AEROSOL GENERATING ARTICLE

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This is a continuation application of International Patent Application No. PCT/CN2024/102970, filed on Jul. 1, 2024, which claims priority to Chinese patent application No. 202310930047.7 filed on Jul. 26, 2023 and entitled “AEROSOL GENERATING ARTICLE”. The disclosures of these applications are incorporated by reference herein in their entireties.

BACKGROUND

This section is intended to provide background or context for the embodiments of the present disclosure. The inclusion of such descriptions in this section shall not be construed as an admission that they constitute prior art by reason of their inclusion in this section.

The aerosol-generating substrate section may form an aerosol by means of combustion or by heating without combustion. Taking the aerosol-generating substrate section based on heating without combustion as an example, the aerosol-generating substrate section is heated by an external heat source to a temperature just sufficient to emit the aerosol, without causing the combustion of the aerosol-generating substrate section. During use, the aerosol is released by heating the aerosol-generating substrate section.

In the related technology, the aerosol released by the aerosol-generating substrate section has a relatively high temperature, resulting in a scalding sensation when the user inhales the aerosol.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure relates to the field of aerosol generating technology, and in particular, to an aerosol generating article.

In view of the above, embodiments of the present disclosure aim to provide an aerosol generating article capable of reducing the temperature of the aerosol.

To achieve the above aim, the present disclosure provides an aerosol generating article, including:

• • an aerosol generating substrate section formed with at least one gas passage, the gas passage extends through at least one longitudinal end surface of the aerosol generating substrate section;
  • a functional section including a cooling section, a support section, and a filter section, the aerosol generating substrate section, the support section, the cooling section, and the filter section are arranged in sequence in a longitudinal direction;
  • an enclosure layer arranged around an outer periphery of the aerosol generating substrate section and an outer periphery of the functional section, at least one side hole is formed in a part of the enclosure layer located between the aerosol generating substrate section and the filter section.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a schematic view of a first aerosol generating article according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the first aerosol generating article shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a schematic view of a second aerosol generating article according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 4 is a schematic view of a third aerosol generating article according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 5 is a schematic view of a fourth aerosol generating article according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 6 is a schematic view of a fifth aerosol generating article according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 7 is a schematic view of a sixth aerosol generating article according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 8 is a schematic view of a seventh aerosol generating article according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 9 is a schematic view of an eighth aerosol generating article according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 10 is a schematic view of a ninth aerosol generating article according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 11 is a schematic view of a tenth aerosol generating article according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 12 is a schematic view of a corrugated structure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 13 is a schematic view of the corrugated structure shown in FIG. 12 from another viewing angle.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

It should be noted that, where there is no conflict, the embodiments and the technical features in the embodiments of the present disclosure may be combined with each other. The detailed description in the embodiments shall be construed as an explanatory description of the purpose of the present disclosure, and shall not be regarded as an undue restriction on the present disclosure.

In the present disclosure, the term “a plurality of” includes two and more than two. The unit “mm” refers to millimeter. The unit “C” refers to degree Celsius.

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, an embodiment of the present disclosure provides an aerosol generating article, which includes an aerosol generating substrate section 1, a functional section 2, and an enclosure layer 3.

The Functional section 2 includes a cooling section 21, a support section 22, and a filter section 23. The aerosol generating substrate section 1, the support section 22, the cooling section 21, and the filter section 23 are disposed sequentially in a longitudinal direction.

The enclosure layer 3 is arranged around an outer periphery of the aerosol generating substrate section 1 and an outer periphery of the functional section 2. In an example, the enclosure layer 3 is arranged around the outer peripheral surface of the aerosol generating substrate section 1 and the outer peripheral surface of the functional section 2. That is to say, the outer peripheries of the four components, namely the aerosol generating substrate section 1, the support section 22, the cooling section 21, and the filter section 23, are all enclosed by the enclosure layer 3. In the figures, the enclosure layer 3 is shown by a single layer. However, the enclosure layer 3 may be designed as a multiple-layer structure according to the design requirements and manufacturing process of the aerosol generating article. For example, during manufacturing, the support section 22, the cooling section 21, and the filter section 23 may first be enclosed by one layer of enclosure layer 3, and then enclosed together with the aerosol generating substrate section 1 by another layer of enclosure layer 3 (other combinations are also possible).

Further referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, a side hole 3a is formed in the portion of the enclosure layer 3 located between the aerosol generating substrate section 1 and the filter section 23. That is to say, the side hole 3a is positioned between the aerosol generating substrate section 1 and the filter section 23. The side hole 3a is configured to introduce external gas, such as air, into the interior of the aerosol generating article.

In the embodiment of the present disclosure, the aerosol generating substrate section 1 is configured to generate an aerosol through heating. For example, the aerosol generating substrate section 1 can be applied to generating an aerosol in the manner of heating without combustion. That is to say, the aerosol generating substrate section 1 is heated to a temperature below the ignition point to generate the aerosol, and the aerosol generating substrate section 1 does not burn during the process of generating the aerosol. In some application scenarios, the aerosol generating substrate section 1 can also be applied to generating an aerosol in the manner of combustion. However, in the present disclosure, the aerosol generating substrate section 1 is more commonly applied to generating an aerosol in the manner of heating without combustion.

The support section 22 can withstand the temperature of the aerosol from the aerosol generating substrate section 1 and maintain its shape. The support section 22 serves a supporting function.

The cooling section 21 is configured to reduce the temperature of the aerosol. In this way, the aerosol is suitable for user inhalation.

The filter section 23 is configured to filter the aerosol. For example, the filter section 23 can block substances of a target particle size and can also regulate inhalation resistance. For example, the filter section 23 may filter particles of large article size such as powdery substances. The aerosol filtered by the filter section 23 has higher consistency in particle size and a smoother texture.

The aerosol generating article is configured for users to inhale the aerosol generated by the aerosol generating substrate section 1. For example, the user may inhale the filtered aerosol through the filter section 23. The aerosol generated by the aerosol generating substrate section 1 flows through the support section 22 and the cooling section 21 sequentially under the action of inhalation negative pressure, and then is delivered to the filter section 23. That is to say, the functional section 2 is located at the downstream end of the aerosol generating substrate section 1 in the longitudinal direction.

