Aerosol-generating unit

Abstract

An aerosol-generating unit (100), an aerosol-generating component (1000) and an aerosol-generating apparatus comprising the same are disclosed. The aerosol-generating unit (1000) comprises a piezoelectric transducer (110) having an aerosolisation surface (111) and an elongate wick (120) for supplying liquid aerosol precursor to the aerosolisation surface (111).

Description

[0001] 008605172

[0002] 1

[0003] AEROSOL-GENERATING UNIT

[0004] FIELD

[0005] The present disclosure relates to an aerosol-generating unit, an aerosol-generating component and an aerosol-generating apparatus.

[0006] BACKGROUND

[0007] A typical aerosol-generating apparatus may comprise an aerosol-generating unit, a device including a power supply for powering the aerosol-generating unit, and an aerosol precursor which, in use, is aerosolised by the aerosol-generating unit to generate an aerosol.

[0008] In some cases, the aerosol-generating unit may include an ultrasonic generator e.g. a piezoelectric transducer (PET) for generating the aerosol. In use, an aerosolisation surface of the PET will expand and contract as it vibrates.

[0009] A PET generates aerosol by causing cavitation to occur within a liquid aerosol precursor that is provided on the aerosolisation surface of the PET. Cavitation refers to the phenomenon where the static pressure of a liquid reduces to below the liquid’s vapour pressure, leading to the formation of small vapour filled cavities within the liquid. When the cavities are subsequently subjected to a higher pressure, the cavities collapse resulting in a shock wave that propagates through the liquid. This shock wave induces capillary waves, or ripples, in a surface distal from the PET (referred to herein as the distal surface of the liquid) that may form ligaments to expel droplets from the distal surface. More succinctly, in a thin layer of liquid, the collapsing of the cavities can induce a disturbance in the liquid that causes liquid droplets to be expelled from liquid, thereby forming an aerosol over the distal surface of the liquid, typically within an aerosolisation chamber. Cavitation and thus aerosol generation is optimal at the geometric centre of the aerosolisation surface.

[0010] In an aerosol-generating unit including a PET, a liquid aerosol precursor is typically applied to the PET surface using a planar wick in fluid communication with a tank. Good contact between the wick and aerosolisation surface of the PET is essential to maximise aerosolisation and thus a spring is often provided to urge the wick into contact with the PET. The aerosol generated by cavitation of the liquid aerosol precursor will be drawn from an aerosolisation chamber along an aerosol flow path by suction at an air outlet.

[0011] Aerosol-generating apparatuses that use a PET for generating an aerosol present numerous challenges in terms of structural and positional relationships between the tank, wick, aerosolisation chamber and aerosol flow path.

[0012] In spite of the effort already invested in the development of aerosol-generating apparatuses, further improvements are desirable.

[0013] P01675 008605172

[0014] 2

[0015] SUMMARY

[0016] In a first aspect, the present disclosure provides an aerosol-generating unit comprising: a piezoelectric transducer having an aerosolisation surface; and an elongate wick for supplying liquid aerosol precursor to the aerosolisation surface; wherein a first axial end of the elongate wick abuts the aerosolisation surface.

[0017] Typically, it is known to provide a planar wick that overlies the aerosolisation surface of the piezoelectric transducer (PET) to deliver liquid aerosol precursor for aerosolisation. However, such a planar wick delivers the precursor across the entirety of the aerosolisation surface rather than providing targeted delivery to a desired region e.g. to the geometric centre of the aerosolisation surface where maximum expansion / contraction of the PET occurs and thus where maximum aerosol generation can be effected. Thus, the present invention aims to address this problem by using an elongate wick having an axial end that contacts the aerosolisation surface to provide more targeted delivery of liquid aerosol precursor. In this way, aerosol generation can be facilitated by delivering liquid aerosol precursor to areas of the aerosolisation surface that result in maximum aerosol generation (e.g. the geometric centre). Furthermore, the abutment of an axial end of the elongate wick facilitates better contact between the wick and the aerosolisation surface to effect improved aerosolisation.

[0018] Optional features will now be set out. These are applicable singly or in combination with any aspect.

[0019] The aerosolisation surface of the PET may be planar. The PET may include a rear surface (e.g. a planar rear surface) opposing the aerosolisation surface (e.g. the piezoelectric transducer may be a cylindrical disc). In this way, manufacture and airflow across the aerosolisation surface may be facilitated. Abutment of the elongate wick against the aerosolisation surface may also be facilitated. The aerosolisation and rear surfaces may be axially spaced by a PET perimeter wall (i.e. by a PET perimeter wall that extends perpendicularly to the aerosolisation and rear surfaces). The PET may have a circular transverse cross-section i.e. transverse to the axis between the aerosolisation and rear surfaces and transverse to the extension of the perimeter wall. The aerosol-generating unit may include an aerosolisation chamber. The PET may be located within the aerosolisation chamber. For example, the aerosolisation surface of the PET may face into the aerosolisation chamber.

[0020] The elongate wick has a wick axis extending from the first axial end of the elongate wick to an opposing second axial end. The wick axis may be substantially perpendicular to the aerosolisation surface (e.g. the planar aerosolisation surface) of the PET.

[0021] The elongate wick may be urged into abutment with the aerosolisation surface (i.e. biased towards the aerosolisation surface) via a biasing element (e.g. a spring). In this way, abutment between the elongate wick and the aerosolisation surface may be better maintained thereby facilitating more consistent delivery of liquid aerosol precursor to the aerosolisation surface of the PET. The biasing element may

[0022] P01675 008605172

[0023] 3 engage the elongate wick at the second axial end (e.g. on a second axial end surface). Thus, the biasing element may apply an axial force to the elongate wick (e.g. parallel to e.g. coaxially with the wick axis).

[0024] The elongate wick may have an elliptic (e.g. circular) transverse cross-section (e.g. perpendicular to the wick axis). Thus, the elongate wick may be a (cylindrical) rod (e.g. rod-shaped). The elongate wick may be substantially solid (e.g. include no substantial recesses and / or cavities).

[0025] The first axial end of the elongate wick has a first axial end surface in abutment with the aerosolisation surface. The first axial end surface may be substantially planar. The first axial end surface may be in a plane extending substantially perpendicularly to the wick axis.

[0026] The elongate wick may be tapered inwardly towards the first axial end surface (e.g. a transverse cross- sectional area of the elongate wick (i.e. perpendicular to the wick axis) may reduce towards the first axial end surface). Accordingly, the first axial end of the elongate wick which may be frustoconical. In this way, accuracy of liquid aerosol precursor delivery and airflow across the aerosolisation surface may be improved.

[0027] The elongate wick may effect wicking of liquid precursor through capillary action. Accordingly, the elongate wick may be fibrous and / or porous. For example, it may be formed of a fibrous wicking material such as cotton or felt. In other examples, it may be formed of a porous ceramic material.

