Aerosol generating device with charcoal-based heating

Abstract

The aerosol generating device (12) is adapted to operate with an aerosol generating article (1) and comprises: - a heating unit (24) comprising a heating chamber (26) adapted to receive at least partially the aerosol generating article (1) to heat it; - a substrate container (36; 136; ….; 936) comprising a charcoal-based substrate (38; 138; …; 938); - a combustion unit (42; 142; …942) comprising a combustion chamber (44; 144; …; 944) adapted to combust the charcoal-based substrate (38; 138; …; 938) to heat the heating chamber (26); - a delivery mechanism (62; 162; …; 962) adapted to deliver the charcoal-based substrate (38; 138; …; 938) from the substrate container (36; 136; ….; 936) to the combustion chamber (44; 144; …; 944). The charcoal-based substrate (38; 138; …; 938) comprises charcoal powder.

Description

[0001] Aerosol generating device with charcoal-based heating

[0002] FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0003] The present invention concerns an aerosol generating device adapted to operate with an aerosol generating article comprising an aerosol generating substrate able to form aerosol when being heated.

[0004] The aerosol generating article is configured to operate with the aerosol generating device. Such type of aerosol generating device, also known as heat-not-burn device, is adapted to heat, rather than burn, the aerosol generating substrate to generate aerosol for inhalation.

[0005] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0006] As opposed to tobacco burning devices, various devices that heat or warm vaporizable substances in conventional tobacco products are available.

[0007] For example, such devices are heat-not-burn devices. Devices of this type generate aerosol or vapour by heating an aerosol generating substrate that typically comprises moist leaf tobacco or other suitable vaporizable material to a temperature typically in the range of 150°C to 350°C. Furthermore, the aerosol produced by heating the tobacco or other vaporizable material does not typically comprise the burnt or bitter taste resulting from combustion and burning that can be unpleasant for the user and so the substrate does not therefore require the sugars and other additives that are typically added to such materials to make the smoke and / or vapour more palatable for the user.

[0008] For instance, the aerosol generating article comprises an aerosol generating part and a mouthpiece portion. The aerosol generating part comprises an aerosol generating substrate intended to be heated to generate aerosol. The aerosol generating article, in particular the aerosol generating part, is intended to be received at least partially within a heating chamber of the aerosol generating device, wherein the aerosol generating part is heated. The mouthpiece portion allows the aerosol to cool down and to transfer from the aerosol generating part to the outlet of the article.

[0009] It is crucial that the aerosol generating part, in particular the aerosol generating substrate, is heated enough, to carry out an optimal aerosol generation. To do so, it is known to provide the aerosol generating device with a capability of heating the aerosol generating substrate when the article is received in the heating chamber of the device. However, such heaters, in particular electrically powered heaters and associated power sources, have inherent limitations in terms of heating speed and efficiency for hand-held devices formats expected by consumers.

[0010] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0011] One of the aims of the invention is to provide an aerosol generating device wherein the heating of the heating chamber can be improved, the energy consumption of the battery can be reduced and the battery lifetime of the aerosol generating device so be increased. Additionally, heating of the aerosol generating part can be performed very quickly such that a pre-heating phase can be eliminated or at least reduced.

[0012] For this purpose, the invention relates to an aerosol generating device adapted to operate with an aerosol generating article and comprising:

[0013] - a heating unit comprising a heating chamber adapted to receive at least partially the aerosol generating article to heat it, in particular without combustion;

[0014] - a substrate container comprising a charcoal-based substrate;

[0015] - a combustion unit comprising a combustion chamber adapted to combust the charcoalbased substrate to heat the heating chamber;

[0016] - a delivery mechanism adapted to deliver the charcoal-based substrate from the substrate container to the combustion chamber; wherein the charcoal-based substrate comprises charcoal powder.

[0017] Thanks to these features, the heating chamber is heated by combustion of the charcoal-based substrate within the combustion chamber. The fact that the charcoal-based substrate comprises charcoal powder makes it possible to easily control the length and / or temperature of the heating. Furthermore, thanks to these features, the heating chamber can be heated at a convenient temperature quickly which drastically reduces any pre-heating phase. Additionally, the combustion of charcoal has a large activation energy so providing it in smaller particles decreases the absolute amount of energy required to initiate the combustion, which, once it has started, will ignite the incoming flow of powder. According to some embodiments, the combustion unit comprises an ignitor arranged at least partially within the combustion chamber and adapted to ignite the charcoal-based substrate.

[0018] Thanks to these features, the ignition of the charcoal-based substrate is carried out within the combustion chamber.

[0019] According to some embodiments, the ignitor comprises an electrical wire, a plasma ignition element, an arc ignition element and / or a laser.

[0020] Thanks to these features, the ignition of the charcoal-based substrate is carried out by electronic means. These ignitors are safe, easy to implement and energy-efficient.

[0021] According to some embodiments, the delivery mechanism is adapted to deliver the charcoal-based substrate to the combustion chamber at a predetermined flowrate.

[0022] Thanks to these features, the combustion unit generates heat at a predetermined rate since the energy rate is proportional to the flowrate of charcoal-based substrate delivered to the combustion chamber.

[0023] According to some embodiments, the aerosol generating device further comprises:

[0024] - a temperature sensor configured for measuring the temperature within the heating chamber;

[0025] - a controller configured for controlling the delivery mechanism so that the delivery mechanism delivers the charcoal-based substrate to the combustion chamber at an adapted flowrate depending on the temperature measured by the temperature sensor.

[0026] Thanks to these features, the flowrate of charcoal-based substrate depends on the temperature measured within the heating chamber. This feedback-loop makes it possible to adjust the rate of consumption of the charcoal-based substrate depending on needs of the heating chamber.

[0027] According to some embodiments, the aerosol generating device further comprises an exhaust unit adapted to release exhaust gases generated within the combustion chamber outside of the device, and comprising:

[0028] - an exhaust inlet in fluidic communication with the combustion chamber; - an exhaust outlet in fluidic communication with the atmosphere surrounding the device;

[0029] - at least a conduit fluidically connecting the exhaust inlet and the exhaust outlet.

[0030] Thanks to these features, the exhaust gases generated by the combustion of the charcoal-based substrate are expelled from within the device to the outside of the device.

[0031] According to some embodiments, the exhaust unit comprises at least a filter for filtering the exhaust gases.

[0032] Thanks to these features, exhaust particles are filtered out from the exhaust gases before the exhaust gases are released into the atmosphere.

[0033] According to some embodiments, the exhaust unit comprises at least a catalytic converter for treating the exhaust gases.

[0034] Thanks to these features, gases and pollutants of the exhaust gases are converted into environment-friendly by-products such as CO2 and water before being released into the atmosphere.

[0035] According to some embodiments, the aerosol generating device comprises a main body comprising the heating unit, the combustion chamber and at least a part of the delivery mechanism, the substrate container being removably mounted onto the main body.

[0036] Thanks to these features, the substrate container can be removed and replaced by another substrate container, for example when the substrate container is empty of charcoalbased substrate.

[0037] According to some embodiments, the aerosol generating device comprises a main body comprising the heating unit, the substrate container, the combustion unit and the delivery mechanism, the substrate container being permanently mounted onto the main body.

