Cartridge for a rod-shaped aerosol-generating article for use with an induction heated aerosol-generating device

Abstract

This invention relates to a rod-shaped aerosol generating article for use with an induction-heated aerosol generating apparatus. The cylinder includes an evaporation chamber (111) at a distal portion of the cylinder for evaporating an aerosol-forming liquid therein, and a reservoir chamber (112) adjacent to the evaporation chamber for storing the aerosol-forming liquid. The cylinder further includes a liquid transport sensor device (140) configured and arranged to transport the aerosol-forming liquid from the reservoir chamber to the evaporation chamber and, when used with the aerosol generating apparatus, to cause the aerosol-forming liquid to evaporate within the evaporation chamber. The cylinder also includes a vapor transport conduit (120) providing fluid communication of the evaporated aerosol-forming liquid from the evaporation chamber to a region adjacent to the reservoir chamber. The cylinder further includes a diaphragm (160) forming a common wall member of the evaporation chamber and the reservoir chamber, wherein the diaphragm includes at least one filling orifice (169) for filling the reservoir chamber with the aerosol-forming liquid via the evaporation chamber. Additionally, the cylinder includes a rod-shaped distal end cap (150) that forms at least a distal wall member of the evaporation chamber, wherein the distal end cap is not integral with any wall member of the reservoir chamber, and wherein the rod-shaped distal end cap includes at least one rod member (159) at its proximal end that sealably closes at least one filling orifice in the diaphragm. The invention further relates to aerosol generating articles including such cylinders and aerosol generating systems including such articles.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a cylinder for constructing a rod-shaped aerosol generating article for use with an induction-heated aerosol generating apparatus. This disclosure further relates to such articles, and to an aerosol generating system comprising such an aerosol generating article and an aerosol generating apparatus. Background Technology

[0002] Systems for generating inhalable aerosols using an aerosol-forming matrix that releases volatile compounds upon heating via induction heating are generally known from the prior art. To heat the matrix, it can be arranged or brought into thermal proximity or direct physical contact with a sensor that can be inductively heated under the influence of an alternating magnetic field. The sensor and matrix can be assembled together in an aerosol-forming article configured to be received in a corresponding cavity of an aerosol-generating device. The device includes a sensing source for generating an alternating magnetic field within the cavity when the article is received to inductively heat the sensor and thus the matrix. The article may further include a mouthpiece over which a user can inhale so that an airflow passes from the matrix toward the mouthpiece through the article. Thus, when the user inhales during device operation, volatile compounds released from the heated matrix are entrained in the airflow, where they cool and condense to form an aerosol that exits the article at the mouthpiece. Aerosol-generating products and aerosol-generating devices together form an aerosol-generating system, where the products are typically disposable, while the devices are usually reused together with other products.

[0003] According to the specific design of such aerosol generation systems, articles can have a cylindrical rod shape similar to that of a conventional cigarette, with the receptor and matrix arranged at the distal portion, for example, in the distal matrix rod, and the mouthpiece arranged at the proximal portion of the article. Aerosol-generated articles with this visual and tactile similarity to conventional cigarettes are primarily known to include articles comprising a solid aerosol-forming matrix (particularly a tobacco-containing solid aerosol-forming matrix). For technical reasons, systems using other matrices (such as so-called e-liquids) typically employ different designs for the entire system. However, it is desirable to have a similar but simple design for articles employing other aerosol-generating matrices, particularly liquid matrices, in order to expand the range of products compatible with the aforementioned devices configured to receive and inductively heat the rod-shaped article. Summary of the Invention

[0004] According to the present invention, a cylinder for use with an induction-heated aerosol generating apparatus is provided, that is, a cylinder for a rod-shaped aerosol generating article (i.e., for use in a rod-shaped aerosol generating article), wherein the article is configured for use with an induction-heated aerosol generating apparatus. The cylinder includes an evaporation chamber at a distal portion of the cylinder for evaporating an aerosol-forming liquid therein, and a reservoir chamber adjacent to the evaporation chamber for storing the aerosol-forming liquid. The cylinder further includes a liquid transport sensor device configured and arranged to transport the aerosol-forming liquid from the reservoir chamber to the evaporation chamber, and is induction-heated when used with the aerosol generating apparatus to cause the aerosol-forming liquid to evaporate within the evaporation chamber. The cylinder also includes a vapor transport conduit providing fluid communication of the evaporated aerosol-forming liquid from the evaporation chamber to a region adjacent to the reservoir chamber. Additionally, the cylinder includes a distal cap forming at least a distal wall member of the evaporation chamber, wherein the distal cap is not integral with any wall member of the reservoir chamber.

[0005] According to the invention, the above-described design of the cylinder has proven advantageous for the simple and cost-effective manufacture of rod-shaped aerosol-generating articles, which can be readily used with conceived induction-heated aerosol-generating devices for solid matrix consumables, in order to also generate aerosols from liquid matrices. As will be described in further detail below, such articles can be readily achieved, for example, by equipping the cylinder with a cylindrical mouthpiece near the reservoir chamber and subsequently wrapping at least a portion of the mouthpiece and cylinder with packaging to hold the mouthpiece and cylinder together. This results in articles having a rod-like external shape that is similar to or equivalent to conceived articles containing solid matrices, and these articles with rod-like external shapes are therefore suitable for use with conceived aerosol-generating devices. Thus, these devices can be universally used with various types of articles to generate aerosols from various types of aerosol matrices, particularly solid and liquid matrices.

[0006] The arrangement of the evaporation chamber at the distal end of the cylinder, and therefore at the distal end of the article comprising this cylinder, corresponds to the arrangement of the solid matrix and the sensor in the distal matrix rod of the conceived article. Advantageously, this ensures that, when used with an induction-heated aerosol generating device, the evaporation chamber is positioned within the cavity of the device at approximately the same location as the distal matrix rod of the conceived article, that is, at the location where the alternating magnetic field is generated within the cavity. Therefore, articles comprising such a cylinder can be received not only by those existing devices for induction-heated consumables containing a solid aerosol forming matrix, but also easily heated by those devices.

[0007] The use of a distal end cap, which forms at least a distal wall member of the evaporation chamber, advantageously facilitates the manufacture of the cylinder. In particular, it allows for open access to components (such as liquid transport sensor devices) arranged inside the cylinder before the cylinder is finally closed by the distal end cap.

[0008] Preferably, the evaporation chamber can be completely sealed by wall members. Thus, the evaporation chamber is substantially sealed except for a possible air inlet and fluid communication from the evaporation chamber to the adjacent reservoir chamber. Therefore, the cylinder is essentially leak-proof, which proves advantageous for the shelf life of articles in which the cylinder may be part. In particular, if the aerosol-forming liquid eventually leaks from the reservoir chamber into the evaporation chamber, for example during transport from production to sale, the liquid remains in the evaporation chamber. More importantly, the liquid leaking into the evaporation chamber is not wasted but still contributes to aerosol formation, as it will still evaporate during the next heating process. For this purpose, as used herein, the term "chamber" already refers to a substantially sealed chamber. Thus, the reservoir chamber is also substantially sealed except for the fluid communication between the reservoir chamber and the evaporation chamber via a liquid transport sensor device.

[0009] To prevent burns when a user touches an article including the cylinder according to the invention shortly after the heating process, the distal cap is preferably non-inductively heatable. Additionally, this prevents unnecessary dissipation of energy provided by the alternating magnetic field within the distal cap. Therefore, energy dissipation in the liquid delivery sensor device can be enhanced. Thus, the distal cap is preferably made of a non-inductively heatable material, i.e., it is non-conductive and non-magnetic (non-ferromagnetic or non-ferromagnetic). The distal cap can be made of plastic or silicone. Such materials provide suitable sealing performance and are also inexpensive, which is particularly interesting given that the cylinder is preferably used in aerosol-generating articles constructed for single-use only. Preferably, the plastic is thermoplastic, such as PEEK (polyetheretherketone), to provide good thermal stability. The distal cap can be manufactured by injection molding. That is, the distal cap can be an injection-molded distal cap.

[0010] Preferably, any wall components of the evaporation chamber are non-inductively heatable, i.e., made of a non-inductively heatable material. Similarly, any wall components of the evaporation chamber are also non-inductively heatable.

[0011] The distal end cap preferably defines the farthest end of the cylinder. That is, there are no other parts protruding beyond the distal end cap in the distal direction. In particular, the distal end of the cylinder may not have any connectors or coupling devices, such as those for attaching an aerosol generating article comprising such a cylinder to an aerosol generating apparatus. For example, in the case where the rod-shaped cylinder has a cylindrical shape, the cylinder may have a flat distal side at its farthest end.

[0012] To allow air to enter the evaporation chamber for aerosol formation, the evaporation chamber may include at least one air inlet. Preferably, at least one air inlet is formed in the distal end cover. As an example, at least one air inlet may include an air vent through the distal end cover. As another example, at least one air inlet may include an air vent groove formed in a surface of the distal end cover, the surface facing the wall members of the evaporation chamber other than the distal end cover, particularly the circumferential outer wall members of the evaporation chamber.

[0013] According to one example, the distal end cap may be rod-shaped. The rod-shaped distal end cap may include a rod body, at least a portion of which is inserted into the circumferential outer wall member of the evaporation chamber. The rod body may also be fully inserted into the circumferential outer wall member of the evaporation chamber. Typically, the rod body may have a shape corresponding to the internal shape of the evaporation chamber, particularly a cross-sectional shape corresponding to the cross-sectional shape of the evaporation chamber. As used herein, the term "cross-sectional shape" refers to the shape of the rod body or the interior of the evaporation chamber as seen in a cross-section perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the cylinder. Preferably, the rod body is substantially cylindrical or truncated conical. The rod body may include a circumferential collar that provides a sealing fit within the cylinder, particularly against the circumferential outer wall member of the reservoir chamber. That is, the circumferential collar is not inserted into the circumferential outer wall of the evaporation chamber.

[0014] The rod-shaped distal end cap may also include a cover plate. To completely seal the evaporation chamber at the distal end of the cylinder, the cover plate may be inserted into the circumferential outer wall of the evaporation chamber, or may extend radially outward beyond the cross-sectional shape of the interior of the evaporation chamber. In the latter case, the cover plate may further include a protruding collar at the distal end of the circumferential outer wall member adjacent to the evaporation chamber. This is generally also applicable to rod-shaped distal end caps, meaning that rod-shaped distal end caps may include a protruding collar at the distal end of the circumferential outer wall member adjacent to the evaporation chamber.

[0015] The rod-shaped distal end cap may further include (preferably in addition to the cover plate) an insertion portion that is at least partially inserted into the circumferential outer wall member of the evaporation chamber. The insertion portion may include an insertion ring, an insertion tube, an insertion cylinder, an insertion hollow cylinder, multiple insertion segments, multiple insertion pins, or multiple insertion fins. The insertion portion may extend at least partially, particularly from the cover plate (if present), to the diaphragm forming the common wall member of the evaporation chamber and the reservoir chamber. This is generally also applicable to rod-shaped distal end caps, that is, rod-shaped distal end caps may extend at least partially, particularly from the cover plate (if present), to the diaphragm forming the common wall member of the evaporation chamber and the reservoir chamber. In particular, the rod-shaped distal end cap may include at least one, particularly at least two, preferably two, three, or four support legs. At least one support leg may preferably extend from the distal end of the cylinder, particularly from the cover plate (if present), to the diaphragm forming the common wall member of the evaporation chamber and the reservoir chamber. Thus, the rod-shaped distal end cap is secured in place at least proximally against the diaphragm. Having at least two, particularly two, three, or four support legs advantageously provides uniform support for the distal end cap against the diaphragm. Details of the diaphragm will be described further below. In particular, at least one support leg may extend along the inner surface of the circumferential outer wall member of the evaporation chamber. Thus, the aerosol formation process inside the evaporation chamber is only slightly affected.

