A COMPONENT FOR A DELIVERY SYSTEM AND A METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR MANUFACTURING A COMPONENT FOR A DELIVERY SYSTEM
The present disclosure relates to a component for a delivery system. The component comprises a sheet material that is arranged into a body of material and at least one additive capsule incorporated with the body such that, in use, the additive capsule is breakable upon the application of a force to the body by a user. The present disclosure also relates to a method and apparatus for manufacturing a component for a delivery system.
The present disclosure relates to a component for a delivery system and to a delivery system comprising the same. The present disclosure also relates to a method and apparatus for manufacturing a component for a delivery system.
BACKGROUNDIt is known in the art to provide a cigarette with a capsule containing flavourant. During use, the user may break the capsule to release flavourant into smoke flowing through the cigarette. Therefore, the user is able to selectively add flavourant to the smoke.
SUMMARYAccording to the present disclosure, there is provided a component for a delivery system, the component comprising a sheet material that is arranged into a body of material and at least one additive capsule incorporated with the body such that, in use, the additive capsule is breakable upon the application of a force to the body by a user.
In some embodiments, the component comprises a plurality of additive capsules incorporated with the body such that, in use, the additive capsules are breakable upon the application of a force to the body by a user.
In some embodiments, the component further comprises a plurality of particles incorporated with the body such that, in use, the particles promote breaking of the additive capsule(s) upon the application of said external force to the body by a user.
In some embodiments, the additive capsules/particles being incorporated with the body may mean that the additive capsules/particles are disposed within the body or disposed on an outer surface of the body.
In some embodiments, the particles comprise a material having a particle density of at least 1 g/cc.
In some embodiments, the body is a plug.
In some embodiments, the particles comprise a plasticiser.
In some embodiments, the particles comprise a polymeric material and, preferably, plastic.
In some embodiments, the particles comprise cellulose acetate and, preferably, comprise cellulose acetate chips.
In some embodiments, the sheet material comprises paper.
In some embodiments, the sheet material is folded to form the body.
In some embodiments, the sheet material has a thickness of at least 30 micrometres and, preferably, at least 40, 50, 60, 70 or 80 micrometres.
In some embodiments, the sheet material has a thickness of less than 130 micrometres and, preferably, less than 120, 110, 100, 90 or 80 micrometres.
In some embodiments, the sheet material has a basis weight of at least 15 gsm and, preferably, at least 20, 25, or 30 gsm.
In some embodiments, the sheet material has a basis weight of less than 100 gsm and, preferably, less than 90, 80, 70, 60, 55, 50, 45 or 40 gsm.
In some embodiments, the additive capsule(s) and/or particles are attached to the sheet material and, preferably, are attached to the sheet material by adhesive or static.
In some embodiments, the additive capsule(s) and/or particles are retained within folds of the sheet material and, preferably, the folds comprise Miura folds.
1 In some embodiments, the additive capsule(s) and/or particles are retained in the body by formations of the sheet material and, preferably, the formations comprise depressions or protuberances of the sheet material.
In some embodiments, the depressions may be dimples or grooves.
In some embodiments, the formations may be formed by, for example, embossing or crimping the sheet material.
In some embodiments, the particles are generally cylindrical.
In some embodiments, the component is a component for a combustible aerosol provision system, a non-combustible aerosol provision system or an aerosol-free provision system.
According to the present disclosure, there is also provided a delivery system comprising a component as described herein.
In some embodiments, the delivery system is a combustible aerosol provision system, a non-combustible aerosol provision system or an aerosol-free provision system.
In some embodiments, the component has a diameter greater than 7.5 mm and, preferably, a diameter of about 8 mm.
The sheet material may comprise at least one fold to form the body. In some embodiments, the sheet material comprises a plurality of folds.
In some embodiments, the particles comprise one or more surface formations configured to promote breaking of the additive capsule(s).
In some embodiments, the particles have an average surface area of less than 50 square metres per gram and, preferably, less than 30, 20, 10, 5 or 3 square metres per gram.
In some embodiments, the particles are formed from a material having a Rockwell hardness of at least 25 on the R-Scale and, preferably, at least 30, at least 40, at least 50, at least 60, at least 70, at least 80, at least 90, or at least 100 on the R-Scale.
In some embodiments, the additive capsule(s) and/or particles are incorporated with the sheet material.
In some embodiments, the particles have a ball-pan hardness of greater than 95% and, preferably, greater than 96%, 97%, 98% or 99%.
In some embodiments, at least some of the particles do not comprise activated carbon.
In some embodiments, the additive capsule(s) have a diameter of between 0.6 and 1.4 mm and, optionally, a diameter of about 1 mm.
In some embodiments, the additive capsule(s) have a diameter of between 0.8 and 1.2 mm.
In some embodiments, the particles have a particle size of between 0.6 and 2.4 mm and, preferably, a particle size of between 0.8 to 2 mm.
In some embodiments, the particles have a particle size of between 1.2 to 2.4 mm and, preferably, a particle size of between 1.4 to 2 mm.
In some embodiments, the particles 12 have a particle size in the range of 1.2 to 1.8 mm.
In some embodiments, the particles are regular shape. For example, generally cylindrical particles. Length of 1.5 mm and diameter of 1.5 mm. Alternatively, particles may be irregular.
In some embodiments, the tobacco industry product component comprises between 20 and 100 additive capsules and, preferably, between 30 and 50 additive capsules.
In some embodiments, the additive capsules have an average burst strength of between 3 N and 5 N and, preferably, between 3.5 N and 4.5N.
In some embodiments, the body has a length of between 4 and 12 mm and, preferably, has a length of between 6 and 10 mm.
In some embodiments, the component further comprises first and second segments located on opposite sides of the body of material.
In some embodiments (not shown), the sheet material comprises formations to promote rupture of the additive capsule(s). The sheet material may have protrusions that promote rupture of the additive capsule(s), and may comprise points, edges or flats that promote rupture of the additive capsule(s). The formations may be formed, for example, by embossing the sheet material.
In some embodiments, the component further comprises a body wrap; the body wrap comprises an impermeable coating; the body wrap has a basis weight of at least 60 gsm; the body wrap has a thickness of at least 35 micrometres; further comprising an outer surface comprising an indicator configured to indicate to the user where the external force should be applied to the component.
According to the present disclosure, there is also provided a method of manufacturing a component for a delivery system, the method comprising: supplying at least one additive capsule to a sheet material; and, arranging the sheet material into a body such that the additive capsule is incorporated with the body and, in use, the additive capsule is breakable upon the application of a force to the body by a user.
In some embodiments, the method comprises supplying a plurality of additive capsules to the sheet material.
In some embodiments, the method further comprises combining a plurality of particles with the sheet material such that, when the sheet material is arranged into the body the particles are incorporated with the body and, in use, the particles promote breakage of the additive capsule(s) upon the application of a force to the body by a user.
In some embodiments, the method comprises attaching the additive capsule(s) and/or particles to the sheet material and, preferably, attaching the additive capsule(s) and/or particles using adhesive and/or static electricity.
In some embodiments, the method comprises applying adhesive to the sheet material and or the additive capsules/particles. Optionally, the adhesive is applied by spraying the adhesive.
In some embodiments, the method comprises folding the sheet material such that the additive capsule(s) and/or particles are retained within folds in the sheet material and, preferably, wherein at least some of the folds comprise Miura folds.
In some embodiments, the method comprises gathering the sheet material into a body such that additive capsules are retained in folds.
In some embodiments, the method comprises forming formations in the sheet material such that the additive capsule(s) and/or particles are retained in the body by the formations and, preferably, the formations comprise depressions or protuberances.
In some embodiments, the formations are formed by embossing or crimping the sheet material].
According to the present disclosure, there is also provided an apparatus for manufacturing a component for a delivery system, the apparatus comprising: a feeding system configured to supply at least one additive capsule to a sheet material; and, a body forming device configured to arrange the sheet material into a body such that, in use of the component, the additive capsule is breakable upon the application of a force to the body by a user.
In some embodiments, the feeding system is configured to supply a plurality of additive capsules to the sheet material.
In some embodiments, the feeding system is configured to supply particles to the sheet material such that, when the sheet material is arranged into the body, the particles promote breakage of the additive capsule(s) upon the application of a force to the body by a user.
In some embodiments, the feeding system is configured to attach the additive capsule(s) and/or particles to the sheet material and, preferably, comprises an adhesive applicator and/or static electricity generator.
In some embodiments, the adhesive applicator is configured to applying adhesive to the sheet material and or the additive capsules/particles. Optionally, the adhesive applicator is configured to spray the adhesive.
In some embodiments, the body forming device is configured to gather the sheet material such that the additive capsule(s) and/or particles are retained within folds in the sheet material.
In some embodiments, the apparatus further comprises a folding device configured to fold the sheet material such that the additive capsule(s) and/or particles are retained within folds in the sheet material and, preferably, wherein the folding device is configured to form Miura folds in the sheet material.
In some embodiments, the apparatus includes a formation forming device configured to form formations in the sheet material such that that the additive capsule(s) and/or particles may be received in or against the formations and, preferably, the formations comprise depressions or protuberances.
Embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of non-limiting example only, with reference to the drawings, in which:
Referring now to
In the present embodiment, the delivery system 1 is a combustible aerosol provision system 1. However, in alternative embodiments (not shown), the delivery system 1 is of an arrangement other than a combustible aerosol provision system 1. For example, the delivery system 1 may be a non-combustible aerosol provision system (not shown) or an aerosol-free delivery system (not shown).
The combustible aerosol provision system 1 comprises a tobacco rod 2 and a component 3 for a delivery system which, in the present example, is a component 3 for a combustible aerosol provision system 1.
An outer wrap 4 circumscribes the component 3 and a portion of the tobacco rod 2. The outer wrap 4 comprises a tipping paper 4 that attaches the tobacco rod 2 to the component 3. The tobacco rod 2 comprises a column of smokeable material 5 circumscribed by a rod wrapper 6.
