Aerosol generating component

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to an aerosol-generating component comprising a first aerosol-generating unit having a first piezoelectric transducer and a second aerosol-generating unit having a second piezoelectric transducer. A common electrode is located between the first and second piezoelectric transducers and the first and second piezoelectric transducers are each electrically connected to the common electrode.

Description

[0001] 008587958

[0002] 1

[0003] AEROSOL GENERATING COMPONENT

[0004] FIELD

[0005] The present disclosure relates to an aerosol generating component for use in an aerosol generating apparatus and an aerosol-generating apparatus comprising the component.

[0006] BACKGROUND

[0007] A typical aerosol generating apparatus may comprise a power supply, an aerosol generating unit that is driven by the power supply, an aerosol precursor, which in use is aerosolised by the aerosol generating unit to generate an aerosol, and a delivery system for delivery of the aerosol to a user.

[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, the 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 upper surface of the liquid) that may form ligaments to expel droplets from the upper 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 upper surface of the liquid, typically within an aerosolisation chamber.

[0010] In an aerosol generating apparatus using a PET, a liquid aerosol precursor is typically applied to the PET surface using a wick in fluid communication with a tank. The aerosol generated by cavitation of the liquid aerosol precursor will be drawn from the aerosolisation chamber along an aerosol flow path by suction at a mouthpiece outlet.

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

[0012] These challenges are exacerbated where there is a desire provide an aerosol generating apparatus that can deliver two aerosols, e.g. one nicotine-containing aerosol and one flavour aerosol, simultaneously or sequentially to the user.

[0013] In spite of the effort already invested in the development of aerosol generating apparatuses further improvements are desirable.

[0014] P01665 008587958

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[0016] SUMMARY

[0017] According to a first aspect there is a provided an aerosol-generating component (e.g. a smoking substitute component) comprising: a first aerosol-generating unit having a first piezoelectric transducer (PET); a second aerosol-generating unit having a second PET; and a common electrode located between the first and second PETs, wherein the first and second PETs are each electrically connected to the common electrode.

[0018] By providing a common electrode that is interposed between and electrically connected to the two PETs, it is possible to provide two aerosol-generating units in an aerosol generating component (e.g. in a component for generating two aerosols from two liquid / gel aerosol precursors) in a compact arrangement.

[0019] Optional features will now be set out. These are applicable singly or in any combination with any aspect.

[0020] The common electrode may be a common ground electrode.

[0021] In some embodiments, the first aerosol generating unit comprises a first aerosolisation chamber and the second aerosol-generating unit comprises a second aerosolisation chamber. The first PET and second PET may be interposed between the first and second aerosolisation chambers. The common electrode may be interposed between the first and second aerosolisation chambers.

[0022] In other embodiments, there may be a common aerosolisation chamber i.e. a common aerosolisation chamber shared by the two PETs.

[0023] Each of the first and second PETs may comprise a respective base surface and a respective aerosolisation surface. The aerosolisation surface of the first PET may face into the first aerosolisation chamber. The aerosolisation surface of the second PET may face into the second aerosolisation chamber. Where there is a common aerosolisation chamber, the aerosolisation surfaces of both PETs may face into the common aerosolisation chamber.

[0024] The base surfaces of the first and second PET may face each other. The common electrode may be at least partly interposed between the base surfaces of the first and second PETs.

[0025] The PETs may each have a respective PET axis extending between the respective aerosolisation and base surfaces. The first and second PET axes may be parallel e.g. they may be coaxial.

[0026] The PET axes may be substantially perpendicular with the component axis. Thus the PETs may be laterally opposed across the component axis. Thus the first and second aerosol-generating units may be laterally opposed across the component axis. The component axis typically extends longitudinally between a base portion of the component (which may have at least one air inlet) and a mouthpiece portion (which may define at least one aerosol outlet).

[0027] P01665 008587958

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[0029] The base surface of each PET may comprise a respective base electrical contact for electrical connection to the common electrode.

