Cartridge with airflow directing element

Abstract

The present invention relates to a cartridge for use in an aerosol generating device, comprising: a liquid reservoir (92) for holding a liquid aerosol-forming substrate; an inner airflow path (14) extending between a proximal end and a distal end of the cartridge; and a tubular inner unit (10) surrounding at least a portion of the inner airflow path, the inner unit comprising a tubular heater component (40) comprising a susceptor element (42) disposed within the inner airflow path; and a distal airflow management component (60) comprising an airflow directing element disposed within the inner airflow path, the airflow directing element (72) configured to direct airflow onto a surface of the susceptor element.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a cartridge for use in an aerosol generating device. The present disclosure further relates to an aerosol generating system comprising the cartridge and an aerosol generating device. [Background technology]

[0002] It is known to provide an aerosol-generating device for producing an inhalable vapor. Such a device can heat an aerosol-forming substrate contained in a cartridge without burning the aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-generating device can include a heating device. The heating device can be an induction heating device and can include an induction coil and a susceptor. The susceptor can be part of the device or part of the cartridge.

[0003] When the aerosol-forming substrate is heated to a target temperature, it vaporizes to form an aerosol. The aerosol-forming substrate may be present in solid or liquid form. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may be contained within a liquid reservoir and delivered to the heating element via a capillary element. The liquid reservoir may form part of a replaceable or refillable cartridge. The cartridge may be provided with a manually removable sealing means for the liquid reservoir, such as a removable sealing cap or a disposable sealing foil, to avoid leakage of the aerosol-forming substrate before use. Aerosolization may only occur partially. This may lead to re-condensation of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may undergo insufficient evaporation. This may result in a poor user experience during consumption of the aerosol.

[0004] It may be desirable to provide a cartridge for an aerosol generating device that can improve evaporation of a liquid aerosol-forming substrate. It would be desirable to provide a cartridge for an aerosol generating device that can improve aerosol formation. It would be desirable to provide a cartridge for an aerosol generating device that can improve the user experience. It would be desirable to provide a cartridge for an aerosol generating device that can be handled more comfortably by the user. Summary of the Invention

[0005] According to an embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a cartridge for use in an aerosol generating device. The cartridge may include a liquid reservoir for holding a liquid aerosol-forming substrate. The cartridge may include an inner airflow path extending between a proximal end and a distal end of the cartridge. The cartridge may include a tubular inner unit surrounding at least a portion of the inner airflow path. A tubular heater component may be present within the inner unit. The tubular heater component may include a susceptor element disposed within the inner airflow path. The inner unit may further include a distal airflow management component including an airflow directing element disposed within the inner airflow path. The airflow directing element may be configured to direct airflow across a surface of the susceptor element.

[0006] According to another embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a cartridge for use in an aerosol generating device. The cartridge includes a liquid reservoir for holding a liquid aerosol-forming substrate. An internal airflow path exists within the cartridge, the internal airflow path extending between a proximal end and a distal end of the cartridge. The cartridge further includes a tubular internal unit surrounding at least a portion of the internal airflow path. The tubular internal unit includes a tubular heater component including a susceptor element disposed within the internal airflow path. The internal unit further includes a distal airflow management component. The airflow management component includes an airflow directing element disposed within the internal airflow path. The airflow directing element is configured to direct airflow across a surface of the susceptor element.

[0007] The formation of an aerosol from a liquid aerosol-forming substrate can be improved due to the presence of an airflow directing element. The airflow directing element can improve the supply of air to the surface of the susceptor element. The airflow directing element can also reduce or avoid the generation of droplets of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate in the inner airflow path that can leak out of the cartridge.

[0008] The invention will now be further described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] 1a) to 1c) show a tubular inner unit of a cartridge for use in an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] Figures 2a and 2b show a cartridge for use in an aerosol generating device. [Figure 3] Figures 3a and 3b show a cartridge for use in an aerosol generating device. [Figure 4] Figures 4a and 4b show an aerosol generation system. [Figure 5] Figures 5a and 5b show heater components of a cartridge for use in an aerosol generating device. [Figure 6] Figures 6a and 6b show the heater and airflow management components of a cartridge for use in an aerosol generating device. [Figure 7] 7a and 7b show a side perspective view and a top view, respectively, of an airflow management component having an airflow directing element. [Figure 8] Figures 8a-c show different airflow management components with various air inlets and airflow directing elements. [Figure 9] 9a and 9b show different airflow management components having a distal end wall that includes air inlets that direct airflow onto the airflow directing elements of the airflow management component. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] In the following, elements having the same functionality are designated with the same reference numerals throughout all figures.

[0011] As used herein, the terms "tubular," "tubular unit," "tubular component," "tubular element," and "tubular shape" refer to a three-dimensional object and geometric shape that includes a bottom basal plane, a top basal plane, and a sidewall that encloses a hollow interior, the sidewall being disposed between the bottom and top basal planes. The sidewall extends along a longitudinal axis of the tubular element between the bottom and top basal planes. The longitudinal axis can be perpendicular to one or both of the bottom and top basal planes.

[0012] The bottom base of the tubular element lies in a bottom base plane. The top base of the tubular element lies in an top base plane. The cross-sectional shape of one or both of the bottom base and top base may be circular. The cross-sectional shape of one or both of the bottom base and top base may be non-circular, for example, oval, stadium-shaped, or rectangular. One or both of the bottom base and top base may be open.

[0013] The tubular element may have the shape of a right circular hollow cylinder. The tubular element may have the shape of a non-circular hollow cylinder, for example an elliptical hollow cylinder or a stadium-shaped hollow cylinder. The tubular element may have the shape of a hollow cube.

[0014] The longitudinal axis of the tubular element may be disposed parallel to the longitudinal axis of the cartridge. The central longitudinal axis of the tubular element may coincide with the central longitudinal axis of the cartridge.

[0015] The airflow management component of the cartridge may comprise a tubular sidewall surrounding the inner airflow path, and the airflow directing element may comprise at least one divider element extending from the tubular sidewall into the inner airflow path.

