Cartridge with air guide element

Abstract

The present invention relates to a cartridge for use with an aerosol-generating device, comprising a liquid storage portion (92) for holding a liquid aerosol-forming substrate; an inner airflow path (14) extending between the proximal end and the distal end of the cartridge; and a tubular inner unit (10) defining at least a portion of an inner airflow path; wherein the inner unit comprises a tubular heater component (40) comprising a susceptor element (42) arranged in the inner airflow path, and wherein the inner unit comprises a distal airflow management component (60) comprising an airflow guide element (72) arranged in the inner airflow path, and wherein the airflow directing element is configured for directing airflow across the surface of the susceptor element.

Description

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a cartridge for use with an aerosol generating device. The present disclosure also relates to an aerosol generating system comprising the cartridge and the aerosol generating device.

[0002] It is known to provide an aerosol generating device for generating an inhalable vapour. Such a device may heat an aerosol-forming substrate contained in a cartridge without burning the aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol generating device may comprise a heating device. The heating device may be an induction heating device and may comprise an induction coil and a susceptor. The susceptor may be part of the device or may be part of the cartridge.

[0003] When heated to the target temperature, the aerosol-forming substrate vaporizes to form an aerosol. The aerosol-forming substrate can exist in solid form or in liquid form. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate can be included in the liquid storage portion and can be delivered to the heating element via the capillary member. The liquid storage portion can form a part of a replaceable or refillable cartridge. The cartridge can include a manually removable liquid storage portion sealing device, such as a removable sealing cap or a disposable sealing foil, to avoid leakage of the aerosol-forming substrate before use. Aerosolization can only occur partially. This may result in recondensation of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may not be fully evaporated. This may damage the experience of the user during the consumption of the aerosol.

[0004] It is desirable to provide a cartridge for an aerosol generating device that can improve evaporation of a liquid aerosol-forming substrate. It is desirable to provide a cartridge for an aerosol generating device that can improve the formation of an aerosol. It is desirable to provide a cartridge for an aerosol generating device that can improve the user experience. It is desirable to provide a cartridge for an aerosol generating device that can be more comfortably held by a user.

[0005] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a cartridge for use with an aerosol generating device is provided. The cartridge may include a liquid storage portion for holding a liquid aerosol-forming substrate. The cartridge may include an inner airflow path extending between a proximal end and a distal end of the cartridge. The cartridge may include a tubular inner unit defining at least a portion of the inner airflow path. A tubular heater component may be present in the inner unit. The tubular heater component may include a susceptor element disposed in the inner airflow path. The inner unit may also include a distal airflow management component including an airflow directing element disposed in the inner airflow path. The airflow directing element may be configured to direct airflow across a surface of the susceptor element.

[0006] According to another embodiment, a cartridge for use with an aerosol generating device is provided. The cartridge includes a liquid storage portion for holding a liquid aerosol-forming substrate. An inner airflow path is present within the cartridge, the inner airflow path extending between a proximal end and a distal end of the cartridge. The cartridge also includes a tubular inner unit defining at least a portion of the inner airflow path. The tubular inner unit includes a tubular heater component including a susceptor element disposed in the inner airflow path. The inner unit also includes a distal airflow management component. The airflow management component includes an airflow directing element disposed in the inner airflow path. The airflow directing element is configured to direct airflow across a surface of the susceptor element.

[0007] Due to the presence of the airflow directing element, the aerosol formed by the liquid aerosol-forming substrate may be improved. The airflow directing element may improve the air supply to the surface of the susceptor element. The airflow directing element may also reduce or avoid the presence of liquid aerosol-forming substrate droplets in the inner airflow path that may leak out of the cartridge.

[0008] As used herein, the terms "tubular", "tubular unit", "tubular component", "tubular element", and "tubular shape" refer to a three-dimensional object and a three-dimensional geometric shape that includes a bottom base, a top base, and a sidewall defining a hollow interior, the sidewall being disposed between the bottom base and the top base. The sidewall extends between the bottom base and the top base along the longitudinal axis of the tubular element. The longitudinal axis may be perpendicular to one or both of the bottom base and the top base.

[0009] The bottom base of the tubular element is located within the bottom base plane. The top base of the tubular element is located within the top base plane. The cross-sectional shape of one or both of the bottom base and the top base can be circular. The cross-sectional shape of one or both of the bottom base and the top base can be non-circular, such as oval, stadium-shaped or rectangular. One or both of the bottom base and the top base can be open.

[0010] The tubular element may have the shape of a perfect circular hollow cylinder. The tubular element may have the shape of a non-circular hollow cylinder, such as an elliptical hollow cylinder or a stadium-shaped hollow cylinder. The tubular element may have the shape of a hollow cuboid.

[0011] The longitudinal axis of the tubular element may be arranged parallel to the longitudinal axis of the barrel.The longitudinal centre axis of the tubular element may coincide with the longitudinal centre axis of the barrel.

[0012] The airflow management component of the cartridge may include a tubular sidewall defining an inner airflow path.The airflow directing element may include at least one dividing wall element extending from the tubular sidewall into the inner airflow path.

[0013] The dividing wall element extending from the tubular side wall may improve the formation of the airflow directed towards the surface of the susceptor element.The dividing wall element extending from the tubular side wall may also provide a simple way of forming the dividing wall element within the airflow management component.

[0014] The airflow directing element may include a first dividing wall element extending from the tubular sidewall into the inner airflow path.The airflow directing element may also include an opposing second dividing wall element extending from the tubular sidewall into the inner airflow path.

[0015] The first dividing wall element and the second dividing wall element may increase air flow towards the susceptor element.

[0016] A dividing wall element may extend between opposing wall portions of the tubular side wall.

[0017] This may present a simple way of generating two separate air flows separated by a dividing wall.The two separate air flows may be directed over different surfaces of the susceptor element.

[0018] The susceptor element may include at least one first planar surface.The airflow directing element may be configured to direct airflow across the at least one first planar surface.

[0019] This may enhance the aerosol formed by the liquid aerosol-forming substrate and air delivered from the airflow directing element relative to the first planar surface of the susceptor element.

[0020] Preferably, the susceptor element may further include a second planar surface, and the airflow directing element may further be configured to direct airflow across the second planar surface.

[0021] This may enhance the formation of aerosol originating from the second planar surface.

