RU2803909C2 - System and method for manufacturing a tubular element for use with an aerosol-generating product (embodiments) - Google Patents

Abstract

FIELD: aerosol generation.

SUBSTANCE: group of inventions is claimed, including: a system and method for manufacturing a tubular element for use with an aerosol generating product (embodiments). A tubular manufacturing system for use with an aerosol generating device for manufacturing tubular members comprises a gel. The tubular element manufacturing system comprises a first continuous supply device configured to continuously supply the first web of wrapping material along the supply path. It also comprises a nozzle configured to distribute the gel directly over the first web of wrapping material. The gel comprises water. It also comprises a second continuous supply device for supplying the second component to the first web of wrapping material. And it also comprises a rolling device configured to roll the first web of wrapping material around the gel and the second component to form a tubular element of continuous length.

EFFECT: making a tubular element for use in an aerosol generating product that does not tend to leak, and the aerosol generated from the tubular element is effectively delivered when heated by the aerosol generating device.

20 cl, 57 dwg

Description

The present invention relates to a system, apparatus and method for making a tubular element for use with an aerosol generating product. The tubular element contains a gel or contains a porous medium filled with a gel, or a thread filled with a gel, or any combination thereof.

Nicotine containing products are known for use with aerosol generating devices. Often the products contain a liquid, such as e-liquid, which is heated by a coiled electrically resistive filament to release an aerosol. Manufacturing, transporting and storing such aerosol-generating products containing liquid can be problematic and may result in leakage of liquid and liquid contents.

US 2015/0107610 A1 describes a rod that contains a first sheet that contains tobacco material and a second sheet that contains non-tobacco flavoring material, the first sheet and the second sheet being assembled together and surrounded by a wrapper. The specified rod can be used as a component part of an aerosol-generating product. The technical result is to eliminate the loss of tobacco material from the ends of the rod.

US 2018/0338520A describes an article for use with a device for heating smokable material. An article for use with a device for heating a smokable material to vaporize at least one component of said smokable material, said article comprising a body of porous, aerosol-retaining material; and a ring-shaped first body of smokable material disposed around a body of porous aerosol-retaining material, the article being adapted for use with a device comprising an electrical source and a heater that is configured to be used by the article.

The document RU 2194425 C2 describes a method and installation for forming a composite tape used for the manufacture of a fuel element for smoking products. The installation has a two-reel unwinder from which fiberglass strips are unwinded one by one. A gluing press is used to glue the tapes wound from two reels of the unwinder. In addition, there are speed measuring and control devices that measure the rewind speed and the amount of tape remaining on the reel. These devices provide, before gluing the tapes, which must be in a stationary position during this operation, the possibility of accumulating in the drive a certain supply of one of the tapes necessary for non-stop operation of the line. In the installation for forming a composite tape, the tape is cut longitudinally into two equal parts, which are separated in the vertical direction. Paper tape is fed into the gap between the two halves of the fiberglass tape, after which all the tapes are brought together at one point, forming a three-layer composite tape with an inner layer of paper tape located between the layers of fiberglass tape. The composite tape is fed into a KDF filter making machine where it is used together with a carbon rod to produce a fuel cell.

The document RU 2352228 C1 describes a device containing a forming section for forming a layer of material and supplying the formed layer of material; a wrapping section located downstream of the forming section for forming a core by wrapping a layer of material into a tape; a pair of guide blocks located at the final end portion of the forming section for guiding the layer of material; a tape shield located downstream of the guide blocks, when viewed in the direction of supply of the material layer, for separating the material layer and the tape from each other; a tongue located at the initial end portion of the wrapping section; injection holes provided in the guide blocks, tape shield and tongue for injecting liquid flavoring into the layer of material.

It would be desirable to provide a tubular member for use in an aerosol generating article and a device in which the tubular member is substantially leak-free.

It would also be desirable to provide a tubular member that includes a flow control system that effectively delivers the aerosol generated from the tubular member when heated by the aerosol generating device.

According to the present invention, there is provided a tubular member manufacturing system for producing tubular members containing a gel, the tubular member manufacturing system comprising:

first continuous feeding means configured to continuously supply the first web of wrapping material along the feeding path;

a nozzle configured to distribute the gel over the first web of wrapping material or to distribute the gel over the additional component;

rolling means configured to roll the first web of wrapping material around the gel or gel and the additional component to form a tubular element of continuous length.

In specific embodiments, the tubular member manufacturing system further comprises cutting means configured to cut a continuous length of tubular member into a plurality of individual tubular members. The cutting means may be a machine other than the main manufacturing machine, device or system for producing a continuous length tubular member. Cutting may be accomplished after a period of storage of the continuous length tubular element. The cutting action does not need to be carried out immediately after the production of a continuous length tubular element. The desired length of the tubular element may vary, so the cutting means may preferably vary to match the desired cutting length.

In specific embodiments, the tubular member manufacturing system includes a second feed means for supplying a second component. In specific embodiments, the tubular member manufacturing system includes second and third feed means for supplying the second and third components. Any number of feeders and additional components can be added to the assembly, and they can be folded in the desired manner.

In combination with other features, the tubular element manufacturing system comprising the second supply means is configured to continuously supply the second web of wrapping material. Preferably, the second supply means further comprises a formation device adapted to convert the second web of wrapping material into a second tubular element. Preferably, the second supply means comprises rolling means for rolling up the second web of wrapping material to form a second tubular element. In specific embodiments, the tubular element includes second tubular elements. Therefore, the tubular element manufacturing system in certain embodiments comprises means for forming second tubular elements. Preferably including a second web of wrapping material and means for forming a second tubular element of continuous length. The tubular element may include any number of second tubular elements. The second tubular elements may contain a gel, or contain a porous medium, or contain a porous medium filled with a gel, or contain a filament filled with a gel, or contain any combination thereof.

Preferably, the tubular element manufacturing system includes a nozzle for dispensing the gel. In various specific embodiments, the gel may be distributed:

on the first sheet of wrapping material;

on the second sheet of wrapping material;

on the porous medium on the first web of wrapping material;

on the porous medium on the second web of wrapping material;

along the thread on the first web of wrapping material;

along the thread on the second sheet of wrapping material;

or any combination of two or more of the above options.

Distribution into a porous medium, whether directly or indirectly, for example, when the porous medium is distributed into a gel, the porous medium is capable of absorbing or retaining the gel, and the porous medium is capable of becoming "gel-filled". The gel may first be distributed, wherein the porous medium disposed on the gel allows the porous medium to absorb or retain the gel and become filled with the gel.

When making tubular elements, the gel or porous media or filament may be distributed simultaneously with the distribution of other components or distributed sequentially. Preferably, the components are distributed, but the component may be assembled, or folded, or combined, or positioned in any known manner to be located at the desired location.

In combination with certain embodiments, the gel dispensing nozzle is a cylindrical nozzle. The advantage of a cylindrical nozzle is that the cylindrical shape facilitates the distribution of the gel in a cylindrical tube-like structure, which may, in certain embodiments, be a tubular element according to the present invention or a second tubular element. The cylindrical shape of the nozzle and therefore the dispensed gel may assist in the formation of the first or second wrapping material web when forming the tubular element or the second tubular element or when rolling the second web of wrapping material.

In combination with specific embodiments, the gel dispensing nozzle is a gel applicator nozzle with a stripe-shaped opening. The advantage of a gel applicator with a strip opening is that it assists in spreading the gel over a large area. For example, in spreading the gel across the first or second web of wrapping material or across a porous medium on the first or second web of wrapping material. This is especially advantageous when a gel-filled porous media or gel-filled thread is desired due to rapid loading of the gel. Other nozzle shapes can be used according to the specific geometry intended for applying the gel, such as, for example, oval, rectangular or polygonal. Alternatively or additionally, the number of nozzles can be selected according to the specific geometry intended for applying the gel.

According to the present invention, there is provided a method for manufacturing a tubular element containing a gel,

wherein the manufacturing method includes the steps:

feeding the first web of wrapping material to the feeding means;

distributing the gel over the first web of wrapping material;

folding the first wrapping material to wrap the gel and forming a tubular element of continuous length.

In specific embodiments, a method for manufacturing a tubular member further includes the step of:

cutting a tubular element of continuous length into segments to form individual tubular elements.

The cutting step does not need to be performed immediately after the formation of a tubular element of continuous length. Cutting the continuous length tubular element into desired lengths may be delayed. The desired length of the tubular element can vary according to the required size.

In specific embodiments, a method for manufacturing a tubular member further includes the step of:

distributing the porous medium over the first web of wrapping material, as a result of which the porous medium is filled with gel.

The gel may be distributed before the distribution of the porous medium or distributed after the distribution of the porous medium, the porous medium being capable of being filled with the gel. The porous medium is capable of containing or containing the gel and any materials that the gel carries, such as the active substance. The use of a porous medium to retain the gel in this manner may assist in the transport and storage of the gel, as well as the fabrication of the tubular member.

The gel may be distributed before the thread is distributed or distributed after the thread is distributed, the thread being capable of being filled with gel. The thread is capable of holding or containing the gel and any materials that the gel carries, such as the active substance. The use of a thread to hold the gel in this manner can assist in the transport and storage of the gel, as well as the manufacture of the tubular element.

In combination with specific embodiments, the manufacturing method further includes one or more of the steps of:

- supplying the second web of wrapping material to the second supply path; And

- rolling up the second web of wrapping material to form a tubular shape; And

- feeding the tubular shape of the rolled second web of wrapping material onto the first web of wrapping material before rolling the first wrapping material.

The present invention includes embodiments comprising second tubular elements. This allows the tubular elements of the present invention to have different embodiments, giving many different aerosol generation capabilities. The second tubular elements may be formed during the manufacturing process during which the tubular elements are manufactured, or may be pre-formed ready for use in assembling or manufacturing the tubular elements.

When making the second tubular elements, the second tubular elements may comprise, but are not limited to, a gel, a porous medium, a gel-filled porous medium, threads, gel-filled threads, susceptors, or any combination thereof.

In specific embodiments, the manufacturing method further includes the step of:

distributing the gel on the second web of wrapping material before rolling the second web of wrapping material to form a tubular shape and before feeding the rolled second web of wrapping material onto the first web of wrapping material.

In specific embodiments, the manufacturing method further includes the step of:

distributing the porous medium over the second web of wrapping material before rolling the second web of wrapping material to form a tubular shape and before feeding the rolled second web of wrapping material onto the first web of wrapping material.

In specific embodiments, the manufacturing method further includes the step of:

distributing the preformed second tubular element longitudinally across the first web of wrapping material before rolling up the first web of wrapping material.

According to the present invention, there is provided a method for manufacturing a tubular element,

wherein the manufacturing method includes the steps:

feeding the first web of wrapping material to the feeding means;

distributing the porous medium over the first web of wrapping material;

supplying a second web of wrapping material to a second supply path;

distributing the gel over the second web of wrapping material; And

wrapping the gel with a second sheet of wrapping material to form a tubular shape; And

feeding a second tubular member of the rolled gel and a second web of wrapping material onto the first web of wrapping material before rolling up the first wrapping material; And

rolling up a first wrapping material to wrap the gel and a second tubular member from the folded gel and the second web of wrapping material and forming a tubular member of continuous length.

In specific embodiments, a method for manufacturing a tubular member further includes the step of:

cutting a tubular element of continuous length into segments to form individual tubular elements.

In specific embodiments, the manufacturing method further includes the step of:

distributing the porous medium over the second web of wrapping material before rolling the second web of wrapping material to form a tubular shape.

According to the present invention, there is provided a method for manufacturing a tubular element,

wherein the manufacturing method includes the steps:

feeding the first web of wrapping material to the feeding means;

distributing the porous medium over the first web of wrapping material;

distributing the preformed second tubular element containing the gel longitudinally along the first web of wrapping material before rolling up the first web of wrapping material;

supplying a preformed second tubular element containing the gel onto the first web of wrapping material before rolling up the first wrapping material; And

rolling up the first wrapping material for wrapping the porous medium and the preformed second tubular element to form a continuous length tubular element.

A method for manufacturing a tubular element, further comprising the step of:

cutting a continuous length tubular element into lengths to form a plurality of individual tubular elements.

According to the present invention, a tubular element is provided, the tubular element comprising a wrapper that defines a first longitudinal passage; wherein the tubular element further contains a gel; wherein the gel contains the active substance.

In certain embodiments, the gel completely fills the tubular element within the wrapper.

Alternatively, in certain embodiments, the gel may partially fill the tubular element. For example, in certain embodiments, the gel is provided as a coating on the inner surface of the tubular element. The advantage of only partially filling the tubular element is that it leaves a path for fluid, for example, for an aerosol to flow into or out of the tubular element.

In combination with certain embodiments, the tubular element comprises a second tubular element.

In combination with specific embodiments, the tubular element comprises a second tubular element comprising a longitudinal side portion and proximal and distal ends; and wherein the second tubular element is located longitudinally within the first longitudinal passage.

In combination with certain embodiments, the tubular element comprises a plurality of second tubular elements.

In specific embodiments, the tubular element includes a plurality of second tubular elements arranged in parallel to extend along the longitudinal length of the tubular element. Optionally, the gel is provided in all, some, or none of the plurality of second tubular elements. In addition, depending on the particular embodiment in which there is a gel in the second tubular element, the gel completely fills each of the plurality of second tubular elements, or the gel partially fills the second tubular elements.

In specific embodiments, the tubular element comprises a porous medium filled with a gel.

In combination with other features, in certain embodiments, one or more second tubular elements comprise a porous gel-filled medium. In the case of a gel-filled porous medium, the gel-filled porous medium completely fills each of the plurality of second tubular elements, or the gel-filled porous medium partially fills the second tubular elements.

In specific embodiments, the gel-filled porous media is located between the second tubular member and the wrapper.

In specific embodiments, the longitudinal side portion of the second tubular member comprises paper or cardboard or cellulose acetate.

In some embodiments, the tubular element includes a wrapper. In some embodiments, the tubular member comprises a wrapper, wherein the wrapper comprises paper.

In specific embodiments, the second tubular element contains a gel. Preferably, the gel is at least partially enclosed by the longitudinal side portions of the second tubular element.

In specific embodiments, the gel may be located between the second tubular member and the wrapper that defines the first longitudinal passage.

According to the present invention, there is provided an aerosol generating article for generating an aerosol, wherein the aerosol generating article comprises:

a fluid guide for allowing the fluid to move; wherein the fluid guide has a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the fluid guide has an inner longitudinal portion and an outer longitudinal portion separated by a partition; wherein the inner longitudinal portion includes an inner longitudinal fluid passage between the distal end and the proximal end, and the outer portion includes a longitudinal fluid passage that communicates the outer fluid through at least one opening with the distal end of the fluid guide, whereby the outer the fluid may move along the longitudinal fluid passage of the outer fluid control portion to the distal end of the fluid guide and exit the aerosol generating article;

a tubular element that contains the gel; wherein the gel contains an active substance; wherein the tubular element has a proximal end and a distal end and is located at the distal end of the fluid guide.

Preferably, the aerosol generating article includes a cavity located between the distal end of the fluid guide and the proximal end of the tubular element. This allows the fluid and the material released from the tubular element to mix.

Preferably, the aerosol generating article comprises a wrapper. The wrapper is preferably made of paper, such as cigarette paper.

The distal end of the aerosol generating article may have an opening. Embodiments with a distal end opening provide the advantage that fluid from the outside of the aerosol generating article, such as ambient air, can enter and move through the tubular member. Embodiments with an opening at the distal end of the aerosol generating article also ensure that fluid, such as ambient air, enters at the distal end to move in a substantially linear direction toward the proximal end.

However, in other specific embodiments, in combination with other features, the aerosol generating article includes an end cap for the distal side of the tubular element. Preferably, the end plug is located at the extreme distal end of the aerosol generating article. Preferably, the end plug has a high tightening resistance, which thus allows fluid, for example ambient air, to pass through the opening into the outer longitudinal passages. Upon entry into the outer longitudinal passage, fluid, such as ambient air, moves into the tubular member to potentially mix with the gel, or gel-filled porous media, or gel-filled threads, before returning toward and passing through the inner longitudinal passage of the fluid guide. environment and exit from the aerosol generating product at the proximal end. An advantage of having an end cap at the distal end of the tubular member is that it deflects fluid, such as ambient air, from entering through the fluid guide openings and forces the fluid to change direction. The fluid is still able to mix with the tubular element.

In other specific embodiments, the aerosol generating article includes a combustible heat source at the distal end. Preferably, the combustible heat source is located at the extreme distal end of the aerosol generating device. An advantage of an aerosol generating article containing a combustible heat source is that no additional heat source, such as a device, is needed to heat the tubular element.

The present invention also provides a method for manufacturing an aerosol generating article, the manufacturing method comprising the steps of:

linearly positioning the tubular member and the fluid guide on the wrapping material web, thereby creating a gap between the proximal end of the tubular member and the distal end of the fluid guide; And

collapsing the tubular member and the fluid guide to form an aerosol generating article.

The manufacturing method may also include the addition of other elements. For example, the manufacturing method may include the additional steps of linearly arranging a distal end plug, or a proximal end die, or a combustible heat source at the distal end prior to coiling.

In other specific embodiments, an additional wrap or alternative wrap is used, such as a waterproof wrap.

In specific embodiments, the aerosol generating product includes a current collector (susceptor). The current collector (susceptor) may have the shape of a disk. A current collector (susceptor) may be located at the distal end of the tubular element. In some embodiments, the pantograph may include peripheral portions that extend along the longitudinal axes, for example, either in the near direction or in the far direction of both.

In specific embodiments, the aerosol generating article may further comprise a combustible heat source. The combustible heat source is preferably located at the extreme distal end of the aerosol generating article. Preferably, the combustible heat source contains carbon.

In combination with specific embodiments, the tubular element has an outer diameter that is approximately equal to the outer diameter of the aerosol generating article.

In specific embodiments, the tubular element has an outer diameter of from 5 millimeters to 12 millimeters, for example, from 5 millimeters to 10 millimeters or from 6 millimeters to 8 millimeters. Typically, the tubular element has an outer diameter of 7.2 millimeters, plus or minus 10 percent.

Typically, the tubular element has a length ranging from 5 millimeters to 15 millimeters. Preferably the tubular element has a length of from 6 millimeters to 12 millimeters, preferably the tubular element has a length of from 7 millimeters to 10 millimeters, preferably the tubular element has a length of 8 millimeters.

In combination with certain embodiments, the gel is a mixture of materials capable of releasing volatile compounds into an aerosol passing through the tubular element, preferably when the gel is heated. Providing a gel may be advantageous for storage and transport or during use, since the risk of leakage from a tubular member, aerosol generating article, or aerosol generating device may be reduced.

Advantageously, the gel is solid at room temperature. "Solid" in this context means that the gel has a stable size and shape and does not flow. Room temperature in this context means 25 degrees Celsius.

The gel may contain an aerosol-forming agent. Ideally, the aerosol generating agent is substantially resistant to thermal degradation at the operating temperature of the tubular element. Suitable aerosol-forming agents are well known in the art and include, but are not limited to: polyhydric alcohols such as triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol and glycerol; polyhydric alcohol esters such as glycerol mono-, di- or triacetate; and aliphatic esters of mono-, di- or polycarboxylic acids, such as dimethyl dodecanedioate and dimethyl tetradecanedioate. Polyhydric alcohols or mixtures thereof may be one or more of triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol and glycerol or polyethylene glycol.

Advantageously, the gel, for example, contains a thermoreversible gel. This means that the gel will become fluid when heated to the melting temperature and will set to become a gel again at the gelation temperature. The gelation temperature can occur at room temperature and atmospheric pressure or higher. Atmospheric pressure means pressure equal to 1 atmosphere. The melting temperature may exceed the gelation temperature. The melting point of the gel may exceed 50 degrees Celsius, or 60 degrees Celsius, or 70 degrees Celsius, and may exceed 80 degrees Celsius. Melting point in this context means the temperature at which the gel is no longer solid and begins to flow.

Alternatively, in certain embodiments, the gel is a non-meltable gel that does not melt during use of the tubular member. In these embodiments, the gel may release the active agent at least partially at a temperature that is equal to or greater than the operating temperature of the tubular member in use, but which is below the melting temperature of the gel.

Preferably the gel has a viscosity of from 50,000 to 10 pascals per second, preferably from 10,000 to 1000 pascals per second, to obtain the desired viscosity.

In combination with certain embodiments, the gel contains a gelling agent. In specific embodiments, the gel contains agar, or agarose, or sodium alginate, or gellan gum, or a mixture thereof.

In specific embodiments, the gel contains water, for example, the gel is a hydrogel. Alternatively, in certain embodiments, the gel is non-aqueous.

Preferably the gel contains an active substance. In combination with certain embodiments, the active substance contains nicotine (eg, in powder form or liquid form), or a tobacco product, or other target compound, for example, for release into an aerosol. In certain embodiments, nicotine is included in the gel along with an aerosol-forming agent. Keeping the nicotine in the gel at room temperature is desirable to prevent leakage.

In specific embodiments, the gel contains solid tobacco material that releases flavor compounds when heated. Depending on specific embodiments, the solid tobacco material is, for example, one or more of: powder, granules, pellets, pieces, thin tubes, strips, or sheets containing one or more of: plant material, e.g., herbal leaves, tobacco leaves , tobacco stem fragments, reconstituted tobacco, homogenized tobacco, extruded tobacco and expanded tobacco.

The gel preferably contains a gelling agent. The gelling agent can form a solid medium in which the aerosol-forming agent can be distributed.

The gel may contain any suitable gelling agent. For example, the gelling agent may contain one or more biopolymers, for example two or three biopolymers. Preferably, if the gel contains more than one biopolymer, the biopolymers are present in substantially equal weights. Biopolymers can be formed from polysaccharides. Biopolymers suitable as gelling agents include, for example, gellan gums (natural, low acyl gellan gum, high acyl gellan gums, with low acyl gellan gum being preferred), xanthan gum, alginates (alginic acid) , agar, guar gum, etc. Preferably, the gel contains agar.

The gel may contain any suitable amount of gelling agent. For example, the gel contains a gelling agent ranging from about 0.5 percent by weight to about 7 percent by weight of the gel. Preferably, the gel contains a gelling agent ranging from about 1 percent by weight to about 5 percent by weight, such as from about 1.5 percent by weight to about 2.5 percent by weight.

In some preferred embodiments, the gel contains agar in the range of about 0.5 percent by weight to about 7 percent by weight, or in the range of about 1 percent by weight to about 5 percent by weight, or in an amount of about 2 percent by weight.

In some preferred embodiments, the gel contains xanthan gum in the range of about 2 percent by weight to about 5 percent by weight, or in the range of about 2 percent by weight to about 4 percent by weight, or in an amount of about 3 percent by weight.

In some preferred embodiments, the gel contains xanthan gum, gellan gum and agar. The gel may contain xanthan gum, low acyl gellan gum and agar. The gel may contain xanthan gum, gellan gum and agar in substantially equal weights. The gel may contain xanthan gum, low acyl gellan gum and agar in substantially equal weights. The gel may contain xanthan gum, low acyl gellan gum, and agar in the range of from about 1 percent by weight to about 5 percent by weight (for the total weight of xanthan gum, low acyl gellan gum, and agar in the gel), or in the range from about 1 percent by weight to about 4 percent by weight, or in an amount of about 2 percent by weight. The gel may contain xanthan gum, low acyl gellan gum, and agar in a range of from about 1 percent by weight to about 5 percent by weight, or in an amount of about 2 percent by weight, the xanthan gum, gellan gum, and agar being substantially equal. weight.

The gel may contain a divalent cation. Preferably, the divalent cation contains calcium ions such as calcium lactate in solution. Divalent cations (such as calcium ions) may assist in the gel formation of compositions that include biopolymers (polysaccharides) such as gellan gums (natural, low acyl gellan gum, high acyl gellan gums), xanthan gum, alginates ( alginic acid), agar, guar gum, etc. The ionic effect may assist in gel formation. The divalent cation may be present in the gel composition in the range of about 0.1 to about 1 percent by weight, or in an amount of about 0.5 percent by weight. In some embodiments, the gel does not contain a divalent cation.

