WO2012156703A1

WO2012156703A1 - A filter for a smoking article, a smoking article and a method of manufacturing

Info

Publication number: WO2012156703A1
Application number: PCT/GB2012/051047
Authority: WO
Inventors: David Morrison Russell; Wilbert Paulus Johanna Maria SCHOENMAKERS; Paul Barry FARENDEN; Darren Seymour; Michael Lee Simpson; Mark Bailey
Original assignee: British American Tobacco Investments Ltd; British American Tobacco Co Ltd
Current assignee: British American Tobacco Investments Ltd
Priority date: 2011-05-13
Filing date: 2012-05-11
Publication date: 2012-11-22
Anticipated expiration: 2013-11-13
Also published as: GB201108043D0; AR086374A1

Abstract

A filter for a smoking article, a smoking article and a method of manufacturing A filter (20) for a smoking article (10) comprises an additive release component (15) from which an additive can be released by the application of pressure. The additive release component (15) is located in a periphery of the filter (20). A reaction surface is arranged adjacent to the additive release component (15). The filter (20) is configured such that the additive release component (15) can be radially urged against the reaction surface to release the additive.

Description

A filter for a smoking article, a smoking article and a method of manufacturing

Technical Field

Embodiments of the invention relate to a filter for a smoking article, a smoking article and a method of manufacturing a filter.

Background

As used herein, the term "smoking article" includes smokeable products such as cigarettes, cigars and cigarillos whether based on tobacco, tobacco derivatives, expanded tobacco, reconstituted tobacco or tobacco substitutes and also heat- not-burn products (i.e. products in which flavour is generated from a smoking material by the application of heat without causing combustion of the material). Typically, smoking articles are is provided with filters removing constituents from the gaseous flow.

It is known to provide a frangible additive release component containing water or a flavourant such as menthol inside the filter of a smoking article. By applying pressure to the outside of the filter, the smoker may break the additive release component therein and release the flavourant.

Individual breakable additive release components having a flavourant therein and methods of manufacture thereof are known per se and are described in, for example, WO 2006/117697.

Summary

An embodiment of the invention provides, in a first aspect, a filter for a smoking article comprising: an additive release component from which an additive can be released by the application of pressure, wherein the additive release component is located in a periphery of the filter, and a reaction surface arranged adjacent to the additive release component, wherein the filter is configured such that the additive release component can be radially urged against the reaction surface to release the additive. Thus, the additive release components are easily ruptured by a user against the reaction surface.

An embodiment of the invention provides, in a second aspect, smoking article comprising: an additive release component from which an additive can be released by the application of pressure, wherein the additive release component is located in a periphery of the smoking article, and a reaction surface arranged adjacent to the additive release component, wherein the smoking article is configured such that the additive release component can be radially urged against the reaction surface to release the additive.

An embodiment of the invention provides, in a third aspect, a method of manufacturing a filter for a smoking article, comprising: providing an additive release component from which an additive can be released by the application of pressure, locating the additive release component in a periphery of the smoking article, and providing a reaction surface arranged adjacent to the additive release component, and forming the smoking article such that the additive release component can be radially urged against the reaction surface to release the additive.

Brief Description of the Drawings

Various embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure l shows a perspective view of a first embodiment of the invention;

Figure 2 shows a cut-away perspective view of the first embodiment of the invention; Figure 3 shows an enlarged side elevation view of the first embodiment of the invention in a first state;

Figure 4 shows an enlarged side elevation view of the first embodiment of the invention in a second state; Figure 5 shows a perspective view of a part of a second embodiment of the invention in a first state;

Figure 6 shows a side elevation section view of filters according to the first embodiment of the invention during manufacture;

Figure 7 shows a side elevation section view of a filter according to the first embodiment of the invention during manufacture; Figure 8 shows a perspective view of a filter according to the first embodiment of the invention during an alternative method of manufacture;

Figure 9 shows a cross-sectional view of a third embodiment of the invention; Figure 10 shows a schematic side elevation view of the third embodiment of the invention;

Figure 11 shows a perspective view of a fourth embodiment of the invention; Figure 12 shows an exploded perspective view of the fourth embodiment of the invention;

Figure 13 shows a perspective view of a fifth embodiment of the invention; and Figure 14 shows a cross-sectional view of the fifth embodiment of the invention. Detailed description

Figure 1 shows a smoking article 10 according to a first embodiment of the invention. The smoking article 10 comprises a source of smokable material, which may be tobacco, in the form of a cylindrical tobacco rod 11. A filter 20 is co-axially attached to the tobacco rod 11. The filter 20 comprises a plurality of co-axial filter sections, described in further detail below.

A first filter section 12 comprises filtration material surrounded by a porous sheet material, which may be plug wrap. The porous sheet material is permeable to liquids and to gaseous flow. The filtration material may be cellulose acetate tow, as is conventionally known. The filtration material may be homogenous. The term "homogenous" is used to mean that the filtration material is

substantially uniform throughout the first filter section 12, and in particular, is uniform in a radial direction through the first filter section 12.

The filter comprises one or more additive release component 15 arranged on a periphery of the first filter section 12. In some examples, a plurality of additive release components are arranged around the first filter section 12. The additive release components 15 each contain contents which can be in the form of a fluid, in particular a liquid, or a flowable powder. The additive release components can be capsules. The additive release components 15 are configured to be ruptured or broken by inward pressure from a user, which releases the contents. The contents of the additive release components 15 are a liquid flavourant, for example menthol solution, or may be water. Each additive release component 15 comprises an outer wall, which is made of a gellable material such as gelatin, and an inner space filled with the fluid. The additive release components 15 are fixed to an exterior surface of the first filter section 12, for example by ultrasonic spot welds or adhesive, such that the additive release components are located securely and uniformly along the exterior surface of the first filter section.

Alternatively, the additive release components 15 are constrained within the filter 20 adjacent to the first filter section 12, but not affixed to the first filter section 12. The additive release components 15 are located around the whole circumference of the first filter section 12. The additive release components 15 are in an array which also extends longitudinally, and are in a single layer.

