Mouthpiece for an aerosol generating device

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a mouthpiece (200) for an aerosol generating device, an aerosol generating device (300) comprising such a mouthpiece, a method for electrically stimulating a user's taste buds, and a method of manufacturing a mouthpiece for an aerosol generating device. The mouthpiece includes an air flow channel (230) that extends at least partially through the mouthpiece to a mouthpiece opening disposed at a proximal end of the mouthpiece. The mouthpiece includes a first electrode (240) disposed on a front surface of the mouthpiece at the mouthpiece opening to provide a first electrical contact to a user. The mouthpiece includes a second electrode (220) disposed on a lateral surface of the mouthpiece to provide a second electrical contact to a user.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a mouthpiece for an aerosol generating device, and an aerosol generating device having such a mouthpiece. The aerosol generating device can be understood as a smoking system having a liquid storage part. The present disclosure further relates to a method for electrically stimulating a user's taste buds and a method for manufacturing a mouthpiece for an aerosol generating device. Background Art

[0002] Electrically heated smoking devices or aerosol generating devices are generally known. For example, WO 2016 / 189086A1 discloses an electronic smoking device having a mouthpiece with an elongated housing having ports at opposite ends, a central passageway formed as a hollow passage through the housing in communication with the ports, contact terminals for connecting to a battery of the electronic smoking device, and a conductive element connected to the contact terminals. The conductive element is configured to connect a flavoring element for flavoring the aerosol generated by the electronic smoking device to the battery. WO 2020 / 075119 A1 discloses a vaporization system and interchangeable elements forming the system, wherein a plurality of control devices can be interchangeably combined with one or more cartridges to provide an overall vaporization system that provides customizable vaporization characteristics for the consumer. The vaporization system can further include at least one external connection device for charging and / or data communication. Other prior arts can be learned from US2020 / 147327A1 and US2017 / 0232252 A1.

[0003] The prior art electrically heated smoking systems or aerosol generating devices have many advantages over conventional cigarettes and cigars, but there is still room for improvement when compared to the standard performance of conventional smoking articles (i.e., conventional cigarettes and cigars), especially in view of potential differences in aroma and flavor.

[0004] More specifically, an aerosol generating device generates an aerosol for a user experience. The aerosol generating matrix in such an aerosol generating device can include e-liquid. E-liquid is typically a liquid formulation containing propylene glycol, glycerol, nicotine, flavorings, and additives. A user of an aerosol generating device can customize the e-liquid formulation from a range of flavorings currently available on the market. The user can choose any of the flavorings in order to have an individual choice of the user experience. However, the main solvents used in e-liquid are still propylene glycol-glycerol blends, which are organic polyols. The nature of polyols is that they have a certain degree of sweetness, which is imparted to the user's tongue. This sweetness of the e-liquid is undesirable for the user because she or he expects the user experience to mimic conventional smoking behavior.

[0005] As a result, to overcome the sweetness problem, chemicals can be added to the e-liquid to mask the sweetness. However, this also means that these chemicals will change the formulation of the e-liquid. The chemicals can also change the vaporization characteristics of the e-liquid (compared to e-liquids without chemicals), which can pose additional challenges. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to provide an improved mouthpiece for an aerosol generating device, which particularly reduces the sweetness problem.

[0007] It should be noted that the aspects of the present disclosure described below are applicable to the mouthpiece of an aerosol generating device, the aerosol generating device, a method for electrically stimulating a user's taste buds, and a method for manufacturing the mouthpiece of an aerosol generating device.

[0008] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a mouthpiece for an aerosol generating device. The mouthpiece includes an air flow channel that extends at least partially through the mouthpiece to a mouthpiece opening disposed at the proximal end of the mouthpiece.

[0009] The mouthpiece includes a first electrode disposed on the front surface of the mouthpiece to provide a first electrical contact to the user.

[0010] The mouthpiece includes a second electrode disposed on the lateral surface of the mouthpiece to provide a second electrical contact to the user.

[0011] The present mouthpiece for an aerosol generating device can provide a means for electrically stimulating the taste during consumption. It has a mouthpiece with two electrodes that can have a connection with the user's mouth and can thus stimulate the taste buds of the tongue via an electrical signal. In other words, electrical pulses can be used to provide electrogustometric stimulation on the tongue.

[0012] As a result, in terms of aroma and flavor aspects, the present mouthpiece for an aerosol generating device can allow for better performance. Stimulation via potential can enable the user to experience salty, bitter, and / or sour tastes to improve the flavor experience. The aroma and flavor aspects can provide a flavor similar to that of conventional cigarettes and cigars. This can facilitate the user's transition from conventional cigarettes and cigars to an aerosol generating device.

