阅读说明：本技术 无烟香烟 (Smokeless cigarette ) 是由 M.科勒 于 2009-06-29 设计创作，主要内容包括：本发明包括一种无烟香烟,其具有自发热的热单元和包含有尼古丁或含尼古丁化合物的尼古丁储器,其中所述热单元包括可结晶介质,该可结晶介质在其结晶期间释放热。(The invention comprises a smokeless cigarette having a self-heating thermal unit and a nicotine reservoir containing nicotine or a nicotine-containing compound, wherein the thermal unit comprises a crystallizable medium that releases heat during crystallization thereof.)

1. A smokeless cigarette having a self-heating thermal unit and a nicotine reservoir containing nicotine or a nicotine-containing compound, wherein the thermal unit comprises a crystallizable medium that releases heat during crystallization thereof.

2. Smokeless cigarette according to claim 1, characterized in that the thermal unit is heated to a temperature between 40 ℃ and 70 ℃, preferably to a temperature between 45 ℃ and 55 ℃.

3. Smokeless cigarette according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the thermal unit heats continuously for a period of 3 to 15 minutes, preferably for a period of 5 to 10 minutes.

4. Smokeless cigarette according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the crystallizable medium is a supersaturated metastable solution.

5. Smokeless cigarette according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the crystallizable medium comprises or consists of a liquid containing salt water.

6. The smokeless cigarette of claim 5 wherein the water of hydration is sodium acetate trihydrate and/or mirabilite and/or magnesium nitrate hexahydrate.

7. Smokeless cigarette according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the smokeless cigarette is configured as one piece.

8. Smokeless cigarette according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the smokeless cigarette is configured as a disposable item in its entirety.

9. Smokeless cigarette according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the smokeless cigarette comprises an outer encapsulation surrounding the nicotine reservoir and the thermal unit.

10. Smokeless cigarette according to claim 7, characterized in that the cigarette comprises a mouthpiece, in particular in the form of a filter, wherein the outer encapsulation surrounds the nicotine reservoir, the thermal unit and the mouthpiece, wherein the outer encapsulation preferably mechanically connects the mouthpiece with the nicotine reservoir and the thermal unit.

11. The smokeless cigarette of any one of claims 6, 7, and 8, comprising an outer enclosure comprising a plurality of layers, an outer layer of the plurality of layers having the visual characteristics of a conventional cigarette, one additional layer of the plurality of layers being a desorption barrier configured to prevent or limit desorption of nicotine and/or flavoring agents, one additional layer of the plurality of layers being a stabilization layer configured to provide mechanical stability to the cigarette required for use.

12. Smokeless cigarette according to one of claims 6 to 9, characterized by an outer packaging comprising a plurality of layers, an outer layer of which is made of or comprises paper, one further layer of which is made of or comprises metal, one further layer of which is made of or comprises plastic material.

13. Smokeless cigarette according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cigarette further comprises a trigger mechanism actuated by the user, which trigger mechanism initiates the crystallization process.

14. Smokeless cigarette according to one of the preceding claims having a self-heating thermal unit and a nicotine reservoir containing nicotine or a nicotine-containing compound, wherein a trigger mechanism is provided by means of which the thermal unit is activated upon actuation of the trigger mechanism, characterized in that the trigger mechanism is configured such that the trigger mechanism or a part thereof can be activated upon application of a compressive force.

15. Smokeless cigarette according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a self-heating thermal unit and a nicotine reservoir containing nicotine or a nicotine-containing compound, wherein a trigger mechanism is provided by means of which the thermal unit is activated upon actuation of the trigger mechanism, characterized in that the trigger mechanism is configured such that the trigger mechanism or a part thereof penetrates into the thermal unit upon activation.

16. Smokeless cigarette according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the triggering mechanism is arranged inside the cigarette such that it can be activated by applying pressure to one or more outer surfaces of the cigarette.

17. Smokeless cigarette according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the trigger mechanism comprises one or more injection elements, in particular injection pins or needles, which penetrate into the thermal unit upon actuation of the trigger mechanism.

18. Smokeless cigarette according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the thermal unit is partially or completely surrounded by the nicotine-containing reservoir in circumferential direction and/or that the thermal unit comprises a rear side facing the user and a front side facing away from the user, and that the rear side and/or the front side adjoins a tobacco element or is at least partially surrounded by a tobacco element.

19. Smokeless cigarette according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the nicotine reservoir is arranged to be heatable by the thermal unit.

20. Smokeless cigarette according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the thermal unit is present in a space of hollow cylindrical configuration, the nicotine reservoir being arranged inside this space, or one of the thermal unit and the nicotine reservoir being arranged directly or indirectly behind the other in the longitudinal direction of the cigarette.

21. Smokeless cigarette according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the thermal unit is arranged such that the air flow generated by the user can be heated by the thermal unit.

22. Smokeless cigarette according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cigarette comprises a filter which effects a restriction of the air volume flow generated by the user.

23. Smokeless cigarette according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cigarette comprises a jacket surrounding the thermal unit.

24. Smokeless cigarette according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cigarette comprises a closure element, in particular a cap.

25. A method for manufacturing a smokeless cigarette, in particular a smokeless cigarette according to one of the preceding claims, having the following steps:

a heat supply unit;

providing a nicotine reservoir, preferably surrounding the thermal unit;

providing a cigarette holder; and

disposing the mouthpiece, the nicotine reservoir, and the thermal unit in a common outer enclosure.