[0030] Each PET may have at least one respective side wall extending between the respective base and aerosolisation surfaces. At least one (e.g. both) of the PETs may have a substantially elliptical e.g. circular cross-sectional profile transverse to the respective PET axis. In this case, the / each side wall may be a circumferentially-extending perimeter wall.

[0031] The side wall of the first and / or second PET may comprise a respective side electrical contact. The aerosolisation surface e.g. the perimeter of the aerosolisation surface of the first and / or second PET may comprise a respective top electrical contact.

[0032] The first aerosolisation-generating unit may comprise a first electrode for connection to the first side and / or top electrical contact.

[0033] The second aerosolisation-generating unit may comprise a second electrode for electrical connection to the second side and / or top electrical contact.

[0034] The first and / or second electrode may be connected (e.g. welded or soldered or clamped) to the side and / or top electrical contact.

[0035] The first and / or second electrode may be configured to be biased towards the side and / or top electrical contact. The first and / or second electrode may be configured to be biased towards the side wall / side electrical contact of the respective PET in a direction substantially perpendicular to the PET axis (which direction may be parallel to the component axis).

[0036] In some embodiments, the first and / or second electrode is a sprung electrode. The sprung electrode(s) will (each) have a respective contact portion biased into contact with the respective side / top electrical contact on the first / second PET. The first and / or second electrode may also have a respective fixed portion e.g. fixed in the base portion of the component.

[0037] The first and / or second electrode may be a leaf spring electrode having a convex contact portion biased into abutment with the respective side / top electrical contact.

[0038] In other embodiments, the first / second electrode may be a coiled spring. The coiled spring(s) may (each) have a spring axis extending perpendicular to the respective PET axis where the spring is configured to contact the side electrical contact and parallel to the PET axis where the spring is configured to contact the top electrical contact. The coiled spring(s) will (each) have a respective contact portion biased into abutment with the respective side / top electrical contact. The coiled spring(s) will (each) have a respective fixed portion at an opposing axial end of the spring from the respective contact portion.

[0039] In yet other embodiments, the first and / or second electrode may be a pogo pin. The pogo pin(s) will (each) have a plunger forming the respective contact portion in contact with the respective side and / or top electrical contact. The barrel of the pogo pin(s) may form the fixed portion(s).

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[0042] The common electrode may be connected (e.g. welded or soldered or clamped) to first and second base electrical contacts.

[0043] The common electrode may be configured to be biased towards the base electrical contacts of the first and second PET. The common electrode may be configured to be biased towards the base surfaces / base electrical contacts of the first and second PET in a direction substantially parallel (e.g. coaxial) to the PET axes (which direction may be perpendicular to the component axis).

[0044] In some embodiments, the common electrode comprises at least one sprung portion e.g. a first sprung portion biased towards the base surface of the first PET and a second sprung portion biased towards the base surface of the second PET. The first sprung portion will have a first contact portion biased into contact with the base electrical contact on the base surface of the first PET. The second sprung portion will have a second contact portion biased into contact with the base electrical contact on the base surface of the second PET. The common electrode may also have a fixed portion e.g. fixed in the base portion of the component. The fixed portion of the common electrode may be elongate and may extending parallel to e.g. coaxially with the component axis. The first and second sprung portions may be laterally opposed across the fixed portion.

[0045] The first sprung portion of the common electrode may be a leaf spring having a convex first contact portion biased into abutment with the base electrical contact on the base surface of the first PET. The second sprung portion of the common electrode may be a leaf spring having a convex second contact portion biased into abutment with the base electrical contact on the base surface of the second PET. The two leaf springs may extend substantially laterally from the fixed portion e.g. they may be laterally opposed across the fixed portion.

[0046] In other embodiments, the first spring portion and / or the second spring portion may each be a respective coiled spring. The coiled spring(s) may (each) have a spring axis extending parallel to (e.g. coaxially with) the respective PET axis. The coiled spring(s) will (each) have a respective contact portion biased into abutment with the respective base electrical contact. The coiled spring(s) may (each) be connected to the fixed portion e.g. the spring axes of the first and second coiled spring portions may be substantially perpendicular to the fixed portion e.g. substantially perpendicular to the component axis.

