COMPRESSIBLE ROD FOR AN AEROSOL-GENERATING DEVICE

Abstract

A compressible rod for an aerosol-generating device includes a first layer and a wrapper circumscribing the first layer. The first layer includes a first material. The first material may include tobacco. The compressible rod has a circular cross-sectional shape and a hollow center. The compressible rod is configured to be compressed, such that the compressible rod has a non-circular cross-sectional shape after compression.

Description

BACKGROUND

Field

The present disclosure relates to heat-not-burn (HNB) aerosol-generating devices configured to receive rods and/or methods of generating an aerosol without involving a substantial pyrolysis of an aerosol-forming substrate.

Description of Related Art

Some electronic devices are configured to heat a plant material to a temperature that is sufficient to release constituents of the plant material while keeping the temperature below a combustion point of the plant material so as to avoid any substantial pyrolysis of the plant material. Such devices may be referred to as aerosol-generating devices (e.g., heat-not-burn aerosol-generating devices), and the plant material heated may be tobacco and/or Cannabis. In some instances, the plant material may be introduced directly into a heating chamber of an aerosol-generating device. In other instances, the plant material may be pre-packaged in individual containers to facilitate insertion and removal from an aerosol-generating device.

SUMMARY

At least some example embodiments relate to a compressible rod for an aerosol-generating device.

In at least one example embodiment, the compressible rod includes a first layer and a wrapper circumscribing the first layer. The first layer includes a first material. The first material includes, for example, tobacco. The compressible rod has a circular cross-sectional shape and a hollow portion. The compressible rod is configured to be compressed, such that the compressible rod has a non-circular cross-sectional shape after compression

In at least one example embodiment, the first material includes, for example, a tobacco gel, a tobacco powder, reconstituted tobacco, tobacco fibers, or any combination thereof.

In at least one example embodiment, the compressible rod further includes a second layer. The second layer includes a second material.

In at least one example embodiment, the second material includes, for example, a tobacco gel, a tobacco powder, reconstituted tobacco, tobacco fibers, or any combination thereof.

In at least one example embodiment, the second layer is disposed between the wrapper and the first layer.

In at least one example embodiment, the first layer is disposed between the wrapper and the second layer.

In at least one example embodiment, the compressible rod further includes a third layer. The third layer may include a flavor material. The flavor material includes, for example, a flavor gel, a flavor powder, encapsulated flavor beads, or any combination thereof.

In at least one example embodiment, the first layer, the second layer, and the third layer each have a different permeability.

In at least one example embodiment, the first layer, the second layer, and the third layer each have a different density.

In at least one example embodiment, the third layer is disposed between the first layer and the second layer.

In at least one example embodiment, the second layer is between the first layer and the third layer.

In at least one example embodiment, the first material and the second material are the same.

In at least one example embodiment, the first material and the second material are different.

In at least one example embodiment, the compressible rod further includes a layer of a conductive metal. The layer of conductive metal may be disposed on or form an exterior surface of the compressible rod or an interior surface of the compressible rod.

In at least one example embodiment, the conductive metal may include aluminum.

In at least one example embodiment, the compressible rod further includes a first layer of a conductive metal and a second layer of a conductive metal. The first layer of conductive metal may be disposed on or form an exterior surface of the compressible rod, and the second layer of conductive metal may be disposed on or form an interior surface of the compressible rod.

In at least one example embodiment, the wrapper includes, for example, a paper, a polymer, or both a paper and a polymer.

In at least one example embodiment, the compressible rod further includes a filter at an end of the compressible rod, where the filter does not include a hollow portion.

At least some example embodiments relate to a compressible rod for an aerosol-generating device.

In at least one example embodiment, the compressible rod includes a first layer including an inner surface circumscribing a hollow portion and an outer wrapper circumscribing the first layer. The first layer includes a first material including tobacco.

In at least one example embodiment, the inner surface includes a thermally conductive material.

In at least one example embodiment, the thermally conductive material is deformable.

In at least one example embodiment, the compressible rod further includes a second layer. The second layer includes a second material. The second material includes, for example, a tobacco gel, a tobacco powder, reconstituted tobacco, tobacco fibers, or any combination thereof.

In at least one example embodiment, the second layer is disposed between the outer wrapper and the first layer.

In at least one example embodiment, the first layer is disposed between the outer wrapper and the second layer.

In at least one example embodiment, the compressible rod further includes a third layer including a flavor material. The flavor material includes, for example, a flavor gel, a flavor powder, encapsulated flavor beads, or any combination thereof.

In at least one example embodiment, the first layer, the second layer, and the third layer each have a different permeability or a different density.

In at least one example embodiment, the third layer is disposed between the first layer and the second layer.

In at least one example embodiment, the second layer is disposed between the first layer and the third layer.

In at least one example embodiment, the compressible rod may further include a layer of a conductive metal. The layer of conductive metal may be disposed on an exterior surface of the compressible rod, the inner surface, or both the exterior surface and the inner surface.

In at least one example embodiment, the conductive metal includes, for example, aluminum.

At least some example embodiments relate to an aerosol-generating device.

In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol-generating device includes a compressible rod, an outer housing defining a cavity, the cavity configured to receive the compressible rod before, during, and/or after compression, and a heater in the outer housing. The compressible rod includes a first layer and a wrapper circumscribing the first layer. The first layer may include a first material. The first material may include tobacco. The compressible rod may have a circular cross-sectional shape and a hollow portion. The compressible rod may be configured to be compressed, such that the compressible rod has a non-circular cross-sectional shape after compression. In at least one example embodiment, the compressible rod has an oval or elliptical cross-sectional shape after compression.

In at least one example embodiment, the heater includes a blade heater, and the heater is received within the hollow portion of the compressible rod.

At least some example embodiments relate to a method of generating an aerosol.

In at least one example embodiment, the method of generating an aerosol includes inserting a compressible rod into a cavity of an aerosol-generating device, while compressing the compressible rod about a heater. The method of generating an aerosol may further include electrically contacting a plurality of electrodes with the heater; and supplying an electric current to the heater via the plurality of electrodes.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The various features and advantages of the non-limiting embodiments herein may become more apparent upon review of the detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. The accompanying drawings are merely provided for illustrative purposes and should not be interpreted to limit the scope of the claims. The accompanying drawings are not to be considered as drawn to scale unless explicitly noted. For purposes of clarity, various dimensions of the drawings may have been exaggerated.

FIG. 1A is an illustration of a compressible rod in accordance with at least one example embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 1B is a cross-section illustration of the compressible rod illustrated in FIG. 1A along line 1B-1B prior to compression.

FIG. 2A is an illustration of a compressible rod in accordance with at least one example embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2B is a cross-section illustration of the compressible rod illustrated in FIG. 2A along line 2B-2B prior to compression.

FIG. 3A is an illustration of a compressible rod in accordance with at least one example embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 3B is a cross-section illustration of the compressible rod illustrated in FIG. 3A along line 3B-3B prior to compression.

FIG. 4A is an illustration of a compressible rod in accordance with at least one example embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 4B is a cross-section illustration of the compressible rod illustrated in FIG. 4A along line 4B-4B prior to compression.

FIG. 5A is an illustration of a compressible rod in accordance with at least one example embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 5B is a cross-section illustration of the compressible rod illustrated in FIG. 5A along line 5B-5B prior to compression.

FIG. 5C is an illustration of crimped paper in accordance with at least one example embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 6A is an illustration of a compressible rod in accordance with at least one example embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 6B is a cross-section illustration of the compressible rod illustrated in FIG. 6A along line 6B-6B prior to compression.

FIG. 7A is an illustration of a compressible rod in accordance with at least one example embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 7B is a cross-section illustration of the compressible rod illustrated in FIG. 7A along line 7B-7B prior to compression.

FIG. 8A is an illustration of a compressible rod in accordance with at least one example embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 8B is a cross-section illustration of the compressible rod illustrated in FIG. 8A along line 8B-8B prior to compression.

FIG. 9A is an illustration of a compressible rod in accordance with at least one example embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 9B is a cross-sectional illustration of the compressible rod illustrated in FIG. 9A along line 9B-9B prior to compression.

FIG. 10A is an illustration of an example compressible rod in accordance with at least one example embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 10B is a cross-sectional illustration of the compressible rod illustrated in FIG. 10A along line 10B-10B prior to compression.

FIG. 11A is a cross-section illustration of a compressible rod in a relaxed state, where a hollow portion of the compressible rod receives a heating unit of a heat-not-burn (HNB) aerosol-generating device, in accordance with at least one example embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 11B is a cross-section illustration of a compressible rod in a compressed state, where a hollow portion of the compressible rod receives a heating unit of a heat-not-burn (HNB) aerosol-generating device, in accordance with at least one example embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional, schematic view of an aerosol-generating device according to at least one example embodiment of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS

Some detailed example embodiments are disclosed herein. However, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are merely representative for purposes of describing example embodiments. Example embodiments may, however, be embodied in many alternate forms and should not be construed as limited to only the example embodiments set forth herein.

Accordingly, while example embodiments are capable of various modifications and alternative forms, example embodiments thereof are shown by way of example in the drawings and will herein be described in detail. It should be understood, however, that there is no intent to limit example embodiments to the particular forms disclosed, but to the contrary, example embodiments are to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of example embodiments. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout the description of the figures.

It should be understood that when an element or layer is referred to as being “on,” “connected to,” “coupled to,” or “covering” another element or layer, it may be directly on, connected to, coupled to, or covering the other element or layer or intervening elements or layers may be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being “directly on,” “directly connected to,” or “directly coupled to” another element or layer, there are no intervening elements or layers present. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout the specification. As used herein, the term “and/or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

It should be understood that, although the terms first, second, third, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, regions, layers and/or sections, these elements, regions, layers, and/or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element, region, layer, or section from another region, layer, or section. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer, or section discussed below could be termed a second element, region, layer, or section without departing from the teachings of example embodiments.

