WO2022200487A1

WO2022200487A1 - Aerosol generating device with an at least in part non-rigid e-liquid reservoir

Info

Publication number: WO2022200487A1
Application number: PCT/EP2022/057735
Authority: WO
Inventors: Alec WRIGHT; Andrew Robert John ROGAN
Original assignee: Jt International Sa
Priority date: 2021-03-25
Filing date: 2022-03-24
Publication date: 2022-09-29

Abstract

The present invention relates to an aerosol generating device comprising a primary liquid reservoir, a secondary liquid reservoir and a mouthpiece sequentially arranged one after another. The primary liquid reservoir comprises an aerosolisable liquid which is transportable towards the secondary liquid reservoir through at least one opening thereby creating a liquid flow path. The aerosol generating device further comprises at least one aerosol generating unit arranged in the liquid flow path for generating inhalable aerosol which flows to the mouthpiece thereby creating an aerosol flow path. The primary liquid reservoir further comprises a variable volume surrounded by an at least in part non-rigid surrounding wall which is mechanically deformable and/or extendable. The aerosolisable liquid is extractable and/or refillable of the primary liquid reservoir through the opening to the aerosol generating unit during pressurization of the primary liquid reservoir. The aerosolisable liquid occupies the entire volume of the primary liquid reservoir and/or the primary liquid reservoir is sealed in gas-tight manner.

Description

Aerosol generating device with an at least in part non-rigid e-liquid reservoir

Description

The present invention relates to an aerosol generating device comprising two liquid reservoirs, wherein the primary liquid reservoir comprises a non-rigid surrounding wall at least in part. The invention also relates to such primary liquid reservoir, a method for manufacturing an aerosol generating device comprising the primary liquid reservoir and a method for refilling the primary liquid reservoir.

There are several e-vapor devices known and available on the market and most of them have issues such as leakage of the e-liquid. This is typically caused by the liquid flowing of the air inlet of and excessive flow to the vapor generating unit which then floods and leaks from the mouthpiece. The leaked liquid causes also several problems in the device. One of them is the sticking together of the mechanical, electrical and/or electronic components thereby leading to a breakdown of the device.

It is therefore the objective of the invention to improve the liquid flow from one reservoir another reservoir within an aerosol generating device thereby avoiding the leakage. Furthermore, an objective of the invention is to provide such an aerosol generating device, a reservoir, a method for manufacturing an aerosol generating device comprising the reservoir and a method for refilling the primary liquid reservoir. The above-mentioned requirement is met by the object of claim 1. Preferred embodiments are objects of the dependent claims. An aerosol generating device comprising a primary liquid reservoir, a secondary liquid reser voir and a mouthpiece sequentially arranged one after another is intended to solve the above mentioned problems. The primary liquid reservoir comprises an aerosolisable liquid, in partic ular as a source of the liquid, which is transportable towards the secondary liquid reservoir through at least one opening thereby creating a liquid flow path. Preferably the primary liquid reservoir stores the liquid and is the only liquid reservoir for permanent liquid storage. Thus, the aerosol generating article exclusively the primary and the secondary liquid reservoirs.

The aerosol generating device further comprises at least one aerosol generating unit ar ranged in the liquid flow path for generating inhalable aerosol which flows to the mouthpiece thereby creating an aerosol flow path. Preferably the aerosol generating unit is arranged di rectly or indirectly next to the opening of the primary liquid reservoir.

The aerosolisable liquid comprised in the primary liquid reservoir is preferably heated up by the aerosol generating unit thereby generating a vapor. Preferably the generated vapor cools down and condenses thereby forming an inhalable aerosol. Due to this, the primary liquid reservoir preferably comprises a flavored liquid with which a smokable or inhalable aerosol can be formed.

In case of collateral particularly indirectly positioned aerosol generating unit, preferably the aerosolisable liquid is leaded along a liquid channel. Preferably the liquid flow path is then defined by the liquid channel.

According to the invention, the primary liquid reservoir comprises a variable volume sur rounded by an at least in part non-rigid surrounding wall which is mechanically deformable and/or extendable. The aerosolisable liquid is then extractable and/or refillable from the pri mary liquid reservoir through the opening to the aerosol generating unit during and/or upon pressurization of the primary liquid reservoir. Furthermore, the aerosolisable liquid occupies the entire volume of the primary liquid reservoir and/or the primary liquid reservoir is sealed in gas-tight manner.

