Mouthpiece portion of an aerosol generating device

Abstract

A mouthpiece portion (100) of an aerosol generating device (1) is disclosed, comprising: an air inlet (110) arranged to receive an aerosol; at least one air outlet (118, 120) and an air channel (112), the air channel configured to couple the air inlet to the air outlet to enable a user to inhale aerosol from the at least one air outlet; and a mechanism (114) adjustable from a first configuration configured to cause airflow to exit the at least one air outlet in a first pattern (B) during use to a second configuration configured to cause airflow to exit the at least one air outlet in a second pattern (C) during use that is different to the first pattern; wherein, in at least the first configuration, the at least one air outlet and / or the air channel are shaped to split the airflow into at least two substantial flow paths exiting the at least one air outlet.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The invention relates to aerosol generating devices. Specifically, the invention relates to mouthpiece portions for aerosol generating devices.BACKGROUND

[0002] There is a demand for aerosol generating devices that can produce novel sensory experiences for the user. There is also a demand for aerosol generating devices that are customisable according to the individual preferences of each user.

[0003] It is an object of the invention to address these demands.SUMMARY OF INVENTION

[0004] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a mouthpiece portion of an aerosol generating device, comprising: an air inlet arranged to receive an aerosol; at least one air outlet and an air channel, the air channel configured to couple the air inlet to the air outlet to enable a user to inhale aerosol from the at least one air outlet; and a mechanism adjustable from a first configuration configured to cause airflow to exit the at least one air outlet in a first pattern during use to a second configuration configured to cause airflow to exit the at least one air outlet in a second pattern during use that is different to the first pattern; wherein, in at least the first configuration, the at least one air outlet and / or the air channel are shaped to split the airflow into at least two substantial flow paths exiting the at least one air outlet.

[0005] In this way, the user can adjust the mechanism between the first and second configurations to adjust the spatial pattern of air exiting the at least one air outlet. The different air patterns in each configuration provide different sensory experiences, allowing the user to customise the vaping experience more specifically to their tastes and preferences. At least one of the configurations (optionally both configurations) splits the airflow into at least two substantial air flow paths exiting the at least one air outlet. This means that at least one configuration of the mechanism provides a more complex output flow pattern that may be perceived as two or more substantial jet streams in the user's mouth, providing a more interesting sensory experience for the user.

[0006] The mechanism could comprise any movable part arranged to enable a user to adjust the spatial pattern of air exiting the at least one air outlet. The mechanism may comprise a moveable part that can be repositioned to alter an airflow path between the air inlet and the user's mouth during use, so that air exits the mouthpiece portion in different directions, and / or from different locations, in different configurations. In some examples, the mechanism can be a sliding component, a screwable or otherwise rotatable component, pivoting component, valve, mechanical iris, or a baffle. It would be understood the mechanism could be provided in any suitable location in the mouthpiece portion that enables it to influence the angles and locations at which air and generated aerosol exit the at least one air outlets.

[0007] It would be understood that the "first pattern" and the "second pattern" of air exiting the at least one air outlet refers to the direction and location from which air exits towards the user's mouth. In other words, the first pattern and the second pattern are different at least in the sense that each pattern is a different spatial distribution of air exiting the mouthpiece portion. The first pattern and the second pattern may also be referred to herein as first or second output air patterns, respectively.

[0008] The at least one air outlet and / or the air channel are configured to split the airflow into two (or more) substantial flow paths. This can be achieved in various ways, such as using an air channel forked into two or more paths (i.e., "furcated") with corresponding air outlets. In another example, an air outlet could have an irregular diameter that is restricted in a central region compared to a diameter at two adjacent peripheral regions, e.g., forming a bottle-gourd shape. This creates two "substantial" flow paths in the sense that the restricted diameter enables some air out of the central region but guides air primarily towards the two side portions of larger diameter, creating two primary or substantial flow paths.

[0009] Preferably, the at least one air outlet and / or the air channel are configured to split the airflow into two or more flow paths. Preferably, the at least one air outlet and / or the air channel are shaped to split the airflow into at least two substantial flow paths exiting the at least one air outlet in different directions.

[0010] The mouthpiece portion may be configured to be removable from a main body or control unit of an aerosol generating device. In this case, the mouthpiece portion may comprise attachment features to facilitate engagement with the control unit. Alternatively, the mouthpiece portion may be integrated within or attached permanently to an aerosol generating device.

[0011] Preferably, the mechanism comprises a blocking feature that can be moved into and out of an airflow path to change a pattern of air exiting the at least one air outlet. In this way, a mechanism is provided that is straightforward to construct in a manner that enables actuation by a user. In some examples, the blocking feature can be moved into an airflow path in the air channel, in one of the at least one air outlets, or "over" (downstream) of the at least one air outlet, to change the angle or location from which air is outcoupled towards the user's mouth. The blocking feature may be movable from a first position, corresponding to the first configuration of the mechanism, to a second position, corresponding to the second configuration of the mechanism. The blocking feature may be movable continuously across a gradual range of positions to gradually change the pattern at which air exits the at least one air outlet.