Alternatively, the additive release components are arranged in a plurality of layers around the first filter section, and/or over only a part of the circumference of the first filter section. For example, the additive release components are located in a plurality of circumferentially spaced apart areas. The additive release components 15 are broken by compression against the first filter section 12 by a user, by rupturing the outer wall of the additive release component. The first filter section 12 provides a reaction surface against which the additive release components 15 can be radially compressed. The contents released can enter the adjacent filtration material of first filter section 12. The additive release components are configured to release the additive when compressed, or urged, against the reaction surface provided by the filtration material of the first filter section. The exterior surface of the first filter section 12 forms the reaction surface against which the additive release components 15 can be urged to release the additive. The reaction surface is an exterior surface of the sheet material surrounding the filtration material of the first filtration section. In some examples, the sheet material is porous. The additive release component can be ruptured without being squeezed between two fingers of a user. The reaction surface provides for improved manipulation of the additive release components, allowing better control over the release of the additive.

The reaction surface has been described as formed of filtration material, on which the additive release components are located on a periphery. Alternatively, the reaction surface is provided by a different element. The reaction surface is provided by a core element which can be a tubular element, a cylindrical core, a rigid support of any cross-section (including circular or elliptical, box section or X-section) . The element forming the reaction surface can be hollow.

Alternatively, the reaction surface is provided by a region of greater hardness in a section of filtration material. The additive release components is located on an exterior surface of the element defining the reaction surface. Alternatively, the additive release components is located within the element defining the reaction surface. The reaction surface is considered as the part of the element on an interior side of the additive release components, against which the additive release components can be pressed to release the additive. For example, the reaction surface is filtration material radially inwardly of the additive release components.

The filter 20 further comprises a second filter section 13. The second filter section 13 is at a rearward (mouthpiece) end of the filter 20, and co-axially aligned with the first filter section 12. The second filter section 13 comprises a filtration material, which is wrapped in a porous sheet material, e.g. plugwrap.

The filtration material is cellulose acetate tow, as is conventionally known. The filtration material is homogenous. The term "homogenous" is used to mean that the filtration material is substantially uniform throughout the second filter section 13, and in particular, is uniform in a radial direction through the second filter section 13.

A third filter section 14 is adjacent to the tobacco rod 11, at a longitudinally forward end of the filter 20. The third filter section 14 is arranged coaxially with, and longitudinally forward of, the first filter section 12. The third filter section 14 comprises a filtration material, which is wrapped in a porous sheet material, e.g. plugwrap. The filtration material is cellulose acetate tow, as is conventionally known. The filtration material may be homogenous. The term "homogenous" is used to mean that the filtration material is substantially uniform throughout the third filter section 14, and in particular, is uniform in a radial direction through the third filter section 14.

An exterior diameter of the core of the first filter section 12 is less than an exterior diameter of the second filter section 13. In addition, an exterior diameter of the first filter section 12 is less than an exterior diameter of the third filter section 14. In some examples, the exterior diameters of the second and third filter sections 13, 14, are substantially the same. The first, second or third filter sections comprise filtration material wrapped in the porous sheet material, in particular paper, e.g. plugwrap. Alternatively, the first, second or third filter sections may not be wrapped in sheet material. Two adjacent filter sections can be connected together by a wrapper, which covers the joint between them. The assembly is connected to the tobacco rod by tipping paper, which wraps the whole filter and the end of the tobacco rod. The tobacco rod itself comprises tobacco in a paper wrapper. In some examples, only a curved exterior surface is wrapped by the sheet material, as is conventionally known. The first, second and third filter sections can be directly connected together, or held together by a covering layer extending around the first, second or third filter sections.

A covering layer forms the exterior surface of the filter 20. The covering layer is a sheet material wrapped around the first, second and third filter sections. The covering layer is formed of a material, e.g. a paper, which is substantially impermeable to fluids and gaseous flow. The paper is coated to be impermeable to fluids. The covering layer connects the filter 20 to the tobacco rod 11, and may be formed of paper. Alternatively, the covering layer does not connect the filter 20 to the tobacco rod 11, and a separate wrapped sheet of material provides a connection. The covering layer comprises a first section 16, a second section 17 and a third section 18 overlying the first, second and third filter sections 12, 13, 14 respectively. The first covering layer section 16 is at least partially transparent. The transparent first covering layer section 16 allows viewing of the additive release components 15 around the first filter section 12. The first covering layer section 16 is transparent over the whole circumference, or is transparent over only a part of the circumference. The covering layer comprises a transparent inner layer, which is formed of a transparent sheet of cellulose acetate. The transparent inner layer is surrounded by the outer covering layer, which is paper. A window (i.e. aperture) is formed in the outer covering layer, which is covered by the transparent inner layer.

The second and third covering layer section 17, 18 may be opaque, and may be patterned or coloured. The sections 16, 17, 18 of the covering layer are affixed together to form a single covering layer sheet, which is wrapped as a single unit. The covering layer sheet connects the first, second and third filter sections together. Alternatively, the sections 15, 17, 18 of the covering layer are separate sections, which are not directly affixed together. The covering layer extends at a substantially constant diameter around the first, second and third filter sections 12, 13, 14. The covering layer section 17 is affixed to an exterior surface of the second filter section, and the covering layer section 18 is affixed to an exterior surface of the third filter section. The first covering layer section 16 is radially spaced apart from the first filter section 12, since the first filter section 12 has a smaller diameter than the second and third filter sections. A chamber, which in some examples is an annular chamber, is defined between the covering layer 16 and the first filter section 12. The chamber is bounded longitudinally by the second and third filter sections 13, 14. The chamber extends around the whole periphery of the first filter section. The additive release components 15 are located in the chamber. In some aspects, the additive release components 15 and chamber are dimensioned such that only a single radial layer of additive release components 15 are located in the chamber surrounding the first filter section 12. Thus, a radially outwardly part of the additive release components 15 is close to, and underlying, an interior surface of the first covering layer section 16. The additive release components are therefore adjacent to an exterior surface of the filter 20. The radial extent of the chamber is the difference in radius between the first and second filter sections. The chamber is between 0.4mm and 0.8mm deep in a radial direction, and between 10 and 16mm in a longitudinal direction. For example, a kingsize smoking article having a diameter of approximately 7mm to 8mm may have a chamber which has a depth of 0.5mm and a length of 13mm. A superslim smoking article having a diameter of approximately 5 to 6mm may have a chamber which has a depth of 0.75mm and a length of 13mm. The chamber dimensions provide for the required quantity of additive in the additive release components.