[0047] In yet other embodiments, the first and / or second sprung portions may each be a respective pogo pin. The pogo pins will each have a plunger forming the respective contact portion in contact with the respective base electrical contacts. The barrels of the pogo pins may be connected to the fixed portion. For example, the barrels may extend laterally from the fixed portion e.g. with their barrel axes aligned and substantially perpendicular to the fixed portion.

[0048] The first, second and common electrodes may be mounted within the base portion of the component.

[0049] The first aerosol-generating unit may comprise a first piezoelectric transducer assembly comprising the first PET. The first PET may be partly encapsulated within a first transducer housing. At least a portion of the first transducer housing may be electrically conductive e.g. a portion of the first transducer

[0050] P01665 008587958

[0051] 5 housing overlying the side and / or top electrical contact of the first PET may be electrically conductive. Thus, the conductive portion of the first transducer housing may provide the first electrode. In these embodiments, the component may further comprise a first electrical connector electrically connected to the first transducer housing (first electrode). The first electrical connector may be mounted in the base portion of the component.

[0052] The first sprung portion (e.g. the first coiled spring portion) of the common electrode may also be housed in the first transducer housing. The fixed portion of the common electrode may be electrically connected to the first sprung portion at a base surface of the first transducer housing. The first transducer housing may comprise an opening in a top surface (the top surface opposing the base surface along the first transducer housing axis which is preferably coincident with the first PET axis) through which the aerosolisation surface of the first PET is exposed.

[0053] The second aerosol-generating unit may comprise a second piezoelectric transducer assembly comprising the second PET. The second PET may be partly encapsulated within a second transducer housing. At least a portion of the second transducer housing may be electrically conductive e.g. a portion of the second transducer housing overlying the side and / or top electrical contact of the second PET may be electrically conductive. Thus, the conductive portion of the second transducer housing may provide the second electrode. In these embodiments, the component may further comprise a second electrical connector electrically connected to the second transducer housing (second electrode). The second electrical connector may be mounted in the base portion of the component.

[0054] The second sprung portion (e.g. the second coiled spring portion) of the common electrode may also be housed in the second transducer housing. The fixed portion of the common electrode may be electrically connected to the second sprung portion at a base surface of the second transducer housing. The second transducer housing may comprise an opening in a top surface (the top surface opposing the base surface along the second transducer housing axis which is preferably coincident with the second PET axis) through which the aerosolisation surface of the second PET is exposed.

[0055] The first and / or second PET(s) and / or the first second PET assemblies may be supported within the base portion of the component. A base portion axis extends between upper and lower surfaces of the base portion. The base portion axis may be parallel to e.g. coaxial with the component axis. The base portion axis may be perpendicular to the first and / or second PET axis / axes.

[0056] The first and / or second electrodes (e.g. the fixed portions of the sprung first and second electrodes) or the first and / or second electrical connectors may extend through the base portion to the lower surface of the base portion.

[0057] The common electrode (e.g. the fixed portion of the common electrode) may extend through the base portion to the lower surface of the base portion.

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[0060] The lower surface of the base portion be planar or may have a planar portion. The first and / or second and / or common electrodes (e.g. the fixed portions of the first and / or second and / or common electrodes) may extend through the base portion to terminate on the lower surface e.g. the planar lower surface or planar portion of the lower surface. In this way, all electrodes may terminate in a common plane (on the lower surface of the base portion). In other embodiments, the first and / or second electrical connectors may extend through the base portion to terminate on the planar lower surface or planar portion of the lower surface (e.g. along with the common electrode i.e. the fixed portion of the common electrode).

[0061] A PCB may be provided on the lower surface of the base portion and the first / second / common electrodes (e.g. the fixed portions of the first / second / common electrodes) and / or the first / second electrical connectors may be soldered onto the PCB.

