Aerosol generator with plug outlet

Abstract

The present invention relates to an aerosol generator comprising a heating module. The heating module is configured to receive a substrate plug containing an aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol generator further comprises a movable insertion element and an axially movable extraction element. The insertion element and the extraction element are mechanically coupled so that they can move together between an open position and a closed position. The insertion element is configured to push the substrate plug distally into the heating module when moving from the open position to the closed position. The extraction element is configured to push the substrate plug proximal out of the heating module when moving from the closed position to the open position. The present invention further relates to an aerosol generation system.

Description

[[Technical Field]]

[0001] The present invention relates to an aerosol generating device and an aerosol generating system. [[Background Art]]

[0002] It is well known to provide an aerosol generating device for generating inhalable vapor. Such a device may be configured to heat the aerosol-forming substrate to a temperature at which one or more components of the aerosol-forming substrate volatilize without combusting the aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-forming substrate may be provided as part of a substrate plug. The substrate plug may have a rod shape for insertion of the substrate plug into a cavity such as a heating chamber of the aerosol generating device. A heating element may be arranged in or around the heating chamber to heat the aerosol-forming substrate when an aerosol-generating article is inserted into the heating chamber of the aerosol generating device. [[Summary of the Invention]]

[0003] It is desirable to have an aerosol generating device provided with an improved insertion portion for a substrate plug into the aerosol generating device. It is desirable to have an aerosol generating device provided with an improved extraction portion for a substrate plug from the aerosol generating device.

[0004] According to one embodiment of the present invention, there is provided an aerosol generating device that may include a heating module. The heating module may be configured to receive a substrate plug containing an aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol generating device may further comprise a movable insertion element and an axially movable extraction element. The insertion element and the extraction element may be mechanically coupled such that the insertion element and the extraction element are movable together between an open position and a closed position. The insertion element may be configured to push the substrate plug distally into the heating module when moving from the open position to the closed position. The extraction element may be configured to push the substrate plug proximally out of the heating module when moving from the closed position to the open position.

[0005] According to one embodiment of the present invention, an aerosol generator is provided, comprising a heating module. The heating module is configured to receive a substrate plug comprising an aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol generator further comprises a movable insertion element and an axially movable extraction element. The insertion element and the extraction element are mechanically coupled so that they are movable together between an open position and a closed position. The insertion element is configured to push the substrate plug distally into the heating module when moving from the open position to the closed position. The extraction element is configured to push the substrate plug proximal out of the heating module when moving from the closed position to the open position.

[0006] The combined insertion and extraction elements allow for improved insertion of the substrate plug into the heating module when the insertion and extraction elements are moved from the open position to the closed position. Furthermore, the combined insertion and extraction elements allow for improved removal of the substrate plug from the heating module when the insertion and extraction elements are moved from the closed position to the open position. The mechanical coupling between the insertion and extraction elements facilitates the movement of these two elements together without the need to move the insertion element separately from the extraction element.

[0007] The heating module may include a heating element. The heating module may be hollow. The heating module may be tubular. The heating module may be cylindrical. The heating module may include a heating chamber. The heating element may be arranged at least partially around the heating chamber of the heating module. The heating element may be arranged at least partially, preferably completely, around the heating chamber. The heating chamber of the heating module may have an inner diameter corresponding to the outer diameter of the substrate plug.

[0008] A substrate plug may be an aerosol-generating article. A substrate plug may comprise a substrate portion, which includes an aerosol-forming substrate. A substrate plug may comprise one or more further portions, and further portions such as a cooling portion. The cooling portion may have a hollow tubular shape. The cooling portion may be located downstream of the substrate portion. A filter portion, indicated as a mouthpiece filter, may be located as the downstream portion of the substrate plug. A further filter portion may be indicated as a front plug, and may be located at the upstream end of the substrate plug. Chipping paper may surround one or more portions of the substrate plug. However, in a particularly preferred embodiment, the substrate plug comprises only a substrate portion and optionally wrapping paper arranged around the substrate portion. In other words, in a particularly preferred embodiment, the substrate plug is a very simple substrate plug that essentially consists only of an aerosol-forming substrate without requiring further portions such as a further substrate portion or a cooling portion.

[0009] The insertion element may be configured to press the substrate plug into the heating chamber of the heating module. The insertion element may have a distal end face configured to press the substrate plug into the heating chamber of the heating module. The distal end face may be flat. The distal end face may be ring-shaped. The airflow channel may be arranged so as to be surrounded by the ring-shaped distal end face. The distal end face may be circular. The outer diameter of the distal end face may correspond to the outer diameter of the substrate plug. The insertion element may be cylindrical. The outer diameter of the insertion element may correspond to the outer diameter of the substrate plug.

[0010] The extraction element may be configured to push the substrate plug out of the heating chamber of the heating module. The extraction element may have a proximal end face configured to push the substrate plug out of the heating chamber of the heating module. The proximal end face of the extraction element may be flat. The proximal end face may be ring-shaped. The airflow channel may be arranged to surround the ring-shaped proximal end face. The proximal end face may be circular. The outer diameter of the proximal end face may correspond to the outer diameter of the substrate plug. The extraction element may be cylindrical. The outer diameter of the extraction element may correspond to the outer diameter of the substrate plug.

[0011] Movement of the insertion and removal elements from the open position to the closed position can be a closing movement. This movement can be distal. Movement of the insertion and removal elements from the closed position to the open position can be an opening movement. This movement can be proximal.

[0012] In the open position, the substrate plug may be insertable and removable from the aerosol generator. In the closed position, the substrate plug may be positioned within a heating module so as to be heated for aerosol generation.