The covering layer adj acent the additive release components 15 is configured to be radially deformable. The covering layer allows a substantially radial compressive force, external to the covering layer, to readily deform the covering layer. The force may be from a user radially compressing the smoking article. The deformable covering layer allows the radial force to compress the additive release components 15 against the reaction surface. In particular, the covering layer extends over the chamber containing the additive release components, and is radially deformable over the chamber. The chamber does not contain filtration material, such that the chamber provides for deformation of the covering layer over the chamber, and direct transfer of a radial force to the additive release components. Therefore, the additive release components 15 can be radially crushed through the covering layer. This allows a selection of which additive release components 15 to release additive, by applying a radial force inwardly only at the location of the additive release components 15 to be crushed. The covering material is formed of a paper material which deforms on application of a pressure when attached to the filter.

The additive release component(s) are located in a periphery of the filter of the smoking article or the smoking article. As such, the additive release

component(s) do not extend to a lateral centre of the filter or smoking article. The additive release component(s) extend only in an area adj acent a radial periphery of the filter or smoking article. In some examples, all of the one or more additive release component(s) are adjacent an overall radial periphery of the filter or smoking article, for example, adjacent to (and within) an exterior covering layer, and/or radially outside the first filter section. In some aspects, the first filter section extends radially over a central longitudinal axis. The reaction surface is located radially between, and spaced from, the central axis and the exterior of the filter or smoking article. The reaction surface can be considered as adjacent to the exterior of the filter or smoking article. In particular, the reaction surface is located on a same side of the central axis as the additive release component which can be urged against the corresponding part of the reaction surface. The additive release components can be adjacent to the reaction surface. The term 'adjacent' may indicate that the additive release components are proximal to the reaction surface and can be urged onto the reaction surface during use. The term may, but does not necessarily, indicate that the additive release components are in contact with the reaction surface.

Alternatively, the filter 20 does not include the third filter section 14. The filter then comprises only a first and second filter section. The covering layer is attached to the second filter section 13 and tobacco rod 11 to maintain radial separation from the first filter section. The tobacco rod 11 generally takes the functions of the third filter section, e.g. preventing forward longitudinal movement of the additive release components 15.

Figure 2 shows a perspective view of the smoking article 10, in which a part of the second filter section 13 has been cut away and showing the homogenous filtration material of the second filter section 13. The exterior surface of the first filter section 12 is also visible. The cylindrical first filter section 12 has a smaller diameter than the adjacent filter sections 13,14, such that the additive release components 15 on the periphery of the first filter section 12 are substantially within the diameter of the second and third filter sections 13,14, and within the covering layer.

Figure 3 shows a side elevation view of the filter 20. The additive release components 15 are in an initial state, in which none of the additive release components have been ruptured. The intact additive release components 15a are a first colour, which is visible through the first covering layer section 16. The additive release components 15a contain liquid such as water , or a liquid flavourant such as a menthol solution. Figure 4 shows the filter 20 in a second state, in which additive release components 15b have been ruptured. The fluid from the additive release components 15b has been released and can enter the first filter section 12, and/or second and third filter sections 13,14. The ruptured additive release components 15b are a second colour, different to the first colour of the intact additive release components 15a. The transparent first covering layer section 16 provides a visual invitation to a user of the number and location of ruptured and intact additive release components i5a,isb. The colour difference between intact and ruptured additive release components may be due to the additive release components having substantially transparent outer shells, containing (in the intact state) coloured additive.

The first, second and third filter sections 12, 13, 14 are formed as separate sections of filtration material wrapped in a porous sheet material. The first, second and third filter sections 12, 13, 14 are abutting and coaxially aligned in a longitudinal relationship. The first, second and third filter sections are not directly connected to each other, and connected only by the covering layer. Each filter section is formed as a solid cylinder of filtration material.

Figure 5 shows a filter assembly 30 comprising an inner filter element 32, a first outer filter element 33 and a second outer filter element 34. The filter assembly 30 forms the first, second and third filter sections described in Figures 1 to 4, or any embodiment of the invention. An exterior surface and function of the filter assembly 30 is the same as the filter sections 12, 13, 14 described in Figures 1 to 4. In particular, a longitudinally central section of the inner filter element 32 defines the first filter section. The first outer filter element 33 and second outer filter element 34, with longitudinally peripheral sections of the inner filter element 32, define the second and third filter sections described in Figures 1 to 4. In particular, the longitudinally central section of the inner filter element 32 forming the first filter section has a smaller diameter than the second and third outer filter elements 33, 34. The additive release components are intended to be located around a core of the filter, i.e. the inner filter element 32.

In filter assembly 30, the first outer filter element 33 comprises a central aperture 33a and the second outer filter element 34 comprises a central aperture 34a. The central apertures 33a,34a are each a cylindrical bore extending the whole length of the first and second outer filter elements 33, 34. The central aperture 33a,34a can be circular, such that the first and second outer filter elements 33, 34 are annular sections of homogenous filtration material, and surrounded by a sheet material (e.g. plug wrap), which may optionally be porous. The central apertures have a surface which substantially matches an exterior surface of the inner filter element 32, i.e. the central apertures have the same diameter as an exterior diameter of the inner filter element 32. The second and third filter sections are not homogenous filter sections in this embodiment.

The inner filter element 32 comprises an inner elongate rod, which are in the form of a cylinder. The inner filter element 32 extends into the central aperture 33a of the first outer filter element 33 and extends into the central aperture 34a of the second outer filter element 34. The location of a part of the inner filter element 32 within the first and second outer filter elements provides a

connection between the filter elements, and filter sections described in Figures 1 to 4. The whole length of the inner filter element 32 are formed of filtration material, and covered in porous sheet material. Alternatively, only a section of the inner filter element 32 between the first and second outer filter elements 33, 34 may be covered in porous sheet material.

