RU2792030C1 - Aerosol generating device comprising separate air inlets - Google Patents

Abstract

FIELD: aerosol-generating device.

SUBSTANCE: aerosol-generating device comprises a cavity for receiving an aerosol-generating device containing an aerosol-forming substrate; a first air inlet fluidly connected to the said cavity and allowing ambient air to be drawn into the said cavity; and a second air inlet fluidly connected to the said cavity and allowing ambient air to be drawn into the said cavity. The aerosol-generating device also comprises airflow control means for controlling one or both of the airflows through the first air inlet and the second air inlet. The airflow control means is configured to control the cross-sectional area of one or both of the first air inlet and the second air inlet. Means for regulating the airflow are made in the form of a perforated element. Each perforation hole of the perforated element corresponds to a different cross-sectional area. The perforated element contains a first set of perforations and a second set of perforations. The first set of perforations corresponds to the first air inlet, and the second set of perforations corresponds to the second air inlet.

EFFECT: possibility of improving aerosol generation.

15 cl, 6 dwg

Description

The present invention relates to an aerosol generating device.

It is known to provide an aerosol generating device for generating inhaled vapor. Such devices can heat the aerosol-forming substrate to a temperature at which one or more components of the aerosol-forming substrate are vaporized without burning the aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-generating substrate may be provided as part of an aerosol-generating article. The aerosol generating article may be in the form of a rod for inserting the aerosol generating article into a cavity, such as a heating chamber, of the aerosol generating device. A heating element may be provided in or around the heating chamber for heating the aerosol-generating substrate after insertion of the aerosol-generating article into the heating chamber of the aerosol-generating device. The heating element may be a resistive heating element. Recently it has been proposed to use induction heating to heat the aerosol-forming substrate. The flow of air through the aerosol-forming substrate may be non-uniform. This may not be desirable. The flow of air entering the specified cavity may be non-uniform.

WO 2019096983 A1 describes a device for receiving an article containing an aerosol material and a ventilation area, wherein the aerosol material in said device can be heated to vaporize at least one component of said aerosol material in order to create an aerosol flow for inhalation by the user. The device comprises a housing configured to insert a product for heating; a first opening in the housing to allow air to pass into the housing when the user puffs on the device or article; and a first airflow control device configured, when used when the product is inserted into the housing, to adjust the amount of airflow through the first opening in the housing to control the amount of airflow into the product through the ventilation region. A method for controlling ventilation of an article inserted into an aerosol material heating device is also described. In addition, a system is described that includes an article containing an aerosol material body and a device in which the aerosol material of the article can be heated.

It would be desirable to have an aerosol generating device with improved aerosol generation. It would be desirable to have an aerosol generating device with improved airflow. It would be desirable to have an aerosol generating device with a more uniform air flow.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, an aerosol-generating device is provided, comprising a cavity for receiving an aerosol-generating article containing an aerosol-forming substrate. Said device further comprises a first air inlet fluidly connected to said cavity and allowing ambient air to be drawn into said cavity. Said device further comprises a second air inlet fluidly connected to said cavity and allowing ambient air to be drawn into said cavity. The aerosol generating device further comprises air flow control means for regulating one or both air flows through the first air inlet and the second air inlet.

By controlling one or both of the air flows through the first air inlet and the second air inlet, the aerosol generation can be improved. It is possible to improve the air flow through the aerosol generating device. Separate airflow passages may be provided, as detailed below, allowing the airflow through said separate airflow passages to be optimally controlled.

The aerosol generating device may further comprise an induction heating structure. The induction heating structure may include an inductor and a current collector. The current-collecting assembly may comprise a central current-collecting structure located centrally within said cavity and a peripheral current-collecting structure located at a distance from and around the central current-collecting structure.

The aerosol generating article is preferably in the form of a hollow aerosol generating article, so that the aerosol generating article can be placed between the central current collector structure and the peripheral current collector structure. The aerosol-generating article may comprise a substrate portion comprising a first tubular layer of aerosol-forming substrate forming an inner layer and a second tubular layer of aerosol-forming substrate located around the first tubular layer of aerosol-forming substrate and forming an outer layer. The central current-collecting structure may be configured to heat the first tubular layer of the aerosol-forming substrate. The peripheral current-collecting structure may be configured to heat the second tubular layer of the aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol generating article will be described in more detail below.

The first air inlet may be configured to be fluidly connected to the central part of said cavity. The second air inlet can be made with the possibility of fluid communication with the peripheral part of the specified cavity. The central current-collecting structure may be located in the central part of said cavity. The central part of said cavity may be located in the hollow volume of the central current-collecting structure. The peripheral current-collecting structure may be located inside or around the peripheral part of said cavity.

The aerosol generating device may comprise a first air flow channel fluidly connecting the first air inlet to the central part of said cavity. Between the first air inlet and the base of the central part of the cavity, the first channel for air flow can be located. The first air flow channel may fluidly connect the first air inlet to a cavity base located upstream of said cavity. The first air inlet may have an extension direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generating device.

The aerosol generating device may comprise a second air flow channel fluidly connecting the second air inlet to the peripheral part of said cavity. The second air inlet has a circular cross section. The second air inlet may have a rectangular cross section. The second air inlet may have an oval or elliptical cross section. The second air inlet may have an extension direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generating device.

Said air flow control means may be configured to control the cross-sectional area of one or both of the first air inlet and the second air inlet. One or both of the first air inlet and the second air inlet may have a circular cross section. One or both of the first air inlet and the second air inlet may have a rectangular cross section. One or both of the first air inlet and the second air inlet may have an oval or elliptical cross section. The cross-sectional area of one or both of the first air inlet and the second air inlet may determine the volume of air drawn into the device per unit time. Therefore, the cross-sectional area of one or both of the first air inlet and the second air inlet may determine the air flow through one or both of the first air flow channel and the second air flow channel. The cross-sectional area of the first air inlet can determine the flow of air through the central part of said cavity and thus determine the generation of aerosol by the central current-collecting structure in said central part. The cross-sectional area of the second air inlet can determine the flow of air through the peripheral part of said cavity and thus determine the generation of aerosol by the peripheral current-collecting structure in said peripheral part.

Means for regulating the air flow can be made in the form of a perforated element. Each perforation of the perforated element may correspond to a different cross-sectional area. The aerosol control means may be perforated. The aerosol control means may comprise openings. The aerosol control means may include air holes. Each perforation may have a different cross-sectional area. Each perforation may allow a different flow of air to flow through a respective first air inlet or second air inlet. Each perforation may have a round, oval, elliptical, or rectangular cross section.

The perforated element can be made in the form of a perforated ring. The perforated ring may be rotatable and thus the perforations are aligned with one or both of the first air inlet and the second air inlet. The perforated ring may be rotatable by a predetermined rotation angle. The perforated ring can be made with the possibility of repeated rotation. Each rotation of the perforated ring may represent a rotation through a predetermined rotation angle. The perforated ring may include holding elements for holding the perforated ring after rotation. The retaining elements can be made in the form of grooves, nuts or protrusions. The holding elements may be configured to interact with the respective holding elements of the aerosol generating device. Each rotation of the perforated ring may cause one perforation of the perforated ring to align with one or both of the first air inlet and the second air inlet. Each rotation of the perforated ring may correspond to a desired air flow through one or both of the first air inlet and the second air inlet.

The perforated ring may be positioned around a portion of the circumference of the aerosol generating device. The perforated ring may be located around the outer casing of the aerosol generating device. The perforated ring may be located at least partially around the outer casing of the aerosol generating device. The perforated ring may completely surround the outer casing of the aerosol generating device. The perforated ring may be arranged in an annular configuration around the outer casing of the aerosol generating device. The perforated ring may have a circular cross section. The perforated ring may be tubular.

The perforated ring may be rotatably secured around a housing portion of the aerosol generating device. The perforated ring may be pivotally secured around a portion of the outer casing of the aerosol generating device. The perforated ring may be part of the outer casing of the aerosol generating device. By turning the perforated ring, the user can control the flow of air through one or more of the first air inlet and the second air inlet. The perforated ring can be installed in the guide elements of the outer casing of the aerosol generating device. In order to facilitate said predetermined rotation of the rotary ring within the predetermined angle of rotation, the outer casing of the aerosol generating device may comprise retaining elements. The retaining elements can be made in the form of grooves, nuts or protrusions. The perforated ring may contain appropriate retaining elements. The retaining members of the outer casing of the aerosol generating device may be male retainers and the retainers of the perforated ring may be female retainers or vice versa. The retaining elements of the outer casing of the aerosol generating device and the retaining elements of the perforated ring may be configured to interact with each other, preferably by means of a snap engagement. The perforated ring may be rotatable by applying a predetermined rotation force. Said predetermined pivot force may be selected to overcome the interaction between the containment elements of the outer casing of the aerosol generating device and the containment elements of the perforated ring.

