Flavour stick for an aerosol-generating device

Abstract

The invention relates to a flavor stick (50) for an aerosol-generating device (12), wherein the flavor stick comprises: a housing (54) having at least one orifice (52) and having a connection portion for releasably connecting the flavor stick to the aerosol-generating device; a flavor substrate arranged within the housing; wherein the housing of the flavor stick comprises an adjustment device configured for adjusting an amount of flavor delivered by the flavor stick to an airflow path (26) of the aerosol-generating device, wherein the adjustment device is further configured for adjusting the flavor delivery. The invention also relates to an aerosol-generating system (10) comprising a flavor stick and an aerosol-generating device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a fragrance stick for an aerosol generating apparatus, and to an aerosol generating system comprising an aerosol generating apparatus and a fragrance stick. Background Technology

[0002] One type of aerosol generating device is the electronic cigarette. Electronic cigarettes typically use a liquid aerosol forming matrix that is evaporated to form an aerosol. Heated-to-burn (HNB) devices heat one or more solid aerosol forming matrices to a temperature that causes one or more components of the aerosol forming matrix to evaporate without burning the solid aerosol forming matrix. Additionally, hybrid aerosol generating devices that combine liquid aerosol forming and HNB functions are known. Furthermore, aerosol generating devices in the form of dry powder inhalers are known. Another type of aerosol generating device is a liquid inhaler, in which the liquid matrix is ​​aerosolized primarily through mechanical action. All of these devices (liquid aerosol generating devices or electronic cigarettes, HNB devices, hybrid devices, dry powder inhalers, and liquid inhalers) are aerosol generating devices.

[0003] Outside air is drawn into the aerosol generating device and guided towards the aerosol forming matrix via an airflow path. The outside air mixes with fragrance compounds released from the aerosol forming matrix to form an aerosol. The aerosol can be inhaled by the consumer.

[0004] Various techniques are known for flavoring generated aerosols to enhance the user experience. For example, flavoring agents can be directly applied to the aerosol-forming matrix. However, adding flavor to a solid or liquid matrix can be complex and may require specific equipment to prevent accidental release. In particular, the flavoring material needs to be compatible with the aerosol generation system and, especially, with the matrix. This compatibility may involve the solubility, immobilization, and stability of the flavoring material. Furthermore, for consumables used in heated aerosol generation devices, the flavoring component needs to be thermally stable, while simultaneously being sufficiently volatile to be evaporated.

[0005] Furthermore, the amount of fragrance provided per puff is fixed during the manufacturing process by the fragrance concentration in the aerosol matrix and cannot be adjusted by the user.

[0006] An aerosol generating apparatus is desired in which the fragrance of the generated aerosol can be adjusted by the user. An aerosol generating apparatus is desired in which the fragrance modification of the generated aerosol can be controlled and modified by the user. An aerosol generating apparatus is desired in which user-based fragrance modification of the generated aerosol is a simple aerosol generating apparatus. An aerosol generating apparatus is desired in which the fragrance can be modified by providing a fragrance stick that separates from the solid or liquid aerosol generating material. Summary of the Invention

[0007] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a fragrance stick for an aerosol generating apparatus is provided. The fragrance stick may include a housing having at least one orifice and a connection portion for releasably connecting the fragrance stick to the aerosol generating apparatus. A fragrance matrix may be disposed within the housing. The fragrance stick may include an adjustment device configured to adjust the amount of fragrance delivered by the fragrance stick to the airflow path of the aerosol generating apparatus. The adjustment device may be further configured to adjust the fragrance delivery.

[0008] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a fragrance stick for an aerosol generating apparatus is provided. The fragrance stick includes a housing having at least one orifice and a connection portion for releasably connecting the fragrance stick to the aerosol generating apparatus. A fragrance matrix is ​​disposed within the housing. The fragrance stick includes an adjustment device configured to adjust the amount of fragrance delivered by the fragrance stick to the airflow path of the aerosol generating apparatus. The adjustment device is further configured to adjust the fragrance delivery.

[0009] The adjustment device can be configured to adjust fragrance delivery without interfering with the suction resistance of the airflow path of the aerosol generating device. In other words, the adjustment device is configured such that the overall suction resistance of the airflow path of the aerosol generating device remains substantially constant when adjusting fragrance delivery.

[0010] The present invention advantageously provides a flavor stick that can be used with any type of aerosol generating device. In particular, the flavor stick can be used with any aerosol generating device, regardless of the aerosolization mechanism employed.

[0011] The connecting portion of the fragrance stick is configured to allow the fragrance stick to be connected to the aerosol generating device. The connecting portion is further configured such that when the fragrance stick is connected to the aerosol generating device, a fluid connection is established between the orifice of the fragrance stick and the airflow channel of the aerosol generating device.

[0012] The fragrance stick's housing may include a single orifice. The fragrance stick may be configured such that the orifice can come into fluid contact with the airflow channel of the aerosol generating device. Preferably, the orifice of the fragrance stick contacts the airflow channel without any modification to the cross-section of the airflow channel. By not modifying the cross-section of the airflow channel, the suction resistance of the airflow channel remains substantially constant. In this way, fragrance can be released into the airflow channel without altering the suction resistance of the airflow channel.

[0013] The fragrance stick may also include an adjustment mechanism that allows for changing the size of the orifice. The adjustment mechanism may be provided in the form of a sliding baffle. The adjustment mechanism can be configured to allow the user to adjust the amount of fragrance supplied by the fragrance stick to the airflow passing through the orifice.

