[0001] The present invention relates to an aerosol generating device. In particular, the
present invention relates to an aerosol generating device for use with a heat source
and an aerosol-forming substrate. The present invention also relates to an aerosol
generating system comprising an aerosol generating device, a heat source, and an aerosol-forming
substrate. The present invention also related to a pack for use with the aerosol generating
device, and to a kit of parts comprising the aerosol generating device and the pack.
[0002] A number of alternative aerosol generating articles have been proposed in the art.
One aim of such alternative aerosol generating articles is to reduce the amount of
certain smoke constituents of the type produced by the combustion and pyrolytic degradation
of tobacco in combustible cigarettes. In one known type of aerosol generating article,
an aerosol is generated by the transfer of heat from a heat source, which may be a
combustible heat source, to an aerosol-forming substrate located adjacent to the heat
source. During aerosol generation, volatile compounds are released from the aerosol-forming
substrate by heat transfer from the heat source and entrained in air drawn through
the aerosol generating article. As the released compounds cool, they condense to form
an aerosol. These are sometimes known as heated aerosol generating articles.
[0003] US 2019/014818 A1 discloses a holder for an aerosol generating article including a body defining a
passage extending from a first end to a second end of the body for receiving the aerosol
generating article. The holder further includes a sleeve having a (i) a ventilation
region including one or more holes, and (ii) an extinguishment region downstream of
the ventilation region. The sleeve is movable over the body between (i) a retracted
position, (ii) an extinguishment position, and (iii) a use position between the retracted
position and the extinguishment position. The ventilation region is configured to
be aligned with the heat source of the aerosol generating article when the sleeve
is in the use position. The extinguishment region is configured to be aligned with
the heat source of the aerosol generating article when the sleeve is in the extinguishment
position.
[0004] EP 2 959 785 A1 discloses that a carbon heat source and a tubular member are a disposable member.
The carbon heat source is provided separately of the tubular member that previously
houses a flavor source. The tubular member is configured by a member having more flexibility
than the carbon heat source.
[0005] In heated aerosol generating articles which comprise a combustible heat source and
an aerosol-forming substrate, the combustible heat source must be securely attached
to the aerosol-forming substrate to avoid the combustible heat source separating from
the rest of the aerosol generating article. The combustible heat source must remain
securely attached to the aerosol-forming substrate from manufacture and during the
transport, use, and sometimes disposal of the aerosol generating article. Secure attachment
of the combustible heat source to the rest of the aerosol generating article may be
difficult since the combustible heat source cannot be fully covered since this may
inhibit combustion of the combustible heat source.
[0006] It may be desirable to provide secure attachment of a heat source to the rest of
an aerosol generating article in order to prevent the heat source detaching from the
rest of the aerosol generating article.
[0007] Combustible heat sources of known aerosol generating articles may be at least partially
exposed. This may lead to a risk of heat damage to property caused by the combustible
heat source coming into contact with other materials. In some circumstances, there
may be a risk that combustible heat sources may ignite materials with which they come
into contact. One measure of the tendency of a smoking article to cause ignition of
an adjacent material is ignition propensity. It may be desirable to provide an aerosol
generating article with a low ignition propensity, with features that reduce its ignition
propensity relative to the aerosol generating article without those features, or that
have an ignition propensity that is no higher than that of a cigarette.
[0008] Furthermore, some known heated aerosol generating articles do not offer the consumer
the opportunity to customise their experience. For example, if a consumer wishes to
use a particular aerosol-forming substrate, they must buy an entire aerosol generating
article comprising that substrate. Additionally, in known aerosol generating articles,
while the combustible heat source and the aerosol-forming substrate are consumed during
use, other elements such as cooling and spacer elements, and heat conducting members,
are typically disposed of with the rest of the aerosol generating article after one
use. It may be desirable to provide an aerosol generating article in which the user
experience is readily customisable by a consumer. It may be desirable to provide an
aerosol generating article in which certain components, in particular components which
are not consumed, may be re-used.
[0009] Furthermore, heat sources of the prior art may comprise carbon, and aerosol-forming
substrates of the prior art may comprise aerosol formers. For this reason, users may
not wish to come into direct contact with heat sources or aerosol-forming substrates.
For example, users may not wish to directly handle heat sources or aerosol-forming
substrates. It may be desirable to allow users to customise their experience while
minimising physical contact with the heat source and aerosol-forming substrate.
[0010] According to the present invention, as defined in claim 1, there is provided an aerosol
generating device comprising an elongate body extending between an upstream end and
a downstream end. The elongate body has an upstream recess for receiving an aerosol-forming
substrate and a heat source. This allows a heat source and an aerosol-forming substrate,
both of which are consumable, to be received in the aerosol generating device. The
device may be reused leading to less waste. Additionally, since the recess may receive
any aerosol-forming substrate, a user is able to customise their experience by inserting
an aerosol-forming substrate of their choice into the upstream recess.
[0011] The aerosol generating device further comprises an annular cutting edge disposed
at the upstream end of the upstream recess. The upstream recess may be defined at
its upstream end by the annular cutting edge. As discussed in more detail below, the
provision of the cutting edge may allow the device to be used in conjunction with
a particular pack which may reduce or eliminate the need for a user to come into direct
contact with at least one of a heat source and an aerosol-forming substrate.
[0012] The aerosol generating device further comprises an ejection element disposed within
the elongate body. The ejection element is movable between a first position and a
second position, the ejection element extending further into the upstream recess in
the second position than in the first position. This may advantageously provide a
means by which a user may remove at least one of a heat source and an aerosol-forming
substrate from the device after use without the need to come into direct contact with
at least one of the heat source and the aerosol-forming substrate.
[0013] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, there is provided an aerosol
generating device comprising an elongate body extending between an upstream end and
a downstream end. The elongate body has an upstream recess for receiving an aerosol-forming
substrate and a heat source. The aerosol generating device further comprises an annular
cutting edge disposed at the upstream end of the upstream recess. Preferably, the
upstream recess is defined at its upstream end by the annular cutting edge. The aerosol
generating device further comprises an ejection element disposed within the elongate
body, the ejection element being movable between a first position and a second position,
the ejection element extending further into the upstream recess in the second position
than in the first position.
[0014] The aerosol-generating device of the present invention may be used multiple times
by inserting at least one of a new heat source and a new aerosol-forming substrate
into the upstream recess. This may advantageously result in less waste each time the
aerosol generating device is used. Additionally, the provision of an upstream recess
for receiving an aerosol-forming substrate may advantageously allow a user to customise
their experience by inserting an aerosol-forming substrate of their choice into the
upstream recess. Additionally, receiving a heat source and an aerosol-forming substrate
within the upstream recess may advantageously ensure secure retention of the heat
source and the aerosol-forming substrate.
[0015] Furthermore, the provision of an annular cutting edge may allow the device to be
used in conjunction with a particular pack which may reduce or eliminate the need
for a user to come into direct contact with at least one of a heat source and an aerosol-forming
substrate.
[0016] The provision of the ejection element may advantageously provide a means by which
a user may remove at least one of a heat source and an aerosol-forming substrate from
the device after use without the need to come into direct contact with at least one
of a heat source and an aerosol-forming substrate.
[0017] In use, an aerosol-forming substrate and a heat source may be inserted into the upstream
recess of the elongate body. The aerosol-forming substrate and the heat source may
be in axial alignment, with the heat source being disposed upstream of the aerosol-forming
substrate in the upstream recess. The heat source and the aerosol-forming substrate
may be inserted by hand. The insertion of the heat source and the aerosol-forming
substrate into the upstream recess of the elongate body may move the ejection element
from the second position to the first position.
[0018] Preferably, at least the heat source is inserted by using the aerosol generating
device in conjunction with a particular pack containing the heat source. The pack
may comprise a heat source storage portion having a longitudinal body, a closed first
end and an opposed second end, the heat source storage portion second end being closed
by a layer of frangible material. A heat source may be disposed in the heat source
storage portion. The layer of frangible material may comprise metallic foil.
[0019] When the aerosol generating device of the present invention is used in conjunction
with the pack described above, the annular cutting edge disposed at the upstream end
of the upstream recess is pushed into the layer of frangible material. The annular
cutting edge cuts through the layer of frangible material, leaving a portion of frangible
material within the upstream recess. As the elongate body passes into the longitudinal
body of the heat source storage portion of the pack, the heat source enters the upstream
recess. The elongate body may then be removed from the longitudinal body of the heat
source storage portion of the pack and the heat source may be ignited if the heat
source is a combustible heat source. Heat from the heat source may be transferred
to the aerosol-forming substrate in which an aerosol is formed. Following use, the
ejection element may be moved from the first position to the second position which
ejects the heat source and the aerosol-forming substrate from the upstream recess.