[0016] The divider elements extending from the tubular sidewall may improve the formation of an airflow directed toward the surface of the susceptor element. The divider elements extending from the tubular sidewall may also provide an easy method of forming the divider elements within the airflow management component.

[0017] The airflow directing element may comprise a first divider element extending from the tubular sidewall into the inner airflow path. The airflow directing element may also comprise an opposing second divider element extending from the tubular sidewall into the inner airflow path.

[0018] The first and second partition wall elements may increase the airflow toward the susceptor element.

[0019] The divider element may extend between opposing wall portions of the tubular side wall.

[0020] This may present an easy way to generate two separate airflows separated by a partition wall, which may be directed over different surfaces of the susceptor element.

[0021] The susceptor element may comprise at least one first planar surface. The airflow directing element may be configured to direct the airflow across the at least one first planar surface.

[0022] This can enhance the formation of the aerosol from the liquid aerosol-forming substrate and the air delivered from the airflow directing element, including the first planar surface of the susceptor element.

[0023] Preferably, the susceptor element may further comprise a second planar surface, and the airflow directing element may be further configured to direct the airflow across the second planar surface.

[0024] This may enhance the formation of aerosol originating from the second plane.

[0025] Providing one or both of the first and second planar surfaces of the susceptor element can increase the surface area of the susceptor element available for evaporating the liquid aerosol-forming substrate, and one or both of the first and second planar surfaces of the susceptor element can also increase the overall rate of formation of the aerosol.

[0026] At least one of the partition wall elements may comprise a first planar surface. The first planar surface of the susceptor element may be aligned with the first planar surface of the partition wall element.

[0027] This may enhance the overall airflow toward the first planar surface of the susceptor element.

[0028] At least one of the partition wall elements may further comprise a second planar surface. The second planar surface of the partition wall element may be disposed opposite the first planar surface of the partition wall element. The second planar surface of the susceptor element may be aligned with the second planar surface of the partition wall element.

[0029] Having two opposing first and second planar surfaces of the susceptor element can increase the overall formation of aerosol from the susceptor element. A divider element having opposing first and second planar surfaces can increase the overall airflow from the divider element toward the opposing first and second planar surfaces of the susceptor element.

[0030] The first plane of the partition wall element and the first plane of the susceptor element may lie in a common plane. The partition wall element and the susceptor element may extend along the common plane.

[0031] This may increase the overall airflow from the first planar surface of the partition wall element towards the first planar surface of the susceptor element.

[0032] The susceptor element may include one of a mesh, a foam, or a grid.

[0033] This may increase the overall surface of the susceptor element available for vaporizing the liquid aerosol-forming substrate, which may increase the overall surface of the susceptor element available for aerosol formation.

[0034] The susceptor element may comprise one or more of a metal, an alloy, a susceptible core element comprising susceptor particles dispersed within the core element, and a conductive ceramic.

[0035] These materials are particularly well suited to being inductively heated.

[0036] The sensitive wick element with the susceptor particles dispersed therein may comprise one or more of a cotton-based material, a porous ceramic-based material, or a porous graphite-based material. These materials may transport the liquid aerosol-forming substrate toward the susceptor particles via capillary action. The susceptor particles dispersed within the wick material may include particles comprising one or more of a metal, an alloy, and a conductive ceramic.

[0037] The cartridge may further include a tubular sleeve element surrounding at least a portion of the internal unit. The liquid supply channel may be disposed between the internal unit and the sleeve element. The heater component may include a wick element disposed to transfer the liquid aerosol-forming substrate from the liquid supply channel to the susceptor element.

[0038] The heater element may comprise a fluid-permeable wall portion disposed to allow movement of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate from the liquid feed channel to the inner airflow path, the fluid-permeable wall portion being formed by two slits in opposing side walls of the tubular heater element.

[0039] The cartridge may include a wick element arranged to transfer the liquid aerosol-forming substrate from the liquid feed channel to the susceptor element.

[0040] The heater component may include a wick element that may extend from the inner airflow path through two slits in opposing side walls of the tubular heater component to the liquid supply channel.

[0041] The wick element may extend transversely through the inner airflow path and may protrude from the inner airflow path through a slit and into the liquid feed channel.

[0042] This may allow the liquid aerosol-forming substrate to easily move from the liquid supply channel to the susceptor element via capillary action.

[0043] The core element may include one or more of a cotton-based material, a porous ceramic-based material, and a porous graphite-based material.

[0044] The core element may be in direct contact with the susceptor element, or preferably, may be sandwiched between two layers of the susceptor element.

[0045] This may allow sufficient contact between the liquid aerosol-forming substrate and the susceptor element, which may facilitate the easy formation of an aerosol from the liquid aerosol-forming substrate by evaporating the substrate through the susceptor element.

[0046] The core element may be in the form of a sheet and the susceptor element may be U-shaped. The U-shaped susceptor element may be mounted on the core element within the airflow path.

[0047] This can provide a spatial arrangement between the wick element and the susceptor element with a large interface between both elements, which can enhance aerosol formation.

[0048] The internal unit may further comprise a tubular sealing component provided proximal to the tubular heater component. The sealing component may comprise a tubular element surrounding a portion of the airflow path. The sealing component may comprise a proximal sealing element disposed on an outer surface of the tubular element. The internal unit may be axially movable relative to the sleeve element from a blocking position in which the proximal sealing element is disposed to block the fluid connection between the liquid storage portion and the liquid supply channel. The internal unit may be axially movable relative to the sleeve element to an open position in which the proximal sealing element is moved to open the fluid connection between the liquid storage portion and the liquid supply channel.

[0049] Thus, when the internal unit moves relative to the sleeve element, the internal unit may be movable between a blocking position and an open position for blocking and enabling fluid connection between the liquid storage portion and the liquid supply channel.

[0050] A distal end of the heater component may be connected to a proximal end of the airflow management component.A proximal end of the heater component may be connected to a distal end of the sealing component.

[0051] The sealing components, heater components, and airflow management components may be connected by plug connections.

[0052] The airflow management component may include at least one air inlet. The at least one air inlet may be configured to provide air toward the airflow directing element. Preferably, the airflow management component may include at least two air inlets.

