Aerosol-generating device for spherical consumables

Abstract

An aerosol-generating device includes an elongate body extending from a distal end to a proximal end and a power source disposed in the elongate body. The proximal end includes an aerosol-generating article receptacle defining a first portion of a spherical or elliptical shape. An inductor is electrically coupled to the power source and disposed along the aerosol-generating article receptacle. The aerosol-generating device also includes a mouthpiece element extending from the coupling end to the air outlet end. The coupling end is configured to be coupled to the proximal end of the elongate body. An airflow passage extends from the coupling end to the air outlet end.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure particularly relates to an aerosol generating apparatus for spherical or elliptical consumables. Specifically, this disclosure relates to an induction-heated aerosol generating apparatus configured to receive spherical or elliptical aerosol-generated articles, and systems and methods for using the apparatus. Background Technology

[0002] Aerosol generating apparatuses are typically configured to release aerosols by heating a solid, liquid, or amorphous form of an aerosol-forming matrix. An exemplary aerosol generating apparatus includes an elongated body having a power supply unit, a control unit, and a heating chamber into which the aerosol-generating article is introduced. For example, the heating chamber typically includes a heating device, such as a thermal resistance device or an induction heating device.

[0003] Aerosol-generating articles that generate aerosols from an aerosol-generating matrix without requiring combustion of the aerosol-generating matrix are known. Because the aerosol-generating matrix is ​​heated to a relatively low temperature to induce aerosol formation but combustion of the materials contained within the aerosol-generating matrix is ​​prevented, such articles are often referred to as "heat-non-combustible" aerosol-generating articles. These aerosol-generating articles are combined with aerosol-generating devices to form aerosol-generating systems.

[0004] Efforts to improve aerosol generation systems aim to maximize active ingredient yield and energy efficiency. Generally, once the aerosol generation matrix near the heating element (of the heating device) has released the desired aerosol, the dried aerosol generation matrix becomes less effective at transferring heat to aerosol generation matrix sections further away from the heating element. Therefore, the heating element needs to be raised to a higher temperature to further heat the aerosol generation matrix sections to the desired temperature, resulting in reduced energy efficiency.

[0005] To achieve more uniform heating of aerosol-generating articles, designs tend to combine planar geometry of the sensor with cylindrical geometry of the matrix and sensor. This arrangement enables more uniform heating of the aerosol-generating matrix contained within the aerosol-generating article. While these designs have shown promise, further efficiency improvements are needed by exploring different component geometries for aerosol-generating articles. Summary of the Invention

[0006] An aerosol generating apparatus is desired that improves the heating uniformity of the aerosol-generating product. An aerosol generating apparatus with improved energy efficiency is also desired. An aerosol generating apparatus that can utilize aerosol-generating products that are not planar but spherical or elliptical in shape is also desired. An aerosol generating apparatus that provides improved user satisfaction and ease of operation is also desired.

[0007] This invention relates to an aerosol generating apparatus for spherical or elliptical consumables. In particular, this invention relates to an induction-heated aerosol generating apparatus configured to receive spherical or elliptical aerosol-generated articles, and systems and methods for using the apparatus.

[0008] This invention provides an aerosol generating apparatus comprising an elongated body extending from a distal end to a proximal end and a power source disposed within the elongated body. The proximal end includes an aerosol generating article receiving portion defining a first portion of a spherical or elliptical shape. A sensor is electrically connected to the power source and disposed along the aerosol generating article receiving portion. The aerosol generating apparatus also includes a mouthpiece element extending from a connection end to an air outlet end. The connection end is configured to connect to the proximal end of the elongated body. An airflow passage extends from the connection end to the air outlet end.

[0009] The mouthpiece element may include a second portion of an aerosol-generating article receiving portion, the second portion of which defines a spherical or elliptical shape. A second sensor is electrically connected to a power source and may be disposed along the second portion of the aerosol-generating article receiving portion. When the mouthpiece element is coupled to an elongated body, the first and second portions of the aerosol-generating article receiving portion may cooperate to form a spherical or elliptical shape.

[0010] Aerosol generating apparatuses with spherical or elliptical containers for receiving spherical or elliptical aerosol-generated articles advantageously provide improved user satisfaction and ease of operation. By providing spherical or elliptical containers for receiving similar aerosol-generated articles, the loading and unloading procedures for consumables are simplified.

[0011] An aerosol generating apparatus having a spherical or elliptical containment portion includes a sensor along the aerosol generating article containment portion. Such an aerosol generating apparatus advantageously provides improved heating performance and heat distribution along the aerosol generating article containment portion. The sensor provides a more uniform heat distribution to the received aerosol generating article, reducing the possibility of aerosol overheating and uneven release.

[0012] The present invention provides an aerosol generation system, comprising the aerosol generation apparatus described herein, and an aerosol generation article having a spherical or elliptical shape and being sized to be received tightly in an aerosol generation article receiving portion.

[0013] The aerosol generating article may include an aerosol generating matrix and receptor particles distributed throughout the aerosol generating matrix. The aerosol generating article may include an aerosol generating matrix and a centrally located receptor core within the aerosol generating matrix. Alternatively or additionally, the aerosol generating apparatus may also include a receptor forming at least a portion of the wall of the aerosol generating article receiving portion.

[0014] This invention provides a method for using the aerosol generation system described herein. The method includes inserting an aerosol generation article having a spherical or elliptical shape into an aerosol generation article receiving portion of an aerosol generation apparatus, attaching a mouthpiece element to the proximal end of an elongated body, activating a sensor to generate aerosol from the aerosol generation article, and drawing aspiration from the mouthpiece element to draw the aerosol from the aerosol generation article to the air outlet end of the mouthpiece element.

[0015] Advantageously, the present invention can allow for increased aerosol generation efficiency. The use of spherical or elliptical shapes for the containment and aerosol generation articles provides increased surface area for heating and aerosol generation. Compared to planar or cylindrical shapes, the spherical or elliptical shape of the aerosol generation articles and containment optimizes the surface area, potentially resulting in a higher aerosol release rate. The overall concentricity and coaxial alignment of the heating element and the spherical or elliptical aerosol generation articles produces effective heating of the aerosol-forming matrix within the aerosol generation articles. The present invention can allow for reduced material usage. Using spherical or elliptical shapes allows for the use of less material to achieve the same amount of aerosol release because the spherical or elliptical aerosol generation articles utilize the aerosol-generating material more efficiently.

[0016] As used herein, unless the content explicitly indicates otherwise, the singular forms “a” and “the” also cover embodiments with plural references.

