Aerosol-generating system with laterally inserted cartridge

Abstract

The invention relates to an aerosol-generating system (10) comprising a main body (12), a replaceable mouthpiece (14), an atomizer module (16), and a replaceable cartridge (18). When the aerosol-generating system (10) is assembled, the atomizer module (16) is located in a lateral direction of the aerosol-generating system (10) between the replaceable mouthpiece (14) and the replaceable cartridge (18). The invention further relates to a method for assembling such an aerosol-generating system (10).

Description

[0001] AEROSOL-GENERATING SYSTEM WITH LATERALLY INSERTED CARTRIDGE

[0002] The present invention relates to an aerosol-generating system and a method of assembling such an aerosol-generating system.

[0003] Several types of aerosol-generating systems are currently commercially available. Such systems may heat aerosol-forming substrate to a temperature at which one or more components of the aerosol-forming substrate are volatilised without burning the aerosolforming substrate. Other systems often referred to as nebulizers typically generate aerosol by mechanical action such as by a vibrating element such as a mesh or a membrane having a distribution of holes. Vibrating nebulizers use deformation or vibration of such a vibrating element to push a liquid therethrough.

[0004] In a typical vibrating mesh nebulizer, a piezo element, which is in contact with a mesh, is used to produce vibrations of the mesh. The mesh is adjacent and in direct contact with a liquid aerosol-forming substrate. The mesh deformation of the vibrating mesh generates a pressure field in the liquid, thus pumping and loading the holes with liquid. The liquid volume displaced through the holes breaks up into droplets which are ejected through the holes of the mesh as a distribution of aerosol droplets and then transported through an airflow channel to the user.

[0005] Typically, such systems comprise a replaceable mouthpiece, an atomizer module which comprises the vibrating element, and a liquid storage portion for storing the liquid aerosol-forming substrate. The liquid storage portion can be comprised in a cartridge. The position of the individual components with respect to each other is of high important to provide a proper liquid flow and aerosol generation during usage. It is also desirable to be able to access the individual components of such a system, for example, in order to replace them.

[0006] It would be desirable to have an aerosol-generating system that provides easy replacement of the cartridge. It would be desirable to provide an aerosol-generating system with improved liquid flow during usage. It would be desirable to provide an aerosol-generating system with improved accessibility to the individual components of the system. It would be desirable to have an aerosol-generating system that enables cleaning of the replaceable mouthpiece.

[0007] According to an embodiment of the invention there is provided an aerosol-generating system comprising a main body, a replaceable mouthpiece, an atomizer module, and a replaceable cartridge. When the aerosol-generating system is assembled, the atomizer module may be located in a lateral direction of the aerosol-generating system between the replaceable mouthpiece and the replaceable cartridge. According to an embodiment of the invention there is provided an aerosol-generating system comprising a main body, a replaceable mouthpiece, an atomizer module, and a replaceable cartridge. When the aerosol-generating system is assembled, the atomizer module is located in a lateral direction of the aerosol-generating system between the replaceable mouthpiece and the replaceable cartridge.

[0008] According to an embodiment of the invention there is provided an aerosol-generating system comprising a main body, a replaceable mouthpiece, an atomizer module, and a replaceable cartridge. When the aerosol-generating system is assembled, the atomizer module is located in a lateral direction of the aerosol-generating system between the replaceable mouthpiece and the replaceable cartridge. The replaceable cartridge is connectable to the atomizer module from two sides, preferably from two perpendicular sides.

[0009] By providing an aerosol-generating system comprising an atomizer module being located in a lateral direction of the aerosol-generating system between a replaceable mouthpiece and the replaceable cartridge, easy replacement of the cartridge may be provided. By providing an aerosol-generating system comprising an atomizer module being located in a lateral direction of the aerosol-generating system between a replaceable mouthpiece and the replaceable cartridge, an aerosol-generating system with improved liquid flow during usage may be provided. By providing an aerosol-generating system comprising an atomizer module being located in a lateral direction of the aerosol-generating system between a replaceable mouthpiece and the replaceable cartridge, improved accessibility to the individual components of the system may be provided. By providing an aerosol-generating system comprising an atomizer module being located in a lateral direction of the aerosol-generating system between a replaceable mouthpiece and the replaceable cartridge, cleaning of the replaceable mouthpiece may be enabled.

[0010] As used herein, the term “aerosol-generating system” is used to describe a system that interacts with an aerosol-forming substrate to generate an aerosol. Preferably, the aerosolgenerating system is a smoking system that interacts with an aerosol-forming substrate to generate an aerosol that is directly inhalable into a user’s lungs thorough the user's mouth.

[0011] The aerosol-generating system may comprise a longitudinal axis. The longitudinal axis may extend along the longitudinal extension of the aerosol-generating system. The longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating system may extend between a proximal end of the aerosolgenerating system and a distal end of the aerosol-generating system. The lateral direction may be perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating system.

[0012] As used herein, the term ‘proximal’ refers to a user-end, or mouth-end of the aerosolgenerating system or a part or portion thereof, and the term ‘distal’ refers to the end opposite to the proximal end. As used herein the term ‘lateral’ refers to a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating system.

[0013] The aerosol-generating system may comprise a plurality of lateral axes being perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating system. The atomizer module may be located on a lateral axis of the aerosol-generating system running through the replaceable mouthpiece and the replaceable cartridge. A lateral centre axis of the cartridge which is also a lateral axis of the aerosol-generating system may run through the atomizer module and the replaceable mouthpiece.

[0014] The atomizer module may be sandwiched between the replaceable mouthpiece and the replaceable cartridge. The replaceable cartridge may be reversibly insertable from a lateral side of the aerosol-generating system. The replaceable cartridge may be reversibly removable from the aerosol-generating system without the need of removing or moving the atomizer module within the aerosol-generating system. The replaceable cartridge may be reversibly removable from the aerosol-generating system without the need of removing or moving the replaceable mouthpiece within the aerosol-generating system. The replaceable cartridge may be accessible from a lateral side of the aerosol-generating system. The replaceable cartridge may be reversibly connectable to the aerosol-generating system.

[0015] The atomizer module may comprise electrical connections. The electrical connections may provide an electrical connection to the main body. The atomizer module may comprise a vibratable transducer.

[0016] As used herein, the term “vibratable transducer” is used to refer to a device configured to convert energy from an initial form into a different form, where the different form comprises or consists of a vibratory output.

[0017] The atomizer module may comprise a piezo-electric actuator. The atomizer module may comprise a vibrating element. The vibrating element may be one of a vibrating mesh, a vibrating membrane, or a vibrating plate.