[0020] The portion of frangible material left within the upstream recess may be disposed
between the heat source and the aerosol-forming substrate. The portion of frangible
material left within the upstream recess may advantageously act as a barrier between
the heat source and the aerosol-forming substrate. The provision of a barrier formed
by the portion of frangible material may advantageously prevent or inhibit migration
of the at least one aerosol-former from the aerosol-forming substrate to the heat
source during use of the aerosol generating device. The provision of a barrier formed
by the portion of frangible material may advantageously inhibit combustion and decomposition
products formed during ignition and combustion of the heat source, where the heat
source is a combustible heat source, from entering air drawn through the aerosol-forming
substrate during use of the aerosol generating device.
[0021] The upstream recess may be sized to receive any number of heat sources and aerosol-forming
substrates. Preferably, the upstream recess may be sized to receive a single heat
source and a single aerosol-forming substrate. Alternatively, the upstream recess
may be sized to receive more than one aerosol-forming substrate. For example, the
upstream recess may be sized to receive two, three, four, or more aerosol-forming
substrates. This may advantageously allow consumers to customise their experience
my inserting a specific combination of different aerosol-forming substrates into the
upstream recess. Preferably, the upstream recessed is sized such that when an aerosol-forming
substrate and heat source are correctly inserted into the upstream recess, a portion
of the heat source protrudes from the upstream end of the upstream recess. This may
advantageously ensure that sufficient air is able to reach the heat source to facilitate
ignition and sustained combustion of the heat source, where the heat source is a combustible
heat source.
[0022] The elongate body may be formed from a single component. The single component elongate
body may be formed from a metallic material such as stainless steel. Alternatively,
the single component elongate body may be formed from a polymeric material.
[0023] Alternatively, the elongate body may comprise a plurality of components. For example,
the elongate body may comprise an upstream portion and a downstream portion.
[0024] The upstream portion of the elongate body may comprise the upstream recess. The upstream
portion of the elongate body may comprise the cutting edge. Preferably, the upstream
portion of the elongate body may comprise a heat resistant material. This may advantageously
prevent damage to the upstream portion of the elongate body which, in use, may be
disposed close to a heat source. Preferably, the upstream portion of the elongate
body comprises a heat conducive material. This may advantageously ensure sufficient
heat transfer from a heat source to an aerosol-forming substrate disposed in the upstream
recess. This may advantageously improve the generation of aerosol by the aerosol-forming
substrate. The upstream portion of the elongate body may comprise a metallic material.
The upstream portion of the elongate body may comprise at least one of stainless steel,
Nimonic, Inconel, and aluminium.
[0025] The downstream portion of the elongate body may be disposed downstream of the upstream
recess. As a result, the downstream portion of the elongate body may not need to be
as resistant to heat as the upstream portion of the elongate body. Furthermore, a
user may hold the aerosol generating device by the downstream portion of the elongate
body. Accordingly, the downstream portion of the elongate body may preferably comprise
a thermally insulating material. This may advantageously prevent the exterior surface
of the aerosol generating device from becoming hot during use. The downstream portion
of the elongate body may comprise a polymeric material. For example, the downstream
portion of the elongate body may comprise polyether ether ketone (PEEK).
[0026] The upstream and downstream portions of the elongate body may be connected by any
suitable means. For example, the upstream and downstream portions of the elongate
body may be connected by one or more of; an interference fit, a screw connection,
and an adhesive.
[0027] The cutting edge may be integrally formed with at least a portion of the elongate
body. The cutting edge may be integrally formed with the upstream proton of the elongate
body where the elongate body comprises an upstream portion and a downstream portion.
[0028] The annular cutting edge preferably comprises a metallic material. For example, the
cutting edge may comprise stainless steel.
[0029] The annular cutting edge may be any edge capable of piercing or cutting through the
layer of frangible material of the pack. The annular cutting edge may be a continuous
cutting edge. Alternatively, the annular cutting edge may be discontinuous such that
the cutting edge includes one or more breaks.
[0030] The annular cutting edge may be flat. Alternatively, at least one first portion of
the annular cutting edge may extend further upstream than at least one second portion
of the annular cutting edge. This may reduce the area of the cutting edge in contact
with the layer of frangible material of the pack. This may lead to an increase in
pressure advantageously meaning less force may be required in order to pierce or otherwise
cut through the layer of frangible material of the pack. The annular cutting edge
may be a cutting blade. The cutting edge may comprise serrations or teeth. These may
also advantageously increase the pressure and make it easier to pierce or otherwise
cut through the layer of frangible material of the pack.
[0031] The ejection element may be formed from any material. The ejection element may comprise
a metallic material or a polymeric material. For example, the ejection element may
comprise stainless steel or PEEK. The ejection element may be an ejection rod having
an elongate shape.
[0032] The aerosol generating device may be suitable for use with any heat source. The upstream
recess may be suitable for receiving any heat source. The heat source may be a single
use heat source. The heat source may be a multiple use heat source. The heat source
may be a combustible, chemical, electrical or any other heat source. Preferably, the
upstream recess is suitable for receiving a combustible heat source.
[0033] As used herein with reference to the invention, the terms "longitudinal" and "axial"
are used to describe the direction between the opposed upstream and downstream ends
of the aerosol generating device, or of a component of the aerosol generating device.
[0034] As used herein with reference to the invention, the terms "upstream" and "front",
and "downstream" and "rear", are used to describe the relative positions of components,
or portions of components, of the aerosol generating device in relation to the direction
in which airflows through the aerosol generating device during use thereof. Aerosol
generating devices according to the invention comprise a proximal end through which,
in use, an aerosol exits the device for delivery to a user. The proximal end of the
aerosol generating device may also be referred to as the mouth end or the downstream
end. In use, a user draws on the mouth end of the aerosol generating device. The mouth
end is downstream of the distal end. The distal end of the aerosol generating device
may also be referred to as the upstream end. Components, or portions of components,
of the aerosol generating device may be described as being upstream or downstream
of one another based on their relative positions between the proximal end of the aerosol
generating device and the distal end of the aerosol generating device. The front of
a component, or portion of a component, of the aerosol generating device is the portion
at the end closest to the upstream end of the aerosol generating device. The rear
of a component, or portion of a component, of the aerosol generating device is the
portion at the end closest to the downstream end of the aerosol generating device.
[0035] The ejection element may comprise a hollow lumen through which the upstream recess
is in fluid communication with the downstream end of the elongate body.
[0036] In use, aerosol generated by the aerosol-forming substrate may pass from the upstream
recess, through the lumen, and to the downstream end of the elongate body.
[0037] The downstream end of the elongate body may comprise an opening through which aerosol
may leave the aerosol generating device.
[0038] The diameter of the lumen may be selected to achieve a desired resistance to draw
(RTD). The lumen may also act as a space for a generated aerosol to cool before it
leaves the aerosol generating article.
[0039] The aerosol generating device may further comprise an urging means to urge the ejection
element from the first position to the second position.
[0040] In use, when actuated, the urging means may therefore act to eject the used heat
source and aerosol-forming substrate from the upstream recess of the elongate body
after use. This advantageously means a user does not need to physically push the ejection
element from the first position to the second position.
[0041] The urging means may be any urging means.
[0042] The urging means may comprise a compression spring. The compression spring may be
located about the ejection element such that the ejection element passes through the
central axis of the spring. Where this is the case, ejection element may comprise
a flange against which the upstream end of the spring may act to urge the ejection
element from the first position to the second position. The elongate body may comprise
an internal stop against which the downstream end of the spring may act to urge the
ejection element from the first position to the second position.
[0043] The aerosol generating device may comprise a retainer to hold the ejection element
in the first position. This may prevent the urging means from urging the ejection
element from the first position to the second position when it is not required. This
may advantageously prevent a heat source and an aerosol-forming substrate from being
ejected from the upstream recess prematurely.
[0044] As set out above, the insertion of a heat source and an aerosol-forming substrate
into the upstream recess of the elongate body may move the ejection element from the
second position to the first position. Where the aerosol generating device comprises
an urging means to urge the ejection element from the first position to the second
position, insertion of the insertion of a heat source and an aerosol-forming substrate
into the upstream recess may act against the urging means. In other words, the urging
means may resist the insertion of a heat source and an aerosol-forming substrate into
the upstream recess. This may cause an aerosol-forming substrate located towards the
downstream end of the upstream recess to be pushed tightly against a heat source disposed
at the upstream end of the upstream recess. This may advantageously improve heat transfer
from a heat source to an aerosol-forming substrate. This may advantageously improve
the generation of aerosol by the aerosol-forming substrate.
[0045] The retainer may be any retainer capable of overcoming the force of the urging means.
[0046] The retainer may be a mechanical retainer. For example the retainer may comprise
an interference fit between a portion of the ejection element and a portion of the
elongate body. The force of this interference fit must be overcome to move the ejection
element from the first position to the second position. The retainer may be a snap
connection between the ejection element and the elongate body. This may be particularly
suitable where at least one of the ejection element and the elongate body comprise
a resiliently deformable material such as PEEK.
