CA3196121A1 - A method of filling a cartridge for a vapour generating system - Google Patents
A method of filling a cartridge for a vapour generating systemInfo
- Publication number
- CA3196121A1 CA3196121A1 CA3196121A CA3196121A CA3196121A1 CA 3196121 A1 CA3196121 A1 CA 3196121A1 CA 3196121 A CA3196121 A CA 3196121A CA 3196121 A CA3196121 A CA 3196121A CA 3196121 A1 CA3196121 A1 CA 3196121A1
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- cartridge
- reservoir
- vapour generating
- openings
- vaporization chamber
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Pending
Links
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 title claims abstract description 17
- 239000007788 liquid Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 86
- 238000013022 venting Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 9
- 230000008016 vaporization Effects 0.000 claims description 57
- 238000009834 vaporization Methods 0.000 claims description 54
- 238000007789 sealing Methods 0.000 claims description 51
- 238000010438 heat treatment Methods 0.000 claims description 27
- 238000012546 transfer Methods 0.000 claims description 23
- 238000004891 communication Methods 0.000 claims description 7
- 238000011144 upstream manufacturing Methods 0.000 claims description 5
- 238000001179 sorption measurement Methods 0.000 description 18
- DNIAPMSPPWPWGF-UHFFFAOYSA-N Propylene glycol Chemical compound CC(O)CO DNIAPMSPPWPWGF-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 9
- 239000000443 aerosol Substances 0.000 description 9
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 9
- -1 polyethylene Polymers 0.000 description 8
- PEDCQBHIVMGVHV-UHFFFAOYSA-N Glycerine Chemical compound OCC(O)CO PEDCQBHIVMGVHV-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 7
- 239000003571 electronic cigarette Substances 0.000 description 5
- SNICXCGAKADSCV-JTQLQIEISA-N (-)-Nicotine Chemical compound CN1CCC[C@H]1C1=CC=CN=C1 SNICXCGAKADSCV-JTQLQIEISA-N 0.000 description 4
- 239000004698 Polyethylene Substances 0.000 description 4
- 230000009977 dual effect Effects 0.000 description 4
- 229960002715 nicotine Drugs 0.000 description 4
- SNICXCGAKADSCV-UHFFFAOYSA-N nicotine Natural products CN1CCCC1C1=CC=CN=C1 SNICXCGAKADSCV-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 4
- 229920000573 polyethylene Polymers 0.000 description 4
- 229920000139 polyethylene terephthalate Polymers 0.000 description 4
- 239000005020 polyethylene terephthalate Substances 0.000 description 4
- 239000004743 Polypropylene Substances 0.000 description 3
- 239000004411 aluminium Substances 0.000 description 3
- 229910052782 aluminium Inorganic materials 0.000 description 3
- XAGFODPZIPBFFR-UHFFFAOYSA-N aluminium Chemical compound [Al] XAGFODPZIPBFFR-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 3
- 235000011187 glycerol Nutrition 0.000 description 3
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 description 3
- 229910052751 metal Inorganic materials 0.000 description 3
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 description 3
- 229920001707 polybutylene terephthalate Polymers 0.000 description 3
- 229920001155 polypropylene Polymers 0.000 description 3
- 239000000126 substance Substances 0.000 description 3
- 239000004812 Fluorinated ethylene propylene Substances 0.000 description 2
- 241000208125 Nicotiana Species 0.000 description 2
- 235000002637 Nicotiana tabacum Nutrition 0.000 description 2
- 229930040373 Paraformaldehyde Natural products 0.000 description 2
- 239000004696 Poly ether ether ketone Substances 0.000 description 2
- 229910010293 ceramic material Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 description 2
- 229920001971 elastomer Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 229920000295 expanded polytetrafluoroethylene Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 239000000796 flavoring agent Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000012530 fluid Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000011521 glass Substances 0.000 description 2
- 229920001903 high density polyethylene Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 239000004700 high-density polyethylene Substances 0.000 description 2
- 229920009441 perflouroethylene propylene Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 239000004417 polycarbonate Substances 0.000 description 2
- 229920000515 polycarbonate Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 229920002530 polyetherether ketone Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 229920006324 polyoxymethylene Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 229920001296 polysiloxane Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 238000003860 storage Methods 0.000 description 2
- NOOLISFMXDJSKH-UTLUCORTSA-N (+)-Neomenthol Chemical compound CC(C)[C@@H]1CC[C@@H](C)C[C@@H]1O NOOLISFMXDJSKH-UTLUCORTSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 241000272525 Anas platyrhynchos Species 0.000 description 1
- 229920001824 Barex® Polymers 0.000 description 1
- RYGMFSIKBFXOCR-UHFFFAOYSA-N Copper Chemical compound [Cu] RYGMFSIKBFXOCR-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 229920000742 Cotton Polymers 0.000 description 1
- NOOLISFMXDJSKH-UHFFFAOYSA-N DL-menthol Natural products CC(C)C1CCC(C)CC1O NOOLISFMXDJSKH-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 241000506680 Haemulon melanurum Species 0.000 description 1
- WHXSMMKQMYFTQS-UHFFFAOYSA-N Lithium Chemical compound [Li] WHXSMMKQMYFTQS-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- HBBGRARXTFLTSG-UHFFFAOYSA-N Lithium ion Chemical compound [Li+] HBBGRARXTFLTSG-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 239000004642 Polyimide Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000004793 Polystyrene Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000010521 absorption reaction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000002253 acid Substances 0.000 description 1
- 150000007513 acids Chemical class 0.000 description 1
- 239000004676 acrylonitrile butadiene styrene Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000003213 activating effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000000654 additive Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000000956 alloy Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229910045601 alloy Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- OJIJEKBXJYRIBZ-UHFFFAOYSA-N cadmium nickel Chemical compound [Ni].[Cd] OJIJEKBXJYRIBZ-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 239000002775 capsule Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229920002678 cellulose Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 239000001913 cellulose Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000000919 ceramic Substances 0.000 description 1
- 235000019504 cigarettes Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- CKFRRHLHAJZIIN-UHFFFAOYSA-N cobalt lithium Chemical compound [Li].[Co] CKFRRHLHAJZIIN-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 239000004020 conductor Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000010924 continuous production Methods 0.000 description 1
- 229910052802 copper Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000010949 copper Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000003822 epoxy resin Substances 0.000 description 1
- HQQADJVZYDDRJT-UHFFFAOYSA-N ethene;prop-1-ene Chemical group C=C.CC=C HQQADJVZYDDRJT-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 239000000835 fiber Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000008369 fruit flavor Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000003365 glass fiber Substances 0.000 description 1
- LNEPOXFFQSENCJ-UHFFFAOYSA-N haloperidol Chemical compound C1CC(O)(C=2C=CC(Cl)=CC=2)CCN1CCCC(=O)C1=CC=C(F)C=C1 LNEPOXFFQSENCJ-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 239000011810 insulating material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229910052744 lithium Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 229910001416 lithium ion Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- GELKBWJHTRAYNV-UHFFFAOYSA-K lithium iron phosphate Chemical compound [Li+].[Fe+2].[O-]P([O-])([O-])=O GELKBWJHTRAYNV-UHFFFAOYSA-K 0.000 description 1
- 229940041616 menthol Drugs 0.000 description 1
- 229910052987 metal hydride Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000000203 mixture Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000002245 particle Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229920001748 polybutylene Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 229920000647 polyepoxide Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 229920001721 polyimide Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 229920000642 polymer Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 229920001343 polytetrafluoroethylene Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 239000004810 polytetrafluoroethylene Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229940058401 polytetrafluoroethylene Drugs 0.000 description 1
- 229920005749 polyurethane resin Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 230000001681 protective effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 229920005989 resin Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 239000011347 resin Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000000391 smoking effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000007787 solid Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000010935 stainless steel Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229910001220 stainless steel Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 150000005846 sugar alcohols Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 239000000725 suspension Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000012815 thermoplastic material Substances 0.000 description 1
- WFKWXMTUELFFGS-UHFFFAOYSA-N tungsten Chemical compound [W] WFKWXMTUELFFGS-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 229910052721 tungsten Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000010937 tungsten Substances 0.000 description 1
- 125000000391 vinyl group Chemical group [H]C([*])=C([H])[H] 0.000 description 1
- 229920002554 vinyl polymer Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 239000002699 waste material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000003466 welding Methods 0.000 description 1
Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65B—MACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
