Aerosol-generating article with multi-compartment liquid reservoir

Abstract

The present invention relates to an aerosol-generating article for use with an aerosol-generating device. The article comprises an open-ended hollow cylindrical reservoir body comprising a tubular outer wall and an inner partition wall extending between two opposite inner portions of the tubular outer wall thereby partitioning an inner void of the reservoir body into a first compartment and a second compartment, wherein the first and second compartments are arranged laterally adjacent to each other along a longitudinal axis of the reservoir body. In addition, the article comprises a first end cap attached to a first end portion of the reservoir body sealingly closing at least the first compartment at the first end portion of the reservoir body. The article further comprises a second end cap attached to a second end portion of the reservoir body sealingly closing the first and second compartments at the second end portion of the reservoir body. The second end cap comprises a fluid passage providing fluid communication between the first and second compartments. The present invention also relates to an aerosol-generating system comprising such an article and an aerosol-generating device for use with the article. The present disclosure also relates to a method of manufacturing such an article.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to an aerosol generating article for use with an aerosol generating apparatus, the aerosol generating article comprising a liquid reservoir for storing an aerosol-forming liquid. This disclosure also relates to an aerosol generating system comprising such an article and an aerosol generating apparatus for use with said article. This disclosure further relates to a method of manufacturing such an article. Background Technology

[0002] Generating inhalable aerosols by heating aerosol-forming liquids is known in the prior art. For this purpose, a liquid aerosol-forming matrix can be transported from a liquid reservoir to an area outside the reservoir via a liquid conduit (e.g., a wicking element). There, the liquid can be evaporated by a heater and subsequently exposed to an air path to form an inhalable aerosol. Both the liquid reservoir and the liquid conduit can be part of an aerosol-generating article configured to be inserted into an aerosol-generating device to allow the aerosol-forming liquid stored in the article to evaporate. For various purposes, the liquid reservoir can be divided into several compartments, for example, to store multiple aerosol-forming liquids in the article, or to provide several sections, each with a specific function. Such multi-compartment aerosol-generating articles have various configurations. However, many of these configurations are complex and therefore laborious to manufacture.

[0003] Therefore, it is desirable to have an aerosol-generating article comprising a multi-compartment liquid reservoir, which has the advantages of existing technical solutions while mitigating their limitations. Specifically, it is desirable to have an aerosol-generating article with a multi-compartment liquid reservoir that is easy to manufacture and inexpensive. Summary of the Invention

[0004] According to the present invention, an aerosol generating article for use with an aerosol generating apparatus is provided. The article comprises a tubular, particularly hollow cylindrical, reservoir body with an open end, the reservoir body including a tubular outer wall and an inner partition wall extending between two opposing internal portions of the tubular outer wall, thereby dividing the internal space of the reservoir body into a first compartment and a second compartment. The first and second compartments are laterally arranged adjacent to each other along a longitudinal axis of the reservoir body. Additionally, the article includes a first end cap attached to a first end of the reservoir body, the first end cap sealingly closing at least the first compartment at the first end of the reservoir body. The article also includes a second end cap attached to a second end of the reservoir body, the second end cap sealingly closing the first and second compartments at the second end of the reservoir body. The second end cap includes a fluid passage providing fluid communication between the first and second compartments.

[0005] According to the present invention, it has been found that assembling separate parts into an article facilitates the manufacture of the article, as these parts are easy and inexpensive to manufacture individually. In this sense, the article can be easily manufactured by separately manufacturing the open-end hollow cylindrical reservoir body, the first end cap, and the second end cap, and subsequently attaching the first end cap to the first end of the reservoir body and the second end cap to the second end of the reservoir body. That is, the reservoir body, the first end cap, and the second end cap are separate parts, particularly non-integral parts, meaning they are not integrally formed. Specifically, the reservoir body, the first end cap, and the second end cap are separate from each other before attaching the first end cap to the first end of the reservoir body and the second end cap to the second end of the reservoir body. However, even after attaching the first end cap to the first end of the reservoir body and the second end cap to the second end of the reservoir body, the reservoir body, the first end cap, and the second end cap remain separate (non-integral) parts, particularly not integrally formed. Since the reservoir body is open-end and hollow cylindrical, manufacturing is also simplified. That is, at least the tubular outer wall has a cylindrical shape and therefore a fixed cross-sectional shape along its longitudinal axis, that is, along the longitudinal axis (cylindrical axis) of the reservoir body. As a result, at least the tubular outer wall of the reservoir body can be manufactured by extrusion. Subsequently, an inner partition wall can be installed between two opposing internal portions of the tubular outer wall to divide the internal void of the reservoir body into a first compartment and a second compartment. Thus, the reservoir body is at least partially an extruded body. In this configuration, the tubular outer wall and the partition wall can be bonded together by adhesive, for example, by welding or gluing. Advantageously, adhesive bonding provides a seal between the first and second compartments, wherein the partition wall and the tubular outer wall are joined together.

[0006] Preferably, the partition wall is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the reservoir body. That is, the cross-sectional profiles of the tubular outer wall and the inner partition wall are fixed along the longitudinal axis of the reservoir body. Therefore, the reservoir body as a whole has a fixed cross-sectional profile along its longitudinal axis. Advantageously, this allows the entire reservoir body to be manufactured by extrusion. Therefore, the reservoir body as a whole can be an extruded body. Specifically, the tubular outer wall and the inner partition wall can be integral with each other. Therefore, the reservoir body as a whole can be extruded into one piece. That is, the reservoir body can be a one-piece extruded body. One-piece extruded reservoir bodies are particularly easy to manufacture and inexpensive. In addition, one-piece extruded reservoir bodies do not require a seal between the first and second compartments, where the partition wall and the tubular outer wall are joined together.

[0007] Alternatively, the tubular outer wall and the inner partition wall can be manufactured as separate parts by extrusion. The extruded inner partition wall can then be installed between two opposing inner portions of the extruded tubular outer wall to divide the internal space of the reservoir body into a first compartment and a second compartment. Preferably, as described above, the tubular outer wall and the partition wall can be bonded together by adhesive, for example, by welding or gluing.

[0008] Compared to other manufacturing processes, the main advantage of extrusion is its ability to produce complex cross-sections and process brittle materials, as the material is subjected to only compressive and shear stresses during the extrusion process. Extrusion also produces parts with good surface finishes.

[0009] Generally, extrusion can be continuous or semi-continuous. Semi-continuous extrusion allows for the direct production of many individual small pieces. In contrast, continuous extrusion allows for the production of continuous body contours, which can then be cut into individual bodies. Therefore, regardless of whether the reservoir body is a partially or entirely extruded body, the reservoir body can be manufactured by continuous extrusion or by semi-continuous extrusion.

[0010] Alternatively, the reservoir body, particularly at least one of the tubular outer wall and the inner partition wall, may be manufactured by injection molding. Similarly, at least one of the first end cap and the second end cap may be manufactured by injection molding. Depending on their shape, at least one of the first end cap and the second end cap may also be manufactured by extrusion.

[0011] The tubular outer wall, and therefore the reservoir body, can have any external cross-sectional shape. The external cross-sectional shape refers to the outline shape of the tubular outer wall and the reservoir body as seen in a cross-sectional view perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the reservoir body. Therefore, the reservoir body, especially the tubular outer wall, can have a circular, elliptical, oval, triangular, rectangular, square, hexagonal, or polygonal external cross-sectional shape.

[0012] The arrangement of the inner partition walls within the tubular outer wall can be asymmetrical relative to the cross-section of the reservoir body perpendicular to its longitudinal axis. This configuration can be used to achieve first and second compartments with different volumes. That is, the volume of the first compartment can be different from, and in particular larger than or smaller than, the volume of the second compartment.

[0013] The different volumes of the first and second compartments can be used to store different amounts of aerosol-forming liquid in the article of manufacture. For example, the volume of the first compartment can be smaller than the volume of the second compartment. In this configuration, the first compartment can be used as the main reservoir, while the second compartment can be used at least partially as a buffer reservoir. Details of this configuration will be described in more detail below.

[0014] When one of the first or second compartments is at least partially used as an evaporation zone, an asymmetrical arrangement of the partition walls can also prove advantageous, in which the aerosol-forming liquid can be evaporated by inductive heating using a sensor within the evaporation zone. Thus, the article can include an evaporation zone comprising a sensor eccentrically arranged about the geometrical central axis of the aerosol-generating article. Consequently, the evaporation zone and the sensor can be eccentrically arranged about the axis of symmetry of the alternating magnetic field generated by the inductively heated aerosol-generating device, into which the aerosol-generating article can be inserted for heating the aerosol-forming liquid within the evaporation zone. Advantageously, due to the eccentric arrangement, the evaporation zone and the sensor are arranged in a region of the alternating magnetic field with a higher field density compared to the symmetric central arrangement. Therefore, heating efficiency is improved.

