CN114901093A - Aerosol-generating device with adaptation to the surrounding environment - Google Patents

Abstract

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

Description

Aerosol-generating device with adaptation to the surrounding environment

Technical Field

The present invention relates to an aerosol-generating device.

Background

Aerosol-generating devices are known. One type of aerosol-generating device is an electronic cigarette. Electronic cigarettes typically use a liquid aerosol-forming substrate that is vaporised to form an aerosol. A "heated non-combustion" (HNB) device may heat one or more solid aerosol-forming substrates to a temperature at which one or more components of the aerosol-forming substrate volatilise without combusting the solid aerosol-forming substrate. In addition, hybrid aerosol-generating devices having both a liquid aerosol-forming function and an HNB function are known. These three devices, the liquid aerosol-forming device or electronic cigarette, the HNB device and the mixing device are all aerosol-generating devices.

In an aerosol-generating device, ambient air is drawn into the device to generate an inhalable aerosol. The environmental conditions (particularly temperature and humidity) may affect the aerosol generated due to differences in the ambient air drawn into the aerosol generating device.

It is desirable to have an aerosol-generating device with consistent aerosol generation. It is desirable to have an aerosol-generating device in which the effect of conditions of inhalation of ambient air in the aerosol-generating device is minimised or eliminated.

Disclosure of Invention

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

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

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

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

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

The diffuser may comprise a plurality of fibres. The diffuser may include a plurality of voids. Voids may be disposed between the fibers. The diffuser may comprise a mesh. The fibers may form a web. Voids may be disposed between the fibers making up the web. This shape of the diffuser may result in the formation of air bubbles as air flows through the diffuser and into the liquid storage portion.

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

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

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

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

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

The one-way valve of the fluid outlet may protrude from the downstream end of the barrel.

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

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

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

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

The one-way valve of the fluid outlet may have a smaller diameter than the one-way valve of the air inlet. Thus, a plurality of cartridges may be stacked on top of each other. In more detail, the relatively large one-way valve of the air inlet of the cartridge may be placed on top of the relatively small one-way valve of the air outlet of the cartridge. In this way, at least two cartridges (preferably more than two cartridges) can be stacked on top of each other. Cartridges that are adhered on top of each other may cause ambient air to be subsequently drawn through all of these cartridges. This embodiment may be beneficial if the user uses multiple cartridges simultaneously. Potentially, this may increase the entrainment of liquid sensing medium by ambient air drawn through the cartridge. Alternatively, different liquid sensing mediums may be provided in different cartridges. A combination of different liquid sensing media may be entrained in the ambient air drawn through the cartridges.

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

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

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

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

The cartridge may comprise a housing.

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

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

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

The opaque or transparent portions of the cartridge may be UV resistant. The opaque or transparent portion of the barrel may comprise a UV resistant polymer. The opaque or transparent portion of the barrel may include a UV resistant coating. The UV resistance may increase the shelf life of the liquid sensing medium in the liquid storage portion.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The liquid sensing medium of one cartridge may comprise one of nicotine, flavourings and water, and the liquid sensing medium of another cartridge may comprise a different one of nicotine, flavourings and water.

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

The liquid storage portion of the cartridge may comprise two or more separate liquid storage compartments. Each liquid storage compartment may comprise a liquid comprising a liquid sensing medium. Each liquid storage compartment may comprise the same liquid. Alternatively, at least one liquid storage compartment may comprise a liquid composition different from the liquid composition of another liquid storage compartment. At least one of the liquid storage compartments may comprise a liquid sensing medium different from the liquid sensing medium of another liquid storage compartment.

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

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

The liquid storage portion may comprise two or more liquid storage compartments connected in parallel. The liquid storage portion may comprise two or more liquid storage compartments connected in parallel such that when the cartridge is attached to both the top portion and the main portion, a continuous fluid connection is provided to the cavity from the main air inlet via one of the liquid storage compartments of the liquid storage portion of the cartridge along the main air inlet and the top airflow channel. Alternatively, the liquid storage portion may comprise two or more liquid storage compartments connected in parallel, such that when the cartridge is attached to both the top portion and the main portion, a continuous fluid connection to the cavity is provided via at least two of the liquid storage compartments connected in parallel of the liquid storage portion of the cartridge along the main and top airflow channels.

