An aerosol-generating article comprising a liquid reservoir and a convertible sealing member

Abstract

The present invention relates to an aerosol-generating article for use with an aerosol-generating device. The article comprises a liquid reservoir for storing an aerosol-forming liquid. The liquid reservoir comprises a reservoir outlet. The article further comprises a sealing member reversibly switchable between an open configuration and a closed configuration to respectively open or sealingly close the reservoir outlet. In addition, the article comprises an actuator member operatively coupled to the sealing member for switching the sealing member at least from the closed configuration to the open configuration. The present disclosure also relates to an aerosol-generating system comprising such an article.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to an aerosol generating article for use with an aerosol generating apparatus, wherein the article includes a liquid reservoir for storing an aerosol-forming liquid. This disclosure also relates to an aerosol generating system including such an article. Background Technology

[0002] Generating inhalable aerosols by heating an aerosol-forming liquid is known in the 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. To ensure that the quality of the aerosol-forming liquid remains acceptable until consumption under the intended dispensing and storage conditions, the reservoir can be sealed, for example, by a perforated diaphragm. However, once opened, the seal cannot be properly re-closed. This can shorten the shelf life of the aerosol-generating article, especially after opening.

[0003] Therefore, it is desirable to have an aerosol generating article for storing aerosol-forming liquids, which has the advantages of existing technical solutions while mitigating their limitations. Specifically, it is desirable to have an aerosol generating article for storing aerosol-forming liquids that has an improved storage life, especially an improved lifespan after opening. Summary of the Invention

[0004] According to one aspect of the invention, an aerosol generating article is provided for use with an aerosol generating apparatus. The article includes a liquid reservoir for storing an aerosol-forming liquid. The liquid reservoir includes a reservoir outlet. The article further includes a sealing member reversibly switchable between an open configuration and a closed configuration to open or seal the reservoir outlet, respectively. Additionally, the article includes an actuator member operatively coupled to the sealing member for converting the sealing member at least from the closed configuration to the open configuration.

[0005] According to the present invention, it has been found that the shelf life of aerosol-generated articles can be significantly improved by a sealing member that is convertible to reversibly open and close the reservoir outlet. Specifically, once opened, the reservoir outlet can be reliably closed again. As a result, the shelf life before consumption and the service life after the start of consumption can be extended. Thus, articles that have been partially consumed can be easily retained in or removed from the aerosol-generating apparatus and stored for subsequent consumption without any residual aerosol-forming liquid leaking from the reservoir, being altered, or being contaminated until subsequent consumption.

[0006] As used herein, the term "convertible seal" can include either a seal that displaces between a closed configuration and an open configuration, or a seal that deforms between a closed configuration and an open configuration, in which the seal seals to seal the reservoir outlet, and in which the seal seals to purge the reservoir outlet, in which the seal seals to purge the reservoir outlet, in which the seal seals to purge the reservoir outlet, in which the seal seals to seal the reservoir outlet, in which the seal seals to purge ...

[0007] Operating the actuator component operatively to the sealing component for converting the sealing component at least from a closed configuration to an open configuration advantageously makes it easy to prepare the article for consumption, especially when the article is inserted into an aerosol generating device configured for use with the article. Therefore, the actuator component can be configured to convert the sealing component at least from a closed configuration to an open configuration in response to the insertion of the article into the aerosol generating device.

[0008] Preferably, the actuator component is also configured to switch the sealing component from an open configuration to a closed configuration. Advantageously, this facilitates closing the reservoir when it is opened, such as when consumption of the article temporarily ceases or when the article is temporarily removed from the aerosol generating device. Specifically, the actuator component may be configured to switch the sealing component from an open configuration to a closed configuration in response to removal of the article from the aerosol generating device.

[0009] According to one aspect of the invention, the actuator component may be a thermally driven actuator component. A thermally driven actuator may be any actuator component that undergoes at least one of mechanical displacement or deformation under the influence of temperature changes, said mechanical displacement or deformation being adapted to change the sealing component at least from a closed configuration to an open configuration. The temperature change may be the extraction of heat energy from the thermally driven actuator component or the supply of heat energy to the thermally driven actuator component.

[0010] When an article is contained in an aerosol generating apparatus, the thermal energy required to convert the mechanical displacement or deformation of the sealing member can originate from the heating process used to heat the aerosol-forming liquid. For this purpose, a thermally driven actuator can be arranged in thermal contact or proximity to a heating element used to heat the aerosol-forming liquid when the article is contained in the aerosol generating apparatus. That is, when heated, for example during the preheating of the aerosol-forming liquid, the thermally driven actuator can bend or expand in one direction to change the sealing member from a closed configuration to an open configuration. Conversely, when cooled again towards its initial temperature, the thermally driven actuator can bend or retract to change the sealing member from an open configuration to a closed configuration.

[0011] The aerosol generating apparatus may also include a heating device for actuating a thermally driven actuator component, the aerosol generating article being configured for use with the aerosol generating apparatus. The heating device for actuating the thermally driven actuator component may be separate from the heating device for the aerosol generating apparatus used for evaporating the aerosol-forming liquid. Advantageously, a separate heating device allows for selective opening and closing of the reservoir outlet, particularly independently of the evaporation process. Heating of the actuator component may be initiated in response to at least one of the following: user input, the start of a heating operation for heating the aerosol-forming liquid, or insertion of the article into the aerosol generating apparatus. Similarly, the aerosol generating apparatus may include a shared heating device for actuating the thermally driven actuator component and for evaporating the aerosol-forming liquid. Advantageously, the shared heating device allows for opening and closing of the reservoir outlet when the evaporation process is started and stopped. For example, the heating device, particularly a separate heating device, may include a resistance heating element arranged to be in thermal contact or proximity to the thermally driven actuator component when the article is contained in the aerosol generating apparatus. Similarly, particularly in cases where the thermally driven actuator component is inductively heatable, the heating device may include an induction source comprising at least one induction coil for generating an alternating magnetic field at the location of the thermally driven actuator component when the article of work is contained in the aerosol generating apparatus, so as to heat the thermally driven actuator component by induction heating. As used in this context, the term "inductively heatable actuator component" refers to a thermally driven actuator component containing 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 losses or eddy currents in the sensor material. The at least one induction coil may 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 induction source may be a shared induction source configured to simultaneously inductively heat the thermally driven actuator component and the aerosol-forming liquid using the same alternating magnetic field. Similarly, the induction source used to actuate the thermally driven actuator components can be separated from the heating device of the aerosol generating apparatus used to evaporate aerosols to form liquids.

[0012] As an example, a thermally driven actuator component may comprise a bimetallic material. A bimetallic material is defined as an object composed of two or more separate metals bonded together, which translates temperature changes into at least one mechanical displacement or deformation. As used herein, the term "bimetallic" refers not only to an object composed of two separate metals, but also to an object composed of three, four, or more separate metals—that is, trimetallic, tetrametallic, or generally any multimetallic material. For example, a bimetallic material may comprise different types of stainless steel, such as austenitic and ferritic stainless steel. A bimetallic material may also comprise a combination of other different types of metals, such as stainless steel with tungsten. A thermally driven actuator component may, for example, be a bimetallic strip operatively coupled to a sealing member for converting the sealing member at least from a closed configuration to an open position. The strip may comprise two strips of different metals that expand at different rates when heated, i.e., the strips have different coefficients of thermal expansion. The different expansion forces the strips to bend in one direction when heated and backward in the opposite direction when cooled. Metals with a higher coefficient of thermal expansion lie on the outside of the curve when the strip is heated and on the inside of the curve when the strip is cooled. The bending of the strip causes displacement, which in turn can cause a change in the sealing member connected to the strip. That is, when heated, for example during preheating of an aerosol-forming liquid, the strip can bend in one direction to change the sealing member from a closed configuration to an open configuration. Conversely, when cooled again towards its initial temperature, the strip can bend back to change the sealing member from an open configuration to a closed configuration.

[0013] It is also possible that the thermally driven actuator component may comprise a multilayer component consisting of two or more separate layers of different materials, particularly comprising bonded metals and non-metals, and the multilayer component translating temperature changes into at least one mechanical displacement or deformation. For example, the multilayer component may comprise a metal layer and a plastic layer, or a metal layer and a ceramic layer. The plastic layer may comprise or be made of, for example, parylene or silicone resin. Advantageously, the plastic layer may form a sealing component.

