Aerosol-generating device

Abstract

An aerosol-generating device (1) comprises a heating element (8); a dose delivery assembly (2) comprising a cutting mechanism (4) disposed in a cutting region and configured to cut a portion from an aerosol-generating article (20) received by the aerosol-generating device; and a transfer mechanism (6) configured to transfer the cut portion of the aerosol-generating article from the cutting region to the heating element. The cutting mechanism can comprise a first blade (41) having a first cutting direction and a second blade (42) having a second cutting direction different from the first cutting direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to an aerosol generating apparatus for dose delivery to an aerosol forming substrate. More specifically, this disclosure relates to a dose delivery component in such an aerosol generating apparatus for dose delivery to an aerosol forming substrate. This disclosure also relates to methods of using the aerosol generating apparatus. More specifically, this disclosure relates to methods of dose delivery to an aerosol forming substrate. Background Technology

[0002] Preferably, such devices and methods are configured to dose or meter a portion of an aerosol-generating article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate, and to heat a portion of the aerosol-generating article to induce aerosol generation without burning the aerosol-generating article. These are referred to as “heat-not-burn” devices and are commonly used for tobacco-consuming or tobacco-based products. For example, these devices can heat tobacco-based aerosol-generating articles to release aerosols containing nicotine and aromatic substances.

[0003] An exemplary internal heating (heat-not-burn) device heats a tobacco product similar to a conventional cigarette. Such a heating device includes a heating blade that pierces the tobacco product to contact and heat the tobacco matrix. A user can inhale through the mouthpiece of the device, allowing an aerosol to flow through the tobacco product for inhalation. Because the substrate is not burned, combustion and pyrolysis byproducts are not included in the aerosol and therefore not passed to the user for inhalation.

[0004] Nicotine compositions used with aerosol-generating articles are known. Nicotine compositions are typically liquid compositions heated by a coiled resistance wire of an aerosol-generating article, such as e-cigarette liquids. To prevent accidental leakage of the liquid composition, containers containing the liquid composition should be manufactured with care. Accidental leakage can occur when containers are made of paper, cardboard, or any material that may absorb or be damaged by the liquid nicotine composition.

[0005] Typically, electronic smoking devices are not designed to measure or adjust the amount of aerosol delivered during the consumption of the consumable.

[0006] It is desirable to conveniently deliver or meter the aerosol-forming substrate with each inhalation or experience in an aerosol generating device (e.g., an electronic smoking device). It is desirable to provide an aerosol generating device capable of delivering or metering the aerosol-forming substrate. It is desirable to provide a method for delivering or metering the aerosol-forming substrate in an aerosol generating device. It is desirable to provide an aerosol generating article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate for an aerosol generating device, which allows for convenient delivery or metering. Summary of the Invention

[0007] This disclosure relates to an aerosol generating apparatus that can be used to generate aerosols from an aerosol generating article. The apparatus may include a dosing delivery assembly. The dosing delivery assembly may be capable of dosing or metering a portion of the aerosol generating article. The dosing delivery assembly may include a cutting mechanism. The cutting mechanism may be disposed in a cutting area of ​​the aerosol generating apparatus. The cutting mechanism may be configured to cut a portion from the aerosol generating article received by the aerosol generating apparatus. The dosing delivery assembly may include a conveying mechanism. The conveying mechanism may be capable of conveying the cut portion to a heating area of ​​the aerosol generating apparatus. The conveying mechanism may be capable of conveying the cut portion to a heating element. The heating element may be part of the aerosol generating apparatus. The heating element may be capable of heating the cut portion of the aerosol generating article. This can generate an aerosol. The aerosol generating article may include an aerosol forming substrate. The aerosol forming substrate may include nicotine. The cutting mechanism may include at least one blade. The cutting mechanism may include only a first blade. The cutting mechanism may include a first blade and a second blade. The cutting mechanism may include a blade grid. The cutting mechanism may include a stamped cutting blade.

[0008] According to another embodiment of this disclosure, the aerosol generating apparatus includes a heating element and a dosage delivery assembly. The dosage delivery assembly includes a cutting mechanism disposed in a cutting area and configured to cut a portion from an aerosol-generated article received by the aerosol generating apparatus. The dosage delivery assembly includes a conveying mechanism configured to convey the cut portion of the aerosol-generated article from the cutting area to the heating element. The cutting mechanism may include at least one blade. The cutting mechanism may include only a first blade. The cutting mechanism may include both a first blade and a second blade. The cutting mechanism may include a blade grid. The cutting mechanism may include a stamped cutting blade.

[0009] The cutting mechanism may include blades. The cutting mechanism may include a first blade having a first cutting direction. The cutting mechanism may include a second blade having a second cutting direction. The second cutting direction may be different from the first cutting direction. The second cutting direction may be perpendicular to the first cutting direction. The first blade may be movable in the first cutting direction. The second blade may be movable in the second cutting direction. The cutting mechanism may include a blade grid. The blade grid may be configured to simultaneously cut a consumable into multiple parts. The cutting mechanism may include a stamped cutting blade. The cutting mechanism may include any one of the first blade, the second blade, the blade grid, and the stamped cutting blade. The cutting mechanism may include any combination of two or more of the first blade, the second blade, the blade grid, and the stamped cutting blade.

[0010] The conveying mechanism may include a pushing member. The pushing member can translate linearly in a first direction. The pushing member can translate linearly in a second direction. The pushing member can translate linearly in a third direction.

[0011] The dosing delivery assembly may include a controller comprising one or more processors. The controller may be configured to determine which one or more portions of the aerosol-generating article have not yet been cut. The controller may be configured to determine which one or more portions of the aerosol-generating article have been cut. The controller may be configured to determine which one or more portions of the aerosol-generating article are available for cutting. The controller may be configured to determine which one or more portions of the aerosol-generating article have not been cut, which one or more portions of the aerosol-generating article have been cut, and which one or more portions of the aerosol-generating article are available for cutting.

[0012] The controller can be configured to receive input indicating a desired aerosolization profile. As used herein, the term "aerosolization profile" refers to a generation profile (e.g., generation rate) or a procedure for generating aerosols. A profile or procedure can refer to one or more operating parameters over time. For example, a profile can refer to temperature over time or power supplied to a heating element over time. In some cases, a profile or procedure can be a heating profile or procedure (e.g., a procedure defining a heating temperature and rate). A profile or procedure can involve a chemical reaction. A profile or procedure can refer to a mechanical stimulus, such as ultrasound. The controller can be configured to receive input indicating a desired aerosol profile. As used herein, the term "aerosol profile" refers to one or more properties of an aerosol composition or a set of properties of an aerosol composition. For example, an aerosol profile can indicate the amount of an active ingredient, the intensity of the active ingredient, the flavor of the aerosol, or a combination thereof. The input can be from a user. For example, the controller can be configured to receive input from a user that defines a desired aerosolization profile or aerosol profile, or both. Inputs can be indirect indicators of aerosolization profiles. For example, inputs can indicate the type of aerosol-generated article used with or received by the aerosol-generating apparatus. Inputs can indicate the type of aerosol-forming substrate of the aerosol-generated article used with or received by the aerosol-generating apparatus. Inputs can be from sensing devices such as one or more sensors. One or more sensors can be part of the aerosol-generating apparatus. One or more sensors can be part of auxiliary devices. For example, a controller can be configured to receive inputs from one or more sensing devices (such as one or more sensors) of the aerosol-generating apparatus. One or more sensing devices can provide the controller with signals indicating the type of aerosol-generated article to be used with or received by the aerosol-generating apparatus. One or more sensing devices can provide the controller with signals indicating the type of aerosol-forming substrate of the aerosol-forming article to be used with or received by the aerosol-generating apparatus. The controller can be configured to determine the amount of aerosol-generated article to be cut or which portion of the aerosol-generated article to be cut based on the received inputs.