- B65B3/00—Packaging plastic material, semiliquids, liquids or mixed solids and liquids, in individual containers or receptacles, e.g. bags, sacks, boxes, cartons, cans, or jars
- B65B3/18—Controlling escape of air from containers or receptacles during filling
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A24—TOBACCO; CIGARS; CIGARETTES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES; SMOKERS' REQUISITES
- A24F—SMOKERS' REQUISITES; MATCH BOXES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES
- A24F40/00—Electrically operated smoking devices; Component parts thereof; Manufacture thereof; Maintenance or testing thereof; Charging means specially adapted therefor
- A24F40/40—Constructional details, e.g. connection of cartridges and battery parts
- A24F40/48—Fluid transfer means, e.g. pumps
- A24F40/485—Valves; Apertures
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A24—TOBACCO; CIGARS; CIGARETTES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES; SMOKERS' REQUISITES
- A24F—SMOKERS' REQUISITES; MATCH BOXES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES
- A24F40/00—Electrically operated smoking devices; Component parts thereof; Manufacture thereof; Maintenance or testing thereof; Charging means specially adapted therefor
- A24F40/40—Constructional details, e.g. connection of cartridges and battery parts
- A24F40/42—Cartridges or containers for inhalable precursors
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A24—TOBACCO; CIGARS; CIGARETTES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES; SMOKERS' REQUISITES
- A24F—SMOKERS' REQUISITES; MATCH BOXES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES
- A24F40/00—Electrically operated smoking devices; Component parts thereof; Manufacture thereof; Maintenance or testing thereof; Charging means specially adapted therefor
- A24F40/40—Constructional details, e.g. connection of cartridges and battery parts
- A24F40/46—Shape or structure of electric heating means
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A24—TOBACCO; CIGARS; CIGARETTES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES; SMOKERS' REQUISITES
- A24F—SMOKERS' REQUISITES; MATCH BOXES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES
- A24F40/00—Electrically operated smoking devices; Component parts thereof; Manufacture thereof; Maintenance or testing thereof; Charging means specially adapted therefor
- A24F40/70—Manufacture
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A24—TOBACCO; CIGARS; CIGARETTES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES; SMOKERS' REQUISITES
- A24F—SMOKERS' REQUISITES; MATCH BOXES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES
- A24F15/00—Receptacles or boxes specially adapted for cigars, cigarettes, simulated smoking devices or cigarettes therefor
- A24F15/01—Receptacles or boxes specially adapted for cigars, cigarettes, simulated smoking devices or cigarettes therefor specially adapted for simulated smoking devices or cigarettes therefor
- A24F15/015—Receptacles or boxes specially adapted for cigars, cigarettes, simulated smoking devices or cigarettes therefor specially adapted for simulated smoking devices or cigarettes therefor with means for refilling of liquid inhalable precursors
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A24—TOBACCO; CIGARS; CIGARETTES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES; SMOKERS' REQUISITES
- A24F—SMOKERS' REQUISITES; MATCH BOXES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES
- A24F40/00—Electrically operated smoking devices; Component parts thereof; Manufacture thereof; Maintenance or testing thereof; Charging means specially adapted therefor
- A24F40/10—Devices using liquid inhalable precursors
Abstract
A cartridge (12) for a vapour generating system (1) comprises a reservoir (32) for storing a vapour generating liquid. A method of filling the cartridge (12) comprises: (i) introducing (S1) a vapour generating liquid into the reservoir (32) via a first opening (52); (ii) venting (S2) air from the reservoir (32) via a second opening (54) during step (i); and (iii) positioning (S3) first and second valves (60, 62) in the corresponding first and second openings (52, 54) to seal the first and openings (52, 54) to prevent the escape of vapour generating liquid from the reservoir (32) through the first and second openings (52, 54).
Description
A METHOD OF FILLING A CARTRIDGE FOR
A VAPOUR GENERATING SYSTEM
Technical Field The present disclosure relates generally to a cartridge for a vapour generating system configured to heat a vapour generating liquid to generate a vapour which cools and condenses to form an aerosol for inhalation by a user of the system.
Embodiments of the present disclosure relate in particular to a method of filling a cartridge for a vapour generating system with a vapour generating liquid.
Technical Background The term vapour generating system (or more commonly electronic cigarette or e-cigarette) refers to a handheld electronic device that is intended to simulate the feeling or experience of smoking tobacco in a traditional cigarette. Electronic cigarettes work by heating a vapour generating liquid to generate a vapour that cools and condenses to form an aerosol which is then inhaled by the user. Accordingly, using e-cigarettes is also sometimes referred to as "vaping". The vapour generating liquid usually comprises nicotine, propylene glycol, glycerine, and flavourings.
Typical e-cigarette vaporizing units, i.e. systems or sub-systems for vaporizing the vapour generating liquid, utilize a cotton wick and heating element to produce vapour from liquid stored in a capsule or tank. When a user operates the e-cigarette, liquid that has soaked into the wick is heated by the heating element, producing a vapour which cools and condenses to form an aerosol which may then be inhaled. To facilitate the ease of use of e-cigarettes, cartridges are often used. These cartridges are often configured as "cartomizers", which means an integrated component formed from a liquid store (reservoir), a liquid transfer element (e.g. a wick) and a heater. Electrical connectors may also be provided to establish an electrical connection between the heating element and a power source. Such cartridges may be disposable, i.e.
not intended to be capable of reuse after the supply of liquid in the reservoir has been exhausted. Particularly in the case of disposable cartridges, but also in the case of re-fillable cartridges, it is desirable to reduce the number and complexity of the cartridge
A VAPOUR GENERATING SYSTEM
Technical Field The present disclosure relates generally to a cartridge for a vapour generating system configured to heat a vapour generating liquid to generate a vapour which cools and condenses to form an aerosol for inhalation by a user of the system.
Embodiments of the present disclosure relate in particular to a method of filling a cartridge for a vapour generating system with a vapour generating liquid.
Technical Background The term vapour generating system (or more commonly electronic cigarette or e-cigarette) refers to a handheld electronic device that is intended to simulate the feeling or experience of smoking tobacco in a traditional cigarette. Electronic cigarettes work by heating a vapour generating liquid to generate a vapour that cools and condenses to form an aerosol which is then inhaled by the user. Accordingly, using e-cigarettes is also sometimes referred to as "vaping". The vapour generating liquid usually comprises nicotine, propylene glycol, glycerine, and flavourings.
Typical e-cigarette vaporizing units, i.e. systems or sub-systems for vaporizing the vapour generating liquid, utilize a cotton wick and heating element to produce vapour from liquid stored in a capsule or tank. When a user operates the e-cigarette, liquid that has soaked into the wick is heated by the heating element, producing a vapour which cools and condenses to form an aerosol which may then be inhaled. To facilitate the ease of use of e-cigarettes, cartridges are often used. These cartridges are often configured as "cartomizers", which means an integrated component formed from a liquid store (reservoir), a liquid transfer element (e.g. a wick) and a heater. Electrical connectors may also be provided to establish an electrical connection between the heating element and a power source. Such cartridges may be disposable, i.e.
not intended to be capable of reuse after the supply of liquid in the reservoir has been exhausted. Particularly in the case of disposable cartridges, but also in the case of re-fillable cartridges, it is desirable to reduce the number and complexity of the cartridge
- 2 -components, thereby reducing waste and making the manufacturing process simpler and cheaper.
Summary of the Disclosure According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a method of filling a cartridge for a vapour generating system, the cartridge comprising a reservoir for storing a vapour generating liquid, the method comprising:
(i) introducing a vapour generating liquid into the reservoir via a first opening;
(ii) venting air from the reservoir via a second opening during step (i); and (iii) positioning first and second valves in the corresponding first and second openings to seal the first and second openings to prevent the escape of vapour generating liquid from the reservoir through the first and second openings.
The cartridge is intended for use with a vapour generating system configured to heat the vapour generating liquid to volatise at least one component of the vapour generating liquid and thereby generate a vapour which cools and condenses to form an aerosol for inhalation by a user of the vapour generating system. The present disclosure is particularly applicable to a portable (hand-held) vapour generating system, by which it is meant that a user is able to hold and support the system unaided, in a single hand.
The vapour generating liquid may comprise polyhydric alcohols and mixtures thereof such as glycerine or propylene glycol. The vapour generating liquid may contain nicotine and may, therefore, be designated a nicotine-containing liquid. The vapour generating liquid may contain one or more additives, such as a flavouring.
In general terms, a vapour is a substance in the gas phase at a temperature lower than its critical temperature, which means that the vapour can be condensed to a liquid by increasing its pressure without reducing the temperature, whereas an aerosol is a suspension of fine solid particles or liquid droplets, in air or another gas.
