Aerosol generation system equipped with transducer

Abstract

An aerosol generation system (10) is provided that includes an aerosol generator housing (28) and a piezoelectric transducer (26). The piezoelectric transducer (26) has an elliptical shape and includes a first region (54) and a second region (56), where the second region (56) is electrically isolated from the first region (54). The piezoelectric transducer (26) is secured to the aerosol generator housing (28) at a single attachment point located only in the first region (54).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an aerosol generation system. Specifically, the present disclosure relates to an aerosol generation system comprising a piezoelectric transducer having an elliptical shape and a first region electrically insulated from a second region.

Background Art

[0002] One example of an aerosol generation system is an e-cigarette. Typically, an e-cigarette comprises an electric heater arranged to generate an aerosol by heating and vaporizing a liquid aerosol-forming substrate. Alternative designs using a vibrating transducer instead of a heater have been proposed. The vibrating transducer is used to generate droplets from the liquid aerosol-forming substrate, and the droplets form an aerosol.

[0003] Some liquid aerosol-forming substrates may include a number of different components. For example, a liquid aerosol-forming substrate may include at least one aerosol former such as nicotine, water, and glycerin. However, when using a vibrating transducer to aerosolize a liquid aerosol-forming substrate, optimal aerosolization of the different components of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate may be achieved at different vibration modes, frequencies, amplitudes, etc. Thus, a particular operating mode of the vibrating transducer is typically selected as a compromise, whereby the aerosolization of the different components of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate is not optimized.

[0004] It would be desirable to provide an aerosol generation system that overcomes the above problems using a known aerosol generation system.

Summary of the Invention

[0005] This disclosure provides an aerosol generating system comprising an aerosol generator housing and a piezoelectric transducer. The piezoelectric transducer has an elliptical shape and comprises a first region and a second region, the second region being electrically isolated from the first region. The piezoelectric transducer is fixed to the aerosol generator housing at a single mounting point located only within the first region.

[0006] Advantageously, providing the piezoelectric transducer with first and second regions electrically isolated from each other facilitates the independent operation of the first and second regions. Advantageously, the first region may be operated with at least one of a first vibration mode, frequency, and amplitude optimized for the aerosolization of a first liquid. Advantageously, the second region may be operated with at least one of a different vibration model, frequency, and amplitude optimized for the aerosolization of a second liquid different from the first liquid.

[0007] Advantageously, providing a piezoelectric transducer with first and second regions electrically isolated from each other facilitates optimized aerosolization of different liquids without requiring multiple different piezoelectric transducers. Advantageously, providing a single piezoelectric transducer that facilitates optimized aerosolization of different liquids may reduce or minimize the complexity of the aerosol generation system.

[0008] Advantageously, providing an elliptical shape to the piezoelectric transducer may facilitate providing a shape in each of the first and second regions that facilitates optimized aerosolization of the liquid substrate. For example, the elliptical shape may facilitate providing different sizes for the first and second regions depending on the amount of liquid aerosolized by each of the first and second regions.

[0009] Advantageously, fixing the piezoelectric transducer to the aerosol generator housing at a single mounting point located only within the first region facilitates the operation of the first and second regions, which have different vibration modes. For example, fixing the first region to the aerosol generator housing may force the first region into a planar vibration mode. Providing the piezoelectric transducer with a second region not fixed to the aerosol generation housing may facilitate vibration of the second region using a bending vibration mode. Advantageously, the different vibration modes may be optimized for the aerosolization of different liquids.

[0010] The mounting point may be located at the center of the elliptical piezoelectric transducer. Advantageously, locating the mounting point at the center of the transducer may facilitate the positioning of the transducer within the aerosol generator housing during the assembly of the aerosol generation system.

[0011] The mounting point may be located at the center of the first region. Advantageously, locating the mounting point at the center of the first region may facilitate the operation of the first region using the plane vibration mode.

[0012] The second region may extend between the first region and the edge of the piezoelectric transducer. Advantageously, providing a second region extending between the first region and the edge of the piezoelectric transducer may facilitate the operation of the second region using bending vibration modes.

[0013] A piezoelectric transducer may comprise a first groove in the surface of the piezoelectric transducer and an electrically insulating material positioned within the first groove, the first groove defining the boundary between a first region and a second region. Advantageously, providing the electrically insulating material within the first groove to electrically insulate the second region from the first region may reduce or minimize the complexity of forming the piezoelectric transducer. For example, in a first step, the transducer may be formed from piezoelectric material to a desired size and shape. In a subsequent step, the first and second regions may be formed by creating a first groove within the piezoelectric material and positioning the electrically insulating material within the first groove.

[0014] The electrical insulating material may include at least one of glass, asbestos, varnish, resin, paper, silicone, and rubber. Suitable rubbers include natural rubber and synthetic rubber.

[0015] The piezoelectric transducer may include one or more additional regions, which are electrically isolated from each other, and which are electrically isolated from each of the first and second regions. Advantageously, the one or more additional regions may operate in one or more different vibration modes, frequencies, and amplitudes optimized for the aerosolization of one or more additional liquids.

[0016] The piezoelectric transducer may include a third region, which is electrically isolated from the first and second regions, respectively.

[0017] The piezoelectric transducer may comprise a second groove in the surface of the piezoelectric transducer and an electrical insulating material positioned within the second groove, the second groove defining the boundary between the first region and the third region. The electrical insulating material may include any of the suitable electrical insulating materials described herein.

[0018] The third region may extend between the first region and the edge of the piezoelectric transducer.

[0019] The piezoelectric transducer may include a fourth region, which is electrically isolated from the first, second, and third regions, respectively.

[0020] The piezoelectric transducer may comprise a third groove in the surface of the piezoelectric transducer and an electrical insulating material positioned within the third groove, the third groove defining the boundary between the first region and the fourth region. The electrical insulating material may include any of the suitable electrical insulating materials described herein.

