Reservoir configurations for aerosol delivery devices

Abstract

The present disclosure provides an aerosol delivery device that may include a housing defining an outer wall. The device may also include a power supply and control component, a mouthpiece portion, a tank portion including a reservoir configured to contain the liquid composition, and an atomization assembly configured to vaporize the liquid composition to generate an aerosol. The atomization assembly may include a vibration assembly including a mesh plate. In some embodiments, a reservoir of an aerosol delivery device may be configured to rotate relative to a position of the aerosol delivery device. In some embodiments, the aerosol delivery device may also include a perforated door. In some embodiments, the aerosol delivery device may also include a liquid delivery element. In some embodiments, the aerosol delivery device may also include a micropump assembly. In some embodiments, the reservoir of the aerosol delivery device may be U-shaped.

Description

[0001] This invention patent application is a divisional application of the invention patent application with international application number PCT / IB2020 / 054797, international application date of May 20, 2020, and application number 202080052898.0 that entered the Chinese national phase, entitled "Reservoir Structure for Aerosol Delivery Device".

[0002] Cross-reference to related applications

[0003] This application claims priority and benefit to U.S. Patent Application No. 62 / 851,318, filed May 22, 2019, entitled “Reservoir Configuration for Aerosol Delivery Device,” the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0004] This disclosure relates to an aerosol delivery device, and more particularly to an aerosol delivery device comprising a storage section and an atomizing assembly, which can utilize electricity to evaporate an aerosol precursor composition to generate an aerosol. In various embodiments, an aerosol precursor composition comprising materials and / or components that may be made from or derived from tobacco, or otherwise comprising materials and / or components from tobacco or other plants, comprising natural or synthetic flavoring components, and / or comprising one or more pharmaceutical components, is evaporated by the atomizing assembly to produce an inhalable substance for human consumption. Background Technology

[0005] In recent years, numerous smoking devices have been proposed as improvements or alternatives to smoking products that require the combustion of tobacco. Many of these devices are reportedly designed to provide the sensations associated with smoking cigarettes, cigars, or pipes, but without delivering the large amounts of incomplete combustion and pyrolysis products produced by the combustion of tobacco. To this end, numerous smoking products, flavor generators, and drug inhalers have been proposed that employ electrical energy to evaporate or heat volatile materials or attempt to provide the sensations of smoking cigarettes, cigars, or pipes without significantly burning the tobacco. See, for example, the various alternative smoking products, aerosol delivery devices, and heat sources described in the background art of U.S. Patent No. 7,726,320 to Robinson et al., U.S. Patent Publication No. 2013 / 0255702 to Griffith Jr. et al., and U.S. Patent Publication No. 2014 / 0096781 to Sears et al., the full text of which is incorporated herein by reference. For example, see also the reference trademarks and commercial sources of various types of smoking articles, aerosol delivery devices and electric sources in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0216232 by Bless et al., the full text of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0006] However, it is desirable to provide aerosol delivery devices with enhanced functionality. In this regard, it is desirable to provide aerosol delivery devices with advantageous features. Summary of the Invention

[0007] In various embodiments, this disclosure provides an aerosol delivery device. This disclosure includes, but is not limited to, the following exemplary embodiments.

[0008] Exemplary Embodiment 1: An aerosol delivery device, the device comprising: a housing defining an outer wall, and further comprising a power supply and control components, a nozzle portion, a reservoir portion including a reservoir configured to contain a liquid composition, and an atomizing assembly configured to evaporate the liquid composition to generate an aerosol, wherein the atomizing assembly includes a vibrating assembly including a mesh plate, and the reservoir is configured to rotate relative to the position of the aerosol delivery device.

[0009] Exemplary Implementation 2: An aerosol delivery device as described in any of the foregoing exemplary implementations or any combination of the foregoing exemplary implementations, wherein the mesh plate is substantially flat.

[0010] Exemplary Implementation 3: An aerosol delivery device as described in any of the foregoing exemplary implementations or any combination of the foregoing exemplary implementations, wherein at least a portion of the mesh plate protrudes relative to the reservoir.

[0011] Exemplary Implementation 4: An aerosol delivery device as described in any of the foregoing exemplary implementations or any combination of the foregoing exemplary implementations, wherein the vibration assembly further includes a piezoelectric element fixed to and substantially surrounding the mesh plate.

[0012] Exemplary Implementation 5: An aerosol delivery device as described in any of the foregoing exemplary implementations or any combination of the foregoing exemplary implementations, wherein the vibration component is configured to be positioned close to the enclosed portion of the reservoir.

[0013] Exemplary Implementation 6: An aerosol delivery device as described in any of the foregoing exemplary implementations or any combination of the foregoing exemplary implementations, wherein the vibration component is positioned close to the opening portion of the reservoir.

[0014] Exemplary Implementation 7: An aerosol delivery device as described in any of the foregoing exemplary implementations or any combination of the foregoing exemplary implementations, wherein the reservoir is substantially spherical.

[0015] Exemplary Implementation 8: An aerosol delivery device as described in any of the foregoing exemplary implementations or any combination of the foregoing exemplary implementations, wherein the reservoir is substantially cylindrical.

[0016] Exemplary Implementation 9: An aerosol delivery device as described in any of the foregoing exemplary implementations or any combination of the foregoing exemplary implementations, wherein the reservoir is configured to rotate about a single axis.

[0017] Exemplary Implementation 10: An aerosol delivery device as described in any of the foregoing exemplary implementations or any combination of the foregoing exemplary implementations, further comprising an intermediate frame configured to connect a reservoir to a housing, wherein the intermediate frame is configured to rotate relative to the housing about a first axis, wherein the reservoir is configured to rotate relative to the intermediate frame about a second axis, and wherein the first axis and the second axis are substantially perpendicular.

[0018] Exemplary Embodiment 11: An aerosol delivery device, the device comprising: a housing defining an outer wall, and further comprising a power supply and control components, a nozzle portion, a tank portion including a reservoir configured to contain a liquid composition, and an atomizing assembly configured to evaporate the liquid composition to generate an aerosol, wherein the atomizing assembly includes a vibrating assembly including a mesh plate and a perforated door having a plurality of openings defined therein, the perforated door being positioned close to the mesh plate and between the liquid composition and the mesh plate.

[0019] Exemplary Implementation 12: An aerosol delivery device as described in any of the foregoing exemplary implementations or any combination of the foregoing exemplary implementations, wherein the perforated door is substantially parallel to the mesh plate.

[0020] Exemplary Implementation 13: The aerosol delivery device as described in any of the foregoing exemplary implementations or any combination of the foregoing exemplary implementations further includes a chamber defined between the mesh plate and the perforated door.

[0021] Exemplary Implementation 14: An aerosol delivery device as described in any of the foregoing exemplary implementations or any combination of the foregoing exemplary implementations, wherein the plurality of openings of the perforated door have a truncated conical shape.

[0022] Exemplary Implementation 15: An aerosol delivery device as described in any of the foregoing exemplary implementations or any combination of the foregoing exemplary implementations, wherein the small ends of the plurality of openings are positioned closest to the mesh plate.

[0023] Exemplary Implementation 16: An aerosol delivery device as described in any of the foregoing exemplary implementations or any combination of the foregoing exemplary implementations, wherein at least a portion of the surface of the perforated door is coated with a coating.

[0024] Exemplary Implementation 17: An aerosol delivery device as described in any of the foregoing exemplary implementations or any combination of the foregoing exemplary implementations, wherein the coating comprises a hydrophobic / oleophobic coating.

[0025] Exemplary Implementation 18: An aerosol delivery device as described in any of the foregoing exemplary implementations or any combination of the foregoing exemplary implementations, wherein the vibration assembly further includes a piezoelectric element fixed to and substantially surrounding the mesh plate.

[0026] Exemplary Implementation 19: An aerosol delivery device as described in any of the foregoing exemplary implementations or any combination of the foregoing exemplary implementations, wherein the mesh plate is substantially flat.

[0027] Exemplary Implementation 20: An aerosol delivery device as described in any of the foregoing exemplary implementations or any combination of the foregoing exemplary implementations, wherein at least a portion of the mesh plate protrudes relative to the reservoir.

[0028] Exemplary Embodiment 21: An aerosol delivery device, the device comprising: a housing defining an outer wall, and further comprising a power supply and control components, a nozzle portion, a tank portion including a reservoir configured to contain a liquid composition, and an atomizing assembly configured to evaporate the liquid composition to generate an aerosol, wherein the atomizing assembly includes a vibrating assembly including a mesh plate, and further comprises a liquid delivery element, one end of which is positioned close to the mesh plate.

[0029] Exemplary Implementation 22: An aerosol delivery device as described in any of the foregoing exemplary implementations or any combination of the foregoing exemplary implementations, wherein the liquid delivery element comprises a single layer of a single material.

[0030] Exemplary Implementation 23: An aerosol delivery device as described in any of the foregoing exemplary implementations or any combination of the foregoing exemplary implementations, wherein the liquid delivery element comprises multiple layers of a single material.

[0031] Exemplary Implementation 24: An aerosol delivery device as described in any of the foregoing exemplary implementations or any combination of the foregoing exemplary implementations, wherein the liquid delivery element comprises multiple layers.

[0032] Exemplary Implementation 25: An aerosol delivery device as described in any of the foregoing exemplary implementations or any combination of the foregoing exemplary implementations, wherein the liquid delivery element comprises at least one of polymer materials, polymer fiber materials, cotton materials, silk materials, silicon fiber materials, particulate materials, synthetic fiber materials, natural fiber materials, and ceramic materials.

[0033] Exemplary Implementation 26: An aerosol delivery device as described in any of the foregoing exemplary implementations or any combination of the foregoing exemplary implementations, wherein the vibration assembly further includes a piezoelectric element fixed to and substantially surrounding the mesh plate.

[0034] Exemplary Implementation 27: An aerosol delivery device as described in any of the foregoing exemplary implementations or any combination of the foregoing exemplary implementations, wherein the mesh plate is substantially flat.

[0035] Exemplary Implementation 28: An aerosol delivery device as described in any of the foregoing exemplary implementations or any combination of the foregoing exemplary implementations, wherein at least a portion of the mesh plate protrudes relative to the reservoir.

[0036] Exemplary Embodiment 29: An aerosol delivery device as described in any of the foregoing exemplary embodiments or any combination of the foregoing exemplary embodiments, wherein the aerosol delivery device includes a housing defining an outer wall and also including power and control components, a nozzle portion, a tank portion including a reservoir configured to contain a liquid composition, and an atomizing assembly configured to evaporate the liquid composition to generate an aerosol, wherein the atomizing assembly includes a vibrating assembly and a pump assembly, the vibrating assembly including a mesh plate, and the pump assembly configured to transfer a portion of the liquid composition from the reservoir to the mesh plate.

[0037] Exemplary Implementation 30: An aerosol delivery device as described in any of the foregoing exemplary implementations or any combination of the foregoing exemplary implementations, wherein the pump assembly is configured to deliver a liquid composition to a mesh plate as needed.

[0038] Exemplary Implementation 31: An aerosol delivery device as described in any of the foregoing exemplary implementations or any combination of the foregoing exemplary implementations, wherein a pump assembly uses one or more nozzles to transfer a liquid composition to a mesh plate.

[0039] Exemplary Implementation 32: An aerosol delivery device as described in any of the foregoing exemplary implementations or any combination of the foregoing exemplary implementations, wherein the pump assembly includes at least one of a dispensing mechanism, a diaphragm device, and a peristaltic device.

[0040] Exemplary Implementation 33: An aerosol delivery device as described in any of the foregoing exemplary implementations or any combination of the foregoing exemplary implementations, wherein the dispensing mechanism includes a shape memory mechanism.

[0041] Exemplary Implementation 34: An aerosol delivery device as described in any of the foregoing exemplary implementations or any combination of the foregoing exemplary implementations, wherein the vibration assembly further includes a piezoelectric element fixed to and substantially surrounding the mesh plate.

[0042] Exemplary Implementation 35: An aerosol delivery device as described in any of the foregoing exemplary implementations or any combination of the foregoing exemplary implementations, wherein the mesh plate is substantially flat.

[0043] Exemplary Implementation 36: An aerosol delivery device as described in any of the foregoing exemplary implementations or any combination of the foregoing exemplary implementations, wherein at least a portion of the mesh plate protrudes relative to the reservoir.

[0044] Exemplary Embodiment 37: An aerosol delivery device comprising: a housing defining an outer wall, and further comprising a power supply and control components, a nozzle portion, a reservoir portion including a reservoir configured to contain a liquid composition, and an atomizing assembly configured to evaporate the liquid composition to generate an aerosol, wherein the atomizing assembly includes a vibration assembly and a blower assembly, the vibration assembly including a mesh plate, and the blower assembly configured to push a portion of the liquid composition from the reservoir to the mesh plate.

[0045] Exemplary Implementation 38: An aerosol delivery device as described in any of the foregoing exemplary implementations or any combination of the foregoing exemplary implementations, wherein the blower assembly includes a compressor.

[0046] Exemplary Implementation 39: An aerosol delivery device as described in any of the foregoing exemplary implementations or any combination of the foregoing exemplary implementations, wherein the blower assembly includes one or more nozzles.

[0047] Exemplary Implementation 40: An aerosol delivery device as described in any of the foregoing exemplary implementations or any combination of the foregoing exemplary implementations, wherein a blower assembly uses pressurized gas to push a liquid composition onto a mesh plate.