[0022] Providing one or both of the first and second planar surfaces of the susceptor element may increase the surface of the susceptor element available for vaporizing the liquid aerosol-forming substrate. One or both of the first and second planar surfaces of the susceptor element may also increase the overall formation rate of the aerosol.

[0023] At least one of the dividing wall elements may comprise a first planar surface.The first planar surface of the susceptor element may be aligned with the first planar surface of the dividing wall element.

[0024] This may enhance the overall airflow towards the first planar surface of the susceptor element.

[0025] At least one of the partition wall elements may further comprise a second planar surface. The second planar surface of the partition wall element may be arranged opposite the first planar surface of the partition wall element. The second planar surface of the susceptor element may be aligned with the second planar surface of the partition wall element.

[0026] Having two opposing first and second planar surfaces of the susceptor element can increase the overall formation of aerosol generated by the susceptor element. A partition wall element having opposing first and second planar surfaces can increase the overall airflow from the partition wall element toward the opposing first and second planar surfaces of the susceptor element.

[0027] The first planar surface of the dividing wall element and the first planar surface of the susceptor element may lie in a common plane.The dividing wall element and the susceptor element may extend along a common plane.

[0028] This may increase the overall airflow from the first planar surface of the dividing wall element towards the first planar surface of the susceptor element.

[0029] The susceptor element may comprise one of a mesh, foam, or grid.

[0030] This may increase the overall surface of the susceptor element available for vaporizing the liquid aerosol-forming substrate. This may increase the overall surface of the susceptor element available for aerosol formation.

[0031] The susceptor element may include one or more of a metal, an alloy, a receptive wicking element including susceptor particles dispersed within the wicking element, and a conductive ceramic.

[0032] These materials are particularly suitable for induction heating.

[0033] The receptive wicking element including susceptor particles dispersed therein may include one or more of a cotton-based material, a porous ceramic-based material, a porous graphite-based material. These materials may transport a liquid aerosol-forming matrix toward the susceptor particles via capillary action. The susceptor particles dispersed within the wicking material may include particles comprising one or more of a metal, an alloy, and a conductive ceramic.

[0034] The cartridge may further comprise a tubular sleeve element defining at least a portion of the internal unit. The liquid supply channel may be arranged between the internal unit and the sleeve element. The heater component may comprise a wicking element arranged to transfer the liquid aerosol-forming substrate from the liquid supply channel to the susceptor element.

[0035] The heater component may comprise a fluid permeable wall portion arranged to allow migration of liquid aerosol-forming substrate from the liquid supply channel to the inner airflow path.The fluid permeable wall portion may be formed by two slits in opposing side walls of the tubular heater component.

[0036] The cartridge may comprise a wicking element arranged to transfer the liquid aerosol-forming substrate from the liquid supply channel to the susceptor element.

[0037] The heater component may include a wicking element.The wicking element may extend from the inner airflow path through two slits in opposing side walls of the tubular heater component into the liquid supply channel.

[0038] The wicking element may extend transversely across the inner airflow path and may protrude from the inner airflow path through the slit into the liquid supply channel.

[0039] This may allow the liquid aerosol-forming substrate to be easily transferred from the liquid supply channel to the susceptor element via capillary action.

[0040] The wicking element may include one or more of a cotton-based material, a porous ceramic-based material, a porous graphite-based material.

[0041] The wicking element may be in direct contact with the susceptor element.Preferably, the wicking element may be sandwiched between two layers of the susceptor element.

[0042] This may allow sufficient contact between the liquid aerosol-forming substrate and the susceptor element.This may facilitate easy formation of an aerosol from the liquid aerosol-forming substrate by evaporating the substrate via the susceptor element.

[0043] The wicking element may be in the form of a sheet, and the susceptor element may be U-shaped. The U-shaped susceptor element may be mounted on the wicking element within the airflow path.

[0044] This can provide a spatial arrangement between the wicking element and the susceptor element with a larger interface between the two elements. This may increase aerosol formation.

[0045] The internal unit may also include a tubular sealing component disposed proximal to the tubular heater component. The sealing component may include a tubular element defining a portion of the airflow path. The sealing component may include a proximal sealing element disposed on an outer surface of the tubular element. The internal unit may be axially movable relative to the sleeve element from a blocking position in which the proximal sealing element is arranged to block a fluid connection between the liquid storage portion and the liquid supply channel. The internal unit may be axially movable relative to the sleeve element to an open position in which the proximal sealing element moves to open a fluid connection between the liquid storage portion and the liquid supply channel.

[0046] Thus, movement of the inner unit relative to the sleeve element may allow the inner unit to move between a blocking position and an open position to block and allow fluid connection between the liquid storage portion and the liquid supply channel.

[0047] The distal end of the heater component may be connected to the proximal end of the airflow management component.The proximal end of the heater component may be connected to the distal end of the sealing component.

[0048] The sealing component, the heater component and the airflow management component may be connected by means of a plug connection.

[0049] The air flow management component may comprise at least one air inlet. The at least one air inlet may be configured for providing air towards the air flow directing element. Preferably, the air flow management component may comprise at least two air inlets.

[0050] The at least two air inlets may provide airflow towards different surfaces of the airflow directing element. This may enhance the airflow towards the susceptor element. This may enhance the formation of an aerosol from the liquid aerosol-forming substrate.

[0051] The airflow management component may comprise a tubular sidewall defining an inner airflow path. At least one air inlet may be located in the tubular sidewall. Preferably, at least two air inlets are located in the tubular sidewall.

[0052] At least two air inlets may be located at opposing regions of the tubular side wall.

[0053] This may provide a simple way of delivering the airflow to two different surfaces of the airflow guiding element.

[0054] At least two air inlets may be located in the tubular side wall, wherein the at least two air inlets are located at opposite sides of the air flow guiding element. This may provide a simple way of delivering the air flow to two opposite sides of the air flow guiding element. Preferably, the air flow guiding element comprises at least one dividing wall element having two opposite sides of the dividing wall.

[0055] The airflow management component may include a distal wall. The distal wall may be located in the inner airflow path. At least one air inlet may be located in the distal wall.

[0056] This may provide a possibility to deliver air through the at least one air inlet into the inner air flow path of the cartridge.