[0021] The fourth region may extend between the first region and the edge of the piezoelectric transducer.

[0022] The piezoelectric transducer may include a fifth region, which is electrically isolated from each of the first, second, third, and fourth regions.

[0023] The piezoelectric transducer may include a fourth groove in the surface of the piezoelectric transducer and an electrical insulating material positioned within the fourth groove, the fourth groove defining the boundary between the first region and the fifth region. The electrical insulating material may include any of the suitable electrical insulating materials described herein.

[0024] The fifth region may extend between the first region and the edge of the piezoelectric transducer.

[0025] The first region may have a symmetrical shape.

[0026] The first region may have a rhomboid shape. Advantageously, the rhomboid shape of the first region may facilitate the second, third, fourth, and fifth regions having at least one of the same size and shape.

[0027] The rhombus shape has four vertices, and each of the vertices is preferably positioned at the edge of the piezoelectric transducer. Advantageously, positioning the vertices of the rhombus shape of the first region at the edge of the piezoelectric transducer may electrically insulate the second, third, fourth, and fifth regions from each other without requiring additional grooves or electrically insulating materials.

[0028] The piezoelectric transducer may comprise a first layer of piezoelectric material and a second layer of piezoelectric material, with the first layer being above the second layer. Advantageously, forming the piezoelectric transducer from two layers of piezoelectric material may facilitate the operation of the first and second regions using one or more of different vibration modes, frequencies, and amplitudes.

[0029] The first layer of piezoelectric material is polarized in a first direction, and the second layer of piezoelectric material is polarized in a second direction, with the first direction preferably being opposite to the second direction. Advantageously, providing the first and second layers of piezoelectric material with opposite polarizations may facilitate the operation of at least the second region having a bending vibration mode.

[0030] The first layer of piezoelectric material has a planar shape, and the first direction is preferably perpendicular to the planar shape of the first layer of piezoelectric material. The second layer of piezoelectric material has a planar shape, and the second direction is preferably perpendicular to the planar shape of the second layer of piezoelectric material.

[0031] The surface of the first layer of piezoelectric material preferably forms the first surface of the piezoelectric transducer. The surface of the second layer of piezoelectric material preferably forms the second surface of the piezoelectric transducer, which is opposite to the first surface.

[0032] The first layer of piezoelectric material preferably contacts the second layer of piezoelectric material at the interface between the first layer of piezoelectric material and the second layer of piezoelectric material.

[0033] The piezoelectric transducer may contain a single-crystal material. The piezoelectric transducer may contain quartz. The piezoelectric transducer may contain a ceramic. The ceramic may contain barium titanate (BaTiO3). The ceramic may contain lead zirconate titanate (PZT). The ceramic may contain doping materials such as Ni, Bi, La, Nd, or Nb ions. In embodiments in which the piezoelectric transducer comprises a first layer of piezoelectric material and a second layer of piezoelectric material, the first layer and the second layer may contain the same material or different materials.

[0034] The aerosol generation system preferably further comprises a power supply and a controller configured to supply power from the power source to the piezoelectric transducer.

[0035] The power source comprises a battery. The battery may be a lithium-based battery, such as a lithium cobalt battery, lithium iron phosphate battery, lithium titanate battery, or lithium polymer battery. The battery may be a nickel-metal hydride battery or a nickel-cadmium battery. The power source may also be another form of charge storage device, such as a capacitor. The power source may be rechargeable and may be configured for numerous charge-discharge cycles. The power source may have a capacity that allows for sufficient energy storage for one or more user experiences. For example, the power source may have a capacity sufficient to allow for continuous generation of aerosol for a period of time of about 6 minutes, or a multiple of 6 minutes, corresponding to the typical time it takes to smoke one conventional cigarette. In another embodiment, the power source may have a capacity sufficient to allow for a predetermined number of puffs or discontinuous operation of the piezoelectric transducer.

[0036] The controller may include a microprocessor. The microprocessor may be a programmable microprocessor, a microcontroller, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or other electronic circuitry capable of providing control. The controller may include further electronic components. For example, in some embodiments, the controller may include a sensor element, a switch element, or a display element. Power may be supplied to the piezoelectric transducer continuously after the aerosol generator has been activated, or intermittently, such as with each smoke extraction. Power may be supplied to the piezoelectric transducer in the form of current pulses, for example, by pulse width modulation (PWM).

[0037] The controller may be configured to supply power to the piezoelectric transducer in order to generate a first vibration potential difference between a first surface and a second surface of the piezoelectric transducer in a first region. Advantageously, generating a vibration potential difference between the first and second surfaces of the piezoelectric transducer in a first region may facilitate the operation of the first region in planar vibration modes. The controller may also include a drive circuit electrically connected to the piezoelectric transducer at the first and second surfaces within the first region, and the controller is configured to generate the first vibration potential difference via the drive circuit.

[0038] The controller may be configured to supply power to the piezoelectric transducer in order to generate a second vibration potential difference between the first surface of the piezoelectric transducer and the interface between the first layer and the second layer of the piezoelectric material in the second region. Advantageously, generating a vibration potential difference between the first surface and interface in the second region may facilitate the operation of the second region using bending vibration modes. The controller may also include a drive circuit electrically connected to the piezoelectric transducer at the first surface and interface in the second region, and the controller is configured to generate the second vibration potential difference via the drive circuit.

[0039] The controller may be configured to supply power to the piezoelectric transducer in order to generate a third vibration potential difference between the second surface of the piezoelectric transducer and the interface between the first layer of piezoelectric material and the second layer of piezoelectric material in the second region. Advantageously, generating a vibration potential difference between the second surface and interface in the second region may facilitate the operation of the second region using bending vibration modes. The controller may also include a drive circuit electrically connected to the piezoelectric transducer at the second surface and interface in the second region, and the controller is configured to generate the third vibration potential difference via the drive circuit.