[0028] The aerosol-generating unit may further comprise a tank for storing liquid aerosol precursor (e.g. for delivery to the aerosolisation surface via the elongate wick). Thus, the tank may be in fluid communication with the elongate wick. In this way, the aerosol-generating unit may continue to generate aerosol over a longer time period. The tank may at least partly circumscribe a portion of the elongate wick (e.g. it may circumscribe the second axial end of the elongate wick). The elongate wick may be at least partly located within the tank (e.g. the second axial end of the elongate wick may be located within the tank). The first axial end of the elongate wick may extend from within the tank into the aerosolisation chamber.

[0029] The tank may be defined by a tank housing. The tank housing may comprise an engagement element for supporting the elongate wick within the tank. The engagement element may be engaged with at least a portion of the elongate wick (e.g. with the second axial end of the elongate wick). The engagement element may comprise a seat (e.g. a ring or an elongate tube) which may depend from an upper wall of the tank housing. A radially inner surface of the ring / tube may conform to an outer surface of the second axial end of the elongate wick. Thus, the ring / tube may have an elliptic (e.g. circular) transverse cross-section (i.e. perpendicular to the wick axis). The wick may be axially slidable within the engagement element (e.g. within the ring / tube). The biasing element (e.g. spring) may be located within the engagement element to engage the elongate wick. For example, the biasing element may be

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[0031] 4 within the ring / tube (e.g. interposed between the upper wall of the tank housing and the second axial end surface of the elongate wick).

[0032] The tank housing may have side walls depending downwardly from the upper wall. The base of the tank (at the opposed axial end of the tank to the upper wall) may be sealed by a sealing element. Thus, the tank housing and sealing element may define an interior volume of the tank. The tank housing and sealing element may each comprise mutual engagement features (e.g. groove(s) and / or (corresponding) protrusion(s)) to retain the sealing element within the tank housing. The mutual engagement features may interlock. In this way, the sealing element may better seal the tank housing. The sealing element may comprise a deformable material (e.g. silicone). The lower surface of the sealing element (i.e. the surface facing away from the tank interior) may partly define the aerosolisation chamber.

[0033] In other examples, the tank housing may include a base wall that seals the tank. In these examples, the interior volume of the tank will be defined by the upper wall, the side walls and the base wall. Thus, the upper wall, the sides walls and the base wall may be integrally formed.

[0034] The engagement element and the tank housing may be integrally formed (i.e. the engagement element may be integrally formed with the upper wall of the tank housing). The engagement element may include one or more openings (e.g. to supply liquid aerosol precursor to the elongate wick). The openings may expose the interior volume of the tank to the wick within the engagement element (e.g. such that liquid aerosol precursor can flow into the elongate wick). The size and / or shape of the openings may varied to control the flow of liquid aerosol precursor therethrough. When a plurality of openings are present, these may be aligned (e.g. in one or more rows) with a longitudinal axis of the elongate wick. When the engagement element is tubular, the openings (e.g. rows of openings) may be circumferentially spaced (e.g. equally circumferentially spaced) around the tubular engagement element.

[0035] The elongate wick may pass through the sealing element or base wall of the tank (e.g. the sealing element or base wall may comprise a through-hole circumscribing (a portion of) the elongate wick). An inner surface of the through-hole may conform to an outer surface of the elongate wick (e.g. the through- hole may be circular). Thus, the elongate wick may seal the through-hole to prevent egress of liquid aerosol precursor other than through the wick.

[0036] The PET may comprise a first and second electrode contact portion. The first electrode contact portion may be provided on the rear surface of the PET i.e. it may be a base electrode contact portion. The second electrode contact portion may be provided on the perimeter of the aerosolisation surface of the PET and / or on the perimeter wall of the PET i.e. it may be a top / side electrode portion.

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[0038] 5

[0039] The aerosol-generating unit may comprise a base electrode for contacting the first / base electrode contact portion. The base electrode may be a sprung electrode e.g. may comprise a coiled spring or leaf spring electrode.

[0040] The aerosol-generating unit may comprise a top / side electrode for contacting the second / top / side electrode contact portion.

[0041] The aerosol-generating unit may comprise a piezoelectric transducer assembly comprising the PET. The PET may be partly encapsulated within a transducer housing. The base electrode e.g. the sprung base electrode may be housed within the transducer housing.

[0042] At least a portion of the transducer housing may be electrically conductive (e.g. a portion of the transducer housing adjacent the PET perimeter wall may be electrically conductive. Thus, the conductive portion of the housing may provide the top / side electrode for contacting the second / top / side electrode contact portion of the PET. The transducer housing may comprise an opening through which the aerosolisation surface of the PET is exposed.

[0043] In a second aspect, the present disclosure provides an aerosol-generating component (e.g. a smoking substitute component) comprising an aerosol-generating unit according to the first aspect.

[0044] The aerosol-generating component may comprise an airflow path that extends from at least one air inlet to at least one air outlet. Thus, a user may draw air into the air inlet(s) and along the airflow path by inhaling at the air outlet(s). The aerosol-generating component may further comprise a mouthpiece (e.g. the air outlet(s) may be located through the mouthpiece). Thus, a user may inhale on the mouthpiece to draw air along the airflow path. The airflow path may pass through the aerosolisation chamber adjacent the piezoelectric transducer. Thus, liquid aerosol precursor aerosolised by the piezoelectric generator forms an aerosol in the aerosolisation chamber.

[0045] The aerosol-generating component may further comprise an outer housing. The outer housing may house the aerosol-generating unit. The mouthpiece and the outer housing may be integrally formed. The outer housing has side walls that circumscribe the tank housing (i.e. circumscribe the side walls of the tank housing).

[0046] The aerosol-generating component may further comprise a base portion. The base portion may engage with the outer housing to retain the other constituent parts of the aerosol-generating component within the housing. The base portion may be retained within the outer housing via a friction fit. The air inlet(s) may be provided in an external surface of the base portion. An inner surface of the base portion may partly define the aerosolisation chamber. Thus the aerosolisation chamber may be defined by the inner surface of the base portion and the lower surface of the sealing element. The PET is supported within the aerosolisation chamber e.g. supported on the base portion.

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[0048] 6

[0049] The airflow path is in fluid communication with the aerosolisation chamber. The airflow path may comprise an upstream portion extending from the air inlet(s) to the aerosolisation chamber. The upstream portion of the airflow path may extend from the air inlet in the external surface of the base portion to the aerosolisation chamber through the base portion. A downstream portion of the airflow path may pass from the aerosolisation chamber to the air outlet(s) (e.g. to the mouthpiece). The downstream portion of the airflow path may pass between the outer housing and the tank housing of the tank.

[0050] The upstream portion and downstream portion of the airflow path may be joined by an intermediate portion extending through the aerosolisation chamber (e.g. across the aerosolisation surface of the piezoelectric transducer).