The filter assembly 30 are formed by sliding the first and second outer filter elements 33, 34 around the inner filter element 32. During manufacture, each first filter element may have a single first and second outer filter elements 33, 34 located around its ends. Alternatively, the inner filter element are formed as a rod having a length for forming a plurality of filter assemblies 30. A plurality of first and second outer filter elements 33, 34 are slid around the inner filter element. The inner filter element, and optionally also the first and second outer filter elements 33, 34, are then cut to form individual filter assemblies 30. The inner filter element is cut before or after the additive release components 15 and covering layer have been combined with the filter assembly 30. The first filter section 12, which is formed by the central section of the inner filter element 32, of any embodiment has a hardness which is different to the hardness of at least an outer part of the second and third filter sections. In particular, the inner filter element 32 is harder than the first and second outer filter elements. The harder first filter section provides a harder reaction surface against which the additive release components 15 can be compressed. The harder first filter section therefore provides for improved rupturing of the additive release components 15. The higher hardness of the first filter section may be achieved by using a higher proportion of plasticiser than in the first and second outer filter elements 33,34. In some examples, the amount of plasticiser is increased by more than: 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60, 70%, 80%, 90%, or 100% relative to the first and second outer filter elements 33,34. The hardness of the filtration material can be measured on the "Filtrona" scale. A standard hardness of filtration material on the Filtrona scale is 80-89%. The first and second outer filter elements, i.e. exterior parts of the second and third filter sections can have such a hardness of less than 90%, and in particular, 80 to 89%. The inner filter element, i.e. first filter section, can have a hardness of greater than 90% on the Filtrona scale. In some examples, the hardness of the first filter section is greater than 95%, and optionally greater than or approximately 96%.

The Filtrona hardness can be determined as follows: a filter rod (for example a length of 102 millimetres) having a mean diameter (D), of about 7.8 millimetres, is compressed between two plates provided in the testing instrument. The rod is subjected to compression for 15 seconds by a load of 300 grams applied to opposite sides of the cylindrical surface of the rod and the average depression (A), that is the decrease in diameter of the rod is measured. The hardness is the diameter of the sample measured at a load of 300 grams and expressed as a percentage of the original diameter, that is, it is given by the following formula: Hardness %=[(D-A)]/Dxioo

Alternatively or in addition, the filtration material of the inner filter element has a different paper wrap (i.e. plugwrap) than the first and second outer filter elements. In particular, the wrap of the inner filter element is harder, for example by being thicker and/or treated with hardening substances, such that the exterior inner filter element is relatively hard to provide a reaction surface. Figure 6 shows a filter unit 40 comprising two filters 20 as described with respect to Figures 1 to 4 during manufacture. The filter unit 40 alternatively corresponds to the structure of the embodiment shown in Figure 5, or any other embodiment. The filter unit 40 comprises first filter sections 12 having peripheral additive release components 15, and adjacent to second filter sections 13, as described with respect to Figures l to 4. The third filter section 14' is a double length third filter section 14. The filter unit 40 is configured to be cut through the mid-point of third filter section 14' to provide two identical filters 20 according to the invention. The filter unit 40 is attached to two co-axial tobacco rods before cutting into two filters, or may be cut prior to attachment to a tobacco rod. The filter unit 40 is wrapped by the covering layer prior to being cut into individual filters.

The third filter section 14' is the same length as a second filter section 13, or the third filter section 14' is longer, e.g. twice as long, as a second filter section 13.

Alternatively, the filter unit 40 comprises more than two first filter sections 12. The filter unit 40 comprises a plurality of first filter sections 12, each separated by a co-axial filter section which forms the second filter section or third filter section.

Figure 7 shows a side elevation view of a partially formed filter of the invention. A first method of manufacturing and construction of the filter is described, which is applicable to any embodiment, and is described with respect to the first embodiment. The first, second and third filter sections 12,13,14 are wrapped in a single sheet of covering layer 16,17,18. The additive release components 15 are affixed to the first covering layer section 16 prior to wrapping around the first filter section 12. In some examples, the additive release components 15 are affixed to the first covering layer section 16 with adhesive. The covering layer is wrapped around the filter sections 12,13,14, with the additive release

components 15 aligned with and surrounding the first filter section 12. The additive release components 15 overlie, but are not affixed to, the first filter section 12. Figure 8 shows a second manufacturing method of the invention. The second manufacturing method is applicable to any embodiment, and is described with respect to the first embodiment, as shown in Figure 6. The additive release components are attached to a substrate 56, for example by adhesive. The substrate 56 is an elongate sheet material. The substrate 56 has a width which is the same or less than the longitudinal length of the first filter section, such that the substrate 56 is located between the second and third filter sections. The substrate 56 is wrapped around the first filter section 12, such that the substrate is adjacent the first filter section, and the additive release components are on an exterior surface of the substrate. The substrate 56 is a porous material, allowing additive through the substrate into the filtration material within. The substrate 56 is a porous mesh. The substrate 56 is affixed to the first filter section 12 by applying adhesive to the first filter section 12 and/or by applying adhesive to the substrate 56, prior to the substrate 56 being wrapped around the first filter section 12. The sheet of covering layer 16,17,18 can then be wrapped around the filter sections and the substrate 56. Alternatively, the additive release

components are affixed to an interior surface of the substrate 56.

Alternatively, in the methods of Figures 7 and 8, the additive release components are affixed directly to an exterior surface of the first filter section. An adhesive is applied to the additive release components 15 such that the additive release components 15 adhere to the first filter section 12. The additive release components 15 are affixed to both the first filter section 12 and the surrounding covering layer 16 or substrate 56.

Alternatively, the additive release components 15 are affixed only to the first filter section 12 by applying an adhesive to the first filter section 12 prior to contact with the additive release components 15. Alternatively, the adhesive is applied to the additive release components 15 prior to contact with the first filter section 12. Figure 9 shows a third embodiment of a filter 50 according to the invention. The filter 50 comprises a first filter section 52 having an exterior surface 59. The first filter section 52 comprises filtration material wrapped in a sheet material, which is a porous material, for example, paper e.g. plug wrap. The sheet material defines the exterior surface 59. The exterior surface 59 defines one or more grooves 59a, separated by lands 59b in the form of ridges. The grooves and lands 59a, 59b provide a fluted or radially varying exterior surface 59. In some examples, the radius of the exterior surface 59 smoothly varies around the circumference. The grooves and lands 59a, 59b are also formed in the filtration material, which has an exterior surface uniformly covered with the covering layer sheet material. The covering layer forms an exterior surface of the filter or smoking article. The covering layer is adjacent to one or more lands on an exterior surface of the reaction surface adjacent the grooves. In some aspects, each groove defines a chamber between the covering layer and the reaction surface. One or more additive release components are located in said chamber(s) .

A plurality of additive release components 15 is located in the grooves 59a. The additive release components 15 are located within the radius of the lands 59b. The additive release components 15 are as described in any other embodiment.