[0013] Furthermore, the present mouthpiece for an aerosol generating device can allow for a reduction in the sweetness caused by polyols in the e-liquid as explained above. The two electrodes can be used to stimulate the taste buds of the user's tongue to mask the sweetness of the polyols. This can work without the need for the harmful addition of the chemicals explained above to the e-liquid, which would change the formulation of the e-liquid and result in different vaporization characteristics.

[0014] A mouthpiece can be understood as a preferably replaceable mouthpiece for an aerosol generating device. The mouthpiece can include a reservoir configured to hold a liquid (i.e., e-liquid). The mouthpiece can further include an aerosol generator, which acts as a heater configured to heat the reservoir and / or the liquid to form an aerosol. The mouthpiece can be connected or reversibly connected to a power source (e.g., a battery pack), where the power source supplies power to the aerosol generator. In use, the liquid in the reservoir can be vaporized by the heater to form a supersaturated vapor. The supersaturated vapor can be mixed with an air flow and transported in the air flow. The air flow flows from an air inlet at a distal location or end to a proximal location or end, where the proximal location is the mouth end or mouthpiece opening of the device. The air flow can enter the device at the distal location of the mouthpiece. During the flow, the vapor can condense to form an aerosol, and the aerosol can be carried towards the user's mouth. The mouthpiece can be cylindrical or tubular. The mouthpiece can have a circular, oval or other cross-sectional shape. The mouthpiece can include a mouthpiece housing. The mouthpiece housing can include an inner housing disposed within the mouthpiece housing. The mouthpiece and / or its housing can surround an air flow channel.

[0015] The air flow channel can be understood as a channel configured to guide an aerosol flow through the mouthpiece and to the user. The air flow channel can be surrounded by the mouthpiece. The air flow channel can at least partially extend through the mouthpiece in a longitudinal direction to the mouthpiece opening.

[0016] It can be understood that the mouthpiece opening is configured to be inserted into the user's mouth. The mouthpiece opening can create an opening that will be engaged by the user's mouth. The mouthpiece opening can be disposed at the proximal end of the mouthpiece. The mouthpiece opening can be understood as the outlet of the air flow channel in front of the mouth end of the air flow channel.

[0017] The front of the mouthpiece can be understood as the end face of the mouthpiece. The front can extend substantially perpendicular or at an angle to the longitudinal direction of the mouthpiece and / or the air flow channel. The front can extend substantially perpendicular or at an angle to the lateral surface of the mouthpiece.

[0018] It can be understood that the lateral surface of the mouthpiece is different from the front of the mouthpiece. It can be the outer surface of the mouthpiece extending along the longitudinal direction of the mouthpiece. The lateral surface can be the circumferential or outer peripheral surface of the mouthpiece.

[0019] The first electrode and the second electrode are different electrodes. They are positioned at different locations to provide different contact areas for the user. For example, the user can touch the first electrical contact with their tongue. For example, the user can touch the second electrode with another part of their tongue or their lips. The plane of the first electrode can be at an angle to the plane of the second electrode, and preferably substantially perpendicular to the plane of the second electrode. The first electrode can extend above part or the entire front of the mouthpiece at the mouthpiece opening. The first electrode can also extend above a part of the lateral surface of the mouthpiece. The second electrode can extend above part or the entire lateral surface of the mouthpiece. The electrodes can be made of a conductive material, which is preferably a metal and more preferably a silver compound. The electrodes can have dimensions in the range of, for example, 20mm x 15mm x 0.2mm.

[0020] In an embodiment, the first electrical contact on the front of the mouthpiece can be accessible to the tip of the user's tongue. This means that when in use, the first electrical contact can be in a position where it is touched by the tip of the tongue and its taste buds. It can face the tip of the tongue. The first electrical contact can provide a first potential to the tip of the tongue, which is particularly sensitive to taste sensations (e.g., saltiness).

[0021] In an embodiment, the second electrical contact on the lateral surface of the mouthpiece can be accessible to the central area on the user's tongue. This means that when in use, the second electrical contact can be in a position where it is touched by the central part of the tongue, which is different from the tip of the tongue and is "behind" the tip of the tongue. It can substantially face the central part of the tongue and its taste buds. The second electrical contact can provide a potential difference between different parts of the tongue. The potential difference between the first potential and the second potential can stimulate the taste buds of the tongue to impart an artificial taste to the tongue. For example, the second electrode can be accessible to areas of the tongue that sense saltiness, sourness, or bitterness. In an embodiment, the second electrode is accessible to areas of the tongue other than the area that senses the "sweet" taste to mask the sweetness of the polyol.