[0018] Piezo-electric actuators are preferred because they are an energy-efficient and lightweight means of providing a vibratory output from an electric input. Piezo-electric actuators possess a high energy conversion efficiency from electric to mechanical power. Further, piezoelectric actuators are available in a wide variety of materials and shapes. For a piezo-electric actuator, inputting an electrical driving signal to the piezo-electric actuator results in a mechanical output in the form of a vibration. The vibratory output from the transducer induces vibration of the vibrating membrane. So, the use of a piezo-electric actuator in or as the transducer provides an energy-efficient means of inducing vibration of the membrane. However, as an alternative to the use of piezo-electric actuators, actuator(s) including one or more of electromagnetic elements, magnetostrictive elements, or electrostrictive elements may also be employed in the vibratable transducer

[0019] The atomizer module may comprise a vibratable transducer holder configured to hold the vibratable transducer. The atomizer module may comprise the vibrating element. The vibratable transducer may be operably coupled to the vibrating membrane so as to, in use, vibrate the vibrating membrane in a substantially axial direction.

[0020] The vibratable transducer holder may be overmoulded around the vibratable transducer. The vibratable transducer may be integrated in the vibratable transducer holder. The vibratable transducer holder may comprise a flexible material. The flexible material of the vibratable transducer holder may have a hardness ranging from 5 Shore A to 120 Shore A, preferably from between 20 Shore A to 40 Shore A. The vibratable transducer holder may comprise rubber materials. By providing the vibratable transducer holder made of rubber material, the vibrating element may be kept in place without significantly damping the vibration of the vibrating element. By providing the vibratable transducer holder made of rubber material, sealing between the atomizer module and the replaceable mouthpiece may be provided. By providing the vibratable transducer holder made of rubber material, axial tolerances of the components of the aerosol-generating system may be compensated.

[0021] As used herein, the reference to “Shore A” is to the Shore A hardness scale. The Shore A hardness value of a sample of material is determined by the extent of penetration of a foot of a durometer into the sample.

[0022] The vibratable transducer holder may be axisymmetric. By providing the vibrating transducer holder axisymmetric, no orientation during assembly is required. The vibratable transducer holder may be washer shaped. The vibratable transducer holder may have a thickness of between 1 millimeter to 10 millimeters, preferably between 2 millimeters to 5 millimeters, and more preferably about 3 millimeters.

[0023] The vibratable transducer may be washer shaped. The vibratable transducer may comprise the vibrating element.

[0024] The vibrating element may be disposed on a vibrating plane and when the aerosolgenerating system is assembled, the vibrating plane may be not perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating system. The vibrating plane may be parallel to or includes the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating system. The vibrating plane may not be horizontal with respect to the aerosol-generating system. The vibrating plane may be vertical with respect to the aerosol-generating system.

[0025] The vibrating element may be flat shaped. The vibrating element may be disc shaped. The vibrating membrane may be formed of any suitable material. By way of example and without limitation, the vibrating membrane may be formed of a polymer material, thereby providing advantages of reduced mass and inertia. However, the vibrating membrane may be formed of any other suitable material, such as a metallic, semiconductor, dielectric, or ceramic material. The material may be crystalline or amorphous. The vibrating membrane may be a composite of two or more different materials. By way of example and without limitation, examples of membrane materials include stainless steel, palladium, silver, alloys such as Ni- Co or Ni-Pd, polyimide and polyamide, silicon, silicon carbide, silicon nitride, aluminium nitride, silicon oxide, ceramics based on aluminium oxide or barium titanate, or combinations thereof such as layered membranes composed of layers of silicon and silicon nitride or silicon oxide or metal. The choice of material(s) used for the vibrating membrane may be influenced by the particular liquid aerosol-forming substrate(s) intended to be used with and aerosolised by the atomizer module. For example, it is desirable to choose a material for the vibrating membrane which does not chemically react with or degrade as a consequence of contact with the chosen liquid aerosol-forming substrate. By way of example only, the vibrating membrane may be formed of any of palladium, stainless steel, copper-nickel alloy, polyimide, polyamide, silicon or aluminium nitride.

[0026] Advantageously the vibrating membrane may comprise an aerosol-generation zone, the aerosol-generation zone provided with a plurality of nozzles for the passage there-through of liquid aerosol-forming substrate. The plurality of nozzles may allow a dispersion of aerosol droplets to be ejected from the nozzles when a liquid aerosol-forming substrate is fed to one surface of the vibrating membrane The plurality of nozzles may have a diameter in a range of 1 micrometre to 20 micrometres. As used herein, the term “nozzle” is used to refer to an aperture, hole or bore through the membrane that provides a passage for liquid aerosolforming substrate to move through the membrane. By way of example and without limitation, during use of the atomizer module a liquid aerosol-forming substrate may be brought into contact with a first side of the vibrating membrane. Vibration of the vibrating membrane induced by the vibratory output of the transducer may result in the liquid substrate being urged through the nozzles to be emitted as an aerosol droplet formation pattern from a second (opposing) side of the membrane. The nozzles may be individually sized and arranged relative to each other so as to provide a predetermined aerosol droplet formation pattern.

[0027] The aerosol-generating system may not comprise a heating element. The aerosolgenerating system may comprise a heating element. The heating element may be upstream of the vibrating element. Thereby the viscosity of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate may be reduced. The aerosol generation may be performed at ambient temperatures. The aerosol generation may not need elevated temperatures.

[0028] When the aerosol-generating system is assembled, the aerosol-generating system provides a liquid flow from the replaceable cartridge to the atomizer module in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating system. The liquid flow may be provided from the replaceable cartridge to the atomizer module in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating system. The direction of the liquid flow from the replaceable cartridge to the atomizer module may be about 90 degrees to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating system. The direction of the liquid flow from the replaceable cartridge to the atomizer module may be of between 85 to 95 degrees to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating system. During usage the aerosol-generating system may be held by a user in a horizontal position. When holding the aerosol-generating system horizontal and by providing liquid flow in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, the liquid flow may be facilitated by gravity.

[0029] When the aerosol-generating system is assembled, the main body may be in direct contact with the atomizer module and with the replaceable mouthpiece. When the aerosolgenerating system is assembled, the replaceable cartridge may be not in direct contact with the main body.

[0030] The atomizer module may be L-shaped. The L-shape of the atomizer module may provide a reversable connection to the replaceable cartridge from two sides, preferably two perpendicular sides. The L-shape of the atomizer module may provide a connection to the replaceable cartridge to a distal outer surface of the cartridge and a lateral outer surface of the cartridge.

[0031] The atomizer module may comprise a locking system. The locking system may comprise a sliding portion. The sliding portion may be configured slidable in a direction along the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating system. To remove the replaceable cartridge from the atomizer module, the sliding portion may need to be pushed down along the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating system. The atomizer module may comprise at a distal end a laterally protruding portion comprising the locking system configured lockingly connectable to the replaceable cartridge. The locking system of the atomizer module may provide a reversible connection with the replaceable cartridge. The locking system may be configured reversable connectable to the distal outer surface of the replaceable cartridge. The replaceable cartridge may comprise on a distal end a connection portion configured to be lockingly connectable to the locking system of the atomizer module. The replaceable cartridge may comprise a receiving portion for receiving the sliding portion of the atomizer module.