[0014] The adjustment mechanism can be configured to allow the user to turn the fragrance delivery to the airflow channel on and off at any time. The adjustment mechanism can also be configured to allow the user to continuously adjust the fragrance delivery to the airflow channel from zero to the maximum amount that can be provided by the fragrance stick.

[0015] Fragrance delivery can be adjusted at any time. Adjustments can be made before, during, or after the user experience. Fragrance levels can be adjusted during the user experience without stopping or interrupting it.

[0016] Because the aerosol generation and the flavoring of the gas stream or aerosol flow are effectively separated from each other, some of the problems associated with the generation of flavoring aerosols encountered in existing technology devices are overcome.

[0017] The fragrance stick may also include multiple orifices. The orifices can be arranged such that airflow is guided through them, and the airflow may carry volatile components from the fragrance matrix.

[0018] The fragrance stick may include at least two orifices. The fragrance stick may be shaped to define an airflow channel through the stick. The fragrance stick may be configured such that when the fragrance stick is connected to an aerosol generating device, at least a portion of the airflow path of the aerosol generating device is guided through the fragrance stick.

[0019] The shell of the fragrance stick can be cylindrical, wherein the inner wall divides the internal volume of the stick into at least two compartments. The cylindrical shell of the fragrance stick can have any desired cross-sectional shape. For example, the cylindrical shell of the fragrance stick can be circular, elliptical, rectangular, or polygonal.

[0020] The inner wall of the fragrance stick's shell can extend in the longitudinal direction of the stick to define compartments arranged parallel to each other in the internal volume of the fragrance stick.

[0021] At least one compartment in the aerosol generating device may be provided with a fragrance matrix. Since at least a portion of the airflow path of the aerosol generating device is guided through the fragrance rod, the passing airflow may entrain volatile components from the fragrance matrix.

[0022] Each compartment can be configured to have the same RTD (Resistant Tolerance). By configuring the compartments to have the same RTD, airflow can be directed through any of these compartments without significantly altering the overall RTD of the airflow path.

[0023] The compartment can be substantially hollow. The RTD of such a hollow compartment is basically determined by the cross-section of the compartment.

[0024] The compartments can be configured to include a porous material through which airflow is guided. The compartments can also be configured to include the same porous material, such that each compartment in the compartment has the same RTD (Residual Temperature Dimension).

[0025] In embodiments where the fragrance stick's housing defines a compartment through which an airflow path is guided, the adjustment device may include a disc-shaped cap with an opening. The disc-shaped cap may be mounted to an end face of the cylindrical housing of the fragrance stick. The disc-shaped cap may have the same cross-section as the fragrance stick's housing. In a preferred embodiment, the fragrance stick's housing and the disc-shaped cap may have corresponding circular cross-sections.

[0026] The opening of the disc-shaped cap can be smaller than the cross-section of the compartment. In this way, the size of the opening of the disc-shaped cap can essentially determine the RTD of the flavor stick.

[0027] The disc-shaped cap can be rotatably mounted to the end face of the cylindrical shell of the fragrance stick. The disc-shaped cap is preferably aligned with the cylindrical shell of the fragrance stick, such that the opening creates an airflow into the compartments within the internal volume of the fragrance stick.

[0028] By rotating the disc-shaped cover, the opening can be positioned to allow airflow to pass completely through one of the compartments, or to allow partial airflow through two adjacent compartments. The user can adjust the rotation of the disc-shaped cover at any time. Adjusting the rotation of the disc-shaped cover allows for adjustment of the airflow distribution through adjacent compartments. Specifically, the opening can be positioned to adjust the airflow through compartments containing the fragrance matrix. Therefore, by rotating the disc-shaped cover, the fragrance delivery to the airflow through the compartments can be modified. Since all compartments have substantially the same RTD, the overall RTD remains constant, regardless of the rotational position of the disc-shaped cover.

[0029] The opening in the disc-shaped cap can have any desired shape and size. In particular, the size of the opening in the disc-shaped cap can be larger or smaller than the cross-section of the compartments defined in the fragrance stick. The size of the opening can have any desired shape, as long as it allows for modification of the airflow distribution through the individual compartments when the disc-shaped cap is rotated, and thus modification of the fragrance delivery of the airflow toward the device.

[0030] In another embodiment, the fragrance stick may include a housing defining an internal compartment in which a fragrance coating film is disposed. The fragrance coating film may be wound around a rotatable shaft. The rotatable shaft may extend along the longitudinal axis of the cylindrical housing of the fragrance stick.

[0031] By rotating the rotatable shaft, the fragrance coating film can be wound onto or unwound from the shaft. An unfolding element can be provided to facilitate unfolding the unwound portion of the fragrance coating film away from the rotatable shaft during unwinding.

[0032] When fully wound, the fragrance-coated film densely fills the rotatable axis, and only a small fraction of the airflow through the fragrance stick passes along the surface of the fragrance film. Therefore, fragrance delivery is reduced in this configuration.

[0033] The more the fragrance coating is unwound from the rotatable shaft, the more the surface of the fragrance coating comes into contact with the passing airflow, and the higher the fragrance delivery of the fragrance coating to the passing airflow.

[0034] The RTD of the compartment, including the fragrance-coated film, is essentially defined by the unobstructed cross-section through the compartment. This cross-section is determined by the cross-section of the compartment minus the cross-section of the fragrance-coated film's airflow-facing edge. The cross-section of the airflow-facing edge of the fragrance-coated film remains constant, regardless of whether the fragrance-coated film is wound around or unwound from the rotatable shaft. Therefore, by winding and unwinding the fragrance-coated film from the rotatable shaft, the fragrance delivery of the fragrance stick within the compartment can be adjusted while the overall RTD through the compartment remains constant.