Preferably the secondary liquid reservoir particularly meets the purpose of an aerosolization chamber. The aerosolisable liquid lead and/or guided to the secondary liquid reservoir prefer ably touches or reaches the aerosol generating unit which preferably represents an end section of the liquid flow path. Furthermore, the aerosol generating unit also preferably represents an initial section of the aerosol flow path. The aerosol generating unit preferably comprises a heater and/or other components for aero- solization of the liquid. Preferably the leaded aerosolisable liquid of the primary liquid reservoir touches a surface of the aerosol generating unit, particularly of the heater. It is therefore par ticularly advantageous to arrange the aerosol generating unit parallel to the opening of the primary liquid reservoir. This eliminates the need for mechanical guiding the aerosolisable liq uid via liquid channel.

Preferably the aerosolisable liquid is extractable by a mechanical pressurization of the primary liquid reservoir and/or a housing of the aerosol generating device. Also preferably the pressur ization on the primary liquid reservoir results by suction on the mouthpiece by a user. This preferably creates a negative pressure in the device, especially in the primary liquid reservoir, and draws the aerosolisable liquid along the liquid flow path to the aerosol generating unit. In this case, it is particularly advantageous to arrange the aerosol generating unit immediately next to the opening. It is also conceivable to arrange a liquid channel in fluid connection to the mouthpiece through the secondary liquid reservoir especially directly on the opening of the primary liquid reservoir. Preferably the liquid channel is a part of the primary liquid reservoir representing its constriction thereby forming the opening.

Also preferably the aerosol generating unit is positioned in the liquid channel of the primary liquid reservoir. It is particularly advantageous to use an aerosol generating unit which is in fluid connection to the mouthpiece, to the secondary liquid reservoir and to the primary liquid reservoir. To achieve this, it is possible to use an aerosol generating unit formed as a heating ring with a narrow through-hole. The through-hole preferably comprises a diameter in the range of 0.5 mm and 3 mm, also preferably of 0.8 and 1.5 mm. The heating ring preferably comprises at least heating surfaces which aerosolize the aerosolisable liquid by getting in contact. Pref erably the liquid flow path passes through the heating ring and ends there. Due to this, the user can control the liquid flow between two reservoirs and additionally minimize leakage by only drawing on the mouthpiece. The reliable liquid supply of the aerosol generating unit is preferably guaranteed.

In another embodiment, the aerosol generating unit preferably seals the opening of the primary liquid reservoir in a one-way (single use) manner being in fluid connection to the mouthpiece and the secondary liquid reservoir. Preferably the aerosol generating unit receives the aero solisable liquid from the primary liquid reservoir and generates aerosol. Also preferably the aerosol generating unit is a component of the primary liquid reservoir or the secondary liquid reservoir.

Preferably the aerosolisable liquid occupies the entire volume of the primary liquid reservoir. In this case the primary liquid reservoir preferably does not comprise any gas. Additionally or alternatively, the primary liquid reservoir is sealed in gas-tight manner. The expansion and contraction of the air which also usually causes the leakage in the common devices is prefer ably minimized. The aerosolisable liquid comprised in the sealed primary liquid reservoir is preferable extractable by pressing the liquid into at least the secondary liquid reservoir. During the liquid extraction, the volume of the primary liquid reservoir preferably reduces. Preferably the reduced volume of the primary liquid reservoir is proportional to an amount of extracted liquid. As the user pushes the aerosolisable liquid himself to the aerosol generating unit and the secondary liquid reservoir, he has the control about supplying the aerosol generating unit with liquid.

According to another embodiment, the primary liquid reservoir is a flexible bag. Preferably the primary liquid reservoir comprises more than one non-rigid surrounding wall. In this context a surrounding wall means that one or a number of walls surround a volume thereby forming a reservoir with at least one opening. In case of only one wall, the reservoir could comprise a spherical shape, such as a balloon or a bag. Preferably the non-rigid surrounding wall is flexible and its area varies due to a fill level or amount of fullness with aerosolisable liquid. It is con ceivable that the non-rigid surrounding wall is stretchable due to the amount of the fullness. Preferably the primary reservoir with a greatest fullness or fill level comprises a volume in range of 5 ml and 30 ml, preferably 7 ml and 20 ml, also preferably 8 ml and 15 ml, most preferred 10 ml. It is advantageous to provide a primary liquid reservoir with a volume sur rounded by the non-rigid wall with at least a usual volume for reservoirs for use in the aerosol generating device.

