JP2022550379A - Aerosol-generating article with retainer - Google Patents

Abstract

An aerosol-generating device is provided for use with a heat source and an aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-generating device comprises an elongated body extending between an upstream end and a downstream end, the elongated body having an upstream recess for receiving an aerosol-forming substrate and a heat source. The aerosol-generating device further comprises an annular cutting edge located at the upstream end of the upstream recess. The aerosol-generating device further comprises an ejection element disposed within the elongated body, the ejection element movable between a first position and a second position, wherein the ejection element is positioned at a position greater than the first position. It extends further into the upstream recess at a second location. Additionally, a pack is provided for use with an aerosol generating device. [Selection drawing] Fig. 1

Description

The present invention relates to an aerosol generator. In particular, the present invention relates to aerosol-generating devices for use with heat sources and aerosol-forming substrates. The present invention also relates to an aerosol-generating system comprising an aerosol-generating device, a heat source, and an aerosol-forming substrate. The invention also relates to a pack for use with an aerosol-generating device and a kit of parts comprising the aerosol-generating device and the pack.

A number of alternative aerosol-generating articles have been proposed in the art. One purpose of such alternative aerosol-generating articles is to reduce the amount of specific smoke constituents of the type produced by the combustion and pyrolysis of tobacco in combustible cigarettes. In one known type of aerosol-generating article, an aerosol is generated by the transfer of heat from a heat source, which may be a combustible heat source, to an aerosol-forming substrate located adjacent to the heat source. During aerosol generation, volatile compounds are released from the aerosol-forming substrate by heat transfer from the heat source and entrained in the air drawn through the aerosol-generating article. As the released compound cools, it condenses to form an aerosol. These are sometimes known as heated aerosol-generating articles.

In a heated aerosol-generating article comprising a combustible heat source and an aerosol-forming substrate, the combustible heat source is rigidly attached to the aerosol-forming substrate to avoid separation of the combustible heat source from the rest of the aerosol-forming article. There must be. The combustible heat source must remain securely attached to the aerosol-forming substrate from manufacture of the aerosol-generating article and during transportation, use, and possibly disposal of the aerosol-generating article. Securely attaching the combustible heat source to the rest of the aerosol-generating article can be difficult due to the inability to completely cover the combustible heat source, which can interfere with combustion of the combustible heat source.

It is desirable to provide secure attachment of the heat source to the remainder of the aerosol-generating article to prevent the heat source from being detached from the rest of the aerosol-generating article.

The combustible heat source of known aerosol-generating articles may be at least partially exposed. This can lead to the risk of thermal damage to properties caused by contact of the combustible heat source with other materials. In some circumstances there may be a risk of igniting materials with which the combustible heat source contacts. One measure of the propensity of a smoking article to cause adjacent material to ignite is ignition propensity. It is desirable to provide an aerosol-generating article that has a reduced ignition propensity due to its ignition propensity reducing features relative to an aerosol-generating article that does not have those features, or has an ignition propensity equal to or less than that of a cigarette.

Additionally, some known heated aerosol-generating articles do not offer consumers the opportunity to customize their experience. For example, if a consumer wishes to use a particular aerosol-forming substrate, the consumer must purchase an entire aerosol-generating article with that substrate. Additionally, in known aerosol-generating articles, combustible heat sources and aerosol-forming substrates are consumed during use, and other elements, such as cooling and spacer elements, and heat-conducting members typically dissipate into an aerosol after a single use. Discarded along with the rest of the generated article. It is desirable to provide aerosol-generating articles whose user experience is easily customizable by the consumer. It would be desirable to provide an aerosol-generating article in which certain components, especially non-consumed components, can be reused.

Additionally, prior art heat sources may include carbon, and prior art aerosol-forming substrates may include aerosol formers. For this reason, users may not want direct contact with heat sources or aerosol-forming substrates. For example, users may not want to directly handle heat sources or aerosol-forming substrates. It is desirable to allow users to customize their experience while minimizing physical contact with heat sources and aerosol-forming substrates.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION In accordance with the present invention, an aerosol generating device is provided comprising an elongated body extending between an upstream end and a downstream end. The elongated body may have an upstream recess for receiving an aerosol-forming substrate and a heat source. The upstream recess allows a heat source and an aerosol-forming substrate, both consumables, to be received within the aerosol-generating device. The device may be reused, leading to less waste. Additionally, since the recess can accept any aerosol-forming substrate, users can customize their experience by inserting the aerosol-forming substrate of their choice into the upstream recess.

The aerosol-generating device may further comprise an annular cutting edge located at the upstream end of the upstream recess. The upstream recess may be defined by an annular cutting edge at its upstream end. As described in more detail below, providing a cutting edge uses the device in conjunction with certain pucks that may reduce or eliminate the need for the user to come into direct contact with at least one of the heat source and the aerosol-forming substrate. can make it possible.

The aerosol-generating device may further comprise an ejection element disposed within the elongated body. The ejection element is movable between a first position and a second position, the ejection element extending further into the upstream recess at the second position than at the first position. The ejection element can advantageously provide a means by which the heat source and/or aerosol-forming substrate can be removed from the device after use without the user having to contact the heat source and/or the aerosol-forming substrate.

A preferred embodiment of the present invention provides an aerosol generating device comprising an elongated body extending between an upstream end and a downstream end. The elongated body has an upstream recess for receiving an aerosol-forming substrate and a heat source. The aerosol-generating device further comprises an annular cutting edge located at the upstream end of the upstream recess. The upstream recess is preferably defined at its upstream end by an annular cutting edge. The aerosol-generating device further comprises an ejection element disposed within the elongated body, the ejection element movable between a first position and a second position, wherein the ejection element is positioned at a position greater than the first position. It extends further into the upstream recess at a second location.

The aerosol-generating device of the present invention can be used multiple times by inserting at least one of a new heat source and a new aerosol-forming substrate into the upstream recess. This can advantageously result in less waste each time the aerosol generating device is used. Further, the provision of an upstream recess for receiving an aerosol-forming substrate advantageously allows users to customize their experience by inserting an aerosol-forming substrate of their choice into the upstream recess. can make it possible to Additionally, receiving the heat source and the aerosol-forming substrate within the upstream recess can advantageously ensure secure retention of the heat source and the aerosol-forming substrate.

Additionally, the provision of an annular cutting edge may allow the device to be used in conjunction with certain packs that may reduce or eliminate the need for the user to have direct contact with at least one of the heat source and aerosol-forming substrate.

Providing an evacuation element advantageously provides a means by which the heat source and/or aerosol-forming substrate can be removed from the device after use without the user having to come into contact with the heat source and/or the aerosol-forming substrate. obtain.

In use, the aerosol-forming substrate and heat source can be inserted into the upstream recess of the elongated body. The aerosol-forming substrate and the heat source may be axially aligned, with the heat source positioned upstream of the aerosol-forming substrate within the upstream recess. The heat source and aerosol-forming substrate may be manually inserted. Insertion of the heat source and the aerosol-forming substrate into the upstream recess of the elongated body can move the ejection element from the second position to the first position.

At least the heat source is preferably inserted by using an aerosol generating device in conjunction with a specific pack containing the heat source. The pack may comprise a heat source storage portion having a longitudinal body, a closed first end and an opposing second end, the second end of the heat source storage portion being bounded by a layer of frangible material. Closed. A heat source may be disposed within the heat source storage portion. The layer of frangible material may comprise a metal foil.

When the aerosol-generating device of the present invention is used in conjunction with a pack as described above, an annular cutting edge located at the upstream end of the upstream recess is pushed into the layer of frangible material. An annular cutting edge cuts through the layer of frangible material, leaving a portion of the frangible material in the upstream recess. As the elongated body passes through the longitudinal body of the heat source storage portion of the pack, the heat source enters the upstream recess. The elongate body may then be removed from the longitudinal body of the heat source storage portion of the pack and, if the heat source is a combustible heat source, the heat source may be ignited. Heat from the heat source can be transferred to the aerosol-forming substrate where the aerosol is formed. After use, the ejection element can be moved from a first position to a second position ejecting the heat source and aerosol-forming substrate from the upstream recess.