[0013] The aerosol generator may include a controller that prevents the heating module from operating in the open position of the insertion and extraction elements. The controller of the aerosol generator may be configured to allow the heating module to operate in the closed position.

[0014] The substrate plug receiving region may be positioned between the insertion element and the extraction element.

[0015] The heating module may be fluidly connected to a substrate plug receiving region. The substrate plug receiving region may have a cylindrical shape. The substrate plug receiving region may have a shape corresponding to the outer circumference of the substrate plug. In other words, the substrate plug may be positioned on the same plane within the substrate plug receiving region. This can improve the heating efficiency of the aerosol-forming substrate of the substrate plug during heating of the aerosol-forming substrate by the heating module in the closed position.

[0016] The inner diameter of the substrate plug receiving region may correspond to the outer diameter of the substrate plug. The outer diameter of the substrate plug receiving region may correspond to the outer diameter of the insertion element. The outer diameter of the substrate plug receiving region may correspond to the outer diameter of the extraction element.

[0017] The base plug receiving region may have an inner diameter of 2 mm to 12 mm, preferably 4 mm to 10 mm, more preferably 5 mm to 8 mm. The length of the base plug receiving region may be 6 mm to 24 mm, preferably 8 mm to 20 mm, more preferably 10 mm to 18 mm. The base plug may have an outer diameter of 2 mm to 12 mm, preferably 4 mm to 10 mm, more preferably 5 mm to 8 mm. The length of the base plug may be 6 mm to 24 mm, preferably 8 mm to 20 mm, more preferably 10 mm to 18 mm.

[0018] The substrate plug receiving region may be accessible in the open position for insertion and removal of the substrate plug.

[0019] The substrate plug receiving region may be located in the center of the heating module and, in the closed position, may be configured as a heating chamber. In the closed position, the substrate plug receiving region may be a heating chamber of the heating module, or may occupy the same space as a heating chamber of the heating module.

[0020] One or both of the insertion and extraction elements may be manufactured from a heat-resistant material. One or both of the insertion and extraction elements may be manufactured from a material having low thermal conductivity. One or both of the insertion and extraction elements may be manufactured from a material selected from ceramic materials or temperature-resistant polymers (e.g., PEEK, PSU, etc.).

[0021] The insertion force of the insertion element toward the substrate plug may be 0.1N to 30N, preferably 0.3N to 10N, and more preferably 1N to 5N. The extraction force of the extraction element toward the substrate plug may be 0.1N to 30N, preferably 0.3N to 10N, and more preferably 1N to 5N.

[0022] The insertion element may have an airflow channel that is in fluid contact with the substrate plug receiving region.

[0023] The airflow channel of the insertion element may be arranged along the longitudinal axis of the insertion element. In other words, the airflow channel of the insertion element may be a central airflow channel of the insertion element. The longitudinal axis of the insertion element may be collinear with the longitudinal axis of the base plug receiving region. The longitudinal axis of the base plug receiving region may be collinear with the longitudinal axis of the extraction element.

[0024] The extraction element may comprise an airflow channel in fluid communication with the base plug receiving region.

[0025] The airflow channel of the extraction element may be arranged along the longitudinal axis of the extraction element. In other words, the airflow channel of the extraction element may be a central airflow channel of the extraction element.

[0026] The insertion element may be a part of a mouthpiece of an aerosol generating device. The insertion element may be formed integrally with the mouthpiece. Accordingly, the mouthpiece may have a dual function of allowing a user to draw generated aerosol through the mouthpiece, and inserting the base plug into the heating module by means of the mouthpiece.

[0027] The aerosol generating device may further comprise a connecting shaft that mechanically connects the insertion element and the extraction element. The connecting shaft may have an extension axis that may be parallel to the extension axis of one or both of the insertion element and the extraction element.

[0028] The connecting shaft may be longitudinal. The connecting shaft may be rigid. The connecting shaft may have a distal end. The distal end of the connecting shaft may be mechanically connected to the extraction element. The connecting shaft may have a proximal end. The proximal end of the connecting shaft may be mechanically connected to the insertion element.

[0029] The insertion element may be pivotally mounted on the connecting shaft to allow pivotal movement in a plane perpendicular to the extension axis of the connecting shaft. The extension axis of the connecting shaft may be parallel to or along the longitudinal axis of the base plug receiving region.

[0030] The insertion element may be rotated in a plane perpendicular to the extension axis of the connecting shaft to allow the base plug to be inserted into the base plug receiving region. Insertion of the base plug may be enabled distally from a position proximal of the base plug receiving region into the base plug receiving region. After inserting the base plug into the base plug receiving region, the insertion element may be rotated back to the initial position, whereby the base plug insertion region may be closed. The insertion element may then allow the base plug to be pushed into the heating module by distal movement of the insertion element.

[0031] The insertion element may be configured to be axially movable.

[0032] The insertion element may be configured for two separate movements. The first movement may be an axial movement that enables pushing the base plug into the heating module. The second movement may be a pivoting movement for opening the insertion element for insertion of the base plug into the base plug receiving region and removal of the base plug from the base plug receiving region. When the insertion element is pivotably moved to the open position, this may be referred to as the open position of the insertion element. When the insertion element is rotated back to the initial position and pushed distally to push the base plug into the heating module, this may be referred to as the closed position. In other words, transition from the open position to the closed position may comprise two movements of the insertion element: a pivoting movement to close the base plug receiving region, and a distal axial movement to push the base plug into the heating module.

[0033] The insertion element may be pivotably mounted on the aerosol generating device to enable pivoting movement between an open position and a closed position in a plane parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generating device.