In another embodiment, the aerosol generating device, especially the primary liquid reservoir, preferably comprises means for determining the fill level of the aerosolisable liquid in the pri mary liquid reservoir. As the user drives the primary reservoir compression, this enables fill level to be determined depending upon reducing of the volume in the primary liquid reservoir. It is also conceivable to determine the fill level of the primary liquid reservoir by other methods, for example weight change of the primary liquid reservoir. According to another embodiment, the surrounding wall comprises a concertina bladder struc ture. Preferably the primary reservoir comprising a concertina bladder structure further com prises a rigid or non-rigid bottom wall. Furthermore, preferably the surrounding wall comprising the concertina bladder structure comprises at least rigid and non-rigid wall parts.

It is conceivable to determine the fill level of such primary liquid reservoir by measuring its length along a length axis parallel to the liquid flow path from the bottom wall to the opening. As the volume of the reservoir reduces in its volume by extracting the aerosolisable liquid, the concertina bladder structure preferably shrinks and the length of the reservoir preferably short ens.

According to another embodiment, the primary liquid reservoir is a tube. Preferably the tube comprises a hollow body being at least the surrounding wall and the bottom wall. It is conceiv able that the hollow body comprises a shape of a hollow cylinder, cuboid or prism. Also pref erably the bottom wall is arranged perpendicular to the length axis. It is conceivable that the bottom wall is movable or deformable to allow the aerosolisable liquid flow towards the opening along the liquid flow path.

According to another embodiment, the surrounding wall comprises a rigid cylindrical shape which is connected to a deformable and/or an adjustable bottom. The pressurization preferably deforms and/or adjusts proportional the bottom proportional to the volume change.

According to another embodiment, the opening is a nozzle, preferably a one way nozzle, also preferably a one-way valve, which seals the primary liquid reservoir against the liquid flow path, wherein the nozzle is a connection between the primary liquid reservoir and the secondary liquid reservoir. Preferably the nozzle is an annular nozzle. Also preferably the nozzle com prises a cone body with an interior fluid manifold. The cone preferably comprises a retaining groove and a fluid groove. Preferably the opening or nozzle allows the liquid flow only in one direction along the liquid flow path preventing flow back through the opening or the nozzle. It is also conceivable to use other nozzles or valves for preventing the flow back of the aerosol isable liquid against the liquid flow path and allowing it to flow along the liquid flow path.

According to another embodiment, the aerosol generating unit comprises means for generating aerosol, preferably a heater. Preferably the heater vaporizes the aerosolisable liquid to pro duce aerosol or vapor. Also preferably the heater comprises at least one resistive heater coil and a wick, which extends therethrough. Preferably the wick delivers the aerosolisable liquid via capillary force thereby supplying the coil or heater with the liquid.

It is conceivable that such heater is arranged in the secondary liquid reservoir. In this case the secondary liquid reservoir is in fluid connection to the primary liquid reservoir at least by pres surization. Preferably the aerosolisable liquid is collectable at least in a part of the secondary liquid reservoir which supplies the aerosol generating unit, preferably the heater or wick and coil, with the liquid. Due to this, it is conceivable that the aerosol generating unit, preferably the heater, is in fluid connection at least to the secondary liquid reservoir.

According to another embodiment, the aerosol generating unit is arranged between the primary liquid reservoir and the secondary liquid reservoir. In particular, it is advantageous to arrange the aerosol generating unit between preferably inside a connection channel, to create a simple construction. The connection channel is preferably is a fluid connection between the primary and secondary liquid reservoir.

According to another embodiment, the secondary liquid reservoir comprises at least one chan nel which leads the generated aerosol from the aerosol generating unit to the mouthpiece. Preferably the channel for leading aerosol to the mouthpiece defines an aerosol flow path. It is also conceivable that the aerosol leading channel is connected to the aerosol generating unit.

The objective is also reached by a primary liquid reservoir for an aerosol generating device which further comprises a secondary liquid reservoir and a mouthpiece sequentially arranged one after another. The primary liquid reservoir comprises an aerosolisable liquid which is trans portable towards the secondary liquid reservoir through at least one opening thereby creating a liquid flow path. The primary liquid reservoir is characterized by a variable volume surrounded by an at least in part non-rigid surrounding wall which is mechanically deformable and/or ex tendable. The aerosolisable liquid is extractable and/or refillable of the primary liquid reservoir through the opening to the aerosol generating unit during pressurization of the primary liquid reservoir. The aerosolisable liquid occupies the entire volume of the primary liquid reservoir and/or the primary liquid reservoir is sealed in gas-tight manner. Such primary liquid reservoirs are preferably used at least in electronic smoking articles as a consumable supply. It is conceivable that the primary liquid reservoir is refillable and/or re placeable if the reservoir is empty. In another embodiment, the aerosol generating device com prises more than one primary liquid reservoirs. In such a case, preferably the secondary liquid reservoir is in fluid connection to all primary liquid reservoirs for ensuring the aerozolization of the liquid. It is particularly advantageous to use different flavors of the aerosolisable liquids for delivering different aerosol tastes with only one device. In this case, the user has no need to change the reservoirs if he would like to consume another aerosolisable liquid. Therefore, it is conceivable that the aerosol generating device further comprises means for connecting and/or disconnecting the different primary liquid reservoirs with at least the secondary liquid reservoir or the aerosol generating unit.

