ELECTRONIC CIGARETTE FILLER AND ELECTRONIC CIGARETTE CARTRIDGE

Abstract

 The purpose of the present invention is to provide an electronic cigarette cartridge suitable for electronic cigarettes. The electronic cigarette cartridge includes an aerosol-forming substrate having a filler enclosed by a wrapping member on one end and a mouthpiece on the other end. The filler is a sheet-like member having an aerosol former. The sheet-like member is filled so as to form an air passage in the longitudinal direction of the electronic cigarette cartridge. The sheet-like member has cuts along the longitudinal direction of the electronic cigarette cartridge.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an electronic cigarette filler and an electronic cigarette cartridge.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, in order to meet a trend toward smoking cessation, electronic cigarette products are beginning to be widely used to enjoy a cigarette by inhaling the vapor of tobacco components generated by heating a cartridge that contains the tobacco components without using fire. There is disclosed a cigarette filler to be filled in such an electronic cigarette cartridge, which is formed by crimping and assembling sheets having an aerosol former (Patent Document 1). There is also disclosed a smoking article having a cylindrical body that contains a folded sheet (Patent Document 2). Further, there is a known invention of a rod for use in smoking articles, which includes a gathered sheet of homogenized tobacco material (see, for example, Patent Document 3). The rod for smoking articles described in Patent Document 3 is obtained by crimping a continuous sheet of homogenized tobacco material, gathering it, and then wrapping it with a wrapper to form a continuous rod. The continuous rod is cut into a plurality of individual rods. The rod for smoking articles described in Patent Document 3 has a more uniform density than a rod that contains fine pieces of homogenized tobacco material.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003] 

Patent Document 1: Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2017-524368

Patent Document 2: International Publication No. WO 2010/113702

Patent Document 3: Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2014-515274

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] An object of the present invention is to provide a high-quality electronic cigarette filler and an electronic cigarette cartridge suitable for electronic cigarettes, capable of preventing the filler from falling off and making the air flow uniform during use, thereby maintaining a stable inhale quality.

Means of Solving the Problems

[0005] In order to achieve the object, the present invention provides an electronic cigarette filler that includes a sheet-like member, wherein, assuming that the longitudinal direction of an electronic cigarette is represented as first direction, and an in-plane direction perpendicular thereto is represented as second direction, a cut is made in the sheet-like member along the first direction.

[0006] According to a preferred embodiment, the cut is made to a depth that does not penetrate the sheet member.

[0007] According to a preferred embodiment, the sheet-like member is rectangular as a whole and has a plurality of said cuts in one side thereof.

[0008] According to a preferred embodiment, the cuts include first cuts that are made along the first direction from one side of the sheet-like member extending in the second direction.

[0009] According to a preferred embodiment, the cuts include second cuts that are made along the first direction from the other side of the sheet-like member, wherein the first cuts and the second cuts are arranged alternately in the second direction.

[0010] According to a preferred embodiment, the cut is arranged such that the length of the first direction component thereof is longer than the length of the second direction component.

[0011] According to a preferred embodiment, the electronic cigarette filler is fixed to the inside of a wrapping member.

[0012] According to a further preferred embodiment, the electronic cigarette filler is filled so as to form an air passage in the first direction.

[0013] According to another preferred embodiment, the sheet-like member is folded or rolled to form the air passage.

[0014] According to another preferred embodiment, the area of the end shape of the filler viewed from one end is substantially uniform.

[0015] According to another preferred embodiment, the area of the end shape of the filler viewed from one end increases from the center to the periphery.

[0016] According to a further preferred embodiment, cuts are provided at a predetermined interval in the second direction, the sheet-like member is continuous in the entire area thereof by a non-cut portion, and, and when the sheet-like member is used for an aerosol-forming substrate, the cuts are provided on one end side and the other end side of the aerosol-forming substrate.

[0017] In order to achieve the object mentioned above, according to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided an electronic cigarette cartridge that includes the electronic cigarette filler according to any one of the above embodiments.

Effects of the Invention

[0018] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a high-quality electronic cigarette filler, and a filler and an electronic cigarette cartridge suitable for electronic cigarettes. Specifically, the filler can be prevented from falling off, and the cut portion forms a uniform passage of the air which guides the airflow direction while the electronic cigarette cartridge is being used, resulting in stable inhale quality.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0019] 

[Fig. 1] Fig. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example for how an electronic cigarette cartridge is used.

[Fig. 2] Fig. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the structure of the electronic cigarette cartridge.

[Fig. 3] Fig. 3 is a diagram illustrating the filler of an aerosol-forming sub strate.

[Fig. 4] Fig. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example for how a sheet is filled.

[Fig. 5] Fig. 5 is a schematic flowchart illustrating a manufacturing method of an electronic cigarette filler and the like according to an embodiment.

[Fig. 6-1] Fig. 6A is a schematic perspective view illustrating a part of a sheet of non-tobacco plant composition with cuts made in the thickness direction, Fig. 6B is a schematic plan view illustrating a sheet of non-tobacco plant composition with cuts made in the thickness direction.

[Fig. 6-2] Fig. 6C is a schematic plan view illustrating an electronic cigarette filler according to an embodiment, Figs. 6D and 6E are schematic plan views each illustrating an electronic cigarette filler according to a modification.

[Fig. 6-3] Figs. 6F to 6H are schematic plan views each illustrating an electronic cigarette filler according to a modification.

[Fig. 6-4] Figs. 6I to 6J are schematic plan views each illustrating an electronic cigarette filler according to a modification.

[Fig. 7] Fig. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example for how to create the electronic cigarette cartridge.

[Fig. 8] Fig. 8 is a diagram for explaining modifications of the electronic cigarette cartridge.

[Fig. 9] Fig. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of a sheet in which a cut is made.

[Fig. 10] Fig. 10 is a diagram for explaining the center to the periphery of the aerosol-forming substrate.

[Fig. 11] Fig. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example in which a cut is made in the diameter direction from one end side.

[Fig. 12] Fig. 12 is a diagram illustrating an example in which a cut is made from one end side to be substantially perpendicular to the ridgeline of a folded sheet.

[Fig. 13] Fig. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of a sheet in which cuts are made.

[Fig. 14] Fig. 14 is a diagram illustrating an example of cutting of a sheet in which cuts are made.

[Fig. 15] Fig. 15 is a schematic diagram illustrating an aerosol-forming substrate manufacturing apparatus.

Modes for Carrying Out the Invention

[0020] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the invention is not limited to the following embodiments. Note that like elements are designated by like characters throughout the specification and drawings, and the same description may not be repeated. In addition, the dimensional ratios in the drawings are given only by way of example and without any limitation, and the illustration may be partly exaggerated for convenience of explanation.

[0021] Described below is an example of how to create a sheet-like filler used in this embodiment. Examples of materials for an aerosol-forming material include an aerosol former, a support for supporting the aerosol former, and a flavor additive used as necessary.

[0022] As the support for supporting the aerosol former, various parts of tobacco plants or non-tobacco plants (for example, root, stem, leaf, flower, fruit, skin, seed, tree trunk, tree branch, etc.) may be used. Preferably, it is used in a dried and ground condition or the like.

[0023] Besides the plant parts as described above, examples of a binder or the support for supporting the aerosol former further include: gums such as guar gum, xanthan gum, gum arabic, and locust bean gum; cellulose binders such as hydroxypropylcellulose, carboxymethylcellulose, hydroxyethylcellulose, methylcellulose, and ethyl cellulose; polysaccharides such as glucomannan, starch, organic acids such as alginic acid, sodium alginate, conjugate base of organic acids such as agar and pectin; and combinations thereof.

[0024] As the aerosol former, glycerin, propylene glycol, sorbitol, triethylene glycol, lactic acid, diacetin (glycerin diacetate), triacetin (glycerin triacetate), triethylene glycol diacetate, triethyl citrate, isopropyl myristate, stearic acid methyl, dimethyl dodecanedioate, dimethyl tetradecansandionate, and the like can be used. Preferably, glycerin and propylene glycol are used. These are used preferably in an amount of 1 wt% to 80 wt%, and further preferably in an amount of 10 wt% to 40 wt%, with respect to the electronic cigarette filler.

[0025] In addition to the above aerosol former support and the aerosol former, a flavor additive that adds flavor as necessary may also be preferably used. Examples of the flavor additive include: mint, cocoa, coffee, tea extract, and the like.

[0026] When an aerosol-forming material is produced using the above materials, various additives such as water, ethyl alcohol, thickener, and the like may be added in addition to the above materials.

[0027] When formed as a sheet, the filler may be obtained by, for example, creating a sheet that contains tobacco materials as described above and adding an aerosol former to the created sheet, or mixing an aerosol former, cellulose fibers, and tobacco powder into a slurry and forming it into a sheet.

[0028] A sheet used in this embodiment is prepared as follows: cellulose fibers, a binder, black tea leaves, an aerosol former, and a flavor additive are mixed into a slurry, and the slurry is casted on a metal plate and dried. The thickness is set to 0.2 mm. According to the present invention, preferably, the sheet has a thickness in the range of 0.1 mm to 0.5 mm.

[0029] Described below are some examples of methods for producing an aerosol-forming substrate used in the embodiment, which includes a sheet-like member having cuts as a filler.

[0030] For example, as one method, a sheet having predetermined cuts is processed into a desired shape to obtain a sheet-like member having cuts, and the sheet-like member is filled as a filler in a wrapping member (151) or the like as illustrated in Figs. 3, 4, and 12. As another method, as illustrated in Figs. 2 and 5, a prepared sheet is processed into a desired shape, then cuts are made therein to obtain a sheet-like member having cuts, and the sheet-like member is filled as a filler in the wrapping member (151) or the like. As a further possible method, for example, a prepared sheet is processed into a desired shape and made into a form to be filled, then cuts are made therein, and it is filled in a wrapping sheet (150) or the like as a sheet-like filler having cuts. Further, as an example of a possible method, after a prepared sheet is processed into a desired shape and filled as a filler in the wrapping sheet (150) or the like, cuts are made to obtain a sheet-like filler having cuts.

