Aerosol-generating device

Abstract

An aerosol-generating device (200) for use with an aerosol-generating article comprising a container is provided. The aerosol-generating device (200) comprises a recess (204) for receiving the aerosol-generating article. The aerosol-generating device (200) comprises a heater assembly configured to heat the aerosol-generating article to generate an aerosol. The recess (204) comprises one or more air inlets (211) and one or more aerosol outlets (212). An airflow path (224) is provided through the recess (204), defined between the one or more air inlets (211) and the one or more aerosol outlets (212). A shortest line joining any of the one or more air inlets (211) to any of the one or more aerosol outlets (212) is not parallel to each of a width (221) of the recess, a length (222) of the recess (204) and a depth (223) of the recess (204).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to an aerosol generating apparatus for use with an aerosol generating article. In particular, the invention relates to an aerosol generating apparatus having a recess including one or more air inlets and one or more aerosol outlets. This disclosure also relates to an aerosol generating system comprising an aerosol generating article and an aerosol generating apparatus. Background Technology

[0002] Aerosol-generating articles, such as those in which an aerosol-generating matrix containing a tobacco matrix is ​​heated rather than burned, are known in the art. In heated aerosol-generating articles, aerosols are generated by heating the aerosol-generating matrix.

[0003] One type of aerosol generation system is an electrically operated smoking system. Known handheld electrically operated smoking systems typically include an aerosol generation device comprising a rechargeable battery, control electronics, and an electric heater for heating an aerosol-generating article specifically designed for use with the aerosol generation device. In some instances, the aerosol-generating article comprises an aerosol-forming matrix, such as a tobacco stick or tobacco rod, and when the aerosol-generating article is inserted into the aerosol generation device, a heater contained within the aerosol generation device is inserted into or positioned around the aerosol-forming matrix.

[0004] A heating element can be incorporated into an aerosol generating apparatus to generate inhalable vapor. Such an apparatus heats the aerosol generating matrix contained within an aerosol generating article without burning the aerosol generating matrix. In doing so, the aerosol generating matrix can generate an aerosol, which can then be delivered to a user.

[0005] Such aerosol-generating articles can be in the form of conventional cigarettes. In this case, the aerosol-generating matrix can be wrapped in cigarette paper. This method may be suitable when the aerosol-generating matrix comprises strands or strips of material (e.g., strands of cast tobacco or strands of shredded tobacco).

[0006] However, this method may not be effective in preserving other forms of aerosol generating matrix, such as particulate or powdered aerosol generating matrices. Such aerosol generating articles may be susceptible to leakage of the aerosol generating matrix during their storage, handling, and use. Leakage of the aerosol generating matrix can be exacerbated by high ambient temperatures and humidity. Loss of the aerosol generating matrix through leakage can adversely reduce the lifespan of aerosol generating articles that include the aerosol generating matrix. Leakage of the aerosol generating matrix can negatively impact the overall performance of the aerosol generating article. For example, leakage of the aerosol generating matrix can negatively affect the consistency of the inhalable aerosols generated by an aerosol generating system that includes the aerosol generating article.

[0007] To provide an aerosol generating article in which the loss or leakage of the aerosol generating matrix is ​​reduced or prevented even when the aerosol generating article is heated to the temperature required to generate aerosols from the aerosol generating matrix, an aerosol generating article comprising a container may be provided. Such an aerosol generating article may be able to retain different forms of the aerosol generating matrix, such as granular or powdered aerosol generating matrix. Such aerosol generating articles comprising containers can be easily handled and operated by the consumer when used with a suitable aerosol generating apparatus.

[0008] However, existing aerosol generation apparatuses may not be suitable for heating aerosol-generating articles including containers. For example, inserting a heating element into an aerosol-generating article including a container may adversely cause leakage of the aerosol-generating matrix from the container. Additionally, existing heaters configured to externally heat the aerosol-generating article may not provide sufficient heating to generate a consistent aerosol from the aerosol-generating article including a container.

[0009] There is a need for an aerosol generating apparatus suitable for use with an aerosol generating article, such as an aerosol generating article including a container.

[0010] Furthermore, during the use of existing aerosol generation systems, when used in conjunction with an aerosol generation device, some portions of the aerosol generation matrix of the aerosol generation article may receive less airflow than other portions of the aerosol generation matrix. For example, the aerosol generation device may be configured such that the airflow path through the aerosol generation device does not contact some portions of the aerosol generation matrix of the aerosol generation article. This can be a particular problem when the aerosol generation article includes a container, because the aerosol generation matrix may be distributed throughout the container.

[0011] As a result, when used with such an aerosol generating device, uneven consumption of the aerosol generating matrix may occur because air flows unevenly across all portions of the aerosol generating matrix. Consequently, a certain proportion of the aerosol generating matrix may not be used to generate aerosols. Furthermore, when used with an aerosol generating article, sufficient suction resistance may not be achieved through the aerosol generating device because the airflow path may only pass through a portion of the aerosol generating matrix.

[0012] As a result, when used with an aerosol generating device, the release of active ingredients (such as nicotine and flavoring, or both) from some portions of the aerosol generating matrix of the aerosol generating article into the aerosol can be reduced. Therefore, during the user experience, poor aerosol generation and delivery may occur when the portion of the aerosol generating matrix of the aerosol generating article that has the most contact with the airflow path through the aerosol generating device is depleted. The depletion of the portion of the aerosol generating matrix of the aerosol generating article that has the most contact with the airflow path through the aerosol generating device can be rapid. Therefore, particularly at the end of the user experience, poor aerosol generation and delivery to the user may occur. Summary of the Invention

[0013] There is a need for an aerosol generating apparatus configured such that aerosols can be generated using a larger proportion of an aerosol generating matrix from an aerosol generating article used with the aerosol generating apparatus.

[0014] There is a need for an aerosol generating apparatus that improves the release of active ingredients (such as nicotine and one or both of flavorings) from an aerosol generating article used with the aerosol generating apparatus into an aerosol. There is also a need for an aerosol generating apparatus that improves the delivery of active ingredients, such as nicotine and one or both of flavorings, from an aerosol generating article used with the aerosol generating apparatus to a user.

[0015] There is a need for an aerosol generating apparatus that can provide more consistent aerosol generation and delivery to users from aerosol generating articles used with the aerosol generating apparatus.

[0016] According to a first aspect of this disclosure, an aerosol generating apparatus is provided for use with an aerosol generating article. The aerosol generating article may include a container. The aerosol generating apparatus may include a recess for receiving the aerosol generating article. The aerosol generating apparatus may include a heater assembly configured to heat the aerosol generating article to generate an aerosol. The recess may include one or more air inlets and one or more aerosol outlets. An airflow path through the recess may be defined between the one or more air inlets and the one or more aerosol outlets. The shortest line connecting any one of the one or more air inlets to any one of the one or more aerosol outlets may not be parallel to the width of the recess. The shortest line connecting any one of the one or more air inlets to any one of the one or more aerosol outlets may not be parallel to the length of the recess. The shortest line connecting any one of the one or more air inlets to any one of the one or more aerosol outlets may not be parallel to the depth of the recess. The shortest line connecting any one of the one or more air inlets to any one of the one or more aerosol outlets may not be parallel to each of the width and length of the recess.