The objective is also reached by a method for manufacturing an aerosol generating device comprising a primary liquid reservoir, a secondary liquid reservoir and a mouthpiece. The pri mary liquid reservoir comprises an aerosolisable liquid which is transportable towards the sec ondary liquid reservoir through at least one opening thereby creating a liquid flow path comprising following steps: providing the primary and secondary liquid reservoirs and the mouthpiece; arranging the primary liquid reservoir sequentially after the secondary liquid reservoir; connecting the primary liquid reservoir to the secondary liquid reservoir with the open ing; connecting the secondary liquid reservoir to the mouthpiece; installing the primary and secondary liquid reservoirs and the mouthpiece in a housing.

It is also conceivable to prove more than one primary and/or secondary liquid reservoir. In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device comprises two primary liquid reservoirs which are connected to a corresponding secondary liquid reservoir. Preferably the first and second sec ondary liquid reservoir are further connected to a common aerosol leading channel which is further connected to the mouthpiece of the device. The advantage of several primary and/or secondary liquid reservoirs is that a possibility is created to generate aerosol of different liquids with different liquid tastes. Preferably the generated aerosol is completely separated to achieve unpleasant taste mixture.

Preferably the method comprises a step for connecting the primary liquid reservoir with the secondary liquid reservoir at the corresponding connections. Preferably the primary reservoir comprises a first connection and the secondary liquid reservoir comprises a second connec tion. Preferably the first and the second connections are at least fluid tight interlocking parts. It is conceivable that the first connection comprises the opening of the primary liquid reservoir. In such a case, the primary liquid reservoir is preferably connectable to the secondary reservoir at the opening. Also preferably the secondary liquid reservoir comprises at least a screw con nection or other means of interlocking with the opening.

Preferably the secondary liquid reservoir is connected to the mouthpiece of the aerosol gener ating device via an aerosol leading channel. It is conceivable that the aerosol leading channel is at least an elongate part of the secondary liquid reservoir.

Preferably the aerosol generating device is encased in a housing. Also preferably the primary liquid reservoir, secondary liquid reservoir and mouthpiece arrangement is attachable in the inside of the housing.

According to another embodiment, the method comprises an arranging step of an aerosol gen erating unit at least in the secondary liquid reservoir.

The objective is also reached by a method for refilling the primary liquid reservoir comprising following steps providing a refilling reservoir comprising an refillable aerosolisable liquid; arrange the refilling reservoir to the mouthpiece; applying pressure to the primary liquid reservoir with the refilling reservoir, wherein the aerosolisable liquid flows from the refilling reservoir through the mouthpiece to the opening.

It is conceivable that the primary liquid reservoir is refillable with an aerosolisable liquid. Pref erably the filling step comprises pressurization on at least the primary liquid reservoir. It is conceivable that the refilling reservoir or the aerosol generating device comprises means for creating dummy pulls. Such dummy pulls are preferably suitable to apply pressure against the liquid flow path and/or the aerosol flow path.

It is conceivable to refill the primary liquid reservoir without taking out of the housing of the device. Furthermore, it is conceivable to use the aerosol channel leading channel, mouthpiece, the aerosol generating unit and/or the connection between the primary and secondary liquid reservoirs, for refilling. Preferably the volume of the primary liquid reservoir increases with the filled aerosolisable liquid. Also preferably refilled primary liquid reservoir is refillable to the max imum fill level of the reservoir.

It is conceivable that the refilling method comprises an insertion step of means for aerosolisa ble liquid transportation into the primary liquid reservoir. Preferably the refilling reservoir com prises such means for liquid transport. It is conceivable that the means comprise an elongate tubular channel. It is also possible that the refilling method comprises an opening step. During the opening step preferably the opening of the primary liquid reservoir is openable for receiving the aerosolisable liquid.

