RU2805320C2 - Tubular element with threads for use with aerosol generating product - Google Patents

Abstract

FIELD: aerosol-generating devices.

SUBSTANCE: tubular element for use with an aerosol generating article. Tubular element 500 comprises thread 125 laden with gel, the said gel 124 containing an active agent, for use with aerosol generating article 100, preferably for use with aerosol generating device 200. While the specified gel contains from 60 percent to 95 percent by weight of glycerol as a substance to form an aerosol. The said active substance contains nicotine.

EFFECT: reduced e-liquid leakage.

15 cl, 40 dwg

Description

The present invention relates to a tubular member for use with an aerosol generating article (an aerosol generating article), said tubular member comprising gel-loaded filaments.

Nicotine-containing products are known for use with aerosol-generating products. Often these 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 result in leakage of liquid and liquid components.

It would be desirable to provide a tubular member for use in an aerosol generating article and device that exhibits little or no leakage.

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

According to the present invention, there is provided a tubular element comprising a first longitudinal channel and further comprising a gel-loaded thread, said gel containing an active substance.

The present invention provides a tubular element comprising a wrapper which defines a first longitudinal channel and further comprising a plurality of gel-loaded threads, said gel containing an active substance.

In some embodiments, the tubular element includes a wrapper.

In some embodiments, the tubular member includes a wrapper containing paper.

In some embodiments, the tubular element includes a wrapper that defines a first longitudinal channel and contains paper.

In specific embodiments, a single gel-loaded filament is present. However, in alternative embodiments, a plurality of gel-loaded filaments are present. Each gel-loaded thread may have the same gel or different gels.

In certain embodiments, in combination with other features, the tubular element comprises a gel-loaded thread, preferably loaded with the same gel. Alternatively, in other specific embodiments, the tubular element contains different gels. In specific embodiments, the tubular member comprises gel-loaded threads, wherein two different gel-loaded threads are loaded with different gels. In certain embodiments, the tubular element contains more than one gel.

In combination with other features, the tubular element contains a wrapper.

In combination with other features, in certain embodiments, the tubular member includes a susceptor adjacent to at least one gel-loaded filament. The current collector (susceptor) can be thin and elongated. Preferably, the current collector (susceptor) is located in the longitudinal direction inside the tubular element. Preferably, the current collector is surrounded by a gel-loaded thread. In alternative embodiments, the current collector is located between the inner surface of the wrapper and the gel-loaded thread. In specific embodiments, the wrapper includes a current collector. Alternatively or additionally, the current collector may be present in the form of a powder, such as metal powder. The powder may be in the gel, or in the wrapper, or between the gel and the wrapper, or combinations of the above.

In combination with other features, in certain embodiments, the tubular element further comprises a second tubular element.

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

containing:

a first longitudinal channel and further comprising a gel-loaded thread, said gel containing an active substance;

the method includes the steps of:

placing material for the tubular element around the mandrel to form a tubular element; And

feeding the gel-loaded thread from the channel inside the mandrel so that the gel-loaded thread is located inside the tubular element.

The tubular element can be cut into pieces along its length. Various lengths may be required. The lengths of the parts do not have to be the same.

In certain embodiments, the method of manufacturing a tubular element also includes the additional step of cutting the tubular element.

In specific embodiments, the method of manufacturing a tubular member further includes the step of extruding the tubular member material around a mandrel to form the tubular member.

In specific embodiments, the manufacturing method further includes 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,

containing:

a wrapper defining the first longitudinal channel and further containing a gel-loaded thread, said gel containing the active substance; wherein

the method includes the steps of:

feeding the gel-loaded thread onto a web of wrapping material; And

wrapping a web of wrapping material around the gel-loaded thread to form a wrapped combined structure with the gel-loaded thread.

In specific embodiments, the method of manufacturing a tubular member further includes the step of cutting the wrapped gel-loaded filament composite structure into pieces along its length.

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

containing:

wrapper;

a gel-loaded thread, said gel containing an active substance; And

a second tubular element;

the method includes the steps of:

feeding the gel-loaded thread onto the web of wrapping material and feeding the second tubular element onto the gel-loaded thread onto the web of wrapping material;

wrapping a web of wrapping material around the gel-loaded thread and the second tubular element to form a wrapped combined structure with the gel-loaded thread and the second tubular element.

In specific embodiments, the manufacturing method further includes the step of cutting into pieces along the length of the wrapped composite structure with a gel-loaded thread and a second tubular element.

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

containing:

a thread; And

wrapper; And

additionally containing a gel containing the active substance;

the method includes the steps of:

the thread is fed onto the web of wrapping material;

applying the gel to the thread on a cloth made of wrapping material in such a way that the gel impregnates or covers the thread and it is loaded with gel;

wrapping the wrapping material around the gel-loaded thread to form a combined structure with the gel-loaded thread.

In specific embodiments, the method of manufacturing a tubular element further includes the step of dividing the combined structure with a gel-loaded thread into parts along its length.

According to yet another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for manufacturing a tubular member for use in an aerosol generating article (an aerosol generating article),

containing:

wrapper;

a second tubular element extending along the length of the tubular element;

gel-loaded threads located between the second tubular element and the wrapper and extending along the hollow tubular element, the additive being dispersed in the gel; And

a wrapper wrapped around a gel-loaded thread and a hollow tubular member,

the method includes the steps of:

extruding material for the hollow tubular element through the molding head and around a mandrel that forms a hollow core in the hollow tubular element;

co-extruding the gel-loaded filaments from the channel in the forming head and around the hollow tubular element to form a combined core;

the combined core is placed along the web of wrapping material;

wrapping the wrapping material around the composite core to form a wrapped composite structure.

In specific embodiments, the method of manufacturing a tubular element further includes the step of dividing the combined structure into parts along its length to form tubular elements of the required length.

In specific embodiments, the method of manufacturing a tubular element further includes the step of supplying a plurality of filaments.

According to the present invention, there is provided a tubular element comprising a first longitudinal channel and further comprising a gel-loaded porous medium, said gel containing an active substance. In specific embodiments, the tubular element further includes a wrapper.

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

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

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

In specific embodiments, the second tubular element comprises a gel-loaded porous medium. However, in alternative specific embodiments, the second tubular element comprises a gel.

In some specific embodiments in which the above-described first and second tubular members and wrapper are present, a gel-loaded porous media is disposed between the second tubular member and the wrapper that defines the first longitudinal channel.

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

In combination with other elements, in certain embodiments, the tubular element includes a longitudinal element located in the longitudinal direction within the first longitudinal channel.

In combination with other features, in certain embodiments the wrapper is rigid. Alternatively or additionally, in certain embodiments, the longitudinal side of the second tubular element is rigid.

In combination with other features, in certain embodiments, the wrapper is water resistant.

In combination with other features, in certain embodiments, the tubular element further comprises a current collector.

In specific embodiments, the gel-loaded porous media is corrugated. The porous medium can be corrugated before or after it is loaded with gel.

In specific embodiments, the gel-loaded porous media is crushed. The porous medium can be ground before or after it is loaded with gel.

According to the present invention, there is provided a method for manufacturing a tubular element according to any of the previous paragraphs;

the method includes the steps of:

feeding the gel-loaded porous medium onto a web of wrapping material; And

feeding the second tubular element onto the gel-loaded porous medium on the web of wrapping material;

wrapping a web of wrapping material around the gel-loaded porous medium and the second tubular element to form a combined structure with the gel-loaded porous medium and the second tubular element.

In specific embodiments, the method of manufacturing a tubular member further includes the step of cutting into pieces along its length the wrapped composite structure with the gel-loaded porous media and the second tubular member.

According to the present invention, there is provided a tubular element comprising a wrapper which defines a first longitudinal channel, the tubular element further comprising a gel containing an 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 this leaves a fluid channel, for example for aerosol to flow into or out of the tubular element.

In combination with specific 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 and proximal and distal ends and located longitudinally within the first longitudinal channel.

In combination with specific 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 such that they extend along the longitudinal length of the tubular element. Optionally, the gel is provided within all of the plurality of second tubular elements, some of them, or not provided in any of them. However, depending on the particular embodiment, if a gel is present 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 gel-loaded porous medium.

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

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

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

In specific embodiments, the second tubular element contains a gel. Preferably, the gel is at least partially surrounded by the longitudinal sides 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 channel.

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

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

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

In combination with specific embodiments, the gel is a mixture of materials capable of releasing volatile compounds in the form of an aerosol passing through the tubular element, preferably when the gel is heated. The presence of the gel may provide an advantage during storage and transportation or during use in that the risk of leakage from the tubular member of the aerosol generating article or aerosol generating device can be reduced.

Preferably, 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 decomposition 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 the following: triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol and glycerol or polyethylene glycol.

Preferably, the gel is, for example, a thermoreversible gel. This means that the gel becomes fluid when heated to the melting temperature and turns back into a gel at the gelation temperature. The gelation temperature may be equal to or higher than room temperature at atmospheric pressure. Atmospheric pressure is a pressure of 1 atmosphere. The melting temperature may be higher than the gelation temperature. The melting point of the gel can be higher than 50 degrees Celsius, or 60 degrees Celsius, or 70 degrees Celsius, and it can be higher than 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-melting gel that does not melt during use of the tubular member. In these embodiments, the gel can at least partially release the active agent at a temperature that is equal to or higher than the operating temperature of the tubular element used, but lower than the melting temperature of the gel.

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

In combination with certain embodiments, the gel comprises 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 specific embodiments, the active ingredient comprises nicotine (eg, in powder form or liquid form) or a tobacco product or other target compound, eg, released into an aerosol. In specific embodiments, nicotine is included in the gel along with an aerosol-forming agent. It is desirable to fix the nicotine in the gel at room temperature to prevent leakage.

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

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

In those embodiments in which agar is used as the gelling agent, the gel contains, for example, 0.5 to 5 percent by weight, preferably 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 is water and flavorings.

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

If gellan gum is used as the gelling agent, the gel typically 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 is water and flavorings.

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

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

Additionally or alternatively, in some specific embodiments, the tubular member comprises a gel-loaded porous media. Preferably, the gel-loaded porous medium is located between the second tubular element and the wrapper, which defines the first longitudinal channel. Alternatively, in some specific embodiments, the second tubular element comprises a gel-loaded porous medium. These embodiments do not necessarily preclude the location of the gel or gel-loaded porous media, additionally or alternatively, elsewhere. In a specific embodiment, the tubular element contains a gel and a gel-loaded porous medium.

In combination with specific embodiments, the tubular element includes a longitudinal element located in the longitudinal direction within the first longitudinal channel. In specific embodiments, the longitudinal element located longitudinally within the first longitudinal channel is a gel-loaded porous medium. In other specific embodiments, the longitudinal member may be a longitudinal member of any material capable of, for example, occupying space within the tubular member or promoting or assisting the passage of heat or material, or even maintaining rigidity or hardness of the structure.

In some embodiments, the wrapper is rigid or rigid to support the tubular member structure. It is assumed that the gel used in the present invention is semi-solid and is capable of maintaining its shape, especially during use. However, the present invention is not limited to solid gels. In embodiments of the present invention, more fluid gels and gels with higher viscosity than solid gels may also be used. Thus, the use of a wrapper that is itself capable of supporting the tubular member structure is advantageous, although not necessary. Likewise, the longitudinal side of the second tubular element may be hard or rigid. By allowing the wrapper or the longitudinal side of the second tubular member, or both of the wrapper and the longitudinal side of the second tubular member, to be rigid or truly rigid, it is possible to support the structure of the tubular member, but also to facilitate production.

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 of the second tubular element is water resistant. This water-resistant property of the wrapper or the longitudinal side 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 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. Water resistance helps avoid weakening of the structure and loss of rigidity or hardness. It also provides the ability to help prevent gel or liquid leakage, especially when using gels with a flowable structure.

In combination with specific embodiments, the tubular element includes a current collector. The current collector (susceptor) can be any thermally conductive material, for example it can be a metal thread, such as aluminum thread, or a thread containing aluminum or metal powder, such as aluminum powder. Typically, the current collector (susceptor) is located in the longitudinal direction inside the tubular element. The current collector (susceptor) may be located within the gel, or adjacent to it, or near it; or within, adjacent to, or adjacent to the gel-loaded porous medium.

In combination with specific 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 carrier for supporting 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 it, or close to it; or within, adjacent to, or adjacent to the gel-loaded porous medium.

In combination with specific embodiments, the tubular element further comprises sheet material. In combination with certain embodiments, the gel-loaded porous medium comprises sheet material. By using the gel-loaded porous material as the sheet material, it is possible to obtain manufacturing advantages, such as allowing the sheet material to be easily assembled to form a suitable structure. The gel may be loaded into the sheet material prior to collection, or it may be loaded into the sheet material after collection.

According to the present invention, there is provided a tubular element comprising a wrapper which defines a first longitudinal channel and further comprising a gel-loaded porous medium, said gel containing an active substance.

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

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

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

In specific embodiments, the second tubular element comprises a gel-loaded porous medium.

In some specific embodiments in which the above-described first and second tubular elements are present, a gel-loaded porous media is located between the second tubular element and a wrapper that defines the first longitudinal channel.

In some alternative embodiments in which first and second tubular elements are present, 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,

containing:

at least one longitudinal channel and additionally containing a gel containing the active substance;

the method includes the steps of:

placing material for the tubular element around a mandrel that forms the tubular element; And

the gel is extruded from the channel inside the mandrel so that the gel is inside the tubular element.

The method may further include extruding the tubular member material around the mandrel 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, a method for manufacturing a tubular member is also provided.

containing:

a wrapper defining the first longitudinal channel, and further containing a porous medium loaded with a gel, further containing the active substance; and

the method includes the steps of:

feeding the gel-loaded porous medium onto a web of wrapping material; And

wrap the wrapping material around the gel-loaded porous medium.

In specific embodiments, the method of manufacturing a tubular element further includes the step of cutting the wrapped tubular element into pieces along its length.

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

containing:

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

a second tubular element;

the method includes the steps of:

feeding the gel-loaded porous medium onto a web of wrapping material;

feeding the second tubular element onto the gel-loaded porous medium on the web of wrapping material; And

wrapping the wrapping material around the gel-loaded porous medium and the second tubular element.

In specific embodiments, the method of manufacturing a tubular element further includes the step of cutting the wrapped tubular element into pieces along its length.

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 of the present invention.

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

a fluid guide configured to enable fluid movement and having a proximal end and a distal end, and having an inner longitudinal region and an outer longitudinal region separated by a barrier, the inner longitudinal region including an internal longitudinal channel between the distal end and the proximal end, and the outer longitudinal region includes a longitudinal channel that carries the outer fluid through the at least one opening to the distal end of the fluid guide, so that the outer fluid can pass through the outer longitudinal channel to the distal end of the fluid guide; And

a tubular element that contains a gel containing the active substance has a proximal end and a distal end and is located on the distal side of said fluid guide.

In specific embodiments, the barrier separating the inner longitudinal channel and the outer longitudinal channel may be an impermeable barrier, for example, impermeable to fluids.

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

a fluid guide configured to allow fluid to move, having a proximal end and a distal end, and having an inner longitudinal region and an outer longitudinal region separated by a barrier, the inner longitudinal region including an internal longitudinal channel between the distal end and the proximal end, and the outer longitudinal region includes an outer longitudinal channel that carries the outer fluid through at least one opening to the distal end of the fluid guide so that the outer fluid can pass through the outer longitudinal channel to the distal end of the fluid guide; And

a tubular element that contains a porous medium loaded with a gel further containing an active substance, has a proximal end and a distal end and is located on the distal side of the fluid guide.