[0034] This is an alternative to the pivotal movement of the insertion element in a plane perpendicular to the extension axis of the connecting shaft. In this embodiment, the bipartite motion can be replaced by a single pivotal movement of the insertion element in a plane parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generator. This pivotal movement can open the substrate plug receiving area, which may be shown as the open position. The pivotal movement simultaneously allows the removal element to push the substrate plug out of the heating module, enabling the removal of the used substrate plug. A closing pivotal movement of the insertion element can enable the closing of the substrate plug receiving area. Simultaneously, the closing pivotal movement can push the substrate plug into the heating module, which may be shown as the closed position.

[0035] The pivotal movement of the inserted element can be a lid-like movement between an open position and a closed position.

[0036] Particularly preferably, the insertion element is positioned within the mouthpiece or is integrally formed with the mouthpiece, and the mouthpiece can be removed between the open and closed positions during lid-like movement.

[0037] The insertion element may be mechanically connected to the extraction element via an elastic strip, preferably via a metal strip.

[0038] The elastic strip may allow the pivotal movement of the insertion element to be converted into the axial movement of the extraction element. In other words, the pivotally opening movement of the insertion element can create a tensile force on the extraction element, thereby pushing the substrate plug out of the heating module. The pivotally closing movement of the insertion element can create a force that pushes the extraction element into the closed position.

[0039] The elastic strip may be sufficiently rigid to allow the transmission of mechanical force from the pivotal movement of the insertion element to the extraction element. Providing the elastic strip as a metal strip may be particularly preferable for this purpose.

[0040] The insertion element may have a rounded portion on which the elastic strip can be positioned such that the opening pivot movement of the insertion element leads to a pulling action of the elastic strip onto the extraction element, preferably the closing pivot movement of the insertion element leads to a pushing action of the elastic strip onto the extraction element.

[0041] The rounded portion can act as a lever, shifting the pivotal movement of the insertion element toward the axial movement of the extraction element. This can be achieved by passing an elastic strip over the rounded portion. The rounded portion can also be part of the mouthpiece hinge, connecting the mouthpiece to the rest of the aerosol generator.

[0042] The present invention further relates to an aerosol generator which may have a side opening configured for inserting and removing a substrate plug containing an aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol generator may further include a heating module configured to receive a substrate plug. The heating module may be axially movable between an open position and a closed position. The side opening may be blocked by the heating module when the heating module is in the closed position. The side opening may be opened to receive or remove a substrate plug when the heating module is in the open position.

[0043] The present invention further relates to an aerosol generator having a side opening configured for inserting and removing a substrate plug containing an aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol generator further comprises a heating module configured to receive a substrate plug. The heating module is axially movable between a closed position and an open position. The side opening is blocked by the heating module when the heating module is in the closed position. The side opening opens to receive or remove a substrate plug when the heating module is in the open position.

[0044] Side openings may be located in the housing of the aerosol generator. Side openings can fluidly connect the surrounding environment to the substrate plug receiving area.

[0045] The heating module may be movable distally from a closed position to an open position. Alternatively, but less preferably, the heating module may be movable proximal from a closed position to an open position.

[0046] In other words, in contrast to the first two embodiments described herein, in which the heating module may be stationary and the substrate plug receiving region may be movable from a closed position to an open position and vice versa, the heating module may be movable in this embodiment. At the same time, the substrate plug receiving region may remain in the same position.

[0047] The heating module may be configured to slide over the substrate plug so as to receive the substrate plug when the substrate plug is inserted through the side opening and when the heating module moves from an open position to a closed position.

[0048] The heating module may be mechanically connected to a sliding shaft. The sliding shaft may be mechanically connected to a sliding button located on the outside of the aerosol generator.

[0049] The operation of the sliding button can move the sliding shaft. Therefore, the user may manually move the heating module from the closed position to the open position, and vice versa.

[0050] The heating module may include a heating element positioned at least partially around a cavity configured to receive a substrate plug.

[0051] The present invention further relates to an aerosol generating apparatus as described herein, and to an aerosol generating system comprising a substrate plug containing an aerosol-forming substrate.

[0052] The aerosol-forming substrate can be a solid.

[0053] As used herein, the terms “proximal,” “distal,” “downstream,” and “upstream” are used to describe the relative position of a component or part of a component of an aerosol generator with respect to the direction in which the user draws the aerosol generator during its use.

[0054] An aerosol generator may have an oral end through which, during use, aerosols pass and exit the aerosol generator, delivered to the user. The oral end may also be called the proximal end. During use, the user inhales the proximal end, or oral end, of the aerosol generator to inhale the aerosol generated by the aerosol generator. Alternatively, the user may directly inhale a substrate plug, or a substrate plug inserted into an opening, at the proximal end of the aerosol generator. The opening at the proximal end may be an opening in a cavity. The cavity may be configured to receive a substrate plug. An aerosol generator has a distal end opposite to the proximal end, or oral end. The proximal end, or oral end, of the aerosol generator may also be called the downstream end, and the distal end of the aerosol generator may also be called the upstream end. Components or parts of an aerosol generator may be described as being upstream or downstream of each other, based on their relative positions between the proximal end, downstream end, or mouth end of the aerosol generator and the distal end or upstream end of the aerosol generator.

[0055] As used herein, “aerosol generator” refers to a device that generates an aerosol by interacting with an aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-forming substrate may be a part of a substrate plug, for example, a part of a smoking article. The aerosol generator may be a smoking device that interacts with the aerosol-forming substrate of a substrate plug to generate an aerosol that can be directly inhaled into the user's lungs through the user's mouth. The aerosol generator may be a holder. The device may be an electrically heated smoking device. The aerosol generator may comprise a housing, an electrical circuit, a power supply, a heating chamber, and a heating element.

