Aerosol-generating device with ultrasonic nebulizer

Abstract

The present invention relates to an aerosol-generating device comprising a cavity for receiving an aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-generating device may also include a heating element configured to heat an aerosol-forming substrate received in the cavity for generating an inhalable aerosol. The aerosol-generating device may also include an ultrasonic nebulizer. The ultrasonic nebulizer may be configured to nebulize excess water in the aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-generating device may also include a controller. The controller may be configured to control a heating operation of the heating element. The controller may be configured to control excess water removal operation of the ultrasonic nebulizer. The controller may be configured to perform an excess water removal operation of the ultrasonic nebulizer prior to a heating operation of the heating element. The invention also relates to a method of removing excess water from an aerosol-forming substrate in an aerosol-generating device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an aerosol generating apparatus. It also relates to a method for removing excess water from an aerosol forming matrix within the aerosol generating apparatus. Background Technology

[0002] An aerosol generating apparatus for generating inhalable vapors is known. Such an apparatus heats an aerosol-forming matrix to a temperature that causes one or more components of the aerosol-forming matrix to volatilize without burning the aerosol-forming matrix. The aerosol-forming matrix can be provided as part of an aerosol-generating article. The aerosol-generating article can have a strip shape for inserting the aerosol-generating article into a cavity (such as a heating chamber) of the aerosol-generating apparatus. Heating elements can be arranged in or around the heating chamber to heat the aerosol-forming matrix once the aerosol-generating article is inserted into the heating chamber of the aerosol-generating apparatus. In humid climates, undesirable thermal aerosol effects may occur during the consumer's first inhalation. More specifically, the aerosol-forming matrix of the aerosol-generating article may include excess water due to humid conditions. This excess water can be vaporized by the heating elements of the aerosol-generating apparatus before the user's first inhalation. During the first inhalation, the user may inhale this vaporized excess water. This can produce undesirable thermal aerosol effects during the first inhalation. Summary of the Invention

[0003] A device for reducing or preventing thermal aerosol generation is desired. A method for reducing or preventing thermal aerosol effects is also desired.

[0004] According to embodiments of the present invention, an aerosol generating apparatus may be provided, comprising a cavity for receiving an aerosol forming matrix. The aerosol generating apparatus may further include a heating element configured to heat the aerosol forming matrix received in the cavity for generating an inhalable aerosol. The aerosol generating apparatus may further include an ultrasonic nebulizer. The ultrasonic nebulizer may be configured to atomize excess water in the aerosol forming matrix. The aerosol generating apparatus may further include a controller. The controller may be configured to control the heating operation of the heating element. The controller may be configured to control the excess water removal operation of the ultrasonic nebulizer. The controller may be configured to perform the excess water removal operation of the ultrasonic nebulizer prior to the heating operation of the heating element.

[0005] According to embodiments of the present invention, an aerosol generating apparatus is provided, comprising a cavity for receiving an aerosol forming matrix. The aerosol generating apparatus further comprises a heating element configured to heat the aerosol forming matrix received in the cavity for generating an inhalable aerosol. The aerosol generating apparatus further comprises an ultrasonic atomizer. The ultrasonic atomizer is configured to atomize excess water in the aerosol forming matrix. The aerosol generating apparatus further comprises a controller. The controller is configured to control the heating operation of the heating element. The controller is configured to control the excess water removal operation of the ultrasonic atomizer. The controller is configured to perform the excess water removal operation of the ultrasonic atomizer prior to the heating operation of the heating element.

[0006] An ultrasonic atomizer is provided, and the ultrasonic manipulator is operated by a controller during the excess water removal operation, enabling the removal of excess water from the aerosol forming matrix. Removing excess water from the aerosol forming matrix prevents undesirable thermal aerosol effects in hot or humid climates. Performing the excess water removal operation before the heating element's heating operation removes excess water before the user experience. In particular, the aerosol forming matrix can have a relatively high moisture content in humid / hot environments. This relatively high moisture content can cause a relatively large amount of this moisture to vaporize during the preheating phase of the aerosol generating device. Due to the inhalation of a relatively large amount of vaporized water, the user's first inhalation may be unpleasantly affected. This can be referred to as the thermal aerosol effect.