In the present embodiment, the component 3 is a filter 3. The component 3 comprises first, second and third segments 7, 8, 9.
The first segment 7 comprises a sheet material 10 and a plurality of additive capsules 11 and a plurality of particles 12.
The sheet material 10 is arranged into a plug 10A. In some embodiments, the plug 10A is generally cylindrical. However, a skilled person will recognise that other shapes are possible.
In the present embodiment, the sheet material 10 comprises paper. However, it should be recognised that in other embodiments the sheet material 10 comprises a different material, for example, plastic. In some embodiments, the sheet material 10 comprises a fibre woven, or otherwise formed, into a sheet.
The sheet material 10, for example, paper, may have a thickness of at least 30 micrometres (μm). In some embodiments, the sheet material 10 has a thickness of at least 40, 50, 60, 70 or 80 micrometres.
The sheet material 10, for example, paper, may have a thickness of less than 130 micrometres (μm). In some embodiments, the sheet material 10 has a thickness of less than 120, 110, 100, 90 or 80 micrometres.
In some embodiments, the sheet material 10 has a thickness in the range of 30 to 130 micrometres. In some embodiments, the sheet material 10 has a thickness in the range of 40 to 120, in the range of 50 to 110 micrometres, in the range of 60 to 100 micrometres, or in the range of 70 to 90 micrometres. In some embodiments, the sheet material 10 has a thickness in the range of 80 to 90 micrometres. In one embodiment, the sheet material 10 has a thickness of about 85 micrometres.
The sheet material 10, for example, paper, may have a basis weight of at least 15 GSM.
In some embodiments, the sheet material 10 has a basis weight of at least 20, 25, 30 GSM. In some embodiments, the sheet material 10 has a basis weight of at least 32.5 GSM.
The sheet material 10, for example, paper, may have a basis weight of less than 100 GSM. In some embodiments, the sheet material 10 has a basis weight of less than 90, 80, 70, 60, 55, 50, 45 or 40 GSM. In some embodiments, the sheet material 10 has a basis weight of less than 37.5 GSM.
The sheet material 10, for example, paper, may have a basis weight in the range of 15 to 100 GSM. In some embodiments, the sheet material 10 has a basis weight in the range of 20 to 50 GSM, in the range of 25 to 45 GSM, or in the range of 30 to 40 GSM. In one embodiment, the sheet material 10 has a basis weight in the range of 32.5 to 37.5 GSM.
In one embodiment, the sheet material 10 has a basis weight of about 35 GSM or about 36 GSM.
The sheet material 10 may have a width of in the range of 4 to 12 mm and, preferably, in the range of 6 to 10 mm. However, in other embodiments the sheet material 10 has a different width. In one embodiment, the sheet material 10 has a length in the range of 4 to 8 mm and, preferably, in the range of 5 to 7 mm and, preferably, about 6 mm. In another embodiment, the sheet material 10 has a length in the range of 8 to 12 mm and, preferably, in the range of 9 to 11 mm and, preferably, about 10 mm. The width of the sheet material 10 is depicted by arrow ‘X’ in
In the present embodiment, the sheet material 10 comprises paper that is gathered together such that the plug 10A is a ‘paper filter’ or ‘crepe filter’. The sheet material 10 may filter gas flow as it passes through the plug 10A.
The second and third segments 8, 9 comprise first and second plugs 8, 9 of filtration material, for example, cellulose acetate. It should be recognised that one or both of the first and second segments 8, 9 may be omitted.
The first, second and third segments 7, 8, 9 may be generally cylindrical in shape, although a skilled person would recognise that other shapes are possible.
The first, second and third segments 7, 8, 9 are axially aligned. The first segment 7 is located between the first and second segments 8, 9. The third segment 9 is located downstream of, and adjacent with, the tobacco rod 2. The first segment 7 is located downstream of, and adjacent with, the third segment 9. The second segment 8 is located downstream of, and adjacent with, the first segment 7. The second segment 8 may be at the mouth end of the component 3.
The first segment 7 has an axial length (depicted by arrow ‘X’ in
In one embodiment, the first segment 7 has a length in the range of 4 to 8 mm and, preferably, in the range of 5 to 7 mm and, preferably, about 6 mm. In another embodiment, the first segment 7 has a length in the range of 8 to 12 mm and, preferably, in the range of 9 to 11 mm and, preferably, about 10 mm.
The second segment 8 has an axial length in the range of 3 to 9 mm and, preferably, in the range of 4 to 8 mm, and, preferably, in the range of 5 to 7 mm. However, in other embodiments, the second segment 8 has a different length. In one embodiment, the second segment 8 has a length of about 5 mm or about 7 mm.
The third segment 9 has an axial length in the range of 3 to 9 mm and, preferably, in the range of 4 to 8 mm, and preferably, in the range of 5 to 7 mm. However, in other embodiments, the third segment 9 has a different length. In one embodiment, the third segment 9 has a length of about 5 mm or about 7 mm.
In some embodiments, the second and third segments 8, 9 are of equal axial length.
In one embodiment, the first segment 7 has an axial length of about 6 mm and the second and third segments 8, 9 each have an axial length of about 7 mm.
In another embodiment, the first segment 7 has an axial length of about 10 mm and the second and third segments 8, 9 each have an axial length of about 5 mm.
In some embodiments, a tube filter 21 is provided downstream of the second segment 8 and may have an axial length in the range of 5 to 9 mm, preferably in the range of 6 to 8 mm and, preferably, about 7 mm.
The first segment 7 of the component 3 contains a plurality of additive capsules 11 and a plurality of particles 12.
The sheet material 10 is folded to form the plug 10A such that the plurality of additive capsules 11 and plurality of particles 12 are retained within the folds. In some embodiments, the sheet material 10 may be formed into the plug 10A using a CU-20 machine manufactured by Decouflé™. However, a skilled person will recognise that other apparatus may be used to arrange the sheet material 10 into a plug, for example, apparatus that are known for the manufacture of ‘paper filters’ and ‘crepe filters’.
Optionally, the sheet material 10 is crimped, for example, prior to the additive capsules 11 and particles 12 being supplied to the sheet material 10. The crimping may make it easier to arrange the sheet material 10 into the plug 10A.
The additive capsules 11 and particles 12 may be applied to the sheet material 10 prior to, or at the same time as, the sheet material 10 being formed into the plug 10A. In some embodiments, the additive capsules 11 and particles 12 are attached to the sheet material 10.
For example, the additive capsules 11 and particles 12 may be attached to the sheet material 10 by an adhesive. The adhesive may be applied to the sheet material 10 and/or the additive capsules 11 and particles 12. The adhesive may be sprayed on the sheet material 10 and/or the additive capsules 11 and particles 12, or may be applied using a brush or roller.
In another embodiment, the additive capsules 11 and particles 12 are attached to the sheet material 10 using static electricity. That is, the sheet material 10 and/or the additive capsules 11 and particles 12 are given a static charge such that the additive capsules 11 and particles 12 are attracted to the sheet material 10. For example, the sheet material 10 may be given one of a negative charge and positive charge and the additive capsules 11 and particles 12 may be given the other one of a negative charge and positive charge. In other embodiments, the sheet material 10 or the additive capsules 11 and particles 12 have a neutral or substantially neutral charge whilst the other of the sheet material 10 and the additive capsules 11 and particles 12 are positively or negatively charged.
The additive capsules 11 and particles 12 and/or the sheet material 10 may be given an electric charge using a charge generator. In one embodiment, a negative charge is applied to the additive capsules 11 and/or particles 12 and a positive charge is applied to the sheet material 10. In an alternative embodiment, a positive charge is applied to the additive capsules 11 and/or particles 12 and a negative charge is applied to the sheet material 10.
In one embodiment, the charge generator comprises a charging member that is rubbed against the sheet material 10 such that a charge is imparted to the sheet material 10.
For example, the sheet material 10 may be supplied as a continuous web that is moved along a conveyance path. The continuous web rubs against the charge member as it moves along the conveyance path and becomes charged. The charging member may be ranked differently on the triboelectric series to the sheet material 10 such that one of the charging member or sheet material 10 gives up electrons to the other one of the charging member or sheet material 10. The charging member may comprise, for example, polyurethane, polyethylene, polypropylene, Teflon™, polyester, glass or nylon. In another embodiment, charge generator comprises an electrically charged drum and the sheet material 10 is passed over the drum to impart a charge to the sheet material 10. In other embodiments, the additive capsules 11 and particles 12 may be passed over the drum, rubbed against the charging member or another charged component such as a hopper or tray. In some embodiments, the charge generator comprises a Van de Graaff generator.
Giving the additive capsules 11 and particles 12 the same charge (for example, a negative charge) will cause the additive capsules 11 and particles 12 to repel each other, which may encourage a more even distribution of the additive capsules 11 and particles 12 on the sheet material 10.
In some embodiments, the static charge may be dissipate over time such that the additive capsules 11 and particles 12 and/or the sheet material 10 return to substantially the same charge. However, the charge will tend to dissipate after the sheet material 10 has been formed into the plug 10A and thus the additive capsules 11 and particles 12 will be retained within the folds of the plug 10A. The static charge thus helps to retain the additive capsules 11 and particles 12 on the sheet material 10 during conveyance of the sheet material 10 to the plug forming machine and during arrangement of the sheet material 10 into the plug 10A.
The additive capsules 11 and particles 12 are interspersed throughout the plug 10A. The additive capsules 11 are configured to selectively entrain additive in the gas flow, as is described in more detail below. The particles 12 help to promote breaking of the additive capsules 11 when an external force is applied to the plug 10A by the user. However, it should be recognised that in alternative embodiments the particles 12 are omitted.