[0015] The length of the inner partition wall in the direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the reservoir body can be equal to the length of the tubular outer wall. Advantageously, this configuration is particularly easy to manufacture and inexpensive, especially by extrusion.

[0016] Similarly, the length of the inner partition wall in the direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the reservoir body may be shorter than the length of the tubular outer wall. That is, the inner partition wall may be recessed relative to the outer tubular wall along its length. The recessed inner partition wall advantageously provides direct fluid communication between the first and second compartments.

[0017] The first end cap may include an outlet providing fluid communication between the second compartment and the outside of the article. The outlet may serve as an outlet for an aerosol-forming liquid stored within the article. Similarly, the outlet may serve as an outlet for aerosols generated within the aerosol-generating article by the aerosol-forming liquid stored therein, to escape from, and particularly extract from, the article.

[0018] In particular, regarding the latter case, the aerosol-generating article may also include a filter tip disposed in or attached to the outlet. The filter tip can be used to filter out unwanted components of the aerosol. The filter tip may also contain additional materials, such as flavoring materials to be added to the aerosol.

[0019] The aerosol generating apparatus also includes a mouthpiece. As used herein, the term "mouthpiece" refers to a portion of an article placed in a user's mouth for direct inhalation of an aerosol agent from the article. The mouthpiece can be another part attached to the article, particularly a separate part attached to the first end cap. In this configuration, the outlet of the first end cap is openable into the mouthpiece, and the mouthpiece may include another outlet through which the aerosol can escape from the article into the environment of the article. Alternatively, the first end cap may be formed as a mouthpiece. In this configuration, the outlet of the first end cap is openable into the environment of the article, thereby allowing the aerosol to escape therefrom. If present, the mouthpiece preferably includes a filter. The filter can be the aforementioned filter disposed in or attached to the outlet of the first end cap.

[0020] The reservoir body can be made of any suitable material. Preferably, the material of the reservoir body is at least one of electrical insulation and non-magnetic. For example, the reservoir body may comprise, or be made of, one of PP (polypropylene), PE (polyethylene), or PET (polyethylene terephthalate). PP, PE, and PET are particularly cost-effective and easy to mold, especially easy to extrude. The reservoir body may also comprise or be made of PEEK (polyetheretherketone), a heat-resistant material. Furthermore, the material of the reservoir body may have a thermal conductivity, particularly below 0.05 watts per meter and per Kelvin (W·m). -1 ·K -1 The thermal conductivity of the liquid is high. This prevents burns to the user when the aerosol formed inside the product is heated. Preferably, the reservoir body is made of plastic, especially heat-resistant plastic. At least one of the first and second end caps may be made of silicone, PP (polypropylene), PET (polyethylene terephthalate), or PE (polyethylene). Using silicone helps to seal the first and second compartments separately.

[0021] The first end cap can be attached to the reservoir body by at least one of form fit, press fit, or adhesive bonding. Similarly, the second end cap can be attached to the reservoir body by at least one of form fit, press fit, or adhesive bonding. Regarding adhesive bonding, at least one of the first and second end caps can be attached to the reservoir body by gluing or welding (especially laser welding or ultrasonic welding). As an example of press fit, at least one of the first and second end caps can be clamped to the reservoir body. As an example of form fit, at least one of the first and second end caps can be attached to the reservoir body by a snap-fit ​​connection.

[0022] The fluid passage of the second end cap may include recesses or channels formed in the second end cap to provide fluid communication between the first compartment and the second compartment. At least a portion of the fluid passage of the second end cap may be used to form a capillary buffer reservoir.

[0023] Advantageously, the fluid communication between the first and second compartments can be used to enable the first and second compartments to cooperate with each other, each compartment having a specific function, as will now be described in more detail.

[0024] In this regard, the first compartment, or at least a portion thereof, can serve as a main reservoir for storing the aerosol-forming liquid. At least a portion of the second compartment can serve as a capillary buffer reservoir in fluid communication with the main reservoir realized by the first compartment or a portion thereof. The capillary buffer can be configured to store the aerosol-forming liquid due to capillary action, so as to reliably provide a liquid conduit in fluid communication with the buffer reservoir, which has a sufficient amount of aerosol-forming liquid, independent of the article's position. For this purpose, the volume of the buffer reservoir is selected such that the capillary effect exceeds gravity. Therefore, once filled into the buffer reservoir, the aerosol-forming liquid is prevented from flowing back into the main reservoir, especially when the orientation of the article is changed, for example, from a substantially vertical position to a substantially horizontal position, or even to an inverted position. Essentially, the capillary buffer reservoir functions similarly to the buffer reservoir of a fountain pen.

[0025] To allow capillary action to overcome gravity, at least one dimension of the second compartment can be selected to be approximately the same as the effective capillary length of the aerosol-forming liquid to be stored in the buffer reservoir. Typically, for most liquids, the effective capillary length is in the range of a few millimeters. Therefore, the maximum dimension of the second compartment between the two opposing portions of the partition wall and the tubular outer wall can be between 0.2 mm and 5 mm, particularly between 0.5 mm and 3 mm, and preferably between 1 mm and 2.5 mm. These values ​​ensure sufficient capillary action while still allowing for a sufficiently large buffer volume to store a adequate amount of aerosol-forming liquid.

[0026] The capillary buffer reservoir can have a total volume of up to 60 cubic millimeters, especially up to 50 cubic millimeters, preferably up to 40 cubic millimeters, more preferably up to 30 cubic millimeters, and most preferably up to 20 cubic millimeters. These volumes still ensure proper capillary action.

[0027] Conversely, the total volume of the capillary buffer reservoir can be at least 5 cubic millimeters, especially at least 10 cubic millimeters, and preferably at least 15 cubic millimeters. These volumes are still large enough to trap and supply a sufficient amount of aerosol-forming liquid within the capillary buffer reservoir for at least several pumping operations.

[0028] As further described below, the volume of the first compartment may differ from the volume of the second compartment. Preferably, the volume of the first compartment is larger than the volume of the second compartment. This configuration has the advantage that the first compartment serves as the main buffer, while a portion of the second compartment serves as a capillary buffer reservoir. The volume of the second compartment may be up to 50% of the volume of the first compartment, particularly up to 40%, preferably up to 30%, and more preferably up to 20%.

[0029] As described above, the buffer reservoir may be only part of the second compartment. Another part of the second compartment may serve as an evaporation zone. The evaporation zone may be an area where the aerosol-forming liquid delivered when used with an aerosol-generating apparatus can evaporate. Therefore, the aerosol-generating article may include an evaporation zone, particularly an evaporation chamber, for evaporating the aerosol-forming liquid. Preferably, the evaporation zone and the buffer reservoir are separate from each other. Thus, the aerosol-generating article may include a bushing arranged transversely to, and particularly perpendicularly to, the longitudinal axis of the reservoir body within the second compartment, wherein the bushing divides the second compartment into the evaporation zone and the buffer reservoir.

[0030] The second compartment can be used entirely as an evaporation zone. In this configuration, the capillary buffer reservoir can be formed, for example, by at least a portion of a fluid channel in the second end cap, which provides fluid communication between the first and second compartments.

[0031] The aerosol generating article may also include a liquid conduit for conveying the aerosol-forming liquid from a buffer reservoir to an evaporation zone. Preferably, the liquid conduit passes through a bushing. The liquid conduit may lead into the evaporation zone. Alternatively, the liquid conduit may face the evaporation zone. Similarly, the liquid conduit may lead into the buffer reservoir. Alternatively, the liquid conduit may face the buffer reservoir. As used herein, the term "facing the buffer reservoir / evaporation zone" refers to a configuration in which the liquid conduit is in fluid communication with both the buffer reservoir and the evaporation zone, but does not lead into either the buffer reservoir or the evaporation zone.

[0032] Regarding the liquid flow through the article, the capillary buffer reservoir is preferably located downstream of the main reservoir. Similarly, regarding the liquid flow through the article, the liquid conduit is preferably located downstream of the capillary buffer reservoir.

[0033] Furthermore, regarding the liquid flow through the article, at least a portion of the fluid conduit is arranged downstream of or within the capillary buffer reservoir. Advantageously, this arrangement ensures that the liquid conduit is properly immersed in the aerosol-forming liquid intercepted in the capillary buffer reservoir. This, in turn, ensures that the aerosol-forming liquid is properly transported from the buffer reservoir to the main reservoir and to an area outside the buffer reservoir, in which the aerosol-forming liquid can evaporate.

[0034] Generally, the liquid conduit can have any shape and configuration suitable for conveying the aerosol-forming liquid from the capillary buffer reservoir to the evaporation zone. Specifically, the liquid conduit may include a wicking element. The wicking element may be constructed of stranded wire, stranded material rope, net, mesh tube, several concentric mesh tubes, cloth, material sheet or sufficiently porous foam (or other porous solid), a roll of fine metal mesh or metal foil, fiber or some other arrangement of mesh, or any other geometry suitably sized and configured to perform the wicking action described herein.