[0032] The replaceable cartridge may be connectable to the atomizer module. The replaceable cartridge may be connectable to the atomizer module from two sides, preferably from two perpendicular sides. The replaceable cartridge may be connectable to the atomizer module from a lateral side and a distal side. The replaceable cartridge may be connectable to the atomizer module from only two sides, preferably from two perpendicular sides. The replaceable cartridge may be connectable to the atomizer module from only a lateral side and a distal side. The replaceable cartridge may be configured reversibly connectable to the atomizer module. The replaceable cartridge may be reversible connectable to the atomizer module from two sides, preferably two perpendicular sides. The replaceable cartridge may be reversibly connectable to the atomizer module via at least one of a hinge mechanism, a sliders mechanism, a snap-fit mechanism, a bayonet mechanism, a magnetic mechanism, a spring actuated mechanism, or a push-push mechanism.

[0033] The replaceable cartridge may be reversible connectable to the atomizer module via a hinge mechanism. The replaceable cartridge may comprise a hinge protrusion and the atomizer module may comprise a receiving part configured for receiving the hinge protrusion of the replaceable cartridge. The receiving part may comprise a rod. The rod may be arranged perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating system. The rod may be arranged horizontal. The hinge protrusion may be configured to hook onto the rod. The replaceable cartridge may comprise the hinge protrusion at a proximal end, and the atomizer module may comprise the receiving part at a proximal end.

[0034] The atomizer module may be configured connectable to the main body. The atomizer module may be replaceable and configured reversibly connectable to the main body.

[0035] The replaceable mouthpiece may be configured reversibly connectable to the atomizer module. The replaceable mouthpiece may be reversibly connectable to the atomizer module via at least one of a hinge mechanism, a sliders mechanism, a snap-fit mechanism, a bayonet mechanism, a magnetic mechanism, a spring actuated mechanism, or a push-push mechanism. The replaceable mouthpiece may comprise at least one recess configured for receiving at least one protruding connection portion of the atomizer module, respectively. The replaceable mouthpiece may comprise a proximal recess at a proximal end of the replaceable mouthpiece and two distal recesses at a distal end of the replaceable mouthpiece. The atomizer module may comprise a proximal protruding connection portion and two distal protruding connection portions. The proximal recess of the replaceable mouthpiece may be configured to receive the proximal protruding connection portion of the atomizer module and the distal recesses may be configured to receive the distal protruding connection portion of the atomizer module.

[0036] Alternatively, instead of the replaceable mouthpiece, an integral mouthpiece may be present, wherein the integral mouthpiece and the atomizer module may be a single integral element, or the integral mouthpiece and the main body may be a single integral element.

[0037] The at least one recess of the replaceable mouthpiece may be shaped to provide a slidable insertion with the at least one protruding connection portion of the atomizer module. The replaceable cartridge may comprise a liquid storage portion configured for storing liquid aerosol-forming substrate. The liquid storage portion may be configured to store a volume of between 0.5 milliliter to 10 milliliters aerosol-forming substate, preferably between

[0038] 1 milliliter to 3 milliliters. The liquid storage portion may comprise internal walls. The internal walls may increase the structural rigidity of the replaceable cartridge. The internal walls may comprise an inclined wall. The inclined wall may promote the liquid aerosol-forming substate to be located in a distal portion of the replaceable cartridge. The inclined wall may reduce dead volume of liquid in a distal corner or the liquid storage portion.

[0039] As used herein, the term ‘aerosol-forming substrate’ may relate to a substrate capable of releasing volatile compounds that can form an aerosol or a vapor. The term ‘aerosol-forming substrate’ may also relate to a substrate capable to be mechanically nebulized. The aerosolforming substrate may be in gel form or may be in liquid form. The terms ‘aerosol’ and ‘vapor’ are used synonymously. The aerosol-forming substrate may be liquid.

[0040] As used herein, the term ‘liquid’ refers to a substance provided in liquid form and encompasses substances provided in the form of a gel.

[0041] The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise nicotine. The nicotine-containing aerosolforming substrate may be a nicotine salt matrix.

[0042] The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise plant-based material. The aerosolforming substrate may comprise tobacco.

[0043] The replaceable cartridge may comprise a fluid permeable element being in fluid communication with the liquid storage portion. The inclined wall may guide the liquid aerosolforming substrate towards the fluid permeable portion. The fluid permeable element may have a cylindrical shape. The fluid permeable element may be cylindrical. The fluid permeable element may comprise or consists of a porous material. The fluid permeable element may comprise or consists of a porous wicking material. The fluid permeable element may be a cylindrical wick. The fluid permeable element may comprise or consist of at least one of natural fibers, synthetic polymeric fibers, polyethylene or polypropylene fibers, porous ceramic material, cellulose fibers.

[0044] The fluid permeable element may be arranged on a lateral side of the replaceable cartridge. A portion of the fluid permeable element may be protruding from an outer surface of the replaceable cartridge. The protruding portion may be arranged on the lateral outer surface of the replaceable cartridge. The protruding portion may protrude from the lateral outer surface of between 0.05 millimeters to 5 millimeters, preferably between 0.3 millimeters to

[0045] 2 millimeters. Before the replaceable cartridge is connected to the atomizer unit, a user may peel of a cap or seal protecting the protruding portion during storage of the replaceable cartridge. The protruding portion may comprise an end surface. When the aerosol-generating system is assembled, the end surface may be located parallel to the vibrating element. When the aerosol-generating system is assembled, the fluid permeable element may face the vibrating element.

[0046] When the aerosol-generating system is assembled, the fluid permeable element may be in fluid communication with the vibrating element. When the aerosol-generating system is assembled, there may be a gap between the fluid permeable element and the vibrating element. By providing a gap between the fluid permeable element and the vibrating element when the aerosol-generating system is assembled, the gap may be filled with liquid aerosolforming substrate by capillary forces. The gap may be larger than 0 millimeter and smaller than 0.5 millimeter. The gap may be of between 0.01 millimeter to 0.5 millimeter, preferably between 0.02 millimeter to 0.2 millimeter, more preferably 0.1 millimeter.

[0047] The replaceable cartridge may comprise a retainer. The retainer may be positioned in the liquid storage portion. The retainer may comprise an inner volume. The inner volume may be in fluid communication with the liquid storage portion. The retainer may be configured to retain the fluid permeable element. The retainer may be configured to retain the fluid permeable element in the inner volume. The retainer may comprise openings. The openings of the retainer may provide the fluid communication with the liquid storage portion. The openings may be elongate. By providing elongate openings in the retainer, a better performance than with a circular geometry, may be provided because obstruction of the openings by air bubbles may be prevented.

[0048] The replaceable cartridge may comprise at least one sealing member. The at least one sealing member may be arranged on the lateral outer surface of the replaceable cartridge. The at least one sealing member may be arranged coaxially around the protruding portion of the fluid permeable element. The at least one sealing member may comprise two coaxially arranged sealing rings. The two coaxially arranged sealing rings may be a first and a second sealing ring. The first sealing ring may have a smaller diameter than the second sealing ring.

[0049] The at least one sealing member of the replaceable cartridge may face the vibratable transducer holder when the replaceable cartridge is connected to the atomizer module. The at least one sealing member of the replaceable cartridge may have a smaller diameter than the vibratable transducer holder. The at least one sealing member of the replaceable cartridge may slightly be compressed when the replaceable cartridge is connected to the atomizer module. The at least one sealing member of the replaceable cartridge may provide an air-tight sealing with the atomizer module, preferably a liquid-tight connection.