[0013] A method for dosing an aerosol-generated article using an aerosol-generating device may include: placing the aerosol-generating article in a cutting area; actuating a cutting assembly to cut a portion of the aerosol-generating article; actuating a conveying mechanism to convey the cut portion to a heating area of ​​the aerosol-generating device; and heating the cut portion of the aerosol-generating article with a heating element.

[0014] The method may include determining which one or more portions of the aerosol-generating article have not been cut. The method may include determining which one or more portions of the aerosol-generating article have been cut. The method may include determining which one or more portions of the aerosol-generating article are available for cutting. The method may include determining which one or more portions of the aerosol-generating article have not been cut and have been cut, and which one or more portions are available for cutting.

[0015] The method may include inputting an input defining a desired aerosol profile into an aerosol generating apparatus; and determining, based on the received input, the amount of aerosol-generated article to be cut or which portion of the aerosol-generated article to cut. The method may also include inputting an input defining a desired aerosol profile into an aerosol generating apparatus; and determining, based on the received input, the heating profile of the aerosol-generating substrate.

[0016] An aerosol generation system may include an aerosol generation apparatus and an aerosol generation article that can be received by the aerosol generation apparatus. The aerosol generation article includes an aerosol forming substrate. The aerosol generation article may include a first outer layer and a second outer layer opposite to the first outer layer. One or both of the first and second outer layers may include a protective layer. The aerosol generation article includes an inner layer disposed between the first and second outer layers. The inner layer includes the aerosol forming substrate. The inner layer may contain nicotine gel. The outer layer may include a fibrous material. The fibrous material may be derived from cellulose. The first and second outer layers may have planar outer surfaces. The aerosol generation article may be substantially planar.

[0017] As used in this article, the term "inhalation" refers to a single inhalation by a user from an aerosol generating device.

[0018] In the context of aerosol generation devices inhaling aerosols as used in this article, the term "experience" refers to a single usage period that may include multiple aspirations.

[0019] The term "nicotine" refers to nicotine and nicotine derivatives, such as free nicotine base and nicotine salts.

[0020] As used herein, the terms “controller” and “processor” mean any device or apparatus capable of providing computational and control capabilities suitable for or configurable to perform the methods, processes and techniques described herein, such as, for example, a microprocessor, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), an equivalent discrete or integrated logic circuit, or any combination thereof, and also mean any device or apparatus capable of providing suitable data storage capabilities, including any medium (e.g., volatile or non-volatile memory, or magnetically recordable media such as a disk or magnetic tape) containing readable and writable digital bits (e.g., encoded in binary or ternary).

[0021] As used herein, the term "aerosol" refers to a suspension of solid particles or liquid droplets, or a combination of solid particles and liquid droplets in a gas. The gas may be air. The solid particles or liquid droplets may contain one or more volatile flavor compounds. Aerosols may be visible or invisible. Aerosols may include vapors of substances that are typically liquid or solid at room temperature, as well as solid particles or droplets, or a combination of solid particles and droplets. In some embodiments, aerosols contain nicotine.

[0022] As used herein, the term "aerosol forming substrate" refers to a material capable of releasing one or more volatile compounds that can form aerosols. In some embodiments, the aerosol forming substrate may be heated to volatilize one or more components of the aerosol forming substrate to form an aerosol. In some cases, volatile compounds may be released through a chemical reaction. In some cases, volatile compounds may be released through mechanical stimulation, such as ultrasound. The aerosol forming substrate may be solid or liquid, or may include both solid and liquid components. The aerosol forming substrate may be adsorbed, coated, impregnated, or otherwise loaded onto a carrier or support. The aerosol forming substrate may contain nicotine. The aerosol forming substrate may include plant-based materials. The aerosol forming substrate may include tobacco. The aerosol forming substrate may include tobacco-containing materials containing volatile tobacco flavor compounds that are released from the aerosol forming substrate upon heating. Alternatively, the aerosol forming substrate may include tobacco-free materials. The aerosol forming substrate may include homogenized plant-based materials. The aerosol forming substrate may include homogenized tobacco materials. The aerosol forming substrate may include at least one aerosol forming agent. Aerosol forming substrates may include other additives and ingredients, such as flavorings. Aerosol forming substrates may include active ingredients. Aerosol forming substrates may be provided as part of an aerosol-generating article. Aerosol forming substrates may be provided in an aerosol-generating article.

[0023] As used herein, the term "aerosol generating article" refers to a disposable product capable of including (e.g., retaining, containing, having, or storing) an aerosol forming substrate. An aerosol generating article may be removably interfaced or docked with an aerosol generating apparatus. This allows the aerosol generating apparatus to generate aerosols from the aerosol forming substrate of the aerosol generating article.

[0024] As used herein, the term "aerosol generating device" refers to any device configured for use or utilization with an aerosol generating substrate that releases volatile compounds to form an aerosol that can be inhaled by a user. The aerosol generating device may interface with an aerosol generating article that includes an aerosol generating substrate.

[0025] As used herein, the term "heating element" means any device, apparatus, or part thereof configured to provide heat or thermal energy to an aerosol-generating article to release volatile compounds from the aerosol-generating article to form an aerosol.

[0026] The term "gel" refers to a gelling material. A gel or gelling material can be solid at room temperature. A gel or gelling material can substantially maintain its shape and mass at room temperature. In this context, room temperature means 25 degrees Celsius. In this context, "solid" means that the material substantially maintains its shape and mass at room temperature and does not flow.

[0027] The terms “integral” and “integrally formed” as used herein describe elements formed on a single sheet (a single integral sheet). Integral or integrally formed components can be constructed such that they cannot be removed from each other without causing structural damage to the sheet.

[0028] As used herein, unless the content explicitly indicates otherwise, the singular forms “a” and “the” also cover embodiments with plural references.

[0029] As used herein, unless the context explicitly indicates otherwise, "or" is generally used in the sense that it includes "one or the other or both".

[0030] The term "about" is used herein in conjunction with numerical values ​​to include normal variation in measured values ​​as would be expected by those skilled in the art, and should be understood to have the same meaning as "approximately". The term "about" should be understood to cover a typical range of error. A typical range of error could be, for example, ±5% of the stated value.

[0031] As used in this text, "having," "containing," "including," etc., are used in their open sense and generally mean "including (but not limited to)." It should be understood that phrases such as "basically composed of," "composed of," etc., fall under the category of "containing."

[0032] The terms "preferred" and "ideally" refer to embodiments of the invention that provide certain benefits in certain circumstances. However, other embodiments may also be preferred in the same or other circumstances. Furthermore, the description of one or more preferred embodiments does not imply that other embodiments are useless, and is not intended to exclude other embodiments from the scope of the disclosure including the claims.

[0033] As used herein, the term “substantially” has the same meaning as “significantly” and can be understood to modify terms preceding at least about 90%, at least about 95%, or at least about 98%. As used herein, the term “non-substantially” has the same meaning as “non-significantly” and can be understood to have the opposite meaning to “substantially”, i.e., modifying terms preceding no more than 10%, no more than 5%, or no more than 2%.

[0034] Any directions such as “top,” “bottom,” “left,” “right,” “upper,” “lower,” and other orientations or orientations mentioned herein for the sake of clarity and brevity are used, but are not intended to limit the actual apparatus or system. The apparatus and system described herein can be used in multiple directions and orientations.