[0056] With reference to the present invention, as used herein, the term “smoking” does not refer to conventional smoking in which an aerosol-forming substrate is completely or at least partially burned, with reference to an apparatus, article, system, substrate, or otherwise. The aerosol generating apparatus of the present invention is configured 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 to form an inhalable aerosol.

[0057] The aerosol generator may include an electrical circuit. The electrical circuit may include a microprocessor, which may be a programmable microprocessor. The microprocessor may be part of a controller. The electrical circuit may include 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 following the startup of the aerosol generator, or intermittently, for example, with each smoke extraction. 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 in accordance with the electrical resistance of the heating element.

[0058] An aerosol generator may have a power source (typically a battery) within its main body. 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 (e.g., 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 for the storage of energy sufficient for one or more use experiences. For example, the power source may have a capacity sufficient to continuously generate aerosol for about 6 minutes, or for a time period that is a multiple of 6 minutes. In another embodiment, the power source may have a capacity sufficient to provide a predetermined number of fume extractions or discontinuous operation of the heating element.

[0059] The cavity of the aerosol generator may have an open end into which a substrate plug is inserted. The open end may be the proximal end. The cavity may have a closed end opposite the open end. The closed end may be the base of the cavity. The closed end may be closed except for providing an air opening located within the base. The base of the cavity may be flat. The base of the cavity may be circular. The base of the cavity may be located upstream of the cavity. The open end may be located downstream of the cavity. The cavity may have an extended extension. The cavity may have a longitudinal central axis. The longitudinal axis may be the direction extending between the open end and the closed end along the longitudinal central axis. The longitudinal central axis of the cavity may be parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generator.

[0060] The cavity 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 substrate plug that is received inside the cavity. 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 substrate plug.

[0061] The airflow channel may extend through the cavity. Ambient air may be drawn into the aerosol generator, into the cavity, and towards the user through the airflow channel. A mouthpiece may be positioned downstream of the cavity, or the user may directly inhale the base plug. The airflow channel may extend through the mouthpiece.

[0062] In any aspect of this disclosure, the heating element may include an electrically resistive material. Suitable electrically resistive materials include, but are not limited to, semiconductors such as doped ceramics, "conductive" ceramics (e.g., molybdenum disilide), carbon, graphite, metals, alloys, and composite materials made of ceramic and metallic materials. Such composite materials may include doped or undoped ceramics. A suitable example of a doped ceramic is doped silicon carbide. Suitable examples of metals include titanium, zirconium, tantalum platinum, gold, and silver. Suitable examples of metallic alloys include stainless steel, nickel-containing, cobalt-containing, chromium-containing, aluminum-containing, titanium-containing, zirconium-containing, hafnium-containing, niobium-containing, molybdenum-containing, tantalum-containing, tungsten-containing, tin-containing, gallium-containing, manganese-containing, gold-containing, and iron-containing alloys, as well as nickel, iron, cobalt, stainless steel-based superalloys, Timetal®, and iron-manganese-aluminum alloys. In composite materials, the electrically resistive material may be optionally embedded in, encapsulated in, or coated with an insulating material, depending on the required energy transfer dynamics and external physicochemical properties, or vice versa.

[0063] As described, in any aspect of this disclosure, the heating element may be part of an aerosol generator. The aerosol generator may comprise 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 preferred 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 parts or an electrically resistive metal tube. Alternatively, the internal heating element may be one or more heating needles or rods passing through the center of the aerosol-forming substrate. Other alternatives include heating wires or filaments, e.g., Ni-Cr (nickel-chromium), platinum, tungsten, or alloy wires, or heating plates. Optionally, the internal heating element may be located in or on a rigid carrier material. In one such embodiment, the electrically resistive heating element may be formed using a metal having a defined relationship between temperature and resistivity. In such exemplary devices, the metal may be formed as a track on a suitable insulating material such as ceramic, and then sandwiched between other insulating materials such as glass. A heater formed in this manner can be used during operation for both heating the heating element and monitoring its temperature.

[0064] The external heating element can take any preferred 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 foils may be shaped to fit around the periphery of the substrate receiving cavity. 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 substrate of a preferred shape using a coating technique such as plasma deposition. The external heating element may also be formed using a metal having a defined relationship between temperature and resistivity. In such an exemplary device, the metal may be formed as a track between two layers of a preferred insulating material. An external heating element formed in this manner may be used during operation for both heating the external heating element and monitoring its temperature.

[0065] As an alternative to electrically resistive heating elements, heating elements can be configured as inductive heating elements. Inductive heating elements may comprise an induction coil and a susceptor. Generally, a susceptor is a material that has the ability to generate heat when penetrated by an alternating magnetic field. When located in an alternating magnetic field, if the susceptor is conductive, then typically eddy currents are induced by the alternating magnetic field. If the susceptor is magnetic, then typically another effect contributing to heating is generally called hysteresis loss. Hysteresis loss arises primarily from the movement of magnetic domain blocks within the susceptor, because these magnetic orientations align with the alternating inductive magnetic fields. Another effect contributing to hysteresis loss is when magnetic domains expand or contract within the susceptor. Generally, all these changes occurring at or below the nanoscale within the susceptor are called "hysteresis loss" because they generate heat within the susceptor. Therefore, if the susceptor is both magnetic and conductive, both hysteresis loss and eddy current generation will contribute to the heating of the susceptor. If the susceptor is magnetic but not conductive, then hysteresis loss will be the only means by which the susceptor will be heated when penetrated by an alternating magnetic field. According to the present invention, the susceptor can be conductive, magnetic, or both conductive and magnetic. An alternating magnetic field generated by one or more induction coils heats the susceptor, which then transfers heat to the aerosol-forming substrate so that an aerosol is formed. Heat transfer can be mainly by conduction. Such heat transfer is best when the susceptor is in close thermal contact with the aerosol-forming substrate.