[0053] The at least two air inlets can provide airflow toward different surfaces of the airflow directing element, which can enhance airflow toward the susceptor element, which can enhance aerosol formation from the liquid aerosol-forming substrate.

[0054] The airflow management component may comprise a tubular sidewall surrounding the inner airflow path. At least one air inlet may be located within the tubular sidewall. Preferably, at least two air inlets are located within the tubular sidewall.

[0055] The at least two air inlets may be located in opposing regions of the tubular sidewall.

[0056] This can provide an easy way to deliver airflow to two different surfaces of the airflow directing element.

[0057] At least two air inlets may be located within the tubular sidewall, with the at least two air inlets located on opposite sides of the air flow directing element. This may provide an easy way to deliver airflow to two opposite sides of the air flow directing element. The air flow directing element preferably comprises at least one divider element having two opposite sides of the divider.

[0058] The airflow management component may include a distal end wall. The distal end wall may be located within the inner airflow path. At least one air inlet may be located within the distal end wall.

[0059] This may provide one possibility for delivering air to the internal airflow path of the cartridge through at least one air inlet.

[0060] The airflow management component and the tubular heater component may be configured as separate structural components that may be connected along the longitudinal axis of the inner unit. Preferably, the airflow management component may be connected to the tubular heater component via a plug connection.

[0061] The tubular sealing component may be configured as a separate structural component. The tubular sealing component may be connected to the tubular heater component along the longitudinal axis of the inner unit.

[0062] The proximal end portion of the cartridge may be configured as a mouthpiece. This may allow for a compact design of the cartridge without the need to attach a separate mouthpiece to the cartridge. In particular, the proximal end portion of the cartridge may be formed as a mouthpiece.

[0063] Preferably, the liquid reservoir is at least partially provided within the mouthpiece. In particular, part of the liquid reservoir may be formed as the mouthpiece. This may allow for an advantageous design of the cartridge, which includes the mouthpiece and at least part of the liquid reservoir is contained within the mouthpiece.

[0064] The liquid reservoir portion of the cartridge may surround a portion of the inner airflow path, which may allow for a compact design of the cartridge, with the portion of the tubular sidewall that surrounds the inner airflow path also forming part of the liquid reservoir portion.

[0065] The distal airflow management component may include a retaining element for receiving the liquid aerosol-forming substrate, which may be configured to prevent leakage of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate from one or both of the susceptor element and the inner airflow path of the cartridge.

[0066] The retaining element may preferably comprise a closed distal end wall of the distal airflow management component.The retaining element may be formed as a trough.

[0067] The distal end of the cartridge may be configured to engage with an aerosol generating device. The distal end of the cartridge may be configured to be inserted into a cavity of the aerosol generating device. The distal end of the cartridge may comprise a connecting means configured to be releasably connectable to the aerosol generating device. The connecting means may be mechanical. The connecting means may comprise one or more springs. The one or more springs may be made of a plastic material, a metal material, or a combination thereof. The connecting means may comprise a magnetic connecting means.

[0068] The proximal end of the cartridge may be a mouth end. The proximal end of the cartridge may comprise a mouthpiece. The proximal end of the cartridge may comprise an air outlet.

[0069] The present invention also provides an aerosol generation system. The aerosol generation system may include a cartridge as described herein. The aerosol generation system may also include an aerosol generator including a cavity arranged to receive at least a distal portion of the cartridge. The cavity may be at least partially surrounded by an inductor coil.

[0070] The present invention also provides an aerosol generation system comprising a cartridge as described herein, the aerosol generation system further comprising an aerosol generator including a cavity arranged to receive at least a distal portion of the cartridge, the cavity being at least partially surrounded by an inductor coil.

[0071] The inductor coil can be configured to heat a susceptor element contained in the cartridge, which can enable generation of an aerosol formed from the liquid aerosol-forming substrate and air.

[0072] The cavity of the aerosol generating device may be a heated chamber.

[0073] The aerosol generating device may include a pin element that may protrude from a distal end face of the cavity and that may be arranged to press against a distal airflow management component of the cartridge when the cartridge is inserted into the cavity.

[0074] This may allow the internal unit of the cartridge to move axially relative to the sleeve element to open the liquid supply channel for fluid connection between the liquid storage portion and the liquid supply channel. When the cartridge is pulled up, the airflow management component of the cartridge may protrude from the sleeve element of the cartridge. In this position, the internal unit may be in a blocking position relative to the sleeve element. This may allow the fluid connection between the liquid storage portion and the liquid supply channel to be blocked when the cartridge is not inserted into the cavity of the aerosol generation device.

[0075] The term "aerosol-forming substrate" as used herein relates to a substrate capable of releasing a volatile compound that can form an aerosol or vapor. Such a volatile compound can be released by heating the aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-forming substrate may be in liquid form. The terms "aerosol" and "vapor" are used interchangeably.

[0076] The aerosol-forming substrate may be part of the cartridge. The aerosol-forming substrate may be part of the liquid held in a liquid reservoir of the cartridge. The liquid reservoir may contain the liquid aerosol-forming substrate.

[0077] Preferably, a liquid nicotine or flavor / flavorant-containing aerosol-forming substrate may be used within the liquid reservoir portion of the cartridge.

[0078] The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise nicotine.

[0079] The aerosol-forming substrate may include at least one aerosol former. The aerosol former is any suitable known compound or mixture of compounds that facilitates the formation of a dense, stable aerosol during use and is substantially resistant to thermal decomposition at the operating temperature of the device. 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, and glycerin), esters of polyhydric alcohols (such as glycerol monoacetate, diacetate, or triacetate), and aliphatic esters of monocarboxylic, dicarboxylic, or polycarboxylic acids (such as dimethyl dodecanedioate and dimethyl tetradecanedioate). Preferred aerosol formers are polyhydric alcohols or mixtures thereof (such as triethylene glycol and 1,3-butanediol). Preferably, the aerosol former is glycerin.

[0080] As used herein, the term "cartridge" refers to an article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate capable of emitting a volatile compound capable of forming an aerosol. For example, a cartridge can be an article that generates an aerosol that is directly inhalable by a user who inhales or puffs on a mouthpiece at the proximal or user end of the device or on the mouthpiece of the cartridge itself. A cartridge may be disposable. A cartridge may be reusable. A cartridge may be refillable. A cartridge may be insertable into a cavity of an aerosol-generating device.