It should, however, be noted that the terms 'aerosol' and 'vapour' may be used interchangeably in this specification, particularly with regard to the form of the inhalable medium that is generated for inhalation by a user.
-j -By introducing vapour generating liquid into the reservoir via the first opening and simultaneously venting air from the reservoir via the second opening, filling of the reservoir can be readily achieved without subjecting the reservoir to an overpressure.
Sealing of the first and second openings is then readily achieved by the simple step of positioning first and second valves in the corresponding first and second openings.
The cartridge may further comprise a vaporization chamber. Step (iii) may comprise positioning first and second one-way valves in the first and second openings to seal the first and second openings to prevent the escape of vapour generating liquid from the reservoir and to allow air to flow to the vaporization chamber through the first and second one-way valves. The first and second one-way valves have a dual functionality, namely preventing the escape of vapour generating liquid from the reservoir and allowing air to flow to the vaporization chamber, and thus both the structure of the cartridge and manufacture/assembly are simplified.
The cartridge may further comprise first and second air inlets in communication with the vaporization chamber. Step (iii) may comprise positioning the first and second one-way valves in the first and second air inlets to permit airflow through the first and second air inlets to the vaporization chamber. A reliable airflow to the vaporization chamber is assured through the first and second air inlets by the corresponding first and second one-way valves.
Each of the first and second one-way valves may include a first sealing portion and a second sealing portion. Step (iii) may comprise: positioning the first sealing portion of each first and second one-way valve in the corresponding first and second opening to seal the first and second openings; and positioning the second sealing portion of each first and second one-way valve in the corresponding first and second air inlet to allow one-way airflow through the first and second air inlets to the vaporization chamber. The first and second sealing portions provide each one-way valve with the dual functionality described above. In particular, the first sealing portion prevents the escape of vapour generating liquid from the reservoir by sealing the first and second openings whilst the second sealing portion allows air to flow to the vaporization chamber through the first and second air inlets. The structure of the cartridge and manufacture/assembly are thereby further simplified.
The second sealing portion may be positioned upstream of the first sealing portion in an airflow direction towards the vaporization chamber. The first sealing portion, which prevents the escape of vapour generating liquid from the reservoir, does not obstruct airflow to the vaporization chamber through the first and second air inlets.
The cartridge may include a proximal end and a distal end. The first and second openings may be positioned at the distal end. Steps (i) and (ii) may be performed with the cartridge oriented such that the distal end is positioned above the proximal end. By positioning the first and second openings in an uppermost position, filling of the reservoir with vapour generating liquid via the first opening and venting of air from the reservoir via the second opening can be performed reliably without any unwanted leakage of vapour generating liquid from the reservoir.
Step (i) may comprise introducing the vapour generating liquid into the reservoir via a filling needle or a filling tube. This may facilitate filling of the reservoir with the vapour generating liquid.
According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a cartridge for a vapour generating system, the cartridge comprising:
a reservoir configured to store a vapour generating liquid;
a first opening configured for introducing vapour generating liquid into the reservoir; and a second opening configured for venting air from the reservoir during the introduction of vapour generating liquid into the reservoir via the first opening;
wherein the cartridge further comprises a vaporization chamber and first and second one-way valves positioned in the first and second openings to prevent the escape of vapour generating liquid from the reservoir through the first and second openings and to allow air to flow to the vaporization chamber through the first and second one-way valves.
The first opening allows vapour generating liquid to be introduced into the reservoir whilst the second opening allows air to be simultaneously vented from the reservoir.
This allows the reservoir to be easily filled without subjecting the reservoir to an overpressure. By preventing the escape of vapour generating liquid from the reservoir and at the same time allowing air to flow to the vaporization chamber, the first and second one-way valves have a dual functionality thus simplifying the structure of the cartridge and improving its manufacturability and ease of assembly.
The cartridge may further comprise first and second air inlets in communication with the vaporization chamber. The first and second one-way valves may be positioned in the first and second air inlets to permit airflow through the first and second air inlets to the vaporization chamber. A reliable airflow to the vaporization chamber is assured through the first and second air inlets by the corresponding first and second one-way valves.
Each of the first and second one-way valves may include a first sealing portion and a second sealing portion. The first sealing portion of each first and second one-way valve may be positioned in the corresponding first and second opening to seal the first and second openings. The second sealing portion of each first and second one-way valve may be positioned in the corresponding first and second air inlet to allow one-way airflow through the first and second air inlets to the vaporization chamber.
The first and second sealing portions provide each one-way valve with the dual functionality described above. In particular, the first sealing portion prevents the escape of vapour generating liquid from the reservoir by sealing the first and second openings whilst the second sealing portion allows air to flow to the vaporization chamber through the first and second air inlets. The structure of the cartridge is thereby simplified.
The second sealing portion may be positioned upstream of the first sealing portion in an airflow direction towards the vaporization chamber. The first sealing portion, which prevents the escape of vapour generating liquid from the reservoir, does not obstruct airflow to the vaporization chamber through the first and second air inlets.
The cartridge may include a proximal end and may include a distal end, and the first and second openings may be positioned at the distal end. As noted above, filling of the reservoir with vapour generating liquid via the first opening and venting of air from the reservoir via the second opening is thereby facilitated, in particular when the cartridge is oriented such that the distal end is positioned above the proximal end.
The cartridge may further comprise a sorption member at least partially disposed within the vaporization chamber for absorbing vapour generating liquid from the reservoir, for example via a liquid outlet. The cartridge may further comprise a heat transfer unit which may contact the sorption member to heat the sorption member and vaporize the absorbed vapour generating liquid. This is a continuous process, in which vapour generating liquid from the reservoir is continuously absorbed by the sorption member.
Vapour generated during this process is transferred from the vaporization chamber via a vapour outlet channel in the cartridge so that it can be inhaled by a user of the vapour generating system.
The cartridge may be configured to thermically connect to a base part having at least one heating element. The heat transfer unit may be configured, when the cartridge is thermically connected to the base part, to transfer heat from the heating element to the sorption member to vaporize vapour generating liquid absorbed by the sorption member.
According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a vapour generating system comprising:
a base part having at least one heating element; and a cartridge according to the second aspect thermically connected to the base part.
The base part may include a power supply unit, e.g. a battery, connected to the heating element. In operation, upon activating the vapour generating system, the power supply unit electrically heats the heating element of the base part, which then provides its heat by conduction to the heat transfer unit of the cartridge. The heat transfer unit, in turn, provides the heat to the sorption member, resulting in vaporization of the vapour generating liquid absorbed therein. The heating element may be separated from the vaporization chamber by the heat transfer unit.
The sorption member can be made of any material or a combination of materials being able to perform sorption and/or absorption of another material, and can be made, for example, of one or more of the following materials: Fibre, glass, aluminium, cotton, ceramic, cellulose, glass fibre wick, stainless steel mesh, polyethylene (PE), polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), poly(cyclohexanedimethylene terephth al ate) (PCT), polybutylene terephth al ate (PBT), polytetrafl uoroethylene (PTFE), expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE), and BAREX , etc.
The heat transfer unit may comprise a thermally conductive material, for example, a metal such as aluminium, copper, etc.
The heating element may comprise an electrically resistive material. The heating element may include a ceramic material, for example tungsten and alloys thereof. The use of a ceramic material conveniently helps to rigidify the heating element.
The heating element may be at least partially encapsulated in, or coated with, a protective material, such as glass.
The heating element may be formed using a metal having a defined relationship between temperature and resistivity. In such embodiments, the metal may be formed as a track between two layers of suitable insulating materials. A heating element formed in this manner may be used both as a heater and a temperature sensor.
The heating element may include a temperature sensor embedded therein or attached thereto.
The power supply unit, e.g. battery, may be a DC voltage source. For example, the power supply unit may be a Nickel-metal hydride battery, a Nickel cadmium battery, or a Lithium based battery, for example a Lithium-Cobalt, a Lithium-Iron-Phosphate, a Lithium-Ion or a Lithium-Polymer battery.
The base part may further comprise a processor associated with electrical components of the vapour generating system, including the battery.
The cartridge may further comprise: a cartridge housing at least partially including the reservoir and the vaporization chamber, and a vapour outlet channel extending along the cartridge housing and in fluid communication with the vaporization chamber. The cartridge housing may have a proximal end configured as a mouthpiece end which is in fluid communication with the vaporization chamber via the vapour outlet channel and a distal end associated with the heat transfer unit. The mouthpiece end may be configured for providing the vaporized liquid (i.e., vapour or aerosol) to the user. The heat transfer unit may be disposed at the distal end. The heat transfer unit may be substantially perpendicular to the vapour outlet channel.