Further advantages, objectives and features of the present invention will be described, by way of example only, in the following description with reference to the appended figures. In the figures, like components in different embodiments can exhibit the same reference sym bols.

The figures show:

Fig. 1 schematic cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device comprising pri mary and secondary liquid reservoirs;

Fig. 1a enlarged schematic cross-sectional view of primary and secondary liquid res ervoir;

Fig. 2a schematic view of a primary liquid reservoir with a concertina bladder structure with a full length;

Fig. 2b schematic view of a primary liquid reservoir with a concertina bladder structure with a shortened length;

Fig. 3a schematic view of a primary liquid reservoir as a tube with a full length;

Fig. 3b schematic view of a primary liquid reservoir as a tube with a shortened length;

Fig. 4a schematic view of a primary liquid reservoir as a bag with a full length;

Fig. 4b schematic view of a primary liquid reservoir as a bag with a shortened length;

Fig.5 flow chart of a method for manufacturing an aerosol generating device com prising primary and secondary liquid reservoirs. Figure 1 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device 1 compris ing primary 2 and secondary 3 liquid reservoirs. The secondary liquid reservoir 3 is prefera bly mechanically and fluidly connected to a mouthpiece 4 of the device 1. Preferably the mouthpiece 4 comprises an outlet 4a for generated aerosol. In particular, the outlet 4a is use- able as an aerosol outlet 4a and as an inlet 4b for refilling the aerosolisable liquid in the pri mary liquid reservoir 2. Preferably the outlet 4a and/or the inlet 4b comprises a mouthpiece opening 10 for exhausting the aerosol of the secondary liquid reservoir 3. Also preferably the same opening 10 is useable for receiving a refilling tube of a refilling reservoir (not shown). However, it is possible that the opening 10 comprises a valve or nozzle. In a preferred em bodiment, the nozzle or valve of the mouthpiece is preferably detachable for the refilling pro cess.

Preferably an aerosol flow path af extends at least from an aerosol generating unit 6 to the mouthpiece 4, particularly to the mouthpiece opening 10. In figure 1 the aerosol generating unit 6 is arranged between the primary 2 and secondary 3 liquid reservoirs. It is also conceiv able to arrange the aerosol generating unit 6 in the secondary liquid reservoir 3, preferably in the near of the opening 9 (shown in fig. 1a). In this context “in the near” means that the aero sol generating unit 6 is in fluid connection to the primary liquid reservoir 2, especially during pressurization. In the shown embodiment of the device 1 , the aerosol generating unit 6 is preferably a connection means 11 between the secondary 3 and primary 2 liquid reservoirs.

It is conceivable that the connection means 11 is at least a part of the primary 2 and/or sec ondary 3 liquid reservoir. However, preferably the connection means 11 or the aerosol gener ating unit 6 comprises the opening 9, preferably a nozzle or a valve 9a (shown in fig. 1a).

Preferably the primary liquid reservoir 2 comprises a full length 11 in an amount of 2 cm to 10 cm, also preferably 3 cm to 7 cm, most preferred 5 cm. But it is also conceivable to provide a primary liquid reservoir 2 with another full length 11. In fact, the full length 11 of the reservoir 2 should be adapted to a size of the entire aerosol generating device 1.

The primary liquid reservoir 2 with a volume 7 preferably comprises an aerosolisable liquid 5. It is possible that the aerosolisable liquid comprises a mix of several aerosolisable liquids 5. However, the liquid 5 fills preferably the whole volume 7 being the only fluid in the reservoir 2. Preferably a liquid flow path If extends from a bottom 8a of the primary liquid reservoir 2 to at least the aerosol generating unit 6. Also preferably the liquid flow path If is parallel to the full length 11 of the reservoir 2. The primary liquid reservoir 2 preferably comprises a non-rigid surrounding wall 8 at least in part. Preferably the surrounding wall 8 is connected to the bottom 8a in fluid tight manner. It is also conceivable that the bottom 8a is a part of the surrounding wall 8. In figure 1 , the pri mary liquid reservoir 2 comprises a concertina bladder structure. The surrounding wall 8 is preferably compressible and/or foldable due to the pressurization caused at least by a user’s drawing on the mouthpiece 4. Preferably the surrounding wall and/or the bottom of the pri mary liquid reservoir 2 comprises materials which are common for use in the tobacco and food industry. One of the most sufficient properties of the used materials for the primary liq uid reservoir 2 is preferably at least flexibility, liquid resistance and resilience.