[0050] Preferably the hardness of the sealing member may lie within a range of 5 Shore A to 120 Shore A. More preferably, the hardness of the sealing member may lie within a range of 20 Shore A to 40 Shore A. Preferably the Young’s modulus of the sealing member may lie within a range of 0.001 GPa to 1 GPa. More preferably the Young’s modulus of the sealing member may lie within a range of 0.01 GPa to 0.1 GPa.

[0051] By way of example, the sealing members may be formed from materials such as neoprene rubber, natural rubber, silicone rubber, nitrile rubber, ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) rubber, styrene-butadiene rubber; silicone rubber is preferred due to its biocompatibility. The hardness and Young’s modulus may also be influenced by any processing steps undertaken on the material used for sealing member; for example, the addition of one or more additives to the material selected for the sealing member.

[0052] Preferably the axial thickness of the sealing members may lie within a range of 1 millimeter to 10 millimeters. More preferably the axial thickness of the sealing member may lie within a range of 2 millimeters to 5 millimeters.

[0053] The atomizer module may comprise electrical connection means configured to be electrically connected to the main body. The main body may comprise at least one of a power supply, control electronics and a pressure sensor.

[0054] The power supply may require recharging and may have a capacity that enables to store enough energy for one or more user experiences, for example, the power supply may have sufficient capacity to continuously generate aerosol for a period of around six minutes or for a period of a multiple of six minutes. In another example, the power supply may have sufficient capacity to provide a predetermined number of puffs. The aerosol-generating system may comprise a charging port for recharging the power supply.

[0055] The power supply may be a direct current (DC) power supply. In one embodiment, the power supply is a DC power supply having a DC supply voltage in the range of 2.5 Volts to 4.5 Volts and a DC supply current in the range of 1 Amp to 10 Amps (corresponding to a DC power supply in the range of 2.5 Watts to 45 Watts). The main body may advantageously comprise a direct current to alternating current (DC / AC) inverter for converting a DC current supplied by the DC power supply to an alternating current. The DC / AC converter may comprise a Class-D, Class-C or Class-E power amplifier. The AC power output of the DC / AC converter is supplied to the induction coil.

[0056] The control electronics may be configured to control a supply of power from the power supply to the atomizer module so as to, in use, activate the vibratable transducer.

[0057] The control electronics may include one or more controller modules and / or processors configured for use in generating an input driving signal for the vibratable transducer, as well as any computer-readable medium storing instructions for use in the generating of the input driving signal. The computer-readable medium may contain instructions for use in the generating of the input driving signal by the controller modules and / or processors. The computer-readable medium may preferably be a non-transitory computer-readable medium.

[0058] Preferably, the power source is rechargeable. By way of example, the power source may comprise a lithium-ion battery.

[0059] The main body may comprise a main body housing. The replaceable cartridge may comprise a cartridge housing. The atomizer module may comprise an atomizer housing. At least one of the main body housing, cartridge housing, atomizer housing, and rigid housing may be formed from materials such as rigid plastic material (such as but not limited to polypropylene, high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyetheretherketone (PEEK), or polysulfone (PSU)) or a metallic material (such as but not limited to aluminium).

[0060] The main body housing may be elongate. The main 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 those materials, or thermoplastics that are suitable for food or pharmaceutical applications, for example polypropylene, polyetheretherketone (PEEK) and polyethylene. Preferably, the material is light and non-brittle. The main body housing may include a user interface to activate the aerosol-generating system, for example a button to initiate heating of the aerosol-generating system or a display to indicate a state of the aerosol-generating system or of the aerosol-forming substrate.

[0061] The replaceable mouthpiece for an aerosol-generating system. The replaceable mouthpiece may comprise one or more of a mouth-end portion comprising an aerosol outlet, an aerosol inlet, an aerosol channel extending between the aerosol inlet and the aerosol outlet, an air inlet, an air inlet channel extending between the air inlet and the aerosol channel. A downstream portion of the air inlet channel may be inclined with respect to the aerosol channel.

[0062] By providing a replaceable mouthpiece comprising a downstream portion of an air inlet channel that is inclined with respect to an aerosol channel, an aerosol-generating system may be provided that reduces, preferably minimizes, the deposition of particles, in particular droplets, on internal walls during usage. By providing a replaceable mouthpiece comprising a downstream portion of an air inlet channel that is inclined with respect to an aerosol channel, an aerosol-generating system may be provided which reduces, preferably minimizes, the deposition of particles, in particular droplets, on internal walls during usage. By providing a replaceable mouthpiece comprising a downstream portion of an air inlet channel that is inclined with respect to an aerosol channel, a replaceable mouthpiece with an improved airflow design may be provided.

[0063] The replaceable mouthpiece may comprise a longitudinal axis. The longitudinal axis of the replaceable mouthpiece may be parallel to a longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating system. The longitudinal axis of the replaceable mouthpiece may extend between a proximal end of the replaceable mouthpiece and a distal end of the replaceable mouthpiece.

[0064] The aerosol channel may comprise a downstream portion and an upstream portion, and one turn between the upstream portion and the downstream portion. The aerosol channel may comprise only one turn. The downstream portion and the upstream portion may extend in different directions. The air inlet channel may join the aerosol channel in an area of the turn of the aerosol channel. The turn may be at least 45 degrees, preferably about 90 degrees. The upstream portion of the aerosol channel may be perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the replaceable mouthpiece. The downstream portion of the aerosol channel may not be perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the replaceable mouthpiece. The downstream portion of the aerosol channel may be parallel to the longitudinal axis of the replaceable mouthpiece. The aerosol-outlet may be arranged in an aerosol outlet plane. The aerosol outlet plane may be perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the replaceable mouthpiece. The aerosol inlet may be arranged in an aerosol inlet plane. The aerosol inlet plane may be parallel to the longitudinal axis of the replaceable mouthpiece.

[0065] As used herein, the terms ‘upstream’ and ‘downstream’ are used to describe the relative positions of components, or portions of components, of the aerosol-generating system in relation to the direction in which a user draws on the aerosol-generating device during use thereof.

[0066] Alternatively, the aerosol channel may be straight and perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the replaceable mouthpiece. In this embodiment the mouth-end portion may be arranged on a lateral side of the aerosol-generating device and the aerosol-generating system may be held vertically.

[0067] During usage of the aerosol-generating system, the air inlet channel may be configured to direct a wall of ambient air against an aerosol flow in the aerosol channel. The wall of ambient air may be configured to reduce, preferably prevent, a direct contact of the aerosol flow with the turn between the upstream portion and the downstream portion. During usage of the aerosol-generating system, the air inlet channel may be configured to direct a wall of ambient air against a wall of the aerosol channel. The wall of ambient air may reduce or prevent droplet deposition of the aerosol on internal walls of the aerosol-channel. The wall of ambient air may minimize collision and coalescence of the aerosol particles on internal walls of the aerosol-channel.

