Replaceable module for aerosol and flavour generating device

Abstract

The invention relates to a replaceable module for an aerosol and flavour generating device, a heating system for an aerosol and flavour generating device, an aerosol and flavour generating device and a method of providing an airflow by a replaceable module for an aerosol and flavour generating device. The replaceable module comprises an air chamber. The air chamber comprises at least one air inlet for an airflow to enter the air chamber. The air chamber comprises an air outlet for a first portion of the airflow to exit the air chamber. The air outlet is configured to be connected to an aerosol generating article to direct the first portion of the airflow through the aerosol generating article. The air chamber comprises at least one opening arranged at a circumference of the air chamber for a second portion of the airflow to exit the air chamber radially. The air chamber comprises a holding unit for holding a flavour generating article between the air inlet and the opening.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a replaceable module for an aerosol and flavor generation device, a heating system for an aerosol and flavor generation device, an aerosol and flavor generation device, and a method for providing airflow through the replaceable module for the aerosol and flavor generation device. Background Technology

[0002] While existing electrically heated smoking systems or aerosol generating devices do have many advantages, there is still room for improvement when compared to the standard performance of conventional smoking products, namely regular cigarettes and cigars, especially in terms of delivering aroma and flavor. Summary of the Invention

[0003] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide an improved aerosol generating apparatus that provides improved aroma and flavor aspects.

[0004] The purpose of this disclosure is addressed by the subject matter of the independent claims, wherein other embodiments are incorporated in the dependent claims. It should be noted that the aspects of the disclosure described below apply to replaceable modules for aerosol and flavor generation devices, heating systems for aerosol and flavor generation devices, aerosol and flavor generation devices, and methods of providing airflow via replaceable modules for aerosol and flavor generation devices.

[0005] According to one aspect of this disclosure, a replaceable module for an aerosol and flavor generation apparatus is provided. The replaceable module includes an air chamber. The air chamber includes at least one air inlet for airflow to enter the air chamber.

[0006] The air chamber includes an air outlet for a first portion of the airflow to exit the air chamber. The air outlet is configured to connect to the aerosol-generating article to guide the first portion of the airflow through the aerosol-generating article. The air chamber includes at least one opening arranged circumferentially within the air chamber for a second portion of the airflow to exit the air chamber radially. The air chamber includes a holding unit for retaining the flavor-generating article between the air inlet and the opening.

[0007] Compared to traditional electrically heated smoking systems, the replaceable module for aerosol and flavor generation devices of this invention offers superior performance in terms of aroma and flavor. The aroma and flavor can be as good as those of regular cigarettes and cigars. This facilitates the user's transition from regular cigarettes and cigars to aerosol generation devices.

[0008] Improvements have been made to the aroma and flavor because not only is the main aerosol stream provided by the mouthpiece at the mouth of the aerosol generating article, thus delivering the aerosol to the user's mouth, but an aerosol stream mixed with the flavor from the flavor generating article can also be optionally provided. Furthermore, an aroma stream from the flavor generating article is provided by an opening arranged around the circumference of the air chamber, thus delivering the aroma to the user's nose.

[0009] Aerosol generating articles can be understood as disposable, single-use consumables used in conjunction with electrically heated aerosols and flavor generating devices or smoking systems that generate aerosols from aerosol generating articles. Aerosol generating articles may include a mouthpiece configured to be inserted into a user's mouth. The opposite end of the aerosol generating article may be configured to be inserted into a heated aerosol and a flavor generating device that generates aerosols from aerosol generating articles. Aerosol generating articles may include a mouthpiece and an aerosol forming matrix encased in at least a tipping paper. A mouthpiece can be understood as being configured to be inserted into a user's mouth.

[0010] Flavor-generating articles can be understood to include sensory media or flavor substances configured to naturally evaporate upon contact with air. Flavor-generating articles can be provided as capsules, tubes, or porous elements shaped like discs or rings containing sensory media. The shape of the flavor-generating article may affect airflow within the module. Flavor-generating articles may include solid matrix structures configured to absorb liquid sensory media. The solid matrix structure may include at least one of paper, cellulose acetate, expanded foam, or wire mesh. Flavor-generating articles may include solid porous matrices configured to release at least one sensory media.

[0011] Providing a solid porous matrix increases the surface area of ​​the flavor-generating article. As mentioned above, a larger surface area of ​​the flavor-generating article can advantageously increase the concentration of sensory media entrained in the air passing through the air chamber.

[0012] Evaporated sensory media can be understood as the aroma that a user perceives sensorily when inhaled through the nose. Evaporated sensory media can be understood as the flavor that a user perceives sensorily when inhaled through the mouth.

[0013] The volatile sensory medium can mix with and be carried in the airflow. The airflow flows from the distal or end position to the proximal or end position, where the proximal position is the nozzle of the aerosol generating device. The distal position can be a replaceable module.

[0014] This module can be understood as a replaceable accessory for aerosol and flavor generation devices, which can be inserted into or removed from the aerosol generation device at any time, allowing the user to enjoy the aerosol generation device with or without the module in place, and with or without the addition of sensory media. The replaceable module may also include flavor generation articles.

[0015] An air chamber can be understood as a cavity inside a module that holds flavor-generated products.

[0016] An air inlet can be understood as at least one opening on the distal end of an air chamber that provides an entrance for external air to enter the air chamber.

[0017] An air outlet can be understood as at least one channel or channel that provides an outlet for airflow within the air chamber toward the aerosol-generating article. The air outlet may be located at a proximal end of the air chamber, opposite to a distal end.

[0018] An opening can be understood as an orifice in the circumference of an air chamber, allowing fluid to flow from the air chamber to the outside of the module at a location away from the air outlet. The opening may extend radially from the air chamber.

[0019] A holding unit can be understood as a device for holding a flavor-generating article within an air chamber. The holding unit allows for easy replacement of the flavor-generating article. The holding unit can be configured such that airflow within the air chamber can flow around the flavor-generating article from all sides.