The air flow control means may be configured to simultaneously control the cross-sectional area of the first air inlet and the second air inlet. Simultaneously adjusting the cross-sectional area of the first air inlet and the second air inlet makes it possible to optimize the air flow through the first air flow channel and the second air flow channel, and thus the aerosol generation is improved. The air flow control means may be configured to simultaneously control the cross-sectional area of the first air inlet and the second air inlet by containing predetermined pairs of cross-sectional areas of the first air inlet and the second air inlet, respectively.

The perforated element may include a first set of perforations and a second set of perforations. The first set of perforations may correspond to the first air inlet, and the second set of perforations may correspond to the second air inlet. The first set of perforations may be in the form of a first row of perforations. The second set of perforations may be in the form of a second row of perforations. The first row of perforations may be separate from the second row of perforations. The first set of perforations may extend at least partially around the circumference of the perforated element. The first of the perforations may extend at least partially around the circumference of the outer casing of the aerosol generating device. The second set of perforations may extend at least partially around the circumference of the perforated element. The second set of perforations may extend at least partially around the circumference of the outer casing of the aerosol generating device. The first set of perforations may be located downstream or proximal to the second set of perforations. The first of the perforations and the second set of perforations may be adjacent to each other. The first set of perforations may be part of a perforated ring. The second set of perforations may be part of a perforated ring. Each perforation of the first set of perforations may correspond to a cross-sectional area of the first air inlet. Each perforation of the second set of perforations may correspond to a cross-sectional area of the second air inlet. By rotating the perforated ring, each perforation of the first perforations can be aligned with the first air inlet. By turning the perforated ring, each perforation of the second set of perforations can be aligned with the second air inlet. The term "alignment" may refer to the placement of a respective perforation over a respective air inlet. The perforation may be provided directly around the air inlet such that the effective cross-sectional area of the air inlet is determined by the cross-sectional area of the perforation. The cross-sectional area of the air inlet can be reduced to the cross-sectional area of the perforation by positioning the perforation above the air inlet.

Each pair of perforations from the first set of perforations and the second set of perforations may correspond to a predetermined ratio of air flow through the first air inlet and through the second air inlet. The first set of perforations and the second set of perforations may be part of a perforated ring. Rotation of the perforated ring may cause rotation of the first set of perforations and the second set of perforations. The first ring of perforations may be rotatable independently of the second set of perforations. Preferably, however, both of the first ring of perforations and the second ring of perforations are simultaneously rotatable as a result of rotation of said rotary ring. As a consequence, rotation of the rotary ring allows a particular perforation of the first set of perforations to be positioned above the first air inlet and a particular perforation of the second set of perforations to be positioned above the second air inlet. Thus, a pair of specific perforations of the first set of perforations and the second set of perforations define a specific ratio of air flows through the first air inlet and through the second air inlet. The rotary ring may include a plurality of pairs of perforations from a first set of perforations and a second set of perforations corresponding to a specific ratio of air flow through the first air inlet and through the second air inlet. Each pair of perforations corresponding to a particular airflow ratio may be different from the others. In particular, the air flow ratio may be different for each pair of perforations. For example, one pair of perforations may provide more airflow through the first air inlet compared to airflow through the second air inlet. In this example, the corresponding perforation of the first set of perforations may have a cross-sectional area larger than the corresponding perforation of the second set of perforations. The second pair of perforations may provide equal airflows through the first air inlet and through the second air inlet. The third pair of perforations may provide more airflow through the second air inlet compared to airflow through the first air inlet. These examples are illustrative only. Preferably, a plurality of pairs of perforations may be provided. Each pair of perforations can be marked. The air flow control means may be provided, preferably printed, with a symbol, a description or a number, to enable the user to identify each pair of perforations. For each pair of perforations, a symbol, description, or number may be provided indicating the airflow ratio for that pair of perforations.

The means for regulating the air flow may be in the form of mechanical means controlled by the user. The air flow control means may be rotatable around the outer casing of the aerosol generating device. Turning can be facilitated by the user grasping the air flow control means and turning the air flow control means.

The aerosol generating device may further comprise a controller. The means for regulating the air flow may be in the form of electrically controlled means. The controller may be configured to control said electrically controlled means. The aerosol generating device may comprise an engine. The engine may be configured to move the air flow control means. The motor may be configured to rotate the air flow control means. The engine may be configured to move the air flow control means in response to control of the engine by the controller. The aerosol generating device may include a user interface such as a button. The user interface may be designed in such a way that the user is able to control the movement of the air flow control means.

As an alternative to the air flow control means located around the outer casing of the aerosol generating device, the air flow control means may be located inside the casing of the aerosol generating device. This embodiment may be particularly advantageous if movement of the air flow control means is electrically operated rather than manually operated by the user. In this case, the air flow control means may still be provided in the form of a perforated ring, as described herein. The air flow control means may be located in close proximity to the outer casing of the aerosol generating device within the outer casing in the radial direction.

The air flow control means may comprise a first valve, preferably a microelectronic valve, configured to control the cross-sectional area of the first air inlet. This embodiment may be provided as an alternative to or in addition to the perforated ring air flow control means. In particular, as an alternative, this embodiment may allow the cross-sectional area of the first air inlet to be adjusted without the need to provide a rotary perforated ring. The first valve may be configured to gradually change the cross-sectional area of the first air inlet. The first valve may be configured to be controlled by a controller. The first valve may include a diaphragm, preferably an iris diaphragm. The first valve may be an electronically controlled valve. The cross-sectional area of the first valve may be electronically adjustable.

The air flow control means may further comprise a second valve, preferably a microelectronic valve, configured to control the cross-sectional area of the second air inlet. This embodiment may be provided as an alternative to or in addition to the perforated ring air flow control means. In particular, as an alternative, this embodiment may allow the cross-sectional area of the second air inlet to be adjusted without the need to provide a rotary perforated ring. The second valve may be configured to gradually change the cross-sectional area of the second air inlet. The second valve may be configured to be controlled by a controller. The second valve may include a diaphragm, preferably an iris diaphragm. The second valve may be an electronically controlled valve. The cross-sectional area of the second valve may be electronically adjustable.

The first air inlet may be configured to be fluidly connected to the central part of said cavity. The second air inlet can be made with the possibility of fluid communication with the peripheral part of the specified cavity. The central part of said cavity may be located inside the central current-collecting structure. The central current-collecting structure may be hollow. The central current collector structure may include at least two central current collectors forming a cavity between the central current collectors. The hollow configuration of the central susceptor structure allows air to enter the interior of the hollow central susceptor structure. Between said at least two central pantographs, gaps can be provided. As a consequence, it is possible to create an air flow through the central current-collecting structure. The air flow can be created in a direction running parallel to or along the longitudinal central axis of said cavity. Preferably, said gap makes it possible to create an air flow in the lateral direction. The lateral air flow enables aerosol generation due to contact between the incoming air and the aerosol-generating substrate of the aerosol-generating article through the gaps between the central current collectors. The heating of the central current collector structure upon insertion into the cavity of the aerosol generating article enables the generation of aerosol within the hollow central current collector structure. The central current-collecting structure may be configured to heat the first tubular layer of the aerosol-generating substrate of the aerosol-generating article. The central current-collecting structure may be configured to heat the interior of the aerosol-generating article. The aerosol may be drawn in a downstream direction through the hollow central current collector structure.

The central part of said cavity may be the internal volume of the central current-collecting structure. The central part of said cavity may correspond to the volume of the central current-collecting structure. The central part of said cavity may have a cylindrical shape. The central part of said cavity may be elongated. The central part of said cavity may extend along the longitudinal central axis of the cavity. The outer diameter of the central part of said cavity may correspond to the inner diameter of the substrate part of the aerosol generating article.

The central part may have a base. The base may be located at the upstream or downstream end of the central portion. The first air inlet may be fluidly connected to the base of the central portion. The central part may contain one or more air holes to allow air to flow into this central part.

The peripheral part of said cavity may be located around the central current-collecting structure and inside the peripheral current-collecting structure. When an aerosol generating article is inserted into said cavity, the substrate portion of the aerosol generating article may be located in a peripheral portion of said cavity. The peripheral part of said cavity may be tubular. The inner diameter of the peripheral portion may correspond to the inner diameter of the substrate portion of the aerosol generating article. The outer diameter of the peripheral portion may correspond to the outer diameter of the substrate portion of the aerosol generating article. The peripheral current-collecting structure may be located around the peripheral part of said cavity. The peripheral current-collecting structure may be located in the peripheral part of said cavity.

The first air inlet may be located at a distance from the second air inlet. The first air inlet may be fluidly separated from the second air inlet. The first air flow channel may be located at a distance from the second air flow channel. The first air flow channel may be fluid-separate from the second air flow channel.

The first air inlet and the second air inlet may be fluidly separated upstream of said cavity. Further downstream of the first air inlet, a first air flow path may lead to said cavity. Further downstream of the second air inlet, a second air flow path may lead to said cavity. The first air flow path and the second air flow path may be fluidly separated upstream of said cavity. The air from the first air flow path and the air from the second air flow path may be mixed in said cavity to provide one or both of improving aerosol formation and cooling the generated aerosol.

