An aerosol-generating device for use with an elongate aerosol-generating article

Abstract

The present invention relates to an aerosol generating apparatus (10) for use with an elongated aerosol generating article (34), the aerosol generating apparatus comprising: a cavity (18) for receiving the elongated aerosol generating article, a heating element (24) for heating the elongated aerosol generating article, and a driving element (22) for moving the elongated aerosol generating article relative to the heating element. The invention also relates to an aerosol generating system (32) comprising an aerosol generating apparatus and an elongated aerosol generating article to be received in the cavity of the aerosol generating apparatus.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an aerosol generating apparatus for use with elongated aerosol generating articles. The invention also relates to an aerosol generating system comprising an aerosol generating apparatus and elongated aerosol generating articles. Background Technology

[0002] An aerosol generating apparatus for producing inhalable vapors is known. Such an apparatus heats an aerosol-forming matrix to a temperature that causes one or more components of the aerosol-forming matrix to volatilize without burning the aerosol-forming matrix. Such an apparatus may be referred to as a heated non-combustible (HNB) apparatus. The aerosol-forming matrix may be in solid or liquid form.

[0003] Aerosol forming matrix can be provided as part of an aerosol generating article. The aerosol generating article may have a strip shape for insertion into a cavity (such as a heating chamber) of an aerosol generating apparatus. Heating elements may be arranged in or around the heating chamber to heat the aerosol forming matrix once the aerosol generating article is inserted into the heating chamber of the aerosol generating apparatus. Alternatively, a cylinder comprising a liquid aerosol forming matrix may be attached to or inserted into the aerosol generating apparatus to supply the liquid aerosol forming matrix to the apparatus for aerosol generation. The aerosol generating article or cylinder typically comprises a mixture of different materials. For example, a strip-shaped aerosol generating article may include filter segments, aerosol cooling segments, and metal sensors arranged within portions of the aerosol forming matrix, all enclosed in an outer paper package.

[0004] Alternative aerosol-generating articles can be formed solely from an aerosol-forming matrix. Therefore, such articles may not include packaging. Such articles may not include filter elements or cooling elements. Furthermore, such articles may have an elongated shape, with a length greater than that of articles conventionally used in HNB aerosol-generating devices. Summary of the Invention

[0005] It is desirable to have an aerosol generating apparatus configured for use with elongated aerosol generating articles. It is desirable to have an aerosol generating apparatus that allows for adjustment of operation according to user preferences. It is desirable to have an aerosol generating apparatus that allows for adjustment of operation according to user behavior. It is desirable to have an aerosol generating apparatus that allows for more sustainable use of the aerosol generating apparatus. It is desirable to have an aerosol generating apparatus configured to heat only a portion of the aerosol generating article. It is desirable to have an aerosol generating apparatus configured to collect the consumed portion of the aerosol generating article. It is desirable to have an aerosol generating apparatus configured to improve the hygiene of the apparatus. It is desirable to have an aerosol generating apparatus configured for heating different aerosol forming matrices.

[0006] According to embodiments of the present invention, an aerosol generating apparatus is provided for use with an elongated aerosol generating article. The aerosol generating apparatus includes a cavity for receiving the elongated aerosol generating article. The aerosol generating apparatus includes a heating element for heating the elongated aerosol generating article. The aerosol generating apparatus includes a driving element for moving the elongated aerosol generating article relative to the heating element.

[0007] According to embodiments of the present invention, an aerosol generating apparatus can be provided for use with an elongated aerosol generating article. The aerosol generating apparatus may include a cavity for receiving the elongated aerosol generating article. The aerosol generating apparatus may include a heating element for heating the elongated aerosol generating article. The aerosol generating apparatus may include a driving element for moving the elongated aerosol generating article relative to the heating element.

[0008] A drive element for moving the aerosol-generating article relative to a heater allows for the movement of the elongated aerosol-generating article during consumption. The drive element for moving the elongated aerosol-generating article during consumption also allows for the sequential consumption of the elongated aerosol-generating article in portions.

[0009] The cavity for receiving the elongated aerosol-generated article can be cylindrical, preferably tubular. The cavity can be formed between the drive element and the distal end of the aerosol-generating device. The cavity can be configured to receive the elongated aerosol-generated article through the distal end of the aerosol-generating device.

[0010] The cavity can be configured to receive multiple aerosol-generated articles. The cavity can be configured to transport one of the multiple aerosol-generated articles toward the drive element, preferably while simultaneously storing the remaining elongated aerosol-generated articles.

[0011] The cylindrical cavity can define a longitudinal axis corresponding to the insertion axis of the elongated aerosol-generating article.

[0012] Aerosol generating apparatus may include more than one heating element.

[0013] The heating element can be hollow, and preferably tubular.

[0014] The hollow central core of the tubular heating element may define a heating chamber configured for heating part of an elongated aerosol-generating article.

[0015] The inner diameter of the heating element can be between 2 mm and 6 mm, preferably between 2.5 mm and 5 mm, and most preferably between 3 mm and 4 mm.

[0016] The outer diameter of the heating element can be between 4 mm and 8 mm, preferably between 5 mm and 7 mm, and most preferably between 5.5 mm and 6.5 mm.

[0017] The length of the heating element can be between 3 mm and 20 mm, preferably between 5 mm and 15 mm, and most preferably between 7 mm and 13 mm.

[0018] The heating element may be made of ceramic material, preferably one or more of glass, clay, and metal oxides, such as iron oxide, aluminum oxide, titanium dioxide, silicon dioxide, silicon dioxide-alumina, zirconium oxide and cerium dioxide, zeolite, zirconium phosphate and other ceramic materials or combinations thereof.

[0019] The heating element can be a resistance heating element. The resistance heating element may include either a heating rail or a wire heater, preferably arranged on the inner surface of the (tubular) heating element. The wire heater may be made of a nickel-chromium alloy or any other suitable material.

[0020] At least one heating element may be arranged collinearly with the cavity. The heating element may be arranged between the drive element and the proximal end of the aerosol generating device.

[0021] The drive element can be configured to propel an elongated aerosol-generating article from the cavity toward the heating element.

[0022] A drive element can be configured to move an elongated aerosol-generating article through a (tubular) heating element. This configuration allows the drive element to advance a portion of the elongated aerosol-generating article into the heating element for heating within the heating element. Furthermore, the drive element can further advance that portion of the elongated aerosol-generating article to remove it from the heating element. In this way, the drive element can be made capable of removing consumed portions of the elongated aerosol-generating article from the heating element. Therefore, a drive element that moves an elongated aerosol-generating article through a (tubular) heating element allows for the consumption of the elongated aerosol-generating article in portions.

[0023] Preferably, at least one heating element may be arranged collinearly with the driving element along the longitudinal axis of the cavity.