A portion of the frangible material left in the upstream recess may be positioned between the heat source and the aerosol-forming substrate. A portion of the frangible material left in the upstream recess can advantageously act as a barrier between the heat source and the aerosol-forming substrate. Providing a barrier formed by a portion of frangible material can advantageously prevent or inhibit migration of at least one aerosol former from the aerosol forming substrate to the heat source during use of the aerosol generating device. The provision of a barrier formed by a portion of a frangible material is advantageous if the heat source is a combustible heat source, and the combustion and decomposition products formed during ignition and combustion of the heat source are effectively removed from the aerosol generating device. It can inhibit entrainment of air drawn through the aerosol-forming substrate during use.

The upstream recess may be sized to receive any number of heat sources and aerosol-forming substrates. Preferably, the upstream recess can be sized to receive a single heat source and a single aerosol-forming substrate. Alternatively, the upstream recess may be sized to receive more than one aerosol-forming substrate. For example, the upstream recess may be sized to receive two, three, four, or more aerosol-forming substrates. This may advantageously allow consumers to customize their experience by inserting specific combinations of different aerosol-forming substrates into the upstream recess. The upstream recess is preferably sized such that a portion of the heat source protrudes from the upstream end of the upstream recess when the aerosol-forming substrate and heat source are properly inserted into the upstream recess. This may advantageously ensure that sufficient air reaches the heat source to facilitate ignition and sustained combustion of the heat source, if the heat source is a combustible heat source.

The elongated body can be formed from a single component. The single component elongated body may be formed from a metallic material such as stainless steel. Alternatively, the single component elongated body may be formed from a polymeric material.

Alternatively, the elongated body may include multiple components. For example, an elongate body can include an upstream portion and a downstream portion.

The upstream portion of the elongated body can include an upstream recess. The upstream portion of the elongated body may include a cutting edge. Preferably, the upstream portion of the elongated body may comprise a heat resistant material. This may advantageously prevent damage to the upstream portion of the elongated body that may be located near the heat source during use. The upstream portion of the elongated body preferably comprises thermally conductive material. This can advantageously ensure adequate heat transfer from the heat source to the aerosol-forming substrate located within the upstream recess. This can advantageously improve aerosol generation by the aerosol-forming substrate. The upstream portion of the elongated body may comprise metallic material. The upstream portion of the elongated body may comprise at least one of stainless steel, Nimonic, Inconel, and aluminum.

A downstream portion of the elongated body may be positioned downstream of the upstream recess. As a result, the downstream portion of the elongated body may not need to be as heat resistant as the upstream portion of the elongated body. Additionally, a user may hold the aerosol generating device by the downstream portion of the elongated body. Accordingly, the downstream portion of the elongated body preferably comprises insulating material. This may advantageously prevent the external surfaces of the aerosol generating device from becoming hot during use. A downstream portion of the elongated body may comprise a polymeric material. For example, the downstream portion of the elongated body may comprise polyetheretherketone (PEEK).

The upstream and downstream portions of the elongate body may be connected by any suitable means. For example, the upstream and downstream portions of the elongated body may be connected by one or more of an interference fit, threaded connection, and adhesive.

The cutting edge may be integrally formed with at least a portion of the elongate body. The cutting edge may be integrally formed with the upstream portion of the elongate body when the elongate body includes an upstream portion and a downstream portion.

The annular cutting edge preferably comprises a metallic material. For example, the cutting edge may comprise stainless steel.

The annular cutting edge may be any edge capable of penetrating or cutting through the layers of frangible material of the pack. The annular cutting edge may be a continuous cutting edge. Alternatively, the annular cutting edge may be discontinuous such that the cutting edge includes one or more cuts.

The annular cutting edge may be flat. Alternatively, the at least one first portion of the annular cutting edge may extend further upstream than the at least one second portion of the annular cutting edge. This can reduce the area of the cut edge in contact with the layer of frangible material of the pack. This may advantageously result in increased pressure meaning less force may be required to penetrate or cut through the layers of frangible material of the pack. The annular cutting edge may be a cutting blade. The cutting edge may include serrations or teeth. These can also advantageously increase pressure and facilitate piercing or cutting through layers of frangible material in the pack.

The ejection element may be made from any material. The ejection element may comprise metallic or polymeric material. For example, the ejection element may comprise stainless steel or PEEK. The ejection element may be an ejection rod having an elongated shape.

Aerosol generators may be suitable for use with any heat source. The upstream recess may be suitable for receiving any heat source. The heat source may be a single use heat source. The heat source may be a multiple use heat source. The heat source may be a combustible heat source, a chemical heat source, an electrical heat source, or any other heat source. The upstream recess is preferably suitable for receiving a combustible heat source.

The terms "longitudinal" and "axial" as used herein in connection with the present invention are defined between opposite upstream and downstream ends of an aerosol-generating device and between the components of the aerosol-generating device. Used to describe the direction between opposing upstream and downstream ends.

The terms "upstream" and "forward" and "downstream" and "backward" as used herein with respect to the present invention refer to the direction in which air flows through the aerosol-generating device during its use. Used to describe the relative positions of device components or parts of components. An aerosol-generating device according to the invention comprises a proximal end through which the aerosol exits the device for delivery to a user during use. The proximal end of the aerosol generator is sometimes referred to as the mouth end or downstream end. In use, the user puffs on the mouth end of the aerosol generator. The oral end is downstream of the distal end. The distal end of the aerosol generator is sometimes referred to as the upstream end. Components or portions of components of the aerosol generator are described as being upstream or downstream of each other based on their relative positions between the proximal end of the aerosol generator and the distal end of the aerosol generator. can be The front of the component or part of the component of the aerosol generator is the part at the end closest to the upstream end of the aerosol generator. A rearward or part of a component of the aerosol generator is the part at the end closest to the downstream end of the aerosol generator.

The drainage element may include a hollow lumen through which the upstream recess is in fluid communication with the downstream end of the elongated body.

In use, aerosol generated by the aerosol-forming substrate may pass from the upstream recess, through the lumen, and to the downstream end of the elongated body.

A downstream end of the elongated body may include an opening through which the aerosol may exit the aerosol generator.

The lumen diameter can be selected to achieve the desired withdrawal resistance (RTD). The lumen may also act as a space for cooling the generated aerosol before the aerosol exits the aerosol-generating article.

The aerosol generating device may further comprise biasing means for biasing the ejection element from the first position to the second position.

Thus, in use, when actuated, the biasing means may act to expel spent heat source and aerosol-forming substrate from the upstream recess of the elongated body after use. This advantageously means that the user does not have to physically push the ejection element from the first position to the second position.

The biasing means can be any biasing means.

The biasing means may comprise a compression spring. The compression spring may be positioned around the ejection element such that the ejection element passes through the central axis of the spring. In this case, the ejector element may include a flange on which the upstream end of the spring may act to bias the ejector element from the first position to the second position. The elongated body may include an internal stop against which the downstream end of the spring may act to bias the ejection element from the first position to the second position.

The aerosol generating device may comprise a first retainer for holding the ejection element in the first position. This may prevent the biasing means from biasing the ejection element from the first position to the second position when it does not want to. This may advantageously prevent the heat source and aerosol-forming substrate from prematurely exiting the upstream recess.

