Patent Application
20240277063
The present invention relates to an aerosol provision device for generating an aerosol from aerosol-generating material. The present invention also relates to an aerosol provision system comprising an aerosol provision device and an article comprising aerosol-generating material.
Smoking articles such as cigarettes, cigars and the like burn tobacco during use to create tobacco smoke. Attempts have been made to provide alternatives to these articles that burn tobacco by creating products that release compounds without burning. Examples of such products are heating devices which release compounds by heating, but not burning, the material. The material may be for example tobacco or other non-tobacco products, which may or may not contain nicotine.
According to an aspect, there is provided an aerosol provision device for generating an aerosol from aerosol-generating material comprising a receptacle defining a heating zone configured to receive at least a portion of an article comprising aerosol-generating material, and a heating element protruding into the heating zone and configured to heat the heating zone, wherein the heating element comprises an air path with an air outlet in fluid communication with the heating zone, and an airflow adjustment assembly arranged to vary air flow through the air outlet.
The airflow adjustment assembly may be configured to vary an available airflow area through the air outlet.
The air outlet may comprise an air aperture, and the airflow adjustment assembly may be configured to selectably at least limit air flow through the air aperture.
The air aperture may be a first air aperture, and the airflow adjustment assembly may comprise a second air aperture.
The airflow adjustment assembly may be configured to selectably at least limit air flow through the second air aperture.
The airflow adjustment assembly may be configured to alternately limit air flow through the first air aperture and the second air aperture.
The air outlet may comprise an array of air apertures. As used herein, the term ‘array of air apertures’ is intended to mean two or more air apertures.
The airflow adjustment assembly may comprise a barrier operable to selectably limit airflow through at least one air aperture. The barrier may be an internal barrier in the heating element.
The device may comprise an air inlet to the heating element, wherein the barrier is between the air inlet and the air outlet.
The airflow adjustment assembly may comprise a bore in the heating element and the barrier is movable in the bore to fluidly separate the bore into an air supply side in fluid communication in the heating element with the air inlet and a closed side which is fluidly isolated in the heating element from the air inlet.
The bore may extend longitudinally along the heating element.
The heating element may protrude from the receptacle at a distal end and may have a free end at a proximal end.
The air supply side may be at the distal end. The air inlet may communicate with the bore at the distal end.
The air supply side may be at the proximal end.
The device may comprise an air passage configured to supply air along the heating element to the air supply side at the proximal end.
The airflow adjustment assembly may comprise a drive member arranged to move the barrier in the bore, wherein the air passage extends along the drive member.
The air passage may extend through the barrier. The air passage may extend from the distal end of the heating element.
The barrier may comprise a piston with a piston head slidable in the bore.
The piston may comprise a piston head configured to selectably block one or more outlet apertures
The piston may comprise a piston head configured to vary a flow area through the air outlet
The barrier may be an external barrier around the heating element.
The barrier may comprise a collar around the heating element.
The collar may be arranged to fluidly separate the air apertures into an air supply side in which at least one of the air apertures is in fluid communication with the heating zone, and a closed side in which at least one of the air apertures is fluidly isolated from the heating zone.
The heating element may be slidable in the collar.
The receptacle may comprise the collar. The receptacle may comprise a base. The base may comprise the collar.
The airflow adjustment assembly may comprise an actuator to move one of the barrier and the heating element relative to each other.
The actuator may be arranged to move the barrier relative to the heating element.
The actuator may be arranged to move the heating element relative to the barrier.
The actuator may be arranged to adjust the extent to which the heating element protrudes in the heating zone.
The heating element may be hollow. The heating element may be tubular.
The heating element may comprise a heating member.
The heating member may comprise a peripheral wall. The heating member may comprise a closed end.
The array of air apertures may be distributed in an axial arrangement along the heating element.
At least a first air aperture of the array of air aperture may differ in flow area from at least a second air aperture of the array of air apertures.
The flow area of the array of air apertures may increase in a longitudinal direction of the heating element.
The flow area of the array of air apertures may increase from the distal end to the proximal end.
The flow area of the array of air apertures may increase from the proximal end to the distal end.
The concentration of air apertures of the array of air apertures may increase from the distal end to the proximal end.
The concentration of air apertures of the array of air apertures may decrease from the distal end to the proximal end.
The device may comprise a first wall region of the heating element comprising the array of air apertures, and a second wall region of the heating element free of the array of air apertures.
The first region may be a band. The second region may be a band.
The air outlet may comprise a mesh. The air outlet may comprise an array of perforations. The or each air aperture may be elongate.
The air apertures may extend in a longitudinal direction of the heating element.
The device may comprise a seal arranged to seal between the article and at least one of the receptacle and the heating element.
The seal may extend around the heating element.
The seal may comprise at least one of a lip seal, an o-ring, a face seal, a chamfer, a collar, a shoulder, and a protrusion.
The heating element may comprise heating material that is heatable by penetration with a varying magnetic field.
The heating material may define the air path.
The receptacle may be free from heating material that is heatable by penetration with a varying magnetic field.
The device may comprise a magnetic field generator including an inductor coil configured to generate a varying magnetic field.
The inductor coil may be helical. The inductor coil may be a flat coil.
The inductor coil may at least partially encircle the heating zone.
The inductor coil may at least partially extend in the heating element.
The heating element may comprise part of a resistive heating arrangement.
The heating element protruding into the heating zone may be configured to be heated to a temperature sufficient to generate aerosol from the aerosol-generating material.
According to an aspect, there is provided an aerosol provision device for generating an aerosol from aerosol-generating material comprising: a receptacle defining a heating zone configured to receive at least a portion of an article comprising aerosol-generating material, a heating element protruding into the heating zone and configured to heat the heating zone, wherein an air path is defined through the heating element.
The heating element may protrude into the heating zone is configured to be heated to a temperature sufficient to generate aerosol from the aerosol-generating material.
The air path may communicate between external to the heating zone and the heating zone.
According to an aspect, there is provided an aerosol provision system comprising the aerosol provision device of any of the above, and an article comprising aerosol generating material.