[0024] The driving element may include a motor, preferably a stepper motor, to move an elongated aerosol-generating article.

[0025] Equipping the drive element with a motor allows for controlled propulsion of the elongated aerosol-generating article during motor operation. Starting the motor propels the elongated aerosol-generating article. Conversely, stopping the motor stops the propulsion of the elongated aerosol-generating article. Therefore, equipping the drive element with a motor allows for the sequential propulsion of the elongated aerosol-generating article.

[0026] The drive element may include a gear. The gear may be configured to move an elongated aerosol-generating article. A motor of the drive element may be used to drive the gear. Thus, starting the motor can drive the gear to propel the elongated aerosol-generating article.

[0027] The motor can be configured to adjust the rotational speed of the gear. When the gear propels the elongated aerosol-generating article, the gear's rotational speed can limit the propulsion speed of the elongated aerosol-generating article. Furthermore, the propulsion speed of the elongated aerosol-generating article can limit its consumption. Therefore, configuring the motor to adjust the gear's rotational speed allows for control over the consumption of the elongated aerosol-generating article.

[0028] The drive element may include a roller. The roller may be biased relative to a gear by a tensioning mechanism, wherein an elongated aerosol-generating article may be clamped between the gear and the biased roller. Clamping the elongated aerosol-generating article between the gear and the biased roller allows the gear to clamp and move the elongated aerosol-generating article when the motor is started.

[0029] The tensioning mechanism may include a tensioning arm. The tensioning mechanism may include a tensioning spring.

[0030] When the drive element is activated, the slender aerosol-generating article can move along the longitudinal axis of the cavity.

[0031] The aerosol generating apparatus may further include a controller configured to operate the drive elements and the heating element. The controller may be configured to operate a motor. Preferably, the controller may be configured to operate the drive elements sequentially. Configuring the controller to operate the drive elements sequentially allows the elongated aerosol-generated article to be sequentially advanced toward the heating element. Thus, the elongated aerosol-generated article can be consumed in sequence. Therefore, configuring the controller to operate the drive elements sequentially can provide a variety of user experiences.

[0032] Preferably, the controller can be configured to operate the drive element based on one or both of the suction intensity and the suction duration. The controller can adjust the propulsion speed of the elongated aerosol-generating article depending on the suction intensity.

[0033] The controller can be configured to adjust the operating time of the drive element based on the suction duration. Thus, when suction is detected, the controller can begin operating the drive element. Conversely, when no suction is detected, the controller can terminate the operation of the drive element. In this way, the controller can control the size of the portion of the elongated aerosol-generating article propelled through the tubular heating element based on the suction duration. Therefore, the user can adjust the consumption of the elongated aerosol-generating article based on the suction duration.

[0034] For example, compared to a suction duration of only 1 second, a driving element can propel an elongated aerosol-generating article further during a suction duration of 3 seconds. Therefore, a larger portion of the elongated aerosol-generating article can be heated or consumed during a suction duration of 3 seconds, compared to a suction duration of 1 second.

[0035] Preferably, the controller can be configured to activate the heating element based on one or both of the suction intensity and the suction duration. The controller can be configured to adjust the activation time of the heating element depending on the suction duration. Therefore, a longer suction duration allows the controller to activate the heating element for a longer period of time compared to a short suction duration.

[0036] The controller can be configured to adjust the temperature of the heating element based on the suction intensity. In this respect, the heating element can be adjusted to a higher temperature during high-intensity suction, and conversely, a lower temperature during low-intensity suction. Adjusting the temperature of the heating element also allows for the adjustment of the amount of aerosol being generated. This configuration allows the controller to regulate the amount of aerosol being generated. In other words, the user can be made to consume more or less aerosol depending on the intensity of the suction being performed.

[0037] The operation of the heating element can be triggered by the suction detection system. The suction detection system can be connected to the controller.

[0038] The suction detection system may include an airflow sensor. The airflow sensor can be used to measure the airflow rate. The airflow rate is a parameter characterizing the amount of air a user draws in each time they pass through the airflow path of the aerosol generating device. The start of suction can be detected by the airflow sensor when the airflow exceeds a predetermined threshold.

[0039] The suction detection system can also be configured to include a pressure sensor. The pressure sensor can be used to measure the air pressure within a defined airflow channel in the aerosol generating device. The suction detection system can be configured to measure the pressure difference or pressure drop between the external ambient air pressure and the airflow channel of the aerosol generating device.

[0040] Providing a suction detection system enables the measurement of one or both of suction intensity and suction duration.

[0041] The aerosol generating device may include a user interface connected to a controller. The user interface can be configured to adjust the controller. Such a configuration allows the user to manually adjust the parameters of the aerosol generating device. For example, the user may be able to adjust the temperature of the heating element via the user interface.

[0042] As used herein, the term "suction intensity" defines the intensity at which air is drawn in. In this respect, suction intensity can be defined by the airflow rate during intake. Alternatively, suction intensity can be defined by the pressure differential during intake.

[0043] The user interface can be configured to receive and display information from the controller regarding the status of the aerosol generating device. For example, the user can be enabled to monitor the battery level of the aerosol generating device regularly.

[0044] The aerosol generating device may also include a deflection element.

[0045] The deflection element can be located downstream of the heating element.

[0046] The deflection element can be configured to engage with the proximal portion of the elongated aerosol-generating article. Preferably, the proximal portion can engage with the deflection element after it has been consumed.

[0047] As used in this article, in the context of a portion of an aerosol-generating article, “consumed” can refer to the state of that portion, in which the aerosol-forming matrix of that portion may have been largely (or completely) aerosolized.

[0048] The deflecting element can be configured to cause the proximal portion to break off from the elongated aerosol-generated article. The deflecting element can be configured at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the cavity. Configuring the deflecting element at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the cavity causes the proximal portion to bend upon engagement with the deflecting element until the proximal portion can break off from the elongated aerosol-generated article.

[0049] Aerosol generating devices may include a waste containment unit.

[0050] The waste containment section can be configured to receive the proximal portion of a broken piece of an elongated aerosol-generated product.

[0051] The aerosol generating apparatus may include a mouthpiece. The mouthpiece may include an airflow channel through which aerosols formed from an elongated aerosol generating article can be drawn in.

[0052] A deflector element and a waste collection portion may be formed in the mouthpiece. The deflector element may be part of an airflow passage (preferably the outer wall of the airflow passage).

[0053] The mouthpiece can be configured to be replaceable.

[0054] The deflection element and waste container formed in the replaceable mouthpiece allow the user to maintain device hygiene by replacing the mouthpiece each time the waste container is full.

[0055] The drive element can be configured to propel the elongated aerosol-generating article toward the deflection element.