The gel may contain a carboxylic acid. The carboxylic acid may contain a ketone group. Preferably, the carboxylic acid contains a ketone group that has less than 10 carbon atoms. Preferably, this carboxylic acid has five carbon atoms (such as levulinic acid). Levulinic acid can be added to neutralize the pH of the gel. It may also assist in the formation of a gel that includes biopolymers (polysaccharides) such as gellan gums (low acyl gellan gum, high acyl gellan gum), xanthan gum, especially alginates (alginic acid), agar, guar gum etc. Levulinic acid can also improve the organoleptic profile of the gel formulation. In some embodiments, the gel does not contain a carboxylic acid.

There are embodiments in which additionally or alternatively, for example, the gel contains other flavoring agents, for example, menthol. Menthol can be added either to the water or to the aerosol forming agent prior to the formation of the gel.

In embodiments in which agar is used as a gelling agent, the gel, for example, contains from 0.5 to 5 percent by weight, preferably from 0.8 to 1 percent by weight, agar. Preferably, the gel further contains from 0.1 to 2 percent by weight nicotine. Preferably, the gel further contains from 30 percent to 90 percent by weight (or from 70 to 90 percent by weight) glycerol. In certain embodiments, the remainder of the gel contains water and flavoring agents.

Preferably, the gelling agent is an agar, which has the property of melting at temperatures above 85 degrees Celsius and reverting to a gel at approximately 40 degrees Celsius. This property makes it suitable for hot environments. The gel will not melt at 50 degrees Celsius, which is useful if the system is left, for example, in a hot car in the sun. The liquid phase transition at approximately 85 degrees Celsius means the gel only needs to be heated to a relatively low temperature to cause aerosol formation, resulting in low energy consumption. It may be helpful to use only agarose, which is one of the ingredients in agar, instead of agar.

When gellan gum is used as the gelling agent, typically the gel contains 0.5 to 5 percent by weight gellan gum. Preferably, the gel further contains from 0.1 to 2 percent by weight nicotine. Preferably the gel contains from 30 percent to 99.4 percent by weight glycerol. In certain embodiments, the remainder of the gel contains water and flavoring agents.

In one example, the gel contains 2 percent by weight nicotine, 70 percent by weight glycerol, 27 percent by weight water, and 1 percent by weight agar.

In another example, the gel contains 65 percent by weight glycerol, 20 percent by weight water, 14.3 percent by weight tobacco, and 0.7 percent by weight agar.

Additionally or alternatively, in certain embodiments, the tubular element comprises a porous media filled with a gel. Preferably, the porous gel-filled medium is located between the second tubular element and the wrapper, which defines the first longitudinal passage. Alternatively, in some specific embodiments, the second tubular element comprises a porous media filled with a gel. These embodiments do not necessarily preclude the gel or gel-filled porous media being additionally or alternatively located in a different location. In specific embodiments, the tubular element contains a gel and a porous media filled with the gel.

In combination with specific embodiments, the tubular element includes a longitudinal element located longitudinally within the first longitudinal passage. In specific embodiments, the longitudinal element located longitudinally within the first longitudinal passage is a porous medium filled with a gel. In other specific embodiments, the longitudinal member may be a longitudinal member of any material that is capable of, for example, occupying space within the tubular member, or facilitating or assisting the passage of heat or material, or even contributing to the strength or rigidity of the structure.

In some embodiments, the wrapper is strong or rigid to support the tubular member structure. It is assumed that the gel used in the present invention is a semi-solid, capable of maintaining its shape, especially during use. However, the present invention is not limited to solid gels. More fluid gels, gels with greater viscosity than solid gels, can also be used with embodiments of the present invention. The presence of a wrapper, which itself is capable of supporting the structure of the tubular element, is therefore useful, although not necessary. Likewise, the longitudinal side portion of the second tubular element may be rigid or strong. Having a wrapper or longitudinal side portion of the second tubular element, or both a wrapper and a longitudinal side portion of the second tubular element, that is strong or actually rigid may support the structure of the tubular element, but may also aid manufacturing. Preferably, the wrapper has a thickness of from about 50 to 150 micrometers.

In combination with other features, in certain embodiments, the wrapper is water resistant. In specific embodiments, the longitudinal side portion of the second tubular member is water resistant. This property of water resistance of either the wrapper or the longitudinal side portion of the second tubular element can be achieved by using a water-resistant material or by treating the material of the wrapper or the longitudinal side portion of the second tubular element. This can be achieved by treating one side or both sides of the wrapper or the longitudinal side of the second tubular element. The presence of water resistance will help in not losing structure, strength or rigidity. This may also assist in preventing gel or liquid leakage, especially when using gels with a flowable structure.

In combination with certain embodiments, the tubular element includes a current collector. The current collector may be any heat transfer material, for example it may be a metal filament, such as an aluminum filament, or a filament containing aluminum or a metal powder, such as, for example, aluminum powder. Typically, the pantograph is located longitudinally within the tubular element. The current collector may be located within the gel, or adjacent to, or adjacent to it; or in or adjacent to or adjacent to a porous gel-filled medium.

In specific embodiments, the wrapper includes a current collector. Alternatively or additionally, the current collector may be in the form of a powder, such as metal powder. The powder may be in the gel, or the wrapper, or the space between the gel and the wrapper, or a combination thereof.

In combination with certain embodiments, the tubular element further comprises a thread. It can be made of any material, natural or synthetic, but preferably cotton. The thread may be a delivery vehicle for carrying an active ingredient, such as a flavoring agent. An example of a suitable flavoring agent for use in the present invention is menthol. The thread may extend longitudinally within the tubular element. Preferably, the thread may be located within the gel, or adjacent to, or adjacent to it; or within, adjacent to, or adjacent to a porous gel-filled medium.

In combination with certain embodiments, the tubular element further comprises sheet material. In combination with certain embodiments, the gel-filled porous medium comprises sheet material. Providing the porous gel-filled material as a sheet material may have manufacturing advantages, for example, the sheet material can be easily assembled together to form a suitable structure. The gel may be filled into the sheet material before being gathered together or filled into the sheet material after being gathered together.

According to the present invention, a tubular element is provided, wherein the tubular element comprises a wrapper that defines a first longitudinal channel, wherein the tubular element further comprises a gel-filled porous medium, wherein the gel-filled porous medium further contains an active agent.

In particular embodiments, the gel-filled porous media completely fills the tubular member within the wrapper. Alternatively, in other specific embodiments, the porous medium only partially fills the tubular element.

In specific embodiments, the tubular element further comprises a second tubular element, the second tubular element having a longitudinal side portion and proximal and distal ends, the second tubular element being located longitudinally within the first longitudinal channel defined by the wrapper.

In specific embodiments, the longitudinal side portion of the second tubular member comprises paper or cardboard or cellulose acetate.

In specific embodiments, the second tubular element comprises a porous medium filled with a gel.

In some specific embodiments that have first and second tubular members as described, a gel-filled porous media is located between the second tubular member and a wrapper that defines the first longitudinal channel.

In some alternative embodiments in which first and second tubular elements are provided, the gel is located between the second tubular element and a wrapper that defines the first longitudinal channel.

According to the present invention, there is provided a method for manufacturing a tubular element,

wherein the tubular element contains:

at least one longitudinal passage and further contains a gel, wherein the gel contains an active substance,

wherein the method includes the steps:

placing tubular member material around a core that forms the tubular member;

squeezing the gel out of the channel inside the core so that the gel is inside the tubular element.

The method may further include the step of extruding the tubular member material around the core to form the tubular member.

The manufacturing method may further include the step of wrapping the tubular element with a wrapper.

According to the present invention, there is provided a method for manufacturing a tubular element,

wherein the tubular element contains:

a wrapper defining the first longitudinal channel and further comprising a porous medium filled with a gel, wherein the porous medium filled with a gel further contains an active substance, and wherein

the method includes the steps:

distribution of the porous medium filled with gel over the web of wrapping material;

wrapping the wrapping material around a porous gel-filled medium.

In specific embodiments, the method of manufacturing a tubular member further includes the step of cutting the rolled tubular member into lengths.

According to the present invention, there is provided a method for manufacturing a tubular element,

wherein the tubular element contains:

a wrapper defining the first longitudinal channel and further comprising a porous medium filled with a gel, the porous medium filled with a gel further containing an active substance; And

a second tubular element; And

wherein the method includes the steps:

distributing the gel-filled porous medium over the wrapping material web, and distributing the second tubular member over the gel-filled porous media over the wrapping material web; And

wrapping the wrapping material around the gel-filled porous medium and the second tubular member.

In specific embodiments, the method of manufacturing a tubular member further includes cutting the rolled tubular member into lengths.

It is contemplated that the tubular member of the present invention is used in an aerosol generating article. It is also contemplated that the aerosol generating article may be used in a device, such as an aerosol generating device. The aerosol generating device may be used to hold and heat the aerosol generating article to release the material. In particular, this may be the release of material from the tubular element according to the present invention.

According to the present invention, there is provided an aerosol generating article for generating an aerosol, wherein the aerosol generating article comprises:

a fluid guide for allowing the fluid to move; wherein the fluid guide has a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the fluid guide has an inner longitudinal portion and an outer longitudinal portion separated by a partition; wherein the inner longitudinal portion includes an inner longitudinal passage between the distal end and the proximal end, and the outer portion includes a longitudinal passage that communicates the outer fluid through at least one opening with the distal end of the fluid guide, whereby the outer fluid can move along the outer a longitudinal passage to the distal end of the fluid guide;

a tubular member that contains a gel, the gel containing an active agent, the tubular member having a proximal end and a distal end and located on a distal side of the fluid guide.

In particular embodiments, the partition separating the inner longitudinal passage and the outer longitudinal passage may be an impermeable partition, for example, fluid impermeable.

According to the present invention, there is provided an aerosol generating article, wherein the aerosol generating article comprises:

a fluid guide for allowing the fluid to move; wherein the fluid guide has a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the fluid guide has an inner longitudinal portion and an outer longitudinal portion separated by a partition; wherein the inner longitudinal portion comprises an inner longitudinal passage between the distal end and the proximal end; and the outer portion includes an outer longitudinal passage that communicates the outer fluid through the at least one opening with the distal end of the fluid guide, whereby the outer fluid can move along the outer longitudinal passage to the distal end of the fluid guide;

a tubular element that contains a porous medium filled with a gel, further containing the active substance; wherein the tubular element has a proximal end and a distal end and is spaced from the fluid guide.

According to the present invention, there is provided an aerosol generating article, wherein the aerosol generating article comprises:

a fluid guide for allowing the fluid to move; wherein the fluid guide has a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the fluid guide has an inner longitudinal portion and an outer longitudinal portion separated by a partition; wherein the inner longitudinal portion comprises an inner longitudinal passage between the distal end and the proximal end; and the outer portion includes an outer longitudinal passage that communicates the outer fluid through the at least one opening with the distal end of the fluid guide, whereby the outer fluid can move along the outer longitudinal passage to the distal end of the fluid guide;

a tubular element that contains a thread filled with a gel, further containing the active substance; wherein the tubular element has a proximal end and a distal end and is spaced from the fluid guide.

Preferably, the distal end of the tubular element in some embodiments contains at least one hole. An opening at a distal end of the tubular member may allow fluid, such as air from outside the aerosol-generating article, to enter the tubular member and move through the tubular member to create an aerosol. Fluid moving through the tubular member may pick up the active agent or any other materials in the gel and carry them out of the gel in a downstream direction (proximal direction).

In specific embodiments, the aerosol generating article may comprise a cavity located between the distal end of the fluid guide and the proximal end of the tubular member. Thus, the cavity may be located at the upstream end of the internal longitudinal passage and the downstream end of the tubular element. The cavity allows fluid, such as ambient air, to move through the outer longitudinal passage toward the cavity and make contact with the gel in the tubular member. Fluid contacting the tubular member may flow into and through the tubular member before returning to the internal longitudinal passage and to the proximal end of the fluid guide and the proximal end of the aerosol generating article. When this fluid, such as ambient air, comes into contact with the gel, the fluid may pick up the active agent or any other material in the gel or tubular member and guide it along the internal longitudinal passage further downstream to the proximal end of the aerosol generating article. To be in contact with the gel, ambient air may pass through the tubular member, or pass through the gel, or pass over the surface of the gel, or combinations thereof.

In particular embodiments, the at least one opening is located in the outer passage of the fluid guide.

The presence of at least one externally communicating opening located in the outer passage of the fluid guide provides a distance between the tubular member and the at least one externally communicating opening. This can help prevent leakage of the gel and its contents and ensure desired aerosol retraction.

In specific embodiments, the at least one hole is located in the cavity between the fluid guide and the tubular element.

The presence of at least one opening located in the outer passage of the fluid guide allows the surrounding fluid to easily reach the tubular element and mix easily in the cavity between the tubular element and the fluid guide.

In specific embodiments, the at least one hole is located in the side wall of the tubular element.

The presence of at least one opening located in the side wall of the tubular element allows the surrounding fluid to move in substantially one direction when negative pressure is applied to the proximal end of the aerosol generating article. The presence of at least one hole located in the side wall of the tubular element allows the surrounding fluid to be easily mixed with the contents of the tubular element.

In specific embodiments, the aerosol generating article includes a wrapper. The wrapper may be made of any suitable material, for example the wrapper may comprise paper. Preferably, the wrapper will have corresponding openings relative to the openings of the fluid guide. The corresponding holes in the fluid guide and wrapper may result from the formation of holes after the article has been rolled up.

In certain embodiments, the aerosol generating article includes openings. The openings allow fluid, such as ambient air, to enter and exit the aerosol generating article. The openings allow a fluid, such as ambient air, to reach the tubular member and make contact with the gel, or the gel-filled porous media, or the gel-filled thread. The tubular element may have side openings. Preferably, the side openings of the tubular element will correspond to openings in the wrapper. Preferably, the openings of the aerosol generating article to allow fluid to enter the aerosol generating article will be located in the fluid guide. However, in some specific embodiments, openings for allowing fluid to enter the aerosol generating article are located in a cavity toward the proximal end of the tubular member.

In specific embodiments, the outer longitudinal passage of the aerosol generating article comprises a single opening or a plurality of openings. An opening may be any hole, slot, slot or passage for allowing a fluid, such as ambient air, to pass through and into the aerosol generating article. This allows fluid on the outside of the aerosol generating article to be drawn inward. In use, this may be an external fluid, such as air, which is first drawn into the aerosol generating article through openings into the outer longitudinal passages before being drawn into other parts of the aerosol generating article. In specific embodiments, the holes are evenly spaced around the circumference of the aerosol generating article, for example, there are 10 or 12 holes. Having evenly spaced holes helps ensure smooth fluid flow.

In combination with certain embodiments, the aerosol generating article includes an end plug located at a distal end of the tubular member, wherein the end plug has a high tightening resistance. The end plug may be fluid-tight or may be nearly fluid-tight. Preferably, the end plug is located at the extreme distal end of the aerosol generating article. Because the end plug has a high tightening resistance, it will advantageously deflect fluid to enter through the opening of the outer longitudinal passages when negative pressure is applied at the proximal end of the aerosol generating article. In some embodiments, the end plug is fluid-tight.

In some embodiments, the tubular member includes an end cap. This advantageously ensures ease of manufacture. The end cap of the tubular element will preferably be located at one end of the tubular element. This advantageously ensures ease of manufacture. In some embodiments, the tubular member includes an end cap, wherein the end cap is fluid impermeable. When the tubular member includes an end cap that is fluid impermeable, this prevents gel and other fluids from escaping from the tubular member through the end cap of the tubular member.

In specific embodiments, the inner longitudinal passage of the inner portion of the fluid guide includes a restrictor. In some embodiments, the restrictor is located at or adjacent to the proximal end of the fluid guide. In some embodiments, the restrictor is located at or adjacent to the downstream end of the fluid guide. However, the restrictor, if present, may be located in the middle portion of the inner longitudinal passage of the fluid guide or the outer longitudinal passage. The stop may also be located adjacent to or on the distal end of the internal longitudinal passage. The restrictor may be located at or adjacent to the upstream end of the internal longitudinal passage. More than one restrictor may be used in the inner longitudinal passage or in the outer longitudinal passage of the fluid guide.

Stoppers for use with some specific embodiments of the present invention comprise a sharp taper; as an opening in a surface such as a wall, or a gradual restriction. Alternatively, in other specific embodiments, the restraints comprise a gradual or gradual restriction, such as sloping walls, or a funnel-shaped taper towards the lumen, or a gradual stepped restriction across the entire width of the passage. There may be a gradual or sudden expansion on the downstream (near) side of the restrictor. Specific embodiments include a funnel shape on one or both sides of the stopper. Thus, in a fluid flow from the upstream side to the downstream side (from far to near) there may be a gradual restriction of flow as the sides of the passage narrow towards the lumen of the restrictor, and then a gradual widening of the passage away from the lumen of the restrictor. Typically, the restrictor clearance will be limited to 60, or 45, or 30 percent of the largest cross-sectional area of the passage. In the present invention, the restrictor may thus, in some embodiments, for example, comprise a constriction with a lumen whose cross-sectional area is only 60, or 45, or 30 percent of the cross-sectional area of the largest or widest portion of the internal longitudinal passage. Typically, specific embodiments of the present invention have a reduction in the cross-sectional diameter of the cylindrical passages, for example, from 4 millimeters to 2.5 millimeters or from 4 millimeters to 2.5 millimeters. By varying different width reduction ratios and width values, the arrangement of restrictors, the number of restrictors, and the reduction ratio and expansion ratio, a specific fluid flow characteristic can be achieved.

In combination with certain embodiments, the aerosol generating article includes a heating element, such as a current collector, whereby heat can be transferred to the gel in the tubular element. Like the current collector of the tubular element, it can be made of any suitable material, preferably a metal such as, for example, aluminum or containing aluminum.

According to the present invention, there is provided a method for manufacturing an aerosol generating article, wherein the aerosol generating article comprises:

a fluid guide for allowing fluid to be transferred; wherein the fluid guide has a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the fluid guide has an inner longitudinal portion and an outer longitudinal portion separated by a partition; wherein the inner longitudinal portion comprises an inner longitudinal passage between the distal end and the proximal end; and the outer portion includes an outer longitudinal passage that communicates fluid through at least one opening with the distal end of the fluid guide, whereby the fluid can move along the outer longitudinal passage of the outer fluid control portion to the distal end of the fluid guide;

a tubular member that contains a gel, the gel containing an active agent, the tubular member having a proximal end and a distal end; And

wherein the method includes the steps:

linearly placing a tubular element containing the gel and a fluid guide on the wrapping material web; And

coiling the tubular member and the fluid guide; and sealing the wrapper securely around the tubular member and the fluid guide.

According to the present invention, there is provided an aerosol generating device comprising a reservoir configured to receive a distal end of an aerosol generating article as described herein.

The reservoir of the device may be shaped and sized to allow a distal end or portion of a distal end of the aerosol generating article to slidably fit into the reservoir and to retain the aerosol generating article in the reservoir during normal use.

Typically, the reservoir contains a heating element. This will allow heating of the aerosol generating article, heating of the tubular element or heating of the gel, preferably containing the active substance, or heating of the porous medium filled with the gel, or any combination thereof, directly or indirectly to assist in generating or releasing the aerosol or releasing material into the aerosol. The aerosol may then pass to the proximal end of the aerosol generating article. In particular embodiments, heating is provided directly or indirectly through a heater element, or a current collector, or a combination of both.

The heating means may be any known heating means. Typically, the heating means may perform heating by radiation, or conduction, or convection, or a combination thereof.

In combination with certain embodiments, the tubular element further comprises a thread. In specific embodiments, the thread is made from natural materials or synthetic materials, or the thread is a combination of natural and synthetic materials. The thread may contain semi-synthetic material. The thread may be made of fibers, or contain fibers, or partially contain fibers. The thread can be made, for example, of cotton, cellulose acetate or paper. Composite thread can be used. The thread can facilitate the production of a tubular element containing the active substance. The thread may facilitate the introduction of the active substance into the tubular element containing the active substance. The thread can help stabilize the structure of the tubular element containing the active substance.

In combination with certain embodiments, the tubular element comprises a porous medium filled with a gel. A porous medium may be used within the tubular member to create space within the tubular member. The porous medium is capable of containing or retaining the gel. This has the advantage that it facilitates the transfer and storage of the gel and the production of a tubular member containing the gel. The gel in the porous gel-filled medium may also contain the active substance; it may also contain or carry active substance or other materials.

The porous medium may be any suitable porous material capable of housing or retaining a gel. Ideally, a porous medium would allow the gel to move within it. In specific embodiments, the gel-filled porous media comprises natural materials, synthetic or semi-synthetic materials, or a combination thereof. In specific embodiments, the gel-filled porous media comprises sheet material, foam, or fibers, such as open fibers, or a combination thereof. In specific embodiments, the gel-filled porous media comprises woven, nonwoven, or extruded material, or combinations thereof. Preferably, the porous gel-filled medium contains, for example, cotton, paper, rayon, polylactic acid (PLA), or cellulose acetate, or combinations thereof. Preferably, the porous gel-filled medium comprises a sheet material, such as cotton or cellulose acetate. The advantages of a gel-filled porous medium are that the gel is retained within the porous medium and this can facilitate the manufacture, storage or transport of the gel. This may assist in maintaining the desired gel shape, especially during manufacture, transport or use. The porous media used in the present invention may be corrugated or split. In specific embodiments, the porous media comprises a corrugated porous media. In alternative embodiments, the porous media comprises a split porous media. The corrugating or splitting process can be carried out before or after gel filling.

Cleavage provides a high surface area to volume ratio for the medium, which is thus able to easily absorb the gel.

In specific embodiments, the sheet material is a composite material. Preferably, the sheet material is porous. The sheet material may facilitate the production of a tubular member containing the gel. The sheet material can facilitate the introduction of the active substance into the tubular element containing the gel. The sheet material may help stabilize the structure of the tubular member containing the gel. The sheet material may assist in transporting or storing the gel. The use of sheet material allows or enables the addition of structure to a porous medium, for example by corrugating the sheet material. Corrugating sheet material has the advantage of improving the design to provide passages through the structure. The passages through the corrugated sheet material assist in loading the gel, holding the gel, and allowing fluid to pass through the corrugated sheet material. Therefore, there are advantages to using corrugated sheet material as a porous media.

The porous medium may be a thread. The thread may comprise, for example, cotton, paper or acetate. The thread can also be filled with gel like any other porous medium. The advantage of using thread as a porous medium is that it can facilitate easy fabrication. The thread may be prefilled with gel before use in fabricating the tubular member, or the thread may be filled with gel during assembly of the tubular member.

The thread can be filled with gel by any known means. The thread may simply be coated with gel, or the thread may be impregnated with gel. During manufacture, the filaments can be impregnated with gel and stored ready for use for inclusion in a tubular element assembly. In other processes, the filament undergoes a filling process to produce a gel-filled tubular member. Like the gel-filled porous media or the gel itself, preferably the gel contains the active substance. The active substance is as described herein.

As used herein, the term "active substance" is a substance that is capable of exhibiting activity, for example, it causes a chemical reaction or is capable of changing the aerosol generated. The active substance may be more than one substance.

As used herein, the term “aerosol generating article” is used to describe an article capable of generating or releasing an aerosol.

As used herein, the term "aerosol generating device" is a device to be used with an aerosol generating article to allow the generation or release of an aerosol.

As used herein, the term "aerosol forming agent" refers to any suitable known compound or mixture of compounds that, when used, helps to improve the original aerosol contained, for example, in a tubular element, which can become a denser aerosol, a more stable aerosol, or both a dense aerosol and a more stable aerosol.

As used herein, the term “aerosol-generating substance” is used to describe a substance capable of generating or releasing an aerosol.

As used herein, the term "hole" is used to describe any opening, crevice, slot or gap.

As used herein, the term "cavity" is used to describe any pocket or space that is at least partially enclosed by a structure. For example, in the present invention, the cavity is the partially enclosed space (in some embodiments) between the fluid guide and the tubular member.