The reservoir may be juxtaposed with the vapour outlet channel extending between the vaporization chamber and the mouthpiece end. The reservoir may be disposed around the vapour outlet channel.
The cartridge housing may be made of one or more of the following materials:
aluminium, poly ether ether ketone (PEEK), polyimides, such as Kaptonk, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyethylene (PE), high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polypropylene (PP), polystyrene (PS), fluorinated ethylene propylene (FEP), polytetrafluoroethyl en e (PTFE), polyoxymethyl ene (POM), polybutylene terephthal ate (PBT), Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), Polycarbonates (PC), epoxy resins, polyurethane resins and vinyl resins.
Brief Description of the Drawings Figure 1 is a diagrammatic view of a vapour generating system comprising a base part and a cartridge;
Figure 2 is a perspective view of an example of a cartridge according to the present disclosure;
Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of the cartridge shown in Figure 2 prior to sealing first and second openings;
Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of the cartridge shown in Figures 2 to 4 after sealing the first and second openings; and Figure 5 is a flowchart illustrating one example of a method for filling a cartridge according to the present disclosure with a vapour generating liquid.
Detailed Description of Embodiments Embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings.
Referring initially to Figure 1, there is shown diagrammatically a vapour generating system 1 for vaporizing a vapour generating liquid to generate a vapour (or aerosol) for inhalation by a user of the system 1. The vapour generating system 1 comprises a base part 10 and a cartridge 12 thermically connected to the base part 10. The base part 10 is thus the main body part of the vapour generating system 1 and is preferably re-usable.
The base part 12 comprises a housing 14 accommodating a power supply unit in the form of a battery 16 connected to a resistive heating element 18 located at a first end 14a of the housing 14. The first end 14a of the housing 14 has an interface 15 configured for matching a corresponding interface of the cartridge 12. The interface 15 may, for example, be in the shape of a tubular cartridge seating and can comprise a connector for releasably connecting the cartridge 12 to the cartridge seating. The battery 16 is configured for providing the heating element 18 with the necessary electrical power for its operation, allowing it to become heated to a required temperature. The battery 16 is also connected to a processor 20, enabling the required power supply for its operation.
The processor 20 is connected to the heating element 18 and controls its operation.
Referring additionally to Figures 2 to 4, the cartridge 12 comprises a cartridge housing 22 having a proximal end 24 and a distal end 26. The proximal end 24 may constitute a mouthpiece end configured for being introduced directly into a user's mouth and may, therefore, also be designated as the mouth end 24. in some embodiments, a mouthpiece may be fitted to the proximal end 24. However, it is also possible to configure the vapour generating system 1 with a separate mouthpiece portion, releasably connectable to the base part 10 and whereby the cartridge 12 is enclosed inside the vapour generating system 1.
The cartridge 12 comprises abase portion 28 and a liquid storage portion 30.
The liquid storage portion 30 comprises a reservoir 32, configured for containing therein a vapour generating liquid, and a vapour outlet channel 34. The vapour generating liquid may comprise an aerosol-forming substance such as propylene glycol and/or glycerol and may contain other substances such as nicotine and acids. The vapour generating liquid may also comprise flavourings such as, e.g., tobacco, menthol, or fruit flavour. The reservoir 32 may extend generally between the proximal end 24 and the distal end 26, but is spaced from the distal end 26. The reservoir 32 may surround, and coextend with, the vapour outlet channel 34.
As best seen in Figure 4, the base portion 28 of the cartridge 12 may be configured to sealingly close off the distal end 26 of the cartridge 12. The base portion 28 comprises a plug assembly 36 comprising first and second plug members 36a, 36b, a disc shaped sorption member 38 having a centrally positioned hole 40 and a heat transfer unit 42 which are all positioned at the distal end 26 of the cartridge housing 22, and more particularly in the space formed between the reservoir 32 and the distal end 26. The plug assembly 36, and more specifically the first plug member 36a, closes the distal end 26 of the cartridge housing 22 and thereby retains the vapour generating liquid in the reservoir 32.
The first plug member 36a is provided with a circumferential surface 46 that is in contact with the inner circumferential surface of the reservoir 32. The first plug member 36a may be formed of a material with an elasticity that provides a sealing effect when the circumferential surface 46 contacts the inner circumferential surface of the reservoir 32. For example, the first plug member 32a may comprise rubber or silicone.
Alternatively, the first plug member 36a may comprise a thermoplastic material which enables the first plug member 36a and the reservoir 32 to be joined together by, e.g., ultrasonic welding. The first plug member 36a comprises a connecting portion 44 which is configured to sealingly connect to a distal end 34a of the vapour outlet channel 34 as shown in Figures 3 and 4.
The cartridge 12 includes a vaporization chamber 48 defined between the first plug member 36a and the heat transfer unit 42. The sorption member 38 is positioned in the vaporization chamber 48. The first plug member 36a includes a plurality of circumferentially spaced liquid outlets 50 which provide a controlled flow of vapour generating liquid from the reservoir 32 to the sorption member 38 positioned in the vaporization chamber 48 adjacent to the liquid outlets 50.
The sorption member 38 is positioned in the vaporization chamber 48 between the liquid outlets 50 and the heat transfer unit 42. The sorption member 38 is configured, on the one hand, for absorbing therein some of the vapour generating liquid from the reservoir 32, and, on the other hand, for being heated by the heat transfer unit 42 thereby allowing the vapour generating liquid absorbed therein to be vaporized in the vaporization chamber 48.
When the base part 10 and the cartridge 12 are assembled together as shown in Figure 1, the heating element 18 of the base part 10 contacts the heat transfer unit 42 of the cartridge 12, such that the cartridge 12 is thermically connected to the base part 10. In operation, the heating element 18 is resistively heated by the power from the battery 16 and provides its heat to the heat transfer unit 42 via conduction. The heat from the heat transfer unit 42 is then transferred to the sorption member 38, mainly by conduction.
Thus, the sorption member 38 is heated indirectly by the heat transfer unit 42, and not directly by the heating element 18 of the base part 10. The heating element 18 in the base part 12 ideally needs to attain a temperature of around 500 C in order to transfer enough heat such that the connection between the sorption member 38 and the heat transfer unit 42 reaches a temperature at which vaporization occurs (typically between 200 C and 250 C). As a result of heating of the sorption member 38, the vapour generating liquid absorbed therein from the reservoir 32 is vaporized in the vaporization chamber 48, and the vapour escapes from the vaporization chamber 48 via the vapour outlet channel 34 when a user sucks on the proximal (mouth) end 24 of the cartridge 12. The vapour cools and condenses as it flows through the vapour outlet channel 34 to form an aerosol that can be inhaled by a user via the proximal (mouth) end 24.
The cartridge 12 comprises first and second openings 52, 54 in communication with the reservoir 32 which allow the reservoir 32 to be filled with vapour generating liquid.
Specifically, the first opening 52 allows vapour generating liquid to be introduced into the reservoir 32 whilst the second opening 54 allows air to be vented from the reservoir 32 whilst it is being filled with vapour generating liquid via the first opening 52. Thus, overpressure inside the reservoir 32 is avoided during filling and the reservoir 32 can be easily filled with vapour generating liquid. In the illustrated example, the first and second openings 52, 54 are at the distal end 26 of the cartridge housing 22 and are formed in the first plug member 36a.
The cartridge 12 also comprises first and second air inlets 56, 58 to allow air to flow to the vaporization chamber 48 during use of the vapour generating system 1 when a user sucks on the proximal (mouth) end 24 of the cartridge 12 as described above.
In the illustrated example, the first and second air inlets 56, 58 are formed in the second plug member 36b and allow air to flow to the vaporization chamber 48 along a path formed between the first and second plug members 36a, 36b as shown in Figure 4.
The cartridge 12 comprises first and second one-way valves 60, 62. both of which include a first sealing portion 60a, 62a and a second sealing portion 60b, 62b. When the first and second one-way valves 60, 62 are fitted to the cartridge as shown in Figure 4, the first sealing portions 60a, 62a are positioned in the corresponding first and second openings 52, 54 and the second sealing portions 6013, 62b are positioned in the first and second air inlets 56, 58. The first sealing portions 60a, 62a provide a liquid tight seal which prevents the escape of vapour generating liquid from the reservoir 32 via the first and second openings 52, 54 after the reservoir 32 has been filled with vapour generating liquid in the manner described above. The first and second one-way valves 60, 62 are typically formed of a material with an elasticity that provides a sealing effect when the first sealing portions 60a, 62a are positioned in the corresponding first and second openings 52, 54. For example, the first and second one-way valves 60, 62 may comprise rubber or silicone.