A cross-sectional side view of one of the plurality of additive capsules 11 is shown in
The shell 13 of each additive capsule 11 may be solid at room temperature. The shell 13 may comprise, consist of, or essentially consist of, alginate. However, it should be recognised that in alternative embodiments the shell 13 is formed from a different material. For example, the shell 13 may alternatively comprise, consist of, or essentially consist of, gelatin, carageenans or pectins. The shell 13 may comprise, consist of, or essentially consist of, one or more of alginate, gelatin, carrageenans or pectins.
The inner core 14 of each additive capsule 11 comprises, consist of, or essentially consists of, an additive, for example, a flavourant configured to impart a flavour to gas flowing through the body 10 of the first segment 7 when the additive is exposed to the gas. However, it should be recognised that in other embodiments, the additive may alternatively or additionally comprise a different type of additive such as a humectant.
In the present embodiment, the inner core 14 is a liquid. However, in other embodiments (not shown) the inner core 14 may comprise a solid, for example, a powder.
The shell 13 of each additive capsule 11 may be impermeable, or substantially impermeable, to the additive of the core 14. Therefore, the shell 13 initially prevents the additive of the core 14 from escaping from the additive capsule 11 and being entrained in gas flowing through the body 10. When the user desires to entrain the additive in the gas, for example, to flavour the gas in embodiments wherein the additive is a flavourant, the shells 13 of the additives capsules 11 are ruptured such that the additive can be entrained in the gas.
In some embodiments (not shown), the additive capsule 11 further comprises a carrier material. The carrier material may comprise, for example, gelatin.
In the present embodiment, the particles 12 are cellulose acetate (CA) particles 12.
The cellulose acetate particles 12 comprise cellulose acetate that has been hardened by a plasticiser, for example, triacetin. The plasticiser helps to prevent the cellulose acetate particles 12 from breaking down when the user applies a force to the component 3 to break the additive capsules 11. Furthermore, the increased hardness of the additive capsules 11 due to the plasticiser helps to promote breakage of the additive capsules 11.
It should be recognised that the cellulose acetate may alternatively or additionally be hardened by a different plasticiser, for example, Diacetin, tri-ethyl citrate or PEG.
The cellulose acetate particles 12 may comprise the plasticiser in the range of 15 to 40% by weight of the cellulose acetate particle 12, and preferably in the range of 20 to 35% by weight of the cellulose acetate particle 12. The cellulose acetate particles 12 may comprise the plasticiser of at least 15% by weight of the cellulose acetate particle 12 and, preferably, of at least 20%, by weight of the cellulose acetate particle 12. The cellulose acetate particles 12 may comprise the plasticiser of less than 40% by weight of the cellulose acetate particle 12 and, preferably, less than 35%, by weight of the cellulose acetate particle 12.
In some embodiments, the cellulose acetate particles 12 may be manufactured from a material having a Rockwell hardness of at least 25 on the R-scale measured according to Procedure A of ASTM D785. Preferably, the particles 12 may be manufactured from a material having a Rockwell harness of greater than 30, greater than 40, greater than 50, greater than 60, greater than 70, greater than 80, greater than 90, or greater than 100 on the R-Scale. It has been found that a greater Rockwell hardness of the particles 12 prevents the particles 12 from breaking down when the user applies a force to the component 3 to break the additive capsules 11 and also helps to promote breakage of the additive capsules 11.
In some embodiments, the particles 12 have an average surface area of less than 50 square metres per gram and, preferably, less than 30, 20, 10, 5 or 3 square metres per gram. The surface area may be measured according to ASTM D1993-18 (Standard Test Method for Precipitated Silica-Surface Area by Multipoint BET Nitrogen Adsorption, ASTM International, West Conshohocken, PA, 2018). Particle density may refer to the density of the material of the particles including pores in the material, but excluding voids between particles (which would be the ‘bulk density’).
It has been found that the lower the surface area of the particles 12, the more robust the particles 12 are, which may be due to the particles 12 being less porous. The particles 12 being more robust helps to promote breakage of the additive capsules 11 upon the application of the external force to the exterior of the component 3. The particles 12 being more robust also helps to prevent breakage of the capsules during transit. In addition, it has been found that a lower surface area means that the particles 12 adsorb less of the additive of the additive capsules 11 upon rupture, meaning that more of the additive can be delivered to the user.
The particles 12 optionally may comprise a material having a particle density of at least 1 g/cc. This helps to make the particles 12 more robust to encourage breakage of the additive capsules 11 during use and to prevent breakage of the particles 12 during transit. In some embodiments, the particles 12 comprise a material having a particle density of at least 1.1 g/cc or at least 1.2 g/cc, wherein increasing the particle density of the particles 12 helps to increase the robustness of the particles 12.
In one embodiment, the particles 12 comprise a material having a particle density of less than 5 g/cc and, preferably, less than 2 g/cc, or less than 1.5 g/cc. A lower particle density of the particles 12 results in a lighter component for a delivery system, which is therefore easier to transport.
In some embodiments, the particle density of the particles 12 is between 1 and 2 g/cc, or between 1.1 and 2 g/cc or between 1.1 and 1.5 g/cc.
In some embodiments, the particles 12 are generally cylindrical in shape. The particles 12 may be extruded from a rod of material and cut into individual generally cylindrical particles 12. In one such embodiment, the particles 12 have a diameter in the range of 1 to 2 mm and a length in the range of 1 to 2 mm. Preferably, the particles 12 have a diameter and/or length in the range of 1.2 to 2.2 mm. Preferably, the particles 12 have a diameter and/or length in the range of 1.4 to 2 mm and, preferably, of about 1.5 mm.
In some embodiments, the particles 12 have a particle size in the range of 1.2 to 1.8 mm.
In some embodiments, the particles 12 have a ball-pan hardness of greater than 95%, and, preferably, greater than 96%, 97%, 98%, or 99%. In some embodiments, the ball-pan hardness of the particles 12 is greater than 99.5%, 99.6%, 99.7%, 99.8% or 99.9%. The ball-pan hardness of the particles 12 can be measured using the ball-pan hardness test described in ASTM D3802-16 (Standard Test Method for Ball-Pan Hardness of Activated Carbon, ASTM International, West Conshohocken, P A, 2016). This test is described for testing the hardness of activated carbon. However, it is also suitable for measuring the hardness of other particulate materials. It has been found that increasing the ball-pan hardness of the particles 12 makes the particles more robust and therefore more effective at promoting breakage of the additive capsules 11 during use and also that the particles 12 are less likely to break during transit.
The cellulose acetate particles 12 may comprise one or more surface formations configured to promote breakage of the additive capsules 11 when the user applies a force to the component 3. For example, the surface formations may help to cut or pierce the shells 13 of the additive capsules 11 or grind the additive capsules 11, or may present a hard edge or surface against which the additive capsules 11 can be crushed. In the present embodiment, the cellulose acetate particles 12 each comprise one or more edges 15A and/or one or more corners 15B. The edges 15A and corners 15B may be formed by, for example, cutting or grinding portions of cellulose acetate to shape the cellulose acetate particles 12. The edges 15A may be angular edges. In an alternative embodiment (not shown), the cellulose acetate particles 12 do not comprise any edges 15A and/or corners 15B and, for example, may be spherical. In the present embodiment, the cellulose acetate particles 12 comprise cellulose acetate chips 12. In some embodiments, the particles 12 are generally cylindrical.
The component 3 allows for the user to control the amount of additive that is introduced into the gas flow passing through the component 3. Initially, the shell 13 of each additive particle 11 is intact and therefore no additive from the core 14 is introduced into the gas flow. When the user desires to introduce additive, he or she applies an external force to the component 3 to rupture the shells 13 of the additive capsules 11. In one example, the user holds the component 3 firmly and rolls the component 3 between his or her fingers. This causes the cellulose acetate particles 12 that surround the cavity 10A to promote the rupture of the shells 13 of the additive particles 11 such that the additive of the core 14 is released through the shells 13 and enters the gas flow.
Advantageously, the more that the component 3 is rolled between the user's fingers, the greater the number of additive capsules 11 that are ruptured and thus the more additive that is released into the gas flow. Therefore, the user is able to control the amount of additive that is added to the gas flow by controlling the amount of time that the component 3 is rolled between the fingers. Cellulose acetate is a readily available material that is already used in components manufactured by the tobacco industry, for example, as the filtration material of cigarette filters. Thus, the abrasive material of the component 3 comprising cellulose acetate particles 12 simplifies manufacture of the component 3. However, it should be recognised that other materials may be used to manufacture the particles 12.
The additive from the ruptured additive capsules 11 may seep into the sheet material 10 10 and/or may be spread over the sheet material 10. This helps to increase the amount of additive that is in contact with the gas flow through the component 3 and thus the amount of additive that is entrained in the gas flow. Thus, fewer additive capsules 11 may be required to achieve a given additive level in the gas flow in comparison to arrangements that did not include the sheet material 10.
It has been found that providing the additive capsules 11 and particles 12 on the sheet material 10 allows for faster manufacture of the component 3. If the additive capsules 11 and particles 12 were instead provided in a space formed between axially spaced plugs of filter material, and not surrounded by filter material, then it may be necessary to first position the plugs on a wrapper and then fill the space between the plugs with the additive capsules/particles. In contrast, the present invention allows for the additive capsules/particles to be provided in the first segment/plug during manufacture of the first/segment plug, which has been found to allow for quicker manufacture.
In some embodiments, the cellulose acetate particles 12 may be manufactured from a material having a melt flow in the range of 0.2 to 6 g/10 min according to ASTM D1238.
In some embodiments, the cellulose acetate particles 12 may be manufactured from a material having a melt flow in the range of 0.25 to 5.5 g/10 min or in the range of 0.5 to 4 g/10 min. In some embodiments, the melt flow is less than 5.5 g/10 min.
In one exemplary embodiment, the cellulose acetate particles 12 comprise 28% triacetin and 72% cellulose acetate and the material has a melt flow of 414 mg/3 mins (1.38 g/10 min). In another exemplary embodiment, the cellulose acetate particles 12 comprise 25% triacetin and 75% cellulose acetate and the material has a melt flow of 266 mg/3 min (0.89 g/10 min).