[0017] According to a first aspect of the invention, an aerosol generating apparatus is provided for use with an aerosol generating article. The aerosol generating apparatus includes a recess for receiving the aerosol generating article. The aerosol generating apparatus includes a heater assembly configured to heat the aerosol generating article to generate an aerosol. The recess includes one or more air inlets and one or more aerosol outlets. An airflow path through the recess is defined between the one or more air inlets and the one or more aerosol outlets. The shortest line connecting any one of the one or more air inlets to any one of the one or more aerosol outlets is not parallel to either the width or the length of the recess.

[0018] According to a particularly preferred embodiment of the first aspect of the invention, an aerosol generating apparatus is provided for use with an aerosol generating article including a container. The aerosol generating apparatus includes a recess for receiving the aerosol generating article. The aerosol generating apparatus includes a heater assembly configured to heat the aerosol generating article to generate an aerosol. The recess includes one or more air inlets and one or more aerosol outlets. An airflow path through the recess is defined between the one or more air inlets and the one or more aerosol outlets. The shortest line connecting any one of the one or more air inlets to any one of the one or more aerosol outlets is not parallel to each of the width, length, and depth of the recess.

[0019] Advantageously, setting the shortest line connecting any one of the one or more air inlets to any one of the one or more aerosol outlets to be non-parallel to each of the width and length of the recess can increase the length of the airflow path through the recess.

[0020] In a particularly preferred embodiment, it is advantageous to arrange the shortest line connecting any one of the one or more air inlets to any one of the one or more aerosol outlets as not parallel to each of the width, length, and depth of the recess, which can increase the length of the airflow path through the recess.

[0021] Advantageously, arranging the shortest line connecting any one of the one or more air inlets to any one of the one or more aerosol outlets as not parallel to either the width or the length of the recess increases the contact between the airflow through the aerosol generating device and the aerosol generating matrix of the aerosol generating article received in the recess. Advantageously, as a result, the suction resistance through the aerosol generating device can be increased when the aerosol generating article is received in the recess.

[0022] In a particularly preferred embodiment, advantageously, arranging the shortest line connecting any one of the one or more air inlets to any one of the one or more aerosol outlets as not parallel to each of the width, length, and depth of the recess increases the contact between the airflow through the aerosol generating device and the aerosol generating matrix of the aerosol generating article received in the recess. Advantageously, as a result, the suction resistance through the aerosol generating device can be increased when the aerosol generating article is received in the recess.

[0023] Advantageously, setting the shortest line connecting any one of the one or more air inlets to any one of the one or more aerosol outlets to be non-parallel to each of the width and length of the recess allows a larger proportion of the aerosol generating matrix received in the recess to be used for aerosol generation.

[0024] In a particularly preferred embodiment, it is advantageous to arrange the shortest line connecting any one of the one or more air inlets to any one of the one or more aerosol outlets as not parallel to each of the width, length, and depth of the recess, so that a larger proportion of the aerosol generating matrix received in the recess can be used to generate aerosols.

[0025] Advantageously, arranging the shortest line connecting any one of the one or more air inlets to any one of the one or more aerosol outlets as not parallel to either the width or the length of the recess can increase the release of active ingredients (such as nicotine and flavoring, or both) from the aerosol-generating matrix of the aerosol-generating article received within the recess into the aerosol. Advantageously, aerosol generation and delivery throughout the user experience can be improved. In particular, advantageously, aerosol generation and delivery at the end of the user experience can be improved.

[0026] In a particularly preferred embodiment, advantageously, the shortest line connecting any one of the one or more air inlets to any one of the one or more aerosol outlets is configured not to be parallel to each of the width, length, and depth of the recess. This can increase the release of active ingredients (such as one or both of nicotine and flavoring) from the aerosol-generating matrix of the aerosol-generating article received within the recess into the aerosol. Advantageously, aerosol generation and delivery can be improved throughout the user experience. In particular, advantageously, aerosol generation and delivery can be improved at the end of the user experience.

[0027] Advantageously, arranging the shortest line connecting any one of the one or more air inlets to any one of the one or more aerosol outlets as not parallel to either the width or the length of the recess can improve the release of active ingredients (such as nicotine and flavoring, or both) from the aerosol-generating matrix of the aerosol-generating article received within the recess into the aerosol. Advantageously, arranging the shortest line connecting any one of the one or more air inlets to any one of the one or more aerosol outlets as not parallel to either the width or the length of the recess can improve the delivery of active ingredients, such as nicotine and flavoring, from the aerosol-generating matrix of the aerosol-generating article received within the recess to the user.

[0028] In a particularly preferred embodiment, advantageously, the shortest line connecting any one of the one or more air inlets to any one of the one or more aerosol outlets is configured not to be parallel to each of the width, length, and depth of the recess, which can improve the release of the active ingredient (such as one or both of nicotine and flavoring) from the aerosol-generating matrix of the aerosol-generating article received within the recess into the aerosol. Advantageously, configuring the shortest line connecting any one of the one or more air inlets to any one of the one or more aerosol outlets is not parallel to each of the width, length, and depth of the recess, which can improve the delivery of the active ingredient, such as one or both of nicotine and flavoring, from the aerosol-generating matrix of the aerosol-generating article received within the recess to the user.

[0029] Advantageously, the shortest line connecting any one of the one or more air inlets to any one of the one or more aerosol outlets is configured not to be parallel to each of the width and length of the recess, which can provide more consistent aerosol generation and delivery to the user from the aerosol generating article received in the recess.

[0030] In a particularly preferred embodiment, it is advantageous to arrange the shortest line connecting any one of the one or more air inlets to any one of the one or more aerosol outlets as not parallel to each of the width, length, and depth of the recess, so as to provide more consistent aerosol generation and delivery to the user from the aerosol generating article received in the recess.

[0031] It should be understood that the feature "the shortest line connecting any one of the one or more air inlets to any one of the one or more aerosol outlets is not parallel to either the width or the length of the recess" means that there is no air inlet such that the shortest line connecting any one of the air inlets to any one of the aerosol outlets is parallel to the width of the recess, and there is no air inlet such that the shortest line connecting any one of the air inlets to any one of the aerosol outlets is parallel to the length of the recess. Therefore, this also means that the shortest line connecting any one of the one or more aerosol outlets to any one of the one or more aerosol inlets is not parallel to either the width or the length of the recess. In other words, it is possible that there is no line parallel to the width of the recess that intersects both the inlet and outlet of the recess, and it is possible that there is no line parallel to the length of the recess that intersects both the inlet and outlet of the recess. In other words, there may not be a straight line parallel to the width of the recess connecting the entrance and exit of the recess, and there may not be a straight line parallel to the length of the recess connecting the entrance and exit of the recess.