26. A method for providing a thermal unit for use in the smokeless cigarette of any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the crystallizable medium is heated to a temperature at which it at least partially becomes a solution, after which the thermal unit is filled with the solution.

27. A method as claimed in claim 26 wherein the water of hydration is heated to a temperature at which the salt becomes at least partially a solution in its own crystallisation water.

28. Method according to claim 26 or 27, wherein the medium has a temperature of at least 50 ℃, preferably of at least 60 ℃, before and/or during filling into the container of the self-contained thermal unit.

29. The method according to any one of claims 26 to 28, wherein the medium comprises hydrate and/or water, and wherein setting and/or filling is performed at a water vapor pressure higher than the desorption pressure of the water of the medium.

Technical Field

The invention relates to a smokeless cigarette having a thermal unit for self-heating and a nicotine reservoir containing nicotine or a nicotine-containing compound.

Background

Smokeless cigarettes are known from a number of different embodiments of the prior art.

A smokeless cigarette is known from DE 102005034159 a1, which comprises a heat pipe heated by the flame of a lighter. Because of their high heat capacity, heat pipes release heat for a sufficiently long period to enable the luxury items contained in the reservoir to be evaporated.

From WO 2007/090594 a1 a smokeless cigarette is known which comprises a nicotine reservoir and is characterized in that the airflow through the nicotine reservoir does not have to be heated in order to release nicotine. The nicotine reservoir comprises a carrier substance (carrier swabstance) which is present in its gas phase at ambient temperature.

WO 2007/054157 a1 relates to a smokeless cigarette comprising a heating device provided with a current-carrying heating wire for heating a reservoir from which nicotine is released.

From DE 202006001663U 1 a smokeless cigarette is known which is suitable in terms of visual and geometrical aspects as a commercially available cigarette and which comprises two parts which are connected to one another by means of a suitable connecting technique, preferably by means of a plug method.

DE 102006047146 a1 relates to a smokeless cigarette having a heat accumulator for heating a nicotine-containing insert, wherein the heat accumulator is heated by a burner.

DE 102006004484 a1 discloses a smokeless cigarette, which comprises a heat accumulator for heating a nicotine-containing reservoir, which is heated by a white hot wire.

DE 69012823T 2 relates to a smokeless cigarette containing nicotine-containing particles which can be picked up by the user through a sleeve and placed in the mouth.

From WO 2004/098324 a2 a smokeless cigarette is known which has a reusable part and a non-reusable part, wherein the reusable part comprises a heat source and the non-reusable part comprises a nicotine reservoir and a mouthpiece.

Disclosure of Invention

It is an object of the present invention to provide a smokeless cigarette which is relatively simple in construction and which is capable of providing an efficient heating of the air and/or nicotine reservoir inhaled by the user.

This object is achieved by a smokeless cigarette having the features of the independent claim.

The invention comprises a smokeless cigarette having a self-heating thermal unit and a nicotine reservoir containing nicotine or a nicotine-containing compound, wherein the thermal unit comprises a crystallizable medium that releases heat during crystallization thereof. According to the invention, therefore, the following is provided: heat is released due to crystallization of the medium, which heat is used to heat the nicotine reservoir and facilitate the release of nicotine and/or to heat the air inhaled by the user.

Preferably, the thermal unit is heated to a temperature between 40 ℃ and 70 ℃, preferably to a temperature between 45 ℃ and 55 ℃. This provides sufficient heating of the air and/or nicotine reservoir inhaled by the user without the cigarette itself becoming too hot to be comfortably held and/or without the need for expensive thermal insulation.

Preferably, the thermal unit is continuously heated for a period of 3 to 15 minutes, preferably for a period of 5 to 10 minutes. During this time, the thermal unit is preferably maintained at a temperature between 40 ℃ and 70 ℃, and more preferably between 45 ℃ and 55 ℃.

Further, the crystallizable medium may be a supersaturated metastable solution. When the crystallization process has been initiated, the supersaturated solution can be crystallized by releasing heat.

Preferably, the following are provided: the crystallizable medium, in particular the solution, is present in a metastable supersaturated state at least at ambient temperature, so that crystallization can also begin at room temperature.

The crystallizable medium may comprise a stabilizer to prevent accidental crystallization. However, the medium may also be free of stabilizers.

The crystallizable medium may also include crystallization nuclei. The crystallization nucleus facilitates the start of the crystallization process. Preferably, however, the medium is substantially free of crystalline nuclei. The crystallization process can thus be started, for example, by introducing crystallization nuclei into the medium by means of a triggering mechanism.

Preferably, according to the invention, the following are provided: the crystallizable medium comprises a liquid comprising hydrated water. Preferably, it is a supersaturated solution of the water of hydration.

Alternatively, the crystallizable medium may also comprise a sugar. However, such a thermal unit generates more heat than the saline based heating, so that the cigarette may become overheated.

The water of hydration may be sodium acetate trihydrate and/or mirabilite and/or magnesium nitrate hexahydrate. The settings were as follows: the cigarette comprises a self-contained thermal unit for generating heat and a nicotine reservoir containing nicotine or a nicotine-containing compound. The thermal unit is configured to include a liquid containing sodium acetate trihydrate and/or sulfate and/or mirabilite and/or magnesium nitrate hexahydrate, the liquid being present in the thermal unit in a metastable supersaturated form, and the liquid releasing heat when the sodium acetate trihydrate and/or sulfate, mirabilite and/or magnesium nitrate hexahydrate crystallizes.

