Aerosol-generating device with a sensory medium cartridge

Abstract

The present invention relates to an aerosol generating apparatus (10) comprising a top portion (20), a main portion (70), and a cylinder (50). The top portion includes a proximal end comprising a cavity (22) for receiving an aerosol-generated article (12). The top portion also includes a distal end comprising a top cylinder connector (24) and a top airflow passage extending from the top cylinder connector to the cavity. The main portion includes a proximal end comprising a main cylinder connector (72). The main portion also includes a main air inlet and a main airflow passage extending from the main air inlet to the main cylinder connector. The top cylinder connector is removably attached to the proximal end of the cylinder, and the main cylinder connector is removably attached to the distal end of the cylinder, thereby enabling a first operating mode. The top cylinder connector is directly removably attached to the main cylinder connector, thereby enabling a second operating mode.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to an aerosol generating apparatus. This disclosure also relates to a cylinder for use with the aerosol generating apparatus. This disclosure further relates to an aerosol generating system comprising an aerosol generating apparatus and an aerosol generating article. Background Technology

[0002] Aerosol generating apparatuses for generating inhalable aerosols or vapors are known. Such apparatuses heat an aerosol-forming matrix to a temperature that causes one or more components of the aerosol-forming matrix to volatilize without burning the aerosol-forming matrix. The aerosol-forming matrix may be provided as part of an aerosol-generating article. The aerosol-generating article may have a strip shape for inserting the aerosol-generating article into a cavity (e.g., a heating chamber) of the aerosol-generating apparatus. Heating elements may be arranged in or around the heating chamber to heat the aerosol-forming matrix after the aerosol-generating article has been inserted into the heating chamber of the aerosol-generating apparatus. Summary of the Invention

[0003] It is desirable to have an aerosol generating device in which the user experience can be modified. It is desirable to have an aerosol generating device in which the user experience can be modified by the user. It is desirable to have an aerosol generating device in which the user experience can be modified more easily. It is desirable to have an aerosol generating device in which the flavor of the generated aerosol can be modified. It is desirable to have an aerosol generating device in which the nicotine content of the generated aerosol can be modified. It is desirable to have an aerosol generating device in which the user can choose to generate the aerosol from a solid or liquid aerosol generating source. It is desirable to have an aerosol generating device in which the user can use a device with or without a removable cartridge that can contain liquid. In embodiments, the liquid may contain flavoring agents, active ingredients such as nicotine, or water for wetting the aerosol.

[0004] According to an embodiment, an aerosol generating apparatus is provided, comprising a top portion and a main portion. The top portion may include a top housing. The top portion may also include a heating element. The top portion may further include a proximal end, the proximal end including a cavity for receiving an aerosol-generated article. The top portion may have a removable mouthpiece, the mouthpiece being removably attached to the proximal end of the top portion. The top portion may further include a distal end, the distal end including a top tube connector. The top portion may further include a top airflow passage extending from the top tube connector to the cavity. The top airflow passage may extend through the top tube connector.

[0005] The main portion may include a main housing. The main portion may also include a power source, preferably a battery. The main portion may also include a proximal end, which includes a main barrel connector. The main portion may also include a main air inlet. The main portion may also include a main airflow passage extending from the main air inlet to the main barrel connector. A top barrel connector may be removably attached to the proximal end of the barrel, and the main barrel connector may be removably attached to the distal end of the barrel, thereby enabling a first operating mode in which the barrel engages between the top portion and the main portion, and in which an airflow path flows from the main air inlet through the barrel to the cavity. The top barrel connector may be directly and removably attached to the main barrel connector, thereby enabling a second operating mode in which the top portion is directly attached to the main portion.

[0006] According to an embodiment of the present invention, an aerosol generating apparatus comprising a top portion and a main portion is provided. The top portion includes a top housing. The top portion also includes a heating element. The top portion further includes a proximal end comprising a cavity for receiving an aerosol-generated article. The top portion may also include a removable mouthpiece. The top portion further includes a distal end comprising a top tube connector. The top portion also includes a top airflow channel extending from the top tube connector to the cavity. The main portion includes a main housing. The main portion also includes a power source, preferably a battery. The main portion further includes a proximal end comprising a main tube connector. The main portion also includes a main air inlet. The main portion further includes a main airflow channel extending from the main air inlet to the main tube connector. The top tube connector is removably attached to the proximal end of the tube, and the main tube connector is removably attached to the distal end of the tube, thereby enabling a first operating mode in which the tube is engaged between the top portion and the main portion. The top tube connector is directly removably attached to the main tube connector, thereby enabling a second operating mode in which the top portion is directly attached to the main portion.

[0007] The top tube connector can be directly and removably attached to the main tube connector by means of magnetic or screw connection, depending on the second operating mode.

[0008] According to the first operating mode, the device can be used when the cylinder is attached to the aerosol generating device and when the aerosol generating article is received in the cavity. Therefore, the inhalable aerosol can comprise a mixture of substances derived from both the liquid sensing medium included in the liquid storage portion of the cylinder and the aerosol forming matrix included in the aerosol generating article.

[0009] Alternatively, according to the first operating mode, the device can be used with the cylinder attached to the aerosol generating device, but without the aerosol generating article being received in the cavity. Therefore, the inhalable aerosol may contain only the substance derived from the liquid-sensing medium included in the liquid storage portion of the cylinder.

[0010] According to the second operating mode, the device can be used without the cylinder being attached to the aerosol generating device, but with the aerosol generating article received in the cavity. Therefore, the inhalable aerosol may contain only substances derived from the aerosol forming matrix included in the aerosol generating article.

[0011] The aerosol generating apparatus of the present invention provides a multifunctional device by enabling different operating modes. Users can select between different operating modes. Therefore, users do not need to carry multiple different devices for each operating mode, but only need to carry one device. Furthermore, users may not need to purchase multiple different devices, but only need to purchase one device, which can save costs.

[0012] The user experience can be modified by enabling different operating modes. Users can also modify the user experience by enabling different operating modes. Modifying the user experience is easier by enabling different operating modes. The aroma of the generated aerosol can be modified by enabling different operating modes. The nicotine content of the generated aerosol can be modified by enabling different operating modes.

[0013] When the aerosol-generating article is not received in the cavity, the proximal end of the top portion may be adapted to allow attachment of a mouthpiece, thereby enabling a third operating mode. Therefore, the inhalable aerosol may contain only the substance derived from the liquid-sensing medium included in the liquid storage portion of the cartridge. The additional mouthpiece may allow for further modification of the airflow to be inhaled by the user. For example, the aerosol may be further modified by additional air orifices in the mouthpiece that further dilute the aerosol.

[0014] The device may also include a mouthpiece. When the aerosol-generating article is not received in the cavity, the mouthpiece may be removably attached to the proximal end of the top portion of the aerosol-generating device.

[0015] The aerosol generating device can be configured with a removably attached cartridge. This allows the user to easily replace the cartridge. The user can also replace the emptied cartridge. The user can choose between different cartridges for storing different liquids. Different cartridges can be color-coded, making it easy for the user to distinguish between different liquids.

[0016] The wall of the cylinder can be one or more of the walls of the cylinder shell, the walls of the liquid storage section, or the walls of the liquid storage compartments within the liquid storage section. The walls of the cylinder can be transparent, allowing the liquid contained in the liquid storage section to be visible from the outside. Users can distinguish different liquids based on their color. The walls of the cylinder can be transparent, allowing the emptying of the liquid storage section to be visible from the outside.

[0017] The cavity of the aerosol generating apparatus may have an open end into which the aerosol-generated 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 the cavity. The closed end may be closed except for providing air vents disposed in the base. The base of the cavity may be flat. The base of the cavity may be circular. The base of the cavity may be disposed upstream of the cavity. The open end may be disposed downstream of the cavity. The cavity may have an elongated extension. The cavity may have a longitudinal central axis. The longitudinal direction may be the direction extending along the longitudinal central axis between the open end and the closed end. The longitudinal central axis of the cavity may be parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generating apparatus.