[0051] References to “downstream” in relation to the airflow path are intended to refer to the direction towards the air outlet(s). Conversely, references to “upstream” are intended to refer to the direction towards the air inlet(s). Thus, the air inlet(s) is / are upstream of the air outlet(s).

[0052] In some examples, the aerosol-generating component is configured to aerosolise a first liquid aerosol precursor (e.g. comprising nicotine) and a second liquid aerosol precursor (e.g. comprising a flavourant). In these examples, the aerosol-generating unit is a first aerosol-generating unit (e.g. to aerosolise the first liquid aerosol precursor) and the aerosol-generating component further comprises a second aerosol-generating unit according to the first aspect (e.g. to aerosolise the second liquid aerosol precursor). Thus, the second aerosol-generating unit and the first aerosol-generating unit may include corresponding features - herein appended with “first” and “second” accordingly.

[0053] The first aerosol-generating unit may be laterally adjacent the second aerosol-generating unit. For example, the first and second aerosol-generating units may be laterally opposed across a component axis extending between the base portion and mouthpiece portion. Thus, the first tank (i.e. of the first aerosol-generating unit) may be laterally adjacent the second tank (i.e. of the second aerosolgenerating unit). The wick axis of the first elongate wick may be parallel to the wick axis of the second elongate wick. The aerosolisation surface of the first PET may be aligned in the same plane as the aerosolisation surface of the second PET. Thus, the first aerosolisation chamber may be laterally adjacent the second aerosolisation chamber.

[0054] The airflow path may be in fluid communication with both the first and second aerosolisation chambers. The upstream portion of the airflow path may extend from the air inlet(s) to the first aerosolisation chamber and / or second aerosolisation chamber. The upstream portion of the airflow path may extend from the external surface of the base portion to the first aerosolisation chamber and / or second aerosolisation chamber through the base portion.

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[0056] 7

[0057] A downstream portion of the airflow path may pass from the first and / or second aerosolisation chamber to the air outlet(s) (e.g. to the mouthpiece).

[0058] The upstream portion and downstream portion of the airflow path may be joined by an intermediate portion extending through both the first and second aerosolisation chambers (e.g. across the aerosolisation surfaces of the first and second PETs).

[0059] In a third aspect, the present disclosure provides an aerosol-generating apparatus comprising: an aerosol-generating unit according to the first aspect or an aerosol-generating component according to the second aspect; and a device comprising a power supply for powering the aerosol-generating unit(s).

[0060] The aerosol-generating component may be a consumable component for engagement with the device to form the aerosol-generating apparatus. The device may be configured to receive the consumable component. Thus, the device and the consumable component may be configured to be physically coupled together. For example, the consumable component may be at least partially received in a recess of the device, such that there is snap engagement between the device and the consumable component. Alternatively, the device and the consumable component may be physically coupled together by screwing one onto the other, or through a bayonet fitting.

[0061] Thus, the consumable component may comprise one or more engagement portions for engaging with the device. The device and consumable component may be coupled together by magnetic attraction. For example, the device / component may comprise at least one magnet whilst the component / device may comprise a magnet or ferrous metal plate / portion.

[0062] In other examples, the aerosol-generating component may be integrally formed with the device to form the aerosol-generating apparatus. In such examples, the liquid aerosol precursor (e.g. e-liquid) may be replenished by re-filling a tank that is integral with the device (rather than replacing the aerosolgenerating component). Access to the tank (for re-filling of the liquid aerosol precursor) may be provided via e.g. an opening to the tank that is sealable with a closure (e.g. a cap).

[0063] The aerosol-generating component may comprise an electrical interface for interfacing with a corresponding electrical interface of the device. One or both of the electrical interfaces may include one or more electrical contacts. Thus, when the device is engaged with the aerosol-generating component, the electrical interface may be configured to transfer electrical power from the power source to the PET of the aerosol-generating unit.

[0064] The electrical contacts of the component may be provided on the lower surface of the base portion. A first contact (e.g. on the base portion) may be electrically connected to the first transducer electrode. A

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[0066] 8 second contact (e.g. on the base portion) may be electrically connected to the second transducer electrode.

[0067] The electrical interface may also be used to identify the component from a list of known types. The electrical interface may additionally or alternatively be used to identify when the component is connected to the device.

[0068] The device may alternatively or additionally be able to detect information about the component via an RFID reader, a barcode or QR code reader. This interface may be able to identify a characteristic (e.g. a type) of the component. In this respect, the component may include any one or more of an RFID chip, a barcode or QR code, or memory within which is an identifier and which can be interrogated via the interface.

[0069] Further features of the device are described below. These are applicable to both the device for receiving the aerosol-generating component and to the device integral with the aerosol-generating component. The device may comprise a power source e.g. a rechargeable battery. The device may comprise a controller. A memory may be provided and may be operatively connected to the controller. The memory may include non-volatile memory. The memory may include instructions which, when implemented, cause the controller to perform certain tasks or steps of a method.

[0070] The device may comprise a wireless interface, which may be configured to communicate wirelessly with another device, for example a mobile device, e.g. via Bluetooth®. To this end, the wireless interface could include a Bluetooth® antenna. Other wireless communication interfaces, e.g. WiFi®, are also possible. The wireless interface may also be configured to communicate wirelessly with a remote server.

[0071] An airflow (i.e. puff) sensor may be provided that is configured to detect a puff (i.e. inhalation from a user). The airflow sensor may be operatively connected to the controller so as to be able to provide a signal to the controller that is indicative of a puff state (i.e. puffing or not puffing). The airflow sensor may, for example, be in the form of a pressure sensor or an acoustic sensor. The controller may control power supply to the PET in response to airflow detection by the sensor. The control may be in the form of activation of the PET in response to a detected airflow. The airflow sensor may form part of the device.

[0072] In some examples, the aerosol-generating apparatus is configured to aerosolise a first liquid aerosol precursor (e.g. comprising nicotine) and a second liquid aerosol precursor (e.g. comprising a flavourant). In these examples, the aerosol-generating component is a first aerosol-generating component (e.g. to aerosolise the first liquid aerosol precursor) and the aerosol-generating apparatus may further comprise a second aerosol-generating component according to the second aspect (e.g. to

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[0074] 9 aerosolise the second liquid aerosol precursor). Thus, the first aerosol-generating component and the second aerosol-generating component may include corresponding features.

[0075] The invention includes the combination of the aspects and preferred features described except where such a combination is clearly impermissible or expressly avoided.

[0076] The preceding summary is provided for purposes of summarizing some examples to provide a basic understanding of aspects of the subject matter described herein. Accordingly, the above-described features should not be construed to narrow the scope or spirit of the subject matter described herein in any way. Moreover, the above and / or proceeding examples may be combined in any suitable combination to provide further examples, except where such a combination is clearly impermissible or expressly avoided. Other features, aspects, and advantages of the subject matter described herein will become apparent from the following text and the accompanying drawings.