[0020] In one embodiment, the air chamber includes a turbulence generating unit arranged between the air inlet and the opening to at least partially obstruct the airflow, thereby generating turbulent airflow within the air chamber. This can be understood as the turbulence generating unit obstructing the main axial airflow and causing the airflow to pass upstream and downstream of the turbulence generating unit, thereby generating turbulent airflow radially near the opening. Thus, a small portion of the airflow exits the air chamber through the opening, while the main flow exits the air chamber through the air outlet toward the aerosol-generating article. In other words, the airflow can be divided into a first portion and a second portion. The first portion corresponds to the main flow configured to be delivered to the user's mouth, while the second portion corresponds to the smaller portion configured to be delivered to the user's nose. Therefore, the module of the present invention has very good performance in terms of aroma and flavor. The turbulence generating unit can be a lateral obstruction, such as a plate.

[0021] In one embodiment, the holding unit includes a distal grid element and a proximal grid element for holding the flavor-generating article between the distal and proximal grid elements. The distal grid element holds the base of the flavor-generating article, while the proximal grid element holds the top of the flavor-generating article. This can be understood as the flavor-generating article having at least a partial holding element. Therefore, airflow inside the air chamber passes through the flavor-generating device, thus supplying the natural evaporation of the sensory medium. Furthermore, the holding unit allows for easy replacement of the flavor-generating article. Thus, the user can quickly change the flavor-generating article at any time for use with different aromas, thus allowing for use with the same type of aerosol-generating article or different types of aerosol-generating articles. In other words, the user can combine a range of aromas, multiple aromas, and flavors as needed, allowing for individual blending in a unique and customized manner to select the most pleasant combination for their aromatherapy experience based on their palate.

[0022] In one implementation, the turbulence generating unit has less penetration into the airflow than the near-side grid element. The turbulence generating unit impedes airflow between the air inlet and the air outlet or opening. This can be understood as the turbulence generating unit having greater flow resistance than the near-side grid for airflow from the air inlet. In other words, airflow can pass through the grid element more easily than through the turbulence generating unit. Therefore, the airflow from the air inlet impacts the turbulence generating unit and is deflected by it, causing the turbulent airflow to primarily pass through the near-side grid element.

[0023] In one embodiment, at least one opening is a nasal airflow passage configured to be accessible to the user's nose. The nasal airflow passage can be understood as an orifice in the outer surface of the air chamber that allows fluid to flow from the air chamber to the outside of the module at a location immediately adjacent to the user's nose. This can be understood as the nasal airflow passage being arranged distal to an air outlet configured to connect to the aerosol-generating article. As a result, the airflow is provided not only to the user's mouth by the mouthpiece of the aerosol-generating article but also by the nasal airflow passage leading to the user's nose. Because the airflow can reach or be delivered to the user's nose in addition to their mouth, the user is able to smell the aroma and taste the flavors mixed in the airflow.

[0024] In one embodiment, at least one opening has a diameter from 0.007 mm to 0.09 mm. At least one opening may have a diameter from 0.009 mm to 0.07 mm. At least one opening may have a diameter from 0.01 mm to 0.05 mm. In other words, at least one opening is large enough to allow a second portion of the airflow to exit the module, and small enough that no contaminants can enter the module through the at least one opening.

[0025] In one embodiment, the air chamber includes multiple openings. Multiple openings can be understood as more than one, preferably several openings. The multiple openings can include 7 to 37 openings. The multiple openings can be arranged in an ordered group. The multiple openings can be distributed along the circumference of the air chamber. The multiple openings can be arranged in the shape of at least one ring around the circumference of the air chamber. The multiple openings can be arranged in a spiral shape around the circumference of the air chamber. The distance between adjacent openings can be continuous or discontinuous. Each opening can have a circular shape or cross-section, but other shapes are also possible. The openings can have the same or different shapes and sizes. The multiple openings can be multiple nasal airflow channels.

[0026] In one embodiment, the air chamber includes a baffle skirt movable relative to at least one opening to close at least one opening. In other words, the baffle skirt prevents a second portion of the airflow from exiting through the opening, thereby blocking or interrupting the release of aroma through the opening. This allows the module / aerosol and flavor generating device to be stored in a pocket when not in use. This also allows for the conservation of at least a portion of the flavor generating device, enabling it to last longer.

[0027] In one embodiment, the replaceable module further includes at least one module base and a module cap that can be attached thereto, together forming a module housing. This can be understood as the module base being removable from the module cap. This allows the user to easily and quickly replace flavor-generating articles.

[0028] In one embodiment, the replaceable module also includes an internal component. The internal component is rotatable relative to the nasal airflow passages to selectively block one or more of a plurality of nasal airflow passages. The internal component can be arranged within an air chamber. In other words, the opening can be blocked from inside the air chamber by the internal component. This arrangement produces a compact device.

[0029] In another embodiment, the internal components may be arranged outside the air chamber and module housing. In other words, the openings can be blocked from the outside of the module by the internal components. This arrangement can produce a device that is easy to maintain and looks interesting.

[0030] In one embodiment, the internal member can be rotated by gravity such that the internal member covers at least one of the openings in the lower portion of the module and opens at least another opening in the upper portion of the module, wherein the upper portion of the module is closer to the user's nose when the device is in use.

[0031] This can be understood as follows: the internal component can rotate relative to the module and the openings by means of gravity, such that the internal component covers at least one of the openings in the lower portion of the module, and opens at least another opening in the upper portion of the module. The left opening in the upper portion of the module can then be configured to allow the user's nose to approach it. In other words, the movable internal component can block at least one opening and leave the other openings open. Furthermore, because the movable internal component moves by means of gravity, it can leave an opening in the upper portion of the air chamber, thus enabling the user's nose to automatically approach it.

