CN114901093A - Aerosol-generating device with ambient adaptation - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a cartridge (10) for an aerosol generating device. The cartridge includes a downstream end including a fluid outlet (22) and an upstream end including an air inlet (16). The cartridge also includes a liquid storage portion (12) disposed between the downstream end and the upstream end. The liquid storage portion includes a liquid sensing medium (14). The cartridge also includes a diffuser (20). The diffuser is arranged downstream of the air inlet. The invention also relates to kits and aerosol generating devices comprising at least two cartridges.

Description

Aerosol-generating device with ambient adaptation

technical field

The present invention relates to an aerosol generating device.

Background technique

Aerosol generating devices are known. One type of aerosol-generating device is an electronic cigarette. Electronic cigarettes typically use a liquid aerosol-forming substrate that is vaporized to form an aerosol. A "heat not burn" (HNB) device may heat one or more solid aerosol-forming substrates to a temperature that volatilizes one or more components of the aerosol-forming substrate without burning the solid aerosol-forming substrate. In addition, mixed aerosol generating devices having both a liquid aerosol forming function and an HNB function are known. These three devices, the liquid aerosol-forming device or electronic cigarette, the HNB device, and the mixing device are all aerosol-generating devices.

In an aerosol generating device, ambient air is drawn into the device to generate a respirable aerosol. Due to differences in the ambient air inhaled into the aerosol-generating device, environmental conditions (especially temperature and humidity) may affect the generated aerosols.

It is desirable to have an aerosol generating device with consistent aerosol generation. It is desirable to have an aerosol-generating device in which the effects of the conditions of ambient air inhaled in the aerosol-generating device are minimized or eliminated.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to an embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a cartridge for an aerosol-generating device. The cartridge may include a downstream end including a fluid outlet and an upstream end including an air inlet. The cartridge may also include a liquid storage portion disposed between the downstream end and the upstream end. The liquid storage portion may include a liquid sensing medium. The cartridge may also include a diffuser. The diffuser may be arranged downstream of the air inlet.

The diffuser can create air bubbles when air enters the cartridge via the air inlet. As the bubbles pass through the liquid storage portion of the cartridge, the liquid sensing medium may be entrained in the bubbles. The amount of liquid sensing medium entrained in the air flowing through the cartridge can be increased by providing a diffuser.

A diffuser can be attached to the air inlet. The diffuser may be fluidly attached to the air inlet. The diffuser may be fluidly connected with the air inlet. By attaching the diffuser in this way, the air in the suction cartridge can be completely drawn through the diffuser.

The diffuser may be arranged adjacent to the air inlet. Air drawn into the cartridge will flow through the diffuser according to this configuration of the diffuser.

The diffuser may be disc-shaped. The diffuser may be cushion-shaped. This shape of the diffuser can result in a lateral distribution of air through the diffuser. The lateral distribution of air can result in a large number of small bubbles of air being drawn and drawn through the liquid storage portion of the cartridge. The term "lateral" refers to the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the barrel.

The diffuser may include multiple fibers. The diffuser may include a plurality of voids. The voids can be arranged between the fibers. The diffuser may include a mesh. Fibers can form a web. The voids may be arranged between the fibers that make up the web. This shape of the diffuser can lead to the formation of air bubbles as air flows through the diffuser and into the liquid storage section.

The diffuser may be arranged within the liquid storage portion. The air inlet of the cartridge may be arranged in the outer limit of the liquid storage portion.

A fluid path may be established between the air inlet, the diffuser, the liquid storage portion and the fluid outlet.

The air inlet may be configured to enable ambient air to be drawn into the cartridge. The term "ambient air" refers to the air surrounding the cartridge. If the cartridge is received in an aerosol-generating device, as described in more detail below, "air environment" refers to the air surrounding the cartridge and the aerosol-generating device. Ambient air may be drawn into the cartridge by a user inhaling on an aerosol-generating device, such as a mouthpiece of an aerosol-generating device or an aerosol-generating article received in a cavity of an aerosol-generating device. As the user inhales on the aerosol-generating device, negative pressure can be created within the aerosol-generating device. This negative pressure can cause negative pressure to be applied to the air outlet of the cartridge. Therefore, air can be drawn through the cartridge. The air drawn through the cartridge may be ambient air entering the cartridge through the air inlet.

The fluid outlet may be configured to enable fluid to be aspirated from the cartridge. Primarily, ambient air drawn through the cartridge and enriched with liquid sensing medium will be drawn out of the fluid outlet.

The fluid outlet may include a one-way valve. Thus, fluid can be prevented from entering the cartridge through the fluid outlet. The one-way valve may be configured to open in response to a pressure drop in the top airflow passage, as described in more detail below. The one-way valve can prevent contamination of the liquid storage portion by preventing any residue from entering the liquid storage portion via the fluid outlet.

A one-way valve for the fluid outlet may protrude from the downstream end of the cartridge.

The one-way valve for the fluid outlet can be made of plastic, preferably EPDM or PEEK.

The air inlet may include a one-way valve. Thus, fluid can be prevented from leaving the cartridge through the fluid inlet. The one-way valve may open in response to a pressure drop in the liquid storage portion. The one-way valve can prevent leakage of liquid from the air inlet at the distal end of the cartridge.

The one-way valve of the air inlet may protrude from the upstream end.

The one-way valve for the air inlet can be made of plastic, preferably EPDM or PEEK.

The one-way valve of the fluid outlet may have a smaller diameter than the one-way valve of the air inlet. Thus, multiple cartridges can be stacked on top of each other. In more detail, the relatively large one-way valve of the air inlet of the canister may be placed on top of the relatively small one-way valve of the air outlet of the canister. In this way, at least two (preferably more than two) cartridges can be stacked on top of each other. Cartridges adhering on top of each other can result in ambient air being subsequently drawn through all of these cartridges. This embodiment may be beneficial if the user is using multiple cartridges at the same time. Potentially, this can increase the entrainment of the liquid sensing medium by ambient air drawn through the cartridge. Alternatively, different liquid sensing media may be provided in different cartridges. Combinations of different liquid sensing media can be entrained in ambient air drawn through the cartridges.

The diameter of the one-way valve of the fluid outlet may be between 0.75 mm and 7 mm, preferably between 1 mm and 5 mm, most preferably between 1.5 mm and 3 mm. The diameter of the one-way valve for the fluid outlet refers to the outer diameter.

The diameter of the one-way valve of the air inlet may be between 8 mm and 25 mm, preferably between 9 mm and 15 mm. The diameter of the check valve of the air inlet refers to the outer diameter.

Preferably, the diameter of the one-way valve of the fluid outlet corresponds to the inner diameter of the one-way valve of the fluid inlet. In this way, multiple cartridges can be stacked on top of each other by pushing the fluid outlet of one cartridge into the air inlet of the other cartridge. A connection can be made between the fluid outlet of one cartridge and the air inlet of the other cartridge. The connection may be a friction fit. Alternatively, the connection may be established by any known connection means.

