JP2022535495A - Aerosol delivery device - Google Patents

Abstract

The aerosol delivery device comprises a housing defining a first opening at a first end of the housing and a second opening at a second end of the housing for receiving an aerosol-generating material therethrough. A chamber is disposed between the second opening and the first opening, and at least a portion of the chamber is configured to receive the aerosol-generating material. At least one heater is disposed within the housing and configured to heat the aerosol-generating material received within the chamber, thereby generating an aerosol. An absorbent material is provided for absorbing liquids. In use, the aerosol is drawn along the flow path through the chamber toward the first opening, and the absorbent material is at least partially upstream of the portion of the chamber configured to receive the aerosol-generating material. are strategically placed.
[Selection drawing] Fig. 8

Description

The present invention relates to an aerosol delivery device and an absorbent member for an aerosol delivery device.

background

Smoking articles such as cigarettes, cigars and the like burn tobacco during use to produce tobacco smoke. Attempts have been made to provide an alternative to these articles that burn tobacco by creating products that release compounds without burning. An example of such a product is a heating device, which releases compounds by heating the material rather than burning it. The material may be, for example, a tobacco product or other non-tobacco product, and may or may not contain nicotine.

Overview

According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, an aerosol delivery device is provided, comprising:
a housing defining a first opening in a first end of the housing and a second opening in a second end of the housing for receiving an aerosol-generating material therethrough;
a chamber disposed between the second opening and the first opening, at least a portion of the chamber configured to receive the aerosol-generating material;
at least one heater disposed within the housing and configured to heat an aerosol-generating material received within the chamber, thereby generating an aerosol;
an absorbent material for absorbing liquid;
During use, the aerosol is drawn along the flow path through the chamber toward the first opening;
The absorbent material is at least partially disposed upstream of the portion of the chamber configured to receive the aerosol-generating material.

According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an absorbent member for absorbing liquid within an aerosol delivery device, the absorbent member comprising an absorbent material supported by a substrate, the absorbent member comprising: It is configured to be at least partially received in a chamber of the aerosol delivery device adjacent the aerosol-generating material.

According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, an aerosol delivery device is provided, comprising:
a housing defining a first opening in a first end of the housing and a second opening in a second end of the housing for receiving an aerosol-generating material therethrough;
a chamber disposed between the second opening and the first opening, at least a portion of the chamber configured to receive the aerosol-generating material;
at least one heater disposed within the housing and configured to heat an aerosol-generating material received within the chamber, thereby generating an aerosol;
a hydrophobic material disposed within the housing to substantially prevent leakage of liquid from the aerosol delivery device;
During use, the aerosol is drawn through the chamber toward the first opening.

According to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, an aerosol delivery device is provided, comprising:
a housing defining a first opening in a first end of the housing and a second opening in a second end of the housing for receiving an aerosol-generating material therethrough;
a chamber disposed between the second opening and the first opening, at least a portion of the chamber configured to receive the aerosol-generating material;
at least one heater disposed within the housing and configured to heat an aerosol-generating material received within the chamber, thereby generating an aerosol;
A removable cover configured to receive liquid from the chamber is attachable to the aerosol delivery device at a position where the second opening is blocked by the cover.

Further features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description of preferred embodiments of the invention, given by way of example only, made with reference to the accompanying drawings.

1 is a front view of an example of an aerosol delivery device; FIG. Figure 2 is a front view of the aerosol delivery device of Figure 1 with the outer cover removed; Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of the aerosol delivery device of Figure 1; Figure 3 is an exploded view of the aerosol delivery device of Figure 2; Fig. 5A is a cross-sectional view of the heating assembly inside the aerosol delivery device; FIG. Fig. 5B is shown in FIG. 5A is an enlarged view of a portion of the heating assembly of FIG. Fig. 10 is a perspective view of the bottom end of the aerosol delivery device with a door providing access to the second opening; Fig. 3 is a perspective view of the bottom end of the aerosol delivery device with the door omitted; 1 is a perspective view of an aerosol delivery device with certain components of the heating assembly omitted; FIG. Fig. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a first absorbent member positioned inside a chamber of an aerosol delivery device; Figure 9 is a perspective view of the absorbent member of Figure 8; Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a second absorbent member positioned within a recess of the door of the aerosol delivery device; Figure 11 is a perspective view of the absorbent member of Figure 10; Fig. 4 is a perspective view of a third absorbent member; Fig. 10 is a perspective view of a fourth absorbent member; 1 is a perspective view of a hydrophobic layer according to an example; FIG. Fig. 2 is a schematic illustration of a hydrophobic layer placed inside a recess of a closed door of an aerosol delivery device; Fig. 2 is a schematic illustration of a hydrophobic layer placed inside a recess of an open door of an aerosol delivery device; 1 is a perspective view of an absorbent member disposed in a hydrophobic layer according to one example; FIG.

detailed description

As used herein, the term "aerosol-generating material" includes materials that provide volatile components upon heating, typically in the form of an aerosol. Aerosol-generating materials include any tobacco-containing material, and may include, for example, one or more of tobacco, tobacco derivatives, expanded tobacco, reconstituted tobacco, or tobacco substitutes. Aerosol-generating materials may also include other non-tobacco products and, depending on the product, may or may not contain nicotine. Aerosol-generating materials may be in the form of, for example, solids, liquids, gels, waxes, or the like. The aerosol-generating material can be, for example, a combination or mixture of materials. Aerosol-generating materials are sometimes known as "smokable materials."

Devices are known that heat an aerosol-generating material to volatilize at least one component of the aerosol-generating material, typically to form an inhalable aerosol, without burning or incinerating the aerosol-generating material. Such devices are sometimes described as "aerosol generating devices," "aerosol delivery devices," "non-combustion heating devices," "tobacco heating products devices," or "tobacco heating devices," or the like. There are also so-called e-cigarette devices, which typically vaporize an aerosol-generating material in the form of a liquid that may or may not contain nicotine. The aerosol-generating material may be provided in the form of or as part of a rod, cartridge or cassette or the like insertable into the device. A heater for heating and volatilizing the aerosol-generating material may be provided as a "permanent" part of the device.

The aerosol delivery device can receive an article containing an aerosol-generating material for heating. An "article" in this context is a component that contains or includes an aerosol-generating material that is heated to volatilize the aerosol-generating material and optionally other components that are used. A user can insert the article into the aerosol delivery device, which is then heated to create an aerosol, which is subsequently inhaled by the user. The article can, for example, be of a predetermined or specific size and configured to be located inside a heating chamber of a device sized to receive the article.

Articles, such as rod-shaped articles, are often named according to the length of the product, "regular" (usually in the range of 68-75 mm, eg, about 68 mm to about 72 mm), "short". or "mini" (68 mm or less), "king size" (usually in the range of 75-91 mm, e.g., about 79 mm to about 88 mm), "long" or "super king" (usually in the range of 91-105 mm, e.g., about 94 mm to about 101 mm), and "ultra long" (usually in the range of about 110 mm to about 121 mm).

Articles are also named according to the circumference of the product: "regular" (about 23-25 mm), "wide" (over 25 mm), "slim" (about 22-23 mm), "demi-slim" (about 19 22 mm), "super slim" (approximately 16-19 mm), and "micro slim" (less than approximately 16 mm).

Thus, a king-size, super-slim form of the article, for example, would have a length of about 83 mm and a circumference of about 17 mm.

Each configuration may be produced with mouthpieces of different lengths. The length of the mouthpiece is typically about 10mm to 50mm. The tipping paper connects the mouthpiece to the aerosol-generating material and is usually larger than the mouthpiece, e.g. having a length of 3-10 mm longer, so the tipping paper covers the mouthpiece, e.g. In the form of a rod, it overlaps the aerosol-generating material to connect the mouthpiece to the rod.

The articles and the aerosol-generating materials and mouthpieces of the articles described herein can be made in, but not limited to, any of the forms described above.

A first aspect of the present disclosure defines an aerosol delivery device that includes an absorbent material for absorbing liquid, such as liquid residue. It has been found that when an article containing an aerosol-generating material is heated inside the chamber of the device, the aerosol can cool and condense inside the device. For example, the aerosol can condense on the inner surfaces of the chamber. This condensate or liquid may run down the inside of the chamber and accumulate at the bottom of the device. In some examples, the bottom of the device includes a door or cover, also known as a cleaning door, to allow user access to the chamber for cleaning. Liquid may leak out of the cover when opened. In other examples, the cover (or bottom of the device) may include one or more air inlets. Liquid may leak out of the air inlet during use or when the device is stored. Additionally, liquid may leak through voids around the outside of the cover. It is desirable to reduce any liquid leakage from the device.

In some instances, leakage is reduced by absorbing liquid before it can leak out of the device. Accordingly, one or more absorbent/absorptive members/materials may be placed inside the device to absorb any liquid that forms or collects inside the chamber. Once absorbed by the absorbent material, the liquid may evaporate or be substantially retained within the absorbent material during subsequent storage periods. The absorbent material can be removable from the device and thus can be cleaned and replaced inside the device, emptied and replaced inside the device, emptied and cleaned and replaced inside the device. or can be disposed of and replaced with new absorbent material.

An example aerosol delivery device comprises a housing, the housing/device defining a first opening at a first end for receiving an aerosol-generating material therethrough. The housing/device further defines a second opening at the second end of the housing/device. A second opening can allow a user to access the device for cleaning. The housing may, for example, be at least partially defined by an outer cover and one or more end members. The first opening may be located at the mouth end of the device. A second opening may be located at the distal end of the device. The second end may be opposed from the first end.

A chamber may be positioned between the second opening and the first opening. A chamber may be defined by one or more components. For example, a chamber may be at least partially defined by a susceptor or other heating component. The chamber may additionally or alternatively be at least partially defined by a hollow member, sometimes known as a vacuum tube or support. A hollow member may support a susceptor. At least a portion of the chamber is configured to receive an aerosol-generating material. For example, a susceptor may receive an aerosol-generating material. The chamber can define a flow path or through hole between the first opening and the second opening.

As mentioned, the device includes an absorbent material for absorbing liquids. The absorbent material is positioned closer to the second opening than to the first opening and/or upstream of the flow path in the portion of the chamber configured to receive the aerosol-generating material. can be placed at least partially in the An aerosol is produced by heating the aerosol-generating material and is drawn through the chamber toward the first opening when a user inhales against the device. Accordingly, the absorbent material is placed upstream of the aerosol flow path. Absorbent material is therefore placed near the distal end of the device to absorb liquids flowing towards the distal end of the device. In other words, the chamber can define a first section for receiving the aerosol-generating material. The first section can be, for example, a heating section. An absorbent material may be disposed in the device between the first section and the second opening or cover. The distal end of the device may, for example, be the bottom end of the device furthest from the user's mouth during use. Liquid may flow towards the distal end of the device due to gravity. Condensation can form towards the distal end of the device because this region is cooler than the oral end of the device. When the device is in use (ie during a heating session) the aerosol is drawn through the chamber towards the first opening.