[0032] It should be understood that the feature "the shortest line connecting any one of the one or more air inlets to any one of the one or more aerosol outlets is not parallel to each of the width, length, and depth of the recess" means that there is no air inlet such that the shortest line connecting any one of the air inlets to any one of the aerosol outlets is parallel to the width of the recess, and there is no air inlet such that the shortest line connecting any one of the air inlets to any one of the aerosol outlets is parallel to the length of the recess, and there is no air inlet such that the shortest line connecting any one of the air inlets to any one of the aerosol outlets is parallel to the depth of the recess. Therefore, this also means that the shortest line connecting any one of the one or more aerosol outlets to any one of the one or more aerosol inlets is not parallel to each of the width, length, and depth of the recess. In other words, there may not be a line parallel to the width of the recess that intersects both the inlet and outlet of the recess, and there may not be a line parallel to the length of the recess that intersects both the inlet and outlet of the recess, and there may not be a line parallel to the depth of the recess that intersects both the inlet and outlet of the recess. In other words, there may not be a straight line parallel to the width of the recess connecting the inlet and outlet of the recess, and there may not be a straight line parallel to the length of the recess connecting the inlet and outlet of the recess, and there may not be a straight line parallel to the depth of the recess connecting the inlet and outlet of the recess.

[0033] The shortest line connecting any one of the one or more air inlets of the recess to any one of the one or more aerosol outlets may not be parallel to the longitudinal axis of one or both of the recess and the aerosol generating device. In other words, the one or more air inlets of the recess and the one or more aerosol outlets of the recess may be offset relative to the longitudinal axis of one or both of the recess and the aerosol generating device.

[0034] It should be understood that the terms "aerosol outlet" and "air outlet" are used interchangeably.

[0035] One or more air inlets may each include an opening having any suitable cross-sectional shape (e.g., a circular cross-sectional shape).

[0036] One or more aerosol outlets may each include an opening having any suitable cross-sectional shape (e.g., a circular cross-sectional shape).

[0037] As used herein with reference to this invention, the term "aerosol-generating matrix" refers to a matrix capable of releasing volatile compounds that can condense to form aerosols when heated.

[0038] As used herein with reference to this invention, the term "aerosol" refers to a dispersion of solid particles or droplets, or a combination of solid particles and droplets, in a gas. Aerosols can be visible or invisible. Aerosols may include vapors of substances that are typically liquid or solid at room temperature, as well as solid particles or droplets, or a combination of solid particles and droplets.

[0039] As used herein with reference to this invention, the term "aerosol-generating article" means an article comprising an aerosol-generating matrix capable of releasing volatile compounds that can form aerosols. Aerosol-generating articles may be disposable.

[0040] As used herein with reference to this invention, the term "aerosol generating apparatus" refers to an apparatus that interacts with an aerosol generating matrix of an aerosol generating article to generate an aerosol. In some instances, the aerosol generating apparatus heats the aerosol generating matrix to promote the release of volatile compounds from the matrix.

[0041] As used herein with reference to this invention, the term "aerosol generation system" refers to a combination of an aerosol generation device and an aerosol generation product.

[0042] As used herein, “longitudinal” refers to the direction of the main longitudinal axis corresponding to the aerosol generating device or part of the aerosol generating device, which extends between the upstream and downstream ends of the aerosol generating device or part of the aerosol generating device.

[0043] As used herein with reference to the present invention, the terms “upstream” and “downstream” describe the relative position of an element or portion of an element of an aerosol generating apparatus with respect to the direction in which aerosols are transported through the aerosol generating apparatus during use.

[0044] As used herein with reference to this invention, the term "length" is used to describe the maximum dimension of an element or part of an element of an aerosol generating article, aerosol generating apparatus, and aerosol generating system according to this disclosure. Length can be defined in the longitudinal direction or along the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generating apparatus. In particular, the length of a recess can refer to the maximum dimension of the recess.

[0045] As used herein with reference to this invention, the term "transverse" is used to describe a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction or length.

[0046] As used herein with reference to this invention, the term "width" is used to describe the maximum lateral dimension of an element or portion of an element in an aerosol generating article, aerosol generating apparatus, and aerosol generating system according to this disclosure. In particular, the width of a recess may refer to the lateral dimension of the recess. The width of a recess is perpendicular to its length.

[0047] As used herein with reference to this invention, the term "depth" for a recess is used to describe the dimension of an element or portion of an aerosol generating article, aerosol generating apparatus, or aerosol generating system, said dimension being defined as the length and width of the element or portion of the element or component perpendicular to the aerosol generating article, aerosol generating apparatus, or aerosol generating system. Reference to the "depth" of a component refers to the position of the component along an axis parallel to the depth. Specifically, the depth of a recess is perpendicular to the width and length of the recess.

[0048] As used herein with reference to this invention, the term "heater assembly" refers to an arrangement configured to generate heat for heating an aerosol-generating article received within a recess. The heater assembly may be an electric heater assembly.

[0049] One or more air inlets may be located at a different depth than one or more aerosol outlets. In other words, there may not be a plane perpendicular to the depth of the recess that intersects both the air inlets and aerosol outlets of the recess.

[0050] One or more air inlets of the recess may be located at a first depth, and one or more aerosol outlets of the recess may be located at a second depth. The first depth and the second depth may be different. In other words, one or more air inlets may be located in a first plane perpendicular to the depth of the recess, and one or more aerosol outlets may be located in a second plane perpendicular to the depth of the recess at different locations along the depth of the recess, such that the first plane and the second plane do not intersect.

[0051] Advantageously, positioning one or more air inlets at a recess depth different from one or more aerosol outlets can create airflow paths through the recesses at different recess depths, which can increase the length of the airflow path through the recesses.

[0052] One or more air inlets may be located at positions along the width of the recess that differ from one or more aerosol outlets. In other words, there may not be a plane perpendicular to the width of the recess that intersects both the air inlets and aerosol outlets of the recess.

[0053] One or more air inlets of the recess may be located at a first position along the width of the recess, and one or more aerosol outlets of the recess may be located at a second position along the width of the recess. The first and second positions along the width of the recess may be different. In other words, one or more air inlets may be located in a first plane perpendicular to the width of the recess, and one or more aerosol outlets may be located in a second plane perpendicular to the width of the recess at different positions along the width of the recess, such that the first and second planes do not intersect.

[0054] Advantageously, positioning one or more air inlets at locations different from one or more aerosol outlets along the width of the recess can create airflow paths through the recess between different locations along the width of the recess, which can increase the length of the airflow path through the recess.

[0055] The one or more air inlets of the recess may consist of a single air inlet. Alternatively, the one or more air inlets of the recess may include multiple air inlets. For example, the one or more air inlets of the recess may include two or more air inlets, three or more air inlets, four or more air inlets, five or more air inlets, or ten or more air inlets. For example, the one or more air inlets of the recess may include twelve or more air inlets, eight or more air inlets, six or more air inlets, five or more air inlets, four or more air inlets, or three or more air inlets.

