Aerosol generating system with removable flavor elements

Abstract

The present invention relates to an aerosol generation system. The system includes an aerosol generation device having a housing and an airflow channel for delivering an aerosol, an aerosol-generating article, and at least one flavor element. The airflow channel is disposed within the housing. The flavor element is configured to emit a flavor so that it can be removably attached to the housing of the aerosol generation device. The flavor element is configured not to be in fluid communication with the airflow channel when attached to the housing of the aerosol generation device, thereby allowing flavor to be emitted from the flavor element separately from the aerosol in the airflow channel. The flavor element includes at least one flavor source, the flavor element includes a host element, the host element includes the flavor source, the host element includes at least one flavor outlet, and the flavor element includes a release selection element, the release selection element and the host element having complementary attachment means for removably connecting the release selection element and the host element.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an aerosol generating system with a flavor element. [Background technology]

[0002] It is known to provide aerosol-generating devices for generating inhalable vapors. Such devices may heat the aerosol-forming substrate of the aerosol-generating article to a temperature at which one or more components of the aerosol-forming substrate volatilize, without burning the aerosol-forming substrate. A heating element may be provided to volatilize the aerosol-forming substrate. The inhalable vapor may be delivered to the consumer through an airflow channel and an air outlet. The aerosol-generating device may include a flavor element to deliver a flavor to the consumer. However, the flavor element is typically permanently fixed to the device. Therefore, after the flavor delivered by the flavor element is completely consumed, the device may become unusable or at least deliver a less satisfying consumption experience. The consumer must purchase a new device after the flavor is completely consumed, thereby increasing the cost of the consumption experience. Furthermore, fixed flavor elements limit the consumer's ability to select and adjust the flavor to be delivered.

[0003] Furthermore, the flavor provided by the flavor element is typically in fluid communication with the aerosol delivery component of the device. The flavor compounds are typically incorporated within the aerosol-generating article. However, during the typical heat-intensive manufacturing of aerosol-generating articles, there is a risk that the flavor compounds will be lost through evaporation from the article. This, in turn, leads to some variability in the delivered flavor between different manufacturing batches of aerosol-generating articles. Furthermore, there is a risk that the flavor will deteriorate during the manufacturing of the aerosol-generating article. Additionally, consumers have limited choice and control over the flavor delivered.

[0004] It may be desirable to have an aerosol generating device whereby flavor elements can be installed in a quicker and easier manner. It may be desirable to have an aerosol generating device whereby flavor elements can be used in a versatile manner. It may be desirable to have an aerosol generating device whereby the delivered flavor can be flexibly and easily selected or adjusted. It may be desirable to provide an aerosol generating device that provides a rich sensory experience. It may be desirable to provide an aerosol generating device that provides a substantially constant flavor output. It may be desirable to have an aerosol generating device that provides an improved consumption experience for the user. It may be desirable to have an aerosol generating device that provides a cost-effective consumption experience for the consumer. It may be desirable to have an aerosol generating device that allows for improved production of flavor-containing ingredients. Summary of the Invention

[0005] According to the present invention, there is provided an aerosol generation system. The aerosol generation system comprises an aerosol generation device having a housing and an airflow channel for delivering an aerosol. The airflow channel is disposed inside the housing. The aerosol generation system comprises an aerosol-generating article. The aerosol generation system comprises at least one flavor element. The flavor element is configured to be removably attached to the housing of the aerosol generation device. The flavor element is configured to emit a flavor. The flavor element is configured not to be in fluid communication with the airflow channel when attached to the housing of the aerosol generation device, such that the flavor is emitted from the flavor element separately from the aerosol in the airflow channel.

[0006] The aerosol-generating article may comprise an aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-forming substrate may be configured to emit a volatile compound capable of forming an aerosol. The aerosol-generating device may be configured to deliver the aerosol to a consumer, preferably to the consumer's mouth, via an airflow channel. The aerosol-generating system may be configured to emit a flavor separately from the aerosol formed from the aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-generating system may be configured to emit a flavor independently from the aerosol formed from the aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-generating system may be configured to emit a flavor in addition to the aerosol formed from the aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-generating system may be configured to emit a flavor as an additional consumption experience to the aerosol. The aerosol-generating system may be configured so that the aerosol and the flavor do not mix with each other within the airflow channel. The aerosol-generating device may be configured to heat the aerosol-forming substrate to evaporate at least a portion of the aerosol-forming substrate.

[0007] The flavor elements may be configured to direct the released flavor towards the nose, preferably towards the consumer's nostrils. The flavor elements may be configured to release flavor towards the nose, preferably towards the consumer's nostrils. The flavor elements may be configured to release flavor directly towards the nose, preferably towards the consumer's nostrils. The flavor elements may be configured to release flavor to stimulate the trigeminal nerve through the nose.

[0008] The flavors released by the flavor elements may enrich the sensory experience of the consumer. The flavors released by the flavor elements may provide the consumer with an additional consumption experience to that of consuming the aerosol. The released flavors may stimulate the trigeminal nerve through the nose.

[0009] Because the flavor element is configured to be removably attached to the housing, the flavor element is easy to install. The flavor element provides consumers with an opportunity to comfortably further their consumption experience. Because the flavor element is configured to be removably attached to the housing, the flavor element may be easily replaced. A user may easily install a new flavor element when the previous flavor element is damaged or completely consumed. The flavor element may enable consumers to tailor the consumption experience provided by the aerosol generation system to their preferences. A consumer may replace the flavor element if a different consumption experience is desired. Because the flavor element is configured to be removably attached to the housing, the flavor element may be used with different types of aerosol generation devices. Because the flavor element is configured to be removably attached to the housing, the flavor element may be used with different types of existing aerosol generation devices without or substantially without modifying those types of existing aerosol generation devices. The flavor element may enable versatile use.

[0010] Furthermore, by providing a flavor element configured not to be in fluid communication with the airflow channel, the aerosol generation system may be made easier and more versatile to manufacture. Loss of flavors and flavor sources during manufacturing may be avoided. The risk of flavor and flavor source deterioration during manufacturing may be reduced. Additionally, flavors and flavor sources may be more easily adapted to external requirements, such as user preferences and legal requirements. The additional sensory experience provided by the flavor may be delivered to the consumer separately and independently from the consumption experience provided by the aerosol.

[0011] The housing of the device may comprise one or more walls. As used herein, the term "wall" refers more generally to one side of an element such as a container, and a wall may be formed from a single panel, or a wall may be formed from two or more adjacent or overlapping panels. One or more walls may be separate elements attached to or secured to one another. The housing may be a rigid housing. As used herein, the term "rigid housing" is used to mean a housing that is self-supporting.

[0012] As used herein, the term "airflow channel" is used to describe the path through which air may be drawn by the consumer.

[0013] The airflow channel may be a tube. The airflow channel may have a circular cross-section. The airflow channel may have a rectangular cross-section. The airflow may have an elliptical cross-section. The airflow channel may comprise a wall. The airflow channel wall may define the contour of the airflow channel. The airflow channel wall may surround the airflow channel.

[0014] The airflow channel may be configured to deliver the aerosol formed from the aerosol-forming substrate to a consumer, preferably to the consumer's mouth. The airflow channel may be configured to deliver the aerosol formed from the aerosol-forming substrate independently of the flavor emitted by the flavor element. The airflow channel may be configured to deliver the aerosol formed from the aerosol-forming substrate separately from the flavor emitted by the flavor element. The airflow channel may be configured to deliver the aerosol formed from the aerosol-forming substrate in isolation from the flavor emitted by the flavor element. The airflow channel may be configured to prevent the flavor and the aerosol from mixing inside the aerosol-generating device, preferably inside the housing of the aerosol-generating device.

[0015] The airflow channel may define a first airflow path. The airflow channel may form at least part of the first airflow path. The first airflow path may comprise at least part of the aerosol-generating article. The aerosol-generating device may be configured to deliver the aerosol along the first airflow path to a consumer, preferably to the consumer's mouth. One or both of the airflow channel and the first airflow path may extend between the aerosol-forming substrate and the mouth end of the device.

[0016] The airflow channel may be configured to be in fluid communication with the aerosol-forming substrate. The airflow channel may be configured to be out of fluid communication with the flavor element. The airflow channel may be configured to be out of fluid communication with the flavor emitted from the flavor element.

