Method and system for forming an aerosol-generating component of an aerosol-generating system - Patents.com

Abstract

A method for forming an aerosol-generating component of an aerosol-generating system and a system for forming an aerosol-generating component of an aerosol-generating system, the method comprising: immersing at least a portion of a heating element (1) in a deposition liquid (6); immersing at least a portion of an auxiliary electrode (4) in the deposition liquid (6); and applying a voltage between the heating element (1) and the auxiliary electrode (4) to deposit an aerosol-forming substrate on the heating element (1) by electrophoretic deposition.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a system for forming an aerosol-generating component of an aerosol-generating system, and a method for forming an aerosol-generating component of an aerosol-generating system. [Background technology]

[0002] Many different types of personal vaporizers and heated non-combustion systems are available that generate inhalable aerosols from an aerosol-forming substrate. Some of these systems heat a liquid composition, others heat a solid tobacco mixture, and some heat both the liquid composition and the solid substrate. Some available systems heat the aerosol-forming substrate by conduction of heat from a heating element to the aerosol-forming substrate. Most commonly, this is accomplished by passing an electric current through an electrically resistive heating element, resulting in Joule heating of the heating element. Induction heating systems have also been proposed, where Joule heating occurs as a result of eddy currents induced in a susceptor heating element.

[0003] Some aerosol generating systems include disposable aerosol generating components. For example, some aerosol generating systems include a cartridge that includes both an aerosol-forming substrate and a heating element. In these aerosol generating systems, the heating element is deployed after the aerosol-generating substrate in the cartridge is consumed.

[0004] It would be desirable to provide an aerosol generating system having a heating element that can be reused, which would reduce the cost of operating the aerosol generating system and reduce waste, and it would be desirable to provide an aerosol generating system having a precise volume of aerosol-forming substrate in close proximity to the heating element to improve control of the volume and characteristics of the aerosol generated by the aerosol generating system. Summary of the Invention

[0005] According to the present disclosure, there is provided a method of forming an aerosol-generating component of an aerosol-generating system, the method may include depositing an aerosol-forming substrate onto a heating element by electrophoretic deposition.

[0006] The method may include immersing at least a portion of the auxiliary electrode in the deposition liquid.The method may further include immersing at least a portion of the heating element in the deposition liquid.The method may further include applying a voltage between the heating element and the auxiliary electrode to deposit the aerosol-forming substrate on the heating element by electrophoretic deposition.

[0007] According to the present disclosure, there is provided a system for forming an aerosol-generating component of an aerosol-generating system. The system may include a heating element. The system may include a deposition liquid. The system may include an auxiliary electrode. The system may be configured to apply a voltage between the heating element and the auxiliary electrode by electrophoretic deposition to deposit an aerosol-forming substrate on the heating element when at least a portion of the heating element and at least a portion of the auxiliary electrode are immersed in the deposition liquid.

[0008] Advantageously, electrochemical deposition of an aerosol-forming substrate onto a heating element is relatively low cost and simple to perform, and as a result does not need to be performed in a factory setting, such that a user of an aerosol generating system may be able to deposit an aerosol-forming substrate by electrophoretic deposition onto a heating element of an aerosol generating system at home.

[0009] Advantageously, depositing the aerosol-forming substrate onto a heating element of an aerosol-generating system by electrophoretic deposition may allow the heating element to be reused once an existing aerosol-forming substrate in the aerosol-generating system is depleted.

[0010] Advantageously, depositing the aerosol-forming substrate onto a heating element of an aerosol-generating system by electrophoretic deposition may enable the aerosol-forming substrate to be held in close proximity to the heating element, facilitating the transfer of heat from the heating element to the aerosol-forming substrate.

[0011] Advantageously, depositing the aerosol-forming substrate onto the heating element of the aerosol-generating system by electrophoretic deposition may allow precise control of the thickness and volume of the aerosol-forming substrate provided on the heating element of the aerosol-generating system, which in turn may allow precise control of the velocity, volume, and characteristics of the aerosol generated by the aerosol-generating system.

[0012] Advantageously, depositing the aerosol-forming substrate onto the heating element by electrophoretic deposition may reduce the risk of the aerosol-forming substrate leaking from the aerosol generation system, such as a liquid aerosol-forming substrate leaking from the aerosol generation system before being heated to generate an aerosol.

[0013] As used herein, the term "aerosol-forming substrate" refers to a substrate capable of releasing volatile compounds capable of forming an aerosol. Such volatile compounds may be released by heating the aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-forming substrate is typically part of an aerosol-generating article. The aerosol generated by the aerosol-forming substrate is preferably directly inhalable by a user by sucking or puffing on the aerosol-generating system.

[0014] As used herein, the term aerosol-generating component refers to a component of an aerosol-generating system that includes a heating element and an aerosol-forming substrate. For example, the aerosol-generating component may be a cartridge that includes a heating element and an aerosol-forming substrate deposited on the heating element, which is configured to be removably coupled to an aerosol-generating device. For example, the aerosol-generating component may be the heating element of an aerosol-generating device and the aerosol-forming substrate deposited on the heating element, where the heating element is an integral component of the aerosol-generating device.

[0015] As used herein, the term "aerosol-generating device" refers to a device that interacts with an aerosol-forming substrate to generate an aerosol. In some embodiments, the heating element is an integral part of the aerosol-generating device. In preferred embodiments, the heating element may be removably connectable to the aerosol-generating device. The aerosol-generating device preferably comprises a power source arranged to provide power to the heating element to heat the aerosol-forming substrate deposited on the heating element to generate an aerosol.

[0016] As used herein, the term "aerosol-generating system" refers to the combination of an aerosol-generating device, a heating element, and an aerosol-forming substrate. In an aerosol-generating system, the aerosol-forming substrate, the heating element, and the aerosol-generating device work together to generate an aerosol.

[0017] The inventors have recognised that it is possible to form the aerosol-generating component of an aerosol-generating system by depositing an aerosol-forming substrate onto a heating element by electrophoretic deposition.

[0018] As used herein, the term "depositing" an aerosol-forming substrate on a heating element means applying the aerosol-forming substrate as a coating on the outer surface of the heating element, rather than the aerosol-forming substrate being a separate, individual part that is attached to or placed in contact with the heating element.

[0019] As used herein, the term "electrophoretic deposition" refers to a process in which particles, typically colloidal particles, in a deposition liquid migrate under the influence of an electric field (electrophoresis) between a working electrode and an auxiliary electrode and are deposited on the surface of the working electrode. In the present disclosure, a heating element acts as a working electrode when it is at least partially immersed in the deposition liquid.

[0020] A method of forming an aerosol-generating component includes immersing at least a portion of an auxiliary electrode in a deposition liquid, immersing at least a portion of a heating element in the deposition liquid, and applying a voltage between the heating element and the auxiliary electrode. The voltage between the heating element and the auxiliary electrode establishes an electric field in the deposition liquid. Charged particles in the deposition liquid migrate under the influence of the electric field to the heating element where they are deposited, forming a coating of the aerosol-forming substrate on a surface of the heating element.

[0021] Electrophoretic deposition of the aerosol-forming substrate onto the heating element differs from mechanical application such as brushing or dipping the heating element in the aerosol-forming substrate. Advantageously, electrophoretic deposition of the aerosol-forming substrate onto the heating element allows for improved control over the thickness, volume, and distribution of the aerosol-forming substrate deposited on the heating element compared to mechanical application methods.

[0022] The heating element may take any suitable form. The heating element may be substantially planar. The heating element may be a wire. The heating element may be a coil.

[0023] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the heating element is disposed on a substrate that includes an electrically insulating material. Advantageously, this may improve the structural rigidity of the heating element. As used herein, the term "electrically insulating" means a material that is at least 1x10 at 20 degrees Celsius. 4 Refers to a material that has an electrical resistivity in ohmmeters (Ω.m).

[0024] In some embodiments, the heating element comprises multiple heating elements. Advantageously, providing multiple heating elements may allow the aerosol generation system to provide improved control of aerosol generation. For example, each of the multiple heating elements may be selectively heated such that aerosol may be generated at different rates depending on the number of heating elements that are heated.

[0025] Where the heating element comprises a plurality of heating elements, the step of immersing at least a portion of the heating elements in the deposition liquid comprises immersing at least a portion of each of the plurality of heating elements in the deposition liquid.

[0026] The plurality of heating elements may be arranged to form an array, with each heating element spaced apart from the other heating elements. At least a portion of each of the plurality of heating elements may be disposed on a substrate comprising an electrically insulating material.

[0027] Each of the plurality of heating elements may be substantially planar. Each of the plurality of heating elements may be a wire. Each of the plurality of heating elements may be a coil.

[0028] The heating element or heating elements may be made of any suitable material to allow the aerosol-forming substrate to be deposited on the heating element by electrophoretic deposition. Preferably, the heating element comprises an inert material. Preferably, the heating element comprises platinum. The heating element may comprise gold.

[0029] The auxiliary electrode may take any suitable form to enable the aerosol-forming substrate to be deposited on the heating element by electrophoretic deposition. The auxiliary electrode may be made of any suitable material to enable the aerosol-forming substrate to be deposited on the heating element by electrophoretic deposition. Preferably, the auxiliary electrode comprises silver. It is particularly preferred that the auxiliary electrode comprises silver chloride.

[0030] In some preferred embodiments, the system comprises a reference electrode in addition to the auxiliary electrode. In these preferred embodiments, the system may be configured to apply a voltage between the heating element, the auxiliary electrode, and the reference electrode when at least a portion of the heating element, at least a portion of the auxiliary electrode, and at least a portion of the reference electrode are immersed in the deposition liquid, and to deposit the aerosol-forming substrate on the heating element by electrophoretic deposition. In embodiments including a counter electrode, a three-electrode system is formed by the heating element acting as the working electrode, the auxiliary electrode, and the reference electrode. A stable and known voltage may be applied to the auxiliary electrode. The voltage applied to the auxiliary electrode may be measured against the voltage applied to the reference electrode. The electrical deposition rate of the aerosol-forming substrate occurring at the heating element may be determined from the measured voltage between the auxiliary electrode and the reference electrode. The voltage applied to the auxiliary electrode may then be adjusted in response to the determined electrical deposition rate of the aerosol-forming substrate occurring at the heating element.

[0031] In some preferred embodiments, the method of forming an aerosol-generating component includes immersing at least a portion of the reference electrode in the deposition liquid, hi these embodiments, the step of applying a voltage includes applying a voltage between the heating element, the auxiliary electrode, and the reference electrode to deposit the aerosol-forming substrate on the heating element by electrophoretic deposition.

[0032] The reference electrode may take any suitable form to enable the aerosol-forming substrate to be deposited on the heating element by electrophoretic deposition. The reference electrode may be made of any suitable material to enable the aerosol-forming substrate to be deposited on the heating element by electrophoretic deposition. Preferably, the reference electrode comprises an inert material. It is particularly preferred that the reference electrode comprises platinum.