[0035] According to another aspect, the present invention relates to an aerosol generation system, the aerosol generation system comprising an aerosol generation device and a flavoring stick as described above.

[0036] The flavoring stick can be configured to connect to the air inlet of the aerosol generating device. The flavoring stick can also be configured to connect near the mouthpiece of the aerosol generating device. Finally, the flavoring stick can be configured to connect within the airflow channel defined between the air inlet and the mouthpiece of the aerosol generating device.

[0037] The aerosol generating device may include a flavoring stick with a separate air inlet for generating flavored air. The flavored air can be mixed with an aerosol being delivered in an airflow channel of the aerosol generating device. The mixture of aerosol and flavored air can be delivered via the airflow channel toward a mouthpiece of the aerosol generating device. A user inhaling at the mouthpiece can inhale the flavored aerosol.

[0038] The aerosol generating device may include a separate airflow passage configured to deliver flavored air from the flavoring stick toward the mouthpiece. The flavored air and aerosol do not combine before they reach the mouthpiece. The aerosol and flavored air mixed in the mouthpiece can then be inhaled by a user who is inhaling through the mouthpiece.

[0039] The desired aerosolization conditions can be obtained by selecting the location where the flavored air and aerosol combine.

[0040] Aerosol generating devices may also be equipped with additional ventilation systems. These systems are typically located downstream of the aerosol generating unit. Introducing cool outside air into the airflow path enhances aerosol formation.

[0041] In embodiments that include a ventilation device, the flavoring stick may be located at different positions relative to the ventilation device. The position of the flavoring stick determines at what point in the aerosol formation process the flavored air is introduced into the airflow path.

[0042] Flavoring sticks can be located upstream of the ventilation system. In this configuration, flavored air is introduced in the early stages of aerosol formation. The introduction of flavored air can influence aerosol formation.

[0043] The flavoring stick can be located downstream of the ventilation system. In this configuration, flavored air is introduced during the later stages of aerosol formation. At this point, aerosol formation may be almost complete, and further introduction of flavored air may only slightly affect aerosol formation.

[0044] The fragrance stick can also be placed in the same location as the ventilation device.

[0045] By connecting a fragrance stick to an aerosol generating device, such that the orifice of the fragrance stick comes into fluid contact with the airflow path through the aerosol generating device, the fragrance of the fragrance stick can be delivered to the air and / or aerosol transported along the airflow path. Air flavoring occurs independently of aerosol generation. Therefore, in the system of the present invention, flavoring can be performed in a more flexible manner because fewer restrictions are imposed compared to aerosol generating systems in which aerosol generation and aerosol flavoring are performed simultaneously.

[0046] The fragrance stick can be configured as described above.

[0047] On the other hand, the fragrance stick can be provided in the form of a frame with lateral orifices. The frame can be configured to hold and surround the fragrance film. The aerosol generating device may include a slot for receiving the frame-shaped fragrance stick. The slot can be positioned adjacent to the airflow channel of the aerosol generating device. When received in the slot, the frame can be positioned in a first position in which the lateral orifices of the frame are not in fluid contact with the airflow channel. The frame can be configured to be movable in the slot to a second position in which fluid contact is established between the lateral orifices of the frame and the airflow channel.

[0048] The slot can extend parallel to the airflow channel of the device. When the frame is moved within the slot, the lateral orifices of the frame come into fluid contact with the airflow channel. By moving the frame within the slot, a portion of the orifice is exposed to the airflow channel of the device. The slot can be configured such that the entire lateral orifice of the frame is exposed to the airflow channel. By adjusting the portion of the orifice exposed to the airflow channel, the fragrance delivery of the frame-shaped fragrance stick to the airflow can be adjusted.

[0049] In embodiments where the fragrance stick includes a housing having an orifice at either end, and where at least a portion of the airflow path of the aerosol generating device is guided through the fragrance stick, an adjustment device may also be configured as part of the device. For example, the device may be configured to receive the fragrance stick such that the open end of the airflow channel is in fluid communication with the orifice of the fragrance stick. The open end of the airflow channel may function in the same manner as the opening of the disc-shaped cap described above.

[0050] By rotating the entire fragrance stick inside the device relative to the open end of the airflow channel, the airflow can be adjusted to be guided through one or more of the internal compartments of the fragrance stick.

[0051] 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 or aerosol generating article relative to the direction in which it is drawn by a user during use of the aerosol generating device or aerosol generating article.

[0052] As used herein, an "aerosol generating apparatus" relates to an apparatus that interacts with an aerosol-forming matrix to generate aerosols. The aerosol-forming matrix may be part of an aerosol-generating article. The aerosol generating apparatus may be an apparatus that interacts with the aerosol-forming matrix of the aerosol-generating article to generate aerosols that can be directly inhaled into the user's lungs through the user's mouth. The aerosol generating apparatus may be a retainer. The aerosol generating apparatus may include a housing, an electrical system, a power supply, a heating chamber, and a heating element.

[0053] The aerosol generating device can have a length between 86 mm and 130 mm.

[0054] 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 can conveniently be part of an aerosol-generating article.

[0055] The aerosol forming matrix can be a solid aerosol forming matrix. It can include both solid and liquid components. The aerosol forming matrix can also be provided in the form of a gel or amorphous solid. The aerosol forming matrix can include tobacco-containing material containing volatile tobacco flavor compounds released from the matrix upon heating. The aerosol forming matrix can contain plant-based or non-plant-based materials. The aerosol forming matrix can contain non-tobacco materials. The aerosol forming matrix can contain nicotine. The aerosol forming matrix may be nicotine-free. 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.