[0012] Preferably, the mouthpiece portion comprises a plurality of air outlets, and the blocking feature is movable to open one or more of the plurality of air outlets in the first configuration and to close the one or more of the plurality of air outlets in the second configuration. In this way, the mechanism can open or close several air outlets to provide notably different output air patterns to change the user experience. The plurality of air outlets may be arranged to outcouple air towards a periphery of the user's mouth during use, so that actuating the mechanism can be used to switch between modes that provide more or less dispersion of vapour in the user's mouth. In each of the first and second configuration, an air outlet may remain open so that the mouthpiece portion can be used in both configurations.

[0013] Preferably, the blocking feature is provided at the at least one air outlet to change a shape and / or open area of the at least one air outlet. In this way, the user can manipulate the blocking feature as desired. For example, the blocking feature could comprise a slidable component that is movable to cover part of an air outlet in order to create additional discrete air streams exiting the mouthpiece portion.

[0014] Preferably, the mechanism comprises a slidable component that is slidable from the first configuration to the second configuration. The slidable component may be retained within the mouthpiece portion by a suitable retaining mechanism, such as a slot or hole, to prevent loss of the slidable component. In this way, a mechanism that is straightforward to use and implement is provided.

[0015] Preferably, the slidable component comprises a tube, wherein one or more air outlets of the at least one air outlet are positioned on the tube and can be open or closed by sliding the tube between the first configuration and the second configuration. In this way, a mechanism that is straightforward to use and implement is provided. The tube may be biased to one of the first or second configurations for ease of use. A latch can be provided in addition that can be operated to quickly actuate the mechanism back to the first or second configuration, in a similar fashion to the button at the non-writing end of a mechanical pen. The slidable component may be slidable longitudinally, e.g., in a direction parallel to a longitudinal axis of the mouthpiece portion.

[0016] Preferably, the mouthpiece portion further comprises a cavity or a protrusion in the air channel configured to cause turbulent airflow during use. In this way, the mouthpiece portion can outcouple air towards the user that creates a more interesting sensory experience. The cavity or protrusion can be positioned in any suitable location, such as in the air channel or at the at least one air outlet. Preferably, the cavity or protrusion may be provided as part of the mechanism, so that the generation of turbulent airflow can be turned on or off by actuating the mechanism between the first and second configurations. In one example, the mechanism could comprise a component that can be removed or inserted into the air channel, the component having one or more cavities or protrusions that generate turbulent airflow.

[0017] Preferably, the mouthpiece portion comprises a plurality of protrusions arranged at a corresponding plurality spaced positions of gradually different heights and angular positions in the air channel in a helical manner. In this way, the protrusions can generate rotational turbulent airflow that provides a novel and interesting sensory experience for the user. In one example, the protrusions may be hemispherical bumps on a structure, such as on a blocking feature of the mechanism.

[0018] Preferably, the mechanism comprises a tapered structure configured to be removably inserted into the air channel, and the protrusions are arranged on or around the tapered structure, e.g. on an outer surface of the tapered structure, in a helical manner or fashion. In this way, the turbulent rotational airflow can be turned on or off by the user by removing or inserting the tapered structure from the air channel.

[0019] Preferably, the at least one air outlet is arranged to enable airflow to exit the mouthpiece portion substantially perpendicularly to a longitudinal axis of the mouthpiece portion. In this way, air can be outcoupled more towards the periphery of a user's mouth and less towards the back of the throat, which can provide a more interesting sensory experience. Additionally, constructing air outlets in this way can be easier to manufacture compared to providing angled air outlets, although such angled air outlets are still within the scope of the invention. More preferably, the at least one air outlet is provided on a side wall of the mouthpiece portion or the mechanism, for instance as an aperture on a hollow structure or as a straight horizontal bore through a solid body.

[0020] Preferably, the at least one air outlet comprises one or more first air outlets arranged to outcouple air towards a centre of a user's mouth during use and one or more second air outlets arranged to outcouple air towards a periphery of the user's mouth during use. In this way, the user can experience different air streams to provide an interesting sensory experience. Preferably, the mechanism is actuatable to close at least one of the first or second air outlet(s).

[0021] Preferably, the mouthpiece portion comprises a receiving portion at or near the at least one air outlet, and the blocking feature comprises a corresponding attachment feature to enable the blocking portion to be inserted into, or otherwise coupled to, the receiving portion to block the airflow. In this way, a mechanism is provided that is easy to use and implement.

[0022] Preferably, the air channel has a cross-sectional area that is decreased at the air outlet relative to an upstream portion of the air channel to restrict airflow during use.

[0023] Preferably, an air outlet of the at least one air outlets comprises a narrowed portion configured to guide airflow towards two adjacent wider portions of the air outlet.

[0024] According to a further aspect of the invention there is provided a cartridge configured to be coupled to a control unit of an aerosol generating device, comprising: the mouthpiece portion of any of the embodiments of the first aspect of the invention; and a storage portion configured to store an aerosol generating substance.