[0077] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0078] Aspects, features and advantages of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following description of examples in reference to the appended drawings in which like numerals denote like elements.

[0079] Fig. 1 is a block system diagram showing an example aerosol-generating apparatus;

[0080] Fig. 2 is a block system diagram showing an example implementation of the apparatus of Fig. 1 , where the aerosol-generating apparatus is configured to generate aerosol from a liquid precursor;

[0081] Figs. 3A and 3B are schematic diagrams showing an example implementation of the apparatus of Fig. 2;

[0082] Fig. 4 is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol-generating component 1000 according to the first aspect including one piezoelectric transducer;

[0083] Fig. 5 is a perspective view of the aerosol-generating component of Fig. 4;

[0084] Fig. 6 is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol-generating component 2000 according to the first aspect including two piezoelectric transducers; and

[0085] Fig. 7 is a perspective view of the aerosol-generating component 2000 of Fig. 6.

[0086] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0087] Before describing several examples implementing the present disclosure, it is to be understood that the present disclosure is not limited by specific construction details or process steps set forth in the following

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[0089] 10 description and accompanying drawings. Rather, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art having the benefit of the present disclosure that the systems, apparatuses and / or methods described herein could be embodied differently and / or be practiced or carried out in various alternative ways.

[0090] Unless otherwise defined herein, scientific and technical terms used in connection with the presently disclosed inventive concept(s) shall have the meanings that are commonly understood by those of ordinary skill in the art, and known techniques and procedures may be performed according to conventional methods well known in the art and as described in various general and more specific references that may be cited and discussed in the present specification.

[0091] Any patents, published patent applications, and non-patent publications mentioned in the specification are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

[0092] All examples implementing the present disclosure can be made and executed without undue experimentation in light of the present disclosure. While particular examples have been described, it will be apparent to those of skill in the art that variations may be applied to the systems, apparatus, and / or methods and in the steps or in the sequence of steps of the methods described herein without departing from the concept, spirit, and scope of the inventive concept(s). All such similar substitutions and modifications apparent to those skilled in the art are deemed to be within the spirit, scope, and concept of the inventive concept(s) as defined by the appended claims.

[0093] The use of the term “a” or “an” in the claims and / or the specification may mean “one,” as well as “one or more,” “at least one,” and “one or more than one.” As such, the terms “a,” “an,” and “the,” as well as all singular terms, include plural referents unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Likewise, plural terms shall include the singular unless otherwise required by context.

[0094] The use of the term “or” in the present disclosure (including the claims) is used to mean an inclusive “and / or” unless explicitly indicated to refer to alternatives only or unless the alternatives are mutually exclusive. For example, a condition “A or B” is satisfied by any of the following: A is true (or present) and B is false (or not present), A is false (or not present) and B is true (or present), and both A and B are true (or present).

[0095] As used in this specification and claim(s), the words “comprising, “having,” “including,” or “containing” (and any forms thereof, such as “comprise” and “comprises,” “have” and “has,” “includes” and “include,” or “contains” and “contain,” respectively) are inclusive or open-ended and do not exclude additional, unrecited elements or method steps.

[0096] Unless otherwise explicitly stated as incompatible, or the physics or otherwise of the embodiments, examples, or claims prevent such a combination, the features of examples disclosed herein, and of the claims, may be integrated together in any suitable arrangement, especially ones where there is a 008605172

[0097] 11 beneficial effect in doing so. This is not limited to only any specified benefit, and instead may arise from an “ex post facto” benefit. This is to say that the combination of features is not limited by the described forms, particularly the form (e.g. numbering) of example(s), embodiment(s), or dependency of claim(s). Moreover, this also applies to the phrase “in one embodiment,” “according to an embodiment,” and the like, which are merely a stylistic form of wording and are not to be construed as limiting the following features to a separate embodiment to all other instances of the same or similar wording. This is to say, a reference to ‘an,’ ‘one,’ or ‘some’ embodiment(s) may be a reference to any one or more, and / or all embodiments, or combination(s) thereof, disclosed. Also, similarly, the reference to “the” embodiment may not be limited to the immediately preceding embodiment. Further, all references to one or more embodiments or examples are to be construed as non-limiting to the claims.

[0098] The present disclosure may be better understood in view of the following explanations, wherein the terms used that are separated by “or” may be used interchangeably:

[0099] As used herein, an "aerosol generating apparatus" (or “electronic(e)-cigarette”) may be an apparatus configured to deliver an aerosol to a user for inhalation by the user. The apparatus may additionally / alternatively be referred to as a “smoking substitute apparatus”, if it is intended to be used instead of a conventional combustible smoking article. As used herein a combustible “smoking article” may refer to a cigarette, cigar, pipe or other article, that produces smoke (an aerosol comprising solid particulates and gas) via heating above the thermal decomposition temperature (typically by combustion and / or pyrolysis).

[0100] As used herein, an "aerosol generating component" may refer to a component that includes an aerosol precursor. The component may include an aerosol generating unit e.g. it may be arranged as a cartomizer. The component may include a mouthpiece. The component may include an information carrying medium. The component may include a storage portion, e.g. a reservoir or tank, for storage of the aerosol precursor.

[0101] With liquid or gel implementations of the aerosol precursor, e.g. an e-liquid, the component may be referred to as a “capsule” or a “pod” or an “e-liquid consumable”. In some embodiments, the aerosol precursor component may be affixed to the device body to form the aerosol generating apparatus. In these embodiments, the reservoir / tank may be refillable.

[0102] The aerosol generating component e.g. the capsule, pod, or consumable may be for releasable coupling to a device body to form the aerosol generating apparatus.

[0103] The device body may comprise a power supply for powering the aerosol generating unit.

[0104] An aerosol generated by the apparatus may comprise an aerosol with particle sizes of 0.2 - 7 microns, or less than 10 microns, or less than 7 microns. This particle size may be achieved by control of one or

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[0106] 12 more of: driving parameters of the PET; cooling rate as the vapour condenses to an aerosol; flow properties including turbulence and velocity. The generation of aerosol by the aerosol generating apparatus may be controlled by an input device. The input device may be configured to be user- activated, and may for example include or take the form of an actuator (e.g. actuation button) and / or an airflow sensor.

[0107] Each occurrence of the aerosol generating apparatus being caused to generate aerosol for a period of time (which may be variable) may be referred to as an “activation” of the aerosol generating apparatus. The aerosol generating apparatus may be arranged to allow an amount of aerosol delivered to a user to be varied per activation (as opposed to delivering a fixed dose of aerosol), e.g. by activating an aerosol generating unit of the apparatus for a variable amount of time, e.g. based on the strength / duration of a draw of a user through a flow path of the apparatus (to replicate an effect of smoking a conventional combustible smoking article).