As noted above, insertion of the heat source and the aerosol-forming substrate into the upstream recess of the elongated body can move the ejection element from the second position to the first position. If the aerosol-generating device comprises biasing means for biasing the ejection element from the first position to the second position, insertion into the recess upstream of the heat source and the aerosol-forming substrate. may act on the biasing means. In other words, the biasing means may resist insertion into the recess upstream of the heat source and the aerosol-forming substrate. This may force the aerosol-forming substrate located toward the downstream end of the upstream recess firmly against the heat source located at the upstream end of the upstream recess. This can advantageously improve heat transfer from the heat source to the aerosol-forming substrate. This can advantageously improve aerosol generation by the aerosol-forming substrate.

The retainer can be any retainer capable of overcoming the force of the biasing means.

The retainer may be a mechanical retainer. For example, the retainer may include an interference fit between a portion of the ejection element and a portion of the elongated body. This interference fit force must be overcome in order to move the ejection element from the first position to the second position. The retainer may be a snap connection between the ejection element and the elongated body. This may be particularly suitable if at least one of the ejection element and the elongated body comprises an elastically deformable material such as PEEK.

The retainer may include magnetic connections. For example, the retainer may comprise a pair of permanent magnets, one on the ejector element and one on the elongated body, which are aligned between the two magnets when the ejector element is in the first position. The contact is configured such that magnetic attraction acts to retain the ejection element in the first position. Retainers may include permanent magnets and ferromagnetic materials such as steel. For example, the ejector element may comprise steel and the permanent magnet is positioned within the elongated body and mounted in a position that allows the permanent magnet to contact the ejector element when the ejector element is in the first position. may be

The magnet located within the elongated body may be an annular magnet. This may advantageously allow aerosol exiting the lumen of the ejection element to pass to the downstream end of the elongated body without being obstructed by the magnet.

The aerosol generator may include a fire extinguishing sleeve. The extinguishing sleeve has an upstream end and a downstream end. The extinguishing sleeve is elongated between the loading position, in which the cut edge of the elongate body extends beyond the upstream end of the extinguishing sleeve, and the extinguishing position, in which the cut edge of the elongate body is positioned downstream of the upstream end of the extinguishing sleeve. may be longitudinally movable with respect to the .

When the aerosol-generating device is used in combination with an aerosol-forming substrate, the fire-extinguishing sleeve ensures that sufficient air reaches the heat source to facilitate ignition and sustained combustion of the heat source if the heat source is a combustible heat source. in the loading position to allow. After aerosol generation, the extinguishing sleeve can move upstream from the loading position to the extinguishing position. In the extinguishing position, the extinguishing sleeve extends beyond the upstream end of the elongated body. When a combustible heat source is received within the upstream recess of the elongated body, movement of the extinguishing sleeve from the loading position to the extinguishing position can limit the supply of air to the combustible heat source. This may extinguish the combustible heat source. In the extinguishing position, the extinguishing sleeve may extend further upstream than the upstream end of the combustible heat source received within the upstream recess.

The provision of a fire-extinguishing sleeve may advantageously provide a convenient method of extinguishing a combustible heat source prior to being discharged from the upstream recess by the discharge element.

The extinguishing sleeve may have an overall length that is less than the overall length of the elongated body. This advantageously allows the user to hold the fire-extinguishing sleeve in one hand and a portion of the elongated body in the other hand to move the fire-extinguishing sleeve against the elongated body between the loading position and the fire-extinguishing position. allow it to move.

The fire-extinguishing sleeve has an upstream stop and a downstream stop configured to engage corresponding portions of the elongated body to prevent the elongated body from extending too far upstream or downstream relative to the elongated body. may include at least one of This may advantageously prevent the extinguishing sleeve from separating from the elongated body. When the downstream portion of the elongated body includes a thermally insulating material and the upstream portion of the elongated body includes a thermally conductive material, the fire-extinguishing sleeve is positioned in the upstream portion of the elongated body when the fire-extinguishing sleeve is in both the fire-extinguishing position and the loading position. It may be configured to cover most of it. This may advantageously prevent exposure of upstream portions of the elongated body that may become hot during use.

A fire extinguishing sleeve may comprise any material. The extinguishing sleeve preferably comprises an insulating material. This may advantageously prevent the external surface of the aerosol generating device from becoming too hot during use. For example, a fire extinguishing sleeve may include PEEK.

The aerosol generating device may comprise at least one locking mechanism for locking the extinguishing sleeve in at least one of the loading position and the extinguishing position. The aerosol generating device may comprise at least one locking mechanism for locking the extinguishing sleeve in each of the loading position and the extinguishing position. At least one locking mechanism may include a ball catch. The at least one locking mechanism may advantageously prevent accidental movement of the extinguishing sleeve between the loading position and the extinguishing position.

When the extinguishing sleeve is in the loading position, the cutting edge of the elongated body extends beyond the upstream end of the extinguishing position. This may advantageously allow the cutting edge of the elongated body to penetrate or cut through layers of frangible material of the pack as described above.

The overall length of the aerosol generator may be longer when the extinguishing sleeve is in the extinguishing position rather than the loading position. For example, when the extinguishing sleeve is in the loaded position, the aerosol generating device may have an overall length of about 70 millimeters to about 100 millimeters, preferably about 80 millimeters to about 90 millimeters. The aerosol generating device may have an overall length of about 84 millimeters when the extinguishing sleeve is in the loaded position. The overall length of the aerosol generating device may be greater than about 84 millimeters when the extinguishing sleeve is in the extinguishing position.

The fire-extinguishing sleeve may be movable from the fire-extinguishing position to an ejection position in which the cut edge of the elongated body is located further downstream of the upstream end of the fire-extinguishing sleeve than in the fire-extinguishing position. Movement to the ejection position moves the ejection element from the first position to the second position.

Movement of the extinguishing sleeve from the extinguishing position to the ejecting position may cause the retainer to release the ejector element. The ejection element may then be biased from the first position to the second position by biasing means. The extinguishing sleeve may include an internal element that engages a portion of the ejection element when the extinguishing sleeve moves from the extinguishing position to the ejecting position. Engagement between the internal element of the extinguishing sleeve and a portion of the ejection element overcomes the retaining force of the retainer and biasing means biases the ejection element from the first position to the second position. make it possible. This allows at least one of the aerosol-forming substrate and the heat source to be expelled from the upstream recess.

Providing an ejection position for the extinguishing element is advantageously convenient for the user to move the ejection element from the first position to the second position to eject the aerosol-forming substrate and heat source after use. can provide a method. In particular, the biasing means advantageously provide a convenient method for releasing the retainer, if present, allowing the ejection element to move from the first position to the second position. obtain.

Furthermore, since the extinguishing sleeve must pass from the loading position through the extinguishing position before reaching the extinguishing position, the aerosol generating device cannot exhaust the heat source before the extinguishing sleeve moves to the extinguishing position. This advantageously ensures that, if the heat source is a combustible heat source, the heat source received within the upstream recess of the elongate body is extinguished prior to exiting the upstream recess of the elongate body. can help to

Movement of the extinguishing sleeve from the ejection position back to the loading position may move the ejection element from the second position back to the first position. Movement of the extinguishing sleeve from the ejection position back to the loading position preferably does not move the ejection element from the second position back to the first position. As noted above, inserting the aerosol-forming substrate and heat source into the upstream recess of the elongated body thereby causes the aerosol-forming substrate located toward the downstream end of the upstream recess to move toward the upstream end of the upstream recess. It is preferable to push the ejection element from the second position to the first position because it is firmly pressed against the heat source arranged in the . This can advantageously improve heat transfer from the heat source to the aerosol-forming substrate. This can advantageously improve aerosol generation by the aerosol-forming substrate.

The overall length of the aerosol generator may be longer when the extinguishing sleeve is in the discharge position rather than the loading or extinguishing position. For example, the aerosol generating device may have an overall length of about 80 millimeters to about 110 millimeters, preferably about 90 millimeters to about 100 millimeters, when the extinguishing sleeve is in the ejection position. The aerosol generating device may have an overall length of about 96 millimeters when the extinguishing sleeve is in the ejection position. The overall length of the aerosol generating device may be less than about 96 millimeters when the extinguishing sleeve is in either the loading position or the extinguishing position.