Preferably, the distal end of the tubular element in some embodiments includes at least one hole. An opening at the distal end of the tubular member allows fluid, such as air, from a region outside the aerosol-generating article to enter the tubular member and move through the tubular member to form an aerosol. The fluid passing through the tubular element can pick up the active substance or any other materials in the gel and transfer them out of the gel in a downstream (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, said cavity may be located at the upstream end of the internal longitudinal channel and at the downstream end of the tubular element. Said cavity allows fluid, for example ambient air, to pass through the outer longitudinal channel into said cavity and contact the gel in the tubular element. Fluid contacting the tubular member may flow into and through the tubular member before returning to the internal longitudinal channel and on to the proximal end of the fluid guide and the proximal end of the aerosol generating article. When this fluid, such as ambient air, contacts the gel, said fluid may entrain the active agent or any other material in the gel or tubular member and carry it along the internal longitudinal channel downstream to the proximal end of the aerosol generating article. To contact the gel, ambient air may pass through the tubular member, or pass through the gel, or pass through the surface of the gel, or combinations of the above.

In specific embodiments, said at least one opening is located in the outer channel of the fluid guide.

Due to the presence of said at least one opening communicating with the external environment and located in the outer channel of the fluid guide, it is possible to distance between the tubular element and the specified at least one opening communicating with the external environment. This provides the ability to help prevent leakage of the gel and its components while also providing the required aerosol retraction.

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

The presence of said at least one hole located in the outer channel 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, said at least one hole is located in the side wall of the tubular element.

The presence of said 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. Due to the presence of said at least one hole located in the side wall of the tubular element, it is possible to easily mix the surrounding fluid with the contents of the tubular element.

In specific embodiments, the aerosol generating article comprises a wrapper. The wrapper may be made of any suitable material, for example the wrapper may comprise paper. Preferably, the wrapper will have openings corresponding to the openings of the fluid guide. Matching of the fluid guide holes and the wrapper can be ensured by forming the holes after wrapping the article.

In specific embodiments, the outer longitudinal channel of the aerosol generating article comprises a single opening or a plurality of openings. The opening may be any opening, slot, cutout, or channel for allowing fluid, such as ambient air, to pass through into the aerosol generating article. This allows fluid to be drawn in from an area outside the aerosol generating article. In use, this may be an external fluid, such as air, which is drawn into the aerosol generating article by passing through said openings first into the outer longitudinal channels before being drawn into other parts of the aerosol generating article. In particular embodiments, the holes are spaced at regular intervals around the circumference of the aerosol generating article, for example, there are 10 or 12 holes. By arranging the holes at regular intervals, a smooth flow of fluid is ensured.

In combination with specific embodiments, the aerosol generating article includes an end cap located at the distal end of the tubular element and having high retraction resistance. The end plug may be fluid impermeable, or it may be substantially fluid impermeable. Preferably, the end plug is located at the farthest end of the aerosol generating article. The end plug having high retraction resistance will have the advantage of displacing fluid so that it flows through the openings of the outer longitudinal channels when negative pressure is applied to the proximal end of the aerosol generating article. In some embodiments, the end plug is fluid impermeable.

In some embodiments, the tubular member includes an end cap. This offers the advantage of ease of manufacture. The end cap of the tubular element will preferably be located at one end of the tubular element. This offers the advantage of ease of manufacture. In some embodiments, the tubular member includes an end plug that is fluid impermeable. If the tubular member includes an end plug that is fluid impermeable, this prevents gel and other fluids from flowing out of the tubular member through the end cap of the tubular member.

In specific embodiments, the inner longitudinal channel of the inner fluid guide region includes a restrictor. In some embodiments, the restrictor is located at or near the proximal end of the fluid guide. In some embodiments, the restrictor is located at or near the downstream end of the fluid guide. However, the restrictor, if present, may be located in the middle region of the inner longitudinal channel of the fluid guide or the outer longitudinal channel. The stopper may also be located near or at the distal end of the internal longitudinal channel. The restrictor may be located at or near the upstream end of the internal longitudinal channel. More than one restrictor may be used in the inner longitudinal channel or in the outer longitudinal channel of the fluid guide.

Restrictors for use with some specific embodiments of the present invention comprise an abrupt constriction, like an opening in a surface such as a wall, or they provide a gradual restriction. Alternatively, in other specific embodiments, the restrictors provide a gradual or gradual restriction, for example, they contain inclined walls or a funnel-shaped constriction towards the opening, or they provide a gradual step restriction across the width of the channel. On the downstream (near) side of the restrictor, gradual or sudden expansion may occur. Specific embodiments include a funnel shape on one or both sides of the stopper. Thus, in the fluid flow from the upstream side to the downstream side (from the far side to the near side), there may be a gradual restriction of flow as the sides of the channel narrow towards the restrictor opening, followed by a gradual expansion of the channel away from the restrictor opening. Typically, the restrictor opening will provide a restriction of 60, or 45, or 30 percent relative to the largest flow area of the channel. Thus, in some embodiments of the present invention, the restrictor may comprise, for example, a constriction with an opening whose flow area is only 60 or 45 or 30 percent of the flow area of the largest or widest portion of the internal longitudinal channel. Typically, specific embodiments of the present invention involve reducing the cross-sectional diameter of the cylindrical channels, for example, from 4 millimeters to 2.5 millimeters or from 4 millimeters to 2.5 millimeters. By varying width reduction ratios and width values, restrictor placements, number of restrictors, and contraction and expansion gradients, it is possible to achieve a particular fluid flow characteristic.

In combination with certain embodiments, the aerosol generating article includes a heating element, such as a susceptor, so that heat can be transferred to the gel in the tubular element. Similar to the tubular element current collector, it may 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 containing:

a fluid guide configured to enable fluid transfer, having a proximal end and a distal end, and having an inner longitudinal region and an outer longitudinal region separated by a barrier, the inner longitudinal region including an internal longitudinal channel between the distal end and the proximal end, and the outer longitudinal region includes an outer longitudinal channel that carries fluid through at least one opening to a distal end of the fluid guide so that fluid can flow through the outer longitudinal channel of the outer fluid control region to the distal end of the fluid guide;

a tubular member that contains a gel containing the active substance and has a proximal end and a distal end; and

the method includes the steps of:

linearly position the tubular element containing the gel and the fluid guide on the web of wrapping material; And

wrap the tubular element and the fluid guide and securely fasten the wrap around the tubular element and the fluid guide.

The present invention provides an aerosol generating device comprising a receiver configured to receive a distal end of an aerosol generating article described herein.

The receiver of the device may be configured with a suitable shape and size so as to allow the distal end or portion of the distal end of the aerosol generating article to fit snugly into the receptacle and to allow the aerosol generating article to be retained in the receptacle during normal use.

Typically the receiver contains a heating element. This will allow heating of the aerosol generating article, or heating of the tubular element, or heating of the gel, preferably containing the active substance, or heating of the gel-laden porous medium, or any combination of the above, directly or indirectly to promote the generation or release of the aerosol or release of material into aerosol. The aerosol is then allowed to pass to the proximal end of the aerosol generating article. In particular embodiments, heating is accomplished directly or indirectly through a heating element or a current collector, or a combination of both.

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

In combination with specific embodiments, the tubular element further comprises a thread. In specific embodiments, the thread is made from natural or synthetic materials, or the thread is made from a combination of natural and synthetic materials. The thread may contain semi-synthetic material. The thread may be made of fibers, or consist of fibers, or partially consist of fibers. The thread can be made, for example, from cotton, cellulose acetate or paper. A combination thread can be used. The thread provides the possibility of facilitating the manufacture of a tubular element containing the active substance. The thread provides the ability to facilitate the introduction of the active substance into the tubular element containing the active substance. The thread makes it possible to stabilize the structure of the tubular element containing the active substance.

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

The porous medium may be any suitable porous material capable of storing or retaining the gel. Ideally, the porous medium is capable of allowing the gel to move within it. In specific embodiments, the gel-loaded porous media comprises natural, synthetic or semi-synthetic materials, or a combination thereof. In specific embodiments, the gel-loaded porous media comprises sheet material, foam, or fibers, such as loose fibers, or a combination thereof. In specific embodiments, the gel-loaded porous media comprises woven, non-woven, or extruded material, or combinations thereof. Preferably, the gel-loaded porous medium contains, for example, cotton, paper, rayon, polylactic acid or cellulose acetate, or combinations thereof. Preferably, the gel-loaded porous medium comprises a sheet material, such as cotton or cellulose acetate. The advantages of a gel-loaded porous medium are that the gel is retained within the porous medium and this allows for the ability to facilitate the manufacture, storage or transport of the gel. This makes it possible to help maintain the desired shape of the gel, in particular during manufacture, transport or use. The porous media used in the present invention may be corrugated or crushed. In specific embodiments, the porous media is a corrugated porous media. In alternative embodiments, the porous media is a particulate porous media. The corrugating or grinding process can be performed before or after gel loading.

Grinding provides a high surface area to volume ratio of the medium, allowing for easy absorption of the gel.

In certain embodiments, the sheet material is a composite material. Preferably, the sheet material is porous. The sheet material provides the ability to facilitate the manufacture of a tubular member containing the gel. The sheet material provides the ability to facilitate the introduction of the active substance into the tubular element containing the gel. The sheet material provides the ability to stabilize the structure of the tubular element containing the gel. The sheet material provides the ability to facilitate transport or storage of the gel. The use of sheet material enables or assists in imparting the desired structure to the porous medium, for example by corrugating the sheet material. Corrugating the sheet material provides the advantage of improving the design to allow channels to pass through the structure. The channels passing through the corrugated sheet material facilitate gel loading, gel retention, and fluid passage through the corrugated sheet material. This provides the benefits of using corrugated sheet material as a porous medium.

The porous medium may be a thread. The thread may contain, for example, cotton, paper or acetate. The thread can also be loaded with gel, like any other porous medium. An advantage of using thread as a porous medium is that it provides the ability to promote ease of manufacture. The thread may be preloaded with gel prior to use in fabricating the tubular member, or the thread may be loaded with gel during assembly of the tubular member.

The thread can be loaded with gel using any known means. The thread may simply be coated with gel, or the thread may be impregnated with gel. During manufacture, the threads can be impregnated with gel and stored ready for use in the assembly of the tubular element. In other processes, the filament is subjected to a loading process to produce a gel-loaded tubular member. Similar to a gel-loaded porous medium or gel alone, the gel preferably contains the active agent. The active substance is as described herein.

In the manufacture of tubular elements, the gel or porous media or filament may be supplied simultaneously while the other components are or are supplied sequentially. Preferably, said components are dispensed, but each component may be assembled, or collapsed, or combined with others, or placed in any known manner so that it is located in the desired location.

As used herein, the term "active substance" means a substance that is capable of activity, eg causing a chemical reaction or capable of modifying 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 emitting an aerosol.

As used herein, the term “aerosol generating device” means a device intended for use with an aerosol generating article to enable 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 received aerosol, for example, in a tubular element, so that a denser aerosol and/or a more stable aerosol can be produced .

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

In the context of this document, the term "hole" is used to describe any opening, crevice, cutout or opening.

As used herein, the term "cavity" is used to describe any void or space at least partially enclosed by a structure. For example, in the present invention, the cavity is a 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 the purposes of the present invention, the flow area of the internal longitudinal channel "tapering" from the first place to the second place means that the flow area of the internal longitudinal channel decreases in diameter from the specified first place to the specified second place. These restrictions are often referred to as "limiters". Thus, as used herein, the term “restrictor” is used to describe a restriction in a fluid channel or a change in the flow area in a fluid channel.

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

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

For purposes of the present invention, as used herein, the term “diameter” or “width” refers to the maximum transverse dimension of a tubular element, aerosol generating article or aerosol generating device, part or portion of any of the tubular element, aerosol generating article or aerosol generating device. For example, "diameter" may be the diameter of an object having a circular cross-section, or it may be the diagonal width of an object having a rectangular cross-section.

As used herein, the term “essential oil” is used to describe an oil that has the characteristic odor and taste of the plant from which it is derived.

As used herein, the term “external fluid” is used to describe fluid from a region outside an aerosol-generating element, article, or device, such as ambient air.

In the context of this document, the term "flavor" 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 alter the flow of a fluid. Preferably, it directs or orients a fluid path for the generated or released aerosol. The fluid guide is capable of causing agitation of the fluid. It provides the ability to assist the acceleration of the fluid as it passes through the fluid guide when the channel narrows in the flow area, or it provides the ability to assist the deceleration of the fluid as it passes through the specified channel when the channel expands in the flow area.

As used herein, the term “assembled” is used to describe a sheet that is rolled, folded, or otherwise compressed or tapered in a direction 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, three-dimensional network material capable of retaining other materials and releasing materials as an aerosol.

The term "herbal material" is used to refer to material from a herbaceous plant. An “herbaceous plant” is an aromatic plant whose leaves or other parts are used for medicinal, culinary, or aromatic purposes and are capable of releasing an aroma into an aerosol produced by an aerosol-generating product.

The term "hydrophobic" as used herein refers to a surface exhibiting water-repellent properties. The hydrophobic property can be expressed in terms of the contact angle. The "water contact angle" is the angle typically measured for a liquid at the point of contact between the gas/liquid interface and a solid surface. It quantifies 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 barrier, through which fluid is substantially impermeable or which does not allow fluid to easily pass through it.

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 being heated and electrical resistance results in resistive heating of the object.

As used herein, the term "longitudinal channel" is used to describe a channel or opening that allows fluid and the like to pass through. Typically, air or generated aerosols flow through the longitudinal channel, carrying materials such as solid particles. Typically, but not necessarily, the longitudinal length of the longitudinal channel will exceed the width. The term "longitudinal channel" also includes the plural, that is, more than one longitudinal channel.

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

As used herein, the term “longitudinal sides” of, for example, a second tubular element is used to describe the longitudinal side or wall of the second tubular element. In some embodiments, they are a monolith, such as cellulose acetate, that forms a tubular member or gel-loaded porous medium. In alternative embodiments, the longitudinal side is a wrapper.

As used herein, the term "mandrel" is used to describe a core on which another material is pressed or molded.

In the context of this document, the term “mint species” is used to refer to plants of the genus Mentha.

The term "mouthpiece" as used herein is used 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" in relation to a fluid guide is used to describe that portion which is closer to the outer circumference of the fluid guide than the middle of the cross-sectional region of the fluid guide. Likewise, the term "inner" is used to describe (in relation to a fluid guide) that portion of the fluid guide that is closer to the center of the cross-sectional region than the region near the outer circumference of the fluid guide.

In the context of this document, the term "channel" is used to describe a passage that allows mutual communication.

As used herein, the term "plasticizer" is used to describe a substance, usually a solvent, added to create or increase ductility or flexibility and to reduce brittleness.

The term "porous medium" as used herein is used to describe any medium capable of holding, storing or supporting a gel. Typically, a porous medium will have channels within its structure that may be filled to contain or store fluid or semi-solids, for example to retain a gel. Preferably, the gel will also be able to pass or be transported along and through the channels within the porous medium. As used herein, the term “gel-loaded porous media” is used to describe a porous media that contains a gel. The gel-loaded porous medium is capable of storing, holding or supporting a quantity of gel.

As used herein, the term "plug" is used to describe a component, segment, or element for use in an aerosol generating article. As used herein, the term “end plug” is used to describe the outermost component or plug of the aerosol generating article at the distal end of the aerosol generating article. Preferably, this end plug has a high pull-in 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 "receiver" in relation to an aerosol generating device is used to describe a chamber of an aerosol generating device capable of receiving a portion of an aerosol generating article. This is usually, but not necessarily, the far end of the product.