[0048] Exemplary Implementation 41: An aerosol delivery device as described in any of the foregoing exemplary implementations or any combination of the foregoing exemplary implementations, wherein the pressurized gas includes at least one of air, carbon dioxide (CO2), and nitrogen (N2).

[0049] Exemplary Implementation 42: An aerosol delivery device as described in any of the foregoing exemplary implementations or any combination of the foregoing exemplary implementations, wherein the vibration assembly further includes a piezoelectric element fixed to and substantially surrounding the mesh plate.

[0050] Exemplary Implementation 43: An aerosol delivery device as described in any of the foregoing exemplary implementations or any combination of the foregoing exemplary implementations, wherein the mesh plate is substantially flat.

[0051] Exemplary Implementation 44: An aerosol delivery device as described in any of the foregoing exemplary implementations or any combination of the foregoing exemplary implementations, wherein at least a portion of the mesh plate protrudes relative to the reservoir.

[0052] Exemplary Embodiment 45: An aerosol delivery device comprising: a housing defining an outer wall, and further comprising a power supply and control components, a nozzle portion, a reservoir portion including a reservoir configured to contain a liquid composition, and an atomizing assembly configured to evaporate the liquid composition to generate an aerosol, wherein the atomizing assembly includes a vibrating assembly including a mesh plate, and the reservoir includes a U-tube including a first reservoir section, a second reservoir section, and a third reservoir section, wherein the third reservoir section is positioned adjacent to the atomizing assembly, and wherein the second reservoir section connects the first reservoir section to the third reservoir section.

[0053] Exemplary Implementation 46: An aerosol delivery device as described in any of the foregoing exemplary implementations or any combination of the foregoing exemplary implementations, wherein the first reservoir section has a larger diameter than the diameters of the second reservoir section and the third reservoir section.

[0054] Exemplary Implementation 47: The aerosol delivery device as described in any of the foregoing exemplary implementations or any combination of the foregoing exemplary implementations further includes a plumb bob configured to apply a downward force on the liquid composition in the first reservoir section.

[0055] Exemplary Implementation 48: An aerosol delivery device as described in any of the foregoing exemplary implementations or any combination of the foregoing exemplary implementations, wherein the plumb bob includes at least one of a counterweight disc and a counterweight ball.

[0056] Exemplary Implementation 49: An aerosol delivery device as described in any of the foregoing exemplary implementations or any combination of the foregoing exemplary implementations, wherein the plumb bob further includes a movable component configured to apply a downward force on the plumb bob.

[0057] Exemplary Implementation 50: An aerosol delivery device as described in any of the foregoing exemplary implementations or any combination of the foregoing exemplary implementations, wherein the reservoir is angled relative to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol delivery device.

[0058] Exemplary Implementation 51: An aerosol delivery device as described in any of the foregoing exemplary implementations or any combination of the foregoing exemplary implementations, wherein the nozzle portion is positioned on one side of the aerosol delivery device body to facilitate use of the device along a specific plurality of orientations.

[0059] Exemplary Implementation 52: An aerosol delivery device as described in any of the foregoing exemplary implementations or any combination of the foregoing exemplary implementations, wherein the vibration assembly further includes a piezoelectric element fixed to and substantially surrounding the mesh plate.

[0060] Exemplary Implementation 53: An aerosol delivery device as described in any of the foregoing exemplary implementations or any combination of the foregoing exemplary implementations, wherein the mesh plate is substantially flat.

[0061] Exemplary Implementation 54: An aerosol delivery device as described in any of the foregoing exemplary implementations or any combination of the foregoing exemplary implementations, wherein at least a portion of the mesh plate protrudes relative to the reservoir.

[0062] Exemplary Embodiment 55: An aerosol delivery device comprising: a housing defining an outer wall, and further comprising a power supply and control components, a nozzle portion, a reservoir portion including a reservoir configured to contain a liquid composition, and an atomizing assembly configured to evaporate the liquid composition to generate an aerosol, wherein the atomizing assembly includes a vibrating assembly including a mesh plate, wherein the reservoir includes a substantially cylindrical tube and further comprises a plumb bob including a movable member configured to apply a downward force on the liquid composition in the first reservoir portion.

[0063] Exemplary Implementation 56: An aerosol delivery device as described in any of the foregoing exemplary implementations or any combination of the foregoing exemplary implementations, wherein the moving part includes a spring.

[0064] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of this disclosure will become clear from the following detailed description and the accompanying drawings, which are briefly described below. This disclosure includes any combination of two, three, four, or more features or elements set forth herein, whether such features or elements are described herein as explicitly combined or otherwise recited in the specific exemplary embodiments described herein. Unless expressly specified in the context of this disclosure, this disclosure is intended to be read holistically such that any separable features or elements of this disclosure should be considered contemplated, i.e., considered composable, in any aspect and exemplary embodiment.

[0065] Therefore, it should be understood that the provision of this invention is merely to summarize some exemplary embodiments to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of this disclosure. Consequently, it should be understood that the above exemplary embodiments are merely examples and should not be construed as limiting the scope or spirit of this disclosure in any way. Other exemplary embodiments, aspects, and advantages will become apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which illustrate the principles of some of the described exemplary embodiments by way of example. Attached Figure Description

[0066] To aid in understanding various aspects of this disclosure, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, and in these drawings, the same reference numerals refer to the same parts. The drawings are provided by way of example to aid in understanding various aspects of this disclosure and should not be construed as limiting this disclosure.

[0067] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of an aerosol delivery apparatus including a barrel and a control unit according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the barrel and the control unit are shown in a connected configuration; Figure 2 A front cross-sectional schematic diagram of an aerosol delivery device including a barrel and a control unit according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, wherein the barrel and the control unit are shown in a separate configuration; Figure 3 A perspective view of a portion of an atomizing assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is shown; Figure 4A A side view schematic diagram of a portion of an atomizing assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is shown; Figure 4B A side view schematic diagram of a portion of an atomizing assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is shown; Figure 4C A side view schematic diagram of a portion of an atomizing assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is shown; Figure 4D A side view schematic diagram of a portion of an atomizing assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is shown; Figure 4E A side view schematic diagram of a portion of an atomizing assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is shown; Figure 4F A side view schematic diagram of a portion of an atomizing assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is shown; Figure 5 A side view schematic diagram is shown of a portion of a reservoir configured to hold a liquid composition and an atomizing assembly configured to generate an aerosol from the liquid composition, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 6 A side view schematic diagram is shown of a portion of a reservoir configured to hold a liquid composition and an atomizing assembly configured to generate an aerosol from the liquid composition, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 7 A perspective schematic diagram is shown of a portion of a reservoir configured to hold a liquid composition and an atomizing assembly configured to generate an aerosol from the liquid composition, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 8A A top view schematic diagram is shown of a portion of a reservoir assembly configured to hold a liquid composition and a portion of an atomizing assembly configured to generate an aerosol from the liquid composition, according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 8B A top view schematic diagram is shown of a portion of a reservoir assembly configured to hold a liquid composition and a portion of an atomizing assembly configured to generate an aerosol from the liquid composition, according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 8C A top view schematic diagram of a portion of an aerosol delivery device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, the aerosol delivery device including a reservoir assembly configured to hold a liquid composition and an atomizing assembly configured to generate an aerosol from the liquid composition. Figure 9 A perspective view of various parts of an aerosol delivery device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, the aerosol delivery device including a reservoir configured to hold a liquid composition and an atomizing component configured to generate an aerosol from the liquid composition. Figure 10 A top cross-sectional schematic diagram is shown of a portion of a reservoir configured to hold a liquid composition and an atomizing assembly configured to generate an aerosol from the liquid composition, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 11 A side view schematic diagram is shown of a portion of a reservoir configured to hold a liquid composition and an atomizing assembly configured to generate an aerosol from the liquid composition, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 12 A side view schematic diagram is shown of a portion of a reservoir configured to hold a liquid composition and an atomizing assembly configured to generate an aerosol from the liquid composition, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 13 A side view schematic diagram is shown of a portion of a reservoir configured to hold a liquid composition and an atomizing assembly configured to generate an aerosol from the liquid composition, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 14A side view schematic diagram is shown of a portion of a reservoir configured to hold a liquid composition and an atomizing assembly configured to generate an aerosol from the liquid composition, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 15A A side view schematic diagram is shown of a portion of a reservoir configured to hold a liquid composition and an atomizing assembly configured to generate an aerosol from the liquid composition, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 15B A side view schematic diagram is shown of a portion of a reservoir configured to hold a liquid composition and an atomizing assembly configured to generate an aerosol from the liquid composition, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 16 A side view schematic diagram of various parts of an aerosol delivery device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The aerosol delivery device includes a reservoir configured to hold a liquid composition and an atomizing component configured to generate an aerosol from the liquid composition; and Figure 17 A side view schematic diagram is shown of a portion of a reservoir configured to hold a liquid composition and an atomizing assembly configured to generate an aerosol from the liquid composition, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0068] The present disclosure will now be described more fully below with reference to exemplary embodiments thereof. These embodiments are described in such a way that the disclosure will be exhaustive and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the disclosure to those skilled in the art. In fact, the disclosure may be implemented in many forms and should not be construed as being limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these aspects are set forth so that the disclosure will satisfy applicable legal requirements. The singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” as used in this specification and the appended claims include plural indicators unless clearly stated otherwise herein.

[0069] As described below, embodiments of this disclosure relate to aerosol delivery devices or evaporation devices, the terms being used interchangeably herein. Aerosol delivery devices according to this disclosure use electrical energy to evaporate materials (preferably without burning the materials to any significant extent and / or without significant chemical changes) to form an inhalable substance; and components of such devices have articles of the form that are most preferably compact enough to be considered handheld devices. That is, the use of some components of aerosol delivery devices does not result in the generation of smoke, i.e., smoke from byproducts of the combustion or pyrolysis of tobacco, but rather results in the generation of vapor, which is obtained by the evaporation of the aerosol precursor composition. In some examples, components of the aerosol delivery device may be characterized as electronic cigarettes, and those electronic cigarettes most preferably contain tobacco and / or tobacco-derived components, and thus deliver tobacco-derived components in aerosol form. Certain preferred aerosol delivery devices can provide many of the sensations of smoking a cigarette, cigar, or pipe (e.g., inhalation and exhalation habits, flavor or aroma, sensory effects, bodily sensations, usage habits, visual cues provided by the visible aerosol), without burning any of its components to a significant degree, whereas these cigarettes, cigars, or pipes are used by lighting and burning tobacco (and thus inhaling tobacco smoke). For example, a user of the aerosol generating device of this disclosure can hold and use the device like a smoker using a conventional type of smoking product, inhale at one end of the device to inhale the aerosol generated by the device, and take inhales or puffs at selected time intervals.

[0070] The aerosol delivery device disclosed herein can also be characterized as a vapor-generating article or a pharmaceutical delivery article. Therefore, such articles or devices can be modified to deliver one or more substances (e.g., flavorings and / or active pharmaceutical ingredients) in an inhalable form or state. For example, the inhalable substance can be in a substantially vapor form (i.e., a substance in the gas phase at temperatures below a critical point). Alternatively, the inhalable substance can be in the form of an aerosol (i.e., a suspension of fine solid particles or droplets in a gas). For simplicity purposes, the term "aerosol" as used herein is intended to include various forms or types of vapors, gases, or aerosols suitable for human inhalation, whether visible or not, and whether or not they can be considered in a smoke-like form.

[0071] Most preferably, the aerosol delivery system of this disclosure includes certain combinations of the following components: a power source (i.e., a power supply), at least one control component (e.g., a device such as a microcontroller or microprocessor for actuating, controlling, regulating, and stopping the power by controlling the current flowing from the power source to other components of the article), an atomizing component, a liquid composition (e.g., a liquid aerosol precursor composition typically capable of generating an aerosol, such as components commonly referred to as "cigarette juice," "e-liquid," and "e-juice"), and a mouthpiece or mouthpiece region that allows inhalation at the aerosol delivery device to draw in the aerosol (e.g., a defined airflow passage through the article such that the generated aerosol can be drawn out from the airflow passage upon inhalation).

[0072] The alignment of components within an aerosol delivery device can be variable. In specific embodiments, the aerosol precursor composition may be located between two opposite ends of the device (e.g., within a reservoir of a cartridge, which in some cases is replaceable and disposable or refillable). However, other configurations are not excluded. Typically, components are configured relative to each other such that energy from the atomizing assembly causes the aerosol precursor composition (and one or more flavorings, medications, etc., which may also be provided for delivery to the user) to evaporate and form an aerosol for delivery to the user. As the atomizing assembly evaporates the aerosol precursor composition, the aerosol is formed, released, or generated in a physical form suitable for inhalation by the consumer. It should be noted that the foregoing terms are intended to be interchangeable, such that the terms release, in the process of release, will release, or post-release (released) include formation or generation, in the process of formation or generation, will form or will generate, and post-formation (formed) or post-generation (generated). Specifically, the inhalable substance is released in the form of vapor or aerosol, or a mixture thereof.

[0073] The more specific form, construction, and arrangement of the components within the aerosol delivery device of this disclosure will become apparent from the further disclosure provided below. Furthermore, consideration can be given to commercially available electronic aerosol delivery devices to understand the selection and arrangement of components in different aerosol delivery devices, such as those representative products cited in the background section of this disclosure.