The first filter section 52 is surrounded by a first covering layer section 16, as described previously. The grooves 59a and first covering layer section 16 define channels for the additive release components 15, which retain the additive release components 15 in the selected channel in combination with the second and third filter sections.

Figure 10 shows a side elevation view of the filter 50. The first filter section 52 is as described with respect to Figure 9. The grooves 59a and additive release components 15 are dimensioned such that the additive release components 15 extend in a single line along each groove 59a. Alternatively, the channels 59a accommodate more than one additive release component 15 at each longitudinal point, or the additive release components are not circumferentially aligned within a groove. The filter 50 further comprises a second filter section 13, as described in any of the other embodiments. The filter 50 optionally further comprises a third filter section, substantially as described in any of the other embodiments. The second filter section and/or third has the same diameter as the lands 59b. The filter 50 is co-axially attached to a tobacco rod 11, substantially as described in any of the other embodiments. A covering layer surrounds the filter sections 52, 13, 14. The covering layer may comprise a first covering layer section 16, second covering layer section 17 and third covering layer 18 respectively covering the first, second and third filter sections 52, 13, 14. The first covering layer sections 16 is transparent over at least a part of its area. The covering layer 16, 17, 18 is as described in any of the other embodiments. The additive release components 15 are retained in the grooves 59a by the first covering layer section 16 in a radial direction, and by the second filter section 13 and third filter section 14 in a longitudinal direction. In the alternative embodiment in which the third filter section 14 is not present, the tobacco rod 11 retains the additive release components 15 in the grooves 59a in a forward longitudinal direction.

The grooves 59a have been shown as extending parallel to a longitudinal access of the filter 50. Alternatively, one or more grooves extend helically or circumferentially and wholly or partly around the first filter section 52 or in any other configuration.

The lands 59b have been shown as ridges with a smoothly varying profile.

Alternatively, the lands 59b have an exterior surface with a uniform radius between the grooves 59a. The grooves 59a have a constantly varying radius as shown, or define channels with a uniform radius in a circumferential direction. The exterior surface 59 is defined by steps between the lower radius of the grooves 59 and the higher radius of the lands 59b. The filter of any embodiment may comprise a barrier configured to separate gaseous flow from the tobacco rod from additive released from the additive release components. The gaseous flow and additive are therefore substantially separated. Gaseous flow from the tobacco rod can pass through the inner and outer filter elements. The inner and outer filter elements are separated by a barrier layer, which is substantially impermeable to the gaseous flow and ventilating air. The gaseous flow follows separate inner and/or outer paths through the filter.

Ventilation air may enter the first, second and/or third filter sections, through ventilating perforations or apertures or a porous area on the covering layer. The additive released from the additive release components is entrained by the ventilating air, and gaseous flow, in the outer annulus, and is isolated from the inner filter element by the barrier layer. The ventilating air, with additive, follows a separate path through the filter and exits the mouthpiece end of the filter separately from the inner gaseous flow from the tobacco rod. Alternatively, gaseous flow from the tobacco rod is substantially restricted to the inner filter element, for example, for the whole length of the filter, or

alternatively, at least for an initial section of the filter. A barrier configured to restrict gaseous flow to an radially inner part of the filter, separate from the additive release components, is upstream of the additive release components. In some examples, the barrier is at a forward (upstream) end of the first filter section 12, 32, 52. Alternatively, the barrier is adj acent to a forward end of the filter, for example at a forward end of the third filter section 14. The barrier is configured to allow gaseous flow from the tobacco rod to only enter a radially central part of the first filter section. The additive release components 15, and released flavourant, are at a radially peripheral part of the first filter section. The additive is entrained by ventilating air, without gaseous flow from the tobacco rod. Alternatively, the smoking article may be provided with ventilation apertures in the first, second and/or third filter sections, without separation of the gaseous flow with a barrier or barrier layer.

Figures 11 and 12 show a fourth embodiment of the invention. The smoking article 70 is substantially described in any other embodiment, having a tobacco rod 71 and a filter 80 coaxially attached. The filter 80 comprises a filter section 72, which is a cylinder and is the only filter section of the smoking article 70.

The filter 80 comprises one or more additive release component areas 74. Each additive release component area 74 comprises a plurality of additive release components 75, which have a relatively small diameter. The additive release components 75 have a diameter of from ιοομηι to 500 μηι, or less than 100 μηι. In some examples, a plurality of additive release component areas 74 are circumferentially spaced around the filter 80.

Figure 12 shows an exploded view of the filter 80. The filter section 72 comprises filtration material, e.g. cellulose acetate, wrapped in a porous sheet material, e.g. plug wrap, substantially as described in any embodiment.

Alternatively, the first filter section 72 comprises filtration material without a wrapped sheet material. The additive release components 75 of the additive release component areas 74 are located on the exterior of the first filter section 72. The additive release component areas 74 are each covered by a transparent sheet 78. In some examples, a transparent sheet 78 separately covers each additive release component area 74. Alternatively, a single transparent sheet 78 covers all additive release component areas 74.

A covering layer 76 surrounds the first filter section 72, additive release components 75 and the transparent sheets 78. The covering layer is formed of an air and fluid impermeable material, as described in any of the embodiments. The covering layer 76 is provided with one or more apertures aligned with the transparent sheets 78. The transparent sheets 78 are affixed to the covering layer 76, to close the apertures 77 and allow viewing of the additive release components 75. The additive release components are located adjacent a periphery of the filter 80, to which the covering layer 76 is directly affixed, without forming a chamber for the additive release components.

In some aspects, the filter 80 comprises a plurality of additive release

component areas 74, each of which comprises additive release components 75 containing a fluid (flavourant or water) which is different to another of the additive release component areas 74. The type of flavourant or water released by rupturing additive release components is selected by selecting the

circumferentially spaced additive release component area 74. In some examples, the first filter section is relatively hard compared to a conventional filter. The higher hardness of the first filter section may be achieved by using a higher proportion of plasticiser than is conventional. In some aspects, the amount of plasticiser is increased by more than: 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60, 70%, 80%, 90%, or 100% relative to the second or third sections. The hardness of the filtration material may be measured on the

"Filtrona" scale. A standard hardness of filtration material on the Filtrona scale is 80-89%. The first filter section may have a hardness of greater than 90% on the Filtrona scale. For example, the hardness of the first filter section is greater than 95%, and optionally greater than or approximately 96%. The additive release components 75 are ruptured by compressing the additive release components against the underlying exterior of the first filter section 72, in order to release their fluid contents. The additive release components are configured such that the number of additive release components ruptured depends on the force applied by a user. One or two light compressions by a user may rupture only a small number of additive release components in a selected additive release component area 74, releasing a relatively small amount of additive. A larger compression force ruptures a relatively larger number of additive release components. A few hard compressions by a user may release substantially all of the additive contained in the additive release components of a selected additive release component area 74.