As used herein, the term "resistance to draw" (RTD) is used to describe the resistance of a fluid, such as a gas, to being drawn through a material. In this document, retraction resistance is expressed in units of pressure “mmH2O”. Art." or “millimeters of water” and is measured according to 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 pull-in resistance means more than 200 mmH2O. Art." or “millimeters of water” and is measured according to ISO 6565:2002.

As used herein, the term "sheet material" is used to describe a generally planar, flat member whose width and length are substantially greater than its thickness.

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

In the context of this document, the term “chopped” is used to describe something that is finely chopped.

As used herein, the term "rigid" is used to describe that an article is hard enough or rigid enough to resist change in shape, or rigid enough to generally resist deformation during normal use. This includes the case where it can be elastic, so that if deformed it is able to largely return to its original shape. Likewise, the term "solid" as used herein describes the case where an article is resistant to bending or forced change of shape and is generally capable of maintaining its shape, particularly under normal use.

As used herein, the term "susceptor" is used to describe a heating element or any material capable of absorbing electromagnetic energy and converting it into heat. For example, in the present invention, the current collector or heating element is capable of facilitating the transfer of thermal energy to the gel and heating the gel to promote the release of 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.

As used herein, the term “gel-loaded thread” is used to describe a thread of a porous medium that retains, stores or supports a gel, including, for example, threads coated or impregnated with a gel.

Throughout this document, the term “tubular member” is used to describe a component suitable for use in an aerosol generating article. Ideally, the tubular element may, but need not, be longer in the longitudinal direction than it is wide, since it may be part of a multi-component product that ideally has a longitudinal length greater than its width. Typically, but not necessarily, the tubular element is cylindrical. 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 terms "upstream" and "downstream" are used to describe the relative positions in 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 fluid enters from the distal end of the aerosol generating article and moves to 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 may also be described as the upstream end of the aerosol generating article. 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, as being 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, first moves towards the distal end, then turns and moves towards the proximal end of the aerosol generating article, the distal end of the aerosol generating article may be located either upstream or downstream, depending on the corresponding reference point.

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

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 an aerosol-forming agent is present, the gel containing the active agent typically contains, for example, 60 percent to 95 percent by weight glycerol, for example, 80 percent to 90 percent by weight glycerol.

In specific embodiments, the active agent-containing gel comprises 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, for example, 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.

Preferably, the gel contains a gelling agent. Gelling agents can form a solid medium in which the material can be dispersed to form an aerosol.

The gel may contain any 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 weight proportions. Biopolymers can be obtained from polysaccharides. Biopolymers useful as gelling agents include, for example, gellan gums (natural low-acylated gellan gum and high-acylated gellan gum, with low-acylated gellan gum being preferred), xanthan gum, alginates (alginic acid), agar, guar gum, and the like. 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 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 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 parts by weight. The composition 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 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 of about 1 percent by weight to about 4 percent by weight, or about 2 percent by weight. The gel may contain xanthan gum, low acyl gellan gum, and agar ranging from about 1 percent by weight to about 5 percent by weight, or about 2 percent by weight, with xanthan gum, gellan gum, and agar present in substantially equal weight percentages.

The gel may contain a divalent cation. Preferably, the divalent cation includes calcium ions, for example calcium lactate in solution. Divalent cations (such as calcium ions) provide the ability to promote gel formation with formulations that include biopolymers (polysaccharides) such as gellan gums (natural low-acylated gellan gum, high-acylated gellan gums), xanthan gum, alginates (alginic acid), agar, guar gum and the like. Ionic action provides the ability to promote gel formation. The divalent cation may be present in the gel composition in the range of from about 0.1 percent to about 1 percent by weight, or 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 containing less than 10 carbon atoms. Preferably, this carboxylic acid contains five carbon atoms (as in levulinic acid). To obtain a neutral pH of the gel, levulinic acid can be added. This also enables the formation of a gel that contains biopolymers (polysaccharides) such as gellan gums (low acyl gellan gum, high acyl gellan gum), xanthan gum, in particular alginates (alginic acid), agar guar gum and the like. Levulinic acid also provides the ability to improve the organoleptic characteristics of the gel composition. In some embodiments, the gel does not contain a carboxylic acid.

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 exhibiting activity, for example, causing a chemical reaction or at least modifying the generated aerosol.

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 areas of the product. A flavoring agent may create an aroma that influences the flavor properties 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 (e.g. mint), Apiaceae (e.g. anise, fennel), Lauraceae (e.g. bay, cinnamon, rosewood), Rutaceae (e.g. citrus) , Myrtaceae (eg anise myrtle) and Fabaceae (eg licorice). Non-limiting examples of flavor sources include mint, such as peppermint and spearmint, coffee, tea, cinnamon, clove, ginger, cocoa, vanilla, eucalyptus, geranium, agave, juniper, and combinations thereof.

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 specific embodiments, the flavoring agents comprise herbal material. The herbal material includes grass leaf or other herbal material from herbaceous plants, including, but not limited to, mint such as peppermint and spearmint, lemon balm, basil, cinnamon, lemon basil, chives, coriander, lavender, sage, tea, thyme and caraway seeds. Suitable mint leaf species can be taken from a variety of plants, including, but not limited to, peppermint, mint, mint, lemon mint, spearmint, spearmint, spearmint, spearmint, mint, pennyroyal, mint, and mint. . In some embodiments, the flavoring agent may comprise 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 yet another example, the gel contains 65 percent by weight glycerin, 20 percent by weight water, 14.3 percent by weight solid powder tobacco, and 0.7 percent by weight agar.

In the present invention, the fluid guide may have two separate regions, for example, an outer region with an outer longitudinal channel and an inner region with an inner longitudinal channel. Thus, the outer longitudinal channel extends in the longitudinal direction near the outer circumference of the fluid guide, and the inner fluid channel extends in the longitudinal direction near the core or cross-sectional center along the longitudinal axis.

Preferably, in particular embodiments, ambient air flows through the openings in the wrapper and the openings in the fluid guide to the outer longitudinal channel (in 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 the mixed fluid comprising fluid from an area outside the aerosol generating article and material released from the gel containing the active agent or agents. The fluid then flows through the inner longitudinal channel of the fluid guide towards the proximal end of the aerosol generating article. It is provided that the outer and inner longitudinal channels are separated by a barrier. The barrier may be impermeable to fluid or resistant to fluid passing through it, and thus is capable of displacing fluid to the distal end. Preferably, the outer longitudinal channel of the fluid guide includes an opening that is in fluid communication with an area outside the fluid guide and, preferably, with an area outside the product. It is also provided that the outer longitudinal channel is closed at its proximal end such that, in use, fluid received from an area outside the aerosol generating article preferentially flows towards the distal end of the fluid guide. The outer longitudinal channel of the fluid guide has openings at or near the proximal end, but is then open only at the distal end. In contrast, the inner longitudinal channel of the fluid guide is open at both the proximal and distal ends, although it may have various flow restriction elements between its proximal and distal ends. The barrier separating the inner and outer longitudinal channels of the fluid guide causes the fluid that enters the outer longitudinal channel to move towards the distal end of the outer longitudinal channel 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 channel of the fluid guide may be one channel or more than one channel. The outer longitudinal channel may be located within the fluid guide, or it may be one or more channels on the outer surface of the fluid guide, the fluid guide defining a partial wall of the outer longitudinal channel, and the wrapper defining another partial wall of the outer longitudinal channel. The outer or inner longitudinal channels of the fluid guide may comprise a porous material, such as foam, in particular reticulate foam, such that the channels extend through the porous material. In certain embodiments, the fluid guide comprises a porous material, such as foam. The porous material allows fluid to pass through while maintaining its shape. These materials are easily shaped and therefore provide the ability to assist in the manufacture of an aerosol generating article.

In some embodiments, the outer longitudinal channel may extend substantially around an area within the wrapper. In some embodiments, said channel may extend less than completely around the area within the wrapper.

Various aspects or embodiments of aerosol generating articles for use with an aerosol generating device described herein are capable of providing one or more advantages over currently available or previously described aerosol generating articles. For example, an aerosol generating article comprising a fluid guide and internal and external fluid channels in the fluid guide allows the generated aerosol to be efficiently transferred 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 has a mouthpiece end (proximal end) and a distal 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. This allows the aerosol generating device to heat a tubular element containing a gel, preferably containing an active substance, in the aerosol generating article to generate an aerosol containing the active substance.

The aerosol-generating article or parts of the aerosol-generating article enclosing 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, some parts of the aerosol generating products are reusable and other parts are discarded after a single use. For example, aerosol-generating articles may comprise a mouthpiece, which may be reusable, and a disposable portion that encloses 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 removed from the disposable parts.

In combination with specific embodiments, the aerosol generating article comprises a wrapper. The aerosol generating article has an open proximal end and a distal end, which may be open or closed in various specific embodiments. The tubular element, preferably containing a gel containing the active substance, which optionally contains nicotine, is preferably located near the distal end of the aerosol generating article. Application of negative pressure to 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 has 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 said opening. Preferably, a fluid, such as ambient air, drawn into the aerosol generating article through said opening, flows along the outer longitudinal channel of the fluid guide towards 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 channel of the fluid guide from the distal end to the proximal end and exits the aerosol generating article at the open proximal end.

By positioning said opening at a distance from the distal end of the aerosol generating article, the opening is separated from the tubular member containing the gel, thereby reducing the likelihood of gel leakage through said opening. In addition, by providing a channel, for example an outer longitudinal channel, for the flow of air from said opening to the tubular member containing the gel, it is possible to direct fluid from said opening to said gel and the ability of the fluid guide to function as an additional obstacle between said gel and hole. This has the advantage of further reducing the likelihood of leakage from the tubular element through said opening. In addition, the inner longitudinal channel 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 channel of the fluid guide may have a flow area of the internal longitudinal channel that varies along the length of the internal longitudinal channel 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 end of the aerosol generating article products.

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. The advantage of making said fluid guide and aerosol generating article integrally as one monolithic part is the ease of manufacturing just one part as compared to manufacturing multiple parts and then mounting the plurality of parts into the aerosol generating article. However, if the aerosol generating product is a multi-component design requiring multiple components to be joined together, this provides the advantage of being able to more easily change individual components without having to change the entire manufacturing process. Likewise, the fluid guide may be constructed in one piece or in separate pieces for the same reasons, namely ease of manufacture in the case of integral manufacture as a single piece or ease of adaptation in the case of assembly of components fluid guide. The fluid guide is located in the aerosol generating article and has a proximal end, a distal end, and an internal longitudinal channel between the distal end and the proximal end.

The inner longitudinal channel of the fluid guide has a flow section of the inner longitudinal channel.

By providing openings or channels that are inclined relative to the longitudinal direction of the aerosol generating article, the effect is that during use, fluid is directed into the proximal end cavity at an angle to the flow of the main fluid. This provides the advantage of optimizing fluid mixing and generating resistance to retraction (RTD). Mixing also allows for increased turbulence in the flow of generated aerosol and air through the proximal end cavity. These effects, affecting the flow dynamics of the main generated aerosol, provide the opportunity to enhance the above-described advantages. By changing said openings or the dynamic characteristics of the channel, for example by decreasing or increasing the flow area of the channel or by changing the angles of the walls of the channel, or using a combination of the above, it is possible to achieve the required resistance to retraction. Such channels, especially when the channel is narrowed, are known as restrictors or flow restriction elements. According to the present invention, the outer and/or inner longitudinal channels may have a stopper, however, preferably, only the inner longitudinal channel contains a stopper. For simplicity of the following description, when describing the various embodiments and, therefore, the direction of fluid flow and the orientation of the channel, only the internal longitudinal channel will be described. However, the restrictor may equally well be used in the outer longitudinal channel of the present invention, in which the fluid flow is generally directed opposite to the direction of flow in the inner longitudinal fluid flow channel. The common flow path in the outer longitudinal channel extends from the proximal side to the far side, while in the inner longitudinal channel the common flow path in use extends from the far side to the proximal side. The supply fluid passing through said openings enters the aerosol generating article and flows towards the distal end along the outer longitudinal channel. The fluid comes into contact with a 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 are 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. In addition, filter segments containing the restrictor may be combined with other filter segments, which may optionally contain other additives such as sorbents or flavorings.

Preferably, in the cross section of the stopper, each channel runs either along the radius of the cross section or along a line that is offset from the radius by an angle beta (β). The term "radius" refers to any line extending from the center of a cross-section to the edge of the cross-section. Angle beta (β) is measured as the smallest angle between the radius and the central axis of the channel at their intersection. In cases where the channel is not straight, the specified angle can be measured between the longitudinal axis of the filter and the channel outlet.

When viewing the flow area from the flow direction (the direction from the distal to the proximal end of the internal longitudinal channel), the angle beta (β) may be a clockwise angle or a counterclockwise angle with respect to the radius.

If the channel is offset with respect to the radius, then 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 a clockwise or counterclockwise direction. It is possible to improve the mixing of any fluid generated from the article and the fluid supplied as a result of ventilation in the event of an angle beta (β) offset from the radius. In some cases, all of the channels may be oriented in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction, or some of the channels may be oriented in a clockwise direction and some of the channels may be oriented in a counterclockwise direction.

The size of the openings or channels in the fluid guide preferably provides a total open area of 1.0 to 4.0 square millimeters (mm ² ), more preferably 1.5 to 3.5 square millimeters (mm ² ). Preferably, the openings or channels of the inner longitudinal channel of the fluid guide are substantially circular, although other cross-sectional shapes are also possible. The advantage of an internal longitudinal fluid guide channel being circular in cross section is that it allows for more uniform fluid flow compared to channels of a non-circular cross section. Changing the shape of the channels makes it possible to achieve the required flow.

One opening or channel may be provided in the fluid guide. Alternatively, two or more holes or channels spaced apart from each other may be provided in the fluid guide. For example, in one embodiment, a pair of substantially opposing channels is provided. The presence of more than one channel is preferred to allow improved control of the flow of fluid through said channels. Having a single channel is preferred for ease of manufacture.

As for the internal and external longitudinal channels, in which there are two or more holes or channels, these holes or channels may have the same flow area or different flow areas from each other. Having two or more channels in the same area having the same flow area is preferred to allow uniform fluid flow through all channels. However, the presence of two or more channels with different flow areas is preferred to create turbulence in the fluid as it passes through the two or more channels.

Two or more channels may be provided at the same or different angles to the longitudinal axis. Having two or more channels at the same angle to the longitudinal axis is preferred to allow uniform fluid flow through all channels. In general, uniform fluid flow is easier to predict and design. The presence of two or more channels at different angles to the longitudinal axis is preferred to create turbulence in the fluid as it passes through the two or more channels. In general, turbulent air flow allows for improved agglomeration of particles to form aerosol droplets.

Said two or more channels may be provided at the same or different angles to the cross-sectional radius of the fluid guide. Having two or more channels at the same angle to the cross-sectional radius of the fluid guide is preferred to enable uniform fluid flow through all channels. The presence of two or more channels at different angles to the cross-sectional radius of the fluid guide is preferred to create turbulence in the fluid as it passes through the two or more channels.

With respect to the inner and outer longitudinal channels, if there are two or more channels, the channels may be located at substantially the same location along the length of the fluid guide or at different locations along the length. Having two or more channels at the same location along the length of the fluid guide is preferred to allow fluid to flow evenly through all channels. The presence of two or more channels at different locations along a length is preferred to create turbulence in the fluid as it passes through the two or more channels.

In those embodiments in which said openings are provided upstream of said cavity, an outer longitudinal channel between said openings and said cavity allows fluid to pass from a region outside the aerosol generating article to said cavity and a tubular member located outside said cavity in towards the far side. Said cavity may be partially surrounded by the wrapper 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 with different flow areas, then preferably the restrictor located upstream of the others has the smallest flow area. Preferably, the first stopper has a reduced outer diameter compared to the overall diameter of the inner longitudinal channel to form an annular channel between the distal side and the proximal side.