[0035] Liquid conduits, particularly wicking elements, may include bundles of filaments comprising multiple filaments. Preferably, the bundle of filaments is untwisted. In an untwisted bundle, the filaments are adjacent to each other but do not cross each other, preferably extending along the entire length of the bundle. Similarly, the bundle of filaments may include twisted portions in which the filaments are twisted together. The twisted portions enhance the mechanical stability of the bundle.

[0036] As an example, a filament bundle may include a parallel bundle portion extending along at least a portion of its length, wherein multiple filaments may be arranged parallel to each other. The parallel bundle portion may be arranged at one end portion of the filament bundle or between two end portions of the filament bundle. Alternatively, the parallel bundle portion may extend along the entire length dimension of the filament bundle.

[0037] As another example, the filament bundle may include a first soaking section, a second soaking section, and an intermediate section between the first and second soaking sections. At least along the intermediate section, multiple filaments may be arranged parallel to each other. For a particular configuration of an article having a reservoir and an evaporation zone, each of the first and second soaking sections may be at least partially arranged in the reservoir, while the intermediate section may be arranged in the evaporation zone. This applies at least to open configurations of the sealing element.

[0038] Using filaments to transport liquids is particularly advantageous because filaments inherently provide capillary action. Furthermore, in a bundle of filaments, capillary action is further enhanced due to the narrow spaces formed between the multiple filaments during bundling. Specifically, this applies to parallel arrangements of filaments, since the narrow spaces between the filaments do not change along the parallel arrangement, thus the capillary action is constant along the parallel arrangement.

[0039] Preferably, the filaments are solid material filaments. Solid material filaments are inexpensive and easy to manufacture. Furthermore, solid material filaments provide good mechanical stability, thus making the filament bundle robust. Generally, the filaments can have any cross-sectional shape suitable for conveying aerosols to form liquids, especially when bundled. Therefore, the filaments can have circular, elliptical, oval, triangular, rectangular, square, hexagonal, or polygonal cross-sections. Preferably, the filaments have a substantially circular, oval, or elliptical cross-section. With this cross-section, the filaments are not in surface contact but only in line contact with each other, resulting in the self-formation of capillary spaces between the multiple filaments.

[0040] Capillary action generally relies on the reduction of surface energy of the two independent surfaces of a filament (a liquid surface and a solid surface). Capillary action includes effects dependent on the radii of curvature of both the liquid surface and the filament. Therefore, a large surface area and a small radius of curvature may be required, both of which can be achieved through a small diameter of the filament. Thus, multiple first filaments may have diameters of up to 0.025 mm, up to 0.05 mm, up to 0.1 mm, up to 0.15 mm, up to 0.2 mm, up to 0.25 mm, up to 0.3 mm, up to 0.35 mm, up to 0.4 mm, up to 0.45 mm, or up to 0.5 mm.

[0041] Generally, a filament bundle can be a linear filament bundle, i.e., a substantially straight, non-curved, or non-bent filament bundle. This configuration does not preclude a small degree of curvature in the bundle, i.e., a large radius of curvature extending along the length of the filament bundle. As used herein, a large radius of curvature can include a radius of curvature that is 10 times, particularly 20 or 50 times, or particularly 100 times, the total length of the filament bundle. Alternatively, the filament bundle can be curved. Specifically, the filament bundle can be substantially U-shaped, C-shaped, or V-shaped.

[0042] Multiple filaments can be surface-treated. Specifically, the multiple filaments may include at least a portion of a surface coating, such as an atomization-enhancing surface coating, a liquid-adhesive surface coating, a liquid-repellent surface coating, or an antimicrobial surface coating. Atomization-enhancing surface coatings advantageously enhance the diversity of the user experience. Liquid-adhesive surface coatings can be beneficial in enhancing the capillary action of the filament bundle. Antimicrobial surface coatings can be used to reduce bacterial contamination. Liquid-repellent coatings, especially at the ends of the filaments, prevent liquid dripping.

[0043] Depending on the available space, the size of the filaments, and the amount of liquid formed by the aerosol to be transported and heated, the filament bundle may include 3 to 100 filaments, especially 10 to 80 filaments, preferably 20 to 60 filaments, more preferably 30 to 50 filaments, such as 40 filaments.

[0044] As yet another example, a liquid conduit may comprise two arrays of filaments that partially intersect each other. Specifically, the liquid conduit may comprise a longitudinal array of filaments arranged side-by-side, and a transverse array of filaments arranged side-by-side and intersecting the longitudinal array, the longitudinal array extending transversely to the length of the longitudinal filaments. The transverse array may extend only along the length of the longitudinal array, such that the liquid conduit includes at least one mesh portion and at least one non-mesh portion. As an example, the longitudinal array of filaments may have a substantially cylindrical shape, particularly a hollow cylindrical shape. As another example, the longitudinal array of filaments may have a substantially conical or substantially truncated conical shape, particularly a substantially hollow conical or substantially hollow truncated conical shape. In any of these configurations, the longitudinal filaments respectively form a cylindrical, conical, truncated conical, hollow cylindrical, hollow conical, or hollow truncated conical shell surface. The length axis of the respective shape extends substantially along the length of the longitudinal filaments. Advantageously, any of the above shapes provides inherent dimensional stability. In any of these configurations, the transverse filament array preferably has a substantially annular shape. That is, the transverse filaments extend circumferentially within the grid portion of the receptor assembly along the longitudinal filament array, which is cylindrical, conical, truncated conical, hollow cylindrical, hollow conical, or hollow truncated conical. Overall, the receptor assembly has a substantially crown-like shape in any of the above configurations. Furthermore, in the cases of conical, truncated conical, hollow conical, or hollow truncated conical shapes, the longitudinal filaments diverge from each other towards the base of the corresponding shape. Therefore, the conical, truncated conical, hollow conical, or hollow truncated conical longitudinal filament array helps to provide a fan-out portion.

[0045] Preferably, the liquid conduit can be inductively heated. Thus, the liquid conduit advantageously performs two functions: conveying and heating the aerosol-forming liquid. Advantageously, this dual function allows for a very material-saving and compact design of the liquid conduit without requiring separate devices for conveying and heating. Furthermore, there is direct thermal contact between the heat source (i.e., the liquid conduit) and the aerosol-forming liquid adhered thereto. Unlike a heater in contact with a saturated wick, the direct contact between the liquid conduit and a small amount of liquid advantageously allows for rapid heating, i.e., allows for rapid initiation of evaporation. In this sense, the liquid conduit can be considered as or includes a liquid transport sensor assembly. As used herein, the term "inductively heated" refers to a liquid conduit comprising a sensor material capable of converting electromagnetic energy into heat when subjected to an alternating magnetic field. Depending on the electrical and magnetic properties of the sensor material, this may be due to at least one of induced hysteresis loss or eddy currents in the sensor material. In ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic sensor materials, hysteresis loss occurs due to the switching of magnetic domains within the material under the influence of an alternating electromagnetic field. Eddy currents are induced in conductive sensor materials. In the case of conductive ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic sensors, heat can be generated due to both eddy currents and hysteresis losses.

[0046] Therefore, the inductively heated liquid conduit may include at least a first sensor material. The first sensor material may include, or may be made of, a material that is conductive and at least one of ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic. That is, the first sensor material may include, or may be made of, one of the following: a ferrimagnetic material, or a ferromagnetic material, or a conductive material, or a conductive ferrimagnetic material, or a conductive ferromagnetic material.

[0047] Additionally, the liquid conduit may include a second sensor material. While the first sensor material can be optimized for heat loss and thus for heating efficiency, the second sensor material can be used as a temperature marker. For this purpose, the second sensor material preferably comprises either a ferrimagnetic or ferromagnetic material. Specifically, the second sensor material can be selected to have a Curie temperature corresponding to a predefined heating temperature. At its Curie temperature, the magnetic properties of the second sensor material change from ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic to paramagnetic, accompanied by a temporary change in its resistance. Therefore, by monitoring the corresponding change in the current absorbed by the sensing source, it is possible to detect when the second sensor material has reached its Curie temperature, and thus when the predefined heating temperature has been reached. Preferably, the first sensor material is different from the second sensor material. The second sensor material preferably has a Curie temperature below 500 degrees Celsius. Specifically, the second receptor material may have a Curie temperature below 350 degrees Celsius, preferably below 300 degrees Celsius, more preferably below 250 degrees Celsius, even more preferably below 200 degrees Celsius, and most preferably below 150 degrees Celsius. Preferably, the Curie temperature is selected such that it is below the boiling point at which the aerosol to be evaporated forms a liquid, in order to prevent the formation of harmful components in the aerosol.