[0074] Figure 1 An aerosol delivery apparatus including a barrel and a control unit according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, wherein the barrel and the control unit are shown in a coupled configuration. Specifically, Figure 1A perspective view of an aerosol delivery device 100 including a cartridge 104 and a control unit 102 is shown. As shown, the cartridge 104 can be permanently or detachably aligned with the control unit 102 in a functional relationship. In some embodiments, for example, the cartridge and control unit may comprise a single component, while in other embodiments (such as those depicted), the connection between them may be releasable, such that, for example, the control unit can be reused with one or more additional cartridges that may be disposable and / or refillable. In various embodiments, a variety of different engagement methods can be used to connect the cartridge and control unit together. For example, in some embodiments, the cartridge and control unit may be connected via one or more of snap-fit, press-fit, threaded, and magnetic engagement. It should be noted that the components depicted in this and other figures represent components that may be present in the control unit and / or cartridge and are not intended to limit the scope of control unit and / or cartridge components covered by this disclosure.

[0075] Figure 2 A front cross-sectional schematic view of the aerosol delivery device 100 is shown, wherein, Figure 1 The cylinder 104 and control unit 102 are shown in a separate configuration. In various embodiments, the aerosol delivery device 100 can have a variety of different shapes. For example, in some embodiments (such as the depicted embodiment), the aerosol delivery device 100 can be substantially rod-shaped, substantially tubular, or substantially cylindrical. However, in other embodiments, other shapes and sizes are possible (e.g., rectangular, elliptical, hexagonal, prism-shaped, regular or irregular polygonal, disc-shaped, cubic, polyhedral, etc.). In further embodiments, the cylinder and control unit can have different shapes.

[0076] In the depicted embodiment, the control unit 102 and the barrel 104 include components adapted to facilitate mechanical engagement therebetween. While various other configurations are possible, the control unit 102 in the depicted embodiment includes a coupling 124 defining a cavity 125 therein. Similarly, the barrel 104 includes a base 140 adapted to engage the coupling 124 of the control unit 102. Useful couplings and bases according to this disclosure are described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0261495 by Novak et al., the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0077] However, it should be noted that in other embodiments, various other structures, shapes, and / or components can be used to connect the control unit and the barrel. For example, in some embodiments, the control unit and the barrel can be connected together via an interference fit or press fit, such as embodiments where the control body includes a chamber configured to receive at least a portion of the barrel, or embodiments where the barrel includes a chamber configured to receive at least a portion of the control unit. In other embodiments, the barrel and the control unit can be connected together via a threaded connection. In yet another embodiment, the barrel and the control unit can be connected together via a bayonet connection. In yet another embodiment, the barrel and the control unit can be connected via a magnetic connection. In various embodiments, once connected, an electrical connection can be established between the barrel and the control unit, thereby electrically connecting the barrel (and its components) to the battery and / or via the control components of the control unit. This electrical connection can exist via one or more components of the connection feature. In this way, corresponding electrical contacts in the barrel and the control unit can be substantially aligned after connection to provide electrical connection.

[0078] In specific implementations, one or both of the control unit 102 and the barrel 104 may be disposable or reusable. For example, in some implementations, the power source may include a replaceable or rechargeable battery and thus be combined with any type of charging technology, including: connection to a wall charger, connection to a vehicle charger (e.g., a cigarette lighter socket), connection to a computer (each of the above three may include a Universal Serial Bus (USB) cable or connector (e.g., USB 2.0, 3.0, 3.1, USB Type-C)), connection to a USB connector (e.g., USB 2.0, 3.0, 3.1, USB Type-C, which may be implemented in a wall socket, electronic device, vehicle, etc.), connection to a photovoltaic cell (sometimes called a solar cell) or a solar panel of a solar cell, or a wireless charger such as a charger using inductive wireless charging (e.g., including wireless charging according to the Wireless Power Consortium (WPC) Qi wireless charging standard) or a radio frequency (RF) based charger, and an array of one or more external batteries such as a power bank to charge the device via a USB connector or a wireless charger. An example of an inductive wireless charging system is described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2017 / 0112196 by Sur et al., the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. In another embodiment, the power source may also include a capacitor. The capacitor discharges faster than a battery and can be charged between uses, thereby allowing the battery to discharge into the capacitor at a lower rate. For example, a supercapacitor, such as an electric double-layer capacitor (EDLC), may be used separately from or in combination with a battery. When used alone, the supercapacitor can be charged before each use of the article. Therefore, the device may also include a charger component that can be attached to the smoking article between uses to replenish the supercapacitor. An example of a power source including a supercapacitor is described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2017 / 0112191 by Sur et al., the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0079] As shown in the figure, the control unit 102 may be formed with a control unit housing 101, which includes control components 106 (e.g., printed circuit board (PCB), integrated circuit, memory components, microcontroller, etc.), flow sensor 108, battery 110 and light-emitting diode (LED) 112, which are variably aligned. Examples of electronic components, their structures and constructions, their features, and their general methods of operation are described in U.S. Patent No. 4,735,217 to Gerth et al.; U.S. Patent No. 4,947,874 to Brooks et al.; U.S. Patent No. 5,372,148 to McCafferty et al.; U.S. Patent No. 6,040,560 to Fleischhauer et al.; U.S. Patent No. 7,040,314 to Nguyen et al. and U.S. Patent No. 8,205,622 to Pan; U.S. Patent Publication No. 2009 / 0230117 to Fernando et al.; U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0060554 to Collet et al. and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0270727 to Ampolini et al.; and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0257445 to Henry et al.; the full text of the above documents is incorporated herein by reference. Examples of batteries applicable to this disclosure are described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2010 / 0028766 by Peckerar et al., the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. In some embodiments, other indicators (e.g., haptic feedback components, audio feedback components, etc.) may be included in addition to or as an alternative to LEDs. Additional representative types of components or indicators, such as light-emitting diode (LED) components, and their construction and use, are described in U.S. Patent Publication No. 5,154,192 to Sprinkel et al.; U.S. Patent Publication No. 8,499,766 to Newton and U.S. Patent Publication No. 8,539,959 to Scatterday; U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0020825 to Galloway et al.; and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0216233 to Sears et al.; the full text of these documents is incorporated herein by reference. It should be understood that not all of the elements shown may be required in various embodiments. For example, in some implementations, the LED may be absent or may be replaced by other indicators such as a vibration indicator. Similarly, the flow sensor may be replaced by a manual actuator such as one or more manually actuated buttons.

[0080] In the depicted embodiments, the barrel 104 may be formed from a barrel housing 103, which may define a reservoir 144 configured to contain a liquid composition 145. In some embodiments, the reservoir may be part of the barrel housing (e.g., including molded features of the barrel housing), while in other embodiments, the reservoir may comprise a separate component. In some embodiments, the reservoir may be disposable. In other embodiments, the reservoir may be refillable. In various embodiments, the liquid composition contained in the liquid reservoir 144 may comprise an aerosol precursor composition. Some example types of substrates, reservoirs, or other components for storing liquid compositions are described in U.S. Patent No. 8,528,569 to Newton; U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0261487 to Chapman et al.; U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 00597800 to Davis et al.; and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0216232 to Bless et al.; the full text of the above documents is incorporated herein by reference. In addition, various wicking materials, as well as the construction and operation of those wicking materials in certain types of electronic cigarettes, are described in U.S. Patent No. 8,910,640 to Sears et al.; the full text of that document is incorporated herein by reference.

[0081] In some embodiments, the reservoir may be made of a polymeric material; in other embodiments, the polymeric material may be at least partially transparent or translucent. In some embodiments, such materials may include, but are not limited to, polycarbonate, acrylic acid, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), amorphous copolyester (PETG), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), liquid silicone rubber (LSR), cyclic olefin copolymers, polyethylene (PE), ionomer resins, polypropylene (PP), fluorinated ethylene propylene (FEP), styrene-methyl methacrylate (SMMA), styrene-acrylonitrile resin (SAN), polystyrene, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), and combinations thereof. In other embodiments, the reservoir may be made of other materials that are at least partially transparent or translucent. Such materials may include, for example, glass or ceramic materials.

[0082] In some embodiments, the aerosol precursor composition may contain nicotine that can be present in various concentrations. The source of nicotine may vary, and the nicotine contained in the aerosol precursor composition may be from a single source or a combination of two or more sources. For example, in some embodiments, the aerosol precursor composition may include tobacco-derived nicotine. In other embodiments, the aerosol precursor composition may include nicotine derived from other organic plant sources, such as non-tobacco plant sources, including, for example, plants from the Solanaceae family. In other embodiments, the aerosol precursor composition may include synthetic nicotine. In some embodiments, the nicotine contained in the aerosol precursor composition may be derived from non-tobacco plant sources, such as other members of the Solanaceae family.

[0083] In some embodiments, the aerosol precursor composition may additionally or alternatively include alcohol, other plant substances, other pharmaceutical substances, or combinations thereof.

[0084] In some embodiments, other aerosol compositions may comprise tobacco and / or tobacco-derived components. On one hand, tobacco may be provided as portions or pieces of tobacco, such as finely ground, pulverized, or powdered tobacco sheets. It may include tobacco beads, pellets, or other solid forms such as those described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0335070 by Sears et al., the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. On the other hand, tobacco may be provided in the form of an extract, such as a spray-dried extract containing many of the water-soluble components of tobacco. Alternatively, the tobacco extract may be in the form of an extract with a relatively high nicotine content, which also contains small amounts of other components derived from tobacco. On the other hand, tobacco-derived components may be provided in a relatively pure form, such as certain tobacco-derived flavorings. On one hand, tobacco-derived components that can be used in a highly purified or substantially pure form are nicotine (e.g., pharmaceutical-grade nicotine, USP / EP nicotine, etc.). In other embodiments, non-tobacco materials may form the aerosol precursor composition independently. In some embodiments, the aerosol precursor composition may include tobacco-extracted nicotine with tobacco or non-tobacco flavoring and / or non-tobacco-extracted nicotine with tobacco or non-tobacco flavoring.

[0085] In the described embodiments, the liquid composition, sometimes referred to as an aerosol precursor composition, vapor precursor composition, or “e-liquid,” may comprise a variety of components, which may include, for example, polyols (e.g., glycerol, propylene glycol, or mixtures thereof), nicotine, tobacco, tobacco extracts, and / or edible flavorings. The components and composition of representative types of aerosol precursors are also described and characterized in U.S. Patent No. 7,217,320 to Robinson et al., U.S. Patent Publication No. 2013 / 0008457 to Zheng et al., U.S. Patent Publication No. 2013 / 0213417 to Chong et al., U.S. Patent Publication No. 2014 / 0060554 to Collett et al., U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0030823 to Lipowicz et al., and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0020830 to Koller, and WO 2014 / 182736 to Bowen et al., the full text of which is incorporated herein by reference. Other aerosol precursors that may be used include those already included in the following products: RJ Reynolds Vapor's VUSE® product; Fontem Ventures' BLUTM product; Mistic Ecigs' MISTIC MENTHOL product; Nu Mark LLC's MARKTEN product; Juul Labs' JUUL product; and CN Creative Ltd's VYPE product. Also expected are the so-called "tobacco" for electronic cigarettes, already available from Johnson Creek Ltd. Other exemplary aerosol precursor compositions are sold under the following trade names: BLACK NOTE, COSMIC FOG, MILKMAN E-LIQUID, FIVE PAWNS, VAPOR CHEF, VAPE WILD, BOOSTED, THE STEAM FACTORY, MECH SAUCE, CASEYJONES MAINLINE RESERVE, DR. CRIMMY'S V-LIQUID, SMILEY E LIQUID, BEANTOWN VAPOR, CUTTWOOD, CYCLOPS VAPOR, SICBOY, GOOD LIFE VAPOR, TELEOS, PINUP VAPORS, SPACE JAM, MT. BAKER VAPOR, and JIMMY THE JUICE MAN.

[0086] The amount of aerosol precursor incorporated within the aerosol delivery system enables the aerosol generating device to provide acceptable perceived and desired performance characteristics. For example, a sufficient amount of aerosol-forming materials such as glycerol and / or propylene glycol is preferably used to ensure the production of a visible mainstream aerosol that resembles tobacco smoke in many respects. The amount of aerosol precursor within the aerosol generating system can depend on factors such as the desired number of puffs per aerosol generating device. In one or more embodiments, an aerosol precursor composition may include about 1 ml or more, about 2 ml or more, about 5 ml or more, or about 10 ml or more.