Preferably, the smokeless cigarette of the present invention is configured as a one-piece. This means that the user does not need to put together several partial cigarettes, but the cigarette is now ready for use as a complete smokeless cigarette.

Further, the following may be set: the smokeless cigarette is integrally configured as a disposable article. The entire cigarette is therefore thrown away after a single use. In particular, the thermal unit is not reusable. This provides a cheap construction and a simple process.

Preferably, the smokeless cigarette includes an outer enclosure surrounding the nicotine reservoir and the thermal unit.

The cigarette may comprise a mouthpiece, in particular in the form of a filter, wherein the outer enclosure surrounds the nicotine reservoir, the thermal unit and the mouthpiece. The nicotine reservoir, the thermal unit, and the mouthpiece are combined into one unit by the outer package. Preferably, the outer enclosure mechanically connects the mouthpiece with the nicotine reservoir and the thermal unit.

The outer enclosure preferably forms an air duct through which air inhaled by the user flows. Preferably, the air flows from one end of the cigarette through the nicotine reservoir to the other end of the cigarette.

Preferably, the smokeless cigarette comprises an outer packaging member comprising a plurality of layers, an outer layer of the plurality of layers having the visual characteristics of a conventional cigarette, one further layer of the plurality of layers being a desorption barrier configured to prevent or at least substantially limit desorption of nicotine and/or flavoring agents, one further layer of the plurality of layers being a stabilizing layer configured to provide the cigarette with the mechanical stability required for use.

The invention therefore relates to a smokeless cigarette having a multi-layer outer packaging, in which the layers perform different functions. In order to achieve the required shelf life, the multilayer outer packaging is preferably completely or largely free-sealing (desorption-light), i.e.: nicotine and/or flavourant remain in the space enclosed by the outer wrapper even if the smokeless cigarette is stored for an extended period of time.

The outer package may comprise or may also consist of the three layers.

Furthermore, the smokeless cigarette may comprise an outer packaging comprising a plurality of layers, an outer layer of the plurality of layers being made of or comprising paper, one further layer of the plurality of layers being made of or comprising metal, one further layer of the plurality of layers being made of or comprising plastic material.

The paper layer may be a layer having the visual characteristics of a conventional cigarette, the metal layer may be a layer preventing or at least substantially preventing desorption, and the plastic layer may be a layer providing the smokeless cigarette with the required mechanical stability.

The outer paper layer provides the tactile, visual and sensory characteristics of a conventional cigarette. Said metal layer, preferably an aluminium layer, directly or indirectly following the inner layer forms a desorption barrier for nicotine and flavourant. Preferably, it is also used for thermal regulation during the start-up (or activation) phase, i.e. during the use phase of the smokeless cigarette.

The further layer, which is internal with respect to the metal layer, may comprise a plastic layer. On the one hand, it provides the necessary overall stability as well as the preferred flame regulation and taste stability.

The overall structure, i.e., the multi-layer outer package, can be fabricated as a single layer, or can also be fabricated as a composite material.

In a further aspect of the invention, the following may be provided: the desorption barrier is arranged between the outer layer and the stabilization layer, or a layer made of or comprising metal is arranged between the outermost layer and a layer made of or comprising a plastic material. In this case, the desorption barrier forms an "intermediate layer" arranged between the outer layer and the inner layer.

The layers in the multi-layer outer package may directly abut each other. However, in theory, the invention also encompasses: one or more further intervening layers are disposed between the respective layers. Preferably, however, the layers in the outer package are directly adjacent to each other. Further, it is preferably, but not necessarily, set as follows: the outer package consists of only these three layers.

As mentioned above, the metal is preferably aluminium. Thus, the desorption barrier is preferably formed by an aluminum layer or at least a layer comprising aluminum.

The desorption barrier may be configured in the form of a foil, preferably a metal foil, particularly preferably an aluminum foil.

In a preferred aspect of the invention, at least one layer (preferably several or all layers) of the outer envelope is configured as a cylinder in the form of a cigarette.

Further, the following may be set: the layers of the outer wrapper all extend the same length or different lengths of the cigarette. For example, it is conceivable to: the smokeless cigarette has a mouthpiece, and the desorption barrier and/or the stabilizing layer extend up to the mouthpiece, the outer layer also extending around the mouthpiece. It is conceivable that the outer layer surrounding the mouthpiece has the same colour as a conventional cigarette in the region of the filter. Preferably, the mouthpiece is arranged such that the user picks up the nicotine and/or the flavourant through the mouthpiece using circulation of heated air. Thus, for example, it is conceivable that a space is adjacent to the mouthpiece, in which space the nicotine reservoir and/or the reservoir for flavoring agent and/or the self-contained thermal unit is arranged.

In a further aspect of the invention, the following may be provided: the thicknesses of the layers in the outer packaging part are the same.

However, the present invention also includes: one layer has a smaller thickness than two other layers or one layer has a larger thickness than two other layers.

For example, it is conceivable that the desorption barrier, which may be configured as a foil, has a smaller thickness than at least one or both of the two further layers.

Further, the following may be set: the stabilizing layer has a greater thickness than at least one or both of the other layers.