[0007] The excess water removal operation is preferably performed during the preheating mode of the aerosol generation device. In any case, the excess water removal operation is preferably performed before the regular use of the aerosol generation device. The regular use process may begin with a heating operation, i.e., the controller initiates heating of the heating element to heat the aerosol forming matrix, thereby vaporizing the aerosol forming matrix to generate aerosols.

[0008] An ultrasonic atomizer atomizes excess water, meaning it is configured to vaporize water contained in the aerosol-forming matrix. This is achieved by subjecting the water in the aerosol-forming matrix to ultrasonic vibrations.

[0009] An ultrasonic atomizer may include a piezoelectric element, preferably configured as a piezoelectric element. The piezoelectric element may be configured to generate ultrasonic vibrations.

[0010] Ultrasonic atomizers can be configured to generate piezoelectric vibrations at ambient temperature.

[0011] The piezoelectric element may include multiple micropores, preferably perforated to have multiple micropores. The micropores can generate the capillary effect of an ultrasonic atomizer, thereby moving excess water in the aerosol-forming matrix toward the piezoelectric element for vaporization.

[0012] An ultrasonic atomizer may include an ultrasonic element, preferably configured as such. The ultrasonic element may be configured to generate ultrasonic vibrations.

[0013] An ultrasonic atomizer can be configured to generate ultrasonic waves.

[0014] Ultrasonic atomizers can be configured to dehumidify the aerosol-forming matrix during excess water removal operations.

[0015] Ultrasonic atomizers can be configured to operate at ambient temperature. In other words, ultrasonic atomizers can form a matrix of aerosols without heating them.

[0016] Ultrasonic atomizers can be disc-shaped or cylindrical.

[0017] When the ultrasonic atomizer is disc-shaped, it is preferably arranged adjacent to or forming the base of the cavity of the aerosol generating device. When the aerosol generating article, including the aerosol forming matrix, is inserted into the cavity of the aerosol generating device, the distal end face of the aerosol generating article can be arranged adjacent to or in direct contact with the large surface of the ultrasonic atomizer. The ultrasonic vibrations generated by the ultrasonic atomizer can then be optimally transmitted to the aerosol forming matrix, allowing the water contained in the aerosol forming matrix to be atomized by the ultrasonic atomizer. The outer diameter of the disc-shaped ultrasonic atomizer can correspond to the outer diameter of the aerosol generating article to be received in the cavity of the aerosol generating device.

[0018] When the ultrasonic atomizer is cylindrical, it is preferably arranged at least partially, and preferably completely, around the cavity of the aerosol-generating article. Alternatively, the ultrasonic atomizer may form the sidewall of the cavity of the aerosol-generating device in this case. When the aerosol-generating article containing the aerosol-forming matrix is ​​inserted into the cavity of the aerosol-generating device, the outer periphery of the aerosol-generating article is closed or in direct contact with the inner sidewall of the ultrasonic atomizer. The ultrasonic vibrations generated by the ultrasonic atomizer can then be optimally transmitted to the aerosol-forming matrix of the aerosol-generating article, thereby atomizing the water contained in the aerosol-forming matrix. The inner diameter of the tubular ultrasonic atomizer may correspond to the outer diameter of the aerosol-generating article to be received in the cavity of the aerosol-generating device.

[0019] According to one embodiment, a disc-shaped ultrasonic atomizer may be arranged adjacent to or forming the base of the cavity, while another cylindrical atomizer may be arranged to at least partially surround or form the sidewall of the cavity of the aerosol generating device. Providing two separate atomizers can improve the atomization of excess water in the aerosol generating matrix when the aerosol generating article comprising the aerosol generating matrix is ​​inserted into the cavity.

[0020] An ultrasonic nebulizer can be arranged to at least partially surround the cavity. An ultrasonic nebulizer can be arranged to completely surround the cavity. An ultrasonic nebulizer can be arranged to at least partially form the sidewall of the cavity.

[0021] Ultrasonic atomizers can be tubular or annular.

[0022] An ultrasonic nebulizer can be positioned at the distal end of an adjacent cavity. An ultrasonic nebulizer can be positioned at the base of a cavity. An ultrasonic nebulizer can form the base of a cavity.

[0023] The ultrasonic atomizer can be fluid-permeable. Providing a fluid-permeable ultrasonic atomizer allows it to be arranged within the airflow channel of the aerosol generating device. This can be particularly advantageous in embodiments where the ultrasonic atomizer is located at or forming the base of a cavity, as the airflow channel can be arranged such that ambient air can be drawn into the cavity at its base. In this case, air can be drawn through the ultrasonic atomizer.

