Aerosol generator with a curved chamber

Abstract

The present invention provides an aerosol generator, an aerosol generation system equipped with an aerosol generator, and a cartridge equipped with an aerosol generator. [Solution] An aerosol generator comprising a non-thermal aerosol generating element, an air intake, an air outlet, and a chamber between the air intake and the air outlet. The aerosol generating element is disposed within the chamber and configured to release an aerosolized aerosol-forming substrate into the chamber. The aerosol generator further comprises an airflow path extending through the chamber between the air intake and at least one air outlet via the non-thermal aerosol generating element, and a side wall surrounding the aerosol generating element. The side wall has a curved surface defining the curved surface of the chamber, and at least one air intake extends through the side wall and directs air into the chamber tangentially to the curved surface of the chamber.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an aerosol generator, an aerosol generation system including the aerosol generator, and a cartridge including the aerosol generator.

Background Art

[0002] Aerosol generation systems including an aerosol generator configured to generate an aerosol from an aerosol-forming substrate are generally known in the art. Such aerosol generation systems often generate an inhalable aerosol for a user to inhale. Some known aerosol generators utilize heat to vaporize the aerosol-forming substrate, and the vaporized aerosol-forming substrate is cooled to form an aerosol. Other aerosol generators use non-thermal means to aerosolize a liquid aerosol-forming substrate. For example, some known non-thermal aerosol generators use a vibrating mesh to aerosolize a liquid aerosol-forming substrate, and some known non-thermal aerosol generators use surface acoustic waves to aerosolize a liquid aerosol-forming substrate.

[0003] It has been found that when an aerosol is generated by an aerosol generator, aerosol droplets may contact the surface of the aerosol generator and deposit on the surface, preventing the deposited aerosol droplets from being delivered to the user. In particular, the deposition of aerosol droplets on the surface of the aerosol generator is particularly problematic in non-thermal aerosol generators, where the aerosolized liquid aerosol-forming substrate may tend to contain larger droplets than the vapor generated by the heated aerosol-forming substrate. Larger aerosol droplets tend to deposit on the surface of the aerosol generator before being delivered to the consumer. Similarly, non-thermal aerosol generators may be configured to generate aerosol droplets without air flowing through or along the non-thermal aerosol generator. The absence of an air flow when the aerosol droplets are generated may cause the aerosol droplets to deposit on the surface of the aerosol generator.

[0004] It is desirable to provide an aerosol generator that reduces the possibility of aerosol droplets accumulating on the generator surface before the aerosol is delivered to the consumer. [Overview of the project]

[0005] The present disclosure provides an aerosol generator configured to generate an aerosol from an aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol generator may further comprise an aerosol generating element configured to aerosolize the aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol generator may comprise at least one air intake and at least one air outlet. The aerosol generator may comprise a chamber between the at least one air intake and at least one air outlet. The aerosol generating element may be disposed within the chamber and configured to release the aerosolized aerosol-forming substrate into the chamber. The aerosol generator may further comprise an airflow path extending through the chamber between the at least one air intake and at least one air outlet via the aerosol generating element.

[0006] According to a preferred embodiment of the present disclosure, an aerosol generator is provided configured to generate an aerosol from an aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol generator may further comprise an aerosol-generating element configured to aerosolize the aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol generator may further comprise at least one air intake and at least one air outlet. The aerosol generator may further comprise a chamber between the at least one air intake and at least one air outlet. The aerosol-generating element may be disposed within the chamber and configured to release the aerosolized aerosol-forming substrate into the chamber. The aerosol generator may further comprise an airflow path extending through the chamber between the air intake and at least one air outlet via the aerosol-generating element. The aerosol generator may further comprise a side wall surrounding the aerosol-generating element. The side wall may have a curved surface defining a curved surface of the chamber. At least one air intake may extend through the side wall. At least one air intake may be configured to direct air into the chamber tangentially to the curved surface of the chamber.

[0007] By providing an aerosol generator with a curved surface and directing air into the chamber tangentially to the curved surface, it is advantageous that the accumulation of aerosol droplets on the surface of the aerosol generator can be reduced. Reducing the accumulation of aerosol droplets on the surface of the aerosol generator can improve the consistency of aerosol delivery to the user. Furthermore, the accumulation of undesirable liquids on the surface of the aerosol generator can be reduced. Reducing the accumulation of undesirable liquids on the surface of the aerosol generator can reduce leakage from the aerosol generator.

[0008] The inventors provide an aerosol generator with a curved surface, and by directing air into the chamber tangentially to the curved surface, air entering the chamber through at least one air intake follows the curved surface of the chamber, forming a pocket of air that swirls along the outer circumference of the chamber. The inventors have recognized that this pocket of air swirling along the outer circumference of the chamber can be used to surround aerosols generated by the aerosol generating element and direct the generated aerosols away from the surface of the chamber. By directing the generated aerosols away from the surface of the chamber, the amount of aerosols accumulating on the surface of the chamber can be greatly reduced.

[0009] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the aerosol generating element is a non-thermal aerosol generating element. It has been found that providing an aerosol generator with a curved surface and directing air into the chamber tangentially to the curved surface can be particularly effective in reducing the accumulation of generated aerosols on the surface of the aerosol generator in an aerosol generator with a non-thermal aerosol generating element. This is because aerosol droplets generated by a non-thermal aerosol generating element tend to be larger than droplets generated by a thermal aerosol generating element, and larger aerosol droplets tend to accumulate on the surface of the aerosol generator. Similarly, a non-thermal aerosol generator may be configured to generate aerosol droplets without air flowing through or along the non-thermal aerosol generator. Also, the lack of airflow during aerosol droplet generation can cause aerosol droplets to accumulate on the surface of the aerosol generator.

[0010] According to another preferred embodiment of the present disclosure, an aerosol generator is provided configured to generate an aerosol from an aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol generator may comprise a planar aerosol-generating element configured to aerosolize the aerosol-forming substrate. The planar aerosol-generating element may extend substantially in a plane. The aerosol generator may further comprise at least one air intake and at least one air outlet. The aerosol generator may further comprise a chamber between the at least one air intake and at least one air outlet. The planar aerosol-generating element may be disposed within the chamber and configured to release the aerosolized aerosol-forming substrate into the chamber. The aerosol generator may further comprise an airflow path extending through the chamber between the air intake and at least one air outlet via the planar aerosol-generating element. The aerosol generator may further comprise a side wall surrounding the aerosol-generating element. The side wall may have a surface defining the surface of the chamber. At least one air intake may extend through the side wall. At least one air intake may be configured to direct air into the chamber away from the surface of the planar aerosol generating element. At least one air intake may be configured to direct air in a direction between the plane of the planar aerosol generating element and at least one air outlet.

[0011] It has been found that aerosol generation from an aerosol generating element can be improved by directing the airflow into the chamber away from the planar aerosol generating element and toward the opening. Advantageously, airflow within the chamber directed away from the planar aerosol generating element promotes the movement of aerosols generated from the element away from the element, reducing backflow of aerosols toward the element. Backflow of aerosols generated from an aerosol generating element toward the element has been found to interrupt aerosol generation, potentially resulting in one or more of the following: a reduction in the rate of aerosol generation and the generation of aerosols with different, undesirable properties.

[0012] According to another preferred embodiment of the present disclosure, an aerosol generator is provided configured to generate an aerosol from an aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol generator may comprise a planar aerosol-generating element configured to aerosolize the aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol generator may further comprise a planar auxiliary element connected to the aerosol-generating element. The aerosol generator may further comprise at least one air intake extending through the planar auxiliary element. The planar aerosol-generating element and the planar auxiliary element may extend in substantially the same plane. At least one air intake may be configured to direct air away from the plane.

[0013] As described above, it has been found that directing the airflow into the chamber away from the planar aerosol generating element can improve aerosol generation from the aerosol generating element. Advantageously, an airflow directed away from the planar aerosol generating element promotes the movement of aerosols generated from the element away from the element, and can reduce the backflow of aerosols toward the element.

[0014] In a preferred embodiment comprising a chamber between at least one air intake and at least one air outlet, at least one air intake and the chamber may be configured to direct the air to rotate or swirl along the outer circumference of the chamber. Preferably, at least one air intake is configured to direct the air along the outer circumference of the chamber. At least one air intake may be arranged tangentially to direct the air into the chamber.

[0015] In some embodiments, the chamber extends along a central longitudinal axis. In these embodiments, the chamber may be substantially symmetrical with respect to the central longitudinal axis. At least one air intake may be configured to direct air into the chamber in a direction that does not intersect the central longitudinal axis of the chamber. At least one air intake may be configured to direct air into the chamber in a direction around the central longitudinal axis of the chamber.

[0016] Advantageously, by directing the air into the chamber in a direction that causes rotation of the air along the outer circumference of the chamber around the axis of rotation, the accumulation of aerosol droplets on the chamber surface can be reduced.

[0017] In some preferred embodiments, the aerosol generator comprises a side wall having a surface that surrounds the aerosol generating element and defines the surface of the chamber. At least one air intake may extend through the side wall. In some embodiments, the surface of the side wall is a curved surface that defines the curved surface of the chamber.

[0018] At least one air intake may be configured to direct air into the chamber tangentially to the curved surface of the chamber. At least one air intake may be configured to direct air into the chamber in directions angled from the tangent to the curved surface at 0 to 90 degrees, or 0 to 80 degrees, or 0 to 70 degrees, or 0 to 60 degrees, or 0 to 50 degrees, or 0 to 40 degrees, or 0 to 30 degrees, or 0 to 20 degrees, or 0 to 100 degrees. In some embodiments, the chamber extends along a central longitudinal axis, and at least one air intake and the surface of the chamber are configured to direct air around the central longitudinal axis of the chamber. In some embodiments, at least one air intake may be configured to direct air into the chamber in directions between the tangent to the curved surface and the central longitudinal axis of the chamber.

[0019] The chamber may include a mouth end. At least one air outlet may be located at or toward the mouth end. The chamber may include an aerosol generating end. The aerosol generating element may be located at or toward the aerosol generating end. At least one air intake may be located toward the aerosol generating end. The aerosol generating end may be located on the opposite side of the mouth end.

[0020] The aerosol generating element may form the surface of the chamber. The aerosol generating element may define the surface at the aerosol generating end of the chamber.

[0021] In embodiments comprising a side wall defining the surface of the chamber, at least one air intake may extend through the side wall at a position toward the aerosol generation end of the chamber. The side wall may surround an aerosol generation element. The side wall may extend between the mouth end and the aerosol generation end. The side wall may extend between the aerosol generation element at the aerosol generation end and at least one air outlet at the mouth end. At least one air intake may extend through the side wall.

[0022] The chamber can have any suitable shape and size.

[0023] In some embodiments, the surface of the side wall defines a tapered chamber. For example, the width of the chamber at the mouth end may be less than the width of the chamber at the aerosol-generating end. This can enable aerosol generators in which the width of the aerosol-generating element is greater than the width of the mouth end opening. In some embodiments in which airflow is provided to the aerosol-generating element when aerosol droplets are generated, providing a tapered chamber can be advantageously used to enhance aerosol generation.

[0024] In some embodiments where the sidewall surface defines a tapered chamber, the taper of the chamber may be constant from the aerosol generation end to the mouth end. In other words, the taper angle of the sidewall surface with respect to the central longitudinal axis of the chamber may be constant from the aerosol generation end to the mouth end. In other words, the sidewall surface extends straight in one direction between the aerosol generation end and the mouth end. The tapered sidewall may define a conical chamber surface. The sidewall may define a circular conical chamber surface. The sidewall may define an elliptical conical chamber surface.