[0031] Incidentally, the sheet has cuts but is still in one piece because of its non-cut portion.

[0032] As a preferable production method, the above-mentioned steps of preparing a sheet, making cuts, processing the sheet into a desired shape, and filling the sheet are performed continuously. It is also preferable to perform two or more steps concurrently. Such way of performing the steps improves the production efficiency.

[0033] Examples of tools used to make cuts include: cutter blades, razor blades, rotary cutters, and the like. In one preferred embodiment, they are arranged in parallel to make a necessary number of cuts all together.

[0034] Preferably, the cuts are made at an interval W (illustrated in Figs. 9, 13, and 14) larger than the thickness of the sheet. The interval W is preferably in the range from, for example, 0.5 mm to 10 mm. More preferably, if the interval W is 1 mm or more, portions divided by cuts are stable without coming apart, and if it is 5 mm or less, at the time of insertion of a heating element illustrated in Fig. 1, the filler is prevented from moving in the insertion direction, thus enhancing the effects of the present invention.

[0035] As to the length of the cut made in the sheet, with reference to Fig. 9, for example, when the length is equal to or greater than 20% of the full length of the sheet in the Y direction, the present invention can be more effective with respect to the insertion of a heating element (211) illustrated in Fig. 1. It is more effective if the length is equal to or greater than 50%. Besides, when the length is equal to or less than 90%, the filler is prevented from moving in the insertion direction along with the insertion of the heating element (211). Further, if the length is equal to or less than 90%, the used filler can be prevented from partially falling off when the electronic cigarette cartridge is removed from the electronic cigarette body after use.

[0036] Although the interval and length of cuts made in the sheet have been described, the cuts may have different lengths and made at different intervals in one sheet.

[0037] In this embodiment, when the filler is fixed to the wrapping member (151) illustrated in Figs. 3, 4, and 10 to 12, it is effective to prevent the used filler from falling off when the electronic cigarette cartridge is removed from the electronic cigarette body after use. This is because, after the use of the electronic cigarette cartridge, the filler has deteriorated by heating and may stick to the heating element (211) illustrated in Fig. 1, which causes the filler to fall off after use. The fallen filler pollutes the inside of the electronic cigarette body, resulting in increased frequency of cleaning, thus causing problems in usability.

[0038] Fig. 1 illustrates an example for how an electronic cigarette cartridge (100) is used. The electronic cigarette cartridge (100) is attached to an electronic cigarette body (200) when used by a user. The electronic cigarette body (200) is provided with an insertion portion (210) for inserting the electronic cigarette cartridge (100).

[0039] The heating element (211) is arranged in the center of the bottom of the insertion portion (210). The heating element (211) includes a pin-shaped or blade-shaped member with a sharp tip, and is inserted in an aerosol-forming substrate (110) to heat the aerosol-forming substrate (110). Specifically, when the electronic cigarette cartridge (100) is fitted in the insertion portion (210) of the electronic cigarette body (200), the heating element (211) is inserted into the center of the aerosol-forming substrate (110).

[0040] The heating element (211) generates heat directly or indirectly by power supplied from a battery (not illustrated) arranged in the electronic cigarette body (200). Heating the aerosol-forming substrate (110) by the heat of the heating element (211) generates an aerosol containing aroma components. The generated aerosol is transferred to a mouthpiece (140) through a support element (300) and a transfer member (130) (described later). When the user inhales the aerosol from the mouthpiece (140) side, the aroma components reach the user's mouth. Hereinafter, the side of the aerosol-forming substrate (110) of the electronic cigarette cartridge is referred to as "upstream side" (10), and the mouthpiece side is referred to as "downstream side" (20) for convenience of describing the embodiment. In addition, the upstream side (10) may be referred to as "one end side", and the downstream side (20) may be referred to as "the other end side".

[0041] Although Fig. 1 illustrates the heating element (211) that includes a single pin-like or blade-like member, as another example, the heating element (211) may include a plurality of pin-like or blade-like members.

[0042] Fig. 2 illustrates an example of the structure of the electronic cigarette cartridge (100). The electronic cigarette cartridge (100) includes the aerosol-forming substrate (110), the support element (300), the transfer member (130), and the mouthpiece (140), which are arranged in this order from the side where the heating element (211) illustrated in Fig. 1 is inserted, i.e., from the upstream side (10), to the downstream side (20), and has, for example, a rod-like or cylindrical appearance.

[0043] The support element (300) supports the aerosol forming substrate (110). The support element (300) is arranged adjacent to the aerosol-forming substrate (110), and its side (160) is in contact with the wrapping sheet (150) arranged around the circumference of the electronic cigarette cartridge (100). The side (160) is fixed to the inner surface of the wrapping sheet (150) with, for example, an adhesive.

[0044] The support element (300) can be suitably formed using, for example, silicone; however, it is not so limited, and other materials having excellent heat resistance may also be used.

[0045] The aerosol-forming substrate (110) is located in the end of the electronic cigarette cartridge (100) on the upstream side (10), while the mouthpiece (140) is located in the end on the downstream side (20). The direction that connects the locations of the aerosol-forming substrate (110) and the mouthpiece (140), i.e., the direction in which the four components: the aerosol-forming substrate (110), the support element (300), the transfer member (130), and the mouthpiece (140), are arranged adjacent to one another, is defined as the longitudinal direction of the electronic cigarette cartridge (100).

[0046] The aerosol-forming substrate (110), the support element (300), the transfer member (130), and the mouthpiece (140) are wrapped with the wrapping sheet (150). For example, the longitudinal direction of the aerosol-forming substrate (110) is parallel to the longitudinal direction of the electronic cigarette cartridge (100). In addition, the longitudinal direction of the electronic cigarette cartridge (100) and the longitudinal direction of the aerosol-forming substrate (110) are parallel to the Y-axis direction in relation to the electronic cigarette filler illustrated in, for example, Figs. 6B and 6C.

[0047] The aerosol-forming substrate (110) includes an electronic cigarette filler, and, for example, when heated, generates an aerosol containing aroma components and the like of the plant used as a material for the electronic cigarette filler.

[0048] The support element (300) is made of, for example, silicone, and supports the aerosol-forming substrate (110). The side of the support element (300) is fixed to the inner surface of the wrapping sheet (150) with, for example, an adhesive. The support element (300) may not necessarily be made of silicone, and can be made of other materials having excellent heat resistance.

[0049] As illustrated, the support element (300) has a through hole for airflow in the center. The aerosol generated in the aerosol-forming substrate (110) passes through the through hole and flows toward the mouthpiece (140). The support element (300) may be provided with a notch, a through hole for airflow, or the like in its side.

[0050] The transfer member (130) includes a hollow tubular member or a roll of a polymer sheet crimped in the longitudinal direction of the electronic cigarette cartridge (100), and, for example, cools the aerosol flowing toward the mouthpiece (140).

[0051] The mouthpiece (140) is made of, for example, paper or the like. The mouthpiece (140) may include a cellulose acetate filter for removing fine particles. The user inhales the aroma components that have passed through the filter of the mouthpiece (140).

[0052] Note that the transfer member (130) can be spared to reduce the number of components. The removal of the transfer member (130) improves the air permeability, which facilitates the flow of the generated aerosol to the downstream side (20), thus making it easier for the user to inhale the aroma components.

[0053] As an example structure, the transfer member (130) is spared, and the mouthpiece (140) having a length increased in the longitudinal direction of the electronic cigarette cartridge (100) is arranged adjacent to the support element (300). In this case, for example, the cellulose acetate filter may also be provided with a cooling function.

[0054] Further, the wrapping sheet (150) may also serve as a wrapping member for wrapping the electronic cigarette filler. This makes the flow of the aerosol stable, thus making it easier for the user to inhale the aroma components.

[0055] Fig. 3 illustrates an example in which a filler (111) created as the aerosol-forming substrate (110) is a roll of a sheet, i.e., a roll made by wrapping a sheet around the approximate central axis (112) of the cross section of the electronic cigarette cartridge is used as the filler. In this example, the filler is filled in the wrapping member (151) that is formed in a cylindrical shape. A sheet of paper such as cigarette paper rolled into a cylindrical shape can be used as the wrapping member (151). The wrapping sheet (150) may also serve as the wrapping member (151). This makes the airflow stable, thus making it easier for the user to inhale the aroma components from the aerosol-forming substrate (110).

[0056] Figs. 4 (1) to 4 (4) are diagrams illustrating examples for how a sheet is filled as a filler. Figs. 4 (1) to 4 (4) each illustrate the aerosol-forming substrate (110) viewed from the upstream side (10), or the cross section in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal centerline of the electronic cigarette cartridge.

[0057] Fig. 4 (1) illustrates an example in which a sheet is rolled like 'norimaki' into a roll and filled in the wrapping member (151) as the filler (111).

[0058] In Fig. 4 (2), a sheet is folded in a size substantially equal to or slightly smaller than the inner diameter of the wrapping member (151), and the folded sheet is filled in the wrapping member (151) as the filler (111) such that the direction of the fold line extends along the longitudinal direction of the electronic cigarette cartridge.

[0059] In Fig. 4 (3), a sheet is folded in a size larger than the inner diameter of the wrapping member (151). Further, the folded sheet is bent or curved substantially at its center and filled such that the direction of the fold line extends along the longitudinal direction of the electronic cigarette cartridge.

[0060] In Fig. 4 (4), the process includes, for example, crimping, and a sheet is folded with a width smaller than the inner diameter of the wrapping member (151). The folded sheet is filled such that the direction of the fold line extends along the longitudinal direction of the electronic cigarette cartridge. It may also be preferred that the crimped sheet be used in the above examples of Figs. 4 (1) to 4 (3); the crimped sheet may be rolled into a roll, folded, or bent or curved after folded as illustrated in Figs. 4 (1) to 4 (3).