[0087] In some of the examples described above, the aerosol precursor composition comprises a glycerol-based liquid. However, in other embodiments, the aerosol precursor composition may be an aqueous liquid. In some embodiments, the aqueous liquid may consist of more than about 80% water. For example, in some embodiments, the percentage of water in the aqueous liquid may be in the closed range of about 90% to about 93%. In some embodiments, the aqueous liquid may include up to about 10% propylene glycol. For example, in some embodiments, the percentage of propylene glycol in the aqueous liquid may be in the closed range of about 4% to about 5%. In some embodiments, the aqueous liquid may include up to about 10% flavoring agent. For example, in some embodiments, the percentage of one or more flavoring agents in the aqueous liquid may be in the closed range of about 3% to about 7%. In some embodiments, the aqueous liquid may include up to about 1% nicotine. For example, in some embodiments, the percentage of nicotine in the aqueous liquid may be in the closed range of about 0.1% to about 0.3%. In some embodiments, the aqueous liquid may include up to about 10% cyclodextrin. For example, in some embodiments, the percentage of cyclodextrin in the aqueous liquid may be in a closed range of about 3% to 5%. In other embodiments, the aerosol precursor composition may be a combination of a glycerol-based liquid and an aqueous liquid. For example, some embodiments may include up to about 50% water and less than about 20% glycerol. The remaining components may include one or more of propylene glycol, flavoring agents, nicotine, cyclodextrin, etc.The following documents disclose examples of potentially suitable water-based liquid compositions: GB 1817863.2, submitted November 1, 2018, entitled "Aerosolisable Formulation"; GB 1817864.0, submitted November 1, 2018, entitled "Aerosolisable Formulation"; GB 1817867.3, submitted November 1, 2018, entitled "Aerosolisable Formulation"; GB 1817865.7, submitted November 1, 2018, entitled "Aerosolisable Formulation"; GB 1817859.0, submitted November 1, 2018, entitled "Aerosolisable Formulation"; GB 1817866.5, submitted November 1, 2018, entitled "Geland Crystalline"; GB1817861.6 for Powder; GB1817862.4 entitled Aerosolisable Formulation submitted on November 1, 2018; GB1817868.1 entitled Aerosolisable Formulation submitted on November 1, 2018; and GB1817860.8 entitled Aerosolised Formulation submitted on November 1, 2018 are all included in this paper in full as references.

[0088] As described above, in various embodiments, the liquid composition may include a flavoring agent. In some embodiments, the flavoring agent may be premixed with the liquid. In other embodiments, the flavoring agent may be delivered separately downstream of the atomizer as a primary or secondary flavoring agent. Further embodiments may combine premixed flavoring agents with downstream flavoring agents. As used herein, the term "flavoring" refers to compounds or components that can be aerosolized and delivered to a user and impart a sensory experience in terms of taste and / or aroma. Exemplary flavorings include, but are not limited to, vanillin, ethyl vanillin, cheese, tea, coffee, fruit (e.g., apple, cherry, strawberry, peach, and citrus flavors, including lime and lemon, mango, and other citrus essences), maple, menthol, peppermint, spearmint, wintergreen, nutmeg, clove, lavender, cardamom, ginger, honey, fennel, sage, rosemary, hibiscus, rosehip, mate tea, wintergreen tea, honey tree tea, loipas tea, amaranth, mojito, Paraguayan tea, ginseng, apple chamomile, turmeric root powder, false purslane, ginkgo leaf, nightshade, cinnamon, sandalwood, jasmine, acerola, cocoa bean, licorice; and flavorings and flavoring packets traditionally used to flavor the types and characteristics of cigarette, cigar, and pipe tobacco. Other examples include edible flavorings derived from or mimicking burley tobacco, oriental tobacco, flue-cured tobacco, etc. Syrups such as high-fructose corn syrup may also be used. Suitable exemplary plant-derived compositions are disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 9,107,453 to Dube et al. and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2012 / 0152265, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. The selection of these additional components is variable based on factors such as the sensory properties desired for smoking articles, and this disclosure is intended to cover any such additional components that are obvious to a person skilled in the art of tobacco and tobacco-related or tobacco-derived products. See, for example, Gutcho's "Tobacco Flavoring Substances and Methods" (1972) of Noyes Data Corp. and Leffingwell et al.'s "Tobacco Flavoring for Smoking Products" (1972), the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. It should be noted that references to flavorings should not be limited to any single flavoring as described above, and may actually refer to combinations of one or more flavorings.

[0089] Return to reference Figure 2The reservoir 144 of the depicted embodiment may be in fluid communication (directly or via one or more additional components) with at least a portion of the atomizing assembly 115. As will be discussed in more detail below, in some embodiments, the reservoir 144 may comprise a separate container (e.g., formed of walls substantially impermeable to the liquid composition), and in some embodiments, the container may be configured to rotate relative to the body of the aerosol delivery device (e.g., the control housing unit and / or the cartridge housing unit). In some embodiments, the walls of the reservoir may be flexible and / or foldable, while in other embodiments, the walls of the reservoir may be substantially rigid. In some embodiments, the reservoir may be substantially sealed to prevent the aerosol precursor composition from passing through it except via any specific opening or conduit explicitly provided for the passage of the liquid composition, such as through one or more delivery elements as otherwise described herein.

[0090] Electrical connection 116 connects atomizing assembly 115 to control component 106 and / or battery 110. In the depicted embodiment, atomizing assembly 115 is connected to base 140 of cartridge 104, which provides electrical connection to control component 106 and / or battery 110 when assembled to control unit 102. As indicated, atomizing assembly 115 is configured to be electrically connected to battery 110 and / or control component 106. In this way, atomizing assembly 115 of the depicted embodiment can be powered by battery 110 and / or control component 106 (e.g., thereby vibrating components of atomizing assembly at a relatively high rate). In various embodiments, atomizing assembly 115 may be fluidly coupled to a portion of a liquid composition, such that atomizing assembly 115 generates an aerosol from the contacting liquid composition. In various embodiments, atomizing assembly may be directly fluidly coupled to a portion of a liquid composition, or indirectly fluidly coupled to a portion of a liquid composition, such as via a liquid delivery element. In various embodiments, the liquid delivery element may have one or more layers and may be made of a single material or multiple materials. In various embodiments, the liquid delivery element may be of any shape and may be a porous, semi-porous, or non-porous absorbent / adsorbent material.

[0091] For example, in some embodiments, the liquid delivery element may be formed from materials such as fibrous materials (e.g., organic cotton, cellulose acetate, regenerated cellulose fabric, glass fiber), silk, granules, porous ceramics (e.g., alumina, silica, zirconium oxide, SiC, SiN, AlN, etc.), porous metals, porous carbon, graphite, porous glass, sintered glass beads, sintered ceramic beads, porous polymers, or the like. In some embodiments, the liquid delivery element may also be any material comprising an open pore network (i.e., multiple interconnected pores that allow fluid to flow through the element from one pore to another in multiple directions). The pores may be nanopores, micropores, macropores, or combinations thereof. As further discussed herein, some embodiments of this disclosure may specifically relate to the use of non-fibrous delivery elements. Thus, fibrous delivery elements are explicitly excluded. Alternatively, combinations of fibrous and non-fibrous delivery elements may be employed. In some embodiments, the liquid delivery element may be a substantially solid, non-porous material, such as a polymer or a dense ceramic or metal, configured to guide liquid through pores or slots without relying on wicking by capillary action. This solid substrate can be used in conjunction with a porous absorbent pad. The absorbent pad can be formed from silica-based fibers, organic cotton, rayon fibers, cellulose acetate, regenerated cellulose fabric, highly porous ceramics, or metal mesh, etc. Representative types of substrates, reservoirs, or other components for supporting aerosol precursors are described in U.S. Patent No. 8,528,569 to Newton; U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0261487 to Chapman et al.; U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 00597800 to Davis et al.; and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0216232 to Bless et al.; the full text of these documents is incorporated herein by reference. Furthermore, various wicking materials, and the construction and operation of wicking materials in specific types of electronic cigarettes, are described in U.S. Patent No. 8,910,640 to Sears et al.; the full text of this document is incorporated herein by reference. In some embodiments, the fluid delivery element may be formed partially or entirely from porous monomers such as porous ceramics, porous glass, etc. For example, exemplary monomeric materials applicable to embodiments of this disclosure are described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2017 / 0188626 by Davis et al. and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0123989 by LaMothe, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. In some embodiments, the porous monomer may be formed into a substantially solid wicking portion.

[0092] In various embodiments, one end of the liquid delivery element can be configured to be placed close to the mesh plate and positioned between the mesh plate and the liquid composition in the reservoir, such that the liquid delivery element acts as a secondary reservoir, absorbing or adsorbing liquid from the reservoir, allowing the mesh plate to remain in contact with the liquid composition even when the reservoir is empty. In this way, the liquid delivery element is configured to facilitate contact between the liquid composition and the atomizing assembly.

[0093] In some embodiments, the liquid composition may be driven through a component of the atomizing assembly, resulting in the generation of multiple aerosol particles. Similarly, in other embodiments, vibration of a component of the atomizing assembly may generate ultrasonic waves and / or surface acoustic waves of the liquid composition within the liquid composition, resulting in the formation of an aerosol on the surface of the liquid composition. As will be described in more detail below, in some embodiments, the liquid composition may be applied and / or transferred to a component of the atomizing assembly to generate an aerosol.

[0094] In the depicted embodiment, the control unit housing 101 includes an air inlet 118, which may include an opening in the housing near the coupling 124 to allow ambient air to enter the control unit housing 101, then pass through a cavity 125 of the coupling 124, and ultimately enter or surround the atomizing assembly 115, where it may mix with the evaporated aerosol precursor composition to comprise an aerosol delivered to the user. It should be noted that in other embodiments, the air inlet 118 is not limited to on or near the control unit housing 101. For example, in some embodiments, the air inlet may be formed through the cartridge housing 103 (e.g., so that it does not enter the control unit 102) or some other portion of the aerosol delivery device 100. In the depicted embodiment, a nozzle portion including the opening 128 may be present in the cartridge housing 103 (e.g., at the nozzle tip of the cartridge 104) to allow the formed aerosol to exit from the cartridge 104, for example, for delivery to a user inhaling at the nozzle tip of the cartridge 104.

[0095] In various embodiments, the barrel 104 may also include at least one electronic component, which may include integrated circuits, memory components, sensors, etc., but such a component is not mandatory. In those embodiments that include such a component, the electronic component 150 may be adapted to communicate with the control component 106 and / or with external devices via wired or wireless means. In various embodiments, the electronic component 150 may be located anywhere within the barrel 104 or its base 140. Some examples of electronic / control components applicable to this disclosure are described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2019 / 0014819 by Sur, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Although the control component 106 and the flow sensor 108 are shown separately in the depicted embodiments, it should be noted that in some embodiments, the control component and the flow sensor may be combined into an electronic circuit board to which the air flow sensor is directly attached. In some embodiments, the air flow sensor may include its own circuit board or other base elements to which it may be attached. In some embodiments, a flexible circuit board may be employed. The flexible circuit board may be configured in various shapes, including substantially tubular shapes. For example, the construction of a printed circuit board and pressure sensor is described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0245658 by Worm et al., the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Additional types of sensing or detection mechanisms, their structures and constructions, their components, and general methods of operation are described in U.S. Patent No. 5,261,424 to Sprinkel; U.S. Patent No. 5,372,148 to McCafferty et al.; and PCT WO 2010 / 003480 by Flick, the full text of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0096] In some embodiments, when a user inhales onto article 100, sensor 108 detects airflow and activates atomizing assembly 115, which evaporates the liquid composition. As described above, in some embodiments, inhalation onto the mouthpiece of article 100 allows ambient air to enter through inlet 118 and pass through cavity 125 and base 140 in connection 124. In cartridge 104, the inhaled air combines with the generated vapor to form an aerosol. The aerosol is agitated, drawn in, or otherwise extracted from atomizing assembly 115 and drawn out from mouth opening 128 in mouthpiece of article 100. As noted, in other embodiments, atomizing assembly 115 may be manually activated, such as by a button (not shown), in the absence of an airflow sensor. Furthermore, in some embodiments, air intake may be performed through cartridge or between cartridge and control unit. It should be noted that in some embodiments, one or more components may be present between atomizing assembly and the opening in mouthpiece of article. For example, in the depicted embodiment, the heating element 147 is located downstream of the atomizing assembly 115. In various embodiments, the heating element may include any means configured to increase the temperature of the generated aerosol, including, for example, one or more coil heating elements, ceramic heating elements, etc.

[0097] In some embodiments, one or more input elements may be included in the aerosol delivery device (and may replace or supplement airflow sensors, pressure sensors, or manual buttons). In various embodiments, input elements may be included to allow a user to control the functions of the device and / or to output information to the user. Any component or combination of components may be used as an input for controlling the functions of the device. For example, one or more buttons are described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0245658 by Worm et al., the full text of which is incorporated herein by reference. Similarly, a touchscreen may be used as described in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 643,626 by Sears et al., filed March 10, 2015, the full text of which is incorporated herein by reference. As a further example, components adapted for gesture recognition based on specified movements of the aerosol delivery device may be used as inputs. See U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0158782 by Henry et al., the full text of which is incorporated herein by reference. As another example, a capacitive sensor can be implemented on an aerosol delivery device to allow a user to provide input, for example, by touching the surface of the device on which the capacitive sensor is implemented.

[0098] In some embodiments, the input element may include a computer or computing device such as a smartphone or tablet. Specifically, the aerosol delivery device may be connected to a computer or other device, such as by using a USB cable or similar protocol wiring. The aerosol delivery device may also communicate wirelessly with a computer or other device used as input. For example, see the system and method for controlling a device via a read request as described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0007561 by Ampolini et al., the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. In such embodiments, an application or other computer program may be used in conjunction with a computer or other computing device to input control instructions to the aerosol delivery device, such control instructions including, for example, the ability to form an aerosol of a particular composition by selecting the nicotine content and / or the content of additionally included flavorings.

