Aerosol-generating device with flexible membrane comprising an opening

Abstract

The present invention relates to an aerosol-generating device comprising a cavity for receiving an aerosol-generating article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate, and a flexible membrane arranged at an upstream end of the cavity, the flexible membrane comprising an opening in fluid communication with the cavity. Such an aerosol-generating device can be easily cleaned by pushing the cleaning tool through the opening of the flexible membrane.

Description

[0001] This invention relates to an aerosol generating apparatus. The invention further relates to a kit including the aerosol generating apparatus and a cleaning tool, and an aerosol generating system including the aerosol generating apparatus, the cleaning tool, and an aerosol generating article. The invention further relates to a method for cleaning the aerosol generating apparatus.

[0002] Aerosol generating devices are known that heat but do not burn the aerosol-forming matrix (such as tobacco) in an aerosol-generating article. Such devices heat the aerosol-forming matrix to a sufficiently high temperature to generate an aerosol for inhalation by a user. These aerosol generating devices typically include a cavity for receiving the aerosol-forming matrix. These devices are typically portable, handheld devices and need to be compact.

[0003] Over time, residues or debris from aerosol-forming articles accumulate in the cavities of aerosol generating devices. In some cases, such residues or debris can impair the function of these devices. These residues or debris in the cavities can also affect the taste experienced by the user during aerosol consumption and cause device blockage. Cleaning the cavities of aerosol generating devices is often time-consuming and complex because the cavities in many such devices are not easily accessible from the outside. Aerosol generating devices are known to include openings with doors for access to the cavities. These doors must be opened and closed by the user, increasing the time required to clean the aerosol generating device. Such doors can be mechanical mechanisms involving springs or other biasing mechanisms. Such doors may break due to prolonged use. Cleaning procedures may be particularly inefficient for any residue deposited at the upstream or bottom ends of the cavity.

[0004] It is desirable to provide an aerosol generating apparatus that can be easily cleaned. Furthermore, it is desirable to provide an aerosol generating apparatus in which debris or residue deposited in the cavity of the apparatus can be easily removed. Additionally, it is desirable to provide an aerosol generating apparatus whose cavity is easily accessible. It is also desirable to provide an aerosol generating apparatus in which the upstream portion of the cavity for receiving the aerosol-generated article can be easily cleaned.

[0005] According to one embodiment of the present invention, an aerosol generating apparatus is provided, the aerosol generating apparatus including a cavity for receiving an aerosol-generated article comprising an aerosol-forming matrix. A flexible membrane may be disposed at the upstream end of the cavity. The flexible membrane may include an opening in fluid communication with the cavity.

[0006] According to another embodiment of the present invention, an aerosol generating apparatus is provided, the aerosol generating apparatus comprising a cavity for receiving an aerosol-generated article comprising an aerosol-forming matrix. A flexible membrane is disposed at the upstream end of the cavity. The flexible membrane includes an opening in fluid communication with the cavity.

[0007] The openings in the flexible membrane allow cleaning tools to be easily pushed through. When pressure is applied using the cleaning tool, the openings can widen due to the flexible membrane. This allows the cleaning tool to pass through the openings. When the cleaning tool is pulled back through the openings, it returns to its original shape and size when the pressure is stopped, due to the flexible nature of the membrane. The flexible membrane can also be rigid enough to prevent any external residue from entering the cavity of the aerosol generating device. The flexible membrane can also retain any residue in the cavity before cleaning.

[0008] The opening can have any geometry suitable for cleaning. It can be one or more of the following shapes: slit, cross, cut, or hole. All these geometries can expand as a cleaning tool is pushed through.

[0009] The opening may have a geometry that allows it to fluidly communicate with the cavity. The opening in the flexible membrane may be adjacent to the cavity. The opening may not provide fluid communication through the flexible membrane. Specifically, the opening may be a slit or cut formed in the flexible membrane that does not provide fluid communication through it. In this case, an opening large enough for the cleaning tool to pass through will only be formed when pressure is applied to the opening in the flexible membrane.

[0010] The opening can be partially or completely closed in the absence of any external pressure applied to it. This allows the flexible membrane to prevent any debris from leaving the device without cleaning. The partially or completely closed opening can be opened when pressure is applied using, for example, a cleaning tool. When pressure is applied to the flexible membrane, it allows the opening to open and widen.

[0011] The cavity may have a central longitudinal cavity axis. The opening may be arranged at least partially on the central longitudinal cavity axis.

[0012] This simplifies cleaning the cavity by pushing the cleaning tool through the opening. Since the opening can be at least partially aligned with the central longitudinal cavity axis, long, slender cleaning tools can be pushed through the opening particularly easily by inserting the cleaning tool into the cavity along the central longitudinal cavity axis, applying force, and pushing the cleaning tool through the opening, or by pushing the cleaning tool into the cavity from the upstream end of the cavity through the opening from outside the cavity. The central longitudinal cavity axis also allows the cleaning tool to be centered within the cavity along the central longitudinal cavity axis. This prevents any damage to the cavity from the cleaning tool when brushing along its periphery.