[0108] The aerosol generating apparatus may be portable. As used herein, the term "portable" may refer to the apparatus being for use when held by a user.

[0109] The aerosol generating apparatus may form part of an aerosol generating system. As used herein, an "aerosol generating system" may be a system that includes an aerosol generating apparatus and optionally other circuitry / components associated with the function of the apparatus, e.g. one or more external devices and / or one or more external components (here “external” is intended to mean external to the aerosol generating apparatus). As used herein, an “external device” and “external component” may include one or more of a: a charging device, a mobile device (which may be connected to the aerosol generating apparatus, e.g. via a wireless or wired connection); a networked-based computer (e.g. a remote server); a cloud-based computer; any other server system.

[0110] An example aerosol generating system may be a system for managing an aerosol generating apparatus. Such a system may include, for example, a mobile device, a network server, as well as the aerosol generating apparatus.

[0111] As used herein, an "aerosol" may include a suspension of liquid droplets of precursor. An aerosol may include one or more components of the precursor.

[0112] As used herein, a “precursor” may a liquid or gel precursor. The precursor may be processed by an aerosol generating unit of an aerosol generating apparatus e.g. of an aerosol generating component to generate an aerosol. The precursor may include one or more of: an active component; a carrier; a flavouring. The active component may include one or more of nicotine; caffeine; a cannabidiol oil; a non-pharmaceutical formulation, e.g. a formulation which is not for treatment of a disease or physiological malfunction of the human body. The active component may be carried by the carrier, which may be a liquid, including propylene glycol and / or glycerine. The term “flavouring” may refer to a

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[0114] 13 component that provides a taste and / or a smell to the user. The flavouring may include one or more of: Ethylvanillin (vanilla); menthol, Isoamyl acetate (banana oil); or other

[0115] As used herein, a "flow path" may refer to a path or enclosed passageway through an aerosol generating apparatus, e.g. for delivery of an aerosol to a user. The flow path may be arranged to receive aerosol from an aerosol generating unit. When referring to the flow path, upstream and downstream may be defined in respect of a direction of flow in the flow path, e.g. with an outlet being downstream of an inlet. The flow path may be within the aerosol generating component.

[0116] As used herein, a "delivery system" may be a system operative to deliver an aerosol to a user. The delivery system may include a mouthpiece and a flow path. The delivery system may be within the aerosol generating component.

[0117] As used herein, a "flow" may refer to a flow in a flow path. A flow may include aerosol generated from the precursor. The flow may include air, which may be induced into the flow path (e.g. via an air inlet) via a puff by a user.

[0118] As used herein, a “puff’ (or "inhale" or “draw”) by a user may refer to expansion of lungs and / or oral cavity of a user to create a pressure reduction that induces flow through the flow path.

[0119] As used herein, an "aerosol generating unit" may refer to a device configured to generate an aerosol from a precursor. The aerosol generating unit may include a unit to generate an aerosol directly from the precursor (e.g. an atomiser including an ultrasonic generator). A plurality of aerosol generating units to generate a plurality of aerosols (for example, from a plurality of different aerosol precursors) may be present in an aerosol generating apparatus.

[0120] As used herein, an “ultrasonic generator” may refer to a piezoelectric transducer capable of vibrating at ultrasonic frequencies, i.e., at frequencies greater than 20kHz. In some examples, the piezoelectric transducer may be capable of vibrating at even higher frequencies, e.g., at frequencies of 100 kHz or above, 500 kHz or above, 1 MHz or more, 2 MHz or more, 5 MHz or more, or 10 MHz or more. The piezoelectric transducer may be adapted to vibrate in response to a driving signal, and in particular adapted to vibrate at the frequency of the driving signal.

[0121] As used herein, a “piezoelectric transducer” may refer to an ultrasonic transducer comprising a piezoelectric crystal, which generates a mechanical strain internally in response to an electric field. A rapidly changing electric field, such as an ultrasonic frequency driving signal, results in rapidly changing mechanical strain within the piezoelectric crystal causing it to vibrate. The piezoelectric transducer will have an aerosolisation surface from which the aerosol is generated. The aerosolisation surface typically faces into the aerosolisation chamber.

[0122] P01675 008605172

[0123] 14

[0124] In some examples, the piezoelectric transducer may comprise a piezoelectric element coupled to a perforated membrane (e.g. a mesh). The piezoelectric element may circumscribe the perforated membrane (e.g. the piezoelectric element may be annular). The perforated membrane may be configured to generate an aerosol upon vibration of the piezoelectric element. Thus, the piezoelectric element may be configured to vibrate the perforated membrane (e.g. upon application of a driving signal to the piezoelectric element via electrodes) such that liquid precursor is forced through the perforated membrane to generate an aerosol. Herein, an aerosolisation surface of the piezoelectric transducer may be understood to be an aerosolisation surface of the perforated membrane from which aerosol is generated. Thus, liquid precursor may be supplied to a surface of the perforated membrane opposite to the aerosolisation surface of the perforated membrane.

[0125] As used herein, an "information carrying medium" may include one or more arrangements for storage of information on any suitable medium. Examples include: a computer readable medium; a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) transponder; codes encoding information, such as optical (e.g. a bar code or QR code) or mechanically read codes (e.g. a configuration of the absence or presents of cutouts to encode a bit, through which pins or a reader may be inserted).

[0126] Referring to Fig. 1 , an example aerosol generating apparatus 1 includes a power supply 2, for supply of electrical energy. The apparatus 1 includes an aerosol generating unit 4 that is driven by the power supply 2. The power supply 2 may include an electric power supply in the form of a battery and / or an electrical connection to an external power source. The apparatus 1 includes a precursor s, which in use is aerosolised by the aerosol generating unit 4 to generate an aerosol. The aerosol generating unit 4 includes a piezoelectric transducer (discussed below) configured to induce, by vibration of the piezoelectric transducer i.e. by vibration of the aerosolisation surface of the piezoelectric transducer, cavitation in the precursor s. Collapse of the cavities in the precursor s induces a shock that propagates through the liquid precursor 6. This shock disturbs a surface of the liquid precursor 6 that interfaces with air within an aerosolisation chamber of the aerosol generating apparatus 1 (which, in turn is in fluid communication with an airflow path through the aerosol generating apparatus). These disturbances take the form of ripples, also known as capillary waves, that form ligaments at the peaks of the ripples / waves, pinch off and expel droplets from the liquid precursor 6 into the airflow path, thereby aerosolising the precursor 6 to generate the aerosol. The apparatus 2 includes a delivery system 8 for delivery of the aerosol to a user.

[0127] Electrical circuitry (not shown in figure 1) may be implemented to control the interoperability of the power supply 2 and aerosol generating unit 4.

[0128] Fig. 2 shows an implementation of the apparatus 1 of Fig. 1 , where the aerosol generating apparatus 1 is configured to generate aerosol from a liquid precursor.

