An aerosol provision system comprising an ion source

Abstract

An aerosol provision system comprising: an aerosol generator for causing aerosol generating material to generate aerosol for inhalation by a user; and an ion source configured to provide ions in the vicinity of an air inlet through which air is drawn in during inhalation by the user to mix with aerosol generated by the aerosol generator, such that the ions are also drawn in through the air inlet during inhalation by the user.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to an aerosol supply system and apparatus. Background Technology

[0002] Aerosol supply systems such as those for electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) and heated tobacco products typically include aerosol-generating materials, such as a source liquid or tobacco rod, which may contain active substances and / or flavorings. An aerosol or vaporized gas is generated from the aerosol-generating material, for example, by heating and vaporization or other means, for inhalation by the user. Therefore, aerosol supply systems typically include an aerosol generator, such as a heater, arranged to vaporize or atomize a portion of the aerosol-generating material to generate a vaporized gas or aerosol in an aerosol-generating chamber. When a user inhales on the system, air is drawn into the system through an air inlet and into the aerosol-generating chamber, where it mixes with the vaporized precursor material to form a condensed aerosol. The condensed aerosol is then extracted from the system for the user to inhale. Summary of the Invention

[0003] According to a first aspect of this disclosure, an aerosol supply system is provided, comprising: an aerosol generator for generating an aerosol from an aerosol generating material for inhalation by a user; and an ion source configured to provide ions near an air inlet, wherein air is drawn in through the air inlet during user inhalation to mix with the aerosol generated by the aerosol generator, such that ions are also inhaled through the air inlet during user inhalation.

[0004] According to a second aspect of this disclosure, an aerosol supply device is provided, comprising an ion source configured to provide ions near an air inlet, wherein air is drawn in through the air inlet during user inhalation to mix with an aerosol generated by an aerosol generator, such that ions are also drawn in through the air inlet during user inhalation.

[0005] According to a third aspect of this disclosure, an aerosol supply component is provided, comprising: an aerosol generating component for generating an aerosol from an aerosol generating material for inhalation by a user; an air inlet component through which air is drawn in during user inhalation to mix with the aerosol generated by the aerosol generating component; and an ion supply component configured to provide ions near the air inlet component such that the ions are inhaled through the air inlet component during user inhalation. According to some embodiments, the position of the ion source relative to the air inlet may be adjustable.

[0006] In some instances, the ion source can be controllable, allowing modification of at least one characteristic of the ions supplied by the ion source. In some instances, this at least one characteristic may include one or more of the following: ion density, ion energy, ion distribution, and ion charge state.

[0007] According to some examples, an ion source may include an ion generator for generating ions near an air inlet.

[0008] According to some examples, an ion source may include an ion generator for generating ions and a guide for directing the ions generated by the ion generator to a vicinity of an air inlet.

[0009] In some instances, ions can include negative ions, and in others, ions can include positive ions. In some instances, ions can include both negative and positive ions.

[0010] According to some examples, aerosol generating materials may include at least one of liquid aerosol generating materials, solid aerosol generating materials, amorphous solid aerosol generating materials, or gel-like aerosol generating materials.

[0011] According to some examples, the aerosol supply device may include a controller for controlling the ion source, enabling the modification of at least one characteristic of the ions supplied by the ion source based on at least one property of the aerosol-generating material. In some examples, at least one property of the aerosol-generating material may include the flavor characteristics of the aerosol-generating material.

[0012] Based on some examples, aerosol-generating materials can contain active substances. Attached Figure Description

[0013] Embodiments of this disclosure will now be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 An aerosol supply system according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure is schematically shown; Figure 2 An aerosol supply system according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure is schematically illustrated; Figure 3 An aerosol supply system according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure is schematically illustrated; Figure 4 An aerosol supply system according to a fourth embodiment of the present disclosure is schematically illustrated; Figure 5 An aerosol supply system according to a fifth embodiment of the present disclosure is schematically illustrated; and Figure 6 An aerosol supply system according to a sixth embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated schematically. Detailed Implementation

[0014] This document discusses / describes aspects and features of certain examples and implementations. Some aspects and features of certain examples and implementations can be conventionally implemented, and for the sake of brevity, these aspects and features are not discussed / described in detail. Therefore, it should be understood that aspects and features of the devices and methods discussed herein that are not described in detail can be implemented using any conventional techniques for implementing such aspects and features.

[0015] As used herein, the term “supply system” (sometimes also referred to as “delivery system”) is intended to encompass systems that deliver / provide at least one substance to a user during use, and includes: non-combustible aerosol supply systems that release compounds from aerosol-generating materials without burning them, such as electronic cigarettes, heated tobacco products, and mixing systems that use a combination of aerosol-generating materials to generate aerosols.

[0016] According to this disclosure, a "non-combustible" aerosol supply system is an aerosol supply system in which the aerosol generating material is either non-combustible or combustible, and delivers at least one substance to the user.

[0017] In some embodiments, the delivery system is a non-combustible aerosol supply system, such as a powered non-combustible aerosol supply system. In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol supply system is an electronic cigarette, also known as a vaporizer or electronic nicotine delivery system (END); however, it should be noted that the presence of nicotine in the aerosol-generating material is not essential. In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol supply system is a system for heating the aerosol-generating material, also known as a heated non-combustible system. An example of such a system is a tobacco heating system.

[0018] In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol supply system is a mixing system that uses a combination of aerosol-generating materials to generate aerosols, wherein one or more of these aerosol-generating materials can be heated. Each aerosol-generating material may be in the form of, for example, a solid, liquid, gel, and / or amorphous solid, and may or may not contain nicotine. In some embodiments, the mixing system may, for example, include liquid or gel aerosol-generating materials and solid aerosol-generating materials. Solid aerosol-generating materials may include, for example, tobacco or non-tobacco products.

[0019] Typically, a non-combustible aerosol supply system may include a non-combustible aerosol supply device and consumables for use with the non-combustible aerosol supply device. In some embodiments, this disclosure relates to consumables comprising aerosol-generating materials and configured for use with a non-combustible aerosol supply device. These consumables are sometimes referred to herein as articles, cartridges, or vaporizers, and these terms should be understood to be interchangeable herein. The term "consumable" indicates that the component contains materials consumed during use. Consumables may be entirely disposable and can be discarded entirely once the consumable material in the consumable is depleted, or in other cases, the consumable material may be replenished after it is depleted and the consumable may be retained for subsequent use.

[0020] In some implementations, a non-combustible aerosol supply system, such as its non-combustible aerosol supply device, may include a power source and a controller.

[0021] In some embodiments, a non-combustible aerosol supply system may include a region for receiving consumables, an aerosol generator, an aerosol generation region, a housing, a nozzle, a filter, and / or an aerosol modifier. In some embodiments, consumables for use with a non-combustible aerosol supply device may include aerosol generating material, an aerosol generating material storage region, an aerosol generating material transport component, an aerosol generator, an aerosol generation region, a housing, packaging paper, a filter, a nozzle, and / or an aerosol modifier.