According to an aspect, there is provided an aerosol-provision system comprising: an article comprising aerosol-generating material; and an aerosol provision device for heating aerosol-generating material comprising a receptacle defining a heating zone configured to receive at least a portion of an article comprising aerosol-generating material; and a heating element protruding in the heating zone and configured to heat the heating zone, wherein an air path is defined through the heating element.
According to an aspect, there is provided an aerosol-provision system comprising an article comprising aerosol-generating material, an aerosol provision device for heating aerosol-generating material comprising a receptacle defining a heating zone configured to receive at least a portion of an article comprising aerosol-generating material, a heating element protruding in the heating zone and configured to heat the heating zone, wherein the heating element comprises an air path with an air outlet in fluid communication with the heating zone, and an airflow adjustment assembly arranged to vary air flow through the air outlet.
The article may comprise a pre-formed bore configured to receive the heating element.
The article may be a consumable.
The heating element may be removable from the heating zone. The heating element may be interchangeable.
The heating element may upstand from the base. The heating element may comprise a sharp edge or point at a free end. The heating element may be a pin or blade. The heating element may be configured to pierce the article received by the heating zone.
The heating element and receptacle may be co-axial.
The apparatus of this aspect can include one or more, or all, of the features described above, as appropriate.
The aerosol generating device may be a non-combustible aerosol generating device.
The device may be a tobacco heating device, also known as a heat-not-burn device.
The aerosol generating material may be non-liquid aerosol generating material.
The article may be dimensioned to be at least partially received within the heating zone.
According to an aspect, there is provided an aerosol generating device for generating an aerosol from aerosol-generating material comprising: a receptacle defining a heating zone configured to receive at least a portion of an article comprising aerosol-generating material, and a heating element arranged to heat the heating zone.
According to an aspect, there is provided an aerosol-generating system comprising an article comprising aerosol-generating material; an aerosol generating device for heating aerosol-generating material comprising a heating zone configured to receive at least a portion of the article; and a heating element.
According to an aspect, there is provided an aerosol generating device for generating an aerosol from aerosol generating material comprising a heating element configured to be received within at least a portion of an article comprising aerosol generating material, and a base from which the heating element protrudes; wherein the heating element comprises an air path with an air outlet in fluid communication within an outer surface of the heating element, and an airflow adjustment assembly arranged to vary air flow through the air outlet.
The device may comprise a heating zone around the heating element configured to at least partially receive the article comprising aerosol generating material.
The air outlet may be in fluid communication with the heating zone.
The device may comprise a housing, wherein the housing defines the base.
At least part of the heating element may be exposed.
The base may comprise an upstanding rim extending around and spaced from a base end of the heating element.
The heating element may be configured to be heated to a temperature sufficient to generator aerosol from the aerosol generating material
The airflow adjustment assembly may be configured to vary an available airflow area through the air outlet.
The air outlet may comprise an air aperture, and the airflow adjustment assembly may be configured to selectably at least limit air flow through the air aperture.
The air aperture may be a first air aperture, and the airflow adjustment assembly may comprise a second air aperture.
The airflow adjustment assembly may be configured to selectably at least limit air flow through the second air aperture.
The airflow adjustment assembly may be configured to alternately limit air flow through the first air aperture and the second air aperture.
The air outlet may comprise an array of air apertures. As used herein, the term ‘array of air apertures’ is intended to mean two or more air apertures.
The airflow adjustment assembly may comprise a barrier operable to selectably limit airflow through at least one air aperture. The barrier may be an internal barrier in the heating element.
The device may comprise an air inlet to the heating element, wherein the barrier is between the air inlet and the air outlet.
The airflow adjustment assembly may comprise a bore in the heating element and the barrier is movable in the bore to fluidly separate the bore into an air supply side in fluid communication in the heating element with the air inlet and a closed side which is fluidly isolated in the heating element from the air inlet.
The bore may extend longitudinally along the heating element.
The heating element may protrude from the base at a distal end and may have a free end at a proximal end.
The air supply side may be at the distal end. The air inlet may communicate with the bore at the distal end.
The air supply side may be at the proximal end.
The device may comprise an air passage configured to supply air along the heating element to the air supply side at the proximal end.
The airflow adjustment assembly may comprise a drive member arranged to move the barrier in the bore, wherein the air passage extends along the drive member.
The air passage may extend through the barrier. The air passage may extend from the distal end of the heating element.
The barrier may comprise a piston with a piston head slidable in the bore.
The piston may comprise a piston head configured to selectably block one or more outlet apertures.
The piston may comprise a piston head configured to vary a flow area through the air outlet.
The barrier may be an external barrier around the heating element.
The barrier may comprise a collar around the heating element.
The collar may be arranged to fluidly separate the air apertures into an air supply side in which at least one of the air apertures is in fluid communication with the heating zone, and a closed side in which at least one of the air apertures is fluidly isolated from the heating zone.
The heating element may be slidable in the collar.
The base may comprise the collar.
The airflow adjustment assembly may comprise an actuator to move one of the barrier and the heating element relative to each other.
The actuator may be arranged to move the heating element relative to the barrier.
The actuator may be arranged to adjust the extent to which the heating element protrudes in the heating zone.
The heating element may be hollow. The heating element may be tubular.
The heating element may comprise a heating member.
The heating member may comprise a peripheral wall. The heating member may comprise a closed end.
The array of air apertures may be distributed axially along the heating element. The array of air apertures may be distributed in an axial arrangement along the heating element.
At least a first air aperture of the array of air aperture may differ in flow area from at least a second air aperture of the array of air apertures.
The flow area of the array of apertures may increase in a longitudinal direction of the heating element.
The flow area of the array of air apertures may increase from the distal end to the proximal end.
The flow area of the array of air apertures may increase from the proximal end to the distal end.
The concentration of air apertures of the array of air apertures may decrease from the distal end to the proximal end.
The device may comprise a first wall region of the heating element comprising the array of air apertures, and a second wall region of the heating element free of the array of air apertures.
The first region may be a band. The second region may be a band.
The air outlet may comprise a mesh. The air outlet may comprise an array of perforations. The or each air aperture may be elongate.