[0099] U.S. Patent No. 5,967,148 to Harris et al.; No. 5,934,289 to Watkins et al.; No. 5,954,979 to Counts et al.; No. 6,040,560 to Fleischhauer et al.; No. 8,365,742 to Hon; No. 8,402,976 to Fernando et al.; U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2010 / 0163063 to Fernando et al.; and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 201... Other features, controllers, or components that can be incorporated into the aerosol delivery system of this disclosure are described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 3 / 0192623; U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2013 / 0298905 by Leven et al.; U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2013 / 0180553 by Kim et al.; U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0000638 by Sebastian et al.; U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0261495 by Novak et al.; and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0261408 by DePiano et al., the full text of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0100] In various embodiments, the atomizing assembly may include a variety of different components or devices configured to generate an aerosol from the liquid composition. For example, in some embodiments, the atomizing assembly may include a jet atomizer assembly configured to generate an aerosol using compressed air. In other embodiments, the atomizing assembly may include an ultrasonic component configured to generate an aerosol using ultrasound generated in the liquid composition. In other embodiments, the atomizing assembly may include a vibrating mesh assembly comprising a piezoelectric material (e.g., a piezoelectric ceramic material) that may be fixed to and / or substantially surrounding a mesh (e.g., a perforated plate) that vibrates within or near the surface of the liquid composition to generate an aerosol. In other embodiments, the atomizing assembly may include a surface acoustic wave (SAW) or Rayleigh wave component that utilizes surface wave characteristics to generate an aerosol at the surface of the liquid composition. It should be noted that, for the purposes of this application, the ultrasonic component may be any component configured to generate ultrasound in the liquid composition. In some embodiments, for example, the vibrating mesh assembly may also operate as an ultrasonic component.

[0101] An example of an atomizing component in one embodiment is shown in Figure 3 shown in . Specifically, Figure 3 A piezoelectric ring 217 is shown, which is fixed to and substantially surrounds a mesh plate 219. In some embodiments, additional components may be included. For example, in some embodiments, a support component may be included on the side of the mesh plate opposite the vibrating component (e.g., such that the mesh plate is sandwiched between the support component and the vibrating component). Although other configurations are possible, in some embodiments, the support component may include a support ring. In various embodiments, the support component may be made of any suitable material, including but not limited to polymers, metals, and / or ceramic materials. In this way, in some embodiments, the support component may increase the lifespan of the mesh plate. In some embodiments, the support component may be replaceable, while in other embodiments, the support component may be fixed to the mesh plate and / or the vibrating component. In some embodiments, an auxiliary component located between the mesh plate and the vibrating component may be used. Although other configurations are possible, in some embodiments, the auxiliary component may include an auxiliary ring. In various embodiments, the auxiliary component may be made of any suitable material, including but not limited to polymers, metals, and / or ceramic materials. In this way, the auxiliary component may facilitate interfacial contact between the components. In some implementations, the auxiliary components may be replaceable, while in other implementations, the auxiliary components may be fixed to the mesh plate and / or the vibration component.

[0102] In various embodiments, the vibrating component and the mesh plate can be permanently fixed together, for example by adhesives such as epoxy resin or other glues, or by ultrasonic welding, mechanical fasteners, etc. It should be noted that although the depicted embodiments describe a vibrating component in the form of a piezoelectric ring, in other embodiments, the vibrating component is not limited to a ring-shaped object. For example, in some embodiments, the piezoelectric component can have rectangular, elliptical, hexagonal, triangular, and regular or irregular polygonal shapes. In various embodiments, the mesh plate can have a variety of different constructions. For example, in some embodiments, the mesh plate can have a substantially flat profile. In other embodiments, the mesh plate can have a substantially dome shape, which can be concave or convex relative to the liquid composition. In other embodiments, the mesh plate can include substantially flat portions and dome portions. In various embodiments, the mesh plate can be made of a variety of different materials. In some embodiments, the mesh plate can be made of metallic materials, such as, but not limited to, stainless steel, palladium nickel, or titanium. In other embodiments, the mesh plate can be made of polymeric materials, such as, for example, polyimide polymers. In still other embodiments, the mesh plate can be made of a combination of materials.

[0103] In various implementations, the structure of the atomizing component can be varied. For example, Figures 4A-4F Exemplary implementations of various atomizing components are shown. Specifically, Figure 4A An atomizing assembly including a piezoelectric ring 217A is shown, which is fixed to and substantially surrounds a mesh plate 219A. Figure 4B An atomizing assembly including a mesh plate 219A sandwiched between two parts of a piezoelectric ring 217A is shown. Figure 4C An atomizing assembly including a piezoelectric ring 217C is shown, which is fixed to and substantially surrounds a mesh plate 219C, wherein at least a portion of the mesh plate 219C is curved. Figure 4D An atomizing assembly is shown, comprising a mesh plate 219D sandwiched between two portions of a piezoelectric ring 217D, wherein at least a portion of the mesh plate 219D is curved. Figure 4E An atomizing assembly including a piezoelectric ring 217E is shown, which is fixed to and substantially surrounds one side of a mesh plate 219E, wherein the other side of the mesh plate 219E includes a metal ring 221E that substantially surrounds and is fixed to the mesh plate. Figure 4F An atomizing assembly including a mesh plate 219F is shown. One side of the mesh plate 219F includes a metal ring 221F, which substantially surrounds and is fixed to the mesh plate. The mesh plate 219F and the metal ring 221F are sandwiched between two parts of a piezoelectric ring 217F.

[0104] Return to reference Figure 3The mesh 219 includes a plurality of perforations. In some embodiments, the perforations may be defined by circular openings in the surface of the mesh. In other embodiments, the perforations may be defined by non-circular openings in the surface of the mesh, such as elliptical, rectangular, triangular, or regular or irregular polygonal openings. In various embodiments, a variety of different methods may be used to create the perforations, including but not limited to via laser (e.g., femtosecond laser), via electroplating (e.g., photolithography), or via the use of high-energy or low-energy ions or electron beams. In various embodiments, the shape defined by the perforations through the mesh may vary. For example, in some embodiments, the shape defined by the perforations through the mesh may be substantially cylindrical. In other embodiments, the shape defined by the perforations through the mesh may be substantially conical (e.g., having a truncated conical shape that defines a smaller opening on one surface of the mesh and a larger opening on an opposite surface of the mesh). In other embodiments, the shape defined by the perforations through the mesh may be quadrilateral or pyramidal. In some embodiments, a substantially conical shape is considered to improve the mesh's performance in atomizing liquid compositions. Although any orientation of the mesh can be used, in some embodiments, the perforations define a generally conical shape through the mesh, with larger openings positioned close to the surface of the liquid composition and smaller openings defining an aerosol outlet region. In some embodiments with perforations defining a generally conical shape, the size of the smaller opening can range from about 1 micrometer to about 10 micrometers within a closed range, with an average size of about 2 micrometers to about 5 micrometers. In other embodiments, the size of the smaller opening can range from about several hundred nanometers to about 4 micrometers within a closed range, with an average size of about 2 micrometers to about 3.1 micrometers. In other embodiments, the size of the smaller opening can have a size within a closed range from about several hundred nanometers to about 2 micrometers, with an average size of about 1 micrometer. In some embodiments, the size of the larger opening can range from about 10 micrometers to about 60 micrometers within a closed range, with an average size of about 20 micrometers to about 30 micrometers. In other embodiments, the larger opening can have a size within a closed range from about 5 micrometers to about 20 micrometers, with an average size of about 10 micrometers. In some embodiments, the size of the perforations can be substantially uniform across the perforated portion of the mesh; however, in other embodiments, the size of the perforations can vary. In this way, the aerosols formed can have aerosol droplets of different sizes. For example, in some embodiments, the perforations may be larger in one part of the plate and smaller in another part. Such parts may include, for example, the center of the plate and the perimeter of the plate, or alternating rings extending radially from the center of the plate.

[0105] In various embodiments, the stencil may have any number of perforations. In some embodiments, for example, the number of perforations in the stencil may range from about 200 to about 6000, with an average number of perforations of about 1100 to about 2500. In other embodiments, the number of perforations in the stencil may be within a closed range of about 400 to about 1000. In various embodiments, the thickness of the piezoelectric ring and the thickness of the stencil may vary. For example, in some embodiments, the thickness of the stencil may range from a few micrometers to a few millimeters. In various embodiments, the total diameter of the stencil may vary. For example, in some embodiments, the total diameter of the stencil may range from about a few millimeters to about 30 millimeters. In some embodiments, the outer diameter of the piezoelectric ring may be larger than the total diameter of the stencil. In other embodiments, the outer diameter may be substantially the same as the total diameter of the stencil. In various embodiments, the diameter of the perforated region may be smaller than the total diameter of the stencil. For example, in some embodiments, the diameter of the perforated region may be within a closed range of about 1 millimeter to about 20 millimeters, with an average of about 4 millimeters to about 12 millimeters. In some embodiments, the inner diameter of the piezoelectric ring may be larger than the diameter of the perforated area of ​​the mesh. In other embodiments, the inner diameter of the piezoelectric ring may be substantially the same as or smaller than the diameter of the perforated area of ​​the mesh. In some embodiments, the thickness of the piezoelectric ring may range from several hundred micrometers to tens of millimeters. For example, in some embodiments, the thickness of the piezoelectric ring may be less than 1 millimeter.

[0106] In various embodiments, the piezoelectric ring can be made of a piezoelectric ceramic material. Generally, piezoelectric ceramic materials possess piezoelectric properties (e.g., ferroelectric properties), wherein they are configured to undergo only a small degree of shape distortion (e.g., 1-2 micrometers) when exposed to electrical stimulation. This occurs due to a change in the crystal structure of the piezoelectric ceramic material (e.g., from orthorhombic to cubic, or from hexagonal to cubic, etc.). For a piezoelectric ceramic ring, this shape distortion results in internal strain and thus causes the disk to contract, causing the disk to bend due to its rigid structure. Since the ring is fixed to the mesh, the bending of the ring is transferred to the mesh material. When the current is disconnected from the piezoelectric ring, the ring and the mesh return to their original shape and position. Therefore, the continuous change in shape and position will result in an oscillating motion that can be used as a vibration source. In various embodiments, the frequency of the piezoelectric ring can range from several Hz to several MHz. For example, in some embodiments, the frequency of the piezoelectric ring is in a closed-range interval of about 50 kHz to about 150 kHz, averaging about 110 kHz in one embodiment, about 113 kHz in another, about 117 kHz in yet another, about 130 kHz in another, about 150 kHz in another, about 170 kHz in another, and about 250 kHz in yet another. In other embodiments, the frequency of the piezoelectric ring is in a closed-range interval of about 1 MHz to about 5 MHz, averaging about 3 MHz to about 3.5 MHz.

[0107] In various embodiments of this disclosure, a variety of different piezoelectric materials are possible, including natural or synthetic materials. Some non-limiting examples of natural piezoelectric materials include, for example, quartz, merlinite (AlPO4), sucrose, Rochelle salt, topaz, tourmaline group minerals, lead titanate (PbTiO3), and collagen. Some non-limiting examples of synthetic materials include, for example, (La3Ga5SiO14), gallium phosphate, gallium orthophosphate (GaPO4), lithium niobate (LiNbO3), lithium tantalate (LiTaO3), AlN, ZnO, barium titanate (BaTiO3), lead zirconate titanate (Pb[ZrxTi1-x]O3) (also known as PZT), potassium niobate (KNbO3), sodium tungstate (Na2WO3), Ba2NaNb5O5, Pb2KNb5O15, zinc oxide (ZnO), potassium sodium niobate ((K,Na)NbO3) (also known as NKN), bismuth ferrite (BiFeO3), sodium niobate NaNbO3, barium titanate (BaTiO3), bismuth titanate Bi4Ti3O12, sodium titanate, and sodium bismuth titanate NaBi(TiO3)2. In other embodiments, polymers exhibiting piezoelectric properties may be used, including but not limited to polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF).

[0108] In various embodiments, the mesh plate 219 of the atomizing assembly 215 may contact, and / or be close to, at least a portion of the liquid composition, and / or receive (e.g., via a delivery mechanism) at least a portion of the liquid composition. In this way, vibrations generated by the plate generate aerosols from the contacting liquid composition. Specifically, the liquid composition is driven through a plurality of perforations, resulting in the generation of a plurality of aerosol particles. Similarly, in other embodiments, such as those where the mesh plate is, for example, immersed in the liquid composition, vibrations of the plate generate ultrasonic waves in the liquid composition, resulting in the formation of aerosols on the surface of the liquid composition. As will be described in more detail below, in other embodiments, the liquid composition may be applied and / or transferred to the atomizing assembly to generate aerosols.

[0109] An example of an atomizing component in another implementation is shown in Figure 5 shown in . Specifically, Figure 5 A piezoelectric ring 317 is shown, which is fixed to and substantially surrounds a mesh plate 319. As shown, the atomizing assembly 315 is positioned near one end of a reservoir 344 containing a liquid composition 345. The mesh plate 319 of the depicted embodiment comprises two portions: a substantially flat outer portion 319A and a dome-shaped inner portion 319B. In the depicted embodiment, the inner dome portion 319B of the mesh plate 319 is configured to interact with the liquid composition 345 and has a convex configuration relative to the reservoir 344 (and the liquid composition 345). In the depicted embodiment, the mesh plate 319 includes a plurality of perforations 360 having a substantially conical shape. Specifically, the plurality of perforations 360 includes a larger end 360A and a smaller end 360B, the larger end 360A being configured to be positioned near the interface with the liquid composition 345, and the aerosol formed passing through the smaller end 360B.