As used herein, the term "chamber" is used to describe an at least partially enclosed space or cavity.

For purposes of the present invention, the inner longitudinal cross-sectional area that "tapers" from the first location to the second location is used to indicate that the diameter of the inner longitudinal cross-sectional area decreases from the first location to the second location. This is often called a "limiter". Thus, as used herein, the term “restrictor” is used to describe a narrowing of a fluid passage or a change in cross-sectional area in a fluid passage.

As used herein, the term "corrugated" means a material having a plurality of folds or corrugations. It also includes the process of making the material corrugated.

The expression "cross-sectional area" is used to describe the cross-sectional area measured in a plane transverse to the longitudinal direction.

For the purposes of the present invention, as used herein, the term "diameter" or "width" is the maximum transverse dimension of a tubular element, aerosol generating article, or aerosol generating device, part or compartment thereof, of any of the tubular element, aerosol generating article, or aerosol generating device. As an example, "diameter" is the diameter of an object having a circular cross-section, or the length of the diagonal width of an object having a rectangular cross-section.

As used herein, the term "essential oil" is used to describe an oil having the characteristic odor and aroma of the plant from which it is derived.

As used herein, the term "external fluid" is used to describe a fluid originating from the outside of the aerosol-generating element, article, or device, such as ambient air.

The term "flavor" as used herein is used to describe a composition that affects the organoleptic quality of an aerosol.

The term "fluid guide" as used herein is used to describe a device or component that can change the flow of a fluid. Preferably, it guides or directs the fluid flow path of the generated or released aerosol. The fluid guide may cause mixing of the fluid. It may help to accelerate the fluid as it moves through the fluid guide as the passage's cross-sectional area narrows, or it may help to slow down the fluid as it moves along the passage as the passage's cross-sectional area widens.

As used herein, the term "assembled" is used to describe a sheet that is folded, bent, or otherwise compressed or tapered substantially transverse to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generating article or tubular member.

As used herein, the term "gel" is used to describe a solid, jelly-like, semi-rigid material or mixture of materials with a three-dimensional network capable of holding other materials and capable of releasing materials into an aerosol.

The term "herbal material" is used to refer to material from a herbaceous plant. A “herbaceous plant” is an aromatic plant, the leaves or other parts of the plant being used for medicinal, culinary or aromatic purposes and capable of releasing a flavoring agent into an aerosol produced by the aerosol generating article.

The term "hydrophobic" as used herein refers to a surface that exhibits water-repellent properties. The hydrophobic property can be expressed in terms of the water contact angle. The "water contact angle" is the angle, traditionally measured by a liquid, where the fluid interface makes contact with a solid surface. In quantitative terms, it means the wettability of a solid surface by a liquid according to Young's equation.

As used herein, the term "impermeable" is used to describe an element, such as a partition, through which fluid does not substantially or easily pass.

As used herein, the term "induction heating" is used to describe the heating of an object by electromagnetic induction, where eddy currents (also known as Foucault currents) are generated within the object to be heated and resistance results in resistive heating of the object.

As used herein, the term "longitudinal passage" is used to describe a passage or lumen that allows fluid, etc. to flow along it. Typically, air or generated aerosols carrying materials, such as particulates, flow along the longitudinal passage. Typically, the longitudinal passage will be longer in length than in width, but not necessarily. The term "longitudinal passage" also includes several of more than one longitudinal passage.

The term "longitudinal" is used to describe the direction between the proximal and distal ends of a tubular member, aerosol generating article, or aerosol generating device.

As used herein, “longitudinal side portions” of, for example, a second tubular element are used to describe a longitudinal side portion or wall of the second tubular element. In some embodiments, it is a single unit, such as cellulose acetate, forming a tubular member or porous gel-filled medium. In alternative embodiments, the longitudinal side portion is a wrapper.

As used herein, the term "core" is used to describe a core onto which another material is forged or formed.

As used herein, the term "mint species" is used to refer to plants of the genus Mentha.

The term "mouthpiece" is used herein to describe the element, component, or portion of an aerosol generating article through which aerosol exits the aerosol generating article.

As used herein, the term "outer" with reference to a fluid guide is used to describe a portion that is closer to the longitudinal circumference of the fluid guide than the middle of a cross-sectional portion of the fluid guide. Likewise, the term "inner" is used to describe (with reference to the fluid guide) the portion of the fluid guide that is closer to the center of the cross-sectional portion than the circumference of the fluid guide.

As used herein, the term "passage" is used to describe a passageway that may allow access between elements.

As used herein, the term "plasticizer" is used to describe a substance, typically a solvent, added to provide or enhance ductility or flexibility and to reduce friability.

The term "porous medium" as used herein is used to describe any medium capable of containing, retaining or supporting a gel. Typically, the porous medium will have passages within its structure that can be filled to hold or hold fluid or semi-solids, for example to hold a gel. Preferably, the gel will also be capable of passing or being transferred along and through channels within the porous medium. As used herein, the term “gel-filled porous media” is used to describe a porous media that contains a gel. The gel-filled porous medium is capable of containing, retaining or supporting a quantity of gel.

As used herein, the term "plug" is used to describe a component, segment, or element intended for use in an aerosol generating article. As used herein, the term "end plug" is used to describe the outermost component or plug of an aerosol generating article at the distal end of the aerosol generating article. Preferably, this end plug will have a high pull resistance (RTD).

The term "protonogenic" refers to a group that is capable of acting as a hydrogen or proton donor in a chemical reaction.

The term "reservoir" of an aerosol generating device means the following: This term is used to describe a chamber of an aerosol generating device capable of housing a portion of the aerosol generating article. This is usually the far end of the product, but does not have to be.

As used herein, the term resistance to draw (RTD) is used to describe the resistance of a fluid, such as a gas, to be drawn through a material. In the context of this document, the tightening resistance is expressed in units of pressure “millimeters of water”. Art." or "millimeters of water" and is measured in accordance with ISO 6565:2002.

As used herein, the term "high resistance to draw" (RTD) is used to describe the resistance of a fluid, such as a gas, to be drawn through a material. In the context of this document, high tightening resistance means more than 200 mm water. Art." or "millimeters of water" and is measured in accordance with ISO 6565:2002.

As used herein, the term "sheet material" is used to describe a generally planar plate-like element in which its width and length are substantially greater than its thickness.

As used herein, the term "seal" means to connect or "connect", for example, by connecting the edges of the wrapper to each other or to a fluid guide. This can be done by using an adhesive or glue. However, the term "seal" also includes connection by an interference fit. The seal does not require the creation of a fluid-tight seal or barrier.

As used herein, the term "split" is used to describe something that is finely chopped.

As used herein, the term "robust" is used to describe that an element is rigid enough or strong enough to withstand change in shape, or strong enough to generally resist shape deformation during normal use. This includes the fact that it can be elastic, so that when deformed it can largely return to its original shape. Likewise, the term "rigid" as used herein describes that an element is resistant to bending or change in shape and is generally able to maintain its shape, especially under normal use.

As used herein, the term "pantograph" is used to describe a heating element, any material capable of absorbing electromagnetic energy and converting it into heat. For example, in the present invention, a susceptor or heating element may assist in transferring thermal energy to the gel, heating the gel to assist in releasing materials from the gel.

As used herein, the term “textured sheet” means a sheet that has been corrugated, embossed, blind embossed, perforated, or otherwise deformed.

Throughout this document, the term “tubular element” is used to describe a component suitable for use in an aerosol generating article. Ideally, the tubular element would be longer in its longitudinal length than in its width, but not necessarily, as it could be one part of a multi-component element, which would ideally be longer in its longitudinal length than in its width. Typically, the tubular element is cylindrical, but not necessarily. For example, the tubular element may have an oval, polygonal, eg triangular or rectangular, or arbitrary cross-section. The tubular element does not have to be hollow. The tubular element contains shapes that are not hollow, but may contain shapes that are hollow.

The terms "upstream" and "downstream" are used to describe relative positions with respect to the direction of the main flow of the fluid as it is drawn into the tubular element, aerosol generating article, or aerosol generating device. In some embodiments in which the fluid enters from the distal end of the aerosol generating article and moves toward the proximal end of the aerosol generating article, the distal end of the aerosol generating article may also be described as the upstream end of the aerosol generating article and the proximal end of the aerosol generating article. the end of the aerosol generating article may also be described as the downstream end of the aerosol generating article. In these embodiments, the elements of the aerosol generating article located between the proximal end and the distal end may be described as being located upstream of the proximal end or alternatively located downstream of the distal end. However, in other embodiments of the present invention in which the fluid enters the aerosol generating article from the side and first moves toward the distal end, turns, and then moves toward the proximal end of the aerosol generating article, the distal end of the aerosol generating article may be either located upstream or further downstream depending on the respective reference point.

As used herein, the term "water resistant" is used to describe a material, such as a wrapper or longitudinal side portion of a second tubular member, that does not allow water to pass through easily or that is not easily damaged by water. Waterproof material can resist water penetration.

In specific embodiments, the tubular element contains the active substance. In specific embodiments, the gel contains an active ingredient. In specific embodiments, the active ingredient comprises nicotine. In specific embodiments, the gel or tubular member containing the active agent contains from 0.2 percent by weight to 5 percent by weight of the active agent, for example, from 1 percent by weight to 2 percent by weight of the active agent.

Typically, in certain embodiments, the tubular member will contain at least 150 mg of gel.

In certain embodiments, the active substance contains a plasticizer.

In specific embodiments, the active agent-containing gel contains an aerosolizing agent such as glycerol. In embodiments in which the aerosol-forming agent is present, typically, for example, the gel containing the active agent contains from 60 percent to 95 percent by weight glycerol, for example, from 80 percent to 90 percent by weight glycerol.

In specific embodiments, the active agent-containing gel contains a gelling agent, such as, for example, alginate, gellan, guar, or combinations thereof. In embodiments containing a gelling agent, the gel typically contains from 0.5 percent to 10 percent by weight of a gelling agent, such as from 1 percent to 3 percent by weight of a gelling agent.

In specific embodiments, the gel contains water. In such embodiments, the gel typically contains from 5 percent to 25 percent by weight water, such as from 10 percent to 15 percent by weight water.

In certain embodiments, the active agent comprises a flavoring agent, or a pharmaceutical agent, or a combination thereof. In specific examples, the active ingredient is nicotine in any form. The active substance is capable of being active, for example capable of causing a chemical reaction or at least changing the aerosol generated.

The active substance may be a flavoring agent. In certain embodiments, the active ingredient contains a flavoring agent. The gel may contain a fragrance. Alternatively or additionally, flavoring agents may be present in one or more other locations of the product. A flavoring agent may impart a flavor to improve the taste of the fluid or aerosol generated by the article. A flavoring is any natural or artificial compound that affects the organoleptic quality of an aerosol. Plants that can be used to produce flavorings include, but are not limited to, those in the families Lamiaceae (eg, mint species), Apiaceae (eg, anise, fennel), Lauraceae (eg, bay laurel, cinnamon, rosewood) families. , Rutaceae (e.g. citrus), Myrtaceae (e.g. anise, myrtle) and Fabaceae (e.g. licorice). Non-limiting examples of flavor sources include mint varieties such as peppermint and spearmint, coffee, tea, cinnamon, clove, ginger, cocoa, vanilla, eucalyptus, geranium, agave and juniper; and their combinations.

Many fragrances are essential oils or a mixture of one or more essential oils. Suitable essential oils include, but are not limited to, eugenol, peppermint oil and spearmint oil. In many embodiments, the flavor contains menthol, eugenol, or a combination of menthol and eugenol. In many embodiments, the flavor further comprises anethole, linalool, or a combination thereof. In certain embodiments, the flavoring agents comprise herbal material. The herbal material includes herbal leaf or other herbal material from herbaceous plants, including, but not limited to, mint varieties such as peppermint and spearmint, lemon balm, basil, cinnamon, lemon basil, chives, coriander, lavender, sage, tea, thyme and caraway seeds. Suitable mint leaf species may be taken from a variety of plants including, but not limited to, Mentha piperita, Mentha arvensis, Mentha niliaca, Mentha citrata, Mentha spicata, Mentha spicata crispa, Mentha cordifolia, Mentha longifolia, Mentha pulegium, Mentha suaveolens and Mentha suaveolens variegata. In some embodiments, the flavoring agent may include tobacco material.

In one specific example, in combination with other features, the gel contains approximately 2 percent by weight nicotine, 70 percent by weight glycerol, 27 percent by weight water and 1 percent by weight agar. In another example, the gel contains 65 percent by weight glycerol, 20 percent by weight water, 14.3 percent by weight solid powdered tobacco, and 0.7 percent by weight agar.

In the present invention, the fluid guide may have two distinct portions, for example, an outer portion with an outer longitudinal passage and an inner portion with an inner longitudinal passage. Therefore, the outer longitudinal passage extends lengthwise adjacent the circumference of the fluid guide, and the inner fluid passage extends lengthwise adjacent the core or cross-sectional center along an axis extending along the length.

Preferably, in particular embodiments, ambient air enters through the openings in the wrapper and the openings in the fluid guide into the outer longitudinal passage (of the fluid guide) towards the distal end of the aerosol generating article and into the region of the tubular element containing the gel containing the active substance . Preferably, the fluid will contact the gel containing the active agent to generate or release an aerosol from a mixed fluid comprising fluid from outside the aerosol generating article and material released from the gel containing the active agent or agents. The fluid then moves along the inner longitudinal passage of the fluid guide towards the proximal end of the aerosol generating article. It is assumed that the outer and inner longitudinal passages are separated by a partition. The partition may be fluid impermeable or resistant to fluids passing through it, and thus capable of deflecting fluid to the distal end. Preferably, the outer longitudinal passage of the fluid guide includes an opening which is in fluid communication with the outer portion of the fluid guide and preferably the outer portion of the article. It is also assumed that the outer longitudinal passage is blocked at its proximal end such that, in use, fluid received from the exterior of the aerosol generating article generally flows toward the distal end of the fluid guide. The outer longitudinal passage of the fluid guide has openings at or near its proximal end, but is then open only at its distal end. In contrast, the internal longitudinal passage of the fluid guide is open at both its proximal end and its distal end, although it may have various flow restriction elements between its proximal and distal ends. The partition separating the inner and outer longitudinal passages of the fluid guide forces the fluid that enters the outer longitudinal passage to move towards the distal end of the outer longitudinal passage and towards the tubular element, preferably containing a gel containing the active substance. This brings the fluid into contact with a tubular element, preferably containing a gel containing the active substance.

The outer longitudinal passage of the fluid guide may be a single passage or more than one passage. The outer longitudinal passage may be within the fluid guide or may be one or more passages on the outer surface of the fluid guide, the fluid guide defining a partial wall of the outer longitudinal passage and the wrapper defining another partial wall relative to the outer longitudinal passage. The outer or inner longitudinal passage of the fluid guide may comprise a porous material, such as foam, particularly reticulated foam, whereby the passages extend transversely through the porous material. In certain embodiments, the fluid guide comprises a porous material, such as foam. The porous material can allow the passage of fluid while still maintaining its shape. These materials are easy to form and therefore can assist in the manufacture of an aerosol generating article.

In some embodiments, the outer longitudinal passage may extend substantially around the interior of the wrapper. In some embodiments, the passage may not extend completely around the inside of the wrapper.

Various aspects or embodiments of an aerosol generating article for use with an aerosol generating device that are described herein may provide one or more advantages over currently available or previously described aerosol generating articles. For example, an aerosol generating article comprising a fluid guide and inner and outer fluid passages of the fluid guide enables efficient transfer of an aerosol generated from a tubular member containing a gel, preferably containing an active agent. In addition, a gel containing an active agent is less likely to leak from an aerosol generating article than a liquid element containing an active agent.

The aerosol generating article may include a mouthpiece end (proximal end); and the far end. Preferably, the distal end is received by an aerosol generating device having a heating element configured to heat the distal end of the aerosol generating article. The tubular element containing the gel, preferably containing the active substance, is preferably located near the distal end of the aerosol generating article. The aerosol generating device may therefore heat a tubular member containing a gel, preferably containing an active agent, in the aerosol generating article to generate an aerosol containing the active agent.

The aerosol-generating article, or parts of the aerosol-generating article, containing a tubular element, preferably containing a gel containing the active substance, may be a disposable aerosol-generating article or a reusable aerosol-generating article. In some specific embodiments, portions of the aerosol generating articles are reused and portions are discarded after one use. For example, aerosol-generating articles may comprise a mouthpiece that can be reused and a disposable portion that contains a tubular member containing a gel and an active ingredient, for example further containing nicotine. In embodiments containing both reusable parts and disposable parts, the reusable parts can be detached from the disposable parts.

In combination with certain embodiments, the aerosol generating article comprises a wrapper. The aerosol generating article has an open end, a proximal end; and a distal end, which may be open or closed in various specific embodiments. A tubular element, preferably containing a gel containing an active substance, which optionally contains nicotine, is preferably located near the distal end of the aerosol generating article. Application of negative pressure at the open proximal end causes material to be released from the tubular element, preferably containing a gel containing the active substance. The aerosol generating article defines at least one opening between a proximal end and a distal end. The at least one opening defines at least one fluid inlet such that when negative pressure is applied to the open proximal end of the aerosol generating article, fluid, such as air, enters the aerosol generating article through the opening. Preferably, a fluid, for example ambient air, is drawn into the aerosol generating article through the opening, flowing along the outer longitudinal passage of the fluid guide to a tubular member, preferably containing a gel containing the active substance, near the distal end of the aerosol generating article. The fluid then flows through the inner longitudinal passage of the fluid guide from the distal end to the proximal end and out of the aerosol generating article at the open proximal end.

By positioning the opening at a distance from the distal end of the aerosol generating article, the opening is separated from the tubular member containing the gel, reducing the likelihood of gel leakage through the opening. In addition, by providing a passage, such as an outer longitudinal passage, for the flow of air from the opening into the tubular member containing the gel, fluid from the opening can be directed toward the gel, and the fluid guide can act as an additional obstruction between the gel and the opening. This has the advantage of further reducing the likelihood of the tubular element leaking through the opening. Additionally, the internal longitudinal passage of the fluid guide provides a path for fluid, such as air, and material or vapor generated or released from the tubular member to be drawn out of the aerosol generating article through the open proximal end. The path provided by the internal longitudinal passage of the fluid guide may have an internal longitudinal flow cross-sectional area that varies along the length of the internal longitudinal passage to vary the flow of aerosol generated or released from the tubular element, from the distal end of the aerosol generating article to the open proximal one. end of the aerosol-generating product.

In combination with certain embodiments, the aerosol generating article comprises a fluid guide. The aerosol generating article and the fluid guide or parts thereof may be formed as a single part or separate parts. An advantage of the fluid guide and the aerosol generating article being formed integrally as one unitary part is the ease of manufacturing only one part, instead of multiple parts, and then subsequently assembling the multiple parts within the aerosol generating article. However, if the aerosol generating product has a multi-component design that requires several components to be assembled together, this has the advantage that the different components can be more easily changed without having to change the entire manufacturing process. Likewise, the fluid guide may be formed as a single piece or separate pieces for the same reasons - ease of manufacture if manufactured integrally in one piece, but may be more easily adapted if fluid guide components are assembled . The fluid guide is housed in the aerosol generating article and has a proximal end, a distal end, and an internal longitudinal passage between the distal end and the proximal end.

The internal longitudinal passage of the fluid guide has an internal cross-sectional area.

Providing gaps or passages that are angled relative to the longitudinal direction of the aerosol generating article has the effect that, during use, fluid is directed into the proximal end cavity at an angle to the flow representing the main flow of the fluid. This advantageously optimizes fluid mixing and creates resistance to draw (RTD). Mixing may also increase the turbulence of the flow of generated aerosol and air through the proximal end cavity. These effects on the flow dynamics, which is the main flow of the generated aerosol, can enhance the benefits described above. By changing the dynamics of the lumens or passage, for example by making the passage smaller or larger in cross-sectional area, or by changing the angles of the passage walls, or a combination thereof, the desired draw resistance can be achieved. Such passages, especially when there is a narrowing of the passage, are known as restrictors or flow restriction elements. According to the present invention, either or both of the outer and inner longitudinal passages may have a restrictor, but preferably only the inner longitudinal passage contains a restrictor. To facilitate the description below, when describing various embodiments and therefore as a result of the direction of fluid flow and the orientation of the passage, only the internal longitudinal passage is described. However, the restrictor may equally be used in the outer longitudinal passage of the present invention where the fluid flow is generally in a direction opposite to the inner longitudinal path of the fluid flow. The general flow path in the outer longitudinal passage is from the proximal end to the distal end, whereas in the inner longitudinal passage the general flow direction in use is from the distal end to the proximal end. The ventilated fluid passing through the openings enters the aerosol generating article and flows in a distal direction along the outer longitudinal passage. The fluid contacts the tubular element, preferably containing a gel containing the active substance, and preferably generates or releases an aerosol containing the active substance or other contents of the tubular element.

Restrictors have been provided in smoking and aerosol generating products to compensate for low RTD (resistance to draw). The restrictors can, for example, be built into a plug or tube of filter material. Additionally, filter segments containing the restrictor may be combined with other filter segments, which may optionally contain other additives such as sorbents or flavorings.

Preferably, with respect to the cross-sectional area of the stopper, each pass extends either along the radius of the cross-sectional area or along a line that is offset relative to the radius by an angle beta (β). "Radius" refers to any line extending from the center of the cross-sectional area to the edge of the cross-sectional area. Angle beta (β) is measured as the smallest angle between the intersection point of the radius and the central axis of the passage. If the passage is not straight, the angle can be measured between the longitudinal axis of the filter and the longitudinal axis of the passage exit.

When considering the cross-sectional area from the downstream direction (from the far end to the proximal end for the internal longitudinal passage), the angle beta (β) can be directed in a clockwise direction or a counterclockwise direction with respect to the radius.

If the passage is offset with respect to the radius, the angle beta (β) is preferably less than 60 degrees, more preferably less than 45 degrees, and most preferably less than 15 degrees in either the clockwise or counterclockwise direction. Mixing of any fluid generated from the article and supplied as a result of the venting fluid can be improved if the angle beta (β) is offset from the radius. In some cases, all of the passages may be directed in a clockwise direction or in a counterclockwise direction, or some of the passages are directed in a clockwise direction and some of them are directed in a counterclockwise direction.

The size of the openings or passages in the fluid guide preferably provides a total open area of from 1.0 to 4.0 square millimeters, more preferably from 1.5 to 3.5 square millimeters. Preferably, the openings or passages of the inner longitudinal passage of the fluid guide are substantially circular, although other cross-sectional shapes are also possible. An advantage of the internal longitudinal passage of the fluid guide having a circular cross-section is that a more uniform flow of fluid is possible through passages of a non-circular cross-section. Changing the shape of the passages makes it possible to achieve the desired flow.

A single lumen or passage may be provided in the fluid guide. Alternatively, two or more spaced apart lumens or passages may be provided in the fluid guide. For example, in some embodiments, a pair of substantially opposing passages is provided. Having more than one passage is advantageous to allow improved control of fluid flow through the passages. Having a single pass is advantageous for ease of manufacture.

With respect to the inner and outer longitudinal passages, if there are two or more openings or passages, the openings or passages may have the same open area or different open areas. Having equal open area for two or more passages, all of which have the same area, is advantageous to ensure uniform fluid flow through all passages. However, having two or more passages with different open areas is advantageous to create turbulence in the fluid as it passes through the two or more passages.

Two or more passages may be provided at the same angle or at different angles to the longitudinal axis. Having two or more passages at the same angle to the longitudinal axis is advantageous to ensure uniform fluid flow through all passages. In general, uniform fluid flow is easier to predict and plan. Having two or more passages at different angles to the longitudinal axis is advantageous to create turbulence in the fluid as it passes through the two or more passages. In general, turbulent air flow can improve particle agglomeration to form aerosol droplets.