[0068] The downstream portion of the air inlet channel may comprise a longitudinal axis. The longitudinal axis of the downstream portion of the air inlet channel may not be parallel to the longitudinal axis of the replaceable mouthpiece. The longitudinal axis of the downstream portion of the air inlet channel may not be perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the replaceable mouthpiece. The longitudinal axis of the downstream portion of the air inlet channel may enclose an angle of between 0 to 90 degrees with the longitudinal axis of the replaceable mouthpiece, preferably an angle of between 40 to 80 degrees.

[0069] The replaceable mouthpiece according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the aerosol inlet may be configured connectable to an atomizer module of the aerosol-generating system. The aerosol inlet may be axially circumscribed by a replaceable mouthpiece sealing member. The replaceable mouthpiece sealing member may be rubber seal. The replaceable mouthpiece sealing member may slightly be compressed when the replaceable mouthpiece is connected to the atomizer module. The replaceable mouthpiece sealing member may provide an air-tight sealing with the atomizer module, preferably a liquid-tight connection.

[0070] The air inlet channel may comprise an upstream portion. The upstream portion of the air inlet channel may be connected to a pressure sensor channel, wherein the pressure sensor channel may be configured connectable to the main body of the aerosol-generating system comprising the pressure sensor. The pressure sensor channel may comprise a pressure sensor opening. The pressure sensor opening may be configured to be fluidly connected to a pressure sensor of a connected main body. The pressure sensor opening may be axially surrounded by a sealing, preferably a rubber sealing. The sealing may slightly be compressed when the pressure sensor channel is connectable to the main body.

[0071] The air Inlet may comprise a flow restriction. The flow restriction may Increase the resistance to draw (RTD) of the aerosol-generating system.

[0072] The aerosol channel may have a cross-section having a circular or oval shape, or a shape of a rectangle with rounded corners.

[0073] The replaceable mouthpiece may comprise a proximal portion and a distal portion. The proximal portion may comprise the aerosol channel, and the distal portion may comprise the air inlet channel. The air inlet may be arranged at a distal end of the replaceable mouthpiece, preferably at a lateral side of the distal end. The air inlet channel may have a cross-section having a non-circular shape. The air inlet channel may have a cross-section having an oval shape or a shape of a rectangle with rounded corners.

[0074] The main body may comprise a puff sensor. The puff sensor may be situated downstream of the flow restriction. The puff sensor may be a pressure sensor. The pressure sensor may comprise any suitable type of pressure sensor. The pressure sensor may be configured to detect that a negative pressure is applied to the aerosol outlet, for example when a user takes a puff. Providing an aerosol-generating system with a pressure sensor configured to detect the pressure in an airflow path through the aerosol-generating system may enable the aerosol-generating system to detect when a user is taking a puff on the replaceable mouthpiece of the aerosol-generating system. The flow restriction may enable the puff detection through the pressure sensor.

[0075] According to an embodiment of the invention there is provided a method for assembling the aerosol-generating system described herein. The method may comprise at least one of reversibly connecting the atomizer module to the main body, reversibly connecting the replaceable mouthpiece to the atomizer module, reversibly connecting the replaceable cartridge to the atomizer module from a lateral side of the aerosol-generating system.

[0076] The replaceable mouthpiece may be connected to the atomizer module by an insertion from a lateral side of the aerosol-generating system, followed by a sliding movement in a longitudinal direction towards the main body.

[0077] The replaceable cartridge may be connected to the atomizer module via a hinge mechanism. The replaceable cartridge may be connected to the atomizer module by hooking the hinge protrusion to the rod. After hooking the hinge protrusion to the rod, the replaceable cartridge may be rotated downward towards the distal end of the atomizer module. Afterwards the replaceable cartridge may lockingly engage to the atomizer module via the locking system.

[0078] The replaceable cartridge may be removed from the aerosol-generating system by sliding down the sliding portion and removing the hinge protrusion from the rod of the atomizer module.

[0079] Below, there is provided a non-exhaustive list of non-limiting examples. Any one or more of the features of these examples may be combined with any one or more features of another example, embodiment, or aspect described herein.

[0080] Example Ex1. An aerosol-generating system comprising: a main body; a replaceable mouthpiece; an atomizer module; and a replaceable cartridge; wherein, when the aerosol-generating system is assembled, the atomizer module is located in a lateral direction of the aerosol-generating system between the replaceable mouthpiece and the replaceable cartridge.

[0081] Example Ex2. The aerosol-generating system according to example Ex1 , wherein the replaceable cartridge is reversibly insertable from a lateral side of the aerosol-generating system.

[0082] Example Ex3. The aerosol-generating system according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the atomizer module comprises a piezo-electric actuator.

[0083] Example Ex4. The aerosol-generating system according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the atomizer module comprises a vibrating element. Example Ex5. The aerosol-generating system according to example Ex4, wherein the vibrating element is one of a vibrating mesh, a vibrating membrane, or a vibrating plate.

[0084] Example Ex6. The aerosol-generating system according to any of examples Ex4 or Ex5, wherein the vibrating element is disposed on a vibrating plane, wherein, when the aerosolgenerating system is assembled, the vibrating plane is not perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating system, preferably wherein the vibrating plane is parallel to or includes the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating system.

[0085] Example Ex7. The aerosol-generating system according to any of examples Ex4 to Ex6, wherein the vibrating element is flat shaped, preferably disc shaped.

[0086] Example Ex8. The aerosol-generating system according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the aerosol-generating system does not comprise a heating element.

[0087] Example Ex9. The aerosol-generating system according to any of the preceding examples, wherein, when the aerosol-generating system is assembled, the aerosol-generating system provides a liquid flow from the replaceable cartridge to the atomizer module in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating system.

[0088] Example Ex10. The aerosol-generating system according to any of the preceding examples, wherein, when the aerosol-generating system is assembled, the main body is in direct contact with the atomizer module and with the replaceable mouthpiece.

[0089] Example Ex11 . The aerosol-generating system according to any of the preceding examples, wherein, when the aerosol-generating system is assembled, the replaceable cartridge is not in direct contact with the main body.

[0090] Example Ex12. The aerosol-generating system according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the atomizer module is L-shaped.

[0091] Example Ex13. The aerosol-generating system according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the atomizer module comprises at a distal end a laterally protruding portion comprising a locking system configured lockingly connectable to the replaceable cartridge.

[0092] Example Ex13a. The aerosol-generating system according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the replaceable cartridge is connectable to the atomizer module from two sides, preferably from two perpendicular sides.

[0093] Example Ex13b. The aerosol-generating system according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the replaceable cartridge may be connectable to the atomizer module from only two sides, preferably from two perpendicular sides.

[0094] Example Ex13c. The aerosol-generating system according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the replaceable cartridge is connectable to the atomizer module from a lateral side and a distal side. Example Ex13d. The aerosol-generating system according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the replaceable cartridge is connectable to the atomizer module from only a lateral side and a distal side.

[0095] Example Ex14. The aerosol-generating system according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the replaceable cartridge is configured reversibly connectable to the atomizer module.