The height of the barrel may be between 7 mm and 40 mm, preferably between 9 mm and 25 mm, most preferably between 11 mm and 21 mm.

The cartridge may include a housing.

The thickness of the shell may be between 0.25 mm and 2 mm, preferably between 0.3 mm and 1.5 mm, most preferably between 0.35 mm and 0.75 mm.

The housing may have double walls. The double wall prevents leakage of the liquid sensing medium from the liquid storage portion if the outer wall of the housing is damaged.

The housing may comprise transparent plastic or glass, preferably borosilicate glass. The housing may be at least partially opaque or transparent. The housing can be completely opaque or transparent. Preferably, the housing is transparent so that the user can see the liquid storage portion. The liquid storage portion may be transparent. Thus, the user can see what liquid sensing medium is contained in the liquid storage portion. In addition, the user can see the filling state of the liquid storage portion.

The opaque or transparent portion of the cartridge may be UV resistant. The opaque or transparent portion of the cartridge may include a UV resistant polymer. The opaque or transparent portion of the cartridge may include an anti-UV coating. UV resistance can increase the shelf life of the liquid sensing medium of the liquid storage portion.

The air inlet may be arranged in the housing. The air inlet can connect the outside environment with the interior of the liquid storage section. The fluid outlet may be arranged in the housing. The fluid outlet may connect the interior of the liquid storage portion with the external environment.

The cartridge may be cylindrical. The cartridge may have a circular cross-section. Alternatively, the barrel may be angled. The cartridge can have a square or rectangular cross-section.

The downstream end may include electrical connection means. The upstream end may include electrical connection means. Electrical connections may be provided between the downstream end electrical connection means and the upstream end electrical connection means. If the cartridge is received in an aerosol-generating device, as described in more detail below, electrical current can flow through the cartridge by means of the electrical connections and connections.

The liquid sensing medium may include flavoring agents. The liquid sensing medium may include nicotine. The liquid sensing medium may include water. If the cartridge is received in the aerosol-generating device, air drawn through the cartridge will be used for aerosol generation in the aerosol-generating device. The generated aerosol can be altered by the liquid sensing medium of the cartridge. Illustratively, the flavor of the generated aerosol can be altered by flavoring of the liquid sensing medium. Similarly, the nicotine content of the generated aerosol can be varied. The water of the liquid sensing medium can increase the humidity of the air used for aerosol generation. Water is a particularly preferred embodiment because more consistent aerosol generation can be achieved by providing water in the cartridge. Preferably, the liquid sensing medium may comprise water. In particular, if aerosol generation should be consistent in different environments, such as in dry and humid conditions, then providing a cartridge containing water can result in consistent humidity of the air inhaled by the pain, and subsequently used in the air Aerosol generation in a sol generation device. More consistent aerosol generation can be a result of this embodiment.

The present invention also relates to a kit comprising at least two cartridges as described herein.

The kit may include two or more cartridges connected in series. The series connection of the cartridges can be achieved by connecting the respective downstream ends of the cartridges with the respective upstream ends of the other cartridges. In particular, as described herein, the one-way valve of the cartridge may protrude from the corresponding end of the cartridge. These protruding one-way valves can be connected to each other. The one-way valve of the fluid outlet of one cartridge may be fluidly connected to the one-way valve of the air inlet of the other cartridge.

The kit may include two or more cartridges connected in parallel. In this embodiment, the cartridges may be arranged adjacent to each other. The cartridges may be arranged laterally adjacent to each other. If these cartridges are used in an aerosol-generating device, ambient air can be drawn in parallel through the cartridges at the same time.

The liquid sensing medium of one cartridge may be different from the liquid sensing medium of another cartridge. This embodiment is particularly preferred because the use of cartridges with different liquid sensing media gives the user the opportunity to alter the aerosol generated by the aerosol generating device in a desired manner. For example, a desired flavor can be combined with a desired nicotine content.

The liquid sensing medium of one cartridge may include one of nicotine, flavor, and water, and the liquid sensing medium of the other cartridge may include a different one of nicotine, flavor, and water.

As an alternative embodiment, instead of providing a kit comprising at least two separate cartridges, a single cartridge may be provided with at least two liquid storage portions.

The liquid storage portion of the cartridge may include two or more separate liquid storage compartments. Each of the liquid storage compartments may include a liquid that includes a liquid sensing medium. Each liquid storage compartment may contain the same liquid. Alternatively, at least one liquid storage compartment may comprise a different liquid composition than the liquid composition of the other liquid storage compartment. At least one liquid storage compartment may comprise a liquid sensing medium that is different from the liquid sensing medium of the other liquid storage compartment.

Each liquid storage compartment may have a separate compartment air inlet and a separate compartment liquid outlet. The cartridge may include means for individually opening and closing one or both of the compartment air inlet and the compartment liquid outlet.

The liquid storage portion may comprise two or more liquid storage compartments connected in series. The liquid storage portion may comprise two or more liquid storage compartments connected in series such that when the cartridge is attached to both the top portion and the main portion, the liquid storage portion is provided via the cartridge along the main airflow channel and the top airflow channel A continuous fluid connection from the main air inlet to the cavity, wherein the fluid connection is then provided by two or more serially connected liquid storage compartments of the liquid storage portion of the cartridge.

The liquid storage section may comprise two or more liquid storage compartments connected in parallel. The liquid storage portion may include two or more liquid storage compartments connected in parallel such that when the cartridge is attached to both the top portion and the main portion, the flow of the cartridge from the main air inlet through the cartridge is along the main air inlet and the top airflow channel. One of the parallel connected liquid storage compartments of the liquid storage section provides a continuous fluid connection to the cavity. Alternatively, the liquid storage section may comprise two or more liquid storage compartments connected in parallel such that when the cartridge is attached to both the top and main sections, the liquid passing through the cartridge along the main and top gas flow channels At least two of the parallel connected liquid storage compartments of the storage section provide a continuous fluid connection to the cavity.

The liquid storage portion may be configured such that a user may select among two or more liquid storage compartments connected in parallel to provide a fluid connection and participate in aerosol generation. Thus, the user can choose between different liquid sensing media stored in different parallel connected liquid storage compartments. Cartridges can be provided that can be used to generate different configurations of different types of aerosols.

Alternatively or additionally, aerosols can be generated that are altered by the superposition of different liquid sensing media from different liquid storage compartments. For example, different liquid sensing media including different flavoring agents can be used in different liquid storage compartments. Thus, a user can participate in aerosol generation by selecting a specific combination of liquid storage compartments to produce specific flavors combining different flavors.

The liquid storage portion of the cartridge may include parallel connected and series connected liquid storage compartments.