[0032] This allows for a reduction in the portion of the flavor airflow allocated to the user's nose and a maximum allocation to the mouth. In other words, flow without aroma or flavor might be "wasted" on an opening located on the opposite side of the user's nose and therefore inaccessible to the nose. Furthermore, the movable internal components allow this function to operate independently of the user's orientation of the module, as the internal components automatically rotate to the correct position by selectively blocking the opening on the side of the module opposite the user's nose using gravity.

[0033] In one embodiment, the internal components may be arranged in radial recesses relative to the module. These radial recesses may be located inside or outside the module and air chamber. The radial recesses allow for good guidance of the movable internal components relative to the module.

[0034] In one embodiment, internal components may be arranged in tracks relative to the module. The tracks may be located inside or outside the module and air chamber. The tracks may be arranged in recesses or directly on the module. The tracks may allow for further improved guidance of the movable internal components relative to the module housing.

[0035] In one embodiment, the internal component may be formed as an interrupted ring comprising a ring body and at least a partial interruption of the ring body. This results in the interrupted ring being lighter at the interruption position than at the position of the ring body, meaning that the internal component in the form of an interrupted ring can automatically rotate relative to the module by gravity to a position where the interruption is located on the top side of the aerosol and flavor generating device accessible to the user's nose. This interruption may further allow opening of at least one of the openings on the upper part of the module that is accessible to the nose. The ring body may block other openings. Therefore, regardless of the user's orientation towards the aerosol and flavor generating device, the aroma stream is not "wasted" on openings inaccessible to the nose.

[0036] In another embodiment, the internal component may include two leg portions and a central portion. The central portion may be arranged between the two leg portions. The central portion may be configured to be heavier than each leg portion, such that the central portion can move to the lower portion of the module by means of gravity. Different component materials, different thicknesses, dense and hollow constructions, etc., can achieve weight differences. The weight difference between the leg portions and the central portion may result in the fact that the internal component can automatically rotate relative to the module by means of gravity until the central portion is in a downward orientation. The central portion may allow blocking at least one opening on the lower portion of the module that is away from the nose. An interruption in the leg portions or portions thereof, or between the leg portions, may open another opening. Thus, the aroma flow is confined to the opening accessible to the nose, and this works independently of the user's orientation of the aerosol and flavor generating device.

[0037] In one embodiment, the replaceable module may further include at least one electrical contact disposed on the surface of the replaceable module. The internal component may include a conductive portion to shut off the circuit when the rotatable internal component is in a position where the conductive portion contacts the electrical contact disposed on the module. For example, the conductive portion may be located in the central portion of the internal component.

[0038] In one embodiment, the rotatable internal component is positioned to contact an electrical contact disposed on the surface of the module.

[0039] In one embodiment, the replaceable module may include at least one lighting unit configured to be powered when the circuit is off. The lighting unit may be an LED, a screen, etc. The lighting unit provides light that can be sensed by the user. In this embodiment, the light can enhance the user's overall experience. For example, if the aroma and flavor are cooling, such as mint, menthol, or eucalyptus, the light may be cool light, such as blue light. This lighting can be used to enhance the user's perception of the cooling aroma and flavor of the aerosol in terms of taste and smell. In another example, if the aroma and flavor are citrus, the light may be yellow or orange light. This light can enhance the user's perception of the citrus aroma and flavor in terms of taste and smell. The lighting can be set by the user or can be set according to the aroma and flavor of the aerosol.

[0040] In another embodiment, the lighting unit may be configured to signal the operating conditions of the aerosol and flavor generating device, the orientation of the aerosol and flavor generating device relative to the ground and / or relative to the user, the taste of the aerosol or sensory medium, battery life, number of puffs, remaining sensory medium volume, time, remaining time, malfunction of the aerosol and flavor generating device, device status, aerosol temperature, and / or similar conditions. In one embodiment, the lighting unit may be supplied with electrical power to be switched on based on and in response to the position of the movable internal components. Thus, the lighting unit may be switched on based on and in response to the position of the module or aerosol and flavor generating device relative to the ground. This can be used to signal to the user, for example, that it is preferable to maintain the position.

[0041] In one embodiment, there may be more than one lighting unit, and either more than one electrical contact may be present at the module, or more than one conductive portion may be present at the rotatable internal component. Therefore, the circuit between the electrical contact of the module and the conductive portion of the rotatable internal component can be closed in more than one position. This produces the effect that one of the more than one lighting unit is selectively supplied with electrical energy and thus turned on depending on and in response to the position of the movable internal component. This can be used to illuminate the lighting unit facing the user's eyes while keeping others off to save energy.

[0042] In one embodiment, the lighting unit may be arranged at a movable internal member. The lighting unit may be arranged on the front of the internal member facing the mouthpiece. The lighting unit may be arranged adjacent to the interruption portion at the annular body of the internal member. The lighting unit may be arranged adjacent to the free end of the leg portion at one of the leg portions of the internal member.

[0043] As a substitute or supplement to the electrical contacts at the aforementioned modules and the conductive parts at the internal components, the illumination of the illumination unit (first illumination unit) can be controlled by the control unit of the aerosol and flavor generation device based on the position data of the internal components.

[0044] In one embodiment, the replaceable module may include at least one other lighting unit (a second lighting unit). The illumination of one of the two lighting units may be controlled by a control unit based on position data of the internal components, wherein the one lighting unit is further from the ground than the other. This means that in the case of more than one lighting unit, this can be used to illuminate only a predetermined lighting unit, such as the one facing the user's eyes, while keeping others off to conserve energy. The position data of the internal components may be provided by a gyroscope sensor configured to be included in the aerosol and flavor generation device.

[0045] In one implementation, the color of the lighting can be selected by the user.

[0046] In one embodiment, the replaceable module may include a color unit configured to control the color of the lighting. This can be a supplement to or alternative to the user-selected features described above. Control of the lighting color may be based on, for example, the type of aerosol generating matrix of the flavor generating article used in the module or aerosol and flavor generating apparatus.