As described, the following arrangement is preferable: the outer enclosure surrounds a space in which the thermal unit and/or the nicotine reservoir is arranged.

In a further aspect of the invention, the following is provided: the multi-layer outer package has been manufactured in the form of a composite material, or the layers in the outer package are manufactured separately and may then be joined together using a connecting means.

In a further aspect of the invention, the following is provided: the cigarette also includes a user-actuated trigger mechanism that initiates crystallization. The following settings may be made: the crystallization starts from a mechanical operation.

The smokeless cigarette according to the invention further comprises a trigger mechanism, by actuating which the thermal unit is activated. Preferably, the following are provided: the trigger mechanism is configured to be capable of being triggered by application of a compressive force.

The starting of the smokeless cigarette can thus be very simple, since the user exerts a compressive force which causes the thermal unit to be started, i.e. the crystallization process is started and the thermal unit releases heat.

It is conceivable that the trigger mechanism is formed by a small piece, preferably a metal piece, which extends into the solution. The initiation or start of crystallization is achieved due to the actuation or movement of the tab or clip. As the crystallization process continuously releases heat for a certain time, the heat is used to heat the nicotine reservoir and/or to heat the air inhaled by the user as described.

However, it is preferably set as follows: the trigger mechanism is configured to penetrate the thermal unit upon activation.

Thus, for example, it is conceivable to provide an injection pin or the like which penetrates into the thermal unit upon actuation of the trigger structure. By the term "penetrate" it is understood that the trigger mechanism or a part thereof opens the envelope of the thermal unit, i.e. penetrates the thermal unit, or in the absence of such opening it merely presses against the thermal unit. This penetration can be used to start crystallization in the thermal unit, thereby releasing heat. This heat may be used, for example, to heat the airflow inhaled by the user and/or to accelerate the release of nicotine from the reservoir.

Preferably, the penetration is achieved by applying a compressive force.

A particularly compact arrangement is obtained when the trigger mechanism is arranged inside the cigarette and can be activated by pressing one or more outer surfaces of the cigarette. It is envisaged that the activation is effected by finger pressure acting on the exterior of the cigarette.

In a further aspect of the invention, the following is provided: the trigger mechanism comprises one or more injection elements, in particular injection pins or needles, which penetrate the thermal unit upon actuation of the trigger mechanism. If there are multiple injection elements, the following can be set: the plurality of injection elements are spaced apart from one another in a circumferential direction of the cigarette. It is for example conceivable to arrange the injection elements on two opposite sides of the thermal unit. It is also possible to provide three or four injection elements which are separated from each other by an angle of 125 deg. or 90 deg. respectively in the circumferential direction. Of course, it is also conceivable to provide only one or more than four injection elements.

It is envisaged that the one or more injection elements are arranged on at least one spring. The spring may for example be a leaf spring.

The spring may serve as a guide for the injection element(s).

The spring may be disposed on the thermal unit.

In a further aspect of the invention, a fixation element is provided with which the position of the injection element(s) can be determined. With the fixing element, the position of the injection element can thus be adjusted.

The injection element(s) may be arranged on the fixation element or also on the spring as described above.

For example, the fixing element may be a fixing ring.

In a preferred aspect of the present invention, the following is provided: the fixation element surrounds the injection element(s) and/or the at least one spring.

In a further aspect of the invention, the following is provided: the fixation element is deformable. It is envisaged that the user causes the injection member(s) to be pressed into the thermal unit by applying a compressive force on the deformable fixing member.

According to the present invention, the following can be set: crystallization is initiated as a result of the injection element penetrating into the thermal unit. It is conceivable that the injection elements contain crystallization nuclei which are released upon penetration into the thermal unit.

In a further aspect of the invention, the following is provided: the thermal unit is partially or completely surrounded by the nicotine-containing reservoir in a circumferential direction. The thermal unit is thus arranged inside the smokeless cigarette and is partially or completely surrounded by the nicotine reservoir.

Further, the following may be set: the thermal unit comprises a rear side facing the user and a front side facing away from the user, and the rear side and/or the front side abuts the tobacco element or is at least partially surrounded by the tobacco element.

In an alternative aspect of the invention, the following is provided: the thermal unit is present in a hollow cylindrical space inside which the nicotine reservoir is arranged. As a further alternative, the following may be provided: one of the thermal unit and the nicotine reservoir is arranged directly or indirectly behind the other in the longitudinal direction of the cigarette.

The nicotine reservoir may be in the form of a substrate on the surface of which the nicotine or the nicotine-containing compound is disposed, or the nicotine reservoir may be in the form of a substrate comprising the nicotine or the nicotine-containing compound. It is envisaged that the substrate is tobacco, and in particular tobacco enriched in nicotine or nicotine compounds.

Preferably, the nicotine reservoir is arranged to be heatable by the thermal unit. Heating the nicotine reservoir may lead to the fact that: the nicotine is more easily evaporated or desorbed from or separated from the substrate and is accordingly more easily introduced into the air stream generated by the user.

As noted above, an embodiment of the invention may alternatively or additionally comprise: the user-generated air flow may be heated by the thermal unit. This results in a more comfortable feel compared to the flow of cold air inhaled by the user.

The cigarette may include a filter for substantially restricting the flow of air through the cigarette. Alternatively or additionally, the following may be provided: the filter is used to retain substances that should not enter the air inhaled by the user.