[0056] 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 aroma characteristics of aerosols generated during the heating of aerosol-generating articles. Specifically, the process of manufacturing homogenized tobacco involves grinding tobacco leaves, which more effectively releases nicotine and aroma upon heating.

[0057] Aerosol-generating articles can be substantially cylindrical in shape. Aerosol-generating articles can be substantially elongated. Aerosol-generating articles can have a length and a perimeter substantially perpendicular to that length. Aerosol-generating articles can be substantially strip-shaped. Aerosol-forming matrices can be substantially cylindrical in shape. Aerosol-forming matrices can be substantially elongated. Aerosol-forming matrices can also have a length and a perimeter substantially perpendicular to that length. Aerosol-forming matrices can be substantially strip-shaped.

[0058] The aerosol-generating article may have an overall length between 55 mm and 110 mm, preferably between 60 mm and 90 mm. The aerosol-generating article may have an outer diameter between 4.5 mm and 17 mm, preferably between 6 mm and 9 mm. The aerosol-generating article may include a filter tip section. The filter tip section may be located at the downstream end of the aerosol-generating article. The filter tip section may be a cellulose acetate filter tip section. In one embodiment, the length of the filter tip section is approximately 7 mm, but its length may be between approximately 5 mm and approximately 10 mm.

[0059] Aerosol-generating articles may include a separation between the aerosol-forming matrix and the filter tip section. This separation may be approximately 18 mm, but can range from 5 mm to 25 mm.

[0060] Aerosol-generating articles may include multiple components, including one or more of a mouthpiece, spacer, hollow acetate tube, sensory medium rod, and front rod. All components may be connected to each other by an outer packaging. Aerosol-generating articles may have a cylindrical shape.

[0061] Aerosol-generating articles can be generally flat. An aerosol-generating article can have a thickness defined by a separation between opposing first and second main surfaces of the aerosol-generating article, each of which is planar.

[0062] Aerosol-generated products can be defined with a generally parallelepiped outline.

[0063] Aerosol-generated products can be roughly rectangular in plan view.

[0064] Aerosol-generating articles may include one or more sensory medium portions. At least one of the sensory medium portions may have a different material composition than the other portions.

[0065] In examples where an aerosol-generating article comprises multiple sensory medium portions, the portions are arranged continuously along a length direction. This length direction may correspond to the length direction of the aerosol-generating article. Each portion may be spatially separate from the other portions.

[0066] The aerosol-generated article may have length, width, and thickness. Preferably, the width-to-thickness ratio is greater than 5, or greater than 10, or greater than 20, or greater than 40. The thinner the aerosol-generated article, the easier it may be to achieve uniform heating through the sensory medium thickness of the aerosol-generated article when heat is applied to it.

[0067] The thickness of the aerosol-generated article is preferably 1 mm or less, more preferably 0.75 mm or less, or even more preferably 0.5 mm or less. The thickness of the aerosol-generated article may be greater than 0.05 mm or greater than 0.1 mm.

[0068] The length of the aerosol-generated article can be greater than 15 mm, or preferably in the range of 15 mm to 100 mm, or preferably in the range of 15 mm to 75 mm, or preferably in the range of 15 mm to 65 mm, or preferably in the range of 20 mm to 65 mm, or preferably in the range of 28 mm to 62 mm, or preferably in the range of 28 mm to 48 mm, or preferably in the range of 35 mm to 48 mm.

[0069] The width of the aerosol-generated article may be greater than 5 mm, or preferably in the range of 5 mm to 40 mm, or preferably in the range of 5 mm to 31 mm, or preferably in the range of 8 mm to 31 mm, or preferably in the range of 11 mm to 25 mm.

[0070] 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. Power may be supplied continuously to the heating element after the aerosol generating apparatus is activated, or it may be supplied intermittently, such as based on inlet-outlet 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.

[0071] 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 such as a lithium-cobalt, lithium-iron-phosphate, lithium titanate, or 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 use experiences; for example, the power source may have sufficient capacity to continuously generate aerosols for periods 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.

[0072] 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.

[0073] Example 1. A fragrance stick for an aerosol generating apparatus, wherein the fragrance stick comprises: The housing has at least one opening and a connection portion for releasably connecting the fragrance stick to the aerosol generating device. Fragrance matrix, the fragrance matrix being disposed within the housing, The fragrance stick includes an adjustment device configured to adjust the amount of fragrance along the airflow path from the fragrance stick to the aerosol generating device, wherein the adjustment device is further configured to adjust the fragrance delivery.

[0074] Example 2. The fragrance stick according to Example 1, wherein the adjustment device is configured to adjust the suction resistance of the fragrance delivery without interfering with the airflow path of the aerosol generating device.

[0075] Example 3. A fragrance stick according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the fragrance stick includes an opening.

[0076] Example 4. A fragrance stick according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the fragrance stick is configured such that the orifice can be in fluid contact with the airflow channel of the aerosol generating device.

[0077] Example 5. A fragrance stick according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the adjustment mechanism allows the size of the orifice to be changed.

[0078] Example 6. A fragrance stick according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the adjustment mechanism includes a sliding baffle.

[0079] Example 7. A fragrance stick according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the fragrance stick includes two or more openings.

[0080] Example 8. A fragrance stick according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the fragrance stick is shaped to define an airflow channel through the stick.