The device includes at least one heater disposed within the housing, the heater configured to heat an aerosol-generating material received within the housing/chamber to generate an aerosol. A heater is sometimes known as a heater/heating assembly. The heater can be an induction heater or a resistance heater. In some examples, the heater may comprise one or more inductor coils. Each inductor coil can be arranged to produce a varying magnetic field that penetrates the susceptor. As described in more detail herein, the susceptor is an electrically conductive object, heatable by penetration by a changing magnetic field. An article containing an aerosol-generating material can be received within the susceptor or placed near or in contact with the susceptor. Once heated, the susceptor transfers heat to the aerosol-generating material and emits an aerosol. A heater may comprise a susceptor.

The device is movable between a first position in which the second opening is blocked, covered or closed by the cover and a second position in which the second opening is open and uncovered or unblocked. It may have a cover or door. The second opening is "open" as long as access to the second opening is possible, eg the second opening may still be partially covered by the cover. In some examples, access to the opening is substantially unobstructed by the cover in the second position. A user may open the cover to clean the device or change the absorbent material.

The chamber may have a first section for receiving the aerosol-generating material and a second section for receiving the absorbent material. Thus, the absorbent material may be at least partially disposed inside the chamber.

The cover may comprise a recess and the absorbent material may be at least partially disposed in the recess. The recesses can also stop liquid from leaking out of the device even when the absorbent material is saturated. A recess inside the cover can allow the absorbent material to be more easily removed and inspected by the user. For example, the cover can be opened and the user can check whether the absorbent material needs cleaning or replacement, touch the absorbent material, or remove the absorbent material from the chamber. do not need. Additionally, by placing the absorbent material on the cover, the liquid can be collected farther from the heater, keeping the inside of the device/chamber cleaner and any liquid before it reaches the absorbent material. , can provide more opportunities for evaporation.

In some examples, the cover is removable from the device. This can allow the user to more easily dispose of the absorbent material and/or flush any excess liquid out of the recess. The cover can be completely removable from the device.

In one example, the cover defines one or more apertures for air to pass through, and the apertures may be located outside the recessed portion of the cover. Thus, even when the absorbent material is saturated, liquid is substantially prevented from leaking out of the cover. One or more apertures are sometimes known as air inlets.

During use, the absorbent material may be at least partially positioned between the aerosol-generating material and the cover. That is, the absorbent material and the aerosol-generating material may be placed inside the device at the same time. For example, the aerosol-generating material may be placed inside the first section of the chamber and the absorbent material may be placed in the second section of the chamber or placed in a recess in the cover. Sometimes. This allows liquid to be absorbed when the device is in use (ie during a heating session).

Absorbent materials may include foams such as polyurethane foam and high density polyurethane foam, sponge, paper or cellulose acetate. These materials are lightweight, absorbent, and relatively inexpensive to manufacture.

The absorbent material may include filament tow material, also called fibrous material, which may include cellulose acetate fiber tow. Filament tows are polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH), polylactic acid (PLA), polycaprolactone (PCL), poly(1-4 butanediol succinate) (PBS), poly(butylene adipate-coterephthalate) (PBAT), starch-based other materials used to form fibers such as cotton, aliphatic polyester materials and polysaccharide polymers, or combinations thereof. The filament tow can be plasticized using a suitable plasticizer for the tow, such as triacetin, where the material may be cellulose acetate tow or the tow may not be plasticized. Unless otherwise stated, the tows can have any suitable specification, the fibers have other cross-sections such as a "Y" shape or an "X" shape, and filament denier values range from 2 per filament to 20 denier, eg, 4-14 denier per filament, total denier value between 5,000 and 50,000, eg, 10,000-40,000.

The absorbent material may have an absorbent capacity of at least 7 grams of water per gram of absorbent material. In other examples, the absorbent capacity can be at least 10 grams per gram or at least 15 grams per gram. Absorption capacity measures the weight of liquid that can be held by a material without leakage. A higher capacity is preferred to ensure that the absorbent material can hold a sufficient amount of liquids that may be encountered during use without leakage. For example, a higher absorbent capacity allows for more uses of the aerosol delivery device before the absorbent material is emptied or needs to be replaced. In some examples, a hydrophilic polyurethane foam is used that is commercially available under the trade name Freudenberg 1012 from Freudenberg Performance Materials, headquartered in Weinheim, Germany. It has an absorption capacity of 20 grams per gram.

Absorbent capacity in this case is measured by pouring water onto a test piece of absorbent material, such as a piece of foam with a flat top surface. The specimen is placed on the surface of the weighing scale and is not constrained, eg, the specimen is free to expand in size. Water is added until water is observed to leak out of the absorbent material or pool on top of the absorbent material. This indicates that the foam has been saturated and reached its absorbent capacity. The weight at this point is recorded and used to calculate the absorbent capacity based on the known weight of the dry foam tested.

Absorbent material may be disposed at least partially in the section of the chamber. In some examples, the section of the chamber and at least a portion of the absorbent material may have corresponding cross-sectional shapes. This allows the absorbent material to be received inside the chamber and provide a good fit to reduce leakage. In certain examples, the chamber and absorbent material have a circular cross-sectional shape.

A section of the chamber may be tubular and at least a portion of the absorbent material may be tubular. This allows better air flow through the absorbent material. In certain examples, the section of the chamber is a cylindrical tube and at least a portion of the absorbent material is a cylindrical tube.

At least a portion of the absorbent material may be gas permeable. This allows air to be drawn through the absorbent material. A gas permeable absorbent material can allow gas to pass therethrough, for example, in a direction toward a portion of the chamber configured to receive the aerosol-generating material. The action of drawing through the gas permeable absorbent material may cause any liquid inside the absorbent material to be drawn toward the first end and away from the second end, causing leakage. and move the liquid towards hotter parts of the device in use where the liquid is more likely to evaporate. The pressure drop created by drawing through the absorbent material is preferably less than about 200 Pa (20 mm H2O), more preferably less than about 100 Pa (10 mm H2O), or less than 50 Pa (5 mm H2O). This depends on the dimensions and material properties of the absorbent material in the flow path and is tested by determining the difference in pressure drop across the aerosol delivery device, with or without absorbent material in place.

The absorbent material may have through holes for the passage of air. Through holes can therefore allow the absorbent material to be gas permeable with a reduced pressure drop. In certain examples, at least a portion of the absorbent material forms a tube that is received in the tubular section of the chamber.

Absorbent material may cover one or more air inlets. The absorbent material therefore reduces liquid leakage from the air inlet. As mentioned, the air inlet may be an aperture formed in the cover.

The absorbent member may include an absorbent material supported by a substrate. The substrate can provide rigidity and keep the absorbent material in place inside the device. In one example, the substrate is hydrophobic, thus reducing the likelihood of liquid immersion throughout the absorbent member and then out of the device. In another example, the substrate is at least partially absorbent, but stiffer than the absorbent material. The substrate may have a lower absorption capacity than the absorbent material and thus may absorb less liquid than the absorbent portion. The substrate may be gas permeable.

In one example, the absorbent material forms at least part of the brush. Thus, the brush contains absorbent material. The brush therefore acts as an absorbent member to retain/retain the liquid. Brushes may also retain solid particles such as loose tobacco.

Brushes may include absorbent material in the form of bristles or filaments. A brush may include an absorbent material in the form of a mesh. Bristles, filaments and meshes are absorbent materials because they retain/retain liquid droplets within their structure. For example, liquid droplets may become trapped in spaces between bristles/filaments. Similarly, the mesh may include a structure of intertwined or woven strands that maintain/hold liquid droplets in the spaces between them.

A brush may include an absorbent material supported by a substrate. The substrate may form a "backbone" to which the bristles, filaments or mesh are attached.

As with other examples, the absorbent member may be removed from the device and disposed of or cleaned and returned to the device.

The substrate may include at least one engagement feature for engaging the housing or cover. The cover or housing may have corresponding engagement features. The engagement feature(s) allow the absorbent member to be secured in place. In one example, the substrate includes one or more protrusions for engaging one or more corresponding channels/notches formed in the housing or cover. In another example, the substrate includes one or more recesses for receiving one or more corresponding projections formed on the housing or cover. In certain examples, an engagement feature on the base plate and a corresponding engagement feature on the cover or housing form a bayonet locking mechanism.

The chamber may include a barrier to separate the aerosol-generating material from the absorbent material. A barrier is sometimes known as a blocking member. The barrier may be defined by an end of a hollow tube/support that may form at least part of the chamber. For example, the hollow tube/support may have a narrower width than the rest of the chamber forming the step, so that the end of the hollow tube hits the aerosol-generating material when received in the chamber. contact, stopping the aerosol-generating material from contacting the absorbent material. The barrier may be a separate piece that is placed or inserted into the chamber downstream of the absorbent material. When the barrier is a separate part, it may include one or more retaining features to retain the barrier in the chamber. The aerosol-generating material can therefore be prevented from entering the hollow tube/support. The absorbent material may be placed in a hollow tube or in a recess in the cover. In any event, the barrier reduces the likelihood of wetting of the aerosol-generating material by preventing contact between the aerosol-generating material and the absorbent material.

The device may further include a hydrophobic material, such as a hydrophobic layer, disposed inside the housing to substantially prevent liquid from escaping from the aerosol delivery device. For example, the hydrophobic material can substantially prevent liquid from leaking past the cover when the cover is placed in the first position. The hydrophobic material provides a liquid impermeable layer that stops the penetration of liquids out of the cover through the absorbent material.

In certain examples, the absorbent material is positioned closer to the first opening than the hydrophobic material (ie, the absorbent material is positioned between the hydrophobic material and the aerosol-generating material). A hydrophobic material can therefore stop any liquid that seeps through the absorbent material. In an alternative example, the hydrophobic material is positioned closer to the first opening than the absorbent material (ie, the hydrophobic material is positioned between the absorbent material and the aerosol-generating material). A hydrophobic material and an absorbent material may be disposed in the recess of the cover. Alternatively, one of the hydrophobic material and the absorbent material may be placed in a recess in the cover. Preferably, the absorbent material is at least partially arranged inside the chamber and the hydrophobic material is arranged inside the recess of the cover.

In some examples, at least a portion of the chamber is hydrophobic or includes a hydrophobic coating to facilitate liquid flow toward the absorbent material. This helps reduce the likelihood of solidification of residue inside the chamber.