[0022] In some embodiments, the substance to be delivered may include one or more active ingredients, one or more flavoring agents, one or more aerosol forming agents and / or one or more other functional materials.

[0023] In some embodiments, the substance to be delivered may include an active substance. As used herein, an active substance may be a physiologically active material, which is a material intended to achieve or enhance a physiological response. Active substances may be, for example, selected from nutritional supplements, nootropics, and / or psychoactive substances. Active substances may be naturally occurring or synthetically obtained. Active substances may include, for example, nicotine, caffeine, taurine, caffeine, vitamins (such as B6 or B12 or C), melatonin, or components, derivatives, or combinations thereof. Active substances may include one or more components, derivatives, or extracts of tobacco or other plants.

[0024] As mentioned herein, active substances may include or be derived from one or more plants or their components, derivatives, or extracts. As used herein, the term "plant" includes any material derived from a plant, including but not limited to extracts, leaves, bark, fibers, stems, roots, seeds, flowers, fruits, pollen, shells, pods, etc. Alternatively, the material may include naturally occurring active compounds found in plants, obtained through synthesis. The material may be in the form of a liquid, gas, solid, powder, dust, crushed particles, fine particles, pellets, fragments, strips, flakes, etc.

[0025] Examples of plants include tobacco, eucalyptus, star anise, hemp plants, cocoa, fennel, lemongrass, peppermint, spearmint, red tea tree, chamomile, flax, ginger, ginkgo, hazelnut, hibiscus, bay leaf, licorice (licorice extract), matcha, yerba mate, orange peel, papaya, rose, sage, tea (such as green or black tea), thyme, clove, cinnamon, coffee, anise, basil, bay leaf, cardamom, coriander, cumin, nutmeg, oregano, red pepper, rosemary, and saffron. Lavender, lemon peel, mint, juniper, elderberry, vanilla, holly, perilla, turmeric, turmeric root powder, sandalwood, coriander leaves, bergamot, orange blossom, myrtle, blackcurrant, valerian, Spanish bell pepper, dried nutmeg, damarin, marjoram, olive, lemon mint, lemon basil, chives, parsley, verbena, tarragon, geranium, mulberry, ginseng, theanine, tetramethyluric acid, maca, Indian ginseng, dami, guanyote, chlorophyll, baobab, or any combination thereof. Mint may be selected from the following mint varieties: wild mint, mint CV, Egyptian mint, peppermint, basil mint CV, peppermint CV, spearmint, heartleaf spearmint, longleaf mint, pineapple mint, lip mint, spearmint CV, and apple mint.

[0026] In some embodiments, the active substance comprises or is derived from one or more plants or their components, derivatives, or extracts, and the plant is tobacco. In some embodiments, the active substance comprises or is derived from one or more plants or their components, derivatives, or extracts, and the plant is selected from eucalyptus, star anise, and cocoa. In some embodiments, the active substance comprises or is derived from one or more plants or their components, derivatives, or extracts, and the plant is selected from red tea tree and fennel.

[0027] As mentioned herein, in some embodiments, the substance to be delivered includes a flavoring agent. As used herein, the terms "flavoring agent" and "flavoring" refer to materials that, where permitted by local regulations, can be used in a product to create a taste, mouthfeel, or other bodily sensation desired by an adult consumer. These can include naturally occurring flavoring materials, plants, plant extracts, synthetically obtained materials, or combinations thereof (e.g., tobacco, licorice (licorice extract), hydrangea, eugenol, Japanese magnolia leaf, chamomile, fenugreek, clove, maple, matcha, menthol, Japanese peppermint, anise, cinnamon, turmeric, Indian spices, Asian spices, herbs, holly, cherry, berries, raspberries, cranberries, peach, apple, orange, mango, citrus, lemon, lime, tropical fruits, papaya, etc.). Yellow, grapes, durian, dragon fruit, cucumber, blueberry, mulberry, citrus fruits, Tolingo, bourbon whiskey, Scotch whiskey, whiskey, gin, tequila, rum, spearmint, mint, lavender, aloe vera, cardamom, celery, bitter bean husk, nutmeg, sandalwood, bergamot, geranium, arabesque tea, sorghum, areca leaf, coriander, pine, honey extract, rose oil, vanilla, lemon oil, orange oil, orange blossom, cherry blossom, cinnamon, caraway, cognac, jasmine, ylang-ylang, sage. Herbs, fennel, mustard, green bell pepper, ginger, coriander, coffee, peppermint oil from any kind of mint, eucalyptus, star anise, cocoa, lemongrass, red beans, flax, ginkgo leaves, hazelnuts, hibiscus, bay leaves, yerba mate, orange peel, rose, tea (such as green or black tea), thyme, juniper, elderberry, basil, bay leaves, cumin, oregano, chili peppers, rosemary, saffron, lemon peel, mint, perilla, turmeric, coriander, myrtle, blackcurrant, valerian, Spanish bell pepper, dried nutmeg, and more. Meadows, marjoram, olives, lemon balm, lemon basil, scallions, parsley, verbena, tarragon, limonene, thymol, camphene), flavor enhancers, bitter receptor site blockers, sensory receptor site activators or stimulants, sugars and / or sugar substitutes (e.g., sucralose, acesulfame potassium, aspartame, saccharin, cyclosulfonates, lactose, sucrose, glucose, fructose, sorbitol, or mannitol), and other additives such as charcoal, chlorophyll, minerals, plants, or breath fresheners. They can be imitation, synthetic, or natural ingredients or mixtures thereof. They can be in any suitable form, such as liquids like oils, solids like powders, or gases.

[0028] In some embodiments, the flavoring agent includes menthol, spearmint, and / or pepper. In some embodiments, the flavoring agent includes flavor components of cucumber, blueberry, citrus fruits, and / or cranberry. In some embodiments, the flavoring agent includes eugenol. In some embodiments, the flavoring agent includes flavor components extracted from tobacco.

[0029] In some embodiments, in addition to or in place of aromatactic or gustatory nerves, flavoring agents may also include sensory agents designed to achieve somatic sensations typically induced and perceived by chemical stimulation of the fifth cranial nerve (trigeminal nerve), and these may include agents that provide heating, cooling, tingling, or numbing effects. Suitable thermal agents may be, but are not limited to, vanillyl ether, and suitable coolants may be, but are not limited to, eucalyptol, WS-3.

