the surface on the positive side of the Z-axis, while the slits (F) extending from the other long side, in particular , the long side on the negative side of the Y-axis, are made from the surface on the negative side of the Z-axis. The example in FIG. 6I differs from the example in FIG. 6F in that the slits (F) extending from the other long side are made from the surface on the negative side of the Z-axis (lower side with respect to the vertical axis).

[0113]

Fig. 6J depicts an example in which diagonal slots (F) made from the positive side of the Z-axis intersect diagonal slots (F) made from the negative side of the Z-axis in plan view. In the example in FIG. 6J, the component in the Y-axis direction of each slot (F) is also longer than the component in the X-axis direction.

[0114]

The manufacturing process of the electronic cigarette cartridge in step S104 will be described with reference to FIG. 7. In FIG. 7, the aerosol-forming substrate (110) obtained as described above, the transition element (130) and the mouthpiece (140), and the above-described support element (300) are arranged adjacent to each other in the following order: aerosol-forming substrate (110), support element ( 300), adapter (130), and mouthpiece (140), and wrapped with a wrap sheet (150), such as cigarette paper, to form a roll bar. In this electronic cigarette cartridge (100), a small amount of adhesive is applied to the side surface (160) of the support member. Adhesive can also be applied to the side surface of the aerosol-forming substrate (110) to fix it to the wrap sheet (150).

[0115]

In a manufacturing process for an electronic cigarette cartridge, for example, a sheet of non-tobacco herbal composition is cut in the Y-axis direction along the dotted line in FIG. 6b. One or more sheets cut from said sheet are wrapped with cigarette paper as a wrapper to form, for example, a roll that is elongated in the Y-axis direction with an outer diameter of about 6.9 mm. This roll is cut into pieces 12 mm long with a cutting tool to obtain an aerosol-forming substrate (110). The roll is cut along the dashed line in FIG. 6b.

[0116]

In the aerosol-forming substrate (110), for example, the electronic cigarette fill shown in the example of FIG. 6C, in particular, a sheet of non-tobacco herbal composition, in which the short sides of its rectangular shape are 12 mm, and cuts (F) are made in a direction parallel to the direction in which the short sides extend, is located inside a cylindrical wrapping element. Within the wrapper, for example, the electronic cigarette filler shown in FIG. 6C extends from one to the other longitudinal end of the aerosol forming substrate (110) having a length of 12 mm. The direction in which the short sides of the rectangular shape of the electronic cigarette filler extend is, for example, substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction of the aerosol-forming substrate (110).

[0117]

The aerosol-forming substrate (110) can also be formed using e-cigarette filler sheets having a rectangular shape with short sides less than 12 mm by being adjacent, in the longitudinal direction of the aerosol-forming substrate (110), or partially overlapping.

[0118]

The aerosol-forming substrate (110) has a mass of, for example, about 0.29 g, and the filling ratio of the volume of the electronic cigarette filler relative to the volume of the aerosol-forming substrate (110) is approximately 0.60. The fill factor of an electronic cigarette filler may be determined in consideration of the intensity of the flavor provided to the user, the ease of puffing for the user, and the like. The filling ratio of the volume of the filler for electronic cigarettes relative to the volume of the aerosol-forming substrate (110) is preferably in the range of 0.55-0.65.

[0119]

In addition to the aerosol-forming substrate (110), a support element (300), a transition element (130) and a mouthpiece (140) are also prepared. In such a case, the four members are arranged adjacently along the same direction in the order shown and wrapped with a wrap sheet (150), such as cigarette paper, to make an electronic cigarette cartridge. At this stage, the aerosol-forming substrate (110) is positioned such that one long side of the e-cigarette fill where slots (F) are made is located at the end side of the e-cigarette cartridge, i. e. from the side opposite the support element (300). A small amount of adhesive is applied to the side of the support element (300) in advance. The four elements may be arranged in a wrapping sheet (150) which has been pre-shaped into a cylindrical shape.

[0120]

The above method is used to manufacture the electronic cigarette cartridge of the embodiment.

[0121]

The electronic cigarette filler of the embodiment shown in FIG. 6-1-6-4 is shaped like a sheet, and slits (F) are made in the thickness direction of the sheet to a depth that does not pass through the sheet.

[0122]

The aerosol-forming substrate (110) of the electronic cigarette cartridge (100) of the embodiment is made using the filler of the electronic cigarette of the embodiment. In the electronic cigarette cartridge (100) of the embodiment, the longitudinal direction of the electronic cigarette cartridge (100), i. e. the longitudinal direction of the aerosol-forming substrate (110) is, for example, substantially parallel to the direction in which the slits (F) made in the electronic cigarette filler extend.

[0123]

In the electronic cigarette cartridge (100) of the embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate (110) is positioned such that the slotted (F) side of the electronic cigarette filler is located on the inlet side (10) of the electronic cigarette cartridge (100), i.e. .e. from the side from which the heating element (211) is inserted when the electronic cigarette cartridge (100) is used in the state installed in the electronic cigarette body (200).

[0124]

Meanwhile, when the electronic cigarette cartridge (100) of the embodiment is inserted into the electronic cigarette body (200), the heating element (211) can be smoothly inserted into the aerosol-forming substrate (110).

[0125]

In addition, the flow of the aerosol generated by the aerosol-forming substrate (110) to the mouthpiece (140) is facilitated.

[0126]

The electronic cigarette filler and the electronic cigarette cartridge of the embodiment are of high quality.