[0040] The controller is preferably configured to power the piezoelectric transducer to generate both a second and a third vibration potential difference. Advantageously, simultaneously generating both the second and third vibration potential differences may increase or maximize the amplitude of the bending vibration mode in the second region. The second vibration potential difference is preferably the same as the third vibration potential difference. The second vibration potential difference is preferably in phase with the third vibration potential difference.

[0041] The controller may be configured to supply power to the piezoelectric transducer in order to generate a fourth vibration potential difference between the first surface of the piezoelectric transducer and the interface between the first layer and the second layer of the piezoelectric material in the third region. Advantageously, generating a vibration potential difference between the first surface and the interface in the third region may facilitate the operation of the third region using bending vibration modes. The controller may also include a drive circuit electrically connected to the piezoelectric transducer at the first surface and interface in the third region, and the controller may be configured to generate the fourth vibration potential difference via the drive circuit.

[0042] The controller may be configured to supply power to the piezoelectric transducer in order to generate a fifth vibration potential difference between the second surface of the piezoelectric transducer and the interface between the first layer of piezoelectric material and the second layer of piezoelectric material in the third region. Advantageously, generating a vibration potential difference between the second surface and interface in the third region may facilitate the operation of the third region using bending vibration modes. The controller may also include a drive circuit electrically connected to the piezoelectric transducer at the second surface and interface in the third region, and the controller may be configured to generate the fifth vibration potential difference via the drive circuit.

[0043] The controller is preferably configured to power the piezoelectric transducer to generate both the fourth and fifth vibrational potential differences. Advantageously, simultaneously generating both the fourth and fifth vibrational potential differences may increase or maximize the amplitude of the bending vibration modes in the third region. The fourth vibrational potential difference is preferably the same as the fifth vibrational potential difference. The fourth vibrational potential difference is preferably in phase with the fifth vibrational potential difference.

[0044] The controller may be configured to supply power to the piezoelectric transducer in order to generate a sixth vibration potential difference between the first surface of the piezoelectric transducer and the interface between the first layer and the second layer of the piezoelectric material in the fourth region. Advantageously, generating a vibration potential difference between the first surface and the interface in the fourth region may facilitate the operation of the fourth region using bending vibration modes. The controller may also include a drive circuit electrically connected to the piezoelectric transducer at the first surface and interface in the fourth region, and the controller may be configured to generate the sixth vibration potential difference via the drive circuit.

[0045] The controller may be configured to supply power to the piezoelectric transducer in order to generate a seventh vibration potential difference between the second surface of the piezoelectric transducer and the interface between the first layer of piezoelectric material and the second layer of piezoelectric material in the fourth region. Advantageously, generating a vibration potential difference between the second surface and interface in the fourth region may facilitate the operation of the fourth region using bending vibration modes. The controller may also include a drive circuit electrically connected to the piezoelectric transducer at the second surface and interface in the fourth region, and the controller may be configured to generate the seventh vibration potential difference via the drive circuit.

[0046] The controller is preferably configured to power the piezoelectric transducer to generate both the sixth and seventh vibrational potential differences. Advantageously, simultaneously generating both the sixth and seventh vibrational potential differences may increase or maximize the amplitude of the bending vibration modes in the fourth region. The sixth vibrational potential difference is preferably the same as the seventh vibrational potential difference. The sixth vibrational potential difference is preferably in phase with the seventh vibrational potential difference.

[0047] The controller may be configured to supply power to the piezoelectric transducer in order to generate an eighth vibration potential difference between the first surface of the piezoelectric transducer and the interface between the first layer and the second layer of the piezoelectric material in the fifth region. Advantageously, generating a vibration potential difference between the first surface and the interface in the fifth region may facilitate the operation of the fifth region using bending vibration modes. The controller may also include a drive circuit electrically connected to the piezoelectric transducer at the first surface and interface in the fifth region, and the controller is configured to generate the eighth vibration potential difference via the drive circuit.

[0048] The controller may be configured to supply power to the piezoelectric transducer in order to generate a ninth vibration potential difference between the second surface of the piezoelectric transducer and the interface between the first layer of piezoelectric material and the second layer of piezoelectric material in the fifth region. Advantageously, generating a vibration potential difference between the second surface and interface in the fifth region may facilitate the operation of the fifth region using bending vibration modes. The controller may also include a drive circuit electrically connected to the piezoelectric transducer at the second surface and interface in the fifth region, and the controller is configured to generate the ninth vibration potential difference via the drive circuit.

[0049] The controller is preferably configured to power the piezoelectric transducer to generate both the eighth and ninth vibration potential differences. Advantageously, simultaneously generating both the eighth and ninth vibration potential differences may increase or maximize the amplitude of the bending vibration modes in the fifth region. The eighth vibration potential difference is preferably the same as the ninth vibration potential difference. The eighth vibration potential difference is preferably in phase with the ninth vibration potential difference.

[0050] Each vibrational potential difference may include a waveform having a sinusoidal, square, triangular, or sawtooth shape.

[0051] Each oscillating potential difference may have a frequency of approximately 20 kHz to 1500 kHz, or approximately 50 kHz to 1000 kHz, or approximately 100 kHz to 500 kHz. An oscillating potential difference having one of these frequencies may provide at least one of a desired aerosol output velocity and a desired aerosol droplet size.

[0052] The controller may be configured to supply power to each region of the piezoelectric transducer simultaneously. Alternatively, the controller may be configured to supply power to each region of the piezoelectric transducer independently.

[0053] The aerosol generating system may include a first liquid storage compartment that is in fluid communication with a first region of a piezoelectric transducer. The aerosol generating system may also include a first liquid aerosol forming substrate contained within the first liquid storage compartment. Preferably, the aerosol generating system is configured to supply the first liquid aerosol forming substrate from the first liquid storage compartment to the first region of the piezoelectric transducer. The first liquid aerosol forming substrate may contain at least one of nicotine, glycerin, polyethylene glycol, and an acid.