[0030] Aerosol-generating materials are materials capable of generating aerosols, for example, when heated, irradiated, or powered in any other way. Aerosol-generating materials can be in the form of, for example, solids, liquids, or gels, and may or may not contain active substances and / or fragrances. In some embodiments, aerosol-generating materials may include “amorphous solids,” which may alternatively be referred to as “monolithic solids” (i.e., non-fibrous). In some embodiments, the amorphous solid may be a dried gel. An amorphous solid is a solid material that can retain some fluid (such as a liquid) within it. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material may, for example, comprise from about 50 wt%, 60 wt%, or 70 wt% amorphous solids to about 90 wt%, 95 wt%, or 100 wt% amorphous solids.

[0031] Aerosol-generating materials may include one or more active substances and / or flavoring agents, one or more aerosol-forming agent materials, and optionally one or more other functional materials.

[0032] Aerosol forming agent materials may include one or more components capable of forming aerosols. In some embodiments, aerosol forming agent materials may include one or more of the following: glycerol, propylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol, erythritol, meso-erythritol, ethyl vanillate, ethyl laurate, diethyl octanoate, triethyl citrate, triacetin, a mixture of glycerol diacetate, benzyl benzoate, benzyl phenyl acetate, glyceryl tribocate, lauryl acetate, lauric acid, myristic acid, and propylene carbonate.

[0033] The other or more functional materials may include one or more of pH adjusters, colorants, preservatives, binders, fillers, stabilizers and / or antioxidants.

[0034] The material may be present on or within a carrier to form a matrix. The carrier may be, or include, for example, paper, cardboard, cardboard, reconstituted materials, plastic materials, ceramic materials, composite materials, glass, metal, or metal alloys. In some embodiments, the carrier includes a receptor. In some embodiments, the receptor is embedded within the material. In some alternative embodiments, the receptor is located on one or both sides of the material.

[0035] Therefore, consumables are articles comprising or composed of aerosol-generating materials, some or all of which are intended to be consumed by a user during use. Consumables may include one or more other components, such as an aerosol-generating material storage area, an aerosol-generating material delivery component (e.g., a wicking element), an aerosol-generating area, a housing, packaging paper, a nozzle, a filter, and / or an aerosol modifier. Consumables may also include an aerosol generator, such as a heater, which releases heat during use to cause the aerosol-generating material to generate an aerosol. The heater may, for example, include a material that can be heated by electrical conduction, or a sensor.

[0036] A sensor is a material that can be heated by being penetrated by a changing magnetic field, such as an alternating magnetic field. A sensor can be a conductive material, such that penetration by a changing magnetic field results in induction heating of the heating material. A heating material can be a magnetic material, such that penetration by a changing magnetic field results in hysteresis heating of the heating material. A sensor can be both conductive and magnetic, allowing it to be heated by both heating mechanisms. In this paper, a device configured to generate a changing magnetic field is referred to as a magnetic field generator.

[0037] Aerosol modifiers are substances typically located downstream of the aerosol generation region, configured to modify the generated aerosols, for example, by altering their taste, flavor, acidity, or other properties. Aerosol modifiers can be disposed in aerosol modifier release components operable to selectively release the aerosol modifier. For example, aerosol modifiers can be additives or adsorbents. For instance, aerosol modifiers may include one or more of fragrances, colorants, water, and carbon adsorbents. Aerosol modifiers can be, for example, solids, liquids, or gels. Aerosol modifiers can be in powder, filament, or granular form. Aerosol modifiers may not contain filter material.

[0038] An aerosol generator is a device configured to generate aerosols from aerosol-generating material. In some embodiments, the aerosol generator is a heater configured to subject the aerosol-generating material to heat energy, causing the material to release one or more volatiles to form an aerosol. In some embodiments, the aerosol generator is configured to generate aerosols from aerosol-generating material without heating. For example, an aerosol generator may be configured to subject the aerosol-generating material to one or more of vibration, increased or decreased pressure, or electrostatic energy. The terms "aerosol" and "atomizing gas," as well as related terms such as "vaporization," "atomization," and "aerosolization," are commonly used in this art and are generally used interchangeably.

[0039] Aerosol supply systems typically (but not always) include modular components comprising reusable device parts and replaceable (disposable / consumable) cartridge parts. For systems using liquid aerosol generating materials, the consumable / cartridge sometimes includes a liquid aerosol generating material reservoir and an aerosol generator (however, in other instances, the aerosol generator may be located within the device part); for systems using solid aerosol generating materials, the consumable / cartridge sometimes includes a cigarette-like tobacco stick heated by a heater (aerosol generator) within the device part (however, in other instances, the aerosol generator may be at least partially located within the consumable, such as in the form of a sensor (heating element) within the tobacco stick).

[0040] If a consumable includes aerosol-generating material and a vaporizer / atomizer / aerosol generator, it may sometimes be referred to as a "vapor cartridge." The reusable device portion may include a power supply (e.g., a rechargeable power source) and control circuitry. It should be understood that these different portions may also include other elements depending on their function. For example, the reusable device portion typically includes a user interface for receiving user input and displaying operational status characteristics, and in some cases, the replaceable consumable device portion includes a temperature sensor to help control the temperature. Consumables are typically electrically and mechanically coupled to a control unit for use, for example, using threads, bayonet joints, or magnetic coupling devices with suitably arranged electrical contacts; however, in other instances, consumables may not include mechanical coupling structures (e.g., they may simply be located in a predetermined position for use, as is the case with tobacco stick consumables) and / or may not include electrical coupling structures (e.g., power may be transmitted wirelessly, such as by induction heating or heat conduction, or the aerosol generator may not be electrically driven or may be located within the reusable device portion). When the aerosol generating material in the consumable is depleted or the user wishes to switch to a different consumable with a different aerosol generating material, the consumable can be removed from the reusable part (device), and a replacement consumable (cartridge) can be attached. Systems conforming to this type of two-piece modular configuration are generally referred to as two-piece systems. An aerosol supply system may alternatively comprise a single unit that does not include the consumable part configured to be detachably connected by the user and the separate reusable device part. Such an aerosol supply system may be referred to as a "single-piece" aerosol supply system or device. Such a system / device is designed to be discarded once the battery's power reserve and / or the aerosol generating material reserve supplied with the system / device is depleted, without requiring refilling or recharging of the device. In such a system / device, components including the aerosol generating material reservoir, aerosol generator, power supply (e.g., battery), and control circuitry can all be housed within a single housing. Such an aerosol supply system or device may be referred to as a "disposable" aerosol supply system or device.

[0041] Electronic cigarettes typically have a generally elongated shape. For the sake of specific examples, certain embodiments of this disclosure will be considered to include such a generally elongated two-piece system employing a disposable consumable. However, it should be understood that the basic principles described herein can also be applied to different configurations, such as single-piece systems or modular systems comprising more than two parts, refillable devices and single-use disposable items, and other overall shapes, such as those based on so-called box-type high-performance devices that are typically square. More generally, it should be understood that certain embodiments of this disclosure are based on aerosol supply systems that are operationally configured to provide new functionality according to the principles described herein, and other structural aspects of these systems configured to provide new functionality are not critical.