[0047] In one embodiment, the replaceable module may include a rotor element. The rotor element may be arranged within an air chamber. The rotor element may rotate relative to the module. The rotor element may be configured to radially deliver a portion of the aroma or flavor stream in the direction of the opening. This can be achieved by forming or designing the rotor blades and / or the outer portions of the rotor blades of the rotor element to radially deliver a portion of the aroma stream in the direction of the opening. Therefore, delivering the aroma or flavor stream to the opening is more efficient.

[0048] The rotor elements can be arranged on a rotor shaft extending longitudinally along the air chamber. The rotor shaft can extend along the central axis of the air chamber.

[0049] The rotor element can be configured to rotate by the user's suction. This is very energy-efficient because it does not require an additional energy supply, such as a motor.

[0050] The rotor element can also be configured to rotate by means of a motor. The motor can be an electric motor, etc. The motor can achieve a stronger aerosol flow.

[0051] According to another aspect of the invention, a heating system for an aerosol and flavor generation apparatus is provided. The heating system includes a replaceable module and a heating unit for heating an aerosol generation article. The replaceable module is reversibly connected to the heating unit. An air outlet of the replaceable module is configured to be connected to the aerosol generation article. This can be understood as the module releasing a flavor gas stream toward the heating unit and the aerosol generation article through the air outlet. The heating unit is configured to provide an aerosol generation region, wherein an aerosol-forming matrix of the aerosol generation article is heated to generate an aerosol. The generated aerosol mixes with flavor air, thereby providing additional fresh flavor within the aerosol generation region. The heating unit is reversibly connectable to a power supply unit (e.g., a battery pack).

[0052] In one embodiment, the heating unit includes an induction heating element to be inserted into the aerosol generating article. This can be understood as the aerosol generating article incorporating a sensor within it. The heating system also includes an induction coil configured to at least partially receive the aerosol generating device. Thus, the aerosol generating region can be based on the aerosol generating article and the heat generated by induction via a sensor within the aerosol generating article. This arrangement can produce a compact device. The induction heating element can be in the shape of a flat, thin metal element disposed at the center of the induction coil, which is configured to surround the aerosol generating article.

[0053] In another embodiment, the heating unit includes a peripheral heating socket configured to at least partially surround the aerosol-generated article. In other words, the peripheral heating socket can be a conventional heating engine using external resistance heating or external induction heating. This arrangement produces a device that is easy to repair.

[0054] According to another aspect of this disclosure, an aerosol and flavor generation apparatus is provided. The aerosol and flavor generation apparatus includes a heating system and an electrical system as described above. The heating system includes a replaceable module and a heating unit. The electrical system is configured to supply energy to the heating system. The replaceable module is reversibly insertable between the electrical system and the heating system.

[0055] Compared to conventional electrically heated smoking systems, aerosol and flavor generating devices, including replaceable modules as described above, offer superior performance in terms of aroma and flavor. Examples of aroma and flavor aspects or sensory media that can be provided by the flavor generating article include, for example, at least one of rose, mint, menthol, chocolate, vanilla, floral, herbal, or spice flavorings. The aroma and flavor are improved because not only is the aerosol flow provided by the mouthpiece at the mouth end of the aerosol generating article, thus delivering the aerosol to the user's mouth, but also an aerosol flow mixed with the flavor from the flavor generating article is provided. Furthermore, the aroma flow from the flavor generating article can be provided by an opening arranged circumferentially in the air chamber, thus delivering the aroma to the user's nose.

[0056] The airflow through the aerosol and flavor generation device can be understood as follows: the aerosol generation article can be partially inserted into the receiving portion of the aerosol and flavor generation device. Air can be drawn into the aerosol and flavor generation device by the user's inhalation action on the mouthpiece of the aerosol generation article. Air can be drawn into the aerosol and flavor generation device, particularly through at least one air inlet. The air inlet can be in fluid communication with an air chamber inside the module. Therefore, the air drawn into the aerosol and flavor generation device can pass through the air chamber and mix with the volatile sensory medium of the flavor generation article. The drawn-in flavored air can then enter the aerosol forming matrix at the distal end of the aerosol generation article. The drawn-in flavored air can travel through the aerosol forming matrix, which can be heated to generate aerosols, and then travel to the mouthpiece of the aerosol generation article and return to the user.

[0057] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a method for providing airflow via a replaceable module for an aerosol and flavor generation apparatus is also proposed. The method for providing airflow via the replaceable module includes the following steps, not necessarily in this order:

[0058] The replaceable module described above is provided.

[0059] The first portion of the airflow is supplied to the aerosol-generating article via an air outlet connected to the replaceable module, and / or

[0060] The flavor-generating article is maintained by a replaceable module and the second part of the airflow is supplied through at least one opening of the replaceable module.

[0061] Improvements have been made to the aroma and flavor because not only is a pure aerosol stream provided by the mouthpiece of the aerosol-generating product, thus delivering the aerosol to the user's mouth, but also an aerosol stream mixed with the flavor from the flavor-generating product is provided. Furthermore, an aromatic stream from the flavor-generating product is provided by an opening arranged around the circumference of the air chamber, thus delivering the aroma to the user's nose.

[0062] In one embodiment, during user inhalation, a first portion of the airflow is accessible through the user's mouth, and a second portion of the airflow is accessible through the user's nose. During inhalation or inhalation, air is drawn into the air chamber of the active intake module through an air inlet. Inside the air chamber, the air mixes with the volatile sensory media from the flavor-generating article. This generates a turbulent flavor airflow, causing a second portion of the airflow to exit through an opening, while a larger portion of the first portion enters the aerosol-generating article through the air outlet of the air chamber to supply aerosolization. During inhalation, the natural evaporation level of the sensory media of the flavor-generating article is highest (high volume release). This arrangement allows for the efficient delivery of additional and fresh flavor components within the aerosolization zone of the aerosol-generating article. This arrangement can produce a device capable of dynamically delivering flavor according to the user's inhalation intensity. In other words, the stronger the inhalation, the more flavor is preferably released proportionally toward the first portion of the airflow flowing into the aerosol-generating article.