[0061] Fig. 5 is a schematic flowchart illustrating a manufacturing method of an electronic cigarette filler and the like according to an embodiment. With reference to Fig. 5, a description will be given of the manufacturing method of an electronic cigarette filler according to the embodiment.

[0062] According to the embodiment, the manufacturing method of an electronic cigarette filler is performed as follows: in step S101, materials are prepared; in step S102, the prepared materials are mixed to make a non-tobacco plant composition; in step S103, the non-tobacco plant composition made in step S102 is processed to obtain an electronic cigarette filler.

[0063] An electronic cigarette cartridge can be manufactured using the electronic cigarette filler obtained in step S103, which is step S104 in this case.

[0064] The step of preparing materials (step S101) includes three steps S101a, S101b, and S101c: a step of drying and grinding non-tobacco plants or the like as a source of aroma (step S101a), a step of dissolving menthol (step S101b), and a step of preparing materials such as an aerosol former (step S101c). The steps S101a to S101c may be performed in any order. The steps can also be performed in parallel.

[0065]  The step of drying and grinding non-tobacco plants (step S101a) will be described. The non-tobacco plants are dried and then ground. For example, the drying is performed by heating in an oven. The drying temperature is preferably in the range from 60 °C to 80 °C. In this temperature range, it is easy to achieve a desired water content while avoiding the dissipation (sublimation) of necessary aroma components. When the drying temperature is 65 °C or higher, it is easier to achieve a desired water content. When the temperature is 75 °C or lower, it is possible to further prevent the necessary aroma components from dissipating.

[0066] The grinding is performed using, for example, a stirring grinder. Parts of non-tobacco plants (leaf, seed, dried fruit, stem, bark, root, etc.) used as raw materials are processed into a desired ground product to make a non-tobacco plant composition. At this time, it is preferable to adjust the water content so that it is convenient for the absorption or support of components such as, for example, water and the aerosol former prepared in step S101c.

[0067] When the non-tobacco plants do not need to be dried, they can be ground without drying. If the raw materials need neither drying nor grinding and can be used without any process, step S101a can be skipped, and the process can proceed to the mixing step (step S102).

[0068] Note that, preferably, the non-tobacco plants have a water content of 5 wt% or less after drying and grinding. This facilitates slurrying in the mixing step (step S102). More preferably, the non-tobacco plants have a water content of 3 wt% or less after drying and grinding. It is also preferred that the non-tobacco plants have a water content of 0.1 wt% or more after drying and grinding. With this, they can be maintained in hydrophilic condition.

[0069] In addition, the drying and grinding step (step S101a) may include a sieving step for sieving the dried ground product. By employing the sieving step, the non-tobacco plants and the like with a desired particle size can be sent to the mixing step (step S102).

[0070] In one example, after dried at 70 °C in an oven, tea leaves were ground using a stirring grinder, and passed through an 80-mesh sieve. Their water content was 2 wt%.

[0071] Next, the step of dissolving menthol (step S101b) will be described. In step S101b, menthol, lower alcohol, and water-insoluble cross-linked polymer are weighed and mixed to dissolve the menthol. Preferably, after the menthol is dissolved in the lower alcohol, the water-insoluble cross-linked polymer is added thereto and mixed. Mixing of menthol, lower alcohol, and water-insoluble cross-linked polymer achieves an effect of suppressing the dissipation of the menthol.

[0072] The menthol need not necessarily be obtained from natural sources, and may be synthetic. In addition, peppermint, mint, mint oil, and other materials that contain menthol may also be used.

[0073] Lower alcohol is a solvent that dissolves menthol, and ethyl alcohol is particularly preferable for use.

[0074] The term "water-insoluble cross-linked polymer" refers to a substance obtained by cross-linking a non-cross-linked polymer that is soluble in water to make it insoluble in water and swell. Obviously, it is preferable that it swell without dissolving in lower alcohol, and such polymer is selected. The water-insoluble cross-linked polymer has hydrophilic and hydrophobic parts. It is assumed that the hydrophilic part contributes to swelling and oriented to menthol, thereby suppressing the dissipation of the menthol. Preferred examples of the water-insoluble cross-linked polymer may include: polyvinylpolypyrrolidone, i.e., cross-linked polyvinylpyrrolidone, and cross-linked polysaccharide obtained by cross-linking a water-soluble polysaccharide to make it insoluble in water, such as epoxy cross-linked polysaccharide, ester-cross-linked polysaccharide, and ether-cross-linked polysaccharide.

[0075] Incidentally, the use of ethanol and polyvinylpolypyrrolidone with menthol was particularly effective in suppressing the dissipation of the menthol.

[0076] The menthol may be added in an amount sufficient to achieve desired flavor. As a standard for desired menthol flavoring, preferably, the electronic cigarette filler obtained in step S103 has a menthol content of 0.1 wt% to 10 wt%, more preferably, 0.2 wt% to 5 wt%.

[0077] For creating the electronic cigarette filler, the amount of the water-insoluble cross-linked polymer to be added preferably ranges from 10 to 2000 parts by mass, more preferably 50 to 600 parts by mass, with respect to 100 parts by mass of menthol. In other words, the content of the water-insoluble cross-linked polymer in the electronic cigarette filler is preferably 0.1 to 20 times the menthol content, more preferably 0.5 to 6 times the menthol content.

[0078]  In order to achieve the effect of suppressing the dissipation of the menthol, the water-insoluble cross-linked polymer is preferably present in an amount of 2 wt% or more, more preferably 4 wt% or more in the electronic cigarette filler. With this amount of the water-insoluble cross-linked polymer, the electronic cigarette filler can be stored for a long time with little dissipation of the menthol, and the user can enjoy the refreshing flavor of menthol even after long storing. Besides, the content of the water-insoluble cross-linked polymer in the electronic cigarette filler is preferably 20 wt% or less, and more preferably in a range not exceeding 10 wt%. When its content is within 10 wt%, it is possible to maintain the flavor derived from non-plant-based polyphenols or the like.

[0079] The amount of lower alcohol to be used is preferably 50 parts by mass or more with respect to 100 parts by mass of menthol. Further, when 100 parts by mass or more of lower alcohol is used, it can be sufficiently mixed with the water-insoluble cross-linked polymer while dissolving the menthol. When the amount is 2000 parts by mass or less, the residual of the lower alcohol can be reduced in the subsequent process, and an efficient manufacturing process can be achieved.

[0080] In one example, the following materials were weighed:

menthol	100 parts by mass
ethyl alcohol	200 parts by mass
polyvinylpolypyrrolidone	200 parts by mass

After menthol was dissolved in ethyl alcohol to obtain a menthol ethyl alcohol solution, polyvinylpolypyrrolidone was added to the menthol ethyl alcohol solution and mixed by stirring to obtain a menthol/ethyl alcohol/polyvinylpolypyrrolidone mixture.

[0081] The step of preparing materials such as an aerosol former (step S101c) will be described. In step S101c, an aerosol former, a flavor additive, a preservative, a binder or a thickener, and the like are prepared.

[0082] Besides, food preservatives can be added as necessary. As the preservatives, for example, sorbic acid, potassium sorbate, benzoic acid, sodium benzoate, and the like can be used.

[0083] As the binder or the thickener, the following can be used: gums such as guar gum, xanthan gum, gum arabic, and locust bean gum; cellulose binders such as hydroxypropylcellulose, carboxymethylcellulose, hydroxyethylcellulose, methylcellulose, and ethyl cellulose; and polysaccharides such as starch, organic acids such as alginic acid, sodium alginate, sodium carboxymethylcellulose, carrageen, conjugate base of organic acids such as agar and pectin. These may be used in combination.

[0084] In one example, glycerin, propylene glycol, sodium carboxymethylcellulose, and methylcellulose were prepared. There were also prepared glucomannan and an aqueous xylitol solution that was obtained by mixing 100 parts by mass of xylitol with 400 parts by mass of water and stirring it.

[0085] Next, step S102 will be described. In step S102, the materials prepared in step S101 are weighed and mixed to obtain, for example, a non-tobacco plant composition slurry.

[0086]  In the mixing step (step S102), an ordinary mixer can be used. For example, a mixer that mixes materials in the mixing tank with a stirring blade while applying a shearing force is preferably used.

[0087] A non-tobacco plant ground and dried product, a menthol dissolved product, an aerosol former, a binder or a thickener, and water as necessary are mixed to obtain a non-tobacco plant composition.

[0088] In one example, the following materials were put into a mixer and mixed for 15 minutes to make a non-tobacco plant composition:

dry ground tea leaves	100 parts by mass
menthol/ethyl alcohol/polyvinylpolypyrrolidone mixture	25 parts by mass
glycerin	30 parts by mass
propylene glycol	30 parts by mass
sodium carboxymethylcellulose	4 parts by mass
methylcellulose	15 parts by mass
aqueous xylitol solution	8 parts by mass
glucomannan	1 part by mass

[0089] Step S103 will be described. In step S103, the non-tobacco plant composition made in step S102 is processed to obtain an electronic cigarette filler.

[0090] In step S103, first, the non-tobacco plant composition obtained in step S102 is made into a sheet. The sheet may have any planar shape.

[0091] In one example, a three-roll mill (additionally described in Example 7) was used to make the non-tobacco plant composition into a sheet. The three-roll mill can produce a sheet having a desired thickness by the doctor blade while kneading and dispersing materials using shear force due to the different rotation speeds of the rolls and compressing the materials drawn into the narrow gap between the rolls. Besides the three-roll mill, a press roller and a press machine may also be suitably used to make the non-tobacco plant composition into a sheet.

[0092] In the step of making the non-tobacco plant composition into a sheet, non-tobacco plants, aerosol formers, flavor additives, preservatives, binders or thickeners, water, or the like may be added as necessary.