[0017] As used in this text, "having," "containing," "including," etc., are used in their open sense and generally mean "including (but not limited to)." It should be understood that phrases such as "basically composed of," "composed of," etc., fall under the category of "including."

[0018] The terms "preferred" and "ideally" refer to embodiments of the invention that provide certain benefits in certain circumstances. However, other embodiments may also be preferred in the same or other circumstances. Furthermore, the description of one or more preferred embodiments does not imply that other embodiments are useless, and is not intended to exclude other embodiments from the scope of this disclosure, including the claims.

[0019] Any directions or orientations mentioned herein, such as “top,” “bottom,” “left,” “right,” “up,” “down,” and other directions or orientations, are described for clarity and brevity and are not intended to limit the actual apparatus or system. The apparatuses and systems described herein can be used in multiple directions and orientations.

[0020] As used herein, "downstream" and "proximal" refer to the mouthpiece end of the aerosol generating device. "Downstream" and "proximal" refer to the ends of the aerosol generating device intended to be contacted by the user's mouth. "Upstream" and "distal" refer to the opposite ends of the aerosol generating device.

[0021] As used herein, “tobacco” means plant material, such as the leaves, stems, or other parts of any of the plants belonging to the genus Nicotiana (such as common tobacco (N. tabacum)). Preferably, tobacco includes leaves, stems, or leaves and stems.

[0022] As used herein, a “controller” is one or more hardware devices, one or more software or firmware programs, or one or more hardware devices and software or firmware programs that manage or direct data flow between two or more entities. A controller may include memory, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) state machine, a digital signal processor, a gate array, a microprocessor, or equivalent discrete or integrated logic circuitry. A controller may include memory containing instructions that cause one or more components of circuitry to perform the functions of the controller. Functions attributable to a controller in this disclosure may be embodied in one or more of software, firmware, and hardware. A controller may include a microprocessor. The operation of one or more controllers in a system may be coordinated by an overall system controller.

[0023] As used herein, the term "aerosol" refers to a suspension of solid particles or liquid droplets, or a combination of solid particles and liquid droplets in a gas. The gas may be air. The solid particles or liquid droplets may include one or more volatile flavor compounds. Aerosols may be visible or invisible. Aerosols may include substances that are typically liquid or solid at room temperature. Aerosols may include substances that are typically liquid or solid at room temperature, in combination with solid particles, or in combination with liquid droplets, or in combination with both solid particles and liquid droplets. Aerosols preferably contain nicotine.

[0024] The term "aerosol generating device" is used herein to refer to any device configured for use or utilization with an aerosol generating article that releases volatile compounds to form an aerosol that can be inhaled by a user. The aerosol generating device may be connected to an aerosol generating article that includes an aerosol forming matrix.

[0025] As used herein, the term "aerosol generating article" refers to a disposable product capable of including (e.g., holding, containing, having, or storing) an aerosol forming matrix. An aerosol generating article may be removably connected, docked, or mated with an aerosol generating device. This allows the aerosol generating device to generate aerosols from the aerosol forming matrix of the aerosol generating article.

[0026] An aerosol generating apparatus includes an elongated body extending from a distal end to a proximal end and a power source disposed within the elongated body. The proximal end includes an aerosol generating article receiving portion defining a first part of a spherical or elliptical shape or cavity. A sensor is electrically connected to the power source and disposed along the aerosol generating article receiving portion. The aerosol generating apparatus also includes a mouthpiece element extending from a connection end to an air outlet end. The connection end is configured to connect to the proximal end of the elongated body. An airflow passage extends from the connection end to the air outlet end.

[0027] The mouthpiece element may include a second portion of an aerosol generation article receiving portion, the second portion of which defines a spherical or elliptical shape. A second sensor electrically connected to a power source may be disposed along the second portion of the aerosol generation article receiving portion. When the mouthpiece element is coupled to an elongated body, the first and second portions of the aerosol generation article receiving portion may cooperate to form a spherical or elliptical shape.

[0028] The mouthpiece element is detachable (disengaged position) from the elongated body and replaceably attached to the proximal end of the elongated body. The mouthpiece element can be disconnected from the elongated body, allowing the consumer to insert the aerosol generating article into the exposed aerosol generating article receiving portion on the elongated body. Once the aerosol generating article is received in the aerosol generating article receiving portion, the mouthpiece element can be attached or attached to the elongated body at the proximal end of the elongated body.

[0029] Once the mouthpiece element is engaged (engaged position) or attached to the elongated body at the proximal end of the elongated body, the mouthpiece element can snap into place or slide a lateral distance over the proximal end of the elongated body.

[0030] The aerosol generating device includes a power source for the heating element. The power source can be an in-device battery, such as a lithium iron phosphate battery. Alternatively, the power source can be another form of charge storage device, such as a capacitor. For example, the power source may need to be recharged via a charging port and may have a capacity that allows sufficient energy to be stored for the consumption of one or more aerosol-generating articles. For instance, the power source may have sufficient capacity to allow continuous aerosol generation for approximately six minutes, corresponding to the typical time required to smoke a regular cigarette, or for multiples of six minutes. In another example, the power source may have sufficient capacity to allow for a predetermined number of puffs or intermittent activation of the sensor heating element.

[0031] The aerosol generating article receiving portion defines a first part of a spherical or elliptical shape or cavity, which is configured to fit or tightly engage with a replaceable aerosol generating article. The first part of the spherical or elliptical shape or cavity may define a hemisphere or half of a spherical cavity.

[0032] The sensor may be disposed along a first portion of the aerosol generating article receiving portion and define a spherical or elliptical shape or cavity. The sensor may define a spherical cap. The sensor may define a spherical segment. The sensor may define a hemisphere. The sensor may be defined by a helical coil. The sensor element on the first portion of the spherical or elliptical shape or cavity may be flush with at least a portion of the outer surface of the first portion of the aerosol generating article receiving portion.

[0033] The sensor element is connected to an induction heating element to generate heat from the sensor element. The sensor element may be disposed on the surface of the first portion of the aerosol generating article receiving portion or formed on a part of the surface. The sensor element may be disposed on or within the aerosol generating article received in the aerosol generating article receiving portion.

[0034] The controller can be housed within the elongated body and electrically connected to the power source and sensors. A switch can be located on the main housing of the elongated body and configured to control the power supplied to the controller or control unit. The switch can be an on / off element. The controller can automatically deactivate the sensors when the aerosol generating device is not in the engaged position.