In some examples, at least a portion of the chamber is formed from polypropylene or polyethylene. Portions of the chamber may be coated with a layer of polypropylene or polyethylene in certain instances. Polypropylene and polyethylene are examples of hydrophobic materials.

In certain examples, at least a portion of the chamber surface is modified to increase the hydrophobicity of the surface. One example of modifying a surface is polishing the surface so that the surface is a polished surface.

In examples including absorbent material, at least a portion of the absorbent material may be configured to provide a visual indication to indicate when the absorbent material is ready for replacement or cleaning. For example, the absorbent material is ready for replacement or cleaning when a predetermined amount of liquid has been absorbed by the absorbent material or when the absorbent material has been used for a predetermined length of time. sometimes

In one example, the visual indication is a color change of a portion of the absorbent material. For example, the absorbent material may be configured to change from a first color to a second color, the first and second colors being different (or at least distinguishable from each other).

In some examples, the liquid has a third color and the second color is different than the third color. Thus, the absorbent material may not turn the same color as the liquid.

Color change may occur unevenly throughout the absorbent material. For example, the end of the absorbent material closest to the aerosol-generating material may change color first, and the end farthest from the aerosol-generating material may change color at a later time. A user may clean or replace the absorbent material when the entire absorbent material changes color. In other examples, the color change may occur substantially uniformly throughout the absorbent material. The user may clean or replace the absorbent material when the shade of color suggests doing so.

In one example, a color change occurs due to a change in pH value. Absorbent materials may therefore include chemical indicators such as dyes to provide a visual indication. Thus, in one example, the absorbent material changes color as a result of the pH value of the liquid.

In another example, a change in color occurs due to a change in temperature. Absorbent materials may therefore change color due to exposure to heat, such as the heat of a liquid.

In one example, the absorbent material includes a capsule containing a colored indicator inside a shell, the shell configured to break down and release the colored indicator to provide a visual indication. The shell may therefore degrade over time. In one example, the shell is dissolvable and dissolves due to exposure to liquid. A colored indicator, such as a dye, can then leak out of the capsule when the shell dissolves. In one example, the shell dissolves due to the presence of water or glycerol in the liquid. The shell preferably dissolves due to the presence of glycerol rather than water to ensure that the shell does not decompose outside the device and/or during non-use due to moisture in the air. In another example, the shell decomposes due to chemical reaction with one or more chemicals in the liquid. In a further example, the shell decomposes due to exposure to heat inside the device. In a particular example, there are multiple capsules, each containing a colored indicator inside a shell, each shell configured to degrade at different times. For example, a first capsule can release a first color chemical indicator after one heating session and a second capsule can release a second chemical indicator after another heating session. Each capsule may have a different shell thickness such that the shells degrade at different times.

In one example, the first portion of absorbent material is configured to provide a visual indication to indicate that the absorbent material is ready for replacement or cleaning. The second portion of absorbent material may provide a different visual indication or no visual indication.

In some examples, the first portion may be configured to change from a first color to a second color, the first color and the second color being different (or at least distinguishable from each other). possible). The liquid may have a third color and the second portion may be configured to change from the fourth color to the third color. Thus, in some examples, the first portion is configured to change color to be different than the color of the liquid, and the second portion is only naturally colored by the liquid, so that the second portion is only naturally colored by the liquid. It does not change to the same color as part 1.

In certain examples, the first portion is positioned at a first end of the absorbent material, the second portion is positioned at a second end of the absorbent material, and the first end comprises: The end furthest from the aerosol-generating material (ie, the distal end of the absorbent material) and the second end is the end closest to the aerosol-generating material (ie, the proximal end). This can be useful as it indicates that the liquid has penetrated the entire length of the absorbent material and is therefore ready for cleaning or replacement.

In some examples, one or more chemical indicators or dyes are Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). For example, the dyes can be food acceptable and optionally food grade materials. Chemical indicators are therefore non-toxic and safe to ingest. This is useful as the indicator may be heated and aerosolized and thus inhaled or ingested by the user.

In one example, the visual indication includes the appearance of a particular pattern. For example, one or more markings or indicia may appear when the absorbent material is ready for replacement or cleaning. In some examples, the pattern changes from the first pattern to the second pattern when the absorbent material is ready for replacement or cleaning. The appearance of a particular pattern may also include color variations.

In some examples, the visual indication is visible from outside the device, such as through a window or opening in the outer cover of the device. In another example, the visual indication can be seen upon opening the cover.

According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an absorbent member for absorbing liquid within an aerosol delivery device, the absorbent member comprising an absorbent material supported by a substrate, the absorbent member comprising: It is configured to be at least partially received in a chamber or door of the aerosol delivery device adjacent the aerosol-generating material.

In one example, the absorbent material may be at least partially received in the chamber and the substrate may be at least partially positioned within a recess in the cover of the aerosol delivery device. In another example, the absorbent material and the substrate may both be at least partially disposed within the recess of the cover of the aerosol delivery device. In another example, the absorbent material and substrate may both be at least partially received in the chamber.

The absorbent material may comprise any of the features described in relation to the first aspect.

In one example, the absorbent material and substrate both include through holes for air to pass through the absorbent member. The substrate may be hydrophobic.

According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, an aerosol delivery device is provided and a hydrophobic material, such as a hydrophobic layer, disposed within the housing to substantially prevent liquid from leaking out of the aerosol delivery device. including. Therefore, instead of or in addition to absorbent materials, the device has hydrophobic materials to prevent liquids from leaking out of the device. Hydrophobic materials provide a liquid impermeable layer that substantially prevents liquids from leaking out of the device. Hydrophobic materials therefore form a liquid barrier inside the device. A hydrophobic material can be, for example, a membrane. In some examples, the device may include a cover or door, the hydrophobic material substantially preventing liquid from leaking past the cover when the cover is placed in the first/closed position. may be configured to Preventing liquid leakage may include reducing or eliminating liquid leakage.

A hydrophobic material may be placed closer to the second opening than to the first opening. An aerosol is produced by heating the aerosol-generating material and is drawn through the chamber toward the first opening when a user inhales against the device. Accordingly, a hydrophobic material may be placed upstream of the aerosol flow path. A hydrophobic material is therefore placed near the distal end of the device to collect liquid flowing towards the distal end of the device. In other words, the chamber can define a first section for receiving the aerosol-generating material. The first section can be, for example, a heating section. A hydrophobic material may be disposed on the device between the first section and the second opening or cover.

A hydrophobic material can act as a barrier over which liquids can pool. When the user opens the cover, liquid can flow out of the hydrophobic material.

The chamber may have a first section for receiving the aerosol-generating material and a second section for receiving the hydrophobic material. Thus, the hydrophobic material may be disposed at least partially inside the chamber.

At least a portion of the hydrophobic material may be disposed between the cover and the second end/opening. That is, at least some of the hydrophobic material may not be located inside the chamber. The hydrophobic material may, for example, be at least partially disposed in the inner recess of the cover or may be disposed on the outer surface of the cover.

As mentioned, the cover may comprise a recess and the hydrophobic material may be at least partially disposed in the recess. Recesses in the interior of the cover can allow liquid to flow out of the hydrophobic material more easily. For example, the cover can be opened and the liquid (which may have accumulated on top of the hydrophobic material) is allowed to flow out of the device. Additionally, by placing a hydrophobic material on the cover, liquid can be collected farther from the heater, keeping the inside of the device/chamber cleaner.

During use, the hydrophobic material may be positioned at least partially between the aerosol-generating material and the cover. That is, the hydrophobic material and the aerosol-generating material may be co-located inside the device. For example, the aerosol-generating material may be placed inside the first section of the chamber and the hydrophobic material may be placed in the second section of the chamber, or in a recess in the cover. may be This means that liquid is substantially prevented from leaking when the device is in use (ie during a heating session).

The cover may define one or more apertures for air to pass through, and a hydrophobic material is disposed inside the housing to prevent liquid from passing through the one or more apertures. There is something. Apertures are sometimes known as air inlets. For example, the hydrophobic material may be gas permeable and is arranged to cover one or more apertures. One or more apertures may be formed in the cover, for example.

As mentioned, the cover may comprise a recess, and the recess may comprise a base and one or more sidewalls extending from the base. The hydrophobic material can have a first surface area and the base can have a second surface area, the first surface area being greater than the second surface area. Thus, when the hydrophobic material is received in the recess, the hydrophobic material may extend at least partially up to the sidewall(s) to form a receptacle or reservoir for collecting liquid. . In one example, the hydrophobic material includes an adhesive layer for adhering the hydrophobic material to the base. This prevents the hydrophobic material from coming loose when the device is inverted.

Hydrophobic materials may include polyethylene terephthalate (PET). PET is lightweight, flexible, inexpensive, and has a high melting point (to avoid deformation of the hydrophobic material during heating sessions).

The chamber may include a barrier to separate the aerosol-generating material from the hydrophobic material. The barrier can be as discussed above in combination with an absorbent material.

The chamber may define a first section for receiving the aerosol-generating material and a second section for receiving the hydrophobic material, the first section being more advanced than the second section. 1 is located near the opening.

In some examples, the device further includes absorbent/absorbent members/materials. In certain examples, the absorbent material is positioned closer to the first opening than the hydrophobic material (ie, the absorbent material is positioned between the hydrophobic material and the aerosol-generating material). A hydrophobic material can therefore stop any liquid that seeps through the absorbent material. In an alternative example, the hydrophobic material is positioned closer to the first opening than the absorbent material (ie, the hydrophobic material is positioned between the absorbent material and the aerosol-generating material). A hydrophobic material and an absorbent material may be disposed in the recess of the cover. Alternatively, one of the hydrophobic material and the absorbent material may be placed in a recess in the cover. Preferably, the absorbent material is at least partially arranged inside the chamber and the hydrophobic material is arranged inside the recess of the cover. The absorbent material may comprise any of the features described in relation to the first or second aspect.

In some examples, at least a portion of the chamber is hydrophobic or includes a hydrophobic coating to promote liquid flow toward the hydrophobic material.

A fourth aspect of the present disclosure defines an aerosol delivery device with a removable/removable cover/door. The cover is thus configured to receive liquid from the chamber and is removable to allow the collected liquid to be disposed of. A removable cover can allow the user to more easily dispose of liquids and/or absorbent/hydrophobic materials (if present). The removable nature of the cover can also allow the cover to be cleaned, which is particularly useful if the device itself is not water resistant.