[0014] As another example, thermally driven actuator components may incorporate shape memory materials. Shape memory materials are materials, especially alloys, that can deform upon cooling but return to their pre-deformed (“remembered”) shape upon heating. The shape memory effect arises because a temperature-induced phase transition reverses the deformation. Phase transitions typically occur at a predefined temperature (i.e., the so-called switching temperature). Shape memory materials can be unidirectional or bidirectional. A unidirectional shape memory material is one that can be bent or stretched when in its cooled state and will retain those shapes until above the transition temperature. Upon heating, the shape returns to its original shape. When the material cools again, it retains that shape until it deforms again. A bidirectional shape memory material is one that remembers two different shapes: the shape at a low temperature and the shape at a high temperature. Materials exhibiting a shape memory effect during both heating and cooling are said to have bidirectional shape memory. This can also be achieved without applying external forces (an intrinsic bidirectional effect). Similar to the case of bimetals, the phase transition of shape memory materials is accompanied by at least one of displacement or deformation, which can be used to switch the sealing member between a closed configuration and an open configuration.

[0015] Generally, shape memory materials can be designed to have a predefined switching temperature at which a phase change occurs. Preferably, the switching temperature is selected to be significantly higher than room temperature (20 degrees Celsius) or higher, for example, above 50 degrees Celsius. For example, if an aerosol-generating article is left in a car exposed to direct sunlight, even higher temperatures, such as up to 50 degrees Celsius, may occur. Advantageously, this ensures that the shape memory material is in the first phase of the two phases at the temperature at which the article is typically transported or stored (i.e., below the operating temperature at which the aerosol-forming liquid in the article evaporates). Therefore, this first phase is preferably used to switch and maintain the sealing member in a closed configuration to ensure proper sealing of the reservoir outlet for the temperature at which the article is typically transported or stored. Conversely, the switching temperature should be selected to be below the operating temperature of the shape memory material during the evaporation of the aerosol-forming liquid in the use of the article. This ensures that the shape memory material is in the second phase of the two phases before reaching its operating temperature in the use of the article. Therefore, the second phase is preferably used to switch and maintain the sealing member in an open configuration to ensure unobstructed access to the reservoir outlet, allowing the aerosol-forming liquid in the area outside the reservoir to evaporate. However, the switching temperature should be selected only slightly above the operating temperature of the shape memory material in use. This reduces the shut-off time required to switch the sealing member to a closed configuration after the product is consumed, especially after the evaporation of the aerosol-forming liquid has ceased. Advantageously, a shorter shut-off time reduces the risk of unwanted leakage and contamination of the aerosol-forming liquid still present in the reservoir. Therefore, the switching temperature can be 5°C, 10°C, or 20°C lower than the operating temperature of the shape memory material in use. In any case, the switching temperature should be selected sufficiently below the boiling temperature of the aerosol-forming liquid stored in the product to avoid unwanted boiling of the aerosol-forming liquid in the reservoir. In absolute terms, the switching temperature of the shape memory material can be in the range of 80°C to 240°C, or between 80°C and 120°C.

[0016] Shape memory materials can be austenitic titanium alloys, especially austenitic nickel-titanium alloys or nickel-titanium-hafnium alloys. Nickel-titanium alloys transform from austenite to martensite upon cooling. Advantageously, the transformation from martensitic to austenitic phase depends only on temperature and stress, not on time.

[0017] For example, a thermally driven actuator component may include at least one temperature-actuated spring comprising or made of a shape memory material. The spring may be configured to extend when heated and contract when cooled again. Conversely, the spring may also be configured to contract when heated and extend when cooled again. The temperature-actuated spring may be coupled to a sealing member to apply a force to the sealing member at least in the closing direction, for example, due to the temperature-actuated spring extending when heated or cooled. Additionally, the temperature-actuated spring may be coupled to, and particularly attached to, the sealing member to, apply a force to the sealing member also in the opening direction.

[0018] At least one temperature-actuated spring may comprise at least one of a cylindrical helical spring (coil spring), a conical helical spring (conical-coil spring), a disc spring, or a star spring. A disc spring may have a conical or arcuate housing that can be statically or dynamically loaded along its axis. Temperature-actuated springs may comprise a stack of individual disc or star springs to adjust the spring constant or deflection. Stacking in the same direction will increase the spring constant in parallel, thus forming a harder contact with the same deflection. Stacking in alternating directions produces a lower spring constant and a larger deflection. Mixed and matched directions allow for the design of specific spring constants and deflection capabilities.

[0019] According to another aspect of the invention, the actuator component can be a magnetically driven actuator component. Generally, the magnetically driven actuator component can be part of a magnetic actuator that uses magnetic effects to generate forces influencing the movement of the magnetically driven actuator component. The magnetic actuator is preferably based on long-distance acting magnetic forces, namely Laplace-Lorentz forces and magnetic resistance. Magnetic actuators can be classified into different categories, two of which are particularly suitable for converting sealing components of aerosol-generating articles from at least a closed configuration to an open configuration: movable magnetic actuators and movable iron actuators.

[0020] A movable magnetic actuator may include a movable permanent magnet and a fixed magnetic coil, the movable permanent magnet and the fixed magnetic coil being arranged such that a current in the magnetic coil generates a pair of equal and opposing forces between the magnet and the magnetic coil, the forces causing the magnet to displace. Similarly, a magnetic actuator may include a movable permanent magnet and a fixed permanent magnet or a fixed magnetic material, the fixed permanent magnet or fixed magnetic material causing the movable permanent magnet to displace when the movable permanent magnet approaches the fixed permanent magnet or fixed magnetic material. Therefore, a magnetically driven actuator component—as part of a movable magnetic actuator—may include a permanent magnet that can be moved at least from a first position to a second position by interacting with the magnetic coil, permanent magnet, or magnetic material of the aerosol generating device, thereby changing the sealing member at least from a closed configuration to an open configuration.

[0021] When the ferromagnetic actuator is moved, a movable ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic component, especially a soft magnetic component, is placed in the field of a magnetic coil or permanent magnet. Driven by an effort to minimize the magnetic energy of the entire system, the movable ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic component is displaced due to magnetic resistance. Therefore, the magnetically driven actuator component—as part of the movable ferromagnetic actuator—may include a ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic component, especially a soft magnetic component, which can be moved from at least a first position to a second position by interaction with the magnetic coil or permanent magnet of the aerosol generating device, thereby changing the sealing component from at least a closed configuration to an open configuration.

[0022] According to another aspect of the invention, the actuator member can be a mechanically contact-driven actuator member configured and arranged to mechanically interact with the aerosol generating device when inserted into the aerosol generating device, such that the actuator member changes from a first configuration to a second configuration, thereby changing the sealing member from a closed configuration to an open configuration. The conversion of the mechanically contact-driven actuator from the first configuration to the second configuration can be caused by displacement of the aerosol-generating article relative to the aerosol generating device when the article is inserted into the device. That is, the conversion of the mechanically contact-driven actuator from the first configuration to the second configuration can be induced by movement of the article during insertion into the device. As an example, the mechanically contact-driven actuator member can be a movable piston configured and arranged to mechanically interact with, in particular, abut or engage with, an abutment member, in particular a pusher or holder of the aerosol generating device, when the article is inserted into the aerosol generating device. Due to the interaction with the clamp or adjacent member, the piston changes from the first configuration to the second configuration at least when the article has reached its predefined position in the device.