[0025] In some embodiments where the sidewall surface defines a tapered chamber, the taper of the chamber may vary from the aerosol generation end to the mouth end. In other words, the taper angle of the sidewall surface with respect to the central longitudinal axis of the chamber may vary from the aerosol generation end to the mouth end. Advantageously, by varying the taper of the chamber from the aerosol generation end to the mouth end, the deposition of aerosol droplets on the surface of the chamber can be further reduced.

[0026] In some embodiments, the taper of the chamber or the taper angle of the sidewall surface may increase from the aerosol generation end to the mouth end. In other words, the sidewall may define a concave chamber surface. In these embodiments, the sidewall may define a dome-shaped chamber surface.

[0027] In some embodiments, the taper of the chamber, or the taper angle of the sidewall surface, may decrease from the aerosol generation end to the mouth end. In these embodiments, the sidewall may define a convex chamber surface. In these embodiments, the sidewall may define a horn-shaped chamber surface.

[0028] In some embodiments, the sidewall surface defines a cylindrical chamber. The width of the chamber at the mouth end may be the same as the width of the chamber at the aerosol generation end. The sidewall surface may define a circular cylindrical chamber surface. The sidewall surface may define an elliptical cylindrical chamber surface.

[0029] In some embodiments, at least one air guide may be provided on the surface of the chamber. The at least one air guide may direct the airflow into the chamber along the outer periphery of the chamber. The at least one air guide may direct the airflow into the chamber along the periphery of the chamber. The at least one air guide may direct the airflow into the chamber towards at least one air outlet. The at least one air guide may direct the airflow into the chamber away from the aerosol generating element. By providing one or more air guides on the surface of the chamber, the rotation of the air along the outer periphery of the chamber about the axis of rotation is improved, and the deposition of aerosol droplets on the surface of the chamber can be further reduced.

[0030] The aerosol generating element can take any suitable form depending on the type of aerosol generating element required. The aerosol generating element can include, for example, a mesh, a flat spiral coil, a fiber, or a cloth. In some embodiments, the aerosol generating element can include a sheet or a strip.

[0031] In some embodiments, the aerosol generating element is a thermal aerosol generating element. As used herein, the term "thermal aerosol generating element" refers to an aerosol generating element configured to generate an aerosol from an aerosol-forming substrate by heating. The aerosol generating element may be a resistive heater. The thermal aerosol generating element can be a susceptor that can be heated by penetration with an alternating magnetic field. The thermal aerosol generating element can be an aerosol-forming substrate configured to be heated by absorbing energy from an electromagnetic field applied to the substrate.

[0032] The thermal aerosol generating element may also have an internal heater. The internal heater is configured to heat the aerosol-forming substrate from the inside. The thermal aerosol generating element may also be configured to penetrate the aerosol-forming substrate. For example, the thermal aerosol generating element may take the form of a blade or pin configured to penetrate the aerosol-forming substrate.

[0033] The thermal aerosol generating element may also be an external heater. The external heater is configured to heat the aerosol-forming substrate from its outer surface.

[0034] Thermal aerosol generating elements can take the form of coils or meshes.

[0035] In some preferred embodiments, the aerosol generating element is a non-thermal aerosol generating element. As used herein, the term “non-thermal aerosol generating element” refers to an aerosol generating element configured to generate an aerosol from an aerosol-forming substrate by means other than heating.

[0036] The aerosol generating element can be any suitable type of non-thermal aerosol generating element.

[0037] In some embodiments, the non-thermal aerosol generating element is a mesh. The mesh aerosol generating element may have a plurality of gaps, passages, or nozzles. The plurality of gaps, passages, or nozzles may have a tapered shape along their length. The plurality of gaps, passages, or nozzles may have a conical shape along their length.

[0038] In some preferred embodiments, the mesh aerosol generating element may be a vibrable mesh element configured to vibrate. The mesh aerosol generating element may be configured to aerosolize an aerosol-forming substrate when the vibrable mesh element vibrates. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may pass through the nozzle of the vibrable mesh element when the vibrable mesh element vibrates. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may be aerosolized when it passes through the nozzle of the vibrable mesh element when the vibrable mesh element vibrates.

[0039] In these embodiments, the aerosol generator may further include an actuator connected to the mesh aerosol generating element. The actuator may be configured to vibrate the mesh aerosol generating element.

[0040] The actuator can be any type of actuator for exciting vibrations in the mesh aerosol generating element. The actuator may include a piezoelectric transducer. Piezoelectric transducers can be small enough, lightweight, and provide an actuator that is easy to control for use in handheld aerosol generating systems.

[0041] The piezoelectric transducer may contain a single-crystal material. The piezoelectric transducer may contain quartz. The piezoelectric transducer may contain a ceramic. The ceramic may contain barium titanate (BaTiOs). The ceramic may contain lead zirconate titanate (PZT). The ceramic may contain doping materials such as Ni, Bi, La, Nd, or Nb ions. The piezoelectric transducer may be polarized. The piezoelectric transducer may not be polarized. The piezoelectric transducer may contain both polarized and non-polarized piezoelectric materials.

[0042] The actuator may be positioned at any suitable location relative to the mesh aerosol generating element. The actuator may be positioned to transmit vibrations to the mesh aerosol generating element on either the inlet or outlet side of the mesh aerosol generating element. The actuator may be positioned to transmit vibrations to the mesh aerosol generating element on the inlet side. The actuator may be positioned to transmit vibrations to the mesh aerosol generating element on the outlet side. The actuator may be in direct contact with the mesh aerosol generating element. The actuator may be fixed to the mesh aerosol generating element. The actuator may be fixed to the mesh aerosol generating element by pressure. The actuator may be bonded to the mesh aerosol generating element. A transmission member may be provided between the actuator and the mesh aerosol generating element to transmit vibrations from the actuator to the vibrable element.

[0043] The actuator may include at least one actuation element. At least one actuation element may have any suitable shape. At least one actuation element may be substantially circular or elliptical. At least one actuation element may be substantially triangular, square, or have any regular or irregular shape. At least one actuation element may be annular. At least one actuation element may substantially surround the mesh aerosol generating element.

[0044] At least one actuation element may be planar. At least one planar actuation element may extend substantially in a plane. Preferably, in embodiments where the mesh aerosol generating element is planar, at least one actuation element is planar. In embodiments where the mesh aerosol generating element is planar and at least one actuation element is planar, at least one actuation element may extend substantially in the same plane as the mesh aerosol generating element.

[0045] In some particularly preferred embodiments, the mesh aerosol generating element is planar and extending in a plane with a circular cross-section, and at least one operating element is planar and extending in substantially the same plane as the mesh aerosol generating element and surrounds the mesh aerosol generating element.

[0046] The actuator may be configured to vibrate an element capable of vibrating at a predetermined frequency. The predetermined frequency could be approximately 20 kHz to 1500 kHz, or approximately 50 kHz to 1000 kHz, or approximately 100 kHz to 500 kHz. This may provide a desired aerosol output rate and droplet size for a good user experience.

[0047] In some preferred embodiments where the non-thermal aerosol generating element is a mesh aerosol generating element, the mesh aerosol generating element may not be configured to vibrate. In these embodiments, the mesh aerosol generating element may be housed in a vibrating chamber. The vibrating chamber may include a cavity configured to contain a liquid aerosol-forming substrate to be aerosolized. The vibrating chamber may further include a liquid inlet for providing a supply of the liquid to be aerosolized to the cavity. The vibrating chamber may further include an elastically deformable element and an actuator disposed to vibrate the elastically deformable element. Vibration of the elastically deformable element by the actuator can change the pressure inside the cavity. Vibration of the elastically deformable element can change the pressure of the liquid contained in the cavity, causing the liquid inside the cavity to pass through the mesh aerosol generating element and be aerosolized.

[0048] The actuator may be a piezoelectric transducer, as described above.

[0049] The actuator may be configured to vibrate an elastically deformable element at any suitable frequency. For example, the actuator may be configured to vibrate the elastically deformable element at frequencies of approximately 0.05 MHz to 10.0 MHz, approximately 0.1 MHz to 5.0 MHz, approximately 0.2 MHz to 4.5 MHz, approximately 0.3 MHz to 3 MHz, approximately 0.4 MHz to 2.5 MHz, or approximately 0.5 MHz to 2 MHz. The actuator may be configured to vibrate the elastically deformable element at a frequency to achieve resonance in the vibration system.

[0050] In some embodiments, the non-thermal aerosol generating element may be part of a surface acoustic wave atomizer (SAW atomizer). The SAW atomizer uses surface acoustic waves to atomize a liquid aerosol-forming substrate. The term "surface acoustic wave" is used herein to include Rayleigh waves, Lamb waves, and Love waves.

[0051] A SAW atomizer comprises a substrate containing an active surface. The aerosol generating element may form a substrate containing an active surface.

[0052] The SAW atomizer may further comprise at least one transducer positioned on the active surface of the substrate to generate surface acoustic waves on the active surface of the substrate.

[0053] During use, power is supplied to the SAW atomizer, activating at least one transducer and potentially generating surface acoustic waves (Rayleigh waves) that propagate along the active surface. The energy of the surface acoustic waves can be transferred to a liquid aerosol-forming substrate supplied to the atomization region of the active surface. The energy supplied to the liquid aerosol-forming substrate causes aerosol droplets to form, and the liquid aerosol-forming substrate is atomized in the atomization region. The surface acoustic waves transmitted into the liquid destabilize droplets on the open surface of the liquid, causing the droplet surfaces to split and form a misty aerosol.

[0054] A commonly known SAW sensor chip may be used as a SAW atomizer. A SAW sensor chip typically comprises at least an interdigital (or interdigitized) transducer with electrodes disposed on (e.g., printed on) a piezoelectric substrate. An AC voltage applied to individual "finger" electrodes of the transducer causes mechanical deformation in the piezoelectric substrate due to alternating regions of tensile and compressive strain within the substrate between the fingers. Since fingers on the same side of the transducer are at the same compression or tension level, the space between them (known as the transducer pitch) corresponds to the wavelength of the mechanical wave. The generated wave typically has an amplitude in the nanometer range and propagates along the surface of the piezoelectric substrate at a frequency in the megahertz range.

[0055] At least one transducer of a SAW atomizer may be an interdigital transducer comprising electrodes arranged on a piezoelectric substrate. The transducer may include a reflector to improve the directionality of the generated surface acoustic waves. The transducer may be configured to generate parallel waves, for example, by an array of straight electrodes arranged in parallel. The transducer may be configured to have a focusing effect on the generated waves. For example, the transducer may be provided with parallel but curved electrodes to concentrate the generated waves into a small zone. It is preferable that the transducer includes a reflector and has a focusing effect.

[0056] A SAW atomizer may be configured to generate surface acoustic waves at a predetermined frequency. This predetermined frequency may be approximately 20 MHz or higher, for example, 20 MHz to approximately 100 MHz, or approximately 20 MHz to approximately 80 MHz. This can provide the desired aerosol output rate and droplet size for a good user experience.

[0057] In some embodiments, the non-thermal aerosol generating element includes one or more of the following elements: impact jet, rotating disk, spray nozzle, flow focusing / blending device, and impact atomizer.

[0058] In some preferred embodiments, the aerosol generating element is a planar aerosol generating element. The planar aerosol generating element extends substantially in a plane. The planar element may extend in a plane.

[0059] Planar aerosol generating elements can be arranged in any suitable manner within the chamber of the aerosol generator.