[0025] In this way, a cartridge is provided for resupplying an aerosol generating device with a consumable substance that has the benefits of the mouthpiece portion discussed above.

[0026] An aerosol generating substance may be provided in the storage portion. The aerosol generating substance may comprise a flavour corresponding to one of the first or the second pattern. For example, the aerosol generating substance may comprise a mint flavour, which may be more enjoyable when the output air pattern is more dispersed. In this example, the first output air pattern may be a more dispersed pattern than the second pattern.

[0027] Preferably, the storage portion comprises a reservoir configured to store an aerosol generating fluid.

[0028] Preferably, the cartridge further comprises an aerosol generation system configured to receive power from the control unit to aerosolise the aerosol generating substance to generate an aerosol that can be inhaled through the mouthpiece portion. In this way, the cartridge can act as a cartomizer.

[0029] According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided an aerosol generating device comprising the mouthpiece portion of any of the embodiments of the first aspect of the invention.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0030] Embodiments of the invention are now described, by way of example, with reference to the drawings, in which: Figure 1A shows a schematic cross-sectional diagram of a mouthpiece portion in a first configuration according to an embodiment of the invention; Figure 1B shows a side view and a plan view of a mechanism of a mouthpiece portion according to an embodiment of the invention; Figure 2A shows a schematic cross-sectional diagram of a mouthpiece portion in a second configuration according to an embodiment of the invention; Figure 2B shows a side view and a plan view of a mechanism of a mouthpiece portion according to an embodiment of the invention; Figure 3A shows a schematic cross-sectional diagram of part of a mouthpiece portion according to an embodiment of the invention; Figure 3B shows a schematic cross-sectional diagram of part of a mouthpiece portion according to an embodiment of the invention; Figure 4 shows a schematic cross-sectional diagram of a part of an alternative mouthpiece portion; Figure 5A shows a schematic cross-sectional diagram of part of a mouthpiece portion in a first configuration according to an embodiment of the invention; Figure 5B shows a schematic cross-sectional diagram of part of a mouthpiece portion in a second configuration according to an embodiment of the invention; Figure 6 shows a schematic cross-sectional diagram of part of a mouthpiece portion according to an embodiment of the invention; Figure 7 shows schematic illustrations of a mouthpiece portion in a front view (left), top view (right), and cross-sectional view (bottom) according to an embodiment of the invention; Figure 8 shows schematic illustrations of a mouthpiece portion in a front view (left), top view (right), and cross-sectional view (bottom) according to an embodiment of the invention; Figure 9 shows a schematic cross-sectional diagram of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the invention; and Figure 10 shows a schematic cross-sectional diagram of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0031] Figure 1A shows a schematic cross-sectional diagram of a mouthpiece portion 100 according to an embodiment of the invention. Figure 1B shows a side view (top) and a plan view (bottom) of a mechanism of the mouthpiece portion 100. Figure 2A shows a schematic cross-sectional diagram of the mouthpiece portion 100 in a different configuration. Figure 2B shows a side view (top) and a plan view (bottom) of the mechanism in the different configuration.

[0032] With reference to Figures 1A to 2B, the mouthpiece portion 100 comprises a mouthpiece 102 provided at a first end connected to a housing 104 at a second end that is opposite the first end. A reservoir 106 is contained within the housing 104 and is fluidically connected to a wick (not shown), about which a heating coil 108 is wrapped. The mouthpiece portion 100 in this example can be attached to a control unit of an aerosol generating device to receive power from the control unit to power the heating coil 108. The heating coil 108 heats aerosol generating fluid absorbed by the wick from the reservoir 106. Exemplary aerosol generating devices are discussed further below with reference to Figures 9 and 10.

[0033] An air inlet 110 is provided at the heating coil 108 to receive generated aerosol from the wick and heating coil 108. The air inlet 110 is fluidically connected by an air channel 112 to air outlets provided on a mechanism 114 for enabling a user to adjust an output airflow pattern. More specifically, the mechanism 114 comprises a tube 116 slidably received within the mouthpiece 102 by a suitable receiving structure, such as a slot. The tube 116 has a central air outlet 118 arranged on an otherwise closed top face of the tube 116, and a plurality of air outlets 120 arranged on a side wall of the tube 116. Air and generated aerosol follow an airflow path A through the air channel 112, as shown in Figures 1A and 2A, when a user draws air through the mouthpiece 102.

[0034] The tube 116 can be slid longitudinally by a user between a first configuration shown in Figures 1A and 1B to a second configuration shown in Figures 2A and 2B to open or close the air outlets 120. In both configurations, the central air outlet 118 remains open. In the first configuration, the air outlets 120 outcouple air in a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the mouthpiece portion 100, as shown in Figure 1A. During use, this directs airflow towards the periphery of the user's mouth. At the same time, the central air outlet 118 directs air towards the centre of the user's mouth. The output air pattern in the first configuration is illustrated in Figure 1A by the arrows B. In the second configuration, the air outlets 120 are closed and air flows mainly towards the centre of the user's mouth in a different pattern C. This allows the user to adjust the spatial pattern of air flowing out the mouthpiece 102 to provide a customisable experience.