[0096] Example Ex14a. The aerosol-generating system according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the replaceable cartridge is configured reversibly connectable to the atomizer module from two sides, preferably from two perpendicular sides

[0097] Example Ex15. The aerosol-generating system according to example Ex14 to example Ex 14a, wherein the replaceable cartridge is reversibly connectable to the atomizer module via at least one of a hinge mechanism, a sliders mechanism, a snap-fit mechanism, a bayonet mechanism, a magnetic mechanism, a spring actuated mechanism, or a push-push mechanism.

[0098] Example Ex16. The aerosol-generating system according to example Ex15, wherein the replaceable cartridge is reversible connectable to the atomizer module via a hinge mechanism, and the replaceable cartridge comprises a hinge protrusion and the atomizer module comprises a receiving part configured for receiving the hinge protrusion of the replaceable cartridge.

[0099] Example Ex17. The aerosol-generating system according to example Ex16, wherein the replaceable cartridge comprises the hinge protrusion at a proximal end, and the atomizer module comprises the receiving part at a proximal end.

[0100] Example Ex18. The aerosol-generating system according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the atomizer module is configured connectable to the main body, preferably wherein the atomizer module is replaceable and configured reversibly connectable to the main body.

[0101] Example Ex19. The aerosol-generating system according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the replaceable mouthpiece is configured reversibly connectable to the atomizer module.

[0102] Example Ex20. The aerosol-generating system according to example Ex19, wherein the replaceable mouthpiece is reversibly connectable to the atomizer module via at least one of a hinge mechanism, a sliders mechanism, a snap-fit mechanism, a bayonet mechanism, a magnetic mechanism, a spring actuated mechanism, or a push-push mechanism.

[0103] Example Ex21. The aerosol-generating system according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the replaceable mouthpiece comprises: a mouth-end portion comprising an aerosol outlet; an aerosol inlet; an aerosol channel extending between the aerosol inlet and the aerosol outlet; an air inlet, an air inlet channel extending between the air inlet and the aerosol channel; wherein a downstream portion of the air inlet channel is inclined with respect to the aerosol channel.

[0104] Example Ex22. The aerosol-generating system according to example Ex21 , wherein the aerosol channel comprises a downstream portion and an upstream portion, and one turn between the upstream portion and the downstream portion, preferably wherein the aerosol channel comprises only one turn.

[0105] Example Ex23. The aerosol-generating system according to example Ex22, wherein the air inlet channel joins the aerosol channel in an area of the turn of the aerosol channel.

[0106] Example Ex24. The aerosol-generating system according to any of examples Ex22 or 23, wherein the turn is at least 45 degrees, preferably about 90 degrees.

[0107] Example Ex25. The aerosol-generating system according to any of examples Ex22 to 24, wherein the upstream portion of the aerosol channel is perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the replaceable mouthpiece.

[0108] Example Ex26. The aerosol-generating system according to example Ex25, wherein the downstream portion of the aerosol channel is not perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the replaceable mouthpiece, preferably wherein the downstream portion of the aerosol channel is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the replaceable mouthpiece.

[0109] Example Ex27. The aerosol-generating system according to example Ex21 , wherein the aerosol channel is straight and is perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the replaceable mouthpiece.

[0110] Example Ex28. The aerosol-generating system according to any of examples Ex21 to Ex27, wherein during usage of the aerosol-generating system, the air inlet channel is configured to direct a wall of ambient air against an aerosol flow in aerosol channel.

[0111] Example Ex29. The aerosol-generating system according to any of examples Ex21 to 28, wherein the wall of ambient air is configured to reduce, preferably prevent, a direct contact of the aerosol flow with the turn of example Ex22.

[0112] Example Ex30. The aerosol-generating system according to any of examples Ex21 to Ex29, wherein during usage of the aerosol-generating system, the air inlet channel is configured to direct a wall of ambient air against a wall of the aerosol channel. Example Ex31 . The aerosol-generating system according to any of examples Ex21 to Ex30, wherein the downstream portion of the air inlet channel comprises a longitudinal axis which encloses an angle of between 0 to 90 degrees with the longitudinal axis of the replaceable mouthpiece, preferably an angle of between 40 to 80 degrees.

[0113] Example Ex32. The aerosol-generating system according to any of examples Ex21 to 31 , wherein the aerosol inlet is configured connectable to an atomizer module of the aerosol-generating system.

[0114] Example Ex33. The aerosol-generating system according to any of examples Ex21 to Ex32, wherein an upstream portion of the air inlet channel is connected to a pressure sensor channel, wherein the pressure sensor channel is configured connectable to a main body of the aerosol-generating system comprising a pressure sensor.

[0115] Example Ex34. The aerosol-generating system according to any of examples Ex21 to Ex33, wherein the air inlet comprises a flow restriction.

[0116] Example Ex35. The aerosol-generating system according to any of examples Ex21 to Ex34, wherein the aerosol channel has a cross-section having a circular or oval shape, or a shape of a rectangle with rounded corners.

[0117] Example Ex36. The aerosol-generating system according to any of examples Ex21 to Ex35, comprising a proximal portion and a distal portion, wherein the proximal portion comprises the aerosol channel, and the distal portion comprises the air inlet channel.

[0118] Example Ex37. The aerosol-generating system according to any of examples Ex21 to Ex36, wherein the air inlet is arranged at a distal end of the replaceable mouthpiece, preferably at a lateral side of the distal end.

[0119] Example Ex38. The aerosol-generating system according to any of examples Ex21 to Ex37, wherein the air inlet channel has a cross-section having a non-circular shape.

[0120] Example Ex39. The aerosol-generating system according to any of examples Ex21 to Ex38, wherein the air inlet channel has a cross-section having an oval shape or a shape of a rectangle with rounded corners.

[0121] Example Ex40. The aerosol-generating system according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the replaceable cartridge comprises a liquid storage portion configured for storing liquid aerosol-forming substrate.

[0122] Example Ex41. The aerosol-generating system according to example Ex40, wherein the replaceable cartridge comprises a fluid permeable element being in fluid communication with the liquid storage portion.

[0123] Example Ex42. The aerosol-generating system according to example Ex41 , wherein the fluid permeable element has a cylindrical shape, preferably wherein the fluid permeable element is cylindrical. Example Ex43. The aerosol-generating system according to any of example Ex41 or Ex42, wherein the fluid permeable element comprises or consists of a porous material, preferably wherein the fluid permeable element comprises or consists of a porous wicking material.

[0124] Example Ex44. The aerosol-generating system according to any of examples Ex41 to Ex43, wherein the fluid permeable element is arranged on a lateral side of the replaceable cartridge, preferably wherein a portion of the fluid permeable element is protruding from an outer surface of the replaceable cartridge.

[0125] Example Ex45. The aerosol-generating system according to example Ex44, wherein the protruding portion comprises an end surface, wherein, when the aerosolgenerating system is assembled, the end surface is located parallel to the vibrating element of example Ex4.

[0126] Example Ex46. The aerosol-generating system according to any of the preceding examples Ex41 to Ex45, wherein, when the aerosol-generating system is assembled, the fluid permeable element faces the vibrating element of example Ex4, preferably wherein the fluid permeable element is in fluid communication with the vibrating element of example Ex4.

