Aerosol generator comprising a supply element

Abstract

An aerosol generator (100) for an aerosol-generating device is provided, the aerosol generator (100) comprising a surface acoustic wave atomizer (102) and a supply element (104). The surface acoustic wave atomizer (102) comprises a substrate (106) having an active surface (110) defining at least one atomization region (116). The surface acoustic wave atomizer (102) also comprises at least one transducer (108) positioned on the active surface (110) of the substrate (106) for generating surface acoustic waves on the active surface (110) of the substrate (106). The supply element (104) is arranged to supply a liquid aerosol-forming substrate to the at least one atomization region (116) of the surface acoustic wave atomizer (102). The supply element (104) includes a channel (118) extending through the substrate (106) between an inlet (120) for receiving a supply of liquid aerosol-forming substrate and an outlet (124) positioned within at least one atomization region (116) of the active surface (110) of the substrate (106). The channel (118) has at least one of a cross-sectional area that varies in a direction from the inlet (120) to the outlet (124) and a portion that extends in a direction non-perpendicular to the active surface (110).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an aerosol generator for an aerosol generating device, each aerosol generator comprising a surface acoustic wave atomizer and a supply element. The present disclosure also relates to an aerosol generating device comprising the aerosol generator.

Background Art

[0002] Aerosol generation systems in which an aerosol forming substrate is heated rather than burned are well known in the art. Typically in such aerosol generation systems, the aerosol is generated by the transfer of energy from an aerosol generator of the aerosol generating device to the aerosol forming substrate. For example, a well-known aerosol generating device comprises a heater arranged to heat and vaporize a liquid aerosol forming substrate.

[0003] It is desirable to provide a consistent user experience for the user of an aerosol generating device. However, well-known aerosol generating devices may have inadequate control over the rate at which a liquid aerosol forming substrate is supplied to an aerosol generator such as a heater. Well-known aerosol generating devices may also have inadequate control over the rate at which the aerosol generator vaporizes the liquid aerosol forming substrate. Both of these drawbacks of well-known aerosol generating devices can result in an inconsistent user experience.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] It would be desirable to provide an aerosol generator for an aerosol generating device that provides improved control over the rate at which a liquid aerosol forming substrate is supplied to the atomization region of the aerosol generating device.

[0005] It would be desirable to provide an aerosol generator for an aerosol generating device that provides improved control over the rate at which a liquid aerosol forming substrate is atomized from the atomization region of the aerosol generating device.

Means for Solving the Problem

[0006] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, an aerosol generator for an aerosol generating device is provided. The aerosol generator includes a surface acoustic wave atomizer and a supply element. The surface acoustic wave atomizer includes a substrate having an active surface that defines at least one atomization region. The surface acoustic wave atomizer also includes at least one transducer positioned on the active surface of the substrate to generate a surface acoustic wave on the active surface of the substrate. The supply element is arranged to supply a liquid aerosol forming substrate to at least one atomization region of the surface acoustic wave atomizer. The supply element includes a channel extending through the substrate between an inlet for receiving the supply of the liquid aerosol forming substrate and an outlet positioned within at least one atomization region of the active surface of the substrate. The channel has at least one of a cross-sectional area that varies in a direction from the inlet to the outlet and a portion that extends in a direction non-perpendicular to the active surface.

[0007] The term "surface acoustic wave" is used herein to include Rayleigh waves, Lamb waves, and Love waves.

[0008] Advantageously, using a surface acoustic wave atomizer to atomize the liquid aerosol forming substrate provides improved control of the atomization process compared to other well-known aerosol generators such as electric heaters. In other words, the surface acoustic wave atomizer of the aerosol generator according to the present disclosure provides a reliable and consistent amount of atomized liquid aerosol forming substrate.

[0009] Advantageously, the power required by the surface acoustic wave atomizer to atomize the liquid aerosol forming substrate is less than the power required to atomize the same amount of liquid aerosol forming substrate using a well-known aerosol generator such as an electric heater.

[0010] Advantageously, the channels of the supply element of the aerosol generator according to the present disclosure facilitate improved control of the rate at which the liquid aerosol-forming substrate is supplied to at least one atomizer region of the surface acoustic wave atomizer. In particular, the channels of the supply element facilitate improved control of the flow rate of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate as compared to well-known liquid transfer elements such as capillary wicks. For example, one or more dimensions of the channel may be selected to provide a desired volumetric flow rate of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate through the channel.

[0011] Advantageously, the varying cross-sectional area of the channel may facilitate providing both a desired flow rate of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate through the channel and at least one of a desired size and shape of the channel at an outlet located within at least one atomization region. The desired size or shape of the channel at the outlet may be selected to increase or optimize the transfer of energy from the surface acoustic waves generated by the surface acoustic wave atomizer to the liquid aerosol-forming substrate within at least one atomization region.

[0012] Advantageously, a portion of the channel that extends non-vertically with respect to the active surface may provide an improvement in the mechanical stability of the substrate at the outlet.

[0013] At least a portion of the channel may have a substantially linear cross-sectional shape. In embodiments where the channel has a portion that extends non-vertically with respect to the active surface, the substantially linear portion of the channel preferably extends non-vertically with respect to the active surface. The substantially linear portion of the channel preferably slopes towards at least one transducer.

[0014] In an embodiment having a channel with a cross-sectional area that changes in the direction from the inlet to the outlet, it is preferable that at least a portion of the channel has a cross-sectional area that increases in the direction from the inlet to the outlet. Advantageously, a channel having a cross-sectional area that increases in the direction from the inlet to the outlet may increase or optimize the transfer of energy from the surface acoustic wave to the liquid aerosol-forming substrate in at least one atomization region. At least a portion of the channel having a cross-sectional area that increases in the direction from the inlet to the outlet is preferably near the outlet.

[0015] The channel may comprise a first portion that defines the minimum cross-sectional area of the channel to determine the flow rate of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate through the channel. The first portion preferably extends from the inlet. The channel may comprise a second portion having a different cross-sectional area compared to the first portion. The second portion preferably has a larger cross-sectional area than the first portion. The second portion preferably extends between the first portion and the outlet. The second portion preferably has a cross-sectional area that increases in the direction from the inlet to the outlet.

[0016] At least a portion of the channel may have a funnel shape, a conical shape, or a wedge shape. At least a portion of the channel having a funnel shape, a conical shape, or a wedge shape is preferably near the outlet.