[0038] Thanks to these features, the device is more robust. The substrate container can be refilled by a user of the device through a refilling-inlet for example. According to some embodiments, the aerosol generating device further comprises a heat conduction part configured for conducting heat generated by the combustion unit to the heating chamber of the heating unit, the heat conduction part presenting a heat flux greater than 1000 W / m2.

[0039] Thanks to these features, the heat generated by the combustion unit is efficiently transferred to the heating chamber.

[0040] According to some embodiments, the charcoal powder is formed by particles of charcoal having a size ranging between 50 pm and 1 mm.

[0041] Thanks to these features, the size of the particles is large enough to avoid dust explosion and reduce risk if inhaled and is small enough to present a satisfying surface area to volume ratio, which increases the combustion efficiency.

[0042] In some embodiments, the charcoal-based substrate is made up of a granular material, said granular material comprising the charcoal powder.

[0043] In some embodiments, the charcoal-based substrate consists of charcoal powder.

[0044] According to some embodiments, the delivery mechanism comprises:

[0045] - a mixing chamber fluidically connecting the combustion chamber and the substrate container;

[0046] - a vortex generator configured to create a negative pressure in the mixing chamber to draw the charcoal-based substrate from the substrate container and blowing it into the combustion chamber.

[0047] Thanks to these features, the delivery mechanism efficiently transfers the charcoalbased substrate from the substrate container to the combustion chamber. The use of a vortex generator is particularly safe regarding the manipulation of the charcoal powder. Furthermore, the vortex generator is easily controllable to adjust the flowrate of charcoalbased substrate injected within the combustion chamber.

[0048] According to some embodiments, the delivery mechanism further comprises:

[0049] - a breaking mechanism configured for breaking down the charcoal-based substrate within the mixing chamber into particles; - a filter arranged between the mixing chamber and the combustion chamber, the filter being configured for :

[0050] - authorizing the transfer of particles of charcoal-based substrate of diameter below or equal to a predetermined diameter from the mixing chamber to the combustion chamber; and

[0051] - preventing the transfer of particles of charcoal-based substrate of diameter above the predetermined diameter from the mixing chamber to the combustion chamber.

[0052] Thanks to these features, larger particles can be used in the substrate container, which is easier to handle. The larger particles are then broken up into smaller particles before combustion, which is better for efficiency. This improves the system's overall safety whilst maintaining its key benefits to maximise the number of sessions before the substrate container is required to be replenished or replaced.

[0053] According to some embodiments, the delivery mechanism comprises:

[0054] - an auger screw extending from the substrate container to the combustion chamber along an axis of rotation, configured for moving the charcoal-based substrate from the substrate container to the combustion chamber along the axis of rotation;

[0055] - a motor configured for driving the auger screw in rotation about the axis of rotation.

[0056] Thanks to these features, the delivery mechanism is easy to implement. The mechanical action of the auger screw is particularly safe regarding the manipulation of charcoal powder. Furthermore, the motor is easily controllable to adjust the flowrate of charcoal-based substrate injected within the combustion chamber.

[0057] According to some embodiments, the substrate container comprises at least a guiding element adapted to guide the charcoal-based substrate towards the auger screw.

[0058] Thanks to these features, it is ensured that charcoal-based substrate is provided to the screw in various device orientations.

[0059] According to some embodiments, the delivery mechanism further comprises a compressed air source adapted to create a venturi effect at an inlet of the combustion chamber connected to the substrate container to draw the charcoal-based substrate from the substrate container into the combustion chamber. Thanks to these features, the delivery mechanism efficiently transfers the charcoalbased substrate from the substrate container to the combustion chamber. The airflow through the venturi creates low pressure which pulls the charcoal-based substrate into the chamber. The use of a compressed air source is particularly safe regarding the manipulation of the charcoal powder. Furthermore, the compressed air source is easily controllable to adjust the flowrate of charcoal-based substrate injected within the combustion chamber.

[0060] According to some embodiments, the delivery mechanism further comprises a compressed air source adapted to blow the compressed air into the substrate container to generate a fluidized bed of charcoal-based substrate within the substrate container.

[0061] Thanks to these features, the pulling of the charcoal-based substrate towards the combustion chamber is made easier.

[0062] According to some embodiments, the delivery mechanism further comprises:

[0063] - a first pair of electrodes configured for generating a first electric field within the substrate container to polarize the charcoal-based substrate; and

[0064] - a second pair of electrodes configured for generating a second electric field at an outlet of the substrate container connected to an inlet of the combustion chamber, so that the polarized charcoal-based substrate moves into the combustion chamber by dielectrophoresis effect due to the second electric field.

[0065] Thanks to these features, dielectrophoresis warms the charcoal powder through joule heating, which means less energy is needed to ignite the charcoal powder. This makes the device even more energy efficient.

[0066] According to some embodiments, the delivery mechanism further comprises:

[0067] - a first pair of electrodes configured for generating a first electric field within the substrate container to polarize the charcoal-based substrate; and

[0068] - at least an other electrode arranged at a distal end of the combustion chamber with regard to the substrate container, the at least one other electrode being configured for being charged to attract the polarized charcoal-based substrate within the combustion chamber.

[0069] According to some embodiments, the delivery mechanism further comprises: - a first pair of electrodes configured for generating a first electric field within the substrate container to polarize the charcoal-based substrate; and

[0070] - a second pair of electrodes configured to generate a second electric field coercing the polarized charcoal-based substrate toward the combustion chamber.

[0071] According to some embodiments, the second pair of electrodes comprises a distal electrode arranged onto a distal wall of the combustion unit, the distal wall of the combustion unit being arranged opposite to an inlet of the combustion chamber across the combustion chamber.

[0072] Thanks to these features, the charcoal-based substrate is attracted by the distal electrode until it reaches the distal end of the combustion chamber. This makes it possible to better disperse the charcoal-based substrate within the combustion chamber.

[0073] According to some embodiments, the second pair of electrodes further comprises a proximal electrode arranged onto the substrate container.

[0074] According to some embodiments, the proximal electrode is arranged onto a bottom of the substrate container arranged at an end of the substrate container opposite to the outlet of the substrate container connected to the combustion chamber.

[0075] According to some embodiments, the proximal electrode is arranged across a passageway connecting the substrate container and the combustion chamber.

[0076] Thanks to these features, a strong electric field is applied onto the polarized charcoal powder particles. Furthermore, the bulkiness of the device is reduced since the electrodes are smartly arranged on parts of the substrate container and / or combustion unit.

[0077] According to some embodiments, the proximal electrode is perforated to allow the charcoal-based substrate to flow through the passageway.

[0078] Thanks to these features, the proximal electrodes does not block the passage of charcoal-based substrate through the passageway. According to some embodiments, the proximal electrode is arranged on a peripheral surface delimiting a passageway connecting the substrate container and the combustion chamber.

[0079] Thanks to these features, the bulkiness of the device, in particular of the delivery mechanism, is further reduced.

[0080] According to some embodiments, the ignitor is arranged onto the distal wall of the combustion unit.

[0081] Thanks to these features, it is ensured that the ignition of the charcoal-based substrate starts when sufficient charcoal-based substrate has entered the combustion chamber.

