EA042098B1 - SMOKING SYSTEM HAVING A LIQUID STORAGE PART AND IMPROVED AIRFLOW CHARACTERISTICS - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a smoking system having a liquid storage portion.

WO 2007/078273 discloses an electric smoking system that uses a liquid as an aerosol-forming base. The liquid accumulates in a container formed from a porous material. The container communicates with the battery-powered evaporative heater through a series of small holes. When in use, the heater is activated through the user's mouth to turn on the battery pack. Additionally, suction at the mouthpiece by the user causes air to be drawn through the porous liquid container, over the vaporizer heater and into the mouthpiece and then into the user's mouth.

Prior art electrically heated smoking systems, including those mentioned above, have a number of advantages, but there is still room for improvement. Therefore, it is an object of the invention to provide an improved smoking system.

According to a first aspect of the invention, a smoking system is provided, comprising: a capillary wick for retaining liquid; at least one heater for heating the liquid, at least in part of the capillary wick, to form an aerosol; at least one air inlet, at least one air outlet, and a chamber between the air inlet and the air outlet, wherein the air inlet, the air outlet, and the chamber are arranged to form an air path flow from the air inlet to the air outlet through the capillary wick so as to transport the aerosol to the air outlet; and at least one guide for channeling the air flow in the air flow path so as to control the size of the particles in the aerosol.

In use, when the heater is activated, the liquid in at least one part of the capillary wick is vaporized by the heater to form a supersaturated vapor. The supersaturated vapor is mixed and carried in the air stream from at least one air inlet. As the flow progresses, the vapor condenses to form an aerosol in the chamber, and the aerosol is carried towards the air outlet into the user's mouth. In this detailed description, the upstream and downstream post-carrier positions are described with respect to the direction of the air flow as it is drawn from the air inlet to the air outlet.

The smoking system according to the invention provides a number of advantages.

Most significantly, the at least one guide improves airflow and aerosol flow through the smoking system. In particular, control of the airflow and aerosol flow through the smoking system by means of the guides allows either airflow control upstream of the capillary wick or airflow and aerosol flow control downstream of the capillary wick, or both. The inventors appreciate that the control of the air flow, in particular the direction of the air flow and the speed of the air flow, enables the control and preferential reduction of the particle size in the resulting aerosol compared to known devices. It improves smoking. In addition, the control of airflow and aerosol flow can reduce the amount of liquid condensation on the interior surfaces of the smoking system. Such condensation may leak out of the smoking system and cause discomfort to the user. Airflow and aerosol flow control can reduce such leakage. In addition, the control of airflow and aerosol flow can result in higher system efficiency and energy savings as a result.

The liquid has physical properties, such as a boiling point suitable for use in a smoking system: if the boiling point is too high, then said at least one heater cannot vaporize the liquid in the capillary wick, and if the boiling point is too low, the liquid can vaporize even without at least one activated heater. The liquid preferably contains a tobacco-containing material containing volatile tobacco flavor compounds that are released from the liquid upon heating. Alternatively, or in addition, the liquid may contain tobacco-free material. The liquid may include water, solvents, ethyl alcohol, herbal extracts, and natural or artificial flavors. Preferably, the liquid further comprises an aerosol former. Examples of suitable aerosol formers are glycerin and propylene glycol.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the smoking system further comprises a liquid storage portion. Preferably, the capillary wick is configured to be in contact with liquid in the liquid storage portion. In this case, in use, the liquid is transferred from the liquid storage part towards the heater by capillary action in the capillary wick. In one embodiment, the capillary wick has a first end and a second end, the first end extending into a liquid storage portion for contact with the liquid therein, and said at least one heater configured to heat the liquid at the second end. When the heater is activated, the liquid at the other end of the capillary wick

- 1 042098 is evaporated by means of a heater to form supersaturated steam.

This embodiment has the advantage that the liquid in the liquid storage part is protected from oxygen (because oxygen cannot generally enter the liquid storage part through a capillary wick) and, in some embodiments, from light, so that the risk fluid degradation is greatly reduced. Therefore, a high level of hygiene can be maintained. The use of a capillary wick between the liquid and the heater ensures the relative simplicity of the system structure. The fluid has physical properties, including viscosity, that allow the fluid to be transported through the capillary wick by capillary action.

The liquid storage part is preferably a container. Preferably, the liquid storage portion does not include porous materials such that there is only one capillary mechanism (capillary wick) in the smoking system. This keeps the structure of the smoking system simple and the whole system low maintenance. Preferably, the container is opaque, thereby limiting degradation of the liquid by exposure to light. The liquid storage part may not be refillable. Thus, when the liquid in the liquid storage part is used up, the smoking system is replaced. Alternatively, the liquid storage portion may be refillable. In this case, the smoking system can be replaced after a certain number of refills of the liquid storage part. Preferably, the liquid storage portion is configured to hold liquid for a predetermined number of puffs.

The capillary wick may have a fibrous or porous structure. For example, the capillary wick may contain a plurality of fibers or threads. The fibers or threads may generally be aligned in the longitudinal direction of the smoking system. Alternatively, the capillary wick may comprise a porous material in the form of a rod. The shape of the rod may extend in the longitudinal direction of the smoking system. The structure of the wick forms many small holes or tubes through which liquid can be transported to the heater by capillary action. The capillary wick may comprise any suitable material or combination of materials. Examples of suitable materials are ceramic or graphite materials in the form of fibers or sintered powders. The capillary wick may have any suitable capillarity and porosity so as to be used with various physical properties of the liquid such as density, viscosity, surface tension and vapor pressure. The capillary properties of the wick, combined with the properties of the liquid, ensure that the wick is always moist in the heating zone. If the wick is dry, overheating may occur, which may lead to thermal degradation of the liquid.

Preferably, the at least one guide channelizes the airflow by controlling the airflow velocity vector, in other words the airflow speed and airflow direction. This can be done by directing the airflow in a particular direction.

Alternatively, or additionally, this may be done by controlling the airflow rate. The airflow rate can be controlled by varying the cross-sectional area of the airflow path so as to take advantage of the Venturi effect. The airflow velocity through the narrowed section is increased to satisfy the continuity equation. Likewise, the airflow rate through the wider section is reduced.

Preferably, at least one guide is positioned such that the airflow velocity over the wick exceeds the airflow velocity downstream of the wick. This is preferably achieved by means of guides defining a narrowed cross-section of the air flow over the wick, which is to force the air flow to be accelerated.

Preferably, at least one guide is configured to control the size of the aerosol particles so that they have a diameter significantly less than 1.5 micrometers (µm). Even more preferably, at least one guide is configured to control the size of the aerosol particles so that they have a diameter significantly less than 1.0 microns.

In one embodiment, the smoking system further comprises a housing, and at least one guide for channeling the air flow is provided with an internal shape of the housing. In other words, the internal shape of the assembly itself channels the airflow. Preferably, the inner wall surface of the casing is shaped to form guides to channel the air flow. Guides provided by the internal shape of the casing may be provided upstream of the capillary wick. In this case, the guides channel the air flow from the air inlet towards the capillary wick. Alternatively, or additionally, guides provided by the internal shape of the casing may be provided downstream of the capillary wick. In this case, the guides channel the aerosol and air flow from the capillary wick towards the air outlet. In a preferred embodiment, the inner shape of the casing forms a tapering channel towards the air outlet.

- 2 042098

The internal shape of the casing may define linear flow upstream or downstream of the capillary wick. The internal shape of the casing may define a swirling, in other words rotating or helical, flow upstream or downstream of the capillary wick. The internal shape of the casing may define any turbulent flow upstream or downstream of the capillary wick.

The smoking system may further comprise a housing, and the internal shape of the housing may at least partially define the shape of the chamber. The size and shape of the chamber affects airflow and the flow of aerosol from the capillary wick towards the air outlet, which affects the aerosol formation process. This affects the particle size in the aerosol. For example, if the chamber is small, it encourages the aerosol particles to move rapidly towards the air outlet. On the other hand, if the chamber is larger, this may allow more time for the aerosol to form and flow towards the air outlet. The chamber may surround the capillary wick or may be located downstream of the capillary wick. The position of the chamber relative to the capillary wick also affects the size of the particles in the aerosol. This is because it affects how quickly the vapor condenses to form an aerosol.

In one embodiment, the smoking system comprises a casing, and the casing, downstream of the capillary wick, is internally formed to form an impactor (reflector or particle impactor) for trapping large aerosol particles. Large aerosol particles may be those aerosol particles that have a diameter greater than about 1.5 microns. Alternatively, the large aerosol particles may be those aerosol particles that have a diameter greater than about 1.0 microns. Alternatively, large aerosol particles may include aerosol particles having a different size. The large inertia of the large aerosol particles means that if the airflow path includes a sudden change in direction, the large aerosol particles may not be able to change direction fast enough to stay in the airflow path and may instead be captured by the impactor. The impactor is preferably positioned so that it takes advantage of the greater inertia of the larger aerosol particles.

The position of the impactor, for example, relative to the capillary wick and heater and relative to the chamber should influence the size and number of particles that are captured. If the smoking system includes an impactor, at least one guide may include an accelerating nozzle for directing the aerosol towards the impactor. The nozzle may define a decreasing cross-sectional area of the airflow path so as to accelerate the aerosol towards the impactor. Large aerosol particles are trapped on the impactor, while smaller aerosol particles can be deflected around the impactor in the flow path.

In one embodiment, the smoking system further comprises a casing, and at least one guide for channeling the air flow is provided by one or more removable inserts contained in the casing. One or more removable inserts may include a removable insert downstream of the capillary wick. In this case, the guides channel the air flow from the air inlet towards the capillary wick and the heater. Alternatively, or additionally, one or more removable inserts may include a removable insert downstream of the capillary wick. In this case, the guides channel the aerosol and air flow from the capillary wick and the heater towards the air outlet. One or more removable inserts can channel the airflow directly into the capillary wick and heater.

One or more removable inserts can channel airflow directly from the capillary wick and heater.

One or more removable inserts may provide linear flow upstream or downstream of the capillary wick and heater. One or more removable inserts may define a swirling, in other words rotating or helical, flow upstream or downstream of the capillary wick. One or more removable inserts may define any turbulent flow upstream or downstream of the capillary wick.

One or more removable inserts may at least partially define the shape of the chamber. Usually, this occurs in combination with the internal shape of the housing, but this is not necessarily the case. The size and shape of the chamber affects airflow and the flow of aerosol from the capillary wick and heater towards the air outlet. This affects the particle size in the aerosol. The chamber may surround the capillary wick and heater, or may be located downstream of the capillary wick and heater. The position of the chamber relative to the capillary wick and heater also affects the size of the particles in the aerosol.