Two or more passages may be provided at the same angle or at different angles to the cross-sectional radius of the fluid guide. Having two or more passages at the same angle to the cross-sectional radius of the fluid guide areas is advantageous to ensure uniform fluid flow through all passages. Having two or more passages at different angles to the cross-sectional radius of the fluid guide is advantageous to create turbulence in the fluid as it passes through the two or more passages.

With respect to the inner and outer longitudinal passages, if there are two or more passages, the passages may be located at substantially the same position along the length of the fluid guide or at different longitudinal positions relative to each other. Having two or more passages in the same position along the length of the fluid guide is advantageous to ensure uniform flow of fluid through all passages. Having two or more passages at different longitudinal positions relative to each other is advantageous for creating turbulence in the fluid as it passes through the two or more passages.

In embodiments in which the openings are provided upstream of the cavity, the outer longitudinal passage between the openings and the cavity allows fluid from outside the aerosol generating article to pass into the cavity and the tubular member beyond the cavity in a distal direction. The cavity may be partially enclosed by the wrapping of the aerosol generating article. In such embodiments, mixing of a fluid, such as ambient air, with the generated or released aerosol may occur or partially occur before the aerosol passes through the restrictor.

If the fluid guide contains two or more restrictors having different cross-sectional areas, preferably the first upstream restrictor has the smallest cross-sectional area. Preferably, the first stopper has a reduced outer diameter compared to the overall diameter of the inner longitudinal passage to form an annular passage between the distal side and the proximal side.

In certain embodiments, the restrictor is substantially spherical. However, alternative forms are also possible. The restriction element may, for example, be substantially cylindrical or be provided in the form of a membrane. For example, the restrictor may be provided in the form of a membrane extending in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the product.

In alternative designs, the restrictor may be an aggregation of smaller particles (eg, granules held together by a binder).

In combination with certain embodiments, the cross-sectional area of the inner longitudinal passage of the fluid guide is substantially constant from the distal end to the proximal end. This ensures smooth fluid flow. The inner diameter of the inner longitudinal passage of the fluid guide is typically in the range of 1 millimeter to 5 millimeters, typically about 2 millimeters. The internal longitudinal passage typically has an internal longitudinal cross-sectional area that is smaller than the cross-sectional area of the cavity at the distal end of the fluid guide. Thus, the fluid guide presents a narrowed inner longitudinal cross-sectional area for accelerating air entering the inner longitudinal passage at the distal end.

In combination with specific embodiments, the cross-sectional area of the inner longitudinal passage varies from the distal end to the proximal end. This forces the fluid to mix. For example, the cross-sectional area at the distal end of the inner longitudinal passage may be larger than the cross-sectional area at the proximal end of the inner longitudinal passage. If the cross-sectional area of the inner longitudinal passage is larger at the distal end than at the proximal end, the diameter of the inner longitudinal passage at the proximal end is preferably from 0.5 millimeters to 3 millimeters, for example about 1 millimeter, and the diameter of the inner longitudinal passage at the distal end is preferably from 1 millimeter to 5 millimeters, for example about 2 millimeters.

In combination with specific embodiments, the fluid guide is preferably from 3 millimeters to 50 millimeters in length, preferably about 25 millimeters in length.

In combination with specific embodiments, the inner longitudinal passage of the fluid guide may have one or more portions disposed between the distal end and the proximal end that are adapted to vary the flow of fluid through the inner longitudinal passage from the distal end to the proximal end.

The internal longitudinal passage of the fluid guide may include a first portion between the proximal end and the distal end that is configured to accelerate the fluid as it flows from the distal end to the proximal end of the fluid guide. The first portion of the inner longitudinal passage may be configured in any suitable manner to accelerate the fluid as it flows through the inner longitudinal passage from a distal end to a proximal end of the inner longitudinal passage. For example, the first portion of the inner longitudinal passage may include restraints defining a narrowed inner longitudinal cross-sectional area that causes the fluid to accelerate in a substantially axial direction from the distal end to the proximal end. Preferably, the first part of the inner longitudinal passage is the first part of the inner longitudinal passage in the direction from far to near.

In combination with certain embodiments, the inner longitudinal cross-sectional area of the first portion of the inner longitudinal passage may taper from a location closer to the distal end of the fluid guide to a location closer to the proximal end of the fluid guide to cause the fluid to accelerate along as it flows from the far end to the near end. The inner longitudinal cross-sectional area of the first part may taper from a distal end of the first part to a proximal end of the first part. Thus, the distal end of the first portion of the inner longitudinal passage (the location proximal to the distal end of the fluid guide) may have an inner diameter that is larger than the proximal end of the first portion (the location proximal to the proximal end of the fluid guide).

In combination with specific embodiments, the internal longitudinal cross-sectional area of the first portion of the internal longitudinal passage may be constant from the distal end of the first portion to the proximal end of the first portion. In such embodiments, the constant internal longitudinal cross-sectional area of the first portion of the internal longitudinal passage may be less than the internal longitudinal cross-sectional area at the distal end of the internal longitudinal passage.

If the inner longitudinal passage of the fluid guide is narrowed from the distal end to the proximal end, the narrowing of the inner longitudinal passage generally involves gradually reducing the cross-sectional area of the inner longitudinal passage from the distal end to the proximal end of the fluid guide. Preferably, the reduction in the diameter of the inner longitudinal passage is linear from the distal end to the proximal end of the first part, for example, has the shape of a truncated cone. A linear reduction in cross-sectional area, such as a truncated cone shape, is advantageous in creating a smooth flow of fluid through the fluid guide.

Alternatively, the narrowing is non-uniform. For example, in certain embodiments, the narrowing of the internal longitudinal passage is stepped, with the cross-sectional area of the internal longitudinal passage narrowing in discrete increments or steps from the distal end to the proximal end. The non-uniform reduction in the cross-sectional area of the inner longitudinal passage is advantageous in creating turbulence in the fluid as it passes along the fluid guide.

The internal longitudinal passage of the fluid guide may include a second portion between the proximal end and the distal end, which is configured to slow down the fluid as it flows from the distal end to the proximal end of the fluid guide. The second portion of the inner longitudinal passage may be configured in any suitable manner to slow the fluid as it flows through the inner longitudinal passage from the distal end to the proximal end of the inner longitudinal passage. For example, the first portion of the inner longitudinal passage may include guides defining an expanded inner longitudinal cross-sectional area that causes the fluid to decelerate in a substantially axial direction from the distal end to the proximal end. Preferably, the second part of the internal longitudinal passage is located after the first part in the direction from far to near.

In combination with certain embodiments, the inner longitudinal cross-sectional area of the first portion of the inner longitudinal passage may expand from a location closer to the distal end of the fluid guide to a location closer to the proximal end of the fluid guide to cause the fluid to decelerate along as it flows from the far end to the near end. The inner longitudinal cross-sectional area of the first portion may extend from a distal end of the second portion to a proximal end of the second fluid guide portion. Thus, the distal end of the second portion of the inner longitudinal passage (the location proximal to the distal end of the fluid guide) may have an inner diameter that is smaller than the proximal end of the second portion (the location proximal to the proximal end of the fluid guide).

In combination with specific embodiments, the cross-sectional area of the second portion of the internal longitudinal passage may be constant from the distal end of the second portion to the proximal end of the second portion. In such embodiments, the area representing the constant cross-sectional area of the second portion of the inner longitudinal passage may be larger than the area representing the cross-sectional area at the distal end of the second portion of the internal longitudinal passage.

If the cross-sectional area of the inner longitudinal passage of the fluid guide is expanded from the distal end to the proximal end, the expansion of the cross-sectional area of the inner longitudinal passage generally includes gradually expanding the cross-sectional area of the inner longitudinal passage from the distal end of the second part to the proximal end of the fluid guide environment. Preferably, the expansion of the diameter of the inner longitudinal passage may be linear from the distal end to the proximal end of the second part, for example, in the shape of a truncated cone. A linear reduction in cross-sectional area, such as a truncated cone shape, is advantageous in creating a smooth flow of fluid through the fluid guide.

Alternatively, the narrowing is non-uniform. For example, in certain embodiments, the expansion of the inner longitudinal passage is stepped, with the cross-sectional area of the inner longitudinal passage narrowing in discrete increments or steps from the distal end to the proximal end. The non-uniform reduction in the cross-sectional area of the internal longitudinal passage is advantageous in creating turbulence in the fluid as it passes along the fluid guide.

The diameter of the proximal end of the internal longitudinal passage is typically from 0.5 millimeters to 3 millimeters, for example 0.8 millimeters, 1 millimeters or preferably 1.2 millimeters.

The diameter of the distal end of the internal longitudinal passage is typically from 1 millimeter to 5 millimeters, for example 1.2 millimeters, 2 millimeters or preferably 2.2 millimeters.

The ratio of the diameter of the proximal end of the inner longitudinal passage to the diameter of the distal end of the inner longitudinal passage is generally 1:4 to 3:4, or 2:5 to 3:5, or preferably 1:2.

The distance between the proximal end and the distal end of the inner longitudinal passage may be any suitable distance. For example, the length of the internal longitudinal passage is typically from 3 millimeters to 15 millimeters, for example from 4 millimeters to 7 millimeters, or preferably from 5.2 millimeters to 5.8 millimeters.

In specific embodiments of the present invention, the fluid guide may be modular, comprising two or more segments that form the fluid guide.

In combination with certain embodiments, the aerosol generating article includes at least one outer longitudinal passage in communication with the opening of the wrapper. In combination with certain embodiments, the passage is formed at least in part by a wrapper, if a wrapper is present. The passage directs fluid (eg ambient air) from the opening to the tubular element containing the active substance. In specific embodiments, the outer longitudinal passage is formed in the outer portion of the fluid guide under the inner surface of the wrapper.

The aerosol generating article may comprise more than one external longitudinal passage. In specific embodiments, the aerosol generating article comprises from 2 to 20 outer longitudinal passages in an outer portion of the fluid guide. For example, the product may contain from 6 to 14 external longitudinal passages, typically from 10 to 12 passages. Different numbers of passes provide different dynamics of aerosol flow.

Preferably, each outer longitudinal passage is in communication with at least one opening through the wrapper. However, the aerosol generating article may include one or more external longitudinal passages that are not in direct communication with the opening. Preferably, each outer longitudinal passage is in communication with at least one opening through the outer wall of the fluid guide. If present, preferably the opening through the wrapper and the opening through the outer wall of the fluid guide are aligned with each other and with at least one outer longitudinal passage to provide effective fluid flow into the aerosol generating article and along the outer longitudinal passage to the distal end of the article, generating aerosol.

Preferably, the outer longitudinal passage and wrapper contain more than one opening. For example, in combination with certain embodiments, the outer longitudinal passage and wrapper contain from 2 to 20 holes. Preferably, the number of openings is equal to the number of outer longitudinal passages, and each opening corresponds to a separate outer longitudinal passage. Preferably, the holes are evenly spaced and placed in a circumferential manner around the article to promote uniform distribution of fluid.

In combination with specific embodiments, the side walls of the outer longitudinal passage extend between the outer portion of the fluid guide and the inner side of the wrapper along at least a portion of the longitudinal length of the aerosol generating article. For example, in certain embodiments, the fluid guide has longitudinal grooves that, when provided with a wrapper, define outer longitudinal passages.

In combination with certain embodiments, the outer longitudinal passages extend entirely around the inside of the wrapper. Alternatively, the outer longitudinal passage does not extend completely around the circumference of the fluid guide, for example, less than 90 percent of the circumference of the fluid guide, less than 70 percent of the circumference of the fluid guide, or less than 50 percent of the circumference of the fluid guide environment. In specific embodiments, the outer longitudinal passage extends at least 5 percent of the circumference of the fluid guide.

In combination with certain embodiments, the distal end of the outer longitudinal passage is spaced from the distal end of the aerosol generating article. Alternatively, in other specific embodiments, the distal end of the outer longitudinal passage is comparable to the distal end of the fluid guide. In combination with specific embodiments, the distal end of the outer longitudinal passage may be a distance of 2 millimeters to 20 millimeters from the distal end of the aerosol generating article, for example, a distance of 10 millimeters to 12 millimeters from the distal end of the aerosol generating article, generating aerosol.

In combination with specific embodiments, the width of the outer longitudinal passages is, for example, from 0.5 millimeters to 2 millimeters, typically from 0.75 millimeters to 1.8 millimeters.

The distal end of the longitudinal passages may be positioned at a distance from the distal end of the aerosol generating article such that fluid that enters the opening of the outer longitudinal passages can contact the tubular member and cause the aerosol to be generated or released from the gel. The aerosol generated or released in the tubular member may pass through the internal longitudinal passage of the fluid guide to the proximal end of the aerosol generating article.

Preferably, at least 5 percent of the fluid that flows through the aerosol generating article contacts the tubular member and the gel, preferably containing the active agent. More preferably, at least 25 percent of the air that flows through the article contacts the tubular member containing the active agent.

In certain embodiments, not all of the fluid will contact the tubular member, e.g., at least 5 percent of the fluid that flows through the aerosol generating article will not contact the tubular member, although in other specific embodiments this may be the case. at least 10 percent of the fluid that flows through the aerosol generating article.

In combination with certain embodiments, the distal end of the fluid guide is spaced from the distal end of the aerosol generating article. In combination with specific embodiments, the distal end of the fluid guide may be at a distance of from 2 millimeters to 20 millimeters from the distal end of the aerosol generating article, for example, from 7 millimeters to 17 millimeters from the distal end of the aerosol generating article, preferably from 12 millimeters to 16 millimeters.

Preferably, the aerosol generating article is generally cylindrical. This easily ensures a smooth aerosol flow. The aerosol generating article may have an outer diameter of, for example, 4 millimeters to 15 millimeters, 5 millimeters to 10 millimeters, or 6 millimeters to 8 millimeters. The aerosol generating article may have a length of, for example, 10 millimeters to 60 millimeters, 15 millimeters to 50 millimeters, or 20 millimeters to 45 millimeters.

The Resistance to Draw (RTD) of an aerosol generating product will vary depending on, but not limited to, the length and dimensions of the passages, the size of the openings, the dimensions of the most restricted cross-sectional area of the internal passage, and the materials used. In specific embodiments, the RTD of the aerosol generating article is from 50 to 140 millimeters of water ( _mmH2O ), from 60 millimeters of water to 120 millimeters of water ( _mmH2O ), or from 80 millimeters of water to 100 millimeters water column (mm H ₂ O). The RTD of an article refers to the static pressure difference between one or more orifices and the mouth end of the article when passing through the internal longitudinal passage, under steady-state conditions in which the volumetric flow is 17.5 milliliters per second at the mouth end. The RTD of a sample can be measured using the method outlined in ISO 6565:2002.

Preferably, the aerosol generating articles of the present invention comprise an opening at a location along the outer longitudinal passage. Thus, the opening is at a location upstream of the restrictor. In particular embodiments, the opening will be provided as a row or rows of openings through the wrapper or fluid guide, or both the fluid guide and the wrapper, and will allow fluid to be drawn into the aerosol generating article. The fluid is first drawn through the openings, then the outer longitudinal passage(s), then to the distal end of the aerosol generating article, where the fluid can contact the tubular element and preferably the gel within the tubular element, preferably the gel containing the active substance, before passing along the internal longitudinal passage and through the limiter if present in this embodiment. Preferably, the total internal fluid path from the opening to the proximal end of the aerosol generating article is at least 9 millimeters. More preferably at least 10 millimeters to ensure optimal aerosol formation with respect to, inter alia, draw resistance and cooling effect.

By adjusting the number and size of the holes, the amount of fluid admitted into the aerosol generating article upon retraction can be tailored. For example, one or two rows of holes may be formed through the wrapper to provide simple fluid flow into the aerosol generating article. In alternative specific embodiments, the wrapper contains a smaller number of holes, such as 2 or 4. The number of holes and the size of the holes will affect the flow of fluid into the aerosol generating article. Different combinations of resistance to draw (RTD) and fluid flow into an aerosol generating article may result in different aerosol formations, and therefore the aerosol generating articles of the present invention offer a wider range of design options.

In specific embodiments, the aerosol generating article comprises a plastic material such as polylactic acid, eg, pleated polylactic acid; metal material; cellulosic material, for example cellulose acetate; paper; cardboard; cotton; or combinations thereof.

In specific embodiments, the fluid guide comprises a plastic material, such as polylactic acid, eg, corrugated polylactic acid, metallic material, cellulosic material, eg, cellulose acetate, paper, cardboard, or combinations thereof.

In combination with certain embodiments, the wrapper contains more than one material. In specific embodiments, the wrapper or portion thereof comprises metallic material, plastic material, cardboard, paper, cotton, or combinations thereof. When the wrapper contains cardboard or paper, the holes can be formed by laser cuts.

The wrapper provides strength and structural rigidity to the aerosol generating article. When paper or board is used for wrapping and a high degree of strength is desired, they preferably have a density of greater than 60 grams per square meter. One such wrapper can provide high structural rigidity. The wrapper may be resistant to deformation on the outside of the aerosol generating article, at a location where the stopper, if present, is embedded within the aerosol generating article, or in other locations, such as in cavities (if present), where there is less structural support. In some embodiments, the tubular element wrapper includes a metal layer. The metal layer can be used to concentrate externally applied energy to heat the tubular piece, for example, the metal layer can act as a current collector for an electromagnetic field, or collect radiation energy supplied by an external heat source. In the presence of an internal heat source, the metal layer can prevent heat from escaping from the tubular member through the wrapper, thereby increasing the heating efficiency. This may also provide uniform heat distribution along the periphery of the tubular piece.

In specific embodiments, the aerosol generating article comprises a seal between an outer portion of the fluid guide and an interior portion of the wrapper. The wrapper can then be securely attached to the fluid guide. This does not require a fluid-tight seal.

In specific embodiments, the aerosol generating article includes a mouthpiece. The mouthpiece may include a fluid guide or a portion thereof and may form at least a proximal portion of the wrapper of the aerosol generating article. The mouthpiece may be connected to the wrapper or distal portion of the wrapper in any suitable manner, such as by an interference fit, threaded engagement, or the like. The mouthpiece may be a portion of the aerosol generating article that may include a filter, or in some cases the mouthpiece may be defined the length of the tipping paper, if any. In other embodiments, a mouthpiece may be defined as that portion of the article extending 40 millimeters from the mouthpiece end of the aerosol generating article, or extending 30 millimeters from the mouthpiece end of the aerosol generating article.

The tubular element, preferably containing a gel containing the active substance, can be placed in the aerosol generating article near the distal end before final assembly of the aerosol generating article.

Once fully assembled, the aerosol generating article defines a fluid path along which the fluid can flow. When negative pressure is provided at the mouth end (proximal end) of the aerosol generating article, fluid enters the aerosol generating article through an opening in the wrapper (or in the fluid guide, or both), then flows through the outer longitudinal passage to the distal end of the aerosol-generating product. There it can capture an aerosol, optionally generated by heating the tubular element containing the active substance. The entrained aerosol fluid may then flow through the internal longitudinal passage of the fluid guide and through the open mouthpiece end of the aerosol generating article.

Preferably, the aerosol generating article is configured to be received by the aerosol generating device, whereby a heating element of the aerosol generating device can heat the section of the aerosol generating article that contains the tubular element. For example, the tubular element may be the distal end of the aerosol generating article if the tubular element, preferably containing a gel containing the active substance, is located at or adjacent to the distal end of the aerosol generating article.

Preferably, the aerosol generating article may be shaped and sized for use with a suitably shaped and sized aerosol generating device comprising a reservoir for housing the aerosol generating article and a heating element configured and positioned to heat a section of the aerosol generating article. an aerosol which contains a tubular element, preferably containing a gel containing the active substance.

The aerosol generating device preferably includes control electronics operatively coupled to the heating element. The control electronics may be configured to control the heating of the heating element. The control electronics may be located inside the device housing.

The control electronics may be provided in any suitable form and may, for example, comprise a controller or memory device and a controller. The controller may comprise one or more of an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) state machine, a digital signal processor, a gate array, a microprocessor, or an equivalent discrete or integrated logic circuit. The control electronics may include a memory device that contains instructions that direct one or more circuit components to perform a function or aspect of the control electronics. The functions inherent in the control electronics in the present invention may be implemented as one or more of software, firmware, and hardware.

The electronic circuit may include a microprocessor, which may be a programmable microprocessor. The electronic circuit may be configured to regulate the supply of power to the heating element. Power may be supplied to the heating element in the form of pulses of electrical current. The control electronics may be configured to monitor the electrical resistance of the heating element and to control the supply of power to the heating element depending on the electrical resistance of the heating element. In this way, the control electronics can regulate the temperature of the resistive element.

The aerosol generating device may include a temperature sensor, such as a thermocouple, operably coupled to control electronics to control the temperature of the heating elements. The temperature sensor may be located at any suitable location. For example, a temperature sensor may be in contact with or adjacent to a heating element. The sensor can transmit signals regarding the measured temperature to the control electronics, which can adjust the heating of the heating element to achieve a suitable temperature at the sensor.

Regardless of whether the aerosol generating device includes a temperature sensor, the device may be configured to heat a tubular member, preferably containing a gel containing the active substance, housed in the aerosol generating article to a level sufficient to generate an aerosol.

The control electronics may be operatively coupled to a power supply, which may be located within the housing. The aerosol generating device may comprise any suitable power supply. For example, the power supply of the aerosol generating device may be a battery or a set of batteries. The batteries or power supply may be rechargeable or removable and replaceable.

In combination with certain embodiments, the heating element includes a resistive heating component, such as one or more resistive wires or other resistive elements. Resistance wires can be placed in contact with a thermally conductive material to distribute the heat produced over a wider area. Examples of suitable conductive materials include gold, aluminum, copper, zinc, nickel, silver, and combinations thereof. Preferably, if the resistance wires are in contact with a thermally conductive material, both the resistance wires and the thermally conductive material are part of the heating element.

In combination with certain embodiments, the heating element includes a cavity configured to receive and surround a distal end of the article. The heating element may include an elongated element configured to extend along the side of the product casing when the distal end of the product is received by the device.

As an alternative to inserting a heating element into the aerosol generating article, heat may be applied to the outside of the tubular element by means of a heating jacket that is thermally coupled to the circumference of the wrapper of the aerosol generating article. Preferably, the shell is located in a portion of the aerosol generating article that includes a tubular element.

In other specific embodiments, the heating element is inductively heated.

In specific embodiments, the tubular element, preferably containing a gel, preferably containing the active substance, is heated by induction heating.

Preferably, the aerosol generating part of the article containing the tubular element is located in the aerosol generating device, whereby the heating element or heating elements that generate electromagnetic radiation for induction heating are located in the vicinity of the aerosol generating part of the article which contains the tubular element. Thus, preferably, the heating elements of the aerosol generating device are located in proximity to the gel within the aerosol generating article when located in the aerosol generating device.

Preferably, in embodiments intended for use with induction heating, the aerosol generating article includes a current collector. Preferably, in embodiments intended for use with induction heating, the tubular element includes a current collector. Further preferably, in certain embodiments, the gel comprises a current collector. Preferably the current collector is in contact with or adjacent to the gel. In such embodiments of the present invention, therefore, when the current collector is heated by radiation, heat can easily be transferred to the gel, which facilitates the release of material from the gel, such as an active substance.

Additionally or alternatively in combination with other features of the present invention, the gel-filled porous medium comprises a current collector. In this way, the current collector can be in contact with the gel-filled porous medium and allows the gel-filled porous medium to be easily heated.

In certain embodiments, the gel within the tubular member may initially be separated from the aerosol contained within the tubular member and may be released to be captured by the aerosol in response to rupture of the frangible septum. Optionally, in particular embodiments, each of the plurality of gel portions may be sealed behind a respective frangible partition, and a sufficient number of frangible partitions are required to be ruptured to achieve the desired level of active agent entrapment in the aerosol contained within the tubular member during use.

In combination with certain embodiments, the aerosol generating device may be configured to accommodate more than one aerosol generating article described herein. For example, the aerosol generating device may include a reservoir into which an elongated heating element extends. One aerosol-generating article may be housed in a reservoir on one side of the heating element, and another aerosol-generating article may be housed in a reservoir on the other side of the heating element. Or in other specific embodiments, the aerosol generating device includes more than one receiving device. In this way, more than one aerosol-generating product can be accommodated at a time.