[0129] P01675 008605172

[0130] 15

[0131] In this example, the apparatus 1 includes a device body 10 and a component (aerosol generating component) 30.

[0132] In this example, the device body 10 includes the power supply 2. The device body 10 may additionally include any one or more of electrical circuitry 12, a memory 14, a wireless interface 16, one or more other components 18.

[0133] The electrical circuitry 12 may include a processing resource for controlling one or more operations of the device body 10 and component 30, e.g. based on instructions stored in the memory 14.

[0134] The wireless interface 16 may be configured to communicate wirelessly with an external (e.g. mobile) device, e.g. via Bluetooth.

[0135] The other component(s) 18 may include one or more user interface devices configured to convey information to a user and / or a charging port, for example (see e.g. Fig. 3).

[0136] The component 30 includes a storage portion implemented here as a tank 32 which stores the liquid precursor 6 (e.g. e liquid). The component 30 also includes one or more air inlets 36, and a mouthpiece 38. The component 30 may include one or more other components 40.

[0137] The device body 10 and component 30 may each include a respective electrical interface (not shown) to provide an electrical connection between one or more components of the device body 10 with one or more components of the component 30. In this way, electrical power can be supplied to components of the component 30, without the component 30 needing to have its own power supply.

[0138] The piezoelectric transducer 34 of the aerosol generating unit 4 is arranged to be in electrical contact with one or more components of the body 10. For example, the power supply 2 may be configured to provide power to the piezoelectric transducer 34. Additionally or alternatively, the piezoelectric transducer 34 may be in electrical contact / communication with one or more of the electrical circuitry 12, memory 14, wireless interface 16 or one or more of the one or more other components 18 e.g., to receive instructions to adjust an operating parameter of the piezoelectric transducer 34 and / or to transmit data indicative of the operational parameters of the piezoelectric transducer 34.

[0139] Moreover, the piezoelectric transducer 34 is arranged to be in fluid communication with the tank 32 e.g. via a wick such that the liquid precursor can be provided to the aerosolisation surface of the piezoelectric transducer 34.

[0140] In use, a user may activate the aerosol generating apparatus 1 when inhaling through the mouthpiece 38, i.e. when performing a puff. The puff, performed by the user, may initiate a flow through a flow path in the component 30 which extends from the air inlet(s) 36 to the mouthpiece 38 via a region (i.e. an aerosolisation chamber) in proximity to the piezoelectric transducer 34.

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[0142] 16

[0143] Activation of the aerosol generating apparatus 1 may be initiated, for example, by an airflow sensor in the body 10 which detects airflow in the aerosol generating apparatus 1 (e.g. caused by a user inhaling through the mouthpiece), or by actuation of an actuator included in the body 10. Upon activation, the electrical circuitry 12 (e.g. under control of the processing resource) may supply electrical energy from the power supply 2 to the piezoelectric transducer 34 of the aerosol generating unit 4, which may cause the piezoelectric transducer 34 to induce cavitation in the liquid precursor 6 drawn from the tank so as to produce an aerosol which is carried by the flow out of the mouthpiece 38.

[0144] In some examples, the component may include a wick, wherein a first portion of the wick extends into the tank 32 in order to draw liquid precursor 6 out from the tank 32 and wherein a second portion of the wick is arranged to convey the drawn liquid precursor 6 to the aerosolisation surface piezoelectric transducer 34 of the aerosol generating unit 4.

[0145] In this example, the delivery system 8 is provided by the above-described flow path and mouthpiece 38.

[0146] In variant embodiments (not shown), any one or more of the precursor 6, air inlet(s) 36 and mouthpiece 38, may be included in the body 10. For example, the mouthpiece 36 may be included in the body 10 with the precursor 6 arranged as a separable cartomizer.

[0147] Figs. 3A and 3B show an example implementation of the aerosol generating apparatus 1 of Fig. 2. In this example, the component 30 is implemented as a capsule / pod, which is shown in Fig. 3A as being physically coupled to the device body 10, and is shown in Fig. 3B as being decoupled from the device body 10.

[0148] In this example, the device body 10 and the component 30 are configured to be physically coupled together by pushing the component 30 into an aperture in a top end 1 1 the device body 10, with the component 30 being retained in the aperture via an interference fit.

[0149] In other examples (not shown), the device body 10 and the component 30 could be physically coupled together in other ways, e.g. by screwing one onto the other, through a bayonet fitting, or through a snap engagement mechanism, for example.

[0150] The device body 10 also includes a charging port (not shown) at a bottom end 13 of the device body 10.

[0151] The device body 10 also includes a user interface device configured to convey information to a user. Here, the user interface device is implemented as a light 15, which may e.g. be configured to illuminate when the apparatus 1 is activated. Other user interface devices are possible, e.g. to convey information haptically or audibly to a user. 008605172

[0152] 17

[0153] In this example, the component 30 has an opaque cap 31 , a translucent tank 32 and a translucent window 33. When the component 30 is physically coupled to the device body 10 as shown in Fig. 3A, only the cap 31 and window 33 can be seen, with the tank 32 being obscured from view by the device body 10. The device body 10 includes a slot 15 to accommodate the window 33. The window 33 is configured to allow the amount of liquid precursor 6 in the tank 32 to be visually assessed, even when the component 30 is physically coupled to the device body 10.

[0154] Referring to Figs. 4 and 5, an aerosol-generating component 1000, which may be implemented in any of the preceding examples, comprises an aerosol-generating unit 100. The aerosol-generating unit 100 comprises a piezoelectric transducer 110, an elongate wick 120 and a tank 140. The piezoelectric transducer 110 is a cylindrical disc such that it has a circular and planar aerosolisation surface 1 11 . A first planar axial end surface at a first axial end 121 of the elongate wick 120 abuts the geometric centre of the aerosolisation surface 111 such that the elongate wick 120 supplies liquid aerosol precursor to the geometric centre of the aerosolisation surface 11 1 to maximise aerosol generation.

[0155] The elongate wick 120 is urged into abutment with the geometric centre of the aerosolisation surface 111 via a biasing element in the form of a coil spring 130. The coil spring 130 engages a second planar axial end surface at a second axial end 122 of the elongate wick 120. The second axial end 122 is opposite the first axial end 121 . Thus, the coil spring 130 applies an axial force to the elongate wick 120 in a direction parallel to a wick axis 105 of the elongate wick 120. The wick axis 105 is perpendicular to the aerosolisation surface 11 1.

[0156] The elongate wick 120 has a circular cross-section in a direction perpendicular to the wick axis 105. Thus, the elongate wick 120 is a cylindrical rod. The first axial end 121 of the elongate wick 120 is tapered towards the first axial end surface such that a transverse cross-sectional area of the elongate wick 120 perpendicular to the wick axis 105 reduces towards the first axial end surface. In other words, the first axial end 121 is frustoconical.