[0013] The aerosol generating device may include a central longitudinal device axis. This central longitudinal device axis may be offset from the central longitudinal cavity axis. This allows the cavity to be spaced apart from other components of the aerosol generating device, such as circuitry or other electronic components. The cavity may also be spaced apart from the power supply of the aerosol generating device. This ensures that any airflow path through the cavity does not pass through the circuitry or other electronic components of the aerosol generating device. Similarly, the airflow path may be directed to bypass the power supply of the aerosol generating device. This can improve the lifespan of the aerosol generating device. Alternatively, the central longitudinal cavity axis may coincide with the central longitudinal device axis.

[0014] The flexible membrane may include a concave portion that protrudes toward the interior of the cavity.

[0015] This ensures that any debris formed in the cavity does not deposit in the center of the concave portion of the flexible membrane. Debris may deposit at the edges of the concave portion, which do not bulge towards the interior of the cavity or only slightly protrude. This allows the device to be easily cleaned by pushing the cleaning tool through the opening.

[0016] The opening can be formed in a concave portion of the flexible membrane. Specifically, the opening can be formed in the concave portion of the flexible membrane that protrudes furthest within the cavity. This ensures that any debris formed in the cavity does not deposit on the opening, but rather at the periphery of the concave portion of the flexible membrane. This ensures that the opening is not blocked by any debris.

[0017] The opening can be configured to serve as an air inlet for the aerosol generating device. The opening can be an opening at the uppermost part of the aerosol generating device, allowing air to enter the aerosol generating device. The opening can provide sufficient air to enter the cavity without significantly increasing the suction resistance of the aerosol generating device.

[0018] As used herein, the terms "upstream" and "downstream" are used to describe the relative position of a component, or portion of a component, of an aerosol generating device relative to the direction in which air flows through the aerosol generating device along the airflow path during use of the aerosol generating device. An aerosol generating device according to the invention includes a proximal end through which aerosols exit the device in use. The proximal end of the aerosol generating device may also be referred to as an inlet end or a downstream end. The inlet end is downstream of the distal end. The inlet end may include a mouthpiece. The distal end of the aerosol generating device may also be referred to as an upstream end. Components, or portions of components, of an aerosol generating device may be described as upstream or downstream of each other based on their relative position to the airflow path through the aerosol generating device.

[0019] If the opening serves as an air inlet for the aerosol generating device, it may be particularly advantageous if the opening is formed within a concave portion of the flexible membrane. Specifically, the opening can be formed in the concave portion that protrudes furthest within the cavity. This ensures that the opening, acting as an air inlet, is not blocked by any debris. The opening can serve as the sole air inlet for the aerosol generating device. Conversely, any debris can be collected away from the opening at the periphery of the concave portion.

[0020] The flexible membrane may include convex portions. These convex portions protrude outward from the interior of the cavity. The convex portions are capable of collecting any debris formed in the cavity. An opening may be formed in one of the convex portions of the flexible membrane. The opening may be formed in the convex portion of the flexible membrane that protrudes furthest outward from the interior of the cavity. This ensures that any debris formed in the cavity is collected near the opening. This simplifies cleaning the device by inserting a cleaning tool through the opening and removing debris located near or at the opening. Positioning the opening in the convex portion of the flexible membrane may be particularly advantageous if an additional air inlet exists in the aerosol generating device. In this case, the opening may not serve as the sole air inlet, or may not serve as an air inlet at all.

[0021] The flexible membrane may include flat portions. The entire flexible membrane can be formed as flat portions. This still allows a user to insert a cleaning tool into the opening of the flexible membrane and clean the cavity using the cleaning tool.

[0022] The flexible membrane can be part of the bottom of the cavity. This ensures that the cavity can be easily cleaned by inserting the cleaning tool through the opening in the flexible membrane. The flexible membrane can also form the upstream end of the aerosol generating device. This ensures that any debris collected on the flexible membrane in the cavity can be easily removed from the aerosol generating device through the opening. The flexible membrane can be detachably attached to the aerosol generating device. This allows the flexible membrane to be replaced without discarding the entire aerosol generating device. The flexible membrane can be attached to one or both of the sidewalls or the bottom of the cavity of the aerosol generating device.

[0023] The aerosol generating apparatus may further include a mounting element. The flexible membrane can be mounted in the mounting element. The mounting element provides easy connection between the flexible membrane and the rest of the aerosol generating apparatus. The mounting element can be a mounting frame. This allows the flexible membrane to be easily mounted within the mounting frame, wherein the mounting frame surrounds the flexible membrane. This can provide additional stability and structural integrity to the flexible membrane.

[0024] The flexible membrane can be detachably connected to the upstream end of the cavity. Specifically, the flexible membrane can be detachably connected to the mounting element. This allows the flexible membrane to be replaced without discarding the entire aerosol generating device.

[0025] The mounting element may include a rigid material. This can provide additional stability to the flexible membrane. The mounting element may include one or both of plastics and metals. The mounting frame may include one or more of polycarbonate (PC), a blend of polycarbonate and acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (PC / ABS), polypropylene (such as homopolymer polypropylene), acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene, polyamide, polymethyl methacrylate, polyethersulfone (PESU), or polyphenylene sulfone (PPSU).