The cigarette may include a jacket surrounding the thermal unit. This aspect of the invention includes the following advantages: the user does not directly touch the thermal unit but the sheath, which preferably has a thermal insulation effect so that its temperature is lower than that of the thermal unit.

The invention also relates to a smokeless cigarette having a self-contained thermal unit for generating heat and having a nicotine reservoir containing nicotine or a nicotine-containing compound, wherein the thermal unit is configured to at least partially surround the nicotine reservoir. It is therefore envisaged that the thermal unit is located closer to the exterior of the cigarette than the nicotine reservoir. Thus, where the cigarette is preferably configured to have a circular cross-section, the following may be provided: the thermal unit is arranged in an area located further to the outside in a radial direction than the nicotine reservoir.

On the other hand, the following may be set: the nicotine reservoir is positioned closer to an exterior of the cigarette than the thermal unit. Thus, where the cigarette is preferably configured to have a circular cross-section, the following may be provided: the thermal unit is arranged in an area located further into the interior than the nicotine reservoir in a radial direction. In particular, the nicotine reservoir may have a form taking the form of a hollow cylinder, the thermal unit being arranged inside the hollow cylinder.

The cigarette may comprise a closure element, in particular a cap or the like. Preferably, the closure element closes an end of the cigarette which is spaced from an end portion provided in the mouth during use. It is thus conceivable for one end of the cigarette to be formed by the mouthpiece or the part of the cigarette disposed in the mouth and for the other end to be closed by the cap. The closure may be airtight.

The invention also includes a method of making a smokeless cigarette having the steps of: a heat supply unit; providing a nicotine reservoir, preferably surrounding the thermal unit; providing a cigarette holder; and arranging the mouthpiece, the nicotine reservoir and the thermal unit in a common outer enclosure. In this way, a ready-to-use smokeless cigarette is provided. Preferably, the cigarette is manufactured as described above.

The invention also comprises a method for providing a thermal unit for use in the smokeless cigarette described above, which method is characterized in that the crystallizable medium is heated to a temperature at which it becomes at least partially a solution, and the thermal unit is then filled with the solution.

Preferably, the water of hydration is heated to a temperature at which the salt becomes a solution at least partially in its own water of crystallization.

The invention therefore comprises a method of filling a container or chamber (receptacle) of a self-contained thermal unit for use in a smokeless cigarette. The following may be set: the medium is maintained or treated at a temperature of at least 50 ℃, preferably at least 60 ℃, before and/or during filling into the container of the self-contained thermal unit.

It has been found that spontaneous crystallization and doping with crystallization nuclei can be effectively prevented when the medium, in particular sodium acetate or sodium acetate solution, is kept and/or treated at a temperature above 50 c, preferably above 60 c. According to the invention, a step is provided in this temperature range, whereby the crystallizable medium can be reliably filled into the containers of the self-contained thermal unit without spontaneous crystallization and without doping with crystallization nuclei. This leads to a high reliability of the smokeless cigarette provided with the self-contained thermal unit, since crystallization and heat generation do not occur permanently, but rather at the time of the user's wish.

As noted, the medium may be an acetate or a solution containing acetate. However, the invention is not limited to this medium but also encompasses other crystallizable media, in particular salts, preferably water of hydration, such as sodium acetate hydrate or magnesium nitrate hexahydrate.

In one aspect of the invention, the medium is filled into a container having an internal diameter in the range of from 2mm to 7mm, preferably in the range of from 3mm to 6mm, more preferably not more than 6 mm.

The container can, for example, have a length in the range from 70mm to 110mm, preferably in the range from 80mm to 100mm, particularly preferably not more than 100 mm.

These are exemplary values that do not limit the invention.

The container may, for example, be configured in the form of a tube, the cross-section of which is circular or angular. The tube is closed when filled with said medium.

The initiation, i.e. the start of the crystallization process, is preferably achieved by the user of the smokeless cigarette exerting pressure on the outside of the container.

In a further aspect of the invention, the following is provided: the medium contains hydrate and/or water, and the setting and/or filling is performed at a water vapor pressure higher than a desorption pressure of water of the medium. In this way, dehydration of the aqueous salt solution or of the medium during the setting and/or during the filling process can be prevented. This dehydration may involve the following disadvantages: which causes an increased likelihood of crystallization. The setting and/or filling process is therefore preferably carried out at a water vapor pressure which is higher than the water vapor pressure of the aqueous salt solution or of the water in the medium.

It is conceivable to fill the medium from the storage container through the filling cannula into the container of the self-contained thermal unit. The following may be set: the filling cannula is also heated and it is ensured that the filling cannula and/or the capsule itself are also kept at a relatively high temperature within the above-mentioned range, in order to prevent accidental crystallization of the medium and accidental doping of the medium with crystallization nuclei.

It is conceivable that, prior to filling, the medium is accommodated in a storage container directly or indirectly by means of the cannula or other supply device and is transported from the storage container into the container of the self-contained thermal unit by means of a filling mechanism, preferably a hydraulically operated filling mechanism.

The invention also relates to a smokeless cigarette having one or more self-contained thermal units filled by the method.

The invention also includes a method for filling a smokeless cigarette having a thermal unit according to the invention. The following may be set: the sodium acetate trihydrate and/or sodium sulfate and/or mirabilite and/or magnesium nitrate hexahydrate is heated to a temperature at which the salt at least partially becomes a solution which is then filled into the space of the cigarette provided for housing the thermal unit.