[0022] In another embodiment, the second electrical contact on the lateral surface of the mouthpiece can be accessible to the user's lips. This means that when in use, the second electrical contact can be in a position where it is touched by the user's lips. The second electrical contact can provide a second potential to the lips to provide a potential difference between the first potential at the tongue and the second potential at the lips. The potential difference can stimulate the taste buds of the tongue to impart an artificial taste to the tongue to mask the sweetness of the polyol.

[0023] In an embodiment, the second electrical contact on the lateral surface of the mouthpiece can be accessible to the user's lower lip. In another embodiment, the second electrical contact on the lateral surface of the mouthpiece can be accessible to the user's upper lip. In other words, the second electrical contact can be arranged and configured to touch the upper lip or the lower lip. The second electrical contact can also at least partially surround the mouthpiece to touch both lips.

[0024] In an embodiment, the first electrode may extend coaxially at least partially within the air flow channel. This means that the first electrode not only extends in front of the mouthpiece, but may also extend longitudinally into and along the air flow channel. The first electrode may at least partially cover the inner surface of the air flow channel. Thereby, the first electrode has a large surface area that allows for cooling of the electrode, for example, by means of the air flow.

[0025] In an embodiment, the second electrode may extend coaxially at least partially within the air flow channel. The second electrode may at least partially cover the inner surface of the air flow channel. In addition to or instead of the first electrode, the second electrode may also extend longitudinally into and along the air flow channel. Thereby, the second electrode has a large surface area that allows for cooling of the electrode, for example, by means of the air flow. Preferably, the first electrode extends along the air flow channel in one part of the air flow channel, and the second electrode extends along the air flow channel in another part of the air flow channel without contacting the first electrode.

[0026] In an embodiment, the second electrode may include an upper element arranged at an upper part of the mouthpiece body and a separate lower element arranged at an opposite lower part of the mouthpiece body. This means that the second electrode may include at least two parts or elements arranged at different positions or parts of the mouthpiece body. As a result, the second electrode may be accessible to different body parts of the user (e.g., the upper lip and the lower lip). This may enhance the user experience.

[0027] In an embodiment, the mouthpiece for the aerosol generating device may further include a third electrode arranged in the mouthpiece body to provide a third electrical contact. The third electrical contact may be accessible to a third region of the mouth that is different from the first and second regions. As a result, three different body parts of the user may be used for taste stimulation, such as the tongue, the upper lip and the lower lip, or a first part of the tongue, a second different part of the tongue, and the lips. This may also enhance the user experience. Of course, the mouthpiece for the aerosol generating device may include even more than three electrodes.

[0028] In an embodiment, the mouthpiece may be reversibly connected to or connected to a power source. The power source may be configured to provide a potential between the first electrode and the second electrode to stimulate the taste buds. The power source may be a battery or a battery pack. It may be rechargeable. The connection between the mouthpiece and the power source may be reversible.

[0029] In an embodiment, the potential may be an alternating potential. It may have a frequency in the range of 50 Hz to 1200 Hz, preferably 500 Hz to 700 Hz. Such frequencies may have a significant effect on human tissue without causing vibration of the electrodes.

[0030] In an embodiment, the power supply can be configured to provide a potential with a current in the range of 20 μA to 300 μA, preferably 20 μA to 200 μA, more preferably 40 μA to 180 μA, and even more preferably 100 μA to 130 μA. The current can be an alternating current, preferably having a step of 20 μA, to provide a distinguishable stimulation intensity.

[0031] In an embodiment, the mouthpiece can further include a temperature unit configured to control the temperature of the first electrode and / or the second electrode. Thus, the temperature unit can include means for adjusting the temperature of the electrode, for example, such as a heat sink. The heat sink can be a thermoelectric cooler, for example, a micro Peltier element. Its size can be in the range of, for example, 1.0 mm x 1.6 mm x 0.62 mm to 6 mm x 5.1 mm x 0.62 mm. The heat sink can be arranged in contact with the first electrode and / or the second electrode. The heat sink can allow heat transfer away from the first electrode and / or the second electrode to cool the first electrode and / or the second electrode. Cooling the first electrode and / or the second electrode can avoid an uncomfortable heat sensation at the user's tongue and / or lips.

[0032] In an embodiment, the heat transfer element can be configured to physically contact the housing of the mouthpiece. Such contact can transfer heat from the first electrode and / or the second electrode to the mouthpiece housing to more effectively cool the first electrode and / or the second electrode. To provide sufficient heat capacity for cooling the electrodes, the mouthpiece housing can be made of a dense material that allows storage and dissipation of thermal energy, such as aluminum or ceramic. Additional heat sink materials can be used.