[0062] The first aerosol-generating unit may comprise a first wick. The second aerosol-generating unit may comprise a second wick.

[0063] The first aerosol-generating unit may comprise a first tank in fluid communication with the first wick for supplying first liquid / gel aerosol precursor to the aerosolisation surface of the first PET. The first liquid / gel aerosol precursor may comprise an e-liquid / gel, for example, comprising a base liquid / gel (also referred to as a carrier) and may comprise an active compound e.g. nicotine. The base liquid / gel may include propylene glycol and / or vegetable glycerine.

[0064] The second aerosol-generating unit may comprise a second tank in fluid communication with the second wick for supplying second liquid / gel aerosol precursor to the aerosolisation surface of the second PET. The second liquid / gel aerosol precursor may comprise an e-liquid, for example, comprising a base liquid / gel (also referred to as a carrier) and may comprise a flavour compound. The base liquid / gel may include propylene glycol and / or vegetable glycerine.

[0065] Each wick may comprise at least one precursor collection portion facing or extending into the respective tank. Each wick may comprise a respective precursor delivery portion for delivery of the collected precursor to the respective PET i.e. to the aerosolisation surface of the respective PET. Each delivery portion may abut (e.g. overlie) the aerosolisation surface of the respective PET.

[0066] Each wick may comprise a porous and / or fibrous material e.g. a ceramic material or cotton. Liquid may be drawn from the respective tank (e.g. by capillary action) into the respective collection portion, along / through the wick, to the aerosolisation surface of the respective PET via the respective delivery portion of the wicks.

[0067] In some embodiments, the first aerosol-generating unit may comprise a first securing portion for securing the first wick in abutment with the first aerosolisation surface. The second aerosol-generating unit may comprise a second securing portion for securing the second wick in abutment with the second

[0068] P01665 008587958

[0069] 7 aerosolisation surface. The or each of the first / second securing portions may comprise a respective spring / clamp.

[0070] Additionally / alternatively, the first aerosol-generating unit may comprise a first fixing portion for fixing the position of the first wick and the first PET / first PET assembly may be biased into abutment (e.g. by a spring) with the fixed first wick. The second aerosol-generating unit may comprise a second fixing portion for fixing the position of the second wick and the second PET / second PET assembly may be biased into abutment (e.g. by a spring) with the fixed second wick.

[0071] The component comprises an airflow path that extends from the at least one air inlet (e.g. in the base portion) to the at least one aerosol outlet (e.g. in the mouthpiece portion). Thus a user may draw fluid (e.g. air) into and along the airflow path by inhaling at the outlet(s) (i.e. using the mouthpiece portion).

[0072] The air inlet(s) may be provided in the lower surface of the base portion.

[0073] The air flow path is in fluid communication with the first and second aerosolisation chambers facing the aerosolisation surfaces of the PETs or in fluid communication with the common aerosolisation chamber.

[0074] In some embodiments, the airflow path may comprise an upstream portion extending from the air inlet(s) to the aerosolisation chamber(s). The upstream portion of the airflow path may extend from the lower surface of the base portion, through the base portion to the aerosolisation chamber(s). Thus there may be at least one air channel (e.g. two diametrically opposed air channels) extending from the lower surface of the base portion through the base portion into the aerosolisation chambers. There may be two air channels, a first air channel extending to the first aerosolisation chamber and a second channel extending to a second aerosolisation chamber. There may be a first air inlet in the base portion feeding the first air channel and a second air inlet in the base portion feeding the second air channel.

[0075] A downstream portion of the airflow path may pass from the aerosolisation chamber(s) to the aerosol outlet. The downstream portion of the airflow path may pass between the tanks or may pass around the tanks.