Preferably, the following may be set: the sodium acetate trihydrate and/or sodium sulfate and/or mirabilite and/or magnesium nitrate hexahydrate is heated to a temperature at which the salt becomes a solution at least partially in its own crystallization water.

Drawings

Further details and advantages of the invention will be explained in detail with reference to embodiments illustrated in the drawings.

Figure 1 shows a longitudinal section through a first embodiment of a smokeless cigarette according to the invention;

FIG. 2 shows an enlarged section of the trigger mechanism shown in FIG. 1;

figure 3 shows a longitudinal section through a second embodiment of a smokeless cigarette according to the invention;

figure 4 shows a longitudinal section through a third embodiment of a smokeless cigarette according to the invention;

figure 5 shows a longitudinal section through a fourth embodiment of a smokeless cigarette according to the invention;

FIG. 6 shows a cross-sectional view of a three layer overwrap component of a smokeless cigarette according to the present invention; and

fig. 7 shows a schematic diagram of a filling operation of a thermal unit.

Detailed Description

The smokeless cigarette according to the invention should supply nicotine instead of toxic and carcinogenic substances to the smoker. The smokeless cigarette 10 includes a self-contained thermal unit 14 or 40, a nicotine-containing substrate 15 or 50, and a mouthpiece 20.

The smokeless cigarette 10 according to the invention operates without external supply of heat or energy and is thus self-contained. The smokeless cigarette of the present invention is configured to be immediately operable when desired by a user. In particular, it is a disposable cigarette, which can be used only once and then thrown away.

The liquid to be crystallized is contained inside the thermal unit, which liquid is able to release heat during crystallization. The crystallization process is initiated by the actuation of a trigger mechanism, wherein the entire unit is heated to about 45 to 55 ℃ and the heat is released continuously for about 5 to 10 minutes. These values are exemplary values. The temperature and time period during which heat is released can be adjusted, for example, via the amount of salt to be crystallized.

Preferably, the thermal unit is sized such that it releases heat for at least 1 minute, preferably in the range of 2 to 4 minutes.

When the user draws air through the mouthpiece 20, a flow of air is directed through the tobacco 15, 50, thereby being heated over an effective length due to the heat generated by the thermal unit 14, 40. The air stream absorbs the evaporated nicotine and flavourant and is conveyed through the mouthpiece 20 which may also act as a filter. The mouthpiece 20 restricts the airflow and is sized such that the maximum nicotine limit is not reached or exceeded.

The smokeless cigarette 10 according to the invention operates without external supply of heat or energy and is thus self-contained. After the hot cell is started, crystallization of the supersaturated metastable solution begins. For example, it may be liquid sodium acetate trihydrate (CH)₃COONa 3 H₂O) solution. The heat of crystallization released during the exothermic reaction is released in a number of steps.

After start-up, sodium acetate trihydrate spontaneously crystallizes and releases in latent thermal form (CH)₃COO^-(aq.)+ Na⁺(aq.) → CH₃COONa 3 H₂O (solid) heating) the heat stored in the cell, wherein the ions present in the cell initially form an ion lattice.

Simultaneously with this process, water molecules occupy positions defined in the interstices of the ion lattice formed in this manner, and their dipoles are precisely aligned. In this way, water molecules form a crystal lattice in the crystal lattice.

In the case of sodium acetate trihydrate, three water molecules are arranged in the unit formula.

The heat released during crystallization therefore consists on the one hand of the latent heat of the salt, i.e. of the heat of its solution or of the heat of crystallization. On the other hand, heat is generated during the strongly exothermic formation of the crystal lattice of water molecules, which takes place simultaneously therewith. The heat of hydration is similarly latent heat.

Alternatively or additionally to the use of sodium acetate trihydrate, sodium sulfate or the so-called mirabilite, decahydrate (Na)₂SO₄ 10 H₂O) may be used. Alternatively or additionallyAlternatively, it is also possible to consider the use of, for example, magnesium nitrate hexahydrate (Mg (NO)₃)₂6 H₂O) or with lithium nitrate (LiNO)₃) A mixture of (a).

The mouthpiece 20 ensures constant flow within the cigarette.

Fig. 1 shows a first embodiment of the present invention. The cigarette 10 includes an outer enclosure 22, which may have a design corresponding to a conventional cigarette. The outer enclosure 22 and the cigarette 10 are preferably cylindrical in shape. The outer enclosure may be configured as will be described in detail with reference to fig. 6.

The cigarette 10 comprises a filter 20 at its end facing the user, with which filter 20 the volume of air inhaled per unit time can be limited or maintained at a constant value.

A piece of tobacco 30 is provided adjacent to the filter 20, an end region of the thermal unit 40 facing the user being arranged in this piece of tobacco 30. The thermal unit 40 is located inside the cigarette 10 and is completely surrounded in the circumferential direction by nicotine-rich tobacco 50. The tobacco fill 50 is disposed in an annular space surrounding the thermal unit 40.

A further piece of tobacco 60 is provided adjacent the nicotine-rich tobacco substrate 50, the further piece of tobacco 60 forming the end of the cigarette 10 remote from the user.

The smokeless cigarette 10 further comprises a jacket, which consists for example of a plastic film, around the thermal unit 40 on its outside.