[0026] The aerosol generating device may include a housing that includes the cavity. Preferably, the mounting element is made of the same polymer as the housing used for the aerosol generating device.

[0027] The opening may include a slit. The slit may be particularly suitable for opening by pushing a cleaning tool through. The slit may include first and second lips formed in the flexible membrane. When the cleaning tool is pushed through, the first and second lips in the flexible membrane can be easily pushed open.

[0028] The first and second lips may be abutted against each other. Abutting the first and second lips allows for the formation of a slit in the flexible membrane. Such a slit does not form an air inlet for the aerosol generating device. If no pressure is applied to the slit, it can reliably cover the upstream end of the cavity. The slit can retain any debris and deposits formed during the use of the aerosol generating device within the cavity prior to cleaning. When a cleaning tool is used and pressure is applied to the slit, the cleaning tool can be pushed through the slit and any debris can be reliably removed from the cavity.

[0029] The opening can seal the cavity from the upstream portion of the aerosol generating device. This prevents any debris deposited inside the cavity of the aerosol generating device from leaving the device without any cleaning. Specifically, the cut or slit can provide a seal for the cavity.

[0030] In another embodiment, the first and second lips of the slit may be spaced apart from each other. Thus, a slit can be formed with a small opening between the first and second lips. This opening provides an air inlet to allow air to enter the cavity of the aerosol generating device. Furthermore, the opening can facilitate easy opening of the slit when a cleaning tool is pushed through it. The width of the slit can be between 0.05 mm and 0.3 mm, preferably between 0.1 mm and 0.2 mm. These widths provide, on the one hand, some inlets for air to enter the device, but on the other hand, prevent any debris from the cavity of the aerosol generating device from leaking out of the cavity before cleaning.

[0031] At least two openings may be formed in the flexible membrane. These at least two openings may be located at different positions within the flexible membrane to allow any cleaning tool to pass through it. The at least two openings may include intersecting slits. The intersecting slits may be shaped as a cross, or may have a T-shape or any other suitable shape. During any cleaning procedure, cleaning tools may pass particularly easily through the intersecting slits in the flexible membrane.

[0032] The at least two intersecting slits can form a central portion, wherein the two intersecting slits cross each other. Any cleaning tool passing through the flexible membrane can be pushed through the central portion particularly easily. The central portion may include an orifice. The orifice can provide an air inlet for air entering the cavity of the aerosol generating device from the outside. If the slit includes two opposing first and second lips spaced apart from each other, the width of the orifice can be greater than the width of the slit. The diameter of the orifice can be between 0.4 mm and 1.5 mm, preferably between 0.5 mm and 1 mm. This configuration of an orifice having slits including opposing first and second lips spaced apart from each other allows for easy pushing of cleaning tools through. This configuration also provides additional openings for air entering the cavity of the aerosol generating device from the outside.

[0033] Multiple intersecting slits in the central portion of the opening can separate multiple flexible regions within the membrane, which can bend under pressure applied by the cleaning tool. For example, three slits extending from the central portion can define three flexible regions. Similarly, four slits extending from the central portion can create four flexible regions within the flexible membrane, which can bend under pressure from the cleaning tool to allow the cleaning tool to pass through the opening.

[0034] The flexible membrane may include an elastomeric material. The elastomeric material is particularly flexible and capable of returning to its original shape and size after any force applied by the cleaning tool has ceased. The elastomeric material may include one or more of silicone, polyester elastomers, and polyurethane elastomers. The elastomer may be a thermosetting or thermoplastic elastomer, preferably a thermoplastic elastomer.

[0035] Furthermore, the aerosol generating apparatus may include a heating element. The heating element can be used to heat the aerosol generating article received in the cavity to generate an aerosol. The heating element may include one or both of an induction heating element and a resistance heating element. The induction heating element may include an inductor coil disposed around at least a portion of the cavity and connected to a power source. The power source may be configured to provide alternating current to the inductor coil such that, in use, the inductor coil can generate an alternating magnetic field to heat the sensor by generating eddy currents. The sensor may be part of one or both of the aerosol generating apparatus and the aerosol generating article received in the cavity of the aerosol generating apparatus. Preferably, the sensor may be part of either the aerosol generating apparatus or the aerosol generating article.

[0036] The aerosol generating device may include a downstream end comprising an opening for receiving an aerosol-generated article into the cavity. The cavity for the aerosol-generated article may have an elongated shape. This allows the cavity to receive tubular or strip-shaped aerosol-generated articles. A flexible membrane at the upstream end of the cavity may have an elongated, flat shape. A flexible membrane with such a shape is particularly suitable for covering the upstream end of the cavity. Such a membrane also facilitates operation of the aerosol generating device by allowing a user to hold it with their hand over the flexible membrane. The flexible membrane may have a rough surface, allowing the user to hold the aerosol generating device with their hand over it without the risk of the aerosol generating device slipping out of the user's hand. The flexible membrane may provide additional space for other components of the aerosol generating device, such as USB ports and other connectivity ports.