[0035] The mouthpiece element may include a second portion of an aerosol-generating article receiving portion. This second portion may define a spherical or elliptical shape or a cavity. In the engaged position, the first and second portions of the aerosol-generating article receiving portion mate with each other to form a complete spherical or elliptical cavity. This complete spherical or elliptical cavity matches or fits snugly with a replaceable aerosol-generating article.

[0036] The first and second portions of the aerosol generation article housing, forming a complete spherical or elliptical aerosol generation article housing or cavity, can cooperate to form an airtight seal. The airtightness of the entire aerosol generation article housing or cavity is ensured by providing an impermeable seal along the periphery of each hemisphere. An airtight sealing element can separate the first and second portions of the aerosol generation article housing and provide an impermeable seal between the first and second portions to form a complete spherical or elliptical aerosol generation article housing or cavity. The airtight sealing element can be formed of silicone rubber, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM), neoprene rubber, or butyl rubber. Therefore, airflow enters the entire aerosol generation article housing or cavity only through the air inlet and exits only through the airflow channel connecting the entire aerosol generation article housing or cavity to the air outlet of the mouthpiece element.

[0037] The second part may include a second sensor electrically connected to a power source and disposed along the second part of the aerosol generation article receiving portion. The second sensor may define a portion of a spherical or elliptical shape or cavity. The second sensor may define a spherical cap. The second sensor may define a spherical segment. The second sensor may define a hemisphere. The second sensor may be defined by a helical coil. The second sensor on the second part of the spherical or elliptical shape or cavity may be flush with at least a portion of the outer surface of the second part of the aerosol generation article receiving portion.

[0038] The sensor element is connected to an induction heating element to generate heat from the sensor element. The sensor element may be disposed on the surface of the second part of the aerosol generating article receiving portion or formed on part of the surface. The sensor element may be disposed on or within the aerosol generating article received in the aerosol generating article receiving portion.

[0039] The aerosol generation article receiving portion is defined on the proximal end of an elongated body. The aerosol generation article receiving portion may be defined on a fixed element at the proximal end of the elongated body. The aerosol generation article receiving portion may be defined on a movable element at the proximal end of the elongated body. The aerosol generation article receiving portion may be defined on an element that pivots about a pivot axis.

[0040] The aerosol-generating article containment may be defined on a pivoting unit that cooperates with the mouthpiece element and pivots about a pivot axis between an open and closed position as the mouthpiece element moves from a disengaged position to an engaged position. This allows the mouthpiece element to be displaced from a disengaged position to an engaged position, in which the proximal ends of the mouthpiece element and the elongated body surround the pivoting unit therebetween.

[0041] The pivoting unit has a pivot axis that extends through the aerosol-generating article receiving portion. The pivot axis may extend orthogonally to the longitudinal axis of the elongated body. The pivoting unit may be V-shaped and integrate a hook-shaped recessed section centered along its longitudinal axis (defining the first portion of the aerosol-generating article receiving portion). The pivot axis may be orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the pivoting unit.

[0042] The pivoting unit is rotatable relative to the elongated body between a disengaged position and an engaged position. In the disengaged position, the pivoting unit is tilted such that the recessed section (defining the first portion of the aerosol-generating article receiving portion) is oriented toward the open end of the proximal end of the elongated body or the inlet formed by the open space between the proximal end of the elongated body and the connecting end of the mouthpiece element. In the engaged position, the longitudinal axis of the pivoting unit is linearly oriented relative to the elongated body. In other words, in the engaged position, the longitudinal axis of the pivoting unit is aligned with the longitudinal axis of the elongated body.

[0043] The pivoting unit can be rotatably mounted to the proximal end of the elongated body via a mounting pin protruding from the side of the pivoting unit. Alternatively, the pivoting unit can be supported in a floating manner and thus loosely supported within the proximal end of the elongated body via a support surface on the inner wall of the proximal end of the elongated body.

[0044] The pivoting unit can rotate about a pivot axis by at least about 10 degrees, or at least about 20 degrees, or at least about 25 degrees, or at least about 30 degrees. The pivoting unit can rotate about 10 degrees to about 90 degrees about a pivot axis. The pivoting unit can rotate about 10 degrees to about 75 degrees about a pivot axis. The pivoting unit can rotate about 20 degrees to about 60 degrees about a pivot axis. The pivoting unit can rotate about 25 degrees to about 55 degrees about a pivot axis.

[0045] In the disengaged position, the pivoting unit can be pre-tensioned against the surface of the elongated body via a biasing element, wherein the pivoting unit remains tilted toward it. The biasing element can be positioned between the pivoting unit and the proximal end of the elongated body, biasing the pivoting unit toward the open position. The biasing element is preferably a spring.

[0046] At one end, the biasing element contacts the proximal corner of the elongated body. At the opposite end, the biasing element contacts the angled edge of the pivoting unit. The biasing element can be any type of suitable compression or torsion element, such as a wire spring, helical spring, or coil spring.

[0047] The mouthpiece element connection end may include an engagement extension that, when the mouthpiece element moves from a disengaged position to an engaged position, contacts a pivoting unit and drives the pivoting unit from an open position to a closed position. The engagement extension may extend parallel to the longitudinal axis of the elongated body and the mouthpiece element. The engagement extension may include a pawl element on its free end. The pawl element secures the pivoting unit in the engaged or closed position.

[0048] During the engagement or joining movement of the mouthpiece element toward or towards the elongated body, the engagement extension is axially driven through the insertion path along the sidewall of the proximal end of the elongated body and against the curved bottom edge of the pivot unit (if present). The engagement extension applies a compressive force to the pivot unit, which overcomes the compressive force of the biasing element, thereby compressing the biasing element and acting as a lever by pushing the pivot unit toward its engaged state (entering linear orientation). After reaching the inserted end, the pawl element of the engagement extension cooperates with a receiving groove formed at the proximal end of the elongated body to create a snap-fit ​​engagement. After reaching the inserted end or engaged position, the distal end of the pivot unit may rest within a mating portion defined between the sidewall of the engagement extension and the sidewall of the airflow passage in the mouthpiece element.

[0049] An elongated body or mouthpiece element defines an air inlet channel into the aerosol generation article receiving portion. Upon engagement, the gap between the pivoting unit and the inclined edge defines an air inlet that allows air to travel into the aerosol generation article receiving portion and into the received aerosol generation article, and then this air travels into the airflow channel of the mouthpiece element and exits from the air outlet of the mouthpiece element.

[0050] The aerosol generation system includes the aerosol generation apparatus described herein and an aerosol generation article having a spherical or elliptical shape and size for close reception in an aerosol generation article receptacle. The aerosol generation article includes an aerosol forming matrix that releases aerosols upon heating.