Spatially relative terms (e.g., “beneath,” “below,” “lower,” “above,” “upper,” and the like) may be used herein for ease of description to describe one element or feature's relationship to another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. It should be understood that the spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is turned over, elements described as “below” or “beneath” other elements or features would then be oriented “above” the other elements or features. Thus, the term “below” may encompass both an orientation of above and below. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly.

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing various example embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of example embodiments. As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “includes,” “including,” “comprises,” and/or “comprising,” specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, and/or elements, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or groups thereof.

When the terms “about” or “substantially” are used in this specification in connection with a numerical value, it is intended that the associated numerical value includes a manufacturing or operational tolerance (e.g., ±10%) around the stated numerical value. Moreover, when the words “generally” and “substantially” are used in connection with geometric shapes, it is intended that precision of the geometric shape is not required but that latitude for the shape is within the scope of the disclosure. Further, regardless of whether numerical values or shapes are modified as “about” or “substantially,” it will be understood that these values and shapes should be construed as including a manufacturing or operational tolerance (e.g., ±10%) around the stated numerical values or shapes.

Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which example embodiments belong. It will be further understood that terms, including those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein.

As used herein, “coupled” includes both removably coupled and permanently coupled. When the elastic layer and the support layer are removably coupled to one another, the elastic layer and the support layer can be separated upon the application of sufficient force.

As used herein, “compressible” includes deformation causing a reduction in one or more dimensions, including, for example, a potential reduction in volume.

FIG. 1A is an illustration of a compressible rod in accordance with at least one example embodiment.

In at least one example embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 1A, a rod 100 configured to be received by a heat-not-burn (HNB) aerosol-generating device, includes a filler 110, a filter 120 linearly aligned with the filler 110, and a wrapper 140 that surrounds the filler 110 and the filter 120.

The rod 100 may have an average diameter ranging from about 5 millimeters (mm) to about 10 mm. For example, the average diameter of the rod 100 may be greater than or equal to about 5 mm (e.g., greater than or equal to about 5.5 mm, greater than or equal to about 6 mm, greater than or equal to about 6.5 mm, greater than or equal to about 7 mm, greater than or equal to about 7.5 mm, greater than or equal to about 8 mm, greater than or equal to about 8.5 mm, greater than or equal to about 9 mm, or greater than or equal to about 9.5 mm). The average diameter of the rod 100 may be less than or equal to about 10 mm (e.g., less than or equal to about 9.5 mm, less than or equal to about 9 mm, less than or equal to about 8.5 mm, less than or equal to about 8 mm, less than or equal to about 7.5 mm, less than or equal to about 7 mm, less than or equal to about 6.5 mm, less than or equal to about 6 mm, or less than or equal to about 5.5 mm).

The rod 100 may have a length ranging from about 45 mm to about 105 mm. For example, the length of the rod 100 may be greater than or equal to about 45 mm (e.g., greater than or equal to about 50 mm, greater than or equal to about 55 mm, greater than or equal to about 60 mm, greater than or equal to about 65 mm, greater than or equal to about 70 mm, greater than or equal to about 75 mm, greater than or equal to about 80 mm, greater than or equal to about 85 mm, greater than or equal to about 90 mm, greater than or equal to about 95 mm, or greater than or equal to about 100 mm). The length of the rod 100 may be less than or equal to about 105 mm (e.g., less than or equal to about 100 mm, less than or equal to about 95 mm, less than or equal to about 90 mm, less than or equal to about 85 mm, less than or equal to about 80 mm, less than or equal to about 75 mm, less than or equal to about 70 mm, less than or equal to about 65 mm, less than or equal to about 60 mm, less than or equal to about 55 mm, or less than or equal to about 50 mm).

In at least one example embodiment, the filler 110 includes a fibrous material configured to release a compound (e.g., nicotine, cannabinoid) when heated. For example, an aerosol including the compound may be produced when the material is heated. The heating may be below a combustion temperature for the fibrous material such that an aerosol is produced without substantial pyrolysis of the fibrous material and/or the substantial generation of combustion byproducts, if any. The compound may be a naturally occurring constituent of the fibrous material. As illustrated in FIG. 1A, the fibrous material may be in the form of loose material 112.

In at least one example embodiment, a density of the filler 110 may vary depending on a mass per unit volume of the fibrous material. The density may depend on open spaces of a matrix defined by the fibrous material. For example, in at least one example embodiment, the filler 110 may have an amount of air voids ranging from about 20% to about 70%. For example, the filler 110 may have an amount of air voids greater than or equal to about 20% (e.g., greater than or equal to about 25%, greater than or equal to about 30%, greater than or equal to about 35%, greater than or equal to about 40%, greater than or equal to about 45%, greater than or equal to about 50%, greater than or equal to about 55%, greater than or equal to about 60%, or greater than or equal to about 65%). The filler 110 may have an amount of air voids less than or equal to about 70% (e.g., less than or equal to about 65%, less than or equal to about 60%, less than or equal to about 55%, less than or equal to about 50%, less than or equal to about 45%, less than or equal to about 40%, less than or equal to about 35%, less than or equal to about 30%, or less than or equal to about 25%). The openness of the filler 100 may control the mass transfer of aerolosizable compounds in the aerosol stream and may also contribute to a pressure drop that can be perceived as resistance-to-draw (RTD).

FIG. 1B is a cross-section of the compressible rod illustrated in FIG. 1A along line 1B-1B.

As illustrated in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the filler 110 has a hollow portion 114 and the loose material 112 is dispersed around the hollow portion 114. The hollow portion 114 includes a thermally conductive material, like aluminum or stainless steel, and permits the rod 100 to be compressible. For example, a pressure or force may be applied to one or more opposing sides of the compressible rod 100 (e.g., the rod may be squeezed), such that the compressible rod 100 has, for example, a substantially circular cross-sectional shape prior to compression and a non-circular cross-sectional shape after compression. For example, after compression, the rod 100 may have a generally oval or elliptical cross-sectional shape. The pressure or force is sufficient to move the compressible rod 100 from the substantially circular cross-sectional shape to the non-circular cross-sectional shape. For example, in at least one example embodiment, the compressible rod 100 may be compressed by at least about 5% (e.g., at least about 6%, at least about 7%, at least about 8%, at least about 9%, at least about 10%, at least about 11%, at least about 12%, at least about 13%, at least about 14%, at least about 15%, at least about 16%, at least about 17%, at least about 18%, at least about 19%, or at least about 20%). In at least one example embodiment, the compressible rod 100 may be compress by less than about 30% (e.g., less than about 29%, less than about 28%, less than about 27%, less than about 26%, less than about 25%, less than about 24%, less than about 23%, less than about 22%, less than about 21%, less than about 20%, less than about 19%, less than about 18%, less than about 17%, less than about 16%, less than about 15%, less than about 14%, less than about 13%, less than about 12%, less than about 11%, less than about 10%, less than about 9%, less than about 8%, less than about 7%, or less than about 6%). The compressibility of the compressible rod 100 helps to establish good thermal contact between an inner surface defining the hollow portion 114 and a heater received within the hollow portion 114, as discussed further below.

Although not illustrated, the skilled artisan will recognize that the compressible rod 100 and hollow portions 114 described herein may have a variable of cross-sectional shapes. In each instance, the hollow portion 114 may be generally cylindrical and may extend an entirety of or a portion of a length of the filler 110. The hollow portion 114 may have an average diameter ranging from about 1 mm to about 3 mm. For example, the average diameter of the hollow portion 114 may be greater than or equal to about 1 mm (e.g., greater than or equal to about 1.25 mm, greater than or equal to about 1.5 mm, greater than or equal to about 1.75 mm, greater than or equal to about 2 mm, greater than or equal to about 2.25 mm, greater than or equal to about 2.5 mm, or greater than or equal to about 2.75 mm). The average diameter of the hollow portion 114 may be less than or equal to about 3 mm (e.g., less than or equal to about 2.75 mm, less than or equal to about 2.5 mm, less than or equal to about 2.25 mm, less than or equal to about 2 mm, less than or equal to about 1.75 mm, less than or equal to about 1.5 mm, or less than or equal to about 1.25 mm).

In at least one example embodiment, the fibrous material may be a botanical or plant material, such as a tobacco material and/or a Cannabis material, as aerosol formers. The term “tobacco” includes any tobacco plant material from one or more species of tobacco plants. For example, the tobacco material may include material from any member of the genus Nicotiana (such as, Nicotiana rustica and/or Nicotiana tabacum). In at least one example embodiment, the tobacco material may include a blend of two or more different tobacco varieties. For example, the tobacco material may include flue-cured tobacco, Burley tobacco, Dark tobacco, Maryland tobacco, Oriental tobacco, rare tobacco, specialty tobacco, blends thereof, and the like. The tobacco material may be provided in any suitable form, including, but not limited to, tobacco lamina, processed tobacco materials (such as, volume expanded or puffed tobacco), processed tobacco stems (such as, cut-rolled or cut-puffed stems), reconstituted tobacco materials, blends thereof, and the like. In at least one example embodiment, the tobacco material is in the form of a substantially dry tobacco mass.

In at least one example embodiment, the filler 110 can include any portion of the Cannabis material including fibers and/or any extract therefrom. For example, the filler 110 may include a mixture of Cannabis sativa and Cannabis indica. In at least one example embodiment, the filler 110 may include a mixture of about 60 weight percent (wt. %) to about 80 wt. % (e.g., about 70 wt. %) of Cannabis sativa and about 20 wt. % to about 40 wt. % (e.g., about 30 wt. %) of Cannabis indica. When the fibrous material includes the Cannabis material the compound may be a cannabinoid. Examples of cannabinoids include tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA), tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabidiolic acid (CBDA), cannabidiol (CBD), cannabinol (CBN), cannabicyclol (CBL), cannabichromene (CBC), and cannabigerol (CBG). Tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA) is a precursor of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), while cannabidiolic acid (CBDA) is precursor of cannabidiol (CBD). Tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA) and cannabidiolic acid (CBDA) may be converted to tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), respectively, via heating such as further discussed below.