[0047] The retainer may comprise a magnetic connection. For example, the retainer may comprise
a pair of permanent magnets, one on the ejection element and one on the elongate body
which are configured to be in contact when the ejection element is in the first position
such that the magnetic attraction between the two magnets acts to retain the ejection
element in the first position. The retainer may comprise a permanent magnet and a
ferromagnetic material, such as steel. For example, the ejection element may comprise
steel and a permanent magnet may be disposed in, and attached to, the elongate body
in a position that allows the permanent magnet to come into contact with the ejection
element when the ejection element is in the first position.
[0048] The magnet located in the elongate body may be an annular magnet. This may advantageously
allow aerosol leaving the lumen of the ejection element to pass to the downstream
end of the elongate body without being obstructed by the magnet.
[0049] The aerosol generating device may comprise an extinguishing sleeve. The extinguishing
sleeve has an upstream end and a downstream end. The extinguishing sleeve may be movable
relative to the elongate body in a longitudinal direction between a loading position,
in which the cutting edge of the elongate body extends beyond the upstream end of
the extinguishing sleeve, and an extinguishing position in which the cutting edge
of the elongate body is disposed downstream of the upstream end of the extinguishing
sleeve.
[0050] When the aerosol generating device is being used in combination with an aerosol-forming
substrate, the extinguishing sleeve is in the loading position to allow sufficient
air to reach the heat source to facilitate ignition and sustained combustion of the
heat source, where the heat source is a combustible heat source. Following the aerosol
generation, the extinguishing sleeve may be moved from the loading position, in an
upstream direction, to the extinguishing position. In the extinguishing position,
the extinguishing sleeve extends beyond the upstream end of the elongate body. Where
a combustible heat source is received within the upstream recess of the elongate body,
the movement of the extinguishing sleeve from the loading position to the extinguishing
position may restrict the supply of air to the combustible heat source. This may cause
the combustible heat source to be extinguished. In the extinguishing position, the
extinguishing sleeve may extend further upstream than the upstream end of a combustible
heat source received in the upstream recess.
[0051] The provision of an extinguishing sleeve may advantageously provide a convenient
way of extinguishing a combustible heat source before it is ejected from the upstream
recess by the ejection element.
[0052] The extinguishing sleeve may have a total length which is less than the total length
of the elongate body. This may advantageously allow a user to move the extinguishing
sleeve relative to the elongate body between the loading position and the extinguishing
position by holding the extinguishing sleeve with one hand and a portion of the elongate
body with the other hand.
[0053] The extinguishing sleeve may include at least one of an upstream stop and a downstream
stop configured to engage with corresponding portions of the elongate body to prevent
the elongate body from extending too far in either an upstream or a downstream direction
relative to the elongate body. This may advantageously prevent the extinguishing sleeve
from separating from the elongate body. Where the downstream portion of the elongate
body comprises a thermally insulating material and the upstream portion of the elongate
body comprises a heat conductive material, the extinguishing sleeve may be configured
to cover the majority of the upstream portion of the elongate body when the extinguishing
sleeve is in both the extinguishing position and in the loading position. This may
advantageously prevent the upstream portion of the elongate body, which may become
hot during use, from being exposed.
[0054] The extinguishing sleeve may comprise any material. Preferably, the extinguishing
sleeve comprises a thermally insulating material. This may advantageously prevent
the external surface of the aerosol generating device from becoming too warm during
use. For example, the extinguishing sleeve may comprise PEEK.
[0055] The aerosol generating device may comprise at least one locking mechanism to lock
the extinguishing sleeve in at least one of the loading position and the extinguishing
position. The aerosol generating device may comprise at least one locking mechanism
to lock the extinguishing sleeve in each of the loading position and the extinguishing
position. The at least one locking mechanism may comprise a ball catch. The at least
one locking mechanism may advantageously prevent the extinguishing sleeve from accidentally
moving between the loading position and the extinguishing position.
[0056] When the extinguishing sleeve is in the loading position, the cutting edge of the
elongate body extends beyond the upstream end of the extinguishing position. This
may advantageously allow the cutting edge of the elongate body to pierce or otherwise
cut through a layer of frangible material of the pack as described above.
[0057] The overall length of the aerosol generating device may be greater when the extinguishing
sleeve is in the extinguishing position rather than in the loading position. For example,
when the extinguishing sleeve is in the loading position, the aerosol generating device
may have an overall length of between about 70 millimetres and about 100 millimetres,
preferably between about 80 millimetres and about 90 millimetres. When the extinguishing
sleeve is in the loading position, the aerosol generating device may have an overall
length of about 84 millimetres. When the extinguishing sleeve is in the extinguishing
position, the overall length of the aerosol generating device may be greater than
about 84 millimetres.
[0058] The extinguishing sleeve may be moveable from the extinguishing position to an ejection
position in which the cutting edge of the elongate body is disposed further downstream
of the upstream end of the extinguishing sleeve than in the extinguishing position,
and movement of the extinguishing sleeve from the extinguishing position to the ejection
position causes the ejection element to move from the first position to the second
position.
[0059] The movement of the extinguishing sleeve from the extinguishing position to the ejection
position may cause the retainer to release the ejection element. The ejection element
may then be urged from the first position to the second position by the urging means.
The extinguishing sleeve may comprise an internal element which engages with a portion
of the ejection element when the extinguishing sleeve moves from the extinguishing
position to the ejection position. The engagement between the internal element of
the extinguishing sleeve and the portion of the ejection element may overcome the
retaining force of the retainer and allow the urging means to urge the ejection element
from the first position to the second position. This may eject at least one of the
aerosol-forming substrate and heat source from upstream recess.
[0060] The provision of an ejection position for the extinguishing element may advantageously
provide a convenient way for a user to move the ejection element from the first position
to the second position so as to eject an aerosol-forming substrate and a heat source
after use. In particular, it may advantageously provide a convenient way to release
the retainer, where present, so as to allow the urging means to move the ejection
element from the first position to the second position.
[0061] Furthermore, since the extinguishing sleeve must pass from the loading position,
through the extinguishing position, before arriving at the ejection position, the
aerosol generating device cannot eject a heat source before the extinguishing sleeve
has moved to the extinguishing position. This may advantageously help to ensure that
a heat source received in the upstream recess of the elongate body is extinguished
before it is ejected from the upstream recess of the elongate body, where the heat
source is a combustible heat source.
[0062] Movement of the extinguishing sleeve from the ejection position back to the loading
position may cause the ejection element to move from the second position back to the
first position. Preferably, movement of the extinguishing sleeve from the ejection
position back to the loading position does not cause the ejection element to move
from the second position back to the first position. As set out above, it is preferable
that the insertion of an aerosol-forming substrate and a heat source into the upstream
recess of the elongate body pushes the ejection element from the second position to
the first position since this may cause an aerosol-forming substrate located towards
the downstream end of the upstream recess to be pushed tightly against a heat source
disposed at the upstream end of the upstream recess. This may advantageously improve
heat transfer from a heat source to an aerosol-forming substrate. This may advantageously
improve the generation of aerosol by the aerosol-forming substrate.
[0063] The overall length of the aerosol generating device may be greater when the extinguishing
sleeve is in the ejection position rather than in the loading, or extinguishing positions.
For example, when the extinguishing sleeve is in the ejection position, the aerosol
generating device may have an overall length of between about 80 millimetres and about
110 millimetres, preferably between about 90 millimetres ad about 100 millimetres.
When the extinguishing sleeve is in the ejection position, the aerosol generating
device may have an overall length of about 96 millimetres. When the extinguishing
sleeve is in either of the loading, or extinguishing positions, the overall length
of the aerosol generating device may be less than about 96 millimetres.
[0064] The aerosol generating device may further comprise at least one air inlet through
the elongate body, into the upstream recess.
[0065] The at least one air inlet through the elongate body may advantageously allow air
to access at least one of a heat source and an aerosol-forming substrate. This may
advantageously facilitate ignition and sustained combustion of a heat source disposed
within the upstream recess, where the heat source is a combustible heat source. Furthermore,
the air passing into the upstream recess may also advantageously facilitate the generation
and transfer of aerosol from the aerosol-forming substrate to the downstream end of
the elongate body.
[0066] The at least one air inlet may comprise at least one upstream air inlet for supplying
air to a heat source, and at least one downstream air inlet for supplying air to an
aerosol-forming substrate.
[0067] Since both a heat source and an aerosol-forming substrate may require a supply of
air, the provision of at least one upstream air inlet, and at least one downstream
air inlet may advantageously ensure that sufficient air is able to access both a heat
source and an aerosol-forming substrate received in the upstream recess of the elongate
body.