[0035] This invention relates to an aerosol generating apparatus and a method thereof, the aerosol generating apparatus being configured to generate an inhalable aerosol using an aerosol generating article comprising an aerosol generating substrate (e.g., containing nicotine). This disclosure relates to an aerosol generating apparatus that can be used to generate an aerosol from an aerosol generating article. The apparatus may include a dosing delivery component capable of dosing or metering a portion of the aerosol generating article. The apparatus may include a delivery mechanism capable of conveying a portion to a heating element. The heating element may be capable of heating the portion to generate an aerosol. The aerosol generating article may contain nicotine. This disclosure relates to a method of dosing or metering a portion of an aerosol generating article in an aerosol generating apparatus. The aerosol generating article may be substantially flat. The aerosol generating article may have a planar shape. The aerosol generating article may include a sheet. The aerosol generating article may include an aerosol forming substrate. The aerosol forming substrate may be a gel containing an active ingredient. The active ingredient may be nicotine.

[0036] The aerosol generation apparatus disclosed herein offers various advantages. For example, the aerosol generation apparatus allows users to conveniently dose the aerosol-forming substrate for each inhalation or experience. The aerosol generation apparatus allows users to precisely meter a portion of the aerosol-generated article for each inhalation or experience. The aerosol generation apparatus allows users to select the amount of aerosol-forming substrate for each inhalation or experience. The aerosol generation apparatus allows users to select the flavor of the aerosol-generated article for each inhalation or experience. The aerosol generation apparatus allows users to track the amount of aerosol-forming substrate consumed during the experience.

[0037] In order to generate aerosols from an aerosol generating article, heat is delivered to the dosing section of the aerosol generating article, which is described as a "heat-non-combustible" process. When the dosing section is received in or transferred to a heated area, heat is generated by a heating element and delivered to the dosing section of the aerosol generating article.

[0038] An exemplary aerosol generating apparatus includes a housing or body that may be configured to hold or house components of the aerosol generating apparatus. The housing defines a cavity for receiving an aerosol-generated article. The cavity may be generally defined as any structure configured to mate with the aerosol-generated article. The housing may provide a chamber for generating aerosols for delivery to a user. The aerosol generating apparatus may include a heating element. The heating element may be positioned to generate aerosols within the chamber.

[0039] The housing may further define at least one air inlet and at least one outlet. The inlet and outlet connect the cavity to the outside of the housing in fluid communication. An airflow path may extend between at least one inlet and at least one outlet. The airflow path may pass through the chamber where the aerosol is formed. When the aerosol is inhaled by a user of the aerosol generating device, air may enter the housing through at least one inlet, pass through the chamber, and exit the housing through at least one outlet. The aerosol generating device includes a mouthpiece located at the outlet end of the housing.

[0040] The cavity can have any suitable shape and size to be configured to receive aerosol-generating articles of different shapes and sizes. The cavity can be a tray or box, or it can be box-shaped. This can facilitate the cavity receiving flat sheets of aerosol-generating articles. For example, the housing can define at least one planar surface. The cavity can be a tube extending along its axis (e.g., defining a tubular shape) for receiving tubular, cylindrical, or "rod"-shaped aerosol-generating articles. The tube can form an inner cylindrical surface facing the aerosol-generating article located therein. The housing can include closures, such as caps or doors. For example, a cap or hinged door can form one or more walls of the cavity, thereby enclosing the aerosol-generating article inside the cavity. Furthermore, the cap or hinged door can define a planar surface opposite the cavity, and thus, the aerosol-generating article can be sandwiched between the surface of the housing and the surface of the cap or door.

[0041] According to one embodiment, an aerosol generating apparatus includes a dosing delivery component positioned to dose or meter one or more portions of an aerosol-generating article. The dosing delivery component may define a cutting area. The dosing delivery component may be capable of dosing a desired amount or desired portion of the aerosol-generating article to form an aerosol. Advantageously, this allows for a more precise delivery of an active ingredient (such as nicotine) to the user with each inhalation compared to heating the entire aerosol-generating article at once. In some embodiments, the user can select a desired aerosol profile. The aerosol profile can determine the amount of deliverable active ingredient (such as nicotine). The aerosol profile can define the flavor properties of the aerosol. In some embodiments, the user can select a desired aerosolization profile to be adopted. The aerosolization profile can define one or more operating parameters of the aerosol generating apparatus over a period of time. For example, the aerosolization profile may include a temperature profile of a target temperature during a period of use of a predetermined time or number of inhalations. Therefore, the aerosolization profile can determine the amount of deliverable active ingredient (such as nicotine). In some embodiments, the aerosol generating apparatus can select a desired aerosol profile. For example, the controller of the aerosol generating apparatus can select a desired aerosol profile. This can, for example, be in response to determining the type of aerosol-generated article received by the aerosol generating apparatus. In some embodiments, the aerosol generating apparatus can select a desired aerosolization profile with a specific aerosolization method. For example, the controller of the aerosol generating apparatus can select a desired aerosolization profile. This can, for example, be in response to determining the type of aerosol-generated article received by the aerosol generating apparatus.

[0042] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating apparatus includes a conveying mechanism. The conveying mechanism can be configured to convey a portion of the aerosol-generated article cut by the dosing delivery component from the cutting area to the heating element.

[0043] In some embodiments, the aerosol generating article includes different portions of an aerosol forming substrate, each portion including a different flavor. For example, the aerosol generating article may include a first portion of the aerosol forming substrate containing a first flavoring and a second portion of the aerosol forming substrate containing a second flavoring. A user can select a desired flavor based on their position on the aerosol generating article. For example, a user can select a desired flavor on the user interface of the aerosol generating device. In response, the aerosol generating device can identify a region of the desired flavor in the aerosol generating article received by the aerosol generating device. A cutting mechanism of the dosing delivery component can cut a portion of the aerosol forming substrate from the identified region of the aerosol generating article. A conveying mechanism of the dosing delivery component can convey the cut portion to the heating area of ​​the aerosol generating device. A conveying mechanism of the dosing delivery component can convey the cut portion to the heating element of the aerosol generating device.

[0044] According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating apparatus includes a controller. The controller includes one or more processors (e.g., microprocessors). The controller may be operatively connected to a dosing delivery assembly. The controller may be operatively connected to a cutting mechanism. The controller may be operatively connected to a delivery mechanism. The controller may be operatively connected to a heating element. The controller may be configured to perform various functions. For example, the controller may be configured to identify at least one characteristic of the aerosol-generated article. The controller may be configured to determine which portion of the aerosol-generated article has not yet been cut. The controller may be configured to determine which portion of the aerosol-generated article has been cut. The controller may be configured to determine which portion of the aerosol-generated article is available for cutting. The controller may be configured to receive input. The input may be provided by a user. The aerosol generating apparatus may include a user interface from which the user can provide input. The user interface may include one or both of a touchscreen display and one or more actuable buttons. The input may be provided via one or more sensing devices. The controller may be configured to determine which portion of the aerosol-generated article to be cut based on the input.

[0045] According to one embodiment, a user can insert an aerosol-generating article into an aerosol-generating device. The user can initiate the dosing of the aerosol-generating article via a dosing delivery component. For example, the user can turn on the device or actuate the dosing delivery component. The user can input inputs into the device to instruct the dosing delivery component to provide a desired aerosol profile, a desired aerosolization profile, or both. For example, the user can input the amount of aerosol, the amount of active ingredient, flavor, etc. The dosing delivery component can determine an appropriate amount or portion of the aerosol-generating article. The dosing delivery component can dosing (e.g., cutting) an appropriate amount or portion of the aerosol-generating article. A conveying mechanism can convey the cut portion to a heating element. The heating element can heat the conveyed cut portion to generate an aerosol. The user can draw in the aerosol through the outlet of the aerosol-generating device.