[0033] In an embodiment, the heat sink can include thermal grease. The thermal grease can be arranged between the respective electrode and the mouthpiece housing. The thermal grease can improve heat transfer and thereby improve the cooling of the first electrode and / or the second electrode.

[0034] In an embodiment, the temperature unit can be configured to control the temperature of the first electrode and / or the second electrode in the range of 20 to 35 degrees Celsius, preferably 22 to 25 degrees Celsius. This temperature range seems to be very comfortable for the user's mouth.

[0035] Generally speaking, the present mouthpiece can optionally use electrical pulses within a controlled temperature range for taste stimulation. Preferably, the electrical pulses have an alternating potential with different frequencies or different currents or both. The current, frequency, and / or temperature, alone or in combination, can produce different flavors and can reduce or eliminate the sweetness of the e-liquid. This can be achieved without additional chemicals to mask the sweetness and thus does not require any change to the formulation of existing e-liquids.

[0036] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an aerosol generating device is provided. The aerosol generating device includes a mouthpiece, a power source, and a control unit as described above. The control unit and the power source may be connected to the mouthpiece.

[0037] The mouthpiece includes an aerosol generator and a liquid reservoir. The aerosol generator is configured to heat the liquid from the liquid reservoir to form an aerosol.

[0038] The power source is configured to provide a potential between a first electrode and a second electrode of the mouthpiece.

[0039] The control unit is configured to control the potential provided by the power source. The control unit may be part of the power source or part of the mouthpiece.

[0040] Therefore, the present aerosol generating device can provide a device for electrically stimulating the taste during consumption. It has a mouthpiece with two electrodes, and the two electrodes may have a connection with the user's mouth to stimulate the taste buds of the tongue via an electrical signal. The electrical signal can bring an artificial taste stimulus on the tongue.

[0041] As a result, the present aerosol generating device can deliver in terms of aroma and flavor, which can facilitate the transition of the user from conventional cigarettes and cigars to the aerosol generating device. The present aerosol generating device can further allow reducing or eliminating the sweetness problem caused by polyols in the e-liquid by stimulating the taste buds of the user's tongue to mask the sweetness of the polyols.

[0042] In an embodiment, the power source may also be configured to supply energy to the aerosol generator. This means that the power source can be the sole power source of the aerosol generating device, and it can be used to provide a potential between the first electrode and the second electrode, and to provide the energy for heating the e-liquid to generate an aerosol. This makes the aerosol generating device very efficient and / or allows reducing the number of components. Of course, there may also be two different power sources for heating the e-liquid and for providing a potential between the electrodes.

[0043] In an embodiment, the control unit may also be configured to control the amount of potential between the first electrode and the second electrode. As a result, the control unit can thereby control the intensity or strength of the electrical stimulation. This can allow adapting the aerosol generating device to each user.

[0044] In an embodiment, the aerosol-generating device may include a power supply housing that houses a power supply. The power supply housing may have a first portion at its outer surface that is configured to overlap and interact with a corresponding second portion disposed on the mouthpiece. As a result, it is easy to reliably attach or connect the power supply housing to the mouthpiece to form an aerosol-generating device. The connection between the power supply housing and the mouthpiece may prevent fluid (including liquid and gas) from flowing between the power supply and the mouthpiece. In an embodiment, the power supply housing and the mouthpiece may be attached by any means known in the art, including mating engagement or complementary lock and key type mating, screw attachment, friction fit, snap fit, magnetic attachment, or other attachment.

[0045] In an embodiment, the aerosol-generating device may include a button. The button may be configured to activate the aerosol generator. The button may be configured to activate the potential between a first electrode and a second electrode. As a result, it may allow turning on and off the aerosol generator and / or artificial taste stimulation.

[0046] In an embodiment, the button may be further configured to control the amount of potential between the first electrode and the second electrode. As a result, it may further control the intensity of the electrical stimulation and thereby allow adjustment of the intensity of the taste stimulation.

[0047] As a result, the present aerosol-generating device may allow improvement of the taste by electrical stimulation during consumption. It may further allow a customizable electrical stimulation experience by adjusting the taste intensity by the user and / or by means of a preset based on the device's usage tracking history. The present aerosol-generating device may further allow an appropriate temperature of the user contact area by controlling the electrode temperature via a heat transfer element that dissipates heat using the housing of the aerosol generator. It may still allow a specific position of the electrodes to ensure full and ergonomic functionality.