[0157] The tank 140 is in fluid communication with the elongate wick 120 and configured to store liquid aerosol precursor. The tank 140 includes an engagement element in the form of an elongate tube 141 , a tank housing 142 and a sealing element 143. The tank housing 142 and sealing element 143 define an interior volume of the tank 140. The sealing element 143 is removeable from the tank housing 142 such that the sealing element 143 seals the tank housing 142 to prevent liquid aerosol precursor leaking out of the tank 140. The tank housing 142 and sealing element 143 comprise mutual engagement features in the form of a groove 144 on the tank housing 142 and a corresponding protrusion 145 on the sealing element 143 to facilitate retainment of the sealing element 143 to the tank housing 142. The sealing element 143 comprises a deformable material in the form of silicone.

[0158] The elongate tube 141 and the tank housing 142 are integrally formed such that the elongate tube 141 extends from an inner surface of the tank housing 142 distal the sealing element 143. A portion of the 008605172

[0159] 18 elongate wick 120 is located within the elongate tube 141 such that an inner surface of the elongate tube conforms to an outer surface of the elongate wick 120. Thus, the interior volume of the elongate tube 141 has a circular transverse cross-section perpendicularto the wick axis 105. The biasing element 130 is located at the closed axial end of the elongate tube to engage the second axial end 122 of the elongate wick 120.

[0160] There is a gap between an axial end of the elongate tube 141 and the sealing element 143 such that a circumferential surface of the elongate wick 120 is exposed to the interior volume of the tank 140 thereby allowing liquid aerosol precursor to flow into the elongate wick 120. Thus, a portion of the elongate wick 120 is located in the tank 140 such that an interior volume of the tank 140 circumscribes a portion of the elongate wick 120.

[0161] The elongate wick 120 is located through the sealing element 143. Thus, the sealing element 143 includes a circular through-hole for receiving the elongate wick 120 such that an inner surface of the through-hole conforms to an outer surface of the elongate wick 120 thereby preventing liquid aerosol precursor leaking out of the tank 140.

[0162] The aerosol-generating component 1000 also includes an outer housing 150 and a base portion 160 that is retained within the outer housing 150. The outer housing 150 houses the piezoelectric transducer 110, elongate wick 120, biasing element 130 and tank 140. A mouthpiece 151 through which a user can inhale aerosol generated by the piezoelectric transducer 110 is integrally formed with the outer housing 150. The base portion 160 engages with the outer housing 150 to retain the other parts of the aerosol-generating component 1000 within the outer housing 150. The air inlet 161 is located in an external surface of the base portion 160.

[0163] The aerosol-generating component 1000 comprises an airflow path that extends from the air inlet 161 in the base portion 160 to an air outlet 152 in the mouthpiece 151 . Thus, a user may draw air into the air inlet 161 and along the airflow path by inhaling though the air outlet 152 at the mouthpiece 151 . The airflow path passes through an aerosolisation chamber 112 of the piezoelectric transducer 110 that is adjacent the aerosolisation surface 111 of the piezoelectric transducer 110. Thus, liquid aerosol precursor aerosolised by the piezoelectric transducer 1 10 forms an aerosol in the aerosolisation chamber 112.

[0164] The airflow path is in fluid communication with the aerosolisation chamber 112. The airflow path comprises an upstream portion extending from the air inlet 161 to the aerosolisation chamber 112. The upstream portion of the airflow path extend from the external surface of the base portion 160 to the aerosolisation chamber 112 through the base portion 160. A downstream portion of the airflow path passes from the aerosolisation chamber 112 to the air outlet 152 in the mouthpiece 151 via a channel in between the tank housing 142 and outer housing 150. The upstream portion and downstream portion

[0165] P01675 008605172

[0166] 19 of the airflow path are joined by an intermediate portion extending through the aerosolisation chamber 112 and thus over the aerosolisation surface 111 of the piezoelectric transducer 1 10.

[0167] Referring to Fig. 4, the piezoelectric transducer 110 is part of a piezoelectric transducer assembly 160 also comprising a transducer housing 161 , a transducer biasing element in the form of a coiled spring 162, a first contact 163 and a second contact 164. The piezoelectric transducer 110 is encapsulated within the transducer housing 161 . The transducer housing 161 comprises an opening through which the aerosolisation surface 111 of the piezoelectric transducer 110 is exposed. The coiled spring 162 is electrically connected to the rear surface of the piezoelectric transducer 1 10 and functions as a first transducer electrode. The transducer housing 161 is electrically conductive and functions as a second transducer electrode connected to the aerosolisation surface 111 of the piezoelectric transducer. The first contact 163 is electrically connected to the transducer housing 161 and the second contact 164 is electrically connected to the coiled spring 162.

[0168] Referring to Figs. 6 and 7, an aerosol-generating component 2000, which may be implemented in any of the preceding examples, comprises a first aerosol-generating unit 200a and a second aerosolgenerating unit 200b. Each aerosol-generating unit 200a, 200b comprises a respective transducer assembly 201 a, 201 b as described with reference to Fig. 4 above. The aerosol-generating component 2000 includes a component axis 270 such that the first and second aerosol-generating units 200a, 200b are laterally opposed across the component axis 270.

[0169] The first aerosol-generating unit 200a comprises a first piezoelectric transducer 210a, a first elongate wick 220a and a first tank 240a. The second aerosol-generating unit 200b comprises a second piezoelectric transducer 210b, a second elongate wick 220b and a second tank 240b. Each piezoelectric transducer 210a, 210b is a cylindrical disc such that each has a circular and planar aerosolisation surface 211 a, 211 b. Each elongate wick 220a, 220b includes a first axial end 221 a, 221 b and each first axial end 221 a, 221 b includes a first planar axial end surface that abuts the geometric centre of the corresponding aerosolisation surface 211 a, 211 b. In this way, each elongate wick 220a, 220b supplies liquid aerosol precursor to the geometric centre of the corresponding aerosolisation surface 211 a, 211 b of each piezoelectric transducer 210a, 210b to maximise aerosol generation. Each piezoelectric transducer 210a, 210b is located within a respective aerosolisation chamber 212a, 212b.

[0170] Each elongate wick 220a, 220b has a circular transverse cross-section in a direction perpendicular to a corresponding wick axis 205a, 205b of each elongate wick 220a, 220b. Thus, each elongate wick 220a, 220b is a cylindrical rod. The first axial end 221 a, 221 b of each elongate wick 220a, 220b is tapered towards the respective first axial end surface such that a cross-sectional area of each elongate wick 220a, 220b perpendicular to the respective wick axis 205a, 205b reduces towards the respective first planar axial end surface. In other words, the first axial end 221 a, 221 b of each elongate wick 220a,

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[0173] 220b is frustoconical. Each wick axis 205a, 205b is perpendicular to the respective aerosolisation surface 211 a, 211 b.