[0017] In an embodiment where at least a portion of the channel has a funnel shape, the funnel shape may comprise a first portion having a substantially constant cross-sectional area extending from the inlet and a second portion extending between the first portion and the outlet, and the second portion has a cross-sectional area that increases in the direction from the inlet to the outlet. The second portion may have a conical shape. The second portion may have a frustoconical shape. The conical shape of the second portion may be a right circular cone shape. The conical shape of the second portion may be a conical shape with a curved side surface.

[0018] In embodiments where at least a portion of the channel has a conical shape, the conical shape may be a frustum shape. The truncated end of the conical shape may define an inlet. The conical shape may be a right circular cone shape. The conical shape may be a conical shape with a curved side surface.

[0019] Preferably, at least a portion of the channel is curved. Advantageously, the curved portion of the channel may facilitate the transfer of energy from the surface acoustic wave to the liquid aerosol forming substrate in at least one atomization region.

[0020] Preferably, at least a portion of the channel at the outlet is curved so as to form a continuous transition between the channel and the active surface of the substrate.

[0021] Preferably, at least a portion of the channel at the outlet extends tangentially to the active surface of the substrate. Advantageously, the portion of the channel extending tangentially at the outlet may facilitate the formation of a thin film of the liquid aerosol forming substrate within at least one atomization region on the active surface of the substrate. Advantageously, the thin film of the liquid aerosol forming substrate facilitates the aerosolization of the liquid aerosol forming substrate by the surface acoustic wave generated by the surface acoustic wave atomizer.

[0022] The outlet may comprise a first side surface and a second side surface opposite the first side surface, and the first side surface is positioned between the second side surface and at least one transducer. The channel may comprise a first outlet portion on the first side surface of the outlet and a second outlet portion on the second side surface of the outlet, the first outlet portion extending tangentially to the active surface, and the second outlet portion extending perpendicular to the active surface.

[0023] Advantageously, the first outlet portion extending tangentially to the active surface may increase or optimize the transfer of energy from the surface acoustic wave to the liquid aerosol forming substrate in at least one atomization region.

[0024] Advantageously, the first outlet portion extending tangentially to the active surface may facilitate the formation of a thin film of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate within at least one atomization region on the active surface of the substrate. Advantageously, the thin film of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate facilitates the atomization of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate by surface acoustic waves generated by the surface acoustic wave atomizer.

[0025] Advantageously, the second outlet portion extending perpendicular to the active surface may function as a reflector for reflecting surface acoustic waves towards at least one atomization region. Advantageously, reflecting surface acoustic waves towards at least one atomization region may reduce or minimize the power input required for at least one transducer. In other words, using a reflector to reflect surface acoustic waves towards at least one atomization region may increase the efficiency of the surface acoustic wave atomizer.

[0026] The substrate may define a recess at the active surface of the substrate. Preferably, the recess extends between at least one transducer and the outlet. Both the at least one transducer and the outlet are preferably positioned within the recess. The substrate may comprise a wall that at least partially defines the recess, and the wall extends perpendicular to the active surface. The wall is preferably positioned to reflect surface acoustic waves from the at least one transducer towards the outlet.

[0027] The channel preferably has a minimum cross-sectional area. The term "minimum cross-sectional area" is used herein to refer to the narrowest portion of the channel. The minimum cross-sectional area of the channel at least partially determines the flow rate of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate along the channel. The channel preferably has a minimum cross-sectional area of at least about 8×10 -3 square millimeters.

[0028] The supply element may comprise a single channel. In other words, the channel may be the only channel of the supply element.

[0029] The supply element may comprise a plurality of channels. The channel may be a first channel, and the supply element comprises at least one additional channel extending through the substrate.

[0030] The inlet may be a first inlet, and the outlet may be a first outlet. The supply element comprises at least one additional inlet for receiving the supply of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate and at least one additional outlet positioned within at least one atomization region of the active surface of the substrate. Preferably, each of the at least one additional channels extends between one of the additional inlets and one of the additional outlets. Each of the at least one additional channels preferably has a cross-sectional area that varies in the direction from its respective additional inlet to its respective additional outlet.

[0031] Each of the at least one additional channels may comprise any of the optional preferred features described herein with respect to the first channel.

[0032] Each of the channels, inlets, and outlets may be formed in the substrate using any suitable manufacturing process. Suitable processes include mechanical drilling, mechanical grinding (e.g., abrasive blasting using at least one of sand and water), laser ablation, laser drilling, etching (e.g., reactive ion etching), and combinations thereof.

[0033] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, an aerosol generator for an aerosol generating device is provided, the aerosol generator comprising a surface acoustic wave atomizer and a supply element. The surface acoustic wave atomizer comprises a substrate having an active surface defining at least one atomization region. The surface acoustic wave atomizer also comprises at least one transducer positioned on the active surface of the substrate for generating a surface acoustic wave on the active surface of the substrate. The supply element is arranged to supply a liquid aerosol forming substrate to at least one atomization region of the surface acoustic wave atomizer. The supply element comprises a plurality of interconnected channels extending through the substrate between at least one inlet for receiving a supply of at least one liquid aerosol forming substrate and at least one outlet positioned within at least one atomization region of the active surface of the substrate.

[0034] Advantageously, using a surface acoustic wave atomizer to atomize the liquid aerosol forming substrate provides improved control of the atomization process compared to other well-known aerosol generators such as electric heaters. In other words, the surface acoustic wave atomizer of the aerosol generator according to the present disclosure provides a reliable and consistent amount of atomized liquid aerosol forming substrate.

[0035] Advantageously, the power required by the surface acoustic wave atomizer to atomize the liquid aerosol forming substrate is less than the power required to atomize the same amount of liquid aerosol forming substrate using a well-known aerosol generator such as an electric heater.

[0036] Advantageously, the plurality of interconnected channels of the supply element of the aerosol generator according to the present disclosure facilitate improved control of the rate at which the liquid aerosol-forming substrate is supplied to at least one atomizer region of the surface acoustic wave atomizer. In particular, the plurality of interconnected channels of the supply element facilitate improved control of the flow rate of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate as compared to well-known liquid transfer elements such as capillary wicks. For example, one or more dimensions of the plurality of interconnected channels may be selected to provide a desired volumetric flow rate of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate through the plurality of interconnected channels.