[0060] In some embodiments, the chamber extends along the central longitudinal axis, and the plane of the planar aerosol generating element is parallel to the central longitudinal axis of the chamber.

[0061] In some preferred embodiments, the chamber extends along a central longitudinal axis, and the plane of the planar aerosol generating element is perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis of the chamber. In some embodiments, the chamber includes a mouth end, and at least one air outlet is located at the mouth end, the planar aerosol generating element is positioned such that the main surface of the aerosol generating element, through which aerosols are generated, faces the mouth end.

[0062] In some embodiments, at least one air intake is positioned to direct the air in a direction parallel to the plane of the planar aerosol generating element.

[0063] In some preferred embodiments, at least one air intake may be positioned to direct air into the chamber away from the plane of the planar aerosol generating element. The at least one air intake may be positioned to direct air in directions angled from the plane of the planar aerosol generating element at angles of 0 to 90 degrees, or 5 to 85 degrees, or 10 to 80 degrees, or 15 to 75 degrees, or 20 to 70 degrees, or 25 to 65 degrees, or 30 to 60 degrees, or 65 to 85 degrees, or 70 to 80 degrees.

[0064] At least one air intake may be positioned to direct the air in a direction between the plane of the planar aerosol generating element and at least one air outlet.

[0065] The aerosol generating element may be thin. In other words, the aerosol generating element may have a thickness dimension that is substantially smaller than the width and length dimensions of the aerosol generating element.

[0066] At least a portion of the aerosol generating element may be fluid permeable. In some embodiments, the aerosol generating element is fluid permeable. As used herein, “fluid permeable” element means an element that allows a liquid or gas to permeate through it. The aerosol generating element may have a plurality of openings formed inside to allow a fluid to permeate through it. In particular, the aerosol generating element may allow an aerosol-forming substrate to permeate through the openings, whether in the gas phase or in both the gas and liquid phases.

[0067] In some preferred embodiments, the aerosol generating element may include a mesh. The aerosol generating element may include an array of filaments forming a mesh. As used herein, the term “mesh” encompasses grids and arrays of filaments with spaces between them. The term mesh also includes woven and nonwoven fabrics.

[0068] The filaments may define gaps between them, and these gaps may have a width of 10 to 100 micrometers. Preferably, the filaments create capillary action within the gaps so that the source liquid is drawn into the gaps during use, increasing the contact area between the aerosol generating element and the liquid.

[0069] The filaments may form a mesh of size 160 to 600 mesh US (+ / - 10%) (i.e., 160 to 600 filaments per inch (+ / - 10%)). The gap width may be 35 to 140 micrometers, or 25 to 75 micrometers. For example, the gap width may be 40 micrometers or 63 micrometers. The ratio of the mesh opening area, which is the ratio of the gap area to the total mesh area, is preferably 25 to 56%. The mesh may be formed using different types of woven or lattice structures. Alternatively, the filaments may consist of arrays of filaments arranged parallel to each other.

[0070] The filaments may be formed by etching a sheet material such as foil. This can be particularly advantageous when the heater assembly comprises an array of parallel filaments. If the heating element includes a mesh or cloth of filaments, the filaments may be formed individually or woven together.

[0071] Preferably, the mesh is sintered. The filaments of the mesh can be sintered together. Advantageously, sintering the mesh creates electrical coupling between filaments extending in different directions. In particular, if the mesh contains one or more woven and nonwoven fabrics, it is advantageous to sinter the mesh in such a way that electrical coupling is created between overlapping filaments.

[0072] Mesh can also be characterized by its ability to hold liquids, as is well known in the art.

[0073] The mesh filament may have a diameter of 8 to 100 micrometers, 30 to 100 micrometers, 8 to 50 micrometers, or 8 to 39 micrometers. The mesh filament may also have a diameter of 50 micrometers.

[0074] The mesh filament may have any suitable cross-section. For example, the filament may have a round cross-section or a flat cross-section.

[0075] The aerosol generator preferably has at least one air intake. The at least one air intake may be configured to direct air into the chamber of the aerosol generator. If the aerosol generator has side walls defining the surface of the chamber, the at least one air intake may extend through the side walls.

[0076] At least one air intake may have any suitable cross-sectional shape. For example, at least one air intake may have one of the following cross-sections: circular, elliptical, square, rectangular, and triangular. At least one air intake may have a polygonal cross-section.

[0077] At least one air intake may have a total cross-sectional area of ​​0.5 to 30 square millimeters, or 2 to 25 square millimeters, or 5 to 20 square millimeters, or 5 to 20 square millimeters, or 5 to 15 square millimeters. Such a total cross-sectional area may allow at least one air intake to direct a desired airflow into the chamber.

[0078] At least one air intake may include multiple air intakes. At least one air intake may include any suitable number of air intakes. For example, at least one air intake may include two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, or nine air intakes. At least one air intake may include any suitable number of air intakes to provide the desired airflow into the chamber. Multiple air intakes may have a total cross-sectional area of ​​2 to 30 square millimeters, or 2 to 25 square millimeters, or 5 to 20 square millimeters, or 5 to 20 square millimeters, or 5 to 15 square millimeters.

[0079] Multiple air intakes may be spaced apart around the aerosol generating element.

[0080] In some embodiments where the chamber extends along a central longitudinal axis, the multiple air intakes are located at different positions along the central longitudinal axis of the chamber. In some embodiments where the chamber extends along a central longitudinal axis, the multiple air intakes are located at the same position along the central longitudinal axis of the chamber.

[0081] In some preferred embodiments, all air intakes have the same cross-sectional shape. In some preferred embodiments, all air intakes have the same cross-sectional area. The air intakes may have different cross-sectional shapes. The air intakes may have different cross-sectional areas.

[0082] In some preferred embodiments, at least one air intake comprises two air intakes, a first air intake and a second air intake. The first air intake may be configured to direct air into the chamber in a first direction, and the second air intake may be configured to direct air into the chamber in a second direction different from the first direction. The first air intake may be located on a first side of the chamber, and the second air intake may be located on a second side opposite to the first side.

[0083] In some embodiments where the chamber extends along a central longitudinal axis, the first air intake and the second air intake are located at the same position along the longitudinal axis. In some embodiments where the chamber extends along a central longitudinal axis, the first air intake is located at a first position along the longitudinal axis, and the second air intake is located at a second position along the longitudinal axis, different from the first position.

[0084] At least one air intake can be formed by an air passage. The air passage may have a length and a cross-sectional area. The air passage forming at least one air intake may extend between the outer surface of the aerosol generator and the surface defining the chamber.

[0085] An air passage forming at least one air intake may have a cross-section on a surface defining the chamber. An air passage forming at least one air intake may have a length. The length of the air passage may be greater than the dimensions of the cross-section of the air intake on the chamber surface. For example, if the air passage has a circular cross-section on the chamber surface, the length of the air passage may be greater than the diameter of the passage's cross-section on the chamber surface. Advantageously, by configuring the air passage forming the air intake such that its length is greater than its cross-section, the directionality of the air flowing through the air passage into the chamber can be improved.

[0086] If at least one air intake includes multiple air intakes, each air intake may be formed by a different air passage. An aerosol generator may have multiple air passages.

[0087] In some preferred embodiments, at least one air intake is configured to direct air into the chamber away from the aerosol generating element.

[0088] Preferably, at least one air intake is configured to direct air into the chamber in a direction that does not intersect with the aerosol generating element. At least one air intake may be configured to direct air into the chamber in a direction that is at least partially toward at least one air outlet. In some embodiments in which the chamber includes a mouth end and at least one air outlet is located at the mouth end, at least one air intake may be configured to direct air into the chamber in a direction that is at least partially toward the mouth end.

[0089] In embodiments where the chamber extends along the central longitudinal axis, at least one air intake may be positioned to direct air into the chamber in a direction not perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis. At least one air intake may be positioned to direct air into the chamber in a direction angled from the central longitudinal axis at an angle of 1 to 89 degrees, or 5 to 85 degrees, or 10 to 80 degrees, or 15 to 75 degrees, or 20 to 70 degrees, or 25 to 65 degrees, or 30 to 60 degrees.

[0090] The aerosol generator preferably has at least one air outlet. The at least one air outlet may be configured to direct air out of the chamber of the aerosol generator. If the aerosol generator has a chamber with a mouth end, the at least one air outlet may be located at the mouth end of the chamber.

[0091] At least one air outlet may have any suitable cross-sectional shape. For example, at least one air outlet may have one of the following cross-sections: circular, elliptical, square, rectangular, and triangular. At least one air outlet may have a polygonal cross-section.

[0092] At least one air outlet may have a total cross-sectional area of ​​2 to 30 square millimeters, or 2 to 25 square millimeters, or 5 to 20 square millimeters, or 5 to 20 square millimeters, or 5 to 15 square millimeters. Such a total cross-sectional area may allow at least one air outlet to direct a desired airflow out of the chamber.

[0093] At least one air outlet may include multiple air outlets. At least one air outlet may include any suitable number of air outlets. For example, at least one air outlet may include two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, or nine air outlets. At least one air outlet may include any suitable number of air outlets to provide a desired airflow rate out of the chamber. Multiple air outlets may have a total cross-sectional area of ​​0.5 to 30 square millimeters, or 2 to 25 square millimeters, or 5 to 20 square millimeters, or 5 to 20 square millimeters, or 5 to 15 square millimeters.

[0094] An aerosol generator may include a chamber between at least one air intake and at least one air outlet. The aerosol generator may further include an airflow path extending through the chamber between at least one air intake and at least one air outlet. The airflow path may extend through the chamber between at least one air intake and at least one air outlet via an aerosol generating element.

[0095] In some preferred embodiments, the aerosol generator includes an auxiliary element connected to the aerosol generating element.

[0096] The aerosol generator may further include at least one air intake extending through an auxiliary element. The at least one air intake may have any suitable cross-sectional shape. For example, the at least one air intake may have a circular, elliptical, square, rectangular, or triangular cross-sectional shape. The at least one air intake may have a polygonal cross-sectional shape. The at least one air intake may form a slot through the auxiliary element.

[0097] At least one air intake may include multiple air intakes. Multiple air intakes may include any suitable number of air intakes. For example, multiple air intakes may include two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, or nine air intakes. Multiple air intakes may be spaced apart around an auxiliary element. Preferably, the auxiliary element surrounds the aerosol generating element, and the multiple air intakes are spaced apart around the auxiliary element. In some embodiments, the multiple air intakes have different cross-sectional shapes. In some embodiments, the multiple air intakes have the same cross-sectional shape. In some embodiments, the multiple air intakes have different cross-sectional areas. In some embodiments, the multiple air intakes have the same cross-sectional area.

[0098] In some particularly preferred embodiments, the aerosol generator comprises a planar aerosol generating element and a planar auxiliary element connected to the planar aerosol generating element. In these particularly preferred embodiments, the planar aerosol generating element and the planar auxiliary element may extend substantially in the same plane.

[0099] In these particularly preferred embodiments, at least one air intake may be configured to direct air away from the plane. Preferably, at least one air intake may be configured to direct air in a direction perpendicular to the plane. At least one air intake may extend through a planar auxiliary element in a direction perpendicular to the plane. At least one air intake may be configured to direct air in a direction between the plane and a direction perpendicular to the plane. At least one air intake may extend through a planar auxiliary element in a direction between the plane and a direction perpendicular to the plane. At least one air intake may be configured to direct air in a direction directed at an angle of 1 to 89 degrees, or 5 to 85 degrees, or 10 to 80 degrees, or 15 to 75 degrees, or 20 to 70 degrees, or 25 to 65 degrees, or 30 to 60 degrees, or 65 to 85 degrees, or 70 to 80 degrees with respect to the plane.