[0081] As used herein, the term "liquid reservoir" refers to a reservoir containing an aerosol-forming substrate capable of emitting a volatile compound capable of forming an aerosol. The liquid reservoir may be configured as a container or reservoir for storing the liquid aerosol-forming substrate.

[0082] The liquid reservoir may be configured as a replaceable tank or container. The liquid reservoir may be of any suitable shape and size. For example, the liquid reservoir may be substantially cylindrical. The cross section of the liquid reservoir may be, for example, substantially circular, oval, square, or rectangular. The liquid reservoir may form part of a cartridge.

[0083] As used herein, the term "aerosol generating device" refers to a device that interacts with a cartridge to generate an aerosol.

[0084] As used herein, the term "aerosol generation system" refers to the combination of an aerosol generation device and a cartridge assembly, in which the aerosol generation device and cartridge work together to generate a respirable aerosol.

[0085] The aerosol generating device is preferably portable. The aerosol generating device may have a size comparable to a conventional cigar or cigarette. The device may be an electrically operated smoking device. The device may be a handheld aerosol generating device. The aerosol generating device may have a total length of 30 mm to 150 mm. The aerosol generating device may have an outer diameter of 5 mm to 30 mm.

[0086] The aerosol generating device may include a housing. The housing may be elongated. The housing may comprise any suitable material or combination of materials. Examples of suitable materials include metals, alloys, plastics, or composites containing one or more of these materials, or thermoplastics suitable for food or pharmaceutical applications, such as polypropylene, polyetheretherketone (PEEK), and polyethylene. Preferably, the material is lightweight and not brittle.

[0087] The housing may include at least one air inlet. The housing may include multiple air inlets.

[0088] The aerosol generating device may include a heating element, which may include at least one inductor coil for inductively heating one or more susceptors.

[0089] Operation of the heating element may be triggered by a puff detection system. Alternatively, the heating element may be triggered by pressing an on / off button and maintained for the duration of the user's puff. The puff detection system may be provided as a sensor, which may be configured as an airflow sensor for measuring airflow velocity. Airflow velocity is a parameter that characterizes the amount of air inhaled by a user through the airflow path of the aerosol generating device per time. The start of a puff may be detected by the airflow sensor when the airflow exceeds a predetermined threshold. The start may also be detected after the user activates a button. The sensor may also be configured as a pressure sensor.

[0090] The aerosol generating device may include a user interface for operating the aerosol generating device, for example, a button for initiating heating of the aerosol generating device, or a display for indicating the status of the aerosol generating device or the aerosol-forming substrate.

[0091] The aerosol generating device may include additional components, such as, for example, an electrically operated or charging unit for recharging an on-board power source within an electric aerosol generating device.

[0092] As used herein, the term "proximal" refers to the user or mouth end of a cartridge, aerosol generation device or system, or part or portion thereof, and the term "distal" refers to the end opposite the proximal end. The term "proximal," when referring to a cavity, refers to the area nearest the open end of the cavity, and the term "distal" refers to the area nearest the closed end.

[0093] As used herein, the terms "upstream" and "downstream" are used to indicate the relative position of a component or portion of a component of an aerosol generating device with respect to the direction in which a user draws on the aerosol generating device during use.

[0094] As used herein, the term "airflow path" means a channel suitable for transporting a gaseous medium. The airflow path may be used to transport ambient air. The airflow path may be used to transport an aerosol. The airflow path may be used to transport a mixture of air and an aerosol.

[0095] As used herein, "susceptor" or "susceptor element" means an element that heats when subjected to an alternating magnetic field. This may be the result of eddy currents induced in the susceptor element, hysteresis losses, or both eddy currents and hysteresis losses. During use, the susceptor element is located in thermal contact or thermal proximity with an aerosol-forming substrate received in an aerosol-generating device or cartridge. In this manner, the aerosol-forming substrate is heated by the susceptor, and as a result, an aerosol is formed.

[0096] The susceptor material can be any material that can be inductively heated to a temperature sufficient to aerosolize the aerosol-forming substrate. The following examples and features regarding susceptors can be applied to the susceptor element of the cartridge. Suitable materials for the susceptor material include graphite, molybdenum, silicon carbide, stainless steel, niobium, aluminum, nickel, nickel-containing compounds, titanium, and composites of metallic materials. Preferred susceptor materials include metal or carbon. Advantageously, the susceptor material can include or consist of ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic materials, such as ferritic iron, ferromagnetic steel, or stainless steel, ferromagnetic particles, and ferrite. A suitable susceptor material can be or include aluminum. The susceptor material can include more than 5 percent, preferably more than 20 percent, more preferably more than 50 percent, or more than 90 percent ferromagnetic, ferrimagnetic, or paramagnetic material. Preferred susceptor materials can be heated to temperatures in excess of 250 degrees Celsius without degradation.

[0097] The susceptor material may be formed from a single layer of material, which may be a steel layer.

[0098] The susceptor material may comprise a non-metallic core having a metallic layer disposed thereon, for example, the susceptor material may comprise a ceramic core or metallic tracks formed on the outer surface of the substrate.

[0099] The susceptor material may be formed from a layer of austenitic steel. One or more layers of stainless steel may be disposed on the layer of austenitic steel. For example, the susceptor material may be formed from a layer of austenitic steel with a layer of stainless steel on each of its upper and lower surfaces. The susceptor element may include a single susceptor material. The susceptor element may include a first susceptor material and a second susceptor material. The first susceptor material may be disposed in intimate physical contact with the second susceptor material. The first and second susceptor materials may be in intimate contact to form a unitary susceptor. In certain embodiments, the first susceptor material is stainless steel and the second susceptor material is nickel. The susceptor element may have a two-layer structure. The susceptor element may be formed from a stainless steel layer and a nickel layer.

[0100] The intimate contact between the first and second susceptor materials can be achieved by any suitable means. For example, the second susceptor material can be plated, vapor-deposited, coated, clad, or welded onto the first susceptor material. Preferred methods include electroplating, galvanizing, and cladding.