In some examples, the cover includes a liquid reservoir for receiving liquid. In some examples, the liquid reservoir holds liquid. The cover may be configured to (i) allow liquid to flow into the reservoir and (ii) substantially restrict liquid from flowing out of the reservoir. For example, the cover may include a one-way valve to stop liquid from leaking out of the reservoir. Alternatively, the reservoir may have an opening shaped to allow liquid to enter but restrict liquid from exiting.

In some examples, the cover includes absorbent material. For example, the cover may comprise a recess and the absorbent material is at least partially disposed in the recess. In some examples, the absorbent material is removably adhered to the cover. The user can remove the absorbent material and either clean or dispose of the absorbent material before placing the clean absorbent material back on the cover and adhering it. In a further example, the absorbent material is not removable/removable from the cover. The door is removable so that the absorbent material can be cleaned.

In some examples, the cover includes a hydrophobic material. For example, the cover may comprise a recess and the hydrophobic material is at least partially disposed in the recess. In some examples, the hydrophobic material is removably adhered to the cover. The user can remove the hydrophobic material and either clean or dispose of it before gluing clean hydrophobic material back onto the cover.

In some examples, at least a portion of the chamber is hydrophobic or includes a hydrophobic coating to facilitate liquid flow toward the cover.

The device of the fourth aspect may comprise any of the features described in relation to the first, second or third aspect.

According to another aspect, an aerosol delivery device is provided, defining a first opening in a first end of the housing for receiving an aerosol-generating material therethrough and a second opening in a second end of the housing. A housing is provided defined at the end. The device further comprises a chamber positioned between the second opening and the first opening, at least a portion of the chamber configured to receive the aerosol-generating material. The device further comprises at least one heater disposed within the housing and configured to heat the aerosol-generating material received within the chamber, thereby generating an aerosol. The device further comprises a brush configured to receive and retain residue from the chamber. In use, the aerosol is drawn along the flow path through the chamber toward the first opening, and the brush is at least partially upstream of the portion of the chamber configured to receive the aerosol-generating material. placed.

In some examples, the brush receives and retains liquid residue from the chamber. In another example, the brush receives and retains solid residue from the chamber. The brush can be removed from the device and cleaned or disposed of. The brush may be completely disposed in the chamber or partially disposed in the chamber. In some examples, the cover/door includes a recess and the brush is at least partially disposed in the recess.

In one example, the brush includes absorbent material. The brush can therefore act as an absorbent member and absorb/retain liquid.

According to another aspect of the invention, a system includes an aerosol-generating device as discussed above and an aerosol-generating material that is or can be contained in the chamber. In some examples, the aerosol-generating material comprises a portion of an aerosol-generating article.

FIG. 1 shows an example of an aerosol delivery device 100 for generating an aerosol from an aerosol-generating medium/material. In broad gist, the device 100 is used to heat a replaceable article 110 containing an aerosol-generating medium to generate an aerosol or other inhalable medium for inhalation by a user of the device 100. good too. The device is a tobacco heating device, also known as a non-combustion heating device.

Device 100 includes a housing 102 (defined at least partially by an outer cover) that encloses and encloses various components of device 100 . The device 100 or housing 102 has a first opening 104 at one end through which an article 110 can be inserted for heating by the heating assembly. In use, the article 110 can be wholly or partially inserted into the heating chamber where it can be heated by one or more components of the heater/heater assembly.

The device 100 of this example includes a first end member 106 with a lid 108 movable relative to the first end member 106 to close the first opening 104 when the item 110 is not in place. equip. Although lid 108 is shown in an open configuration in FIG. 1, lid 108 can transition to a closed configuration. For example, a user can cause lid 108 to slide in the direction of arrow "A."

Device 100 may also include user-operable control elements 112 such as buttons or switches that operate device 100 when pressed. For example, a user can turn on device 100 by operating switch 112 .

Device 100 may also include electrical components such as sockets/ports 114 that can receive cables for charging the device 100's battery. For example, socket 114 can be a charging port, such as a USB charging port.

FIG. 2 shows the device 100 of FIG. 1 with the outer cover 102 removed and the item 110 absent. Device 100 defines a longitudinal axis 134 .

As shown in FIG. 2, first end member 106 is positioned at one end of device 100 and second end member 116 is positioned at the opposite end of device 100 . First and second end members 106 , 116 together at least partially define an end face of device 100 . For example, the bottom surface of second end member 116 at least partially defines the bottom surface of device 100 . In this example, lid 108 also defines part of the top surface of device 100 . First and second end members 106 , 116 are part of the device housing such that the housing defines first opening 104 .

The end of the device 100 closest to the first opening 104 is sometimes known as the proximal end (or oral end) of the device 100 because, during use, it because it is closest to the mouth. During use, a user inserts article 110 into first opening 104 and operates user control 112 to initiate heating of the aerosol-generating material and inhale the aerosol generated by the device. This causes the aerosol to flow along the flow path through device 100 towards the proximal end of device 100 .

The other end of the device furthest from the first opening 104 is sometimes known as the distal end of the device 100 because, during use, it is furthest from the user's mouth. This is because it is the edge. As the user inhales the aerosol produced by the device, the aerosol flows away from the distal end of device 100 .

Device 100 further comprises power supply 118 . Power source 118 can be, for example, a battery, such as a rechargeable battery or a non-rechargeable battery. A battery, electrically coupled to the heating assembly, provides power and heating of the aerosol-generating material as needed under the control of a controller (not shown). In this example, the batteries are connected to a central support 120 that maintains the batteries 118 in place.

The device further comprises at least one electronic module 122 . Electronic module 122 may comprise, for example, a printed circuit board (PCB). PCB 122 may support at least one controller, such as a processor, and memory. PCB 122 may also include one or more electrical tracks for electrically connecting the various electronic components of device 100 together. For example, battery terminals may be electrically connected to PCB 122 such that power may be distributed throughout device 100 . Socket 114 may be electrically coupled to the battery via electrical tracks.

In example device 100, the heating assembly is an induction heating assembly and includes various components for heating the aerosol-generating material of article 110 via an induction heating process. Induction heating is the process of heating an electrical conductor (such as a susceptor) by electromagnetic induction. An induction heating assembly may comprise an inductive element, eg, one or more induction coils, and a device for passing a varying current, such as alternating current, through the inductive element. A changing current in the inductive element produces a changing magnetic field. A changing magnetic field penetrates a susceptor properly positioned relative to the inductive element and creates eddy currents inside the susceptor. The susceptor has an electrical resistance to eddy currents, so the flow of eddy currents against this resistance causes the susceptor to heat up by Joule heating. In the case where the susceptor contains a ferromagnetic material such as iron, nickel or cobalt, heat is changed by the magnetic hysteresis losses of the susceptor, i.e. the magnetic dipoles of the magnetic material as a result of their alignment with the changing magnetic field. Orientation may also be generated. In induction heating, for example, heat is generated inside the susceptor, allowing rapid heating compared to heating by conduction. Furthermore, physical contact does not exist between the induction heater and the susceptor, allowing for enhanced flexibility in construction and application.

The induction heating assembly of example device 100 comprises a susceptor structure 132 (referred to herein as the “susceptor”), a first inductor coil 124 and a second inductor coil 126 . The first and second inductor coils 124, 126 are made from an electrically conductive material. In this example, the first and second inductor coils 124,126 are made from multi-strand wire, such as litz wire/cable, which is wound in a generally helical fashion to provide the inductor coils 124,126. Litz wire includes multiple strands of wire that are each insulated and twisted together to form a single wire. Litz wire is designed to reduce skin effect losses in conductors. In the example device 100, the first and second inductor coils 124, 126 are made from copper litz wire having a rectangular cross-section. In other examples, litz wire may have cross-sections of other shapes.

A first inductor coil 124 is configured to generate a first varying magnetic field for heating a first section of the susceptor 132 and a second inductor coil 126 is configured to heat a second section of the susceptor 132 . It is configured to generate a second varying magnetic field for heating the section. In this example, first inductor coil 124 is adjacent to second inductor coil 126 in a direction parallel to longitudinal axis 134 of device 100 . Ends 130 of the first and second inductor coils 124 , 126 can be coupled to the PCB 122 .

It will be appreciated that the first and second inductor coils 124, 126 can have at least one characteristic that differs from each other in some examples. For example, first inductor coil 124 can have at least one characteristic different from second inductor coil 126 . More specifically, in one example, first inductor coil 124 may have a different inductance value than second inductor coil 126 . 2, the first and second inductor coils 124, 126 are different such that the first inductor coil 124 is wound over a smaller section of the susceptor 132 than the second inductor coil 126. consists of length. Thus, the first inductor coil 124 may include a different number of turns than the second inductor coil 126 (assuming the spacing between individual turns is substantially the same). In yet another example, first inductor coil 124 may be made from a different material than second inductor coil 126 . In some examples, the first and second inductor coils 124, 126 may be substantially the same.

The susceptor 132 in this example is hollow and thus defines at least a portion of a chamber within which the aerosol-generating material is received. For example, article 110 can be inserted into susceptor 132 . In this example, the susceptor 120 is tubular and has a circular cross-section.

The susceptor 132 and the first and second inductor coils 124, 126 may form at least part of a heater/heater assembly. The heated susceptor 132 thus heats the aerosol-generating material received within the housing/device.

Device 100 of FIG. 2 further comprises insulating member 128 that is generally tubular and may at least partially surround susceptor 132 . Insulating member 128 may be constructed from any insulating material such as, for example, plastic. In this particular example, the insulating member is constructed from polyetheretherketone (PEEK). Insulation member 128 may help insulate the various components of device 100 from heat generated by susceptor 132 .

The insulating member 128 can also fully or partially support the first and second inductor coils 124,126. For example, as shown in FIG. 2 , first and second inductor coils 124 , 126 are arranged around insulating member 128 and contact the radially outer surface of insulating member 128 . In some examples, the insulating member 128 does not abut the first and second inductor coils 124,126. For example, a small gap may exist between the outer surface of the insulating member 128 and the inner surfaces of the first and second inductor coils 124,126.

In a particular example, susceptor 132 , insulating member 128 , and first and second inductor coils 124 , 126 are coaxial about the central longitudinal axis of susceptor 132 .

FIG. 3 shows a side view of device 100 in partial cross section. An outer cover 102 is present in this example.

Device 100 further comprises a support 136 that engages one end of susceptor 132 to maintain susceptor 132 in place. A support 136 is coupled to the second end member 116 . Support 136 is sometimes known as a hollow member, hollow tube, or sweep tube.

The device may also include a second printed circuit board 138 associated internally with the control element 112 .