[0051] Aerosol-generated articles are in a solid state. Solid state can be defined as a state where the material is not fluid, but rather retains its boundaries without support. In a solid state, the material retains its shape or substantially returns to its shape after elastic deformation. In particular, the shape of an aerosol-generated article remains firm and stable even when held by a user for consumption with an aerosol-generating device.

[0052] Aerosol-generating articles can have a longest dimension that is less than twice the shortest dimension of the aerosol-generating article. Aerosol-generating articles can have convex shapes, particularly spherical or elliptical shapes. Elliptical shapes are quasi-spherical shapes, such as oval shapes.

[0053] The longest dimension of the aerosol-generating article can be greater than about 7 mm, and particularly less than about 21 mm. The longest dimension of the aerosol-generating article can range from about 7 mm to about 16 mm. The particle size of the aerosol-generating article advantageously allows for the manipulation of individual aerosol-generating articles for consumption. The size of the aerosol-generating article enables the delivery of a desired amount of aerosol to the consumer. In particular, when consumed using an aerosol-generating device, the aerosol-generating article can deliver 5 to 20 aspirations, preferably 10 to 13 aspirations, more preferably 11 to 12 aspirations.

[0054] The aerosol-forming matrix may include tobacco and an aerosol-forming agent. The aerosol-forming matrix may also include at least one of tobacco leaf blends, cellulose fibers, tobacco fibers, and a binder. The tobacco leaf blend may include at least one tobacco type selected from flue-cured, sun-cured, and aromatic tobacco. The particle size of the tobacco leaf blend may be between 100 and 380 mesh, particularly between 170 and 320 mesh. The binder may include or be made from the following: natural pectin (such as fruit, i.e., citrus) or tobacco pectin; guar gum, locust bean gum, such as its hydroxyethyl or hydroxypropyl derivatives; starch, such as modified or derivatized starch; alginate; methyl, ethyl, ethylhydroxymethyl, and carboxymethyl cellulose; dextran; and xanthan gum. In a preferred embodiment, the binder in the first compound is made from guar gum. Aerosol forming agents can be: glycerol; monohydric alcohols, such as menthol; polyhydric alcohols, such as triethylene glycol; esters of polyhydric alcohols, such as mono-, di-, or triacetic esters of glycerol; and aliphatic esters of mono-, di-, or polycarboxylic acids, such as dimethyl esters of these. The aerosol forming matrix may also contain wetting agents, such as glycerol, propylene glycol, or triethylene glycol.

[0055] The aerosol-forming matrix may contain about 15% to about 45% by weight, or about 20% to about 35% by weight, of tobacco or tobacco leaf blend. The aerosol-forming matrix may contain at least about 5% by weight, or at least about 10% by weight, of aerosol-forming agent. The aerosol-forming matrix may contain less than about 35% by weight, or less than about 30% by weight, of aerosol-forming agent. The aerosol-forming matrix may contain about 1% to about 10% by weight, or about 1% to about 5% by weight, of binder. The aerosol-forming matrix may contain about 1% to about 15% by weight, or about 3% to about 7% by weight, of cellulose fibers. The aerosol-forming matrix may have a moisture content of about 5% to about 35% by weight, or about 10% to about 25% by weight.

[0056] The aerosol-forming matrix may contain at least one flavor substance. The flavor substance may be at least partially absorbed into the aerosol-forming matrix. The flavor substance may contain at least one flavoring component. The flavor substance may be natural, such as natural menthol. Alternatively, the flavor substance may be artificial, such as synthetic menthol. The flavor substance may contain essential oils. The flavor substance may contain at least one of organic plant-based glycerin, organic plant extracts, and plant essential oils. The flavor substance may contain allyl hexanoate, benzyl alcohol, citral, ethanol, litsea oil, lemon oil, lime oil, L-menthol, menthol, peppermint (such as peppermint or spearmint), sweet orange oil, terpene-free orange oil, orange terpene, terpene-free mandarin orange oil, tobacco flavoring, or combinations thereof.

[0057] The aerosol generating article may include an aerosol forming matrix and does not contain a sensor. In this embodiment, the aerosol generating article is heated by conduction from a sensor forming a portion of the aerosol generating article containment.

[0058] Aerosol generating articles may include an aerosol forming matrix and receptor particles distributed throughout the aerosol forming matrix. The receptor particles may be uniformly distributed throughout the aerosol forming matrix. Aerosol generating articles may contain about 10% to about 40% by weight of receptor particles. Aerosol generating articles may contain about 15% to about 30% by weight of receptor particles.

[0059] Aerosol generating articles may include an aerosol forming matrix and a centrally located receptor within the aerosol forming matrix. The centrally located receptor may define about 10% to about 50% of the total volume of the aerosol generating article.

[0060] Receptor particles or receptors can be conductive components that convert electromagnetic energy into heat. When placed in an alternating electromagnetic field, eddy currents are induced, and hysteresis losses occur in the receptor (if the receptor is magnetic), causing the receptor to heat up.

[0061] The sensor can be a paramagnetic, ferromagnetic, or ferrimagnetic material. The sensor can contain metals. The sensor can contain aluminum, iron, nickel, copper, bronze, cobalt, ordinary carbon steel, stainless steel, ferritic stainless steel, martensitic stainless steel, or austenitic stainless steel. The sensor can contain Inconel alloys (a superalloy based on austenitic nickel-chromium). The sensor can contain transition metals such as, for example, Fe, Co, Ni, or metalloid components such as, for example, B, C, Si, P, Al. The sensor can contain nickel-iron high-permeability alloys (mu-metal) or permalloy. The sensor can contain carbon materials or be made of carbon materials. The sensor can contain graphite, molybdenum, silicon carbide, niobium, ceramics such as, for example, zirconium oxide, or be made of graphite, molybdenum, silicon carbide, niobium, ceramics such as, for example, zirconium oxide. The sensor material can be heated to temperatures exceeding 250 degrees Celsius.

[0062] The sensing device (using one or more sensing elements or sensors) can be configured to generate an alternating magnetic field that induces eddy currents in or near the sensors of the aerosol-generating article. These eddy currents then generate heat, which causes volatile compounds contained in the aerosol-forming matrix of the aerosol-generating article to evaporate.