[0110] In various embodiments, promoting contact between the liquid composition and the atomizing component (e.g., maintaining or promoting contact) may be advantageous. Along these lines, Figure 6 A side view is shown of a portion of a reservoir 444 containing a liquid composition 445 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure and a portion of an atomizing assembly 415 configured to generate an aerosol from the liquid composition. Figure 7A perspective view of a portion of a reservoir 444 housing the atomizing component 415 is shown (wherein, for clarity, the liquid composition has been removed). In the depicted embodiment, the reservoir 444 has a substantially hollow spherical shape; however, in other embodiments, other shapes are possible, including, for example, a substantially hollow cylindrical shape, a substantially hollow prismatic shape, a substantially hollow cubic shape, or any other shape configured to contain the liquid composition. Regardless of the shape of the reservoir, in various embodiments, the reservoir may be located in different positions within the housing of the aerosol delivery device.

[0111] In some embodiments, the reservoir may be made of a polymeric material; in other embodiments, the polymeric material may be at least partially transparent or translucent. In some embodiments, such materials may include, but are not limited to, polycarbonate, acrylic acid, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), amorphous copolyester (PETG), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), liquid silicone rubber (LSR), cyclic olefin copolymers, polyethylene (PE), ionomer resins, polypropylene (PP), fluorinated ethylene propylene (FEP), styrene-methyl methacrylate (SMMA), styrene-acrylonitrile resin (SAN), polystyrene, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), and combinations thereof. In other embodiments, the reservoir may be made of other materials that are at least partially transparent or translucent. Such materials may include, for example, glass or ceramic materials.

[0112] In the depicted embodiments, the reservoir 444 includes an opening 446 near its top. In various embodiments, the opening 446 can be used to fill the reservoir 444 with a liquid composition 445. In the depicted embodiments, the opening 446 may be covered by a reservoir cap 448, which in some embodiments may include multiple openings and / or may be substantially permeable to allow formed aerosols to exit the reservoir. Although in other embodiments the atomizing assembly may be located at other locations within the reservoir, the atomizing assembly 415 of the depicted assembly is located opposite the opening 446 of the reservoir 444, near its bottom. In the depicted embodiments, the reservoir 444 also includes an electrical connection 416 extending to the atomizing assembly 415 and electrically connecting the atomizing assembly 415 (directly or indirectly via one or more additional components) to a control component and / or a battery. In various embodiments, the electrical connection 416 may extend into the interior and / or exterior of the reservoir 444.

[0113] In various embodiments, the reservoir of this disclosure may be configured to be freely rotatable or otherwise rotated relative to the aerosol delivery device, such as via active control. As shown, the reservoir 444 of the depicted embodiment is configured to rotate about an axis (axis 450) via a pair of rotating elements 452 attached to the aerosol delivery device (not shown). In various embodiments, the rotating elements 452 may be attached to a cartridge housing, a control unit housing, or any other component of the aerosol delivery device that would allow the reservoir to rotate relative to it. In various embodiments, the rotating elements may include a variety of different components configured to allow the reservoir to rotate relative to the aerosol delivery device, including, for example, bearing elements, pins configured to rotate within corresponding pawls or holes, etc. In some embodiments, the rotating elements 452 may facilitate electrical connections between the electrical connection 416 and the battery and / or control components.

[0114] In various embodiments, the rotational configuration of the reservoir 444 of the depicted embodiments facilitates contact between the liquid composition 445 and the atomizing assembly 415, independent of the position of the aerosol delivery device. To facilitate contact between the liquid composition 445 and the atomizing assembly 415 of the depicted embodiments, the bottom end of the reservoir 444 (e.g., the portion of the reservoir 444 near the atomizing assembly 415) is weighted relative to the top end. In various embodiments, the weighting of the reservoir can be implemented in a variety of different ways. For example, in some embodiments, the liquid composition itself provides sufficient weight to allow the reservoir to rotate relative to the aerosol delivery device. In other embodiments, the atomizing assembly provides sufficient weight to allow the reservoir to rotate relative to the aerosol delivery device. In other embodiments, weight may be added to the reservoir near the atomizing assembly to allow the reservoir to rotate relative to the aerosol delivery device. In other embodiments, the reservoir itself may be configured (e.g., by providing additional material near the atomizing assembly) to provide sufficient weight to allow the reservoir to rotate relative to the aerosol delivery device. In some embodiments, the reservoir may be configured to actively rotate relative to the aerosol delivery device. For example, in some embodiments, the reservoir may be actively rotated relative to the position of the aerosol delivery device using, for example, an electromagnetic device. Such embodiments may include reservoirs configured to rotate within another portion in the presence of hydraulic fluid (e.g., substantially spherical reservoirs configured to rotate within another substantially spherical portion).

[0115] Figures 8A-8C The accompanying drawings illustrate several additional examples of reservoir constructions, showing a series of top-view schematic diagrams of portions of the reservoir and atomizing components of various aerosol delivery devices according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. Specifically, Figure 8AA generally cylindrical reservoir 544 (including an atomizing component 515 positioned near its bottom end) is shown, configured to rotate about axis 550 via a rotating element 552, but in other embodiments, the reservoir may have any shape. Figure 8B A reservoir 644 (including an atomizing component 615 positioned near its bottom end) is shown as a generally cubic structure configured to rotate about axis 650 via a rotating element 652, but in other embodiments, the reservoir may have any shape. Figure 8C A generally elliptical aerosol delivery device 700 is shown, which has a generally cylindrical reservoir 744 (including an atomizing assembly 715 positioned near its bottom end) configured to rotate about an axis 750 via a rotating element 752. Figure 8C In this embodiment, the reservoir 744 is positioned close to the side of the aerosol delivery device 700 closest to the opening 728 through which the aerosol is delivered to the user. By forming the aerosol delivery device in this way and by positioning the opening 728 of the nozzle portion in this position, the reservoir 744 of the depicted embodiment facilitates contact between the liquid composition in the reservoir 744 and the atomizing component 715 via rotation of the reservoir 744 about the axis 750, independent of the position of the aerosol delivery device.

[0116] It should be noted that, although in some embodiments the aerosol delivery device of this disclosure may include separate cartridge and control unit components, wherein the reservoir may be non-refillable or refillable, in other embodiments the aerosol delivery device of this disclosure may include a single body, wherein the reservoir may be refillable or non-refillable. For example, Figure 9 An aerosol delivery device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Specifically, Figure 9A perspective view of an aerosol delivery device 800 is shown. As shown, the aerosol delivery device 800 does not include separate cartridges and control units, but instead integrates these components into a single body having a common housing 805. As shown, the housing 805 includes a nozzle portion with an opening 828. The aerosol delivery device 800 of the depicted embodiment also includes a reservoir 844 having a substantially spherical shape. In the depicted embodiment, the reservoir 844 includes an opening 846 near its top. In various embodiments, the opening 846 can be used to fill the reservoir 844 with a liquid composition. In the depicted embodiment, the opening 846 can be covered by a reservoir cap 848. Although in other embodiments the atomizing component may be located at other locations within the reservoir, the atomizing component 815 of the depicted assembly is located opposite the opening 846 of the reservoir 844, near its bottom. In the depicted embodiments, the reservoir 844 also includes an electrical connection (not shown) that electrically connects the atomizing assembly 815 (directly or indirectly via one or more additional components) to the control components and / or the battery. In various embodiments, the electrical connection may extend into the interior and / or exterior of the reservoir 844. In some embodiments, a rotating element 852 may facilitate the electrical connection between the atomizing assembly 815 and the battery and / or the control components.

[0117] In various embodiments, the reservoir of this disclosure may be configured to be freely rotatable or otherwise rotated relative to the aerosol delivery device, such as via active control. As shown, the reservoir 844 of the depicted embodiment is configured to rotate about an axis (axis 850) via a pair of rotating elements 852 attached to the aerosol delivery device 800. In various embodiments, the rotating elements 852 may be attached to the housing 805 or any other component of the aerosol delivery device that would allow the reservoir to rotate relative to it. In various embodiments, the rotating elements may include a variety of different components configured to allow the reservoir to rotate relative to the aerosol delivery device, including, for example, bearing elements, pins configured to rotate within corresponding pawls or holes, etc.

[0118] In various embodiments, the rotational configuration of the reservoir 844 of the depicted embodiments facilitates contact between the liquid composition and the atomizing assembly 815, independent of the position of the aerosol delivery device. To facilitate contact between the liquid composition and the atomizing assembly 815 of the depicted embodiments, the bottom end of the reservoir 844 (e.g., the portion of the reservoir 844 near the atomizing assembly 815) is weighted relative to the top end. In various embodiments, the weighting of the reservoir can be implemented in a variety of different ways. For example, in some embodiments, the liquid composition itself provides sufficient weight to allow the reservoir to rotate relative to the aerosol delivery device. In other embodiments, the atomizing assembly provides sufficient weight to allow the reservoir to rotate relative to the aerosol delivery device. In other embodiments, weight may be added to the reservoir near the atomizing assembly to allow the reservoir to rotate relative to the aerosol delivery device. In other embodiments, the reservoir itself may be configured (e.g., by providing additional material near the atomizing assembly) to provide sufficient weight to allow the reservoir to rotate relative to the aerosol delivery device. In some embodiments, the reservoir may be configured to actively rotate relative to the aerosol delivery device. For example, in some embodiments, the reservoir may be actively rotated using, for example, an electromagnetic component relative to the position of the aerosol delivery device. Such embodiments may include reservoirs configured to rotate within another portion in the presence of hydraulic fluid (e.g., substantially spherical reservoirs configured to rotate within another substantially spherical portion).

[0119] Although in some embodiments the rotation of the reservoir may be performed via rotation about one axis relative to the aerosol delivery device, in other embodiments the rotation of the reservoir may be performed about two axes relative to the aerosol delivery device. Figure 10 An illustrative example of this implementation is shown. Specifically, Figure 10 A top cross-sectional schematic diagram of a portion of the reservoir 944 and atomizing assembly 915 of an aerosol delivery device according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Although in other embodiments the atomizing assembly may be located at other locations within the reservoir, the atomizing assembly 915 of the depicted assembly is positioned near the bottom of the reservoir 944. In the depicted embodiment, the reservoir 944 also includes an electrical connection (not shown) that electrically connects the atomizing assembly 915 (directly or indirectly via one or more additional components) to a control component and / or a battery. In various embodiments, the electrical connection may extend into the interior and / or exterior of the reservoir 944. In some embodiments, a rotating element may facilitate the electrical connection between the atomizing assembly 915 and the battery and / or control component.

[0120] In various embodiments, the reservoir of this disclosure can be configured to be positionally free relative to the aerosol delivery device or to rotate in other ways (such as via active control). As shown in the figure, Figure 10 One embodiment includes an intermediate frame 960 configured to rotate relative to the housing 905 of the aerosol delivery device via a pair of first rotating elements 952A about a first axis (axis 950A). In various embodiments, the first rotating elements 952A may be attached to the housing 905 or any other component of the aerosol delivery device that would allow the intermediate frame 960 to rotate relative to it. In various embodiments, the first rotating elements may include a variety of different components configured to allow the intermediate frame to rotate relative to the aerosol delivery device, including, for example, bearing elements, pins configured to rotate within corresponding pawls or holes, etc.

[0121] Further, in the depicted embodiment, the reservoir 944 is configured to rotate relative to the intermediate frame 960 about a second axis (axis 950B) via a pair of second rotating elements 952B. In the depicted embodiment, the second axis 950B is substantially perpendicular to the first axis 950A. In various embodiments, the second rotating elements may include a variety of different components configured to allow the intermediate frame to rotate relative to the aerosol delivery device, including, for example, bearing elements, pins configured to rotate within corresponding pawls or holes, etc. In various embodiments, the second rotating elements may be the same as or different from the first rotating element. In the depicted embodiment, the reservoir 944 has a substantially hollow spherical shape; however, in other embodiments, other shapes are possible, including, for example, a substantially hollow cylindrical shape, a substantially hollow prismatic shape, a substantially hollow cubic shape, or any other shape configured to contain a liquid composition. Regardless of the shape of the reservoir, in various embodiments, the reservoir may be located in different positions within the housing of the aerosol delivery device.

[0122] In various embodiments, the rotational configuration of the reservoir 944 of the depicted embodiments facilitates contact between the liquid composition and the atomizing assembly 915, independent of the position of the aerosol delivery device. To facilitate contact between the liquid composition and the atomizing assembly 915 of the depicted embodiments, the bottom end of the reservoir 944 (e.g., the portion of the reservoir 944 near the atomizing assembly 915) is weighted relative to the top end. In various embodiments, the weighting of the reservoir can be implemented in a variety of different ways. For example, in some embodiments, the liquid composition itself provides sufficient weight to allow the reservoir to rotate relative to the aerosol delivery device. In other embodiments, the atomizing assembly provides sufficient weight to allow the reservoir to rotate relative to the aerosol delivery device. In other embodiments, weight may be added to the reservoir near the atomizing assembly to allow the reservoir to rotate relative to the aerosol delivery device. In other embodiments, the reservoir itself may be configured (e.g., by providing additional material near the atomizing assembly) to provide sufficient weight to allow the reservoir to rotate relative to the aerosol delivery device. In some embodiments, the reservoir may be configured to actively rotate relative to the aerosol delivery device. For example, in some embodiments, the reservoir may be actively rotated relative to the position of the aerosol delivery device using, for example, an electromagnetic device. Such embodiments may include reservoirs configured to rotate within another portion in the presence of hydraulic fluid (e.g., substantially spherical reservoirs configured to rotate within another substantially spherical portion).