[0054] The aerosol generating system may include a second liquid storage compartment that is in fluid communication with a second region of the piezoelectric transducer. The aerosol generating system may also include a second liquid aerosol-forming substrate contained within the second liquid storage compartment. Preferably, the aerosol generating system is configured to supply the second liquid aerosol-forming substrate from the second liquid storage compartment to the second region of the piezoelectric transducer. The second liquid aerosol-forming substrate may contain at least one of nicotine, glycerin, polyethylene glycol, and an acid.

[0055] The aerosol generating system may include a third liquid storage compartment that is in fluid communication with a third region of the piezoelectric transducer. The aerosol generating system may also include a third liquid aerosol-forming substrate contained within the third liquid storage compartment. Preferably, the aerosol generating system is configured to supply the third liquid aerosol-forming substrate from the third liquid storage compartment to the third region of the piezoelectric transducer. The third liquid aerosol-forming substrate may contain at least one of nicotine, glycerin, polyethylene glycol, and an acid.

[0056] The aerosol generating system may include a fourth liquid storage compartment that is in fluid communication with a fourth region of the piezoelectric transducer. The aerosol generating system may also include a fourth liquid aerosol forming substrate contained within the fourth liquid storage compartment. Preferably, the aerosol generating system is configured to supply the fourth liquid aerosol forming substrate from the fourth liquid storage compartment to the fourth region of the piezoelectric transducer. The fourth liquid aerosol forming substrate may contain at least one of nicotine, glycerin, polyethylene glycol, and an acid.

[0057] The aerosol generating system may include a fifth liquid storage compartment that is in fluid communication with a fifth region of the piezoelectric transducer. The aerosol generating system may also include a fifth liquid aerosol forming substrate contained within the fifth liquid storage compartment. Preferably, the aerosol generating system is configured to supply the fifth liquid aerosol forming substrate from the fifth liquid storage compartment to the fifth region of the piezoelectric transducer. The fifth liquid aerosol forming substrate may contain at least one of nicotine, glycerin, polyethylene glycol, and an acid.

[0058] At least one of the liquid storage compartments may form part of a cartridge separable from the rest of the aerosol generating system. The rest of the aerosol generating system may be an aerosol generator configured to be detachably coupled to the cartridge. The aerosol generator preferably comprises an aerosol generator housing, a piezoelectric transducer, a power supply, and a controller. The aerosol generator may also comprise an apparatus housing, in which the aerosol generator housing, piezoelectric transducer, power supply, and controller are at least partially housed within the apparatus housing. The apparatus housing may be continuous with the aerosol generator housing. At least part of the aerosol generator housing may be formed by the apparatus housing.

[0059] At least one of the liquid storage compartments may be provided with a carrier material to hold each liquid aerosol-forming substrate. The carrier material may be made of any suitable absorbent plug or body, such as foamed metal or plastic material, polypropylene, terylene, nylon fiber, or ceramic.

[0060] The aerosol generating system may include at least one capillary material disposed to transport at least one of the liquid aerosol-forming substrates to a piezoelectric transducer. The aerosol generating system may include a first capillary material disposed to transport a first liquid aerosol-forming substrate from a first liquid storage compartment to a first region of the piezoelectric transducer. The aerosol generating system may include a second capillary material disposed to transport a second liquid aerosol-forming substrate from a second liquid storage compartment to a second region of the piezoelectric transducer. The aerosol generating system may include a third capillary material disposed to transport a third liquid aerosol-forming substrate from a third liquid storage compartment to a third region of the piezoelectric transducer. The aerosol generating system may include a fourth capillary material disposed to transport a fourth liquid aerosol-forming substrate from a fourth liquid storage compartment to a fourth region of the piezoelectric transducer. The aerosol generation system may include a fifth capillary material arranged to transport a fifth liquid aerosol-forming substrate from a fifth liquid storage compartment to a fifth region of a piezoelectric transducer.

[0061] In embodiments where at least one of the liquid storage compartments is provided with a carrier material, the carrier material may include a capillary material.

[0062] The capillary material may have a fibrous structure. The capillary material may have a spongy structure. The capillary material may comprise bundles of capillaries. The capillary material may comprise multiple fibers. The capillary material may comprise multiple threads. The capillary material may comprise microtubules. The capillary material may comprise a combination of fibers, threads, and microtubules. The fibers, threads, and microtubules may be generally aligned to transport the liquid aerosol-forming substrate to a piezoelectric transducer. The capillary material may contain spongy material. The capillary material may contain foam-like material. The structure of the capillary material may form multiple small holes or tubes through which the liquid aerosol-forming substrate can be transported by capillary action.

[0063] The capillary material may include any suitable material or combination of materials. Examples of suitable materials include sponge or foam material, ceramic or graphite material in the form of fibers or sintered powder, foamable metal or plastic material, fibrous material, such as spun or extruded fibers (cellulose acetate, polyester, or bonded polyolefin, polyethylene, terylene or polypropylene fibers, nylon fibers or ceramics, etc.).

[0064] The aerosol generating system may include at least one pump configured to transport at least one of the liquid aerosol-forming substrates to a piezoelectric transducer. The aerosol generating system may include a first pump configured to transport a first liquid aerosol-forming substrate from a first liquid storage compartment to a first region of the piezoelectric transducer. The aerosol generating system may include a second pump configured to transport a second liquid aerosol-forming substrate from a second liquid storage compartment to a second region of the piezoelectric transducer. The aerosol generating system may include a third pump configured to transport a third liquid aerosol-forming substrate from a third liquid storage compartment to a third region of the piezoelectric transducer. The aerosol generating system may include a fourth pump configured to transport a fourth liquid aerosol-forming substrate from a fourth liquid storage compartment to a fourth region of the piezoelectric transducer. The aerosol generating system may include a fifth pump configured to transport a fifth liquid aerosol-forming substrate from a fifth liquid storage compartment to a fifth region of the piezoelectric transducer.