[0068] The at least one upstream air inlet may be located such that it is adjacent the portion
of the upstream recess of the elongate body configured to receive a heat source. The
at least one downstream air inlet may be located such that it is adjacent the portion
of the upstream recess of the elongate body configured to receive an aerosol-forming
substrate.
[0069] The at least one upstream air inlet may comprise any number of individual air inlets.
The at least one downstream air inlet may comprise any number of individual air inlets.
The individual air inlets may be any size. The number and size of the at least one
upstream air inlet and the at least one downstream air inlet may be chosen to provide
an appropriate total air inlet area. The total air inlet area of the at least one
upstream air inlet may be selected to allow sufficient air to reach a heat source
to facilitate ignition and sustained combustion of the heat source, where the heat
source is a combustible heat source. The total air inlet area of the at least one
downstream air inlet may be selected to allow sufficient air to reach an aerosol-forming
substrate to generate an aerosol whilst still providing an acceptable resistance to
draw. The total air inlet area of the at least one upstream air inlet may be greater
than the total air inlet area of the at least one downstream air inlet. This may be
because the amount of air required to facilitate ignition and sustained combustion
of a combustible heat source may be greater than the amount of air required to generate
an aerosol in an aerosol-forming substrate and provide an acceptable resistance to
draw.
[0070] For example, the at least one upstream air inlet may comprise a series of elongate
slits while the at least one downstream air inlet may comprise a series of shorter
slits or circular perforations.
[0071] Alternatively, or in addition, the at least one upstream air inlet may comprise several
rows of perforations while the at least one downstream air inlet may comprise fewer
rows of perforations.
[0072] The extinguishing sleeve may comprise at least one sleeve air inlet. The at least
one sleeve air inlet may be configured to align with the at least one downstream air
inlet of the elongate body when the extinguishing sleeve is in the loading position
such that, in the loading position air may pass through the at least one sleeve air
inlet and then through the at least one downstream air inlet of the elongate body
to an aerosol-forming substrate.
[0073] This advantageously allows air to pass through the at least one downstream air inlet
of the elongate body without being obscured by the extinguishing sleeve.
[0074] The extinguishing sleeve may further comprise at least one sleeve air inlet configured
to align with the at least one upstream air inlet of the elongate body when the extinguishing
sleeve is in the loading position such that, in the loading position air may pass
through the at least one sleeve air inlet and then through the at least one upstream
air inlet of the elongate body to a heat source. Alternatively, or in addition, the
at least one upstream air inlet of the elongate body may be provided in a portion
of the elongate body which extends upstream of the upstream end of the elongate body
when the extinguishing element is in the loading position. This may advantageously
mean that, in the loading position, upstream air inlets are not obstructed by the
extinguishing element.
[0075] The aerosol generating device may further comprise a heat conducting body disposed
within the upstream recess and connected to the extinguishing sleeve such that movement
of the extinguishing sleeve between the loading and the extinguishing position causes
a corresponding movement of the heat conducting body.
[0076] The heat conducting body may provide an efficient means by which heat may be transferred
from a heat source to an aerosol-forming substrate. The heat conducting body may provide
a further means for extinguishing a combusting combustible heat source received in
the upstream recess of the elongate body. As the extinguishing element is moved from
the loading position to the extinguishing position, the heat conducting body extends
over a greater area of the combustible heat source. This may draw heat away from the
combustible heat source, cooling the combustible heat source and contributing to the
extinguishing of the combustible heat source.
[0077] The heat conducting body may comprise any heat conducting material. The heat conducting
body may comprise a metal. For example, the heat conducting body may comprise at least
one of aluminium, steel, Nimmonic, and Inconel. Preferably the heat conducting body
comprises aluminium.
[0078] The heat conducting body may extend any distance along the length of the upstream
recess. The heat conducting body may extend from the downstream end of the upstream
recess to the upstream end of the upstream recess. This may maximise heat conduction
from a heat source to an aerosol-forming substrate. The upstream end of the heat conducting
body may not extend upstream of the upstream end of the upstream recess. This may
advantageously prevent the heat conducting body from impeding the supply of air to
a heat source. The heat conducting body may not extend upstream of the upstream end
of the extinguishing sleeve. The upstream end of the heat conducting body may be aligned
with the upstream end of the extinguishing sleeve. This may prevent the heat conducting
body, which may grow hot during use of the aerosol-generating article, from coming
into direct contact with any other material. This may advantageously reduce or help
to prevent possible damage to material caused by contact with the hot heat conducting
body.
[0079] When the extinguishing sleeve is in the loading position, and an aerosol-forming
substrate and a heat source are received in the upstream recess, the position and
length of the heat conducting body is such that the heat conducting body overlays
the downstream end of the heat source. The heat conducting body may overlay at least
about 1 millimetre, or at least about 2 millimetres of the downstream end of the heat
source. The heat conducting body may overlay about 3 millimetres of the downstream
end of the heat source.
[0080] When the extinguishing sleeve is in the loading position, the upstream recess may
have a length, from the annular cutting edge to the upstream end of the ejection element
of between about 5 millimetres and about 25 millimetres, between about 10 millimetres
and about 20 millimetres, or between about 12 millimetres and about 17 millimetres.
When the extinguishing sleeve is in the loading position, the upstream recess may
have a length, from the annular cutting edge to the upstream end of the ejection element
of about 15 millimetres.
[0081] The aerosol generating device may comprise at least one retaining means disposed
in the recess configured to retain a heat source.
[0082] The provision of the at least one retaining means may advantageously ensure a heat
source is securely retained within the upstream recess when the aerosol generating
device is in use.
[0083] The at least one retaining means may comprise at least one resilient element. The
at least one resilient element may be attached to, and extend from the inner surface
upstream recess. The at least one resilient element may comprise a plurality of resilient
elements, for example, the at least one resilient element may comprise two resilient
elements. Where the at least one resilient element comprises two resilient elements,
the two resilient elements may be disposed opposite each other on the inner surface
of the upstream recess.
[0084] The retaining means may ensure that, when a heat source is received within the upstream
recess, there is a tight fit between the heat source and the inner surface of the
upstream recess. This may prevent air being drawn past the heat source to the aerosol-forming
substrate. This may advantageously inhibit activation of combustion of a combustible
heat source during puffing by a user. This may substantially prevent or inhibit spikes
in the temperature of the aerosol-forming substrate during puffing by a user. By preventing
or inhibiting activation of combustion of a combustible heat source, and so preventing
or inhibiting excess temperature increases in the aerosol-forming substrate, combustion
or pyrolysis of the aerosol-forming substrate under intense puffing regimes may be
advantageously avoided. In addition, the impact of a user's puffing regime on the
composition of the mainstream aerosol may be advantageously minimised or reduced.
[0085] The provision of a retaining means, and the resulting tight fit of a combustible
heat source, may advantageously substantially prevent or inhibit combustion and decomposition
products, chemical reactants or by-products of chemical reactions, and other materials
formed during use of a heat source received in the upstream section of the cavity
from entering air drawn through the aerosol-forming substrate and being delivered
to a user. This may be particularly advantageous where the heat source is a combustible
heat source and comprises one or more additives to aid ignition or combustion of the
combustible heat source.
[0086] The downstream end of the elongate body may comprise a downstream recess for receiving
a mouthpiece.
[0087] The provision of a downstream recess to receive a mouthpiece may mean the mouthpiece
used with the aerosol generating device may be removable from the device. Where the
mouthpiece is re-usable, this may allow the mouthpiece to be cleaned. Where the mouthpiece
is disposable, this may allow the mouthpiece to be replaced after each, or a number,
of uses of the aerosol generating device. The downstream recess may be sized for receiving
a filter.
[0088] The downstream recess may be in fluid communication with the upstream recess such
that aerosol generated by an aerosol-forming substrate in the upstream recess is able
to pass to the downstream recess and out of the aerosol generating device.
[0089] The recess may comprise at least one portion having a reduced diameter.
[0090] The at least one portion having a reduced diameter may have a reduced diameter compared
to the diameter of the recess both upstream and downstream of the at least one portion
having a reduced diameter.
[0091] The at least one portion having a reduced diameter may advantageously help to retain
a mouthpiece received in the downstream recess. For example, where the mouthpiece
is a filter, the filter may be slightly compressed by the at least one portion having
a reduced diameter to retain the filter securely in the downstream recess.
[0092] The at least one portion having a reduced diameter may prevent aerosol passing out
of the aerosol generating device between a mouthpiece and the inner surface of the
downstream recess. This may advantageously ensure that all or most of the aerosol
generated by the aerosol-forming substrate passes out of the device through the mouthpiece.
[0093] The at least one portion having a reduced diameter may comprise at least one O-ring
disposed on the inner surface of the downstream recess. The at least one O-ring may
comprise any number of O-rings. For example, the at least one O-ring may comprise
two O-rings.