[0081] Example 9. A fragrance stick according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the shell of the fragrance stick has a cylindrical shape, wherein the inner wall divides the internal volume of the stick into at least two compartments.

[0082] Example 10. A fragrance stick according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the inner wall of the housing of the fragrance stick extends in the longitudinal direction of the fragrance stick to define parallel compartments.

[0083] Example 11. A fragrance stick according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the at least one compartment is provided with a fragrance matrix.

[0084] Example 12. A flavoring bar according to any of the preceding examples, wherein each compartment has the same RTD.

[0085] Example 13. A fragrance stick according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the compartment comprises a porous material having the same porosity.

[0086] Example 14. A fragrance stick according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the adjusting device includes a disc-shaped cap having an opening, wherein the disc-shaped cap is mounted to the end face of the cylindrical housing of the fragrance stick.

[0087] Example 15. A fragrance stick according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the size of the opening is smaller than the cross-section of the compartment.

[0088] Example 16. A fragrance stick according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the disc-shaped cap is rotatably mounted to the end face of the cylindrical housing of the fragrance stick.

[0089] Example 17. A fragrance stick according to any of the preceding examples, wherein by rotating the disc-shaped cap, the opening can be positioned to allow airflow to pass completely through a compartment or to allow partial airflow to pass through two adjacent compartments.

[0090] Example 18. A fragrance stick according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the adjusting device includes a fragrance coating film.

[0091] Example 19. A fragrance stick according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the fragrance coating film is wound around a rotatable shaft.

[0092] Example 20. A fragrance stick according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the rotatable shaft extends along the longitudinal axis of the cylindrical housing of the fragrance stick.

[0093] Example 21. A fragrance stick according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the fragrance coating film can be wound onto or unwound from the rotatable shaft by rotating the shaft.

[0094] Example 22. A fragrance stick according to any of the preceding examples, wherein a unfolding element is provided, the unfolding element facilitating the unfolding of the unwound portion of the fragrance coating film away from the rotatable axis.

[0095] Example 23. An aerosol generation system, comprising an aerosol generation device and a flavoring stick according to any of the foregoing examples.

[0096] Example 24. An aerosol generating system according to Example 23, wherein the flavoring stick is configured to be connected to an air inlet, near the mouthpiece, or in an airflow channel defined between the air inlet of the aerosol generating device and the mouthpiece.

[0097] Example 25. An aerosol generation system according to any one of Examples 23 and 24, wherein the fragrance stick is configured as a frame with lateral orifices.

[0098] Example 26. An aerosol generating system according to any one of Examples 23 to 25, wherein the apparatus includes a groove for receiving a frame-shaped aroma stick.

[0099] Example 27. An aerosol generation system according to any one of Examples 23 to 26, wherein the frame is movable within a groove extending parallel to the airflow channel of the aerosol generation device.

[0100] Example 28. An aerosol generation system according to any one of Examples 23 to 27, wherein by moving the frame, at least a portion of the orifice is exposed to the airflow passage of the device.

[0101] The features described with respect to one embodiment can also be applied to other embodiments of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0102] The invention will be further described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 Different types of aerosol generation systems are shown; Figure 2 A schematic embodiment of the fragrance stick is shown; Figure 3 An aerosol generation system with a frame-shaped aroma bar is shown; Figure 4It shows Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of the system; Figure 5 An embodiment of a fragrance bar with two compartments is shown; Figure 6 An embodiment of a fragrance bar with four compartments is shown; Figure 7 A fragrance bar with a rotatable shaft and a fragrance-coated film is shown; Figure 8 Possible locations for attaching the fragrance stick to the aerosol generating device are shown; Figure 9 Another embodiment of an aerosol generating apparatus with a flavoring bar is shown; and Figure 10 An aerosol generating device with a fragrance stick and a ventilation device is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0103] exist Figure 1 The image depicts various types of aerosol generation systems 10. In the left-hand side view, a so-called heated non-combustible aerosol generation system is depicted. The aerosol generation system 10 includes an aerosol generation device 12 having a cavity 14 for receiving an aerosol generation article 16. The aerosol generation article 16 is provided in the form of a rod-shaped consumable, having a rod of a solid aerosol generation matrix 18. The cavity 14 forms a heated chamber heated by an external heating system 20. The heating system 20 heats the inserted consumable. External air 22 is drawn into the airflow path 26 of the aerosol generation device 12 via an air inlet 24. The external air 22 passes through the consumable, where it carries heated volatile components to form an aerosol 30. The aerosol 30 can be inhaled by a consumer who draws air at the inserted consumable.

[0104] exist Figure 1 In the intermediate view, the aerosol generating device 12 has a reservoir 32 that holds a certain amount of liquid aerosol generating matrix 18. The liquid matrix 18 is in contact with wicking material 34 leading to a grid 36, where it is aerosolized. The grid 36 can be a heated grid for evaporating the liquid matrix. The grid 36 can also be a vibrating grid that aerosolizes the liquid matrix by mechanical action. The vibrating grid can be ultrasonically excited. External air 22 is drawn into the airflow path 26 of the aerosol generating device 12 via the device air inlet 24. The external air 22 is guided across the grid 36, where it carries aerosolized components to form aerosol 30. The aerosol 30 can be inhaled by a consumer who inhales through the mouthpiece 38 of the aerosol generating device 12.