In at least one example embodiment, the filler 110 may include the aerosol formers in an amount ranging from about 5 wt. % to about 50 wt. % based on the weight of the rod 100. For example, the filler 110 may include greater than or equal to about 5 wt. % (e.g., greater than or equal to about 10 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 15 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 20 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 25 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 30 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 35 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 40 wt. %, or greater than or equal to about 45 wt. %) of the aerosol forms based on the weight of the rod 100. The filler 110 may include less than or equal to about 50 wt. % (e.g., less than or equal to about 45 wt. %, less than or equal to about 40 wt. %, less than or equal to about 35 wt. %, less than or equal to about 30 wt. %, less than or equal to about 25 wt. %, less than or equal to about 20 wt. %, less than or equal to about 15 wt. %, or less than or equal to about 10 wt. %) of the aerosol forms based on the weight of the rod 100.

In at least one example embodiment, the filler 110 may include the tobacco material and/or the Cannabis material and another fibrous material. In at least one example embodiment, the another fibrous material may include, for example, other plant materials (such as herbs), leafy natural material (such as tea leaves), or combination of plant materials and leafy natural materials. In at least one example embodiment, the another fibrous material may include, for example, natural cellulosic materials (such as cotton), biopolymers (such as alginates, starches and the like), or a combination of natural cellulosic materials and biopolymers, that have been processed to form fibrous like structures. In at least one example embodiment, natural materials may be preferred. In at least one example embodiment, pre-processed materials having improved purity may be preferred as the transfer of undesirable constituents to the aerosol stream.

In at least one example embodiment, the filler 110 may include an amount of the another fibrous material ranging from about 1 wt. % to about 99 wt. %. For example, the filler 100 may include greater than or equal to about 1 wt. % (e.g., greater than or equal to about 10 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 20 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 30 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 40 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 50 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 60 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 70 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 80 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 90 wt. %, or greater than or equal to about 95 wt. %) of the another fibrous material based on the filler 110. The filler 110 may include less than or equal to about 99 wt. % (e.g., less than or equal to about 95 wt. %, less than or equal to about 90 wt. %, less than or equal to about 85 wt. %, less than or equal to about 80 wt. %, less than or equal to about 75 wt. %, less than or equal to about 70 wt. %, less than or equal to about 65 wt. %, less than or equal to about 60 wt. %, less than or equal to about 55 wt. %, less than or equal to about 50 wt. %, less than or equal to about 45 wt. %, less than or equal to about 40 wt. %, less than or equal to about 35 wt. %, less than or equal to about 30 wt. %, less than or equal to about 25 wt. %, less than or equal to about 20 wt. %, or less than or equal to about 10 wt. %) of the another fibrous material based on the filler 110.

In at least one example embodiment, the fibrous material and/or another fibrous material may be mixed and/or combined with one or more additives. In some example embodiments, the additive includes an aerosol or vapor former, such as propylene glycol, glycerin, or a combination of propylene glycol and glycerin. In some example embodiments, the additive includes, for example, a flavorant, a sensate or chemesthesis agent, a humectant, a pH modifier, a sweetener, or any combination thereof (e.g., the flavorant and/or the sensate or chemesthesis agent and/or the humectant and/or the pH modifier and/or the sweetener).

In at least one example embodiment, the flavorant may include, for example, natural and artificial flavorants. The flavorants may include peppermint, spearmint, wintergreen, menthol, cinnamon, chocolate, vanillin, licorice, clove, anise, sandalwood, geranium, rose oil, vanilla, lemon oil, cassia, fennel, ginger, ethylacetate, isoamylacetate, propylisobutyrate, isobutylbutyrate, ethylbutyrate, ethylvalerate, benzylformate, limonene, cymene, pinene, linalool, geraniol, citronellol, citral, orange oil, coriander oil, borneol, fruit extract, coffee, tea, cacao, mint, pomegranate, acai, raspberry, blueberry, strawberry, boysenberry, cranberry, bourbon, scotch, whiskey, cognac, hydrangea, lavender, apple, peach, pear, cherry, plum, orange, lime, grape, grapefruit, butter, rum, coconut, almond, pecan, walnut, hazelnut, French vanilla, macadamia, sugar cane, maple, cassis, caramel, banana, malt, espresso, Kahlua, white chocolate, spice flavors such as cinnamon, clove, cilantro, basil, oregano, garlic, mustard, nutmeg, rosemary, thyme, tarragon, dill, sage, anise, and fennel, methyl salicylate, linalool, jasmine, coffee, olive oil, sesame oil, sunflower oil, bergamot oil, geranium oil, lemon oil, ginger oil, balsamic vinegar, rice wine vinegar, or any combination thereof.

In at least one example embodiment, the filler 110 may include the flavorant in an amount ranging from about 0.01 wt. % to about 25 wt. % based on the weight of the rod 100. For example, the filler 100 may include greater than or equal to about 0.01 wt. % (e.g., greater than or equal to about 1 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 2 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 4 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 6 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 8 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 10 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 12 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 14 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 16 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 18 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 20 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 22 wt. %, or greater than or equal to about 24 wt. %) of the flavorant based on the weight of the rod 100. The filler 110 may include less than or equal to about 25 wt. % (e.g., less than or equal to about 24 wt. %, less than or equal to about 22 wt. %, less than or equal to about 20 wt. %, less than or equal to about 18 wt. %, less than or equal to about 16 wt. %, less than or equal to about 14 wt. %, less than or equal to about 12 wt. %, less than or equal to about 10 wt. %, less than or equal to about 8 wt. %, less than or equal to about 6 wt. %, less than or equal to about 4 wt. %, less than or equal to about 2 wt. %, or less than or equal to about 1 wt. %) of the flavorant based on the weight of the rod 100.

In at least one example embodiment, the sensate or chemesthesis agent may include any soothing, cooling, and/or warming agent. For example, in at least one example embodiment, the sensate or chemesthesis agent may include capsaicin, pipeline, alpha-hydroxy-sanshool, (8)-gingerole, or any combination thereof (e.g., capsaicin and/or pipeline and/or alpha-hydroxy-sanshool and/or (8)-gingerole), which may be included to provide a warm, tingling or burning sensation. In at least one example embodiment, the sensate or chemesthesis agent may include menthol, menthyl lactate, WS-3 (N-ethyl-p-menthane-3-carboxamide), WS-23 (2-isopropyl-N,2,3-trimethylbutyramide), Evercool 180™ (available from Givaudan SA), or any combination thereof (e.g., menthol and/or menthyl lactate and/or WS-3 (N-ethyl-p-menthane-3-carboxamide) and/or WS-23 (2-isopropyl-N,2,3-trimethylbutyramide) and/or Evercool 180™ (available from Givaudan SA)), which may be included to provide a cooling sensation.

In at least one example embodiment, the filler 110 may include the sensate or chemesthesis agent in an amount ranging from about 0.01 wt. % to about 25 wt. % based on the weight of the rod 100. For example, the filler 100 may include greater than or equal to about 0.01 wt. % (e.g., greater than or equal to about 1 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 2 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 4 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 6 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 8 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 10 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 12 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 14 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 16 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 18 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 20 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 22 wt. %, or greater than or equal to about 24 wt. %) of the sensate or chemesthesis agent based on the weight of the rod 100. The filler 110 may include less than or equal to about 25 wt. % (e.g., less than or equal to about 24 wt. %, less than or equal to about 22 wt. %, less than or equal to about 20 wt. %, less than or equal to about 18 wt. %, less than or equal to about 16 wt. %, less than or equal to about 14 wt. %, less than or equal to about 12 wt. %, less than or equal to about 10 wt. %, less than or equal to about 8 wt. %, less than or equal to about 6 wt. %, less than or equal to about 4 wt. %, less than or equal to about 2 wt. %, or less than or equal to about 1 wt. %) of the sensate or chemesthesis agent based on the weight of the rod 100.

In at least one example embodiment, the humectant may be added so as to help maintain the moisture levels of the filler 110. In at least one example embodiment, the humectant may include, for example, glycerol, propylene glycol, or a combination of glycerol and propylene glycol. In at least one example embodiment, the humectants may facilitate aerosol formation through condensation of vapors produced during the heating and inhalation cycles of use. In at least one example embodiment, the filler 110 may include the humectant in an amount ranging from about 5 wt. % to about 50 wt. % based on the weight of the rod 100. For example, the filler 110 may include greater than or equal to about 5 wt. % (e.g., greater than or equal to about 10 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 15 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 20 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 25 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 30 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 35 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 40 wt. %, or greater than or equal to about 45 wt. %) of the humectant based on the weight of the rod 100. The filler 110 may include less than or equal to about 50 wt. % (e.g., less than or equal to about 45 wt. %, less than or equal to about 40 wt. %, less than or equal to about 35 wt. %, less than or equal to about 30 wt. %, less than or equal to about 25 wt. %, less than or equal to about 20 wt. %, less than or equal to about 15 wt. %, or less than or equal to about 10 wt. %) of the humectant based on the weight of the rod 100.

In at least one example embodiment, the pH modifier may include a volatile organic that modifies a pH of the aerosol to modify sensorial experience. In at least one example embodiment, the volatile organic may include, for example, benzoic, lactic, levulinic, oxalic, peruvic, or any combination thereof. In at least one example embodiment, the filler 110 may include the pH modifier in an amount ranging from about 0.01 wt. % to about 5 wt. % based on the weight of the rod 100. For example, the filler 110 may include greater than or equal to about 0.01 wt. % (e.g., greater than or equal to about 0.5 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 1 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 1.5 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 2 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 2.5 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 3 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 3.5 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 4 wt. %, or greater than or equal to about 4.5 wt. %) of the pH modifier based on the weight of the rod 100. The filler 100 may include less than or equal to about 5 wt. % (e.g., less than or equal to about 4.5 wt. %, less than or equal to about 4 wt. %, less than or equal to about 3.5 wt. %, less than or equal to about 3 wt. %, less than or equal to about 2.5 wt. %, less than or equal to about 2 wt. %, less than or equal to about 1.5 wt. %, less than or equal to about 1 wt. %, or less than or equal to about 0.5 wt. %) of the pH modifier based on the weight of the rod 100.