[0063] In one embodiment, when the user is not inhaling, only a portion of the second part of the airflow is provided and accessible to the nose by means of diffusion from the flavor-generating article to the nose. Without inhalation, there is no forced airflow toward the mouthpiece of the aerosol-generating article as during inhalation. Due to the natural evaporation of the sensory medium of the flavor-generating article, aroma release may occur even without a forced airflow of a smaller volume than during inhalation. Between inhalations, since there is no airflow toward the aerosol-generating article, a large amount of flavorful air can remain in the air chamber of the module and then be naturally released through the circumferential opening. Therefore, a moderate volume of aroma release exists between inhalations. Even before consumption, a low volume of aroma release may occur due to the natural evaporation of the sensory medium via the natural airflow through the opening in the module. Since the user may be very sensitive to nasal aromas so close to the nose, the aroma can be immediately sensed and inhaled through the nose even when operating the device only around the mouth / nose area. Alternatively, a no-release state can be provided, in which the opening is completely closed, for example by sliding a baffle skirt or sealing ring on the opening, so that the aroma is not allowed to leave the module through the opening. This state can be useful when the device is not in use, such as when it is stored in a pocket, or when the continuous natural evaporation of the sensory medium is prevented in order to preserve it and prolong its life.

[0064] The following is a non-exhaustive list of non-limiting examples. Any one or more features of these examples may be combined with any one or more features of another example, implementation, or aspect described herein.

[0065] A. A replaceable module for aerosol and flavor generation devices.

[0066] The replaceable module includes an air chamber.

[0067] The air chamber includes at least one air inlet for airflow to enter the air chamber.

[0068] The air chamber includes an air outlet for a first portion of the airflow to exit the air chamber, wherein the air outlet is configured to be connected to the aerosol generating article to guide the first portion of the airflow through the aerosol generating article.

[0069] The air chamber includes at least one opening arranged around its circumference for a second portion of the airflow to exit the air chamber radially.

[0070] The air chamber includes a retaining unit for holding the flavor-generating article between the air inlet and the opening.

[0071] B. The replaceable module according to claim A, wherein the air chamber includes a turbulence generating unit disposed between the air inlet and the opening to at least partially block the airflow, thereby generating turbulent airflow in the air chamber.

[0072] C. The replaceable module according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the holding unit includes a distal grid element and a proximal grid element for holding the flavor-generating article between the distal grid element and the proximal grid element.

[0073] D. The replaceable module according to claims B and C, wherein the turbulence generation unit has less penetration into the airflow than the near-side grid unit.

[0074] E. The replaceable module according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one opening is a nasal airflow passage configured to be accessible by the user's nose.

[0075] F. The replaceable module according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one opening has a diameter from 0.007 mm to 0.09 mm.

[0076] G. The replaceable module according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the air chamber includes a plurality of openings.

[0077] H. The replaceable module according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the air chamber includes a baffle skirt that is movable relative to the at least one opening to close the at least one opening.

[0078] I. The replaceable module according to any one of the preceding claims further includes at least one module base and a module cover that can be attached thereto, which together form a module housing.

[0079] J. The replaceable module according to any one of the preceding claims further includes an internal member disposed within the air chamber, wherein the internal member is rotatable relative to the nasal airflow passages to selectively block one or more of the plurality of nasal airflow passages.

[0080] K. The replaceable module according to the preceding claim, wherein the internal member is rotatable by means of gravity such that the internal member covers at least one of the nasal airflow channels at the lower portion of the module and opens at least another of the nasal airflow channels at the upper portion of the module.

[0081] L. The replaceable module according to claim J or K, wherein the internal component is formed as an interruption ring, the interruption ring comprising a ring body and at least a partial interruption of the ring body.

[0082] M. The replaceable module according to claim J or K, wherein the internal component comprises two leg portions and a central portion, wherein the central portion is disposed between the two leg portions, and wherein the central portion is heavier than each leg portion, such that the central portion can be moved to the lower portion of the mouthpiece body by means of gravity.

[0083] N. The replaceable module according to any one of claims J to M, further comprising at least one electrical contact disposed on the surface of the replaceable module.

[0084] O. The replaceable module according to the preceding claim, wherein the internal component includes a conductive portion to shut off the circuit when the rotatable internal component is in a position where the conductive portion contacts an electrical contact disposed on a surface on the module.

[0085] P. The replaceable module according to any one of the preceding claims further includes at least one lighting unit configured to be supplied with electrical power when the circuit is off.

[0086] Q. The replaceable module according to any one of the preceding claims further includes a rotor element disposed in the air chamber and rotatable relative to the module.

[0087] R. The replaceable module according to any one of the preceding claims further includes a heater.

[0088] S. The replaceable module according to any one of the preceding claims further includes a flavor-generating article.

[0089] T. A heating system for an aerosol and flavor generation apparatus, comprising a replaceable module according to any one of the preceding claims and a heating unit for heating an aerosol generation article, wherein the replaceable module is reversibly connectable to the heating unit, and wherein an air outlet of the replaceable module is configured to be connected to the aerosol generation article.

[0090] U. The heating system according to the preceding claim, wherein the heating unit includes an induction heating element to be inserted into the aerosol-generating article.

[0091] V. The heating system according to claim T, wherein the heating unit includes a peripheral heating socket configured to at least partially surround the aerosol-generated article.

[0092] W. An aerosol and flavor generation apparatus comprising a heating system and an electrical system according to any one of claims T to V, wherein the electrical system is configured to provide energy to the heating system, and wherein a replaceable module is reversibly insertable between the electrical system and the heating system.

[0093] X. A method for providing an airflow via a replaceable module for an aerosol and flavor generation device, comprising:

[0094] - Provide a replaceable module according to any one of claims A to S.