[0127]

It should be noted that when the electronic cigarette cartridge (100) includes the electronic cigarette filler according to the modification shown in FIG. 6H or 6J, i.e. an electronic cigarette filler having diagonal slits (F) in which the component in the Y-axis direction exceeds in length the component in the X-axis direction, for example, the aerosol-forming substrate (110) and the electronic cigarette cartridge (100) are manufactured so that the direction The Y-axis of the electronic cigarette filler was parallel to the longitudinal direction of the electronic cigarette cartridge (100).

[0128]

In the electronic cigarette cartridge (100) made using the electronic cigarette filler according to the modifications, the heating element (211) can also be smoothly inserted into the aerosol-forming substrate (110).

[0129]

In the electronic cigarette cartridge (100), the electronic cigarette filler may only need to be positioned such that the component of the slits (F) in the longitudinal direction of the cartridge is longer than the in-plane component perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

[0130]

Although the present invention has been described above with reference to specific embodiments, the invention should not be interpreted as being limited to such exemplary embodiments.

[0131]

For example, in this and similar embodiments, each slot (F) is made straight; however, the slot can be made curved. As in this embodiment, the component of the slot (F) in the Y-axis direction is made longer than the component in the X-axis direction.

[0132]

In addition, in the electronic cigarette cartridge (100) of the embodiment, a cap may be provided on the inlet side (10) of the aerosol-forming substrate (110). The cap reduces the flavor loss of the electronic cigarette filler and also prevents the electronic cigarette filler from falling out of the electronic cigarette cartridge (100) when, for example, the electronic cigarette cartridge (100) is being transported.

[0133]

The cap can be made from a filter, paper, foam, or the like. In addition, the insertion of the heating element (211) may be facilitated, for example, by providing one or more slots in the cap. Alternatively, at the position where the heating element (211) is inserted, a guide hole in the form of a circle or a polygon may be provided.

[0134]

In addition, in the electronic cigarette cartridge (100) of the embodiment, a separating member may be provided between the aerosol-forming substrate (110) and the support member (300). The separating element can be made, for example, from a filter or paper having a high gas permeability. It is desirable to use a material that breaks down when the heating element (211) is inserted. The presence of the separating element can block the electronic cigarette filler from moving in the electronic cigarette cartridge (100) while the electronic cigarette cartridge (100) is being transported or similarly carried.

[0135]

In this regard, the electronic cigarette cartridge (100) of the embodiment can be used in an insertion state in an electronic cigarette body without a heating element.

[0136]

The following is a detailed description of the use of an exemplary electronic cigarette cartridge of the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 2, the electronic cigarette cartridge (100) has, for example, a rod-like or cylindrical appearance. In the electronic cigarette cartridge (100), the aerosol-forming substrate (110) is located at one end, and the support element (300) and the transition element (130) are located in the above order towards the mouthpiece (140) located at the other end. They are wrapped in a wrap sheet (150) as shown in FIG. 2 and 7.

[0137]

The aerosol-forming substrate (110) includes an electronic cigarette filler. When heated, the aerosol-forming substrate (110) forms an aerosol that contains aromatic components from a plant that is the fill material.

[0138]

The filler as an aerosol-forming substrate (110) is applied in the form of a sheet which is rolled or folded. The rolled or folded state includes a state in which the sheets are rolled, folded, or pressed/compressed in an assembled form. It is also preferred that the sheets are crimped, bent, folded, or similarly processed.

[0139]

The support element (300) holds the aerosol-forming substrate (110). The support element (300) is located close to the aerosol-forming substrate (110). The support member (300) has an airflow cutout or through hole at its center or side so that the aerosol originating from the aerosol-forming substrate (110) can flow to the mouthpiece (140).

[0140]

The mouthpiece (140) is positioned close to the adapter (130) on the outlet side (20) of the electronic cigarette cartridge (100). The mouthpiece (140) may include, for example, a cellulose acetate filter as a fine particulate filter. The user inhales the aromatic components that have passed through the filter of the mouthpiece (140).

[0141]

Comparison of designs with and without transition element (130) shows a higher gas permeability without transition element (130), which facilitates the inhalation of the resulting aromatic components. However, the use of a transition element (130) may also be preferred in order to impart a cooling function to the generated aerosol. Instead of providing a transition element (130), it may also be preferable to extend the mouthpiece so that it is adjacent to or in contact with the support element (300). This is because the filter used in the mouthpiece can also have a cooling function, and the number of parts can be reduced. A hollow tubular member is used as the adapter (130), and a compressed resin sheet which is rolled up in the longitudinal direction of the electronic cigarette cartridge can be used.

[0142]

Fig. 8(1) shows a structure in which the aerosol-forming substrate (110) and support member (300) are in contact with each other. This shape is preferred because the aerosol-forming substrate (110) can be stably held. In addition, due to the simple design, this solution is also very advantageous in terms of manufacturing.

[0143]

Fig. 8(2) shows a construction in which a spacer (180) is provided between the aerosol-forming substrate (110) and the support member (300) so that they are in contact with each other through the spacer (180). As examples of the separating member (180), a filter or paper having high gas permeability and the like can be mentioned. It is desirable to use a material that breaks down when the heating element (211) is inserted. The provision of the separating member effectively prevents the aerosol-forming substrate (110) from moving in the electronic cigarette cartridge during delivery, such as transporting a product.

[0144]

Fig. 8(3) shows another preferred design in which the cap (170) is located on the side from which the heating element (211) is inserted into the aerosol-forming substrate (110). This design effectively prevents loss of flavor of the aerosol-forming substrate (110). In addition, this structure prevents the aerosol-forming substrate (110) from falling out of the electronic cigarette cartridge during delivery, such as transporting goods. Examples of cap (170) material include filter, paper, and foam. From the point of view of inserting the heating element, it is also preferable to provide one or more cutouts in the cap (170) or to provide a circular or polygonal guide hole at the position where the heating element is inserted.