[0093] In addition, it is preferable to use water which has been disinfected or processed to remove microorganisms for manufacturing the electronic cigarette filler. It is also preferable to use pure water obtained by reverse osmosis membrane or ion exchange.

[0094] In one example, the non-tobacco plant composition was fed to the three-roll mill, 20 parts by mass of pure water was added depending on the state of a sheet, and the doctor blade was pressed against the rolls to collect a sheet-like material. This step was repeated 8 times to obtain the final sheet-like non-tobacco plant composition.

[0095] In the step of making the non-tobacco plant composition into a sheet, the thickness of the obtained sheet is preferably in the range from 0.1 mm to 1.0 mm, and more preferably in the range from 0.1 mm to 0.5 mm. In one example, the non-tobacco plant composition was made into a sheet having a thickness of about 0.3 mm.

[0096]  For example, as one method, the sheet may be filled in the wrapping member (151) or the like as illustrated in Figs. 3, 4, and 10 to 12. As another method, as illustrated in Figs. 2 and 7, a sheet having predetermined cuts is processed into a desired shape to obtain a sheet-like member having cuts, a sheet prepared as the filler (111) is processed into a desired shape, then cuts are made therein to obtain a sheet-like member having cuts, and the sheet-like member is filled as the filler (111) in the wrapping sheet (150) or the like. As a further possible method, for example, a prepared sheet is processed into a desired shape and made into a form to be filled, then cuts are made therein, and it is filled in a wrapping sheet (150) or the like as the sheet-like filler having cuts (111). Further, as an example of a possible method, after a prepared sheet is processed into a desired shape and filled as a filler in the wrapping sheet (150) or the like, cuts are made to obtain a sheet-like filler having cuts. Incidentally, the sheet has cuts but is still in one piece because of its non-cut portion.

[0097] Thereafter, cuts are made in the sheet of the non-tobacco plant composition. The cuts are made in the thickness direction of the sheet to a depth that does not penetrate the sheet, for example, a depth that reaches about half of the thickness of the sheet. The cuts can be made using, for example, a cutter such as a rotary cutter with rotary blades.

[0098] The cuts may be made concurrently with the step of making the non-tobacco plant composition into a sheet.

[0099] Fig. 6A is a schematic perspective view illustrating a part of the sheet of the non-tobacco plant composition with cuts made in the thickness direction. In the example of Fig. 6A, the thickness direction of the sheet is parallel to the Z-axis direction, and the sheet has a plurality of cuts (F) made from the surface on the positive side of the Z axis to around the center in the thickness direction. The cuts (F) each extend in the Y-axis direction.

[0100] Fig. 6B is a schematic plan view illustrating the sheet of the non-tobacco plant composition with cuts made in the thickness direction. In the example of Fig. 6B, a plurality of cuts (F) having a length of about 12 mm are made in the Y-axis direction from the surface on the positive side of the Z axis such that their ends are adjacent to one another along the X-axis direction.

[0101] The electronic cigarette filler of the embodiment can be obtained by cutting the sheet of the non-tobacco plant composition along, for example, the dotted line and the dashed line illustrated in Fig. 6B. For example, a cutter such as a rotary cutter with rotary blades is used for cutting.

[0102] Fig. 6C is a schematic plan view illustrating an electronic cigarette filler according to the embodiment. The electronic cigarette filler illustrated in Fig. 6C is a sheet having a Z-axis direction length of, i.e., a thickness of about 0.3 mm, and has a substantially rectangular planar shape with an X-axis direction length of about 75 mm and a Y-axis direction length of about 12 mm. The electronic cigarette filler of the embodiment has a plurality of cuts (F) having a depth of about 0.15 mm in the thickness direction from a surface on the positive side of the Z axis. Each of the cuts (F) is made from one long side of the rectangular electronic cigarette filler, i.e., a side extending in the X-axis direction, and has a length of about 6 mm in a direction in which the short sides extend, i.e., the Y-axis direction. The cuts (F) are arranged at regular intervals in the X-axis direction.

[0103] The shape and size of the electronic cigarette filler can be variously changed. For example, it has a rectangular planar shape in which the long sides are about 2 to 20 times as long as the short sides.

[0104] Figs. 6D to 6J are schematic plan views each illustrating an electronic cigarette filler according to a modification.

[0105] The example of Fig. 6D is different from the example of Fig. 6C in that each cut (F) is made along the Y-axis direction from one long side to the other long side of the rectangular electronic cigarette filler.

[0106] The example of Fig. 6E is different from the example of Fig. 6C in that, in the half area of the non-tobacco plant composition sheet on the negative side of the X axis, each cut (F) is made from one long side, specifically, the long side on the positive side of the Y axis, in the Y-axis negative direction to have a length of about 6 mm, while in the half area on the positive side of the X axis, each cut (F) is made from the other long side, specifically, the long side on the negative side of the Y axis, in the Y-axis positive direction to have a length of about 6 mm.

[0107] Fig. 6F illustrates an example of the electronic cigarette filler, in which cuts (F) made from one long side, specifically, the long side on the positive side of the Y axis, in the Y-axis negative direction to have a length of about 6 mm, and cuts (F) made from the other long side, specifically, the long side on the negative side of the Y axis, in the Y-axis positive direction to have a length of about 6 mm are alternately arranged in the X-axis direction.

[0108] Fig. 6G illustrates an example of the electronic cigarette filler, in which cuts (F) extending in the Y-axis direction are arranged along a diagonal direction that intersects both the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction.

[0109] Fig. 6H illustrates an example of the electronic cigarette filler, in which each cut (F) is made not parallel to the Y-axis direction but along a diagonal direction, differently from the examples of Figs. 6C to 6G. Incidentally, the Y-axis direction component of each cut (F) is longer than the X-axis direction component.

[0110] In the examples of Figs. 6C to 6H, the cuts (F) are made in the thickness direction from the surface on the positive side of the Z axis; however, the cuts may be made in the thickness direction from the surface on the negative side of the Z axis (back surface).

[0111] Figs. 6I and 6J each illustrate an example in which cuts (F) are made from the surfaces on both the positive and negative sides of the Z-axis. In Figs. 6I and 6J, cuts (F) made from the positive side of the Z axis are indicated by solid lines, and cuts (F) made from the negative side of the Z axis are indicated by dotted lines.

[0112] In the example of Fig. 6I, cuts (F) extending from one long side, specifically, the long side on the positive side of the Y axis, are made from the surface on the positive side of the Z axis, while cuts (F) extending from the other long side, specifically, the long side on the negative side of the Y axis are made from the surface on the negative side of the Z axis. The example of Fig. 6I is different from the example of Fig. 6F in that the cuts (F) extending from the other long side are made from the surface on the negative side of the Z axis (lower side with respect to the vertical axis).

[0113] Fig. 6J illustrates an example in which diagonal cuts (F) made from the positive side of the Z axis intersect diagonal cuts (F) made from the negative side of the Z axis in plan view. In the example of Fig. 6J, the Y-axis direction component of each cut (F) is also longer than the X-axis direction component.

[0114] With reference to Fig. 7, the process of manufacturing the electronic cigarette cartridge in step S104 will be described. In Fig. 7, the aerosol-forming substrate (110) obtained as above, the transfer member (130), and the mouthpiece (140), and the support element (300) described below are arranged adjacent to one another in the order as follows: the aerosol-forming substrate (110), the support element (300), the transfer member (130), and the mouthpiece (140), and they are wrapped with the wrapping sheet (150) such as cigarette paper to form a roll rod. In this electronic cigarette cartridge (100), a small amount of adhesive is applied to the side (160) of the support element. An adhesive may also be applied to the side of the aerosol-forming substrate (110) to fix it to the wrapping sheet (150).

[0115] In the process of manufacturing the electronic cigarette cartridge, for example, a sheet of the non-tobacco plant composition is cut in the Y-axis direction along the dotted line in Fig. 6B. One or more sheets cut out of it are wrapped with cigarette paper as a wrapping member to create, for example, a roll that is long in the Y-axis direction with an outer diameter of about 6.9 mm. This roll is cut into a length of 12 mm with a cutter to obtain the aerosol-forming substrate (110). The roll is cut along the dashed line in Fig. 6B.

[0116] In the aerosol-forming substrate (110), for example, an electronic cigarette filler illustrated in the example of Fig. 6C, specifically, a sheet of the non-tobacco plant composition, in which the short sides of its rectangular shape are 12 mm, and cuts (F) are made in a direction parallel to a direction in which the short sides extend, is arranged inside a cylindrical wrapping member. Inside the wrapping member, for example, the electronic cigarette filler illustrated in Fig. 6C is arranged from one to the other longitudinal end of the aerosol-forming substrate (110) having a length of 12 mm. The direction in which the short sides of the rectangular shape of the electronic cigarette filler extend is, for example, substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction of the aerosol-forming substrate (110).

[0117] The aerosol-forming substrate (110) can also be produced with sheets of the electronic cigarette filler having a rectangular shape whose short sides are less than 12 mm by arranging them adjacently in the longitudinal direction of the aerosol-forming substrate (110) or partially overlapped.

[0118] The aerosol-forming substrate (110) has a mass of, for example, about 0.29 g, and the volume filling rate of the electronic cigarette filler with respect to the volume of the aerosol-forming substrate (110) is about 0.60. The filling rate of the electronic cigarette filler can be determined in consideration of the intensity of aroma delivered to the user, the ease of inhale for the user, and the like. The volume filling rate of the electronic cigarette filler with respect to the volume of the aerosol-forming substrate (110) is preferably in the range from 0.55 to 0.65.

[0119] In addition to the aerosol-forming substrate (110), the support element (300), the transfer member (130), and the mouthpiece (140) are also prepared. Then, the four elements are arranged adjacently along one direction in this order, and wrapped with the wrapping sheet (150) such as cigarette paper to produce an electronic cigarette cartridge. At this time, the aerosol-forming substrate (110) is arranged such that one long side of the electronic cigarette filler where cuts (F) are made is located on the end side of the electronic cigarette cartridge, i.e., the side opposite to the support element (300). A small amount of adhesive is applied to the side of the support element (300) beforehand. The four elements may be put in order in the wrapping sheet (150) that is formed in a cylindrical shape in advance.