[0057] The airflow management component and the tubular heater component may be configured as separate structural components. These separate structural components may be connected along the longitudinal axis of the internal unit. Preferably, the airflow management component is connectable to the tubular heater component via a plug connection.

[0058] The tubular sealing member may be configured as a separate structural member.The tubular sealing member may be connected to the tubular heater member along the longitudinal axis of the internal unit.

[0059] The proximal portion of the barrel can be configured as a mouthpiece. This can allow a compact design of the barrel without the need for a separate mouthpiece to be attached to the barrel. In particular, the proximal portion of the barrel can be formed as a mouthpiece.

[0060] Preferably, the liquid storage portion is at least partially included in the mouthpiece. In particular, a portion of the liquid storage portion can be formed as a mouthpiece. This can achieve an advantageous design of a barrel, wherein the barrel comprises a mouthpiece, and wherein at least a portion of the liquid storage portion is included in the mouthpiece.

[0061] The liquid storage portion of the cartridge may define a portion of the inner gas flow path. This may allow a compact design of the cartridge, wherein the portion of the tubular sidewall defining the inner gas flow path also forms a portion of the liquid storage portion.

[0062] The distal airflow management component may comprise a retaining element for receiving the liquid aerosol-forming substrate.The retaining element may be configured to prevent leakage of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate from one or both of the susceptor element and the inner airflow path of the cartridge.

[0063] Preferably, the retaining element may comprise a closed distal end wall of the distal airflow management component.The retaining element may be formed as a slot.

[0064] The distal end of the cartridge may be configured for engagement with an aerosol generating device. The distal end of the cartridge may be configured for insertion into a cavity of an aerosol generating device. The distal end of the cartridge may include a connection means configured to releasably connect to the aerosol generating device. The connection means may be mechanical. The connection means may include one or more springs. The one or more springs may be made of a plastic material or a metal material or a combination thereof. The connection means may include a magnetic connection means.

[0065] The proximal end of the tube may be a mouth end. The proximal end of the tube may include a mouthpiece. The proximal end of the tube may include an air outlet.

[0066] The present invention also provides an aerosol generating system. The aerosol generating system may include a cartridge as described herein. The aerosol generating system may also include an aerosol generating device, the aerosol generating device including a cavity arranged to receive at least a distal portion of the cartridge. The cavity may be at least partially defined by an inductor coil.

[0067] The present invention also provides an aerosol generating system. The aerosol generating system comprises a cartridge as described herein. The aerosol generating system further comprises an aerosol generating device, the aerosol generating device comprising a cavity arranged to receive at least a distal portion of the cartridge. The cavity is at least partially defined by an inductor coil.

[0068] The inductor coil may be configured to heat a susceptor element comprised in the cartridge.This may allow the generation of an aerosol formed from the liquid aerosol-forming substrate and air.

[0069] The chamber of the aerosol generating device may be a heating chamber.

[0070] The aerosol generating device may comprise a pin element. The pin element may protrude from a distal face of the cavity. The pin element may be arranged to push against a distal airflow management component of the cartridge when the cartridge is inserted into the cavity.

[0071] This can allow the inner unit of the cartridge to move axially relative to the sleeve element so as to open the liquid supply channel for fluid connection between the liquid storage portion and the liquid supply channel. When the cartridge is purchased, the airflow management component of the cartridge may protrude from the sleeve element of the cartridge. In this position, the inner unit may be in a blocking position relative to the sleeve element. This can block the fluid connection between the liquid storage portion and the liquid supply channel when the cartridge is not inserted into the cavity of the aerosol generating device.

[0072] As used herein, the term "aerosol-forming substrate" relates to a substrate capable of releasing volatile compounds that can form an aerosol or vapor. Such volatile compounds can be released by heating the aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-forming substrate may be in liquid form. The terms "aerosol" and "vapor" are used synonymously.

[0073] The aerosol-forming substrate may be part of the cartridge.The aerosol-forming substrate may be part of a liquid held in a liquid storage portion of the cartridge.The liquid storage portion may contain a liquid aerosol-forming substrate.

[0074] Preferably, liquid nicotine or flavouring / flavour comprising the aerosol-forming substrate may be used in the liquid storage portion of the cartridge.

[0075] The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise nicotine.

[0076] The aerosol-forming substrate may include at least one aerosol former. The aerosol former is any suitable known compound or mixture of compounds that is conducive to the formation of a dense and stable aerosol in use and is substantially resistant to thermal degradation at the operating temperature of the device. Suitable aerosol formers are well known in the art and include, but are not limited to: polyols, such as triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol and glycerol; esters of polyols, such as glycerol mono-, di- or triacetate; and aliphatic esters of mono-, di- or polycarboxylic acids, such as dimethyl dodecanedioate and dimethyl tetradecanedioate. Preferred aerosol formers are polyols or mixtures thereof, such as triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol. Preferably, the aerosol former is glycerol.

[0077] As used herein, the term "cartridge" refers to an article that includes an aerosol-forming substrate that can release volatile compounds that can form an aerosol. For example, a cartridge can be an article that generates an aerosol that can be directly inhaled by a user sucking or drawing on a mouthpiece at the proximal or user end of the device or at the mouthpiece of the cartridge itself. The cartridge can be disposable. The cartridge can be reusable. The cartridge can be refillable. The cartridge can be inserted into a cavity of an aerosol generating device.

[0078] As used herein, the term "liquid storage portion" refers to a storage portion comprising an aerosol-forming substrate capable of releasing volatile compounds that can form an aerosol. The liquid storage portion may be configured as a container or reservoir for storing the liquid aerosol-forming substrate.

[0079] The liquid storage portion may be configured as a replaceable canister or container. The liquid storage portion may be of any suitable shape and size. For example, the liquid storage portion may be substantially cylindrical. The cross-section of the liquid storage portion may be, for example, substantially circular, oval, square or rectangular. The liquid storage portion may form part of a cartridge.

[0080] As used herein, the term "aerosol generating device" refers to a device that interacts with a cartridge to generate an aerosol.

[0081] As used herein, the term "aerosol generating system" refers to a combination of an aerosol generating device and a cartridge. In this system, the aerosol generating device and the cartridge cooperate to generate an inhalable aerosol.