[0066] As used herein, the terms “aerosol-generating article” or “substrate plug” refer to an article or plug comprising an aerosol-forming substrate capable of releasing volatile compounds that can form aerosols. For example, a substrate plug may be a smoking article or plug that generates an aerosol that can be inhaled directly into the user's lungs through the user’s mouth. A substrate plug may be disposable.

[0067] As used herein, the term “aerosol-forming substrate” refers to a substrate having the ability to release one or more volatile compounds that can form aerosols. Such volatile compounds may be released by heating the aerosol-forming substrate. Conveniently, the aerosol-forming substrate may be part of a substrate plug or a smoking article.

[0068] The aerosol-forming substrate may be a solid aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-forming substrate may contain both solid and liquid components. The aerosol-forming substrate may contain tobacco-containing materials that include volatile tobacco flavoring compounds released from the substrate upon heating. The aerosol-forming substrate may contain non-tobacco materials. The aerosol-forming substrate may contain aerosol-forming bodies that facilitate the formation of high-density, stable aerosols. Examples of suitable aerosol-forming bodies include glycerin and propylene glycol.

[0069] The aerosol generating substrate preferably comprises homogenized tobacco material, an aerosol forming agent, and water. Providing homogenized tobacco material may improve aerosol generation, the nicotine content of the aerosol generated during heating of the substrate plug, and the flavor profile. Specifically, the process of producing homogenized tobacco involves grinding the tobacco leaves, which allows for more effective release of nicotine and flavoring agents during heating.

[0070] A non-exclusive list of non-limiting embodiments is provided below. One or more features of these embodiments may be combined with one or more features of any of the features described above, for example, one or more features of other embodiments, forms, or aspects described herein.

[0071] Example 1. Aerosol generator, A heating module configured to receive a substrate plug containing an aerosol-forming substrate, Movable insertion elements, It comprises an extraction element that is movable in the axial direction, An aerosol generator comprising an insertion element and an extraction element, which are mechanically coupled so that the insertion element and the extraction element can move together between an open position and a closed position, and which is configured to push the substrate plug distally into the heating module when the insertion element moves from the open position to the closed position, and which is configured to push the substrate plug proximal out of the heating module when the extraction element moves from the closed position to the open position.

[0072] Example 2. The aerosol generator according to Example 1, wherein the substrate plug receiving region is located between the insertion element and the extraction element.

[0073] Example 3. The aerosol generator according to Example 2, wherein the substrate plug receiving region is accessible for insertion and removal of the substrate plug in the open position.

[0074] Example 4. The aerosol generator according to Example 2 or 3, wherein the substrate plug receiving region is centrally located within the heating module and configured as a heating chamber in the closed position.

[0075] Example 5. An aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 2 to 4, wherein the insertion element is in fluid contact with the substrate plug receiving region and comprises an airflow channel.

[0076] Example 6. An aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 2 to 5, wherein the extraction element is equipped with an airflow channel that is in fluid contact with the substrate plug receiving region.

[0077] Example 7. An aerosol generator according to any of the prior embodiments, wherein the insertion element is in direct contact with the substrate plug when the substrate plug is received inside the aerosol generator.

[0078] Example 8. An aerosol generator according to any of the prior embodiments, wherein the extraction element is in direct contact with the substrate plug when the substrate plug is received inside the aerosol generator.

[0079] Example 9. An aerosol generator according to any of the prior embodiments, wherein the insertion element is part of the mouthpiece of the aerosol generator.

[0080] Example 10. An aerosol generator according to any of the prior embodiments, further comprising a connecting shaft that mechanically connects an insertion element and an extraction element, preferably the connecting shaft having an extension axis parallel to the extension axis of one or both of the insertion element and the extraction element.

[0081] Example 11. The aerosol generator according to Example 10, wherein the insertion element is pivotably mounted on the connecting shaft, allowing pivotal movement in a plane perpendicular to the extension axis of the connecting shaft.

[0082] Example 12. An aerosol generator according to any of the prior embodiments, wherein the insertion element is configured to be movable in the axial direction.

[0083] Example 13. An aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 1 to 9, wherein the insertion element is pivotably mounted on the aerosol generator, allowing pivotal movement between an open position and a closed position in a plane parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generator.

[0084] Example 14. The aerosol generator according to Example 13, wherein the pivotal movement of the insertion element is a lid-like movement between an open position and a closed position.

[0085] Example 15. The aerosol generator according to Example 13 or 14, wherein the insertion element is mechanically connected to the extraction element via an elastic strip, preferably via a metal strip.

[0086] Example 16. The aerosol generator according to Example 15, wherein the insertion element has a rounded portion on which an elastic strip is positioned such that pivotal movement of the opening of the insertion element leads to a pulling action of the elastic strip onto the extraction element, and preferably, closed pivotal movement of the insertion element leads to a pushing action of the elastic strip onto the extraction element.

[0087] Example 17. Aerosol generator, A side opening configured for inserting and removing a substrate plug containing an aerosol-forming substrate, A heating module configured to receive a substrate plug, comprising a heating module that is axially movable between an open position and a closed position, An aerosol generator in which a side opening is blocked by the heating module when the heating module is in the closed position, and the side opening is open to receive a substrate plug or to remove a substrate plug when the heating module is in the open position.

[0088] Example 18. The aerosol generator according to Example 17, wherein the heating module is movable distally from a closed position to an open position.