[0145]

The specific embodiment preferred for an electronic cigarette cartridge is described below.

[0146]

The aerosol-forming substrate (110) has an approximately cylindrical shape in which the filler is wrapped with cigarette paper or the like. The diameter of the bottom or top of an almost exact cylinder ranges from 6.5 mm to 7.5 mm. The height of an almost exact cylinder is in the range of 10.0 mm to 15.0 mm, preferably in the range of 11.0 mm to 13.0 mm.

[0147]

Desirably, the filler is in the form of a rod or a narrow plate and is packed along the longitudinal direction of the electronic cigarette cartridge, and that the length of the filler is substantially equal to the height of an almost exact cylinder. That is, the filler length is in the range of 10.0 mm to 15.0 mm, preferably in the range of 11.0 mm to 13.0 mm.

[0148]

Preferably, the outer diameter of the support member (300) is substantially equal to the diameter of the bottom or top of the approximately cylindrical shape of the aerosol forming substrate (110) and the length is in the range of 9.0 mm to 11.0 mm.

[0149]

In addition, the mouthpiece (140) has a length greater than 20.0 mm, preferably in the range of 21.0 mm to 25.0 mm.

[0150]

The volume fill factor of the aerosol-forming substrate is preferably in the range of 0.55-0.65.

[0151]

The non-tobacco plants used for the aerosol-forming substrate according to the present invention are described below.

[0152]

The following describes non-tobacco plants used as raw materials. The non-tobacco plant that can be used in the present embodiment is not particularly limited as long as the plant is different from tobacco. Examples of plant parts used include: root (including scale roots (scale bulbs), tubers (potato tubers), bulbs, etc.), stem, tuber, bark (including stem bark, tree bark, etc.) , leaf, flower (including petals, pistils, stamens, etc.), tree trunks and branches; different parts can be used.

[0153]

Examples of scale bulbs include: common onion, amaryllis cluster, tulips, hyacinths, garlic, saffron, and lilies. Examples of bulbs include: crocus, gladiolus, freesia, iris, taro, and konjac. Examples of tubers include: amorphophallus konjac, cyclamen, anemone, begonia, Chinese artichoke, potato tubers, and apios (pachyrrhizus). You can also use the following: rhizomes, including cannu, lotus (lotus rhizome), and ginger; tuberous roots, including dahlia, sweet potato tubers, cassava and Jerusalem artichoke; rhizophora, including discorheic species (yams, for example, Japanese yam, wild yam and Chinese yam), and others, including turnip, burdock, wild carrot, garden radish and pueraria. Examples of stems include medicinal asparagus, young bamboo shoots, aralia, radish and yacon.

[0154]

The aforementioned tubers or subsequent plants contain hydrocarbons and are preferably used as at least part of the filler material (111). For example, starches such as maize (corn) starch, potato starch (potato), yam (sweet potato) starch, cassava (cassava) starch, and the like can be used as thickeners and stabilizers. These starches can be cross-linked to improve acid resistance, thermal resistance, shear resistance, and the like; or esterification/esterification to improve preservation stability and accelerate gel formation; or oxidation to improve transparency, film-forming properties, preservation stability, etc.

[0155]

Date seed gum, guar gum, locust bean gum can be extracted from plant seeds. Gum arabic and gum karaya can be extracted from tree sap. Pectin can be extracted from fruits. Konjac mannan, which consists mainly of cellulose and agarose, and soy polysaccharide can be extracted from other plants. In addition, they can be used in denatured form such as cationized guar gum.

[0156]

Three types of carrageenan: kappa carrageenan, iota carrageenan and lambda carrageenan; agar and alginic acid can be extracted from seaweed. They are also used in the form of salts such as carrageenan metal salt and sodium alginate.

[0157]

Specific examples of plants used as medicinal and aromatic herbs and spices include: gardenia fruit, kaffir lime leaves, Japanese ginger, mugwort, Japanese horseradish, Indian cumin seed, anise seed, alfalfa, echinacea, shallot, tarragon, immortelle , elderberry, allspice, orris root, oregano, orange peel, orange blossom, orange tree leaves, cayenne pepper, common chamomile, roman chamomile, cardamom, curry leaves, garlic, catnip, cumin, cumin seeds, fragrant olive, cumin, cumin seeds, clove, green cardamom, green pepper, cornmeal, saffron, cedar, cinnamon, jasmine, juniper, jolokia pepper, ginger, star anise, spearmint, sumac, sage, cheber, celery, celery seeds, turmeric, thyme, tamarind, wormwood tarragon, chervil (French parsley), chives, fennel, fennel seeds, tomato (dried tomato), tonka bean, dried cilantro leaves, nutmeg, hibiscus, habanero, jalapeno, hot pepper, basil, vanilla, cilantro, parsley, capsicum, hyssop, espelette pepper, pink pepper, fenugreek seeds, fennel, sarepta mustard , black cardamom, black pepper, black pepper, vetiver, poly, peppermint, common horseradish, white pepper, white mustard, poppy seeds, porcini mushrooms, marjoram, mustard seeds, Meleget pepper, calendula, wild mallow, dried nutmeg husk , yarrow, eucalyptus, lavender, licorice, linden, red clover, red pepper, lemongrass, lemon verbena, lemon mint, lemon peel, rose, rosebuds (purple), rose hips, rose petals, rosemary, French rose, laurel noble (oleander), Indian long pepper, sesame (raw sesame, pressed sesame), yellow pepper, Sichuan pepper (huajiao), santaca pepper, Japanese pepper, chili pepper, yuzu, etc. In addition, mixed spices (e.g. five spice powder, garam masala blend, ras el hanout blend, barigul, chicken tikka masala powder, tandoori masala powder, four spice blend, herbes de provence) and four herb blend can be used. used for aromatic blend or something similar.