The trigger mechanism of the first embodiment, also shown in detail in fig. 2, will now be described. In the area of the thermal unit 40 away from the user, one or more resilient guides 70 are secured to the thermal unit 40.

The spring 70 has an inclined portion that extends at an acute angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the thermal unit 40 and an abutment portion that extends parallel to the longitudinal axis of the thermal unit 40 or cigarette 10.

In one region, the spring 70 is surrounded by a deformable retaining ring 80.

One or more injection pins 90 extending perpendicular to thermal unit 40 are disposed on fixed ring 80 or spring(s) 70.

If injection pin(s) 90 are arranged on spring 70, it is preferred that spring 70 extends parallel to the longitudinal axis of thermal unit 40 in this region.

Although the spring 70 exerts a force directed away from the thermal unit 40, it is possible to provide: the fixed ring 80 has the function of positioning the spring 70 and the infusion pin 90 so that they are on the surface of the thermal unit 40 or have only a small distance from this surface in the case of non-actuation, but they only penetrate into the thermal unit 40 when a compressive force is applied to the fixed ring 80 or the infusion pin 90 from the outside.

As can be seen in fig. 2, the injection pins 90 have tips with which they penetrate the thermal unit 40 when the trigger mechanism is actuated.

As a result of the penetration of the injection pin(s) 90, a phase change (in particular crystallization) can be initiated, in which change heat is released. It is contemplated that the change in state is caused by threading injection pin 90 into thermal unit 40, or that injection pin 90 includes a means to facilitate the change in phase, such as a crystallization nucleus, for example.

The arrangement of the cigarette according to the invention comprises a relatively simple construction and an easily actuatable triggering mechanism. In addition, the arrangement structure can be manufactured in a small size, so that miniaturization is possible.

Figure 3 now shows a second embodiment of the arrangement of nicotine reservoir and thermal unit and triggering mechanism different from the first embodiment. The media used in the thermal unit is configured exactly as described above.

In a second embodiment, a somewhat nicotine-rich conventional tobacco is provided in a cylindrical inner space 15, which is surrounded by a hollow cylindrical arrangement or configuration of thermal units 14. The mouthpiece 20 provides a constant circulation of air within the system. Via a triggering mechanism, which is not shown in detail in fig. 3, crystallization is initiated, whereby the process of releasing heat is initiated. The start of the crystallization process is for example achieved by a metal clamp that is extended into the solution, which is mechanically actuated, and the crystallization is started and accelerated by the metal clamp.

The smokeless cigarette 10 also includes a jacket 12 around the thermal unit 14 on the exterior thereof. The sheath comprises a double-sheathed plastic film capable of storing a hot crystallization liquid or inside which a liquid to be crystallized is contained. According to the embodiment shown in the figures, the sheath 12 only surrounds the thermal unit and not the mouthpiece. In principle, however, it is also conceivable to provide the sheath 12 also over the entire length of the smokeless cigarette and over the mouthpiece 20.

The sheath 12 of the cigarette serves on the one hand to prevent direct contact with a heat source in the form of a heat unit 14 and/or is designed such that it is visually similar to a conventional cigarette. The sheath 12 may be configured as will be described below with reference to fig. 6.

In contrast to the embodiment shown in fig. 3, it is provided according to fig. 4 that the end of the cigarette 10 spaced apart from the mouthpiece 20 is closed by a cap 25. Prior to use, the user separates the cap 25 from the cigarette 10 or tears the cap 25 off the cigarette 10, which results in air being able to be drawn through the cigarette 10 or through the nicotine-containing substrate 15.

In addition to the embodiments shown in fig. 1 to 4, it is also conceivable to change the arrangement of the thermal unit and the nicotine-containing substrate. For example, it is conceivable to arrange one of the thermal unit and the nicotine-containing substrate behind the other in the longitudinal direction of the cigarette. For example, it is contemplated that the thermal unit is disposed at an end of the cigarette that is spaced apart from the mouthpiece 20, and the nicotine-containing substrate is disposed between the thermal unit and the mouthpiece.

This arrangement of cigarettes can be seen in figure 5. A nicotine-containing substrate 15 is disposed between the thermal unit 14 and the mouthpiece 20. In the embodiment of fig. 5, thermal unit 14 is also enclosed by cap 25, cap 25 preventing air from entering base plate 15 until cap 25 is removed by the user.

Fig. 5 also shows that the thermal units 14 alternate with air ducts 16. Which extends in the longitudinal direction of the cigarette 10. The feature that one or more air ducts 16 are arranged in the thermal unit 14 in order to increase or only provide the air supply is not limited to the embodiment shown in fig. 5, but is a theoretically possible aspect of the invention.

It is envisaged that the sheath of the cigarette is made airtight. However, it is also conceivable to make the jacket permeable to air, which allows oxygen to also (or only) penetrate the thermal unit 14 or the substrate 15 via the jacket surface. To prevent this from occurring before the user wishes, it may be provided: the sheath is encapsulated with a preferably air tight seal (which can be removed by the user).

Figure 6 shows a longitudinal cross-section of an embodiment of a three layer outer packaging member of a smokeless cigarette. In particular, such an outer package may be used in one of the above embodiments.

As shown, the outer package includes three layers of material. The outer paper layer 1 provides the tactile, visual and sensory characteristics of a conventional cigarette.