[0046] According to one embodiment, the dosing delivery component is capable of accurately dosing an aerosol-forming material. The aerosol-forming material can be dosed with each aspiration or each experience. The dosing delivery component can be configured to cut a portion of an aerosol-generating article comprising the aerosol-forming material. The size of this portion can be predetermined. A dose can be considered equivalent to a cut portion of the aerosol-generating article. The user can consume this dose in a single aspiration. In other words, one portion can be used to deliver a single aspiration. Alternatively, multiple portions can be used to deliver a single aspiration. Furthermore, the dose can be provided for multiple aspirations and consumed during a single experience. In other words, one portion can be used to deliver multiple aspirations.

[0047] The dosage delivery assembly may include a cutting mechanism. The cutting mechanism can cut a portion of the aerosol-generating article. The cutting mechanism may include blades. The blades may include straight or circular blades, such as tubular blades. In some embodiments, the cutting mechanism includes a single or only one blade. In some embodiments, the cutting mechanism includes at least one or more blades. In some embodiments, the cutting mechanism includes two or more blades. For example, the cutting mechanism may include a first blade configured to cut in a first direction and a second blade configured to cut in a second direction.

[0048] The second direction can be different from the first direction.

[0049] The blades or blades may be movable. For example, one or more blades may be movable in a direction perpendicular to a plane perpendicular to the main surface of the aerosol-generating article. One or more blades may be movable parallel to the main surface of the aerosol-generating article. For example, one or more blades may be a circular blade that is rotatably movable to cut the aerosol-generating article. The cutting mechanism may include a positioning system. The positioning system may be configured to position the aerosol-generating article for cutting. Alternatively, the aerosol-generating article may be fixed during cutting. Furthermore, one of the blades may be fixed (immobile). The positioning system may include any suitable mechanism capable of moving the aerosol-generating article. The positioning system may act as a support for the aerosol-generating article. The positioning system may be configured to push the aerosol-generating article against the cutting edge. In this way, the cutting edge can cut the aerosol-generating article. The positioning system may include one or more screws or springs. Furthermore, one or more blades may be coupled to any suitable mechanism capable of moving one or more blades in a predetermined direction and over a predetermined distance. For example, one or more blades may be moved by a screw system.

[0050] The dose delivery assembly may include motors or other mechanisms for providing motion to the cutting mechanism, positioning system, and delivery mechanism.

[0051] The cutting mechanism may include a blade grid. As used herein, the term "blade grid" refers to blades arranged in a grid, wherein the cutting edges of the blades point in the same direction (e.g., downwards). The blade grid may be configured to simultaneously cut the aerosol-generating article into multiple portions. The blade grid may be configured to simultaneously cut the entire aerosol-generating article into portions. The blade grid may be configured to cut the aerosol-generating article into all portions of the same or different sizes.

[0052] The blade mesh can move vertically (in a direction perpendicular to the mesh plane). The blade mesh can move horizontally (in the plane of the mesh). In some embodiments, the blade mesh and the cut aerosol-generating article can translate in a first direction. In some embodiments, the blade mesh and the cut aerosol-generating article can translate in both a first and a second direction. For example, the blade mesh and the cut aerosol-generating article can be moved such that a particular cut portion of the aerosol-generating article can be positioned near (e.g., below) the conveying mechanism to be transferred to the heating zone.

[0053] Users can provide input to the aerosol generating apparatus to select an aerosolization profile or aerosol profile (e.g., desired amount, intensity, or flavor). The aerosol generating apparatus may include an identification system capable of recognizing the type of aerosol-generated article. The aerosol generating apparatus may include an identification system capable of recognizing the location of cut portions of the aerosol generating apparatus. The aerosol generating apparatus may include sensors capable of detecting the presence of cut portions of aerosol-generated articles in the compartments of the blade grid. A controller can determine which one or more cut portions are delivered to the heating element to achieve the selected aerosolization profile, aerosol profile, or both. For example, the controller can determine which portion matches a selected flavor, or which portions are combined to match a selected flavor, or how many portions are combined to match a selected amount or intensity. The controller can determine what heating profile is applied to one or more cut portions. The heating profile can define, for example, heating temperature, heating rate, or a combination of heating temperature and heating rate.

[0054] The cutting mechanism may include a stamping cutter. The stamping cutter can cut a single portion at a time. As used herein, the term "stamping cutter" refers to a cutting mechanism capable of cutting a material shape from the middle of a sheet of aerosol-generating substrate in a single motion. The stamping cutter is similar to a cookie cutter because the blades are configured to cut all the cutting edges of the sheet at once. The stamping cutter can cut a portion from anywhere on the aerosol-generating article. The stamping cutter can cut a portion at a desired or selected location on the aerosol-generating article. The stamping cutter may include a hollow core surrounded by blades. The stamping cutter can have any suitable shape or size. In some embodiments, the stamping cutter is shaped to cut square or rectangular portions of the aerosol-generating article. The kerf size can be set such that the sides of the aerosol-generating article are multiples of the kerf size. This allows the entire aerosol-generating article to be utilized without waste. The stamping cutter may also act as or include a pushing member configured to push (e.g., move) the cut portion of the aerosol-generating article. Pushing can be achieved by compressed gas. The actuation can be achieved by a biasing element such as a spring.

[0055] The stamping cutter can move in a cutting direction perpendicular to the main surface of the aerosol-generating article. The stamping cutter can also move in one or more directions parallel to the main surface of the aerosol-generating article. This allows the stamping cutter to be positioned near the desired cut location on the aerosol-generating article.

[0056] In one embodiment, the cut portion, produced by a stamping cutter, falls onto a heating element due to gravity. The heating element heats the cut portion. The cut portion can melt into droplets, which then form an aerosol.

[0057] In some embodiments, the heating element may be fluid-permeable. The heating element may include a plurality of filaments. The plurality of filaments may form a mesh or array of filaments, or may include a woven or nonwoven fabric. In some embodiments, the plurality of filaments may include a sensor material. In some embodiments, the plurality of filaments may be a plurality of conductive filaments. The plurality of conductive filaments may be connected to a first conductive contact portion and a second conductive contact portion, wherein the first and second conductive contact portions are configured to allow contact with an external power source. The first and second conductive contact portions may be positioned on opposite sides of each other. In some embodiments, the heating element may include one or more openings. Advantageously, a fluid-permeable heating element may act as a capillary transport tool for melting or evaporating an aerosol-forming substrate. Advantageously, a fluid-permeable heating element (particularly a mesh heating element) may act as a capillary transport tool for melting or evaporating an aerosol-forming substrate. For example, when a cut portion of an aerosol-forming substrate is applied (e.g., dropped) onto a heating element, the heating element may heat the cut portion, melting it into droplets. Droplets can be transported via capillary action from a mesh heating element. For example, droplets can be drawn towards the airflow channel of an aerosol generating device. Air in the airflow channel may carry droplets to form an aerosol.

[0058] In one embodiment, the cutting mechanism includes a stamping cutter, and the stamping cutter includes a heating element configured to heat the cut portion of the aerosol-generating article. The stamping cutter may be configured to hold the cut portion. The cut portion of the aerosol-generating article may be held inside the stamping cutter to be heated. The hollow center of the stamping cutter may be connected to the airflow path of the aerosol-generating device. For example, the hollow center may be surrounded by a wall including an inlet and an outlet. The hollow center may be surrounded by insulating material on one or more sides.