In specific embodiments, an aerosol generating article is provided for generating an aerosol, wherein the aerosol generating article comprises:

a fluid guide for allowing the fluid to move; wherein the fluid guide has a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the fluid guide has an inner longitudinal portion and an outer longitudinal portion separated by a partition; wherein the inner longitudinal portion includes an inner longitudinal passage between the distal end and the proximal end, and the outer portion includes an outer longitudinal passage that communicates the outer fluid through at least one opening with the distal end of the fluid guide, whereby the outer fluid can move along an outer longitudinal passage to the distal end of the fluid guide;

a tubular element that contains the gel; wherein the gel contains an active substance; wherein the tubular element has a proximal end and a distal end and is located at the distal end of the fluid guide;

a combustible heat source located at the distal end of the tubular element; And

a current collector located between the tubular element and a combustible heat source.

In certain embodiments, the gel may be replaced by a gel-filled porous media or a gel-filled thread, or a combination thereof.

Preferably, the aerosol generating article includes a wrapper for securing the fluid guide, tubular member, current collector, and combustible heat source in place.

Preferably, the aerosol generating article includes a cavity between the distal end of the fluid guide and the proximal end of the tubular element. This allows the fluid to mix with the material released from the gel, or the gel-filled porous material, or the gel-filled threads.

In specific embodiments, the pantograph includes peripheral parts. The peripheral portions extend along the longitudinal length of the aerosol generating article. This helps ensure that when a combustible heat source burns, the tubular element does not ignite along with it. This may also help transfer heat from the combustible heat source to the tubular element.

According to the present invention, there is provided a method for manufacturing an aerosol generating article according to any of the preceding claims,

wherein the manufacturing method includes the steps:

linearly arranged in the order of a fluid guide, a tubular member, a current collector, and a combustible heat source on the wrapping material web, thereby creating a gap between the proximal end of the tubular member and the distal end of the fluid guide; And

wrapping a web of wrapping material around a fluid guide, a tubular member, a current collector, and a combustible heat source to form an aerosol generating article.

In combination with specific embodiments, the aerosol generating article includes a combustible heat source at a distal end of the aerosol generating article at the distal side of the tubular member. An advantage of this type of heat source is that instead of the aerosol generating device having to transfer heat to the aerosol generating article, the aerosol generating article has its own heat source in the form of a combustible heat source.

In specific embodiments containing a combustible heat source, the current collector is located between the tubular member and the combustible heat source. Preferably, the current collector prevents the tubular element from burning or reaching temperatures in excess of 350 degrees Celsius.

In specific embodiments, the length of the current collector that extends between the combustible heat source and the tubular member is from 5 micrometers to 50 micrometers, preferably from 15 micrometers to 25 micrometers. In specific embodiments, the length of the current collector that extends between the combustible heat source and the tubular member is 20 micrometers.

In certain embodiments, in combination with other features, the aerosol generating article comprises a cavity between the combustible heat source and the tubular member. The cavity between the combustible heat source and the tubular member helps prevent excess heat from being transferred to the tubular member.

In specific embodiments, the current collector includes peripheral portions that extend along the outside of the tubular element or the combustible heat source, or both. The peripheral portions of the current collector immediately at the distal end facing the combustible heat source have a length typically from 3 millimeters to 7 millimeters, preferably greater than 2.5 millimeters, more preferably 3 millimeters, along the aerosol generating article. Typically, the peripheral portion of the current collector in the proximal direction toward the tubular member has a length of from 7 to 32 millimeters, preferably greater than 10 millimeters, more preferably 11 millimeters, along the aerosol generating article. These lengths of the peripheral parts of the current collector provide the desired heat transfer to the tubular element. These lengths can prevent excess heat from being transferred to the tubular member. Preferably, the current collector is located under the wrapper so that it is not substantially visible from the outside. The wrapper may contain a current collector, for example, metallized aluminum with a white coating.

When a combustible heat source is ignited, the heat is transferred through the current collector to the tubular element. Heating the tubular element assists in releasing the material from the gel, or the gel-filled porous material, or the gel-filled filament (or combinations thereof). When negative pressure is applied to the proximal end of the aerosol generating article, fluid, such as ambient air, enters the openings and may combine with materials released from the tubular member before passing to the proximal end of the aerosol generating article and out.

The combustible heat source may comprise any suitable combustible material, such as a carbon source such as cellulose or wood. Typically, the combustible heat source will have a proximal to distal end length of 9 millimeters to 12 millimeters, preferably a proximal to distal end length of 9 millimeters.

In embodiments with a combustible heat source, preferably the openings are located at a distance of more than 15 millimeters from the distal end of the aerosol generating article. Preferably the holes are at a distance of at least 1.5 millimeters from the tubular element. Typically, the tubular element has a proximal to distal end length of from 3 millimeters to 26 millimeters, preferably a proximal to distal end length of approximately 9 millimeters.

The total length of the aerosol generating article may be a length from the proximal end to the distal end of approximately 70 millimeters.

In combination with specific embodiments of the present invention, the wrapper or portion of the wrapper is water resistant or hydrophobic, resulting in the property of having some degree of water impermeability or resistance to moisture penetration. This may be a wrapper for the tubular element, or a wrapper for the aerosol generating article, or a wrapper for both the tubular element and the aerosol generating article. It may also be a wrapper for any other portion of the aerosol generating article or any other component of the aerosol generating article, including the longitudinal sides of the second tubular member within the first tubular member. The wrapper may be naturally impermeable and thus resistant to penetration of water or moisture. The wrapper may be multi-layered, having a barrier that prevents or reduces the flow of water or is at least resistant to penetration of water or moisture. In combination with certain embodiments, a hydrophobic barrier or hydrophobic treatment of the wrapper can be performed over the entire area of the wrapper. Alternatively, in other specific embodiments, the hydrophobic barrier or wrapper treatment refers to a portion of the wrapper, for example, it may be provided on one side of the wrapper: either the inside or the outside of the wrapper; or processing can be done on both sides of the wrapper.

The hydrophobic portion of the wrapper can be produced by a process comprising the steps of: applying a liquid composition comprising a fatty acid halide to at least one surface of the wrapper and maintaining the surface temperature at a value between 120 degrees Celsius and 180 degrees Celsius for about 5 minutes. . The fatty acid halide reacts in situ with the protogenic groups of the wrapper material, resulting in the formation of fatty acid esters and thus imparting hydrophobic properties and resistance to moisture penetration.

It is believed that the hydrophobically treated wrapper can reduce or prevent the adsorption of water, moisture, or liquid into or through the wrapper. The predominantly hydrophobically treated wrapper does not negatively affect the taste of the product.

In certain embodiments, the wrapper, when used as a whole, forms the outer portion of the aerosol generating article. In specific embodiments, the wrapper comprises: paper, homogenized paper, homogenized tobacco impregnated paper, homogenized tobacco, wood pulp, hemp, flax, rice straw, esparto, eucalyptus, cotton, etc. In specific embodiments, the backing or paper forming the wrapper , has a density of the substrate or paper forming the wrapper ranging from 10 to 50 grams per square meter, for example, from 15 to 45 grams per square meter. In combination with specific embodiments, the thickness of the substrate or paper forming the wrapper is in the range of 10 to 100 micrometers, or preferably 30 to 70 micrometers.

In combination with certain embodiments, the hydrophobic groups are covalently bonded to the inner surface of the wrapper. In other embodiments, the hydrophobic groups are covalently bonded to the outer surface of the wrapper. It has been found that covalently linking hydrophobic groups to only one side or surface of the wrapper imparts hydrophobic properties to the opposite side or surface of the wrapper. A hydrophobic wrapper or a hydrophobically treated wrapper can reduce or prevent the release or absorption or transfer of a fluid, such as a liquid flavor or liquid releasing component, through the wrapper.

In various specific embodiments, the wrapper and, in particular, the portion of the wrapper adjacent to the tubular element, preferably containing the gel containing the active substance, is hydrophobic or has one or more hydrophobic regions. This hydrophobic wrapper or hydrophobically treated wrapper may have a Cobb water absorption value (ISO535:1991) (at 60 seconds) of less than 40 grams per square meter, less than 35 grams per square meter, less than 30 grams per square meter or less than 25 grams per square meter.

In various specific embodiments, the wrapper, and in particular the portion of the wrapper adjacent to the tubular element, preferably containing the gel containing the active substance, has a water contact angle of at least 90 degrees, for example at least 95 degrees, at least at least 100 degrees, at least 110 degrees, at least 120 degrees, at least 130 degrees, at least 140 degrees, at least 150 degrees, at least 160 degrees or at least 170 degrees. Hydrophobicity is determined using the TAPPI T558 om-97 test and the result is reported as the interfacial contact angle expressed in “degrees,” which can range from zero degrees to about 180 degrees. If the contact angle is not specified with the term "hydrophobic", then the water contact angle is at least 90 degrees.

In combination with certain embodiments, the hydrophobic surface is present uniformly along the length of the wrapper; alternatively, in other specific embodiments, the hydrophobic surface is present non-uniformly along the length of the wrapper.

Preferably, the wrapper is formed from any suitable cellulosic material, preferably a cellulosic material derived from plants. In many embodiments, the wrapper is formed from a material with suspended protonogenic groups. Preferably, the protonogenic groups are reactive hydrophilic groups, such as, but not limited to, a hydroxyl group (-OH), an amino group (-NH ₂ ), or a sulfhydryl group (-SH ₂ ).

Particularly suitable wrappers that are adapted to the present invention will be described below by way of example. Wrapping material with suspended hydroxyl groups includes cellulosic material such as paper, wood, textiles, natural as well as man-made fibers. The wrapper may also include one or more filler materials, for example, calcium carbonate, carboxymethylcellulose, potassium citrate, sodium citrate, sodium acetate or activated carbon.

The hydrophobic surface or portion of the cellulosic wrapper material may be formed using any suitable hydrophobic reagent or hydrophobic group. The hydrophobic agent is preferably chemically bonded to the cellulosic material or suspended protonogenic groups of the cellulosic material forming the wrapper. In many embodiments, the hydrophobic reactant is covalently bonded to the cellulosic material or pendant protonogenic groups of the cellulosic material. For example, the hydrophobic group is covalently bonded to the pendant hydroxyl groups of the cellulosic wrapper material. The covalent bond between the structural components of the cellulosic material and the hydrophobic agent can form hydrophobic groups that are more securely attached to the paper material than by simply placing a coating of the hydrophobic material on the cellulosic material forming the wrapper. By chemically binding the hydrophobic agent at the molecular level in situ, rather than applying a bulk layer of hydrophobic material to coat the surface, the permeability of a cellulosic material such as paper is better maintained since the coating tends to cover or block the pores in the cellulosic material forming a continuous sheet, and reduce permeability. Chemically bonding hydrophobic groups to the paper in situ may also reduce the amount of material needed to render the wrapper surface hydrophobic. The term "in situ" as used herein refers to the location of a chemical reaction that occurs at or near the surface of the solid material from which the wrapper is formed, as distinct from a reaction with cellulose dissolved in solution. For example, the reaction occurs on or adjacent to the surface of a cellulosic wrapper material that contains cellulosic material in a heterogeneous structure. However, the term "in situ" does not require that the chemical reaction occur directly on the cellulosic material forming the hydrophobic portion of the tube.

The hydrophobic reagent may contain an acyl group or a fatty acid group. The acyl group or fatty acid group, or a mixture thereof, may be saturated or unsaturated. The fatty acid group (such as a fatty acid halide) in the reactant can react with pendant protonogenic groups, such as hydroxyl groups of the cellulosic material, to form an ester bond covalently linking the fatty acid to the cellulosic material. Essentially, these reactions with pendant hydroxyl groups can esterify cellulosic material.

In some embodiments of the wrapper, the acyl group or fatty acid group includes a C ₁₂ -C ₃₀ alkyl (an alkyl group containing 12 to 30 carbon atoms), a C ₁₄ -C ₂₄ alkyl (an alkyl group containing 14 to 24 carbon atoms), or preferably C ₁₆ -C ₂₀ alkyl (alkyl group containing from 16 to 20 carbon atoms). It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the term "fatty acid" as used herein refers to a long chain aliphatic, saturated or unsaturated fatty acid that contains from 12 to 30 carbon atoms, from 14 to 24 carbon atoms, from 16 to 20 carbon atoms or which contains more than 15, 16, 17, 18, 19 or 20 carbon atoms. In various embodiments, the hydrophobic reactant includes an acyl halide, a fatty acid halide, such as a fatty acid chloride including, for example, palmitic acid chloride, stearic acid chloride or behenic acid chloride, or a mixture thereof. The in situ reaction between the fatty acid chloride and the cellulosic material forming the continuous sheet results in the formation of fatty acid cellulose hydrochloric acid esters.

Any suitable method of forming a chemical bond between the hydrophobic reactant or group and the cellulosic material forming the hydrophobic portion of the tube may be used. The hydrophobic group is covalently bonded to the cellulosic material by diffusion of the fatty acid halide onto its surface without the use of a solvent.

As one example, an amount of a hydrophobic reagent such as an acyl halide, a fatty acid halide, a fatty acid chloride, a palmitic acid chloride, a stearic acid chloride, or a behenic acid chloride, a mixture thereof, was applied (solventless process) to the surface of a wrapper paper at controlled temperature, for example, drops of reagents forming circles on the surface with a diameter of 20 micrometers, located at an equal distance from each other. By controlling the vapor pressure of the reactant, the reaction can be promoted by diffusion to form ester bonds between the fatty acid and cellulose while continuously removing unreacted acid chloride. Esterification of cellulose in some cases is based on the reaction of alcohol groups or pendant hydroxyl groups of cellulose with an acyl halide, such as a carboxylic acid chloride, including a fatty acid chloride. The temperature that can be used to heat the hydrophobic reactant depends on the chemical properties of the reactant, and for fatty acid halides it ranges, for example, from 120 degrees Celsius to 180 degrees Celsius.

The hydrophobic agent can be applied to the cellulosic wrapper paper material in any applicable amount or basis weight. In many embodiments, the basis weight of the hydrophobic reactant is less than 3 grams per square meter, less than 2 grams per square meter, or less than 1 gram per square meter, or ranges from 0.1 to 3 grams per square meter, from 0. 1 to 2 grams per square meter or 0.1 to 1 gram per square meter. The hydrophobic agent can be applied or printed on the surface of the wrapping paper and determines a uniform or non-uniform distribution pattern.

Preferably, the hydrophobic portion of the tube is formed by reacting a fatty acid ester group or fatty acid group with pendant hydroxyl groups in the cellulosic wrapper paper material to form a hydrophobic surface. The reaction step can be accomplished by applying a fatty acid halide (eg, such as an acid chloride), which causes a chemical bond to form between the fatty acid ester group or fatty acid group and the pendant hydroxyl groups in the cellulosic wrapper paper material to form a hydrophobic surface. The application step can be accomplished by loading the fatty acid halide in liquid form onto a solid support, such as a brush, roller, or absorbent or non-absorbent pad, and then bringing the solid support into contact with the surface of the paper. The fatty acid halide can also be applied using printing techniques such as intaglio printing, flexography, inkjet printing, heliography, by spraying, by wetting, or by immersion in a liquid containing the fatty acid halide. During the application step, individual areas of the reagent can be deposited to form a uniform or non-uniform distribution pattern of hydrophobic regions on the surface of the wrapping paper. The uniform or non-uniform distribution pattern of hydrophobic regions on the wrapper paper may be formed from at least 100 individual hydrophobic regions, at least 500 individual hydrophobic regions, at least 1000 individual hydrophobic regions, or at least 5000 individual hydrophobic regions. The individual hydrophobic regions may have any suitable shape, such as, for example, a circle, a rectangle, or a polygon. The individual hydrophobic regions may have any suitable average lateral size. In many embodiments, the individual hydrophobic regions have an average lateral size in the range of 5 to 100 micrometers, or in the range of 5 to 50 micrometers. To promote diffusion of the applied reagent onto the surface, a gas stream can also be applied to the surface of the wrapper.

In combination with certain embodiments, a hydrophobic wrapper can be prepared by a process comprising applying a liquid composition comprising an aliphatic acid halide (preferably a fatty acid halide) to at least one surface of the wrapper paper, optionally applying a jet of gas to the surface of the wrapper to promote diffusion applied fatty acid halide, and maintaining for at least 5 minutes the temperature of the surface of the wrapper at a value of from 120 degrees Celsius to 180 degrees Celsius, wherein the fatty acid halide reacts in situ with hydroxyl groups of the cellulosic material in the wrapper paper, resulting in leads to the formation of fatty acid esters. Preferably, the wrapper paper is derived from paper and the fatty acid halide is stearic acid chloride, palmitic acid chloride or a mixture of fatty acid chlorides with 16-20 carbon atoms in the acyl group. The hydrophobic wrapper paper produced by the process described above herein is thus different from the material produced by coating the surface with a layer of preformed fatty acid cellulose ester.

The hydrophobic wrapper can be prepared by a process of applying a liquid reactant composition to at least one surface of the wrapper paper at a rate in the range of 0.1 to 3 grams per square meter, or 0.1 to 2 grams per square meter, or 0.1 to 1 gram per square meter. The liquid reagent applied at these rates makes the surface of the wrapping paper hydrophobic.

In many specific embodiments, the thickness of the wrapper paper allows hydrophobic groups or reactant applied to one surface to spread to the opposite surface, effectively imparting similar hydrophobic properties to both opposing surfaces. In one example, the wrapper paper was 43 micrometers thick and both surfaces were rendered hydrophobic using a (gravure) printing process using stearic acid chloride as the hydrophobic reagent for one surface.

In some specific embodiments, the material or method designed to create the hydrophobic nature of a hydrophobic portion of the tube does not substantially affect the permeability of the wrap in other portions. Preferably, the reagent or method for creating a hydrophobic portion of the tube changes the permeability of the wrapper in that treated portion (relative to the untreated portion of the wrapper) by less than 10 percent, or less than 5 percent, or less than 1 percent.

In many specific embodiments, the hydrophobic surface can be formed by printing a reagent along the length of the cellulosic material. Any applicable printing methods may be used, such as intaglio printing, inkjet printing, etc. Intaglio printing is preferred. The reactant may include any applicable hydrophobic groups that may be chemically, eg covalently, associated with the wrapper, particularly with the cellulosic material or suspended groups of the cellulosic wrapper material.

In combination with specific embodiments of the present invention, the aerosol generating article includes a current collector. In combination with certain embodiments, the tubular element includes a current collector. Preferably, the current collector is elongated and is located longitudinally within the tubular element. Preferably, the current collector is in thermal contact with the gel or porous material filled with the gel. This may facilitate the transfer of heat from the heating element in the aerosol generating device to and through the aerosol generating article, preferably the tubular element, to the susceptor and hence to the gel or gel-filled porous medium when in proximity to the susceptor. When heating is carried out by induction heating, the fluctuating electromagnetic field is transmitted through the aerosol generating article, preferably through a tubular element to the pantograph, whereby the pantograph converts the fluctuating field into thermal energy, thereby heating the nearby gel or porous material filled with gel. Typically, the pantograph has a thickness ranging from 10 to 500 micrometers. In preferred embodiments, the pantograph has a thickness ranging from 10 to 100 micrometers. Alternatively, the current collector may be in the form of a powder that is dispersed within the gel. Typically, the current collector is configured to dissipate between 1 watt and 8 watts of energy when used in conjunction with a particular inductor, such as 1.5 watts and 6 watts. By "capable" is meant that the elongated current collector may be made of a specific material and may have a specific dimensions that provides the ability to dissipate energy in an amount of 1 watt to 8 watts when used in conjunction with a specific conductor that generates a fluctuating magnetic field with a known frequency and known field strength.

In a further aspect, the present invention provides an aerosol generating system comprising an electrically controlled aerosol generating device having an inductor for producing an alternating or fluctuating electromagnetic field, and an aerosol generating article comprising a current collector as described and defined herein. The aerosol-generating article engages with the aerosol-generating device, whereby the fluctuating electromagnetic field generated by the inductor induces a current in the pantograph, resulting in heating of the pantograph. The electrically controlled aerosol generating device is preferably configured to generate a fluctuating electromagnetic field having a magnetic field strength (magnetic field strength) of from 1 kiloampere per meter to 5 kiloampere per meter (kA/m), preferably from 2 kiloampere per meter to 3 kiloamperes per meter (kA/m), for example, 2.5 kiloamperes per meter (kA/m). The electrically controlled aerosol generating device is preferably configured to generate a fluctuating electromagnetic field having a frequency of 1 megahertz (MHz) to 30 megahertz, such as 1 megahertz to 10 megahertz, such as 5 megahertz to 7 megahertz.

Preferably, the elongated current collector according to the present invention is part of a consumable element and is thus used only once. The flavoring of subsequent aerosol generating articles may be more uniform due to the fact that a new current collector is used to heat each aerosol generating article. The requirement to clean the aerosol generating device is greatly simplified for devices with reusable heating elements and can be accomplished without damaging the heat source. In addition, the absence of a heating element that must penetrate the aerosol-generating substrate means that insertion of the aerosol-generating article into and removal from the aerosol-generating device is less likely to cause accidental damage to either the aerosol-generating article or the device. generating aerosol. Therefore, the entire aerosol generating system is reliable.

When the pantograph is inside a fluctuating electromagnetic field, the eddy currents induced in the pantograph cause the pantograph to heat up. Ideally, the susceptor is in thermal contact with the gel or gel-filled porous material of the tubular member such that the gel or gel-filled porous material, or both the gel and the gel-filled porous material, is heated by the susceptor.

In combination with specific embodiments, the aerosol generating article is configured to engage with an electrically controlled aerosol generating device comprising an induction heating source. An induction heating source or inductor generates a fluctuating electromagnetic field to heat a current collector located within the fluctuating electromagnetic field. When in use, the aerosol-generating article engages with the aerosol-generating device, causing the susceptor to be located within the fluctuating electromagnetic field generated by the inductor.

Preferably, the pantograph has a length dimension that is greater than its width dimension or its thickness dimension, for example twice its width dimension or its thickness dimension. Thus, the pantograph can be described as an oblong pantograph. Such a current collector is located substantially longitudinally within the rod. This means that the length dimension of the elongated pantograph is positioned to be approximately parallel to the longitudinal direction of the aerosol generating article, for example within a range of plus or minus 10 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis relative to the longitudinal direction of the rod. In preferred embodiments, the elongated susceptor element may be located at a radially central position within the aerosol generating article and extends along the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generating article.

The current collector is preferably in the form of a pin, rod, strip, sheet or plate. The current collector preferably has a length of from 5 millimeters to 15 millimeters, for example from 6 millimeters to 12 millimeters or from 8 millimeters to 10 millimeters. Typically, the length of the current collector is at least the same as that of the tubular element, thus typically ranging from 20 percent to 120 percent of the longitudinal length of the tubular element, for example, from 50 to 120 percent of the length of the tubular element, preferably from 80 percent up to 120 percent of the longitudinal length of the tubular element. The pantograph preferably has a width of 1 millimeter to 5 millimeters, and may have a thickness of 0.01 millimeters to 2 millimeters, for example 0.5 millimeters to 2 millimeters. A preferred embodiment may have a thickness ranging from 10 micrometers to 500 micrometers, or even more preferably from 10 micrometers to 100 micrometers. If the pantograph has a constant cross-section, for example a circular cross-section, it has a preferred width or diameter of from 1 millimeter to 5 millimeters.

The current collector may be formed from any material that can be inductively heated to a temperature sufficient to generate an aerosol from the aerosol-forming substrate. In preferred embodiments, the current collector comprises metal or carbon. A preferred current collector may comprise a ferromagnetic material, for example ferritic cast iron, or ferromagnetic steel, or stainless steel. In other specific embodiments, the pantograph comprises aluminum. Preferred pantographs may be formed from 400 series stainless steel, such as 410 stainless steel, or 420 stainless steel, or 430 stainless steel. Different materials will dissipate different amounts of energy when located within electromagnetic fields having similar frequencies and field strengths. Thus, all parameters of the current collector, such as material type, length, width and thickness, can be changed to provide the desired power dissipation within a known electromagnetic field.