[0056] The one or more aerosol outlets in the recess may consist of a single aerosol outlet. Alternatively, the one or more aerosol outlets in the recess may include multiple aerosol outlets. For example, the one or more aerosol outlets in the recess may include two or more aerosol outlets, three or more aerosol outlets, four or more aerosol outlets, five or more aerosol outlets, or ten or more aerosol outlets. For example, the one or more aerosol outlets in the recess may include twelve or more aerosol outlets, eight or more aerosol outlets, six or more aerosol outlets, five or more aerosol outlets, four or more aerosol outlets, or three or more aerosol outlets.

[0057] The recess may include a single air inlet and multiple aerosol outlets. Alternatively, the recess may include multiple air inlets and a single aerosol outlet.

[0058] The recess may include multiple air inlets and multiple aerosol outlets. Alternatively, the recess may include a single air inlet and a single aerosol outlet.

[0059] Advantageously, providing one or both of a plurality of air inlets and a plurality of aerosol outlets can increase the contact between the airflow through the aerosol generating device and the aerosol generating matrix of the aerosol generating article received in the recess.

[0060] Each of the one or more aerosol outlets in the recess may have a larger diameter than each of the one or more air inlets in the recess.

[0061] Advantageously, setting each of the one or more aerosol outlets in the recess to have a larger diameter than each of the one or more air inlets in the recess allows the one or more air inlets to provide sufficient suction resistance during use, so that the one or more aerosol outlets can be large enough to prevent undesirable premature condensation of the aerosol.

[0062] The recess may have a length of at least 10 mm. For example, the recess may have a length of at least 12 mm, at least 14 mm, at least 16 mm, or at least 18 mm.

[0063] The recess may have a length not exceeding 30 mm. For example, the recess may have a length not exceeding 28 mm, 25 mm, 20 mm, or 18 mm.

[0064] The recess may have a length between about 10 mm and about 30 mm, between about 12 mm and about 28 mm, between about 14 mm and about 25 mm, or between about 20 mm and about 16 mm.

[0065] The recess may have a length of approximately 14 mm. The recess may have a length of approximately 16 mm. The recess may have a length of approximately 18 mm.

[0066] The heater assembly may include a resistance heating element. During use, current can be supplied to the resistance heating element to generate heat through resistance heating to heat the aerosol-generated article received within the recess.

[0067] Suitable materials for forming resistance heating elements include, but are not limited to: semiconductors (such as doped ceramics), electrically "conductive" ceramics (such as molybdenum disilicide), carbon, graphite, metals, metal alloys, and composite materials made of ceramic and metallic materials. Such composite materials may include doped or undoped ceramics. Examples of suitable doped ceramics include doped silicon carbide. Examples of suitable metals include titanium, zirconium, tantalum, and platinum group metals. Examples of suitable metal alloys include stainless steel, nickel-containing alloys, cobalt-containing alloys, chromium-containing alloys, aluminum-containing alloys, titanium-containing alloys, zirconium-containing alloys, hafnium-containing alloys, niobium-containing alloys, molybdenum-containing alloys, tantalum-containing alloys, tungsten-containing alloys, tin-containing alloys, gallium-containing alloys, manganese-containing alloys, and iron-containing alloys, and superalloys based on nickel, iron, cobalt, stainless steel, Timetal®, and iron-manganese-aluminum based alloys.

[0068] The heater assembly may include an induction heating element. During use, the induction heating element may inductively heat at least one sensor material to heat an aerosol-generating article received within the recess. The induction heating element may include at least one sensor coil extending around at least a portion of the recess.

[0069] The aerosol generating apparatus may also include a planar wall. The planar wall and the recess can define a heating chamber.

[0070] The planar wall can be a heated wall. A heated wall may include a heater configured to heat an aerosol-generating article received within a recess to generate an aerosol. A heated wall may include a resistance heating element or an induction heating element. A heating assembly may include a heated wall.

[0071] The distance between one or more air inlets of the recess and the planar wall can be less than the distance between one or more aerosol outlets of the recess and the planar wall. In other words, one or more air inlets of the recess can be closer to the planar wall than one or more aerosol outlets of the recess.

[0072] Advantageously, setting the distance between one or more air inlets of the recess and the plane wall to be smaller than the distance between one or more aerosol outlets of the recess and the plane wall can increase the length of the airflow path through the recess.

[0073] Alternatively, the distance between one or more aerosol outlets of the recess and the planar wall can be less than the distance between one or more air inlets of the recess and the planar wall. In other words, the one or more aerosol outlets of the recess can be closer to the planar wall than the one or more air inlets of the recess.

[0074] Advantageously, setting the distance between one or more aerosol outlets of the recess and the plane wall to be smaller than the distance between one or more air inlets of the recess and the plane wall can increase the length of the airflow path through the recess.

[0075] The recess may include a bottom wall and at least one side wall. The bottom wall and at least one side wall of the recess, as well as the planar wall, may define a heating chamber.

[0076] One or more aerosol outlets of the recess may be provided in at least one sidewall of the recess.

[0077] One or more air inlets of the recess may be provided in at least one sidewall of the recess.

[0078] For example, one or more air inlets and one or more aerosol outlets may be provided in at least one sidewall of the recess.

[0079] At least one sidewall of the recess may include an upstream sidewall and a downstream sidewall. One or more air inlets may be provided in the upstream sidewall. One or more aerosol outlets may be provided in the downstream sidewall.

[0080] The distance between one or more aerosol outlets of the recess and the bottom wall can be less than the distance between one or more air inlets of the recess and the bottom wall. In other words, one or more aerosol outlets of the recess can be closer to the bottom wall than one or more air inlets of the recess.

[0081] Advantageously, setting the distance between one or more aerosol outlets of the recess and the bottom wall to be smaller than the distance between one or more air inlets of the recess and the bottom wall can increase the length of the airflow path through the recess.

[0082] Alternatively, the distance between one or more air inlets of the recess and the bottom wall may be less than the distance between one or more aerosol outlets of the recess and the bottom wall. In other words, the one or more air inlets of the recess may be closer to the bottom wall than the one or more aerosol outlets of the recess.

[0083] Advantageously, setting the distance between one or more air inlets of the recess and the bottom wall to be smaller than the distance between one or more aerosol outlets of the recess and the bottom wall can increase the length of the airflow path through the recess.

[0084] One or more air inlets of the recess may be located in the bottom wall of the recess. Alternatively, one or more aerosol outlets of the recess may be located in the bottom wall of the recess.

[0085] The recess may include one or more air inlets in the form of multiple openings in the bottom wall of the recess. Alternatively, the recess may include one or more aerosol outlets in the form of multiple openings in the bottom wall of the recess.

[0086] One or more air inlets of the recess may be disposed in the bottom wall of the recess, and one or more aerosol outlets of the recess may be disposed in at least one side wall of the recess. For example, one or more air inlets of the recess may include a plurality of air inlets disposed in the bottom wall of the recess, and one or more aerosol outlets of the recess may be disposed in the downstream side wall of the recess.