[0018] The cavity can be configured as a heating chamber. The cavity can have a cylindrical shape. The cavity can have a hollow cylindrical shape. The shape of the cavity can correspond to the shape of the aerosol-generating article to be received in the cavity. The cavity can have a circular cross-section. The cavity can have an elliptical or rectangular cross-section. The cavity can have an inner diameter corresponding to the outer diameter of the aerosol-generating article.

[0019] The cavity is adapted to allow air to flow through it. A top airflow channel extends into the cavity. The liquid storage portion of the cylinder is fluidly connected to the cavity via the top airflow channel. Ambient air can be drawn into the aerosol generating device, enter the cavity, and flow to the user. The open end of the cavity may include an air outlet. Downstream of the cavity, a mouthpiece may be disposed, or the user may inhale directly from the aerosol generating article. The airflow channel extends through the mouthpiece.

[0020] The top portion may include a top air inlet and additional airflow passages extending from the top air inlet into the cavity.

[0021] The aerosol generating apparatus may include a housing. A top portion may include a top housing, and a main portion may include a main housing. The top housing and the main housing may be separate components.

[0022] The top portion may include a heating element, and the main portion may include a power source for powering the heating element. The power source may include a battery. The power source may be a lithium-ion battery. Alternatively, the power source may be a nickel-metal hydride battery, a nickel-cadmium battery, or a lithium-based battery, such as a lithium cobalt, lithium iron phosphate, lithium titanate, or lithium polymer battery. The power source may require recharging and may have a capacity to store sufficient energy for one or more uses; for example, the power source may have sufficient capacity to continuously generate aerosols for approximately six minutes or multiples of six minutes. In another example, the power source may have sufficient capacity to provide a predetermined number of suction cycles or intermittent activation of the heater.

[0023] The power supply can be a direct current (DC) power supply. In one embodiment, the power supply is a DC power supply having a DC power supply voltage in the range of 2.5 volts to 4.5 volts and a DC power supply current in the range of 1 ampere to 10 amperes (corresponding to a DC power supply in the range of 2.5 watts to 45 watts). Advantageously, the aerosol generating device may include a direct current to alternating current (DC / AC) inverter for converting the DC current supplied by the DC power supply into an alternating current. The DC / AC converter may include a Class D, Class C, or Class E power amplifier. The AC power output of the DC / AC converter is supplied to the induction coil.

[0024] The power supply is suitable for powering the induction coil and can be configured to operate at high frequencies. Class E power amplifiers are preferred for operation at high frequencies. As used herein, the term "high-frequency oscillating current" means an oscillating current with a frequency between 500 kHz and 30 MHz. The frequency of the high-frequency oscillating current can be from 1 MHz to 30 MHz, preferably from 1 MHz to 10 MHz, and more preferably from 5 MHz to 8 MHz.

[0025] In another embodiment, the switching frequency of the power amplifier can be in a lower kHz range, for example, between 100 kHz and 400 kHz. In embodiments using Class D or Class C power amplifiers, a switching frequency in the lower kHz range is particularly advantageous.

[0026] Heating elements may include resistive materials. Suitable resistive materials include, but are not limited to: semiconductors, such as doped ceramics, “conductive” ceramics (e.g., molybdenum disilicide), carbon, graphite, metals, metal alloys, and composite materials made of ceramic and metallic materials. Such composite materials may include doped or undoped ceramics. Examples of suitable doped ceramics include doped silicon carbide. Examples of suitable metals include titanium, zirconium, tantalum, platinum, gold, and silver. Examples of suitable metal alloys include those containing stainless steel, nickel, cobalt, chromium, aluminum, titanium, zirconium, hafnium, niobium, molybdenum, tantalum, tungsten, tin, gallium, manganese, gold, iron, and those containing nickel, iron, cobalt, stainless steel, etc. And superalloys mainly composed of iron-manganese-aluminum alloys. In composite materials, resistive materials can be optionally embedded in insulating materials, encapsulated by insulating materials, coated by insulating materials, or vice versa, depending on the energy transfer kinetics and desired external physicochemical properties.

[0027] Advantageously, the heating element heats the aerosol-forming matrix via thermal conduction. The heating element may at least partially contact the matrix or a carrier on which the matrix is ​​deposited. Alternatively, heat from an internal or external heating element may be conducted to the matrix via a thermally conductive element.

[0028] During operation, the aerosol-forming matrix can be completely contained within the aerosol-generating device. In this case, the user can inhale through the mouthpiece of the aerosol-generating device. Alternatively, during operation, a smoking product containing the aerosol-forming matrix can be partially contained within the aerosol-generating device. In this case, the user can inhale directly from the smoking product.

[0029] The heating element of the aerosol generating apparatus may include a resistance heating element. The heating element of the top portion may include a resistance heating element. The heating element of the aerosol generating apparatus may also include an induction heating element. The heating element of the top portion may include an induction heating element.

[0030] An induction heating element can be configured to generate heat through induction. The induction heating element may include an induction coil and a sensor device. A single induction coil may be provided. A single sensor device may be provided. Preferably, more than one induction coil may be provided. A first induction coil and a second induction coil may be provided. Preferably, more than one sensor device may be provided. The induction heating element may include a central sensor device and peripheral sensor devices.

[0031] The central sensor device may be a tubular sensor. The induction heating element may include a peripheral induction coil and a tubular sensor. The tubular sensor may define at least a portion of the top airflow channel.

[0032] The peripheral sensory device may be an additional tubular sensor. The additional tubular sensor may define at least a portion of the lumen.

[0033] The induction heating element may include a peripheral induction coil, a tubular sensor, and an additional tubular sensor. The induction coil, tubular sensor, and additional tubular sensor may be coaxially aligned.

[0034] A central receptor device may include central receptors. A central receptor device may include at least two central receptors. A central receptor device may include more than two central receptors. A central receptor device may include four central receptors. A central receptor device may consist of four central receptors. At least one, preferably all, of the central receptors may be elongated.

[0035] The central receptors can be arranged parallel to the longitudinal central axis of the cavity. If multiple central receptors are provided, each central receptor can be arranged equidistantly parallel to the longitudinal central axis of the cavity.

[0036] The downstream end portion of the central receptor device may be rounded, preferably curved inward toward the central longitudinal axis of the cavity. If multiple central receptors are provided, preferably, each downstream end portion of each central receptor may be rounded, preferably curved inward toward the central longitudinal axis of the cavity. The rounded end portion facilitates insertion of an aerosol-generating article above the central receptor device. Instead of a rounded end portion, the end portion may taper or be chamfered toward the longitudinal central axis of the cavity.

[0037] The central receptor device can be arranged around the central longitudinal axis of the cavity. If multiple central receptors are provided, they can be arranged in a circumferential orientation around the central longitudinal axis of the cavity. When the aerosol-generating article is inserted into the cavity, the aerosol-generating article can be centered in the cavity by means of the arrangement of the central receptor device.

[0038] The central receptor device may be hollow. The central receptor device may include at least two central receptors defining a hollow cavity between central receptors. The hollow structure of the central receptor device allows airflow to enter the hollow central receptor device. A top airflow channel may extend through the hollow central receptor device. A core may be disposed within the hollow central receptor device. As described herein, preferably, the central receptor device includes at least two central receptors. Preferably, a gap is provided between the at least two central receptors. This allows airflow to pass through the central receptor device. The airflow may be directed in a direction parallel to or along the longitudinal central axis of the cavity. Preferably, the gap allows airflow in a lateral direction. Lateral airflow may generate aerosols due to contact between the incoming air and the aerosol-generating matrix of the aerosol-generating article through the gap between the central receptors. Heating of the central receptor device may cause heating of the core disposed within the hollow central receptor device. Heating of the core may cause aerosol generation within the hollow central receptor device. Alternatively, when the aerosol-generating article is inserted into the cavity, heating of the central sensor device can cause aerosol generation within the hollow central sensor device. The central sensor device can be configured to heat the interior of the aerosol-generating article. Aerosol can be drawn in a downstream direction through the hollow central sensor device.