[0035] The mouthpiece 102 can have any suitable shape and may be ergonomically shaped to fit easily within a user's mouth. The mouthpiece 102 can comprise any suitable material, such as plastic.

[0036] The housing 104 is provided in this embodiment to provide an outer wall to form the reservoir 106 and to contain the wick and heating coil 108. This allows the mouthpiece portion 100 to form a cartomiser or cartridge that can be coupled to a control unit of an aerosol generating device and replaced when the reservoir 106 or heating coil 108 become depleted. In other embodiments, the mouthpiece portion 100 may be integrated permanently into an aerosol generating device. In this case, the housing 104 may not be necessary, for instance if the reservoir 106 is provided elsewhere in the aerosol generating device. Similarly, the wick and heating coil 108 need not be provided in the mouthpiece portion 100 if these components are provided in the aerosol generating device. Therefore, in other examples, the mouthpiece portion 100 can comprise only the air inlet 110, air channel 112, a mechanism for enabling the user to change the output air pattern, and at least one air outlet integrated into a suitable structure that enables the user to draw air through the air outlet.

[0037] The reservoir 106 has an annular shape with an inner wall that forms the air channel 112 in this example. The reservoir 106 can have any other suitable shape or construction in other examples. The reservoir 106 may be refillable through a suitable sealable opening, or may be non-refillable. In other examples, the reservoir 106 could be replaced with any other suitable storage portion configured to store a suitable type of aerosol generating substance.

[0038] The heating coil 108 is an electrically conductive wire configured to generate heat in response to receipt of an electric current, as known in the art. The heating coil 108 may be any other kind or heater in other examples, such as a film heater, laser heater, or induction heater in other examples. The heating coil 108 is connected in this example to electrical contacts (not shown) that can connect to corresponding contacts of a control unit housing a power source, so that the control unit can power the heating coil 108 during use. Any other suitable means known in the art for providing power to the heating coil 108 (or any other type of heater) in other examples.

[0039] The heating coil 108 and wick are provided immediately adjacent the air inlet 110 in this example. In other examples, the heating coil 108 and wick may be provided in the air channel 112 itself, in which case the air inlet 110 can be considered as the part of the air channel 112 that is immediately "above" (i.e., "downstream" towards the mechanism 114) the heating coil 108.

[0040] The heating coil 108 and the wick form an aerosol generation system. However, any other type of aerosol generation system can be provided in the mouthpiece portion 100 in other examples. As described previously, the mouthpiece portion 100 may not comprise any aerosol generation system, as this can be provided as part of the remainder of an aerosol generating device.

[0041] In this example, the air channel 112 is a straight circular tube the extends longitudinally between the mechanism 114 and the heating coil 108. However, the air channel 112 can have other constructions and cross-sections in other examples that may be more complex, as known in the art.

[0042] The mechanism 114 is formed by the tube 116 received in a corresponding receiving portion of the mouthpiece 102 in this example. However, the mechanism 114 can have any other suitable construction that enables a user to adjust the output pattern of airflow from the mouthpiece portion 100 in other examples. Further specific examples of alternative constructions are discussed below with reference to subsequent Figures.

[0043] Returning to this example, the tube 116 can be pulled up or down manually by a user in the manner of a periscope to transform the mechanism between the first configuration of Figure 1A and the second configuration in Figure 2A. The tube 116 may comprise a biasing member to bias the tube 116 to the open position of Figure 1A or the closed position of Figure 2A, for ease of use, and a latch for holding the tube 116 in the open or closed position. The tube 116 may comprise a flange or stopper at a bottom end, opposite the central air outlet 118, that prevents removal of the tube 116 from the corresponding receiving portion of the mouthpiece 102 to avoid loss of the tube 116. Any other such retaining mechanism can be provided in other embodiments.

[0044] The tube 116 has a cylindrical structure wherein the plurality of air outlets 120 are provided at spaced positions on the curved side wall of the tube 116. Figures 3A and 3B show cross-sectional schematic diagrams of the tube 116, illustrating some possible constructions of the air outlets 120. As shown in Figure 3A, the tube 116 can have straight air outlets 120a formed by a bore that is substantially perpendicular to the side wall of the tube. Alternatively, as shown in Figure 3B, the tube 116 can have angled air outlets 120b provided by a bore arranged at a substantially non-zero angle to the normal of the sidewall of the tube 116, such as 10, 20, or 30 degrees. The particular angle of the air outlets in each case may influence the corresponding output air pattern B, where lower angles (relative to the normal of the sidewall of the tube 116) provide greater dispersion of aerosol in the user's mouth. In other examples, the air outlets 120 can have various other constructions.

[0045] The straight air outlets 120a can be easier to manufacture compared to the angled air outlets 120b. For example, two straight air outlets 120a can be formed in one step using a drill piece that bores through side wall of the tube 116 twice on opposing regions of the side wall in a single drilling step.