[0089] Example 19. The aerosol generator according to Example 17 or 18, wherein the heating module is configured to be slidable over the substrate plug so as to receive the substrate plug when the substrate plug is inserted through a side opening and when the heating module moves from an open position to a closed position.

[0090] Example 20. An aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 17 to 19, wherein the heating module is mechanically connected to a sliding shaft, and preferably the sliding shaft is mechanically connected to a sliding button located on the outside of the aerosol generator.

[0091] Example 21. An aerosol generator according to any of the prior embodiments, wherein the heating module comprises a heating element positioned at least partially around a cavity, configured to receive a substrate plug.

[0092] Example 22. An aerosol generating system comprising an aerosol generating device described in any of the prior examples and a substrate plug containing an aerosol forming substrate.

[0093] Example 23. The aerosol generation system according to Example 22, wherein the aerosol-forming substrate is solid.

[0094] Features described in relation to one embodiment may be equally applicable to other embodiments of the present invention.

[0095] The present invention will be further described with reference to the following attached drawings, which are for illustrative purposes only. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0096] [Figure 1A] Figures 1A and 1B show a first embodiment of an aerosol generator comprising an insertion element and an extraction element. [Figure 1B] Figures 1A and 1B show a first embodiment of an aerosol generator comprising an insertion element and an extraction element. [Figure 2A] Figures 2A to 2E show the insertion and removal of the substrate plug in the aerosol generator of the first embodiment. [Figure 2B] Figures 2A to 2E show the insertion and removal of the substrate plug in the aerosol generator of the first embodiment. [Figure 2C] Figures 2A to 2E show the insertion and removal of the substrate plug in the aerosol generator of the first embodiment. [Figure 2D] Figures 2A to 2E show the insertion and removal of the substrate plug in the aerosol generator of the first embodiment. [Figure 2E]Figures 2A to 2E show the insertion and removal of the substrate plug in the aerosol generator of the first embodiment. [Figure 3A] Figures 3A and 3B show a second embodiment of the aerosol generator in which the mouthpiece is pivotably mounted on the main body of the aerosol generator. [Figure 3B] Figures 3A and 3B show a second embodiment of the aerosol generator in which the mouthpiece is pivotably mounted on the main body of the aerosol generator. [Figure 4A] Figures 4A to 4E show the insertion and removal of the substrate plug in the aerosol generator of the second embodiment. [Figure 4B] Figures 4A to 4E show the insertion and removal of the substrate plug in the aerosol generator of the second embodiment. [Figure 4C] Figures 4A to 4E show the insertion and removal of the substrate plug in the aerosol generator of the second embodiment. [Figure 4D] Figures 4A to 4E show the insertion and removal of the substrate plug in the aerosol generator of the second embodiment. [Figure 4E] Figures 4A to 4E show the insertion and removal of the substrate plug in the aerosol generator of the second embodiment. [Figure 5A] Figures 5A and 5B show a third embodiment of the aerosol generator in which the mouthpiece is stationary, the heating module is axially movable, and the side opening is provided within the body of the aerosol generator. [Figure 5B] Figures 5A and 5B show a third embodiment of the aerosol generator in which the mouthpiece is stationary, the heating module is axially movable, and the side opening is provided within the body of the aerosol generator. [Figure 6A] Figures 6A to 6E show the insertion and removal of the substrate plug in the aerosol generator of the third embodiment. [Figure 6B]Figures 6A to 6E show the insertion and removal of the substrate plug in the aerosol generator of the third embodiment. [Figure 6C] Figures 6A to 6E show the insertion and removal of the substrate plug in the aerosol generator of the third embodiment. [Figure 6D] Figures 6A to 6E show the insertion and removal of the substrate plug in the aerosol generator of the third embodiment. [Figure 6E] Figures 6A to 6E show the insertion and removal of the substrate plug in the aerosol generator of the third embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0097] Figures 1A and 1B show a first embodiment of the aerosol generator 10. The aerosol generator 10 comprises a mouthpiece 12 and a body 14. The mouthpiece element 12 comprises an insertion element 16. An extraction element 18 is located inside the body 14. The body 14 may further comprise components such as a power supply and a controller configured to control the supply of electrical energy from the power source to the heating element.

[0098] The insertion element 16 is integrally formed with the mouthpiece 12. The insertion element 16 is a tubular element. The airflow channel 20 is located in the center of the insertion element 16. The airflow channel 20 continues through the mouthpiece 12 so that the user can inhale the aerosol generated by the aerosol generator 10. The insertion element 16 protrudes from the mouthpiece 12 at its distal end. The insertion element 16 has a distal end face configured to contact a substrate plug 22, which contains an aerosol-forming substrate.

[0099] The base plug 22 occupies the space of the base plug receiving region 24, as shown in Figures 1A and 1B. The base plug receiving region 24 is located between the insertion element 16 and the extraction element 18. The base plug receiving region 24 is shaped to allow for the reception of the base plug 22.

[0100] The extraction element 18 is mechanically connected to the insertion element 16 via a connecting shaft 26. The connecting shaft 26 is mounted axially movable to the body 14 of the aerosol generator 10. The connecting shaft 26 is elongated. The connecting shaft 26 extends parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generator 10. The connecting shaft 26 is mechanically connected to the insertion element 16 via a mouthpiece 12. The connecting shaft 26 is firmly connected to the extraction element 18. Conversely, the insertion element 16 is rotatably mounted on the connecting shaft 26 in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generator 10. In the axial direction, the insertion element 16 is firmly mounted on the connecting shaft 26. This mounting arrangement, together with the connecting shaft 26, leads to simultaneous axial movement of the insertion element 16 and the extraction element 18.