[0082] According to some embodiments, the delivery mechanism further comprises:

[0083] - a first pair of electrodes configured for generating a first electric field within the substrate container to polarize the charcoal-based substrate;

[0084] - an electric generator configured for applying a charge to the combustion chamber so that the polarized charcoal-based substrate is attracted by the combustion chamber.

[0085] Thanks to these features, the bulkiness of the device is further reduced since the combustion chamber is also used as part of the delivery mechanism.

[0086] According to some embodiments, the charcoal-based substrate further comprises a solvent, the charcoal powder being suspended in the solvent, the solvent preferably comprising an alcohol such as ethanol or isopropanol.

[0087] According to some embodiments, the charcoal powder is formed by particles of charcoal having a size ranging mainly between 10 pm and 100 pm, preferably between 50 pm and 100 pm.

[0088] Thanks to these features, the charcoal-based substrate is in a flammable solvent that participates in ignition and heat generation.

[0089] According to some embodiments, the delivery mechanism further comprises: - a hydraulic actuator configured for drawing charcoal-based substrate from within the substrate container and providing the drawn charcoal-based substrate to an atomizer nozzle;

[0090] - the atomizer nozzle configured for atomizing the charcoal-based substrate provided by the hydraulic actuator.

[0091] Thanks to these features, the suspension is atomized to enhance the combustion efficiency within the combustion chamber.

[0092] According to some embodiments, the hydraulic actuator comprises a diaphragm pump.

[0093] According to some embodiments, the hydraulic actuator comprises a metering valve.

[0094] According to some embodiments, the delivery mechanism further comprises a solenoid actuator configured for controlling the metering valve.

[0095] Thanks to these features, the suspension of charcoal-based substrate is provided at the combustion chamber at a precise flowrate which is easily adjustable.

[0096] According to some embodiments, the solenoid actuator is arranged at an end of the substrate container which is opposite to an other end of the substrate container connected to the combustion chamber.

[0097] According to some embodiments, the delivery mechanism further comprises a nebulizer formed by a vibrating mesh.

[0098] Thanks to these features, the transfer of the suspension is carried out with very low power provided to the nebulizer. The vibrating mesh can provide a constant supply of mist into the combustion chamber.

[0099] According to some embodiments, the delivery mechanism further comprises a compressed air source configured for creating a vacuum within the combustion chamber to draw the charcoal-based substrate from the substrate container into the combustion chamber. Thanks to these features, a high flowrate of suspension can be provided. A higher temperature in the combustion chamber can be reached. The air jet also ensures that the suspension is well mixed and the exhaust gases are discharged effectively from the chamber.

[0100] According to some embodiments, the delivery mechanism further comprises an electronic valve configured for opening or closing an outlet of the substrate container connected with the combustion chamber.

[0101] Thanks to these features, any leakage of the substrate container is prevented.

[0102] The invention also concerns an aerosol generating assembly comprising:

[0103] - an aerosol generating article;

[0104] - an aerosol generating device as described above, the aerosol generating device being adapted to operate with the aerosol generating article.

[0105] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0106] The invention and its advantages will be better understood upon reading the following description, which is given solely by way of non-limiting example and which is made with reference to the appended drawings, in which:

[0107] - Figure 1 is a simplified cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating assembly according to the invention, the cross-section being in a plane including an axis of the aerosol generating device;

[0108] - Figure 2 is a simplified cross-section view of an aerosol generating assembly according to a first embodiment of the invention;

[0109] - Figure 3 is a simplified cross-section view of an aerosol generating assembly according to a second embodiment of the invention;

[0110] - Figure 4 is a simplified cross-section view of an aerosol generating assembly according to a third embodiment of the invention; - Figure 5 is a simplified cross-section view of an aerosol generating assembly according to a fourth embodiment of the invention;

[0111] - Figure 6 is a simplified cross-section view of an aerosol generating assembly according to a fifth embodiment of the invention;

[0112] - Figure 7 is a simplified cross-section view of an aerosol generating assembly according to a sixth embodiment of the invention;

[0113] - Figure 8 is a simplified cross-section view of an aerosol generating assembly according to a seventh embodiment of the invention;

[0114] - Figure 9 is a simplified cross-section view of an aerosol generating assembly according to a eighth embodiment of the invention;

[0115] - Figure 10 is a simplified cross-section view of an aerosol generating assembly according to a ninth embodiment of the invention.

[0116] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0117] Before describing the invention, it is to be understood that it is not limited to the details of construction set forth in the following description. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art having the benefit of the present disclosure that the invention may be practiced or be carried out in various ways and embodiments in addition to those specifically described herein.

[0118] As used herein, the term “aerosol generating device” or “device” may include a vaping device to deliver an aerosol to a user, including an aerosol for vaping, by means of a heater element explained in further details below. The device may be portable. “Portable” may refer to the device being for use when held by a user. The device may be adapted to generate a variable amount of aerosol, e.g. by activating the heater element for a variable amount of time (as opposed to a metered dose of aerosol), which can be controlled by a trigger. The trigger may be user activated, such as a vaping button and / or inhalation sensor. The inhalation sensor may be sensitive to the strength of inhalation as well as the duration of inhalation to enable a variable amount of vapour to be provided (so as to mimic the effect of smoking a conventional combustible smoking article such as a cigarette, cigar or pipe, etc.). The device may include a temperature regulation control to drive the temperature of the heater and / or the heated aerosol generating substance (aerosol pre-cursor) to a specified target temperature and thereafter to maintain the temperature at the target temperature that enables efficient generation of aerosol.

[0119] As used herein, the term “aerosol” may include a suspension of vaporizable material as one or more of: solid particles; liquid droplets; gas. Said suspension may be in a gas including air. Aerosol herein may generally refer to / include a vapour. Aerosol may include one or more components of the vaporizable material.

[0120] As used herein, the term “aerosol generating substrate” or “vaporizable material” may refer to a smokable material which may for example comprise nicotine or tobacco and an aerosol former. Tobacco may take the form of various materials such as shredded tobacco, granulated tobacco, tobacco leaf and / or reconstituted tobacco. Suitable aerosol formers include: a polyol such as sorbitol, glycerol, and glycols like propylene glycol or triethylene glycol; a non-polyol such as monohydric alcohols, acids such as lactic acid, glycerol derivatives, esters such as triacetin, triethylene glycol diacetate, triethyl citrate, glycerin or vegetable glycerin. In some embodiments, the aerosol generating agent may be glycerol, propylene glycol, or a mixture of glycerol and propylene glycol. The substrate may also comprise at least one of a gelling agent, a binding agent, a stabilizing agent, and a humectant.

[0121] Figure 1 shows an aerosol generating assembly 10 according to the invention. The aerosol generating assembly 10 comprises an aerosol generating device 12 and an aerosol generating article 1.

[0122] The aerosol generating device 12 is adapted to operate with the aerosol generating article 1 to generate aerosol. The aerosol generating device 12 comprises a main body 14 extending along a device axis A-A’ and defining a housing 16 arranged that axis A-A’.