[0120] In this manner, the electronic cigarette cartridge of the embodiment is manufactured.

[0121] The electronic cigarette filler of the embodiment illustrated in Figs. 6-1 to 6-4 is in the form of a sheet, and cuts (F) are made in the thickness direction of the sheet to a depth that does not penetrate the sheet.

[0122] The aerosol forming substrate (110) of the electronic cigarette cartridge (100) of the embodiment is produced using the electronic cigarette filler of the embodiment. In the electronic cigarette cartridge (100) of the embodiment, the longitudinal direction of the electronic cigarette cartridge (100), i.e., the longitudinal direction of the aerosol-forming substrate (110), is, for example, substantially parallel to a direction in which cuts (F) made in the electronic cigarette filler extend.

[0123] In the electronic cigarette cartridge (100) of the embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate (110) is arranged such that the side of the electronic cigarette filler where cuts (F) are made is located on the upstream side (10) of the electronic cigarette cartridge (100), i.e., on the side where the heating element (211) is inserted when the electronic cigarette cartridge (100) is used as being fitted to the electronic cigarette body (200).

[0124] With this, when the electronic cigarette cartridge (100) of the embodiment is fitted to the electronic cigarette body (200), the heating element (211) can be smoothly inserted into the aerosol-forming substrate (110).

[0125] Furthermore, the aerosol generated in the aerosol forming substrate (110) is facilitated to flow toward the mouthpiece (140).

[0126] The electronic cigarette filler and the electronic cigarette cartridge of the embodiment are high-quality ones.

[0127] Note that, when the electronic cigarette cartridge (100) includes the electronic cigarette filler according to the modification illustrated in Fig. 6H or 6J, i.e., an electronic cigarette filler having diagonal cuts (F) where the Y-axis direction component is longer than the X-axis direction component, for example, the aerosol-forming substrate (110) and the electronic cigarette cartridge (100) are manufactured such that the Y-axis direction of the electronic cigarette filler is parallel to the longitudinal direction of the electronic cigarette cartridge (100).

[0128] In the electronic cigarette cartridge (100) manufactured using the electronic cigarette filler according to the modifications, the heating element (211) can also be smoothly inserted into the aerosol-forming substrate (110).

[0129] In the electronic cigarette cartridge (100), the electronic cigarette filler may only be required to be arranged such that the component of the cuts (F) in the longitudinal direction of the cartridge is longer than the in-plane direction component perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

[0130] While the present invention has been described in particular embodiments, the invention should not be construed as limited to such exemplary embodiments.

[0131] For example, each cut (F) is made in a straight line in the embodiment and the like; however, it may be made in a curved line. As in the embodiment, the Y-axis direction component of the cut (F) is made longer than the X-axis direction component.

[0132] Further, in the electronic cigarette cartridge (100) of the embodiment, a lid may be arranged on the upstream side (10) of the aerosol forming substrate (110). This suppresses the dissipation of the aroma of the electronic cigarette filler as well as preventing the electronic cigarette filler from falling off the electronic cigarette cartridge (100) when, for example, the electronic cigarette cartridge (100) is being transported.

[0133] The lid can be made of a filter, paper, sponge, or the like. In addition, the insertion of the heating element (211) can be facilitated by, for example, making one or more cuts in the lid. Alternatively, a guide hole in a shape such as circle or polygon may be made in the place where the heating element (211) is inserted.

[0134] Further, in the electronic cigarette cartridge (100) of the embodiment, a partition member can be provided between the aerosol-forming substrate (110) and the support element (300). The partition member can be made of, for example, a filter or paper having good air permeability. It is preferable to use a material that is broken when the heating element (211) is inserted. The provision of the partition member can prevent the electronic cigarette filler from moving in the electronic cigarette cartridge (100) while the electronic cigarette cartridge (100) is being transported or the like.

[0135] Incidentally, the electronic cigarette cartridge (100) of the embodiment can be used as being fitted to an electronic cigarette body having no heating element.

[0136] Next, a detailed description will be given of a usage example of the electronic cigarette cartridge of the present invention.

[0137] As illustrated in Fig. 2, the electronic cigarette cartridge (100) has, for example, a rod-like or cylindrical appearance. In the electronic cigarette cartridge (100), the aerosol forming substrate (110) is located in one end, and the support element (300) and the transfer member (130) are arranged in this order toward the mouthpiece (140) located in the other end. They are wrapped with the wrapping sheet (150) as illustrated in Figs. 2 and 7.

[0138] The aerosol-forming substrate (110) includes an electronic cigarette filler. When heated, the aerosol-forming substrate (110) generates an aerosol that contains aroma components of the plant which is a material of the filler.

[0139] The filler as the aerosol-forming substrate (110) is used in a form of a sheet that is rolled or folded. The rolled or folded state includes a state where sheets are wound, folded, or compressed/contracted when assembled. It is also preferable that sheets be crimped, crinkled, pleated, or similarly treated.

[0140] The support element (300) supports the aerosol forming substrate (110). The support element (300) is arranged adjacent to the aerosol-forming substrate (110). The support element (300) has a notch or a through hole for airflow in its center or side so that the aerosol generated from the aerosol-forming substrate (110) can flow toward the mouthpiece (140).

[0141] The mouthpiece (140) is arranged adjacent to the transfer member (130) on the downstream side (20) of the electronic cigarette cartridge (100). The mouthpiece (140) may include, for example, a cellulose acetate filter as a filter for removing fine particles. The user inhales the aroma components that have passed through the filter of the mouthpiece (140).

[0142] Comparing with and without the transfer member (130), the air permeability is better without the transfer member (130), which makes it easier to inhale the generated aroma components. However, it may also be preferable to use the transfer member (130) to add a function of cooling the generated aerosol. Instead of providing the transfer member (130), it may also be preferable to extend the mouthpiece such that it is adjacent to or in contact with the support element (300). This is because the filter used in the mouthpiece can also serve a cooling function, and the number of parts can be reduced. As the transfer member (130), a hollow tubular member is used, and a crimped polymer sheet that is rolled in the longitudinal direction of the electronic cigarette cartridge can be used.

[0143] Fig. 8 (1) illustrates a structure in which the aerosol-forming substrate (110) and the support element (300) are in contact with each other. This form is preferable since the aerosol-forming substrate (110) can be stably supported. Moreover, because of the simple structure, this is also highly advantageous in terms of manufacturing.

[0144] Fig. 8 (2) illustrates a structure in which a partition member (180) is provided between the aerosol-forming substrate (110) and the support element (300) such that they are in contact with each other through the partition member (180). As examples of the partition member (180) may be cited a filter or paper having good air permeability, and the like. It is preferable to use a material that is broken when the heating element (211) is inserted. The provision of the partition member is effective in preventing the aerosol-forming substrate (110) from moving in the electronic cigarette cartridge due to physical distribution such as transportation.

[0145]  Fig. 8 (3) illustrates another preferred structure in which a lid (170) is arranged on the side where the heating element (211) is inserted in the aerosol-forming substrate (110). This is effective in preventing the dissipation of the aroma of the aerosol-forming substrate (110). This structure also has the effect of preventing the aerosol-forming substrate (110) from falling out of the electronic cigarette cartridge due to physical distribution such as transportation. Examples of the material of the lid (170) include a filter, paper, and sponge. In terms of the insertion of the heating element, it is also preferable to make one or more cuts in the lid (170), or to provide a circular or polygonal guide hole in the place where the heating element is inserted.

[0146] Described below is a specific embodiment preferable for the electronic cigarette cartridge.

[0147] The aerosol-forming substrate (110) has an approximately cylindrical shape in which the filler is wrapped with cigarette paper or the like. The diameter of the bottom or top of the approximate cylinder is in the range of 6.5 mm to 7.5 mm. The height of the approximate cylinder is in the range of 10.0 mm to 15.0 mm, preferably in the range of 11.0 mm to 13.0 mm.

[0148] It is preferable that the filler be in the shape of a rod or a strip and filled along the longitudinal direction of the electronic cigarette cartridge, and that the length of the filler be substantially equal to the height of the approximate cylinder. That is, the length of the filler is in the range of 10.0 mm to 15.0 mm, preferably in the range of 11.0 mm to 13.0 mm.

[0149]  Preferably, the outer diameter of the support element (300) is substantially equal to the diameter of the bottom or top of the approximately cylindrical shape of the aerosol-forming substrate (110), and the length is in the range of 9.0 mm to 11.0 mm.

[0150] Further, the mouthpiece (140) has a length exceeding 20.0 mm, preferably in the range from 21.0 mm to 25.0 mm.

[0151] Preferably, the volume filling rate of the aerosol-forming substrate is in the range from 0.55 to 0.65.

[0152] Described below are non-tobacco plants used for the aerosol-forming substrate according to the present invention.

[0153] Non-tobacco plants used as raw materials will be described. The non-tobacco plant that can be used in this embodiment is not particularly limited as long as it is a plant other than tobacco. Examples of usable parts of plants include: root (including scaly roots (scaly bulbs), tubers (potatoes), bulbs, etc.), stem, tuber, skin (including stem barks, tree barks, etc.), leaf, flower (including petals, pistils, stamens, etc.), tree trunks and branches; various parts can be used.

[0154] Examples of scaly bulbs include: onions, cluster amaryllis, tulips, hyacinths, garlic, lacquer, and lilies. Examples of bulbs include: crocus, gladiolus, freesia, iris, taro, and konjac. Examples of tubers include: konjac, cyclamen, anemone, begonia, Chinese artichokes, potatoes, and apios (potato beans). The following may also be used: rhizomes including canna, lotus (lotus root), and ginger; tuberous roots including dahlia, sweet potatoes, cassava, and Jerusalem artichokes; rhizophore including dioscorea species (yams such as Japanese yam, wild yam, and Chinese yam), and others including turnips, burdock, carrots, radish, and kudzu. Examples of stems include asparagus, bamboo shoots, udo, radish, and yacon.