[0100] Auxiliary elements may surround aerosol-generating elements. Planar auxiliary elements may surround planar aerosol-generating elements.

[0101] Auxiliary elements may include support elements. If the aerosol generator has side walls, the support elements may connect the aerosol generating element to the side walls. If the aerosol generator forms part of an aerosol generating device or cartridge, the support elements may connect the aerosol generating element to the housing of the aerosol generating device or cartridge. At least one air intake may extend through the support elements.

[0102] The support element preferably contains a thermal insulation material. Advantageously, by forming the support element from a thermal insulation material, heat transfer from the aerosol generating element to the support element can be minimized. The aerosol generating element preferably contains an electrical insulating material. The support element may be formed from a durable material. The support element may be formed from a liquid-impermeable material. The support element may be formed from a moldable plastic material such as polypropylene (PP) or polyethylene terephthalate (PET).

[0103] The support element may have any suitable shape and size. The support element may be planar. If the aerosol generating element is planar, the planar support element may extend in the same plane as the planar aerosol generating element. The support element may surround the aerosol generating element.

[0104] If the aerosol generating element includes a mesh element, the auxiliary element may include an actuation element. The actuation element may be connected to the mesh aerosol generating element. The actuation element may be configured to vibrate the mesh aerosol generating element. The actuation element is preferably a piezoelectric transducer. At least one air intake may extend through the actuation element.

[0105] It is preferable that the mesh aerosol generating element is planar, the operating element is planar, and the operating element extends in the same plane as the mesh aerosol generating element. The operating element may surround the mesh aerosol generating element.

[0106] Auxiliary elements may include support elements and actuation elements. Actuation elements may be connected to aerosol generating elements. Support elements may be connected to actuation elements. Actuation elements may surround aerosol generating elements. Support elements may surround actuation elements. Support elements may surround both actuation elements and aerosol generating elements.

[0107] In some preferred embodiments, at least one air intake extends through a support element. In some embodiments, the at least one air intake comprises a plurality of air intakes, at least one of which extends through a support element, and at least one of which extends through an operating element.

[0108] In some preferred embodiments, the auxiliary elements are planar elements including a planar actuation element and a planar support element. In these preferred embodiments, the aerosol generating element may be planar, and the planar auxiliary elements may extend in the same plane as the planar aerosol generating element. The aerosol generating element may have a substantially circular cross-section, the actuation element may form a ring surrounding the aerosol generating element, and the support element may form a ring surrounding the actuation element.

[0109] The present disclosure provides an aerosol generating system. The aerosol generating system comprises the aerosol generator described above. The aerosol generating system may further comprise a storage unit for holding a liquid aerosol forming substrate. The aerosol generating system may further comprise a liquid supply element configured to supply liquid from the storage unit to the aerosol generating element.

[0110] The aerosol generating system may be a handheld aerosol generating system configured to allow the user to inhale the mouthpiece and draw out an aerosol through the mouth-side opening. The aerosol generating system may be comparable in size to a conventional cigar or cigarette. The aerosol generating system may have an overall length of approximately 30 mm to 150 mm. The aerosol generating system may have an outer diameter of approximately 5 mm to 30 mm.

[0111] The storage section is configured to hold an aerosol-forming substrate. In particular, the storage section is configured to hold a liquid aerosol-forming substrate. The storage section may have any suitable shape and size depending on the requirements of the aerosol generation system.

[0112] The aerosol generating system may include an aerosol-forming substrate. As used herein, the term "aerosol-forming substrate" refers to a substrate having the ability to release volatile compounds that can form aerosols. The volatile compounds may be released by heating the aerosol-forming substrate. Preferably, the aerosol generating system contains a liquid aerosol-forming substrate.

[0113] The aerosol-forming substrate may be a liquid at room temperature and atmospheric pressure. The aerosol-forming substrate may contain both liquid and solid components. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may contain nicotine. The nicotine-containing liquid aerosol-forming substrate may be a nicotine salt matrix. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may contain plant-derived materials. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may contain tobacco. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may contain tobacco-containing materials that contain volatile tobacco-flavored compounds released from the aerosol-forming substrate upon heating. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may contain homogenized tobacco materials. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may contain non-tobacco-containing materials. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may contain homogenized plant-derived materials.

[0114] The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may contain one or more aerosol-forming compounds. The aerosol-forming compounds are any suitable, well-known compounds or mixtures of compounds that facilitate the formation of a high-density, stable aerosol during use and are substantially resistant to thermal decomposition at the system's operating temperature. Examples of suitable aerosol-forming compounds include glycerin and propylene glycol. Suitable aerosol-forming compounds are well-known in the art and include, but are not limited to, polyhydric alcohols (e.g., triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol, glycerin), esters of polyhydric alcohols (e.g., glycerol monoacetate, diacetate, or triacetate), and aliphatic esters of monocarboxylic acids, dicarboxylic acids, or polycarboxylic acids (e.g., dimethyl dodecanediol, dimethyl tetradecanediol). The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may also contain water, a solvent, ethanol, plant extracts, and natural or artificial flavors.

[0115] The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may contain nicotine and at least one aerosol-forming agent. The aerosol-forming agent may be glycerin or propylene glycol. The aerosol-forming agent may contain both glycerin and propylene glycol. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may have a nicotine concentration of about 0.5% to about 10% (for example, about 2%).

[0116] The liquid supply element is arranged to supply the liquid aerosol-forming substrate to the aerosol-generating element. Preferably, the liquid supply element is arranged to supply the liquid aerosol-forming substrate from the storage unit to the aerosol-generating element.

[0117] The liquid supply element may be in fluid communication with the aerosol generating element. The liquid supply element may be in fluid communication with the storage unit. The liquid supply element may be configured to transport the aerosol forming substrate from the storage unit to the susceptor element.

[0118] The liquid supply element may include a capillary material. The capillary material is a material that has the ability to move liquid from one end to the other by capillary action. The capillary material may have a fibrous or spongy structure. Preferably, the capillary material includes bundles of capillaries. For example, the capillary material may include multiple fibers or threads or other microtubules. The fibers or threads may be generally aligned to carry the liquid aerosol-forming substrate toward the aerosol-generating element. In some embodiments, the capillary material may include a spongy or foamy material. The structure of the capillary material may form multiple small holes or tubes through which the liquid aerosol-forming substrate can be moved by capillary action. If the aerosol-generating element has gaps or openings, the capillary material may extend into the gaps or openings within the susceptor element. The aerosol-generating element may draw the liquid aerosol-forming substrate into the gaps or openings by capillary action. If the aerosol generating element forms part of the SAW atomizer and the aerosol generating element includes a substrate having an active surface, the liquid supply element may be arranged to supply liquid to the atomizing region of the active surface. The liquid supply element may include a pump.

[0119] In some embodiments, the storage section contains a retaining material for holding a liquid aerosol-forming substrate. The retaining material may be a foam material, a sponge material, or a fibrous collectible. The retaining material may be formed from a polymer or copolymer. In some embodiments, the retaining material is a spun polymer. The retaining material may be formed from any of the materials described above that are suitable for the liquid supply element.

[0120] When an aerosol generating system includes a liquid supply element and a retaining material, the liquid supply element and the retaining material may be formed from the same material or different materials. The retaining material may be in fluid communication with the aerosol generating element. The retaining material may be in contact with the aerosol generating element. The retaining material may be in fluid contact with the liquid supply element. The retaining material may be in contact with the liquid supply element.

[0121] The aerosol generation system may further include a power supply. The power supply may be connected to the aerosol generator to supply power to the aerosol generator. The power supply may be connected to the aerosol generation element to supply power to the aerosol generator.

[0122] The power source may be a DC power source. The power source may be a battery. The battery may be a lithium-based battery, such as a lithium cobalt battery, lithium iron phosphate battery, lithium titanate battery, or lithium polymer battery. The battery may be a nickel-metal hydride battery or a nickel-cadmium battery. The power source may be another form of charge storage device, such as a capacitor. The power source may be rechargeable and may be configured for numerous charge-discharge cycles. The power source may have a capacity that allows for the storage of sufficient energy for one or more user experiences of the aerosol generating system. For example, the power source may have a capacity that allows for continuous aerosol generation for about six minutes, or a multiple of six minutes, corresponding to the typical time it takes to smoke one conventional cigarette. In another embodiment, the power source may have a capacity that allows for a predetermined number of puffs or discontinuous startup of the atomizer assembly.

[0123] A power source may be configured to store forms of energy other than electrical energy. A power source may be configured to store and supply mechanical energy. Mechanical energy may be provided or generated by the user.

[0124] The aerosol generation system may further include a control circuit.

[0125] The control circuit may include a microprocessor. The microprocessor may be a programmable microprocessor, a microcontroller, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or other electronic circuit capable of providing control.

[0126] The control circuit may be connected to a power supply. The control circuit may be connected to an aerosol generator. The control circuit may be configured to control the supply of power from the power supply to the aerosol generator. In some embodiments, the control circuit is configured to control the supply of power from the power supply of the aerosol generator to the aerosol generating element. In some embodiments where the aerosol generator includes an actuator, the control circuit may be configured to supply power to the actuator. In some embodiments where the aerosol generator includes a transducer, the control circuit may be configured to supply power to the transducer. In some embodiments where the aerosol generator includes a liquid supply element, the control circuit may be configured to supply power to the liquid supply element. The control circuit may be configured to supply power to a pump contained within the liquid supply element. The control circuit may be configured to synchronize two or more components of the aerosol generation system. In some embodiments, the control circuit is configured to synchronize the aerosol generating element and the liquid supply element.

[0127] The control circuit may be configured to continuously supply power to the aerosol generator after the device is started, or it may be configured to supply power intermittently, such as after each smoke extraction. Power may be supplied to the aerosol generator in the form of current pulses, for example by pulse width modulation (PWM).

[0128] If the aerosol generator includes a mesh vibrated by an actuator, the control circuit may be configured to operate the actuator to vibrate the vibrable elements at a predetermined frequency. The predetermined frequency may be approximately 20 kHz to 1500 kHz, or approximately 50 kHz to 1000 kHz, or approximately 100 kHz to 500 kHz. This may provide a desired aerosol output rate and droplet size for a good user experience.

[0129] The aerosol generator may include a vibrating chamber, and the control circuit may be configured to operate an actuator to excite vibrations in an element capable of vibrating at a predetermined frequency. The predetermined frequency may be about 20 kHz to about 1500 kHz, or about 50 kHz to about 1000 kHz, or about 100 kHz to about 500 kHz. This may provide a desired aerosol output rate and a desired droplet size for a good user experience.

[0130] If the aerosol generator includes a surface acoustic wave atomizer (SAW atomizer), the control circuit may be configured to operate the SAW atomizer to generate surface acoustic waves at a predetermined frequency. The predetermined frequency may be approximately 20 MHz or higher, for example, 20 MHz to approximately 100 MHz, or approximately 20 MHz to approximately 80 MHz. This can provide the desired aerosol output rate and droplet size for a good user experience.

[0131] When the aerosol generating element is a susceptor element, the aerosol generating device may include an induction heating assembly. The induction heating assembly may include at least one inductor coil. In these embodiments, a power supply may be connected to at least one inductor coil to supply power to at least one inductor coil. At least one inductor coil may be connected to a control circuit. The control circuit may be configured to supply alternating current to at least one inductor coil to generate an alternating magnetic field. The susceptor element may be arranged so as to be passed through at least one inductor coil by the alternating magnetic field so that the susceptor element is heated by the alternating magnetic field. The control circuit may be configured to supply power to the inductor coil continuously after the device is started, or it may be configured to supply power intermittently, such as with each smoke extraction. Power may be supplied to the inductor coil in the form of current pulses, for example by pulse width modulation (PWM).