The air apertures may extend in a longitudinal direction of the heating element.
The device may comprise a seal arranged to seal between the article and at least one of the base and the heating element.
The seal may extend around the heating element.
The seal may comprise at least one of a lip seal, an o-ring, a face seal, a chamfer, a collar, a shoulder, and a protrusion.
The heating element may comprise heating material that is heatable by penetration with a varying magnetic field.
The heating material may define the air path.
The heating zone may be free from heating material that is heatable by penetration with a varying magnetic field.
The device may comprise a magnetic field generator including an inductor coil configured to generate a varying magnetic field.
The inductor coil may be helical. The inductor coil may be a flat coil.
The inductor coil may be at least partially encircle the heating zone.
The inductor coil may at least partially extend in the heating element
The heating element may comprise part of a resistive heating arrangement.
The heating element protruding into the heating zone may be configured to be heated to a temperature sufficient to generate aerosol from the aerosol-generating material.
According to an aspect, there is provided an aerosol generating system comprising an article comprising aerosol generating material, and an aerosol provision device for generating an aerosol from aerosol-generating material comprising a heating element configured to be received within at least a portion of an article comprising aerosol-generating material, and a base from which the heating element protrudes, wherein the heating element comprises an air path with an air outlet in fluid communication with an outer surface of the heating element, and an airflow adjustment assembly arranged to vary air flow through the air outlet.
The device may comprise a heating zone around the heating element configured to at least partially receive the article comprising aerosol generating material.
The article may comprise a pre-formed bore configured to receive the heating element.
The article may be a consumable.
The article may comprise an engaging feature configured to engage with the heating element.
The heating element may be removable from device. The heating element may be interchangeable.
The heating element may upstand from the base. The heating element may comprise a sharp edge or point at a free end. The heating element may be a pin or blade. The heating element may be configured to pierce the article received by the heating zone.
The apparatus of this aspect can include one or more, or all, of the features described above, as appropriate.
The aerosol generating device may be a non-combustible aerosol generating device.
The device may be a tobacco heating device, also known as a heat-not-burn device.
The aerosol generating material may be non-liquid aerosol generating material.
According to an aspect, there is provided an aerosol generating device for generating an aerosol from aerosol generating material, the device comprising a housing, an exposed heating arrangement protruding from the housing configured to be received within an aerosol generating article and heat the aerosol generating article. The heating arrangement may comprise a heating element protruding from the housing configured to be received within an aerosol generating article.
The housing may comprise a base from which the heating element protrudes.
The heating element may comprise an air path with an air outlet in fluid communication with the heating zone.
The heating element may comprise an airflow adjustment assembly arranged to vary air flow through the air outlet.
The airflow adjustment assembly is configured to vary an available airflow area through the air outlet.
The air outlet may comprise an air aperture, and the airflow adjustment assembly is configured to selectably at least limit air flow through the air aperture.
A heating zone may extend around the exposed heating arrangement and be configured to at least partially receive the article comprising aerosol-generating material.
According to an aspect, there is provided an aerosol generating system comprising the aerosol provision device according to the above, and an article comprising aerosol generating material.
The apparatus of these aspects can include one or more, or all, of the features described above, as appropriate.
Embodiments will now be described, by way of example only, and with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:
As used herein, the term “aerosol-generating material is a material that is capable of generating aerosol, for example when heated, irradiated or energized in any other way.
Aerosol-generating material may, for example, be in the form of a solid, liquid or gel which may or may not contain an active substance and/or flavorants. Aerosol-generating material may include any plant based material such as tobacco-containing material and may, for example, include one or more of tobacco, tobacco derivatives, expanded tobacco, reconstituted tobacco or tobacco substitutes. Aerosol-generating material also may include other, non-tobacco, products, which, depending on the product, may or may not contain nicotine. Aerosol-generating material may for example be in the form of a solid, a liquid, a gel, a wax or the like. Aerosol-generating material may for example also be a combination or a blend of materials. Aerosol-generating material may also be known as “smokable material”.
The aerosol-generating material may comprise a binder and an aerosol former. Optionally, an active and/or filler may also be present. Optionally, a solvent, such as water, is also present and one or more other components of the aerosol-generating material may or may not be soluble in the solvent. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material is substantially free from botanical material. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material is substantially tobacco free.
The aerosol-generating material may comprise or be an “amorphous solid”. The amorphous solid may be a “monolithic solid”. In some embodiments, the amorphous solid may be a dried gel. The amorphous solid is a solid material that may retain some fluid, such as liquid, within it. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material may, for example, comprise from about 50 wt %, 60 wt % or 70 wt % of amorphous solid, to about 90 wt %, 95 wt % or 100 wt % of amorphous solid.
The aerosol-generating material may comprise an aerosol-generating film. The aerosol-generating film may comprise or be a sheet, which may optionally be shredded to form a shredded sheet. The aerosol-generating sheet or shredded sheet may be substantially tobacco free.
Apparatus is known that heats aerosol generating material to volatilize at least one component of the aerosol generating material, typically to form an aerosol which can be inhaled, without burning or combusting the aerosol generating material. Such apparatus is sometimes described as an “aerosol generating device”, an “aerosol provision device”, a “heat-not-burn device”, a “tobacco heating product device” or a “tobacco heating device” or similar. Similarly, there are also so-called e-cigarette devices, which typically vaporize an aerosol generating material in the form of a liquid, which may or may not contain nicotine. The aerosol generating material may be in the form of or be provided as part of a rod, cartridge or cassette or the like which can be inserted into the apparatus. A heater for heating and volatilizing the aerosol generating material may be provided as a “permanent” part of the apparatus.
An aerosol generating device can receive an article comprising aerosol generating material for heating. An “article” in this context is a component that includes or contains in use the aerosol generating material, which is heated to volatilize the aerosol generating material, and optionally other components in use. A user may insert the article into the aerosol provision device before it is heated to produce an aerosol, which the user subsequently inhales. The article may be, for example, of a predetermined or specific size that is configured to be placed within a heating chamber of the device which is sized to receive the article.