[0037] Advantageously, the plurality of interconnected channels may facilitate supplying a single liquid aerosol-forming substrate to a plurality of outlets within at least one atomization region.

[0038] Advantageously, the plurality of interconnected channels may facilitate mixing two or more liquid aerosol-forming substrates by the supply element. Advantageously, mixing two or more liquid aerosol-forming substrates by the supply element enables providing the mixed liquid aerosol-forming substrate to at least one atomization region. Advantageously, mixing two or more liquid aerosol-forming substrates by the supply element facilitates storing the two or more liquid aerosol-forming substrates separately and mixing the two or more liquid aerosol-forming substrates only during use.

[0039] At least one inlet may comprise a single inlet, and at least one outlet may comprise a plurality of outlets, and the plurality of interconnected channels provide fluid communication between the inlet and each of the plurality of outlets. Advantageously, the single inlet and the plurality of outlets may facilitate supplying a single liquid aerosol-forming substrate to a plurality of locations within at least one atomization region. Advantageously, the plurality of outlets may facilitate a homogeneous distribution of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate across at least one atomization region.

[0040] The plurality of outlets may comprise at least two outlets, at least three outlets, at least four outlets, or at least five outlets.

[0041] The plurality of outlets may comprise 20 or fewer outlets, 18 or fewer outlets, 16 or fewer outlets, 14 or fewer outlets, 12 or fewer outlets, or 10 or fewer outlets.

[0042] The plurality of outlets may be positioned in at least one atomization region in any suitable arrangement.

[0043] The plurality of outlets may be randomly positioned in at least one atomization region.

[0044] The plurality of outlets may be arranged in a pattern, symmetrically arranged, in one or more rows, or arranged in at least one of a grid, a spiral, and one or more concentric circles within at least one atomization region.

[0045] At least one outlet may comprise a single outlet, and at least one inlet may comprise a plurality of inlets, and the plurality of interconnected channels provide fluid communication between each of the outlet and the plurality of inlets. Advantageously, the single outlet and the plurality of inlets may facilitate mixing of two or more liquid aerosol-forming substrates by the plurality of interconnected channels.

[0046] The plurality of inlets may comprise at least two inlets, at least three inlets, at least four inlets, or at least five inlets.

[0047] The plurality of inlets may comprise 20 or fewer inlets, 18 or fewer inlets, 16 or fewer inlets, 14 or fewer inlets, 12 or fewer inlets, or 10 or fewer inlets.

[0048] The plurality of inlets may be positioned on the surface of the substrate in any suitable arrangement.

[0049] The plurality of inlets may be randomly positioned on the surface of the substrate.

[0050] The plurality of inlets may be arranged in a pattern on the surface of the substrate. The plurality of inlets may be arranged symmetrically on the surface of the substrate. The plurality of inlets may be arranged in one or more rows. The plurality of inlets may be arranged in at least one of a grid, a spiral, and one or more concentric circles.

[0051] Each of the at least one inlet preferably has a cross-sectional area of at least about 8×10 -3 square millimeters.

[0052] Each of the at least one inlet, the at least one outlet, and the plurality of interconnected channels may be formed in the substrate using any suitable manufacturing process. Suitable processes include mechanical drilling, mechanical grinding, laser ablation, laser drilling, etching (e.g., reactive ion etching), combinations thereof.

[0053] According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an aerosol generator for an aerosol generating device, the aerosol generator comprising a surface acoustic wave atomizer and a supply element. The surface acoustic wave atomizer comprises a substrate having an active surface defining at least one atomization region. The surface acoustic wave atomizer also comprises at least one transducer positioned on the active surface of the substrate for generating a surface acoustic wave on the active surface of the substrate. The supply element is arranged to supply a liquid aerosol forming substrate to at least one atomization region of the surface acoustic wave atomizer. The supply element comprises at least one channel extending through the substrate between at least one inlet for receiving the supply of the liquid aerosol forming substrate and at least one outlet positioned within at least one atomization region of the active surface of the substrate. The substrate is a laminated material comprising a plurality of layers of substrate material. At least one of the layers of substrate material defines at least one outlet, at least one of the layers of substrate material defines at least one inlet, and at least one of the layers of substrate material defines at least one channel.

[0054] Advantageously, forming the substrate from a plurality of layers of substrate material defining at least one inlet, at least one outlet, and at least one channel may facilitate the formation of channels having a non-linear shape.

[0055] Preferably, at least two of the layers of substrate material define at least one channel. Advantageously, defining at least one channel having a plurality of layers of substrate material may further facilitate the formation of channels having a non-linear shape. Preferably, at least two layers of substrate material comprise a first layer of substrate material defining a first portion of at least one channel and a second layer of substrate material defining a second portion of at least one channel.

[0056] The plurality of layers of substrate material may be fixed together by at least one of bonding, clamping, and one or more adhesives.

[0057] The aerosol generator according to the third aspect of the present disclosure may be the aerosol generator according to the first aspect or the second aspect of the present disclosure.

[0058] The following preferred optional features of the aerosol generator may be applied to the aerosol generator according to the first, second, and third aspects of the present disclosure.

[0059] At least one transducer may comprise an interdigital transducer having a plurality of electrodes. Preferably, the plurality of electrodes are substantially parallel to each other. The interdigital transducer preferably comprises an array of first electrodes and an array of second electrodes arranged alternately with the array of first electrodes. The array of first electrodes is preferably substantially parallel to the array of second electrodes.

[0060] The transducer may be configured to generate a surface acoustic wave having a substantially linear wavefront. In embodiments where the transducer is an interdigital transducer having a plurality of electrodes, each electrode may be substantially linear.

[0061] The transducer may be configured to generate a surface acoustic wave having a curved wavefront. In embodiments where the transducer is an interdigital transducer having a plurality of electrodes, each electrode may be curved. The transducer may be configured to generate a surface acoustic wave having a convex wavefront. Preferably, the transducer may be configured to generate a surface acoustic wave having a concave wavefront. Advantageously, the concave wavefront may provide a focusing effect. In other words, the concave wavefront may concentrate the generated surface acoustic wave towards a nebulization region smaller than the transducer. Advantageously, concentrating the generated surface acoustic wave may increase the rate at which energy is delivered to the liquid aerosol forming substrate in the nebulization region.