[0123] exist Figure 11 Another embodiment of this disclosure is shown in the figure. Specifically, Figure 11 A side view schematic diagram is shown of a portion of a reservoir 1044 configured to hold a liquid composition (not shown) and an atomizing assembly 1015 configured to generate an aerosol from the liquid composition, according to another exemplary embodiment of this disclosure. In the depicted embodiment, the reservoir 1044 and the atomizing assembly 1015 are configured for use in conjunction with an aerosol delivery device. In the depicted embodiment, the atomizing assembly 1015 includes a vibrating mesh assembly comprising a piezoelectric disc or piezoelectric ring 1017, which is fixed to and substantially surrounds a mesh plate 1019. In various embodiments, electrical connections (not shown) connect the atomizing assembly 1015 to control components and / or a battery of the aerosol delivery device. In this way, the atomizing assembly 1015 of the depicted embodiment can be powered by a battery and / or control components to vibrate the mesh plate 1019 at a relatively high rate. The vibrations generated by the plate generate an aerosol from the contacting liquid composition. Further reference is made to the discussion of the vibrating mesh assembly components and variations described above.

[0124] In the depicted embodiment, the atomizing assembly 1015 further includes a perforated gate (perforation gate) 1062 positioned near the mesh 1019 between the liquid composition and the mesh 1019. In the depicted embodiment, the perforated gate 1062 is substantially parallel to the mesh 1019, such that a small chamber 1064 is defined between the mesh 1019 and the perforated gate 1062. In various embodiments, the perforated gate 1062 defines a plurality of openings 1066 configured to allow the liquid composition to pass through. In the depicted embodiment, the openings 1066 are configured to facilitate the entry of the liquid composition from the reservoir 1044 into the small chamber 1064 between the mesh 1019 and the perforated gate 1062.

[0125] As shown in the figure, each opening 1066 in the depicted embodiment has a truncated conical shape (see details), with the smaller end of the opening closest to the mesh plate 1019. In this way, the opening 1066 functions similarly to a one-way valve, allowing the liquid composition to enter the chamber 1064 in one direction through the perforated door 1062 and preventing the liquid composition from traveling in the opposite direction back through the perforated door 1062. It should be noted that in other embodiments, the openings may have any other construction and / or other shapes. For example, in other embodiments, multiple openings may have quadrilateral, pyramidal, or cylindrical shapes. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the perforated door 1062 may include one or more coating materials. For example, in the depicted embodiment, the side of the perforated door 1062 closest to the chamber 1064 includes a hydrophobic / oleophobic coating. Due to the construction of the reservoir 1044 and the atomizing assembly 1015, the depicted embodiment enables the aerosol delivery device to be used at various angles and orientations.

[0126] exist Figure 12 Another embodiment of this disclosure is shown in the figure. Specifically, Figure 12A side view schematic diagram is shown of a portion of a reservoir 1144 configured to hold a liquid composition (not shown) and an atomizing assembly 1115 configured to generate an aerosol from the liquid composition, according to another exemplary embodiment of this disclosure. In the depicted embodiment, the reservoir 1144 and the atomizing assembly 1115 are configured for use in conjunction with an aerosol delivery device. In the depicted embodiment, the atomizing assembly 1115 includes a vibrating mesh assembly comprising a piezoelectric disc or piezoelectric ring 1117, which is fixed to and substantially surrounds a mesh plate 1119. In various embodiments, electrical connections (not shown) connect the atomizing assembly 1115 to control components and / or a battery of the aerosol delivery device. In this way, the atomizing assembly 1115 of the depicted embodiment can be powered by a battery and / or control components to vibrate the mesh plate 1119 at a relatively high rate. The vibration generated by the plate causes the contacting liquid composition to generate an aerosol. Further reference is made to the discussion of the vibrating mesh assembly components and variations described above.

[0127] The depicted embodiments also include a liquid delivery element 1168, one end of which is positioned close to the mesh plate 1119. In the depicted embodiments, the liquid delivery element 1168 is located between the liquid composition in the reservoir 1144 and the mesh plate 1119. In some embodiments, the liquid delivery element may occupy a portion or substantially all of the reservoir. In various embodiments, the liquid delivery element may have one or more layers and may be made of a single material or multiple materials. In various embodiments, the liquid delivery element may be of any shape and may be a porous, semi-porous, or non-porous absorbent / adsorbent material. In other embodiments, a second liquid delivery element may be present between the first liquid delivery element and the liquid reservoir, the second liquid delivery element being configured to transfer liquid from the liquid reservoir to the first liquid delivery element. In this way, the first liquid delivery element may not be in direct contact with the liquid in the reservoir. In various embodiments, the second liquid delivery element may be made of the same or different material as the first liquid delivery element and may have the same or different shape as the first liquid delivery element.

[0128] For example, in some embodiments, the liquid delivery element may be formed of materials such as fibrous materials (e.g., organic cotton, cellulose acetate, regenerated cellulose fabric, glass fiber), silk, granules, porous ceramics (e.g., alumina, silica, zirconium oxide, SiC, SiN, AlN, etc.), porous metals, porous carbon, graphite, porous glass, sintered glass beads, sintered ceramic beads, porous polymers, or the like. In some embodiments, the liquid delivery element may also be any material comprising an open pore network (i.e., multiple interconnected pores that allow fluid to flow through the element from one pore to another in multiple directions). The pores may be nanopores, micropores, macropores, or combinations thereof. As further discussed herein, some embodiments of this disclosure may specifically relate to the use of non-fibrous delivery elements. Thus, fibrous delivery elements are explicitly excluded. Alternatively, combinations of fibrous and non-fibrous delivery elements may be employed. In some embodiments, the liquid delivery element may be a substantially solid, non-porous material, such as a polymer or a dense ceramic or metal, configured to guide liquid through pores or slots without relying on wicking by capillary action. This solid substrate can be used in conjunction with a porous absorbent pad. The absorbent pad can be formed from silica-based fibers, organic cotton, rayon fibers, cellulose acetate, regenerated cellulose fabric, highly porous ceramics, or metal mesh, etc. Representative types of substrates, reservoirs, or other components for supporting aerosol precursors are described in U.S. Patent No. 8,528,569 to Newton; U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0261487 to Chapman et al.; U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 00597800 to Davis et al.; and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0216232 to Bless et al.; the full text of these documents is incorporated herein by reference. Furthermore, various wicking materials, and the construction and operation of wicking materials in specific types of electronic cigarettes, are described in U.S. Patent No. 8,910,640 to Sears et al.; the full text of this document is incorporated herein by reference. In some embodiments, the fluid delivery element may be formed partially or entirely from porous monomers such as porous ceramics, porous glass, etc. For example, exemplary monomeric materials applicable to embodiments of this disclosure are described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2017 / 0188626 by Davis et al. and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0123989 by LaMothe, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. In some embodiments, the porous monomer may be formed into a substantially solid wicking portion.

[0129] In various embodiments, one end of the liquid delivery element may be configured to be placed close to the mesh plate and positioned between the mesh plate and the liquid composition in the reservoir, such that the liquid delivery element acts as a secondary reservoir, absorbing or adsorbing liquid from the reservoir, thereby delivering at least a portion of the liquid composition to the mesh plate even when there is no more liquid in the reservoir. In this way, the liquid delivery element is configured to facilitate the delivery of the liquid composition to the atomizing assembly.

[0130] exist Figure 13 Another embodiment of this disclosure is shown in the figure. Specifically, Figure 13 A side view schematic diagram is shown of a portion of a reservoir 1244 configured to hold a liquid composition (not shown) and an atomizing assembly 1215 configured to generate an aerosol from the liquid composition, according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. In the depicted embodiment, the reservoir 1244 and the atomizing assembly 1215 are configured for use in conjunction with an aerosol delivery device. In the depicted embodiment, the atomizing assembly 1215 includes a vibrating mesh assembly comprising a piezoelectric disc or piezoelectric ring 1217, which is fixed to and substantially surrounds a mesh plate 1219. In various embodiments, electrical connections (not shown) connect the atomizing assembly 1215 to control components and / or a battery of the aerosol delivery device. In this way, the atomizing assembly 1215 of the depicted embodiment can be powered by a battery and / or control components to vibrate the mesh plate 1219 at a relatively high rate. Because at least a portion of the liquid composition is delivered to the mesh plate 1219, the vibration generated by the plate causes the contacting liquid composition to generate an aerosol. Please refer further to the discussion of the components and variations of the vibration net assembly above.

[0131] In the depicted embodiments, the atomizing assembly 1215 also includes a micropump assembly 1260. In various embodiments, the micropump assembly 1260 is configured to transfer a portion of the liquid composition from the reservoir 1244 to the mesh plate 1219. In some embodiments, the delivery of the liquid composition to the mesh plate 1219 can be automated. In other embodiments, the delivery of the liquid composition to the mesh plate 1219 can be performed as needed, such as via control from a control unit. In some embodiments, the micropump assembly can apply droplets of the liquid composition directly to the mesh plate. In other embodiments, the micropump assembly can spray (e.g., via one or more nozzles) droplets of the liquid composition onto the mesh plate. In other embodiments, the micropump assembly can apply or spray droplets of the liquid composition onto a liquid delivery element that can deliver at least a portion of the liquid composition to the mesh plate, as referenced above. Figure 12As described. In various embodiments, a micropump assembly may include any mechanical or non-mechanical pump configured to transfer liquid from one location to another. Non-limiting examples of micropump assemblies include dispensing mechanisms (e.g., shape memory dispensing mechanisms), diaphragm devices, peristaltic devices, or lab-on-a-chip or lab-on-a-disk microfluidic systems, etc. Such devices may be configured to automatically transfer liquid or may be initially transferred due to one or more stimuli, such as manual force or pressure. Some examples of shape memory dispensing mechanisms are described in U.S. Patent No. 10,080,388 to Sebastian et al., the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0132] exist Figure 14 Another embodiment of this disclosure is shown in the figure. Specifically, Figure 14 A side view schematic diagram is shown of a portion of a reservoir 1344 configured to hold a liquid composition (not shown) and an atomizing assembly 1315 configured to generate an aerosol from the liquid composition, according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. In the depicted embodiment, the reservoir 1344 and the atomizing assembly 1315 are configured for use in conjunction with an aerosol delivery device. In the depicted embodiment, the atomizing assembly 1315 includes a vibrating mesh assembly comprising a piezoelectric disc or piezoelectric ring 1317, which is fixed to and substantially surrounds a mesh plate 1319. In various embodiments, electrical connections (not shown) connect the atomizing assembly 1315 to control components and / or a battery of the aerosol delivery device. In this way, the atomizing assembly 1315 of the depicted embodiment can be powered by a battery and / or control components to vibrate the mesh plate 1319 at a relatively high rate. Because at least a portion of the liquid composition is delivered to the mesh plate 1319, the vibration generated by the plate generates an aerosol from the contacting liquid composition. Please refer further to the discussion of the components and variations of the vibration net assembly above.

[0133] In the depicted embodiments, the atomizing assembly 1315 also includes a micro-blower assembly 1362. In various embodiments, the micro-blower assembly 1362 is configured to propel a portion of the liquid composition (e.g., in the form of small particles or a small stream) from the reservoir 1344 onto the surface of the mesh plate 1319. In some embodiments, the micro-blower assembly may include a micro-compressor. In some embodiments, the micro-blower assembly may utilize a pressurized gas (e.g., air, carbon dioxide (CO2), nitrogen (N2), etc.) to aid in propulsion of the liquid composition onto the surface of the mesh plate. In some embodiments, the micro-blower assembly may include one or more nozzles.

[0134] exist Figure 15A and 15BOther embodiments of this disclosure are illustrated below. Specifically, Figure 15A and 15B A side view schematic diagram is shown of reservoirs 1444A, 1444B configured to hold portions of liquid compositions 1445A, 1445B, and atomizing assemblies 1415A, 1415B configured to generate aerosols from the liquid compositions, according to other exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. In the depicted embodiments, the reservoirs 1444A, 1444B and atomizing assemblies 1415A, 1415B are configured for use in conjunction with an aerosol delivery device. In the depicted embodiments, atomizing assemblies 1415A, 1415B include a vibrating mesh assembly comprising piezoelectric discs or piezoelectric rings 1417A, 1417B, which are fixed to and substantially surround mesh plates 1419A, 1419B. In various embodiments, electrical connections (not shown) connect atomizing assemblies 1415A, 1415B to control components and / or a battery of the aerosol delivery device. In this way, the atomizing components 1415A and 1415B of the depicted embodiments can be powered by batteries and / or control components to vibrate the corresponding mesh plates 1419A and 1419B at a relatively high rate. The vibration generated by the plates causes the contacting liquid composition to generate the corresponding aerosol. Further reference is made to the discussion of the vibrating mesh component parts and variations described above.

[0135] In the depicted embodiment, reservoirs 1444A and 1444B comprise substantially U-shaped tubes and include corresponding first reservoir sections 1447A and 1447B, second reservoir sections 1449A and 1449B, and third reservoir sections 1451A and 1451B. In the depicted embodiment, the first reservoir sections 1447A and 1447B and the third reservoir sections 1451A and 1451B are substantially straight, and the second reservoir sections 1449A and 1449B connecting the first reservoir sections 1447A and 1447B to the third reservoir sections 1451A and 1451B are substantially curved. Figure 15A In the depicted embodiment, the diameters of the first memory section 1447A, the second memory section 1449A, and the third memory section 1451A are substantially the same. However, in other embodiments, the diameters may be different. For example, in... Figure 15B In the embodiment depicted, the diameters of the second memory section 1449B and the third memory section 1451B are substantially the same and smaller than the diameter of the first memory section 1447B.