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

Alternatively or additionally, an aerosol may be generated that is modified by the superposition of different liquid sensing media from different liquid storage compartments. For example, different liquid sensing mediums including different flavoring agents may be used in different liquid storage compartments. Thus, a user may participate in aerosol generation by selecting a particular combination of liquid storage compartments to create a particular taste that combines different flavourings.

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

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

The user experience is changeable by virtue of the different types and configurations of cartridges. With different types and configurations of cartridges, the user experience may be varied by the user. With different types and configurations of cartridges, the user experience is more easily altered. The flavour of the aerosol generated is changeable by means of different types and configurations of cartridges. The nicotine content of the aerosol generated is variable by means of different types and configurations of cartridges.

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

Each individual liquid storage section compartment preferably comprises a diffuser as described herein.

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

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

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

The aerosol-generating device may comprise an airflow channel. The airflow channel may start at an air inlet of the aerosol-generating device. Downstream of the air inlet, the air flow channel may open into the receiving area. If the cartridge is received in the receiving region, the airflow passage may fluidly connect the air inlet of the aerosol-generating device with the air inlet of the cartridge received in the receiving region. Subsequently, air may be drawn through the cartridge as described herein. The airflow passage may extend downstream of the fluid outlet of the cartridge towards the cavity of the aerosol-generating device. In the cavity, air enriched with the cartridge's liquid sensing medium may flow through the aerosol-generating article received in the cavity. The aerosol-generating device may comprise a heating element for heating the air and aerosol-generating article in the chamber. Thus, the aerosol-forming substrate of the aerosol-generating article may be heated together with air flowing from the airflow channel into the cavity. An aerosol may thus be generated and subsequently inhaled by the user.

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

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

The aerosol-generating device may be used without attaching the cartridge to the aerosol-generating device, but receiving the aerosol-generating article in the cavity. Thus, the inhalable aerosol may contain only material derived from the aerosol-forming substrate comprised in the aerosol-generating article.

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

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

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

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

The cavity may be arranged in a top portion of the aerosol-generating device. In addition, the aerosol-generating device may comprise a main portion. A receiving area for receiving the cartridge may be arranged between the top portion and the main portion. The cartridge may be sandwiched between the top portion and the main portion.

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

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

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

In another implementation, the switching frequency of the power amplifier may be in a lower kHz range, such as between 100kHz and 400 kHz. In embodiments using class D or class C power amplifiers, switching frequencies in the lower kHz range are particularly advantageous. The switching transistor will have ramp up and ramp down times, an off time and an on time. Thus, if a set of two or four (in pair operation) switching transistors is used in a class D power amplifier, the switching frequency in the lower kHz range will take into account the necessary off-time of one transistor before ramping up the second transistor to avoid damaging the power amplifier.

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

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

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

The internal or external heating element may comprise a heat sink or reservoir comprising a material capable of absorbing and storing heat and then releasing the heat to the aerosol-forming substrate over time. The heat sink may be formed of any suitable material, such as a suitable metal or ceramic material. In one embodiment, the material has a high heat capacity (sensible heat storage material), or the material is one that is capable of absorbing and then releasing heat via a reversible process (e.g., high temperature phase change). Suitable sensible heat storage materials include silica gel, alumina, carbon, glass mat, glass fiber, minerals, metals or alloys such as aluminum, silver or lead, and cellulosic materials such as paper. Other suitable materials that release heat via a reversible phase change include paraffin, sodium acetate, naphthalene, wax, polyethylene oxide, metals, metal salts, optimum salt mixtures or alloys. The heat sink or heat reservoir may be arranged such that it directly contacts the aerosol-forming substrate and may transfer stored heat directly to the substrate. Furthermore, heat stored in the heat sink or heat reservoir may be transferred to the aerosol-forming substrate via a thermally conductive body (e.g. a metal tube).