[0063] A method of using an aerosol generation system includes inserting an aerosol generation article having a spherical or elliptical shape into an aerosol generation article receiving portion of an aerosol generation device, and attaching a mouthpiece element to the proximal end of an elongated body. The use then activates a heating element to generate aerosol from the aerosol generation article. The consumer can then inhale through the mouthpiece element to draw the generated aerosol from the aerosol generation article to the air outlet of the mouthpiece element.

[0064] The aerosol-generating article receiving portion can be fixed, or pivot from an open position to a closed position when the mouthpiece element is engaged with the proximal end of the elongated body. The mouthpiece element can slide onto the proximal end of the elongated body in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the elongated body. The aerosol-generating article receiving portion can pivot about a pivot axis, and the pivot axis can be orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the elongated body. The mouthpiece element slides onto the proximal end of the elongated body, and the aerosol-generating article receiving portion can pivot simultaneously.

[0065] The consumer can deactivate the heating element and move the mouthpiece element from the engaged position to the disengaged position, optionally disconnecting or removing the mouthpiece element from the proximal end of the elongated body. The consumer then removes the aerosol-generating article from the aerosol-generating article receiving section. The consumer can deactivate the heating element by pressing a switch electrically connected to the controller.

[0066] The aerosol generating device can automatically deactivate the heating element. The heating element automatically deactivates when the aerosol generating device is moved from the engaged position. The heating element automatically deactivates when the mouthpiece element is slid from the engaged position to the disengaged position or when the mouthpiece element is separated from or removed from the proximal end of the elongated body. Once in the disengaged position, the consumer can remove the aerosol generating article from the aerosol generating article receiving section and optionally replace the used aerosol generating article with a new one.

[0067] The following is a non-exhaustive list of non-limiting examples. Any one or more features of these examples may be combined with any one or more features of another example or embodiment described herein.

[0068] Example Ex1: An aerosol generating apparatus includes: an elongated body extending from a distal end to a proximal end; a power source disposed in the elongated body, the proximal end including an aerosol generating article receiving portion defining a first portion of a spherical or elliptical shape; a sensor electrically connected to the power source and disposed along the aerosol generating article receiving portion; and a mouthpiece element extending from a connection end to an air outlet end, the connection end being configured to be connected to the proximal end of the elongated body, an airflow passage extending from the connection end to the air outlet end.

[0069] Example Ex2: An aerosol generating apparatus according to Ex1, wherein the mouthpiece element includes a second portion of the aerosol generating article receiving portion, the second portion of the aerosol generating article receiving portion defining a spherical or elliptical second portion.

[0070] Example Ex3: The aerosol generating apparatus according to Ex2 further includes a second sensor, which is electrically connected to the power source and disposed along a second portion of the aerosol generating article receiving portion.

[0071] Example Ex4: An aerosol generating apparatus according to Ex2 or Ex3, wherein when the mouthpiece element is connected to the elongated body, the first portion of the aerosol generating article receiving portion and the second portion of the aerosol generating article receiving portion cooperate to form a spherical or elliptical shape.

[0072] Example Ex5: An aerosol generating apparatus according to any of the foregoing examples, wherein the elongated body includes a controller electrically connected to the power source and the sensor.

[0073] Example Ex6: An aerosol generating apparatus according to any of the foregoing examples, wherein the elongated body or the mouthpiece element defines an air inlet passage into the aerosol generating article receiving portion.

[0074] Example Ex7: An aerosol generating apparatus according to Ex1, wherein the sensor is flush with at least a portion of the outer surface of the first part of the aerosol generating article receiving portion.

[0075] Example Ex8: An aerosol generating apparatus according to Ex2, wherein the second sensor is flush with at least a portion of the outer surface of the second part of the aerosol generating article receiving portion.

[0076] Example Ex9: An aerosol generating apparatus according to Ex7, wherein the sensor is a helical coil.

[0077] Example Ex10: The aerosol generating apparatus according to Ex8, wherein the second sensor is a helical coil.

[0078] Example Ex11: An aerosol generating apparatus according to any of the foregoing examples, wherein the aerosol generating article receiving portion includes an airtight sealing element.

[0079] Example Ex12: An aerosol generation system comprising: an aerosol generation apparatus according to any of the foregoing examples; and an aerosol generation article having a spherical or elliptical shape and being sized to be received tightly within the aerosol generation article receiving portion.

[0080] Example Ex13: An aerosol generation system according to Ex12, wherein the aerosol generation article comprises an aerosol generation matrix and receptor particles distributed throughout the aerosol generation matrix.

[0081] Example Ex14: An aerosol generation system according to Ex12, wherein the aerosol generation article includes an aerosol generation matrix and a centrally located receptor core within the aerosol generation matrix.

[0082] Example Ex15: An aerosol generation system according to Ex12, wherein the aerosol generation article includes an aerosol generation matrix, and wherein the device further includes a sensor forming at least a portion of the wall of the aerosol generation article receiving portion.

[0083] Example Ex16: A method using an aerosol generation system according to Ex12, the method comprising: inserting an aerosol generation article having a spherical or elliptical shape into an aerosol generation article receiving portion of the aerosol generation apparatus; attaching the mouthpiece element to a proximal end of the elongated body; activating the sensor to generate an aerosol from the aerosol generation article; and drawing the aerosol from the aerosol generation article to an air outlet end of the mouthpiece element.

[0084] Example Ex17: The method according to Ex16 further includes: deactivating the sensor; removing the mouthpiece element from the proximal end of the elongated body; and removing the aerosol generating article from the aerosol generating article receiving portion. Attached Figure Description

[0085] The examples will now be described further with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0086] Figure 1 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of an exemplary aerosol generating device in the disengaged position;

[0087] Figure 2 It is in a disengaged position. Figure 1 A perspective view of an exemplary aerosol generation device;

[0088] Figure 3 It is in the mating position. Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of an exemplary aerosol generation device;

[0089] Figure 4 It is in the mating position. Figure 1 A perspective view of an exemplary aerosol generation device;

[0090] Figure 5 It is in a detached position and receives aerosol-generated products. Figure 1A perspective view of an exemplary aerosol generation device;

[0091] Figure 6 It is in a detached position and receives aerosol-generated products. Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of an exemplary aerosol generation device;

[0092] Figure 7 It is in a disengaged position. Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of an exemplary aerosol generating apparatus and an aerosol generating article received in the aerosol generating article receiving portion of the aerosol generating apparatus.

[0093] Figure 8 It shows the sliding from the disengaged position toward the engaged position. Figure 1 A close-up schematic cross-sectional view of an exemplary aerosol generation device;

[0094] Figure 9 It shows the sliding engagement position. Figure 1 A close-up schematic cross-sectional view of an exemplary aerosol generating apparatus, wherein the aerosol generated article is received in the aerosol generated article receiving section of the aerosol generating apparatus.