[0056] The drive element can be configured to advance the elongated aerosol generating article toward the deflection element, such that the proximal portion of the elongated aerosol generating article engages with the deflection element.

[0057] The drive element can be configured to further advance the elongated aerosol-generating article after it has engaged with a deflection element at its proximal portion. As the elongated aerosol-generating article is further advanced via the drive element after engagement with the deflection element, mechanical stress can accumulate within the proximal portion of the elongated aerosol-generating article. Ultimately, this can cause the proximal portion to break off from the elongated aerosol-generating article. By providing such a configuration of the drive element and deflection element, the proximal portion of the elongated aerosol-generating article can be removed shortly after consumption.

[0058] The drive element can be configured to advance the elongated aerosol generating article toward the deflection element, such that the proximal portion of the elongated aerosol generating article breaks off upon engagement with the deflection element.

[0059] The deflection element can be configured to be fixed inside the aerosol generating device.

[0060] The deflection element can be arranged downstream of and adjacent to the tubular heating element. This arrangement allows the proximal portion of the elongated aerosol-generating article to directly engage with the deflection element after it has been pushed out of the tubular heating element. Therefore, the proximal portion of the elongated aerosol-generating article can be directly removed after consumption.

[0061] Aerosol generating apparatus may include a liquid storage section. The aerosol generating apparatus may be configured to evaporate a portion of the stored liquid to generate aerosols.

[0062] The liquid storage section may include a liquid transport element for dispensing the liquid aerosol forming matrix stored in the liquid storage section. Preferably, the liquid transport element may be made of a porous and fluid-permeable material.

[0063] The liquid aerosol forming matrix may include a suitable mixture of one or more selected from propylene glycol, glycerin, water, nicotine, and flavoring agents.

[0064] Preferably, the liquid storage portion may have a liquid capacity of up to 2 ml.

[0065] The liquid storage section can be refillable. Alternatively, the liquid storage section can be replaceable.

[0066] A liquid transport element can be brought into contact with a heating element, such that the heating element can heat and evaporate a portion of the stored liquid aerosol forming matrix. Bringing the liquid transport element into contact with the heating element allows the liquid storage portion to be in fluid communication with the heating element. Therefore, the liquid transport element can dispense the liquid aerosol forming matrix from the liquid storage portion to the heating element. The heating element can then evaporate the dispensed liquid aerosol forming matrix to generate an aerosol.

[0067] The heating element can be made of a porous material. The heating element may include a porosity between 10% and 60%, preferably 20% to 50%. The porous heating element can be fluid-permeable. Providing a porous and fluid-permeable heating element allows the liquid aerosol forming matrix to be transported through the heating element. When the liquid transport element comes into contact with the porous and fluid-permeable heating element, the liquid aerosol forming matrix can be dispensed through the porous heating element. In the case of a tubular heating element, the liquid aerosol forming matrix can be dispensed into the heating chamber through the tubular heating element. Therefore, the liquid aerosol forming matrix can be evaporated inside the heating chamber of the tubular heating element to form an aerosol.

[0068] Therefore, in this embodiment, a user can experience both aerosols derived from a substantially solid aerosol-forming matrix (in the form of an elongated consumable) and aerosols derived from a liquid stored in a liquid reservoir within the same aerosol generating device. This enhances user convenience and device customization capabilities.

[0069] The liquid transport element may include a contact surface facing the heating element. The contact surface of the liquid transport element may include a groove of similar shape, which is configured to receive the heating element when the liquid transport element comes into contact with the heating element.

[0070] The heating element can be configured to simultaneously heat the elongated aerosol generating article and the liquid aerosol forming matrix when the liquid transport element is in contact with the heating element. This configuration allows for the simultaneous generation of aerosols from both the elongated aerosol generating article and the liquid aerosol forming matrix. In this way, the aerosols generated from the elongated aerosol generating article and the liquid aerosol forming matrix can be inhaled in combination.

[0071] An aerosol generation apparatus may include a transport mechanism via which a liquid transport element may be brought into contact with a heating element. A liquid storage section may be configured to be movable via the transport mechanism. The liquid storage section may be moved toward the heating element via the transport mechanism. The liquid storage section may be moved away from the heating element via the transport mechanism. Moving the liquid storage section toward the heating element via the transport mechanism brings the liquid transport element into contact with the heating element. Contact between the liquid transport element and the heating element creates fluid communication between the liquid storage section and the heating element. Therefore, a liquid aerosol forming matrix can be delivered to the heating element, and the heating element can generate aerosols from the liquid aerosol forming matrix. Moving the liquid storage section away from the heating element via the transport mechanism prevents contact between the liquid transport element and the heating element. Therefore, fluid communication between the liquid storage section and the heating element is interrupted, and no aerosols can be generated from the liquid aerosol forming matrix. Therefore, providing a transport mechanism enables the generation of aerosols from the liquid aerosol forming matrix through controlled movement of the liquid storage section.

[0072] The transport mechanism also allows for the combination of aerosols generated from a liquid aerosol forming matrix and an elongated aerosol generating article. While a portion of the elongated aerosol generating article is heated by a heating element, a liquid storage portion can move toward the heating element. Upon contact between the liquid transport element and the heating element, the liquid aerosol forming matrix can be dispensed onto the heating element. Therefore, the dispensed liquid aerosol forming matrix can be heated in parallel with that portion of the elongated aerosol generating article. Both the solid aerosol forming matrix of the heated portion of the elongated aerosol generating article and the liquid aerosol forming matrix from the liquid storage portion can be simultaneously evaporated by the heating element to form an aerosol.

[0073] The transmission mechanism can be operated manually by the user.

[0074] The transmission mechanism may include a flexible biasing element, preferably a spring. The flexible biasing element may be configured to bias the liquid storage portion away from the heating element. The flexible biasing element can be compressed so that the liquid storage portion faces the heating element. The flexible biasing element can be compressed by applying a force to the liquid storage portion. This force may be a pushing action directed towards the heating element. When the flexible biasing element is compressed, the liquid transmission element may come into contact with the heating element.

[0075] Equipping the transmission mechanism with a flexible bias element allows the user to control the generation of aerosols from the liquid storage section. When the liquid storage section is biased away from the heating element by the flexible bias element, the liquid transmission element does not need to contact the heating element. Therefore, while the liquid storage section is biased, no aerosol can be generated from the liquid aerosol formation matrix. The user can bring the liquid transmission element into contact with the heating element by compressing the flexible bias element.

[0076] For example, a user can press the liquid storage portion toward the heating element to compress the flexible biasing element. This allows the liquid transport element to contact the heating element, generating an aerosol from the liquid aerosol forming matrix. The user can maintain contact between the liquid transport element and the heating element by keeping the liquid storage portion pressed toward the heating element. In this way, the liquid aerosol forming matrix can be continuously dispensed onto the heating element. Therefore, maintaining the liquid storage portion pressed toward the heating element allows for continuous aerosol generation from the liquid aerosol forming matrix. Releasing the pressure on the liquid storage portion allows the flexible biasing element to bias the liquid storage portion away from the heating element.