In some embodiments the body 10A is circumscribed by a wrapper 22 (shown in
The tipping paper 4 comprises one or more indicators 19 that provide a visual indication to the user of where the external force should be applied to the component 3 to release the additive. For example, the indicators 19 may indicate where the component 3 should be held and rolled between the fingers to release the additive. The indicators 19 may, for example, be printed onto the tipping paper 4 or may comprise a label that is adhered to the tipping paper 4. The indicators 19 may overlie the body 10 of filter material.
The component 3 further comprises a plug wrap 16 that circumscribes the first segment 7 and at least a portion of the second and/or third segments 8, 9. In the present embodiment, the plug wrap 16 circumscribes the entire length of both of the second and third segments 8, 9.
Optionally, the plug wrap 16 and tipping paper 4 that overlies the first segment 7 are deformable such that, in use, the user applies an external force to deform the tipping paper 4 and first segment 7 radially inwardly to break the additive capsules 11. In the example described above, the user grips the wall and rolls the component 3 between the fingers such that the cellulose acetate particles 12 rupture the shells 13 of the additive capsules 11 to release the additive therefrom. In embodiments wherein the plug wrap 16 is omitted, the tipping paper 4 is deformed. In embodiments wherein the tipping paper 4 is omitted, the plug wrap 16 is deformed. In some embodiments, the wall comprises a further sheet of material (not shown) in addition to the tipping paper 4 and/or plug wrap 16. In other embodiments (not shown), neither a tipping paper 4 or plug wrap 16 circumscribe the first segment 7 (or the whole of the first segment 7) and so the user applies a force directly to the plug 10A.
The plug wrap 16 comprises a paper layer 17 and a sealing layer 18. The sealing layer 18 is impermeable, or substantially impermeable, to the additive of the additive capsules 11. Therefore, when the additive capsules 11 are broken to entrain additive in the gas flow, the sealing layer 18 prevents the additive from seeping through the plug wrap 16.
This is advantageous because the combustible aerosol provision system 1 is usually held between the user's fingers in the region of the component 3 and thus the sealing layer 18 helps to prevent the additive from coming into contact with the user's fingers.
In the present embodiment, the sealing layer 18 is in the form of a coating 18 provided on the paper layer 17. For example, the coating 18 may comprise Ethyl cellulose. In an alternative embodiment (not shown), the sealing layer 18 comprises a layer of material, for example, plastic sheet or foil, that is bonded to the paper layer 17 by an adhesive. In some embodiments, the sealing layer 18 is an oil repellent.
In one embodiment, the sealing layer 18 is provided on the inner surface of the paper layer 17 such that the paper layer 17 is disposed between the sealing layer 18 and the tipping paper 4. Alternatively, the sealing layer 18 may be provided on the outer surface of the paper layer 17 such that the sealing layer 18 is disposed between the paper layer 17 and the tipping paper 4.
In one embodiment, the sealing layer 18 is provided over the entire inner and/or outer surface of the paper layer 17. However, in an alternative embodiment, the sealing layer 18 is only provided over a portion of the inner and/or outer surface of the paper layer 17, for instance, only over the portion of the paper layer 17 that circumscribes the plug 10A.
When the component 3 is rolled between the user's fingers the wall deforms radially inwardly such that the additive capsules 11 are ground together/pressed against each other. It has been found that the particles 12 interspersed within the plug 10A of filter material promote release of the additive from the additive capsules 11.
The plug wrap 16 is configured to provide structural support to the component 3 to help maintain the structural integrity of the component 3 during rolling of the component 3 to release the additive. In some embodiments, the plug wrap 16 has a basis weight of at least 60 gsm, and preferably of at least 80 gsm. This basis weight provides the plug wrap 16 with increased rigidity in order to help maintain the structural integrity of the component 3 during rolling of the component 3. In some embodiments the basis weight of the plug wrap 16 is in the range of 60 to 110 gsm and, preferably, is in the range of 80 to 110 gsm. The basis weight of the plug wrap 16 may be in the range of 60 to 100 gsm, or in the range of 80 to 100 gsm.
In one embodiment, the rigidity of the plug wrap 16 is achieved by manufacturing the paper layer 17 from paper having a thickness of at least 35 micrometres, and preferably, at least 50, 60, 70, 80, 90 or 100 micrometres. In some embodiments, the paper layer 17 has a thickness in the range of 35 to 137 micrometres. The rigidity of the plug wrap 16 helps the component 3 to return to its original shape once the user has finished rolling the component 3 to release the additive.
In some embodiments, the additive capsules 11 have a diameter of at least 0.6 mm. In some embodiments, the additive capsules 11 have a diameter of at least 0.8 mm. In some embodiments, the additive capsules 11 have a diameter of less than 1.4 mm. In some embodiments, the additive capsules 11 have a diameter of less than 1.2 mm. In some embodiments, the additive capsules have a diameter of about 1 mm.
It has been found that smaller diameter additive capsules 11 result in a smaller amount of additive being introduced into the gas flow when each additive capsule 11 is ruptured, thereby allowing the user to more accurately control the amount of additive that is added to the gas flow based on the length of time that the component 3 is rolled between the fingers.
In some embodiments, the additive capsules 11 have a diameter in the range of 0.6 mm to 1.4 mm, or, in the range of 0.8 to 1.2 mm.
In some embodiments, the additive capsules 11 have a particle size of at least 0.6 mm. The term ‘particle size’ refers to particle size when measured by sieving. Preferably, the additive capsules 11 have a particle size of at least 0.8 mm. In some embodiments, the additive capsules 11 have a particle size of less than 1.4 mm, or, a particle size of less than 1.2 mm. In one embodiment, the additive capsules 11 have a particle size in the range of between 0.6 mm to 1.4 mm, or, in the range of 0.8 to 1.2 mm. Preferably, the additive capsules 11 have a particle size of about 1 mm.
In some embodiments, the particles 12 have a particle size in the range of 1.2 to 1.8 mm.
In some embodiments, the cellulose acetate particles 12 have a particle size of at least 0.6 mm and, preferably, at least 0.8 mm, at least 1.2 mm or at least 1.4 mm. The term ‘particle size’ refers to particle size when measured by sieving. In some embodiments, the cellulose acetate particles 12 have a particle size of less than 2.4 mm or, less than 2.2 mm, less than 2 mm, less than 1.8 mm, less than 1.6 mm or less than 1.2 mm.
In some embodiments, the cellulose acetate particles 12 have a particle size in the range of 0.6 to 2.2 mm and, preferably, in the range of 0.8 to 2 mm.
In some embodiments, the cellulose acetate particles 12 have a particle size in the range of 0.6 to 1.4 mm or in the range of 0.8 to 1.2 mm.
In some embodiments, the particles 12 have a particle size in the range of 1.2 to 2.2 mm and, preferably, in the range of 1.4 to 2 mm.
In some embodiments, the cellulose acetate particles 12 have a particle size in the range of 0.6 to 2.2 mm and, preferably, a particle size in the range of 0.8 to 2 mm. In one such embodiment, the additive capsules 11 have a diameter/particle size in the range of 0.6 mm to 1.4 mm, or, in the range of 0.8 to 1.2 mm. This combination of size of additive capsules 11 and size of cellulose acetate particles 12 has been found to advantageously increase the effectiveness of the cellulose acetate particles 12 at rupturing the additive capsules 11.
The component 3 may comprise a void 20 at the mouth end of the component 3. In the embodiment shown in
The annular portion 21 is provided downstream of the second segment 8 and is attached thereto by the tipping paper 4 and/or plug wrap 16. In another embodiment, the second segment 8 comprises the annular portion such that the void 20 is provided in material of the second segment 8. In yet another embodiment (not shown), the component 3 is a cavity filter 3. The tipping paper 4, plug wrap 16, or a further wrap (not shown) may extend past the mouth end of the first plug 9 of filter material to form a space that comprises the void 20, the annular portion 21 being omitted.
In one embodiment, the second and third segments 8, 9 each comprise a portion of filtration material, for example, cellulose acetate or activated carbon, and each portion is wrapped in its own plug wrap (not shown). The second and third segments 8, 9 are then wrapped in the plug wrap 16 which also circumscribes the cavity 8. However, in alternative embodiments (not shown), the individual plug wraps of the second and/or third segments 8, 9 are omitted. In some embodiments (not shown) the plug wrap 16 does not circumscribe the second and/or third segments 8, 9 and, optionally, only circumscribes the first segment 7.
In some alternative embodiments (not shown), the second and/or third segments 8, 9 are omitted. For instance, the third segment 9 may be omitted such that the first segment 7 is located between the second segment 8 and the tobacco rod 2 and is adjacent to the second segment 8 and the tobacco rod 2.
In the above described embodiment each additive capsule 11 comprises an outer shell 13 and an inner core 14. However, in alternative embodiments (not shown), the outer shell 13 is omitted. In one embodiment (not shown), each additive capsule 11 comprises a body of material that comprises the additive, wherein no shell surrounds the body. In one embodiment (not shown), each additive capsule 11 comprises a solid material that breaks down, for example, forming a powder, when an external force is applied to the component 3 to allow the additive to be entrained in gas flowing through the plug 10A.
The cellulose acetate particles 12 help to break the additive capsules 11 to form the powder.
In some embodiments, the component 3 comprises in the range of 5 to 70 additive capsules 11 and, preferably in the range of 10 to 60 additive capsules 11. It has been found that this number of additive capsules 11 helps to maximise the proportion of additive capsules 11 that are ruptured when the user applies the force to the component 3 and thus maximises the amount of additive that is released into the smoke flow.