[0046] In this example, the air outlets 120 comprise about 8 openings arranged at regularly spaced positions around the side wall of the tube 116. In other embodiments, the air outlets 120 could comprise a greater or lesser number arranged regularly or irregularly on the tube 116.

[0047] During use, a user can actuate the heating coil 108 by a suitable input mechanism on an aerosol generating device (or control unit) coupled to the mouthpiece portion 100. The heating coil 108 heats aerosol generating fluid absorbed by the wick from the reservoir 106. An upstream air inlet on the aerosol generating device can supply the wick area with air, so that the user can draw air through the air outlets 118, 120 to carry generated aerosol from the heating coil 108 through the air channel 112 and out of the air outlets 118, 120. Air and generated aerosol exits the mechanism 114 in an output air pattern B or C depending on whether the mechanism is in the first or second configuration, respectively.

[0048] In the first configuration, the plurality of air outlets 120 split the airflow A into several airflow paths, where each air outlet of the plurality of air outlets 120 provides an additional airflow path. Splitting the airflow paths in this way provides a more complex sensory experience in the user's mouth that may be preferable in some scenarios.

[0049] In one example, the user may taste the aerosol and decide based on the flavour that a more focussed delivery of aerosol would be more enjoyable. The user may then push in the tube 116 so that the tube 116 is pushed further into the corresponding receiving portion of the mouthpiece 102 until the mechanism 114 is in the second configuration shown in Figure 2B. Alternatively, the user could taste the flavour of the aerosol and decide that the flavour may be better suited to the more dispersed output air pattern B. The user can then pull the tube 116 upwards, away from the mouthpiece 102, until the mechanism 114 is in the first configuration shown in Figure 1A. In this way, the user can customise their experience according to their preferences and to the specific fluid in the reservoir 106.

[0050] As discussed previously, various other mechanisms can be provided that operate in different ways and / or provide alternative output air patterns.

[0051] Figure 4 shows a schematic cross-sectional diagram of a part of an alternative mouthpiece portion 200 that is the same as the mouthpiece portion 100 (or the variations thereof described above), except that an alternative mechanism 214 is provided. The mechanism 214 can manipulated by a user to change the pattern of air exiting a sole circular air outlet 218 of the mouthpiece portion 200. For the purposes of brevity and illustration, the mouthpiece 102, housing 104, and reservoir 106 of the mouthpiece portion 200 are not shown in Figure 4.

[0052] The mechanism 214 comprises a blocking feature 215 and a clip 216 attached to the blocking feature 215. The clip 216 can be pushed through the air inlet 218 into a corresponding slot in the side wall of the air channel 112 so that the blocking feature 215 is removably secured in the air channel 112. The blocking feature 215 comprises a solid conical structure 215a having a plurality of hemispherical protrusions 215b provided at spaced positions around the conical structure 215 in a helical arrangement. The conical structure 215a is arranged with its base approximately level with the air outlet 218 and its tip extending into the air channel 112 to guide air and aerosol around the base of the conical structure 215a.

[0053] During use, the blocking feature 215 performs two functions. The conical structure 215a reduces and splits the airflow A into a plurality of different airflow paths A1, A2 that can be taken around the conical structure 215. Unlike the air outlets 120 of the mechanism 114, which splits the airflow A into a plurality of discrete additional paths, the conical structure 215a splits or divides the airflow A into a large plurality of different paths. The conical structure 215 obstructs the airflow A reducing the open area of the air outlet 218 and forcing air into additional airflow paths A1, A2 are diverted towards the periphery of the air channel 112. A top part of the conical structure 215a covers a central region of the air outlet 218 so that the air outlet has an annular shape in the configuration shown in Figure 4. This creates an output airflow pattern D that is more dispersed and directed mainly towards the periphery of the user's mouth during use. A region X above a central part of the air outlet 218 experiences minimal or no output airflow, as shown in Figure 4.

[0054] The second function of the blocking feature 215 is performed by the protrusions 215b. The protrusions 215b provide obstructions that generate turbulent airflow. This changes the sensation of the output airflow D experienced by the user. The helical arrangement of the protrusions 215b is formed by successive protrusions 215b being at gradually increasing longitudinal positions on the conical structure 215a and also gradually changing angular positions around the curved exterior of the conical structure 215a. This can cause the airflow A1, A2 to rotate around the conical structure 215a in a spiral manner, while at the same time being split into different paths by the conical structure 215a. This creates an alternative sensory experience for the user that may be preferable to some users or with certain flavours.

[0055] Due to the rotation of the airflow A1, A2, air following different paths around the conical structure 215a is outcoupled from the air outlet 218 in different directions. For example, air starting from the left of the conical structure 215 and flowing towards the air outlet 218 may revolve around the conical structure 215 in a spiral manner, due to the protrusions 215b, and exit the air outlet 218 in a direction back towards the left side of Figure 4. Similarly, air flowing from the right of the conical structure 215 towards the air outlet 218 could revolve around the conical structure 215 in a spiral manner, due to the protrusions 215b, and exit the air outlet 218 in a direction back towards the right side of Figure 4, providing a second flow path that exits the air outlet 218 in a different direction.