[0132] The control circuit may include a DC / AC inverter which may include a Class D or Class E power amplifier. The control circuit may also include further electronic components. For example, in some embodiments, the control circuit may include a sensor, a switch, or a display element.

[0133] An aerosol generation system may comprise an aerosol generator and a cartridge configured to be connected to the aerosol generator. The cartridge may comprise an aerosol generator. The cartridge may further comprise a storage section for holding a liquid aerosol-forming substrate. The cartridge may further comprise a liquid supply element. The aerosol generator may comprise a power supply and a control circuit.

[0134] The aerosol generator may include a housing. The housing may be elongated. The housing may contain any suitable material or combination of materials. Examples of suitable materials include metals, alloys, plastics, or composite materials containing one or more of these materials, or thermoplastic resins suitable for food or pharmaceutical applications, such as polypropylene, polyetheretherketone (PEEK), and polyethylene. The material is preferably light and not brittle.

[0135] The aerosol generator housing may define a cavity for receiving a cartridge. The aerosol generator may have one or more air intakes. One or more air intakes may allow ambient air to be drawn into the cavity.

[0136] The aerosol generator may have a connecting end configured to connect to a cartridge. The connecting end may include a cavity for receiving the cartridge.

[0137] The aerosol generator may have a distal end opposite to the connection end. The distal end may include an electrical connector configured to connect the aerosol generator to an electrical connector of an external power supply in order to charge the power supply of the aerosol generator.

[0138] According to this disclosure, a cartridge for an aerosol generating system is provided. The cartridge may comprise an aerosol generator as described herein. The cartridge may further comprise a storage section for holding a liquid aerosol-forming substrate. The cartridge may be disposable. The cartridge may further comprise a liquid supply element configured to supply liquid from the storage section to an aerosol generating element.

[0139] In some embodiments, the aerosol generator is integrally formed with the cartridge. In other embodiments, the aerosol generator is separate from the cartridge and is located within the cartridge.

[0140] The cartridge may include a housing. The housing may be formed from a durable material. The housing may be formed from a liquid-impermeable material. The housing may be formed from a moldable plastic material such as polypropylene (PP) or polyethylene terephthalate (PET).

[0141] The aerosol generator may be housed within the housing. The aerosol generator may be connected to the housing. In some embodiments, the cartridge housing may form one or more walls of the aerosol generator. At least one air intake of the aerosol generator may extend through the cartridge housing. At least one air outlet may extend through the cartridge housing.

[0142] The housing may define a portion of the storage section. The housing may define the storage section. The housing and the storage section may be formed integrally. Alternatively, the storage section may be formed separately from the outer siding and disposed within the outer housing.

[0143] The cartridge may have a mouth end through which the generated aerosol can be drawn out by the user. The cartridge may also have a connection end configured to connect to an aerosol generator.

[0144] If the aerosol generator comprises a substantially planar aerosol generating element, the first side of the aerosol generating element may face the mouth end of the cartridge, and the second side of the aerosol generating element may face the connection end. In some embodiments, the planar aerosol generating element extends in a plane substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the cartridge, extending between the mouth end and the connection end. If the planar aerosol generating element extends in a plane substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the cartridge, the first and second sides of the aerosol generating element face opposing sides of the cartridge, rather than the mouth end and connection end of the cartridge.

[0145] The cartridge may define at least one air intake for the aerosol generator. At least one air intake may be located at or around the connection end of the cartridge. The cartridge may define a mouth-end opening. At least one air outlet for the aerosol generator may be the mouth-end opening of the cartridge. The user may be able to draw the generated aerosol out of the cartridge through the mouth-end opening. The cartridge may define an enclosed airflow passage from the air intake of the aerosol generator to the mouth-end opening. The enclosed airflow passage may extend from the air intake, through the aerosol generating element, to the mouth-end opening.

[0146] The enclosed airflow passage may pass through the storage section. For example, the storage section may have an annular cross-section defining an internal passage, and the airflow passage may extend through the internal passage of the storage section.

[0147] Naturally, any features described herein in relation to one embodiment of an aerosol generator, aerosol generating system, aerosol generating device, or cartridge may also be applicable to other embodiments of an aerosol generator, aerosol generating system, aerosol generating device, or cartridge according to this disclosure. Features described in relation to one embodiment may equally be applicable to another embodiment according to this disclosure. Naturally, the aerosol generator according to this disclosure may also be provided as an aerosol generating device without a cartridge. Therefore, any features described herein in relation to a cartridge may equally be applicable to an aerosol generating device. [Examples]

[0148] The present invention is defined in the claims. However, a non-exclusive list of non-limiting embodiments is provided below. One or more features of these embodiments may be combined with one or more features of other embodiments, forms, or aspects described herein.