[0023] As another example, the mechanically contact-driven actuator component can be a flexible wall component of an aerosol-generating article. For example, the flexible wall component can be an end portion of the article, particularly the bottom portion. The flexible wall component can be made of an elastic material, such as silicone. The flexible wall component can be configured to interact with a actuator (such as a piston) of the aerosol-generating device when the article is inserted into the device, causing the flexible wall component to deform toward the interior of the article. For example, the actuator can be a piston-like protrusion at the bottom of a cavity in the device into which the article can be inserted for use with the device. Thus, when the article is inserted into the device, the flexible actuator component can contact the protrusion, causing the flexible wall component to deform toward the interior of the article. Thus, at least when the article has reached its predefined position in the device, the flexible wall component transforms from a first configuration (undeformed configuration) to a second configuration (deformed configuration). This transformation can be used to convert a sealing component from at least a closed configuration to an open configuration. For example, the sealing component can be a flexible tube made of an elastic membrane material. The flexible tube may include multiple slits extending along the tube axis through the tube wall. A slit-walled tubular sealing member can be arranged within the article such that it is compressed and bulges outward due to the inward deformation of the flexible wall member toward the article. Due to this bulging, the slit through the tube wall of the sealing member can open, allowing aerosol-forming liquid to enter the interior of the tubular sealing member and thus communicate fluidly with the reservoir outlet. When the article is removed from the cavity, the flexible actuator member can return to its flat (undeformed) configuration due to its elastic properties. Similarly, due to the elastic properties of the tubular sealing member, and possibly because the flexible actuator member straightens the tubular sealing member when the actuator member returns to its flat configuration, the tubular sealing member can return to its extended (non-bulging) configuration. In the extended (non-bulging) configuration of the sealing member, the slit through the tube wall of the sealing member is sealed shut, causing the tubular sealing member to seal the reservoir outlet.

[0024] Similarly, the aerosol generating device may include a mechanical actuator configured and arranged to mechanically interact with a mechanically contact-driven actuator member for converting the actuator member from a first configuration to a second configuration. The mechanical actuator of the device may be a movable actuator or a movable holder. Movement of the movable actuator or movable holder can be manually actuated by a user. Likewise, movement of the movable actuator or movable holder can be actuated by an electrically driven actuator or a magnetically driven actuator.

[0025] To facilitate the conversion of the sealing member from an open to a closed configuration, the aerosol-generating article may also include a return mechanism arranged and configured to convert the sealing member from an open to a closed configuration. Specifically, the return mechanism may include at least one return spring. Alternatively or additionally, the return mechanism may be implemented at least in part by a sealing member comprising or made of an elastic material. Like the return spring, the elasticity of the sealing member may be configured to act in the closing direction to convert the sealing member from an open to a closed configuration. Preferably, the return mechanism is configured to apply a sealing force acting in the closing direction to the sealing member when it is (already) in the closed configuration. Advantageously, the sealing force enhances the sealing closure of the reservoir outlet.

[0026] Generally, the actuating member and the sealing member can be in physical contact with each other, at least during the transition of the sealing member from a closed configuration to an open configuration. If the actuator member is configured to transition the sealing member from an open configuration to a closed configuration, the actuator member and the sealing member can also be in physical contact with each other during the transition of the sealing member from an open configuration to a closed configuration.

[0027] Similarly, at least during the transition of the sealing member from an open configuration to a closed configuration, the return mechanism and the sealing member can be in physical contact with each other. Additionally, during the transition of the sealing member from a closed configuration to an open configuration, the return mechanism and the sealing member can be in physical contact with each other.

[0028] As used in this context, physical contact can be at least one of the following: abutting, engaging, or attaching to each other. Specifically, the actuator component and the sealing component can be attached to each other by at least one of morphological mating, force mating, or adhesive bonding. With respect to the actuator component and the sealing component, morphological mating can function only in the opening direction, or in both the opening and closing directions. For example, the actuator component and the sealing component can be glued together, pressed together, or screwed together. Similarly, the actuator component and the sealing component can be overmolded from plastic. With respect to the return mechanism and the sealing component, morphological mating can function only in the closing direction, or in both the opening and closing directions. For example, the return mechanism and the sealing component can be glued together, pressed together, or screwed together.

[0029] The actuator component and the sealing component can be integrally formed with each other. For example, an aerosol-generating article may include a sealing body made of a magnetic material, which is configured to seal and close the reservoir outlet. Due to the magnetic material, the sealing body can be actuated by a magnetic coil or permanent magnet of the aerosol-generating device when the article is inserted therein. Therefore, the sealing body is both an actuator component and a sealing component.

[0030] Generally, sealing components can have any shape, configuration, and arrangement suitable for sealingly closing the reservoir outlet.

[0031] Preferably, the sealing member comprises or is made of an elastic material, particularly rubber. Advantageously, the elastic material has inherent sealing properties because it can adapt itself to the structure of the sealing seat and additionally provides a tight seal due to its elastic nature.

[0032] Generally, the sealing element can be arranged inside or outside the reservoir. That is, the sealing element can be arranged and configured to seal the reservoir outlet from the outside or the inside of the reservoir.

[0033] The sealing member may be or may include one of a cover or plate covering the reservoir outlet in a closed configuration. Similarly, the sealing member may be or may include a mandrel that is arranged at least partially in the reservoir outlet in a closed configuration to block the reservoir outlet. For example, the sealing member may be a mandrel having a hemispherical or conical shape to close a circular opening in the reservoir outlet.

[0034] As described above, the sealing member may also include a flexible tube made of an elastic membrane material. The flexible tube may include multiple slits extending through the tube wall along the tube axis (i.e., along the length axis of the flexible tube). The slitted tubular sealing member may be arranged in the article such that it is compressed and bulges outward. Due to the bulge, the slits through the tube wall of the sealing member can open, thereby allowing aerosol-forming liquid to enter the interior of the tubular sealing member and thus into fluid communication with the reservoir outlet. In an extended (non-bulging) configuration of the sealing member, the slits through the tube wall of the sealing member are sealed closed, such that the tubular sealing member sealably closes the reservoir outlet.

[0035] The aerosol generating article may also include a liquid conduit, which, when the sealing member is in the open configuration, is used to deliver the aerosol generating liquid from the liquid reservoir through the reservoir outlet to a region outside the liquid reservoir.

[0036] The liquid conduit may be fixedly disposed within the aerosol-generating article. Alternatively, the liquid conduit may be movably disposed within the aerosol-generating article. The liquid conduit may be switchable between a first position and a second position. For example, the liquid conduit may be attached to at least one of a sealing member or an actuator member. Therefore, the liquid conduit may switch between the first and second positions together with either the sealing member or the actuator member to provide switchable liquid flow from a liquid reservoir to a region outside the liquid reservoir. The first position corresponds to the sealing member being in a closed configuration, while the second position corresponds to the sealing member being in an open configuration.

[0037] When the sealing member is in the closed configuration, the liquid conduit can be at least partially arranged outside the reservoir. Specifically, when the sealing member is in the closed configuration, the liquid conduit can be completely arranged outside the reservoir. As a result, when the sealing member is in the closed configuration, the liquid conduit does not come into contact with the aerosol-forming liquid in the reservoir. Advantageously, this prevents contamination of the aerosol-forming liquid in the reservoir and unintentional spillage from the reservoir.

[0038] Therefore, generally speaking, when the sealing member is in the closed configuration, the liquid conduit preferably forms a seal with the aerosol in the reservoir.

[0039] Conversely, when the sealing member is in the closed configuration, the liquid conduit is preferably completely disposed within the reservoir. This also prevents contamination of the aerosol-forming liquid within the reservoir and unintentional spillage from the reservoir via the liquid conduit when the sealing member is in the closed configuration.

[0040] When the sealing member is in the open configuration, the liquid conduit can be at least partially arranged within the reservoir. That is, at least a portion of the liquid conduit can extend into the reservoir. Similarly, when the sealing member is in the open configuration, the liquid conduit can face the reservoir. As used herein, the term "facing the reservoir" refers to a configuration in which the liquid conduit is in fluid communication with the reservoir but does not extend into the reservoir. For example, the liquid conduit can terminate at the reservoir outlet. Both arrangements allow the liquid conduit to be soaked by the aerosol contained in the reservoir. Therefore, at least when the sealing member is in the open configuration, the portion of the liquid conduit arranged within or facing the reservoir can be referred to as the soaked section of the liquid conduit.

[0041] When the sealing member is in the open configuration, the liquid conduit can be at least partially arranged in a region outside the reservoir. That is, at least a portion of the liquid conduit can extend into a region outside the reservoir. Similarly, when the sealing member is in the open configuration, the liquid conduit can face a region outside the reservoir. As used herein, the term "facing a region outside the reservoir" refers to a configuration in which the liquid conduit is in fluid communication with a region outside the reservoir but does not extend into said region. For example, the liquid conduit can terminate at a reservoir outlet. Both arrangements enable the provision of an aerosol-forming liquid for evaporation in a region outside the reservoir. Thus, the region outside the reservoir can be an evaporation zone, where the aerosol-forming liquid can be evaporated by heating to form an aerosol. Preferably, the evaporation zone is part of the aerosol-generating article. That is, the aerosol-generating article can include an evaporation zone, particularly an evaporation chamber. Therefore, when the sealing member is in the open configuration, the liquid conduit can extend into the evaporation zone, or can be arranged in the evaporation zone. Similarly, when the sealing member is in the open configuration, the liquid conduit can face the evaporation zone.