The secondary liquid reservoir 3 preferably at least comprises the aerosolized liquid 5 (shown in fig. 1a). In particular, the secondary liquid reservoir 3 acts at least as an aerosoli- zation chamber of the device 1. Preferably the secondary liquid reservoir 2 comprises a heat resistant material.

Preferably the aerosol generating device 1 comprises a housing 12 in which the primary 2 and secondary 3 liquid reservoirs are arrangeable.

Figure 1a shows an enlarged schematic cross-sectional view of primary 2 and secondary 3 liquid reservoir. Preferably the secondary liquid reservoir 3 is connected to the primary liquid reservoir 2 via connecting means 11. Also preferably the connecting means 11 comprises an aerosol generating unit 6. It is conceivable that the connecting means 11 or the aerosol gen erating unit 6 is a part of the primary liquid reservoir 2. In this case, an opening 9 of the pri mary liquid reservoir 2 is a part of the aerosol generating unit 6 and/or the connecting means 11.

Preferably the aerosol generating unit 6 comprises means for generating aerosol 6a, such as a heater. Also preferably the means for generating aerosol 6a or the heater heats up the aer- osolisable liquid 5 which is first stored in the primary liquid reservoir 2 and then is preferably moved up along the liquid flow path If to the aerosol generating unit 6. The aerosolisable liq uid 5 is moveable, preferably pullable, along the liquid flow path If only during applying pres sure to the primary liquid reservoir 2. Preferably the pressure is generated by the user, if he is drawning or pulling on the mouthpiece 4. Figures 2a and 2b show a schematic view of a primary liquid reservoir 2 with concertina blad der structure with full 11 and shortened I2 length. The primary liquid reservoir 2 with the full length 11 preferably comprises a cylindrical shape and a volume 7. The volume 7 is prefera bly surrounded by surrounding wall 8. The surrounding wall 8 comprises a non-rigid material at least in part which is foldable at the predefined areas of the wall 8.

To achieve the shortened length I2 of the primary liquid reservoir 2, the reservoir 2 should be exposed to the pressure by the user. Due to the pressurization, the volume 7a of the primary liquid reservoir 2 preferably decreases in its size proportional to the length difference be tween the full length 11 and the shortened length I2 and to the volume of the extracted aero- solisable liquid 5. The extracted aerosolisable liquid 5 leaves the reservoir 2 through its opening 9. Preferably the opening 9 is in fluid connection to the aerosol generating unit 6 (shown in fig. 1).

Figures 3a and 3b show another embodiment of the primary liquid reservoir 2. Furthermore, figures 3a and 3b show a schematic view of a primary liquid reservoir 2 as a tube with a full 11 and shortened I2 length. The shown primary liquid reservoir 2 comprises a non-rigid sur rounding wall 8 at least in part. In particular, the wall 8 preferably comprises a non-rigid bot tom 8a being a part of the surrounding wall 8. Also preferably the bottom 8a is perpendicular to the liquid flow path If. The bottom 8a is preferably flexible and/or movable with regard to the surrounding wall or the liquid flow path If. It is advantageous to attach the bottom 8a to the surrounding wall 8 in a fluid tight manner, especially due to the fact of the slidability of the bottom 8a.

To achieve the shortened length I2 of the primary liquid reservoir 2 (shown in fig. 3b), the res ervoir 2 should be exposed to the pressure by the user, as described above. Preferably dur ing the pressurization the bottom 8a slides along the liquid flow path If decreasing thereby the volume 7a.

Figures 4a and 4b show another embodiment of the primary liquid reservoir 2. Furthermore, figures 4a and 4b show a schematic view of a primary liquid reservoir 2 as a bag with a full 11 and shortened I2 length. Preferably the shown primary liquid reservoir 2 comprises an elastic body being able to expand by a multiple of its original size. Due to this fact, it is advanta geous to provide primary liquid reservoirs 2 comprising at least rubber or polymers. The primary liquid reservoir 2 preferably comprises a volume 7 being expanded at the most and filled with the aerosolisable liquid 5, as shown in figure 2a. During the pressurization, the reservoir 2 drains the aerosolisable liquid 5 along the liquid flow path If at the opening 9. The volume 7a preferably decreases proportional to the drained volume of the aerosolisable liq uid 5 and the surrounding wall 8 preferably contracts to a smaller size.