The aerosol generating device may further comprise at least one air inlet through the elongated body and into the upstream recess.

At least one air inlet through the elongated body can advantageously allow air to access at least one of the heat source and the aerosol-forming substrate. This may advantageously facilitate ignition and sustained combustion of the heat source located within the upstream recess if the heat source is a combustible heat source. Additionally, air passing into the upstream recess can also advantageously facilitate aerosol generation from the aerosol-forming substrate and aerosol transmission to the downstream end of the elongated body.

The at least one air inlet may include at least one upstream air inlet for supplying air to the heat source and at least one downstream air inlet for supplying air to the aerosol-forming substrate.

Since both the heat source and the aerosol-forming substrate may require a supply of air, the provision of at least one upstream air inlet and at least one downstream air inlet advantageously provides sufficient air. Access to both the heat source and the aerosol-forming substrate received within the upstream recess of the elongated body can be ensured.

The at least one upstream air inlet may be positioned adjacent a portion of the upstream recess of the elongated body configured to receive the heat source. The at least one downstream air inlet may be positioned adjacent a portion of the upstream recess of the elongated body configured to receive the aerosol-forming substrate.

The at least one upstream air inlet may include any number of individual air inlets. The at least one downstream air inlet may include any number of individual air inlets. Individual air inlets may be of any size. The number and size of the at least one upstream air inlet and the at least one downstream air inlet may be selected to provide a suitable total air inlet area. The total air inlet area of the at least one upstream air inlet is such that, if the heat source is a combustible heat source, sufficient air can reach the heat source to facilitate ignition and sustained combustion of the heat source. can be selected to The total air inlet area of the at least one downstream air inlet can allow sufficient air to reach the aerosol-forming substrate to generate an aerosol while still providing acceptable withdrawal resistance. can be selected to be A total air inlet area of the at least one upstream air inlet may be greater than a total air inlet area of the at least one downstream air inlet. This is because the amount of air required to promote ignition and sustained combustion of the combustible heat source is required to generate the aerosol at the aerosol-forming substrate and provide acceptable withdrawal resistance. This may be because it may be larger than the amount of air

For example, at least one upstream air inlet may include a series of elongated slits and at least one downstream air inlet may include a series of shorter slits or circular perforations.

Alternatively or additionally, at least one upstream air inlet may include several rows of perforations and at least one downstream air inlet may include fewer rows of perforations.

The extinguishing sleeve may include at least one sleeve air inlet. The at least one sleeve air inlet is configured such that in the loaded position air can pass through the at least one sleeve air inlet and then through the at least one downstream air inlet of the elongated body to the aerosol-forming substrate. Additionally, the extinguishing sleeve may be configured to align with at least one downstream air inlet of the elongated body when in the loaded position.

This advantageously allows air to pass through at least one downstream air intake of the elongated body without being obscured by the extinguishing sleeve.

The fire extinguishing sleeve is in the loaded position such that air can pass through the at least one sleeve air intake and then through the at least one upstream air intake of the elongated body to the heat source. may further include at least one sleeve air inlet configured to align with the at least one upstream air inlet of the elongated body when in position. Alternatively or additionally, at least one upstream air intake of the elongated body may be provided in a portion of the elongated body extending upstream of the upstream end of the elongated body when the extinguishing element is in the loaded position. . This advantageously means that in the loaded position the upstream air intake is not obstructed by the extinguishing element.

The aerosol generating device further includes a heat conductor disposed within the upstream recess and connected to the fire fighting sleeve such that movement of the fire fighting sleeve between the loading position and the fire fighting position causes corresponding movement of the heat conductor. You may prepare.

A thermal conductor can provide an efficient means by which heat can be transferred from a heat source to an aerosol-forming substrate. The heat conductor may provide a further means for extinguishing a burning combustible heat source received within the upstream recess of the elongated body. As the extinguishing element moves from the loading position to the extinguishing position, the heat conductor extends over a larger area of the combustible heat source. This may draw heat away from the combustible heat source, cool the combustible heat source, and contribute to extinguishing the combustible heat source.

A thermal conductor may comprise a thermally conductive material. The thermal conductor may include metal. For example, the thermal conductor may include at least one of aluminum, steel, Nimonic, and Inconel. The thermal conductor preferably contains aluminum.

The thermal conductor may extend any distance along the length of the upstream recess. A thermal conductor may extend from the downstream end of the upstream recess to the upstream end of the upstream recess. This can maximize heat transfer from the heat source to the aerosol-forming substrate. The upstream end of the thermal conductor may not extend upstream of the upstream end of the upstream recess. This may advantageously prevent the heat conductor from blocking the supply of air to the heat source. The heat conductor may not extend upstream of the upstream end of the extinguishing sleeve. The upstream end of the heat conductor may be aligned with the upstream end of the extinguishing sleeve. This may prevent direct contact of the thermal conductor with any other material, which may become hot during use of the aerosol-generating article. This can advantageously help reduce or prevent potential damage to the material caused by contact with the thermal conductor.

The location and length of the heat conductor is such that the heat conductor overlaps the downstream end of the heat source when the extinguishing sleeve is in the loaded position and the aerosol-forming substrate and heat source are received within the upstream recess. The heat conductor may overlap at least about 1 millimeter, or at least about 2 millimeters, of the downstream end of the heat source. The heat conductor may overlap about 3 millimeters of the downstream end of the heat source.

When the extinguishing sleeve is in the loaded position, the upstream recess extends from the annular cutting edge to the upstream end of the discharge element from about 5 millimeters to about 25 millimeters, from about 10 millimeters to about 20 millimeters, or from about 12 millimeters to about 17 millimeters. may have a length. The upstream recess may have a length of about 15 millimeters from the annular cutting edge to the upstream end of the discharge element when the extinguishing sleeve is in the loaded position.

The aerosol generating device may comprise at least one retaining means arranged within the recess and configured to retain the heat source.

The provision of at least one retaining means may advantageously ensure that the heat source is securely retained within the upstream recess when the aerosol generating device is in use.

At least one retaining means may comprise at least one elastic element. At least one elastic element may be attached to and extend from the inner surface upstream recess. The at least one elastic element may comprise a plurality of elastic elements, for example the at least one elastic element may comprise two elastic elements. The elements may be positioned opposite each other on the inner surface of the upstream recess.

The retaining means may ensure that there is a tight fit between the heat source and the inner surface of the upstream recess when the heat source is received within the upstream recess. This may prevent air from being drawn past the heat source and onto the aerosol-forming substrate. This may advantageously inhibit activation of combustion of the combustible heat source during puffing by the user. This can substantially prevent or inhibit temperature spikes in the aerosol-forming substrate during puffing by the user. Combustion of the aerosol-forming substrate under heavy smoking conditions or Thermal decomposition can be advantageously avoided. In addition, the effect of the user's smoking situation on the composition of mainstream aerosols can be advantageously minimized or reduced.

The provision of retention means and the resulting close fit of the combustible heat source advantageously accommodates combustion and decomposition products, chemical reactants or by-products of chemical reactions, and the upstream section of the cavity. Other substances formed during use of the heat source can be substantially prevented or inhibited from entering the air that is drawn through the aerosol-forming substrate and delivered to the user. This can be particularly advantageous when the heat source is a combustible heat source and includes one or more additives to aid ignition or combustion of the combustible heat source.

A downstream end of the elongated body may include a downstream recess for receiving a mouthpiece.

Providing a downstream recess for receiving the mouthpiece can mean that the mouthpiece used in the aerosol generating device can be removable from the device. If the mouthpiece is reusable, this may allow the mouthpiece to be cleaned. If the mouthpiece is disposable, this may allow changing the mouthpiece after each use of the aerosol generating device or after several uses. The downstream recess may be sized to receive the filter.