The second sealing portions 60b, 62b, which may comprise a duck bill valve or a similar non-return valve, allow air to flow to the vaporization chamber 48 through the first and second air inlets 56, 58, but do not allow air to flow in the opposite direction. As shown in Figure 4, the second sealing portion 60b, 62b of each first and second one-way valve 60, 62 is positioned upstream of the first sealing portion 60a, 62a in an airflow direction towards the vaporization chamber 48. Thus, air can flow to the vaporization chamber 48 through the second sealing portions 60b, 62b and the first and second air inlets 56, 58, without being obstructed by the first sealing portions 60a, 62a. Thus, the geometry of the first sealing portions 60a, 62a can be optimised to provide a liquid-tight seal and thereby prevent the leakage of vapour generating liquid from the reservoir 32.
As illustrated in Figure 6, an exemplary method of filling the cartridge 12 comprises the steps of:
Si - introducing a vapour generating liquid into the reservoir 32 via a first opening 52;
S2 - venting air from the reservoir 32 via a second opening 54 during step Si;
and S3 - positioning first and second valves 60, 62 (e.g., one-way valves as described above) in the corresponding first and second openings 52, 54 to seal the first and openings 52, 54 to prevent the escape of vapour generating liquid from the reservoir 32 through the first and second openings 52, 54.
Step Si is performed with the cartridge 12 oriented as shown in Figure 3, that is with the distal end 26 positioned above the proximal end 24. A filling needle or filling tube can be used to facilitate the introduction of vapour generating liquid into the reservoir 32 via the first opening 52 and thereby minimise the risk of spillage. The first and second one-way valves 60, 62 are then positioned in the first and second openings 52, 54 (step S3) with the distal end 26 positioned above the proximal end 24.
Because of the elastic and flexible nature of the first and second one-way valves 60, 62, they can be pushed into the first and second openings 52, 54 allowing a liquid-tight seal to be formed. After the cartridge 12 has been filled with vapour generating liquid and the first and second one-way valves 60, 62 have been positioned in the first and second openings 52, the cartridge 12 is ready for use and can be connected to the base part 10 in the manner described above. At this point, the cartridge 12 can be held in any orientation (e.g., as shown in Figure 4) without any leakage of vapour generating liquid from the reservoir 32 occurring.
Although exemplary embodiments have been described in the preceding paragraphs, it should be understood that various modifications may be made to those embodiments without departing from the scope of the appended claims. Thus, the breadth and scope of the claims should not be limited to the above-described exemplary embodiments.
Any combination of the above-described features in all possible variations thereof is encompassed by the present disclosure unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context.
Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout the description and the claims, the words -comprise", -comprising", and the like, are to be construed in an inclusive as opposed to an exclusive or exhaustive sense; that is to say, in the sense of "including, but not limited to".
Summary of the Disclosure According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a method of filling a cartridge for a vapour generating system, the cartridge comprising a reservoir for storing a vapour generating liquid, the method comprising:
(i) introducing a vapour generating liquid into the reservoir via a first opening;
(ii) venting air from the reservoir via a second opening during step (i); and (iii) positioning first and second valves in the corresponding first and second openings to seal the first and second openings to prevent the escape of vapour generating liquid from the reservoir through the first and second openings.
The cartridge is intended for use with a vapour generating system configured to heat the vapour generating liquid to volatise at least one component of the vapour generating liquid and thereby generate a vapour which cools and condenses to form an aerosol for inhalation by a user of the vapour generating system. The present disclosure is particularly applicable to a portable (hand-held) vapour generating system, by which it is meant that a user is able to hold and support the system unaided, in a single hand.
The vapour generating liquid may comprise polyhydric alcohols and mixtures thereof such as glycerine or propylene glycol. The vapour generating liquid may contain nicotine and may, therefore, be designated a nicotine-containing liquid. The vapour generating liquid may contain one or more additives, such as a flavouring.
In general terms, a vapour is a substance in the gas phase at a temperature lower than its critical temperature, which means that the vapour can be condensed to a liquid by increasing its pressure without reducing the temperature, whereas an aerosol is a suspension of fine solid particles or liquid droplets, in air or another gas.
It should, however, be noted that the terms 'aerosol' and 'vapour' may be used interchangeably in this specification, particularly with regard to the form of the inhalable medium that is generated for inhalation by a user.
-j -By introducing vapour generating liquid into the reservoir via the first opening and simultaneously venting air from the reservoir via the second opening, filling of the reservoir can be readily achieved without subjecting the reservoir to an overpressure.
Sealing of the first and second openings is then readily achieved by the simple step of positioning first and second valves in the corresponding first and second openings.
The cartridge may further comprise a vaporization chamber. Step (iii) may comprise positioning first and second one-way valves in the first and second openings to seal the first and second openings to prevent the escape of vapour generating liquid from the reservoir and to allow air to flow to the vaporization chamber through the first and second one-way valves. The first and second one-way valves have a dual functionality, namely preventing the escape of vapour generating liquid from the reservoir and allowing air to flow to the vaporization chamber, and thus both the structure of the cartridge and manufacture/assembly are simplified.
The cartridge may further comprise first and second air inlets in communication with the vaporization chamber. Step (iii) may comprise positioning the first and second one-way valves in the first and second air inlets to permit airflow through the first and second air inlets to the vaporization chamber. A reliable airflow to the vaporization chamber is assured through the first and second air inlets by the corresponding first and second one-way valves.
Each of the first and second one-way valves may include a first sealing portion and a second sealing portion. Step (iii) may comprise: positioning the first sealing portion of each first and second one-way valve in the corresponding first and second opening to seal the first and second openings; and positioning the second sealing portion of each first and second one-way valve in the corresponding first and second air inlet to allow one-way airflow through the first and second air inlets to the vaporization chamber. The first and second sealing portions provide each one-way valve with the dual functionality described above. In particular, the first sealing portion prevents the escape of vapour generating liquid from the reservoir by sealing the first and second openings whilst the second sealing portion allows air to flow to the vaporization chamber through the first and second air inlets. The structure of the cartridge and manufacture/assembly are thereby further simplified.
The second sealing portion may be positioned upstream of the first sealing portion in an airflow direction towards the vaporization chamber. The first sealing portion, which prevents the escape of vapour generating liquid from the reservoir, does not obstruct airflow to the vaporization chamber through the first and second air inlets.
The cartridge may include a proximal end and a distal end. The first and second openings may be positioned at the distal end. Steps (i) and (ii) may be performed with the cartridge oriented such that the distal end is positioned above the proximal end. By positioning the first and second openings in an uppermost position, filling of the reservoir with vapour generating liquid via the first opening and venting of air from the reservoir via the second opening can be performed reliably without any unwanted leakage of vapour generating liquid from the reservoir.
Step (i) may comprise introducing the vapour generating liquid into the reservoir via a filling needle or a filling tube. This may facilitate filling of the reservoir with the vapour generating liquid.
According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a cartridge for a vapour generating system, the cartridge comprising:
a reservoir configured to store a vapour generating liquid;
a first opening configured for introducing vapour generating liquid into the reservoir; and a second opening configured for venting air from the reservoir during the introduction of vapour generating liquid into the reservoir via the first opening;
wherein the cartridge further comprises a vaporization chamber and first and second one-way valves positioned in the first and second openings to prevent the escape of vapour generating liquid from the reservoir through the first and second openings and to allow air to flow to the vaporization chamber through the first and second one-way valves.
The first opening allows vapour generating liquid to be introduced into the reservoir whilst the second opening allows air to be simultaneously vented from the reservoir.
This allows the reservoir to be easily filled without subjecting the reservoir to an overpressure. By preventing the escape of vapour generating liquid from the reservoir and at the same time allowing air to flow to the vaporization chamber, the first and second one-way valves have a dual functionality thus simplifying the structure of the cartridge and improving its manufacturability and ease of assembly.
The cartridge may further comprise first and second air inlets in communication with the vaporization chamber. The first and second one-way valves may be positioned in the first and second air inlets to permit airflow through the first and second air inlets to the vaporization chamber. A reliable airflow to the vaporization chamber is assured through the first and second air inlets by the corresponding first and second one-way valves.