[0016] Additionally, the rod-shaped distal end cap may include at least one rod member at its proximal end, which sealably closes a filling orifice in the diaphragm, the orifice being used to fill the reservoir chamber with aerosol-forming liquid via the evaporation chamber. Advantageously, this configuration allows the filling orifice to be sealed and the distal end of the evaporation chamber closed in a single step by attaching the rod-shaped distal end cap to the other parts of the cylinder. Preferably, the rod member is arranged at the proximal end of the insertion portion (if present), particularly at the proximal end of at least one support leg (if present). The rod member may be made of the same material as the other parts of the rod-shaped distal end cap, particularly integrally formed with the other parts of the rod-shaped distal end cap.

[0017] According to another example, the distal end cap may be cup-shaped. Specifically, the cup-shaped distal end cap may include the bottom portion of the distal wall member forming the evaporation chamber and the sleeve portion (cup-shaped sidewall) of the circumferential outer wall member forming the evaporation chamber. In this configuration, the evaporation chamber is formed substantially entirely by the distal end cap, except for the proximal wall member. Preferably, the proximal wall member of the evaporation chamber is formed by the aforementioned diaphragm. Forming the circumferential outer wall member and the distal wall member of the evaporation chamber integrally by the cup-shaped distal end cap (i.e., by a single component) advantageously reduces the number of parts to be assembled and thus simplifies the construction and assembly of the cylinder. Furthermore, this configuration provides maximum open access for components (such as liquid transport sensor devices) to be implemented inside the cylinder.

[0018] Typically, the distal end cap can be installed in the cylinder by press fitting, snap-fit, welding, or adhesive bonding. Press fitting or snap-fit ​​allows for particularly simple assembly of the distal end cap. Welding or adhesive bonding ensures a good seal at the joint between the distal end cap and the corresponding connecting component. When the distal end cap is rod-shaped or includes a cover plate (with or without an insert portion), the distal end cap can be (preferably by any of the aforementioned means) installed to the circumferential outer wall member of the evaporation chamber (as the corresponding connecting component), particularly to the distal end of the circumferential outer wall member of the evaporation chamber. When the distal end cap is cup-shaped, the distal end cap can be (preferably by any of the aforementioned means) installed to the diaphragm of the cylinder (as the corresponding connecting component), wherein the diaphragm forms a common wall member of the evaporation chamber and the reservoir chamber, particularly the proximal wall member of the evaporation chamber.

[0019] Similar to the distal end cap, the cylinder may further include a proximal end cap that forms at least the proximal sidewall member of the reservoir chamber. The use of a proximal end cap advantageously facilitates the manufacture of the cylinder, particularly because it allows other parts of the cylinder, such as steam delivery conduits or the outer peripheral sidewalls of the reservoir chamber and evaporation chamber, to be manufactured by extrusion.

[0020] The proximal end cap may include a through-hole through which the proximal portion of the steam delivery conduit passes, is supported, or integrally terminates. This proves advantageous for the stable fixation of the steam delivery conduit within the cylinder and for a proper sealing fit between the steam delivery conduit and the proximal end cap. A proper sealing fit is particularly important where the steam delivery conduit also forms a wall member (inner wall member) of the reservoir chamber. For example, the steam delivery conduit may be formed by an inner tube of the cylinder, which provides fluid communication within its interior from a region adjacent to the reservoir chamber and defines an inner wall member of the reservoir chamber externally. In this configuration, both the proximal end cap and the steam delivery conduit form wall members of the reservoir chamber, and for this reason, the joint between the two components must be sealed to prevent leakage of aerosol-forming liquid. A particularly suitable sealing fit is automatically provided where the proximal end of the steam delivery conduit terminates integrally in the through-hole, that is, where at least a portion (preferably the entire steam delivery conduit) is integrally formed with the proximal end cap.

[0021] As described above, the proximal end cover forms at least one proximal wall member of the reservoir chamber. Specifically, the proximal end cover may only form one proximal wall member of the reservoir chamber. Therefore, the proximal end cover may not be integral with (separate from) any other wall member of the reservoir chamber (such as the circumferential outer wall member or inner wall member of the reservoir chamber). Similarly, particularly when the steam delivery conduit forms a wall member (inner wall member) of the reservoir chamber, the proximal end cover may not be integral with (separate from) the steam delivery conduit. That is, the proximal end cover may be separate from any wall member of the reservoir chamber other than the proximal end wall member. Conversely, in addition to the proximal wall member of the reservoir chamber, the proximal end cover may also form at least one of the circumferential outer wall member or inner wall member of the reservoir chamber. In this configuration, the proximal end cover may correspond to a single-piece body as further described below. Furthermore, the proximal end cover may not be integral with (separate from) any wall member of the evaporation chamber.

[0022] The proximal end cap may include a distal recess forming the distal portion of the through-hole, in which the proximal portion of the steam delivery conduit is supported. The internal cross-section of the distal recess may be larger than, but not the internal cross-section of, the proximal portion of the through-hole. Thus, the distal recess forms an abutment for the proximal portion of the steam delivery conduit, thereby fixing the position of the steam delivery conduit at least in the proximal direction. Furthermore, the internal cross-section of the proximal portion of the through-hole may correspond to the internal cross-section of the steam delivery conduit. Therefore, the airflow path through the steam delivery conduit continues smoothly through the proximal portion of the through-hole, which is advantageous for an undisturbed airflow / aerosol flow through the cylinder. Alternatively, the internal cross-section of the proximal portion of the through-hole may be larger or smaller than the internal cross-section of the steam delivery conduit. Therefore, the airflow path through the cylinder is non-smooth, which may result in a turbulent airflow / aerosol flow. A turbulent airflow / aerosol flow may be required to promote aerosol formation.

[0023] The proximal end cap may include a distal insertion port protruding into the reservoir chamber, wherein the distal insertion port forms the distal portion of a through-hole therein, supporting the proximal portion of the steam delivery conduit. That is, the distal insertion port can be considered as a protrusion extending into the reservoir chamber, the protrusion including a recess forming the distal portion of the through-hole. The internal cross-section of the distal insertion port may be larger than, but not the internal cross-section of, the proximal portion of the through-hole. Thus, as described above with respect to the distal recess, the distal insertion port forms an abutment for the proximal portion of the steam delivery conduit to fix the position of the steam delivery conduit at least in the proximal direction. To provide a substantially smooth airflow passage through the cylinder, the internal cross-section of the proximal portion of the through-hole may correspond to the internal cross-section of the steam delivery conduit. Alternatively, the internal cross-section of the proximal portion of the through-hole may be larger or smaller than the internal cross-section of the steam delivery conduit to promote turbulent airflow / aerosol flow.

[0024] The proximal cap may include at least one filling hole for filling an aerosol-forming liquid into a reservoir chamber. The filling hole in the proximal cap provides convenient access to the interior of the associated chamber for filling. To close at least one filling hole when filling the reservoir chamber with the aerosol-forming liquid, the cylinder may include a proximal bar member that seals at least one filling hole of the proximal cap. In cases where the proximal cap includes more than one filling hole, the proximal bar member is preferably configured to close each of the filling holes. Alternatively, the cylinder may include a separate proximal bar member for each of the filling holes. To have a substantially flat proximal side at the proximal end of the cylinder, the proximal cap may include a proximal recess in which the proximal bar member is received. One or more filling holes may be arranged adjacent to a through-hole of the proximal cap. For example, the proximal cap may include two filling holes arranged laterally on opposite sides of a through-hole. In this configuration, the proximal bar member may include a disc with a protrusion that sealably engages with the filling hole. To allow the aerosol to escape freely from the cylinder in a proximal direction, the proximal bar member may include a through-hole that coincides with the through-hole of the proximal cap. Preferably, the cross-section of the through-hole in the proximal rod member corresponds to the internal cross-section of the steam delivery conduit to provide a smooth airflow path. Alternatively, the cross-section of the through-hole in the proximal rod member may be larger or smaller than the internal cross-section of the steam delivery conduit to promote turbulent airflow / aerosol flow.

[0025] According to one example, the proximal end cap may be rod-shaped. The rod-shaped proximal end cap may include a rod body, at least a portion of which is inserted into the circumferential outer wall member of the reservoir chamber. The rod body may also be fully inserted into the circumferential outer wall member of the reservoir chamber. Typically, the rod body may have a shape, particularly a cross-sectional shape corresponding to the internal shape of the reservoir chamber (particularly corresponding to the cross-sectional shape of the interior of the reservoir chamber). As used herein, the term "cross-sectional shape" refers to the shape of the rod body or the interior of the reservoir chamber as seen in a cross-section perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the cylinder. Preferably, the rod body is substantially cylindrical or truncated conical. The rod body may include a circumferential collar that provides a sealing fit within the cylinder of the proximal end cap, particularly against the circumferential outer wall member of the reservoir chamber. That is, the circumferential collar is not inserted into the circumferential outer wall member of the reservoir chamber.

[0026] The rod-shaped proximal end cap may also include a cover plate. To completely seal the reservoir chamber at the proximal end of the cylinder, the cover plate may be inserted into the circumferential outer wall of the reservoir chamber, or may extend radially outward beyond the cross-sectional shape of the interior of the reservoir chamber. In the latter case, the cover plate may further include a proximal collar adjacent to the proximal front end of the circumferential outer wall member of the reservoir chamber. This is generally also applicable to rod-shaped proximal end caps, that is, rod-shaped proximal end caps may include a proximal collar adjacent to the proximal front end of the circumferential outer wall member of the reservoir chamber.

[0027] The rod-shaped proximal end cap may further include (preferably in addition to the cover plate) an insertion portion that is at least partially inserted into the circumferential outer wall member of the reservoir chamber. The insertion portion may include an insertion ring, an insertion tube, an insertion cylinder, an insertion hollow cylinder, multiple insertion segments, multiple insertion pins, or multiple insertion fins. The insertion portion may extend at least partially, particularly from the cover plate (if present), to the diaphragm forming the common wall member of the evaporator and reservoir chambers. This is generally also applicable to rod-shaped proximal end caps, that is, rod-shaped proximal end caps may extend at least partially, particularly from the cover plate (if present), to the diaphragm forming the common wall member of the evaporator and reservoir chambers. In particular, the rod-shaped proximal end cap may include at least one, particularly at least two, preferably two, three, or four support legs. At least one support leg may preferably extend from the proximal end of the cylinder, particularly from the cover plate (if present), to the diaphragm forming the common wall member of the evaporator and reservoir chambers. Thus, the rod-shaped proximal end cap is secured in place at least in the distal direction against the diaphragm. Having at least two, particularly two, three, or four support legs advantageously provides uniform support for the proximal end cap against the diaphragm. Details of the diaphragm will be described further below. In particular, at least one support leg may extend along the inner surface of the circumferential outer wall member of the reservoir chamber.

[0028] According to another example, the proximal end cap may be cup-shaped. Specifically, the cup-shaped proximal end cap may include a bottom portion of the proximal wall member forming the reservoir chamber and a sleeve portion (cup-shaped sidewall) forming the circumferential outer wall member of the reservoir chamber. In this configuration, the reservoir chamber is formed substantially entirely by the proximal end cap, except for the distal wall member of the evaporation chamber. The distal wall member is preferably formed by the aforementioned diaphragm. Forming the circumferential outer wall member and the proximal wall member of the reservoir chamber integrally from the cup-shaped proximal end cap (i.e., from a single component) advantageously reduces the number of parts to be assembled and thus simplifies the construction and assembly of the cylinder.

[0029] Typically, but particularly when the proximal end cap is separate from any other wall member of the reservoir chamber (not integral with it), the proximal end cap can be installed in the cylinder by press-fit, snap-fit, welding, or adhesive bonding. Press-fit or snap-fit ​​allows for particularly simple assembly of the proximal end cap. Welding or adhesive bonding ensures a good seal at the joint between the proximal end cap and the corresponding connecting element. When the proximal end cap is rod-shaped or includes a cover plate (with or without an insert portion), the proximal end cap can (preferably by any of the foregoing means) be installed to the circumferential outer wall member of the reservoir chamber (as the corresponding connecting element), particularly to the distal end of the circumferential outer wall member of the reservoir chamber. When the proximal end cap is cup-shaped, the proximal end cap can (preferably by any of the foregoing means) be installed to the diaphragm of the cylinder (as the corresponding connecting element), wherein the diaphragm forms a common wall member of the evaporation chamber and the reservoir chamber, particularly the distal wall member of the reservoir chamber.