[0077] According to an embodiment of the present invention, an aerosol generation system is provided, comprising an aerosol generation apparatus and an elongated aerosol generation article. The elongated aerosol generation article is to be received in the cavity of the aerosol generation apparatus.

[0078] According to embodiments of the present invention, an aerosol generation system comprising an aerosol generation apparatus and an elongated aerosol generation article can be provided. The elongated aerosol generation article can be received in the cavity of the aerosol generation apparatus.

[0079] Elongated aerosol-generating articles can be made solely from an aerosol-forming matrix. Conventional aerosol-generating articles typically include filter segments based on cellulose acetate tows and aerosol cooling segments disposed within the aerosol-forming matrix portion, all enclosed in an outer paper package. However, these aerosol-generating articles may pose challenges for disposal and recycling due to their plastic content and material mix. Compared to such conventional aerosol-generating articles, the elongated aerosol-generating articles of the present invention can be made solely from an aerosol-forming matrix. Therefore, the elongated aerosol-generating articles of the present invention can provide a more sustainable alternative, as they may eliminate the need for cellulose acetate tow filter segments, aerosol cooling segments, or paper packaging.

[0080] The length of slender aerosol generating products can be greater than the longitudinal dimension of tubular heating elements.

[0081] The length of a slender aerosol-generating product can be a multiple of the longitudinal dimension of a tubular heating element.

[0082] The length of the elongated aerosol-generated article can be between 50 mm and 100 mm, preferably between 60 mm and 90 mm, and most preferably between 65 mm and 75 mm.

[0083] Preferably, the inner diameter of the heating element may be larger than the diameter of the elongated aerosol generating article. Providing a heating element with an inner diameter larger than the diameter of the elongated aerosol generating article can prevent the heating element from interfering with the propulsion of the aerosol generating article.

[0084] The diameter of the elongated aerosol-generating article can be between 1 mm and 4 mm, preferably 1.5 mm to 3 mm, and most preferably 1.5 mm to 2.5 mm. The diameter of the elongated aerosol-generating article can extend in a direction perpendicular to the length of the elongated aerosol-generating article.

[0085] The length of the aerosol generating device can be between 80 mm and 150 mm, preferably between 90 mm and 130 mm, and most preferably between 100 mm and 120 mm.

[0086] The width of the aerosol generating device can be between 20 mm and 60 mm, preferably between 25 mm and 55 mm, and most preferably between 30 mm and 50 mm.

[0087] The thickness of the aerosol generating device can be between 10 mm and 50 mm, preferably between 15 mm and 45 mm, and more preferably between 20 mm and 40 mm.

[0088] As used herein, the term "length" refers to the principal dimension in the longitudinal direction of the aerosol generating apparatus, the longitudinal direction of the aerosol generating article, or the longitudinal direction of a component of the aerosol generating apparatus or the aerosol generating article.

[0089] As used herein, the term “width” refers to the principal dimension at a specific location along its length in the transverse direction of the aerosol generating apparatus, the transverse direction of the aerosol generating article, or the transverse direction of a component of the aerosol generating apparatus or the aerosol generating article.

[0090] As used in this article, the term "thickness" refers to the dimension in the lateral direction perpendicular to the width.

[0091] Alternatively, the resistance heating element may take the form of one or more metal meshes, flexible printed circuit boards, molded interconnect devices (MIDs), ceramic heaters, flexible carbon fiber heaters, or may be formed on a suitable molded substrate using coating techniques such as plasma vapor deposition. The resistance heating element may also be formed using a metal having a defined relationship between temperature and resistivity. In such an exemplary device, the metal may be formed as a track between two layers of suitable insulating material. Resistance heating elements formed in this way can be used to both heat the resistance heating element and monitor its temperature during operation.

[0092] The heating element can be a radiation-based heating element, such as, but not limited to, a semiconductor-based heating element having an array of separate radiation-based heating elements, as shown in, for example, WO2017 / 182249, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0093] The heating element may be an induction heating element. An induction heating element may include one or more induction coils, each induction coil surrounding a corresponding cavity. For example, a helical induction coil may extend around a first and second main boundary surface of the cavity. The longitudinal axis of said or each induction coil may be substantially parallel to the main flow axis. For example, the heating element may be configured to have planar coils configured for inductively heating internal, external, or contacting flattened receptors within the aerosol-forming matrix of a flat or planar aerosol-forming article, as described, for example, in WO2015 / 177043 or WO2015 / 177044, which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0094] As used in this article, the term "longitudinal axis" for induction coils refers to an axis that extends through the center of the coil in a direction generally perpendicular to the turns of the coil.

[0095] The induction heating element may be arranged as an induction heating sensor. The induction heating element may include one or more induction coils positioned adjacent to the first and / or second main boundary surfaces of the respective cavity. The longitudinal axis of said or each induction coil may be substantially perpendicular to the main flow axis, for example, perpendicular to the plane defined by the first main boundary surface.

[0096] One or more induction coils may be planar. For example, a planar induction coil may be positioned adjacent to and parallel to one of the first and second main boundary surfaces of the corresponding cavity. For example, a first planar induction coil may be positioned adjacent to and parallel to the first main boundary surface, and a second planar induction coil may be positioned adjacent to and parallel to the second main boundary surface.

[0097] The receptor can be part of the aerosol generating device. For example, the receptor can be disposed on the inside of a cavity. For example, one or both of the first and second main boundary surfaces of the corresponding cavity can contain receptor material.

[0098] The sensor can be located on the inner surface of the hollow tubular heating element.

[0099] In use, the sensor can be inductively heated by the aforementioned or each induction coil. The sensor then conductively, convectively, and / or radiatively heats the aerosol-forming matrix located near the sensor.

[0100] A "sensor" is an element that heats up when subjected to a changing or alternating magnetic field. Typically, a sensor is conductive, and the heating of the sensor is a result of eddy currents or hysteresis losses induced within it. Both hysteresis losses and eddy currents can occur in a sensor. Sensors can include graphite, molybdenum, silicon carbide, stainless steel, niobium, aluminum, and any other conductive material. Preferably, the sensor element is a ferrite element. The material and geometry of the sensor can be selected to provide the desired resistance and heat generation.

[0101] In the operation of an induction heater, a high-frequency alternating current passes through one or more induction coils to generate one or more corresponding alternating magnetic fields. These alternating magnetic fields induce a voltage in the sensor of the workpiece. The induced voltage causes a current to flow in the sensor, and this current causes Joule heating of the sensor, which in turn heats the aerosol forming the matrix. If the sensor is ferromagnetic, hysteresis losses in the sensor can also generate heat.