[0101] The simultaneous axial movement of the insertion element 16 and the extraction element 18, along with the connecting shaft 26, is shown between Figure 1A and Figure 1B. In Figure 1A, the insertion element 16 and the extraction element 18 are in the closed position. In this position, the insertion element 16 and the extraction element 18 are in the distal position, and the substrate plug 22 is positioned and placed in the substrate plug receiving region 24 within the body 14 of the aerosol generator 10. A heating module 28 is located within the body 14. The heating module 28 includes a heating chamber, and the heating element is positioned at least partially around the heating chamber. The heating chamber is the space (speat) occupied in Figure 1A by the substrate plug receiving region 24 and the substrate plug 22. In Figure 1B, the insertion element 16 and the extraction element 18 move proximal. This movement causes the extraction element 18 to push the substrate plug 22 out of the heating chamber of the heating module 28. As will be described in more detail with respect to Figure 2 below, the rotational movement of the mouthpiece 12, and therefore the insertion element 16, leads to the opening position of the insertion element 16 and the extraction element 18. In this position, the base plug 22 can be removed and replaced with an unused base plug 22. After returning the mouthpiece 12 and the insertion element 16 to the position shown in Figure 1B, the insertion element 16 can then push the base plug 22 back into the heating chamber of the heating module 28 and resume operation.

[0102] Similar to the structure of the insertion element 16, the extraction element 18 has a tubular shape that allows the airflow channel 20 to extend through the extraction element 18 to the center. Thus, the airflow channel 20 allows air to be drawn through the extraction element 18 into the heating chamber of the heating module 28 in the closed position. The air then flows through the insertion element 16 and the mouthpiece 12 and can be inhaled by the user.

[0103] Figures 2A-2E show the insertion and removal of the substrate plug 22 within the aerosol generator 10. In Figure 2A, an unused substrate plug 22 is inserted into the substrate plug receiving area 24. During insertion, the insertion element 16 and the removal element 18 are in their proximal positions. Furthermore, the insertion element 16 rotates to open, exposing the substrate plug receiving area 24. The substrate plug 22 can then be inserted into the substrate plug receiving area 24. In the next step, as shown in Figure 2B, the insertion element 16 rotates to close, covering the proximal end of the substrate plug 22. In other words, the insertion element 16 rotates to a fixed position, contacting the substrate plug receiving area 24, and then the substrate plug 22 can be pushed into the heating chamber of the heating mode. This step is shown in Figure 2C, where the insertion element 16 pushes the substrate plug 22 distally into the heating chamber of the heating module 28 for aerosol generation. Depending on the reference frame, the same action may be described as pushing the body 14 of the aerosol generator 10 proximal toward the fixed mouthpiece 12 and insertion element 16, instead of pushing the mouthpiece 12 and insertion element 16 distally toward the fixed body 14 of the aerosol generator 10.

[0104] Figure 2D shows the start of the removal of the used substrate plug 22. To facilitate removal, the mouthpiece 12, insertion element 16, and extraction element 18 move proximal to the extraction element 18, which pushes the substrate plug 22 out of the heating chamber of the heating module 28. Then, as shown in Figure 2E, the mouthpiece 12 and insertion element 16 are rotated and released so that the used substrate plug 22 can be removed. Then, as shown in Figure 2A, an unused substrate plug 22 can be inserted, and the process is repeated. As previously mentioned, the movement of the insertion element 16 and extraction element 18 is facilitated by connecting the two elements via a connecting shaft 26, such that the extraction element 18 can move only axially, while the insertion element 16 can move axially and rotate in a plane perpendicular to the axial direction.

[0105] Figures 3A and 3B show a second embodiment of the aerosol generator 10. In this embodiment, the mouthpiece 12 is pivotably mounted on the body 14 of the aerosol generator 10. The mouthpiece 12 has a rounded portion 30 adjacent to a hinge 32. The hinge 32 facilitates the pivotal mounting of the mouthpiece 12.

[0106] An elastic strip 34, preferably a metal strip, is provided so as to extend over a rounded portion 30. The elastic strip 34 establishes a mechanical connection between the mouthpiece 12, which includes the insertion element 16, and the extraction element 18. The rounded portion 30 acts as a lever so that pivotal opening movements of the mouthpiece 12 and the insertion element 16 are converted into axial movements of the extraction element 18 via the elastic strip 34. In other words, pivotal opening movement of the mouthpiece 12 leads to a pulling action on the extraction element 18. The pivotal opening movement of the mouthpiece 12 is a lid-like movement. The opening movement of the mouthpiece 12 lies in a plane parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generator 10.

[0107] Figure 3A shows the closed positions of the insertion element 16 and the extraction element 18. Similar to the closed position described in the first embodiment, the substrate plug 22 is in a closed position located within the heating chamber of the heating module 28 for aerosol generation. The elastic strip 34 is a straight line in this position. In Figure 3B, the mouthpiece 12 is open. As a result, the elastic strip 34 pulls the extraction element 18, which pushes the substrate plug 22 out of the body 14 of the aerosol generator 10. Due to the pivotal movement of the mouthpiece 12, the mouthpiece 12 and the insertion element 16 are not obstructed in their open position, so further rotation of the mouthpiece 12 is not required to access the dispensing substrate plug 22. Instead, the substrate plug 22 can be accessed and replaced with the mouthpiece 12 in the open position, as shown in Figure 3B.