[0017] The aerosol generating device may comprise an air outlet. The aerosol may be delivered to the consumer's mouth via the air outlet. The housing of the aerosol generating device may comprise an air outlet. The airflow channel may be configured to deliver the aerosol to the air outlet. One or both of the airflow channel and the first airflow path may extend at least partially between the aerosol-forming substrate and the air outlet.

[0018] The aerosol generating device may include an air inlet. The housing of the aerosol generating device may include an air inlet. One or both of the air flow channel and the first air flow path may extend between the air inlet of the device and the air outlet of the device. One or both of the air flow channel and the first air flow path may extend between the air inlet of the device and the mouth end of the device. The first air flow path may extend between the air inlet and the proximal end of the aerosol-generating article.

[0019] The flavor element may be configured to emit flavor via a second airflow path. The second airflow path may be configured to be isolated from the first airflow path. The second airflow path may be configured separately from the first airflow path. The second airflow path may be configured independently from the first airflow path. The second airflow path may be configured not to be in fluid communication with the first airflow path. The second airflow path may be configured to emit flavor to the consumer, preferably towards the consumer's nose. The second airflow path may extend between the flavor element and the consumer's nose. The second airflow path may extend in a different direction compared to the first airflow path.

[0020] The aerosol generating device may comprise a fluid-impermeable separation element. The fluid-impermeable separation element may be disposed between the flavor element and the airflow channel. The fluid-impermeable separation element may comprise at least a portion of the housing. The fluid-impermeable separation element may be at least a portion of the housing. The fluid-impermeable separation element may comprise at least a portion of the airflow channel. The fluid-impermeable separation element may comprise at least a portion of a wall of the airflow channel.

[0021] The fluid-impermeable separation element may be configured to separate the airflow channel and the flavor elements. The fluid-impermeable separation element may be configured to separate the first airflow path and the flavor elements. The fluid-impermeable separation element may be configured to separate the first airflow path and the second airflow path. The fluid-impermeable separation element may be configured to prevent fluid communication between the airflow channel and the flavor elements. The fluid-impermeable separation element may be configured to prevent fluid communication between the first airflow path and the flavor elements. The fluid-impermeable separation element may be configured to prevent fluid communication between the first airflow path and the flavor elements.

[0022] The location where the flavor element is attached to the housing can be manually selected by the user. In this way, the consumer may adjust the intensity of the flavor they experience. For example, attaching the flavor element closer to the consumer's nose may increase the intensity of the flavor, or vice versa.

[0023] Additionally or alternatively, the aerosol generation system may be configured to define attachment positions. Such attachment positions may be selected such that an optimized amount of flavor is provided to the consumer when the flavor element is attached to such position. For example, such attachment positions may be marked on the housing of the device. For example, the housing of the device may be provided with recesses at such attachment positions. For example, the device may be provided with specific attachment means at such attachment positions.

[0024] As used herein, two components may be in "fluid communication" if there is a direct exchange of fluid between the two components. As used herein, two components may be in "fluid communication" if a fluid path is provided that allows fluid to flow from one component to the other. As used herein, "fluid communication" between two components may refer to a fluid passage between such components.

[0025] The flavor element may comprise an opening. The opening may have a shape complementary to at least a portion of the housing, such that the flavor element may be removably attached to the housing by form-fitting and / or friction-fitting. Preferably, the flavor element may be ring-shaped. Such a flavor element may be quickly and easily installed in the housing of the device.

[0026] The opening may be defined by an inner wall of the flavor element. The opening may be configured to receive an aerosol-generating device, preferably to receive at least a portion of the housing of the device. The opening may be configured to receive an aerosol-generating device, preferably to receive the housing of the device. The opening may be configured so that at least a portion of the device is inserted into the opening. The opening may be configured to receive at least a portion of an aerosol-generating article. The opening may be configured so that at least a portion of an aerosol-generating article is inserted into the opening. The opening may comprise a cavity.

[0027] The opening may have a circular cross-section. The opening may have a rectangular cross-section. The opening may have an oval cross-section. The cross-section of the housing of the device may be configured to be complementary to the cross-section of the opening of the flavor element. For example, the cross-section of the opening of the flavor element may be circular and the cross-section of the housing of the device may be circular, in which case the diameter of the circular cross-section of the opening may be substantially the same as the diameter of the circular cross-section of the housing.

[0028] As used herein, "form fit" may be a type of mechanical fastening. Form fit may be used to simply and reliably mechanically fasten components to one another. Form fit may refer to a connection between at least two mating components. Form fit may refer to a connection between at least two components formed using connecting elements such as screws or bolts. When a form fit is formed between a flavor element and a device, at least a portion of the flavor element and at least a portion of the housing of the device, preferably the opening of the flavor element, may have complementary shapes.

[0029] As used herein, a "friction fit" may refer to a connection between at least two components that are held together by frictional forces between at least portions of the two components. Components that are joined by a friction fit may at least partially contact each other.

[0030] The flavor element may be configured as a clip or clamp. By closing the clip or clamp, the flavor element may be attached to the housing of the device. By opening the clip or clamp, the flavor element may be removed from the device and then removed from the housing of the device. Such clip or clamp embodiments of the flavor element may be cheap and easy to manufacture.

[0031] The flavor element may be configured to be removably attached around the housing of the device or at the proximal end of the device.

[0032] The aerosol generating device and the aerosol-generating article of the aerosol generating system may have two ends, i.e., a proximal end through which the aerosol is directed from the component and delivered to the user, and a distal end. In use, a user may inhale the aerosol generated by the aerosol-generating article by sucking on the proximal end of the aerosol generating device or aerosol-generating article.

[0033] The proximal end, which may also be referred to as the oral end or downstream end, is located downstream from the distal end, and the distal end, which may also be referred to as the upstream end, is located upstream from the proximal end.

[0034] The flavor element, configured to be removably attached to the periphery of the housing of the device, may surround at least a portion of the housing of the device.

[0035] The flavour element may be configured to be removably attached to the distal end of the device.

[0036] The housing may have an outer wall. The flavor elements may be mounted on the outer wall of the housing.

[0037] The outer wall of the housing may be an annular outer wall. The outer wall of the housing may define the shape of the device. The outer wall of the housing may be the outer wall of an aerosol generating device.

[0038] The flavor element may be removably attached to the outer wall of the housing. The flavor element may be configured to be fixed relative to the outer wall of the housing. The flavor element may be attached to the outer wall of the housing by form-fitting. The flavor element may be attached to the outer wall of the housing by friction-fitting. The flavor element may be removably attached to the outer wall of the housing by friction-fitting. When the flavor element is attached to the outer wall of the housing, at least a portion of the flavor element may contact at least a portion of the outer wall of the housing.

[0039] The outer wall of the housing may comprise a surface that may be configured to provide enhanced frictional contact between the flavor element and the outer wall of the housing.

[0040] The flavour element may comprise at least one flavour source, which may preferably be held within an adsorbent material.

[0041] The adsorbent may be configured to slowly release flavor. The adsorbent may preferably be made from one or more of a paper material such as paper foam, a porous material such as ceramic, a cotton-based wicking element, and a porous polymer. Adsorbents made from paper may improve the sustainability of the aerosol generation system.

[0042] The adsorbent may be made of a paper material with a liquid-impermeable layer, and may be in contact with the housing of the aerosol generating device when attached to the housing.

[0043] The flavor source may be a volatile chemical that produces an aroma. The flavor source may be a natural oil. The flavor source may include one or more of the following plant materials: clove, eucalyptus, ginger, star anise, and rosemary. The flavor source may be a liquid.

[0044] The adsorbent may be a porous body infused with natural oils. The adsorbent may be a polymer loaded with volatile chemicals that exude and generate aromas. The flavor source may be adsorbed onto the adsorbent. The adsorbent may be configured to adsorb the flavor source.

[0045] The flavor emitted by the flavor element may be generated from a flavor source. The flavor source may be at least partially volatilized to generate the flavor. The flavor source may be at least partially volatilized without energy input from a heating element. The volatilized flavor source may be emitted by the flavor element. The flavor emitted by the flavor element may include a volatilized flavor source. The volatilized flavor source may be emitted along the second airflow path. The flavor source may be volatilized at ambient temperature. The flavor source may be volatilized at a temperature less than about 50°C, preferably less than about 45°C, and more preferably less than about 42°C. The flavor source may at least partially evaporate. The volatilized flavor source may be emitted by the flavor element. The flavor emitted by the flavor element may include a volatilized flavor source. The volatilized flavor source may be emitted along the second airflow path. The flavor source may be at least partially vaporized by heating the flavor source.