In a preferred embodiment, the one or more removable inserts include a removable insert surrounding the capillary wick and heater. In this case, the preferably removable insert forms a flow path directly into the capillary wick and heater and directly away from the capillary wick and heater. In a first embodiment, the capillary wick is oblong and the removable insert directs airflow into the capillary wick in a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the capillary wick and directs airflow away from the capillary wick in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the capillary wick. wick. Preferably, the smoking system comprises an elongated casing, and the longitudinal axis of the capillary wick and the longitudinal axis of the casing are substantially parallel. In a second embodiment, the capillary wick is oblong and the removable insert directs airflow into the capillary wick in a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the capillary wick and directs airflow away from the capillary wick in a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the capillary wick. In this case, the air flow into the capillary wick may be substantially perpendicular to the air flow from the capillary wick. Alternatively, the airflow into the capillary wick may be in a direction substantially identical to the direction of airflow from the capillary wick. On the other hand, preferably the smoking system comprises an elongated casing, and the longitudinal axis of the capillary wick and the longitudinal axis of the casing are substantially parallel.

Preferably, at least one of the removable inserts contains holes for channeling air flow through it. Holes can be formed in the insert by machining or alternatively by injection molding.

In one embodiment, at least one of the removable inserts is located downstream of the capillary wick and contains an impactor to capture large aerosol particles. Large aerosol particles may be those aerosol particles that have a diameter greater than about 1.5 microns. Alternatively, the large aerosol particles may be those aerosol particles that have a diameter greater than about 1.0 microns. Alternatively, large aerosol particles may include aerosol particles having a different size. The large inertia of the large aerosol particles means that if the airflow path includes a sudden change in direction, the large aerosol particles may not be able to change direction fast enough to stay in the airflow path and instead may be captured by the impactor. The impactor is preferably positioned so that it takes advantage of the greater inertia of the larger aerosol particles.

For example, the removable insert may include a plate placed downstream of the capillary wick to capture large aerosol particles that come into contact with the plate. The plate may be placed substantially perpendicular to the airflow path. The position of the impactor, for example, relative to the capillary wick and heater and relative to the chamber should influence the size and number of particles that are captured.

If the smoking system includes an impactor, at least one guide may include an accelerating nozzle for directing the aerosol towards the impactor. The nozzle may define a decreasing cross-sectional area of the airflow path so as to accelerate the aerosol towards the impactor. Large aerosol particles are trapped on the impactor, while smaller aerosol particles can be deflected around the impactor in the flow path.

One or more removable inserts may include any liquid storage portion, a capillary wick, and a heater. If the removable insert comprises a liquid storage portion, a capillary wick and a heater, these portions of the smoking system may be removable from the housing as one component. This can be useful, for example, to refill or replace the liquid storage part.

The guides may be provided by additional components placed along the flow path. For example, the smoking system may further comprise pins, bars, perforated tubes, or any other component that may affect the flow path.

In one embodiment, the capillary wick is elongated and the guides are configured to channel air flow downstream of the capillary wick in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the capillary wick. In this embodiment, the smoking system may have an elongated shape, wherein the longitudinal axis of the capillary wick is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the smoking system.

In one embodiment, the capillary wick is elongated and the guides are configured to channel air flow downstream of the capillary wick in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the capillary wick. In this embodiment, the smoking system may have an elongated shape, wherein the longitudinal axis of the capillary wick is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the smoking system.

In one embodiment, the guides are designed to channel the air flow around the capillary wick in a spiral fashion. In this case, air can enter the spiral in a tangential direction. Air can exit the coil in a tangential direction. In this embodiment, the capillary wick may have an oblong shape, and the helix may have an axis that is essentially the longitudinal axis of the capillary wick. The smoking system may have an oblong shape, wherein the longitudinal axis of the capillary wick is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the smoking system.

In one embodiment, the capillary wick is elongated and the guides are configured to channel the air flow into the capillary wick in a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the capillary wick. In this embodiment, the smoking system may have an elongated shape, wherein the longitudinal axis of the capillary wick is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the smoking system.

Alternatively, the guides may be configured to channel the air flow into the capillary wick in a direction intermediate between the direction of the longitudinal axis of the capillary wick and a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the capillary wick. In other words, the guides can channel the air flow into the capillary wick at an oblique angle to the capillary wick, in other words, in a diagonal direction.

In one embodiment, the capillary wick is elongated and the guides are configured to channel airflow from the capillary wick in a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the capillary wick. In this embodiment, the smoking system may have an elongated shape, wherein the longitudinal axis of the capillary wick is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the smoking system.

In one embodiment, the capillary wick is elongated and the guides are configured to channel airflow from the capillary wick in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the capillary wick. In this embodiment, the smoking system may have an elongated shape, wherein the longitudinal axis of the capillary wick is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the smoking system.

Alternatively, the guides may be configured to channel the air flow from the capillary wick in a direction intermediate between the direction of the longitudinal axis of the capillary wick and a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the capillary wick. In other words, the guides can channel the air flow from the capillary wick at an oblique angle to the capillary wick, in other words, in a diagonal direction.

At least one heater may include one heating element. Alternatively, said at least one heater may comprise more than one heating element, such as two, three, four, five, six or more heating elements. The heating element or heating elements may be appropriately positioned to most effectively vaporize the liquid in the capillary wick.

At least one heater preferably comprises an electrical heating element. At least one heater preferably contains an electrically resistive material. Suitable electrically resistive materials include, but are not limited to: semiconductors such as doped ceramics, electrically conductive ceramics (such as, for example, molybdenum disilicide), carbon, graphite, metals, metal alloys, and composite materials made from ceramic material and metal material. Such composite materials may contain alloyed or unalloyed ceramics. Examples of suitable doped ceramics include doped silicon carbides. Examples of suitable metals include titanium, zirconium, tantalum and the platinum group metals. Examples of suitable metal alloys include stainless steel, constantan, nickel, cobalt, chromium, aluminum, titanium, zirconium, hafnium, niobium, molybdenum, tantalum, tungsten, tin, gallium, manganese and iron alloys and superalloys based on nickel, iron, cobalt, stainless steel, Timetal®, as well as ferromanganese-aluminum alloys. Timetal® is a registered trademark of Titanium Metals Corporation, 1999 Broadway Suite 4300, Denver, Colorado. In composite materials, the electrically resistive material may optionally be embedded, encapsulated, or coated with an insulating material, or vice versa, depending on the energy transfer kinetics and the desired external physicochemical properties.

The at least one heater may take any suitable shape. For example, said at least one heater may take the form of a heating blade. Alternatively, said at least one heater may take the form of a housing or substrate having various electrically conductive portions or an electrically resistive metal tube. Alternatively, said at least one heater may be a disk (end) heater or a combination of a disk heater with heating needles or rams. Alternatively, said at least one heater may take the form of an etched metal foil insulated between two layers of inert material. In this case, the inert material may comprise Kapton, all-polyimide or mica foil. Alternatively, said at least one heater may take the form of a sheet of material that may be rolled around at least a portion of the capillary wick. Alternatively, said at least one heater may take the form of an etched foil folded around at least a portion of the capillary wick. The etched foil may comprise a metal sheet cut by a laser or an electrochemical process. The sheet can be made from any suitable material such as iron-aluminum alloy, iron-manganese-aluminum

- 5 042098 alloy or Timetal®. The sheet may be rectangular in shape, or may be patterned, which may form a coil-like structure when rolled around a capillary wick.

Other alternatives include heating wire or strand such as Ni-Cr, platinum, tungsten or alloy wire.

In a preferred embodiment, said at least one heater comprises a coil of wire at least partially surrounding the capillary wick. In this embodiment, preferably the wire is a metal wire. Even more preferably, the wire is a metal alloy wire. The coil may run wholly or partially along the capillary wick. The coil may run wholly or partially around the circumference of the capillary wick. In a preferred embodiment, the coil is not in contact with the capillary wick. This allows the heating coil to heat the capillary wick, but reduces losses by avoiding evaporation of more liquid than required. It also reduces the amount of liquid that condenses on the inner walls, thereby reducing cleaning requirements.

The at least one heater may heat the liquid in the capillary wick by conduction. The heater may be at least partially in contact with the wick. Alternatively, heat from the heater may be conducted to the liquid via a heat transfer element. Alternatively, said at least one heater may transfer heat to incoming ambient air that is drawn through the smoking system during use, which in turn heats the liquid by convection. Ambient air may be heated before passing through the system. Alternatively, ambient air may first be drawn through the wick and then heated.

In one embodiment, the smoking system is an electrically heated smoking system. In this embodiment, the smoking system may further comprise a power supply. Preferably, the power supply includes an element contained in the casing. The power source may be a lithium ion battery or one of its varieties, such as a lithium ion polymer battery. Alternatively, the power source may be a nickel metal hydride battery, a nickel cadmium battery, a lithium manganese battery, a cobalt lithium battery, or a fuel cell. In this case, preferably, the electrically heated smoking system is usable by the smoker until the energy in the battery is used up. Alternatively, the power supply may comprise a circuit charged by an external charging portion. In this case, preferably, the circuit during charging provides power for a predetermined number of puffs, after which the circuit must be reconnected to the external charging part. An example of a suitable circuit is one or more capacitors or rechargeable batteries.

If the smoking system is an electrically heated smoking system, the smoking system may further comprise an electrical circuit. In one embodiment, the circuitry includes a sensor to detect airflow indicative that the user is taking a puff. The sensor may be an electromechanical device. Alternatively, the sensor may be any of the following: a mechanical device, an optical device, an optomechanical device, a microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) sensor, and an acoustic sensor. In this case, preferably, the circuitry is configured to provide an electrical current pulse to at least one heater when the sensor senses that the user is taking a puff. Preferably, the time period of the electric current pulse is preset depending on the volume of liquid to be vaporized. The circuitry is preferably programmable for this purpose.

Alternatively, the circuitry may comprise a manually operated switch for user initiation of the puff. The time period of the electric current pulse is preferably pre-set depending on the volume of liquid to be vaporized. The circuitry is preferably programmable for this purpose.

In one embodiment, at least one air inlet includes two air inlets. Alternatively, there may be three, four, five or more air inlets. Preferably, if there is more than one air inlet, the air inlets are spaced apart around the casing. In a preferred embodiment, the circuitry includes a sensor to detect airflow indicating that the user is taking a puff, and at least one air inlet downstream of the sensor.

Preferably, the smoking system further comprises a puff indicator to indicate when said at least one heater is activated. In an embodiment in which the circuitry includes a sensor to detect airflow indicating that the user is taking a puff, the indicator may be activated when the sensor reads airflow indicating that the user is taking a puff. In an embodiment in which the electrical circuit contains a manually operated switch, the indicator may be activated by means of the switch.

The electrically heated smoking system may further comprise an atomizer including at least one heater. In addition to the heating element, the atomizer may include one or more electromechanical elements such as piezoelectric elements. Additionally or alternatively, the atomizer may also include elements that utilize electrostatic, electromagnetic, or pneumatic effects.