[0056] The user can adjust the mechanism 214 by pulling the blocking feature 215 out of the air channel 112 to unfasten the clip 216. Once the blocking feature 215 is removed, the mouthpiece portion 200 is in a second configuration that provides a relatively straight and uniform airflow that exits the air outlet 218 in a direction generally aligned with the longitudinal axis of the mouthpiece portion 200.

[0057] The blocking feature 215 comprises a conical structure 215a and protrusions 215b in this example. In other embodiments, the blocking feature 215 can have any other suitable shape that can produce a desired non-uniform output air pattern that provides an interesting sensory experience for the user. The conical structure 215a may generally be a tapered structure in other embodiments. The protrusions 215b, which are optional, may be replaced with any other cavity or shape on the conical structure 215a that can generate turbulent airflow and, also optionally, generate rotational airflow. For example, the conical structure 215a may comprise one or more helical baffles instead.

[0058] In this example, the mechanism 214 is manually adjustable by removing or replacing the blocking feature 215 in the air channel 112 using the clip 216. However, in other embodiments, the mechanism 214 could comprise threaded elements that enable the blocking feature 215 to be screwed into place. For instance, a threaded receiving structure could be provided in the middle of the air outlet 218 that can receive a corresponding threaded portion of the blocking feature 215. Any other type of mechanism that enables a user to manipulate the output airflow patterns can be provided in other examples.

[0059] Figures 5A and 5B show schematic cross-sectional diagrams of an alternative mouthpiece portion 300 according to a further embodiment of the invention. The mouthpiece portion 300 is the same as the mouthpiece portion 100 (or the variations thereof described above), except that an alternative mechanism 314 is provided. The mechanism 314 can manipulated by a user to change the pattern of air exiting a sole circular air outlet 318 positioned at the mouthpiece end of the air channel 112 of the mouthpiece portion 300. For the purposes of brevity and illustration, the mouthpiece 102, housing 104, and reservoir 106 of the mouthpiece portion 300 are not shown in Figures 5A and 5B.

[0060] The mechanism 314 comprises a blocking feature 315 supported by a sliding arm 316 that extends from a side of the air channel 112 and upwards towards the air outlet 318 in an L-shape. The blocking feature 315 comprises a flat circular panel that obstructs airflow exiting the air outlet 318 to force the airflow into several different airflow paths around the panel. The sliding arm 316 enables the blocking feature 315 to be moved closer or further from the air outlet 318 at the end of the air channel 112 in order to gradually adjust the spatial pattern of air exiting the mouthpiece portion 300.

[0061] Figure 5A shows the mechanism 314 in a first configuration, in which the blocking feature 315 is depressed and hence narrowly spaced from the air outlet 318 at the top of the air channel 112 to form a narrow gap that allows air and generated aerosol to escape. The lower face of the blocking feature 315 obstructs air and pushes the air outwards, in a direction that is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the mouthpiece portion 300. The blocking feature 315 splits the airflow A into a large plurality of possible paths by forcing air towards a peripheral part of the blocking feature 315. During use, air and generated aerosol exit the air outlet 318 in an output airflow pattern E that is strongly focussed towards the periphery of the user's mouth to provide an alternative sensory experience.

[0062] In Figure 5B, the mechanism 314 is shown in a second configuration, in which blocking feature 315 and sliding arm 316 have been pulled upwards to create a larger gap from the air outlet 318. This creates a different output air pattern F that may be less focussed towards the periphery of the user's mouth.

[0063] The blocking feature 315 comprises a flat solid panel that is spaced from the top of the air channel 112 in this example. The blocking feature 315 and mechanism 314 could have other shapes configured to produce other output air patterns in other examples. For instance, as shown in Figure 6, the blocking feature can comprise additional air outlets 320 on the panel that enables some air to escape more centrally, to provide a less dispersed output air pattern G.

[0064] In another example, instead of the supporting arm 316 being slidable up and down the air channel 112, the blocking feature 315 may be removable or insertable into the arm. For instance, the blocking feature 315 can have a pin on its lower face that can be inserted into a corresponding bore in the arm 316, which could be stationary in this alternative example, to hold the blocking feature 315 in place by, for example, magnetic or frictional engagement. Alternatively, the arm and the pin can be threaded to enable attachment by screwing. In these cases, the user can remove and replace the blocking feature 315 from the sliding arm 316 in order to change the output airflow pattern.