Preferably, the number of additive capsules 11 is in the range of 20 to 50 capsules, which has been found to further increase the proportion of additive capsules 11 that are ruptured. In one embodiment, the component 3 comprises in the range of 25 to 40 additive capsules and may comprise about 30 additive capsules 11. However, it should be recognised that in other embodiments the component 3 may comprise greater or fewer additive capsules 11. In some embodiments, the component 3 comprises at least 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55 or 60 additive capsules 11.
In some embodiments, the component 3 comprises in the range of 3.5 mg to 45 mg of additive capsules 11 and, preferably in the range of 7 to 42 mg of additive capsules 11. It has been found that this mass of additive capsules 11 helps to maximise the proportion of additive capsules 11 that are ruptured when the user applies the force to the component 3 and thus maximises the amount of additive that is released into the smoke flow. Preferably, the number of additive capsules 11 is in the range of 14 to 35 mg of additive capsules 11, which has been found to further increase the proportion of additive capsules 11 that are ruptured. In one embodiment, the component 3 comprises in the range of 17.5 mg to 28 mg of additive capsules and may comprise about 21 mg of additive capsules 11. However, it should be recognised that in other embodiments the component 3 may comprise a different mass of additive capsules 11. In some embodiments, the component 3 comprises at least 3.5, 7, 10.5, 14, 17.5, 21, 24.5, 28, 31.5, 35, 38.5 or 42 mg of additive capsules 11.
In some embodiments, the component 3 comprises less than 75 and, preferably, less than 60 mg of cellulose acetate particles 12. This has been found to help prevent premature bursting of the additive capsules 11 during manufacture and storage of the component 3.
In some embodiments, the component 3 comprises at least 20 mg of particles 12 and, preferably, at least 30 mg, at least 40 mg or at least 50 mg of particles 12.
In some embodiments, the component 3 comprises in the range of 30 to 60 mg of particles 12. In one preferred embodiment, the component 3 comprises in the range of 50 to 60 mg of particles 12.
Referring now to
The component 103 of the embodiment of
The component 103 comprises a body 110 of filter material, for example, cellulose acetate. However, a difference from the component 3 of
The first segment 107 comprises a body 110A formed from a sheet material 110. The sheet material 110 is rolled-up to form the body 110A. In the present embodiment, the body 110A is a plug 110A.
The component 103 further comprises additive capsules 11 and particles 12. As with the previous embodiment, the additive capsules 11 are breakable to release additive upon the application of a force to the component 103. The particles 12 promote breakage of the additive capsules 11. This is because the particles 12, for example, cellulose acetate chips, provide hard surfaces against which the additive capsules 12 can be crushed and/or the particles 12 cut or pierce the additive capsules 11.
In the present embodiment, the sheet material 110 includes a plurality of formations 112 which make it easier to roll-up the sheet material 110 to form the plug 110A. The formations 112 comprise a plurality of ridges 112A and valleys 112B of the sheet material 110. That is, the sheet material 110 is crimped or otherwise folded to have a zig-zag cross-section. A fold or crease line 112C is formed at the mid-point of each ridge 112A and valley 112B. Each crease line 112C may extend across the entire width of the sheet material 110, between opposite longitudinal edges 11A, 11B of the sheet material 110.
A skilled person will recognise that in alternative embodiments the formations 112 may be formed by another method, for example, corrugating or embossing the sheet material 110. In some embodiments, the sheet material 110 has a wavy cross-section, each ridge and valley being generally U-shaped rather than V-shaped in the example shown in
The formations 112 may be generally linear. The formations 112 may extend across the width of the sheet material 110. That is, the formations 112 may extend entirely across the sheet material 110 between the opposite longitudinal edges 111A, 111B of the sheet material 110.
The formations 112 also provide spaces 113 for the additive capsules 11 and particles 12 such that the additive capsules 11 and particles 12 are retained in the spaces 113 when the sheet material 110 is arranged into the plug 110A. As can be seen from
As with the first embodiment, the additive capsules 11 and particles 12 may optionally be attached to the sheet material 110, for example, by adhesive or static electricity.
In one embodiment, the sheet material 110 comprises card. However, a skilled person will recognise that other materials are suitable including paper or plastic. In some embodiments, the sheet material 110 comprises a fibre woven, or otherwise formed, into a sheet.
To release additive, the user rolls the component 103 between his or her fingers, which causes rupture of the additive capsules 11. The particles 12 promote rupturing of the additive capsules 11.
The additive capsules 11 and particles 12 may both be applied to each side of the sheet material 110. Alternatively, the additive capsules 11 and particles 12 may both be applied to only one side of the sheet material 110, the other side being free from additive capsules 11 and particles 12. In yet another embodiment, the additive capsules 11 are applied to a first side of the sheet material 110 and the particles are applied to the second other side of the sheet material 110. In such an embodiment, the first side is free of particles 12 and the second side is free of additive capsules 11.
In one embodiment (not shown), the additive capsules 11 and particles 12 are applied to only one side of the sheet material 110 and only over a portion of said side such that when the sheet material 110 is rolled into a body 110A the additive capsules 11 and particles 12 are only located on the outside of the sheet material 110. Alternatively, the capsules and particles may only be located on internal surfaces of the body 110A.
Referring now to
The sheet material 210 comprises a plurality of formations 212. In the present embodiment, the formations 212 are dimples 212A in the sheet material 210 and protrusions 212B. The dimples 212A provide spaces 213 for the additive capsules and particles such that the additive capsules and particles are retained in the spaces 213 when the sheet material 210 is arranged into a plug.
In the present embodiment the dimples 212A on one side of the sheet material form protrusions 212B on the opposite side of the sheet material 210. Further spaces 213 are formed between the protrusions 212B such that the additive capsules and particles are retained in the spaces 213 when the sheet material 210 is arranged into a plug.
The dimples 212A may be formed into a surface of the sheet material 212. The protrusions 212B may project outwardly form a surface of the sheet material 212.
It should be recognised that is some embodiments one of the dimples 212A or 20 protrusions 212B may be omitted. For instance, the dimples 212A may be formed into the thickness of the sheet material 210 so that corresponding protrusions 212B are not formed on the reverse side of the sheet material 210.
In some embodiments, the formations 212 are formed by embossing.
In some embodiments, the formations 212 are discrete and spaced from each other. The formations 212 may be provided in a regular array.
Referring now to
The sheet material 310 comprises Miura folds that are configured to retain the additive capsules and particles.
The first fold lines 312A are depicted by dashed lines in
The first and second fold lines 312A, 312B form a series of parallelograms 315 on the surface of the sheet material 310.
The sheet material 310 comprises first and second opposing side edges 311A, 311B and third and fourth opposing side edges 311C, 311D that are perpendicular to the first and second side edges 311A, 311B.
The sheet material 310 comprises a plurality of first groupings 313 of the first and second fold lines 312A, 312B. The first groupings 313 extend between the first and second side edges 311A, 31B. Each first grouping 313 comprises first and second fold lines 312A, 312B arranged sequentially in an alternating pattern. Each first grouping 313 extends in a straight line between the first and second side edges 311A, 311B.
The sheet material 310 comprises a plurality of second groupings 314 of the first and second fold lines 312A, 312B. The second groupings 314 extend between the third and fourth side edges 311C, 31D. The second groupings 314 alternate between comprising entirely first fold lines 312A and comprising entirely second fold lines 312B. Each second grouping 314 extends in a zig-zag between the third and fourth side edges 311C, 311D.
The first and second groupings 313, 314 intersect to form the parallelograms 315 of the sheet material 310.
Once the first and second fold lines 312A, 312B are formed in the sheet material 310, the sheet material can be folded such that the parallelograms 315 of the sheet material 310 lie substantially planar to one another, thus forming a body. The additive capsules (not shown) and particles (not shown) can be held in the folds, between adjacent parallelograms 315 of the sheet material 310.
With the sheet material 310 folded to retain the additive capsules and particles, the sheet material 310 can then be further folded or bent into a different shape, for example, a cylindrical plug. Alternatively, the body formed by the folded sheet material 310 can be embedded within a larger plug of material, for example, a plug of filtration material such as such as cellulose acetate.
The plurality of additive capsules (not shown) and particles (not shown) may be applied to the sheet material 310 after the first and second fold lines 312A, 312B are formed in the sheet material 310. Optionally, the additive capsules and/or particles can be attached to the sheet material 310, for example, with adhesive or static electricity as previously described. However, in other embodiments the additive capsules and/or particles are retained solely by being held in the folds of the sheet material 310.
Referring now to
In some embodiments, the step S1 of supplying the particles to the sheet material comprises attaching the particles to the sheet material. In some embodiments, the step S2 of supplying the additive capsules to the sheet material comprises attaching the additive capsules to the sheet material.
In some embodiments, the particles are supplied to the sheet material using a feeding device such as a screw feeder and the additive capsules are supplied to the sheet material by the feeding device or by a second feeding device such as a screw feeder.
The sheet material may be passed along a conveyance path and the particles and additive capsules may be supplied to the sheet material as it moves along the conveyance path. For example, the particles and additive capsules may be dropped on to the sheet material as it passes the screw feeders or other feeding device(s).
The additive capsules and/or particles may be attached to the sheet material using adhesive or static electricity, as explained above. In other embodiments, the additive capsules and/or particles are not attached to the sheet material prior to arranging the sheet material into a body of material.
In some embodiments, the sheet material is embossed or crimped, for example being fed through crimping rollers. The particles and additive capsules may be supplied to the sheet material after the sheet material has been crimped, to prevent the crimping process from damaging the particles and additive capsules.
The step S3 of arranging the sheet material into a body, for example, a plug, may comprise folding the sheet material into a body and this may comprise gathering the sheet material together into a body (for example, in a similar manner to how ‘crepe filters’ are manufactured). In one such embodiment, the sheet material is fed to a tongue that reduces in cross-sectional area such that the sheet material is gathered together as is passes through the tongue. In some embodiments, the method comprises folding the sheet material such that the additive capsules and/or particles are retained within folds in the sheet material. The folds may comprise Miura folds or may e of a different arrangement.