[0082] Preferably, the aerosol generating device is portable. The aerosol generating device may have a size comparable to a conventional cigar or cigarette. The device may be an electrically operated smoking device. The device may be a handheld aerosol generating device. The aerosol generating device may have an overall length of between 30 mm and 150 mm. The aerosol generating device may have an outer diameter of between 5 mm and 30 mm.

[0083] The aerosol generating device may comprise a housing. The housing may be elongated. The housing may comprise any suitable material or combination of materials. Examples of suitable materials include metals, alloys, plastics or composite materials containing one or more of these materials, or thermoplastic materials suitable for food or pharmaceutical applications, such as polypropylene, polyetheretherketone (PEEK) and polyethylene. Preferably, the material is lightweight and non-brittle.

[0084] The housing may comprise at least one air inlet. The housing may comprise more than one air inlet.

[0085] The aerosol generating device may comprise a heating element.The heating element may comprise at least one inductor coil for inductively heating one or more susceptors.

[0086] The operation of the heating element may be triggered by a puff detection system. Alternatively, the heating element may be triggered by pressing a switch button that is held during a puff by the user. The puff detection system may be provided as a sensor, which may be configured as an airflow sensor to measure the airflow rate. The airflow rate is a parameter that characterizes the amount of air drawn by the user each time through the airflow path of the aerosol generating device. The start of a puff may be detected by the airflow sensor when the airflow exceeds a predetermined threshold. The start may also be detected when the user activates a button. The sensor may also be configured as a pressure sensor.

[0087] The aerosol generating device may comprise a user interface for activating the aerosol generating device, for example a button for initiating heating of the aerosol generating device or a display for indicating the status of the aerosol generating device or the aerosol-forming substrate.

[0088] The aerosol generating device may comprise additional components, such as a charging unit for recharging an onboard power supply in an electrically operated or electro-aerosol generating device.

[0089] As used herein, the term "proximal" refers to the user end or mouth end of a cartridge or aerosol generating device or system or a portion thereof, and the term "distal" refers to the end opposite the proximal end. When referring to a cavity, the term "proximal" refers to the area closest to the open end of the cavity, and the term "distal" refers to the area closest to the closed end.

[0090] As used herein, the terms “upstream” and “downstream” are used to describe the relative position of a component or part of a component of an aerosol generating device with respect to the direction in which a user draws on the aerosol generating device during use.

[0091] As used herein, the term "air flow path" refers to a passage suitable for conveying a gaseous medium. The air flow path can be used to convey ambient air. The air flow path can be used to convey an aerosol. The air flow path can be used to convey a mixture of air and aerosol.

[0092] As used herein, a "susceptor" or "susceptor element" refers to an element that becomes hot when subjected to an alternating magnetic field. This may be the result of eddy currents, hysteresis losses, or both eddy currents and hysteresis losses induced in the susceptor element. During use, the susceptor element is positioned in thermal contact or close thermal proximity to an aerosol-forming substrate received in an aerosol generating device or cartridge. In this way, the aerosol-forming substrate is heated by the susceptor such that an aerosol is formed.

[0093] The susceptor material can be any material that can be inductively heated to a temperature sufficient to aerosolize the aerosol-forming substrate. The following examples and features about the susceptor can be applied to the susceptor element of the tube. Suitable materials for the susceptor material include graphite, molybdenum, silicon carbide, stainless steel, niobium, aluminum, nickel, nickel-containing compounds, titanium and a composite of metallic materials. Preferred susceptor materials include metals or carbon. Advantageously, the susceptor material may include ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic materials, such as ferrite iron, ferromagnetic alloys (such as ferromagnetic steel or stainless steel), ferromagnetic particles and ferrites, or be made of them. Suitable susceptor materials may be aluminum or include aluminum. The susceptor material may include ferromagnetic, ferrimagnetic or paramagnetic materials greater than 5%, preferably greater than 20%, more preferably greater than 50%, or greater than 90%. Preferred susceptor materials may be heated to a temperature exceeding 250 degrees Celsius without degradation.

[0094] The susceptor material may be formed from a single layer of material. The single layer of material may be a layer of steel.

[0095] The susceptor material may comprise a non-metallic core with a metallic layer disposed on the non-metallic core.For example, the susceptor material may comprise a metallic track formed on the outer surface of a ceramic core or substrate.

[0096] The susceptor material may be formed of an austenitic steel layer. One or more layers of stainless steel may be disposed on the austenitic steel layer. For example, the susceptor material may be formed of an austenitic steel layer having a stainless steel layer on each of its upper and lower surfaces. The susceptor element may include a single susceptor material. The susceptor element may include a first susceptor material and a second susceptor material. The first susceptor material may be disposed in close physical contact with the second susceptor material. The first susceptor material and the second susceptor material may be in close contact to form an integral susceptor. In certain embodiments, the first susceptor material is stainless steel and the second susceptor material is nickel. The susceptor element may have a two-layer construction. The susceptor element may be formed of a stainless steel layer and a nickel layer.

[0097] Intimate contact between the first susceptor material and the second susceptor material may be achieved by any suitable means. For example, the second susceptor material may be plated, deposited, coated, clad or welded to the first susceptor material. Preferred methods include electroplating, flow plating and cladding.

[0098] The aerosol generating device may include a power source for powering the heating element. The power source may include a battery. The power source may be a lithium-ion battery. Alternatively, the power source may be a nickel metal hydride battery, a nickel cadmium battery, or a lithium-based battery, such as a lithium cobalt, lithium iron phosphate, lithium titanate, or lithium polymer battery. The power source may need to be recharged and may have a capacity to store sufficient energy for one or more use experiences; for example, the power source may have sufficient capacity to continuously generate aerosol for a period of about six minutes or a multiple of six minutes. In another example, the power source may have sufficient capacity to provide a predetermined number of puffs or discontinuous activations of the heating element.

[0099] The power supply may be a direct current (DC) power supply. In one embodiment, the power supply is a DC power supply having a DC supply voltage in the range of 2.5 volts to 4.5 volts and a DC supply current in the range of 1 ampere to 10 amperes (corresponding to a DC power supply in the range of 2.5 watts to 45 watts). The aerosol generating device may advantageously include a direct current to alternating current (DC / AC) inverter for converting the DC current supplied by the DC power supply into an alternating current. The DC / AC converter may include a class D, class C or class E power amplifier. The AC power output of the DC / AC converter is supplied to the induction coil.