[0065] The pump may comprise at least one of a valve and a micropump. In embodiments of the aerosol generation system that include a controller, the controller is preferably configured to control at least one pump to control the delivery of each liquid aerosol-forming substrate to the piezoelectric transducer.

[0066] In embodiments of the aerosol generation system comprising a liquid aerosol-forming substrate containing nicotine, the controller is preferably configured to generate an oscillating potential difference having a frequency of about 121 kilohertz in the region of a piezoelectric transducer that is in fluid communication with the nicotine-containing liquid aerosol-forming substrate. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may include at least one of the first to fifth liquid aerosol-forming substrates described herein. The region of the piezoelectric transducer may include at least one of the first to fifth regions described herein. The oscillating potential difference may include at least one of the first to ninth oscillating potential differences described herein.

[0067] In embodiments of the aerosol generation system comprising a liquid aerosol-forming substrate containing glycerin, the controller is preferably configured to generate an oscillating potential difference having a frequency of about 123 kilohertz in the region of a piezoelectric transducer that is in fluid communication with the liquid aerosol-forming substrate containing glycerin. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may include at least one of the first to fifth liquid aerosol-forming substrates described herein. The region of the piezoelectric transducer may include at least one of the first to fifth regions described herein. The oscillating potential difference may include at least one of the first to ninth oscillating potential differences described herein.

[0068] In embodiments of the aerosol generation system comprising an acid-containing liquid aerosol-forming substrate, the controller is preferably configured to generate an oscillating potential difference having a frequency of about 122.4 kilohertz in the region of a piezoelectric transducer that is in fluid communication with the acid-containing liquid aerosol-forming substrate. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may include at least one of the first to fifth liquid aerosol-forming substrates described herein. The region of the piezoelectric transducer may include at least one of the first to fifth regions described herein. The oscillating potential difference may include at least one of the first to ninth oscillating potential differences described herein.

[0069] In embodiments where the aerosol generation system includes a liquid aerosol-forming substrate containing nicotine, the nicotine-containing liquid aerosol-forming substrate may be a nicotine salt matrix. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may contain plant-derived materials. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may contain tobacco. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may contain tobacco-containing materials that contain volatile tobacco-flavored compounds released from the aerosol-forming substrate upon heating. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may contain homogenized tobacco materials. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may contain non-tobacco-containing materials. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may contain homogenized plant-derived materials.

[0070] The aerosol generating system is preferably portable. The aerosol generating system may be comparable in size to a conventional cigar or cigarette. The aerosol generating system may have an overall length of approximately 30 mm to approximately 150 mm. The aerosol generating system may have an outer diameter of approximately 5 mm to approximately 30 mm.

[0071] The aerosol generator housing and the device housing may contain any suitable material or combination of materials. Examples of suitable materials include metals, alloys, plastics, or composite materials containing one or more of these materials, or thermoplastic resins suitable for food or pharmaceutical applications, such as polypropylene, polyetheretherketone (PEEK), and polyethylene. The material may be lightweight and not brittle.

[0072] The aerosol generation system preferably includes an airflow inlet, an airflow outlet, and an airflow path extending between the airflow inlet and the airflow outlet. At least a portion of the piezoelectric transducer is preferably in fluid communication with the airflow path. The airflow path is preferably arranged to receive the aerosolized liquid aerosol-forming substrate from the piezoelectric transducer.

[0073] The aerosol generating system may include a mouthpiece. In embodiments where the aerosol generating system includes an air outlet, the mouthpiece is preferably equipped with an air outlet. In embodiments where the aerosol generating system includes an aerosol generator and a cartridge, the mouthpiece may form part of the aerosol generator or part of the cartridge. The mouthpiece may be configured for a removable attachment to the aerosol generator or cartridge.

[0074] The present invention is defined in the claims. However, a non-exclusive list of non-limiting embodiments is provided below. One or more features of these embodiments may be combined with one or more features of other embodiments, forms, or aspects described herein.

[0075] [Example Ex1] an aerosol generation system, aerosol generator housing and A piezoelectric transducer having an elliptical shape and comprising a first region and a second region, wherein the second region is electrically insulated from the first region, An aerosol generating system in which a piezoelectric transducer is fixed to an aerosol generator housing at a single mounting point located only within a first region.

[0076] [Example Ex2] An aerosol generation system according to Example Ex1, in which the mounting point is positioned at the center of the elliptical piezoelectric transducer.

[0077] [Example Ex3] An aerosol generation system according to Example Ex1 or Ex2, wherein the second region extends between the first region and the edge of the piezoelectric transducer.

[0078] [Example Ex4] An aerosol generating system according to Example Ex1, Ex2, or Ex3, wherein the piezoelectric transducer comprises a first groove in the surface of the piezoelectric transducer and an electrically insulating material positioned within the first groove, the first groove defining a boundary between a first region and a second region.

[0079] [Example Ex5] An aerosol generating system according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the piezoelectric transducer comprises a third region, and the third region is electrically isolated from the first and second regions, respectively.

[0080] [Example Ex6] An aerosol generating system according to Example Ex5, wherein the piezoelectric transducer comprises a second groove in the surface of the piezoelectric transducer and an electrically insulating material positioned within the second groove, the second groove defining the boundary between a first region and a third region.

[0081] [Example Ex7] An aerosol generation system according to Example Ex5 or Ex6, wherein a third region extends between the first region and the edge of the piezoelectric transducer.

[0082] [Example Ex8] An aerosol generating system according to Example Ex5, Ex6, or Ex7, wherein the piezoelectric transducer comprises a fourth region, and the fourth region is electrically isolated from the first, second, and third regions, respectively.