For example, the heating temperature of the aerosol generating substrate section 1 is around 300° C. During inhalation, the temperature of the downstream end surface of the aerosol generating substrate section 1 is generally around 200° C., or even higher. When not inhaling, the temperature of the downstream end surface of the aerosol generating substrate section 1 drops sharply, for example, to around 100° C. The excessively high temperature during inhalation is likely to cause thermal shrinkage and deformation of the filter section 23, affecting the appearance and inhalation experience, and leading to a scalding sensation from the aerosol that makes inhalation impossible.

Referring to FIG. 2, the aerosol generating substrate section 1 is formed with at least one gas passage 1a, which passes through at least one longitudinal end surface of the aerosol generating substrate section 1. For example, the gas passage 1a passes through one longitudinal end of the aerosol generating substrate section 1. For another example, the air passage 1a passes through both longitudinal ends of the aerosol generating substrate section 1. Airflow can flow from one end of the aerosol generating substrate section 1 through the gas passage 1a to the other end thereof. The aerosol can flow more smoothly through the gas passage 1a, enabling orderly delivery with lower flow resistance and better controllability. This effectively improves the aerosol extraction efficiency and enhances the inhalation experience.

According to the aerosol generating article in the embodiment of the present disclosure, on one hand, the aerosol generated by the aerosol generating substrate section 1 flows through the support section 22, the cooling section 21, and the filter section 23 sequentially. The multi-section structure can extend the flow path of the aerosol, gradually reduce the temperature of the aerosol, and solve the problem of scalding sensation during inhalation. On the other hand, the side hole 3a is located between the aerosol generating substrate section 1 and the filter section 23, and the side hole 3a introduces external airflow into the interior of the aerosol generating article. This enables the aerosol accumulated between the aerosol generating substrate section 1 and the filter section 23 to flow rapidly to the filter section 23, thereby improving the aerosol extraction efficiency and the stability of aerosol release, and enhancing the inhalation experience; it can also reduce the temperature of the aerosol through the mixing and contact between the external airflow and the aerosol. Due to the inhalation negative pressure and the relatively high temperature of the substrate, the external airflow from the side hole 3a basically will not enter into the aerosol generating substrate section 1. Therefore, it has little impact on the aerosol generating substrate section 1, and can prevent the aerosol-generating substrate section 1 and external airflow from generating unwanted substances at the heating temperature, ensuring the purity of the aerosol.

The aerosol generating article is configured to be used in conjunction with an aerosol generating device having a heating element.

The aerosol generating device in the embodiment of the present disclosure is configured for the aerosol generating article according to any one of the embodiments of the present disclosure. The aerosol generating device includes a heating element, which is configured to heat the aerosol generating substrate section 1 to generate an aerosol.

The heating methods of the heating element include but are not limited to resistance heating, electromagnetic heating, infrared heating, microwave heating, laser heating, etc. Heat transfer in the form of thermal convection means that the heating element is not in contact with the aerosol generating substrate section 1; the heating element first heats the air, and then the hot air bakes and heats the aerosol generating substrate section 1. Thermal conduction means that the heating element is in contact with the aerosol generating substrate section 1 and conducts heat to the aerosol generating substrate section 1. For example, the resistance heating and the electromagnetic heating mainly transfer heat to the aerosol generating substrate section 1 in the form of thermal conduction or thermal convection. Infrared heating, microwave heating, or laser heating mainly transfer heat to the aerosol generating substrate section 1 in the form of thermal radiation. That is to say, the heating element can heat the aerosol generating substrate section 1 by means of one or more of the three forms: thermal conduction, thermal convection, and thermal radiation.

In one embodiment, the aerosol generating substrate section 1 is manufactured in one piece.

For example, the aerosol generating substrate section 1 may be manufactured one piece through processes such as injection molding, die casting, or extrusion. In this way, during the use of the aerosol generating substrate section 1, for example, when heated during inhalation or after heating is stopped, the aerosol generating substrate section remains an integral medium, making it less likely to experience disintegration and detachment.

Extrusion molding refers to a processing method in which the material undergoes interaction between the barrel and the extrusion screw of the extrusion device, and is heated and plasticized, and then conveyed by the extrusion screw toward the discharge port. Through an extrusion die (e.g., a die head), the material is formed into the aerosol generating substrate section 1 having a preset projection shape and corresponding pores.

It should be noted that the “longitudinal direction” refers to the extension direction of the aerosol generating substrate section 1. For example, in the case that the aerosol generating substrate section 1 is manufactured by extrusion molding, the longitudinal direction is the extrusion direction of the aerosol generating substrate section 1. The “projection shape” refers to the shape of the projection of the aerosol generating substrate section 1 on a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

In one embodiment, referring to FIGS. 2 to 11, the gas passage 1a is a linear gas passage 1a extending linearly in the longitudinal direction. The linear gas passage 1a is easy to form, which can reduce manufacturing difficulty. The flow resistance of the airflow inside the linear gas passage 1a is relatively low.

In one embodiment, referring to FIG. 2, a plurality of gas passages 1a may be provided.

In some embodiments, the end surface of the aerosol generating substrate section 1 away from the functional section 2 in the longitudinal direction may be self-sealed or sealed by the cooperation with the aerosol generating device. For example, the heating element may seal the end surface of the aerosol generating substrate section 1 away from the functional section 2 in the longitudinal direction. Alternatively, the end of the aerosol generating substrate section 1 away from the functional section 2 may be sealed by a blocking member. The outer peripheral surface of the aerosol generating substrate section 1 is enclosed by the enclosure layer 3. In this way, external air can hardly enter the aerosol generating substrate section 1 through the end surface away from the functional section 2 in the longitudinal direction, thereby enabling the aerosol generating substrate section 1 to be heated in a low-oxygen or even oxygen-free environment. The aerosol generating article remains in the low-oxygen or oxygen-free state during the entire inhalation process. By blocking or reducing the entry of air into the aerosol generating substrate section 1, it is possible to reduce heat dilution caused by air, improve heating efficiency, maintain the continuous stability of the temperature field in the heating cavity of the heating element, and further reduce the generation of harmful substances by reducing the participation of oxygen, thereby lowering the probability of carbonization of the aerosol generating substrate section 1.