[0059] In some embodiments, the cutting mechanism can engage the aerosol-generating article in a vertical direction. That is, the cutting mechanism can engage the aerosol-generating article in a direction perpendicular to a plane perpendicular to the main surface of the aerosol-generating article. In some embodiments, the cutting mechanism (e.g., a blade) can engage the aerosol-generating article in a direction not perpendicular to the plane of the main surface of the aerosol-generating article. For example, the blade can engage the aerosol-generating article in a direction parallel to the plane of the main surface of the aerosol-generating article.

[0060] The dosage delivery assembly may include a support member against which a cutting mechanism cuts the aerosol-generated product.

[0061] According to one embodiment, the dosing delivery assembly includes a conveying mechanism for conveying a portion of the aerosol-generating article to a heating element. The conveying mechanism may include a pushing member. The pushing member may be configured to push (e.g., move) a cut portion of the aerosol-generating article. The pushing member may be configured to push one or more cut portions of the aerosol-generating article with a blade grid. The pushing member may be configured to push one or more portions cut by the blades. The pushing member may be oriented to push the cut portion along a plane of the main surface of the aerosol-generating article. The pushing member may be oriented to push the cut portion along a plane perpendicular to the main surface of the aerosol-generating article. In some embodiments, the conveying mechanism includes a gravity feed path that allows the portion to fall onto or into the heating element.

[0062] The dosing delivery assembly may include a system capable of identifying and locating compartments or portions of the aerosol-generating article within a grid. For example, the dosing delivery assembly may include a controller comprising one or more processors. The controller may be configured to control the dosing delivery assembly to move the aerosol-generating article or a cutting mechanism, or both. The controller may be configured to control a delivery mechanism to move a pushing member.

[0063] The controller may be able to receive input. For example, the controller may be able to receive input from a user. Possible inputs include keyed connections, readers such as RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) readers, and sensors. The input receiver may allow the user to select a desired aerosol profile, aerosolization profile, or both. The desired aerosol profile or aerosolization profile may include the amount of aerosol, the number of aspirations, the amount of active ingredient (e.g., concentration or total amount), flavor, etc. The input receiver may allow the user to select the amount (e.g., the amount of aerosol), the number of aspirations, or the amount of active ingredient (e.g., concentration or total amount). The input receiver may allow the user to select one or more specific portions of the aerosol-generated article, which may have different amounts (e.g., flavor or active ingredient) than other portions.

[0064] The controller can be configured to determine which one or more portions of the aerosol-generated article should be cut. For example, the controller can be configured to determine which one or more portions of the aerosol-generated article have not yet been cut. The controller can be configured to determine which one or more portions of the aerosol-generated article have been cut. The controller can be configured to determine which one or more portions of the aerosol-generated article are available for cutting. The controller can be configured to determine which portion to cut based on received input. The controller can be configured to determine the amount of aerosol-generated article to cut based on received input.

[0065] The controller may include a sensor for sensing the presence of an aerosol-generating article or a portion thereof. For example, the controller may include an IR sensor.

[0066] Aerosol generating apparatus may include a controller comprising one or more processors (e.g., microprocessors). The one or more processors may operate in conjunction with an associated data storage device or memory to access processing programs or routines and one or more types of data that can be used to perform exemplary methods. For example, processing programs or routines stored in the data storage device may include programs or routines for controlling one or more of a dose delivery component, a delivery mechanism, and a heating element; individually controlling each of one or more of the dose delivery component, delivery mechanism, and heating element; implementing a program or scheme using one or more of the dose delivery component, delivery mechanism, and heating element; analyzing or identifying aerosol generating articles; invoking one or more characteristics of identified aerosol generating articles; invoking one or more programs associated with one or more characteristics of identified aerosol generating articles; controlling blade movement; positioning systems; heating of the delivery mechanism and heating element; normalization algorithms; comparison algorithms; or any other processing for implementing one or more exemplary methods and processes described herein. The data storage device or memory may also be configured to store data relating to one or more of the type, size, shape, contents, year, brand, and density of the aerosol generating article; one or more other characteristics of the aerosol generating article; one or more processes or schemes for heating various aerosol generating articles using one or more of a dosing delivery assembly, a delivery mechanism, and a heating element; aerosol generation or generation parameters (such as power values ​​and time values) relating to one or more types of aerosol generating articles and materials; data and formulas relating to the generation of particulate matter using aerosol generating articles or materials; and any other data or formulas required to perform the processes and methods described herein.

[0067] In one or more embodiments, the aerosol generating apparatus can be described as being implemented using one or more computer programs executing on one or more programmable processors, the programmable processors including processing power (e.g., microcontrollers or programmable logic devices), data memory (e.g., volatile or non-volatile memory or storage elements), input devices, and output devices. The program code or logic described herein can be applied to input data to perform the functions described herein and generate desired output information. The output information can be applied as input to one or more other devices or processes, as described herein or to be applied in a known manner.

[0068] A computer program product for implementing the processes described herein can be provided using any programmable language (e.g., a high-level procedural or object-oriented programming language suitable for communicating with a computer system). Any such program product can be stored, for example, on any suitable device, such as a storage medium readable by a general-purpose or special-purpose program, for configuring and operating a computer's controller device when the suitable device is accessed to perform the processes described herein. In other words, at least in one embodiment, an aerosol generating apparatus can be implemented using a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium configured with a computer program, wherein the storage medium is configured to cause the computer to operate in a specific and predefined manner to perform the functions described herein.

[0069] The exact configuration of the controller for the aerosol generating apparatus is not limiting, and substantially any apparatus capable of providing suitable computing and control capabilities to implement the method can be used. In view of the foregoing, it will be apparent that the functionality can be implemented in any manner known to those skilled in the art. Thus, the computer language, controller, or any other software / hardware used to implement the processes described herein should not limit the scope of the systems, processes, or programs described herein (e.g., the functionality provided by these processes or programs). The methods and processes described in this disclosure can be implemented at least in part in hardware, software, firmware, or any combination thereof, including those belonging to a system or various components. For example, various embodiments of the technology can be implemented in one or more processors, including one or more microprocessors, DSPs, ASICs, FPGAs, CPLDs, microcontrollers, or any other equivalent integrated or discrete logic circuit systems, and any combination of such components. When implemented in software, the functionality belonging to the systems, apparatus, and methods described in this disclosure can be embodied in instructions on a computer-readable medium, such as RAM, ROM, NVRAM, EEPROM, FLASH memory, magnetic data storage media, optical data storage media, etc. The instructions can be executed by one or more processors to support one or more embodiments of the functionality.

[0070] The controller of the aerosol generation device can be operatively coupled to a power source and one or both of the dose delivery components (e.g., cutting mechanism, positioning system, and delivery mechanism) and heating elements to control the function of one or both of the dose delivery components (e.g., cutting mechanism, positioning system, and delivery mechanism) and heating elements. Therefore, the controller can independently energize (“on”) or de-energize (“off”) one or both of the dose delivery components (e.g., cutting mechanism, positioning system, and delivery mechanism) and heating elements using the circuitry and power source.

[0071] In one implementation, the controller can be described as operatively coupled to one or both of the dose delivery components (e.g., a cutting mechanism, a positioning system, and a delivery mechanism) and the heating element to perform one or more of the following operations: identifying the aerosol-generated article; receiving input from the user; determining which portions of the aerosol-generated article have not been cut or used; determining which portions of the aerosol-generated article have been cut or used; determining which portion of the aerosol-generated article needs to be cut; positioning the aerosol-generated article; cutting a portion of the aerosol-generated article; transferring the cut portion; or heating the cut portion. In other words, each of the dose delivery components (e.g., a cutting mechanism, a positioning system, and a delivery mechanism) and the heating element can be addressed by the controller.