[0100] The power supply may be adapted to power the inductor coil and may be configured to operate at a high frequency. The class E power amplifier is preferably used to operate at a high frequency. As used herein, the term "high frequency oscillating current" means an oscillating current having a frequency between 500 kilohertz and 30 megahertz. The frequency of the high frequency oscillating current may be 1 megahertz to 30 megahertz, preferably 1 megahertz to 10 megahertz, and more preferably 5 megahertz to 8 megahertz.

[0101] In another embodiment, the switching frequency of the power amplifier may be in the lower kHz range, for example between 100 kHz and 400 KHz.In embodiments using class D or class C power amplifiers, a switching frequency in the lower kHz range is particularly advantageous.

[0102] The aerosol generating device may comprise a controller. The controller may be electrically connected to the inductor coil. The controller may be electrically connected to the first induction coil and the second induction coil. The controller may be configured to control the current supplied to the induction coil and thereby control the strength of the magnetic field generated by the induction coil.

[0103] A power source and controller may be connected to the inductor coil.

[0104] The controller may be configured to be able to cut off the current supply on the input side of the DC / AC converter. In this way, the power supplied to the inductor coil may be controlled by conventional methods of duty cycle management.

[0105] 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.

[0106] Example E1. A cartridge for use with an aerosol generating device, comprising

[0107] a liquid storage portion for holding a liquid aerosol-forming substrate;

[0108] an inner gas flow path extending between the proximal and distal ends of the barrel; and

[0109] a tubular inner cell defining at least a portion of said inner airflow path;

[0110] wherein the internal unit comprises a tubular heater component including a susceptor element arranged in the inner airflow path,

[0111] wherein the internal unit comprises a distal airflow management component comprising an airflow directing element arranged in the inner airflow path, and

[0112] The airflow guiding element is configured to guide airflow across a surface of the susceptor element.

[0113] Example E2. The cartridge of example El, wherein the airflow management component includes a tubular sidewall defining the inner airflow path, and wherein the airflow directing element includes at least one dividing wall element extending from the tubular sidewall into the inner airflow path.

[0114] Example E3. The cartridge of the preceding example, wherein the airflow directing element comprises a first dividing wall element extending from the tubular sidewall into the inner airflow path and an opposing second dividing wall element extending from the tubular sidewall into the inner airflow path.

[0115] Example E4. The cartridge of example E2, wherein the dividing wall element extends between opposing wall portions of the tubular side wall.

[0116] Example E5. A cartridge according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the sensor element comprises at least one first planar surface, wherein the airflow guiding element is configured to guide the airflow through the at least one first planar surface, preferably wherein the sensor element further comprises a second planar surface, and the airflow guiding element is further configured to guide the airflow through the second planar surface.

[0117] Example E6. A cartridge according to the preceding example, wherein the at least one partition wall element comprises a first planar surface, and wherein the first planar surface of the sensor element is aligned with the first planar surface of the partition wall element, preferably wherein the at least one partition wall element further comprises a second planar surface, and wherein the second planar surface of the sensor element is aligned with the second planar surface of the partition wall element.

[0118] Example E7. The cartridge of the preceding example, wherein the first planar surface of the dividing wall element and the first planar surface of the susceptor element lie in a common plane.

[0119] Example E8. The cartridge of any preceding example, wherein the susceptor element comprises one of a mesh, a foam, or a grid.

[0120] Example E9. The cartridge of any of the preceding examples, wherein the susceptor element comprises one or more of a metal, an alloy, a conductive ceramic.

[0121] Example E10. The cartridge of any of the preceding examples, further comprising a tubular sleeve element defining at least a portion of the internal cell; and

[0122] a liquid supply passage arranged between the inner unit and the sleeve element, and

[0123] Wherein the heater component comprises a wicking element arranged to transfer the liquid aerosol-forming substrate from the liquid supply channel to the susceptor element.

[0124] Example E11. The cartridge of the preceding example, wherein the wicking element comprises one or more of a cotton-based material, a porous ceramic-based material, and a porous graphite-based material.

[0125] Example E12. The cartridge of any preceding example E10 or E11, wherein the wicking element is in direct contact with the susceptor element, preferably wherein the wicking element is sandwiched between two layers of the susceptor element.

[0126] Example E13. The cartridge of the preceding example, wherein the wicking element is in the form of a sheet, and wherein the susceptor element is U-shaped and mounted on the wicking element within the airflow path.

[0127] Example E14. A cartridge according to any one of the preceding Examples E10 to E13, wherein the tubular heater component comprises a tubular wall defining the inner airflow path, and wherein the tubular wall comprises a fluid-permeable wall portion arranged to allow a liquid aerosol-forming substrate to migrate from the liquid supply channel to the inner airflow path.

[0128] Example E15. The cartridge of the preceding example, wherein the fluid-permeable wall portion is formed by two slits in opposing side walls of the tubular heater member.

[0129] Example E16. The cartridge of the combination of example E12 and the preceding example, wherein the wicking element extends transversely across the inner airflow path and protrudes from the inner airflow path through the slit into the liquid supply channel.

[0130] Example E17. A cartridge according to any of the preceding examples E10 to E16, wherein the internal unit further comprises a tubular sealing component disposed distally of the tubular heater component, the sealing component comprising a tubular element defining a portion of the airflow path and a proximal sealing element disposed on an outer surface of the tubular element; and

[0131] wherein the inner unit is axially movable relative to the sleeve element from a blocking position, in which the proximal sealing element is arranged to block a fluid connection between the liquid storage portion and the liquid supply channel, to an open position, in which the proximal sealing element is moved to open a fluid connection between the liquid storage portion and the liquid supply channel.

[0132] Example E18. The cartridge of any of the preceding examples, wherein the airflow management component comprises at least one air inlet configured for providing air toward the airflow directing element, preferably wherein the airflow management component comprises at least two air inlets.

[0133] Example E19. A cartridge according to the preceding example, wherein the airflow management component comprises a tubular sidewall defining the inner airflow path, and wherein the at least one air inlet is located in the tubular sidewall, preferably wherein the at least two air inlets are located in the tubular sidewall.

[0134] Example E20. The cartridge of the preceding example, wherein at least two air inlets are located in the tubular sidewall, the at least two air inlets being located at opposing regions of the tubular sidewall.