[0030] Preferably, the proximal end cap is made of a non-inductively heated material, i.e., it is non-conductive and non-magnetic (non-ferromagnetic or non-ferromagnetic). The proximal end cap can be made of plastic or silicone. Such materials provide suitable sealing performance and are also inexpensive, which is particularly interesting given that the cartridge is preferably used in aerosol-generating articles constructed for single-use only. Preferably, the plastic is thermoplastic, such as PEEK (polyetheretherketone), to provide good thermal stability. The proximal end cap can be manufactured by injection molding. That is, the proximal end cap can be an injection-molded proximal end cap.

[0031] The proximal end cap preferably defines the most proximal end of the tube. That is, there are no other parts protruding beyond the proximal end cap in the proximal direction. In particular, the proximal end of the tube may not have any connectors or coupling devices, such as those for attaching the mouthpiece to the tube. For example, when the tube has a cylindrical shape, the tube may have a flat proximal side at its most proximal end.

[0032] The cylinder may include a diaphragm that forms a common wall member of the evaporation chamber and the reservoir chamber. Using a diaphragm that forms a common wall member of the evaporation chamber and the reservoir chamber advantageously reduces the number of parts to be assembled, and thus simplifies the construction and assembly of the cylinder. Preferably, the diaphragm is not integral with (separate from) any other wall member of the evaporation chamber and the reservoir chamber. Advantageously, this facilitates the manufacture of the cylinder, particularly because it allows other parts of the cylinder, such as steam delivery conduits or the outer peripheral sidewalls of the reservoir chamber and the evaporation chamber, to be manufactured by extrusion.

[0033] As used in this article, the term "diaphragm" refers to the separation wall that separates the evaporation chamber from the storage chamber, that is, it separates a portion of the interior of the cylinder into the evaporation chamber and the storage chamber.

[0034] To prevent the energy provided by the alternating magnetic field from being unnecessarily dissipated in the diaphragm, the diaphragm is preferably non-inductively heatable. That is, the diaphragm is preferably made of a non-inductively heatable material, i.e., it is non-conductive and non-magnetic (non-ferromagnetic or non-ferromagnetic). Additionally, this helps reduce the risk of burns when a user touches an article including the cylinder according to the invention shortly after the heating process.

[0035] The diaphragm can be made of plastic or silicone. Such materials offer suitable sealing performance and are also inexpensive, which is particularly interesting given that the diaphragm is preferably used in aerosol-generating articles constructed for single-use only. Preferably, the plastic is thermoplastic, such as PEEK (polyetheretherketone), to provide good thermal stability. The diaphragm can be manufactured by injection molding. That is, the diaphragm can be an injection-molded diaphragm.

[0036] Preferably, the diaphragm includes a through-hole, through which a steam delivery conduit passes at a distal portion or is supported.

[0037] The diaphragm may include a proximal recess forming the proximal portion of the through-hole, within which the steam delivery conduit is supported at its distal end. The internal cross-section of the proximal recess may be larger than, but not the internal cross-section of, the distal portion of the through-hole. Thus, the proximal recess forms an abutment for the distal portion of the steam delivery conduit, thereby fixing the position of the steam delivery conduit at least in the distal direction. Furthermore, the internal cross-section of the distal portion of the through-hole may correspond to the internal cross-section of the steam delivery conduit. Therefore, the airflow path into the steam delivery conduit via the through-hole of the diaphragm can smoothly continue from the evaporation chamber into the steam delivery conduit. This is advantageous for an undisturbed airflow / aerosol flow through the cylinder. Alternatively, the internal cross-section of the distal portion of the through-hole may be larger or smaller than the internal cross-section of the steam delivery conduit. Therefore, the airflow path through the cylinder is non-smooth, which may result in a turbulent airflow / aerosol flow. A turbulent airflow / aerosol flow may be required to promote aerosol formation.

[0038] The diaphragm may include a proximal insertion port protruding into the reservoir chamber, wherein the proximal insertion port forms a proximal portion of a through-hole in which the distal portion of a steam delivery conduit is supported. That is, the proximal insertion port can be considered as a protrusion extending into the reservoir chamber, the protrusion including a recess forming the proximal portion of the through-hole. The internal cross-section of the proximal insertion port may be larger than, but not the internal cross-section of, the distal portion of the through-hole. Thus, as described above with respect to the proximal recess, the proximal insertion port forms an abutment for the distal portion of the steam delivery conduit to fix the position of the steam delivery conduit at least in the distal direction. To provide a substantially smooth airflow passage through the cylinder, the internal cross-section of the distal portion of the through-hole may correspond to the internal cross-section of the steam delivery conduit. Alternatively, the internal cross-section of the distal portion of the through-hole may be larger or smaller than the internal cross-section of the steam delivery conduit to promote turbulent airflow / aerosol flow.

[0039] Preferably, the liquid delivery sensor device passes through the diaphragm. For this purpose, the diaphragm may include one or more feed openings through which the liquid delivery sensor device passes. Preferably, the liquid delivery sensor device is held securely by the diaphragm. Advantageously, the liquid delivery sensor device is secured in the diaphragm prior to assembly of the cylinder to facilitate assembly.

[0040] To prevent unintended leakage of aerosol-forming liquid, the cartridge may include at least one sealing ring disposed in or at a respective feed opening for a diaphragm in one or more feed openings. In particular, at least one sealing ring may be overmolded around a portion of the liquid delivery sensor device. Advantageously, this provides a particularly good seal and facilitates cartridge assembly. Preferably, the liquid delivery sensor device is overmolded with the sealing ring prior to cartridge assembly. Preferably, at least one sealing ring is made of plastic or silicone. Such materials provide suitable sealing performance and are also inexpensive, which is particularly interesting given that the cartridge is preferably used in aerosol-generating articles constructed for single-use only. Preferably, the plastic is thermoplastic, such as PEEK (polyetheretherketone), to provide good thermal stability.

[0041] The diaphragm may include at least one filling hole for filling an aerosol-forming liquid into a reservoir chamber via an evaporation chamber. One or more filling holes may be arranged close to a through-hole of the diaphragm, through which a vapor delivery conduit passes at a distal portion or is supported. For example, the diaphragm may include two filling holes arranged laterally on opposite sides of a through-hole. To close at least one filling hole when filling the reservoir chamber with the aerosol-forming liquid, the cylinder may include a distal rod member that seals at least one filling hole of the diaphragm. Where the diaphragm includes more than one filling hole, the distal rod member is preferably configured to close each of the filling holes. Alternatively, the cylinder may include a separate distal rod member for each of the filling holes. Preferably, the distal rod member is attached to a distal cap of at least the distal wall member forming the evaporation chamber, particularly as an integral part of the distal cap. Details of the distal cap have been further described above. Alternatively, the distal rod member may not be integral with any wall member of the evaporation chamber. Similarly, the distal rod member may not be integral with any wall member of the reservoir chamber. Like the diaphragm itself, the distal rod component can be made of plastic or silicone, especially PEEK (polyether ether ketone), to provide good thermal stability.

[0042] The diaphragm can be installed in the cylinder by press fitting, snap-fit, welding, or adhesive bonding. Press fitting or snap-fit ​​allows for particularly simple assembly of the diaphragm. Welding or adhesive bonding ensures a good seal at the joint between the diaphragm and the corresponding connecting parts. Preferably, the diaphragm is installed in a sleeve that forms at least one of the circumferential outer wall member (or at least a portion thereof) of the evaporator chamber and the circumferential outer wall member (or at least a portion thereof) of the reservoir chamber. Similarly, the diaphragm can be installed in an outer sleeve portion of the single-piece body of the cylinder, which at least forms the circumferential outer wall member of the reservoir chamber and preferably also forms the circumferential outer wall member of the evaporator chamber. Details of the sleeve and the single-piece body will be further described below. It is also possible that the cylinder includes a cup-shaped distal end cap and a cup-shaped proximal end cap, wherein the cup-shaped distal end cap forms the distal wall and circumferential outer wall of the evaporator chamber, and the cup-shaped proximal end cap forms the proximal wall and circumferential outer wall of the reservoir chamber. In this configuration, each cup-shaped end cap is attached to a diaphragm such that the diaphragm holds the distal and proximal cup-shaped end caps together and forms the distal wall of the reservoir chamber and the proximal wall of the evaporation chamber. Details of the distal and proximal cup-shaped end caps have been further described above.

[0043] The diaphragm may include a circumferential collar that provides a sealing fit within the cylinder. Specifically, as described above, the diaphragm may include a circumferential collar that provides a sealing fit between the diaphragm and at least one of the circumferential wall members forming the evaporator chamber and the circumferential wall members forming the reservoir chamber, or between the diaphragm and at least one of the cup-shaped distal end cap and the cup-shaped proximal end cap.

[0044] The cylinder may include a sleeve. The sleeve may form at least one of a circumferential outer wall member (or at least a portion thereof) of an evaporation chamber and a circumferential outer wall member (or at least a portion thereof) of a reservoir chamber. In particular, the sleeve may extend along the entire axial extension of the reservoir chamber and the evaporation chamber, that is, preferably along the entire axial extension of the cylinder.

[0045] The sleeve can have any shape of internal and external cross-section. In particular, the sleeve can have a circular, elliptical, oval, triangular, rectangular, square, hexagonal, or polygonal internal cross-section. Similarly, the sleeve can have a circular, elliptical, oval, triangular, rectangular, square, hexagonal, or polygonal external cross-section.

[0046] The sleeve can be tubular, especially cylindrical sleeves or cylindrical tubes. Tubular sleeves (especially cylindrical sleeves or cylindrical tubes) are particularly easy to manufacture, especially by extrusion. Therefore, the sleeve can be an extruded sleeve.

[0047] Preferably, the sleeve is made of a material that cannot be inductively heated, i.e., it is non-conductive and non-magnetic (non-ferromagnetic or non-ferromagnetic). For example, the sleeve may be made of plastic or silicone. Preferably, the plastic is thermoplastic, such as PEEK (polyetheretherketone), to provide good thermal stability.

[0048] The sleeve can be combined with the distal end cap as described above, which can be installed to the distal end of the sleeve. Similarly, the sleeve can be combined with the proximal end cap as described above, which can be installed to the proximal end of the sleeve. In particular, the distal end cap can be installed to the distal end of the sleeve by press-fit, snap-fit, welding, or adhesive bonding. Similarly, the proximal end cap can be installed to the proximal end of the sleeve by press-fit, snap-fit, welding, or adhesive bonding.

[0049] As described above, in the case where the sleeve forms only the circumferential outer wall member of the evaporation chamber or the circumferential outer wall member of both the evaporation chamber and the storage chamber, the distal end cover is preferably rod-shaped or includes a cover plate (with or without an insertion portion). In this configuration, the distal end cover forms the distal end wall member of the evaporation chamber.

[0050] As described above, when the sleeve only forms the circumferential outer wall component of the reservoir chamber, the distal end cover is preferably cup-shaped. In this configuration, the distal end cover forms both the distal end wall component of the evaporation chamber and the circumferential outer wall component of the evaporation chamber.

[0051] Similarly, as described above, in the case where the sleeve forms only the circumferential outer wall member of the reservoir chamber or the circumferential outer wall member of both the evaporation chamber and the reservoir chamber, the proximal end cover is preferably rod-shaped or includes a cover plate (with or without an insert portion). In this configuration, the proximal end cover forms the proximal end wall member of the reservoir chamber.

[0052] As described above, when the sleeve only forms the circumferential outer wall component of the evaporation chamber, the proximal end cover is preferably cup-shaped. In this configuration, the proximal end cover forms both the proximal end wall component of the reservoir chamber and the circumferential outer wall component of the reservoir chamber.