[0094] According to a further aspect of the present invention, as defined in claim 12, there
is provided a pack for use with an aerosol generating device. The pack comprises a
heat source storage portion having a longitudinal body, a closed first end, and an
opposed second end. The heat source storage portion second end is closed by a layer
of frangible material. A heat source is disposed in the heat source storage portion.
[0095] The provision of a pack comprising a heat source storage portion and a frangible
barrier may advantageously extend the shelf life of the heat source by preventing
volatile components of the heat source from escaping. The provision may also advantageously
prevent the heat source adsorbing moisture during storage which may inhibit ignition
or combustion of the heat source, where the heat source is a combustible heat source.
[0096] When the pack is used in conjunction with the aerosol generating device described
above, the annular cutting edge which defines the upstream end of the recess is pushed
into the layer of frangible material. The annular cutting edge pierces or otherwise
cuts through the layer of frangible material, leaving a portion of frangible material
within the upstream recess. As the elongate body passes into the longitudinal body
of the heat source storage portion of the pack, the heat source enters the upstream
recess. The elongate body may then be removed from the longitudinal body of the heat
source storage portion of the pack and the heat source may be ignited, where the heat
source is a combustible heat source.
[0097] Use of the pack with the aerosol generating device described above may advantageously
reduce or eliminate the need for a user to come into direct contact with the heat
source.
[0098] The heat source may be any heat source. The heat source may be a combustible heat
source.
[0099] The combustible heat source is preferably a solid heat source, and may comprise any
suitable combustible fuel including, but not limited to, carbon and carbon-based materials
containing aluminium, magnesium, one or more carbides, one or more nitrides and combinations
thereof. Solid combustible heat sources for heated smoking articles and methods for
producing such heat sources are known in the art and described in, for example,
US-A-5,040,552 and
US-A-5,595,577. Typically, known solid combustible heat sources for heated smoking articles are
carbon-based, that is they comprise carbon as a primary combustible material. The
combustible heat source may be a combustible carbonaceous heat source. The combustible
heat source may comprise a wrap for hygienic reasons. The wrap may comprise paper.
[0100] The portion of frangible material left within the upstream recess may be disposed
between the heat source and the aerosol-forming substrate. The portion of frangible
material left within the upstream recess may advantageously act as a barrier between
the heat source and the aerosol-forming substrate. The provision of a barrier formed
by the portion of frangible material may advantageously prevent or inhibit migration
of the at least one aerosol-former from the aerosol-forming substrate to the heat
source during use of the aerosol generating device. The provision of a barrier formed
by the portion of frangible material may advantageously inhibit combustion and decomposition
products formed during ignition and combustion of the heat source, where the heat
source is a combustible heat source, from entering air drawn through the aerosol-forming
substrate during use of the aerosol generating device.
[0101] The frangible material may comprise any material. Preferably, the frangible material
may comprise a metallic material. Where the frangible material comprises a metallic
material, the portion of the metallic material disposed between the heat source and
the aerosol-forming substrate may advantageously conduct heat efficiently from the
heat source to the aerosol-forming substrate.
[0102] Preferably, the layer of frangible material comprises a layer of aluminium foil.
[0103] The layer of frangible material may be provided with at least one line of weakness.
The at least one line of weakness may advantageously encourage the frangible material
to break at the correct place to form a portion of frangible material to become a
barrier, when the annular cutting edge pierces or otherwise cuts through the layer
of frangible material. The at least one line of weakness may be a circle. The at least
one line of weakness may comprise a score line.
[0104] The distance between the first and second end of the heat source storage portion
may be about the same as the length of the heat source. The distance between the first
and second end of the heat source storage portion may by such that the heat source
is in contact the first end of the heat source storage portion and the layer of frangible
material.
[0105] This may advantageously help to hold the heat source in position in the heat source
storage portion. This may also help to hold the layer frangible material tight when
annular cutting edge pierces or otherwise cuts through the layer of frangible material
which may advantageously make cutting through the layer of frangible material easier.
[0106] The diameter of the longitudinal body is greater than the diameter of the heat source
received in the longitudinal body. The diameter of the longitudinal body may be greater
than the diameter of the upstream portion of an aerosol generating device to be used
in conjunction with the pack. This may advantageously allow the upstream portion of
an aerosol generating device to be received in the heat source storage portion when
the pack is being used in conjunction with an aerosol generating device.
[0107] The closed first end of the heat source storage portion may comprise a shallow recess
for receiving a portion of the heat source. This may hold the heat source away from
the longitudinal body of the heat source storage portion so that the elongate body
of an aerosol generating device is able to enter the longitudinal body of the heat
source storage portion.
[0108] The diameter of the shallow recess may be the same or slightly larger than the diameter
of the heat source such that, when a portion of the heat source is received in the
shallow recess, it may be tightly held by the shallow recess. This may advantageously
ensure that the heat source is held in the centre of the heat source storage portion
allowing the elongate body of an aerosol generating device to enter the heat source
storage portion without being impeded by the heat source.
[0109] The longitudinal body and the closed first end of the heat source storage portion
may be formed from any material. Preferably, the longitudinal body and the closed
first end of the of the heat source storage portion are integrally formed. The longitudinal
body and the closed first end of the of the heat source storage portion may be formed
from a polymeric material. The polymeric material may include at least one of polyethylene,
polypropylene, or polylactic acid. Where the longitudinal body and the closed first
end of the of the heat source storage portion are formed from a polymeric material,
they may be formed using injection moulding or thermoforming.
[0110] The pack may comprise a plurality of storage portions, each containing a single heat
source. The plurality of storage portions may be arranged in a two dimensional array.
[0111] The pack may further comprise an aerosol-forming substrate storage portion. The aerosol-forming
substrate storage portion may comprise a longitudinal body, a first end, and an opposed
second end. The aerosol-forming substrate storage portion first end may be closed
by the layer of frangible material. The aerosol-forming substrate storage portion
second end may be closed by a removable closure. An aerosol-forming substrate may
be disposed within the aerosol-forming substrate storage portion.
[0112] The provision of a further storage portion for storing an aerosol-forming substrate
may advantageously simplify the insertion of an aerosol-forming substrate into the
upstream recess of the elongate body of the aerosol generating article. In use, the
removable closure is removed, exposing the aerosol-forming substrate in the aerosol-forming
substrate storage portion. The upstream end of the elongate body is inserted into
the aerosol-forming substrate storage portion, causing the aerosol-forming substrate
to be inserted into the upstream recess. The annular cutting edge then passes through
the layer of frangible material and the heat source is inserted into the upstream
recess as described above.
[0113] The provision of a further storage portion for storing an aerosol-forming substrate
may advantageously prevent loss of volatile components of the aerosol-forming substrate.
This may extend the shelf life of the aerosol-forming substrate.
[0114] A portion of the layer of frangible material may form a barrier between the heat
source and the aerosol-forming substrate. The layer of frangible material may form
a barrier between the heat source and the aerosol-forming substrate.
[0115] As used herein with reference to the invention, the term "aerosol-forming substrate"
is used to describe a substrate capable of releasing upon heating volatile compounds,
which can form an aerosol. The aerosols generated from aerosol-forming substrates
of aerosol generating devices according to the invention may be visible or invisible
and may include vapours (for example, fine particles of substances, which are in a
gaseous state, that are ordinarily liquid or solid at room temperature) as well as
gases and liquid droplets of condensed vapours.
[0116] The aerosol-forming substrate may be a solid aerosol-forming substrate. Alternatively,
the aerosol-forming substrate may comprise both solid and liquid components. The aerosol-forming
substrate may comprise a tobacco-containing material containing volatile tobacco flavour
compounds, which are released from the substrate upon heating. Alternatively, the
aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a non-tobacco material. The aerosol-forming
substrate may further comprise one or more aerosol formers. Examples of suitable aerosol
formers include, but are not limited to, glycerine and propylene glycol.
[0117] The aerosol-forming substrate may be a rod comprising a tobacco-containing material.
[0118] If the aerosol-forming substrate is a solid aerosol-forming substrate, the solid
aerosol-forming substrate may comprise, for example, one or more of: powder, granules,
pellets, shreds, spaghetti strands, strips or sheets containing one or more of: herb
leaf, tobacco leaf, fragments of tobacco ribs, reconstituted tobacco, homogenised
tobacco, extruded tobacco and expanded tobacco. The solid aerosol-forming substrate
may be in loose form, or may be provided in a suitable container or cartridge. For
example, the aerosol-forming material of the solid aerosol-forming substrate may be
contained within a paper or other wrapper and have the form of a plug. Where an aerosol-forming
substrate is in the form of a plug, the entire plug including any wrapper is considered
to be the aerosol-forming substrate.
[0119] The solid aerosol-forming substrate may contain additional tobacco or nontobacco
volatile flavour compounds, to be released upon heating of the solid aerosol-forming
substrate. The solid aerosol-forming substrate may also contain capsules that, for
example, include the additional tobacco or non-tobacco volatile flavour compounds
and such capsules may melt during heating of the solid aerosol-forming substrate.