[0033] As used herein, the term "deposition liquid" refers to any liquid that contains the desired components of the aerosol-forming substrate and enables the aerosol-forming substrate to be deposited onto a heating element by electrophoretic deposition.

[0034] The deposition liquid may be a solution. The deposition liquid may comprise water. If the deposition liquid comprises a solution, the solvent of the solution may be water. The deposition liquid is preferably a colloid. The colloid may comprise colloidal particles suspended in a liquid.

[0035] The deposition liquid preferably comprises sugars. The sugars may comprise monosaccharides. The sugars preferably comprise polysaccharides.

[0036] Advantageously, the polysaccharide in the deposition liquid may act as a sequester for other components of the deposition liquid. The polysaccharide may encapsulate and capture other components in the deposition liquid that are desired to form an aerosol-forming substrate. During electrodeposition, the polysaccharide and the captured components of the aerosol-forming substrate may be deposited together on the heating element by electrophoretic deposition. Because the deposited material contains the desired components to form the aerosol-forming substrate, the deposited material forms a coating of the aerosol-forming substrate on the heating element.

[0037] The polysaccharide may include a cellulose derivative.

[0038] Preferably, the polysaccharide comprises sodium alginate (AlgNa). The deposition liquid may comprise sodium alginate in solution. The alginate in the sodium alginate solution may migrate to the heating element upon application of a voltage between the heating element and the auxiliary electrode. Advantageously, the alginate may gel at the heating element to form a gel coating on the heating element. Even more advantageously, the alginate gel may act as a scavenger for desired components of the aerosol-forming substrate that are also present in the deposition liquid. As a result, desired components of the aerosol-forming substrate that are also present in the deposition liquid may be trapped within the alginate gel that is deposited on the heating element, resulting in the alginate gel that is deposited on the heating element forming the aerosol-forming substrate.

[0039] In some embodiments, the deposition fluid comprises calcium carbonate (CaCO3). In some preferred embodiments, the deposition fluid comprises sodium alginate (AlgNa) and calcium carbonate (CaCO3).

[0040] In some embodiments, the deposition solution contains iron(II) (Fe 2+ In some preferred embodiments, the deposition solution contains sodium alginate and iron(II) (Fe 2+ ).

[0041] The deposition liquid includes the desired components for forming the aerosol-forming substrate. The deposition liquid preferably includes at least one aerosol former. The aerosol former may include vegetable glycerin. The aerosol former may include propylene glycol.

[0042] The deposition liquid may include an active ingredient. The active ingredient may be nicotine. The deposition liquid may include nicotine.

[0043] The deposition liquid may include other ingredients such as additives and flavorings. The deposition liquid may include menthol.

[0044] In some embodiments, the deposition fluid comprises an acid. The acid may comprise lactic acid.

[0045] The system includes a heating element, an auxiliary electrode, and optionally a reference electrode. The heating element, auxiliary electrode, and reference electrode may be configured in a variety of configurations according to the present disclosure.

[0046] The heating element forms part of the aerosol-generating component of the aerosol-generating system, which comprises the aerosol-forming substrate when the aerosol-forming substrate is deposited on the heating element.

[0047] The system may include an aerosol generation device. In some embodiments, the heating element is a separate component from the aerosol generation device. The heating element may be removably connectable to the aerosol generation device. In some embodiments, the aerosol generation device includes the heating element. The heating element may be an integral part of the aerosol generation device.

[0048] In some embodiments, the aerosol generating device is configured to receive power from an external power source. The aerosol generating device preferably comprises a power source. The power source is preferably arranged to supply power to the heating element. If the heating element is removably coupleable to the aerosol generating device, the power source may be arranged to supply power to the heating element when the heating element is coupled to the aerosol generating device. The aerosol generating device may be configured to supply power to the heating element to heat an aerosol-forming substrate deposited on the heating element and generate an aerosol from the aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol generating device may be configured to supply power to the heating element to deposit the aerosol-forming substrate on the heating element by electrophoretic deposition when at least a portion of the heating element and at least a portion of the auxiliary electrode are immersed in the deposition liquid.

[0049] If the aerosol generating device comprises a heating element, the step of immersing at least a portion of the heating element in the deposition liquid may comprise immersing at least a portion of the aerosol generating device in the deposition liquid.

[0050] In some embodiments, the aerosol generating device is configured to removably receive the auxiliary electrode. In some embodiments, the aerosol generating device comprises the auxiliary electrode. The auxiliary electrode may form an integral part of the aerosol generating device. If the aerosol generating device comprises a power source, the power source may be arranged to supply power to the auxiliary electrode.

[0051] The aerosol generating device may be configured to supply power to the auxiliary electrode when at least a portion of the heating element and at least a portion of the auxiliary electrode are immersed in the deposition liquid to deposit the aerosol-forming substrate on the heating element by electrophoretic deposition.The aerosol generating device may be configured to supply a voltage between the heating element and the auxiliary electrode when at least a portion of the heating element and at least a portion of the auxiliary electrode are immersed in the deposition liquid to deposit the aerosol-forming substrate on the heating element by electrophoretic deposition.

[0052] If the aerosol generating device comprises an auxiliary electrode, the step of immersing at least a portion of the auxiliary electrode in the deposition liquid may comprise immersing at least a portion of the aerosol generating device in the deposition liquid.

[0053] If the system includes a reference electrode, the aerosol generating device may be configured to removably receive the reference electrode. In some embodiments, the aerosol generating device includes a reference electrode. The reference electrode may form an integral part of the aerosol generating device. If the aerosol generating device includes a power source, the power source may be arranged to provide power to the reference electrode.

[0054] The aerosol generating device may be configured to supply power to the reference electrode when at least a portion of the heating element, at least a portion of the auxiliary electrode, and at least a portion of the reference electrode are immersed in the deposition liquid, to deposit the aerosol-forming substrate on the heating element by electrophoretic deposition. The aerosol generating device may be configured to supply a voltage between the heating element, the auxiliary electrode, and the reference electrode, to deposit the aerosol-forming substrate on the heating element by electrophoretic deposition, when at least a portion of the heating element, at least a portion of the auxiliary electrode, and at least a portion of the reference electrode are immersed in the deposition liquid.

[0055] If the system includes a reference electrode and the aerosol generating device includes a reference electrode, the step of immersing at least a portion of the reference electrode in the deposition liquid may include immersing at least a portion of the aerosol generating device in the deposition liquid.

[0056] According to the present disclosure, there is provided an aerosol generating device comprising a heating element and an auxiliary electrode. The aerosol generating device may be configured to provide a voltage between the heating element and the auxiliary electrode. The aerosol generating device may comprise a power supply arranged to provide power to the heating element. The power supply may also be arranged to provide power to the auxiliary electrode. The aerosol generating device may further comprise a reference electrode. The aerosol generating device may be configured to provide a voltage between the heating element, the auxiliary electrode and the reference electrode. If the aerosol generating device comprises a power supply, the power supply may be arranged to provide power to the reference electrode.

[0057] The aerosol generating device is preferably portable. The aerosol generating device may be a handheld device. The aerosol generating device may have a size comparable to a conventional cigar or cigarette. The aerosol generating device may have an overall length of about 30 millimeters to about 150 millimeters. The aerosol generating device may have an outer diameter of about 5 millimeters to about 30 millimeters. The aerosol generating device may be a personal vaporizer, an electronic cigarette, or a heat-not-burn device.

[0058] In some embodiments, the aerosol-generation component is a separate component from the aerosol-generation device. The aerosol-generation component may be removably connectable to the aerosol-generation device. An aerosol-generation component that is a separate component from and removably connectable to the aerosol-generation device may be referred to as a cartridge of the aerosol generation system.

[0059] The system may further comprise a cartridge. The cartridge may be configured to be removably coupled to the aerosol generating device to form an aerosol generating system. The cartridge may include a heating element. The heating element may be an integral part of the cartridge. The cartridge may comprise a heating element and an aerosol-forming substrate deposited on the heating element. The aerosol generating device may be configured to be electrically coupled to the heating element in the cartridge when the cartridge is coupled to the aerosol generating device. When the cartridge is coupled to the aerosol generating device, the aerosol generating device may be configured to provide power to the heating element to heat the aerosol-forming substrate deposited on the heating element to generate an aerosol from the aerosol-forming substrate. Preferably, the aerosol generating device comprises a power source arranged to provide power to the heating element when the cartridge is coupled to the aerosol generating device.

[0060] If the cartridge comprises a heating element, the step of immersing at least a portion of the heating element in the deposition liquid may include immersing at least a portion of the cartridge in the deposition liquid.

[0061] In some embodiments, the cartridge includes an auxiliary electrode. The auxiliary electrode may form an integral part of the cartridge. The aerosol generation device may be configured to be electrically coupled to the auxiliary electrode in the cartridge when the cartridge is coupled to the aerosol generation device. When the cartridge is coupled to the aerosol generation device, the aerosol generation device may be configured to provide power to the auxiliary electrode. If the aerosol generation device comprises a power source, the power source may be arranged to provide power to the auxiliary electrode when the cartridge is coupled to the aerosol generation device.

[0062] If the cartridge comprises an auxiliary electrode, the step of immersing at least a portion of the auxiliary electrode in the deposition liquid may include immersing at least a portion of the cartridge in the deposition liquid.

[0063] If the system includes a reference electrode, the cartridge may include an auxiliary electrode. The reference electrode may form an integral part of the cartridge. The aerosol generation device may be configured to be electrically coupled to a reference electrode in the cartridge when the cartridge is coupled to the aerosol generation device. The aerosol generation device may be configured to provide power to the reference electrode when the cartridge is coupled to the aerosol generation device. If the aerosol generation device includes a power source, the power source may be arranged to provide power to the reference electrode when the cartridge is coupled to the aerosol generation device.

[0064] Where the system comprises a reference electrode and the cartridge comprises the reference electrode, the step of immersing at least a portion of the reference electrode in the deposition liquid may include immersing at least a portion of the cartridge in the deposition liquid.

[0065] The cartridge may include a housing. The heating element may be fixed within the cartridge housing. The cartridge housing and the heating element may be integrally connected.

[0066] In some preferred embodiments, the cartridge comprises a mouthpiece that enables a user to inhale the aerosol-generating system and receive the aerosol generated by the aerosol-generating system from the heated aerosol-forming substrate.

[0067] In some preferred embodiments, the system comprises a deposition device. When the system comprises a deposition device, the deposition device holds a deposition fluid.

[0068] The deposition device may define a cavity for holding a deposition fluid.The deposition device may include a housing defining a cavity for holding a deposition fluid.

[0069] The deposition device may be configured to receive at least a portion of the heating element. If the system includes a cartridge that includes a heating element, the deposition device may be configured to receive at least a portion of the cartridge. If the system includes an aerosol generation device that includes a heating element, the deposition device may be configured to receive at least a portion of the aerosol generation device.