[0062] At least one transducer may be a single transducer. At least one transducer may be a plurality of transducers. In an embodiment where the surface acoustic wave atomizer includes a plurality of transducers, each transducer is preferably disposed on the active surface of the substrate such that the surface acoustic wave generated by the transducer travels toward at least one atomization region.

[0063] The surface acoustic wave atomizer may include at least one reflector. At least one reflector is preferably positioned on the active surface of the substrate. At least one reflector is preferably disposed to reflect the surface acoustic wave from at least one transducer toward at least one atomization region. Advantageously, a reflector disposed to reflect the surface acoustic wave toward at least one atomization region may increase or maximize the efficiency of the surface acoustic wave atomizer.

[0064] At least one reflector may include one or more electrodes.

[0065] At least one reflector may include one or more metal portions positioned on the active surface of the substrate. Each metal portion may have a linear shape. Each metal portion may have a curved shape. At least one reflector may include a plurality of metal portions. The plurality of metal portions may be disposed in a pattern on the active surface of the substrate. Each metal portion is preferably substantially parallel to an adjacent metal portion forming at least one reflector.

[0066] A portion of the substrate may form at least a part of at least one reflector. The substrate may define at least one protrusion, and at least one protrusion forms at least a part of at least one reflector. The substrate may define at least one recess, and at least one recess forms at least a part of at least one reflector.

[0067] At least one atomization region may be positioned between at least one transducer and at least one reflector.

[0068] At least one reflector may be a single reflector. At least one reflector may be a plurality of reflectors.

[0069] In an embodiment where the surface acoustic wave atomizer includes a plurality of transducers, at least one reflector may be a plurality of reflectors. Each of the transducers may be positioned on the opposite side of one of the reflectors such that at least one atomization region is positioned between the transducer and the corresponding reflector.

[0070] The substrate is formed from a substrate material. The substrate may be a piezoelectric material. The substrate material may include a single crystal material. The substrate material may include a polycrystalline material. The substrate material may include at least one of quartz, ceramic, barium titanate (BaTiO3), and lithium niobate (LiNbO3). The ceramic may include lead zirconate titanate (PZT). The ceramic may include a doping material such as Ni, Bi, La, Nd, or Nb ions. The substrate material may be polarized. The substrate material may not be polarized. The substrate material may include both a polarized material and a non-polarized material.

[0071] The substrate may include a surface treatment. The surface treatment may be applied to the active surface of the substrate. The surface treatment may include a coating. The coating may include a hydrophobic material. The coating may include a hydrophilic material. The coating may include a lipophobic material. The coating may include a lipophilic material.

[0072] According to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an aerosol generating device comprising an aerosol generator according to a first aspect, a second aspect, or a third aspect of the present disclosure. The aerosol generating device also comprises a controller for controlling at least one transducer, a power source, and at least one liquid storage portion for receiving a liquid aerosol-forming substrate, and the supply element is arranged to supply the liquid aerosol-forming substrate from the at least one liquid storage portion to at least one atomization region.

[0073] The at least one liquid storage portion may be reusable. In other words, the at least one liquid storage portion may be refillable by the user to replenish the liquid aerosol-forming substrate within the at least one liquid storage portion. The at least one liquid storage portion may comprise a refill opening for inserting the liquid aerosol-forming substrate into the liquid storage portion. The at least one liquid storage portion may comprise a refill valve between the refill opening and the at least one liquid storage portion. Advantageously, the refill valve may allow the liquid aerosol-forming substrate to flow through the refill opening into the at least one liquid storage portion. Advantageously, the refill valve may prevent the liquid aerosol-forming substrate from flowing out of the at least one liquid storage portion through the refill opening.

[0074] The at least one liquid storage portion may be replaceable. The at least one liquid storage portion may be removable from the aerosol generating device. The aerosol generating device may comprise a cartridge, the cartridge being removable from the aerosol generating device and the cartridge comprising at least one liquid storage portion.

[0075] The aerosol generating device may comprise a liquid aerosol-forming substrate contained within the at least one liquid storage portion.

[0076] The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may contain nicotine. The nicotine-containing liquid aerosol-forming substrate may be a nicotine salt matrix. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may contain plant-derived materials. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may contain tobacco. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may contain homogenized tobacco materials. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may contain non-tobacco-containing materials. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may contain homogenized plant-derived materials.

[0077] The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may contain at least one aerosol former. The aerosol former is any suitable well-known compound or mixture of compounds that facilitates the formation of a high-density stable aerosol during use. Suitable aerosol formers are well-known in the art and include polyhydric alcohols (such as triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol, glycerin, etc.), esters of polyhydric alcohols (such as glycerol monoacetate, diacetate, or triacetate, etc.), and aliphatic esters of monocarboxylic acids, dicarboxylic acids, or polycarboxylic acids (such as dimethyl dodecanedioate, dimethyl tetradecanedioate, etc.), but are not limited thereto. The aerosol former may be a polyhydric alcohol or a mixture thereof (such as triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol, and glycerin, etc.). The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may contain other additives and components (such as flavorants, etc.).

[0078] The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may contain water.

[0079] The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may contain nicotine and at least one aerosol former. The aerosol former may contain glycerin. The aerosol former may contain propylene glycol. The aerosol former may contain both glycerin and propylene glycol. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may have a nicotine concentration of from about 0.1 percent to about 10 percent.

[0080] In an embodiment where the inlet of the supply element comprises a plurality of inlets, at least one liquid storage part may comprise a first liquid storage part and a second liquid storage part. The first liquid storage part is for receiving a first liquid aerosol-forming substrate, and the first liquid storage part is in fluid communication with a first inlet of the plurality of inlets. The second liquid storage part is for receiving a second liquid aerosol-forming substrate, and the second liquid storage part is in fluid communication with a second inlet of the plurality of inlets.

[0081] The aerosol generating device may comprise a flow control element arranged to control the flow rate of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate from at least one liquid storage part to the channel of the supply element.

[0082] The flow control element may include at least one passive element. The at least one passive element may include at least one of a capillary and a wick.

[0083] The flow control element may include at least one active element. The at least one active element may include at least one of a micropump, a syringe pump, a piston pump, and an electroosmotic flow pump. The controller is preferably arranged to provide a control signal to the at least one active element to control the flow rate of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate from at least one liquid storage part to the channel of the supply element.