The sweetener may include natural or artificial sweeteners. For example, in at least one example embodiment, sweeteners include water-soluble sweeteners (such as, monosaccharides, disaccharides, polysaccharides, and the like), sugar alcohols (such as, xylitol, mannitol, sorbitol, malitol, and the like), non-nutritive artificial sweeteners (such as, sucralose), or any combination thereof (e.g., water-soluble sweeteners and/or sugar alcohols and/or non-nutritive artificial sweeteners). In at least one example embodiment, the filler 110 may include the sweetener in an amount ranging from about 0.1 wt. % to about 5 wt. % based on the weight of the rod 100. For example, the filler 100 may include greater than or equal to about 0.1 wt. % (e.g., greater than or equal to about 0.5 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 1 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 1.5 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 2 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 2.5 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 3 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 3.5 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 4 wt. %, or greater than or equal to about 4.5 wt. %) of the sweetener based on the weight of the rod 100. The filler 100 may include less than or equal to about 5 wt. % (e.g., less than or equal to about 4.5 wt. %, less than or equal to about 4 wt. %, less than or equal to about 3.5 wt. %, less than or equal to about 3 wt. %, less than or equal to about 2.5 wt. %, less than or equal to about 2 wt. %, less than or equal to about 1.5 wt. %, less than or equal to about 1 wt. %, or less than or equal to about 0.5 wt. %) of the sweetener based on the weight of the rod 100.

In at least one example embodiment, the fibrous material and/or another fibrous material may be mixed and/or combined with a functional ingredient. The functional ingredient may include, for example, an antioxidant, a soothing agent, an energizing agent, an effervescent, any combination thereof (e.g., antioxidant and/or soothing agent and/or energizing agent and/or effervescent), or the like. In at least one example embodiment, the antioxidant may increase the shelf life of any flavor added to the aerosol formers. In at least one example embodiment, antioxidant capacity may be facilitated by inclusion of essential oils, or their specific ingredients such as limonene, alpha-pinene, benzyl acetate, myristicin, citronellol, any combination thereof (e.g., limonene and/or alpha-pinene and/or benzyl acetate and/or myristicin and/or citronellol), or the like. In at least one example embodiment, the soothing agent may include, for example, chamomile, lavender, jasmine, any combination thereof (e.g., chamomile and/or lavender and/or jasmine), or the like. In some example embodiments, the energizing agent may include, for example, caffeine, taurine, guarana, vitamin B6, vitamin B12, any combination thereof (e.g., caffeine and/or taurine and/or guarana and/or vitamin B6 and/or vitamin B12), or the like.

In some example embodiments, the filler 110 may include the functional ingredient in an amount ranging from about 0.05 wt. % to about 10 wt. % based on the weight of the rod 100. For example, the filler 110 may include greater than or equal to about 0.05 wt. % (e.g., greater than or equal to about 0.5 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 1 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 1.5 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 2 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 2.5 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 3 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 3.5 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 4 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 4.5 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 5 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 5.5 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 6 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 6.5 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 7 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 7.5 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 8 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 8.5 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 9 wt. %, or greater than or equal to about 9.5 wt. %) of the functional ingredient based on the weight of the rod 100. The filler 110 may include less than or equal to about 10 wt. % (e.g., less than or equal to about 9.5 wt. %, less than or equal to about 9 wt. %, less than or equal to about 8.5 wt. %, less than or equal to about 8 wt. %, less than or equal to about 7.5 wt. %, less than or equal to about 7 wt. %, less than or equal to about 6.5 wt. %, less than or equal to about 6 wt. %, less than or equal to about 5.5 wt. %, less than or equal to about 5 wt. %, less than or equal to about 4.5 wt. %, less than or equal to about 4 wt. %, less than or equal to about 3.5 wt. %, less than or equal to about 3 wt. %, less than or equal to about 2.5 wt. %, less than or equal to about 2 wt. %, less than or equal to about 1.5 wt. %, less than or equal to about 1 wt. %, or less than or equal to about 0.5 wt. %) of the functional ingredient based on the weight of the rod 100.

In at least one example embodiment, the filter 120 may include, for example, a cellulose acetate filter plug, a hollow acetate tube filter, a crimped paper filter plug, or any combination thereof (e.g., cellulose acetate filter plug and/or hollow acetate tube filter and/or crimped paper filter plug). In at least one example embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 1A, the filter 120 may be a plug-space-plug filter. For example, the filter 120 may include a first filter plug 122, a second filter plug 124, and a space 126 disposed therebetween. The first filter plug 122 may be adjacent to the filler 110. The first and second filter plugs 122, 124 may be the same or different. The first and second filer plugs 122 may each be selected from a cellulose acetate filter plug, a hollow acetate tube filter, a crimped paper filter plug, or any combination thereof (e.g., cellulose acetate filter plug and/or hollow acetate tube filter and/or crimped paper filter plug). For example, as illustrated, the first filter plug 122 may include a hollow acetate tube filter, and the second filter plug 124 may include a cellulose acetate filter plug.

A hollow portion of the filter 120, like the hollow acetate tube, may help to cool down the aerosol moving therethrough. In at least one example embodiment, the hollow acetate tube of the hollow acetate tube filter may have an average outer diameter ranging from about 16 mm to about 30 mm. For example, the average outer diameter of the hollow acetate tube of the hollow acetate tube filter may be greater than or equal to about 16 mm (e.g., greater than or equal to about 17 mm, greater than or equal to about 18 mm, greater than or equal to about 19 mm, greater than or equal to about 20 mm, greater than or equal to about 21 mm, greater than or equal to about 22 mm, greater than or equal to about 23 mm, greater than or equal to about 24 mm, greater than or equal to about 25 mm, greater than or equal to about 26 mm, greater than or equal to about 27 mm, greater than or equal to about 28 mm, or greater than or equal to about 29 mm). The average outer diameter of the hollow acetate tube of the hollow acetate tube filter may be less than or equal to about 30 mm (e.g., less than or equal to about 29 mm, less than or equal to about 28 mm, less than or equal to about 27 mm, less than or equal to about 26 mm, less than or equal to about 25 mm, less than or equal to about 24 mm, less than or equal to about 23 mm, less than or equal to about 22 mm, less than or equal to about 21 mm, less than or equal to about 20 mm, less than or equal to about 19 mm, less than or equal to about 18 mm, of less than or equal to about 17 mm).

In at least one example embodiment, the hollow acetate tube of the hollow acetate tube filter may have an average tube wall thickness of about 6 mm. In at least one example embodiment, the hollow acetate tube of the hollow acetate tube filter may have an average inner cavity diameter ranging from about 4 mm to about 5 mm. For example, the average inner diameter may be greater than or equal to about 4 mm (e.g., greater than or equal to about 4.1 mm, greater than or equal to about 4.2 mm, greater than or equal to about 4.3 mm, greater than or equal to about 4.4 mm, greater than or equal to about 4.5 mm, greater than or equal to about 4.6 mm, greater than or equal to about 4.7 mm, greater than or equal to about 4.8 mm, or greater than or equal to about 4.9 mm). The average inner diameter may be less than or equal to about 5 mm (e.g., less than or equal to about 4.9 mm, less than or equal to about 4.8 mm, less than or equal to about 4.7 mm, less than or equal to about 4.6 mm, less than or equal to about 4.5 mm, less than or equal to about 4.4 mm, less than or equal to about 4.3 mm, less than or equal to about 4.2 mm, or less than or equal to about 4.1 mm).

In at least one example embodiment, the wrapper 140 is made from a material that is generally recognized as safe (“GRAS”) for use and/or contact with food. The material may be stain resistant, water permeable, and/or porous. In at least one example embodiment, the wrapper 140 may include a nonporous paper wrapper (e.g., parliament mouthpiece paper) and/or a hemp wrapper. The wrapper 140 has a desired (or alternatively, predetermined) level for basis weight and/or wet strength in order to reduce occurrence of breakage of the rod 100 during manufacturing operations, storage, and utilization.

The wrapper 140 may have an overall average thickness of about 0.05 mm to about 0.2 mm. For example, the wrapper 140 may have an overall average thickness greater than or equal to about 0.05 mm (e.g., greater than or equal to about 0.06 mm, greater than or equal to about 0.07 mm, greater than or equal to about 0.08 mm, greater than or equal to about 0.09 mm, greater than or equal to about 0.1 mm, greater than or equal to about 0.11 mm, greater than or equal to about 0.12 mm, greater than or equal to about 0.13 mm, greater than or equal to about 0.14 mm, greater than or equal to about 0.15 mm, greater than or equal to about 0.16 mm, greater than or equal to about 0.17 mm, greater than or equal to about 0.18 mm, or greater than or equal to about 0.19 mm). The wrapper 140 may have an overall average thickness less than or equal to about 0.2 mm (e.g., less than or equal to about 0.19 mm, less than or equal to about 0.18 mm, less than or equal to about 0.17 mm, less than or equal to about 0.16 mm, less than or equal to about 0.15 mm, less than or equal to about 0.14 mm, less than or equal to about 0.13 mm, less than or equal to about 0.12 mm, less than or equal to about 0.11 mm, less than or equal to about 0.1 mm, less than or equal to about 0.09 mm, less than or equal to about 0.08 mm, less than or equal to about 0.07 mm, or less than or equal to about 0.06 mm).

The material used to form the wrapper 140 may have a neutral or pleasant taste and/or aroma. In at least one example embodiment, the wrapper 140 is impregnated or coated with a flavorant, a Cannabis material (e.g., an extract of Cannabis), a binder, a sensate or chemesthesis agent, or any combination thereof (e.g., flavorant and/or Cannabis material and/or binder and/or sensate or chemesthesis agent) so as to enhance a flavor of the rod 100. For example, a substantially continuous coating including the flavorant and/or Cannabis material and/or binder and/or sensate or chemesthesis agent may be coated on an outer (exterior facing) and/or an inner (interior facing) surface of the wrapper 140. In the latter instance, the coating may form a complete or partial barrier between the wrapper 140 and the filler 110 and/or filters 120. In each instance, the coating can provide an initial flavor burst upon heating of the rod 100 in a heat-not-burn (HNB) aerosol-generating device configured to receive the rod 100. In at least some example embodiments, the coating may also include functional or salivation inducing ingredients.