The device 100 further comprises a cover, in this example a door 140 and a spring 142 positioned towards the distal end of the device 100 . Spring 142 allows door 140 to be opened to provide access to a second opening formed in the housing. A second opening may be defined by an end of the support 136, for example. Through the second opening, a user can access the chamber and clean the susceptor 132 and/or support 136 . Device 100 or housing 102 therefore defines a second opening at the second end of the device/housing. Similarly, device 100 or housing 102 defines a first opening 104 at a first end of the device/housing. The first and second ends may oppose each other. A chamber or channel is formed between the door 140 and the first opening 104 . For example, a chamber/channel can be at least partially defined by support 136 and susceptor 132 . Door 140 is movable between two positions. In the first position the second opening is covered by door 140 and in the second position the second opening is not covered by door 140 .

Device 100 further comprises an expansion chamber 144 extending away from the proximal end of susceptor 132 and toward first opening 104 of the device. Located at least partially within the expansion chamber 144 is a retaining clip 146 that abuts and maintains the item 110 when received within the device 100 . Expansion chamber 144 is connected to end member 106 . Expansion chamber 144 may define at least a portion of the chamber/channel.

FIG. 4 is an exploded view of the device 100 of FIG. 1 with the outer cover 102 omitted.

FIG. 5A shows a cross section of part of the device 100 of FIG. FIG. 5B is shown in FIG. 5A shows an enlarged view of the area of 5A. Fig. 5A and Figs. 5B shows article 110 received inside susceptor 132 , article 110 being sized such that the outer surface of article 110 abuts the inner surface of susceptor 132 . Article 110 in this example includes aerosol-generating material 110a. Aerosol-generating material 110 a is disposed inside susceptor 132 . Article 110 may also include other components such as filters, packaging materials and/or cooling structures.

Fig. 5B shows that the outer surface of susceptor 132 is separated from the inner surfaces of inductor coils 124 , 126 by a distance 150 measured in a direction perpendicular to longitudinal axis 158 of susceptor 132 . In one particular example, distance 150 is between about 3 mm and 4 mm, between about 3 mm and 3.5 mm, or about 3.25 mm.

Fig. 5B further shows that the outer surface of the insulating member 128 is separated from the inner surfaces of the inductor coils 124, 126 by a distance 152 measured in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 158 of the susceptor 132. . In one particular example, distance 152 is approximately 0.05 mm. In another example, distance 152 is substantially 0 mm so inductor coils 124 , 126 abut and contact insulating member 128 .

In one example, the susceptor 132 has a wall thickness 154 of approximately 0.025 mm to 1 mm, or approximately 0.05 mm.

In one example, the susceptor 132 has a length of approximately 40 mm to 60 mm, approximately 40 mm to 45 mm, or approximately 44.5 mm.

In one example, insulating member 128 has a wall thickness 156 of about 0.25 mm to 2 mm, 0.25 mm to 1 mm, or about 0.5 mm.

6A shows the distal/bottom end of device 100. FIG. In FIG. 6A, door 140 is placed in a first position in which a second opening to the chamber is closed. One or more apertures 160 form an air inlet into the door interior. Air can be drawn into the chamber through aperture 160 and passed through device 100 toward first opening 104 .

FIG. 6B shows the distal/bottom end of device 100 with door 140 omitted. The bottom end of spring 142 and support 136 are visible. The end of support 136 and/or second end member 116 defines a second opening 162 . Support 136 and susceptor 132 can be cleaned through second opening 162 . For example, a cleaning tool can be introduced into the chamber.

FIG. 7 shows a perspective view of the aerosol delivery device with certain components of the heating assembly omitted. For example, the second inductor coil 126 has been omitted. Susceptor 132 and support 136 at least partially define a chamber through which air and aerosol can flow. Susceptor 132 may form a first section of the chamber that receives the aerosol-generating material. A support 136 may support one end of the susceptor 132 and form a second section of the chamber.

It has been found that when an article containing an aerosol-generating material is heated inside the chamber of device 100, the aerosol can cool and condense inside the device. For example, the aerosol can condense on the inner surface of support 136, which is cooler than the susceptor. Condensation may also occur on the susceptor 132 as it cools after use or when different portions of the susceptor are heated to different temperatures. This condensate or liquid may run down the inside of the chamber and accumulate at the bottom of the device. For example, liquid may accumulate on door 140 . The liquid may then leak through an aperture 160 formed in the door 140 or leak around the perimeter of the door. Additionally, liquid may leak when the door 140 is opened.

It can be useful to absorb this liquid before it can leak out of the device. Thus, in some examples, one or more absorbent materials may be placed inside the device 100 to absorb any liquid that forms or collects inside the chamber. The absorbent material can be removable from the device, so that it can be cleaned and replaced inside the device, or it can be disposed of and replaced with new absorbent material. FIGS. 8-13 and 17 show various absorbent members and absorbent materials of different shapes and configurations, which are used to prevent liquid from leaking out of the device 100. can be used in

In another example, it may be useful to collect liquid to prevent it from leaking out of device 100 over door 140 . Thus, in some examples, one or more hydrophobic layers or hydrophobic materials in the form of hydrophobic membranes may be placed inside the device 100 to prevent liquids from leaking out. . A hydrophobic layer is a layer that is impermeable to liquids. Liquid can then accumulate on the hydrophobic layer. 14-17 show a hydrophobic layer, which can be used to prevent liquids from leaking out of device 100. FIG.

FIG. 8 shows a cross-sectional view of a first absorbent member 164 containing absorbent material and positioned inside the chamber of the aerosol delivery device. Specifically, the absorbent member 164 is positioned within the support 136 and positioned toward the end of the support 136 adjacent the second opening. Accordingly, the absorbent member 164 is positioned closer to the second openings 162 than to the first openings 104 . When the aerosol-generating material is received in a chamber (such as susceptor 132) and door 140 is in the first position, absorbent member 164 is positioned within the chamber between door 140 and the aerosol-generating material. .

In this example, the absorbent member 164 is made from cellulose acetate and is therefore capable of absorbing and retaining liquids in contact with the absorbent member 164 . In other examples, absorbent member 164 is made from other absorbent materials such as paper or foam.

FIG. 9 shows a perspective view of absorbent member 164 . The absorbent member is tubular, generally cylindrical, and has a length between 5 mm and 20 mm, eg about 10 mm. The absorbent member 164 therefore has a circular cross-sectional shape. In FIG. 8, absorbent members 164 are positioned in the section of the chamber defined by support 136 . The support 136 is also tubular and has a circular cross-sectional shape corresponding to that of the absorbent member 164 . The inner diameter of the support 136 is substantially the same as the outer diameter 166 of the absorbent member 164 to provide a tight fit, such as an interference fit, within the support to prevent leakage around the outer surface of the absorbent member. Decrease. For example, the diameter of the absorbent member may be between 4mm and 5mm, preferably between 4.4mm and 4.6mm, with the corresponding inner diameter of the support. This interference fit may help keep the absorbent member 164 in place. The inner diameter of the support 136 can be slightly smaller than the outer diameter 166 of the absorbent member 164 so that the absorbent member is compressed when received in the chamber. The ability to ensure this compressed state means that the absorbent member 164 at all locations around the absorbent member 164 abuts against the inner surface of the chamber, substantially preventing liquid from flowing around the absorbent member 164. It is to be.

In the example of FIGS. 8 and 9, absorbent member 164 is positioned near one or more of apertures 160 . The absorbent member 164 is gas permeable thus allowing air to flow through the absorbent member 164 . For example, air may be drawn through apertures 160 and through absorbent member 164 toward aerosol-generating material disposed further along the chamber. In this example, the absorbent member 164 is gas permeable, for example, absorbency can be provided by a material with voids that allow gas flow, such as a foam material. In addition, through holes 168 extend through the absorbent member to provide a reduced pressure drop flow path. The absorbent member 164 can therefore be in the form of a hollow tube, with the outer material of the absorbent member abutting the inner surface of the chamber to receive liquid as it flows down the inside of the inner surface. In this example, the material from which the absorbent member 164 is made is also gas permeable. Gas molecules can therefore flow through the material of the absorbent member 164 as well as through the through-holes 168 . The through-holes 168 can help reduce the pressure drop across the chamber so that the user does not have to aspirate the device 100 with as much force. In some examples, through holes 168 may be omitted.

FIG. 10 shows a cross-sectional view of a secondary absorbent member 174 , which comprises absorbent material and is positioned within recess 170 of door 140 . Liquid may run down the inside of the chamber and drip through the second opening 162 into the absorbent member 174 . The absorbent member 174 thus stops liquid from leaking out of the device 100 (ie, stops liquid from leaking past the door 140).

As in the example of FIG. 8, absorbent member 174 is positioned closer to second opening 162 than to first opening 104 . The absorbent member 164 is positioned between the door 140 and the aerosol-generating material when the aerosol-generating material is received in the chamber (eg, the susceptor 132) and the door 140 is in the first position.

In some examples, the absorbent member 174 may extend from the recess 170 and thus be positioned in both the recess 170 and the chamber when the door 140 is in the first/closed position.

In this example, the recess comprises a base 170a and one or more sidewalls 170b extending away from the base and toward the second opening 162. As shown in FIG. One or more apertures 160 are formed at the base of the recess 170 such that an absorbent member 174 covers the one or more apertures 160 . In other examples, one or more apertures 160 may be formed in door 140 but not at the base of recess 170 .

In this example, the absorbent member 174 is made from foam and is therefore capable of absorbing and retaining liquids in contact with the absorbent member 174 . The absorbent member 174 may be made from paper or other absorbent material such as cellulose acetate.

In some examples, door 140 is removable/removable from the device. For example, door 140 may include one or more fasteners (not shown) to allow door 140 to connect to a device such as second end member 116 . A user can remove door 140 to allow for easier cleaning and replacement of absorbent member 174 . The door can be completely removable from the device.

FIG. 11 shows a perspective view of absorbent member 174 . The absorbent member can be disc-shaped and generally cylindrical. The absorbent member has a height of about 2.5 mm and a diameter of about 8 mm. The absorbent member 174 therefore has a circular cross-sectional shape. In FIG. 10, absorbent member 174 is positioned in recess 170 . The recess 170 is also disc-shaped and has a circular cross-sectional shape corresponding to the cross-sectional shape of the absorbent member 174 . The inner diameter of the recess 170 is substantially the same as the outer diameter 176 of the absorbent member 174 to provide a tight fit. For example, an interference fit may help keep the absorbent member 174 in place when the door is opened. The inner diameter of the recess 170 can be slightly smaller than the outer diameter 176 of the absorbent member 174 so that the absorbent member is compressed when received in the chamber. This compressed state can be ensured because the absorbent member 174 abuts one or more sidewalls 170b of the recess 170 at all locations around the absorbent member 174 so that liquid can flow around the absorbent member 174. is to reduce the possibility of flowing into

In the example of FIGS. 10 and 11, absorbent member 174 covers one or more of apertures 160 . The absorbent member 174 is gas permeable thus allowing air to flow through the absorbent member 174 . For example, air may be drawn through apertures 160 and through absorbent member 174 toward an aerosol-generating material disposed in the chamber. In this example, the absorbent member 174 is gas permeable because it is made from a material that is gas permeable. In some examples, the absorbent member 174 also includes through holes through which air can flow.