With liquid storage compartments connected in parallel, and alternatively or additionally connected in series, a variety of different types and configurations of cartridges can be selected.

With different types and configurations of cartridges, the user experience can be varied. With the different types and configurations of cartridges, the user experience can be varied by the user. With different types and configurations of cartridges, the user experience is easier to change. By means of different types and configurations of cartridges, the flavor of the generated aerosol can be varied. By means of different types and configurations of cartridges, the nicotine content of the generated aerosol can be varied.

As used herein, the term "liquid sensing medium" relates to a liquid composition capable of altering the gas flow in contact with the liquid sensing medium. The modification of the gas flow may be one or more of forming aerosol or vapor, cooling the gas flow, and filtering the gas flow. For example, a liquid sensing medium can include an aerosol-forming substrate capable of releasing a volatile compound that can form an aerosol or vapor. Preferably, the aerosol-forming matrix in the liquid sensing medium is or includes a flavoring agent. Alternatively or additionally, the liquid sensing medium may include one or both of a cooling substance for cooling the gas flow through the liquid sensing medium and a filter material for trapping unwanted components in the gas flow. Water can be used as a cooling substance. Water can be used as a filter substance for capturing particles, such as dust particles, from the air stream. Water can increase the humidity of the airflow. The liquid sensing medium can act as one or more of a nicotine providing liquid, flavor enhancer, and volume enhancer.

Each individual liquid storage portion compartment preferably includes a diffuser as described herein.

The present invention also relates to an aerosol generating device. The aerosol-generating device may include a cavity for receiving an aerosol-generating article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-generating device may be configured to removably receive a cartridge as described herein or a kit as described herein.

The aerosol-generating device may include a receiving area for receiving the cartridge. The receiving area is preferably arranged upstream of the cavity.

The aerosol-generating device may include a mouthpiece. The user can inhale the aerosol generated by the aerosol generating device on the mouthpiece. Alternatively, the user may draw directly on the aerosol-generating article inserted into the cavity.

The aerosol-generating device may include airflow channels. The airflow channel may start at the air inlet of the aerosol generating device. Downstream of the air inlet, the airflow channel may lead to the receiving area. If the cartridge is received in the receiving area, the airflow channel may fluidly connect the air inlet of the aerosol-generating device with the air inlet of the cartridge received in the receiving area. Subsequently, air can be drawn through a cartridge as described herein. The gas flow channel may extend downstream of the fluid outlet of the cartridge towards the cavity of the aerosol-generating device. In the cavity, air enriched with the liquid sensing medium of the cartridge can flow through the aerosol-generating article received in the cavity. The aerosol-generating device may include heating elements for heating the air in the chamber and the aerosol-generating article. Thus, the aerosol-forming substrate of the aerosol-generating article can be heated along with the air flowing from the airflow channel into the cavity. Aerosols can thus be generated and subsequently inhaled by the user.

The aerosol-generating device can be used with a cartridge attached to the aerosol-generating device and with an aerosol-generating article received in the cavity. Thus, the inhalable aerosol may contain a mixture of substances derived from both the liquid sensing medium, which consists of the liquid storage portion of the cartridge, and the aerosol-forming matrix, which consists of the aerosol-generating article.

The aerosol-generating device can be used with a cartridge attached to the aerosol-generating device, but not with an aerosol-generating article received in a cavity. Thus, the inhalable aerosol may contain only substances derived from the liquid sensing medium contained in the liquid storage portion of the cartridge.

The aerosol-generating device can be used without the cartridge attached to the aerosol-generating device, but with the aerosol-generating article received in the cavity. Thus, the inhalable aerosol may contain only substances derived from the aerosol-forming matrix contained in the aerosol-generating article.

The aerosol-generating device may be configured to removably attach the cartridge. Thus, the cartridge can be easily replaced by the user. The user can replace the emptied cartridge. The user can choose between different cartridges containing different liquids. Different cartridges can be color coded with different colors so that the user can easily distinguish between different liquids.

The cavity of the aerosol-generating device may have an open end into which the aerosol-generating article is inserted. The open end may be the proximal end. The cavity may have a closed end opposite the open end. The closed end may be the bottom of the cavity. In addition to providing an air gap disposed in the base, the closed end may be closed. The base of the cavity may be flat. The bottom of the cavity may be rounded. The bottom of the cavity may be arranged upstream of the cavity. The open end may be arranged downstream of the cavity. The cavity may have an elongated extension. The cavity may have a longitudinal central axis. The longitudinal direction may be the direction extending along the longitudinal center axis between the open end and the closed end. The longitudinal central axis of the cavity may be parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating device.

The cavity may be configured as a heating chamber. The cavity may have a cylindrical shape. The cavity may have a hollow cylindrical shape. The shape of the cavity may correspond to the shape of the aerosol-generating article to be received therein. The cavity may have a circular cross-section. The cavity can have an oval or rectangular cross-section. The cavity may have an inner diameter corresponding to the outer diameter of the aerosol-generating article.

The cavity may be adapted such that air can flow through the cavity. The top airflow channel may extend into the cavity. The liquid storage portion of the cartridge may be fluidly connected to the cavity via the top airflow channel. Ambient air can be drawn into the aerosol-generating device, into the cavity and towards the user. The open end of the cavity may include an air outlet. Downstream of the cavity, a mouthpiece can be arranged, or the user can smoke directly on the aerosol-generating article. The airflow channel may extend through the mouthpiece.

The cavity may be arranged in the top portion of the aerosol-generating device. Additionally, the aerosol-generating device may include a main portion. A receiving area for receiving the cartridge may be arranged between the top part and the main part. The cartridge can be sandwiched between the top part and the main part.

The top portion may include a heating element, and the main portion may include a power source for powering the heating element. The power source may include a battery. The power source can be a lithium-ion battery. Alternatively, the power source may be a nickel-metal hydride battery, a nickel-cadmium battery, or a lithium-based battery such as a lithium-cobalt, lithium-iron-phosphate, lithium titanate, or lithium-polymer battery. Alternatively, the power supply may be another form of charge storage device, such as a capacitor. The power supply may require charging and may have a capacity capable of storing enough energy for one or more use experiences; for example, the power supply may have sufficient capacity to continuously generate the aerosol for a period of about six minutes or a multiple of six minutes. In another example, the power supply may have sufficient capacity to provide a predetermined number of puffs or discrete activation of the heater.

The power source may be a direct current (DC) power source. In one embodiment, the power supply is a DC power supply having a DC supply voltage in the range of 2.5 volts to 4.5 volts and a DC supply current in the range of 1 amp to 10 amps (corresponding to a DC power supply in the range of 2.5 watts to 45 watts) . The aerosol-generating device may advantageously comprise a direct current to alternating current (DC/AC) inverter for converting DC current supplied by the DC power source to alternating current. The DC/AC converter may include a class D, class C or class E power amplifier. The power source may be configured to provide alternating current.