Preferably, the smoking system comprises a housing. The casing may include a shell and a mouthpiece. In this case, all components can be contained either in the shell or in the mouthpiece. In the case of an electrically heated smoking system, preferably the power supply and circuitry are contained within the enclosure. Preferably, a liquid storage portion, a capillary wick, at least one heater, and an air outlet are contained in the mouthpiece. At least one air inlet may be provided in either the shell or the mouthpiece. The guides may be provided in either the sheath or the mouthpiece, or both the sheath and the mouthpiece. Preferably, the mouthpiece is replaceable. The presence of a shell and a separate mouthpiece provides a number of advantages. First, if the replacement mouthpiece contains at least one heater, a liquid storage portion, and a wick, all elements that are potentially in contact with the liquid are changed when the mouthpiece is replaced. Cross-contamination does not occur in the shell between different mouthpieces, such as mouthpieces using different liquids. In addition, if the mouthpiece is replaced at the proper intervals, there is very little chance of clogging the heater with liquid. Preferably, the shell and mouthpiece are releasably lockable together when engaged.

The casing may comprise any suitable material or combination of materials. Examples of suitable materials include metals, alloys, plastics, or composites containing one or more of these materials, or thermoplastics that are suitable for food or pharmaceutical applications, such as polypropylene, polyetheretherketone (PEEK), and polyethylene. Preferably, the material is lightweight and non-brittle.

Preferably, the smoking system is portable. The smoking system may be of a size comparable to a traditional cigar or cigarette.

According to a second aspect of the invention, there is provided a smoking system comprising a capillary wick to retain liquid; at least one air inlet, at least one air outlet, and a chamber between the air inlet and the air outlet, wherein the air inlet, the air outlet, and the chamber are arranged to form an air path flow from the air inlet to the air outlet through the capillary wick so as to convey an aerosol formed from the liquid to the air outlet; and at least one guide for channeling the air flow in the air flow path so as to control the size of the particles in the aerosol.

In this case, the smoking system may include an atomizer to create an aerosol. The nebulizer may include one or more electromechanical elements such as piezoelectric elements. Additionally or alternatively, the atomizer may also include elements that utilize electrostatic, electromagnetic, or pneumatic effects.

Features described with respect to one aspect of the invention may also be applicable to another aspect of the invention.

The invention is further described, by way of example only, with reference to the corresponding figures, in which:

fig. 1 shows one example of a smoking system having a liquid storage portion;

fig. 2a, 2b and 2c show a first embodiment of a smoking system according to the invention;

fig. 3a and 3b show a second embodiment of the smoking system according to the invention;

fig. 4a and 4b show a third embodiment of the smoking system according to the invention;

fig. 5 shows a fourth embodiment of a smoking system according to the invention;

fig. 6a and 6b show a fifth embodiment of the smoking system according to the invention;

fig. 7a, 7b, 7c, 7d and 7e show a sixth embodiment of a smoking system according to the invention;

fig. 8a, 8b and 8c show a seventh embodiment of a smoking system according to the invention;

fig. 9a, 9b and 9c show an eighth embodiment of the smoking system according to the invention;

fig. 10a, 10b, 10c and 10d show a ninth embodiment of a smoking system according to the invention;

fig. 11a, 11b, 11c and 11d show a tenth embodiment of the smoking system according to the invention; and fig. 12a-12l show an eleventh embodiment of a smoking system according to the invention.

Fig. 1 shows one example of a smoking system having a liquid storage portion. The smoking system 100 of FIG. 1 is an electrically heated smoking system and contains a casing

- 7 042098

101 having a mouthpiece end 103 and a body end 105. At the end of the case, a power supply in the form of a battery 107 and an electrical circuit in the form of a circuit 109 and a puff detection system 111 are provided. At the end of the mouthpiece, a liquid storage portion is provided in the form of a cartridge 113 containing liquid 115, a capillary wick 117 and a heater coil 119. The heating coil is connected to the electrical circuit via connections 121. The housing 101 also includes an air inlet 123, an air outlet 125 at the end of the mouthpiece, and a chamber in the form of an aerosol-forming chamber 127.

When used, the work is as follows. Liquid 115 is transferred by capillary action from the cartridge 113 from the end of the wick 117 that goes into the cartridge to the other end of the wick 117 that is surrounded by the heating coil. When the user inhales the device at the air outlet 125, ambient air is drawn in through the air inlet 123. In the arrangement in FIG. 1, the puff detection system 111 senses the puff and activates the heating coil 119. The battery 107 supplies a pulse of energy to the heating coil 119 to heat the end of the wick 117 surrounded by the heating coil. The liquid at this end of the wick 117 is vaporized by the heating coil 119 to create supersaturated vapor. Simultaneously, the evaporated liquid is replaced by additional liquid passing through the wick 117 through capillary action. (This is sometimes referred to as the atomizing action.) The supersaturated vapor created is mixed and carried in the air stream from the air inlet 123. In the aerosol generating chamber 127, the vapor is condensed to form an inhalable aerosol which is carried towards the outlet 125 and into the user's mouth.

In FIG. 1 is an embodiment, the circuit 109 and the puff detection system 111 are preferably programmable. The circuit 109 and the puff detection system 111 can be used to control the operation of the device. This, together with the physical implementation of an electrically heated smoking system, may aid in the control of particle size in the aerosol.

The capillary wick can be made from a variety of porous or capillary materials and preferably has a known predetermined capillarity. Examples include ceramic or graphite materials in the form of fibers or sintered powders. Wicks of various porosities can be used to accommodate various physical properties of the liquid such as density, viscosity, surface tension and vapor pressure. The wick must be suitable so that the required volume of liquid can be delivered to the heating coil.

Fig. 1 shows one example of a smoking system that can be used with the present invention. However, many other examples may apply to the invention. For example, a smoking system need not be electrically powered. For example, additional air inlets may be provided, for example, spaced circumferentially around the casing. For example, a puff detection system need not be provided. Instead, the system may be operated through a manual operation, for example, through user control of a switch when a puff is being made. For example, the casing may include a separable shell and a mouthpiece. For example, the overall shape and size of the housing may vary. For example, the liquid cartridge may be omitted and the capillary wick may simply be preloaded with liquid prior to use. Other options are, of course, also possible.

The following describes a number of embodiments of the invention based on the example shown in FIG. 1. The components shown in FIG. 1 are omitted to simplify the drawings. In addition, the tightening detection system 111 and connections 121 are not shown, also for simplicity. It should be noted that FIG. 1 and following FIGS. 2a-11 are schematic views in nature. In particular, the components shown are not drawn to scale individually or relative to one another.

Fig. 2a, 2b and 2c show a first embodiment of a smoking system according to the invention. Fig. 2a shows a cross-sectional view of the end of the mouthpiece of the first embodiment of the smoking system 200. FIG. 2a, the smoking system 200 includes guides for channeling the airflow within the smoking system. In this embodiment, guides are provided in the removable insert 201 and on the inner walls 203 of the casing. The air flow is shown by dotted arrows.

The removable insert 201 extends across the entire cross section of the smoking system 200 and includes airflow channels 205 between the air inlet and the capillary wick and heating coil. In this embodiment, the liquid cartridge, capillary wick and heating coil are part of the removable insert 201, although this need not be the case. The channels 205 taper inwards to direct the airflow generally in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the casing, but diagonally in the direction of the capillary wick and heating coil.

In addition, the inner walls 203 of the case are shaped so as to form a generatrix

- 8 042098 aerosol chamber 202 and provide guides for channeling the air flow and aerosol flow between the capillary wick and the heating coil and the air outlet through the aerosol generating chamber 202. In this embodiment, the inner walls 203 of the casing have a tapering shape in the direction of the air outlet and thereby direct the air flow and the flow of the aerosol essentially in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the casing.

Fig. 2b and 2c are cross sections along line A-A in FIG. 2a. Fig. 2b and 2c show two alternative arrangements with respect to the channels 205 in the removable insert 201. Although the cross section of the device is shown as circular in FIG. 2a, 2b and 2c, it need not be implemented in this way. In FIG. 2b, the inlet of each channel is circumferentially aligned with the outlet of the channel. In FIG. 2c, the channels 205 are twisted about the axis of the casing. In other words, the inlet of each channel is displaced circumferentially relative to the outlet of the channel. Preferably, the insert 201 includes a locating pin or protrusion (not shown) on the outer surface to engage with a slot (also not shown) on the inside of the casing walls to ensure that the insert is properly positioned within the smoking system. This can be important, for example, for electrical connections to the heating coil.

The embodiment shown in FIG. 2a, 2b and 2c provides a substantially axially directed incoming airflow from the air inlet to the capillary wick and heating coil and a substantially axially directed outgoing airflow from the capillary wick and heating coil to the air outlet. It has been found that such airflow control improves the aerosol generation process within the smoking system. Airflow control can also reduce condensation, and therefore leakage. The guides provided by the insert 201 channel the airflow so as to concentrate the airflow into the wick and heating element and so as to increase turbulence. This reduces the particle size of the aerosol inhaled by the user. The guides provided by the inner walls 203 of the casing reduce the volume of the aerosol generating chamber 202 in the smoking system and therefore improve the flow of the aerosol towards the air outlet. It improves smoking. The arrangement according to Fig. 2c stimulates swirling airflow to further improve aerosol production.

A number of changes are possible in the smoking system of FIG. 2a, 2b and 2c. First, more than one air inlet may be provided. The guides upstream of the capillary wick and heating coil may be provided as one or more removable pieces (inserts 201 as shown), or alternatively, as an integral part of the casing, or as a combination of both. Likewise, the downstream guides after the capillary wick and heating coil may be formed as one or more removable portions, or alternatively, as an integral part of the casing (inner walls of the 203-molded casing, as shown), or a combination of the two. Any number of channels 205 may be provided in the insert 201. The channels may be evenly or unevenly distributed around the circumference around the insert. Channels can be placed as several rows forming circles of different diameters. The channels may have a constant shape and cross-sectional area along their length, or the cross-sectional shape may vary along their length. The channels may include some channels having different shapes and cross-sectional areas from others. Channels can be formed in the insert by machining. Alternatively, the insert can be made together with the channels by injection molding. The channels may be formed at any suitable angle to the longitudinal axis of the housing. The inner walls 203 of the case may be shaped appropriately for the desired volume and shape of the aerosol generating chamber 202 within the smoking system.

Fig. 3a and 3b show a second embodiment of the smoking system according to the invention. Fig. 3a shows a cross-sectional view of the end of the mouthpiece of the second embodiment of the smoking system 250. FIG. 3a, the smoking system 250 includes guides for channeling the airflow within the smoking system. In this embodiment, guides are provided in the removable insert 251 and on the inner walls 253 of the casing. The air flow is shown by dotted arrows.