Figure 5 shows a flow chart of a method for manufacturing an aerosol generating device 1 comprising primary 2 and secondary 3 liquid reservoirs. Preferably the first step of the method is providing 100 at least the primary 2 and secondary 3 liquid reservoirs. Also prefer ably the step includes another step of providing the mouthpiece 4. As a second step of the method, the arranging 101 step should be performed.

The arranging 101 step comprises arranging the primary liquid reservoir 2 sequentially after the secondary liquid reservoir 3. Preferably the mouthpiece 4 is arrangeable to the second ary liquid reservoir 3 as an additional step of the method. The third step of the method com prises connecting 102 of the primary liquid reservoir 2 to the secondary liquid reservoir 3. It is conceivable that the connecting 102 step comprises an interlocking step, wherein the primary 2 and secondary 3 liquid reservoirs are interlocked with each other.

It is also conceivable to connect 103 the mouthpiece 4 with the secondary liquid reservoir 3 as an additional step. As a last step, the installing step 104 is needed to install the primary 2 and secondary 3 liquid reservoirs together with the mouthpiece 4 in a housing 12 thereby manufacturing the aerosol generating device 1. Also it is conceivable that the method further comprises steps as providing and arranging of further electrical, electronical and/or mechani cal components of the device 1.

The applicant reserves his right to claim all features disclosed in the application document as being an essential feature of the invention, as long as they are new, individually or in combi nation, in view of the prior art. Furthermore, it is noted that in the figures features are described, which can be advantageous individually. Someone skilled in the art will directly recognize that a specific feature being disclosed in a figure can be advantageous also without the adoption of further features from this figure. Furthermore, someone skilled in the art will recognize that advantages can evolve from a combination of diverse features being disclosed in one or vari ous figures. List of reference symbols

1 aerosol generating device

2 primary liquid reservoir

3 secondary liquid reservoir

4 mouthpiece

4a outlet

4b inlet

5 aerosolisable liquid

6 aerosol generating unit

6a means for generating aerosol

7 volume

7a reduced volume

8 surrounding wall

8a bottom

9 opening

9a nozzle / valve

10 mouthpiece opening

11 connection means between primary and secondary liquid reservoir

12 housing of the device

11 full length

12 shortened length

If liquid flow path af aerosol flow path

100 providing the primary and secondary liquid reservoirs and the mouthpiece

101 arranging the primary liquid reservoir sequentially after the secondary liquid reservoir

102 connecting the primary liquid reservoir to the secondary liquid reservoir

103 connecting the secondary liquid reservoir to the mouthpiece

104 installing the primary and secondary liquid reservoirs and the mouthpiece in the hous ing

Claims

Aerosol generating device with an at least in part non-rigid e-liquid reservoir Claims

1. An aerosol generating device (1) comprising a primary liquid reservoir (2), a second ary liquid reservoir (3) and a mouthpiece (4) sequentially arranged one after another, wherein the primary liquid reservoir (2) comprises an aerosolisable liquid (5) which is transportable towards the secondary liquid reservoir (3) through at least one opening (9) thereby creating a liquid flow path (If), wherein the aerosol generating device (1) further comprises at least one aerosol generating unit (6) arranged in the liquid flow path (If) for generating inhalable aerosol which flows to the mouthpiece (4) thereby creating an aerosol flow path (af), characterized in that the primary liquid reservoir (2), which is mechanically deformable and/or extendable, comprises a variable volume (7) surrounded by an at least in part non-rigid surround ing wall (8), wherein the aerosolisable liquid is extractable to the aerosol generating unit (6) during pressurization of the primary liquid reservoir (2) and/or the primary liq uid reservoir (2) is refillable through the opening (9), wherein the aerosolisable liquid (5) occupies the entire volume (7) of the primary liquid reservoir (2) and/or the pri mary liquid reservoir (2) is sealed in gas-tight manner.

2. Aerosol generating device (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the primary liquid reservoir (2) is a flexible bag.

3. Aerosol generating device (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the surrounding wall (8) comprises a concertina bladder structure.

4. Aerosol generating device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the primary liquid reservoir (2) is a tube.

5. Aerosol generating device (1) according to claim 1, 2 or 4, characterized in that the surrounding wall (8) comprises a rigid cylindrical shape which is connected to a deformable and/or an adjustable bottom.

6. Aerosol generating device (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the opening (9) is a nozzle (9a), preferably a one way nozzle (9a), which seals the primary liquid reservoir (2) against the liquid flow path (If), wherein the nozzle (9) is a connection between the primary liquid reservoir (2) and the secondary liquid reservoir (3).