[0101] The aerosol generating device may include a power source for powering the heating element. The power source may comprise a battery. The power source may be a lithium-ion battery. Alternatively, the power source may be a nickel-metal hydride battery, a nickel-cadmium battery, or a lithium-based battery (e.g., a lithium-cobalt battery, a lithium-iron-phosphate battery, a lithium-titanate battery, or a lithium-polymer battery). The power source may require recharging and may have a capacity that allows for storage of sufficient energy for one or more use experiences; for example, the power source may have a capacity sufficient to continuously generate aerosol for a period of approximately six minutes, or a multiple of six minutes. In another embodiment, the power source may have a capacity sufficient to provide a predetermined number of puffs or discontinuous activation of the heating element.

[0102] The power source may be a direct current (DC) power source. In one embodiment, the power source is a DC power source having a DC supply voltage in the range of 2.5 volts to 4.5 volts and a DC supply current in the range of 1 ampere to 10 amperes (corresponding to a DC power range of 2.5 watts to 45 watts). The aerosol generating device may advantageously comprise a direct current to alternating current (DC / AC) inverter for converting the DC current provided by the DC power source to alternating current. The DC / AC converter may comprise a class D, class C, or class E power amplifier. The AC power output of the DC / AC converter is supplied to the induction coil.

[0103] The power supply may be adapted to power the inductor coil and may be configured to operate at high frequencies. A Class E power amplifier is preferred for high frequency operation. As used herein, the term "high frequency oscillating current" refers to an oscillating current having a frequency between 500 kilohertz and 30 megahertz. The high frequency oscillating current may have a frequency between 1 megahertz and 30 megahertz, preferably between 1 megahertz and 10 megahertz, and more preferably between 5 megahertz and 8 megahertz.

[0104] In alternative embodiments, the switching frequency of the power amplifier may be in the lower kHz range, for example, 100 kHz to 400 kHz. In embodiments where a class D or class C power amplifier is used, a switching frequency in the lower kHz range is particularly advantageous.

[0105] The aerosol generating device may include a controller. The controller may be electrically connected to the inductor coil. The controller may be electrically connected to the first induction coil and to the second induction coil. The controller may be configured to control the current supplied to the induction coil and therefore the magnetic field strength generated by the induction coil.

[0106] A power supply and a controller may be connected to the inductor coil.

[0107] The control device may be configured to be able to interrupt the current supply on the input side of the DC / AC converter, so that the power supplied to the inductor coil can be controlled by conventional methods of duty cycle management.

[0108] Features described with respect to one embodiment may be equally applied to other embodiments of the invention.

[0109] In Figures 1-6 below, one embodiment of a cartridge is described, in which the internal unit comprises a proximal tubular sealing component, an intermediate heater component, and a distal airflow management component. Further Figures 7-9 show various embodiments of the airflow management component with airflow directing elements.

[0110] 1a shows the tubular inner unit 10 of the aerosol generating device in a disassembled configuration. The inner unit 10 comprises a proximal tubular sealing component 20, an intermediate tubular heater component 40 having a susceptor element within its hollow interior (not shown), and a distal tubular airflow management component 60.

[0111] The sealing component 20 comprises a tubular element 22 and a proximal sealing element 24 disposed on an outer surface of the tubular element 22. The proximal sealing element 24 is provided as a continuous protrusion disposed circumferentially around the tubular element 22 of the sealing component 20. The proximal sealing element 24 is provided as a sealing lip.

[0112] Airflow management component 60 includes a tubular sidewall 62 and a distal sealing element 64 provided as an O-ring disposed on the outer surface of tubular sidewall 62. The O-ring is axially held in place between first and second protrusions 66, 67 of airflow management component 60.

[0113] Figure 1b shows the tubular inner unit 10 of Figure 1a in an assembled configuration. The sealing component 20, heater component 40, and airflow management component 60 are connected in series along the longitudinal axis 12. The distal end of the heater component 40 is plugged into the proximal end of the airflow management component 60. The proximal end of the heater component 40 is plugged into the distal end of the sealing component 20. The plugging action is indicated by the arrows in Figure 1a.

[0114] FIG. 1c shows the assembled tubular inner unit 10 of FIG. 1b in cross section. The airflow management component 60 includes an air inlet 68 through which air can enter the hollow tubular interior of the tubular inner unit 10. The air inlet 68 is spaced from the distal end of the airflow management component, which includes a retaining element 70 formed as the closed distal end wall of the airflow management component 60. An airflow directing element 72 protrudes from the distal end wall of the airflow management component. The airflow directing element 72 includes a partition element configured to direct airflow across the surface of the susceptor element. Both the surface 43 of the susceptor element 42 and the surface 71 of the airflow directing element 72 lie within the same plane 15. This allows a constant airflow to be directed from the surface of the airflow directing element toward the surface of the susceptor element to enhance aerosol formation. The inner airflow path 14 is enclosed by the tubular inner unit 10. The inner airflow path 14 passes through the airflow directing element 72 towards the susceptor 42 of the heater component 40 .

[0115] Figure 2a shows the cartridge 100 in an exploded configuration. The cartridge 100 comprises the inner unit 10 of Figures 1a to 1c. The cartridge 100 comprises a tubular sleeve element 80 and a mouthpiece 90.

[0116] Figure 2b shows the cartridge 100 of Figure 2a in a cross-sectional view in an assembled configuration. A tubular sleeve element 80 surrounds a portion of the inner unit 10. A liquid supply channel 82 is formed by the empty space between the inner unit 10 and the sleeve element 80. A distal sealing element 64 of the airflow management component 60 is configured to close and seal the distal end of the liquid supply channel 82.

[0117] The mouthpiece 90 includes a liquid reservoir 92 that surrounds a portion of the inner airflow path 14. The liquid reservoir 92 is provided by an empty space between an inner tubular wall portion 96 of the mouthpiece 90, which coaxially surrounds the inner airflow path 14, and an outer tubular wall portion 98 of the mouthpiece 90, which coaxially surrounds the liquid reservoir 92. A proximal end 94 of the mouthpiece 90 includes an air outlet. A distal end 99 of the mouthpiece 90 is attached to the proximal end 84 of the sleeve element 80. For example, permanent attachment may be achieved by ultrasonic welding.