[0046] The flavor element may include at least one air inlet. Ambient air may flow into the flavor element through the air inlet. The air inlet of the flavor element may be configured to direct air towards a flavor source. The air directed towards the flavor source may volatilize the flavor source.

[0047] The second airflow pathway may extend between the flavor source and the consumer's nose.The second airflow pathway may extend between the adsorbent material and the consumer's nose.

[0048] In one embodiment, the flavor element comprises an adsorbent and a flavor source. Such flavor elements are particularly suitable for short-term use. Such flavor elements may be configured for single use. Such flavor elements may be disposable. Such flavor elements may be easy and cost-effective to manufacture.

[0049] A flavor element may comprise a single flavor source. A flavor element may comprise two or more flavor sources.

[0050] The flavour element may comprise a removable covering means for sealing the flavour source. The covering means may prevent, or at least reduce, the risk of volatilisation and release of the flavour source before use of the aerosol generating system. The covering means may prevent, or at least reduce, the risk of leakage of the flavour source and volatilised flavour source from the flavour element. Before use of the flavour element, the covering means may be removed by the consumer. The covering means may be a plastic film. The covering means may be fluid impermeable. The covering means may be configured to seal the adsorbent material containing the flavour source.

[0051] The flavor element may comprise a host element. The host element may include a flavor source. The host element may comprise at least one flavor outlet.

[0052] The host element may be configured to hold a flavor source. The host element may be configured to hold an adsorbent. The host element may be configured to host a flavor source. The host element may be configured to host an adsorbent. The host element may be configured to receive a flavor source. The host element may be configured to receive an adsorbent. The host element may be a container. The host element may be in direct contact with the housing of the aerosol generating device.

[0053] The host element may have a hollow annular shape. The host element may be ring-shaped. The host element may include an opening. The opening in the host element may be an opening in the flavor element. The opening in the host element may be configured to receive at least a portion of the device, preferably at least a portion of the housing of the device. The opening in the host element may be configured to receive at least a portion of the aerosol-generating article.

[0054] The host element may comprise an outer wall. The host element may comprise an inner wall. The host element may comprise a base. The inner and outer walls may extend from the base. The base, inner and outer walls may be integrally formed.

[0055] The host element may be configured such that flavor is released through a flavor outlet. The outer wall of the host element may comprise the flavor outlet. The flavor outlet may be an opening in the outer wall of the host element.

[0056] The host element may include a chamber. The chamber of the host element may be defined by a wall and a base of the host element. The chamber of the host element may be configured to receive one or both of an adsorbent and a flavor source. The adsorbent may be inserted into the chamber of the host element. The flavor source may be inserted into the chamber of the host element.

[0057] The host element may be made from one or more of a flexible plastic material and a paper material.

[0058] As used herein, a "flexible" material may be a material that can be easily bent without breaking or permanently changing its shape. As used herein, a "flexible" material may be made from an elastomeric polymer. A host element made from a flexible plastic material, when attached to a housing, may conform to the shape of the housing, preferably to a portion of the housing's outer wall. Due to its flexible properties, a host element made from a flexible plastic material, when attached to a housing, may apply an inward force onto the housing. The host element may be easily and quickly attached to and detached from the housing.

[0059] The host element made from paper may include recycled paper. The host element made from paper may include paper pulp. The host element made from paper may be manufactured by 3D printing. The host element made from paper, preferably made from paper pulp, may include an impermeable layer to form a moisture barrier at the location of contact with the adsorbent.

[0060] Host elements made from paper may improve the sustainability of aerosol-generating systems. Manufacturing host elements made from paper may be easy and cost-effective. Producing host elements out of paper pulp by 3D printing may allow for versatile manufacturing of differently designed host elements.

[0061] The flavor element may comprise a gripping element. The gripping element may comprise a first surface and a second surface. The first surface may be arranged to at least partially contact the housing of the aerosol generating device when the flavor element is attached to the housing. The second surface may be configured to provide a friction fit with the host element.

[0062] The gripping element may be provided between the host element and at least a portion of the housing of the device. The gripping element may be interposed between the host element and at least a portion of the device. The gripping element may act as a connector between the housing of the device and the host element. The gripping element may be made from a plastic material. The gripping element may be a strip of plastic material. The gripping element may be wrapped around at least a portion of the housing of the device.

[0063] The first surface may be smooth. The second surface may be textured. The second surface may be corrugated. The second surface may be configured to provide high friction contact between the grip element and the host element.

[0064] The grip element and the host element may be coupled to one another by a friction fit.

[0065] The gripping elements may prevent the flavor from contacting at least a portion of the device, thereby minimizing the possibility of the flavor condensing and depositing on the device. In this way, the risk of the flavor forming sticky spots on the device may be reduced.

[0066] The flavour element may comprise a release selection element and a host element, which may comprise complementary attachment means for releasably connecting the release selection element and the host element.

[0067] The attachment means may releasably couple the release selection element to the host element. The attachment means may engage the host element and the release selection element. The attachment means may be a threaded connection. The attachment means may be a bayonet connection. The attachment means may be a snap connection. The attachment means may comprise a protrusion on an inner wall of the release selection element, the protrusion configured to engage with a detent or rim on an outer wall of the host element. The attachment means may comprise a form fit.

[0068] The attachment means may comprise a locking element to prevent the release selection element and the host element from completely disengaging from each other. The locking element may comprise a notch or detent.

[0069] The release selection element may comprise an outer wall. The release selection element may comprise an inner wall. The release selection element may comprise a base. The inner and outer walls may extend from the base. The base, inner and outer walls may be integrally formed. The release selection element may be ring-shaped.

[0070] The release selection element may be made from or comprise a porous material.

[0071] The release selection element may comprise an opening. The opening of the release selection element may be an opening of the flavor element. The opening of the release selection element may be configured to receive an aerosol-generating device, preferably to receive at least a portion of the housing of the device. The opening of the release selection element may be configured to receive at least a portion of the aerosol-generating article. The opening of the release selection element may comprise a cavity.

[0072] The release selection element and the host element may be configured to have complementary shapes. The release selection element may be configured to receive at least a portion of the host element. The opening of the host element and the opening of the release selection element may together form an opening in the flavor element. The host element and the release selection element may together form a hollow cylinder. The host element may have an outer diameter corresponding to the inner diameter of the release selection element. The host element and the release selection element may together form a ring.

[0073] The release selection element may include a chamber. The chamber may be formed from one or more of an outer wall, an inner wall, and a base of the release selection element. The chamber of the release selection element may be configured to receive at least a portion of the host element.

[0074] The release selection element may prevent leakage of the flavor source from the flavor element, or at least reduce such leakage. The release selection element may seal the flavor source within the flavor element. The release selection element may improve the freshness of the flavor source. The release selection element may extend the shelf life of the flavor element and the aerosol generating system. The release selection element may prevent, or at least reduce, the risk of consumer contact with the adsorbent and the flavor source. The release selection element may control the release of flavor from the flavor element.

[0075] Flavor element embodiments with release selection elements may be particularly suitable for extended use, such as for about a week. Flavor element embodiments with release selection elements may be particularly suitable for multiple uses.

[0076] One or more of the release selection element, the host element, and the housing of the device may comprise attachment means. The attachment means may be configured to removably attach the release selection element, the host element, or both, to the housing of the device. The attachment means may be configured to removably attach the flavor element to the aerosol generation device, preferably to the housing of the device. The attachment means may be configured to secure the flavor element to the aerosol generation device, preferably to the housing of the device. The attachment means may facilitate coupling of one or more of the release selection element and the host element to the device. When one or more of the release selection element and the host element are attached to the device by the attachment means, the position of the component attached to the device by the attachment means is constant relative to the device.

[0077] In some embodiments, the location of the flavor element, including the host element and the release selection element, along the longitudinal axis of the device may be freely selected by the consumer.

[0078] The release selection element and / or the host element may comprise at least one flavour outlet. The release selection element and / or the host element may be configured such that flavour is released through the flavour outlet.

[0079] One or more of the outer wall of the release selection element, the bottom of the release selection element, and the inner wall of the host element may comprise a flavor outlet. The flavor outlet may be an opening in one or more of the outer wall of the release selection element, the bottom of the release selection element, and the inner wall of the host element.

[0080] The release selection element and / or the host element may be configured to release the volatilized flavor source through a flavor outlet. The release selection element and / or the host element may comprise multiple flavor outlets.