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

During operation, the aerosol-forming substrate may be fully contained within the aerosol-generating device. In this case, the user may aspirate the mouthpiece of the aerosol-generating device. Alternatively, during operation, a smoking article containing an aerosol-forming substrate may be housed within the aerosol-generating device. In this case, the user may directly apply the smoking article to the smoking article.

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

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

The central susceptor arrangement may be a tubular susceptor. The inductive heating element may comprise a peripheral induction coil and a tubular susceptor. The tubular susceptor may surround at least a portion of the top airflow passage.

The peripheral susceptor means may be an additional tubular susceptor. The additional tubular susceptor may surround at least a portion of the cavity.

The inductive heating element may comprise a peripheral induction coil, a tubular susceptor and an attachment tubular susceptor. The induction coil, the tubular susceptor and the additional tubular susceptor may be coaxially aligned.

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

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

The downstream end portion of the central susceptor apparatus may be rounded, preferably curved inwardly towards the central longitudinal axis of the chamber. The downstream end portion of the central susceptor may be rounded, preferably curved inwardly towards the central longitudinal axis of the cavity. If a plurality of central susceptors is provided, preferably each downstream end portion of each central susceptor may be rounded, preferably curved inwardly towards the central longitudinal axis of the cavity. The rounded end portions may facilitate insertion of the aerosol-generating article over the central susceptor arrangement. Instead of rounded end portions, the end portions may taper or chamfer towards the longitudinal central axis of the cavity.

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

The central susceptor means may be hollow. The central susceptor arrangement may comprise at least two central susceptors defining a hollow cavity between the central susceptors. The hollow configuration of the central susceptor arrangement may enable an air flow into the hollow central susceptor arrangement. The top gas flow passage may extend through the hollow central susceptor arrangement. The core may be provided within a hollow central susceptor apparatus. As described herein, preferably the central susceptor arrangement comprises at least two central susceptors. Preferably, a gap is provided between at least two central susceptors. Thus, an air flow is enabled through the central susceptor arrangement. So that the gas flow can be parallel or along the longitudinal central axis of the chamber. Preferably, by means of the gap, the gas flow can be in a lateral direction. The lateral airflow may enable aerosol to be generated due to contact between incoming air and the aerosol-generating substrate of the aerosol-generating article through gaps between the central susceptor. Heating of the central susceptor arrangement may result in heating of a core disposed within the hollow central susceptor arrangement. Heating of the wick may result in aerosol generation within the hollow central susceptor apparatus. Additionally or alternatively, heating the central susceptor apparatus may result in aerosol generation within the hollow central susceptor apparatus when the aerosol-generating article is inserted into the cavity. The central susceptor arrangement may be configured to heat the interior of the aerosol-generating article. The aerosol may be drawn in a downstream direction through the hollow central susceptor device.

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

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

The peripheral susceptor arrangement may comprise at least two peripheral susceptors. The peripheral susceptor means may comprise a plurality of peripheral susceptors. At least one, preferably all, of the peripheral susceptors may be elongated. At least one, preferably all, of the peripheral susceptors may be blade-shaped.

The downstream end portion of the peripheral susceptor apparatus may be flared. At least one, preferably all, of the peripheral susceptors may have a flared downstream end portion.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Both the top cartridge connector and the main cartridge connector may comprise a conductive element adapted to establish electrical contact between the top section and the main section when the top cartridge connector is directly attached to the main cartridge connector according to the second mode of operation. Alternatively or additionally, both the top cartridge connector and the main cartridge connector may comprise an electrically conductive element adapted to establish electrical contact between the top portion and the main portion when the top cartridge connector is attached to the proximal end of the cartridge and the main cartridge connector is attached to the distal end of the cartridge according to the first mode of operation.

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

The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a plant-based material. The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise tobacco. The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a tobacco-containing material comprising volatile tobacco flavour compounds that are released from the aerosol-forming substrate upon heating. Alternatively, the aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a non-tobacco material. The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a homogeneous plant substrate material. The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise homogenised tobacco material. The homogenized tobacco material may be formed by agglomerating particulate tobacco. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate may comprise an aggregated crimped sheet of homogenised tobacco material. As used herein, the term "crimped sheet" means a sheet having a plurality of generally parallel ridges or corrugations.