The first air inlet and the second air inlet can be configured to be separately controlled by air flow control means. The diameter of one or both of the first air inlet and the second air inlet can be controlled separately by the air flow control means. The flow rate through one or both of the first air inlet and the second air inlet can be controlled separately by the air flow control means.

The ratio of the air flow in the first air inlet and in the second air inlet can be changed by means of air flow control while keeping the total air flow constant. A change in air flow through the first air inlet may reverse the change in air flow through the second air inlet and vice versa.

The aerosol generating device may include a power source. The power supply may be a direct current (DC) power supply. The power source may be electrically connected to the inductor. In one embodiment, the power supply is a DC power supply having a DC supply voltage in the range of about 2.5 Volts to about 4.5 Volts and a DC supply current in the range of about 1 Amp to about 10 Amp (corresponding to an output DC power in the range of about 2.5 watts to about 45 watts). The aerosol generating device may preferably comprise a direct current to alternating current (DC/AC) converter for converting the direct current supplied by the DC power supply into alternating current. The DC/AC converter may include a Class D, Class C, or Class E power amplifier. The power supply may be configured to supply AC.

The power source may be a battery such as a rechargeable lithium ion battery. In an alternative embodiment, the power supply may be another type of charge storage device, such as a capacitor. The power supply may need to be recharged. The power supply may have a capacity that allows sufficient energy to be stored for one or more uses of the aerosol generating device. For example, the power supply may have sufficient capacity to provide continuous aerosol generation for a period of approximately six minutes, which is typical of the time required to smoke a conventional cigarette, or for a period of multiples of six minutes. In another example, the power supply may have sufficient capacity to allow for a given number of puffs or individual activations.

The power supply for the inductor may be configured to operate at high frequency. Class E power amplifier is preferred for high frequency operation. In the context of this document, the term "high frequency oscillatory current" means an oscillatory current with a frequency of 500 kilohertz to 30 megahertz. The high frequency oscillating current may have a frequency of about 1 megahertz to about 30 megahertz, preferably about 1 megahertz to about 10 megahertz, and more preferably about 5 megahertz to about 8 megahertz.

In another embodiment, the switching frequency of the power amplifier may be in the lower kilohertz range, such as 100 kHz to 400 kHz. In embodiments using a Class D or C power amplifier, switching frequencies in the specified kilohertz range are particularly preferred. The switching transistor will have a current rise time, a current fall time, an off time, and an on time. Therefore, if a set of two or four (working in pairs) switching transistors is used in a class D power amplifier, then the switching frequency in the lower kilohertz range will be chosen taking into account the necessary turn-off time of one transistor before current rise occurs on the other transistor to avoid destroying the power amplifier.

The induction heating structure may be configured to generate heat by induction. The induction heating structure contains an inductor and a current collector. One inductor may be provided. One current-collecting node may be provided. Preferably, more than one inductor is provided. A first inductor and a second inductor may be provided. Preferably, more than one current collector assembly is provided. As described herein, the susceptor assembly includes a central susceptor structure and a peripheral susceptor structure. The inductor may surround the current collector. The first inductor may surround the first area of the current collector assembly. The second coil may surround the second area of the current collector assembly. The area surrounded by the inductor may be in the form of a heating zone, as described in more detail below.

The aerosol generating device may comprise a flow concentrator. The flux concentrator can be made of any material having a high magnetic permeability. The flow concentrator may be positioned to surround the induction heating assembly. The flux concentrator can concentrate the magnetic field lines in the inner region of the flux concentrator, thereby increasing the heating effect of the current collector by means of the inductor.

The aerosol generating device may include a controller. The controller may be electrically connected to the inductor. The controller may be electrically connected to the first inductor and to the second inductor. The controller may be configured to control the electric current supplied to the inductor(s) and thus control the strength of the magnetic field generated by the inductor(s). The controller may be configured to control the air flow control means. The controller may be configured to control movement of the air flow control means. The controller may be configured to control a motor to move the air flow control means. The controller may be configured to rotate the air flow control means. The controller may be configured to rotate the air flow control means between specific positions. Each particular position of the air flow control means may correspond to the placement of perforations of the air flow control means above the first and second air inlets to set the air flow ratio between the first and second air inlets. The controller may be configured to control one or both of the first valve and the second valve. The controller may be configured to control the change in the cross-sectional area of the first valve. The controller may be configured to control the change in the cross-sectional area of the second valve.

The power supply and controller may be connected to an inductor, preferably the first and second inductors, and be configured to supply an alternating electrical current to each of the inductors independently of one another such that, in use, each of the inductors generates an alternating magnetic field. . This means that the power supply and the controller are capable of supplying alternating electrical current separately to the first inductor, separately to the second inductor, or simultaneously to both inductors. This makes it possible to achieve different heating profiles. The heating profile may refer to the temperature of the respective inductor. For heating to a high temperature, an alternating electric current can be applied to both inductors at the same time. For heating to a lower temperature, or heating only a portion of the aerosol-forming substrate of the aerosol-generating article, an alternating current may be applied to only the first inductor. Then an alternating electric current can only be supplied to the second inductor.

The controller can be connected to inductors and power supply. The controller may be configured to control the supply of power to the inductors from a power source. The controller may comprise a microprocessor, which may be a programmable microprocessor, a microcontroller, or an application specific integrated chip (ASIC) or other electronic circuit capable of providing control. The controller may contain additional electronic components. The controller may be configured to control the supply of current to the inductor(s). The current may be applied to the inductor(s) continuously after activation of the aerosol generating device, or it may be applied intermittently, for example from puff to puff.

The power source and controller may be configured to independently vary the amplitude of the alternating electrical current supplied to each of the first inductor and the second inductor. With this arrangement, the strength of the magnetic fields generated by the first and second inductors can be independently varied by varying the amplitude of the current supplied to each coil. This makes it possible to promote a conveniently variable heating effect. For example, the magnitude of the current applied to one or both of the coils may be increased during startup to shorten the initiation time of the aerosol generating device.

The controller may be configured to interrupt the supply of current to the input side of the DC/AC converter. This makes it possible to control the power supplied to the inductor(s) using standard duty cycle control methods.

The first inductor of the aerosol generating device may form part of the first circuit. The first circuit may be a resonant circuit. The first circuit may have a first resonant frequency. The first circuit may include a first capacitor. The second inductor may form part of the second circuit. The second circuit may be a resonant circuit. The second circuit may have a second resonant frequency. The first resonant frequency may be different from the second resonant frequency. The first resonant frequency may be equal to the second resonant frequency. The second circuit may include a second capacitor. The resonant frequency of a resonant circuit depends on the inductance of the corresponding inductor and the capacitance of the corresponding capacitor.

The cavity of the aerosol generating device may have an open end into which an aerosol generating article is inserted. The open end may be a proximal end. The cavity may have a closed end opposite the open end. The closed end may be the base of said cavity. The closed end may be closed except that air holes located in the base may be provided. The base of said cavity may be flat. The base of said cavity may be round. The base of said cavity may be located upstream of said cavity. The open end may be located downstream of said cavity. Said cavity may be elongated. Said cavity may have a longitudinal central axis. The longitudinal direction may be a direction passing between the open and closed ends along the longitudinal central axis. The longitudinal axis of said cavity may be parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generating device.

Said cavity can be made in the form of a heating chamber. Said cavity may have a cylindrical shape. Said cavity may have a hollow cylindrical shape. Said cavity may have a circular cross section. Said cavity may have an elliptical or rectangular cross section. Said cavity may have an inner diameter corresponding to the outer diameter of the aerosol generating article.

In the context of this document, the term "length" refers to the major dimension in the longitudinal direction of an aerosol generating device, an aerosol generating article, or a component of an aerosol generating device or an aerosol generating article.

As used herein, the term "width" refers to the major transverse dimension of an aerosol generating device, aerosol generating article, or a component of an aerosol generating device or aerosol generating article, at a particular location along its length. The term "thickness" refers to the dimension in the transverse direction perpendicular to the width.

In the context of this document, the term "aerosol-forming substrate" refers to a substrate capable of releasing volatile compounds that can form an aerosol. Such volatile compounds may be released as a result of heating the aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-generating substrate is part of the aerosol-generating article.

In the context of this document, the term "aerosol-generating article" refers to an article containing an aerosol-forming substrate capable of releasing volatile compounds that can form an aerosol. For example, an aerosol generating article may be an article that generates an aerosol directly inhaled by a user who draws or puffs on a mouthpiece at the proximal or user end of the system. The aerosol generating article may be disposable. An article containing an aerosol-forming tobacco-containing substrate is referred to as a tobacco stick. The aerosol generating article may be configured to be inserted into the cavity of the aerosol generating device.

In the context of this document, the term "aerosol generating device" refers to a device that interacts with an aerosol generating article to generate an aerosol.

In the context of this document, the term "aerosol generating system" refers to the combination of an aerosol generating article described and illustrated later in this document and an aerosol generating device described and illustrated later in this document. In said system, an aerosol generating article and an aerosol generating device cooperate to generate an inhalable aerosol.