[0149] Example 1 An aerosol generator configured to generate aerosols from an aerosol-forming substrate, an aerosol generating element configured to aerosolize an aerosol-forming substrate, At least one air intake, At least one air outlet, A chamber between an air intake and at least one air outlet, wherein an aerosol generating element is disposed within the chamber and configured to release an aerosolized aerosol-forming substrate into the chamber, An aerosol generator comprising an aerosol generating element and an airflow path extending through a chamber between an air intake and at least one air outlet. Example 2 An aerosol generator according to Example 1, wherein at least one air intake is configured to direct air around the outer circumference of the chamber. Example 3 An aerosol generator according to Example 1 or 2, wherein at least one air intake is positioned tangentially to direct air into the chamber. Example 4 The chamber is an aerosol generator according to one of Examples 1, 2, or 3, extending along the central longitudinal axis. Example 5 The aerosol generator according to Example 4 has a chamber that is substantially symmetrical with respect to the central longitudinal axis. Example 6 An aerosol generator according to Example 4 or 5, wherein at least one air intake is configured to direct air into the chamber in a direction that does not intersect the central longitudinal axis of the chamber. Example 7 An aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 4, 5, or 6, wherein at least one air intake is configured to direct air into the chamber in a direction about the central longitudinal axis of the chamber. Example 8 The aerosol generator according to Example 1 comprises a side wall that surrounds an aerosol generating element and has a surface that defines the surface of the chamber. Example 9 An aerosol generator according to Example 8, wherein at least one air intake extends through the side wall. Example 10 The sidewall surface is a curved surface, defining the curved surface of the chamber, in an aerosol generator according to Example 8 or 9. Example 11 An aerosol generator according to Example 10, wherein at least one air intake is configured to direct air into the chamber tangentially to the curved surface of the chamber. Example 12 At least one air intake is located tangentially to the curved surface, 0 degrees to 80 degrees, or 0 degrees to 70 degrees, or 0 degrees to 60 degrees, or 0 degrees to 50 degrees, or 0 degrees to 40 degrees, or 0 to 30 degrees, or 0 to 20 degrees, or An aerosol generator according to Example 10, configured to direct air into the chamber in directions angled between 0 and 10 degrees. Example 13 An aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 8 to 12, wherein the chamber extends along a central longitudinal axis, and at least one air intake and the surface of the chamber are configured to direct air around the central longitudinal axis of the chamber. Example 14 The side wall surface defines a tapered chamber, an aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 8-13. Example 15 Aerosol generator according to Examples 8-14, wherein the chamber includes a mouth end and an aerosol generating end opposite to the mouth end, at least one air outlet is located at the mouth end, and the width of the chamber at the mouth end is less than the width of the chamber at the aerosol generating end. Example 16 The aerosol generating element is located at the aerosol generating end of the chamber, in the aerosol generator according to Example 15. Example 17 The side walls define the circular conical chamber surface of the aerosol generator according to one of Examples 8 to 16. Example 18 The side walls define the elliptical conical chamber surface of the aerosol generator according to one of Examples 8 to 16. Example 19 An aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 8 to 13, wherein the surface of the side wall defines the surface of a circular cylindrical chamber. Example 20 The side wall surface defines the elliptical cylindrical chamber surface of an aerosol generator according to one of Examples 8 to 13. Example 21 The aerosol generating element is a non-thermal aerosol generating element, and the aerosol generator is one of the examples 1 to 20. Example 22 The non-thermal aerosol generating element is an aerosol generator according to Example 21, which includes a mesh element having multiple nozzles. Example 23 An aerosol generator according to Example 22, wherein the mesh aerosol generating element is configured such that when a vibrable mesh element vibrates, the aerosol-forming substrate is aerosolized as it passes through the nozzle. Example 24 An aerosol generator according to Example 23, further comprising an actuator connected to a mesh and configured to vibrate a mesh aerosol generating element. Example 25 Aerosol generators are A cavity containing a liquid that will be aerosolized, A liquid inlet for supplying a liquid to be atomized into a cavity, Elastically deformable elements, Mesh aerosol generating element, A vibration chamber comprising an actuator arranged to vibrate an elastically deformable element, An aerosol generator according to Example 22, in which vibration of an elastically deformable element by an actuator changes the pressure inside the cavity, and the liquid contained inside the cavity is discharged from the cavity through the nozzle of a mesh aerosol generating element. Example 26 The actuator is a piezoelectric transducer in the aerosol generator according to Example 24 or 25. Example 27 The aerosol generating element is part of a surface acoustic wave atomizer (SAW atomizer), as shown in Example 21 of the aerosol generator. Example 28 The SAW atomizer is A substrate including an active surface, To generate surface acoustic waves on the active surface of the substrate, the system comprises at least one transducer positioned on the active surface of the substrate, The aerosol generating element is an aerosol generator according to Example 27, which forms a substrate. Example 29 An aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 1 to 28, wherein at least one air intake is configured to direct air into the chamber away from the aerosol generating element. Example 30 An aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 1 to 29, wherein at least one air intake is configured to direct air into the chamber in a direction that does not intersect with the aerosol generating element. Example 31 An aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 1 to 30, wherein at least one air intake is configured to direct air into the chamber in a direction at least partially toward at least one air outlet. Example 32 An aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 1 to 31, wherein the chamber includes a mouth end and an aerosol generating end opposite to the mouth end, at least one air outlet is located at the mouth end, and an aerosol generating element is located at the aerosol generating end. Example 33 An aerosol generator according to Example 32, wherein at least one air intake is positioned toward the aerosol generation end of the chamber. Example 34 An aerosol generator according to Example 32 or 33, further comprising a side wall that surrounds an aerosol generating element and extends between the aerosol generating element at the aerosol generating end and at least one air outlet at the mouth end. Example 35 An aerosol generator according to Example 34, having at least one air intake extending through the side wall. Example 36 An aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 32 to 35, wherein at least one air intake is configured to direct air into the chamber toward the mouth end of the chamber. Example 37 The aerosol generating element is an aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 1 to 36, defining at least a portion of the surface of the chamber. Example 38 An aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 1 to 37, wherein the chamber extends along a central longitudinal axis, and at least one air intake is positioned to direct air into the chamber in a direction not perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis. Example 39 The chamber extends along the central longitudinal axis, and at least one air intake is located from the central longitudinal axis. 1 degree to 89 degrees, or 5 degrees to 85 degrees, or 10 to 80 degrees, or 15 to 75 degrees, or 20 to 70 degrees, or 25 degrees to 65 degrees, or An aerosol generator according to one of Examples 1 to 37, which is arranged to direct air into the chamber in a direction angled at an angle of 30 to 60 degrees. Example 40 The aerosol generating element is a planar aerosol generating element, and the aerosol generator is one of the examples 1 to 39. Example 41 The planar aerosol generating element extends substantially in a plane, in the aerosol generator according to Example 40. Example 42 An aerosol generator according to Example 41, wherein the chamber extends along the central longitudinal axis, and the plane of the planar aerosol generating element is perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis of the chamber. Example 43 An aerosol generator according to Example 41 or 42, wherein at least one air intake is positioned to direct air into the chamber away from the plane of a planar aerosol generating element. Example 44 An aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 41 to 43, wherein at least one air intake is arranged to direct the air in a direction between a planar aerosol generating element and at least one air outlet. Example 45 At least one air intake is located away from the plane of the planar aerosol generating element. 1 degree to 89 degrees, or 5 degrees to 85 degrees, or 10 to 80 degrees, or 15 to 75 degrees, or 20 to 70 degrees, or 25 degrees to 65 degrees, or 30 to 60 degrees, or 65 degrees to 85 degrees, or An aerosol generator according to one of Examples 41 to 44, which is arranged to direct air in a direction angled at an angle of 70 to 80 degrees. Example 46 An aerosol generator according to Example 41 or 42, wherein at least one air intake is positioned to direct the air in a direction parallel to the plane of a planar aerosol generating element. Example 47 At least one air intake, Circular cross-section, Elliptical cross-section, A square cross-section, A rectangular cross-section, or An aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 1 to 46, having one of the triangular cross-sections. Example 48 An aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 1 to 47, wherein at least one air intake has a polygonal cross-section. Example 49 At least one air intake, 2 square millimeters to 30 square millimeters, or 2 square millimeters to 25 square millimeters, or 5 square millimeters to 20 square millimeters, or 5 square millimeters to 20 square millimeters, or An aerosol generator having a total cross-sectional area of ​​5 square millimeters to 15 square millimeters, according to any one of Examples 1 to 48. Example 50 An aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 1 to 49, wherein at least one air intake comprises two air intakes, a first air intake and a second air intake. Example 51 An aerosol generator according to Example 50, wherein the first air intake is configured to direct air into the chamber in a first direction, and the second air intake is configured to direct air into the chamber in a second direction different from the first direction. Example 52 An aerosol generator according to Example 50 or 51, wherein a first air intake is configured to direct air into the chamber in a first direction, and a second air intake is configured to direct air into the chamber in a second direction opposite to the first direction. Example 53 An aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 50 to 52, wherein the first air intake is located on the first side of the chamber, and the second air intake is located on the second side opposite to the first air intake. Example 54 An aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 50-53, wherein the chamber extends along the central longitudinal axis, and the first and second air intakes are located at the same position along the longitudinal axis. Example 55 An aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 50 to 53, wherein the chamber extends along the central longitudinal axis, a first air intake is located at a first position along the longitudinal axis, and a second air intake is located at a second position along the longitudinal axis, different from the first position. Example 56 An aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 1 to 49, comprising at least one air intake and multiple air intakes. Example 57 An aerosol generator according to Example 56, in which multiple air intakes are spaced apart around the aerosol generating element. Example 58 An aerosol generator according to Example 56 or 57, wherein the chamber extends along the central longitudinal axis, and multiple air intakes are located at different positions along the central longitudinal axis of the chamber. Example 59 An aerosol generator according to Example 56 or 57, wherein the chamber extends along the central longitudinal axis, and multiple air intakes are located at the same position along the central longitudinal axis of the chamber. Example 60 An aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 50 to 59, wherein all air intakes have the same cross-sectional shape. Example 61 The air intake port is an aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 50 to 60, having the same cross-sectional area. Example 62 The air intake port is an aerosol generator according to one of Examples 50 to 59, having a different cross-sectional shape. Example 63 The air intake port is an aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 50 to 59, having a different cross-sectional area. Example 64 The total cross-sectional area of ​​the air intake is 2 square millimeters to 30 square millimeters, or 2 square millimeters to 25 square millimeters, or 5 square millimeters to 20 square millimeters, or 5 square millimeters to 20 square millimeters, or An aerosol generator according to one of Examples 1 to 63, with a surface area of ​​5 square millimeters to 15 square millimeters. Example 65 An aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 1 to 64, wherein at least one air intake is formed by an air passage. Example 66 An aerosol generator according to Example 65, wherein an air passage forming at least one air intake extends between the outer surface of the aerosol generator and the surface defining the chamber. Example 67 An aerosol generator according to Example 65 or 66, wherein an air passage forming at least one air intake has length and cross-section on a surface defining the chamber, and the length of the air passage is greater than the dimensions of the cross-section of the air intake on the surface of the chamber. Example 68 an aerosol generation system, A storage section for holding the liquid aerosol forming substrate, An aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 1 to 67, An aerosol generation system comprising a liquid supply element configured to supply liquid from a storage unit to an aerosol generation element. Example 69 A power supply connected to the aerosol generator to provide power to the aerosol generator, An aerosol generation system according to Embodiment 68, further comprising a control circuit configured to control the supply of power from a power source to an aerosol generator. Example 70 A cartridge including a storage unit, an aerosol generator, and a liquid supply element, An aerosol generating system according to Example 69, further comprising: an apparatus configured to receive a cartridge, and including a power supply and a control circuit. Example 71 A cartridge for an aerosol generation system, A storage section for holding the liquid aerosol forming substrate, An aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 1 to 67, A cartridge comprising a liquid supply element configured to supply liquid from a storage section to an aerosol generating element. Example 72 An aerosol generator configured to generate aerosols from an aerosol-forming substrate, A planar aerosol generating element configured to aerosolize an aerosol-forming substrate, A planar auxiliary element connected to the aerosol generating element, It comprises at least one air intake port extending through a planar auxiliary element, An aerosol generator in which a planar aerosol generating element and a planar auxiliary element extend substantially in the same plane, and at least one air intake is configured to direct the air away from the plane. Example 73 An aerosol generator according to Example 72, in which a planar auxiliary element surrounds a planar aerosol generating element. Example 74 The aerosol generating element is an aerosol generator according to Example 72 or 73, which includes a mesh element having multiple nozzles. Example 75 An aerosol generator according to Example 74, wherein the planar auxiliary elements include planar actuator elements configured to vibrate a mesh aerosol generating element. Example 76 An aerosol generator according to Example 74, wherein the planar auxiliary elements include a planar support element and a planar actuator element, the planar actuator element being connected to a mesh aerosol generating element and configured to vibrate the mesh aerosol generating element. Example 77 An aerosol generator according to Example 76, wherein at least one air intake extends through a planar support element. Example 78 An aerosol generator according to Example 76 or 77, wherein a planar actuator element surrounds a mesh aerosol generating element, and a planar support element surrounds the planar actuator element. Example 79 An aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 75-78, wherein at least one air intake extends through a planar actuator element. Example 80 The planar actuator element is an aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 75 to 79, which includes a piezoelectric transducer. Example 81 An aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 72-80, wherein at least one air intake forms a slot through a planar auxiliary element. Example 82 An aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 72 to 81, wherein at least one air intake has a cross-section of one of the following: circular, elliptical, square, rectangular, or triangular. Example 83 An aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 72 to 81, wherein at least one air intake has a polygonal cross-section. Example 84 An aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 72 to 83, wherein at least one air intake is configured to direct the air in a direction perpendicular to the plane. Example 85 An aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 72 to 83, wherein at least one air intake is configured to direct air in a direction between a plane and a direction perpendicular to the plane. Example 86 At least one air intake is, 1 degree to 89 degrees, or 5 degrees to 85 degrees, or 10 to 80 degrees, or 15 to 75 degrees, or 20 to 70 degrees, or 25 degrees to 65 degrees, or 30 to 60 degrees, or 65 degrees to 85 degrees, or An aerosol generator according to one of Examples 72 to 83, configured to direct air in a direction angled at 70 to 80 degrees. Example 87 An aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 72 to 836, comprising at least one air intake and multiple air intakes. Example 88 An aerosol generator according to Example 87, in which multiple air intakes are spaced apart around an auxiliary element. Example 89 An aerosol generator according to either Example 87 or 88, wherein multiple air intakes have different cross-sectional shapes. Example 90 An aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 87-89, with multiple air intakes having different cross-sectional areas. Example 91 An aerosol generator according to Example 87 or 88, wherein multiple air intakes have the same cross-section. Example 92 an aerosol generation system, A storage section for holding the liquid aerosol forming substrate, An aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 72 to 91, An aerosol generation system comprising a liquid supply element configured to supply liquid from a storage unit to an aerosol generation element. Example 93 A power supply connected to the aerosol generator to provide power to the aerosol generator, An aerosol generation system according to Example 92, further comprising a control circuit configured to control the supply of power from a power source to an aerosol generator. Example 94 A cartridge including a storage unit, an aerosol generator, and a liquid supply element, An aerosol generating system according to Example 93, further comprising: an apparatus configured to receive a cartridge, and including a power supply and a control circuit. Example 95 A cartridge for an aerosol generation system, A storage section for holding the liquid aerosol forming substrate, An aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 72 to 91, A cartridge comprising a liquid supply element configured to supply liquid from a storage section to an aerosol generating element. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0150] Here, we will further describe the examples with reference to the following figures.

[0151] [Figure 1] Figure 1 shows a schematic diagram of an aerosol generator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] Figure 2a shows a cross-section of the aerosol generator chamber along line AA in Figure 1. Figure 2b shows a cross-section of the aerosol generator chamber along line AA according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] Figures 3a to 3d show a cross-section of an aerosol generator chamber along line AA according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] Figure 4a shows a schematic diagram of an aerosol generator according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 4b shows a schematic diagram of an aerosol generator according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] Figure 5a shows a schematic diagram of an aerosol generator according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 5b shows a schematic diagram of an aerosol generator according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] Figures 6a to 6c show plan views of an aerosol generating element connected to an auxiliary element according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] Figure 7 shows a schematic diagram of an aerosol generation system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the aerosol generation system comprising a cartridge having the aerosol generator shown in Figure 1 and an aerosol generating device connected to the cartridge. [Figure 8] Figure 8 shows a vibrating chamber including an aerosol generating element according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] Figures 9a to 9b show schematic diagrams of an embodiment of a surface acoustic wave atomizer (SAW atomizer) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] Figure 10a shows a schematic diagram of an aerosol generator according to another embodiment of the present invention. Figure 10b shows a schematic diagram of an aerosol generator according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0152] Figure 1 shows a schematic diagram of an aerosol generator 1 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0153] The aerosol generator 1 comprises a non-thermal aerosol generating element 2 configured to aerosolize an aerosol-forming substrate by means other than heating. In this embodiment, the aerosol generating element 2 is a mesh element having a passage through which a liquid aerosol-forming substrate can pass and be aerosolized when the mesh element vibrates. An actuator in the form of a piezoelectric transducer (not shown) is connected to the mesh aerosol generating element and is configured to vibrate the aerosol generating element to aerosolize the liquid aerosol-forming substrate in contact with the aerosol generating element.

[0154] The aerosol generator 1 further comprises a pair of air intake ports 4 and an air outlet 6, which are arranged on opposing sides of the aerosol generator. A chamber 8 is formed between the pair of air intake ports 4 and the air outlet 6. The aerosol generating element 2 is disposed within the chamber 8 and is configured to release the aerosolized aerosol-forming substrate into the chamber 8. The airflow path extends through the chamber between the air intake ports 4 and at least one air outlet 6 via the aerosol generating element 2. The airflow path is indicated by the dashed arrow shown in Figure 1.