[0118] 3a shows a cartridge 100 in which an air inlet 68 is located within the tubular sidewall 62 of the airflow management component 60. The air inlet 68 is therefore spaced from the distal end of the airflow management component 60. The airflow management component 60 thereby comprises a retaining element 70 provided at the distal end of the airflow management component 60, the retaining element 70 comprising the closed distal end wall of the airflow management component 60. Additionally, an airflow directing element 72 is present. The airflow directing element 72 is disposed between the air inlet 68 and the susceptor element 42.

[0119] The inner unit 10 is axially movable relative to the sleeve element 80 from a blocking position shown in FIG. 3 a, in which the proximal sealing element 24 is arranged to block the fluid connection between the liquid storage portion 92 and the liquid supply channel 82, to an open position shown in FIG. 3 b, in which the proximal sealing element 24 is moved to open the fluid connection between the liquid storage portion 92 and the liquid supply channel 82. In the blocking position shown in FIG. 3 a, the proximal sealing element 24 contacts an inner wall of the sleeve element 80 to block the fluid connection between the liquid storage portion 92 and the liquid supply channel 82. The cartridge in the blocking position can be withdrawn and is configured to be inserted into a cavity of an aerosol generation device.

[0120] In the open position shown in Figure 3b, the proximal sealing element 24 is moved away from the inner wall, opening the fluid connection between the liquid storage portion 92 and the liquid supply channel 82. In the open position shown in Figure 3b, a liquid passageway 16 is formed, allowing the liquid aerosol-forming substrate to move from the liquid storage portion 92 to the liquid supply channel 82. The distal sealing element 64 of the airflow management component 60 seals the distal end of the liquid supply channel 82, preventing the liquid aerosol-forming substrate from exiting the liquid supply channel 82 at its distal end in the open position. The airflow directing element 72 guides the inner airflow path 14 entering the cartridge from the air inlet 68 toward the susceptor element 42.

[0121] The distal portion of the inner tubular wall portion 96 of the mouthpiece 90 can slide within the proximal portion of the tubular element 22 of the sealing component 20 when the inner unit 10 is moved axially from the closed position shown in Figure 3a to the open position shown in Figure 3b. This axial movement can occur when the cartridge is inserted into the cavity of the aerosol generation device.

[0122] The heater element 40 includes a fluid-permeable wall portion 44 disposed to allow the liquid aerosol-forming substrate to move from the liquid supply channel 82 into the inner airflow path 14 and toward the susceptor element 42 .

[0123] 4a and 4b show, in cross-section, an aerosol generation system comprising a cartridge, such as cartridge 100 of FIGS. 2 and 3, and an aerosol generation device 200. The aerosol generation device 200 comprises a cavity 210 arranged to receive at least a distal portion of the cartridge 100. The cavity 210 is at least partially surrounded by an inductor coil 220.

[0124] The aerosol generating device 200 includes a pin element 230 protruding from the distal end face of the cavity 210. The pin element 230 is arranged to push the internal unit 10 of the cartridge 100 from the closed position to the open position when the distal portion of the cartridge 100 is inserted into the cavity 210. In particular, the pin element 230 is arranged to push the retaining element 70 of the internal unit 10. It is also possible that the pin element 230 could press the distal airflow management component 60 if the retaining element 70 is not present in the cartridge. FIG. 4b shows a configuration in which the distal portion of the cartridge 100 is inserted into the cavity 210 and the internal unit 10 is in the open position. As a result, the liquid aerosol-forming substrate can move toward the susceptor 42.

[0125] Further, as shown in FIG. 4b, with the distal portion of the cartridge 100 inserted into the cavity 210, the susceptor 42 of the cartridge 100 is positioned within the cavity 210 such that an alternating current applied to the inductor coil 220 generates an alternating magnetic field that induces current in the susceptor 42 and heats the susceptor 42.

[0126] Ambient air may enter the aerosol generation system through a gap between the cartridge 100 and the aerosol generation device 200. Alternatively, or additionally, the aerosol generation device 200 may include an air inlet (not shown) in fluid communication with the cavity 210.

[0127] Airflow path 240 is shown by the dotted line in Figure 4b. A liquid aerosol-forming substrate located in proximity to or in contact with the heated susceptor 42 may be vaporized due to the high temperature in the area of the susceptor 42. The vaporized material may be entrained by the airflow and travel downstream along airflow path 240 through the air outlet at the proximal end 94 of the cartridge 100, and the ripened aerosol may be inhaled by the user.

[0128] The distal end of the cartridge 100 may be provided with a connecting means (not shown), for example a magnetic connecting means configured to be releasably connectable to the aerosol generating device 200. The aerosol generating device 200 may be provided with a corresponding connecting means (not shown).

[0129] 5a and 5b show one embodiment of a heater component 40 in a perspective view (FIG. 4a) and a front view (FIG. 4b). A fluid-permeable wall portion 44 is formed by two slits in opposing sidewalls of the tubular heater component 40. A wick element 46 extends between and through the slits. The wick element 46 is positioned to transfer the liquid aerosol-forming substrate from the liquid feed channel 82 to the susceptor element 42 when the heater component 40 is disposed within the sleeve element 80. A central portion of the wick element 46 within the inner airflow path 14 is sandwiched by the susceptor element 42, which exhibits a U-shape.

[0130] Figures 6a and 6b show alternative embodiments of heater component 40 and airflow management component 60 in exploded (Figure 6a) and assembled (Figure 6b) configurations. Unlike the embodiment of Figures 1a-1c, in the embodiment of Figures 6a and 6b, a sealing element 64, provided as an O-ring, is held axially in place between a first protrusion 48 that is part of heater component 40 and a second protrusion 67 that is part of airflow management component 60.

[0131] FIG. 7a shows a side view of the airflow management component 60, including an air inlet 68 in the sidewall 62. The airflow management component 60 also includes a first protrusion 66 and a second protrusion 67 that can hold the distal sealing element 64 in place. FIG. 7b shows a top view of the airflow management component 60 of FIG. 7a. This top view shows that an airflow directing element 72 having the sidewall 62 resides within the inner airflow path 14 of the airflow management component 60. The top view also shows the second protrusion 67. The airflow directing element 72 is configured to direct airflow in a targeted manner onto the surface of a susceptor element 42 that is part of the heating component 40 of the cartridge 100.