[0053] Preferably, the sleeve is not integral with the distal end cap (it is separate from it). Similarly, the sleeve is preferably not integral with the proximal end cap (it is separate from it).

[0054] To reduce the number of components to be assembled, the cylinder may comprise a single body comprising a proximal portion and at least one of an outer sleeve portion and an inner tube portion, wherein the outer sleeve portion forms at least a circumferential outer wall member (or at least a portion thereof) of the reservoir chamber, the proximal portion forms a proximal wall member of the reservoir chamber, and the inner tube portion forms a steam delivery conduit (or at least a portion thereof). The inner tube portion is particularly coaxially arranged within the outer sleeve portion and therefore also within the inner wall member of the reservoir chamber. The proximal portion may include a through-hole into which the proximal end of the inner tube portion of the steam delivery conduit (particularly the proximal end of the inner tube portion) opens. Preferably, the single body comprises the proximal portion, and both the outer sleeve portion and the inner tube portion. Advantageously, the outer sleeve portion may also form a circumferential outer wall member (or at least a portion thereof) of the evaporation chamber. Advantageously, such a single body facilitates the construction and assembly of the cylinder. The proximal portion may correspond to the aforementioned proximal end cap forming the proximal wall member of the reservoir chamber.

[0055] Specifically, the outer sleeve portion may extend along the entire axial length of the reservoir chamber. Alternatively, the outer sleeve portion may extend along the entire axial length of both the reservoir chamber and the evaporation chamber, that is, preferably along the entire axial length of the cylinder. The inner tube portion may extend along the entire axial length of the reservoir chamber, particularly between its proximal portion and the diaphragm forming the common wall member of the reservoir chamber and the evaporation chamber. The distal end of the inner tube portion may preferably be attached to the diaphragm by press fitting, snap-fit, welding, or adhesive bonding. Similarly, the diaphragm may preferably be attached to the outer sleeve portion by press fitting, snap-fit, welding, or adhesive bonding. The outer sleeve portion may have an internal cross-section that is circular, elliptical, oval, triangular, rectangular, square, hexagonal, or polygonal; and an external cross-section that is circular, elliptical, oval, triangular, rectangular, square, hexagonal, or polygonal. Similarly, the inner tube portion may have an internal cross-section that is circular, elliptical, oval, triangular, rectangular, square, hexagonal, or polygonal; and an external cross-section that is circular, elliptical, oval, triangular, rectangular, square, hexagonal, or polygonal.

[0056] Preferably, as further described above, the single-piece body is combined with the distal end cap. That is, the single-piece body is not integral with the distal end cap (it is separate from it). The distal end cap can be installed to the distal end of the single-piece body, specifically by press-fitting or snap-fitting, or by welding or by adhesive bonding. As described above, when the outer sleeve portion forms the circumferential outer wall member of both the evaporation chamber and the reservoir chamber, the distal end cap is preferably rod-shaped or includes a cover plate (with or without an insert portion). In this configuration, the distal end cap forms the distal end wall member of the evaporation chamber. As described above, when the outer sleeve portion only forms the circumferential outer wall member of the reservoir chamber, the distal end cap is preferably cup-shaped. In this configuration, the distal end cap forms both the distal end wall member of the evaporation chamber and the circumferential outer wall member of the evaporation chamber. Preferably, the single-piece body is made of a non-inductively heated material, i.e., it is non-conductive and non-magnetic (non-ferromagnetic or non-ferromagnetic). For example, the single-piece body can be made of plastic or silicone. Preferably, the plastic is thermoplastic, such as PEEK (polyetheretherketone), to provide good thermal stability. The single-piece body can be manufactured by injection molding. That is, the single-piece body can be an injection-molded single-piece body.

[0057] Steam delivery conduits may be arranged within the circumferential outer wall members of the reservoir component. In the case where the circumferential outer wall members of the reservoir component, as described above, are formed by a sleeve, the steam delivery conduits may be arranged, in particular, coaxially with respect to the sleeve within the sleeve.

[0058] As described above, the steam delivery conduit preferably forms the inner wall component of the reservoir chamber. Making the steam delivery conduit also form the inner wall component of the reservoir chamber allows for a very compact design of the cylinder. In this configuration, the volume of the reservoir chamber can be substantially annular, particularly a hollow cylinder.

[0059] The steam delivery conduit may extend along the axial length of the reservoir chamber, particularly between the proximal and distal ends of the reservoir chamber, and even more particularly between the proximal end cover (as described above) and the diaphragm forming the common wall member of the reservoir chamber and the evaporation chamber.

[0060] Specifically, the cylinder may include an inner tube forming a steam delivery conduit. Specifically, the inner tube may be similar to the inner tube portion of the aforementioned monolithic body, but separate from any other wall members of the reservoir chamber (such as the proximal end cap and diaphragm). That is, the inner tube is preferably not integral with any wall members of the reservoir chamber other than the circumferential inner wall members of the reservoir chamber.

[0061] The inner tube may extend along the entire axial length of the reservoir chamber, particularly between the proximal end cap and the diaphragm, which forms the common wall member of the reservoir chamber and the evaporation chamber. The distal end of the inner tube may be fitted to the diaphragm, for example, to a proximal recess or proximal insertion port of the diaphragm. Similarly, the proximal end of the inner tube may be fitted to the proximal end cap, for example, to a distal recess or distal insertion port of the proximal end cap. Preferably, the inner tube may be fitted to the diaphragm and the proximal end cap by press fitting, snap-fit, welding, or adhesive bonding.

[0062] Steam delivery conduits (especially the inner tube) can be cylindrical. Cylindrical shapes are particularly easy to manufacture, especially by extrusion. Therefore, steam delivery conduits can be extruded steam delivery conduits. In particular, the inner tube can be an extruded inner tube.

[0063] Steam conveying conduits (especially the inner tube) may have a circular, elliptical, oval, triangular, rectangular, square, hexagonal, or polygonal internal cross-section. Similarly, steam conveying conduits (especially the inner tube) may have a circular, elliptical, oval, triangular, rectangular, square, hexagonal, or polygonal external cross-section.

[0064] Preferably, the steam delivery conduit (particularly the inner tube) is made of a material that cannot be inductively heated, i.e., it is non-conductive and non-magnetic (non-ferromagnetic or non-ferromagnetic). For example, the sleeve may be made of plastic or silicone. Preferably, the plastic is thermoplastic, such as PEEK (polyetheretherketone), to provide good thermal stability.

[0065] As used herein, the term "liquid transport sensor device" refers to a sensor device capable of performing two functions: transporting and heating aerosol-forming liquid. Similarly, a liquid transport sensor device can be considered as an inductively heated liquid conduit. Using such a liquid transport sensor device advantageously reduces the number of required components and thus facilitates the manufacture of the tube, as it avoids having separate devices for transporting and heating aerosol-forming liquid. As used herein, the term "sensor device" refers to a component comprising at least one sensor material capable of converting electromagnetic energy into heat when subjected to an alternating magnetic field. This can result from at least one of hysteresis loss or eddy current induced in the sensor material, depending on the electrical and magnetic properties of the sensor material. In ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic sensor materials, hysteresis loss occurs due to the switching of magnetic domains within the material under the influence of an alternating electromagnetic field. Eddy currents are induced in conductive sensor materials. In the case of conductive ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic sensor materials, heat can be generated due to both eddy currents and hysteresis loss.

[0066] Typically, liquid transport sensor devices can have any shape and configuration suitable for transporting aerosol-forming liquids from the reservoir chamber to the evaporation chamber. In particular, liquid transport sensor devices may include wicking elements. The wicking element may be constructed as stranded wire, stranded material rope, net, mesh tube, several concentric mesh tubes, cloth, material sheet or sufficiently porous foam (or other porous solid), a roll of fine metal mesh or metal foil, fiber or some other arrangement of mesh, or any other geometry suitably sized and configured to implement the wicking action described herein.

[0067] Specifically, the liquid transport sensor device may include a bundle of filaments comprising multiple filaments. Preferably, the bundle is an untwisted bundle. In an untwisted bundle, the filaments preferably extend adjacent to each other along the entire length of the bundle without crossing each other. Similarly, the bundle may include twisted portions, wherein the filaments are twisted. Twisted portions enhance the mechanical stability of the bundle. Using filaments to transport liquids is particularly advantageous because filaments inherently provide capillary action. Furthermore, in a bundle, the capillary action is further enhanced due to the narrow spaces formed between the multiple filaments during bundling. In particular, this applies to parallel arrangements of filaments, since the narrow spaces between the filaments do not vary along the parallel arrangement, thus the capillary action is constant along the parallel arrangement.

[0068] For example, a filament bundle may include a parallel bundle portion extending along its length, wherein multiple filaments may be arranged parallel to each other. The parallel bundle portion may be located at one end portion of the filament bundle or between two end portions of the filament bundle. Alternatively, the parallel bundle portion may extend along the entire length of the filament bundle.

[0069] As another example, the filament bundle may include a first soaking section, a second soaking section, and an intermediate section between the first and second soaking sections. At least along the intermediate section, multiple filaments may be arranged parallel to each other. Regarding the specific construction of the article having a reservoir region and an evaporation region, each of the first and second soaking sections may be at least partially arranged in the reservoir chamber, while the intermediate section may be arranged in the evaporation chamber. Specifically, the filament bundle may be substantially U-shaped, C-shaped, or V-shaped, wherein the first and second soaking sections may each respectively at least partially form U-shaped, C-shaped, or V-shaped arms, and wherein the intermediate section may respectively form U-shaped, C-shaped, or V-shaped bases. That is, the arms of the U-shaped, C-shaped, or V-shaped filament bundle may be at least partially arranged in the reservoir chamber, while the bases of the U-shaped, C-shaped, or V-shaped filament bundle may be arranged in the evaporation chamber.

[0070] The filament bundle can also be a linear filament bundle, that is, a basically straight, unbent or non-curved filament bundle, wherein one end portion of the filament bundle can be arranged in the evaporation chamber and the other end portion of the filament bundle can be arranged in the storage chamber.

[0071] The liquid transport sensor device may include at least a first sensor material. Additionally, the liquid transport sensor device may include a second sensor material. For example, the liquid transport sensor device may include multiple first filaments and multiple second filaments, wherein the multiple first filaments comprise or are made of the first sensor material, and the multiple second filaments comprise or are made of the second sensor material.

[0072] While the first sensor material can be optimized for heat loss and thus for heating efficiency, the second sensor material can be used as a temperature marker. For this purpose, the second sensor material preferably comprises either a ferrimagnetic or ferromagnetic material. Specifically, the second sensor material can be selected such that it has a Curie temperature corresponding to a predefined heating temperature. At its Curie temperature, the magnetic properties of the second sensor material change from ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic to paramagnetic, accompanied by a temporary change in its resistance. Therefore, by monitoring the corresponding change in the current absorbed by the sensing source, it is possible to detect when the second sensor material has reached its Curie temperature, and thus when the predefined heating temperature has been reached.

[0073] Preferably, the cylinder has a basically cylindrical shape. The cylinder may have a circular, elliptical, oval, triangular, rectangular, square, hexagonal, or polygonal external cross-section.

[0074] The cylinder may have a length extension ranging from 20 mm to 90 mm, particularly from 30 mm to 40 mm, for example, 38 mm. Similarly, the cylinder may have a diameter ranging from 4 mm to 12 mm, particularly from 5 mm to 10 mm, for example, 7.5 mm.

[0075] The storage chamber may have a length extension ranging from 10 mm to 60 mm, particularly from 20 mm to 40 mm, such as 25 mm.

[0076] The evaporation chamber may have a length extension ranging from 5 mm to 50 mm, particularly from 10 mm to 30 mm, such as 12 mm, 13 mm, or 15 mm.

[0077] The storage chamber can have a volume ranging from 100 cubic millimeters to 6000 cubic millimeters, particularly from 400 cubic millimeters to 1000 cubic millimeters.