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

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

The following provides a non-exhaustive list of non-limiting examples. Any one or more features of these examples may be combined with any one or more features of another example, embodiment, or aspect described herein.

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

a downstream end comprising a fluid outlet,

an upstream end comprising an air inlet,

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

The diffuser is provided with a plurality of air inlets,

wherein the diffuser is arranged downstream of the air inlet.

The cartridge of embodiment a, wherein the diffuser is attached to the air inlet.

The cartridge of any preceding embodiment, wherein the diffuser is arranged adjacent to the air inlet.

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

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

The cartridge of any preceding embodiment wherein the diffuser is pad-shaped.

The cartridge of any preceding embodiment, wherein the diffuser comprises a plurality of fibers.

The cartridge of any preceding embodiment, wherein the diffuser comprises a plurality of voids.

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

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

The cartridge of any preceding embodiment, wherein the air inlet is configured to enable ambient air to be drawn into the cartridge.

The cartridge of any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the fluid outlet is configured to enable fluid to be drawn from the cartridge.

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

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

Cartridge according to embodiment M or N, wherein the one-way valve of the fluid outlet is made of plastic, preferably EPDM or PEEK.

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

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

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

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

T: the cartridge of any preceding embodiment M-O or S, wherein the one-way valve of the fluid outlet has a diameter of between 0.75 mm and 7 mm, preferably between 1 mm and 5 mm, most preferably between 1.5 mm and 3 mm.

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

The cartridge of any preceding embodiment, wherein the height of the cartridge is between 7 mm and 40 mm, preferably between 9 mm and 25 mm, most preferably between 11 mm and 21 mm.

The cartridge of any preceding embodiment, wherein the cartridge comprises a housing.

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

Y. the cartridge of embodiment W or X, wherein the housing has a double wall.

The cartridge of any of embodiments W-Y, wherein the housing comprises a transparent plastic or glass, preferably borosilicate glass.

The cartridge of any of embodiments W-Z, wherein the air inlet is disposed in the housing.

The cartridge of any of embodiments W-AA, wherein the fluid outlet is disposed in the housing.

The cartridge of any of embodiments W-AB, wherein the housing is at least partially opaque or transparent.

The cartridge of any of embodiments W-AC, wherein the housing is completely opaque or transparent.

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

The cartridge of any of embodiments AC-AE, wherein the opaque or transparent portion of the cartridge comprises a UV resistant polymer.

The cartridge of any of embodiments AC-AF, wherein the opaque or transparent portion of the cartridge comprises a UV resistant coating.

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

AI-a cartridge according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the downstream end comprises electrical connection means.

AJ the cartridge of any preceding embodiment, wherein the upstream end comprises electrical connection means.

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

The cartridge of any preceding embodiment, wherein the liquid sensing medium comprises nicotine.

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

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

Kit according to embodiment AN, wherein the kit comprises two or more serially connected cartridges.

A kit according to embodiment AN or AO, wherein said kit comprises two or more cartridges connected in parallel.

A kit according to any of embodiments AN to AP, wherein the liquid sensing medium of one cartridge is different from the liquid sensing medium of another cartridge.

A kit according to any of embodiments AN to AQ, wherein the liquid sensing medium of one cartridge comprises one of nicotine, flavourings and water and the liquid sensing medium of the other cartridge comprises a different one of nicotine, flavourings and water.

AN aerosol-generating device comprising a cavity for receiving AN aerosol-generating article comprising AN aerosol-forming substrate, wherein the aerosol-generating device is configured to removably receive a cartridge according to any of embodiments a to AN or a kit according to any of embodiments AN to AR.

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

Drawings

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

FIG. 1 shows a cartridge according to the present invention;

figure 2 shows an aerosol-generating device according to the invention;

FIG. 3 shows other embodiments comprising two cartridges;

FIG. 4 shows other embodiments of the cartridge;

figure 5 shows an embodiment of an aerosol-generating device using the cartridge shown in figure 4; and is provided with

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

Detailed Description

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

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

A diffuser 20 is provided that is fluidly attached to the air inlet 16. The diffuser 20 is configured to laterally distribute air entering the liquid storage portion 12 via the air inlet 16. The diffuser 20 is disk or pad shaped. The diffuser 20 comprises a fibrous web. Providing voids between the webs. Air entering through the air inlet 16 is drawn through the diffuser 20. After exiting the diffuser 20, the air is configured as a large number of bubbles that are drawn through the liquid sensing medium 14.