The downstream recess may be in fluid communication with the upstream recess such that aerosol generated in the upstream recess by the aerosol-forming substrate can pass into the downstream recess and out of the aerosol generating device.

The recess may include at least one portion having a reduced diameter.

The at least one portion with reduced diameter can have a reduced diameter compared to the diameter of the recesses both upstream and downstream of the at least one portion with reduced diameter.

At least one portion having a reduced diameter can advantageously help retain a mouthpiece received within the downstream recess. For example, if the mouthpiece is a filter, the filter may be slightly compressed by at least one portion having a reduced diameter to securely retain the filter within the downstream recess.

At least one portion having a reduced diameter may prevent aerosol from passing out of the aerosol generator between the mouthpiece and the inner surface of the downstream recess. This can advantageously ensure that all or most of the aerosol generated by the aerosol-forming substrate passes out of the device through the mouthpiece.

At least one portion having a reduced diameter may include at least one O-ring disposed on the inner surface of the downstream recess. The at least one O-ring can include any number of O-rings. For example, the at least one O-ring may include two O-rings.

According to a further aspect of the invention, a pack is provided for use with an aerosol generating device. The pack includes a heat source storage portion having a longitudinal body, a closed first end and an opposing second end. A second end of the heat source storage portion may be closed by a layer of frangible material. A heat source may be disposed within the heat source storage portion.

Providing a pack with a heat source storage portion and a frangible barrier can advantageously extend the shelf life of the heat source by preventing escape of the volatile components of the heat source. The supply may also advantageously prevent the heat source from absorbing moisture during storage that could impede ignition or combustion of the heat source, if the heat source is a combustible heat source.

When the pack is used in conjunction with the aerosol generating device described above, the annular cut edge defining the upstream end of the recess is wedged into the layer of frangible material. The annular cutting edge penetrates or cuts through the layer of frangible material, leaving a portion of the frangible material in the upstream recess. As the elongated body passes through the longitudinal body of the heat source storage portion of the pack, the heat source enters the upstream recess. The elongate body may then be removed from the longitudinal body of the heat source storage portion of the pack and, if the heat source is a combustible heat source, the heat source may be ignited.

Use of the pack in the aerosol generating device described above can advantageously reduce or eliminate the need for direct user contact with the heat source.

The heat source may be any heat source. The heat source may be a combustible heat source.

The combustible heat source is preferably a solid heat source and includes, but is not limited to, carbon and carbon-based materials including aluminum, magnesium, one or more carbides, one or more nitrides, and combinations thereof. Any suitable combustible fuel may be provided. Solid combustible heat sources for heated smoking articles, and methods for making such heat sources, are well known in the art, for example US-A-5,040,552 and US-A-5,595. , 577. Typically, known solid state combustible heat sources for heat-not-burn smoking articles are carbon-based, ie, comprising carbon as the primary combustible material. The combustible heat source may be a combustible carbonaceous heat source. Combustible heat sources may include wraps for hygienic reasons. The wrap may include paper.

A portion of the frangible material left in the upstream recess may be positioned between the heat source and the aerosol-forming substrate. A portion of the frangible material left in the upstream recess can advantageously act as a barrier between the heat source and the aerosol-forming substrate. Providing a barrier formed by a portion of frangible material can advantageously prevent or inhibit migration of at least one aerosol former from the aerosol forming substrate to the heat source during use of the aerosol generating device. The provision of a barrier formed by a portion of a frangible material is advantageous if the heat source is a combustible heat source, and the combustion and decomposition products formed during ignition and combustion of the heat source are effectively removed from the aerosol generating device. It can inhibit entrainment of air drawn through the aerosol-forming substrate during use.

A frangible material can include any material. Preferably, the frangible material may comprise metallic material. Where the frangible material comprises a metallic material, a portion of the metallic material disposed between the heat source and the aerosol-forming substrate can advantageously conduct heat efficiently from the heat source to the aerosol-forming substrate.

The layer of frangible material preferably comprises a layer of aluminum foil.

The layer of frangible material may be provided with at least one line of weakness. Advantageously, the at least one line of weakness is a portion of the frangible material that, when the annular cutting edge penetrates or cuts through the layer of frangible material, breaks in place to provide a barrier to the frangible material. can be promoted to form At least one line of weakness may be circular. At least one line of weakness may include a scoreline.

A distance between the first end and the second end of the heat source storage portion may be approximately the same as the length of the heat source. The distance between the first end and the second end of the heat source storage portion may be such that the heat source contacts the first end of the heat source storage portion and the layer of frangible material.

This can advantageously help keep the heat source in place within the heat source storage portion. This also helps to hold the layer of frangible material firmly when the annular cutting edge penetrates or cuts through the layer of frangible material, which advantageously helps reduce the thickness of the frangible material. Can facilitate cutting.

The diameter of the longitudinal body is greater than the diameter of the heat source received within the longitudinal body. The diameter of the longitudinal body may be larger than the diameter of the upstream portion of the aerosol generating device used in conjunction with the pack. This advantageously allows the upstream portion of the aerosol generator to be received within the heat source storage portion when the pack is being used in conjunction with the aerosol generator.

The closed first end of the heat source storage portion may include a shallow recess for receiving a portion of the heat source. This may hold the heat source away from the longitudinal body of the heat source storage portion so that the elongated body of the aerosol generating device can enter the longitudinal body of the heat source storage portion.

The diameter of the shallow recess may be the same as or slightly larger than the diameter of the heat source so that when a portion of the heat source is received in the shallow recess it may be securely held by the shallow recess. This may advantageously ensure that the heat source is held centrally in the heat source storage portion, allowing the elongated body of the aerosol generating device to enter the heat source storage portion unhindered by the heat source.

The longitudinal body and the closed first end of the heat source storage portion may be formed from any material. The longitudinal body and the closed first end of the heat source storage portion are preferably integrally formed. The longitudinal body and the closed first end of the heat source storage portion may be formed from a polymeric material. The polymeric material may include at least one of polyethylene, polypropylene, or polylactic acid. When the longitudinal body and the closed first end of the heat source storage portion are formed from a polymeric material, they may be formed using injection molding or thermoforming.

The pack may comprise multiple reservoirs each containing a single heat source. A plurality of reservoirs may be arranged in a two-dimensional array.

The pack may further comprise an aerosol-forming substrate storage portion. The aerosol-forming substrate storage portion can include a longitudinal body, a first end and an opposing second end. A first end of the aerosol-forming substrate reservoir may be closed by a layer of frangible material. A second end of the aerosol-forming substrate reservoir may be closed by a removable closure. The aerosol-forming substrate may be disposed within the aerosol-forming substrate storage portion.

Providing a further storage portion for storing the aerosol-forming substrate can advantageously simplify the insertion of the aerosol-forming substrate into the upstream recess of the elongated body of the aerosol-generating article. In use, the removable closure is removed to expose the aerosol-forming substrate within the aerosol-forming substrate storage portion. The upstream end of the elongated body is inserted into the aerosol-forming substrate storage portion and the aerosol-forming substrate is inserted into the upstream recess. An annular cutting edge is then passed through the layer of frangible material and a heat source is inserted into the upstream recess as described above.

Providing a further storage portion for storing the aerosol-forming substrate can advantageously prevent loss of volatile components of the aerosol-forming substrate. This can extend the shelf life of the aerosol-forming substrate.

A portion of the layer of frangible material can form a barrier between the heat source and the aerosol-forming substrate. A layer of frangible material can form a barrier between the heat source and the aerosol-forming substrate.

As used herein in connection with the present invention, the term "aerosol-forming substrate" is used to describe a substrate capable of releasing volatile compounds capable of forming an aerosol upon heating. be done. The aerosol generated from the aerosol-forming substrate of an aerosol-generating device according to the invention may or may not be visible and may be vapor (e.g., the gaseous state of matter that is normally liquid or solid at room temperature). particles of matter in the air) as well as droplets of gases and condensed vapors.