[0123] The housing 16 comprises an outer wall 18, making up the external surface of the main body 14. The housing 16 further delimits an internal space 20 of the device 12 for receiving a heating unit 24, a substrate container 36, a combustion unit 42 and a delivery mechanism 62. In the embodiment shown in Fig.1 , the device 12 further comprises a temperature sensor 72 and a controller 76, as well as an exhaust unit 80, a heat conduction part 94 and an electrical energy source 98 such as a battery. Advantageously, the internal space 20 can receive other various elements designed to carry out different functionalities of the device 10. These elements are known as such and will not be disclosed in the further description.

[0124] The heating unit 24 comprises a heating chamber 26 adapted to receive at least partially the aerosol generating article 1 to heat it. In particular, the heating chamber 26 is configured for heating an aerosol generating substrate of an aerosol generating part 3 of the aerosol generating article 1 for generating an aerosol from the aerosol generating substrate but without combustion thereof.. For example, the heating chamber 26 is adapted to heat the aerosol generating substrate at a temperature of between 250°C and 350°C. Advantageously, the heating chamber 26 is delimited by a housing 28 comprising a bottom wall 30 and a tubular wall 32 extending from the bottom wall 30 substantially parallel to the device axis A-A’. In particular, the housing 28 of the heating chamber 26 is arranged at a first end 16A of the housing 16 of the main body 14 with respect to the device axis A-A’.

[0125] The substrate container 36 comprises a charcoal-based substrate 38. The charcoalbased substrate 38 comprises charcoal powder. Advantageously, the substrate container 36 is arranged at a second end 16B of the housing 16 of the main body 14 with respect to the device axis A-A’, which is opposite the first end 16A. For example, the substrate container 36 is permanently mounted onto the main body 14. In this case, the substrate container 36 is refillable with charcoal-based substrate 38. In a variant, the substrate container 36 is removably mounted onto the main body 14. In this case, the substrate container 36, when depleted, can be replaced by another substrate container 36.

[0126] The combustion unit 42 comprises a combustion chamber 44 adapted to combust the charcoal-based substrate 38 to heat the heating chamber 26. Advantageously, the combustion unit 42 further comprises an ignitor 46 arranged at least partially within the combustion chamber 44 and adapted to ignite the charcoal-based substrate 38. For example, the ignitor 46 comprises an electrical wire, a plasma ignition element, an arc ignition element and / or a laser. In particular, the ignitor 46 is powered by the electrical energy source 98. As shown on the example of Figure 1 , the combustion chamber 44 is delimited by a housing 48. For example, said housing 48 comprises a tubular lateral wall 50 extending substantially parallel to the device axis A-A’ as well as a bottom transversal wall 52 and a top transversal wall 54 extending at both ends of the tubular lateral wall 50. Said housing 48 comprises at least an inlet 56 designed to be in fluidic communication with the substrate container 36 and at least an outlet 58 designed to be in fluidic communication with the exhaust unit 80. For instance, the inlet 56 is delimited by the bottom transversal wall 52 and the at least one outlet 58 is delimited by the tubular lateral wall 50. In particular, the housing 48 comprises a plurality of outlets 58 angularly distributed around the device axis A- A’.

[0127] The delivery mechanism 62 is adapted to deliver the charcoal-based substrate 38 from the substrate container 36 to the combustion chamber 44. For instance, the delivery mechanism 62 is adapted to deliver the charcoal-based substrate 38 to the combustion chamber 44 at a predetermined flowrate. In a variant, the delivery mechanism 62 is configured for delivering the charcoal-based substrate 38 to the combustion chamber 44 at an adapted flowrate depending on a temperature measured by the temperature sensor 72.

[0128] The temperature sensor 72 is configured for measuring the temperature within the heating chamber 26.

[0129] The controller 76 is configured for controlling the delivery mechanism 62 based on the temperature measured by the temperature sensor 72.

[0130] The exhaust unit 80 is adapted to release exhaust gases generated within the combustion chamber 44 outside of the device 12. The exhaust unit 80 comprises an exhaust inlet 82 in fluidic communication with the combustion chamber 44, an exhaust outlet 84 in fluidic communication with the atmosphere surrounding the device 12, and at least a conduit 86 fluidically connecting the exhaust inlet 82 and the exhaust outlet 84. In particular, the exhaust inlet 82 and the outlet 58 of the combustion chamber 44 are the same. For example, the exhaust unit 80 further comprises at least a filter 88 for filtering the exhaust gases. For instance, the exhaust unit 80 further comprises at least a catalytic converter 90 for treating the exhaust gases.

[0131] The heat conduction part 94 is configured for conducting heat generated by the combustion unit 42 to the heating chamber 26 of the heating unit 24. Advantageously, the heat conduction part 94 presents a heat flux greater than 1000 W / m2.

[0132] Advantageously, the electric energy source 98 is configured to power at least the ignitor 46. For example, the electric energy source 98 is further configured to power the temperature sensor 72 and the controller 76. Advantageously, the electric energy source 98 is further configured to power some or all of the various electronic elements of the device 10.

[0133] In reference to Figure 1 , the aerosol generating article 1 has a cylindrical shape, the base of the corresponding cylinder being for example circular, oval, square, rectangular, triangular, etc. The aerosol generating article 1 substantially extends along an article axis B- B’. The aerosol generating article 1 comprises a proximal end 1A and a distal end 1 B opposite the proximal end 1A with regards to the article axis B-B’.

[0134] The aerosol generating article 1 comprises an aerosol generating part 3. Advantageously, the aerosol generating article 1 further comprises a mouthpiece portion 5. For example, the aerosol generating part 3 and if applicable the mouthpiece portion 5 are arranged successively along the article axis B-B’, from the proximal end 1A to the distal end 1 B. As shown in the figures, a tubular intermediate section 4 may be arranged between the aerosol generating part 3 and mouthpiece 5, to allow cooling and condensation of aerosol droplets generated from the aerosol generating material in the aerosol generating part 3 upon heating such that they can be inhaled by a user through the mouthpiece 5. In addition, the proximal end 1A of the aerosol generating article 1 may comprise, in particular embodiments, a terminal plug of air permeable material such as cellulose acetate or paper to avoid release of aerosol generating material from the aerosol generating part 3 through the proximal end 1A in the device 1 in use.

[0135] The aerosol generating part 3 comprises an aerosol generating substrate, as defined above.

[0136] The mouthpiece portion 5 is adapted to be used by a user to draw the aerosol generated by heating of the aerosol generating substrate by the heating chamber 26.

[0137] In the following, several alternative embodiments of the invention are described with respect to Figures 2 to 10. Unless explicitly said otherwise, it is to be understood that the following embodiments present the same features as those described above with respect to Figure 1. In the following, for the i-th embodiment, the element referenced iXX (XX being two digits) is the same as the one referenced XX above. Thus, in the first embodiment, for example, the substrate container 136 corresponds to the substrate container 36 described above unless explicitly said otherwise. In the second embodiment, for example, the substrate container 236 corresponds to the substrate container 36 described above unless explicitly said otherwise. In Figures 2 to 10, elements such as the temperature sensor 72, the controller 76, the exhaust unit 80, the heat conduction part 94 and / or the electrical energy source 98 may be omitted for the sake of conciseness.