In certain embodiments, the restrictor is substantially spherical. However, alternative forms are also possible. For example, the restriction element may be substantially cylindrical, or it may 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 a collection of smaller particles (eg, granules held together by a binder).

In combination with specific embodiments, the flow area of the inner longitudinal channel of the fluid guide is substantially constant from the distal end to the proximal end. This makes it possible to create a uniform flow of fluid. The inner diameter of the inner longitudinal channel of the fluid guide is typically in the range of 1 to 5 millimeters, typically about 2 millimeters. The inner longitudinal channel typically has a flow area of the inner longitudinal channel that is smaller than the flow area of the cavity at the distal end of the fluid guide. Thus, the fluid guide is characterized by a narrowed flow area of the inner longitudinal channel for accelerating air entering the inner longitudinal channel at the distal end.

In combination with specific embodiments, the flow area of the internal longitudinal channel changes from the distal end to the proximal end. This results in mixing of the fluid. For example, the flow area at the distal end of the internal longitudinal channel may be larger than the flow area at the proximal end of the internal longitudinal channel. If the flow area of the inner longitudinal channel is larger at the distal end than at the proximal end, then the diameter of the inner longitudinal channel 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 channel at the distal end is preferably is from 1 millimeter to 5 millimeters, for example approximately 2 millimeters.

In combination with specific embodiments, the fluid guide preferably has a length of from 3 millimeters to 50 millimeters, preferably about 25 millimeters.

In combination with specific embodiments, the inner longitudinal channel of the fluid guide may have one or more portions located between the distal end and the proximal end and configured to vary the flow of fluid through the inner longitudinal channel from the distal end to the proximal end.

The inner longitudinal channel of the fluid guide may include a first portion between the proximal end and the distal end 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 channel may be configured in any suitable manner to accelerate the fluid as it passes through the inner longitudinal channel from the distal end to the proximal end of the fluid guide. For example, the first portion of the inner longitudinal channel may include restraints defining a constricted flow area of the inner longitudinal channel that causes the fluid to accelerate in a substantially axial direction from the distal end to the proximal end. Preferably, the first portion of the internal longitudinal channel extends in a direction from the far side to the proximal side.

In combination with specific embodiments, the flow area of the inner longitudinal channel in the first portion of the inner longitudinal channel can be narrowed 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 acceleration of the fluid medium as it flows from the far end to the near end. In other words, the flow area of the first section of the internal longitudinal channel can be narrowed from the distal end of the first section to the proximal end of the first section. Thus, the distal end of the first portion of the inner longitudinal channel (located toward the distal end of the fluid guide) may have an inner diameter greater than the inner diameter of the proximal end of the first portion (located toward the proximal end of the fluid guide).

In combination with specific embodiments, the flow area of the longitudinal channel in the first portion of the internal longitudinal channel may be constant from the distal end of the first portion to the proximal end of the first portion. In such embodiments, the constant flow area of the internal longitudinal channel at the first section of the internal longitudinal channel may be smaller than the flow area of the internal longitudinal channel at the distal end of the internal longitudinal channel.

If the inner longitudinal channel of the fluid guide is narrowed from the distal end to the proximal end, then the narrowing of the inner longitudinal channel typically involves gradually reducing the flow area of the inner longitudinal channel from the distal end to the proximal end of the fluid guide. Preferably, the decrease in the diameter of the inner longitudinal channel is linear from the distal end to the proximal end of the first section, for example, it has the shape of a truncated cone. A linear reduction in flow area, such as a frusto-conical shape, is preferred to create a smooth flow of fluid through the fluid guide.

Alternatively, said narrowing is uneven. For example, in certain embodiments, the narrowing of the internal longitudinal channel is stepped, such that the flow area of the internal longitudinal channel narrows in discrete gradations or steps from the distal end to the proximal end. An uneven reduction in the flow area of the inner longitudinal channel is advantageous to create turbulence in the fluid as it passes along the fluid guide.

The inner longitudinal channel 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 passes from the distal end to the proximal end of the fluid guide. The second portion of the inner longitudinal channel may be configured in any suitable manner to slow down the fluid as it passes through the inner longitudinal channel from the distal end to the proximal end of the internal longitudinal channel. For example, the first portion of the internal longitudinal channel may include guides defining an expanded flow area of the internal longitudinal channel that causes the fluid to decelerate in a substantially axial direction from the distal end to the proximal end. Preferably, the second section of the internal longitudinal channel is located after the first section in the direction from the far side to the proximal side.

In combination with specific embodiments, the flow area of the first portion of the internal longitudinal channel may expand from a location proximal to the distal end of the fluid guide to a location proximal to the proximal end of the fluid guide to cause the fluid to decelerate as it passes away from far end to near end. The flow area of the internal longitudinal channel in the first section may expand from the distal end of the second section to the proximal end of the second section of the fluid guide. Thus, the distal end of the second portion of the inner longitudinal channel (the location proximal to the distal end of the fluid guide) may have an inner diameter smaller than the diameter of the proximal end of the second portion (the location proximal to the proximal end of the fluid guide).

In combination with specific embodiments, the flow area of the second portion of the internal longitudinal channel may be constant from the distal end of the second portion to the proximal end of the second portion. In such embodiments, the constant flow area of the second internal longitudinal channel portion may be greater than the flow area at the distal end of the second internal longitudinal channel portion.

If the inner longitudinal channel of the fluid guide has an expanded flow area from the distal end to the proximal end, then this expansion of the internal longitudinal channel flow area is typically a gradual expansion of the internal longitudinal channel flow area from the distal end of the second portion to the proximal end of the fluid guide. Preferably, the diameter expansion of the inner longitudinal channel may be linear from the distal end to the proximal end of the second portion, for example, it may be in the shape of a truncated cone. A linear reduction in the flow area, such as a frusto-conical shape, is preferred to create a smooth flow of fluid through the fluid guide.

Alternatively, said narrowing is uneven. For example, in certain embodiments, the narrowing of the internal longitudinal channel is stepped, such that the flow area of the internal longitudinal channel narrows in discrete gradations or steps from the distal end to the proximal end. An uneven reduction in the flow area of the inner longitudinal channel is advantageous to create turbulence in the fluid as it passes along the fluid guide.

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

The diameter of the distal end of the internal longitudinal channel is usually 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 channel to the diameter of the distal end of the inner longitudinal channel is usually from 1:4 to 3:4, or from 2:5 to 3:5, or preferably 1:2.

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

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

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

The aerosol generating article may contain more than one longitudinal channel. In specific embodiments, the aerosol generating article comprises from 2 to 20 outer longitudinal channels in the outer portion of the fluid guide. For example, the product may contain from 6 to 14 external longitudinal channels, typically from 10 to 12 channels. A different number of channels makes it possible to create aerosol flows with different dynamic characteristics.

Preferably, each outer longitudinal channel communicates with at least one opening through the wrapper. However, the aerosol generating article may include one or more external longitudinal channels that are not in direct communication with the opening. Preferably, each outer longitudinal channel communicates with at least one opening through the outer wall of the fluid guide. If present, 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 channel to enable optimal fluid flow to flow into the aerosol generating article and thereafter through the outer longitudinal channel to the distal end of the aerosol generating article.

Preferably, the outer longitudinal channel and the wrapper contain more than one opening. For example, in combination with certain embodiments, the outer longitudinal channel and wrapper contain from 2 to 20 holes. Preferably, the number of holes is equal to the number of outer longitudinal channels, and each hole corresponds to a separate outer longitudinal channel. Preferably, the holes are spaced at regular intervals around the circumference of the product to promote uniform distribution of fluid.

In combination with specific embodiments, the side walls of the outer longitudinal channel extend between the area on the outside of the fluid guide and the inside 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 channels.

In combination with certain embodiments, the outer longitudinal channels extend completely around the area within the wrapper. Alternatively, the outer longitudinal channel extends less than completely around the circumference of the fluid guide, such as 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 along the circumference of the fluid guide. In specific embodiments, the outer longitudinal channel extends at least 5 percent of the circumference of the fluid guide.

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

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

The distal end of the longitudinal channels may be positioned at a distance from the distal end of the aerosol generating article so that fluid that enters the opening of the outer longitudinal channels can contact the tubular member and generate or release an aerosol from the gel. The generated or released aerosol in the tubular element may pass through the internal longitudinal channel of the fluid guide to the proximal end of the aerosol generating article.

Preferably, at least 5% of the fluid flowing through the aerosol generating article contacts the tubular element and the gel, preferably containing the active substance. More preferably, at least 25 percent of the air flowing 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 flowing through the aerosol generating article will not contact the tubular member, although in other specific embodiments this amount may be up to at least 10 percent of the fluid flowing through the aerosol generating article.

In combination with specific embodiments, the distal end of the fluid guide is located at a distance 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, at a distance from 7 millimeters to 17 millimeters from the distal end of the aerosol generating article, preferably at a distance from 12 millimeters to 16 millimeters.

Preferably, the aerosol generating article is typically cylindrical. This makes it easy to create 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, for example, from 10 millimeters to 60 millimeters, from 15 millimeters to 50 millimeters, or from 20 millimeters to 45 millimeters.

The resistance to retraction (RTD) of the aerosol generating article will vary depending on, among other things, the length and dimensions of the channels, the size of the openings, the dimensions of the most constricted flow area of the internal longitudinal channel and the materials used. In specific embodiments, the RTD of the aerosol generating article is in the range of 50 millimeters of water column to 140 millimeters of water column (H ₂ O), from 60 millimeters of water column to 120 millimeters of water column (H ₂ O), or from 80 millimeters of water column to 100 millimeters of water column (H ₂ O). The RTD of an article refers to the static pressure difference between one or more orifices on one side and the mouthpiece end of the article on the other side as fluid passes through the internal longitudinal channel under steady-state conditions such that the volumetric flow rate is 17.5 milliliters per second at the mouthpiece end. The RTD of a sample can be measured in the manner outlined in ISO 6565:2002.

Preferably, the aerosol generating articles of the present invention include an opening at a location along the outer longitudinal channel. Thus, said hole is located at a location upstream of the restrictor. In particular embodiments, said opening will be provided as a row or rows of openings extending through the wrapper and/or fluid guide to allow retraction into the aerosol generating article. The fluid is first drawn through said openings and then passes through the outer longitudinal channels towards the distal end of the aerosol generating article, where the fluid is allowed to contact the tubular element and, preferably, a gel within the tubular element, preferably a gel containing the active substance, before passing along the internal longitudinal channel and through the limiter, if present in this embodiment. Preferably, the total length of the internal fluid path from the opening to the proximal end of the aerosol generating article is at least 9 millimeters. More preferably, it is at least 10 millimeters to ensure optimal aerosol formation in terms of, inter alia, draw-in resistance and cooling effect.

By adjusting the number and size of the holes, it is possible to adjust the amount of fluid supplied to the aerosol generating article during drawing. For example, one or two rows of openings may be provided through the wrapper to allow fluid to easily 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 pull resistance (RTD) and fluid flow into the aerosol generating article enable the generation of different aerosols, so that the aerosol generating articles of the present invention offer a wider range of design possibilities.

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

In specific embodiments, the fluid guide comprises a plastic material, a metal material, a cellulosic material such as 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. If the wrapper contains cardboard or paper, then the holes can be made by laser cutting.

The wrapper provides strength and structural rigidity to the aerosol generating article. If paper or cardboard is used for the wrapper and a high degree of rigidity is required, the density of the wrapper is preferably 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 the location where a restrictor, if any, is incorporated into the aerosol generating article, or in other locations, such as in cavities (if any), where less structural support is provided. In some embodiments, the tubular element wrapper includes a metal layer. The metal layer can be used to concentrate external energy supplied to heat the tubular element; for example, the metal layer can act as a current collector with respect to the electromagnetic field or collect radiant energy supplied by an external heat source. In the presence of an internal heat source, the metal layer provides the ability to prevent heat from escaping from the tubular member through the wrapper, thereby increasing heating efficiency. This also makes it possible to achieve uniform heat distribution along the periphery of the tubular element.

In specific embodiments, the aerosol generating article comprises a seal between an area outside the fluid guide and an area inside 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 the 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, which may include a filter, or, in some cases, the mouthpiece may be formed as an extension of the tipping paper, if present. In other embodiments, the mouthpiece may be configured as a 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.

A 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 the aerosol generating article is fully assembled, it forms a fluid channel through which fluid can flow. By creating negative pressure 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) and then flows through the outer longitudinal channel in the direction the distal end of the aerosol-generating article. Here it is possible to capture an aerosol generated, for example, as a result of heating a tubular element containing the active substance. The entrained aerosol fluid is then allowed to flow through the internal longitudinal channel of the fluid guide and through the open mouth end of the aerosol generating article.

Preferably, the aerosol generating article is configured to be located in the aerosol generating device such that the heating element of the aerosol generating device is capable of heating the section of the aerosol generating article that contains the tubular element. For example, the tubular element may be a distal end of the aerosol-generating article if the tubular element, preferably containing a gel containing the active substance, is located at or near the distal end of the aerosol-generating article.

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

The aerosol generating device preferably includes an electronic control circuit operably coupled to the heating element. The electronic control circuit may be configured to control the heating of the heating element. The electronic control circuit may be internal to the device body.

The electronic control circuit may be provided in any suitable form, and may comprise, for example, a controller or a memory and a controller. The controller may comprise one or more of the following: 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 electronic control circuit may include a memory that stores instructions that cause one or more components of the circuit to perform a function or aspect of the electronic control circuit. The functions assigned to the electronic control circuit 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 control the supply of power to the heating element. Power can be supplied to the heating element in the form of pulses of electrical current. The electronic control circuit may be configured to monitor the electrical resistance of the heating element and control the supply of power to the heating element depending on the electrical resistance of the heating element. Thus, the electronic control circuit has the ability to regulate the temperature of the resistive element.

The aerosol generating device may include a temperature sensor, such as a thermocouple, operably coupled to electronic control circuitry to regulate the temperature of the heating elements. The temperature sensor can be located in any suitable location. For example, a temperature sensor may be in contact with or adjacent to a heating element. The sensor can transmit signals related to the measured temperature to an electronic control circuit, 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, which preferably contains a gel containing the active substance and is located in the aerosol generating article, to a temperature sufficient to generate an aerosol.

The electronic control circuitry may be operatively coupled to a power supply, which may be internal to the housing. The aerosol generating device may comprise any suitable power source. For example, the power source for the aerosol generating device may be a battery or a set of batteries. The batteries or power supply unit may be rechargeable, removable or replaceable.

In combination with specific 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 generated heat over a larger 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 form 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 elongate element configured to extend along the side of the product housing when the distal end of the cartridge is positioned in the device.

Alternatively, for inserting a heating element into an aerosol-generating article, it is possible to apply heat from the outside to the tubular element by means of a heating jacket that is thermally coupled circumferentially to the wrapper of the aerosol-generating article. Preferably, the jacket is located in that part of the aerosol generating article that contains the tubular element.

In other specific embodiments, the heating element uses induction heating.

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

Preferably, the portion of the aerosol generating article containing the tubular element is located in the aerosol generating device such that the heating element or heating elements that generate electromagnetic radiation for induction heating are adjacent to the portion of the aerosol generating article containing the tubular element. Thus, preferably, the heating elements of the aerosol generating device are located adjacent to the gel within the aerosol generating article when it is placed in the aerosol generating device.