In one embodiment, at least one of the outer peripheral surface of the cooling section 21 and the outer peripheral surface of the support section 22 is formed with a vent hole 2a, which is aligned with and in communication with the side hole 3a. Referring to FIGS. 2 to 4, if the side hole 3a is located at the position where the cooling section 21 is located, a vent hole 2a is formed in the portion of the outer peripheral surface of the cooling section 21 aligned with the side hole 3a. Referring to FIG. 5, if the side hole 3a is located at the position where the support section 22 is located, a vent hole 2a is formed in the portion of the outer peripheral surface of the support section 22 aligned with the side hole 3a. If the side hole 3a is located at the position where both the cooling section 21 and the support section 22 are situated, vent holes 2a are formed in both the outer peripheral surface of the cooling section 21 and the outer peripheral surface of the support section 22. The external airflow from the side hole 3a can enter the cooling section 21 and/or the support section 22 where the vent hole 2a is located through the vent hole 2a. The vent hole 2a facilitates the entry of external airflow into the interior of the cooling section 21 and/or the support section 22, thereby improving the extraction efficiency of the aerosol in the cooling section 21 and the support section 22.

It should be understood that the vent hole 2a being aligned with and in communication with the side hole 3a means that the projection of the side hole 3a on the outer peripheral surface of the cooling section 21 and/or the outer peripheral surface of the support section 22 at least partially or completely overlaps with the vent hole 2a.

In some embodiments, referring to FIGS. 2 to 6, at least one of the cooling section 21 and the support section 22 is formed with a hollow channel 2b extending through both longitudinal end surfaces.

In one embodiment, referring to FIGS. 2 to 5, the cooling section 21 is formed with a hollow channel 2b extending through both longitudinal end surfaces of the cooling section. The hollow channel 2b can increase the specific surface area, lengthen the length of the aerosol flow path, and achieve rapid temperature reduction and reduced inhalation resistance. For example, the cooling section 21 can reduce the temperature of the aerosol to below 50° C.

In another embodiment, referring to FIGS. 2 to 5, the support section 22 is formed with a hollow channel 2b extending through both longitudinal end surfaces of the support section. In yet another embodiment, both the cooling section 21 and the support section 22 are formed with hollow channels 2b. Both the hollow channel 2b of the support section 22 and aerosol can be accumulated in the hollow channel 2b of the cooling section 21, significantly enhancing the aerosol accumulation capacity, enabling stable release of the aerosol, ensuring good puff-by-puff consistency of the aerosol generating article, and further lengthening the length of the aerosol flow path to achieve rapid temperature reduction.

In some embodiments, referring to FIGS. 2 to 5, the central axis of the hollow channel 2b of the cooling section 21 coincides with the central axis of the hollow channel 2b of the support section 22. In this way, the aerosol from the hollow channel 2b of the support section 22 can enter the hollow channel 2b of the cooling section 21 along a substantially straight line.

In some embodiments, referring to FIG. 5, the hydraulic diameter of the hollow channel 2b of the support section 22 is greater than that of the hollow channel 2b of the cooling section 21. The velocity of the airflow in the hollow channel 2b of the cooling section 21 is relatively higher, which can enhance the aerosol extraction efficiency under the action of the venturi effect.

In some embodiments, referring to FIGS. 2 and 8, the hydraulic diameter of the hollow channel 2b of the support section 22 is less than or equal to that of the hollow channel 2b of the cooling section 21. That is to say, both the support section 22 and the cooling section 21 are formed with hollow channels 2b. In some embodiments, the hydraulic diameter of the hollow channel 2b of the support section 22 is equal to that of the hollow channel 2b of the cooling section 21. In other embodiments, the hydraulic diameter of the hollow channel 2b of the support section 22 is relatively smaller, which facilitates the rapid extraction of aerosol to the cooling section 21. The hollow channel 2b of the cooling section 21 has a larger hydraulic diameter, which can increase the volume of the hollow channel 2b of the cooling section 21 (i.e., lengthen the aerosol flow path), to achieve rapid temperature reduction. For example, the cooling section 21 can reduce the temperature of the aerosol to below 50° C.

It should be noted that the hydraulic diameter refers to the ratio of four times the area of the flow cross-section to the wetted perimeter. A flow cross-section refers to a cross-section taken in a direction perpendicular to the streamline cluster of the fluid. For example, if the shape of the flow cross-section of the hollow channel 2b is a regular quadrilateral, the hydraulic diameter is the ratio of four times the area of the flow cross-section of the regular quadrilateral hollow channel 2b to the perimeter of the regular quadrilateral. For another example, if the shape of the flow cross-section of the hollow channel 2b is circular, the hydraulic diameter is exactly equal to the diameter of the circular hollow channel 2b.

In some embodiments, referring to FIGS. 2 to 8, at least one vent hole 2a is formed in the portion of the outer peripheral surfaces of both the cooling section 21 and/or the support section 22 aligned with the side hole 3a, and the vent hole 2a is in communication with the side hole 3a and the hollow channel 2b. That is to say, at least one of the outer peripheral surface of the cooling section 21 and the outer peripheral surface of the support section 22 is formed with the vent hole 2a, which is aligned with and in communication with the side hole 3a. Specifically, the vent hole 2a passes through the wall of the hollow channel 2b. External airflow enters the hollow channel 2b through the side hole 3a and the vent hole 2a. In this way, the mixing of the external airflow and the aerosol can be accelerated, resulting in a greater release amount, faster release rate, and more stable release of the aerosol from the filter section 23.

The hollow channel 2b of the cooling section 21 is located in the central region of the cooling section 21. In some embodiments, referring to FIG. 2, the longitudinal central axis of the cooling section 21 passes through the hollow channel 2b disposed in the cooling section. Preferably, the central axis of the hollow channel 2b of the cooling section 21 coincides with the longitudinal central axis of the cooling section 21. Since the flow velocity of the fluid is faster the closer it is to the central region, the arrangement of the hollow channel 2b of the cooling section 21 in the central region ensures a relatively high flow velocity of the aerosol and a moderate inhalation resistance.