7. Aerosol generating device (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the aerosol generating unit (6) comprises means (6a) for generating aerosol, prefera bly a heater.

8. Aerosol generating device (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the aerosol generating unit (6) is arranged between the primary liquid reservoir (2) and the secondary liquid reservoir (3).

9. Aerosol generating device (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the secondary liquid reservoir (3) comprises at least one channel () which leads the generated aerosol from the aerosol generating unit (6) to the mouthpiece.

10. A primary liquid reservoir (2) of an aerosol generating device (l)according to claim 1, characterized by a variable volume (7) surrounded by an at least in part non-rigid surrounding wall (8) which is mechanically deformable and/or extendable, wherein the aerosolisable liquid is extractable and/or refillable of the primary liquid reservoir (2) through the opening (9) to the aerosol generating unit (6) during pressurization of the primary liquid reser- voir (2) , wherein the aerosolisable liquid (5) occupies the entire volume (7) of the pri mary liquid reservoir (2) and/or the primary liquid reservoir (2) is sealed in gas-tight manner

11. A method for manufacturing an aerosol generating device (1) comprising a primary liquid reservoir (2), a secondary liquid reservoir (3) and a mouthpiece (4), wherein the primary liquid reservoir (2) comprises an aerosolisable liquid (5) which is transporta ble towards the secondary liquid reservoir (3) through at least one opening (9) thereby creating a liquid flow path (If) comprising following steps: providing the primary and secondary liquid reservoirs (2, 3) and the mouth piece (4) ; arranging the primary liquid reservoir (2) sequentially after the secondary liq uid reservoir (3); connecting the primary liquid reservoir (2) to the secondary liquid reservoir (3) with the opening (9); connecting the secondary liquid reservoir (3) to the mouthpiece (4); installing the primary and secondary liquid reservoirs (2, 3) and the mouth piece (4) in a housing.

12. Method for manufacturing the aerosol generating device (1) according to claim 13, characterized by arranging an aerosol generating unit (6) at least in the secondary liquid reservoir (3).

13. Method for manufacturing the aerosol generating device (1) according to claim 12, characterized by arranging the aerosol generating unit (6) between the primary and the secondary liq uid reservoir (3).

14. A method for refilling the primary liquid reservoir (2) according to claimsl - 12 comprising following steps providing a refilling reservoir comprising an refillable aerosolisable liquid; arrange the refilling reservoir to the mouthpiece (4); applying pressure to the primary liquid reservoir (2) with the refilling reservoir, wherein the aerosolisable liquid flows from the refilling reservoir through the mouthpiece (4) to the opening (9).

15. An aerosol generating device (1) comprising a primary liquid reservoir (2), a second ary liquid reservoir (3) and a mouthpiece (4) sequentially arranged one after another, wherein the primary liquid reservoir (2) comprises an aerosolisable liquid (5) which is transportable towards the secondary liquid reservoir (3) through at least one opening (9) thereby creating a liquid flow path (If), wherein the aerosol generating device (1) further comprises at least one aerosol generating unit (6) arranged in the liquid flow path (If) for generating inhalable aerosol which flows to the mouthpiece (4) thereby creating an aerosol flow path (af), characterized in that the primary liquid reservoir (2), which is mechanically deformable and/or extendable, comprises a variable volume (7) surrounded by an at least in part non-rigid surround ing wall (8), wherein the aerosolisable liquid is extractable to the aerosol generating unit (6) during pressurization of the primary liquid reservoir (2) and/or the primary liq uid reservoir (2) is refillable through the opening (9), wherein the aerosolisable liquid (5) occupies the entire volume (7) of the primary liquid reservoir (2) and/or the pri mary liquid reservoir (2) is sealed in gas-tight manner, wherein the aerosol generating unit (6) is arranged between the primary liquid reservoir (2) and the secondary liquid reservoir (3).

16. Aerosol generating device (1) according to claim 15, characterized in that the aerosol generating unit represents an initial section of the aerosol flow path.

17. Aerosol generating device (1) according to claim 15 or 16, characterized in that the aerosol generating unit is arranged parallel to the opening of the primary liquid reservoir.

18. Aerosol generating device (1) according to claim 15 - 17, characterized in that the aerosol generating unit is formed as a heating ring, preferably comprising a nar row through-hole.

19. Aerosol generating device (1) according to claim 15 - 18, characterized in that the aerosol generating unit preferably seals the opening of the primary liquid reservoir in a one-way (single use) manner being in fluid connection to the mouthpiece and the secondary liquid reservoir.