[0102] The term “high frequency” refers to frequencies ranging from about 500 kHz (KHz) to about 30 MHz (MHz) (including the range from 500 kHz to 30 MHz), particularly from about 1 MHz (MHz) to about 10 MHz (including the range from 1 MHz to 10 MHz), and even more particularly from about 5 MHz (MHz) to about 7 MHz (MHz) (including the range from 5 MHz to 7 MHz).

[0103] Throughout this disclosure, the term "magnetic field" may refer to a changing or alternating magnetic field.

[0104] Throughout this disclosure, the term "current" may refer to alternating current.

[0105] The heating element may be configured or can be configured to heat the article received in the cavity to a temperature less than 350 degrees Celsius, for example less than 300 degrees Celsius, such as less than 270 degrees Celsius. In some embodiments, the heater may be configured or can be configured to heat the article received in the heating chamber for forming an aerosol to a temperature less than 250, 225, 200, 175, or 150 degrees Celsius, for example less than 140, 130, 120, 110, 100, or 90 degrees Celsius.

[0106] The aerosol generating apparatus may include a power source or power supply device, typically a battery, located within the main body of the apparatus. In one embodiment, the power supply device 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 uses; 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 supply device may have sufficient capacity to provide a predetermined number of discontinuous starts of the suction or heating element. A controller may be connected to the power source.

[0107] As used herein, the term "aerosol-forming matrix" refers to a matrix capable of releasing volatile compounds that can form aerosols. Such volatile compounds can be released by heating the aerosol-forming matrix. The aerosol-forming matrix can be in solid or liquid form. It can be solid or liquid, or may contain both solid and liquid components. The aerosol-forming matrix can be part of an aerosol-generating article. The terms "aerosol" and "vapor" are used synonymously.

[0108] The aerosol forming matrix may contain pharmaceutically active compounds. The aerosol forming matrix may contain one or more of the following: tobacco, nicotine, gel compositions, and flavoring agents. The aerosol forming matrix may contain nicotine.

[0109] The aerosol forming matrix may comprise one or more of plant-derived materials, plant-derived drugs, and drug components. One or more of the plant-derived materials, plant-derived drugs, and drug components may be a portion of the aerosol forming matrix that can be at least partially aerosolized using an aerosol forming agent for inhalation. The aerosol forming matrix may comprise one or more of plant-derived materials, plant-derived drugs, and drug components, wherein said matrix has an aerosol forming agent content of between 5% and 30% by weight (dry weight).

[0110] Preferably, the aerosol forming matrix comprises plant material and an aerosol forming agent. Preferably, the plant material is alkaloid-containing plant material, more preferably nicotine-containing plant material, and even more preferably tobacco-containing material.

[0111] Preferably, the aerosol-forming matrix comprises at least 70% by weight of plant material on a dry weight basis, more preferably at least 90% by weight of plant material. More preferably, the aerosol-forming matrix comprises less than 95% by weight of plant material on a dry weight basis, such as 90% to 95% by weight of plant material on a dry weight basis.

[0112] Preferably, the aerosol forming matrix comprises at least 5% by weight of an aerosol forming agent on a dry weight basis, more preferably at least 10% by weight of an aerosol forming agent. Preferably, the aerosol forming matrix comprises less than 30% by weight of an aerosol forming agent on a dry weight basis, such as 5% to 30% by weight of an aerosol forming agent on a dry weight basis.

[0113] In some particularly preferred embodiments, the aerosol-forming matrix comprises plant material and an aerosol-forming agent, wherein the matrix has an aerosol-forming agent content of between 5% and 30% by weight (dry weight). The plant material is preferably alkaloid-containing, more preferably nicotine-containing, and even more preferably tobacco-containing. Alkaloids are a class of naturally occurring nitrogen-containing organic compounds. Alkaloids are primarily found in plants, but can also be found in bacteria, fungi, and animals. Examples of alkaloids include, but are not limited to, caffeine, nicotine, theobromine, atropine, and tubocurarine. A preferred alkaloid is nicotine, which is found in tobacco.

[0114] The aerosol forming matrix may contain nicotine. The aerosol forming matrix may include tobacco, for example, a tobacco-containing material containing volatile tobacco flavor compounds that are released from the aerosol forming matrix upon heating. In a preferred embodiment, the aerosol forming matrix may contain homogenized tobacco material, such as cast tobacco. The aerosol forming matrix may contain both solid and liquid components. The aerosol forming matrix may contain tobacco-containing material containing volatile tobacco flavor compounds that are released from the matrix upon heating. The aerosol forming matrix may contain non-tobacco materials. The aerosol forming matrix may contain mixed plant-derived materials. The aerosol forming matrix may contain CBD. The aerosol forming matrix may contain THC. The aerosol forming matrix may also contain aerosol forming agents. Examples of suitable aerosol forming agents are glycerol and propylene glycol.

[0115] The aerosol forming matrix may include at least one aerosol forming agent. An aerosol forming agent is any suitable known compound or mixture of compounds that promotes the formation of a dense and stable aerosol during use and is substantially resistant to thermal degradation at the system's operating temperature. Suitable aerosol forming agents are well known in the art and include, but are not limited to: polyols, such as triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol, and glycerol; esters of polyols, such as glycerol monoacetate, glycerol diacetate, or glycerol triacetate; and aliphatic esters of monocarboxylic acids, dicarboxylic acids, or polycarboxylic acids, such as dimethyl dodecanoate and dimethyl tetradecanoate. The aerosol forming agent may be a polyol or a mixture thereof, such as triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol, and glycerol. The aerosol forming agent may be propylene glycol. The aerosol forming agent may include both glycerol and propylene glycol.

[0116] The aerosol-forming matrix can also be provided in liquid form. The liquid aerosol-forming matrix may contain other additives and ingredients, such as flavoring agents. The liquid aerosol-forming matrix may include water, solvents, ethanol, plant extracts, and natural or artificial flavors. The liquid aerosol-forming matrix may include nicotine. The liquid aerosol-forming matrix may have a nicotine concentration between about 0.5% and about 10%, for example, about 2%. The liquid aerosol-forming matrix may be contained in the liquid storage portion of an aerosol-generating article, in which case the aerosol-generating article may be represented as a cylinder.

[0117] As used herein, the term "tobacco material" is used to describe any material that includes tobacco, including but not limited to tobacco leaves, tobacco ribs, tobacco stems, tobacco stalks, tobacco dust, puffed tobacco, reconstituted tobacco material, and homogenized tobacco material.