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

Fig. 2 shows an embodiment of an aerosol-generating device 26. The cartridge 10 as described in connection with fig. 1 may be used with an aerosol-generating device 26. The aerosol-generating device 26 comprises a top portion 28 and a body 30.

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

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

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

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

Fig. 3 shows an embodiment in which two cartridges 10 are attached to each other. The cartridge 10 shown in fig. 3 has a rectangular cross-section compared to the circular cross-section of the cartridge 10 shown in fig. 1. This shows that the particular shape of the cartridge 10 can be suitably selected. Where appropriate, two cylindrical cartridges 10 as shown in fig. 1 may be stacked rather than the particular cartridge 10 stacked as shown in fig. 3.

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

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

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

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

Claims (22)

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

a downstream end comprising a fluid outlet, wherein the fluid outlet comprises a one-way valve,

an upstream end comprising an air inlet, wherein the air inlet comprises a one-way valve,

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

The diffuser is provided with a plurality of air inlets,

wherein the diffuser is arranged downstream of the air inlet.

2. The cartridge of claim 1, wherein the diffuser is attached to the air inlet.

3. A cartridge according to any preceding claim, wherein the diffuser is arranged adjacent the air inlet.

4. A cartridge according to any preceding claim, wherein the diffuser is fluidly connected with the air inlet.

5. A cartridge according to any preceding claim, wherein the diffuser is disc-shaped or mat-shaped.

6. A cartridge according to any preceding claim, wherein the diffuser comprises a plurality of fibres and preferably a plurality of voids.

7. A cartridge according to any preceding claim, wherein the diffuser comprises a mesh.

8. A cartridge according to any preceding claim, wherein a fluid path is established between the air inlet, the diffuser, the liquid storage portion and the fluid outlet.

9. A cartridge according to any preceding claim, wherein the one-way valve of the fluid outlet projects from the downstream end of the cartridge, and wherein the one-way valve of the air inlet projects from the upstream end of the cartridge.

10. A cartridge according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the one-way valve of the fluid outlet has a smaller diameter than the one-way valve of the air inlet.

11. A cartridge according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the diameter of the one-way valve of the fluid outlet is between 0.75 mm and 7 mm, preferably between 1 mm and 5 mm, most preferably between 1.5 mm and 3 mm.

12. A cartridge according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the one-way valve of the air inlet has a diameter of between 8 mm and 25 mm, preferably between 9 mm and 15 mm.

13. The cartridge according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the cartridge comprises a housing, and wherein the housing preferably comprises a transparent plastic or glass, preferably borosilicate glass.

14. The cartridge of claim 13, wherein the housing is at least partially opaque or transparent.

15. The cartridge of claim 14, wherein the opaque or transparent portion of the cartridge is UV resistant, wherein preferably the opaque or transparent portion of the cartridge comprises a UV resistant polymer or UV resistant coating.

16. A cartridge according to any preceding claim, wherein the downstream end of the cartridge comprises electrical connection means, and wherein the upstream end of the cartridge comprises electrical connection means.

17. A cartridge according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the liquid sensing medium comprises one or more of: flavoring agent, nicotine and water.

18. A kit comprising at least two cartridges according to any one of the preceding claims.

19. The kit of claim 18, wherein the kit comprises two or more serially connected cartridges.

20. The kit of any one of claims 18 or 19, wherein the liquid sensing medium of one cartridge is different from the liquid sensing medium of the other cartridge.

21. An aerosol-generating device comprising a cavity for receiving an aerosol-generating article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate, wherein the aerosol-generating device is configured to removably receive a cartridge according to any of claims 1 to 17 or a kit according to any of claims 18 to 20.

22. An aerosol-generating device according to claim 21, wherein the device is configured to removably receive two or more parallel-connected cartridges of a kit according to any of claims 18 to 20.

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