[0042] Figure 1 This is a cross-sectional view taken through an exemplary aerosol supply system 100 according to certain embodiments of the present disclosure. System 100 includes two main components: a device portion 2 and a consumable portion 4. Device portion 2 may alternatively be referred to as a reusable portion, control unit, aerosol supply device, etc., and consumable portion 4 may alternatively be referred to as a replaceable portion / disposable portion / cartridge. Device portion 2 and consumable portion 4 may be referred to together as a system (e.g., an aerosol supply system / aerosol delivery system). The fact that this example is a two-piece device does not in itself directly affect the system functionality that will be described further herein.

[0043] During normal use, device 2 and consumable 4 are releasably connected together at interface 6. When the consumable is depleted or the user simply wishes to replace it with a different consumable, the consumable can be removed from the device and a replacement consumable can be attached to and placed in place. Interface 6 provides structural, electrical, and air path connections between the two parts and can be established using conventional techniques, such as based on threaded, latching, magnetic, frictional, or bayonet-type fixing structures, and appropriate electrical contacts and openings can be provided as needed to establish electrical connections and air paths between the two parts. The specific manner in which consumable 4 is connected to device 2 is not important to the principles described herein, but for the sake of providing a concrete example, it is assumed here that a resilient latching mechanism is included, for example, utilizing mating latching engagement elements (in... Figure 1(Not shown) A portion of the consumable is received in a corresponding receiving section within the device. It should also be understood that in some implementations, interface 6 may not support electrical connections between the corresponding portions. For example, in some implementations, the vaporizer may be provided by the device itself, rather than being located in the consumable, or power may be transferred from the device to the consumable wirelessly (e.g., based on electromagnetic induction), eliminating the need for an electrical connection between the device and the consumable. It should also be understood that in some implementations, interface 6 may not support air path connections between the corresponding portions. For example, in some implementations, the air inlet may be an opening within the consumable itself, or the air inlet may be provided by a gap between the consumable and the device, preventing airflow through the interface between the device and the consumable during use.

[0044] According to certain embodiments of this disclosure, consumable 4 can be generally conventional. Figure 1 In this embodiment, consumable 4 includes a consumable housing 42 made of plastic material. The consumable housing 42 supports other components of the consumable and provides a mechanical interface 6 with device 2. In this example, the consumable housing is approximately circularly symmetrical about the longitudinal axis along which the consumable is attached to device 2. In this example, the consumable has a length of approximately 4 cm and a diameter of approximately 2 cm. However, it should be understood that the specific geometry, and more generally the overall shape and materials used, may vary in different implementations.

[0045] A reservoir 44 for containing liquid aerosol generating material (atomizing gas precursor material) is provided within the consumable housing 42. The liquid aerosol generating material can be conventional and can be referred to as e-liquid. In this example, the liquid reservoir 44 has an annular shape, its outer wall defined by the consumable housing 42, and its inner wall 58 defining an air path 52 through the consumable 4. Each end of the reservoir 44 is closed with an end wall for containing the e-liquid. The reservoir 44 can be manufactured using conventional techniques; for example, it can comprise a plastic material and be integrally molded with the consumable housing 42.

[0046] The consumable 4 also includes a core 46 and an aerosol generator (vaporizer) 48 in the form of a heater, positioned toward the end of the reservoir 44 opposite the mouthpiece outlet 50. In this example, the core 46 extends laterally through the consumable air path 52, its end extending into the e-liquid reservoir 44 through an opening in the inner wall of the reservoir 44. The opening in the inner wall of the reservoir 44 is sized to substantially match the size of the core 46 to provide an ideal seal to prevent liquid leakage from the reservoir into the consumable air path without over-compressing the core (which could affect its fluid delivery performance).

[0047] The core 46 and aerosol generator 48 are arranged in the consumable air path 52 such that the region of the consumable air path 52 surrounding the core 46 and aerosol generator 48 effectively defines an aerosol generation or vaporization region for the consumable. E-liquid in the reservoir 44 seeps into the core 46 through the end of the core extending into the reservoir 44 and is drawn along the core by surface tension / capillary action (i.e., wicking). In this example, the aerosol generator 48 includes a resistance wire wound around the core 46. In this example, the aerosol generator 48 includes a nickel-chromium alloy (Cr20Ni80) wire, and the core 46 includes a bundle of glass fibers; however, it should be understood that the specific aerosol generator configuration is not important to the principles described herein. For example, in some cases, the aerosol generator may include traces of a resistance heater deposited on a porous ceramic block in fluid communication with a reservoir of liquid aerosol generating material.

[0048] During use, power can be selectively supplied to the aerosol generator 48 (e.g., in response to detecting user inhalation) to vaporize a certain amount of e-liquid (aerosol generating material) drawn into the vicinity of the aerosol generator 48 through the core 46. The vaporized e-liquid can then be carried along with air drawn in from the vaporization area along the consumable air path and discharged from the mouthpiece outlet 50 for the user to inhale.

[0049] The rate at which the aerosol generator (heater) 48 vaporizes the aerosol-generating material typically depends on the amount (level) of power supplied to the aerosol generator 48 during use (among other factors). Therefore, electricity can be applied to the aerosol generator to selectively generate atomized gas from the aerosol-generating material in the consumable 4, and furthermore, the rate of atomized gas generation can be altered by changing the amount of power supplied to the aerosol generator 48 (e.g., through pulse width and / or frequency modulation techniques).

[0050] Device 2 includes: an outer housing 12 having an opening that defines an air inlet 28 for the system; a battery 26 for providing operating power; a control circuit 20 for controlling and monitoring system operation; a user input button 14; a suction sensor (swallowing detector) 16, in this example including a pressure sensor located in a pressure sensor chamber 18; a visual display 24; and an ion source 27.

[0051] The outer housing 12 can be made of, for example, plastic or metal, and in this example has a circular cross-sectional area that is substantially the same as the shape and size of the consumable 4, so as to achieve a smooth transition between the two parts at the interface 6. In this example, the device has a length of approximately 6 cm, such that when the consumable and the device are connected, the total length of the system is approximately 10 cm. However, and as already noted, it should be recognized that the overall shape and size of the device implementing the embodiments of this disclosure are not important to the principles described herein.

[0052] Air inlet 28 connects to air path 30 passing through device 2. When device 2 and consumable 4 are connected, device air path 30 further connects to consumable air path 52 across interface 6. Pressure sensor chamber 18, which houses pressure sensor 16, is in fluid communication with air path 30 in device 2 (i.e., pressure sensor chamber 18 branches off from air path 30 in device 2). Therefore, when a user inhales at nozzle opening 50, a pressure drop occurs in pressure sensor chamber 18, which can be detected by pressure sensor 16. Furthermore, air is drawn in through air inlet 28, flows along device air path 30, crosses interface 6, passes through atomization area near aerosol generator 48 (where vaporized aerosol material is entrained in the airflow when the aerosol generator is on), then flows along consumable air path 52 and is discharged through nozzle opening 50 for user inhalation.