[0070] In some embodiments, the deposition device simply provides a container for holding the deposition liquid. For example, in a system that includes an aerosol generating device that includes a heating element, an auxiliary electrode, and a power supply arranged to provide a voltage between the heating element and the auxiliary electrode, the deposition device may be provided to hold the deposition liquid.

[0071] In some embodiments, the deposition apparatus is configured to receive power from an external power source. It is preferred that the deposition apparatus comprises a power source. In some preferred embodiments, the deposition apparatus may be configured to be electrically coupled to a heating element. In these embodiments, the deposition apparatus may be configured to provide power to the heating element when the heating element is electrically coupled to the deposition apparatus.

[0072] In some embodiments, the deposition apparatus includes an auxiliary electrode. The deposition apparatus may define a cavity for holding the deposition fluid, and the auxiliary electrode may be disposed at least partially within the cavity. The deposition apparatus may be configured to provide power to the auxiliary electrode. If the deposition apparatus does not include an auxiliary electrode, the deposition apparatus may be configured to be electrically coupled to the auxiliary electrode. In these embodiments, the deposition apparatus may be configured to provide power to the auxiliary electrode when a heating element is electrically coupled to the deposition apparatus.

[0073] In some embodiments in which the system includes a reference electrode, the deposition apparatus includes a reference electrode. If the deposition apparatus defines a cavity that holds the deposition liquid, the reference electrode may be disposed at least partially within the cavity. The deposition apparatus may be configured to provide power to the reference electrode. If the deposition apparatus does not include a reference electrode, the deposition apparatus may be configured to be electrically coupled to the reference electrode. In these embodiments, the deposition apparatus may be configured to provide power to the reference electrode when a heating element is electrically coupled to the deposition apparatus.

[0074] The deposition apparatus may include one or more electrical contact pads. The one or more electrical contact pads may provide an electrical connection between the heating element and the deposition apparatus. If the deposition apparatus does not include an auxiliary electrode, the one or more electrical contact pads may provide an electrical connection between the auxiliary electrode and the deposition apparatus. If the system includes a reference electrode and the deposition apparatus does not include a reference electrode, the one or more electrical contact pads may provide an electrical connection between the reference electrode and the deposition apparatus.

[0075] According to the present disclosure, a deposition apparatus is provided that includes a housing defining a cavity for holding a deposition liquid. The deposition apparatus may include an auxiliary electrode disposed within the cavity and at least partially immersed in the deposition liquid. The deposition apparatus may include an electrical connector disposed within the cavity and at least partially immersed in the deposition liquid. The electrical connector may be configured to be electrically coupled to a heating element received within the cavity and at least partially immersed in the deposition liquid. The deposition apparatus may include a power source. The power source may be arranged to provide a voltage between the electrical connector and the auxiliary electrode. In other words, the deposition apparatus may be configured to provide a voltage between the heating element electrically coupled to the electrical connector and the auxiliary electrode. In some embodiments, the deposition apparatus includes a reference electrode disposed within the cavity and at least partially immersed in the deposition liquid. When the deposition apparatus includes a power source, the power source may be arranged to provide a voltage between the electrical connector, the auxiliary electrode, and the reference electrode. In other words, the deposition apparatus may be configured to provide a voltage between the heating element electrically coupled to the electrical connector, the auxiliary electrode, and the reference electrode.

[0076] The system is configured to apply a voltage between the heating element and the auxiliary electrode, and if the system includes a reference electrode, the system is configured to apply a voltage between the heating element, the auxiliary electrode, and the reference electrode.

[0077] In some embodiments, the system is configured to connect to an external power source, such as a mains power supply, to provide a voltage between the heating element and the auxiliary electrode and, optionally, a reference electrode.

[0078] In these preferred embodiments, the system comprises a power supply. The power supply may be arranged to supply power to the heating element. The power supply may be arranged to supply power to the auxiliary electrode. The power supply may be arranged to supply a voltage between the heating element and the auxiliary electrode. If the system comprises a reference electrode, the power supply may be arranged to supply power to the reference electrode. The power supply may be arranged to supply a voltage between the heating element, the auxiliary electrode and the reference electrode.

[0079] In embodiments that include an aerosol generation device, the aerosol generation device is preferably equipped with a power source. In embodiments that include a deposition device, the deposition device is preferably equipped with a power source. The aerosol generation device may be equipped with a power source, and the deposition device may be equipped with a power source.

[0080] The power source may be a DC power source. The power source may include at least one battery. The at least one battery may include a rechargeable lithium ion battery. Alternatively, the power source may be another form of charge storage device, such as a capacitor.

[0081] The system preferably comprises a controller. The controller may be configured to control the supply of power to the heating element. The controller may be configured to control the supply of power to the auxiliary electrode. The controller may be configured to control the supply of a voltage between the heating element and the auxiliary electrode. If the system comprises a reference electrode, the controller may be configured to control the supply of power to the reference electrode. In these embodiments, the controller may be configured to control the supply of a voltage between the heating element and the auxiliary and reference electrodes.

[0082] In embodiments comprising an aerosol generating device, the aerosol generating device is preferably equipped with a controller. In embodiments comprising a deposition device, the deposition device is preferably equipped with a controller. The aerosol generating device may be equipped with a controller, and the deposition device may be equipped with a controller.

[0083] The controller may comprise a microprocessor, a programmable microprocessor, a microcontroller, or an application specific integrated circuit chip (ASIC) or other electronic circuitry capable of providing control. The controller may comprise additional electronic components. For example, in some embodiments, the controller may comprise any of a sensor element, a switch element, and a display element. The controller may include an RF power sensor. The controller may include a power amplifier.

[0084] In the embodiment comprising an aerosol generating device, the aerosol generating device preferably comprises a controller. The controller may be configured to control the supply of power to the heating element to heat the aerosol-forming substrate deposited on the heating element and generate an aerosol from the aerosol-forming substrate. In the case where the aerosol generating device comprises a heating element and an auxiliary electrode, the controller may be configured to control the supply of a voltage between the heating element and the auxiliary electrode when at least a portion of the heating element and at least a portion of the auxiliary electrode are immersed in the deposition liquid to deposit the aerosol-forming substrate on the heating element by electrophoretic deposition. In the case where the aerosol generating device comprises a heating element, an auxiliary electrode and a reference electrode, the controller may be configured to control the supply of a voltage between the heating element, the auxiliary electrode and the reference electrode when at least a portion of the heating element, at least a portion of the auxiliary electrode and at least a portion of the reference electrode are immersed in the deposition liquid to deposit the aerosol-forming substrate on the heating element by electrophoretic deposition.

[0085] In the embodiment comprising a deposition device, the deposition device preferably comprises a controller. When the deposition device comprises an auxiliary electrode, the controller may be configured to control the supply of a voltage between the heating element and the auxiliary electrode when at least a portion of the heating element and at least a portion of the auxiliary electrode are immersed in the deposition liquid, to deposit the aerosol-forming substrate on the heating element by electrophoretic deposition. When the aerosol generating device comprises an auxiliary electrode and a reference electrode, the controller may be configured to control the supply of a voltage between the heating element, the auxiliary electrode, and the reference electrode when at least a portion of the heating element, at least a portion of the auxiliary electrode, and at least a portion of the reference electrode are immersed in the deposition liquid, to deposit the aerosol-forming substrate on the heating element by electrophoretic deposition.

[0086] In some preferred embodiments, the system comprises a cleaner. The cleaner is configured to remove the aerosol-forming substrate from the heating element. The cleaner may comprise a cleaning device separate from other components of the system. When the system comprises a deposition device, it is preferred that the deposition device further comprises a cleaner.

[0087] The cleaner may include a brush. The cleaner may include a scraper.

[0088] In some embodiments, the cleaner comprises a cleaning liquid. The cleaning liquid may be any suitable cleaning liquid for removing the aerosol-forming substrate from the heating element. For example, the cleaning liquid may comprise an acid. The cleaning liquid may comprise water. In some embodiments, the cleaning liquid is a deposition liquid.

[0089] Where the system comprises a deposition apparatus and the deposition apparatus comprises a cleaner, the deposition apparatus may comprise a cleaning section comprising a cleaning cavity configured to receive a heating element. The cleaning cavity may hold a cleaning fluid.

[0090] In some embodiments, the deposition apparatus may include a cleaning auxiliary electrode disposed within the cleaning cavity and at least partially immersed in the cleaning liquid. The deposition apparatus may be electrically coupled to the heating element and configured to provide a voltage between the heating element and the cleaning auxiliary electrode when the heating element is received in the cleaning liquid to electrically clean the heating element.

[0091] In some embodiments, the cleaning liquid is a deposition liquid and the deposition apparatus is electrically coupled to the heating element and configured to apply a voltage between the heating element and the auxiliary electrode when the heating element is received in the cleaning liquid to electrically clean the heating element. Typically, the voltage applied between the heating element and the auxiliary electrode to clean the heating element is opposite to the voltage applied between the heating element and the auxiliary electrode to deposit the aerosol-forming substrate on the heating element.

[0092] The method of forming an aerosol-generating component may further include a step of cleaning the heating element. The step of cleaning the heating element may remove any existing aerosol-forming substrate and any undesirable material from the surface of the heating element. In some preferred embodiments, the step of cleaning the heating element is performed before the step of immersing the heating element in the deposition liquid. Advantageously, cleaning the heating element before depositing a new aerosol-forming substrate on the heating element may improve the contact between the heating element and the aerosol-forming substrate and may improve the consistency of the aerosol generated from the aerosol-forming substrate.

[0093] The step of cleaning the heating element may include brushing the heating element with a brush.The step of cleaning the heating element may include scraping the heating element with a scraper.

[0094] In some embodiments, cleaning the heating element comprises immersing at least a portion of the heating element in a cleaning liquid.

[0095] The method may further include immersing a cleaning auxiliary electrode in the cleaning liquid, immersing at least a portion of the heating element in the cleaning liquid, and applying a voltage between the heating element and the cleaning auxiliary electrode to electrically clean the heating element.

[0096] When the cleaning liquid is a deposition liquid, the step of cleaning the heating element may include supplying a voltage between the heating element and an auxiliary electrode to clean the heating element, the voltage supplied between the heating element and the auxiliary electrode to clean the heating element being opposite to the voltage supplied between the heating element and the auxiliary electrode to deposit the aerosol-forming substrate on the heating element by electrophoretic deposition.

[0097] According to the present disclosure, the aerosol-forming substrate is deposited on a heating element of an aerosol generating system by electrophoretic deposition. The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a solid. The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a liquid. Preferably, the aerosol-forming substrate comprises a gel. The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise any combination of two or more of a solid, a liquid, and a gel.

[0098] The components of the aerosol-forming substrate are included in the deposition liquid before the aerosol-forming substrate is deposited on the heating element. Thus, any of the components of the aerosol-forming substrate described below may be included in the deposition liquid.

[0099] The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise nicotine, a nicotine derivative, or a nicotine analogue. The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise one or more nicotine salts. The one or more nicotine salts may be selected from the list consisting of nicotine citrate, nicotine lactate, nicotine pyruvate, nicotine bitartrate, nicotine pectinate, nicotine alginate, and nicotine salicylate.