Figure 13 and 14 show a fifth embodiment of filter and smoking article 90 according to the invention. The smoking article 90 comprises a tobacco rod 91 and coaxially attached filter 100. The filter 100 comprises a first filter section 92 which is a cylinder and is the only filter section. The filter section 92 comprises filtration material, e.g. cellulose acetate, wrapped in a porous sheet material, e.g. plug wrap, substantially as described in any embodiment. Alternatively, the first filter section 92 comprises filtration material without a wrapped sheet material.

The filter 100 comprises one or more additive release components 95 containing flavourant or fluid. The filter 100 comprises a covering layer 96 extending over substantially the whole of the first filter section 92. The additive release components 95 protrude beyond the exterior surface of the first filter section 92, and also protrudes beyond an exterior surface of the covering layer 96. An exterior surface of the additive release components 95 forms an exterior of the filter 100, and hence is visible to a user. Each additive release component also extends within the first filter section 92.

Figure 14 shows a cross section through the filter 100. The additive release components 95 comprise an outer part 95a located outside of the exterior surface of the covering layer 96 and first filter section 92. The outer part 95a defines a curved exterior surface, substantially matching the curvature of the covering layer 96 in a circumferential direction. In a longitudinal direction, the exterior surface 95a is uniform in radius, matching the tubular covering layer 96. An inner part 95b of the additive release components 95 is curved to have an apex pointing radially inwardly. The inner part 95b is a hemisphere or a section of tube having a uniform cross-section in a longitudinal section. The inner part 95b is configured to rupture when the additive release component 95 is compressed inwardly by a user, releasing the fluid contents into the first filter section 92.

In some examples, the filter 100 comprises a plurality of additive release components 95 each having a flavourant or water which is different to the contents of another of the additive release components 95. The covering layer 961s marked with alphanumeric characters indicating the different contents of the additive release components 95.

In some examples, the first filter section is relatively hard compared to a conventional filter. The higher hardness of the first filter section may be achieved by using a higher proportion of plasticiser than is conventional. In some examples, the amount of plasticiser is increased by more than: 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60, 70%, 80%, 90%, or 100% relative to a conventional filter. The hardness of the filtration material may be measured on the "Filtrona" scale. A standard hardness of filtration material on the Filtrona scale is 80-89%. The first filter section preferably has a hardness of greater than 90% on the Filtrona scale. Preferably, the hardness of the first filter section is greater than 95%, and optionally greater than or approximately 96%. The diameter of the filter of any embodiment is within the range 4 to 10 mm. The additive release component diameter is within the range 0.1 - 3.5 mm, and more particularly 0.5 to 1.2 mm. Preferably, the additive release component diameter is approximately imm. Alternatively, the additive release component diameter may be less than imm, or less than 0.7mm, or less than 0.5mm, or less than 0.3mm. Alternatively, the additive release components has a diameter of from ιοομηι to 500 μηι, or less than 100 μηι.

These ranges are not, however, intended to be limiting and the skilled person would understand that larger or smaller filter diameters or additive release components could be employed. A filter can be formed so as to have more than one type of flavourant. For example, the additive release components is formed so that one or more additive release components in a filter contain a first flavourant, and one or more additive release components in the filter contain a different, second, flavourant.

By applying pressure to the outside of the part of the filter which surrounds the additive release components, the smoker can break one or more additive release components against the reaction surface and release the additive (e.g. flavourant or fluid therein).

The additive release component are located on or adjacent an external surface of a filter, within filtration material. Alternatively, the additive release component and reaction surface are located in a tobacco rod. Alternatively, the additive release component and reaction surface are located in a separate section of the smoking article, not surrounded by filtration material. For example, the additive release component is located in a separate section located between the tobacco rod and filter.

The reaction surface has been described as formed by a relatively hard part of the first filter section. Alternatively, the filtration material and/or porous wrap forming the reaction surface of any embodiment may be standard and

conventional, without having any particular hardened properties. The location of the additive release component on or adjacent a periphery of the filtration material, or adjacent a particular reaction surface, can provide a reaction surface against which the additive release component can be urged to release additive.

Although the additive release components have been described as having a frangible outer shell (e.g. formed of gelatine), other additive release component types may be used in combination with a filter of the invention.

The additive release components can formed by a spray dried

microencapsulation process. Alternatively, the additive release components are manufactured by a known co-extrusion process, for a size of 5θθμηι to 10 mm. In the co-extrusion process, two fluids are extruded together so that a additive release component is created by surface tension. The shell fluid, which can be a warm solution of a gellable material, and the liquid contents, e.g. a menthol solution, are respectively delivered under pressure from separate tanks into a two-fluid nozzle. The shell fluid and liquid contents flow from the nozzle into a carrier fluid in which they form droplets , the droplets having an outer shell of shell fluid and an inner core of fluid contents. A cooling mechanism is provided to cool and solidify the shell fluid. The gellable shell material may be gelatine, alginate, agar-agar, gum arabicum, latices or waxes. Alternatively, the additive release components is formed by any suitable process for encapsulating a fluid. For example, the additive release components is formed by interfacial polymerisation, which may produce a size of ο.2μηι to a few millimetres. The shell is made of a polymer, for example, polyester, polyamide, polyurea, polyurethane, or a biodegradable polymer e.g. protein, polysaccharides or oligosaccharides.

Alternatively, the additive release components is formed by complex

coacervation, which may produce a particle size of ιομηι to a few millimetres. The additive release component is made from gelatine and gum arabic.

Alternatively, the additive release components is formed by single extrusion, which produces a particle size of 200μηι to a few millimetres. The additive release component shell can be made from alginate, chitosan, carrageenan, cellulose derivatives, or waxes.

Alternatively, the additive release components is formed by melt extrusion, which may produce a particle size of 3θθμηι to a few millimetres. The additive release component shell is made from gelatine, sugars, maltodextrins, corn syrup, food polymers or modified starches.