[0118] As used herein, the term "homogenized tobacco" refers to a material formed by agglomerating particulate tobacco. Homogenized tobacco may include reconstituted tobacco or cast tobacco, or a mixture of both. The term "reconstituted tobacco" refers to a papery material that may be made from tobacco byproducts such as tobacco dust, tobacco ash, tobacco stems, or mixtures thereof. Reconstituted tobacco can be prepared by extracting soluble chemicals from tobacco byproducts, processing the remaining tobacco fibers into sheets, and then applying the extracted material in a concentrated form back onto the sheets.

[0119] The term "cast leaf" is used herein to refer to a sheet product manufactured by a casting process, which is based on casting a slurry containing plant particles (e.g., clove particles or tobacco particles and clove particles in a mixture) and a binder (e.g., guar gum) onto a support surface (such as a belt conveyor), drying the slurry, and removing the dried sheet from the support surface. Examples of casting or cast leaf processes are described, for example, in U.S. Patent No. 5,724,998 for the manufacture of cast leaf tobacco, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. In the cast leaf process, granular plant material is mixed with a liquid component (typically water) to form a slurry. Other additives in the slurry may include fibers, binders, and aerosol-forming agents. The granular plant material may agglomerate in the presence of a binder. The slurry is cast onto a support surface and dried to form a homogenized sheet of plant material.

[0120] The aerosol forming matrix may contain one or more flavoring agents. As used herein, the term "flavoring agent" refers to an ingredient with sensory properties that provides a sensory experience to a user, such as enhancing the aroma of the aerosol. Flavoring agents can be used to deliver taste (flavor), smell (odor), or both taste and smell to a user, for example, when inhaling an aerosol.

[0121] As used herein, the term "aerosol-generating article" refers to an article comprising an aerosol-forming matrix capable of releasing volatile compounds that can form aerosols. Aerosol-generating articles may be disposable. Aerosol-generating articles comprising an aerosol-forming matrix (including tobacco) may be referred to herein as tobacco sticks.

[0122] As used herein, the term "aerosol generating apparatus" refers to an apparatus that interacts with an aerosol forming matrix to generate aerosols. An aerosol generating apparatus may interact with one or both of an aerosol generating article comprising an aerosol forming matrix and a cylinder comprising an aerosol forming matrix. In some instances, an aerosol generating apparatus may heat the aerosol forming matrix to promote the release of volatile compounds from the matrix. Electrically operated aerosol generating apparatus may include an atomizer, such as an electric heater, to heat the aerosol forming matrix to generate aerosols.

[0123] As used herein, the term "aerosol generation system" refers to the combination of an aerosol generation apparatus and an aerosol forming matrix. When the aerosol forming matrix forms part of an aerosol generation article, the aerosol generation system refers to the combination of the aerosol generation apparatus and the aerosol generation article. In an aerosol generation system, the aerosol forming matrix and the aerosol generation apparatus cooperate to generate aerosols.

[0124] As used herein, the term "smoking" in relation to apparatus, articles, systems, substrates, or otherwise does not refer to conventional smoking in which the aerosol-forming substrate is completely or at least partially burned. The aerosol-generating apparatus of the present invention is arranged to heat the aerosol-forming substrate to a temperature below the combustion temperature of the aerosol-forming substrate but at or above the temperature at which one or more volatile compounds of the aerosol-forming substrate are released to form an inhalable aerosol.

[0125] As used in this article, the term "usage process" refers to a cycle in which a user applies a series of suctions to extract aerosols from an aerosol-forming matrix.

[0126] 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.

[0127] An aerosol generating device may include an orifice through which aerosols exit the device and are delivered to a user during use. In use, the user inhales through a suction device at a proximal end or orifice to inhale the aerosol generated by the device. The aerosol generating device may include a distal end opposite the proximal end or orifice. The proximal end or orifice may also be referred to as the downstream end, and the distal end may be referred to as the upstream end. Components or portions of components of the aerosol generating device may be described as upstream or downstream of each other based on their relative position between the proximal, downstream, or orifice and the distal or upstream end.

[0128] As used herein, the terms “tubular,” “tubular unit,” “tubular component,” “tubular element,” “tubular shape,” and “tubular form” refer to a three-dimensional object and three-dimensional geometry comprising a bottom base surface, a top base surface, and sidewalls defining a hollow central core, the sidewalls being disposed between the bottom and top base surfaces. The sidewalls extend along the longitudinal axis of the tubular element between the bottom and top base surfaces. The longitudinal axis may be perpendicular to one or both of the bottom and top base surfaces.

[0129] The bottom base of the tubular element lies within a bottom base plane. The top base of the tubular element lies within a top base plane. One or both of the bottom and top bases may have a circular cross-sectional shape. One or both of the bottom and top bases may have a non-circular cross-sectional shape, such as elliptical, stadium-shaped, or rectangular. One or both of the bottom and top bases may be at least partially open to provide an internal hollow passageway within the tubular element.

[0130] Tubular elements can have the shape of a perfectly circular hollow cylinder. Tubular elements can also have the shape of a non-circular hollow cylinder, such as an elliptical hollow cylinder or a stadium-shaped hollow cylinder. Tubular elements can also have the shape of a hollow cuboid.

[0131] The longitudinal axis of the tubular element can be arranged parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generating device. The longitudinal central axis of the tubular element can coincide with the longitudinal cavity axis.

[0132] 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.

[0133] Example 1: An aerosol generating apparatus for use with an elongated aerosol generating article, the aerosol generating apparatus comprising:

[0134] A cavity for receiving the elongated aerosol-generated article.

[0135] Heating element for heating the elongated aerosol-generating article, and

[0136] A drive element for moving the elongated aerosol-generating article relative to the heating element.

[0137] Example 2: According to the aerosol generating apparatus of Example 1, the cavity for receiving the elongated aerosol generating article is cylindrical, preferably tubular.

[0138] Example 3: The aerosol generating apparatus according to Example 1, wherein the cylindrical cavity defines a longitudinal axis corresponding to the insertion axis of the elongated aerosol generating article.

[0139] Example 4: An aerosol generating apparatus according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the heating element is hollow, preferably tubular.

[0140] Example 5: An aerosol generating apparatus according to any of the preceding examples, wherein at least one heating element is arranged collinearly with the cavity.

[0141] Example 6: An aerosol generating apparatus according to any of the foregoing examples, wherein the driving element is configured to advance the elongated aerosol generating article from the cavity toward the heating element.

[0142] Example 7: An aerosol generating apparatus according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the driving element is configured to move the elongated aerosol generating article through a (tubular) heating element.

[0143] Example 8: An aerosol generating apparatus according to any of the foregoing examples, wherein the driving element includes a motor, preferably a stepper motor, to move the elongated aerosol generating article.

[0144] Example 9: An aerosol generating apparatus according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the driving element includes a gear, and wherein the motor of the driving element is used to drive the gear.