[0158]

In addition, edible fruits (pulp) or seeds can be used, such as peaches, blueberries, lemons, oranges, apples, bananas, pineapples, mangoes, grapes, kumquats, melons, plums, almonds, cocoa beans, coffee beans, peanuts, seeds sunflowers, olives, walnuts and other nuts.

[0159]

You can also use tea. There are many different types of tea. Some are made from different plants and some come from the same plant, but it's the processing methods that make them different. In particular, examples of tea include: Japanese tea, black tea, Japanese angelica tea, sweet hydrangea tea, jiaogulan tea, aloe tea, ginkgo leaf tea, oolong tea, turmeric tea, willow oak extract tea, ginseng tea tea, plantain tea, ivy bud tea, persimmon leaf tea, chamomile tea, western cassia (Kawaraketsumei) tea, quince tea, chrysanthemum tea, gymnema sylvestre tea, guava leaf tea, dereza tea, mulberry leaf tea , black bean tea, geranium tea, brown rice tea, burdock tea, larkspur leaf tea, brown seaweed tea, sakura tea, saffron tea, shiitake mushroom tea, perilla tea, jasmine tea, ginger tea, horsetail tea, calamus tea, Japanese tripod tea, buckwheat tea, high aralia tea, dandelion tea, blackberry leaf tea, guttuinia cordifolia tea, tochu tea, swordtail sword tea, elderberry tea , privet tea Japanese tea, pearl barley tea, combined tea, loquat leaf tea, pu-erh tea, safflower tea, pine needle tea, mate tea, barley tea, nikko maple tea, Maksimovich maple tree bark tea, wormwood tea, eucalyptus tea, tea arhat fruit, rooibos tea, bitter gourd tea, etc. As for tea, you can use used tea leaves after drinking. Expensive tea can be effectively reused by reclaiming used tea leaves.

[0160]

Although kelp is mentioned above as a specific example of plants that can be used, other seaweeds can also be used. Examples of these include: green seaweed, aonori, akamoku, asakusa nori, alame, iwanori (rock red algae), egonori (hypniform campilephora), ogonori (gracilaria), gagome kombu (sculpera saccharin), kajime (eclonia kava) , ganiyashi (brown algae rhizoids), (sea grapes), (eclonia) kurome, kombu, susabinori (porphyra), dulse (palmaria palm), chishima-kuroniori (porphyra), tsuru-arame (eklonia stolonifera), tengusa, tororo kombu , nekoashi kombu, nori (red algae), habanori (petalonia), hijiki, hitoegusa (a type of monostroma), hirome, funori, bouaonori (intestine enteromorpha), makombu, mekabu, mozuku, and wakame (pinnate undaria).

[0161]

Although brown rice is mentioned above as a specific example of a plant that can be used, other types of rice can also be used. Their examples include: Indica varieties (Indian, continental, long grain rice), Naked rice (African rice), Seed rice (Asian rice), Java rice varieties (Java, tropical island species, coarse grain rice), Japanese varieties (Japanese, a species cultivated in temperate island climates, short-grain rice), and NERICA (a hybrid of African and Asian varieties of rice). You can also use rice flour or bran.

[0162]

While barley is mentioned above as a specific example of a plant that can be used, other cereal grains can also be used. Examples include: Italian millet, common oats (cultivars of oats, oat flakes), barley, wild oats, common millet, rough paspalum (pitted buckwheat), wheat, finger millet, Abyssinian tetlichka, pennisetum horniform, naked barley (var. barley), Job's tears (not seeds, but fruits), Japanese barnyard, fonio, makomo (broad-leaved zest), sweet barley (glutinous barley), sorghum (takakibi, kaolyan, etc.), corn and rye.

[0163]

Although black beans are mentioned above as a specific example of plants that can be used, other types of legumes/peas (plants from the legume family) can also be used. Examples include: adzuki bean, carob, common bean, Indian chickpea, mung bean, Chinese cowpea, square pea, underground geocarpic peanut, broad bean, soybean, rice bean, saber bean, tamarind, tepari , xiphoid ditch, hasze beans (velvet Yokohama) (burning mucuna), underground woandze, chickpeas, common dolichos, fire beans, two-flowered dolichos (macrotyloma one-flowered), aconitoleaf beans, lisma beans, peanuts, golden beans, lupins and lentils.

[0164]

Also, while buckwheat is mentioned above as a specific example of a plant that can be used, other grains can also be used. Their examples include: shiritsa (tailed shiritsu), quinoa and Tatar buckwheat.

[0165]

In addition, shiitake mushrooms are mentioned above as a specific example of plants that can be used, other mushrooms can also be used. Their examples include: matsutake mushrooms, shiitake mushrooms, hatsutake mushrooms, shimiji mushrooms, shoro (rhizopogon) mushrooms, white button mushroom and haratake mushrooms.

[0166]

In addition, sugar cane (including sugarcane bagasse), beet (sugar beet) and trunk, twigs, bark, leaves and roots of trees containing aromatic substances such as Japanese cypress, pine, cedar, drooping thuja, camellia, sandalwood and etc. Similarly, ferns and mosses can also be used as non-tobacco plants. Examples of plants further include by-products or pomace (residue from rice vodka, grape pomace (skins, seeds and stems of grapes left after making wine) obtained from the fermentation process of fermented beverages such as rice vodka and wine. In addition, you can also use any combination of the above products Obviously, plants other than those listed in this application can also be used.