[0065] Figure 7 shows a front view (left) and a top view (right) of a mouthpiece portion 400, as well as a schematic cross-sectional diagram of part of a mouthpiece end of the mouthpiece portion 400 (bottom). The mouthpiece portion 400 is a variation of the mouthpiece portion 200 having an alternative structure without any protrusions 215b, wick, reservoir 106, or heating coil 108. In this embodiment, instead of the clip 216, struts 417 are provided to support a threaded ring 418 suspended in the centre of the air channel 112, having an internal threaded surface that can receive corresponding threads 215c positioned at the base of the blocking feature 215 to enable the conical structure 215a to be screwed into place within the air channel 112. The struts 417, threaded ring 418 and threads 215c are shown in the bottom illustration of Figure 7, in a configuration where the blocking feature 215 is partially screwed into the threaded ring 418. In the left illustration of Figure 7, dashed lines indicate the position of the air channel 112 contained within the mouthpiece 102. In use, the user can screw the conical structure 215a in or out of the threaded ring 418 held in place by the struts 417 to change the output airflow as desired.

[0066] The mouthpiece portion 400 can be used with an aerosol generating device having its own aerosol generation system. The mouthpiece portion 400 could be removable from the aerosol generating device to be replaced with other mouthpiece portions that provide different sensory experiences for the user. Alternatively, the mouthpiece portion 400 could be permanently fixed or integrated within a single aerosol generating device.

[0067] Otherwise, the mouthpiece portion 400 is the same as the mouthpiece portion 200 and can be varied in similar ways as described above for the mouthpiece portions 100 and 200.

[0068] Figure 8 shows a front view indicating the internal structure of a mouthpiece portion 500 (left) and a front view showing the exterior structure (right), as well as a schematic cross-sectional diagram of part of a mouthpiece end of the mouthpiece portion 500. The mouthpiece portion 500 is a variation of the mouthpiece portion 400 having an alternative air channel 512 that widens towards the top of the mouthpiece 502 to couple the air inlet 110 to a plurality of air outlets 518, in addition to the more central air outlet 218 described previously with respect to Figure 4. The struts 417, threaded ring 418 and threads 215c are shown in the bottom illustration, in a configuration where the blocking feature 215 is partially screwed into the threaded ring 418. In the left drawing of Figure 8, dashed lines indicate the position of the air channel 512 contained within the mouthpiece 502. The plurality of air outlets 518 are provided at spaced positions around an exterior side wall of the mouthpiece portion 500 to outcouple air towards a periphery of the user's mouth during use. As described above, the user can screw the conical structure 215 in or out of the threaded ring 418 held in place by the struts 417 to change the pattern of output airflow as desired.

[0069] Otherwise, the mouthpiece portion 500 is the same as the mouthpiece portion 400 and can be varied in similar ways as described above for the mouthpiece portions 100 and 200.

[0070] In further examples not illustrated in the Figures, the mechanism could be implemented in various other ways alternatively or in addition to the mechanisms described above. For example, a mechanical iris could be provided at an air outlet of the mouthpiece portion to change the diameter of the air outlet to adjust the output air pattern as desired. Similarly, a plurality of air outlets could be provided, each with a sliding cover so that individual air outlets can be opened or closed according to user preferences.

[0071] In the forgoing examples, the mechanism is generally provided in or near the air outlets of the mouthpiece portions. However, in other examples, the mechanism could also be provided in the air channel. For example, a baffle could be provided in the air channel that can be pivoted or moved by a user, in order to change the output direction of air exiting one or more air outlets as desired.

[0072] Figure 9 shows a schematic diagram cross-sectional of an aerosol generating device 1 according to an embodiment of the invention, comprising a control unit 10 and a mouthpiece portion 50.

[0073] The control unit 10 comprises a housing 12, an energy module 14, a controller 16, and an aerosol generation system 18, the latter of which are contained within the housing 12. The controller 16 controls operation of the aerosol generation system 18 and the energy module 14 provides electrical power to the controller 16 and the aerosol generation system 18. A button 20 or any other suitable input mechanism, such as an airflow sensor, is provided in connection with the controller 16 for enabling a user to initiate the aerosol generation system 18.

[0074] The mouthpiece portion 50 includes a mechanism for enabling an output pattern of air to be adjusted by a user. At least one configuration of the mechanism splits the airflow into two or more substantial paths to provide an interesting sensory user experience. The mouthpiece can be constructed according to any of the mouthpiece portions 100, 200, 300, 400, or 500 (or the variations thereof) described previously, however in this arrangement the aerosol generation system 18 is provided in the aerosol generating device 10 and not in the mouthpiece portion 50. In this example a reservoir 52 is provided on the mouthpiece portion 50, such that the mouthpiece portion 50 acts a cartridge for the control unit 10.

[0075] The control unit 10 comprise a chamber (not shown), or any other suitable receiving means, for removably receiving the mouthpiece portion 50. The mouthpiece portion can comprise a suitable attachment feature to facilitate attachment of the mouthpiece portion 50 and the control unit 10. The control unit 10 and mouthpiece portion 50 are configured so that the air inlet 110 is positioned to receive an aerosol from the aerosol generation system 18 when attached to the control unit 10.

[0076] An air inlet 22 is provided on the housing 12 for supplying the aerosol generating system 18 with air. This allows the user to pull air through the air inlet 22 by drawing from the air outlet or outlets of the mouthpiece portion 50 to carry generated aerosol out of the mouthpiece portion.