[0083] [Example Ex9] An aerosol generating system according to Example Ex8, wherein the piezoelectric transducer comprises a third groove in the surface of the piezoelectric transducer and an electrically insulating material positioned within the third groove, the third groove defining the boundary between a first region and a fourth region.

[0084] [Example ex10] An aerosol generation system according to Example Ex8 or Ex9, wherein a fourth region extends between the first region and the edge of the piezoelectric transducer.

[0085] [Example Ex11] An aerosol generating system according to Example Ex8, Ex9, or Ex10, wherein the piezoelectric transducer comprises a fifth region, and the fifth region is electrically isolated from each of the first, second, third, and fourth regions.

[0086] [Example Ex12] An aerosol generating system according to Example Ex11, comprising a piezoelectric transducer, a fourth groove in the surface of the piezoelectric transducer, and an electrically insulating material positioned within the fourth groove, wherein the fourth groove defines the boundary between a first region and a fifth region.

[0087] [Example Ex13] An aerosol generation system according to Example Ex11 or Ex12, wherein a fifth region extends between the first region and the edge of the piezoelectric transducer.

[0088] [Example Ex14] An aerosol generation system according to Example Ex11, Ex12, or Ex13, wherein the first region has a rhomboid shape.

[0089] [Example Ex15] An aerosol generating system according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the piezoelectric transducer comprises a first layer of piezoelectric material and a second layer of piezoelectric material, and the first layer is located on top of the second layer.

[0090] [Example Ex16] An aerosol generation system according to Example Ex15, wherein the first layer of piezoelectric material is polarized in a first direction, and the second layer of piezoelectric material is polarized in a second direction, and the first direction is opposite to the second direction.

[0091] [Example Ex17] An aerosol generation system according to Example Ex16, wherein the first layer of the piezoelectric material has a planar shape, and the first direction is perpendicular to the planar shape of the first layer of the piezoelectric material.

[0092] [Example Ex18] An aerosol generating system according to Example Ex16 or Ex17, wherein the second layer of piezoelectric material has a planar shape, and the second direction is perpendicular to the planar shape of the second layer of piezoelectric material.

[0093] [Example Ex19] An aerosol generating system according to Examples Ex15, Ex16, Ex17, or Ex18, wherein the surface of a first layer of piezoelectric material forms the first surface of a piezoelectric transducer, the surface of a second layer of piezoelectric material forms the second surface of a piezoelectric transducer facing the opposite direction to the first surface, and the first layer of piezoelectric material is in contact with the second layer of piezoelectric material at the interface between the first layer and the second layer of piezoelectric material.

[0094] [Example Ex20] Power supply and A controller configured to supply power from a power source to a piezoelectric transducer, and further comprising an aerosol generation system according to one of the earlier embodiments.

[0095] [Example Ex21] Aerosol generation systems according to Examples Ex19 and Ex20, wherein the controller is configured to supply power to the piezoelectric transducer to generate a first oscillating potential difference between a first surface of the piezoelectric transducer and a second surface of the piezoelectric transducer within a first region.

[0096] [Example Ex22] An aerosol generation system according to Example Ex21, wherein the controller is configured to supply power to the piezoelectric transducer in order to generate a second vibrational potential difference between the first surface of the piezoelectric transducer and the interface between the first layer of piezoelectric material and the second layer of piezoelectric material within a second region.

[0097] [Example Ex23] An aerosol generation system according to Example Ex22, wherein the controller is configured to supply power to the piezoelectric transducer in order to generate a third vibrational potential difference between the second surface of the piezoelectric transducer and the interface between the first layer of piezoelectric material and the second layer of piezoelectric material within a second region.

[0098] [Example Ex24] Aerosol generating systems according to Examples Ex23 and Ex5, Ex6, or Ex7, wherein the controller is configured to supply power to the piezoelectric transducer in order to generate a fourth vibrational potential difference between the first surface of the piezoelectric transducer and the interface between the first layer of piezoelectric material and the second layer of piezoelectric material within a third region.

[0099] [Example Ex25] An aerosol generation system according to Example Ex24, wherein the controller is configured to supply power to the piezoelectric transducer in order to generate a fifth oscillating potential difference between the second surface of the piezoelectric transducer and the interface between the first layer of piezoelectric material and the second layer of piezoelectric material within a third region.

[0100] [Example Ex26] An aerosol generation system according to Example Ex24 or Ex25, combined with Example Ex8, Ex9, or Ex10, wherein the controller is configured to power the piezoelectric transducer to generate a sixth vibrational potential difference between the first surface of the piezoelectric transducer and the interface between the first layer of piezoelectric material and the second layer of piezoelectric material within a fourth region.

[0101] [Example Ex27] An aerosol generation system according to Example Ex26, wherein the controller is configured to supply power to the piezoelectric transducer in order to generate a seventh vibrational potential difference between the second surface of the piezoelectric transducer and the interface between the first layer of piezoelectric material and the second layer of piezoelectric material within a fourth region.

[0102] [Example Ex28] An aerosol generation system according to Example Ex26 or Ex27, combined with Example Ex11, Ex12, or Ex13, wherein the controller is configured to supply power to the piezoelectric transducer to generate an eighth vibrational potential difference between the first surface of the piezoelectric transducer and the interface between the first layer of piezoelectric material and the second layer of piezoelectric material within a fifth region.

[0103] [Example Ex29] An aerosol generation system according to Example Ex28, wherein the controller is configured to supply power to the piezoelectric transducer in order to generate a ninth vibration potential difference between the second surface of the piezoelectric transducer and the interface between the first layer of piezoelectric material and the second layer of piezoelectric material within a fifth region.

[0104] [Example Ex30] An aerosol generating system according to any of the preceding embodiments, further comprising a first liquid storage compartment in fluid communication with a first region of a piezoelectric transducer.

[0105] [Example Ex31] An aerosol generation system according to Example Ex30, further comprising a first liquid aerosol-forming substrate contained in a first liquid storage compartment.