[0053] In this example, battery 26 is rechargeable and can be of a conventional type, such as those commonly used in systems and other applications that require providing relatively high current over a relatively short period of time. Battery 26 can be recharged via a charging connector (e.g., a USB connector) in the device housing 12.

[0054] In this example, the user input button 14 is a conventional mechanical button, which includes, for example, a spring-loaded component that can be pressed by a user to establish electrical contact. In this regard, the input button can be considered as providing a manual input mechanism to the terminal device, but the specific implementation of the button is not important. For example, in other implementations, different forms of mechanical buttons or touch-sensitive buttons (e.g., based on capacitive or optical sensing technology) can be used. For example, the specific implementation of the button can be chosen based on the desired aesthetic appearance.

[0055] Display 24 is configured to provide the user with visual indications of various system-related characteristics, such as current power settings, ion source settings, remaining battery power, etc. The display can be implemented in various ways. In this example, display 24 includes a conventional pixelated LCD screen, which can be driven using conventional techniques to display the desired information. In other implementations, the display may include one or more discrete indicators, such as LEDs, arranged to display the desired information, for example, through a specific color and / or flashing sequence. More generally, the configuration of the display and the manner in which it is used to display information to the user are not critical to the principles described herein. Some embodiments may omit a visual display and instead include other methods to provide the user with information related to system operating characteristics, such as using audio signals or haptic feedback, or may omit any method of providing the user with information related to system operating characteristics.

[0056] The control circuitry 20 is appropriately configured / programmed to control system operation, thereby providing functionality consistent with embodiments of this disclosure (which will be further described herein), and employing established techniques for controlling such devices to provide conventional system operation functions. The control circuitry (processor circuitry) 20 can be considered as logically comprising various sub-units / circuit elements associated with different aspects of system operation consistent with the principles described herein and other conventional system operation aspects, such as display driver circuitry and user input detectors. It should be recognized that the functionality of the control circuitry 20 can be provided in various different ways, for example, using one or more appropriately programmed programmable computers and / or one or more appropriately configured application-specific integrated circuits / circuit systems / chips / chipsets to provide the desired functionality.

[0057] In this example, the vapor supply system 1 includes a user input button 14 and a suction sensor 16. Control circuitry 20 can be configured to receive a signal from the suction sensor 16 and use that signal to determine whether a user is inhaling on the system, and also to receive a signal from the input button 14 and use that signal to determine whether a user is pressing (i.e., activating) the input button. These aspects of system operation (i.e., throughput detection and button press detection) can be performed using established techniques (e.g., using conventional suction sensors and suction sensor signal processing techniques, and conventional input buttons and input button signal processing techniques). Other exemplary vapor supply systems may have only one of the user input button 14 and the suction sensor 16. In other instances, depending on the system configuration and operation, the vapor supply system may have neither a user input button nor a suction sensor.

[0058] Although Figure 1An example is a two-piece system, but in other embodiments, the aerosol supply system 1 may include a single-piece device, wherein the power source, ion generator, controller, atomizer / aerosol generator, and aerosol generating material may be housed in a single housing. It should be understood that aspects of this disclosure that do not relate to the interface between the reusable device portion 2 and the consumable portion 4 also apply to embodiments of the single-piece device.

[0059] It should be understood that, in situations such as Figure 1 In the two-piece device illustrated in the examples, the aerosol generator can be located in either the device section 2 or the consumable section 4. For example, the aerosol generator (e.g., a heater) can be located in the reusable device section, and when the consumable is engaged with the reusable device section, the aerosol generator is positioned near a portion of the aerosol-generating material in the consumable section. In some instances, the aerosol generator can actually be distributed between the device section and the consumable section. For example, the aerosol generator may include an induction drive coil in the device section configured to electromagnetically couple with a sensor (heating element) within the consumable.

[0060] As mentioned above, and unlike conventional aerosol supply systems, Figure 1 The aerosol supply system 100 includes an ion source 27. The ion source 27 includes an ion generator 27a configured to generate ions, such that the ion source 27 provides ions to the vicinity of an air inlet 28. During user inhalation, air is drawn in through the air inlet to mix with the aerosol generated by the aerosol generator. Therefore, when the ion source is activated, the generated ions are drawn in from the ambient air / environment surrounding the aerosol supply device through the air inlet during user inhalation.

[0061] Ion generator 27a can be implemented based on any conventional ion generation technology, such as corona discharge technology. Ion generator 27a can employ the technology used in commercially available ion generators, such as the Airvida M1 from Airvida, which can generate ions at a density of approximately two million per cubic centimeter in 0.6 seconds, or the technology disclosed in US2021128776 [1]. The specific technology on which ion generator 27a in ion source 27 operates is not critical to the operation of the aerosol supply system / device.

[0062] In this example, ion generator 27a is configured to generate negative ions. However, in other examples, ion generator 27a may be configured to generate positive ions, or both negative and positive ions. Ion source 27 is arranged such that the ion generator generates ions near air inlet 28. That is, ion source 27 provides (delivers) ions to the vicinity of air inlet 28 so that when a user inhales on the aerosol supply system, ions can be drawn from the air surrounding the aerosol supply system into the air inlet. Therefore, the aerosol supply device is configured to activate ion source 27 when a user inhales on the system, causing ion generator 27a to generate ions. For example, ion source 27 may be activated simultaneously with aerosol generator 48. Thus, when a user inhales at the nozzle end of system 100, control circuit / controller 20 is configured to detect a relevant pressure drop based on a signal received from throughput sensor 16, and in response, supply power to aerosol generator 48 and ion source 27. Since ion source 27 is arranged to provide ions to the vicinity of air inlet 28, when a user inhales on system 100, the air drawn into air inlet 28 includes ions from ion generator 27a. The ionized incoming air then mixes with the aerosol generated by the aerosol generator within the aerosol supply system, and is modified during its journey along air path 52 before exiting the system through nozzle outlet 50, where the aerosol can be inhaled by the user. Depending on the specific implementation, ion source 27 can be activated whenever a user inhales on the aerosol supply system (e.g., whenever the aerosol generator is activated), or it can be activated selectively (e.g., in response to user input), allowing the user to choose whether or not to use the aerosol supply system with the ion generator activated.

[0063] The inventors have discovered that supplying ionized air (hereinafter referred to as "ionized air") to the air surrounding the inlet of an aerosol supply system, such that the air drawn into the system to mix with the aerosol generated by the aerosol generator contains ions, affects how the aerosol is formed and how the user perceives the properties of the aerosol.