[0024] An ultrasonic nebulizer may include a perforated mesh disk. The perforated mesh disk may be fluid-permeable. The perforated mesh disk may be disposed at the base of a cavity or forming the base of a cavity. The perforated mesh disk may be disposed within the airflow channel of an aerosol generating device. The perforated mesh disk may be arranged to span the airflow channel of the aerosol generating device. The perforated mesh disk may generate capillary action due to the gaps in the mesh, thereby drawing excess water from the aerosol forming matrix toward the ultrasonic nebulizer for vaporization.

[0025] Ultrasonic atomizers can be configured as artificial fog generators or similar to artificial fog generators.

[0026] The aerosol generating device may also include an airflow channel upstream of and fluidly connected to the cavity. As described above, the ultrasonic nebulizer may be arranged in or across the airflow channel.

[0027] The aerosol generating device may include an air inlet fluidly connected to an airflow channel. Ambient air can be drawn through the air inlet and further drawn into the chamber through the airflow channel. Subsequently, the vaporized aerosol forming matrix can be entrained in the airflow passing through the chamber and then inhaled by the user as an inhalable aerosol.

[0028] An ultrasonic atomizer can be arranged to guide excess atomized water from the aerosol-forming matrix into the upstream airflow channel.

[0029] This reduces or prevents the thermal aerosol effect because the hot air is not immediately drawn into the user's mouth during the first suction; instead, it is first drawn through the aerosol-forming matrix inserted into the cavity. The vaporized air is cooled during its passage through the upstream airflow channel and the aerosol-forming matrix to prevent undesirable thermal aerosol effects. Furthermore, vaporizing excess water into the upstream airflow channel using an ultrasonic atomizer means that this water is not heated during the heating operation. Therefore, users inhaling this water do not experience the thermal aerosol effect. This can even be beneficial for cooling the aerosol during the first suction, where the atomized cooling water in the upstream airflow channel can be inhaled along with the vaporized aerosol-forming matrix vaporized by the heating element during the heating operation.

[0030] This can improve the fluid permeability of the ultrasonic atomizer, allowing excess atomized water to move into the upstream airflow channel after being atomized by the ultrasonic atomizer. In other words, atomized water can move into the upstream airflow channel through the ultrasonic atomizer. This is particularly preferred for embodiments where the ultrasonic atomizer is located at or forms the base of the cavity.

[0031] An ultrasonic atomizer may include a central orifice along the longitudinal central axis of the cavity.

[0032] A central orifice allows airflow through the ultrasonic atomizer. This can be particularly advantageous if the ultrasonic atomizer is located at the base of the cavity or forming the base of the cavity. Providing a central orifice ensures that the ultrasonic atomizer does not affect, or only negligibly affects, the suction resistance of the aerosol generation device when drawing ambient air into the cavity.

[0033] An ultrasonic nebulizer may include multiple perforations parallel to the longitudinal central axis of the cavity.

[0034] Perforations allow airflow through the ultrasonic atomizer. This can be particularly advantageous if the ultrasonic atomizer is located at the base of the cavity or forms the base of the cavity. Providing perforations ensures that the ultrasonic atomizer does not affect, or only negligibly affects, the suction resistance of the aerosol generation device when drawing ambient air into the cavity.

[0035] The ultrasonic nebulizer can be arranged to contact the aerosol-forming matrix when it is received in the cavity. The ultrasonic nebulizer can be arranged to contact the distal surface of the aerosol-forming matrix.

[0036] As used herein, the terms “proximal,” “distal,” “upstream,” and “downstream” are used to describe the relative position of a component or part of a component of an aerosol generating device with respect to the direction in which it is drawn by a user during use of the aerosol generating device.

[0037] An aerosol generating device may include an orifice through which aerosols exit the aerosol generating device and are delivered to a user during use. The orifice may also be referred to as a proximal end. During use, the user inhales through the proximal end or orifice of the aerosol generating device to inhale the aerosol generated by the aerosol generating device. Alternatively, the user may inhale directly through an aerosol-generating article inserted into an opening at the proximal end of the aerosol generating device. The opening at the proximal end may be an opening of a cavity. The cavity may be configured to receive the aerosol-generating article. The aerosol generating device includes a distal end opposite the proximal end or orifice. The proximal end or orifice of the aerosol generating device may also be referred to as a downstream end, and the distal end of the aerosol generating device may also be referred to as an upstream end. Components or portions of components of the aerosol generating device may be described as being upstream or downstream of each other based on their relative position between the proximal end, downstream end, or orifice of the aerosol generating device and the distal end or upstream end.