The paper layer 1 is inwardly adjoined by an aluminum layer 2, the aluminum layer 2 forming a desorption barrier for nicotine and flavourant/aroma present in the space surrounded by the outer envelope.

The aluminium layer also provides thermal regulation during the use phase of the smokeless cigarette, i.e. during the heating by the self-contained thermal unit.

The aluminium layer 2 adjoins the plastic layer 3 inwards. The plastic layer 3 comprises a plastic sheet, which on the one hand provides the overall stability, jet regulation and taste stability required for smokeless cigarettes.

As can be seen from fig. 6, three layers may thus be provided to form the entire outer package.

However, the present invention may also include: an intervening layer is provided between two or all of the layers shown, which intervening layer has certain functional properties, such as an increase in the adhesion of the layers to one another, and the like.

Preferably, however, the outer package consists of only the three layers shown. The essential advantages of the arrangement shown are: the smokeless cigarettes provided can be stored for extended periods of time because desorption of nicotine or flavoring is largely prevented or completely prevented, but without removing the familiar feel of conventional cigarettes.

The paper layer may form the outermost layer of the multi-layer outer package. However, in theory, the invention also includes: an additional layer (e.g., a coating, etc.) is applied over the layer. Similarly, the inner layer, i.e. the plastic layer 3, may form the innermost layer of the multi-layer outer package. However, the present invention also includes: an additional layer (e.g., an inner coating) is adjacent to the inner layer.

In the figures, the three layers 1, 2, 3 of the outer package are shown to have the same or substantially the same thickness. However, the present invention also includes the following cases: different thicknesses may be provided. For example, it may be sufficient to provide the desorption barrier in the form of a relatively thin aluminum foil, which may represent the thinnest of the three shown layers.

The outer enclosure shown in fig. 6 has the shape of a hollow cylindrical body in longitudinal cross-section, inside which a matrix is arranged, on which matrix nicotine and flavourant are provided. Internally, the self-contained thermal unit is also provided in the form of a crystallizable medium. The self-contained thermal unit may be activated by a user externally applying pressure to the illustrated outer enclosure. This leads to crystallization and thus to the release of heat. On the one hand, the air flow inhaled through the interior of the smokeless cigarette and possibly the mouthpiece is heated by this released heat. The heating also results in favour of desorption of nicotine and/or flavourant from the matrix.

The manufacture of the thermal unit will now be described in detail. To fill the thermal cell with a supersaturated metastable solution, the salt is first heated. First, the crystal water lattice disappears. At the same time, the ion lattice is also destroyed. This process occurs when the salt is heated to a temperature of about 58 ℃.

The process is a dissolution process.

In the case of sodium acetate trihydrate, the process occurs at a temperature of about 58 ℃. Initially, anhydrous sodium acetate was obtained. If heating is continued, the sodium acetate obtained is at least partially dissolved in its own crystallization water. A corresponding process occurs when mirabilite, sodium sulfate decahydrate, is used, and when magnesium nitrate hexahydrate, which may be present in combination with lithium nitrate, is used.

A method of manufacturing the thermal unit will now be described in detail with reference to fig. 7. Fig. 7 shows in schematic form a heat cushion tube 100 which is closed when filled with a crystallizable medium and then serves as a self-contained thermal unit for a smokeless cigarette.

As shown, the thermal liner tube, which may have a maximum diameter of 6mm and a maximum overall length of 100mm, is filled with a fill cannula 120, which fill cannula 120 is in turn connected to a storage container 130. The reservoir 130 is connected to a filling hydraulic portion, not shown, which has a function of filling the crystallizable medium into the interior of the heat-packing tube 100 through the filling cannula 120.

As indicated by the double arrow in the figure, the storage container 130 or the filling cannula 120 can be moved in its axial direction relative to the heat cushion tube 100, so that for example the left half of the tube 100 as shown in the figure, and thus the area adjoining it, is filled in the opening direction of the heat cushion tube 100.

In this detailed embodiment, the ready-to-use sodium acetate in liquid condition should be treated and filled.

Sodium acetate is introduced into the pre-fabricated one-way closed heat-cushion tube 100 using one or more cannulae 120, and the tube 100 is then closed. As mentioned above, to prevent accidental spontaneous crystallization and accidental doping with crystallization nuclei, sodium acetate is maintained and treated at a temperature above 60 ℃ in the storage container 130 and possibly also in the filling cannula 120. This process prevents spontaneous crystallization and doping with crystalline nuclei.

To prevent variation in the water content of the sodium acetate solution, the water vapor pressure of the aqueous saline solution in the storage container 130 or the filling cannula 120 is adjusted to a value higher than the desorption pressure of water in the aqueous saline solution.

In theory, the temperature conditions and the water vapor pressure in the storage vessel 130 and/or the fill cannula 120 and/or the heat-cushioned tube 100 itself can be adjusted as described above. In this way, the occurrence of undesired early crystallization can be reliably prevented.

The sodium acetate thermal pad according to the embodiments described herein is immediately available for use at the time of filling. Due to the filling operation as described above, the additional handling of the heat cushion tube 100 or the heat cushion is not problematic, and they or the smokeless cigarettes provided with them, for example, can also be stored for extended periods without accidental crystallization of sodium acetate occurring.

The invention relates not only to cigarettes in the actual sense but also to cigars. Thus, the term "cigarette" stands for cigarette and cigar.