[0039] The central receptor device may have an annular cross-section. The central receptor device may include at least two central receptors defining a hollow cavity with an annular cross-section. The central receptor device may be tubular. If the central receptor device includes at least two central receptors, the central receptors may be arranged to form a tubular central receptor device. Preferably, airflow is allowed to pass through the central receptor device through the gap between the central receptors.

[0040] The peripheral sensor device may include an elongated, preferably leaf-shaped, or cylindrical sensor. The peripheral sensor device may include at least two leaf-shaped sensors. The leaf-shaped sensors may be arranged around a cavity. The leaf-shaped sensors may be arranged parallel to the longitudinal central axis of the cavity. The leaf-shaped sensors may be arranged inside the cavity. The leaf-shaped sensors may be arranged to hold the aerosol-generating article when it is inserted into the cavity. The leaf-shaped sensors may have an expanded downstream end to facilitate insertion of the aerosol-generating article into the leaf-shaped sensor. Air may flow into the cavity between the leaf-shaped sensors. Gap may be provided between the individual leaf-shaped sensors. Air may then contact or enter the aerosol-generating article. In this way, uniform permeation of the aerosol-generating article with air can be achieved, thereby optimizing aerosol generation. The peripheral sensor device may be configured to heat the exterior of the aerosol-generating article.

[0041] A peripheral receptor device may include at least two peripheral receptors. A peripheral receptor device may include multiple peripheral receptors. At least one, preferably all, of the peripheral receptors may be elongated. At least one, preferably all, of the peripheral receptors may be leaf-shaped.

[0042] The downstream end portion of the peripheral receptor device may be expanded. At least one, preferably all, of the peripheral receptors may have an expanded downstream end portion.

[0043] The peripheral receptor device can be arranged around the central longitudinal axis of the cavity. The peripheral receptor device can also be arranged around the central receptor device. If the peripheral receptor device includes multiple peripheral receptors, each peripheral receptor can be arranged equidistantly parallel to the central longitudinal axis of the cavity.

[0044] A peripheral sensor device may define an annular hollow cylindrical cavity between the peripheral sensor device and the central sensor device. The annular hollow cylindrical cavity may be a cavity for inserting an aerosol-generating article. The central sensor device may be disposed within the annular hollow cylindrical cavity. The annular hollow cylindrical cavity may be configured to receive the aerosol-generating article.

[0045] Peripheral receptors may have an annular cross-section. A peripheral receptor device may include at least two peripheral receptors defining a hollow cavity with an annular cross-section. The peripheral receptor device may be tubular.

[0046] The peripheral receptor device may have an inner diameter larger than the outer diameter of the central receptor device. An annular hollow cylindrical cavity may be arranged between the peripheral receptor device and the central receptor device.

[0047] The central receptor device and the peripheral receptor device can be arranged coaxially.

[0048] An induction coil may surround both the central receptor device and the peripheral receptor device. A first induction coil may surround a first region of the central receptor device and the peripheral receptor device. A second induction coil may surround a second region of the central receptor device and the peripheral receptor device. The region surrounded by the induction coils may be configured as a heating zone, as described in more detail below.

[0049] Aerosol generating devices may include flux concentrators. Flux concentrators may be made of materials with high magnetic permeability. Flux concentrators may be arranged around induction heating elements. Flux concentrators concentrate magnetic field lines within themselves, thereby improving the heating effect of the sensing device by means of the induction coil and preventing the alternating magnetic field from the induction coil from interfering with other surrounding devices.

[0050] The aerosol generating apparatus may include a controller. The controller may be electrically connected to induction coils. The controller may be electrically connected to a first induction coil and a second induction coil. The controller may be configured to control the current supplied to the induction coils, and thus control the strength of the magnetic field generated by the induction coils.

[0051] A power supply and controller can be connected to the induction coil.

[0052] The controller can be configured to cut off the current supply to the input side of the DC / AC converter. In this way, the power supplied to the induction coil can be controlled using conventional methods of duty cycle management.

[0053] Both the top tube connector and the main tube connector may include conductive elements adapted to establish electrical contact between the top portion and the main portion when the top tube connector is directly attached to the main tube connector according to a second operating mode. Alternatively or additionally, both the top tube connector and the main tube connector may include conductive elements adapted to establish electrical contact between the top portion and the main portion when the top tube connector is attached to the proximal end of the tube and the main tube connector is attached to the distal end of the tube according to a first operating mode.

[0054] The top portion may include a core that is at least partially disposed within the top airflow channel. The core may be arranged to be spaced apart from the distal end of the top airflow channel.

[0055] The core can be arranged to be spaced apart from the top cylinder connector. When the top cylinder connector is connected to the cylinder, the core can be arranged to be spaced apart from the liquid storage portion of the cylinder. Therefore, the core can be arranged to not contact the liquid contained in the liquid storage portion. Thus, in the absence of a pressure drop in the top airflow channel at the top cylinder connector, essentially no liquid is delivered from the liquid storage portion to the core. The absence of a pressure drop in the top airflow channel at the top cylinder connector reduces or prevents liquid leakage from the liquid storage portion.

[0056] The pressure drop in the top airflow channel can be caused by the user drawing air from the air outlet of the aerosol generator. This pressure drop causes airflow in the top airflow channel. Consequently, the pressure drop causes liquid to be transported from the liquid storage section to the core, through the liquid outlet of the cylinder, and via the airflow through the top cylinder connector of the top section.

[0057] By separating the core and the liquid storage section, the core only absorbs liquid from the airflow when the user draws through the air outlet. Advantageously, the core's absorption of liquid can be controlled. Furthermore, excessive absorption of liquid by the core can be reduced. During periods when the device is not in use, the core's absorption of liquid can be minimized. Therefore, unwanted or abnormal odors can be prevented or reduced. Leakage of the liquid aerosol generation matrix can be prevented or reduced. Therefore, contamination of the device can be prevented or reduced.

[0058] The core can be a porous element. The core is capable of absorbing liquid from a gas flow. The core may include a capillary material. The capillary material may have a fibrous or sponge-like structure. The capillary material preferably comprises a capillary bundle. For example, the capillary material may include multiple fibers or threads or other fine-pore tubes. The fibers or threads may be generally aligned to deliver liquid to the heater. Alternatively, the capillary material may include a sponge-like or foam-like material. The structure of the capillary material forms multiple pores or tubes through which liquid can be transported by capillary action. The capillary material may include any suitable material or combination of materials. Examples of suitable materials are sponge or foam materials, ceramic or graphite matrix materials in the form of fibers or sintered powders, foamed metal or plastic materials, fibrous materials, such as those made from spun or extruded fibers, such as cellulose acetate, polyester or bonded polyolefins, polyethylene, ethylene or polypropylene fibers, nylon fibers, or ceramics. The capillary material may have any suitable capillary action and porosity for use with different liquid physical properties. Liquids possess physical properties, including but not limited to viscosity, surface tension, density, thermal conductivity, boiling point, and vapor pressure, which allow the liquid to be transported by capillary action through a capillary material. The capillary material can be configured to transport an aerosol-forming matrix to the heating element. The capillary material can extend into the voids within the heating element.

[0059] The main component may include a high-retention material arranged adjacent to the main cylinder connector to absorb potential leaks from the cylinder. The high-retention material may include one or more absorbent materials. It may be a sponge-like or foam-like material. The high-retention material may include one or more of zeolite, anhydrous calcium chloride, soda lime, silica gel, activated carbon, and highly absorbent polymers.

[0060] According to embodiments of the present invention, a cylinder for use with an aerosol generating apparatus is provided. The cylinder may include a proximal end comprising a liquid outlet and removably attached to a top cylinder connector of a top portion of an aerosol generating apparatus as described herein. The cylinder may also include a distal end comprising an air inlet and removably attached to a main cylinder connector of a main portion of aerosol generating apparatus as described herein. The cylinder may further include a liquid storage portion disposed between the proximal and distal ends such that, when the cylinder is attached to both the top and main portions, a continuous fluid connection is provided from the main air inlet through the liquid storage portion of the cylinder to the cavity along the main airflow passage and the top airflow passage.