[0145] Example 10: An aerosol generating apparatus according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the driving element includes a roller biased relative to the gear by a tensioning mechanism, wherein the elongated aerosol generating article is held between the gear and the biased roller.

[0146] Example 11: An aerosol generating apparatus according to any of the preceding examples, wherein when the driving element is activated, the elongated aerosol generating article moves along the longitudinal axis of the cavity.

[0147] Example 12: An aerosol generating apparatus according to any of the foregoing examples, wherein the aerosol generating apparatus further includes a controller configured to operate the drive element and the heating element.

[0148] Example 13: The aerosol generating apparatus according to any of the foregoing examples further includes a deflection element.

[0149] Example 14: An aerosol generating apparatus according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the deflection element is located downstream of the heating element.

[0150] Example 15: An aerosol generating apparatus according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the deflection element is configured to engage with the proximal portion of the elongated aerosol generating article.

[0151] Example 16: An aerosol generating apparatus according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the deflection element is configured to cause the proximal portion to break off from the elongated aerosol generating article.

[0152] Example 17: An aerosol generating apparatus according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the aerosol generating apparatus includes a waste containment section.

[0153] Example 18: An aerosol generating apparatus according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the waste receiving portion is configured to receive the proximal portion of a broken piece of the elongated aerosol generating article.

[0154] Example 19: An aerosol generating apparatus according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the aerosol generating apparatus includes a mouthpiece.

[0155] Example 20: An aerosol generating apparatus according to any of the preceding examples, wherein a deflection element and a waste containment portion are formed in a mouthpiece.

[0156] Example 21: An aerosol generating apparatus according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the mouthpiece is configured to be replaceable.

[0157] Example 22: An aerosol generating apparatus according to any of the foregoing examples, wherein the aerosol generating apparatus includes a liquid storage section, and wherein the aerosol generating apparatus is configured to evaporate a portion of the stored liquid to generate an aerosol.

[0158] Example 23: An aerosol generating apparatus according to any of the foregoing examples, wherein the liquid storage section includes a liquid transport element for dispensing a liquid aerosol forming matrix stored in the liquid storage section.

[0159] Example 24: An aerosol generating apparatus according to any of the preceding examples, wherein a liquid transport element can be made to contact the heating element, such that the heater is made to heat and evaporate a portion of the stored liquid aerosol forming matrix.

[0160] Example 25: An aerosol generating apparatus according to any of the foregoing examples, wherein the aerosol generating apparatus includes a transport mechanism, through which a liquid transport element is brought into contact with the heating element.

[0161] Example 26: An aerosol generating apparatus according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the transmission mechanism is manually operated by the user.

[0162] Example 27: An aerosol generation system comprising an aerosol generation apparatus according to any of the preceding examples, and an elongated aerosol generation article to be received in the cavity of the aerosol generation apparatus.

[0163] Example 28: According to the aerosol generation system of the previous example, the elongated aerosol generation article has a length greater than the longitudinal dimension of the tubular heating element.

[0164] Example 29: According to the aerosol generation system of the previous example, the elongated aerosol generation article has a length that is a multiple of the longitudinal dimension of the tubular heating element.

[0165] The features described with respect to one embodiment can also be applied to other embodiments of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0166] The invention will be further described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0167] Figure 1A An aerosol generating apparatus is shown;

[0168] Figure 1B An aerosol generation system is shown;

[0169] Figure 2 The driving element is shown;

[0170] Figure 3 A schematic diagram is shown;

[0171] Figure 4 The aerosol-generated product is shown;

[0172] Figure 5A and 5B An aerosol generation system is shown;

[0173] Figure 6A and 6B A liquid transport element is shown;

[0174] Figure 7 An aerosol generating apparatus is shown; Detailed Implementation

[0175] Figure 1AAn aerosol generating device 10 is shown, comprising a body 12 and a mouthpiece 14. The mouthpiece 14 includes an airflow channel 16 and allows a user to inhale aerosol generated by the aerosol generating device from an aerosol forming matrix. The body 12 includes a section configured to receive an elongated aerosol generating article 34 (in... Figure 1B The body 12 also includes a cavity 18 (shown in the diagram). The body 12 further includes an opening 20 at its distal end through which an elongated aerosol-generating article 34 can be inserted. The aerosol-generating apparatus 10 includes a tubular heating element 24 configured to heat the portion of the elongated aerosol-generating article 34 within a heating chamber (not shown). The aerosol-generating apparatus 10 also includes a drive element 22 arranged collinearly with the cavity 18 and the tubular heating element 24. The drive element 22 is configured to advance the elongated aerosol-generating article 34 toward and through the tubular heating element. The drive element 22 is operable by a stepper motor (not shown). The aerosol-generating apparatus 10 includes a deflection element 26 arranged downstream of the tubular heating element 24. A waste containment portion is arranged upstream of the deflection element 26.

[0176] The aerosol generating device 10 also includes an electronic circuit system 30. The electronic circuit system 30 includes a power source in the form of a battery. The electronic circuit system 30 also includes a controller 38. The controller 38 is connected to the tubular heating element 24 and the drive element 22. The controller 38 is also configured to activate the heating element and operate the drive element 22. The controller 38 is configured to operate the drive element 22 based on the suction intensity.

[0177] The controller 38 is also configured to activate the heating element based on the suction intensity. Therefore, the user's more intensive suction causes the drive system to propel the elongated aerosol-generating article 34 a greater distance compared to less intensive suction. The user's more intensive suction also causes the tubular heating element 24 to heat a larger portion of the elongated aerosol-generating article 34 compared to less intensive suction. A suction detector, in the form of an airflow sensor (not shown), is connected to the controller 38 and configured to measure the airflow rate that defines the suction intensity.

[0178] Figure 1B An aerosol generation system 32 is shown, which includes an aerosol generation device 10 and an elongated aerosol generation article 34 received inside a cavity 18. (As shown in...) Figure 1BAs shown, the elongated aerosol generating article 34 has been advanced by the drive element 22 toward and through the tubular heating element 24. The tubular heating element 24 is configured to heat the portion of the elongated aerosol generating article 34 located inside its hollow central core. The heated portion of the elongated aerosol generating article 34 forms an aerosol that can be inhaled by a user through the mouthpiece 14. The drive element 22 is configured to further advance the portion located inside the tubular heating element 24 toward the deflection plate after this portion of the elongated aerosol generating article 34 has been consumed. Figure 4 (As shown in the image).