[0155] The above-mentioned tubers or the following plants contain carbohydrates and are preferably used as at least a part of the material of the filler (111). For example, starch such as corn starch (corn), potato starch (potato), sweet potato starch (sweet potato), tapioca starch (tapioca), and the like may be used as thickeners and stabilizers. These starches may be subjected to cross-linking to improve the acid resistance, heat resistance, shear resistance, and the like; or esterification/etherification to improve the preservation stability and accelerate the gelatinization; or oxidation to improve the transparency, film properties, preservation stability, and the like.

[0156] Tamarind seed gum, guar gum, salmon locust bean gum can be extracted from plant seeds. Gum arabic and karaya gum can be extracted from tree sap. Pectin can be extracted from fruits. Konjac mannan mainly composed of cellulose and agarose and soybean polysaccharide can be extracted from other plants. Further, they can be used in a denatured form such as cationized guar gum.

[0157] Three types of carrageenan: kappa carrageenan, iota carrageenan, and lambda carrageenan; agar, and alginic acid can be extracted from seaweeds. They are also used as salts such as carrageenan metal salt and sodium alginate.

[0158] Specific examples of plants used as herbs and spices include: gardenia fruits, kaffir lime leaves, Japanese ginger, mugwort, wasabi, ajowan seeds, anise seeds, alfalfa, echinacea, shallot, estragon, everlasting flower, elder, allspice, orris root, oregano, orange peel, orange flower, orange leaves, cayenne chili pepper, chamomile german, chamomile roman, cardamom, curry leaves, garlic, catnip, caraway, caraway seeds, fragrant olive, cumin, cumin seeds, clove, green cardamom, green pepper, corn flour, saffron, cedar, cinnamon, jasmine, juniper berry, jolokia, ginger, star anise, spearmint, sumac, sage, savory, celery, celery seeds, turmeric, thyme, tamarind, tarragon, chervil (French parsley), chives, dill, dill seeds, tomato (dried tomato), tonka beans, dried coriander leaves, nutmeg, hibiscus, habanero, jalapeno, bird's eye chili, basil, vanilla, coriander, parsley, paprika, hyssop, Espelette pepper, pink pepper, fenugreek seeds, fennel, brown mustard, black cardamom, black cumin, black pepper, vetiver, penny royal mint, peppermint, horseradish, white pepper, white mustard, poppy seeds, porcini mushrooms, marjoram, mustard seeds, melegueta pepper, marigold, common mallow, mace, yarrow, eucalyptus, lavender, licorice, linden, red clover, red pepper, lemongrass, lemon verbena, lemon balm, lemon peel, rose, rose buds (purple), rosehip, rose petal, rosemary, rose red, laurel (laurier), long pepper, sesame (fresh sesame, roasted sesame), golden pepper, flower pepper (huajiao), santaka pepper, Japanese pepper, chili pepper, yuzu, and the like. In addition, mixed spices (for example, five spice powder, garam masala, ras el hanout, barigoule, chicken tikka masala powder, tandoori masala powder, quatre epice, herbes de Provence) and mixtures of various plants used for potpourri or the like can be used.

[0159] Besides, edible fruits (pulp) or seeds such as peaches, blueberries, lemons, oranges, apples, bananas, pineapples, mangos, grapes, kumquats, melons, plums, almonds, cocoa beans, coffee beans, peanuts, sunflower seeds, olives, walnuts, and other nuts can be used.

[0160] Tea can also be used. There are various types of tea. Some of them are produced from different plants, while some of them are derived from the same plant, but what makes them different is how they are processed. Specifically, examples of tea include: Japanese tea, black tea, tomorrow leaf tea, sweet hydrangea tea, jiaogulan tea, aloe tea, ginkgo leaf tea, oolong tea, turmeric tea, quercus salicina tea, eleuthero tea, psyllium tea, glechoma hederacea tea, persimmon leaf tea, chamomile tea, Kawaraketsumei tea, quince tea, chrysanthemum tea, gymnema tea, guava tea, wolfberry tea, mulberry leaf tea, black bean tea, geranium herb tea, brown rice tea, burdock tea, comfrey tea, kombu kelp tea, cherry sakura tea, saffron tea, shiitake mushroom tea, shiso tea, jasmine tea, ginger tea, sugina tea, acorus gramineus tea, senburi tea, buckwheat tea, taranoki tea, dandelion tea, blackberry leaf tea, dokudami tea, tochu tea, jack bean tea, elderberry tea, Japanese privet tea, pearl barley tea, hub tea, loquat leaf tea, pu-erh tea, safflower tea, pine needle tea, mate tea, barley tea, nikko maple tea, mugwort tea, eucalyptus tea, monkfruit tea, rooibos tea, karela tea, and the like. As to the tea, used tea leaves after drinking can be used. Expensive tea can be effectively reused by recycling used tea leaves.

[0161] While kelp is mentioned above as a specific example of plants that can be used, other seaweeds can also be used. Examples of them include: aosa, aonori, akamok, asakusanori, alame, iwanori (rock laver), egonori, ogonori, gagome kombu, kajime, ganiashi, kubirezuta, kurome, kombu, susabinori, dulse, chishima-kuronori, tsuru-arame, tengusa, tororo kombu, nekoashi-kombu, nori (laver), habanori, hijiki, hitoegusa, hirome, funori, bouaonori, makomb, mekabu, mozuku, and wakame.

[0162] Although brown rice is mentioned above as a specific example of plants that can be used, other types of rice can be used as well. Examples of them include: Indica varieties (Indian, continental, long grain rice), Oryza glaberrima (African rice), Oryza sativa (Asian rice), Javanica varieties (Java, tropical island type, large grain rice), Japonica varieties (Japanese, temperate island type, short grain rice), and NERICA (a hybrid of African and Asian rice varieties). Rice flour or bran can also be used.

[0163] While barley is mentioned above as a specific example of plants that can be used, other grains can also be used. Examples of them include: foxtail millet, common oat (cultivar of oats, oats), barley, wild oats, common millet, Kodo millet (Koda millet), wheat, finger millet, teff, pearl millet, naked barley (a variety of barley), adlay millet (not seeds, but fruits), Japanese millet, fonio, makomo, sweet barley (sticky barley), sorghum (takakibi, kaoliang, etc.), corn, and rye.

[0164] Although black bean is mentioned above as a specific example of plants that can be used, other beans/peas (leguminous plants) can be used as well. Examples of them include: azuki bean, carob, kidney bean, grass pea (Lathyrus sativus), black gram, black-eyed pea, winged bean, geocarpa groundnut, broad bean, soybean, ricebean, Jack bean, tamarind, tepary bean, sword bean, Hassjoo (Yokohama velvet) bean (mucuna pruriens), bambara bean, chickpea, hyacinth bean, scarlet runner bean, horse gram (macrotyloma uniflorum), moth bean, lima bean, peanut, mung bean, lupin bean, and lentil.

[0165]  Further, while buckwheat is mentioned above as a specific example of plants that can be used, other grains can also be used. Examples of them include: amaranth (Amaranthus caudatus), quinoa, and tartary buckwheat.

[0166] Further, although shiitake mushroom is mentioned above as a specific example of plants that can be used, other mushrooms can be used as well. Examples of them include: matsutake mushroom, shiitake mushroom, hatsutake mushroom, shimeji mushroom, shoro mushroom, common mushroom, and haratake mushroom.

[0167] In addition, sugarcane (including sugarcane bagasse), beet (sugar beet), and the trunk, branches, bark, leaves, and roots of aromatic trees such as Japanese cypress, pine, cedar, hiba, camellia, sandalwood, and the like can be used. Likewise, ferns and mosses can also be used as non-tobacco plants. Examples of the plants further include by-products or pomace (sake lees, rape (the skins, seeds, and stems of grapes left after wine-making) obtained in the process of brewing fermented liquors such as sake and wine. Further, any combination of the above can also be used. Obviously, plants other than those listed here can be used as well.

[0168] Further, those known as Chinese medicine may also be preferably used. Examples are as follows: aiso, akanekon, akamegashiwa, asenyaku, ansokuko, ireisen, inchinko, fennel (uikyo), turmeric (ukon), ubai, uyaku, urajirogash, uwaurushi, eijitsu, engosaku, enmeiso, ogi, ogon, osei, obaku, oren, ohi, otogiriso, onji, kaika, gaihaku, kagoso, kashi, kashu, gajutsu, kakko, kakkon, chamomile, karokon, karonin, kankyo, licorice, kantoka, gaiyo, kikkyo, kigushi, kigushi, kikoku, kijitsu, kikuka, kippi, kyokatsu, kyonin, kumquat (kinkan), kinginka, kinsenso, kukoshi, kukoyo, kujin, walnut, kurenpi, kuromoji, kubaku, keigai, cinnamon (keihi), ketsumeishi, kengoshi, genjin, koi, safflower (koka), gokampi), kouko, koshi, kojyu, kojin, kobushi, kobei, koboku, kohon, gokahi, goshitsu, goshuyu, gojokon, goboshi, gomishi, saiko, saishin, saffron, sankirai, sanzashi, sanshishi, sanshuyu, sanzukon, sansonin, sansho sanryo, sanyaku, jio, shion, jikoppi, shikon, shisoshi, shisoyo, shitsurishi, shitei, jifushi, peony (shakuyaku), jashoshi, shajin, shazenshi, shazenso, shukusha , houttuynia (juyaku), ginger, shrimp, coconut leaves, sesame seeds, wheat, ginger (shokyo), shurojitsu, shuroyo, shoma, wheat (shobaku), shobukon, shini, joteishi, sinpi, shinkiku, gingyo, Juishui, shokumoku, seihi, sekishokon, sekiryujitsuhi, senkkoku), senkyu, zenko, senkotsu, senpukuka, sekkotsuboku, soka, sokakushi, sokisei, sojishi, sojutsu, sokuhakuyo, zokudan, sohakuhi, soboku, soyo, sokyo, daio, taiso, daifukuhi, takusha, tanjin, chikujo, chikusetsuninjin, chikuyo, chimo, chiyu, clove (choji), chotoko, chinpi, tennansho, tenma, tenmonto, winter melon seed (togashi), toki, togoma, tojin, toshinso, tonin, orange peel (tohi), toshin, tochinomi, tochu, dokkatsu, dokakon, nikujuyo, nikuzuku, nindo, ginseng root (ninjin), baimo, malt (bakuga), hakushinin, hakuhenzu, bakumonto, hakoshi, mint (hakka), banka, hange, hanbi, banrankon, hansiren, yurine, byakushi, byakukajazetsuso, hyakubukon, byakujutsu, binroji, boi, bokon, bofu, houo, hoeikon, botanpi, ephedra (mao), mashinin, mankeishi, matsuyani, mokutsu, mokka, mokko, motsuyaku, mokuzoku, yakan, yakuchi, yakoto, rakanka, ranso, ryuganiku, ryutan, ryokyo, reishi, forsythia (rengyo), glechoma (rensenso), renniku, and rokon.