The device 101 comprises a housing 103 which surrounds and houses various components of the device 101. The housing 103 is elongate. The device 101 has an opening 104 in one end, through which the article 110 can be inserted for heating by the device 101. The article 110 may be fully or partially inserted into the device 101 for heating by the device 101.
In various embodiments, the device 101 is free from an opening. In such an arrangement, the device 101, or a component of, may be partially received within at least a portion of the article 110.
The device 101 may comprise a user-operable control element 106, such as a button or switch, which operates the device 101 when operated, e.g. pressed. For example, a user may activate the device 101 by pressing the switch 106.
The device 101 defines a longitudinal axis 102, along which an article 110 may extend when inserted into the device 101. The opening 104 is aligned on the longitudinal axis 102.
As shown in
The power source 204 may be, for example, a battery, such as a rechargeable battery or a non-rechargeable battery. Examples of suitable batteries include, for example, a lithium battery (such as a lithium-ion battery), a nickel battery (such as a nickel-cadmium battery), and an alkaline battery.
The power source 204 may be electrically coupled to the heating assembly 201 to supply electrical power when required and under control of the controller 202 to heat the aerosol generating material. The control circuit 202 may be configured to activate and deactivate the heating assembly 201 based on a user operating the control element 106. For example, the controller 202 may activate the heating assembly 201 in response to a user operating the switch 106.
The end of the device 101 closest to the opening 104 may be known as the proximal end (or mouth end) 107 of the device 101 because, in use, it is closest to the mouth of the user. In use, a user inserts an article 110 into the opening 104, operates the user control 106 to begin heating the aerosol generating material and draws on the aerosol generated in the device. This causes the aerosol to flow through the article 110 along a flow path towards the proximal end of the device 101.
The other end of the device furthest away from the opening 104 may be known as the distal end 108 of the device 101 because, in use, it is the end furthest away from the mouth of the user. As a user draws on the aerosol generated in the device, the aerosol flows in a direction towards the proximal end of the device 101. The terms proximal and distal as applied to features of the device 101 will be described by reference to the relative positioning of such features with respect to each other in a proximal-distal direction along the axis 102.
The heating assembly 201 may comprise various components to heat the aerosol generating material of the article 110 via an inductive heating process. Induction heating is a process of heating an electrically conducting heating element (such as a susceptor) by electromagnetic induction. An induction heating assembly may comprise an inductive element, for example, one or more inductor coils, and a device for passing a varying electric current, such as an alternating electric current, through the inductive element. The varying electric current in the inductive element produces a varying magnetic field. The varying magnetic field penetrates a susceptor (heating element) suitably positioned with respect to the inductive element, and generates eddy currents inside the susceptor. The susceptor has electrical resistance to the eddy currents, and hence the flow of the eddy currents against this resistance causes the susceptor to be heated by Joule heating. In cases where the susceptor comprises ferromagnetic material such as iron, nickel or cobalt, heat may also be generated by magnetic hysteresis losses in the susceptor, i.e. by the varying orientation of magnetic dipoles in the magnetic material as a result of their alignment with the varying magnetic field. In inductive heating, as compared to heating by conduction for example, heat is generated inside the susceptor, allowing for rapid heating. Further, there need not be any physical contact between the inductive element and the susceptor, allowing for enhanced freedom in construction and application.
The apparatus 200 includes a heating chamber 211 configured and dimensioned to receive the article 110 to be heated. The heating chamber 211 defines a heating zone 215. In the present example, the article 110 is generally cylindrical, and the heating chamber 211 is correspondingly generally cylindrical in shape. However, other shapes would be possible. The heating chamber 211 is formed by a receptacle 212. The receptacle 212 includes an end wall 213 and a peripheral wall 214. The end wall 213 acts as a base of the receptacle 212. The receptacle 212 in embodiments is a one-piece component. In other embodiments the receptacle 212 comprises two or more components.
The heating chamber 211 is defined by the inner surfaces of the receptacle 212. The receptacle 212 acts as a support member. The receptacle 212 comprises a generally tubular member. The receptacle 212 extends along and around and substantially coaxial with the longitudinal axis 102 of the device 101. However, other shapes would be possible. The receptacle 212 (and so heating zone 215) is open at its proximal end such that an article 110 inserted into the opening 104 of the device 101 can be received by the heating chamber 211 therethrough. The receptacle 212 is closed at its distal end by the end wall 213. The device 101 may comprise one or more air conduits 251 that form part of an air path as described in detail below. In use, the article 110 overlaps the air conduits 251. Air may pass through the one or more conduits forming part of the air path, into the article 110, and flow through the article 110 towards the proximal end of the device 101.
The receptacle 212 is formed free of material that is heatable by penetration with a varying magnetic field. The receptacle 212 may be formed from an insulating material. For example, the receptacle 212 may be formed from a plastic, such as polyether ether ketone (PEEK). Other suitable materials are possible. The receptacle 212 may be formed from such materials ensure that the assembly remains rigid/solid when the heating assembly 201 is operated. Using a non-metallic material for the receptacle 212 may assist with restricting heating of other components of the device 101. The receptacle 212 may be formed from a rigid material to aid support of other components.
Other arrangements for the receptacle 212 would be possible. For example, in an embodiment the end wall 213 is defined by part of the heating assembly 201. In embodiments, the receptacle 212 comprises material that is heatable by penetration with a varying magnetic field.
As illustrated in
The heating zone 215 is a zone or volume into which an article may be received for heating by the device 101. The heating zone 215 is defined therefore at least in part by the heating assembly 201. The heating zone 215 is a space adjacent to the heating element 220. In embodiments comprising the heating chamber 211, such as shown in
As illustrated in
In embodiments, the heating element forms part of a heating arrangement. The heating arrangement comprises the heating element protruding from the base. In other embodiments, the heating element is in the article, and the heating arrangement comprises a protruding member protruding from the base. The heating element or protruding member in embodiments comprises the magnetic field generator configured to generate a varying magnetic field including an inductor coil. The heating arrangement in embodiments is an inductive heating arrangement. The heating arrangement in embodiments is a resistive heating arrangement. The heating element 220 is heatable to heat the heating zone 215. The heating element 220 is an induction heating element. That is, the heating element 220 comprises a susceptor that is heatable by penetration with a varying magnetic field. The susceptor comprises electrically conducting material suitable for heating by electromagnetic induction. For example, the susceptor may be formed from a carbon steel. It will be understood that other suitable materials may be used, for example a ferromagnetic material such as iron, nickel or cobalt.