[0061] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a cylinder for use with an aerosol generating apparatus is provided. The cylinder includes a proximal end comprising a liquid outlet and removably attached to a top cylinder connector of a top portion of an aerosol generating apparatus as described herein. The cylinder also includes a distal end comprising an air inlet and removably attached to a main cylinder connector of a main portion of an aerosol generating apparatus as described herein. The cylinder further includes a liquid storage portion disposed between the proximal and distal ends such that, when the cylinder is attached to both the top and main portions, a continuous fluid connection is provided from the main air inlet through the liquid storage portion of the cylinder to the cavity along the main airflow passage and the top airflow passage.

[0062] The cartridge may be substantially sealed. The cartridge may include one or more liquid outlets for the flow of the liquid sensing medium stored in the liquid storage section from the liquid storage section to other parts of the aerosol generating apparatus. The cartridge may include one or more semi-open inlets. This allows ambient air to enter the cartridge and the liquid storage section. The one or more semi-open inlets may be semi-permeable membranes or one-way valves, permeable to allow ambient air to enter the liquid storage section, and impermeable to substantially prevent air and liquid from leaving the liquid storage section. The one or more semi-open inlets allow air to be passed into the liquid storage section under certain conditions. The liquid storage section of the cartridge may be refillable. Alternatively, the cartridge may be configured as a replaceable cartridge. When the initial cartridge is depleted, a new cartridge can be attached to the aerosol generating apparatus.

[0063] The liquid outlet at the proximal end of the cylinder may include a check valve. The check valve may be configured to open in response to a pressure drop in the top airflow passage. The check valve further prevents contamination of the liquid storage section by preventing any residue from entering the liquid storage section via the liquid outlet.

[0064] An air inlet at the distal end of the cylinder may include a check valve. The check valve may be configured to open in response to a pressure drop in the main airflow passage. The check valve further prevents liquid leakage from the air inlet at the distal end of the cylinder.

[0065] The liquid storage portion may include a liquid sensory medium. The liquid sensory medium may include a flavoring agent. The liquid sensory medium may include nicotine.

[0066] The liquid storage portion of the cylinder may include two or more separate liquid storage compartments. Each liquid storage compartment may contain a liquid, which includes a liquid-sensing medium. Individual liquid storage compartments may contain the same liquid. Alternatively, at least one liquid storage compartment may contain a liquid composition different from that of the other liquid storage compartment. At least one liquid storage compartment may contain a liquid-sensing medium different from that of the other liquid storage compartment.

[0067] Each liquid storage compartment may have a separate compartment air inlet and a separate compartment liquid outlet. The cylinder may include means for individually opening and closing one or both of the compartment air inlet and compartment liquid outlet.

[0068] The liquid storage section may include two or more liquid storage compartments connected in series. The liquid storage section may include two or more liquid storage compartments connected in series, such that when the cylinder is attached to both the top section and the main section, a continuous fluid connection is provided from the main air inlet through the liquid storage section of the cylinder to the cavity along the main airflow passage and the top airflow passage, wherein the fluid connection is subsequently provided through the two or more liquid storage compartments connected in series in the liquid storage section of the cylinder.

[0069] The liquid storage section may include two or more liquid storage compartments connected in parallel. The liquid storage section may include two or more liquid storage compartments connected in parallel such that, when the cylinder is attached to both the top section and the main section, a continuous fluid connection is provided from the main air inlet through one of the parallel liquid storage compartments of the liquid storage section of the cylinder to a cavity along the main airflow passage and the top airflow passage. Alternatively, the liquid storage section may include two or more liquid storage compartments connected in parallel such that, when the cylinder is attached to both the top section and the main section, a continuous fluid connection is provided from the main air inlet through at least two of the parallel liquid storage compartments of the liquid storage section of the cylinder to a cavity along the main airflow passage and the top airflow passage.

[0070] The liquid storage section can be configured to allow a user to select from two or more parallel-connected liquid storage compartments to provide fluid connectivity and participate in aerosol generation. Therefore, the user can choose between different liquid sensing media stored in different parallel-connected liquid storage compartments. Cylinders can be provided, which can be used in different configurations to generate different types of aerosols.

[0071] Alternatively or additionally, aerosols modified by superimposing different liquid sensory media from different liquid storage compartments can be generated. For example, different liquid sensory media including different flavorings can be used in different liquid storage compartments. Thus, users can produce specific flavors by selecting specific combinations of liquid storage compartments to participate in aerosol generation.

[0072] The liquid storage section of the cylinder may include liquid storage compartments connected in parallel and liquid storage compartments connected in series.

[0073] Various types and constructions of cylinders can be selected by means of liquid storage compartments connected in parallel and alternatively or in series.

[0074] The user experience can be modified by using different types and structures of cylinders. The user experience can be modified by the user using different types and structures of cylinders. The user experience can be modified more easily by using different types and structures of cylinders. The aroma of the generated aerosol can be modified by using different types and structures of cylinders. The nicotine content of the generated aerosol can be modified by using different types and structures of cylinders.

[0075] The cylinder may include a conductive element adapted to establish electrical contact between the top portion and the main portion when the cylinder is attached to both the top portion and the main portion. The conductive element may connect a heating element in the top portion to one or both of a controller and a power supply in the main portion.

[0076] According to embodiments of the present invention, an aerosol generation system is provided, the aerosol generation system comprising an aerosol generation apparatus as described herein and an aerosol generation article as described herein comprising an aerosol forming matrix as described herein.

[0077] As used herein, the term "liquid sensing medium" refers to a liquid composition capable of modifying an airflow in contact with the liquid sensing medium. Modification of the airflow can be one or more of forming an aerosol or vapor, cooling the airflow, and filtering the airflow. For example, the liquid sensing medium may include an aerosol-forming matrix capable of releasing volatile compounds that can form aerosols or vapors. Preferably, the aerosol-forming matrix in the liquid sensing medium is a flavoring agent or includes a flavoring agent. Alternatively or additionally, the liquid sensing medium may include one or both of a cooling substance for cooling the airflow passing through the liquid sensing medium and a filtering substance for capturing unwanted components in the airflow. Water can be used as a cooling substance. Water can be used as a filtering substance for capturing particles, such as dust particles, from the airflow. The liquid sensing medium can be used as one or more of a liquid providing nicotine, a flavor enhancer, and a volume enhancer.

[0078] As used herein, the term "aerosol forming matrix" refers to a matrix capable of releasing volatile compounds that can form aerosols or vapors. Such volatile compounds can be released by heating the aerosol forming matrix. The aerosol forming matrix may be in solid or liquid form. The terms "aerosol" and "vapor" are used synonymously.

[0079] The aerosol forming matrix may be part of the aerosol generating article. The aerosol forming matrix may be part of the liquid held in the liquid storage section. The aerosol forming matrix may be part of the liquid sensing medium held in the liquid storage section. The liquid storage section may contain a liquid aerosol forming matrix. Alternatively or additionally, the liquid storage section may contain a solid aerosol forming matrix. For example, the liquid storage section may contain a suspension of a solid aerosol forming matrix and a liquid. Preferably, the liquid storage section contains a liquid aerosol forming matrix.

[0080] The aerosol-forming matrix described below may be one or both of an aerosol-forming matrix included in the liquid storage portion and an aerosol-generating article. Preferably, a liquid nicotine or flavoring / seasoning aerosol-forming matrix may be used in the liquid storage portion of the cartridge, while an aerosol-forming matrix containing solid tobacco may be used in the aerosol-generating article.

[0081] The aerosol-forming matrix may include nicotine. Nicotine-containing aerosol-forming matrix may be a nicotine salt matrix.