[0155] Chamber 8 has a mouth end and an aerosol generation end on the opposite side of the mouth end. The air outlet 6 is located at the mouth end of Chamber 8. The aerosol generation element 2 is located at the aerosol generation end of Chamber 8. The main surface of the aerosol generation element defines the aerosol generation end of Chamber 8. The side wall 10 surrounds the aerosol generation element 2, and the inner surface of the side wall 10 defines the side of Chamber 8 between the mouth end and the aerosol generation end. The air intake 4 extends through the side wall 10, is located close to the aerosol generation element 2, and faces the aerosol generation end.

[0156] The side wall 10 has a curved inner surface that defines the curved surface of the chamber 8. In this embodiment, the inner surface of the side wall 10 defines a substantially circular cross-sectional shape and provides the cavity 8 with a substantially circular cross-sectional shape along its length, as shown in Figure 2a, a cross-sectional view through the aerosol generator 1 along line AA. The side wall 10 also tapers from the aerosol generating end to the mouth end so that the inner surface of the side wall 10 defines a substantially circular cone chamber 8. The chamber 8 extends along the central longitudinal axis shown by the dotted line BB in Figure 1a and is substantially rotationally symmetric about the central longitudinal axis.

[0157] The aerosol generating element 2 is a planar element and extends substantially in a plane. In this embodiment, the plane of the aerosol generating element 2 is substantially perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis of the chamber 8. The aerosol generating element 2 is centered on the central longitudinal axis of the chamber 8, and the main surface of the aerosol generating element 2 faces the air outlet 6. The aerosol generating element 2 is thin, has a thickness substantially less than its diameter, and has a substantially circular shape.

[0158] As shown in Figure 2a, the air intakes 4 are positioned to direct air into the chamber 8 from opposing sides of the chamber 8. Each of the air intakes 4 extends through the side wall 10 in a tangential direction to the curved inner surface of the side wall 10. In this way, the air intakes 4 are oriented to direct air into the chamber 8 tangentially to the curved inner surface of the side wall 10. In other words, the air intakes 4 direct air into the chamber along the curved inner surface of the side wall 10. The orientation of the air intakes 4 and the curved surface of the side wall 10 cause the air entering the chamber 8 through the air intakes 4 to swirl along the outer circumference of the chamber 8, as indicated by the dashed arrows in Figure 2a. The swirling air along the outer circumference of the chamber directs the aerosol-forming substrate aerosolized from the aerosol-generating element 2 away from the side wall 10, thereby reducing the accumulation of aerosol-forming substrate on the side wall 10 and potentially increasing the proportion of aerosol-forming substrate that exits the chamber through the air outlet 6 at the mouth end of the chamber 8.

[0159] Figure 2b shows a cross-sectional view through an aerosol generator according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. The aerosol generator in Figure 2b is similar to the aerosol generator 1 shown in Figures 1 and 2a, and the same reference numerals are used to specify similar features. The aerosol generator in Figure 2b differs from the aerosol generator 1 in Figures 1 and 2a in that the aerosol generator has four air intakes 4 that are evenly spaced around the periphery of the side wall 10.

[0160] Figures 3a to 3d show cross-sectional views through an aerosol generator according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0161] Figures 3a and 3b show aerosol generators substantially similar to those shown in Figures 2a and 2b, respectively. The aerosol generators shown in Figures 3a and 3b differ from those shown in Figures 2a and 2b in that the air intake extends into the chamber 8. The air intake of the aerosol generators shown in Figures 3a and 3b includes an air passage of length. Increasing the length of the air passage improves the directionality of the air entering the chamber.

[0162] Figures 3c and 3d show aerosol generators substantially similar to those shown in Figures 2a and 2b, respectively. The aerosol generators shown in Figures 3c and 3d differ from those shown in Figures 2a and 2b in that the inner surface of the side wall 10 defines a substantially elliptical cross-sectional shape, providing the cavity 8 with a substantially elliptical cross-sectional shape along its length. In these embodiments, the inner surface of the side wall 10 defines a substantially elliptic conical chamber 8.

[0163] Figures 4a and 4b show schematic diagrams of aerosol generators 1 according to other embodiments of the present disclosure. The aerosol generators of Figures 4a and 4b are similar to the aerosol generator 1 of Figures 1 and 2a, and similar reference numerals are used to specify similar features.

[0164] The aerosol generator 1 shown in Figure 4a differs from the aerosol generator 1 shown in Figures 1 and 2a in that the aerosol generating element 2 is surrounded by an auxiliary element 12. Multiple air intakes 14 extend through the auxiliary element 12 and are evenly spaced around the periphery of the auxiliary element 12. In this embodiment, the auxiliary element 12 is a support element that connects the aerosol generating element 2 to the side wall 10 of the aerosol generator 1. The multiple air intakes 14 extending through the auxiliary element 12 are configured to direct air into the chamber 8 away from the plane of the aerosol generating element 2. In this embodiment, the multiple air intakes 14 are oriented to direct air into the chamber 8 toward the mouth end of the chamber and the air outlet 6 in a direction substantially parallel to the central longitudinal axis of the chamber. The side wall 10 also includes an additional air intake 16 below the aerosol generating element 2, allowing ambient air to be drawn into the aerosol generator 1 through the side wall and then into the chamber 8 through the air intake 14 of the auxiliary element 12.

[0165] The aerosol generator 1 shown in Figure 4b is substantially the same as the aerosol generator 1 shown in Figure 4a, except that the side wall 10 of the aerosol generator 1 shown in Figure 4b does not taper, but maintains a constant diameter along the length of the aerosol generator. Therefore, the inner surface of the side wall 10 of the aerosol generator 1 shown in Figure 4b defines a circular cylindrical chamber 8.

[0166] Figures 5a and 5b show schematic diagrams of aerosol generators 1 according to other embodiments of the present disclosure. The aerosol generators of Figures 5a and 5b are similar to the aerosol generator 1 of Figure 4a, and similar reference numerals are used to specify similar features.

[0167] The aerosol generator 1 shown in Figure 5a differs from the aerosol generator 1 shown in Figure 4a in that the chamber 8 tapers inward at an increasing rate or angle from the aerosol generation end to the mouth end, resulting in the inner surface of the side wall 10 being narrower at the mouth end than at the aerosol generation end, thus defining a substantially dome-shaped chamber 8. The increasing taper angle of the side wall 10 with respect to the central longitudinal axis of the chamber 8 causes the inner surface of the side wall 10 to define the concave surface of the dome-shaped chamber 8.

[0168] The aerosol generator 1 shown in Figure 5b differs from the aerosol generator 1 shown in Figure 4a in that the chamber 8 tapers inward at a decreasing rate or angle from the aerosol generation end to the mouth end, resulting in the inner surface of the side wall 10 defining a substantially horn-shaped chamber 8, which is narrower at the mouth end than at the aerosol generation end. The decrease in the taper angle of the side wall 10 with respect to the central longitudinal axis of the chamber 8 defines the convex surface of the horn-shaped chamber 8 on the inner surface of the side wall 10.

[0169] Figures 6a to 6c show plan views of the aerosol generating element 2 connected to the auxiliary element 12 according to embodiments of the present disclosure. In each of these embodiments, the aerosol generating element 2 is a planar mesh element configured to be vibrated to aerosolize a liquid aerosol-forming substrate.

[0170] Figure 6a shows a circular mesh aerosol generating element 2 surrounded by an auxiliary element 12. Both the mesh aerosol generating element 2 and the auxiliary element 12 are planar and extend in the same plane. In this embodiment, the auxiliary element 12 is a piezoelectric transducer disposed to vibrate the mesh aerosol generating element 12. The piezoelectric transducer includes a plurality of air intakes 14 evenly spaced around the piezoelectric transducer. The air intakes have a circular cross-section and are configured to direct air away from the plane of the aerosol generating element 2 and the auxiliary element 12.

[0171] Figure 6b shows a circular mesh aerosol generating element 2 surrounded by an auxiliary element 12, which is substantially similar to that shown in Figure 6a. The auxiliary element 12 shown in Figure 6b differs from that shown in Figure 6a in that it is a rectangular slot through which multiple air intakes 14 extend.

[0172] Figure c shows a circular mesh aerosol generating element 2 surrounded by an auxiliary element 12. Both the mesh aerosol generating element 2 and the auxiliary element 12 are planar and extend in the same plane. In this embodiment, the auxiliary element 12 includes a piezoelectric transducer 12a disposed to vibrate the mesh aerosol generating element 12, and a support element 12b. The piezoelectric transducer 12a is connected to and surrounds the aerosol generating element 2. The support element 12b is connected to and surrounds the piezoelectric transducer 12a. The support element 12b includes a plurality of air intakes 14 evenly spaced around the periphery of the support element 12b. The air intakes 14 have a circular cross-section and are configured to direct air away from the plane of the aerosol generating element 2 and the auxiliary element 12.

[0173] Figure 7 shows a schematic diagram of the aerosol generation system 20 according to this disclosure. The aerosol generation system 20 comprises an aerosol generator 22 and a cartridge 24 connected to the aerosol generator 22.

[0174] Cartridge 24 comprises an aerosol generator 1 substantially similar to the aerosol generator 1 shown in Figures 1 and 2a, and similar reference numerals are used to specify similar features. Cartridge 24 further comprises a housing 26, a liquid storage section 28 for holding a liquid aerosol forming substrate, and a liquid supply element 29 for fluidly connecting the liquid storage section 28 to the aerosol generator 1.

[0175] The aerosol generator 1 is integrally formed with the housing 26 of the cartridge 24 such that the side wall 10 of the aerosol generator is formed by the housing 26 of the cartridge 24. The air intake 4 extends through the housing 26 of the cartridge so that ambient air can be drawn through the air intake 4 and through the housing 26 into the chamber. The air outlet 6 at the mouth end of the chamber 8 forms the mouth end opening of the cartridge 24 through which aerosol is delivered to the user. An airflow path is formed between the air intake 4 and the mouth end opening 6 via the aerosol generating element 2.

[0176] The liquid transport element 29 is formed from a body of wicking material and has one end that is received within the storage section 28 and the other end that is in contact with the aerosol generating element 2. The liquid transport element 29 is configured to deliver the liquid aerosol forming substrate from the storage section 28 to the aerosol generating element 2.

[0177] The aerosol generating element 2 is a planar mesh element configured to vibrate in order to aerosolize a liquid aerosol-forming substrate delivered from the storage unit 28 to the aerosol generating element 2. An actuator in the form of a piezoelectric transducer (not shown) is connected to the aerosol generating element 2 to vibrate the aerosol generating element. Electrical contacts (not shown) are provided from the actuator to the connection end of the cartridge 24 for supplying electrical energy from the aerosol generator 22 to the actuator when the cartridge 24 is connected to the aerosol generator 22.

[0178] The aerosol generator 22 comprises a housing 30 that forms a cavity at the connection end for connecting the aerosol generator 22 to a cartridge 24. The aerosol generator further comprises a power supply 32 and a control circuit 34 housed within the housing 30. The power supply 32 is a rechargeable lithium-ion battery. When the cartridge is received into the cavity, electrical contacts (not shown) are provided within the cavity of the device 22 for connecting the power supply 32 and the control circuit 34 to the cartridge 24. The control circuit 34 is configured to control the supply of power from the power supply 32 to the cartridge 24.