[0167]

In addition, it is also desirable to use plants known in Chinese medicine. For example, the following plants are applicable: Aiso, Akanekon, Akamegasiva, Asenyaku, Ansokuko, Clematis Root, Inchinko (Yin Chen), Fennel (Yukio), Turmeric (Yukon), Yubai, Uyaku (Chilibucholeaf Lindera), Urajirogashi (Willow Oak), Yuwaurushi (bearberry), eijitsu (many-flowered rose hip), engosaku (yanhusuo corydalis), enmeiso, ogi, ogon (calamus), axes, obaku, oren, ohi, otogishiro (St. kagoso (common blackhead inflorescence), kashi, kasu, gajutsu, kakko, kakkon, chamomile, karokon, caronin, kankyo, licorice, kantoka, gayo, kikkyo, kigushi, kikoku, kijitsu, kikuka, kippy, kyokatsu, kyonin, kumquat (plant ), kinginka, kinsenso, kukoshi, kukokyo, kujin, walnut, kurenpi, kuromoji, kubaku, keigai, cinnamon tree (keihi), ketsumeishi, kengoshi, genjin, koi, safflower (coca), gokampi, kouko, koshi, kotju, kojin, kobushi, kobei, koboku, kohon, gokahi (ginseng), goshitsu, goshuyu, gojokon, goboshi, gomishi (Chinese lemongrass), saiko, s aishin, saffron, sankirai, santzashi, sanshishi, sanshui (Japanese dogwood), sanzukon, sansonin, sansho sanrio, sanyaku, jio, shion, jikoppi, shikon, shishoshi, shisoyo, shitsurishi, shitei, jifushi, peony (Shakuyaku-Chinese peony) , zangshoshi, sajing, shazenshi (plantain), satszenso, shukusha, hauttuniya (zuyaku), ginger, shrimp (trojan clove), coconut palm leaves, sesame seeds, wheat, ginger (shokyo), shurojitsu, shuroyo, shoma, wheat (shobaku ), shobukon, shini, zoteishi, shinpi, shinkiku, jindio (ginkgo), zuishui, shokumoku, seihi, sekishokon, sekiryujitsuhi, senkkoku, senkyu, jenko, senkotsu, senpukuka, sekkotsuboku, juice, sokakushi, sokisei, sojishi, sozutsu, souhakuyo , zokudan, sohakuhi, soboku, soyo, sokyo, dayo, taiso, daifukuhi, takusha, tanjing, chikutso, chikusetsuninjing, chikuyo, chimo, chiyu, carnation (choji), chotoko, chinpi, tennanso, tenma, tenmonto, winter wax gourd seeds (togashi), toki, togoma, tojing, toshinso, tonin, orange peel (tohi), toshin, tochinomi, tochu, dokkatsu, dokakon, nikuyu yo, nikukzuki, nindo, ginseng root (ninjing), baimo, malt (bakuga), hakushinin, hakuhenzu, bakumonto, hakushi, mint (hakka), bank, hange, hanbi, banrankon, hansiren, yuirine, byakushi, byakukatszatszuso, hyakubukon, byakuzutsu (Atractyloides rhizome), binrozi (fruit of the betel palm tree), fights, bokon, bofu, houo, hoeikon, botanpi, ephedra (mao), machijing, mankeishi, matsuyani, mokutsu, mokka, mokko, motsuyaki, mokutszoki, yakan, yakuchi, yakoto, rakantha, ranso, ryuganiku, ryutan, rekyo, reishi, forsythia (rengyo), ivy-shaped budra (repnssenso), renniku and rocon.

[0168]

In addition, extracts from the aforementioned non-tobacco plants can also be used. For example, extracts may be in the form of a liquid, paste, flake, solution.

[0169]

Below is a specific description of the present invention. The electronic cigarette cartridges prepared in the following examples are evaluated with the electronic cigarette body shown in FIG. 1. The body of an electronic cigarette is described below in general.

[0170]

The heating element (211) is 4.5 mm wide and 0.4 mm thick and has a tip length of 12 mm. The containing portion (210) has an inner diameter of 7 mm, which is substantially equal to the outer shape of the electronic cigarette cartridge. The heating element (211) generates heat by power supplied from a battery (not shown) housed in the body (200) of the electronic cigarette and is heated to about 370°C. Under the control of its built-in control system, one e-cigarette cartridge gives about 14 puffs. In particular, the electronic cigarette cartridge of the embodiment protrudes from the electronic cigarette body by about 20 mm from the exit side when the electronic cigarette cartridge is inserted into the body.

[0171]

(Example 1)

Cellulose fibers, binder, black tea leaves, aerosol-forming agent and flavoring agent were mixed to form a pulp, and the pulp was cast onto a metal plate and dried to prepare a sheet. The thickness was set equal to 0.2 mm. The resulting sheet was cut into pieces 12 mm long and 120 mm wide. Their weight was 0.29 g. As shown in FIG. 9, slits (F) were made at 4 mm W intervals with a paper slitting tool from a two-thirds extent position in the vertical direction (Y-direction) such that each slit had a vertical extent of 8 mm corresponding to two-thirds of the extent. This creation of slits was repeated in the horizontal direction (X-direction).