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

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

In certain embodiments, the gel within the tubular element may be initially separated from the aerosol received in the tubular element and allowed to be released into the aerosol in response to a rupture of the frangible septum. Optionally, in certain embodiments, each of the plurality of gel portions may be sealed behind a corresponding frangible septum, and rupture of an appropriate number of frangible septa is required to achieve a desired level of active agent entrainment in the aerosol received in the tubular member.

In combination with specific embodiments, the aerosol generating device may be configured to receive more than one aerosol generating article described herein. For example, the aerosol generating device may include a receptacle into which an elongated heating element extends. One aerosol-generating article may be placed in a receptacle on one side of the heating element, and another aerosol-generating article may be placed in a receptacle on the other side of the heating element. Or, in other specific embodiments, the aerosol generating device includes more than one receiver. This makes it possible to simultaneously accommodate more than one aerosol-generating product.

In combination with specific embodiments of the present invention, the wrapper or portion of the wrapper is water resistant or hydrophobic, which provides some degree of water permeability or resistance to moisture penetration. This may be a wrapper of the tubular element, a wrapper of the aerosol generating article, or a wrapper of both the tubular element and the aerosol generating article. It may also be a wrapper of 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 element within the first tubular element. The wrapper may be naturally impermeable and thus resistant to penetration of water or moisture. The wrapper may be multi-layered and have a barrier that prevents or reduces the passage of water or is at least resistant to the penetration of water or moisture. In combination with certain embodiments, a hydrophobic barrier or hydrophobic treatment of the wrapper may occur over the entire area of the wrapper. Alternatively, in other specific embodiments, the hydrophobic barrier or wrapper treatment takes place on a portion of the wrapper, for example, it can take place on one side of the wrapper, namely either the inside or outside of the wrapper, or both sides of the wrapper can be treated.

The hydrophobic region of the wrapper can be produced by a method comprising the steps of: applying a liquid composition containing a fatty acid halide to at least one surface of the wrapper; and expose said surface for approximately 5 minutes at a temperature of 120 degrees Celsius to 180 degrees Celsius. The fatty acid halide reacts in situ with the protonogenic 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 provides the ability to reduce or

preventing water, moisture or liquid from adsorption to or permeation through the wrapping paper. Preferably, the hydrophobically treated wrapper does not adversely affect the organoleptic properties of the product.

In certain embodiments, the wrapper used generally forms the outer portion of the aerosol generating article. In specific embodiments, the wrapper contains paper, homogenized paper, homogenized tobacco impregnated paper, homogenized tobacco, wood pulp, hemp, flax hemp, rice straw, esparto, eucalyptus, cotton, and the like. In specific embodiments, the substrate or wrapper paper has a density of the substrate or wrapper paper in the range of 10 to 50 grams per square meter, such as 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 covalent bonding of 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 provides the ability to reduce or prevent coloring or absorption or permeation through the wrapper of a fluid, such as a liquid flavor or component released from the liquid.

In various specific embodiments, the wrapper, in particular the region 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 can give a Cobb surface water absorbency value (ISO535:1991) (at 60 seconds) of less than 40 g/ ^m2 , less than 35 g/ ^m2 , less than 30 g/m ² or less than 2 5 g/m ² .

In various specific embodiments, the wrapper and, in particular, the region of the wrapper adjacent to the tubular element, preferably containing the gel containing the active substance, has a contact angle of at least 90 degrees, for example, at least 95 degrees, 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 is reported as the interfacial contact angle, which is expressed in “degrees” and can range from zero degrees to approximately 180 degrees. If the contact angle is not specified with the term "hydrophobic", then the contact angle is at least 90 degrees.

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

Preferably, the wrapper is made from any suitable cellulosic material, preferably a cellulosic material derived from plants. In many embodiments, the wrapper is made of a material with pendant protonogenic groups. Protonogenic groups are preferably 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 for use in the present invention will now be described by way of example. Wrapping material with pendant hydroxyl groups includes cellulosic material such as paper, wood, textiles, natural fibers as well as man-made fibers. The wrapper may also contain one or more filler materials, for example calcium carbonate, carboxymethylcellulose, potassium citrate, sodium citrate, sodium acetate or activated carbon.

The hydrophobic surface or region of the cellulosic wrap-forming material may be formed using any suitable hydrophobic reagent or hydrophobic group. The hydrophobic agent is preferably chemically bonded to the cellulosic material or pendant 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 allows the formation of hydrophobic groups that are attached to the paper material more firmly than by simply applying a coating of hydrophobic material to the cellulosic material forming the wrapper. By chemically bonding the hydrophobic agent at the molecular level in situ, rather than bulk depositing a layer of hydrophobic material to form a surface coating, it is possible to improve the permeability of the paper since the coating tends to close or block the pores in the cellulosic material forming a continuous sheet and decreased permeability. By chemically bonding the hydrophobic groups to the paper in situ, it is also possible to reduce the amount of material required to render the surface of the wrapper hydrophobic. As used herein, the term "in situ" refers to the location of a chemical reaction that occurs at or near the surface of the solid material forming the wrapper and that is distinguishable from the reaction with cellulose dissolved in solution. For example, the reaction occurs on or near the surface of a cellulosic material forming a wrapper that contains the 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 tubular region.

The hydrophobic reagent may contain an acyl group or a fatty acid group. The acyl group or fatty acid group or 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. As such, these reactions with pendant hydroxyl groups are capable of esterifying the cellulosic material.

In one embodiment of the wrapper, the acyl group or fatty acid group includes a C ₁₂ -C ₃₀ alkyl (an alkyl group having 12 to 30 carbon atoms), a C ₁₄ -C ₂₄ alkyl (an alkyl group having 14 to 24 carbon atoms), or , preferably C ₁₆ -C ₂₀ alkyl (alkyl group having 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 has 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 palmitoyl chloride, stearoyl chloride, or behenoyl chloride, and a mixture thereof. The product of the in situ reaction between the fatty acid chloride and the cellulosic material forming the sheet is cellulose fatty acid esters and hydrochloric acid.

Any suitable method of forming a chemical bond of a hydrophobic reactant or group with a cellulosic material forming a hydrophobic tubular region can be used. The hydrophobic group is covalently bonded to the cellulosic material by diffusion of the fatty acid halide onto the surface of the material without the use of a solvent.

In one example, an amount of a hydrophobic agent, such as an acyl halide, a fatty acid halide, a fatty acid chloride, palmitoyl chloride, stearoyl chloride, or behenoyl chloride, or a mixture thereof, is applied without a solvent (in a solvent-free process) to the surface of the wrapping paper under controlled conditions. temperature, for example, in the form of drops of reagents forming circles 20 micrometers in size, located at regular intervals on the specified surface. By controlling the vapor pressure of the reactant, it is possible to promote the reaction by diffusion to form ester bonds between the fatty acid and cellulose while continuously removing unreacted acid chloride. Esterification of cellulose is in some cases based on the reaction of alcohol groups or pendant hydroxyl groups of cellulose with an acyl halide, such as an acyl chloride, including a fatty acid chloride. The temperature that can be used to heat the hydrophobic reactant depends on the chemical nature of the reactant, and for fatty acid halides it ranges, for example, from about 120 degrees Celsius to about 180 degrees Celsius.

The hydrophobic agent may be applied to the cellulosic wrapping paper material in any suitable amount or density. In many embodiments, the density 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 in the range of from 0.1 to 3 grams per square meter, from 0.1 up to 2 grams per square meter, or from 0.1 to 1 grams per square meter. The hydrophobic reagent can be applied to the surface of the wrapping paper by printing and form a uniform or non-uniform pattern.

Preferably, the hydrophobic tubular region is formed by reacting a fatty acid ester group or a fatty acid group with pendant hydroxyl groups on the cellulosic wrapping paper material to form a hydrophobic surface. The reaction step can be accomplished by applying a fatty acid halide (eg, such as chloride) that chemically bonds the fatty acid ester group or fatty acid group to pendant hydroxyl groups on the cellulosic wrapping paper material to form a hydrophobic surface. The application step can be carried out 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 contacting said solid support with the surface of the paper. The fatty acid halide can also be applied by printing methods such as intaglio printing, flexography, inkjet printing, heliography, by spraying, by wetting, or by dipping into a liquid containing the fatty acid halide. During the application step, discrete islands of reagent can be applied to form a uniform or uneven pattern of hydrophobic regions on the surface of the paper wrapper. The uniform or non-uniform pattern of hydrophobic regions on the wrapping paper may be formed from at least 100 discrete hydrophobic islands, at least 500 discrete hydrophobic islands, at least 1000 discrete hydrophobic islands, or at least 5000 discrete hydrophobic islands. The discrete hydrophobic islands can have any suitable shape, such as round, rectangular or polygonal. The discrete hydrophobic islands may have any suitable average lateral size. In many embodiments, the discrete hydrophobic islands 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 on the surface, it is also possible to apply a gas stream to the surface of the wrapper.

In combination with specific embodiments, a hydrophobic wrapper can be made by a process comprising applying a liquid composition containing an aliphatic acid halide (preferably a fatty acid halide) to at least one surface of the paper wrapper, optionally applying a gas stream to the surface of the wrapper to promote diffusion of the supported fatty acid halide, and exposing the surface of the wrapper to a temperature of between 120 degrees Celsius and 180 degrees Celsius for at least 5 minutes, the fatty acid halide reacting in situ with the hydroxyl groups of the cellulosic material in the wrapping paper, resulting in to the formation of fatty acid esters. Preferably, the paper wrapper is made of paper and the fatty acid halide is stearoyl chloride, palmitoyl chloride or a mixture of fatty acid chlorides with 16-20 carbon atoms in the acyl group. Thus, the hydrophobic paper wrapper made by the above process is distinguishable from a material made by coating the surface with a layer of preformed cellulose fatty acid ester.

The hydrophobic wrapper can be manufactured by a process of applying a liquid reagent composition to at least one surface of the wrapping paper with a density 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 such densities makes the surface of the wrapping paper hydrophobic.

In many specific embodiments, the thickness of the wrapping paper allows hydrophobic groups or reactant applied to one surface to spread to the opposing surface, effectively imparting similar hydrophobic properties to both opposing surfaces. In one example, the wrapping paper was approximately 43 micrometers thick and both surfaces were rendered hydrophobic by an engraving (printing) process using stearoyl chloride as the hydrophobic reagent for one surface.

In some embodiments, the material or method of imparting hydrophobic properties to the hydrophobic tubular region does not substantially affect the permeability of the wrapper in other regions. Preferably, the reagent or method for creating a hydrophobic tubular region changes the permeability of the wrapper in that treated region (compared to the untreated region 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 suitable printing methods may be used, such as gravure printing, inkjet printing and the like. Intaglio printing is preferred. The reactant may include any suitable hydrophobic groups that may be chemically, eg covalently, associated with the wrapper, in particular with the cellulosic material or side 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 specific embodiments, the tubular element includes a current collector. Preferably, the current collector is elongated and located in the longitudinal direction within the tubular element. Preferably, the current collector is in thermal contact with the gel or porous material loaded with the gel. This allows heat to be facilitated from the heating element in the aerosol generating device to and through the aerosol generating article, preferably through the tubular element to the current collector, and therefore to the gel or gel-loaded porous medium if located in the vicinity of the current collector. When heating by induction heating is carried out, a fluctuating electromagnetic field is emitted through an aerosol-generating article, preferably through a tubular element, to a susceptor, so that the susceptor converts the fluctuation field into thermal energy, thereby heating the gel or gel-loaded porous material in its vicinity. Typically, the pantograph has a thickness of 10 to 500 micrometers. In preferred embodiments, the pantograph has a thickness of 10 to 100 micrometers. Alternatively, the current collector may be present in the form of a powder that is dispersed within a gel. The current collector is configured to dissipate energy from 1 Watt to 8 Watts, for example, from 1.5 Watts to 6 Watts, when used in conjunction with a particular inductor. The term "capable" means that the elongated current collector may be made of a specific material and may have specific dimensions that provide the ability to dissipate energy from 1 Watt to 8 Watts when used in conjunction with a specific inductor that generates a fluctuating magnetic field with a known frequency and known field strength.

According to yet another aspect of the present invention, there is provided an aerosol generating system comprising an electrical aerosol generating device having an inductor for generating an alternating or fluctuating electromagnetic field, and an aerosol generating article comprising a current collector as described and defined herein. The aerosol generating article interacts with the aerosol generating device such that the fluctuating electromagnetic field generated by the inductor induces a current in the pantograph, which results in heating of the pantograph. The electrical aerosol generating device is preferably capable of generating a fluctuating electromagnetic field having a magnetic field strength (H-field strength) from 1 kiloampere per meter to 5 kiloampere per meter (kA/m), preferably from 2 kiloampere per meter to 3 kiloampere per meter ( kA/m), for example 2.5 kiloamperes per meter (kA/m). The electrical aerosol generating device is preferably capable of generating 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 pantograph according to the present invention is part of a consumable article, and thus is disposable. By using a new susceptor to heat each product, it is possible to increase aroma stability in a sequence of aerosol-generating products. The cleaning requirements of the aerosol generating device are much more lenient for devices with reusable heating elements, and cleanliness can be achieved without damaging the heat source. In addition, the absence of a heating element that must penetrate the aerosol-generating substrate means that insertion and removal of the aerosol-generating article from the aerosol-generating device is less likely to result in unintentional damage to the aerosol-generating article or aerosol-generating device. Consequently, the entire aerosol-forming system is more reliable.

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

In combination with specific embodiments, the aerosol generating article is configured to interface with an electrical 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 said fluctuating electromagnetic field. In use, the aerosol generating article interacts with the aerosol generating device such that the current collector is placed within the fluctuating electromagnetic field generated by the inductor.

Preferably, the pantograph has a length dimension greater than its width dimension or its thickness dimension, for example greater than twice its width dimension or its thickness dimension. Thus, the pantograph can be described as an elongated pantograph. Such a current collector is located essentially in the longitudinal direction inside the rod. This means that the length of the elongated pantograph is approximately parallel to the longitudinal direction of the aerosol generating article, for example, within an angle of plus/minus 10 degrees relative to the longitudinal direction of said rod. In preferred embodiments, the elongated current collecting element may be located in a central, radial 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 blade. 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 equal to the length of the tubular element, and typically it is from 20 percent to 120 percent of the longitudinal length of the tubular element, for example, from 50 percent to 120 percent of the length of the tubular element, preferably from 80 percent to 120 percent of the longitudinal length of the tubular element. The pantograph preferably has a width of from 1 millimeter to 5 millimeters, and it may have a thickness of from 0.01 millimeter to 2 millimeters, for example from about 0.5 millimeter to 2 millimeters. A preferred embodiment may have a thickness of from 10 micrometers to 500 micrometers, or even more preferably from 10 to 100 micrometers. If the pantograph has a constant cross-section, for example a circular cross-section, then its preferred width or diameter is from 1 millimeter to 5 millimeters.

The current collector may be made of any material capable of being 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 current collectors may be 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 placed within electromagnetic fields having similar frequency and field strength values. Thus, all parameters of the current collector, such as material type, length, width and thickness, can be changed to provide the required power dissipation within a known electromagnetic field.

Pantographs can be 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 burning of material in contact with the pantograph. Suitable current collectors may comprise a non-metallic core with a metal layer located on the non-metallic core, for example, 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 current collector may contain a protective coating of glass, ceramic or inert metal, made over a core of current-collecting material.

Preferably, the current collector is located in thermal contact with the aerosol-forming substrate, for example, within a tubular element. Thus, when the current collector 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 located 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 gel-loaded porous medium.

In specific embodiments, the aerosol generating article or tubular element comprises a single current collector. Alternatively, in other specific embodiments, the 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 applicable to any other embodiment of a tubular element, aerosol generating article or aerosol generating device.