[0169] Further, the extracts of the non-tobacco plants exemplified above can also be used. For example, the extracts may be in liquid, paste, flake, solution form.

[0170] In the following, a specific description will be given of the present invention. Electronic cigarette cartridges prepared in the following examples are evaluated with an electronic cigarette body as illustrated in Fig. 1. Described below is an overview of the electronic cigarette body.

[0171] The heating element (211) has a width of 4.5 mm and a thickness of 0.4 mm, and its length to the tip is 12 mm. The insertion portion (210) has an inner diameter of 7 mm, which is substantially equal to the outer shape of the electronic cigarette cartridge. The heating element (211) generates heat by power supplied from a battery (not illustrated) arranged in the electronic cigarette body (200) and reaches approximately 370°C. Under the control of its built-in control system, one electronic cigarette cartridge lasts about 14 puffs. Incidentally, the electronic cigarette cartridge of the embodiment sticks out of the electronic cigarette body about 20 mm on the downstream side when the electronic cigarette cartridge is inserted therein.

(Example 1)

[0172] Cellulose fibers, a binder, black tea leaves, an aerosol former, and a flavor additive were mixed into a slurry, and the slurry was casted on a metal plate and dried to prepare a sheet. The thickness was set to 0.2 mm. The obtained sheet was cut into a length of 12 mm and a width of 120 mm. Its mass was 0.29 g. As illustrated in Fig. 9, cuts (F) were made at an interval W of 4 mm with a cutter for paper cutouts from a position at two-thirds of the length in the vertical direction (Y direction) such that each cut had a vertical length of 8 mm corresponding to two-thirds of the length. This cut-making was repeated in the horizontal direction (X direction).

[0173] The electronic cigarette cartridge was configured as illustrated in Figs. 2 and 7. The wrapping member (151) formed into a cylindrical shape with a diameter of 7 mm and a height of 12 mm was filled with a filler to form the aerosol-forming substrate (110). As the support element (300), a hollow tube having a through hole in the center was used. The tube was made of cellulose acetate, the diameter of the bottom was 7 mm, and the diameter of the through hole forming a hollow portion was 3 mm. As well as the function of supporting the aerosol-forming substrate (110) against the insertion force when the heating element (211) is inserted, the support element (300) has a through hole to serve a function of guiding generated aerosol from the upstream side (10) to the downstream side (20) to reach the mouth of the user.

[0174] A gathered polymer sheet was rolled into a cylinder with a bottom diameter of 7 mm and a height of 18 mm for use as the transfer member (130). The transfer member (130) has a function of guiding generated aerosol from the upstream side (10) to the downstream side (20) to reach the mouth of the user, and also serves a function of maintaining the appropriate temperature of the aerosol.

[0175] A filter was rolled into a cylinder with a bottom diameter of 7 mm and a height of 7 mm for use as the mouthpiece (140). They were wrapped with the wrapping sheet (150) as illustrated in Figs. 2 and 7 to form an electronic cigarette cartridge.

[0176] The filler (111) having cuts (F) as described above was rolled into a roll and filled in the wrapping member (151) as a filler to obtain the aerosol-forming substrate (110). In the aerosol-forming substrate (110) obtained in this manner, the gap between the sheets serves as an air passage, and the air passage is formed in the longitudinal direction of the electronic cigarette cartridge. Besides, since an adhesive was applied to the side of the filler, the filler adhered to the wrapping member (151) when filled therein. The filler was filled such that the side with the cuts (F) was located on the upstream side (10). Thereby, an electronic cigarette cartridge was obtained.

[0177] In the case of this example, the end of the sheet that appears at one end has a substantially rectangular shape with a long side of 4 mm and a short side of 0.2 mm, which is slightly curved. This example has a feature in that the area of the end shape of the sheet is substantially uniform as observed from the center part (B) to the peripheral part (C) of the aerosol-forming substrate viewed from one end as illustrated in Fig. 10.

[0178] With this feature, when the heating element (211) is inserted, it can be mounted with a certain resistance regardless of the insertion direction. In addition, a uniform passage is formed for the aerosol generated by heating, resulting in a stable inhale quality.

[0179] In addition, the filler or part of the filler did not fall off after use.

(Example 2)

[0180] A filler (111) having the same cuts as in Example 1 was prepared. The sheet with the cuts (F) was folded and filled into the wrapping member (151) to obtain the filler. In the filler formed in this manner, the gap between the sheets serves as an air passage, and the air passage is formed in the longitudinal direction of the electronic cigarette cartridge. Besides, since an adhesive was applied to the side of the filler, the filler adhered to the wrapping member (151) when filled therein. The filler was filled such that the side with the cuts (F) was located on the upstream side (10). Thereby, an electronic cigarette cartridge was obtained as in Example 1.

[0181] In the case of this example, the end of the sheet that appears at one end has a substantially rectangular shape with a long side of 4 mm and a short side of 0.2 mm, which is deformed. This example has a feature in that the area of the end shape of the sheet is almost uniform as observed from the center part (B) to the peripheral part (C) of the aerosol-forming substrate viewed from one end as illustrated in Fig. 10.

[0182] With this feature, when the heating element (211) is inserted, it can be mounted with a certain resistance regardless of the insertion direction. Moreover, a uniform passage is formed for the aerosol generated by heating, resulting in a stable inhale quality.

[0183] In addition, the filler or part of the filler did not fall off after use.

(Example 3)

[0184] Cellulose fibers, a binder, black tea leaves, an aerosol former, and a flavor additive were mixed into a slurry, and the slurry was casted on a metal plate and dried to prepare a sheet. The thickness was set to 0.2 mm. After being cut, the sheet was rolled into a roll and filled in the wrapping member (151) as a filler. In the filler formed in this manner, the gap between the sheets serves as an air passage, and the air passage is formed in the longitudinal direction of the electronic cigarette cartridge. Besides, since an adhesive was applied to the side of the filler, the filler adhered to the wrapping member (151) when filled therein.

[0185] After that, cuts (D1, D2, D3) were made with a cutter for paper cutouts, each in the diametrical direction from one end. As illustrated in Fig. 11, the cuts (D1, D2, D3) were made so as to be equally spaced in the diametrical direction. The depth of each cut was about 8 mm. Thereby, an electronic cigarette cartridge was obtained as in Example 1.

[0186] This example has a feature in that the area of the end shape of the sheet increases as observed from the center part (B) to the peripheral part (C) of the aerosol-forming substrate viewed from one end. Such a structure has a specific effect in that the heating element (211) is inserted with less resistance at the center.

[0187] In addition, the filler or part of the filler did not fall off after use.

(Example 4)

[0188] Cellulose fibers, a binder, black tea leaves, an aerosol former, and a flavor additive were mixed into a slurry, and the slurry was casted on a metal plate and dried to prepare a sheet. The thickness was set to 0.2 mm. The obtained sheet was cut into a length of 12 mm and a width of 120 mm. After being cut, the sheet was folded and filled in the wrapping member (151) as a filler. In the filler formed in this manner, the gap between the sheets serves as an air passage, and the air passage is formed in the longitudinal direction of the electronic cigarette cartridge. Besides, since an adhesive was applied to the side of the filler, the filler adhered to the wrapping member (151) when filled therein.

[0189]  After that, cuts were made with a cutter, each from one end. As illustrated in Fig. 12, three cuts (G1, G2, G3) were made such that they were substantially perpendicular to the ridgeline of the folded filler (111).

[0190] The depth of each cut was about 8 mm. Thereby, an electronic cigarette cartridge was obtained as in Example 1.

[0191] The filler or part of the filler did not fall off after use.

(Example 5)

[0192] Cellulose fibers, a binder, black tea leaves, an aerosol former, and a flavor additive were mixed into a slurry, and the slurry was casted on a metal plate and dried to prepare a sheet. The thickness was set to 0.2 mm. The obtained sheet was cut into a length of 12 mm and a width of 120 mm, and crimped into waves substantially parallel to the short direction (Y direction). A cycle of the waveform is 4 mm. The sheet crimped as described above was rolled into a roll and filled in the wrapping member (151) as a filler. In the filler formed in this manner, the gap between the sheets serves as an air passage, and the air passage is formed in the longitudinal direction of the electronic cigarette cartridge. Besides, since an adhesive was applied to the side of the filler, the filler adhered to the wrapping member (151) when filled therein.

[0193] After that, cuts (D1, D2, D3) were made with a cutter for paper cutouts, each in the diametrical direction from one end. As illustrated in Fig. 11, the cuts (D1, D2, D3) were made so as to be equally spaced in the diametrical direction. The depth of each cut was about 8 mm. Thereby, an electronic cigarette cartridge was obtained as in Example 1.