[0172]

The electronic cigarette cartridge was formed as shown in FIG. 2 and 7. A wrapper (151) formed into a cylinder with a diameter of 7 mm and a height of 12 mm was filled with filler to form an aerosol-forming substrate (110). As a support element (300), a hollow tube having a through hole in the center was used. The tube was made of cellulose acetate, the diameter of the base was 7 mm, and the diameter of the through hole forming the hollow portion was 3 mm. The support element (300) performs the function of holding the aerosol-forming substrate (110) against the insertion force when the heating element (211) is inserted, and also, due to the presence of a through hole in it, performs the function of directing the formed aerosol from the inlet side (10) to the outlet side ( 20) to enter the user's mouth.

[0173]

The assembled polymer sheet was rolled into a cylinder with a base diameter of 7 mm and a height of 18 mm for use as a transition element (130). The transition element (130) has the function of directing the generated aerosol from the inlet side (10) to the outlet side (20) to enter the user's mouth, and also has the function of providing a suitable temperature of the aerosol.

[0174]

The filter was rolled up into a cylinder with a base diameter of 7 mm and a height of 7 mm for use as a mouthpiece (140). The above components were wrapped with a wrap sheet (150) as shown in FIG. 2 and 7 to form an electronic cigarette cartridge.

[0175]

The filler (111) having the slots (F) described above was rolled up and loaded into the wrapper (151) as a filler to obtain an aerosol-forming substrate (110). In the aerosol-forming substrate (110) thus obtained, the gap between the sheets serves as an air passage, and the air passage is formed in the longitudinal direction of the electronic cigarette cartridge. In addition, since an adhesive was applied to the side of the filler, the filler adhered to the wrapper (151) when stuffed into it. The filler was loaded so that the slotted side (F) was on the inlet side (10). Thus, an electronic cigarette cartridge was obtained.

[0176]

In the case of this example, the end of the sheet, which is visible at one end, has a substantially rectangular shape with a long side of 4 mm and a short side of 0.2 mm, which is slightly curved. This example is characterized in that the sheet end shape area is substantially uniform as viewed from the central portion (B) to the peripheral portion (C) of the aerosol-forming substrate when viewed from one side as shown in FIG. ten.

[0177]

With such a feature, when the heating element (211) is inserted, it can be set with some resistance regardless of the direction of insertion. In addition, a uniform passage for the aerosol generated by heating is formed, resulting in a stable inhalation quality.

In addition, the filler or part of the filler did not fall out after use.

[0178]

(Example 2)

A filler (111) having the same slots as in Example 1 was prepared. The slotted sheet (F) was folded and tucked into the wrapper (151) to obtain a filler. In the filler thus formed, the gap between the sheets serves as an air passage, and the air passage is formed in the longitudinal direction of the electronic cigarette cartridge. In addition, since an adhesive was applied to the side of the filler, the filler adhered to the wrapper (151) when stuffed into it. The filler was loaded so that the slotted side (F) was on the inlet side (10). Thus, an electronic cigarette cartridge was obtained as in Example 1.

[0179]

In the case of this example, the end of the sheet, which is visible at one end, has a substantially rectangular shape with a long side of 4 mm and a short side of 0.2 mm, which is deformed. This example is characterized in that the area of the sheet end shape is almost uniform as viewed from the central portion (B) to the peripheral portion (C) of the aerosol-forming substrate when viewed from one side as shown in FIG. ten.

[0180]

With such a feature, when the heating element (211) is inserted, it can be set with some resistance regardless of the direction of insertion. In addition, a uniform passage for the aerosol generated by heating is formed, resulting in a stable inhalation quality.

In addition, the filler or part of the filler did not fall out after use.

[0181]

(Example 3)

Cellulose fibers, binder, black tea leaves, aerosol-forming agent and flavoring agent were mixed to form a pulp, and the pulp was cast onto a metal plate and dried to prepare a sheet. The thickness was set equal to 0.2 mm. After cutting, the sheet was rolled up and stuffed into the wrapper (151) as a filler. In the filler thus formed, the gap between the sheets serves as an air passage, and the air passage is formed in the longitudinal direction of the electronic cigarette cartridge. In addition, since an adhesive was applied to the side of the filler, the filler adhered to the wrapper (151) when stuffed into it.

[0182]

Thereafter, slits (D1, D2, D3) were made with a paper slitting tool, each slit in the diametral direction from one end. As shown in FIG. 11, the slits (D1, D2, D3) were made to be uniformly distributed in the diametral direction. The depth of each slot was about 8 mm. Thus, an electronic cigarette cartridge was obtained as in example 1.

[0183]

This example is characterized in that the area of the end form of the sheet increases when viewed from the central part (B) to the peripheral part (C) of the aerosol-forming substrate, when viewed from one side. Such an arrangement leads in particular to the fact that the heating element (211) is inserted with less resistance in the center.

In addition, the filler or part of the filler did not fall out after use.

[0184]

(Example 4)

Cellulose fibers, binder, black tea leaves, aerosol-forming agent and flavoring agent were mixed to form a pulp, and the pulp was cast onto a metal plate and dried to prepare a sheet. The thickness was set equal to 0.2 mm. The resulting sheet was cut into pieces 12 mm long and 120 mm wide. After cutting, the sheet was folded and stuffed into the wrapper (151) as a filler. In the filler thus formed, the gap between the sheets serves as an air passage, and the air passage is formed in the longitudinal direction of the electronic cigarette cartridge. In addition, since an adhesive was applied to the side of the filler, the filler adhered to the wrapper (151) when stuffed into it.

[0185]

After that, slits were made with a cutting tool, each slit from one end. As shown in FIG. 12, the three slits (G1, G2, G3) are made so that they are substantially perpendicular to the crease line of the folded filler (111).

The depth of each slot was about 8 mm. Thus, an electronic cigarette cartridge was obtained as in example 1.