[0081] One or both of the release selection element and the host element may be configured to be movable between a first position and a second position. In the first position, the flavor element may be configured to release flavor from the flavor element. In the second position, the flavor element may be configured to completely prevent flavor release from the flavor element or at least limit flavor release from the flavor element compared to flavor release in the first position. In the fully open position of the release selection element, at least 10 percent of the flavor element may be directly exposed to the external environment.

[0082] In the first position, the flavor source may not be in fluid communication with the flavor outlet. In the second position, the flavor source may be in fluid communication with the flavor outlet.

[0083] In the second position, the release selection element may be configured to completely prevent the release of flavor from the flavor element, or may be configured to at least limit the release of flavor from the flavor element compared to the release of flavor in the first position.

[0084] The release selection element and / or the host element may be configured to be movable between a first position and a second position by rotating the release selection element and the host element relative to one another. For such rotational embodiments, the attachment means may preferably be a threaded connection. The release selection element and / or the host element may be configured to be movable between a first position and a second position by pushing or pulling the release selection element and / or the host element. Pushing or pulling the release selection element and / or the host element may move the release selection element and / or the host element along the longitudinal axis of the device or parallel to the longitudinal axis of the device. In the second position, the release selection element and the host element may be spaced further apart from one another compared to the first position. The release selection element and / or the host element may be configured to be movable between the first position and the second position by moving the release selection element and / or the host element relative to one another along the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generating device or parallel to the longitudinal axis of the device.

[0085] As used herein, the term "longitudinal axis" may refer to the longitudinal direction of a device extending between the upstream and downstream ends of the device. As used herein, the term "longitudinal axis" may refer to the longitudinal direction of a device extending between the proximal and distal ends of the device. The longitudinal axis of a device may be the central longitudinal axis of the device.

[0086] In one embodiment, the release selection element may be moved between a first position and a second position by rotation relative to a host element attached to the device. The release selection element may comprise at least one flavor outlet. Preferably, the host element may be attached to the aerosol generating device by an attachment means, preferably at the proximal end of the device.

[0087] In another embodiment, the host element may be moved relative to the release selection element along or parallel to the longitudinal axis of the device. The host element may comprise at least one flavour outlet. The attachment means may be a threaded connection. The host element may be moved between the first and second positions by rotating the host element relative to the release selection element via the threaded connection attachment means. Preferably, the release selection element may be coupled to the device by the attachment means, preferably at the proximal end of the device. Preferably, the host element may be fully inserted into the release selection element in the second position.

[0088] In yet another embodiment, the host element may be moved relative to the release selection element along or parallel to the longitudinal axis of the device. The host element may comprise at least one flavor outlet. The host element may be moved from the first position to the second position by pushing the host element towards the release selection element. The host element may be moved from the second position to the first position by pulling the host element. Preferably, the release selection element may be coupled to the device by an attachment means, preferably at the proximal end of the device.

[0089] The complementary attachment means may be configured to move one or both of the release selection element and the host element between a first position and a second position.

[0090] In one embodiment, the attachment means may comprise a threaded connection. The host element and the release selection element may be configured to be movable between a first position and a second position by rotating one or both of the host element and the release selection element relative to one another. The host element may be configured to partially unthread from the release selection element when moved from the second position to the first position.

[0091] The attachment means may be configured to hold the release selection element and the host element in a second position spaced further apart from each other compared to the first position.

[0092] The host element may comprise at least one recess and at least one protrusion. The recess may contain a flavor source. In the first position, the flavor outlet of the release selection element may be aligned with the recess of the host element. In the second position, the flavor outlet of the release selection element may be aligned with the protrusion of the host element.

[0093] The recesses may be configured to hold one or both of an adsorbent and a flavor source. The recesses may be configured as pockets that hold one or both of a flavor source and an adsorbent. The recesses may be configured as pockets in the outer wall of the host element. The protrusions may comprise at least a portion of the outer wall of the host element. The host element may comprise a plurality of recesses and a plurality of protrusions. The recesses and protrusions may be symmetrically positioned on the host element. The recesses and protrusions may be alternately positioned on the host element. The recesses may be circumferentially disposed on the host element.

[0094] In the first position, the recess of the host element may be in fluid communication with the flavor outlet of the release selection element. In the first position, the flavor outlet of the release selection element may be positioned adjacent to the recess of the host element. In the first position, the flavor outlet of the release selection element may be adjacent to the recess of the host element.

[0095] In the second position, the recess of the host element may not be in fluid communication with the flavor outlet of the release selection element. In the second position, release of flavor may be blocked by at least a portion of the outer wall of the release selection element. In the second position, the flavor outlet of the release selection element may be positioned adjacent to the protrusion of the host element. In the second position, the flavor outlet of the release selection element may be adjacent to the protrusion of the host element.

[0096] The aerosol generating device may further include a mouthpiece. The mouthpiece may be attached to the housing of the aerosol generating device. The flavor element may be removably attached to the mouthpiece. Additionally or alternatively, the flavor element may be interposed between the mouthpiece and the body of the aerosol generating device.

[0097] The flavor element may be removably attached to the distal end of the mouthpiece. The flavor element may be a stripe of adsorbent material. The flavor element may wrap around at least a portion of the mouthpiece.

[0098] The fluid impermeable separation element may be one or more of at least a portion of the outer wall of the housing, at least a portion of the mouthpiece, at least a portion of the release selection element, and at least a portion of the host element.

[0099] The mouthpiece may comprise an aerosol-generating article. The aerosol-generating article may comprise a liquid reservoir. The liquid reservoir may comprise a cartridge. The liquid reservoir may contain a liquid aerosol-forming substrate. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may generate an aerosol by evaporation. The mouthpiece may comprise an air outlet. A consumer may inhale the air outlet of the mouthpiece. The aerosol may be inhaled through the air outlet of the mouthpiece into the mouth of the consumer.

[0100] The body of the aerosol generating device may be defined by a housing of the aerosol generating device. The housing of the aerosol generating device may enclose the device body. The body of the aerosol generating device may comprise one or more of a housing, an electrical circuit, a power source, a heating chamber, and a heating element.

[0101] The flavor element may be a sticker.

[0102] The sticker may be made from a biodegradable material.

[0103] The sticker may have a top surface and a bottom surface. The bottom surface may comprise an adhesive. The adhesive may be biodegradable. The bottom surface may be removably attached to at least a portion of the aerosol generating device. The top surface may include one or both of an adsorbent material and a flavor source. The top surface may be in fluid communication with the surroundings of the aerosol generating device. The flavor may be released from the top surface of the sticker.

[0104] The sticker may be applied to one or more of the host element and the release selection element.

[0105] The sticker may be rubbed by the consumer prior to the consumption experience, thus enhancing the intensity of the consumption experience due to the release of flavor.

[0106] The sticker element may have an expected lifespan that is only a small fraction of the expected lifespan of the aerosol generation system, for example, one-tenth or one-twentieth of the expected lifespan of the aerosol generation system. Sticker-type flavor elements may be easily replaced. Sticker flavor elements may be recycled. The device may be used with different sticker flavor elements, for example, with sticker elements having different properties.

[0107] The aerosol generating system may comprise at least a first flavor element and a second flavor element, the first flavor element may be configured to emit a first flavor, and the second flavor element may be configured to emit a second flavor, the first flavor may be different from the second flavor.

[0108] The aerosol generating device may have a mouth end through which the aerosol is directed from the aerosol generating device and delivered to the user during use. The mouth end may also be referred to as the proximal end. During use, a user inhales the aerosol generated by the aerosol generating device by sucking on the proximal or mouth end of the aerosol generating device. Alternatively, a user may directly inhale an aerosol-generating article inserted into an opening in the proximal end of the aerosol generating device. The opening in the proximal end may be one or more openings for the flavor element, the host element, and the release selection element. The aerosol generating device may have a distal end located opposite the proximal or mouth end. The proximal or mouth end of the aerosol generating device may also be referred to as the downstream end, and the distal end of the aerosol generating device may also be referred to as the upstream end. Components of an aerosol generating device, or portions of components, may be described as being upstream or downstream of one another based on the relative position between the proximal or downstream or mouth end and the distal or upstream end of the aerosol generating device.