Each of the first and second one-way valves may include a first sealing portion and a second sealing portion. The first sealing portion of each first and second one-way valve may be positioned in the corresponding first and second opening to seal the first and second openings. The second sealing portion of each first and second one-way valve may be positioned in the corresponding first and second air inlet to allow one-way airflow through the first and second air inlets to the vaporization chamber.
The first and second sealing portions provide each one-way valve with the dual functionality described above. In particular, the first sealing portion prevents the escape of vapour generating liquid from the reservoir by sealing the first and second openings whilst the second sealing portion allows air to flow to the vaporization chamber through the first and second air inlets. The structure of the cartridge is thereby simplified.
The second sealing portion may be positioned upstream of the first sealing portion in an airflow direction towards the vaporization chamber. The first sealing portion, which prevents the escape of vapour generating liquid from the reservoir, does not obstruct airflow to the vaporization chamber through the first and second air inlets.
The cartridge may include a proximal end and may include a distal end, and the first and second openings may be positioned at the distal end. As noted above, filling of the reservoir with vapour generating liquid via the first opening and venting of air from the reservoir via the second opening is thereby facilitated, in particular when the cartridge is oriented such that the distal end is positioned above the proximal end.
The cartridge may further comprise a sorption member at least partially disposed within the vaporization chamber for absorbing vapour generating liquid from the reservoir, for example via a liquid outlet. The cartridge may further comprise a heat transfer unit which may contact the sorption member to heat the sorption member and vaporize the absorbed vapour generating liquid. This is a continuous process, in which vapour generating liquid from the reservoir is continuously absorbed by the sorption member.
Vapour generated during this process is transferred from the vaporization chamber via a vapour outlet channel in the cartridge so that it can be inhaled by a user of the vapour generating system.
The cartridge may be configured to thermically connect to a base part having at least one heating element. The heat transfer unit may be configured, when the cartridge is thermically connected to the base part, to transfer heat from the heating element to the sorption member to vaporize vapour generating liquid absorbed by the sorption member.
According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a vapour generating system comprising:
a base part having at least one heating element; and a cartridge according to the second aspect thermically connected to the base part.
The base part may include a power supply unit, e.g. a battery, connected to the heating element. In operation, upon activating the vapour generating system, the power supply unit electrically heats the heating element of the base part, which then provides its heat by conduction to the heat transfer unit of the cartridge. The heat transfer unit, in turn, provides the heat to the sorption member, resulting in vaporization of the vapour generating liquid absorbed therein. The heating element may be separated from the vaporization chamber by the heat transfer unit.
The sorption member can be made of any material or a combination of materials being able to perform sorption and/or absorption of another material, and can be made, for example, of one or more of the following materials: Fibre, glass, aluminium, cotton, ceramic, cellulose, glass fibre wick, stainless steel mesh, polyethylene (PE), polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), poly(cyclohexanedimethylene terephth al ate) (PCT), polybutylene terephth al ate (PBT), polytetrafl uoroethylene (PTFE), expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE), and BAREX , etc.
The heat transfer unit may comprise a thermally conductive material, for example, a metal such as aluminium, copper, etc.
The heating element may comprise an electrically resistive material. The heating element may include a ceramic material, for example tungsten and alloys thereof. The use of a ceramic material conveniently helps to rigidify the heating element.
The heating element may be at least partially encapsulated in, or coated with, a protective material, such as glass.
The heating element may be formed using a metal having a defined relationship between temperature and resistivity. In such embodiments, the metal may be formed as a track between two layers of suitable insulating materials. A heating element formed in this manner may be used both as a heater and a temperature sensor.
The heating element may include a temperature sensor embedded therein or attached thereto.
The power supply unit, e.g. battery, may be a DC voltage source. For example, the power supply unit may be a Nickel-metal hydride battery, a Nickel cadmium battery, or a Lithium based battery, for example a Lithium-Cobalt, a Lithium-Iron-Phosphate, a Lithium-Ion or a Lithium-Polymer battery.
The base part may further comprise a processor associated with electrical components of the vapour generating system, including the battery.
The cartridge may further comprise: a cartridge housing at least partially including the reservoir and the vaporization chamber, and a vapour outlet channel extending along the cartridge housing and in fluid communication with the vaporization chamber. The cartridge housing may have a proximal end configured as a mouthpiece end which is in fluid communication with the vaporization chamber via the vapour outlet channel and a distal end associated with the heat transfer unit. The mouthpiece end may be configured for providing the vaporized liquid (i.e., vapour or aerosol) to the user. The heat transfer unit may be disposed at the distal end. The heat transfer unit may be substantially perpendicular to the vapour outlet channel.
The reservoir may be juxtaposed with the vapour outlet channel extending between the vaporization chamber and the mouthpiece end. The reservoir may be disposed around the vapour outlet channel.
The cartridge housing may be made of one or more of the following materials:
aluminium, poly ether ether ketone (PEEK), polyimides, such as Kaptonk, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyethylene (PE), high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polypropylene (PP), polystyrene (PS), fluorinated ethylene propylene (FEP), polytetrafluoroethyl en e (PTFE), polyoxymethyl ene (POM), polybutylene terephthal ate (PBT), Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), Polycarbonates (PC), epoxy resins, polyurethane resins and vinyl resins.
Brief Description of the Drawings Figure 1 is a diagrammatic view of a vapour generating system comprising a base part and a cartridge;
Figure 2 is a perspective view of an example of a cartridge according to the present disclosure;
Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of the cartridge shown in Figure 2 prior to sealing first and second openings;
Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of the cartridge shown in Figures 2 to 4 after sealing the first and second openings; and Figure 5 is a flowchart illustrating one example of a method for filling a cartridge according to the present disclosure with a vapour generating liquid.
Detailed Description of Embodiments Embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings.
Referring initially to Figure 1, there is shown diagrammatically a vapour generating system 1 for vaporizing a vapour generating liquid to generate a vapour (or aerosol) for inhalation by a user of the system 1. The vapour generating system 1 comprises a base part 10 and a cartridge 12 thermically connected to the base part 10. The base part 10 is thus the main body part of the vapour generating system 1 and is preferably re-usable.
The base part 12 comprises a housing 14 accommodating a power supply unit in the form of a battery 16 connected to a resistive heating element 18 located at a first end 14a of the housing 14. The first end 14a of the housing 14 has an interface 15 configured for matching a corresponding interface of the cartridge 12. The interface 15 may, for example, be in the shape of a tubular cartridge seating and can comprise a connector for releasably connecting the cartridge 12 to the cartridge seating. The battery 16 is configured for providing the heating element 18 with the necessary electrical power for its operation, allowing it to become heated to a required temperature. The battery 16 is also connected to a processor 20, enabling the required power supply for its operation.
The processor 20 is connected to the heating element 18 and controls its operation.
Referring additionally to Figures 2 to 4, the cartridge 12 comprises a cartridge housing 22 having a proximal end 24 and a distal end 26. The proximal end 24 may constitute a mouthpiece end configured for being introduced directly into a user's mouth and may, therefore, also be designated as the mouth end 24. in some embodiments, a mouthpiece may be fitted to the proximal end 24. However, it is also possible to configure the vapour generating system 1 with a separate mouthpiece portion, releasably connectable to the base part 10 and whereby the cartridge 12 is enclosed inside the vapour generating system 1.
The cartridge 12 comprises abase portion 28 and a liquid storage portion 30.
The liquid storage portion 30 comprises a reservoir 32, configured for containing therein a vapour generating liquid, and a vapour outlet channel 34. The vapour generating liquid may comprise an aerosol-forming substance such as propylene glycol and/or glycerol and may contain other substances such as nicotine and acids. The vapour generating liquid may also comprise flavourings such as, e.g., tobacco, menthol, or fruit flavour. The reservoir 32 may extend generally between the proximal end 24 and the distal end 26, but is spaced from the distal end 26. The reservoir 32 may surround, and coextend with, the vapour outlet channel 34.
As best seen in Figure 4, the base portion 28 of the cartridge 12 may be configured to sealingly close off the distal end 26 of the cartridge 12. The base portion 28 comprises a plug assembly 36 comprising first and second plug members 36a, 36b, a disc shaped sorption member 38 having a centrally positioned hole 40 and a heat transfer unit 42 which are all positioned at the distal end 26 of the cartridge housing 22, and more particularly in the space formed between the reservoir 32 and the distal end 26. The plug assembly 36, and more specifically the first plug member 36a, closes the distal end 26 of the cartridge housing 22 and thereby retains the vapour generating liquid in the reservoir 32.