The power supply may be adapted to power the induction coil and may be configured to operate at high frequencies. Class E power amplifiers are preferred for operation at high frequencies. As used herein, the term "high frequency oscillating current" means an oscillating current having a frequency between 500 kilohertz and 30 megahertz. The frequency of the high frequency oscillating current may be from 1 MHz to 30 MHz, preferably from 1 MHz to 10 MHz, more preferably from 5 MHz to 8 MHz.

In another embodiment, the switching frequency of the power amplifier may be in the lower kHz range, eg, between 100 kHz and 400 KHz. Switching frequencies in the lower kHz range are particularly advantageous in implementations using class D or class C power amplifiers. The switching transistors will have ramp-up and ramp-down times, off-times, and on-times. Therefore, if a set of two or four (operating in pairs) switching transistors are used in a class D power amplifier, the switching frequency in the lower kHz range will account for the necessary turn-off of one transistor before ramping up the second transistor time to avoid damaging the power amplifier.

The heating element may comprise a resistive material. Suitable resistive materials include, but are not limited to, semiconductors such as doped ceramics, "conducting" electrically conductive ceramics (eg, molybdenum disilicide), carbon, graphite, metals, metal alloys, and composites made of ceramic and metallic materials. Such composite materials may include doped or undoped ceramics. Examples of suitable doped ceramics include doped silicon carbide. Examples of suitable metals include titanium, zirconium, tantalum, platinum, gold and silver. Examples of suitable metal alloys include stainless steel, nickel-containing alloys, cobalt-containing alloys, chromium-containing alloys, aluminum alloys, titanium-containing alloys, zirconium-containing alloys, hafnium-containing alloys, niobium-containing alloys, molybdenum-containing alloys, tantalum-containing alloys, Tungsten-containing alloys, tin-containing alloys, gallium-containing alloys, manganese-containing alloys, gold-containing alloys, iron-containing alloys, as well as nickel, iron, cobalt, stainless steel, Timetal? And iron-manganese-aluminum alloy-based superalloys. In composite materials, the resistive material can optionally be embedded in, encapsulated by, or coated with an insulating material or vice versa, depending on the kinetics of energy transfer and the desired external physicochemical properties.

The heating element may be part of the aerosol generating device. The aerosol-generating device may comprise an internal heating element or an external heating element or both, where "internal" and "external" refer to the aerosol-forming substrate. The internal heating element may take any suitable form. For example, the internal heating elements may take the form of heating blades. Alternatively, the internal heater may take the form of a sleeve or substrate with different conductive portions, or a resistive metal tube. Alternatively, the internal heating element may be one or more heating pins or rods running through the center of the aerosol-forming substrate. Other alternatives include heating wires or wires, eg, Ni-Cr (nickel-chromium), platinum, tungsten or alloy wires or heating plates. Optionally, the internal heating element may be deposited within or on a rigid carrier material. In one such embodiment, the resistive heating element may be formed using a metal having a defined relationship between temperature and resistivity. In such an exemplary device, metal may be formed as traces on a suitable insulating material (eg, a ceramic material) and then sandwiched in another insulating material (eg, glass). A heater formed in this manner can be used to heat and monitor the temperature of the heating element during operation.

The external heating element may take any suitable form. For example, the external heating elements may take the form of one or more flexible heating foils on a dielectric substrate (eg, polyimide). The flexible heating foil may be shaped to conform to the perimeter of the substrate receiving cavity. Alternatively, the external heating element may take the form of a metal mesh, flexible printed circuit board, molded interconnect device (MID), ceramic heater, flexible carbon fiber heater, or may use coating techniques (eg, plasma vapor deposition) on a suitable shaped substrate. External heating elements can also be formed using metals that have a defined relationship between temperature and resistivity. In such an exemplary device, the metal may be formed as a trace between two layers of suitable insulating material. An external heating element formed in this way can be used to heat and monitor the temperature of the external heating element during operation.

The internal or external heating element may comprise a heat sink or thermal reservoir comprising a material capable of absorbing and storing heat and then releasing the heat to the aerosol-forming substrate over time. The fins may be formed of any suitable material, such as a suitable metal or ceramic material. In one embodiment, the material has a high heat capacity (sensible heat storage material), or the material is a material capable of absorbing and then releasing heat via a reversible process (eg, high temperature phase change). Suitable sensible heat storage materials include silica gel, alumina, carbon, glass mats, fiberglass, minerals, metals or alloys such as aluminum, silver or lead, and cellulosic materials such as paper. Other suitable materials that release heat via reversible phase transitions include paraffins, sodium acetate, tallow, waxes, polyethylene oxides, metals, metal salts, salt mixtures or alloys. The heat sink or heat accumulator can be arranged such that it directly contacts the aerosol-forming substrate and can transfer stored heat directly to the substrate. In addition, the heat stored in the heat sink or heat accumulator can be transferred to the aerosol-forming substrate through a thermal conductor (eg, a metal tube).

The heating element advantageously heats the aerosol-forming substrate by means of thermal conduction. The heating element may at least partially contact the substrate or the carrier on which the substrate is deposited. Alternatively, heat from internal or external heating elements can be conducted to the substrate by means of thermally conductive elements.

During operation, the aerosol-forming substrate may be completely contained within the aerosol-generating device. In this case, the user can smoke the mouthpiece of the aerosol generating device. Alternatively, a smoking article containing the aerosol-forming substrate may be partially contained within the aerosol-generating device during operation. In this case, the user can smoke directly with the smoking article.

The heating element of the aerosol-generating device may comprise a resistive heating element. The heating elements of the top portion may comprise resistive heating elements. The heating element of the aerosol generating device may comprise an induction heating element. The heating elements of the top portion may comprise induction heating elements.

The induction heating element may be configured to generate heat by means of induction. The induction heating element may include an induction coil and a susceptor device. A single induction coil can be supplied. A single susceptor device may be provided. Preferably, more than a single induction coil is provided. A first induction coil and a second induction coil may be provided. Preferably, more than a single susceptor device is provided. The induction heating element may include a central susceptor device and a peripheral susceptor device.

The central susceptor device may be a tubular susceptor. Induction heating elements may include peripheral induction coils and tubular susceptors. A tubular susceptor may surround at least a portion of the top airflow channel.

The peripheral susceptor device may be an additional tubular susceptor. Additional tubular susceptors may surround at least a portion of the lumen.

The induction heating element may include a peripheral induction coil, a tubular susceptor, and an attached tubular susceptor. The induction coil, the tubular susceptor, and the additional tubular susceptor may be coaxially aligned.

The central susceptor device may comprise a central susceptor. The central susceptor arrangement may comprise at least two central susceptors. The central susceptor arrangement may comprise more than two central susceptors. The central susceptor arrangement may comprise four central susceptors. The central susceptor device may consist of four central susceptors. At least one, preferably all, of the central susceptors may be elongated.