In other examples, the absorbent member can be recessed in the door and positioned so as not to obstruct the fluid flow path. For example, rather than covering a door aperture, it may be placed inside the aperture. While still upstream of the fluid flow path, the fluid flow path can bypass the absorbent member and any pressure drop associated with the absorbent member.

FIG. 12 shows a perspective view of a third absorbent member 184 comprising absorbent material 184a supported by a substrate 184b. Substrate 184b in this example is stiffer than absorbent material 184a. In this example, absorbent material 184a would be placed in a chamber of device 100. FIG. For example, absorbent material 184 a may be received within support 136 . Substrate 184b may be received in a recess formed in the door or may be received in a wider portion of the chamber. In a particular example, the substrate 184b is received in a recess in the door and the absorbent material 184a is received in the chamber when the door is moved to the first/closed position. Accordingly, the absorbent member 184 can extend from the recess and thus be located in both the recess and the chamber when the door 140 is in the first/closed position.

The substrate in this example includes one or more engagement features in the form of protrusions 182 for engaging one or more corresponding engagement features on the door or housing. For example, each projection 182 may be received in a channel/notch formed in one or more sidewalls of the door recess. The one or more engagement features allow the absorbent member 184 to be secured in place so that the absorbent member 184 can also move around inside the device when the door 140 is opened. , and will not fall out of the device.

In this example, the absorbent material 184a is paper and is therefore capable of absorbing and retaining liquids in contact with the absorbent member 184. FIG. Absorbent material 184 may be foam or other absorbent material such as cellulose acetate. Substrate 184b may be made of a plastic such as PEEK, and absorber 184a may be adhered to substrate 184b.

The absorbent material 184a is tubular and generally cylindrical. The absorbent material 184a therefore has a circular cross-sectional shape. Absorbent material 184a can be disposed in the section of the chamber defined by support 136. As shown in FIG. The support 136 is also tubular and has a circular cross-sectional shape corresponding to the cross-sectional shape of the absorbent material 184a. The inner diameter of the support 136 is substantially the same as the outer diameter 186 of the absorbent material 184a to provide a tight fit and reduce leakage. This interference fit may also help keep the absorbent member 184 in place (which may be useful if the absorbent member 184 does not have any engagement features). Substrate 184b is disc-shaped and generally cylindrical. Substrate 184b therefore has a circular cross-sectional shape. The substrate 184b may be placed in a recess in the door 140, and thus the recess may also be disc-shaped and have a circular cross-sectional shape corresponding to the cross-sectional shape of the substrate 184b. The inner diameter of the recess can be substantially the same as the outer diameter 188 of the substrate 184b to provide a tight fit (which can be useful if the absorbent member 184 does not have any engagement features).

The absorbent member 184 may be arranged to cover one or more of the apertures 160 of the door 140 . The absorbent member 184 may be gas permeable thus allowing air to flow through the absorbent member 184 . In this example, absorbent member 184 also has through holes 180 that extend through the absorbent member. Through holes 180 extend through absorbent portion 184a and substrate 184b to provide flow paths through both absorbent material 184a and substrate 184b. In this example, the absorbent material is also gas permeable. The material from which substrate 184b is made may not be gas permeable.

Figure 13 shows a perspective view of a fourth absorbent member 194 comprising absorbent material supported by a substrate 194b. The absorbent material includes a first portion 194a and a second portion 194c. The first portion 194a and the second portion 194c may differ from each other. For example, they may have different dimensions, or they may comprise different materials, or they may comprise the same materials but with different absorbencies.

The substrate 194b in this example is stiffer than the absorber.

In this example, the first portion 194 a of the absorber would be placed in the chamber of device 100 . For example, first portion 194 a may be received within support 136 . Substrate 194b may be received in a recess formed in door 140 . A second portion 194c of absorbent material may be positioned between the chamber and a recess in the door 140 . The second portion 194c can therefore absorb liquid that escapes the chamber. Accordingly, the absorbent member 194 can extend from the recess and thus be located in both the recess and the chamber when the door 140 is in the first/closed position.

The substrate in this example includes one or more engagement features in the form of protrusions 192 for engaging one or more corresponding engagement features on the door or housing.

In this example, the first portion 194a is made from cellulose acetate and the second portion 194c is made from foam or paper. Other materials can be used instead. In some examples, the first and second portions 194a, 194c are made from the same material. Substrate 194b may be made from a plastic such as PEEK, and the absorber may be adhered to substrate 194b.

The first portion 194a is tubular and generally cylindrical. The first portion 194a therefore has a circular cross-sectional shape. The first portion 194a can be positioned in the section of the chamber defined by the support 136. As shown in FIG. The support 136 can also be tubular and has a circular cross-sectional shape corresponding to the cross-sectional shape of the first portion 194a. The inner diameter of the support 136 is substantially the same as the outer diameter 196 of the first portion 194a to provide a tight fit and reduce leakage. An interference fit may also help maintain the absorbent member 194 in place (which may be useful if the absorbent member 194 does not have any engagement features).

The second portion 194c is disc-shaped and generally cylindrical. The second portion 194c therefore has a circular cross-sectional shape. A second portion 194 c may be positioned between an end of support 136 and a recess in door 140 . In some examples, the cross-sectional shape of second portion 194c may not need to correspond to the cross-sectional shape of any component of the device. In another example, the second portion 194c may be received in a wider bottom section of a chamber, such as a wider section of the support 136, and the cross-sectional shape of the second portion 194c may be similar to that of the second portion 194c. may correspond to the cross-sectional shape of the section of the chamber/support that receives the .

Substrate 194b is disc-shaped and generally cylindrical. Substrate 194b therefore has a circular cross-sectional shape. The substrate 194b can be placed in a recess in the door 140, so the recess can also be disc-shaped and have a circular cross-sectional shape corresponding to the cross-sectional shape of the substrate 194b. The inner diameter of the recess is substantially the same as the outer diameter 198 of the substrate 194b, which can provide a "snap" fit (which can be useful if the absorbent member 194 does not have any engagement features).

The absorbent member 194 may be arranged to cover one or more apertures 160 of the door 140 . The absorbent member 194 may be gas permeable thus allowing air to flow through the absorbent member 194 . A through hole 190 extends through the absorber and substrate 194b to provide a flow path through both absorber and substrate 194b. In this example, the material from which the absorber is made is also gas permeable. In other examples, the material from which substrate 194b is made is not gas permeable.

In the examples of Figures 8, 9, 12 and 13 discussed above, the absorbent member is at least partially tubular. In other examples, the absorbent member may be generally solid and cylindrical. In other words, the absorbent member can take the form of a cylindrical "plug". The absorbent members in these examples are gas permeable to provide a fluid flow path through the absorbent member. The dimensions can be similar to the example of FIG. 9, with a length of about 5 mm to 20 mm and a diameter of about 4 mm to 5 mm. In one configuration, the absorbent member may be a cylinder with a diameter of 4.4mm to 4.6mm and a length of about 10mm.

When the absorbent member is solid, it creates a large pressure drop in the fluid flow path due to increased resistance across the absorbent member. Therefore, there is a balance of pressure drop against effective absorption in both material composition and overall dimensions. For example, a particular absorbent capacity or internal structure may provide a low pressure drop, but reduce fluid retention of the absorbent member. Similarly, a longer absorbent member will result in a greater pressure drop, but will have a greater volume to hold liquid before becoming saturated. It has been found that an absorbent member having a length of 5-15 mm, eg about 10 mm, provides a good balance of these properties.

In either FIG. 8 or FIG. 10, a hydrophobic layer may be placed inside the device to substantially prevent liquid from leaking out of the device past the door 140 . For example, a hydrophobic layer can be used in place of the absorbent members 164,174,184,194. In some instances, a hydrophobic layer is used in addition to the absorbent member to further reduce the likelihood of leakage.

FIG. 14 shows a perspective view of a hydrophobic layer 204 according to one example. Hydrophobic layer 204 is a liquid impermeable layer that can be placed inside the device. For example, the hydrophobic layer 204 may be placed inside the chamber or inside the door recess. The hydrophobic layer 204 thus forms a liquid barrier inside the device. When the hydrophobic layer 204 is placed in the chamber, it can substantially prevent liquid from passing through the second opening 162 . When the hydrophobic layer 204 is disposed within the recess of the door 140, it can substantially prevent liquids from passing over the door 140, eg, through one or more apertures formed in the door.

FIG. 15 is a schematic illustration of a portion of device 100 , with hydrophobic layer 204 positioned inside recess 170 of door 140 . At least a portion of the hydrophobic layer 204 is therefore positioned between the door 140 and the second end 162 . The door 140 is placed in the first position so that the second opening 162 is closed/covered by the door 140 .

Liquid 202 may run down the inside of the chamber (eg, down the inside of support 136 ) and drip through second opening 162 onto hydrophobic layer 204 . Hydrophobic layer 204 thus stops liquid 202 from leaking out of device 100 (ie, stops liquid from leaking past door 140). Hydrophobic layer 204 can act as a barrier in which liquid 202 can pool.

Hydrophobic layer 204 is positioned closer to second opening 162 than to first opening 104 . Hydrophobic layer 204 is disposed between door 140 and the aerosol-generating material when aerosol-generating material is received in the chamber (eg, susceptor 132) and door 140 is in the first position.

In some examples, the hydrophobic layer 204 may extend from the recess 170 and thus be disposed in both the recess 170 and the chamber when the door 140 is in the first/closed position.

10, the recess 170 includes a base 170a and one or more sidewalls 170b extending away from the base toward the second opening 162. As shown in FIG. One or more apertures 160 are formed in the base 170a of the recess 170 such that the hydrophobic layer 204 covers the one or more apertures 160. As shown in FIG. A hydrophobic layer 204 is therefore disposed inside the housing to prevent liquid 202 from passing through one or more apertures 160 . In some examples, the hydrophobic layer is gas permeable. In some examples, one or more apertures 160 may be formed in door 140 but not at the base of recess 170 .