[0048] As an example, the liquid conduit may include multiple first filaments comprising or made of a first receptor material. Additionally, the liquid conduit may include multiple second filaments comprising or made of a second receptor material. Only a number of second filaments are needed for adequate use as a temperature marker. Therefore, the number of first filaments can be greater than the number of second filaments, particularly two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, or ten times greater. Preferably, the diameters of the first and second filaments should be greater than twice the skin depth to induce a sufficient amount of eddy currents upon exposure to an alternating magnetic field, and thus generate a sufficient amount of heat. Skin depth is a measure of the degree of electrical conduction that occurs in a conductive receptor material when induced to heat. Therefore, depending on the materials used and the frequency of the alternating magnetic field, the first and second filaments can have diameters of at least 0.015 mm, at least 0.02 mm, at least 0.025 mm, at least 0.05 mm, at least 0.075 mm, at least 0.1 mm, at least 0.125 mm, at least 0.15 mm, at least 0.2 mm, at least 0.3 mm, or at least 0.4 mm. The second filament can be randomly distributed throughout the liquid conduit. Advantageously, random distribution requires only a small amount of effort during the manufacture of the liquid conduit.

[0049] The multiple first filaments and optional multiple second filaments described above can be used in any of the configurations of the liquid conduit described above, for example, in a filament bundle including at least one parallel bundle portion, in a filament bundle including two soaking sections and an intermediate portion, or in a liquid conduit including two arrays of filaments that partially intersect each other, so as to form at least one mesh portion and at least one non-mesh portion.

[0050] In the case where the liquid conduit is inductively heated, it can be arranged eccentrically about the geometrical central axis of the aerosol-generating article, as further described above. As a result, the liquid conduit can be eccentrically arranged about the axis of symmetry of the alternating magnetic field generated by the induction-heated aerosol-generating device, into which the aerosol-generating article can be inserted for heating the liquid conduit. Advantageously, due to the eccentric arrangement (i.e., asymmetric arrangement), the liquid conduit is positioned in a region of the alternating magnetic field with a higher field density compared to a symmetric central arrangement. Therefore, heating efficiency is improved.

[0051] The aerosol generating article can be a single-use aerosol generating article or a reusable aerosol generating article. In the latter case, the aerosol generating article can be refillable. That is, the main reservoir can be refilled with aerosol-forming liquid. In any configuration, the aerosol generating article may also include at least the aerosol-forming liquid contained in a first compartment. The aerosol-forming liquid may also be contained in at least a portion of a second compartment.

[0052] As used herein, the term "aerosol-forming liquid" refers to a liquid capable of releasing volatile compounds that can form aerosols when heated. Aerosol-forming liquids are intended to be heated. Aerosol-forming liquids may contain both solid and liquid aerosol-forming materials or components. Aerosol-forming liquids may include tobacco-containing materials containing volatile tobacco flavor compounds that are released from the liquid upon heating. Alternatively or additionally, aerosol-forming liquids may include non-tobacco materials. Aerosol-forming liquids may also contain aerosol-forming agents. Examples of suitable aerosol-forming agents are glycerol and propylene glycol. Aerosol-forming liquids may also contain other additives and ingredients, such as nicotine or flavorings. Specifically, aerosol-forming liquids may contain water, solvents, ethanol, plant extracts, and natural or artificial flavorings. Aerosol-forming liquids may be water-based or oil-based.

[0053] To facilitate fluid flow around the bottom-facing end of the partition wall, the end face of the partition wall at the second end of the reservoir body can be rounded, particularly including rounded edges. Specifically, rounded edges facilitate air infiltration into the reservoir to flow around the end of the partition wall. In contrast, sharp edges may act as bubble traps due to the pinning of contact lines.

[0054] According to the present invention, an aerosol generation system is also provided, the aerosol generation system comprising an aerosol generation apparatus and an aerosol generation article according to the present invention and as described herein. The article is configured for use with the aerosol generation apparatus.

[0055] As used herein, the term "aerosol generating device" describes an electrically operated device capable of interacting with at least one aerosol generating article comprising at least one aerosol-forming liquid to generate an aerosol by heating the aerosol-forming liquid within the article. Preferably, the aerosol generating device is a suction device for generating an aerosol that can be directly inhaled by a user through their mouth. Specifically, the aerosol generating device is a handheld aerosol generating device.

[0056] The device may include a receiving cavity for removably receiving at least a portion of the aerosol-generated article.

[0057] Additionally, the aerosol generating apparatus may include an electric heating device. The heating device may be configured to heat the aerosol-forming liquid contained in the article. Specifically, the heating device may be configured to heat the aerosol-forming liquid transported via a liquid conduit from the reservoir to an area outside the buffer reservoir (particularly the evaporation zone as described above).

[0058] The heating device can be a resistance heating device, which includes a resistance heating element for heating the aerosol-forming liquid. The resistance heating element can be, for example, a heating wire or a heating coil. In use, the resistance heating element is arranged to be in thermal contact or thermal proximity to the aerosol-forming liquid to be heated. Specifically, when the aerosol-generating article is housed in an aerosol-generating apparatus, the resistance heating element can be arranged to be in thermal contact or thermal proximity to the liquid conduit, particularly to a portion of the liquid conduit arranged in the evaporation zone of the aerosol-generating article.

[0059] Alternatively, the heating device can be an induction heating device. That is, the aerosol generating device can be an induction heating aerosol generating device. This configuration is particularly preferred when the liquid conduit of the article can be induction heated. Induction heating can also work when the aerosol generating article includes a (separate) sensor element arranged to be in thermal contact or proximity to the liquid conduit, especially to a portion of the liquid conduit arranged in the evaporation zone of the aerosol generating article. The aerosol generating device itself may also include a sensor element, which, when the aerosol generating article is housed within the aerosol generating device, is arranged to be in thermal contact or proximity to the liquid conduit, especially to a portion of the liquid conduit arranged in the evaporation zone of the aerosol generating article. In the latter configuration, that is, when the liquid conduit itself cannot be induction heated, the sensor element can be, for example, a sensor sleeve or sensor coil surrounding the liquid conduit, especially a portion of the liquid conduit arranged in the evaporation zone of the aerosol generating article.

[0060] An induction heating aerosol generating apparatus, particularly an induction heating apparatus, may include at least one induction source configured and arranged to generate an alternating magnetic field in a housing cavity so that, when an article is housed in the aerosol generating apparatus, the induction heating aerosol generates an aerosol in the article to form a liquid.

[0061] To generate an alternating magnetic field, the induction source may include at least one inductor, preferably at least one induction coil arranged around the containment cavity. In cases where the liquid conduit is inductively heated, the induction coil is arranged around the liquid conduit when the article is contained in the containment cavity, particularly around a portion of the liquid conduit in the evaporation zone of the aerosol-generating article.

[0062] At least one induction coil can be a helical coil or a flat planar coil, particularly a disc coil or a curved planar coil. The use of a flat helical coil allows for a robust and inexpensive compact design. The use of a helical induction coil advantageously allows for the generation of a uniform alternating magnetic field. As used herein, "flat helical coil" means a generally planar coil in which the axis of the coil winding is perpendicular to the surface on which the coil is situated. A flat helical induction coil can have any desired shape within the plane of the coil. For example, a flat helical coil can have a circular shape, or it can have a generally oblong or rectangular shape. However, when used herein, the term "flat helical coil" encompasses both planar coils and flat helical coils shaped to conform to curved surfaces. For example, the induction coil can be a "curved" planar coil arranged around the circumference of a preferably cylindrical coil support (e.g., a ferrite core). Furthermore, a flat helical coil can comprise, for example, two four-turn flat helical coil layers or a single four-turn flat helical coil layer. The at least one induction coil can be held within either the body or the housing of the aerosol generating apparatus.

[0063] Aerosol-generating articles can be configured such that, when the article is housed within the containment cavity of an aerosol-generating apparatus, an inductively heated liquid conduit (if present) is arranged off-center about the axis of symmetry of the alternating magnetic field generated by the induction source. As described above, due to the off-center arrangement (i.e., asymmetric arrangement), the liquid conduit is positioned in a region of the alternating magnetic field with a higher field density compared to an arrangement with a central symmetry. Therefore, heating efficiency is improved.

[0064] The induction source may include an alternating current (AC) generator. The AC generator may be powered by a power source from the aerosol generating device. The AC generator is operatively coupled to at least one induction coil. Specifically, the at least one induction coil may be an integral part of the AC generator. The AC generator is configured to generate a high-frequency oscillating current passing through the at least one induction coil to produce an alternating magnetic field. The AC current may be continuously supplied to the at least one induction coil after system activation, or it may be supplied intermittently, such as on a per-port suction basis.

[0065] Preferably, the sensing source includes a DC / AC converter connected to a DC power supply comprising an LC network, wherein the LC network comprises a capacitor and an inductor connected in series.

[0066] The induction source is preferably configured to generate a high-frequency magnetic field. As mentioned herein, the high-frequency magnetic field can be between 500 kHz (kilohertz) and 30 MHz (megahertz), particularly between 5 MHz (megahertz) and 15 MHz (megahertz), and preferably in the range between 5 MHz (megahertz) and 10 MHz (megahertz).