[0100] The aerosol-forming substrate may include an aerosol former. As used herein, an "aerosol former" is any suitable known compound or mixture of compounds that promotes the formation of a dense and stable aerosol upon use and is substantially resistant to thermal degradation at the use temperature of the aerosol-generating article. Suitable aerosol formers are well known in the art and include, but are not limited to, polyhydric alcohols such as triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol, glycerin, esters of polyhydric alcohols such as glycerol monoacetate, diacetate, or triacetate, and aliphatic esters of mono-, di-, or polycarboxylic acids such as dimethyl dodecanedioate, dimethyl tetradecanedioate, etc. Preferred aerosol formers are polyhydric alcohols or mixtures thereof such as triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol, and glycerin.

[0101] The aerosol-forming substrate may further comprise a flavoring agent. The flavoring agent may comprise a volatile flavor component. The flavoring agent may comprise menthol. As used herein, the term "menthol" refers to the compound 2-isopropyl-5-methylcyclohexanol in any of its isomeric forms. The flavoring agent may provide a flavor selected from the group consisting of menthol, lemon, vanilla, orange, wintergreen, cherry, and cinnamon. The flavoring agent may comprise a volatile tobacco flavor compound that is released from the substrate upon heating.

[0102] In some embodiments, the aerosol-forming substrate comprises one or more sensory enhancers.Suitable sensory enhancers include flavorants and sensates (such as cooling agents).Suitable flavorants include natural or synthetic menthol, peppermint, spearmint, coffee, tea, spices (such as cinnamon, clove, ginger, or combinations thereof), cocoa, vanilla, fruit flavors, chocolate, eucalyptus, geranium, eugenol, agave, juniper, anethole, linalool, and any combination thereof.

[0103] Below is provided a non-exhaustive list of non-limiting examples, any one or more of the features of these examples may be combined with any one or more features of the other examples, embodiments, or aspects described herein. EXAMPLES