[0138] In the first, second, third, fourth and fifth embodiments, the charcoal powder is formed by particles of charcoal having a size ranging between 50 pm and 1 mm. In particular, in these embodiments, the charcoal-based substrate 38 is made up of a granular material, said granular material comprising the charcoal powder. Preferably, in these embodiments, the charcoal-based substrate consists of charcoal powder. By “the charcoal-based substrate consists of charcoal powder”, it is meant that the charcoal-based substrate consists of powder with the following contents: more than 85 %w / w of carbon, more than 1 %w / w of hydrogen, more than 5 %w / w of water, more than 2 %w / w of oxygen.

[0139] In the sixth, seventh, eighth and ninth embodiments, the charcoal-based substrate 38 further comprises a solvent. The charcoal powder is suspended in the solvent. Advantageously, the solvent is flammable. Preferably, the solvent comprises an alcohol such as ethanol or isopropanol. In these embodiments, the charcoal powder is formed by particles of charcoal having a size ranging mainly between 10 pm and 100 pm, preferably between 50 pm and 100 pm.

[0140] FIRST ALTERNATIVE EMBODIMENT OF THE INVENTION

[0141] Figure 2 depicts a first alternative embodiment of the invention of an aerosol generating assembly 100 comprising the aerosol generating device 112 and the aerosol generating article 1.

[0142] In this embodiment, the delivery mechanism 162 comprises a mixing chamber 163 and a vortex generator 164. Advantageously, the delivery mechanism 162 further comprises a breaking mechanism 167 and a filter 168.

[0143] The mixing chamber 163 fluidically connecting the combustion chamber 144 and the substrate container 136. For example, as shown on Figure 2, the mixing chamber 163 is tubular and extends according to an axis substantially perpendicular to the device axis A- A’. The vortex generator 164 is configured to create negative pressure in the mixing chamber 163 to draw the charcoal-based substrate 138 from the substrate container 136 and blowing it into the combustion chamber 144. In particular, the vortex generator 164 is configured for blowing air tangentially in the mixing chamber 163 towards an inlet 165 of the mixing chamber 163 which is fluidically connected to the substrate container 136. A negative pressure is generated at the inlet 165 and charcoal-based substrate 138 is sucked in the mixing chamber 163 via the inlet 165. The blown air flows circularly into the mixing chamber 163 around the axis of the mixing chamber 163 and transports the charcoal-based substrate 138 at an outlet 166 of the mixing chamber 163 which is connected to the combustion chamber 144. For example, the vortex generator 164 is powered by the electrical energy source. Advantageously, the vortex generator 164 is configured for being controlled by the controller.

[0144] The breaking mechanism 167 is configured for breaking down the charcoal-based substrate 1338 within the mixing chamber 163 into particles. In particular, the breaking mechanism 167 is configured for reducing the size of the charcoal powder. For instance, the breaking mechanism 167 is arranged into the mixing chamber 163.

[0145] The filter 168 is arranged between the mixing chamber 163 and the combustion chamber 144. For example, the filter 168 is arranged in the outlet 166 of the mixing chamber 163. The filter 168 is configured for authorizing the transfer of particles of charcoal-based substrate 138 of diameter below or equal to a predetermined diameter from the mixing chamber 163 to the combustion chamber 144 and preventing the transfer of particles of charcoal-based substrate 138 of diameter above the predetermined diameter from the mixing chamber 163 to the combustion chamber 144.

[0146] In this embodiment, the ignitor 146 is arranged at the inlet 156 of the combustion chamber 144 which is fluidically connected to the mixing chamber 163.

[0147] SECOND ALTERNATIVE EMBODIMENT OF THE INVENTION

[0148] Figure 3 depicts a second alternative embodiment of the invention of an aerosol generating assembly 200 comprising the aerosol generating device 212 and the aerosol generating article 1. In this embodiment, the delivery mechanism 262 comprises an auger screw 263 and a motor 264. Advantageously, the delivery mechanism 262 further comprises at least a guiding element 265.

[0149] The auger screw 263 extends from the substrate container 236 to the combustion chamber 244 along an axis of rotation R1. For instance, the axis of rotation R1 is substantially parallel to the device axis A-A’, in particular coaxial with the device axis A-A’. For example, the auger screw 263 extends from a bottom wall 239A of the substrate container 236 to an outlet 240 of the substrate container 236 which is fluidically connected to the combustion chamber 244. The auger screw 263 is configured for moving the charcoalbased substrate 238 from the substrate container 236 to the combustion chamber 244 along the axis of rotation R1.

[0150] The motor 264 is configured for driving the auger screw 263 in rotation about the axis of rotation R1. Advantageously, the motor 264 is configured for being controlled by the controller. For example, the motor 264 is powered by the electrical energy source.

[0151] The at least one guiding element 265 is adapted to guide the charcoal-based substrate 238 towards the auger screw 263. For example, the at least one guide element 265 is a conical or frusto-conical surface extending according to the axis of rotation R1 and configured for guiding the charcoal-based substrate 238 toward the axis of rotation R1 .

[0152] In this embodiment, the ignitor 246 is arranged at the inlet 256 of the combustion chamber 244 which is fluidically connected to the substrate container 236.

[0153] THIRD ALTERNATIVE EMBODIMENT OF THE INVENTION

[0154] Figure 4 depicts a third alternative embodiment of the invention of an aerosol generating assembly 300 comprising the aerosol generating device 312 and the aerosol generating article 1.

[0155] In this embodiment, the delivery mechanism 362 comprises a compressed air source 363.

[0156] The compressed air source 363 is adapted to create a venturi effect at an inlet 356 of the combustion chamber 344 connected to the substrate container 336 to draw the charcoal-based substrate 338 from the substrate container 336 into the combustion chamber 344. For instance, the compressed air source 363 is further adapted to blow the compressed air into the substrate container 336 to generate a fluidized bed of charcoalbased substrate 338 within the substrate container 336. Advantageously, the compressed air source 363 is powered by the electrical energy source and is configured for being controlled by the controller.

[0157] In this embodiment, the housing 348 of the combustion unit 342 comprises an annular rib 364 extending from an inner surface 365 of the tubular lateral wall 350 in front of an inlet 366 which is in fluidic communication with the compressed air source 363. The annular rib 364 forms a bottleneck within the combustion chamber 344, which participates to the generation of the venturi effect. Furthermore, the annular rib 364 comprises at least a through-hole 367 extending radially and which is in fluidic communication with the substrate container 336. This through-hole 367 forms the inlet 356 which is in fluidic communication with the substrate container 336.

[0158] In this embodiment, the ignitor 346 is arranged at the inlet 356 of the combustion chamber 344 which is fluidically connected to the substrate container 336, in particular around the annular rib 364.

[0159] Advantageously, in this embodiment, a solenoid valve (not shown) is configured for controlling the flow rate of compressed air blown into the combustion chamber 344, for example based on temperature measured within the combustion chamber 344.

[0160] FOURTH ALTERNATIVE EMBODIMENT OF THE INVENTION

[0161] Figure 5 depicts a fourth alternative embodiment of the invention of an aerosol generating assembly 400 comprising the aerosol generating device 412 and the aerosol generating article 1.

[0162] In this embodiment, the delivery mechanism 462 comprises a first pair of electrodes 463 and a second pair of electrodes 465.