[0087] Advantageously, providing multiple air inlets in the bottom wall of the recess can increase the contact between the airflow through the aerosol generating device and the aerosol generating matrix of the aerosol generating article received in the recess.

[0088] The aerosol generating apparatus may include an apparatus housing. The apparatus housing may include a first apparatus housing portion and a second apparatus housing portion. The second apparatus housing portion may be movable relative to the first apparatus housing portion. The second apparatus housing portion may be slidable relative to the first apparatus housing portion.

[0089] The second device housing portion may include a recess. The second device housing portion may be movable relative to the first device housing portion between a closed position in which the recess is substantially closed by the first device housing portion and an open position that allows access to the interior of the recess.

[0090] The first device housing portion may include a planar wall. The first device housing portion may include a heating wall. In the closed position, the heating wall of the first device housing portion may come into contact with the aerosol-generating article received in the recess.

[0091] The aerosol generating apparatus may also include a pressure sensor for detecting the airflow passing through the apparatus.

[0092] The first device housing portion may include a pressure sensor, and the second device housing portion may include a recess. A sealed air passage may be provided between the first and second device housing portions. The pressure sensor can measure the pressure passing through the sealed air passage.

[0093] Advantageously, providing a first housing portion including a pressure sensor and a second housing portion including a recess allows electrical components associated with the pressure sensor to be housed in the first housing portion. Advantageously, this reduces the electrical connections required between the first and second housing portions. Advantageously, this simplifies the connection between the first and second housing portions.

[0094] Alternatively, the second device housing portion may include a pressure sensor and a recess. The pressure sensor may be housed in a sensor holder.

[0095] Advantageously, providing a second device housing portion including a pressure sensor and a recess improves the seal of the pressure sensor relative to the location in the second device housing portion where the pressure sensor measures pressure. Advantageously, this can improve the accuracy of measurements performed by the pressure sensor.

[0096] The aerosol generating device may include a contact sensor configured to detect when a second device housing portion is in a closed position relative to a first device housing portion.

[0097] Preferably, the second device housing portion includes a contact sensor. Preferably, the second device housing portion includes both a pressure sensor and a contact sensor.

[0098] It should be understood that the contact sensor can be any sensor configured to generate an electrical signal when the second device housing portion is in a closed position relative to the first device housing portion, such as a conductive pin on the second device housing portion configured to contact a conductive area on the first device housing portion.

[0099] Advantageously, providing a contact sensor configured to detect when the second device housing portion is in a closed position relative to the first device housing portion can improve control of the aerosol generating apparatus, such as control of the heating element, and can improve the accuracy and reliability of other sensors (if present, such as pressure sensors).

[0100] In addition to one or more air inlets in the recess, the aerosol generating apparatus may also include a device air inlet for allowing air to enter the aerosol generating apparatus. The device air inlet of the aerosol generating apparatus may be in fluid communication with the air inlet in the recess. The device air inlet may be located on a first device housing portion or a second device housing portion.

[0101] In addition to one or more aerosol outlets in the recess, the aerosol generating apparatus may also include a device aerosol outlet for allowing aerosols to exit the aerosol generating apparatus. The aerosol generating apparatus may include a mouthpiece located at a downstream end of the aerosol generating apparatus. The mouthpiece may be configured as part of a second device housing portion. The mouthpiece may be removably attached to the second device housing portion. The device aerosol outlet may be located at the mouthpiece. The device aerosol outlet may be in fluid communication with the aerosol outlet in the recess.

[0102] The pressure sensor can be configured to measure the pressure change between the air inlet of the device and one or more air inlets in the recess.

[0103] Advantageously, configuring a pressure sensor to measure pressure changes between the device's air inlet and one or more air inlets in the recess can reduce the risk of condensation along the airflow path measured by the pressure sensor. Advantageously, configuring a pressure sensor to measure pressure changes between the device's air inlet and one or more air inlets in the recess can reduce the complexity of the pressure sensor arrangement.

[0104] The pressure sensor can be configured to measure the pressure change between the air inlet of the device and one or more aerosol outlets in the recess.

[0105] Advantageously, configuring the pressure sensor to measure the pressure change between the air inlet of the device and one or more aerosol outlets in the recess can improve the reliability of measurements performed by the pressure sensor.

[0106] The aerosol generating apparatus may also include a power source. The power source may be located within the apparatus housing. Alternatively, the power source may be located within the first apparatus housing portion.

[0107] The power source can be a DC power source. It can also be a battery. Specifically, it can be a nickel-metal hydride battery, a nickel-cadmium battery, or a lithium-based battery, such as a lithium-cobalt battery, a lithium-iron-phosphate battery, or a lithium polymer battery. Alternatively, it can be another form of charge storage device, such as a capacitor. The power source may require recharging and may have a capacity that allows for the storage of sufficient energy for one or more user operations (e.g., one or more aerosol generation experiences).

[0108] The aerosol generating apparatus may also include a controller. The controller may be arranged, for example, to control the power supply from a power source to the heater assembly in response to a measurement of the airflow through the aerosol generating apparatus indicated by a pressure sensor. The controller may be located within the apparatus housing. The controller may be located within a first apparatus housing portion.

[0109] The aerosol generation apparatus may include a temperature sensor. The temperature sensor may detect the temperature of the heater assembly or receive the temperature of the aerosol-generated article within the recess. The controller may be configured to control the power supply from the power source to the heater assembly based on measurements taken by the temperature sensor.

[0110] According to a second aspect of the present invention, an aerosol generation system is provided, comprising: an aerosol generation apparatus according to a first aspect of the present invention; and an aerosol generation article.

[0111] The aerosol-generated product can be received in the recess of the aerosol-generating device.

[0112] Aerosol-generated products can be any type of aerosol-generated product.

[0113] The aerosol-generating article may include a container. The container may include a first wall and a second wall. The first wall and the second wall may together define a matrix compartment. The aerosol-generating matrix may be disposed within the matrix compartment.

[0114] The first wall may contain a different material than the second wall. The first wall may contain a flexible cellulose-based material. The second wall may have higher stiffness than the first wall. Alternatively, the first wall may have higher stiffness than the second wall.

[0115] At least a portion of the first wall may be porous. As used herein with reference to the present invention, the term "cellulose-based material" refers to a material made of cellulose or a derivative of cellulose.

[0116] The first wall can include any cellulosic material. The first wall can also include nonwoven materials.

[0117] As used herein with reference to this invention, the term "nonwoven" refers to a manufactured sheet, web, or wadding of oriented or randomly oriented fibers bonded together by friction, and / or cohesion and / or adhesion, excluding products formed by weaving, braiding, tufting, stitching (with the incorporation of bonding yarns or filaments), or by wet felting (whether or not additionally needle-punched). The fibers may be of natural or synthetic origin.

[0118] The first wall may include molded paper material.

[0119] The second wall may be non-porous. The second wall may comprise a substantially planar material. The second wall may comprise a paper material.