In at least one example embodiment, the flavorant for use in or on the wrapper 140 may be any of the flavorants or combinations of flavorants used in the filler 110, as detailed above. The flavorant may be coated on or impregnated in the wrapper 140 in an amount ranging from about 0.01 wt. % to about 5 wt. % based on the weight of the wrapper 140. For example, the coating may include greater than or equal to about 0.01 wt. % (e.g., greater than or equal to about 0.05 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 1 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 1.5 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 2 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 2.5 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 3 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 3.5 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 4 wt. %, or greater than or equal to about 4.5 wt. %) of the flavorant based on the weight of the wrapper 140. The coating may include less than or equal to about 5 wt. % (e.g., less than or equal to about 4.5 wt. %, less than or equal to about 4 wt. %, less than or equal to about 3.5 wt. %, less than or equal to about 3 wt. %, less than or equal to about 2.5 wt. %, less than or equal to about 2 wt. %, less than or equal to about 1.5 wt. %, less than or equal to about 1 wt. %, or less than or equal to about 0.5 wt. %) of the flavorant based on the weight of the wrapper 140.

In at least one example embodiment, the binder for use in or on the wrapper 140 may be a food grade adhesive, gum, or other binder. For example, in some example embodiments, the at least one binder may include, without limitation, sodium alginate, sugar, starch or starch derivatives, agar, guar gum, and the like. The binder may be coated on or impregnated in the wrapper 140 in an amount ranging from about 1 wt. % to about 20 wt. % based on the weight of the wrapper 140. For example, greater than or equal to about 1 wt. % (e.g., greater than or equal to about 5 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 10 wt. %, or greater than or equal to about 15 wt. %) of the binder may be coated on or impregnated in the wrapper 140 based on the weight of the wrapper 140, and less than or equal to about 20 wt. % (e.g., less than or equal to about 20 wt. % (e.g., less than or equal to about 15 wt. %, less than or equal to about 10 wt. %, or less than or equal to about 5 wt. %) of the binder may be coated on or impregnated in the wrapper 140 based on the weight of the wrapper 140.

In at least some example embodiments, the sensate or chemesthesis agent for use in the wrapper 140 may be any of the sensate or chemesthesis agents or combinations of sensate or chemesthesis agents used in the filler 110, as detailed above. The sensate or chemesthesis agent may be coated on or impregnated in the wrapper 140 in an amount ranging from about 0.1 wt. % to about 10 wt. % based on the weight of the wrapper 140. For example, greater than or equal to about 0.1 wt. % (e.g., greater than or equal to about 1 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 2 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 3 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 4 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 5 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 6 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 7 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 8 wt. %, or greater than or equal to about 9 wt. %) of the sensate or chemesthesis agent may be coated on or impregnated in the wrapper 140 based on the weight of the wrapper 140, and less than or equal to about 10 wt. % (e.g., less than or equal to about 9 wt. %, less than or equal to about 8 wt. %, less than or equal to about 7 wt. %, less than or equal to about 6 wt. %, less than or equal to about 5 wt. %, less than or equal to about 4 wt. %, less than or equal to about 3 wt. %, less than or equal to about 2 wt. %, or less than or equal to about 1 wt. %) of the sensate or chemesthesis agent may be coated on or impregnated in the wrapper 140 based on the weight of the wrapper 140.

In at least one example embodiment, the color of the wrapper 140 may be selected so as to identify contents of the filler 110 and/or the coating. For example, a green wrapper 140 may be used to identify a rod 100 including a mint or menthol flavorant in the filler 110, coating, or any other portion of the rod 100.

FIG. 2A is an illustration of an example compressible rod in accordance with at least one example embodiment, and FIG. 2B is a cross-section of the compressible rod illustrated in FIG. 2A along line 1B-1B.

The compressible rod 200 illustrated in FIGS. 2A and 2B is the same as the compressible rod 100 illustrated in FIG. 1A, and includes a filler 210, a hollow portion 214, a filter 220 linearly aligned with the filler 210, and a wrapper 240 that surrounds the filler 210 and the filter 220. However, the wrapper 240 as illustrated in FIGS. 2A and 2B includes a first or inner wrapper 242 and a second or outer wrapper 244. In at least one example embodiment, the inner wrapper 242 includes a hemp wrapper, and the outer wrapper 244 includes a nonporous paper wrapper.

The wrapper 240 may have an overall average thickness ranging from about 0.05 mm to about 0.2 mm. For example, the wrapper 240 may have an overall average thickness greater than or equal to about 0.05 mm (e.g. greater than or equal to about 0.06 mm, greater than or equal to about 0.07 mm, greater than or equal to about 0.08 mm, greater than or equal to about 0.09 mm, greater than or equal to about 0.1 mm, greater than or equal to about 0.11 mm, greater than or equal to about 0.12 mm, greater than or equal to about 0.13 mm, greater than or equal to about 0.14 mm, greater than or equal to about 0.15 mm, greater than or equal to about 0.16 mm, greater than or equal to about 0.17 mm, greater than or equal to about 0.18 mm, or greater than or equal to about 0.19 mm). The wrapper 240 may have an overall average thickness less than or equal to about 0.2 mm (e.g., less than or equal to about 0.19 mm, less than or equal to about 0.18 mm, less than or equal to about 0.17 mm, less than or equal to about 0.16 mm, less than or equal to about 0.15 mm, less than or equal to about 0.14 mm, less than or equal to about 0.13 mm, less than or equal to about 0.12 mm, less than or equal to about 0.11 mm, less than or equal to about 0.1 mm, less than or equal to about 0.09 mm, less than or equal to about 0.08 mm, less than or equal to about 0.07 mm, or less than or equal to about 0.06 mm).

The inner wrapper 242 may have an average thickness ranging from about 0.05 mm to about 0.2 mm. For example, the inner wrapper 242 may have an average thickness greater than or equal to about 0.05 mm (e.g., greater than or equal to about 0.06 mm, greater than or equal to about 0.07 mm, greater than or equal to about 0.08 mm, greater than or equal to about 0.09 mm, greater than or equal to about 0.1 mm, greater than or equal to about 0.11 mm, greater than or equal to about 0.12 mm, greater than or equal to about 0.13 mm, greater than or equal to about 0.14 mm, greater than or equal to about 0.15 mm, greater than or equal to about 0.16 mm, greater than or equal to about 0.17 mm, greater than or equal to about 0.18 mm, or greater than or equal to about 0.19 mm). The inner wrapper 242 may have an average thickness less than or equal to about 0.2 mm (e.g., less than or equal to about 0.19 mm, less than or equal to about 0.18 mm, less than or equal to about 0.17 mm, less than or equal to about 0.16 mm, less than or equal to about 0.15 mm, less than or equal to about 0.14 mm, less than or equal to about 0.13 mm, less than or equal to about 0.12 mm, less than or equal to about 0.11 mm, less than or equal to about 0.1 mm, less than or equal to about 0.09 mm, less than or equal to about 0.08 mm, less than or equal to about 0.07 mm, or less than or equal to about 0.06 mm).

The outer wrapper 244 may have an average thickness ranging from about 0.05 mm to about 0.2 mm. For example, the outer wrapper 244 may have an average thickness greater than or equal to about 0.05 mm (e.g., greater than or equal to about 0.06 mm, greater than or equal to about 0.07 mm, greater than or equal to about 0.08 mm, greater than or equal to about 0.09 mm, greater than or equal to about 0.1 mm, greater than or equal to about 0.11 mm, greater than or equal to about 0.12 mm, greater than or equal to about 0.13 mm, greater than or equal to about 0.14 mm, greater than or equal to about 0.15 mm, greater than or equal to about 0.16 mm, greater than or equal to about 0.17 mm, greater than or equal to about 0.18 mm, or greater than or equal to about 0.19 mm). The outer wrapper 244 may have an average thickness less than or equal to about 0.2 mm (e.g., less than or equal to about 0.19 mm, less than or equal to about 0.18 mm, less than or equal to about 0.17 mm, less than or equal to about 0.16 mm, less than or equal to about 0.15 mm, less than or equal to about 0.14 mm, less than or equal to about 0.13 mm, less than or equal to about 0.12 mm, less than or equal to about 0.11 mm, less than or equal to about 0.1 mm, less than or equal to about 0.09 mm, less than or equal to about 0.08 mm, less than or equal to about 0.07 mm, or less than or equal to about 0.06 mm).

Like wrapper 140, one or both of the inner wrapper 242 and/or the outer wrapper 244 may be impregnated or coated with a flavorant, a Cannabis material, a binder, a sensate or chemesthesis agent, or any combination thereof (e.g., flavorant and/or Cannabis material and/or binder and/or sensate or chemesthesis agent), so as to enhance a flavor of the filler 210.

FIG. 3A is an illustration of an example compressible rod in accordance with at least one example embodiment, and FIG. 3B is a cross-section of the compressible rod illustrated in FIG. 3A along line 3B-3B.

In at least one example embodiment, the compressible rod 300 illustrated in FIGS. 3A and 3B is the same as the compressible rod 100 illustrated in FIG. 1A and/or the compressible rod 200 illustrated in FIG. 1B, and includes a filler 310, a hollow portion 314, a filter 320 linearly aligned with the filler 310, and a wrapper 340 that surrounds the filler 310 and the filter 320. However, the compressible rod 300 of FIGS. 3A and 3B is in the form of a concentrically wrapped paper 312 having a hollow portion 314

In at least one example embodiment, like filler 110 and/or filler 210, the filler 310 includes a fibrous material, such as, for example only, a tobacco material and/or Cannabis material. As illustrated in FIGS. 3A and 3B, the filler 310 includes the tobacco material and/or Cannabis material and/or the other fibrous plant material in the form of a concentrically wrapped paper 312. For example, the filler 310 may include concentrically wrapped hemp paper or other pressed paper including a Cannabis material, and in certain instance, other fibrous materials. In at least one example embodiment, the concentrically wrapped paper 312 may be coated or impregnated with one or more additives, such as applied to the filler 110 and/or filler 210 as discussed above.