[0037] The aerosol generating device may further include circuitry. The circuitry may include a microprocessor, which may be a programmable microprocessor. The microprocessor may be part of a controller. The circuitry may include additional electronic components. The circuitry may be configured to regulate the power supply to the heating element, particularly to an induction coil or resistive heating element. Power may be continuously supplied to the heating element after the aerosol generating device is activated, or it may be supplied intermittently, such as on a puff-by-puff basis. Power may be supplied to the heating element in the form of current pulses. The circuitry may be configured to monitor the resistance of the heating element and preferably control the power supply to the heating element based on the resistance of the heating element.

[0038] The aerosol generating device may further include a power source, typically a battery, within the body of the device. In one embodiment, the power source is a lithium-ion battery. Alternatively, the power source may be a nickel-metal hydride battery, a nickel-cadmium battery, or a lithium-based battery such as a lithium-cobalt, lithium-iron-phosphate, lithium titanate, or lithium-polymer battery. Alternatively, the power source may be another form of charge storage device, such as a capacitor. The power source may require charging and may have a capacity capable of storing sufficient energy for one or more uses; for example, the power source may have sufficient capacity to continuously generate aerosols for approximately six minutes or multiples of six minutes. In another instance, the power source may have sufficient capacity to provide a predetermined number of discontinuous activations of the suction or heating element.

[0039] The present invention also provides a kit comprising an aerosol generating apparatus as described herein and a cleaning tool for cleaning a cavity of the aerosol generating apparatus. The cleaning tool may have an elongated shape. The elongated shape of the cleaning tool may correspond to the elongated shape of the cavity. This facilitates easy cleaning of the cavity by inserting the cleaning tool into the cavity of the aerosol generating apparatus.

[0040] The cleaning tool may include a cleaning head. The cleaning head may be configured to open the opening when pressure is applied using the cleaning tool. The cleaning head may be configured to be pushed through the opening of the flexible membrane. The cleaning tool may include a central longitudinal section comprising one or both of metal and plastic. The metal may be sufficiently rigid to allow a user to push the cleaning tool through the opening of the flexible membrane. The cleaning tool may include a central longitudinal bar from which bristles project. The longitudinal bar may comprise one or more of metal, plastic, or wood. The bristles may be configured to clean the cavity. The cavity may include sidewalls, and the bristles may be configured to clean the sidewalls of the cavity. The cleaning head of the cleaning tool may include absorbent material configured to absorb any residue located in the cavity. The cleaning head may include cotton as absorbent material.

[0041] The cross-sectional width of the cleaning head can be equal to or less than the width of the opening. The cross-sectional width of the cleaning head can also be equal to or less than the length of the slit formed in the flexible membrane. This allows the cleaning head to easily pass through the opening or the slit.

[0042] The present invention also provides an aerosol generation system, which may include an aerosol generation apparatus as described herein, an aerosol generation article for receiving in the cavity, and a cleaning tool for cleaning the cavity. The aerosol generation article may include an aerosol forming matrix.

[0043] As used herein, the term "aerosol forming matrix" refers to a matrix capable of releasing one or more volatile compounds that can form aerosols. Such volatile compounds can be released by heating the aerosol forming matrix. The aerosol forming matrix may suitably be part of an aerosol-generating article or a smoking article.

[0044] The aerosol forming matrix can be a solid aerosol forming matrix. The aerosol forming matrix can include both solid and liquid components. The aerosol forming matrix can include tobacco-containing materials containing volatile tobacco flavor compounds released from the matrix upon heating. The aerosol forming matrix can also include non-tobacco materials. The aerosol forming matrix can include aerosol forming agents that contribute to the formation of dense and stable aerosols. Suitable aerosol forming agents are known in the art and include, but are not limited to: polyols, such as, for example, triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol, propylene glycol, and glycerol; esters of polyols, such as, for example, glycerol monoacetate, glycerol diacetate, or glycerol triacetate; aliphatic esters of mono-, di-, or polycarboxylic acids, such as, for example, dimethyl dodecanoate and dimethyl tetradecanoate; and combinations thereof.

[0045] Aerosol forming agents may include one or more of glycerol and propylene glycol. Aerosol forming agents may consist of glycerol or propylene glycol, or a combination of glycerol and propylene glycol. Preferred examples of suitable aerosol forming agents are glycerol and propylene glycol.

[0046] Preferably, the amount of aerosol forming agent is between 6% by weight and 20% by weight based on the dry weight of the aerosol forming matrix; more preferably, the amount of aerosol forming agent is between 8% by weight and 18% by weight based on the dry weight of the aerosol forming matrix; and most preferably, the amount of aerosol forming agent is between 10% by weight and 15% by weight based on the dry weight of the aerosol forming matrix. For some embodiments, the target value for the amount of aerosol forming agent is about 13% by weight based on the dry weight of the aerosol forming matrix. Regardless of whether the aerosol forming matrix includes plant leaves or homogenized plant material, the most effective amount of aerosol forming agent will also depend on the aerosol forming matrix. For example, among other factors, the type of matrix will determine the extent to which the aerosol forming agent can promote the release of substances from the aerosol forming matrix.