[0064] Specifically, it has been found that the presence of ions can alter the sensory characteristics of aerosols perceived by users. For example, in blind tests, users identified the following characteristics in aerosols generated by the aerosol supply device when the ion source is activated, compared to aerosols generated by the same aerosol supply device when the ion source is not activated: Increased sweetness; The flavor is richer; Smoother texture; More aerosols; The perceived coolness is stronger (for example, in terms of mint flavor). Consistency (better); Nicotine deposition decreases in the mouth but increases in the lungs; Without being bound by theory, it is believed that the influence of negative ions on the formation mode of condensed aerosols in the aerosol supply system helps to change the perceived sensory characteristics of aerosols.

[0065] The specific location of the ion generator 27a relative to the air inlet 28 can be selected to ensure that ions from the ion generator 27a are provided to the area from which air is drawn when a user inhales on the aerosol supply system. The specific relative location will depend on, for example, the location of the air inlet and the distribution range of the ions generated by the specific ion generator 27a used in a given implementation. For example, if the distribution of ions from the ion generator 27a is more directional, the ion generator 27a can be positioned further away from the air inlet compared to a more diffuse distribution of ions from the ion generator 27a. Generally, the location of the ion source relative to the air inlet 28 can be determined experimentally during the design phase of the aerosol supply system 100. As will be discussed further below, in some instances, the location of the ion source relative to the air inlet can be adjustable.

[0066] According to some embodiments of this disclosure, various aspects of the operation of the ion source 27 can be controlled by the control circuit 20, allowing modification of at least one characteristic of the ions provided by the ion source. For example, the control circuit 20 can be configured to adjust one or more of ion density, ion energy, ion distribution, and ion charge state to modulate the impact of the ions on the user experience. The control circuit 20 can, for example, be configured to adjust the characteristics of the ions provided by the ion source in response to user input, and / or automatically adjust the characteristics of the ions provided by the ion source in response to detecting an indicator indicating that a certain type of consumable has been connected to the device. For example, the control circuit 20 can be configured to adjust the characteristics of the ions provided by the ion source based on one or more characteristics of the aerosol-generating material (such as the flavor characteristics or nicotine content of the aerosol-generating material).

[0067] Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional view taken through another exemplary aerosol supply system 200 according to certain embodiments of this disclosure. Figure 2 The aerosol supply system 200 shown is with Figure 1The corresponding components and features of the aerosol supply system 100 shown are functionally similar and can be understood from them. The corresponding components and features are identified by the corresponding reference numerals and will not be discussed in detail for the sake of brevity. Figure 2 Aerosol supply system 200 and Figure 1 The difference between the aerosol supply system 100 and the previous one lies in the arrangement of the air inlet 28 of the aerosol supply device. Figure 1 In this example, air inlet 28 is provided by an opening in the housing of the device, which connects to an air path 30 passing through the device 2 and then to a consumable. Figure 2 In this example, the air inlet of the device / system is provided by the consumable 4 connected to the device 2 for use in creating a gap between the device and the consumable 4. Because in this example the air inlet 28 is at least partially defined by the device, it can still be referred to as the air inlet of the device.

[0068] Therefore, in Figure 2 In this example, the air inlet 28 is provided by an annular gap surrounding the consumable 4 and connecting to the end of the device 2. Thus, ambient air (carrying ions from the ion source) enters the system 100 through the gap 28 between the device 2 and the consumable 4, and then connects to the air path 52 in the consumable and to the sensor chamber 18 in the device that houses the suction sensor 16.

[0069] therefore, Figure 1 and Figure 2 Two different arrangements of the air inlet for an aerosol supply system are schematically illustrated. In some other instances, the air inlet may be provided by an opening leading to the body of the consumable, rather than as shown... Figure 1 The opening shown is provided by the opening in the body of the device, and is not as... Figure 2 The gap between the device and the consumable is shown. Therefore, the system air inlet located in the consumable can be directly connected to the air path in which the aerosol is generated. The system air inlet located in the consumable can also be connected across the interface between the consumable and the device, thereby achieving fluid communication with the suction sensor in the device. It is assumed here that a suction sensor is present in the system because it should be understood that in some embodiments of this disclosure, the system may not include a suction sensor regardless of where the air inlet is located, as the system may be manually activated, for example, by a user pressing a button, or automatically activated based on other technologies such as motion sensing.

[0070] More generally, the specific configuration of the air inlet 28 is not important to the basic principles of the embodiments of this disclosure described herein. What is important is that the ion source is configured to provide ions to the vicinity of the air inlet, such that the ions are drawn into the system during the user's inhalation and mixed with the aerosol generated by the aerosol generator.

[0071] Aside from the different arrangement used to allow air to enter the system, Figure 2 The operation of the aerosol supply system 200 shown is essentially the same as... Figure 1 The operation is the same as that of the aerosol supply system 100 shown.

[0072] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view taken through another exemplary aerosol supply system 300 according to certain embodiments of this disclosure. Figure 3 The aerosol supply system 300 shown is with Figure 1 The corresponding components and features of the aerosol supply system 100 shown are functionally similar and can be understood from them. The corresponding components and features are identified by corresponding reference numerals and will not be discussed in detail for the sake of brevity. Figure 3 Aerosol supply system 300 and Figure 1 The difference between the aerosol supply system 100 and the previous one lies in the installation method of the ion source 27 in the device section 2 of the system 300. Figure 1 In the example, ion source 27 is shown mounted on the outside of a housing for other components of device 2, while Figure 3 In this example, the ion source 27 is shown as being installed within the body of device 2. Therefore, Figure 1 The arrangement seen may represent a modification of an existing aerosol supply system to achieve the operational functions disclosed herein related to providing ions adsorbed into the system during use. Figure 3 The arrangement seen may represent an aerosol supply system originally designed to incorporate the operational functions disclosed herein related to providing ions adsorbed into the system during use.

[0073] Therefore, in Figure 3 In this example, the ion source 27 is included within the main body of the device 2, with its ion generator 27a arranged adjacent to the ion outlet opening 27b in the device housing 12. When the ion source 27 is activated, ions are provided through this ion outlet opening. The ion outlet opening 27b in the device housing is arranged relative to the air inlet 28 such that the ion source can provide ions to the vicinity of the air inlet, so that when a user inhales on the system 300, ions are drawn into the air inlet, in the same manner as described above for... Figure 1 The methods discussed are the same.

[0074] therefore, Figure 1 and Figure 2 Two different arrangements of the ion source in the aerosol supply system are schematically illustrated. However, the specific configuration of the ion source 27 within the system is not important to the basic principles of the embodiments of this disclosure described herein. What is important is that the ion source is configured to provide ions to the vicinity of an air inlet through which air is drawn into the system during use, thereby mixing the ions with the aerosol generated by the aerosol generator during the user's inhalation.

[0075] Apart from the different arrangement for installing the ion source 27 in the aerosol supply system, Figure 3 The operation of the aerosol supply system 300 shown is essentially the same as... Figure 1 The operation is the same as that of the aerosol supply system 100 shown.