FIG. 4A is an illustration of an example compressible rod in accordance with at least one example embodiment, and FIG. 4B is a cross-section of the compressible rod illustrated in FIG. 4A along line 4B-4B.

The compressible rod 400 illustrated in FIGS. 4A and 4B is same as the compressible rod 100 illustrated in FIG. 1A and/or the compressible rod 200 illustrated in FIG. 2 and/or the compressible rod 300 illustrated in FIG. 3A, and includes a filler 410, a hollow portion 414, a filter 420 linearly aligned with the filler 410, and a wrapper 440 that surrounds the filler 410 and the filter 420. However, the filler 410 as illustrated in FIGS. 4A and 4B includes a fibrous material in the form of a combination of loose material 412 mixed with pieces of second material 416 disposed around a hollow portion 414.

In at least one example embodiment, like filler 110 and/or filler 210 and/or filler 310, the filler 410 includes a fibrous material, such as, for example only, a tobacco material and/or a Cannabis material. As illustrated in FIGS. 4A and 4B, the filler 410 includes the tobacco material and/or Cannabis material and/or the other fibrous plant material in the form of a loose material 412. The loose material 412 is mixed with pieces of a second material 416.

In at least one example embodiment, the filler 410 may include an amount of the loose material 412 ranging from about 80 wt. % to about 100 wt. %. For example, the filler 410 may include greater than or equal to about 80 wt. % (e.g., greater than or equal to about 82 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 84 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 86 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 88 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 90 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 92 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 94 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 96 wt. %, or greater than or equal to about 98 wt. %) of the loose material 412. The filler 410 may include less than or equal to about 100 wt. % (e.g., less than or equal to about 98 wt. %, less than or equal to about 96 wt. %, less than or equal to about 94 wt. %, less than or equal to about 92 wt. %, less than or equal to about 90 wt. %, less than or equal to about 88 wt. %, less than or equal to about 86 wt. %, less than or equal to about 84 wt. %, or less than or equal to about 82 wt. %) of the loose material 412.

In at least one example embodiment, the filler 410 may include amount of the second material 416 ranging from about 0 wt. % to about 20 wt. %. For example, the filler 410 may include greater than 0 wt. % (e.g., greater than or equal to about 2 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 4 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 6 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 8 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 10 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 12 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 14 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 16 wt. %, or greater than or equal to about 18 wt. %). The filler 410 may include less than or equal to about 20 wt. % (e.g., less than or equal to about 18 wt. %, less than or equal to about 16 wt. %, less than or equal to about 14 wt. %, less than or equal to about 12 wt. %, less than or equal to about 10 wt. %, less than or equal to about 8 wt. %, less than or equal to about 6 wt. %, less than or equal to about 4 wt. %, or less than or equal to about 2 wt. %).

In at least one example embodiment, the second material 416 may be homogenously distributed within the loose material 412. In at least one example embodiment, the loose material 412 may include, for example, tobacco filler or other natural leafy material or extruded fibers of a biopolymer (such as starch, alginates, etc.), and the paper or sheet pieces 416 may include hemp paper. In at least one example embodiment, the paper pieces 416 and/or loose material 412 may be coated or impregnated with one or more additives, such as applied to the filler 110 and/or filler 210 and/or filler 310, as discussed above.

FIG. 5A is an illustration of an example compressible rod in accordance with at least one example embodiment; FIG. 5B is a cross-section of the compressible rod illustrated in FIG. 5A along ling 5B-5B; and FIG. 5C is an illustration of crimped paper as used, for example, to form a portion of the compressible rod.

The compressible rod 500 illustrated in FIGS. 5A and 5B is same as the compressible rod 100 illustrated in FIG. 1A and/or the compressible rod 200 illustrated in FIG. 2 and/or the compressible rod 300 illustrated in FIG. 3A and/or the compressible rod 400 illustrated in FIG. 4A, and includes a filler 510, a hollow portion 514, a filter 520 linearly aligned with the filler 510, and a wrapper 540 that surrounds the filler 510 and the filter 520. However, as illustrated in FIGS. 5A and 5B, the rod 500 further includes a fibrous material in the form of a crimped paper 512 disposed around the hollow portion 514. As illustrated in FIG. 5C, the crimped paper 512 may include a plurality of peaks 515 in one or more directions relative to a center axis 513.

In at least one example embodiment, like filler 110 and/or filler 210 and/or filler 310 and/or filler 410, the filler 510 includes a fibrous material, such as, for example only, a tobacco material and/or Cannabis material. As illustrated in FIGS. 5A and 5B, the filler 510 includes the tobacco material and/or Cannabis material and/or the other fibrous plant material in the form of a crimped paper 512. In at least one example embodiment, the compactness of the crimped paper may be tailored to provide for effective heat and mass transfer throughout the heated material 510 and resistance to draw. In at least one example embodiment, the crimped paper 512 may be coated or impregnated with one or more additives, such as applied to the filler 110 and/or filler 210 and/or filler 310 and/or filler 410, as discussed above.

FIG. 6A is an illustration of an example compressible rod in accordance with at least one example embodiment, and FIG. 6B is a cross-section of the compressible rod illustrated in FIG. 6A along ling 6B-6B.

The compressible rod 600 illustrated in FIGS. 6A and 6B is same as the compressible rod 100 illustrated in FIG. 1A and/or the compressible rod 200 illustrated in FIG. 2 and/or the compressible rod 300 illustrated in FIG. 3A and/or the compressible rod 400 illustrated in FIG. 4A and/or the compressible rod 500 illustrated in FIG. 5A, and includes a filler 610, a hollow portion 614, a filter 620 linearly aligned with the filler 610, and a wrapper 640 that surrounds the filler 610 and the filter 620. However, the filler 610 as illustrated in FIGS. 6A and 6B includes a fibrous material having one or more layers 612, 616.

In at least one example embodiment, like filler 110 and/or filler 210 and/or filler 310 and/or filler 410 and/or filler 510, the filler 610 includes a fibrous material, such as, for example only, a tobacco material and/or Cannabis material. As illustrated in FIGS. 6A and 6B, the filler 610 includes the tobacco material and/or Cannabis material and/or the other fibrous plant material in the form of a one or more layers 612, 616 disposed around and defining the hollow portion 614. For example, the filler 610 may include a first layer 612 of the one or more layers disposed closest to the hollow portion 614, and a second layer 616 of the one or more layers disposed away from the hollow portion (i.e., in between the first layer 612 and the wrapper 640), as illustrated.

In at least one example embodiment, the first layer 612 includes a first material. The first material may include, for example, a tobacco gel, a tobacco powder, reconstituted tobacco, tobacco fibers or any combination thereof. In at least one example embodiment, the second layer 614 includes a second material. The second material may be the same or different from the first material. For example, the second material may include a tobacco gel, a tobacco powder, reconstituted tobacco, tobacco fibers or any combination thereof. In each instance, the first layer 612 and/or the second layer 616 may be coated or impregnated with one or more additives, such as applied to the filler 110 and/or filler 210 and/or filler 310 and/or filler 410 and/or filler 510, as discussed above.

FIG. 7A is an illustration of an example compressible rod in accordance with at least one example embodiment, and FIG. 7B is a cross-section of the compressible rod illustrated in FIG. 7A along ling 7B-7B.

The compressible rod 700 illustrated in FIGS. 7A and 7B is same as the compressible rod 100 illustrated in FIG. 1A and/or the compressible rod 200 illustrated in FIG. 2 and/or the compressible rod 300 illustrated in FIG. 3A and/or the compressible rod 400 illustrated in FIG. 4A and/or the compressible rod 500 illustrated in FIG. 5A and/or the compressible rod 600 illustrated in FIG. 6A, and includes a filler 710, a hollow portion 714, a filter 720 linearly aligned with the filler 710, and a wrapper 740 that surrounds the filler 710 and the filter 720. However, the filler 710 as illustrated in FIGS. 7A and 7B further includes a fibrous material having two or more layers 712, 716, 718.

In at least one example embodiment, like filler 110 and/or filler 210 and/or filler 310 and/or filler 410 and/or filler 510, the filler 710 includes a fibrous material, such as, for example only, a tobacco material and/or Cannabis material. As illustrated in FIGS. 7A and 7B, the filler 710 includes the tobacco material and/or Cannabis material and/or the other fibrous plant material in the form of a two or more layers 712, 716, 718 disposed around and defining the hollow portion 714. For example, the filler 710 may include a first layer 712, a second layer 716, and a third layer 718. The first layer 712 of the two or more layers may be disposed closest to the hollow portion 714. The second and third layers 716, 718 of the two or more layers may be disposed on or adjacent to an exterior-facing surface of the first layer 712. In at least one example embodiment, as illustrated, the third layer 718 may be disposed between the second layer 716 and the wrapper 740. In other example embodiments, although not illustrated, the third layer 718 may be disposed between the first layer 712 and the second layer 716.

In each instance, the first layer 712, the second layer 716, and the third layer 718 may be the same or different. For example, the first layer 712 may include a first material. The first material includes, for example, a tobacco gel, a tobacco powder, reconstituted tobacco, tobacco fibers or any combination thereof. The second layer 714 may include a second material. The second material includes, for example, a tobacco gel, a tobacco powder, reconstituted tobacco, tobacco fibers or any combination thereof. The third layer 718 may include a third material. The third material includes, for example, a flavor material. The flavor material includes a flavor gel, a flavor powder, encapsulated flavor beads, or any combination thereof. In each instance, the first layer 712 and/or the second layer 716 and/or the third layer 718 may be coated or impregnated with one or more additives, such as applied to the filler 110 and/or filler 210 and/or filler 310 and/or filler 410 and/or filler 510 and/or filler 610, as discussed above.