[0135] Example E21. A cartridge according to example E19, wherein at least two air inlets are located in the tubular side wall, and wherein the at least two air inlets are located at opposite sides of the airflow directing element, preferably wherein the airflow directing element comprises at least one dividing wall element.

[0136] Example E22. The cartridge of example E18, wherein the airflow management component comprises a distal wall located in the inner airflow path, wherein the at least one air inlet is located in the distal wall.

[0137] Example E23. A cartridge according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the airflow management component and the tubular heater component are configured as separate structural components connected along a longitudinal axis of the internal unit, preferably wherein the airflow management component is connected to the tubular heater component via a plug connection.

[0138] Example E24. The cartridge of the preceding example, further depending upon claim 17, wherein the tubular sealing member is configured as a separate structural member, wherein the tubular sealing member is connected to the tubular heater member along a longitudinal axis of the internal unit.

[0139] Example E25. The cartridge of any preceding example, wherein a proximal portion of the cartridge is configured as a mouthpiece, preferably wherein the liquid storage portion is at least partially contained within the mouthpiece.

[0140] Example E26. The cartridge of any preceding example, wherein the liquid storage portion defines a portion of the inner gas flow path.

[0141] Example E27. An aerosol generating system comprising

[0142] A cartridge according to any of the preceding examples; and

[0143] An aerosol generating device comprises a cavity arranged to receive at least a distal portion of the cartridge, wherein the cavity is at least partially defined by an inductor coil.

[0144] Example E28. An aerosol-generating system according to the preceding example, wherein the aerosol-generating device comprises a pin element protruding from a distal face of the cavity and arranged to push against the distal airflow management component when the cartridge is inserted into the cavity.

[0145] Features described with respect to one embodiment may be equally applicable to other embodiments of the invention.

[0146] The present invention will be further described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0147] Figure 1 a to 1c show a tubular inner unit of a cartridge for use with an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the invention;

[0148] Figure 2 a and 2b show a cartridge for use with an aerosol generating device;

[0149] Figure 3 a and 3b show a cartridge for use with an aerosol generating device;

[0150] Figure 4a and 4b show an aerosol generating system;

[0151] Figure 5 a and 5b show a heater component of a cartridge for use with an aerosol generating device;

[0152] Figure 6 a and 6b show a heater component and an airflow management component of a cartridge for use with an aerosol generating device;

[0153] Figure 7 7a and 7b show a perspective side view and a corresponding top view of an airflow management component having an airflow directing element;

[0154] Figure 8 a to 8c show different air flow management components with various air inlets and air flow directing elements; and

[0155] Fig. 9 9a and 9b show different airflow management components having a distal wall comprising an air inlet that directs the airflow onto an airflow directing element of the airflow management component.

[0156] Elements having the same functions in all the following figures are marked with the same reference numerals.

[0157] In the following Figures 1 to 6 In the embodiment of the cartridge, an internal unit is described wherein the internal unit comprises a proximal tubular sealing component, an intermediate heater component, and a distal airflow management component. Figures 7 to 9 Various embodiments of airflow management components having airflow directing elements are shown.

[0158] Figure 1 a shows a tubular inner unit 10 of an aerosol generating device in a disassembled configuration. The inner unit 10 comprises a proximal tubular sealing member 20, an intermediate tubular heater member 40 comprising a susceptor element in a hollow interior thereof (not shown), and a distal tubular airflow management member 60.

[0159] The sealing member 20 includes a tubular member 22 and a proximal sealing member 24 arranged on the outer surface of the tubular member 22. The proximal sealing member 24 is provided as a continuous protrusion arranged circumferentially around the tubular member 22 of the sealing member 20. The proximal sealing member 24 is provided as a sealing lip.

[0160] The airflow management component 60 comprises a tubular sidewall 62 and a distal sealing element 64 configured as an O-ring disposed on the outer surface of the tubular sidewall 62. The O-ring is held axially in place between the first and second protrusions 66, 67 of the airflow management component 60.

[0161] Figure 1b shows the assembled configuration Figure 1 a tubular internal unit 10. The sealing component 20, the heater component 40 and the airflow management component 60 are connected in series along the longitudinal axis 12. The distal end of the heater component 40 is inserted into the proximal end of the airflow management component 60. The proximal end of the heater component 40 is inserted into the distal end of the sealing component 20. The insertion action is Figure 1 Indicated by arrows in a.

[0162] Figure 1 c shows a cross-sectional view Figure 1 b. The assembled tubular interior unit 10 of the tubular interior unit 10. The airflow management component 60 includes an air inlet 68 that allows air to enter the hollow tubular interior of the tubular interior unit 10. The air inlet 68 is spaced apart from the distal end of the airflow management component, which includes a retaining element 70 formed as a closed distal end wall of the airflow management component 60. An airflow directing element 72 protrudes from the distal end wall of the airflow management component. The airflow directing element 72 includes a partition wall element configured to direct the airflow through the surface of the susceptor element. The surface 43 of the susceptor element 42 and the surface 71 of the airflow directing element 72 are both located in the same plane 15. This allows a constant air flow to be directed from the surface of the airflow directing element toward the surface of the susceptor element so as to increase the formation of aerosol. The inner airflow path 14 is defined by the tubular interior unit 10. The inner airflow path 14 passes through the airflow directing element 72 toward the susceptor 42 of the heater component 40.

[0163] Figure 2 a shows the cartridge 100 in a disassembled configuration. The cartridge 100 comprises Figure 1 a to 1c of the internal unit 10. The cartridge 100 comprises a tubular sleeve element 80 and a mouthpiece 90.

[0164] Figure 2 b shows the assembled configuration in cross section. Figure 2 The tubular sleeve element 80 defines a portion of the inner unit 10. The liquid supply channel 82 is formed by the empty space between the inner unit 10 and the sleeve element 80. The distal sealing element 64 of the airflow management component 60 is configured to close and seal the distal end of the liquid supply channel 82.

[0165] The mouthpiece 90 includes a liquid storage portion 92 that defines a portion of the inner airflow path 14. The liquid storage portion 92 is provided by an empty space between an inner tubular wall portion 96 of the mouthpiece 90 that coaxially defines the inner airflow path 14 and an outer tubular wall portion 98 of the mouthpiece 90 that coaxially defines the liquid storage portion 92. A proximal end 94 of the mouthpiece 90 includes an air outlet. A distal end 99 of the mouthpiece 90 is attached to the proximal end 84 of the sleeve member 80. For example, permanent attachment may be achieved by ultrasonic welding.