In some embodiments, the method comprises forming formations in the sheet material such that the additive capsules and/or particles are retained in or against the formations and, preferably, the formations comprise depressions or protuberances. The formations may be formed by, for example, embossing or crimping the sheet material.
Referring now to
The apparatus 500 comprises a supply 501 of sheet material 10, a formation forming device 502, an adhesive applicator 503 and a body forming device 506. The apparatus 500 further comprises a feeding system comprising first and second feeding devices 504, 505.
In the present example, the supply 501 is a reel 501 of sheet material 10 that is fed along a conveyance path (shown by arrow ‘P’ in
In the present example, the formation forming device 502 is a crimping device 502 and may comprise first and second crimping rollers 502A, 502B. However, in other embodiments the formation forming device 502 may be omitted or may have a different configuration, for example, alternatively or additionally comprising an embossing device such as embossing rollers. The formation forming device, or a separate formation forming device, may be configured to form depressions or protrusions of the sheet material 10.
The crimping device 502 is configured to crimp the sheet material 10 as it passes between the rollers 502A, 502B.
The adhesive applicator 503 is configured to apply adhesive to the sheet material 10, for example, by spraying the adhesive or applying the adhesive with a roller or brush.
Alternatively, the adhesive may be gravity fed to the sheet material 10. The adhesive is applied to the sheet material 10 as the sheet material 10 moves along the conveyance path P and passes the adhesive applicator 503.
The adhesive applicator 503 may supply the adhesive to the sheet material 10 through a nozzle 503A using compressed gas.
The first feeding device 504 comprises a hopper 504A and a screw feeder 504B. The hopper 504A contains particles 12. The screw feeder 504B is configured to supply the particles 12 from the hopper 504A to the sheet material 10 as the sheet material 10 moves along the conveyance path P and passes the first feeding device 504.
The second feeding device 505 comprises a hopper 505A and a screw feeder 505B. The hopper 505A contains additive capsules 11. The screw feeder 505B is configured to supply the additive capsules 11 from the hopper 505A to the sheet material 10 as the sheet material 10 moves along the conveyance path P and passes the second feeding device 505.
In the present example, the first feeding device 504 is upstream of the second feeding device 504 such that the sheet material 10 reaches the first feeding device 504 before reaching the second feeding device 505 as the sheet material 10 travels along the conveyance path P. However, the order of the first and second feeding devices 504, 505 could be reversed. In another embodiment (not shown), the feeding system may comprise a feeding device that feeds both the particle and additive capsules to the sheet material 10. For instance, the particles and additive capsules could be mixed together in a single hopper and supplied to the sheet material.
In an alternative embodiment (not shown), one or both of the screw feeders 504B, 505B are replaced by an alternative feeding device, for example, a belt that feeds the particles or additive capsules to the sheet material. In some embodiments (not shown), the particles and/or additive capsules are stored in containers and supplied to the sheet material through a pipe using compressed gas.
The body forming device 506 comprises a tongue 506A. The sheet material 10 is fed into the tongue 506A. The tongue 506A reduces in cross-sectional area such that the sheet material 10 is gathered together to form a body 10 as is passes through the tongue 506A. In one embodiment, the body forming device is a CU-20 paper filter maker manufactured by Decouflé™. However, a skilled person will recognise that other devices can be used to form the sheet material into a body, for example, an apparatus for manufacturing a ‘crepe filter’ or ‘paper filter’.
The body forming device 506 may arrange the sheet material 10 into a body of material that is circumscribed by a wrapper. The body and wrapper may form a continuous rod that may then be cut into segments for inclusion in delivery systems.
In some embodiments, when the sheet material 10 is arranged into the body of material, the additive capsules and particles are retained within folds in the sheet material.
In another embodiment (not shown), the adhesive applicator 503 is omitted.
In another embodiment (not shown), the adhesive applicator is replaced by a static electricity generator configured such that the additive capsules and particles are attached to the sheet material 10 using static electricity. That is, the sheet material 10 and/or the additive capsules and particles are given a static charge by the static generator such that the additive capsules and particles are attracted to the sheet material 10. For example, the sheet material 10 may be given one of a negative charge and positive charge and the additive capsules and particles may be given the other one of a negative charge and positive charge. In other embodiments, the sheet material 10 or the additive capsules and particles have a neutral or substantially neutral charge whilst the other of the sheet material 10 and the additive capsules and particles are positively or negatively charged.
In one embodiment (not shown), the static electricity generator comprises a charging member (not shown) that is rubbed against the sheet material 10 such that a charge is imparted to the sheet material 10. For example, the sheet material 10 may be supplied as a continuous web that is moved along a conveyance path. The continuous web rubs against the charge member as it moves along the conveyance path and becomes charged. The charging member may be ranked differently on the triboelectric series to the sheet material 10 such that one of the charging member or sheet material 10 gives up electrons to the other one of the charging member or sheet material 10. The charging member may comprise, for example, polyurethane, polyethylene, polypropylene, Teflon™, polyester, glass or nylon. In another embodiment, charge generator comprises an electrically charged plate or drum and the sheet material 10 is passed over the plate or drum to impart a charge to the sheet material 10. In other embodiments, the additive capsules and particles may be passed over the drum, rubbed against the charging member or another charged component such as a hopper or tray.
In some embodiments, the static electricity generator comprises a Van de Graaff generator.
Giving the additive capsules and particles the same charge (for example, a negative charge) will cause the additive capsules and particles to repel each other, which may encourage a more even distribution of the additive capsules and particles on the sheet material 10.
In some embodiments, the static charge may be dissipate over time such that the additive capsules and particles and/or the sheet material return to the same or, substantially the same, charge. However, the charge will tend to dissipate after the sheet material 10 has been formed into the body of material and thus the additive capsules and particles will be retained within the folds of the plug. The static charge thus helps to retain the additive capsules and particles on the sheet material 10 during conveyance of the sheet material 10 to the plug forming machine and during arrangement of the sheet material 10 into the plug.
In one embodiment (not shown), the apparatus 500 comprises a creasing device (not shown) configured to form Miura folds in the sheet material 10. In one embodiment, the Miura folds are formed into the sheet material 10 by a creasing device comprising formed rollers (not shown) that form a crease pattern allowing the sheet material 10 to deform in selected areas. The feeding system is configured to supply the particles and additive capsules to the sheet material 10, wherein the sheet material 10 is formed into a body of material with the particles and additive capsules held in the folds. In one embodiment, the Miura folds are formed into the sheet material 10 by a pair of rollers having protrusions and corresponding recesses that form the Miura folds as the sheet material is passed between the rollers. The protrusions of one roller may align with the recess of the other roller.
In an alternative embodiment (not shown), the sheet material 10 has the Miura folds pre-applied and is then rolled into the reel 501 for delivery along the conveyance path P. For instance, the Miura folds could be pre-applied by a creasing device or by hand.
In the above described embodiments, the component 3, 103 comprises particles 12 configured to promote breakage of the additive capsules. However, in alternative embodiments (not shown) the additive capsules are omitted. In some embodiments, to release additive, the user rolls the component 3, 103 between his or her fingers, which causes rupture of the additive capsules 11. The particles 12 promote rupturing of the additive capsules 11. This is because the particles 12, for example, cellulose acetate chips, provide hard surfaces against which the additive capsules can be crushed, or against which the sheet material 10, 110, 210, 310 is compressed during rolling of the component 3, 103 such that the additive capsules 11 are more easily ruptured as they are pressed against the compressed, and thus firmer, sheet material 10, 110, 210, 310.
In some embodiments (not shown), the sheet material 10, 110, 210, 310 comprises formations to promote rupture of the additive capsules 11. The sheet material 10, 110, 210, 310 may have protrusions that promote rupture of the additive capsules 11, and may comprise points, edges or flats that promote rupture of the additive capsules 11. The formations may be formed, for example, by embossing the sheet material 10, 110, 210, 310.
In the above described embodiments, the additive capsules 11 and particles 12 are attached to the sheet material 10, 110, 210, 310 by, for example, static electricity or adhesive, prior to arranging the sheet material into a body. However, in alternative embodiments (not shown), the additive capsules and/or particles are not attached and instead are retained within folds in the sheet material once it is arranged into a body of material.
In the present embodiment, the delivery system 101 is a combustible aerosol provision system 101. However, in alternative embodiments (not shown), the delivery system 101 is of an arrangement other than a combustible aerosol provision system 101. For example, the delivery system 101 may be a non-combustible aerosol provision system or an aerosol-free delivery system.
In some embodiments, the cellulose acetate particles 12 are formed from extruding plasticised cellulose acetate and then cutting or grinding the extruded plasticised cellulose acetate to form the cellulose acetate particles 12. However, it should be recognised that in alternative embodiments the cellulose acetate particles 12 are formed by a different process, for example, by moulding. In one embodiment, a portion of plasticised cellulose acetate is manufactured that is larger than the cellulose acetate particles 12 that are to be produced and the cellulose acetate particles 12 are formed by cutting chips from the portion of plasticised cellulose acetate.
In the above described embodiments the particles 12 comprise cellulose acetate. However, it should be recognised that in alternative embodiments the particles may comprise a different material, for example, polyethylene (PE), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polypropylene (PP), Polycarbonate (PC) or acrylic (PMMA). In other embodiments, the particles may comprise activated carbon or sea salt.
In the above embodiments, the component 3, 103 is in the form of a filter 3, 103. However, it should be recognised that in alternative embodiments (not shown) the component 3, 103 is of a different configuration. For example, the component 3, 103 could comprise part of an aerosol generation device such as an e-cigarette, which may not comprise a filter.