[0072] According to one embodiment, an aerosol generating apparatus is configured to receive an aerosol-generated article. The aerosol-generated article can have any suitable type, shape, and size. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generated article is in the shape of a flat sheet. The flat sheet may include two opposing main surfaces. The flat sheet may include multiple layers. The aerosol-generated article may contain a gel, solid, or semi-solid material. The gel, solid, or semi-solid material may contain an aerosol-forming substrate. The gel, solid, or semi-solid material may contain tobacco-based materials. The gel, solid, or semi-solid material may contain an active ingredient. The active ingredient may be nicotine. The gel, solid, or semi-solid material may form a central layer sandwiched between the outer layers.

[0073] The outer layer can be a protective layer configured to allow a user to dispose of aerosol-generated articles without contact with the central layer. The outer layer can be configured to shield or protect the layer containing the active ingredient. The outer layer can comprise any suitable material. In one embodiment, the outer layer comprises a fibrous material. The outer layer can have a composition that does not interfere with the active ingredient during storage, disposal, or use (e.g., heating). The outer layer can be gas-permeable. The outer layer can be liquid-impermeable.

[0074] Aerosol-generating articles can be segmented by cutting them into sheets. Aerosol-generating articles may include flat sheets. Advantageously, flat sheets can be easily cut into a grid. Flat sheets may include multiple layers. Aerosol-generating articles may have a predetermined thickness. Preferably, the predetermined thickness is uniformly distributed throughout the aerosol-generating article. The uniform thickness of the aerosol-generating article allows for accurate dose delivery of the active ingredient via a dosing delivery assembly. In some embodiments, the thickness of the aerosol-generating article varies by less than 25%, less than 20%, less than 10%, or less than 5% throughout the aerosol-generating article. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating article has different shapes, such as tubular, cylindrical, or "rod" shapes.

[0075] Some parts of an aerosol-generated article may have a different composition than the other parts. For example, some parts of an aerosol-generated article may have a different flavor than the other parts. Some parts of an aerosol-generated article may have different active ingredients or different concentrations of active ingredients than the other parts.

[0076] In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating article comprises a gel. For example, the aerosol-generating substrate of the aerosol-generating article may be in the form of a gel. Advantageously, the gel is solid at room temperature and can be easily disposed of by a user. The aerosol-generating article may include one or more outer layers. The one or more outer layers may be protective outer layers. Advantageously, providing outer layers can facilitate user disposal of the article. The aerosol-generating article may include a gel (e.g., a gel sheet) sandwiched between two protective outer layers, one of which is disposed on each side of the gel sheet.

[0077] In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating substrate contains nicotine. Nicotine may be contained in the aerosol-generating substrate in the form of a free base or a salt. The aerosol-generating substrate may contain nicotine at a concentration of 1% by weight or more, 1.5% by weight or more, or 2% by weight or more. The aerosol-generating substrate may contain nicotine at a concentration of 4% by weight or less, 3% by weight or less, or 2.5% by weight or less. In one embodiment, the aerosol-generating substrate contains about 2% by weight of nicotine.

[0078] In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating substrate comprises a gel including an active ingredient and one or more gelling agents. The active ingredient may include nicotine. Nicotine may be contained in the gel in the form of a free base or a salt. The gel may contain nicotine at a concentration of 1% or more, 1.5% or more, or 2% or more by weight. The gel may contain nicotine at a concentration of 4% or less, 3% or less, or 2.5% or less by weight. In one embodiment, the gel contains about 2% by weight of nicotine. One or more gelling agents may include biopolymers. Examples of suitable biopolymers include polysaccharides such as gellan gum (natural, low-acyl, and high-acyl gellan gum), xanthan gum, alginate, agar (a mixture of agarose and agar gum), agarose, guar gum, etc. The gel may contain gelling agents at a concentration of 1% or more, 1.5% or more by weight, or 2% or more by weight. The gel may contain a gelling agent at a concentration of 7% by weight or less, 5% by weight or less, or 3% by weight or less.

[0079] The aerosol-generating substrate may contain additional components such as flavorings, aerosol-forming agents, water, and gelling-aiding compounds. In one embodiment, the aerosol-generating substrate contains one or more flavorings. These flavorings may contain tobacco flavors. Examples of suitable tobacco flavors include synthetic and naturally derived tobacco components. Naturally derived tobacco components may include volatile flavor or flavor compounds obtained from tobacco plant material. Such components can be obtained by any suitable method, such as extraction, drying, milling, etc. Synthetic tobacco components may contain flavor molecules present in tobacco leaves, such as β-damascene, α-ionone and 3-oxo-α-ionone, β-ionone and 4-oxo-β-ionone, theanone, 2-ethyl-3,5-dimethylpyrazine, phenylacetaldehyde, guaiacol, and furanol. Other suitable flavorings include, for example, natural or synthetic menthol, mint, spearmint, coffee, tea, spices (such as cinnamon, cloves, ginger, or combinations thereof), cocoa, vanilla, fruit flavors, chocolate, eucalyptus, geranium, eugenol, agave, juniper, anethole, linalool, and any combination thereof.

[0080] In one embodiment, the aerosol-generating substrate (e.g., a gel) comprises glycerol. For example, the aerosol-generating substrate may contain glycerol at a concentration of 50% by weight or more, 60% by weight or more, or 70% by weight or more. The aerosol-generating substrate may contain glycerol at a concentration of 95% by weight or less, 90% by weight or less, or 80% by weight or less. In one embodiment, the aerosol-generating substrate comprises water. For example, the aerosol-generating substrate may contain water at a concentration of 10% by weight or more, 15% by weight or more, or 20% by weight or more. The aerosol-generating substrate may contain water at a concentration of 25% by weight or less, 20% by weight or less, or 15% by weight or less. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating substrate contains no or substantially no water.

[0081] In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating substrate comprises a gel including one or more divalent cations. Examples of suitable divalent cations include compounds comprising calcium, such as calcium lactate in solution. The divalent cation may be present in the gel at a concentration of 0.1% by weight or greater, or 0.5% by weight or greater. The divalent cation may be present in the gel at a concentration of 1% by weight or less. In some embodiments, the gel comprises one or more carboxylic acids. The carboxylic acid may contain a ketone group. The carboxylic acid may have 10 or fewer carbon atoms. Preferably, the carboxylic acid has 5 carbon atoms. Preferably, the carboxylic acid is levulinic acid.

[0082] An example of a suitable aerosol-generating substrate is a gel comprising nicotine and one or more gelling agents. The gel may contain 1% to 4% wt% nicotine. The gel may contain 1% to 7% wt% gelling agent. The gel may contain 50% to 70% wt% glycerol. The gel may contain flavorings, such as tobacco extracts. The gel composition may contain a gelling agent forming a solid medium, glycerol dispersed in the solid medium, and nicotine dispersed in the glycerol.

[0083] The aerosol-generating substrate (e.g., a gel) can be cut into portions using a cutting mechanism of the dosing delivery assembly. The cut portions of the gel can be conveyed to a heating element via a conveying mechanism. When the gel is heated by the heating element, glycerol and nicotine form an aerosol that can be inhaled by a user. In some embodiments, the heating element includes a mesh heating element. The cut portions of the gel can be applied (e.g., dropped) onto the mesh heating element, causing the gel to melt into droplets. The droplets can be transported by capillary action of the mesh heating element. For example, the droplets can be drawn toward an airflow channel of the aerosol-generating device. Air in the airflow channel may carry the droplets to form an aerosol.