[0179] When the cartridge 24 is received into the cavity of the device 22 during use, the aerosol generating system 20 can be activated either by the user inhaling smoke from the mouth end of the cartridge, by a sensor (not shown) in the device 22 detecting the inhalation, or by the user pressing a button. Once the aerosol generating system is activated, the control circuit 34 supplies power from the power supply 32 to the actuator of the aerosol generator 1 of the cartridge 22. The actuator vibrates the aerosol generating element 2, thereby aerosolizing the liquid aerosol-forming substrate delivered from the storage unit 28 to the aerosol generating element 2 by the liquid transport element 29.

[0180] When the user inhales the mouth end of the cartridge 24, ambient air is drawn into the chamber 8 through the air intake port 4 along the airflow path. The ambient air within the chamber 8 is directed along the outer circumference of the chamber 8 by the curved surface of the air intake port 4 and the side wall 10. The aerosolized aerosol-forming substrate is generated in the chamber 8 by the aerosol-generating element 2 and forms an aerosol that is drawn toward the mouth end opening 6 of the cartridge. The ambient air swirling along the outer circumference of the chamber directs the generated aerosol away from the surface of the chamber 8, preventing the generated aerosol droplets from accumulating on the surface of the cartridge. The aerosol is drawn out of the chamber 8 through the mouth end opening and delivered to the user for inhalation.

[0181] Figure 8 shows a perspective cross-sectional view of a planar mesh aerosol generating element 2 that forms part of the vibrating chamber 50. Such a vibrating chamber may be disposed at the aerosol generating end of the chamber 8 of the aerosol generator 1 according to embodiments of the present disclosure. Thus, Figure 8 shows an alternative non-thermal aerosol generating element 2 that may be used in the aerosol generator according to the present disclosure. The mesh element 2 is housed within a mesh element housing 52. The vibrating chamber 50 also includes an elastically deformable element 54 and an actuator 56 disposed to vibrate the elastically deformable element 54. The actuator 56 is a piezoelectric transducer.

[0182] The vibration chamber 50 also includes a preloading element 58 positioned to compress the actuator 56 between the preloading element 58 and the elastically deformable element 54. The preloading element 58, the actuator 56, and the elastically deformable element 54 are housed within an actuator housing 60. The actuator housing 60 is mounted on a mesh element housing 52 and defines a cavity 62 between the mesh element 2 and the elastically deformable element 54. The actuator housing 60 defines a liquid inlet 64 for supplying the aerosolized liquid to the cavity 62.

[0183] The elastically deformable element 54 extends radially outward from the mesh element 2 onto the mesh element housing 52 into the actuator housing 60. The region of the cavity 62 between the mesh element 2 and the elastically deformable element 54 is substantially circular and cylindrical. The mesh element housing 52 includes a raised region 63 around the mesh element 2 such that the gap between the mesh element housing 52 and the elastically deformable element 54 narrows around the mesh element 2. The narrow gap between the raised region 63 of the mesh element housing 52 and the elastically deformable element 54 restricts the flow of liquid into or out of the region of the cavity 62 between the mesh element 2 and the elastically deformable element 54, which facilitates the generation of high pressure in the liquid in this region. The outer region of the cavity 62, radially outward from the raised region 63 of the mesh element housing 52, partially extends into the actuator housing 60, providing a region of the cavity 62 that can directly hold a small amount of liquid outside the region between the mesh element 2 and the elastically deformable element 54. This outer region of the cavity 62 provides a reserve supply of liquid to the region between the mesh element 2 and the elastically deformable element 54 if the liquid is depleted from that region during operation. A liquid inlet 64 is provided within the actuator housing 60 and supplies liquid to the outer region of the cavity 62. The liquid inlet 64 is positioned offset from the region of the cavity 62 between the mesh element 2 and the elastically deformable element 54. This positioning of the liquid inlet may reduce the possibility of liquid being pushed out of the cavity through the liquid inlet when subjected to vibrations from the elastically deformable element. This may also reduce the possibility of air being drawn directly into that region from the liquid inlet 64.

[0184] During use, the liquid to be aerosolized is supplied to the cavity 62 through the liquid inlet 64. The actuator 56 vibrates the elastically deformable element 54 to force at least a portion of the liquid in the cavity 62 to pass through the channels 15 and nozzles 18 of the mesh element 2. The liquid forced to pass through the nozzles 18 of the mesh element 2 forms droplets. The momentum of the liquid forced to pass through the nozzles 18 and forming droplets carries the droplets away from the mesh element 2. Thus, during use, the vibrating chamber 50 generates an aerosol containing liquid droplets that are discharged through the mesh element 2.

[0185] Figures 9a and 9b show schematic diagrams of a surface acoustic wave atomizer (SAW atomizer). Such a SAW atomizer may be disposed at the aerosol generation end of the chamber 8 of the aerosol generator 1 according to embodiments of the present disclosure. Accordingly, Figures 9a and 9b show alternative non-thermal aerosol generation elements 2 that may be used in the aerosol generator according to the present disclosure.

[0186] Figure 9a shows a SAW atomizer having an aerosol generating element 2 in the form of a piezoelectric substrate with an active surface. In this embodiment, one interdigital transducer 70 is disposed on the lateral surface portion of the piezoelectric substrate 2. The transducer 70 is a straight transducer including a series of straight, interlaced electrodes 72 arranged in parallel. The atomization region 74 on the active surface of the piezoelectric substrate 2 is shown by a dotted line and is located close to the transducer 70 but on the opposite lateral surface portion of the piezoelectric substrate 2.

[0187] Figure 9b shows a SAW atomizer having an aerosol generating element 2 in the form of a piezoelectric substrate with an active surface. In this embodiment, one interdigital transducer 70 is disposed on the lateral surface portion of the piezoelectric substrate 2. The transducer 70 is a focusing transducer including a series of curved and tapered, parallel-distributed interlaced electrodes 72, 76. A small focal zone 74 on the active surface of the piezoelectric substrate 2 is close to the transducer 70 but located on the opposite lateral surface portion of the piezoelectric substrate 2.

[0188] Figures 10a and 10b show schematic diagrams of an aerosol generator 1 according to other embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0189] The aerosol generator in Figure 10a is similar to the aerosol generator 1 in Figures 1 and 2a, and the same reference numerals are used to specify similar features. The aerosol generator 1 shown in Figure 4a differs from the aerosol generator 1 shown in Figures 1 and 2a in that the air intake 4 is positioned to direct air into the chamber 8 away from the plane of the aerosol generating element 2. Both air intakes 4 are oriented to direct air into the chamber at an angle α with respect to the plane of the aerosol generating element 2. The air intake 4 is also oriented at an angle β with respect to the central longitudinal axis of the chamber. In this embodiment, angle α is approximately 30 degrees and angle β is approximately 60 degrees. By directing air into the chamber away from the aerosol generating element, the aerosolized aerosol-forming substrate generated in the chamber is facilitated to flow away from the aerosol generating element, thereby improving the rate of aerosol generation. In this embodiment, the air intake is also formed by an air passage of length. The air passage is shown extending into the chamber 8; however, naturally, in some embodiments, the air passage may not extend into the chamber 8.

[0190] The aerosol generator in Figure 10b is similar to the aerosol generator 1 in Figure 4a, and the same reference numerals are used to specify similar features. The aerosol generator 1 shown in Figure 4b differs from the aerosol generator 1 shown in Figure 4a in that, as described above for Figure 10a, the air intake 4 is positioned to direct the air into the chamber 8 away from the plane of the aerosol generating element 2.

[0191] For the purposes of this specification and the appended claims, unless otherwise indicated, all numbers representing amounts, quantities, percentages, etc., should be understood in all cases as being modified by the term “approximately.” Furthermore, all ranges include the disclosed maximum and minimum points and any intermediate ranges therebetween, which may or may not be specifically listed herein. Thus, in this context, the number A is understood as A ± {5%}. In this context, the number A may be considered to include a number that falls within the general standard error to the measurement of the characteristic that the number A modifies. In some cases as used in the appended claims, the number A may deviate by the percentage listed above, provided that the amount of deviation does not substantially affect the basic and novel characteristics of the claimed invention. Furthermore, all ranges include the disclosed maximum and minimum points and any intermediate ranges therebetween, which may or may not be specifically listed herein.

Claims

1. An aerosol generator configured to generate aerosols from an aerosol-forming substrate, wherein the aerosol generator is A non-thermal aerosol generating element configured to aerosolize an aerosol-forming substrate, At least one air intake, At least one air outlet, A chamber between the at least one air intake and the at least one air outlet, wherein the aerosol generating element is disposed within the chamber and configured to release an aerosolized aerosol-forming substrate into the chamber, An airflow path extending through the chamber between the air intake and the at least one air outlet, via the non-thermal aerosol generating element, An aerosol generator comprising: a side wall surrounding the aerosol generating element, the side wall having a curved surface defining the curved surface of the chamber, and the at least one air intake extending through the side wall and configured to direct air into the chamber in a tangential direction to the curved surface of the chamber.

2. The aerosol generator according to claim 1, wherein the chamber includes a mouth end and an aerosol generating end opposite to the mouth end, the at least one air outlet is disposed at the mouth end, and the width of the chamber at the mouth end is less than the width of the chamber at the aerosol generating end.

3. The aerosol generator according to claim 2, wherein the aerosol generating element is disposed at the aerosol generating end of the chamber.

4. The aerosol generator according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the at least one air intake is configured to direct air around the outer circumference of the chamber.

5. The aerosol generator according to claim 1, wherein the chamber extends along a central longitudinal axis, and the at least one air intake is configured to direct air into the chamber in a direction that does not intersect the central longitudinal axis of the chamber.

6. The aerosol generator according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the non-thermal aerosol generating element comprises a mesh element having a plurality of nozzles.

7. The aerosol generator according to claim 6, wherein the mesh aerosol generating element is a vibrable mesh element configured to vibrate.

8. The aerosol generator according to claim 7, further comprising an actuator connected to the mesh and configured to vibrate the mesh aerosol generating element.

9. The aerosol generator, A cavity for containing the liquid to be aerosolized, A liquid inlet for supplying a liquid to be atomized into a cavity, Elastically deformable elements, The mesh aerosol generating element, The vibration chamber comprises an actuator arranged to vibrate the elastically deformable element, The aerosol generator according to claim 6, wherein the vibration of the elastically deformable element by the actuator changes the pressure inside the cavity.

10. The aerosol generator according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the actuator is a transducer.

11. The aerosol generator, A substrate including an active surface, A surface acoustic wave atomizer (SAW atomizer) includes, for generating surface acoustics on the active surface of the substrate, at least one transducer positioned on the active surface of the substrate, The aerosol generator according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the aerosol generating element forms the substrate.

12. The aerosol generator according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the non-thermal aerosol generating element is a planar aerosol generating element that extends substantially in a plane.

13. The aerosol generator according to claim 12, wherein at least one air intake is configured to direct air into the chamber in a direction away from the planar aerosol generating element.

14. A cartridge for an aerosol generation system, wherein the cartridge is A storage section for holding the liquid aerosol forming substrate, an aerosol generator according to any one of claims 1 to 13, A cartridge comprising a liquid supply element configured to supply liquid from the storage section to the aerosol generating element.

15. An aerosol generating system configured to generate aerosols from an aerosol-forming substrate, wherein the aerosol generating system is A storage section for holding the liquid aerosol forming substrate, an aerosol generator according to any one of claims 1 to 13, A liquid supply element configured to supply liquid from the storage unit to the aerosol generating element, A power supply connected to the aerosol generator to supply power to the aerosol generator, An aerosol generating system comprising a control circuit configured to control the supply of power from the power source to the aerosol generator.

Images