[0042] When the sealing member is in the open configuration, the liquid conduit can pass through the reservoir outlet. This is particularly suitable for situations where the liquid conduit leads into the reservoir and into areas outside the reservoir.

[0043] Even when the sealing member is in the closed configuration, the liquid conduit may still pass through the reservoir outlet. Although the liquid conduit passes through the reservoir outlet in the closed configuration, the sealing member can still seal the reservoir outlet shut. For example, the sealing member can be a cap, such as a cup-shaped cap, applied to the portion of the liquid conduit that passes through the reservoir outlet, and covering both the liquid conduit and the reservoir outlet to seal and isolate the reservoir from the area outside the reservoir. As another example, the sealing member can be deformable and configured to have a cap-like or cup-like shape, at least in the closed configuration.

[0044] The liquid conduit may also pass through at least one of the sealing member and the actuator member.

[0045] Furthermore, when the sealing member is in the closed configuration, at least a portion of the liquid conduit may be compressed. Advantageously, compression of the liquid conduit can lead to a reduction or even interruption of liquid delivery through it. This prevents aerosol-forming liquid from spilling from the reservoir through the liquid conduit. Compression of the liquid conduit is particularly beneficial when the liquid conduit passes through the sealing member, even in the closed configuration of the sealing member.

[0046] Generally, liquid conduits can have any shape and configuration suitable for conveying aerosol-forming liquids from the reservoir to areas outside the reservoir, especially to the evaporation zone of the product.

[0047] Liquid conduits may include wicking elements. The wicking element may be constructed of stranded wire, stranded material rope, net, mesh tube, several concentric mesh tubes, cloth, material sheet or foam (or other porous solid) with sufficient porosity, a roll of fine metal mesh or metal foil, fiber or some other arrangement of mesh, or any other geometry suitably sized and constructed to perform the wicking action described herein.

[0048] 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, and preferably extend 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.

[0049] 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.

[0050] 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 buffer reservoir and an evaporation zone, each of the first and second soaking sections may be at least partially arranged within the capillary buffer reservoir, while the intermediate section may be arranged in a region outside the capillary buffer reservoir, particularly in the evaporation zone.

[0051] 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.

[0052] 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.

[0053] 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.

[0054] 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.

[0055] 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.

[0056] 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.

[0057] 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.

[0058] 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.

[0059] 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.

[0060] Additionally, the liquid conduit may include a second sensor material. While the first sensor material may be optimized for heat loss and thus for heating efficiency, the second sensor material may 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 may 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. The second sensor material preferably has a Curie temperature below 500 degrees Celsius. Specifically, the second sensor 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.

[0061] As an example, a 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. Preferably, the first receptor material differs from the 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 energy. 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.

[0062] 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.

[0063] 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.

[0064] 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 reservoir can be refilled with aerosol-forming liquid. In any configuration, the aerosol generating article may also include the aerosol-forming liquid contained in the reservoir.

[0065] 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 contain tobacco-containing materials containing volatile tobacco flavor compounds that are released from the liquid upon heating. Alternatively or additionally, aerosol-forming liquids may contain 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.

[0066] The reservoir may contain or be made of one of the following: PEEK (polyetheretherketone), PP (polypropylene), PE (polyethylene), or PET (polyethylene terephthalate). PP, PE, and PET are particularly cost-effective and easy to mold, especially easy to extrude.

[0067] The reservoir can be at least divided into a main reservoir for storing aerosol-forming liquid and a capillary buffer reservoir, the capillary buffer reservoir being in fluid communication with the main reservoir for storing the aerosol-forming liquid due to capillary action. The reservoir outlet is in fluid communication with the capillary buffer reservoir for providing the aerosol-forming liquid at the interface between the capillary buffer reservoir and the main reservoir. The buffer reservoir is configured to store the aerosol-forming liquid due to capillary action to reliably provide a liquid conduit in fluid communication with the buffer reservoir, independent of the article's position, and the buffer reservoir has a sufficient quantity of aerosol-forming liquid. For this purpose, the volume of the capillary buffer reservoir can be chosen to be small enough 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. Basically, the capillary buffer reservoir functions similarly to the buffer reservoir in a fountain pen.

[0068] The size of the capillary buffer reservoir can be selected such that the maximum dimension between two opposing walls defining at least a portion of the capillary buffer reservoir is between 0.2 mm and 5 mm, particularly between 0.5 mm and 2.5 mm, and preferably between 1 mm and 2 mm. These values ​​ensure sufficient capillary action while still allowing for a sufficiently large buffer volume to store a sufficient amount of aerosol-forming liquid.

[0069] 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.

[0070] 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.

[0071] According to the present invention, an aerosol generation system is also provided, 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.

[0072] According to the present invention, an aerosol generation system is also provided, 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.

[0073] 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.

[0074] The device may include a receiving cavity for removably receiving at least a portion of the aerosol-generated article.

[0075] 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 from the reservoir to an area outside the reservoir (particularly the evaporation zone as described above). The liquid may be transported via a liquid conduit as described above.

[0076] 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.

[0077] 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.

[0078] 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.

[0079] 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.

[0080] 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, as used herein, the term "flat helical coil" encompasses both planar coils and flat helical coils shaped to conform to a curved surface. 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.

[0081] 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.

[0082] 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 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.

[0083] 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.

[0084] 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).

[0085] 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.

[0086] 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.

[0087] The aerosol generating 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 sensing 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 for a period 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 aspirations or discrete activation of the sensing source.

[0088] 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.

[0089] To convert the sealing member of an article from at least a closed configuration to an open configuration, the aerosol generating apparatus may include a magnetic coil, a permanent magnet, or a magnetic material. The magnetic coil, permanent magnet, or magnetic material may form a fixed portion of a movable magnet actuator. As a movable mating portion of the movable magnet actuator, the aerosol generating article may include a magnetically driven actuator component comprising a permanent magnet. As further described above with respect to the aerosol generating article according to the invention, through interaction with the magnetic coil, permanent magnet, or magnetic material of the apparatus, the permanent magnet may move at least from a first position to a second position, thereby converting the sealing member from a closed configuration to an open configuration.

[0090] Similarly, as described above, the aerosol generating apparatus may include a magnetic coil or a permanent magnet, and the aerosol generating article may include a magnetically driven actuator component, which includes a ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic component that can be moved from at least a first position to a second position by interacting with the magnetic coil or permanent magnet of the apparatus, thereby changing the sealing member from a closed configuration to an open configuration.

[0091] In any of the aforementioned configurations, the use of a magnetic coil advantageously enables control over the opening and closing of the reservoir outlet. The aerosol generating apparatus can be configured to activate the magnetic coil in response to at least one of the following: user input, or the start of a heating operation for heating the aerosol-forming liquid, or the insertion of an article into the aerosol generating apparatus. Similarly, the aerosol generating apparatus can be configured to deactivate the magnetic coil in response to at least one of the following: user input, or the cessation of a heating operation for heating the aerosol-forming liquid, or the removal of an article from the aerosol generating apparatus.

[0092] According to another aspect, the aerosol-generating article may include a mechanically contact-driven actuator component. The mechanically contact-driven actuator component may be configured and arranged to mechanically interact with the aerosol-generating apparatus to change the sealing member of the article from at least a closed configuration to an open configuration. For this purpose, the aerosol-generating apparatus may include a pusher or a retainer, particularly a fixed pusher or a fixed retainer, such as a piston, for example, a protrusion. The pusher or retainer may be arranged and configured to change the actuator component of the aerosol-generating article from a first configuration to a second configuration when the article is inserted into the aerosol-generating apparatus, thereby changing the sealing member from a closed configuration to an open configuration. Additionally, the pusher or retainer may be arranged and configured to change the actuator component of the aerosol-generating article from a second configuration to a first configuration when the article is removed from the aerosol-generating apparatus, thereby changing the sealing member from an open configuration to a closed configuration. Similarly, the aerosol generating device may include a mechanical actuator configured and arranged to mechanically interact with a mechanically contact-driven actuator member for converting the actuator member from a first configuration to a second configuration. The mechanical actuator of the device may be a movable actuator or a movable holder. Movement of the movable actuator or movable holder can be manually actuated by a user. Likewise, movement of the movable actuator or movable holder can be actuated by an electrically driven actuator or a magnetically driven actuator.