[0174] Each tank 240a, 240b is in fluid communication with the respective elongate wick 220a, 220b and configured to store liquid aerosol precursor. Each tank 240a, 240b includes a respective tank housing 242a, 242b and a respective engagement element in the form of a respective elongate tube 241 a, 241 a. Each tank housing 242a, 243b and the corresponding elongate tube 241 a, 241 b define an interior volume of the respective tank 240a, 240b. Each tank housing 242a, 242b includes an upper wall, side walls and a base wall. The walls of each tank housing 242a, 242b are integrally formed.

[0175] Each elongate tube 241 a, 241 b and corresponding tank housing 242a, 242b are integrally formed such that each elongate tube 241 a, 241 b extends from an inner surface of the base wall of the corresponding tank housing 242a, 242b. A portion of each elongate wick 220a, 220b is located within the corresponding elongate tube 241 a, 241 b such that an inner surface of each elongate tube 241 a, 241 b conforms to an outer surface of the corresponding elongate wick 220a, 220b. Thus, the interior volume of each elongate tube 241 a, 241 b has a circular transverse cross-section perpendicular to the respective wick axis 205a, 205b.

[0176] Each elongate tube 241 a, 241 b includes a plurality of openings 246a, 246b to supply liquid aerosol precursor to the respective elongate wick 220a, 220b. The size and shape of the openings 246a, 246b are selected to control the flow of liquid aerosol precursor therethrough. Each row of the plurality of openings 246a, 246b are aligned with the respective wick axis 205a, 205b of each elongate wick 220a, 220b. Although not visible in Fig. 7, each plurality of openings 246a, 246b includes several rows of three openings with the respective row being evenly distributed circumferentially about the corresponding elongate tube 241 a, 241 b.

[0177] The first aerosol-generating unit 200a is laterally adjacent the second aerosol-generating unit 200b such that the first tank housing 242a abuts the second tank housing 242b and the wick axes 205a, 205b are parallel. The first aerosolisation surface 211 a is aligned in the same plane as the second aerosolisation surface 211 b such that the aerosolisation surfaces 21 1 a, 21 1 b are coplanar.

[0178] The aerosol-generating component 2000 also includes an outer housing 250 and a base portion 260 that is retained within the outer housing 250. The outer housing 250 houses the piezoelectric transducers 210a, 210b, the elongate wicks 220a, 220b and the tanks 240a, 240b. A mouthpiece 251 through which a user can inhale aerosol generated by the piezoelectric transducers 210a, 210b is integrally formed with the outer housing 250. The base portion 260 engages with the outer housing 250 to retain the other components of the aerosol-generating component 2000 within the outer housing 250. An air inlet 261 is located in an external surface of the base portion 260.

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[0181] The aerosol-generating component 2000 comprises an airflow path that extends from the air inlet 261 in the base portion 260 to a plurality of air outlets 252 in the mouthpiece 251. Thus, a user may draw air into the air inlet 161 and along the airflow path by inhaling though the air outlet 152 at the mouthpiece 151. The airflow path passes through the first aerosolisation chamber 212a then through the second aerosolisation chamber 212b. Liquid aerosol precursor aerosolised by each piezoelectric transducer 210a, 210b forms an aerosol in the corresponding aerosolisation chamber 212a, 212b.

[0182] The airflow path is in fluid communication with each aerosolisation chamber 212a, 212b. The airflow path comprises an upstream portion extending from the air inlet 261 to the first aerosolisation chamber 212a. The upstream portion of the airflow path extend from the external surface of the base portion 260 to the first aerosolisation chamber 212a through the base portion 260. A downstream portion of the airflow path passes from the second aerosolisation chamber 212b to the air outlets 252 in the mouthpiece 251 via a channel in between the outer housing 250 and the tank housing 242a, 242b of each aerosol-generating unit. The upstream portion and downstream portion of the airflow path are joined by an intermediate portion extending through the first aerosolisation chamber 212a to the second aerosolisation chamber 212b and thus over the aerosolisation surface 211 a, 211 b of each piezoelectric transducer 210a, 210b.

[0183] P01675

Claims

00860517222CLAIMS1. An aerosol-generating unit (100) comprising: a piezoelectric transducer (110) having an aerosolisation surface (111); and an elongate wick (120) for supplying liquid aerosol precursor to the aerosolisation surface (111); wherein the aerosolisation surface (111) is planar and a first axial end (121) of the elongate wick (120) abuts the aerosolisation surface (111).

2. The aerosol-generating unit (100) of claim 1 , wherein the elongate wick (120) has a wick axis (105) perpendicular to the aerosolisation surface (111).

3. The aerosol-generating unit (100) of claim 1 or 2, wherein the elongate wick (120) has a first axial end surface at the first axial end (121) and the first axial end surface is substantially planar and parallel to the aerosolisation surface (111).

4. The aerosol-generating unit (100) of claim 3, wherein the elongate wick (120) is tapered towards the first axial end surface.

5. The aerosol-generating unit (100) of any preceding claim, wherein elongate wick (120) is urged into abutment with the aerosolisation surface (111) via a biasing element (130).

6. The aerosol-generating unit (100) of claim 5, wherein the biasing element (130) engages the elongate wick (120) at a second axial end (122) opposite the first axial end (121).

7. The aerosol-generating unit (100) of claim 6, wherein the second axial end (122) is engaged with an engagement element (141) housing the biasing element (130).

8. The aerosol-generating unit (100) of claim 7, wherein the engagement element (141) is tubular and extends within a tank (140).

9. The aerosol-generating unit (100) of claim 8, wherein the engagement element (141) includes one or more openings to allow ingress of liquid aerosol precursor into the elongate wick (120).

10. The aerosol-generating unit (100) of claim 7 or 8, wherein the tank (140) includes a base wall or a sealing element (143) and the elongate wick (120) is located through the base wall or the sealing element (143).

11. An aerosol-generating component (1000) comprising:P0167500860517223 an outer housing (150) and a base portion (160) enclosing an aerosol-generating unit (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, the outer housing (150) comprising a mouthpiece (151) and the aerosol-generating component (1000) having a component axis extending between the base portion (160) and the mouthpiece (151).

12. An aerosol-generating component (2000) according to claim 1 1 , wherein the aerosolgenerating unit is a first aerosol-generating unit (200a) and the aerosol-generating component (2000) further comprises a second aerosol-generating unit (200b) according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

13. The aerosol-generating component (2000) of claim 12, wherein the first and second aerosolgenerating units (200a, 200b) are laterally opposed across the component axis.

14. The aerosol-generating component (2000) of either claim 12 or 13, wherein the first and second aerosolisation surfaces (211 a, 21 1 b) are coplanar.

15. An aerosol-generating apparatus comprising: an aerosol-generating unit according to any one of claims 1 to 10 or an aerosol-generating component according to any one of claims 11 to 14; and a device including a power supply for powering the aerosol-generating unit(s).P01675

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