[0082] Aerosol forming matrix may include plant-based materials. Aerosol forming matrix may include tobacco. Aerosol forming matrix may include tobacco-containing materials, including volatile tobacco flavoring compounds released from the aerosol forming matrix upon heating. Alternatively, aerosol forming matrix may include non-tobacco materials. Aerosol forming matrix may include homogenized plant-based materials. Aerosol forming matrix may include homogenized tobacco materials. Homogenized tobacco materials may be formed by agglomerating particulate tobacco. In a particularly preferred embodiment, aerosol forming matrix may include aggregated curled sheets of homogenized tobacco material. As used herein, the term "curled sheet" refers to a sheet having a plurality of generally parallel ridges or folds.

[0083] The aerosol forming matrix may include at least one aerosol forming agent. An aerosol forming agent is any suitable known compound or mixture of compounds that, in use, facilitates the formation of a dense and stable aerosol and is substantially resistant to thermal degradation at the operating temperature of the device. Suitable aerosol forming agents are well known in the art and include, but are not limited to: polyols, such as triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol, and glycerol; esters of polyols, such as mono, di, or triacetic acid esters of glycerol; and fatty acid esters of mono-, di-, or polycarboxylic acids, such as dimethyl dodecanoate and dimethyl tetradecanoate. Preferred aerosol forming agents are polyols or mixtures thereof, such as triethylene glycol and 1,3-butanediol. Preferably, the aerosol forming agent is glycerol. If present, the aerosol forming agent content in the homogenized tobacco material may be equal to or greater than 5% by weight on a dry weight basis, and preferably from about 5% to about 30% by weight on a dry weight basis. The aerosol forming matrix may include other additives and ingredients, such as flavoring agents.

[0084] As used herein, the term "aerosol generating article" refers to an article comprising an aerosol-forming matrix capable of releasing volatile compounds that can form aerosols. For example, an aerosol generating article may be an article that generates an aerosol that can be directly inhaled by a user through a mouthpiece at the proximal end or user end of the device. Aerosol generating articles may be disposable. Aerosol generating articles may be inserted into the cavity of an aerosol generating device.

[0085] The aerosol generating article and the cavity of the aerosol generating apparatus can be arranged such that the aerosol generating article is partially received in the cavity of the aerosol generating apparatus. Alternatively, the cavity of the aerosol generating apparatus and the aerosol generating article can be arranged such that the aerosol generating article is completely received within the cavity of the aerosol generating apparatus.

[0086] The aerosol-generating article may have a certain length and a circumference substantially perpendicular to said length. The aerosol-forming matrix may be provided as an aerosol-forming segment comprising the aerosol-forming matrix. The shape of the aerosol-forming segment may be substantially cylindrical. The aerosol-forming segment may be substantially elongated. The aerosol-forming segment may also have a certain length and a circumference substantially perpendicular to said length.

[0087] As used herein, the term "liquid storage section" refers to a storage section comprising a liquid sensing medium and an aerosol-forming matrix, additionally or alternatively capable of releasing volatile compounds that can form aerosols. The liquid storage section may be constructed as a container or reservoir for storing the liquid aerosol-forming matrix.

[0088] The liquid storage section can be constructed as a replaceable tank or container. The liquid storage section can be any suitable shape and size. For example, the liquid storage section can be substantially cylindrical. The cross-section of the liquid storage section can be, for example, substantially circular, elliptical, square, or rectangular.

[0089] The liquid storage section may include a housing. The housing may include a base and one or more sidewalls extending from the base. The base and the one or more sidewalls may be integrally formed. The base and the one or more sidewalls may be different elements attached or fixed to each other. The housing of the liquid storage section may include transparent or translucent portions, allowing a user to see the liquid aerosol forming matrix stored within the liquid storage section through the housing. The liquid storage section may be configured such that the aerosol forming matrix stored within the liquid storage section is unaffected by ambient air. The liquid storage section may be configured such that the aerosol forming matrix stored within the liquid storage section is unaffected by light. This reduces the risk of matrix degradation and maintains a high level of hygiene.

[0090] As used herein, the term "aerosol generating apparatus" refers to an apparatus that interacts with one or both of the aerosol generating article and the cartridge to generate an aerosol.

[0091] As used herein, the term "aerosol generation system" refers to a combination of an aerosol generation article as further described and illustrated herein and an aerosol generation apparatus as further described and illustrated herein. In this system, one or both of the aerosol generation apparatus, the aerosol generation article, and the cartridge cooperate to generate inhalable aerosols.

[0092] The aerosol generating device may include a heat-insulating element. The heat-insulating element may be arranged around a cavity. The heat-insulating element may be arranged between the housing and the cavity of the aerosol generating device. The heat-insulating element may be tubular. The heat-insulating element may be coaxially aligned with an induction heating element, preferably coaxially aligned with a tubular sensor.

[0093] Preferably, the aerosol generating device is portable. The aerosol generating device may have a size comparable to a conventional cigar or cigarette. The device may be an electrically operated smoking device. The device may be a handheld aerosol generating device. The aerosol generating device may have an overall length between 30 mm and 150 mm. The aerosol generating device may have an outer diameter between 5 mm and 30 mm.

[0094] The aerosol generating device may include a housing. The housing may be elongated. The housing may comprise any suitable material or combination of materials. Examples of suitable materials include metals, alloys, plastics, or composites containing one or more of those materials, or thermoplastic materials suitable for food or pharmaceutical applications, such as polypropylene, polyetheretherketone (PEEK), and polyethylene. Preferably, the material is lightweight and not easily broken.

[0095] The housing may include at least one air inlet. The housing may include more than one air inlet.

[0096] As used herein, the term "mouthpiece" refers to a part of an aerosol generating device placed in the user's mouth for direct inhalation of aerosols generated by the aerosol generating device from aerosol articles received in the cavity of the device and / or from liquid received in the liquid storage section of the cylinder.

[0097] The operation of the heating element can be triggered by a suction detection system. Alternatively, the heating element can be triggered by pressing a switch button held during user suction. The suction detection system can be provided as a sensor, configured as an airflow sensor to measure airflow rate. Airflow rate is a parameter characterizing the amount of air drawn by the user each time through the airflow path of the aerosol generating device. The airflow sensor can detect the start of suction when the airflow exceeds a predetermined threshold. It can also detect the start when the user activates the button.

[0098] The sensor can also be configured as a pressure sensor. When a user inhales through the aerosol generating device, a negative pressure or vacuum is created inside the device, which can be detected by the pressure sensor. The term "negative pressure" should be understood as a pressure lower than the pressure of ambient air. In other words, when a user inhales through the device, the air drawn through the device has a pressure lower than the pressure of the ambient air outside the device.

[0099] 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 indicating the status of the aerosol generating device or the aerosol forming matrix.

[0100] Aerosol generating apparatus may include additional components, such as a charging unit for recharging the onboard power supply in an electrically operated or electrosol generating apparatus.

[0101] As used herein, the term "proximal end" refers to the user end or port end of an aerosol generating device or its components or portions, and the term "distal end" refers to the end opposite to the proximal end. When referring to a cavity, the term "proximal end" refers to the region closest to the open end of the cavity, and the term "distal end" refers to the region closest to the closed end.

[0102] As used herein, the terms “upstream” and “downstream” are used to describe the relative position of a component or part of an aerosol generating device with respect to the direction in which it is inhaled by a user during use of the aerosol generating device.

[0103] As used herein, "sensor device" means a component that heats up when subjected to an alternating magnetic field. This may be due to eddy currents induced in the sensor device, hysteresis losses, or both. During use, the sensor device is located in thermal contact or close thermal proximity to the aerosol-forming matrix received in the aerosol-generating apparatus. In this way, the aerosol-forming matrix is ​​heated by the sensor device, causing aerosol formation.