[0179] Figure 2 A cross-sectional side view shows an elongated aerosol generating article 34 being advanced toward and through a tubular heating element 24 by a drive element 22. The drive element 22 includes a gear 36, which is rotatable when a stepper motor (not shown) connected to the gear 36 is activated. The drive element 22 also includes a roller 38 connected to a tensioning mechanism. The tensioning mechanism includes a tension arm 40 and a tension spring 42 configured to bias the roller 38 toward the gear 36. The elongated aerosol generating article 34 is inserted into a cavity 18 (not shown) such that the elongated aerosol generating article 34 is held between the gear 36 and the biased roller 38. During rotation of the gear 36, the elongated aerosol generating article 34 is held by the gear 36 and advanced toward and through the tubular heating element 24.

[0180] Figure 3 A schematic diagram with three graphs is shown, illustrating the airflow rate over time. Each graph corresponds to a suction with a different suction intensity. Suction A has a higher airflow rate compared to suctions B and C. Therefore, suction A has a higher suction intensity compared to suctions B and C. When the controller operates the drive element of the aerosol generating device based on the suction intensity, suction A causes the elongated aerosol generating article 34 to be propelled a greater distance by the drive element compared to suctions B and C. Therefore, suction A will consume more elongated aerosol generating article 34 compared to suctions B and C. Conversely, suction C will consume fewer elongated aerosol generating article 34 compared to suctions A and B.

[0181] Figure 4A side view is shown of an elongated aerosol generating article 34 received in the aerosol generating apparatus 10. The elongated aerosol generating article 34 includes a proximal portion 44 that has already been advanced through the tubular heating element 24 and is therefore already consumed. After being advanced beyond the tubular heating element 24, the proximal portion 44 engages with a deflection element 26. Upon engagement with the deflection element 26, the elongated aerosol generating article 34 bends. Upon further advancement of the elongated aerosol generating article 34, the proximal portion 44 breaks off from the elongated aerosol generating article 34 and falls into a waste receiving section 28, as indicated by arrow 46. The waste receiving section is configured to receive and collect multiple consumed proximal portions 44.

[0182] Figure 5A and 5B An embodiment of the aerosol generation system 32 is shown. An elongated aerosol generation article 34 is received inside the aerosol generation apparatus 10. A portion of the elongated aerosol generation article 34 is located inside the tubular heating element 24. The aerosol generation apparatus 10 also includes a liquid storage section 48 configured to store a liquid aerosol forming matrix. The liquid storage section 48 includes a liquid transport element 50 (in... Figure 6A and 6B (As shown in the diagram). The liquid transport element 50 is porous and configured to receive a liquid aerosol forming matrix from the liquid storage section 48. Figure 5A In this configuration, the liquid storage section 48 is arranged away from the tubular heating element 24. The liquid storage section 48 is movable toward the tubular heating element such that the liquid transfer element 50 of the liquid storage section 48 contacts the tubular heating element 24 (see [link]). Figure 5B The liquid transfer element 50 contacts the tubular heating element 24, allowing the liquid aerosol formation matrix to be dispensed from the liquid storage section 48 to the tubular heating element 24. Figure 5A and 5B The tubular heating element 24 is porous and fluid-permeable. Therefore, the liquid aerosol forming matrix is ​​dispensed into the heating chamber (not shown) through the tubular heating element 24. The heating element 24 evaporates the dispensed liquid aerosol forming matrix to form an aerosol.

[0183] Heating element 24 is also configured such that when liquid transfer element 50 contacts heating element (see...) Figure 5BSimultaneously heating the elongated aerosol generating article 34 and the liquid aerosol forming matrix. When the liquid transfer element 50 contacts the tubular heating element 24, the liquid aerosol forming matrix is ​​dispensed from the liquid storage portion 48 into the heating chamber of the tubular heating element 24. At the same time, a portion of the elongated aerosol generating article 34 is located inside the tubular heating element 24. Therefore, the dispensed liquid aerosol forming matrix and a portion of the elongated aerosol generating article 34 are heated simultaneously. In this way, aerosols from the elongated aerosol generating article 34 and the liquid aerosol forming matrix can be generated simultaneously. Subsequently, the aerosols generated from the elongated aerosol generating article 34 and the liquid aerosol forming matrix can be inhaled in combination.

[0184] Figure 6A and 6B The side view shows the liquid transfer element 50 in contact with the tubular heating element 24. The liquid transfer element 50 includes a contact surface 52 facing the tubular heating element 24. The contact surface 52 also includes a groove 54 in which the tubular heating element 24 is accommodated when the liquid transfer element 50 is in contact with the tubular heating element 24.

[0185] Figure 7 A side view of the aerosol generation system 32 is shown. The aerosol generation device 10 of the aerosol generation system 32 includes a user interface 56 disposed on the outer surface of the main body 12. The user interface 56 is connected to a controller 38. The user interface 56 is also configured to adjust the controller 38. Therefore, the user interface 56 allows the user to manually adjust the functions or parameters of the aerosol generation device 10. For example, the user interface 56 allows the user to adjust the temperature of the heating element.

[0186] The user interface 56 is also configured to receive and display information from the controller 38 regarding the status of the aerosol generating device 10. Therefore, the user interface 56 enables the user to receive information about the status of the aerosol generating device 10 (e.g., the battery level of the aerosol generating device 10).

Claims

1. An aerosol generating apparatus for use with an elongated aerosol generating article, the aerosol generating apparatus comprising: A cavity for receiving the elongated aerosol-generated article. Heating element for heating the elongated aerosol-generating article, and A drive element for moving the elongated aerosol-generating article relative to the heating element.

2. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the heating element is hollow, preferably tubular.

3. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the driving element is configured to advance the elongated aerosol generating article from the cavity toward the heating element.

4. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the driving element is configured to move the aerosol generating article through a (tubular) heating element.

5. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the driving element comprises a motor, preferably a stepper motor, for moving the elongated aerosol generating article.

6. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the aerosol generating apparatus further comprises a controller configured to operate the drive element and the heating element.

7. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the aerosol generating apparatus further comprises a deflection element.

8. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the aerosol generating apparatus includes a waste containment section.

9. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the aerosol generating apparatus includes a mouthpiece.

10. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the deflection element and the waste receiving portion are formed in the mouthpiece.

11. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the aerosol generating apparatus includes a liquid storage section, and wherein the aerosol generating apparatus is configured to evaporate a portion of the stored liquid to generate an aerosol.

12. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the liquid storage section includes a liquid transport element for dispensing a liquid aerosol forming matrix stored in the liquid storage section.

13. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the liquid transport element is configured to contact the heating element, such that the heater is configured to heat and evaporate a portion of the stored liquid aerosol forming matrix.

14. An aerosol generation system comprising an aerosol generation apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, and an elongated aerosol generation article to be received in a cavity of the aerosol generation apparatus.

15. The aerosol generation system according to the preceding claim, wherein the elongated aerosol generation article has a length greater than the longitudinal dimension of the tubular heating element.

Images