Referring now to the drawings, which illustrate one or more aspects described in the present invention. However, it should 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, and the like. However, it should be understood that the use of a number to designate a component on a particular figure is not intended to limit a component on another figure designated by the same number. In addition, the use of different numbers to designate components in different figures is not intended to indicate that differently numbered components may not be the same or similar to otherwise numbered components. The figures are presented for purposes of illustration and not limitation. The schematic drawings shown in the figures are not necessarily to scale.

In FIG. 1 shows 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.

In 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.

In FIG. 3-6 show schematic cross-sectional views of various embodiments of aerosol generating articles.

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

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

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

In FIG. 10 is a schematic side view of an embodiment of the aerosol generating article shown in FIG. 9, with part of the wrapping paper removed.

In FIG. 11 is a schematic view of a fluid guide in an example of an aerosol generating article.

In FIG. 12 is a schematic view of a sample aerosol generating article into which the fluid guide shown in FIG. eleven.

In FIG. 13 is a sectional view taken along the length of the aerosol generating article.

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

In FIG. 17 shows part of the manufacturing process of a tubular element for an aerosol generating article.

In FIG. 18 shows part of another process for manufacturing a tubular element for an aerosol generating article.

In FIG. 19 shows part of an alternative process for manufacturing a tubular element 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 are cross-sectional views of additional tubular members for the aerosol generating article.

In FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional view along the length of the aerosol generating article.

In FIG. 25-29 show schematic cross-sectional views of various tubular elements.

In FIG. 30-34 show schematic cross-sectional views of various tubular elements.

In FIG. 35 is a schematic perspective view of a tubular member containing a gel-loaded thread.

In FIG. 36 is a schematic sectional view (in the longitudinal direction) of the tubular member shown in FIG. 35.

In FIG. 37 is a sectional view of the tubular member shown in FIG. 35.

In FIG. 38 is a sectional view of a tubular member.

In FIG. 39 is a sectional view of a tubular member.

In FIG. 1-6 show a longitudinal sectional view of the aerosol generating articles 100. In other words, FIG. 1-6 show a view of the aerosol generating article 100 cut in half in the longitudinal direction. In the embodiments of FIGS. 1-6, the aerosol generating article is tubular. Looking at the entire end surface of the aerosol generating article 100 shown in FIG. 1-6, whether it is the near end 101 or the far end 103, it will be seen that it is round. Tubular member 500, if used in the embodiments of FIGS. 1-6 or shown entering them, is also tubular. The tubular element 500 may be a tubular component of the tubular aerosol generating article 100 in the embodiments of FIGS. 1-6. When looking at the entire end surface of the tubular member 500 used or shown in FIG. 1-6, whether it is the proximal end or the distal end, it will be seen that the end surface of the tubular member is circular. Since Fig. 1-6 are two-dimensional longitudinal sectional views, it is not possible to see the lateral curvature of the aerosol generating article and tubular member 600, along with other components. The drawings are for illustrative purposes and explanation of the present invention and may not be to scale. The tubular member 500 shown in FIG. 1-6 is intended to illustrate the tubular member 500 in the aerosol generating article 100, however, features of the aerosol generating article 100 are optional for the embodiment of the tubular member 500 shown in the figures and should not be construed as essential features of the tubular member 500.

Fig. 1-2 are for illustrative purposes and show how the tubular member of the present invention can be used in an aerosol generating article, and how the aerosol generating article can be used with an aerosol generating device. In these figures, the details of the tubular element are not shown in detail.

In FIG. 1-2 show an example of an aerosol generating article 100 and an aerosol generating device 200. The aerosol generating article 100 has a proximal or mouthpiece end 101 and a distal end 103. In FIG. 2, a distal end 103 of the aerosol-generating article 100 is housed in a receptacle 220 of the aerosol-generating device 200. The aerosol-generating device 200 includes a wrapper 110 defining a receptacle 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 accommodate the aerosol generating article 100, preferably through an interference fit. Heating element 230 may include an electrically resistive heating component. In addition, device 200 includes a power supply 240 and control electronics 250 that interact to control 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 ingredient containing nicotine. Heating of the aerosol generating article 100 causes the tubular member 500 containing the active agent containing gel 124 to generate an aerosol that contains the active agent and can be transferred outward from the aerosol generating article 100 at the proximal end 101. The aerosol generating device 200 includes a housing 210 .

In FIG. 1-2 the heating mechanism is not shown exactly.

In some examples, the heating mechanism may operate by conductive heating, where heat is transferred from the heating element 230 of the aerosol generating device 200 to the aerosol generating article 100. This can readily be accomplished when the aerosol generating article 100 is located in the receiver 220 of the aerosol generating device 200, and the distal end 103 (preferably the end on which the tubular element 500 containing the gel is located) and thus the aerosol generating article 100 is in contact with the heating element 230 of the aerosol generating device 200. In specific examples, the heating element includes a heating blade 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 operates by induction, where the heating element emits electromagnetic radiation that is absorbed by the tubular element when the aerosol generating article 100 is placed in the receiver 220 of the aerosol generating device 200.

In FIG. 3a-13 illustrate an aerosol generating article or part of an aerosol generating article suitable for use with a tubular member of the present invention. Not all parts of the tubular element are necessarily shown or labeled in Figures 3a-13.

In FIG. 3a and 3b depict an embodiment of an aerosol generating article 100 including a wrapper 110 and a fluid guide 400. In FIG. 3a and 3b show a longitudinal sectional view of the aerosol generating article 100. In other words, the views in FIGS. 3a and Fig. 3b shows the aerosol generating article 100 cut in half in the longitudinal direction. 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 of FIG. 3a or 3b, whether it is the proximal end 101 or the distal end 103, it will be seen to be round. The tubular element 500 of FIG. 3a or Fig. 3b is also tubular. The tubular member 500 is a tubular component of the tubular aerosol generating article 100 according to the embodiments of FIGS. 3a and Fig. 3b. Looking at the entire end surface of the tubular member 500 in the embodiment of FIG. 3a or Fig. 3b, whether it is the proximal end or the distal end, it will be seen that the surface of the tubular member is circular. Since in FIG. 3a and Fig. 3b shows two-dimensional longitudinal section views, it is not possible to see the lateral curvature of the aerosol generating article and tubular member 600, along with other components. In FIG. 3a the proximal end of the tubular member 500 is not shown with a straight edge. In FIG. 3b shows the proximal end of the tubular member 500 as a straight line across the width of the aerosol generating article. The drawings are for illustrative purposes and to explain the present invention and may not be to scale. The tubular member 500 is shown in FIG. 3a and Fig. 3b to illustrate a tubular element in an aerosol generating article, however, features of the aerosol generating article 100 are optional for the tubular element embodiment shown in the figures and should not be considered essential features of the tubular element 500.

The fluid guide 400 has a proximal end 401, a distal end 403, and an internal longitudinal channel 430 extending from the distal end 403 to a proximal end 401. The internal longitudinal channel 430 has a first section 410 and a second section 420. The first section 410 defines a first section of the channel 430 , which extends from the distal end 413 of the first section 410 to the proximal end 411 of the first section 410. The second section 420 defines a second section of the channel 430, which extends from the distal end 423 of the second section 420 to the proximal end 421 of the second section 420. The first section 410 of the channel 430 has a constricted flow area 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, flowing through the first portion 410 of the internal longitudinal channel 430 when negative pressure is applied to the proximal end 101 of the aerosol generating article 100. the first section 410 of the inner longitudinal channel 430 tapers from the distal end 413 to the proximal end 411 of the first section 410. The second section 420 of the inner longitudinal channel 430 has a widening flow section from the distal end 423 to the proximal end 421 of the second section 420 of the fluid guide 400. In the second section 420 of the internal longitudinal channel 430, the fluid can be slowed down.

The wrapper 110 defines the open proximal end 101 of the aerosol generating article 100 and the distal end 103. At the distal end 103 of the aerosol generating article 100 is a tubular member 500 containing a gel containing the active substance (not shown). The aerosol generating article 100 includes an end plug 600 at its most 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 resistance to retraction such that fluid is displaced to enter the aerosol generating article 100 through the openings. 150 when negative pressure is applied to the proximal end 101 of the aerosol generating article 100. The aerosol generated or released by heating from the tubular element 500 containing the active substance may enter a cavity 140 in the aerosol generating article located downstream of the tubular element 500 to transfer through the internal longitudinal channel 430.

The holes 150 extend through the wrapper 110. At least one hole 150 communicates with an outer longitudinal channel 440 formed between the outer surface of the fluid guide 400 and the inner surface of the wrapper 110. Between the fluid guide 400 and the wrapper 110 at a location between the holes 150 and the proximal end 101 is sealed.

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

In FIG. 4 shows 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 inner longitudinal channel 430 from the distal end 403 to a proximal end 401. The inner longitudinal channel 430 has a first section 410, a second section 420, and a third section 435. The first section 410 is located between the second section 420 and the third 435 plots. The first section 410 defines a first section of the internal longitudinal channel 430 that extends from the distal end 413 of the first section 410 to the proximal end 411 of the first section 410. The second section 420 of the internal longitudinal channel 430 extends from the distal end 423 of the second section 420 to the proximal end 421 of the second section 420 A third portion 435 of the inner longitudinal channel 430 extends from a distal end 433 of the third portion to a proximal end 431 of the third portion. The third portion 435 has a substantially constant internal diameter from the proximal end 431 to the distal end 433. The first portion 410 of the inner longitudinal channel 430 has a narrowed flow area extending from the distal end 413 to the proximal end 411 of the first portion 410 to cause acceleration of the fluid passing through through this first portion 410 of the internal longitudinal channel 430 when negative pressure is applied to the proximal end 101 of the aerosol generating article 100. The flow area of the first portion 410 of the internal longitudinal channel 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 channel 420 430 has a widening flow section from the distal end 423 to the proximal end 421 of the second portion 420 of the internal longitudinal fluid channel 430. The second portion 420 of the inner longitudinal channel 430 is capable of slowing down the fluid as it passes from the far side to the near side.

Like product 100 shown in FIG. 3, the product shown in FIG. 4 includes a wrapper 110 that defines an open proximal end 101 and a distal end 103 with a high pull-resistance end cap 600. At the distal end 103 of the aerosol generating article is a tubular member 500 containing a gel containing the active substance. 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 channel 430.

Although not shown in FIG. 4, the aerosol generating article 100 includes at least one opening (such as the openings 150 shown in FIG. 3) that extends through the wrapper 110 and communicates with an outer longitudinal channel 440 formed between the outer surface of the fluid guide 400 and the inner surface wrapper 110. A seal is formed between the fluid guide 400 and the wrapper 110 at a location between said openings and the proximal end 101. Although the seal need not be fluid impermeable, it is preferable that the seal in this case have a high resistance to retraction or be somewhat impervious to displace fluid entering the openings 150 through the outer longitudinal channels towards the distal side towards the tubular element 500. A third section 435 of the fluid guide 400 extends along the length of the fluid guide 400 and the outer longitudinal channel 440 to provide additional spacing between the holes (which are not shown in FIG. 4 and may be located near the proximal end 401 of the inner longitudinal channel) and a tubular member 500 containing the active agent-containing gel such that the active agent-containing gel is unlikely to leak through the openings 150.

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 and flows through the outer longitudinal channels 440 into the cavity 140 and into 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 is then allowed to flow through the inner longitudinal channel 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 a third portion 435, a first portion 410, and then a 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 internal longitudinal channel 430, the fluid is slowed down. In alternative specific embodiments, the second portion 420 and the third portion 435 of the inner longitudinal channel 430 are optional. In the embodiment shown in the figures, the wrapper defines a proximal cavity 130 that is located between the proximal end 401 of the fluid guide 400 and the proximal end 101 of the article 100 and may serve to slow down the fluid before exiting the mouthpiece end 101.

In FIG. 5 and Fig. 6 depicts additional embodiments of aerosol generating articles 100 that include a wrap 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 inner longitudinal passage 430 extending from the distal end 403 to a proximal end 401. The inner longitudinal passage 430 has a first portion 410 and a third portion 435. A first portion 410 of the inner longitudinal passage 430 extends from the distal end 413 of the first section 410 to the proximal end 411 of the first section 410. The third section 435 of the inner longitudinal channel 430 extends from the proximal end 433 of the third section 435 to the distal end 431 of the third section 435. The third section 435 has a substantially constant internal diameter from the proximal end 433 to the far end 431.

In FIG. 5, the first channel section 410 of the inner longitudinal channel 430 has a substantially constant internal diameter from the distal end 413 to the proximal end 411 of the first section 410. The internal diameter of the inner longitudinal channel 430 in the first section 410 is less than the inner diameter of the inner longitudinal channel 430 in the third section. 435. The narrowed inner diameter of the internal longitudinal channel 430 in the first section 410 compared to the third section 435 makes it possible to accelerate the fluid as it flows from the third section 435 to the first section 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 channel 430 from the first segment 410A to the second segment 401B and from the second segment 410B to the third segment 410C, it is possible to accelerate the fluid as the flow area of the channel 430 narrows in a stepwise manner.

The first sections 410 in FIG. 5 and Fig. 6 are examples of a design that may be useful if the material used to form the first portion 410 is not an easily moldable material. For example, the first section 410 or the segments 410A, 410B, 410C of the first section 410 may be made of cellulose acetate tow. In contrast, the first portions 410 of the fluid guide 400 shown in FIG. 3 and Fig. 4 provide examples of a design that may be useful if the material used to form the first portion 410 is moldable, for example, if the first portion is 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 a high pull-resistance end cap 600. In these examples, a tubular member 500 containing an active agent-containing gel 124 is located at a distal end 103 of the aerosol-generating article 100. The aerosol released upon heating from the tubular member 500 containing an active-agent-containing gel 124 may enter a cavity 140 in the generating unit. aerosol product 100 for transfer through the internal longitudinal channel 4 30.

Although not shown in FIG. 5 and Fig. 6, the aerosol generating article 100 includes at least one opening (such as the openings 150 shown in FIG. 3) that extends through the wrapper 110 and communicates with an outer longitudinal channel 440 formed between the outer surface of the fluid guide 400 and the inner surface wrapper 110. A seal is formed between the fluid guide 400 and the wrapper 110 at a location located between the openings 150 and the proximal end 101. This promotes displacement of the fluid entering through the openings 150 along the outer longitudinal channels 440 in the tubular element 500 or towards the distal end. The third portion 435 of the inner longitudinal channel 430, among other things, serves to increase the length of the fluid guide 400 and the outer longitudinal channel 440 to provide additional distance between the holes 150 (which are not shown in Fig. 5 and Fig. 6 and can be located near the proximal end of the outer longitudinal channel 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 and flows through the outer longitudinal channels 440 into the cavity 140 and into the tubular member 500 containing the gel 124 containing the active substance, where the fluid can capture material from the gel by heating the tubular member 500. The fluid then flows through the inner longitudinal passage 430 and through the proximal end 101. As fluid flows through the inner longitudinal passage 430, the fluid flows through the third portion 435 and then through the first portion 410 of the aerosol generating article 100. As fluid flows into the first portion 410 of the inner longitudinal channel 430 is allowed to accelerate in the inner longitudinal channel 430 because the inner diameter of the inner longitudinal channel 430 in the first portion 410 is smaller than that in the third portion 435. In the aerosol generating article 100 shown in FIG. 6, the fluid is allowed to 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 that is located between the proximal end 401 of the fluid guide 400 and the proximal end 101 of the aerosol generating article 100 and can serve to retard fluid that exits the internal longitudinal channel 430 at the proximal end 401 of the fluid guide 400 before exiting the near end of 101.