The removable insert 251 extends across the entire cross section of the smoking system 250 and includes main channels 255 and additional channels 257 to channel the air flow between the air inlet and the capillary wick and heating coil. In this embodiment, channels 255, 257 are essentially tubular openings in insert 251. In this embodiment, the liquid cartridge, capillary wick, and heating coil are part of the removable insert 251, although this need not be the case. Similar to channels 205 shown in FIG. 2a, 2b and 2c, main channels 255 in FIG. 3a and 3b taper inwards to generally direct the airflow in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the casing, but diagonally in the direction of the capillary wick and heating coil. In FIG. 3a and 3b, additional channels 257 run generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the casing. Additional channels 257 are closer to the outer part of the smoking system. This creates a secondary air flow that actually bypasses the wick. This secondary airflow therefore carries fewer aerosol droplets than airflow that is closer to the wick. This secondary, relatively dry, air flow close to the inner walls can reduce the amount of condensation on the inner walls. This helps to reduce leakage.

In addition, the inner walls 253 of the casing are shaped to define an aerosol generating chamber 252 and provide guides for channeling the air flow and aerosol flow between the capillary wick and the heating coil and the air outlet through the aerosol generating chamber 252. In this embodiment, the inner walls The 253 shrouds are tapered in the direction of the air outlet and thereby direct the airflow and the aerosol flow substantially in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the shroud.

Fig. 3b is a cross section along the line A-A of FIG. 3a. Although the cross section of the device is shown as circular in FIG. 3a and 3b, it need not be implemented in this way. Referring to FIG. 3b, insert 251 contains main channels 255 and additional channels 257. In FIG. 3b, the inlet of each main channel 255 is circumferentially aligned with the outlet of the channel, similar to FIG. 2a. However, the main channels 255 can be twisted around the axis of the housing, similar to FIG. 2b. In FIG. 3b additional channels 257 run in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the casing. However, one or more additional channels 257 may be located at an angle to the longitudinal axis of the casing. The additional channels 257 are closer to the casing than the main channels 255. Thus, the airflow through the additional channels 257 is in a direction outside the airflow through the main channels 255. In FIG. 3b, the inlet of each additional channel 257 is circumferentially aligned with the outlet of the channel. However, the additional channels 257 may alternatively be twisted around the casing axis. Preferably, the insert 251 includes a locating pin or protrusion (not shown) on the outer surface to engage with a slot (also not shown) on the inside of the casing walls to ensure that the insert is correctly positioned within the smoking system. This can be important, for example, for electrical connections to the heating coil.

The embodiment shown in FIG. 3a and 3b provides a substantially axially directed incoming airflow from the air inlet to the capillary wick and heating coil and a substantially axially directed outgoing airflow from the capillary wick and heating coil to the air outlet. In addition, the embodiment shown in FIG. 3a and 3b provides additional substantially axially directed incoming airflow from the air inlet into the capillary wick and heating coil and additional substantially axially directed outgoing airflow from the capillary wick and heating coil into the air outlet. Additional air flow goes in the direction outside the smoking system. Because the extra airflow is less close to the heating coil, it tends to carry less aerosol. Thus, it may contribute to improved aerosol performance and reduced condensation. It has been found that such airflow control improves the aerosol generation process within the smoking system. The guides provided by the insert 251 channel the airflow so as to concentrate the airflow into the wick and heating element and so as to increase turbulence. This reduces the particle size of the aerosol inhaled by the user. They also provide additional airflow which can reduce the formation of condensation in the smoking system. The guides provided by the inner walls 253 of the casing reduce the volume of the aerosol generating chamber 252 in the smoking system and therefore improve the flow of the aerosol towards the air outlet. It improves smoking.

A number of changes are possible in the smoking system of FIG. 3a and 3b. First, more than one air inlet may be provided. The guides upstream of the capillary wick and heating coil may be one or more removable pieces (inserts 251 as shown), or alternatively, an integral part of the casing, or a combination of the two. Likewise, the downstream guides after the capillary wick and heating coil may be one or more removable parts, or alternatively, an integral part of the casing (inner walls of the 253-molded casing, as shown), or a combination of the two. Any number of channels 255, 257 may be provided in the insert 201. The channels may be evenly or unevenly distributed around the circumference of the insert. Channels can be placed as several rows forming circles of different diameters. The channels may have a constant shape and cross-sectional area along their length, or the cross-sectional shape may vary along their length. The channels may include some channels having different shapes and cross-sectional areas from others. The channels can be machined into the insert. Alternatively, the insert can be made together with the channels by injection molding. The channels may be formed at any suitable angle to the longitudinal axis of the housing. The inner walls 253 of the casing may be shaped appropriately for the desired volume and shape of the aerosol generating chamber 252 in

- 10 042098 within the smoking system.

Fig. 4a and 4b show a third embodiment of the smoking system according to the invention. Fig. 4a shows a cross-sectional view of the end of the mouthpiece of the second embodiment of the smoking system 300. FIG. 4a, the smoking system 300 includes guides for channeling the airflow within the smoking system. In this embodiment, guides are provided in the removable insert 301 and on the inner walls 303 of the casing. The air flow is shown by dotted arrows.

In the same way as the removable insert 201 in FIG. 2a, 2b and 2c, the removable insert 301 extends over the entire cross section of the smoking system. However, in this embodiment, it also extends further downstream of the insert 201. The removable insert 301 includes airflow channels 305 between the air inlet and the capillary wick and heating coil. The channels 305 extend in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the casing at the inlet end, then taper inwards at the outlet end. Channels 305 generally direct the airflow initially in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the casing, then diagonally in the direction of the capillary wick and heating coil. In this embodiment, the liquid cartridge, capillary wick, and heating coil are all part of the removable insert 301, although this need not be the case.

In addition, the inner walls 303 of the housing are shaped to form an aerosol generating chamber 302 and provide guides for channeling the air flow and aerosol flow between the capillary wick and the heating coil and the air outlet through the aerosol generating chamber 302. In this embodiment, the inner walls 303 of the shrouds are tapered in the direction of the air outlet and thereby direct the air and aerosol flow substantially in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the shroud.

Fig. 4b is a cross section along line B-B of FIG. 4a. Although the cross section of the device is shown as circular in FIG. 4a and 4b, it need not be implemented in this way. Referring to FIG. 4b, the insert 301 includes channels 305. Around the circumference of the insert 301, a plurality of contact zones 307 are provided for contact with the interior of the housing. In other words, the channels are formed by assembling the insert in the casing. Preferably, the insert 301 includes a locating pin or protrusion (not shown) on the outer surface to engage with a slot (also not shown) on the inside of the casing walls to ensure that the insert is correctly positioned within the smoking system. This can be important, for example, for electrical connections to the heating coil.

The embodiment shown in FIG. 4a and 4b provides a substantially axially directed incoming airflow from the air inlet to the capillary wick and heating coil and a substantially axially directed outgoing airflow from the capillary wick and heating coil to the air outlet. It has been found that such airflow control improves the aerosol generation process within the smoking system. Airflow control can also reduce condensation, and therefore leakage. The guides provided by the insert 301 channel the airflow so as to concentrate the airflow into the wick and heating element and so as to increase turbulence. This reduces the particle size of the aerosol inhaled by the user. The guides provided by the inner walls 303 of the housing reduce the volume of the aerosol generating chamber 302 in the smoking system and therefore improve the flow of the aerosol towards the air outlet. It improves smoking.

A number of changes are possible in the smoking system of FIG. 4a and 4b. First, more than one air inlet may be provided. The guides downstream of the capillary wick and heating coil may be one or more removable pieces (inserts 301 as shown), or alternatively, an integral part of the assembly, or a combination of the two. Likewise, the downstream guides after the capillary wick and heating coil may be one or more removable parts, or alternatively, an integral part of the assembly (the inner walls of the 303-molded casing, as shown), or a combination of the two. Any number of channels 305 may be provided in the insert 301. The channels may be evenly or unevenly distributed around the circumference around the insert. Channels can be placed as several rows forming circles of different diameters. The channels may have a constant shape and cross-sectional area along their length, or the cross-sectional shape may vary along their length. The channels may include some channels having different shapes and cross-sectional areas from others. The channels can be machined into the insert. Alternatively, the insert may be molded along with the channels by injection molding. The channels may be formed at any suitable angle to the longitudinal axis of the housing. Similarly to FIG. 2c, the channels can be twisted about the axis of the housing in order to stimulate swirling airflow. The inner walls 303 of the casing may be shaped appropriately for the desired volume and shape of the aerosol generating chamber 302 within the smoking system.

- 11 042098

Fig. 5 shows a fourth embodiment of a smoking system according to the invention. Fig. 5 shows a cross-sectional view of the end of the mouthpiece according to the third embodiment of the smoking system 400. FIG. 5, the smoking system 400 includes guides for channeling the air flow within the smoking system. In this embodiment, the guides are provided by a removable insert 401, by the inner walls 403 of the casing, and by an impactor 405. The airflow is shown by dashed arrows.

The removable insert 401 is similar to the removable insert 301 shown in FIG. 4a and 4b, and extends across the entire cross section of the smoking system 400. The removable insert 401 includes channels 407 to channel the air flow between the air inlet and the capillary wick and heating coil. The channels 407 extend in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the casing at the inlet end, then taper inwards at the outlet end. Channels 407 generally direct the airflow initially in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the casing, then diagonally in the direction of the capillary wick and heating coil. In this embodiment, the liquid cartridge, capillary wick, and heating coil are all part of the removable insert 401, although this need not be the case. Preferably, the insert 401 includes a locating pin or protrusion (not shown) on the outer surface to engage with a slot (also not shown) on the inside of the case walls to ensure that the insert is properly positioned within the smoking system. This can be important, for example, for electrical connections to the heating coil. The insert may alternatively take the form shown in FIG. 2a, or other suitable form.

In addition, the inner walls 403 of the casing and the impactor 405 provide guides for ducting the air and aerosol flow between the capillary wick and the heating coil and the air outlet. The inner walls 403 of the case and the impactor 405 also form an aerosol forming chamber 402. In this embodiment, the inner walls of the case are shaped to direct the flow away from the heating coil in a radial direction, in other words substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the case. The impactor 405 contains a removable insert that can be placed in the center of the device supported by the walls of the casing (see dotted lines). The impactor 405 makes it possible to capture large aerosol particles on the inlet side. This creates a filtration effect and reduces the average particle size. This is shown schematically in FIG. 5. Then, the inner walls 403 of the casing and the impactor 405 direct the airflow towards the air outlet.

The embodiment shown in FIG. 5 provides a substantially axially directed incoming airflow from the air inlet to the capillary wick and heating coil and a substantially radially directed airflow downstream of the capillary wick and heating coil. It has been found that such airflow control improves the process of aerosol formation within the smoking system. Airflow control can also reduce condensation, and therefore leakage. The guides provided by the insert 401 channel the airflow so as to concentrate the airflow into the wick and heating element and so as to increase turbulence. This reduces the particle size of the aerosol inhaled by the user. The guides provided by the inner walls 403 of the shroud and impactor enable large aerosol particles to be trapped and prevented from escaping through the air outlet. The arrangement allows cool, unsaturated air to be fed into the capillary wick and heating coil to reduce the size of the aerosol particles. It improves smoking.