The central susceptor may be arranged parallel to the longitudinal central axis of the cavity. If multiple central susceptors are provided, each central susceptor may be arranged equidistantly parallel to the longitudinal central axis of the cavity.

The downstream end portion of the central susceptor device may be rounded, preferably curved inwardly towards the central longitudinal axis of the cavity. The downstream end portion of the central susceptor may be rounded, preferably curved inwardly towards the central longitudinal axis of the cavity. If multiple central susceptors are provided, preferably each downstream end portion of each central susceptor may be rounded, preferably curved inwardly towards the central longitudinal axis of the cavity. The rounded end portion may facilitate insertion of the aerosol-generating article over the central susceptor device. Instead of a rounded end portion, the end portion may be tapered or chamfered towards the longitudinal center axis of the cavity.

The central susceptor device may be arranged around the central longitudinal axis of the cavity. If multiple central susceptors are provided, the central susceptors may be arranged in an annular orientation about the central longitudinal axis of the cavity. When the aerosol-generating article is inserted into the cavity, the aerosol-generating article can be centered in the cavity by means of the arrangement of the central susceptor device.

The central susceptor device may be hollow. The central susceptor arrangement may comprise at least two central susceptors defining a hollow cavity between the central susceptors. The hollow configuration of the central susceptor device may enable airflow into the hollow central susceptor device. A top airflow channel may extend through the hollow central susceptor device. A core may be provided within a hollow central susceptor device. As described herein, preferably, the central susceptor device comprises at least two central susceptors. Preferably, a gap is provided between at least two central susceptors. Thus, the airflow through the central susceptor device is enabled. This allows the airflow to be parallel or along the longitudinal center axis of the cavity. Preferably, by means of the gap, the airflow can be in a lateral direction. Lateral airflow may enable aerosol generation due to interstitial contact between the incoming air and the aerosol-generating substrate of the aerosol-generating article through the central susceptor. Heating of the central susceptor device may result in heating of the core disposed within the hollow central susceptor device. Heating of the core can result in aerosol generation within the hollow central susceptor device. Additionally or alternatively, heating the central susceptor device may result in aerosol generation within the hollow central susceptor device when the aerosol-generating article is inserted into the cavity. The central susceptor device may be configured to heat the interior of the aerosol-generating article. Aerosols can be pumped in the downstream direction through the hollow central susceptor device.

The central susceptor device may have an annular cross-section. The central susceptor arrangement may comprise at least two central susceptors defining a hollow cavity having an annular cross-section. The central susceptor device may be tubular. If the central susceptor arrangement comprises at least two central susceptors, the central susceptors may be arranged to form a tubular central susceptor arrangement. Preferably, airflow through the central susceptor arrangement is enabled through the gaps between the central susceptors.

The peripheral susceptor device may comprise an elongated, preferably leaf-shaped, susceptor, or a cylindrical susceptor. The peripheral susceptor device may comprise at least two leaf-shaped susceptors. Leaf-shaped susceptors may be arranged around the cavity. The leaf-shaped susceptors may be arranged parallel to the longitudinal central axis of the cavity. Leaf-shaped susceptors may be arranged inside the cavity. The leaf-shaped susceptor may be arranged to retain the aerosol-generating article when the aerosol-generating article is inserted into the cavity. The leaf susceptor may have a flared downstream end to facilitate insertion of the aerosol-generating article into the leaf susceptor. Air can flow into the cavity between the leaf-shaped susceptors. Gaps may be provided between individual leaf-shaped susceptors. Air can then contact or enter the aerosol-generating article. In this way, uniform penetration of the aerosol-generating article with air can be achieved, thereby optimizing aerosol generation. The peripheral susceptor device may be configured to heat the exterior of the aerosol-generating article.

The peripheral receptor device may comprise at least two peripheral receptors. A peripheral sensor device may include a plurality of peripheral receptors. At least one, preferably all, of the peripheral receptors may be elongated. At least one, preferably all, of the peripheral susceptors may be blade-shaped.

The downstream end portion of the peripheral susceptor device may be expanded. At least one, preferably all, of the peripheral susceptors may have an expanded downstream end portion.

The peripheral susceptor device may be arranged around the central longitudinal axis of the cavity. The peripheral susceptor devices may be arranged around the central susceptor device. If the peripheral susceptor device comprises a plurality of peripheral susceptors, each peripheral susceptor may be arranged equidistantly parallel to the central longitudinal axis of the cavity.

The peripheral susceptor device may define an annular hollow cylindrical cavity between the peripheral susceptor device and the central susceptor device. The annular hollow cylindrical cavity may be a cavity for inserting an aerosol-generating article. The central susceptor device may be arranged in an annular hollow cylindrical cavity. The annular hollow cylindrical cavity may be configured to receive the aerosol-generating article.

The peripheral susceptor may have an annular cross-section. The peripheral susceptor device may comprise at least two peripheral susceptors defining a hollow cavity having an annular cross-section. The peripheral susceptor device may be tubular.

The peripheral susceptor device may have an inner diameter that is greater than the outer diameter of the central susceptor device. An annular hollow cylindrical cavity may be arranged between the peripheral susceptor device and the central susceptor device.

The central susceptor arrangement and the peripheral susceptor arrangement may be arranged coaxially.

The induction coil may surround both the central and peripheral susceptor devices. The first induction coil may surround the first region of the central susceptor device and the peripheral susceptor device. The second induction coil may surround the central susceptor device and the second region of the peripheral susceptor device. The area surrounded by the induction coil can be configured as a heating zone, as described in more detail below.

The aerosol-generating device may include a flux concentrator. The flux concentrator can be made of a material with high magnetic permeability. The flux concentrator may be arranged around the induction heating element. The flux concentrator can concentrate the magnetic field lines inside the flux concentrator, thereby increasing the heating effect of the susceptor device by means of the induction coil and preventing the alternating magnetic field from the susceptor from interfering with other devices in the surrounding environment.

The aerosol-generating device may include a controller. The controller may be electrically connected to the induction coil. The controller may be electrically connected to the first induction coil and the second induction coil. The controller may be configured to control the current supplied to the induction coil, and thus the strength of the magnetic field generated by the induction coil.

The power supply and the controller may be connected to the induction coils (preferably the first induction coil and the second induction coil) and be configured to provide alternating current to each of the induction coils independently of each other, such that in use the induction coils each generate alternating magnetic field. This means that the power supply and controller can provide alternating current to the first induction coil itself, or to the second induction coil itself, or to both induction coils simultaneously. Different heating profiles can be achieved in this way. The heating curve may refer to the temperature of the corresponding induction coil. For heating to high temperatures, alternating current can be supplied to both induction coils at the same time. To heat to a lower temperature or to heat only a portion of the aerosol-forming substrate of the aerosol-generating article or a portion of the liquid in the core, the first induction coil may only be supplied with alternating current. Subsequently, the alternating current may only be supplied to the second induction coil.