The hollow channel 2b of the support section 22 is located in the central region of the support section 22. In some embodiments, referring to FIG. 2, the longitudinal central axis of the support section 22 passes through the hollow channel 2b disposed in the support section. Preferably, the central axis of the hollow channel 2b of the support section 22 coincides with the longitudinal central axis of the support section 22. Since the flow velocity of the fluid is faster the closer it is to the central region, the arrangement of the hollow channel 2b of the support section 22 in the central region ensures a relatively high flow velocity of the aerosol and a moderate inhalation resistance.

The central axis refers to the line of symmetry of an axisymmetric graphic or a revolution graphic. That is to say, the cooling section 21, the support section 22, and the hollow channel 2b may each be an axisymmetric graphic or a rotational revolution graphic.

In some embodiments, referring to FIG. 8, at least one of the cooling section 21 and the support section 22 is formed with at least one side channel 2c extending through both longitudinal end surfaces, and the side channel 2c is located on the transverse outer side of the hollow channel 2b. The presence of the side channel 2c can provide more aerosol flow paths, reduce inhalation resistance, improve aerosol extraction efficiency, reduce the temperature of the aerosol, enhance the stability of aerosol release, and improve the user's inhalation experience.

For example, referring to FIGS. 12 and 13, the hollow channel 2b and multiple side channels 2c together form a corrugated structure 40.

For example, in one embodiment, the cooling section 21 is formed with a hollow channel 2b and a side channel 2c. The side channel 2c is located on the transverse outer side of the hollow channel 2b of the cooling section 21 and extends through both longitudinal end surfaces of the cooling section 21. In one embodiment, the support section 22 is formed with a hollow channel 2b and a side channel 2c. The side channel 2c is located on the transverse outer side of the hollow channel 2b of the support section 22 and extends through both longitudinal end surfaces of the support section 22.

It should be noted that the term “transverse” refers to a transverse direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. Taking the aerosol generating substrate section 1 in the shape of cylinder as an example, the transverse direction refers to the radial direction.

In some embodiments, a flavoring substance is provided in the side channel 2c. The flavoring substance can enrich or complement the flavor, and can reduce the temperature of the aerosol by absorbing heat during flavor release.

Generally, a flavoring substance refers to a substance contained in materials ingested into the oral cavity, that produces sensory impressions through sensory organs such as the tongue. The sensory impressions include physical sensation, chemical sensation, and psychological sensation. For example, the flavoring substance may be a flavor-carrying sheet, which comes into contact with the aerosol at 80° C. to 220° C., absorbs heat from the aerosol, and releases flavor, thereby reducing the temperature of the aerosol.

For example, the flavoring substance may be applied into the side channel 2c through injection or coating.

In some embodiments, referring to FIGS. 8, 12, and 13, there are a plurality of side channels 2c, which are distributed at intervals around the outer periphery of the hollow channel 2b. The plurality of side channels 2c can effectively alter the flow state of the aerosol, thereby enhancing the cooling effect.

In some embodiments, referring to FIG. 12, the corrugated structure 40 includes an outer ring layer, an inner ring layer, and a plurality of ridges. The outer ring layer is located on the transverse outer side of the inner ring layer, and both the outer ring layer and the inner ring layer are annular. The inner ring layer defines a central channel, and the ridges are disposed between the outer ring layer and the inner ring layer. The plurality of ridges are arranged at intervals in the circumferential direction, to divide the space between the outer ring layer and the inner ring layer into a plurality of side channels 2c. In this way, the cooling section 21 has good structural strength, and also facilitates the longitudinal circulation of the aerosol. For example, both the outer ring layer and the inner ring layer may be in the shape of a circular ring.

In some embodiments, referring to FIG. 3, the cooling section 21 may be in the form of the corrugated structure 40.

In some embodiments, referring to FIG. 10, the support section 22 may be in the form of the corrugated structure 40.

For example, in some embodiments, the vent hole 2a may only pass through the outer ring layer. That is to say, the vent hole 2a is in communication with the side channel 2c.

For example, in some embodiments, the vent hole 2a may pass through both the outer ring layer and the inner ring layer. That is to say, the vent hole 2a may be in communication with the hollow channel 2b.

In some embodiments, the hydraulic diameter of the side hole 3a ranges from 0.1 mm to 0.7 mm. For example, the hydraulic diameter of the side hole 3a may be 0.1 mm, 0.15 mm, 0.2 mm, 0.25 mm, 0.3 mm, 0.35 mm, 0.4 mm, 0.45 mm, 0.5 mm, 0.6 mm, or 0.7 mm, etc. In this way, the side hole 3a has little impact on the structural strength of the wrapping layer 3, and the air intake of a single side hole 3a is moderate.

In some embodiments, referring to FIG. 1, there is a plurality of side holes 3a, which are arranged at intervals in the circumferential direction to form an air intake group 3ab. External airflow can enter the aerosol generating article from multiple positions distributed in circumferential direction, enabling the external airflow to contact the aerosol at multiple angles and positions.

In some embodiments, referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, two side holes 3a form a pair of side holes 3a disposed on a straight line along the transverse direction. For example, the aerosol generating article is cylindrical, and the pair of side holes 3a are positioned diametrically opposed along the diameter of the aerosol-generating article.

In some embodiments, referring to FIG. 1, the number of air intake groups 3ab ranges from 1 to 7 (inclusive). In this way, while ensuring a moderate total air intake, the hydraulic diameter of a single side hole 3a can be designed to be relatively small.

In some embodiments, the number of side holes 3a in each air intake group 3ab ranges from 2 to 16. For example, the number of side holes 3a in each air intake group 3ab may be 2, 3, 5, 8, 10, 11, 15, or 16, etc. In this way, the side holes 3a can cover multiple position in the circumferential directions, and also ensure that the hydraulic diameter of a single side hole 3a is moderate.

In some embodiments, there are a plurality of air intake groups 3ab, which are arranged at intervals in the longitudinal direction, and the distance between two adjacent air intake groups 3ab is greater than or equal to 0.5 mm. For example, the distance between two adjacent air intake groups 3ab may be 0.5 mm, 0.6 mm, or 1 mm, etc. In this way, the plurality of air intake groups 3ab enable external airflow to be introduced at multiple positions in the longitudinal direction of the aerosol generating article. The distance between two adjacent air intake groups 3ab is moderate, thereby avoiding concentrated introduction of external airflow due to excessively small distance between the adjacent air intake groups, which concentrated introduction would cause airflow turbulence.