[0095] - A first portion of the airflow is supplied via an aerosol-generating article connected to the air outlet of the replaceable module, and / or

[0096] - A second portion of the airflow is supplied through at least one opening in the replaceable module and through the flavor-generating product held by the replaceable module.

[0097] Y. The method according to the preceding claim, wherein during the user's inhalation, the first portion of the airflow is accessible by the user's mouth, and the second portion of the airflow is accessible by the user's nose.

[0098] Z. The method according to claim X or Y, wherein only a portion of the second part of the airflow is provided and is accessible to the nose by means of diffusion from the flavor-generating article to the nose without the user inhaling. Attached Figure Description

[0099] Several examples will now be described further with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0100] Figure 1 These are schematic and exemplary cross-sectional views of an embodiment of an aerosol and flavor generation apparatus according to the present disclosure and having a replaceable module having a flavor generation article according to the present disclosure.

[0101] Figure 2 These are schematic and exemplary partial cross-sectional views of embodiments of the aerosol and flavor generation apparatus and the replaceable module having flavor generation articles according to the present invention.

[0102] Figure 3a These are schematic and exemplary cross-sectional views of an embodiment of a replaceable module without flavor-generating articles according to this disclosure.

[0103] Figure 3b These are schematic and exemplary cross-sectional views of an embodiment of a replaceable module having flavor-generating articles according to the present disclosure.

[0104] Figure 3c This is a schematic and exemplary exploded diagram of an implementation of a replaceable module for flavor-generating articles.

[0105] Figure 4a These are schematic and exemplary views of an assembled aerosol and flavor generating apparatus without replaceable modules and an aerosol generating article according to the present disclosure.

[0106] Figure 4b These are schematic and exemplary exploded diagrams of embodiments of the aerosol and flavor generation apparatus, replaceable modules, and aerosol generation articles according to the present disclosure.

[0107] Figure 4c These are schematic and exemplary partial assembly diagrams of embodiments of the aerosol and generating apparatus, replaceable modules, and aerosol generating articles according to this disclosure.

[0108] Figure 4d These are schematic and exemplary assembly diagrams of embodiments of the aerosol and flavor generation apparatus, replaceable modules, and aerosol generation articles according to this disclosure.

[0109] Figure 5 This is a schematic flowchart of a method for providing airflow according to this disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0110] Figure 1 An aerosol and flavor generating apparatus 1 according to the present disclosure is shown. The aerosol and flavor generating apparatus 1 includes an electrical system 100, a heating unit 170, and a replaceable flavor module 3.

[0111] The power system 100 includes a power source 15, a control unit 13, and a power charging connection port 16. The power system 100, and thus the control unit 13 and the power source 15, are reversibly connected to the module 3 and thereby to the heating unit 170. The power source 15 includes at least one battery and is configured to provide energy to the heating unit 170.

[0112] The heating unit 170 includes a retainer 11, an induction coil element 17 disposed within the retainer 11, and an induction heating element 4, such as a sensor, in the aerosol generating article 2. The retainer 11 is configured to receive the aerosol generating article 2 having a mouthpiece to be inserted into a user's mouth. A module 3 is reversibly connected to the retainer 11 such that an air outlet 333 is fluidly connected to the aerosol generating article 2. The aerosol generating article 2 is configured to be inserted into the retainer 11 such that the induction heating element 4 is disposed at the center of the induction coil element 17.

[0113] The heating unit 170 is configured to heat the aerosol generating article 2, particularly the aerosol forming matrix of the aerosol generating article 2, in the overlapping area of ​​the heating unit 170 and the aerosol generating article 2, thereby creating the aerosol generating region 7. In this embodiment, the heating unit 170 generates heat through induction via the induction coil element 17 and the induction heating element 4 inside the aerosol generating article 2.

[0114] Figure 2 Another embodiment of the aerosol and flavor generation apparatus 1 according to this disclosure is shown. The aerosol and flavor generation apparatus 1 according to this embodiment does not include a retainer, but instead includes an external heating unit comprising a peripheral heating socket 111 that also serves as a retainer for the aerosol generation article 2. A replaceable module 3 is reversibly connected to the peripheral heating socket 111 such that an air outlet 333 is at least fluidly connected to the aerosol generation article 2. The peripheral heating socket 111 at least partially surrounds the aerosol generation article 2. In use, the peripheral heating socket 111 heats the aerosol forming matrix, for example by resistive heating of the aerosol generation article 2 from an external source. It should be noted that the aerosol and flavor generation apparatus 1 according to this embodiment also includes an electrical system (not shown).

[0115] Figure 1 and Figure 2 The replaceable module 3 includes an air chamber 35 having two air inlets 322 and one air outlet 333. Each air inlet 322 provides an inlet for airflow into the air chamber 35, and the air outlet 333 provides an outlet for airflow toward the aerosol-generating article 2. The air chamber 35 also includes a distal grid element 321, a proximal grid element 332, a turbulence-generating unit 331, and an opening 31. The distal grid element 321 is arranged upstream of the proximal grid element 332 relative to the airflow flowing through the module 3. The grid elements 321 and 332 form a holding unit for holding the flavor-generating article 6 between the distal grid element 321 and the proximal grid element 332. The opening 31 is arranged at the circumference of the air chamber 35 between the proximal grid element 332 and the air outlet 333. The turbulence-generating unit 331 is arranged between the grid element 332 and the opening 31.

[0116] The turbulence generating unit 331 is configured to completely or at least partially block the airflow in the air chamber 35, thereby generating turbulent airflow within the air chamber 35, preferably near the opening 31. The turbulent airflow allows the airflow to be divided into a first portion and a second portion. The first portion corresponds to the main portion of the airflow and flows through the air outlet 333 to the aerosol generating article 2. The second portion corresponds to a small portion of the airflow that exits radially from the air chamber 35 through the opening 31. The opening 31 is configured to provide a nasal airflow passage to the user's nose.