Hydrophobic layer 204 may have a first surface area and base 170a may have a second surface area, the first surface area being greater than the second surface area. Thus, as shown in FIG. 15, when the hydrophobic layer 204 is received in the recess 170, the hydrophobic layer 204 can be applied to the sidewalls to form a receptacle or reservoir for collecting the liquid 202. extends partially to 170b.

In this example, the hydrophobic layer 204 is made from polyethylene terephthalate (PET). Hydrophobic layer 204 may be made of other hydrophobic materials in other examples.

FIG. 16 shows door 140 positioned in a second position such that second opening 162 is not covered by door 140 . When door 140 is opened, hydrophobic layer 204 is tilted and liquid 202 flows out of the hydrophobic layer and out of device 100 . Door 140 can then return to the first/closed position of FIG.

In some examples, the device comprises an absorbent/absorbent member in addition to the hydrophobic layer. For example, the hydrophobic layer may be positioned within the recess of the door 140 of FIG. 8 such that the absorbent member 164 is positioned closer to the first opening 104 than the hydrophobic layer. Alternatively, the hydrophobic layer may be at least partially disposed within the interior of the chamber, rather than within the recess of door 140 . In both of these examples, liquid can reach the hydrophobic layer only if it is able to move past the absorbent member 164 (i.e., the absorbent member separates the hydrophobic layer and the aerosol-generating material from each other). placed between).

In another example, the hydrophobic layer can be positioned within the recess 170 of the door 140 of FIG. 10 such that the hydrophobic layer is positioned closer to the first opening 104 than the absorbent member 174. be. A hydrophobic layer may, for example, cover the absorbent member 174 . Alternatively, the hydrophobic layer may be at least partially disposed within the interior of the chamber, rather than within the recess of door 140 . In both of these examples, liquid can reach the absorbent member 174 only if it is able to move past the hydrophobic layer (i.e., the hydrophobic layer separates the absorbent member and the aerosol-generating material from each other). placed between).

In another example, the hydrophobic layer and absorbent member 174 are placed inside the recess 170 of the door 140 of FIG. 10 such that the absorbent member 174 is positioned closer to the first opening 104 than the hydrophobic layer. may be placed. A hydrophobic layer may cover the base 170a of the recess 170, and the absorbent member 174 may, for example, be placed on top of the hydrophobic layer. Liquid can reach the hydrophobic layer only if it can move past the absorbent member 174 (i.e., the absorbent member is positioned between the hydrophobic layer and the aerosol-generating material). .

FIG. 17 shows absorbent member 206 disposed on hydrophobic layer 208 . The absorbent member 206 and hydrophobic layer 208 may have different shapes than shown. Absorbent member 206 may be adhered to hydrophobic layer 208 .

In examples that include absorbent materials, the absorbent materials may be modified to alter the user's sensory experience in addition to absorbing any condensate. For example, the absorbent member may be impregnated or otherwise impregnated with an aerosol modifier such as a flavorant. Such aerosol modifiers may be contained within an absorbent material using the absorbent material as a matrix for retaining the aerosol modifying material. The aerosol modifying material may be included in the manufacture of the absorbent material and sealed in the package to prevent evaporation prior to introduction into the aerosol delivery device. Alternatively or additionally, the aerosol modifying material is a container within or associated with the absorbent material that is designed to break, burst or disintegrate when the absorbent material is introduced into the aerosol delivery device. , thus delivering the aerosol modifying material into the absorbent material.

When an aerosol-modifying material is incorporated into an absorbent material, it may be desirable to increase the volume of the absorbent material, thus flavorants may be combined with any liquid absorbed without saturating the absorbent material. can exist. Some examples increase the diameter of a solid cylindrical absorbent member to do this. For example, the diameter can increase from about 4.4-4.6 mm to about 7-9 mm, eg, about 8.2 mm. Increasing the diameter has minimal impact on pressure drop in use, all other things being equal, it reduces pressure drop because there are more passageways through the absorbent material.

Aerosol modifiers are substances that can modify an aerosol during use. Drugs can modify aerosols to create physiological or sensory effects on the human body. Examples of aerosol modifiers are flavorants and sensates. Sensory stimulants produce organoleptic sensations that can be perceived via sensations such as cooling sensations and sour sensations.

Aerosol modifiers may be maintained in drug-releasing components such as capsules, threads, or beads. The component can be selectively activatable, such as by the user, to release the aerosol modifier.

As used herein, the terms "fragrance" and "flavoring agent" refer to materials that can be used to create a desired taste or aroma in products intended for adult consumers, where local regulations permit.

As used herein, the terms "fragrance" and "flavoring agent" refer to materials that can be used to create a desired taste or aroma in products intended for adult consumers, where local regulations permit. They include extracts (e.g. licorice, hydrangea, magnolia leaves, chamomile, fenugreek, cloves, menthol, Japanese mint, aniseed, cinnamon, herbs, wintergreen, cherries, berries, peaches, apples, Drambuie, bourbon, scotch, Whiskey, spearmint, peppermint, lavender, cardamom, celery, cascara, nutmeg, sandalwood, bergamot, geranium, honey essence, rose oil, vanilla, lemon oil, orange oil, cassia, caraway, cognac, jasmine, ylang-ylang, sage, fennel, bell pepper, ginger, anise, coriander, coffee or mint oil from any species of the genus Mentha), flavor enhancer, bitter receptor site blocker, sensory receptor site activator or stimulant, sugar and/or sugar substitutes (e.g., sucralose, acesulfame potassium, aspartame, saccharin, cyclamate, lactose, sucrose, glucose, fructose, sorbitol, or mannitol) and charcoal, chlorophyll, minerals, botanicals, or breath fresheners It may contain other additives such as additives. They may be imitations, synthetic or natural ingredients, or mixtures thereof. They may be in any suitable form, eg oils, liquids or powders.

The example above includes a fully hydrophobic portion and a fully absorbent portion. Another example is to provide an absorbent material having a composite structure of hydrophobic and hydrophilic elements. Hydrophobic elements can assist in wicking into the absorbent material and the liquid is then retained by the hydrophilic elements.

The above embodiments should be understood as illustrative examples of the invention. Further embodiments of the invention are envisaged. It should be understood that any feature described in connection with any one embodiment may be used alone or in combination with other described features, and in any other implementation. It is that they may be used in combination with one or more features of the form or in any combination of any other embodiment. Moreover, equivalents and modifications not described above may be employed without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.

According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, an aerosol delivery device is provided, comprising:
a housing defining a first opening in a first end of the housing and a second opening in a second end of the housing for receiving an aerosol-generating material therethrough;
a chamber disposed between the second opening and the first opening, at least a portion of the chamber configured to receive the aerosol-generating material;
at least one heater disposed within the housing and configured to heat an aerosol-generating material received within the chamber, thereby generating an aerosol;
an absorbent material for absorbing liquid;
In use, the aerosol is drawn along the flow path through the chamber toward the first opening, and the absorbent material is at least upstream of the portion of the chamber configured to receive the aerosol-generating material. partially placed.

A section of the chamber may be tubular and at least a portion of the absorbent material may be tubular. This allows better air flow through the absorbent material. In certain examples, the section of the chamber is a cylindrical tube and at least a portion of the absorbent material is a cylindrical tube.

FIG. 9 shows a perspective view of absorbent member 164 . The absorbent member is tubular, generally cylindrical , and has a length between 5 mm and 20 mm, eg about 10 mm. The absorbent member 164 therefore has a circular cross-sectional shape. In FIG. 8, absorbent members 164 are positioned in the section of the chamber defined by support 136 . The support 136 is also tubular and has a circular cross-sectional shape corresponding to that of the absorbent member 164 . The inner diameter of the support 136 is substantially the same as the outer diameter 166 of the absorbent member 164 to provide a tight fit, such as an interference fit, within the support to prevent leakage around the outer surface of the absorbent member. Decrease. For example, the diameter of the absorbent member may be between 4mm and 5mm, preferably between 4.4mm and 4.6mm, with the corresponding inner diameter of the support. This interference fit may help keep the absorbent member 164 in place. The inner diameter of the support 136 can be slightly smaller than the outer diameter 166 of the absorbent member 164 so that the absorbent member is compressed when received in the chamber. The ability to ensure this compressed state means that the absorbent member 164 at all locations around the absorbent member 164 abuts the inner surface of the chamber, substantially preventing liquid from flowing around the absorbent member 164. It is to be.

FIG. 11 shows a perspective view of absorbent member 174 . The absorbent member can be disc-shaped and generally cylindrical . The absorbent member has a height of about 2.5 mm and a diameter of about 8 mm. The absorbent member 174 therefore has a circular cross-sectional shape. In FIG. 10, absorbent member 174 is positioned in recess 170 . The recess 170 is also disc-shaped and has a circular cross-sectional shape corresponding to the cross-sectional shape of the absorbent member 174 . The inner diameter of the recess 170 is substantially the same as the outer diameter 176 of the absorbent member 174 to provide a tight fit. For example, an interference fit may help keep the absorbent member 174 in place when the door is opened. The inner diameter of the recess 170 can be slightly smaller than the outer diameter 176 of the absorbent member 174 so that the absorbent member is compressed when received in the chamber. This compressed state can be ensured because the absorbent member 174 abuts one or more sidewalls 170b of the recess 170 at all locations around the absorbent member 174 so that liquid can flow around the absorbent member 174. is to reduce the possibility of flowing into

The absorbent material 184a is tubular and generally cylindrical . The absorbent material 184a therefore has a circular cross-sectional shape. Absorbent material 184a can be disposed in the section of the chamber defined by support 136. As shown in FIG. The support 136 is also tubular and has a circular cross-sectional shape corresponding to the cross-sectional shape of the absorbent material 184a. The inner diameter of the support 136 is substantially the same as the outer diameter 186 of the absorbent material 184a to provide a tight fit and reduce leakage. This interference fit may also help keep the absorbent member 184 in place (which may be useful if the absorbent member 184 does not have any engagement features). Substrate 184b is disc-shaped and generally cylindrical . Substrate 184b therefore has a circular cross-sectional shape. The substrate 184b may be placed in a recess in the door 140, and thus the recess may also be disc-shaped and have a circular cross-sectional shape corresponding to the cross-sectional shape of the substrate 184b. The inner diameter of the recess can be substantially the same as the outer diameter 188 of the substrate 184b to provide a tight fit (which can be useful if the absorbent member 184 does not have any engagement features).

The first portion 194a is tubular and generally cylindrical . The first portion 194a therefore has a circular cross-sectional shape. The first portion 194a can be positioned in the section of the chamber defined by the support 136. As shown in FIG. The support 136 can also be tubular and has a circular cross-sectional shape corresponding to the cross-sectional shape of the first portion 194a. The inner diameter of the support 136 is substantially the same as the outer diameter 196 of the first portion 194a to provide a tight fit and reduce leakage. An interference fit may also help maintain the absorbent member 194 in place (which may be useful if the absorbent member 194 does not have any engagement features).