In some embodiments, a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction is used as a projection plane, the projection of the support section 22 on the projection plane coincides with the projection of the cooling section 21 on the same projection plane. For example, in one embodiment, referring to FIGS. 2 to 11, both the projection of the support section 22 and that of the cooling section 21 are circular and have the same outer diameter. In this way, it facilitates the assembly of the support section 22 and the cooling section 21 into the enclosure layer 3. In the case that the support section 22 abuts against the cooling section 21, the coincidence of their projections facilitates the support section 22 and the cooling section 21 to be formed through composite molding or twist-bonding molding.

In some embodiments, a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction is used as the projection plane, the projection of the filter section 23 on the projection plane, the projection of the support section 22 on the projection plane, the projection of the cooling section 21 on the projection plane, and the projection of the aerosol generating substrate section 1 on the projection plane coincide with one another. For example, in one embodiment, referring to FIGS. 2 to 11, the aerosol generating substrate section 1, the cooling section 21, the support section 22, and the filter section 23 are cylindrical structures with the same outer diameter. The central axes of the aerosol generating substrate section 1, the cooling section 21, the support section 22, and the filter section 23 coincide with one another and extend in the longitudinal direction. The cooling section 21 is formed with a hollow channel 2b extending through both of its longitudinal end surfaces. A plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction is used as the projection plane, the projection of the hollow channel 2b of the cooling section 21 on the projection plane is circular. That is to say, the projection of the filter section 23, the projection of the support section 22, the projection of the cooling section 21, and the projection of the aerosol generating substrate section 1 on the projection plane are circular and have the same outer diameter. In this way, it facilitates the assembly of the aforementioned structures into the enclosure layer 3. In this case, the aerosol generating article is also cylindrical, and the aforementioned longitudinal direction refers to the direction of the central axes of the aerosol generating substrate section 1, the cooling section 21, the support section 22, and the filter section 23.

In one embodiment, referring to FIG. 2, the support section 22 is formed with a hollow channel 2b extending through both longitudinal end surfaces of the support section, and the hydraulic diameter of the hollow channel 2b of the support section 22 is equal to that of the hollow channel 2b of the cooling section 21. In this way, the support section 22 can stably support the cooling section 21 and the aerosol generating substrate section 1.

In one embodiment, referring to FIG. 5, the filter section 23 is formed with a resistance-reducing channel 23a extending through at least one of the longitudinal ends of the filter section. For example, in one embodiment, the resistance-reducing channel 23a extends through one of the longitudinal ends of the filter section 23. In another embodiment, the resistance-reducing channel 23a extends through both of the longitudinal ends of the filter section 23. In this way, the resistance-reducing channel 23a may provide a lower filtering effect, further increase the aerosol release amount, and avoid excessively high overall inhalation resistance or excessive weight of the aerosol generating article.

The resistance-reducing channel 23a of the filter section 23 is located in its central region. In some embodiments, referring to FIG. 5, the central axis of the filter section 23 coincides with the central axis of the resistance-reducing channel 23a.

In one embodiment, referring to FIGS. 10 and 11, the enclosure layer 3 defines an empty space which is the cavity 3b, and the part of the wall of the enclosure layer 3 defining the cavity 3b is formed with the side hole 3a. That is to say, the peripheral wall of the cavity 3b is the enclosure layer 3. The empty space refers to a space dedicated solely to airflow circulation, in which no solid or liquid substances are placed. The side hole 3a is in communication with the cavity 3b and can introduce external airflow into the cavity 3b. The cavity 3b has a relatively large flow cross-sectional area, which can provide a larger flow cross-section for aerosol circulation. Aerosol can accumulate in the cavity 3b to increase the aerosol accumulation amount, thereby providing a sufficient aerosol source for the extraction and release of the aerosol.

In one embodiment, referring to FIG. 10, there is a cavity 3b between the filter section 23 and the cooling section 21. In this way, during the inhalation process, external airflow enters the cavity 3b through the side hole 3a and flows to the filter section 23 together with the aerosol from the cooling section 21.

In one embodiment, referring to FIG. 11, there is a cavity 3b between the cooling section 21 and the support section 22. In this way, during the inhalation process, external airflow enters the cavity 3b through the side hole 3a and flows to the cooling section 21 together with the aerosol from the support section 22.

In one embodiment, there are two said cavities 3b, one of which is provided between the filter section 23 and the cooling section 21, and another one of which is provided between the cooling section 21 and the support section 22.

In some embodiments, the support section 22 can withstand a temperature not higher than 270° C. That is to say, the support section 22 maintains its shape unchanged even at a temperature of 270° C. In this way, the support section 22 has the characteristic of high heat resistance, which can avoid the risks of thermal collapse, thermal deformation, and residues that may detach from the support section 22 blocking the gas passage 1a of the aerosol generating substrate section 1, and leading to unstable aerosol release.

In some embodiments, the support section 22 includes a base material and a metal coating. The base material is in an annular shape to form the hollow channel 2b, and the metal coating is applied to at least one of the inner surface and the outer surface of the base material in the transverse direction.

The metal coating includes but is not limited to at least one of aluminum foil, copper, and tin.

In some embodiments, the coating rate of the metal coating is greater than or equal to 5%. The coating rate refers to the ratio of the amount of metal coating per unit area on the inner surface or outer surface of the base material to the total amount of the metal coating and the base material.

In some embodiments, the hollowness of the support section 22 is greater than or equal to 30%. In this way, the support section 22 has a relatively high hollowness, which can reduce or prevent aerosol condensation in the support section 22. The hollowness refers to the ratio of the volume of the hollow channel 2b to the total volume of the support section 22.

In some embodiments, the support section 22 is formed with a plurality of airflow holes extending through both of the longitudinal end surfaces of the support section. The airflow holes are used for aerosol circulation.