In FIG. 7-8 depicts 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 plug has a high resistance. retraction. On the proximal side of the end cap 600 in the aerosol generating article 100, a tubular member 500 containing a gel containing the active substance is disposed. When heated, the tubular element 500 can create an aerosol that enters the cavity 140 and onto the proximal side of the tubular element 500.

In FIG. 7 is a side view of a tubular aerosol generating article 100. When looking at the end surface of either the proximal end 101 or the distal end 103, the end surface will be seen to be circular. In FIG. 7 is a two-dimensional drawing, and therefore it is impossible to see the curvature of the tubular aerosol generating article. In FIG. 8 is a partially cutaway perspective view of the same embodiment as the embodiment shown and described using FIG. 7. It can be seen that the surface of the far end, although partially closed, is circular. It can be seen that the surface of the proximal end 101, although partially cut out, is also circular. In FIG. 8 it can also 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 in this embodiment.

At least one of the openings 150 communicates with at least one outer longitudinal channel 440 formed between the fluid guide 400 and the wrapper 110 and between the side walls 450. The fluid guide 400 includes a rim 460 that is pressed against the inner surface of the wrapper 110 with the formation of a compaction. Said seal is formed between the mouthpiece end 101 and the holes 150.

By applying negative pressure to the proximal end 101, a fluid, such as air, is allowed to enter the openings 150 and flow through the outer longitudinal channels 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 flows through the inner longitudinal channel 430 extending through the fluid guide 400, enters the cavity 130 formed by the wrapper 110, and then flows (and exits) through the proximal end 101 of the aerosol generating article 100. The inner longitudinal channel 430 of the fluid guide 400 fluid may be configured in any suitable manner, for example as shown in FIG. 3-6.

In FIG. 9-10 show an embodiment of an aerosol generating article 100 that includes a mouthpiece 170 forming a portion of a wrapper 110 and a fluid guide 400 in the aerosol generating article 100. The aerosol generating article 100 includes a tubular member 500 that forms a distal end 103 of the aerosol generating article 100 and is formed by a portion of the wrapper 110. The tubular member 500 is configured to be positioned on a distal portion of the mouthpiece 170, for example, by an interference fit. A tubular member containing a gel 124 containing an active agent (not shown) may be located at the distal end 103. The aerosol generating article 100 includes an end plug 600 at its distal end 103. The end plug 600 has a high resistance to retraction.

In FIG. 9 shows a side view of the aerosol generating article 100 with a partial recess. If one looks at the entire end surface of either the proximal end 101 or the distal end 103, it will be seen that the end surface is circular. In FIG. 9 is a two-dimensional drawing, and therefore it is impossible to see the curvature of the tubular aerosol generating article. In FIG. 10 is a partially cutaway perspective view of the same partially recessed aerosol generating article 100 as shown and described using FIG. 9. It can be seen that the end surface of the distal end, although partially closed, is circular. It can be seen that the end surface of the proximal end 101, although partially recessed, is also circular. In addition, in FIG. 10, it can be seen that the tubular element 500 has a tubular shape. In addition, in FIG. 10, it can be seen that the end cap 600 is also tubular in shape in this embodiment.

The fluid guide 400 includes an internal longitudinal channel 430 (not shown) that contains a fluid accelerating portion and which may include a fluid decelerating portion. A seal is formed between the wrapper 110 and the fluid guide 400 because the wrapper 110 and the fluid guide 400 are formed from a single piece. An opening 150 is provided in the wrapper 110 and communicates with an outer longitudinal channel 640 that is formed at least in part by the inner surface of the wrapper 110. A portion of the outer longitudinal channel 640 is generally formed between the inner surface of the wrapper 110 and the area outside the fluid guide 400. The outer longitudinal channel 640 extends less than the entire circumference of the article 100. In this embodiment, the outer longitudinal channel 640 extends approximately 50 percent of the circumference of the aerosol generating article 100. The outer longitudinal channel 640 directs fluid, such as air, away from the opening 150 towards the tubular member 500 (not shown) near the distal end 103.

When negative pressure is applied to the proximal end 101, a fluid, such as ambient air, enters the aerosol generating article 100 through the opening 150. The fluid flows through the outer longitudinal channel 640 towards the tubular element 500, which contains the gel 124 containing the active substance, and is located at the distal end 103. The fluid then flows through the inner longitudinal channel 430 of the fluid guide 400, where the fluid is accelerated and, if necessary, decelerated. Fluid, such as air, can then exit the proximal end 101 of the aerosol generating article 100.

In FIG. 11 shows an image of a fluid guide 400 made from polyetheretherketone (PEEK) by computer numerical control (CNC) machining. The fluid guide 400 shown in FIG. 11, has a length of 2 5 millimeters, an outer diameter at the proximal end of 6.64 millimeters and an outer diameter at the distal end of 6.29 millimeters. The outer diameter at the distal end is the diameter of the distal end relative to the base of the side walls. The fluid guide 400 has 12 outer longitudinal channels 640 formed around its outer surface, each side wall having a substantially semicircular cross-section. The outer longitudinal channels 640 have a radius of 0.75 millimeters and a length of 20 millimeters. The fluid guide 400 has an internal longitudinal channel 430 (not shown) containing three sections: a first section (air acceleration section), a second section (air deceleration section) located downstream or on the proximal side of the first section, and a third section. , located upstream or on the far side relative to the first section. The third portion of the inner longitudinal channel 430 of the fluid guide 400 extends from the distal end 103 of the aerosol generating article 100 and has an internal diameter at the distal end of 5.09 millimeters, which tapers to a diameter of 4.83 millimeters at the proximal end of the first portion of the inner longitudinal channel 430. The length of the first section of the internal longitudinal channel is 15 millimeters. The first portion of the inner longitudinal channel 430 extends from the distal end at the proximal end of the third portion to the proximal end. The first portion of the internal longitudinal channel 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 section of the internal longitudinal channel is 5.5 millimeters. A second portion of the internal longitudinal channel 430 extends from a distal end at the proximal end of the first portion to a proximal end at the proximal end of the article. The second section of the inner longitudinal channel 430 has at its distal end an internal diameter of 1 millimeter equal to the inner diameter at the proximal end of the first section. The inner diameter of the second section increases at a decreasing rate (curvilinearly) until the proximal end has an inner diameter of 5 millimeters. The length of the second section is 4.5 millimeters. Accordingly, fluid drawn through the inner channel of the fluid guide from the distal end to the proximal end enters a chamber with a substantially constant internal diameter (third portion), a narrowed section configured to accelerate the fluid (first portion), and an expanded a section configured to slow down the fluid (second section). It has been found that by providing such an internal longitudinal channel 430 for the aerosol released from the heated tubular member 500 (not shown), it is possible to control the aerosol volume and droplet size so that a satisfactory aerosol is released. In FIG. 11 shows a side view of the tubular fluid guide 400. In FIG. 11 is a two-dimensional drawing, and therefore it is impossible to see the curvature of the tubular shape of the fluid guide 400 in this embodiment. When looking at the end surface of the fluid guide 400 of this embodiment, it will be seen that the surface is circular.

In FIG. 12 shows an image of an assembled aerosol generating article 100. The aerosol generating article 100 includes a wrapper 110 into which a fluid guide 400 of FIG. 11. The wrapper shown in FIG. 12 is generally a cylindrical paper tube having a length of 45 millimeters. One end of the wrap 110 is distal and is designed to provide support for the tubular member 500 (not shown). The proximal portion of the outer surface of the fluid guide 400 over the outer longitudinal channels has a diameter of 6.64 millimeters. This diameter is substantially equal to the inside diameter of the wrap such that an interference fit seal is formed between the proximal portion of the outer surface of the fluid guide 400 and the inner surface of the wrap 110. The distal portion of the outer surface of the fluid guide 400 along the length of the outer longitudinal channels may have a diameter slightly smaller than the diameter of the proximal portion of the outer surface of the fluid guide so that the fluid guide 400 can be easily inserted into the wrapper 110 up to the proximal area of the outer surface, resulting in an interference fit. In FIG. 12 is a side view of the aerosol generating article 100. FIG. 12 is a two-dimensional drawing, and therefore it is impossible to see the curvature of the tubular shape of the aerosol generating article 100 in this embodiment. When looking at the end surface of the aerosol generating article 100 according to this embodiment, it will be seen as circular.

In FIG. 13 shows an aerosol generating article 100 fabricated in conjunction with a tubular member 500 containing a gel 124, which is further shown in FIG. 14, 15 and 16. In FIG. 13 is a longitudinal sectional view of the aerosol generating article 100. FIG. 13 is a two-dimensional drawing, and therefore it is impossible to see the curvature of the tubular shape of the fluid guide 100 and its components, such as the tubular member 500, in this embodiment. If the entire end surface of the aerosol generating article 100 of this embodiment is viewed, it will be seen that the surface is circular. Likewise, when looking at the entire end surface of the tubular member 500 of this embodiment, it will be seen that the surface is circular.

The aerosol generating article 100 of FIG. 13 includes four elements arranged in coaxial alignment: a high pull resistance (RTD) end plug 600 at the distal end 103; a tubular member 500 that contains a gel 124; fluid guide 400; and a mouthpiece 170 at the proximal end 101. These four elements are arranged in series and surrounded by a wrapper 110 to form an aerosol generating article 100. (In a similar but alternative embodiment, a cavity 140 is present between the fluid guide 400 and the tubular element 500.) Aerosol generating article 100 has a proximal end or mouthpiece end 101 and a distal end 103 located at the opposite end of the aerosol generating article 100 from the mouthpiece 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 and openings 150 (not shown, but similar to those described for the examples of FIGS. 1-10) when negative pressure is applied to the proximal end 101.

An end plug 600 is located at the farthest end 103 of the aerosol generating article 100.

In this example, tubular member 500 is located immediately downstream of end plug 600 in the direction of flow and abuts 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 shown in FIG. 14, 15 and 16, the tubular member 500 is a cellulose acetate tube 122 containing a gel 124 in its core; for example, its core is filled with gel 124. In this example, gel 124 contains the active substances of nicotine and an aerosol forming agent. Other examples similar to this example contain different active substances or contain no active substances. 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 sectional view coplanar with the central axis of the tubular member 500, and FIG. 16 is a 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 (FIG. 13) at the distal end 103 of the aerosol generating article 100 so that the heating element of the aerosol generating device 200 is allowed to penetrate the tubular element 500, the heating element in this example penetrating through the end plug 600 (at the farthest end 103 of the aerosol generating article 100) to contact the tubular element 500 that contains the gel 124. Thus, the heating element contacts the gel 124 or is located in close proximity to the gel 124.

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

Said tubular member 500 may further comprise a plasticizer.

The fluid guide 400 is located downstream of the tubular member 500 and abuts the tubular member 500. (In a similar but alternative specific example, such as FIG. 24, there is a cavity between the fluid guide 400 and the tubular member 500 such that that the fluid guide does not contact the tubular element). In use, material released from the tubular member 500 containing the gel 124 flows along the fluid guide 400 toward the proximal end 101 of the aerosol generating article 100.

In the example of FIG. 13, the mouthpiece 170 is located downstream immediately after the fluid guide 400 and abuts the fluid guide 400. In the example of FIG. 13, the mouthpiece 170 contains a conventional cellulose acetate tow filter with low filtration efficiency.

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

The tubular member 500 may be made using an extrusion process, for example, as shown in FIG. 17. Made from cellulose acetate 122, the longitudinal sides of the tubular member 500 may be formed by extruding cellulose acetate material along the molding head 184 and around a mandrel 180 that extends rearward relative to the direction of movement T of the extruded cellulose acetate material. The rear projection of the mandrel 180 is in the form of a pin and is a cylindrical element having an outer diameter of from 3 millimeters to 7 millimeters and a length of from 55 millimeters to 100 millimeters. (For clarity, this is not illustrated to scale in the figures.)

In this example, the cellulose acetate material 122 is thermally cured under the action of steam S, which is pressurized to greater than 1 bar.

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

The combined cylindrical rod is cut into pieces along its length to form individual tubular elements 500.

The combined cylindrical rod is formed using a hot extrusion process in this example. The combined cylindrical rod is allowed to cool or is subjected to a cooling process before undergoing length-separation processing. 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 tubular member 500 with a core filled with gel 124. However, alternatively, in other examples, the longitudinal sides of cellulose acetate 122 may have any shape with a core (or more one core) for receiving the gel 124, which extends generally along the tubular rod. In alternative specific examples, the core is filled with gel-loaded porous media 125.

In this example, the longitudinal sides 122 made of cellulose acetate in the tubular element have a minimum thickness of 0.6 millimeters.

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

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

The gel 124 may be heated to a temperature higher than room temperature before being injected into the mandrel 180. The mandrel 180 may be thermally conductive (e.g., a metal mandrel) and externally supplied with some heat (e.g., from steam S) supplied for thermal cure. cellulose acetate. This allows thermal energy to be transferred to the gel, and heating the gel allows its viscosity to be reduced and its extrusion promoted.

In an alternative specific example, as shown in FIG. 19, the mandrel 180 is configured to reduce the heating of the gel 124 prior to extrusion. In some of these specific examples, the mandrel 180 is made of a substantially thermally insulating material. Alternatively or additionally, the mandrel 180 is cooled, for example, by a liquid-cooled jacket 18 6 (eg, a water-cooled jacket) having a circulating layer of cooled liquid that forms a thermal barrier between externally supplied heat (eg, steam S) and the gel 124 Maintaining the gel 124 at a low temperature allows the gel 124 to form within the cellulose acetate 122 longitudinal sides of the tubular member 500.

In this example, the tubular members 500 are formed by cutting the combination rod along the gaps 128, which helps prevent contamination of the cutting equipment by the gel 124 and thus improves cutting performance. The combination rod in this example is cooled before cutting during a stop period until it reaches a suitable temperature for cutting. Once cut, the cut-to-length portions, if cut along the gaps 128, have hollow ends, which in some examples are trimmed to form a tubular member prior to installation into the aerosol generating article 100. In this example, said portions of gel 124 are 60 millimeters in length and are separated 10mm gaps. 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.

As an alternative to the examples illustrated herein, in specific examples, extrusion of the gel 124 may be performed at room temperature. Additionally, in alternative specific examples, cellulose acetate is replaced by other materials, such as polylactic acid.

In FIG. 19, the mandrel is cylindrical in shape to facilitate the production of the tubular member.

In FIG. 20 shows 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

heating element 230. As shown in FIG. 20, a heating element 230 is installed inside the chamber for housing the aerosol generating article 100 in the aerosol generating device 200. In use, the aerosol generating article 100 is inserted into the chamber for housing the aerosol generating article in the aerosol generating device 200, so that 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 heating blade.

The aerosol generating device 200 includes a power source and electronic circuitry that enables activation of the heating element 230. Such activation may be manual or it may occur automatically in response to negative pressure applied to the proximal end of the aerosol generating article 100 inserted into the housing chamber. of the aerosol generating article in the aerosol generating device 200. The aerosol generating device is provided with a plurality of holes to allow air to flow to the aerosol generating article 100, and the direction of flow of fluid, such as air, in the aerosol generating device 200 is shown by arrows in FIG. 20. Fluid is then allowed to 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 element 500 of the aerosol generating article 100 comes out of the gel. When negative pressure is applied to the proximal end 101 of the aerosol generating article 100, said material from the tubular member 500 is drawn downstream through the aerosol generating article 100, specifically, it is drawn through the fluid guide 400 towards the proximal end and exits the proximal end 101 of the aerosol generating article 100. aerosol product 100.

As the aerosol passes further downstream through the aerosol generating article 100, the temperature of the aerosol decreases due to the transfer of thermal energy from the aerosol to the fluid guide 400. In this example, as 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 as it exits the fluid guide 400 is 40 degrees Celsius. This results in the formation of aerosol droplets.