[0048] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a method for electrically stimulating a user's taste buds is also provided. The method for electrically stimulating a user's taste buds includes the following steps, not necessarily in this order:

[0049] - providing a mouthpiece as described above, and

[0050] - providing a potential between a first electrode and a second electrode of the mouthpiece to stimulate taste buds on the user's tongue.

[0051] The present method for electrically stimulating taste buds may provide a means for electrically stimulating taste during consumption. In view of the aroma and flavor aspects, it may allow better performance. The present method for electrical stimulation may further allow reduction of this sweetness caused by polyols in the e-liquid by covering the sweetness by electrical stimulation.

[0052] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a method of manufacturing a mouthpiece. The method of manufacturing a mouthpiece includes the following steps, not necessarily in this order:

[0053] - providing a mouthpiece (initial or original mouthpiece element), the mouthpiece including an air flow passage that extends at least partially through the mouthpiece to a mouthpiece opening disposed at a proximal end of the mouthpiece,

[0054] - disposing a first electrode on a front surface of the mouthpiece to provide a first electrical contact to a user, and

[0055] - disposing a second electrode on a lateral surface of the mouthpiece to provide a second electrical contact to the user (and providing a final or finished mouthpiece).

[0056] The present manufacturing method for a mouthpiece can provide a mouthpiece that electrically stimulates the taste during consumption. The manufacturing method is easy to implement and produces a reliable and safe mouthpiece. In view of the aromatic and flavor aspects, the mouthpiece allows for better performance. The mouthpiece can allow for reducing the sweetness caused by polyols in the e-liquid by means of electrical stimulation.

[0057] The following provides a non-exhaustive list of non-limiting examples. Any one or more features of these examples can be combined with any one or more features of another example, embodiment, or aspect described herein.

[0058] A. A mouthpiece for an aerosol generating device, comprising:

[0059] - an air flow passage that extends at least partially through the mouthpiece to a mouthpiece opening disposed at a proximal end of the mouthpiece,

[0060] - a first electrode disposed on a front surface of the mouthpiece to provide a first electrical contact to a user, and

[0061] - a second electrode disposed on a lateral surface of the mouthpiece to provide a second electrical contact to the user.

[0062] B. The mouthpiece according to technical solution A, wherein the first electrical contact on the front surface of the mouthpiece is accessible to the tip of the user's tongue.

[0063] C. The mouthpiece according to technical solution A or B, wherein the second electrical contact on the lateral surface of the mouthpiece is accessible to a central region on the user's tongue.

[0064] D. The mouthpiece according to technical solution A or B, wherein the second electrical contact on the lateral surface of the mouthpiece is accessible to the user's lips.

[0065] E. The mouthpiece according to aspect D of the technical solution, wherein the second electrical contact on the lateral surface of the mouthpiece is accessible to the lower lip of the user.

[0066] F. The mouthpiece according to aspect D of the technical solution, wherein the second electrical contact on the lateral surface of the mouthpiece is accessible to the upper lip of the user.

[0067] G. The mouthpiece according to one of the foregoing aspects of the technical solution, wherein the first electrode extends coaxially at least partially in the air flow channel.

[0068] H. The mouthpiece according to one of the foregoing aspects of the technical solution, wherein the second electrode extends coaxially at least partially in the air flow channel.

[0069] I. The mouthpiece according to one of the foregoing aspects of the technical solution, wherein the second electrode includes an upper element arranged at an upper part of the mouthpiece body and a separate lower element arranged at an opposite lower part of the mouthpiece body.

[0070] J. The mouthpiece according to one of the foregoing aspects of the technical solution, further comprising a third electrode arranged in the mouthpiece body to provide a third electrical contact accessible to a third region of the mouth, the third region being different from the first region and the second region.

[0071] K. The mouthpiece according to one of the foregoing aspects of the technical solution, including or connectable to a power source configured to provide a potential between the first electrode and the second electrode.

[0072] L. The mouthpiece according to the foregoing aspect of the technical solution, wherein the potential is an alternating potential having a frequency in the range of 50 Hz to 1200 Hz.

[0073] M. The mouthpiece according to aspect K or L of the technical solution, wherein the power source is configured to provide the potential with a current in the range of 20 μA to 300 μA.

[0074] N. The mouthpiece according to one of the foregoing aspects of the technical solution, further comprising a temperature unit configured to control the temperature of the first electrode and / or the second electrode, wherein the temperature unit includes at least a heat sink arranged in contact with the first electrode and / or the second electrode.

[0075] O. The mouthpiece according to the foregoing aspect of the technical solution, wherein the heat sink includes thermal paste.

[0076] P. The mouthpiece according to aspect N or O of the technical solution, wherein the heat transfer element is configured to contact the mouthpiece housing of the mouthpiece.