[0194] This example has a feature in that the area of the end shape of the sheet increases as observed from the center part (B) to the peripheral part (C) of the aerosol-forming substrate viewed from one end. Such a structure has a specific effect in that the heating element (211) is inserted with less resistance at the center.

[0195] The filler or part of the filler did not fall off after use. Furthermore, when the heating element (211) was inserted, it could be mounted with a certain resistance regardless of the insertion direction, presumably because of the crimping, resulting in a stable inhale quality.

(Example 6)

[0196] Cellulose fibers, a binder, black tea leaves, an aerosol former, and a flavor additive were mixed into a slurry, and the slurry was casted on a metal plate and dried to prepare a sheet. The thickness was set to 0.2 mm. The obtained sheet was cut into a length of 12 mm and a width of 120 mm, and crimped into waves substantially parallel to the short direction (Y direction). A cycle of the waveform is 4 mm. The sheet crimped as described above was folded and filled in the wrapping member (151) as a filler. In the filler formed in this manner, the gap between the sheets serves as an air passage, and the air passage is formed in the longitudinal direction of the electronic cigarette cartridge. Besides, since an adhesive was applied to the side of the filler, the filler adhered to the wrapping member (151) when filled therein.

[0197] After that, cuts were made with a cutter, each from one end. As illustrated in Fig. 12, three cuts (G1, G2, G3) were made such that they were substantially perpendicular to the folded filler (111). The depth of each cut was about 8 mm. Thereby, an electronic cigarette cartridge was obtained as in Example 1.

[0198] The filler or part of the filler did not fall off after use.

[0199] Furthermore, when the heating element (211) was inserted, it could be mounted with a certain resistance regardless of the insertion direction, presumably because of the crimping, resulting in a stable inhale quality.

(Example 7)

[0200] In this example, a description will be given of a structure that is particularly suitable for continuously producing sheets each having cuts in one end. Cellulose fibers, a binder, black tea leaves, an aerosol former, and a flavor additive were mixed into a slurry, and the slurry was casted on a metal plate and dried to prepare a sheet. The sheet was formed into one continuous sheet having a width of 120 mm and rolled up in a roll. The continuous sheet was fed from the roll to a roll rotary cutter to make partial cuts therein.

[0201] Fig. 13 illustrates how to make cuts in this embodiment. Cuts are made at intervals W in the X direction in the sheet having a length of 120 mm in the X direction. A non-cut portion H1 and a cut portion H2 are formed cyclically in each length H in the Y direction. Adjacent cuts are shifted by H3. Fig. 14 illustrates an example in which a sheet made in this manner is cut into pieces of length H.

[0202] In Fig. 14, cut portions and non-cut portions are present at an interval of width W in the X direction, and they are continuous in the entire area of the sheet because of the non-cut portions. In the Y direction, there are two sides extending in the X direction, and the cuts are made in both of the two sides. That is, when a sheet with cuts prepared as in this example is used to be filled in the wrapping member (151) to form an aerosol-forming substrate, it means that a filler having cuts in both the upper and lower surfaces is filled. Such a method of forming the aerosol-forming substrate is suitable for continuous production. This is because both directions can be used with respect to the aerosol-forming substrate, which is suitable for automatic assembly of the electronic cigarette cartridge.

[0203] Although a specific example is described above, the method is not so limited. In continuous production, in order to obtain a sheet that is continuous in the entire area with non-cut portions, the cut length H2 needs to be less than the width of the sheet in the Y direction. This can be achieved by arranging cuts so as to make the cuts on both one and the other end sides.

[0204] That is, it is possible to create a sheet-like member, in which cut portions are present at predetermined intervals in a direction crossing the longitudinal axis of the electronic cigarette cartridge, and which is continuous in the entire area with non-cut portions, and which has cuts on both one and the other end sides of the aerosol-forming substrate when used in the aerosol-forming substrate.

[0205] In this example, interval W is 4 mm, length H is 12 mm, H1 is 4 mm, H2 is 8 mm, and H3 is 2 mm. Length H is set to 12 mm to make the aerosol-forming substrate and the filler the same length in the longitudinal direction of an electronic cigarette cartridge.

[0206] In this manner, an electronic cigarette cartridge was obtained as in Example 1.

[0207] The filler or part of the filler did not fall off after use. Furthermore, when the heating element (211) was inserted, it could be mounted with a certain resistance regardless of the insertion direction, presumably because of the crimping, resulting in a stable inhale quality.

[0208] A description will be given of a manufacturing method preferable for a mode of Example 7. Fig. 15 schematically illustrates an example of an aerosol-forming substrate manufacturing apparatus (600). A sheet is supplied from a sheet supply device (610) having a rotatable bobbin to make predetermined cuts therein. A cut making device (620) such as a rotary cutter is used to make the cuts. Thereafter, the sheet with desired cuts is guided to an assembly device (630) such as a funnel that assembles sheets, where sheets are subjected to rolling, folding, compressing, or crimping, and assembled. In the assembly of sheets prepared in this way, the gap between the sheets serves as an air passage, and, preferably, the air passage is formed in the longitudinal direction of the electronic cigarette cartridge. In order to fill the wrapping member (151) with the sheet, wrapping paper is supplied from a wrapping member supply device (670) that stores a roll of wrapping paper as a wrapping member, and the sheets assembled by the assembly device (630) are wrapped. The wrapping process is performed by a wrapping device (640). The wrapping device (640) wraps the assembled sheets with the wrapping paper, applies an adhesive for the heat adhesion of the overlap of the ends of the wrapping paper, bonds the ends together by heating, and cools it. Thus, an assembly of sheets wrapped with the wrapping paper is continuously produced, and is formed into individual pieces of the aerosol forming substrate (110) by a cutting device (650). Although not illustrated, a three-roll mill is used to make the non-tobacco plant composition into a sheet on the upstream side of the sheet supply device (610).

[0209] The assembly of sheets wrapped with the wrapping member, which is produced by the assembly device (630) or the wrapping device (640), is guided from the assembly device (630) to the cutting device (650) by a belt drive device (660). A garniture belt is preferably used as the belt of the belt drive device (660).

[0210] Cuts are made on one and the other end sides of the aerosol-forming substrate (110) formed as described above, and the sheet is continuous in the entire area owing to non-cut portions.

[0211] As described above, the present invention has the following effects:
The heating element (211) can be stably inserted into the electronic cigarette cartridge. This results in a stable inhale quality, and prevents the heating element (211) from being damaged as well as preventing the electronic cigarette cartridge from being damaged.

[0212] Moreover, it is possible to prevent the filler of the aerosol-forming substrate from falling off after the electronic cigarette cartridge is used.

[0213] While certain embodiments of the invention have been described, it is to be understood that the invention is not to be limited to the disclosed embodiments, but on the contrary, is intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements included within the scope of the appended claims. Furthermore, various changes, modifications, and combinations may be made, as would be apparent to those skilled in the art, without departing from the spirit of the invention.

Industrial Applicability

[0214] For example, the electronic cigarette cartridge (100) of the embodiment is suitably used as a cartridge for an electronic cigarette that includes a heating element.

Explanation of Symbols

[0215] 

10

Upstream side (one end side)

20

Downstream side (other end side)

100

Electronic cigarette cartridge

110

Aerosol-forming substrate

111

Filler

130

Transfer member

140

Mouthpiece

150

Wrapping sheet

151

Wrapping member

170

Lid

180

Partition member

200

Electronic cigarette body

210

Insertion portion

211

Heating element

300

Support element

600

Aerosol-forming substrate manufacturing apparatus

610

Sheet supply device

620

Cut making device

630

Assembly device

640

Wrapping device

650

Cutting device

660

Belt drive device

670

Wrapping member supply device

160

Side

112

Approximate central axis

F

Cut

W

Interval between cuts

D1 to D3

Cut

G1 to G3

Cut

B

Center part of aerosol forming substrate C Peripheral part of aerosol forming substrate

Claims

1. An electronic cigarette filler, comprising a sheet-like member, wherein
assuming that the longitudinal direction of an electronic cigarette is represented as first direction, and an in-plane direction perpendicular thereto is represented as second direction, a cut is made in the sheet-like member along the first direction.

2. The electronic cigarette filler according to claim 1, wherein the cut is made to a depth that does not penetrate the sheet member.

3. The electronic cigarette filler according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the sheet-like member is rectangular as a whole and has a plurality of said cuts in one side thereof.

4. The electronic cigarette filler according to claim 3, wherein the cuts include first cuts that are made along the first direction from one side of the sheet-like member extending in the second direction.

5. The electronic cigarette filler according to claim 4, wherein
the cuts include second cuts that are made along the first direction from another side of the sheet-like member, and
the first cuts and the second cuts are arranged alternately in the second direction.

6. The electronic cigarette filler according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the cut is arranged such that the length of first direction component thereof is longer than the length of second direction component.

7. The electronic cigarette filler according to any one of claims 1 to 6, which is fixed to the inside of a wrapping member.

8. The electronic cigarette filler according to any one of claims 1 to 7, which is filled so as to form an air passage in the first direction.

9. The electronic cigarette filler according to claim 8, wherein the sheet-like member is folded or rolled to form the air passage.

10. The electronic cigarette filler according to any one of claims 1 to 9, having an end shape the area of which is substantially uniform as viewed from one end.

11. The electronic cigarette filler according to any one of claims 1 to 9, having an end shape the area of which increases from center to periphery as viewed from one end.

12. The electronic cigarette filler according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein
cuts are provided at a predetermined interval in the second direction,
the sheet-like member is continuous in the entire area thereof by a non-cut portion, and
when the sheet-like member is used for an aerosol-forming substrate, the cuts are provided on one end side and another end side of the aerosol-forming substrate.

13.  An electronic cigarette cartridge, comprising the electronic cigarette filler according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

Drawing