[0166] Figure 3 FIG. 1 shows a cartridge 100 in which the air inlet 68 is located in the tubular side wall 62 of the airflow management component 60. Thus, the air inlet 68 is positioned spaced apart from the distal end of the airflow management component 60. Thus, the airflow management component 60 comprises a retaining element 70 disposed at the distal end of the airflow management component 60, wherein the retaining element 70 comprises a closed distal wall of the airflow management component 60. In addition, there is an airflow directing element 72. The airflow directing element 72 is arranged between the air inlet 68 and the susceptor element 42.

[0167] The inner unit 10 can be moved relative to the sleeve element 80. Figure 3 The blocking position shown in a is moved axially to Figure 3 b, in which the proximal sealing element 24 is arranged to block the fluid connection between the liquid storage portion 92 and the liquid supply channel 82, and in which the proximal sealing element 24 moves to open the fluid connection between the liquid storage portion 92 and the liquid supply channel 82. Figure 3 In the blocking position shown in FIG. a, the proximal sealing element 24 contacts the inner wall of the sleeve element 80 to block the fluid connection between the liquid storage portion 92 and the liquid supply passage 82. The cartridge may be purchased in the blocking position and configured to be inserted into the cavity of the aerosol generating device.

[0168] exist Figure 3 In the open position shown in FIG. 2 b , the proximal sealing element 24 moves away from the inner wall to open the fluid connection between the liquid storage portion 92 and the liquid supply channel 82. Figure 3 In the open position shown in FIG. 1 b , a liquid passage 16 has been formed, thereby allowing liquid aerosol-forming substrate to migrate from the liquid storage portion 92 into the liquid supply channel 82. The distal sealing element 64 of the airflow management component 60 seals the distal end of the liquid supply channel 82 to prevent the liquid aerosol-forming substrate from leaving the liquid supply channel 82 at its distal end in the open position. The airflow directing element 72 directs the inner airflow path 14 entering the cartridge through the air inlet 68 toward the susceptor element 42.

[0169] When the internal unit 10 is Figure 3 The blocking position shown in a is moved axially to Figure 3 In the open position shown in Fig. b, a distal portion of the inner tubular wall portion 96 of the mouthpiece 90 may slide within a proximal portion of the tubular element 22 of the sealing member 20. This axial movement may occur when the cartridge is inserted into the cavity of the aerosol generating device.

[0170] The heater component 40 comprises a fluid permeable wall portion 44 arranged to allow liquid aerosol-forming substrate to migrate from the liquid supply channel 82 into the inner airflow pathway 14 and towards the susceptor element 42 .

[0171] Figure 4 4a and 4b show the aerosol generating system in cross-section. The aerosol generating system comprises a cartridge (e.g., Figure 2 and 3 The invention relates to a cartridge 100 and an aerosol generating device 200. The aerosol generating device 200 comprises a cavity 210 arranged to receive at least a distal portion of the cartridge 100. The cavity 210 is at least partially defined by an inductor coil 220.

[0172] The aerosol generating device 200 comprises a pin element 230 protruding from a distal face of the cavity 210. The pin element 230 is arranged to push the inner unit 10 of the cartridge 100 from a blocking position into an open position when the distal portion of the cartridge 100 is inserted into the cavity 210. In particular, the pin element 230 is arranged to push the retaining element 70 of the inner unit 10. The pin element 230 may also push the distal airflow management component 60 in case the retaining element 70 is not present in the cartridge. Figure 4 b shows a configuration in which the distal portion of the cartridge 100 has been inserted into the cavity 210 and the internal unit 10 is in an open position. Thus, the liquid aerosol-forming substrate can migrate towards the susceptor 42.

[0173] In addition, in Figure 4 With the distal portion of cartridge 100 shown in b inserted into cavity 210, susceptor 42 of cartridge 100 is placed within cavity 210 so that an alternating current applied to inductor coil 220 generates an alternating magnetic field that induces a current in susceptor 42 to heat susceptor 42.

[0174] Ambient air may enter the aerosol generating system via the gap between the cartridge 100 and the aerosol generating device 200. Alternatively or additionally, the aerosol generating device 200 may comprise an air inlet (not shown) fluidly connected to the cavity 210.

[0175] Airflow route 240 Figure 4 b as dashed lines. Liquid aerosol-forming substrate located near or in contact with the heated susceptor 42 may volatilize due to the increased temperature in the region of the susceptor 42. The volatilized material may be absorbed by the airflow and may travel downstream along the airflow route 240 and through the air outlet at the proximal end 94 of the cartridge 100, where the user may inhale the cooked aerosol.

[0176] The distal end of the cartridge 100 may comprise connection means (not shown), such as magnetic connection means, configured to releasably connect to the aerosol generating device 200. The aerosol generating device 200 may comprise corresponding connection means (not shown).

[0177] Figure 5 a and 5b are perspective views ( Figure 4 a) and front view ( Figure 4 b) shows an embodiment of a heater component 40. The fluid permeable wall portion 44 is formed by two slits in opposite side walls of the tubular heater component 40. The wicking element 46 extends between and through the slits. The wicking element 46 is arranged to transfer the liquid aerosol-forming substrate from the liquid supply channel 82 to the susceptor element 42 when the heater component 40 is arranged in the sleeve element 80. The central portion of the wicking element 46 within the inner airflow path 14 is sandwiched by the susceptor element 42 presenting a U-shape.

[0178] Figure 6 a and 6b show the disassembled configuration ( Figure 6 a) and assembly structure ( Figure 6 b) an alternative embodiment of the heater component 40 and the airflow management component 60. Figure 1 The embodiments a to 1c are different. Figure 6 In the embodiments of FIGS. 6 a and 6 b , the sealing element 64 provided as an O-ring is held axially in place between the first protrusion 48 as part of the heater component 40 and the second protrusion 67 as part of the airflow management component 60 .