[0076] The upstream portion(s) and downstream portion of the airflow path may be joined by an intermediate portion extending through the aerosolisation chamber(s) over / around the first and second PETs. For example, there may be a first airflow path through the component extending from the first air inlet, through the first air channel, over the first PET in the first aerosolisation chamber and to the aerosol outlet. There may be a second airflow path through the component extending from the second air inlet, through the second air channel, over the second PET in the second aerosolisation chamber and to the aerosol outlet. Thus the first and second airflow paths may combine in a chamber upstream of the mouthpiece portion.

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[0079] References to “downstream” in relation to the airflow path are intended to refer to the direction towards the outlet / mouth piece portion. Conversely, references to “upstream” are intended to refer to the direction towards the air inlet(s). Thus the / each air inlet is upstream of the outlet(s) / mouthpiece portion.

[0080] References to “upper”, “lower”, “above” or “below” are intended to refer to the component when in an upright / vertical orientation i.e. with elongate (longitudinal / length) axis of the component vertically aligned and with the mouthpiece vertically uppermost.

[0081] The component may comprise a component housing enclosing the first and second aerosol-generating units.

[0082] The component housing may be defined by one or more side walls extending longitudinally from the mouthpiece portion. The component housing wall(s) may be integrally formed with the mouthpiece portion.

[0083] In some embodiments, the component housing may be defined by a continuously curved side wall. The component may have an elliptical / circular transverse cross section (i.e. transverse to the longitudinal axis of the component).

[0084] In other embodiments, there may be laterally opposed first and second side walls. The component housing may further comprise opposing front and rear walls spaced by the laterally opposed first and second side walls. The distance between the first and second side walls may define a width of the component. The distance between the front and rear walls may define a depth of the component.

[0085] In some embodiments, the width of the component may be greater than the depth of the component.

[0086] The length of the component may be greater than the width of the component. The depth of the component may be smaller than each of the width and the length.

[0087] The length may be greater than the diameter of the component housing where the component has a circular transverse cross-section.

[0088] The component housing walls may be integrally formed and may additionally be integrally formed with the mouthpiece portion. In that way, the component may be easily manufactured using injection moulding.

[0089] A radially outer surface of the base portion may seal again an inner surface of the component housing e.g. at a lower end of the component housing.

[0090] In a second aspect there is provided an aerosol-generating apparatus comprising the component of the first aspect and a device which may comprise a power source for supplying power to the first and second PETs.

[0091] The component may be an aerosol generating (e.g. a smoking substitute) consumable i.e. in some embodiments the component may be a consumable component for engagement with the device to form the aerosol generating (e.g. a smoking substitute) apparatus.

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[0094] The device may be configured to receive the consumable component. For example 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.

[0095] Thus, the consumable component may comprise one or more engagement portions for engaging with the device.

[0096] The device and consumable component may be coupled together by magnetic attraction. For example, the device may comprise at least one magnet whilst the component may comprise a magnet or ferrous metal plate / portion.

[0097] The first, second and common electrodes form an electrical interface (e.g. on the lower surface of the base portion) for interfacing with a corresponding electrical interface of the device. Thus, when the device is engaged with the component, the electrical interface may be configured to transfer electrical power from the power source to the first and second PETs of the component.

[0098] As discussed above, the fixed portions of the first and second electrodes, and the common electrode may extend to the lower surface of the base portion for interfacing with the device.

[0099] 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.

[0100] 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.

[0101] In other embodiments, the component may be integrally formed with the device to form the aerosol generating (e.g. s smoking substitute) apparatus.

[0102] In such embodiments, the first and second aerosol precursors (e.g. e-liquids) may be replenished by re-filling first and second tanks that are integral with the device (rather than replacing the consumable component). Access to the tanks (for re-filling of the first / second e-liquids) may be provided via e.g. openings to the tanks that are sealable with a respective closure (e.g. a respective cap).

[0103] Further features of the device are described below. These are applicable to both the device for receiving a consumable component and to the device integral with the component.

[0104] The device may comprise a power source e.g. a rechargeable battery. The device may comprise a controller.

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[0107] 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. 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.