A number of changes are possible in the smoking system of FIG. 5. First, although the cross section of the device is shown as circular in FIG. 5, it does not have to be implemented in this way. Second, more than one air inlet may be provided. The guides upstream of the capillary wick and heating coil may be one or more removable pieces (inserts 401 as shown), or alternatively, an integral part of the casing, or a combination of the two. Likewise, the downstream guides after the capillary wick and heating coil may be provided as one or more removable parts, or alternatively, as an integral part of the casing, or as a combination of the two (inner walls 403 of the molded casing combined with a removable impactor 405, as shown ). Any number of channels 407 may be provided in insert 401. The channels may be evenly or unevenly distributed around the circumference around the insert. Channels can be placed as several rows forming circles of different diameters. The channels may have a constant shape and cross-sectional area along their length, or the cross-sectional shape may vary along their length. The channels may include some channels having different shapes and cross-sectional areas from others. The channels can be machined into the insert. Alternatively, the insert may be formed with channels by injection molding. The channels may be formed at any suitable angle to the longitudinal axis of the casing. Similarly to FIG. 2c, the channels can be twisted about the axis of the casing in order to stimulate swirling airflow. Inner walls 403 casing

- 12 042098 and the impactor 405 may be of the proper shape and dimensions for the required volume and shape of the aerosol-generating chamber 402 within the smoking system. The impactor 405 may be formed into any suitable shape and is preferably designed with the molded housing inner walls 403 so as to channel the airflow and aerosol flow in the desired manner.

Fig. 6a and 6b show a fifth embodiment of the smoking system according to the invention. Fig. 6a shows a cross-sectional view of the end of the mouthpiece of the fourth embodiment of the smoking system 500. FIG. 6a, the smoking system 500 includes guides for channeling the airflow within the smoking system. In this embodiment, the guides are provided by the removable insert 501, by the inner walls 503 of the casing, and by the impactor 505.

The removable insert 501 is similar to the removable insert 201 shown in FIG. 2a, 2b and 2c and extends across the entire cross section of the smoking system 500 and includes airflow channels 507 between the air inlet and the capillary wick and heating coil. In this embodiment, the liquid cartridge, capillary wick, and heating coil are all part of the removable insert 501, although this need not be the case. The channels 507 taper inwardly to direct the airflow generally in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the casing, but diagonally in the direction of the capillary wick and heating coil. Preferably, the insert 501 includes a locating pin or protrusion (not shown) on the outer surface to engage with a slot (also not shown) on the inside of the casing walls to ensure that the insert is correctly positioned within the smoking system. This can be important, for example, for electrical connections to the heating coil. The insert may alternatively take the form shown in FIG. 4a and 5, or other suitable form.

In addition, the inner walls 503 of the casing taper inwards to form an aerosol-forming chamber 502. The inner walls 503 of the casing, together with the impactor 505, provide guides for channeling the airflow and aerosol flow between the capillary wick and the heating coil and the air outlet. In this embodiment, the inner walls 503 of the casing are shaped to form a nozzle to direct and accelerate the airflow in a substantially axial direction.

The impactor 505 is directly downstream of the aerosol generating chamber. Fig. 6b is a cross section along the line C-C of FIG. 6a. The impactor 505 operates to capture large aerosol particles and hence provide a filtering effect. The impactor 505 includes a plate 505a, which can be placed in the center of the casing, supported on the walls of the casing by struts 505b. The plate 505a is operable to capture large aerosol particles exiting the aerosol generating chamber 502.

The embodiment shown in FIG. 6a and 6b provides accelerated, substantially axially directed airflow downstream of the capillary wick and heating coil. It has been found that such airflow control improves the process of aerosol formation within the smoking system. Airflow control can also reduce condensation, and therefore leakage. The guides provided by the insert 501 channel the airflow so as to concentrate the airflow into the wick and heating element and so as to increase turbulence. This reduces the particle size of the aerosol inhaled by the user. The converging nozzle shape provided by the inner walls 503 of the shroud accelerates the aerosol further downstream to the impactor 505, and the plate 505a of the impactor 505 captures large aerosol particles to prevent them from escaping through the air outlet. The arrangement allows cool, unsaturated air to be fed into the capillary wick and heating coil to reduce the size of the aerosol particles. It also allows any large aerosol particles that are actually formed to be filtered out of the stream. It improves smoking.

A number of changes are possible in the smoking system of FIG. 6a and 6b. First, although the cross section of the device is shown as circular in FIG. 6a and 6b, it need not be implemented in this way. Second, more than one air inlet may be provided. The guides upstream of the capillary wick and heating coil may be one or more removable pieces (inserts 501 as shown), or alternatively, an integral part of the casing, or a combination of the two. Likewise, the guides downstream of the capillary wick and heating coil may be provided as one or more removable parts, or alternatively as an integral part of the casing, or as a combination of the two (molded casing inner walls 503 combined with a removable impactor 505 as shown). ). Any number of channels 507 may be provided in the insert 501. The channels may be evenly or unevenly distributed around the circumference around the insert. Channels can be placed as several rows forming circles of different diameters. The channels may have a constant shape and cross-sectional area along their length, or the cross-sectional shape may vary along their length. The channels may include some channels having different shapes and cross-sectional areas from others.

- 13 042098

Channels 507 can be twisted about the axis of the housing to provide swirling airflow.

The channels can be machined into the insert. Alternatively, the insert may be molded along with the channels by injection molding. The channels may be formed at any suitable angle to the longitudinal axis of the casing.

The inner walls 503 of the casing may be shaped appropriately for the desired volume and shape of the aerosol generating chamber 502 within the smoking system and for the desired acceleration of the aerosol towards the impactor 505. The impactor may be formed by machining or injection molding. The shape and size of the impactor plate 505a may vary. The distance between the outlet end of the aerosol generating chamber 502 and the impactor plate can vary.

Fig. 7a-7e show a sixth embodiment of the smoking system according to the invention. Fig. 7a7e show a cross-sectional view of the end of the mouthpiece according to the fifth embodiment of the smoking system. On each of the FIGS. 7a-7e, the smoking system includes guides for channeling airflow within the smoking system. The air flow is shown by dotted arrows.

Fig. 7a shows a first arrangement of a smoking system 600. FIG. 7a, the guides are provided by a removable insert 601 and by the inner walls 603 of the casing. The removable insert 601 extends only through the center of the smoking system 600, thereby directing the airflow between the air inlet and the capillary wick and heating coil to the outer circumference of the device. The removable insert 601 is shaped such that in the capillary wick and heating coil, the airflow is directed into the capillary wick and heating coil in a substantially radial direction, in other words substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the casing. In FIG. 7a-7e, the liquid cartridge, capillary wick, and heating coil are part of the removable insert 601, although this need not be the case.

In addition, the inner walls 603 of the casing and the impactor 405 provide guides for ducting the air and aerosol flow between the capillary wick and the heating coil and the air outlet. The inner walls 603 of the case also define the aerosol forming chamber 602. In this embodiment, the inner walls 603 of the case are shaped to direct airflow and aerosol flow substantially in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the case.

Fig. 7b shows a second arrangement of the smoking system 600'. The arrangement shown in Fig. 7b is identical to the arrangement shown in FIG. 7a, except that the additional insert 605 is provided in the smoking system 600' of FIG. 7b. Optional insert 605 provides additional airflow guides. Insert 605 is a ribbed insert surrounding the capillary wick and heating coil. It is shaped to direct the airflow into the capillary wick and heating coil in a substantially radial direction, in other words substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the casing.

Fig. 7c shows a third arrangement of the smoking system 600. The arrangement shown in FIG. 7c is identical to the arrangement shown in FIG. 7a, except that the additional insert 607 is provided in the smoking system 600 of FIG. 7s. An additional insert 607 provides additional airflow guides. Insert 607 is a lattice insert containing a tube having a series of longitudinally spaced holes. Insert 607 surrounds the capillary wick and heating coil and directs airflow through the grille holes and into the capillary wick and heating coil in a substantially radial direction, in other words substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the housing.

Fig. 7d shows a fourth arrangement of the smoking system 600'. The arrangement shown in Fig. 7d is identical to the arrangement shown in FIG. 7a, except that the additional insert 609 is provided in the smoking system 600' of FIG. 7d. Additional insert 609 provides additional airflow guides. Insert 609 is a grooved insert containing a solid cylindrical tube having a number of channels formed in the radial direction. Insert 609 surrounds the capillary wick and heating coil and directs air flow through the radial channels and into the capillary wick and heating coil in a substantially radial direction, in other words substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the housing.

Fig. 7e shows a fifth arrangement of the smoking system 600. The arrangement shown in FIG. 7e is identical to the arrangement shown in FIG. 7a, except that the additional insert 611 is provided in the smoking system 600 of FIG. 7e. The optional insert 611 provides additional airflow guides. Insert 611 is a grooved insert containing a solid conical tube having a number of channels formed in the radial direction. Insert 611 surrounds the capillary wick and heating coil and directs airflow through the radial channels and into the capillary wick and heating coil in a substantially radial direction, in other words substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the casing.

The embodiments shown in FIG. 7a-7e provide a substantially radially directed airflow into the capillary wick and heating coil and a substantially axially directed airflow and aerosol flow downstream of the capillary wick and heating coil. It has been found that such airflow control improves the process of aerosol formation within the smoking system. Airflow control can also reduce condensation, and therefore leakage. The guides provided by the insert 601 and the optional insert 605, 607, 609, 611, if present, channel the airflow such that they direct the airflow into the capillary wick and heating coil in a substantially radial direction. This provides cool, unsaturated air to the capillary wick and heating coil, which reduces the particle size of the aerosol inhaled by the user. The guides provided by the inner walls 603 of the housing reduce the volume of the cavity in the smoking system and therefore improve the flow of the aerosol towards the air outlet. It improves smoking.