[0109] The present invention further relates to an aerosol generation system comprising an aerosol-generating article and an aerosol generating device. The aerosol generating device may comprise a housing, a mouth end, and an airflow channel for delivering aerosol from the aerosol-generating article to the mouth end of the aerosol generating system and further to a consumer. The airflow channel may be disposed within the housing. The aerosol generating system may further comprise at least one flavor element. The flavor element may be configured to be removably attached to the housing of the aerosol generating device. The flavor element may be configured to emit a flavor, and a fluid communication path may be established between the flavor element and the consumer. The fluid communication path may bypass the airflow channel.

[0110] The present invention further relates to an aerosol generation system comprising an aerosol-generating article and an aerosol generating device. The aerosol generating device comprises a housing, a mouth end, and an airflow channel for delivering aerosol from the aerosol-generating article to the mouth end of the aerosol generating system and to a consumer. The airflow channel is disposed within the housing. The aerosol generating system further comprises at least one flavor element. The flavor element is configured to be removably attached to the housing of the aerosol generating device. The flavor element is configured to emit a flavor, and a fluid communication path is established between the flavor element and the consumer. The fluid communication path bypasses the airflow channel.

[0111] As used herein, "aerosol-generating device" relates to a device that generates an aerosol by interacting with an aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-forming substrate may be part of an aerosol-generating article. The aerosol-generating device may interact with the aerosol-forming substrate of the aerosol-generating article to generate an aerosol that is inhalable directly through the user's mouth into the user's lungs. The aerosol-generating device may be a holder. The device may be an electrically heated device. The aerosol-generating device may comprise a housing, an electrical circuit, a power source, a heating chamber, and a heating element. The aerosol-generating device may be cylindrical in shape.

[0112] The aerosol-generating device of the present invention may be arranged to heat the aerosol-forming substrate to a temperature below the combustion temperature of the aerosol-forming substrate but above the temperature at which one or more volatile compounds of the aerosol-forming substrate are released, in order to form an inhalable aerosol.

[0113] The aerosol generating device may comprise an electrical circuit. The electrical circuit may comprise a microprocessor, which may be a programmable microprocessor. The microprocessor may be part of a controller. The electrical circuit may comprise further electronic components. The electrical circuit may be configured to regulate the power supply to the heating element. Power may be supplied to the heating element continuously after activation of the aerosol generating device, or may be supplied intermittently, such as between puffs. Power may be supplied to the heating element in the form of current pulses. The electrical circuit may be configured to monitor the electrical resistance of the heating element, and preferably to control the power supply to the heating element depending on the electrical resistance of the heating element.

[0114] The aerosol generating device may include a power source, typically a battery, within the body of the aerosol generating device. In one embodiment, the power source is a lithium-ion battery. Alternatively, the power source may be a nickel-metal hydride battery, a nickel-cadmium battery, or a lithium-based battery, such as a lithium-cobalt battery, a lithium iron phosphate battery, a lithium titanate battery, or a lithium polymer battery. Alternatively, the power source may be another form of charge storage device, such as a capacitor. The power source may require recharging and may have a capacity that allows it to store sufficient energy for one or more use experiences; for example, the power source may have a capacity sufficient to continuously generate aerosol for approximately six minutes or a multiple of six minutes. In another example, the power source may have a capacity sufficient to provide a predetermined number of puffs or to provide intermittent activation of the heating element.

[0115] The aerosol generating device may comprise a cavity. The cavity of the aerosol generating device may be configured to receive an aerosol-generating article. The cavity of the aerosol generating device may have an open end into which the aerosol-generating article is inserted. The open end may be a proximal end. The cavity may have a closed end opposite the open end. The closed end may be a base of the cavity. The closed end may be closed except for an air opening disposed in the base. The airflow channel may comprise an opening disposed in the base. The opening disposed in the base may be an air outlet for the airflow channel. The base of the cavity may be flat. The base of the cavity may be circular. The base of the cavity may be disposed upstream of the cavity. The open end may be disposed downstream of the cavity. The cavity may have an elongated extension. The cavity may have a longitudinal central axis. The longitudinal axis may be a direction extending along the longitudinal central axis between the open end and the closed end. The central longitudinal axis of the cavity may be parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generating device.

[0116] The cavity of the aerosol-generating device may be configured as a heating chamber. The cavity may have a cylindrical shape. The cavity may have a hollow cylindrical shape. The cavity may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the aerosol-generating article to be received therein. The cavity may have a circular cross-section. The cavity may have an elliptical or rectangular cross-section. The cavity may have an inner diameter corresponding to the outer diameter of the aerosol-generating article.

[0117] At least a portion of the airflow channel may extend through a cavity in the aerosol generating device. Ambient air may be drawn into the aerosol generating device, further into the cavity, and through the airflow channel toward the user. A mouthpiece may be disposed downstream of the cavity, or the user may inhale directly on the aerosol-generating article. The airflow channel may extend through the mouthpiece.

[0118] The aerosol generating system may comprise a cavity. The cavity of the aerosol generating system may be formed by the cavity of the aerosol generating device and one or more openings of the flavor element, the host element, and the release selection element. The cavity of the aerosol generating system may be configured to receive an aerosol-generating article. The aerosol-generating article may be inserted into the cavity of the aerosol generating system.

[0119] In any aspect of the present disclosure, the heating element may comprise an electrically resistive material. Suitable electrically resistive materials include, but are not limited to, semiconductors such as doped ceramics, electrically "conductive" ceramics (e.g., molybdenum disilicide, etc.), carbon, graphite, metals, metal alloys, and composites made from ceramic and metallic materials. Such composites may include doped or undoped ceramics. An example of a suitable doped ceramic includes doped silicon carbide. Examples of suitable metals include titanium, zirconium, tantalum, platinum, gold, and silver. Examples of suitable metal alloys include stainless steel, nickel-containing alloys, cobalt-containing alloys, chromium-containing alloys, aluminum-containing alloys, titanium-containing alloys, zirconium-containing alloys, hafnium-containing alloys, niobium-containing alloys, molybdenum-containing alloys, tantalum-containing alloys, tungsten-containing alloys, tin-containing alloys, gallium-containing alloys, manganese-containing alloys, gold-containing alloys, iron-containing alloys, nickel-based superalloys, iron-based superalloys, cobalt-based superalloys, stainless steel-based superalloys, Timetal®, and iron-manganese-aluminum-based alloys. In composite materials, the electrically resistive material may optionally be embedded in, embedded in, or coated with an insulating material, or vice versa, depending on the required energy transfer kinetics and external physicochemical properties.

[0120] As described, in any aspect of the present disclosure, the heating element may be part of the aerosol-generating device. The aerosol-generating device may include an internal heating element, an external heating element, or both an internal and an external heating element, where "internal" and "external" refer to the aerosol-forming substrate. The internal heating element may take any suitable form. For example, the internal heating element may take the form of a heating blade. Alternatively, the internal heater may take the form of a casing or substrate having different conductive portions, or an electrically resistive metal tube. Alternatively, the internal heating element may be one or more heating needles or rods extending through the center of the aerosol-forming substrate. Other alternatives include heating wires or filaments, such as Ni—Cr (nickel-chromium), platinum, tungsten, or alloy wires, or heating plates. Optionally, the internal heating element may be deposited within or on a rigid carrier material. In one such embodiment, the electrically resistive heating element may be formed using a metal with a well-defined relationship between temperature and resistivity. In such an exemplary device, the metal may be formed as tracks on a suitable insulating material, such as a ceramic material, and then sandwiched in another insulating material, such as glass. The heater thus formed may be used in operation to both heat the heating element and to monitor the temperature.

[0121] The external heating element may take any suitable form. For example, the external heating element may take the form of one or more flexible heating foils on a dielectric substrate such as polyimide. The flexible heating foil may be shaped to fit around the cavity that receives the substrate. Alternatively, the external heating element may take the form of a metal grid, a flexible printed circuit board, a molded circuit component (MID), a ceramic heater, a flexible carbon fiber heater, or may be formed on a suitably shaped substrate using a coating technique such as plasma vapor deposition. The external heating element may also be formed using a metal that has a well-defined relationship between temperature and resistivity. In such an exemplary device, the metal may be formed as a track between two layers of suitable insulating material. The external heating element thus formed may be used, in operation, for both heating the external heating element and temperature monitoring.