As used herein, the term “delivery system” is intended to encompass systems that deliver at least one substance to a user, and includes:
-
- combustible aerosol provision systems, such as cigarettes, cigarillos, cigars, and tobacco for pipes or for roll-your-own or for make-your-own cigarettes (whether based on tobacco, tobacco derivatives, expanded tobacco, reconstituted tobacco, tobacco substitutes or other smokable material);
- non-combustible aerosol provision systems that release compounds from an aerosol-generating material without combusting the aerosol-generating material, such as electronic cigarettes, tobacco heating products, and hybrid systems to generate aerosol using a combination of aerosol-generating materials; and
- aerosol-free delivery systems that deliver the at least one substance to a user orally, nasally, transdermally or in another way without forming an aerosol, including but not limited to, lozenges, gums, patches, articles comprising inhalable powders, and oral products such as oral tobacco which includes snus or moist snuff, wherein the at least one substance may or may not comprise nicotine.
According to the present disclosure, a “combustible” aerosol provision system is one where a constituent aerosol-generating material of the aerosol provision system (or component thereof) is combusted or burned during use in order to facilitate delivery of at least one substance to a user.
In some embodiments, the delivery system is a combustible aerosol provision system, such as a system selected from the group consisting of a cigarette, a cigarillo and a cigar.
In some embodiments, the disclosure relates to a component for use in a combustible aerosol provision system, such as a filter, a filter rod, a filter segment, a tobacco rod, a spill, an aerosol-modifying agent release component such as a capsule, a thread, or a bead, or a paper such as a plug wrap, a tipping paper or a cigarette paper.
According to the present disclosure, a “non-combustible” aerosol provision system is one where a constituent aerosol-generating material of the aerosol provision system (or component thereof) is not combusted or burned in order to facilitate delivery of at least one substance to a user.
In some embodiments, the delivery system is a non-combustible aerosol provision system, such as a powered non-combustible aerosol provision system.
In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol provision system is an electronic cigarette, also known as a vaping device or electronic nicotine delivery system (END), although it is noted that the presence of nicotine in the aerosol-generating material is not a requirement.
In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol provision system is an aerosol-generating material heating system, also known as a heat-not-burn system. An example of such a system is a tobacco heating system.
In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol provision system is a hybrid system to generate aerosol using a combination of aerosol-generating materials, one or a plurality of which may be heated. Each of the aerosol-generating materials may be, for example, in the form of a solid, liquid or gel and may or may not contain nicotine. In some embodiments, the hybrid system comprises a liquid or gel aerosol-generating material and a solid aerosol-generating material. The solid aerosol-generating material may comprise, for example, tobacco or a non-tobacco product.
Typically, the non-combustible aerosol provision system may comprise a non-combustible aerosol provision device and a consumable for use with the non-combustible aerosol provision device.
In some embodiments, the disclosure relates to consumables comprising aerosol-generating material and configured to be used with non-combustible aerosol provision devices. These consumables are sometimes referred to as articles throughout the disclosure.
In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol provision system, such as a non-combustible aerosol provision device thereof, may comprise a power source and a controller. The power source may, for example, be an electric power source or an exothermic power source. In some embodiments, the exothermic power source comprises a carbon substrate which may be energised so as to distribute power in the form of heat to an aerosol-generating material or to a heat transfer material in proximity to the exothermic power source.
In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol provision system may comprise an area for receiving the consumable, an aerosol generator, an aerosol generation area, a housing, a mouthpiece, a filter and/or an aerosol-modifying agent.
In some embodiments, the consumable for use with the non-combustible aerosol provision device may comprise aerosol-generating material, an aerosol-generating material storage area, an aerosol-generating material transfer component, an aerosol generator, an aerosol generation area, a housing, a wrapper, a filter, a mouthpiece, and/or an aerosol-modifying agent.
In some embodiments, the disclosure relates to a component for use in a non-combustible aerosol provision system, such as a filter, a filter rod, a filter segment, a tobacco rod, a spill, an aerosol-modifying agent release component such as a capsule, a thread, or a bead, or a paper such as a plug wrap, or a paper such as a tipping paper.
In some embodiments, the delivery system is an aerosol-free delivery system that delivers at least one substance to a user orally, nasally, transdermally or in another way without forming an aerosol, including but not limited to, lozenges, gums, patches, articles comprising inhalable powders, and oral products such as oral tobacco which includes snus or moist snuff, wherein the at least one substance may or may not comprise nicotine.
In some embodiments, the substance to be delivered may be an aerosol-generating material or a material that is not intended to be aerosolised. As appropriate, either material may comprise one or more active constituents, one or more flavours, one or more aerosol-former materials, and/or one or more other functional materials.
In some embodiments, the substance to be delivered comprises an active substance.
The active substance as used herein may be a physiologically active material, which is a material intended to achieve or enhance a physiological response. The active substance may for example be selected from nutraceuticals, nootropics, psychoactives. The active substance may be naturally occurring or synthetically obtained. The active substance may comprise for example nicotine, caffeine, taurine, theine, vitamins such as B6 or B12 or C, melatonin, cannabinoids, or constituents, derivatives, or combinations thereof. The active substance may comprise one or more constituents, derivatives or extracts of tobacco, cannabis or another botanical.
In some embodiments, the active substance comprises nicotine. In some embodiments, the active substance comprises caffeine, melatonin or vitamin B12.
As noted herein, the active substance may comprise one or more constituents, derivatives or extracts of cannabis, such as one or more cannabinoids or terpenes.
As noted herein, the active substance may comprise or be derived from one or more botanicals or constituents, derivatives or extracts thereof. As used herein, the term “botanical” includes any material derived from plants including, but not limited to, extracts, leaves, bark, fibres, stems, roots, seeds, flowers, fruits, pollen, husk, shells or the like. Alternatively, the material may comprise an active compound naturally existing in a botanical, obtained synthetically. The material may be in the form of liquid, gas, solid, powder, dust, crushed particles, granules, pellets, shreds, strips, sheets, or the like. Example botanicals are tobacco, eucalyptus, star anise, hemp, cocoa, cannabis, fennel, lemongrass, peppermint, spearmint, rooibos, chamomile, flax, ginger, Ginkgo biloba, hazel, hibiscus, laurel, licorice (liquorice), matcha, mate, orange skin, papaya, rose, sage, tea such as green tea or black tea, thyme, clove, cinnamon, coffee, aniseed (anise), basil, bay leaves, cardamom, coriander, cumin, nutmeg, oregano, paprika, rosemary, saffron, lavender, lemon peel, mint, juniper, elderflower, vanilla, wintergreen, beefsteak plant, curcuma, turmeric, sandalwood, cilantro, bergamot, orange blossom, myrtle, cassis, valerian, pimento, mace, damien, marjoram, olive, lemon balm, lemon basil, chive, carvi, verbena, tarragon, geranium, mulberry, ginseng, theanine, theacrine, maca, ashwagandha, damiana, guarana, chlorophyll, baobab or any combination thereof. The mint may be chosen from the following mint varieties: Mentha Arventis, Mentha c.v., Mentha niliaca, Mentha piperita, Mentha piperita citrata c.v., Mentha piperita c.v, Mentha spicata crispa, Mentha cardifolia, Mentha longifolia, Mentha suaveolens variegata, Mentha pulegium, Mentha spicata c.v. and Mentha suaveolens
In some embodiments, the active substance comprises or is derived from one or more botanicals or constituents, derivatives or extracts thereof and the botanical is tobacco.
In some embodiments, the active substance comprises or derived from one or more botanicals or constituents, derivatives or extracts thereof and the botanical is selected from eucalyptus, star anise, cocoa and hemp.
In some embodiments, the active substance comprises or derived from one or more botanicals or constituents, derivatives or extracts thereof and the botanical is selected from rooibos and fennel.
In some embodiments, the substance to be delivered comprises a flavour.
As used herein, the terms “flavour” and “flavourant” refer to materials which, where local regulations permit, may be used to create a desired taste, aroma or other somatosensorial sensation in a product for adult consumers. They may include naturally occurring flavour materials, botanicals, extracts of botanicals, synthetically obtained materials, or combinations thereof (e.g., tobacco, cannabis, licorice (liquorice), hydrangea, eugenol, Japanese white bark magnolia leaf, chamomile, fenugreek, clove, maple, matcha, menthol, Japanese mint, aniseed (anise), cinnamon, turmeric, Indian spices, Asian spices, herb, wintergreen, cherry, berry, red berry, cranberry, peach, apple, orange, mango, clementine, lemon, lime, tropical fruit, papaya, rhubarb, grape, durian, dragon fruit, cucumber, blueberry, mulberry, citrus fruits, Drambuie, bourbon, scotch, whiskey, gin, tequila, rum, spearmint, peppermint, lavender, aloe vera, cardamom, celery, cascarilla, nutmeg, sandalwood, bergamot, geranium, khat, naswar, betel, shisha, pine, honey essence, rose oil, vanilla, lemon oil, orange oil, orange blossom, cherry blossom, cassia, caraway, cognac, jasmine, ylang-ylang, sage, fennel, wasabi, piment, ginger, coriander, coffee, hemp, a mint oil from any species of the genus Mentha, eucalyptus, star anise, cocoa, lemongrass, rooibos, flax, Ginkgo biloba, hazel, hibiscus, laurel, mate, orange skin, rose, tea such as green tea or black tea, thyme, juniper, elderflower, basil, bay leaves, cumin, oregano, paprika, rosemary, saffron, lemon peel, mint, beefsteak plant, curcuma, cilantro, myrtle, cassis, valerian, pimento, mace, damien, marjoram, olive, lemon balm, lemon basil, chive, carvi, verbena, tarragon, limonene, thymol, camphene), 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, liquid such as an oil, solid such as a powder, or gas.
In some embodiments, the flavour comprises menthol, spearmint and/or peppermint. In some embodiments, the flavour comprises flavour components of cucumber, blueberry, citrus fruits and/or redberry. In some embodiments, the flavour comprises eugenol. In some embodiments, the flavour comprises flavour components extracted from tobacco. In some embodiments, the flavour comprises flavour components extracted from cannabis.