The heating assembly 201 comprises a magnetic field generator 240. The magnetic field generator 240 is configured to generate one or more varying magnetic fields that penetrate the susceptor so as to cause heating in the susceptor. The magnetic field generator 240 includes an inductor coil arrangement 241. The inductor coil arrangement 241 comprises an inductor coil 242, acting as an inductor element. The inductor coil 242 is a helical coil, however other arrangements are envisaged such as a spiral coil. In embodiments, the inductor coil arrangement 241 comprises two or more inductor coils 242. The two or more inductor coils in embodiments are disposed adjacent to each other and may be aligned co-axially along the axis.
In some examples, in use, the inductor coil is configured to heat the heating element 220 to a temperature of between about 200° C. and about 350° ° C., such as between about 240° C. and about 300° C., or between about 250° C. and about 280° C.
The heating element 220 extends in the heating zone 215. The heating element 220, acting as a protruding element, protrudes in the heating zone 215. The heating element 220 upstands from the base.
In embodiments, the base is formed by a feature other than the end wall 213 of the receptacle.
The heating element 220 is spaced from the peripheral wall 214. The heating assembly 201 is configured such that when an article 110 is received by the heating chamber 211, the heating portion 221 of the heating element 220 extends into a distal end of the article 110. The heating element 220 is positioned, in use, within the article 110. The heating element 220 is configured to heat aerosol generating material of an article 110 from within, and for this reason is referred to as an inner heating element.
The heating element 220 extends into the heating chamber 211 from the distal end of the heating chamber 211 along the longitudinal axis 102 of the device (in the axial direction). In embodiments the heating element 220 extends into the heating chamber 211 spaced from the axis 102. The heating element 220 may be off-axis or non-parallel to the axis 102. Although one heating element 220 is shown, it will be understood that in embodiments, the heating assembly 201 comprises a plurality of heating elements 220. Such heating elements in embodiments are spaced from but parallel to each other.
The inductor coil 241 is disposed external to the receptacle 212. The inductor coil 241 encircles the heating zone 215. The helical inductor coil 241 extends around at least a portion of the heating element 220, acting as a susceptor. The helical inductor coil 241 is configured to generate a varying magnetic field that penetrates the heating element 220. The helical inductor coil 241 is arranged coaxially with the heating chamber 211 and longitudinal axis 101. In embodiments, the or one coil is at the distal end of the receptacle 212. The coil, for example, is a flat spiral coil.
The inductor coil 241 is a helical coil comprising electrically-conductive material, such as copper. The coil is formed from wire, such as Litz wire, which is wound helically around a support member (not shown). The support member is formed by the receptacle 212 or by another component. In embodiments, the support member is omitted. The support member is tubular. The coil 241 defines a generally tubular shape. The inductor coil 241 has a generally circular profile. In other embodiments, the inductor coil 241 may have a different shape, such as generally square, rectangular or elliptical. The coil width may increase or decrease along its length.
Other types of inductor coil may be used, for example a flat spiral coil. With a helical coil it is possible to define an elongate inductor zone in which to receive a susceptor, which provides an elongate length of susceptor to be received in the elongate inductor zone. The length of susceptor subjected to varying magnetic field may be maximised. By providing an enclosed inductor zone with a helical coil arrangement it is possible to aid the flux concentration of the magnetic field.
Litz wire comprises a plurality of individual wires which are individually insulated and are twisted together to form a single wire. Litz wires are designed to reduce the skin effect losses in a conductor. Other wire types could be used, such as solid. The configuration of the helical inductor coil may vary along its axial length. For example, the inductor coil, or each inductor coil, may have substantially the same or different values of inductance, axial lengths, radii, pitches, numbers of turns, etc.
The heating element 220 protrudes in the heating zone 215 and is received by the article 110.
The heating element 220 extends in the heating zone 215 from the distal end of the receptacle 212. The heating element 220 upstands from the end wall 213. The heating element 220 comprises a heating member 224. The heating member 224 is elongate. The heating element 220 comprises a base end 221 and an opposing free end 222. The heating portion 221 is a pin or column. Other shapes are envisaged, for example the heating portion 221 in embodiments is a blade. The heating element 220 in embodiments is a cylinder having a circular cross section, or an elliptic cylinder, a hyperbolic cylinder or a parabolic cylinder. Other cross sectional shapes, configured to be used with articles having a corresponding article bore, are anticipated. In embodiments, the heating element is tapered. The heating element may comprise one or more tapered portions. The heating element may taper towards the free end.
The heating element 220 comprises an outer surface 223. The outer surface 223 extends around the heating element 220. The outer surface 223 extends between the base end 221 and the free end 222. The heating element 220 is generally cylindrical although other shapes are envisaged. The outer surface 223 defines an outer side of the heating element 220.
The article 110 comprises an article bore 113. The article bore 113 is pre-formed in the article 110. The article bore 113 is formed in embodiments by a tubular portion of the article 110. The article bore 113 in embodiments extends partially along the longitudinal axis of the article. The article bore 113 comprises an inner surface 114. The article bore 113 has a closed end 115. The heating member 224 is sized to be received in the bore 113. The heating member 224 and article bore 113 are complimentary sized to form a slide fit. The inner surface 114 of the article bore is configured to form a close contact with the heating member 224 to maximise heat transfer between the heating element 220 and the article 110.
The heating element 220 comprises a seal 300. The seal 300 is arranged to seal with the article 110 in the heating chamber 211. The seal 300 seals around the heating member 224. The seal 300 may form part of the receptacle 212. The seal 300 forms a sealing action between the article 110 and the heating element 220. The seal 300 acts to isolate an airflow path through the article from outside the article. The seal comprises a sealing face 301. The seal 300 comprises a chamfer 302. Other configurations such as a face seal, lip seal, step and O-ring are anticipated.