[0163] The first pair of electrodes 463 is configured for generating a first electric field within the substrate container 436 to polarize the charcoal-based substrate 438. For example, the electrodes 463 of the first pair are arranged in opposite lateral walls of the substrate container 436 in the case wherein the housing of the substrate container 436 is substantially parallelepiped or in opposite portions of a lateral tubular wall 464 of the substrate container 436 in the case wherein the housing of the substrate container 436 is substantially cylindrical.

[0164] The second pair of electrodes 465 is configured for generating a second electric field at an outlet 466 of the substrate container 436 connected to the inlet 456 of the combustion chamber 444, so that the polarized charcoal-based substrate 438 moves into the combustion chamber 444 by dielectrophoresis effect due to the second electric field. In particular, the electrodes 465 of the second pair are arranged in a wall of a conduit 467 delimiting a passageway 468 for the charcoal-based substrate 438 between the substrate container 436 and the combustion chamber 444. For example, the passageway 468 extends substantially parallel to the device axis A-A’. In particular, the electrodes 465 of the second pair are arranged in opposite portions of the wall 467 in a radial direction extending substantially perpendicular to the device axis A-A’.

[0165] Advantageously, the electrodes 463, 465 are powered by the electrical energy source and are configured for being controlled by the controller.

[0166] In this embodiment, the ignitor 446 is arranged at the inlet 456 of the combustion chamber 444 which is fluidically connected to the passageway 468.

[0167] FIFTH ALTERNATIVE EMBODIMENT OF THE INVENTION

[0168] Figure 6 depicts a fifth alternative embodiment of the invention of an aerosol generating assembly 500 comprising the aerosol generating device 512 and the aerosol generating article 1 is described with reference to Figure 6. Three variants A, B and C of the fifth embodiment are illustrated on Figure 6.

[0169] In this embodiment, the delivery mechanism 562 comprises a first pair of electrodes 563 and at least an other electrode 565. In particular, the delivery mechanism 562 comprises a first pair of electrodes 563 and a second pair of electrodes 565.

[0170] The first pair of electrodes 563 is configured for generating a first electric field within the substrate container 536 to polarize the charcoal-based substrate 538. For example, the electrodes 563 of the first pair are arranged in opposite lateral walls of the substrate container 536 in the case wherein the housing of the substrate container 536 is substantially parallelepiped or in opposite portions of a lateral tubular wall 564 of the substrate container 536 in the case wherein the housing of the substrate container 536 is substantially cylindrical.

[0171] The at least one other electrode 565 is configured for being charged to attract the polarized charcoal-based substrate 538 within the combustion chamber 544. In particular, the second pair of electrodes 565 is configured to generate a second electric field coercing the polarized charcoal-based substrate 538 toward the combustion chamber 544. In the three examples illustrates on Figure 6, the second pair of electrodes 565 comprises a distal electrode 565A arranged onto a distal wall 554A of the combustion unit 542, the distal wall 554A of the combustion unit 542 being arranged opposite to an inlet 556 of the combustion chamber 544 across the combustion chamber 544, in particular with respect to the device axis A-A’. In these examples, advantageously, the second pair of electrodes 565 further comprises a proximal electrode 565B arranged onto the substrate container 536. In particular, in the left-hand side example A of Figure 6, the proximal electrode 565B is arranged onto a bottom 539 of the substrate container 536 arranged at an end 540 of the substrate container 536 opposite to the outlet 566 of the substrate container 536 connected to the combustion chamber 544. In the example B illustrated in the middle of Figure 6, the proximal electrode 565B is arranged across a passageway 568 connecting the substrate container 536 and the combustion chamber 544. Advantageously, in this case, the proximal electrode 565B is perforated to allow the charcoal-based substrate 538 to flow through the passageway 568. In the right-hand side example C of Figure 6, the proximal electrode 565B is arranged on a peripheral surface 569 delimiting the passageway 568 connecting the substrate container 536 and the combustion chamber 544.

[0172] Advantageously, the electrodes 563, 565 are powered by the electrical energy source and are configured for being controlled by the controller.

[0173] Advantageously, in this embodiment, the ignitor 546 is arranged onto the distal wall 554A of the combustion unit 542.

[0174] In a variant of this embodiment, instead of the second pair of electrodes 565, the delivery mechanism 562 comprises an electric generator configured for applying a charge to the combustion chamber 544, in particular to the walls 550, 552, 554 of the combustion chamber 544 so that the polarized charcoal-based substrate 538 is attracted by the combustion chamber 544.

[0175] SIXTH ALTERNATIVE EMBODIMENT OF THE INVENTION

[0176] Figure 7 depicts a sixth alternative embodiment of the invention of an aerosol generating assembly 600 comprising the aerosol generating device 612 and the aerosol generating article 1.

[0177] In this embodiment, the delivery mechanism 662 further comprises a hydraulic actuator 663 and an atomizer nozzle 665.

[0178] The hydraulic actuator 663 is configured for drawing charcoal-based substrate 638 from within the substrate container 636 and providing the drawn charcoal-based substrate 638 to the atomizer nozzle 665. For instance, in the example of Figure 7, the hydraulic actuator 663 comprises a diaphragm pump. The diaphragm pump is for example arranged at the outlet 664 of the substrate container 636. Advantageously, the hydraulic actuator 663 is powered by the electrical energy source and is configured for being controlled by the controller.

[0179] The atomizer nozzle 665 is configured for atomizing the charcoal-based substrate 638 provided by the hydraulic actuator 663 and dispense the atomized charcoal-based substrate 638 within the combustion chamber 644. For example, the atomizer nozzle 665 is arranged in a passageway 666 fluidically connecting the substrate container 636 and the combustion chamber 644.

[0180] In this embodiment, the ignitor 646 is advantageously arranged around the atomizer nozzle 665.

[0181] SEVENTH ALTERNATIVE EMBODIMENT OF THE INVENTION

[0182] Figure 8 depicts a seventh alternative embodiment of the invention of an aerosol generating assembly 700 comprising the aerosol generating device 712 and the aerosol generating article 1.

[0183] For example, in this embodiment, the substrate container 736 is pressurised. In this embodiment, the delivery mechanism 762 further comprises a hydraulic actuator 763 and an atomizer nozzle 765. Advantageously, the delivery mechanism 762 further comprises a solenoid actuator 767 configured for controlling the atomizer nozzle 765.

[0184] The hydraulic actuator 763 is configured for drawing charcoal-based substrate 738 from within the substrate container 736 and providing the drawn charcoal-based substrate 738 to the atomizer nozzle 765. For instance, in the example of Figure 8, the hydraulic actuator 763 comprises a metering valve. The metering valve is for example arranged at the outlet 764 of the substrate container 736.

[0185] The atomizer nozzle 765 is configured for atomizing the charcoal-based substrate 738 provided by the hydraulic actuator 763 and dispense the atomized charcoal-based substrate 738 within the combustion chamber 744. For example, the atomizer nozzle 765 is arranged in a passageway 766 fluidically connecting the substrate container 736 and the combustion chamber 744.

[0186] The solenoid actuator 767 is configured for controlling the metering valve. The solenoid actuator 767 is advantageously arranged at an end 768 of the substrate container 736 which is opposite to another end 769 of the substrate container 736 connected to the combustion chamber 744. In particular, the solenoid actuator 767 is powered by the electrical energy source and is configured for being controlled by the controller. For example, the solenoid actuator 767 is configured for actuating the metering valve in pulses and / or periodically. This makes it possible to better control the rate of injection of charcoalbased substrate 738 within the combustion chamber 744.