The first plug member 36a is provided with a circumferential surface 46 that is in contact with the inner circumferential surface of the reservoir 32. The first plug member 36a may be formed of a material with an elasticity that provides a sealing effect when the circumferential surface 46 contacts the inner circumferential surface of the reservoir 32. For example, the first plug member 32a may comprise rubber or silicone.
Alternatively, the first plug member 36a may comprise a thermoplastic material which enables the first plug member 36a and the reservoir 32 to be joined together by, e.g., ultrasonic welding. The first plug member 36a comprises a connecting portion 44 which is configured to sealingly connect to a distal end 34a of the vapour outlet channel 34 as shown in Figures 3 and 4.
The cartridge 12 includes a vaporization chamber 48 defined between the first plug member 36a and the heat transfer unit 42. The sorption member 38 is positioned in the vaporization chamber 48. The first plug member 36a includes a plurality of circumferentially spaced liquid outlets 50 which provide a controlled flow of vapour generating liquid from the reservoir 32 to the sorption member 38 positioned in the vaporization chamber 48 adjacent to the liquid outlets 50.
The sorption member 38 is positioned in the vaporization chamber 48 between the liquid outlets 50 and the heat transfer unit 42. The sorption member 38 is configured, on the one hand, for absorbing therein some of the vapour generating liquid from the reservoir 32, and, on the other hand, for being heated by the heat transfer unit 42 thereby allowing the vapour generating liquid absorbed therein to be vaporized in the vaporization chamber 48.
When the base part 10 and the cartridge 12 are assembled together as shown in Figure 1, the heating element 18 of the base part 10 contacts the heat transfer unit 42 of the cartridge 12, such that the cartridge 12 is thermically connected to the base part 10. In operation, the heating element 18 is resistively heated by the power from the battery 16 and provides its heat to the heat transfer unit 42 via conduction. The heat from the heat transfer unit 42 is then transferred to the sorption member 38, mainly by conduction.
Thus, the sorption member 38 is heated indirectly by the heat transfer unit 42, and not directly by the heating element 18 of the base part 10. The heating element 18 in the base part 12 ideally needs to attain a temperature of around 500 C in order to transfer enough heat such that the connection between the sorption member 38 and the heat transfer unit 42 reaches a temperature at which vaporization occurs (typically between 200 C and 250 C). As a result of heating of the sorption member 38, the vapour generating liquid absorbed therein from the reservoir 32 is vaporized in the vaporization chamber 48, and the vapour escapes from the vaporization chamber 48 via the vapour outlet channel 34 when a user sucks on the proximal (mouth) end 24 of the cartridge 12. The vapour cools and condenses as it flows through the vapour outlet channel 34 to form an aerosol that can be inhaled by a user via the proximal (mouth) end 24.
The cartridge 12 comprises first and second openings 52, 54 in communication with the reservoir 32 which allow the reservoir 32 to be filled with vapour generating liquid.
Specifically, the first opening 52 allows vapour generating liquid to be introduced into the reservoir 32 whilst the second opening 54 allows air to be vented from the reservoir 32 whilst it is being filled with vapour generating liquid via the first opening 52. Thus, overpressure inside the reservoir 32 is avoided during filling and the reservoir 32 can be easily filled with vapour generating liquid. In the illustrated example, the first and second openings 52, 54 are at the distal end 26 of the cartridge housing 22 and are formed in the first plug member 36a.
The cartridge 12 also comprises first and second air inlets 56, 58 to allow air to flow to the vaporization chamber 48 during use of the vapour generating system 1 when a user sucks on the proximal (mouth) end 24 of the cartridge 12 as described above.
In the illustrated example, the first and second air inlets 56, 58 are formed in the second plug member 36b and allow air to flow to the vaporization chamber 48 along a path formed between the first and second plug members 36a, 36b as shown in Figure 4.
The cartridge 12 comprises first and second one-way valves 60, 62. both of which include a first sealing portion 60a, 62a and a second sealing portion 60b, 62b. When the first and second one-way valves 60, 62 are fitted to the cartridge as shown in Figure 4, the first sealing portions 60a, 62a are positioned in the corresponding first and second openings 52, 54 and the second sealing portions 6013, 62b are positioned in the first and second air inlets 56, 58. The first sealing portions 60a, 62a provide a liquid tight seal which prevents the escape of vapour generating liquid from the reservoir 32 via the first and second openings 52, 54 after the reservoir 32 has been filled with vapour generating liquid in the manner described above. The first and second one-way valves 60, 62 are typically formed of a material with an elasticity that provides a sealing effect when the first sealing portions 60a, 62a are positioned in the corresponding first and second openings 52, 54. For example, the first and second one-way valves 60, 62 may comprise rubber or silicone.
The second sealing portions 60b, 62b, which may comprise a duck bill valve or a similar non-return valve, allow air to flow to the vaporization chamber 48 through the first and second air inlets 56, 58, but do not allow air to flow in the opposite direction. As shown in Figure 4, the second sealing portion 60b, 62b of each first and second one-way valve 60, 62 is positioned upstream of the first sealing portion 60a, 62a in an airflow direction towards the vaporization chamber 48. Thus, air can flow to the vaporization chamber 48 through the second sealing portions 60b, 62b and the first and second air inlets 56, 58, without being obstructed by the first sealing portions 60a, 62a. Thus, the geometry of the first sealing portions 60a, 62a can be optimised to provide a liquid-tight seal and thereby prevent the leakage of vapour generating liquid from the reservoir 32.
As illustrated in Figure 6, an exemplary method of filling the cartridge 12 comprises the steps of:
Si - introducing a vapour generating liquid into the reservoir 32 via a first opening 52;
S2 - venting air from the reservoir 32 via a second opening 54 during step Si;
and S3 - positioning first and second valves 60, 62 (e.g., one-way valves as described above) in the corresponding first and second openings 52, 54 to seal the first and openings 52, 54 to prevent the escape of vapour generating liquid from the reservoir 32 through the first and second openings 52, 54.
Step Si is performed with the cartridge 12 oriented as shown in Figure 3, that is with the distal end 26 positioned above the proximal end 24. A filling needle or filling tube can be used to facilitate the introduction of vapour generating liquid into the reservoir 32 via the first opening 52 and thereby minimise the risk of spillage. The first and second one-way valves 60, 62 are then positioned in the first and second openings 52, 54 (step S3) with the distal end 26 positioned above the proximal end 24.
Because of the elastic and flexible nature of the first and second one-way valves 60, 62, they can be pushed into the first and second openings 52, 54 allowing a liquid-tight seal to be formed. After the cartridge 12 has been filled with vapour generating liquid and the first and second one-way valves 60, 62 have been positioned in the first and second openings 52, the cartridge 12 is ready for use and can be connected to the base part 10 in the manner described above. At this point, the cartridge 12 can be held in any orientation (e.g., as shown in Figure 4) without any leakage of vapour generating liquid from the reservoir 32 occurring.
Although exemplary embodiments have been described in the preceding paragraphs, it should be understood that various modifications may be made to those embodiments without departing from the scope of the appended claims. Thus, the breadth and scope of the claims should not be limited to the above-described exemplary embodiments.
Any combination of the above-described features in all possible variations thereof is encompassed by the present disclosure unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context.
Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout the description and the claims, the words -comprise", -comprising", and the like, are to be construed in an inclusive as opposed to an exclusive or exhaustive sense; that is to say, in the sense of "including, but not limited to".
Claims (14)
1.
A method of filling a cartridge (12) for a vapour generating system (1), the cartridge (12) comprising a reservoir (32) for storing a vapour generating liquid, the method comprising:
(i) introducing a vapour generating liquid into the reservoir (32) via a first opening (52);
(ii) venting air from the reservoir (32) via a second opening (54) during step (i);
and (iii) positioning first and second valves (60, 62) in the corresponding first and second openings (52, 54) to seal the first and second openings (52, 54) to prevent the escape of vapour generating liquid from the reservoir (32) through the first and second openings (52, 54).
A method of filling a cartridge (12) for a vapour generating system (1), the cartridge (12) comprising a reservoir (32) for storing a vapour generating liquid, the method comprising:
(i) introducing a vapour generating liquid into the reservoir (32) via a first opening (52);
(ii) venting air from the reservoir (32) via a second opening (54) during step (i);
and (iii) positioning first and second valves (60, 62) in the corresponding first and second openings (52, 54) to seal the first and second openings (52, 54) to prevent the escape of vapour generating liquid from the reservoir (32) through the first and second openings (52, 54).