The second portion 194c is disc-shaped and generally cylindrical . The second portion 194c therefore has a circular cross-sectional shape. A second portion 194 c may be positioned between an end of support 136 and a recess in door 140 . In some examples, the cross-sectional shape of second portion 194c may not need to correspond to the cross-sectional shape of any component of the device. In another example, the second portion 194c may be received in a wider bottom section of a chamber, such as a wider section of the support 136, and the cross-sectional shape of the second portion 194c may be similar to that of the second portion 194c. may correspond to the cross-sectional shape of the section of the chamber/support that receives the .

Substrate 194b is disc-shaped and generally cylindrical . Substrate 194b therefore has a circular cross-sectional shape. The substrate 194b can be placed in a recess in the door 140, so the recess can also be disc-shaped and have a circular cross-sectional shape corresponding to the cross-sectional shape of the substrate 194b. The inner diameter of the recess is substantially the same as the outer diameter 198 of the substrate 194b, which can provide a "snap" fit (which can be useful if the absorbent member 194 does not have any engagement features).

In the examples of Figures 8, 9, 12 and 13 discussed above, the absorbent member is at least partially tubular. In other examples, the absorbent member may be generally solid and cylindrical . In other words, the absorbent member can take the form of a cylindrical "plug". The absorbent members in these examples are gas permeable to provide a fluid flow path through the absorbent member. The dimensions can be similar to the example of FIG. 9, with a length of about 5 mm to 20 mm and a diameter of about 4 mm to 5 mm. In one configuration, the absorbent member may be a cylinder with a diameter of 4.4mm to 4.6mm and a length of about 10mm.

When an aerosol-modifying material is incorporated into an absorbent material, it may be desirable to increase the volume of the absorbent material, thus flavorants may be combined with any liquid absorbed without saturating the absorbent material. can exist. Some examples increase the diameter of a solid cylindrical absorbent member to do this. For example, the diameter can increase from about 4.4-4.6 mm to about 7-9 mm, eg, about 8.2 mm. Increasing the diameter has minimal impact on pressure drop in use, all other things being equal, it reduces pressure drop because there are more passageways through the absorbent material.

Claims (50)

a housing defining a first opening in a first end of the housing and a second opening in a second end of the housing for receiving an aerosol-generating material therethrough;
a chamber positioned between the second opening and the first opening, wherein at least a portion of the chamber is configured to receive the aerosol-generating material;
at least one heater disposed within the housing and configured to heat an aerosol-generating material received within the chamber, thereby generating an aerosol;
an absorbent material for absorbing liquid;
with
during use, the aerosol is drawn along a flow path through the chamber toward the first opening;
An aerosol delivery device, wherein the absorbent material is at least partially positioned upstream of a portion of the chamber configured to receive the aerosol-generating material. 2. The cover of claim 1, further comprising said cover movable between a first position in which said second opening is blocked by a cover and a second position in which said second opening is not blocked by said cover. aerosol delivery device. the cover comprises a recess,
3. The aerosol delivery device of Claim 2, wherein the absorbent material is at least partially disposed in the recess. 4. An aerosol-delivery device according to claim 2 or 3, wherein in use the absorbent material is at least partially disposed between the aerosol-generating material and the cover. An aerosol delivery device according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the cover is removable from the device. An aerosol delivery device according to any preceding claim, wherein the absorbent material comprises foam, sponge, paper or cellulose acetate. An aerosol delivery device according to any preceding claim, wherein the absorbent material has an absorption capacity of at least 7 grams of water per gram of absorbent material. An aerosol-delivery device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the absorbent material is arranged at least partially inside the section of the chamber. 9. The aerosol delivery device of claim 8, wherein the section of the chamber and at least a portion of the absorbent material have corresponding cross-sectional shapes. 10. The aerosol delivery device of claim 9, wherein said section of said chamber is tubular and at least a portion of said absorbent material is tubular. An aerosol delivery device according to any preceding claim, wherein at least a portion of said absorbent material is gas permeable. 12. The aerosol delivery device of Claim 11, wherein the absorbent material covers one or more air inlets. An aerosol delivery device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the absorbent material comprises through-holes for the passage of air. An aerosol delivery device according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising an absorbent member containing said absorbent material supported by a substrate. said substrate comprising an engagement feature for engaging said housing or cover;
15. The cover of claim 14, wherein the cover is movable between a first position in which the second opening is blocked by the cover and a second position in which the second opening is not blocked by the cover. aerosol delivery device. An aerosol delivery device according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a brush containing said absorbent material. An aerosol-delivery device according to any preceding claim, wherein the chamber comprises a barrier for separating the aerosol-generating material from the absorbent material. 18. The aerosol of any one of claims 1-17, wherein the device further comprises a hydrophobic material disposed within the housing to substantially prevent liquid from escaping the aerosol delivery device. feeding device. 19. Any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least part of the chamber is hydrophobic or comprises a hydrophobic coating to facilitate the flow of the liquid towards the absorbent material. aerosol delivery device. 20. Any one of claims 1-19, wherein at least a portion of the absorbent material is configured to provide a visual indication to indicate when the absorbent material is ready for replacement or cleaning. The aerosol delivery device according to . 21. The aerosol delivery device of claim 20, wherein said visual indication is a color change of said portion of said absorbent material. 22. The aerosol delivery device of claim 21, wherein said absorbent material includes a chemical indicator for providing said visual indication. An absorbent member for absorbing liquid in an aerosol delivery device, comprising:
said absorbent member comprising an absorbent material supported by a substrate;
An absorbent member, wherein the absorbent material is configured to be at least partially received in a chamber or door of the aerosol delivery device adjacent an aerosol-generating material. 24. The absorbent member of claim 23, wherein said substrate has at least one engagement feature for engaging a housing or cover of said aerosol delivery device. 25. An absorbent member according to claim 23 or 24, wherein the absorbent material and the substrate each comprise respective through-holes for air to pass through the absorbent member. An absorbent member according to any one of claims 23 to 25, wherein said substrate is hydrophobic. 27. Any one of claims 23-26, wherein at least a portion of the absorbent material is configured to provide a visual indication to indicate when the absorbent material is ready for replacement or cleaning. Absorbent member according to. 28. The absorbent member of claim 27, wherein said visual indication comprises a color change of said portion of said absorbent material. 28. The absorbent member of Claim 27, comprising a chemical indicator for providing said visual indication. An aerosol delivery device comprising:
a housing defining a first opening in a first end of the housing and a second opening in a second end of the housing for receiving an aerosol-generating material therethrough;
a chamber positioned between the second opening and the first opening, wherein at least a portion of the chamber is configured to receive an aerosol-generating material;
at least one heater disposed within the housing and configured to heat the aerosol-generating material received within the chamber, thereby generating an aerosol;
a hydrophobic material disposed within the housing to substantially prevent leakage of liquid from the aerosol delivery device;
with
An aerosol delivery device, wherein in use the aerosol is drawn through the chamber towards the first opening. further comprising the cover movable between a first position in which the second opening is blocked by the cover and a second position in which the second opening is not blocked by the cover;
31. The aerosol dispensing of claim 30, wherein the hydrophobic material is configured to substantially prevent liquid from leaking past the cover when the cover is disposed in the first position. device. 32. The aerosol delivery device of Claim 31, wherein at least a portion of said hydrophobic material is disposed between said cover and said second opening. the cover defines one or more apertures for air to pass through;
33. An aerosol delivery device according to claim 31 or 32, wherein the hydrophobic material is arranged inside the housing to prevent liquid from passing through the one or more apertures. 34. The aerosol delivery device of claim 33, wherein the hydrophobic material is gas permeable and arranged to cover the one or more apertures. The aerosol-delivery device of any one of claims 31-34, wherein the cover comprises a recess and the hydrophobic material is at least partially disposed in the recess. the recess comprises a base and one or more sidewalls extending from the base;
the hydrophobic material has a first surface area and the base has a second surface area;
36. The aerosol delivery device of claim 35, wherein said first surface area is greater than said second surface area. The aerosol delivery device of any one of claims 30-36, wherein the hydrophobic material comprises polyethylene terephthalate. The aerosol-delivery device of any one of claims 30-37, wherein the chamber comprises a barrier for separating the aerosol-generating material from the hydrophobic material. The chamber defines a first section for receiving the aerosol-generating material and a second section for receiving the hydrophobic material, the first section being greater than the second section. 39. The aerosol-delivery device according to any one of claims 30-38, wherein the is also arranged close to the first opening. The aerosol delivery device of any one of claims 30-39, further comprising an absorbent material. 41. The aerosol delivery device of claim 40, wherein said absorbent material is positioned closer to said first opening than said hydrophobic material. 41. The aerosol delivery device of Claim 40, wherein the hydrophobic material is positioned closer to the first opening than the absorbent material. during use, the aerosol is drawn along a flow path through the chamber toward the first opening;
43. The aerosol-delivery device of claim 40, 41 or 42, wherein the absorbent material is at least partially positioned upstream of the portion of the chamber configured to receive the aerosol-generating material. 44. Any one of claims 30-43, wherein at least part of the chamber is hydrophobic or comprises a hydrophobic coating to facilitate the flow of the liquid towards the hydrophobic material. aerosol delivery device. An aerosol delivery device comprising:
a housing defining a first opening in a first end of the housing and a second opening in a second end of the housing for receiving an aerosol-generating material therethrough;
a chamber positioned between the second opening and the first opening, wherein at least a portion of the chamber is configured to receive the aerosol-generating material;
at least one heater disposed within the housing and configured to heat an aerosol-generating material received within the chamber, thereby generating an aerosol;
a removable cover configured to receive liquid from the chamber, the removable cover being attachable to the aerosol delivery device in a position where the second opening is blocked by the cover; ,
an aerosol delivery device. 46. The aerosol delivery device of claim 45, wherein said cover comprises a liquid reservoir for receiving said liquid. 47. An aerosol delivery device according to claim 45 or 46, wherein the cover comprises absorbent material. 48. The aerosol delivery device of claim 47, wherein the cover comprises a recess and the absorbent material is at least partially disposed in the recess. 49. The aerosol of any one of claims 45-48, wherein at least a portion of the chamber is hydrophobic or includes a hydrophobic coating to facilitate flow of the liquid toward the cover. supply device. an aerosol delivery device according to any one of claims 1-22 and 30-49;
an aerosol-generating material contained or capable of being contained within said chamber;
A system comprising:

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