[0084] The controller may comprise a power supply and an electrical circuit connected to at least one transducer. The electrical circuit may comprise a microprocessor. The microprocessor may be a programmable microprocessor, a microcontroller, or an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or other electronic circuit having the ability to provide control. The electrical circuit may comprise additional electronic components. The electrical circuit may be configured to regulate the supply of power from the power supply to at least one transducer. The controller may be configured to continuously supply power to at least one transducer after activation of the aerosol generator. The controller may be configured to intermittently supply power to at least one transducer. The controller may be configured to supply power to at least one transducer each time a puff is taken.

[0085] Preferably, the controller and the power supply are configured to provide an alternating voltage to at least one transducer. The alternating voltage is preferably a radio frequency alternating voltage. The alternating voltage preferably has a frequency of at least about 20 megahertz. The alternating voltage preferably has a frequency of from about 20 megahertz to about 100 megahertz, more preferably from about 20 megahertz to about 80 megahertz. Advantageously, an alternating voltage within these ranges may provide at least one of a desired rate of aerosol generation and a desired droplet size.

[0086] The power source may be any suitable type of power source. The power source may be a DC power source. In some preferred embodiments, the power source is a battery such as a rechargeable lithium-ion battery. The power source may also be another form of charge storage device such as a capacitor. The power source may need to be recharged. The power source may have a capacity that allows for sufficient energy storage for one or more uses of the device. For example, the power source may have a capacity sufficient to allow for continuous generation of aerosol for about 6 minutes, or a multiple of 6 minutes, corresponding to the typical time taken to smoke one conventional cigarette. In another example, the power source may have a capacity sufficient to allow for a predetermined number of uses of the device, or for discontinuous activation. In one embodiment, the power source is a DC power source having a DC supply voltage in the range of about 2.5 volts to about 4.5 volts and a DC supply current in the range of about 1 ampere to about 10 amperes (corresponding to a DC power source in the range of about 2.5 watts to about 45 watts).

[0087] Advantageously, the aerosol generating device may comprise a DC / AC inverter, which may comprise a class C, class D, or class E power amplifier. The DC / AC inverter may be disposed between the power source and at least one transducer.

[0088] The aerosol generating device may further comprise a DC / DC converter between the power source and the DC / AC inverter.

[0089] The aerosol generating device may comprise a device housing. The device housing may be elongated. The device housing may comprise any suitable material or combination of materials. Examples of suitable materials include metals, alloys, plastics, or composite materials containing one or more of these materials, or thermoplastic resins suitable for food or pharmaceutical applications, such as polypropylene, polyetheretherketone (PEEK), polyethylene. The material is preferably lightweight and not brittle.

[0090] The device housing may define an air inlet. The air inlet may be configured to allow ambient air to enter the device housing. The air inlet may be in fluid communication with at least one atomization region of the aerosol generator. The device may comprise any suitable number of air inlets. The device may comprise a plurality of air inlets.

[0091] The device housing may comprise an air outlet. The air outlet may be configured to allow air to exit the device housing for delivery to the user. The air outlet may be in fluid communication with at least one atomization region of the aerosol generator. The aerosol generating device may comprise a mouthpiece. The mouthpiece may comprise an air outlet. The device may comprise any suitable number of air outlets. The device may comprise a plurality of air outlets.

[0092] Although only by way of illustration, the present invention will be further described with reference to the following accompanying drawings.

Brief Description of the Drawings

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MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0094] FIGS. 1 and 2 show an aerosol generator 100 according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. The aerosol generator 100 includes a surface acoustic wave atomizer 102 and a supply element 104 for supplying a liquid aerosol forming substrate to the surface acoustic wave atomizer 102.

[0095] The surface acoustic wave atomizer 102 includes a substrate 106 having a sheet of piezoelectric material and a transducer 108 disposed on the active surface 110 of the substrate 106. The transducer 108 includes an array 112 of first electrodes and an array 114 of second electrodes arranged alternately with the array 112 of first electrodes. The array 112 of first electrodes and the array 114 of second electrodes are curved and parallel to each other. During use, the transducer 108 generates surface acoustic waves on the active surface 110 of the substrate 106. The curved shape of the array 112 of first electrodes and the array 114 of second electrodes results in surface acoustic waves having a concave wavefront concentrated toward the atomization region 116 on the active surface 110 of the substrate 106.

[0096] The supply element 104 includes a channel 118 extending through the substrate 106 between an inlet 120 on the passive surface 122 of the substrate 106 and an outlet 124 on the active surface 110 of the substrate 106. The outlet 124 is positioned within the atomization region 116. During use, the liquid aerosol-forming substrate is supplied through the channel 118 to the atomization region 116, where it is atomized by the surface acoustic waves generated by the transducer 108.

[0097] As shown in FIG. 3 showing a perspective view of the channel 118, the channel 118 has a cross-sectional area that varies in the direction from the inlet 120 to the outlet 124. In particular, the channel 118 has a funnel shape such that the cross-sectional area of the channel 118 increases in the direction from the inlet 120 to the outlet 124. The smaller cross-sectional area of the channel 118 at the inlet 120 facilitates control of the flow rate of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate into the channel 118. The larger cross-sectional area of the channel 118 at the outlet 124 provides a larger surface area of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate in the atomization region 116, facilitating atomization of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate. The curved transition at the inlet 120 between the active surface 110 and the channel 118 facilitates the transfer of energy from the surface acoustic waves to the liquid aerosol-forming substrate.

[0098] Figures 4 and 5 show an aerosol generator 200 according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure. The aerosol generator 200 includes a surface acoustic wave atomizer 202 and a supply element 204 for supplying a liquid aerosol forming substrate to the surface acoustic wave atomizer 202.

[0099] The surface acoustic wave atomizer 202 includes a substrate 206 including a sheet of piezoelectric material and a transducer 208 disposed on an active surface 210 of the substrate 206. The transducer 208 includes an array 212 of first electrodes and an array 214 of second electrodes arranged alternately with the array 212 of first electrodes. The array 212 of first electrodes and the array 214 of second electrodes are linear and parallel to each other. In use, the transducer 208 generates surface acoustic waves on the active surface 210 of the substrate 206. The linear shape of the array 212 of first electrodes and the array 214 of second electrodes results in surface acoustic waves having a linear wavefront directed towards an atomization region 216 on the active surface 210 of the substrate 206.