Alternatively, the additive release components are formed by melt injection, which produces a particle size of 200μηι to a few millimetres. The additive release component shell can be made from carbohydrate materials, e.g. sucrose, glucose syrups and modified starches. Alternatively, the additive release components are formed by a spray drying microencapsulation process, which can produce a particle size of ιομηι to a few millimetres. The additive release component shell can be made from

polysaccharides (starch, alginate, agar, pectin, carrageenan, gums), proteins (gelatine, casein), fats and fatty acids, cellulose derivatives, lipids (waxes, shellac, carnuba or beeswax).

The additive release components have been described as located on a radial periphery of the smoking article. Alternatively, one or more additive release component can be located on a mouthpiece end surface of the filter. The additive release component are arranged in an analogous manner to Figures 13 and 14, to release additive into the filtration material adjacent the mouthpiece end.

Alternatively, additive release component are affixed to an interior surface of the covering layer.

The additive release components are capsules having an outer shell, containing additive contents e.g. as fluid (liquid or powder) in an interior cavity. The outer shell of each additive release component is frangible to release all of the additive on application of pressure.

Alternatively, each additive release component can release its additive contents in a plurality of discrete doses, preferably actuated by a plurality of separate applications of pressure. This type of additive release component comprises a resiliently or plastically deformable outer shell, preferably configured to release additive through a slit formed in a pre-determined area. Alternatively, this type of additive release components comprises a porous absorbent substrate having an open cell structure (e.g. open cell foam), in which the additive is contained. The substrate is at least partially resiliently deformable. The substrate is surrounded by an outer shell to retain the additive, which may be frangible, resiliently deformable, plastically deformable, or a thin coating. The substrate may form discrete additive release components, or may be in the form of an annulus in the first filter section. Alternatively, this type of additive release component comprises a porous matrix containing the additive in discrete cavities and having a closed cell structure (e.g. closed cell foam), which is plastically deformable to release the additive. The additive release components can be individually attached to the filter or substrate. Alternatively, the additive release components may be connected by a web, and may be connected between laminated strips of sheet material.

Alternatively, the strips of sheet material form the additive release components, such that the additive release components do not have a separate outer shell, and the strips of sheet material contain the additive.

The additive release components have been described as manually manipulated to release the additive. Alternatively, a movable part is configured such that movement of the movable part around an exterior of the smoking article releases additive from at least one of the additive release components. The movement may be sliding or rotation, by a ring or C-shaped clip, over an external surface of the filter. The filter may provide a reaction surface, against which the additive release components are urged by the movable part. The additive release components are located in one or more grooves, extending circumferentially, longitudinally or helically. Alternatively, the movable part comprises a covering layer defining two adjacent surfaces, wherein the additive release components are located between the adjacent surfaces such that relative movement of the adjacent surfaces of the covering layer releases additive from at least one of the additive release components.

The additive release components have been described as spherical. Alternatively, the additive release components are elongate, with a longitudinal axis extending parallel to a longitudinal axis of the filter. The elongate additive release component preferably has a circular or elliptical cross-section, and contains more additive than an additive release component of the same diameter. The elongate additive release component has a maximum lateral extent of less than 3.5mm, or less than 3mm, or from 2mm to 3mm. Alternatively, or in addition, the elongate additive release component may have a radial cross-sectional area which is less than 50% of the radial cross-sectional area of the smoking article, and optionally, less than 40% or less than 30%. Such an additive release component is optimised for use in a small diameter smoking article, e.g. having a diameter of 5mm to 6mm, or 6mm to 7mm. The additive release components have been described as individually located in the smoking article. Alternatively, a plurality of the additive release components are surrounded by an outer wall or outer encapsulation. The outer encapsulation may be porous or configured to rupture or deform to allow release of additive on compression. The outer encapsulation is itself contained within a further encapsulation. The additive is contained within a plurality of discrete cavities within an open cell substrate, or a closed cell substrate. The open cell substrate, and optionally the closed cell substrate, has an outer encapsulation. One or more additive release components are affixed to an exterior of a substantially larger additive release component. Alternatively, a plurality of additive release components, of the same or different sizes, may be affixed together. Any of these embodiments may be considered as a plurality of components connected in a unitary structure.

The additive released from the additive release components has been described as being entrained by ventilating air and/or gaseous flow from the tobacco rod. Alternatively, flow containing additive are selectively released from the filter. The filter comprises a selecting means, e.g. in the form of a movable element, preferably rotatable, at a mouthpiece end of the filter. The selecting means, at least a part of which is movable in relation to the first and second flow paths, is configured to select a first flow path, a second flow path, or optionally, an adjustable proportion of the first and second flow paths. The first flow path may correspond to an annular, radially outer flow path, and the second flow path may correspond to a radially inner flow path within the first flow path. Alternatively, first and second half-cylindrical filter parts respectively define the first and second flow paths, the first and second filter parts arranged together to form a cylindrical filter part. The additive is initially encapsulated within one or more additive release components (i.e. capsules), prior to being selectively released.

The additive release component are located in a filter, within filtration material. Alternatively, the additive release component are located in a tobacco rod.

Alternatively, the additive release component are located in a separate section of the smoking article, not surrounded by filtration material. For example, the additive release component are located in a separate section located between the tobacco rod and filter. Materials for the additive release components or filter comply with and/or are subject to applicable regulatory requirements/ approvals. Embodiments of the invention may be configured to comply with applicable laws and/or regulations, such as, by way of non-limiting example, regulations relating to flavours, additives, emissions, constituents, and/or the like. For example, the invention may be configured such that a smoking article implementing the invention is compliant with applicable regulations before and after release of an additive or additives.

Any of the features described in any embodiment may be used in combination with any other features of any other embodiment.