[0038] As used herein, an "aerosol generating device" relates to an apparatus that interacts with an aerosol-forming matrix to generate an aerosol. The aerosol-forming matrix may be part of an aerosol-generating article, such as a smoking article. The aerosol generating device may be a smoking device that interacts with the aerosol-forming matrix of the aerosol-generating article to generate an aerosol that can be directly inhaled into the user's lungs through the user's mouth. The aerosol generating device may be a retainer. The device may be an electrically heated smoking device. The aerosol generating device may include a housing, a circuit system, a power supply, a heating chamber, and a heating element.

[0039] As used herein with reference to the invention, the term "smoking" in relation to apparatus, articles, systems, matrix, or otherwise does not refer to conventional smoking in which the aerosol-forming matrix is ​​completely or at least partially burned. The aerosol-generating apparatus of the present invention is arranged to heat the aerosol-forming matrix to a temperature below the combustion temperature of the aerosol-forming matrix but at or above the temperature at which one or more volatile compounds of the aerosol-forming matrix are released to form an inhalable aerosol.

[0040] The aerosol generating apparatus may include a circuit system. The circuit system may include a microprocessor, which may be a programmable microprocessor. The microprocessor may be part of a controller. The circuit system may include additional electronic components. The circuit system may be configured to regulate the power supply to a heating element. The power supply to the heating element may occur during heating operation. Power may be continuously supplied to the heating element after the aerosol generating apparatus is activated, or it may be supplied intermittently, such as based on puff-by-puff suction. Power may be supplied to the heating element in the form of current pulses. The circuit system may be configured to monitor the resistance of the heating element and preferably control the power supply to the heating element based on the resistance of the heating element.

[0041] The aerosol generating device may include a power source, typically a battery, within the body of the device. In one embodiment, the power source is a lithium-ion battery. Alternatively, the power source may be a nickel-metal hydride battery, a nickel-cadmium battery, or a lithium-based battery (e.g., a lithium-cobalt battery, a lithium-iron-phosphate battery, a lithium titanate battery, or a lithium-polymer battery). Alternatively, the power source may be another form of charge storage device, such as a capacitor. The power source may require recharging and may have a capacity sufficient to store enough energy for one or more uses; for example, the power source may have sufficient capacity to continuously generate aerosols for a period of approximately six minutes or multiples of six minutes. In another instance, the power source may have sufficient capacity to provide a predetermined number of discontinuous activations of the suction or heating element.

[0042] The cavity of the aerosol generating apparatus may have an open end into which the aerosol-generating article is inserted. The open end may be a proximal end. The cavity may have a closed end opposite the open end. The closed end may be the base of the cavity. The closed end may be closed except for providing air vents disposed in the base. The base of the cavity may be flat. The base of the cavity may be circular. The base of the cavity may be disposed upstream of the cavity. The open end may be disposed downstream of the cavity. The cavity may have an elongated extension. The cavity may have a longitudinal central axis. The longitudinal direction may be a direction extending along the longitudinal central axis between the open end and the closed end. The longitudinal central axis of the cavity may be parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generating apparatus.

[0043] The cavity can be configured as a heating chamber. The cavity can have a cylindrical shape. The cavity can have a hollow cylindrical shape. The cavity can have a shape corresponding to the shape of the aerosol-generating article to be received in the cavity. The cavity can have a circular cross-section. The cavity can have an elliptical or rectangular cross-section. The cavity can have an inner diameter corresponding to the outer diameter of the aerosol-generating article.

[0044] An airflow channel can extend through the cavity. Ambient air can be drawn into the aerosol generating device, enter the cavity, and be directed towards the user through the airflow channel. A mouthpiece can be positioned downstream of the cavity, or the user can directly inhale from the aerosol generating article. The airflow channel can extend through the mouthpiece.