[0117] In use, the airflow from the aerosol and flavor generating device 1 is driven by the user's natural breathing and inhalation. The airflow entering the air chamber 35 through the air inlet 322 mixes with the aroma generated by the volatilization of the sensory medium of the flavor generating article 6. A first portion of the airflow flows to the aerosol generating article 2 through the air outlet 333. In the aerosol generating article 2, the flavor airflow mixes with the aerosol generated by heating the aerosol forming substrate of the aerosol generating article 2. Therefore, the combined airflow 5 inhaled by the user through the mouth comprises a mixture of the flavor of the flavor generating article 6 and the aerosol of the aerosol generating article 2. A second portion of the airflow in the air chamber 35 exits the air chamber 35 radially through the opening 31, which is arranged near the user's nose, preferably below the user's nose. Therefore, the second airflow mixed with the flavor of the flavor generating article 6 can be inhaled through the user's nose.

[0118] In other words, in one embodiment, module 3 is configured to adaptively and dynamically release the aroma / flavor generated by the evaporation of the sensory medium via the flavor-generating article 6 according to the user's natural breathing, allowing for several different intensity modes of the released aroma / flavor. The pre-consumption state corresponds to low-volume release because the aroma release of the flavor-generating article 6 occurs by a natural, rather than forced, airflow exiting the air chamber 35 through opening 31. Since humans are generally very sensitive to olfactory aromas, especially near the nose, the aroma contained in the airflow is inhaled by the user via the nose, even when the aerosol and flavor-generating device 1 are only operated around the mouth / nose area, which typically occurs during the use of the device.

[0119] During consumption, especially during inhalation, a large release is driven by a forced airflow entering the air chamber 35 through the air inlet 322. (See reference...) Figures 3a to 3c As described above, due to the internal arrangement of module 3, turbulent airflow is generated within air chamber 35. This turbulent airflow causes the airflow to partially exit air chamber 35 through opening 31, while the main portion of the airflow exits air chamber 35 towards aerosol-generating article 2 through air outlet 333. Between inhalations, there is a medium-volume release similar to the low-volume release before consumption. However, when the air volume inside the air chamber is higher than the pre-consumption volume, the aroma released by the natural evaporation of the sensory media occurs to a greater extent. Since there is no airflow towards aerosol-generating article 2, the airflow essentially remains within air chamber 35 and is then naturally released via opening 31. During inhalation, there is an increased volume airflow through air chamber 35, and therefore an increased level of evaporation of the sensory media of flavor-generating article 6. Therefore, the second portion of the airflow exiting through opening 31 has a higher volume during inhalation, resulting in a identifiable change in the aroma intensity inhaled via the nose.

[0120] Additionally, a non-release mode may exist. In this mode, the opening 31 can be completely closed if needed by sliding the baffle skirt 34 over it. This mode is preferred when the aerosol and flavor generating device 1 is not in use, such as when stored in a pocket. However, this mode can also be used to prevent the sensory medium from continuously evaporating naturally during consumption, thus preserving it and extending its duration.

[0121] Figure 3a , Figure 3b and Figure 3c A replaceable module 3 according to an embodiment of this disclosure is shown. Figure 3a The replaceable module 3 without flavor-generating product 6 is shown. Figure 3b The replaceable module 3 is shown as being inserted into the flavor-generating product 6. Figure 3c An exploded view of a replaceable module 3 having a flavor-generating article 6 is shown. The replaceable module 3 includes an air chamber 35 having two air inlets 322 and an air outlet 333. Each air inlet 322 provides an inlet for airflow into the air chamber 35, and the air outlet 333 provides an outlet for airflow toward the aerosol-generating article 2 (see [reference]). Figure 1 and Figure 2 The air chamber 35 also includes a distal grid element 321, a proximal grid element 332, a turbulence generating unit 331, and an opening 31. Figure 3b In the process, grid elements 321 and 332 hold the flavor-generating product 6. An opening 31 is arranged around the circumference of the air chamber 35 between the grid element 332 and the air outlet 333. A turbulence generation unit 331 is arranged between the grid element 332 and the opening 31.

[0122] The turbulence generating unit 331 is a flow-blocking element, such as a plate, disc, or gasket. The turbulence generating unit 331 may be solid or at least less porous than the grid element 332, and causes complete or at least partial obstruction of the airflow in the air chamber 35, thereby generating turbulent airflow within the air chamber 35, preferably near the opening 31. The turbulent airflow allows the airflow to be divided into a first portion and a second portion. The first portion corresponds to the main portion of the airflow and flows through the air outlet 333 to the aerosol generating article 2. The second portion corresponds to a small portion of the airflow that exits radially from the air chamber 35 through the opening 31. Several openings 31 are shown, but any number of openings may be provided, preferably 7 to 37 openings 31. The openings 31 are configured to provide a nasal airflow passage to the user's nose. The openings 31 may have a diameter of 0.007 mm to 0.09 mm, preferably 0.009 mm to 0.07 mm, and most preferably 0.01 mm to 0.05 mm.

[0123] The replaceable module 3 according to an embodiment of this disclosure includes a module base 32 and a module cover 33. The module cover 33 is reversibly connected to the module base 32 to form a module housing 300 of the replaceable module 3. Because the module cover 33 is removable from the module base 32, and because the replaceable module 3 is removable from the aerosol and flavor generation device 1, the replaceable module 3 allows for easy access and easy replacement of the flavor generation article 6.

[0124] exist Figure 3c Additionally, a baffle skirt 34 is provided on the outer surface of module 3. The baffle skirt 34 is at least axially movable relative to the opening 31 to close the opening 31, thereby preventing flavored air from leaving the air chamber 35 through the closed opening 31.