[0047] For these reasons, the aerosol-forming matrix of the present invention can effectively generate a sufficient amount of aerosol at relatively low temperatures. Temperatures between 150 and 200 degrees Celsius in the heating chamber are sufficient for the aerosol-forming matrix of the present invention to generate a sufficient amount of aerosol, whereas in aerosol-generating devices using tobacco casting leaves, temperatures of approximately 250 degrees Celsius are typically used.

[0048] Preferably, the aerosol-forming matrix comprises shredded filler. In this document, "shredded filler" refers to chopped plant material (particularly leaves), processed stems and ribs, or blends of homogenized plant material, for example, in sheet form using casting or papermaking processes. Shredded filler may also include other post-cut filler tobacco or additives. According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the shredded filler comprises at least 25% plant leaves, more preferably at least 50% plant leaves, even more preferably at least 75% plant leaves, and most preferably at least 90% plant leaves. Preferably, the plant material is one of tobacco, mint, tea, and clove; however, the invention is equally applicable to other plant materials having the ability to release substances that can subsequently form aerosols upon application of heat.

[0049] Preferably, the tobacco plant material includes one or more of flue-cured tobacco, sun-cured tobacco, aromatic tobacco, and filler tobacco. Flue-cured tobacco is tobacco with typically large, light-colored leaves. Throughout the specification, the term "flue-cured tobacco" refers to tobacco that has been cured by curing. Examples of flue-cured tobacco include Chinese flue-cured tobacco, Brazilian flue-cured tobacco, American flue-cured tobacco such as Virginia tobacco, Indian flue-cured tobacco, Tanzanian flue-cured tobacco, or other African flue-cured tobacco. Flue-cured tobacco is characterized by a high sugar-to-nitrogen ratio. From a sensory perspective, flue-cured tobacco is a type of tobacco that, after curing, produces a pungent and invigorating sensation. According to the invention, flue-cured tobacco is tobacco with a reducing sugar content between about 2.5% and about 20% based on the dry weight of the tobacco leaves and a total ammonia content of less than about 0.12% based on the dry weight of the tobacco leaves. Reducing sugars include, for example, glucose or fructose. Total ammonia includes, for example, ammonia and ammonium salts. Sun-cured tobacco is tobacco with typically large, dark-colored leaves. Throughout the specification, the term "sun-cured tobacco" refers to tobacco that has undergone an air-drying process. Additionally, sun-cured tobacco can be fermented. Tobacco primarily used for chewing, snuff, cigars, and pipe blends is also included in this category. These sun-cured tobaccos are typically air-dried and may undergo fermentation. From a sensory perspective, sun-cured tobacco is a type of tobacco that, after roasting, has a dark, cigar-like flavor with a smoky character. Sun-cured tobacco is characterized by a low sugar-to-nitrogen ratio. Examples of sun-cured tobacco include Malawi Ribeye or other African Ribeye, dark-roasted Brazil Galpao, and sun-cured or air-dried Indonesian Kasturi. According to the invention, sun-cured tobacco is tobacco with a reducing sugar content of less than about 5% by dry weight and a total ammonia content of at most about 0.5% by dry weight. Aromatic tobacco is tobacco that often has small, pale leaves. Throughout this specification, the term "aromatic tobacco" is used for other tobaccos with a high content of aromatic compounds (e.g., essential oils). From a sensory perspective, aromatic tobacco is a type of tobacco that, after roasting, has a spicy and aromatic flavor. Examples of aromatic tobaccos are Greek Oriental, Oriental Turkish, semi-Oriental tobaccos, and roasted American Burley, such as Perique, Rustica, American Burley, or Meriland. Filler tobaccos are not specific tobacco types, but encompass tobacco types primarily used to supplement other tobacco types used in blends and do not impart specific characteristic aromas to the final product. Examples of filler tobaccos are the stems, midribs, or stalks of other tobacco types. A specific example could be the dried stalks of the lower stems of Brazilian flue-cured tobacco.

[0050] The shredded filler suitable for use with the present invention can generally be similar to that used in conventional smoking articles. The shred width of the shredded filler is preferably between 0.3 mm and 2.0 mm, more preferably between 0.5 mm and 1.2 mm, and most preferably between 0.6 mm and 0.9 mm. The shred width can play a role in the heat distribution within the matrix portion of the article. Similarly, the shred width can play a role in the suction resistance of the article. Furthermore, the shred width can affect the overall density of the matrix portion.

[0051] The length of the shredded filler is somewhat random, as it will depend on the overall dimensions of the object from which the shreds are cut. However, longer shreds can be cut by conditioning the material before cutting, for example, by controlling the moisture content and overall fineness of the material. Preferably, the length of the shreds is between about 10 mm and about 40 mm before the shreds are formed into matrix segments. Obviously, if the shreds are arranged in matrix segments with a longitudinal extension of less than 40 mm, the final matrix segments may include shreds that are on average shorter than the initial shred length. Preferably, the shred length of the shredded filler is such that about 20% to 60% of the shreds extend along the full length of the matrix portion. This prevents the shreds from easily detaching from the matrix segments.