[0100] The supply element 204 includes a channel 218 extending through the substrate 206 between an inlet 220 at a passive surface 222 of the substrate 206 and an outlet 224 at the active surface 210 of the substrate 206. The outlet 224 is positioned within the atomization region 216. In use, the liquid aerosol forming substrate is supplied through the channel 218 to the atomization region 216 where it is atomized by surface acoustic waves generated by the transducer 208.

[0101] As shown in FIG. 6 showing a perspective view of the channel 218, the channel 218 has a cross-sectional area that varies in the direction from the inlet 220 to the outlet 224. In particular, the channel 218 has a wedge shape such that the cross-sectional area of the channel 218 increases in the direction from the inlet 220 to the outlet 224. The smaller cross-sectional area of the channel 218 at the inlet 220 facilitates control of the flow rate of the liquid aerosol forming substrate into the channel 218. The larger cross-sectional area of the channel 218 at the outlet 224 provides a larger surface area of the liquid aerosol forming substrate in the atomization region 216 and facilitates atomization of the liquid aerosol forming substrate.

[0102] Figures 7 and 8 show an aerosol generator 300 according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure. The aerosol generator 300 includes a surface acoustic wave atomizer 302 and a supply element 304 for supplying a liquid aerosol forming substrate to the surface acoustic wave atomizer 302.

[0103] The surface acoustic wave atomizer 302 includes a substrate 306 having a sheet of piezoelectric material and a transducer 308 disposed on the active surface 310 of the substrate 306. The transducer 308 includes an array 312 of first electrodes and an array 314 of second electrodes arranged alternately with the array 312 of first electrodes. The array 312 of first electrodes and the array 314 of second electrodes are linear and parallel to each other. In use, the transducer 308 generates surface acoustic waves on the active surface 310 of the substrate 306. The linear shape of the array 312 of first electrodes and the array 314 of second electrodes results in surface acoustic waves having a linear wavefront directed towards the atomization region 316 on the active surface 310 of the substrate 306.

[0104] The surface acoustic wave atomizer 302 also includes a reflector 330 positioned on the active surface 310 of the substrate 306 such that the atomization region 316 is positioned between the transducer 308 and the reflector 330. The reflector 330 includes an array 332 of reflector electrodes, each having a linear shape and being arranged parallel to each other and parallel to the first array 312 and the second array 314 of the electrodes of the transducer 308. In use, a portion of the surface acoustic waves generated by the transducer 308 may be fully transmitted through the atomization region 316. The reflector 330 functions to reflect any transmitted surface acoustic waves back towards the atomization region 316.

[0105] Supply element 304 comprises a channel 318 extending through substrate 306 between an inlet 320 on a passive surface 322 of substrate 306 and an outlet 324 on an active surface 310 of substrate 306. The outlet 324 is positioned within an atomization region 316. In use, a liquid aerosol-forming substrate is supplied through channel 318 to the atomization region 316 where it is atomized by surface acoustic waves generated by transducer 308.

[0106] As shown in FIG. 9, which shows a perspective view of channel 318, the channel 318 has a cross-sectional area that varies in the direction from inlet 320 to outlet 324. In particular, the channel 318 has a curved wedge shape such that the cross-sectional area of the channel 318 increases in the direction from inlet 320 to outlet 324. The smaller cross-sectional area of the channel 318 at the inlet 320 facilitates control of the flow rate of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate into the channel 318. The larger cross-sectional area of the channel 318 at the outlet 324 provides a larger surface area of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate in the atomization region 316 and facilitates atomization of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate. The curved transition at the inlet 320 between the active surface 310 and the channel 318 on the side of the channel 318 closest to the transducer 308 facilitates transfer of energy from the surface acoustic waves to the liquid aerosol-forming substrate.

[0107] FIG. 10 shows a first variant of the aerosol generator 300 of FIGS. 7 and 8. In the first variant shown in FIG. 10, the channel 318 has a cross-sectional shape that decreases in the direction from inlet 320 to outlet 324.

[0108] FIG. 11 shows a second variant of the aerosol generator 300 of FIGS. 7 and 8. In the second variant shown in FIG. 11, the channel 318 extends in a non-perpendicular direction with respect to the active surface 310. In particular, the channel 318 has a substantially linear cross-sectional shape and is inclined towards the transducer 308. Advantageously, inclining the channel 318 towards the transducer 308 facilitates transfer of energy from the surface acoustic waves to the liquid aerosol-forming substrate and also increases the mechanical stability of the substrate 306 at the outlet 324.

[0109] Figures 12, 13, and 14 show an aerosol generator 400 according to a fourth embodiment of the present disclosure. The aerosol generator 400 includes a surface acoustic wave atomizer 402 and a supply element 404 for supplying a liquid aerosol forming substrate to the surface acoustic wave atomizer 402.

[0110] The surface acoustic wave atomizer 402 includes a substrate 406 having a sheet of piezoelectric material and a transducer 408. The substrate 406 includes a plurality of walls 442 that define a recess 440 within the surface of the substrate 406. The transducer 408 is disposed on the active surface 410 of the substrate 406 within the recess 440.

[0111] The transducer 408 includes an array 412 of first electrodes and an array 414 of second electrodes arranged alternately with the array 412 of first electrodes. The array 412 of first electrodes and the array 414 of second electrodes are linear and parallel to each other. In use, the transducer 408 generates surface acoustic waves on the active surface 410 of the substrate 406. The linear shape of the array 412 of first electrodes and the array 414 of second electrodes results in surface acoustic waves having a linear wavefront directed toward the atomization region 416 on the active surface 410 of the substrate 406.

[0112] The supply element 404 includes a channel 418 that extends through the substrate 406 between an inlet 420 on the passive surface 422 of the substrate 406 and an outlet 424 on the active surface 410 of the substrate 406. The outlet 424 is positioned within the recess 440 and the atomization region 416. In use, the liquid aerosol forming substrate is supplied through the channel 418 to the atomization region 416 where it is atomized by the surface acoustic waves generated by the transducer 408.

[0113] As shown in FIG. 9 showing a perspective view of the aerosol generator 400, the channel 418 has a cross-sectional area that varies in the direction from the inlet 420 to the outlet 424. In particular, the channel 418 has a curved wedge shape such that the cross-sectional area of the channel 418 increases in the direction from the inlet 420 to the outlet 424. The smaller cross-sectional area of the channel 418 at the inlet 420 facilitates control of the flow rate of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate into the channel 418. The larger cross-sectional area of the channel 418 at the outlet 424 provides a larger surface area of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate in the atomization region 416 and facilitates atomization of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate. The curved transition at the inlet 420 between the active surface 410 and the channel 418 on the side of the channel 418 closest to the transducer 408 facilitates the transfer of energy from the surface acoustic wave to the liquid aerosol-forming substrate.