Preferably, the pantographs are heated to temperatures in excess of 250 degrees Celsius. However, preferably the pantographs are heated to a temperature of less than 350 degrees Celsius to prevent the material in contact with the pantograph from igniting. Suitable current collectors may comprise a non-metallic core with a metal layer placed on the non-metallic core, for example, with metal tracks formed on the surface of the ceramic core.

The pantograph may have a protective outer layer, such as a protective ceramic layer or a protective glass layer, surrounding the elongated pantograph. The pantograph may include a protective coating formed of glass, ceramic, or inert metal formed over the core material of the pantograph.

Preferably, the current collector is placed in thermal contact with the aerosol-forming substrate, for example within a tubular element. Thus, when the pantograph is heated, the aerosol-forming substrate is heated and the material is released from the gel to form an aerosol. Preferably, the current collector is placed in direct physical contact with the gel containing the active substance, for example within a tubular element, the current collector being preferably surrounded by the gel or a porous medium filled with the gel.

In specific embodiments, the aerosol generating article or tubular element includes a single current collector. Alternatively, in other specific embodiments, the tubular element or aerosol generating article includes more than one current collector.

Any of the features described herein with respect to a particular embodiment, aspect, or example of a tubular element, aerosol generating article, or aerosol generating device may be equally applied to any embodiment of a tubular element, aerosol generating article, or aerosol generating device. aerosol generating device.

Reference will now be made to drawings which depict one or more aspects described in the present invention. However, it will be understood that other aspects not depicted in the drawings fall within the scope of the present invention. Like numbers used in the figures refer to like components, steps, etc. It will be understood, however, that the use of a number to designate a component in a given figure is not intended to limit a component in another figure designated by the same number. Additionally, the use of different numbers to designate components in different figures is not intended to indicate that components of different numbers may not be the same or similar to components of other numbers. The figures are presented for purposes of illustration and not limitation. The schematic representations shown in the figures are not necessarily to scale.

Fig. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device and a schematic side view of an aerosol generating article that can be inserted into the aerosol generating device.

Fig. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the aerosol generating device shown in FIG. 1 and a schematic side view of the product shown in FIG. 1 inserted into an aerosol generating device.

Fig. 3-6 are schematic cross-sectional views of various embodiments of aerosol generating articles.

Fig. 7 is a schematic side view of an aerosol generating article.

Fig. 8 is a schematic perspective view of an embodiment of the aerosol generating article depicted in FIG. 7, in which a section of the wrapper has been removed for illustrative purposes.

Fig. 9 is a schematic side view of an aerosol generating article.

Fig. 10 is a schematic side view of an embodiment of the aerosol generating article depicted in FIG. 9, with part of the wrapper removed.

Fig. 11 is a schematic view of a fluid guide of a sample aerosol generating article.

Fig. 12 is a schematic view of a sample aerosol generating article on which the fluid guide shown in FIG. 11, inserted.

In fig. 13 is a cross-sectional view along the length of an aerosol generating article.

In fig. 14, 15 and 16 show a perspective view and two cross-sectional views of a tubular member for an aerosol generating article.

In fig. 17 shows part of a manufacturing process for a tubular member for an aerosol generating article.

In fig. 18 shows part of an additional manufacturing process for a tubular member for an aerosol generating article.

In fig. 19 shows part of an alternative manufacturing process for a tubular member for an aerosol generating article.

In fig. 20 shows an aerosol generating system comprising an electrically heated aerosol generating device and an aerosol generating article.

In fig. 21, 22 and 23 show cross-sectional views of additional tubular elements for the aerosol generating article.

In fig. 24 is a sectional view along the length of the aerosol generating article.

In fig. 25-29 show schematic cross-sectional views of various tubular members.

In fig. 30-34 show schematic cross-sectional views of various tubular members.

In fig. 35 is a schematic diagram of a manufacturing process according to the present invention.

In fig. 36 is an enlarged schematic view of one part of the manufacturing process shown in FIG. 35.

In fig. 37 is a schematic diagram of a manufacturing process according to the present invention.

In fig. 38 is an enlarged schematic view of one part of the manufacturing process shown in FIG. 37.

In fig. 39 is an enlarged schematic view of one part of the manufacturing process shown in FIG. 37.

In fig. 40 is a schematic diagram of a manufacturing process according to the present invention.

In fig. 41 is an enlarged schematic view of one part of the manufacturing process shown in FIG. 40.

In fig. 42 is an enlarged schematic view of one part of the manufacturing process shown in FIG. 40.

In fig. 43 is a schematic diagram of a manufacturing process according to the present invention.

In fig. 44 is an enlarged schematic view of one part of the manufacturing process shown in FIG. 43.

In fig. 45 is a schematic diagram of a manufacturing process according to the present invention.

In fig. 46 is an enlarged schematic view of one part of the manufacturing process shown in FIG. 45.

In fig. 47 is an enlarged schematic view of one part of the manufacturing process shown in FIG. 45.

In fig. 48 is a schematic diagram of a manufacturing process according to the present invention.

In fig. 49 is an enlarged schematic view of one part of the manufacturing process shown in FIG. 48.

In fig. 50 is a schematic diagram of a manufacturing process according to the present invention.

In fig. 51 is an enlarged schematic view of one part of the manufacturing process shown in FIG. 50.

In fig. 52 is an enlarged schematic view of one part of the manufacturing process shown in FIG. 50.

In fig. 53 is a schematic diagram of a manufacturing process according to the present invention.

In fig. 54 is an enlarged schematic view of one part of the manufacturing process shown in FIG. 53.

In fig. 55 is an enlarged schematic view of one part of the manufacturing process shown in FIG. 53.

In fig. 56 is a schematic diagram of a manufacturing process according to the present invention.

In fig. 57 is an enlarged schematic view of one part of the manufacturing process shown in FIG. 56.

In fig. 1-6 show a longitudinal sectional view of aerosol generating articles 100. In other words, in FIG. 1-6 show a longitudinal cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating article 100 in half. In the embodiments of FIGS. 1-6, the aerosol generating product is tubular. Looking at the entire end surface of the aerosol generating article 100 in FIG. 1-6, either from the near end 101 or from the far end 103 it will be round. Tubular member 500, if used or shown in the embodiments of FIGS. 1-6 is also tubular. The tubular element 500 is optionally a tubular component of the tubular aerosol generating article 100, in accordance with the embodiments of FIGS. 1-6. Looking at the entire end surface of the tubular member 500 used or shown in the embodiment of FIG. 1-6, whether from the proximal end or the distal end, the surface of the tubular member will be round. Since FIG. 1-6 are a two-dimensional longitudinal sectional view, the side curvature of the aerosol generating article and the tubular member 600, among other components, cannot be seen. The drawings are for illustrative purposes to explain the present invention and may not be to scale. Tubular member 500, if shown in FIG. 1-6 is intended to illustrate a tubular member 500 in an aerosol generating article 100, but features of the aerosol generating article 100 are optional with respect to the illustrated embodiment of the tubular member 500 and should not be construed as essential features of the tubular member 500.

In fig. 1-2 illustrate an example of an aerosol generating article 100 and an aerosol generating device 200. The aerosol generating article 100 has a proximal or mouth end 101 and a distal end 103. In FIG. 2, the distal end 103 of the aerosol generating article 100 is housed in a reservoir 220 of the aerosol generating device 200. The aerosol generating device 200 includes a wrapper 110 defining a reservoir 220 that is configured to receive the aerosol generating article 100. The aerosol generating device 200 also includes a heating element 230 that defines a cavity 235 configured to receive the aerosol generating article 100, preferably through an interference fit. Heating element 230 may include an electrically resistive heating component. Additionally, device 200 includes a power supply 240 and control electronics 250 that interact to control the heating of heating element 230.

The heating element 230 may heat the distal end 103 of the aerosol generating article 100, which includes a tubular element 500 (not shown). In this example, the tubular member 500 contains a gel 124 containing an active agent, wherein the active agent comprises nicotine. Heating of the aerosol generating article 100 causes the tubular member 500 containing the active agent containing gel 124 to generate an aerosol containing the active agent, which can be transferred from the aerosol generating article 100 to the proximal end 101. The aerosol generating device 200 includes a housing. 210.

In fig. 1-2 does not show the exact heating mechanism.

In some examples, the heating mechanism may perform heating by conduction, where heat is transferred from the heating element 230 of the aerosol generating device 200 to the aerosol generating article 100. This can occur easily when the aerosol generating article 100 is located in the reservoir 220 of the aerosol generating device 200 and the distal end 103 (which is preferably the end where the tubular member 500 containing the gel is located), and thus the article 100, the aerosol generating device is in contact with the heating element 230 of the aerosol generating device 200. In specific examples, the heating element includes a heating plate that protrudes from the aerosol generating device 200 and is suitable for penetrating the aerosol generating article 100 to create direct contact with the gel 124 of the tubular element 500.

In this example, the heating mechanism performs heating by induction, where the heating element emits radiomagnetic radiation, which is absorbed by the tubular element when the aerosol generating article 100 is located in the reservoir 220 of the aerosol generating device 200.

In fig. 3a and 3b depict an embodiment of an aerosol generating article 100 comprising a wrapper 110 and a fluid guide 400. In fig. 3a and 3b show a longitudinal sectional view of an aerosol generating article 100. In other words, FIG. 3a and fig. 3b is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the aerosol generating article 100 in half. In the embodiment of FIG. 3a and fig. 3b the aerosol generating article is tubular. Looking at the entire end surface of the aerosol generating article 100 in FIG. 3a or 3b from either the proximal end 101 or the distal end 103, it will be round. Tubular element 500 in FIG. 3a or fig. 3b is also tubular. The tubular member 500 is a tubular component of the tubular aerosol generating article 100 in accordance with the embodiments of FIGS. 3a and fig. 3b. Looking at the entire end surface of the tubular member 500 according to the embodiment of FIG. 3a or fig. 3b from either the proximal end or the distal end, the surface of the tubular member will be circular. Since FIG. 3a and fig. 3b is a two-dimensional longitudinal sectional view, the side curvature of the aerosol generating article and the tubular member 600, among other components, cannot be seen. In fig. 3a, the proximal end of the tubular member 500 is not shown as a straight edge. In fig. 3b shows the proximal end of the tubular member 500 as a straight line parallel to the width of the aerosol generating article. The drawings are for illustrative purposes to explain the present invention and may not be to scale. A tubular member 500 is shown in FIG. 3a and fig. 3b to illustrate a tubular element in an aerosol generating article, but the features of the aerosol generating article 100 are optional with respect to the illustrated embodiment of the tubular element and should not be construed as essential features of the tubular element 500.

The fluid guide 400 has a proximal end 401, a distal end 403, and an inner longitudinal passage 430 from the distal end 403 to the proximal end 401. The inner longitudinal passage 430 has a first portion 410 and a second portion 420. The first portion 410 defines a first portion of the passage 430, which extends from the distal end 413 of the first portion 410 to the proximal end 411 of the first portion 410. The second portion 420 defines a second portion of the passage 430 that extends from the distal end 423 of the second portion 420 to the proximal end 421 of the second portion 420. The first portion 410 of the passage 430 has a narrowed area cross-section extending from the distal end 413 to the proximal end 411 of the first portion 410 to cause acceleration of a fluid, such as air, through the first portion 410 of the inner longitudinal passage 430 when negative pressure is applied to the proximal end 101 of the aerosol generating article 100. The cross-sectional area of the first portion 410 of the inner longitudinal passage 430 tapers from the distal end 413 to the proximal end 411 of the first portion 410. The second portion 420 of the inner longitudinal passage 430 has a widening cross-sectional area from the distal end 423 to the proximal end 421 of the second portion 420 of the fluid guide 400 environment. In the second portion 420 of the inner longitudinal passage 430, the fluid may slow down.

The wrapper 110 defines the open proximal end 101 of the aerosol generating article 100 and the distal end 103. A tubular member 500 containing an active agent containing gel (not shown) is disposed at the distal end 103 of the aerosol generating article 100. The aerosol generating article 100 includes an end plug 600 at its extreme distal end 103. The end plug 600 is located on the distal side of the tubular member 500. The end plug 600 contains a material with high draw resistance, thereby deflecting fluid to enter the aerosol generating article 100. an aerosol through openings 150 when negative pressure is applied to the proximal end 101 of the aerosol generating article 100. The aerosol generated or released from the tubular member 500 containing the active agent, when heated, may enter a cavity 140 in the aerosol generating article downstream of the tubular member 500 for transport through the internal longitudinal passage 430.

The openings 150 extend through the wrapper 110. At least one opening 150 is in communication with an outer longitudinal passage 440 formed between the outer surface of the fluid guide 400 and the inner surface of the wrapper 110. A seal is formed between the fluid guide 400 and the wrapper 110 at the location between holes 150 and proximal end 101.

When negative pressure is applied to the proximal end 101 of the aerosol generating article 100, fluid enters the openings 150, flows through the outer longitudinal passages 440 into the cavity 140 and to the tubular element 500 containing the gel containing the active substance, where the fluid can entrain the aerosol, when the tubular member 500 containing the gel containing the active substance is heated. The fluid then flows through the inner longitudinal passage 430 and through the proximal end 101 of the aerosol generating article 100. As fluid flows through the first portion 410 of the inner longitudinal passage 430, the fluid accelerates. As fluid flows through the second portion of the inner longitudinal passage 430, the fluid slows down. In the illustrated embodiment, the wrapper 110 defines a proximal cavity 130 between the proximal end 401 of the fluid guide 400 and the proximal end 101 of the article 100, which may serve to slow down the fluid before exiting the mouthpiece end 101.

In fig. 4 depicts another embodiment of an aerosol generating article 100 including a wrapper 110 and a fluid guide 400.

The fluid guide 400 has a proximal end 401, a distal end 403, and an internal longitudinal passage 430 from the distal end 403 to a proximal end 401. The internal longitudinal passage 430 has a first portion 410, a second portion 420, and a third portion 435. The first portion 410 is located between the second portion 420 and the third 435 parts. The first portion 410 defines a first portion of the inner longitudinal passage 430 that extends from the distal end 413 of the first portion 410 to the proximal end 411 of the first portion 410. The second portion 420 defines a second portion of the inner longitudinal passage 430 that extends from the distal end 423 of the second portion 420 to the proximal end end 421 of the second portion 420. The third portion 435 defines a third portion of the inner longitudinal passage 430 that extends from the distal end 433 of the third portion to the proximal end 431 of the third portion. The third portion 435 has a substantially constant inner diameter from the proximal end 431 to the distal end 433. The first portion 410 of the inner longitudinal passage 430 has a narrowed cross-sectional area extending from the distal end 413 to the proximal end 411 of the first portion 410 to cause fluid acceleration through this first portion 410 of the inner longitudinal passage 430 when negative pressure is applied at the proximal end 101 of the aerosol generating article 100. The cross-sectional area of the first portion 410 of the internal longitudinal passage 430 tapers from the distal end 413 to the proximal end 411 of the first portion 410. The second portion 420 of the internal longitudinal passage 430 has a widening cross-sectional area from the distal end 423 to the proximal end 421 of the second portion 420 of the internal passage 430 for fluid medium. In the second portion 420 of the inner longitudinal passage 430, the fluid may slow down as it moves from the far to the near direction.

Like product 100 shown in FIG. 3, the product shown in FIG. 4 includes a wrap 110 that defines an open proximal end 101 and a distal end 103 with a high-tightness end plug 600. A tubular member 500 containing a gel containing the active substance is located at the distal end 103 of the aerosol generating article. The aerosol released from the gel containing the active substance, when heated, can enter the cavity 140 in the aerosol generating article 110 for transfer through the internal longitudinal passage 430.

Although this is not shown in FIG. 4, the aerosol generating article 100 includes at least one opening (e.g., openings 150 shown in FIG. 3) that extends through the wrapper 110 and is in communication with an outer longitudinal passage 440 formed between the outer surface of the fluid guide 400. environment and the inner surface of the wrapper 110. A seal is formed between the fluid guide 400 and the wrapper 110 at a location between the holes and the proximal end 101. Although the seal need not be fluid-tight, it is advantageous that the seal here has a high tightening resistance or some degree of impermeability to deflect fluid entering the openings 150 along the outer longitudinal passages in a distal direction toward the tubular member 500. A third portion 435 of the fluid guide 400 extends along the length of the fluid guide 400 and the outer longitudinal passage 440 to provide additional distance between the holes (not shown in Fig. 4, which may be located near the proximal end 401 of the inner longitudinal passage) and a tubular member 500 containing the active agent-containing gel, such that leakage of the active agent-containing gel through the openings 150 is unlikely.

When negative pressure is applied to the proximal end 101 of the aerosol generating article 100 shown in FIG. 4, fluid enters the openings 150, flows through the outer longitudinal passage 440 into the cavity 140 and to the tubular member 500 containing the active agent-containing gel, where the fluid can entrain material from the active agent-containing gel when heated. Fluid may then flow through the inner longitudinal passage 430 and through the proximal end 101 of the aerosol generating article. As fluid flows through the inner longitudinal passage 430, the fluid flows through the third portion 435, the first portion 410, and then the second portion 420 of the aerosol generating article 100. As fluid flows through the first portion 410 of the inner longitudinal passage 430, the fluid accelerates. As fluid flows through the second portion 420 of the inner longitudinal passage 430, the fluid slows down. In alternative specific embodiments, the second portion 420 and the third portion 435 of the inner longitudinal passage 430 are optional. In the illustrated embodiment, the wrapper defines a proximal cavity 130 between the proximal end 401 of the fluid guide 400 and the proximal end 101 of the article 100, which may serve to slow the fluid before exiting the proximal end 101.

In fig. 5 and fig. 6 depicts additional embodiments of aerosol generating articles 100 that include a wrapper 110, an end plug 600, a tubular member 500 that contains a gel containing the active agent, a proximal cavity 130, a cavity 140, and a fluid guide 400. The fluid guide 400 has a proximal end 401, a distal end 403, and an internal longitudinal passage 430 from the distal end 403 to a proximal end 401. The internal longitudinal passage 430 has a first portion 410 and a third portion 435. The first portion 410 defines a first portion 410 of the internal longitudinal passage. 430 that extends from the distal end 413 of the first portion 410 to the proximal end 411 of the first portion 410. The third portion 435 defines a third portion of the inner longitudinal passage 430 that extends from the proximal end 433 of the third portion 435 to the distal end 431 of the third portion 435. The third portion 435 has a substantially constant internal diameter from proximal end 433 to distal end 431.

In fig. 5, the first portion 410 of the internal longitudinal passage 430 has a substantially constant internal diameter from the distal end 413 to the proximal end 411 of the first portion 410. The internal diameter of the internal longitudinal passage 430 on the first portion 410 is smaller than the internal diameter of the internal longitudinal passage 430 on the third portion 435. The limited inner diameter of the inner longitudinal passage 430 on the first portion 410 relative to the third portion 435 may cause the fluid to accelerate as it flows from the third portion 435 to the first portion 410.

In fig. 6, the first portion 410 of the fluid guide 400 includes a plurality of segments 410A, 410B, 410C with stepped inner diameters. The outermost segment 410A has the largest internal diameter, and the proximal segment 410C has the smallest internal diameter. As fluid flows through the inner longitudinal passage 430 from the first segment 410A to the second segment 401B and from the second segment 410B to the third segment 410C, the fluid may accelerate as the cross-sectional area of the inner longitudinal passage 430 narrows in a stepwise manner.

The first parts 410 in FIG. 5 and fig. 6 provide examples of a design that may be useful when the material used to form the first portion 410 is not easily moldable. For example, the first portion 410 or segments 410A, 410B, 410C of the first portion 410 may be formed from cellulose acetate rod. In contrast, the first parts 410 of the fluid guide 400 shown in FIG. 3 and fig. 4 provide examples of a design that may be useful when the material used to form the first portion 410 is moldable, for example, when the first portion is formed from, for example, polyetheretherketone (PEEK).

Like the aerosol generating article 100 shown in FIG. 3 and fig. 4, the aerosol generating products shown in FIG. 5 and fig. 6 include a wrap 110 that defines an open proximal end 101 and a distal end 103 with an end cap 600, the end cap 600 having a high pull resistance. A tubular member 500, in these examples containing a gel 124 containing the active substance, is located at the distal end 103 of the aerosol generating article 100. The aerosol released from the tubular member 500 containing the active agent-containing gel 124 may, when heated, enter a cavity 140 in the aerosol generating article 100 for transport through the internal longitudinal passage 430.

Although this is not shown in FIG. 5 and fig. 6, the aerosol generating article 100 includes at least one opening (e.g., openings 150 shown in FIG. 3) that extends through the wrapper 110 and is in communication with an outer longitudinal passage 440 formed between the outer surface of the fluid guide 400. environment and the inner surface of the wrapper 110. A seal is formed between the fluid guide 400 and the wrapper 110 at a location between the opening or openings 150 and the proximal end 101. This helps deflect fluid entering through the openings 150 along the outer longitudinal passages 440 into the tubular member 500 or in a distant direction. The third portion 435 of the inner longitudinal passage 430 is, among other things, designed to extend along the length of the fluid guide 400 and the outer longitudinal passage 440 to provide additional distance between the holes 150 (not shown in Fig. 5 and Fig. 6, which may located near the proximal end of the outer longitudinal passage 440) and a tubular member 500 containing the active agent-containing gel 124, so that leakage of the active agent-containing gel 124 through the openings 150 is unlikely.

When negative pressure is applied to the proximal end 101 of the aerosol generating article 100 shown in FIG. 5 and fig. 6, fluid enters the openings 150, flows through the outer longitudinal passage 440 into the cavity 140 to the tubular member 500 containing the gel 124 containing the active substance, where the fluid can entrain material from the gel when the tubular member 500 is heated. Fluid may then flow through the inner longitudinal passage 430 and through the proximal end 101. As the fluid flows through the inner longitudinal passage 430, the fluid flows through the third portion 435 and then the first portion 410 of the aerosol generating article 100. As fluid flows into the first portion 410 of the inner longitudinal passage 430, the inner longitudinal passage 430 may provide acceleration because the inner diameter of the inner longitudinal passage 430 of the first portion 410 is smaller than that of the third portion 435. In the aerosol generating article 100 illustrated in FIG. . 6, the fluid may accelerate as it passes through each segment 410A, 410B, 410C of the first portion 410.

In the embodiments depicted in FIGS. 4 and fig. 5, the wrapper defines a cavity 130 between the proximal end 401 of the fluid guide 400 and the proximal end 101 of the aerosol generating article 100, which can serve to retard fluid that exits the internal longitudinal passage 430 at the proximal end 401 of the fluid guide 400 before exit from the near end of 101.

In fig. 7-8 illustrate an embodiment of an aerosol generating article 100. The aerosol generating article 100 includes a wrapper 110 and holes 150 extending through the wrapper 110. The aerosol generating article includes an end plug 600 that defines a distal end 103 of the aerosol generating article 100. The end cap has high tightening resistance. A tubular member 500 containing a gel containing the active substance is disposed on the proximal side of the end plug 600 in the aerosol generating article 100. When heated, the tubular member 500 may generate an aerosol that enters a cavity 140 toward the proximal side of the tubular member 500.

In fig. 7 is a side view of a tubular aerosol generating article 100. If you look at the surface of either the proximal end 101 or the distal end 103, the end surface will be round. Fig. 7 is a two-dimensional image, and thus the bend of the aerosol generating tubular article cannot be seen. Fig. 8 is a partial cross-sectional perspective view of the same embodiment shown and described with reference to FIG. 7. It can be seen that the surface of the far end, although partially blocked, is circular. It can be seen that the surface of the proximal end 101, although partially cut, will also be round. Also in FIG. 8, it can be seen that the tubular element 500 has a tubular shape. Also in FIG. 8, it can be seen that the end cap 600 is also tubular in shape for this embodiment.