[0052] As used herein, the term "aerosol-generating article" refers to an article comprising an aerosol-forming matrix capable of releasing volatile compounds that can form aerosols. For example, an aerosol-generating article can be a smoking article that generates aerosols that can be directly inhaled into the lungs of a user through their mouth. The aerosol-generating article can be disposable. The aerosol-generating article may include a matrix portion comprising the aerosol-forming matrix. The matrix portion may have a length between 20 mm and 60 mm, preferably between 12 mm and 16 mm. The diameter of the aerosol-generating article may be between 12 mm and 16 mm, preferably between about 6.5 mm and 7.5 mm, more preferably between about 6.5 mm and 7.3 mm.

[0053] Aerosol-generating articles can be generally cylindrical in shape. Aerosol-generating articles can be generally elongated. Aerosol-generating articles can have a length and a circumference generally perpendicular to said length. Aerosol-generating articles can be generally strip-shaped. Aerosol-forming matrices can be generally cylindrical in shape. Aerosol-forming matrices can be generally elongated. Aerosol-forming matrices can also have a length and a circumference generally perpendicular to said length. Aerosol-forming matrices can be generally strip-shaped.

[0054] In addition to the aerosol forming matrix, the aerosol generating article may further include one or more of the following: a support element located downstream of the aerosol forming matrix, an aerosol cooling element located downstream of the support element, and an outer packaging material surrounding the aerosol forming matrix. The support element and the aerosol cooling element may be arranged in a linear sequence with the aerosol forming matrix. The support element may be adjacent to the aerosol forming matrix.

[0055] A method for cleaning an aerosol generating apparatus as described herein is also provided. The method may include one or both of the following:

[0056] - Insert the cleaning tool into the cavity through the downstream end of the cavity, push the cleaning tool through the opening, and remove the cleaning tool from the cavity, or

[0057] - The cleaning tool is pushed from the upstream end of the aerosol generating device through the opening of the flexible membrane into the cavity, and the cleaning tool is removed from the cavity.

[0058] Pushing the cleaning tool through the opening in the flexible membrane allows debris to be removed from the cavity. No further manual steps are required from the user other than operating the cleaning tool. For example, the method does not require the user to open a door in the upstream section of the aerosol generating device to allow the cleaning tool to pass through. Due to the opening in the flexible membrane, any debris can be easily removed from the cavity as the opening widens when pressure is applied using the cleaning tool.

[0059] Removing the cleaning tool from the cavity may involve pulling it back from the cavity through an opening in the flexible membrane. Thereafter, due to the membrane's flexibility, the opening can return to its original shape and size. The aerosol generating device can be reused after cleaning. When the device is reused, the flexible membrane reliably retains any debris deposited in the cavity within the aerosol generating device.

[0060] The aerosol generating device may include a bottom end face located at the upstream end of the device. A flexible membrane may provide an upstream bottom cover for the aerosol generating device. The upstream bottom cover may cover at least a portion of the bottom end face. The flexible membrane may span an area, for example, corresponding in shape and size to a cross-sectional region of a cavity. The flexible membrane may cover an area including the opening. The flexible membrane may include the opening and an area surrounding the opening. The flexible membrane may span an area larger than the opening. The flexible membrane may span the entire bottom end face of the device. The flexible membrane may span at least about 25%, at least about 50%, at least about 75%, and at least about 80% of the bottom end face of the aerosol generating device.

[0061] The present invention also relates to an aerosol generating apparatus, which may include a cavity for receiving an aerosol-generated article comprising an aerosol-forming matrix. The cavity may have a central longitudinal axis. A flexible membrane may be disposed at an upstream end of the cavity. The flexible membrane may include a slit. The slit may be at least partially disposed on the central longitudinal axis of the cavity.

[0062] The present invention also relates to an aerosol generating apparatus comprising a cavity for receiving an aerosol-generated article comprising an aerosol-forming matrix. The cavity has a central longitudinal axis. A flexible membrane is disposed at the upstream end of the cavity. The flexible membrane includes slits. The slits are at least partially disposed on the central longitudinal axis of the cavity.

[0063] The cut can open when pressure is applied to the flexible membrane as a cleaning tool is pushed through it. Because the cut can be arranged at least partially on the central longitudinal axis of the cavity, the cleaning tool can be inserted into the cavity and pushed through the cut particularly easily.

[0064] After the cleaning tool has been pulled back through the opening, the cut can be restored to its original shape and size due to the flexibility of the membrane.

[0065] The cut can have a linear shape. This allows cleaning tools to be easily pushed through the cut. The cut can include a slit. The slit can include first and second lips formed in the flexible membrane. The first and second lips can be adjacent to each other or spaced apart from each other.

[0066] If the cut includes first and second lips that are adjacent to each other, the cut may not function as an air inlet. In this case, a separate air inlet may exist in the aerosol generating device, which allows air from the outside to enter the cavity.

[0067] The first and second lip edges, which may be spaced apart from each other, can form slits as described herein. More than one slit may exist, and they may also intersect as described herein.

[0068] The features described with respect to one embodiment can also be applied to other embodiments of the invention.