[0122] As an alternative to an electrically resistive heating element, the heating element may be configured as an induction heating element. The induction heating element may include an induction coil and a susceptor. Generally, a susceptor is a material that can generate heat when penetrated by an alternating magnetic field when placed within the alternating magnetic field. If the susceptor is conductive, eddy currents are typically induced by the alternating magnetic field. If the susceptor is magnetic, another effect that typically contributes to heating is commonly referred to as hysteresis loss. Hysteresis loss occurs primarily due to magnetic domain blocks within the susceptor, as their magnetic directions align with the alternating magnetic field. Another effect that contributes to hysteresis loss is when magnetic domains expand or contract within the susceptor. Generally, all of these changes occurring within the susceptor at the nanoscale or below generate heat within the susceptor, hence the term "hysteresis loss." Thus, if the susceptor is both magnetic and conductive, both hysteresis loss and eddy current generation contribute to heating of the susceptor. If the susceptor is magnetic but not conductive, hysteresis loss is the only means by which the susceptor heats when penetrated by an alternating magnetic field. According to the present invention, the susceptor may be conductive, magnetic, or both conductive and magnetic. The alternating magnetic field generated by one or more induction coils heats the susceptor, which then transfers heat to the aerosol-forming substrate, thereby forming the aerosol. Heat transfer may be primarily by conduction. Such heat transfer is optimal when the susceptor is in intimate thermal contact with the aerosol-forming substrate.

[0123] As used herein, the term "aerosol-generating article" refers to an article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate capable of emitting a volatile compound capable of forming an aerosol. For example, the aerosol-generating article may generate an aerosol that can be inhaled directly through a user's mouth into the user's lungs. The aerosol-generating article may be disposable.

[0124] As used herein, the term "aerosol-forming substrate" relates to a substrate capable of releasing one or more volatile compounds capable of forming an aerosol. Such volatile compounds may be released by heating the aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-forming substrate may conveniently be part of an aerosol-generating article.

[0125] The aerosol-forming substrate may be a solid aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-forming substrate may include both solid and liquid components. The aerosol-forming substrate may include a tobacco-containing material containing volatile tobacco flavor compounds that are released from the substrate upon heating. The aerosol-forming substrate may include a non-tobacco material. The aerosol-forming substrate may include an aerosol former that facilitates the formation of a high-density, stable aerosol. Examples of suitable aerosol formers are glycerin and propylene glycol.

[0126] The aerosol-generating substrate preferably comprises a homogenized tobacco material, an aerosol former, and water. Providing a homogenized tobacco material may improve aerosol generation and the nicotine content and flavor profile of the aerosol generated during heating of the aerosol-generating article. Specifically, the process of making homogenized tobacco involves grinding tobacco leaves, which allows for more efficient release of nicotine and flavor upon heating.

[0127] The aerosol-forming substrate may be a liquid. The aerosol-generating article may comprise a container, cartridge or reservoir for holding the liquid aerosol-forming substrate. The mouthpiece may comprise a container, cartridge or reservoir for holding the liquid aerosol-forming substrate.

[0128] The heating element may be configured to heat the flavor source and may further be configured to heat the aerosol-forming substrate of the aerosol-generating article. The heating element may heat the flavor source by thermal conduction. The heating element may be configured to vaporize at least a portion of the flavor source.

[0129] The aerosol-generating device may comprise a first heating element and a second heating element. The first heating element may be configured to heat an aerosol-forming substrate of the aerosol-generating article. The second heating element may be configured to heat a flavor source. The second heating element may be configured to vaporize at least a portion of the flavor source. [Example]

[0130] The following provides a non-exhaustive list of non-limiting examples, any one or more features of which may be combined with any one or more features of any other example, embodiment, or aspect described herein.

[0131] Example 1: 1. An aerosol generating system comprising: an aerosol-generating article; an aerosol generating device comprising a housing and an airflow channel for delivering an aerosol, the airflow channel being disposed within the housing; at least one flavor element, the at least one flavor element being configured to be removably attached to a housing of the aerosol generating device and configured to emit a flavor; An aerosol generating system, wherein the flavor element is configured not to be in fluid communication with the airflow channel when the flavor element is attached to the housing of the aerosol generating device, thereby allowing flavor to be released from the flavor element separately from the aerosol in the airflow channel. Example 2: An aerosol generation system as described in Example 1, wherein the flavor element has an opening, the opening having a shape complementary to at least a portion of the housing, such that the flavor element is removably attached to the housing by one or both of a form fit and a friction fit, and preferably the flavor element is ring-shaped. Example 3: 3. The aerosol generation system of any one of Examples 1 to 2, wherein the flavor element is configured to be removably attached to the periphery of the housing of the device or to the proximal end of the device. Example 4: 4. An aerosol generating system according to any one of Examples 1 to 3, wherein the housing has an outer wall and the flavor element is mounted on the outer wall of the housing. Example 5: 5. The aerosol generating system of any one of Examples 1 to 4, wherein the flavor element comprises at least one flavor source, the flavor source preferably being held within an adsorbent material. Example 6: 6. The aerosol generation system of Example 5, wherein the flavor element comprises a host element, the host element comprising a flavor source, and the host element comprises at least one flavor outlet. Example 7: An aerosol generation system as described in Example 6, wherein the flavor element has a gripping element, the gripping element having a first surface and a second surface, the first surface being arranged to at least partially contact the housing of the aerosol generation device when the flavor element is attached to the housing, and the second surface being configured to provide a friction fit with the host element. Example 8: An aerosol generating system described in any one of Examples 1 to 7, wherein the flavor element comprises a release selection element and a host element described in Example 6, and the release selection element and the host element have complementary attachment means for detachably connecting the release selection element and the host element. Example 9: An aerosol generation system described in any one of Examples 6 to 8, wherein one or both of the release selection element and the host element have at least one flavor outlet, and one or both of the release selection element and the host element are configured to release flavor from the flavor outlet. Example 10: An aerosol generating system described in any one of Examples 6 to 9, wherein one or both of the release selection element and the host element are configured to be movable between a first position and a second position, and in the first position, the flavor element is configured to release a flavor from the flavor element, and in the second position, the flavor element is configured to completely prevent the release of flavor from the flavor element, or to at least limit the release of flavor from the flavor element compared to the release of flavor in the first position. Example 11: An aerosol generation system as described in Example 10, wherein the complementary attachment means is configured to move one or both of the release selection element and the host element between a first position and a second position. Example 12: An aerosol generation system as described in Example 10 or 11, wherein the host element has at least one recess and at least one protrusion, the recess containing a flavor source, and in the first position, the flavor outlet of the release selection element is aligned with the recess of the host element, and in the second position, the flavor outlet of the release selection element is aligned with the protrusion of the host element. Example 13: An aerosol generating system according to any one of Examples 1 to 5, wherein the aerosol generating device further comprises a mouthpiece, the mouthpiece being attached to the housing of the aerosol generating device, and the flavor element being detachably attached to the mouthpiece, or the flavor element being interposed between the mouthpiece and the main body of the aerosol generating device. Example 14: 6. The aerosol generating system of any one of Examples 1 and 3-5, wherein the flavor element is a sticker. Example 15: An aerosol generating system according to any one of Examples 1 to 14, comprising at least a first flavor element and a second flavor element, the first flavor element being configured to emit a first flavor and the second flavor element being configured to emit a second flavor, preferably the first flavor being different from the second flavor.

[0132] Features described in relation to one embodiment may equally be applied to other embodiments of the invention.

[0133] The invention will now be further described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0134] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 shows an aerosol generating system of the present invention with a flavor element. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 shows the components of the flavor elements of the present invention. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 shows one embodiment of the flavor element of the present invention, comprising a host element and a release selection element. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 shows an assembled flavor element of the present invention with a host element and a release selection element similar to FIG. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 shows another embodiment of the flavor element of the present invention. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 shows an aerosol generating system of the present invention incorporating the flavor elements of FIGS. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 shows one embodiment of an aerosol generating system of the present invention having a flavor element removably attached at the mouthpiece. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 shows one embodiment of the flavor element of the present invention as a sticker. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 shows one embodiment of an aerosol generating system of the present invention with two flavor elements. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0135] 1 shows an aerosol-generating system 100 of the present invention. The system includes an aerosol-generating device 102, a flavor element 104, and an aerosol-generating article 106. The flavor element 104 is mounted on the device 102.

[0136] The flavor element 104 comprises a host element 108. The host element 108 comprises an adsorbent 110. The adsorbent 110 is inserted into a chamber of the host element 108. The adsorbent 110 contains a flavor source. The host element 108 comprises a flavor outlet 112. The flavor element 104 further comprises a gripping element 114. The gripping element 114 is interposed between the aerosol-generation device 102 and the host element 108. The gripping element 114 improves retention of the flavor element 104 on the aerosol-generation device 102.