The aerosol-forming substrate may be a solid aerosol-forming substrate. Alternatively, the aerosol-forming substrate may comprise both solid and liquid components. Aerosol-forming substrates may comprise tobacco-containing materials containing volatile tobacco flavor compounds that are released from the substrate upon heating. Alternatively, the aerosol-forming substrate may comprise non-tobacco materials. The aerosol-forming substrate may further comprise one or more aerosol formers. Examples of suitable aerosol formers include, but are not limited to glycerin and propylene glycol.

The aerosol-forming substrate may be a rod comprising tobacco-containing material.

When the aerosol-forming substrate is a solid aerosol-forming substrate, the solid aerosol-forming substrate may be among herbal leaves, tobacco leaves, tobacco stem fragments, reconstituted tobacco, homogenized tobacco, extruded tobacco and puffed tobacco. for example one or more of powders, granules, pellets, pieces, spaghetti strands, strips or sheets. Solid aerosol-forming substrates may be in loose form or may be provided in a suitable container or cartridge. For example, a solid aerosol-forming substrate aerosol-forming material may be contained within a paper or other wrapper and have the form of a plug. When the aerosol-forming substrate is in the form of a plug, the entire plug, including any wrappers, is considered the aerosol-forming substrate.

The solid aerosol-forming substrate may contain additional tobacco or non-tobacco volatile flavor compounds that are released upon heating of the solid aerosol-forming substrate. The solid aerosol-forming substrate may also contain capsules containing, for example, additional tobacco or non-tobacco volatile flavor compounds, such capsules may melt during heating of the solid aerosol-forming substrate.

Solid aerosol-forming substrates may be provided on or embedded within a thermally stable carrier. The carrier may take the form of a powder, granules, pellets, pieces, spaghetti strands, strips or sheets. Solid aerosol-forming substrates may be deposited on the surface of the carrier, for example, in the form of sheets, foams, gels, or slurries. A solid aerosol-forming substrate may be deposited over the entire surface of the carrier, or alternatively in a pattern to provide non-uniform flavor delivery during use.

Aerosol-forming substrates may be in the form of plugs or segments containing materials capable of releasing volatile compounds in response to heating surrounded by paper or other wrappers. When the aerosol-forming substrate is in the form of such plugs or segments, the entire plug or segment, including any wrappers, is considered an aerosol-forming substrate.

The heat source and aerosol-forming substrate may be connected by a wrapper to form a single consumable element. This may advantageously make insertion of the heat source and aerosol-forming substrate into the upstream recess more convenient.

The removable closure may be any type of closure. For example, the removable closure may include a lid removably secured to the second end of the aerosol-forming substrate reservoir. The lid may be removably secured to the second end of the aerosol-forming substrate by at least one of a threaded connection, adhesive, snap compensation, or interference fit. The removable closure preferably includes an adhesive label adhered to the second end of the aerosol-forming substrate reservoir. Adhesive labels may include pull tabs. The pull tab can advantageously facilitate removal of the adhesive label from the second end of the aerosol-forming substrate reservoir.

The longitudinal body of the aerosol-forming substrate storage portion may be formed from a polymeric material. The polymeric material may include at least one of polyethylene, polypropylene, or polylactic acid. If the longitudinal body of the aerosol-forming substrate storage portion is formed from polymeric material, it may be formed using injection molding or thermoforming.

The pack may further comprise at least one elastic element extending from the longitudinal body of the aerosol-forming substrate storage portion into the aerosol-forming substrate storage portion.

The at least one elastic element advantageously ensures that the aerosol-forming substrate is held centrally in the heat source storage portion so that the elongated body of the aerosol-generating device can store the aerosol-forming substrate without being hindered by the aerosol-forming substrate. can allow entry into parts.

The at least one elastic element may be configured to deform when the elongated body of the aerosol-generating device is inserted into the aerosol-forming substrate storage portion.

The at least one elastic member may be integrally formed with the longitudinal body of the aerosol-forming substrate storage portion. At least one elastic member may be formed from an elastic material. For example, at least one elastic member may be formed from a polymeric material. The polymeric material may include at least one of polyethylene, polypropylene, or polylactic acid. If the at least one elastic member is formed from polymeric material, it may be formed using injection molding or thermoforming.

The at least one elastic member may include multiple elastic members. For example, the at least one elastic member may include two elastic members. Two elastic members may extend from opposite sides of the longitudinal body of the aerosol-forming substrate storage portion. This may advantageously further ensure that the aerosol-forming substrate is held centrally in the heat source storage portion.

The pack may include alignment means for facilitating alignment of the upstream end of the elongated body of the aerosol-generating device with the heat source beneath the layer of frangible material. The alignment means may be alignment markings.

The pack may comprise an alignment layer overlying the layer of frangible material at the second end of the heat source storage portion. The alignment layer may include apertures having at least one elastic member extending inwardly from edges of the apertures.

Providing an alignment layer can advantageously help a user align the upstream end of the elongated body of the aerosol generating device with the heat source beneath the layer of frangible material. Otherwise, it can be difficult to align, especially if the layer of frangible material includes opaque material. In use, the upstream end of the elongated body of the aerosol generating device is pushed through the opening in the alignment layer. If the upstream end of the elongated body of the aerosol generating device is misaligned, the at least one elastic member may deform. The at least one resilient member pushes the upstream end of the elongated body of the aerosol generating device away from the edge of the aperture toward the center of the aperture such that the upstream end is aligned with the heat source beneath the layer of frangible material. works.

The alignment layer may include a plurality of elastic members extending from the edges of the aperture. This advantageously ensures that the upstream end of the elongated body of the aerosol generator is correctly aligned with the heat source regardless of how the upstream end of the elongated body of the aerosol generator is misaligned. obtain.

Alignment layers may comprise any material. For example, the alignment layer may comprise at least one of polymeric material, metal, paper, and cardboard.

The pack may further comprise a spacer layer between the second end of the heat source storage portion and the alignment layer. The spacer layer may contain at least one aperture. At least one opening in the spacer layer may be aligned with at least one opening in the alignment layer.

A spacer layer may act to separate the second end of the heat source storage portion and the alignment layer. This is advantageous because the alignment layer compensates for misalignment between the upstream end of the elongated body of the aerosol generating device and the heat source when the upstream end of the elongated body of the aerosol generating device is pushed through the alignment layer. can offer great opportunities.

A spacer layer may comprise any material. For example, the spacer layer may comprise cardboard, such as corrugated cardboard. This can be advantageous as cardboard is relatively lightweight.

According to a further aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a kit of parts comprising the aerosol-generating article of the present invention and the pack of the present disclosure.

Of course, any particular combination of the various features described and defined in any aspect of the invention can be implemented, supplied or used independently.

The invention will be further described, by way of example only, with reference to the following accompanying drawings.

1 is a longitudinal section through an aerosol generator according to the invention, with the ejection element in a first position; FIG. Figure 2 is a longitudinal section through the aerosol generator according to the invention, with the ejection element in the second position; Figure 3 is a longitudinal section through an aerosol generator according to the invention with the ejection element in the first position and the extinguishing sleeve in the extinguishing position; Figure 4 is a longitudinal section through a pack according to the invention. Figure 5 is a perspective view of a pack according to the invention; Figure 6 is a perspective view of a pack according to the invention;

In the figures, the same reference numbers are used to refer to the same elements.

Figure 1 shows an aerosol generating device 100 comprising an elongated body 101 extending between an upstream end and a downstream end. Elongated body 101 includes upstream recess 104 for receiving aerosol-forming substrate 106 and heat source 105 . Aerosol-generating device 100 further comprises an annular cutting edge 107 located at the upstream end of upstream recess 104 . The aerosol-generating device 100 further comprises an ejection element 108 disposed within the elongated body 101, the ejection element 108 being movable between a first position and a second position, the ejection element 108 having a second It extends further into the upstream recess 104 at the second location than at the first location.