[0095] Figure 10 The image shows a device in the engaged position and operated to generate an aerosol from an aerosol generating article received in the aerosol generating article containment. Figure 1 A close-up schematic cross-sectional view of an exemplary aerosol generation device;

[0096] Figure 11 It is a perspective top view of the exemplary pivot unit;

[0097] Figure 12 yes Figure 11 A schematic cross-sectional view of the exemplary pivoting unit taken along line AA;

[0098] Figures 13A-13D It is a perspective view of aerosol-generating products and associated heating elements with different structures;

[0099] Figure 14 It is a schematic cross-sectional view of an exemplary aerosol-generated product;

[0100] Figure 15 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of another exemplary aerosol-generated product;

[0101] Figures 16A-16B It is a perspective view of the aerosol-generating articles and the associated heating elements of different structures, as well as the first and second parts of the spherical or elliptical shape or cavity;

[0102] Figure 17This is a schematic diagram illustrating a method using the aerosol generation system described herein. Detailed Implementation

[0103] Figure 1 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the exemplary aerosol generating device 100 in the disengaged position. Figure 2 It is in a disengaged position. Figure 1 A perspective view of the exemplary aerosol generating apparatus 100. Figure 3 It is in the mating position. Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of the exemplary aerosol generating device 100. Figure 4 It is in the mating position. Figure 1 A perspective view of the exemplary aerosol generating apparatus 100. Figure 5 It is in the detached position and receives the aerosol-generating product 160. Figure 1 A perspective view of the exemplary aerosol generating apparatus 100. Figure 6 It is in the detached position and receives the aerosol-generating product 160. Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of the exemplary aerosol generating device 100. Figure 7 It is in a disengaged position. Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of an exemplary aerosol generating apparatus 100 and an aerosol generating article 160 received in an aerosol generating article receiving section 130 of the aerosol generating apparatus 100. Figure 8 It shows the sliding from the disengaged position toward the engaged position. Figure 1 A close-up schematic cross-sectional view of the exemplary aerosol generating device 100. Figure 9 It shows the sliding engagement position. Figure 1 A close-up schematic cross-sectional view of an exemplary aerosol generating apparatus 100, wherein an aerosol generating article 160 is received in an aerosol generating article receiving portion 130 of the aerosol generating apparatus 100. Figure 10 The image shows the aerosol generator 160 in the engaged position and operated to generate aerosol 169 from the aerosol generator 160 received in the aerosol generator housing 130. Figure 1 A close-up schematic cross-sectional view of the exemplary aerosol generating device 100.

[0104] Figures 1 to 10An aerosol generating apparatus 100 is shown, having an elongated body 110 extending from a distal end 112 to a proximal end 114 and a power source 120 disposed within the elongated body 110. The proximal end 114 includes an aerosol generating article receiving portion 130 defining a first portion 132 of a spherical or elliptical shape or cavity. A sensor 140 is electrically connected to the power source 120 and disposed along the aerosol generating article receiving portion 130. A mouthpiece element 150 extends from a coupling end 152 to an air outlet end 154. The coupling end 152 is configured to be coupled to the proximal end 114 of the elongated body 110. An airflow passage 155 extends from the coupling end 152 to the air outlet end 154. The mouthpiece element 150 is in an engaged position (see [reference]). Figure 3 ) and disengagement position (see Figure 1 The aerosol generating article receiving portion 130 is slidably connected to the elongated body 110. The inlet 105 of the aerosol generating article receiving portion 130 is defined in a disengaged position, and the inlet 105 is closed in an engaged position. The elongated body 110 is along the longitudinal axis L. A Extending from the distal end 112 to the proximal end 114.

[0105] The aerosol generating device 100 is shown as having a generally elongated rectangular shape; however, the aerosol generating device 100 may have a cylindrical shape or other shapes. The total length of the aerosol generating device 100 shown is from about 90 mm to about 160 mm, or from about 100 mm to about 140 mm. The width of the aerosol generating device 100 shown is from about 12 mm to about 28 mm, or from about 14 mm to about 21 mm. The height of the aerosol generating device 100 shown is from about 9 mm to about 23 mm, or from about 11 mm to about 18 mm.

[0106] Lateral distance L is shown and indicates the engagement position of mouthpiece element 150 relative to elongated body 110 (see [reference]). Figure 3 ) and disengagement position (see Figure 1 The distance between ) . Entering the lateral distance L' in Figure 1 The diagram shows the lateral distance defined by the inlet orifice 105.

[0107] The lateral distance L shown is from about 11 mm to about 27 mm, or from about 10 mm to about 24 mm. The lateral distance L' shown is from about 9 mm to about 25 mm, or from about 8 mm to about 22 mm.

[0108] The mouthpiece element 150 may include a second portion 134 of an aerosol generation article receiving portion 130, which defines a second portion of a spherical or elliptical shape or cavity. A second sensor 142 may be electrically connected to a power source 120 and is disposed along the second portion 132 of the aerosol generation article receiving portion 130. When the mouthpiece element 150 is in an engaged position with the elongated body 110, the first portion 132 and the second portion 134 of the aerosol generation article receiving portion may cooperate to form a complete spherical or elliptical shape or cavity.

[0109] The complete spherical or elliptical shape or cavity of the aerosol generating article receiving portions 132 and 134 shown has a maximum lateral dimension D of about 4 mm to about 21 mm, or about 6.5 mm to about 16.5 mm. The size of the complete spherical or elliptical shape or cavity of the aerosol generating article receiving portions 132 and 134 is set to fit tightly with the aerosol generating article 160.

[0110] The aerosol generation article receiving portion 130 may be defined on a pivoting unit 180, which cooperates with a slidable mouthpiece element 150 and pivots about a pivot axis between an open position and a closed position as the mouthpiece element 150 moves from a disengaged position to an engaged position. The pivot axis may extend through the aerosol generation article receiving portion 130.

[0111] The mouthpiece element 150 connection end 152 may include an engagement extension 151, which contacts the pivot unit 180 and drives the pivot unit 180 from the open position to the closed position when the mouthpiece element 150 moves from the disengaged position to the engaged position.

[0112] The connecting extension 151 may be parallel to the longitudinal axis L of the elongated body 110 and the mouthpiece element 150. A Extension. Engaging extension 151 may include a pawl element 153 on the free end of engaging extension 151. Pawl element 153 secures pivot unit 180 in the closed position.