[0120] The aerosol-generating matrix may contain at least one alkaloid.

[0121] As used herein with reference to this invention, the term "alkaloid compound" is used to describe any of a class of naturally occurring organic compounds containing one or more basic nitrogen atoms. Typically, alkaloids contain at least one nitrogen atom in an amine-type structure. This or other nitrogen atom in the alkaloid compound molecule can function as a base in acid-base reactions. In most alkaloid compounds, one or more of the nitrogen atoms are part of a cyclic system, such as a heterocycle. In nature, alkaloid compounds are primarily found in plants, and are particularly common in certain flowering plant families. However, some alkaloid compounds are found in animal species and fungi. In the context of this invention, the term "alkaloid compound" is used to describe alkaloid compounds of natural origin and synthetically manufactured alkaloid compounds. Suitable alkaloid compounds for use in aerosol generating elements according to the invention include, but are not limited to, nicotine and neonicotinoids.

[0122] In a preferred embodiment, the aerosol generating matrix contains nicotine or neonicotinoids.

[0123] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the aerosol generating matrix contains nicotine.

[0124] As used herein with reference to this invention, the term "nicotine" is used to describe nicotine, nicotine base, or nicotine salt. In embodiments where the aerosol generating matrix comprises nicotine base or nicotine salt, the amount of nicotine described herein is either the amount of free base nicotine or the amount of protonated nicotine.

[0125] The aerosol-generating matrix may contain natural or synthetic nicotine.

[0126] The aerosol-generating matrix may contain one or more monoprotic nicotine salts.

[0127] As used herein with reference to this invention, the term "monoproton nicotine salt" is used to describe nicotine salts of monoproton acids.

[0128] The aerosol-generating matrix may contain nicotine.

[0129] The aerosol generating matrix may contain an aerosol forming agent. The aerosol generating matrix may contain any amount of aerosol forming agent. The aerosol generating matrix may contain at least 50% by weight, at least 60% by weight, or at least 70% by weight of the aerosol forming agent. The aerosol generating matrix may contain approximately 80% by weight of the aerosol forming agent.

[0130] The aerosol-generating matrix may contain polyols.

[0131] Polyols act as aerosol forming agents in aerosol-generating matrices. Suitable polyols for use in aerosol-generating matrices include, but are not limited to, propylene glycol, triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol, and glycerol. Preferably, the polyol is selected from glycerol, propylene glycol, and combinations thereof. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the polyol is glycerol.

[0132] The aerosol generating matrix may include particles. The particles may have any diameter. The aerosol generating matrix may include particles with diameters greater than or equal to 100 micrometers, greater than or equal to 250 micrometers, or greater than or equal to 500 micrometers.

[0133] The aerosol generating matrix may include particles with a diameter of 5 mm or less, 4 mm or less, or 3 mm or less.

[0134] Aerosol-generating matrices may include particles with diameters between 500 micrometers and 3 millimeters. Aerosol-generating matrices may also include particles with a diameter of approximately 1.5 millimeters.

[0135] The matrix compartment can hold any mass of aerosol generation matrix. For example, the matrix compartment can hold at least 80 mg of aerosol generation matrix, at least 85 mg of aerosol generation matrix, or at least 90 mg of aerosol generation matrix.

[0136] The matrix compartment can hold no more than 300 mg of aerosol generation matrix, no more than 250 mg of aerosol generation matrix, or no more than 200 mg of aerosol generation matrix.

[0137] The matrix compartment can hold aerosol generation matrix between 80 mg and 300 mg, between 85 mg and 250 mg, and between 100 mg and 200 mg.

[0138] 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.

[0139] Example Ex1: An aerosol generating apparatus for use with an aerosol generating article, the aerosol generating apparatus comprising:

[0140] The recess is used to receive the aerosol-generated article.

[0141] A heater assembly configured to heat the aerosol-generating article to generate an aerosol.

[0142] The recess includes one or more air inlets and one or more aerosol outlets, and the airflow path through the recess is defined between the one or more air inlets and the one or more aerosol outlets.

[0143] Preferably, the shortest line connecting any one of the one or more air inlets to any one of the one or more aerosol outlets is not parallel to either the width or the length of the recess, wherein the shortest line connecting any one of the one or more air inlets to any one of the one or more aerosol outlets is not parallel to the depth of the recess.

[0144] Example Ex2: According to the aerosol generating apparatus of Example Ex1, the depth of the recess is defined as perpendicular to the length and width of the recess, and one or more air inlets of the recess are at a first depth, and one or more aerosol outlets of the recess are at a second depth, and the first depth and the second depth are different.

[0145] Example Ex3: An aerosol generating apparatus according to Example Ex1 or Ex2, wherein the aerosol generating apparatus further includes a planar wall, and wherein the planar wall and the recess define a heating chamber.

[0146] Example Ex4: According to the aerosol generating apparatus of Example Ex3, the distance between one or more air inlets of the recess and the plane wall is less than the distance between one or more aerosol outlets of the recess and the plane wall.

[0147] Example Ex5: According to the aerosol generating apparatus of Example Ex3, the distance between one or more aerosol outlets of the recess and the planar wall is less than the distance between one or more air inlets of the recess and the planar wall.

[0148] Example Ex6: An aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex5, wherein the recess includes a bottom wall and at least one side wall.

[0149] Example Ex7: According to the aerosol generating apparatus of Example Ex6, one or more aerosol outlets of the recess are disposed in at least one sidewall of the recess.

[0150] Example Ex8: An aerosol generating apparatus according to Example Ex6 or Ex7, wherein one or more air inlets of the recess are disposed in at least one sidewall of the recess.

[0151] Example Ex9: An aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of Examples Ex6 to Ex8, wherein one or more air inlets of the recess are disposed in the bottom wall of the recess.

[0152] Example Ex10: An aerosol generating apparatus according to Example Ex9, wherein one or more air inlets of the recess include a plurality of air inlets in the form of a plurality of openings in the bottom wall of the recess.

[0153] Example Ex11: An aerosol generating apparatus according to any of the foregoing examples, wherein the aerosol generating apparatus includes an apparatus housing, the apparatus housing including a first apparatus housing portion and a second apparatus housing portion, wherein the second apparatus housing portion is movable relative to the first apparatus housing portion.

[0154] Example Ex12: The aerosol generating apparatus according to Example Ex11 further includes a pressure sensor for detecting the airflow through the apparatus.

[0155] Example Ex13: An aerosol generating apparatus according to Example Ex12, wherein the first apparatus housing portion includes the pressure sensor, and the second apparatus housing portion includes the recess.

[0156] Example Ex14: The aerosol generating apparatus according to Example Ex13 further includes a sealed air passage between the first apparatus housing portion and the second apparatus housing portion, wherein the pressure sensor measures the pressure through the sealed air passage.

[0157] Example Ex15: An aerosol generating apparatus according to Example Ex12, wherein the second apparatus housing portion includes the pressure sensor and the recess.