[0077] The aerosol generation system 18 may comprise a heater, such as the heating coil 108 described previously, or any other suitable means to generate an aerosol from a consumable substance. Similarly, the reservoir 52 could be a storage portion configured to hold other types of aerosol generating substances.

[0078] It would be understood that the control unit 10 can have any other suitable construction in other embodiments, as known in the art.

[0079] The reservoir 52 (or other storage portion) can store a fluid (or other substance) having a particular flavour, and the first or second configuration of the mouthpiece portion's mechanism can be configured to provide an output airflow pattern that is associated with the flavour. For example, a mint flavour, which may be associated with a fresh whole-mouth sensation, may be stored in the reservoir 52 and the mechanism of the mouthpiece portion may be actuatable to provide a dispersed output air pattern. In another example, the reservoir 52 can have a flavour found to be more enjoyable when directed towards the back of the throat, and so can be provided in a mouthpiece portion 50 having a mechanism that enables a more narrow output air pattern that directs aerosol to the back of the throat more effectively.

[0080] Figure 10 shows a schematic cross-sectional diagram of a variant of the aerosol generating device 1 according to an embodiment of the invention. In this alternative arrangement, the aerosol generation system 18 is provided in the mouthpiece portion 50. Electrical contacts 24 are provided on the mouthpiece portion 50 for connecting to corresponding contacts 26 on the control unit 10. These allow a complete electrical circuit to be formed between the aerosol generation system 18 and the power module 14. In some instances, electrical contacts may not be required to transfer power to the mouthpiece portion 50, for instance where the aerosol generation system 18 comprises an inductive heating element. In the arrangement of Figure 10, the air inlet 22 may be provided on an outer surface of the mouthpiece portion 52 to supply the aerosol generation system 18 with air. Otherwise, the aerosol generating device 1 of Figure 10 is as described above in connection with Figure 9.

Claims

1. A mouthpiece portion of an aerosol generating device, comprising: an air inlet arranged to receive an aerosol; at least one air outlet and an air channel, the air channel configured to couple the air inlet to the air outlet to enable a user to inhale aerosol from the at least one air outlet; and a mechanism adjustable from a first configuration configured to cause airflow to exit the at least one air outlet in a first pattern during use to a second configuration configured to cause airflow to exit the at least one air outlet in a second pattern during use that is different to the first pattern; wherein, in at least the first configuration, the at least one air outlet and / or the air channel are shaped to split the airflow into at least two substantial flow paths exiting the at least one air outlet.

2. The mouthpiece portion of claim 1, wherein the mechanism comprises a blocking feature that can be moved into and out of an airflow path to change a pattern of air exiting the at least one air outlet.

3. The mouthpiece portion of claim 2, wherein the mouthpiece portion comprises a plurality of air outlets, and wherein the blocking feature is movable to open one or more of the plurality of air outlets in the first configuration and to close the one or more of the plurality of air outlets in the second configuration.

4. The mouthpiece portion of claim 2 or claim 3, wherein the blocking feature is provided at the at least one air outlet to change a shape and / or open area of the at least one air outlet.

5. The mouthpiece portion of any of the preceding claims, wherein the mechanism comprises a slidable component that is slidable from the first configuration to the second configuration.

6. The mouthpiece portion of claim 5, wherein the slidable component comprises a tube, wherein one or more air outlets of the at least one air outlet are positioned on the tube and can be open or closed by sliding the tube between the first configuration and the second configuration.

7. The mouthpiece portion of any of the preceding claims, further comprising a cavity or a protrusion in the air channel configured to cause turbulent airflow during use.

8. The mouthpiece portion of claim 7, wherein the mouthpiece portion comprises a plurality of protrusions arranged at a corresponding plurality spaced positions of gradually different heights and angular positions in the air channel in a helical manner.

9. The mouthpiece portion of claim 8, wherein the mechanism comprises a tapered structure configured to be removably inserted into the air channel, and wherein the protrusions are arranged on the tapered structure in a helical manner.

10. The mouthpiece portion of any of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one air outlet is arranged to enable airflow to exit the mouthpiece portion substantially perpendicularly to a longitudinal axis of the mouthpiece portion.

11. The mouthpiece portion of any of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one air outlet comprises a first air outlet arranged to outcouple air towards a centre of a user's mouth during use and one or more second air outlets arranged to outcouple air towards a periphery of the user's mouth during use.

12. The mouthpiece portion of any of the preceding claims, further comprising a receiving portion at or near the at least one air outlet, wherein the blocking feature comprises a corresponding attachment feature to enable the blocking portion to be coupled to the receiving portion to block the airflow.

13. A cartridge configured to be coupled to a control unit of an aerosol generating device, comprising: the mouthpiece portion of any of the preceding claims; and a storage portion configured to store an aerosol generating substance.

14. The cartridge of claim 13, further comprising an aerosol generation system configured to receive power from the control unit to aerosolise the aerosol generating substance to generate an aerosol that can be inhaled through the mouthpiece portion.

15. An aerosol generating device comprising the mouthpiece portion of any of claims 1 to 12.

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