Elongated body 101 includes upstream portion 102 and downstream portion 103 . An upstream portion 102 of elongated body 101 includes an upstream recess 104 and is formed from stainless steel. Downstream portion 103 of elongated body 101 is formed from PEEK. An upstream portion 102 of elongated body 101 is connected to a downstream portion 103 of elongated body 101 by a snap connection.

The upstream recess 104 is cylindrical and is defined at its upstream end by an annular cutting edge 107 and at its downstream end by the upstream end of a discharge element 108 .

Annular cutting edge 107 is integrally formed with the upstream portion of elongated body 102 and includes a sharp annular blade configured to cut layers of fragile material, such as aluminum foil.

Ejection element 108 is formed from ferromagnetic steel and includes hollow lumen 109 such that upstream cavity 104 is in fluid communication with the downstream end of aerosol generating device 100 . The aerosol generating device 100 further comprises biasing means for biasing the ejection element 108 from the first position to the second position. The biasing means is a compression spring 110 arranged around the ejection element 108 . The upstream end of compression spring 110 acts against a flange on ejection element 108 . The downstream end of compression spring 110 acts against an internal stop of elongated body 101 .

Aerosol generating device 100 further comprises a retainer that retains ejection element 108 in the first position. The retainer includes an annular permanent magnet 111 within elongated body 101 configured to contact and retain ejection element 108 when ejection element 108 is in the first position.

Aerosol generating device 100 further comprises extinguishing sleeve 112 . Extinguishing sleeve 112 has an upstream end and a downstream end. The extinguishing sleeve 112 is longitudinally moveable relative to the elongated body 101 between a loading position and an extinguishing position. In the loaded position, the annular cutting edge 107 of elongated body 101 extends beyond the upstream end of extinguishing sleeve 112 . In the extinguishing position, the cutting edge 107 of the elongated body 101 is positioned downstream downstream of the upstream end of the extinguishing sleeve 112 . Extinguishing sleeve 112 is shorter than elongated body 101, allowing the most downstream end of elongated body 101 to be exposed when extinguishing sleeve 112 is in both the loading and extinguishing positions. Extinguishing sleeve 112 is formed from PEEK.

Fire-extinguishing sleeve 112 may be further movable from the fire-extinguishing position to an ejecting position in which cutting edge 107 of elongated body 101 is located further downstream of the upstream end of fire-extinguishing sleeve 112 than in the fire-extinguishing position.

Movement of extinguishing sleeve 112 from the extinguishing position to the ejecting position moves ejecting element 108 from the first position to the second position. Fire extinguishing sleeve 112 includes an internal element (not shown) that engages a portion of ejection element 108 when ejecting sleeve 112 moves from the extinguishing position to the ejecting position. This releases the extinguishing element 108 from the magnet 111 and is then biased from the first position to the second position by the compression spring 110 .

Aerosol-generating device 100 comprises a plurality of air inlets that allow air to pass through elongated body 101 and into the upstream recess. The plurality of air inlets includes a plurality of upstream air inlets 113 provided through elongated body 101 adjacent a portion of upstream recess 104 configured to receive heat source 105 . A plurality of air inlets includes a plurality of downstream air inlets 114 provided through elongated body 101 adjacent a portion of upstream recess 104 configured to receive aerosol-forming substrate 106 . The total air inlet area of the plurality of upstream air inlets 113 is greater than the total air inlet area of the plurality of downstream air inlets 114 .

Extinguishing sleeve 112 includes a plurality of air inlets 115 . The plurality of sleeve air inlets 115 are configured to align with the plurality of downstream air inlets 114 of the elongated body 101 when the extinguishing sleeve 112 is in the loaded position.

The aerosol generating device 100 is positioned within the thermally conductive recess 104 and attached to the extinguishing sleeve 112 such that movement of the extinguishing sleeve 112 between the loading position and the extinguishing position causes corresponding movement of the thermal conductor 116 . It further comprises a connected thermal conductor 116 .

A thermal conductor 116 is formed from aluminum and extends to the downstream end of the extinguishing sleeve 112 .

The aerosol generating device 100 further comprises retaining means for retaining the heat source 105 within the upstream recess 104 . The retaining means includes a resilient element 117 attached to the inner surface of the elongated body 101 within the upstream recess 104 and extending therefrom.

The downstream end of elongated body 101 includes downstream recess 118 for receiving mouthpiece 119 . Mouthpiece 119 is a disposable filter. Downstream recess 118 is in fluid communication with upstream recess 104 through hollow lumen 109 .

The downstream recess 118 includes two O-rings 120 that reduce the diameter of the downstream recess 118 at two points.

Figures 4, 5 and 6 show a pack according to the invention for use with an aerosol generating device 100 according to the invention. The packs 200, 300 comprise a heat source storage portion 201 having a longitudinal body 202, a closed first end 203 and an opposing second end. The second opposite end is closed with a layer 204 of aluminum foil. Heat source 105 is positioned within heat source storage portion 201 .

Heat source 105 is a combustible carbonaceous heat source.

The distance between the first closed end 203 and the second end of the heat source storage portion is the length of the heat source 105 so that the heat source contacts the first closed end 203 and the layer of aluminum foil 204 . is almost the same as The diameter of longitudinal body 202 is greater than the diameter of heat source 105 . A closed first end 203 of heat source storage portion 201 includes a shallow recess 205 for receiving a portion of heat source 105 .

Longitudinal body 202 and closed first end 203 are integrally formed from a polymeric material using injection molding.

As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, packs 200, 300 may comprise multiple heat source storage portions 201 in an array.

Figures 4 and 5 show a first type of pack 200 further comprising an aerosol-forming substrate storage portion 206 comprising a longitudinal body 207, a first end and an opposing second end. A first end of the aerosol-forming substrate storage portion 206 is closed by a layer 204 of aluminum foil. A second end of the aerosol-forming substrate storage portion 206 is closed by a removable closure 208 . Aerosol-forming substrate 106 is disposed within aerosol-forming substrate storage portion 206 . Longitudinal body 207 of aerosol-forming substrate storage portion 206 is formed from a polymeric material using injection molding.

The first type of pack 200 further comprises a plurality of elastic elements 209 extending from the longitudinal body 207 of the aerosol-forming substrate storage portion 206 into the aerosol-forming substrate storage portion 206 . A plurality of elastic elements 209 are integrally formed with elongated body 207 from a polymeric material using injection molding.

As shown in FIG. 5, pack 200 may comprise a plurality of aerosol-forming substrate storage portions 206 in an array with a corresponding number of heat source storage portions 201 .

The aerosol-forming substrate 106 may comprise a tobacco-containing material containing volatile tobacco flavor compounds that are released from the substrate upon heating.

FIG. 6 shows a second type of pack 300 further comprising an alignment layer 301 overlying the layer of aluminum foil 204 at the second end 203 of the heat source storage portion 201 . Alignment layer 301 includes apertures 302 having a plurality of elastic members 303 extending inwardly from the edges of apertures 302 . Alignment layer 301 is formed from cardboard. As shown in FIG. 8, alignment layer 301 may include a plurality of openings 302 in an array with a corresponding number of heat source storage portions 201 .

The second type of pack 300 further comprises a spacer layer 304 between the second end of heat source storage portion 201 and alignment layer 301 . The spacer layer is formed from cardboard and includes apertures 310 . The opening 310 is aligned with the alignment layer opening 302 and the heat source storage portion 201 . As shown in FIG. 8, spacer layer 304 may include a plurality of openings 310 in an array with a corresponding number of heat source storage portions 201 and openings 302 in alignment layer 301 .