[0104] 1. A method of forming an aerosol-generating component of an aerosol-generating system, comprising: Immersing at least a portion of an auxiliary electrode in the deposition liquid; immersing at least a portion of the heating element in the deposition liquid; and and applying a voltage between the heating element and an auxiliary electrode to deposit the aerosol-forming substrate onto the heating element by electrophoretic deposition. 2. The method of example 1, wherein the heating element is substantially planar. 3. The method of example 1, wherein the heating element is a wire. 4. The method of example 1, wherein the heating element is a coil. 5. The method of any one of Examples 1-4, wherein at least a portion of the heating element is disposed on a substrate comprising an electrically insulating material. 6. The method of any one of claims 1-4, wherein the step of immersing at least a portion of the heating element in the deposition liquid comprises immersing at least a portion of each of the plurality of heating elements in the deposition liquid. 7. The method of example 6, wherein at least a portion of each of the plurality of heating elements is disposed on a substrate comprising an electrically insulating material. 8. The method of example 6 or 7, wherein the multiple heating elements are arranged to form an array, each heating element being spaced apart from the other heating elements. 9. The method of example 6, 7 or 8, wherein each of the plurality of heating elements is substantially planar. 10. The method of example 6, 7, or 8, wherein each of the multiple heating elements is a wire. 11. The method of example 6, 7 or 8, wherein each of the multiple heating elements is a coil. 12. The method of any one of Examples 1 to 11, wherein the deposition liquid is a solution. 13. The method of any one of Examples 1 to 12, wherein the deposition liquid comprises water. 14. The method of any one of Examples 1 to 13, wherein the sediment liquid comprises sugars. 15. The method of example 14, wherein the sugar comprises a monosaccharide. 16. The method of example 14 or 15, wherein the saccharide comprises a polysaccharide. 17. The method of example 16, wherein the polysaccharide comprises sodium alginate. 18. The method of example 16, wherein the polysaccharide is a cellulose derivative. 19. The method of any one of Examples 1-18, wherein the deposition solution comprises sodium alginate and calcium carbonate. 20. The method of any one of Examples 1 to 18, wherein the deposition solution comprises sodium alginate and iron(II). 21. The method of any one of Examples 1 to 20, wherein the deposition liquid comprises a flavoring agent. 22. The method of any one of Examples 1 to 21, wherein the deposition liquid comprises nicotine. 23. The method of any one of Examples 1 to 22, wherein the deposition liquid comprises an aerosol former. 24. The method of example 23, wherein the aerosol former comprises vegetable glycerin. 25. The method of example 23 or 24, wherein the aerosol former comprises propylene glycol. 26. The method of any one of embodiments 1 to 25, wherein the deposition solution comprises an acid. 27. The method of example 26, wherein the acid comprises lactic acid. 28. The method of any one of Examples 1 to 27, wherein the auxiliary electrode comprises silver. 29. The method of any one of Examples 1 to 28, wherein the auxiliary electrode comprises silver chloride. 30. The method of any one of Examples 1 to 29, wherein the step of immersing at least a portion of the heating element in the deposition liquid includes immersing at least a portion of a cartridge of an aerosol generating system, the cartridge containing the heating element. 31. The method of example 30, wherein the cartridge comprises an auxiliary electrode, and the step of immersing at least a portion of the auxiliary electrode in the deposition liquid comprises immersing at least a portion of the cartridge in the deposition liquid. 32. The method of example 30 or 31, wherein the cartridge comprises a mouthpiece. 33. The method of any one of examples 30, 31, or 32, wherein the cartridge is removably connectable to an aerosol generating device. 34. The method of example 33, wherein the aerosol generating device comprises a power source arranged to supply power to the heating element when the cartridge is coupled to the aerosol generating device to heat the aerosol-forming substrate deposited on the heating element to generate an aerosol from the aerosol-forming substrate. 35. The method of any one of Examples 1 to 29, wherein the step of immersing at least a portion of the heating element in the deposition liquid comprises immersing at least a portion of an aerosol generating device, the aerosol generating device comprising the heating element. 36. The method of example 35, wherein the aerosol generating device comprises an auxiliary electrode, and the step of immersing at least a portion of the auxiliary electrode in the deposition liquid comprises immersing at least a portion of the aerosol generating device in the deposition liquid. 37. The method of embodiment 35 or 36, wherein the aerosol generating device comprises a power source arranged to supply power to the heating element to heat the aerosol-forming substrate deposited on the heating element and generate an aerosol from the aerosol-forming substrate. 38. The method of any one of Examples 34 and 37, wherein the step of supplying a voltage between the heating element and the auxiliary electrode to deposit the aerosol-forming substrate on the heating element by electrophoretic deposition comprises supplying power to the heating element from a power supply of the aerosol generating device. 39. The method of any one of Examples 34, 37, or 38, wherein the step of applying a voltage between the heating element and the auxiliary electrode to deposit the aerosol-forming substrate on the heating element by electrophoretic deposition comprises applying power to the auxiliary electrode from a power supply of the aerosol generating device. 40. The method of any one of Examples 1-39, wherein the method further comprises immersing at least a portion of the reference electrode in the deposition liquid, and wherein the step of applying a voltage between the heating element and the auxiliary electrode comprises applying a voltage between the heating element, the auxiliary electrode, and the reference electrode to deposit the aerosol-forming substrate on the heating element by electrophoretic deposition. 41. The method of any one of Examples 34, 37, 38, and 39, wherein the method further comprises immersing a reference electrode in the deposition liquid, wherein the step of supplying a voltage between the heating element and the auxiliary electrode comprises supplying a voltage between the heating element, the auxiliary electrode, and the reference electrode to deposit the aerosol-forming substrate on the heating element by electrophoretic deposition, and wherein the step of supplying a voltage between the heating element, the auxiliary electrode, and the reference electrode to deposit the aerosol-forming substrate on the heating element by electrophoretic deposition comprises supplying power to the reference electrode from a power supply of the aerosol generating device. 42. The method of any one of Examples 30-34, wherein the method further comprises immersing a reference electrode in the deposition liquid, the step of supplying a voltage between the heating element and the auxiliary electrode comprises supplying a voltage between the heating element, the auxiliary electrode, and the reference electrode, and depositing an aerosol-forming substrate on the heating element by electrophoretic deposition, the cartridge comprises a reference electrode, and the step of immersing at least a portion of the reference electrode in the deposition liquid comprises immersing at least a portion of the cartridge in the deposition liquid. 43. The method of any one of Examples 33-37, wherein the method further comprises immersing a reference electrode in the deposition liquid, the step of supplying a voltage between the heating element and the auxiliary electrode comprises supplying a voltage between the heating element, the auxiliary electrode, and the reference electrode, and depositing an aerosol-forming substrate on the heating element by electrophoretic deposition, the aerosol-generating device comprising a reference electrode, and the step of immersing at least a portion of the reference electrode in the deposition liquid comprises immersing at least a portion of the aerosol-generating device in the deposition liquid. 44. The method of any one of Examples 40-43, wherein the reference electrode comprises platinum. 45. The method of any one of embodiments 1-44, wherein the deposition liquid is maintained within a deposition device. 46. ​​The method of any one of examples 1-30 or 35, wherein the deposition liquid is held in a deposition apparatus, and the deposition apparatus includes an auxiliary electrode. 47. The method of any one of Examples 1 to 37, wherein the deposition liquid is held in a deposition apparatus, the deposition apparatus includes a power supply arranged to supply a voltage between the heating element and the auxiliary electrode, and the step of supplying a voltage between the heating element and the auxiliary electrode and depositing the aerosol-forming substrate on the heating element by electrophoretic deposition includes supplying a voltage from the power supply of the deposition apparatus between the heating element and the auxiliary electrode. 48. The method of any one of Examples 1-30 or 35, wherein the deposition liquid is held in a deposition apparatus, the deposition apparatus comprises an auxiliary electrode, the deposition apparatus comprises a power supply arranged to supply a voltage between the heating element and the auxiliary electrode, and the step of supplying a voltage between the heating element and the auxiliary electrode and depositing the aerosol-forming substrate on the heating element by electrophoretic deposition comprises supplying a voltage from the deposition apparatus power supply between the heating element and the auxiliary electrode. 49. The method of any one of Examples 1-39, wherein the deposition liquid is held in the deposition apparatus, the method further comprises immersing a reference electrode in the deposition liquid, the deposition apparatus comprises a reference electrode, and the step of applying a voltage between the heating element and the auxiliary electrode comprises applying a voltage between the heating element, the auxiliary electrode, and the reference electrode, and depositing the aerosol-forming substrate on the heating element by electrophoretic deposition. 50. The method of example 46, 47, or 48, wherein the method further comprises immersing a reference electrode in the deposition liquid, and the step of applying a voltage comprises applying a voltage between the heating element, the auxiliary electrode, and the reference electrode from a power supply of the deposition apparatus to deposit the aerosol-forming substrate on the heating element by electrophoretic deposition. 51. The method of embodiment 49 or 50, wherein the deposition apparatus comprises an auxiliary electrode. 52. The method of any one of Examples 45-48, wherein the deposition apparatus comprises a controller configured to control the supply of voltage between the heating element and the auxiliary electrode. 53. The method of example 49, 50, or 51, wherein the deposition apparatus comprises a controller configured to control the supply of voltage between the heating element, the auxiliary electrode, and the reference electrode. 54. The method of any one of examples 1-53, wherein the method further comprises the step of cleaning the heating element. 55. The method of example 54, wherein the step of cleaning the heating element is performed before the step of immersing at least a portion of the heating element in the deposition liquid. 56. The method of embodiment 54 or 55, wherein the step of cleaning the heating element includes at least one of brushing the heating element with a brush and scraping the heating element with a scraper. 57. The method of any one of examples 54-56, wherein the step of cleaning the heating element comprises immersing at least a portion of the heating element in a cleaning liquid. 58. The method of embodiment 57, wherein the cleaning solution comprises an acid. 60. The cleaning solution is a deposition solution and the method comprises: Immersing a cleaning auxiliary electrode in a cleaning liquid; Immersing at least a portion of the heating element in a cleaning liquid; and 60. The method of claim 58 or 59, further comprising providing a voltage between the heating element and the cleaning auxiliary electrode to electrically clean the heating element. 61. A system for forming an aerosol-generating component of an aerosol-generating system, the system comprising: A heating element; The sediment liquid; An auxiliary electrode is provided, The system is configured to apply a voltage between the heating element and the auxiliary electrode when at least a portion of the heating element and at least a portion of the auxiliary electrode are immersed in a deposition liquid to deposit an aerosol-forming substrate on the heating element by electrophoretic deposition. 62. The system of example 61, wherein the heating element is substantially planar. 63. The system described in Example 61, wherein the heating element is a wire. 64. The system of example 61, wherein the heating element is a coil. 65. The system of any one of Examples 61-64, wherein at least a portion of the heating element is disposed on a substrate comprising an electrically insulating material. 66. A system described in any one of Examples 61 to 64, wherein the heating element includes multiple heating elements. 67. The system of example 66, wherein at least a portion of each of the plurality of heating elements is disposed on a substrate comprising an electrically insulating material. 68. A system described in example 66 or 67, wherein multiple heating elements are arranged to form an array, each heating element being spaced apart from the other heating elements. 69. A system described in example 66, 67 or 68, wherein each of the multiple heating elements is substantially planar. 70. A system described in example 66, 67, or 68, wherein each of the multiple heating elements is a wire. 71. A system described in examples 66, 67 or 68, wherein each of the multiple heating elements is a coil. 72. The system of any one of Examples 61 to 71, wherein the deposition liquid is a solution. 73. The system of any one of embodiments 61-72, wherein the deposition liquid comprises water. 74. A system described in any one of Examples 61 to 73, wherein the deposition liquid contains sugars. 75. The system of example 74, wherein the sugar comprises a monosaccharide. 76. The system of example 74 or 75, wherein the sugar comprises a polysaccharide. 77. The system described in Example 76, wherein the polysaccharide comprises sodium alginate. 78. The system described in Example 76, wherein the polysaccharide is a cellulose derivative. 79. The system of any one of examples 61-78, wherein the deposition liquid comprises sodium alginate and calcium carbonate. 80. The system described in any one of Examples 61 to 78, wherein the deposition liquid contains sodium alginate and iron(II). 81. A system described in any one of Examples 61 to 80, wherein the deposition liquid contains a flavoring agent. 82. A system described in any one of Examples 61 to 81, wherein the deposition liquid contains nicotine. 83. The system of any one of Examples 61-82, wherein the deposition liquid comprises an aerosol former. 84. The system of example 83, wherein the aerosol former comprises vegetable glycerin. 85. The system described in example 83 or 84, wherein the aerosol former comprises propylene glycol. 86. The system of any one of embodiments 61-85, wherein the deposition liquid comprises an acid. 87. The system of example 86, wherein the acid comprises lactic acid. 88. A system described in any one of examples 61 to 87, wherein the auxiliary electrode comprises silver. 89. The system of any one of examples 61 to 88, wherein the auxiliary electrode comprises silver chloride. 90. A system described in any one of Examples 61 to 89, wherein the system further comprises a cartridge of an aerosol generation system, the cartridge comprising a heating element. 91. The system of example 90, wherein the cartridge comprises an auxiliary electrode. 92. The system of example 90 or 91, wherein the cartridge comprises a mouthpiece. 93. The system of embodiment 90, 91 or 92, wherein the cartridge is removably connectable to an aerosol generating device of the aerosol generating system. 94. The system described in Example 93, wherein the aerosol generating device includes a power source arranged to supply power to the heating element when the cartridge is coupled to the aerosol generating device to heat the aerosol-forming substrate deposited on the heating element to generate an aerosol from the aerosol-forming substrate. 95. A system described in any one of Examples 61 to 89, wherein the system comprises an aerosol generating device, and the aerosol generating device comprises a heating element. 96. The system described in Example 95, wherein the heating element is removably connectable to the aerosol generating device. 97. The system described in Example 95, wherein the heating element is an integral part of the aerosol generating device. 98. A system described in examples 95, 96 or 97, wherein the aerosol generating device is provided with an auxiliary electrode. 99. A system described in any one of Examples 95 to 98, wherein the aerosol generating device includes a power source arranged to supply power to a heating element to heat an aerosol-forming substrate deposited on the heating element and generate an aerosol from the aerosol-forming substrate. 100. The system of embodiment 94 or 99, wherein the aerosol generating device comprises a controller configured to control the power supply from the power source to the heating element. 101. The system described in Example 100, wherein the controller is configured to control the supply of power from the power source to the heating element when the heating element and auxiliary electrode are immersed in the deposition liquid to deposit an aerosol-forming substrate on the heating element by electrophoretic deposition. 102. A system described in embodiments 100 or 101, wherein the controller is configured to control the supply of power from the power source to the auxiliary electrode. 103. The system described in Example 102, wherein the controller is configured to control the supply of power from the power source to the auxiliary electrode when the heating element and the auxiliary electrode are immersed in the deposition liquid to deposit the aerosol-forming substrate on the heating element by electrophoretic deposition. 104. A system described in any one of Examples 61 to 103, wherein the system further comprises a reference electrode, and when at least a portion of the heating element, at least a portion of the auxiliary electrode, and at least a portion of the reference electrode are immersed in the deposition liquid, the system is configured to supply a voltage between the heating element, the auxiliary electrode, and the reference electrode to deposit an aerosol-forming substrate on the heating element by electrophoretic deposition. 105. A system described in any one of Examples 94 or 99 to 103, wherein the system further comprises a reference electrode, and when at least a portion of the heating element, at least a portion of the auxiliary electrode, and at least a portion of the reference electrode are immersed in the deposition liquid, the system is configured to supply a voltage between the heating element, the auxiliary electrode, and the reference electrode from a power source of the aerosol generating device to deposit an aerosol-forming substrate on the heating element by electrophoretic deposition. 106. A system described in any one of Examples 90 to 94, wherein the cartridge further comprises a reference electrode, and when at least a portion of the heating element, at least a portion of the auxiliary electrode, and at least a portion of the reference electrode are immersed in the deposition liquid, the system is configured to supply a voltage between the heating element, the auxiliary electrode, and the reference electrode to deposit an aerosol-forming substrate on the heating element by electrophoretic deposition. 107. A system described in any one of Examples 93 to 99, wherein the aerosol generating device further comprises a reference electrode, and when at least a portion of the heating element, at least a portion of the auxiliary electrode, and at least a portion of the reference electrode are immersed in the deposition liquid, the system is configured to supply a voltage between the heating element, the auxiliary electrode, and the reference electrode to deposit an aerosol-forming substrate on the heating element by electrophoretic deposition. 108. The system of any one of examples 104-107, wherein the reference electrode comprises platinum. 109. The system of any one of Examples 61-108, wherein the system further comprises a deposition device, and the deposition liquid is retained within the deposition device. 110. The system of any one of Examples 61-90 or 95-97, wherein the system further comprises a deposition device, the deposition fluid is held within the deposition device, and the deposition device comprises an auxiliary electrode. 111. The system of any one of Examples 61 to 101, wherein the system further comprises a deposition device, the deposition liquid being held within the deposition device, and the deposition device comprises a power supply arranged to supply a voltage between the heating element and the auxiliary electrode to deposit the aerosol-forming substrate on the heating element by electrophoretic deposition. 112. The system of any one of Examples 61-90 or 95-97, wherein the system further comprises a deposition device, the deposition liquid being held within the deposition device, the deposition device comprising an auxiliary electrode, and the deposition device comprising a power supply arranged to provide a voltage between the heating element and the auxiliary electrode to deposit the aerosol-forming substrate on the heating element by electrophoretic deposition. 113. The system of any one of Examples 61 to 103, wherein the system further comprises a deposition device and a reference electrode, the deposition liquid is held in the deposition device, the deposition device comprises a reference electrode, and the system is configured to apply a voltage between the heating element, the auxiliary electrode, and the reference electrode to deposit the aerosol-forming substrate on the heating element by electrophoretic deposition. 114. The system of any one of Examples 110, 111 or 112, wherein the system further comprises a deposition device and a reference electrode, the deposition device comprising a reference electrode, and a power supply arranged to supply a voltage between the heating element, the auxiliary electrode and the reference electrode when at least a portion of the heating element, at least a portion of the auxiliary electrode and at least a portion of the reference electrode are immersed in the deposition liquid, thereby depositing the aerosol-forming substrate on the heating element by electrophoretic deposition. 115. The system of embodiment 113 or 114, wherein the deposition apparatus comprises an auxiliary electrode. 116. The system of any one of Examples 109-112, wherein the deposition apparatus includes a controller configured to control the supply of voltage between the heating element and the auxiliary electrode. 117. The system of example 113, 114, or 115, wherein the deposition apparatus includes a controller configured to control the supply of voltage between the heating element, the auxiliary electrode, and the reference electrode. 118. The system of any one of Examples 1 to 117, wherein the system further comprises a cleaner configured to remove the aerosol-forming substrate from the heating element. 119. The system of any one of Examples 109-118, wherein the deposition apparatus further comprises a cleaner configured to remove the aerosol-forming substrate from the heating element. 120. The system of embodiment 118 or 119, wherein the cleaner comprises a brush. 121. The system of example 118, 119, or 120, wherein the cleaner comprises a scraper. 122. The system of any one of examples 118-121, wherein the cleaner comprises a cleaning liquid. 123. The system of example 119, wherein the deposition device comprises a cleaning section comprising a cleaning cavity configured to receive a heating element, the cleaning cavity holding a cleaning fluid. 124. The system of embodiment 122 or 123, wherein the cleaning solution comprises an acid. 125. The system of example 122, wherein the cleaning liquid is a deposition liquid, the heating element is received within the cleaning liquid, and the deposition device is configured to electrically couple to the heating element and supply a voltage between the heating element and the auxiliary electrode when electrically cleaning the heating element. 126. The system of example 123, wherein the cleaning liquid is a deposition liquid, the deposition device includes a cleaning auxiliary electrode disposed within the cleaning liquid, and the deposition device is configured to be electrically coupled to the heating element and to supply a voltage between the heating element and the auxiliary electrode when the heating element is received within the cleaning liquid to electrically clean the heating element. 127. A deposition apparatus comprising a housing defining a cavity for holding a deposition fluid. 128. The deposition device of example 127, wherein the deposition device is configured to be electrically coupled to a heating element of the aerosol formation system. 129. The deposition apparatus of example 128, further comprising an auxiliary electrode disposed within the cavity and at least partially immersed in the deposition liquid. 130. The deposition apparatus of Example 129, further comprising a power supply electrically coupled to the deposition apparatus and arranged to apply a voltage between the heating element and the auxiliary electrode to deposit the aerosol-forming substrate on the heating element when at least a portion of the heating element is immersed in the deposition liquid. 131. The deposition apparatus of example 129, further comprising a reference electrode disposed within the cavity and at least partially immersed in the deposition liquid. 132. The deposition apparatus of Example 131, further comprising a power supply electrically coupled to the deposition apparatus and arranged to apply a voltage between the heating element, the auxiliary electrode, and the reference electrode to deposit the aerosol-forming substrate on the heating element when at least a portion of the heating element is immersed in the deposition liquid. 133. The deposition apparatus of any one of examples 130 and 132, further comprising a controller for controlling the supply of power from the power source. 134. The deposition device of example 127, wherein the deposition device is configured to receive at least a portion of a heating element of the aerosol generating system within the cavity, and when the heating element is received within the cavity, the heating element is at least partially immersed in the deposition liquid. 135. A deposition device as described in Example 127, wherein the deposition device is configured to receive at least a portion of a cartridge of an aerosol generating system within the cavity, the cartridge comprising a heating element that is at least partially immersed in the deposition liquid when the cartridge is received within the cavity. 136. The deposition device of Example 127, wherein the deposition device is configured to receive at least a portion of the aerosol generating device within the cavity, the aerosol generating device comprising a heating element that is at least partially immersed in the deposition liquid when the cartridge is received within the cavity. 137. The deposition apparatus of any one of embodiments 127-136, wherein the deposition fluid is a solution. 138. The deposition apparatus of any one of embodiments 127-137, wherein the deposition liquid comprises water. 139. The deposition apparatus of any one of embodiments 127-138, wherein the deposition liquid contains a sugar. 140. The deposition apparatus of example 139, wherein the sugar comprises a monosaccharide. 141. The deposition apparatus of example 139 or 140, wherein the sugar comprises a polysaccharide. 142. The deposition apparatus of example 141, wherein the polysaccharide comprises sodium alginate. 143. The deposition apparatus of example 141, wherein the polysaccharide is a cellulose derivative. 144. The deposition apparatus of any one of examples 127-143, wherein the deposition liquid comprises sodium alginate and calcium carbonate. 145. The deposition apparatus of any one of examples 127-143, wherein the deposition liquid comprises sodium alginate and iron(II). 146. The deposition device of any one of examples 127-145, wherein the deposition liquid includes a flavoring agent. 147. The deposition apparatus of any one of examples 127-146, wherein the deposition liquid contains nicotine. 148. The deposition apparatus of any one of examples 127-147, wherein the deposition liquid includes at least one aerosol former. 149. The deposition apparatus of example 148, wherein the aerosol former comprises vegetable glycerin. 150. The deposition apparatus of example 147 or 149, wherein the aerosol former comprises propylene glycol. 151. The deposition apparatus of any one of embodiments 127-150, wherein the deposition solution comprises an acid. 152. The deposition apparatus of example 151, wherein the acid comprises lactic acid. 153. An aerosol generating device comprising: A heating element; An auxiliary electrode; a power supply arranged to supply power to the heating element and to supply a voltage between the heating element and the auxiliary electrode; A controller, Controlling the power supply to the heating element to heat the aerosol-forming substrate deposited on the heating element to generate an aerosol; and a controller configured to control the supply of voltage between the heating element and the auxiliary electrode. 154. A reference electrode is further provided; a power supply arranged to provide a voltage between the heating element, the auxiliary electrode and the reference electrode; An aerosol generating device as described in Example 153, wherein the controller is configured to control the supply of voltage between the heating element, the auxiliary electrode, and the reference electrode. 155. A cartridge for an aerosol generating system, comprising: A heating element, and and an auxiliary electrode. 156. The cartridge of example 155, wherein the aerosol-forming substrate is deposited on a heating element. 157. The cartridge of example 155 or 156, further comprising a reference electrode.