[0158] Example Ex16: An aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of Examples Ex12 to Ex15, wherein the aerosol generating apparatus further includes a device air inlet for allowing air to enter the aerosol generating apparatus, and wherein the pressure sensor is configured to measure the pressure change between the device air inlet and one or more air inlets of the recess.

[0159] Example Ex17: An aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of Examples Ex12 to Ex15, wherein the aerosol generating apparatus further includes a device air inlet for allowing air to enter the aerosol generating apparatus, and wherein the pressure sensor is configured to measure the pressure change between the device air inlet and one or more aerosol outlets of the recess.

[0160] Example Ex18: An aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of Examples Ex11 to Ex17, wherein the second apparatus housing portion is slidable relative to the first apparatus housing portion.

[0161] Example Ex19: An aerosol generating apparatus according to any of the preceding examples, wherein each of the one or more aerosol outlets of the recess has a larger diameter than each of the one or more air inlets of the recess.

[0162] Example Ex20: An aerosol generation system, comprising:

[0163] Aerosol generating apparatus according to any of the foregoing examples; and

[0164] Aerosol-generated products.

[0165] Example Ex21: An aerosol generation system according to Example Ex20, wherein the aerosol generation article includes a container.

[0166] Example Ex22: An aerosol generation system according to Example Ex21, wherein the container includes a first wall and a second wall, the first wall comprising a material different from the second wall, the first wall and the second wall together defining a matrix compartment, and an aerosol generation matrix disposed in the matrix compartment, wherein the first wall comprises a flexible cellulose-based material, and wherein the second wall has higher stiffness than the first wall. Attached Figure Description

[0167] The invention will now be further described by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0168] Figure 1 This is a cross-sectional view of the aerosol generating apparatus according to the present invention.

[0169] Figure 2 This is a perspective view of the recess of the aerosol generating apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0170] Figure 3 This is a perspective view of the recess of the aerosol generating apparatus according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0171] Figure 4 This is a perspective view of the recess of the aerosol generating apparatus according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0172] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating article according to the present invention for use with an aerosol generating apparatus.

[0173] Figure 6 It includes Figure 2 aerosol generation device and Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of the aerosol generation system for the aerosol-generated product. Detailed Implementation

[0174] Figure 1A cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating apparatus 100 according to the present invention is shown. The aerosol generating apparatus 100 is intended for use with aerosol generating articles (…). Figure 1 (Not shown in the image) Used together. The device 100 includes a device housing 101. The device housing 101 includes a first device housing portion 102 and a second device housing portion 103. The second device housing portion 103 is movable relative to the first device housing portion 102. The second device housing portion 103 includes a recess 104 for receiving an aerosol-generated article.

[0175] The aerosol generating apparatus 100 includes a planar wall 105. The planar wall 105 and the recess 104 define a heating chamber.

[0176] The device housing 101 includes a heater assembly 106 configured to heat the aerosol-generating article when it is received in the recess 104.

[0177] The device housing 101 includes a device air inlet (not shown). The device housing 101 includes a pressure sensor 107 for detecting the airflow through the aerosol generating device 100. In particular, the first device housing portion 102 includes the pressure sensor 107. However, it should be understood that the pressure sensor may alternatively be located in the second device housing portion 103.

[0178] Recess 104 includes one or more air inlets and one or more aerosol outlets. Figure 1 (Not shown in the image).

[0179] The mouthpiece 108 is located at the downstream end of the aerosol generating device 100, and the mouthpiece 108 includes the device aerosol outlet (not shown).

[0180] Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of a recess 204 in an aerosol generating apparatus 200 according to a first embodiment of the present invention is shown. The aerosol generating apparatus 200 includes the portion described above for... Figure 1 All features of the aerosol generating device 100 are described.

[0181] The recess 204 includes an air inlet 211 and an aerosol outlet 212.

[0182] The width 221, length 222, and depth 223 of the recess 204 are shown.

[0183] The shortest line 224 connecting air inlet 211 and aerosol outlet 212 is not parallel to the width 221 of recess 204. The shortest line 224 connecting air inlet 211 and aerosol outlet 212 is not parallel to the length 222 of recess 204. The shortest line 224 connecting air inlet 211 and aerosol outlet 212 is not parallel to the depth 223 of recess 204.

[0184] Air inlet 211 is at a first depth, and aerosol outlet 212 is at a second depth. The first depth and the second depth are different.

[0185] The recess 204 includes a bottom wall 205 and a side wall. The side wall includes an upstream side wall 206 and a downstream side wall 207.

[0186] An air inlet 211 is located in the upstream sidewall 206. An aerosol outlet 212 is located in the downstream sidewall 207.

[0187] The distance between the aerosol outlet 212 and the bottom wall 205 is less than the distance between the air inlet 211 and the bottom wall 205.

[0188] The distance between the air inlet 211 and the planar wall (not shown) is less than the distance between the aerosol outlet 212 and the planar wall.

[0189] Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of a recess 304 in an aerosol generating apparatus 300 according to a second embodiment of the present invention is shown. The aerosol generating apparatus 300 includes the portion described above for... Figure 1 All features of the aerosol generating device 100 are described.

[0190] The recess 304 includes an air inlet 311 and an aerosol outlet 312.

[0191] The width 321, length 322, and depth 323 of the recess 304 are shown.

[0192] The shortest line 324 connecting the air inlet 311 and the aerosol outlet 312 is not parallel to the width 321 of the recess 304. The shortest line 324 connecting the air inlet 311 and the aerosol outlet 312 is not parallel to the length 322 of the recess 304. The shortest line 324 connecting the air inlet 311 and the aerosol outlet 312 is not parallel to the depth 323 of the recess 304.

[0193] Air inlet 311 is at a first depth, and aerosol outlet 312 is at a second depth. The first depth and the second depth are different.

[0194] The recess 304 includes a bottom wall 305 and a side wall. The side wall includes an upstream side wall 306 and a downstream side wall 307.

[0195] An air inlet 311 is located in the upstream sidewall 306. An aerosol outlet 312 is located in the downstream sidewall 307.

[0196] The distance between the air inlet 311 and the bottom wall 305 is less than the distance between the aerosol outlet 312 and the bottom wall 305.

[0197] The distance between the aerosol outlet 312 and the planar wall (not shown) is less than the distance between the air inlet 311 and the planar wall.

[0198] Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of a recess 404 in an aerosol generating apparatus 400 according to a second embodiment of the present invention is shown. The aerosol generating apparatus 400 includes the portion described above for... Figure 1 All features of the aerosol generating device 100 are described.

[0199] The recess 404 includes a plurality of air inlets, including a first air inlet 411, a second air inlet 412 and a third air inlet 413.

[0200] The recess 404 includes a single aerosol outlet 414.

[0201] The width 421, length 422, and depth 423 of the recess 404 are shown.

[0202] The shortest line connecting any one of the multiple air inlets to the aerosol outlet 414 is not parallel to each of the width 421 and the length 422 of the recess 404.