The free end 222 in the present embodiment is blunt. Referring to
An air flow arrangement 250 is provided. The air flow arrangement 250 forms part of an air path through the heating zone 215. This air flow arrangement 250 provides an airflow path such that when the device is in use, when the user inhales, air flows from a location external to the device and through the heating zone 215, thereby allowing the user to inhale the aerosol in the heating zone 215 which has been produced by the aerosol-generating material.
The air flow arrangement 250 defines part of the air path along which air may pass into the heating chamber 211. The air flows through the article in the heating chamber 211 towards the proximal end of the device 101. The air flow arrangement 250 comprises the air conduit 251 in the heating element 220. In an embodiment, at least one further air conduit is located in the end wall 213 (not shown). The air conduit 251 communicates external to the receptacle 212 with the heating chamber 211.
An air outlet 252 is formed in the heating element 220. The air outlet 252 comprises an array of apertures 253 in the outer surface 223 of the heating element 220. The number of apertures 253 may vary, and may comprise a single aperture. In the embodiment in
The configuration and arrangement of the air flow arrangement 250, for example the array of apertures, may differ in embodiments. Although four apertures 253 are shown, the array of apertures 253 in embodiments is two or more apertures. In some embodiments, the air outlet 252 comprises a single air aperture.
Referring to
The heating element 220 has an air inlet 262. Air is supplied to the air conduit 251 through the air inlet 262. Air flow into the heating element 220 is defined by arrows 263. The air inlet 262 provides an air path from a location external to the receptacle 212, through the heating element 220, and out of the air outlet 252 in the heating element 220 into the heating chamber 211. Air may pass through a passage (not shown) formed in the body assembly 210 of the device, from outside of the body assembly 210, to fluidly communicate with the air conduit 251 thereby providing air to the air conduit 251.
In some embodiments, two or more air conduits are provided in the heating element 220. In such an embodiment, two separate passages may be defined in the heating element 220. Each air conduit has one or more separate air inlets and one or more separate air outlets. As such, different air flow characteristics may be supplied at different regions of the heating element and therefore to different parts of the article. Each of the plurality of conduits may be fluidly isolated from one another in the heating element 220.
The heating element 220 comprises a side wall 264 and an end wall 265. The end wall 265 forms a closed end of the air conduit 251. It will be understood that the air conduit 251 is formed by a cavity, such as a bore or passage, in the heating member 224. As such, the air conduit 251 may extend only part way along the length of the heating member 224.
The heating member 224 is formed from a heating material which is heatable by penetration with a varying magnetic field. As such, the heating member 224 acts as a susceptor. The entire heating member 224 may be formed from the heating material, such that the conduit and air outlet are formed by the material. In embodiments the heating member 224 comprises a support and a layer of heating material, such that the conduit and/or air outlet is formed by the support.
The air outlet 252 comprises the array of apertures 253. Each aperture 253 extends through the heating member 224 from an inner side to an outer side. The apertures 253 are formed through the side wall of the heating member 224.
As shown in
In embodiments, the size and location of the apertures 253 is selected to provide different airflow configurations. For example, different airflow may be provided to different portions of the heating chamber 211. The apertures 253 can be selected to provide a particular inhalation experience for the user. For example, the configuration of the apertures may affect the resistance to inhalation that the device provides.
Particular patterns or arrangements of the apertures may provide different sensations to the user when they inhale, which may be desirable to enhance the user experience of the device. It may also be advantageous to have a higher density or available area of apertures 253 per unit area in particular locations of the heating chamber 211, so that particular portions of the aerosol-generating material are induced to produce aerosol before other portions of the aerosol-generating material. This may affect, for example, delivery of aerosol from the aerosol-generating material in use and thus may provide longer-lasting aerosol generation, or a more intense delivery of aerosol. The aerosol-generating material may also be designed to vary in consistency or material properties, for example may comprise different sections made up of different material, and the configuration of the apertures 253 may be provided to cater for the different material properties in different sections as appropriate.
There are three sets of apertures 253a, 253b, 253c in the heating element 220. Each set of apertures 253a, 253b, 253c is arranged as a circumferential band of apertures. The number of sets may vary and may be more or fewer than three sets, for example
In the example shown in
The heating element 220 illustrated in
The heating element 220 has an air outlet 271 comprising the array of apertures 272. The array of apertures 272 have a linear arrangement in a direction along the length of the heating element 220. The flow area of the apertures 272 decreases in a direction from the distal end to the proximal end. In the present embodiment, the diameter of each hole forming an aperture varies. The diameter of adjacent holes decreases in a direction from the distal end to the proximal end. A distal aperture 272a nearest to the base end 221 of the heating element 220 has a greater flow area than an adjacent proximal aperture 272b. Such a change in flow area of apertures 272a, 272b, 272c, 272d, 272e continues in the axial direction such that the aperture 272e nearest to the opposing free end 222 of the heating element 220 defines the smallest flow area of the array of apertures 272. In this embodiment, the apertures 272 decrease in flow area sequentially or progressively, in a direction from the distal end to the proximal end. When the apertures 272 have a circular cross-section, as shown in
In other embodiments, the apertures 272 comprise a plurality of groups of apertures with each aperture in the group having the same flow area within each group. For example, in one embodiment six apertures are provided in each linear arrangement, where two apertures closer to the base end 221 have a smaller flow area than two apertures closer to the opposing free end 222, and a mid group of two apertures between the free end 222 and the base end 221 may have a flow area larger than the apertures closer to the free end 222 and smaller than the apertures closer to the base end 221. Different numbers of apertures and groups of apertures may be provided.
The air outlet 271 comprises multiple sets of apertures 272 in linear arrangements, with the sets spaced equidistantly relative to one another about the circumference of the heating element 220. The air outlet 271 also in embodiments comprises apertures which are not in a linear arrangement as shown but which nonetheless provide a greater available aperture area nearer to the base end 221 than the free end 221. For example, in embodiments the air outlet 252 comprises a greater density of apertures proximal to the base end 221 than the free end 222 and additionally or alternatively may comprise larger apertures nearer the base end 221 such that there is a greater area of apertures per unit area of the heating element 220 nearer to the base end 221 compared with the free end 222.