[0093] According to another aspect, the aerosol-generating article may include a thermally driven actuator component as described above, and the aerosol-generating apparatus may include a heating device for heating the thermally driven actuator component when the article is inserted into the aerosol-generating apparatus, so as to change the sealing member from the closed configuration to the open configuration. The heating device may include a resistance heater. Alternatively, the thermally driven actuator component may include a sensor material, and the heating device may include an induction source for generating an alternating magnetic field at the location of the thermally driven actuator component when the article is housed in the aerosol-generating apparatus, so as to heat the thermally driven actuator component by induction heating.

[0094] A heating device for heating components of a thermally driven actuator can be configured to be activated in response to at least one of the following: user input, or the start of a heating operation for heating the aerosol-forming liquid, or insertion of an article into the aerosol generating device. Similarly, a heating device for heating components of a thermally driven actuator can be configured to be deactivated in response to at least one of the following: user input, or the cessation of a heating operation for heating the aerosol-forming liquid, or removal of an article from the aerosol generating device.

[0095] 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.

[0096] 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.

[0097] Example Ex1: An aerosol generating article for use with an aerosol generating apparatus, the article comprising:

[0098] - A liquid reservoir for storing aerosol-forming liquid, wherein the liquid reservoir includes a reservoir outlet;

[0099] - A sealing member capable of reversibly switching between an open configuration and a closed configuration to open or seal the reservoir outlet, respectively; and

[0100] - An actuator component operatively coupled to the sealing member for converting the sealing member at least from the closed configuration to the open configuration.

[0101] Example Ex2: An aerosol generating article according to Example Ex1, wherein the actuator component is configured to switch the sealing component from the open configuration to the closed configuration.

[0102] Example Ex3: An aerosol-generated article according to any one of the foregoing examples, wherein the actuator component is a thermally driven actuator component.

[0103] Example Ex4: An aerosol-generated article according to Example Ex3, wherein the thermally driven actuator component comprises a bimetallic or shape memory material.

[0104] Example Ex5: An aerosol-generated article according to any one of Example Ex3 or Example Ex4, wherein the thermally driven actuator component includes at least one temperature-actuated spring.

[0105] Example Ex6: The aerosol generating article according to Example Ex5, wherein the at least one temperature-actuated spring comprises at least one of a cylindrical helical spring, a conical helical spring, a disc spring, or a star spring.

[0106] Example Ex7: An aerosol-generated article according to any one of Example Ex1 or Example Ex2, wherein the actuator component is a magnetically driven actuator component.

[0107] Example Ex8: An aerosol generating article according to Example Ex7, wherein the magnetically driven actuator component includes a permanent magnet that is capable of moving at least from a first position to a second position by interaction with a magnetic coil, a permanent magnet or a magnetic material of the aerosol generating device, thereby converting the sealing component from the closed configuration to the open configuration.

[0108] Example Ex9: An aerosol generating article according to Example Ex7, wherein the magnetically driven actuator component comprises a ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic component capable of moving at least from a first position to a second position by interaction with a magnetic coil or permanent magnet of the aerosol generating device, thereby converting the sealing component from the closed configuration to the open configuration.

[0109] Example Ex10: An aerosol generating article according to any one of Example Ex1 or Example Ex2, wherein the actuator member is a mechanically contact-driven actuator member configured and arranged to mechanically interact with the aerosol generating device when inserted into the aerosol generating device to change from a first configuration to a second configuration, thereby changing the sealing member from a closed configuration to an open configuration.

[0110] Example Ex11: An aerosol generating article according to any one of the foregoing examples further includes a return mechanism arranged and configured to convert the sealing member from the open configuration to the closed configuration.

[0111] Example Ex12: The aerosol generating article according to Example Ex11, wherein the return mechanism includes at least one return spring.

[0112] Example Ex13: An aerosol-generating article according to any one of Example Ex11 or Example Ex12, wherein the return mechanism is at least partially implemented by a sealing member comprising or made of an elastic material.

[0113] Example Ex14: An aerosol-generating article according to any one of the examples, wherein the actuator component and the sealing component are integrally formed together.

[0114] Example Ex15: An aerosol generating article according to any one of the foregoing examples further includes a liquid conduit, which, when the sealing member is in the open configuration, is used to deliver aerosol generating liquid from the liquid reservoir through the reservoir outlet to a region outside the liquid reservoir.

[0115] Example Ex16: An aerosol-generating article according to Example Ex15, wherein a liquid conduit is attached to at least one of a sealing member and an actuator member.

[0116] Example Ex17: An aerosol-generating article according to any one of Example Ex15 or Example Ex16, wherein the liquid conduit includes a wicking element, in particular a bundle of filaments, preferably an untwisted bundle of filaments, or a mesh.

[0117] Example Ex18: An aerosol generating article according to any one of Examples Ex15 to Ex17, wherein the liquid conduit is inductively heated.

[0118] Example Ex19: An aerosol generating article according to any one of Examples Ex15 to Ex18, wherein the liquid conduit includes a liquid delivery sensor assembly.

[0119] Example Ex20: An aerosol generating article according to any one of Examples Ex15 to Ex19, wherein when the sealing member is in the closed configuration, the liquid conduit is at least partially arranged outside the reservoir.

[0120] Example Ex21: An aerosol generating article according to any one of Examples Ex15 to Ex20, wherein when the sealing member is in the closed configuration, the liquid conduit is completely arranged outside the reservoir.

[0121] Example Ex22: An aerosol generating article according to any one of Examples Ex15 to Ex21, wherein when the sealing member is in the closed configuration, the liquid conduit forms a seal with the aerosol forming liquid in the reservoir.

[0122] Example Ex23: An aerosol generating article according to any one of Examples Ex15 to Ex22, wherein when the sealing member is in the open configuration, the liquid conduit is at least partially arranged in the reservoir.

[0123] Example Ex24: An aerosol-generating article according to any one of Examples Ex15 to Ex23, wherein when the sealing member is in the open configuration, the liquid conduit passes through the reservoir outlet.

[0124] Example Ex25: An aerosol-generating article according to any one of Examples Ex15 to Ex24, wherein when the sealing member is in the closed configuration, the liquid conduit passes through the reservoir outlet.

[0125] Example Ex26: An aerosol-generating article according to any one of Examples Ex15 to Ex25, wherein a liquid conduit passes through at least one of a sealing member and an actuator member.

[0126] Example Ex27: An aerosol generating article according to any one of Examples Ex15 to Ex26, wherein at least a portion of the liquid conduit is compressed when the sealing member is in the closed configuration.

[0127] Example Ex28: An article is generated from an aerosol according to any one of Examples Ex15 to Ex27, wherein the article includes an evaporation zone, in particular an evaporation zone.

[0128] Example Ex29: An aerosol generating article according to Example Ex28, wherein when the sealing member is in the open configuration, the liquid conduit leads into the evaporation zone or faces the evaporation zone.

[0129] Example Ex30: An aerosol-generating article according to any one of the foregoing examples, wherein the sealing member comprises an elastic material (in particular a rubber material) or is made of an elastic material.

[0130] Example Ex31: An aerosol generation system comprising an aerosol generation apparatus and an aerosol generation article used with the apparatus according to any one of the foregoing examples.

[0131] Example Ex32: According to the aerosol generation system of Example Ex31, wherein the aerosol generation device includes a magnetic coil, a permanent magnet or a magnetic material, and wherein the aerosol generation article includes a magnetically driven actuator component, the magnetically driven actuator component including a permanent magnet, the permanent magnet being capable of moving at least from a first position to a second position by interaction with the magnetic coil, the permanent magnet or the magnetic material of the device, thereby converting the sealing member from the closed configuration to the open configuration.

[0132] Example Ex33: According to the aerosol generation system of Example Ex31, the aerosol generation article includes a mechanically contact-driven actuator component configured and arranged to mechanically interact with the aerosol generation device, and wherein the aerosol generation device includes a pusher or a retainer, particularly a fixed pusher or retainer, the pusher or the retainer being arranged and configured to, when the article is inserted into the aerosol generation device, convert the actuator component of the aerosol generation article from a first configuration to a second configuration, thereby converting the sealing member from the closed configuration to the open configuration.