[0108] Similar to Figures 2A-2E, Figures 4A-4E show the insertion of an unused substrate plug 22 (Figure 4A), the closing of the mouthpiece 12 from the open position to the closed position (Figure 4B), the operation of the aerosol generator 10 (Figure 4C), the opening of the mouthpiece 12 from the closed position to the open position (Figure 4D), and the removal of the used substrate plug 22 (Figure 4E). In contrast to the first embodiment, a single movement facilitates opening (pivot movement) instead of the two movement configurations of the first embodiment (axial movement followed by rotational movement). The same applies to the closing movement of the mouthpiece 12.

[0109] Figures 5A and 5B show a third embodiment of the aerosol generator 10. In this embodiment, the mouthpiece 12 is fixed. Instead, the heating module 28 is axially movable, and a side opening 38 is provided within the body 14 of the aerosol generator 10. The heating module 28 is slidably mounted on the heating module shaft 36 to facilitate the axial movement of the heating module 28. A biasing element 40 in the form of a spring biases the heating module 28 in the proximal direction. When the heating module 28 is in the proximal position, as shown in Figure 5A, the heating module 28 is in the open position. In this position, the substrate plug receiving area 24 is accessible from the outside of the aerosol generator 10 through the side opening 38. Thus, an unused substrate plug 22 can be inserted laterally into the side opening 38 and into the substrate plug receiving area 24. Subsequently, as shown in Figure 5B, the heating module 28 is pushed distally to the closed position against the biasing force of the biasing element 40. In this position, the heating module 28 is pressed against the substrate plug receiving area 24 so that the substrate plug 22 is positioned within the heating chamber of the heating module 28. In this position, the side wall 44 of the heating module 28 closes the side opening 38, disabling access to the substrate plug 22. The movement of the heating module 28, particularly the distal movement from the open position to the closed position, is facilitated by a push button 42 (shown in Figure 6, discussed below). The push button 42 is mechanically connected to the heating module 28. The push button 42 is located on the outer circumference of the aerosol generator 10 to allow the user to operate the push button 42.

[0110] Figures 6A–6E, similar to Figures 2A–2E and 4A–4E, show the insertion of an unused substrate plug 22 (Figure 6A), the closing of the side opening 38 from the open position to the closed position (Figure 6B), the operation of the aerosol generator 10 (Figure 6C), the opening of the side opening 38 from the closed position to the open position (Figure 6D), and the removal of a used substrate plug 22 (Figure 6E). Figure 6 further shows a push button 42 for activating the movement of the heating module 28, at least the distal (closed) movement of the heating module 28. Due to the biasing force of the biasing element 40, the proximal (open) movement of the heating module 28 may be automatic.

Claims

1. Aerosol generator, A heating module configured to receive a substrate plug containing an aerosol-forming substrate, Movable insertion elements, It comprises an extraction element that is movable in the axial direction, An aerosol generator comprising an insertion element and an extraction element, wherein the insertion element and the extraction element are mechanically coupled so that they can move together between an open position and a closed position, the insertion element is configured to push the substrate plug distally into the heating module when it moves from the open position to the closed position, and the extraction element is configured to push the substrate plug proximal out of the heating module when it moves from the closed position to the open position.

2. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the substrate plug receiving region is disposed between the insertion element and the extraction element.

3. The aerosol generator according to claim 2, wherein the substrate plug receiving region is accessible in the open position for insertion and removal of the substrate plug.

4. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the substrate plug receiving region is located in the center of the heating module and is configured as a heating chamber in the closed position.

5. The aerosol generator according to any of the prior claims, wherein one or both of the insertion element and the extraction element are in direct contact with the substrate plug when the substrate plug is received inside the aerosol generator.

6. The aerosol generator according to any of the prior claims, wherein the insertion element is a part of the mouthpiece of the aerosol generator.

7. The aerosol generator according to any of the prior claims, further comprising a connecting shaft that mechanically connects the insertion element and the extraction element, preferably the connecting shaft having an extension axis parallel to the extension axis of one or both of the insertion element and the extraction element, and more preferably the insertion element being pivotably mounted on the connecting shaft to enable pivotal movement in a plane perpendicular to the extension axis of the connecting shaft.

8. The aerosol generator according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the insertion element is pivotably mounted on the aerosol generator and enables pivotal movement between the open position and the closed position in a plane parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generator, and preferably the pivotal movement of the insertion element is a lid-like movement between the open position and the closed position.

9. The aerosol generator according to claim 8, wherein the insertion element is mechanically connected to the extraction element via an elastic strip, preferably via a metal strip.

10. The aerosol generator according to claim 9, wherein the insertion element has a rounded portion on which the elastic strip is positioned such that pivotal movement of the opening of the insertion element leads to a pulling action of the elastic strip toward the removal element, preferably, the closing pivotal movement of the insertion element leads to a pushing action of the elastic strip toward the removal element.

11. Aerosol generator, A side opening configured for inserting and removing a substrate plug containing an aerosol-forming substrate, A heating module configured to receive the aforementioned base plug, comprising a heating module that is movable in the axial direction between an open position and a closed position, Aerosol generator wherein the side opening is blocked by the heating module when the heating module is in the closed position, and the side opening opens to receive the substrate plug or to remove the substrate plug when the heating module is in the open position.

12. The aerosol generator according to claim 11, wherein the heating module is configured to be slidable on the substrate plug so as to receive the substrate plug when the substrate plug is inserted through the side opening and when the heating module is moved from the open position to the closed position.

13. The aerosol generator according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the heating module is mechanically connected to a sliding shaft, and preferably the sliding shaft is mechanically connected to a sliding button located outside the aerosol generator.

14. An aerosol generating system comprising an aerosol generating device according to any of the prior claims and a substrate plug containing an aerosol forming substrate.

15. The aerosol generating system according to claim 14, wherein the aerosol-forming substrate is a solid.

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