2.
A method according to claim 1, wherein the cartridge (12) further comprises a vaporization chamber (48), and step (iii) comprises positioning first and second one-way valves (60, 62) in the first and second openings (52, 54) to seal the first and second openings (52, 54) to prevent the escape of vapour generating liquid from the reservoir (32) and to allow air to flow to the vaporization chamber (48) through the first and second one-way valves (60, 62).
A method according to claim 1, wherein the cartridge (12) further comprises a vaporization chamber (48), and step (iii) comprises positioning first and second one-way valves (60, 62) in the first and second openings (52, 54) to seal the first and second openings (52, 54) to prevent the escape of vapour generating liquid from the reservoir (32) and to allow air to flow to the vaporization chamber (48) through the first and second one-way valves (60, 62).
3.
A method according to claim 2, wherein the cartridge (12) further comprises first and second air inlets (56, 58) in communication with the vaporization chamber (48), and step (iii) comprises positioning the first and second one-way valves (60, 62) in the first and second air inlets (56, 58) to permit airflow through the first and second air inlets (56, 58) to the vaporization chamber (48).
A method according to claim 2, wherein the cartridge (12) further comprises first and second air inlets (56, 58) in communication with the vaporization chamber (48), and step (iii) comprises positioning the first and second one-way valves (60, 62) in the first and second air inlets (56, 58) to permit airflow through the first and second air inlets (56, 58) to the vaporization chamber (48).
4.
A method according to claim 3, wherein each of the first and second one-way valves (60, 62) includes a first sealing portion (60a, 62a) and a second sealing portion (60b, 62b), and step (iii) comprises: positioning the first sealing portion (60a, 62a) of each first and second one-way valve (60, 62) in the corresponding first and second opening (52, 54) to seal the first and second openings (52, 54); and positioning the second sealing portion (601,, 62b) of each first and second one-way valve (60, 62) in the corresponding first and second air inlet (56, 58) to allow one-way airflow through the first and second air inlets (56, 58) to the vaporization chamber (48).
A method according to claim 3, wherein each of the first and second one-way valves (60, 62) includes a first sealing portion (60a, 62a) and a second sealing portion (60b, 62b), and step (iii) comprises: positioning the first sealing portion (60a, 62a) of each first and second one-way valve (60, 62) in the corresponding first and second opening (52, 54) to seal the first and second openings (52, 54); and positioning the second sealing portion (601,, 62b) of each first and second one-way valve (60, 62) in the corresponding first and second air inlet (56, 58) to allow one-way airflow through the first and second air inlets (56, 58) to the vaporization chamber (48).
5. A method according to claim 4, wherein the second sealing portion (60b, 62b) is positioned upstream of the first sealing portion (60a, 62a) in an airflow direction towards the vaporization charnber (48).
6. A method according to any preceding claim, wherein the cartridge (12) includes a proximal end (24) and a distal end (26), the first and second openings (52, 54) are positioned at the distal end (26). and steps (i) and (ii) are performed with the cartridge (12) oriented such that the distal end (26) is positioned above the proximal end (24).
7. A method according to any preceding claim, wherein step (i) comprises introducing the vapour generating liquid into the reservoir (32) via a filling needle or a filling tube.
8. A cartridge (12) for a vapour generating system (1), the cartridge comprising:
a reservoir (32) configured to store a vapour generating liquid;
a first opening (52) configured for introducing vapour generating liquid into the reservoir (32); and a second opening (54) configured for venting air from the reservoir (32) during the introduction of vapour generating liquid into the reservoir (32) via the first opening (52);
wherein the cartridge (12) further comprises a vaporization chamber (48) and first and second one-way valves (60, 62) positioned in the first and second openings (52, 54) to prevent the escape of liquid from the reservoir (32) through the first and second openings (52, 54) and to allow air to flow to the vaporization chamber (48) through the first and second one-way valves (60, 62).
a reservoir (32) configured to store a vapour generating liquid;
a first opening (52) configured for introducing vapour generating liquid into the reservoir (32); and a second opening (54) configured for venting air from the reservoir (32) during the introduction of vapour generating liquid into the reservoir (32) via the first opening (52);
wherein the cartridge (12) further comprises a vaporization chamber (48) and first and second one-way valves (60, 62) positioned in the first and second openings (52, 54) to prevent the escape of liquid from the reservoir (32) through the first and second openings (52, 54) and to allow air to flow to the vaporization chamber (48) through the first and second one-way valves (60, 62).
9. A cartridge according to claim 8, wherein the cartridge (12) further comprises first and second air inlets (56, 58) in communication with the vaporization chamber (48), and the first and second one-way valves (60, 62) are positioned in the first and second air inlets (56, 58) to permit airflow through the first and second air inlets (56, 58) to the vaporization chamber (48).
10. A cartridge according to claim 9, wherein each of the first and second one-way valves (60, 62) include a first sealing portion (60a, 62a) and a second sealing portion (60b, 62b), the first sealing portion (60a, 62a) of each first and second one-way valve (60, 62) is positioned in the corresponding first and second opening (52, 54) to seal the first and second openings (52, 54), and the second sealing portion (60b, 62b) of each first and second one-way valve (60, 62) is positioned in the corresponding first and second air inlet (56. 58) to allow one-way airflow through the first and second air inlets (56, 58) to the vaporization chamber (48).
11. A cartridge according to claim 10, wherein the second sealing portion (60b, 62b) is positioned upstream of the first sealing portion (60a, 62a) in an airflow direction towards the vaporization chamber (48).
12. A cartridge according to any of claims 8 to 11, wherein the cartridge (12) includes a proximal end (24) and a distal end (26), and the first and second openings (52, 54) are positioned at the distal end (26).
13. A vapour generating system (1) comprising:
a base part (10) having at least one heating element (18); and a cartridge (12) according to any of claims 8 to 12 thermically connected to the base part (10).
a base part (10) having at least one heating element (18); and a cartridge (12) according to any of claims 8 to 12 thermically connected to the base part (10).
14. A vapour generating system according to claim 13, wherein the cartridge (12) includes a heat transfer unit (42) and the heating element (18) is separated from the vaporization chamber (48) by the heat transfer unit (42).
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| EP20203482 | 2020-10-23 | ||
| EP20203482.3 | 2020-10-23 | ||
| PCT/EP2021/078644 WO2022084187A1 (en) | 2020-10-23 | 2021-10-15 | A method of filling a cartridge for a vapour generating system |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA3196121A1 true CA3196121A1 (en) | 2022-04-28 |
Family
ID=73013335
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA3196121A Pending CA3196121A1 (en) | 2020-10-23 | 2021-10-15 | A method of filling a cartridge for a vapour generating system |
Country Status (6)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| US (1) | US20230399134A1 (en) |
| EP (1) | EP4231860A1 (en) |
| JP (1) | JP2023546318A (en) |
| CN (1) | CN116437824A (en) |
| CA (1) | CA3196121A1 (en) |
| WO (1) | WO2022084187A1 (en) |
Family Cites Families (3)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DE102015217671B4 (en) * | 2015-09-15 | 2020-12-31 | Fontem Holdings 1 B.V. | Device and method for filling an electronic cigarette |
| CN108778008B (en) * | 2016-03-31 | 2021-09-24 | 菲利普莫里斯生产公司 | Aerosol-generating system with separate enclosure and evaporation unit |
| GB201721766D0 (en) * | 2017-12-22 | 2018-02-07 | British American Tobacco Investments Ltd | Electronic aerosol provision system |
-
2021
- 2021-10-15 CA CA3196121A patent/CA3196121A1/en active Pending
- 2021-10-15 JP JP2023516092A patent/JP2023546318A/en active Pending
- 2021-10-15 CN CN202180071499.3A patent/CN116437824A/en active Pending
- 2021-10-15 US US18/032,278 patent/US20230399134A1/en active Pending
- 2021-10-15 WO PCT/EP2021/078644 patent/WO2022084187A1/en active Application Filing
- 2021-10-15 EP EP21794144.2A patent/EP4231860A1/en active Pending
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| JP2023546318A (en) | 2023-11-02 |
| WO2022084187A1 (en) | 2022-04-28 |
| EP4231860A1 (en) | 2023-08-30 |
| US20230399134A1 (en) | 2023-12-14 |
| CN116437824A (en) | 2023-07-14 |
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