[0120] The solid aerosol-forming substrate may be provided on or embedded in a thermally
stable carrier. The carrier may take the form of powder, granules, pellets, shreds,
spaghetti strands, strips or sheets. The solid aerosol-forming substrate may be deposited
on the surface of the carrier in the form of, for example, a sheet, foam, gel or slurry.
The solid aerosol-forming substrate may be deposited on the entire surface of the
carrier, or alternatively, may be deposited in a pattern in order to provide a non-uniform
flavour delivery during use.
[0121] The aerosol-forming substrate may be in the form of a plug or segment comprising
a material capable of emitting volatile compounds in response to heating circumscribed
by a paper or other wrapper. Where an aerosol-forming substrate is in the form of
such a plug or segment, the entire plug or segment including any wrapper is considered
to be the aerosol-forming substrate.
[0122] The heat source and the aerosol-forming substrate may be connected by a wrapper to
form a single consumable element. This may advantageously make removing and inserting
the heat source and the aerosol-forming substrate into the upstream recess more convenient.
[0123] The removable closure may be any sort of closure. For example, the removable closure
may comprise a lid removably affixed to the second end of the aerosol-forming substrate
storage portion. The lid may be removably affixed to the second end of the aerosol-forming
substrate by at least on of, a screw thread connection, an adhesive, a snap correction,
or an interference fit. Preferably, the removable closure comprises an adhesive label
adhered to the second end of the aerosol-forming substrate storage portion. The adhesive
label may comprise a pull tab. The pull tab may advantageously facilitate removal
of the adhesive label from the second end of the aerosol-forming substrate storage
portion.
[0124] The longitudinal body of the aerosol-forming substrate storage portion may be formed
from a polymeric material. The polymeric material may include at least one of polyethylene,
polypropylene, or polylactic acid. Where the longitudinal body of the aerosol-forming
substrate storage portion is formed from a polymeric material, it may be formed using
injection moulding or thermoforming.
[0125] The pack may further comprise at least one resilient element extending into the aerosol-forming
substrate storage portion from the longitudinal body of the aerosol-forming substrate
storage portion.
[0126] The at least one resilient element may advantageously ensure that the aerosol-forming
substrate is held in the centre of the heat source storage portion allowing the elongate
body of an aerosol generating device to enter the aerosol-forming substrate storage
portion without being impeded by aerosol-forming substrate.
[0127] The at least one resilient element may be configured to deform when the elongate
body of an aerosol generating device is inserted into the aerosol-forming substrate
storage portion.
[0128] The at least one resilient member may be integrally formed with the longitudinal
body of the aerosol-forming substrate storage portion. The at least one resilient
member may be formed from a resilient material. For example, the at least one resilient
member may be formed from a polymeric material. The polymeric material may include
at least one of polyethylene, polypropylene, or polylactic acid. Where the at least
one resilient member is formed from a polymeric material, it may be formed using injection
moulding or thermoforming.
[0129] The at least one resilient member may comprise a plurality of resilient members.
For example, the at least one resilient member may comprise two resilient members.
The two resilient members may extend from opposite sides of the longitudinal body
of the aerosol-forming substrate storage portion. This may advantageously further
ensure that the aerosol-forming substrate is held in the centre of the heat source
storage portion.
[0130] The pack may comprise an alignment means to facilitate alignment of the upstream
end of the elongate body of an aerosol generating device with the heat source below
the layer of frangible material. The alignment means may be an alignment marking.
[0131] The pack may comprise an alignment layer overlaying the layer of frangible material
at the second end of the heat source storage portion. The alignment layer may comprise
an aperture with at least one resilient member extending inwards from the edge of
the aperture.
[0132] The provision of an alignment layer may advantageously help a user to align the upstream
end of the elongate body of an aerosol generating device with the heat source below
the layer of frangible material. This may otherwise be difficult, particularly where
the layer of frangible material comprises an opaque material. In use, the upstream
end of the elongate body of an aerosol generating device is pushed through the aperture
in the alignment layer. If the upstream end of the elongate body of an aerosol generating
device is misaligned, it will deform the at least one resilient member. The at least
one resilient member will act to push the upstream end of the elongate body of an
aerosol generating device away from the edge of the aperture towards the centre of
the aperture where it will be in alignment with the heat source underneath the layer
of frangible material.
[0133] The alignment layer may comprise a plurality of resilient members extending from
the edge of the aperture. This may advantageously ensure that the upstream end of
the elongate body of an aerosol generating device is correctly aligned with the heat
source regardless of how the upstream end of the elongate body of an aerosol generating
device is misaligned.
[0134] The alignment layer may comprise any material. For example, the alignment layer may
comprise at least one of; a polymeric material, metal, paper, and cardboard.
[0135] The pack may further comprise a spacer layer between the second end of the heat source
storage portion and the alignment layer. The spacer layer may comprise at least one
aperture. The at least one aperture in the spacer layer may align with the at least
one aperture in the alignment layer.
[0136] The spacer layer may act to separate the second end of the heat source storage portion
and the alignment layer. This may advantageously provide greater opportunity for the
alignment layer to correct any misalignment of the upstream end of the elongate body
of an aerosol generating device with the heat source as the upstream end of the elongate
body of an aerosol generating device is pushed through the alignment layer.
[0137] The spacer layer may comprise any material. For example, the spacer layer may comprise
cardboard, for example corrugated cardboard. This may be advantageous since cardboard
is relatively lightweight.
[0138] According to a further aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a kit
of parts comprising an aerosol generating article of the present invention, and a
pack of the present disclosure.
[0139] It should also be appreciated that particular combinations of the various features
described can be implemented, supplied, or used independently.
[0140] The invention will be further described, by way of example only, with reference to
the accompanying drawings in which:
Figure 1 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device according
to the invention with the ejection element in the first position.
Figure 2 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device according
to the invention with the ejection element in the second position.
Figure 3 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device according
to the invention with the ejection element in the first position, and the extinguishing
sleeve in the extinguishing position.
Figure 4 is a longitudinal cross sectional view of a pack according to the present
invention.
Figure 5 is a perspective view of a pack according to the invention.
Figure 6 is a perspective view of a pack according to the invention.
[0141] In the figures, the same reference numerals are used to refer to the same elements.
[0142] Figure 1 shows an aerosol generating device 100 comprising an elongate body 101 extending
between an upstream end and a downstream end. The elongate body 101 includes an upstream
recess 104 for receiving an aerosol-forming substrate 106 and a heat source 105. The
aerosol generating device 100 further comprises an annular cutting edge 107 disposed
at the upstream end of the upstream recess 104. The aerosol generating device 100
further comprises an ejection element 108 disposed within the elongate body 101, the
ejection element 108 being movable between a first position and a second position,
the ejection element 108 extending further into the upstream recess 104 in the second
position than in the first position.
[0143] The elongate body 101 comprises an upstream portion 102 and a downstream portion
103. The upstream portion 102 of the elongate body 101 includes the upstream recess
104 and is formed from stainless steel. The downstream portion 103 of the elongate
body 101 is formed from PEEK. The upstream portion 102 of the elongate body 101 is
connected to the downstream portion 103 of the elongate body 101 by a snap connection.
[0144] The upstream recess 104 is cylindrical and is defined at its upstream end by the
annular cutting edge 107, and at its downstream end by the upstream end of the ejection
element 108.
[0145] The annular cutting edge 107 is integrally formed with the upstream portion of the
elongate body 102 and comprises a sharp annular blade configured to cut through layers
of frangible material, for example, aluminium foil.
[0146] The ejection element 108 is formed from a ferromagnetic steel and includes a hollow
lumen 109 such that the upstream cavity 104 is in fluid communication with the downstream
end of the aerosol generating device 100. The aerosol generating device 100 further
comprises an urging means to urge the ejection element 108 from the first position
to the second position. The urging means is a compression spring 110 disposed around
the ejection element 108. The upstream end of the compression spring 110 acts against
a flange on the ejection element 108. The downstream end of the compression spring
110 acts against an internal stop of the elongate body 101.
[0147] The aerosol generating device 100 further comprises a retainer to hold the ejection
element 108 is the first position. The retainer comprises a permanent annular magnet
111 within the elongate body 101 configured to be in contact with and retain the ejection
element 108 when the ejection element 108 is in the first position.
[0148] The aerosol generating device 100 further comprises an extinguishing sleeve 112.
The extinguishing sleeve 112 has an upstream end and a downstream end. The extinguishing
sleeve 112 is movable relative to the elongate body 101 in a longitudinal direction
between a loading position and an extinguishing position. In the loading position,
the annular cutting edge 107 of the elongate body 101 extends beyond the upstream
end of the extinguishing sleeve 112. In the extinguishing position, the cutting edge
107 of the elongate body 101 is disposed downstream of the downstream of the upstream
end of the extinguishing sleeve 112. The extinguishing sleeve 112 is shorter than
the elongate body 101 allowing the most downstream end of the elongate body 101 to
be exposed when the extinguishing sleeve 112 is in both the loading and extinguishing
positions. The extinguishing sleeve 112 is formed from PEEK.