[0069] The invention will be further described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0070] Figure 1A and 1B Cross-sectional views of an aerosol generating apparatus with a flexible membrane according to an embodiment of the present invention are shown before and during a cleaning process;

[0071] Figure 2A and 2B A cross-sectional view of another aerosol generating apparatus with a flexible membrane according to the present invention is shown before and during a cleaning process;

[0072] Figure 3 A perspective view of an aerosol generating apparatus is shown, illustrating the upstream end of the aerosol generating apparatus having the flexible membrane.

[0073] Figure 4 A schematic diagram depicting an embodiment of a flexible membrane including a slit as an opening;

[0074] Figure 5A and 5B Depicting the different slits formed in the flexible membrane; and

[0075] Figure 6A and 6B Depict the different cuts formed in the flexible membrane.

[0076] In the following text, the same reference numerals are used to refer to the same elements in all the accompanying drawings.

[0077] Figure 1A A cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating apparatus 10 is shown. The aerosol generating apparatus includes a cavity 16 for receiving an aerosol-generated article. The cavity 16 is surrounded by a heating element 18, which may be a resistance heating element or an induction heating element. The apparatus 10 includes a downstream end 10A through which the aerosol-generated article can be received in the cavity 16. A flexible membrane 12 is present at an upstream end 10B of the aerosol generating apparatus 10, which includes an opening 14. The flexible membrane 12 includes a concave portion protruding toward the interior of the cavity of the aerosol generating apparatus 10. This causes any debris 24 deposited in the cavity 16 to accumulate at the periphery of the concave portion rather than at or around the opening 14 (see [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 1A (See the arrow in the image). This is advantageous if opening 14 also serves as an air inlet to cavity 16 of aerosol generating device 10. In this case, the concave portion of the membrane can prevent any debris from clogging the opening.

[0078] Figure 1B Show Figure 1AA cross-sectional view of the aerosol generating apparatus 10, wherein a cleaning tool 20 is inserted into the cavity 16 of the apparatus from the downstream end 10A (see arrow 22A, which indicates the insertion direction of the cleaning tool into the cavity). The cleaning tool 20 can also be inserted into the cavity 16 by pushing the cleaning head through the opening 14 from the upstream end 10B of the apparatus in the direction opposite to that indicated by arrow 22A. The cleaning head 20A of the cleaning tool 20 is pushed through the opening 14, and the flexible membrane 12 opens to allow the cleaning tool to pass through the opening. Debris 24 deposited in the cavity 16 is thus removed from the cavity. After the cleaning tool 20 is retracted through the opening 14 of the flexible membrane 12, the opening and the flexible membrane return to their original shape and size, as shown. Figure 1A As shown in the diagram. The cleaned aerosol generating device 10 can then be reused by the user to inhale the aerosol.

[0079] Figure 2A and 2B Depicting the aerosol generating device 10, which is similar to Figure 1A and 1B The device shown. The difference is that, in Figure 2A In the device, the flexible membrane 12 includes a convex portion. The convex portion protrudes outward from the interior of the cavity, and the opening 14 is located in the convex portion that protrudes furthest outward from the interior of the cavity. This causes debris 24 deposited in the cavity to accumulate on or near the opening 14. This is particularly advantageous if other air inlets are present in the aerosol generating device 10 so that the opening 14 does not have to act as an air inlet. If debris 24 accumulates near the opening 14, it can be easily removed by inserting a cleaning tool into the opening. Figure 2B As shown, the cleaning tool 20 can be inserted into the cavity along the central longitudinal axis 16A of the cavity by pushing the cleaning head 20A from the upstream end of the device through the opening 14 in the flexible membrane 12 (the insertion direction of the cleaning tool 20 into the cavity 16 is indicated by arrow 22B). This cleaning procedure can also be used to remove any debris 24 deposited in the cavity 16 from the aerosol generating device 10. The cleaning tool 20 can then be retracted from the cavity 16 by pulling the cleaning tool from the upstream end of the aerosol generating device 10 through the opening 14.

[0080] Figure 1B and 2BThe cleaning procedure described herein requires only the user to operate the cleaning tool 20, without any additional steps such as opening the door in the upstream section of the cavity. Due to the presence of the flexible membrane, there is no need for complex mechanical mechanisms involving springs or other biasing mechanisms to facilitate the opening of the bottom section of the device. Furthermore, the flexible membrane 12 with opening 14 ensures that any debris formed in the cavity does not leave the cavity before cleaning. This also facilitates the operation of the aerosol generating device and prevents any undesirable spillage of debris without a cleaning procedure.

[0081] Figure 3 A perspective view of the aerosol generating device 10 is depicted. The upstream end of the device is clearly visible. The upstream end includes a flexible membrane 12 and an opening 14 comprising two intersecting slits. Additionally, a USB port 13 is present, which can be used to charge a power source present in the aerosol generating device 10. Two arrows, depicted as 22B or 22A, indicate possible insertion directions of a cleaning tool into a cavity (not shown) of the device. Arrow 22B indicates insertion of the cleaning tool into the cavity through opening 14 from the upstream end of the device. Arrow 22A indicates insertion of the cleaning tool from the cavity through opening 14 in the opposite direction. The possible insertion direction of the cleaning tool is along the central longitudinal cavity axis 16A. This central longitudinal cavity axis 16A is offset from the central longitudinal device axis 10C. This allows the airflow path through the cavity to be guided separately from other internal components of the aerosol generating device, such as circuitry or power supply.