[0105] Embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: [Brief description of the drawings]

[0106] [Figure 1a] 1a and 1b are schematic diagrams of a simplified system for forming an aerosol-generating component of an aerosol-generating system according to the present disclosure. [Figure 1b] Same as above. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a heating element and deposition apparatus according to the present disclosure. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of the heating element and deposition apparatus of FIG. 2, with the heating element received within the deposition apparatus. [Figure 4a] 4a and 4b are schematic diagrams of an aerosol generation system comprising an aerosol generating device and the heating element of FIG. 2 according to the present disclosure. [Figure 4b] Same as above. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of a cleaning device according to the present disclosure. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of a deposition apparatus including a cleaner according to the present disclosure. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of a deposition apparatus including a cleaner according to the present disclosure. [Figure 8a] 8a and 8b are schematic diagrams of an aerosol generating device according to the present disclosure. [Figure 8b] Same as above. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram of a cartridge and deposition device for an aerosol generation system according to the present disclosure. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of the cartridge and deposition device of FIG. 9, where the cartridge is received within the deposition device. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram of the cartridge and aerosol generation device of FIG. 9, with the cartridge received in the aerosol generation device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0107] 1a and 1b show two different systems for forming the aerosol-generating components of an aerosol-generating system according to the present disclosure.

[0108] FIG. 1a shows a two-electrode system for depositing an aerosol-forming substrate on a heating element by electrophoretic deposition to form an aerosol-generating component. The system comprises a heating element 1, which functions as a working electrode, and an auxiliary electrode 4. The heating element 1 is formed from platinum, and the auxiliary electrode 4 is formed from silver chloride. The heating element 1 and the auxiliary electrode 4 are partially immersed in a deposition liquid 6. The deposition liquid 6 is a solution containing water as a solvent, sodium alginate (AlgNa), calcium carbonate particles (CaCO3), an aerosol former in the form of propylene glycol, and nicotine. The deposition liquid contains the desired components of the aerosol-forming substrate, which in this embodiment are propylene glycol (aerosol former), water, and nicotine. Of course, in other embodiments, the deposition liquid may contain different components. For example, the deposition liquid may contain a polysaccharide different from sodium alginate. For example, the deposition liquid may contain an aerosol former different from propylene glycol. For example, the deposition liquid may contain an active ingredient different from nicotine. For example, the deposition liquid may include one or more of a flavorant and an acid.

[0109] Each of the heating element 1 and the auxiliary electrode 4 is connected to a power source (not shown) arranged to provide a voltage between the heating element 1 and the auxiliary electrode 4. A controller (not shown) controls the power supply to the heating element 1 and the auxiliary electrode 4. When a voltage is provided between the heating element 1 and the auxiliary electrode 4, an electric field is established in the deposition liquid 6. The electric field in the deposition liquid 6 causes the charged particles 7 in the deposition liquid 6 to move toward the heating element 1. The charged particles 7 attracted to the heating element 1 are deposited on the surface of the heating element 1, forming a layer of an aerosol-forming substrate on the surface of the heating element 1. For this deposition liquid 6, the sodium alginate in the deposition liquid 6 gels with the heating element 1 to form a hydrogel that is deposited on the heating element 1. The hydrogel captures propylene glycol, water, and nicotine such that the hydrogel deposited on the heating element contains the desired components of the aerosol-forming substrate.

[0110] FIG. 1b shows a three electrode system for forming an aerosol generating component, comprising a heating element 1 acting as a working electrode, an auxiliary electrode 4, and a reference electrode 5. The system of FIG. 1b is substantially similar to the system of FIG. 1a, and like features are indicated with like references. The system of FIG. 1b differs from the system of FIG. 1a only in that the system of FIG. 1b comprises a reference electrode 5. The reference electrode 5 is formed from platinum. The reference electrode 5 is partially immersed in the deposition liquid 6 and is connected to a power supply (not shown). The power supply is arranged to provide a voltage between the heating element 1, the auxiliary electrode 4, and the reference electrode 5.

[0111] A controller (not shown) controls the supply of power to the heating element 1, the auxiliary electrode 4, and the reference electrode 5. A stable and known voltage is supplied from a power supply to the auxiliary electrode 4. A voltage is supplied between the heating element 1 and the reference electrode 5, which is measured against the voltage supplied to the auxiliary electrode 4. The rate of electrical deposition of the aerosol-forming substrate occurring at the heating element 1 is determined by the controller from the voltage measured between the reference electrode 5 and the auxiliary electrode 4, and the voltage between the reference electrode 5 and the heating element 1 is adjusted in response to the determined rate of electrical deposition of the aerosol-forming substrate occurring at the heating element 1.

[0112] 2-4 show a system for forming an aerosol-generating component of an aerosol-generating system according to the present disclosure.

[0113] As shown in Figure 2, the system comprises a heating element 1 provided on an electrically insulating substrate 2. The heating element 1 and the electrically insulating substrate 2 form an aerosol-generating component 3 of the aerosol-generating system when the aerosol-generating substrate is deposited on the heating element 1. The aerosol-generating component 3 may be considered to be the cartridge of the aerosol-generating system.

[0114] As also shown in Figure 2, the system includes a deposition apparatus 10. The deposition apparatus 10 includes a housing 11 defining a cavity 12 for holding a deposition liquid 6. The deposition liquid 6 is the same deposition liquid as described above with reference to Figure 1a.

[0115] A connector 14 for coupling the deposition device 10 to the aerosol-generating component 3 is disposed within the cavity 12 and is submerged in the deposition liquid 6. The connector 14 includes electrical contact pads 15 configured to electrically couple with the heating element 1 when the aerosol-generating component 3 is coupled to the connector. An auxiliary electrode 4 and a reference electrode 5 are also disposed within the cavity 16 and are at least partially submerged in the deposition liquid 6.