In the context of this document, the term "proximal" refers to the user end or mouth end of the aerosol generating device, and the term "far" refers to the end opposite the proximal end. With respect to said cavity, the term "proximal" refers to the region closest to the open end of said cavity, and the term "far" refers to the region closest to the closed end.

In the context of this document, the terms "upstream" and "downstream" are used to describe the relative positions of the components or parts of the components of the aerosol generating device relative to the direction in which the user puffs on the aerosol generating device during its use.

In the context of this document, the term "current collector" means an electrically conductive element that is heated by the action of a changing magnetic field. This may be the result of eddy currents induced in the current collector and/or hysteresis losses. During use, the current-collecting assembly is located in thermal contact with the aerosol-forming substrate of the aerosol-generating article placed in the cavity of the aerosol-generating device, or in close thermal proximity thereto. As a result, the aerosol-forming substrate is heated by the current collector so that an aerosol is formed.

The current-collecting assembly may be shaped to match the shape of the corresponding inductor. The current collector may have a smaller diameter than the corresponding inductor so that the current collector can be placed inside the inductor.

The term "hot zone" refers to that portion of said cavity along its length which is at least partially surrounded by inductors such that a current-collecting assembly located in or around the hot zone can be inductively heated by the inductors. The heating zone may include a first heating zone and a second heating zone. The heating zone may be divided into a first heating zone and a second heating zone. The first heating zone may be surrounded by a first inductor. The second heating zone may be surrounded by a second inductor. More than two heating zones can be provided. A plurality of heating zones may be provided. An inductor can be provided for each heating zone. One or more inductors may be movable to surround the heat zones and heat the heat zones in each segment.

The term "coil" in the context of this document is interchangeable with the terms "inductor", "induction coil" or "inductor" throughout the document. The coil may be a energized (primary) coil connected to a power source.

The heating effect can be varied by independently controlling the first and second inductors. The heating effect can be varied by providing the first and second inductors with different configurations such that the magnetic field generated by each coil at the same supplied current is different from the other. For example, the heating effect can be varied by making the first and second inductors of wires of different types so that the magnetic field generated by each coil at the same supplied current is different from the other. The heating effect can be varied by independently controlling the first and second inductors and by providing the first and second inductors with different configurations such that the magnetic field generated by each coil at the same supplied current is different from the other.

Each coil (s) of inductance is (are) located at least partially around the heating zone. The inductor can only partially extend around the circumference of said cavity in the region of the heating zone. The inductor can pass around the entire circumference of the specified cavity in the region of the heating zone.

The inductor(s) may (may) be a planar coil(s) located(s) partly around the circumference of said cavity or around the entire circumference of said cavity. In the context of this document, the term "planar coil" means a coil wound in a spiral, the winding axis of which is perpendicular to the plane in which the coil lies. A planar coil can lie in a flat Euclidean plane. The planar coil may lie in a curved plane. For example, a planar coil may be wound in a flat Euclidean plane and subsequently bent to lie in a curved plane.

Preferably, the inductor(s) is (are) helical (helical). The inductor may be helical and may be wound around a central free space in which said cavity is located. The inductor can be located around the entire circumference of the specified cavity.

The coil(s) of inductance may(may) be helical(s) and concentric(s). The first and second inductors may have different diameters. The first and second inductors may be helical and concentric, and they may have different diameters. In such embodiments, the smaller of said two coils may be positioned at least partially within the larger of the first and second inductors.

The turns of the first inductor may be electrically isolated from the turns of the second coil.

The aerosol generating device may further comprise one or more additional inductors. For example, the aerosol generating device may further comprise third and fourth inductors, preferably associated with additional current collectors, in turn preferably associated with different heating zones.

Preferably, the first and second inductors have different inductance values. The first inductor may have a first inductance, and the second inductor may have a second inductance less than the first inductance. This means that the magnetic fields generated by the first and second inductors will have different strengths for a given current. This makes it possible to promote different heating effects with the first and second inductors by applying the same current amplitude to both coils. This makes it possible to reduce the control requirements of the aerosol generating device. In the case of independent activation of the first and second inductors, the inductor with a higher inductance may be activated at a different time from the activation of the inductor with a lower inductance. For example, a higher inductor may be activated during operation, such as during a puff, and a lower inductor may be activated between sessions, such as between puffs. This provides the advantage of being able to help maintain an elevated temperature within said cavity between uses without requiring the same power as during normal use. Such "preheating" makes it possible to reduce the time required for said cavity to return to the desired operating temperature upon resumption of operation of the aerosol generating device. In an alternative embodiment, the first inductor and the second inductor may have the same inductance values.

The first and second inductors may be made of the same type of wire. Preferably, the first inductor is made of a first type of wire and the second inductor is made of a second type of wire different from the first type. For example, the compositions of the wires or their cross-sections may differ. Thus, the inductance of the first and second inductors may be different even if the overall geometry of the coils is the same. This makes it possible to use the same or similar geometries for the first and second inductors. This makes it possible to promote a more compact arrangement.

The first wire type may comprise a first wire material, and the second type wire may comprise a second wire material different from the first wire material. The electrical properties of the first and second wire materials may be different. For example, the first type of wire may have a first resistance, and the second type of wire may have a second resistance different from the first resistance.

Suitable materials for the inductor(s) include copper, aluminium, silver and steel. Preferably, the inductor is made of copper or aluminum.

If the first inductor is made of a first type wire and the second inductor is made of a second type wire different from the first type wire, the first type wire may have a different cross section than the second type wire. The first type wire may have a first cross section and the second type wire may have a second cross section different from the first cross section. For example, the first type of wire may have a first cross-sectional shape, and the second type of wire may have a second cross-sectional shape different from the first cross-sectional shape. The first type wire may have a first thickness, and the second type wire may have a second thickness different from the first thickness. The cross-sectional shape and thickness of the wires of the first and second types may differ.

The current collector assembly may be made of any material that can be inductively heated to a temperature sufficient to aerosolize the aerosol-forming substrate. The following examples and features relating to the susceptor assembly may apply to one or both of the central susceptor structure and the peripheral susceptor structure. Suitable materials for the current collector assembly include graphite, molybdenum, silicon carbide, stainless steel, niobium, aluminum, nickel, nickel-containing compounds, titanium, and metal material composites. Preferred current collector assemblies contain metal or carbon. Preferably, the current-collecting assemblies may comprise a ferromagnetic material such as ferritic iron, a ferromagnetic alloy such as ferromagnetic steel or stainless steel, ferromagnetic particles and ferrite, or they may be composed of the foregoing. A suitable current collector assembly may be made of or comprise aluminum. The current collector may contain greater than 5 percent, preferably greater than 20 percent, more preferably greater than 50 percent, or greater than 90 percent ferromagnetic or paramagnetic materials. Preferred susceptor assemblies may be heated to temperatures in excess of 250 degrees Celsius.

The current collector can be made from a single layer of material. Said one layer of material may be a layer of steel.

The current-collecting assembly may comprise a non-metallic core with a metal layer located on the non-metallic core. For example, the current collector may include metal tracks formed on the outer surface of the ceramic core or substrate.

The current collector can be made from a layer of austenitic steel. On said layer of austenitic steel, one or more layers of stainless steel may be placed. For example, the current collector assembly may be made of an austenitic steel layer having a stainless steel layer on each of its top and bottom surfaces. The current collector assembly may comprise one current collector material. The current collector assembly may include a first current collector material and a second current collector material. The first current-collecting material may be positioned in close physical contact with the second current-collecting material. The first and second current collector materials may be in intimate contact to form an integral current collector. In some embodiments, the first current collector material is stainless steel and the second current collector material is nickel. The current-collecting assembly may have a two-layer structure. The current-collecting units can be made of a stainless steel layer and a nickel layer.

Intimate contact between the first current-collecting material and the second current-collecting material may be achieved by any suitable means. For example, the second current collector material may be applied by plating, deposited, coated, applied by cladding, or welded to the current collector material. Preferred methods include electroplating, electroplating and cladding.

The second current collector material may have a Curie temperature below 500 degrees Celsius. The first current collector material can be used mainly for heating the current collector when this current collector is placed in an alternating electromagnetic field. Any suitable material may be used. For example, the first current collector material may be aluminum, or it may be a ferrous metal such as stainless steel. The second current collector material is preferably used primarily to indicate that the current collector has reached a particular temperature, and that temperature is the Curie temperature of the second current collector material. The Curie temperature of the second current collector material can be used to control the temperature of the entire current collector during operation. Thus, the Curie temperature of the second current collector material must be below the ignition temperature of the aerosol-forming substrate. Suitable materials for the second current collector material may include nickel and certain nickel alloys. The Curie temperature of the second current collector material may preferably be chosen to be below 400 degrees Celsius, preferably below 380 degrees Celsius or below 360 degrees Celsius. Preferably, the second current collector material is a magnetic material chosen to have substantially the same Curie temperature as the desired maximum heating temperature. In other words, it is preferable that the Curie temperature of the second current collector material is approximately the same as the temperature to which the current collector must be heated in order to generate an aerosol from the aerosol-forming substrate. The Curie temperature of the second current collector material may be, for example, in the range of 200 degrees Celsius to 400 degrees Celsius, or in the range of 250 degrees Celsius to 360 degrees Celsius. In some embodiments, it may be preferable to layer the first current-collecting material and the second current-collecting material on top of each other. The layering may be carried out by any suitable means. For example, the strip of first current collector material may be welded or diffusion bonded to the strip of second current collector material. In an alternative embodiment, a layer of the second current collector material may be deposited or metallized onto the strip of the first current collector material.