[0187] In this embodiment, the ignitor 746 is advantageously arranged around the atomizer nozzle 765.

[0188] EIGHTH ALTERNATIVE EMBODIMENT OF THE INVENTION

[0189] Figure 9 depicts an eighth alternative embodiment of the invention relating to an aerosol generating assembly 800 comprising the aerosol generating device 812 and the aerosol generating article 1 . In this embodiment, the delivery mechanism 862 further comprises a nebulizer 863 formed by a vibrating mesh.

[0190] The nebulizer 863 is configured for drawing charcoal-based substrate 838 from within the substrate container 836 and is configured generating a mist of charcoal-based substrate 838 within the combustion chamber 844. For instance, in the example of Figure 9, the nebulizer 863 is arranged at the outlet 864 of the substrate container 836. Advantageously, the nebulizer 863 is powered by the electrical energy source and is controlled by the controller.

[0191] In this embodiment, the ignitor 846 is advantageously arranged around the inlet 856 of the combustion chamber 844.

[0192] NINTH ALTERNATIVE EMBODIMENT OF THE INVENTION

[0193] Figure 10 relates to a ninth embodiment of the invention of an aerosol generating assembly 900 comprising the aerosol generating device 912 and the aerosol generating article 1.

[0194] In this embodiment, the delivery mechanism 962 further comprises a compressed air source 963 configured for creating a vacuum within the combustion chamber 944 to draw the charcoal-based substrate 938 from the substrate container 936 into the combustion chamber 944. Advantageously, the delivery mechanism 962 further comprises an electronic valve 964. By using a compressed air source 963, it is possible to generate a significant flow rate of charcoal-based substrate 938 into the combustion chamber 944. Furthermore, the injection of compressed air into the combustion chamber 944 makes it possible to enhance the burning efficiency and ensures that the exhaust gases are discharged effectively.

[0195] For example, the compressed air source 963 is arranged laterally next to the substrate container 936. Advantageously, the compressed air source 963 is powered by the electrical energy source and is controlled by the controller.

[0196] The electronic valve 964 is configured for opening or closing the outlet 965 of the substrate container 936 connected with the combustion chamber 944. In this embodiment, the ignitor 946 is advantageously arranged around the inlet 956 of the combustion chamber 944, which is fluidically connected to the substrate container 936.

Claims

CLAIMS1. An aerosol generating device (12; 112; ; 912) adapted to operate with an aerosol generating article (1) and comprising:- a heating unit (24) comprising a heating chamber (26) adapted to receive at least partially the aerosol generating article (1) to heat it;- a substrate container (36; 136; ... .; 936) comprising a charcoal-based substrate (38; 138; ... ; 938);- a combustion unit (42; 142; ...942) comprising a combustion chamber (44; 144; ... ; 944) adapted to combust the charcoal-based substrate (38; 138; ... ; 938) to heat the heating chamber (26);- a delivery mechanism (62; 162; ... ; 962) adapted to deliver the charcoal-based substrate (38; 138; ... ; 938) from the substrate container (36; 136; ....; 936) to the combustion chamber (44; 144; ... ; 944); wherein the charcoal-based substrate (38; 138; ... ; 938) comprises charcoal powder.

2. The aerosol generating device (12; 112; ... ; 912) according to claim 1 , wherein the combustion unit (42; 142; ...942) comprises an ignitor (46; 146; ... ; 946) arranged at least partially within the combustion chamber (44; 144; ... ; 944) and adapted to ignite the charcoal-based substrate (38; 138; ... ; 938).

3. The aerosol generating device (12; 112; ... ; 912) according to claim 2, wherein the ignitor (46; 146; ... ; 946) comprises an electrical wire, a plasma ignition element, an arc ignition element and / or a laser.

4. The aerosol generating device (12; 112; ... ; 912) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the delivery mechanism (62; 162; ... ; 962) is adapted to deliver the charcoal-based substrate (38; 138; ... ; 938) to the combustion chamber (44; 144; ... ; 944) at a predetermined flowrate.

5. The aerosol generating device (12; 112; ... ; 912) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the aerosol generating device (12; 112; ... ; 912) further comprises:- a temperature sensor (72) configured for measuring the temperature within the heating chamber (26);- a controller (76) configured for controlling the delivery mechanism (62; 162; ... ; 962) so that the delivery mechanism (62; 162; ... ; 962) delivers the charcoal-based substrate(38; 138; ... ; 938) to the combustion chamber (44; 144; ... ; 944) at an adapted flowrate depending on the temperature measured by the temperature sensor (72).

6. The aerosol generating device (12; 112; ... ; 912) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the aerosol generating device (12; 112; ... ; 912) further comprises an exhaust unit (80) adapted to release exhaust gases generated within the combustion chamber (44; 144; ... ; 944) outside of the device, and comprising:- an exhaust inlet (82) in fluidic communication with the combustion chamber (44; 144; ... ; 944);- an exhaust outlet (84) in fluidic communication with the atmosphere surrounding the device;- at least a conduit (86) fluidically connecting the exhaust inlet (82) and the exhaust outlet (84).

7. The aerosol generating device (12; 112; ... ; 912) according to claim 6, wherein the exhaust unit (80) comprises at least a filter (88) for filtering the exhaust gases.

8. The aerosol generating device (12; 112; ... ; 912) according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the exhaust unit (80) comprises at least a catalytic converter (90) for treating the exhaust gases.

9. The aerosol generating device (12; 112; ... ; 912) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the aerosol generating device (12; 112; ... ; 912) comprises a main body (14) comprising the heating unit (24), the combustion chamber (44; 144; ... ; 944) and at least a part of the delivery mechanism (62; 162; ... ; 962), the substrate container (36; 136; ....; 936) being removably mounted onto the main body (14).

10. The aerosol generating device (12; 112; ... ; 912) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the aerosol generating device (12; 112; ... ; 912) comprises a main body (14) comprising the heating unit (24), the substrate container (36; 136; ....; 936), the combustion unit (42; 142; ...942) and the delivery mechanism (62; 162; ... ; 962), the substrate container (36; 136; ....; 936) being permanently mounted onto the main body (14).

11. The aerosol generating device (12; 112; ... ; 912) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the aerosol generating device (12; 112; ... ; 912) further comprises a heat conduction part (94) configured for conducting heat generated by thecombustion unit (42; 142; ...942) to the heating chamber (26) of the heating unit (24), the heat conduction part (94) presenting a heat flux greater than 1000 W / m212. The aerosol generating device (12; 112; ... ; 512) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the charcoal powder is formed by particles of charcoal having a size ranging between 50 pm and 1 mm.

13. The aerosol generating device (112) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the delivery mechanism (162) comprises:- a mixing chamber (163) fluidically connecting the combustion chamber (144) and the substrate container (136);- a vortex generator (164) configured to create a negative pressure in the mixing chamber (163) to draw the charcoal-based substrate (138) from the substrate container (136) and blowing it into the combustion chamber (144).