[0114] The plurality of walls 442 defining the recess 440 includes a pair of walls 444 having an angle arranged to reflect the surface acoustic wave generated by the transducer 408 towards the atomization region 416. The plurality of walls 442 also includes a rear wall 446 arranged to reflect any surface acoustic wave propagating from the transducer 408 away from the atomization region 416 back towards the atomization region 416. The plurality of walls 442 also includes a front wall 448 that partially defines the inlet 424 and is arranged to reflect any surface acoustic wave transmitted through the entire atomization region 416 back into the atomization region 416. Advantageously, the walls 444, 446, 448 increase or maximize the energy transmitted from the surface acoustic wave to the liquid aerosol-forming substrate within the atomization region 416.

[0115] FIGS. 15 and 16 show an aerosol generator 500 according to a fifth embodiment of the present disclosure. The aerosol generator 500 includes a surface acoustic wave atomizer 502 and a supply element 504 for supplying a liquid aerosol-forming substrate to the surface acoustic wave atomizer 502.

[0116] The surface acoustic wave atomizer 502 includes a substrate 506 having a piezoelectric material sheet, a first transducer 508, and a second transducer 509. The first transducer 508 and the second transducer 509 are disposed on the active surface 510 of the substrate 506.

[0117] Each of the first transducer 508 and the second transducer 509 includes an array of first electrodes and an array of second electrodes as described with respect to the transducer 108 of FIG. 1. The array of first electrodes and the array of second electrodes of each of the first transducer 508 and the second transducer 509 are curved and parallel to each other. In use, each of the first transducer 508 and the second transducer 509 generates a surface acoustic wave on the active surface 510 of the substrate 506. The curved shape of the array of first electrodes and the array of second electrodes of the first transducer 508 results in a surface acoustic wave having a concave wavefront concentrated toward a first atomization region 516 on the active surface 510 of the substrate 506. The curved shape of the array of first electrodes and the array of second electrodes of the second transducer 509 results in a surface acoustic wave having a concave wavefront concentrated toward a second atomization region 517 on the active surface 510 of the substrate 506.

[0118] The supply element 504 includes a plurality of interconnect channels extending through the substrate 506 between an inlet 520 at the passive surface 522 of the substrate 506 and a first outlet 524 and a second outlet 525 at the active surface 510 of the substrate 506. The first outlet 524 is positioned within the first atomization region 516, and the second outlet 525 is positioned within the second atomization region 517.

[0119] The plurality of interconnected channels include an inlet channel 523, a transverse channel 521, a first outlet channel 518, and a second outlet channel 519. The inlet channel 523 extends from an inlet 520. The transverse channel 521 is in fluid communication with the inlet channel 523. The first outlet channel 518 extends between a first end of the transverse channel 521 and a first outlet 524. The second outlet channel 519 extends between a second end of the transverse channel 521 and a second outlet 525. In use, the liquid aerosol-forming substrate is supplied through the plurality of interconnected channels to a first atomization region 516 and a second atomization region 517, where it is atomized by surface acoustic waves generated by a first transducer 508 and a second transducer 509.

[0120] As shown in FIG. 17, which shows an exploded perspective view of the substrate 506, the substrate 506 is formed from a plurality of layers of substrate material to facilitate the formation of a plurality of interconnected channels. Specifically, the substrate 506 comprises a first layer 550, a second layer 552, and a third layer 554 of substrate material. The first layer 550 of substrate material defines the first outlet channel 518 and the second outlet channel 519. The second layer 552 of substrate material defines the transverse channel 521. The third layer 554 of substrate material defines the inlet channel 523. The first layer 550, the second layer 522, and the third layer 524 of substrate material are bonded together to form the substrate 506.

[0121] FIG. 18 shows a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device 600 comprising an aerosol generator 500. The aerosol generating device 600 also comprises a liquid storage portion 602 containing a liquid aerosol-forming substrate 604, and a flow control element 606 comprising a micropump. The micropump is arranged to supply the liquid aerosol-forming substrate 604 from the liquid storage portion 602 to the inlet 520 of the aerosol generator 500.

[0122] The aerosol generating device 600 also includes a power source 608 with a rechargeable battery and a controller 610. The controller 610 is configured to provide a control signal to the flow control element 606 to control the flow rate of the liquid aerosol forming substrate 604 from the liquid storage portion 602 to the inlet 520 of the aerosol generator 500. The controller 610 is also configured to supply current from the power source 608 to the aerosol generator 500 to drive the first transducer 508 and the second transducer 509.

[0123] The aerosol generating device 600 also includes a housing 612 that encloses the aerosol generator 500, the liquid storage portion 602, the flow control element 606, the power source 608, and the controller 610. The housing 612 defines an air inlet 614, a mouthpiece 616, and an air outlet 618. In use, the user sucks on the mouthpiece 616 to draw air from the air inlet 614 through the housing 612 to the air outlet 618. The aerosol generated by the aerosol generator 500 is entrained in the air stream passing through the housing 612 for delivery to the user.

[0124] FIG. 19 shows a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generator 700 according to a sixth embodiment of the present disclosure. The aerosol generator 700 includes a surface acoustic wave atomizer 702 and a supply element 704 for supplying a liquid aerosol forming substrate to the surface acoustic wave atomizer 702.

[0125] The surface acoustic wave atomizer 702 includes a substrate 706 with a sheet of piezoelectric material and a transducer 708 disposed on the active surface 710 of the substrate 706. The transducer 708 is identical to the transducer 108 described with respect to FIG. 1.

[0126] The supply element 704 includes a plurality of interconnecting channels extending through the substrate 706 between a first inlet 720 and a second inlet 721 on the passive surface 722 of the substrate 706 and an outlet 724 on the active surface 710 of the substrate 706.