The filler or part of the filler did not fall out after use.

[0186]

(Example 5)

Cellulose fibers, binder, black tea leaves, aerosol-forming agent and flavoring agent were mixed to form a pulp, and the pulp was cast onto a metal plate and dried to prepare a sheet. The thickness was set equal to 0.2 mm. The resulting sheet was cut into pieces 12 mm long and 120 mm wide and crimped into corrugations substantially parallel to the short direction (Y-direction). The corrugation shape period is 4 mm. The sheet compressed in the manner described above was rolled up and stuffed into the wrapping element (151) as a filler. In the filler thus formed, the gap between the sheets serves as an air passage, and the air passage is formed in the longitudinal direction of the electronic cigarette cartridge. In addition, since an adhesive was applied to the side of the filler, the filler adhered to the wrapper (151) when stuffed into it.

[0187]

Thereafter, slits (D1, D2, D3) were made with a paper slitting tool, each slit in the diametral direction from one end. As shown in FIG. 11, the slits (D1, D2, D3) were made to be uniformly distributed in the diametral direction. The depth of each slot was about 8 mm. Thus, an electronic cigarette cartridge was obtained as in example 1.

[0188]

This example is characterized in that the area of the end form of the sheet increases when viewed from the central part (B) to the peripheral part (C) of the aerosol-forming substrate, when viewed from one side. Such an arrangement leads in particular to the fact that the heating element (211) is inserted with less resistance in the center.

[0189]

The filler or part of the filler did not fall out after use. In addition, when the heating element (211) was inserted, it could be installed with some resistance, regardless of the direction of insertion, probably due to the compression, which leads to a stable quality of inhalation.

[0190]

(Example 6)

Cellulose fibers, binder, black tea leaves, aerosol-forming agent and flavoring agent were mixed to form a pulp, and the pulp was cast onto a metal plate and dried to prepare a sheet. The thickness was set equal to 0.2 mm. The resulting sheet was cut into pieces 12 mm long and 120 mm wide and crimped into corrugations substantially parallel to the short direction (Y-direction). The corrugation shape period is 4 mm. The sheet, compressed in the above manner, was folded and stuffed into the wrapping element (151) as a filler. In the filler thus formed, the gap between the sheets serves as an air passage, and the air passage is formed in the longitudinal direction of the electronic cigarette cartridge. In addition, since an adhesive was applied to the side of the filler, the filler adhered to the wrapper (151) when stuffed into it.

[0191]

After that, slits were made with a cutting tool, each slit from one end. As shown in FIG. 12, the three slots (G1, G2, G3) are made so that they are substantially perpendicular to the folded filler (111). The depth of each slot was about 8 mm. Thus, an electronic cigarette cartridge was obtained as in example 1.

The filler or part of the filler did not fall out after use.

In addition, when the heating element (211) was inserted, it could be installed with some resistance, regardless of the direction of insertion, probably due to the compression, which leads to a stable quality of inhalation.

[0192]

(Example 7)

In this example, a description will be given of a structure that is particularly suitable for continuous production of sheets each having slits at one end. Cellulose fibers, binder, black tea leaves, aerosol-forming agent and flavoring agent were mixed to form a pulp, and the pulp was cast onto a metal plate and dried to prepare a sheet. The sheet was formed into one continuous sheet having a width of 120 mm and rolled up. The continuous sheet was fed from the roll to a roll cutter to make partial slits in the sheet.

[0193]

Fig. 13 shows the slit method in this embodiment. The slits are made at W intervals in the X-direction in a sheet having a length of 120 mm in the X-direction. The uncut portion H1 and the cut portion H2 are periodically formed, each with a step H in the Y-direction. Neighbor slots moved to H3. Fig. 14 shows an example in which the sheet thus produced is cut into pieces of length H.

[0194]

In FIG. 14, cut portions and uncut portions are present at an interval of width W in the X-direction, and they are continuous over the entire area of the sheet due to the non-cut portions. In the Y-direction, there are two sides extending in the X-direction, and slits are made in each of the two sides. That is, when the slotted sheet prepared in this example is used for stuffing into the wrapper (151) to form an aerosol-forming substrate, it means that a filler having slots in both the upper and lower surfaces is loaded. This method of forming an aerosol-forming substrate is suitable for continuous production. This is due to the possibility of using both directions relative to the aerosol-forming substrate, which is suitable for automatic assembly of an electronic cigarette cartridge.

[0195]

Although a specific example has been described above, the method is not limited thereto. In continuous production, in order to obtain a sheet that is unbroken over the entire area due to uncut portions, the length H2 of the slit must be less than the width of the sheet in the Y direction. This can be achieved by arranging the slits so as to make slits on both one end side and the other.

That is, it is possible to provide a sheet-like member in which cut portions are present at predetermined intervals in a direction intersecting the longitudinal axis of the electronic cigarette cartridge, and which is continuous over the entire area due to the uncut portions, and which is cut at both one and the other. end sides of the aerosol-forming substrate when used in the aerosol-forming substrate.

[0196]

In the example shown, the interval W is 4 mm, the extent H is 12 mm, H1 is 4 mm, H2 is 8 mm, and H3 is 2 mm. The length H is set to 12 mm to make the aerosol-forming substrate and the filler the same length in the longitudinal direction of the electronic cigarette cartridge.

Thus, an electronic cigarette cartridge was obtained as in Example 1.

The filler or part of the filler did not fall out after use. In addition, when the heating element (211) was inserted, it could be installed with some resistance, regardless of the direction of insertion, probably due to the compression, which leads to a stable quality of inhalation.