[0077] Q. A mouthpiece according to one of technical solutions N to P, wherein the temperature unit is configured to control the temperature of the first electrode and / or the second electrode within a range of 20 to 35 degrees Celsius.

[0078] R. An aerosol generating device, comprising:

[0079] - A mouthpiece according to one of the foregoing technical solutions,

[0080] - A power source, and

[0081] - A control unit,

[0082] The mouthpiece includes an aerosol generator and a liquid reservoir, wherein the aerosol generator is configured to heat the liquid from the liquid reservoir to form an aerosol,

[0083] The power source is configured to provide a potential between a first electrode and a second electrode of the mouthpiece,

[0084] The control unit is configured to control the potential provided by the power source, and

[0085] The control unit and the power source are connectable to the mouthpiece.

[0086] S. The aerosol generating device according to the foregoing technical solution, wherein the power source is further configured to supply energy to the aerosol generator for heating the aerosol.

[0087] T. The aerosol generating device according to one of technical solutions R to S, wherein the control unit is further configured to control the amount of potential between the first electrode and the second electrode, and thereby control the intensity of the electrical stimulation.

[0088] U. The aerosol generating device according to one of technical solutions R to T, wherein the power source housing of the power source includes a first part configured to overlap and interact with a correspondingly shaped second part disposed at the mouthpiece.

[0089] V. The aerosol generating device according to one of technical solutions R to U, further comprising a button configured to activate the aerosol generator and / or the potential between the first electrode and the second electrode.

[0090] W. The aerosol generating device according to the foregoing technical solution, wherein the button is further configured to control the amount of potential between the first electrode and the second electrode, and thereby control the intensity of the electrical stimulation.

[0091] X. A method for electrically stimulating a user's taste buds, comprising:

[0092] - Provide a mouthpiece according to one of technical solutions A to Q, and

[0093] - Provide a potential between a first electrode and a second electrode of the mouthpiece to stimulate taste buds on the tongue of the user.

[0094] Y. A method of manufacturing a mouthpiece for an aerosol generating device, comprising:

[0095] - Provide a mouthpiece including an air flow channel that extends at least partially through the mouthpiece to a mouthpiece opening disposed at a proximal end of the mouthpiece,

[0096] - Dispose a first electrode on a front surface of the mouthpiece to provide a first electrical contact to the user, and

[0097] - Dispose a second electrode on a lateral surface of the mouthpiece to provide a second electrical contact to the user. Description of the Drawings

[0098] Several examples will now be further described with reference to the drawings, wherein:

[0099] Figure 1a and 1b Schematically and by way of example, embodiments of an aerosol generating device according to the present disclosure are shown.

[0100] Figure 2a 、 2b and 2c schematically and by way of example show embodiments of a mouthpiece for an aerosol generating device according to the present disclosure.

[0101] Figure 3 Schematically and by way of example, another embodiment of a mouthpiece for an aerosol generating device according to the present disclosure is shown. Detailed Description

[0102] Figure 1a and 1b show an aerosol generating device 300 according to the present disclosure. The aerosol generating device 300 includes a power supply housing 100 and a mouthpiece 200. In Figure 1a , the power supply housing 100 and the mouthpiece 200 are assembled; in Figure 1b , the power supply housing 100 and the mouthpiece 200 are disassembled into separate parts.

[0103] The mouthpiece 200 includes an aerosol generator (not shown) and a liquid reservoir (not shown). The aerosol generator is configured to heat a liquid from the liquid reservoir to form an aerosol.

[0104] The mouthpiece 200 includes a first electrode 240 disposed on the front F of the mouthpiece 200 to provide a first electrical contact to the user. The mouthpiece 200 includes a second electrode 220 disposed on the lateral surface L of the mouthpiece 200 to provide a second electrical contact to the user. When in use, the user's tongue contacts the first electrode 240, and for example, the lower lip contacts the second electrode 220. The mouthpiece 200 includes an air flow channel 230 extending through the mouthpiece 200 (see Figure 2a -c).

[0105] The power supply housing 100 includes a power supply 130 and a control unit 110. The power supply housing 100 and thus the control unit 110 and the power supply 130 can be reversibly connected to the mouthpiece 200.

[0106] The power supply 130 includes a battery configured to provide a potential between the first electrode 240 and the second electrode 220 of the mouthpiece 200.

[0107] The control unit 110 is configured to control the potential provided by the power supply 130. The control unit 110 and the two electrodes 220, 240 form a circuit. If the user touches the electrodes 220, 240 with her or his lips or tongue, the circuit is closed (through the user) between the two electrodes 220, 240, and this is recognized by the control unit 110. The control unit 110 then starts to provide an artificial taste stimulus. The control unit 110 can also control the intermittent operation of the taste stimulus to optimize taste sensitivity.