Preferably, the aerosol generating device is portable. The aerosol generating device may be of a size comparable to a traditional cigar or cigarette. The system may be an electric smoking system. The system may be a hand held aerosol generating system. The aerosol generating device may have an overall length of from about 30 millimeters to about 150 millimeters. The aerosol generating device may have an outer diameter of from about 5 millimeters to about 30 millimeters.

The aerosol generating device may include a casing. The casing can be extended. The casing may comprise any suitable material or combination of materials. Examples of suitable materials include metals, alloys, plastics or composite materials containing one or more of these materials, or thermoplastic materials suitable for use in the food or pharmaceutical industry, such as polypropylene, polyether ether ketone (PEEK) and polyethylene. Preferably, the material is lightweight and non-fragile.

The casing may contain a mouthpiece. The casing may include at least one air inlet. The casing may contain more than one air inlet. The mouthpiece may include at least one air inlet and at least one air outlet. The mouthpiece may contain more than one air inlet. The one or more air inlets allow the temperature of the aerosol to be reduced before it is delivered to the user, and they allow the concentration of the aerosol to be reduced before it is delivered to the user.

Alternatively, the mouthpiece may be provided as part of the aerosol generating article. The user may puff directly on the aerosol generating article, preferably at the proximal end of the aerosol generating article.

In the context of this document, the term "mouthpiece" refers to that part of the aerosol generating device that is placed in the user's mouth for the purpose of directly inhaling the aerosol generated by the aerosol generating device from an aerosol generating article placed in the cavity of the specified housing.

One or both of the first air inlet and the second air inlet may be provided as a semi-open inlet. The semi-open inlet preferably allows air to enter the aerosol generating device. Air or liquid can be prevented from escaping the aerosol generating device through the semi-open inlet. The semi-open inlet can be, for example, a semi-permeable membrane that is only permeable to air in one direction but impervious to air and fluid in the opposite direction. The semi-open inlet can also be, for example, a non-return valve. Preferably, semi-open inlets allow air to pass through a given inlet only when certain conditions are met, for example, with a minimum pressure drop in the aerosol generating device or the volume of air passing through said valve or membrane. Separate air inlets may be located on opposite sides of the casing of the aerosol generating device. Downstream of the first air inlet and the second air inlet, separate first and second air flow passages may be provided. The first air inlet and the second air inlet may not be fluidly connected within the aerosol generating device, at least when the aerosol generating article is inserted into said cavity. When the aerosol generating article is inserted into the cavity of the aerosol generating device, the first air inlet allows ambient air to be drawn in through the hollow tubular interior of the aerosol generating article. The central current-collecting structure may be located in the hollow interior of the aerosol-generating article. When the aerosol generating article is inserted into the cavity of the aerosol generating device, the second air inlet will allow ambient air to be drawn in towards the periphery of the aerosol generating article. The peripheral current-collecting structure may be located around the periphery of the aerosol-generating article. The two separate air inlets provide separate air flows through the tubular interior of the aerosol generating article and into the aerosol generating article from the periphery of the aerosol generating article.

The heating unit can be activated using the puff detection system. In an alternative embodiment, the heating assembly may be activated by pressing an on/off button held down for a user's puff. The puff detection system may be in the form of a sensor, which in turn may be in the form of an air flow sensor to measure the air flow rate. The air flow rate is a parameter characterizing the amount of air drawn in by the user per unit time through the air flow path of the aerosol generating device. The initiation of a puff can be detected by the air flow sensor if the air flow rate has exceeded a pre-set threshold. The initiation can also be detected when the button is activated by the user.

The sensor may also be in the form of a pressure sensor for measuring, within the aerosol generating device, the pressure of air that is drawn through the air flow path of the device during puffing by the user. The sensor may be configured to measure the pressure difference or pressure drop between ambient air pressure outside the aerosol generating device and the pressure of the air that the user draws through the device. The air pressure may be detected at an air inlet, in the mouthpiece of the device, in a cavity such as a heating chamber, or in any other passage or chamber within the aerosol generating device through which air flows. When a user puffs on an aerosol generating device, a negative pressure or vacuum is created inside the device, and this negative pressure can be detected using a pressure sensor. The term "negative pressure" should be understood as a pressure that is lower than the ambient air pressure. In other words, when a user takes a puff on the device, the air that is drawn through the device has a pressure that is lower than the ambient air pressure outside the device. Puff initiation can be detected by a pressure sensor if the pressure difference exceeds a pre-set threshold.

The aerosol generating device may include a user interface for activating the aerosol generating device, such as a button for initiating heating of the aerosol generating device, or a display for displaying the status of the aerosol generating device or aerosol generating substrate.

An aerosol generating system is a combination of an aerosol generating device and one or more aerosol generating articles for use with an aerosol generating device. However, the aerosol generating system may include additional components, such as, for example, a charging unit for recharging the built-in power supply in an electrically controlled or electrical aerosol generating device.

The present invention further relates to a system comprising an aerosol generating device as described herein and an aerosol generating article comprising an aerosol generating substrate as described herein.

The aerosol generating article may have a substantially cylindrical shape. The aerosol generating article may be substantially elongated. The aerosol generating article, preferably the substrate portion of the aerosol generating article, may comprise a first tubular layer of aerosol generating substrate. The first tubular layer of aerosol-forming substrate may form a cylindrical hollow center core. The aerosol generating article, preferably the substrate portion of the aerosol generating article, may comprise a second tubular layer of aerosol generating substrate. The second tubular layer of aerosol-forming substrate may be disposed around the first tubular layer of aerosol-forming substrate.

The substrate portion of the aerosol generating article may be inserted into the cavity of the aerosol generating device. During insertion of the substrate portion, the substrate portion may be located between the central current-collecting structure and the peripheral current-collecting structure. After insertion of the substrate portion, the central current-collecting structure may be positioned within the cylindrical hollow central core of the substrate portion of the aerosol generating article. The central current-collecting structure may contact the first tubular layer of the aerosol-forming substrate. The central current-collecting structure may not be in contact with the second tubular layer of the aerosol-forming substrate. Ambient air drawn into the central current collector structure through the first air flow path can be heated by this central current collector structure. In addition, the central current-collecting structure can heat the first tubular layer of the aerosol-forming substrate. By evaporating the substrate of the first tubular layer of the aerosol-forming substrate, an aerosol can be generated. The aerosol may be drawn downstream through the aerosol generating article, in particular the homogenizing portion and the filtering portion of the aerosol generating article. The aerosol can be drawn in through gaps provided between the central current collectors of the central current collector structure.

The peripheral current-collecting structure may be positioned around the substrate portion of the aerosol generating article after the substrate portion of the aerosol generating article has been inserted into the cavity of the aerosol generating device. The peripheral current-collecting structure may be in contact with the second tubular layer of the aerosol-forming substrate. The peripheral current-collecting structure may not be in contact with the first tubular layer of the aerosol-forming substrate. Ambient air may be drawn through the second air flow path toward the periphery of the aerosol generating article and towards the peripheral current collector structure. This air can be heated by a peripheral current collector structure. In addition, the peripheral current-collecting structure can heat the second tubular layer of the aerosol-forming substrate. By evaporating the substrate of the second tubular layer of aerosol-forming substrate, an aerosol can be generated. This aerosol can be drawn downstream through the aerosol generating article, in particular the second tubular layer of the aerosol generating substrate and further through the homogenizing part and the filtering part of the aerosol generating article.

The aerosol generated by the heating action of the central current collector structure of the first tubular aerosol-forming substrate layer can be mixed with the aerosol generated by the heating action of the peripheral current-collecting structure of the second tubular layer of the aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosols may be mixed downstream of the substrate portion of the aerosol generating article. Aerosols can be mixed in the homogenizing portion of the aerosol generating article.

The first tubular layer of aerosol-forming substrate may be different from the second layer of tubular aerosol-forming substrate. These two layers may differ in composition, structure or thickness. The composition may contain an aerosol-forming substrate flavor and/or an aerosol-forming substrate material such as tobacco. The structure may include one or more of a porous aerosol-forming substrate, an open-cell foam, and an extruded cast sheet.

The first tubular layer of aerosol-forming substrate and the second tubular layer of aerosol-forming substrate may be coaxially aligned.

The first tubular layer of the aerosol-forming substrate may be a layer containing nicotine. The first tubular layer of the aerosol-forming substrate may be tobacco-free. The second tubular layer of aerosol-forming substrate may be a tobacco-containing layer. The second tubular layer of the aerosol-forming substrate may contain no nicotine or contain only a small amount of nicotine.