[0116] The housing 11 further defines an opening 16 at an upper end of the deposition device 10 to allow the aerosol-generating component 3 to be inserted into the cavity 12. The closure 17 is slidably coupled to the housing 11 and is slidably movable between an open position and a closed position. In the open position, the opening 16 is open to allow the aerosol-generating component 3 to be inserted into and removed from the cavity 12. In the closed position, the closure 17 covers the opening 16 and prevents the aerosol-generating component 3 from being inserted into and removed from the cavity 12. A fluid-tight seal is provided between the closure 17 and the housing 11 in the closed position such that the deposition liquid 6 cannot leak out of the cavity 12 when the closure 17 is in the closed position. It will be appreciated that the closure 17 may be movable between the open position and the closed position in any suitable manner. In some embodiments, the closure 17 may be rotatably movable between the open position and the closed position. In some embodiments, the closure 17 may be removable from the housing 11 .

[0117] The deposition apparatus 10 further comprises a power supply 18 in the form of a rechargeable lithium ion battery. The power supply 18 is arranged to supply power to the electrical contact pads 15, the auxiliary electrode 4, and the reference electrode 5. The deposition apparatus 10 further comprises a controller 19 configured to control the supply of power to the electrical contact pads 15, the auxiliary electrode 4, and the reference electrode 5.

[0118] Figure 3 shows the aerosol-generating component 3 received within the cavity 12 of the deposition apparatus 10, with the closure 17 in a closed position to prevent removal of the aerosol-generating component 3 from the cavity 12. The aerosol-generating component 3 is coupled to the connector 14 of the deposition apparatus 10, and the heating element 1 is fully immersed in the deposition liquid 6 and electrically coupled to the electrical contact pad 15. In this configuration, the system is ready to deposit an aerosol-forming substrate onto the heating element 1 by electrophoretic deposition. The deposition apparatus 10 and the aerosol-generating component 3 form a three electrode system, as described above with reference to Figure lb.

[0119] The deposition apparatus 10 further comprises a switch (not shown). When the switch is activated by a user, the controller 19 provides power to the electrical contact pads 15, which in turn provide power to the heating element 1, the auxiliary electrode 4, and the reference electrode 5. The controller provides voltage between the heating element 1, the auxiliary electrode 4, and the reference electrode 5 to deposit the aerosol-forming substrate on the heating element by electrophoretic deposition 1, as described above with reference to FIG. 1b.

[0120] Figure 4a shows an aerosol generation device 20 configured to mate with the aerosol-generating component 3 of Figures 2 and 3 to form an aerosol generation system. The aerosol generation device 20 comprises a housing 21 defining a cavity 22 for receiving the aerosol-generating component 3. A mouthpiece 23 is removably coupleable to the housing 21 of the aerosol generation device 20 and covers the cavity 22 when coupled to the housing 21 to retain the aerosol-generating component 3 within the cavity 22. The aerosol generation device 20 further comprises a power source 24 in the form of a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, which is arranged to be electrically coupled to the heating element 1 of the aerosol-generating component 3 when the aerosol-generating component 3 is received within the cavity 22. The aerosol generation device 20 further comprises a controller 25 for controlling the supply of power to the heating element 1 of the aerosol-generating component.

[0121] 4b shows an aerosol generating system ready for use, having an aerosol-forming substrate deposited on heating element 1 by electrophoretic deposition of aerosol-generating components 3, the aerosol-generating components 3 received within cavity 22, and a mouthpiece 23 coupled to housing 21. The aerosol generating device 20 further comprises a puff sensor (not shown) which activates the aerosol generating device 20 upon detecting that a user has puffed on mouthpiece 23. In use, when a user activates the device by puffing on mouthpiece 23, controller 25 provides power from power supply 24 to heating element 1 to heat the aerosol-forming substrate and generate an aerosol which is delivered to the user through mouthpiece 23.

[0122] 5, 6, and 7 show various cleaners configured to remove the aerosol-forming substrate from the heating element of an aerosol-generating component.

[0123] FIG. 5 shows a cleaning device 30. The cleaning device 30 comprises a brush 31 at one end for brushing the aerosol-forming substrate from the heating element. The cleaning device 30 further comprises a scraper 32 at an end opposite the brush 31. The scraper is configured to scrape the aerosol-forming substrate from the heating element. The cleaning device 30 is configured to be used manually by a user. In other words, the user holds and manipulates the brush 31 and the scraper 32 with his or her own hands. In use, the user cleans the heating element of the aerosol-generating component before depositing new aerosol-forming substrate on the heating element by electrophoretic deposition.

[0124] Figure 6 shows a deposition apparatus 10 that includes a cleaner. The deposition apparatus 10 is substantially identical to the deposition apparatus 10 described above with reference to Figures 2 and 3, and like reference numbers are used to describe like features. The deposition apparatus 10 of Figure 6 differs from the deposition apparatus 10 of Figures 2 and 3 only in that the deposition apparatus 10 of Figure 6 includes a cleaner.

[0125] The cleaner of the deposition device 10 of FIG. 6 comprises a cleaning cavity 34 defined by the housing of the deposition device 10. The cleaning cavity 34 holds a cleaning liquid 35. In this embodiment, the cleaning liquid is an aqueous cleaning solution. Of course, any cleaning liquid suitable for removing an aerosol-forming substrate from a heating element may be used. An opening 36 is provided in the housing to allow the aerosol-generating component 3 to be inserted into and removed from the cleaning section 34. A closure 37 is also provided and is rotatable between an open position and a closed position. In the open position, the cover 37 rotates away from the opening 36 to allow the aerosol-generating component to be inserted into and removed from the cleaning cavity 34. In the closed position, the cover 37 rotates over the opening 36 to cover the opening 36 and prevent the aerosol-generating component from being inserted into and removed from the cleaning cavity 34. A liquid-tight seal is provided between the deposition device housing and the closure 37 in the closed position to prevent cleaning fluid from leaking out of the cleaning section 34 .

[0126] Figure 7 also shows the deposition apparatus 10 including a cleaner. The deposition apparatus 10 is substantially identical to the deposition apparatus 10 described above with reference to Figures 2 and 3, and like reference numbers are used to describe like features. The deposition apparatus 10 of Figure 7 differs from the deposition apparatus 10 of Figures 2 and 3 only in that the deposition apparatus 10 of Figure 7 includes a cleaner.

[0127] The cleaner of the deposition apparatus 10 of FIG. 7 comprises a cleaning cavity 34 defined by the housing of the deposition apparatus 10. The cleaning cavity 34 is substantially similar to the cavity 12 and is provided with a similar opening and closing. The cleaning cavity 34 holds a cleaning liquid 35. In this embodiment, the cleaning liquid is a deposition liquid similar to the deposition liquid 6 in the cavity 12. A connector 37 having electrical contact pads, an auxiliary electrode 38, and a reference electrode 39 is provided in the cleaning cavity 34 immersed in the cleaning liquid 35. The connector 37, the auxiliary electrode 38, and the reference electrode 39 are identical to the connector 14, the auxiliary electrode 4, and the reference electrode 5 in the cavity 12 and are similarly connected to the power supply 18 and the controller 19. The controller is configured to control the application of voltage between the heating element of the aerosol-generating component connected to the connector 37, the auxiliary electrode 38, and the reference electrode 39 to remove the aerosol-forming substrate from the heating element. The voltage supplied between the heating element of the aerosol-generating component connected to connector 37, auxiliary electrode 38, and reference electrode 39 is generally opposite to the voltage supplied between the heating element of the aerosol-generating component connected to connector 14, auxiliary electrode 4, and reference electrode 5, causing the aerosol-forming substrate to be deposited on the heating element by electrophoretic deposition. Such voltage establishes an electric field in the deposition liquid which causes the aerosol-forming substrate above the heating element to move away from the heating element.

[0128] 8a and 8b show a system for forming an aerosol-generating component of an aerosol-generating system according to the present disclosure. The system includes a deposition device 10 and an aerosol-generating device 20.

[0129] As shown in Figure 8b, the deposition device 10 of this embodiment includes a container for holding a deposition liquid 6. The deposition liquid 6 is the same deposition liquid as described above with reference to Figure 1a. The container of the deposition device 10 is sized to receive a portion of the aerosol generating device 20, as shown in Figure 8b.

[0130] As shown in Figure 8a, the aerosol generating device 20 comprises a housing 21 defining a cavity 22 containing the heating element 1, and an auxiliary electrode 4. The heating element 1 comprises a planar sheet of platinum and the auxiliary electrode 4 comprises a layer of silver chloride applied to the inner surface of the housing 21 defining the cavity 22. The auxiliary electrode 4 surrounds the heating element 1, and the gap between the heating element 1 and the auxiliary electrode 4 contains the deposition liquid 6 when the aerosol generating device 20 is received in the deposition apparatus 10. The heating element 1 and the auxiliary electrode 4 form a two electrode system, as described above with reference to Figure 1a.

[0131] The aerosol generation device 20 further comprises a mouthpiece 23 that is removably coupleable to the housing 21 of the aerosol generation device 20 and covers the cavity 22 when coupled to the housing 21. The mouthpiece 23 is removable such that the mouthpiece does not come into contact with the deposition liquid 6 when the aerosol generation device 20 is received within the deposition device 10.

[0132] The aerosol generating device 20 further comprises a power source 24 in the form of a rechargeable lithium ion battery electrically coupled to the heating element 1 and the auxiliary electrode 4. The aerosol generating device 20 further comprises a controller 25 for controlling the supply of power to the heating element 1 and the auxiliary electrode 4. The controller 25 is configured to control the supply of power to the heating element 1 to heat an aerosol-forming substrate deposited on a surface of the heating element 1 by electrophoretic deposition to form an aerosol. The controller 25 is also configured to supply a voltage between the heating element 1 and the auxiliary electrode 4 to deposit the aerosol-forming substrate on the heating element 1 by electrophoretic deposition when the aerosol generating device 20 is received in the deposition apparatus 10 and at least a portion of the heating element and a portion of the auxiliary electrode are immersed in the deposition liquid 6.

[0133] The aerosol generating device 20 further comprises a puff sensor (not shown) which activates the device upon detecting that a user has puffed on the mouthpiece 23. In use, when the mouthpiece 23 is coupled to the housing 21, and when a user activates the device by puffing on the mouthpiece 23, the controller 25 provides power from the power supply 24 to the heating element 1 to heat the aerosol-forming substrate and generate an aerosol, which is delivered to the user through the mouthpiece 23.

[0134] To prepare the aerosol generating device 20 for use, the mouthpiece 23 is removed from the housing 21 and the proximal end of the aerosol generating device 20 is inserted into the container of the deposition device 10 and immersed in the deposition liquid 6. The proximal end of the aerosol generating device 20 comprises a cavity 22, a heating element 1, and an auxiliary electrode 4. When the proximal end of the aerosol generating device 20 is immersed in the deposition liquid 6, the heating element 1 and the auxiliary electrode 4 are also immersed in the deposition liquid 6. The deposition device 10 and the aerosol generating device 20 form a two-electrode system, as described above with reference to FIG. 1a. The aerosol generating device 20 further comprises a switch (not shown) that enables the controller 25 to supply a voltage between the heating element 1 and the auxiliary electrode 4 to deposit the aerosol-forming substrate on the heating element 1 by electrophoretic deposition. When the proximal end of the aerosol generating device 20 is immersed in the deposition liquid 6, the user activates the switch to deposit the aerosol-forming substrate on the heating element 1 by electrophoretic deposition. When the aerosol-forming substrate is deposited onto the heating element 1 by electrophoretic deposition, the heating element 1 and the aerosol-forming substrate form an aerosol-generating component, and the aerosol generating device 20 forms a ready-to-use aerosol generating system.