[0076] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view taken through another exemplary aerosol supply system 400 according to certain embodiments of this disclosure. Figure 4 The aerosol supply system 400 shown is with Figure 3 The corresponding components and features of the aerosol supply system 300 shown are functionally similar and can be understood from them. The corresponding components and features are identified by the corresponding reference numerals and will not be discussed in detail for the sake of brevity. Figure 4 Aerosol supply system 400 and Figure 3 The difference between the aerosol supply system 300 and the previous one lies in the arrangement of the ion source 27, which is used to provide ions to the vicinity of the air inlet so that the ions are drawn into the air inlet during use (i.e., during the user's inhalation). Figure 3 In one example, the ion source 27 has an ion outlet opening 27b located in the device housing, which is positioned to directly supply ions from the ion generator 27a in the ion source 27 to the vicinity of the air inlet 28. However, in Figure 4 In this example, the ion source 27 also has an ion outlet opening 27b located in the device housing, except that this ion outlet opening is smaller than... Figure 3The ion source 27 is located further away from the air inlet 28, and alternatively, ions are guided from the ion generator 27a to the vicinity of the air inlet using an ion guide / channel 27c. The ion channel 27c can be, for example, simply a plastic tubular structure having an inlet aligned with an ion outlet opening 27b in the device housing and an ion guide outlet 27d located at an end near the air inlet. Thus, the ion source 27 includes an ion generator 27a, an ion outlet opening 27b located in the device housing, an ion channel 27c, and an ion guide outlet 27d for delivering ions generated by the ion generator 27a to the vicinity of the air inlet, so that ions can be drawn into the air inlet when a user inhales on the system 400.

[0077] therefore, Figure 3 and Figure 4 Two different arrangements of the ion source 27 are schematically shown. The ion source is used to supply / deliver ions from the ion generator to the area surrounding the air inlet of the system, so that ions can be drawn into the air inlet during use. However, it should be understood that the specific configuration in which the ion source 27 supplies ions to the vicinity of the air inlet is not important to the basic principles of the embodiments of this disclosure described herein.

[0078] The only difference is the arrangement used to transport ions from the ion generator to the vicinity of the air inlet. Figure 4 The operation of the aerosol supply system 400 shown is essentially the same as... Figure 3 The operation of the aerosol supply system 300 shown is the same, and in fact, it can also be used with... Figure 1 The operation is the same as that of the aerosol supply system 100 shown.

[0079] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view taken through another exemplary aerosol supply system 500 according to certain embodiments of this disclosure. Figure 5 The aerosol supply system 500 shown is with Figure 4 The corresponding elements and features of the aerosol supply system 400 shown are functionally similar and can be understood from them. The corresponding elements and features are identified by the corresponding reference numerals and will not be discussed in detail for the sake of brevity. Figure 5 Aerosol supply system 500 and Figure 4 The difference between the aerosol supply system 400 and the ion guide 27c lies in the function it provides in supplying ions to the vicinity of the air inlet so that the ions are drawn into the air inlet during use (i.e., during the user's inhalation). Figure 4 In this example, the ion guide outlet 27d portion of the ion source 27 is fixed in place relative to the air inlet 28. However, in Figure 5In this example, the ion guide outlet 27d portion of the ion source 27 is movable relative to the air inlet. That is, the position of the ion source that supplies ions to the vicinity of the air inlet is adjustable relative to the air inlet.

[0080] exist Figure 5 In this example, the ion guide 27c is slidably mounted to the housing 12, allowing the ion guide to... Figure 5 The double-headed arrow schematically illustrates the longitudinal reciprocating movement while maintaining communication with the ion outlet opening 27b in the device housing. This allows the relative position of the ion source and the air inlet to be adjusted, for example, to change the ion density near the air inlet. The ion density at the air inlet 28 is lower when the ion guide outlet 27d is further away from the air inlet 28 than when the ion guide outlet 27d is closer to the air inlet 28. Therefore, the ability to move the relative position of the ion source and the air inlet provides the user with a simple way to adjust the amount of ions inhaled into the aerosol supply system during use, thereby allowing the user to adjust the degree of influence of the ions on the inhaled aerosol.

[0081] It should be understood that there are many other ways to adjust the relative positions of the ion source and the air inlet relative to each other. For example, in situations such as Figure 1 In the embodiment shown, the ion source can be simply moved along the device, allowing it to be located at different positions relative to the air inlet. In another... Figure 5 In more similar embodiments, instead of slidably mounting the ion guide channel 27c to the housing 12, the ion guide simply comprises two or more nested tubes that can slide longitudinally to move the position of the ion guide outlet 27d relative to the air inlet by changing the effective length of the ion guide channel 27c. It should also be understood that in other embodiments, the position of the ion source 27 may be fixed relative to the device, and instead, the position of the air inlet 28 may be adjusted, for example, by providing an opening in the air inlet on a movable element. Furthermore, although Figure 5 A method for changing the relative positions of the ion source and the air inlet by longitudinally moving the ion guide outlet is shown; however, in other instances, the air inlet and the ion guide outlet can be moved relative to each other in the azimuth angle to change their spacing. For example, instead Figure 5 In another example, the longitudinally moving ion guide 27c can cause the air inlet 28 to rotate about the central longitudinal axis of the system, thereby changing its distance relative to the ion source.

[0082] The only difference is the arrangement used to transport ions from the ion generator to the vicinity of the air inlet. Figure 5 The operation of the aerosol supply system 500 shown is essentially the same as... Figure 4 The operation of the aerosol supply system 400 shown is the same, and in fact, it can also be used with... Figure 1 The operation of the aerosol supply system 100 shown is the same.

[0083] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view taken through another exemplary aerosol supply system 600 according to certain embodiments of this disclosure. Figure 6 The aerosol supply system 600 shown is with Figure 4 The corresponding elements and features of the aerosol supply system 400 shown are functionally similar and can be understood from them. The corresponding elements and features are identified by the corresponding reference numerals and will not be discussed in detail for the sake of brevity. Figure 6 Aerosol supply system 600 and Figure 4 The main difference between the aerosol supply system 400 and the previous one lies in the different properties of the consumable 4. Figure 4 In one example, consumable 4 includes a housing 42, which includes a liquid reservoir 44 and an aerosol generator 48. However, in Figure 6 In this example, consumable 4 includes a paper-wrapped tobacco stick 43 and a mouthpiece 45. That is to say, although... Figure 4 Examples of this include liquid-based aerosol supply systems (sometimes called e-cigarettes or vaporizer systems), but Figure 6 Examples represent solid-based aerosol supply systems (sometimes called heated non-combustible systems or tobacco heating product systems). The specific configuration of the solid-based consumable 2 is not important to the principles described herein, and generally, the consumable can have any conventional form.