[0105] exist Figure 1On the right-hand side, an aerosol generating device 12 is shown, comprising a cavity 14 into which an aerosol generating article 16 is inserted. The aerosol generating article 16 includes a tube 40 having a capsule 42 containing an aerosol generating matrix 18 in the form of dry powder. The aerosol generating device 12 includes a piercing element 44 for piercing the capsule 42. External air 22 is drawn into the airflow path 26 of the aerosol generating device 12 via an air inlet 24. The external air 22 is directed through a consumable, where it carries the dry powder to form an aerosol 30. The aerosol 30 can be inhaled by a consumer who draws air at the inserted consumable.

[0106] Figure 2 A schematic embodiment of a fragrance stick 50 including a single orifice 52 is shown. The fragrance stick 50 includes a cylindrical housing 54 and a fragrance matrix 56 disposed within the housing 54. The housing 54 includes a connection means (not shown) that allows the fragrance stick 50 to be connected to an aerosol generating device. The fragrance stick 50 is connected in such a manner that the orifice 52 is in fluid communication with the airflow path of the aerosol generating device. The bottom side 58 of the housing 54 is closed, such that no airflow can pass through the bottom side 58 of the housing 54.

[0107] exist Figure 2 On the right-hand side, a side sectional view of the fragrance stick 50 is depicted. This view shows how the fragrance component 57 is introduced into the airflow 60 passing through the airflow path of the device. The fragrance stick 50 includes an adjustment mechanism in the form of a sliding baffle 62, which allows the opening size of the orifice 52 to be changed. In this way, the consumer can modify the amount of fragrance delivered to the passing airflow 60 without interfering with the suction resistance encountered by the airflow 60.

[0108] exist Figure 3 Another embodiment of an aerosol generation system, including a fragrance stick 50 having only one orifice 52, is schematically depicted.

[0109] The fragrance stick 50 is provided in the form of a thin frame 51 with a large opening 52. The frame 51 holds the film of the fragrance matrix 56. The frame 51 also has a small knob 59 that can be gripped by the consumer's hand.

[0110] As in Figure 3 Depicted in the left-hand side view, the frame 51 is configured to be inserted into a slot 64 of the aerosol generating device 12. The slot 64 is located next to the air inlet 24 of the airflow path 26 of the aerosol generating device 12. The inserted frame 51 can slide along the wall of the air inlet 24 and parallel to the airflow path 26.

[0111] The more the frame 51 slides to the right side, the greater the portion of the opening 52 of the frame 51 exposed to the airflow 60 passing through the airflow channel 26. The fragrance components are entrained by the airflow 60 and delivered to the cavity 14 of the aerosol generating device 12.

[0112] exist Figure 4 The top and bottom views depict the path along Figure 3 A cross-sectional view along line A-A' and along line B-B'. Figure 4 The upper view depicted in the figure illustrates various possibilities for how the frame can be positioned within slot 64. Figure 4 In the left-hand side view, the frame 51 is positioned as far to the left of the slot 64 as possible so that the opening 52 of the frame 51 is not exposed to the airflow path 26 (left-hand side view).

[0113] exist Figure 4 In the intermediate view, frame 51 is positioned in the middle, where orifice 52 is partially exposed to airflow path 26. In this configuration, the frame is partially exposed to airflow path 26, such that at least some of the volatile components 57 are guided through the external air entrainment of frame 51.

[0114] exist Figure 4 In the right-hand side view, frame 51 is positioned as far as possible to the right side of slot 64 by moving the frame via knob 59. In this position, the entire orifice 52 is exposed to the airflow path 26. The user can position the frame at any desired location via knob 59 to continuously adjust the intensity of fragrance delivery to the airflow path 26.

[0115] exist Figure 4 In the two lower views, the path along Figure 3 The two views show the cross-sectional view along line B-B'. These views illustrate that the effective cross-section of the airflow path 26 is independent of the actual position of the frame 51 within the slot 64. Regardless of whether the frame 51 is positioned such that the orifice 52 is exposed to the airflow path 26, the minimum cross-section of the airflow path 26 is located further downstream of the frame 51. Therefore, the RTD of the airflow path 26 is defined by this minimum cross-section, which remains constant regardless of the position of the frame 51.

[0116] exist Figure 5 Another embodiment of the fragrance stick 50 is schematically depicted. In this embodiment, the intensity of fragrance delivery by the fragrance stick 50 can be adjusted without changing the RTD of the fragrance stick 50.

[0117] Figure 5The top illustration shows an exploded view of a flavoring stick 50 having a cylindrical shell 54 with orifices 52, 53 at either end. The cylindrical shell 54 is divided into two compartments 70, 72 by a central wall 74. A porous flavoring matrix 76 is disposed in compartment 70. An unflavored porous matrix 78 is disposed in the other compartment 72. The two porous matrices 76, 78 have the same RTD. The upper end of the flavoring stick 50 is sealed by a rotatable disc cap 80 with an opening 82. The cross-section of the opening 82 is smaller than the open cross-section of each compartment in compartments 70, 72. By rotating the disc cap 80, the opening 82 allows incoming air 22 to flow through the flavored porous matrix 76, or through the unflavored porous matrix 78, or through a combination thereof. Because the two compartments have the same RTD, the airflow distribution between the two compartments can be adjusted without changing the RTD of the flavoring stick. In practice, the RTD is primarily defined by the size of the opening 82 and the porosity of the two matrices 76, 78. Since opening 82 and substrates 76 and 78 remain unchanged, the resulting RTD remains constant.