[0106] [Example Ex32] An aerosol generation system according to Example Ex31, wherein the first liquid aerosol-forming substrate comprises at least one of nicotine, glycerin, polyethylene glycol, and an acid.

[0107] [Example Ex33] An aerosol generating system according to Example Ex30, Ex31, or Ex32, further comprising a second liquid storage compartment in fluid communication with a second region of a piezoelectric transducer.

[0108] [Example Ex34] An aerosol generation system according to Example Ex33, further comprising a second liquid aerosol-forming substrate contained in a second liquid storage compartment.

[0109] [Example Ex35] An aerosol generation system according to Example Ex34, wherein the second liquid aerosol-forming substrate comprises at least one of nicotine, glycerin, polyethylene glycol, and an acid.

[0110] [Example Ex36] An aerosol generation system according to Example Ex33, Ex34, or Ex35, combined with Example Ex5, Ex6, or Ex7, further comprising a third liquid storage compartment in fluid communication with a third region of a piezoelectric transducer.

[0111] [Example Ex37] An aerosol generation system according to Example Ex36, further comprising a third liquid aerosol-forming substrate contained in a third liquid storage compartment.

[0112] [Example Ex38] An aerosol generation system according to Example Ex37, wherein the third liquid aerosol-forming substrate comprises at least one of nicotine, glycerin, polyethylene glycol, and an acid.

[0113] [Example Ex39] An aerosol generating system according to Example Ex36, Ex37, or Ex38, combined with Example Ex8, 9, or 10, further comprising a fourth liquid storage compartment in fluid communication with a fourth region of a piezoelectric transducer.

[0114] [Example Ex40] An aerosol generation system according to Example Ex39, further comprising a fourth liquid aerosol-forming substrate contained in a fourth liquid storage compartment.

[0115] [Example Ex41] An aerosol generation system according to Example Ex40, wherein the fourth liquid aerosol-forming substrate comprises at least one of nicotine, glycerin, polyethylene glycol, and an acid.

[0116] [Example Ex42] An aerosol generation system according to Example Ex39, Ex40, or Ex41, combined with Example Ex11, Ex12, or Ex13, further comprising a fifth liquid storage compartment in fluid communication with a fifth region of a piezoelectric transducer.

[0117] [Example Ex43] An aerosol generation system according to Example Ex42, further comprising a fifth liquid aerosol-forming substrate contained in a fifth liquid storage compartment.

[0118] [Example Ex44] An aerosol generation system according to Example Ex43, wherein the fifth liquid aerosol-forming substrate comprises at least one of nicotine, glycerin, polyethylene glycol, and an acid.

[0119] Herein, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described, for illustrative purposes only, with reference to the attached drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0120] [Figure 1] Figure 1 shows a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generation system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] Figure 2 shows a perspective view of the piezoelectric transducer of the aerosol generation system shown in Figure 1. [Figure 3] Figure 3 shows a cross-sectional view of the piezoelectric transducer shown in Figure 2. [Figure 4] Figure 4 shows a first perspective view of the piezoelectric transducer from Figure 2, illustrating the electrical connection to the controller. [Figure 5] Figure 5 shows a second perspective view of the piezoelectric transducer from Figure 2, further illustrating the electrical connections to the controller. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0121] Figure 1 shows an aerosol generating system 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The aerosol generating system 10 comprises an aerosol generating device 12, a cartridge 14, and a mouthpiece 16. The aerosol generating device 12 comprises a device housing 18 that defines a cavity 20 for receiving the cartridge 14. The mouthpiece 16 is removable from the end of the device housing 18 to allow insertion of the cartridge 14 into the cavity 20.

[0122] The aerosol generator 12 further comprises a power supply 22 equipped with a battery, a controller 24, and a piezoelectric transducer 26 located within an aerosol generator housing 28. As further described herein, the controller 24 is configured to supply power from the power supply 22 to the piezoelectric transducer 26 to generate multiple oscillating potential differences in different regions of the piezoelectric transducer 26.

[0123] The cartridge 14 comprises a plurality of liquid storage compartments 30, each storage compartment 30 containing a liquid aerosol-forming substrate that is in fluid communication with the area of ​​the piezoelectric transducer 26.

[0124] Figures 2 and 3 show the piezoelectric transducer 26 in more detail. The piezoelectric transducer 26 has a substantially planar elliptical shape extending in the xy-plane. The piezoelectric transducer 26 has a thickness extending in the z-direction perpendicular to the xy-plane.

[0125] The piezoelectric transducer 26 comprises a first layer 32 of piezoelectric material and a second layer 34 of piezoelectric material, the first layer 32 of piezoelectric material resting on the second layer 34 of piezoelectric material. The surface of the first layer 32 of piezoelectric material forms the first surface 36 of the piezoelectric transducer 26. During use, the liquid aerosol-forming substrate from the liquid storage compartment 30 of the cartridge 14 is aerosolized on the first surface 36 of the piezoelectric transducer 26. The surface of the second layer of piezoelectric material 34 forms the second surface 38 of the piezoelectric transducer 26. The first layer 32 of piezoelectric material is in contact with the second layer 34 of piezoelectric material at the interface 40 between the first layer 32 of piezoelectric material and the second layer 34 of piezoelectric material.

[0126] The first layer 32 of the piezoelectric material has a substantially planar shape and is polarized in a first direction 42 substantially perpendicular to the planar shape. The second layer 34 of the piezoelectric material has a substantially planar shape and is polarized in a second direction 44 substantially perpendicular to the planar shape. The first direction 42 is opposite to the second direction 44.