[0149] The extinguishing sleeve 112 may be further movable from the extinguishing position
to an ejection position in which the cutting edge 107 of the elongate body 101 is
disposed further downstream of the upstream end of the extinguishing sleeve 112 than
in the extinguishing position.
[0150] The movement of the extinguishing sleeve 112 from the extinguishing position to the
ejection position causes the ejection element 108 to move from the first position
to the second position. The extinguishing sleeve 112 comprises an internal element
(not shown) which engages with a portion of the ejection element 108 when the ejection
sleeve 112 moves from the extinguishing position to the ejection position. This causes
the extinguishing element 108 to be released from the magnet 111 after which it is
urged by the compression spring 110 from the first position to the second position.
[0151] The aerosol generating device 100 comprises a plurality of air inlets through the
elongate body 101 allowing air to pass into the upstream recess. The plurality of
air inlets comprises a plurality of upstream air inlets 113, provided through the
elongate body 101 adjacent the portion of the upstream recess 104 configured to receive
a heat source 105. The plurality of air inlets further comprises a plurality of downstream
air inlets 114, provided through the elongate body 101 adjacent the portion of the
upstream recess 104 configured to receive an aerosol-forming substrate 106. The total
air inlet area of the plurality of upstream air inlets 113 is greater than the total
air inlet area of the plurality of downstream air inlets 114.
[0152] The extinguishing sleeve 112 comprises a plurality of air inlets 115. The plurality
of sleeve air inlets 115 are configured to align with the plurality of downstream
air inlets 114 of the elongate body 101 when the extinguishing sleeve 112 is in the
loading position.
[0153] The aerosol generating device 100 further comprises a heat conductive body 116 disposed
within the heat conducting recess 104 and connected to the extinguishing sleeve 112
such that movement of the extinguishing sleeve 112 between the loading and the extinguishing
position causes a corresponding movement of the heat conducting body 116.
[0154] The heat conducting body 116 is formed from aluminium and extends to the downstream
end of the extinguishing sleeve 112.
[0155] The aerosol generating device 100 further comprises a retaining means for retaining
a heat source 105 in the upstream recess 104. The retaining means comprises a resilient
element 117 attached to, and extending from, the inner surface of the elongate body
101 in the upstream recess 104.
[0156] The downstream end of the elongate body 101 comprises a downstream recess 118 for
receiving a mouthpiece 119. The mouthpiece 119 is a disposable filter. The downstream
recess 118 is in fluid communication with the upstream recess 104 through the hollow
lumen 109.
[0157] The downstream recess 118 comprises two O-rings 120 which reduce the diameter of
the downstream recess 118 at two points.
[0158] Figures 4, 5, and 6 show a pack according to the invention for use with an aerosol
generating device 100 according to the invention. The pack 200, 300 comprises a heat
source storage portion 201 having a longitudinal body 202, a closed first end 203,
and an opposed second end. The opposed second end is closed with a layer of aluminium
foil 204. A heat source 105 is disposed in the heat source storage portion 201.
[0159] Heat source 105 is a combustible carbonaceous heat source.
[0160] The distance between the closed first end 203 and the second end of the heat source
storage portion is about the same as the length of the heat source 105 such that the
heat source is in contact with the closed first end 203 and the layer of aluminium
foil 204. The diameter of the longitudinal body 202 is greater than the diameter of
the heat source 105. The closed first end 203 of the heat source storage portion 201
comprises a shallow recess 205 for receiving a portion of the heat source 105.
[0161] The longitudinal body 202 and closed first end 203 are integrally formed from a polymeric
material using injection moulding.
[0162] As shown in Figures 5 and 6, the pack 200, 300 may comprise multiple heat source
storage portions 201 in an array.
[0163] Figures 4 and 5 show a first type of pack 200 which further comprises an aerosol-forming
substrate storage portion 206 comprising a longitudinal body 207, a first end, and
an opposed second end. The first end of the aerosol-forming substrate storage portion
206 is closed by the layer of aluminium foil 204. The second end of the aerosol-forming
substrate storage portion 206 is closed by a removable closure 208. An aerosol-forming
substrate 106 is disposed in the aerosol-forming substrate storage portion 206. The
longitudinal body 207 of the aerosol-forming substrate storage portion 206 is formed
from a polymeric material using injection moulding.
[0164] The first type of pack 200 further comprises a plurality of resilient elements 209
which extend into the aerosol-forming substrate storage portion 206 from the longitudinal
body 207 of the aerosol-forming substrate storage portion 206. The plurality of resilient
elements 209 are integrally formed with the elongate body 207 from a polymeric material
using injection moulding.
[0165] As shown in Figure 5, the pack 200 may comprise multiple aerosol-forming substrate
storage portions 206 in an array with a corresponding number of heat source storage
portions 201.
[0166] The aerosol-forming substrate 106 comprises a tobacco-containing material containing
volatile tobacco flavour compounds, which are released from the substrate upon heating.
[0167] Figure 6 shows a second type of pack 300 further comprising an alignment layer 301
overlaying the layer of aluminium foul 204 at the second end 203 of the heat source
storage portion 201. The alignment layer 301 comprises an aperture 302 with a plurality
of resilient members 303 extending inwards from the edge of the aperture 302. The
alignment layer 301 is formed from cardboard. As shown in Figure 8, the alignment
layer 301 may comprise multiple apertures 302 in an array with a corresponding number
of heat source storage portions 201.
[0168] The second type of pack 300 further comprises a spacer layer 304 between the second
end of the heat source storage portion 201 and the alignment layer 301. The spacer
layer is formed from cardboard and includes an aperture 310. The aperture 310 is aligned
with the aperture 302 of the alignment layer and the heat source storage portion 201.
As shown in Figure 8, the spacer layer 304 may comprise multiple apertures 310 in
an array with a corresponding number of heat source storage portions 201 and apertures
302 of the alignment layer 301.
[0169] In use, the aerosol generating device 100 is initially in the configuration shown
in Figure 2, with the ejection element 108 in the second position, and the extinguishing
sleeve 112 in the loading position. A filter 119 is inserted into the downstream recess
118 and retained by the O-rings 120.
[0170] Where the aerosol generating device 100 is used with the first type of pack 200,
the removable closure 208 is removed and the upstream end of the aerosol generating
device 100 is inserted into the aerosol-forming substrate storage portion 206. As
the upstream end of the elongate body 101 hits the resilient elements 109, the resilient
elements 109 are pushed aside and the aerosol-forming substrate 106 passes into the
upstream cavity 104 of the aerosol generating device 100. Once the elongate body 101
reaches the end of the first end of the aerosol-forming substrate storage portion
206, the annular cutting edge 107 cuts through the layer of aluminium foil 204 and
enters the heat source storage portion 201. As the annular cutting edge 107 cuts through
the layer of aluminium foil 204, it cuts out a portion of the aluminium foil which
also enters the upstream recess 104. As the elongate body 101 continues into the heat
source storage portion 201, the heat source 105 enters the upstream recess 104 and
is held by the retaining means 117. The aerosol generating device 100 is then removed
from the pack 200.
[0171] Where the aerosol generating device 100 is used with the second type of pack 300,
an aerosol-forming substrate is first inserted into the upstream recess 104. The aerosol
generating device 100 is then inserted through the aperture 302 of the alignment layer.
If the aerosol generating article 100 is misaligned with the heat source 105, the
resilient members 303 act to push the aerosol generating article 100 back to alignment
such that by the time the upstream end of the elongate body 101 reaches the second
end of the heat source storage portion 201, it is aligned with the heat source 105.
The annular cutting edge 107 then cuts through the layer of aluminium foil 204 as
described above and the heat source 105 passes into the upstream recess 104.
[0172] As the aerosol-forming substrate 106 and the combustible heat source 105 pass into
the upstream recess 104, they push the ejection element 108 from the second position
to the first position. Once in the first position, the magnet 111 acts to retain the
ejection element in the first position. This configuration is shown in Figure 1.
[0173] The heat source 105 is a combustible heat source as described above, and is ignited
using a yellow flame lighter. Sufficient air is able to reach the heat source 105
since the heat source 105 extends further upstream than the upstream end of the elongate
body 101, and the elongate body is provided with a plurality of upstream air inlets
113. Heat from the heat source 105 is conducted by the portion of aluminium foil between
the heat source 105 and the aerosol-forming substrate, to the aerosol-forming substrate.