[0104] The receptor material can be any material capable of being heated to a temperature sufficient to aerosolize the aerosol-forming matrix. The examples and features of the receptor devices described below can be applied to one or both of central and peripheral receptor devices. Suitable materials for the receptor include graphite, molybdenum, silicon carbide, stainless steel, niobium, aluminum, nickel, nickel-containing compounds, titanium, and composites of metallic materials. Preferred receptor materials include metals or carbon. Advantageously, the receptor material may comprise ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic materials, such as ferritic iron, ferromagnetic alloys (e.g., ferromagnetic steel or stainless steel), ferromagnetic particles, and ferrites, or materials composed of them. Suitable receptor materials may be aluminum or include aluminum. The receptor material may comprise more than 5%, preferably more than 20%, more preferably more than 50%, or more than 90% ferromagnetic, ferrimagnetic, or paramagnetic materials. Preferred receptor materials can be heated to temperatures exceeding 250 degrees Celsius without degradation.

[0105] The receptor material can be formed from a single material layer. The single material layer can be a steel layer.

[0106] The receptor material may include a non-metallic core, wherein a metallic layer is disposed on the non-metallic core. For example, the receptor material may include metallic traces formed on the outer surface of a ceramic core or matrix.

[0107] The receptor material may be formed of an austenitic steel layer. One or more layers of stainless steel may be disposed on the austenitic steel layer. For example, the receptor material may be formed of an austenitic steel layer having a stainless steel layer on each of its upper and lower surfaces. The receptor device may include a single receptor material. The receptor device may include a first receptor material and a second receptor material. The first receptor material may be configured to be in close physical contact with the second receptor material. The first receptor material and the second receptor material may be in close contact to form an integral receptor. In some embodiments, the first receptor material is stainless steel and the second receptor material is nickel. The receptor device may have a two-layer construction. The receptor device may be formed of a stainless steel layer and a nickel layer.

[0108] Close contact between the first and second receptor materials can be achieved by any suitable means. For example, the second receptor material can be plated, deposited, coated, encapsulated, or welded to the first receptor material. Preferred methods include electroplating, flow electroplating, and encapsulation.

[0109] The features described with respect to one embodiment can also be applied to other embodiments of the invention.

[0110] The following is a non-exhaustive list of non-limiting examples. Any one or more features of these examples may be combined with any one or more features of another example or embodiment described herein.

[0111] Example A: An aerosol generating device, comprising a top section and a main section,

[0112] The top portion includes:

[0113] –Top shell

[0114] – Heating element,

[0115] – Proximal end, the proximal end including a cavity for receiving aerosol-generated articles,

[0116] – The distal end includes a top tube connector, and

[0117] – Top airflow channel, which extends from the top tube connector to the cavity;

[0118] The main part includes:

[0119] – main housing,

[0120] -power supply,

[0121] – Proximal end, the proximal end including the main tube connector.

[0122] – Main air inlet, and

[0123] – Main airflow channel, which extends from the main air inlet to the main cylinder connector;

[0124] The top tube connector is removably attached to the proximal end of the tube, and the main tube connector is removably attached to the distal end of the tube, thereby enabling a first operating mode, and the top tube connector is directly removably attached to the main tube connector, thereby enabling a second operating mode.

[0125] Example B: According to the device described in Example A, the top portion includes a top air inlet and an additional airflow passage extending from the top air inlet to the cavity.

[0126] Example C: The apparatus according to Example A or B, wherein when the aerosol generating article is not received in the cavity, the proximal end of the top portion is adapted to allow attachment of a mouthpiece, thereby enabling a third operating mode.

[0127] Example D: The apparatus according to any one of the foregoing examples, wherein both the top tube connector and the main tube connector include conductive elements adapted to establish electrical contact between the top portion and the main portion when the top tube connector is directly attached to the main tube connector according to the second operating mode.

[0128] Example E: The apparatus according to any one of the foregoing examples, wherein the heating element of the top portion includes an induction heating element.

[0129] Example F: The apparatus according to Example E, wherein the induction heating element includes a peripheral induction coil and a tubular sensor that defines at least a portion of the top airflow channel.

[0130] Example G: The apparatus according to Example F, wherein the top portion includes a top air inlet and an additional airflow passage extending from the top air inlet to the cavity; and wherein the inductive heating element includes an additional tubular sensor that defines at least a portion of the cavity.

[0131] Example H: The apparatus according to Example G, wherein the induction coil, the tubular sensor, and the additional tubular sensor are coaxially aligned.

[0132] Example I: The device according to any one of the foregoing examples, wherein the top portion includes a core disposed at least partially within the top airflow channel, and wherein the core is arranged to be spaced apart from the distal end of the top airflow channel.

[0133] Example J: The apparatus according to Example I, wherein the core is a porous element.

[0134] Example K: The apparatus according to any one of the foregoing examples, wherein the main portion includes a high-retention material arranged adjacent to the main barrel connector to absorb potential leaks from the barrel.

[0135] Example L: A cylinder for use with any one of Examples A to K, the cylinder comprising

[0136] - The proximal end includes a liquid outlet and a top tube connector removably attached to the top portion.

[0137] - The distal end includes an air inlet and is removably attached to the main barrel connector of the main portion, and

[0138] - A liquid storage section, disposed between the proximal end and the distal end, such that when the cylinder is attached to both the top portion and the main portion, a continuous fluid connection is provided from the main air inlet through the liquid storage section of the cylinder to the cavity, along the main airflow passage and the top airflow passage.

[0139] Example M: ​​The cylinder according to Example L, wherein the liquid outlet at the proximal end includes a one-way valve.

[0140] Example N: The cylinder according to Example L or Example M, wherein the air inlet at the distal end includes a one-way valve.

[0141] Example O: The cylinder according to any of Examples L to N, wherein the liquid storage portion includes a liquid sensing medium.

[0142] Example P: The cylinder according to Example O, wherein the liquid sensing medium includes a flavoring agent.

[0143] Example Q: The tube according to Example O or Example P, wherein the liquid sensory medium comprises nicotine.

[0144] Example R: The cylinder according to any one of Examples L to Q, wherein the liquid storage section comprises two or more liquid storage compartments connected in series.

[0145] Example S: The cylinder according to any one of Examples L to R, wherein the liquid storage section comprises two or more liquid storage compartments connected in parallel.

[0146] Example T: The cylinder according to Example R or Example S, wherein at least one liquid storage compartment comprises a liquid composition different from the liquid composition of another liquid storage compartment.

[0147] Example U: A cylinder according to any one of Examples L to T, wherein the cylinder includes a conductive element adapted to establish an electrical contact between the top portion and the main portion when the cylinder is attached to both the top portion and the main portion.

[0148] Example V: An aerosol generating apparatus comprising the apparatus according to any one of Examples A to K and the cylinder according to any one of Examples L to U.

[0149] Example W: The device according to Example V further includes a mouthpiece, wherein the mouthpiece is removably attached to the proximal end of the top portion when the aerosol-generating article is not received in the cavity.

[0150] Example X: An aerosol generation system comprising the apparatus according to any one of Examples A to W and an aerosol generation article comprising an aerosol forming matrix. Attached Figure Description

[0151] The invention will be further described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0152] Figure 1 Embodiments of the aerosol generating apparatus of the present invention under three different operating modes are shown;

[0153] Figure 2 An embodiment of the aerosol generating apparatus of the present invention is shown;

[0154] Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of the top portion of an embodiment of the aerosol generating apparatus of the present invention is shown;

[0155] Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of the top portion of an embodiment of the aerosol generating apparatus of the present invention is shown;

[0156] Figure 5 An embodiment of the cylinder of the present invention is shown;

[0157] Figure 6 Three different embodiments of the cylinder of the present invention are shown;

[0158] Figure 7 A cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the aerosol generating apparatus of the present invention is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0159] Figure 1 The aerosol generating apparatus 10 of the present invention is shown in three different operating modes. The aerosol generating apparatus 10 includes: a top portion 20, which includes a top housing and a heating element; and a main portion 70, which includes a main housing and a power source. The top portion 20 includes a proximal end of a cavity 22 for receiving an aerosol-generated article 12, a distal end including a top cylinder connector 24, and a top airflow passage extending from the top cylinder connector 24 to the cavity 22. The main portion 70 includes: a proximal end including a main cylinder connector 72, a main air inlet (not shown), and a main airflow passage extending from the main air inlet to the main cylinder connector 72. Figure 1 As shown on the left, the top tube connector 24 is removably attached to the proximal end of the tube 50, and the main tube connector 74 is removably attached to the distal end of the tube 50, thereby enabling a first operating mode. According to the first operating mode, the inhalable aerosol may contain material derived from the tube 50, and additionally contain material derived from the aerosol-forming matrix included in the aerosol-generating article 12.