[0127] The plurality of interconnected channels includes a first inlet channel 723, a second inlet channel 727, a transverse channel 721, and an outlet channel 718. The first inlet channel 723 extends from a first inlet 720. The second inlet channel 727 extends from a second inlet 721. The transverse channel 721 is in fluid communication with the first inlet channel 723 and the second inlet channel 727. The outlet channel 718 extends between the transverse channel 721 and an outlet 724. Advantageously, a first liquid aerosol-forming substrate may be supplied to the first inlet 720, and a second liquid aerosol-forming substrate may be supplied to the second inlet 721. Advantageously, the first liquid aerosol-forming substrate and the second liquid aerosol-forming substrate may be mixed within the plurality of interconnected channels during use to form a mixed liquid aerosol-forming substrate. During use, the mixed liquid aerosol-forming substrate is supplied to the outlet 724 through the plurality of interconnected channels for atomization by surface acoustic waves generated by a transducer 708.

[0128] As shown in FIG. 20 showing an exploded perspective view of the substrate 706, the substrate 706 is formed from a plurality of layers of substrate material to facilitate the formation of the plurality of interconnected channels. Specifically, the substrate 706 includes a first layer 750, a second layer 752, and a third layer 754 of substrate material. The first layer 750 of substrate material defines the outlet channel 718. The second layer 752 of substrate material defines the transverse channel 721. The third layer 754 of substrate material defines the first inlet channel 723 and the second inlet channel 727. The first layer 750, the second layer 722, and the third layer 724 of substrate material are bonded together to form the substrate 706.

[0129] FIG. 21 shows a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device 800 including an aerosol generator 700. The aerosol generating device 800 also includes a first liquid storage portion 802 containing a first liquid aerosol forming substrate 804, a second liquid storage portion 803 containing a second liquid aerosol forming substrate 805, and a first flow control element 806 and a second flow control element 807 each including a micropump. The first flow control element 806 is arranged to supply the first liquid aerosol forming substrate 804 from the first liquid storage portion 802 to a first inlet 720 of the aerosol generator 700. The second flow control element 807 is arranged to supply the second liquid aerosol forming substrate 805 from the second liquid storage portion 803 to a second inlet 721 of the aerosol generator 700.

[0130] The aerosol generating device 800 also includes a power source 808 including a rechargeable battery and a controller 810. The controller 810 is configured to provide control signals to the first flow control element 806 and the second flow control element 807 to control the flow rates of the first and second liquid aerosol forming substrates 804 to the first inlet 720 and the second inlet 721 of the aerosol generator 700. The controller 810 is also configured to supply current from the power source 808 to the aerosol generator 700 to drive the transducer 708.

[0131] The aerosol generating device 800 also includes a housing 812 that houses the aerosol generator 700, the first liquid storage portion 802 and the second liquid storage portion 803, the first flow control element 806 and the second flow control element 807, the power source 808, and the controller 810. The housing 812 defines an air inlet 814, a mouthpiece 816, and an air outlet 818. During use, the user sucks on the mouthpiece 816 to draw air through the housing 812 from the air inlet 814 to the air outlet 818. The aerosol generated by the aerosol generator 700 is entrained within the air stream passing through the housing 812 for delivery to the user.

Claims

1. An aerosol generator for an aerosol generating device, which is a surface acoustic wave atomizer, comprising a substrate having an active surface defining at least one atomization region, and at least one transducer positioned on the active surface of the substrate for generating a surface acoustic wave on the active surface of the substrate, a surface acoustic wave atomizer; and a supply element arranged to supply a liquid aerosol forming substrate to the at least one atomization region, the supply element comprising an inlet for receiving a supply of the liquid aerosol forming substrate and an outlet positioned within the at least one atomization region of the active surface of the substrate, and a channel extending through the substrate between the inlet and the outlet, and the channel having at least one of a cross-sectional area that varies in a direction from the inlet to the outlet and a portion that extends in a non-perpendicular direction with respect to the active surface, wherein the substrate defines a recess at the active surface, the recess extending between the at least one transducer and the outlet, the substrate comprising a wall at least partially defining the recess, the wall extending perpendicular to the active surface and the wall being positioned to reflect a surface acoustic wave from the at least one transducer towards the outlet. An aerosol generator.

2. The aerosol generator according to claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the channel has a cross-sectional area that increases in the direction from the inlet to the outlet.

3. The aerosol generator according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein at least a portion of the channel has a funnel shape, a conical shape, or a wedge shape.

4. The aerosol generator according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein at least a portion of the channel is curved.

5. The aerosol generator according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein at least a portion of the channel at the outlet is curved to form a continuous transition between the channel and the active surface of the substrate.

6. The aerosol generator according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein at least a portion of the channel at the outlet extends in a tangential direction with respect to the active surface.

7. The outlet comprises a first side surface and a second side surface opposite to the first side surface, the first side surface is positioned between the second side surface and the at least one transducer, the channel comprises a first outlet portion on the first side surface of the outlet and a second outlet portion on the second side surface of the outlet, the first outlet portion extends in a tangential direction with respect to the active surface, and the second outlet portion extends perpendicular to the active surface. The aerosol generator according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. The aerosol generator according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the channel comprises a plurality of interconnected channels extending through the substrate between the inlet and the outlet.

9. The aerosol generator according to claim 8, wherein the inlet comprises a single inlet, the outlet comprises a plurality of outlets, and the plurality of interconnected channels provide fluid communication between the inlet and each of the plurality of outlets.

10. The aerosol generator according to claim 8, wherein the outlet comprises a single outlet, the inlet comprises a plurality of inlets, and the plurality of interconnected channels provide fluid communication between the outlet and each of the plurality of inlets.

11. The aerosol generator according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the substrate is a laminated material comprising a plurality of layers of substrate material, at least one of the layers of substrate material defines the outlet, at least one of the layers of substrate material defines the inlet, and at least one of the layers of substrate material defines the channel.

12. An aerosol generating device, the aerosol generator according to claim 10; a controller for controlling the at least one transducer; a power source; a first liquid storage portion for receiving a first liquid aerosol forming substrate, the first liquid storage portion being in fluid communication with a first inlet of the plurality of inlets; a second liquid storage portion for receiving a second liquid aerosol forming substrate, the second liquid storage portion being in fluid communication with a second inlet of the plurality of inlets. The aerosol generating device comprises.

13. An aerosol generating device, the aerosol generator according to any one of claims 1 to 11; a controller for controlling the at least one transducer; a power source; A liquid storage portion for receiving a liquid aerosol-forming substrate, the supply element being arranged to supply the liquid aerosol-forming substrate from the liquid storage portion to the at least one atomization region, and a liquid storage portion, an aerosol generating device comprising.

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