The controller can be connected to an induction coil and a power source. The controller may be configured to control the supply of power to the induction coil from the power source. The controller may include a microprocessor, which may be a programmable microprocessor, microcontroller or application specific integrated chip (ASIC) or other circuit capable of providing control. The controller may include other electronic components. The controller may be configured to regulate the current supply to the induction coil. Current may be supplied to the induction coil continuously after activation of the aerosol generating device, or may be supplied intermittently, such as on a puff-by-puff basis.

The power supply and controller may be configured to independently vary the magnitude of the alternating current supplied to each of the first induction coil and the second induction coil. With this arrangement, the strengths of the magnetic fields generated by the first and second induction coils can be varied independently by varying the magnitude of the current supplied to each coil. This can facilitate a convenient variable heating effect. For example, the magnitude of the current supplied to one or both of the coils during activation can be increased to reduce the activation time of the aerosol-generating device.

The controller may be configured to be able to cut off the current supply on the input side of the DC/AC converter. In this way, the power supplied to the induction coil can be controlled by conventional methods of duty cycle management.

The first induction coil of the aerosol generating device may form part of the first electrical circuit. The first circuit may be a resonant circuit. The first circuit may have a first resonant frequency. The first circuit may include a first capacitor. The second induction coil may form part of the second electrical circuit. The second circuit may be a resonant circuit. The second circuit may have a second resonant frequency. The first resonant frequency may be different from the second resonant frequency. The first resonance frequency may be the same as the second resonance frequency. The second circuit may include a second capacitor. The resonant frequency of the resonant circuit depends on the inductance of the corresponding induction coil and the capacitance of the corresponding capacitor.

Both the top barrel connector and the main barrel connector may comprise electrically conductive elements adapted to be between the top portion and the main portion when the top barrel connector is directly attached to the main barrel connector according to the second mode of operation Make electrical contact. Alternatively or additionally, both the top barrel connector and the main barrel connector may include conductive elements adapted to be used when attaching the top barrel connector to the proximal end of the barrel and connecting the main barrel according to the first mode of operation. The cartridge connector, when attached to the distal end of the cartridge, establishes electrical contact between the top portion and the main portion.

The present invention may also relate to a system comprising an aerosol-generating device as described herein and an aerosol-generating article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate as described herein.

Aerosol-forming substrates may include plant-based materials. The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise tobacco. The aerosol-forming substrate may include a tobacco-containing material including volatile tobacco flavor compounds that are released from the aerosol-forming substrate upon heating. Alternatively, the aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a non-tobacco material. The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a homogeneous plant substrate. The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise homogenized tobacco material. Homogenized tobacco material can be formed by agglomerating particulate tobacco. In particularly preferred embodiments, the aerosol-forming substrate may comprise an aggregated crimped sheet of homogenized tobacco material. As used herein, the term "curled sheet" refers to a sheet having a plurality of generally parallel ridges or folds.

The aerosol-forming substrate may include at least one aerosol-forming agent. An aerosol former is any suitable known compound or mixture of compounds which, in use, facilitates the formation of a dense and stable aerosol and is substantially thermally resistant to degradation at the operating temperature of the device. Suitable aerosol formers are well known in the art and include, but are not limited to: polyols such as triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol and glycerol; esters of polyols such as glycerol mono-, di- or triacetate ; and fatty acid esters of mono-, di- or polycarboxylic acids, such as dimethyldodecanedioate and dimethyltetradecanedioate. Preferred aerosol formers are polyols or mixtures thereof, such as triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol. Preferably, the aerosol former is glycerol. If present, the aerosol-generating article content of the homogenized tobacco material may be equal to or greater than 5 weight percent by dry weight, preferably 5 to 30 weight percent by dry weight. The aerosol-forming substrate may include other additives and ingredients, such as fragrances.

As used herein, the term "aerosol-generating article" refers to an article that includes an aerosol-forming substrate capable of releasing a volatile compound that can form an aerosol. For example, an aerosol-generating article may be an article that generates an aerosol that can be directly inhaled by a user drawing or inhaling over a mouthpiece at the proximal or user end of the device. The aerosol-generating article may be disposable. The aerosol-generating article can be inserted into the cavity of the aerosol-generating device.

A non-exhaustive list of non-limiting examples is provided below. Any one or more features of these examples may be combined with any one or more features of another example, embodiment or aspect described herein.

A: A cartridge for an aerosol-generating device, the cartridge comprising:

a downstream end including a fluid outlet,

an upstream end that includes an air inlet,

a liquid storage portion disposed between the downstream end and the upstream end, wherein the liquid storage portion includes a liquid sensing medium, and

diffuser,

wherein the diffuser is arranged downstream of the air inlet.

B: The cartridge of embodiment A, wherein the diffuser is attached to the air inlet.

C: The cartridge of any preceding embodiment, wherein the diffuser is disposed adjacent the air inlet.

D: The cartridge of any preceding embodiment, wherein the diffuser is fluidly connected with the air inlet.

E: The cartridge of any preceding embodiment, wherein the diffuser is disc-shaped.

F: The cartridge of any preceding embodiment, wherein the diffuser is cushion-shaped.

G: The cartridge of any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the diffuser comprises a plurality of fibers.

H: The cartridge of any preceding embodiment, wherein the diffuser includes a plurality of voids.

1: The cartridge of any preceding embodiment, wherein the diffuser comprises a mesh.

J: The cartridge of any preceding embodiment, wherein a fluid path is established between the air inlet, the diffuser, the liquid storage portion, and the fluid outlet.

K: The cartridge of any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the air inlet is configured to draw ambient air into the cartridge.

L: The cartridge of any preceding embodiment, wherein the fluid outlet is configured to enable aspiration of fluid from the cartridge.

M: The cartridge of any preceding embodiment, wherein the fluid outlet comprises a one-way valve.

N: The cartridge of embodiment M, wherein the one-way valve of the fluid outlet protrudes from the downstream end.

O: The cartridge of embodiment M or N, wherein the one-way valve of the fluid outlet is made of plastic, preferably EPDM or PEEK.

P: The cartridge of any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the air inlet comprises a one-way valve.

Q: The cartridge of embodiment P, wherein the one-way valve of the air inlet protrudes from the upstream end.

R: Cartridge according to embodiment P or Q, wherein the one-way valve of the air inlet is made of plastic, preferably EPDM or PEEK.

S: The cartridge of any one of Embodiments M to O, wherein the one-way valve of the fluid outlet has a smaller diameter than the one-way valve of the air inlet.

T: The cartridge according to any of the preceding embodiments M to O or S, wherein the diameter of the one-way valve of the fluid outlet is between 0.75 mm and 7 mm, preferably between 1 mm and 1 mm Between 5 mm, most preferably between 1.5 mm and 3 mm.