[0137] The aerosol generating device includes a housing 116. The aerosol generating device is inserted into an opening in the host element 108.

[0138] The aerosol-generating system further comprises an aerosol-generating article 106 comprising an aerosol-forming substrate, the aerosol-generating article 106 being inserted into the cavity of the aerosol-generating device.

[0139] In use, a consumer inhales the proximal end 118 of the aerosol-generating article 106. When a user inhales the aerosol-generating article 106, a negative pressure is created. Ambient air is drawn into the aerosol-generating device 102 and flows through the airflow channel toward the user. A heating element (not shown) in the aerosol-generating device 102 is arranged to heat the aerosol-forming substrate to a temperature below the combustion temperature of the aerosol-forming substrate but above the temperature at which one or more volatile compounds of the aerosol-forming substrate are released, thereby forming an inhalable aerosol. The aerosol is inhaled at the proximal end 118 of the aerosol-generating article 106 into the consumer's mouth.

[0140] Additionally, flavor is generated by volatilizing at least a portion of the flavor source in the adsorbent material 110. The flavor is released into the environment through the flavor outlet 112 of the flavor element 104.

[0141] When the aerosol-generating article 106 is inserted into the consumer's mouth, the flavor element 104 is positioned near the consumer's nose. The released flavor is delivered to the consumer's nose. The flavor stimulates nasal receptors. In this way, the flavor provides a sensory experience to the consumer in addition to the experience provided by the aerosol consumed through the consumer's mouth.

[0142] The release of flavor is separated from the release of aerosol. The flavor is separated from the aerosol by at least the housing 116 of the device 102. Fluid communication between the flavor element 104 and the interior of the device 102 is prevented by at least the housing 116 of the device.

[0143] The consumer may select the mounting location along the longitudinal axis 119 of the device 102 .

[0144] Figure 2 shows a more detailed view of each section of the flavor element 104, similar to the flavor element 104 of Figure 1. Figure 2A shows two views of the gripping element 114. The left side of Figure 2A shows the gripping element 114 in an open configuration. The right side of Figure 2A shows the gripping element in a closed configuration.

[0145] The gripping element 114 is configured as a strip. The gripping element 114 has a first surface 120. The first surface 120 is configured to be smooth. On the opposite side of the strip, the gripping element 114 has a second surface 121. The second surface 121 is configured to be rough. The second surface 121 may have a greater surface roughness than the first surface 120.

[0146] The gripping element 114 is transitioned from the open configuration to the closed configuration by at least partially rolling the gripping element 114 to form a ring, whereby the smooth surface is disposed on the interior of the ring and the textured surface is disposed on the exterior of the ring. The gripping element 114 may be attached to the aerosol generation device 102 by wrapping the gripping element 114 around the device 102. When attached to the device 102, the gripping element 114 is in the closed configuration as shown in FIG. 1 . The smooth first surface 120 contacts the housing 116 of the device 102. The textured second surface 121 faces the host element 108 of the flavor element 104 and improves frictional contact between the gripping element 114 and the adsorbent 110 contained within the host element 108.

[0147] 2B shows a more detailed view of a host element 108 similar to the host element 108 shown in FIG. 1. The host element 108 includes a flavor outlet 112. The flavor outlet 112 is an opening in the outer wall of the host element 108. The host element 108 is ring-shaped. The host element 108 includes a chamber 122 and an opening 123.

[0148] 2C shows the adsorbent material 110. The adsorbent material 110 may include a flavor source.

[0149] The chamber 122 of the host element 108 of Figure 2B is configured to receive the adsorbent 110 of Figure 2C. The adsorbent 110 may be curved to fit inside the chamber 122 of the host element 108. The adsorbent 110 may be aligned with the flavor outlet 112 when inserted into the host element 108.

[0150] Figure 3A shows two schematic diagrams of an embodiment of a ring-shaped host element 108, and Figure 3B shows an embodiment of a ring-shaped release selection element 124. The host element 108 of Figure 3A and the release selection element 124 of Figure 3B are configured to be complementary to each other.

[0151] The host element 108 of Figure 3A comprises a recess 126 and a protrusion 128. The host element 108 further comprises an attachment means 130 in the form of a protrusion that may engage with the aerosol-generating device 102 to couple the host element 108 to the device 102. The recess 126 is configured as a pocket in an outer wall 132 of the host element 108. The recess 126 is configured to receive an adsorbent material (not shown) that comprises a flavor source.

[0152] The release selection element 124 comprises a flavor outlet 112 radially disposed on an outer wall 134 of the release selection element 124. The release selection element further comprises an opening 123. The release selection element 124 comprises an attachment means 138. The attachment means 138 comprises a protrusion that may engage a rim 140 of the host element 108 to connect the release selection element 124 and the host element 108.

[0153] FIG. 4 shows the host element 108 and release selection element 124 in an assembled configuration, which forms one embodiment of the flavor element 104 of the present invention.

[0154] 4A shows a host element 108 and a release selection element 124 attached to an aerosol generation device 102. The host element 108 is coupled to the device 102 by an attachment means 130. The host element 108 is received within the release selection element 124. The release selection element 124 is interlocked with the host element 108. The flavor element is shown attached to the proximal end of the aerosol generation device. By attaching the flavor element 104 to the proximal end, the flavor element 104 is positioned very close to the consumer's nose, thereby improving the release of flavor to the consumer's nose.

[0155] The aerosol-generating article 106 may be inserted into the cavity of the aerosol-generating system through the opening 123. The aerosol-generating article 106 may be heated when inserted into the cavity of the aerosol-generating system.

[0156] 4B shows a bottom view of the flavor element 104 assembled with the host element 108 and the release selection element 124. The host element 108 is inserted into the release selection element 124. The flavor element 104 is shown in a first position. The recess 126 of the host element 108 is aligned with the flavor outlet 112 of the release selection element 124. The recess 126 contains a flavor source. The recess 126 is in fluid communication with the flavor outlet 112. Flavor generated from the flavor source may be released from the flavor element 104 through the flavor outlet 112.

[0157] The release selection element 124 includes four sets of three flavor outlets 112. The host element 108 includes four recesses 126. In the first position shown, each set of flavor outlets 112 is in fluid communication with one of the recesses 126.

[0158] In use, a consumer inhales an aerosol-generating article (not shown) inserted into the opening 123. The consumer inhales the aerosol, which is formed by heating the aerosol-forming substrate of the aerosol-generating article and delivered through the proximal end 118 of the aerosol-generating article 106. Additionally, when the flavor element 104 coupled to the device 102, as shown in FIG. 4A , is in a first position, flavor is emitted from the flavor outlet 112 of the release selection element 124. The emitted flavor flows directly to the consumer's nose, providing a consumption experience in addition to that provided by the inhaled aerosol. If a consumption experience in addition to aerosol consumption is not desired, the consumer may rotate the release selection element 124 to a second position. In the second position, the flavor outlet 112 of the release selection element 124 is aligned with the protrusion 128 of the host element 108. In the second position, fluid communication between the recess 126 and the flavor outlet 112 is blocked by the protrusion 128 and the outer wall 134 of the release selection element 124. In the second position, no flavor is released from the flavor element 104.

[0159] 4C shows a cross section parallel to the longitudinal axis 141 of the device 102 and the flavor element 104 coupled with the host element 108 and the release selection element 124. The host element 108 is coupled to the device 102. The host element 108 is received by the release selection element 124.

[0160] Figure 4D shows a flavor element 104 with a host element 108 and a release selection element 124. The release selection element 124 is shown in a transparent view to illustrate the interaction between the structures of the host element 108 and the release selection element 124. The flavor element 104 is shown in a first position, with the flavor outlet 112 aligned with the recess 126. Figure 6A shows a further embodiment of the system 100 in which the flavor element 104 of the embodiment shown in Figure 4D is mounted on the aerosol generation device 102 in a central position.

[0161] 5A shows another embodiment of a flavor element 104, including a host element 108 and a release selection element 124. The release selection element 124 includes a chamber 142. The chamber 142 is configured to receive at least a portion of the host element 108. The host element 108 and the release selection element 124 are ring-shaped. An outer wall 132 of the host element 108 includes a plurality of flavor outlets 112. The host element 108 includes a flavor source (not shown). The flavor element 104 may further include an attachment means (not shown). The attachment means 138 may include a threaded connection (not shown). The flavor element 104 may be attached to the proximal end of the aerosol generating device 102. Attaching the flavor element 104 to the proximal end positions the flavor element 104 very close to the consumer's nose, thereby improving flavor release to the consumer's nose.