[0108] 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 PETs in response to airflow detection by the sensor. The control may be in the form of activation of the PETs in response to a detected airflow. The airflow sensor may form part of the device.

[0109] The controller may be configured to activate both the first and second PETs simultaneously so that the aerosol delivered at the outlet(s) comprises aerosol derived from both the first and second aerosol precursors. In other embodiments, the controller is configured to selectively activate either the first or second PET e.g. to modulate the relative amounts of aerosol derived from the first and second aerosol precursors. For example, the controller may be configured to activate the two PETs sequentially e.g. in an alternating manner. In other embodiments, the controller may be configured to delay activation of one of the PETs relative to the other.

[0110] The invention includes the combination of the aspects and preferred features described except where such a combination is clearly impermissible or expressly avoided.

[0111] 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.

[0112] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0113] 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.

[0114] Fig. 1 is a block system diagram showing an example aerosol generating apparatus.

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[0117] 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.

[0118] Figs. 3A and 3B are schematic diagrams showing an example implementation of the apparatus of Fig. 2.

[0119] Fig. 4 is a cross-section through a first embodiment.

[0120] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0121] 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 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.

[0122] 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.

[0123] Any patents, published patent applications, and non-patent publications mentioned in the specification are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

[0124] 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 concepts). 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.

[0125] 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.

[0126] 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).

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[0129] 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.

[0130] 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 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.

[0131] 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:

[0132] 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).

[0133] 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.

[0134] 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.

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[0137] 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.

[0138] The device body may comprise a power supply for powering the aerosol generating unit.

[0139] 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 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.

[0140] 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).

[0141] 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.

[0142] 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.

[0143] 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.

[0144] 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.

[0145] 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 008587958

[0146] 14 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 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.

[0147] 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.

[0148] 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.

[0149] 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.

[0150] 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.

[0151] 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.

[0152] 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 an aerosolisation chamber.

[0153] 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

[0154] P01665 008587958

[0155] 15 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.

[0156] 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 cut-outs to encode a bit, through which pins or a reader may be inserted).

[0157] Referring to Fig. 1 , an example aerosol generating apparatus 1 includes a power supply 2, for supply of electrical energy. The apparatus 1 includes two aerosol generating units 4a and 4b that are 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 two precursors 6a and 6b, which in use are aerosolised by the aerosol generating units 4a and 4b to generate aerosols. Each aerosol generating unit 4a and 4b 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 respective precursor 6a / 6b. Collapse of the cavities in the precursors 6a / 6b induces a shock that propagates through the liquid precursor 6a / 6b. This shock disturbs a surface of the liquid precursor 6a / 6b that interfaces with air within a respective 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 6a / 6b into the airflow path, thereby aerosolising the precursor 6a / 6b to generate the aerosols. The apparatus 2 includes a delivery system 8 for delivery of the aerosols to a user.

[0158] Electrical circuitry (not shown in figure 1) may be implemented to control the interoperability of the power supply 2 and aerosol generating units 4a / 4b.

[0159] 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 precursors.

[0160] In this example, the apparatus 1 includes a device body 10 and an aerosol generating component 30.

[0161] 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.

[0162] P01665 008587958

[0163] 16

[0164] 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.

[0165] The wireless interface 16 may be configured to communicate wirelessly with an external (e.g. mobile) device, e.g. via Bluetooth.

[0166] 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).

[0167] The component 30 includes two storage portions implemented here as a first tank 32a and a second tank 32b which stores the respective liquid precursor 6a (e.g. e-liquid) and 6b (e.g. a flavour-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.

[0168] 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.

[0169] The first piezoelectric transducer 34a of the first aerosol generating unit 4a and the second piezoelectric transducer 34b of the second aerosol-generating unit 4b are 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 transducers 34a and 34b. Additionally or alternatively, the piezoelectric transducers 34a / 34b 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 transducers 34a, 34b and / or to transmit data indicative of the operational parameters of the piezoelectric transducers 34a, 34b.