[0127] The piezoelectric transducer 26 comprises a plurality of grooves within a first layer 32 and a second layer 34 of piezoelectric material, each groove containing an electrically insulating material. The plurality of grooves divide the piezoelectric transducer 26 into several electrically isolated regions, which may operate or drive independently of each other. Advantageously, driving each region separately facilitates driving each region in a manner adapted to a particular liquid aerosol-generating substrate. For example, different regions may be driven in at least one of different vibration modes and different frequencies, depending on a particular liquid aerosol-forming substrate to be aerosolized by each region.

[0128] In the embodiment shown in Figure 2, the piezoelectric transducer 26 includes a first groove 46, a second groove 48, a third groove 50, and a fourth groove 52, which divide the piezoelectric transducer 26 into a first region 54, a second region 56, a third region 58, a fourth region 60, and a fifth region 62. The first region 54 has a rhomboid shape, and the second region 56, the third region 58, the fourth region 60, and the fifth region 62 each have the same size and shape. Those skilled in the art will understand that within the scope of the present invention, it is possible to change the number of grooves, the number of regions, and the size and shape of the different regions.

[0129] The piezoelectric transducer 26 is fixed to the aerosol generator housing 28 only by a fixing pin 64 that extends through the center of the piezoelectric transducer 26 within the first region 54.

[0130] The controller 24 is configured to supply power from the power supply 22 to the piezoelectric transducer 26 in order to generate an oscillating potential difference in each of the first region 54, the second region 56, the third region 58, the fourth region 60, and the fifth region 62. The oscillating potential difference generated within each region causes vibration of the first layer 32 and the second layer 34 of the piezoelectric material, which atomizes the liquid aerosol-forming substrate from the liquid storage compartment 30 of the cartridge 14. Figures 4 and 5 show the electrical connections to the piezoelectric transducer 26.

[0131] In the first region 54, the controller 24 is configured to supply power to the piezoelectric transducer 26 in order to generate a first vibration potential difference between the first surface 36 and the second surface 38 of the piezoelectric transducer 26 in the first region 54. The combination of the first region 54 fixed to the aerosol generator housing 28 and the vibration potential difference between the first surface 36 and the second surface 38 results in a planar vibration of the piezoelectric transducer 26 along the z-axis of the first region 54.

[0132] In each of the second region 56, the third region 58, the fourth region 60, and the fifth region 62, the controller 24 is configured to supply power to the piezoelectric transducer 26 in order to generate an oscillating potential difference between the interface 40 and each of the first surface 36 and the second surface 38, which in turn brings about bending vibration modes of the piezoelectric transducer 26 within each region around the bending axis extending in the xy plane.

Claims

1. an aerosol generation system, aerosol generator housing and A piezoelectric transducer having an elliptical shape and comprising a first region and a second region, wherein the second region is electrically insulated from the first region, An aerosol generating system in which the piezoelectric transducer is fixed to the aerosol generator housing at a single mounting point located only within the first region.

2. The aerosol generating system according to claim 1, wherein the mounting point is located at the center of the elliptical piezoelectric transducer.

3. The aerosol generating system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the second region extends between the first region and the edge of the piezoelectric transducer.

4. The aerosol generating system according to claim 1, 2, or 3, wherein the piezoelectric transducer comprises a first groove in the surface of the piezoelectric transducer and an electrically insulating material positioned in the first groove, the first groove defining a boundary between the first region and the second region.

5. The aerosol generating system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the first region has a rhomboid shape.

6. The aerosol generating system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the piezoelectric transducer comprises a first layer of piezoelectric material and a second layer of piezoelectric material, the first layer being located on the second layer.

7. The aerosol generating system according to claim 6, wherein the first layer of the piezoelectric material is polarized in a first direction, and the second layer of the piezoelectric material is polarized in a second direction, and the first direction is opposite to the second direction.

8. The aerosol generating system according to claim 7, wherein the first layer of the piezoelectric material has a planar shape, and the first direction is perpendicular to the planar shape of the first layer of the piezoelectric material.

9. The aerosol generating system according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the second layer of the piezoelectric material has a planar shape, and the second direction is perpendicular to the planar shape of the second layer of the piezoelectric material.

10. The aerosol generating system according to claim 6, 7, 8, or 9, wherein the surface of the first layer of the piezoelectric material forms the first surface of the piezoelectric transducer, the surface of the second layer of the piezoelectric material forms the second surface of the piezoelectric transducer facing opposite directions to the first surface, and the first layer of the piezoelectric material is in contact with the second layer of the piezoelectric material at the interface between the first layer and the second layer of the piezoelectric material.

11. Power supply and The aerosol generating system according to any one of claims 1 to 10, further comprising a controller configured to supply power from the power source to the piezoelectric transducer.

12. The aerosol generating system according to claims 10 and 11, wherein the controller is configured to supply power to the piezoelectric transducer in order to generate a first vibration potential difference between the first surface of the piezoelectric transducer and the second surface of the piezoelectric transducer within the first region.

13. The aerosol generating system according to claim 12, wherein the controller is configured to supply power to the piezoelectric transducer in order to generate a second vibration potential difference between the first surface of the piezoelectric transducer and the interface between the first layer of the piezoelectric material and the second layer of the piezoelectric material within the second region.

14. The aerosol generating system according to claim 13, wherein the controller is configured to supply power to the piezoelectric transducer in order to generate a third vibration potential difference between the second surface of the piezoelectric transducer and the interface between the first layer of the piezoelectric material and the second layer of the piezoelectric material within the second region.

15. The aerosol generating system according to any one of claims 1 to 14, further comprising a first liquid storage compartment that is in fluid communication with the first region of the piezoelectric transducer.

16. The aerosol generating system according to claim 15, further comprising a first liquid aerosol-forming substrate contained in a first liquid storage compartment.

17. The aerosol generating system according to claim 15 or 16, further comprising a second liquid storage compartment that is in fluid communication with the second region of the piezoelectric transducer.

18. The aerosol generating system according to claim 17, further comprising a second liquid aerosol-forming substrate contained in a second liquid storage compartment.

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