[0162] The flavor element 104 may be moved from the second position to the first position by rotating the host element 108 relative to the release selection element 124 (indicated by arrow 144). The release selection element 124 may be fixed relative to the aerosol generation device 102. By rotating the host element 108, the host element 108 may be at least partially unscrewed from the release selection element 124 via the threaded connection, thereby achieving the first position. In the first position, the host element 108 is further detached from the release selection element 124 compared to the second position. In the first position, the flavor outlet 112 of the host element 108 is positioned above the wall of the chamber 142 of the release selection element 124. In the first position, the flavor outlet 112 is in fluid communication with the surroundings. In the first position, flavor is released into the surroundings through the flavor outlet 112.

[0163] To achieve the second position, the host element 108 is further screwed onto the release selection element 124 via the threaded connection. In the second position, the walls of the chamber 142 of the release selection element cover the flavor outlet 112 of the host element 108. In the second position, flavor release from the flavor outlet 112 is blocked by the walls of the chamber 142 of the release selection element 124.

[0164] FIG. 6B shows a further embodiment of the system 100 in which the flavor element 104 of the embodiment shown in FIG. 5A is mounted on the aerosol generating device 102 in a central position.

[0165] FIG. 5B illustrates an embodiment of the flavor element 104 with the host element 108 and release selection element 124 in a second position. The release selection element 124 is shown partially transparent to more clearly illustrate the configuration of the flavor outlet 112 of the host element 108. The host element 108 is shown fully inserted into the chamber 142 of the release selection element 124. The host element 108 contains a flavor source (not shown). The release selection element 124 blocks fluid communication between the flavor outlet 112 and the surroundings, thereby preventing flavor from being released through the flavor outlet 112. Arrow 146 indicates that the host element 108 has been pushed down into the chamber 142 of the release selection element 124, thereby blocking release through the flavor outlet 112. In the first position, the flavor outlet 112 of the host element 108 is positioned above the release selection element 124. The flavor outlet 112 is in fluid communication with the surroundings of the flavor element 104. The flavor formed from the flavor source is released through the flavor outlet 112 .

[0166] 5C shows the flavor element 104 of FIG. 5B with the host element 108 and the release selection element 124 in a first position. The host element 108 has two sections 148, 150 of different diameters. The diameter of section 148 is larger than the diameter of section 150. The diameter of section 148 is larger than the diameter of the outer wall 134 of the release selection element 124. The diameter of section 150 of the host element 108 is such that section 150 can be inserted into the chamber 142 of the release selection element 124. In the second position, section 148 of the host element 108 prevents the host element 108 from being pushed too far into the release selection element 124.

[0167] The consumer may move the flavor element 104 from the second position to the first position by pulling (indicated by arrow 152) on the host element 108. The consumer may grasp the host element 108 at section 148, particularly at the section that extends radially beyond the release selection element 124.

[0168] The flavor element 104 embodiments of FIGS. 5A-5C may be coupled to the aerosol generation device 102 via a release selection element 124, for example at the proximal end of the device 102.

[0169] FIG. 6C shows a further embodiment of the system 100 in which the flavor element 104 of the embodiment shown in FIG. 5C is mounted on the aerosol generating device 102 in a central position.

[0170] In the embodiment of FIGS. 6A-6C, the consumer may freely choose the attachment location of the flavor element 104 along the longitudinal axis of the device 102.

[0171] In the embodiments of Figures 6A-6C, the inner element may comprise an attachment means (not shown). In Figure 6A, the host element 108 may comprise the attachment means 130, while in Figures 6B and 6C, the release selection element 124 may comprise the attachment means 130. Preferably, the attachment means 130 may be attached to an inner wall of such element. The attachment means 130 may couple such element to the device 102.

[0172] FIG. 7 illustrates one embodiment of the aerosol generation system of the present invention in which the flavor element 104 is removably attached at the mouthpiece 154 .

[0173] 7A and 7B show a mouthpiece 154 with flavor elements 104. The flavor elements 104 are stripes positioned around the periphery of the mouthpiece 154 that contain a flavor source.

[0174] 7C shows an aerosol generation system with a mouthpiece 154. The mouthpiece 154 has an air outlet at the proximal end 156 of the mouthpiece 154.

[0175] In use, a consumer inhales the aerosol generated from the aerosol-forming substrate and contained within the mouthpiece 154 by drawing on the proximal end 156 of the mouthpiece 154, thereby obtaining a first consumption experience. A flavor is released from the flavor element 104. The consumer inhales the flavor through their nose, thereby obtaining a second consumption experience.

[0176] 8 shows one embodiment of an aerosol-generating system (aerosol-generating articles not shown) with sticker flavor elements 104. The illustrated embodiment includes three sticker flavor elements 104. The flavor elements 104 are attached at the proximal end of an aerosol-generating device 102. The aerosol-generating device 102 includes a cavity 158 into which an aerosol-generating article 106 can be inserted.

[0177] 9 shows an aerosol-generating system of the present invention comprising a first flavor element 204 and a second flavor element 304. The first flavor element 204 and the second flavor element 304 are coupled to the proximal end of the aerosol-generating device 102. The aerosol-generating article 106 is inserted into the cavity of the aerosol-generating device 102, as indicated by arrow 160.

Claims

1. 1. An aerosol generating system comprising: an aerosol-generating article; an aerosol generating device comprising a housing and an airflow channel for delivering an aerosol, the airflow channel being disposed within the housing; at least one flavor element configured to be removably attached to the housing of the aerosol generating device and configured to emit a flavor; The flavor element is configured not to be in fluid communication with the airflow channel when the flavor element is attached to the housing of the aerosol generating device, thereby allowing the flavor to be emitted from the flavor element separately from the aerosol in the airflow channel; the flavor element comprises at least one flavor source; the flavor element comprises a host element, the host element comprises the flavor source, the host element comprises at least one flavor outlet; the flavor element comprises a release selection element, and the release selection element and the host element have complementary attachment means for detachably connecting the release selection element and the host element.

2. 2. The aerosol generating system of claim 1, wherein the flavor element has an opening having a shape complementary to at least a portion of the housing, whereby the flavor element is removably attached to the housing by one or both of a form fit and a friction fit, and preferably the flavor element is ring-shaped.

3. 3. The aerosol generating system of claim 1, wherein the flavor element is configured to be removably attached to the periphery of the housing of the device or to the proximal end of the device.

4. 4. The aerosol generating system according to claim 1, wherein the housing has an outer wall, and the flavor element is attached to the outer wall of the housing.

5. 5. The aerosol generating system according to claim 1, wherein the flavor source is held within an adsorbent material.

6. An aerosol generation system as described in any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the flavor element comprises a gripping element, the gripping element having a first surface and a second surface, the first surface being arranged to at least partially contact the housing of the aerosol generation device when the flavor element is attached to the housing, and the second surface being configured to provide a friction fit with the host element.

7. An aerosol generation system as described in any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein one or both of the release selection element and the host element have at least one flavor outlet, and the one or both of the release selection element and the host element are configured so that the flavor is released from the flavor outlet.

8. 8. The aerosol generating system of claim 1, wherein one or both of the release selection element and the host element are configured to be movable between a first position and a second position, wherein in the first position the flavor element is configured to release the flavor from the flavor element, and in the second position the flavor element is configured to completely prevent the flavor from being released from the flavor element or at least limit the release of the flavor from the flavor element compared to the release of the flavor in the first position.

9. 9. The aerosol generating system of claim 8, wherein the complementary attachment means is configured to move one or both of the release selection element and the host element between the first position and the second position.

10. 10. The aerosol generation system of claim 8 or 9, wherein the host element has at least one recess and at least one protrusion, the recess containing the flavor source, and in the first position, the flavor outlet of the release selection element is aligned with the recess of the host element, and in the second position, the flavor outlet of the release selection element is aligned with the protrusion of the host element.

11. 11. An aerosol generating system according to any one of claims 1 to 10, comprising at least a first flavour element and a second flavour element, the first flavour element being configured to emit a first flavour and the second flavour element being configured to emit a second flavour, preferably the first flavour being different from the second flavour.

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