In use, the aerosol-generating device 100 is initially in the configuration shown in FIG. 2 with the ejection element 108 in the second position and the extinguishing sleeve 112 in the loaded position. Filter 119 is inserted into downstream recess 118 and retained by O-ring 120 .

When the aerosol-generating device 100 is used with the first type of pack 200 , the removable closure 208 is removed and the upstream end of the aerosol-generating device 100 is inserted into the aerosol-forming substrate storage portion 206 . When the upstream end of elongated body 101 hits elastic element 109 , elastic element 109 is pushed aside and aerosol-forming substrate 106 passes into upstream cavity 104 of aerosol-generating device 100 . When elongated body 101 reaches the end of the first end of aerosol-forming substrate storage portion 206 , annular cutting edge 107 cuts aluminum foil layer 204 into heat source storage portion 201 . As the annular cutting edge 107 cuts through the aluminum foil layer 204 , it also cuts a portion of the aluminum foil that enters the upstream recess 104 . As elongated body 101 continues into heat source storage portion 201 , heat source 105 enters upstream recess 104 and is retained by retaining means 117 . Aerosol generator 100 is then removed from pack 200 .

When the aerosol-generating device 100 is used with the second type of pack 300 , the aerosol-forming substrate is first inserted into the upstream recess 104 . Aerosol generating device 100 is then inserted through opening 302 in the alignment layer. If the aerosol-generating article 100 is not aligned with the heat source 105 , the elastic member 303 is brought into alignment such that the upstream end of the elongated body 101 is aligned with the heat source 105 by the time it reaches the second end of the heat source storage portion 201 . acts to push the aerosol-generating article 100 back. Annular cutting edge 107 then cuts aluminum foil layer 204 as described above and heat source 105 passes into upstream recess 104 .

As the aerosol-forming substrate 106 and combustible heat source 105 pass into the upstream recess 104, they push the ejection element 108 from the second position to the first position. Once in the first position, magnet 111 acts to retain the ejection element in the first position. This configuration is shown in FIG.

Heat source 105 is the combustible heat source described above and is ignited using a yellow flame lighter. The heat source 105 extends further upstream than the upstream end of the elongated body 101 and the elongated body is provided with a plurality of upstream air inlets 113 so that sufficient air can reach the heat source 105 . Heat from heat source 105 is conducted to the aerosol-forming substrate by a portion of the aluminum foil between heat source 105 and the aerosol-forming substrate. Heat is also conducted by thermal conductor 116 to aerosol-forming substrate 106 that emits an aerosol. The aerosol is entrained in the airflow passing into the upstream recess 104 through aligned downstream elongated body air inlets 114 and extinguishing sleeve air inlets 115 . The aerosol is then drawn through hollow lumen 109 of ejection element 108 , through filter 119 and out of aerosol generating device 100 .

When the experience ends, the extinguishing sleeve 112 slides from the loading position to the extinguishing position. This limits the amount of air that can access heat source 105 . Furthermore, the heat conductor 116 moves over the entire length of the heat source 105 and reduces the temperature of the heat source 105 . Both of these effects extinguish the heat source 105 . This position is shown in FIG.

The extinguishing sleeve 112 then moves further upstream from the extinguishing position to the ejection position. This releases ejection element 108 from magnet 111 . Compression spring 110 then biases ejection element 108 from the first position to the second position. Evacuation element 108 forces extinguished heat source 105 and spent aerosol-forming substrate 106 out of upstream recess 104 . The extinguishing sleeve 112 is then moved from the eject position back to the load position, resulting in the aerosol generating device as shown in FIG.

Claims (20)

An aerosol generator,
an elongated body extending between an upstream end and a downstream end, said elongated body having an upstream recess for receiving an aerosol-forming substrate and a heat source;
an annular cutting edge capable of penetrating or cutting through layers of frangible material of the pack, said annular cutting edge being located at the upstream end of said upstream recess;
An ejection element disposed within the elongated body, the ejection element being movable between a first position and a second position, wherein the ejection element an ejection element extending further into said upstream recess at a second position. 2. The aerosol generating device of claim 1, wherein the ejection element includes a hollow lumen through which the upstream recess is in fluid communication with the downstream end of the elongate body. 3. An aerosol generating device according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising biasing means for biasing the ejection element from the first position to the second position. 4. The aerosol generating device of Claim 3, wherein said biasing means comprises a compression spring. 5. An aerosol generating device according to claim 3 or 4, further comprising a retainer for retaining said ejection element in said first position. 6. The aerosol generating device of Claim 5, wherein the retainer includes a magnetic connection. a loading position having an upstream end and a downstream end, wherein the cutting edge of the elongated body extends beyond the upstream end of the extinguishing position; and the cutting edge of the elongated body is positioned downstream of the upstream end of the extinguishing sleeve. 7. An aerosol generating device according to any preceding claim, further comprising a fire extinguishing sleeve longitudinally moveable relative to said elongated body between a fire extinguishing position and a fire extinguishing position. the extinguishing sleeve is further movable from the extinguishing position to an ejection position in which the cutting edge of the elongated body is disposed further downstream of the upstream end of the extinguishing sleeve than in the extinguishing position; 8. The aerosol generating device of claim 7, wherein movement of the extinguishing sleeve from the extinguishing position to the ejecting position moves the ejection element from the first position to the second position. 9. The aerosol generating device of claim 7 or 8, wherein the aerosol generating device further comprises at least one air inlet through the elongated body and into the upstream recess. 10. The method of claim 9, wherein the at least one air inlet comprises at least one upstream air inlet for supplying air to the heat source and at least one downstream air inlet for supplying air to the aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol generator described. The fire-extinguishing sleeve includes at least one sleeve air inlet which, in the loaded position, allows air to pass through the at least one sleeve air inlet and then into the elongated body. so as to align with the at least one downstream air inlet of the elongated body when the extinguishing sleeve is in the loaded position so as to be passable through the at least one downstream air inlet to an aerosol-forming substrate. 11. The aerosol generating device of claim 10, comprising: further comprising a heat conductor disposed within said upstream recess and connected to said fire fighting sleeve such that movement of said fire fighting sleeve between said loading position and said fire fighting position causes corresponding movement of a heat conductor; The aerosol generator according to any one of claims 7 to 11, comprising: 13. An aerosol generating device according to any of the preceding claims, comprising at least one retaining means arranged within said recess, adapted to retain a heat source. An aerosol generating device according to any preceding claim, wherein the downstream end of the elongated body includes a downstream recess for receiving a mouthpiece. 15. The aerosol generating device of Claim 14, wherein the recess includes at least one portion having a reduced diameter. A pack for use with an aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 15, said pack comprising:
A heat source storage portion having a longitudinal body, a closed first end and an opposing second end, the second end of the heat source storage portion being closed with a layer of frangible material. , a heat source storage part, and
a heat source disposed within the heat source storage portion. An aerosol-forming substrate reservoir having a longitudinal body, a first end and an opposing second end, wherein the first end of the aerosol-forming substrate reservoir is closed by the layer of frangible material. an aerosol-forming substrate reservoir, wherein a second end of said aerosol-forming substrate reservoir is closed by a removable closure;
17. The pack of claim 16, further comprising an aerosol-forming substrate disposed within said aerosol-forming substrate storage portion. 18. The pack of claim 17, wherein the pack further comprises at least one elastic element extending from the longitudinal body of the aerosol-forming substrate storage portion into the aerosol-forming substrate storage portion. 19. A pack according to claim 17 or 18, wherein a portion of the layer of frangible material forms a barrier between the heat source and the aerosol-forming substrate. further comprising an alignment layer overlying said layer of frangible material at said second end of said heat source storage portion, said alignment layer comprising an opening and at least one elastic member extending inwardly from edges of said opening. 20. The pack according to any one of Items 16-19.

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