[0125] Figure 4a An embodiment of the aerosol and flavor generating apparatus 1 without the replaceable module 3 is shown. In this figure, the electrical system 100 is directly connected to the retainer 11. The retainer has an opening 110 for receiving the aerosol generating article 2. Figure 4b An exploded view of an aerosol and flavor generating apparatus 1 according to the present disclosure is shown, wherein a replaceable module 3 is arranged between the power system 100 and the retainer 11. Figure 4c It shows Figure 4b The aerosol and flavor generating device 1, wherein the replaceable module 3 is connected to the power system 100. Figure 4d It shows Figure 4b and Figure 4c In one embodiment, module 3 is connected to the power system 100 and the retainer 11. Furthermore, the aerosol-generating article 2 is partially housed in the opening 110 of the retainer 11. Therefore, as... Figure 4d The components of the aerosol and flavor generating device 1 and the aerosol generating product 2 shown are ready for use.

[0126] Figure 5 A flowchart illustrating a method for providing airflow via a replaceable module 3 assembled into an aerosol and flavor generating apparatus 1 according to the present disclosure is shown. In a first step 1000, the replaceable module 3 is inserted into the aerosol and flavor generating apparatus 1. In use, airflow is generated via the replaceable module 3 and the aerosol and flavor generating apparatus 1, for example, by the user's inhalation. A first portion of the airflow is supplied to the aerosol generating article 2 through the air outlet 333 of the replaceable module 3 (step 2000), thus accessible to the user's mouth. A second portion of the airflow is supplied through the flavor generating article 6 and exits through the opening 31 of the replaceable module 3 (step 3000). Thus, the second portion of the airflow is accessible to the user's nose.

[0127] 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 maximum and minimum points disclosed, and include any intermediate ranges that may be specifically listed or not listed herein. Thus, in this context, the number A is understood as A ± 20%A. Within this context, the number A can be considered as a value within the general standard error for the measurement of the attribute modified by the number A. In some cases used in the appended claims, the number A may deviate from the percentages listed above, provided that the amount of deviation from A does not materially affect the essential and novel features of the claimed disclosure. Furthermore, all ranges include the maximum and minimum points disclosed, and include any intermediate ranges that may be specifically listed or not listed herein.

[0128] Although illustrative examples of this disclosure have been described above in part with reference to the accompanying drawings, it should be understood that this disclosure is not limited to these examples. Variations on the disclosed examples can be understood and implemented by those skilled in the art from a study of the drawings, description, and appended claims.

[0129] In the claims, any reference marks enclosed in parentheses should not be construed as limiting the scope of the claims. The term "comprising" does not exclude the presence of elements or steps other than those listed in the claims. The words "a" or "an" preceding an element do not exclude the presence of a plurality of such elements. This disclosure can be implemented by means of hardware comprising several different elements. In an apparatus claim enumerating several means, several of these means may be embodied by the same item of hardware. The fact that certain means are enumerated in mutually different dependent claims does not imply that a combination of these means cannot be used advantageously.

Claims

1. A replaceable module (3) for an aerosol and flavor generation device (1), The replaceable module (3) includes an air chamber (35). The air chamber (35) includes at least one air inlet (322) for airflow to enter the air chamber (35). The air chamber (35) includes an air outlet (333) for a first portion of the airflow to exit the air chamber (35), wherein the air outlet (333) is configured to connect to the aerosol generating article (2) to guide the first portion of the airflow through the aerosol generating article (2). The air chamber (35) includes at least one opening (31) arranged around its circumference for a second portion of the airflow to exit radially from the air chamber (35). The air chamber (35) includes holding units (321, 332) for holding the flavor-generating article (6) between the air inlet (322) and the opening (31), and The air chamber (35) includes a turbulence generating unit (331) arranged between the air inlet (322) and the opening (31) to at least partially block the airflow during suction, thereby generating turbulent airflow in the air chamber (35) near the opening (31).

2. The replaceable module (3) according to claim 1 further includes a flavor-generating product (6).

3. The replaceable module (3) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the holding unit (321, 332) includes a distal grid element (321) and a proximal grid element (332) for holding the flavor-generating article (6) between the distal grid element (321) and the proximal grid element (332).

4. The replaceable module (3) according to claim 3, wherein the turbulence generating unit (331) has less penetration into the airflow than the near-side grid element (332).

5. The replaceable module (3) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the at least one opening (31) is a nasal airflow passage configured to be accessible by the user's nose.

6. The replaceable module (3) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the air chamber (35) includes a plurality of openings (31).

7. The replaceable module (3) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the air chamber (35) includes a baffle skirt (34) movable relative to the at least one opening (31) to close the at least one opening (31).

8. A heating system for an aerosol and flavor generation apparatus (1), comprising a replaceable module (3) according to any one of claims 1 to 7 and a heating unit (170) for heating an aerosol generation article (2), The replaceable module (3) is reversibly connected to the heating unit (170), and the air outlet (333) of the replaceable module (3) is configured to be connected to the aerosol generating article (2).

9. The heating system according to claim 8, wherein the heating unit (170) includes an induction heating element (4) to be inserted into the aerosol generating article (2).

10. The heating system of claim 8, wherein the heating unit (170) includes a peripheral heating socket (111) configured to at least partially surround the aerosol-generating article (2).

11. An aerosol and flavor generating apparatus (1) comprising a heating system and an electrical system (100) according to any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein the electrical system (100) is configured to provide energy to the heating system, and wherein the replaceable module (3) is reversibly insertable between the electrical system (100) and the heating system.

12. A method for providing an airflow via a replaceable module (3) for an aerosol and flavor generation device (1), comprising: Provides a replaceable module (3) according to any one of claims 1 to 7. The first portion of the airflow is supplied by the aerosol generating article (2) connected to the air outlet (333) of the replaceable module (3), and / or The second portion of the airflow is supplied through the flavor-generating article (6) held by the replaceable module (3) and through at least one opening (31) of the replaceable module (3).

13. The method of claim 12, wherein during user inhalation, the first portion of the airflow is accessible by the user's mouth, and the second portion of the airflow is accessible by the user's nose.

14. The method according to claim 12 or 13, wherein only a portion of the second portion of the airflow is provided and is accessible to the nose by means of diffusion from the flavor-generating article (6) to the nose without the user inhaling.

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