Arrangements with smaller flow area and/or a lower density of apertures 272 in the heating element 220 proximal to the free end 222 (such as that illustrated in
The apertures of the array of apertures 276 each have the same flow area. In embodiments, the flow areas may differ. The apertures 283 are arranged along the length of the heating element 220. The apertures 276 are arranged to be arranged closer together in a proximal region 284 towards the free end 222 of the heating element 220. That is, there is a higher density of apertures 276 in the proximal region 284 region. The apertures 276 are arranged further apart in a distal region 285 towards the base end 221. That is, there is a lower density of apertures 276 nearer the base end 221 of the heating element 220.
It will be understood that the flow area and/or density of the array of apertures may progressively vary along the length of the heating element 220. The flow area and/or density of the array of apertures may progressively vary in a circumferential direction around the heating element 220.
Arrangements with apertures having a greater flow area and/or a greater density of apertures in the heating element 220 towards the free end 222 of the heating element (such as those illustrated in
Providing a heating element 220 with apertures which vary in size along the length of the heating element 220, such as those shown in
However, in
The embodiment in
By providing at least one aperture free region it is possible to aid control of airflow into the article. In embodiments it is also possible to concentrate the flow of air into discrete areas of the article. The or each aperture-free region is non-permeable.
As shown in
Although the heating elements 220 described with reference to
The heating element 220 is configured to heat aerosol generating material of an article 110 sufficiently to generate aerosol from the aerosol-generating material, without requiring heating from another source.
The heating element 220 illustrated in
The airflow adjustment assembly 400 is configured to vary the available airflow area into the heating zone 215. The assembly 400 is arranged to cover or expose at least some of the available airflow area to vary to air flow. The heating element 220 is arranged to be movable along its longitudinal axis A relative to the receptacle 212. As such, the extent to which the heating element 220 projects into the receptacle 212 can be varied to enable control of air through.
As shown in
The device 101 comprises a space for example a slot (not shown) formed within the body assembly 210 which is shaped to accommodate the heating element 220. This allows the heating element 220 to translate along its longitudinal axis.
In embodiments, the device 101 is configured to allow the heating element 220 to be manually moved along its longitudinal axis by the user, for example a switch may be used, acting as an actuator. In other embodiments, a mechanised arrangement, acting as an actuator 420, for example an electric motor is operable to activate the airflow adjustment assembly 400. In such an arrangement, the motor is engaged to move a protruding portion of the heating element 220 into or out of the receptacle 212.
The device comprises a seal 404. The seal 404 in embodiments generally corresponds to the seal described above. The seal 404 extends at least partially around the base of the heating element 220. The heating element 220 and the seal 404 maybe in sliding engagement, and the seal 404 may be mounted to distal end of the receptacle 212. As the heating element 220 translates along its longitudinal axis, the seal 404 slidably seals the heating element 220 with the receptacle 212. The heating element 220 slides through the seal 404. The seal 404 restricts air flow from escaping into the receptacle from between the heating element 220 and the body assembly 210. The seal 404 acts as a collar around the heating element 220. In embodiments, the seal 404 acts as a barrier which selectably limits airflow through at least one air aperture in dependence on the position of the heating element 220. In embodiments, the base of the receptacle 212, for example a rim of an aperture through which the heating element 220 protrudes acts as the collar.
The airflow adjustment assembly 400 illustrated in
The flow adjustment assembly 400 comprises a piston 405. The piston 405 extends in a bore 410 of the heating element 220. The piston 405 is configured to translate along a longitudinal axis of the heating element 220 to allow the piston 405 to translate in the bore 410 (shown by arrows 406). A head 408 of the piston 405 is shaped to complement an inner facing surface 412 of the heating element 220. The head 408 of the piston may comprise a slidable seal around its circumference (not shown) to allow the head 408 to be in a sliding seal engagement with the inner facing surface 412. The piston head 408 acts as an internal barrier in the heating element.
The piston 405 comprises a connecting rod 414 attached to the head 408. The connecting rod 414 acts as a drive member. The connecting rod 414 has a diameter less than a diameter of the bore 410 to form a space 416 or passage between the connecting rod 414 and the bore 410. The space 416 acts as an air supply side of the bore 410. The portion of the bore 410 beyond the head 408 is a closed side of the bore 410 and is fluidly isolated from an air inlet.
The illustrated bore 410 and connecting rod 414 have circular cross-sectional shapes. In other embodiments the bore 410 and connecting rod 414 may have different cross-sectional shapes. For example, the heating element 220 may have a blade shape. Furthermore, the connecting rod 414 may not have a smaller diameter or width than the bore 410 and may instead extend to the inner facing surface 412 of the heating element 220. In such an embodiment, passages or grooves may be formed an outer surface of the connecting rod 414, and flow can travel along the grooves or passages and out of the apertures 418.
The heating element 220 comprises bands of apertures 418 disposed along the length of the heating element 220. In use, the piston 405 can translate along the longitudinal axis, to allow the available flow area of the air outlet 252 to be adjusted. The device provides an air path such that air flows from a location external to the device, into the space 416, and out of at least one aperture 418 formed in the heating element 220. The head 408 of the piston restricts air flow along the bore 410 and therefore the air travelling up through the space 416 exits the space via the apertures 418. The number of apertures 418 through which the air can exit depends on the position of the piston 405 within the bore 410.
In embodiments, the device 101 is configured to allow the piston 405 to be manually moved along its longitudinal axis by the user, for example a switch or lever may be used as an actuator. In other embodiments, an electric motor is operable to act as an actuator to activate the airflow adjustment assembly 400. In such an arrangement, the motor is engaged to move a protruding portion of the piston 405 into or out of the receptacle 212.