In some embodiments, a cellulose acetate is a structure formed by tows arranged side by side at intervals in the circumferential direction. Referring to FIG. 11, the hollow cellulose acetate 10 means that the central region of the tows is hollow. Referring to FIG. 8, the solid cellulose acetate 20 means that there are only gaps between the tows, and no hollow region.

In some embodiments, the filter section 23 may be in the form of the hollow cellulose acetate 10 or the solid cellulose acetate 20, both of which can achieve targeted filtration of harmful components in the aerosol and adjustment of inhalation resistance. For example, the inhalation resistance capacity of the filter section 23 ranges from 100 Pa to 350 Pa (inclusive).

In some embodiments, the cooling section 21 is formed with a plurality of flow holes extending through both of longitudinal end surfaces of the cooling section. The flow holes are configured for aerosol circulation.

In some embodiments, both the cooling section 21 and the support section 22 may be integrally formed structures. For example, each of the cooling section 21 and the support section 22 may be integrally formed through processes such as extrusion, injection molding, or die casting.

In some embodiments, a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction is used as the projection plane, the projections of the filter section 23, the support section 22, the cooling section 21, and the aerosol generating substrate section 1 on the projection plane may each be circular, elliptical, or polygonal (e.g., square, rhombus, pentagon, etc.). That is to say, the filter section 23, the support section 22, the cooling section 21, and the aerosol generating substrate section 1 may each be cylindrical, prismatic, or the like.

In some embodiments, the shape of the flow cross-section of each of the aforementioned flow channels (the side holes 3a, vent holes 2a, hollow channels 2b, side channels 2c, gas passages 1a, resistance-reducing channels 23a, airflow holes, and flow holes) includes but is not limited to circular, elliptical, or polygonal (e.g., square, rhombus, pentagon, etc.).

In some embodiments, the gas passage 1a is a curved gas passage, and at least a part of the curved gas passage is curved with a non-zero curvature. The curved gas passage can greatly increase length of the flow path of the airflow without significantly increasing the length of the aerosol generating substrate section 1, which can increase the contact duration between the airflow and the wall surfaces of the curved gas passage, thereby improving the aerosol extraction rate.

In one embodiment, the curved gas passage is in a helical shape. That is to say, the three-dimensional shape of the curved gas passage is spatially helical. The line connecting any point on the helical curved gas passage to the starting point of the helical curved gas passage forms an inclination angle relative to the central axis of the helical curved gas passage. The helical curved gas passage can greatly increase the length of the flow path of the airflow, extract the aerosol from the aerosol generating substrate section 1 into the curved gas passage, and increase the flow velocity of the aerosol within the aerosol generating substrate section 1. This enhances the impact force of the airflow, enables the aerosol to be uniformly mixed, improves aerosol uniformity, and enhances the user's inhalation experience.

It should be noted that micropores may exist in the aerosol generating substrate section 1. For example, in the case of the aerosol generating substrate section 1 formed as a particle aggregate, the gaps between particles form the micropores. However, the gas passage 1a described in the present disclosure is different from the micropores: the gas passage 1a is a macroscopic pore, while the micropore is a microscopic pore, and the dimensions of the gas passage 1a, such as flow cross-sectional area and length, are much larger than those of the micropore. The gas passage 1a is mainly formed through designed processing, such as die processing. Therefore, the dimensions of the gas passage, including flow cross-sectional area and length, can be adjusted according to design requirements. In contrast, the dimensions of the micropore are determined by the gaps between particles. For instance, in the case of granular material, the aerosol generating substrate section 1 formed by material extrusion has micropores, and the dimensions of the micropores such as flow cross-sectional area and length are naturally formed through the extrusion process and material composition. After the material flows out of the die orifice from the feed cylinder, a certain degree of expansion occurs, which can form the micropores.

Specific embodiments are schematically presented below, with detailed descriptions as follows.

In the first embodiment, referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the aerosol generating substrate section 1 is provided with a plurality of linear gas passages 1a extending in the longitudinal direction. The support section 22 abuts against the downstream end surface of the aerosol generating substrate section 1, the cooling section 21 abuts against the downstream end surface of the support section 22, and the filter section 23 abuts against the downstream end surface of the cooling section 21. Each of the support section 22 and the cooling section 21 is formed with a hollow channel 2b, and the hydraulic diameter of the hollow channel 2b of the support section 22 is equal to the hydraulic diameter of the hollow channel 2b of the cooling section 21. The side hole is located at the cooling section 21, and the vent hole 2a is formed at the part of the outer peripheral surface of the cooling section 21 aligned with the side hole 3a. The vent hole 2a fluidly connects the hollow channel 2b of the cooling section 21 with the side hole 3a. The filter section 23 is formed by solid cellulose acetate 20. The cooling section 21 is a paper tubular structure 30 having a hollow channel 2b. The support section 22 is an aluminum foil tubular structure 50 having a hollow channel 2b.

It should be noted that each of the gas passages 1a in the first embodiment may be a curved gas passage, such as a helical gas passage 1a, and the hydraulic diameter of the hollow channel 2b of the support section 22 may not be equal to the hydraulic diameter of the hollow channel 2b of the cooling section 21.

Taking the aerosol generating article shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 as an example, when the aerosol generating substrate section 1 is heated, the aerosol released by the medium of the aerosol generating substrate section 1 forming the gas passage 1a directly converges into the gas passage 1a. Additionally, the aerosol generating substrate section 1 also has micropores inside, and the micropores are at least partially in communication with each other and with the gas passage 1a. The aerosol generated after the aerosol generating substrate section 1 is heated can also converge into the gas passage 1a through the micropores. During the inhalation process, the aerosol generating substrate section 1 is heated to generate aerosol, the aerosol generated at the part of the aerosol generating substrate section 1 defining the gas passage 1a can directly enter the gas passage 1a, and the aerosol generated at the part of the aerosol generating substrate section 1 located around the gas passage 1a can enter the gas passage 1a through the micropores. The airflow in the gas passage 1a flows in the longitudinal direction and toward the functional sections. That is to say, the aerosol from the aerosol generating substrate section 1 passes through the support section 22, the cooling section 21, and the filter section 23 in sequence, and finally enters the user's oral cavity.