[0078] The evaporation chamber can have a volume ranging from 100 cubic millimeters to 6000 cubic millimeters, particularly between 400 cubic millimeters and 1000 cubic millimeters.

[0079] The reservoir chamber may be filled with at least one liquid aerosol-forming matrix, that is, an aerosol-forming liquid. Alternatively, the reservoir chamber may be empty. In this configuration, the cylinder can be considered as a blank cylinder for manufacturing an aerosol-generating article, which will be filled with the liquid aerosol-forming matrix and may be assembled with other components (e.g., a mouthpiece) to produce the final article. As further mentioned above, the reservoir chamber may be configured such that it can be refilled via a filling hole in the proximal end cap or diaphragm.

[0080] As used herein, the term "aerosol-forming liquid" refers to a liquid capable of releasing volatile compounds that can form aerosols when heated. Aerosol-forming liquids are intended to be heated. Aerosol-forming liquids may contain both solid and liquid aerosol-forming materials or components. Aerosol-forming liquids may include tobacco-containing materials containing volatile tobacco flavor compounds that are released from the liquid upon heating. Alternatively or additionally, aerosol-forming liquids may include non-tobacco materials. Aerosol-forming liquids may also include aerosol-forming agents. Examples of suitable aerosol-forming agents are glycerol and propylene glycol. Aerosol-forming liquids may also include other additives and ingredients, such as nicotine or flavorings. In particular, aerosol-forming liquids may include water, solvents, ethanol, plant extracts, and natural or artificial flavorings. Aerosol-forming liquids may be water-based or oil-based.

[0081] The present invention further relates to a rod-shaped aerosol generating article for use with an induction-heated aerosol generating apparatus. The article includes a cylinder according to the invention and as described herein, wherein an evaporation chamber is arranged at the distal portion of the article.

[0082] As used herein, the term "aerosol generating article" refers to a consumable item intended for use with an induction-heated aerosol generating device, particularly a single-use disposable consumable item. Alternatively, the article may be configured for multiple uses. To this end, as further described above, the reservoir chamber of the article's cylinder may be configured to be refillable. In particular, the article may be configured to be inserted into an induction-heated aerosol generating device. Preferably, the aerosol generating article comprises at least one liquid stored in the reservoir chamber of the cylinder, which is intended to be heated rather than burned, and when heated, releases volatile compounds capable of forming aerosols.

[0083] The article may include a mouthpiece located at the proximal portion of the article. That is, the mouthpiece is preferably arranged adjacent to the cylinder. As used herein, the term "mouthpiece" refers to a portion of the article that can be placed into a user's mouth for direct inhalation of aerosols from the article. Preferably, the mouthpiece is arranged near the reservoir chamber, particularly near the proximal wall member of the reservoir chamber. In particular, the mouthpiece may be adjacent to the reservoir chamber, particularly near the proximal wall member of the reservoir chamber.

[0084] The mouthpiece is in fluid communication with the evaporation chamber via a steam delivery conduit. Preferably, the steam delivery conduit leads directly outward into the fluid passage passing through the mouthpiece. For this purpose, the mouthpiece may include a steam inlet at a distal end and a steam outlet at a proximal end for releasing evaporated liquid from the article. The fluid passage through the mouthpiece extends from the steam inlet to the steam outlet.

[0085] The mouthpiece may include at least one of a cellulose acetate filter section, a hollow cellulose acetate tube, a plastic tube, and an aerosol cooling element. The filter is used to remove unwanted components from the aerosol. The mouthpiece may also include additional materials, such as flavoring materials to be added to the aerosol. The hollow cellulose acetate tube or plastic tube may include a central air passage. The aerosol cooling element allows the aerosol to escape from the vapor delivery conduit of the cartridge for cooling. The aerosol cooling element may be an element with a large surface area and low suction resistance (e.g., 15 mmWG to 20 mmWG).

[0086] The mouthpiece may have a length extension ranging from 3 mm to 15 mm, particularly from 5 mm to 10 mm, such as 7 mm.

[0087] As described above, the article may further include a first wrapping that surrounds the evaporation chamber and the reservoir chamber and preferably (if present) circumferentially wraps around at least the distal portion of the mouthpiece. Advantageously, the wrapping can be used to hold the mouthpiece and the cartridge together. This results in an article having a rod-like external shape, which is similar to or equivalent to a contemplated article containing a solid matrix, and thus is intended for use in compatibility with contemplated aerosol generating devices. In particular, the wrapping can help to give the article visual and tactile similarity to conventional cigarettes. For the same purpose, the article may further include a second wrapping that surrounds the mouthpiece and preferably circumferentially wraps around the proximal portion of the cartridge above the first wrapping. The second wrapping can further increase the visual and tactile similarity to conventional cigarettes. The first and second wrappings (if present) may be paper wrappings. Alternatively, the first and second packages may wrap around the mouthpiece and preferably around the proximal portion of the cartridge, and subsequently the first package wraps around the evaporation chamber and the reservoir chamber and around at least the distal portion of the mouthpiece on top of the second package. The first and second packages may wrap around the mouthpiece and the cartridge such that the free ends of the respective packages overlap each other. Each of the first and second packages may include an adhesive for adhering the free ends of the respective packages to each other.

[0088] Preferably, the article has a basic cylindrical shape. The article sleeve may have a circular, elliptical, oval, triangular, rectangular, square, hexagonal, or polygonal external cross-section.

[0089] The distal wall components of the evaporation chamber, particularly the distal end cover of the cylinder (if present), can define the farthest end of the article.

[0090] The article may have a length extension ranging from 23 mm to 65 mm, particularly from 35 mm to 50 mm, for example, 45 mm.

[0091] Other features and advantages of the aerosol-generating articles according to the invention have been described with respect to the cylinder according to the invention, and are therefore equally applicable.

[0092] According to the present invention, an aerosol generation system is also provided, which includes an aerosol generation article according to the present invention and described herein as an article.

[0093] As used herein, the term "aerosol generating device" describes an electrically operated device capable of interacting with at least one aerosol generating article comprising at least one aerosol-forming liquid, such that an aerosol is generated by inductively heating the aerosol-forming liquid in an evaporation chamber via a sensor device of the article. Preferably, the aerosol generating device is a suction device for generating an aerosol that can be directly inhaled by a user through their mouth. In particular, the aerosol generating device is a handheld aerosol generating device.

[0094] The apparatus may include a receiving cavity for removably receiving at least a portion of an aerosol-generated article, particularly at least a portion of the article's evaporation chamber.

[0095] The aerosol generating apparatus includes an induction heating device configured and arranged to generate an alternating magnetic field in a receiving cavity so that when the article is received in the aerosol generating apparatus, the aerosol in the article is induction heated to form a liquid.

[0096] To generate an alternating magnetic field, an induction-heated aerosol generating apparatus (particularly an induction heating apparatus) may include at least one induction coil that surrounds at least a portion of a liquid transport sensor device located in an evaporation chamber when the article is received in the cavity of the aerosol generating apparatus. Specifically, when the article is received in the cavity of the apparatus, the induction coil may surround only the portion of the liquid transport sensor device located in the evaporation chamber. Preferably, the induction coil is arranged around the receiving cavity, particularly around the portion of the receiving cavity in which the evaporation chamber is located when the article is received in the cavity of the apparatus, and more particularly around the portion of the receiving cavity in which a portion of the evaporation chamber, including a portion of the liquid transport sensor device, is located when the article is received in the cavity of the apparatus. The at least one induction coil may be a helical coil or a planar coil, particularly a disc coil or a curved planar coil.

[0097] The induction heating device may include an alternating current (AC) generator. This AC generator may be powered by a power source from the aerosol generating device. The AC generator is operatively coupled to at least one induction coil. Specifically, the at least one induction coil may be an integral part of the AC generator. The AC generator is configured to generate a high-frequency oscillating current passing through the at least one induction coil to generate an alternating magnetic field. The AC current may be continuously supplied to the at least one induction coil after system activation, or it may be supplied intermittently, for example, on a per-port suction basis.

[0098] Preferably, the induction heating device includes a DC / AC converter comprising an LC network, wherein the LC network comprises a capacitor and an inductor connected in series. The DC / AC converter can be connected to a DC power supply.

[0099] The induction heating device is preferably configured to generate a high-frequency magnetic field. As mentioned herein, the high-frequency magnetic field can range from 500 kHz to 30 MHz, particularly from 5 MHz to 15 MHz, and preferably from 5 MHz to 10 MHz.

[0100] The aerosol generating apparatus may also include a controller configured, preferably in a closed-loop configuration, to control the operation of the heating process, particularly to control the heating of the aerosol-forming liquid to a predetermined operating temperature. The operating temperature for heating the aerosol-forming liquid can range from 100 degrees Celsius to 300 degrees Celsius, particularly from 150 degrees Celsius to 250 degrees Celsius, for example, 230 degrees Celsius.

[0101] The controller may be the overall controller of the aerosol generating apparatus, or a part of the overall controller. The controller may include a microprocessor, such as a programmable microprocessor, microcontroller, or application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or other electronic circuitry capable of providing control. The controller may include other electronic components, such as at least one DC / AC inverter and / or power amplifier, such as a Class C power amplifier, or a Class D power amplifier, or a Class E power amplifier. In particular, the sensing source may be part of the controller.

[0102] The aerosol generating device may include a power source, particularly a DC power source, configured to provide a DC power supply voltage and a DC power supply current to the sensing source. Preferably, the power source is a battery, such as a lithium iron phosphate battery. The power source may be rechargeable. The power source may have a capacity that allows for storing sufficient energy for one or more user experiences. For example, the power source may have sufficient capacity to allow for continuous aerosol generation for approximately six minutes or multiples of six minutes. In another example, the power source may have sufficient capacity to allow for a predetermined number of aspirations or discontinuous activation of the sensing source.

[0103] The aerosol generating apparatus may further include a flux concentrator arranged around at least a portion of an induction coil and configured to distort the alternating magnetic field of the induction coil toward the receiving cavity. Therefore, when the article is received in the receiving cavity, the alternating magnetic field is distorted toward the sensor device. Preferably, the flux concentrator comprises a flux concentrator foil, particularly a multilayer flux concentrator foil.

[0104] Other features and advantages of the aerosol generation system according to the invention have been described with respect to the cylinder and aerosol generation article according to the invention, and are therefore equally applicable.

[0105] Typically, as used herein, the section or component of the cylinder, aerosol generating article, or aerosol generating device that is close to the user's mouth when using the system is indicated by the prefix "near side". Sections located further away are indicated by the prefix "far side".

[0106] The invention is defined in the claims. However, a non-exhaustive list of non-limiting examples is provided below. Any one or more features of these examples may be combined with any one or more features of another example, embodiment, or aspect described herein.

[0107] Example Ex1: A cylinder for use with an induction-heated aerosol generating apparatus, the cylinder comprising:

[0108] An evaporation chamber located at the distal end of the cylinder for causing the aerosol to form a liquid therein to evaporate;

[0109] A storage chamber adjacent to the evaporation chamber for storing the liquid formed from the aerosol;

[0110] A liquid transport sensor device configured and arranged to transport aerosol-forming liquid from the reservoir chamber to the evaporation chamber, and when used with the aerosol generating device, to cause the aerosol-forming liquid to evaporate in the evaporation chamber;

[0111] A steam delivery conduit provides fluid communication between the evaporated aerosol forming liquid and a region adjacent to the reservoir chamber.

[0112] At least a distal cover forming the distal wall member of the evaporation chamber, wherein the distal cover is not integral with any wall member of the reservoir chamber.

[0113] Example Ex2: The cylinder according to Example Ex1, wherein the distal end cap is not inductively heated.

[0114] Example Ex3: A cylinder according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the distal end cap is made of PEEK or silicone.

[0115] Example Ex4: A cylinder according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the distal end cap defines the distal end of the cylinder.

[0116] Example Ex5: A cylinder according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the evaporation chamber includes at least one air inlet formed in the distal end cover.