The first tubular layer of the aerosol-forming substrate may be a gel layer. The second tubular layer of the aerosol-forming substrate may be a gel layer.

The melting point of the first tubular layer of aerosol-forming substrate may be different from the melting point of the second tubular layer of aerosol-forming substrate.

The aerosol-forming substrate of the first tubular layer of aerosol-forming substrate may be different from the aerosol-forming substrate of the second tubular layer of aerosol-forming substrate. Preferably, the first tubular layer of the aerosol-forming substrate is one or both of the nicotine layer and the flavor layer. Preferably, the second tubular layer of aerosol-forming substrate is in the form of a primary aerosol-forming layer containing tobacco and an aerosol-forming agent. Therefore, the second tubular layer of aerosol-forming substrate may be configured to generate an inhalable aerosol, while the first tubular layer of aerosol-forming substrate may be configured to influence characteristics such as flavor/aroma or nicotine content of the aerosol.

The first tubular aerosol-forming substrate may contain a flavor, preferably menthol.

A membrane may be disposed between the first tubular layer of aerosol-forming substrate and the second tubular layer of aerosol-forming substrate. The membrane may be made in the form of a film. The membrane can be made in the form of a foil. The membrane may have any of the following: vapor permeability, gas permeability, or aerosol permeability. The membrane is preferably aerosol permeable. The membrane can be made in the form of a filter. The membrane may be configured to filter larger particles contained in the aerosol, but be permeable to smaller particles.

The article may further comprise a homogenizing portion located downstream of the first and second tubular aerosol substrates. The homogenizing part may be a filtering part. The homogenizing part may be a hollow filter part. The homogenizing portion may be a hollow acetate tube. The homogenizing part may be configured to cool the aerosol. The homogenizing portion may directly adjoin one or both of the first and second tubular layers of the aerosol-forming substrate. The homogenizing portion may be aligned with one or both of the first and second tubular layers of the aerosol-forming substrate. Preferably, the homogenizing portion is hollow and the inner diameter of the homogenizing portion is equal to or substantially equal to the inner diameter of the first tubular layer of the aerosol-forming substrate. The homogenizing portion may contain a flavoring agent. The homogenizing portion may comprise a capsule or disk. The capsule or disk may contain a flavoring agent. The capsule or disk may be centrally located within the homogenizing portion.

The aerosol generating article may further comprise a mouthpiece filter located downstream of the homogenizing portion. The mouthpiece filter may be an acetate filter. The mouthpiece filter can be made from acetate rope. The mouthpiece filter may be a cylindrical filter. The mouthpiece filter may not be a hollow filter. The mouthpiece filter may contain fibers, preferably low density linear longitudinal fibers.

The second tubular layer of aerosol-forming substrate may be surrounded by a wrapper. The wrapper can be made from cigarette wrapping paper. The wrapper can be made from cigarette wrapping paper. The wrapper can be made from standard cigarette wrapping paper. Alternatively, the wrapper may be tobacco paper. Tobacco paper may have the advantage of preventing undesirable taste effects. The wrapper may have two open ends. These two open ends may overlap when the wrapper is wrapped around the second tubular layer of aerosol-forming substrate. These two ends can be joined with an adhesive in the overlap area. The wrapper may be breathable.

The present invention further relates to a method for manufacturing an aerosol generating article, comprising:

providing a first sheet of a first aerosol-forming substrate,

providing a second sheet of a second aerosol-forming substrate on the first sheet,

rolling the first and second sheets, thereby forming a hollow tubular aerosol generating article.

As an alternative to either or both of providing the first aerosol-forming substrate as a first sheet and providing the second aerosol-forming substrate as a second sheet on the first sheet and rolling the sheet, an extrusion process may be used. During the extrusion process, the first aerosol-forming substrate may be extruded separately from or together with the second aerosol-forming substrate. During the extrusion process, the first aerosol-forming substrate may be extruded to form a first tubular layer of aerosol-forming substrate. During the extrusion process, the second aerosol-forming substrate may be extruded to form a second tubular layer of aerosol-forming substrate. The second tubular layer of aerosol-forming substrate may be disposed around the first tubular layer of aerosol-forming substrate. The manufacture of an aerosol generating article by extrusion processes can be particularly advantageous if one or both of the first and second aerosol generating substrates are provided in the form of a gel.

The first and second sheets may be rolled such that opposite edges of the sheets are brought into contact. During rolling or after rolling of the first and second sheets, wrapping paper may be wrapped around the second sheet of aerosol-forming substrate. The wrapping paper may be breathable.

After providing the first sheet, the membrane can be placed on this first sheet. A second sheet may be provided on said membrane. The membrane may be a film or foil.

The method may include the additional step of providing the homogenizing portion described herein downstream of the first and second tubular aerosol-forming substrates.

The method may include the additional step of providing the mouthpiece filter described herein downstream of the homogenizing portion.

The aerosol-forming substrate described below may be one or both of the aerosol-forming substrate of the first tubular layer of aerosol-forming substrate and the second tubular layer of aerosol-forming substrate. Preferably, the first tubular layer of aerosol-forming substrate may use nicotine and/or flavor containing the aerosol-forming substrate, while the second tubular layer of aerosol-forming substrate may use tobacco containing the aerosol-forming substrate.

The aerosol-forming substrate may contain nicotine. The nicotine-containing aerosol-forming substrate may be a nicotine salt matrix.

The aerosol-forming substrate may contain material of vegetable origin. The aerosol-forming substrate may contain tobacco. The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a tobacco-containing material containing volatile tobacco flavor compounds that are released from the aerosol-forming substrate upon heating. In an alternative embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a non-tobacco material. The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise homogenized plant material. The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise homogenized tobacco material. Homogenized tobacco material can be obtained by agglomeration of bulk tobacco. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate may comprise an assembled corrugated sheet of homogenized tobacco material. As used herein, the term "corrugated sheet" means a sheet having a plurality of substantially parallel pleats or corrugations.

The aerosol-forming substrate may contain at least one aerosol-forming agent. The aerosol generating agent is any suitable known compound or mixture of compounds which, when used, produces a dense and stable aerosol and is substantially resistant to thermal degradation at the operating temperature of the system. Suitable aerosol forming agents are well known in the art and include, without limitation: polyhydric alcohols such as triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol, and glycerol; esters of polyhydric alcohols such as glycerol mono-, di- or triacetate; and aliphatic esters of mono-, di- or polycarboxylic acids such as dimethyl dodecanedioate and dimethyl tetradecanedioate. Preferred aerosol forming agents are polyhydric alcohols or mixtures thereof, such as triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol. Preferably, the aerosol forming agent is glycerol. If present, the homogenized tobacco material may have an aerosolizing agent content of 5 percent or greater than 5 percent by weight on a dry weight basis, preferably from about 5 percent by weight to about 30 percent by weight on a dry weight basis. The aerosol-forming substrate may contain other additives and ingredients such as flavoring agents.

The aerosol-generating article and the cavity of the aerosol-generating device may be configured such that the aerosol-generating article is partially located within the cavity of the aerosol-generating device. The cavity of the aerosol-generating device and the aerosol-generating article may be positioned such that the aerosol-generating article is completely contained within the cavity of the aerosol-generating device.

The aerosol generating article may have a length and a circumference substantially perpendicular to the length. The aerosol-forming substrate may be provided as an aerosol-forming segment enclosing the aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol generating segment may be substantially cylindrical in shape. The aerosol generating segment may be substantially elongated. The aerosol generating segment may also have a length and a circumference substantially perpendicular to the length.

The aerosol generating article may have an overall length of from about 30 millimeters to about 100 millimeters. In one embodiment, the aerosol generating article has an overall length of approximately 45 millimeters. The aerosol generating article may have an outer diameter of from about 5 millimeters to about 12 millimeters. In one embodiment, the aerosol generating article may have an outside diameter of approximately 7.2 millimeters.

The aerosol-forming substrate may be provided as an aerosol-forming segment having a length of from about 7 millimeters to about 15 millimeters. In one embodiment, the aerosol-forming segment may be approximately 10 millimeters long. In an alternative embodiment, the aerosol forming segment may be approximately 12 mm long.

The aerosol generating segment preferably has an outer diameter approximately equal to the outer diameter of the aerosol generating article. The outer diameter of the aerosol forming segment may be from about 5 millimeters to about 12 millimeters. In one embodiment, the aerosol forming segment may have an outer diameter of approximately 7.2 millimeters.

The aerosol generating article may include a filter plug. The filter plug can be made in the form of a mouthpiece filter. The filter plug may be located at the downstream end of the aerosol generating article. The filter plug may be a cellulose acetate filter plug. The filter plug may be a hollow cellulose acetate filter plug. The filter plug in one embodiment is about 7 millimeters long, but it can be from about 5 millimeters to about 10 millimeters long.