[0045] In any aspect of this disclosure, the heating element may include a resistive material. Suitable resistive materials include, but are not limited to: semiconductors (such as doped ceramics), electrically “conductive” ceramics (such as, for example, molybdenum disilicide), carbon, graphite, metals, metal alloys, and composite materials made of ceramic and metallic materials. Such composite materials may include doped or undoped ceramics. Examples of suitable doped ceramics include doped silicon carbide. Examples of suitable metals include titanium, zirconium, tantalum, platinum, gold, and silver. Examples of suitable metal alloys include stainless steel, nickel-containing alloys, cobalt-containing alloys, chromium-containing alloys, aluminum-containing alloys, titanium-containing alloys, zirconium-containing alloys, hafnium-containing alloys, niobium-containing alloys, molybdenum-containing alloys, tantalum-containing alloys, tungsten-containing alloys, tin-containing alloys, gallium-containing alloys, manganese-containing alloys, gold-containing alloys, iron-containing alloys, and superalloys based on nickel, iron, cobalt, stainless steel, Timetal®, and iron-manganese-aluminum based alloys. In composite materials, the resistive material may optionally be embedded in, encapsulated in, or coated with an insulating material, or vice versa, depending on the energy transfer kinetics and desired external physicochemical properties.

[0046] As described, in any of the aspects of this disclosure, the heating element may be part of an aerosol generating apparatus. The aerosol generating apparatus may include an internal heating element, an external heating element, or both, wherein “internal” and “external” refer to the aerosol forming matrix. The internal heating element may take any suitable form. For example, the internal heating element may take the form of a heating blade. Alternatively, the internal heater may take the form of a sleeve or substrate with different conductive portions, or a resistance metal tube. Alternatively, the internal heating element may be one or more heating needles or rods extending through the center of the aerosol forming matrix. Other alternatives include heating wires or filaments, such as Ni-Cr (nickel-chromium), platinum, tungsten, or alloy wires, or heating plates. Optionally, the internal heating element may be deposited in or on a rigid carrier material. In one such embodiment, the resistance heating element may be formed using a metal having a defined relationship between temperature and resistivity. In such an exemplary apparatus, the metal may be formed as a rail on a suitable insulating material (such as a ceramic material) and then sandwiched in another insulating material (such as glass). Heaters formed in this way can be used to both heat and monitor the temperature of the heating element during operation.

[0047] The external heating element can take any suitable form. For example, it can take the form of one or more flexible heating foils on a dielectric substrate (such as polyimide). The flexible heating foil can be shaped to conform to the periphery of the matrix receiving cavity. Alternatively, the external heating element can take the form of one or more metal meshes, flexible printed circuit boards, molded interconnect devices (MIDs), ceramic heaters, flexible carbon fiber heaters, or can be formed on a suitable shaped substrate using coating techniques (such as plasma vapor deposition). The external heating element can also be formed using a metal with a defined relationship between temperature and resistivity. In such an exemplary device, the metal can be formed as a rail between two layers of suitable insulating material. An external heating element formed in this way can be used to both heat and monitor the temperature of the external heating element during operation.

[0048] As an alternative to resistance heating elements, heating elements can be configured as induction heating elements. Induction heating elements can include an induction coil and a sensor. Generally, the sensor is a material capable of generating heat when penetrated by an alternating magnetic field. When located in an alternating magnetic field, if the sensor is conductive, eddy currents are typically induced by the alternating magnetic field. If the sensor is magnetic, another effect that typically contributes to heating is often referred to as hysteresis loss. Hysteresis loss occurs primarily due to the movement of magnetic domain blocks within the sensor, as the magnetic orientation of these domain blocks aligns with the alternating magnetic field. Another effect contributing to hysteresis loss is when magnetic domains grow or shrink within the sensor. Typically, all these changes occurring in the sensor at the nanoscale or below are referred to as "hysteresis loss" because they generate heat within the sensor. Therefore, if the sensor is both magnetic and conductive, both hysteresis loss and eddy current generation contribute to heating the sensor. If the sensor is magnetic but non-conductive, hysteresis loss will be the only means of heating the sensor when penetrated by an alternating magnetic field. According to the invention, the sensor can be conductive or magnetic, or both. An alternating magnetic field generated by one or more induction coils heats the sensor, which then transfers the heat to the aerosol-forming matrix, causing aerosol formation. Heat transfer can be primarily via thermal conduction. This heat transfer is optimal if the sensor is in close thermal contact with the aerosol-forming matrix.