In at least one example embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 7B, the first layer 712, the second layer 716, and the third layer 718 may each have different effective permeabilities, which may be captured by the openness of the layer. It should be understood that the openness of layer may change upon compression to conform to the outer space defined by the receiving portion of the device. In at least one example embodiment, the first layer 712, the second layer 716, and the third layer 718 may each have a different density. The density of the layers may also relate to the openness of the layer and the density of the solid material included in the layer.

In at least one example embodiment, the first layer 712 may have a first air void openness that ranges from about 10% to about 70% of a total volume of the first layer 712. For example, the first layer 712 may have an air void openness greater than or equal to about 10% (e.g., greater than or equal to about 15%, greater than or equal to about 20%, greater than or equal to about 25%, greater than or equal to about 30%, greater than or equal to about 35%, greater than or equal to about 40%, greater than or equal to about 45%, greater than or equal to about 50%, greater than or equal to about 55%, greater than or equal to about 60%, or greater than or equal to about 65%). The first layer 712 may have an air void openness less than or equal to about 70% (e.g., less than or equal to about 65%, less than or equal to about 60%, less than or equal to about 55%, less than or equal to about 50%, less than or equal to about 45%, less than or equal to about 40%, less than or equal to about 35%, less than or equal to about 30%, less than or equal to about 25%, less than or equal to about 20%, or less than or equal to about 15%).

In at least one example embodiment, the second layer 716 may have a second air void openness that ranges from about 10% to about 70% of a total volume of the second layer 716. For example, the second layer 716 may have an air void openness greater than or equal to about 10% (e.g., greater than or equal to about 15%, greater than or equal to about 20%, greater than or equal to about 25%, greater than or equal to about 30%, greater than or equal to about 35%, greater than or equal to about 40%, greater than or equal to about 45%, greater than or equal to about 50%, greater than or equal to about 55%, greater than or equal to about 60%, or greater than or equal to about 65%). The second layer 716 may have an air void openness less than or equal to about 70% (e.g., less than or equal to about 65%, less than or equal to about 60%, less than or equal to about 55%, less than or equal to about 50%, less than or equal to about 45%, less than or equal to about 40%, less than or equal to about 35%, less than or equal to about 30%, less than or equal to about 25%, less than or equal to about 20%, or less than or equal to about 15%). The second air void openness may be different from the first air void openness.

In at least one example embodiment, the third layer 718 may have a third air void openness that ranges from about 10% to about 70% of a total volume third layer. For example, the third layer 718 may have an air void openness greater than or equal to about 10% (e.g., greater than or equal to about 15%, greater than or equal to about 20%, greater than or equal to about 25%, greater than or equal to about 30%, greater than or equal to about 35%, greater than or equal to about 40%, greater than or equal to about 45%, greater than or equal to about 50%, greater than or equal to about 55%, greater than or equal to about 60%, or greater than or equal to about 65%). The third layer 718 may have an air void openness less than or equal to about 70% (e.g., less than or equal to about 65%, less than or equal to about 60%, less than or equal to about 55%, less than or equal to about 50%, less than or equal to about 45%, less than or equal to about 40%, less than or equal to about 35%, less than or equal to about 30%, less than or equal to about 25%, less than or equal to about 20%, or less than or equal to about 15%). The third air void openness may be different from the first air void openness and/or the second air void openness.

FIG. 8A is an illustration of an example compressible rod in accordance with at least one example embodiment, and FIG. 8B is a cross-section of the compressible rod illustrated in FIG. 8A along ling 8B-8B.

The compressible rod 800 illustrated in FIGS. 8A and 8B is same as the compressible rod 100 illustrated in FIG. 1A and/or the compressible rod 200 illustrated in FIG. 2 and/or the compressible rod 300 illustrated in FIG. 3A and/or the compressible rod 400 illustrated in FIG. 4A and/or the compressible rod 500 illustrated in FIG. 5A and/or the compressible rod 600 illustrated in FIG. 6A and/or the compressible rod 700 illustrated in FIG. 7A, and includes a filler 810, a hollow portion 814, a filter 820 linearly aligned with the filler 810, and a wrapper 840 that surrounds the filler 810 and the filter 820. However, the filler 810 of the rod 800 illustrated in FIGS. 8A and 8B includes a layer of conductive metal 812.

In at least one example embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 8B, a layer of conductive metal 812 may be disposed on an interior surface of the rod 800. For example, the layer of conductive metal 812 may surround or define the hollow portion 814. In at least one example embodiment, although not illustrated, the layer of conductive metal 812 may be disposed on an exterior surface of the filler 810 (i.e., between the filler 810 and the wrapper 840). In at least one example embodiment, although not illustrated, the compressible rod may include two layers of conductive metal. For example, a first layer of conductive metal may be on an interior surface of the rod (as illustrated in FIG. 8B), and a second layer of conductive metal may be on an exterior surface of the rod (i.e., between the filler and the wrapper).

In at least one example embodiment, the layer(s) of conductive metal may include a metal or metal alloy, such as aluminum, aluminum alloys, stainless steel, any combination thereof and the like. In at least one example embodiment, may have an average thickness ranging from about 0.05 mm to less than or equal to about 0.25 mm. For example, the conductive metal 812 may have an average thickness greater than or equal to about 0.05 mm (e.g., greater than or equal to about 0.06 mm, greater than or equal to about 0.07 mm, greater than or equal to about 0.08 mm, greater than or equal to about 0.09 mm, greater than or equal to about 0.1 mm, greater than or equal to about 0.11 mm, greater than or equal to about 0.12 mm, greater than or equal to about 0.13 mm, greater than or equal to about 0.14 mm, greater than or equal to about 0.15 mm, greater than or equal to about 0.16 mm, greater than or equal to about 0.17 mm, greater than or equal to about 0.18 mm, greater than or equal to about 0.19 mm, greater than or equal to about 0.20 mm, greater than or equal to about 0.21 mm, greater than or equal to about 0.22 mm, greater than or equal to about 0.23 mm, or greater than or equal to about 0.24 mm). The conductive metal 812 may have an average thickness less than or equal to about 0.25 mm (e.g., less than or equal to about 0.24 mm, less than or equal to about 0.23 mm, less than or equal to about 0.22 mm, less than or equal to about 0.21 mm, less than or equal to about 0.2 mm, less than or equal to about 0.19 mm, less than or equal to about 0.18 mm, less than or equal to about 0.17 mm, less than or equal to about 0.16 mm, less than or equal to about 0.15 mm, less than or equal to about 0.14 mm, less than or equal to about 0.13 mm, less than or equal to about 0.12 mm, less than or equal to about 0.11 mm, less than or equal to about 0.1 mm, less than or equal to about 0.09 mm, less than or equal to about 0.08 mm, less than or equal to about 0.07 mm, or less than or equal to about 0.06 mm).

In at least one example embodiment, the hollow portion 814 may have an average diameter ranging from about 1 mm to about 3 mm. For example, the hollow portion 814 may have an average diameter greater than or equal to about 1 mm (e.g., greater than or equal to about 1.25 mm, greater than or equal to about 1.5 mm, greater than or equal to about 1.75 mm, greater than or equal to about 2 mm, greater than or equal to about 2.25 mm, greater than or equal to about 2.5 mm, or greater than or equal to about 2.75 mm). The hollow portion 814 may have an average diameter less than or equal to about 3 mm (e.g., less than or equal to about 2.75 mm, less than or equal to about 2.5 mm, less than or equal to about 2.25 mm, less than or equal to about 2 mm, less than or equal to about 1.75 mm, less than or equal to about 1.5 mm, or less than or equal to about 1.25 mm).

FIG. 9A is an illustration of an example compressible rod in accordance with at least one example embodiment, and FIG. 9B is a cross-sectional illustration of the compressible rod illustrated in FIG. 9A along line 9B-9B prior to compression.

The compressible rod 900 illustrated in FIGS. 9A and 9B is same as the compressible rod 100 illustrated in FIG. 1A and/or the compressible rod 200 illustrated in FIG. 2 and/or the compressible rod 300 illustrated in FIG. 3A and/or the compressible rod 400 illustrated in FIG. 4A and/or the compressible rod 500 illustrated in FIG. 5A and/or the compressible rod 600 illustrated in FIG. 6A and/or the compressible rod 700 illustrated in FIG. 7A and/or the compressible rod 800 illustrated in FIG. 8A, and includes a filler 910, a hollow portion 914, a filter 920 linearly aligned with the filler 910, and a wrapper 940 that surrounds the filler 910 and the filter 920. However, the filter 920 of the rod 900 illustrated in FIGS. 9A and 9B is in the form of a crimped paper filter plug 922.

FIG. 10A is an illustration of an example compressible rod in accordance with at least one example embodiment, and FIG. 10B is a cross-sectional illustration of the compressible rod illustrated in FIG. 10A along line 10B-10B prior to compression.

The compressible rod 1000 illustrated in FIGS. 10A and 10B is same as the compressible rod 100 illustrated in FIG. 1A and/or the compressible rod 200 illustrated in FIG. 2 and/or the compressible rod 300 illustrated in FIG. 3A and/or the compressible rod 400 illustrated in FIG. 4A and/or the compressible rod 500 illustrated in FIG. 5A and/or the compressible rod 600 illustrated in FIG. 6A and/or the compressible rod 700 illustrated in FIG. 7A and/or the compressible rod 800 illustrated in FIG. 8A and/or the compressible rod 900 illustrated in FIG. 9, and includes a filler 1010, a hollow portion 1014, and a wrapper 1040 that surrounds the filler 1010. However, the rod 1000 illustrated in FIGS. 10A and 10B does not include a filter, and instead includes a mouthpiece 1020 linearly aligned with the filler 1010, as illustrated in FIG. 10A.