U: The cartridge according to any one of the preceding embodiments P to R, wherein the diameter of the one-way valve of the air inlet is between 8 mm and 25 mm, preferably between 9 mm and 15 mm between.

V: The cartridge according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the height of the cartridge is between 7 mm and 40 mm, preferably between 9 mm and 25 mm, most preferably between 11 mm to 21 mm.

W: The cartridge of any preceding embodiment, wherein the cartridge includes a housing.

X: The cartridge of embodiment W, wherein the thickness of the shell is between 0.25mm and 2mm, preferably between 0.3mm and 1.5mm, most preferably between 0.35mm and 0.75mm between.

Y: The cartridge of embodiment W or X, wherein the housing has double walls.

Z: The cartridge of any of embodiments W to Y, wherein the housing comprises transparent plastic or glass, preferably borosilicate glass.

AA: The cartridge of any of Embodiments W to Z, wherein the air inlet is disposed in the housing.

AB: The cartridge of any one of Embodiments W to AA, wherein the fluid outlet is disposed in the housing.

AC: The cartridge of any one of Embodiments W to AB, wherein the housing is at least partially opaque or transparent.

AD: The cartridge of any of Embodiments W to AC, wherein the housing is fully opaque or transparent.

AE: The cartridge of embodiment AC or AD, wherein the opaque or transparent portion of the cartridge is UV resistant.

AF: The cartridge of any one of Embodiments AC to AE, wherein the opaque or transparent portion of the cartridge comprises a UV resistant polymer.

AG: The cartridge of any one of Embodiments AC to AF, wherein the opaque or transparent portion of the cartridge comprises an anti-UV coating.

AH: The cartridge of any preceding embodiment, wherein the cartridge is cylindrical.

AI: The cartridge of any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the downstream end comprises electrical connection means.

AJ: The cartridge of any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the upstream end includes electrical connection means.

AK: The cartridge of any preceding embodiment, wherein the liquid sensing medium comprises a flavoring agent.

AL: The cartridge of any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the liquid sensing medium comprises nicotine.

AM: The cartridge of any preceding embodiment, wherein the liquid sensing medium comprises water.

AN: A kit comprising at least two cartridges according to any one of the preceding embodiments.

AO: The kit of embodiment AN, wherein the kit includes two or more cartridges connected in series.

AP: The kit of embodiment AN or AO, wherein the kit includes two or more cartridges connected in parallel.

AQ: The kit of any one of Embodiments AN to AP, wherein the liquid sensing medium of one cartridge is different from the liquid sensing medium of the other cartridge.

AR: The kit of any one of embodiments AN to AQ, wherein the liquid sensing medium of one cartridge includes one of nicotine, flavor, and water, and the liquid sensing medium of the other cartridge includes nicotine, flavor A different one from water.

AS: An aerosol-generating device comprising a cavity for receiving an aerosol-generating article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate, wherein the aerosol-generating device is configured to removably receive according to an embodiment The cartridge of any of A to AN or the kit of any of Embodiments AN to AR.

Features described in relation to one embodiment may apply equally to other embodiments of the invention.

Description of drawings

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

Figure 1 shows a cartridge according to the invention;

Figure 2 shows an aerosol generating device according to the present invention;

Figure 3 shows other embodiments comprising two cartridges;

Figure 4 shows other embodiments of the cartridge;

Figure 5 shows an embodiment of an aerosol generating device using the cartridge shown in Figure 4; and

FIG. 6 shows an embodiment of an aerosol-generating device using a cartridge similar to that shown in FIG. 3 .

Detailed ways

FIG. 1 shows the cartridge 10 . Cartridge 10 includes a liquid storage portion 12 . Within the liquid storage portion 12, a liquid sensing medium 14 is provided. The liquid sensing medium 14 may include one or more of flavors, nicotine, and water. In a preferred embodiment, the liquid sensing medium 14 is water.

Cartridge 10 includes air inlet 16 . The air inlet 16 includes or is configured as a one-way valve 18 . Ambient air may enter the cartridge 10 through the air inlet 16 . In particular, ambient air may be drawn into the liquid storage portion 12 of the cartridge 10 .

A diffuser 20 is provided that is fluidly attached to the air inlet 16 . The diffuser 20 is configured to laterally distribute air entering the liquid storage portion 12 via the air inlet 16 . The diffuser 20 is disk or pad shaped. Diffuser 20 includes a fiber web. Spaces are provided between the webs. Air entering through the air inlet 16 is drawn through the diffuser 20 . After exiting the diffuser 20 , the air is structured as a mass of air bubbles drawn in by the liquid sensing medium 14 .

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 , the liquid sensing medium 14 fills approximately half of the liquid storage portion 12 . This may indicate that the liquid storage portion 12 is half used. The fresh liquid storage portion 12 may be completely filled with the liquid sensing medium 14 . At the downstream end of the cartridge 10, a fluid outlet 22 is provided. The fluid outlet 22 may include or consist of a one-way valve 24 . Air entrained with liquid sensing medium 14 may exit cartridge 10 through fluid outlet 22 .

FIG. 2 shows an embodiment of an aerosol generating device 26 . Cartridge 10 as described in connection with FIG. 1 may be used with aerosol generating device 26 . Aerosol-generating device 26 includes top portion 28 and body 30 .

Within the top portion 28, a cavity 32 is provided. The cavity 32 is configured such that the aerosol-generating article 34 can be inserted into the cavity 32 . Aerosol-generating article 34 includes an aerosol-forming substrate. In or around the cavity 32, heating elements for heating the interior of the cavity 32 are provided. For aerosol generation, the aerosol-forming substrate of the aerosol-generating article 34 is heated by means of a heating element. At the same time, the heating element is configured to heat the air in the suction cavity 32 .

The air in the suction chamber 32 is drawn through the cartridge 10 before being drawn into the chamber 32 . In other words, the cartridge 10 is arranged upstream of the cavity 32 . To draw air into the cartridge 10, the body 30 may include an inlet channel and an air flow channel. The inlet of the body 30 is fluidly connected with the air inlet 16 of the cartridge 10 via an air flow channel. To draw air enriched with liquid sensing medium 14 into cavity 32 from fluid outlet 22 of cartridge 10 , a top airflow channel may be provided within top portion 28 .