[0049] As used herein, the term "aerosol-generating article" refers to an article comprising an aerosol-forming matrix capable of releasing volatile compounds that can form aerosols. For example, an aerosol-generating article can be a smoking article that generates aerosols that can be directly inhaled into a user's lungs through the user's mouth. Aerosol-generating articles can be disposable.

[0050] As used herein, the term "aerosol forming matrix" refers to a matrix capable of releasing one or more volatile compounds that can form aerosols. Such volatile compounds can be released by heating the aerosol forming matrix. The aerosol forming matrix may suitably be part of an aerosol-generating article or a smoking article.

[0051] The aerosol forming matrix can be a solid aerosol forming matrix. It can contain both solid and liquid components. The aerosol forming matrix can contain tobacco-containing material that contains volatile tobacco flavor compounds released from the matrix upon heating. The aerosol forming matrix can also contain non-tobacco materials. Furthermore, the aerosol forming matrix can contain aerosol forming agents that promote the formation of dense and stable aerosols. Examples of suitable aerosol forming agents are glycerol and propylene glycol.

[0052] The aerosol-generating matrix preferably comprises: homogenized tobacco material, an aerosol forming agent, and water. Providing homogenized tobacco material can improve aerosol generation, nicotine content, and flavor distribution of aerosols generated during the heating of aerosol-generating articles. Specifically, the process of manufacturing homogenized tobacco involves grinding tobacco leaves, which more effectively achieves the release of nicotine and flavor upon heating.

[0053] The present invention also relates to a method for removing excess water from an aerosol forming matrix in an aerosol generating apparatus as described herein, wherein the method may include:

[0054] In the excess water removal operation of the ultrasonic atomizer, the ultrasonic waves of the atomizer are operated via the controller.

[0055] The heating element is then operated via the controller.

[0056] The present invention also relates to a method for removing excess water from an aerosol forming matrix in an aerosol generating apparatus as described herein, wherein the method comprises:

[0057] In the excess water removal operation of the ultrasonic atomizer, the ultrasonic waves of the atomizer are operated via the controller.

[0058] The heating element is then operated via the controller.

[0059] The following is a non-exhaustive list of non-limiting examples. Any one or more features of these examples may be combined with any one or more features of another example, embodiment, or aspect described herein.

[0060] Example 1. An aerosol generating device, comprising:

[0061] A cavity for receiving aerosols to form a matrix.

[0062] A heating element configured to heat the aerosol-forming matrix received in the cavity for generating an inhalable aerosol.

[0063] An ultrasonic atomizer, wherein the ultrasonic atomizer is configured to atomize excess water in the aerosol forming matrix, and

[0064] Controller

[0065] The controller is configured to control the heating operation of the heating element, the controller is configured to control the excess water removal operation of the ultrasonic atomizer, and the controller is configured to perform the excess water removal operation of the ultrasonic atomizer before the heating operation of the heating element.

[0066] Example 2. The aerosol generating apparatus according to Example 1, wherein the ultrasonic atomizer includes a piezoelectric element, preferably configured as a piezoelectric element.

[0067] Example 3. An aerosol generating apparatus according to any of the foregoing examples, wherein the ultrasonic atomizer includes an ultrasonic element, preferably configured as an ultrasonic element.

[0068] Example 4. An aerosol generating apparatus according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the ultrasonic atomizer is disc-shaped or cylindrical.

[0069] Example 5. An aerosol generating apparatus according to any of the foregoing examples, wherein the ultrasonic atomizer is arranged to at least partially surround the cavity.

[0070] Example 6. An aerosol generating apparatus according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the ultrasonic atomizer is arranged adjacent to the distal end of the cavity.

[0071] Example 7. An aerosol generating apparatus according to any of the foregoing examples, wherein the ultrasonic atomizer is fluid-permeable.

[0072] Example 8. An aerosol generating apparatus according to any of the foregoing examples, wherein the ultrasonic atomizer comprises a perforated mesh disk.

[0073] Example 9. An aerosol generating apparatus according to any of the foregoing examples, wherein the aerosol generating apparatus further includes an airflow channel upstream of the cavity and fluidly connected to the cavity.

[0074] Example 10. An aerosol generating apparatus according to Example 9, wherein the ultrasonic atomizer is arranged to guide atomized excess water from the aerosol forming matrix into an upstream airflow channel.