[0179] Figure 7 a shows a side view of the airflow management component 60 including an air inlet 68 in the side wall 62. The airflow management component 60 also includes a first protrusion 66 and a second protrusion 67 that are capable of holding the distal sealing element 64 in place. Figure 7 b shows Figure 7 1. A top view of an airflow management component 60 of FIG. 1. This top view shows that an airflow directing element 72 having a sidewall 62 is present in the inner airflow path 14 of the airflow management component 60. The top view also shows the second protrusion 67. The airflow directing element 72 is configured to direct the airflow in a targeted manner onto the surface of the susceptor element 42, which is part of the heating component 40 of the cartridge 100.

[0180] For example, Figure 5 As shown in FIGS. 5 a and 5 b , the sandwich of susceptor element 42 and wicking element 46 may also have a flat elongated form similar to the form of airflow directing element 72. This may allow airflow directing element 72 to direct airflow onto two opposing major surfaces of susceptor element 42.

[0181] Figure 8 a shows in the upper part a side view of an airflow management component 60 comprising two air inlets 68 in a first side of a tubular side wall 62. Two further air inlets 68 are present on the other side of the tubular side wall 62 which is not shown. Figure 8The figure in the middle portion of a shows an isometric perspective front view of the airflow management component 60. A first dividing wall element 72a and an opposing second dividing wall element 72b are visible, which form an airflow directing element and extend from the tubular side wall 62 into the inner airflow path 14. The first dividing wall element and the second dividing wall element are configured to direct ambient air entering the inner airflow path through the air inlet 68 towards the susceptor element 42. Figure 8 The bottom part of FIG. 1a shows in cross section the airflow path indicated by the arrows, wherein air enters the inner airflow path 14 through four air inlets 68. This airflow is further guided in the direction of the susceptor element 42 by the first and second partition wall elements.

[0182] Figure 8 b shows a side view of a different airflow management component 60 in the upper part of the figure, and Figure 8 Compared to the airflow management component shown in FIG. 1 , the airflow management component includes only one air inlet 68 on one side of the tubular side wall 62. A second air inlet is present on the other side of the tubular side wall 62 ( Figure 8 As shown in the middle part of the figure, the airflow guide element including the first partition wall element 72a and the second partition wall element 72b is connected to the Figure 8 Same as in a. Figure 8 The lower portion of b shows that the air flow indicated by arrows through the air inlet 68 is directed toward the first and second partition wall elements to be further directed onto the susceptor element 42 .

[0183] Figure 8 c shows a similar Figure 8 b shows an embodiment of an airflow management component 60. Figure 8 Compared to Figures 8a and 8b, there is an airflow directing element 72 extending between the opposite wall portions of the tubular side wall 62. This airflow directing element 72 forms a continuous bridge between the opposite wall portions of the tubular side wall 62 and can thus divide the airflow in the inner airflow path 14 into two separate portions.

[0184] Fig. 9 The embodiments of the airflow management component 60 shown in FIG. 6 all include a distal wall. Fig. 9 In the embodiment shown in a, there are two air inlets 68 in the distal wall, which are configured to allow air to enter the inner airflow path 14 towards the airflow directing element 72. Fig. 9 There is only one air inlet 68 in the distal wall of the airflow management component 60 shown in b.

Claims

1. A cartridge for use with an aerosol generating device, comprising a liquid storage portion for holding a liquid aerosol-forming substrate; an inner gas flow path extending between the proximal and distal ends of the barrel; and a tubular inner cell defining at least a portion of said inner airflow path; wherein the internal unit comprises a tubular heater component including a susceptor element arranged in the inner airflow path, wherein the internal unit comprises a distal airflow management component including an airflow directing element arranged in the inner airflow path, and The airflow guiding element is configured to guide airflow across a surface of the susceptor element.

2. The cartridge of claim 1, wherein the airflow management component comprises a tubular sidewall defining the inner airflow path, and wherein the airflow directing element comprises at least one dividing wall element extending from the tubular sidewall into the inner airflow path.

3. Cartridge according to the preceding claim, wherein the airflow directing element comprises a first dividing wall element extending from the tubular side wall into the inner airflow path and an opposing second dividing wall element extending from the tubular side wall into the inner airflow path.

4. The cartridge of claim 2, wherein the dividing wall element extends between opposing wall portions of the tubular side wall.

5. A cartridge according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the receptor element comprises at least one first planar surface, wherein the airflow guiding element is configured to guide the airflow through the at least one first planar surface, preferably wherein the receptor element further comprises a second planar surface, and the airflow guiding element is further configured to guide the airflow through the second planar surface.

6. The cartridge of any of the preceding claims, wherein the susceptor element comprises one or more of a metal, an alloy, a receptive wicking element comprising susceptor particles dispersed within the wicking element, a conductive ceramic.

7. Cartridge according to the preceding claim, wherein the fluid permeable wall portion is formed by two slits in opposite side walls of the tubular heater member.

8. The cartridge according to the preceding claim, wherein the wicking element is in direct contact with the susceptor element and extends transversely across the inner gas flow path and protrudes from the inner gas flow path through the slit into the liquid supply channel.

9. A cartridge according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the air flow management component comprises at least one air inlet configured for providing air towards the air flow directing element, preferably wherein the air flow management component comprises at least two air inlets.

10. A cartridge according to the preceding claim, wherein the airflow management component comprises a tubular sidewall defining the inner airflow path, and wherein the at least one air inlet is located in the tubular sidewall, preferably wherein the at least two air inlets are located in the tubular sidewall.

11. Cartridge according to the preceding claim, wherein at least two air inlets are located in the tubular side wall, the at least two air inlets being located at opposite regions of the tubular side wall.

12. A cartridge according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the airflow management component and the tubular heater component are configured as separate structural components connected along a longitudinal axis of the internal unit, preferably wherein the airflow management component is connected to the tubular heater component via a plug connection.

13. The cartridge according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a proximal portion of the cartridge is configured as a mouthpiece, preferably wherein the liquid storage portion is at least partially comprised in the mouthpiece.

14. An aerosol generating system comprising A cartridge according to any preceding claim; and An aerosol generating device comprises a cavity arranged to receive at least a distal portion of the cartridge, wherein the cavity is at least partially defined by an inductor coil.

15. An aerosol generating system according to the preceding claim, wherein the aerosol generating device comprises a pin element protruding from a distal face of the cavity and arranged to push against the distal airflow management component when the cartridge is inserted into the cavity.

Images