At least one of the openings 150 is in communication with at least one outer longitudinal passage 440 formed between the fluid guide 400 and the wrapper 110 and between the side walls 450. The fluid guide 400 has a rim 460 that is pressed against the inner surface wrappers 110 to form a seal. A seal is formed between the proximal end 101 and the holes 150.

When negative pressure is applied at the proximal end 101, a fluid, such as air, can enter the openings 150 and flow through the outer longitudinal passages 440 into the cavity 140 and then through the tubular member 500, where material from the gel 124 is released into the fluid. The fluid then moves through the inner longitudinal passage 430, through the fluid guide 400, into the cavity 130 defined by the wrapper 110, and through (and out of) the proximal end 101 of the aerosol generating article 100. The inner longitudinal passage 430 of the fluid guide 400 may be configured in any suitable manner, for example, as in the examples shown in FIGS. 3-6.

In fig. 9-10 illustrate an embodiment of an aerosol generating article 100 that includes a mouthpiece 170 that forms part of a wrapper 110 and a fluid guide 400 of the aerosol generating article 100. The aerosol generating article 100 includes a tubular member 500 that forms the distal end 103 of the aerosol generating article 100 and is also formed by a portion of the wrapper 110. The tubular member 500 is configured to receive the distal portion of the mouthpiece 170, such as by an interference fit. A tubular member containing a gel 124 containing an active agent (not shown) may be positioned at the distal end 103. The aerosol generating article 100 includes an end plug 600 at the extreme distal end 103. The end plug 600 has a high draw resistance.

In fig. 9 is a partial cross-sectional side view of a tubular aerosol generating article 100. If one looks at the entire surface of either the proximal end 101 or the distal end 103, the end surface will be circular. Fig. 9 is a two-dimensional image, and thus the bend of the aerosol generating tubular article cannot be seen. Fig. 10 is a partial cross-sectional perspective view of the same partial cross-sectional portion of the aerosol generating article 100 which is shown and described in FIG. 9. It can be seen that the surface of the far end, although partially blocked, is circular. It can be seen that the surface of the proximal end 101, although partially cut, will also be round. Also in FIG. 10, it can be seen that the tubular element 500 has a tubular shape. Also in FIG. 10, it can be seen that the end cap 600 is also tubular in shape for this embodiment.

The fluid guide 400 includes an internal longitudinal passage 430 (not shown) that contains a portion that accelerates the fluid and may include a portion that decelerates the fluid. A seal is formed between the wrapper 110 and the fluid guide 400 since the wrapper 110 and the fluid guide 400 are formed from one piece. An opening 150 is formed in the wrapper 110 and is in communication with an outer longitudinal passage 640 that is formed at least in part by the inner surface of the wrapper 110. A portion of the outer longitudinal passage 640 is generally formed between the inner surface of the wrapper 110 and the outer portion of the fluid guide 400. The outer longitudinal passage 640 extends less than the full distance around the article 100. In this embodiment, the outer longitudinal passage 640 extends around 50 percent of the circumferential distance of the aerosol generating article 100. The outer longitudinal passage 640 directs fluid, such as air, from the opening 150 to a tubular member 500 (not shown) proximate the distal end 103.

When negative pressure is applied at proximal end 101, fluid, such as ambient air, enters aerosol generating article 100 through opening 150. Fluid flows through outer longitudinal passage 640 to tubular member 500 containing active agent containing gel 124 housed at the distal end 103. The fluid then flows through the inner longitudinal passage 430 of the fluid guide 400, where the fluid is accelerated and optionally decelerated. A fluid, such as air, may then exit the proximal end 101 of the aerosol generating article 100.

Fig. 11 is an illustration of a fluid guide 400 formed from a material such as polyetheretherketone (PEEK) by computer numerical control (CNC) machining. The fluid guide 400 shown in FIG. 11 has a length of 25 millimeters, a proximal end outer diameter of 6.64 millimeters, and a distal end outer diameter of 6.29 millimeters. The outer diameter at the far end is the diameter of the far end from the base of the side walls. The fluid guide 400 has 12 outer longitudinal passages 640 formed around its outer surface, each side wall having a substantially semicircular cross-sectional area. The outer longitudinal passages 640 have a radius of 0.75 millimeters and a length of 20 millimeters. The fluid guide 400 has an internal longitudinal passage 430 (not shown) comprising three parts: a first part (fluid accelerating part), a second part (fluid decelerating part) located downstream or adjacent to the first part, and a third part located upstream or at a distance from the first part. The third portion of the inner longitudinal passage 430 of the fluid guide 400 extends from the distal end 103 of the aerosol generating article 100 and has an inner diameter at the distal end of 5.09 millimeters, which decreases to a diameter of 4.83 millimeters at the proximal end. the first part of the internal longitudinal passage is 430. The length of the first part of the internal longitudinal passage is 15 millimeters. The first portion of the inner longitudinal passage 430 extends from the proximal end of the third portion to the distal end of the second portion. The first portion of the inner longitudinal passage 430 has an internal diameter of 2 millimeters at its distal end, which tapers to 1 millimeter at its proximal end. The length of the first part of the internal longitudinal passage is 5.5 millimeters. A second portion of the inner longitudinal passage 430 extends from a proximal end of the first portion to a proximal end at the proximal end of the article. The second part of the inner longitudinal passage 430 has an inner diameter of 1 millimeter at its distal end, which is the same as the inner diameter at the proximal end of the first part. The inner diameter of the second part increases at a decreasing rate (along a curve) towards the proximal end, which has an inner diameter of 5 millimeters. The length of the second part is 4.5 millimeters. Accordingly, fluid drawn through the inner passage of the fluid guide from the distal end to the proximal end encounters a chamber with a substantially constant internal diameter (third portion), a narrowed section configured to accelerate the fluid (first portion), and an expanded section , configured to slow down the fluid (second part). It has been found that providing such an internal longitudinal passage 430 for the aerosol released from the heated tubular element 500 (not shown) can allow the aerosol volume and droplet size to be adjusted so that a satisfactory aerosol is released. Fig. 11 is a side view of the tubular-shaped fluid guide 400. Fig. 11 is a two-dimensional view, and therefore, the bend of the tubular shape of the fluid guide 400 in this embodiment cannot be seen. When looking at the end surface of the fluid guide 400 of this embodiment, the surface is circular.

Fig. 12 is an illustration of an assembled aerosol generating article 100. The aerosol generating article 100 includes a wrapper 110 into which the fluid guide 400 of FIG. 11. The wrapper shown in FIG. 12 is a generally cylindrical paper tube having a length of 45 millimeters. One end of the wrap 110 is distal to provide a distal end of the wrap for holding a tubular member 500 (not shown). The proximal portion of the outer portion of the fluid guide 400 above the outer longitudinal passages has a diameter of 6.64 millimeters. This diameter is substantially identical to the inside diameter of the wrap such that an interference fit seal can be formed between the proximal portion of the outer portion of the fluid guide 400 and the interior portion of the wrap 110. The distal portion of the outer portion of the fluid guide 400 extending along the length of the outer longitudinal passages may have a diameter that is slightly smaller than the diameter of the proximal portion of the outer portion of the fluid guide 400 so that the fluid guide can be easily inserted into the wrapper 110 up to the proximal portion of the outer portion where an interference fit occurs. Fig. 12 is a side view of an aerosol generating article 100. Fig. 12 is a two-dimensional image, and therefore, the curvature of the tubular shape of the aerosol generating article 100 cannot be seen in this embodiment. When looking at the end surface of the aerosol generating article 100 of this embodiment, the surface is circular.

In fig. 13 illustrates an aerosol generating article 100 manufactured with a tubular member 500 containing a gel 124, which is further illustrated in FIG. 14, 15 and 16. FIG. 13 is a longitudinal sectional view of an aerosol generating article 100. Fig. 13 is a two-dimensional view, and therefore, the bending of the tubular shape of the fluid guide 100 and its components, such as the tubular member 500, cannot be seen in this embodiment. If one looks at the entire end surface of the aerosol generating article 100 of this embodiment, the surface is circular. Likewise, if one looks at the entire end surface of the tubular member 500 of this embodiment, the surface is circular.

The aerosol generating article 100 of FIG. 13 contains four elements arranged in coaxial alignment: at the distal end 103, a high resistance to draw (RTD) end cap 600, a tubular element 500 that contains the gel 124, a fluid guide 400, and a mouthpiece 170 at the proximal end 101. These four elements arranged in series and surrounded by a wrapper 110 to form an aerosol generating article 100. (In a similar but alternative embodiment, there is a cavity 140 between the fluid guide 400 and the tubular member 500.) The aerosol generating article 100 has a proximal or mouthpiece end 101 and a distal end 103 located at the opposite end of the aerosol generating article 100, relative to the proximal end 101. Not all components of the tubular member 500 are necessarily shown or designated in FIG. 13.

In use, a fluid, such as air, is drawn through the aerosol generating article 100 through openings 150 (not shown, but similar to those described for the examples of FIGS. 1-10) when negative pressure is applied at the proximal end 101.

An end cap 600 is located at the extreme distal end 103 of the aerosol generating article 100.

In this example, tubular member 500 is immediately downstream of end plug 600 and adjacent to end plug 600.

In fig. 9, the distal end portion of the outer wrap 110 of the aerosol generating article 100 is surrounded by a strip of tipping paper (not shown).

As further illustrated in FIG. 14, 15 and 16, the tubular member 500 is a cellulose acetate tube 122 containing a gel 124 in a core, for example, the core is filled with a gel 124. In this example, the gel 124 contains an active agent, the active agent being nicotine and an aerosolizing agent. Other examples, similar to this example, include different active substances or none. Not all components of the tubular member 500 of FIG. 14, 15 and 16 are necessarily shown or designated.

In fig. 14 is a perspective view of the tubular member 500, FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view aligned with the central axis of the tubular member 500, and FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view perpendicular to the central axis. In fig. 16 shows the end surface of the tubular member 500.

The tubular element 500 is located in the aerosol generating article 100 at a distal end 103 (FIG. 13) of the aerosol generating article 100 such that the tubular element 500 can be penetrated by a heating element of the aerosol generating device 200, the heating element in this example penetrating an end plug 600 (at the extreme distal end 103 of the aerosol generating article 100) for contacting a tubular element 500 that contains the gel 124. Thus, the heating element is in contact with the gel 124 or is in close proximity to the gel 124.

Gel 124 contains an active agent that is released into a fluid, such as air, flowing from openings 150 along outer longitudinal passages (not shown) in fluid guide 400 to tubular member 500 near distal end 103 and then to proximal end 101 through the internal longitudinal passage 430 (not shown). In this illustrated example, the active substance is nicotine. Optionally, gel 124 further contains a flavoring agent, such as menthol.

The tubular member 500 may further comprise a plasticizer.

The fluid guide 400 is located immediately downstream of the tubular member 500 and is adjacent to the tubular member 500. (In a similar but alternative specific example, e.g., FIG. 24, there is a cavity between the fluid guide 400 and the tubular member 500 thus, the fluid guide does not contact the tubular element). In use, the material released from the tubular member 500 containing the gel 124 passes along the fluid guide 400 to the proximal end 101 of the aerosol generating article 100.

In the example of FIG. 13, the mouthpiece 170 is located immediately downstream of the fluid guide 400 and is adjacent to the fluid guide 400. In the example of FIG. 13, the mouthpiece 170 contains a traditional cellulose acetate filter with low filtration efficiency.

To assemble the aerosol generating article 100, the four elements described above are aligned and wrapped in an outer wrap 110. In FIG. 13 The outer wrapper is traditional cigarette paper.

The tubular member 500 may be formed by an extrusion process, for example, as illustrated in FIG. 17. The cellulose acetate 122 longitudinal sides of the tubular member 500 may be formed by extruding the cellulose acetate material along the die 184 and around the core 180, which projects rearward with respect to the direction T of movement of the extruded cellulose acetate material. The rearward protrusion of the core 180 is formed as a pin and is a cylindrical piece having an outer diameter of 3 to 7 millimeters with a length of 55 to 100 millimeters. (To facilitate explanation, this is not illustrated to scale in the figures).

The cellulose acetate material 122 in this example is thermoset by exposure to steam S, which is at a pressure greater than 1 bar.

The core 180 is provided with a channel 182 through which the gel 124 is extruded into the core of the cured cellulose acetate material 122, which forms the longitudinal sides of the tubular member 500 in this example. In other examples, the cellulose acetate material 122 is thermoset before extruding the gel 124 into the core of the cellulose acetate material 122.

The composite cylindrical rod is cut into lengths to form individual tubular elements 500.

The composite cylindrical rod is formed using the hot extrusion process in this example. The composite cylindrical rod is allowed to cool or is subjected to a cooling process before being converted into lengths. Alternatively, in other examples, the composite cylindrical rod may be formed using a cold extrusion process.

In the illustrated tubular members 500 of this example, cellulose acetate 122 is shown as the longitudinal sides of the cored tubular member 500, the core being filled with gel 124. However, alternatively, in other examples, the cellulose acetate longitudinal sides 122 may be of any shape with a core (or more than one core) ) to accommodate the gel 124, which extends generally along the tubular rod. In alternative specific examples, the core is filled with a gel-filled porous media 125.

In the present example, the cellulose acetate 122 longitudinal side portions of the tubular element have a minimum thickness of 0.6 millimeters.

In the manufacturing process illustrated in FIG. 17, the gel 124 is extruded continuously.

In an alternative example, as illustrated in FIG. 18, gel 124 may be extruded in portions separated by gaps 128, as shown in FIG. 18. In alternative specific examples, the gel-filled porous media 125 is extruded in portions to provide separation gaps in the core of the tubular rod.

The gel 124 may be heated to a temperature that is above room temperature before being introduced into the core 180. The core 180 may be thermally conductive (eg, a metal core), and some externally applied heat (eg, from steam S) is applied to heat cure the cellulose acetate. This can transfer thermal energy to the gel, and heating the gel can reduce its viscosity and make it easier to squeeze out.

In an alternative specific example, as illustrated in FIG. 19, the core 180 is configured to reduce the heating of the gel 124 before extrusion. In some of these specific examples, the core 180 is formed from a substantially thermally insulating material. Alternatively or additionally, the core 180 is cooled, for example, by having a liquid-cooled shell 186 (e.g., a water-cooled shell) having a cooled-liquid circulation layer forming a thermal barrier between externally applied heat (eg, steam S) and the gel 124. Maintaining the Gel 124 at low temperature may facilitate the formation of a gel 124 within the cellulose acetate 122 longitudinal side portions of the tubular member 500.

In this example, the tubular members 500 are formed by cutting at the gaps 128 of the composite rod, which helps prevent contamination of the cutting machinery by the gel 124, thereby improving cutting efficiency. The composite rod in this example is cooled before cutting during a rest period until it reaches a suitable temperature for cutting. Once cut, the cut lengths have hollow ends when cut at gaps 128, which in some examples are trimmed to form a tubular member, and before being assembled into the aerosol generating article 100. The portions of gel 124 in this example are 60 millimeters in length and are separated by gaps of 10 millimeters. In other examples, the hollow ends are not trimmed at both ends to create a cavity 140 between the gel 124 and the fluid guide 400.

Alternatively to the examples illustrated herein, in specific examples, the gel 124 can be extruded at room temperature. Also in alternative specific examples, cellulose acetate is replaced by other materials, such as polylactic acid.

In the embodiment of FIG. 19, the core has a cylindrical shape to facilitate the production of a tubular member of a tubular shape.

In fig. 20 illustrates a portion of the aerosol generating device 200 with the aerosol generating article 100 partially inserted as described above and illustrated in FIG. 13.

The aerosol generating device 200 includes a heating element 230. As shown in FIG. 20, a heating element 230 is installed inside the chamber housing the aerosol generating article 100 of the aerosol generating device 200. In use, the aerosol generating article 100 is inserted into the aerosol generating article housing chamber of the aerosol generating device 200, whereby the heating element 230 is inserted through the end plug 600 into the tubular member 500 of the aerosol generating article 100, as shown in FIG. 20. In FIG. 20, the heating element 230 of the aerosol generating device 200 is a heater plate.

The aerosol generating device 200 includes a power supply and electronics that enable activation of the heating element 230. Such activation may be performed manually or may occur automatically in response to the application of negative pressure at the proximal end of the aerosol generating article 100 inserted into a chamber containing aerosol generating article, aerosol generating device 200. A plurality of openings are provided in the aerosol generating device to allow air to flow into the aerosol generating article 100; the direction of fluid, such as air, flowing into the aerosol generating device 200 is illustrated by arrows in FIG. 20. The fluid may then enter the aerosol generating article 100 through openings 150 (not shown).

After the internal heating element 230 is inserted into the tubular element 500 of the aerosol generating device 100 and activated, the tubular element 500 containing the active substance containing gel 124 is heated to a temperature of 375 degrees Celsius by the heating element 230 of the aerosol generating device 200. At this temperature, the material from the tubular member 500 of the aerosol generating article 100 leaves the gel. When negative pressure is applied to the proximal end 101 of the aerosol generating article 100, this material from the tubular member 500 is drawn further downstream through the aerosol generating article 100, particularly drawn through the fluid guide 400 to the proximal end and outward from the proximal end. 101 aerosol generating product 100.

The aerosol passes further downstream through the aerosol generating article 100, wherein the temperature of the aerosol is reduced due to the transfer of thermal energy from the aerosol to the fluid guide 400. In this example, when the aerosol enters the fluid guide 400, the temperature of the aerosol is approximately 150 degrees Celsius. Due to the cooling within the fluid guide 400, the temperature of the aerosol exiting the fluid guide 400 is 40 degrees Celsius. This results in the formation of aerosol droplets.

In the illustrated example of FIG. 20, the tubular member 500 contains cellulose acetate forming the longitudinal side portions 122 of the cylindrical rod, with a gel 124 in the core or central portion of the tubular member 500. Alternatively, in other specific examples, the longitudinal side portions of the tubular member 500 may be cardboard; corrugated paper such as corrugated heat-resistant paper or corrugated parchment paper; or a polymeric material such as low density polyethylene (LDPE).

In fig. 14, 15, 16, the tubular member 500 has a single core containing one gel 124, wherein the gel 124 filling the core is surrounded by cellulose acetate along the longitudinal sides of the tubular member 500. However, in alternative specific examples, the tubular member 500 contains more than one core. In certain embodiments, the tubular member includes more than one gel 124. Not all components of the tubular member 500 of FIG. 14, 15 and 16 are necessarily shown or designated.

As illustrated in the example of FIG. 21, tubular member 500 contains a plurality of gels 524A, 524B extending along the axial length of the core of tubular member 500, as shown in cross section in FIG. 21. The tubular member 500 in this embodiment of FIG. 21 includes cellulose acetate longitudinal side portions 522, 622, 722. Not all components of the tubular member 500 are necessarily shown or designated in the embodiment of FIG. 21.

Multiple gels 524A, 524B may be extruded into the cellulose acetate 522 through separate channels in a core (not shown) forming the core of the tubular member 500. The use of gels 124 with different degrees of volatility may make it easier to optimize delivery of the active ingredient.

In the example illustrated in FIG. 22, the tubular member 500 includes cellulose acetate longitudinal side portions 622, the tubular member 500 further comprising a plurality of cores 624A, 624B, 624C, as shown in cross section in FIG. 22.

Not all components of the tubular member 500 are necessarily shown or designated in this embodiment of FIG. 22.

In this particular example, multiple cores contain different gels 624A, 624B, 624C, the gels having different actives, such as different nicotine and flavor, as shown in FIG. 22. The use of gels with different degrees of volatility can facilitate optimization of the delivery of the active ingredient, in particular delivery during the heating cycle of the aerosol generating device.

In other specific examples (not shown), each of the multiple cores 624A, 624B, 624C contains the same gel 124 (not shown). The use of multiple cores makes it easier to optimize the efficiency of air flow through the tubular element 500.

Multiple cores can be formed by using a core (not shown) with corresponding multiple projections extending rearward relative to the direction T of movement of the extruded cellulose acetate material. The gel can be extruded through respective channels in the plurality of rearwardly extending protrusions of the core.

In fig. 14, 15, 16, the tubular element 500 contains cellulose acetate 122 longitudinal side parts filled with a gel 124 in the core. However, alternatively, in specific examples, in combination with other features, the core of the tubular member 500 is only partially filled with gel 124 across a cross section perpendicular to the axial length. Advantageously, this simplifies the axial flow of air along the length of the tubular member 500. For example, as shown in FIG. 23, gel 724 may be provided as a coating on the inner surface of the longitudinal side portions of the tubular member 500. Not all components of the tubular member 500 are necessarily shown or designated in the embodiment of FIG. 23.

In this illustrated example, the embodiment of FIG. 23, the tubular member 500 has a hollow channel 726 extending axially along its length due to the use of a core (not shown) with a central rod extending further downstream from where the gel 724 is extruded into the tube during manufacture to form hollow channel inside the extruded gel 724.

Although in FIG. 20 illustrates an aerosol generating article 100 that is used with a plate heating element 230 of an aerosol generating device 200, the tubular element 500 may alternatively be used in other aerosol generating articles 100 that are heated differently.

For example, in FIG. 24 illustrates a sectional view of an example of an aerosol generating article 100 that is suitable for induction heating as well as plate heating element heating. In fig. 24 illustrates an example of an aerosol generating article 100 according to the present invention suitable for use with a tubular member according to the present invention. Fig. 24 is a cross-sectional view of the tubular aerosol generating article and its components, such as the tubular member 500, and thus does not show the bending of the tubular shapes. Not all components of tubular member 500 are necessarily shown or labeled in this FIG. 24.

In fig. 24, an example of an aerosol generating article 100 includes a mouthpiece 170 at the proximal end 101, a fluid guide 400, a cavity 700, a tubular member 500, and an end plug 600 in order from proximal end to distal end. In this example, the tubular member 500 contains a gel 824 containing the active substance and further contains a current collector (both not shown). The current collector in this example is a single strip of aluminum that is centered along the longitudinal axis of the tubular member 500. When the distal end 103 of the aerosol generating article 100 is inserted into the aerosol generating device 200 (not shown), a portion of the aerosol generating article 100 is comprising a tubular member 500 is positioned to be adjacent to the induction heating elements 230 (not shown) of the aerosol generating device 200 (not shown). Electromagnetic radiation generated by induction heating elements 230 is absorbed by the current collector and promotes heating of the gel 824 in the tubular element 500, which in turn promotes the release of material from the gel 824, for example, the active substance entrained in the passing aerosol when negative pressure is applied at the proximal end 101 aerosol generating product 100. Fluid, such as air, enters the outer longitudinal passages 834 through openings 150 (not shown) to be transferred into the cavity 700 and then into the tubular member 500, where the fluid mixes with the gel 824 and captures the active substances before returning to the cavity, and then through the internal longitudinal passage (not shown) of the fluid guide 400 before exiting at the proximal end 101. In this example, the longitudinal side portions 822 of the tubular member 500 contain paper. The aerosol generating article includes an outer wrap 850. This aerosol generating article 100 is illustrated in FIG. 24 and as described can be used with an aerosol generating device 200 as illustrated in FIG. 1-2 and as described. Preferably, the aerosol generating article 100 of FIG. 16 is heated by induction from the aerosol generating device 200.

The tubular member 500 may have numerous different combinations of, but are not limited to: gel 124, gel-filled porous media 125, active agent, internal longitudinal members, void space filled with material (preferably porous), and wrapper. The desired aerosol can be created by a specific combination and arrangement of its ingredients.

For example, as shown below.

In fig. 25 illustrates an example in which the tubular member 500 includes: a wrapper 110; a second tubular member 115, the second tubular member 115 comprising a gel 124, the second tubular member 115 comprising a paper wrapper, the second tubular member being centered along the longitudinal axis of the tubular member 500; a porous filler material 132 located between the second tubular member 115 and the wrapper 110. The porous filler material 132 helps keep the second tubular member centered within the tubular member 500. The gel 124 in this example is located within the central portion of the second tubular member 115.