[0127] Example Ex47. The aerosol-generating system according to any of examples Ex41 to Ex46, wherein when the aerosol-generating system is assembled, there is a gap between the fluid permeable element and the vibrating element of example Ex4, preferably wherein the gap is of between 0.01 millimeter to 0.5 millimeter, more preferably between 0.02 millimeter to 0.2 millimeter.

[0128] Example Ex48. The aerosol-generating system according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the atomizer module comprises electrical connection means configured to be electrically connected to the main body.

[0129] Example Ex49. The aerosol-generating system according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the main body comprises at least one of a power supply, control electronics and a pressure sensor.

[0130] Example Ex50. A method for assembling the aerosol-generating system according to any of the preceding examples, comprising reversibly connecting the atomizer module to the main body, reversibly connecting the replaceable mouthpiece to the atomizer module, reversibly connecting the replaceable cartridge to the atomizer module from a lateral side of the aerosol-generating system.

[0131] Example Ex50a. The method according to example Ex50, wherein the replaceable mouthpiece is connected to the atomizer module from two sides. Example Ex51. The method according to example Ex50 or example Ex 50a, wherein the replaceable mouthpiece is connected to the atomizer module by an insertion from a lateral side of the aerosol-generating system, followed by a sliding movement in a longitudinal direction towards the main body.

[0132] Example Ex52. The method according to any of examples Ex50 or Ex51 , wherein the replaceable cartridge is connected to the atomizer module via a hinge mechanism.

[0133] Features described in relation to one embodiment may equally be applied to other embodiments of the invention.

[0134] The invention will be further described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

[0135] Fig. 1 shows an aerosol-generating system;

[0136] Figs. 2A to 2E show the connection mechanism of the individual components of the aerosol-generating system;

[0137] Figs. 3A and 3B show a cartridge of the aerosol-generating system; Fig. 3C shows the atomizer module;

[0138] Fig. 4A shows the aerosol-generation and airflow of the aerosol-generating system; Figs 4B and 4C show the design of the replaceable mouthpiece;

[0139] Fig. 5A to 5F shows different designs the replaceable mouthpiece of the aerosolgenerating system;

[0140] Fig. 1 shows an aerosol-generating system 10 in an assembled state. The aerosolgenerating system comprises a main body 12, a replaceable mouthpiece 14, an atomizer module 16 and a replaceable cartridge 18. The atomizer module 16 is located in a lateral direction 20 of the aerosol-generating system 10 between the replaceable mouthpiece 14 and the replaceable cartridge 18. The lateral direction or axis 20 is perpendicular to a longitudinal axis 22 of the aerosol-generating system 10. The atomizer module 16 is sandwiched between the replaceable mouthpiece 14 and the replaceable cartridge 18. The replaceable cartridge 18 is directly connected to the atomizer module 16, but not to the main body 12, due to the L- shape of the atomizer module 16.

[0141] Figs. 2A to 2C show the connection mechanism of the replaceable cartridge 18 to the atomizer module 16. In Fig. 2A the replaceable cartridge 18 is shown in a disassembled state from the aerosol-generating system 10. The replaceable cartridge 18 comprises a hinge protrusion 24 on a proximal end of the replaceable cartridge 18. The hinge protrusion 24 is configured to be hooked onto to a rod 26 of the atomizer module 16. The distal end of the atomizer module 16 comprises at a laterally protruding portion 28 a locking system comprising a sliding portion 30. The sliding portion 30 is configured lockingly connectable to the hinge protrusion 24. The replaceable cartridge 18 comprise a receiving portion 32 for receiving the sliding portion 30 of the atomizer module 16.

[0142] After hooking the hinge protrusion 24 onto the rod 26 the replaceable cartridge 18 can be rotated downward towards the distal end of the atomizer module 16 (see Fig. 2B). Afterwards the replaceable cartridge 18 can be lockingly engaged to the atomizer 16 module via the sliding portion 30 being received within the receiving portion 32 of the replaceable cartridge 18 resulting in the assembled state of the aerosol-generating system shown in Fig. 2C. To remove the replaceable cartridge 18 from the atomizer module 16, the sliding portion 30 needs to be pushed down along the longitudinal axis 22 of the aerosol-generating system 10.

[0143] Figs. 2D and 2E show the connection of the replaceable mouthpiece 14 to the atomizer module 16. The replaceable mouthpiece 14 is connected to the atomizer module 16 by an insertion from a lateral side of the aerosol-generating system 10, illustrated by arrow 1., followed by a sliding movement in a longitudinal direction towards the main body 12, illustrated by arrow 2.

[0144] The replaceable mouthpiece 14 comprises a proximal recess 34 at a proximal end of the replaceable mouthpiece and two distal recesses 36 and 36’ at a distal end of the replaceable mouthpiece 14. The atomizer module 16 comprises a proximal protruding connection portion 38 and two distal protruding connection portion 40 and 40’. The proximal recess 34 of the replaceable mouthpiece 14 is configured to receive the proximal protruding connection portion 38 of the atomizer module 18 and the distal recesses 36 and 36’ are configured to receive the distal protrusions 40 and 40’ of the atomizer module 16, respectively. The recesses 34, 36 and 36’ of the replaceable mouthpiece 14 are shaped to provide a slidable insertion with the protruding connection portion 38, 40 and 40’ of the atomizer module 16.

[0145] Fig. 3A shows an outer view of the replaceable cartridge 18 and Fig 3B a cross- sectional view of the replaceable cartridge 18. The replaceable cartridge 18 comprises the hinge protrusion 24, first and second sealing rings 42 and 42’, a protruding portion 44 of a fluid permeable element 46, and a retainer 48 positioned in a liquid storage portion 50. The liquid storage portion 50 comprises liquid aerosol-forming substrate (not shown). The retainer 48 is configured to retain the fluid permeable element 46. The retainer 48 comprise at least one elongate opening 52. The at least one elongate opening 52 of the retainer 48 provide the fluid communication with the liquid storage portion 50.

[0146] The fluid permeable element 46 is a cylindrical porous wick. The protruding portion 44 protrudes from a lateral outer surface 54 of the replaceable cartridge 18. The protruding portion 44 may protrude from the lateral outer surface 54 of between 0.05 millimeters to 5 millimeters, preferably between 0.3 millimeters to 2 millimeters. Fig. 3C shows the atomizer module 16 and a close up of a vibratable transducer holder 56 comprising a washer shaped vibratable transducer 58 which holds a vibrating membrane 60. The vibratable transducer holder 56 is overmoulded around the vibratable transducer 58. The vibratable transducer 58 is preferably a piezo-electric actuator. The vibratable transducer holder 56 comprises electrical connections 62 configured connectable to the power supply of the main body (not shown).

[0147] When the aerosol-generating system is assembled, an end surface 64 of the fluid permeable element 46 is located parallel to the vibrating element 60. When the aerosolgenerating system 10 is assembled (not shown in Figs. 3), and the fluid permeable element 46 faces the vibrating element 60 of the atomizer module 16. In an assembled state, the fluid permeable element 46 and the vibrating element 60 are in fluid communication to each other.