[0132] 5a and 5b, the sandwich structure of the susceptor element 42 and the core element 46 may also have a flat, elongated configuration similar to that of the airflow directing element 72. This may enable the airflow directing element 72 to direct airflow onto both opposing major surfaces of the susceptor element 42.

[0133] FIG. 8a shows a side view of the airflow management component 60, including two air inlets 68 on a first side of the tubular sidewall 62, in the top view portion. Two additional air inlets 68 are present on the other side of the tubular sidewall 62, not shown. The central view of FIG. 8a shows an isometric front perspective view of the airflow management component 60. A first partition wall element 72a and an opposing second partition wall element 72b are visible, forming an airflow directing element and extending from the tubular sidewall 62 to the inner airflow path 14. The first and second partition wall elements are configured to direct ambient air entering the inner airflow path through the air inlets 68 toward the susceptor element 42. The bottom view of FIG. 8a shows a cross-sectional view of the airflow path indicated by the arrows, with air entering the inner airflow path 14 through the four air inlets 68. This airflow is further directed towards the susceptor element 42 by the first and second partition wall elements.

[0134] Figure 8b shows in its top view portion a side view of a different airflow management component 60, which, in contrast to the airflow management component shown in Figure 8a, includes only one air inlet 68 on one side of the tubular side wall 62. A second air inlet is present on the other side of the tubular side wall 62 (not shown in Figure 8b). The airflow directing elements, including first and second partition wall elements 72a and 72b, are the same as in Figure 8a, as shown in the central portion of the figure. The bottom of Figure 8b shows that the airflow through the air inlet 68, indicated by the arrows, is directed toward the first and second partition wall elements and further onto the susceptor element 42.

[0135] Figure 8c shows an embodiment of an airflow management component 60 similar to the airflow management component 60 shown in Figure 8b. In contrast to Figures 8a and 8b, a single airflow directing element 72 is present and extends between opposing wall portions of the tubular sidewall 62. This airflow directing element 72 forms a continuous bridge between the opposing wall portions of the tubular sidewall 62 and may therefore divide the airflow within the inner airflow pathway 14 into two separate portions.

[0136] Both embodiments of the airflow management component 60 shown in Figure 9 include distal end walls. In the embodiment shown in Figure 9a, two air inlets 68 are present in the distal end wall configured to allow air to enter the inner airflow pathway 14 toward the airflow directing element 72. Only one air inlet 68 is present in the distal end wall of the airflow management component 60 shown in Figure 9b. [Example]

[0137] The following provides a non-exhaustive list of non-limiting examples, any one or more of the features of which may be combined with any one or more features of another example, embodiment, or aspect described herein.

[0138] Example 1: 1. A cartridge for use in an aerosol generating device, comprising: a liquid reservoir for holding a liquid aerosol-forming substrate; an inner airflow path extending between the proximal and distal ends of the cartridge; a tubular inner unit surrounding at least a portion of the inner airflow path; the inner unit includes a tubular heater component including a susceptor element disposed within the inner airflow path; the internal unit includes a distal airflow management component including an airflow directing element disposed within the internal airflow path; The cartridge, wherein the airflow directing element is configured to direct an airflow across a surface of the susceptor element. Example 2: 2. The cartridge of example 1, wherein the airflow management component comprises a tubular sidewall surrounding the inner airflow pathway, and the airflow directing element comprises at least one divider element extending from the tubular sidewall into the inner airflow pathway. Example 3: 3. The cartridge of example 2, wherein the airflow directing element comprises a first divider element extending from the tubular sidewall into the inner airflow pathway and an opposing second divider element extending from the tubular sidewall into the inner airflow pathway. Example 4: 3. The cartridge of example 2, wherein the divider element extends between opposing wall portions of the tubular side wall. Example 5: 5. The cartridge of any one of Examples 1 to 4, wherein the susceptor element comprises at least one first plane and the airflow directing element is configured to direct the airflow across the at least one first plane, and preferably wherein the susceptor element further comprises a second plane and the airflow directing element is further configured to direct the airflow across the second plane. Example 6: 6. The cartridge of claim 5, wherein at least one partition element comprises a first plane, and the first plane of the susceptor element is aligned with the first plane of the partition element, and preferably, at least one partition element further comprises a second plane, and the second plane of the susceptor element is aligned with the second plane of the partition element. Example 7: 7. The cartridge of example 6, wherein the first planar surface of the partition wall element and the first planar surface of the susceptor element lie in a common plane. Example 8: The cartridge of any of Examples 1-7, wherein the susceptor element comprises one of a mesh, a foam, or a grid. Example 9: The cartridge of any one of Examples 1 to 8, wherein the susceptor element comprises one or more of a metal, an alloy, and a conductive ceramic. Example 10: a tubular sleeve element surrounding at least a portion of the inner unit; a liquid supply channel disposed between the inner unit and the sleeve element; 10. The cartridge of any of Examples 1-9, wherein the heater component comprises a wick element disposed to move the liquid aerosol-forming substrate from the liquid feed channel to the susceptor element. Example 11: 11. The cartridge of example 10, wherein the core element comprises one or more of a cotton-based material, a porous ceramic-based material, and a porous graphite-based material. Example 12: 12. The cartridge of any of Examples 10 or 11, wherein the wick element is in direct contact with the susceptor element, preferably the wick element is sandwiched between two layers of the susceptor element. Example 13: 13. The cartridge of example 12, wherein the core element is in the form of a sheet and the susceptor element is U-shaped and mounted on the core element within the airflow path. Example 14: 14. The cartridge of any of Examples 10 to 13, wherein the tubular heater component comprises a tubular wall surrounding the inner airflow path, the tubular wall comprising a fluid-permeable wall portion disposed to allow movement of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate from the liquid supply channel to the inner airflow path. Example 15: 15. The cartridge of example 14, wherein the fluid-permeable wall portion is formed by two slits in opposing side walls of the tubular heater element. Example 16: The cartridge of the combination of example 12 and example 15, wherein the wick element extends transversely through the inner airflow passage and protrudes from the inner airflow passage through a slit into the liquid feed channel. Example 17: the internal unit further comprises a tubular sealing component provided distal to the tubular heater component, the sealing component comprising a tubular element surrounding a portion of the airflow path and a proximal sealing element disposed on an outer surface of the tubular element; A cartridge described in any of Examples 10 to 16, wherein the internal unit is axially movable relative to the sleeve element from a blocking position in which the proximal sealing element is arranged to block the fluid connection between the liquid storage portion and the liquid supply channel, to an open position in which the proximal sealing element is moved to open the fluid connection between the liquid storage portion and the liquid supply channel. Example 18: A cartridge described in any of Examples 1 to 17, wherein the airflow management component has at least one air intake port, the at least one air intake port configured to provide air toward the airflow directing element, and preferably, the airflow management component has at least two air intake ports. Example 19: 19. The cartridge of Example 18, wherein the airflow management component comprises a tubular sidewall surrounding an inner airflow path, and wherein at least one air intake port is located within the tubular sidewall, and preferably at least two air intake ports are located within the tubular sidewall. Example 20: 20. The cartridge of example 19, wherein the at least two air inlets are located within the tubular sidewall, the at least two air inlets being located in opposing regions of the tubular sidewall. Example 21: 20. The cartridge of Example 19, wherein at least two air intake ports are located within the tubular side wall, and wherein the at least two air intake ports are located on opposite sides of the air flow directing element, and preferably the air flow directing element comprises at least one partition wall element. Example 22: 19. The cartridge of example 18, wherein the airflow management component comprises a distal end wall, the distal end wall being located within the inner airflow path, and the at least one air intake being located within the distal end wall. Example 23: 23. The cartridge of any of Examples 1-22, wherein the airflow management component and the tubular heater component are configured as separate structural components connected along the longitudinal axis of the inner unit, preferably wherein the airflow management component is connected to the tubular heater component via a plug connection. Example 24: 24. The cartridge of claim 23, further dependent on claim 17, wherein the tubular sealing component is configured as a separate structural component, and the tubular sealing component is connected to the tubular heater component along the longitudinal axis of the inner unit. Example 25: A cartridge according to any one of Examples 1 to 24, wherein a proximal end portion of the cartridge is configured as a mouthpiece, and preferably the liquid storage portion is at least partially provided within the mouthpiece. Example 26: The cartridge of any one of Examples 1 to 25, wherein the liquid reservoir surrounds a portion of the inner airflow path. Example 27: 1. An aerosol generating system comprising: A cartridge according to any one of Examples 1 to 26; An aerosol generation system comprising: an aerosol generation device having a cavity arranged to receive at least a distal portion of a cartridge, the cavity being at least partially surrounded by an inductor coil. Example 28: An aerosol generation system as described in Example 27, wherein the aerosol generating device comprises a pin element protruding from the distal end face of the cavity and arranged to press against the distal airflow management component when the cartridge is inserted into the cavity.