[0170] Moreover, the first piezoelectric transducer 34a is arranged to be in fluid communication with the first tank 32a e.g. via a first wick such that the first liquid precursor can be provided to the aerosolisation surface of the first piezoelectric transducer 34a. The second piezoelectric transducer 34b is arranged to be in fluid communication with the second tank 32b e.g. via a second wick such that the second liquid precursor can be provided to the aerosolisation surface of the second piezoelectric transducer 34b.

[0171] 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. a respective aerosolisation chamber) in proximity to the piezoelectric transducers 34a, 34b. The controller may control operation of the first and second piezoelectric transducers 34a, 34b such that first and second aerosols may be generated simultaneously, or sequentially (e.g. alternately). 008587958

[0172] 17

[0173] 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.

[0174] 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.

[0175] In this example, the delivery system 8 is provided by the above-described flow path and mouthpiece 38.

[0176] 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.

[0177] 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.

[0178] 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.

[0179] 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.

[0180] The device body 10 also includes a charging port (not shown) at a bottom end 13 of the device body 10.

[0181] 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.

[0182] In this example, the component 30 has an opaque cap 31 , tanks 32a / 32b 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 tanks 32a / 32b being obscured from view by the device body 008587958

[0183] 18

[0184] 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 6a / 6b in the tank 32a / b to be visually assessed, even when the component 30 is physically coupled to the device body 10.

[0185] Referring to Fig. 4, there is shown an aerosol-generating component 30 comprising a first aerosolgenerating unit 4a having a first PET 34a and a second aerosol-generating unit 4b having a second PET 34b. Each PET has a base surface 35a, 35b with a base electrical contact 37a, 37b. The base surfaces 35a, 35b of the first and second PETs 34a, 34b face each other and are parallel. The axes through the PETS 34a, 34b from the base surfaces 35a, 35b to the opposing aerosolisation surfaces 51 a, 51 b are coaxial and are perpendicular to a component axis extending from a base portion 39 to a mouthpiece portion.

[0186] A common ground electrode 42 is located between the first and second PETs 34a, 34b and the first and second PETs 34a, 34b are each electrically connected to the common electrode 43 through their base electrical contacts 37a, 37b.

[0187] The common electrode 42 comprises two sprung portions 43a, 43 which are laterally opposed across a fixed portion 44 of the common electrode 42. The fixed portion 44 of the common electrode 42 is elongate and extends coaxially with the component axis.

[0188] The first sprung portion 43a is biased towards the base surface 35a of the first PET 34a and the second sprung portion 43b is biased towards the base surface 35b of the second PET 34b. The first sprung portion 43a has a first contact portion biased into contact with the base electrical contact 37a on the base surface 35a of the first PET 34a. The second sprung portion 43b has a second contact portion biased into contact with the base electrical contact 37b on the base surface 35b of the second PET 34b.

[0189] The first sprung portion 43a and second sprung portion 43b of the common electrode 42 may each be a leaf spring having a respective convex first contact portion biased into abutment with the base electrical contact 37a, 37b on the base surface 35a, 35b of the respective PET 34a, 34b.

[0190] The first sprung portion 43a and second sprung portion 43b may each be a respective coiled spring having a spring axis extending coaxially with the respective PET axis and biased into abutment with the respective base electrical contact 37a, 37b.

[0191] Each PET 34a, 34b is substantially circular in cross-sectional profile transverse to the respective PET axis. Each PET 34a, 34b has a circumferentially-extending perimeter side wall 45a, 45b with a side electrical contact 46a, 46b.

[0192] The first aerosolisation-generating unit 4a comprises a first electrode 47 for connection to the first side electrical contact 46a.

[0193] The second aerosolisation-generating 4b unit comprises a second electrode 48 for electrical connection to the second side electrical contact 46b.

[0194] P01665 008587958

[0195] 19

[0196] The first and second electrode 47, 48 are each a pogo pin extending through the base portion 39 to the lower surface 39a of the base portion 39.

[0197] The fixed portion 44 of the common electrode 42 also extends through the base portion to the lower surface 39a of the base portion 39.