[0113] The sensor element 140 on the first portion 132 of the aerosol generation article receiving portion 130 may be flush with at least a portion of the outer surface of the first portion 132 of the aerosol generation article receiving portion 130. The second sensor 142 on the second portion 134 of the aerosol generation article receiving portion 130 may be flush with at least a portion of the outer surface of the second portion 134 of the aerosol generation article receiving portion 130.

[0114] Inductors 140 and 142 may be induction coils configured to generate heat in one or more inductors. The induction coil may be a helical coil. One or more inductors are configured to generate heat when inductively coupled to an induction heating element. One or more inductors may be in or on a spherical or elliptical aerosol generating article. One or more inductors may form part of the wall of the aerosol generating article receiving portion 130.

[0115] The controller 125 may be disposed within the elongated body 110 and electrically connected to the power supply 120 and sensors 140, 142. A switch 170 may be disposed on the main housing of the elongated body 110 and configured to control the power supplied to the controller or control unit 125. The switch 170 may be an on / off element. When the aerosol generating device 100 is not in the engaged position, the controller 125 may automatically deactivate sensors 140, 142.

[0116] The power source 120 can be an internal battery, such as a lithium iron phosphate battery. The power source may need to be recharged via charging port 121.

[0117] In the disengaged position, the pivot unit 180 can be pre-tensioned against the surface of the proximal end 114 of the elongated body 110 by a biasing element 136, wherein the pivot unit remains tilted toward it. The biasing element 136 can contact the planar surface of the pivot unit 180 and the corner of the proximal end 114 of the elongated body 110. The biasing element 136 biases the pivot unit 180 toward the open position. The biasing element 136 is preferably a spring.

[0118] In the engaged position, the elongated body 110 or mouthpiece element 150 cooperates to define an air inlet 107 for entry into the aerosol generation article receiving portion 130. During engagement, the gap between the pivoting unit 180 and the inclined edge defines the air inlet 107, which allows air to travel into the aerosol generation article receiving portion 130 and into the received aerosol generation article, and then this air travels into the airflow passage 155 of the mouthpiece element 150 and exits from the air outlet 156 of the mouthpiece element 150.

[0119] Figure 5 It is in the detached position and receives the aerosol-generating product 160. Figure 1 A perspective view of the exemplary aerosol generating apparatus 100. Figure 6 It is in the detached position and receives the aerosol-generating product 160. Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of the exemplary aerosol generating device 100. Figure 7 It is in a disengaged position. Figure 1A schematic cross-sectional view of an exemplary aerosol generating apparatus 100 and an aerosol generating article 160 received in an aerosol generating article receiving section 130 of the aerosol generating apparatus 160.

[0120] Figure 8 It shows the sliding from the disengaged position toward the engaged position. Figure 1 A close-up schematic cross-sectional view of the exemplary aerosol generating device 100. Directional arrow D. L Indicates the direction in which the mouthpiece element 150 moves toward the elongated body 110. Directional arrow D L It is shown as being aligned with the longitudinal axis L A Parallel. This reduced lateral distance is shown as L''. The mouthpiece element 150 moves toward the elongated body 110, and the engaging extension 151 is axially driven through the insertion path along the sidewall of the proximal end 114 of the elongated body 110 and abutting against the curved bottom edge of the pivot unit 180. The engaging extension 151 applies a compressive force to the pivot unit 180, which overcomes the compressive force of the biasing element 136, thereby compressing the biasing element 136 and acting as a lever by pushing the pivot unit 180 toward its engaged state (entering linear orientation).

[0121] Figure 9 It shows the sliding engagement position. Figure 1 A close-up schematic cross-sectional view of an exemplary aerosol generating apparatus 100, wherein an aerosol generating article 160 is received in an aerosol generating article receiving portion 130 of the aerosol generating apparatus 100. After reaching the inserted end, the pawl element 153 of the engaging extension 151 cooperates with the receiving groove 155 formed at the proximal end 114 of the elongated body 110 to create a snap-fit ​​engagement. After reaching the inserted end or engagement position, the distal end 182 of the pivoting unit 180 can rest within a mating portion 184 defined between the sidewall of the engaging extension 151 and the sidewall of the airflow passage 155 in the mouthpiece element 150.

[0122] Figure 10 The image shows the aerosol generator 160 in the engaged position and operated to generate aerosol 169 from the aerosol generator 160 received in the aerosol generator housing 130. Figure 1 A close-up schematic cross-sectional view of an exemplary aerosol generating apparatus 100. When engaged, the gap between the pivoting unit 180 and the inclined edge defines an air inlet 107 that allows air to travel into the aerosol generating article receiving portion 130 and into the received aerosol generating article 160, and then this air travels into the airflow passage 155 of the mouthpiece element 150 and exits from the air outlet 156 of the mouthpiece element 150.

[0123] When a user inhales through the air outlet 156 of the mouthpiece element 150, air is first drawn from the air inlet 107 into the aerosol generating article containment 130, and then into the aerosol generating article 160 received within the aerosol generating article containment 130. The airflow then entrains released particles from the heated tobacco material. This mixture generates aerosol 169, which converges into the airflow channel 155, where it travels upwards to undergo a Venturi effect that expands its volume. This volume expansion further homogenizes and cools the aerosol 169. The aerosol 169 is then accelerated by the constricted end of the airflow channel 155 leading to the air outlet 156, which discharges the aerosol 169 into the user's mouth. After the active ingredients in the aerosol generating article 160 are consumed, the user can continue to replace the used aerosol generating article 160 by simply detaching the mouthpiece element 150, removing the used aerosol generating article 160, and then inserting a new aerosol generating article 160.

[0124] Figure 11 This is a perspective top view of the exemplary pivot unit 180. Figure 12 yes Figure 11 A schematic cross-sectional view of the exemplary pivot unit 180 taken along line AA. The pivot unit 180 can be rotatably mounted to the proximal end 114 of the elongated body 110 via a mounting pin 185 protruding from the side of the pivot unit 180. The mounting pin 185 mates with the pivot axis P of the pivot unit 180. A coincide.

[0125] The pivoting unit 180 has a pivoting axis P extending through the aerosol generation article receiving portion 130. A Pivot axis P A It can be orthogonal to the longitudinal axis L of the slender body 110 A Extension. The pivoting unit 180 may have a V-shape and integrate a hook-shaped recessed section centered along its longitudinal axis (along line AA) (defining the first portion 132 of the aerosol-generating article containment). Pivoting axis P A It can be orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the pivot unit 180 (along line AA). The sensor 140 is disposed along the aerosol generation article receiving portion 132. The air inlet surface 107 is defined on the pivot unit 180.