[0108] When the user activates the aerosol generator device 300, aerosol generation occurs, and the electrodes 240, 220 on the mouthpiece 200 receive a potential. The potential and current between the first electrode 240 and the second electrode 220 act on the user's tongue through an artificial taste stimulus based on the potential and / or current. Preferably, the alternating current is in the range of 20 μA to 200 μA here, with a step of 20 μA, and provides a distinguishable stimulus intensity. The frequency of the alternating potential is in the range of 50 Hz to 1200 Hz here.

[0109] The power supply housing 100 further includes a button 120 that can be pressed to turn on or off the aerosol generator device 300, for example when it is pressed for a longer duration. The button 120 can also be pressed intermittently during the operation of the aerosol generator device 300 to control the intermittent operation of the taste stimulus to optimize taste sensitivity. The control via the button 120 can replace or supplement the control via the control unit 110. The control unit 110 can store the preferred settings in an internal memory to adjust the intensity of the taste stimulus at the start according to the user's preferred settings.

[0110] The power supply housing 100 further includes a first portion 140 that physically contacts and overlaps a corresponding second portion on the mouthpiece 200 to allow a reliable mechanical connection between the power supply housing 100 and the mouthpiece 200.

[0111] Figures 2a to 2c A mouthpiece 200 according to the present disclosure is shown. Figure 2a A cross-section through the mouthpiece 200 is shown in a side view. Figure 2b A cross-section through the mouthpiece 200 is shown in a front view. Figure 2c In Figure 2a A cross-section through the mouthpiece 200 is shown in a rear view along section Z-Z in

[0112] As described Figures 2a to 2c above, the mouthpiece 200 surrounds an airflow passage 230 through the mouthpiece 200. Two electrodes 240, 220 for electrical stimulation are arranged at the mouthpiece 200. Here, the first electrode 240 extends coaxially from the front F as a long portion along the longitudinal axis of the air passage 230. The second electrode 220 is arranged on the lateral surface L of the mouthpiece 200.

[0113] The first electrode 240 is in contact with a thermoelectric cooling element 260 using a thermal conductive paste on a first side 261 and a second side 262. The second electrode 220 is in contact with another thermoelectric cooling element 250 using a thermal contact paste on another first side 251 and another second side 251. Both of these thermoelectric cooling elements 250, 260 are in contact with the mouthpiece housing 210 of the mouthpiece 200 such that heat transfer is effective between the electrodes 240, 220 and the mouthpiece housing 210 to maintain a suitable temperature on the electrodes 240, 220. In addition, the mouthpiece 200 and the mouthpiece housing 210 transfer heat to a corresponding overlapping or tapered portion 140 of the heat dissipating power supply housing 100 within the overlapping or tapered portion. The operating temperature range of the aerosol generator device 300 is between 24°C and 35°C here.

[0114] The mouthpiece housing 210 includes an inner housing 211 here, which also has heat conduction ability. The mouthpiece housing 210 and the inner housing 211 are elliptical tubular here and create an air passage 230 in the mouthpiece 200.

[0115] Figure 3 Another embodiment of the mouthpiece 200 according to the present disclosure is shown in a lateral cross-section. This mouthpiece 200 instead has a second electrode 220 in an extended manner such that both lips (the upper lip and the lower lip) of the user can touch the second electrode 220 while the first electrode 240 remains in contact with the tongue. Thus, the second electrode 220 includes an upper element and a lower element.

[0116] For the purposes of this specification and the appended claims, all numbers expressing quantities, amounts, percentages, etc., are to be understood as being modified in all instances by the term "about" unless otherwise indicated. Further, all ranges include the maximum and minimum points disclosed, and include any intermediate ranges that may be specifically enumerated or may not be enumerated herein. Thus, in this context, the number A is understood to be A ± 20% A. Within this context, the number A may be considered to include values within the normal standard error for the measurement of the property modified by the number A. In some instances used in the appended claims, the number A may deviate from the percentage listed above, provided that the amount by which A deviates does not materially affect the basic and novel characteristics of the disclosure for which patent protection is sought. Further, all ranges include the maximum and minimum points disclosed, and include any intermediate ranges that may be specifically enumerated or may not be enumerated herein.

[0117] Although illustrative examples of the present disclosure have been described above in part with reference to the accompanying drawings, it is to be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to these examples. Variations of the disclosed examples can be understood and effected by those skilled in the art from a study of the drawings, the specification, and the appended claims.