[0075] Example 11. An aerosol generating apparatus according to any of the foregoing examples, wherein the ultrasonic atomizer includes a central orifice along the longitudinal central axis of the cavity.

[0076] Example 12. An aerosol generating apparatus according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the ultrasonic atomizer includes a plurality of perforations parallel to the longitudinal central axis of the cavity.

[0077] Example 13. An aerosol generating apparatus according to any of the foregoing examples, wherein the ultrasonic atomizer is arranged to contact the aerosol forming matrix when the aerosol forming matrix is ​​received in the cavity, and particularly wherein the ultrasonic atomizer is arranged to contact the distal end face of the aerosol forming matrix.

[0078] Example 14. A method for removing excess water from an aerosol forming matrix in an aerosol generating apparatus according to any of the foregoing examples, comprising:

[0079] - In the excess water removal operation of the ultrasonic atomizer, the ultrasonic waves of the atomizer are operated via the controller.

[0080] - The heating operation of the heating element is then operated via the controller.

[0081] The features described with respect to one embodiment can also be applied to other embodiments of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0082] The invention will be further described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0083] Figure 1A and 1B A cross-sectional side view of an aerosol generating apparatus is shown, the apparatus having an ultrasonic atomizer to remove excess water from an aerosol forming matrix received in a cavity of the aerosol generating apparatus; and

[0084] Figure 2 Another illustration shows an ultrasonic nebulizer arranged at the base of the cavity. Detailed Implementation

[0085] Figure 1A and 1B A cross-sectional side view of the aerosol generating apparatus 10 is shown. An aerosol generating article 12 is received in a cavity 14 of the aerosol generating apparatus 10. The aerosol generating article 12 includes an aerosol forming matrix 16. The aerosol generating article 12 also includes a front rod 18 disposed at a distal end of the aerosol generating article 12. The front rod 18 is arranged adjacent to the aerosol forming matrix 16. The aerosol forming matrix 16 is disposed in the matrix portion of the aerosol generating article 12.

[0086] The aerosol generating device 10 also includes an airflow channel 20 that fluidly connects the air inlet 22 of the aerosol generating device 10 to the cavity 14. The airflow channel 20 is located upstream of the cavity 14. The airflow channel 20 is arranged to connect the air inlet 22 to the base of the cavity 14. The base of the cavity 14 is located at the distal end of the cavity 14. The cavity 14 is cylindrical. The base of the cavity 14 is circular.

[0087] The aerosol generating apparatus 10 also includes a heating element 24. The heating element 24 is arranged around the cavity 14. The heating element 24 may be a resistance heating element 24 or an induction heating element 24. In the case of an induction heating element 24, the heating element 24 may include a sensor heated by an induction coil surrounding the sensor. The heating element 24 is configured to heat the aerosol forming matrix 16 of the aerosol generating article 12 when it is received in the cavity 14. The heating element 24 is controlled by a controller (not shown) that controls the heating operation of the heating element 24. During the heating operation, the heating element 24 is heated to heat the aerosol forming matrix 16 and vaporize it. Subsequently, a user can inhale the generated aerosol by drawing air from the proximal end of the aerosol generating article 12. The aerosol is generated from the vaporized aerosol forming matrix 16 that has been drawn through the aerosol generating article 12 and cooled during the process. The cooling of the vaporized aerosol forming matrix 16 causes the formation of droplets in the condensed aerosol forming matrix 16, and the droplets then form inhalable aerosols.

[0088] Figure 1 also shows an ultrasonic atomizer 26. The ultrasonic atomizer 26 is arranged adjacent to the base of the cavity 14. The ultrasonic atomizer 26 is disc-shaped. The ultrasonic atomizer 26 is flat. The ultrasonic atomizer 26 is circular. The ultrasonic atomizer 26 is arranged to contact the distal end face of the aerosol generating article 12 when it is received in the cavity 14. The ultrasonic atomizer 26 is configured to contact the front rod 18 of the aerosol generating article 12 when it is received in the cavity 14.