As used herein, the terms "flavour" and "flavourant" refer to materials which, where local regulations permit, may be used to create a desired taste or aroma in a product for adult consumers. They may include extracts (e.g., licorice, hydrangea, Japanese white bark magnolia leaf, chamomile, fenugreek, clove, menthol, Japanese mint, aniseed, cinnamon, herb, wintergreen, cherry, berry, peach, apple, Drambuie, bourbon, scotch, whiskey, spearmint, peppermint, lavender, cardamon, celery, cascarilla, nutmeg, sandalwood, bergamot, geranium, honey essence, rose oil, vanilla, lemon oil, orange oil, cassia, caraway, cognac, jasmine, ylang-ylang, sage, fennel, piment, ginger, anise, coriander, coffee, or a mint oil from any species of the genus Mentha), flavour enhancers, bitterness receptor site blockers, sensorial receptor site activators or stimulators, sugars and/or sugar substitutes (e.g., sucralose, acesulfame potassium, aspartame, saccharine, cyclamates, lactose, sucrose, glucose, fructose, sorbitol, or mannitol), and other additives such as charcoal, chlorophyll, minerals, botanicals, or breath freshening agents. They may be imitation, synthetic or natural ingredients or blends thereof. They may be in any suitable form, for example, oil, liquid, or powder. In order to address various issues and advance the art, the entirety of this disclosure shows by way of illustration various embodiments in which the claimed invention(s) may be practiced and provide for superior containment of additive. The advantages and features of the disclosure are of a representative sample of embodiments only, and are not exhaustive and/or exclusive. They are presented only to assist in understanding and teach the claimed features. It is to be understood that advantages, embodiments, examples, functions, features, structures, and/or other aspects of the disclosure are not to be considered limitations on the disclosure as defined by the claims or limitations on equivalents to the claims, and that other embodiments may be utilised and

modifications may be made without departing from the scope and/or spirit of the disclosure. Various embodiments may suitably comprise, consist of, or consist essentially of, various combinations of the disclosed elements, components, features, parts, steps, means, etc. In addition, the disclosure includes other inventions not presently claimed, but which may be claimed in future.

Claims

Claims l. A filter for a smoking article comprising:

an additive release component from which an additive can be released by the application of pressure,

wherein the additive release component is located in a periphery of the filter, and

a reaction surface arranged adjacent to the additive release component, wherein the filter is configured such that the additive release component can be radially urged against the reaction surface to release the additive.

2. The filter as claimed in claim l comprising:

a first filter section comprising filtration material, wherein the first filter section forms the reaction surface, and the additive release component is located on or adjacent a periphery of the first filter section.

3. The filter as claimed in claim 2 further comprising:

a second filter section comprising filtration material;

wherein the second filter section has an exterior diameter greater than an exterior diameter of the first filter section.

4. The filter as claimed in claim 2 further comprising:

a second filter section comprising filtration material at a rearward end of the first filter section; and

a third filter section comprising filtration material at a forward end of the first filter section;

wherein the second and third filter sections each have an exterior diameter greater than an exterior diameter of the first filter section.

5. The filter as claimed in claim 3 or 4 wherein the first filter section comprises an inner filter element in the form of an elongate rod of filtration material which extends into a central aperture of a first outer filter element forming an exterior of the second filter section, and if present, a central aperture of a second outer filter element forming an exterior of the third filter section.

6. The filter as claimed in claim 3, 4 or 5 wherein the first filter section is harder than the second filter section, and if present, the third filter section, and optionally, the inner filter element is harder than the first outer filter element, and if present, the second outer filter element.

7. The filter as claimed in claim 6 wherein the first filter section comprises a higher proportion of plasticiser than the second filter section, and if present, the third filter section, and optionally, the inner filter element comprises a higher proportion of plasticiser than the first outer filter element, and if present, the second outer filter element.

8. The filter as claimed in any one of the preceding claims further

comprising a covering layer forming an exterior surface of the filter, wherein the covering layer is radially deformable such that a force external to the covering layer can urge the additive release component radially against the reaction surface.

9. The filter as claimed in any one of the preceding claims comprising a peripheral chamber, wherein a plurality of additive release components are located in the chamber.

10. The filter as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a covering layer forming an exterior surface of the filter,

wherein the covering layer is spaced from the reaction surface such that a chamber is defined between the covering layer and the reaction surface,

wherein the additive release components are located in the chamber.

11. The filter as claimed in any one of claims 3 to 7 and claim 8, 9 or 10, wherein the covering layer extends with a substantially constant diameter around the first filter section, second filter section, and if present, the third filter section,

wherein the covering layer is affixed to an exterior surface of the second filter section, and if present, the third filter section.

12. The filter as claimed in claim 10 or 11 wherein the covering layer is transparent over at least a part of the first filter section.

13. The filter as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the additive release components have an average diameter selected from one of: more than 0.5mm, from 0.5mm to 1.2mm, less than imm, less than 0.5mm, from ιοομηι to 500 μηι, and less than 100 μηι.

14. The filter as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein an exterior surface of the reaction surface comprises one or more grooves, wherein the additive release components are located in the groove(s).

15. The filter as claimed in claimi4 wherein the grooves have an orientation selected from one of: extending parallel to a longitudinal axis of the filter, and, extending helically around the filter.

16. The filter as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the additive release components are attached to a substrate wrapped around the reaction surface.

17. A smoking article comprising:

wherein the additive release component is located in a periphery of the smoking article, and

a reaction surface arranged adjacent to the additive release component, wherein the smoking article is configured such that the additive release component can be radially urged against the reaction surface to release the additive.

18. A method of manufacturing a filter for a smoking article, comprising: providing an additive release component from which an additive can be released by the application of pressure,

locating the additive release component in a periphery of the smoking article, and

providing a reaction surface arranged adjacent to the additive release component, and forming the smoking article such that the additive release component can be radially urged against the reaction surface to release the additive.

19. The method of claim 18 further comprising:

providing a second filter section comprising filtration material,

connecting the second filter section to the first filter section;

20. The method of any claim 18 or 19 further comprising:

providing a third filter section comprising filtration material;

connecting the third filter section to the first filter section;

wherein the third filter section has an exterior diameter greater than an exterior diameter of the first filter section.

21. The method of any one of claims 18 to 20 wherein the second filter section is formed by a first outer filter element having a central aperture, and the method further comprises:

inserting an inner filter element which defines the first filter section into the central aperture of the first outer filter element,

and if the third filter section is present,

inserting the inner filter element into a central aperture of a second outer filter element forming the third filter section.

22. The method of any one of claims 18 to 21 further comprising:

affixing the additive release components to a covering layer prior to wrapping the covering layer around the first filter section.

23. The method of any one of claims 18 to 21 further comprising:

affixing the additive release components to a substrate, and then affixing the substrate to the first filter section,

wherein the additive release components are on an exterior surface of the substrate when attached to the first filter section.