The aerosol generating article may include an outer paper wrapper. The outer paper wrapper may be in the form of wrapping paper as described herein. The outer paper wrapper may extend throughout the aerosol generating article. The outer paper wrapper may be configured to connect and contain various elements of the aerosol generating article.

In addition, the aerosol generating article may include a partition between the aerosol generating substrate and the filter plug. The septum may be about 18 millimeters in size, but it may be in the range of about 5 millimeters to about 25 millimeters.

The aerosol generating device may comprise an elastic sealing element. The resilient sealing element may be located at the downstream end of said cavity. The resilient sealing element may be positioned to surround the downstream end of said cavity. The elastic sealing element has a round shape. The resilient sealing member may be funnel-shaped to facilitate insertion of the aerosol generating article. The resilient sealing member may apply pressure to the aerosol generating article after the aerosol generating article is inserted to hold the aerosol generating article in place. The resilient sealing member may be adjacent to the aerosol generating article after the aerosol generating article is inserted into said cavity. The resilient sealing member may be airtight to prevent air from escaping said cavity except through the aerosol generating article.

The aerosol-generating article may comprise a heat-insulating element. The heat-insulating element may be located around said cavity. The heat insulating element may be located between the casing of the aerosol generating device and said cavity. The heat-insulating element may be tubular. The heat insulating element may be coaxially aligned with the induction heating unit, preferably coaxially aligned with the peripheral current collector structure.

Features described in relation to one embodiment may be equally applicable to other embodiments of the present invention.

The present invention will now be described solely by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

in FIG. 1 is a sectional view of an aerosol generating device and an aerosol generating article according to the present invention;

in FIG. 2 is a sectional view of an aerosol generating device for inserting an aerosol generating article;

in FIG. 3 shows another embodiment of an aerosol generating article;

On FIG. 4 shows the flow of air through the aerosol generating device;

in FIG. 5 shows a more detailed view of the first and second airflow channels; And

in FIG. 6 shows an exemplary embodiment of means for controlling the flow of air in an aerosol generating device.

On FIG. 1 shows an aerosol generating device 10 and an aerosol generating article 12. In other words, FIG. 1 shows an aerosol generating system comprising an aerosol generating device 10 and an aerosol generating article 12.

The aerosol-generating device 10 includes a cavity 14 for inserting an aerosol-generating article 12. When the aerosol-generating article 12 is inserted into the cavity 14, the substrate portion 16 of the aerosol-generating article 12 will be inserted into this cavity 14. The filtering portion 18 of the aerosol-generating article 12 protrudes from the cavity 14, and the user is able to directly puff on the filter portion 18 of the aerosol-generating article 12.

At the downstream end 22 of cavity 14 is resilient sealing member 20. Resilient sealing member 20 is configured to facilitate insertion of aerosol generating article 12 into cavity 14 and to retain aerosol generating article 12 after it has been inserted into cavity 14. Resilient sealing member 20 has a funnel-shaped shape. The resilient sealing element 20 has a circular shape surrounding the downstream end 22 of the cavity 14.

The aerosol generating device 10 includes an induction assembly. The induction node contains the coil 24 inductance. The induction assembly further comprises a current-collecting assembly. The susceptor assembly includes, preferably, a central susceptor structure 26 and a peripheral susceptor structure 28. The central current collector structure 26 is located within the peripheral current collector structure 28. A cavity 14 is provided between the central current collector structure 26 and the peripheral current collector structure 28 for inserting the aerosol generating article 12. The cavity 14 has a hollow tubular volume of a cylindrical shape.

The aerosol-generating article 12 is located between the central current-collector structure 26 and the peripheral current-collector structure 28. The central current-collector structure 26 and the peripheral current-collector structure 28 may be spaced apart so as to keep the aerosol-generating article 12 within the cavity 14. the structure 26 and the peripheral current-collecting structure 28 may be equal to the distance between the outer diameter of the aerosol-generating article 12 and the inner diameter of the aerosol-generating article 12, or it may be slightly less than this distance. The substrate portion 16 of the aerosol-generating article 12 is preferably a hollow tubular substrate portion 16. Therefore, the substrate portion 16 of the aerosol-generating article 12 can be placed on the central current-collecting structure 26. In this case, the central current-collecting structure 26 penetrates the hollow tubular volume of the substrate portion 16 of the generating aerosol product 12. At the same time, the peripheral current-collecting structure 28 abuts against the periphery of the substrate part 16 of the aerosol-generating product 12.

On FIG. 1 further shows a first air inlet 30 and a second air inlet 32. The first air inlet 30 is fluidly connected to the central current collector structure 26. The central current collector structure 26 is preferably hollow. Air flow can be provided from the first air inlet 30 towards the hollow interior of the central susceptor structure 26 and downstream from the cavity 14 of the aerosol generating device 10. The second air inlet 32 is fluidly connected to the periphery of the peripheral susceptor structure 28. When inserted aerosol-generating article 12, two separate air flows will be provided into the cavity 14. The first air flow from the first air inlet 30 flows through the hollow interior volume of the aerosol generating article 12. The second air flow from the second air inlet 32 flows from the periphery of the aerosol generating article 12 into the aerosol generating article 12 and then downstream from the cavity 14 of the aerosol generating article devices 10.

The substrate portion 16 of the aerosol generating article 12 shown in FIG. 3 preferably comprises a first tubular layer 38 of an aerosol-forming substrate and a second tubular layer 40 of an aerosol-forming substrate. The first tubular layer 38 of the aerosol-forming substrate is located within the substrate portion 16 and is surrounded by the second tubular layer 40 of the aerosol-forming substrate. The first tubular layer 38 of the aerosol-forming substrate preferably contains one or both of the nicotine and flavor substrates. The second tubular aerosol-generating substrate layer 40 preferably comprises a tobacco aerosol-generating substrate. By providing two separate air streams, it is possible to control the first air stream to affect one or both of the nicotine and flavor in the generated aerosol, and the second air stream to control to generate the desired aerosol from the tobacco substrate.

The first air inlet 30 and the second air inlet 32 may be configured as adjustable. In particular, the cross-sectional area of one or both of the first air inlet 30 and the second air inlet 32 may be adjustable. Thus, it is possible to control the properties of the generated aerosol, such as nicotine content and taste/aroma, by controlling the air flow through one or both of the first air inlet 30 and the second air inlet 32.

To regulate one or both of the first air inlet 30 and the second air inlet 32, the aerosol generating device 10 may include a controller 42. The controller 42 may further be configured to control the operation of the induction assembly. In particular, the controller 42 may be configured to control the supply of electricity from the power source to the inductor 24. The power source 44 may be in the form of a battery.

On FIG. 2 shows the proximal part of the aerosol generating device 10 in more detail. FIG. 2, the cavity 14 for inserting the aerosol generating device 10 is clearly visible. Within the cavity 14 is located a central current collector structure 26 containing individual central current collectors 34. The central current collector structure 26 is surrounded by a peripheral current collector structure 28 containing a plurality of peripheral current collectors 36 in the form of an expanding blade.

Said current-collecting structure is surrounded by an inductor 24 . The inductor 24 surrounds the cavity 14. In the upstream area of the cavity 14 is the first channel 46 for air flow. The first air flow passage 46 fluidly connects the first air inlet 30 to the hollow interior of the central current collector structure 26. Adjacent to the first air flow passage 46 is a second air flow passage 48. The second air flow channel 48 fluidly connects the second air inlet 32 to the periphery of the peripheral current collector structure 28.

On FIG. 3 shows an embodiment of an aerosol generating article 12, more particularly a substrate portion 16 of an aerosol generating article 12. The substrate portion 16 of an aerosol generating article 12 comprises a first tubular layer 38 of an aerosol generating substrate. The first tubular aerosol generating substrate layer 38 is positioned adjacent the hollow interior of the aerosol generating article 12. The first tubular aerosol generating substrate layer 38 is configured as one or both of the nicotine and flavor layers. The first tubular layer 38 of aerosol-forming substrate is surrounded by a second tubular layer 40 of aerosol-forming substrate. The second tubular aerosol-forming substrate layer 40 is in the form of an aerosol-forming layer containing tobacco. A membrane such as a film or foil may be provided between the first tubular layer 38 of the aerosol-forming substrate and the second tubular layer 40 of the aerosol-forming substrate. Wrapping paper may be provided surrounding the second tubular layer 40 of the aerosol-forming substrate.

On FIG. 4 shows the air flow through the aerosol generating device 10 in more detail. The air flow is indicated by arrows. Two separate airflow channels 46, 48 are provided. The first air flow path 46 begins at the first air inlet 30 and fluidly connects the hollow interior of the central current collector structure 26 to the first air inlet 30 . The air from the first air flow passage 46 enters the central current collector structure 26 at the base of the central current collector structure 26. Aerosol may form inside the central current collector structure 26 of the current collector. The aerosol can be generated by heating the first tubular layer 38 of the aerosol-forming substrate, as well as the air inside the central susceptor structure 26, by means of the central susceptor structure 26. air and the first tubular layer 38 of the aerosol-forming substrate can be optimized by using gaps between the individual central current collectors 34 and by providing the central current collectors 34 as porous current collectors. The evaporated substrate is entrained in air flowing through the central current collector structure 26. The generated aerosol flows through the central current collector structure 26 downstream towards the filter portion 18 of the aerosol generating article 12. The filter portion 18 may include a homogenizing portion 50 such as a hollow acetate tube for cooling the aerosol. , immediately adjacent to the substrate portion 16 downstream thereof. Downstream of the homogenizing portion, an acetate tow filter 52 may be provided in the aerosol generating article 12.