[0089] The ultrasonic atomizer 26 is configured to be operated by a controller during excess water removal operations. The excess water removal operation is performed prior to the heating operation of the heating element 24. During the excess water removal operation, the ultrasonic atomizer 26 is activated. Activation of the ultrasonic atomizer 26 causes the excess water in the aerosol forming matrix 16 to be atomized. The excess water in the aerosol forming matrix 16 can move towards the ultrasonic atomizer 26 via capillary action through the front bar 18. The ultrasonic atomizer 26 itself may have capillary action to improve the delivery of excess water from the aerosol forming matrix 16 towards the ultrasonic atomizer 26. The ultrasonic atomizer 26 is fluid-permeable, preferably by means of an orifice 30 passing through the ultrasonic atomizer 26, allowing the vaporized excess water to move through the ultrasonic atomizer 26 into the upstream airflow channel 20.

[0090] Figure 1A An aerosol generation device 10 is shown during an excess water removal operation. Excess water in the aerosol forming matrix 16 is vaporized and moved into the upstream airflow channel 20 via an ultrasonic atomizer 26.

[0091] Figure 1B The aerosol generating apparatus 10 is shown after the excess water removal operation. The excess water has been vaporized and moved into the upstream gas flow channel 20. Subsequently, a heating operation can be initiated, thereby heating the aerosol forming matrix 16 by means of the heating element 24. After the heating operation, a user can aspirate from the proximal end of the aerosol generating article 12 and inhale the vaporized aerosol forming matrix 16 and the cold, vaporized excess water in the aerosol forming matrix 16. The cold, vaporized excess water can cool the first aspiration, which can result in a more pleasant experience for the user.

[0092] Figure 2 A diagram shows the arrangement of the ultrasonic atomizer 26 at the distal end of the cavity 14, which serves as the base of the cavity 14. Therefore, when the aerosol generating article 12 is received in the cavity 14, the front rod 18 of the aerosol generating article 12 is in direct contact with the atomizer. The fluid permeability of the atomizer allows excess vaporized water to flow through the ultrasonic atomizer 26 to remove excess water from the aerosol forming matrix 16. Figure 2 Also shown are contacts 28 of the ultrasonic atomizer 26 for electrically contacting one or both of the control for the ultrasonic atomizer 26 and the power supply (not shown) and the aerosol generating device 10. Finally, Figure 2 The orifice 30 of the ultrasonic atomizer 26 and the micropores 32 through the ultrasonic atomizer 26 are shown to improve the airflow through the ultrasonic atomizer 26.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating apparatus, comprising: A cavity for receiving aerosols to form a matrix. A heating element configured to heat the aerosol-forming matrix received in the cavity for generating an inhalable aerosol. An ultrasonic atomizer, wherein the ultrasonic atomizer is configured to atomize excess water in the aerosol forming matrix, and Controller The controller is configured to control the heating operation of the heating element, the controller is configured to control the excess water removal operation of the ultrasonic atomizer, and the controller is configured to perform the excess water removal operation of the ultrasonic atomizer before the heating operation of the heating element.

2. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the ultrasonic atomizer includes a piezoelectric element, preferably configured as a piezoelectric element.

3. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the ultrasonic atomizer comprises an ultrasonic element, preferably configured as an ultrasonic element.

4. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the ultrasonic atomizer is disc-shaped or cylindrical.

5. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the ultrasonic atomizer is arranged to at least partially surround the cavity.

6. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the ultrasonic atomizer is arranged adjacent to the distal end of the cavity.

7. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the ultrasonic atomizer is fluid-permeable.

8. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the ultrasonic atomizer comprises a perforated mesh disk.

9. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the aerosol generating apparatus further comprises an airflow channel upstream of the cavity and fluidly connected to the cavity.

10. The aerosol generating apparatus of claim 9, wherein the ultrasonic atomizer is arranged to guide atomized excess water from the aerosol forming matrix into an upstream airflow channel.

11. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the ultrasonic atomizer includes a central orifice along the longitudinal central axis of the cavity.

12. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the ultrasonic atomizer includes a plurality of perforations parallel to the longitudinal central axis of the cavity.

13. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the ultrasonic atomizer is arranged to contact the aerosol forming matrix when the aerosol forming matrix is ​​received in the cavity, and particularly wherein the ultrasonic atomizer is arranged to contact the distal end face of the aerosol forming matrix.

14. A method for removing excess water from an aerosol forming matrix in an aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising: - In the excess water removal operation of the ultrasonic atomizer, the ultrasonic waves of the atomizer are operated via the controller. - The heating operation of the heating element is then operated via the controller.

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