[0084] Aerosol generating devices can be configured to produce the desired suction resistance (RTD). The RTD of an aerosol generating device will vary depending on the length and dimensions of the passage, the size of the orifice, the size of the narrowest cross-sectional area of ​​the internal passage, and the materials used. In certain embodiments, the RTD of the aerosol generating device is between 50 mm H2O and 140 mm H2O, between 60 mm H2O and 120 mm H2O, or between 80 mm H2O and 100 mm H2O. The RTD of an article refers to the static pressure difference between one or more orifices of the article and the orifice of the article when the article is passed through the internal longitudinal passage under steady-state conditions, at which the volumetric flow rate at the orifice is 17.5 mL / s. The RTD of a sample can be measured using the method specified in ISO standard 6565:2002.

[0085] In certain embodiments, the aerosol generating apparatus comprises plastic materials; metallic materials; cellulose materials (such as cellulose acetate); paper; cardboard; cotton; or combinations thereof.

[0086] The aerosol generating apparatus preferably includes control electronics operatively coupled to a heating element. The control electronics can be configured to control the heating of the heating element. The control electronics can be part of a controller or may include additional components. The control electronics may include, for example, a thermostat or a thermocouple. Attached Figure Description

[0087] Referring now to the accompanying drawings, which depict one or more embodiments described in this disclosure. However, it should be understood that other embodiments not depicted in the drawings fall within the scope and spirit of this disclosure. Similar designations used in the drawings refer to similar parts, steps, etc. However, it should be understood that the use of designations to refer to a part in a given drawing is not intended to limit a part labeled with the same designation in another drawing. Furthermore, the use of different designations to refer to parts in different drawings is not intended to indicate that parts with different designations cannot be the same as or similar to parts with other designations. The drawings are presented for illustrative purposes and not for limitation. The schematic diagrams presented in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale.

[0088] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of an exemplary aerosol generating apparatus according to an embodiment.

[0089] Figure 2 It is used according to the implementation plan. Figure 1 A perspective view of an exemplary aerosol-generating article in an aerosol-generating apparatus.

[0090] Figure 3 It is for cutting according to the implementation plan. Figure 2 A schematic perspective view of an exemplary blade of an aerosol-generated article.

[0091] Figure 4 It is for cutting according to the implementation plan. Figure 2 A schematic perspective view of an exemplary first and second blade of an aerosol-generated article.

[0092] Figure 5A It is for cutting according to the implementation plan. Figure 2 A schematic perspective view of an exemplary stamping and cutting blade for aerosol-generated articles.

[0093] Figure 5B It is based on the implementation plan. Figure 5A A cross-sectional view of a stamping and cutting blade.

[0094] Figure 6A It is for cutting according to the implementation plan. Figure 2 A schematic perspective view of an exemplary blade grid of an aerosol-generated article.

[0095] Figure 6B It is for cutting according to the implementation plan. Figure 2 Aerosol-generated products Figure 6A A schematic perspective view of the blade grid.

[0096] Figure 7 It is used for positioning according to the implementation plan. Figure 2 A schematic perspective view of a positioning system for cutting aerosol-generated articles.

[0097] Figure 8 It is used for transmission according to the implementation plan. Figure 2 A schematic perspective view of the conveying mechanism for the cutting section of the aerosol-generated product.

[0098] Figure 9 It is based on the implementation plan. Figure 6B Blade mesh and cut aerosol-generating products and Figure 8 A schematic perspective view of the transmission mechanism. Detailed Implementation

[0099] Figure 1 An exemplary aerosol generating device 1 is shown. The aerosol generating device 1 may include a housing 10. Although a particular shape of the housing is shown, many other shapes are also possible. The aerosol generating device 1 is not particularly limited by the shape of the housing. Figure 1 In this exemplary embodiment, the housing 10 extends from a first end 11 to a second end 12. The first end 11 may include a mouthpiece end. The housing 10 may include or define a cavity 13 for receiving the aerosol-generating article 20. The size and shape of the cavity 13 may be set accordingly. For example, Figure 1 The cavity 13 of the device 1 defines a rectangular or box-shaped region for receiving a generally thin rectangular aerosol-generating article 20.

[0100] The housing 10 may include one or more inlets 14 extending from the outside of the cavity 13 to the inside of the cavity for air intake. The housing 10 may include one or more outlets 15 extending from the inside of the cavity 13 to the outside of the cavity for air exhaust. An airflow path extends from the inlet 14 to the outlet 15, passing through at least a portion of the cavity 13. In this way, a user can inhale from a first end 11 of the aerosol generating device 10 to draw in airflow through the cavity 13 from one or more inlets 14 and exhaust it from the outlet 15, thereby delivering the aerosol to the user. For example, the airflow path is... Figure 1 The arrow 100 shown indicates this.

[0101] The housing 10 of the aerosol generating apparatus 1 may further include a door 17 for inserting the aerosol-generated article into the cavity 13. The door 17 may form a wall of the cavity 13.

[0102] The housing 10 of the aerosol generating device 1 can accommodate components of the aerosol generating device. For example, the housing 10 can accommodate a dose delivery assembly 2, a heating element 8, and a controller 16. The dose delivery assembly 2 may include a cutting mechanism 4 and a conveying mechanism 6. The cutting mechanism 4 can define a cutting area. The heating element 8 can define a heating area. The conveying mechanism 6 can be configured to convey the cut portion from the cutting area to the heating area to be heated by the heating element 8. The controller 16 can be operatively connected to the dose delivery assembly 2 and the heating element 8. The aerosol generating device 1 may include a power source 18 such as a battery.

[0103] exist Figure 2 An exemplary embodiment of an aerosol generating article 20 is shown. The aerosol generating article 20 can have any suitable type, shape, and size. In the illustrated embodiment, the aerosol generating article 20 is in the shape of a flat sheet. The flat sheet may include outer layers 22, 23 defining two opposing main surfaces. The aerosol generating article 20 may include an aerosol forming substrate 21. The aerosol forming substrate 21 may be a layer of gel, solid, or semi-solid material. The gel, solid, or semi-solid material may contain tobacco-based materials. The gel, solid, or semi-solid material may contain an active ingredient. The active ingredient may be nicotine. The aerosol forming substrate 21 may form a central layer sandwiched between the outer layers 22, 23.

[0104] The dosage delivery assembly 2 may include a cutting mechanism 4 disposed in the cutting area and configured to cut a portion from the aerosol-generated article received by the aerosol-generating device. (Refer to now) Figure 3 The cutting mechanism 4 may include a blade 40. The blade 40 may be configured to engage the aerosol-generating article 20 in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the main surface (outer layer) 22. Alternatively, the blade 40 may be configured to engage the aerosol-generating article in a direction parallel to the plane of the main surface (outer layer) 22. According to one embodiment, the blade 40 is configured to cut a portion 24 of the aerosol-generating article.

[0105] The cutting mechanism 4 may include more than one blade. Figure 4 In the illustrated embodiment, the cutting mechanism 4 includes a first blade 41 and a second blade 42. The first blade 41 is movable in a first cutting direction 410, and the second blade 42 is movable in a second cutting direction 420. The blades can move along... Figure 4 The cutting lines 411 and 421, as shown by the dashed lines, can be moved. The portion 24 of the aerosol-generated article 20 can be cut by cutting a larger portion along the first cutting line 411 and then cutting the portion 24 from the larger portion along the second cutting line 421.

[0106] The cutting mechanism 4 may include a stamping cutting blade 43, such as Figure 5A and Figure 5B As shown. The stamping cutter 43 may include a hollow tube that can be pushed against the aerosol generating article 20 to cut a portion 24 of the aerosol generating article 20.