[0133] Example Ex34: According to the aerosol generation system of Example Ex33, the actuator or clamp may be arranged and configured to change the actuator component of the aerosol-generated article from a second configuration to a first configuration when the article is removed from the aerosol generation device, thereby changing the sealing component from an open configuration to a closed configuration.

[0134] Example Ex35: An aerosol generation system according to Example Ex31, wherein the aerosol generation article includes a thermally driven actuator component, and wherein the aerosol generation device includes a heating device for heating the thermally driven actuator component when the article is inserted into the aerosol generation device, so as to change the sealing component from the closed configuration to the open configuration.

[0135] Example Ex36: The aerosol generation system according to Example Ex35, wherein the heating device includes a resistance heater.

[0136] Example Ex37: The aerosol generation system according to Example Ex35, wherein the thermally driven actuator component includes a sensor material, and wherein the heating device includes an induction source for generating an alternating magnetic field at the location of the thermally driven actuator component when the article is contained in the aerosol generation device, so as to heat the thermally driven actuator component by induction heating.

[0137] Example Ex38: An aerosol generation system according to Example Ex31, wherein the aerosol generation device includes a magnetic coil or a permanent magnet, and wherein the aerosol generation article includes a magnetically driven actuator component, the magnetically driven actuator component including a ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic component, the ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic component being able to move at least from a first position to a second position by interaction with the magnetic coil or permanent magnet of the device, thereby changing the sealing member from a closed configuration to an open configuration. Attached Figure Description

[0138] The example will now be described further with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0139] Figure 1 A first embodiment of the aerosol-generating article according to the invention in an open configuration is schematically shown;

[0140] Figure 2 Show along the line AA passing through according to Figure 1 The cross-section of the aerosol-generated product;

[0141] Figure 3 The basis for displaying the closed configuration Figures 1 to 2 Aerosol-generated products;

[0142] 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 Figures 1 to 3 Articles thereof and aerosol generating apparatus for use with the articles thereof;

[0143] Figure 5The diagram schematically illustrates the basis of the open configuration. Figures 1 to 3 Alternatives to aerosol-generated products;

[0144] Figure 6 A second embodiment of the aerosol-generating article according to the invention in a closed configuration is schematically shown;

[0145] Figure 7 The diagram schematically illustrates the basis of the open configuration. Figure 6 Aerosol-generated products;

[0146] Figure 8 Another exemplary embodiment of an aerosol generation system is schematically shown, the aerosol generation system including an aerosol generation article according to a third embodiment and an aerosol generation apparatus for use with the article;

[0147] Figure 9 The demonstration shows a closed configuration without an aerosol generation device. Figure 8 Aerosol-generated products;

[0148] Figure 10 This schematically illustrates yet another exemplary embodiment of an aerosol generation system, which includes an aerosol generation article according to a fourth embodiment and an aerosol generation apparatus for use with the article; and

[0149] Figure 11 The demonstration shows a closed configuration without an aerosol generation device. Figure 10 Aerosol-generated products. Detailed Implementation

[0150] 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 provided by the aerosol generating article 40 to form a liquid 50. The article 40 includes a generally cylindrical article housing made of a liquid-impermeable rigid material, such as PET (polyethylene terephthalate), PP (polypropylene), or PE (polyethylene). The article housing includes a hollow cylindrical outer tubular wall 42, a first end cap 44, and a second end cap 43. The first end cap 44 seals off the internal void of the tubular wall 42 at a first end 57, while the second end cap 43 seals off the internal void of the tubular wall 42 at a opposite second end 56. The article 40 also includes a cylindrical partition wall 41, which forms part of the article shell, coaxially arranged within a cylindrical tubular outer wall 42 to divide the internal void of the cylindrical tubular outer wall 42 into a hollow cylindrical first compartment 58 and a cylindrical second compartment coaxially surrounded by the first compartment 58. At the bottom of the second compartment, the article 40 includes a generally dish-shaped bushing 45 that separates the internal void of the second compartment from a recess formed in a second end cap 43. The first compartment 58 forms a hollow cylindrical main reservoir 51 for storing aerosol-forming liquid 50, while the portion of the recess aligned with the second compartment serves as a capillary buffer reservoir 52. Figure 1 As can be seen, the recess is formed such 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. That is, the main reservoir 51 and the capillary buffer reservoir 52 are in fluid communication with each other. The main reservoir and the capillary buffer reservoir 52 together form the reservoir 58 of the aerosol-generating article 40 according to the invention and as defined herein. Conversely, the second compartment is not part of the reservoir 58, but is located in a region outside the reservoir 58. In this embodiment, the second compartment forms a cylindrical evaporation zone 53, particularly for evaporating the aerosol-forming liquid stored in the reservoir 58. To provide fluid communication between the reservoir 58 and the evaporation zone 53, the bushing includes an orifice forming the reservoir outlet 59 of the reservoir 58. As further described above, the buffer reservoir 52 is configured to store aerosol-forming liquid due to capillary action, so as to provide a certain amount of aerosol-forming liquid near the reservoir outlet 59, independent of the article position. For this purpose, the volume of the capillary buffer reservoir is chosen to be small enough that the capillary effect exceeds gravity. Specifically, it is sufficient for the buffer reservoir to have only one dimension smaller than the effective capillary length. Therefore, once the aerosol-forming liquid 50 has been filled into the buffer reservoir 52, backflow of the aerosol-forming liquid into the main reservoir 51 is prevented, especially when the orientation of the article 40 is changed, for example from... Figure 1The basically vertical position shown in the image becomes a basically horizontal position, or even becomes an inverted position. Basically, the capillary buffer reservoir 51 functions similarly to the buffer reservoir of a fountain pen.

[0151] To transport the aerosol-forming liquid 50 from the capillary buffer reservoir 52 to the evaporation zone 53, the article 40 includes a liquid conduit 70, details of which are also shown in [the image / description]. Figure 2 In this embodiment, the liquid conduit 70 is an untwisted filament bundle having a substantially circular cross-section, which is particularly easy to manufacture. The filament bundle includes multiple filaments 71, 72 arranged parallel to each other. Due to the arrangement of the filaments 71, 72 in the filament bundle and due to the small diameter of the filaments 71, 72, the liquid conduit 70 includes capillary channels formed between the filaments 71, 72. These channels provide capillary action extending along the length of the liquid conduit 70, thereby allowing the aerosol-forming liquid 50 to be delivered from the capillary buffer reservoir 52 to the evaporation chamber 53.

[0152] 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.

[0153] like Figure 1 As can be seen, the liquid conduit 70 passes through the reservoir outlet 59 of the reservoir 58 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. (As shown in...) Figure 1 As in the example, the first portion of the liquid conduit 70 is arranged in the buffer reservoir 52 and thus immersed in the aerosol-forming liquid 50. This 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.

[0154] To prevent aerosol-forming liquid from leaking from reservoir 58 before the first consumption of product 40, or when product 40 is temporarily unused during consumption, product 40 includes a sealing member 90 that can switch between an open configuration and a closed configuration to open or seal the reservoir outlet 59. Figure 1 The aerosol-generating product is displayed in the open configuration of the sealing member 90, while Figure 3 An aerosol-generating article 40 is shown in a closed configuration with the sealing member 90. Therefore, the reversible closing and opening of the seal increases the shelf life of the article and its service life after initial consumption.

[0155] In this embodiment, the sealing member 90 is a sheet made of rubber that abuts against the bushing 45 in the closed configuration, thereby sealingly covering the reservoir outlet 59. To convert the sealing member from the closed configuration to the open configuration, and preferably also back, the aerosol generating article 40 further includes an actuator member 91 operatively coupled to the sealing member 90. In this embodiment, the actuator member 91 is a helical spring made of a shape memory material, particularly a bidirectional shape memory material. As a result, the spring remembers two different shapes: a shape at low temperatures and a shape at high temperatures at or above a predefined switching temperature. In this embodiment, the spring is configured such that it is in an extended state at low temperatures, such as… Figure 3 As shown in the image. Conversely, as... Figure 1 As shown, the spring is in a contracted state at or above a predefined switching temperature. In this embodiment, the helical spring is arranged between the inner surface of the second end cap 43 and the side of the sealing member 90 facing the second end cap 43. Furthermore, the helical spring is attached to both the second end cap 43 and the sealing member 90. Thus, in the extended state, the helical spring presses the sealing member 90 against the bushing 45 to seal the reservoir outlet 59 from the inside of the reservoir. Conversely, in the contracted state, the helical spring lifts the sealing member 90 from the bushing 45 to release the reservoir outlet 59. Advantageously, due to the bidirectional shape memory material, the helical spring allows for active switching of the seal 90 in both directions, i.e., from a closed configuration to an open configuration, and from an open configuration to a closed configuration.