[0203] In other words, the shortest line 424 connecting the first air inlet 411 and the aerosol outlet 414 is not parallel to the width 421 of the recess 404, and the shortest line 424 connecting the first air inlet 411 and the aerosol outlet 414 is not parallel to the length 422 of the recess 404. Furthermore, the shortest line 425 connecting the second air inlet 412 and the aerosol outlet 414 is not parallel to the width 421 of the recess 404, and the shortest line 425 connecting the second air inlet 412 and the aerosol outlet 414 is not parallel to the length 422 of the recess 404. Additionally, the shortest line 426 connecting the third air inlet 413 and the aerosol outlet 414 is not parallel to the width 421 of the recess 404, and the shortest line 426 connecting the third air inlet 413 and the aerosol outlet 414 is not parallel to the length 422 of the recess 404.

[0204] The shortest line connecting any one of the multiple air inlets to the aerosol outlet 414 is not parallel to the depth 423 of the recess 404.

[0205] The first air inlet 411, the second air inlet 412, and the third air inlet 413 are located at a first depth, and the aerosol outlet 414 is located at a second depth. The first depth and the second depth are different.

[0206] The recess 404 includes a bottom wall 405 and a side wall. The side wall includes an upstream side wall 406 and a downstream side wall 407.

[0207] The first air inlet 411, the second air inlet 412, and the third air inlet 413 are disposed in the bottom wall 405. The aerosol outlet 414 is disposed in the downstream side wall 407.

[0208] The distance between the aerosol outlet 414 and the planar wall (not shown) is less than the distance between the air inlet and the planar wall. Specifically, the distance between the aerosol outlet 414 and the planar wall is less than the distance between the first air inlet 411 and the planar wall. The distance between the aerosol outlet 414 and the planar wall is less than the distance between the second air inlet 412 and the planar wall. The distance between the aerosol outlet 414 and the planar wall is less than the distance between the third air inlet 413 and the planar wall.

[0209] Figure 5 An aerosol generating article 500 for use with the aerosol generating apparatus of the present invention is shown. It should be understood that this aerosol generating article can be used with any embodiment of the aerosol generating apparatus discussed herein.

[0210] The aerosol generating article 500 includes a container 510. The container 510 includes a first wall 511 and a second wall 512, which together define a matrix compartment 513. An aerosol generating matrix 514 is disposed in the matrix compartment 513.

[0211] exist Figure 5 In the example shown, the first wall 511 is formed of a nonwoven cotton material. The first wall 511 comprises between 85% and 90% by weight of cellulose, between 7% and 16% by weight of hemicellulose, and between 1% and 3% by weight of lignin. The first wall 511 is porous.

[0212] The second wall 512 comprises paper. The second wall 512 has a basis weight of approximately 35 gsm. The second wall 512 is non-porous.

[0213] The second wall 512 is basically planar. The second wall 512 has higher rigidity than the first wall 511. In this way, the first wall 511 can be substantially formed into a bag shape closed by the second wall 512.

[0214] Aerosol generating matrix 514 is disposed in matrix compartment 513. Aerosol generating matrix 514 comprises homogenized tobacco material particles and an aerosol forming agent. The aerosol forming agent comprises glycerol. Matrix compartment 513 contains approximately 150 mg of aerosol generating matrix 514.

[0215] Figure 6 An aerosol generating system 600 is shown, comprising an aerosol generating article 500 and an aerosol generating apparatus 200. Only a portion of the aerosol generating apparatus 200 is shown.

[0216] In use, heater assembly 216 heats aerosol generating matrix 514 to generate aerosol. Air enters aerosol generating apparatus 200 through device air inlet (not shown). The air then enters recess 204 through air inlet 211 and passes through porous first wall 511 into matrix compartment 513, where it carries aerosol. The air and aerosol then exit matrix compartment 513 through porous first wall 511 and exit recess 204 through aerosol outlet 212. The airflow path defined between air inlet 211 and aerosol outlet 212 involves air flowing through the recess between a first depth of air inlet 211 and a second depth of aerosol outlet 212. The aerosol then exits aerosol generating apparatus 200 at its downstream end through device aerosol outlet of a mouthpiece (not shown). The user then inhales the aerosol.

[0217] For the purposes of this specification and the appended claims, unless otherwise stated, all figures representing quantities, quantities, percentages, etc., shall be understood to be modified by the term "about" in all cases. Thus, in this context, the figure A is understood to be A ± 10% of A. In this context, the figure A may be considered to include a value within the general standard error for the measurement of the property modified by the figure A. In certain instances used in the appended claims, the figure A may deviate from the percentages listed above, provided that the amount of deviation from A does not materially affect the essential and novel features of the claimed invention. Furthermore, all ranges include the disclosed maximum and minimum points, and include any intermediate ranges therein, which may or may not be specifically listed herein.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating apparatus for use with an aerosol generating article including a container, the aerosol generating apparatus comprising: The recess is used to receive the aerosol-generated article. A heater assembly configured to heat the aerosol-generating article to generate an aerosol. The recess includes one or more air inlets and one or more aerosol outlets, and the airflow path through the recess is defined between the one or more air inlets and the one or more aerosol outlets. The shortest line connecting any one of the one or more air inlets to any one of the one or more aerosol outlets is not parallel to each of the width, length, and depth of the recess.

2. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein one or more air inlets of the recess are at a first depth, and one or more aerosol outlets of the recess are at a second depth, and wherein the first depth and the second depth are different.

3. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the aerosol generating apparatus further comprises a planar wall, and wherein the planar wall and the recess define a heating chamber.

4. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the distance between one or more air inlets of the recess and the planar wall is less than the distance between one or more aerosol outlets of the recess and the planar wall.

5. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the distance between one or more aerosol outlets of the recess and the planar wall is less than the distance between one or more air inlets of the recess and the planar wall.

6. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the recess comprises a bottom wall and at least one side wall.

7. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 6, wherein one or more aerosol outlets of the recess are disposed in at least one sidewall of the recess.

8. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 6 or claim 7, wherein one or more air inlets of the recess are disposed in at least one sidewall of the recess.

9. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of claims 6 to 8, wherein one or more air inlets of the recess are disposed in the bottom wall of the recess.

10. The aerosol generating apparatus of claim 9, wherein one or more air inlets of the recess comprise a plurality of air inlets in the form of a plurality of openings in the bottom wall of the recess.

11. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the aerosol generating apparatus includes an apparatus housing, the apparatus housing including a first apparatus housing portion and a second apparatus housing portion, wherein the second apparatus housing portion is movable relative to the first apparatus housing portion.

12. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 11, further comprising a pressure sensor for detecting the airflow passing through the apparatus.

13. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein each of the one or more aerosol outlets of the recess has a larger diameter than each of the one or more air inlets of the recess.

14. An aerosol generation system, comprising: Aerosol generating apparatus according to any of the preceding claims; as well as Aerosol-generated products.

15. The aerosol generation system of claim 14, wherein the aerosol generation article includes a container.

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