[0136] In each of the depicted embodiments, reservoirs 1444A, 1444B include corresponding plumb bobs 1464A, 1464B that apply a downward force to the liquid composition in the first reservoir sections 1447A, 1447B. In various embodiments, the plumb bobs may include any means configured to increase the pressure on the liquid composition, including, for example, weighted discs or balls. In this way, contact between the liquid composition and the mesh plates 1419A, 1419B is maintained even when the level of the liquid composition in the reservoirs 1444A, 1444B decreases.

[0137] exist Figure 16 Another embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated in FIG15. Specifically, FIG15 shows a side view schematic diagram of a reservoir 1544 configured to hold a portion of a liquid composition 1545 and an atomizing assembly 1515 configured to generate an aerosol from the liquid composition, according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. In the depicted embodiment, the reservoir 1544 and the atomizing assembly 1515 are configured for use in conjunction with an aerosol delivery device such as those described above. In the depicted embodiment, the atomizing assembly 1515 includes a vibrating mesh assembly comprising a piezoelectric disc or piezoelectric ring 1517, which is fixed to and substantially surrounds a mesh plate 1519. In various embodiments, electrical connections (not shown) connect the atomizing assembly 1515 to a control component and / or a battery of an aerosol delivery device. In this way, the atomizing assembly 1515 of the depicted embodiment can be powered by a battery and / or a control component to vibrate the mesh plate 1519 at a relatively high rate. The vibration generated by the plate causes the contacting liquid composition to generate an aerosol. Please refer further to the discussion of the components and variations of the vibration net assembly above.

[0138] In the depicted embodiment, the reservoir 1544 comprises a substantially U-shaped tube and includes a first reservoir section 1547, a second reservoir section 1549, and a third reservoir section 1551. In the depicted embodiment, the first reservoir section 1547 and the third reservoir section 1551 are substantially straight, and the second reservoir section 1519 connecting the first reservoir section 1547 to the third reservoir section 1551 is substantially curved. Figure 16 In the depicted embodiment, the diameters of the first memory segment 1547, the second memory segment 1549, and the third memory segment 1551 are substantially the same. However, in other embodiments, the diameters may be different.

[0139] In the depicted embodiment, the reservoir 1544 includes a plumb bob 1564 that applies a downward force to the liquid composition in the first reservoir section 1547. In various embodiments, the plumb bob may include any device configured to increase pressure on the liquid composition, including, for example, a weighted disc or ball. In this way, contact between the liquid composition and the mesh plate 1519 is maintained even when the level of the liquid composition in the reservoir 1544 decreases. Further, in the depicted embodiment, the U-shaped reservoir is angled relative to the longitudinal axis 1550 of the aerosol delivery device body 1505, such that contact between the liquid composition and the mesh plate 1519 is maintained. Additionally, in the depicted embodiment, the nozzle portion 1509 (which defines the opening 1528 through which the aerosol exits) is positioned on one side of the aerosol delivery device body 1505, thereby facilitating use of the device in a specific orientation.

[0140] exist Figure 17 Another embodiment of this disclosure is shown in the figure. Specifically, Figure 17 A side view schematic diagram is shown of a portion of a reservoir 1644 configured to hold a liquid composition 1645 and an atomizing assembly 1615 configured to generate an aerosol from the liquid composition, according to another exemplary embodiment of this disclosure. In the depicted embodiment, the reservoir 1644 and the atomizing assembly 1615 are configured for use in conjunction with an aerosol delivery device. In the depicted embodiment, the atomizing assembly 1615 includes a vibrating mesh assembly comprising a piezoelectric disc or piezoelectric ring 1617, which is fixed to and substantially surrounds a mesh plate 1619. In various embodiments, electrical connections (not shown) connect the atomizing assembly 1615 to control components and / or a battery of the aerosol delivery device. In this way, the atomizing assembly 1615 of the depicted embodiment can be powered by a battery and / or control components to vibrate the mesh plate 1619 at a relatively high rate. The vibrations generated by the plate generate an aerosol from the contacting liquid composition. Further reference is made to the discussion of the vibrating mesh assembly components and variations described above.

[0141] In the depicted embodiment, the reservoir 1644 comprises a substantially U-shaped tube and includes a first reservoir section 1647, a second reservoir section 1649, and a third reservoir section 1651. In the depicted embodiment, the first reservoir section 1647 and the third reservoir section 1651 are substantially straight, and the second reservoir section 1619 connecting the first reservoir section 1647 to the third reservoir section 1651 is substantially curved. Figure 17 In the depicted embodiment, the diameters of the first memory segment 1647, the second memory segment 1649, and the third memory segment 1651 are substantially the same. However, in other embodiments, the diameters may be different.

[0142] In the depicted embodiment, reservoir 1644 includes a plumb bob 1664 that applies a downward force to the liquid composition in the first reservoir section 1647. As described above, in various embodiments, the plumb bob may include any means configured to increase pressure on the liquid composition. In some embodiments, such as the depicted embodiment, the plumb bob may also include a movable member configured to actively apply pressure to the liquid composition in the reservoir. In various embodiments, the movable member may be any means configured to actively apply force to the liquid composition in the reservoir. In the depicted embodiment, the movable member includes a spring 1665 that applies additional force to the plumb bob 1664. In other embodiments, the movable member may include an electromechanical device, such as an actuator or piston, and in some embodiments, the electromechanical device may include feedback control. In various embodiments, the movable member may be selected based on the properties of the liquid composition (e.g., viscosity, density, etc.) and / or the size of the mesh and / or the vibration frequency of the vibrating component. It should also be noted that in other embodiments, the reservoir having the movable member may be substantially cylindrical in shape.

[0143] While in some embodiments of this disclosure the cartridge and control unit are typically provided together as a complete aerosol delivery device, these components may also be provided separately. For example, this disclosure also covers disposable units for use with reusable units. In specific embodiments, such a disposable unit (which may be a cartridge as shown in the figures) may be configured to work in conjunction with a reusable unit (which may be a control unit as shown in the figures). In other configurations, the cartridge may include a reusable unit and the control unit may include a disposable unit.

[0144] Although some of the accompanying figures described herein show the barrel and control unit in a working relationship, it should be understood that the barrel and control unit can exist as separate components. Therefore, any discussion herein regarding combined components should also be understood to apply to the control unit and barrel as separate and independent components.

[0145] On the other hand, this disclosure may relate to kits providing a variety of components as described herein. For example, a kit may include a control unit having one or more cartridges. A kit may also include a control unit having one or more charging components. A kit may also include a control unit having one or more batteries. A kit may also include a control unit having one or more cartridges and one or more charging components and / or one or more batteries. In another embodiment, a kit may include multiple cartridges. A kit may also include multiple cartridges and one or more batteries and / or one or more charging components. In the above embodiments, the cartridges or control unit may be provided with a heating element included therein. The kit of the present invention may also include a housing (or other packaging, carrying, or storage component) accommodating one or more additional kit components. The housing may be a reusable hard or soft container. Further, the housing may simply be a box or other packaging structure.

[0146] Many modifications and other embodiments of this disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains, and they have the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing description and the associated drawings. Therefore, it should be understood that the invention is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed, and various modifications and other embodiments are included within the scope of the appended claims. Although specific terms are used herein, they are used in a general and descriptive sense and not for limiting purposes.

Claims

1. An aerosol delivery device, comprising: A housing, the housing including a power supply and control components; A reservoir configured to contain a liquid composition; as well as Atomizing component configured to evaporate a liquid composition to generate an aerosol. The atomizing assembly includes a vibrating assembly, the vibrating assembly includes a mesh plate, and the reservoir is configured to rotate relative to the position of the aerosol delivery device to facilitate contact between the liquid composition and the atomizing assembly.

2. The aerosol delivery device as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The reservoir is configured to rotate freely relative to the housing.

3. The aerosol delivery device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The reservoir is configured to rotate relative to the housing via active control.

4. The aerosol delivery device as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The mesh panel is substantially flat.

5. The aerosol delivery device as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, At least a portion of the mesh plate protrudes relative to the reservoir.

6. The aerosol delivery device as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The vibration assembly also includes a piezoelectric element fixed to the mesh plate and substantially surrounding the mesh plate.

7. The aerosol delivery device as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The vibration component is configured to be positioned close to the enclosed portion of the reservoir.

8. The aerosol delivery device as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The vibration component is positioned close to the opening portion of the reservoir.

9. The aerosol delivery device as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The reservoir is substantially spherical.

10. The aerosol delivery device as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The reservoir is substantially cylindrical.

11. The aerosol delivery device as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The reservoir is configured to rotate about a single axis.

12. The aerosol delivery device as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes an intermediate frame configured to connect the reservoir to the housing, wherein the intermediate frame is configured to rotate relative to the housing about a first axis, wherein the reservoir is configured to rotate relative to the intermediate frame about a second axis, and wherein the first axis and the second axis are substantially perpendicular.

13. An aerosol delivery device, comprising: A housing, the housing including a power supply and control components; A reservoir configured to contain a liquid composition; as well as Atomizing component configured to evaporate a liquid composition to generate an aerosol. The atomizing assembly includes a vibrating assembly and a perforated gate having a plurality of openings therein. The vibrating assembly includes a mesh plate, and the perforated gate is positioned close to the mesh plate and between the liquid composition and the mesh plate.

14. The aerosol delivery device as claimed in claim 13, characterized in that, The perforated door is substantially parallel to the mesh panel.

15. The aerosol delivery device as claimed in claim 13, characterized in that, It also includes a cavity defined between the mesh panel and the perforated door.

16. The aerosol delivery device as claimed in claim 13, characterized in that, The perforated door has multiple openings with a truncated conical shape.

17. The aerosol delivery device as claimed in claim 16, characterized in that, The small ends of the multiple openings are positioned closest to the mesh plate.

18. The aerosol delivery device as claimed in claim 13, characterized in that, At least a portion of the surface of the perforated door is coated with a coating.

19. The aerosol delivery device as claimed in claim 18, characterized in that, The coating includes a hydrophobic / oleophobic coating.

20. The aerosol delivery device as claimed in claim 13, characterized in that, The vibration assembly also includes a piezoelectric element fixed to the mesh plate and substantially surrounding the mesh plate.

21. The aerosol delivery device as claimed in claim 13, characterized in that, The mesh panel is substantially flat.

22. The aerosol delivery device as claimed in claim 13, characterized in that, At least a portion of the mesh plate protrudes relative to the reservoir.

23. An aerosol delivery device, comprising: A housing, the housing including a power supply and control components; A reservoir configured to contain a liquid composition; as well as Atomizing component configured to evaporate a liquid composition to generate an aerosol. The atomizing assembly includes a vibration assembly and a blower assembly. The vibration assembly includes a mesh plate, and the blower assembly is configured to push a portion of the liquid composition from the reservoir to the mesh plate.

24. The aerosol delivery device as claimed in claim 23, characterized in that, The blower assembly includes a compressor.

25. The aerosol delivery device as claimed in claim 23, characterized in that, The blower assembly includes one or more nozzles.

26. The aerosol delivery device as claimed in claim 23, characterized in that, The blower assembly uses pressurized gas to push the liquid composition onto the mesh plate.

27. The aerosol delivery device as claimed in claim 26, characterized in that, The pressurized gas includes at least one of air, carbon dioxide (CO2), and nitrogen (N2).

28. The aerosol delivery device as claimed in claim 23, characterized in that, The vibration assembly also includes a piezoelectric element fixed to the mesh plate and substantially surrounding the mesh plate.

29. The aerosol delivery device as claimed in claim 23, characterized in that, The mesh panel is substantially flat.

30. The aerosol delivery device as claimed in claim 23, characterized in that, At least a portion of the mesh plate protrudes relative to the reservoir.

31. An aerosol delivery device, comprising: A housing, the housing including a power supply and control components; A reservoir configured to contain a liquid composition; as well as Atomizing component configured to evaporate a liquid composition to generate an aerosol. The atomizing component includes a vibration component, the vibration component includes a mesh plate, and the reservoir includes a U-shaped tube, the U-shaped tube includes a first reservoir section, a second reservoir section and a third reservoir section, wherein the third reservoir section is positioned close to the atomizing component, and wherein the second reservoir section connects the first reservoir section to the third reservoir section.

32. The aerosol delivery device as claimed in claim 31, characterized in that, The first storage segment has a larger diameter than the second storage segment and the third storage segment.

33. The aerosol delivery device of claim 31, further comprising a plumb bob configured to apply a downward force on the liquid composition in the first reservoir section.

34. The aerosol delivery device as claimed in claim 33, characterized in that, The plumb bob includes at least one of a counterweight plate and a counterweight ball.

35. The aerosol delivery device as claimed in claim 33, characterized in that, The plumb bob also includes a movable part configured to apply a downward force to the plumb bob.

36. The aerosol delivery device as claimed in claim 33, characterized in that, The reservoir is at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol delivery device.

37. The aerosol delivery device as claimed in claim 31, characterized in that, The nozzle portion is positioned on one side of the body of the aerosol delivery device to facilitate use of the device in a variety of specific orientations.

38. The aerosol delivery device as claimed in claim 31, characterized in that, The vibration assembly also includes a piezoelectric element fixed to the mesh plate and substantially surrounding the mesh plate.

39. The aerosol delivery device as claimed in claim 31, characterized in that, The mesh panel is substantially flat.

40. The aerosol delivery device as claimed in claim 31, characterized in that, At least a portion of the mesh plate protrudes relative to the reservoir.

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