[0156] To guide the movement of the sealing member 90, the aerosol generating article 40 also includes a piston 92 attached to the sealing member 90 and slidably supported in a guide hole 93 in the second end cap 43.

[0157] As further described above, the shape memory material should be selected such that it has a switching temperature sufficiently higher than the temperature at which the article is typically transported or stored, but sufficiently lower than the boiling temperature of the aerosol-forming liquid 50 stored in the article 40. For example, the switching temperature may be between 80 degrees Celsius and 180 degrees Celsius, particularly in the range between 80 degrees Celsius and 120 degrees Celsius. For example, the shape memory material may be an austenitic titanium alloy, particularly an austenitic nickel-titanium alloy or a nickel-titanium hafnium alloy.

[0158] For example, regarding Figure 4 In more detail, the thermal energy required to drive the phase change of the shape memory material and thus change the sealing member from a closed configuration to an open configuration comes from a heating device in the aerosol generating apparatus, with article 40 configured for use with said aerosol generating apparatus.

[0159] As in Figure 1 and Figure 3 As can be further seen, the liquid conduit 70 is slidably arranged in the article 40 and attached to the sealing member 90, specifically to the side facing the reservoir outlet 59. Therefore, the liquid conduit 70 can move with the sealing member 90. Thus, in the open configuration, the liquid conduit 70 is partially arranged in the reservoir 58. Conversely, in the open configuration, the liquid conduit 70 is not arranged in the reservoir 58, but only in the evaporation zone 53, and partially in the passageway of the reservoir outlet 59.

[0160] Figure 5 Display according to Figure 1 and Figure 3 An alternative embodiment of article 40. Here, the liquid conduit 70 is not attached to the sealing member 90. Instead, the liquid conduit 70 is fixedly arranged in article 40, specifically only in the evaporation zone 53 and the reservoir outlet 59. That is, the liquid conduit 70 terminates in the passage of the reservoir outlet 59, but does not lead into the reservoir 58, whether in the closed configuration or the open configuration. However, in the open configuration, the portion of the liquid conduit terminating at the reservoir outlet 59 faces the reservoir and can therefore still be represented as the immersion section 75. In this configuration, the hole in the bushing 45 forming the reservoir outlet 59 can also be used to bind the filaments 71, 72 of the liquid conduit 70, i.e., to hold the filaments 71, 72 together. Furthermore, the hole can be used to fix the position of the liquid conduit 70 relative to the article housing.

[0161] Refer again Figure 1The 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. The mouthpiece 47 includes a filter 55 and an air outlet 48. The mouthpiece 47 is in fluid communication with an evaporation chamber 45 via an outlet 49 in the first end cap 44. The first end cap 44 includes at least one air inlet 46 allowing air to enter the article 40. The air inlet 46 may be configured to provide airflow at or around a heated section 76 of the liquid conduit 70. The air inlet 46 may be an orifice. Alternatively, the air inlet 46 may be a nozzle configured to direct airflow to a specific target location within the liquid conduit 70. Therefore, when a user inhales through the mouthpiece 47, air is drawn into the evaporation chamber 53 of the article 40. Aerosol evaporating from the heating section 76 of the liquid conduit 70 forms a liquid that is exposed to air passing through the evaporation chamber 45 to form an aerosol. This aerosol exits the evaporation chamber 45 through outlet 49 and enters a mouthpiece, where it is subsequently drawn into the user's mouth through a filter 55 and air outlet 48. The filter 55 can be used to filter out unwanted components of the aerosol. The filter 55 may also contain additional materials, such as flavoring materials to be added to the aerosol.

[0162] 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 60 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 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.

[0163] 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.

[0164] To provide the thermal energy required to drive the phase change of the actuator component 91 and thereby switch the sealing component 90 from a closed configuration to an open configuration, the aerosol generating apparatus includes an induction heating device. The induction heating device includes an induction source comprising an induction coil 94, which generates an alternating magnetic field at the location of the thermally driven actuator component 91 when the article 40 is housed in the aerosol generating apparatus 60, thereby inductively heating the actuator component 91. The induction heating of the actuator component 91 is due to the conductivity of its shape memory material, and thus it is able to convert electromagnetic energy into heat when subjected to an alternating magnetic field. In this embodiment, the induction coil 94 is a flat helical coil, particularly a disc coil. The use of a flat helical coil allows for a robust and inexpensive compact design. To drive the phase change of the shape memory material, the actuator component 91 is heated to or above the switching temperature of the shape memory material. However, the heating temperature should still be sufficiently below the evaporation temperature T_vap of the aerosol forming liquid 50. Heating of actuator component 91 can be initiated in response to user input, the start of a heating operation for heating the aerosol-forming liquid, or the insertion of an article into the aerosol generating device.

[0165] The aerosol generating device 60 also includes a controller 64 for controlling the operation of the aerosol generating system 80, particularly for controlling the heating operation of the liquid conduit 70 and the thermally driven actuator component 91. 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.

[0166] Figure 6 and Figure 7 A second exemplary embodiment of the aerosol generation of article 140 according to the present invention is illustrated schematically. Generally, according to Figures 6 to 7 The aerosol-generating product 140 is very similar to Figures 1 to 3 The 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 100. Figures 1 to 3 Compared to the first implementation scheme shown in the document, according to Figures 6 to 7 Article 140 includes a thermally driven actuator component 191, which is a star spring made of bidirectional shape memory material. Actuator component 191 is attached to a second end cap 143. In a first stage where the temperature is below the switching temperature of the shape memory material, the star spring is in a bent configuration, wherein the arms of the star spring bend out of the plane, as... Figure 6 As shown in the diagram. In the second stage, when the temperature is at or above the switching temperature of the shape memory material, the star spring is in a flattened configuration, as... Figure 7 As shown in the illustration. Similar to the first embodiment, article 140 includes a sealing member 190 made of rubber. The disc-shaped sealing member 190 is fixedly attached to a star spring and laterally protrudes beyond the dimensions of the star spring. Due to its flexible nature, the sealing member 190 can deform and thus follow the shape transition of the star spring between a first stage and a second stage. Thus, at temperatures at or above the switching temperature, the sealing member 190 is in a flat configuration in which it clears the reservoir outlet 159. Conversely, at temperatures below the switching temperature of the shape memory material, the sealing member 190 deforms into a cup shape to sealably cover the reservoir outlet 159 and the soaking section 175 of the liquid conduit. Instead of a shape memory material, the thermally driven actuator member 191 may be made of bimetal, which is in a flexural configuration at temperatures below the operating temperature of the article during use and in a flat configuration at temperatures close to or above the operating temperature of the article during use.

[0167] Figures 6 to 7 An exemplary embodiment of a sealing member that can deform between a closed configuration and an open configuration is shown, while Figures 1 to 3 Exemplary embodiments of a sealing member that can be displaced between a closed configuration and an open configuration are shown. Both embodiments fall within the scope of the term "sealing member" that is "convertible" between a closed configuration and an open configuration.