[0118] In the claims, any reference signs placed in parentheses shall not be construed as limiting the claim. The term "comprising" does not exclude the presence of elements or steps other than those listed in a claim. The word "a" or "an" preceding an element does not exclude the presence of a plurality of such elements. The present disclosure may be implemented by means of hardware comprising several distinct elements. In a device claim enumerating several devices, several of these devices may be embodied by the same item of hardware. The fact that certain means are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these means cannot be used to advantage.

Claims

1. A mouthpiece (200) for an aerosol generating device (300), comprising: - An air flow channel (230) that at least partially extends through the mouthpiece (200) to a mouthpiece opening disposed at the proximal end of the mouthpiece. - A first electrode (240) disposed on a front surface (F) of the mouthpiece (200), the front surface (F) being a surface that extends substantially perpendicular or at an angle to the longitudinal direction of the mouthpiece (200), and - A second electrode (220) disposed on a lateral surface (L) of the mouthpiece (200), the lateral surface being the outer peripheral surface of the mouthpiece (200). When using the aerosol generating device (300), the first electrode (240) provides a first electrical contact to the user, and When using the aerosol generating device (300), the second electrode (220) provides a second electrical contact to the user.

2. The mouthpiece (200) according to claim 1, wherein the first electrical contact on the front surface (F) of the mouthpiece (200) is accessible to the user's tongue tip.

3. The mouthpiece (200) according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the second electrical contact on the lateral surface (L) of the mouthpiece (200) is accessible to a central region on the user's tongue.

4. The mouthpiece (200) according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the second electrical contact on the lateral surface (L) of the mouthpiece (200) is accessible to the user's lips.

5. The mouthpiece (200) according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the second electrode (220) comprises at least two elements disposed at different positions on the mouthpiece (200) to be accessible to different body parts of the user.

6. The mouthpiece (200) according to claim 1, wherein the mouthpiece (200) is reversibly connectable to a power source (130) configured to provide a potential between the first electrode (240) and the second electrode (220).

7. The mouthpiece (200) according to claim 6, wherein the power source (130) is configured to provide the potential as an alternating potential with a frequency in the range of 50 Hz to 1200 Hz.

8. The mouthpiece (200) according to claim 6 or claim 7, wherein the power source (130) is configured to provide the potential with a current in the range of 20 μA to 300 μA.

9. The mouthpiece (200) according to claim 1, further comprising a temperature unit configured to control the temperature of the first electrode (240) and / or the second electrode (220), wherein the temperature unit at least comprises a heat sink disposed in contact with the first electrode (240) and / or the second electrode (220).

10. The mouthpiece (200) according to claim 9, wherein the heat sink comprises a thermal paste.

11. The mouthpiece (200) according to claim 9 or 10, wherein the temperature unit is configured to control the temperature of the first electrode (240) and / or the second electrode (220) within a range of 20 to 35 degrees Celsius.

12. An aerosol generating device (300), comprising: - the mouthpiece (200) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, - a power source (130), and - a control unit (110), wherein the mouthpiece (200) includes an aerosol generator and a liquid reservoir, and the aerosol generator is configured to heat a liquid from the liquid reservoir to form an aerosol, the power source (130) is configured to provide a potential between a first electrode (240) and a second electrode (220) of the mouthpiece (200), the control unit (110) is configured to control the potential provided by the power source (130), and the control unit (110) and the power source (130) are connectable to the mouthpiece (200).

13. The aerosol generating device (300) according to claim 12, wherein the power source housing (100) includes a first portion configured to overlap and interact with a correspondingly shaped second portion disposed at the mouthpiece (200).

14. A method for electrically stimulating a user's taste buds, comprising: - providing the mouthpiece (200) according to one of claims 1 to 11, and - providing a potential between a first electrode (240) and a second electrode (220) of the mouthpiece (200) to stimulate taste buds on the user's tongue.

15. A method for manufacturing a mouthpiece (200) for an aerosol generating device (300), comprising: - providing a mouthpiece (200) including an air flow channel (230) that at least partially extends through the mouthpiece (200) to a mouthpiece opening disposed at a proximal end of the mouthpiece (200), - disposing a first electrode (240) on a front surface (F) of the mouthpiece (200), the front surface (F) being a surface that extends substantially perpendicular or at an angle to a longitudinal direction of the mouthpiece (200), and - disposing a second electrode (220) on a lateral surface (L) of the mouthpiece (200), the lateral surface (L) being an outer peripheral surface of the mouthpiece (200), wherein the first electrode (240) is configured to provide a first electrical contact to a user when the aerosol generating device (300) is in use, and the second electrode (220) is configured to provide a second electrical contact to a user when the aerosol generating device (300) is in use.

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