A number of changes are possible in the smoking systems of FIG. 7a-7e. First, although the cross section of the device is shown as circular in FIG. 7a-7e, it need not be implemented in this manner. Second, more than one air inlet may be provided. The guides upstream of the capillary wick and heating coil may be provided as one or more removable parts (inserts 601, 605, 607, 609 and 611 as shown) or alternatively as an integral part of the casing or a combination of both. Likewise, the downstream guides after the capillary wick and heating coil may be one or more removable parts, or alternatively, an integral part of the casing (the inner walls of the 603-molded casing, as shown), or a combination of the two. Insert 601 is shown without channels, although longitudinal channels outward of the insert may be provided. In addition, if channels are provided, the insert may extend over the entire cross section of the casing. Any channel configuration can be provided. The channels can be twisted around the casing axis in order to stimulate swirling airflow. The channels in the inserts 601, 605, 609, 611 and the holes in the insert 607 may be machined. Alternatively, the insert may be formed with channels or holes already formed by injection molding. Any number of holes or channels may be provided in the inserts 605, 607, 609, 611. Preferably, the insert 601 includes a locating pin or protrusion (not shown) on the outer surface to engage with a slot (also not shown) on the inside of the casing walls, with in order to ensure that the insert is properly positioned within the smoking system. This can be important, for example, for electrical connections to the heating coil. Inserts 605, 607, 609, 611 may also include such a locating pin or protrusion. The inner walls 603 of the casing may be shaped appropriately for the desired volume and shape of the aerosol generating chamber within the smoking system.

Fig. 8a-8c show a seventh embodiment of a smoking system according to the invention. Fig. 8a shows a cross-sectional view of the mouthpiece end of the sixth embodiment of the smoking system 700. FIG. 8a, smoking system 700 includes guides for channeling airflow within the smoking system. In this embodiment, the guides are provided by the removable insert 701 and by the casing walls 703. The air flow is shown by dotted arrows.

The removable insert 701 is similar to the removable insert 601 shown in FIG. 7a-7e, and extends only through the center of the smoking system 700, thereby directing the airflow between the air inlet and the capillary wick and heating coil to the outer circumference of the device. In FIG. 8a, the liquid cartridge, capillary wick, and heating coil are all part of the removable insert 701, although this need not be the case.

In addition, the inner walls 703 of the casing provide guides for channeling the air flow and the aerosol flow into the capillary wick and the heating coil and between the capillary wick and the heating coil and the air outlet. The inner walls 703 of the casing also define the aerosol-forming chamber 702. In this embodiment, the walls 703 of the casing are shaped such that the incoming air flow to the capillary wick and the heating coil is directed in an upstream channel 705 tangent to the circular cross section of the device and the circular cross section aerosol generating chamber 702.

Fig. 8b is a cross section along line D-D of FIG. 8a. In FIG. 8a, the inner walls 703 of the casing are shaped so that the channel 705 provides airflow towards the capillary wick and heating coil, i.e. in the tangent direction. This forms a spiral airflow around the capillary wick and heating coil towards the air outlet.

Fig. 8c is a cross-sectional view, also along the line D-D, showing an alternative arrangement in which two channels 705, 705' are provided in the direction of the capillary wick and the heating coil. Both channels direct the airflow in a tangential direction, and together

- 15 042098 they form a spiral airflow around the capillary wick and heating coil towards the air outlet. Additional, tangent, upstream channels may also be provided.

The embodiment shown in FIG. 8a, 8b and 8c provides a substantially tangential airflow into the capillary wick and heater coil and a substantially helical airflow around the capillary wick and heater coil and out of the capillary wick and heater coil into the air outlet. It has been found that such airflow control improves the process of aerosol formation within the smoking system. Airflow control can also reduce condensation, and therefore leakage. The formed inner walls 703 of the casing, together with the insert 701, direct the airflow so as to supply cool and unsaturated air to the capillary wick and heating coil. After the air flow reaches the capillary wick and heating coil, it is immediately pumped out towards the air outlet. This reduces the particle size of the aerosol inhaled by the user. The spiral airflow around the capillary wick and heating coil increases turbulence and reduces the size of the aerosol particles. The size of the tangent channel or channels and its position relative to the longitudinal axis of the device affects the airflow around the capillary wick and heating coil and hence the characteristics of the aerosol. In addition, centrifugal forces in the helical airflow may allow large aerosol particles to influence and be trapped on the outer walls of the aerosol generating chamber 702. This is shown schematically in FIG. 8a. The arrangement according to Fig. 8c further improves aerosol generation by providing better flow distribution within the aerosol generating chamber.

A number of changes are possible in the smoking system of FIG. 8a, 8b and 8c. The cross section of the device is preferably circular so that the channel 705 can define a tangential air flow. However, other cross-sectional shapes are also possible, provided that a sort of upstream tangential channel can be defined. More than one air inlet (shroud) may be provided. The guides upstream of the capillary wick and heating coil may be one or more removable parts, or alternatively, an integral part of the casing, or a combination of the two (removable insert 701 combined with molded casing walls 703, as shown). Likewise, the downstream guides after the capillary wick and heating coil may be one or more removable parts, or alternatively, an integral part of the casing (inner walls 703 of the molded casing, as shown), or a combination of the two. Insert 701 is shown without channels, although longitudinal channels outward of insert 701 may be provided. In addition, if channels are provided, the insert may extend over the entire cross section of the casing. Any channel configuration can be provided. The channels can be twisted around the casing axis in order to stimulate swirling airflow. Any channels in insert 701 may be machined. Alternatively, the insert may be formed with channels or holes already formed by injection molding. The insert 701 may include a locating pin or protrusion (not shown) on the outer surface to engage with a slot (also not shown) on the inside of the casing walls to ensure that the insert is correctly positioned within the smoking system. This can be important, for example, for electrical connections to the heating coil. The inner walls 703 of the case may be shaped appropriately for the desired volume and shape of the aerosol generating chamber within the smoking system. This affects the helical flow of the aerosol around the capillary wick and heating coil and hence the characteristics of the aerosol. The tangent channels 705, 705' may be placed at any height along the capillary wick and may be of any suitable cross section. Fig. 9a-9c show an eighth embodiment of a smoking system according to the invention. Fig. 9a shows a cross-sectional view of the end of the mouthpiece of the seventh embodiment of the smoking system 800. FIG. 9a, smoking system 800 includes guides for channeling airflow within the smoking system. In this embodiment, the guides are provided by a removable insert 801 on the walls 803 of the molded casing and by an impactor 807. The airflow is shown by dashed arrows.

The removable insert 801 is similar to the removable insert 601 shown in FIG. 7a-7e and the removable insert 701 shown in FIG. 8a and extends only through the center of the smoking system 800, thereby directing the airflow between the air inlet and the capillary wick and heating coil to the outer circumference of the device. In FIG. 9a, the liquid cartridge, capillary wick, and heating coil are all part of the removable insert 801, although this need not be the case.

In addition, the inner walls 803 of the casing provide guides for channeling the air flow into the capillary wick and heating coil. In this embodiment, the housing walls 803 are shaped such that the incoming airflow into the capillary wick and

- 16 042098 the heating coil is guided through an upstream channel 805 tangential to the circular cross section of the device and the circular cross section of the aerosol generating chamber 802.

In addition, an impactor 807 is provided at the outlet end of the capillary wick and the heating coil. The impactor provides guides for channeling the airflow away from the capillary wick and heating coil and towards the air outlet. The impactor 807, together with the inner walls of the casing, also forms an aerosol forming chamber 802. The airflow is directed away from the capillary wick and the heating coil in a radial direction in the downstream channels 809, in other words, substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the casing. The impactor 807 makes it possible to capture large aerosol particles on the inlet side. This is shown schematically in FIG. 9a. The inner walls 803 of the case may be tapered to direct airflow towards the air outlet, although this is not shown in FIG. 9a.

Fig. 9b is a cross section along the line E-E of FIG. 9a showing the upstream conduit 805. The casing walls 803 are shaped such that the conduit 805 provides airflow towards the capillary wick and heating coil, i. in the tangent direction. This forms a spiral airflow around the capillary wick and heating coil.

Fig. 9c is a cross section along line F-F of FIG. 9a showing downstream channels 809. Impactor 807 and case walls 803 cooperate such that channels 809 provide airflow away from the capillary wick and heating coil, i. essentially in the radial direction. In other words, downstream of the helical airflow around the capillary wick and heating coil, the aerosol flow is directed in the radial direction and then towards the air outlet.

The embodiment shown in FIG. 9a, 9b and 9c provides a substantially tangential airflow into the capillary wick and heating coil, a substantially helical airflow around the capillary wick and heating coil, and a substantially radially directed airflow away from the capillary wick and heating coil into the outlet. air. It has been found that such airflow control improves the process of aerosol formation within the smoking system. Airflow control can also reduce condensation, and therefore leakage. The formed inner walls 803 of the casing, together with the insert 801, direct the airflow so as to supply cool and unsaturated air to the capillary wick and heating coil. This reduces the particle size of the aerosol inhaled by the user. The spiral airflow around the capillary wick and heating coil increases turbulence and reduces the size of the aerosol particles. Large aerosol particles can also be trapped on the inner walls of the aerosol generating chamber 802 due to centrifugal forces. This is shown schematically in FIG. 9a. The radial outlet air flow means that as soon as the air flow reaches the capillary wick and the heating coil, it is immediately pumped out towards the air outlet. Additional upstream tangential channels may be provided (eg, similar to FIG. 8c) which may provide better flow distribution within the aerosol generating chamber. The size of the tangent channel or channels and its position relative to the longitudinal axis of the device affects the airflow around the capillary wick and heating coil and hence the characteristics of the aerosol. In addition, the impactor may allow large aerosol particles to influence the upstream wall. This is shown schematically in FIG. 9a.

A number of changes are possible in the smoking system of FIG. 9a, 9b and 9c. The cross section of the device is preferably circular so that the channel 805 can define a tangential airflow. However, other cross-sectional shapes are also possible provided that the upstream tangential channel can be defined. More than one air inlet (shroud) may be provided. The guides upstream of the capillary wick and heating coil may be one or more removable parts, or alternatively, an integral part of the casing, or a combination of the two (removable insert 801 combined with molded casing walls 803, as shown). Likewise, the downstream guides after the capillary wick and heating coil may be provided as one or more removable parts, or alternatively as an integral part of the casing, or as a combination of the two (inner walls 803 of the molded casing combined with the impactor 807 as shown) . Insert 801 is shown without channels, although longitudinal channels in a direction outside of insert 801 may be provided. In addition, if channels are provided, the insert may extend over the entire cross section of the casing. Any channel configuration can be provided. The channels can be twisted around the casing axis in order to stimulate swirling airflow. Any channels in insert 801 may be machined. Alternatively, the insert may be formed with channels or holes already formed by injection molding. The insert 801 may include a locating pin or protrusion (not shown) on the outer surface to engage with a slot (also not shown) on the inside of the casing walls to ensure that the insert is correctly positioned within the smoking system. This is important, for example, for electrical connections to the heating coil. The inner walls 803 of the casing may be shaped appropriately for the desired volume and shape of the aerosol generating chamber within the smoking system. This affects the helical flow of the aerosol around the capillary wick and heating coil and hence the characteristics of the aerosol. The tangent channel 805 may be placed at any height along the capillary wick and may have any suitable cross section. Any number of radial channels 809 may be provided. The impactor 807 may be formed into any suitable shape and is preferably designed with the molded housing inner walls 803 so as to channel the airflow in the desired manner.