[0160] like Figure 1 As shown in the middle, the top tube connector 24 can also be directly and removably attached to the main tube connector 72, thereby enabling a second operating mode. According to the second operating mode, the inhalable aerosol may contain only substances derived from the aerosol-forming matrix included in the aerosol-generating article 12.

[0161] like Figure 1 As shown on the right, when the aerosol generating article 12 is not received in the cavity 22, the proximal end of the top portion is adapted to allow attachment of the mouthpiece 14, thereby activating the third operating mode. According to the third operating mode, the inhalable aerosol may contain only substances originating from the cartridge 50.

[0162] Users can choose between different operating modes. Therefore, a multi-functional aerosol generating device 10 can be provided, which advantageously enables three different operating modes in a single device. Thus, users do not need to carry three different devices for each operating mode, but only one device. Furthermore, users may not need to purchase three different devices, but only one device, which saves costs.

[0163] Figure 2 The aerosol generating apparatus 10 of the present invention is shown. Figure 2 The left side shows the aerosol generating device 10 in its assembled state. The aerosol generating article 12 is inserted into the cavity 22. Figure 2 The aerosol generating apparatus 10 is shown in an exploded view in the middle, with the top portion 20, the cylinder 50, and the main portion 70 not attached to each other. The distal end of the main portion 70 includes a main cylinder connector 72 for removably attaching the main portion 70 to the cylinder 50. The proximal end of the top portion 20 includes a corresponding top cylinder connector (not shown) for removably attaching the top portion 20 to the cylinder 50. Figure 2 The right side shows an optional mouthpiece 14, which can be removably attached to the cavity 22 when the aerosol generating article 12 is not inserted into the cavity 22.

[0164] Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of the top portion 20 of the aerosol generating apparatus 10 of the present invention is shown. A top airflow channel extends from the top tube connector 24 to the cavity 22. The top portion 20 also includes a core 36 disposed within the top airflow channel. The core 36 is arranged spaced apart from the top tube connector 24. The core 36 is arranged spaced apart from the distal end of the top airflow channel.

[0165] The top portion 20 includes a top air inlet 26 and an additional airflow passage extending from the top air inlet 26 to the cavity 22. When the aerosol-generating article is not received in the cavity, the proximal end of the top portion 20 is adapted to allow reversible attachment of the mouthpiece 14, thereby enabling a third operating mode. The heating element of the top portion 20 includes an induction heating element. The induction heating element includes a peripheral induction coil 28 and a tubular sensor 30. The tubular sensor 30 defines a portion of the top airflow passage. The induction heating element also includes an additional tubular sensor 32. The additional tubular sensor 32 defines a portion of the cavity 22. The induction coil 28, the tubular sensor 30, and the additional tubular sensor 32 are coaxially aligned. A heat insulation element 34 positioned between the induction coil 28 and the additional tubular sensor 32 is also shown.

[0166] exist Figure 3In an alternative embodiment of the embodiment, a resistance heating element is used instead of an induction heating element. In an alternative embodiment, the induction coil 28 is omitted. Furthermore, in an alternative embodiment, the tubular sensor 30 is replaced by a resistance heating tube of the same shape as the tubular sensor 30, and the additional tubular sensor 32 is replaced by an additional resistance heating tube of the same shape as the additional tubular sensor 32. The resistance heating tube and the additional resistance heating tube may comprise a flexible heating foil on a dielectric substrate (e.g., polyimide).

[0167] Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of the top portion 20 of the aerosol generating apparatus 10 of the present invention is shown. Figure 4 The image also shows the proximal portion of the cylinder 50, reversibly attached to the top portion 20. The proximal liquid outlet 52 includes a one-way valve. Curved arrows indicate airflow along the top airflow passage and along the additional airflow passage.

[0168] The aerosol-generating article to be inserted into cavity 22 may include a hollow cylindrical tube comprising a solid aerosol-forming matrix at its distal end and a mouthpiece including a mouthpiece filter at its proximal end. The distal end of the aerosol-generating article may be inserted into cavity 22 such that the hollow cylindrical tube is arranged between tubular receptor 30 and additional tubular receptor 32. Thus, the aerosol-generating article may be sandwiched between the two receptors. The aerosol-generating article may be heated by the additional tubular receptor 32. The aerosol-generating article may be additionally heated by the tubular receptor 30.

[0169] The top air inlet 26 is fluidly connected to the cavity 22 via an orifice in the additional tubular sensor 32 along an additional airflow channel. For example, the additional tubular sensor 32 may include a plurality of individual heating elements arranged in a cylindrical configuration, and the space between adjacent heating elements may define the orifice. The heating elements may include sensor material.

[0170] A top airflow channel extends within the hollow tube of the tubular sensor 30. A core 36 is placed within the tubular sensor 30. The top airflow channel is fluidly connected to the cavity 22 via a top orifice 38 in the tubular sensor 30.

[0171] Figure 5 A cylinder 50 of the present invention is shown for use with an aerosol generating apparatus 10 as described herein. The cylinder 50 includes a proximal end comprising a liquid outlet 52 and removably attached to a top cylinder connector 24 of a top portion 20. The cylinder 50 includes a distal end comprising an air inlet 54 and removably attached to a main cylinder connector 72 of a main portion 70. The cylinder 50 also includes a liquid storage portion 56 disposed between the proximal and distal ends, such that when the cylinder 50 is attached to both the top portion 20 and the main portion 70, a continuous fluid connection is provided from the main air inlet through the liquid storage portion 56 of the cylinder 50 to the cavity 22 along the main airflow passage and the top airflow passage.

[0172] Figure 6 Three different cylinders 50 according to different embodiments of the present invention are shown. Figure 6 Each of the illustrated cylinders 50 includes a liquid storage section 56, which includes a first liquid storage compartment 58 and a second liquid storage compartment 60. Therefore, the liquid storage section 50 comprises two separate liquid storage compartments 58 and 60. Both the first liquid storage compartment 58 and the second liquid storage compartment 60 include a compartment air inlet 62 and a compartment liquid outlet 64. The first liquid storage compartment 58 comprises a different liquid sensing medium than the second liquid storage compartment 60. Therefore, the first liquid storage compartment 58 comprises a liquid composition different from that of the second liquid storage compartment 60.

[0173] exist Figure 6 The left side shows a cylinder 50 comprising two parallel liquid storage compartments 58, 60, such that when the cylinder 50 is attached to both the top portion and the main portion, a continuous fluid connection is provided from the main air inlet through the parallel liquid storage compartments 58, 60 of the liquid storage portion 56 of the cylinder 50 to the cavity, along the main airflow passage and the top airflow passage. Airflow exiting the compartment liquid outlet 64 of each of the parallel liquid storage compartments 58, 60 can be mixed in an upstream mixing region before exiting the cylinder 50 via liquid outlet 52.

[0174] Alternatively, an auxiliary device may be included to selectively provide a continuous fluid connection along the main airflow path and the top airflow path from the main air inlet through only one of the two liquid storage compartments 58, 60 to the cavity when the cylinder is attached to both the top and main portions. For example, a separately controllable gate may be provided at the compartment air inlet 62, and alternatively or additionally, at the compartment liquid outlet 64 of one or both of the individual liquid storage compartments 58, 60. The user can select between the parallel-connected liquid storage compartments 58, 60 to provide the fluid connection.