[0126] Figures 13A-13DThis is a perspective view of the aerosol generating article 160 and associated sensors 140 of various configurations. A single sensor 140 is shown, but it should be understood that two or more sensors may be arranged around the aerosol generating article 160. Different coil winding configurations can provide characteristic electromagnetic curves that can be selected according to individual requirements for electric and magnetic field potentials. In principle, the electromagnetic interaction between the spherical coil configuration 140 and the core sensor within the aerosol generating article 160 is given by Maxwell's equations and can be constructed on different complex mathematical models.

[0127] Figure 13A A sensor 140 with a spherical cap structure is shown. Figure 13B A sensor 140 with another spherical segment construction is shown. Figure 13C A sensor 140 with a spherical segmental structure is shown. Figure 13D A sensor 140 with another spherical segment construction is shown.

[0128] Figure 14 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of an exemplary aerosol generating article 160. The aerosol generating article 160 may include an aerosol forming matrix 162 and a centrally located receptor core 164 within the aerosol forming matrix 160.

[0129] Figure 15 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of another exemplary aerosol generating article 160. The aerosol generating article 160 may include an aerosol forming matrix 162 and receptor particles 164 distributed throughout the aerosol forming matrix 162.

[0130] Figures 16A-16B This is a perspective view of the aerosol generating article 160 and associated sensors 140, 142 of different configurations, as well as the first and second portions 132, 134 of spherical or elliptical shapes or cavities. The spherically constructed sensing device is formed by a first coil or heating element 140 and a second coil or heating element 142, wherein multiple turns of wire are wound around the spherical shape. The first coil or sensor 140 is arranged within the wall of the bottom hemisphere 132 of the aerosol generating article receiving portion 130, and the second coil sensor 140 is arranged within the wall of the top hemisphere 134 of the aerosol generating article receiving portion 130. The alignment of the top hemisphere 134 and the bottom hemisphere 132 immediately follows the engagement of the mouthpiece element 150 with the elongated body 110, resulting in the alignment of the first coil or sensor 140 with the second coil or sensor 142, producing a coaxial alignment.

[0131] The sensing device is configured to generate an alternating magnetic field that induces eddy currents within the core sensor 164 of the aerosol generating article 160. These eddy currents then generate heat, which causes the volatile compounds contained in the aerosol generating article 160 to evaporate. Thermal insulation may be disposed on the surface of each of the bottom hemisphere 132 and the top hemisphere 134. For example, a surface coating suitable for thermal insulation may be applied to the recessed sections of the top hemisphere 134 and the bottom hemisphere 132 to prevent heat loss and protect the rest of the aerosol generating apparatus components.

[0132] Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a method 200 using the aerosol generation system described herein.

[0133] The method of using the aerosol generation system 200 includes (202) inserting an aerosol generation article having a spherical or elliptical shape into an aerosol generation article receiving portion of an aerosol generation apparatus, and (204) attaching a mouthpiece element to the proximal end of an elongated body. Then (206) activating a sensor to generate aerosol from the aerosol generation article, and (208) drawing air onto the mouthpiece element to draw the generated aerosol from the aerosol generation article to the air outlet end of the mouthpiece element.

[0134] The method may further include (210) deactivating the sensor, (212) removing the mouthpiece element from the proximal end of the elongated body, and (214) removing the aerosol-generating article from the aerosol-generating article receiving portion. In some cases, the sensor is automatically deactivated by sliding the mouthpiece element from the engagement position.

[0135] 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 ± 2% of A. In this context, the number A can be considered to include a value within the general standard error for the measurement of the property modified by the number A. In some cases used in the appended claims, the number A may deviate from the percentages listed above, provided that the amount of deviation from A does not materially affect the essential and novel features of the claimed 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. An aerosol generating apparatus, comprising: A slender body extending from the distal end to the proximal end; A power source disposed in the elongated body, the proximal end including an aerosol-generating article containment that defines a first portion of a spherical or elliptical shape; And a sensor electrically connected to the power source and disposed along the aerosol-generating article receiving portion; as well as A mouthpiece element extending from a connecting end to an air outlet end, the connecting end being configured to connect to the proximal end of the elongated body, and an airflow passage extending from the connecting end to the air outlet end.

2. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the mouthpiece element includes a second portion of the aerosol generating article receiving portion, the second portion of the aerosol generating article receiving portion defining a spherical or elliptical second portion.

3. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 2 further includes a second sensor electrically connected to the power source and disposed along a second portion of the aerosol generating article receiving portion.

4. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 2 or 3, wherein when the mouthpiece element is connected to the elongated body, the first portion of the aerosol generating article receiving portion and the second portion of the aerosol generating article receiving portion cooperate to form a spherical or elliptical shape.

5. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the elongated body or the mouthpiece element defines an air inlet passage into the aerosol generating article receiving portion.

6. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the sensor is flush with at least a portion of the outer surface of the first portion of the aerosol generating article receiving portion.

7. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the second sensor is flush with at least a portion of the outer surface of the second portion of the aerosol generating article receiving portion.

8. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the sensor is a helical coil.

9. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the second sensor is a helical coil.

10. An aerosol generation system, comprising: Aerosol generating apparatus according to any of the preceding claims; as well as An aerosol generating article having a spherical or elliptical shape and being sized to be received tightly within the aerosol generating article receiving portion.

11. The aerosol generation system of claim 10, wherein the aerosol generation article comprises an aerosol generation matrix and receptor particles distributed throughout the aerosol generation matrix.

12. The aerosol generation system of claim 10, wherein the aerosol generation article comprises an aerosol generation matrix and a centrally located receptor core within the aerosol generation matrix.

13. The aerosol generation system of claim 10, wherein the aerosol generation article comprises an aerosol generation matrix, and wherein the device further comprises a sensor forming at least a portion of the wall of the aerosol generation article receiving portion.

14. A method using the aerosol generation system according to claim 10, the method comprising: An aerosol generating article having a spherical or elliptical shape is inserted into the aerosol generating article receiving part of the aerosol generating device; The mouthpiece element is attached to the proximal end of the elongated body; The sensor is activated to generate an aerosol from the aerosol-generating article; as well as The aerosol is drawn from the aerosol-generating article onto the mouthpiece element to the air outlet end of the mouthpiece element.

15. The method of claim 14, further comprising: Deactivate the sensor; Remove the mouthpiece element from the proximal end of the elongated body; as well as Remove the aerosol-generating article from the aerosol-generating article receiving portion.

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