[0168] Figure 8 A second exemplary embodiment of the aerosol generation system 280 according to the present invention is schematically illustrated. The system 280 includes an aerosol generation article 240 and an aerosol generation device 260 for use with the article 240, both of which are similar to... Figure 4 The aerosol generating system 80, aerosol generating article 80, and aerosol generating apparatus 60 are shown in the diagram. Therefore, identical or similar features are indicated by the same reference numerals, incremented by only 200. Figure 4 Compared to the system 80 shown in the image, according to Figure 8 Article 240 includes a magnetically driven actuator component 295. In this embodiment, the magnetically driven actuator component includes a piston 295 made of a ferromagnetic material, which can be moved at least from a first position to a second position by interaction with a magnetic coil 297 of the aerosol generating device 260. The magnetic coil 297 together with the ferromagnetic piston 295 forms a movable ferromagnetic actuator. The magnetic coil 297 is arranged close to the bottom of the cavity 262 of the device 260 such that when the article is housed in the cavity 262, the ferromagnetic piston 295 is subjected to the magnetic field of the magnetic coil 297. Therefore, when the magnetic coil 297 is turned on, as Figure 8 As shown, the ferromagnetic piston 295 is attracted by the coil 297 and thus moves in the opposite direction to the reservoir outlet 259. When the sealing member 290 is fixedly attached to the piston 295, the piston lifts the sealing member 290 from the bushing 245 to release the reservoir outlet 259. When the magnetic coil 297 is disconnected, the ferromagnetic piston 295 is no longer attracted. To return the piston 295 to the first position and thus convert the sealing member to a closed configuration, the article 240 also includes a return mechanism. In this embodiment, the return mechanism includes a helical return spring 296 arranged around the piston and abutting the inner surface of the second end cap 243 on one side and the sealing member 290 on the other side. Thus, when the piston 295 is attracted to the second position by the magnetic coil 297, the return spring 296 is compressed. Conversely, when the magnetic coil 297 is disconnected, the return spring 296 releases its load, causing the piston 295 to move back to the first position, and the sealing member 290 is pressed against the bushing 245 to seal the reservoir outlet 259. This situation is illustrated in Figure 9 In order to provide guidance, the piston 295 is slidably supported in the guide hole 293 in the second end cap 243.

[0169] Alternatively, the piston may include a permanent magnet. Advantageously, the use of a permanent magnet enables the use of magnetic coils to switch the sealing member from a closed configuration to an open configuration, and from an open configuration to a closed configuration, by reversing the polarity of the magnetic coil. In this configuration, the article does not necessarily need a return mechanism, such as a return spring.

[0170] In any case, the use of a magnetic coil enables the controlled opening and closing of the reservoir outlet. The aerosol generating apparatus can be configured to activate the magnetic coil in response to at least one of the following: user input, or the start of a heating operation for heating the aerosol-forming liquid, or insertion of an article into the aerosol generating apparatus. Similarly, the aerosol generating apparatus can be configured to deactivate the magnetic coil in response to at least one of the following: user input, or the cessation of a heating operation for heating the aerosol-forming liquid, or removal of an article from the aerosol generating apparatus.

[0171] Figure 10 A third exemplary embodiment of the aerosol generation system 380 according to the present invention is schematically illustrated. The system 380 includes an aerosol generation article 340 and an aerosol generation device 360 ​​for use with the article 340, both of which are similar to... Figure 4 The aerosol generating system 80, aerosol generating article 80, and aerosol generating apparatus 60 are shown in the diagram. Therefore, identical or similar features are indicated by the same reference numerals, incremented by only 300. Figure 4 Compared to the system 80 shown in the image, according to Figure 10Article 240 includes a mechanically contact-driven actuator member 393 configured and arranged to mechanically interact with the aerosol generating device 360 ​​when inserted into it, so as to switch from a first configuration to a second configuration, thereby switching the sealing member 390 from a closed configuration to an open configuration. In this embodiment, the mechanically contact-driven actuator member 393 is a flexible wall member made of an elastic material such as silicone, forming the bottom portion of the second end cap 343. The sealing member 390 is a flexible tube made of an elastic membrane material, the flexible tube including a plurality of slits 395 extending along the tube axis through the tube wall. The slitted tubular sealing member 390 is attached at one end to the flexible actuator member 393 and at the other end to a bushing 345. When article 340 is inserted into cavity 362 of device 360, flexible actuator member 393 contacts a pusher, which in this embodiment is a piston-like protrusion 397 at the bottom of cavity 362. This causes flexible actuator member 393 to deform toward the interior of article 340. Due to this deformation of actuator member 393, slotted tubular sealing member 390 is compressed to bulge outward. Consequently, slit 395 through the wall of sealing member 390 opens, allowing aerosol-forming liquid to enter the interior of tubular sealing member 390 and thus fluidly communicate with liquid conduit 370 in reservoir outlet 359. When article 340 is removed from cavity 362, flexible actuator member 393 returns to its flat (undeformed) configuration due to its elastic properties. Similarly, due to the elastic properties of the tubular sealing member 390, and because the flexible actuator member 393 straightens the tubular sealing member when it returns to its flat configuration, the tubular sealing member returns to its extended (non-bulging) configuration. Figure 11 As shown, in the extended (non-protruding) configuration of the sealing member 390, the slit 395 passing through the tube wall of the sealing member 390 is sealed shut, such that the tubular sealing member 390 seals the reservoir outlet 259. Therefore, similar to... Figures 6 to 7 The implementation plan shown in the document is based on Figures 10 to 11 The sealing component 390 is available in such cases. Figure 11 The closed configuration shown in the figure is similar to... Figure 10 Another example of a sealing member that deforms between open configurations is shown in the figure.

[0172] 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 that may or may not be specifically listed herein. Thus, in this context, the numeral A shall be understood as A ± 5%. Within this context, the numeral A may be considered as a value included within the general standard error of the measurement of the characteristic modified by the numeral A. In some instances as used in the appended claims, the numeral A may deviate from the percentages listed above, provided that the amount of deviation from A does not materially affect the fundamental and novel features of the claimed invention. Furthermore, all ranges include the disclosed maximum and minimum points, and include any intermediate ranges that may or may not be specifically listed herein.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating article for use with an aerosol generating apparatus, the aerosol generating article comprising: - A liquid reservoir for storing aerosol-forming liquid, wherein the liquid reservoir includes a reservoir outlet; - A sealing member that can reversibly switch between an open configuration and a closed configuration to open or seal the reservoir outlet, respectively; as well as - An actuator component operatively coupled to the sealing member for converting the sealing member at least from the closed configuration to the open configuration. The actuator component is a thermally driven actuator component comprising a bimetallic or shape memory material, and the sealing component is deformable between a flat shape in the open configuration or the closed configuration and a curved shape in the closed configuration or the open configuration, and the thermally driven actuator component deforms when heated to convert the sealing component from the closed configuration to the open configuration.

2. The aerosol generating article according to claim 1, wherein the thermally driven actuator component comprises at least one temperature-actuated spring.

3. The aerosol generating article according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the thermally driven actuator component is inductively heatable and comprises a sensor material.

4. The aerosol generating article according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the actuator member is configured to switch the sealing member from the open configuration to the closed configuration.

5. The aerosol generating article according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the actuator component and the sealing component are integrally formed together.

6. The aerosol generating article according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the sealing member comprises a flexible tube made of an elastic membrane material.

7. The aerosol generating article of claim 6, wherein the flexible tube includes a plurality of slits passing through the wall of the flexible tube, the plurality of slits extending along the length axis of the flexible tube.

8. The aerosol-generating article according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a return mechanism arranged and configured to convert the sealing member from the open configuration to the closed configuration.

9. The aerosol generating article according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a liquid conduit, wherein when the sealing member is in the open configuration, the liquid conduit is used to deliver the aerosol generating liquid from the liquid reservoir through the reservoir outlet to a region outside the liquid reservoir.

10. The aerosol generating article of claim 9, wherein the liquid conduit is attached to the sealing member so as to be able to switch between a first position and a second position together with the sealing member.

11. The aerosol generating article according to claim 9, wherein the liquid conduit is an inductively heated liquid conduit.

12. The aerosol generating article according to claim 9, wherein the liquid conduit is a wicking element.

13. The aerosol generating article according to claim 9, wherein the liquid conduit is a bundle of filaments comprising a plurality of filaments.

14. An aerosol generation system comprising an aerosol generation apparatus and an aerosol generation article according to any one of claims 1 to 13 for use with said aerosol generation apparatus.

15. An aerosol generation system comprising an aerosol generation apparatus and an aerosol generation article according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the aerosol generation apparatus includes a heating device for heating the thermally driven actuator member when the aerosol generation article is inserted into the aerosol generation apparatus, so as to convert the sealing member from the closed configuration to the open configuration.

16. The aerosol generation system of claim 15, wherein the heating device is a common heating device for actuating the thermally driven actuator component and for evaporating the aerosol to form a liquid.

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