[0175] The compartment air inlet 62 can also be used as the air inlet 54 of the cylinder 50.

[0176] Figure 6An embodiment of a cylinder 50 is shown in the middle, which includes two separate liquid storage compartments 58 and 60 in a separate configuration. The two liquid storage compartments 58 and 60 are connected in series such that, when the cylinder is attached to both the top and main portions, a continuous fluid connection is provided from the main air inlet through the liquid storage portion of the cylinder to the cavity, along the main airflow passage and the top airflow passage. The compartment liquid outlet 64 of the first liquid storage compartment 58 is fluidly connected to the compartment air inlet 62 of the second liquid storage compartment 60. Thus, the fluid connection is subsequently provided through the two series-connected liquid storage compartments 58 and 60 of the liquid storage portion 56 of the cylinder 50.

[0177] The air inlet 62 of the first liquid storage compartment 58 can also be used as the air inlet 54 of the cylinder 50. The liquid outlet 64 of the second liquid storage compartment 60 can also be used as the liquid outlet 52 of the cylinder 50.

[0178] Figure 6 The right side similarly shows an embodiment with two liquid storage compartments 58, 60 connected in series. However, both the first liquid storage compartment 58 and the second liquid storage compartment 60 have a cylindrical shape, resulting in the cylindrical shape of the liquid storage section 56 and the cylinder 50.

[0179] Figure 7 A cross-sectional view of the aerosol generating apparatus 10 of the present invention is shown. The aerosol generating apparatus 10 includes a top portion 20 and a main portion 70. A cavity 22 for receiving an aerosol-generated article (not shown) is disposed in the top portion 20. A cylinder 50 is connected to the aerosol generating apparatus 10. The cylinder 50 is arranged between the top portion 20 and the main portion 70. Figure 7 The top part 20 corresponds to Figure 4 The top portion 20 of the embodiment.

[0180] The main portion 70 includes a main air inlet 74 and is attached to the cylinder 50 via a main cylinder connector 72. The main portion 70 includes a high-retention material 76 arranged adjacent to the air inlet 54 of the cylinder 50 to absorb potential leaks from the cylinder 50. The main portion 70 also includes a power supply 78 for powering a heating element in the top portion 20. The main portion 70, electrically connected to the power supply 78, also includes a controller 80 for controlling the power supply 78. Additionally, the aerosol generating apparatus 10 includes a conductive element 82 adapted to establish electrical contact between the top portion 20 and the main portion 70 when the cylinder 50 is attached to both the top portion 20 and the main portion 70, and when the top portion 20 is directly attached to the main portion 70. The conductive element 82 is disposed in the top portion 20, the main portion 70, and the cylinder 50. The conductive element 82 connects the heating element in the top portion 20 to the controller 80 and the power supply 78 in the main portion 70.

[0181] like Figure 7 As indicated by the curved arrows, the aerosol generating device 10 provides different paths for the airflow. (As mentioned above...) Figure 4 As shown and explained in the top portion, the first and second airflow paths extend along the top airflow channel and the additional airflow channel. The third airflow path extends along the main airflow channel from the main air inlet 74 to the main cylinder connector 72. The third airflow path further extends through the liquid contained in the liquid storage section 56. The third airflow path advantageously facilitates the extraction of liquid from the liquid storage section 56 via the liquid outlet 52.

[0182] For the purposes of this specification and the appended claims, unless otherwise stated, all figures representing quantities, quantities, percentages, etc., shall be understood to be modified by the term “about” in all cases. Furthermore, all ranges include the disclosed maximum and minimum points, and include any intermediate ranges that may be specifically listed or not listed herein. Thus, in this context, the numeral A is understood to be A ± 5% A. Within this context, the numeral A can be considered as a value within the general standard error for the measurement of the attribute modified by the numeral A. In certain instances used in the appended claims, the numeral A may deviate from the percentages listed above, provided that the amount of deviation from A does not materially affect the essential and novel features of the claimed invention. Furthermore, all ranges include the disclosed maximum and minimum points, and include any intermediate ranges that may be specifically listed or not listed herein.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating device, comprising a top portion, a main portion, and a cylinder, The top portion includes: –Top shell – Heating element, – Proximal end, the proximal end including a cavity for receiving aerosol-generated articles, – The distal end includes a top tube connector, and – Top airflow channel, which extends from the top tube connector to the cavity; The main part includes: – main housing, -power supply, – Proximal end, the proximal end of the main portion includes a main tube connector, – Main air inlet, and – Main airflow channel, which extends from the main air inlet to the main cylinder connector; The cylinder includes: – Proximal end, the proximal end of the cylinder includes a liquid outlet, – The distal end of the cylinder includes an air inlet, and - A liquid storage section, the liquid storage section being disposed between the proximal end and the distal end of the cylinder; The top cylinder connector of the top portion is removably attached to the proximal end of the cylinder, and the main cylinder connector of the main portion is removably attached to the distal end of the cylinder, such that when the cylinder is attached to both the top portion and the main portion, a continuous airflow path is provided in fluid connection from the main air inlet through the liquid contained in the liquid storage portion of the cylinder to the cavity along the main airflow channel and the top airflow channel, thereby enabling a first operating mode, and The top tube connector can be directly and removably attached to the main tube connector, thereby enabling a second operating mode.

2. The aerosol generating apparatus of claim 1, wherein the top portion includes a top air inlet and an additional airflow passage extending from the top air inlet to the cavity.

3. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein when the aerosol generating article is not received in the cavity, the proximal end of the top portion is adapted to allow attachment of a mouthpiece, thereby enabling a third operating mode.

4. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1 or claim 2, further comprising a mouthpiece, wherein the mouthpiece is removably attached to the proximal end of the top portion when the aerosol generating article is not received in the cavity.

5. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein both the top tube connector and the main tube connector include conductive elements adapted to establish electrical contact between the top portion and the main portion when the top tube connector is directly attached to the main tube connector according to the second operating mode.

6. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the heating element in the top portion comprises an induction heating element.

7. The aerosol generating apparatus of claim 6, wherein the induction heating element comprises a peripheral induction coil and a tubular sensor, the tubular sensor defining at least a portion of the top airflow channel.

8. The aerosol generating apparatus of claim 7, wherein the top portion includes a top air inlet and an additional airflow passage extending from the top air inlet to the cavity; and wherein the inductive heating element includes an additional tubular sensor defining at least a portion of the cavity.

9. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the peripheral induction coil, the tubular sensor, and the additional tubular sensor are coaxially aligned.

10. The aerosol generating apparatus of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the top portion includes a core disposed at least partially within the top airflow channel, and wherein the core is arranged to be spaced apart from the distal end of the top airflow channel.

11. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the core is a porous element.

12. The aerosol generating apparatus of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the main portion includes a high retention material arranged adjacent to the main cylinder connector to absorb potential leakage from the cylinder.

13. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the liquid outlet at the proximal end of the cylinder comprises a one-way valve.

14. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the air inlet at the distal end of the cylinder comprises a one-way valve.

15. The aerosol generating apparatus of claim 1, wherein the liquid storage portion of the cylinder comprises a liquid sensing medium.

16. The aerosol generating apparatus of claim 15, wherein the liquid sensing medium comprises a flavoring agent.

17. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 15 or claim 16, wherein the liquid sensory medium comprises nicotine.

18. The aerosol generating apparatus of claim 1, wherein the liquid storage portion of the cylinder comprises two or more liquid storage compartments connected in series.

19. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the liquid storage portion of the cylinder comprises two or more liquid storage compartments connected in parallel.

20. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 18 or claim 19, wherein at least one liquid storage compartment comprises a liquid composition different from the liquid composition of the other liquid storage compartment.

21. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the cylinder includes a conductive element adapted to establish an electrical contact between the top portion and the main portion when the cylinder is attached to both the top portion and the main portion.

22. An aerosol generation system comprising an aerosol generation apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 21, and an aerosol generation article comprising an aerosol forming matrix.

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