The second embodiment shown in to FIG. 3 is different from the first embodiment in that: the hydraulic diameter of the hollow channel 2b of the support section 22 is larger than the hydraulic diameter of the hollow channel 2b of the cooling section 21. The support section 22 is a paper tubular structure 30 having the hollow channel 2b. The wall thickness of the outer peripheral edge of the support section 22 is less than or equal to the wall thickness of the aerosol generating substrate section 1. In this way, the cooling section 21 can withstand a temperature not higher than 200° C. without thermal collapse, deformation, or the like. The cooling section 21 is a corrugated structure 40 having a hollow channel 2b and a plurality of side channels 2c. The plurality of side channels 2c can change the flow state of the aerosol and reduce the temperature of the aerosol.

The third embodiment shown in FIG. 4 is different from the second embodiment in that: the support section 22 is a hollow cellulose acetate 10 having a hollow channel 2b. The hollowness of the hollow channel 2b of the support section 22 is greater than or equal to 20%. Preferably, the hollowness of the hollow channel 2b of the support section 22 ranges from 35% to 40% (inclusive). In this way, the ratio of the volume of the tows to the total volume of the support section 22 is approximately 40%, which can prevent deformation and facilitate support. The cooling section 21 is a hollow cellulose acetate 10 having a hollow channel 2b. The hydraulic diameter of the hollow channel 2b of the cooling section 21 is smaller than the hydraulic diameter of the hollow channel 2b of the support section 22. On one hand, this facilitates processing and molding, simplifies the demand for material diversification, and reduces material selection costs. On the other hand, the varying diameter design of the hollow channel 2b of the cooling section 21 and the hollow channel 2b of the support section 22 enables the aerosol to be rapidly extracted into the cooling section 21 through the venturi effect caused by the varying diameter design, to achieve the cooling of the aerosol. For example, the temperature of the aerosol drops from 180° C. to 220° C. (inclusive) at the aerosol generating substrate section 1 to 80° C. to 100° C. It can also effectively improve the aerosol extraction efficiency and exert a relatively significant advantage in the puff-by-puff aerosol release consistency.

The fourth embodiment shown in FIG. 5 is different from the third embodiment in that: each side hole 3a is located at the support section 22, and each vent hole 2a is formed at a part of the outer peripheral surface of the support section 22 aligned with a respective one of the side hole 3a. Each vent hole 2a is in communication with the hollow channel 2b of the support section 22 and the side hole 3a. The support section 22 is a hollow paper tubular structure 30 having a hollow channel 2b. The filter section 23 is a hollow cellulose acetate 10 having a resistance-reducing channel 23a. The inhalation resistance capacity of the filter section 23 ranges from 100 Pa to 250 Pa (inclusive).

The fifth embodiment shown in FIG. 6 is different from the fourth embodiment in that: each side hole 3a is located at the cooling section 21, and the cooling section 21 is formed by solid cellulose acetate 20, that is, the cooling section 21 has no hollow channel 2b. In this way, the cooling section 21 can withstand thermal collapse, deformation, etc., and play a supporting role when the temperature of the aerosol is not higher than 150° C. The adjustable inhalation resistance of the cooling section 21 ranges from 100 Pa to 350 Pa (inclusive), enabling the overall inhalation resistance of the aerosol generating article to range from 600 Pa to 1200 Pa (inclusive). The cooling section 21 can further enhance the pre-filtration of large particles, oily substances, and other materials released from the upstream aerosol generating substrate section 1, reduce the filtration pressure of the filter section 23, and improve inhalation safety. Each vent holes 2a is formed at a part of the outer peripheral surface of the cooling section 21 aligned with a respective one of the side holes 3a. The support section 22 is a hollow cellulose acetate 10 having a hollow channel 2b. The hollowness of the hollow channel 2b of the support section 22 is greater than or equal to 30%. In this way, on the premise of meeting the supporting function, the accumulation space of the support section 22 is increased, providing more accumulation space for the aerosol.

The sixth embodiment shown in FIG. 7 is different from the fifth embodiment in that: the support section 22 is a corrugated structure 40 having a hollow channel 2b and a plurality of side channels 2c.

The seventh embodiment shown in FIG. 8 is different from the sixth embodiment in that: the filter section 23 is formed by the solid cellulose acetate 20. The cooling section 21 is a hollow cellulose acetate 10 having a hollow channel 2b. The hydraulic diameter of the hollow channel 2b of the support section 22 is smaller than the hydraulic diameter of the hollow channel 2b of the cooling section 21.

The eighth embodiment shown in FIG. 9 is different from the seventh embodiment in that: the support section 22 is formed with a plurality of airflow holes extending through both of the longitudinal end surfaces of the support section. The filter section 23 is a hollow cellulose acetate 10 having a resistance-reducing channel 23a. The hollowness of the hollow channel 2b of the cooling section 21 is greater than or equal to 75%, which increases the volume of the hollow channel 2b of the cooling section 21 and thus increases the flow path of the aerosol, to achieve rapid cooling. Additionally, the cooling section 21 has a thinner wall thickness, which facilitates the formation of the vent hole 2a.

The ninth embodiment shown in FIG. 10 is different from the eighth embodiment in that: a cavity 3b is provided between the filter section 23 and the cooling section 21, and each side hole 3a is formed on a part of the wall surface of the enclosure layer 3 forming the cavity 3b. The cooling section 21 is formed with a plurality of flow holes extending through both of the longitudinal end surfaces of the cooling section. The support section 22 is a corrugated structure 40 having a hollow channel 2b and a plurality of side channels 2c. The hydraulic diameter of flow holes is greater than or equal to the hydraulic diameter of the gas passages 1a, and the number of the flow holes is less than or equal to that of the gas passages 1a. In this way, the overall inhalation resistance can be adjusted by adjusting the number and hydraulic diameter of the flow holes, etc., and a good cooling effect is achieved. The hollowness of the resistance-reducing channel 23a of the filter section is less than or equal to 45%, which is conducive to the rapid extraction of aerosol and stable puff-by-puff inhalation.