The embodiment illustrated in
The heating element 220 and flow adjustment assembly 400 are similar to those described in relation to
The passage 422 extend along the length of the connecting rod 414, acting as a drive member. The device 101 is configured so that air passes along the air passage 422 and into a chamber 424 formed by the end of the head 408 and a portion of the bore 410. The chamber 424 acts as the air supply side.
As with the embodiment in
Although one passage 422 is shown, there may be more than one passage formed in the piston 405. This may help to reduce resistance to airflow through the piston 405.
The connecting rod 414 illustrated is narrower in diameter compared with the bore 410. In other embodiments, the connecting rod 414 has the same diameter as the bore 410. This may help to provide the necessary space to provide more than one passage 422 in the piston.
Instead of a piston 405, control of the available flow area of the air outlet 252 may be achieved by use of a sleeve (not shown). The sleeve in embodiments acts as an internal barrier extending around the bore 410, or an external barrier extending around the outer side of the heating element 220. The sleeve can translate longitudinally along the heating element 220, similarly to the pistons 405 described previously. The sleeve is configured to block flow from any apertures 418 over which the sleeve extends. Therefore, the further along the heating element 220 that the sleeve projects, the fewer unblocked apertures 418 there are, and therefore the smaller the available flow area of the air outlet 252 is.
The embodiment illustrated in
The housing 103 defines the base 213a from which the heating element 220 protrudes. The heating element 220 upstands from the base 213a. The heating element 220 is exposed. The term ‘exposed’ will be understood to mean that a portion of a feature is not surrounded by another feature such that the feature extends beyond an external extent. The heating element 220 is not received in a heating chamber. With the device of
In other embodiments (not shown), the flow adjustment assembly 400 may additionally or alternatively comprise at least one valve configured to adjust the cross-sectional area of each aperture separately. This may help to individually control each aperture separately, which helps to provide greater control over the airflow.
In embodiments, a flow adjustment assembly is provided which is configured to alternately limit air flow through at least one first aperture and at least one second aperture. In such an embodiment, the air flow volume remains at least substantially constant throughout use, but the outflow is moved between different portions of the heating element 220. Accordingly, the active air outlet section may be moved towards the distal end or towards the proximal end during use whilst maintaining the air throughput.
In embodiments, the above described collar is configured to achieve such an effect. In other embodiments, the flow adjustment assembly comprises a piston, corresponding generally to the arrangement described above, with a first and second piston head, where the second piston head is spaced from the first piston head, and configured such that different apertures can be alternately opened or closed by placing the piston heads in appropriate positions within the bore 410.
The flow adjustment assemblies may be configured to selectively limit air flow through the apertures. The flow adjustment assemblies 400 allow the available flow area of the air outlet 252 to be adjusted depending on airflow requirements of the device 101. This can help to provide a more flexible device 101, where the amount of or location of airflow from the heating element 220 can be controlled. Such adjustment can help to provide a different sensation to the user when they inhale, and the user may be able to adjust the airflow depending on their preference. Furthermore, the airflow can be adjusted to provide optimum airflow depending on the aerosol-generating material being used. Providing a device which is adjustable may also mean that only one device 101 need be produced for a variety of different intended uses. Thus, only one device 101 need be produced, providing economies of scale and reducing manufacturing costs.
In embodiments, operation of the magnetic field generator 240 and the flow adjustment assembly 400 are configured to operate in dependence on each other. In embodiments, operation of the magnetic field generator 240 and the flow adjustment assembly 400 are configured to correspond with each other. That is, in embodiments the magnetic field generator 240 is configured to cause heating of one or more regions of the heating element corresponding to a portion of the heating element 220 through which air is directed by the flow adjustment assembly 400. In embodiments, the flow adjustment assembly 400 is configured to direct air through a portion of the heating element 220 corresponding to one or more regions of which the magnetic field generator 240 is configured to cause heating. Accordingly, progressive directed air flow along the heating element 220 may be aligned with progressive heating of the heating element 220. In embodiments, the inductor coil arrangement comprises two or more inductor coils to provide progressive heating, or a movable coil for example.
In embodiments, the flow adjustment assembly 400 is configured to direct air through a portion of the heating element 220 aligned with one or more regions of which the magnetic field generator 240 is configured to cause heating. In embodiments, the flow adjustment assembly 400 is configured to direct air through a portion of the heating element 220 offset from one or more regions of which the magnetic field generator 240 is configured to cause heating. For example, the portion of the heating element through which the flow adjustment assembly 400 is configured to direct air may be disposed at least partially closer to the distal end of the heating element 220 from the one or more regions of which the magnetic field generator 240 is configured to cause heating.
In the above described embodiments, the heating arrangement is an inductive heating arrangement. In embodiments, other types of heating arrangement are used, such as resistive heating. The configuration of the device is generally as described above and so a detailed description will be omitted. In such arrangements the heating assembly 201 comprises a resistive heating generator including components to heat the heating element via a resistive heating process. In this case, an electrical current is directly applied to a resistive heating component, and the resulting flow of current in the heating component causes the heating component to be heated by Joule heating. The resistive heating component comprises resistive material configured to generate heat when a suitable electrical current passes through it, and the heating assembly comprises electrical contacts for supplying electrical current to the resistive material.
In embodiments, the heating element forms the resistive heating component itself. In embodiments the resistive heating component transfers heat to the heating element, for example by conduction.
The above embodiments are to be understood as illustrative examples of the invention. Further embodiments of the invention are envisaged. It is to be understood that any feature described in relation to any one embodiment may be used alone, or in combination with other features described, and may also be used in combination with one or more features of any other of the embodiments, or any combination of any other of the embodiments. Furthermore, equivalents and modifications not described above may also be employed without departing from the scope of the invention, which is defined in the accompanying claims.
| Number | Date | Country | Kind |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2108806.7 | Jun 2021 | GB | national |
The present application is a National Phase entry of PCT Application No. PCT/EP2022/066619 filed Jun. 17, 2022, which claims priority to GB Application No. 2108806.7 filed Jun. 18, 2021, each of which is hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.
| Filing Document | Filing Date | Country | Kind |
|---|---|---|---|
| PCT/EP2022/066619 | 6/17/2022 | WO |