[0118] exist Figure 5 The two lower diagrams depict two different angular positions of the disc-shaped lid 80. In the left-hand side view, the disc-shaped lid 80 is rotated such that approximately 50% of the airflow is directed through the compartment 70 holding the flavoring matrix 76. In the right-hand side view, the disc-shaped lid 80 is rotated such that no airflow is directed through the compartment 70 holding the flavoring matrix 76. Therefore, all incoming air is directed through the compartment 72, which holds only the unflavored porous matrix 78. Thus, in this case, no aroma is delivered to the airflow via the flavoring stick 50.

[0119] exist Figure 6 The illustration shows a flavoring stick 50 having four compartments 70, 71, 72, and 73 separated by walls 74. In each compartment 70, 71, 72, and 73, different porous flavoring substrates 76 and 77 and an empty porous substrate 78 are provided. Again, all substrates have the same RTD (Residual Temperature Dimension). The flavoring stick 50 is closed at the top by a rotatable disc-shaped cap 80, which has openings 82 for guiding incoming air 22 into the respective compartments.

[0120] The illustration on the right-hand side shows how the consumer can guide the airflow 60 through one or more compartments 70, 71, 72, 73 by rotating the disc-shaped cover 82. In this way, no fragrance, one fragrance, or two different fragrances can be delivered to the airflow 60.

[0121] exist Figure 7 Another embodiment of the fragrance stick 50 is depicted. The fragrance stick 50 again has a cylindrical housing 54 through which an airflow 60 is guided. The fragrance stick 50 has a mechanical adjustment device for increasing or decreasing the surface area of ​​the fragrance coating film 90 exposed to the passing airflow 60.

[0122] exist Figure 7 The top view shows a side view of the fragrance stick 50. A rotatable shaft 92 is provided at the center of the fragrance stick 50, and the fragrance coating film 90 is wound around the rotatable shaft.

[0123] A rotatable shaft 92 extends along the longitudinal axis of the fragrance rod 50 and is connected to the upper edge of the fragrance rod 50 via an arm 94. By rotating the shaft 92 counterclockwise within the fragrance rod 50, the fragrance coating film 90 unwinds from the rotatable shaft 92. An unfolding element 96 is provided at the bottom of the fragrance rod 50 to facilitate unfolding the unwound portion of the fragrance coating film 90 away from the rotatable shaft 92. By rotating the rotatable shaft 92 in the opposite direction, the fragrance coating film 90 winds back onto the rotatable shaft 92. An airflow 60 is directed through the fragrance rod 50 and over the fragrance coating film 90. Volatile components released from the fragrance coating film 90 are entrained in the airflow 60.

[0124] The bottom illustration illustrates the operating principle of this embodiment of the fragrance stick 50. In the left-hand side view, the fragrance coating film 90 is completely wound around the rotatable shaft 92. Therefore, the fragrance coating film 90 densely fills the central region 98 of the fragrance stick 50. Compared to the remaining empty internal volume of the fragrance stick 50, the densely filled fragrance film 90 has a relatively high RTD (Residual Temperature Dimension). Therefore, only a small portion of the passing airflow 60 is guided along the surface of the fragrance coating film 90. Only a small amount, or none at all, of fragrance components released from the fragrance coating film 90 is carried into the passing air 60.

[0125] In the right-hand side view, the fragrance coating film 90 has been completely unwound from the rotatable shaft 92. The passing airflow 60 is guided between the spirally arranged layers of the fragrance coating film 90. Therefore, the passing airflow 60 has more effective contact with the surface of the fragrance coating film 90. The fragrance delivery level to the passing airflow 60 is increased. Although the fragrance delivery level can be adjusted by rotating the rotatable shaft 92 and by winding and unwinding the fragrance coating film 90, the overall RTD of the fragrance stick 50 remains constant. The RTD is primarily defined by the free cross-section of the internal volume of the fragrance stick 50. This cross-section is determined by the cross-section of the compartment minus the cross-section of the fragrance coating film 90 facing the upstream edge of the airflow 60. The cross-section of the edge of the fragrance coating film 90 facing the airflow 60 remains unchanged, regardless of whether the fragrance coating film 90 is wound around or unwound from the rotatable shaft 92. Therefore, by winding and unwinding the fragrance coating film 90 from the rotatable shaft 92, the fragrance delivery of the compartments of the fragrance stick 50 can be adjusted while the overall RTD of the internal volume of the fragrance stick 50 remains constant.

[0126] exist Figure 8 The text describes different possible configurations for connecting the fragrance stick 50 to the aerosol generating device 12.

[0127] exist Figure 8 In the top left view, the fragrance stick 50 is connected to the exterior of the aerosol generating device 12. More specifically, the fragrance stick 50 is connected to the air inlet at the mouthpiece portion 38 of the aerosol generating device 12. In this embodiment, the fragrance stick 50 is positioned downstream of the heating portion of the aerosol generating device 12. Rotating a portion of the fragrance stick 50 to change the fragrance delivery intensity is easy for the user and can even be done during the user experience. However, the fragrance stick 50 protrudes slightly from the mouthpiece portion 38 of the aerosol generating device 12.

[0128] exist Figure 8 In the top right view, the fragrance stick 50 is partially inserted into the air inlet 24 of the aerosol generating device 12. If the device includes a heating section, the fragrance stick is positioned upstream of the heating section of the aerosol generating device 12. A portion of the fragrance stick protrudes from the aerosol generating device, allowing the user to adjust the fragrance intensity during the user experience.

[0129] The bottom illustration shows an aerosol generating device 12, which must be opened to insert the fragrance stick 50 adjacent to the upstream of the heating chamber 14. In this configuration, the fragrance stick 50 is fully inserted into the aerosol generating device 12, and the level of the fragrance stick 50 can be adjusted before or after the user experience.