Cartridge 10 is received in receiving area 36 of aerosol-generating device 26 . The receiving area 36 is arranged between the top portion 28 and the main body 30 . Cartridge 10 is preferably sandwiched between top portion 28 and body 30 . During use, the user may place the cartridge 10 between the top portion 28 and the body 30 . Additionally, the user may insert the aerosol-generating article 34 into the cavity 32 . The user may then activate the aerosol-generating device 26 , preferably by pressing a button, and draw on the aerosol-generating article 34 . Therefore, negative pressure is generated in the aerosol generating device 26 . Therefore, ambient air is drawn into the aerosol generating device 26 . Ambient air is initially drawn through the cartridge 10 . In the cartridge 10 , ambient air is enriched with the liquid sensing medium 14 of the cartridge 10 . Illustratively, the ambient air may be enriched with flavorants, nicotine, or the humidity of the ambient air may be increased due to the liquid sensing medium 14 containing water. After passing through the cartridge 10 , the air is drawn further into the cavity 32 and flows through the aerosol-forming substrate of the aerosol-generating article 34 . The air is heated by means of the heating element and forms an aerosol which can be inhaled by the user.

The generated aerosol is a combination of air enriched by the liquid sensing medium 14 and air heated and flowing through the aerosol-forming substrate of the aerosol-generating article 34 .

Figure 3 shows an embodiment in which two cartridges 10 are attached to each other. The cartridge 10 shown in FIG. 3 has a rectangular cross-section compared to the circular cross-section of the cartridge 10 shown in FIG. 1 . This shows that the specific shape of the cartridge 10 can be appropriately selected. Where appropriate, two cylindrical cartridges 10 as shown in FIG. 1 may be stacked instead of the specific cartridge 10 stacked as shown in FIG. 3 .

The attachment between each cartridge 10 is facilitated by the shape of the air inlet 16 and fluid outlet 22 of the respective cartridge 10 . The fluid outlet 22 is shaped so that the fluid outlet 22 of one cartridge 10 can be inserted into the air inlet 16 of the other cartridge 10 . The outer diameter of the fluid outlet 22 corresponds to the inner diameter of the air inlet 16 . The attachment between the various cartridges 10 is facilitated by a friction fit. Due to the attachment between each cartridge 10 , air drawn through the cartridges 10 is drawn through both cartridges 10 . Thus, the liquid sensing medium 14 from the two cartridges 10 is entrained in the air drawn through the cartridges 10 . The user may select different cartridges 10 containing different liquid sensing media 14 to produce the desired effect. Illustratively, one cartridge 10 including the nicotine-containing liquid sensing medium 14 may be used, while a second selected cartridge 10 may include the flavoring-containing liquid sensing medium 14 .

FIG. 4 shows various embodiments for combining different liquid sensing media 14 . In this embodiment, a single cartridge 10 is provided. However, two different liquid storage portions 12 are provided within a single cartridge 10 . Each liquid storage portion 12 is configured similarly to the cartridge 10 as described herein. More particularly, each liquid storage portion 12 includes an air inlet 16 , a liquid sensing medium 14 , a diffuser 20 and a fluid outlet 22 . As shown in FIG. 4, the two liquid storage portions 12 are arranged adjacent to each other. The air in the suction cartridge 10 is sucked through the separate liquid storage portion 12 in parallel. After leaving the separate liquid storage portion 12 , the air is combined and flows through the fluid outlet 22 of the cartridge 10 .

FIG. 5 shows an embodiment of the aerosol-generating device 26 in which two cartridges 10 are received in the receiving area 36 of the aerosol-generating device 26 . Alternatively, to provide two cartridges 10 as shown in Fig. 5, a cartridge 10 containing two separate liquid storage portions 12 as shown in Fig. 4 may be arranged in the receiving area 36 to a similar effect.

FIG. 6 shows an exploded view of the aerosol-generating device 26 with two cartridges 10 stacked on top of each other, similar to the arrangement of cartridges 10 shown in FIG. 3 . Air is then drawn through each cartridge 10 to achieve the desired effect.

Claims (22)

1. A cartridge for an aerosol generating device, the cartridge comprising: a downstream end, the downstream end including a fluid outlet, wherein the fluid outlet includes a one-way valve, an upstream end, the upstream end including an air inlet, wherein the air inlet includes a one-way valve, a liquid storage portion disposed between the downstream end and the upstream end, wherein the liquid storage portion includes a liquid sensing medium, and diffuser, wherein the diffuser is arranged downstream of the air inlet. 2. The cartridge of claim 1, wherein the diffuser is attached to the air inlet. 3. A cartridge according to any preceding claim, wherein the diffuser is arranged adjacent the air inlet. 4. The cartridge of any preceding claim, wherein the diffuser is fluidly connected to the air inlet. 5. A cartridge according to any preceding claim, wherein the diffuser is disc-shaped or cushion-shaped. 6. A cartridge according to any preceding claim, wherein the diffuser comprises a plurality of fibres and preferably a plurality of voids. 7. The cartridge of any preceding claim, wherein the diffuser comprises a mesh. 8. The cartridge of any preceding claim, wherein a fluid path is established between the air inlet, the diffuser, the liquid storage portion and the fluid outlet. 9. The cartridge of any preceding claim, wherein the one-way valve of the fluid outlet protrudes from the downstream end of the cartridge, and wherein the one-way valve of the air inlet protrudes from the The upstream end of the barrel protrudes. 10. The cartridge of any preceding claim, wherein the one-way valve of the fluid outlet has a smaller diameter than the one-way valve of the air inlet. 11. Cartridge according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the diameter of the one-way valve of the fluid outlet is between 0.75 mm and 7 mm, preferably between 1 mm and 5 mm, Most preferably between 1.5 mm and 3 mm. 12. A cartridge according to any preceding claim, wherein the diameter of the one-way valve of the air inlet is between 8 mm and 25 mm, preferably between 9 mm and 15 mm. 13. A cartridge according to any preceding claim, wherein the cartridge comprises a housing, and wherein the housing preferably comprises transparent plastic or glass, preferably borosilicate glass. 14. The cartridge of claim 13, wherein the housing is at least partially opaque or transparent. 15. A cartridge according to claim 14, wherein the opaque or transparent portion of the cartridge is UV resistant, wherein preferably the opaque or transparent portion of the cartridge comprises a UV resistant polymer or UV resistant coating . 16. The cartridge of any preceding claim, wherein the downstream end of the cartridge includes electrical connections, and wherein the upstream end of the cartridge includes electrical connections. 17. The cartridge of any preceding claim, wherein the liquid sensing medium comprises one or more of the following: flavoring, nicotine, and water. 18. A kit comprising at least two cartridges according to any preceding claim. 19. The kit of claim 18, wherein the kit comprises two or more cartridges connected in series. 20. The kit of any one of claims 18 or 19, wherein the liquid sensing medium of one cartridge is different from the liquid sensing medium of the other cartridge. 21. An aerosol-generating device comprising a cavity for receiving an aerosol-generating article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate, wherein the aerosol-generating device is configured to removably receive a The cartridge of any one of 1 to 17 or the kit of any one of claims 18 to 20. 22. The aerosol-generating device of claim 21, wherein the device is configured to removably receive two or more parallel-connected devices of the kit of any one of claims 18 to 20. cylinder.

Images