Fig. 10a-10d show a ninth embodiment of a smoking system according to the invention. Fig. 10a shows a cross-sectional view of the end of the mouthpiece of the eighth embodiment of the smoking system 900. FIG. 10a, smoking system 900 includes guides for ducting airflow within the smoking system. In this embodiment, guides are provided in the removable insert 901 and on the walls 903 of the molded casing. The air flow is shown by dotted arrows.

The retractable insert 901 is similar to the retractable inserts 601, 701 and 801 and extends only through the center of the smoking system 900 thereby directing the airflow between the air inlet and the capillary wick and heating coil to the outer circumference of the housing. In FIG. 10a, the liquid cartridge, capillary wick, and heating coil are part of the removable insert 901, although this need not be the case.

In addition, the inner walls 903 of the casing provide guides for channeling the air flow and aerosol flow into and out of the capillary wick and heating coil. In this embodiment, the case walls 903 are shaped such that the incoming air flow to the capillary wick and heating coil is directed through an upstream channel 905 tangentially to the circumferential cross section of the case and the circular cross section of the aerosol generating chamber 902. In addition, the case walls 903 are shaped such that the outgoing airflow from the capillary wick and heating coil is directed through a downstream channel 907 also tangential to the circular cross section of the casing and the circular cross section of the aerosol generating chamber 902. In addition, the walls 903 of the casing are shaped to provide impactor surface 909 downstream of the capillary wick and heating coil. Surface 909 may allow the capture of large aerosol particles. This is shown schematically in FIG. 10a. The inner walls of the case also define an aerosol forming chamber 902. The inner walls 903 of the case may be tapered to direct airflow towards the air outlet, although this is not shown in FIG. 10a.

Fig. 10b is a cross section along line G-G of FIG. 10a showing the upstream channel 905. The casing walls 903 are shaped such that the channel 905 provides airflow towards the capillary wick and heating coil, i. in the tangent direction. This forms a spiral airflow around the capillary wick and heating coil.

Fig. 10c is a cross section along line H-H of FIG. 10a showing the downstream channel 907. The casing walls 903 are shaped such that the channel 907 provides airflow away from the capillary wick and heating coil, i. in the tangent direction. In other words, after the air spirals around the capillary wick and the heating coil, it is directed in the tangential direction and then towards the air outlet.

Fig. 10d shows an alternative cross section along line H-H of FIG. 10a, also showing the downstream channel 907'. In FIG. 10c, channel 907 is on the same side of the device as channel 905. In FIG. 10d channel 907' is on the opposite side of the device relative to channel 905.

The embodiment shown in FIG. 10a, 10b, 10c, and 10d provides a substantially tangential airflow into the capillary wick and heating coil, a substantially helical airflow around the capillary wick and heating coil, and a substantially tangential airflow from the capillary wick and heating coil, and then towards the air outlet. It has been found that such airflow control improves the process of aerosol formation within the smoking system. Airflow control can also reduce condensation, and therefore leakage. The formed inner walls 903 of the casing, together with the insert 901, direct the airflow so as to supply cool and unsaturated air to the capillary wick and heating coil. This reduces the particle size of the aerosol inhaled by the user. Spiral airflow around capillary

- 18 042098 wick and heating coil increases turbulence and reduces the size of aerosol particles. Large aerosol particles can also be trapped on the inner walls of the aerosol generating chamber 902 due to centrifugal forces. This is shown schematically in FIG. 10a. The tangential outlet air flow means that as soon as the air flow goes around the capillary wick and the heating coil, it is immediately evacuated towards the air outlet. Additional upstream or downstream tangential channels may be provided which may provide better flow distribution within the aerosol generating chamber. The size of the tangent channels and their positions relative to the longitudinal axis of the device affect the airflow around the capillary wick and heating coil and hence the characteristics of the aerosol.

A number of changes are possible in the smoking system of FIG. 10a, 10b, 10c and 10d. The cross section of the device is preferably circular so that channels 905 and 907 can define a tangential air flow. However, other cross-sectional shapes are also possible provided that the tangent channels can be specified. More than one air inlet (shroud) may be provided. The guides upstream of the capillary wick and heating coil may be one or more removable parts, or alternatively, an integral part of the casing, or a combination of the two (removable insert 901 combined with molded casing walls 903, as shown). Similarly, the downstream guides after the capillary wick and heating coil may be one or more removable parts, or alternatively, an integral part of the casing (molded casing wall 903 as shown), or a combination of the two. Insert 901 is shown without channels, although longitudinal channels in a direction outside of insert 901 may be provided. In addition, if channels are provided, the insert may extend over the entire cross section of the casing. Any channel configuration can be provided. The channels can be twisted around the casing axis in order to stimulate swirling airflow. Any channels in insert 901 may be machined. Alternatively, the insert may be formed with channels or holes already formed by injection molding. The insert 901 may include a locating pin or protrusion (not shown) on the outer surface to engage with a slot (also not shown) on the inside of the casing walls to ensure that the insert is properly positioned within the smoking system. This is important, for example, for electrical connections to the heating coil. The inner walls 903 of the casing may be shaped appropriately for the desired volume and shape of the aerosol generating chamber within the smoking system. This affects the helical flow of the aerosol around the capillary wick and heating coil and hence the characteristics of the aerosol. The tangent channels 905, 907 may be placed at any height along the capillary wick and may be of any suitable cross section. Any number of upstream and downstream tangents can be provided.

Fig. 11a-11d show a tenth embodiment of a smoking system according to the invention. Fig. 11a shows a cross-sectional view of a smoking system including a removable insert 1001. FIG. 11b is a cross section along line B-B of FIG. 11a showing only the end of the mouthpiece. Fig. 11c is a cross section along the line C-C of FIG. 11a showing only the end of the mouthpiece. In FIG. 11a, 11b, and 11c, smoking system 1000 includes guides for channeling airflow within the smoking system. The air flow is shown by dotted arrows.

The removable insert 1001 is shown in cross section in FIG. 11a. The insert includes upstream channels 1003 for channeling the air flow from the air inlet into the capillary wick and heating coil and downstream channels 1005 for channeling the air flow away from the capillary wick and heating coil towards the air outlet. Channels 1003 and 1005 are substantially perpendicular to each other and also substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the casing.

Fig. 11b shows a cross section along B-B of FIG. 11a and fig. 11c shows a cross section along C-C of FIG. 11a. As seen in FIG. 11b and 11c, in this embodiment, the guides are provided by a removable insert 1001 and a removable insert 1007. The removable insert 1007 is similar to the removable inserts 601, 701, 801, and 901 and extends only through the center of the smoking system 1000, thereby directing the airflow between the opening. for air inlet and capillary wick and heating coil on the outer circumference of the casing. In FIG. 11b and 11c, the liquid cartridge, capillary wick, and heating coil are all part of the removable insert 1007, although this need not be the case. The removable insert 1001 is located around the capillary wick and heating coil. The removable insert 1001 extends over the entire cross section of the device.

Since FIG. 11b shows a cross section along B-B of FIG. 11a, fig. 11b shows the airflow as far as the capillary wick and heating coil. As shown in FIG. 11a and 11b, channels 1003 direct airflow to the capillary wick and heating coil along

- 19 042098 essentially in the radial direction, in other words, essentially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the casing.

Since FIG. 11c shows a cross section along C-C of FIG. 11a, fig. 11c shows the airflow downstream of the capillary wick and heating coil. As shown in FIG. 11a and 11c, channels 1005 direct airflow away from the capillary wick and heating coil in a substantially radial direction. In addition, channels 1005 define an aerosol-forming chamber 1002.

The casing walls may additionally have a tapering shape towards the air outlet, although this is not shown in FIG. 11b and 11c.

Fig. 11d shows an alternative arrangement with respect to a removable insert 1001'. In this embodiment, the insert includes four upstream channels 1003' to channel the air flow from the air inlet to the capillary wick and heating coil. Similarly to FIG. 11a, the insert also includes two downstream channels 1005' to channel the air flow away from the capillary wick and heating coil towards the air outlet. Channels 1003' and 1005' are essentially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the casing. The channels are directed in the radial direction. Although the two upstream channels 1003 are shown in FIG. 11a and four upstream channels 1003' are shown in FIG. 11d, any suitable number of upstream channels may be provided, in the radial direction and substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the housing. Similarly, although two downstream channels 1005, 1005' are shown in FIG. 11a and 11d, any suitable number of downstream channels may be provided, in the radial direction and substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the housing.

The embodiments shown in FIG. 11a-11d provide substantially radial airflow to the capillary wick and heating coil and substantially radial airflow from the capillary wick and heating coil. It has been found that such airflow control improves the process of aerosol formation within the smoking system. Airflow control can also reduce condensation, and therefore leakage. The guides provided by the inserts 1007 and 1001 channel the airflow such that they direct the airflow into the capillary wick and heating coil in a substantially radial direction. This provides cool, unsaturated air to the capillary wick and heating coil, which reduces the particle size of the aerosol inhaled by the user. The guides provided by the insert 1001 channel the airflow such that they direct the airflow away from the capillary wick and heating coil in a substantially radial direction and also reduce the volume of the aerosol generating chamber 1002 in the smoking system. This improves the flow of the aerosol towards the air outlet. It improves smoking.

A number of changes are possible in the smoking system of FIG. 11a-11d. First, although the cross section of the device is shown as circular in FIG. 11a-11d, it need not be implemented in this manner. Second, more than one air inlet may be provided. The guides downstream of the capillary wick and heating coil may be one or more removable parts (inserts 1001 and 1007 as shown), or alternatively, an integral part of the casing, or a combination of both. Likewise, the guides downstream of the capillary wick and heating coil may be provided as one or more removable parts (inserts 1001 as shown), or alternatively, as an integral part of the casing, or as a combination of both. Insert 1007 is shown without channels, although longitudinal channels outward of the insert may be provided. In addition, if channels are provided, the insert may extend over the entire cross section of the casing. Any channel configuration can be provided. The channels can be twisted around the casing axis in order to stimulate swirling airflow. The channels in the insert 1007 may be formed by machining. Alternatively, the insert may be formed with channels or holes already formed by injection molding. Preferably, the insert 1007 includes a locating pin or protrusion (not shown) on the outer surface to engage with a slot (also not shown) on the inside of the casing walls to ensure that the insert is correctly positioned within the smoking system. This is important, for example, for electrical connections to the heating coil.

Any suitable channel configuration may be provided in the insert 1001. The channels may be evenly or unevenly distributed around the circumference around the insert. The channels may have a constant shape and cross-sectional area along their length, or the cross-sectional shape may vary along their length. The channels may include some channels having different shapes and cross-sectional areas from others. The channels in the insert 1001 may be formed by machining. Alternatively, the insert may be formed with channels or holes already formed by injection molding. Preferably, the insert 1001 includes a locating pin or protrusion (not shown) on the outer surface to engage with the slot (also

- 20 042098 not shown) on the inside of the casing walls in order to ensure that the insert is correctly positioned within the smoking system. This is important, for example, for electrical connections to the heating coil. Channels 1005 may be appropriately shaped for the desired volume and shape of the aerosol generating chamber within the smoking system.