Heat is also conducted by the heat conducting body 116 to the aerosol-forming substrate
106 which releases an aerosol. The aerosol is entrained in an air stream which passes
into the upstream recess 104 through the aligned downstream elongate body air inlet
114 and the extinguish sleeve air inlet 115. The aerosol is then drawn through the
hollow lumen 109 of the ejection element 108, through the filter 119 and out of the
aerosol generating device 100.
[0174] Once the experience is over, the extinguishing sleeve 112 is slid from the loading
position to the extinguishing position. This restricts the amount of air which is
able to access the heat source 105. Additionally, the heat conducting body 116 moves
to cover the entire length of the heat source 105, reducing the temperature of the
heat source 105. Both of these effects together extinguish the heat source 105. This
position is shown in Figure 3.
[0175] The extinguishing sleeve 112 is then moved further upstream from the extinguishing
position to the ejection position. This releases the ejection element 108 from the
magnet 111. The compression spring 110 then urges the ejection element 108 from the
first position to the second position. The ejection element 108 pushes the extinguished
heat source 105 and the consumed aerosol-forming substrate 106 out of the upstream
recess 104. The extinguishing sleeve 112 is then moved from the ejection position
back to the loading position, leaving the aerosol generating device as shown in Figure
2.
1. Aerosolerzeugungsvorrichtung (100), aufweisend:
einen länglichen Körper (101), der sich zwischen einem vorgelagerten Ende und einem
nachgelagerten Ende erstreckt, wobei der längliche Körper eine vorgelagerte Aussparung
(104) zum Aufnehmen eines aerosolbildenden Substrats (106) und einer Wärmequelle (105)
aufweist,
eine ringförmige Schneidkante (107), die in der Lage ist, eine Schicht aus zerbrechlichem
Material einer Packung zu durchstechen oder zu durchschneiden, wobei die ringförmige
Schneidkante an dem vorgelagerten Ende der vorgelagerten Aussparung angeordnet ist,
und
ein Auswurfelement (108), das innerhalb des länglichen Körpers angeordnet ist, wobei
das Auswurfelement zwischen einer ersten Position und einer zweiten Position beweglich
ist, wobei sich das Auswurfelement in der zweiten Position weiter in die vorgelagerte
Aussparung erstreckt als in der ersten Position.
2. Aerosolerzeugungsvorrichtung (100) nach Anspruch 1, wobei das Auswurfelement (108)
ein hohles Lumen (109) aufweist, durch das die vorgelagerte Aussparung (104) in Fluidverbindung
mit dem nachgelagerten Ende des länglichen Körpers (101) steht.
3. Aerosolerzeugungsvorrichtung (100) nach Anspruch 1 oder 2, ferner umfassend ein Druckmittel
zum Drücken des Auswurfelements (108) aus der ersten Position in die zweite Position,
wobei das Druckmittel bevorzugt eine Druckfeder (110) umfasst.
4. Aerosolerzeugungsvorrichtung (100) nach Anspruch 3, ferner umfassend eine Halterung
zum Halten des Auswurfelements (108) in der ersten Position, wobei die Halterung bevorzugt
eine magnetische Verbindung aufweist.
5. Aerosolerzeugungsvorrichtung (100) nach einem beliebigen vorhergehenden Anspruch,
ferner umfassend eine Löschhülse (112) mit einem vorgelagerten Ende und einem nachgelagerten
Ende, die relativ zu dem länglichen Körper (101) in einer Längsrichtung zwischen einer
Ladeposition, in der sich die Schneidkante (107) des länglichen Körpers über das vorgelagerte
Ende der Löschposition hinaus erstreckt, und einer Löschposition, in der die Schneidkante
des länglichen Körpers dem vorgelagerten Ende der Löschhülse nachgelagert angeordnet
ist, beweglich ist.
6. Aerosolerzeugungsvorrichtung (100) nach Anspruch 5, wobei die Löschhülse (112) weiterhin
von der Löschposition in eine Auswurfposition bewegbar ist, in der die Schneidkante
(107) des länglichen Körpers (101) dem vorgelagerten Ende der Löschhülse weiter nachgelagert
ist als in der Löschposition, und die Bewegung der Löschhülse von der Löschposition
in die Auswurfposition die Bewegung des Auswurfelements (108) von der ersten Position
in die zweite Position bewirkt.
7. Aerosolerzeugungsvorrichtung (100) nach Anspruch 5 oder 6, wobei die Aerosolerzeugungsvorrichtung
ferner wenigstens einen Lufteinlass durch den länglichen Körper (101) in die vorgelagerte
Aussparung (104) aufweist.
8. Aerosolerzeugungsvorrichtung (100) nach Anspruch 7, wobei der wenigstens eine Lufteinlass
wenigstens einen vorgelagerten Lufteinlass (113) zum Zuführen von Luft zu einer Wärmequelle
(105) und wenigstens einen nachgelagerten Lufteinlass (114) zum Zuführen von Luft
zu einem aerosolbildenden Substrat (106) aufweist, wobei die Löschhülse (112) bevorzugt
wenigstens einen Hülsenlufteinlass (115) aufweist, wobei der mindestens eine Hülsenlufteinlass
zum Ausrichten mit dem wenigstens einen nachgelagerten Lufteinlass (114) des länglichen
Körpers (101) ausgelegt ist, wenn sich die Löschhülse in der Ladeposition befindet,
sodass in der Ladeposition Luft durch den wenigstens einen Hülsenlufteinlass und anschließend
durch den wenigstens einen nachgelagerten Lufteinlass des länglichen Körpers zu einem
aerosolbildenden Substrat (106) strömen kann.
9. Aerosolerzeugungsvorrichtung (100) nach einem der Ansprüche 5 bis 8, ferner umfassend
einen innerhalb der vorgelagerten Aussparung (104) angeordneten und mit der Löschhülse
(112) verbundenen Wärmeleitkörper (116), sodass eine Bewegung der Löschhülse zwischen
der Lade- und der Löschposition eine entsprechende Bewegung des Wärmeleitkörpers bewirkt.
10. Aerosolerzeugungsvorrichtung (100) nach einem beliebigen vorhergehenden Anspruch,
ferner aufweisend wenigstens ein in der Aussparung (104) angeordnetes Rückhaltemittel,
ausgelegt zum Zurückhalten einer Wärmequelle (105).
11. Aerosolerzeugungsvorrichtung (100) nach einem beliebigen vorhergehenden Anspruch,
wobei das nachgelagerte Ende des länglichen Körpers (101) eine nachgelagerte Aussparung
(118) zur Aufnahme eines Mundstücks (119) aufweist, wobei die Aussparung (118) bevorzugt
wenigstens einen Abschnitt mit einem reduzierten Durchmesser aufweist.
12. Packung (200, 300) zum Gebrauch mit einer Aerosolerzeugungsvorrichtung (100) nach
einem beliebigen vorhergehenden Anspruch, die Packung umfassend:
einen Wärmequellenspeicherabschnitt (201), aufweisend einen länglichen Körper (202),
ein geschlossenes erstes Ende (203) und ein gegenüberliegendes zweites Ende, wobei
das zweite Ende des Wärmequellenspeicherabschnitts durch eine Schicht aus zerbrechlichem
Material (204) geschlossen ist, und
eine in dem Wärmequellenspeicherabschnitt angeordnete Wärmequelle (105).
13. Packung (200, 300) nach Anspruch 12, ferner umfassend:
einen Speicherabschnitt für aerosolbildendes Substrat (206) mit einem länglichen Körper
(207), einem ersten Ende und einem gegenüberliegenden zweiten Ende, wobei das erste
Ende des Speicherabschnitts für aerosolbildendes Substrat durch die Schicht aus zerbrechlichem
Material (204) verschlossen ist und das zweite Ende des Speicherabschnitts für aerosolbildendes
Substrat durch einen entfernbaren Verschluss (208) verschlossen ist, und
ein innerhalb des Speicherabschnitts für aerosolbildendes Substrat angeordnetes aerosolbildendes
Substrat (106), wobei die Packung ferner bevorzugt wenigstens ein elastisches Element
(209) aufweist, das sich von dem länglichen Körper (207) des Speicherabschnitts für
aerosolbildendes Substrat in den Speicherabschnitt (206) für aerosolbildendes Substrat
erstreckt.
14. Packung (200, 300) nach Anspruch 13, wobei ein Abschnitt der Schicht aus zerbrechlichem
Material (204) eine Sperre zwischen der Wärmequelle (105) und dem aerosolbildenden
Substrat (106) bildet.
15. Packung (200, 300) nach einem der Ansprüche 12 bis 14, ferner aufweisend eine Ausrichtungsschicht
(301), die über der Schicht aus zerbrechlichem Material (204) an dem zweiten Ende
des Wärmequellenspeicherabschnitts (201) liegt, wobei die Ausrichtungsschicht eine
Öffnung (302) und wenigstens ein elastisches Element (303) umfasst, das sich von der
Kante der Öffnung nach innen erstreckt.