[0084] exist Figure 6 In this example, device 2 includes a receiving section 47 into which consumable 4 is received for use. Similar to common tobacco heating product systems, consumable 4 is tightly fitted within the receiving section 47 to ensure good thermal contact between consumable 4 and the inner wall of the receiving section 47. In this sense, consumable 4 and device 2 are in a loose frictional fit when connected for use. Figure 6 In one example, the aerosol generator 48 includes a heating element arranged around the receiving section 47, such that when the heating element is activated, heat is transferred to the tobacco in the consumable 43. This heats the tobacco to a temperature at which vapor can be released, which the user inhales by inhaling through the mouthpiece 45. Figure 6The air inlet of device 2 (through which air is drawn into system 600 when the user inhales on the consumable) is provided by an annular gap surrounding the consumable at the end of the open end of the receiving part 47. Therefore, when the user inhales on the mouthpiece 45, air is drawn in through the inlet 28, flows along the outside of the tobacco stick 43, and enters the consumable at the end of the tobacco stick 43 located at the closed end of the receiving part 47.

[0085] and Figure 4 The same as the examples, Figure 6 The aerosol supply device 2 includes an ion source 27, which includes an ion generator 27a located in the body of the device 2 and an ion outlet opening 27b aligned with the ion generator to allow ions from the ion generator 27a to enter an ion guide 27c extending from the ion outlet opening 27b to near the end of a receiving section 47. The ion guide 27c terminates at an ion guide outlet 27d, such that ions from the ion generator 27a are transported to near an air inlet, whereby ions are drawn into the device when a user inhales on the consumable.

[0086] Aside from the different nature of consumables Figure 6 The operation of the aerosol supply system 600 shown is essentially the same as... Figure 4 The operation of the aerosol supply system 400 shown is the same, and in fact, it can also be used with... Figure 1 The aerosol supply system 100 shown operates identically. However, in some instances, differences may exist due to the varying nature of the consumables. For example, the aerosol generator of a tobacco heating product may sometimes activate for a relatively longer period than the duration of a single inhalation. Therefore, the aerosol generator may not be activated by inhalation, and consequently, the aerosol supply device may not include an inhalation sensor, and in fact, Figure 6 Examples assume that a suction sensor is not included. Alternatively, the aerosol generator can be activated for a period of several minutes, for example, via user input. In some instances, the ion source can be activated simultaneously with the aerosol generator for the same relatively long duration. However, in other instances, the ion source can be selectively activated at desired times during the aerosol generator's activation period. For example, the ion source can be activated in response to a user pressing a button, or in other instances, the suction sensor can still be set, and the ion source can be activated when the suction sensor detects that the user is inhaling on the system. More generally, in addition to the additional functionality provided by the ion source, Figure 6 The aerosol supply system shown, and indeed all the aerosol supply systems discussed herein, can be operated using largely conventional techniques.

[0087] Therefore, this document describes an aerosol supply device comprising: an aerosol generator for generating an aerosol from an aerosol generating material for inhalation by a user; an air inlet through which air is drawn in during user inhalation to mix with the aerosol generated by the aerosol generator; and an ion source configured to provide ions near the air inlet such that the ions are inhaled through the air inlet during user inhalation.

[0088] This document also describes an aerosol supply system comprising: an aerosol generator for generating an aerosol from an aerosol-generating material for inhalation by a user; an air inlet through which air is drawn in during user inhalation to mix with the aerosol generated by the aerosol generator; and an ion source configured to provide ions near the air inlet such that the ions are drawn in through the air inlet during user inhalation and bind to the aerosol matrix.

[0089] The various embodiments described herein are provided only to aid in understanding and teaching the claimed features. These embodiments are provided as representative examples of implementation and are not exhaustive and / or exclusive. It should be understood that the advantages, implementations, examples, functions, features, structures and / or other aspects described herein should not be considered as limitations on the scope of the invention as defined by the claims or on equivalents of the claims, and other embodiments may be used and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the claimed invention. In addition to those specifically described herein, various embodiments of the invention may suitably include, consist of, or substantially consist of suitable combinations of the disclosed elements, components, features, portions, steps, components, etc., or suitable combinations of the disclosed elements, components, features, portions, steps, components, etc. Furthermore, this disclosure may include other inventions not currently claimed but which may be claimed in the future. The delivery system described herein may be implemented as a combustion-type aerosol supply system, a non-combustion-type aerosol supply system, or an aerosol-free delivery system.

[0090] References

[0091] [1] US2021128776 - IBLE TECH INC.

Claims

1. An aerosol supply system, comprising: Aerosol generators are used to generate aerosols from aerosol-generating materials for users to inhale; as well as An ion source is configured to provide ions near an air inlet, through which air is drawn in during user inhalation to mix with the aerosol generated by the aerosol generator, such that the ions are also drawn in through the air inlet during user inhalation.

2. The aerosol supply system according to claim 1, wherein, The position of the ion source relative to the air inlet is adjustable.

3. The aerosol supply system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The ion source is controllable, enabling the modification of at least one property of the ions provided by the ion source.

4. The aerosol supply system according to claim 3, wherein, The at least one characteristic includes one or more of the following: ion density, ion energy, ion distribution, and ion charge state.

5. The aerosol supply system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The ion source includes an ion generator for generating ions near the air inlet.

6. The aerosol supply system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The ion source includes an ion generator for generating ions and a guide for directing the ions generated by the ion generator to the vicinity of the air inlet.

7. The aerosol supply system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein, The ions include negative ions.

8. The aerosol supply system according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein, The ions include positive ions.

9. The aerosol supply system according to any one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising the aerosol generating material.

10. The aerosol supply system according to claim 9, wherein, The aerosol generating material includes at least one of liquid aerosol generating material, solid aerosol generating material, amorphous solid aerosol generating material, and gel-like aerosol generating material.

11. The aerosol supply system according to claim 9 or 10, wherein, The aerosol supply system includes a controller for controlling the ion source, enabling the modification of at least one characteristic of the ions supplied by the ion source based on at least one property of the aerosol generating material.

12. The aerosol supply system according to claim 11, wherein, The at least one property of the aerosol-generating material includes the flavor characteristics of the aerosol-generating material.

13. The aerosol supply system according to any one of claims 9 to 12, wherein, The aerosol generating material contains active substances.

14. An aerosol supply device, comprising: An ion source is configured to provide ions near an air inlet, through which air is drawn in during user inhalation to mix with an aerosol generated by an aerosol generator, such that the ions are also drawn in through the air inlet during user inhalation.

15. An aerosol supply component, comprising: Aerosol generating components are used to generate aerosols from aerosol generating materials for users to inhale; as well as An ion supply component is configured to provide ions near an air inlet component, wherein air is drawn in through the air inlet component during user inhalation to mix with the aerosol generated by the aerosol generating component, such that the ions are also drawn in through the air inlet component during user inhalation.

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