[0107] In some implementations, such as Figure 5B As shown, the stamping cutter 43 can be configured to retain the cutting portion 24 within the body of the stamping cutter 43. The stamping cutter 43 may include a heating element 438 configured to heat the cutting portion 24 of the aerosol generating article 20. The heating element 438 may be porous to allow aerosol to pass through it. The body of the stamping cutter 43 may have a hollow center 434 for collecting aerosol formed by heating the cutting portion 24. The hollow center 434 may include an inlet 432 and an outlet 433 connecting it to an airflow path of the aerosol generating apparatus 1. The stamping cutter 43 may include a heat insulation element 435. The heat insulation element 435 may surround the hollow center 434 on one or more sides.

[0108] The cutting mechanism 4 may include a blade grid 46, such as Figure 6A and Figure 6B As shown. The blade grid 46 may include multiple blades 461, 462 forming the grid. The blade grid 46 is capable of cutting the aerosol-generating article 20 into multiple cut portions in one operation. The blade grid 46 is capable of cutting the entire aerosol-generating article 20 into cut portions in one operation. The cutting mechanism 4 can cut the aerosol-generating article 20 against the support surface 464, such as... Figure 6B As shown.

[0109] For reference Figure 7The dosage delivery assembly 2 may include a positioning system 50 for positioning the aerosol generating article 20 or a portion thereof for cutting. The positioning system 50 may include one or more biasing members 51, 52. For example, the positioning system 50 may include a first biasing member 51 configured to push the aerosol generating article 20 in a first direction. Pushing the aerosol generating article 20 in the first direction may push the aerosol generating article 20 to a position where it intersects with the cutting line 411 of at least one blade. The positioning system 50 may include a second biasing member 52 configured to push the aerosol generating article 20 or a portion thereof in a second direction. The second direction may be different from the first direction. In some embodiments, the second direction is perpendicular to the first direction. Pushing the aerosol generating article 20 or a portion thereof in the second direction may push the aerosol generating article 20 or a portion thereof to a position where the aerosol generating article 20 or a portion thereof intersects the cutting line 421 of at least one blade (e.g., a second blade). The biasing members 51, 52 may include a pushing member and may be actuated by any suitable mechanism, such as by a screw, pin, spring, compressed gas, etc.

[0110] Now for reference Figure 8 The dosage delivery assembly 2 may include a delivery mechanism 6. The delivery mechanism 6 may include one or more actuating members 61. The one or more actuating members may be linearly translated upwards in a first direction and optionally in a second direction and optionally in a third direction. The actuating members 61 may be translated by, for example, a biasing member 62 or a screw. The actuating members 61 may be configured to engage the cut portion 24 of the aerosol generating article 20 and deliver (e.g., push) it from the cut area to the vicinity of the heating element 8. The actuating members 61 may translate the cut portion 24 in the first and second directions. The actuating members 61 may translate the cut portion 24 upwards in a third direction.

[0111] The conveying mechanism 6 can be combined with any of the cutting mechanisms described above. In one example, the conveying mechanism 6 can be combined with the blade grid 46, such as... Figure 9As shown. After the aerosol generating article 20 has been cut by the blade mesh 46, the pushing member 61 of the conveying mechanism 6 can be used to push one or more cut portions 24 of the aerosol generating article 20 onto the heating element 8. The heating element 8 can be any suitable type of heating element, such as a mesh heating element. The blade mesh 46 and the cut aerosol generating article 20 can be translated in a first direction 461 and a second direction 462. The blade mesh 46 and the cut aerosol generating article 20 can be moved to position a particular cut portion 24 adjacent to the conveying member 61, such that the conveying member 61 can engage the desired cut portion 24. This process can be repeated for one or more additional cut portions 24 to combine the cut portions 24 to produce desired flavor properties. For example, the cut portions can be combined to increase the amount of aerosol forming substrate or to produce a desired flavor mixture.

[0112] Therefore, exemplary apparatus and methods using a dose delivery component have been described. Various modifications and variations of the invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention. Although the invention has been described in conjunction with specific preferred embodiments, it should be understood that the invention as claimed should not be unduly limited to such specific embodiments. Indeed, it will be apparent to those skilled in the electrical, computer, and aerosol generation apparatus manufacturing or related fields that various modifications to the described modes of implementation of the invention are intended to fall within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. An aerosol-generating device comprising a heating element; a dose delivery assembly, the dose delivery assembly comprising: a cutting mechanism disposed in a cutting region and configured to cut a portion from an aerosol-generating article received by the aerosol-generating device, the cutting mechanism comprising: a punch cutting blade comprising a hollow core surrounded by a blade; or a first blade having a first cutting direction and a second blade having a second cutting direction; or a grid of blades; and a transfer mechanism configured to transfer the cut portion of the aerosol-generating article from the cutting region to the heating element.

2. The aerosol-generating device of claim 1, wherein the cutting mechanism comprises a first blade having a first cutting direction and a second blade having a second cutting direction, wherein the second cutting direction is different from the first cutting direction, optionally wherein the second cutting direction is perpendicular to the first cutting direction.

3. The aerosol-generating device of claim 2, wherein the first blade is movable in the first cutting direction and the second blade is movable in the second cutting direction.

4. The aerosol-generating device of claim 1, wherein the cutting mechanism comprises a grid of blades configured to simultaneously cut the aerosol-generating article into multiple portions.

5. The aerosol-generating device of claim 1, wherein the transfer mechanism comprises a push member linearly translatable in a first direction and optionally in a second direction and optionally in a third direction.

6. The aerosol-generating device of claim 1, wherein the dose delivery assembly comprises a controller comprising one or more processors, the controller configured to: determine which portion or portions of the aerosol-generating article have not been cut or have been cut; or determine which portion or portions of the aerosol-generating article are available for cutting; or both.

7. The aerosol-generating device of claim 1, wherein the dose delivery assembly comprises a controller comprising one or more processors, the controller configured to: receive an input defining a desired aerosol profile, aerosolization profile, or both; and determine, based on the received input, one or more of: an amount of the aerosol-generating article to cut; which portion of the aerosol-generating article to cut.

8. A method of dose delivery of an aerosol-generating article using the aerosol-generating device of claim 1, the method comprising: placing the aerosol-generating article in the cutting region; actuating a cutting assembly to cut a portion of the aerosol-generating article; actuating the transfer mechanism to transfer the portion into a heating region of the aerosol-generating device; and heating the portion with the heating element.

9. The method of claim 8, further comprising determining which portion or portions of the aerosol-generating article have not been cut or have been cut, or which portion or portions of the aerosol-generating article are available for cutting, or both.

10. A method according to claim 8 or claim 9, further comprising: inputting into the aerosol-generating device an input defining a desired aerosol profile, aerosolisation profile, or both an aerosol profile and an aerosolisation profile; and determining, based on the received input, an amount of the aerosol-generating article to be cut or which portion of the aerosol-generating article to be cut.

11. An aerosol-generating system comprising: an aerosol-generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 7; and an aerosol-generating article receivable by the aerosol-generating device, the aerosol-generating article comprising: a first outer layer and a second outer layer opposite the first outer layer; and an inner layer disposed between the first outer layer and the second outer layer, the inner layer comprising an aerosol-forming substrate.

12. An aerosol-generating system according to claim 11, wherein the inner layer comprises a gel, the gel optionally comprising nicotine.

13. An aerosol-generating system according to claim 11, wherein the inner layer and the outer layers comprise a fibrous material, and optionally wherein the fibrous material is derived from cellulose.

14. An aerosol-generating system according to claim 11, wherein the first outer layer and the second outer layer have planar outer surfaces. ​ ​

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