[0135] 9, 10 and 11 show a system for forming an aerosol-generating component of an aerosol-generating system according to the present disclosure.

[0136] As shown in FIG. 9, the system comprises a plurality of heating elements 1 provided on an electrically insulating substrate 2. In this embodiment, the plurality of heating elements 1 comprises six heating elements spaced apart from one another at regular intervals across the electrically insulating substrate 2. Each heating element 1 comprises a rectangular strip of platinum. An auxiliary electrode 4 is disposed at one end of the electrically insulating substrate 2. The auxiliary electrode 4 comprises a rectangular sheet of silver chloride. A reference electrode 5 is disposed adjacent to the auxiliary electrode 4 on the electrically insulating substrate 2. The reference electrode 5 comprises a rectangular strip of platinum. The plurality of heating elements 1, the electrically insulating substrate 2, the auxiliary electrode 4, and the reference electrode 5 are housed within a mouthpiece 23. The mouthpiece is configured to allow a user to draw on the mouthpiece to receive an aerosol. The plurality of heating elements 1, the electrically insulating substrate 2, the auxiliary electrode 4, the reference electrode 5, and the mouthpiece 23 form the aerosol-generating component 3 of the aerosol-generating system when the aerosol-generating substrate is deposited on the plurality of heating elements 1. The aerosol-generating component 3 may be considered to be a cartridge that is coupled to an aerosol generating device to form an aerosol generating system, as shown in FIG.

[0137] The system for forming the aerosol-generating component further includes a deposition apparatus 10, as shown in Figure 9. The deposition apparatus 10 is substantially similar to the deposition apparatus 10 described above with reference to Figure 2, with like features being indicated with like reference numbers.

[0138] The deposition device 10 of Figure 9 comprises a housing 11 defining a cavity 12 for holding a deposition liquid 6. The deposition liquid 6 is the same deposition liquid as described above with reference to Figure 1a.

[0139] A connector 14 for coupling the deposition device 10 to the cartridge 3 is disposed within the cavity 12 and submerged in the deposition liquid 6. The connector 14 includes a plurality of electrical contact pads configured to electrically couple with the plurality of heating elements 1, auxiliary electrodes 4, and reference electrodes 5 of the cartridge 3 when the cartridge is coupled to the connector 14.

[0140] The housing 11 further defines an opening 16 at the top end of the deposition device 10 to allow the cartridge 3 to be inserted into the cavity 12. A closure 17 is rotatably coupled to the housing 11 and is rotatably movable between an open position and a closed position. In the open position, the opening 16 is open to allow the insertion and removal of the cartridge 3 into and from the cavity 12. In the closed position, the closure 17 covers the opening 16 and prevents the insertion and removal of the cartridge 3 into and from the cavity 12. A fluid-tight seal is provided between the closure 17 and the housing 11 in the closed position such that the deposition liquid 6 cannot leak out of the cavity 12 when the closure 17 is in the closed position.

[0141] The deposition apparatus 10 further comprises a power supply 18 in the form of a rechargeable lithium ion battery. The power supply 18 is arranged to provide power to the electrical contact pads 15 of the connector 14. The deposition apparatus 10 further comprises a controller 19 configured to control the supply of power to the electrical contact pads 15.

[0142] FIG. 10 shows the cartridge 3 received within the cavity 12 of the deposition apparatus 10, with the closure 17 in a closed position to prevent removal of the cartridge 3 from the cavity 12. The cartridge 3 is coupled to the connector 14 of the deposition apparatus 10, with the plurality of heating elements 1, the auxiliary electrode 4, and the reference electrode 5 fully immersed in the deposition liquid 6 and each electrically coupled to one of the electrical contact pads of the connector 14. In this configuration, the system is ready to deposit an aerosol-forming substrate onto each of the plurality of heating elements 1 by electrophoretic deposition. The deposition apparatus 10 and the cartridge 3 form a three electrode system, as described above with reference to FIG. 1b.

[0143] The deposition apparatus 10 further comprises a switch (not shown). When the switch is activated by a user, the controller 19 provides power to the electrical contact pads, which in turn provide power to each of the plurality of heating elements 1, the auxiliary electrode 4, and the reference electrode 5. The controller provides voltages between the auxiliary electrode 4 and the plurality of heating elements 1, and between the reference electrode 5 and the plurality of heating elements 1, to deposit an aerosol-forming substrate on each of the plurality of heating elements 1 by electrophoretic deposition, as described above with reference to FIG. 1b.

[0144] Figure 11 shows an aerosol generation device 20 configured to mate with the cartridge 3 of Figures 9 and 10 to form an aerosol generation system. The aerosol generation device 20 comprises a housing 21 configured to mate with the cartridge 3. The aerosol generation device 20 further comprises a power source 24 in the form of a rechargeable lithium ion battery arranged to electrically couple to each of the plurality of heating elements 1 of the cartridge when the cartridge 3 is coupled to the aerosol generation device 20. The aerosol generation device 20 further comprises a controller 25 configured to selectively control the supply of power from the power source 24 to each of the plurality of heating elements 1 of the cartridge.

[0145] 11 shows an aerosol generation system ready for use, with an aerosol-forming substrate deposited on each of the plurality of heating elements 1 of the cartridge 3 by electrophoretic deposition, and the cartridge 3 coupled to an aerosol generation device 20. The aerosol generation device 20 further comprises a puff sensor (not shown) which activates the aerosol generation device 20 upon detecting that a user has puffed on the mouthpiece 23. In use, when a user activates the device by puffing on the mouthpiece 23, the controller 25 selectively supplies power from the power source 24 to each of the plurality of heating elements 1 to heat the aerosol-forming substrate deposited on the heating elements by electrophoretic deposition and generate an aerosol, which is delivered to the user through the mouthpiece 23.

[0146] For purposes of this specification and the appended claims, unless otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing amounts, quantities, percentages, and the like are to be understood in all instances as being modified by the term "about." Also, all ranges include the maximum and minimum points disclosed, and include any intermediate ranges therein, which may or may not be specifically recited herein. Thus, in this context, the number A is to be understood as A±5%.

Claims

1. A method of forming an aerosol generating component of an aerosol generating system, comprising: immersing at least a portion of a heating element in a deposition liquid; immersing at least a portion of an auxiliary electrode in the deposition liquid; supplying a voltage between the heating element and the auxiliary electrode to deposit an aerosol-forming substrate on the heating element by electrophoretic deposition.

2. The deposition liquid comprises a polysaccharide and optionally water, nicotine, a flavoring agent, an aerosol former, and one or more of acids, according to the method of claim 1.

3. The deposition liquid comprises sodium alginate and optionally calcium carbonate, and one or more of iron (II), according to the method of claim 1 or 2.

4. Further comprising immersing a reference electrode in the deposition liquid, and supplying a voltage comprises supplying a voltage between the heating element, the auxiliary electrode, and the reference electrode to deposit an aerosol-forming substrate on the heating element by electrophoretic deposition, according to the method of claim 1 or 2.

5. Further comprising cleaning the heating element, and optionally, cleaning the heating element comprises brushing the heating element with a brush, scraping the heating element with a scraper, immersing at least a portion of the heating element in a cleaning liquid, electrically cleaning the heating element, which comprises immersing a cleaning auxiliary electrode in the cleaning liquid, immersing at least a portion of the heating element in the cleaning liquid, and supplying a voltage between the heating element and the cleaning auxiliary electrode to electrically clean the heating element by electrically cleaning the aerosol-forming substrate from the heating element, according to the method of claim 1 or 2, including at least one of

6. A system for forming an aerosol generating component of an aerosol generating system, the system comprising: a heating element, an auxiliary electrode, and a deposition liquid, the system being configured to supply a voltage between the heating element and the auxiliary electrode to deposit an aerosol-forming substrate on the heating element by electrophoretic deposition when at least a portion of the heating element and at least a portion of the auxiliary electrode are immersed in the deposition liquid.

7. The deposition liquid comprises a polysaccharide and optionally Water, nicotine, a flavoring agent, an aerosol former, and one or more of the acids, the system according to claim 6.

8. The deposition liquid contains sodium alginate and optionally calcium carbonate and iron (II), the system according to claim 6 or 7.

9. Further comprising a reference electrode, when at least a part of the heating element, at least a part of the auxiliary electrode, and at least a part of the reference electrode are immersed in the deposition liquid and an aerosol-forming substrate is deposited on the heating element by electrophoretic deposition, the system is configured to supply a voltage between the heating element, the auxiliary electrode, and the reference electrode, the system according to claim 6 or 7.

10. The system further comprises a cleaner configured to remove the aerosol-forming substrate from the heating element, and optionally, the cleaner is a brush, a scraper, a cleaning liquid, an electrical cleaning arrangement, a cleaning liquid, and an electrical cleaning arrangement comprising a cleaning auxiliary electrode, and comprises at least one of them, when at least a part of the heating element and at least a part of the cleaning auxiliary electrode are immersed in the cleaning liquid and the aerosol-forming substrate is removed from the heating element, the system is configured to supply a voltage between the heating element and the cleaning auxiliary electrode, the system according to claim 6 or 7.

11. The system further comprises an aerosol generating device, the heating element is removably connectable to the aerosol generating device, when the heating element is connected to the aerosol generating device and heats the aerosol-forming substrate deposited on the heating element to generate an aerosol, the aerosol generating device comprises a power source configured to supply power to the heating element, the system according to claim 6.

12. The system further comprises an aerosol generating device, the heating element is an integral part of the aerosol generating device, the aerosol generating device is configured to supply power to the heating element to heat the aerosol-forming substrate deposited on the heating element to generate an aerosol, the system according to claim 6.

13. The system according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the aerosol generator further comprises the auxiliary electrode, and the power supply of the aerosol generator is configured to supply the voltage between the heating element and the auxiliary electrode.

14. The system further comprises a deposition device, the deposition device is configured to be electrically coupled to the heating element, The deposition device is a housing defining a cavity for holding the deposition liquid, the auxiliary electrode, and a power supply disposed to supply the voltage between the heating element and the auxiliary electrode when the heating element is electrically coupled to the deposition device. The system according to claim 6 or 7.

15. A deposition device configured to be electrically coupled to a heating element of an aerosol forming system, the deposition device comprising a housing defining a cavity for holding a deposition liquid, an auxiliary electrode disposed within the cavity and at least partially immersed in the deposition liquid, and a power supply disposed to supply a voltage between the heating element and the auxiliary electrode to deposit an aerosol-forming substrate on the heating element when the heating element is electrically coupled to the deposition device and at least a portion of the heating element is immersed in the deposition liquid.

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