[0148] Fig. 4A shows the aerosol generation during usage of the aerosol-generating system 10. Liquid aerosol forming substrate flows from the liquid storage portion 50 through the openings of the retainer 48 towards and through the fluid permeable element 46 illustrated by arrows 62. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate then flows from the end surface 64 of the fluid permeable element 46 towards the vibrating membrane 60 where an aerosol is generated in an aerosol-generation zone, the aerosol flow is illustrated by arrows 66. As can be seen in Fig. 4A, in an assembled state of the aerosol-generating system 10, the vibrating membrane 60 is arranged parallel to the longitudinal axis 20 of the aerosol-generating system 10. Preferably a small gap is provided between the vibrating membrane 60 and the end surface 64 of the fluid permeable element. The gap may be of between 0.01 millimeter to 0.5 millimeter, preferably between 0.02 millimeter to 0.2 millimeter.

[0149] The replaceable mouthpiece 14 comprise a mouth-end portion comprising an aerosol outlet 68, an aerosol inlet 70 (see Fig 4B), an aerosol channel 72 (see Fig. 4C) extending between the aerosol inlet 70 and the aerosol outlet 68, an air inlet 74 (see Fig 4C), an air inlet channel 76 extending between the air inlet 74 and the aerosol channel 72. A downstream portion 78 of the air inlet channel 76 is inclined with respect to the aerosol channel 72.

[0150] The downstream portion 78 of the air inlet channel 76 comprises a longitudinal axis 80. The longitudinal axis 80 of the downstream portion 78 of the air inlet channel 76 encloses an angle 82 with the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating system 22 which is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the replaceable mouthpiece (not shown). The angle 82 is between 0 to 90 degrees, preferably between 40 to 80 degrees.

[0151] During usage of the aerosol-generating system 10, the air inlet channel 76 directs a wall 84 of ambient air, shown by the arrows 86, against the aerosol flow 66 in the aerosol channel 72. The aerosol inlet 70 is axially circumscribed by a replaceable mouthpiece sealing member 90 provide an air- and / or liquid-tight sealing with the atomizer module 16.

[0152] The air inlet channel 76 may be connected to a pressure sensor channel 92. The pressure sensor channel 92 is configured connectable to the main body 12 comprising a pressure sensor 94.

[0153] Figs. 5A to 5C shown outer views of aerosol-generating systems having different configurations of the mouth-end portions. Fig. 5A shows the replaceable mouthpiece 16 previously discussed. Fig. 5B shows a replaceable mouthpiece 16’ having an oblige aerosol channel 72’. Fig. 5C shows a replaceable mouthpiece 16” having a straight but laterally arranged aerosol channel 72”. The aerosol channel 72 of the replaceable mouthpiece shown in Fig. 5A comprises a turn of about 90 degrees. The aerosol channel 72 of the replaceable mouthpiece shown in Fig. 5AB comprises a turn of about 45 degrees. The aerosol channel 72 of the replaceable mouthpiece shown in Fig. 5C comprises no turn and is thus straight.

[0154] Figs. 5D to 5F show cross-sections of the systems shown in Figs. 5A to 5C. As can be seen in all configurations of the aerosol-channels, the downstream portions 78, 78’ and 78” are inclined with respect to the aerosol channel.

Claims

CLAIMS1. An aerosol-generating system comprising: a main body; a replaceable mouthpiece; an atomizer module; and a replaceable cartridge; wherein, when the aerosol-generating system is assembled, the atomizer module is located in a lateral direction of the aerosol-generating system between the replaceable mouthpiece and the replaceable cartridge, wherein the replaceable cartridge is connectable to the atomizer module from two sides, preferably from two perpendicular sides.

2. The aerosol-generating system according to claim 1 , wherein the replaceable cartridge is reversibly insertable from a lateral side of the aerosol-generating system.

3. The aerosol-generating system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the atomizer module comprises one or both of a piezo-electric actuator and a vibrating element, preferably wherein the vibrating element is one of a vibrating mesh, a vibrating membrane, or a vibrating plate.

4. The aerosol-generating system according to claim 3, wherein the vibrating element is disposed on a vibrating plane, wherein, when the aerosol-generating system is assembled, the vibrating plane is not perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the aerosolgenerating system, preferably wherein the vibrating plane is parallel to or includes the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating system, more preferably wherein the vibrating element is flat shaped, preferably disc shaped.

5. The aerosol-generating system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein, when the aerosol-generating system is assembled, the aerosol-generating system provides a liquid flow from the replaceable cartridge to the atomizer module in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating system.

6. The aerosol-generating system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein, when the aerosol-generating system is assembled, the main body is in direct contact with the atomizer module and with the replaceable mouthpiece.

7. The aerosol-generating system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein, when the aerosol-generating system is assembled, the replaceable cartridge is not in direct contact with the main body.

8. The aerosol-generating system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the replaceable cartridge is configured reversibly connectable to the atomizer module, preferably via at least one of a hinge mechanism, a sliders mechanism, a snap-fit mechanism, a bayonet mechanism, a magnetic mechanism, a spring actuated mechanism, or a push-push mechanism.

9. The aerosol-generating system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the replaceable mouthpiece comprises: a mouth-end portion comprising an aerosol outlet; an aerosol inlet; an aerosol channel extending between the aerosol inlet and the aerosol outlet; an air inlet, an air inlet channel extending between the air inlet and the aerosol channel; wherein a downstream portion of the air inlet channel is inclined with respect to the aerosol channel, preferably wherein the aerosol channel comprises a downstream portion and an upstream portion, and one turn between the upstream portion and the downstream portion, more preferably wherein the wall of ambient air is configured to reduce, preferably prevent, a direct contact of the aerosol flow with the turn.

10. The aerosol-generating system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the replaceable cartridge comprises a liquid storage portion configured for storing liquid aerosol-forming substrate.11 . The aerosol-generating system according to claim 10, wherein the replaceable cartridge comprises a fluid permeable element being in fluid communication with the liquid storage portion.

12. The aerosol-generating system according to any of claims 11 , wherein the fluid permeable element is arranged on a lateral side of the replaceable cartridge, preferably wherein a portion of the fluid permeable element is protruding from an outer surface of the replaceable cartridge.

13. The aerosol-generating system according to any of claims 10 to 12, wherein when the aerosol-generating system is assembled, there is a gap between the fluid permeable element and the vibrating element of claim 3, preferably wherein the gap is of between 0.01 millimeter to 0.5 millimeter, more preferably between 0.02 millimeter to 0.2 millimeter.

14. A method for assembling the aerosol-generating system according to any of the preceding claims, comprising reversibly connecting the atomizer module to the main body, reversibly connecting the replaceable mouthpiece to the atomizer module, reversibly connecting the replaceable cartridge to the atomizer module from a lateral side of the aerosol-generating system.

15. The method according to claim 14, wherein the replaceable mouthpiece is connected to the atomizer module by an insertion from a lateral side of the aerosol-generating system, followed by a sliding movement in a longitudinal direction towards the main body.

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