[0067] The aerosol generating apparatus may also include a controller configured, preferably in a closed-loop configuration, to control the operation of the heating process, particularly for controlling the heating of the aerosol-forming liquid to a predetermined operating temperature. The operating temperature for heating the aerosol-forming liquid can be between 100°C and 300°C, particularly in the range of 150°C to 250°C, for example, 230°C. These temperatures are typical operating temperatures for heating but not burning the aerosol-forming matrix.

[0068] The controller may be the overall controller of the aerosol generation device, or a part of the overall controller. The controller may include a microprocessor, such as a programmable microprocessor, microcontroller, or application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or other electronic circuitry capable of providing control. The controller may include additional electronic components, such as at least one DC / AC inverter and / or power amplifier, such as a Class C, Class D, or Class E power amplifier. Specifically, the sensing source may be part of the controller.

[0069] The aerosol generation device may include a power source, particularly a DC power source, configured to provide a DC power supply voltage and a DC power supply current to the induction source. Preferably, the power source is a battery, such as a lithium iron phosphate battery. Alternatively, the power source may be another form of charge storage device, such as a capacitor. The power source may require charging; that is, the power source may be rechargeable. The power source may have a capacity that allows sufficient energy to be stored for one or more user experiences. For example, the power source may have sufficient capacity to allow continuous aerosol generation in time intervals of approximately six minutes or multiples of six minutes. In another example, the power source may have sufficient capacity to allow a predetermined number of suctions or discrete activation of the induction source.

[0070] In the case of an induction heating aerosol generating apparatus, the aerosol generating apparatus may further include a flux concentrator arranged around at least a portion of the induction coil and configured to distort the alternating magnetic field of at least one induction source toward a housing cavity. Therefore, when the article is housed in the housing cavity, the alternating magnetic field is distorted toward an inductively heated liquid conduit (if present). Preferably, the flux concentrator comprises a flux concentrator foil, particularly a multilayer flux concentrator foil.

[0071] Other features and advantages of the aerosol generation system according to the invention have been described in relation to the aerosol generation articles according to the invention, and are therefore equally applicable.

[0072] According to the present invention, a method for manufacturing an aerosol-generating article according to the present invention and as described herein is also provided. The method includes:

[0073] - A hollow cylindrical reservoir body with an extruded end opening, wherein the reservoir body has a fixed cross-sectional profile along the longitudinal axis of the reservoir body;

[0074] - Provide the first end cap and the second end cap; and

[0075] - Attach the first end cap to the first end of the reservoir body and attach the second end cap to the second end of the reservoir body.

[0076] As previously described, the tubular outer wall and inner partition wall can be manufactured as separate parts by extrusion. Subsequently, the extruded inner partition wall can be installed between two opposing internal portions of the extruded tubular outer wall to divide the internal voids of the reservoir body into a first compartment and a second compartment. Alternatively, the reservoir body can be extruded as a single unit. That is, the tubular outer wall and inner partition wall can be extruded together, thus becoming one with each other. Therefore, a hollow cylindrical reservoir body with an open extruded end can result in a one-piece extruded reservoir body.

[0077] Compared to other manufacturing processes, the main advantages of extrusion are its ability to produce very complex cross-sections and to process brittle materials, as the material is subjected to only compressive and shear stresses during the extrusion process. Extrusion also produces parts with extremely high surface finish.

[0078] Generally, extrusion can be continuous or semi-continuous. Semi-continuous extrusion allows for the direct production of many individual small pieces. In contrast, continuous extrusion allows for the production of continuous body profiles, which can then be cut into individual bodies. Thus, a hollow cylindrical reservoir body with extruded end openings can include a hollow cylindrical reservoir body with end openings extruded by continuous extrusion or by semi-continuous extrusion.

[0079] Attaching a first end cap to a first end of the reservoir body and attaching a second end cap to a second end of the reservoir body may include attaching the respective end cap to the respective end of the reservoir body by at least one of form fitting, press fitting, or adhesive bonding. Specifically, attaching the first end cap to the first end of the reservoir body may include clamping, latching, welding, or gluing the first end cap to at least one of the first end of the reservoir body. Similarly, attaching the second end cap to the second end of the reservoir body may include clamping, latching, welding, or gluing the second end cap to at least one of the second end of the reservoir body. Welding may include, in particular, laser welding or ultrasonic welding.

[0080] The method may further include filling the first compartment with an aerosol-forming liquid after at least one of attaching a first end cap to a first end of the reservoir body or attaching a second end cap to a second end of the reservoir body. Preferably, the aerosol-forming liquid may be filled into the first compartment before the other of the first and second end caps is attached to the first and second ends of the reservoir body, respectively.

[0081] The method may further include rounding the end face of the partition wall located at the second end of the reservoir body before attaching the second end cap to the second end of the reservoir body. As further described above, rounding the end face of the partition wall can facilitate fluid flow around the end of the partition wall facing the bottom end cap.

[0082] Other features and advantages of the method according to the invention have been described in relation to the aerosol generating articles and aerosol generating systems according to the invention, and are therefore equally applicable.

[0083] The invention is defined in the claims. However, a non-exhaustive list of non-limiting examples is provided below. Any one or more features of these examples may be combined with any one or more features of another example, embodiment, or aspect described herein.

[0084] Example Ex1: An aerosol generating article for use with an aerosol generating apparatus, the article comprising:

[0085] A tubular, particularly hollow cylindrical, reservoir body with an open end, the reservoir body comprising a tubular outer wall and an inner partition wall, the inner partition wall extending between two opposing internal portions of the tubular outer wall, thereby dividing the internal void of the reservoir body into a first compartment and a second compartment, wherein the first compartment and the second compartment are laterally arranged adjacent to each other along the longitudinal axis of the hollow cylindrical reservoir body;

[0086] A first end cap is attached to a first end of the reservoir body, and the first end cap seals at least the first compartment at the first end of the reservoir body.

[0087] A second end cap is attached to a second end of the reservoir body, the second end cap sealingly closing the first compartment and the second compartment at the second end of the reservoir body, wherein the second end cap includes a fluid passage providing fluid communication between the first compartment and the second compartment.

[0088] Example Ex2: In the aerosol generating article according to Example Ex1, the inner partition wall is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the reservoir body.

[0089] Example Ex3: An aerosol-generating article according to Example Ex2, wherein the reservoir body is an extrusion body, particularly an integral extrusion body.

[0090] Example Ex4: An aerosol generating article according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the arrangement of the inner partition wall within the tubular outer wall is asymmetrical with respect to the cross-section of the reservoir body perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the reservoir body.

[0091] Example Ex5: An aerosol-generating article according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the length of the inner partition wall in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the reservoir body is less than or equal to the length of the tubular outer wall.

[0092] Example Ex6: An aerosol-generated article according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the first end cap includes an outlet providing fluid communication between the second compartment and the outside of the article.

[0093] Example Ex7: The aerosol generating article according to Example Ex6 further includes a filter tip disposed in or attached to the outlet.

[0094] Example Ex8: An aerosol-generated article according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the first end cap is formed as a mouthpiece.

[0095] Example Ex9: An aerosol generating article according to any one of the foregoing examples, wherein the reservoir body is made of plastic, particularly one of PET (polyethylene terephthalate), PP (polypropylene), PE (polyethylene) or PEEK (polyetheretherketone).

[0096] Example Ex10: An aerosol-generated article according to any one of the foregoing examples, wherein at least one of the first end cap and the second end cap is made of one of silicone resin, PET (polyethylene terephthalate), PP (polypropylene), and PE (polyethylene).

[0097] Example Ex11: An aerosol-generated article according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the first end cap is attached to the reservoir body by at least one of shape fit, press fit, or adhesive bonding.

[0098] Example Ex12: An aerosol-generated article according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the second end cap is attached to the reservoir body by at least one of shape fit, press fit, or adhesive bonding.

[0099] Example Ex13: An aerosol-generated article according to any of the foregoing examples, wherein the second end cap includes a recess or channel providing fluid communication between the first compartment and the second compartment.

[0100] Example Ex14: An aerosol-generating article according to any of the foregoing examples, wherein the maximum dimension of the second compartment between two opposing portions of the partition wall and the tubular outer wall is between 0.2 mm and 5 mm, particularly between 0.5 mm and 3 mm, and preferably between 1 mm and 2.5 mm.

[0101] Example Ex15: An aerosol-generated article according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the volume of the first compartment is greater than the volume of the second compartment.

[0102] Example Ex16: An aerosol-generated article according to any of the foregoing examples, wherein the volume of the second compartment is at most 50%, especially at most 40%, preferably at most 30%, and more preferably at most 20% of the volume of the first compartment.

[0103] Example Ex17: An aerosol generating article according to any one of the foregoing examples further includes a bushing arranged transversely to, and in particular perpendicularly to, the longitudinal axis of the reservoir body in the second compartment, wherein the bushing divides the second compartment into an evaporation zone and a buffer reservoir.