In the tenth embodiment shown in FIG. 11 is different from the ninth embodiment in that: the cavity 3b is located between the cooling section 21 and the support section 22. The aerosol flows through the support section 22 and is cooled as the flavoring substance absorbs heat. Then, the aerosol enters the cavity 3b and is pre-cooled at the cavity 3b by external airflow (for example, cooled to below 130° C.), thereby alleviating the cooling burden of the downstream cooling section 21. Subsequently, the aerosol enters the cooling section 21 for further cooling, and the temperature of the cooled aerosol is less than 55° C. Finally, the aerosol is inhaled through the filter section 23 formed by the hollow cellulose acetate 10.

The cooling material of the cooling section 21 includes but is not limited to one or more of the following materials: PE (Polyethylene), PLA (Polylactic Acid), PBAT (Polybutylene Adipate Terephthalate), PP (Polypropylene), cellulose acetate, and polypropylene fiber, etc.

The filter material of the filter section 23 includes but is not limited to one or more of the following materials: PE (Polyethylene), PLA (Polylactic Acid), PBAT (Polybutylene Adipate Terephthalate), PP (Polypropylene), cellulose acetate, polypropylene fiber, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), etc.

The material of the cooling section 21 may be the same as or different from the material of the filter section 23.

In one embodiment, the aerosol generating substrate section 1 includes plant raw material, additive raw material, smoke agent raw material, binder raw material, and flavor raw material.

The plant raw material is used to generate aerosol when heated. The additive raw material is used to provide support skeleton for the plant raw materials. The smoke agent raw material is used to produce a large amount of smoke when heated. The binder raw material is used to bond the component raw materials. The flavor raw material is used to provide the characteristic aroma. In this way, the plant raw material and smoke agent raw material can ensure the aerosol production volume, while the flavor raw material can enhance the release of aroma during the inhalation process and improve the user experience. The additive raw material can improve the fluidity of the mixed material, and enable the aerosol generating substrate section 1 to form a porous structure to facilitate the extraction and flow of aerosol. The binder raw material ensures that the powder of the plant raw material, the additive and other components form a stable mixture, avoiding structural looseness.

In one embodiment, the plant raw material is the powder formed by crushing treatment of one or more of tobacco leaf raw materials, tobacco leaf fragments, tobacco stems, tobacco dust, aromatic plants, etc. The plant raw material is the core source of aroma, and the endogenous substance in the plant raw material can give users the physiological satisfaction. For example, the endogenous substance, such as alkaloid, enters the human bloodstream and promotes the pituitary gland to produce dopamine, thereby achieving physiological satisfaction.

In one embodiment, the additive raw material may be one or more of inorganic filler, lubricant, and emulsifier. Among them, the inorganic filler includes one or more of ground calcium carbonate, precipitated calcium carbonate, zeolites, attapulgite, talc powder, and diatomaceous earth. The inorganic filler can provide support skeleton for the plant raw material, and the inorganic filler has micropores, which can improve the porosity of the aerosol generating substrate section 1, thereby increasing the aerosol release rate.

The lubricant includes one or more of candelilla wax, carnauba wax, shellac, sunflower wax, rice bran wax, beeswax, stearic acid, and palmitic acid. The lubricant can increase the fluidity of the plant raw material powder, reduce the friction force between the plant raw material powder particles, enable the overall distribution density of the plant raw material powder to be relatively uniform, and also reduce the pressure required during the extrusion molding process and minimize the wear of the die.

The emulsifier includes one or more of polyglycerol fatty acid ester, Tween-80, and polyvinyl alcohol. To a certain extent, the emulsifier can reduce the loss of flavor substances during the storage process, enhance the stability of the flavor substance, and improve the sensory quality of the product.

In one embodiment, the smoke agent raw material may include one or more of: monohydric alcohol (e.g., menthol), polyhydric alcohol (e.g., propylene glycol, glycerol, triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol, and tetraethylene glycol), ester of polyhydric alcohol (e.g., glyceryl triacetate, triethyl citrate, mixture of glyceryl diacetates, triethyl citrate, benzyl benzoate, glyceryl tributyrate), monocarboxylic acid, dicarboxylic acid, polycarboxylic acid (e.g., lauric acid, myristic acid), and aliphatic ester of polycarboxylic acids (e.g., dimethyl dodecanedioate, dimethyl tetradecanedioate, erythritol, 1,3-butanediol, tetraethylene glycol, triethyl citrate, propylene carbonate, ethyl laurate, Triactin, meso-erythritol, mixture of glyceryl diacetates, diethyl suberate, triethyl citrate, benzyl benzoate, benzyl phenylacetate, ethyl vanillate, glyceryl tributyrate, lauryl acetate).

In one embodiment, the binder raw material comes into close contact with the component raw materials through interfacial wetting, generating intermolecular attraction, thereby functioning to bond the component raw materials such as powders, liquids, etc. The binder raw material may be non-ionic modified viscous polysaccharide extracted from natural plants, including one or more of tamarind polysaccharide, guar gum, and modified cellulose (e.g., carboxymethyl cellulose). The binder is used to bond particles together, preventing them from loosening. In addition, it improves the water resistance of the aerosol generating substrate section 1 and is harmless to the human body.

In one embodiment, the flavor raw materials are used to provide solid or liquid substance of characteristic aromas (e.g., hay-like aroma, roasted sweet aroma, nicotine). The flavor raw material may include one or more of tobacco, extract of aromatic plants, extractum, essential oils, and absolutes; the flavor raw material also may include monomeric flavor substance, such as one or more of megastigmatrienone, neophytadiene, geraniol, nerolidol, etc.

In the description of the present disclosure, the description referring to terms such as “in one embodiment”, “in some embodiments”, “in other embodiments”, “in still other embodiments”, or “for example” means that the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described in connection with the embodiment or example are included in at least one embodiment or example of the present disclosure. In the present disclosure, the schematic expressions of the above terms are not necessarily directed to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in a suitable manner in any one or more embodiments or examples. In addition, without mutual contradiction, those skilled in the art may combine different embodiments or examples described in the present disclosure as well as the features of different embodiments or examples.

The above descriptions are only preferred embodiments of the present disclosure and are not intended to limit the present disclosure. For those skilled in the art, the present disclosure may have various modifications and variations. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of the present disclosure shall all be included in the protection scope of the present disclosure.