Fig. 12a-12n show an eleventh embodiment of a smoking system according to the invention. On each of the FIGS. 12a-12n, the smoking system includes guides for channeling the air flow within the smoking system. The air flow is shown by dotted arrows.

Fig. 12a shows a first arrangement of a smoking system 1100, and FIG. 12b is a cross section along line J-J of FIG. 12a. In FIG. 12a and 12b, the guides are provided by a removable insert 1101, a second removable insert 1103, and by the inner walls 1105 of the molded casing. The removable insert 1101 extends only through the center of the smoking system 1100, thereby directing the airflow between the air inlet and the capillary wick and heating coil to the outer circumference of the casing. In FIG. 12a, the liquid cartridge, capillary wick, and heating coil are all part of the removable insert 1101, although this need not be the case.

The second removable insert 1103 is shaped so that the airflow is directed through the capillary wick and the heating coil in a substantially perpendicular direction. In other words, the airflow is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the casing and the capillary wick. The second removable insert 1103 provides an upstream channel 1107 on one side of the insert and a further downstream channel 1109 on the other side of the insert. When the insert is positioned around the capillary wick and heating coil, air therefore flows directly through the capillary wick and heating coil. The insert 1103 also forms the aerosol forming chamber 1102.

In addition, the inner walls 1005 of the housing provide guides for ducting the air flow and aerosol flow between the capillary wick and the heating coil and the air outlet. In this embodiment, the inner walls 1105 of the casing are tapered in the direction of the air outlet so as to direct the airflow and the flow of the aerosol towards the air outlet.

Fig. 12c shows a second smoking system arrangement, 1100', and FIG. 12d is a cross section along the K-K line of FIG. 12s. The arrangement shown in Fig. 12c and 12d is identical to the arrangement shown in FIG. 12a and 12b, except that the second removable insert 1103 includes a perturbation module 1111 surrounding the capillary wick and heating coil. In this embodiment, the perturbation module 1111 includes a cylindrical tube surrounding the capillary wick and heating coil with holes to direct airflow in and out of the capillary wick and heating coil. This provides additional turbulence in the aerosol generating chamber 1102.

Fig. 12e shows another embodiment of a removable insert 1103'. The embodiment shown in FIG. 12e is identical to the embodiment shown in FIG. 11b, except that the aerosol-forming chamber is formed with constrictions 1117 toward the outlet side. The constrictions 1117 provide turbulence and in particular allow the airflow to collide with the outlet side of the capillary wick and heating coil.

Fig. 12f shows another embodiment of the removable insert 1103. The embodiment shown in FIG. 12f provides two upstream channels 1107a and 1107b on opposite sides of the insert and two downstream channels 1109a and 1109b on opposite sides of the insert. The air flow is directed from the upstream channel 1107a, directly through the capillary wick and heating coil, towards the downstream channel 1109b. Simultaneously, the air flow is directed in the opposite direction from the upstream channel 1107b, directly through the capillary wick and heating coil, towards the downstream channel 1109a. This provides additional turbulence. In FIG. 12f, the aerosol forming chamber is formed with compartments 1119. This prevents or reduces flow from the upstream channel 1107a to the downstream channel 1109a and from the upstream channel 1107b to the downstream channel 1109b. In FIG. 12f, the aerosol forming chamber is formed with constrictions 1117' to each side of the outlet, although the constrictions 1117' may be omitted. The constrictions 1117' provide turbulence and in particular allow the airflow to collide with the outlet side of the capillary wick and heating coil.

Fig. 12g shows another arrangement of the smoking system. In FIG. 12g only e-liquid cartridge, capillary wick and heating coil shown for clarity. Fig. 12h is a cross section similar to those in FIG. 12b, 12d, 12e and 12f, but showing the construction of FIG. 12g. In FIG. 12g and 12h, two pins 1119, 1121 are provided in the air stream via a capillary wick and a heating coil. The pins guide the air flow and provide additional turbulence in the aerosol generating chamber. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 12g and 12h, the pins are connection pins for the heating coil, with pins 1119 being the positive connection and pins 1121 being the negative connection. However, it doesn't have to be implemented that way.

Fig. 12i shows an alternative design shown in FIG. 12g. In FIG. 12i pins 1119', 1121' are made in the form of flags. The pin 1119' has a pin section 1119a at the base and a wider, bladed section 1119b at the top. Likewise, pin 1121' has a pin portion 1121a at the base and a wider, bladed portion 1121b at the top. This provides a better direction of air flow through the capillary wick and heating coil. Fig. 12j shows another alternative design shown in FIG. 12g. In FIG. 12j, the pins are in the form of wide heating blades 1119, 1121. On the other hand, this provides a better direction of the air flow through the capillary wick and the heating coil.

Fig. 12k and 12l show two alternative arrangements with respect to the pins shown in FIG. 12l and 12j. Fig. 12k is a cross section similar to those in FIG. 12b, 12d, 12e, 12f and 12h. As shown in FIG. 12k, the paddle portions of the pins may be straight and directed in a downward direction, in other words, in the direction of the downstream channel 1109. FIG. 12l is a cross section similar to those in FIG. 12b, 12d, 12e, 12f, 12h and 12k. As shown in FIG. 12l, the paddle portions of the pins may be curved and directed in a downward direction, in other words, in the direction of the downstream channel 1109.

The embodiments shown in FIG. 12a-12l provide substantially radial airflow to the capillary wick and heating coil and substantially radial airflow from the capillary wick and heating coil. In particular, the air flow is directed through the capillary wick and the heating coil. It has been found that such airflow control improves the process of aerosol formation within the smoking system. Airflow control can also reduce condensation, and therefore leakage. The guides provided by the inserts 1101 and 1103 channel the airflow such that they direct the airflow into the capillary wick and heating coil in a substantially radial direction. This provides cool, unsaturated air to the capillary wick and heating coil, which reduces the particle size of the aerosol inhaled by the user. The guides provided by the insert 1103 channel the airflow so that they direct the airflow away from the capillary wick and heating coil in a substantially radial direction and also reduce the volume of the aerosol generating chamber in the smoking system. This improves the flow of the aerosol towards the air outlet. In addition, additional components may be provided in the air stream to increase turbulence. It improves smoking.

A number of changes are possible in the smoking system of FIG. 12a-12l. First, although the cross section of the device is shown as circular in FIG. 12a-12l, it need not be implemented in this manner. Second, more than one air inlet may be provided. The guides upstream of the capillary wick and heating coil may be provided as one or more removable parts (inserts 1101 and 1103 as shown), or alternatively as an integral part of the housing, or as a combination of the two. Likewise, the downstream guides after the capillary wick and heating coil may be provided as one or more removable parts, or alternatively, as an integral part of the casing, or as a combination of the two (inserts 1103 and molded casing walls 1105, as shown). Insert 1101 is shown without channels, although longitudinal channels outward of the insert may be provided. In addition, if channels are provided, the insert may extend over the entire cross section of the casing. Any channel configuration can be provided. The channels can be twisted around the casing axis in order to stimulate swirling airflow. The channels in the insert 1101 may be formed by machining. Alternatively, the insert may be formed with channels or holes already formed by injection molding. Preferably, the insert 1101 includes a locating pin or protrusion (not shown) on the outer surface to engage with a slot (also not shown) on the inside of the casing walls to ensure that the insert is correctly positioned within the smoking system. This can be important, for example, for electrical connections to the heating coil.

Any suitable channel configuration may be provided in insert 1103, including any suitable number of upstream channels and any suitable number of downstream channels. The channels may have a constant shape and cross-sectional area along their length, or the cross-sectional shape may vary along their length. The channels may include some channels having different shapes and cross-sectional areas from others. The channels in the insert 1103 may be formed by machining. Alternatively, the insert may be formed with channels or holes already formed by casting.

- 22 042098 under pressure. Preferably, the insert 1103 includes a locating pin or protrusion (not shown) on the outer surface to engage with a slot (also not shown) on the inside of the casing walls to ensure that the insert is correctly positioned within the smoking system.

The insert 1103 may be shaped appropriately for the required volume of the aerosol generating chamber within the smoking system.

The pins shown in Fig. 12g-12l may be suitably shaped to direct airflow through the capillary wick and heating element in the desired manner. In addition, although the pins are shown as being connected to the heating coil, this need not be the case.

A large number of embodiments have been described above, however, it should be understood that the features described with respect to one embodiment may also be used in another embodiment where appropriate. The scope of the present invention is defined in the appended claims.

Claims (14)

CLAIM 1. A smoking system comprising a liquid storage part; a capillary wick for holding liquid, the capillary wick comprising a ceramic material or a graphite material; at least one heater for heating the liquid in the capillary wick for forming an aerosol, wherein the capillary wick has a first end and a second end, and the first end is located in contact with the liquid in the liquid storage part, while said at least one heater is located with the possibility heating the liquid at the second end of the capillary wick; at least one air inlet, at least one air outlet, and a chamber between said air inlet and said air outlet, wherein said air outlet and the chamber are positioned to define an airflow path from said air inlet to said air outlet so as to carry the aerosol to the air outlet, as well as at least one airflow channeling guide in said airflow path. 2. The smoking system of claim 1, wherein the ceramic material or graphite material is in the form of fibers or sintered powders. 3. A smoking system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein said at least one heater is in the form of a sheet material. 4. A smoking system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said at least one heater comprises at least one of stainless steel, nickel alloy, chromium alloy, iron alloy, aluminum alloy or titanium. 5. A smoking system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said at least one heater is at least partially in contact with the capillary wick. 6. A smoking system according to any of the preceding claims, further comprising a casing comprising a sheath and a mouthpiece, wherein the liquid storage portion, the capillary wick, said at least one heater and the air outlet are contained in the mouthpiece. 7. A smoking system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the liquid storage portion does not include any porous material. 8. A smoking system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the capillary wick extends along the longitudinal direction of the smoking system from the first end of the wick to the second end of the wick. 9. The smoking system of claim 8, wherein said at least one guide is configured to channel the air flow along the course of the capillary wick in a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the capillary wick. 10. A smoking system according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a housing, wherein said at least one airflow channeling guide is provided with an internal shape of the housing. 11. A smoking system according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a housing, wherein the internal shape of the housing at least partially defines the shape of the chamber. 12. A smoking system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said at least one guide is positioned such that the airflow velocity along the wick is greater than the airflow velocity downstream of the wick. - 23 042098 13. The smoking system of claim 12, wherein said at least one guide is configured to channel the air flow in the air flow path downstream of the capillary wick. 14. A smoking system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the casing is internally shaped downstream of the capillary wick to form an impactor, the impactor being reversible.