[0117] Example Ex6: According to the cylinder of Example Ex5, wherein the at least one air inlet includes an air vent through the distal end cover, or an air vent groove formed in the surface of the distal end cover, the surface facing the wall members of the evaporation chamber other than the distal end cover, particularly the circumferential outer wall members of the evaporation chamber.

[0118] Example Ex7: A cylinder according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the distal end cap is rod-shaped.

[0119] Example Ex8: According to the cylinder of Example Ex7, wherein the rod-shaped distal end cover includes a rod body inserted into the circumferential outer wall member of the evaporation chamber.

[0120] Example Ex9: The cylinder according to Example Ex8, wherein the rod body is substantially cylindrical or truncated conical.

[0121] Example Ex10: A cylinder according to any one of Examples Ex8 to Ex9, wherein the rod body includes a circumferential collar that provides a sealing fit in the cylinder of the distal end cover, particularly against the circumferential outer wall member of the reservoir chamber.

[0122] Example Ex11: According to the cylinder of Example Ex7, the rod-shaped distal end cover includes a cover plate.

[0123] Example Ex12: A cylinder according to any one of Examples Ex7 to Ex11, wherein the rod-shaped distal end cover, in particular the cover plate, includes a protruding collar adjacent to the distal front end of the circumferential outer wall member of the evaporation chamber.

[0124] Example Ex13: A cylinder according to any one of Examples Ex7 to Ex12, wherein the rod-shaped distal end cap further includes an insertion portion that is at least partially inserted into the circumferential outer wall member of the evaporation chamber.

[0125] Example Ex14: According to the cylinder of Example Ex13, the insertion portion includes an insertion ring or insertion tube or insertion cylinder or insertion hollow cylinder or multiple insertion segments or multiple insertion pins or multiple insertion fins.

[0126] Example Ex15: In any of Examples Ex13 to Ex14, the insert portion extends at least partially (from the cover plate) to the diaphragm forming the common wall member of the evaporation chamber and the reservoir chamber.

[0127] Example Ex16: A cylinder according to any one of Examples Ex7 to Ex15, wherein the rod-shaped distal end cover includes at least one, particularly at least two, preferably two, three or four support legs, the support legs (from the cover plate) extending to a diaphragm forming a common wall member of the evaporation chamber and the reservoir chamber.

[0128] Example Ex17: According to the cylinder of Example Ex16, wherein at least one support leg extends along the inner surface of the circumferential outer wall member of the evaporation chamber.

[0129] Example Ex18: A cylinder according to any one of Examples Ex7 to Ex17, wherein the rod-shaped distal end cap includes at least one rod member at the proximal end that sealably closes a filling hole in the diaphragm for filling the reservoir chamber with aerosol-forming liquid via the evaporation chamber.

[0130] Example Ex19: According to Example Ex18, the rod member is arranged at the proximal end of the insertion portion, particularly at the proximal end of the at least one support leg.

[0131] Example Ex20: A cylinder according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the distal end cap is cup-shaped.

[0132] Example Ex21: According to the cylinder of Example Ex20, the cup-shaped distal end cap includes a bottom portion of the distal wall member forming the evaporation chamber and a sleeve portion of the circumferential outer wall member forming the evaporation chamber.

[0133] Example Ex22: A cylinder according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the cylinder includes a proximal end cap that forms at least a proximal sidewall member of the reservoir chamber.

[0134] Example Ex23: A cylinder according to any of the preceding examples includes a sleeve, the sleeve forming at least a circumferential outer wall member of the evaporation chamber.

[0135] Example Ex24: According to the cylinder of Example Ex23, wherein the sleeve portion further forms the circumferential outer wall member of the reservoir chamber.

[0136] Example Ex25: A cylinder according to any of the foregoing examples, wherein the distal end cap is installed in the cylinder by press fitting, snap-fit, welding, or adhesive bonding.

[0137] Example Ex26: A rod-shaped aerosol generating article for use with an induction heating aerosol generating apparatus, the article comprising a cylinder according to any of the foregoing examples, wherein the evaporation chamber is disposed at the distal portion of the article.

[0138] Example Ex27: The article of the embodiment of Example Ex26 further includes a mouthpiece at the proximal portion of the article.

[0139] Example Ex28: An aerosol generation system comprising an aerosol generation article according to any one of Examples Ex26 to Ex27, and an induction heating aerosol generation apparatus for use with said article.

[0140] Example Ex29: An aerosol generating system according to Example Ex28, wherein the aerosol generating apparatus includes a receiving chamber for removably receiving at least a portion of the aerosol-generated article, particularly at least a portion of the evaporation chamber of the article.

[0141] Example Ex30: An aerosol generation system according to Example Ex29, wherein the aerosol generation device includes an induction coil that surrounds at least a portion of the liquid delivery sensor device located in the evaporation chamber when the article is received in the cavity of the device. Attached Figure Description

[0142] Several examples will now be described further with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0143] Figure 1 The overall structure and components of the aerosol-generated article according to the present invention are schematically shown.

[0144] Figure 2 An aerosol-generating article according to a first embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0145] Figure 3 An aerosol generation system according to the present invention is shown, the aerosol generation system comprising an induction heating aerosol generation device and a device according to... Figure 2 Aerosol-generated products;

[0146] Figure 4-7 It shows the method for using according to Figure 2 Details of the cylinder in the aerosol-generating article according to the embodiment;

[0147] Figure 8-11 The alternative methods for use according to Figure 2 Details of the second embodiment of the cylinder in the aerosol-generating article;

[0148] Figure 12-13 The alternative methods for use according to Figure 2 Details of the third embodiment of the cylinder in the aerosol generating article; and

[0149] Figure 14-16 The alternative methods for use according to Figure 2 Details of the fourth embodiment of the cylinder in the aerosol-generating article. Detailed Implementation

[0150] Figure 1 An exploded view schematically illustrates the overall structure and components of the rod-shaped aerosol generating article 1 according to the present invention. As will be discussed below... Figure 3 In more detail, the aerosol generating article 1 is configured for use with an induction heating aerosol generating apparatus to evaporate the aerosol provided by the aerosol generating article 1 to form liquid 19.

[0151] like Figure 1 The aerosol generating article 1 shown includes two main components: a cylindrical tube 10 for storing and evaporating aerosol-forming liquid 19 therein, and a cylindrical mouthpiece 90 through which a user can inhale to allow airflow through the article 1 (as indicated by the dashed arrow 21), wherein volatile compounds released from the heated aerosol-forming liquid 19 are entrained and condensed, thereby forming an aerosol that exits the article 1 at the proximal end 92 of the mouthpiece 90.

[0152] According to the invention, the cylinder 10 includes an evaporation chamber 11 at a distal portion of the cylinder 10 for evaporating the aerosol-forming liquid therein. The evaporation chamber 11 includes two air inlets 13 that allow air to enter the article when a user inhales at the mouthpiece 90. The cylinder 10 further includes a reservoir chamber 12 adjacent to the evaporation chamber 11 for storing the aerosol-forming liquid 19. Furthermore, the cylinder 10 includes a liquid delivery sensor device 40 configured and arranged to deliver the aerosol-forming liquid 19 from the reservoir chamber 12 into the evaporation chamber 11. Additionally, the liquid delivery sensor device 40 is configured and arranged to be inductively heated when exposed to an alternating magnetic field when used with a corresponding aerosol generating device, so as to cause the aerosol-forming liquid 19 within the evaporation chamber 11 to evaporate. Furthermore, cylinder 10 includes a steam delivery conduit 20 that provides fluid communication between air and the evaporated aerosol forming liquid from the evaporation chamber 11 to a region adjacent to the reservoir chamber 13 (that is, the nozzle 90 arranged near the proximal end wall member 14 of the reservoir chamber 12). Figure 1As can be further seen, the mouthpiece 90 of this example includes a hollow cellulose acetate tube that provides a central fluid passage 91 through the mouthpiece 90. The steam delivery conduit 20 extends directly outward into the central fluid passage to allow aerosols formed within the article to escape from the article at the proximal end 92 of the mouthpiece 90 via the steam outlet of the fluid passage 91.

[0153] The cylinder 10 and the mouthpiece 90 are separate parts that can be manufactured individually, particularly at different locations, and then assembled together to form the aerosol-generating article 1 according to the invention. For assembly, the cylindrical mouthpiece 90, having a cross-sectional shape and diameter substantially the same as that of the cylindrical cylinder 10, can be arranged close to the cylinder 10 adjacent to the reservoir chamber 12, such that it abuts the proximal end wall member 14 of the reservoir chamber 12. Subsequently, as... Figure 1 As shown, the first package 95 may wrap around at least the axial portion of the mouthpiece 90 and the cartridge 10 to hold the mouthpiece 90 and the cartridge 10 together. Also as... Figure 1 As shown, a second package 96 may circumferentially wrap around the mouthpiece 90 and preferably around the proximal portion of the tube 10 above the first package 95. The first package 95 and the second package 96 may wrap around the mouthpiece 90 and the tube 10 such that the free ends of the respective packages 95, 96 overlap each other. Each of the first and second packages may include an adhesive for adhering the free ends of the respective packages to each other. This process ultimately results in an aerosol-generating article 1 having a rod-like external shape, which is similar to or equivalent to, for example, a contemplated article containing a solid matrix as described in WO2015 / 177294A1.

[0154] A first exemplary embodiment of this article 101 is in Figure 2 As shown in the image. (and) Figure 1 Features that are identical or similar to those shown schematically in the overall article design are indicated by the same reference numerals, but with an increment of 100. The following section discusses... Figure 4-7Further details of article 101, particularly of cylinder 110 and its components, are described below. According to the overall article design, article 101 includes a cylindrical cylinder 110 and a cylindrical mouthpiece 190 formed from a hollow cellulose acetate tube, arranged coaxially next to each other and wrapped by a first paper wrapping 195 and a second paper wrapping 196. Cylinder 110 includes a cylindrical sleeve 170, which forms, as a single piece, the circumferential outer wall member 117 of evaporation chamber 111 and the circumferential outer wall member 116 of reservoir chamber 112. Cylinder 110 further includes a proximal cap 130 forming the proximal wall member 114 of reservoir chamber 112. Similarly, cylinder 110 includes a distal cap 150 forming the distal wall member 115 of evaporation chamber 111. Both the proximal cap 130 and the distal cap 150 are press-fitted into the proximal and distal openings of sleeve 170, respectively. The cylinder further includes a disc-shaped diaphragm 160, which forms a common wall member for the evaporation chamber 111 and the reservoir chamber 112, and thus separates the interior of the evaporation chamber 111 from the interior of the reservoir chamber 112. Like the proximal end cap 130 and the distal end cap 150, the disc-shaped diaphragm 160 is mounted in the sleeve 170 by press fitting between the two ends of the sleeve, such that the interiors of the sleeve 170 are separated at a ratio of approximately 1:3.

[0155] To transport the aerosol-forming liquid 119 stored in the reservoir chamber 112 to the evaporation chamber 111, the cylinder 110 according to an embodiment of the invention includes a liquid transport sensor device 140 formed of a U-shaped filament bundle 141, the U-shaped filament bundle comprising multiple filaments arranged parallel to each other. Due to the parallel arrangement of the filaments in the bundle, narrow spaces are formed between the multiple filaments, providing capillary action and thus enabling the transport of liquid along the length of the filaments. At least a portion of the filaments is made of an inductively heatable material (e.g., stainless steel). Therefore, the filament bundle 141 is capable of performing two functions: transporting and heating the aerosol-forming liquid. Figure 2As can be seen, the U-shaped filament bundle 141 includes a base and two arms, wherein the arms pass through corresponding feed ports 161 in the diaphragm 160. A corresponding distal portion of each arm is arranged in the reservoir chamber 112 for soaking the aerosol-forming liquid 119. Thus, the distal portions of the two arms can be represented as soaking sections 142. In contrast, the base and the corresponding proximal portions of each arm are arranged in the evaporation chamber, such that an evaporation section 143 is formed that is inductively heated when exposed to an alternating magnetic field. Thus, the aerosol-forming liquid 119, which has been conveyed from the reservoir chamber 112 via the soaking section 142 toward the evaporation section 143, evaporates within the evaporation chamber 111. To allow air to enter the article 101 for aerosol generation, the evaporation chamber 111 includes two air inlets 113 at the distal end of the article 101. To deliver air and evaporated liquid to the mouthpiece 190 in a proximal direction, the cylinder 110 according to this embodiment includes an inner tube 121 that forms a delivery conduit 120, providing fluid communication between the evaporation chamber 111 and the central passage 191 of the mouthpiece 190. The following describes... Figure 4-7 Further details are provided for the proximal cap 130, distal cap 150, inner tube 121, and diaphragm 160.