Claims

1. A cartridge for use in an aerosol generator, A liquid storage section for holding the liquid aerosol forming substrate, An inner airflow path extending between the proximal and distal ends of the cartridge, It comprises a tubular internal unit that surrounds at least a portion of the internal airflow path, The internal unit comprises a tubular heater component having a susceptor element disposed within the internal airflow path, The internal unit comprises a distal airflow management component having an airflow directing element disposed within the internal airflow path, The airflow directing element is configured to direct the airflow across the surface of the susceptor element, and The airflow management component is a cartridge comprising at least one air intake, wherein the at least one air intake is configured to supply air toward the airflow directing element.

2. The cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the airflow management component comprises a tubular side wall surrounding the inner airflow path, and the airflow directing element comprises at least one partition wall element extending from the tubular side wall to the inner airflow path.

3. The cartridge according to claim 2, wherein the airflow directing element comprises a first partition wall element extending from the tubular side wall to the inner airflow path, and a second opposing partition wall element extending from the tubular side wall to the inner airflow path.

4. The cartridge according to claim 2, wherein the partition wall element extends between opposing wall portions of the tubular side wall.

5. The cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the susceptor element comprises at least one first plane, and the airflow directing element is configured to direct the airflow across the at least one first plane, preferably the susceptor element further comprises a second plane, and the airflow directing element is further configured to direct the airflow across the second plane.

6. The cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the susceptor element comprises one or more of a metal, an alloy, a susceptor core element comprising susceptor particles scattered within the susceptor core element, and a conductive ceramic.

7. The cartridge according to claim 6, wherein the fluid permeable wall portion is formed by two slits in the opposing side walls of the tubular heater component.

8. The cartridge according to claim 7, wherein the sensitive core element is in direct contact with the susceptor element, extends transversely through the inner airflow path, and protrudes from the inner airflow path through the slit to the liquid supply channel.

9. The cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the airflow management component comprises at least two air intake ports.

10. The cartridge according to claim 9, wherein the airflow management component comprises a tubular side wall surrounding the inner airflow path, and at least one air intake is located within the tubular side wall, preferably at least two air intakes are located within the tubular side wall.

11. The cartridge according to claim 10, wherein at least two air intakes are located within the tubular side wall, and the at least two air intakes are located in opposing regions of the tubular side wall.

12. The cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the airflow management component and the tubular heater component are configured as separate structural components connected along the longitudinal axis of the internal unit, and preferably the airflow management component is connected to the tubular heater component via a plug connection.

13. The cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the proximal end portion of the cartridge is configured as a mouthpiece, and preferably the liquid storage portion is at least partially provided within the mouthpiece.

14. an aerosol generation system, A cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 13, Aerosol generating system comprising: an aerosol generating device having a cavity disposed to receive at least the distal portion of the cartridge, wherein the cavity is at least partially surrounded by an inductor coil.

15. The aerosol generating system according to claim 14, wherein the aerosol generating device comprises a pin element that protrudes from the distal end face of the cavity and is arranged to press against the distal airflow management component when the cartridge is inserted into the cavity.

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