In fig. 26 illustrates an example in which the tubular member 500 includes: a wrapper 110; a second tubular member 115 containing gel 124, the second tubular member comprising a paper wrapper, the second tubular member being centered along the longitudinal axis of the tubular member 500; gel 124 located between the second tubular element 115 and the wrapper 110. The gel located between the second tubular element 115 and the wrapper 110 helps to keep the second tubular element 115 centered within the tubular element 500. Gel 124 in this example is located within the central portion of the second tubular element 115, as well as between the second tubular member 115 and the wrapper 110.

In fig. 27 illustrates an example in which the tubular member 500 includes: a wrapper 110; an inner longitudinal member containing a gel-filled porous medium 125, the inner longitudinal member containing a gel-filled porous media 125 being centered along the longitudinal axis of the tubular member 500; gel 124 disposed between the inner longitudinal member containing the gel-filled porous medium 125 and the wrapper 110. The gel 124 may assist in keeping the inner longitudinal member containing the gel-filled porous media 125 centered within the tubular member 500. In this example the inner longitudinal member is cross-shaped in its longitudinal section, and portions of the inner longitudinal member contact the inner surface of the wrapper 110. Other examples may use inner longitudinal members of other shapes and sizes and thus may not necessarily contact the inner surface of the wrapper 110. Others specific examples may also use internal longitudinal members of different materials.

In fig. 28 illustrates an example in which the tubular member 500 includes: a wrapper 110; a second tubular member 115 containing gel 124, the second tubular member 115 comprising a paper wrapper, the second tubular member being centered along the longitudinal axis of the tubular member 500; a porous gel-filled medium 125 located between the second tubular member 115 and the wrapper 110. In this example, the porous gel-filled media 125 helps keep the second tubular member 115 centered within the tubular member 500.

In fig. 29 illustrates an example in which the tubular member 500 includes: a wrapper 110; a porous medium 125 filled with gel; and gel 124; wherein a gel-filled porous media 125 is adjacent to the inner surface of the wrapper 110 and surrounds the gel 124. In this example, both gel 124 and a gel-filled porous media 125 are present. A gel-filled porous media 125 covers the interior surface of the wrap, although the gel-filled porous media 125 may first be shaped and then wrapped around the wrap 110. In this example, the gel-filled porous media 125 surrounds the gel 124, which is supported centered along the longitudinal axis of the tubular member 500. The gel-filled porous medium 125 may assist in holding the gel 124 along the central position.

In fig. 30 illustrates an example in which the tubular member 500 includes: a wrapper 110; a second tubular member 115 containing a porous medium 125 filled with a gel, the second tubular member 115 comprising a paper wrapper, the second tubular member 115 being centered along the longitudinal axis of the tubular member 500; a porous filler material 132 located between the second tubular member 115 and the wrapper 110. The porous filler material 132 helps to keep the second tubular member centered within the tubular member 500. The gel-filled porous media 125 in this example is located within the central portion of the second tubular member 115. In this example, a paper wrapper of the second tubular member 115 surrounds a porous media 125 filled with gel.

In fig. 31 illustrates an example in which the tubular member 500 includes: a wrapper 110; a second tubular member 115 comprising a gel-filled porous medium 125, the second tubular member 115 being centered along the longitudinal axis of the tubular member 500, the second tubular member further comprising a paper wrapper; a gel-filled porous medium 125 located between the second tubular member 115 and the wrapper 110. In this example, the gel-filled porous media 125 is located in two locations: within the second tubular member 115 and between the second tubular member and the wrapper 110. They may have the same or different porous media, gel or active substance.

In fig. 32 illustrates an example in which the tubular member 500 includes: a wrapper 110; a second tubular member 115 comprising a porous filler material 132, the second tubular member 115 being centered along the longitudinal axis of the tubular member 500, the second tubular member 115 further comprising a paper wrapper; a gel-filled porous media 125 located between the second tubular member 115 and the wrapper 110. The gel-filled porous media may assist in holding the second tubular member 115 centered along the longitudinal axis of the tubular member 500. In this example, the gel-filled porous media 125 , is adjacent to the inner surface of the wrapper 110. A gel-filled porous medium 125 covers the inner surface of the wrapper 110.

In fig. 33 illustrates an example in which the tubular member 500 includes: a wrapper 110; a second tubular member 115 comprising a gel-filled porous medium 125, the second tubular member 115 being centered along the longitudinal axis of the tubular member 500, the second tubular member 115 further comprising a paper wrapper; gel 124 located between the second tubular element 115 and the wrapper 110. In this example, the gel 124 may assist in holding the second tubular element 115 centered along the longitudinal axis of the tubular element 500. In this example, the gel 124 is adjacent to the inner surface of the wrapper 110. In this example, the gel-filled porous media 125 is centered within the second tubular member 115 surrounded by a paper wrapper of the second tubular members 115.

In fig. 34 illustrates an example in which the tubular member 500 includes: a wrapper 110; an inner longitudinal member containing a gel-filled porous medium 125, wherein the inner longitudinal member containing a gel-filled porous media 125 is cylindrical and is centered along the longitudinal axis of the tubular member 500; gel 124 located between the inner longitudinal member containing the gel-filled porous medium 125 and the wrapper 110. The gel 124 may assist in keeping the inner longitudinal member containing the gel-filled porous media 124 centered within the tubular member 500. In this example the inner longitudinal member is cylindrical in shape in its longitudinal section and is held away from the inner surface of the wrapper 110 by gel 124. Other examples may use inner longitudinal members of other shapes and sizes and from other materials.

In fig. 35 illustrates a manufacturing process of a tubular member 500 according to the present invention. The first supply means supplies the first web 110 of wrapping material. The dry porous media 127 is distributed onto the first wrap material web 110 conveyed by the assembly 305. Preferably, the second feed means simultaneously delivers the second wrap material web 115 to the assembly 303. In this example, the nozzle 301 is a cylindrical nozzle. The nozzle 301 distributes the gel 124 onto the second web 115 of wrapping material. The second wrapping material 115 with gel 124 is rolled to form a second tubular member. The second tubular element is transported using the second fitting 303 so that it is located on the dry porous medium 127 on the web of wrapping material. The first web of wrapping material 110 is then rolled to form a tubular member of continuous length that can be cut into desired lengths, resulting in a plurality of individual tubular members 500. The manufacturing process of this example produces a tubular member containing a second tubular member containing a gel, and wherein there is a dry porous medium between the second tubular element and the wrapper of the tubular element, as shown in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 25.

In fig. 36 shows one step of the process illustrated in FIG. 35. The gel distribution nozzle 301 124 is cylindrical to assist in distributing the gel 124 across the second wrapping material web 115, which will form a second tubular element that is preferably cylindrical in shape. The folded second wrapping material web 115 is positioned on a dry porous medium 127 that is positioned on the first wrapping material web 110 .

In fig. 37 illustrates a manufacturing process of a tubular member according to the present invention. The first supply means supplies the first web 110 of wrapping material. The nozzle 307 distributes the gel 124 onto the first wrap material web 110 carried by the assembly 305. The nozzle 307 is a nozzle with a strip opening that distributes multiple rows of gel 124 over the surface of the wrap material web 110 in this example. The advantage of the strip orifice nozzle 307 is that it allows the gel 124 to be evenly distributed over a large area or space. This is also illustrated in FIG. 39. Preferably, simultaneously, the second supply means supplies the second web 115 of wrapping material to the fitting 303. The nozzle 301 is a cylindrical nozzle. The nozzle 301 distributes the gel 124 onto the second web 115 of wrapping material. The second wrapping material 115 with gel 124 is rolled to form a second tubular member. The second tubular element is transported by the second fitting 303 so that it is positioned on the gel 124 on the wrapping material web 110. The wrapping material web 110 is then rolled to form a continuous length tubular element that can be cut into desired lengths.

In fig. 38 shows one step of the process illustrated in FIG. 37. The gel distribution nozzle 301 124 is cylindrical to assist in distributing the gel 124 across the second wrapping material web 115, which will form a second tubular element that is preferably cylindrical in shape. The folded second wrapping material web 115 is positioned on the gel 124, which is located on the wrapping material web 110. An exemplary tubular member 500 that is manufactured and is illustrated in FIG. 37, 38 and 39 is a tubular member 500 including a second tubular member 304 that contains a gel, and wherein the tubular member 500 further comprises a gel 124 disposed between the second tubular member and the wrapper 110 of the tubular member 500, as also illustrated in view B cross section in Fig. 26.

In fig. 40 illustrates a manufacturing process of a tubular member 500 according to the present invention. The first supply means supplies the wrapping material web 110. The dry porous medium 127 is placed on the wrapping material web 110. The nozzle 307 distributes the gel 124 onto a dry porous medium 127 located on a wrapping material web 110 that is transported over the assembly 305. The dry porous medium 127 is filled with gel 124 to become a gel-filled porous medium 125. The nozzle 307 is a strip-shaped orifice nozzle that dispenses multiple rows of gel 124 over the surface of the dry porous medium 127 on the wrapping material web 110 in this example. The advantage of the strip orifice nozzle 307 is that it allows the gel 124 to be evenly distributed over a large area or space. This is also illustrated in FIG. 42. Preferably, simultaneously, the second supply means supplies the second web 115 of wrapping material to the fitting 303. The nozzle 301 is a cylindrical nozzle. The nozzle 301 distributes the gel 124 onto the second web 115 of wrapping material. The second wrapping material 115 with gel 124 is rolled to form a second tubular member. The second tubular element is transported using the second fitting 303 so that it is located on the porous gel-filled medium 125 on the wrapping material web 110. The first web of wrapping material 110 is then rolled to form a continuous length tubular element that can be cut into desired lengths to form a plurality of tubular elements 500.

In fig. 41 shows one step of the process illustrated in FIG. 40. The gel distribution nozzle 301 124 is cylindrical to assist in distributing the gel 124 across the second wrapping material web 115, which will form a second tubular element that is preferably cylindrical in shape. The folded second wrapping material web 115 is positioned on a gel-filled porous medium 125 that is positioned on the wrapping material web 110.

An exemplary tubular member 500 that is manufactured and is illustrated in FIG. 40, 41 and 42, is a tubular member 500 comprising a second tubular member 304 that contains a gel 124, and wherein the tubular member 500 further comprises a porous gel-filled medium 125 disposed between the second tubular member 304 and a wrapper 110 of the tubular member 500. As also illustrated in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 28.

In fig. 43 illustrates a manufacturing process of a tubular member 500 according to the present invention. The first supply means supplies the first web 110 of wrapping material. The dry porous media 127 is distributed onto the first wrapping material web 110, which is transported through the assembly 303. The strip-shaped nozzle 307 distributes the gel 124 onto the surface of the dry porous media 127, and the gel 124 fills the dry porous media 127 to become the porous media 125, filled with gel. The nozzle 301 is a cylindrical nozzle. The nozzle 301 distributes the gel onto a porous gel-filled medium 125 that is located on the wrapping material (as also illustrated in FIG. 44). The wrapping material web 110 is then rolled to form a continuous length tubular element that can be cut into desired lengths. In this example, tubular members 500 are produced that have a gel 124 in the central core of the tubular member 500 with a gel-filled porous media 125 in the circumferential portion under the wrapper 110. In this example, the second tubular member 304 is missing. A cross-sectional view of the tubular member 500. manufactured as illustrated in FIG. 43 and 44 is illustrated in FIG. 29.

In fig. 45 illustrates a manufacturing process of a tubular member 500 according to the present invention. The first supply means supplies the first web 110 of wrapping material. The dry porous medium 127 is placed on the first web 110 of wrapping material. The dry porous material 127 disposed on the first wrap material web 110 is transported over the assembly 305. Preferably, simultaneously, the second feed means delivers the second wrap material web 115 to the assembly 303. The dry porous media 127 is disposed on the second wrap material web 115. The nozzle 307 is a strip-shaped orifice nozzle. The nozzle 307 distributes the gel 124 onto a dry porous medium 127 located on the second web 115 of wrapping material. Dry porous media 127 is filled with gel 124 to become gel-filled porous media 125. This is also illustrated in FIG. 46. The second wrapping material web 115 is wrapped around the gel-filled porous medium 125 to form a second tubular member 304. The second tubular member 304 is transported by the second fitting 303 so that it is positioned on the dry porous media 127 on the wrapping material web 110. This is also illustrated in FIG. 47. The first web of wrapping material 110 is then rolled to form a continuous length tubular element that can be cut into desired lengths to produce a plurality of tubular elements 500.

An exemplary tubular member 500 that is manufactured and is illustrated in FIG. 45, 46 and 47 is a tubular member 500 comprising a second tubular member 304 that contains a gel-filled porous media 125, and wherein the tubular member 500 further comprises a dry porous media 127 disposed between the second tubular member 304 and the tubular member wrapper 110 500. As also illustrated in the cross-sectional view of FIG. thirty.

In fig. 48 illustrates a manufacturing process of a tubular member 500 according to the present invention. The first supply means supplies the first web 110 of wrapping material. The dry porous medium 127 is placed on the first web 110 of wrapping material. A strip-shaped nozzle 307 distributes gel 124 onto a dry porous medium 127. The dry porous medium 127 is filled with gel 124 to become a gel-filled porous medium 125. The gel-filled porous media 125 located on the first wrap material web 110 is transported through the assembly 305. Preferably, simultaneously, the second feed means delivers the second wrap material web 115 to the assembly 303. The dry porous media 127 is disposed on the second wrap material web 115. Another nozzle 307 with a strip opening distributes the gel 124 onto a dry porous medium 127 located on the second wrapping material web 115. Dry porous media 127 is filled with gel 124 to become gel-filled porous media 125. The second wrapping material web 115 with the gel-filled porous media 125 is rolled to form a second tubular member 304. The second tubular member is transported by the second fitting 303 so that it is positioned on the gel-filled porous media 125 on the wrapping material web 110. This is also illustrated in FIG. 49. The wrapping material web 110 is then rolled to form a continuous length tubular member that can be cut into desired lengths.

An exemplary tubular member 500 that is manufactured and is illustrated in FIG. 48 and 49 is a tubular member 500 comprising a second tubular member 304 that contains a gel-filled porous media 125, and wherein the tubular member 500 further comprises a gel-filled porous media 125 disposed between the second tubular member 304 and the tubular member wrapper 110 500. As also illustrated in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 31.

In fig. 50 illustrates a manufacturing process of a tubular member 500 according to the present invention. The first supply means supplies the first web 110 of wrapping material. The dry porous medium 127 is placed on the wrapping material web 110. A strip-shaped nozzle 307 distributes gel 124 onto a dry porous medium 127. The dry porous medium 127 is filled with gel 124 to become a gel-filled porous medium 125. As also illustrated in FIG. 52. The gel-filled porous media 125 located on the first wrap material web 110 is transported through the assembly 305. Preferably, at the same time, a second feed means delivers the second wrap material web 115 to the assembly 303. Nothing is added or distributed to this second wrap material web 115 according to it in this example. The second web of wrapping material 115 is rolled to form a second tubular member 304 of continuous length. The second continuous length tubular member 304 is transported by the second fitting 303 so that it is positioned on the gel-filled porous media 125 on the first wrapping material web 110. This is also illustrated in FIG. 51. The first web of wrapping material 110 is then rolled to form a tubular member of continuous length that can be cut into desired lengths.

An exemplary tubular member 500 that is manufactured and is illustrated in FIG. 50, 51 and 52 is a tubular member 500 including a second tubular member 304 that is hollow, and wherein the tubular member 500 further comprises a porous gel-filled medium 125 located between the second tubular member 304 and the wrapper 110 of the tubular member 500.

In fig. 53 illustrates a manufacturing process of a tubular member 500 according to the present invention. The first supply means supplies the first web 110 of wrapping material. A strip-shaped nozzle 307 distributes the gel 124 onto the first wrapping material 110. This is also illustrated in FIG. 55. The gel 124 located on the first wrap material web 110 is transported through the assembly 305. Preferably, simultaneously, the second feed means delivers the second wrap material web 115 to the assembly 303. The dry porous media 127 is disposed on the second wrap material web 115. Another nozzle 307 with a strip opening distributes the gel 124 onto a dry porous medium 127 located on the second wrapping material web 115. Dry porous media 127 is filled with gel 124 to become gel-filled media 125. A second wrapping material web 115 with a gel-filled porous media 125 is rolled to form a second tubular member 304. The second tubular member is transported by a second fitting 303 so that it rests on the gel 124 on the wrapping material web 110. This is also illustrated in FIG. 54. The first web of wrapping material 110 is then rolled to form a tubular member of continuous length that can be cut into desired lengths.

An exemplary tubular member 500 that is manufactured and is illustrated in FIG. 53, 54 and 55 is a tubular member 500 comprising a second tubular member 304 that contains a porous media 125 filled with a gel, and wherein the tubular member 500 further comprises a gel 124 disposed between the second tubular member 304 and a wrapper 110 of the tubular member 500. As also illustrated in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 33.

In fig. 56 illustrates a manufacturing process of a tubular member 500 according to the present invention. The first supply means supplies the first web 110 of wrapping material. The nozzle 307 distributes the gel 124 onto the wrapping material web 110. The nozzle 307 is a strip-shaped orifice nozzle. The gel 124 located on the first wrapping material 110 is transported through the assembly 303. In this example, at the same time, a second delivery means (not shown) delivers a second dry porous media 127 and another nozzle 307 with a strip opening (not shown) distributes the gel 124 over dry porous media 127. Dry porous media 127 is filled with gel 124 to become gel-filled porous media 125. The gel-filled porous media 125 can be stored until needed for fabrication of the tubular member. When the gel-filled porous media 125 is required to manufacture the tubular member 500, the gel-filled porous media 125 is positioned on the gel 124 on the first wrapping material web 110. This is illustrated in FIG. 57. The first web of wrapping material 110 is then rolled to form a tubular member of continuous length that can be cut into desired lengths.

An exemplary tubular member 500 that is manufactured and is illustrated in FIG. 56 and 57 is a tubular member 500 comprising a central cross-sectional view of a gel-filled porous medium 125 and an outer cross-sectional portion of a tubular member 500 that contains a gel 124. As also illustrated in the cross-sectional view in fig. 34.

All scientific and technical terms used herein have the meanings commonly used in the art unless otherwise noted. The definitions provided in this document are intended to facilitate the understanding of certain terms frequently used in this document.

As used in this specification and the accompanying claims, the singular forms include embodiments with references to the plural unless the content clearly indicates otherwise.

In the context of this specification and the accompanying claims, the term “or” is generally used in its meaning to include “and/or” unless the content clearly states otherwise.

As used herein, the words “have,” “having,” “include,” “including,” “contain,” “comprising,” or the like are used in their broadest sense and generally mean “including but not limited to.” It will be understood that the expressions “consisting essentially of”, “consisting of”, etc. fall within the category of “comprising”, etc.

The words “preferred” and “preferably” refer to embodiments of the present invention that may provide certain advantages under certain circumstances. However, other embodiments may also be preferred under the same or different circumstances. Moreover, the description of one or more preferred embodiments is not intended to imply that other embodiments are not useful and is not intended to exclude other embodiments from the scope of the present invention, including the claims.

Any direction mentioned herein, such as "up", "down", "left", "right", "top", "bottom", and other directions or orientations are described herein for clarity and brevity and are not intended to to limit the actual device or system. The devices and systems described herein may be used in a variety of directions and orientations.

The exemplified embodiments above are not limiting. Other embodiments consistent with the above-described embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

Claims (51)

1. A tubular member manufacturing system for use with an aerosol generating product, for producing tubular members containing a gel, wherein the tubular member manufacturing system comprises: first continuous feeding means configured to continuously supply the first web of wrapping material along the feeding path; a nozzle configured to distribute the gel directly onto the first web of wrapping material, the gel containing water; second continuous supply means for supplying the second component to the first web of wrapping material; rolling means configured to roll the first web of wrapping material around the gel and the second component to form a tubular member of continuous length. 2. The system for manufacturing tubular elements according to claim 1, wherein the second component is a porous medium. 3. System for manufacturing tubular elements according to claims. 1, 2, in which the nozzle is configured to distribute the gel over the second component on the first web of wrapping material. 4. The tubular member manufacturing system of claim 1, wherein the second component is a second web of wrapping material, and wherein the second continuous supply means further comprises rolling means for rolling the second web of wrapping material to form a second tubular member. 5. The tubular member manufacturing system of claim 3, comprising a third feed means for supplying the third component. 6. The tubular member manufacturing system of claim 5, wherein the third feed means supplies the third component to the first web of wrapping material. 7. The tubular member manufacturing system of claim 5 or 6, wherein the third feed means supplies the third component to the second web of wrapping material. 8. The system for manufacturing tubular elements according to claim 5, 6 or 7, wherein the third component is a porous medium. 9. System for manufacturing tubular elements according to any one of paragraphs. 4-7 or 8, wherein the gel dispensing nozzle is configured to distribute the gel directly onto the second web of wrapping material or distributing it to an additional component on the second web of wrapping material. 10. The tubular member manufacturing system of any one of the preceding claims, further comprising cutting means configured to cut a continuous length of tubular member into a plurality of individual tubular members. 11. A method of manufacturing a tubular element for use with an aerosol generating product containing a gel, wherein the manufacturing method includes the steps of: supplying the first web of wrapping material to the feeding means; distributing the gel over the first web of wrapping material, the gel containing water; distributing the porous medium over the first web of wrapping material such that the porous medium is filled with gel before rolling the first wrapping material to form tubular elements of continuous length. rolling up the first wrapping material for wrapping the gel and forming a tubular element of continuous length. 12. The method of manufacturing a tubular element according to claim 11, including the step of: the gel is distributed onto the porous medium on the first sheet of wrapping material. 13. The method of manufacturing a tubular element according to claim 11 or 12, further comprising the step of: - the second web of wrapping material is supplied to the second supply means; And - rolling up the second web of wrapping material to form a second tubular element; And - feeding the second tubular element of the rolled second web of wrapping material onto the first web of wrapping material before rolling up the first wrapping material. 14. The method of manufacturing a tubular element according to claim 13, including the step of: distributing the gel over the second web of wrapping material before rolling the second web of wrapping material to form a second tubular element and feeding the rolled second web of wrapping material onto the first web of wrapping material. 15. The method of manufacturing a tubular element according to claim 13 or 14, further comprising the step of: distributing the porous medium over the second web of wrapping material before rolling up the second web of wrapping material to form a second tubular element and feeding the rolled second web of wrapping material onto the first web of wrapping material. 16. The method of manufacturing a tubular element according to claim 11 or 12, further comprising the step of: distributing the preformed second tubular element longitudinally over the first web of wrapping material before rolling up the first web of wrapping material. 17. A method of manufacturing a tubular element for use with an aerosol generating product, including the stages in which: supplying the first web of wrapping material to the feeding means; distributing the porous medium over the first web of wrapping material; supplying the second web of wrapping material to the second supply path; And distributing the gel over the second web of wrapping material, the gel containing water; And wrapping the gel with a second sheet of wrapping material to form a tubular shape; And feeding a second tubular element of the rolled gel and the second web of wrapping material onto the first web of wrapping material before rolling up the first wrapping material; rolling up the first wrapping material to wrap the second tubular element from the rolled gel and the second web of wrapping material and forming a tubular element of continuous length. 18. The method of manufacturing a tubular element according to claim 17, further comprising the step of: distributing the porous medium over the second web of wrapping material before rolling the second web of wrapping material to form a tubular shape. 19. A method of manufacturing a tubular element for use with an aerosol generating product, including the stages in which: supplying the first web of wrapping material to the feeding means; distributing the porous medium over the first web of wrapping material; distributing a preformed second tubular element containing the gel longitudinally across the first web of wrapping material before rolling up the first web of wrapping material, the gel containing water; applying a preformed second tubular element containing the gel onto the first web of wrapping material before rolling up the first wrapping material; rolling up the first wrapping material for wrapping the porous medium and the preformed second tubular element to form a tubular element of continuous length. 20. Manufacturing method according to any one of paragraphs. 11-19, further comprising the step of: cutting the continuous length tubular element into lengths to form a plurality of tubular elements.

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