14. The aerosol generating device (112) according to claim 13, wherein the delivery mechanism (162) further comprises:- a breaking mechanism (167) configured for breaking down the charcoal-based substrate (138) within the mixing chamber (163) into particles;- a filter (168) arranged between the mixing chamber (163) and the combustion chamber (144), the filter (168) being configured for :- authorizing the transfer of particles of charcoal-based substrate (138) of diameter below or equal to a predetermined diameter from the mixing chamber (163) to the combustion chamber (144); and- preventing the transfer of particles of charcoal-based substrate (138) of diameter above the predetermined diameter from the mixing chamber (163) to the combustion chamber (144).

15. The aerosol generating device (212) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the delivery mechanism (262) comprises:- an auger screw (263) extending from the substrate container (236) to the combustion chamber (244) along an axis of rotation (R1), configured for moving the charcoal-based substrate (238) from the substrate container (236) to the combustion chamber (244) along the axis of rotation (R1);- a motor (264) configured for driving the auger screw (263) in rotation about the axis of rotation (R1).

16. The aerosol generating device (212) according to claim 15, wherein the substrate container (236) comprises at least a guiding element (265) adapted to guide the charcoalbased substrate (238) towards the auger screw (263).

17. The aerosol generating device (312) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the delivery mechanism (362) further comprises a compressed air source (363) adapted to create a venturi effect at an inlet (356) of the combustion chamber (344) connected to the substrate container (336) to draw the charcoal-based substrate (338) from the substrate container (336) into the combustion chamber (344).

18. The aerosol generating device (312) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the delivery mechanism (362) further comprises a compressed air source (363) adapted to blow the compressed air into the substrate container (336) to generate a fluidized bed of charcoal-based substrate (338) within the substrate container (336).

19. The aerosol generating device (412) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the delivery mechanism (462) further comprises:- a first pair of electrodes (463) configured for generating a first electric field within the substrate container (436) to polarize the charcoal-based substrate (438); and- a second pair of electrodes (465) configured for generating a second electric field at an outlet (466) of the substrate container (436) connected to an inlet (456) of the combustion chamber (444), so that the polarized charcoal-based substrate (438) moves into the combustion chamber (444) by dielectrophoresis effect due to the second electric field.

20. The aerosol generating device (512) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the delivery mechanism (562) further comprises:- a first pair of electrodes (563) configured for generating a first electric field within the substrate container (536) to polarize the charcoal-based substrate (538); and- at least an other electrode (565) arranged at a distal end of the combustion chamber (544) with regard to the substrate container (536), the at least one other electrode (565) being configured for being charged to attract the polarized charcoal-based substrate (538) within the combustion chamber (544).

21. The aerosol generating device (512) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the delivery mechanism (562) further comprises:- a first pair of electrodes (563) configured for generating a first electric field within the substrate container (536) to polarize the charcoal-based substrate (538); and- a second pair of electrodes (565) configured to generate a second electric field coercing the polarized charcoal-based substrate (538) toward the combustion chamber (544).

22. The aerosol generating device (512) according to claim 21 , wherein the second pair of electrodes (565) comprises a distal electrode (565A) arranged onto a distal wall (554A) of the combustion unit (542), the distal wall (554A) of the combustion unit (542) being arranged opposite to an inlet (556) of the combustion chamber (544) across the combustion chamber (544).

23. The aerosol generating device (512) according to claim 21 , wherein the second pair of electrodes (565) further comprises a proximal electrode (565B) arranged onto the substrate container (536).

24. The aerosol generating device (512) according to claim 23, wherein the proximal electrode (565B) is arranged onto a bottom (539) of the substrate container (536) arranged at an end of the substrate container (536) opposite to the outlet (566) of the substrate container (536) connected to the combustion chamber (544).

25. The aerosol generating device (512) according to claim 23, wherein the proximal electrode (565B) is arranged across a passageway (568) connecting the substrate container (536) and the combustion chamber (544).

26. The aerosol generating device (512) according to claim 25, wherein the proximal electrode (565B) is perforated to allow the charcoal-based substrate (538) to flow through the passageway (568).

27. The aerosol generating device (512) according to claim 23, wherein the proximal electrode (565B) is arranged on a peripheral surface (569) delimiting a passageway (568) connecting the substrate container (536) and the combustion chamber (544).

28. The aerosol generating device (512) according to any one of claims 22 to 27 when taken in combination with claim 2 or 3, wherein the ignitor (546) is arranged onto the distal wall (554A) of the combustion unit (542).

29. The aerosol generating device (512) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the delivery mechanism (562) further comprises:- a first pair of electrodes (563) configured for generating a first electric field within the substrate container (536) to polarize the charcoal-based substrate (538);- an electric generator configured for applying a charge to the combustion chamber (544) so that the polarized charcoal-based substrate (538) is attracted by the combustion chamber (544).

30. The aerosol generating device (612; 712; 812; 912) according to any one of claims 1 to 11 , wherein the charcoal-based substrate (638; 738; 838; 938) further comprises a solvent, the charcoal powder being suspended in the solvent, the solvent preferably comprising an alcohol such as ethanol or isopropanol.31 . The aerosol generating device (612; 712; 812; 912) according to claim 30, wherein the charcoal powder is formed by particles of charcoal having a size ranging mainly between 10 pm and 100 pm, preferably between 50 pm and 100 pm.

32. The aerosol generating device (612; 712) according to claim 30 or 31 , wherein the delivery mechanism (662; 762) further comprises:- a hydraulic actuator (663; 763) configured for drawing charcoal-based substrate (638; 738) from within the substrate container (636; 736) and providing the drawn charcoalbased substrate (638; 738) to an atomizer nozzle (665; 765);- the atomizer nozzle (665; 765) configured for atomizing the charcoal-based substrate (638; 738) provided by the hydraulic actuator (663; 763).

33. The aerosol generating device (612) according to claim 32, wherein the hydraulic actuator (663) comprises a diaphragm pump.

34. The aerosol generating device (712) according to claim 32, wherein the hydraulic actuator (763) comprises a metering valve.

35. The aerosol generating device (712) according to claim 34, wherein the delivery mechanism (762) further comprises a solenoid actuator (767) configured for controlling the metering valve.

36. The aerosol generating device (712) according to claim 35, wherein the solenoid actuator (767) is arranged at an end (768) of the substrate container (736) which is opposite to an other end (769) of the substrate container (736) connected to the combustion chamber (744).

37. The aerosol generating device (812) according to claim 30 or 31 , wherein the delivery mechanism (862) further comprises a nebulizer (863) formed by a vibrating mesh.

38. The aerosol generating device (912) according to claim 30 or 31 , wherein the delivery mechanism (962) further comprises a compressed air source (963) configured for creating a vacuum within the combustion chamber (944) to draw the charcoal-based substrate (938) from the substrate container (936) into the combustion chamber (944).

39. The aerosol generating device (912) according to claim 38, wherein the delivery mechanism (962) further comprises an electronic valve (964) configured for opening or closing an outlet (965) of the substrate container (936) connected with the combustion chamber (944).

40. An aerosol generating assembly (10) comprising:- an aerosol generating article (1);- an aerosol generating device (12) according to any one of the preceding claims, the aerosol generating device (12) being adapted to operate with the aerosol generating article (1).

Images