The second channel 48 for air flow starts at the second inlet 32 for air. The second air flow channel 48 fluidly connects the second air inlet 32 to the periphery of the substrate portion 16 of the aerosol generating article 12 after insertion of the aerosol generating article 12 into the cavity 14. The periphery of the substrate portion 16 may be part of the cavity 14. The peripheral current collector structure 28 is located at the periphery of the substrate portion 16, preferably in contact with the substrate portion 16. The area of contact between the air and the second tubular layer 40 of the aerosol-forming substrate can be optimized by using gaps between the individual peripheral current collectors 36 and by providing the peripheral current collectors 36 as porous current collectors. Air from the second airflow passage 48 may entrain vaporized substrate of the second tubular aerosol-forming substrate layer 40 heated by the peripheral current-collecting structure 28. The aerosol may be drawn further downstream through the second tubular aerosol-forming substrate layer 40. Further, the aerosol may be drawn into the filter portion 18 of the aerosol generating article 12. In the filter portion 18 of the aerosol generating article 12, the aerosol generated inside the aerosol generating article 12 as a result of heating by the central current collector structure 26 may be mixed with the aerosol generated as a result of heating the second tubular layer. 40 of the aerosol-generating substrate via a peripheral current-collecting structure 28. The wrapper may be positioned around the substrate portion 16 of the aerosol-generating article 12. The wrapper is preferably breathable so that air from the second airflow channel 48 is allowed to enter the inside of the second tubular layer 40 of the aerosol-generating substrate.

On FIG. 5 shows the first air inlet 30, the second air inlet 32, the first air flow channel 46 and the second air flow channel 48 in more detail. The first air inlet 30 and the second air inlet 32 are located in the housing of the aerosol generating device. As shown in FIG. 5, the first air inlet 30 may comprise two separate air inlets on opposite sides of the housing of the aerosol generating device 10. Similarly, the second air inlet 32 includes two separate air inlets on opposite sides of the housing of the aerosol generating device 10. From the first inlet 30 for air, ambient air may be drawn into the aerosol generating device 10. Ambient air is drawn into the aerosol generating device 10 through the first air flow passage 46 . The first air flow channel 46 extends perpendicular to the longitudinal central axis of said cavity adjacent to the first air inlet 30 . The first air flow channel 46 directs air towards the central portion 54 of the cavity 14. The central portion 54 of the cavity 14 extends along the longitudinal central axis of the cavity 14. The first air flow channel 46 directs air towards the central portion 54 of the cavity 14 at the base 56 located earlier along the flow relative to the central part 54 of the cavity 14.

The second air flow passage 48 is separated from the first air flow passage 46 by a base 56. The base 56 may be connected to the housing of the aerosol generating device 10. In addition, the peripheral current collector structure 28 and the central current collector structure 26 may be attached to the base 56. The second passage 48 for air flow directs air from the second air inlet 32 towards the periphery of the aerosol generating article 12 inserted into the cavity 14. As shown by the arrows in FIG. 5, the first air flow passage 46 is fluidly separated from the second air flow passage 48 by separate first air inlet 30, second air inlet 32, base 56, and substrate portion 18 of the inserted aerosol generating article 12. Without inserted aerosol generating article 12. 12, first air flow passage 46 is fluidly separated from second air flow passage 48 at least upstream of cavity 14.

The cross-sectional areas of the first air inlet 30 and the second air inlet 32 can be adjusted. A specific embodiment of cross-sectional area adjustment is shown in FIG. 6. In this embodiment, air flow control means 58 are provided. Means 58 for regulating the air flow are made in the form of a perforated swivel ring. The air flow control means 58 are arranged around the circumference of the outer casing 60 of the aerosol generating device 10. The air flow control means 58 comprise a plurality of perforations 62. The perforations are arranged in the form of a first row 64 of perforations 62 and a second row 66 of perforations 62. The first row 64 of perforations 62. holes 62 are located adjacent to the second row 66 and adjacent to the second row 66 of perforations 62. Preferably, as shown in FIG. 6, both of the first row 64 and the second row 66 are part of a single perforated rotary ring which is the air flow control means 58. Thus, rotation of the air flow control means 58 causes both of the first row 64 and the second row 66 to simultaneously rotate. air and the second air inlet 32, respectively, by turning the means 58 for regulating the air flow. Each pair of perforations 62 are marked as shown in FIG. 6 and corresponds to a specific ratio of air flow through the first air inlet 30 and the second air inlet 32. Thus, each perforation 62 of the first row 64 of perforations 62 has a specific cross-sectional area. Similarly, each perforation 62 of the second row 66 of perforations 62 has a specific cross-sectional area. In the example shown in FIG. 6, the pair of perforations 62 located above the first air inlet 30 and the second air inlet 32, respectively, have the same cross-sectional area so that the air flow through the respective air inlets is the same. Therefore, this arrangement of air flow control means 58 is labeled "50" for the perforations 62 of the first row 64, and labeled "50" for the perforations 62 of the second row 66. Other cross-sectional area ratios of the perforations 62 are indicated by the corresponding markers, as can be seen on Fig. 6.

The installation of the air flow control means 58 can be seen in FIG. 5. To this end, the outer casing 60 of the aerosol-generating device 10 may comprise male retaining means 68, while the airflow control means 58 may comprise female retaining means 70. The male retaining means 68 may be configured to cooperate with the female retaining means 70. The retaining means 68, 70 may be configured to allow the air flow control means 58 to pivot about the outer circumference of the outer casing 60 of the aerosol generating device 10. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 5, the first row 64 of perforations 62 is separate from the second row 66 of perforations 62. As shown in FIG. 6, both rows 64, 66 can also be made together. Separate execution of the first row 64 and the second row 66 allows separate rotation of the respective parts of the air flow control means 58 to facilitate independent adjustment of the cross-sectional areas of the first air inlet 30 and the second air inlet 32.

Claims (21)

1. An aerosol generating device, comprising: a cavity for receiving an aerosol-generating article containing an aerosol-generating substrate; a first air inlet fluidly connected to said cavity and allowing ambient air to be drawn into said cavity; And a second air inlet fluidly connected to said cavity and allowing ambient air to be drawn into said cavity, wherein the aerosol generating device further comprises air flow control means for regulating one or both of the air flows through the first air inlet and the second air inlet, wherein the means for regulating the air flow are configured to regulate the cross-sectional area of one or both of the first air inlet and the second air inlet, wherein the air flow control means is made in the form of a perforated element, wherein each perforation of the perforated element corresponds to a different cross-sectional area, and the perforated element comprises a first set of perforations and a second set of perforations, the first set of perforations corresponding to the first air inlet , and the second set of perforations corresponds to the second air inlet. 2. An aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein the perforated element is in the form of a perforated ring. 3. An aerosol generating device according to claim 2, wherein the perforated ring is located around a portion of the circumference of the aerosol generating device. 4. An aerosol generating device according to claim 3, wherein the perforated ring is rotatably mounted around a housing portion of the aerosol generating device. 5. An aerosol generating device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the air flow control means are configured to simultaneously control the cross-sectional area of the first air inlet and the second air inlet. 6. An aerosol generating device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each pair of perforations from the first set of perforations and the second set of perforations corresponds to a predetermined ratio of air flow through the first air inlet and through the second air inlet. 7. An aerosol-generating device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the means for controlling the air flow are in the form of mechanical means controlled by the user. 8. Generating aerosol device according to any one of paragraphs. 1-6, further comprising a controller, wherein the means for regulating the air flow are in the form of electrically controlled means, and the controller is configured to control said electrically controlled means. 9. An aerosol-generating device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the air flow control means further comprises a first valve, preferably a microelectronic valve, adapted to control the cross-sectional area of the first air inlet. 10. An aerosol generating device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the air flow control means further comprises a second valve, preferably a microelectronic valve, configured to control the cross-sectional area of the second air inlet. 11. An aerosol generating device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first air inlet is fluidly connected to the central part of said cavity and the second air inlet is fluidly connected to the peripheral part of said cavity. 12. An aerosol generating device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first air inlet and the second air inlet are fluidly separated upstream of said cavity. 13. An aerosol generating device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first air inlet and the second air inlet are configured to be separately controlled by air flow control means. 14. An aerosol generating device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the ratio of air flow at the first air inlet and at the second air inlet can be controlled by air flow control means while maintaining the total air flow constant. 15. A system containing an aerosol generating device according to any one of paragraphs. 1-14 and an aerosol generating article comprising an aerosol generating substrate.

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