In the illustrated example of FIG. 20, tubular member 500 contains cellulose acetate forming the longitudinal sides 122 of a cylindrical rod, with gel 124 in the core or central portion of tubular member 500. Alternatively, in other specific examples, the longitudinal sides of tubular member 500 may be made of 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 provided with 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 includes more than one core. In certain embodiments, the tubular member contains more than one gel 124. Not all components of the tubular member 500 of FIG. 14, 15 and 16 are necessarily shown or designated.

In FIG. 21 shows a tubular member 500 containing a plurality of gels 524A, 524B extending along the axial length of the core of the tubular member 500, as shown in cross-section in FIG. 21. The tubular member 500 in this embodiment includes cellulose acetate longitudinal sides 522, 622, 722. Not all components of the tubular member 500 are necessarily shown or designated in FIG. 21.

Multiple gels 524A, 524B may be extruded into cellulose acetate 522 through separate channels in a mandrel (not shown) to form the core of tubular member 500. The use of gels 124 with different volatilities provides the ability to help optimize delivery of the active ingredient.

In the example shown in FIG. 22, the tubular member 500 includes cellulose acetate longitudinal sides 622, and the tubular member 500 further includes a plurality of cores 624A, 624B, 624C, as shown in FIG. 22.

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

In this particular example, multiple cores are equipped with different gels 624A, 624B, 624C, the gels containing different actives, such as different nicotine and flavorings, as shown in FIG. 22. The use of gels with different volatilities provides the opportunity to help optimize the delivery of the active ingredient, in particular delivery over time in the heating cycle of the aerosol generating device.

In other specific examples (not shown), the plurality of cores 624A, 624B, 624C are all equipped with the same gel 124 (not shown). The use of multiple cores helps optimize the air flow characteristics through the tubular element 500.

Said plurality of cores may be formed by a mandrel (not shown) with a corresponding plurality of projections extending rearward relative to the direction of movement T of the cellulose acetate material being extruded. Extrusion of the gel is possible through appropriate channels in a plurality of rearwardly extending protrusions of the mandrel.

As shown in FIG. 14, 15, 16, the tubular member 500 includes longitudinal sides made of cellulose acetate 122, the core of which is filled with gel 124. However, as an alternative, in specific examples in combination with other features, the core of the tubular member 500 is only partially filled with gel 124 within cross section perpendicular to the axial length. This has the advantage of promoting axial air flow 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 sides 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 embodiment of FIG. 23, the tubular member 500 has a hollow channel 72 6 extending axially along its length and formed by using a mandrel (not shown) with a central rod that extends further downstream and from which the gel 724 is extruded into the tube during manufacture, with formation of a hollow channel inside the extruded gel 724.

Although in Fig. 20 shows an aerosol generating article 100 that is used with a blade-shaped 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 otherwise heated.

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

In the example of FIG. 24, the 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 to distal. In this example, the tubular element 500 contains a gel 824 containing the active substance and further contains a current collector (both not shown). In this example, the current collector is a single strip of aluminum located centrally 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), the portion of the aerosol generating article 100 containing the tubular element 500 is positioned in the vicinity of 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 to the proximal end 101 of the aerosol generating article 100. Fluid, such as air, enters the outer longitudinal channels 834 through holes 150 (not shown) to move into the cavity 700 and then into the tubular element 500, where the fluid mixes with the gel 824 and entrains the active substances before returning into the cavity and then through an internal longitudinal channel (not shown) of the fluid guide 400 before exiting the proximal end 101. In this example, the longitudinal sides 822 of the tubular member 500 contain paper. The aerosol generating article includes an outer wrap 850. This is the aerosol generating article 100 shown in FIG. 24 and described above may be used with the aerosol generating device 200 shown in FIG. 1-2 and described above. 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 many different combinations of features including, but not limited to, gel 124, gel-loaded porous media 125, active agent, internal longitudinal members, void space, fill material (preferably porous), and wrapper. The desired aerosol can be created through a specific combination and arrangement of its ingredients.

For example:

In FIG. 25 shows an example in which the tubular member 500 includes: a wrapper 110; a second tubular member 115 containing gel 124, wherein the second tubular member 115 comprises a paper wrapper and is centrally located along the longitudinal axis of the tubular member 500; and a porous filler material 132 disposed between the second tubular member 115 and the wrapper 110. The porous filler material 132 assists in keeping 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 shows an example in which the tubular member 500 includes: a wrapper 110; a second tubular member 115 comprising a gel 124 and a paper wrapper, the second tubular member located centrally along the longitudinal axis of the tubular member 500, and the gel 124 located between the second tubular member 115 and the wrapper 110. The gel located between the second tubular member 115 and the wrapper 110 , assists in keeping the second tubular member 115 centered within the tubular member 500. The gel 124 in this example is located within the central portion of the second tubular member 115 and between the second tubular member 115 and the wrapper 110.

In FIG. 27 shows an example in which the tubular member 500 includes: a wrapper 110; an inner longitudinal element containing a gel-loaded porous medium 125, the inner longitudinal element containing a gel-loaded porous medium 125 and located centrally along the longitudinal axis of the tubular element 500; and a gel 124 disposed between the inner longitudinal member containing the gel-loaded porous media 125 and the wrapper 110. The gel 124 is capable of assisting in holding the inner longitudinal member containing the gel-loaded porous media 124 centrally located within the tubular member 500. In this example, the inner the longitudinal member is cross-shaped in its longitudinal section, and portions of the inner longitudinal member contact the inner surface of the wrapper 110. In other examples, the inner longitudinal members of other shapes and sizes may be used so that they may not necessarily contact the inner surface of the wrapper 110. In other specific examples, In the examples, internal longitudinal elements made of other materials may also be used.

In FIG. 28 shows an example in which the tubular member 500 includes: a wrapper 110; a second tubular member 115 containing gel 124, wherein the second tubular member 115 comprises a paper wrapper and is centrally located along the longitudinal axis of the tubular member 500; and a gel-loaded porous media 124 disposed between the second tubular member 115 and the wrapper 110. In this example, the gel-loaded porous media 124 assists in keeping the second tubular member 115 centered within the tubular member 500.

In FIG. 29 shows an example in which the tubular member 500 includes a wrapper 110; gel-loaded porous medium 125; and a gel 124, wherein a gel-laden porous medium 125 is located adjacent to the inner surface of the wrapper 110 and around the gel 124. In this example, both of the gel 124 and the gel-laden porous medium 125 are present. The gel-laden porous medium 125 covers the inner surface of the wrapper, although it may initially gel-loaded porous media 125 may be formed and may then be wrapped by wrapper 110. In this example, gel-loaded porous media 125 surrounds gel 124, which is held centrally along the longitudinal axis of tubular member 500. The gel-loaded porous media is capable of assisting gel retention. 125 along the central position.

In FIG. 30 shows an example in which the tubular member 500 includes: a wrapper 110; a second tubular member 115 comprising a gel-loaded porous medium 125 and a paper wrapper and centrally located along the longitudinal axis of the tubular member 500; and a porous filler material 132 disposed between the second tubular member 115 and the wrapper 110. The porous filler material 132 assists in keeping the second tubular member centered within the tubular member 500. The gel-loaded porous media 125, in this example, is located within the central portion of the second tubular member 115. In this example, the paper wrapper of the second tubular member 115 surrounds the gel-loaded porous media.

In FIG. 31 shows an example in which the tubular member 500 includes: a wrapper 110; a second tubular member 115 comprising a gel-loaded porous media 125 centrally located along the longitudinal axis of the tubular member 500 and further comprising a paper wrapper, the gel-loaded porous media 125 positioned between the second tubular member 115 and the wrapper 110. In this example, the gel-loaded porous media 125 is located at two locations within the second tubular member 115 and between the second tubular member and the wrapper 110. They may contain the same or different porous media, gel, or active agent.

In FIG. 32 shows an example in which the tubular member 500 includes: a wrapper 110; a second tubular member 115 comprising a porous filler 132, the second tubular member 115 being centrally located along the longitudinal axis of the tubular member 500, the second tubular member 115 further comprising a paper wrapper; and a gel-loaded porous media 125 disposed between the second tubular member 115 and the wrapper 110. The gel-loaded porous media is capable of helping to keep the second tubular member 115 centered along the longitudinal axis of the tubular member 500. In this example, the gel-loaded porous media 125 is adjacent to the inner surface of the wrapper 110. A gel-loaded porous medium 125 coats the interior surface of the wrapper 110.

In FIG. 33 shows an example in which the tubular member 500 includes: a wrapper 110; a second tubular member 115 comprising a gel-loaded porous medium 125, the second tubular member 115 being centrally located along the longitudinal axis of the tubular member 500, the second tubular member 115 further comprising a paper wrapper; gel 124 disposed between the second tubular member 115 and the wrapper 110. In this example, the gel 124 is capable of helping to keep the second tubular member 115 centered along the longitudinal axis of the tubular member 500. In this example, the gel 124 is adjacent to the inner surface of the wrapper 110. In this In one example, the gel-loaded porous media 124 is centrally located in a second tubular member 115 surrounded by a paper wrapper of the second tubular members 115.

In FIG. 34 shows an example in which the tubular member 500 includes: a wrapper 110; an inner longitudinal member containing a gel-loaded porous medium 125; an inner longitudinal member containing a gel-loaded porous medium 125 that is cylindrical and centrally located along the longitudinal axis of the tubular member 500; gel 124 disposed between the inner longitudinal member containing the gel-loaded porous media 125 and the wrapper 110. The gel 124 provides the ability to help keep the inner longitudinal member containing the gel-loaded porous media 124 centered within the tubular member 500. In this example, the inner longitudinal member has a cylindrical shape in its longitudinal section and is held separate from the inner surface of the wrapper 110 by gel 124. In other examples, the inner longitudinal members of other shapes and sizes and from other materials may be used.

In FIG. 35, 36 and 37 show a tubular member 500 containing a gel-loaded filament 125. In this example, the gel-loaded filaments 125 extend in the longitudinal direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the tubular member 500. This has the advantage of forming an aerosol channel extending lengthwise through tubular element. In this example, there is a second tubular member 304 with an inner wrap 115 that is centrally located within the tubular member 500. A second tubular member 304 is also located longitudinally within the tubular member 500. Gel-loaded threads 125 are located between the second tubular member 304 and the inner surface of the wrap. 110. In the example shown in FIG. 35, 36 and 37, the gel-loaded threads extend substantially along the entire longitudinal length of the tubular element. This has the advantage of creating channels along the length of the tubular element for the passage of the aerosol.

In FIG. 38 also shows a tubular member 500 containing a gel-loaded thread 125. In this example, three second tubular members 304 are present, and the gel-loaded thread 125 is located between the three second tubular elements, and it is also located between these second tubular elements on one side and the inside surface of the wrapper 110 on the other side.

In FIG. 39 shows a tubular member containing gel-loaded strands 125, wherein the tubular member 500 contains more than one gel 124. In this example, the gel-loaded strands 125 are comprised of equal parts strands 125A loaded with one type of gel 124 and strands 125B loaded with another type of gel 124. type.

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 make it easier to understand certain terms that are frequently used in this document.

As used herein and in the appended claims, the singular number includes embodiments containing plural references unless the content clearly indicates otherwise.

As used in this specification and the appended claims, the conjunction “or” is generally used in its meaning to include “and/or” unless the content clearly indicates 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 without limitation.” It should be understood that the expressions “consisting essentially of”, “consisting of”, etc. belong to the category “containing” and the like.

The words “preferred” and “preferably” refer to those embodiments of the present invention that may provide certain benefits under certain conditions. However, other embodiments may also be preferred under the same or different conditions. Moreover, the inclusion of one or more preferred embodiments does not mean that other embodiments are not applicable and is not intended to exclude other embodiments from the scope of the invention, including the claims.

Any direction mentioned in this document, 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 in this document may be used in a variety of directions and orientations.

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

Examples

1. A tubular element comprising a first longitudinal channel and further comprising a gel-loaded thread, said gel containing an active substance.

2. A tubular element according to example 1, containing a plurality of gel-loaded threads.

3. Tubular element according to example 1 or 2, containing more than one gel.

4. A tubular member according to Example 2, wherein the gel-loaded thread contains a different gel from the gel in the other gel-loaded thread.

5. A tubular member according to the previous example, wherein the active substance is a flavoring agent, or a pharmaceutical agent, or nicotine, or an aerosolizing agent, or a combination of any or all of the following: a flavoring agent, a pharmaceutical agent, an aerosolizing agent, or nicotine.

6. A tubular element according to any previous example, further comprising a current collector (susceptor) to assist heat transfer.

7. A tubular element according to any of the previous examples, containing a wrapper.

8. Tubular element according to example 7, in which the wrapper contains a current collector to facilitate heat transfer.

9. A tubular element according to any one of examples 7 or 8, in which the wrapper is rigid.

10. A tubular member according to any one of Examples 7, 8 or 9, wherein the wrapper is water resistant.

11. A tubular element according to any of the previous examples, further comprising a gel-loaded porous medium.

12. A tubular element according to any of the previous examples, further comprising a second tubular element located longitudinally within the first longitudinal channel.

13. An article containing a tubular element according to any of examples 1-12.

14. Method for manufacturing a tubular element containing:

the first longitudinal channel, a tubular element, further contains a gel-loaded thread, and said gel contains an active substance;

the method includes the steps of:

- placing the material for the tubular element around the mandrel, which forms the tubular element;

- feeding the gel-loaded thread from the channel inside the mandrel so that the gel-loaded thread is located inside the tubular element.

15. The method of manufacturing a tubular member according to Example 14, further comprising the step of feeding a plurality of gel-loaded filaments from a channel within the mandrel.

Claims (19)

1. A tubular element for use with an aerosol generating article, wherein the tubular element has a longitudinal length and includes a first wrapper defining a first longitudinal channel; wherein the tubular element further comprises a plurality of porous threads loaded with gel, said plurality of threads extending in a longitudinal direction parallel to the longitudinal length of the tubular element; wherein said gel contains a substance for forming an aerosol and an active substance; wherein said gel contains from 60 percent to 95 percent by weight glycerol; And wherein said active substance contains nicotine. 2. The tubular element according to claim 1, further comprising at least one second tubular element containing a second wrapper, with at least one second tubular element located in the longitudinal direction inside the first longitudinal channel; and wherein said plurality of threads are located between at least one second tubular element and the inner surface of said first wrapper. 3. A tubular member according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the first wrapper contains paper. 4. A tubular member as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first wrapper is hydrophobic. 5. The tubular element of claim 4, wherein the first wrapper contains hydrophobic groups covalently bonded to the outside of the wrapper. 6. Tubular element according to any one of paragraphs. 4 or 5, wherein the first wrapper contains hydrophobic groups on the inside of the first wrapper. 7. A tubular member as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, comprising a distal end and a proximal end, wherein an end cap is located at the distal end of the tubular member. 8. The tubular element of claim 7, wherein the end cap of the tubular element is fluid impermeable. 9. A tubular member as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first wrapper is rigid paper or paperboard with a density greater than 60 grams per square meter. 10. Tubular element according to any of the previous paragraphs, additionally containing a susceptor. 11. Tubular element according to claim 10, in which the susceptor is located in the longitudinal direction inside the tubular element. 12. Tubular element according to any one of paragraphs. 10 or 11, in which the susceptor is located adjacent to a plurality of threads loaded with gel. 13. A tubular member as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the gel-loaded threads extend along the longitudinal length of the tubular member. 14. A tubular member as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the plurality of gel-loaded threads comprise cotton. 15. Tubular element according to any one of paragraphs. 1-13, in which the plurality of gel-loaded threads comprise a paper or acetate tow.