[0130] exist Figure 9 Another illustrative embodiment of the aerosol generating apparatus 12 is shown. Figure 9 The device 12 depicted in the top view includes a body 13, a mouthpiece 38, and a flavoring stick 50 integrated into the housing of the body 13 of the aerosol generating device 12. In this embodiment, the body 13 defines two channels 100 and 102. Channel 100 is used solely for delivering aerosol 104 toward the mouthpiece 38 of the device 12. The second channel 102 is configured to deliver flavored air 106 toward the mouthpiece 38 of the device 12. The flavored air 106 is obtained by guiding outside air 108 through the flavoring stick 50 into the channel 102. The aerosol 104 and the flavored air 106 are combined in the mouthpiece 38, and the mixture of aerosol 104 and flavored air 106 can be inhaled by a user who inhales at the mouthpiece 38.

[0131] exist Figure 9 The device 12 depicted in the lower view includes a body 13, a mouthpiece 38, and a flavoring stick 50 integrated into the housing of the body 13 of the aerosol generating device 12. In this embodiment, the body 13 defines only a single channel 110. Within the channel 110, aerosol 104 is combined with flavored air 106.

[0132] The mixture of aerosol 104 and flavored air 106 is delivered toward mouthpiece 38 via channel 110 and can be inhaled by a user who is inhaling at mouthpiece 38.

[0133] exist Figure 10 The illustration shows a schematic embodiment of an aerosol generating apparatus 12 with a ventilation device 112. Each device in the depicted apparatus 12 includes a body 13 with an aerosol generating unit 114 at its distal end and a nozzle 38 at its proximal end. Aerosol 104 generated by the aerosol generating unit 114 at the distal end of the body 13 is conveyed through a channel 100 toward the nozzle 38 of the apparatus 12. The body 13 includes a ventilation device 112 in the form of a plurality of circumferentially distributed ventilation holes. The ventilation device 112 allows outside air to circulate into the channel 100. The outside air is used to cool the aerosol 104 and thereby enhance aerosol formation.

[0134] The fragrance stick 50 is integrated into the housing of the main body 13 of the aerosol generating device 12. (The last sentence appears to be incomplete and unrelated to the preceding text.) Figure 9 Similarly, the flavoring stick is used to flavor the outside air 108 and deliver flavored air 106 to the airflow channel 100 in the device 12. Figure 10 The three embodiments depicted differ in the position of the fragrance stick 50 relative to the ventilation device 112.

[0135] exist Figure 10 In the top view, the fragrance stick 50 is located upstream of the ventilation device 112. More specifically, the fragrance stick 50 is located between the aerosol generating unit 114 and the ventilation device 112.

[0136] exist Figure 10 In the center view, the fragrance stick 50 is located downstream of the ventilation device 112. More specifically, the fragrance stick 50 is located between the ventilation device 112 and the mouthpiece 38.

[0137] exist Figure 10 In the lower view, the flavoring stick 50 is located at the same longitudinal position as the ventilation device 112. In this embodiment, cool outside air and flavoring air 106 are mixed simultaneously with aerosol 104 conveyed in the channel 100.

Claims

1. A fragrance stick for an aerosol generating apparatus, wherein the fragrance stick comprises: The housing has at least one opening and a connection portion for releasably connecting the fragrance stick to the aerosol generating device. Fragrance matrix, the fragrance matrix being disposed within the housing, The fragrance stick includes an adjustment device configured to adjust the amount of fragrance delivered by the fragrance stick to the airflow path of the aerosol generating device, wherein the adjustment device is further configured to adjust the fragrance delivery without interfering with the suction resistance of the airflow path of the aerosol generating device.

2. The fragrance stick according to claim 1, wherein the fragrance stick is configured such that the orifice can be in fluid contact with the airflow channel of the aerosol generating device.

3. The fragrance stick according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the adjustment mechanism allows the size of the orifice to be changed.

4. The fragrance stick according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the fragrance stick is shaped to define an airflow channel through the stick.

5. The fragrance stick according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the shell of the fragrance stick has a cylindrical shape, wherein the inner wall divides the internal volume of the stick into at least two compartments.

6. The fragrance stick according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one compartment is provided with a fragrance matrix.

7. The fragrance bar according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each compartment has the same RTD.

8. The fragrance stick according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the adjusting device includes a disc-shaped cap having an opening, wherein the disc-shaped cap is mounted to the end face of the cylindrical housing of the fragrance stick.

9. The fragrance stick according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein by rotating the disc-shaped cap, the opening can be positioned to allow airflow to pass completely through a compartment or to allow partial airflow to pass through two adjacent compartments.

10. The fragrance stick according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the adjusting device comprises a fragrance coating film.

11. The fragrance stick of claim 10, wherein the fragrance coating film is wound around a rotatable shaft, and preferably wherein, by rotating the rotatable shaft, the fragrance coating film can be wound onto or unwound from the rotatable shaft.

12. An aerosol generation system, comprising an aerosol generation device and a flavoring stick according to any one of the preceding claims.

13. The aerosol generating system of claim 12, wherein the flavoring stick is configured to be connected to an air inlet, near a mouthpiece, or in an airflow channel defined between the air inlet and the mouthpiece of the aerosol generating device.

14. The aerosol generation system according to any one of claims 12 and 13, wherein the fragrance stick is configured as a frame with lateral orifices.

15. The aerosol generation system according to any one of claims 12 to 14, wherein the apparatus includes a groove for receiving a frame-shaped fragrance stick.

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