[0198] The lower surface 39a of the base portion 39 is planar so that all electrodes terminate in a common plane (on the lower surface 39a of the base portion 39).

[0199] The first aerosol generating unit 4a comprises a first aerosolisation chamber 49a and the second aerosol-generating unit 4b comprises a second aerosolisation chamber 49b.

[0200] The first aerosol-generating unit 4a comprises a first wick 50a. The second aerosol-generating unit 4b comprises a second wick 50b.

[0201] The first tank 32s contains a nicotine-containing e-liquid and is in fluid communication with the first wick 50a for supplying e-liquid to the aerosolisation surface 51 a of the first PET 34a.

[0202] The second tank 32b contains a flavoured e-liquid and is in fluid communication with the second wick 50b for supplying flavoured e-liquid to the aerosolisation surface 51 b of the second PET 34b.

[0203] The component 30 comprises an airflow path that extends from two air inlets 36a, 36b in the base portion 39 to an aerosol outlet 52 in the mouthpiece portion 38 via the aerosolisation chambers 53a, 53b which are the aerosolisation surfaces 51 a, 51 b. Thus a user may draw air into and along the airflow path by inhaling at the outlet 52 in the mouthpiece portion 38. In doing so, they will draw aerosol generated in the aerosolisation chambers 53a, 53b to the outlet 52 for inhalation.

[0204] P01665

Claims

00858795820CLAIMS1 . An aerosol-generating component comprising: a first aerosol-generating unit having a first piezoelectric transducer; a second aerosol-generating unit having a second piezoelectric transducer; and a common electrode located between the first and second piezoelectric transducers, wherein the first and second PETs are each electrically connected to the common electrode.

2. An aerosol-generating component according to claim 1 wherein the common electrode is a common ground electrode.

3. An aerosol-generating component according to any one of the preceding claims wherein each piezoelectric transducer comprises a base surface and an aerosolisation surface and wherein the base surfaces of the first and second piezoelectric transducers are facing each other.

4. An aerosol-generating component according to claim 4 wherein each PET comprises a PET axis extending between the respective base and aerosolisation surface and wherein the PET axes are coaxial.

5. An aerosol-generating component according to claim 4 wherein the PET axes are substantially perpendicular to a component axis extending between a base portion and a mouthpiece portion.

6. An aerosol-generating component according to any one of claims 3 to 5 wherein the common electrode is interposed between the base surfaces.

7. An aerosol-generating component according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the first aerosol-generating unit comprises a first aerosolisation chamber and the second aerosolgenerating unit and wherein the first and second piezoelectric transducers and the common electrode are interposed between the first and second aerosolisation chambers.

8. An aerosol-generating component according to any one of the preceding claims comprising a first airflow path from a first air inlet, through the first aerosolisation chamber to an aerosol outlet and a second airflow path from a second air inlet, through the second aerosolisation chamber to the aerosol outlet9. An aerosol-generating component according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the common electrode comprises a first spring portion biased into contact with the first PET and a second spring portion biased into contact with the second PET.

10. An aerosol-generating component according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the first aerosol-generating unit comprises a first electrode connected to, in abutment with or or biased towards the first piezoelectric transducer and the second aerosol-generating unit comprises a second electrode connected to, in abutment with or biased towards the second piezoelectric transducer.P016650085879582111. An aerosol-generating component according to claim wherein the first and / or second electrode is a sprung electrode.

12. An aerosol-generating component according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the first aerosol-generating unit comprises a first wick and a first tank in fluid communication with the first wick, and the second aerosol-generating unit comprises a second wick and a second tank in fluid communication with the second wick.

13. An aerosol-generating component according to claim 12 wherein the first tank comprises a first aerosol precursor and the second tank comprises a second, different aerosol precursor.

14. An aerosol-generating apparatus comprising the component of any one of the preceding claims and a device, the device comprising a power source for supplying power to the first and second piezoelectric transducers.P01665

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