Replaceable Cartridge Capillary for Orientation-Independent Liquid Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing replaceable cartridges for aerosolizing liquid agents suffer from inefficient liquid consumption, potential production of harmful constituents, and orientation-dependent liquid transfer.
Innovation Solution
A replaceable cartridge design featuring a capillary with a constant cross-sectional surface area along its longitudinal length, ensuring reliable and orientation-independent liquid transport, and minimizing contact between the wicking element and aerosolization elements to reduce harmful constituent formation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If a wicking element is used to retain liquid agent, then the cartridge can store more liquid, but the liquid transfer becomes dependent on correct cartridge orientation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the wicking element (mechanical capillary action system) with a gravity-fed liquid outlet system. The liquid outlet is positioned at the lowest point of the cartridge, allowing liquid to flow out under gravity regardless of cartridge orientation, thereby eliminating orientation dependency while maintaining storage capacity
Solution Approach 2:
The cartridge is divided into distinct functional zones: a liquid storage chamber, a gravity-fed liquid outlet at the lowest point, and a separate aerosolization chamber. This segmentation allows the liquid outlet to be optimally positioned for gravity-driven flow independent of overall cartridge orientation
2Productivity
If the wicking element is in close contact with the aerosolization element, then liquid delivery is efficient, but harmful constituents are produced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the wicking element from direct contact with the aerosolization element. Instead, liquid is delivered through a dedicated liquid outlet that directs liquid to the aerosolization element without requiring close contact between the wicking element and aerosolization element, thereby eliminating harmful constituent formation while maintaining efficient liquid delivery
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary liquid outlet channel that separates the liquid storage/wicking system from the aerosolization element. This intermediary pathway allows liquid to be transported to the aerosolization element without the wicking element being in direct contact with it, preventing harmful chemical interactions
3Productivity
If the capillary cross-section varies along its length, then liquid flow can be optimized, but reliable liquid transfer becomes difficult to ensure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by having the capillary cross-section vary only in specific regions where needed for flow optimization, while maintaining a constant cross-section in other regions to ensure reliable liquid transfer. The capillary is designed with different cross-sectional areas in different segments to balance flow rate and transfer consistency
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The cartridge achieves efficient consumption of the liquid agent, reduces the formation of harmful constituents, and ensures reliable liquid transfer regardless of cartridge orientation.
Implementation Method 1
a capillary being in fluid communication with the liquid storage portion and the liquid outlet
Data Source
AI summary
A replaceable cartridge detachably connectable to an aerosol-generating device is provided, the cartridge including: a liquid storage portion to store a liquid agent and including a liquid outlet; and a capillary in fluid communication with the storage portion and the liquid outlet and having a cross-section and a longitudinal length, a surface of the cross-section remaining constant along at least a part of the longitudinal length, the storage portion including a first wall with a first inner surface and a second wall with a second inner surface, the capillary being formed between opposing first and second inner surfaces, the storage portion including an outer shell as the first wall and an inner shell as the second wall, the inner shell housed in the outer shell of the storage portion, the capillary located between the inner and the outer shell, and the liquid agent including at least one aerosol-former.