In some embodiments, the flavour may comprise a sensate, which is intended to achieve a somatosensorial sensation which are usually chemically induced and perceived by the stimulation of the fifth cranial nerve (trigeminal nerve), in addition to or in place of aroma or taste nerves, and these may include agents providing heating, cooling, tingling, numbing effect. A suitable heat effect agent may be, but is not limited to, vanillyl ethyl ether and a suitable cooling agent may be, but not limited to eucolyptol, WS-3.
Aerosol-generating material is a material that is capable of generating aerosol, for example when heated, irradiated or energized in any other way. Aerosol-generating material may, for example, be in the form of a solid, liquid or gel which may or may not contain an active substance and/or flavourants. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material may comprise an “amorphous solid”, which may alternatively be referred to as a “monolithic solid” (i.e. non-fibrous). In some embodiments, the amorphous solid may be a dried gel. The amorphous solid is a solid material that may retain some fluid, such as liquid, within it. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material may for example comprise from about 50 wt %, 60 wt % or 70 wt % of amorphous solid, to about 90 wt %, 95 wt % or 100 wt % of amorphous solid.
The aerosol-generating material may comprise one or more active substances and/or flavours, one or more aerosol-former materials, and optionally one or more other functional material.
The aerosol-former material may comprise one or more constituents capable of forming an aerosol. In some embodiments, the aerosol-former material may comprise one or more of glycerine, glycerol, propylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, 1,3-butylene glycol, erythritol, meso-Erythritol, ethyl vanillate, ethyl laurate, a diethyl suberate, triethyl citrate, triacetin, a diacetin mixture, benzyl benzoate, benzyl phenyl acetate, tributyrin, lauryl acetate, lauric acid, myristic acid, and propylene carbonate.
The one or more other functional materials may comprise one or more of pH regulators, colouring agents, preservatives, binders, fillers, stabilizers, and/or antioxidants.
The material may be present on or in a support, to form a substrate. The support may, for example, be or comprise paper, card, paperboard, cardboard, reconstituted material, a plastics material, a ceramic material, a composite material, glass, a metal, or a metal alloy. In some embodiments, the support comprises a susceptor. In some embodiments, the susceptor is embedded within the material. In some alternative embodiments, the susceptor is on one or either side of the material.
A consumable is an article comprising or consisting of aerosol-generating material, part or all of which is intended to be consumed during use by a user. A consumable may comprise one or more other components, such as an aerosol-generating material storage area, an aerosol-generating material transfer component, an aerosol generation area, a housing, a wrapper, a mouthpiece, a filter and/or an aerosol-modifying agent. A consumable may also comprise an aerosol generator, such as a heater, that emits heat to cause the aerosol-generating material to generate aerosol in use. The heater may, for example, comprise combustible material, a material heatable by electrical conduction, or a susceptor.
A susceptor is a material that is heatable by penetration with a varying magnetic field, such as an alternating magnetic field. The susceptor may be an electrically-conductive material, so that penetration thereof with a varying magnetic field causes induction heating of the heating material. The heating material may be magnetic material, so that penetration thereof with a varying magnetic field causes magnetic hysteresis heating of the heating material. The susceptor may be both electrically-conductive and magnetic, so that the susceptor is heatable by both heating mechanisms. The device that is configured to generate the varying magnetic field is referred to as a magnetic field generator, herein.
An aerosol-modifying agent is a substance, typically located downstream of the aerosol generation area, that is configured to modify the aerosol generated, for example by changing the taste, flavour, acidity or another characteristic of the aerosol. The aerosol-modifying agent may be provided in an aerosol-modifying agent release component, that is operable to selectively release the aerosol-modifying agent
The aerosol-modifying agent may, for example, be an additive or a sorbent. The aerosol-modifying agent may, for example, comprise one or more of a flavourant, a colourant, water, and a carbon adsorbent. The aerosol-modifying agent may, for example, be a solid, a liquid, or a gel. The aerosol-modifying agent may be in powder, thread or granule form. The aerosol-modifying agent may be free from filtration material.
An aerosol generator is an apparatus configured to cause aerosol to be generated from the aerosol-generating material. In some embodiments, the aerosol generator is a heater configured to subject the aerosol-generating material to heat energy, so as to release one or more volatiles from the aerosol-generating material to form an aerosol.
In some embodiments, the aerosol generator is configured to cause an aerosol to be generated from the aerosol-generating material without heating. For example, the aerosol generator may be configured to subject the aerosol-generating material to one or more of vibration, increased pressure, or electrostatic energy.
The delivery system described herein can be implemented as a combustible aerosol provision system, a non-combustible aerosol provision system or an aerosol-free delivery system.
The various embodiments described herein are presented only to assist in understanding and teaching the claimed features. These embodiments are provided as a representative sample of embodiments only, and are not exhaustive and/or exclusive.
It is to be understood that advantages, embodiments, examples, functions, features, structures, and/or other aspects described herein are not to be considered limitations on the scope of the invention 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 of the claimed invention. Various embodiments of the invention may suitably comprise, consist of, or consist essentially of, appropriate combinations of the disclosed elements, components, features, parts, steps, means, etc, other than those specifically described herein. In addition, this disclosure may include other inventions not presently claimed, but which may be claimed in future.
Claims
1. A component for a delivery system, the component comprising a sheet material that is arranged into a body of material and at least one additive capsule incorporated with the body, wherein the additive capsule is breakable upon the application of a force to the body by a user.
2. A component according to claim 1, comprising a plurality of additive capsules incorporated with the body, wherein the additive capsules are breakable upon the application of a force to the body by a user.
3. A component according to claim 1, further comprising a plurality of particles incorporated with the body, wherein the particles promote breaking of the additive capsule(s) upon the application of said external force to the body by a user.
4. A component according to claim 1, wherein the particles comprise a material having a particle density of at least 1 g/cc.
5. A component according to claim 1, wherein the particles comprise a polymeric material and, preferably, plastic.
6. A component according to claim 1, wherein the particles comprise cellulose acetate.
7. A component according to claim 1, wherein the sheet material comprises paper.
8. A component according to claim 1, wherein the sheet material is folded to form the body.
9. A component according to claim 1, wherein the sheet material has a thickness of at least 30 micrometres.
10. A component according to claim 1, wherein the sheet material has a thickness of less than 130 micrometres.
11. A component according to claim 1, wherein the sheet material has a basis weight of at least 15 gsm.
12. A component according to claim 1, wherein the sheet material has a basis weight of less than 100 gsm.
13. A component according to claim 1, wherein the additive capsule(s) and/or particles are attached to the sheet material.
14. A component according to claim 1, wherein the additive capsule(s) and/or particles are retained within folds of the sheet material and, preferably, the folds comprise Miura folds.
15. A component according to claim 1, wherein the additive capsule(s) and/or particles are retained in the body by formations of the sheet material and, preferably, the formations comprise depressions or protuberances of the sheet material.
16. A component according to claim 1, wherein the particles are generally cylindrical.
17. A component according to claim 1, wherein the particles have one or more curved edges.
18. A component according to claim 1, wherein the component is a component for a combustible aerosol provision system, a non-combustible aerosol provision system or an aerosol-free provision system.
19. A delivery system comprising a component according to claim 1.
20. A method of manufacturing a component for a delivery system, the method comprising:
- supplying at least one additive capsule to a sheet material; and,
- arranging the sheet material into a body such that the additive capsule is incorporated with the body and, in use, the additive capsule is breakable upon the application of a force to the body by a user.
21. A method according to claim 20, comprising supplying a plurality of additive capsules to the sheet material.
22. A method according to claim 20, further comprising combining a plurality of particles with the sheet material such that, when the sheet material is arranged into the body the particles are incorporated with the body and the particles promote breakage of the additive capsule(s) upon the application of a force to the body by a user.
23. A method according to claim 20, comprising attaching the additive capsule(s) and/or particles to the sheet material and, preferably, attaching the additive capsule(s) and/or particles using adhesive and/or static electricity.
24. A method according to claim 20, comprising folding the sheet material such that the additive capsule(s) and/or particles are retained within folds in the sheet material and, preferably, wherein at least some of the folds comprise Miura folds.
25. A method according to claim 20, comprising forming formations in the sheet material such that the additive capsule(s) and/or particles are retained in the body by the formations and, preferably, the formations comprise depressions or protuberances.
26. An apparatus for manufacturing a component for a delivery system, the apparatus comprising:
- a feeding system configured to supply at least one additive capsule to a sheet material; and,
- a body forming device configured to arrange the sheet material into a body, wherein the additive capsule is breakable upon the application of a force to the body by a user.
27. An apparatus according to claim 26, wherein the feeding system is configured to supply a plurality of additive capsules to the sheet material.
28. An apparatus according to claim 26, wherein the feeding system is configured to supply particles to the sheet material such that, when the sheet material is arranged into the body, the particles promote breakage of the additive capsule(s) upon the application of a force to the body by a user.
29. An apparatus according to claim 26, wherein the feeding system is configured to attach the additive capsule(s) and/or particles to the sheet material and, preferably, comprises an adhesive applicator and/or static electricity generator.
30. An apparatus according to claim 26, wherein the body forming device is configured to gather the sheet material such that the additive capsule(s) and/or particles are retained within folds in the sheet material.
31. An apparatus according to claim 26, further comprising a folding device configured to fold the sheet material such that the additive capsule(s) and/or particles are retained within folds in the sheet material and, preferably, wherein the folding device is configured to form Miura folds in the sheet material.
32. An apparatus according to claim 26, including a formation forming device configured to form formations in the sheet material such that that the additive capsule(s) and/or particles may be received in or against the formations and the formations comprise depressions or protuberances.
33. (canceled)
Type: Application
Filed: Jun 9, 2021
Publication Date: Sep 21, 2023
Inventors: Andrew BURTON (London), Karl KALJURA (London), Andrew THORNTON (London), Ian KING (London)
Application Number: 17/928,664