[0104] Example Ex18: The aerosol generating article according to Example Ex17 further includes a liquid conduit passing through the bushing for delivering the aerosol generating liquid from the buffer reservoir to the evaporation zone.

[0105] Example Ex19: An aerosol generating article according to Example Ex18, wherein the liquid conduit leads into or faces the evaporation zone.

[0106] Example Ex20: An aerosol-generating article according to any one of Examples Ex18 or Ex19, wherein the liquid conduit includes a wicking element, in particular a bundle of filaments, preferably an untwisted bundle of filaments, or a mesh.

[0107] Example Ex21: An aerosol generating article according to any one of Examples Ex18 to Ex20, wherein the liquid conduit is inductively heated.

[0108] Example Ex22: An aerosol generating article according to any one of Examples Ex18 to Ex21, wherein the liquid conduit includes a liquid delivery sensor assembly.

[0109] Example Ex23: An aerosol-generating article according to any one of Examples Ex18 to Ex22, wherein the buffer reservoir comprises a total volume of up to 60 cubic millimeters, particularly up to 50 cubic millimeters, preferably up to 40 cubic millimeters, more preferably up to 30 cubic millimeters, and most preferably up to 20 cubic millimeters.

[0110] Example Ex24: An aerosol-generating article according to any one of Examples Ex18 to Ex23, wherein the buffer reservoir comprises a total volume of at least 5 cubic millimeters, particularly at least 10 cubic millimeters, and preferably at least 15 cubic millimeters.

[0111] Example Ex25: An aerosol generating article according to any of the foregoing examples, wherein the end face of the partition wall at the second end of the reservoir body is circular.

[0112] Example Ex26: An aerosol generating article according to any of the foregoing examples further includes at least an aerosol forming liquid contained in the first compartment.

[0113] Example Ex27: An aerosol generating article according to any one of the foregoing examples, wherein the reservoir body has a circular, elliptical, oval, triangular, rectangular, square, hexagonal or polygonal external cross-sectional shape.

[0114] Example Ex28: An aerosol-generating article according to any of the foregoing examples, wherein the tubular outer wall has a circular, elliptical, oval, triangular, rectangular, square, hexagonal, or polygonal external cross-sectional shape.

[0115] Example Ex29: An aerosol generation system comprising an aerosol generation apparatus and an aerosol generation article for use with the apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims.

[0116] Example Ex30: A method for manufacturing an aerosol-generated article according to any one of the foregoing examples, comprising:

[0117] - Extruding the tubular, especially open-end hollow cylindrical reservoir body, wherein the reservoir body has a fixed cross-sectional profile along the longitudinal axis of the reservoir body.

[0118] - Provide the first end cap and the second end cap; and

[0119] - Attach the first end cap to the first end of the reservoir body and attach the second end cap to the second end of the reservoir body.

[0120] Example Ex31: According to the method of Example Ex30, attaching the first end cap to the first end of the reservoir body includes attaching the first end cap to the first end of the reservoir body by at least one of form fit, press fit or adhesive bonding.

[0121] Example Ex32: The method according to any one of Examples Ex30 or Ex31, wherein attaching the second end cap to the second end of the reservoir body includes attaching the second end cap to the second end of the reservoir body by at least one of form fit, press fit or adhesive bonding.

[0122] Example Ex33: The method according to any one of Examples Ex30 to Ex32, wherein attaching the first end cap to the first end of the reservoir body includes at least one of clamping, latching, welding or gluing the first end cap to the first end of the reservoir body.

[0123] Example Ex34: The method according to any one of Examples Ex30 to Ex33, wherein attaching the second end cap to the second end of the reservoir body includes at least one of clamping, latching, welding or gluing the second end cap to the second end of the reservoir body.

[0124] Example Ex35: The method according to any one of Examples Ex30 to Ex34 further includes filling the first compartment with an aerosol-forming liquid after at least one of attaching the first end cap to a first end of the reservoir body or attaching the second end cap to a second end of the reservoir body.

[0125] Example Ex36: According to the method of Example Ex35, the aerosol-forming liquid is filled into the first compartment before attaching the other of the first end cap and the second end cap to the first end and the second end cap of the reservoir body, respectively.

[0126] Example Ex37: The method according to any one of Examples Ex30 to Ex36 further includes rounding the end face of the partition wall located at the second end of the reservoir body before attaching the second end cap to the second end of the reservoir body. Attached Figure Description

[0127] The example will now be described further with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0128] Figure 1 A first embodiment of the aerosol-generated article according to the present invention is illustrated schematically;

[0129] Figure 2 Show along the line AA passing through according to Figure 1 The cross-section of the aerosol-generated product;

[0130] Figure 3 Showing BB passing through along the line according to Figure 1 The cross-section of the aerosol-generated product;

[0131] Figure 4 An exemplary embodiment of an aerosol generation system according to the present invention is illustrated schematically, the aerosol generation system comprising, according to Figure 1 Articles thereof and aerosol generating apparatus for use with the articles thereof;

[0132] Figure 5 Showing through according to Figure 1 A cross-section of an alternative implementation scheme for aerosol-generating products;

[0133] Figure 6 The display is similar to Figure 1 The aerosol-generating product shown in the image has no partition wall;

[0134] Figure 7 The display is based on a basically horizontal position. Figure 1 Aerosol-generated products;

[0135] Figure 8 The basis for displaying the inverted position Figure 1 Aerosol-generated products;

[0136] Figure 9 A second embodiment of the aerosol-generating article according to the present invention is schematically shown; and

[0137] Figure 10 The basis for displaying the inverted position Figure 9 Aerosol-generated products. Detailed Implementation

[0138] Figure 1 An aerosol-generating article 40 according to a first embodiment of the present invention is schematically shown. As will be discussed below regarding... Figure 4In further detail, the aerosol generating article 40 is configured for use with an induction-heated aerosol generating apparatus to evaporate the aerosol-forming liquid 50 provided by the aerosol generating article 40. The article 40 includes a generally cylindrical article shell made of a liquid-impermeable rigid material, such as PET (polyethylene terephthalate), PP (polypropylene), or PE (polyethylene). The article shell includes a hollow cylindrical outer tubular wall 42, a first end cap 44, and a second end cap 43. The article also includes a partition wall 41, which, as part of the article shell, divides the internal void of the outer tubular wall 42 into a first compartment 58 and a second compartment 59. The outer tubular wall 42 and the partition wall 41 together form a reservoir body according to the invention. The first compartment 58 and the second compartment 59 are arranged laterally adjacent to each other along the longitudinal axis of the reservoir body. The first compartment 58 serves as a main reservoir 51 for storing the aerosol-forming liquid 50. Within the second compartment 59, the article 40 includes a generally disc-shaped bushing 45 located approximately halfway along the length of the outer tubular wall 42 or the reservoir body. The bushing 45 divides the internal space of the second compartment into two parts: an evaporation chamber 53 and a capillary buffer reservoir 52 for storing the liquid formed by aerosols due to capillary action. This will be described in more detail below. A first end cap 44 seals the reservoir body at a first end 57. At the opposite second end 56, the reservoir body is sealed by a second end cap 43. The second end cap 43 includes a fluid passage that provides fluid communication between the first compartment 58 and the second compartment 59, and thus between the capillary buffer reservoir 52 and the main reservoir 51. The fluid passage is formed by a recess in the second end cap 43. Figure 1 As can be seen, the recess is formed so that the main reservoir 51 opens directly into the capillary buffer reservoir 52, thereby allowing the aerosol-forming liquid 50 to flow freely from the main reservoir 51 into the capillary buffer reservoir 52. To facilitate fluid flow around the free end of the partition wall 41 facing the second end cap 43, the free end of the partition wall 41 includes a rounded edge.

[0139] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As can be seen, it shows that lines AA and BB pass through according to... Figure 1 The cross-section of the aerosol-generated article shows the inner partition wall 41 separated from the tubular outer wall 42. Preferably, the tubular outer wall 42 and the partition wall 41 are manufactured separately by extrusion. Subsequently, the tubular outer wall 42 and the partition wall 41 can be assembled to form the reservoir body according to the invention. Figure 2 and Figure 3As can be further seen, the inner partition wall 41 is installed parallel to the central axis of the tubular outer wall 42 between two opposing inner portions of the tubular outer wall 42, but asymmetrically, thereby dividing the internal void of the reservoir body into a first compartment 58 and a second compartment 59 smaller than the first compartment. In this configuration, the tubular outer wall 42 and the partition wall 41 can be bonded together by an adhesive, for example by welding or gluing. Advantageously, the adhesive bonding provides a seal between the first compartment 58 and the second compartment 59, wherein the partition wall 41 and the tubular outer wall 42 are joined together.