[0156] For example, regarding Figure 3 As described above, due to its rod-shaped external shape and the arrangement of the evaporation chamber 111 at the distal portion of the cylindrical article 101, the article 101 is designed for compatibility with the conceived induction-heated aerosol generating apparatus 3 for solid matrix consumables. Thus, the apparatus can be used universally with various types of articles to generate matrices from different types of aerosols, particularly from both solid and liquid matrices.

[0157] Figure 3 An aerosol generation system 2 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is schematically illustrated. System 2 includes, as shown below: Figure 2The aerosol generating article 101 shown is accompanied by an induction-heated aerosol generating apparatus 3 capable of interacting with the article 101 to generate aerosols. For this purpose, the aerosol generating apparatus 3 includes a receiving cavity 4 formed within a housing at a proximal end of the apparatus 3. The receiving cavity 4 is configured to removably receive at least a portion of the aerosol generating article 101. Specifically, the aerosol generating apparatus 3 is configured to inductively heat a heating section 143 of the filament bundle 141 to a temperature sufficient to cause the aerosol transported from the reservoir chamber 112 via the soaking section 142 to the heating section 143 to form a liquid evaporation temperature. For this purpose, the apparatus 3 includes an induction heating device comprising an induction coil 5. In this embodiment, the induction coil 5 is a single helical coil arranged around the proximal portion of the receiving cavity 4 such that it surrounds only the heating section 143 of the liquid delivery sensor device 140 when the article 101 is received in the cavity 4. Therefore, when the induction coil 5 is driven with an AC current during use of the device 3, the induction coil 5 generates an alternating magnetic field that primarily penetrates the heating section 143 in the evaporation chamber 111 of the article 101. In contrast, due to localized heating, the soaking section 142 of the U-shaped filament bundle 141 remains at a temperature below the evaporation temperature. This prevents boiling of the aerosol-forming liquid 191 within the reservoir chamber 112. Therefore, during operation, the liquid delivery sensor device 140 includes a temperature profile showing a temperature rise from the temperature in the soaking section 142, below the evaporation temperature of the aerosol-forming liquid 191, to the temperature in the heating section 143, above the corresponding evaporation temperature. The aerosol generating device 3 further includes a controller 6 for controlling the operation of the entire system 2, particularly for controlling the heating operation. Furthermore, the aerosol generating device 3 includes a power source 7 that provides electricity for generating the alternating magnetic field. Preferably, the power source 7 is a battery, such as a lithium iron phosphate battery. The power source 7 may have a capacity that allows sufficient energy to be stored for one or more user experiences. Both the controller 6 and the power supply 7 are located in the far part of the aerosol generating device 3.

[0158] When using system 2, as the user inhales at mouthpiece 190, air is drawn into cavity 4 at the edge of article insertion opening 8. The airflow further extends toward the distal end of cavity 4 through a passage formed between the inner surface of the cylindrical cavity 4 and the outer surface of article 101. At the distal end of cavity 4, the airflow enters evaporation chamber 111 through air inlet 113. From there, the airflow further passes through steam delivery conduit 120 to mouthpiece 190, where it finally exits article 101. In evaporation chamber 111, the evaporated aerosol forming liquid 119 is entrained in the airflow. As the air and evaporated liquid 119 flow further through steam delivery conduit 120 and the central air passage 191 of mouthpiece 190, the airflow is cooled, causing the formation of an aerosol that escapes from article 101 through mouthpiece 190.

[0159] refer to Figure 4-7 Now, the description is based on Figure 2-3 Further details of the cylinder 110 of product 101. Figure 4 yes Figure 2 An enlarged view, but not showing the mouthpiece 190, the first package 195, and the second package 196. Similarly, Figure 5 It is based on Figure 2 Perspective view of cylinder 110. Figure 6 A front view of the diaphragm 160 as seen in the proximal direction is shown, while Figure 7 A perspective view of the distal end cover 150 is shown.

[0160] As from Figure 4 and Figure 5 As can be seen, the inner tube 121 forming the steam conveying conduit 120 is a cylindrical tube with a circular inner cross-section and a circular outer cross-section. Preferably, the inner tube 121 is made of plastic. Due to its cylindrical shape, it can be advantageously manufactured by extrusion. (See from...) Figure 4 and Figure 5 It can be further seen that the inner tube 121 extends coaxially with the sleeve 170 along the entire axial length of the reservoir chamber 112 from the proximal end cap 130 to the diaphragm 160. Therefore, the inner tube 121 also forms the inner wall component of the reservoir chamber 112. Thus, the volume of the reservoir chamber 112 is a substantially hollow cylinder. In particular, the inner tube 121 is not integral with the rod-shaped proximal end cap 130 and the disc-shaped diaphragm 160 (they are separate from each other). Figure 4 As best seen, the proximal cap 130 includes a through-hole 135, which is a continuation of the fluid communication provided by the steam delivery conduit 120. Specifically, the proximal cap 130 includes a distal recess 136 forming the distal portion of the through-hole 135, in which the proximal portion of the inner tube 121 is supported. The internal cross-section of the distal recess 136 is larger than the internal cross-section of the remaining proximal portion 137 of the through-hole 135. Thus, the distal recess 136 forms an abutment for the inner tube 121 to fix its position in the proximal direction. The internal cross-section of the proximal portion 137 of the through-hole 135 corresponds to the internal cross-section of the inner tube 121, such that the airflow passage through the steam delivery conduit 120 continues smoothly through the proximal portion 137 of the through-hole 135.

[0161] Similarly, the distal portion of the inner tube 121 is supported in a through-hole 165 of the diaphragm 160, which connects the steam delivery conduit 120 to the evaporation chamber 111. Like the proximal end cap 130, the diaphragm 160 includes a proximal recess 166 forming the proximal portion of the through-hole 165, in which the steam delivery conduit is supported at its distal end. The internal cross-section of the proximal recess 166 is larger than the internal cross-section of the remaining distal portion 167 of the through-hole 165, thus providing an abutment for the inner tube 121 in the distal direction. To ensure a smooth continuation of the airflow path from the evaporation chamber 111 into the steam delivery conduit 120, the internal cross-section of the distal portion 167 of the through-hole 165 corresponds to the internal cross-section of the inner tube 121. Supporting both ends of the inner tube 121 in the recesses 136, 166 has proven particularly advantageous in terms of a proper sealing fit between the steam delivery conduit 140 and the end wall members of the reservoir chamber 112.

[0162] As described above, the diaphragm 160 also includes two feed openings 161 through which the U-shaped arms of the filament bundle 141 pass. The cross-sectional dimensions of the feed openings 161 are chosen such that the liquid transport sensor device 140 is securely held by the diaphragm 160. Advantageously, the liquid transport sensor device 140 is secured in the diaphragm 160 before assembly of the assembly cylinder 110 to facilitate assembly. Figure 6 As shown, the diaphragm further includes two filling holes 169, which are laterally arranged on opposite sides of the through hole 165 for filling the aerosol-forming liquid 191 into the reservoir chamber 112 via the evaporation chamber 111 before the distal end cap 150 is installed to the distal end of the sleeve 170.

[0163] Furthermore, the diaphragm 160 includes a circumferential collar 168 having a cross-sectional shape corresponding to the internal cross-sectional shape of the sleeve 170. Therefore, the collar 168 is used to securely mount the diaphragm 160 within the sleeve 110 via a press fit. Additionally, the collar 168 provides a sealing fit between the diaphragm 160 and the inner surface of the sleeve 170, thereby preventing aerosol-forming liquid from leaking from the reservoir chamber 112 into the evaporation chamber.

[0164] The rod body of the proximal end cap 130, which is fully inserted into the proximal end of the sleeve 170, also has a cross-sectional shape corresponding to the internal cross-section of the sleeve 170. Thus, the proximal end cap 130 is also sealed and fixedly installed in the sleeve 170 by press fit.

[0165] Both the proximal cap 130 and the diaphragm are preferably made of silicone. Silicone has suitable sealing properties and is inexpensive, which is of particular interest given that the cylinder 110 is preferably used in an aerosol-generating article 101 configured for single use only. In addition, silicone is not inductively heated, which prevents the energy provided by the alternating magnetic field from being unnecessarily dissipated in the diaphragm 160 and the proximal cap 130.

[0166] like Figure 7 Chinese combination Figure 4 and Figure 5 As best seen, the rod-shaped distal end cap 150 includes a cover plate 151 and an insertion portion 152. The cover plate 151 extends radially outward beyond the internal cross-section of the insertion portion 152 and the sleeve 170, such that it abuts the distal front end of the sleeve 170. The insertion portion 152 is inserted into the distal portion of the sleeve 170, which forms the circumferential outer wall member 117 of the evaporation chamber 111. In this embodiment, the insertion portion 152 includes an insertion ring 153 and two support legs 154 that extend along the inner surface of the circumferential outer wall member 117 of the evaporation chamber 111. The length of the support legs 154 is selected such that when the distal rod 150 is installed in the sleeve 110, the legs 154 abut the diaphragm 160 and the cover plate 151 abuts the distal front end of the sleeve 170. Thus, the distal end cap 150 is secured in place in the proximal direction. Conversely, the diaphragm 160 is fixed in the distal direction and also in the proximal direction via the inner tube 121 and the proximal cap.

[0167] Additionally, the rod-shaped distal end cap 150 includes a rod member 159 at the proximal end of each support leg 154 for sealingly closing the filling hole 169 in the diaphragm 160 when the distal end cap 150 is installed in the cylinder 110. Advantageously, this configuration allows the filling hole 169 to be sealed and the distal end of the evaporation chamber 111 to be closed in a single step by installing the rod-shaped distal end cap 150.

[0168] According to this embodiment, an air inlet 113 is formed in the evaporation chamber 111 within the distal cover 150. For example... Figure 7 As best seen, each air inlet 113 includes an air ventilation groove 157 formed in the outer surface of the distal end cap 150 facing the sleeve 117 (that is, in the outer surface of the insert ring 153 and the outer portion of the cover plate 151).

[0169] Preferably, the distal cap 150 and the cylinder 117 are made of PEEK to provide good thermal stability to the article 101. Additionally, PEEK is non-inductively heat-resistant, thus preventing burns if a user touches the article 101 shortly after the heating process.

[0170] Figure 8-11 The alternative methods for use according to Figure 2discloses a second embodiment of the cartridge 210 according to the present invention in an aerosol-generating article. The general arrangement of this cartridge is Figure 4-7 similar to the arrangement of the cartridge shown in Figure 4-7 the first embodiment, and therefore identical or similar features are denoted by the same reference numerals increased by 100. Compared with the cartridge 210 according to Figure 8-11 the first embodiment, the cartridge 210 according to the present invention comprises a cylindrical inner tube 221 having an elliptical inner cross-section and an elliptical outer cross-section. Advantageously, the elliptical cross-section provides more free space in the reservoir chamber for arranging the soaked segments 242 of the tow 241 on both sides of the main axis of the elliptical inner tube 221. Accordingly, the through-hole 235 in the proximal cap 230 and the through-hole 265 in the diaphragm 260 also have an elliptical cross-section corresponding to the size and orientation of the inner and outer elliptical cross-sections of the inner tube 221.