[0197]

The following is a description of the manufacturing method preferred for the embodiment in Example 7. FIG. 15 schematically depicts an example of an apparatus (600) for making an aerosol-forming substrate. A sheet is fed from a sheet feeder (610) comprising a rotating reel to make predetermined slits therein. To form the slits, a slitting device (620) such as a circular cutter is used. Thereafter, the sheet with the required slits is sent to an assembly device (630), such as a cone, which collects the sheets, the sheets being rolled, folded, compressed or crimped and collected. When assembling the sheets thus prepared, the gap between the sheets serves as an air passage, and preferably, the air passage is formed in the longitudinal direction of the electronic cigarette cartridge. To stuff the wrapper (151) with a sheet, the wrapping paper is supplied from the wrapper feeder (670) which stores the roll of wrapping paper as a wrapping member, and the sheets collected by the gathering device (630) are wrapped. The wrapping process is performed by the wrapper (640). The wrapping device (640) wraps the collected sheets with wrapping paper, supplies an adhesive for thermal adhesion of wrapping paper ends overlapping, seals the ends under heat, and cools it. Thus, the assembly of sheets wrapped with wrapping paper is a continuous production, and at the same time, individual pieces of aerosol-forming substrate (110) are formed by the cutting device (650). Although not shown, a three-roll machine is used to convert the non-tobacco herbal composition into a sheet at the input side of the sheet feeder (610).

[0198]

The assembly of sheets wrapped by the wrapper, which is produced by the assembly device (630) or the wrapping device (640), is guided from the assembly device (630) to the cutting device (650) by means of the belt drive device (660). The belt for the belt drive device (660) is preferably a reinforced conveyor belt.

The slots are made on one and the other end sides of the aerosol-forming substrate (110) formed in the manner described above, and the sheet is continuous over the entire area belonging to the uncut areas.

[0199]

As described above, the present invention has the following effects:

The heating element (211) can be stably inserted into the electronic cigarette cartridge. This results in a stable inhalation quality and prevents damage to the heating element (211) and also prevents damage to the electronic cigarette cartridge.

[0200]

Moreover, the aerosol forming substrate filler can be prevented from falling out after using the electronic cigarette cartridge.

[0201]

Although certain embodiments of the invention have been described above, it should be understood that the invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiments, but rather is intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements that are within the scope of the appended claims. In addition, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art, various variations, modifications, and combinations can be devised without departing from the spirit of the invention.

Industrial Applicability

[0202]

For example, the electronic cigarette cartridge (100) according to the embodiment is suitable for use as an electronic cigarette cartridge that includes a heating element.

Description of symbols

[0203]

10 Input side (one end side)

20 Output side (other end side)

100 Electronic Cigarette Cartridge

110 Aerosol-forming substrate

111 Filler

130 Transition piece

140 Mouthpiece

150 Wrap sheet

151 Wrapper

170 cap

180 Separator

200 Electronic cigarette body

210 Enclosing plot

211 Heating element

300 Support element

600 Device for the manufacture of aerosol-forming substrate

610 Sheet feeder (610)

620 Slitting device

630 Assembly device

640 Wrapper

650 Cutter

660 Belt drive device

670 Wrap Feeder

160 Side

112 Approximate central axis

F Notch

W Slot spacing

D1 - D3 Notch

G1 - G3 Notch

B Central part of the aerosol-forming substrate

C Peripheral part of the aerosol-forming substrate.

Claims (13)

1. An electronic cigarette filler comprising a rectangular sheet-like element having a plurality of slots in its surface, provided that the longitudinal direction of the electronic cigarette is the first direction, and the in-plane direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction is the second direction indicated the plurality of slots includes one or more first slots along the first direction on one side of the sheet-like element that extends in the second direction. 2. The electronic cigarette filler of claim 1, wherein the slots are cut to a depth that does not penetrate the sheet material. 3. The electronic cigarette filler of claim 1, wherein said plurality of slits further includes one or more second slits that are provided along the first direction on the other side of the sheet-like member extending in the second direction. 4. The electronic cigarette filler according to claim 3, wherein the first slits and the second slits are arranged alternately in the second direction. 5. An electronic cigarette filler comprising a rectangular sheet-like member having a plurality of slots in its surface, provided that the longitudinal direction of the electronic cigarette is the first direction and the in-plane direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction is the second direction, each the slot has a component along the first direction and a component along the second direction, while the slots are located so that the extent of the component along the first direction exceeds the extent of the component along the second direction. 6. The electronic cigarette filler of claim 5, wherein the slots are cut to a depth that does not penetrate the sheet material. 7. Filler for electronic cigarettes according to any one of paragraphs. 1-6, which is fixed to the inside of the wrapper. 8. Filler for electronic cigarettes according to any one of paragraphs. 1-7 which is tucked so as to form an air passage in the first direction. 9. The electronic cigarette filler of claim 8, wherein the leaf-like member is folded or rolled to form an air passage. 10. Filler for electronic cigarettes according to any one of paragraphs. 1-9 having an end shape the area of which is substantially uniform when viewed from one end. 11. Filler for electronic cigarettes according to any one of paragraphs. 1-9, having an end shape, the area of which increases from the center to the periphery, when viewed from one end. 12. Filler for electronic cigarettes according to any one of paragraphs. 1-11, in which the slits are made at a predetermined interval in the second direction, the leaf-like element is made continuous over its entire area due to the uncut portion, and when the leaf-like element is used for an aerosol-forming substrate, the slits are provided at one end side and the other end side of the aerosol-forming substrate. 13. Cartridge for electronic cigarettes containing filler for electronic cigarettes according to any one of paragraphs. 1-12.

Images