[0082] Figure 4 A top view depicting an embodiment of a flexible membrane 12 including slits 14. Slits 14 include a first lip 14A spaced apart from each other and an opposing second lip 14B. The two spaced-apart lips form a slit with a small opening, the slit having a width L2 indicated by reference numeral 14D. Two slits 14 are present, intersecting in a central portion and forming an orifice 14C in the central portion. The orifice has a width D1 indicated by reference numeral 14E, where D1 is greater than the width L2. Thus, a cross-shaped slit is formed. These slits, particularly the orifice 14C, can serve as air inlets for an aerosol generating device. These slits can also be easily opened by pushing a cleaning tool through them. In particular, four different flexible portions 12A, 12B, 12C, and 12D forming the flexible membrane 12 can be easily bent when pressure is applied using a cleaning tool.

[0083] Figure 5A and 5B A top view of two flexible membranes 12 is shown, each of which includes a different slit 14. Figure 5ATwo slits 14 intersect and form a cross shape. Slits 14 include two opposing first lips 14A and second lips 14B, which are spaced apart from each other to form a small opening. Figure 5B The slit 14 in membrane 16 is shown, which forms a three-rayed star shape, such that three separate flexible portions 12A, 12B, and 12C are formed in the flexible membrane 12. These three flexible portions can be easily pushed aside when a cleaning tool is passed through the flexible membrane.

[0084] Figure 6A and 6B A flexible membrane 12 is depicted including slits 14F. These slits 14F include a first lip 14A and a second lip 14B, which are directly adjacent to each other and therefore do not form narrow slit-like openings in the membrane 12. Therefore, these slits increase the suction resistance of the aerosol generating device and do not act as air inlets. In this case, additional air inlets are typically present in the aerosol generating device, allowing air to enter the cavity of the device. However, these slits 14F allow cleaning tools to be pushed through the flexible membrane 12, thereby making it possible to easily clean the cavity of the aerosol generating device.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating apparatus, comprising: A cavity for receiving an aerosol-generating article comprising an aerosol-forming matrix, wherein the aerosol-forming matrix is ​​a solid aerosol-forming matrix, and A flexible membrane is disposed at the upstream end of the cavity, the flexible membrane including an opening in fluid communication with the cavity, wherein the flexible membrane is disposed at the upstream end of the aerosol generating device, and wherein the opening is configured to serve as an air inlet of the aerosol generating device. At least two openings are formed in the flexible membrane, the at least two openings comprising intersecting slits, and the at least two intersecting slits forming a central portion.

2. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the cavity has a central longitudinal cavity axis, and wherein the opening is at least partially arranged on the central longitudinal cavity axis.

3. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the aerosol generating apparatus includes a central longitudinal device axis, and wherein the central longitudinal device axis is offset from the central longitudinal cavity axis.

4. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the flexible membrane includes a concave portion protruding toward the interior of the cavity.

5. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the opening is configured to serve as the sole air inlet of the aerosol generating apparatus.

6. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1 or 3, wherein the flexible membrane includes a convex portion protruding outward from the interior of the cavity.

7. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising a mounting element, wherein the flexible membrane is mounted in the mounting element.

8. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the opening comprises a slit.

9. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the central portion includes an orifice.

10. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the opening is formed in the concave portion of the flexible membrane.

11. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the opening is formed in the convex portion of the flexible membrane.

12. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the mounting element is arranged at the upstream end of the aerosol generating apparatus.

13. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 12, wherein the mounting element is a mounting frame.

14. The aerosol generating apparatus of claim 8, wherein the slit includes a first lip and a second lip formed in the flexible membrane, the first lip and the second lip being adjacent to each other.

15. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the width of the orifice is greater than the width of the slit.

16. A kit comprising an aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims and a cleaning tool for cleaning a cavity of the aerosol generating apparatus.

17. The kit of claim 16, wherein the cleaning tool includes a cleaning head configured to open the opening when pressure is applied using the cleaning tool.

18. The kit of claim 17, wherein the cleaning head is configured to be pushed through the opening of the flexible membrane.

19. An aerosol generation system, comprising: The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 15, For receiving aerosol-generating articles in the cavity, and Cleaning tools used to clean the cavity.

20. A method for cleaning an aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 15, the aerosol generating apparatus comprising a downstream end for receiving the aerosol generating article in the cavity, the method comprising one or two of the following: - Insert the cleaning tool into the cavity through the downstream end and push the cleaning tool through the opening, and remove the cleaning tool from the cavity, or - Push the cleaning tool from the upstream end of the aerosol generating device through the opening of the flexible membrane into the cavity; and Remove the cleaning tool from the cavity.

21. The cleaning method of claim 20, wherein removing the cleaning tool from the cavity comprises: - The cleaning tool is pulled back from the cavity through the opening in the flexible membrane.

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