[0140] Alternatively, such as Figure 5 As shown, the inner partition wall 41 and the tubular outer wall 42 can be integrally formed with each other. In this configuration, the tubular outer wall 42 and the partition wall 41 can also be manufactured together by extrusion to form a one-piece extrusion reservoir body. Advantageously, the one-piece extrusion reservoir body is particularly easy to manufacture and inexpensive. Furthermore, the one-piece extrusion reservoir body does not require a seal between the first compartment 58 and the second compartment 59, where the partition wall 41 and the tubular outer wall 42 are joined together.

[0141] Generally, the aerosol generating article 40 can be a single-use aerosol generating article or a reusable aerosol generating article. In the latter case, the aerosol generating article 40 can be refillable. That is, after depletion, the main reservoir 51 can be refilled with aerosol forming liquid 50.

[0142] Article 40 also includes a liquid conduit 70 in fluid communication with the capillary buffer reservoir 52 for conveying the aerosol-forming liquid 50 from the capillary buffer reservoir 52 to the evaporation chamber 53. (As in...) Figure 2 and Figure 3 As can be seen in particular, the liquid conduit 70 according to this embodiment is a non-twisted bundle of filaments 71, 72 arranged parallel to each other. Due to the arrangement of the filaments 71, 72 within the bundle and due to the smaller diameter of the filaments 71, 72, the liquid conduit 70 includes capillary channels formed between the filaments 71, 72. These channels extend along the length of the liquid conduit 70 to provide capillary action, thereby allowing the aerosol-forming liquid 50 to be delivered from the capillary buffer reservoir 52 to the evaporation chamber 53.

[0143] In addition to its liquid transport characteristics, the liquid conduit 70 of this embodiment is also configured for inductive heating. For this purpose, the liquid conduit 70 includes at least a plurality of first filaments 71, which contain a first sensor material optimized for heat generation. The liquid conduit 70 may also include a plurality of second filaments 72, which contain a second sensor material serving as a temperature marker, as further described above. Due to the sensitive properties of the filament material, the liquid conduit 70 is capable of being inductively heated in an alternating magnetic field, and thus evaporates the aerosol in thermal contact with the filaments 71, 72 to form a liquid. The liquid conduit 70 is therefore capable of performing two functions: transporting and heating the aerosol to form a liquid. For this reason, the liquid conduit can also be represented as a liquid transport sensor assembly.

[0144] like Figure 1 As can be seen, the liquid conduit 70 passes through an opening in the bushing 45, such that a first portion of the liquid conduit 70 is arranged in the buffer reservoir 52, and a second portion is arranged in the evaporation chamber 53. The opening through the bushing 45 serves not only as a feed passage for the liquid conduit but also as a means of bundling the filaments 71 and 72, i.e., holding the filaments 71 and 72 together. Furthermore, the opening is used to fix the position of the liquid conduit 70 relative to the product housing. Figure 2 and Figure 3 As can be further seen, the filament bundle of the liquid conduit 70 has a substantially circular cross-section that is particularly easy to manufacture.

[0145] Since the first portion of the liquid conduit 70 is arranged in the buffer reservoir 52 and is therefore immersed in the aerosol-forming liquid 50, the first portion serves as an immersion section 75 for conveying the aerosol-forming liquid 50 from the buffer reservoir 52 to the second portion of the liquid conduit 70. In the evaporation chamber 53, the second portion serves at least partially as a heating section 76 for evaporating the aerosol-forming liquid 50 upon exposure to an alternating magnetic field, thereby inductively heating the filaments 71, 72. This will be discussed below regarding... Figure 4 To describe in more detail.

[0146] like Figure 1As further seen, article 40 includes at least one air inlet 46 that passes through the reservoir body into the evaporation chamber 53, allowing air to enter the evaporation chamber 53. Air inlet 46 may be configured to provide airflow at or around the heating section 76 of the liquid conduit 70. Air inlet 46 may be a hole through the reservoir body. Similarly, air inlet 46 may be a nozzle configured to direct airflow to a specific target location in the liquid conduit 70. Additionally, article 40 includes a conical mouthpiece 47 attached to a first end cap 44 and configured to be inserted into a user's mouth for inhalation. Mouthpiece 47 also includes a filter 55 and an air outlet 48. Mouthpiece 47 is in fluid communication with the evaporation chamber 53 through an outlet 49 in the first end cap 44. Therefore, when a user inhales through mouthpiece 47, air is drawn into the evaporation chamber 53 through air inlet 46. From there, air passes through the orifice 49 into the mouthpiece 47, and further through the filter 55 and air outlet 48 into the user's mouth. In the evaporation chamber 53, the aerosol formed by the evaporation from the heated section 76 of the liquid conduit 70 is exposed to the air passing through the article 40, thereby forming an aerosol that can then be drawn out through the mouthpiece 47.

[0147] Figure 4 An aerosol generation system 80 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is schematically illustrated. System 80 includes, as shown in the diagram... Figures 1 to 3 The aerosol generating article 40 is shown, along with an electrically operated aerosol generating apparatus 60 capable of interacting with the article 40 to generate an aerosol. For this purpose, the aerosol generating apparatus 60 includes a receiving cavity 62 formed within an apparatus housing 61 at a proximal end of the apparatus 60. The receiving cavity 62 is configured to removably receive at least a portion of the aerosol generating article 40. Specifically, the aerosol generating apparatus is configured to inductively heat a heating section 76 of a liquid conduit 70 to evaporate an aerosol-forming liquid 50, which is delivered from a capillary buffer reservoir 52 to the heating section 76 in the evaporation cavity 53 via an immersion section 75. For this purpose, the aerosol generating apparatus 60 includes an induction source comprising an induction coil 32. In this embodiment, the induction coil 32 is a single-helix coil arranged and configured to generate a substantially uniform alternating magnetic field within the receiving cavity 62. Figure 4As can be seen, the induction coil 32 is arranged in the proximal end portion of the receiving cavity 62 so that it surrounds only the heating section 76 of the liquid conduit 70 when the aerosol-forming article 40 is received in the receiving cavity 62. Therefore, in use of the device 60, the induction coil 32 generates an alternating magnetic field that penetrates only the heating section 76 of the liquid conduit 70 in the evaporation cavity 53 of the article 40. Conversely, due to localized heating, the immersion section 75 of the liquid conduit 70 is maintained at a temperature below the evaporation temperature. This prevents the aerosol-forming liquid 50 within the capillary buffer reservoir 52 and the main reservoir 51 from boiling. Therefore, in use, the liquid conduit 70 includes a temperature distribution with higher and lower temperature sections extending along its length. More specifically, the temperature distribution exhibits a temperature increase from a temperature below the evaporation temperature T_vap of the aerosol-forming liquid 50 in the immersion section 75 to a temperature above the corresponding evaporation temperature in the heating section 76.

[0148] The actual temperature distribution formed during the use of the sensor assembly 10 depends on the thermal conductivity and length of the liquid conduit 70. Therefore, in order to have a sufficient temperature gradient between the immersion section 75 and the heating section 76, the liquid conduit 70 requires a certain total length. In this embodiment, the total length of the liquid conduit 70 can be between 5 mm and 50 mm, particularly between 10 mm and 40 mm, preferably between 10 mm and 30 mm, and more preferably between 10 mm and 20 mm.

[0149] The liquid conduit 70 is eccentrically arranged about the geometric center axis of the aerosol-generating article 40. As a result, when the article 40 is housed within the cavity 62 of the device 60, the liquid conduit 70 is eccentrically arranged about the axis of symmetry of the alternating magnetic field generated by the induction coil 32. Advantageously, due to this eccentric arrangement, the liquid conduit 70 is positioned in a region of the alternating magnetic field with a higher field density compared to a symmetry-centered arrangement. Therefore, heating efficiency is improved.

[0150] The aerosol generating device 60 also includes a controller 64 for controlling the operation of the aerosol generating system 80, particularly for controlling heating operations. Furthermore, the aerosol generating device 60 includes a power source 63 that provides electricity for generating an alternating magnetic field. Preferably, the power source 63 is a battery, such as a lithium iron phosphate battery. The power source 63 may have a capacity that allows sufficient energy to be stored for one or more user experiences. Both the controller 64 and the power source 63 are arranged in the distal portion of the aerosol generating device 60.