In at least one example embodiment, the mouthpiece 1020 may be configured to help cool down the aerosol, and also to be comfortably received in the adult consumer's mouth. In at least one example embodiment, the mouthpiece 1020 is a wood mouthpiece. In other embodiments, the mouthpiece 1020 is a plastic, metal, or made from a biodegradable material, like pulp. In each instance, the mouthpiece 1020 may be configured to receive a portion of the filler 1010 and/or wrapper 1040. For example, in at least one example embodiment, the mouthpiece 1020 may extend around a portion of the filler 1010 and/or wrapper 1040.

In at least some example embodiments, the compressible rods prepared in accordance with one or more example embodiments of the present disclosure may be inserted so as to surround at least a portion of a heater of a heat-not-burn (HNB) aerosol-generating device. That is, the hollow portion of the compressible rod may receive the heating unit, such that the compressible rod is subject to more efficient heating because a greater amount of the total surface area of the compressible rod is readily exposed to the heating unit.

Compressible rods prepared in accordance with one or more example embodiments of the present disclosure (such as illustrated in FIGS. 1A-10) may be used, for example, in aerosol-generating devices (e.g., heat-not-burn (HNB) aerosol-generating devices), which are configured to receive rods.

In at least some example embodiments, the heat-not-burn (HNB) aerosol-generating device may be an electrically heated smoking system as described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,803,545, issued Oct. 12, 2004, the entire contents of which is incorporated herein by this reference thereto, and further including the Cannabis rods as described above.

In at least some example embodiments, the heat-not-burn (HNB) aerosol-generating device may be an electrically heated cigarette smoking system with internal manifolding for puff detection as described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,810,883, issued Nov. 2, 2004, the entire contents of which is incorporated herein by this reference thereto, and further including the Cannabis rods as described above.

In at least some example embodiments, the heat-not-burn (HNB) aerosol-generating device may be an elongate heater for an electrically heated aerosol-generating system as described in U.S. Pat. No. 10,299,511, issued May 28, 2019, the entire contents of which is incorporated herein by this reference thereto, and further including the Cannabis rods as described above.

FIGS. 11A and 11B are cross-sectional illustrations of an example compressible rod 1140, prepared in accordance with one or more example embodiments of the present disclosure, where a heating unit 1160 of a heat-not-burn (HNB) aerosol-generating device is received by a hollow portion 1142 of the compressible rod 1140. FIG. 11A illustrates a resting state, while FIG. 11B illustrates a compressed state. The heating unit 1160 may be a blade heater that includes, for example, a non-conductive substrate having conductive or resistive tracks formed thereon or therein. In at least some example embodiments, although not illustrated, the heat-not-burn (HNB) aerosol-generating device may include multiple heaters and may be configured to receive multiple compressible rods, for example only, in a pile type arrangement. In each instance, the cross section of the heating unit 1160 is selected such that contact between the heating unit 1160 and an inner surface 1144 of the compressible rod 1140 is maximized. FIGS. 11A and 11B illustrate only one example. For example, although not illustrated, it should that, in at least some example embodiments, a serrated cross section may provide for maximal surface contact and efficient heat transfer.

FIG. 12 is a schematic, cross-sectional view of an aerosol-generating device configured to receive a rod 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900, 1000 as described herein.

In at least one example embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 12, an aerosol-generating device 1200 includes a housing, 1210, a control system or controller 1220 that is in communication with (e.g., operationally connected, for example, electrically coupled via one or more conductive elements, such as electrical leads or conductive elements) with one or more sensors 1240 (e.g., air flow sensor), a power supply or source 1250 (e.g., battery), and/or a heating unit or heater 1260. The controller 1220 may be configured to establish an electrical circuit between the power source 1250 and the heater 1260 and/or the power source 1250 and the one or more sensors 1240 and/or the power source 1250, the heater 1260, and the one or more sensors 1240. In this manner, the controller 1220 may be configured to operate as a switching device to selectively enable, disable, and/or adjust the supply of electrical power (e.g., electrical current) from the power supply to the heater and/or from the power supply to the one or more sensors and/or from the power supply to the heater and/or the one or more sensors.

In at least some example embodiments, the controller 1220 may be processing circuitry such as hardware including logic circuits; a hardware/software combination such as a processor executing software stored in a memory; or a combination thereof. For example, the processing circuitry more specifically may include, but is not limited to, a central processing unit (CPU), an arithmetic logic unit (ALU), a digital signal processor, a microcomputer, a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a System-on-Chip (SoC), a programmable logic unit, a microprocessor, application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), etc. In at least some example embodiments, the heating unit or heater is configured to increase the temperature of (e.g., heat) compressible rods that are disposed within (e.g., inserted into) the heat-not-burn (HNB) aerosol-generating device. The compressible rods are prepared in accordance with one or more example embodiments of the present disclosure, such as illustrated in FIGS. 1A-10.

As illustrated, the heater 1260 is within a cavity 1280, which is configured to receive the rod 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900, 1000 as described herein.

In each instance, methods for generating an aerosol may include inserting a compressible rod into a cavity of an aerosol-generating device, while compressing the compressible rod about a heater, electrically contacting a plurality of electrodes with the heater, and supplying an electric current to the heater via the plurality of electrodes.

While some example embodiments have been disclosed herein, it should be understood that other variations may be possible. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure, and all such modifications as would be obvious to one skilled in the art are intended to be included within the scope of the following claims.

Although described with reference to specific examples and drawings, modifications, additions, and substitutions of example embodiments may be variously made according to the description by those of ordinary skill in the art. For example, the described techniques may be performed in an order different with that of the methods described, and/or elements such as the described system, architecture, devices, circuit, and the like, may be connected or combined to be different from the above-described methods, or results may be appropriately achieved by other elements or equivalents.

Claims

1. A compressible rod for an aerosol-generating device, the compressible rod comprising:

a first layer including a first material including tobacco; and

a wrapper circumscribing the first layer, the compressible rod having a circular cross-sectional shape and a hollow center, the compressible rod configured to be compressed, such that the compressible rod has a non-circular cross-sectional shape after compression.

2. The compressible rod of claim 1, wherein the first material includes a tobacco gel, a tobacco powder, reconstituted tobacco, tobacco fibers, or any combination thereof.

3. The compressible rod of claim 1, further comprising:

a second layer including a second material.

4. The compressible rod of claim 3, wherein the second material includes a tobacco gel, a tobacco powder, reconstituted tobacco, tobacco fibers, or any combination thereof.

5. The compressible rod of claim 3, wherein the second layer is between the wrapper and the first layer.

6. The compressible rod of claim 3, wherein the first layer is between the wrapper and the second layer.

7. The compressible rod of claim 3, further including:

a third layer including a flavor material, the flavor material including a flavor gel, a flavor powder, encapsulated flavor beads, or any combination thereof.

8. The compressible rod of claim 7, wherein the first layer, the second layer, and the third layer each have a different permeability.

9. The compressible rod of claim 7, wherein the first layer, the second layer, and the third layer each have a different density.

10. The compressible rod of claim 7, wherein the third layer is between the first layer and the second layer.

11. The compressible rod of claim 7, wherein the second layer is between the first layer and the third layer.

12. The compressible rod of claim 3, wherein the first material and the second material are the same.

13. The compressible rod of claim 3, wherein the first material and the second material are different.

14. The compressible rod of claim 1, further including:

a layer of a conductive metal, the layer of conductive metal being on an exterior surface of the compressible rod, an interior surface of the compressible rod, or both the exterior and interior surfaces of the compressible rod.

15. The compressible rod of claim 14, wherein the conductive metal includes aluminum.

16. The compressible rod of claim 1, wherein the wrapper includes a paper, a polymer, or both a paper and a polymer.

17. The compressible rod of claim 1, further including:

a filter at an end of the compressible rod, the filter not including a hollow portion.

18. A compressible rod for an aerosol-generating device, the compressible rod comprising:

a first layer including an inner surface circumscribing a hollow portion, the first layer including a first material including tobacco; and

an outer wrapper circumscribing the first layer.

19. The compressible rod of claim 18, wherein the inner surface includes a thermally conductive material.

20. The compressible rod of claim 18, wherein the thermally conductive material is deformable.

21. The compressible rod of claim 18, further comprising:

a second layer including a second material, the second material including a tobacco gel, a tobacco powder, reconstituted tobacco, tobacco fibers, or any combination thereof.

22. The compressible rod of claim 21, wherein the second layer is between the outer wrapper and the first layer.

23. The compressible rod of claim 21, wherein the first layer is between the outer wrapper and the second layer.

24. The compressible rod of claim 21, further including:

a third layer including a flavor material, the flavor material including a flavor gel, a flavor powder, encapsulated flavor beads, or any combination thereof.

25. The compressible rod of claim 24, wherein the first layer, the second layer, and the third layer each have a different permeability or a different density.

26. The compressible rod of claim 24, wherein the third layer is between the first layer and the second layer.

27. The compressible rod of claim 24, wherein the second layer is between the first layer and the third layer.

28. The compressible rod of claim 18, further including:

a layer of a conductive metal, the layer of conductive metal being on an exterior surface of the compressible rod, the inner surface, or both the exterior surface and the inner surface.

29. The compressible rod of claim 28, wherein the conductive metal includes aluminum.

30. An aerosol-generating device comprising:

a compressible rod including, a first layer including a first material including tobacco, and a wrapper circumscribing the first layer, the compressible rod having a circular cross-sectional shape and a hollow center, the compressible rod configured to be compressed, such that the compressible rod has a non-circular cross-sectional shape after compression;

an outer housing defining a cavity, the cavity configured to receive the compressible rod after compression; and

a heater in the outer housing.

31. The aerosol-generating device of claim 30, wherein:

the heater includes a blade heater, and

the heater is received within the hollow center.

32. A method of generating an aerosol comprising:

inserting a compressible rod into a cavity of an aerosol-generating device, while compressing the compressible rod about a heater;

electrically contacting a plurality of electrodes with the heater; and

supplying an electric current to the heater via the plurality of electrodes.