[0171] Furthermore, compared with the diaphragm 260 according to Figure 4-7 the first embodiment, the diaphragm 260 of the cartridge 210 according to Figure 8-11 the present invention comprises a proximal insertion socket 266 projecting into the reservoir chamber 212. Figure 10 Details of the diaphragm 260, in particular details of the proximal insertion socket 266, are shown therein. The proximal insertion socket 266 forms the proximal portion of the through-hole 265 in which the distal end portion of the inner tube 221 is supported. Thus, the proximal insertion socket 266 can be considered as a protrusion extending into the reservoir chamber 212, said protrusion comprising a recess forming the proximal portion of the through-hole 265. The elliptical inner cross-section of the proximal insertion socket 266 is larger than the elliptical inner cross-section of the remaining distal portion 267 of the through-hole 265, thereby providing an abutment for the distal end portion of the inner tube 221 in the distal direction. In order to provide a substantially smooth airflow path through the cartridge 210, the elliptical inner cross-section of the distal portion 267 of the through-hole 265 corresponds to the elliptical inner cross-section of the inner tube 221.

[0172] As can be further seen in Figure 10 , contrary to the first embodiment according to Figure 4-7 the present invention, the diaphragm 260 of the cartridge 210 according to the second embodiment does not comprise any filling holes. As shown in Figure 11 , instead, the proximal cap 230 comprises two filling holes 239, which are arranged laterally on opposite sides of the elliptical through-hole 235, for filling the aerosol-forming liquid 291 into the reservoir chamber 212 via the proximal end of the cartridge 210. In order to hermetically close the filling holes 239 when filling the reservoir chamber 212, the cartridge 210 comprises a proximal rod member 233, details of which are also shown in Figure 11is illustrated therein. In order to have a substantially flat proximal side at the proximal end of the cartridge 210, the proximal cap 230 comprises a proximal recess 231 in which a proximal bar member 233 is received. One or more filling holes may be arranged adjacent to the through hole 235 of the proximal cap. For example, the proximal cap may comprise two filling holes arranged laterally at opposite sides of the through hole. The proximal bar member 233 comprises a disc 232 having a protrusion 238 that sealingly fits into the filling hole 239 of the proximal cap 230. In order to allow aerosol to freely escape from the cartridge 210 in a proximal direction, the proximal bar member 233 comprises a through hole 234 in the disc 232 that aligns with the through hole 235 of the proximal cap 230. Preferably, the cross-section of the through hole 234 of the proximal bar member corresponds to the inner cross-section of the vapor delivery conduit 220, so as to provide a smooth airflow path.

[0173] Figure 12-13 illustrates a third embodiment of a cartridge 310 according to the present invention that may alternatively be used in an aerosol-generating article according to Figure 2 . The overall arrangement of this cartridge is similar to the arrangement of the cartridge shown in Figure 4-7 . Therefore, the same or similar features are denoted by the same reference numerals increased by 200. Compared with the first embodiment according to Figure 4-7 , the cartridge 310 according to Figure 12-13 does not comprise a cylindrical cartridge sleeve, but comprises a cup-shaped proximal cap 330 and a cup-shaped distal cap 350. The cup-shaped proximal cap 330 comprises a bottom portion 331 forming the proximal wall member 314 of the reservoir chamber 312 and a sleeve portion 332 (the side wall of the cup shape) forming the circumferential outer side wall member 315 of the reservoir chamber 312. Likewise, the cup-shaped distal cap 350 comprises a bottom portion 351 forming the distal wall member 315 of the evaporation chamber 311 and a sleeve portion 352 (the side wall of the cup shape) forming the circumferential outer side wall member 317 of the evaporation chamber 311. In this configuration, the reservoir chamber 312 and the evaporation chamber are substantially completely formed by the proximal cap 330 and the distal cap 350, respectively. The missing wall member is formed by a diaphragm 360, which also serves as a connecting link to which the proximal cap 330 and the distal cap 350 are attached by press fitting. As can be seen in Figure 12 , the diaphragm 360 comprises a circumferential protrusion 363 against which the distal side of the sleeve portion 332 and the proximal side of the sleeve portion 352 abut.

[0174] Furthermore, compared with the first embodiment according to Figure 4-7 , the cup-shaped proximal cap 330 of the cartridge 210 according to Figure 12-13 comprises (similar to the diaphragm 260 according to Figure 8-11 ) a distal insertion socket 336 protruding into the reservoir chamber 312, said distal insertion socket forming a through hole 335, and the proximal portion of the vapor delivery conduit 320 is fully supported in said distal insertion socket.

[0175] Figure 14-16 There is illustrated, alternatively usable in accordance with Figure 2 an aerosol-generating article, a fourth embodiment of a cartridge 410 according to the present invention. The general arrangement of this cartridge is similar to the arrangement of the cartridge shown in Figure 4-7 , therefore, identical or similar features are denoted by the same reference numerals increased by 300. Compared with the first embodiment according to Figure 4-7 , according to Figure 14-16 the cartridge 410 does not comprise a separate cartridge sleeve, inner tube and proximal end cap. Instead, the cartridge 410 comprises a one-piece body 480, which includes a proximal portion 483, an outer sleeve portion 487 and an inner tube portion 482, said inner tube portion being arranged coaxially within the outer sleeve portion 487. The outer sleeve portion 487 extends along the entire axial length of the reservoir chamber 412 and the evaporation chamber 411, and thus forms the circumferential outer wall member 416 of the reservoir chamber 412 and the circumferential outer wall member 417 of the evaporation chamber 411. The proximal portion 483 forms the proximal wall member 414 of the reservoir chamber 412, said proximal wall member comprising a through hole 485 into which the proximal end of the inner tube portion 482 opens. The inner tube portion 482 forms a vapor delivery conduit 420, and at the same time forms the inner wall member of the hollow cylindrical reservoir chamber 412. In this embodiment, the inner tube portion 482 extends along the entire axial length of the reservoir chamber 412, and further passes through the through hole 465 of the diaphragm 460 into the evaporation chamber 411. Advantageously, such a one-piece body 480 facilitates the construction and assembly of the cartridge 410. The proximal portion may correspond to the aforementioned proximal end cap forming the proximal wall member of the reservoir chamber. As in other embodiments, the diaphragm 460 is preferably mounted within the outer sleeve portion 487 using a collar 468, by a press fit or by a snap fit or by welding or by adhesive bonding. The one-piece body 480 is combined with a distal end cap 450 as further described above, said distal end cap not being integral with the one-piece body 480 and being mounted to the distal end of the one-piece body 480 by a press fit or by a snap fit or by welding or by adhesive bonding. Preferably, both the one-piece body 480 and the distal end cap 450 are injection molded using PEEK, so as to prevent the user from being burned when touching an article including the cartridge 410 shortly after the heating process.

[0176] Referring to Figure 16 , the cartridge 410 further comprises a sealing ring 449 for each of the feedthrough openings 461 in the diaphragm 460. In this embodiment, the sealing ring 449 is overmolded around those portions of the liquid delivery sensor device 440 that pass through the feedthrough opening 461. Advantageously, this provides a particularly good seal and facilitates the assembly of the cartridge 410. Preferably, the tow 441 forming the liquid delivery sensor device 440 is overmolded with the sealing ring 449 before the cartridge 410 is assembled.

[0177] For the purposes of this specification and the appended claims, unless otherwise indicated, all figures representing quantities, quantities, percentages, etc., shall be understood to be modified by the term "about" in all cases. Furthermore, all ranges include the disclosed maximum and minimum points, and include any intermediate ranges therein, which may or may not be specifically listed herein. Thus, in this context, the number A is understood to be A ± 5% A. In 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 as used in the appended claims, the number A may deviate from the percentages listed above, provided that the amount of deviation from A does not significantly affect the fundamental and novel features of the claimed invention. Furthermore, all ranges include the disclosed maximum and minimum points, and include any intermediate ranges therein, which may or may not be specifically listed herein.

Claims

1. A cylinder for a rod-shaped aerosol generating article, said aerosol generating article for use with an induction-heated aerosol generating apparatus, said cylinder comprising: An evaporation chamber located at the distal end of the cylinder for causing the aerosol to form a liquid therein to evaporate; A storage chamber adjacent to the evaporation chamber for storing the liquid formed from the aerosol; A liquid transport sensor device configured and arranged to transport aerosol-forming liquid from the reservoir chamber to the evaporation chamber, and when used with the aerosol generating device, to cause the aerosol-forming liquid to evaporate in the evaporation chamber; A steam delivery conduit provides fluid communication between the evaporated aerosol forming liquid and a region adjacent to the reservoir chamber. A diaphragm forming a common wall member of the evaporation chamber and the reservoir chamber, wherein the diaphragm includes at least one filling hole for filling the reservoir chamber with aerosol-forming liquid via the evaporation chamber; At least a rod-shaped distal end cap forming the distal wall member of the evaporation chamber, wherein the rod-shaped distal end cap is not integral with any wall member of the reservoir chamber, and wherein the rod-shaped distal end cap includes at least one rod member at its proximal end, the at least one rod member sealingly closing the at least one filling hole in the diaphragm.

2. The cylinder according to claim 1, wherein the distal end cap is not inductively heated.

3. The cylinder of claim 1, wherein the evaporation chamber includes at least one air inlet formed in the distal end cover, wherein the at least one air inlet includes an air vent through the distal end cover or an air vent groove formed in a surface of the distal end cover facing a wall member of the evaporation chamber other than the distal end cover.

4. The cylinder of claim 3, wherein the at least one air inlet comprises the air ventilation groove formed in the surface of the distal end cover, the surface facing the circumferential outer wall member of the evaporation chamber.

5. The cylinder according to claim 1, wherein the rod-shaped distal end cap includes a rod body inserted into the circumferential outer wall member of the evaporation chamber.

6. The cylinder of claim 5, wherein the rod body includes a circumferential collar that provides a sealing fit within the cylinder of the distal end cap against the circumferential outer wall member of the reservoir chamber.

7. The cylinder according to claim 1, wherein the rod-shaped distal end cap includes a cover plate.

8. The cylinder of claim 1, wherein the rod-shaped distal end cap further comprises an insertion portion that is at least partially inserted into the circumferential outer wall member of the evaporation chamber.

9. The cylinder of claim 1, wherein the rod-shaped distal end cap includes at least one support leg extending into the diaphragm.

10. The cylinder of claim 9, wherein the rod-shaped distal end cap includes at least two support legs extending into the diaphragm.

11. The cylinder of claim 9, wherein the rod-shaped distal end cap includes three support legs extending into the diaphragm.

12. The cylinder of claim 9, wherein the rod-shaped distal end cap includes four support legs extending into the diaphragm.

13. The cylinder according to claim 9, wherein the at least one support leg extends along the inner surface of the circumferential outer wall member of the evaporation chamber.

14. The cylinder according to claim 8, wherein the rod member is arranged at the proximal end of the insertion portion.

15. The cylinder according to claim 9, wherein the rod member is disposed at the proximal end of the at least one support leg.

16. The cylinder according to any one of claims 1-15, wherein the rod member is made of the same material as the other parts of the rod-shaped distal end cap.

17. The cylinder according to any one of claims 1-15, wherein the rod member is integral with the other portion of the rod-shaped distal end cap.

18. The cylinder according to any one of claims 1-15, wherein the at least one filling hole is arranged near the through hole of the diaphragm, and the steam delivery conduit passes through or is supported in the through hole at its distal end.

19. The cylinder according to any one of claims 1-15, wherein the distal end cap is mounted in the cylinder by press fit.

20. The cylinder according to any one of claims 1-15, wherein the distal end cap is installed in the cylinder by a snap-fit ​​engagement.

21. The cylinder according to any one of claims 1-15, wherein the distal end cap is mounted in the cylinder by welding.

22. The tube according to any one of claims 1-15, wherein the distal end cap is mounted in the tube by adhesive bonding.

23. A rod-shaped aerosol generating article for use with an induction heating aerosol generating apparatus, the article comprising a cylinder according to any one of claims 1-22 and a mouthpiece at a proximal portion of the article, wherein the evaporation chamber is disposed at a distal portion of the article.

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