[0151] Now refer to Figure 6 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 The function of capillary buffer 52 is described in more detail. Figure 6 Display according to Figure 1 Aerosol-generating products 40, excluding capillary buffer reservoirs. Further related to... Figure 1 contrast, Figure 6 The article 40 is shown in a substantially horizontal orientation. Due to the different orientation, the aerosol-forming liquid 50 in the article 40 is redistributed in such a way—depending on the liquid level—that the liquid conduit 70 is no longer in contact with the aerosol-forming liquid 50. Therefore, the delivery of the aerosol-forming liquid to the evaporation zone 53 is interrupted, which, if the article is used in this orientation for a period of time, leads to a rapid reduction or even interruption of aerosol formation. The purpose of the buffer reservoir 52 is to remedy this. Essentially, the buffer reservoir 52 provides a small-volume reservoir in fluid communication with the main reservoir 51 and the liquid conduit 70, and is configured to trap a certain amount of aerosol-forming liquid due to capillary action independent of the article orientation. For this purpose, at least one dimension of the capillary buffer reservoir 52 is chosen to be approximately the same as the effective capillary length, which is typically in the range of a few millimeters for most liquids. In this embodiment, the capillary action of the buffer reservoir 52 is caused by the fact that the maximum distance D between the opposing portions of the partition wall 41 and the inner surface of the tubular outer wall 42 is only in the range of a few millimeters, as... Figure 3 and Figure 7 As shown. For example, the maximum distance D can be in the range of 1 mm to 5 mm. Due to this, in the capillary buffer reservoir 52, the capillary effect exceeds gravity. Therefore, once the aerosol forming liquid 50 has been filled in the buffer reservoir 52, when the orientation of the article changes, for example when the article 40 is removed from the container, the capillary effect exceeds gravity. Figure 1 The basically vertical position shown in the image becomes as follows Figure 7 The position shown in the image is basically horizontal, or even becomes like... Figure 8 When the inverted position is shown, it prevents the aerosol-forming liquid from flowing back into the main reservoir 51. Therefore, independent of the article orientation, the buffer reservoir 40 reliably traps liquid aerosol formation due to the capillary action of its small volume, similar to the buffer reservoir of a fountain pen. However, the capillary action along the liquid conduit is still large enough to transport the trapped liquid from the capillary buffer reservoir 52 to the evaporation zone. The volume of the buffer reservoir is selected to provide sufficient liquid for several pumping operations, regardless of the article orientation. Therefore, the total volume of the capillary buffer reservoir 52 can be at least 5 cubic millimeters, especially at least 10 cubic millimeters, and preferably at least 15 cubic millimeters.

[0152] Figure 9 and Figure 10 A second exemplary embodiment of the aerosol generation of 240 articles according to the present invention is illustrated schematically. Generally, according to Figures 9 to 10 Aerosol-generating products 240 are similar to Figure 1The aerosol-generating article 40 shown in the figure. Therefore, the same or similar features are indicated by the same reference numerals, except that they are incremented by 200. Figure 1 Compared to the 40 products shown in the document, according to Figure 9 and Figure 10 The article 240 includes a liquid conduit 270, a buffer reservoir 252, and an evaporation zone 253 arranged symmetrically about a geometric central axis of 40. For this purpose, a cylindrical partition wall 241 is coaxially arranged within a cylindrical tubular outer wall 242 to divide the internal void of the cylindrical tubular outer wall 242 into a hollow cylindrical first compartment 258 and a cylindrical second compartment 259 coaxially surrounded by the first compartment 258. The first compartment 258 forms the hollow cylindrical main reservoir 251, while the second compartment 259 forms the cylindrical evaporation zone 253. A first end cap 244 is attached to a first end of the reservoir body, including the partition wall 241 and the tubular outer wall 242. The first end cap 244 sealably closes the first compartment 258 at the first end of the reservoir body. At the opposite end, the reservoir body is closed by a second end cap 243, which includes components similar to... Figure 1 The recess of the bottom end cap 43 of the article 40 shown is illustrated. At the bottom portion, the evaporation chamber 253 is closed by a disc-shaped bushing 245. Here, a capillary buffer reservoir 252 is formed between the inner surface of the second end cap 243 on one side and the end faces of the cylindrical partition wall 241 and the disc-shaped bushing 245 on the other side. That is, the capillary buffer reservoir 252 is essentially formed by a portion of the recessed fluid channel in the second end cap 243. The distance D between the inner surface of the bottom end cap 243 and the end faces of the cylindrical partition wall 241 and the disc-shaped bushing 245 is chosen to be the same as the effective capillary length, for example, in the range of 1 mm to 5 mm. Due to this, once filled with aerosol-formed liquid, even when the orientation of the article 240 changes, for example, when the article 40 is removed from a container... Figure 9 The basically vertical position shown in the image becomes as follows Figure 10 In the inverted position shown, the buffer reservoir 252 also traps a certain amount of aerosol-forming liquid due to capillary action. Therefore, the immersion section 275 of the liquid conduit 270 is always in contact with the aerosol-forming liquid, regardless of the article's position. The volume of the capillary buffer reservoir 252 is selected such that the amount of aerosol-forming liquid that can be trapped is sufficient for at least several aspirations.

[0153] In this embodiment, the cylindrical partition wall 241 and the tubular outer wall 242 are separate parts that can be manufactured by extrusion. A first end cap 243 and a second end cap 244 can be used to hold the partition wall 241 and the tubular outer wall 242 together.

[0154] For the purposes of this specification and the appended claims, unless otherwise indicated, 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 therein, which may or may not be specifically listed herein. Thus, in this context, the number A shall be understood as A ± 5%. Within this context, the number A may be considered as a value included within the general standard error of the measurement of the characteristic modified by the number A. In some instances as used in the appended claims, the number A may deviate from the percentages listed above, provided that the amount of deviation from A does not significantly affect the fundamental and novel features of the claimed invention. Furthermore, all ranges include the disclosed maximum and minimum points, and include any intermediate ranges therein, which may or may not be specifically listed herein.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating article for use with an aerosol generating apparatus, the article comprising: A hollow cylindrical reservoir body with an open end, the hollow cylindrical reservoir body with an open end includes a tubular outer wall and an inner partition wall, the inner partition wall extending between two opposing internal portions of the tubular outer wall, thereby dividing the internal void of the reservoir body into a first compartment and a second compartment, wherein the first compartment and the second compartment are laterally arranged adjacent to each other along the longitudinal axis of the hollow cylindrical reservoir body; A first end cap is attached to a first end of the reservoir body, and the first end cap seals at least the first compartment at the first end of the reservoir body. A second end cap is attached to a second end of the reservoir body, the second end cap sealingly closing the first compartment and the second compartment at the second end of the reservoir body, wherein the second end cap includes a fluid passage providing fluid communication between the first compartment and the second compartment.

2. The aerosol generating article according to claim 1, wherein the reservoir body is an extrusion body.

3. The aerosol generating article according to claim 1, wherein the reservoir body is an integral extrusion body.

4. The aerosol generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the arrangement of the inner partition wall within the tubular outer wall is asymmetrical with respect to the cross-section of the reservoir body perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the reservoir body.

5. The aerosol-generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the first end cap includes an outlet providing fluid communication between the second compartment and the outside of the article.

6. The aerosol generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the first end cap is formed as a mouthpiece.

7. The aerosol generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the first end cap and the second end cap are attached to the reservoir body by at least one of form fit, press fit or adhesive bonding.

8. The aerosol-generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the second end cap includes a recess or channel providing fluid communication between the first compartment and the second compartment.

9. The aerosol-generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the maximum dimension of the second compartment between two opposing portions of the partition wall and the tubular outer wall is in the range of 0.2 mm to 5 mm.

10. The aerosol-generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the maximum dimension of the second compartment between two opposing portions of the partition wall and the tubular outer wall is in the range of 0.5 mm to 3 mm.

11. The aerosol generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the maximum dimension of the second compartment between two opposing portions of the partition wall and the tubular outer wall is in the range of 1 mm to 2.5 mm.

12. The aerosol generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the volume of the second compartment is at most 50% of the volume of the first compartment.

13. The aerosol generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the volume of the second compartment is at most 40% of the volume of the first compartment.

14. The aerosol generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the volume of the second compartment is at most 30% of the volume of the first compartment.

15. The aerosol generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the volume of the second compartment is at most 20% of the volume of the first compartment.

16. The aerosol generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising a bushing arranged transversely to the longitudinal axis of the reservoir body in the second compartment, wherein the bushing divides the second compartment into an evaporation zone and a buffer reservoir.

17. The aerosol generating article according to claim 16, wherein the bushing is arranged in the second compartment perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the reservoir body.

18. The aerosol generating article of claim 16, further comprising a liquid conduit passing through the bushing for delivering the aerosol generating liquid from the buffer reservoir to the evaporation zone.

19. The aerosol generating article according to claim 18, wherein the liquid conduit is inductively heated.

20. An aerosol generation system comprising an aerosol generation apparatus and an aerosol generation article according to any one of the preceding claims, the article being used in conjunction with the apparatus.

21. A method for manufacturing an aerosol-generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 19, comprising: - A hollow cylindrical reservoir body with an extruded end opening, wherein the reservoir body has a fixed cross-sectional profile along the longitudinal axis of the reservoir body; - Provide the first end cap and the second end cap; as well as - Attach the first end cap to the first end of the reservoir body and attach the second end cap to the second end of the reservoir body.

22. The method of claim 21, further comprising filling the first compartment with an aerosol-forming liquid after at least one of attaching the first end cap to a first end of the reservoir body or attaching the second end cap to a second end of the reservoir body.

Images